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This work was carried out in a Private Farm at Kofor Negm Village, Elibrahimia District (N, 31° 33′ 47.11″ E 6.23″ 43′ 30°), Sharkia Governorate, Egypt, during the two consecutive winter seasons of 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 to study the influence of different potassium fertilizer sources [potassium citrate (36.5%K2O), potassium thiosulphate (35% K2O) and potassium silicate (18% K2O) as foliar spray], different intercropping systems (sole crop of each components as control, 1: 1, 1: 2, 2: 1 and 2: 2 as row ratio of coriander: garlic) and their combination treatments on growth parameters, yield components and chemical constituents of garlic crop. The findings showed that, when coriander was intercropped with garlic at a ratio of 1: 2 as opposed to sole crop and the other intercropping systems under study, the highest benefits were obtained in terms of growth (plant height, number of leaves per plant, and total plant dry weight), yield components (bulb diameter, number of cloves per bulb, and average bulb weight), as well as N, P, K, and total carbohydrates percentage in garlic cloves. Compared to the other sources of potassium under study, potassium silicate application as a foliar spray four times/seasons produced a higher bulbs yield per feddan. The results indicated that, the development and production of the garlic crop can be maximized by using an intercropping system of 1 ridge of coriander: 2 ridges of garlic and potassium silicate application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most significant neglected tropical diseases that have a detrimental effect on economic and public health criteria is Schistosomiasis. Therefore, there is a permanent and urgent need to find alternative means of biological control. Ferula hermonis is a herbaceous plant with various pharmaceutical properties and is known for its endocrine-disrupting effects. The objective of the present study was to investigate the molluscicidal activity of F. hermonis roots methanol extract against Biomphalaria alexandrina snails. The experimental results showed that F. hermonis extract has a molluscicidal activity against adult B. alexandrina snails at LC50 (14.2 mg/l) and LC90 (18.1 mg/l). Exposure of snails to sublethal concentrations LC5 (8.3 mg/l) and LC10 (9.8 mg/l) of the extract considerably lowered snail fertility and egg-laying capacity. In addition, results detected an endocrine-disrupting influence where it caused fluctuations in the levels of the three steroid sex hormones (Testosterone, Estradiol (E2), and Estrogen) following acute and chronic exposure of adult B. alexandrina snails to the sublethal doses of the tested extract. Regarding biochemical alterations, glucose and total lipids levels increased significantly, while protein and albumin contents decreased following exposure to sublethal concentrations, compared to the control snails. The sublethal concentrations (LC5, LC10, and LC50) of F. hermonis roots methanol extract exerted noticeable DNA damage in B. alexandrina snails, whereas LC10 was the most genotoxic concentration with 18.20±0.09% tailed cells and 10.54±0.58 px tail length. F. hermonis roots methanol extract can be considered a promising biocontrol agent against B. alexandrina snails, the intermediate host of Schistosoma mansoni in Egypt, via interference with the reproduction processes, and subsequently reducing the population size of snails in endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenylketonuria (PKU) represents a common inborn error of metabolism. PKU management is complicated and bothersome; multiple challenges may represent strains on the Quality Of Life (QOL) of both children and their parents. We aimed to assess QOL among PKU children and to identify diversified factors affecting their parents' QOL. An exploratory cross-sectional study was conducted among a calculated random sample of 120 PKU children attending a primary health care center in Cairo. A structured interview questionnaire included the QOL assessment tool 'PedsQL questionnaire' while the impact of the dietary plan on the family's daily life was inquired upon utilizing the 'PKU-QOL questionnaire'. Our results revealed a positive history of similar cases (PKU) in the family reported by 35 cases (29.1%). QOL was very high in children under 5 years and tended to decrease afterward. Children aged five years or more had low scores in all QOL domains. Dietary management of PKU represented a financial burden on nearly two-thirds of families. Parents of PKU children face difficulties in the management of dietary protein restriction; this includes (feeling sad about dietary restriction, worrying that the child might secretly eat forbidden food, and calculating the allowed protein in their children's diet) and they also suffer from the daily expenses of PKU diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Numerous investigations have found that cognitive deficits in COVID-19 survivors may be reversible; hence, early detection is essential. These cognitive deficiencies should be targeted with scaled cognitive therapies that can be widely used even in patients' homes, supporting the best possible cognitive and functional outcomes. In the meanwhile, it has been observed that COVID-19 patients may experience worry, fear, depression, and other mental health problems. Therefore, subjective cognitive difficulties may be due to emotional discomfort. As a result, these data highlight the significance of early diagnosis of anxiety symptoms and depression symptoms in COVID-19 patients in order to prevent subsequent cognitive problems. All patients were selected in accordance with the case definition and used the following tools after 1, 3, and 6 months after being cleared of COVID-19 infection: developed questionnaire for both clinical and demographic data, the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory, and Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV disorders. Results: Fifty patients were participated in this study from both gender, different levels of education, and the major group was nonsmokers (82%). A total of 88% of participants had confirmed COVID-19, and 12% had contact with them. Wisconsin Card Sorting Test for preservative parameters revealed that the 2nd follow-up showed nonsignificant comparison to the 1st follow-up, while the 3rd showed highly significant comparison to the 1st follow-up. While for non-preservative errors, the 2nd follow-up showed significant comparison to the 1st, while the 3rd showed highly significant comparison to the 1st follow-up. Conceptual level response parameters showed that both the 2nd and the 3rd follow-ups showed nonsignificant comparison to the 1st follow-up. There was no significant correlation between Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAS) and any parameter of Wisconsin Card Sorting Test or any parameter of Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised. Conclusions: While there was negative impact of COVID-19 infection on cognitive functions in Egyptian recovered COVID-19 patients which improves gradually by time, there was nonsignificant correlations between anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test as well as Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised parameters in tested individuals through three consecutive follow-ups of COVID-19 in Egypt. Further testing using other scales or larger sample is mandatory to elucidate further potential impact of COVID-19 on cognitive functions of recovered patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is vital to limit the loss of mineral NPK fertilizers during crops fertilization, especially in adverse soil conditions that reduce its availability to plants uptake and increase environmental pollution impact. This study aimed to reduce the soil application of the traditional NPK (TNPK) fertilizers through partially adding foliar nano chitosan-NPK (NCS-NPK) with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to boost cotton (Gossypium Barbadense L.) productivity and fiber quality. During the growing seasons of 2021 and 2022, field experiments were performed at the Sakha Agricultural Research Station, Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt. A split-plot with four replicates based on a Randomized Complete Block design was used. Egyptian cotton cultivars Giza 97, 96 and promising hybrid G93xG71 were assigned to main plots, and seven foliar NCS-NPK and PGPR treatments were distributed in subplots. Results showed superiority of Giza 97 cultivar in boll weight (3.38 g), seed cotton yield fed-1 (11.13 ken), maturity ratio (0.94) and fiber elongation (7.85%), while Giza 96 cultivar in uniformity index (86.62%) and fiber strength (46.57g/tex) and promising hybrid G93xG71 in plant height (146.7cm), sympodial branches plant-1 (15.26), seed index(10.84 g), lint% (36.08%), upper half mean (UHM) (35.48 mm), fiber fineness (3.17), and fiber brightness (reflectance degree Rd %, (76.40%). Foliar combined NCS-NPK with PGPR under 50% T-NPK gave the highest values of the most studied treats. There is evidence that the combined application of NCS-NPK with PGPR can reduce the application of T-NPK fertilizers, which sequentially reduce environmental pollution and enhance cotton production and fiber quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted at a private farm in Taha El-Marg Village, Diarb Negm District, Al Sharqia Governorate, Egypt during the two consecutive winter seasons of 2020/ 2021 and 2021/2022. This experiment was done to study the effect of intercropping systems between caraway: garlic at different row ratio (sole crop of each as control, 1: 2, 2: 1 and 2: 2, respectively), different potassium rates (0, 25, 50 and 75 kg K2O/feddan) and their combination on growth and yield of caraway and garlic plants. Main plots consisted in the intercropping systems and the subplots were constituted by the potassium fertilization rates. Alternating two rows of caraway with two rows of garlic significantly increased plant height, number of branches per plant, plant fresh weight, number of umbels per plant and fruit yield per plant compared to sole caraway planting. Also, using 1: 2 intercropping system gave the highest values regard plant height, plant fresh weight and bulb fresh weight compared to sole garlic planting. Moreover, the highest potassium fertilization rate (75 kg K2O /feddan) gave the highest values in growth traits and yield components of caraway and garlic crops compared to control. Sole crop of caraway and garlic significantly recorded the highest values of fruits and bulbs yield per feddan compared to intercropping systems under study. In general, the combination between intercropping system