Search

Background: Vaccination of healthcare workers (HCWs) is pivotal in decreasing the incidence of contagious infections in hospital settings. In this study, we assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding HCWs' recommended vaccines among medical students and interns in Egypt. Methods: A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured, pilot-tested, and self-administered questionnaire among Egyptian medical students and interns. We invited 1332 participants to our survey using a systematic random sampling that included participants across nine medical schools in Egypt during the 2021–2022 academic year. Results: Out of 1332 participants, 1141 completed our questionnaire with a response rate of 85.7%. Overall, 43% of the participants had intermediate knowledge (knew 2–3 HCWs' recommended vaccines). Furthermore, 36.7% had received a booster dose of at least one of the HCWs' recommended vaccines over the last 10 years, with only 6.1% having received all recommended vaccines. Hepatitis B vaccine was the most widely known (71%) and received (66.7%). Interns were more likely to know, receive, and recommend HCWs' recommended vaccines. The majority (> 90%) agreed that vaccination is beneficial and safe, with a median score of eight (interquartile range [IQR: Q25-Q75]: 7–9) out of ten for vaccine efficacy and eight (IQR: 7–8) for safety. However, the median score for hesitancy was five (IQR: 2–7). The most common influential and limiting factors for vaccination were scientific facts (60.1%) and fear of vaccine side effects (44.9%). Conclusion: Although medical students in Egypt have good knowledge of and attitudes towards vaccination, there is a gap in their practices. Interventions are needed to improve vaccination uptake among medical students in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study assessed the impact of oral health on the daily lives of children and mothers living in a rural area in Northwestern Egypt. Methods: A cross-sectional household survey including children between 6 and 12 years old and their mothers was conducted in rural Egypt, 2019–2020. Data were collected using clinical examination and interview-based questionnaires of children and mothers. Three binary logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between the dependent variables (oral health impact (yes, no) on avoiding smiling, chewing problems, and missing school (children) and avoiding social events (mothers)), and the explanatory variables: oral health (clinically-assessed caries experience and self-reported oral health) controlling for sociodemographic profile (child age and sex, mother's education), daily toothbrushing and village of residence. Results: A total of 211 households with 355 children and 211 mothers were included (91.5% response rate). About 54% of the children were girls, mean (SD) age = 8.7 (2.05) years and 82.3% did not brush their teeth daily. Mother's mean (SD) age was 31.70 (5.45) years. Because of dental problems, 31.3% of children reported chewing difficulties, 31% avoided smiling compared to 76.3% and 43.6% of mothers. Also, 30.4% of children missed school and 76.8% of mothers reported reduced participation in social activities. In children, the number of decayed anterior teeth was associated with significantly higher odds of avoiding smiling (AOR = 1.22, 95%CI: 1.03, 1.44). In mothers, a greater number of posterior missing teeth was associated with significantly higher odds of chewing difficulties (AOR = 1.21, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.45), and a greater number of all missing teeth was associated with significantly higher odds of reduced participation in social events (AOR = 1.30, 95%CI: 1.30, 1.57). Good/ very good reported oral health in children and mothers was associated with lower odds of avoiding smiling and chewing problems (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Decayed anterior teeth in children have a negative impact on smiling whereas missing teeth in mothers affect the ability to chew food and socialize. The psychological, functional, and social impacts of caries in this rural setting needs to be mitigated by improving oral health literacy and access to care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the ecological interaction between honeybees (Apis mellifera) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) plants, examining the mutual benefits of this relationship. Field experiments conducted in Egypt from December 2022 to May 2023 recorded diverse insect pollinators attracted to fennel flowers, especially honeybees. Assessing honeybee colonies near fennel fields showed improvements in sealed brood (357.5–772.5 cells), unsealed brood (176.3–343.8 cells), pollen collection (53.25–257.5 units), honey accumulation (257.5–877.5 units), and colony strength (7.75–10) over three weeks. Fennel exposure explained 88–99% of variability in foraging metrics. Comparing open versus self-pollinated fennel revealed enhanced attributes with bee pollination, including higher flower age (25.67 vs 19.67 days), more seeds per umbel (121.3 vs 95.33), bigger seeds (6.533 vs 4.400 mm), heavier seeds (0.510 vs 0.237 g/100 seeds), and increased fruit weight per umbel (0.619 vs 0.226 g). Natural variation in seed color and shape also occurred. The outcomes demonstrate the integral role of honeybees in fennel agroecosystems through efficient pollination services that improve crop productivity and quality. Fennel provides abundant nutritional resources that bolster honeybee colony health. This research elucidates the symbiotic bee-fennel relationship, underscoring mutualistic benefits and the importance of ecological conservation for sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a global health problem and has been increasing in Egypt over the last several decades. A national population screening program for hepatitis C included screening for obesity. Here we report the outcome of body mass index (BMI) calculation for the screened population and for patients with hepatitis C. Methods Adults 18 years and older (a target population of 62.5 million) were invited to participate in a screening program between October 2018 and April 2019. Persons had their BMI calculated. All data were entered in real-time to a central database via cellular networks. BMI data for patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection before starting direct antiviral therapy were obtained from the National Committee for the Control of Viral Hepatitis (NCCVH) Findings 49.6 million persons (25.6 million females and 24.0 million males) voluntarily participated and had valid height and weight data. 12.7 million females (49.51%) and 7.09 million males (29.53%) were affected by obesity (BMI ≥ 30kg/m2). Obesity increased with age, was more prevalent in females, was more prevalent in the Nile Delta states and in urban areas. Detailed district-level prevalence for the whole country is identified. Prevalence of obesity among 335,504 patients with HCV was higher in females, increased with age, and was significantly lower overall and in males and females than in the screened general population. Conclusion This is the largest population screening program for obesity. We show that obesity prevalence in the general population is currently among the highest in the world, starting in young adults, and highlight the high prevalence areas. Prevalence is lower in patients with HCV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aims to evaluate the interchangeability between cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and the optical surface scanning system (Catalyst) for daily positioning during radiation therapy in head and neck cancer patients. Method: