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The textile industry's waste often contains excessive amounts of crystal violet (CV), leading to environmental concerns. Graphene oxide has been studied as a promising adsorbent for removing crystal violet, a cationic dye, from aqueous solutions. The study involved a comprehensive analysis of various experimental parameters, including initial concentration, pH, adsorbent mass, contact time, and temperature. Graphene oxide underwent thorough analysis using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and specific surface area determination via the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) was also employed. This study aimed to optimize the synthesis yield of graphene oxide from graphite using the Hummers method and response surface methodology (RSM), achieving a yield of 106.14% with 5 g of KMnO4 and 1 g of NaNO3 for 8 hours. The graphene oxide was analyzed via FTIR, XRD, SEM, BET, pHpzc, and EDS. Optimal conditions for maximal adsorption included 0.016 g of graphene oxide, 18 minutes of contact time, pH 10, and a temperature of 25°C, resulting in a 97.38% reduction in crystal violet with a monolayer adsorption capacity of 470.78 mg/g. Kinetic data were best fitted by the pseudosecond‐order model, and the Langmuir isotherm accurately depicted adsorption. Thermodynamic analysis indicated spontaneous (ΔG° < 0) and exothermic (ΔH° < 0) crystal violet adsorption. Density functional theory (DFT) explored interactions between graphene oxide and crystal violet, supporting experimental findings and confirming graphene oxide's efficacy as an adsorbent for crystal violet removal from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Monitoring of intracranial pressure is a highly valued tool in neurosurgical practice. There is no consensus about the exact outer zero point for correlation with the brain center while measuring the intracranial pressure using external ventricular drainage system. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of using the top of the head serving as the zero-reference point of the intracranial pressure monitoring device and correlate its relation to the foramen of Monro at clinically used positions of the head. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included 30 patients who were candidates for invasive intracranial pressure monitoring with external ventricular drain for different pathological reasons. We compared two points as a zero-reference point; the glabella and the tragus as approximation to the foramen of Monro in different head positions. RESULTS: Readings while using the tragus were slightly higher than those while using the glabella as regards the intracranial pressure and drained higher cerebrospinal fluid volumes, with no statistically significant difference. CONCLUSION: Our study revealed that a zero point at the foramen of Monro was found to be insignificantly different from using the glabella as the zero-reference point when the head of the patient was positioned either supine or elevated 45°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel heterocyclic compounds containing pyrimido[4,5-d]pyrimidine (IIIa–IIIb) and (IVa–IVb), pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine (Va'–Ve') and (VIa'–VIe'), and pyrimido[4,5-b]quinoline (VIIa'–VIIe') and (VIIIa'–VIIIe') were designed and synthesized from the starting materials, 5-(bis(methylthio)methylene)-1,3-diphenylpyrimidine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione (IIa) and 5-(bis(methylthio)methylene)-1,3-diphenyl-2-thioxodihydropyrimidine-4,6(1H,5H)-dione (IIb) as efficient α,α-ketene dithioacetals is reported. The synthetic approaches of these types of compounds will provide an innovative molecular framework to the designing of new active heterocyclic compounds. In our study, we also present optimization of the method for synthesis along with antimicrobial evaluation of these newly synthesized compounds as antibacterial agents against the bacterial strains, like E. coli, B. subtilis, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa also as antifungal agents against B. cinerea, C. arachidicola, A. solani, G. zeae, S. sclerotiorum, and R. cerealis. Preliminary bioassay showed that most of them exhibited certain-to-excellent antibacterial and antifungal activity. Among all the evaluated compounds, it was found that the synthesized compounds (IVb) and (VIIIc') showed the outstanding antibacterial activity (100%) against the strains E coli and S. aureus respectively comparable to the standard drug Ciprofloxacin at the same concenteration while the others exhibited better antifungal activity at 100 µg/mL. The outstanding antifungal activity (>90%) comparable to the positive controls trifloxystrobin and azoxystrobin exhibited by (VIIIc') against B. cinerea, (IVb) and (Vc') against A. solani, (IVb) against S. sclerotiorum alongwith compounds (VIb'–VIc') against R. cerealis. The structures of all the new synthesized compounds were elucidated by elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel series of heterocyclic compounds containing thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidine and pyrimido[5,4-d]thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidine analogues were designed and synthesized starting from α,α-ketene dithioacetals (I), and their structures were confirmed by elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR. In our study, we also present optimization of the synthetic method along with a biological evaluation of these newly synthesized compounds as antioxidants and antifungal. Preliminary bioassay showed that most of them exhibited certain-to-excellent antioxidant and antifungal activity. Among all the evaluated compounds, it was found that some showed significant antioxidant activity at 10 µg/mL while the others exhibited better antifungalal activity at 100 µg/mL. Thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidines (IVa–IVb) and (IVc–IVd) showed higher than 80% inhibition activity against C. arachidicola and P. infestans respectively whereas the thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidines (VIc–VId) showed maximum activity against B. cinerea and C. arachidicola, as for the tested pyrimido[5,4-d]thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidines (IXc–IXd) against G. zeae, P. piricola, and P. sasakii. In particular, thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidines (IVc–IVd) exhibited outstanding activity (> 90%) against G. zeae. Among all the evaluated compounds, it was found that some showed significant antioxidant activity at 10 µg/mL and the maximum DPPH radical scavenging activity was observed with synthetic thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidines (VIIc–VIId) and pyrimido[5,4-d]thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidine (IXc–IXd), especially pyrimido[5,4-d]thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidine (IXc) which possessed the highest antioxidant activity in comparable to that of standard vitamin C at similar concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The identification of bladder detrusor muscle invasion in urothelial cancer is essential for prognosis and management. We studied the clinical, histological, and immunohistochemical expression of p16, p53, and Ki-67 in urothelial detrusor muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and urothelial non-detrusor muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) in Egyptian patients. Methods: Sixty-two bladder urothelial cancer cases obtained through TURBT were included and divided into two groups: (MIBC, stage T2) and NMIBC (T1). Tissue blocks were recut and re-examined microscopically; then, the immunostaining of p16, p53, and Ki-67 was performed to compare both groups and evaluate the 13% cut-off for Ki-67, 20% for p53, and p16 intensity in various conditions aided by telepathology technology. Results and conclusion: Hematuria was the main clinical first presentation, with no significant difference between either group. The mean age was 61.6 years, with male predominance (52 males and 10 females). The absence of papillary histological pattern was associated with a higher stage, including detrusor muscle invasion (p = 0.000). The overall average percent of p53 