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The Egyptian aquaculture sector is still struggling to establish L. vannamei culture. In an effort to stimulate shrimp production with minimal environmental impact and less water loss, biofloc technology (BFT) has been employed. Chronic mortality was recently observed in L. vannamei which was raised in the BFT system. Examining samples of moribund shrimp revealed sporadic melanization on the musculature and gills, suggesting the potential existence of black gill disease. The present work was carried out to isolate and identify potentially implicated fungus species based on mycological properties of interest. To isolate and serve as initial identification tools, wet mount preparations and colonial features, along with slide culture techniques, were used. PCR assays, gene sequencing, and phylogenetic analyses were used in the molecular identification process to clarify the confirmation of the fungal isolates that were acquired. The pathogenicity tests were designed to fulfil Koch's postulates in addition to clarifying the infectivity of isolated fungus. Moreover, histopathological examination was employed to notice tissues' alterations associated with experimentally infected shrimp. The results revealed the isolation of three fungal isolates, namely, BNS 1117, BNS 2117, and BNS 3117, that were confirmatively identified as Fusarium verticillioides, and their selected sequences were submitted to Genbank. Moreover, experimental infection using F. verticillioides selected isolate (BNS 31,117) at both high (5 × 105 CFU/mL, group A) and low (3 × 105 CFU/mL, group B) doses of its conidial suspensions experienced cumulative mortality of 72.2% and 21.1%, respectively. Besides, the selected isolate was re-isolated from the experimentally infected shrimp in a pure form, which satisfied Koch's postulates. Histopathological alterations demonstrated several degrees of either degenerative, oedema, or proliferative changes in the hepatopancreas, musculatures, and gills, respectively. This study sets a new record for F. verticillioides to be included in Fusarium species linked to shrimp mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dromedary camels can survive and reproduce in desert areas. The unique anatomical structure of the kidney enables the camel to prevent water loss. The present study aimed to investigate the ultrastructure of the peroxisomes in the normal kidney of the adult dromedary camel. Tissue samples were taken from the cortex and outer medulla of the kidney of eight camels. The samples were then processed for histological and ultrastructural investigations. The epithelial cells of the proximal tubules displayed peroxisomes with varying sizes and shapes. The peroxisomes were observed in either dispersed or clustered arrangement. Each peroxisome exhibited a homogenous matrix enveloped by a single membrane. Several peroxisomes exhibited one or more dark marginal plates that were always strongly associated with the smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The intensity of the peroxisomal matrix differed significantly, either within the same cell or across different cells. The intensity was light or dark, with a few peroxisomes presenting a similar intensity to that of the mitochondria. Some peroxisomes contained nucleoids within their matrix. The peroxisomes in the first and second sections of proximal convoluted tubules were scattered and primarily located in the region between the microvilli and the underlying mitochondria. The peroxisomes in the third region were abundant and frequently aggregated in clusters throughout the cytoplasm. In the fourth region, the number of peroxisomes was low. The proximal straight tubule had a limited quantity of peroxisomes. In conclusion, peroxisomes in the proximal tubule in kidney of normal dromedary camel were similar in shape and size to other mammals; however, heterogeneity exists as a result of differences in species‐specific peroxisomal proteins. Peroxisomes are suggested to be a major source of metabolic energy and act as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) scavengers, resulting in the release of water and oxygen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to investigate the internal and external biosecurity levels and their association with Mycoplasma gallisepticum infection in broiler farms in Khartoum State, Sudan. Sixty-six broiler farms were selected. A questionnaire of 77 questions on internal and external biosecurity measures was administered during each farm visit. A total of 360 blood samples were collected and used for serological examination to detect antibodies against M. gallisepticum. The