and potassium affected growth and yield components of both crops and the best treatment in this regard was 2: 2 system for caraway and 1: 2 for garlic and 75 kg K2O/feddan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oasis lands in Egypt are commonly described as salty soils; therefore, waterlogging and higher soil salinity are major obstacles to sustainable agricultural development. This study aims to map and assess soil salinization at El-Farafra Oasis in the Egypt Western Desert based on salinity indices, Imaging Spectroscopy (IS), and statistical techniques. The regression model was developed to test the relationship between the electrical conductivity (ECe) of 70 surface soil samples and seven salinity indices (SI 1, SI 2, SI 5, SI 6, SI 7, SI 8, and SI 9) to produce soil salinity maps depending on Landsat-8 (OLI) images. The investigations of soil salinization and salinity indices were validated in a studied area based on 30 soil samples; the obtained results represented that all salinity indices have shown satisfactory correlations between ECe values for each soil sample site and salinity indices, except for the SI 5 index that present non-significant correlations with R2 value of 0.2688. The SI 8 index shows a higher negative significant correlation with ECe and an R2 value of 0.6356. There is a significant positive correlation at the (p < 0.01) level between SI 9 and ECe (r = 0.514), a non-significant correlation at the (p < 0.05) level between soil ECe and SI 1 index (r = 0.495), and the best-verified salinity index was for SI 7 that has a low estimated RMSE error of 8.58. Finally, the highest standard error (R2) was represented as ECe (dS m−1) with an R2 of 0.881, and the lowest one was SI 9 with an R2 of 0.428, according to Tukey's test analysis. Therefore, observing and investigating soil salinity are essential requirements for appropriate natural resource management plans in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty soil samples were collected from different locations in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. The activity was measured with a γ-ray spectrometer using a scintillation detector with a NaI(Tl) crystal, 3 × 3 inch. The average activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K in the soil are 22 ± 2, 12 ± 0.6, and 158 ± 8 Bq kg–1, respectively. In addition, the radiological hazards were calculated for the investigated samples. The average values of radiological hazards affecting the population were 60 Bq kg–1, 27.5 nGy h–1, 33.7 mSv year–1, 0.16, 0.22, 0.44, and 1.18 × 10–4 for the radium equivalent activity, absorbed γ-dose, effective dose, external and internal hazard indices, gamma index, and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR), respectively. According to the results obtained, all samples would not present significant radiological hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free-living amoebae (FLA) are gaining attention due to the increasing number of related grave central nervous system (CNS) and sight-threatening eye infections and their role as Trojan horses for many bacteria and viruses. This study was conducted in Assiut City, Egypt to detect the presence of FLA in different water sources using morphological and molecular approaches and determine their potential pathogenicity. A total of 188 water samples (100 tap, 80 tank, and 8 swimming pool samples) were collected, cultivated on non-nutrient agar seeded with Escherichia coli, and inspected for FLA. Thermo- and osmo-tolerance assays were performed to determine their pathogenicity. Polymerase chain reaction and sequence analysis were performed to confirm the identification and analyze the genotype. Overall, 52 samples (27.7%) were positive for FLA. Of these, 20.7% were identified as Acanthamoeba, 1.6% as Vahlkampfiidae, and 5.3% as mixed Acanthamoeba and Vahlkampfiidae. Seven species of Acanthamoeba were recognized, of which A. triangularis, A. polyphaga, A. lenticulata, and A. culbertsoni are thermo- and osmo-tolerant, and A. astronyxis, A. comandoni, and A. echinulata are non-thermo- and non-osmo-tolerant. The phylogeny analysis revealed T4 and T7 genotypes. Among Vahlkampfiids, 61.5% were identified as thermo- and osmo-tolerant Vahlkampfia, and 30.8% were identified as non-pathogenic Naegleria. One isolate (7.7%) was identified as potentially pathogenic Allovahlkampfia, as confirmed by sequencing. This is the first report documenting the occurrence and phylogeny of waterborne FLA (Acanthamoeba/Vahlkampfiidae) in Assiut, Egypt. The presence of potentially pathogenic FLA highlights the possible health hazards and the need for preventive measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out during the 2019 & 2020 seasons on 15-year-old Washington navel orange trees budded on sour orange rootstock grown at 5 x 5 meters a part in loamy sand soil under surface irrigation on the private farm at Kom Hamada, El-Behera Governorate, Egypt. The main goal of this investigation was directed towards improving productivity and fruit quality of Washington navel orange trees associated with lower production cost through investigating the minimizing of chemical N fertilizers by Bio-N. Anyhow, the eight treatments involved in this study were summarized as follows: T1- Chemical N (adopted N fertilization in the farm) at 3.5kg/tree from (NH4)2SO4, T2- Urea, T3- Ammonium sulphate (NH4)2SO4, T4- Ammonium nitrate (NH4)2NO3, T5- Nitroben (bio-N), T6- Urea + Nitroben (bio-N), T7- Ammonium sulphate + Nitroben (bio-N) and T8- Ammonium nitrate + Nitroben (bio-N). Data obtained revealed that all investigated treatments positively responded to fruit (set % and retention %), and yield/tree and fruit quality were also improved. However, T8- Ammonium nitrate+ Nitroben (bio-N) was statistically superior in this concern. Moreover, T7 - Ammonium sulphate + Nitroben (bio-N) ranked statistically second in this concern. Consequently, it can be recommended that minimizing 50 % chemical N fertilizers by Nitroben at the rate of 500cm³ per tree + 50% chemical-N (Ammonium nitrate 2.5 Kg per tress) enhanced productivity and fruit quality of Washington navel orange trees under the same conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable agriculture has many constrains suppress it's continually this raise the importance of evaluating indicators status of agricultural sustainability. Land sustainability was evaluated in different areas in El-Monofia Governorate, through five indices (productivity, security, protection, economic viability and social acceptability). The area, lies between latitudes 30o 20 to 30o 50' N, and longitudes 30o 50' to 31o 20'E, The total of study area is about 33961 ha, This study found that more than 60% of the study are achieved sustainability index class II, while 38.7% of the area achieved sustainability index class I. There for agricultural land sustainability in El-Monofia Governorate requires much more governmental and public efforts through Attention to social and economic factors, Educate farmers to improve agricultural productivity and Using of precision agriculture as a technique maximize agricultural yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of genetic variability is crucial in developing new genotypes with desired yield and quality traits. This evaluation allows breeders to identify superior germplasm, breeding genotypes with specific combinations, and enhance crop performance across diverse environmental conditions. Hence, this study aimed to study the performance of ten eggplant genotypes (Solanum melongena L.); i.e., Little Fingers (LF), Ping Tung (PT), Antigua (An), Aswad (As), Japanese White Egg (JWE), Apple Green (AG), Rotonda Bianca Stumata di Rosa (BSR), Korean Red (KR), Black Oblong (BO) and Black Very Long (BL). In addition, to explore genetic advance and correlation among studied traits under three intra-row plant spacings, (30, 45 and 60 cm). The study was performed at Zagazig District, Egypt during the two successive summer seasons of 2017 and 2018. The results indicated significant variation among the tested genotypes.The broad sense heritability (hb 2) exhibited the highest percentage at narrow planting spaces and decreased with increased spaces in all studied traits. Broad sense heritabilities were moderate magnitude for number of branches (39% and 30.9%) at 45 and 60 cm spaces, respectively. Genetic advance (GA %) was high for all studied traits except number of branches. High heritability estimates and a high predicted genetic advance indicated that these qualities and genotypes could be effective in developing breeding programs to increase fruit quality and yield. Strong genetic correlations between morphological and yield-related variables were found via correlation studies. The path analysis results showed that the fruit weight had the largest direct effect on yield/ plant (2.984 and 3.11) followed by number of fruits (0.579 and 1.525), and branches number/ plant (0.161 and 0.304) at 30 and 45 cm planting spaces, respectively. While the branches number/ plant exhibited the largest direct effect on yield/ plant (5.341) followed by fruit length (3.328), and fruit diameter (0.625) at 60 cm planting space, indicating the effectiveness of direct selection for these traits for developing high yielding genotypes of eggplant under different planting spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The saw-toothed grain beetle, Oryzaephilus surinamensis (L.) is an important pest of many stored product foods. The effect of insect infestation on four various of whole food kinds as semi-dry date, dry date fruits, white sesame and reddish yellow sesame seeds as well as four food kinds of crushed seeds (chickpea, corn, rice and groundnut) as compared with standard diet (wheat flour, crushed wheat and dry yeast powder at 5:5:1, respectively) was investigated in the laboratory of Plant Protection Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Egypt. Insect parameters on the tested food kinds as regards to resistance were duration of developmental stages, number of F1 progeny, growth index and weight loss (%) after one month of storage. All tested parameters were significantly affected by food kinds except the duration of pupal stage in whole foods. The shortest mean insect complete developmental period was 19.85 days on standard diet, while the longest one was 29.18 days on whole reddish yellow sesame seeds and 35.05 days on crushed groundnut. Values of the growth index (GI) increased from 3.22 to 3.76 on whole reddish yellow sesame seeds and crushed chickpea, respectively compared to 4.64 on standard diet. The wet weight loss (%) ranged from 0.50 and 0.67% in whole sesame seeds (white and reddish yellow) and crushed groundnut, suscessively compared to11.17% in standard diet. The relative wet weight loss (%) in whole seeds reached its minimum (1.94%) in each of whole white and reddish yellow sesame seeds and reached its maximum (43.23%) in standard diet, while in crushed foods, the lowest value was 3.16% in crushed groundnut as compared with the standard diet which recorded the highest percent 52.76%. All tested foods either whole or crushed were infested with O. surinamensis and no completely immune food was found free from the insect infestation but the insect preferred crushed foods and some foods than another. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study aimed to identify and characterize the common species of house dust mites collected from different areas in Assiut city, study their seasonal variation, and effects of some housing criteria on their prevalence. This could help in the assessment of the magnitude of the current situation in this locality and assist in implementing appropriate investigations and diagnostic tools which in turn offers a better quality of life to allergy sufferers in our study locality as well as for others. Dust samples were collected from eight regions representing the two main districts of Assiut City as systemic random samples. For proper dust collection we used both a vacuum cleaner and a hand sweeper from different rooms of each house (bedrooms, mattresses, floor, bedding and living rooms). Also, two methods were used for mite extraction: Kero-float method and modified Berlese-Tullgren funnel. Light microscopy as well as SEM were used to identify different mite species with the aid of an identification key. The overall prevalence of house dust mites in collected samples was 94 positive samples per 300 houses examined in this study. Seasonal variations significantly affected the prevalence of house dust mites; the highest frequency was noticed during winter (66.7%) and the least frequency was noticed during summer (13.3%). Kero-float method was more sensitive and accurate than modified Berlese-Tullgren funnel in mites' extraction in a given sample (100% and 47.9% respectively). The most frequently isolated species were Dermatophagoides farinae (80.9%) and D. pteronyssinus (58.5%) followed by stored products mite, Tyrophagus putrescentiae (50%) and predatory mite, Cheyletus malaccensis (31.9%) while the least frequent species was Dermanyssus gallinae (21.3%). Mixed species were detected in 48 (51.1%) of the positive samples. Some housing criteria: age of the house, damp or moldy stains on floor or on other indoor surfaces (walls, ceiling), presence of carpets/rugs and aeration style (sunny/shady) have significantly affected the prevalence of house dust mites in different houses. We concluded that although Assiut is the driest city in Egypt with low relative humidity, which is an essential factor in the survival of mites, there is significant prevalence of house dust mites (31.3%). Housing criteria significantly affected the presence of HDMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of the native predatory mite Cydnoseius negevi (Swirski and Amitai) (=Typlodromus negevi) as a biological control agent for Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) complex, Onion thrips Thrips tapaci (Lindeman) and Tetranychus urticae (Koch). The efficacy of Phytoseiulus persimilis (Athias-Henriot) against these pests was also evaluated. The data obtained revealed reduction in population density of the above-mentioned pests in the experimental plots for P. persimilis and C. negivi compared to the control plot. Mean population density of each of the pests ranging from 32.2–0.5, 284.4–2.0 and 441.8–2.0 individuals / leaf for T. urticae, in the three plots respectively. The mean values of B. tabaci fluctuated between 41.1–2.1, 16.2–1.0 and 57.3–3.6. individuals / leaf and T. tabaci between 20.1–2.6, 13.7–1.4 and 24.9–1.9 individuals / leaf respectively. A slight non-consumptive negative effect is shown by P. persimilis against the pests B. tabaci and T. tabaci. This preliminary experiment hopefully will enhance the role of the native predator C. negevi to play a role in bio-control and its mass augmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egypt is an important geographical location for wintering puddle ducks. In order to investigate their relationships, 30 ducks from genus Anas were sampled from different aquatic regions of New Damietta, Damietta Governorate, Egypt. Many phylogenetic studies used mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) as an effective molecular marker. The COI barcodes of six ducks species were analyzed in this work from one genus Anas belonging to family Anatidae. The studied species of ducks were identified correctly from their DNA barcodes. The distances were calculated between barcodes by utilizing of utilizing Kimura two parameter (K2P). Maximum Likelihood was used to construct a phylogenetic tree, which grouped the entire genus into three divergent clades. Within family Anatidae, COI analysis supported a basal position of Anas clypeata and Anas querquedula. It also supported the sister group relationship between Anas carolinensis and Anas platyrhynchos and the cluster comprising Anas acuta and Anas strepera. It was concluded that most Anatidae species have distinct COI sequences. DNA barcoding is a powerful molecular tool for species identification and phylogenetic inference of Anatidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In aquatic ecosystem biomonitoring, the use of biota and their habitat provides a good indication of conditions and potential threats to any water body. The potential for heavy metal poisoning in humans because of consuming tainted fish has gotten a lot of press around the world. Heavy metal pollutants in water are mostly caused by human activities such as waste disposal, organic fuel combustion, phosphate fertilizers, plastics, and pesticides. The aim of this study was to see how much heavy metals contamination there was in Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus and how physicochemical characteristics affected the biomarkers. Heavy metals accumulation (cadmium, lead, zinc, copper, and iron) was studied on the serological indices of a freshwater fish O. niloticus. Fish, water, and sediments were collected at three locations along the Nile River. The findings of this study showed a significant difference in water quality indices in response to pollution levels among the sites studied. Consequently, the current results confirm that the distribution of heavy metals in tissues could potentially deteriorate biochemical parameters of O. niloticus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A filed experiment was carried out at a private farm located at Qaha District, Qalubayia governorate, Egypt, during the two successive summer seasons of 2018 and 2019 to evaluate growth and productivity of seven new dry bean genotypes (DB-2-435, DB-5-485, DB-5-486, DB-5-487, DB-5-489, DB-7-4 and DB-7-31) in additional to three commercial cultivars (Giza 3, Giza 6 and Nebraska) under different plant densities, i.e., 5 cm one row, 10 cm one row, 5 cm 2 rows and 10 cm 2 rows/ridge. These treatments were arranged in a split plot in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Plant densities were randomly distributed in the main plot and genotypes were randomly arranged in the sub plot. As average two seasons, sowing seeds of genotypes DB-5-485, DB-5-487, DB-5-489 at 10 cm on one side increased number of branches/plant, leaf area/plant, dry weight/plant and total chlorophyll in leaf tissues, followed by the interaction between sowing at 10 cm on one side and Nebraska cultivar regarding total chlorophyll in both seasons. In general, the interaction between sowing at 10 cm on one side and Nebraska cultivar or genotype DB-5-485 increased number of seeds/pod, yield/plant in both seasons. Respecting total yield, the interaction between sowing at 5 or 10 cm on two sides and Nebraska cultivar or the genotype DB5-485 gave the highest values of total yield /fed., however, the interaction between sowing at 5 cm on one row and DB-5-486 genotype gave the lowest total yield/fed. (0.781 ton/fed.) as average of two seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcocystis is an intracellular protozoan parasite in the phylum Apicomplexa. It is widely distributed all over the world. There are scarce reports about chicken Sarcocystis. From February 2016 to January 2018, a total number of 630 chicken carcasses, intestines and viscera were collected from different chicken markets in Menoufia and Gharbia Governorates, Middle region of the Nile Delta, Egypt and carefully inspected. Macroscopic and microscopic cysts of Sarcocystis spp. were found in the intestinal wall and mesentery of 5 birds. Histopathological sections revealed the presence of two shapes of the macroscopic cysts (oval and kidney shape). Their wall was striated and characterised by the presence of radial septa. It had compartments mostly of hexagonal shape, containing both bradyzoites and metrocytes in the periphery. The bradyzoites were banana-shaped and measured 20-30 × 8-10 μm with centrally or posteriorly located nuclei. Microscopic cysts of Sarcocystis spp. were detected inbetween muscle bundles, with variable shapes (spindle and oval). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing E. coli and salmonellae have spread rapidly worldwide and pose a serious threat to human and animal health. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of ESBL-producing E.coli and salmonellae, to perform molecular characterisation of the ESBL-related bla genes, including blaTEM, blaSHV and blaCTX, and the susceptibilities of these bacteria to various antimicrobial agents. From a total of 300 poultry samples, 25 and 20 samples were recognised as Salmonella and E. coli, respectively by microbiological and molecular methods. All E. coli and Salmonella isolates were positive for an ESBL phenotype. Molecular detection for antibiotic resistance gene revealed blaTEM in all isolates of salmonellae and E. coli (100%), while blaSHV was detected in 5 (20%) and 2 (10%) of salmonellae and E. coli isolates, respectively. None of the isolates contained blaCTX gene. Serotyping of Salmonella spp. in chickens revealed that S. enteritidis was the major isolates followed by S. Infantis (21.4%), S. Kentucky (14.2%) and S. Typhimurium, S. Kapemba, S. Newport, S. Vejle and S. Magherafelt were detected at 7.1% respectively. S. Infantis was the major isolate detected in chicks (60%), while in ducks S. Typhimurium and S. Blegdam were identified. In ducklings, S. Sinchew, S. Infantis and S. Sekondi were equally prevalent. Only S. Newmexico was identified in poultry products. E. coli in chicken were serotyped into O1, O8, O29, O125, O128 and O157. In chicks, O29 and O126 serotypes were detected. In poultry products only O8 was detected. The results indicate that ESBL frequency has reached an alarming level in poultry isolates in Egypt, with TEM enzymes being the predominant β-lactamases detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soda lakes characterized by salinity and elevated pH, these lakes represent a vast reservoir of novel microbial diversity of potential applications. In this article, two distinct salt lakes in northwestern Egypt were explored for the diversity of cultivable aerobic haloalkaliphilic bacteria. Physicochemical analyses revealed that samples possessed the characteristic features of alkaline hypersaline lakes (high pH, high Na+, and Cl− content with low Mg+2). The phenotypic characterization showed great diversification between members of the same genus. They were characterized phenotypically based on their cell and colony morphology, production of extra-cellular enzymes, some metabolic activities and antibiogram profile. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using 16S rRNA sequence. All strains were haloalkaliphilic belonging to phylum Firmicutes. They were affiliated to the genera Alkalibacillus, Salinicoccus, Gracilibacillus, Thalassobacillus, Halobacillus, Staphylococcus, and Bacillus. Surprisingly, Thalassobacillus species were only isolated from the sediment of Marsa-Matrouh lake (MML), while members of the genera Alkalibacillus, Salinicoccus and Staphylococcus were isolated from the sediment of Al-Hamra lake (AHL). Members of the genus Gracilibacillus were among the common community of the two lakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dual-purpose cereals culturally provide the opportunity to graze a crop during the vegetative phase, and still harvest grain yield at the end of the growing season. It can also help to face climatic changes like frost or dry conditions risk. The aim of the study was to determine the benefits of a dual-purpose barley culture in relation to livestock feed, human nutrition, risk mitigation, and whether a malting variety can also be used for dual-purpose use. A field experiment was carried out in the farm of Nubaria Agricultural Research Station, El-Behera Governorate, Egypt, using five barley varieties during the two successive growing seasons of 2019/2020 - 2020/2021 for dual purpose utilization. No significant differences between the two seasons. The cutting treatment revealed significant or highly significant differences on all studied traits except number of tillers.m-2 and number of spikes.m-2. Green forage weight was highly significantly affected. Concerning normal cultivation, the differences among the five barley cultivars were highly significant for all studied traits except number of spikes m-2. Significant or highly significant differences were found among studied traits concerning cultivars and cutting treatment interaction. Normal cultivation conditions also exhibited that Giza 132 gave the highest grain yield followed by Giza133 and Giza 126. While Giza 2000 gave the heaviest green forage weight followed by Giza 133 and Giza 126 under dual purpose utilization. Moreover, under dual purpose utilization, Giza 126 and Giza 2000 were the best barley cultivars for both green forage and grain yield production. The existing improved dual barley variety conserve the purpose in specified environment as alternative for the green forage demand without sacrificing the grain yield in the rainfed, arid, and semi-arid regions of Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on the taxonomic composition and stratigraphic distribution of small benthic foraminifers in the Danian–Priabonian Paleogene stages of Syria based on the analysis of V.A. Krasheninnikov's collections is presented. The small benthic foraminiferal zones identified in the Palmyrid sections within the framework of planktonic foraminiferal zonation developed by Krasheninnikov and correlated with the zonal standard of the International Stratigraphic Scale (zones P1–P17) are the following: Stensioeina beccariiformis–Anomalina danica Zone (P1a–P2); Vaginulina robusta–Pyramidina crassa Zone (P3); Reussella paleocenica Zone (P4–P5); Pseudogaudryina soldadoensis–Cibicidoides lybicus Zone (P6–P7); Hydromylinella wittpyuti Zone (P8–P9); beds with Paragaudryina dalmatina–Hydromylininellawittpyuti (P10 and P11); Falsoplanulina ammophila Zone (P12 and P13); beds with Queraltina epistominoides (P14); and Planulina costata Zone (P15–P17). The presence of species from these zones in other regions of Syria and Egypt is inferred from Krasheninnikov's published works. The composition and development of the Paleogene foraminifera of Syria and the Crimean-Caucasian region that represent the Tethys and northeastern Peri-Tethys biota, respectively, are compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An integrated control program for peaches and apples powdery mildew was evaluatedboth Burg Al-Arab and South of Tahreer regions. In the first season, the efficiency of the program’s fungicides were tested in terms of the number of sprays and the most appropriate time to repeat the sprays, as well as the best effective fungicides. It was found that they all treatments were effective in controlling the disease. The best time to repeat spraying was from seven up to 10 days. In the second season, the chosen fungicides were evaluated compared with the farm fungicides individually, and the general control (sprayed with water only). On the other hand, evaluation of essential oils and fertilizers were done individually. The results showed the efficiency of systemic fungicide (Scor), copper and sulfur (preventive fungicides) and cinnamon oil and chitosan as Eco - friendly alternatives in controlling the disease. In the third season all tested fungicides used at the dormancy stage of trees at first January before buds swelling, data showed that all fungicides indicate high effect in decreasing the disease comparing with control at the in first of May compared to the control (100% disease severity). The tested fungicides gave 2.9% and 3.3% in case of peach at Borg Al-Arab and South of Tahreer respectively and 6%, 8.6% in apple at Borg Al-Arab and South of Tahreer respectively. At the fourth season all treatments combined in the integrated program were done at beginning spray (at 8 January while dormancy stage of trees) on apple. The tested program showed significant reduction on peach and apple powdery mildew compared to the control (100% disease severity) at the end of tested program comparing with the farm of tested program in case of peach and apple at Borg Al-Arab and South of Tahreer respectively, in May before harvest. In the fifth season the same tested program applied at t at the first of November during the winter tree service. The tested program was effective in control peach and apple powdery disease in locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments had been conducted using different pesticides commonly used on vegetable crops searching for suitable compound could be successfully used in controlling of the glassy clover snail, Monacha cartusiana, during the activity period at Sharkia Governorate. The obtained data clearly showed, the percent reductions of snail under field conditions were significantly differed from one pesticide to another and from vegetable crop to another more over the date of examination after application was also affected in addition to; densities of infestation, the crop cultivation rates, ecological behavior of the snails and types of dispersion in each crop. Since, the tested pesticides reduced snails’ population in squash with varying degrees, the general means of percent reduction three days after application recorded maximum reduction with malathion and methomyl with 57.26 and 53.61% reduction, while the least effects were recorded with imidacloprid and acetamiprid with 31.25 and 27.07%. The same trend was observed two and three weeks after application with a slight increase or decrease in reduction percentages with all tested compounds. On the other site, the tested pesticides reducing populations on cabbage one week after application with maximum reduction by methomyl and malathion, 56.09 and 52.51%, while the least effects were recorded with acetamiprid and imidacloprid with 30.61and 26.51% reduction, respectively. When regarding reducing in snails’ populations on eggplant three weeks after application, the highest effect was recorded with malathion; moderate effect was with fipronil while imidacloprid showed the least effect in reduction. As soon as, on tomato one week after application, the reduction recorded with malathion was 57.25% followed by methomyl 53.60%, while with imidacloprid 31.25% and acetamiprid 27.07% reduction percentages. On green pea the efficacy of pesticides after the third week of application reducing the populations with highest effect by methomyl; moderate effect with fipronil while the least effect recorded with imidacloprid. While in spinach one week after application the reduction percentages recorded 59.24% with methomyl, 55.47% with malathion, 32.33% with acetamiprid and 28.01% reduction, with imidacloprid moreover the same trend was observed two and three weeks after application. Generally, the molluscicidal determination of all tested pesticides in controlling the glassy clover snail, M. cartusiana infesting vegetable crops under field conditions at Sharkia Governorate could be arranged as; total general means of percent reduction, after four weeks of application as follows: Methomyl < Malathion < Emamectin benzoate < Fipronil < Acetamiprid and Imidacloprid with percentage reductions of 59.06, 54.24, 47.77, 43.26, 30.75 and 28.96%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to survey the phytophagous tetranychid mite, Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor) Tetranychidae in different regions of Egypt. Also, the effect of O. afrasiaticus infestation on the different components of date palm fruits was determined after one month of filed infestation. The results showed that the O. afrasiaticus appeared infested the date palm fruits in New -Valley, Giza, and Marsa Matruh Governorates only and disappeared from the other tested locations of Egypt. It was observed from the study that O. afrasiaticus infested Barhi Variety (Fresh) with a rare number in Sharq El-Ewinate region (New-Valley) only. On the other hand, Siwi variety (Semi-dry) infested with O. afrasiaticus on date palm fruits in Baharia Oasis (Giza Governorate), Siwa Oasis region (Marsa Matruh), El-Kharga Oasis and Dakhla Oasis region (New -Valley ). However, it was noticed that Samani and Zaghloul (Fresh varieties) did not infest with O. afrasiaticus during this study. The