immunostaining was 12.9%, revealing no significant difference between MIBC and NMIBC when a cut-off of 20% was implicated. The Ki-67 expression was correlated with higher grade and muscle invasion; however, no association was found with the other two markers' expression. The negative immunostaining of p16 was associated with low grade and NMIBC in the case of the preservation of the papillary pattern. We recommend further studies on the cut-off of widely used markers and more immunohistochemical and genetic studies on the p16(INK4A), taking into consideration the histological pattern of conventional carcinomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One series of total 5 phenylisoxazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine and five series of total 22 pyrazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine compounds were designed, synthesized and evaluated for anti-oxidant, antibacterial and antifungal activities. Compounds pyrazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives (VIIIa'–d'), (IXa'–d') and (XIa'–d') exhibited significant antioxidant activity at 10 µg/mL better than compounds isoxazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives (IIIa–e). The maximum anti-oxidant and anti-lipid peroxidation activities were showed for evaluated compound (IXb') 90% and 68% activities comparable to Vitamin-C and with Vitamin-E which showed 92% and 70% of activity respectively. Furthermore, compounds (VIIIa'–d') showed the highest antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea and Alternaria solani species whereas compounds (IXa'–d') showed the highest antifungal activities against Cercospora arachidicola and Gibberellazeae zeae species. Finally as antibacterial activity the evaluated compounds (VIIIa'–d') showed pronounced antibacterial activities against Escherihia coli strain. All newly synthesized compounds structures were established on the basis of their elemental analysis and spectral IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Toxoplasma gondii is an emerging foodborne parasite disease causing morbidity and mortality worldwide. The coccidian parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, has an exceptionally broad spectrum of intermediate hosts. Felids are the only definitive host responsible in producing oocysts that are highly resistant to environmental elements. Toxoplasmosis is common leading to public health concerns and economic losses to the animal industry. In the current study, serum and tissue samples from village chickens and pigs were examined. In chickens, 7.6% of serum and 14.0% of tissue samples were detected with T. gondii. On the other hand, 3.0% of serum and 5.8% of pig tissue samples were positive with T. gondii. Six unique DNA sequences were isolated from the tissue samples. The risk factor findings, which are the first study in Malaysia, emphasised the necessity for covering feed storage and tightening the biosecurity in farm to lower the exposure of village chickens and pigs to the parasite. Toxoplasma gondii is an important zoonotic foodborne parasite capable of infecting almost all warm-blooded animal species worldwide. Toxoplasmosis is usually acquired via ingestion of undercooked infected animal tissues resulting in life-threatening consequences for unborn foetus and immunocompromised individuals. A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence of T. gondii infection, its associated risk factors in farms, and haplotypes isolated from the native village chicken and pig populations in Peninsular Malaysia. The seroprevalence of T. gondii in village chickens at the animal level was low at 7.6% (95% CI: 4.60–11.60), while at the farm level, it was 52.0% (95% CI: 31.30–72.20). For pigs, the animal-level seroprevalence of T. gondii was 3.0% (95% CI: 1.60–5.10), while the farm-level, it was 31.6% (95% CI: 12.60–56.60). The PCR-based DNA detection on meat samples from chickens (n = 250) and pork (n = 121) detected 14.0% (95% CI: 9.95–18.9) and 5.8% (95% CI: 2.4–11.6) positive, respectively. Six unique T. gondii haplotypes were isolated from the tissue samples. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that feeding the chickens farm-produced feeds and allowing wild animals access to pig farms were significant determinants for farm-level seropositivity. Providing hygienic and good quality feeds to chickens and increasing biosecurity in pig farms through prevention of access by wildlife may reduce the risk of transmission of T. gondii infection in the local chickens and pig farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial barriers in Learning Automata (LA) is a powerful and yet under-explored concept although it was first proposed in the 1980s. Introducing artificial non-absorbing barriers makes the LA schemes resilient to being trapped in absorbing barriers, a phenomenon which is often referred to as lock in probability leading to an exclusive choice of one action after convergence. Within the field of LA and reinforcement learning in general, there is a sacristy of theoretical works and applications of schemes with artificial barriers. In this paper, we devise a LA with artificial barriers for solving a general form of stochastic bimatrix game. Classical LA systems possess properties of absorbing barriers and they are a powerful tool in game theory and were shown to converge to game's of Nash equilibrium under limited information. However, the stream of works in LA for solving game theoretical problems can merely solve the case where the Saddle Point of the game exists in a pure strategy and fail to reach mixed Nash equilibrium when no Saddle Point exists for a pure strategy. Furthermore, we provide experimental results that are in line with our theoretical findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate how plyometric exercise (PLYO-Ex) affects mechanics and morphometrics of the plantar flexor musculotendinous unit in children with unilateral cerebral palsy, 38 participants (aged 10–16 years) were allocated at random to either the PLYO-Ex group (n = 19; received 24 sessions of plyometric muscle loading, conducted 2 times a week for 3 months in succession) or the control group (n = 19; underwent traditional physical therapy for the same frequency and duration). Measurements were taken pre- and post-intervention. Standard ultrasound imaging was applied to evaluate morphometrics of the gastrocnemius muscle and Achilles tendon unit and an isokinetic dynamometer was used to evaluate maximum voluntary isometric plantar flexors contraction (IVCmax). With controlling for pre-treatment values, significant post-treatment changes favoring the PLYO-Ex group were observed for morphological (tendon (p = 0.003, η2p = 0.23) length; belly length (p = 0.001, η2p = 0.27); tendon thickness (p = 0.035, η2p = 0.35); muscle thickness (p = 0.013, η2p = 0.17); fascicle length (p = 0.009, η2p = 0.18); pennation angle (p = 0.015, η2p = 0.16)) and mechanical and material properties (IVCmax (p = 0.009, η2p = 0.18); tendon's elongation (p = 0.012, η2p = 0.17), stiffness (p = 0.027, η2p = 0.13); stress (p = 0.006, η2p = 0.20); strain (p = 0.004, η2p = 0.21)). In conclusion, plyometric exercise induces significant adaptations within the musculotendinous unit of the plantar flexors in children with unilateral cerebral palsy. These adaptations could improve muscular efficiency and consequently optimize physical/functional performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study validates and extends the latest unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT2) with the privacy calculus model. To evaluate the adoption of healthcare and e-government applications, researchers have recommended—in previous literature—the application of technology adoption models with privacy, trust, and security-related constructs. However, the current UTAUT2 model lacks privacy, trust, and security-related constructs. Therefore, the proposed UTAUT2 with the privacy calculus model is incorporated into four constructs: privacy concern, perceived risk, trust in the smart national identity card (SNIC), and perceived credibility. Results from a survey data of 720 respondents show that habit, effort expectancy, performance expectancy, social influence, hedonic motivation, and price value are direct determinants that influence behavioral intentions to use. Results also revealed that behavioral intentions, facilitating conditions, habits, perceived risks, and privacy concerns are direct predictors of 'use behavior'. The authors also analyzed the interrelationships among the research constructs. The extended model may lead toward establishing better innovative e-health services to cover the desires of the citizens through the use of health information applications embedded in an all-in-one card. