Search

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

Objective: In epilepsy, early diagnosis, accurate determination of epilepsy type, proper selection of antiseizure medication, and monitoring are all essential. However, despite recent therapeutic advances and conceptual reconsiderations in the classification and management of epilepsy, serious gaps are still encountered in day‐to‐day practice in Egypt as well as several other resource‐limited countries. Premature mortality, poor quality of life, socio‐economic burden, cognitive problems, poor treatment outcomes, and comorbidities are major challenges that require urgent actions to be implemented at all levels. In recognition of this, a group of Egyptian epilepsy experts met through a series of consecutive meetings to specify the main concepts concerning the diagnosis and management of epilepsy, with the ultimate goal of establishing a nationwide Egyptian consensus. Methods: The consensus was developed through a modified Delphi methodology. A thorough review of the most recent relevant literature and international guidelines was performed to evaluate their applicability to the Egyptian situation. Afterward, several remote and live rounds were scheduled to reach a final agreement for all listed statements. Results: Of 278 statements reviewed in the first round, 256 achieved ≥80% agreement. Live discussion and refinement of the 22 statements that did not reach consensus during the first round took place, followed by final live voting then consensus was achieved for all remaining statements. Significance: With the implementation of these unified recommendations, we believe this will bring about substantial improvements in both the quality of care and treatment outcomes for persons with epilepsy in Egypt. Plain Language Summary: This work represents the efforts of a group of medical experts to reach an agreement on the best medical practice related to people with epilepsy based on previously published recommendations while taking into consideration applicable options in resource‐limited countries. The publication of this document is expected to minimize many malpractice issues and pave the way for better healthcare services on both individual and governmental levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global public health threat with variable geographical distribution. Chronic infection with HBV could be complicated by chronic hepatitis state, progression to liver cirrhosis, and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). For years, the magnitude of HBV problem in Egypt was masked by the great prevalence of hepatitis C virus in the country. The exact epidemiological data regarding HBV in Egypt are defective. The prevalence rate of HBV in Egypt has declined after the universal immunization program introduced for infants in 1992. This review addresses the whole story of HBV in Egypt: the epidemiology, risk factors, vaccination programs, and treatment efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the world, Ralstonia solanacearum, the second most harmful bacterial phytopathogen, poses a serious danger to potato crop by causing brown rot disease, which can result in losses of up to 100%. For that, this study aims to isolate and identify of pathogenic bacteria causing brown rot disease and biocontrol it using ZnONPs synthesized by fungal strain. Eighteen infected potato cv. Cara samples were collected from different six regions of El-Minya governorate, Egypt. Isolation, identification, and pathogenicity tests were done for the most common pathogenic bacteria. Also, 18 native agricultural soil samples from 6 regions of El-Minya governorate, Egypt. Additionally, isolation and identification of the most common fungal isolate can synthesize ZnONPs. Mycosynthesized ZnONPs were characterized by UV, TEM, SEM, EDX, XRD, FTIR, Zeta potential, and particle size. Cytotoxicity test for mycosynthesized ZnONPs was done to determine the safety level of obtained nanoparticles which its dominant spherical or hexagonal shapes and small in size at 42.2 ± 3.0 nm. Results showed that the pathogenic bacterial isolate was identified using morphological, biochemical, and molecular as Ralstonia solanacearum (OR533702). Also, 16 fungal isolates were isolated and the most common was selected and identified as Epicoccum nigrum (OR533699) using microscopic, macroscopic, and molecular identification. Additionally, the result showed the selected fungal strain E. nigrum has high efficacy with inhibition zone diameter (2.20 ± 0.20) mm at 100 μg/ mL (5mM) against R. solanacearum. This study concluded that mycosynthesized ZnONPs have a potent effect against R.solanacearum compared to Revanol 50% as a traditional product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leptospirosis is caused by pathogenic bacteria of the genus Leptospira and is one of causative agents of reproductive problems leading to negative economic impact on bovine worldwide. The goal of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in cattle in some governorates of