overall score of biosecurity was 0.57, and the average score of internal biosecurity (0.75) was higher (p<0.01) than the average score of external biosecurity (0.51). Poor internal biosecurity practices were observed in 23.4% of broiler farms, whereas most farms (93.6%) recorded poor external biosecurity. A significant (p<0.01) positive correlation was encountered between the external biosecurity and the number of houses (0.62), as well as the number of workers (rs= 0.54). Both internal and external biosecurity displayed significant positive correlations with the number of birds (rs= 0.64, 0.35; p< 0.05). Fifty percent of the farms were positive for M. gallisepticum. The disease incidence correlated positively with the spread of manure on neighboring farms (rs= 0.44, p<0.05). A negative correlation was observed between the presence of Mycoplasma and the distance between farms (rs= -0.50, p<0.01) as well as farm enclosure (rs= -0.44, p<0.05). It is concluded that broiler farms in Khartoum State exhibited low biosecurity measures and a high seroprevalence of M. gallisepticum infection. Further efforts are necessary to improve external biosecurity practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saprolegniosis is a major concern in freshwater aquaculture, particularly hatcheries since it causes high mortality and economic losses. Various chemical compounds are used to treat the disease, but they are not recommended due to their hazard effects on fish, humans, and ecosystems. The current study assessed the potential anti-oomycetes activity of crude and aqueous extracts of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) against Saprolegnia australis (S. australis) and Achylia bisexualis (A. bisexualis) in vitro and in vivo. Both herb aqueous stock solutions were eventually prepared using the decoction method. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of both herbs' aqueous extracts were determined using the agar plate diffusion method. The ability of both herb aqueous extracts to kill the selected water molds was tested at various time points of exposure. Based on in vitro results, two in vivo field trials were planned to assess the efficacy of crude clove and thyme, first on the fecundity and hatchability of fertilized grass carp eggs. The second trial was designed to assess the antifungal potential against fungal infection during artificial egg incubation. Additionally, two experiments were planned to determine the toxicity parameters of each crude herb in grass carp fingerlings. The second experiment assessed the anti-saprolegniosis activity of selected crude herbs in artificially infected fingerlings. The results showed that S. australis and A. bisexualis were significantly inhibited at a 10% concentration in clove (0.8g/100mL) and thyme (3.2g/100mL) aqueous solutions. However, both herb aqueous extracts had fungicidal properties and killed both fungi at a 50% concentration of their stock solutions (4 and 16g/100mL of clove and thyme, respectively). Incubated eggs exposed to concentrations of 2 and 8g/L clove and thyme, respectively, exhibited high fecundity and hatchability rates. Furthermore, clove and thyme at concentrations of 2 and 4g/L could protect incubated eggs and fry from attack by S. australis and A. bisexualis, respectively. Clove and thyme at concentrations of 0.2-0.25 and 0.5-0.8g/L provided a safe indefinite bath, but at a concentration of 0.5 and 1g/L caused anesthesia after 24 hours of exposure. To successfully treat the infected Ctenopharyngodon idella (C. idella) fingerlings, the most effective doses were 0.25-0.5g/L for clove and 0.5g/L for thyme. Finally, clove and thyme in both crude and aqueous forms could introduce safe, low-cost, environmentally friendly, and easy applications into freshwater hatcheries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lectins are carbohydrate‐binding proteins that are highly selective for sugar groups on other molecules. Siglec5 is a cell‐surface lectin that belongs to the sialic acid‐binding Ig‐like lectins (Siglecs) and acts as a suppressor of immune responses. In this study, immunohistochemistry, western blotting and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) were used to detect the expression of Siglec5 in the male reproductive tract of dromedary camels during the rutting season. Siglec5 displayed strong immunostaining in the cranial and caudal testicular regions and moderate immunostaining in the rete testis. Different parts of the epididymis showed varying immunoreactions to Siglec5. The spermatozoa in the testes and epididymis also showed positive immunostaining for Siglec5, whereas, the vas deferens showed negative immunostaining for the