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Background: Nurses occupy a pivotal role in the provision of palliative care, acting as frontline providers who address the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of patients. The complexities inherent in palliative care frequently give rise to ethical dilemmas that significantly impact nurses' decision-making and patient interactions. It is therefore essential to gain an understanding of nurses' perceptions of ethical issues, quality of life, and adherence to patient rights in order to enhance the care delivered in these settings. Aim: This study aims to assess the ethical issues encountered by nurses in palliative care, evaluate their quality of life, and measure their understanding and adherence to patient rights. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among a sample of 85 nurses working in palliative care settings, specifically within the Oncology Department and Pain Clinic at a Specialized Hospital in Egypt. A stratified random sampling technique was employed. The data were collected using standardised questionnaires, including the Ethical Issues Scale (EIS), the Nursing Quality of Life Scale (NQOLS), and the Patient Rights Questionnaire (PRQ). The validity and reliability of these instruments were established prior to the commencement of the study. The collected data were subjected to mean and standard deviation (SD) calculations. Statistical analyses, including the calculation of Pearson correlation coefficients, were conducted. Results: The study sample comprised a diverse cohort of nurses, with a mean age of 40 years. The ethical issues were evaluated, yielding a mean score of 4.03 (SD = 0.74) on the EIS, with the highest score for "Patient Care" (M = 4.2, SD = 0.7). The overall quality of life mean score was 6.75, with the working dimension exhibiting the highest mean score at 7.1. The PRQ results indicated a high level of awareness regarding patient rights, with a total mean score of 49.5 (SD = 6.8). The results of the correlation analysis indicated a moderate positive correlation between ethical issues and patient rights (r = 0.52, p < 0.01), and ethical issues and quality of life (r = 0.45, p < 0.01). Conversely, a weaker correlation was found between quality of life and patient rights (r = 0.40, p < 0.05). Conclusions: The findings elucidate the ethical challenges confronted by nurses in palliative care and their ramifications for the quality of life and adherence to patient rights. It is imperative that nurses engaged in palliative care undergo continuous education and training in order to enhance their ethical decision-making abilities and thereby improve the quality of care they provide. Recommendations: It is imperative that strategies be developed to support nurses in addressing ethical dilemmas, to promote awareness of patient rights, and to enhance their overall quality of life through targeted interventions and resources. Clinical trial: No clinical Trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the detection of antigenically atypical very virulent Infectious bursal disease viruses (vvIBDV) in Egypt in 1999, the country has been experiencing recurrent outbreaks with high mortality rates and typical gross lesions associated with typical vvIBDV. However, a significant change occurred in 2023, marked by a notable increase in reported subclinical IBDV cases. To evaluate the field situation, samples from 21 farms in 2023 and 18 farms from 2021 and 2022, all of which had experienced IBD outbreaks based on clinical diagnosis, were collected, and subjected to VP2-HVR sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all samples collected in 2021 and 2022 clustered with classical virulent strains and vvIBDV. In 2023, one sample clustered with the Egyptian vvIBDV, another with classical virulent IBDV, and the rest with the novel variant IBDV (nVarIBDV) circulating in China. The alignment of deduced amino acid sequences for VP2 showed that all Egyptian classic virulent strains were identical to the Winterfield or Lukert strains, while vvIBDV strains exhibited two out of the three typical residues found in Egyptian vvIBDV, namely Y220F and G254S, but not A321T. Meanwhile, all Egyptian variant strains exhibited typical residues found in nVarIBDV. However, all Egyptian variants showed a mutation at position 321 (321V), which represents the most exposed part of the capsid and is known to have a massive impact on IBDV antigenicity, except for one sample that had 318G instead. This report highlights the emergence of a new variant IBDV in Egypt, clustered with the Chinese new variants, spreading subclinically in broiler farms across a wide geographic area. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS New variant IBDV which emerged in Egypt clustered with Chinese nVarIBDV. nVarIBDV spread subclinically across a wide geographic area. Mutation at 321 represents capsid's most exposed part, a defining feature. Antigenically modified vvIBDV still circulating in Egypt with typical lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity presents significant challenges to sustainable development, particularly in arid regions like Fayoum City, Egypt, which faces particular water challenges due to its unique topography. This study explores the pivotal role of pump stations and wastewater reuse in mitigating water scarcity and promoting sustainable water management practices. Utilizing a comprehensive mixed-method approach, including desk research, field surveys, stakeholder interviews, and integrating the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) into a decisionmaking framework. The study categorizes pump stations into priority ranking groups based on the evaluation of the following criteria: efficiency, operating hours, working unit ratio, and discharge capacity. The investigation reveals that the 72 pump stations in Fayoum City play a vital role in regulating water levels, optimizing distribution, and facilitating the reuse of irrigation wastewater. Despite operational challenges, such as manpower shortages and maintenance issues, these stations are crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity and addressing water scarcity concerns, including the prevention of recurring inundation events like the one in 2012. Moreover, the study underscores the potential of wastewater reuse as a sustainable solution to water scarcity, particularly in meeting agricultural water demands and mitigating water balance issues, such as inundation. Based on the findings, the study proposes actionable recommendations, including upgrading high-priority pump stations, evaluating lower-priority ones, enhancing canal infrastructure, and promoting waterefficient irrigation methods. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the pivotal role of pump stations and wastewater reuse in addressing water scarcity challenges in arid regions. By implementing the proposed recommendations, Fayoum City can optimize its water management practices, ensure water security, and support the long-term development of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trichuris spp. (whipworms) are soil-transmitted helminths distributed worldwide, parasitizing several mammalian hosts such as ruminants, primates, and rodents. Trichuris spp. is one of the most common intestinal parasites affecting both humans and animals, and it can spread directly through the fecal-oral route, resulting in severe illness and financial loss. So, this work aims to detect the frequency of Trichuris spp. in camels in Beheira Governorate, Egypt, and to identify Trichuris spp. through morphometrical studies, molecular analysis, and phylogenetic analysis. Results: A total of 35 dromedaries out of 127 investigated had Trichuris spp. infection, meaning that the overall prevalence was 27.56%. The age of the camel affected the infection rate, older animals (> 5 years) having a higher prevalence of infection (24%) than animals of ages (< 3 years) (20%) than animals of ages (3–5 years) (19.14%). According to season: Trichuris spp. showed a unique pattern in camels in different seasons: summer (31.25%) > autumn (28.13%) > spring (25.8%) > winter (25%) indicating year-round infection. T. globulosa was identified morphometrically from camels in Beheira Governorate, Egypt. The BLAST analysis revealed the presence of T. globulosa isolate from camels using the Genbank database depending on nuclear small subunit ribosomal RNA (18s) and cytochrome b (Cytb) genes. Conclusion: A high prevalence of T. globulosa was found in camels in Beheira Governorate, Egypt. This is the first report to confirm the identification of T. globulosa from camel based on morphometrical studies and molecular and phylogenetic analysis in Egypt. More thorough studies on the incidence, molecular, and genetic analysis of Trichuris spp. in Egypt are required in addition to camel control programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although the efficacy and safety of epidural block (EB) are fairly high, complications such as inadvertent dural puncture may limit its use. Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum block (QLB) is a relatively new regional technique that provides perioperative somatic and visceral analgesia for pediatric patients. This trial compared the quality of pain relief in pediatric patients undergoing abdominal surgery who received either QLB or EB. Methods: Patients were randomly allocated into two equal groups: Group E(n = 29): received EB; Group QL(n = 29): received QLB. Both groups were injected with 0.25% bupivacaine (0.5 ml/kg). Assessment of total analgesia consumption was the primary outcome measure, whereas the secondary outcome measures were assessment of postoperative analgesic effect by Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale (CHEOPS) and time of first analgesic request. Results: Our study showed that the mean total fentanyl consumption was comparable between both groups(38.67 ± 5.02 and 36.47 ± 5.13 µg in the E and QL groups, respectively, P = 0.246). Only five patients did not require rescue analgesia (3 in the E group,2 in the QL group, P = 0.378). The mean duration of analgesia showed no significant difference between the two groups (9.9 ± 1.58 and 11.02 ± 1.74 h in the E and QL groups, respectively, P = 0.212). Evaluation of CHEOPS score values immediately in PACU and for the initial 24 h following operation showed no significant difference between the two study groups(P > 0.05). Conclusion: QLB can achieve analgesic effects comparable to those of EB as a crucial part of multimodal analgesia in children undergoing abdominal surgeries. Clinical trial registration number: PACTR202203906027106. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overuse of antibiotics during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in an attempt to reduce COVID-19 mortality in the short term may have contributed to long-term mortality from antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on AMR in Egypt and map the distribution of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensive drug-resistant (XDR) across Egypt. Through a multicenter cross-sectional study 2430 culture results were collected in 2019 and 2022 pre and post-COVID-19 pandemic in Egypt, including 400 Klebsiella pneumoniae, 760 Escherichia coli, 650 Acinetobacter baumannii, and 620 Methicillin-resistantstaphylococcus aureus (MRSA) culture results. MDR and XDR culture results distribution across Egypt was highlighted through the geographic information system. Mixed effect logistic regression models and sub-group analysis were performed according to the type of specimens to test the impact of COVID-19 on resistance. Adjusted analysis demonstrated K. pneumoniae resistance has increased against quinolones and carbapenems (P < 0.001). Resistance of E. coli has increased significantly against imipenem and meropenem. While E.coli susceptibility has increased to cefoxitin, levofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin. A. baumannii resistance has increased more than double against ceftazidime, cefepime, and piperacillin-tazobactam (P < 0.001). MRSA reserved its susceptibility to vancomycin and linezolid. MDR K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii have increased post-COVID-19 from 67% to 94% and from 79% to 98%, respectively (P < 0.001). XDR K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii have increased from 6% to 46%, and from 47% to 69%, respectively (P < 0.001). COVID-19 has changed the profile of AMR in Egypt so that urgent action is required to mitigate this threat and preserve our capacity to face infections in future decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the epidemiological situation of avian influenza viruses (AIV) and the molecular identification of the different AIV subtypes circulating among chickens and duck farms in South Egypt. A total of 143 samples were collected from chicken and duck farms in Qena (n = 105) and Luxor (n=38) governorates during 2020. The organs and swabs were collected from diseased chickens and healthy ducks. The viruses were isolated in embryonated chicken eggs (ECEs) and their propagation was confirmed by hemagglutination test (AHT) and molecular detection of matrix gene by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). AIV subtypes were identified by RT-PCR and specific primers. Phylogenetic analysis of sequenced partial H5, N2, and N8 genes was performed. The results revealed that 15 AIVs were subtyped to 2 H5N2, 2 H5N8, 8 H5Nx, and 2 H9N2. While an isolate could not be subtyped by used primers. The H5-based evolutionary tree of 4 isolates revealed their categorization with the 2.3.4.4b clade with close relation to H5N8 isolates from Egypt in 2021 and Kazakhstan in 2020. In conclusion, the occurrence of H5 and H9 viruses pays attention to a public health concern. Also, non-identified HxNx reveals a new AIV HA and NA subtype may be present among chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water pollution has been increased by the discharge of several polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons including Benzo (a) pyrene (BaP), which may affect aquatic animal lives and threaten human health. Common sole, Solea solea was selected as a bioindicator benthic fish to monitor pollution from El-Maadeya (one of the industrially polluted areas in Egypt). Concentration of "BaP" in collected samples of water, sediments and some organs of sole was detected using HPLC. A detected level of 21 μg ″BaP″/L was reported in water samples from El-Maadeya. Analysis results of ″BaP″ in El-Maadeya water, sediment, and biota exceeded the permissible limits. In a new trial for water remediation from ″BaP″, chitosan (Cs) was experimentally applied. Moreover, the impact of ″BaP″ alone or in combination with Cs for two weeks on water quality, sole fish brooders and histopathological changes in their ovaries was studied. Fifteen fish/tank were randomly classified into five groups in triplicates exposed to: GI) sea water only, GII) sea water with "DMSO", GIII) 21 μg ″BaP″/L (equivalent to the level detected in El-Maadeya), GIV) 50 μg ″BaP″/L, GVa) 21 μg ″BaP″/L & 0.5 g ″Cs″/L for 24 hrs and GVb) 21 μg ″BaP″/L & 0.5 g ″Cs″/L for one week. Obtained results showed that ″BaP″ accumulated in the liver and ovary of fish resulting in a negative impact on the reproduction due to the alteration of the ovarian architecture, atresia, and gonadosomatic index. Western Blot analysis showed also that ″BaP″ disrupted steroidogenic enzymes, upregulated the expression of Hsp-70, and forced the degradation of ERα. The addition of 0.5 g Cs/L has showed its efficiency against BaP toxicity, since it plays a role in ″BaP″ elimination by fast adsorption from water and sediments in timedependent manner, improved fish health, restored reproductive characteristics, decreased the percentage of atretic oocytes and reduced fish mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: ChatGPT, a recently released chatbot from OpenAI, has found applications in various aspects of life, including academic research. This study investigated the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of researchers towards using ChatGPT and other chatbots in academic research. Methods: A pre-designed, self-administered survey using Google Forms was employed to conduct the study. The questionnaire assessed participants' knowledge of ChatGPT and other chatbots, their awareness of current chatbot and artificial intelligence (AI) applications, and their attitudes towards ChatGPT and its potential research uses. Results: Two hundred researchers participated in the survey. A majority were female (57.5%), and over two-thirds belonged to the medical field (68%). While 67% had heard of ChatGPT, only 11.5% had employed it in their research, primarily for rephrasing paragraphs and finding references. Interestingly, over one-third supported the notion of listing ChatGPT as an author in scientific publications. Concerns emerged regarding AI's potential to automate researcher tasks, particularly in language editing, statistics, and data analysis. Additionally, roughly half expressed ethical concerns about using AI applications in scientific research. Conclusion: The increasing use of chatbots in academic research necessitates thoughtful regulation that balances potential benefits with inherent limitations and potential risks. Chatbots should not be considered authors of scientific publications but rather assistants to researchers during manuscript preparation and review. Researchers should be equipped with proper training to utilize chatbots and other AI tools effectively and ethically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to determine the basement configuration and basement-related structural elements of the Abu Gharadig basin.: We delineated subsurface features that affect the configuration of reservoirs in the study area using an integrated interpretation of potential field and seismic reflection data. The study area lies in the North-Western Desert of Egypt to the east of the Qattara Depression, between latitudes 29° 00' and 30° 00' N and longitudes 28° 00' and 30° 00' E. Gravity data interpretation delineates shallow features, with NNE-SSW as the major trend and NW-SE as the minor trend. Given that the Euler structural index is approximately zero, these trends probably represent major faults with steep dips and large throws, which juxtapose considerable thicknesses of rocks with contrasting magnetization. On the other hand, the most common tectonic trends prevailing in the deeper levels are the NEN-SWS and NW-SE as the major trends and ENE-WSW as a minor trend. At the same time, the dominant tectonic trend from the Euler solution is NNW-SSE as a major trend and NNE -SSW and WNW-ESE as minor trends. The interpretation of magnetic data indicates the study area dissect by different trends where the trends of shallow features are NNW-SSE as a major trend and E-W as a minor trend. On the other hand, the most common tectonic trends prevailing in the deeper levels are the NNE-SSW and WNW-ESE as major trends and E-W, ENE-WSW, NEN-SWS, and NWN-SES as minor trends. At the same time, the dominant tectonic trend from the Euler solution is N-S as a major trend and NW-SE and NE-SW as minor trends. In the study area, the depth to the top of the basement rocks ranges from 1731.7 m to more than 4736.6 m. Main faults only affect the Lower and Upper Cretaceous sequences, according to seismic interpretation, and appear to be in two trends, the NW-SE and NWN-SES. These structural trends affect the configuration of oil reservoirs in the study area. The study area contains valuable reservoirs according to boreholes drilled in the stud area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study explores the UAE's legal framework for the protection of digital applications, examining their compatibility with criminal policy, judicial assessment, and government role. The investigation intricately examines the