This study was designed as a prospective observational descriptive study divided into two parts. The first part involved a phantom study using the computerized imaging reference systems (CIRS) child atom phantom. It aimed to detect deviations in patient position across six degrees of freedom (lateral, longitudinal, vertical, rotation, roll, and pitch) using the optical light scanner and Catalyst and compare them with deviations detected by CBCT in the same treatment sessions. The second part included 252 sessions, during which 30 head and neck cancer patients were treated at Children Cancer Hospital 57357, Egypt, using both Catalyst and CBCT for setup treatment positioning. Results: The differences between CBCT and Catalyst in all six degrees of deviation were not statistically significant (lateral (P = 0.175), longitudinal (P = 0.296), vertical (P = 0.110), rotation (P= 0.936), roll (P = 0.527), and pitch (P = 0.270)). Conclusion: The optical light scanner system Catalyst is comparable to CBCT. Surface scanning (Catalyst) has proven reliable and feasible for daily patient positioning, with the advantage of avoiding daily exposure to additional radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important emerging health problems is the increasing role of animals in the rapid global rise in resistance to last-resort antibiotics, such as carbapenems. However, there is limited information on the role of pet animals in harboring and spreading pandrug-resistant (PDR) carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE), especially in Egypt. This cross-sectional study was conducted to screen for CPE in healthy and diseased pets using phenotypic and molecular methods and the NG-Test CARBA 5 immunochromatographic assay. Rectal swabs were collected from 62 dogs and 48 cats, incubated overnight in tryptic soy broth containing 10 μg of meropenem disc and subsequently cultured on MacConkey agar supplemented with meropenem (1 mg/L). Sixty-six isolates (60.6%), including 56 Klebsiella pneumoniae, seven Escherichia coli, and three K. oxytoca isolates, were confirmed to be carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) by the disc diffusion method, broth microdilution test, CNPt-direct, and PCR assay targeting carbapenemase genes. Forty-three (65.2%) dogs and 23 (34.8%) cats carried CPE. Of these, 35 (70.0%) were healthy (including 27 dogs and 8 cats) and 31 (52.5%) were diseased (including 16 dogs and 15 cats). blaOXA-181 was the most common gene detected (42/66, 63.6%), followed by blaIMP (40/66, 60.6%), blaOXA−48−like (29/66, 43.9%), blaKPC and blaVIM (20/66, 30.3% each), and blaNDM (17/66, 25.8%). The identified genotypes were blaKPC-2, blaIMP-1, blaVIM-1, blaNDM-1, and blaNDM-5. The CARBA 5 assay showed higher sensitivity and specificity for the detection of NDM, OXA and KPC than that for VIM and IMP genes. Antimicrobial resistance profiles of CRE isolates revealed 20 PDR, 30 extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and 16 multidrug-resistant (MDR) phenotypes. This study provides evidence of colonization with PDR CPE in dogs and cats. To manage the infection or colonization of pets in veterinary clinical settings, extended surveillance systems should be considered, and the use of critical antibiotics should be strictly controlled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Current guidelines advocate for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in adults who are at risk by using direct visualization methods such as colonoscopy. However, in Egypt, there is a paucity of data regarding the current practice of colonoscopy screening. Moreover, more information is needed about the knowledge and attitudes of potential participants regarding the procedure and possible barriers that can limit their participation. Methods: We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional study using an interview-based survey of patients aged 45 years or above who presented to outpatient clinics of nine university hospitals throughout Egypt. Participants were surveyed to assess their compliance with CRC colonoscopy screening guidelines, their knowledge of and attitude towards colonoscopy screening, and their perspective on potential barriers to colonoscopy screening. Results: A total of 1,453 participants responded to our survey in the nine study centers. Only a minority of participants (2.3%) were referred for CRC screening. Referral rates were higher among those who knew someone with a history of CRC (5.3% vs 1.5%, p < 0.001) or had a discussion with their physician about CRC (25.8% vs 0.7%, p < 0.001). Few responders (3.2%) had good knowledge regarding CRC screening. After introducing the concept of CRC screening to all participants, most patients (66.7%) showed a positive attitude towards having the procedure. Financial burden and fear of results were the two most frequently cited barriers to undergoing CRC screening (81.1%; and 60.1%, respecteively). Conclusions: Despite the positive attitude, there is insufficient knowledge about CRC screening among eligible participants in Egypt. This has probably contributed to low compliance with current CRC screening guidelines and needs to be addressed at the national level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, three equipment were used to control fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). This equipment was a knapsack motor sprayer (Armitsu) (120 L/fed.), knapsack sprayer (Sunflower) fitted hollow cone nozzle (Tx-6) (40 L/fed.), and even a flat fan nozzle (80 L/fed.), and conventional motor sprayer (300 L/fed.), at Facous, Sharqia Governorate. The present study aimed to determine the effects of application technique with different equipment on initial and late biological efficacy using two recommended insecticides, methomyl (Top cromic SP 90% w/w) 300g/fed [Carbamate group] and indoxacarb (Dronz EC 15% w/v) 25cm3/100L [Oxadiazine]. Regarding the efficacy of the two used insecticides results showed that indoxacarb and methomyl on the larval populations of S. frugiperda on cowpea were insignificant ("F" value = 14.75), whereas indoxacarb produced reduction percent with the used equipment (95.6%, 93.3%, 89.53% and 74.0%) and methomyl recorded (91.83%, 85.13%, 84.00%, and 69.97%). Also, comparative between the equipment, showed that the most effective equipment was the knapsack motor sprayer which recorded (95.6% for indoxacarb and 91.83% for methomyl) percent reduction, then the knapsack sprayer with Tx-6 recorded (93.27% for indoxacarb and 84.0% for methomyl), subsequent with knapsack fitted with an even flat fan recorded (89.53% for indoxacarb and 85.13% for methomyl), and followed by conventional motor sprayer which recorded (74.0% for indoxacarb and 69.97% for methomyl), respectively "F" value was 14.75 and LSD was 1.73. Also, the sprayer recorded 13 and 20 droplets with methomyl and indoxacarb, respectively. In the case of the knapsack motor sprayer, the loss was 10 and 7 droplets with methomyl and indoxacarb respectively, the knapsack sprayer with Tx-6 went down the lowest as 5 and 2 droplets with methomyl and indoxacarb respectively, whereas the same equipment with even flat fan gave lost 5 droplets with both two insecticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) biofilm is grown not only on medical devices but also on different substrata and is considered a potential hazard in the food industry. Quorum sensing plays a serious role in the synthesis of biofilm with its surrounding extracellular matrix enabling irreversible connection of the bacteria. Aim: The goal of the current investigation was to ascertain the prevalence, patterns of antimicrobial resistance, and capacity for B. cereus biofilm