protein. The results obtained by western blotting confirmed the immunohistochemical detection of the protein in the testicular and epididymal tissues. The results of qRT‐PCR showed that Siglec mRNA was expressed differently in each part of the testis and epididymis; the highest levels of expression were observed in the caudal part of the testis and in the head of the epididymis. In conclusion, the present study revealed that Siglec5 is mainly located in the testis and epididymis, where sperm production and maturation occur. Therefore, this protein may play an essential role in the development, maturation and protection of camel sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptococcus is a genus of spherical Gram-positive bacteria belonging to the phylum firmicutes and the lactic acid bacteria group. Members of the genus Streptococcus cause mild to severe bacterial illnesses in humans and animals. This work was designed to determine the biochemical, serological, and molecular characterization of Streptococci species isolated from cow`s milk, broilers chickens, and Nile tilapia. Bacteriological examination was carried out on 255 Samples (120 cow' milk, 65 broiler chickens, and 70 Nile tilapia) collected during the period from July 2010 to June 2013 from various localities in Beni-Suef Governorate, Egypt. Identification of the isolated strain revealed S. agalactiae, S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus, E. fecalis, S. iniae, E. avium and L. lactis subsp. Lactis were found in the isolated strains. Furthermore S. agalactiae (Lancefield group B), S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus (Lancefield group C) and E. faecalis (Lancefield group D) were found in the agglutination test for Lancefield groups. A multiplex PCR assay involves amplifying the multiple gene products in a single reaction using primers derived from 16S rRNA genes of S. agalacitae, S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus and lctO gene of S. iniae. The amplified products showed amplification of 220bp, 679bp and 870bp of amplification respectively. The sensitivity of streptococci species to antimicrobials exhibited that S. agalactiae, S equi subsp. zooepidemicus and S. iniae showed high sensitivity to both enrofloxacin, erythromycin followed by cephalexin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production and control of fish health safely together with living in harmony with the nature, natural substances considered as an important area for future developments in aquaculture. In this respect, the current study aimed to investigate the antibacterial activities of Trivir® (10% carvacrol), one of the major essential oils of oregano, against some fish pathogenic bacteria isolated from diseased catfish (C. gariepinus). Trivir® solution was designated to be used as broad-spectrum disinfectant for aquaculture according to the manufacture instructions. The antibacterial effects of the Trivir® were tested on clinical isolates of Aeromonas hydrophila, Enterococcus faecalis and Shewanella putrificans. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of carvacrol against Aeromonas hydrophila were estimated as 62 μg/ml, 125μg/ml for Shewanella putrificans and 250μg/ml for Enterococcus faecalis. At all tested levels, Trivir® showed no bactericidal activities against all tested clinical bacterial isolates. C. gariepinus exposed to 32, 62 and 125 μg/ml of Trivir® showed survival rates of 100% at all exposure times tested. On contrast, Trivir® showed its toxic effects at concentrations of 1000, 500, 250 μg/ml after exposure times of 15, 30 and 60 min causing 100% mortalities in catfish. In conclusion, carvacrol can be considered as an effective alternative for antibiotics usage in aquaculture with an ultimate competent health and safe environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Our aim was to characterize the ultrasonographic features of patients with acute Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) of the foot. Methods: In this prospective study, 26 patients with CN of the foot proved by MRI were enrolled. All patients were in early stage of CN with normal radiography (grade 0 modified Eichenholtz classification system). Ultrasonographic examination of mid-tarsal and ankle joints was performed with a 7–15 MHz linear probe. Results: Ages of our patients ranged from 38 to 67 years (57.3 ± 6.4). About 96.2% of our patients (25 patients) had diabetes mellitus. Ultrasonographic findings were as follows: effusion/synovitis (100%) with high Doppler activity (92.3%) in the mid-tarsal joints, and effusion/synovitis (92.3%) and high Doppler activity (84.6%) in the ankle joints. Bone erosions were present in