current study indicated that the protein contents were decreased when the fruits exposed to the infestation by O. afrasiaticus where it was recorded 18.6 mg/gm of fruits in infested fruits compared to 26.37 mg/gm in non-infested fruits. The highest level of carbohydrate content was (445.0 mg/gm) in non-infested date palm fruits. While the lowest carbohydrates level (308.0 mg/gm) was found when the date fruits exposed to mite's infestation. The obtained data showed that the nitrogen content of infested date palm fruits was 3.33 ug/gm of fruits but the recorded level of nitrogen in non-infested fruits was 4.37 ug/gm of fruits. The lowest content of phosphorus (3.1 μg/gm) was observed with infested fruits compared with 7.43μg/gm in the case of noninfested fruits. There were slight differences in potassium contents(7.16 and 7.83 μg/gm ) between infested and non-infested date fruits respectively,.The biochemical data revealed that the level of calcium contents was slightly differed (16.4 and 16.67 μg/gm) in date palm fruits infested and non-infested with mite individuals of O. afrasiaticus, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the genetic control of seed yield and yield-related traits by using Hayman's approach, and to estimate the proportion of dominant and recessive genes controlling traits in each parent, five genetically divergent genotypes of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) were crossed using a half-diallel mating design (excluding reciprocal crosses). The parents along with their half-diallel crosses were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with three replicates at Kafr El-Hamam/Sharkia and Al-Arish/North Sinai Agricultural Research Stations, Agricultural Research Center, Egypt. Significant differences were observed among genotypes for all studied traits at individual locations and across locations. Magnitude of additive gene effects was larger than that for dominance effects for all studied traits (except for seed weight plant−1) when the ratio [(a/b) & (H1/D) 0.5] was greater than unity at both locations, as also confirmed by high narrow-sense heritability. Hence, selection in early generations would be effective at both locations for these traits. Parents L1031, L1033, and Miak were desirable for early flowering and maturity as well as for short stature and increased proportion of seed oil, whereas Giza 102 and L24 were promising parents for improving number of green leaves plant−1, head diameter, 100-seed weight, and hence seed weight plant−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pots experiment was designed in two summer successive seasons of 2017 and 2018 at the wire house of the Agric. Bot. Dept., Fac. Agric. Zagazig Univ., Sharkia Governorate, Egypt. Common bean plants cv. Giza 3 were foliar sprayed with different concentrations of humic acid, proline, naphthalene acetic acid and distilled water (as a control) under sea water salinity levels, i.e. 1000, 2000 and 3000 ppm and tap water (500 ppm) as a control, to examine its effects on growth, photosynthetic pigments, proline content, yield and leaf anatomy of common bean plants. Results revealed that most studied traits, i.e., plant height, number of leaves/plant, leaf area, fresh weight of roots, stems and leaves, photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, chlorophyll a+b and carotenoids) and yield expressed as number of pods/plant, number of seeds/pod, number of seeds/ plant, 100-seed weight and length of pod as well as leaf anatomical parameters. Most aforementioned features were significantly decreased with increasing sea water levels up to the highest level (3000 ppm) comparison with control (tap water). On the contrary, proline content in leaves was increased with increasing salinity levels up to 3000 ppm. On the other hand, spraying common bean plants with humic acid at 2 and 4g/L, proline at 50 and 100 ppm and naphthalene acetic acid at 25 and 50 ppm had a positive significant effect in most studied traits compared to control (distilled water). In general, the most favorable treatments were foliar spray common bean plants with humic acid at 2g/L followed by proline at 100 ppm then naphthalene acetic acid at 25 ppm, respectively compared to control (distilled water). It could be concluded that spraying of humic acid, proline and naphthalene acetic acid mitigate the harmful effect of sea water salinity on common bean plants and the best treatment was interaction between irrigation with tap water or sea water at 1000 ppm and spraying by humic acid at 2 g/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first study of analyzing and identifying the hedgehog community in Egypt using a molecular marker especially it includes the Four-toed Hedgehog which is found in Gebel Elba but has never been signalized in Egypt. Thirty-two specimens are representing seven species and subspecies of hedgehogs were sampled. Five external measurements and eight cranial measurements were used. DNA was extracted and cytochrome b gene sequences data were analyzed. Maximum Likelihood tree based on Cyt b sequences reveals that there are two separate genetic clusters, one cluster for genus Atelerix and the other includes Hemiechinus and Paraechinus members. Genetic relationship between three subspecies of genus Paraechinus was detected, the morphological relationship was studied but there is a difficult to distinguish between them. These results strongly suggest that cytochrome b gene has been confirmed as an effective tool among mitochondrial genes, with high power of differentiation for species identification and characterization in both taxonomy and forensic science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) are opportunistic infections associated with significant mortality in paediatric patients, especially in those with compromised immune system and neonates with very low birth weight (VLBW). The objectives of this study are to determine the prevalence, clinical features and fungi isolates of neonatal sepsis in three hospitals in Egypt. Methodology: The study is a cross sectional survey of 176 neonates with clinical sepsis admitted to the neonatal intensive care units (NICU) of the three hospitals over a period of one year (February 2015 to January 2016). A minimum of two blood samples (collected within 24 hours) from each neonate were cultured for bacteria in automated BacT/AlerT and conventional culture bottles, while Saboraud-Brain Heart Infusion broth was inoculated for fungi culture. Positive growths from the broth were sub-cultured on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) plates for aerobic incubation at 25oC and 37oC for 2 weeks. Identification of fungi colonies on SDA was by conventional morphology and confirmation on chromogenic agar media. Phylogenetic analysis of representative fungi isolates was done by partial nucleotide sequencing of D1-D2 domain of the large subunit rRNA gene. Results: Of the 176 neonates, blood culture was positive for pathogens in 55 (31.3%) samples and fungi were isolated in 26 (14.8%); yeast (25) and mould (1). The commonly isolated yeasts were Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, and Candida krusei representing 34.6%, 30.8% and 23.1%, respectively of the total fungi isolated. The phylogenetic analysis in comparison to Genbank data showed defined clades for Candida tropicalis, Candida parapsilosis, Candida albicans and Pichia kudriavzevii. Conclusion: This current study highlights the changing pattern of neonatal infections in Egypt caused by Candida, with increasing incidence of infections caused by non-albicans Candida species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Gulf of Aqaba is situated along the southern part of the Dead Sea Rift Area transform (DST), 1000 km (620 miles), the boundary between the African plate and the Arabian plate. It is situated toward the east of the Sinai landmass and west of Saudi Arabia. It is one of the joints interfacing the Asian and African landmasses. The Gulf expands 180 km from Eilat and Aqaba and joins the Red Sea in the Strait of Tiran, with the most extensive purpose of 28 km. On November 22, 1995, the biggest seismic tremor estimating 7.0 degrees happened along parts of the dead left line in the Gulf of Aqaba close to the port of Nuweiba in Egypt. This tremor made extraordinary harm Egypt and neighboring nations. Consequently, a few point by point investigations of seismology and geophysics have been led in the Gulf of Aqaba. In the territory researched, the vast majority of the ongoing seismic action revolved around the Gulf of Aqaba is portrayed by the contribution of moderate central quakes, an immediate aftereffect of the relative development between the plates of Africa, Sinai and the Arabian Peninsula. Seismic Energy along the Gulf of Aqaba locale is assessed utilizing a brief period (50 tests for every second) executed by the Egyptian National Seismic Network amid the period 1998‒2017. The connection between the dispatch and greatness of quakes in the Gulf of Aqaba demonstrated that the vast majority of the seismic Energy discharge originates from the biggest occasions and is packed in the inside, while it is moderately low in the southern and northern parts of the Gulf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sudan grass is less sensitive to water shortage and produces large amounts of biomass. For these reasons, it is a promising summer forage crop for arid and semiarid regions where natural pastures are rare and water scarcity limits summer forage production. The aim of the present work was to investigate the influence of cutting date (early and late, for three cuts) and three nitrogen (N) fertilizer levels (35, 70, and 105 kg N/ha/cut) on Sudan grass (Sorghum sudanense (Piper) Stapf.). The study was carried out in the experimental farm of Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Egypt, during 2016 and 2017 summer seasons using a split-plot design. The results obtained revealed significant differences between the two cutting dates on growth, forage yield, and quality of Sudan grass. The late cutting date (56 days after sowing DAS and 42 days after the 1st cut) gave the highest values for almost all the growth characters, dry forage yield in addition to total dry yield (TDY) in both seasons. The highest number of shoots/plant (1.911), leaf area/plant (2841.6 cm2), and dry forage weight (g)/plant (76.65 g) were obtained by late cutting (56 DAS) with the application of 105 kg N/ha/cut. The lowest values of these characters were recorded with 35 kg N/ha/cut. Quality parameters were significantly affected by N levels during both seasons, while cutting date significantly affected the protein yield (kg/ha). The interaction result apparently indicated that the highest dry forage yield of Sudan grass (16.26 ton/ha) was achievable at the 1st cut with the application of the highest N level (105 kg N/ha/cut). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation was conducted at the, Experimental Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt during 2016 and 2017 summer seasons to study the growth and forage yield of Pearl millet. The experiment was arranged in a split plot design with three replications. The treatments consisted of two cutting dates [early at 56 days after sowing (DAS), and late at 63 DAS for the 1st cut, and after 35 and 42 days from the 1st and 2nd cuts for the 2nd and 3rd cuts] respectively and three nitrogen (N) fertilizer levels viz. 15, 30 and 45 kg N/fad./cut. The results indicated that late cutting date significantly produced the highest growth values for each of plant height (238.2 cm), leaf area/plant (4970.2 cm2) and fresh forage weight (164.9 (g)/plant). Also, the highest fresh and dry forage yields (16.88 and 3.541 ton/fad), the highest total fresh seasonal yield (TFSY) and total dry seasonal yield (TDSY) 37.98 and 7.11 ton/fad., were as well recorded by late cutting in both seasons. Apparently, the highest obtained value of each studied growth traits and the forage yield during both growing seasons was achieved by increasing N fertilizer level up to the highest amount (45 kg N/fad./cut), followed by 30 and 15 kg N/fad./cut, respectively. The significant interaction effect between the two studied factors on forage yield indicated that the highest (TDSY) (7.607 ton/fad.) of pearl millet was obtainable at late cutting date under application of 45 kg N/fad./ cut. The results of the present study has concluded that, cutting at 63 DAS followed by 42 and 35 days interval for next cuts (three cuts) with application of 45 kg N/fad./cut is optimum for better growth and yield performance in pearl millet cultivar “Shandaweel 1” under the agro-climatic conditions of Sharkia Governorate in Egypt and similar areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cotton leaf worm, Spodoptera littoralis, is one of the most injurious agricultural pests in Egypt. In the present study, the interaction between spinosad and Bacillus thuringiensis, using different pairings, in third and fifth instar larvae was determined. Activities of α- and β-non-specific esterases and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were also determined. Additionally, AChE transcript abundance using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was detected. The cumulative percentage mortality of S. littoralis, third and fifth instar larvae, to spinosad and B. thuringiensis were increased gradually by increasing the concentrations. Spinosad was more potent than B. thuringiensis. Sequential application of these bio-insecticides, on the LC25 level on third and fifth instar larvae, when spinosad was first applied, showed synergistic interaction and additive effect, respectively.On the other hand, when B. thuringiensis was first applied, using the same timing of application, additive interaction was observed for both third and fifth instars. Individual, simultaneous and sequential applications of these bio-insecticides induced variable changes in α- and β-esterases and AChE activities. Real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) revealed an increase in transcript abundance up to 2.0-fold in third instar larvae in case of sequential and simultaneous applications. Based on the results herein, integrated pest management programme using spinosad and B. thuringiensis can be successfully developed for the control of S. littoralis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth most prevalent cancer in Egypt. The use of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) has come under attention recently due to concerns about increased HCC risk. Objective: The aim of the current work was to determine the frequency of HCC after treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) by DAAs. Patients and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included a total of 69 Egyptian patients with HCV. It was performed from the registered patients' records, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University Hospitals. Patients were treated using direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and had sustained virological response after twelve weeks (SVR 12), a follow-up over the course of subsequent six months to detect HCC occurrence. Abdominal ultrasound screening and serum alpha-fetoprotein level after completion of DAAs treatment was done every three months. Any suspicious lesion in the liver was further confirmed by Triphasic CT Scan. Results: HCC incidence was 10.4%. Cases with a Child-Pugh score A were not more likely to develop HCC after completing treatment, and SVR12 was not associated with an increased risk of HCC, though, the patients with a Child-Pugh score B were at high risk (P = 0.0001). Treatment with SOF+DAC for 24 weeks was associated with a risk of HCC incidence (p 0.0001). Prolonged prothrombin time and the incidence of an unfavorable effect of DAAs (fatigue and gastrointestinal troubles) emerged as HCC development independent risk factors in a multivariate analysis with OR (CI) of 16.8 (10.2-78.6), 15 (1.16-73.7), 19 (1.48-46.6) respectively. Conclusion: HCC following DAAs treatment still occurs in certain patients, especially with advanced liver cirrhosis. Prolonged prothrombin time and DAAs-related side effects are independent risk factors for HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Brucellosis is a highly contagious zoonotic disease caused by an intracellular facultative microorganism termed Brucella spp. Control of brucellosis depends on test and slaughter policy as well as vaccination programs. Aim: Estimation of the cell-mediated immunity (CMI) [total leukocytic count (TLC), phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)] in camels after vaccination with RB51 using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Methods: A total of eight camels were grouped into two groups as follows: group (A): vaccinated with RB51 vaccine [1 dose/2 ml S/C (3 × 1010 CFU)] and group (B): control group. IL-6 and TNF-α were used for estimation of the CMI using real-time PCR on serum samples that were collected at 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 60 days after vaccination from each group. In addition, TLC, phagocytic activity, and phagocytic index were evaluated on heparinized blood samples at 0 and 60 days post-vaccination. Results: RB51 vaccine provides a protective immune response which progressively increases from the first week to 60 days after vaccination. Moreover, the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 differed between camels in the vaccinated group. Conclusion: Vaccination of camels with RB51 vaccine (with dose 3 × 1010 CFU) could induce good protective immune responses and this immunological response will be a good indication for a safe field vaccine that can be used for the control of camel brucellosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anopheles pharoensis has a major role in transmitting several human diseases, especially malaria, in Egypt?. Controlling Anopheles is considered as an effective strategy to eliminate the spread of malaria worldwide. Galaxaura rugosa is a species of red algae found in tropical to subtropical marine environments. The presence of G. rugosa is indicative of the ecosystem's overall health. The current work aims to investigate UPLC/ESI/MS profile of G. rugosa methanol and petroleum ether extracts and its activity against An. pharoensis and non-target organisms, Danio rerio and Daphnia magna. Methods: Galaxaura rugosa specimens have been identified using DNA barcoding for the COI gene and verified as G. rugosa. The UPLC/ESI/MS profiling of G. rugosa collected from Egypt was described. The larvicidal and repellent activities of G. rugosa methanol and petroleum ether extracts against An. pharoensis were evaluated, as well as the toxicity of tested extracts on non-target organisms, Dan. rerio and Dap. magna. Results: The UPLC/ESI/MS analysis of methanol and petroleum ether extracts led to the tentative identification of 57 compounds belonging to different phytochemical classes, including flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, phenyl propanoids. Larval mortality was recorded at 93.33% and 90.67% at 80 and 35 ppm of methanol and petroleum ether extracts, respectively, while pupal mortality recorded 44.44 and 22.48% at 35 and 30 ppm, respectively. Larval duration was recorded at 5.31 and 5.64 days by methanol and petroleum ether extracts at 80 and 35 ppm, respectively. A decrease in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) level and a promotion in Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) level of An. pharoensis 3rd instar larvae were recorded by tested extracts. The petroleum ether extract was more effective against An. pharoensis starved females than methanol extract. Also, tested extracts recorded LC50 of 1988.8, 1365.1, and 11.65, 14.36 µg/mL against Dan. rerio, and Dap. magna, respectively. Conclusions: Using red algae derivatives in An. pharoensis control could reduce costs and environmental impact and be harmless to humans and other non-target organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar energy is one of the main promising clean energy sources in future of the world. The technology of photovoltaic systems (PV) has continuous development with many applications. So, it is generate electricity without dangerous effects in the environment. Today, photovoltaic systems are largely used in rural electrification, and grid connected system water pumping irrigation and remote check point etc. Solar cell performance decreases with increasing temperature, fundamentally owing to increased internal carrier recombination rates, caused by increased carrier concentration. Results obtained showed that from 26.6 to 42.1 % reduction in power when temperature was 47 and 40oC respectively El-Kharga Oasis has hyper-arid climate which characterizes the western desert. El-Kharga oasis climate is continental with very hot summer and extreme daily temperature ranges. July is hottest month, with daily maximum and minimum temperature of about 40.9 and 24.7oC, respectively. The maximum temperature occasionally approaches 50oC ion summer; with January being the coldest month in January. This work aimed to study and overcome the negative effects of climatic factors on the efficiency of solar panel quantities to increase the amount of pumped water to satisfy the growing crops needs. It was carried out at El-Kharga, New Valley Governorate, Egypt, which bounded by long 30 20 and 30 40 E and Lat 25 05 and 25 30 N. To increase the efficiency of photovoltaic module two experiments were conducted: 1-Shading: Five shading treatments were tested including control, black screen sheath of 63% shading; grey screen sheath of 65% shading, black screen sheath of 73% shading and white screen sheath of 65% shading. The highest current and voltage output was from the control, and all other treatments were less than the control. The white 65% came the next after the control. 