Egypt's Nile Delta and assess the risk factors for infection. A total of 410 serum samples were collected from cattle and examined using microscopic agglutination test. The overall seroprevalence was 10.2% and the most prevalent serovars were Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona and Canicola. In addition, the potential risk factors were associated Leptospira spp. infection were age, herd size, history of abortion, presence of dogs and rodent control. Thus, leptospirosis is common in dairy cattle in the Nile Delta and the presence of rodents in feed and dog-accessible pastures increases the risk of Leptospira spp. infection among animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) is a disease that affects ruminants globally, including camels, and causing significant financial losses. The epidemiology of BVD in camels in Egypt are not well understood. Thus, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of anti-BVD virus (BVDV) antibodies in camels and identify the potential variables associated with the infection. A total of 400 camel sera from three Egyptian governorates were examined using commercial ELISA kit. The total seroprevalence was 4.8% in examined camels and the BVDV seropositivity were more prevalent in camels from Giza governorate. The highest seropositivity was found in aged camels more than 8 years (OR = 8.62, 95%CI: 1.03–71.87), camels from herd size less than 30 (OR = 4.20, 95%CI: 0.89–19.78), previously aborted animals (OR = 5.98, 95%CI: 2.12–16.92), and in animals kept in contact with sheep or goats (OR = 7.48, 95%CI: 2.56–21.86). Consequently, the camels may be a significant source of BVD infection for other ruminant animals in the same herd due to their susceptibility to the viral infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Simple Summary: Cystic echinococcosis is a zoonotic helminthic disease that causes severe economic losses. The prevalence of hydatidosis was 21.7% in examined camels. Camels' liver infections were rare, whereas their lung infections were more common. By comparing to non-infected camels, the level of malondialdehyde (MAD) was significantly increased with hydatid cysts infection, while the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and (catalase) CAT were significantly decreased. The histopathological sections of camel cyst revealed layered membranes surrounded by a zone of cellular infiltration and an outermost fibrous tissue reaction. In addition, there was evidence of atelectasis, emphysema, hemorrhage, congestion, and fibrosis in the surrounding tissues. (1) Background: Cystic echinococcosis is a zoonotic helminth disease that causes severe economic losses. The study aimed to assess the prevalence and viability of cystic echinococcosis in examined camels. In addition, assessing the histological, morphological, oxidative, and antioxidant state related to the cystic echinococcosis infection; (2) Methods: The study was performed on 152 slaughtered dromedary camels between March and September 2022 at El-Basatin abattoir in Cairo Governorate, Egypt; (3) Results: The results revealed that the prevalence of hydatidosis was 21.7% in slaughtered camel and the highest infection rate observed in lungs was 87.87%, while it was 9% in livers. Camels' liver infections were rare, whereas their lung infections were more common. By comparing to non-infected camels, the level of MAD was significantly increased with hydatid cysts infection, while the level of GSH, SOD and CAT was significantly decreased. Histopathological section of camel cyst revealed layered membranes surrounded by a zone of cellular infiltration and an outermost fibrous tissue reaction. In addition, there was evidence of atelectasis, emphysema, hemorrhage, congestion, and fibrosis in the surrounding tissues. Nonetheless, the degeneration and necrosis of hepatocytes and other pathological alterations in liver cyst sections were remarkably comparable to those seen in the lungs. Furthermore, calcification was detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal production is greatly affected by Q fever. As a result of a lack of methodology and financial means to perform extensive epidemiological surveys, the disease's underdiagnosis has proven to be a challenge for effective control. The present study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of C. burnetii in cattle raising in four governorates situated at Nile Delta of Egypt and assess the associated risk factors for infection. A total of 480 serum samples were collected from cattle and examined for presence of anti-C. burnetii antibodies using indirect ELISA assay. The overall seroprevalence of C. burnetii among examined cattle was 19.8%, with the Qalyubia governorate having the highest prevalence. The results of multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed significant association between C. burnetii seropositivity and age, communal grazing and/or watering, contact with small ruminants and history of infertility. According to the findings of this work, C. burnetii is circulating among cattle living in Nile Delta. It is suggested that adequate hygiene procedures and biosecurity measures should be implemented to limit the transmission of pathogens within cow herds and potential human exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