the distal fibula in 23 patients (79.3%), while in distal tibia in 9 patients (34.6%). Tendonitis was found in tibialis posterior tendons in 23 patients (88.4%), and in peroneal tendons in 22 patients (84.6%). A combination of active synovitis (in mid-tarsal joints and ankle joints), active tendonitis (of tibialis posterior and peroneal tendons), and erosions in the distal end of fibula was present in 21 patients (80.8%). Conclusions: Ultrasonography is able to detect soft tissue inflammation and pre-radiographic bony changes in early stages of CN. Key Points •Ultrasound is a useful diagnostic tool for pre-radiographic stages of Charcot joint. •High-grade synovitis, high-grade tenosynovitis, and bony erosions are highly suggestive of Charcot arthropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to study the effects of synbiotic supplementation on Salmonella enterica ser. Enteritidis (SE) proliferation, cecal content load, and broiler carcass contamination. Lactobacillus reuteri, Enterococcus faecium, Bifidobacterium animalis, and Pediococcus acidilactici culture supernatants decreased (P < 0.05) the in vitro proliferation of SE at 1:1 supernatant: pathogen dilution. A total of 240 Cobb-500 broiler chicks were randomly allotted to three treatment groups (8 replicates/group with 10 birds/replicate): control (basal diet), antibiotic (Virginiamycin at 20 mg/kg feed), synbiotic (PoultryStar® ME at 0.5 g/kg feed containing L. reuteri, E. faecium, B. animalis, P. acidilactici and a Fructooligosaccharide) from day of hatch. At 21 d of age, all birds in experimental groups were orally inoculated with 250 μl of 1 X 109 CFU SE. Antibiotic supplementation increased (P < 0.05) body weight and feed consumption, compared to the control group. Birds in the synbiotic supplementation had intermediate body weight and feed consumption that were not significantly different from both the control and antibiotic group at 42 d of age in SE infected birds. No significant effects were observed in feed efficiency at 42 d of age among the groups. Antibiotic and synbiotic supplementation decreased (P < 0.05) SE load in cecal contents by 0.90 and 0.85 log units/ g and carcass SE load by 1.4 and 1.5 log units/mL of rinsate compared to the control group at 42 d of age (21 dpi). The relative abundance of IL-10, IL-1, TLR-4, and IFNγ mRNA was decreased (P < 0.05) in the antibiotic and synbiotic supplementation groups compared to the control birds at 42 d of age (21 dpi). It can be concluded that synbiotic supplementation decreased SE proliferation in vitro and decreased SE load in the cecal contents and broiler carcass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Plant Protection & Pathology 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.)

Fish with bacterial septicemic syndrome (BSS) exhibit very similar clinical signs regardless of the etiological agents. Members of Aeromonas, Pseudomonas, Vibrio, Edwardsiella, Streptococcus and Lactococcus species are considered the most reported bacterial pathogens incriminated in such syndrome. Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda and Streptococcus iniae are 3 major pathogens share in the BSS associated losses in aquaculture and considered problematic for growth of tilapia and catfish production in Egypt. Therefore, rapid and accurate diagnosis is highly needed for controlling their disease outbreaks, particularly, in mixed infections. In an attempt to elucidate the main causative pathogen, a novel multiplex PCR (m-PCR) was newly designed in this study. The developed m-PCR involves amplifying the three multiple genes in single reaction based upon primers deduced from the regions carrying 16S rRNA, etfA and 16S RNA genes of A. hydrophila (Aeromonas spp.), E. tarda and S. iniae, respectively. Prior to perform m-PCR, individual PCR assays were carried out to adapt suitable laboratory and m-PCR assays conditions. The specificity of the developed m-PCR was confirmed by the fact that only specific fragments were amplified equivalent for 953, 415 and 300 bp corresponding to A.hydrophila, E. tarda and S. iniae, respectively, and that was evident with both extracted DNAs and the bacterial cells. More specifically, these specific bands were obtained also when either the extracted DNAs or the bacterial cells of the three pathogens mixed together in the reaction. The developed m-PCR is accurate, sensitive, fast and simple technique for the simultaneous detection of A. hydrophila (Aeromonas spp.), E.tarda, and S. iniae, three major bacterial pathogens involved in BSS incidence in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Plant Protection & Pathology 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.)