formation in meat and meat products in Egypt. Methods: In all, 150 meat and meat product samples were used in this study. For additional bacteriological analysis, the samples were moved to the Bacteriology Laboratory. Thereafter, the antimicrobial, antiquorum sensing, and antibiofilm potential of apple cider vinegar (ACV) on B. cereus were evaluated. Results: Out of 150 samples, 34 (22.67%) tested positive for B. cereus. According to tests for antimicrobial susceptibility, every B. cereus isolates tested positive for colistin and ampicillin but negative for ciprofloxacin and imipenem. The ability to form biofilms was present in all 12 multidrug-resistant B. cereus isolates (n = 12); of these, 6 (50%), 3 (25%), and 3 (25%) isolates were weak, moderate, and strong biofilm producers, respectively. It is noteworthy that the ACV demonstrated significant inhibitory effects on B. cereus isolates, with minimum inhibitory concentrations varying between 2 and 8 μg/ml. Furthermore, after exposing biofilm-producing B. cereus isolates to the minimum biofilm inhibitory concentrations 50 of 4 μg/ml, it demonstrated good antibiofilm activity (>50% reduction of biofilm formation). Strong biofilm producers had down-regulated biofilm genes (tasA and sipW) and their regulator (plcR) compared to the control group, according to reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Conclusion: Our study is the first report, that spotlights the ACV activity against B. cereus biofilm and its consequence as a strong antibacterial and antibiofilm agent in the food industry and human health risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two fungal species were isolated from the studied rock samples and identified morphologically as Aspergillus hollandicus and Penicillium citrinum. Bioleaching process was applied to W1, W2 and W3. The average concentration activity of 238U, 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K are 5134.03, 5708.64, 189.51, and 1456.8 BqKg−1, respectively. Radionuclide's distribution in leach liquor, residual, and fungal adsorption were followed and environmental hazard indices (Raeq, Iγ, Hex, Hin, and ECLR) were calculated. From the observed outcomes, the isolated fungal strains have the potential to reduce the harmful effect up to 50% compared to the original. As a result, application of these fungal strains offers a potential strategy for environmental remediation of radionuclides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofertilizers and biocontrol agents have been improved for several decades as microbiological tools that can provide beneficial outcomes in the growth and health of plants. Two field experiments were performed in the Scientific Farm of the Horticulture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Minia University, Egypt during the winter of 2022/2023 using clay loam soil. Control plots were treated with the recommended rates of mineral fertilizer of NPK (100%) without inoculation, while other plots were inoculated with Egyptian isolates of effective microorganisms (EMs) (a mixture of Azotobacter chroococcum and Azospirillium brasilense) and strains of Bacillus spp.; the biofertilizers were applied to the soil through mixing with irrigation water. For mycorrhizae, Glomus mosseae and Glamus fasiculatum isolation stock cultures were combined to create the mycorrhizal inoculum. The results showed that biofertilizers with 75% NPK were the best. Biofertilizers changed the properties of soil, increased its content of beneficial microorganisms, increased the total good quality production of onion and potato and decreased the stress of chemical pesticides and mineral fertilizers on crop growth and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has renewed interest in streamlining processes which allow refugee doctors and other healthcare workers to make up for the shortfall in healthcare delivery, which many countries are facing increasingly. The protracted conflict in Syria is the biggest driver of forced displacement internationally with refugees, including healthcare workers seeking safety in host countries, however many face challenges to entering the workforce in a timely manner. The majority are in countries surrounding Syria (Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey) however the restrictive labour policies in these countries, particularly for healthcare workers have forced many to look further afield to Europe or the Gulf. Egypt's context is interesting in this regard, as it hosts a smaller number of registered Syrian refugees and was initially welcoming of Syrian medical students and doctors. However, recent socio-political changes have led to restrictions in training and work, leading doctors who initially considering staying in Egypt to increasingly consider it a transit country rather than a destination country. Here, we explore the processes by which Syrian doctors in Egypt can work and how documented policies may differ to practice. We do this through a document review and from the first-hand experiences of the authors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is the optimal reperfusion method for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). When compared to thrombolysis alone, another mechanism of transfer--referred to as pharmaco-invasive PCI--for prompt angioplasty following thrombolytic therapy is necessary. Objective: This study compared primary PCI with pharmacoinvasive PCI for patients admitted with acute anterior STEMI in order to evaluate the short-term recovery of left ventricular systolic and diastolic performance. Subjects and methods: From June 2020 to June 2022, we enrolled 100 patients with anterior STEMI who were admitted to Zagazig University Hospital in Egypt. In two groups of fifty patients each, the patients were assigned. The first group received primary PCI, while the second group underwent pharmacoinvasive PCI within 24 hours after presentation. Three months of follow-up on both groups were used to evaluate the systolic and diastolic myocardial recovery. Ejection fraction (EF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) were used to evaluate systolic function. Tissue Doppler E/e' ratio was used for assessment of diastolic function. The E/(e'xs') index, a special Doppler measure that considers both systolic and diastolic functions, was also evaluated. Results: In the pharmacoinvasive group, the time from pain to ECG was considerably shorter (p = 0.02). The PPCI group had statistically greater average ST segment elevation and resolution (p= 0.03 and 0.02, respectively). The majority of patients in both groups had MBG 3, and the pharmacoinvasive group had a statistically significantly greater prevalence of establishing MBG 3 (p = 0.02). While there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups for the ejection fraction after revascularization, there was a statistically significant difference between them for the GLS, E/e' ratio, and E/(e'x s') ratio, with P values of 0.02 to 0.003 and 0.004 respectively. The EF and GLS both improved three months after revascularization, and there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups with P values of 0.03 for the GLS, 0.001 for the (E/e'x s') ratio, and 0.001 for the E/e' ratio, respectively. The most effective predictors of MACE, according to multivariate regression analysis, were GLS immediately following revascularization and both E/(e'x s') ratio immediately and 3 months after revascularization. E/(e's') at discharge had a cut-off value of 1.72 (78% sensitivity and 70% specificity), which was the best indicator of MACE. The most effective predictors of MACE, according to multivariate regression analysis, were GLS immediately following revascularization and both E/(e'x s') ratio immediately and 3 months after revascularization. E/(e's') at discharge had a cut-off value of 1.72 (78% sensitivity and 70% specificity), which was the best indicator of MACE. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that when primary PCI is unavailable or cannot be performed promptly in accordance with the recommendations of the guidelines, pharmacoinvasive PCI within 24 hours of fibrinolysis constitutes a reliable reperfusion approach for patients presenting with anterior STEMI. We also concluded that that pharmaco-invasive strategy could offer a superior outcome regarding microvascular circulation reflected in better myocardial blushing and better short-term recovery of the diastolic function. Evaluation of GLS and E/(e'xs') ratio before discharge has a prognostic impact regarding short-term systo-diastolic myocardial recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Refugee healthcare workers (HCWs) can make important contributions in host countries, particularly in the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated existing shortages of frontline HCWs. However, refugee HCWs often face challenges entering the labour markets of such countries even where needs exist. Syria's decade-long conflict has forced thousands of HCWs from their homes; however, data on this population are limited, impeding the formation of policies that can support them. This study explores the experiences of Syrian refugee HCWs in Egypt. Methods: Key informants (KIs) were selected using purposive and snowball sampling method and semi-structured interviews were conducted in person in Cairo and remotely from the UK during July 2019. Interviews were conducted in Arabic and analysed using a combined deductive and inductive thematic analysis framework after transcription into English. Results: Fifteen KI interviews were analysed. The main emerging themes from the qualitative interviews are those relating to 1. Education, training, and licensing 2. Politics and bureaucracy 3. Societal factors 4. Economic factors. Political changes in Egypt altered opportunities for Syrian HCWs over time; however, refugee HCWs broadly reported acceptance among Egyptian patients and colleagues. Bureaucratic factors which impede the ability of Syrian refugee HCWs to obtain a full license to practice and leave to remain and the absence of clearly defined policies were reported as barriers. Economic factors including the risk of economic exploitation e.g. in the informal sector and financial insecurity were noted to have a negative psychosocial impact. Conclusions: This is the first qualitative research study which explores the experiences of Syrian refugee HCWs in Egypt. It adds to the sparse literature on the topic of Syrian refugee HCWs but provides evidence for further discussions on how to support refugee HCWs in Egypt and in other host countries in the region. Though interviews were conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic, the pandemic itself lends urgency to the discussion around refugee HCWs on an international level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maladera modesta (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) infesting many plants and has become a serious pest since 2016 on citrus and strawberry crops, The adults feed on the leaves, buds and flowers of several plants The C-shaped larvae (white grubs) feed on roots The study was conducted as a part of a comprehensive baseline survey and population density of M. modesta infesting medicinal, aromatically and ornamental plants in a different region (Rawdat Al-Nil Park, Al-Firdaws Compound for the Armed Force, International Park and Nubaria) and studied the of M. modesta at (Giza and Beheira) during two successive seasons. The results indicated that the twenty-four plants are more infected by M. modesta. The population density recorded that, the general weekly mean number of M. modesta was more abundant at Beheira Governorate than recoded at Giza Governorate throughout two successive seasons 2021 and 2022. The statistical analysis of the total mean number of M. modesta showed a significant difference at <0.0001 for two different locations. At Giza Governorate showed that the adults recorded its highest levels of infestation in the months (June, October, September, July, Augusta, May, April, November and March) However, the months of January, February and December, insect population was absent. At Beheira Governorate, showed that the adults recorded their highest levels of infestation in the months of (June, Augusta, July, September, April, May, October and March), and the months of January, February, November and December, insect population was absent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought tolerance is a main trait for growing and stabilizing barley productivity in dry areas globally. The current study was conducted to evaluate the morphological and yield-related traits of the barley cultivar "Giza134" in response to drought stress. To determine the impact of drought and stress, the experiment was conducted in the growth chamber and in rainfed conditions. In the growth chamber, seedlings were irrigated, watered (normally), and subjected to 30% PEG-600 (polyethylene glycol 600) as a drought stress condition. Furthermore, barley plants were evaluated during two consecutive seasons, 2021 and 2022, at Nubaria (normal condition), in addition to two different rainfed locations on the northwest coast of Egypt, West Barrani and East Matrouh. Most morphological and yield component traits declined significantly, including plant height (cm), spike length (cm), number of grains per spike, biological yield (BY; ton/fed-1), and grain yield (GY; Ardab Fed-1). Grain yield losses were over 85% in West Barrani and East Matrouh, respectively, compared with Nubaria. To understand the mechanisms of drought tolerance at the molecular level, the gene expression of drought-responsive genes, including HvAPX1 encodes peroxidase, HvFNR encodes ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase, HvDHN1 encodes dehydrin, HvSAM encodes Sadenosyl-L-methionine methyltransferases, HvEDE encodes ER degradation enhancer, and HVABH encodes alpha/beta-hydrolases, were measured in leaf tissues of "Giza 134." The relative expression levels of HvAPX1, HvFNR, and HvDHN1 were significantly (p 0.01) upregulated, with over 8-fold for HvDHN1. while HvSAM, HvEDE and HVABH genes are downregulated in response to drought stress. These findings might provide new insights into the mechanisms of drought tolerance in barley and facilitate future breeding programs for resilient barley crops in a changing global climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medial epicondylalgia is a repetitive stress condition. The aim of this study was to assess whether Kinesio taping offers any superiority over athletic taping for chronic medial epicondylalgia management. The results show statistically significant differences in isokinetic and patient self-reported variables between each group: (a) Group A: Kinesio tape with rehabilitation: (b) Group B: athletic taping with rehabilitation: and (c) group C: only rehabilitation. Although no significant differences in preintentervention group assessments (p > .05) were found, only Group (A) showed statistically significant posttreatment improvements. Kinesio taping over athletic taping appears effective for treating chronic medial epicondylalgia and facilitating pain reduction and isokinetic improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saline and drought conditions are the biggest threats to plant species around the world. The rice crop is one of the most important crops