multifaceted aspects of this protection, including its inherent connection with criminal policy, the scope of judicial discretion regarding electronic evidence, and the pivotal role played by the UAE government in upholding these protective measures. It delineates, assesses practical application, and identifies enforcement entities. The study compares legal systems in Anglo-Saxon countries such as the UK and the USA, as well as in Latin countries such as France and Egypt. This study aims to endeavor to unearth nuanced findings and insightful observations and to strengthen measures to protect digital applications by studying technical aspects, legal implications, and criminal policy implications, and contributing to ongoing discourse on the protection of digital applications. Furthermore, it extends its scope beyond the mere technicalities, suggesting significant recommendations at the end, for the protection of digital applications with the legal spectrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious bursal disease (IBD) is an immunosuppressive disease causing significant damage to the poultry industry worldwide. Its etiological agent is infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), a highly resistant RNA virus whose genetic variability considerably affects disease manifestation, diagnosis and control, primarily pursued by vaccination. In Egypt, very virulent strains (genotype A3B2), responsible for typical IBD signs and lesions and high mortality, have historically prevailed. The present molecular survey, however, suggests that a major epidemiological shift might be occurring in the country. Out of twenty-four samples collected in twelve governorates in 2022–2023, seven tested positive for IBDV. Two of them were A3B2 strains related to other very virulent Egyptian isolates, whereas the remaining five were novel variant IBDVs (A2dB1b), reported for the first time outside of Eastern and Southern Asia. This emerging genotype spawned a large-scale epidemic in China during the 2010s, characterized by subclinical IBD with severe bursal atrophy and immunosuppression. Its spread to Egypt is even more alarming considering that, contrary to circulating IBDVs, the protection conferred by available commercial vaccines appears suboptimal. These findings are therefore crucial for guiding monitoring and control efforts and helping to track the spread of novel variant IBDVs, possibly limiting their impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to assess groundwater resources in Sinai's central area using remote sensing, geoelectric, and well-logging data, utilising techniques for modelling hydrogeological frameworks and evaluating desert regions' groundwater potential. Its utilized satellite image sources, soil maps, and geological maps to map the effects of various factors on groundwater potentiality recharge, dividing it into five zones. Eighteen deep VES stations were used to examine the upper part of the groundwater aquifer in Central Sinai, Egypt, comparing it with available borehole information (Well-1, and JICA-1) to establish subsurface geology and hydro-geology positioning. Borehole data, VES interpretation results, hydro-geophysical maps, and four geoelectrical cross-sections were used to visualize the rearward expansion of eight lithological units, groundwater-bearing sections, and aquifer-filled thicknesses. From interpretation data output reveal three zones with significant recharge and storage potential, including two groundwater aquifers. The shallow aquifer has a saturation thickness of the fractured limestone of 35–250 m, while the deep aquifer Nubian sandstone is detected at depths ranging from 660–1030 m. NW–SE and NE–SW faults likely recharge conduits connecting shallow and deep aquifers, providing sites with acceptable groundwater potential for living, agriculture, and development in Sinai. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal calf diarrhea remains one of the most important problems faced by livestock, causing great economic losses. Fecal samples were collected from 100 diarrheic calves in Al-Fayoum governorate, Egypt during 2021, and 2022, to investigate the prevalence of Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), Salmonella Typhimurium, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Clostridium perfringens, bovine rotavirus, bovine coronavirus, and Cryptosporidium parvum which are the major enteropathogens associated with neonatal calf diarrhea, the prevalence of enteropathogens were 58%, 29%, 34%, 14%, 35%, 8%, and 65% respectively. Molecular characterization was performed to confirm the E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella Typhimurium, Clostridium perfringens, and Cryptosporidium isolates and to detect some virulent genes associated with their pathogenicity. All the bacterial isolates gave a clear band with 16S rRNA. In E. coli, virulent genes (K99, F41, phoA) were detected, also; Salmonella strains were found positive for the invA and sopB gene, while all Clostridium perfringens strains were tested positive for Alpha and Beta toxin but negative for Epsilon toxin. On the other hand, all Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were tested positive with iutA and fimH genes. Also, the in-vitro antibiotic sensitivity testing of bacterial isolates was applied. Statistical analysis was carried out to determine the potential influence of age factor on the reported prevalence of concurrent infections, which revealed that the animals age significantly affected the infection prevalence in all pathogens inversely excepts those infected by Klebsiella was affected by age directly, and those infected by E. coli, or Cryptosporidium, were not affected by age at all. Good hygienic management and good vaccination program are very important to overcome acute diarrhea in neonate calves and the misuse of antibiotic revealed the presence of multidrug resistance isolates of some enteropathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to compare the perceptions of Egyptian and US students on global issues. The authors developed a survey of global issues and administered it to sample of 321 Geography students in the USA and Egypt. The survey tapped five issues: global citizenship, cultural diversity, global conflicts, nuclear arms race, and global warming. The results showed that there were significant differences in Egyptian and US students' perception of each of the global issues.

Magnetic methods of exploration have proved to be efficient and have potential in the gold mineralization industry. New magnetic processing technologies aid in improving the process of interpretation and gold opportunity identification. In this work, we show the possible application of combined digital magnetic filters to explore new gold mineralization localities with application to a well-known Au mineralization zone. Um Garayat (UG) region, southeastern desert, Egypt, is an ancient example of a potential area for gold mining. Modern analysis showed that other types of mineral concentrations are present. So, exploiting the magnetic signature of the area for future investment is of great interest. The old UG gold mine is characterized by volcanic and tectonic features such as faulting and folding that affect the arc sedimentary rock sequence of repeated deformation stages. A thorough geophysical effort has been carried out around the old gold mine in the UG area to explore the extension of mineralized ore deposits. A detailed geophysical survey using magnetics was carried out in this study together with the available aeromagnetic data. Field data sets on appropriate sites were measured, processed, and evaluated by suitable software. High magnetic anomalies were detected based on grid filter analysis and contact occurrence maps as marked as possible ore deposits after satisfying the geologic conditions for gold formation. An integrated understanding of attained results revealed that the new possible ore deposits are related directly to fault and fracture zones in the shape of lenses of variable thickness in this zone. Results show that newly detected mineral occurrences in the UG area are also controlled by major faults and hydrothermal solution enrichment along fault zones at a depth ranging from 20 to 70 m. Favorable fault/joint mineralized places were located. The relationship between the Au-quartz vein's strike direction compared with magnetic anomaly lineament analysis was studied. Search for new sources of Au and other mineral deposits in addition to quartz veins is needed as pockets of accumulated mineral-rich rock fragments are deposited in drainage wadis and fault/joint zones because of hydrothermal solution enrichment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the continuity of gold mining work since Pharaonic times till today, Wadi Haimur is still promised source for gold. Wadi Haimur is located in west Allaqi-Heinai-Suture (AHS), south Eastern Desert of Egypt. Gold mineralization is mainly confined within quartz-carbonate and sulphide-bearing quartz veins within sheared, altered rocks, while listvenitization plays a significant role in gold concentration along the Haimur area. Therefore, critical analyses of remote sensing data were applied to map alteration zones and delineate listvenites. Spatially enhanced images were processed to trace lineaments and weakness zones which may represent pathways of mineralized, ascended hydrothermal fluids. Ground geophysical, magnetic and geoelectric surveys were performed to study the depth-extension of mineralized bodies in the vicinity of the historical mines within Wadi Haimur. Interpretation of land-magnetic data indicates the presence of mineralized veins associated with narrow shear zones. Derivatives and high-pass filters were utilized to map shallow mineralized sources and deduce their trends. Upward continuation and low-pass filters were used to detect the deep sources. Depths to magnetic bodies were estimated using Power-Spectrum, Euler and inversion of single