In this investigation, fifty-five chicken livers and washing water samples were gathered from the small-scale poultry processing plants in Cairo and Giza governorate, Egypt. Salmonella occurrence was detected, identified, and finally phenotypically characterized for the most common antibiotic groups to detect its antibiotic resistance profiles. Salmonella species have been recovered from 1 out of 45 (2.2%) examined chicken livers. This isolate was biochemically identified and molecularly verified such as Salmonella by the invA gene detection using PCR. The Salmonella serovar was recognized as S. Anatum. The isolated S. Anatum showed resistance to ten antimicrobial agents among six antimicrobial classes, so this isolate was classified as MDR. Its resistance was against gentamicin, ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, cefepime, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, and aztreonam. In conclusion, chicken livers were contaminated with MDR Salmonella serovars, which could be extremely dangerous for human health. To control such food poisoning hazards, the necessity to implement food safety systems is imperative. Additionally, continuous updating of the occurrence and antibiotic resistance profile regarding Salmonella is an important food safety issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is one of the most prevalent parasites to affect humans and animals; (2) Methods: From January to December 2020, using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit, a cross-sectional study was conducted to establish the seroprevalence of T. gondii in 390 dromedary camels raised in three governorates in Egypt and to identify the potential risk factors associated with infection; (3) Results: Overall, T. gondii seroprevalence in camels was 46.9%. Moreover, locality, sex, age, contact with small ruminants, history of abortion, and number of parities were found as risk factors for T. gondii infection in univariable analysis. The seropositivity to T. gondii increased significantly in camels living in Marsa Matrouh (OR = 2.02), among camels of more than 8 years old (OR = 5.28). Additionally, the likelihood of acquiring T. gondii infection was increased in camels that had contact with small ruminants (OR = 3.85) and a history of abortion (OR = 3.84) with these having parity more than four times (OR = 17.72); (4) Conclusions: The evaluation of seroprevalence and related risk factors for T. gondii infection is crucial for implementing an effective control programme to minimise and control T. gondii infection in camels and, as a result, transmission to humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the treatment progress of acute leukemias, neurological complications (NCs) can occur and may have a detrimental impact on the outcome. Aim: To study the pattern and outcome of NCs occurring during treatment of pediatric acute leukemias in Upper Egypt and to study possible factors influencing their outcomes. Methods: Children with AL who developed NCs during treatment were included. Patients with central nervous system (CNS) infiltration at diagnosis and those with any neurological insults before diagnosis were excluded. Data were retrospectively collected from patient files and included NCs, their outcome, and possible associated factors. Results: Neurological complications occurred in 89 out of 537 (16.6%) reviewed patients. Age was = 10 years in 47.2% of patients, acute lymphoblastic leukemia was the most common diagnosis (77.5%) and the majority (77.9%) were classified as high-risk. Almost half of the patients suffered from NCs during the induction phase of treatment. Motor deficits and seizures were the most frequent manifestations. Neurovascular causes and peripheral neuropathy constituted 27% and 21.3% of the etiology. Other causes included CNS relapse (19.1%), seizures due to systemic causes (13.5%), CNS infections (12.4%), and leukoencephalopathy (6.7%). The treatment phase and recovery time differed significantly according to the type of NCs. The outcome of NCs was complete recovery in 67.4% of the patients, incomplete recovery in 7.9%, and no recovery and death in 24.7%. The etiology of NCs was the only factor that had a significant correlation with the outcome of the patients. Conclusions: Neurological complications during treatment occur in a significant proportion of pediatric patients with acute leukemia in South Egypt. Neurovascular causes and peripheral neuropathy are the most common NCs, and CNS hemorrhage is the most fatal. Supportive measures for these NCs must be optimized to improve outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Little is known about the persistence of symptoms after clearance of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study aimed to assess persistent symptoms