worldwide. Therefore, the Giza 179 rice variety was released in the 2013 season as an earlymaturing, high-yielding variety that is adapted and mitigated to drought and saline soils. This new variety was produced by crossbreeding between GZ6296-12-1-2-1-1 and GZ 1368-5-S-4 in the 2001 season. The first generation, "F1," of this cross was evaluated in the 2002 season and planted as the F2 generation in the 2003 season. Sequentially, the next generations from F3 to F6 were evaluated in the pedigree trails during the 2004-2007 seasons under code number GZ 9057. Two promising sister lines, GZ 9057-6-1-3-1 and GZ 9057-6-1-3-2, were selected and evaluated in a preliminary yield trail at the Experimental Farm of Rice Research and Training Center, Sakha, Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt. The results revealed that the promising line GZ 9057-6-1-3-2 (Giza 179) surpassed all selected lines. Accordingly, the line GZ 9057-6-1-3-2 was evaluated from 2009 to 2011 and used as a check variety up to the 2022 seasons in multi-location yield trails at Sakha, Gemmiza, and Zarzoura as normal conditions and El-Sirw as saline conditions in regional, final, and verification yield trails. The GZ 9057-6-1-3-2 (Giza 179) recorded 10.47 t/ha for grain yield with a total duration of 122-125 days under normal conditions and 7.000-7.200 t/ha under saline conditions at El-Sirw Agricultural Research Station, while Giza 178 recorded 9.75 t/ha during the same seasons under normal conditions with a total duration of 135 days. Furthermore, the Giza 179 variety showed a high level of blast resistance in blast nursery and trap varieties in the field and artificial inoculation under greenhouse conditions. The results from PCR analysis for the Giza 179 with their parents showed that the proximity matrix was 89.8% between Giza 179 and GZ6296 and 71.1% between Giza 179 and GZ1368. Finally, it is an excellent new cultivar to be released and recommended for cultivation in the different rice-growing governorates, particularly in areas suffering from water shortages and saline soils in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was designed to assess the efficiency of ozone (O3) as a green technology in the detoxification of aflatoxins (AFs) in luncheon and kofta. Both products can deliver AFs to consumers where all samples revealed more than one of the major AF B1, B2, G1, and G2. Kofta contained a higher level (15.2 ppb) of total AFs compared to luncheon (4.8 ppb). By exposing samples to O3, the degree of detoxification was proportional to O3 concentration. At 20 ppm O3, the most detoxified AFs were AFB2 (67.1%) and AFG1 (68.3%) while the reduction in other AFs ranged from 11.6 - 55.2% and 44.7 - 61.4% for luncheon and kofta, respectively. By 40 ppm O3, the most detoxified AFs were AFG1 (100%) and AFB2 (91.7%) while the reduction in other AFs ranged from 54.6 - 85.7 % and 61.4 - 78.4%, respectively. By the two applied concentrations, O3 none significantly lowered the pH values of samples. Lipid stability was inversely proportional with O3 concentration as fat was more stable at 20 compared to 40 ppm O3, where kofta appeared higher stability compared to luncheon. Ozone appeared able to eliminate or significantly reduce AFs in raw and ready-to-eat meat products with negligible changes in physicochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Treatment refusal, defined as active refusal of a patient to receive treatment despite physician recommendations, has not been extensively evaluated before in hepatitis C virus in the era of direct acting antivirals. Objective To investigate the reasons for refusal to receive hepatitis C virus treatment in Egypt. Methods an observational study conducted between July 2018 and November 2019 in Egypt. Enrollment was done to all patients who refused to get hepatitis C virus treatment during the national screening and treatment campaign. Reasons for their refusal were identified using a questionnaire as an instrument for data collection. Results Out of the 220 280 Egyptian hepatitis C virus patients who did not show up to start treatment and were contacted to get therapy, only 84 patients (0.038%) refused to receive treatment. The main reason for their refusal was having concerns about treatment (82.14%) and their main concern was the fear of adverse events (85.5%). Other causes of refusal were non-satisfactory experience at treatment centers (13.09%) and patients preferred to receive complementary and alternative medicines (4.7%). Most patients (65.4%) trusted the efficacy of directly acting antivirals for hepatitis C. None of the study participants was found to suffer from any psychiatric morbidity and the average score of the GHQ-12 was 10.7155. Conclusion Proper health education and awareness regarding hepatitis C virus treatment safety and efficacy is needed to increase treatment acceptance rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonella spp. are one of the most frequently reported foodborne pathogens worldwide. The present study investigated the virulence genotypes and antimicrobial sensitivity of Salmonella spp. isolated from broiler chickens in Kafr El-Sheikh governorate, Egypt. A total of 180 samples [liver (n=70), spleen (n=70) and caecum (n=40)] collected from 50 different broiler chicken flocks were used to isolate Salmonellae. All suspected samples were examined through a series of conventional bacteriological, biochemical, and serological techniques for isolation and identification of Salmonella spp. All isolates were tested for susceptibility to 16 antimicrobials. Virulence factors were determined using the polymerase chain reaction assays targeting the invA, pefA, avrA, sopB and spvC. The overall isolation percentage of Salmonella was 6.1%. Eleven Salmonella isolates belonging to four different serovars were recovered. S. Belgdam was the most predominant species (7/11, 63.6%), followed by S. Typhimurium (2/11, 18.2%), and S. Virchow and Salmonella enterica subsp. Salamae (S. Salamae) (1/11, 9.1% each). All the isolates were positive for all tested genes except S. Salamae, which harbored neither the sopB nor avrA genes. All isolates exhibited resistance to almost all antimicrobials used. The finding of the present study show high positivity of virulence genes as well as multidrug resistance of all serotypes suggesting pathogenic Salmonella strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable agriculture is a prerequisite for food and environmental security. Chemical fertilization, especially nitrogenous fertilization, is considered the most consumed for field crops. In rice crops, plants consume much less than half of the applied N-fertilizer. In the current investigation, multiple N environments were generated by applying different N doses of urea fertilizer to a permanent transplanted field for two successive summer growing seasons at the rice research and training center, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt. A set of 55 genotypes consisting of 25 Jabonica, 4 Tropical Japonica, 20 Indica, and 6 Indica/Japonica were transplanted under no N (0N), Low N (LN), medium N (MN), and High N (HN) (i.e., 0, 48, 96, and 165 Kg N ha−1, respectively). Highly significant differences were detected among the tested genotypes. AMMI analysis of variance revealed the existence of the genotype via nitrogen interaction (GNI) on yield performance. The GNI principal components (IPCA); IPCA1 and IPCA2 scores were significant and contributed values of 71.1 and 21.7%, respectively. The highest-ranked genotypes were MTU1010, IR22, SK2046, SK2058, IR66, and Yabani LuLu based on their grain yield means (30.7, 29.9, 29.5, 29.3, 28.8, and 28.5 g plant−1). These genotypes were grouped