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bardet-Biedl syndrome is a rare multisystem autosomal recessive disorder that falls under the spectrum of ciliopathy disorders. It is characterized by rod-cone dystrophy, renal malformations, polydactyly, learning difficulties, central obesity, and hypogonadism. Many minor features that are related with Bardet-Biedl syndrome might aid in diagnosis and are crucial in clinical management. Bardet-Biedl syndrome is diagnosed on the basis of clinical signs and symptoms, which can be confirmed by genetic testing. Here we present four cases of Bardet-Biedl syndrome. To our knowledge, these are the first cases of Bardet-Biedl syndrome reported from Sudan.Case Presentation: Here, we report four Sudanese patients who presented with a variety of clinical manifestations of Bardet-Biedl syndrome (two males, 50 and 16 years old; two females, 38 and 18 years old). The first two patients presented with features of chronic kidney disease. The third patient had recently been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis. The fourth patient showed signs of retinal dystrophy early on. Case 1: a 38-year-old female presented with vomiting and irritability; the patient was diagnosed with Bardet-Biedl syndrome as she fulfilled six items of the primary features (obesity, retinitis pigmentosa, post-axial polydactyly, renal abnormalities, learning disabilities, and genitourinary malformations), as well as one secondary feature (cardiovascular involvement, that is, left ventricular hypertrophy). Case 2: a 50-year-old male presented with fatigability; the patient was diagnosed with Bardet-Biedl syndrome as he fulfilled four items of the primary features (obesity, retinitis pigmentosa, post-axial polydactyly, and renal abnormalities) in addition to two secondary features (diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular involvement, that is, left ventricular hypertrophy). Case 3: an 18-year-old female presented with polyuria, polydipsia, weight loss, and epigastric pain for 2 days; the patient was diagnosed with Bardet-Biedl syndrome because he had four major features (retinal dystrophy, post-axial polydactyly, obesity, and learning disabilities) in addition to three secondary features (developmental delay, diabetes mellitus, and strabismus). Case 4: a 16-year-old male presented with a blurring of vision; the patient was diagnosed with Bardet-Biedl syndrome as he exhibited four major features (retinal dystrophy, post-axial polydactyly, obesity, and learning disabilities) plus two secondary features (developmental delay and cataract).Conclusion: The scarcity of Bardet-Biedl syndrome necessitates a high index of suspicion to diagnose this syndrome. Increased awareness among physicians is required for the early diagnosis and treatment of Bardet-Biedl syndrome and to avoid complications and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most common endocrinological condition affecting young women of reproductive age is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). In the general population, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in numerous genes have been linked to metabolic co morbidities. This study was carried out to investigate whether the polymorphisms of two SNPs of the MTNR gene polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to PCOS, investigating the effect of these polymorphisms on the levels of Luteinizing hormone (LH), Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Testosterone hormone (T), Prolactin hormone (PRL), Estradiol hormone (E2) and Lipid profile. Genotyping of melatonin receptor 1A gene in chromosome 4 (T to C; rs2119882) SNP; The position of intron variant (C to G; rs10830963) SNP in melatonin receptor 1B gene in chromosome 11 were determined using HRM (High Resolution Method) genotyping assay by RT-PCR (using the Qiagen Rotor gene Q Real-time PCR System. The results showed the genotype and allele frequency of melatonin receptor 1A gene distribution frequencies at rs2119882T< C SNP polymorphism the TT genotype was in women with polycystic ovary syndrome significantly (p<0.01) lower than that of apparently healthy women. While, the TC genotype was significantly (p<0.05) higher in PCOS patients than in apparently healthy women and here were no significant difference in CC genotype percentage between apparently healthy subjects and PCOS patients as related with rs2119882 at melatonin receptor 1A gene. Also The genotypes and allele frequency of melatonin receptor 1B gene distributions for rs10830963C

Urinary schistosomiasis is a tropical parasitic disease caused by Schistosoma haematobium and is usually associated with lesions in the genito-urinary tracts of affected people. A cross-sectional study was designed to examine factors influencing the occurrence of the disease among inhabitants of the IDP camps located in Maiduguri between October 2016 and June 2019. Information on demography, major sources of water supply and water-contact behaviours were obtained using pre-validated structured questionnaire. Urine samples were collected and examined for Schistosoma haematobium eggs using standard methods. A sample yielding at least one egg was considered positive while a sample that did not yield any was considered to be negative. The characteristics and disease risk factors were compared between respondents that tested positive and those that were negative for the infection using univariable statistical analysis and factors found to be significant were further analyzed using multivariable logistic regression. The results showed the overall prevalence of infection among the IDPs to be 21.9% (95% Confidence Interval, 95% CI= 19.54-24.42%). The multivariable logistic regression model showed that the statistically significant (p<0.05) predictors of infection including sex, occupation (X2 = 9.873, df=4, p=0.04), participation in water sporting activity and having washed/bathed in open water body before displacement, presence of signs of the disease in a tent/room member, knowledge of the disease and major source of water supply (X2 = 72.467, df=2, p<0.001) before the displacement. The relatively high prevalence of the disease in the study area may have negative effects on the reproduction and productivity of the IDPs. Based on the identified risk factors, behavioural changes, improved sanitation and safe water supply were recommended as control measures against urinary schistosomiasis in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an emerging mosquito-borne zoonosis that threatens public health and animal agriculture in the endemic areas causing devastating epizootics characterized by abortion storms and high mortalities, especially in newborn animals. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence and investigate risk factors associated with exposure to the virus in camels slaughtered in Maiduguri abattoir, Borno State of Nigeria. Camels presented for slaughtered were sampled and data on age, sex, source or origin, utility, presence of post-mortem lesions, body weights and body condition score were collected. Blood samples were collected and sera were harvested and stored at – 20 °C until tested. The sera were tested using a commercial ELISA kit based on the manufacturer’s instructions. The overall seroprevalence in the study was 20.7% (95% CI, 13.6–30.0). The analysis showed no significant differences between the presence of antibodies and variables that included the sex of camels (χ2 = 0.015, df = 1, p = 0.904) and the presence of post-mortem lesion on the carcass (χ2 = 0.009, df = 1, p = 0.925). There were significant differences between presence of antibodies and three variables that included the age (χ2 = 4.89, df = 1, p = 0.027), the source (χ2 = 7.077, df = 2, p = 0.029) and the main utility (χ2 = 8.057, df = 3, p = 0.045) of the camels. It was concluded that camels presented for slaughter at the Maiduguri abattoir have evidence of exposure to the RVF virus and maybe means of transmission of the virus. Regular monitoring and control of transboundary animal movements were recommended in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wadi Faliq El Sahl–Faliq El Waar area comprises four various types of rocks including metavolcanics, older granites, Hammamat sediments, and younger granites of monzogranite and syenogranite composition. From the various structural analyses in the investigated area, the main trends controlling the structural and tectonic framework are ENE-WSW and NE-SW, while the trends NNE-SSW, WNW-ESE, and N-S are less abundant. Three major phases of deformation are detected in the study area, each of which gives its specific trends according to the applied stress axis during the time of deformation. The first phase shows compressive stress whose σ1 maximum compressional axis was E-W trend (N81°W). The second phase is a compression phase in which the σ1 maximum compression axis was directed N13°W. The third phase represents a trans-tensional (extensional) stress system, in which the maximum tension force (σ1) is in the N-S trend. The study area passed through four stages of evolution, which are (1) the arc-metavolcanic formation with island arc assemblage and the intrusion of older granitoids during the inter-collision of the island arcs; (2) the tectonic processes forming the inter-mountainous basins; (3) the folding of the Hammamat basin under Najd-related shear zones; and (4) the intrusion of syenogranite and uplifting of the Hammamat sediments during the Late Precambrian rifting. The potash-rich outer zone of pegmatite bosses in the younger granites recorded high values of gamma radioactivity with U content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The objective of this work was to verify the relationships between environmental conditions and microbial processes along a raw-light greywater flow in an improved constructed wetland (CW) system. Physicochemical analysis and high-throughput DNA sequencing were performed in the different zones to investigate the environmental conditions and microbial communities. The results showed that the system operated predominantly under anaerobic conditions, with redox potential (Eh) increasing from the inlet (−342.9 mV) to the outlet (−316.4 mV). Conversely, the chemical oxygen demand (COD) decreased along the greywater flow, suggesting negative correlation between these characteristics. The zones of the evapotranspiration and treatment tank (CEvaT) were characterized by lower community diversity and richness and by the presence of specific groups: Proteobacteria and Synergistetes related to the first steps of the conversion of organic carbon, in the bottom layer inside the anaerobic chamber (AnC); methanogens (Methanosaeta and Methanobacterium) and sulphate-reducing bacteria (Desulfovibrio, Desulforhabdus and Desulfomonile) in the middle layer; and microorganisms associated with the nitrogen cycle and oxygen release (Acinetobacter, Novosphingobium, Candidatus Nitrososphaera) in the top layer. On the other hand, the increase of the ORP and decrease of organic matter concentrations were associated with higher community diversity and richness in the middle layer of the CW, which showed higher abundance of microorganisms involved in methane (Methylobacterium and Candidatus Koribacter) and sulphur (Rhodoblastus and Thiobacillus) oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this Case-Control Study, One hundred thirty six adult subjects with obesity were separated to take part in the current research. At the Kirkuk General Hospital in Kirkuk City- Iraq, Applying this study had done for the duration of the 16th of February to the end of June 2020 Adult subjects with obesity outpatient attended to Kirkuk General Hospital were enrolled in this research. Ages of adult persons were amid 18 to 62 years and they were from the center and periphery of Kirkuk City. Thirty one adult persons with obesity were considered as a study group, thirty adult persons were measured as control, sixty-three adult persons didn’t assembly the inclusion criteria and 20 adult persons refuse to participate in this study because of the in agreement of their people. Blood sample were collected from each adult person for determination of copepetin, lipid profile and blood sugar determination. The study revealed that the mean of copeptin was higher in obese group as compared with healthy control group (166.4±81.8 vs. 35.01±12.3 pg/ml). The study showed a significant difference between obese and the control group regarding fasting blood sugar (FBS) (119.3±12.5 and 98.2±11.6 mg/dl) respectively. The study showed that, the mean serum triglyceride was recorded to be higher in obese group (110.4±45.3 mg/dl) as compared with healthy control group (90.9 ±29.1 mg/dl). The study showed that, the mean of serum cholesterol was higher in obese group (170.7±36.3 mg/dl) as compared with healthy control group (151.7 ±29.6 mg/dl). The study showed that, the lowest mean of serum HDL was recorded in obese group (41.6±14.5 mg/dl) as compared with healthy control group (61.44 ±7.63 mg/dl). The study showed that, the highest mean of serum LDL and VLDL was recorded in obese group as compared with healthy control group. The study showed negative correlation between serum copeptin and FBS in obese individuals. It was concluded that, Serum copeptin was significantly higher in obese group as compared with healthy control group and there was a negative correlation between copeptin and blood sugar levels [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proposal target was determining the gene expression and single nucleotide polymorphism of Androgen receptor gene (rs6152 G>T) in blood sample of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) Iraqi females. Fifty females (n=50) with RSA consulted Al-Elwiya teaching hospital from February to June 2019 and apparently healthy fertile control (n=50) were enrolled. DNA and RNA were extracted from leucocytes to detriment the SNP and gene expression which were carried out by (RT-q PCR). The results showed non -significant difference (p>0.05) in the mean of threshold cycle(ΔCt) of androgen receptor gene between female with RSA and control. Assessing the 2-ΔΔCt in female with RSA, non -significant decreased expression of folding in androgen receptor m RNA compared with control. The genotypes and allele frequencies in the two groups showed significant decrease in the heterozygous (GA) and mutant (AA) genotype frequencies in female with RSA, the frequency of wild (GG) genotype is increased in female with RSA. In conclusion, expression of androgen receptor gene didn't affect in female with RSA, the mutant genotype may play as protective SNP against RSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single nucleotide polymorphisms are considered as one of causes of male infertility. The replacement of histones with protamines led to proper sperm chromatin packaging which associated with male fertility. The defects of protamine genes have been reported to cause sperm DNA damage and male infertility. In this study, the relationship between protamines genes SNPs that include PRM1 (C321A) and PRM2 (C248T) were studied in 30 oligozoospermic, 30 asthenozoospermic patients and 30 apparently healthy subjects. Analysis of these SNPs was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and PCR sequencing. As related with PRM1 (C321A), CA genotype frequency was significantly (p<0.05) higher in severe oligozoospermia group than apparently healthy control group, higher in control group than in asthenozoospermia group and higher in severe oligozoospermia group than in asthenozoospermia group. In contrast, AA genotype frequency was significantly (p<0.05) higher in control group than severe oligozoospermia group and in asthenozoospermia group than in severe oligozoospermia group. As related with PRM2 (C248T) only CT genotypes (100%) were found in all samples studied. In PRM1 gene, CA genotype of C321A SNP was associated with severe oligozoospermia rather than asthenozoospermia whereas there is no association between C248T SNP of