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Background: Olfactory and gustatory disorders are common problems encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic with a significant impact on the patient's quality of life: The aim of this study was to assess the olfactory and gustatory functions in COVID-19 patients with correlation between them and clinical and laboratory markers. This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 63 subjects recruited from the COVID-19 clinics at Police Authority and Menoufia University hospitals. The patients were assessed using history taking, anterior rhinoscopy, endoscopic examination, computed tomography, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Olfactory functions were assessed using the alcohol threshold test. Gustatory functions were assessed using the three-drop method. The olfactory and gustatory functions were correlated with age, gender, and laboratory parameters. Also, the recovery of smell and taste disorders was correlated with our assessed laboratory markers. Results: The prevalence of olfactory dysfunction among study participants was 41 patients (65%) of the participants including 12 patients (19.1%) having mild hyposmia, 10 patients (15.8%) having moderate hyposmia, 9 patients (14.3%) having severe hyposmia, and 10 patients (15.8%) having complete anosmia. The prevalence of gustatory dysfunction among study participants was 24 patients (38.1%). Age, gender, and laboratory parameters did not show any statistically significant difference between those who experienced olfactory dysfunction or gustatory dysfunction and those who did not. However, there was a significant positive correlation between the total leucocytic count, serum level of CRP, and serum level of D-dimer and the degree of olfactory dysfunction (0.049, 0.03, and 0.02, respectively). There was a nonsignificant correlation between recovery of olfactory and gustatory dysfunction and laboratory markers. Conclusion: Olfactory and gustatory dysfunction are established clinical presentations among COVID-19-positive patients. The laboratory markers had no correlation with the incidence of these dysfunctions or their recovery. However, TLC, serum CRP, and serum D-dimer had a significant positive correlation with the severity of olfactory dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determining appropriate methods to release fish into confined water bodies such as lakes necessitates an awareness of the potential impact on local fish and the ecosystem in general, as well as a cost-benefit analysis. The purpose of this study was to apply various release strategies boosting the survival rate (%) of grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) fingerlings in the lower part of Wadi El-Rayan Lake (WRL) located in Al-Fayoum Governorate, Egypt. This study involved two experiments. The first experiment involved nursing and rearing grey mullet fingerlings in net enclosures (NE-CWT) and an earthen pond for 40 days before releasing them into the WRL. In the second experiment, three groups were studied before being released into the WRL: the first group underwent a nursing experiment (nursing for 40 days for acclimatization), the second group underwent grow out rearing for 334 days, and the third group (control group, continued) was released directly into the WRL, without extended rearing, acclimatization, or CWT recovery. During the first experiment, the growth performance, feed utilization, and survival rates of M. cephalus fingerlings were recorded. Throughout the second experiment, the fishermen collected monthly samples from the WRL to monitor the growth and survival rates of M. cephalus. The data revealed that fish temporarily held in NE-CWT had significantly higher (P< 0.05) final body weight, total weight gain, specific growth rate, and survival rate. Growth trends were similar for the fish temporarily held in EP-CWT. These findings emphasized the significance of short-term rearing and acclimation prior to release for improving the performance parameters of mullet seed compared to direct release into the lake. The study results can be used to increase the effectiveness of future grey mullet (M. cephalus) stockings in the Egyptian lakes. Transferring the results to fishermen's associations in Egypt will provide these groups more time to evaluate and improve the stock enhancement technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf-gall thrips, Gynaikothrips ficorum is an invasive pest that causes significant damage to some crops in Egypt. Understanding the geographical distribution of this pest and its interaction with host plants is crucial for effective management strategies. During the current study, ecological niche modeling was used to predict the future distribution of G. ficorum in Egypt based on environmental variables. We also investigated the interaction between G. ficorum and its host plant by analyzing the infestation rate and damage severity on different fig cultivars by using MaxEnt technique. G. ficorum has a high potential for spread throughout most of Egypt, with the ultimate suitability in the Nile Delta region. Additionally, we found one species of fig plant cultivars namely, Ficus microcarpa L. f. was more susceptible to infestation and damage by G. ficorum, highlighting the importance of selecting resistant cultivars for sustainable pest management. The results revealed that the number of galls per plant was positively correlated with plant cover across the studied areas. These findings provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution and host plant interactions of G. ficorum in Egypt, which can inform targeted control measures and improve fig production in different localities in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Middle Eastern and Arab countries have been experiencing significant advancements in scientific research and development over the past few decades. Understanding the trends, patterns, and impact of research within this region can provide valuable insights into its scientific landscape, identify areas of strength, and uncover potential areas for improvement. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research productivity in the Middle Eastern and Arab region over a 20-year period. The findings revealed a consistent increase in research productivity, yet mapped significant disparities between countries in scholarly output, excellence, and impact. Adjusting for population size and GDP, Iran displayed the highest publication activity, trailed by Egypt and Turkey. Delving into the distribution of research output across different journal quartiles, the results revealed that this region has a lower percentage of scholarly output published in high-impact journals (both the top 10% and the top 25% categories). Compared to North America and the European Union, the Middle Eastern and Arab region consistently exhibited lower performance in terms of top 10% citations, average citations per publication, and field-weighted citation impact. The field of physical sciences took the lead as the most prevalent subject area in the Middle Eastern and Arab region, comprising about 60.5% of the research emphasis. Conversely, social sciences garnered comparatively less research attention, making up approximately 8.9% of the focus. The region showed strong international collaboration levels (40.5%), yet relatively low national (24.4%) and academic–corporate collaborations (1.5%). The outcomes of this study can facilitate international comparisons and benchmarking, allowing Middle Eastern and Arab countries to position themselves within the global scientific community. There remains a need to prioritize quality over quantity by emphasizing rigorous research practices and collaboration. An ongoing evaluation of research performance using a combination of indicators can help track progress and adjust strategies as needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most devastating complications of critical illness in children. Serum creatinine (Scr) is considered the gold standard for AKI diagnosis yet noted to be late and inaccurate. This raises the need for an early and accurate biochemical parameter for the early detection of AKI. This research aimed to explore the role of urinary tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP-2) in the early prediction of AKI, compared to standard biomarkers, in critically ill children admitted to pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Urine TIMP2 was previously explored in multiple adult studies and showed promising results; however, the study of its role in pediatric population was limited. Methods: This study was a prospective cohort study including 42 critically ill children who are at increased risk of AKI. Cases were recruited from the PICU in the Children’s Hospital of Ain-Shams University, Cairo – Egypt over 10 months’ duration. Urine samples were collected to measure urinary TIMP-2 and blood samples were taken to measure the levels of Scr, creatinine clearance, and blood urea nitrogen. Urine output in 24 h was also calculated. Results: Urinary TIMP-2 showed considerably higher levels in AKI compared to non-AKI patients as early as day 1, whereas increased levels of Scr and decreased urine output were noticed later (day 3 and day 5, respectively). A notable correlation existed between TIMP-2 at day 1 and creatinine at day 3. Conclusion: The present study revealed that urinary TIMP-2 could have an important role in the early prediction of AKI before the increase in Scr and more deterioration in kidney functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The University of Nebraska has bred some of the most winter hardy wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars in the United States. With the advent of a new race of stem rust in Africa, the breeding program identified a testing site in northern Egypt, a Mediterranean environment, for seedling disease resistance screening. Quite surprisingly, the Nebraska winter wheat lines flowered