anomalies. Geochemical sampling was performed to test the results. According to the remarkable variation in resistivity and chargeability values of resistivity and induced-polarization tomography profiles, the subsurface lithology was classified and probable mineralized zones within the subsurface were detected. Encouraging results from regolith, trenching, rock-chip sampling and Reverse-Circulation (RC) drilling indicated the extension of auriferous anomalies within the bedrock. Good correlation of RCholes auriferous anomalies depths and deduced depths from magnetic interpretation was revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms are naturally associated with plants in several ways. The study was conducted to isolate bacteria endophytes from the internal cells of roots, stems, leaves, and capitula of Senecio glaucus collected from 2 diverse (coastal and desert) habitats in Egypt. A total of 10 endophytic bacteria were obtained from the isolation; the highest diversity of bacterial endophytes was observed in desert samples roots and leaves. The isolates were recognized based on morphology, biochemical and 16S rRNA sequence genes. All isolates indicated the ability for enzyme production as amylase, cellulase, lipase, catalase, and protease in their biochemical descriptions; analyses also gave a significant indication of their potential to produce plant growth hormones, as their ability to dissolve Phosphate. In the world and Egypt, we are the first to report bacterial endophytes isolated from Senecio glaucus. This study could aid in determining the role of endophytic bacteria in severe habitats, as well as their potential applications in medicine, bioremediation, agriculture, and industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sheds light on the significance of enhancing sustainable funding for water research and addressing water quality challenges in agricultural practices through economic analysis in Egypt. The study employed a survey questionnaire targeting researchers from various disciplines. The results revealed a gender distribution of approximately 44.7% female and 55.3% male participants. The study also disclosed university participation percentages, with the University of Alexandria having the highest at 43.5%, followed by Beni Suef University at 19.4%, Zagazig University at 17.6%, and Aswan University at 11.8%. The results further indicated the diversity of researchers' specializations. Regarding funding sources, the study found that around 30% of researchers obtained external funding for their research projects. Funding sources included international donors (46.2%), governmental grants (30.8%), and the private sector (23.1%). The results also highlighted challenges faced by researchers in obtaining funding, and affirmed that 75% of projects made progress due to funding, while 25% were concluded upon achieving financial objectives. A field study was conducted in the Moghra and Wadi Natron regions to measure the impact of salinity (water quality) on agricultural productivity. The outcomes underscored the urgent need for water research funding, as it indirectly affects the increase in agricultural productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cesarean Section (CS) is associated with an increased risk of hemorrhage. Many drugs are used to decrease this risk. We aim to compare the combination of ethamsylate and tranexamic acid, oxytocin, and placebo in women undergoing CS. Methods: We conducted a double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial between October and December 2020 in four university hospitals in Egypt. The study included all pregnant women in labor without any complications who accepted to participate in the study between October and December 2020. The participants were divided into three groups. The subjects were randomly allocated to receive either oxytocin (30 IU in 500 ml normal saline during cesarean section), combined one gram of tranexamic acid with 250 mg of ethamsylate once before skin incision, or distilled water. Our main outcome was the amount of blood loss during the operation. The secondary outcomes were the need for blood transfusion, hemoglobin and hematocrit changes, hospital stay, operative complications, and the need for a hysterectomy. The one-way ANCOVA test was used to compare the quantitative variables between the three groups while the Chi-square test was used to compare the qualitative variables. Post hoc analysis then was performed to compare the difference between every two groups regarding the quantitative variables. Results: Our study included 300 patients who were divided equally into three groups. Tranexamic acid with ethamsylate showed the least intra-operative blood loss (605.34 ± 158.8 ml) compared to oxytocin (625.26 ± 144.06) and placebo (669.73 ± 170.69), P = 0.015. In post hoc analysis, only tranexamic acid with ethamsylate was effective in decreasing the blood loss compared to placebo (P = 0.013); however, oxytocin did not reduce blood loss compared to saline (P = 0.211) nor to tranexamic acid with ethamsylate (P = 1). Other outcomes and CS complications showed no significant difference between the three groups except for post-operative thrombosis which was significantly higher in the tranexamic and ethamsylate group, P < 0.00001 and the need for a hysterectomy which was significantly increased in the placebo group, P = 0.017. Conclusion: The combination of tranexamic acid and ethamsylate was significantly associated with the least amount of blood loss. However, in pairwise comparisons, only tranexamic acid with ethamsylate was significantly better than saline but not with oxytocin. Both oxytocin and tranexamic acid with ethamsylate were equally effective in reducing intra-operative blood loss and the risk of hysterectomy; however, tranexamic acid with ethamsylate increased the risk of thrombotic events. Further research with a larger number of participants is needed. Trial registration: The study was registered on Pan African Clinical Trials Registry with the following number: PACTR202009736186159 and was approved on 04/09/2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Recently, renewable energy resources (RESs) have been utilized to supply electricity to remote areas, instead of the conventional methods of electrical energy production. In this paper, the optimal design of a standalone hybrid RES comprising photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine (WT), and biomass sources as well as an energy storage system, such as a hydro-pumped storage system, is studied. The problem of the optimal sizing of the generating units in the proposed energy system is formulated as an optimization problem and the algorithms heap-based optimizer (HBO), grey wolf optimizer (GWO), and particle swarm optimization (PSO) are applied to achieve the optimal sizing of each component of the proposed grid-independent hybrid system. The optimization problem is formulated depending on the real-time meteorological data of the Ataka region on the Red Sea in Egypt. The main goal of the optimization process is to minimize the cost of energy (COE) and the loss of power supply probability (LPSP), while satisfying the constraints of system operation. The results clarify that the HBO algorithm succeeded in obtaining the best design for the selected RE system with the minimum COE of 0.2750 USD/kWh and a net present cost (NPC) of USD 8,055,051. So, the HBO algorithm has the most promising performance over the GWO algorithm in addressing this optimization problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The past decade witnessed the initiation and boom of the Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) activities in the hyper-arid southern Egypt. The ores are mined in the Eastern Desert and then transported to the densely populated farming communities in the Nile Valley, where the river provides the water resources needed for ore processing. In search for economic benefits, the poorly educated farmers with limited technical resources transformed their cultivated lands into ASGM operations, exposing themselves, their families, the residents, and the Nile ecosystems to several environmental and occupational health problems. Using integrated remote sensing, field, geochemical, and isotopic analyses, we report the first inventory of ASGM-related total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) levels in tailings, amalgamation-tailing ponds, and surface and groundwater with emphasis on the Edfu city and its surroundings. The field and remote sensing-based mapping of ASGM activities reveals clustering around the Nile waterways and suggests interaction of Hg contamination sources with their surrounding receptors. Common ASGM practices include release of contaminated water from unlined amalgamation-tailing ponds into irrigation and drainage canals, and spreading of tailings over cultivated soils. In a short period (10 years), the released Hg contaminated multiple media, including the surface water, the shallow and deep aquifers, and possibly the soil, crops, and livestock. THg levels in amalgamation-tailing ponds (1200–8470 ng/L) are fourfold higher than US EPA and eightfold the WHO thresholds. The contaminated waters released from amalgamation-tailing ponds raised THg levels in surface water (irrigation canals: 50–100 ng/L; drainage canals: THg: > 200 ng/L) and groundwater (shallow and deep aquifers: 80–500 ng/L). Our findings highlight the need to extend the adopted approach to cover the entire length of the Nile River and its valley and the importance of conducting awareness campaigns to educate residents and health care providers about potential ASGM-related environmental and health hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial interactions are frequently categorized according to how they affect each population in a binary system. We aimed to determine the interaction between P . aeruginosa, S . aureus, and E . coli in-vitro. In this experimental hospitalized patients' sputum, urine, and