into the same subcluster (SCL) according to the stability analysis ranking matrix. Based on AMMI analysis and biplots, MTU1010 and Yabani LuLu showed yield stability across environments. Meanwhile, the which-won-where biplot showed that IR22 was superior under unfavorable N-levels and MTU1010 was stable across the different environments. These findings are considered to be of great importance to breeders for initiating low-nitrogen-input breeding programs for sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change significantly aggravates the quality of soil and water, especially in desert regions such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt concluding in an alarming increase in salinity in the reservoirs of the natural resources. Saline farming rises as a promising solution, utilizing low-quality water and land resources to grow salt-tolerant varieties of conventional crops and halophytes. Samphire (Salicornia spp.) is among the most popular multi-purpose halophytes that are locally consumed in several countries around the world as a vegetable. Six Salicornia bigelovii genotypes (ICBA-2, ICBA-3, ICBA-4, ICBA-8, ICBA-9, ICBA-10) were evaluated for their agronomic performance and nutritional composition in Dubai in UAE and, for the first time, at the Red Sea Governorate in Egypt in the 2019–2020 season using saline groundwater for irrigation (ECw = 26 and 6.6 dS/m, respectively). ICBA-10 performed well in both locations with high green biomass and seed yield (10.9 kgm−2 and 116.3 gm−2, respectively, in UAE; 7.7 kgm−2 and 82.9 gm−2, respectively, in Egypt). ICBA-10 was, overall, also good in ion accumulation, total amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids content in both locations for shoots and seeds. Our results indicated that a lack of a drainage system and leaching fraction, the silt loam texture and the drip irrigation system might have contributed in the gradual accumulation of salts in the soil at Mubarak Valley at the end of the experiment at a higher level than ICBA. Apart from the agronomic parameters, higher salinity levels also affected ion accumulation, the amino acids and the fatty acids content for both shoots and seeds, whereas the proximate composition was affected to a lesser extent. Our findings on the high unsaturated fatty acids content under higher salinity corroborate the nutritional value of S. bigelovii oil. Due to its euhalophyte nature, S. bigelovii is a valuable source of minerals, amino acids and antioxidants that render it the most promising salt-loving plant for food use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Significant association between toxoplasmosis seropositivity and the risk of schizophrenia. • T. gondii infection linked to dopamine dysregulation in schizophrenia. • Higher dopamine serum levels in schizophrenic patients with T. gondii seropositivity. • Contact with cats and undercooked meat consumption are risk factors for T. gondii. Toxoplasma gondii , a parasite infecting around one-third of the global population, has been linked to neurological disorders like schizophrenia. Abnormal dopamine levels are linked to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, but their association remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between T. gondii seroprevalence and dopamine serum levels in schizophrenic patients in Egypt. This case-control study included 93 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and 93 individuals as controls. T. gondii seroprevalence was determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Dopamine serum levels were measured using ELISA. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were also collected. The study found a higher prevalence of T. gondii IgG antibodies in patients with schizophrenia (68 %) compared to controls (46.2 %). Contact with cats, sausage consumption, and undercooked meat were identified as possible risk factors associated with T. gondii infection. The mean level of serum dopamine was significantly (P < 0.001) higher in patients with schizophrenia (115.3 Pg/ml ±31.8) compared to the control group (75.02 Pg/ml ±26.5). The study found that schizophrenic patients with T. gondii seropositivity had significantly higher dopamine serum levels (mean=145.2 ± 32.1 pg/ml) than those without T. gondii seropositivity (mean=122.5 ± 29.7 pg/ml) (p = 0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that T. gondii seropositivity was a significant predictor of increased dopamine serum levels in schizophrenic patients (odds ratio=3.4, 95 % confidence interval=1.8–6.4, p < 0.001). The study suggests that T. gondii seroprevalence may increase dopamine serum levels in Egyptian schizophrenic patients, potentially contributing to dopamine dysregulation in schizophrenia, but further research is needed to confirm these findings and investigate the underlying mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology has a wide range of applications. Nanotechnology refers to the particle in nanoscale used to improve agricultural productivity and to encounter the unsolved problems conventionally. Nanostructured formulation through mechanisms, such as targeted delivery or slow/controlled release mechanisms as well as conditional release, could release their active ingredients in response to the environmental conditions and biological demands more precisely. Nanotechnology has a great potential for achieving sustainable agriculture, especially in developing countries. Salinity is among the major abiotic stresses which limits the yield and quality of global crops. Zinc (Zn) is a vital micronutrient that is mandatory for the ideal growth of plants and has proved to reduce the hazardous effects of salt stress. To counter the salinity problem, a pot experiment was conducted at wire house of the Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences (ISES), University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, to observe the effects of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) on wheat variety “Gemmieza” imported from Egypt under salt stress. Notably, 10 dS m-1 salinity was developed artificially, and different doses of Zn conventional fertilizer and ZnO NPs were applied to potted wheat. ZnO NPs (0.12 g pot-1) significantly increased the physical parameters of wheat compared to control under salt stress. Application of ZnO NPs (0.12 g pot-1) significantly increased chlorophyll A and B contents by 24.6 and 10%, plant height at vegetative and maturity stages by 34.6 and 37.4%, shoot and spike lengths by 30.7 and 27.6%, root fresh and dry weights by 74.5 and 63.1%, and wheat grain yield by 42.2%, respectively. ZnO NPs performed better compared to Zn conventional fertilizer under salt stress and could be used in place of Zn conventional fertilizer in salt-affected soils for attaining better crop production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Bovine Mycoplasma species, particularly antimicrobial resistant Mycoplasma bovis are important causes of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in cattle, which causes major economic losses worldwide. Thus, the current study aimed to determine the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance profiles of bovine Mycoplasma spp. isolated from cattle's respiratory tracts, in addition to evaluating the fluoroquinolone resistance in the recovered isolates using broth microdilution and conventional PCR techniques in Egypt. Our result showed that M. bovis was the most common spp. (61%), followed by M. bovirhinis (15%). In total, mycoplasma isolates were more prevalent among all examined lung tissues (38%), followed by nasal swabs (35%), tracheal tissues (28%), and tracheal swabs (27%). All the examined mycoplasma isolates (n = 76) were 100% susceptible to spectinomycin, tulathromycin, spiramycin, and tylosin, but high doxycycline and enrofloxacin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) values were observed among 43.4% and 60.5% of the tested isolates, respectively. Three and two mycoplasma isolates with high enrofloxacin MICs were confirmed to be M. bovis and M. bovirhinis, respectively, by PCR assays. All molecularly confirmed mycoplasma isolates (n = 5) were positive for the gyrA gene (100%), meanwhile, three isolates (60%) were positive for the parC gene. In conclusion, understanding antimicrobial resistance mechanisms is a significant tool for the future development of genetic-based diagnostic techniques for the rapid detection of resistant mycoplasma strains. Among many bovine Mycoplasma species (spp.), Mycoplasma bovis is recognized as a significant causative agent of respiratory diseases in cattle. In recent years, resistant M. bovis isolates, especially to fluoroquinolones, have been reported globally as a result of the extensive usage of antimicrobials in the treatment of bovine pneumonia. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of bovine Mycoplasma spp. isolated from the respiratory tracts of cattle in Egypt and to assess the fluoroquinolones resistance in the recovered mycoplasma isolates via broth microdilution and conventional PCR techniques. Conventional phenotypic methods identified 128 mycoplasma isolates (32%) from 400 different samples, with M. bovis being the predominant spp. (61%), followed by M. bovirhinis (15%). Of note, mycoplasma isolates were rarely isolated from total healthy lung tissues (7/55, 12.7%), but they were frequently isolated from pneumonic lungs (31/45, 68.9%). All the examined mycoplasma isolates (n = 76) were sensitive to tilmicosin, tylosin, tulathromycin, spiramycin, and spectinomycin (100% each), while 60.5% and 43.4% of the examined isolates had high minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values to enrofloxacin and doxycycline, respectively. Three and two mycoplasma isolates with high enrofloxacin MICs were confirmed to be M. bovis and M. bovirhinis, respectively, by PCR assays. All molecularly confirmed mycoplasma isolates (n = 5) were positive for the gyrA gene (100%); meanwhile, three isolates (60%) were positive for the parC gene. In conclusion, our findings revealed alarming resistance to enrofloxacin and doxycycline antibiotics; thus, antimicrobial usage must be restricted and molecular techniques can help in the rapid detection of the resistant strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The neonatal mortality rate is 19 deaths per 1000 live births worldwide. Studies have shown that neonatal registry network systems can provide the necessary data for establishing evidence-based strategies to decrease the complications in high-risk neonates and consequently reduce neonatal mortality rate. Aim of the Work: To determine the frequency and distribution of neonatal critical illnesses in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Ain Shams University. Patients and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in NICU, Children's Hospital, Ain Shams University. The data collected from initiated neonatal registry through electronic medical record to reach sample size number (381) patients. The current study was conducted after approval by the Department of Pediatrics, and the local Ethics and Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University. Results: The mean ± (SD) age at admission was 5.52 ± 6.9 days, gestational age was 36.19 ± 2.47 weeks, more than half of our patients were males (55.6%) and females represented in (44.4%). Two-thirds (64.2%) of our participants were full term, and pre-term were only (35.7%). The main etiology of NICU admission was respiratory disease (35.7%), followed by neonatal sepsis (25.2%), neonatal jaundice (21%), congenital anomalies (12.3%), CNS diseases (6.8%), inborn errors of metabolism (1%) and mortality rate was 10.5%. Four cases had inborn errors of metabolism in the form of: Maple syrup urine disease (one case), organic academia (one cases) and 2 cases referred to genetic clinic for further assessment. Congenital heart diseases in our study was reported in (7.9%) of neonates. The main etiology among them was reported in following order: PDA / pulmonary hypertension (26.7%), VSD (13.3%), Fallot tetralogy (10%), transposition of great arteries (10%), supraventricular tachycardia (6.7%) then many etiologies represented in 3.3% as Ebstein anomaly, right single ventricle, heart block, pulmonary artery stenosis, arrhythmia, tricuspid atresia and left hypoplastic heart disease. Conclusion: This study showed the ability of the electronic medical record to store large amounts of data which creates a potential for information overload in the intensive care (ICU) setting. This will stimulate and facilitate research on neonatal critical illness and its management, mortality and morbidity outcomes of neonates admitted to NICUs in Children's Hospital, Ain Shams University, Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Copyright of 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.)

Shipping faces challenges of reducing the dependence on fossil fuels to align with the international regulations of ship emissions reduction. The maritime industry is in urgent need of searching about alternative energy sources for ships. This paper highlights the applicability of harnessing wind power for ships. Flettner rotors as a clean propulsion technology for commercial ships are introduced. As a case study, one of the bulk carrier ships operating between Damietta port in Egypt and Dunkirk port in France has been investigated. The results showed the high influence of the interaction between ship course and wind speed and direction on the net output power of Flettner rotors. The average net output power for each rotor will be 384 kW/h. Economically, the results reveal that the use of Flettner rotors will contribute to considerable savings, up to 22.28% of the annual ship's fuel consumption. The pay-back period of the proposed concept will be 6 years with a considerable value of levelized cost of energy. Environmentally, NOx and CO2 emissions will be reduced by 270.4 and 9272 ton/year with cost-effectiveness of $1912 and $55.8/ton, respectively, at annual interest rate of 10%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The standardized herbal preparation, STW 5, is effective clinically in functional gastrointestinal disorders and experimentally in ulcerative colitis (UC). The present study explores whether the beneficial effect of STW 5 involves influencing the intestinal microbiota. Methods: UC was induced in Wistar rats by feeding them 5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in drinking water for 7 days. Rats were treated concurrently with STW 5 and sacrificed 24 h after last drug administration. Fecal samples were used to determine changes in the abundance of selected microbial phyla and genera using real-time PCR. Results: Induction of UC led to dysbiosis and changes in the gut microbiota. The changes included an increase in some genera of the Firmicutes, namely Enterococcus, and a decrease in others, namely Blautia, Clostridium, and Lactobacillus. DSS further induced a marked increase in the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria as well as in the relative abundance of Actinobacteria and its genus Bifidobacterium. Methanobrevibacter levels (phylum Euryarchaeota) were also increased. Microbial dysbiosis was associated with changes in various parameters of colonic inflammation. STW 5 effectively guarded against those changes and