when grown in northern Egypt, indicating the lines were vernalized. To confirm this result, a panel of 112 Nebraska winter wheat genotypes and three commercially grown Egyptian spring wheat check cultivars were grown in three replicates in a randomized incomplete block design at two locations for 3 years (2016/2017–2018/2019) in Egypt. Seven traits were measured on all genotypes (the number of days to flowering; total chlorophyll content; plant height; leaf, stem, and stripe rust reaction; and grain yield). The winter wheat genotypes flowered and several of them were not significantly different in grain yield from the spring cultivars. A multi‐trait stability index identified 22 genotypes (20% selection intensity, the local checks, and 19 lines from the United States) for good performance. This study provides novel evidence that winter wheat can flower in northern Egypt, can be used for adult plant resistance screening, and provide a grain yield comparable to the commercially grown spring wheat cultivars. Our findings are expected to facilitate future efforts to hybridize winter‐by‐spring lines to develop new genotypes with unique combinations of genes to improve grain yield production, adaptation, disease resistance, and climate resiliency. Core Ideas: All winter lines flowered, with several lines having grain yield similar or higher than the spring cultivars.The winter wheat lines flowered, thus adult plant resistance to disease can be measured in Egypt.This study provides evidence that winter wheat grown in Egypt can provide yield comparable to spring wheat.Our findings are expected to facilitate future efforts to hybridize winter‐by‐spring lines to develop new genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aimed to assess the pattern of HLA types in Egyptian renal transplant patients in the Sohag governorate. Materials and methods A retrospective chart review was conducted on all patients and their donors, who were scheduled to undergo renal transplantation at Sohag University Hospital through the period from January 2010 to December 2019. We retrieved the following data from eligible patients' files: age of the recipient and donor, gender of the recipient and donor, consanguinity, blood group, cross-matching, HLA classes A and B, and DR alleles. Results Overall, a total of 26 recipients (70.3%) and 25 donors (67.6%) had HLA-A alleles, while 22 recipients (59.5%) and 26 donors (70.3%) had HLA-B alleles. In terms of the pattern of HLA-A distribution among recipients, the most frequent alleles were AFNx0101/02 (8.1%), AFNx0102/23 (5.4%), AFNx0102/32 (5.4%), and AFNx0102 (5.4%). On the other hand, the most frequent HLA-A alleles in the donors' group were AFNx0101/02 (5.4%), AFNx0102/03 (5.4%), and AFNx0126/68 (5.4%). Regarding HLA-B allele distribution, all recipients had different alleles. While BFNx0141/52 was the most frequent allele in the donors' group. All recipients, except two patients, had HLA-DR alleles, most commonly DRFNx0111/13 (13.5%) and DRFNx0113/15 (8.1%). Negative cross-matching was present in 59.5% of the cases. Among female recipients, only AFNx0113/15 and BFNx0127/51/53 alleles were detected. Conclusion In conclusion, our findings were very similar to the results from other local and global studies. Different populations and ethnicities are the main dependent variables of the major differences in terms of HLA allele distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to provide information on growth and mortality rates for the management of the common smooth-hound shark, Mustelus mustelus in the Egyptian Mediterranean waters at Alexandria. The study was based on a total of 311 specimens of M. mustellus which were monthly collected from the commercial catch at Alexandria coast of the Mediterranean Sea, during the period from June 2020 to May 2021. Results showed that the total length of male M. mustellus ranged from 38.6 to 106.8 cm for males and from 38.6 to 117.5 cm for females. The total weight varied from 155.9 to 3611.7 g for males and from 157.3 to 2828 g for females. The b value (2.88, 2.74, and 2.8 for male, female and whole population, respectively) is slightly lower than the ideal, indicating a tendency towards slightly negative allometric growth. Results showed that the present levels of exploitation represented 0.407, 0.417 and 0.42 for males, females, and the whole population, respectively which were higher than that of E0.5= as 0.30, 0.295, and 0.297 for males, females, and the whole population, respectively. It gives the maximum (Y/R), which means that the stock of M. mustellus is highly overexploited, which is needed to maintain 50% of the stock biomass. For management purposes, the exploitation rate of M. mustellus should be reduced to be < E0.5 i.e., the fishing mortality should be reduced to lower than the current fishing mortality (F=0.39, 0.42 and 0.45 y-1 for male, female, and the whole population respectively) to maintain sufficient spawning biomass for sustainability. Finally, this study concluded that the length of the first capture of M. mustellus was calculated at 33.8 cm, while M. mustellus doesn't reach maturity unless reaches 83 cm at least. These indicated that M. mustellus in Egyptian Mediterranean waters was captured way before it reached its maturity stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to compare the diversity of head skeletal structure and shape between some coral reef fishes with different feeding habits, by using the technology of radiography (x-ray). This study was conducted to clarify the osteological structure, size, and shape of skulls in three coral reef fishes (Acanthurus sohal, Novaculichthys taeniourus and Fistularia commersonii). These three coral reef fishes were collected from Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt in 2021. Skulls were separated, prepped, and radiographed with X-rays. The pictures were reviewed by 15 radiology specialists and registrars who used DR varex workstations to assess whether the bones were visible or not. Results showed that the morphology and anatomy of skulls in coral reef fishes have undergone variation in size, shape, and degree of skeletal mobility according to specialization for various modes of feeding. The skull of herbivorous fish, A. sohal is a triangle in shape. The width of the skull is larger than its length. It has a small mouth with short, stout jaws provided with very tiny smooth lobed incisor teeth. The skull of carnivorous fish, N. taeniourus is composed of multiple movable blocks of bones. The mouth is slightly larger with robust jaw bones; the jaw has 2 pairs of stout, canine teeth positioned anteriorly on the upper and lower jaws and there's no canine in the hindmost region of the jaws. The head in planktivorous fish, F. commersonii consists of a long, tubular snout that constitutes almost one-third of the total body length. The snout ends in a small mouth; the lower jaw is slightly larger than the upper jaw with the absence of jaw teeth. The present study concluded that examination of the skull in some coral reef fishes with different feeding habits resulted in a significant diversification to evolutionary modifications of skull anatomy in fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Blastocystis is a common enteric human parasite of non-conclusive pathogenicity which may be determined by subtype (ST) variation. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is considered one of the primary causes of cancer mortality. Blastocystis ST7 has been shown to reduce beneficial intestinal microbiota and may exacerbate CRC. This study assessed the possible association between Blastocystis STs and CRC in comparison to non-cancer patients. Material and Methods: A total of 200 fecal samples were obtained from CRC (100) and non-CRC (100) individuals attending Beni-Suef University Hospital, Egypt. Blastocystis was searched for in all samples using microscopy and culturing. Positive subculture samples were genetically sequenced and subtyped using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Blastocystis STs were determined by sequencing and a phylogenetic tree was created. Related patient characteristics and tumor stages were analyzed for association with presence of Blastocystis. Results: Blastocystis was identified in 52% and 42% of CRC and non-cancer individuals, respectively. ST1, 2, and 3 were isolated from both cancer and non-cancer individuals; however, for the first time, ST7 was only isolated from CRC stool samples with significant association. Associated patient characteristics were evaluated as predictors. Conclusion: Blastocystosis is highly prevalent in CRC patients, predominantly in the latest CRC grades and stages. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the identification of Blastocystis ST7 in CRC patients. To determine whether certain STs of Blastocystis are associated with CRC would require further research, including the role played by gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to provide information on the food and feeding of common smoothhound shark, Mustelus mustelus in Egyptian Mediterranean waters at Alexandria, Egypt. A total of 306 specimens of M. mustellus were monthly collected from the commercial catch at Alexandria coast of Mediterranean Sea, during June 2020 - May 2021. Results revealed that the annual average of feeding activity of the whole population of M. mustelus constitutes 65.40% of the total examined stomachs. According to season, the highest recorded feeding activity was noted during summer (73.86%) and spring (71.01%), and the lowest value (55.56%) occurred during winter. According to life stages, the annual average value of heavy, good, and medium stomachs constitutes 64.77%, 71.57% and 60.92% of the total examined stomachs in juveniles, sub-adult and adult fish, respectively. Results showed that M. mustelus is essentially a predator shark, consumed a wide range of aquatic food. The major recorded animal foods are crustaceans and fish. The other minor items included Mollusca and Nemertia. In the whole population of M. mustelus, crustaceans were the most preferred food items (52.58%) followed by fishes (33.53%); they displayed seasonal fluctuation in fish's diet. The diet of the fish showed considerable variations in different-sized groups and during consecutive seasons within the same-sized group. This study concluded that Mustelus mustelus in the Egyptian Mediterranean waters at Alexandria is considered a moderately feeder active fish, with considerable differentiation in their diet during different life stages, and seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aimed to study some biological and population parameters of Sparus aurata in Abu Qir Bay, Alexandria to understand the status of its stock and give essential information to assess proper management for this species in the bay. A total of 1029 random specimens of gilt-head sea bream, S. aurata were monthly collected from commercial catch in the landing site at Abu Qir Bay during the period from January 2020 to January 2021. For each fish sample, total length (cm) and total weight (g) were measured, and scales were used for age determination. The total scales‟ radius and the radius of each annulus were calculated to the nearest 0.01 cm. The back-calculation method was used to estimate growth in length and weight at the end of each year. Results of the length-weight relationship showed that the growth of S. aurata in Abu Qir Bay fishery is nearly isometric (b: 3.01). The longevity of S. aurata was more than 5 years. The maximum increment of the linear growth occurred by the end of the first year of life (15.61 cm), but the maximum value of increment in weight (69.95 g) was recorded at age group IV+. Age groups I+ and II+ were the most abundant amounting 55.6% of its total catch. The length at first capture (Lc)was 18.96 cm. Total, natural and fishing mortality rates for S. aurata were 1.16 yr-1, 0.56 yr-1 and 0.60 year-1, respectively. Growth parameters were calculated as L∞ = 35.49 cm, K = 0.25 yr-1 and t0 = -1.27 yr. Exploitation rate (E = 0.52) indicates that the stock of sea bream was slightly higher than that optimally exploited stock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Egyptian females. Most patients present at a late stage with subsequent poor outcomes. Aim: To study the awareness of breast cancer, its risk factors and screening. To investigate the impact of caring for a family member with breast cancer on the awareness and future attitudes of caregivers. Methods: The study included 704 females divided into two groups. A non-caregivers group including 248 participants representing the general population and a caregivers group including 456 family caregivers of breast cancer patients. We used a questionnaire comprised of 45 questions assessing four domains: individual risk factors, awareness of risk factors, awareness of screening, and the practice of and barriers to screening. Those who answered more than 50% of the questions correctly were considered to have good knowledge. Results: Sixty-nine percent of participants showed poor knowledge of risk factors. In the screening awareness domain, only 44% of participants scored >50% indicating defective knowledge. Caregivers attained significantly higher scores in all domains (p<0.001). Yet, the overall assessment showed poor knowledge in both groups. Only 3% of non-caregivers and 19% of caregivers performed mammography (p<0.001); while 11% and 38%, respectively, underwent breast self-examination (p<0.001). Higher education level was associated with significantly better knowledge (p<0.001). Conclusions: Breast cancer knowledge among Egyptian females is deficient. The level of education and caring for a breast cancer patient significantly affect the level of knowledge and attitude towards screening. There is a need to implement a comprehensive national awareness and screening programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to study the effect of irrigation water quality in different fish farms in Egypt on the quality of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, produced from these fish farms. Four fish farms (El-Abbasa, Edko, Mariout and Bahr El-Baqar) which irrigated with different water sources were selected to study the effect of some heavy metals (iron, copper, zinc and lead) on fish quality produced from these farms during the period of fish culturing from April 2018 to November 2018. Results indicated that most of the highest averages of all heavy metal concentrations in water, sediment and fish muscular tissues were recorded from Bahr El-Baqar fish farm and their lowest values from El-Abbasa fish farm. The highest contamination factors for most heavy metals were recorded in Bahr El-Baqar fish farm and the lowest in El-Abbasa fish farm. The present study concluded that El-Abbassa fish farm has low pollution and the other fish farms (Edko, Mariout, and Bahr El-Baqar) have progressive deterioration of the site quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Lumpy skin disease (LSD), an infectious disease of cattle, is characterized by raised nodules on the skin. Although the morbidity rate of LSD is low, it has a considerable fatality rate. Despite the annual mass vaccination of livestock with sheep pox vaccine (Veterinary Serum and Vaccine Research Institute, Egypt) enforced by Egyptian authorities, the LSD virus (LSDV) continues to circulate almost every summer. The present study aimed to discover the cause of cows naturally infected with LSDV circulating in Upper Egypt during the summer of 2018 using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay and to analyze their phylogenetics against reference genome sequences. Materials and Methods: We cultured LSDV in specific pathogen-free embryonated chicken eggs (SPF-ECE) and used conventional PCR to identify fusion and P32 genes, previously deposited in GenBank (MN694826, MN694827, and MN954664). Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses were performed on these two highly conserved viral genes. Results: LSDV infection of SPF-ECE resulted in characteristic white pock lesions. PCR products were identified on 1.5% agarose gel after electrophoresis at the expected positions for the fusion and P32 genes at 472 and 587 bp, respectively. Conclusion: The present study revealed that the two viral genes were identified from the Beni Suef and Sohag Governorates in all clinical cases and confirmed the circulation of LSDV in this outbreak. After sequencing, these genes were identical to those of the LSDV that had been identified and recorded in GenBank for the past 3 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) has identified the wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) irrigated area in the developing countries, which includes Egypt as Mega‐environment 1 (ME1). Agriculture intensification is expected to take place in this region to keep up with a continuously growing population, which might lead to more N application and losses because of the low N use efficiency (NUE) observed in this area. A panel of 40 wheat accessions including 10 commercially grown cultivars (CGCs), 10 elite lines from the CIMMYT, and 20 landraces from Egypt and Ethiopia were evaluated for grain yield (GY), grain protein content (GPC), NUE, agronomic NUE (AGNUE), stem rust, leaf rust, plant height (PH), leaf area, and total chlorophyll content (TCC), under four N levels. The panel was planted in two growing seasons (i.e., 2015–2016 and 2016–2017) and two locations. The results indicated that most of the CGCs were considered N efficient and N responsive. On the other hand, most landraces were N inefficient and nonresponsive because they produced higher GPC, PH, and TCC but had lower GY, AGNUE, and NUE. Furthermore, the landraces were less sensitive to the excessive N supply. 'Sakha 94', a commercially grown cultivar, was the most N efficient and N responsive; hence, it produced the highest GY at all N levels. The overall results might be scaled up to cover other Mediterranean basin regions that have similar environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The annual catch of bogue, Boops boops, in Egypt decreased from about 4000 MT to be 2000 MT in last 10 years. The present study provided information on the fisheries biology of B. boops, from Egyptian Mediterranean waters for management purpose. Monthly random samples of total 1367 specimens were collected from three landing sites front Alexandra during 2018. Results showed that, the total length of B. boops varied from 9.3 to 23 cm, while the total weight ranged between 7.4 and 133.1 g. The length-weight relationship revealed that "b" value (2.96) is indicating a tendency towards isometric growth with statistically highly significant coefficient. The longevity of B. boops was estimated to be 4 years and age groups I+ and II+ were the most abundant in the catch constituting more than 85%. The length at first capture and first maturity was 12.5 and 13.2 cm respectively. The mortalities rates were 0.671, 1.589 and 2.26 y-1 for natural, fishing and total mortalities, respectively. The bogue stocks in the Mediterranean waters front Alexandria was exposed to over exploitation (E= 0.70). For fisheries management, some measures were proposed for stock maintenance, fisheries development and catch sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the correlation between fungi causing paint deterioration and air contamination in Assiut University hospital to give a complete picture for the fungal quantity and spectrum. Seventeen fungal species were isolated from 15 samples of deteriorated water-based paint collected from the hospitals. Chaetomium globosum was the most common paint-deteriorating fungal species, followed by Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus parasiticus, Penicillium oxalicum and Setosphaeria rostrata. Direct examination confirmed the ability of these fungi to colonize the paint samples producing mycelia, conidia and fruiting bodies. In vitro, these fungi exhibited high potential to utilize the thin layer of polyacrylic paint and significant enzymatic activities of cellulase, lipase and urease that may play a main role in paint degradation and as virulence factor of human diseases. Moreover, 27 fungal species were isolated as air contaminating mycobiota. Aspergillus spp., Cladosporium cladosporioides, P. oxalicum, A. alternata and C. globosum caused a considerable amount of indoor air contamination. The results indicated that there is a clear correlation between fungi causing paint deterioration and air contamination, whereas certain fungi were responsible for wall paint deterioration and frequently indoor air contamination. The current study suggests that improvement of antimicrobial additives of paints may be a promising approach to reduce paint biodeterioration and subsequently air contamination of indoor environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The existing literature is contradictory regarding effects of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) on sexual functions. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of type I and II FGM/C on sexual function of Egyptian women. Methods: We recruited 197 cut women and 197 control women from those visiting Assiut University hospitals for different reasons. We asked each woman to fill the Arabic female sexual function index (FSFI) (a self reported 19-item questionnaire assessing the main domains of female sexual function). Genital Examination was done to confirm the type of FGM. Results: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) was found in 83.8% of FGM/C cases in contrast to 64.5% of the control. The total FSFI score in the FGM/C group (19.82 ± 7.1) was significantly lower than in the control group (23.34 ± 8.1). Concerning the types of FGM/C, type 73.6% of cases had type I and 26.4% had type II. Type I FGM/C was performed mainly by physicians (62.1%) while type II was performed mainly by midwives (44.4%). FSD was found in 83.4% of FGM/C I cases and in 84.6% of FGM/C II cases. There was no statistically significant difference between the two types of FGM/C as regards total and individual domain scores except for the pain domain. There were significantly lower total and individual domain scores in both FGM/C types except for the desire domain compared to control. Conclusion: In this study, FGM/C was associated with reduced scores of FSFI on all domains scores, and among both types I and II, both were associated with sexual dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study provided information on length-weight relationship and condition factors of Tilapia zilli at Lake Qarun, Egypt during the period from July, 2012 to April, 2013. Results showed that, the total length of T. zillii varies from 5 to 17 cm, while the total weight was ranged between 2.64 and 96.01 g. The weight of the fish increases with the increasing in length. The "b" value (2.95) is around the ideal (3), indicating a tendency towards isometric growth. The correlation coefficient "r" was 0.95, which is statistically highly significant. The exponent "b" in the case of males (2.97) is higher than that of females (2.89), indicating the better condition of males than females of this fish. Data revealed that, the composite coefficient "k" and the relative condition factor "kn" was varied significantly with the fish size. Small fish had the lowest values of condition factors. Both "k" and "kn" exhibited specific fluctuation in both sexes during the different months of the years. The longevity of Tilapia zilli was estimated to be 7 years. The abundance of age groups greatly fluctuated during the different months of the year; but fishes belonging to age groups 3+ and 4+ were the most abundant groups, constituting 55.65% of the total fishes. The annual increment in length was inversely proportion with the total fish length. While, the annual increment in weight was directly proportion with the total fish weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive biology of male pipefish, Trachyramphus bicoarctatus at Lake Qarun in El-Fayoum Governorate, Egypt was investigated to determine sex ratio, male length at first sexual maturity, maturity distribution of male, parental care and male fecundity. A total of 1214 pipe fish were collected from the lake from December 2013 to November 2014. From the total collected pipefish specimens, 511 individuals (42.09%) were males and 703 individuals (57.09%) were females. Male - female sex ratio was 1:1.37, which highly significant differed from the expected 1:1 ratio; either through the whole study period or during all months. Male pipefish reached sexual maturation for the first time at length of 7.9cm. Male maturation and brooding male were significantly increased with increasing of fish length and weight. Mature males and brooding males with eggs and embryos in the brood pouch were captured from December till April. The parental care in pipefish T. bicoarctatus is unusual. Male possesses a ventral brood pouch embedded in the skin in which the eggs are deposited. Fertilized eggs were attached in two or three longitudinal strips inside the brood pouch. These eggs may have different developmental stages in the same brooding pouch. A total of 7198 embryos were recorded in brooding males during this study. Male fecundity was strongly correlated to fish length and weakly correlated to fish weight; it ranged from 42 to 111 eggs or embryos in the brood pouch. The reproductive period of T. bicoarctatus was extended from December to April and the peak value occurred during February. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: In animal studies, vitamin A deficiency (VAD) during pregnancy has been shown to be associated with a decrease in nephron number and kidney weight of the offspring. At present, it is unclear whether these observations are pertinent to humans. Thus, this study was performed to assess the vitamin A status of a cohort of Egyptian pregnant women and their newborns and to determine the potential effect of maternal VAD during pregnancy on the neonatal kidney size. Methods: The maternal and cord blood samples were collected for the measurement of serum retinol concentration. Within the first 3 days after delivery, an abdominal ultrasound was performed in all newborns to determine the renal dimensions and volume. Results: Sixteen (20%) mothers had VAD. The newborns delivered to VAD mothers had significantly lower mean values of cord retinol concentrations and dimensions of both kidneys than the newborns delivered to mothers with vitamin A sufficiency. The maternal serum retinol concentrations were positively correlated with the cord retinol concentrations, the dimensions of both kidneys, and the combined renal volume of their respective newborns. Conclusion: Maternal VAD during pregnancy may decrease renal size in the infant at birth. The functional implications of this effect warrant further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Infants between 6 and 24 months of age are at the highest risk of development of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in developing countries. Consuming unmodified cow''s milk, delayed introduction of solid foods after 6 months, and high birth order could be predictors of the presence of IDA. Three hundred infants between the ages of 6 and 24 months (mean, 13.94 ± 6.17 months) from Ain Shams University Children''s Hospital were enrolled in the study. Data collected included demographic information and dietary assessment including the type of milk feeding, introduction of solid foods, and daily iron intake. The infants were examined, and anthropometric measurements were recorded. Anemic infants (hemoglobin level <11 g/dL) were further evaluated by complete blood count, hemoglobin electrophoresis, and iron profile. Anemia was diagnosed among 198 infants (66%), of whom 129 (43%) had IDA. Red cell distribution width at a cutoff value of 15.8% was 86% sensitive and 74% specific in predicting IDA. The main risk factors for IDA included being between 6 and 18 months of age, of the male sex, birth order above the second order, consuming cow''s milk, predominant breast-feeding beyond 6 months of age, and low daily iron intake. We conclude that IDA is the most common cause of anemia among Egyptian infants 6 to 24 months old of low socioeconomic standard. Independent clinical predictors were consuming cow''s milk during the first 6 months, delayed introduction of solid foods after 6 months, and birth order beyond the second order. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background/Aim: Polymorphisms in the promoter of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) lead to decreased MTP transcription, less export of triglyceride from hepatocytes, and greater intracellular triglyceride accumulation. Therefore, functional polymorphisms in MTP may be involved in determining susceptibility to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The aim of this study is to examine the effect of some genetic influences among a group of obese Egyptian children. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 76 overweight and obese children presenting to the Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Cairo University Children's Hospital, Egypt, as well as on 20 healthy controls. Anthropometric measurements were taken for all the patients and they underwent clinical examination, ultrasonographic examination of the liver, and liver biopsy when appropriate. Liver functions, blood glucose, serum insulin, C-peptide, and lipid profile were assessed and HOMA-IR calculated. Blood samples from biopsy-proven NASH patients and controls were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism for the -493 G/T polymorphism in the promoter of MTP and the 1183 T/C polymorphism in the mitochondrial targeting sequence of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD). Results: Eight had biopsy-proven simple steatosis and 7 had NASH. NASH patients had a much higher incidence of the MTP G/G genotype (P = 0.002, CI: 2.9-392) compared with the controls. NASH patients also had a 100% prevalence of the MnSOD T/T genotype. Conclusion: Certain genotypes in MTP and MnSOD are significantly more prevalent among obese children with NASH and may be responsible for such a phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To test the clinical effectiveness of new bioadhesive unidirectional buccal and vaginal bromocriptine methylate discs in hyperprolactinemic patients. Design: A preliminary randomized comparative study. Setting: A pharmaceutical phase at the departments of Pharmaceutics, Faculties of Pharmacy, Assiut and El-Minea universities and a clinical phase at the Infertility Out-patient Clinic of Women''s Health University Center, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt. Patient(s): A total of 42 patients with pathologic hyperprolactinemia. Intervention(s): Patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group A comprised 21 patients who used unidirectional buccoadhesive bromocriptine methylate discs once daily for 1 month. Group B included 21 patients who used vaginoadhesive bromocriptine methylate discs once daily for 1 month. Serum prolactin (PRL) was measured before and after therapy in all cases. Main Outcome Measure(s): Decline of serum PRL level after 1 month of therapy. Result(s): Pharmaceutically, tests for swelling, surface pH, in vitro and in vivo bioadhesion and in vitro release expressed satisfactory results. The in vitro release of vaginal bromocriptine from the discs is increased in pH 4.5 media. Both groups showed a highly statistically significant reduction of serum PRL levels after 1 month of therapy without any significant difference between both groups. The decline of serum PRL was not correlated with age, parity, or indication of entering into this study. Conclusion(s): Both buccoadhesive and vaginoadhesive discs containing bromocriptine are of equal efficacy for treating pathologic hyperprolactinemia. Buccoadhesive discs have the advantages of being gender nonspecific (i.e., could be used by men), avoiding manipulating the vagina, which could be inconvenient to some patients, such as virgins; not being dependent on cyclic estrogen (E) levels; and could be easily used during menstruation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Eight drinking water treatment plants were sampled monthly during one year to evaluate the removal of bacterial indicators, new indicators and some pathogenic bacteria. Six plants are allocated along the Nile River at Cairo segment and the two others on Ismailia Canal. In this study many parameters were determined; the classical bacterial indicators (total bacterial counts at 22 and 37°C, total coliforms, faecal coliforms and faecal streptococci) show the same trend in all plant intakes except faecal streptococci parameter. The numbers of faecal streptococci in plant intakes on the main stream of Nile River ranged from 8 to 250 MPN/100 ml, but the others ranged from 80 to 2700 MPN/100 ml. With regard to new indicators; total yeasts, Candida albicans, Aeromonas hydrophlia and total staphylococci ranged from 10[sup 1] to 10[sup 5], 10[sup 2] to 10[sup 5], 10[sup 2] to 10[sup 5] and 10[sup 2] to 10[sup 3] cfu/100 ml, respectively. In case of pathogens, salmonellae ranged between 10[sup 2] and 10[sup 3] cfu/100 ml, total vibrios varied between 10[sup 2] and 10[sup 4] and the Listeria group ranged from 10[sup 2] to 10[sup 5] cfu/100 ml from the intake samples. All tested samples from the outlet of water treatment plants, which produce drinking water, were free of classical bacterial indicators. So the produced water has a good quality from the bacteriological point, according to national and international regulations. On the other hand, the drinking water from some tested plants had one or more positive parameters of new indicators and pathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 300 human fecal samples were collected from febrile neutropenic patients suffering from severe gastroenteritis, followed by identification and serological characterization of recovered isolates. Fifty nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) serovars were recovered. A total of serologically identified 50 NTS serovars recovered from poultry of the same geographical area and during the same period as well as one standard strain S. Poona were supplied by the Bacterial Bank of Animal Health Research Institute of Egypt. Antibiogram analysis revealed that the human and poultry serovars exhibited similar antimicrobial resistance patterns against 28 different antimicrobial agents, particularly against ampicillin, cefotaxime, oxytetracycline, and erythromycin. Plasmids harboring blaCTX-m, blaSHV, blaTEM, and aac(6')-Ib were detected in 11 (22%) and 8 (16%) of human and poultry serovars, respectively. Molecular detection of the most clinically relevant virulence genes and analysis of the associated virulence genotypes proved that the human (n = 11) and poultry serovars (n = 12) shared 11 genotypes. Enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus PCR analysis revealed that human and poultry serovars were clustered together in 3 out of the 4 clusters with a similarity index ranged from 0.15 to 1. Since poultry are usually consumed by humans, the presence of resistant bacteria harboring transmissible genetic elements is of great health concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae have become a serious public health hazard worldwide. This importance is derived from the increase of new variants, particularly blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX-M genes. This study aimed to examine ESBL-producing Escherichia coli isolated from different governorates in Egypt from dairy cows infected with subclinical and clinical mastitis. Materials and Methods: This study examined 207 milk samples for the resistance of isolates against 14 different antibiotics and ran serological identification of ESBL-producing E. coli isolates with complete antibiotic resistance. Genotypic and sequencing analyses of several resistance genes were conducted using a polymerase chain reaction. Results: E. coli was identified in cases with subclinical mastitis (80.5%) and clinical mastitis (85.7%). ESBL-producing E. coli was isolated from 38.2% of subclinical mastitic milk compared to 39.3% in clinical cases, where O26:k60, O125:k70, and O25:k11 were the serotypes with complete resistance to antibiotics. ESBL-producing E. coli isolates were resistant to cefotaxime, amoxicillin, cloxacillin, oxacillin, rifampicin, and penicillin in 100% but susceptible to amoxicillin and clavulanic acid in 82.5% of the cases. Results also revealed that 51.25%, 52.5%, 66.25%, 77.5% and 60% of ESBL-producing E. coli isolates were responsive to ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, norfloxacin, levofloxacin, and gentamycin, respectively. The detected genes were registered in GenBank as MW345819.1 and MW345820.1 for the E. coli blaTEM gene and MW295407 for the E. coli blaSHV gene. Conclusion: This study found ESBL-producing E. coli in mastitic milk samples from Egyptian dairy farms and confirmed the occurrence and circulation of the main antibiotic genes (blaTEM and blaSHV) in the samples. Regular and thorough surveillance of ESBL-producing E. coli and subsequent preventive actions are essential for preventing the spread of these resistance genes in the future, which could pose serious and catastrophic health risks. Authorities should cling to the concept of One Health to minimize the risk of new varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the effects of pre-conception thromboprophylaxis among patients with recurrent spontaneous abortion and antiphospholipid syndrome.Methods: A randomized placebo-controlled trial enrolled patients with a history of recurrent spontaneous abortions and antiphospholipid syndrome who attended an Egyptian center between January 2011 and June 2013. Using a computer-generated sequence, patients were randomly allocated to receive 41 mg enoxaparin subcutaneously plus 81 mg aspirin daily pre-conception, or to receive placebo pre-conception. All patients received enoxaparin and aspirin following identification of fetal heart pulsation. The primary outcomes were live-birth rate and clinical-pregnancy rate at 0-6 months, and at 6-12 months. Intention-to-treat analyses were performed. Clinicians, investigators, and data analysts were masked to the treatment assignments.Results: The study enrolled 180 patients(90 in each group). No significant difference was observed between the intervention and control groups in the live-birth rate (67[74%] vs 59[66%]; P=0.25). At 0-6 months, the clinical-pregnancy rate was higher in the intervention group (50[56%]vs 30[33%], P=0.02). No significant difference between the intervention and control groups was observed in the clinical-pregnancy rate at 6-12 months (32[36%] vs 35[39%], P=0.52).Conclusion: Among patients with recurrent spontaneous abortion and antiphospholipid syndrome, pre-conception enoxaparin increased the clinical-pregnancy rate at 0-6 months, but did not affect the clinical-pregnancy rate at 6-12 months or the live-birth rate. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01661439. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamins are important food constituents that can be present in almost every foodstuff. Food quality and safety depends on food surveillance by reliable quantitative analysis enabled by appropriate quality control. Certified matrix reference materials are versatile tools to support quality assurance and control. However, in the case of vitamins, which are important in various foods, there is a lack of matrix reference materials. Two certified reference materials for the determination of all-trans-retinol, retinyl palmitate, and α- and γ-tocopherol in milk powder and infant formula have been developed by the National Institute of Standards, Egypt. This article presents the preparation, characterization, homogeneity, and stability testing as well as statistical treatment of data and certified value assignment. The assignment of the certified values and associated uncertainties in the prepared natural-matrix reference materials were based on the widely used approach of combining data from independent and reliable analytical methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The soft tick Ornithodoros savignyi is distributed throughout Africa, including Egypt. It primarily attacks camels, cattle, donkeys, and cows; and rarely affects humans. This study evaluated the acaricidal efficacy of ethanolic Curcuma longa extract (Turmeric) on the second nymphs of O. savignyi and then investigated the safety of this herb in rabbits. Materials and Methods: The nymphs were immersed in 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, and 0.625 mg/ml ethanolic C. longa extract. An additional group was immersed in ethanol as a control. On the 1st, 7th, and 15th-day post-treatment, the mortality percentages, LC50, and LC95 were calculated. The ticks exposed to 10 mg/ml ethanol C. longa extract were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Three male New Zealand White rabbits were orally administered 2 ml (two doses) of 10 mg/ml ethanolic C. longa extract, and another three rabbits were orally given two doses of 2 ml of absolute ethanol as a negative control. Histopathological examination of the kidney and liver hematology and the kidney and liver function was performed. Chemical analysis of the extract was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Results: The LC50 and LC95 were 1.31 and 15.07, 1.07 and 8.56, and 0.81 and 6.97 mg/ml on the 1st, 7th, and 15th day, respectively. SEM revealed that mamillae and spots on the surfaces of the treated ticks were not discriminating except for some clefts on the surfaces. The histological examination, blood profile, and biochemical analyses revealed no significant differences between the treated and untreated rabbits (p>0.05). GC/MS analysis revealed 50 compounds, and curcumene and t umerone were found to be the major constituents of this ethanolic extract. Conclusion: The ethanolic C. longa extract produced a strong acaricidal effect on the second nymph of O. savignyi, and it was safe to use in rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a viral disease that affects cattle and buffaloes in Egypt, causing considerable economic losses in the animal sector. This study aimed to investigate the recent outbreak of LSDV in cattle and buffaloes and evaluate the potential role of the hard tick Rhipicephalus annulatus in their transmission through isolation and molecular characterization by multiplex PCR (mPCR) and real-time quantitative PCR (rt-qPCR) assays. A total of 50 skin biopsies (cattle n = 30, buffaloes n = 20), 110 nasal swabs (cattle n = 76, buffaloes n = 44), and 129 blood samples (cattle n = 84, buffaloes n = 45) were collected. In addition, 145 hard ticks of different stages were collected from cattle and buffaloes of different breeds and ages in different governorates in Egypt from November 2021 to June 2022. Multiplex PCR and real-time quantitative PCR (rt-qPCR) assays based on SYBR Green and targets (P32, VP32, G protein, and viral fusion protein) were used. We identified positive results in 17 out of 30 cattle skin biopsies (56.6%), 1 out of 7 buffalo skin scabs (14.3%), and 5 out of 45 buffalo blood samples (11.11%) using mPCR and RT-qPCR methods. We successfully isolated LSDV from hard ticks and cattle infested with ticks and exhibited characteristic signs of LSD on the chorioallantois membrane (CAM) of specific pathogen-free embryonated chicken eggs (SPF-ECE). The isolates were confirmed by multiplex PCR and RT-qPCR. The cyclic threshold (Ct) with correlation-slandered curve values of rt-qPCR ranging from 10.2 to 36.5 showed the amount of LSDV-DNA in different samples. The study's findings demonstrated the widespread circulation of LSDV in both cattle and buffaloes in Egypt and provided strong evidence that hard ticks R. annulatus play a role in the transmission of LSDV in susceptible animals., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Ticks and tick-borne pathogens pose a great threat to human and animal health. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of ticks that infest camels and investigate the presence of tick-borne pathogens in the blood of camels, associated ticks, and surrounding rodents as reservoirs. From 100 inspected camels, from different localities in the Giza governorate, 1000 ixodid ticks were collected; these ticks belonged to three genera: Hyalomma, Amblyomma, and Rhipicephalus. The genus Hyalomma was represented by four species, Hyalomma dromedarii was the most prevalent species (55.4%), followed by Hyalomma excavatum (22%), Hyalomma impeltatum (11.6%) and Hyalomma rufipes (2.8%). The genus Amblyomma was represented by two species, Amblyomma gemma (2.8%) and Amblyomma marmoreum (2.7%), while the genus Rhipicephalus was represented by only one species, Rhipicephalus pulchellus (2.7%). Ticks, camel blood, and rodents (total number 100 brown rats) are screened for tick-borne pathogens (Borrelia burgdorferi, Borrelia miyamotoi, Babesia sp., and Coxiella burnetii) using PCR. Camel blood was found to be infected with Borrelia burgdorferi (66.6%), Borrelia miyamotoi (55%), and Babesia sp. (11.6%). Coxiella burnetii DNA was detected in all the collected ticks but was not detected in the blood of camels or rodents. Borrelia miyamotoi was detected in 12.5% of H. impeltatum, 55% of Camels, and 6% of the rodents, which may indicate a proposed risk of dispersal of B. miyamotoi, the agent of tick-borne relapsing fever., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

SARS-CoV-2 virus has rapidly spread worldwide since December 2019, causing COVID-19 disease. In-hospital mortality is a common indicator for evaluating treatment outcomes. Therefore, the developing and validating a simple score system from observational data could assist in modulating the management procedures. A retrospective cohort study included all data records of patients with positive PCR for SARS-CoV-2. The factors that associated with mortality were analyzed, then allocation of potential predictors of mortality was executed using different logistic regression modeling, subsequently scoring system was developed from the most weighted predictors. The mortality rate of patients with COVID-19 pneumonia was 28.5% and 28.74%, respectively. The most significant factors that affected in-hospital mortality were old age (> 60 years), delay in hospital admission (> 4 days), high neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio "NLR" (> 3); higher computed tomography severity score; and CT-SS (> 20), in addition to using remdesivir and tocilizumab in the treatment protocol (P < 0.001 for all). The validity of the newly performed score was significant; the AUC was 85%, P < 0.001, and its prognostic utility was good; the AUC was 75%, P < 0.001. The prognostic utility of newly developed score system (EGY.Score) was excellent and could be used to adjust the treatment strategy of highly at-risk patients with COVID-19 pneumonia., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Vector-borne bacterial diseases (VBBD) are a diverse group of tropical and subtropical zoonotic diseases. This study investigated the possibility of domestic animals to carry certain vector-borne bacterial microorganisms (VBBMs), as well as the presence of these targeted DNAs in their ectoparasites in different localities of Egypt using molecular analyses. For this study, 234 animal hosts (112 cattle, 38 sheep, 28 goats, 26 buffaloes, 22 donkeys, and 8 horses) in addition to 115 ectoparasites (95 ticks and 20 lice) were investigated for the molecular detection of Bartonella spp., Borrelia spp., and Rickettsia spp., targeting 16S-23S rRNAITS, 16S rRNA, and gltA genes, respectively. The results indicated that the overall prevalence of VBBD was observed in 17 animals (7.26%), of which 16 (6.84%) were positive for Bartonella spp. and one (0.43%) was positive for Borrelia theileri. All blood samples were negative for the DNA of Rickettsia spp. In addition, the results demonstrated that all ectoparasites were free from VBBDNA. Furthermore, of the animals examined for ectoparasite infestation, 28 (11.97%) and 5 (2.14%) represented Rhipicephalus annulatus ticks and Haematopinus tuberculatus lice, respectively, which infested animals. Analysis of epidemiological factors revealed that gender, age, and ectoparasitic infestation of animals had a significant effect on Bartonella infection, whereas no significant difference between animal species was observed. Hence, we report a potential novel Bartonella sp. from cattle and buffaloes, including a new genotype of Bo. theileri from cattle, in Egypt., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)

Objective: To provide a grading system that accurately reflects the grades of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) severity., Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Assiut University Hospital. It included 500 women who answered the Arabic version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) after getting their consent. A gradient of FSD severity was created, classifying FSD into five grades: severe, moderate, mild to moderate, mild, and no FSD., Results: According to our grading system, FSD was detected in 339 women (67.8 %); Mild FSD in 20.4%, mild to moderate in 41.6%, moderate in 15.3%, and severe in 22.7%. Mean scores of desire show a linear trend of reduction from 3.8 in mild to 3.36 in mild to moderate to 2.25 in moderate and markedly reduced to 2.1 in severe grade. This difference was highly statistically significant (p= 0.002). The same was reported in arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction domains, while in lubrication and pain domains, the difference was not statistically significant., Conclusion: In this study, our grading system was complementary to the FSFI. Moreover, it seems to be more practical and useful in grading the severity of FSD., (© 2021 Ismail SA et al.)