Fish with bacterial septicemic syndrome (BSS) exhibit very similar clinical signs regardless of the etiological agents. Members of Aeromonas, Pseudomonas, Vibrio, Edwardsiella, Streptococcus and Lactococcus species are considered the most reported bacterial pathogens incriminated in such syndrome. Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda and Streptococcus iniae are 3 major pathogens share in the BSS associated losses in aquaculture and considered problematic for growth of tilapia and catfish production in Egypt. Therefore, rapid and accurate diagnosis is highly needed for controlling their disease outbreaks, particularly, in mixed infections. In an attempt to elucidate the main causative pathogen, a novel multiplex PCR (m-PCR) was newly designed in this study. The developed m-PCR involves amplifying the three multiple genes in single reaction based upon primers deduced from the regions carrying 16S rRNA, etfA and 16S RNA genes of A. hydrophila (Aeromonas spp.), E. tarda and S. iniae, respectively. Prior to perform m-PCR, individual PCR assays were carried out to adapt suitable laboratory and m-PCR assays conditions. The specificity of the developed m-PCR was confirmed by the fact that only specific fragments were amplified equivalent for 953, 415 and 300 bp corresponding to A.hydrophila, E. tarda and S. iniae, respectively, and that was evident with both extracted DNAs and the bacterial cells. More specifically, these specific bands were obtained also when either the extracted DNAs or the bacterial cells of the three pathogens mixed together in the reaction. The developed m-PCR is accurate, sensitive, fast and simple technique for the simultaneous detection of A. hydrophila (Aeromonas spp.), E.tarda, and S. iniae, three major bacterial pathogens involved in BSS incidence in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There is an unmet need from paediatric rheumatologists and rheumatologists, managing children with JIA, for a well formulated guidelines aiming at achieving better outcomes of their patients. To establish adequate and easily adopted guidelines in management of different variants of JIA in a relatively low resources country. Method This study was carried out to achieve an Egyptian expert consensus on a treat-to-target management strategy for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis using Delphi technique. The preliminary scientific committee identified a total of 17 key clinical questions according to the Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcomes (PICO) approach. An evidence-based, systematic, literature review was conducted to compile evidence for the benefits and harms associated with JIA treatments. The core leadership team identified researchers and clinicians with expertise in JIA management in Egypt upon which Experts were gathered from different governorates and health centres across Egypt. Delphi process was implemented (2-rounds) to reacha consensus on the management recommendations of Egyptian JIA patients. Results: An online questionnaire were sent to expert panel (n  = 27), of whom 26 participated in the two rounds. At the end of round 2, a total of eighteen (18) recommendation items, categorized into 4 sections to address the main 4 JIA categories, were obtained. Agreement with the recommendations (rank 7–9) ranged from 83.2–100% (average 86.8%). Consensus was reached (i.e. ≥75% of respondents strongly agreed or agreed) on the wording of all the 18 clinical standards identified by the scientific committee. Algorithms for the management of JIA polyarthritis, oligoarthritis and systemic JIA have been suggested. Conclusion A wide and representative panel of experts established a consensus regarding the management of JIA in Egypt. The developed guidelines provide a comprehensive approach to the management of JIA for ll Egyptian healthcare professionals who are involved in its management for follow up and frequent evaluation of these guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Cancer is a serious clinical problem to the health care system. Anticancer drugs have been extracted from plants containing phenolic compounds. Leucenia species (Fabaceae) contain a variety of bioactive components of numerous biological and pharmacological properties. Objective: This study explored the constitutive polyphenols of Leucenia leucocephala Lam. growing in Egypt and evaluated the antioxidant and cytotoxic activity. Materials and methods: Chemical structures of the isolated compounds from the leaves of L. leucocephala were established by spectral techniques (UV, 1H, and 13C NMR, MS). Results: Chromatographic separation of 80% MeOH extract of the leaves of L. leucocephala have resulted in a novel flavonoid-galloyl glycoside [myricetin 3- O-(2′,3′4′-tri- O-galloyl)-α- l-rhamnopyranoside] with three known polyphenolic compounds isolated for the first time from this species (apigenin 7- O-β- d-glucuronopyranoside methyl ester, luteolin 7- O-β- d-glucuronopyranoside methyl ester, and 1,3,6-tri- O-galloyl-β- d-glucopyranose) and seven known previously isolated compounds. Also, 80% methanol extract exhibited high antioxidant activity (SC50 == 3.94 µg/ml), which is correlated with its phenolic content. The extract also showed cytotoxic activity against Hep G2 (IC50 value 1.41 µg/ml) confirming its anticancer activity against hepatocellular carcinoma. Among the tested compounds ( 4-8) for