blood samples were used to collect a total of 90 clinical isolates for the study in Damanhour Medical National Institute, Behira, Egypt, followed by accurate identification and testing for antibiotic sensitivity. To examine the effect of the supernatant of P. aeruginosa on S. aureus and E. coli determined MIC using broth microdilution method. We also measured the activity of lasA protease by assessing the S. aureus cell lysis potential of P. aeruginosa culture supernatants. Extraction of pyocyanin was made to determine the change in the cell nature of S. aureus upon exposure to pyocyanin by using a scanning electron microscope and the shape of colonies on the culture media was determined. Finally, we detect lasA, operon phz, phzM, phzS and rhlAB genes for P. aeruginosa. P. aeruginosa showed a great impact on S. aureus isolates resistant to different antibiotics as it facilitates their killing and may drive the normal colonies of S. aureus into SCVs. The ability to form biofilm by S. aureus and E. coli decreased in the presence of Pseudomonas supernatant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess the groundwater aquifer and defined the quality of water in the Gulf of Suez region. Hydrochemical and electrical resistivity techniques have been used for evaluating an aquifer, including its extension and quality, in the western Al Ain Sokhna area, Gulf of Suez. This study collected 16 groundwater samples from wells tapping the upper Miocene aquifer. Laboratory tests, including the estimation of electrical conductivity (E.C.), pH, total dissolved solids (TDS) and major ions such as Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, CO32-, HCO33-, SO42- and Cl-, were conducted. Most water samples belonged to the category of permissible water (TDS 500-1500 ppm) which represented 62.5% and brackish water which represented 37.5%. A total of 47 vertical electrical sounding stations were measured using the Schlumberger array of AB/2 up to 1500 m to detect the subsurface geologic section and delineate water-bearing layers. The results of geoelectrical interpretation illustrated that the subsurface section has five geoelectrical layers. The third layer represents the freshwater aquifer, and the fourth layer represents the brackish water aquifer. The upper Miocene aquifer represents the first aquifer with fresh groundwater of resistivities ranging from 14.7 to 100 X.m and thickness ranging between 28.4 and 86 m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Mariout is Egypt's degraded coastal marine habitat that encompasses a variety of wastes. The biodiversity and hard environmental conditions allow the co-existence of organisms with high resistance and rich metabolism, making them potential candidates for screening and isolating novel microbial strains. A bacterial isolate (BF202) cultured from the marine sediments of Alexandria's Mariout Lake (Egypt) was tested for its antimicrobial and anticancer potential. The phylogenetic analysis of the isolated strain's 16S rDNA and gyrB revealed that BF202 belongs to Brevibacillus laterosporus (B. laterosporus). Antibiosis of B. laterosporus was confirmed against microbial pathogens including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella typhi, and Staphylococcus aureus. The highest antibacterial activity was detected on glucose peptone medium after 18 h of incubation at 35 °C, and at pH of 7.0 in the presence of mannose and ammonium carbonate as carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. The cytotoxicity of the methanolic extract against breast cancer (MCF-7) and normal Vero cell lines, using the MTT test, revealed IC50 values of 7.93 and 23.79 µg/mL, respectively. To identify apoptotic and necrotic cells, a flow cytometric analysis using annexin V-FITC/PI dual-labeling was utilized and recorded a higher number of necrotic cells compared to apoptotic ones. Similarly, the cell cycle S-phase arrest was reported. The LC-MS-MS investigation of B. laterosporus extract and the molecular networking database analysis demonstrated five strategic diketopiperazine compounds with antimicrobial and anticancer activities. Taken together, this research shows that the crude extract of B. laterosporus might be an effective agent against drug-resistant bacteria and malignant disorders due to its richness in diketopiperazines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater is an important factor in establishing new urban communities, especially in coastal arid and semi-arid regions. Egypt is one of the world's driest countries, with hyper-arid territory accounting for 86% of the total area and arid and semi-arid terrain accounting for the rest. The present work aims to demonstrate the powerful integration of geophysical techniques to assess groundwater potentiality and suitability in Gara Oasis (GO), which describes a good example of Egypt's strategic southern extension of its arid north-western coast. Geophysical methods, including electrical resistivity and aeromagnetics, were used to evaluate groundwater resources. The study region reduced to pole total magnetic intensity map is subjected to digital filters that include derivatives, analytic signal, and tilt angle. The possible structures controlling the shallow and deep aquifers are delineated and integrated with geoelectric results. Moreover, two magnetic tomography sections are constructed to show the subsurface distribution of magnetic susceptibilities and formation boundaries. Ten vertical electric soundings (VESs) are measured and used in this study to construct four geoelectrical cross-sections. According to the results, Gara's commonly calculated subsurface resistivity model comprises six major resistivity layers. The 5th layer, in particular, is composed of Fractured dolomitic Limestone and represents a possible promising shallow aquifer. Moreover, as evidenced by various magnetic data filters, the shallow (Miocene carbonate) and deep (Nubian sandstone) aquifers are structurally controlled and regulated by a system of faults or contacts. These contacts trends NW-SE, E-W, and NE-SW as common trends emerged from the total derivative and tilt maps. Results suggest that the central part (N-S zone) together with the western side of Gara, have the most notable aquifer possibility demanded future improvement strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The associated species to Senecio glaucus in the newly reclaimed desert near to Wadi El-Assiuty of the Eastern Desert at Assiut Governorate, Egypt were investigated over two years (2018 and 2019). The allelopathic potential of S. glaucus against two crop plants (Triticum aestivum and Eruca sativa) was also evaluated. Floristically, 65 species within 59 genera and 22 families were recorded (21 perennials and 44 annuals). Four families Asteraceae, Poaceae, Brassicaceae and Fabaceae captured about 54% of this flora. Therophytes are the predominant life form followed by phanerophytes. Chorological analysis revealed that cosmopolitan and Saharo-Arabian elements constitute the main bulk of the total flora of the studied area. Cluster analysis yielded four distinct groups. Stands of group A characterized by the absence of S. glaucus and highest species diversity. Stands of group B, C and D included the associated species of S. glaucus and characterized by the dominance of cosmopolitans, grasses and salt tolerant species. The ordination techniques revealed the significant difference between group A and the others and showed the strong correlation between its flora with organic matter. The other three groups were highly correlated with coarse soil texture and total salts. Thirteen species were absent from stands of groups B, C and D in which S. glaucus was dominant. Phytochemical analysis of S. glaucus showed the prevalence of total phenolics and flavonoids in its shoots, while terpenoids were the highest in its flowers. All fractions of the plant components completely prevented germination of E. sativa seeds but exerted different magnitude of inhibition on germination of T. aestivum caryopses (especially with MeOH, capitula and shoot extracts). Estimation of phytotoxicity revealed that aqueous, ethyl acetate and capitula extracts significantly inhibited the germination of wheat caryopses and reduced the elongation rates of hypocotyl and epicotyl, and hence the whole length of seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the literature, there is a scarcity of greener analytical approaches for colchicine (CLH) analysis. As a result, efforts were made in this study to develop and validate a greener reversed-phase high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) technique for CLH analysis in traditional extracts (TE) and ultrasonication-based extracts (UBE) of commercial Unani formulations, commercial allopathic formulations, and Colchicum autumnale Pleniflorum (L.) obtained from Egypt and India. This new technique was compared to the regular normal-phase HPTLC method. The greenness profile of both methods was estimated using the Analytical GREENness (AGREE) approach. In the 100–600 and 25–1200 ng/band ranges, regular and greener HPTLC procedures were linear for CLH analysis, respectively. For CLH analysis, the greener HPTLC method was more sensitive, accurate, precise, and robust than the regular HPTLC method. For CLH analysis in TE and UBE of commercial Unani formulations, commercial allopathic formulations, and C. autumnale obtained from Egypt and India, the greener HPTLC method was superior in terms of CLH content compared to the regular HPTLC method. In addition, the UBE procedure was superior to the TE procedure for both methods. The AGREE scores for regular and greener reversed-phase HPTLC methods were found to be 0.46 and 0.75, respectively. The AGREE results showed excellent greener profile of the greener HPTLC method over the regular HPTLC technique. Based on several validation criteria and pharmaceutical assay findings, the greener HPTLC method is regarded as superior to the regular HPTLC approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global spread of avian influenza virus (AIV) of clade 2.3.4.4b since 2016 has caused severe losses in wild birds and poultry and has posed a risk for the infection of mammals including humans. The vaccination of poultry has been used to limit the spread of the virus and mitigate its socioeconomic impact. Here, we describe H5N8 epidemics in chickens, turkeys and ducks from different localities in Egypt from 2019 to 2021. About 41.7% (n = 88/211) flocks were tested positive by RT-qPCR for H5N8 viruses with prevalence rates of 45.1% (n = 65/144) and 34.3% (n = 23/67) in vaccinated and non-vaccinated flocks, respectively. A sequence analysis of the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase genes indicated not only the multiple introduction events of H5N8 viruses in Egypt but also the establishment of endemic viruses in commercial poultry in 2020/2021. The recent H5N8 viruses in poultry in Egypt are genetically distinct from the majority of licensed vaccines used in the field. Together, our findings indicate that poultry in Egypt is an endemic center for clade 2.3.4.4b in the Middle East. The efficiency of current vaccines should be regularly evaluated and updated to fully protect poultry flocks in Egypt against H5N8 viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adherence of patients with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) to Hemodialysis (HD), prescribed medications, diet and fluid restrictions is essential to get the desirable outcome and prevent complications. During COVID-19 pandemic, ESRD patients became more concerned with attending the HD sessions and following the protective measures because of the potential for increased susceptibility to COVID-19. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the pandemic on patients' adherence to HD and medical regimens.Methods: Two hundred five ESRD patients on HD were interviewed with the ESRD Adherence Questionnaire (ESRD-AQ) and the Fear-of-COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S). Clinical and laboratory correlates of adherence were retrieved from patients' records.Results: Self-reported adherence to HD showed that 19.5% were not adherent to HD during the pandemic compared to 11.7% before the pandemic (p < 0.001), with a significant agreement with the actual attendance of HD sessions (Kappa = 0.733, p < 0.001). Twenty-five patients (12.2%) had a history of COVID-19. The FCV-19S had a mean score of 18.8 and showed significant positive correlations with the pre-dialysis phosphorus and potassium. Multivariate analysis showed that the main predictors of non-adherence were the history of COVID-19, understanding and perception scores, and the Fear-of-COVID score.Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected the adherence of ESRD patients to HD and medical regimen. Strategies to mitigate patients' fears of COVID-19 and improve their understanding and perceptions of adherence to HD and medical regimen should be adopted in HD centers during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Most people in Matrouh Governorate consume camel milk as a treatment for many diseases in a raw state to obtain nutritive value. Raw dromedary camel milk can be contaminated by Escherichia coli through fecal matter at any point of milk handling; therefore, it may lose its value and safety specifications. This survey aimed to estimate the incidence of E. coli in fresh camel milk. Materials and Methods: 100 fresh camel milk samples (50 from markets and 50 from farms) were randomly collected from different districts in Matrouh Governorate, Egypt, over 4 months for the detection of E. coli incidence through conventional bacterial isolation, molecular investigation, and gene sequencing. Results: The prevalence rates of E. coli in the examined market and farm raw camel milk based on conventional methods were 24% and 8%, respectively, while those by molecular identification using phoA as an E. coli determinate gene were 4% and 6%, respectively. Moreover, E. coli phoA gene phylogenetic analysis revealed high sequence similarity to E. coli strain CP033158.1 in India and E. coli strain CP047594.1 in China. Antibiotic sensitivity of E. coli isolates showed high suscep- tibility to norfloxacin (10 µg) and cefoperazone (75 µg). On the other hand, high resistance was found in rifamycin (30 µg) and cefoxitin (30 µg). Conclusion: The results indicate that market camel milk is more contaminated than the farms' own. Additionally, antibiotic resistance is increasing due to antibiotic abuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an analysis and optimization of an isolated hybrid renewable power system to operate in the Alrashda village in the Dakhla Oasis, which is situated in the New Valley Governorate in Egypt. The proposed hybrid system is designed to integrate a biomass system with a photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine (WT) and battery storage system (Bat). Four different cases are proposed and compared for analyzing and optimizing. The first case is a configuration of PV and WT with a biomass system and battery bank. The second case is the integration of PV with a biomass system and battery bank. The third case is WT integrated with biomass and a battery bank, and the fourth case is a conventional PV, WT, and battery bank as the main storage unit. The optimization is designed to reduce component oversizing and ensure the dependable control of power supplies with the objective function of reducing the levelized cost of energy and loss of power supply probability. Four optimization algorithms, namely Heap-based optimizer (HBO), Franklin's and Coulomb's algorithm (CFA), the Sooty Tern Optimization Algorithm (STOA), and Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) are utilized and compared with each other to ensure that all load demand is met at the lowest energy cost (COE) for the proposed hybrid system. The obtained results revealed that the HBO has achieved the best optimal solution for the suggested hybrid system for case one and two, with the minimum COE 0.121171 and 0.1311804 $/kWh, respectively, and with net present cost ( NPC ) of $3,559,143 and $3,853,160, respectively. Conversely, STOA has achieved the best optimal solution for case three and four, with a COE of 0.105673 and 0.332497 $/kWh, and an NPC of $3,103,938 and $9,766,441, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Plant Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Avian Diseases is the property of American Association of Avian Pathologists, Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Three geophysical techniques such as resistivity, seismic refraction, and GPR have been applied to delineate the depth to the groundwater surface, subsurface stratigraphy and subsurface structures which control the configuration and distribution of the groundwater aquifer. Five vertical electrical sounding (VES) were measured by using Syscal-R2 instrument of electrode separation ranging from AB/2 = 1–500 m to reach depth of investigation about 150 m. The results of quantitative interpretation of the VES data indicate that the subsurface sequence composed of six geoelectric units; the first unit is characterized by resistivity values up to 2007 Ohm.m corresponding to sand & gravel and thickness up to 1.2 m. The second geoelectric unit is corresponding to sandy clay which exhibits resistivity up to 235 Ohm.m and depth up to 1.2 m. The third geoelectric unit is characterized by resistivity values up to 1483 Ohm.m corresponding to dry sand which of depth up to 2.6 m. The fourth geoelectrical unit consists of sand saturated with ground water and exhibits resistivity values ranging from 20.2 to 52.9 Ohm.m and depth ranging from 7 to 16.8 m. The fifth geoelectrical unit reveals resistivity values ranging from 7 to 32.6 Ohm.m and consists of sandy clay saturated with groundwater of depth up to 111 m overlaying the sixth unit which reached to depth up to 165 m and characterized by resistivity values ranging from 54 to 91 Ohm.m corresponding to sandstone saturated with ground water. Five shallow seismic refraction spreads of geophone spacing 4 m were measured to investigate the subsurface sequence, where the results of interpretation indicate that the subsurface section consists of three seismic layers; the first layer is unsaturated overburden with seismic velocity range from 280 to 770 m/s and thickness reach about 6 m. The second layer is sand saturated with ground water with velocity range from 760 to 1300 m/s and maximum thickness of about 7 m overlaying the third layer reached to depth up to 24 m and corresponding sandy clay saturated with groundwater with seismic velocity range from 1130 to 2260 m/s. Five GPR profiles are measured using MALA RAMAC GPR System with a Rough Terrain Antenna (RTA) system of central frequency of 100 MHz. The interpretation of GPR data indicate that the expected water table ranging from 8 m to 11 m in the study area. Interpretation of the obtained results and correlation with the available geological and different geophysical data revealed that, the depth to the groundwater table of the investigated area ranges between 7 and 16.8 m. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simile (tashbīh), which means likening something to something else through a preposition because of their common feature, has an important place in the science of rhetoric. The simile has an important mission, especially in expressing the feelings and thoughts of the literati. There are four elements of the simile, namely mushabbah (resembling), mushabbah bih (likened), wajh al-shabah (simile direction), and adāt al-tashbīh (simile preposition). In addition, there is more than one type of simile. One of them is the representational simile. Representational simile is also different from other simile types. In this type of simile, there is an analogy of the situation to the situation. The simile direction consists of more than one element and a shape (imagination). In this article, we will examine the examples of representational simile in al-Nazarāt written by Mustafā Lutfī al-Manfalūtī (1876- 1924), one of the leading writers in Egypt. We will examine these examples in terms of mushabbah, mushabbah bih, adāt al-tashbīh and wajh al-shabah and try to determine for what purposes Manfalūtī used representational similes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was performed to determine the prevalence and to identify precisely Toxocara spp., which infects feral cats in Alexandria, Egypt based on morphological and molecular approaches. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on 100 feral cats trapped from different areas of Alexandria during 2018. Adult male and female worms were recovered from small intestinal contents after euthanasia and dissection of cats. Distinct morphological features were initially determined using available keys, and then after amplification and sequencing of the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 (nad1) gene was carried out and phylogenetic trees were constructed. Results: Forty out of 100 cats were infected with Toxocara spp. Intensity of infection ranged from 1 to 9 worms/cat, with a mean of 2.27±1.6. All isolates were confirmed as T. cati based on morphological features and the sequence of nad1 gene. Results of the current study clearly show that Egyptian T. cati isolate examined herein is genetically similar to those recorded in other countries. Conclusion: The current work revealed high prevalence of T. cati in feral cats in the study area. This is the first genetic study that confirms T. cati from feral cats in Egypt. In addition, it demonstrated the suitability and need of genetic markers such as nad1 for identification of Toxocara spp. Furthermore highlights the public health importance of T. cati in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Collection and storage of biospecimens and data for biobanking raise many ethical concerns. Stakeholders' opinions about these ethical issues are important since they can help in the development of ethical guidelines to govern biobanking activities. Physicians are among the important stakeholders since they contact potential participants and could be biobank users. The goal of this study is to evaluate the perceptions and attitude of Egyptian physicians towards ethical issues in biobanking. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was designed and distributed with the target group between November 2019 and January 2020. Results: The questionnaire was completed by 223 physicians. While 65.5% reported hearing the term "Biobanking" before, 45.7% knew that there are biobanks in Egypt. Participants had a general positive attitude towards the value of biobanks in research. About 73% agreed that biobanks can share biospecimens with international research organizations, but only 42.6% supported collaboration with pharmaceutical companies, and 44% agreed to the use of user fees by biobanks. About 48% supported the use of broad consent in biobanks, and 73.1% believed that donors of biospecimens should be informed about results of research performed on their biospecimens. Conclusion: Although many Egyptian physicians heard about biobanking, they had limited knowledge about the existence of biobanks in Egypt. They had concerns about commercialization, use of broad consent and user fees. A knowledge gap exists among these stakeholders, which should be covered by different educational activities. Community discussions should start to reach consensus about the issues of commercialization and return of research results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the protective efficiency of different vaccines and vaccination programs against Newcastle disease virus (NDV) in chickens, in the field and the laboratory. In the field, three commercial chicken farms (LA, LB, and QC) used different types of live vaccines and vaccination programs via drinking water (DW) were serologically estimated by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assay to detect the level of circulating antibodies against NDV. The laboratory study was carried out to assess whether the types of vaccine and their route of administration influence the HI level and viral shedding. Chicken groups (G1-G5) except for the control were challenged with velogenic NDV genotype VIIj circulating among vaccinated chickens in Egypt. The protection efficiency was evaluated by HI test pre-and post-challenge, and the virus shedding post-challenge was quantitated by real-time RT-PCR. The results of the field study indicated that although LA and QC farms showed clinical signs accompanied with high mortality after the 2nd (HI=22.1) and 3rd (HI=23.2) vaccination doses, respectively, and velogenic NDV destroyed chickens in these farms, the LB farm showed no deaths with apparently healthy birds (HI=23.3). In the laboratory inactivated and alternative vaccinations have the highest protection HI titer with no virus shedding while live vaccination either in DW or eye drops showed low protection and the virus was detected in chickens from the DW live vaccinated group. In conclusion, the currently used in field vaccination programs and their routes of administration should be reconsidered to combat NDV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain samples were collected from 33 animals of different species, including buffalo, cattle, dog, donkey, fox and wolf, that had been suspected to be infected by rabies virus (RABV) in different geographical regions of Aswan and Luxor governorates in Egypt. The samples were submitted for histopathological examination and the presence of the nucleic acid and antigens of RABV was tested by RT-PCR and indirect fluorescent antibody technique (IFAT), respectively. Sixteen samples were found positive by all the three examinations. Three samples were selected for further study from animals in which the highest virus loads were detected. The partial sequence of the RABV N gene was determined and analysed from the samples of a buffalo, a cow and a donkey. The viruses in the samples were found to share 95–98% and 95–97% nucleotide and amino acid sequence identities, respectively. In comparison to reference sequences, a few amino acid substitutions occurred in the N protein antigenic sites I and IV in the immunodominant epitopes of the viruses detected in the cow and the donkey but not in the one from the buffalo. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the RABVs sequenced from the samples belonged to genotype 1, Africa-4 clade, and formed two distinct sub-clades within the Egyptian clade. These findings indicate the circulation of RABV among livestock animals in the southern part of Egypt and raise public health concerns. The amino acid changes detected in this work may contribute to the antigenic diversification of RABVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper mainly focuses on the optimal design of a grid-dependent and off-grid hybrid renewable energy system (RES). This system consists of Photovoltaic (PV), Wind Turbine (WT) as well as Fuel Cell (FC) with hydrogen gas tank for storing the energy in the chemical form. The optimal components sizes of the proposed hybrid generating system are achieved using a novel metaheuristic optimization technique. This optimization technique, called Improved Artificial Ecosystem Optimization (IAEO), is proposed for enhancing the performance of the conventional Artificial Ecosystem Optimization (AEO) algorithm. The IAEO improves the convergence trends of the original AEO, gives the best minimum objective function, reaches the optimal solution after a few iterations numbers as well as reduces the falling into the local optima. The proposed IAEO algorithm for solving the multiobjective optimization problem of minimizing the Cost of Energy (COE), the reliability index presented by the Loss of Power Supply Probability (LPSP), and excess energy under the constraints are considered. The hybrid system is suggested to be located in Ataka region, Suez Gulf (latitude 30.0, longitude 32.5), Egypt, and the whole lifetime of the suggested case study is 25 years. To ensure the accurateness, stability, and robustness of the proposed optimization algorithm, it is examined on six different configurations, representing on-grid and off-grid hybrid RES. For all the studied cases the proposed IAEO algorithm outperforms the original AEO and generates the minimum value of the fitness function in less execution time. Furthermore, comprehensive statistical measurements are demonstrated to prove the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. Also, the results obtained by the conventional AEO and IAEO are compared with those obtained by several well-known optimization algorithms, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA), and Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO). Based on the obtained simulation results, the proposed IAEO has the best performance among other algorithms and it has successfully positioned itself as a competitor to novel algorithms for tackling the most complicated engineering problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El Moghra area, in the western desert of Egypt, is an important part of the national reclamation project (1.5 million acres—6.07 × 109 m2), which depends on the groundwater of El Moghra Formation (MF), the main aquifer in this area. Moghra Oasis and its surroundings are characterized by vast areas of good soil, which are favorable for agricultural development. In this respect, ambitious plans and successful programs are urgently required. Thirty-one vertical electrical sounding stations (VES's) were measured in El Moghra. The results of quantitative interpretation of such stations and well logging data indicate that the subsurface stratigraphy of the investigated area consists of six geo-electrical units where the main aquifer is represented by the fourth and sixth units intercalated with a clay unit (fifth unit). Thirteen boreholes