Background/purpose of the Study: Worldwide and national efforts are directed against eradication of HCV. The introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) has changed dramatically the outcome of HCV treatment. In spite of the Food and Drug Administration approval of the oral drugs sofosbuvir (SOF) and ledipasvir (LED) for the treatment of HCV in adolescents more than or equal to 12 years old, sufficient real-world experience is still lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of the generic SOF/LED fixed-dose combination 400/90 (400 mg SOF + 90 mg LED) for the treatment of adolescents and children (9-12 years) with chronic hepatitis C (CHC)., Methods: In this prospective observational study, 100 cases of genotype 4 CHC were recruited consecutively from those fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. All cases received the generic fixed-dose combination SOF/LED (400/90), one tablet daily for 12 weeks. All clinical, laboratory, and virologic characteristics were evaluated at base line, and week (W) 2, 4, 8, and 12 of therapy and W12 post-treatment (SVR12)., Results: Recruited children (9-12) and adolescents weighed 28-83 and 31-90 kg, respectively. Eighty cases were naïve and 20 cases were pegylated interferon/ribavirin treatment-experienced. Very rapid virologic response (vRVR) at W2 was 96%, while at W4 response rate was 100% and maintained till the end of treatment and at W12 post-treatment (SVR12). All reported side effects were mild and did not lead to treatment termination and disappeared at W12 post-treatment., Conclusion: The generic SOF/LED fixed-dose combination is safe and effective in children, 9-12 years, and adolescents with vRVR rate of 96%, 100% EOT response and SVR12.

Background:: Little is known about the place of death of patients with cancer in Eastern Mediterranean countries including Egypt, where palliative care is underdeveloped. Identifying the preferred place of death (PPoD) is important for the development of appropriate palliative care models in these countries., Objectives:: To know the PPoD of Egyptian patients with incurable cancer and their family caregivers (FCGs) and to determine the factors that may impact their preferences., Methods:: An observational cross-sectional study that included 301 dyads of patients with incurable cancer and one of their FCGs. A questionnaire was designed to collect data about the characteristics of patients and FCGs as well as their preferences., Results:: The majority of dyads (272/301, 90.4%) answered the PPoD question. Home was the PPoD in 93% of patients and 90.1% of FCGs ( P = .218). The congruence between patients' and FCGs' PPoD was 92.7% (κ = 0.526). In multivariate analysis, poorer performance status (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 3 or 4) and full employment of FCGs associated significantly with patients' preference to die in hospital (odds ratio [OR] = 3.015 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.004-9.054], P = .049 and OR = 4.402 [95% CI: 1.561-12.417], P = .005, respectively), while poorer performance status and nonreferral to the palliative medicine unit were associated with FCGs' preference of hospital death (OR = 2.705 [95% CI: 1.105-6.626], P = .029 and OR = 2.537 [95% CI: 1.082-5.948], P = .032, respectively)., Conclusions:: The results of the current study suggest that home is the PPoD for the vast majority of Egyptian patients with incurable cancer and their FCGs. Palliative care interventions that promote home death of patients with incurable cancer are needed in Egypt.

Most of the studies on the incidence, pattern, and predictive factors of lymph node (LN) metastasis with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) have been performed retrospectively and no common consensus has been reached regarding the predictors for the involvement of level I LNs. This study was conducted prospectively to determine the incidence and the possible predictors of level I involvement in N1b PTC patients. The study included 30 consecutive patients with N1b stage of PTC. All the patients underwent neck dissection (ND) including level I. The relation between involvement of level I LNs and various clinicopathological variables was studied. Unilateral neck dissection was performed in 24 patients and bilateral neck dissection in six patients leading to 36 NDs. Level I was excised in all patients, with five specimens (14%) positive for metastasis. Levels II, III, IV, V, VI, and VII were positive in 52.8, 58.3, 58.3, 33.3, 63, and 22.2%, respectively. Level I involvement was significantly related to the number of lymph node levels affected (p = 0.003) and macroscopic extranodal invasion (p = 0.04). It was not related to the involvement of other individual levels, gender, age, size of the largest thyroid nodule, size of the largest LN involved, or histo-pathological variant of the tumor. This study suggests that including level I in therapeutic neck dissection for N1b PTC patients might be recommended in selected cases of multiple level involvement and macroscopic extranodal invasion requiring sacrifice of internal jugular vein, spinal accessory nerve, or sternomastoid muscle.

The normal vaginal microbiota is a dynamic system that continually fluctuates under the environmental changes and different physiological conditions. Yeast infections of the vagina are caused by one of the species of fungus called Candida (C.). The study aimed to evaluate the types of mycobiota in women with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) who were performing vaginal douching (VD) or not. Furthermore, it studied the antifungal sensitivity toward different fungi isolated from the vagina. In a cross-sectional study conducted in Assiut University Hospital, Egypt, women with VVC were interviewed regarding relevant history including the habit of VD. Vaginal swabs were obtained and processed by direct microscope and by culture on CHROMagar Candida and other differential media. The types of Candida in women with the habit of VD were compared with those not having this habit. We found that VD habit was practiced by 67.4% of women with VVC, and Candida albicans was the commonest (78.3%) type observed. There was no significant difference in the percentage of non-albicans types between women performing VD (23.6%) and those not reporting this habit (18.9%). Harboring non-albicans types were significantly increased in regular performers of VD compared with those who had this procedure only after sexual intercourse or after the end of menstruation (36.8%,12.5%, and 16.7%, respectively) (P = .048). Thus, vaginal douching does not influence the type of Candida infection involved in VVC. Frequent performance of VD increases the likelihood of having non-albicans types and the resistance to the common antifungal agents., (© The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The International Society for Human and Animal Mycology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Objectives: The optimal strategy for the reconstruction of the pancreas following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is still debated. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of isolated Roux loop pancreaticojejunostomy (IRPJ) with those of pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) after PD., Methods: Consecutive patients submitted to PD were randomized to either method of reconstruction. The primary outcome measure was the rate of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). Secondary outcomes included operative time, day to resumption of oral feeding, postoperative morbidity and mortality, and exocrine and endocrine pancreatic functions., Results: Ninety patients treated by PD were included in the study. The median total operative time was significantly longer in the IRPJ group (320 min versus 300 min; P = 0.047). Postoperative pancreatic fistula developed in nine of 45 patients in the IRPJ group and 10 of 45 patients in the PG group (P = 0.796). Seven IRPJ patients and four PG patients had POPF of type B or C (P = 0.710). Time to resumption of oral feeding was shorter in the IRPJ group (P = 0.03). Steatorrhea at 1 year was reported in nine of 42 IRPJ patients and 18 of 41 PG patients (P = 0.029). Albumin levels at 1 year were 3.6 g/dl in the IRPJ group and 3.3 g/dl in the PG group (P = 0.001)., Conclusions: Isolated Roux loop PJ was not associated with a lower rate of POPF, but was associated with a decrease in the incidence of postoperative steatorrhea. The technique allowed for early oral feeding and the maintenance of oral feeding even if POPF developed., (© 2014 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association.)

Background/aims: HCC is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The main etiological factor in Egypt is HCV infection. Lack of cadaveric transplantation in Egypt makes LDLT the only available option for liver transplantation for HCC patients with advanced cirrhosis and/or non-resectable tumors., Methodology: Between January 2004 and April 2012, 170 patients underwent LDLT at the Liver Transplantation Unit, Mansoura University, and 52 (30.6%) were shown to have HCC by pathological examination. Patient demographics, preoperative interventions and pathological findings were evaluated for their influence on recurrence and survival. Patients were followed-up with abdominal sonography and AFP every 3 months and CT scans every 6 months. Median follow-up was 22.9 months., Results: The main cause of underlying cirrhosis was HCV (96.2%). One or more different pre-transplant treatments of HCC were performed in 14 (27.4%) patients. The median total size was 4cm (0.8-15.5). Microvascular invasion was detected in 16 (31.4%) patients; 16 patients proved to have tumors beyond the Milan criteria. Pre-transplantation AFP more than 200ng/mL, total tumor size more than 8cm and microvascular invasion influenced recurrence rate on univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis identified AFP (p = 0.016) as independent factor for recurrence. Survival was significantly affected by AFP (p = 0.003) and microvascular invasion (p = 0.003)., Conclusions: LDLT is a feasible option for patients with HCC on top of cirrhosis with good survival and recurrence-free survival rates.