2- Cooling: In this part, five treatments were investigated namely, control, coaling by water, covering by glass 3 mm thick, Greenhouses effect as covering with glass at 2 cm over the panel and coating with as olive oil. The obtained results showed that was cooling with water was the best treatment may followed coating with olive oil and then the control. The produced energy in will used for pumping irrigation water for growing crops in farms at north El-Kharga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Nasser is situated in an area with a very non-recurring earthquake, and revealed the history of Egypt registered 5000 years ago. After seventeen years of filling the Aswan High Dam reservoir began a long series of earthquakes caused. The main shock, Ms. = 5.6, occurred on November 14, 1981, preceded by several factions, followed by a large number of aftershocks. Thirty-three years later, seismic activity remains, but is much lower in frequency and volume. The aim of this paper is to study the effect of the reservoir on the induced seismic and determine the coordination mechanism of some earthquakes that occurred in the northwestern part of High Dam reservoir. These investigations indicate that seismic activity occurred mainly along the Kalabsha fault and small parallel sectors, and there is a range of activities in the Khor al-Ramla area, about 40 km southwest of the High Dam. From 1982 to the end of 2017, seventy-five earthquakes with a magnitude of 3.5 ≤ M < 4.0 and 13 earthquakes of magnitude greater than or equal to 4.0 have occurred. It also shows that these earthquakes occurred during loading and unloading periods. This shows that the effect of the reservoir itself does not produce earthquakes, and there is no direct relationship between changing the daily rate and the magnitude of earthquakes. So it can't be used as a predictor in the case of the Aswan reservoir, which is a unique reservoir in its behavior. The focused coordination mechanism of four different seismic zones in the west of Lake Nasser shows errors in striking the strike with a simple natural element. The P (pressure) and T (tension) stress axes are trending ESE–WNW and NNE–SSW, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated nutrient management strategies involving chemical and biological fertilizer is a real challenge to stop using the high rates of agrochemicals and to enhance sustainability of crop production. In order to study the effects of biofertilizers (Cerialin and Nitrobein) and chemical nitrogen levels (0, 85,170 and 250 kg N ha-1) on yield and yield attributes of two wheat cultivars (Sakha 94 and Gemmeiza 10), an agricultural experiment in the form of strip-split factorial design with three replications was conducted in Kafr El-Sheikh region, Egypt, in 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 growing seasons. The objective of this study was evaluation of the effects of these fertilizers separately and in integrated forms, and setting out the best fertilizer mixture. The results showed that treatment with biofertilizers and chemical nitrogen increased the growth, yield attributes, biological and grain yield. Both grain and biological yield produced a better result during the combination of nitrogen fertilizer and biofertilizers than using either method alone. Using biofertilizers increased biological yield through increase in number of grains spike-1, number of spikes m-2 and 1000 grain weight, which cause to increase in grain yield with significant changes in harvest index, as well as protein content. We may conclude that using biofertilizers (Cerialin or Nitrobein) and chemical nitrogen fertilizer (170 or 250 kg N ha-1) together had the maximum impact on yield. Then, we can decrease use of chemical fertilizers through using biofertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Closure of the pharyngeal defect after total laryngectomy had been traditionally performed with manual suturing techniques that invert the mucosal edge this technique though effective, yet it is time-consuming. Recently the use of stapling devices to successfully close the pharyngeal defect after total laryngectomy has been advocated to shorten the operative time, especially in the high-risk cancer patients where a prolonged operative time is not preferred. The present study aimed at comparing stapler assisted total laryngectomy to suture closure total laryngectomy in a prospective randomized manner. This is a prospective clinical study conducted on 60 patients undergoing total laryngectomy at Alexandria Main University Hospital, Egypt. Patients with tumor extension to the hypopharynx or base of the tongue were excluded from the study. The surgical time is reduced with shorter hospital stays and no increase in postoperative complications rate. The use of the stapler is technically easy to perform and as equally as effective as the traditional neopharyngeal suturing techniques in patients undergoing total laryngectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focuses on the distribution of natural radionuclides and the determination of radioelement favorability in the Nugrus mylonite rock. The radionuclide contents were measured with a NaI(Tl) detector. The concentrations of U, Th, Ra (in terms of eU), and K in the mylonite studied range from 27 to 247 ppm, from 96 to 377 ppm, from 11 to 166 ppm, and from 1.14 to 3.12%, with the averages of 100 ppm, 201 ppm, 55 ppm, and 2.1%, respectively. The interelement relationships indicate that the radioelement distribution is not only magmatic but also hydrothermal. Variations of migration parameters for uranium indicate fluctuations in physicochemical conditions that lead to U accumulation and leaching processes, which are confirmed by increments and decrements in uranium concentrations. The examined samples demonstrate disequilibrium, with eU/Ra (eU) ranging from 1.32 to 3.26, with an average of 1.95, which suggests uranium addition. Uranium, thorium, and potassium favorability indices of the investigated mylonite rocks indicate moderate favorability of these rocks for uranium and thorium and high favorability for potassium. The F-parameter illustrates the presence of different stages of alterations. Mineralogical investigation indicates the presence of such radioactive minerals as thorite and Uranothorite, of Nb–Ta minerals (columbite and ishikawite), and of zircon and xenotime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is conducted for developing separation of some elements of nuclear interest from zirconium-concentrate explored from Egyptian zircon mineral, using certain cationic exchangers. The main results revealed that Amberlite IR-120 is more efficient than Chelex-100 for separating La and Zr in 0.01 mol. L−1 (various acid, carbonate) from single or binary solution with separation factor (SF) of ∼2.1 × 103 (HCl) > 239 (HNO3) >56 (K2CO3) > 17.5 (HClO4). Separation of La and Zr was largely influenced by acid concentration, equilibration period, and temperature. Thermodynamically, values of Δ G o , Δ H o and Δ S o indicated that retention of the metal ions is disordered and endothermic nature. In a column application, Zr is separately eluted without La; with recoveries reached to 98% for Zr and 50% to 67% for La. The larger negativity of free energy of hydration of Zr (−6950 KJ/mol) that of La (−3418 KJ/mol) confirm that Zr exists as a non-sorptive species; meanwhile La forms adsorptive species onto the column bed resin. As a result, this study can be extended in the future to help exploration of the strategic elements (e.g., Zr, Hf, lanthanides) from their minerals in Egypt. Moreover, developed procedure by Amberlite IR-120 resin can be considered as highly efficient and promising for separation and purification of tri-valence lanthanides (e.g., La3+) and/or actinides (e.g., Am3+) from tetra-valence metal ions such as Zr4+ and Hf4+ or their homologous as Ce4+, Th4+ and Np4+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Microscopic myringoplasty is the most frequently performed procedure for repairing tympanic membrane perforations. The endoscopic transcanal approach bypasses the narrow ear canal segment and provides a wider view. Methods: An open-label randomised clinical trial was conducted on 56 patients with small anterior tympanic membrane perforations. Perforations were repaired with an endoscopic push-through technique (n = 28) or a microscopic underlay technique (n = 28). Follow up was conducted using endoscopic examination and pure tone audiometry three months' post-operatively. Results: Graft success rate was 92.9 per cent in the endoscopic group versus 85.7 per cent in the microscopic group. The corresponding pre-operative mean air–bone gaps were 17.4 dB and 18.5 dB, improving to 6.1 dB and 9.3 dB post-operatively (p > 0.05). Mean air–bone gap closure was 11.4 dB in the endoscopic group and 9.2 dB in the microscopic group (p > 0.05). Mean operative time and estimated blood loss were 37.0 minutes and 29 ml in the endoscopic group, versus 107 minutes and 153 ml in the microscopic group (both p < 0.05). Conclusion: The endoscopic push-through technique for anterior tympanic membrane perforations is as effective as microscopic underlay myringoplasty; furthermore, it is less invasive and takes less operative time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted in order to assess nutritional knowledge and food behavior of osteoporosis among women in Sharkia Governorate, Egypt. Sources of information about osteoporosis and dietary intake of participants were also evaluated. This research was a descriptiveanalytical study. Data was collected using a questionnaire that was distributed to 300 women from Sharkia Governorate (150 healthy women and 150 patients diagnosed with osteoporosis). Results estimated that the most of healthy women (39.33%) were between 24 < 40 years old. While (38.70%) were between 40 - 55 years old in patients. The highest percentage of educational level for healthy women was 44% (secondary school), whereas, in patients was 43.3% (bachelor). The largest proportion of healthy women and patients had family income from 2000 < 4000 LE per month. 66% of healthy women hadn't relative suffering from osteoporosis. 