antioxidant property, compound 7 was the most active compound (SC50 == 2.49 µg/ml). Also compounds 7 and 8 exhibited high cytotoxic activity (IC50 == 2.41 and 2.81 µg/ml, respectively). Discussion and conclusion: These findings demonstrate that the leaves of L. leucocephala contain a considerable amount of polyphenolic compounds with high antioxidant properties, thus it has great potential as a source for natural health products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fluoroscopic visualization for transvenous pacing lead placement necessitates lead shielding to minimize radiation exposure. An electromagnetic (EM) navigation system that integrates real-time intracardiac tracking within an anatomic navigation environment may provide an effective alternative for lead delivery that obviates live fluoroscopy. We assessed feasibility of pacing lead implantation with electromagnetic tracking guided solely by radiographic virtual navigation and compared this to fluoroscopy-guided implants in a canine model. Methods: Seven mongrel dogs with normal hearts were randomized to 47 pacing lead placements in the right atrium (RA) or right ventricle (RV) guided by single-plane fluoroscopy, or an experimental EM navigation system guided by registered fluoroscopic snapshots obtained before implant (EMN). Ability to achieve successful lead delivery acutely was assessed, and pacing parameters as well as fluoroscopy and implant times were measured. Means were compared using a paired t-test. Results: All lead delivery attempts were acutely successful. One atrial lead dislodged with EMN, resulting in 46 successful pacing attempts. There was no statistical difference in pacing parameters and time for lead placement between the approaches (EMN vs fluoroscopic navigation [mean ± SD]: RA threshold 1.15 V ± 0.98 V vs 1.95 V ± 0.98 V [P = NS], RV threshold 1.18 V ± 0.58 V vs 1.42 V ± 0.63 V [P = NS], implant time 4:38 ± 2:37 minutes vs 4:44 ± 2:38 minutes [P = NS]). No live fluoroscopy was required for EMN implants. Conclusion: Pacing lead placement with an EM system guided by preprocedural fluoroscopic views is feasible and comparable to fluoroscopic navigation, and avoids the use of live fluoroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) can increase risk of left atrial (LA) thrombi and stroke. Optimal periprocedural anticoagulation has not been determined. Objective: We report the role of administering warfarin and aspirin without low molecular weight heparin in patients undergoing AF ablation. Methods: A total of 207 patients underwent ablation for AF. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) guided transseptal puncture and ruled out clot in the LA. After first puncture, the sheath was flushed with heparin (5,000 Units/mL). After second puncture, a bolus of 80 units/kg of heparin was given, followed by an infusion to maintain activated clotting time (ACT) around 300–350 seconds. Warfarin was stopped and aspirin was started (325 mg/day) 3 days preprocedure. Warfarin was restarted on the day of the procedure. Both medications were continued for 6 weeks postablation. Warfarin was continued for 6 months in patients with prior history of persistent or recurrent AF. Thirty-seven patients who showed smoke in the LA on TEE were given low molecular weight heparin postprocedure until international normalized ratio (INR) was therapeutic. Results: Thirty-two patients had persistent and 175 had paroxysmal AF; 87 were cardioverted during ablation. Two patients had transient ischemic attack (TIA) on the sixth and eighth days, respectively, following ablation, with complete recovery. Both had subtherapeutic INRs. Conclusion: In patients without demonstrable clot or smoke in the LA, starting aspirin 3 days prior and warfarin immediately post-radiofrequency ablation, without low molecular weight heparin, with meticulous anticoagulation during the procedure, appears to be a safe mode of anticoagulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors of the original version of the above article requested the following corrections be noted in Patients and methods, Ultrasonographic examination and Fig. 1 and 2 (legend) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemotactic and chemokinetic activities in zoospores of Saprolegnia parasitica NJM 8604 (= H2) were examined using various amino acids, carbohydrates, fatty acids, and fish tissue extracts to estimate one of the important factors for attachment of zoospores to their host. All the tested six amino acids showed strong chemotactic reactions whereas carbohydrates and fatty acids caused moderate or strong chemotactic reactions. The chemokinetic activities against amino acids and carbohydrates were moderate or weak, whereas almost all fatty acids showed negative chemokinetic responses. Almost all tested fish tissue showed moderate chemotactic response and weak or moderate chemokinetic responses. Generally, chemotactic activity was strong in the amino acids, and the strongest activity was observed in alanine. Based on these facts, we considered that zoospores may react against amino acids of the fish body to attach and establish their colonization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The present study was conducted to evaluate the pathogenicity and pathology of Saprolegnia salmonis NJM 9851 and Saprolegnia parasitica NJM 9868, isolated from outbreaks of saprolegniosis, against the immature