in COVID-19 patients after clearance of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methodology: A multi-center survey was conducted on first wave COVID-19 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, including presenting symptoms and persistent symptoms after viral clearance and possible factors contributing to persistence of such symptoms, were collected using an online multicomponent questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was performed to detect the most persisting symptoms and factors contributing to their persistence. Results: Overall, 538 patients were enrolled. Mean age was 41.17 (±SD 14.84), 54.1% were males, and 18.6% were smokers. Hypertension and diabetes were the most reported co-morbidities. Mild symptoms were reported in 61.3% of patients, 51.3% were admitted to hospital and 6.5% were admitted to the intensive care unit. Our study identified 49 types of persisting symptoms. Fatigue (59.1%), sense of fever (46.5%), anorexia (24.3%) and diarrhea (24.3%) were the most commonly reported persisting symptoms followed by loss of taste and smell (22.3%), headache (21.4%), cough (20.8) and dyspnea (21%). The use of hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin and multivitamins were significantly associated with persistence of symptoms (OR = 8.03, 8.89 and 10.12, respectively). Conclusion: Our study revealed that in COVID-19 recovered patients, many patients reported persistence of at least one symptom, particularly fatigue and sense of fever. Follow-up of patients after discharge from hospital is recommended until complete resolution of symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anaplasma platys is a tick-borne bacterium which infects blood platelets of dogs, causing canine cyclic thrombocytopenia. The disease is distributed worldwide, particularly in the tropics and subtropics, but information on the epidemiology of A. platys infection in dogs is fragmentary in many countries, including Egypt. In this study, we investigated the prevalence and risk factors associated with A. platys infection in dogs from Egypt. Methods: A conventional PCR targeting a fragment of the 16S rRNA gene of A. platys was used to screen 500 dogs from five North Egyptian governorates. DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were performed for one of the positive samples. Results: The overall prevalence of A. platys in the studied dogs was 6.4%. Females of the German shepherd breed without veterinary care had higher odds for A. platys positivity. High tick infestation and lack of anti-tick treatment were also identified as risk factors for A. platys infection. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the sequence obtained herein was closely related to sequences from Egypt, South Africa and Uruguay. Conclusions: This is the first large-scale epidemiological study of A. platys in Egypt, where female German shepherd dogs without veterinary care, as well as dogs with high tick infestation and without anti-tick treatment are at a higher risk of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine Ehrlichiosis is caused by Ehrlichia canis, an obligate intracellular bacterium. In Egypt, the epidemiology data about Ehrlichia canis is very limited and the molecular characterization of the organism has not been identified. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to study the prevalence of E. canis among 400 examined Egyptian dogs based on PCR assay and subsequently analyze the results by the logistic regression model. Furthermore, the molecular characterization of the Egyptian strain of E. canis was investigated. Generally, the prevalence of E. canis among dogs was 9.7%. The age, veterinary care, tick infestation, and antiparasitic treatment have a significant effect on the prevalence of E. canis in dogs as the prevalence rate was higher in older dogs (11.8%) and heavily infested dogs with ticks (10.3%) but lower in dogs received veterinary care (7.5%) and antiparasitic treatment (4.2%). In contrast, the sex, breed, and health status of dogs showed no significant role in the infection with E. canis. Sequence analysis of 16S rRNA for the Egyptian strain of E. canis revealed 100% identity with that of the American strain of E. canis and represented in one clade as obtained with a phylogenetic tree. The present study is the first study on molecular characterization of the Egyptian strain of E. canis, according to our knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Movement disorders are common neurological problems, but epidemiological studies are lacking in our locality. Type of movement disorder depends on the site of the lesion and the type of pathologic changes. Objective: To estimate the prevalence rate of dystonia, chorea, and athetosis, in Al Quseir City (Red Sea Governorate), Egypt. Methods: This study is a part of a door to door survey of major neurological disorders that was conducted in Al Quseir City, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt, on a sample size of 33,285 subjects. Theywere screened through 