Background/purpose: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the standard treatment for symptomatic benign gallbladder disease. The identification of factors that reliably predict the need to convert LC to open cholecystectomy (OC) would help with patient education and counseling., Methods: Between January 2000 and December 2009, 4,698 patients underwent cholecystectomy. LC was attempted in 4,434 patients (94.4%) and OC from the start was performed in 264 patients (5.6%). The causes for conversion were evaluated. The change in conversion rate between 2000 and 2004 and between 2005 and 2009 was analyzed. Factors predictive of conversion were identified by univariate and multivariate analysis., Results: Conversion to OC from an initial LC approach was required in 234 patients (5.3%). The main cause for conversion was dense adhesions (54.7%). Independent risk factors in multivariate analysis were male gender (p < 0.001), increased age (p < 0.001), a history of previous upper abdominal surgery (p < 0.001), a WBC count >9 × 10(3)/μl, and urgently indicated cholecystectomy (p <0.001). The conversion rate decreased significantly from 6.7 to 3.6% over the two time intervals (p < 0.001)., Conclusions: Those at highest risk for conversion are elderly male patients with prior abdominal surgery who present emergently with laboratory evidence of biliary inflammation., (Copyright © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Background: This study aims to evaluate living liver donor outcome after right hepatectomy in a single Egyptian center., Patients and Methods: Between April 2004 and July 2010, 100 living donors underwent right hepatectomy. Their medical records and postoperative follow-up visits were retrospectively revised. Perioperative complications were reported. Postoperative complications were classified according to the five tier version of Clavien system., Results: There were 71 males and 29 females. The mean age was 27.6 ± 7.4 years. The mean graft weight was 999 ± 167 g and the mean volume percent of the remaining liver was 36.8 ± 8%. The mean ICU and hospital stay were 2.6 ± 2.7 and 12.4 ± 9.1, respectively. A total of 57 complications developed in 38 donors (38%). The commonest complication type was biliary complications. There were 22 grade I, 6 grade II, 15 grade IIIa, 12 grade IIIb, 1 grade IVa, and 1 grade V complications. One donor died due to posttransfusion ARDS on the 30th postoperative day. On follow-up, no donor developed long lasting disability. A donor died in a road traffic accident 1 year after donation., Discussion and Conclusions: Donor right hepatectomy is not an entirely safe procedure. Biliary complications are the commonest early postoperative complications.

A total of 60 patients with schistosomiasis (40), fascialiosis (15) and heterophyiasis (5) were selected Beni-Sweif and Mansoura Districts and subjected to history taking, clinical examination, Kato thick smear, sedimentation and hatching test (for schistosomiasis cases) at the beginning of the study, 2 & 3 months after treatment with Oleo-resin of Myrrh (Mirazid) in a dose of 10 mg/kg/day for 6 consecutive days an hour before breakfast. The results showed a significant improvement in symptoms with minimal negligible or no side effects. The cure rates, 2 & 3 months after treatment were 80.7%% & 11.8%% for schistosomiasis, 93.3% & 6.6% for fascioliasis, and 100% for heterophyiasis. The clinical picture of schistosomiasis before treatments were easy fatigability, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, epigastria pain, abdominal distention, right upper guardant pain, colicky abdominal pain, left upper and/or lower guardant pain, abdominal rumbling, dysentery, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, constipation, and alternating bowel habit. Those of fascioliasis were abdominal distention, dripping of saliva, right upper guardant, colicky abdominal pain, weight loss, easy fatigability, intermittent jaundice, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, epigastria, left upper and/or lower quadrant pain, right layer quadrant pain, loin pain, abdominal rumbling, diarrhea, constipation, and alternating bowel habit. The safety and efficacy of C. molmol extract in treating heterophyiasis (100%), fascioliasis (100%) and schistosomiasis (92.5%) were documented.

Background Data: Hepatectomy is a technically challenging surgery, and of all aspects of hepatic resection, caudate lobe resection is the most difficult. Knowledge of the anatomy of the caudate lobe is necessary to achieve safe caudate lobe resection., Methodology: Hospital records of 54 patients, who had caudate lobe resection in our center from January 2000 to August 2007, were retrieved. The demographic data, clinicopathological features, and perioperative events were extracted and analyzed., Results: Out of a total of 500 patients who had various forms of hepatic resection during the period in question, only 54 had caudate lobe resection (10.8%). Isolated caudate lobe resection (ICLR) was performed in 16 (29.6%) patients while the remainder had caudate lobe resection as a part of a major hepatectomy. Indications for hepatectomy in patients with ICLR include hepatocellular carcinoma, primary hepatic carcinoid tumor, cavernous hemangioma, and adenoma. Mean operative time for ICLR was 230 +/- 50 min while it was 240 +/- 50 min for right hepatectomy and 245 +/- 55 min for left hepatectomy. The associated mean blood loss was 1200 +/- 200, 1300 +/- 350, and 1350 +/- 350 ml, respectively. None of these were statistically significant. In patients who had ICLR, there was no mortality while three patients developed postoperative complications (bile leak in two patients and one patient with wound infection). Various forms of perioperative complications were noticed in six patients. All these patients, who also showed 7.8% mortality, had major hepatectomy., Conclusions: Caudate lobe resection is a technically challenging procedure. Isolated caudate lobe resection is a safe procedure with good outcome in well selected patients. It is, however, associated with increased perioperative risks when associated with major hepatectomy.

This study was conducted between August 2007 and October 2008 to identify the sero-prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii among pregnant women of different ages and stages of gestation. Latex agglutination test was used as screening test. ELISA-IgG & IgM tests measured for the Toxo-Latex positive cases to identify toxoplasmosis clinical status. The results indicated that the prevalence of T. gondii among pregnant women was relatively high in the rural (57.6%) than urban (46.5%) areas. The positivity was correlated, in general, with age as it was higher in the older age groups. No specific clinical pictures were noticed in different patients with variable proportions, as well as a less marked correlation between Toxo-latex positive cases and having toxoplasmic congenital babies. But, neither correlation was detected between the history of congenital toxoplasmosis, or contact with cats and the Toxo-latex out-come results. An acute newly infected pregnant women during their first trimester of pregnancy that represents the rate of incidence of T. gondii in which ELISA-IgM positive and ELISA-IgG negative, was 23 cases (27.05%) and v.v. was 20 (23.54). The interpretation of IgM and IgG was given.

Over six months, 129 consecutive brucellosis cases were diagnosed in females attending the outpatients' clinics the females in Al-Azhar and Ain Shams Universities Hospitals. Their ages ranged between 12-65 years old. 113 (87.6%) gave history of raw milk consumption, 13 (10%) gave history of home slaughtering of sheep, 2 (1.5%) gave history of animal contact, and one patient gave history of abortion, that partner had brucellosis. A total of 61.2% of patients gave serum agglutination test of 1: 640, who suffered acute or subacute infection. Titers of 1:320 (38.8%) were found in the majority of chronic cases. Causes of endemic parasitosis were excluded. Symptoms were fever (79.5%), headache (72.4%), generalized arthralgia (65.3%), sweating (65.3%), chills (63.8%), backache (34.6%), abdominal pain (27.5%), loss of appetite (25.5%), lassitude (17.2%), myalgia (14.2%), monoarthralgia (7.9%). Spinal involvement was in 15% patients, who had chronic brucellosis. 32/35 were successfully treated with a combination of streptomycin and tetracycline, 17/21 with streptomycin and septrin, 38/43 with tetracycline and septrin, and 26/26 (100%) with rifampicin and tetracycline or septrin, which treated all resistant patients.

Unlabelled: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is considered as one of the common causes of particular hepatitis in developing countries. It is transmitted in a fecal-oral manner. It causes sporadic infections and large epidemics. To estimate the prevalence of anti-HEV IgG and IgM antibodies to ORF3 peptide of Hepatitis E virus genome in an age of children, study subjects (100 children) between 6 months and 10 years with minor, hepatic illnesses were recruited for the study during the period from September 2004 to September 2005. Serum anti-HEV IgG and anti-HEV IgM antibodies were screened in all subjects, anti-HEV IgM antibodies were assayed as an indicator of recent infection. Serum transaminases (AST and ALT) were estimated in positive subjects. Out of 100 subjects recruited, 26 subjects (26%) demonstrated anti-HEV IgG and 6 (6 %) were anti-HEV IgM and IgG positive. Anti-HEV IgG were present since the first year of age till 10 years of age and increased with advancing age. Serum transaminases were raised in one (17%) of subjects with anti-HEV IgM antibodies., Conclusions: Children are susceptible to HEV infection since early infancy. Seropositivity to HEV antibodies increased by over 2 times beyond 4 years of age as compared to younger age.