48% of patients had fractions. Also, the results indicated that there were statistically significant differences in healthy women and patients and their age, education, job, marital status, history of osteoporosis in the family, menstruation, fractures, calcium and vitamin D supplements and physical exercises. Television appear to play the main role for osteoporosis information for respondents. The highest percentage of participants had average level of general knowledge, knowledge of rick factors and knowledge of protective factors about osteoporosis. The majority of healthy women and patients (68 and 71.3%), respectively, had average level about food behavior. There were statically significant differences between participants (healthy women and patients) and levels of knowledge about general knowledge, protective factors and total knowledge for osteoporosis. Most of respondents who had average level of knowledge have high education level. Healthy women (30.3%) and patients (45.5%) who had average level of knowledge have fractures and this association is statically significant. The results showed that most of participants who had average level of food behavior, were from average level of total knowledge about osteoporosis and this association is statically significant. The results illustrated that the highest percentage of patients took less than recommended dietary allowance of macronutrients and micronutrients which are important to prevent osteoporosis. It can be concluded that the most of subjects had average level of knowledge and food behavior about osteoporosis, while, low percentage had high level. Therefore, the recommendions are the use of television programs to raise awareness for all people about the prevention of osteoporosis, more effort from doctors and healthcare providers to inform patients about preventing and treating from osteoporosis and attention the government to this subject in its health policies and make more efforts to inform people especially women about osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work was carried out at Ghazala Experimental Farm, Fac. Agric., Zagazig Univ., Egypt, during the two successive winter seasons of 2015/2016 and 2016/2017, to estimates the genetic parameters for Balady cabbage, using North Carolina Mating Design II. Ten selected plants were used for this study (five as males and other five as females) from Balady cabbage population. Results of this study showed insignificant mean squares for male × female interaction for all the studied traits, except that for stem diameter, leaf width, wrapper leaves weight per plant and head height, which were highly significant. Estimations of additive variance (σ2A) were higher than dominance variance (σ2D) for stem diameter, leaf width, head height, head diameter and head weight per plant (yield), indicate the important of additive gene action in the inheritance of these traits. Nevertheless, σ2D was higher than σ2A for stem height from wrapper leaves to head, leaf length, and wrapper leaf number and weight per plant, so that the dominance was played very important role in the inheritance of these traits. The heritability in broad-sense ranged from -4.30% for stem height up to wrapper leaves to 83.80% for leaf width. While, narrow-sense of heritability ranged from -2.10% for stem height up to wrapper leaves to 97.35% for head height. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was carried out at the Experimental Farm, Agriculture Faculty, South Valley University at Qena Governorate, Egypt, during 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 seasons to study the effect of salicylic acid and NPK fertilization on wheat productivity. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) using strip plot arrangement with three replications. The first variable was salicylic acid concentrations which occupied horizontally. While the second one was NPK rates which allocated vertically. The obtained results showed that all studied traits in both seasons were affected significantly by salicylic acid concentrations in favour of 150 ppm concentration as well as by NPK fertilization rates in favour of high rate(125, 45 and 48 kg fed-1 of N, P and K, respectively). Furthermore, wheat plants sprayed by high salicylic acid concentration and subjected to high NPK fertilization rate produced the highest mean values of grain yield (2600 and 2520 kg fed-1 in the first and second seasons, respectively). While, wheat plants sprayed by high salicylic acid concentration and subjected to low NPK fertilization rate gave the maximum mean values of use efficiency for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in both seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work is considered as a first study in Western Egypt to evaluate the effect of honeybee presence on solitary bee species abundance, a case study of four crops in Alexandria Governorate at Al Hawaria region. Our results reported that the full blooming (mid-season) was more attractive to bees than the other blooming periods during different hours especially, at noon hours from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the two types of bees. In general, the visitation rates of insect pollinators were influenced by the blooming period of crops and the hours of the day. The competition between honeybees and solitary bees for floral resources was varied significantly between solitary bee species and from plant to another. However, the visitation rates of solitary bees to flowers of Egyptian clover were reached its peak in all study sites in the absence of honeybees. By analyzing the soil texture of the study area revealed that the soil texture is sandy loam which is most favorable for many ground- nesting bee species. Three different nest types were found in the study region, the first one in ground- nesting represented a nest of the tribe Anthophorinii, the second was in stem nesting bees of Xylocopa pubescens and the third type inside shell of a species of Osmia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of a survey carried out on land gastropods infesting major field,vegetable and fruit crops in 12 villages (localities) representing four districts (counties) of Dakahlia governorate through the seasonal activity period of gastropod species during two successive growing seasons 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 revealed the occurrence of three land snail species and one slug species belonging to order: Stylommatophora. snail species were, the glassy clover snail Monacha cartusiana (Muller) family: Hygromiidae, the brown garden (chocolate-band) snail Eobania vermiculata (Muller) family: Helicidae and the succineid snail Succinea sp., family: Succineidae, while the slug species was Deroceras sp., family: Agriolimacidae. The identified species varied in their incidence according to host plant, locality and season. In this respect, M. cartusiana snail has the upper hand, since it was detected in most of all surveyed localities infesting the majority of examined crops. It was more abundant on field and vegetable crops compared to fruit trees. E. vermiculata was found on all examined fruit crops. It was not detected on any of the studied field or vegetable crops at all surveyed localities. On contrary, the succineid snail Succinea sp. was found on field and vegetable only, it was not observed infesting fruit crops. On the other hand, the slug Deroceras sp. was found in certain localities infesting all examined crops except wheat, broad bean and potato. Population density of M. curtusiana differed from host plant to another and from locality to another. Among field and vegetable crops, Egyptian clover and lettuce gained the highest values while wheat and potato showed the lowest ones. Since, the highest number of this snail on Egyptian clover and lettuce were counted in Borg ElNour village (Aga district) and Batra village (Talkha district) during 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 seasons with values 29.9, 25.6 (21.1, 19.5) and 27.7, 23.2 (24.4, 22.5) snails per 50 x 50cm², respectively. Whereas, other identified gastropod species were found with relatively lower occurrence and population density on the infested crops. The seasonal population behavior of the predominant species, M. cartusiana was monitored on Egyptian clover and wheat during two successive seasons (2019/2020 and 2020/2021). It was found that population density increased during spring months as compared to low or moderate values during autumn and winter months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: TORCH infections during pregnancy significantly impact neonatal and maternal mortality rates worldwide. This study aimed to gather baseline serological data for pregnant women's immunological status to infection and determine if definite TORCH pathogens (cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, and Herpes simplex virus) were associated with Toxoplasma infection, to improve prenatal care and provide appropriate infection control strategies. Methodology: Blood samples were gathered from 210 pregnant women attending Al Zagazig University hospitals from February to May 2023. Samples were examined for specific IgM and IgG antibodies against TORCH pathogens by electrochemiluminescence technique. Results: Regarding TORCH infection, 60 (28.6%) cases were seronegative, while 77 (36.7%), 63 (30.0%), 56 (26.7%), and 15 (7.1%) were positive IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii, cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, and Herpes simplex virus, respectively. There was no estimate for IgM for cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, or Herpes simplex virus, indicating that no primary infection had been detected during the pregnancy. There was a statistically significant association between seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis infections (IgM and IgG) and age group ≤ 25 years, which is the most common childbearing age group. Cytomegalovirus seropositivity was found in those beyond 25 years (P-value 0.001). Antibodies to mono-infections were found in 97/210 (46.2%) subjects. It is substantially higher under-25 years age group, 71/97 (73.2%), P-value of 0.001. 45/210 (21.4%) participants had antibodies to two agents, with no significant difference in the age group over 25 years, 26/45 (57.8%). Antibodies to three agents were assessed in eight instances, all under 25 years. Conclusions: According to our findings, serological evaluation for the TORCH complex in all pregnant women is recommended to determine infection immunity, current immunization regimens, and infection reactivation. Low TORCH antibodies rates amongst pregnant women in Egypt's Sharqia governorate might be an appropriate starting point for prenatal screening initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]