3 neurologists and 15 social workers. Then, each of the three staff members of neurology subjected positive cases to meticulous clinical evaluation separately. Results: Thirteen cases with dystonia, 7 cases with chorea and 5 cases with athetosis were found with prevalence rates of 39/100,000, 21/100,000, and 15/100,000 respectively. Conclusion: Prevalence rates of dystonia, chorea, and athetosis in Al Quseir City are higher than those of the worldwide. This may be attributed to some specific environmental factors of this locality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cryptosporidium parvum is a dangerous intestinal pathogen due to its devastating effect on immunocompromised individuals. Considering low efficacy, high toxicity in addition to the development of resistance for the drugs used, this study aimed to find a new alternative treatment having the advantage of lower doses and minimal toxicity. We used a novel combination between artesunate loaded polymeric nanofiber (ALPN) and nanazoxide that had not been tried yet. Methods: Sixty Swiss Albino mice aged 6-7 wk, weighting 20-24 gm were used in Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI) Cairo, Egypt in 2017. C. parvum oocysts collected from patients were identified by polymerase chain reaction to be used for infecting animals. The effect of combination between ALPN and nanazoxide were assessed by oocyst count in stool of experimental animals using modified Ziehl-Neelsen stain and histopathological changes in intestinal tissue. Antioxidant activity of nanofiber-loaded artesunate was estimated in serum, renal, hepatic and intestinal tissues by demonstrating the reactive oxygen species and the total antioxidant capacity. It was confirmed by detection of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) antibody. Results: The novel combination between ALPN and nanazoxidehas a harmonizing effect in reducing oocyst shedding (94.4%), the mean value of the antioxidant levels in liver, intestine, kidney, and serum were the highest level (10.15, 22.4, 6.22, 14.08 respectively) resulting in the decrease of oxidative stress in tissues. Marked improvement of histopathological features was obtained. Conclusion: This combination has a promising therapeutic effect against cryptosporidiosis particularly in immunocompromised individuals considering minor toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultured seabass (Dicentrarchuslabrax L.) and seabream (Sparusaurata L.) are marine species of high economic important especially in Mediterranean aquaculture. Among bacterial diseases of marine cultured and wild fish, vibriosis caused by Vibrio species is one of the most prevalent disease. In the present work, we report the isolation and identification of the V. harveyi and V. alginolyticus, based on biochemical and molecular characterization, from cultured seabass and seabream native to private fish farms at Mathalath-El Diba region, Domitte City at Domitte Governorate, Egypt during summer season. The most prominent clinical signs of diseased fish were hemorrhagic ulceration on the dorsal musculature and caudal peduncle area as well as sever protrusion of the eye outside the orbital cavity. Histological examination of seabass revealed haemorrhages on the liver and nodular formation on different organs especially in the kidney and liver. While, diseased seabream showed marbling appearance of the gills with nodular formation and necrotic area distributed over the liver. Physico-chemical characteristics of water samples collected parallel to fish samples indicated that pH and organic matter of the water sample was within the permissible limits. However, the unionized ammonia, nitrate, and hydrogen sulphate concentrations were higher than the acceptable limits. Moreover, the heavy metals (copper, zinc, and cadmium, lead, mercury, nickel, and iron) contained of water samples were higher than permissible limits. In regards to the haematological parameters associated with diseased and apparently healthy seabream and seabass. The total protein, albumin, and globulin were lower in diseased seabass and seabream than apparently healthy fish. Serum lysozyme and bactericidal activity was lower in the diseased fish than apparently healthy seabass and seabream. Levels of aspartate amino-transferase (S.AST) and alanine amino transferase (S.ALT) in plasma of diseased seabass and seabream were higher than apparent healthy seabass and seabream. Altogether, higher level of heavy metal concentrations in water samples than the permissible limits act as chemical stressors that help in increase the prevalence of V. harveyi and V. alginolyticus species in seabass and seabream. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic and related distancing measures have affected the sexual health in both males and females. These harm effects might be caused due to psychological factors. Although the impact of COVID-19 on the sexual health is variable among different countries, it is not studied well in Egypt. This study aims to investigate how the social distancing measures that was taken by the Egyptian government during the COVID-19 health crisis, affect the family situation, and sexual relationship. An international online survey was conducted to evaluate the sexual and reproductive health and wellbeing in times of the COVID-19 crisis in Egypt. An online informed consent was obtained from all participants. The survey was available in the Arabic language for only Egyptian citizens and/or residents who are speaking Arabic and older than 18 years old. This survey has been a part of the I-SHARE (International Sexual Health And REproductive Health) Survey that examines the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on sexual and reproductive health. Participation in this survey was anonymous. Total respondents were 1021 with 53.2% (544/1021) were males. Most participants were young age (age 21-30, 31-40 years were 41.9, 29.9 % respectively). Participants were mainly from the Large Cairo (24.5%) and Delta (15.2%) provinces with most of them were Muslim (91.2%). 40.5% were legally married and living together. As regards the COVID-19 social distancing measures, they follow them a lot and very strictly follow 37.3, 33 % respectively.77.4% never undergone testing for COVID-19 and only 9% was tested positive. More than half (56.5%) reported that the economic situation become worse during the social distancing measures. Alcohol and Cannabis intake were (6, 4.2% monthly or less, 5.6, 4% 2-4 times/month) respectively before the social distancing measures, and were increased during the distancing measures (8, 5.7% monthly or less, 7, 8.1% 2-4 times/month) respectively. Satisfaction about sexual life was changed from (45.1% very satisfied, 26.2% somewhat satisfied) before the COVID-19 measures to (38.2% very satisfied, 31.7% somewhat satisfied) during them. Also, frequency of sexual intercourse (25.2% 2-4/month, 17.9% 2-3/week) before the COVID-19 measures stayed the same 74% and decreased a lot in 19.7% during the COVID-19 measures. Frequency of Masturbation was (16.4% monthly or less, 11.6% 2-4/month) before the COVID-19 measures stayed the same 39.6%, decreased a lot 37.6% and increased a lot 6.4% during the COVID-19 measures. Also, watching pornography was (15% monthly or less, 10% 2-4/month) before the COVID-19 measures and decreased a lot 41.7%, stayed the same 35.9% and increased a lot 6.2% during the COVID-19 measures. In addition, frequency of sexting was (10% 2-4/month, 8% monthly or less) before the COVID-19 measures and decreased a lot 43%, stayed the same 38.5% and increased a lot 6.9% during the COVID-19 measures. The COVID-19 pandemic and the associated social distancing measures have various effects on the different aspects of the sexual life. These effects might be caused through the impairment of the psychological status and worsening of the economic status during the COVID-19 measures. Work supported by industry: no. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – Bilateral trade between Egypt and China has expanded substantially in recent years. Few studies however have focused on the understanding of this trade relationship. The purpose of this paper is to fill a void in the literature by examining and understanding the two countries' trade pattern. Design/methodology/approach – In order to achieve the objectives of the paper, and in the light of the pool of literature and availability of data, the authors relied on qualitative methods to analyze the composition of trade between Egypt and China. In addition, the authors employed trade intensity index, intra-industry trade index, and examined the trade complementarity to capture the dynamics and perspectives of bilateral trade between the two countries. Findings – Results show low values in Egypt's trade intensity index, implying that Egyptian trade with China is less than it should be. The low values of the intra-industry trade index suggest smaller trade between the two countries' firms in the same industry. The study clearly shows that there are few areas where there is an overlap in the two countries' comparative advantage. The trade complementarity analysis tends to suggest that the complementarity for China to export to Egypt is increasing, while that for Egypt to export to China is declining. Originality/value – Given the lack of research that examines and compares trade between the two countries, the paper provides an in-depth understanding of the patterns of trade between them and the driving forces behind such dynamics, which is pertinent to best capture the opportunities presented by the Chinese market. Also, the findings can be used to draw policy implications for promoting future trade and cooperation between Egypt and China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mycobacterium avium subsp. paractuberculosis circulating among sheep in Egypt. • Johne's disease is more prevalent in diarrheic sheep during summer and spring. • The age of animal and contact with other ruminant have non-significant effect on prevalence of Johne's among sheep. • Culture and real-time