PRM2 gene and the incidence of both oligozoospermia and asthenozoospermia in Iraqi patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in the Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq using 21oligozoospermic patients and 21 apparently healthy subjects (Control) to evaluate the role of MLH1 gene expression in oligozoospermia incidence. Blood samples were collected from Baghdad Specialist Fertility and analyzed by RTqPCR. The study showed that the expression level of MLH1 gene for oligozoospermic patients was half of the expression level in healthy subjects. Semen samples were also collected for measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidants. The study presents a significant increase (p<0.01) in MDA levels of patients compared to the control, however, there was no significant difference in total antioxidants levels between control and patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic trans-nasal trans-sphenoidal hypophysectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at resection of pituitary tumors. This technique is widely practiced in developed countries but is presently gaining popularity in our environment. This study was aimed at presenting our preliminary outcomes as it relates to the technique of endoscopic trans-nasal trans-sphenoidal pituitary surgery in Kano, Nigeria. This was a retrospective study of patients with pituitary tumors that presented at a government tertiary and private specialist health institutions from October 2018 to December 2019. They all had excision of varying degrees of pituitary tumors via endoscopic trans-nasal trans-sphenoidal approach under general anesthesia. There were 4 females (66.7%) and 2 males (33.3%) and their ages ranged between 25 – 60 years. They presented with varying degrees of clinical symptoms such as gynaecomastia, galactorrhea, irregular menstruation, infertility, intermittent headache and visual impairment. Four (66.7%) had complete tumor excision and 2 (33.3%) had incomplete excision. Four (66.7%) had complete symptom relief and 2 (33.3%) had significant improvement in symptoms. The complications of surgery were nasal septal adhesion 1(16.7%), CSF leak 1(16.7%) and transient diabetes insipidus 2(33.3%). All complications were resolved during admission and at follow up visits. Histopathological analysis of specimens confirmed 5 cases of pituitary adenoma and a case of pituitary Rathkes cleft cyst. Endoscopic trans-nasal trans-sphenoidal pituitary surgery is feasible and has a favorable outcome in our setting with prospects for improvement to ensure safety. Keywords: Nasal endoscopy, Sinus surgery, Pituitary tumors, Skull base, Hypophysectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taxol is the most profitable drug ever developed in cancer chemotherapy; however, the market demand for the drug greatly exceeds the supply that can be sustained from its natural sources. In this study, Aspergillus fumigatus TXD105–GM6 and Alternaria tenuissima TER995–GM3 were immobilized in calcium alginate beads and used for the production of taxol in shake flask cultures. In an effort to increase the taxol magnitude, immobilization conditions were optimized by response surface methodology program (RSM). The optimum levels of alginate concentration, calcium chloride concentration, and mycelium fresh weight were 5%, 4%, and 15% (w/v), respectively. Under these conditions, taxol production by the respective fungal strains was intensified to 901.94 μg L−1 and 529.01 μg L−1. Moreover, the immobilized mycelia of both strains were successfully used in the repeated production of taxol for six different fermentation cycles. The total taxol concentration obtained in all cycles reached 4540.14 μg L−1 by TXD105–GM6 and 2450.27 μg L−1 by TER995–GM3 strain, which represents 7.85- and 6.31-fold increase, as compared to their initial titers. This is the first report on the production of taxol in semi-continuous fermentation. To our knowledge, the taxol productivity achieved in this study is the highest reported by academic laboratories for microbial cultures which indicates the future possibility to reduce the cost of taxol production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single nucleotide polymorphisms are considered as one of causes of male infertility. The replacement of histones with protamines led to proper sperm chromatin packaging which associated with male fertility. The defects of protamine genes have been reported to cause sperm DNA damage and male infertility. In this study, the relationship between protamines genes SNPs that include PRM1 (C321A) and PRM2 (C248T) were studied in 30 oligozoospermic, 30 asthenozoospermic patients and 30 apparently healthy subjects. Analysis of these SNPs was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and PCR sequencing. As related with PRM1 (C321A), CA genotype frequency was significantly (p<0.05) higher in severe oligozoospermia group than apparently healthy control group, higher in control group than in asthenozoospermia group and higher in severe oligozoospermia group than in asthenozoospermia group. In contrast, AA genotype frequency was significantly (p<0.05) higher in control group than severe oligozoospermia group and in asthenozoospermia group than in severe oligozoospermia group. As related with PRM2 (C248T) only CT genotypes (100%) were found in all samples studied. In PRM1 gene, CA genotype of C321A SNP was associated with severe oligozoospermia rather than asthenozoospermia whereas there is no association between C248T SNP of PRM2 gene and the incidence of both oligozoospermia and asthenozoospermia in Iraqi patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UV and gamma irradiation mutagenesis was applied on Aspergillus fumigatus and Alternaria tenuissima in order to improve their producing ability of paclitaxel. Among the screened mutants, two stable strains (designated TXD105–GM6 and TER995–GM3) showed the maximum paclitaxel production. Paclitaxel titers of the two respective mutants were dramatically intensified to 1.22- and 1.24-fold, as compared by their respective parents. Immobilization using five different entrapment carriers of calcium alginate, agar-agar, Na-CMC, gelatin, and Arabic gum was successfully applied for production enhancement of paclitaxel by the two mutants. The immobilized cultures were superior to free-cell cultures and paclitaxel production by the immobilized mycelia was much higher than that of the immobilized spores using all the tried carriers. Moreover, calcium alginate gel beads were found the most conductive and proper entrapment carrier for maximum production of paclitaxel. The feasibility of the paclitaxel production by the immobilized mycelia as affected by incubation period, medium volume, and number of beads per flask was adopted. Under the favorable immobilization conditions, the paclitaxel titers were significantly intensified to 1.31- and 1.88-fold by the respective mutants, as compared by their free cultures. The obtained paclitaxel titers by the immobilized mycelia of the respective mutants (694.67 and 388.65 μg L−1) were found promising in terms of fungal production of paclitaxel. Hence, these findings indicate the future possibility to reduce the cost of producing paclitaxel and suggest application of the immobilization technique for the biotechnological production of paclitaxel at an industrial scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Information on family planning and use of antenatal care services is vital for understanding the main influences on fertility and evaluating the success of national family planning programmes. This study aimed to explore contraceptive use and its relation to use of antenatal care services in Egypt. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among women attending three primary health care centres serving different slum areas of Cairo. Results: Most of women who used antenatal care services obtained contraception from the state sector. Although the number of antenatal care visits was not significantly associated with contraceptive use, it was a significant determining factor for the type of method used. Reasons given for non-use of contraception were related to reproductive health concerns or disapproval of contraceptive use. Conclusion: Contraceptive use is widespread in Egypt, regardless of age and level of education. Antenatal care is no longer viewed with suspicion. Antenatal care visits are an opportunity for health care providers (HCPs) to encourage the use of contraception. Repeated antenatal care visits help to engender a relationship of trust between women and HCPs. Incorporation of family planning programmes into antenatal care programmes would be an opportunity to promote modern contraceptive use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is a combination of heterogeneous disorders commonly presenting with episodes of hyperglycaemia and glucose intolerance, as a result of lack of insulin, defective insulin action, or both ppar gamma gene variant (C1431T) has been linked to risk of development of diabetes mellitus. ppar gene SNP (rs3856806) were determined by using Taqman genotyping assay. The results showed that the distribution of genotypes and alleles frequencies at(rs3856806) snp of ppar gamma gene, as related with CC, CT and combined CT+CC genotypes As related with CC (wild) genotype, there was no significant difference in the frequency of this genotype between apparently healthy controls and T2DM patients, whereas, the frequency of CT (heterozygous) genotype was significantly (p<0.01) higher in T2DM patients when compared with apparently healthy control (90 versus 70%, respectively; X2 = 7.250; OR= 1.288). As related with TT (homozygous) genotype, the frequency was in apparently healthy subjects significantly (p<0.01) higher than in diabetic patients (24 versus 4%, respectively; X2 = 7.250; OR= 1.288)., in heterozygous state, T allele represent a risk factor for T2DM incidence in Iraqi patients. In contrast, T allele in homozygous state represent a protective factor for T2DM in Iraqi patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 5 - 10% of reproductive age women and is the leading cause of ovulatory dysfunction. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is an important regulator offolliculogenesis in the ovaries. AMH inhibitory action on FSH-induced aromatase production likely contributes to hyper and rogenism in PCOS, which further enhances insulin resistance. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association of the AMH Ser49Ile (rs10407022) polymorphism with PCOS susceptibility in Iraqi women. Genetic and hormonal studies were performed on 50 PCOS patients and 50 apparently healthy controls. AMH gene was genotyped using TaqMan genotyping kit by RT-PCR. Serum concentrations of LH, FSH, TSH and prolactin were determined. Comparisons of studied parameters were achieved by statistical analysis system (SAS). Serum FSH hormone concentrations were significantly (p<0.05) lower in PCOS patients compared with controls (4.87 versus 10.63 IU/L, respectively). Serum FSH concentrations were increased in GT genotype carriers compared with those of GG and TT genotypes. Also, there was a G allele-related decrease in serum prolactin concentrations. In silico study revealed that the prediction of the Provean tool for the effect of rs10407022 SNP of AMH gene was neutral. This variant was predicted to be possibly damaging using PolyPhen-2 tool. Also, this variant was predicted to be probably benign using Panther classification system. The predicted protein stability of this variant was decreased. As related with GG (wild) genotype, the frequency was in patients with PCOS significantly (p<0.05) higher than in apparently healthy controls (14 versus 2%, respectively; X² = 5.133; OR = 0.806). The frequency of combined (heterozygous + homozygous) genotypes was significantly (p<0.05) higher in controls when compared with PCOS patients (98 versus 86%, respectively; X² = 4.039; OR = 0.692). It can be concluded that no association between both heterozygous and homozygous mutants at rs10407022 with the incidence of PCOS in Iraqi women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocomposite material ZnAl2O4/ZnO was prepared via layered double hydroxides co-precipitation method in the presence of triblock copolymer, Pluronic F127 as the template with different concentrations at pH 7. The material was characterized by XRD, N2 adsorption/desorption, UV-Vis diffused reflectance, TGA-DTA and SEM. XRD and SEM results reveal that ZnAl2O4/ZnO was highly ordered nanocrystalline material. N2 adsorption/desorption studies indicate that the pore size and pore volume increased significantly with the increase in concentration of F127 copolymer template, while the surface area is slightly decreased with increase of F127 template. TGA-DTA results reveal that the thermal stability of material increased after adding F127 template. The material was tested for its photocatalytic activity for a solution containing methyl orange dye and the 95.6% decolorization was achieved within 1 h. The intensive absorption light observed by UV-Vis reflectance of the catalyst confirmed high activity of the catalyst and suggest the probable photocatalytic degradation mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most endocrinological disorder, in young reproductive age women, Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene variants have been associated with metabolic co-morbidities in population. This study was carried out to examine whether the polymorphisms of VDR gene are correlated with the risk of PCOS. Polycystic ovary syndrome women (n=50) and apparently healthy control subject (n=50), were enrolled genotyping of VDR gene SNPs (rs2228570, rs7975232 and rs731236) were determined by using Taqman genotyping assay. The results showed that the distribution of genotypes and alleles frequencies at rs2228570 SNP of VDR gene, as related with TT, TC and combined TC+CC genotypes, no significant differences in frequency percentage were noted between PCOS patients and apparently healthy subjects with polycystic ovary syndrome. Whereas, the frequency of CC genotype was significantly (p<0.05) lower in PCOS patients compared with apparently healthy group. The genotypes and alleles frequencies distribution at rs7975232 C>A polymorphism, the frequency of wild CC genotype was significantly (p<0.05) lower in patients with PCOS than in apparently healthy subjects. In contrast, the frequency of heterozygous CA genotype was significant (p<0.05) higher in patients with PCOS compared with apparently healthy subjects. The frequency of TT genotype at rs731236 T>C polymorphism was significant (p<0.05) lower in patients with PCOS than in apparently healthy subjects. While as related with TC, CC and combined TC+CC genotypes, no significant differences in frequency percentage were detected between PCOS patients and apparently healthy subjects. Further, the three VDR SNPs presented eight possible haplotypes, with TTA and TTC being the most common in both groups (patients and controls). In particular, the TCC haplotype showed significant (p<0.05) distribution in PCOS patients compared with apparently healthy control and the frequency of TTC / CCA haplotype combination was significantly (p<0.05) higher in patients with PCOS than in apparently healthy subjects. This study found that no association between both heterozygous and homozygous mutants at rs2228570 and rs731236 of VDR gene with the incidence of PCOS, while heterozygosity at rs7975232 of VDR gene showed a risk for PCOS development susceptibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among 60 fungal endophytes isolated from twigs, bark, and mature leaves of different plant species, two fungal isolates named TXD105 and TER995 were capable of producing paclitaxel in amounts of up to 84.41 and 37.92 μg L, respectively. Based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics, ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA sequence, and phylogenetic characteristic analysis, the two respective isolates were identified as Aspergillus fumigatus and Alternaria tenuissima. In the effort to increase paclitaxel magnitude by the two fungal strains, several fermentation conditions including selection of the proper fermentation medium, agitation rate, incubation temperature, fermentation period, medium pH, medium volume, and inoculum nature (size and age of inoculum) were tried. Fermentation process carried out in M1D medium (pH 6.0) and maintained at 120 rpm for 10 days and at 25 °C using 4% ( v/ v) inoculum of 5-day-old culture stimulated the highest paclitaxel production to attain 307.03 μg L by the A. fumigatus strain. In the case of the A. tenuissima strain, fermentation conditions conducted in flask basal medium (pH 6.0) and maintained at 120 rpm for 14 days and at 25 °C using 8% ( v/ v) inoculum of 7-day-old culture were found the most favorable to attain the highest paclitaxel production of 124.32 μg L. Using the MTT-based assay, fungal paclitaxel significantly inhibited the proliferation of five different cancer cell lines with 50% inhibitory concentration values varied from 3.04 to 14.8 μg mL. Hence, these findings offer new and alternate sources with excellent biotechnological potential for paclitaxel production by fungal fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil is considered to be a major reservoir of Burkholderia pseudomallei in the environment. This paper investigates soil physicochemical properties that may influence presence of B. pseudomallei in soil samples from small ruminant farms in Peninsular Malaysia. Soil samples were collected from the farms and cultured for B. pseudomallei. The texture, organic matter and water contents, pH, elemental contents, cation exchange capacities, carbon, sulfur and nitrogen contents were determined. Analysis of soil samples that were positive and negative for B. pseudomallei using multivariable logistic regression found that the odds of bacterial isolation from soil was significantly higher for samples with higher contents of iron (OR = 1.01, 95%CI = 1.00–1.02, p = 0.03), water (OR = 1.28, 95%CI = 1.05–1.55, p = 0.01) and clay (OR = 1.54, 95%CI = 1.15–2.06, p = 0.004) compared to the odds of isolation in samples with lower contents of the above variables. These three factors may have favored the survival of B. pseudomallei because iron regulates expression of respiratory enzymes, while water is essential for soil ecology and agent’s biological processes and clay retains water and nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the olfactory epithelium (OE), odorant metabolizing enzymes have the dual function of volatile component detoxification and active clearance of odorants from the perireceptor environment to respectively maintain the integrity of the tissues and the sensitivity of the detection. Although emphasized by recent studies, this enzymatic mechanism is poorly documented in mammals. Thus, olfactory metabolism has been characterized mainly in vitro and for a limited number of odorants. The automated ex vivo headspace gas-chromatography method that was developed here was validated to account for odorant olfactory metabolism. This method easily permits the measurement of the fate of an odorant in the OE environment, taking into account the odorant gaseous state and the cellular structure of the tissue, under experimental conditions close to physiological conditions and with a high reproducibility. We confirmed here our previous results showing that a high olfactory metabolizing activity of the mammary pheromone may be necessary to maintain a high level of sensitivity toward this molecule, which is critical for newborn rabbit survival. More generally, the method that is presented here may permit the screening of odorants metabolism alone or in mixture or studying the impact of aging, pathology, polymorphism or inhibitors on odorant metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micronucleus (MN) assay has been extensively used in detection of DNA damage, instability in cancer, and genetic disorders. In the current study, MN, binucleated cells, and nuclear division index (NDI) were investigated in Iraqi patients with thyroid disorders. The results indicated significantly ( p < 0.05) increased binucleated cells with micronucleus (BNMN) frequencies in thyroid cancer group (37.58 ± 3.07) versus other thyroid disorder groups (6.60 ± 1.29, 14.90 ± 1.69, 15.56 ± 1.76). On the other hand, the frequency of micronucleus per 1,000 and the NDI were significantly ( p < 0.05) decreased in hypothyroidism (MN 1.55 ± 0.36) (NDI 0.009 ± 0.001) versus other thyroid disorder groups (MN: 6.05 ± 0.97, 6.09 ± 0.53, 5.34 ± 0.56) (NDI: 0.049 ± 0.003, 0.032 ± 0.002, 0.025 ± 0.002), with no difference versus healthy group (0.0 ± 0.0). The number of BNMN and MN are parallel to the severity of thyroid disorders which were 6.60 ± 1.29, 14.90 ± 1.69, 15.56 ± 1.76, and 37.58 ± 3.07 for hypothyroidism, thyroid toxic goiter, thyroid nontoxic goiter, and thyroid cancer, respectively. The number of BNMN and MN are parallel to the severity of thyroid disorders which were 6.60 ± 1.29, 14.90 ± 1.69, 15.56 ± 1.76, and 37.58 ± 3.07 for hypothyroidism, thyroid toxic goiter, thyroid nontoxic goiter, and thyroid cancer, respectively. The results also indicate that there were no significant differences among age and sex groups as related with BNMN formation within each thyroid disorder groups and healthy control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acne is a very common condition and has a substantial impact on patients' quality of life. This study was carried out to determine the impact of acne and its clinical severity on health related quality of life in a group of patients attending private clinic in Erbil city, Iraq. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between July 1st, 2011 and November 1st, 2011. A convenience sample of 510 patients attending private clinic in Erbil city was taken. Verbal informed consent was obtained from all participants. The Cardiff acne disability index (CADI) was used in this study. Results: The sample included 510 patients (173 males and 337 females); their mean ± SD age was 20.08 ± 4.23 years (ranged from 11 to 36 years) with a male: female ratio of 0.41:1. The mean ± SD ages of males and females were 18.62 ±3.19 and 20.83 ±4.49 years, respectively (P<0.001). Results revealed that there is significant association between age and quality of life impairment (P<0.001), and it revealed that quality of life was more impaired (47.2%) among female than that (37.6%) among male patients (P = 0.038). There was significant association between grading of acne and QOL impairment (P<0.0001). Conclusions: Acne negatively affects quality of life, females were more affected than the males, age group 21-25 more than the other age groups and the greater the grade "severity" of acne, the greater the level of impairment of quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urinary incontinence is a common problem with serious effect on the quality of life. Bladder training aims to increase the interval between voids, either by a mandatory or self-adjustable schedule, so that incontinence is avoided. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of inpatient bladder retraining. A retrospective case-note analysis was conducted over a period of 24 months. Outcome measures were decrease in incontinence episode frequency (IEF) and nocturia and increase in interval between voids. Subjective improvement was assessed on a four-point scale. The study revealed statistically significant decrease in IEF and nocturia and increase in the interval between voids. Twenty-three percent was cured of their symptoms, 36% reported improvement, 27% did not find any change, whereas 14% reported that they were worse off their after bladder retraining. The study confirms the usefulness of inpatient bladder retraining as a treatment option, especially in people refractory to outpatient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence-based practice (EBP) has become an important competency in many allied and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) health care practitioners' professional standards of proficiency. Methods: To compliment an EBP course for allied health care professionals and CAM practitioners, we undertook a questionnaire survey to assess learning needs. We developed a questionnaire to measure allied health care professionals and CAM practitioners' basic knowledge, skills and beliefs concerning the main principles of EBP. The questionnaires were administered to all attendees of one-day EBP workshops. Results: During 2004-5 we surveyed 193 allied health care professionals and CAM practitioners who attended one-day EBP courses prior to commencement of teaching. Of the respondents 121 (62.7%) were allied health care professionals and 65 (33.7%) practitioners stated that they work in the CAM field. Our survey found that the majority of the respondents had not previously attended a literature appraisal skills workshop (87.3%) or received formal training in research methods (69.9%), epidemiology (91.2%) or statistics (80.8%). Furthermore, 67.1% of practitioners specified that they felt that they had not had adequate training in EBM and they identified that they needed more training and education in the principles of EBM (86.7%). Differences in knowledge and beliefs concerning EBP amongst allied and CAM practitioners were found and length of time since qualification was also found to be an important factor in practitioner's beliefs. More CAM practitioners compared to allied health professionals accessed educational literature via the Internet (95.3% v 68.1%, p = 0.008). Whilst, practitioners with more than 11 years experience felt that original research papers were far more confusing (p = 0.02) than their less experienced colleagues. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that practitioner's learning needs do vary according to the type of profession, time since graduation and prior research experience. Our survey findings are exploratory and will benefit from further replication, however, we do believe that they warrant consideration by allied health care and CAM tutors and trainers when planning EBP teaching curricula as it is important to tailor teaching to meet the needs of specific subgroups of trainees to ensure that specific learning needs are met. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protolytic equilibria often have profound effects on chemical activity, since protolytic species usually behave quite differently. It is therefore important to characterize the protolytic properties of important chemicals. Here we present a new approach to study protolytic equilibria of fluorescent species that is extremely accurate and relies on minimum assumptions. We show that by measuring 2-dimensional excitation/emission scans of samples at different pH, the 3-dimensional experimental data set, I(λex, λem, C(pH)), can be unambiguously decomposed into the spectral responses of the protolytic species present as well as their concentration. The approach is demonstrated on the protolytic equilibrium of fluorescein. Although the fluorescein monoanion cannot be obtained in pure form, the spectra and concentrations of both fluorescein species, as well as the protolytic constant, are determined with excellent accuracy. The proposed method is general and can be applied not only for studies of protolytic equilibria, but on any chemical equilibria and chemical reactions involving fluorescent species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer is a major health problem in women and early detection is of prime importance. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the role of diffusion-weighted imaging with background body signal suppression (DWIBS) in detection of breast lesions and characterization of these detected lesions. Patients and methods: 40 female patients with suspicious 50 breast lesions detected by sonomammography, in addition to the routine protocol that includes T1Wi’s, T2Wi’s, STIR, DCEMRI and DWI sequences (with ADC maps) all participants underwent DWIBS sequence (with ADC maps). The histopathology served as reference standard. First, we compared the detectability of breast lesions on DWIBS with that of the DWI. We then compared the ADCs of the malignant lesions (n = 35) to that of the benign lesions (n =15) in both DWI and DWIBS. Results: Thirty seven lesions were detected via DWIBS (detectability of 74.0%) which was less than that of DWI (detectability of 78.0%). In DWIBS, the mean ADC value of the malignant lesions (0.80 ± 0.27 x 10-3 mm² /s) was significantly lower than that of the benign lesions (1.40 ± 0.41 x 10-3 mm² /s). With a cut off value of 1.3 x 10-3 mm² /s for ADC, DWIBS achieved 85.7% sensitivity and 80% specificity for differentiating between benign and malignant lesions. Conclusion: Although it showed lower detectability for breast lesions than DWI, our study suggests that DWIBS is superior to DWI in the characterization of malignant breast lesions.. Also based on ADC, DWIBS provides additional information that may further increase the specificity of breast lesion characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: One of the nightmares of placing a shunt in patients with friable skin is an exposed shunt or shunt valve with risk of infection of the hardware which may lead to meningitis or ventriculitis with poor outcome. Another feared complication is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak from the wound with subsequent wound dehiscence. The patients at risk of shunt hardware exposure include children who have fragile skin or skin at risk (either from prematurity, malnutrition, steroid therapy or very large head with pressure on the skin). Method/Technique: This technique involves making a scalp incision with the pericranium taken in one layer with the galea or if the galeal flap has been raised, a pericranial incision is made and a pericranial flap is raised. A subpericranial pouch is developed and a shunt passer used to tunnel the shunt to the abdomen. The pericranial layer is closed, the galea and subcutaneous layer also approximated, and a continuous subcurticular stitch applied. Result: We present a malnourished infant with postinfective hydrocephalus having a thin skin requiring a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. A subpericranial technique was used and the patient did well. Conclusion: This technique is simple and provides a water-tight wound cover, with the pericranium giving reinforcement and better tensile strength, as well as a fairly good protection for the shunt valve. This is useful in preventing CSF leaks and exposure of the shunt with the associated morbidity and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nasogastric intubation is one of the most common routine nonoperative procedures available for the hospital care of patients. The insertion and removal of this tube is associated with many complications. The complications include trauma, nasal septal abscess and inadvertent entry into the cranial cavity and trachea, ulceration, bleeding from varices and perforation. Knotting of the nasogastric tube is one of the very rare complications of nasogastric intubation particularly in children. To the best of our knowledge there are very few reported cases in children. The technique used in the patient was the application of a steady tug which allows the lower oesophageal sphincter to open, therefore enabling the removal of the nasogastric tube. The possible predispositions to knotting of a nasogastric tube include small bore tubes, excess tube length and gastric surgery. We postulate that reduced gastric tone is another possible predisposing factor with head injury being the most likely reason in the index patient. We also challenge the fact that the small sized stomach is a risk factor for knotting of a feeding tube if the functional status and tone are normal, because of the rarity in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin B12 deficiency is uncommon in pregnancy, it occurs in 10-28% of uncomplicated pregnancies, and is associated with a few complications. We present a case report of a 21-year-old patient with severe anaemia during late pregnancy caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. At 38 weeks gestation and with a BMI of 48.9, a history of rupture of membranes was given but not confirmed. On examination, she appeared pale and therefore full blood counts were done. Interestingly her haemoglobin (Hb) levels were 3.7 g/dL. Folate and vitamin B12 levels were also found to be low, and the diagnosis of anaemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency was made. After treatment with vitamin B12 injections, folic acid and blood transfusions, the patient's haemoglobin levels improved from 3.7 g/dL to 10.7 g/dL. The conclusion is that effective history taking, diagnosis, and management can prevent many complications that are usually associated with vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]