of depth reaching 200 m are drilled in the study area. The hydrochemical analyses for collected samples indicate that the salinity of the groundwater in the Moghra area increases with depth. The result of the pumping test for boreholes indicates that the efficiency of the wells is ranging from 65 to 96% of the average value of 84.5%. The aquifer has transmissivity which represents a highly potential aquifer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Conservar Património is the property of Associacao Profissional de Conservadores-Restauradores de Portugal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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Providing access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy by adopting hybrid power systems is important for countries looking to achieve their sustainable development goals. This paper presents an optimization method for sizing a hybrid system including photovoltaic (PV), wind turbines with a hydroelectric pumped storage system. In this paper, the implementation of different optimization techniques has been investigated to achieve optimal sizing of grid-connected hybrid renewable energy systems. A comprehensive study has been carried out between Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), Water Cycle Algorithm (WCA), Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA), and Grey Wolf optimizer (GWO) to validate each one. Moreover, the optimal sizing of the system's components has been studied using real-time information and meteorological data of Ataka region located in Egypt. The purpose of the optimization process is to minimize the cost of energy from this hybrid system while satisfying the operation constraints including high reliability of the hybrid power supply, small fluctuation in the energy injected to the grid, and high utilization of the photovoltaic and wind complementary properties. MATLAB software package has been used to evaluate each optimization algorithm for solving the considered optimization problem. Simulation results proved that WOA has the most promising performance over other techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exhumed Paleozoic glacial deposits and landforms of the North Gondwana are reported here for the first time from the South Eastern Desert (SED) of Egypt. Using field observations and remote sensing datasets (Advanced Land Observing Satellite [ALOS], Phased Array L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar [PALSAR] radar, multispectral Landsat TM datasets, and digital elevation models [DEMs]), we mapped the distribution of Paleozoic glacial features (i.e. deposits and landforms) in the SED. Two main glaciogenic facies were identified in three locations in the SED: (1) massive, poorly sorted, matrix supported, boulder-rich diamictites in Wadi El-Naam and Korbiai, and (2) moderately-sorted, occasionally bedded outwash deposits in Betan area. Inspection of radar, DEMs, and Landsat Operational Land Imager (OLI) images revealed previously unrecognized ENE-WSW trending glacial megalineations (MLs) over the peneplained Neoproterozoic basement rocks in the central sections of the SED, whose trends align along their projected extension with those of glacial features (tunnel valleys and striation trends) reported from Saudi Arabia. The glaciogenic features in the SED are believed to be largely eroded during the uplift associated with the Red Sea opening, except for those preserved as basal units beneath the Nubia Sandstone Formation or as remnant isolated deposits within paleo-depressions within the basement complex. The apparent spatial correlation of the SED glacial features with well-defined Late Ordovician deposits in North Africa and in Saudi Arabia, and the reported thermochronometric analyses and fossil records are consistent with a Late Ordovician age for the SED glaciogenic features and support models that call on the continuation of the Late Ordovician (Hirnantian) ice sheet from the Sahara into Arabia through the SED of Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is a major threat to the poultry industry worldwide, with a diversity of genotypes associated with severe economic losses in all poultry sectors. Class II genotype VII NDV are predominant in the Middle East and Asia, despite intensive vaccination programs using conventional live and inactivated NDV vaccines. In Egypt, the disease is continuously spreading, causing severe economical losses in the poultry industry. In this study; the protective efficacy of a commercial, inactivated recombinant genotype VII NDV–matched vaccine (KBNP-C4152R2L strain) against challenge with the velogenic NDV strain (Chicken/USC/Egypt/2015) was evaluated in commercial layers. Two vaccination regimes were used; live NDV genotype II (LaSota) vaccine on days 10, 18, and 120, with either the inactivated NDV genotype II regime or inactivated NDV genotype VII–matched vaccine regime on days 14, 42, and 120. The 2 regimes were challenged at the peak of egg production on week 26. Protection by the 2 regimes was evaluated after experimental infection, based on mortality rate, clinical signs, gross lesions, virus shedding, seroconversion, and egg production schedule. The results show that these 2 vaccination regimes protected commercial layer chickens against mortality, but some birds showed mild clinical signs and reduced egg production temporarily. However, the combination of live NDV genotype II and recombinant inactivated genotype VII vaccines provided better protection against virus shedding (20% and 0% vs. 60% and 40%) as assessed in tracheal swabs and (20% and 0% vs. 20% and 20%) in cloacal swabs collected at 3 and 5 D post challenge (dpc), respectively. In addition, egg production levels in birds receiving the inactivated NDV genotype VII–matched vaccine regime and in those given inactivated genotype II vaccines were 76.6, 79, 82, and 87.4% and 77.7, 72.5, 69, and 82.5% at 7, 14, 21, and 28 dpc, respectively. The results of this study indicate that recombinant genotype-matched inactivated vaccine along with a live attenuated vaccine can reduce virus shedding and improve egg production in commercial layers challenged with a velogenic genotype VII virus under field conditions. This regime may ensure a proper control strategy in layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The relationship between hematological studies and cytokines are of great importance in metabolic syndrome (MetS) pathophysiology. The study aimed to illuminate the association between red blood cell (RBC) indices and interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β) with MetS components among adult Egyptian patients. Methods: A total of 100 healthy subjects and 200 patients diagnosed with MetS components were enrolled in the study. MetS patients have at least three of the following MetS components: abdominal obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, low high-density lipoprotein levels, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. Eligible patients were classified into 4 groups of 50 patients each. Group 1 included patients with 2 MetS criteria, Group 2 patients met 3 MetS criteria, Group 3 patients had 4 MetS criteria, and Group 4 patients fulfilled all 5 MetS criteria. Patients in Groups 2 to 4 are considered MetS patients, while those in Group 1 are classified as being at risk of MetS. Results: Among MetS patients, the data disclosed significantly (p<0.001) elevated RBC count and hematocrit percentage (HTC%) in Groups 2 and 3. However, higher hemoglobin (HB) content and elevated mean corpuscular volume values were recorded in Group 3 compared to healthy controls. Group 4 had noticeably lower RBC count and HB level compared to healthy controls. Moreover, values of red blood cell distribution width and IL-1β were significantly higher (p<0.001) in all MetS patient groups compared to the healthy group. The continuous MetS score showed a graded significant (p<0.001) elevation with the increase in MetS components. Concerning Group 3, RBC count recorded positive correlations with systolic blood pressure and IL-1β values, while red cell distribution width percentage (RDW%) was correlated with the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in Groups 3 and 4. Conclusions: Erythrocyte profile, IL-1β, and continuous MetS score values were associated with the increase in MetS components. The study provides additional evidence to use hematological and cytokine biomarkers as well as continuous MetS score values in early identification of individuals at risk of MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the expression of AFB1 gene in isolates obtained from corneal scrapping samples from keratitis patients and to correlate the quantity of AFB1 to the severity of keratitis. An observational study was undertaken in Medical Microbiology and Immunology department, Mansoura University, Egypt, over corneal scrapping samples that were cultured aiming to isolate fungal causes of infective keratitis followed by AFB1 gene detection in Aspergillus flavus isolates by nested PCR then quantitation of the toxin by TLC. Out of 843 corneal scrapping samples collected from patients with infective keratitis, positive fungal growth was identified in 277 cases (32.9%). A. flavus was the commonest fungal agent isolated in 93 cases (33.6%). The AFB1 toxin–encoding gene was detected in 63.4% of A. flavus isolates. There was a positive correlation between the quantity of produced AFB1 toxin and the degree of severity of keratitis (P value < 0.0001*). Aspergillus flavus was the most common cause of fungal keratitis, with the AFB1 toxin–encoding gene detected in more than half of the isolates. A significant correlation between the degree of severity of keratitis and the quantity of produced AFB1 toxin was detected. Therefore, exploring presence or absence of AFB1 toxin is important for the clinicians in their diagnostic assessment and selection of proper treatment choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]