PCR have good agreement for detection of MAP in feces. Johne's disease is chronic, incurable disease, caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP). Most studies in Egypt focused on incidence of the disease in cattle but few studies were reported presence of antibodies against MAP in sheep. The present study determined the seroprevalence rate of MAP among sheep in four Governorates and assessed the associated risk factors to MAP-infection. The seroprevalence rate of MAP among sheep was non-significant varied between different Governorates, it was ranged between 3.75%–12.3%. The results revealed that the seroprevalence rate of the disease was significantly increased in diarrheic sheep (11 %, 95 %CI: 7.2−16.2) during spring (15 %, 95 %CI: 8.3−25) and summer (8%, 95 %CI: 4.13−13.8) seasons. Contrary, the age of sheep and contact with other ruminants like cattle or goats had non-significant effect of spreading of MAP-infection among sheep. The detection of MAP in feces of sheep was carried out using culture and PCR to determine the efficiency of both tests. The kappa test revealed good agreement between both tests for detection of MAP. The obtained finding confirms the presence of MAP among sheep in Egypt. So, the appropriate control measures should be taken to reduce spreading of the disease among sheep and reduce its economic losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Migraine is a significant health problem due its frequency and accompanying morbidity.Objectives: This study aims to estimate the prevalence of migraine headache among the population of Al-Quseir city (Upper Egypt) and its impact on the patients' life.Methods: This study is part of a door-to-door survey of major neurological disorders in Al-Quseir city, Red Sea Governorate. All inhabitants (n = 33,285 persons) were screened through door to door by three specialists of neurology. Then, positive cases were subjected to clinical and neurological examination by three staff members of neurology each separately. Respondents were identified as suffering from migraine with aura, migraine without aura, and probable migraine as defined by the diagnostic criteria of the International Headache Society (IHS). Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS) questionnaire was used to assess the impact of the disease on the patients' daily life.Results: We identified 911 patients suffering from migraine. The lifetime prevalence was 3.38/100 with male prevalence of 1.95/100 and female prevalence of 4.8/100. The highest prevalence figures were found during early adult life (18-40 years) among both genders reaching a total prevalence of 4.77/100 (2.89/100 for male and 6.53/100 for female). Among migraine patients, most of the attacks recorded were of moderate to severe intensity (97%) although virtually 66% of migraine patients reported that headache significantly interfered with their daily activities.Conclusion: Lifetime prevalence of migraine is 3.38/100. Migraine headache has a deleterious impact on the patient's functional and wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted to investigate if there is a relation between insulin resistance incidence and inhibition of interferon gamma production or not. Firstly, insulin resistance was induced by high fat diet (HFD) intake for 6 weeks. Secondly, berberine was used as protective/curative compound for insulin resistance. Results revealed that feeding rats HFD for 6 weeks developed features of insulin resistance (IR) syndrome. These features presented in increased body weight, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hypercholesterolemia (with increased LDL-cholesterol and decreased HDL-cholesterol), and hypertriglyceridemia. Level of antioxidant enzymes in HFD group was higher than in normal one. Also there was an increasing in level of proinflammatory cytokines as interleukin- (IL-) 6 and IL-12 in HFD group. Feeding rats HFD for 6 weeks also decreased level of interferon gamma (IFN-γ). The decreased level of IFN-γ has been shown to predict infection with infectious diseases especially viral infection. Treatment and protection with berberine 50 mg/kg/day for 2 weeks were found to be effective against the features of insulin resistance syndrome, improved levels of insulin resistance parameters, lipid profile, antioxidant enzymes, proinflammatory cytokines, and IFN-γ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bovine leukemia virus affects dairy cattle and cause severe economic losses. • The prevalence of BLV increase with number of parities. • Geographic location have no impact on the prevalence of BLV. • Intensive surveillance for BLV is important to control the disease in Egypt. Identification of the risk factors associated with Enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) is essential for the adoption of potentially prevention strategies. Accordingly, our objectives were to determine the geographic distribution of Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV) infection and identify the risk factors associated with cow-level BLV infection in the Egyptian dairy cattle. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1299 mixed breed cows distributed over four provinces in the Nile Delta of Egypt in 2018. The randomly selected cows on each farm were serologically tested for BLV, and the cow's information was obtained from the farm records. Four variables (geographic location, herd size, number of parities, and age) were used for risk analysis. A total of 230 serum samples (17.7 %) were serologically positive for BLV. The highest prevalence of BLV infection was associated with parity (OR = 3.4, 95 %CI 2.4–4.9) with 80 % probability of being BLV-positive at parity ≥5, followed by herd size (OR = 1.8, 95 %CI 1.4–2.2). However, geographic location seems to have no impact on the prevalence of BLV infection in Egypt. Our findings strongly indicate that the intensive surveillance and effective prevention strategies against BLV infection in Egypt should be provided to multiparous cows with ≥5 parities and live in large farm with more than 200 cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In Upper Egypt, the Forensic Medicine Authority of the Ministry of Justice transfers patients with marital conflicts or accusation of rape for proper sexual function evaluation, which helps in making its decisions according to the law. Therefore, our study aims to evaluate the pattern of 40 cases referred for sexual function evaluation, their clinical, laboratory, imaging characteristics and finally the decisions of these cases., Methods: The study included 40 patients who referred from the Forensic Medicine Authority for erectile function evaluation. Initial evaluation was done through history taking, general & genital examination. Hormonal profile including total testosterone, free testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, estradiol and random blood sugar were done. Penile color doppler with intracorporeal injection of PGE1 was done., Results: The final decision for erectile function cases was considered as normal evaluation, venogenic, arteriogenic, and psychogenic erectile dysfunction were 35% (14/40), 25% (10/40), 15% (6/40) and 12.5% (5/40), respectively., Conclusions: There is a great diversity in patients referred for medicolegal evaluation in Upper Egypt; with the erectile function problems are the commonest. A more meticulous well-designed approach is needed for proper evaluation of those patients as serious legal consequences result from this evaluation., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Neospora caninum is an obligate intercellular protozoan parasite and considered one of the abortive pathogens in a wide range of ruminants. The present study aimed to investigate the antibodies against N. caninum in camels from three governorates in Egypt to understand the epidemiology of neosporosis and its associated abortion. The study was carried out on 282 camels using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. The obtained results confirmed the presence of anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in 31 out of 282 camels. Moreover, no significant difference in seroprevalence was observed between different localities under the study and between males and females. On contrary, the number of seropositive camels was increased significantly in adult camels of 8-11 years old (OR = 9.1, 95% CI: 1.1-73.1), during the autumn (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 0.79-7.1) and mainly in females with history of abortion (OR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.2-6.5) or in camels raised with dogs (OR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.1-7.08). The presence of antibodies against N. caninum in camels from Egypt increases the demand for further studies to determine its epidemiological role as a cause of abortion and reduce its economic impacts on camel's industry.

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne disease, usually present as a symptomatic disease but can cause various clinical signs ranged from mild fever to severe encephalitis and death in various animals and humans. In Egypt, the epidemiological data about WNV infection in different animal species particularly in domestic ruminants are scarce. The present study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of WNV in cattle, buffalo, camel, sheep, and goats at some Governorates northern Egypt. In total, 360 serum samples (100 cattle, 50 buffalo, 50 camels, 85 sheep, and 75 goats) were examined using ELISA. The results revealed that the seroprevalence of WNV among ruminants was highly significant (P = 0.03) at Kafr El Sheikh Governorate (17.6%) in comparison with other the Governorates. Besides, the seroprevalence of WNV antibodies significantly differed between the examined species (P = 0.0001); it was 22%, 0%, 40%, 3.5%, and 5.3% in cattle, buffalo, camel, sheep, and goats, respectively. This is the first study to confirm that domestic ruminants act as a reservoir in the epidemiology of WNV infection and represent a risk for human and equine infections in Egypt.