stages of five species of salmonids. The cumulative mortalities of the tested fish groups that were exposed to 2 × 10 5 spore/L concentrations of S. salmonis NJM 9851 were 90% for brown trout, 93.3% for sockeye salmon and 100% for rainbow tout, masu salmon, and Japanese char. In contrast, all salmonid species exposed to 2 × 10 5 spore/L concentrations of S. parasitica NJM 9868 experienced cumulative mortalities of 100%. The histopathological changes of the saprolegniosis lesions found in all sites of infection were loss of the epidermis, edema of the hypodermis and different degrees of degenerative changes in the underlying musculature. It is clear from our results that S. salmonis NJM 9851 and S. parasitica NJM 9868 are highly pathogenic species to five species of salmonid fishes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background IgAvasculitis (IgAV) is the commonest cause of vasculitis in childhood. It is characterized by small vessel vasculitis of the skin, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, joints, and, rarely, the lungs and the central nervous system. There is paucity of international guidelines for management of IgA V. the Objective is to develop guidelines specific for Egyptian children with IgA vasculitis. Method This study was carried out to achieve an Egyptian expert consensus on a treat-to-target management strategy for IgA vasculitis using Delphi technique. The preliminary scientific committee identified a total of 16 key clinical questions according to the Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcomes (PICO) approach. Delphi process was implemented (2-rounds) to reach a consensus. Results An online questionnaire were sent to expert panel (n  = 26) who participated in the two rounds. At the end of round 2, a total of 20 recommendation items, categorized into 2 sections were obtained. Agreement with the recommendations (rank 7–9) ranged from 91.7–100%. Consensus was reached (i.e. ≥75% of respondents strongly agreed or agreed) on the wording of all the 20 clinical standards identified by the scientific committee. Algorithms for the management have been suggested. Conclusion This was an expert, consensus recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of IgA V and IgA V nephritis, based on best available evidence and expert opinion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is the most common monogenic auto-inflammatory disease, with the highest prevalence amongst Mediterranean countries including Egypt (where there is high carrier rate of MEFV gene), characterized by recurrent attacks of fever and polyserositis. Mutations in the MEFV gene encoding pyrin has been associated with the disease, which causes exaggeration of the inflammatory response through uncontrolled interleukin production. Issuing updated treatment recommendations are vital for the treating healthcare professionals to get well acquainted with its diagnosis & treatment. To produce consensus-based recommendations to guide the early diagnosis, management and follow-up of patients with FMF. Methods The Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcomes (PICO) questions were developed and refined by the core team. A qualitative synthesis of scientific evidence based on systematic review and clinical experience was conducted to compile evidence for the diagnosis and management of FMF. A consensus process was conducted among the expert panel to generate the final recommendations and grade their strength. 3 rounds of Delphi process were carried out. Results Following 3 Delphi rounds, recommendations were developed for: early diagnosis, who to treat, treatment targets, genetic testing and its interpretation in association with clinical presentation, treatment of FMF and dealing with acute attacks, monitoring of management, identify treatment response, systemic affection, persistent attacks or inflammation, resistant cases, protracted symptoms, as well as remission status. Algorithm for patients' diagnosis and management is provided. The final document comprises 12 recommendations, each presented with its degree of agreement (0–10), Level of agreement, grade of recommendation and rationale. The degree of agreement was >7/10 in all instances. Conclusion This guideline provides comprehensive approach to the accurate diagnosis and effective management/monitoring of FMF. It also represents a model for the incorporation of medical genetics practice into the more traditional domains of general medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented about a study of the susceptibility of Candida species to the echinocandin, anidulafungin, in patients with suspected candidiasis or candidaemia.

We present a case of flecainide-induced hyponatremia in a 67-year-old woman who was treated for paroxysmal atrial tachycardia. She developed dizziness after starting flecainide and was found to be hyponatremic with a sodium level of 122 mmol/L (decreased from 136 mmol/L). Work-up failed to reveal other causes of hyponatremia. She was not on diuretics, laxatives, or herbal medications. After discontinuation of flecainide, her symptoms and sodium levels improved. Hyponatremia is a previously unrecognized entity as an adverse effect of flecainide. We will discuss the clinical presentation, lab findings, and a possible explanation for this patient's unusual reaction to flecainide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]