significantly affected the indices of edema and inflammation in the UC model. Changes in colon length, colon mass index, inflammatory and apoptotic markers, and histological changes induced by DSS were also prevented. Conclusions: Dysbiosis plays a contributing role in the development of DSS-induced UC. Derangements in the microbial flora and associated inflammatory processes were largely prevented by STW 5, suggesting that this effect might contribute towards its beneficial usefulness in this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Streptococcus agalactiae (S. agalactiae) is a contagious pathogen of bovine mastitis. It has financial implications for the dairy cattle industry in certain areas of the world. Since antimicrobial resistance increases in dairy farms, natural antimicrobials from herbal origins and nanoparticles have been given more attention as an alternative therapy. Hence, this study reported the antimicrobial and antibiofilm potentials of cinnamon oil, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and their combination against multidrug-resistant (MDR) S. agalactiae recovered from clinical bovine mastitis in Egypt. Results: Our findings revealed that 73% (146/200) of the examined milk samples collected from dairy cows with clinical mastitis were infected with Streptococci species. Of these, 9.59% (14/146) were identified as S. agalactiae and categorized as MDR. S. agalactiae isolates expressed four virulence genes (Hyl, cylE, scpB, and lmb) and demonstrated an ability to produce biofilms. Cinnamon oil showed high antimicrobial (MICs ≤0.063 μg /mL) and antibiofilm (MBIC50 = 4 μg/mL) potentials against planktonic and biofilms of S. agalactiae isolates, respectively. However, AgNPs showed reasonable antimicrobial (MICs ≤16 μg/mL) and relatively low antibiofilm (MBIC50 = 64 μg/mL) activities against screened isolates. Synergistic antimicrobial or additive antibiofilm interactions of cinnamon oil combined with AgNPs were reported for the first time. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis revealed that biofilms of S. agalactiae isolates treated with cinnamon oil were more seriously damaged than observed in AgNPs cinnamon oil combination. Moreover, reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) showed that cinnamon oil exerted a remarkable down-regulation of pili biosynthesis genes (pilA and pilB) and their regulator (rogB) against S. agalactiae biofilms, meanwhile the AgNPs cinnamon oil combination demonstrated a lower efficacy. Conclusions: This is an in vitro preliminary approach that documented the antibiofilm potential of cinnamon oil and the inhibitory activity of cinnamon oil and its combination with AgNPs against MDR S. agalactiae recovered from clinical mastitis. Further in vivo studies should be carried out in animal models to provide evidence of concept for implementing these alternative candidates in the treatment of dairy farms infected by streptococcal mastitis in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The aim was to assess the value of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) before endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in ultrasonographically and laboratory diagnosed obstructive jaundice. Background Obstructive jaundice is highly prevalent in Egypt, resulting in high morbidity, with increasing cost-burden. Numerous investigations are proposed for diagnosis of obstructive jaundice, such as ERCP and MRCP, with high sensitivity and specificity among other investigations, for diagnosing the cause of obstructive jaundice. However, ERCP is considered an invasive method that must be preserved as a life boat for therapy. Patients and methods A prospective randomized controlled study was conducted at General Surgery Department, Menoufia University Hospital, on 60 patients divided to two groups. First group patients underwent MRCP (30 patients) before ERCP, and the second group patients underwent ERCP only (30 patients). Results In the first group (MRCP±ERCP), scheduled ERCP was canceled in 10 patients of 30 patients (33.3%) owing to negative MRCP detection for stone or tumor. ERCP was done for 20 patients of 30 patients (66.6%), with successful intervention (94.7%) either in extraction of stone (in case of small stones) or stent placement (in large stones or tumors). In the second group, ERCP directly was done for 30 patients. Unnecessary ERCP was done for nine (30%) cases. Success intervention rate for ERCP in detection of stone or malignancy was 90.4%. This study showed a peak increase in accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity after addition of MRCP before ERCP in the diagnosis the cause of obstructive jaundice. Conclusion This study showed that MRCP before ERCP is very beneficial, decreases considerably the number of unnecessary ERCP, and decreases postoperative complications of ERCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strangles displays a major challenge to veterinary medicine worldwide. However, no data on Streptococcus equi subsp. equi (S. equi) M protein alleles have been reported so far from Arabian horses. We report here for the first time the S. equi SeM alleles causing strangles in Arabian horses, and the associated risk factors for the disease. Duplicate samples from one hundred Arabian horses with acute strangles in confirmed outbreaks and sporadic cases were analysed by phenotypic methods and multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting streptokinase precursor, seeI and sodA genes. PCR and sequencing of S. equi SeM gene were employed for strains typing, and the four superantigens were determined among the allelic variants. Direct‐sample PCR confirmed and highly positively correlated (r =.85) with the phenotypic results, and detected S. equi in five samples more than the conventional culture. A combination of multiplex PCR from samples and culture could successfully identify S. equi (92%), S. zooepidemicus (5%) and S. equisimilis (3%). SeM typing demonstrated five SeM alleles, including four previously unidentified alleles that were deposited in the PubMLST‐SeM database. SeM‐139 and SeM‐141 are related to some strains that were recently recovered from donkeys in China. SeM‐140 and SeM‐199 are related to a group of alleles from horses in Europe. Variation in the presence of seeM, seeH and seeL superantigens was found across the four novel alleles without interference with the severity of strangles and clinical presentation seen in different outbreaks. Horse age was the most important factor in developing strangles, followed by seasonality and the diagnosis of strangles in the previous year. These new findings comprise a significant contribution to the horse industry through the identification of novel S. equi SeM types that may bolster measures for strangles control as the identified SeM alleles will certainly help in the development of SeM‐containing vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients treated with maintenance haemodialysis (MHD) have alarmingly high atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality. Nitric oxide (NO) is the principal endogenous antiatherosclerotic molecule. Increased asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous NO synthase inhibitor, was strongly implicated in endothelial dysfunction, premature atherosclerosis, vascular events, and mortality. Regular physical exercise effectively decreased serum ADMA in several patient cohorts, but this potential benefit has not been specifically explored among MHD patients. Forty-four middle-aged ESRD patients treated with thrice-weekly MHD for ≥6 months completed a 6-months regimen of peridialytic lower limb exercise comprising predialytic 10–12 stretching cycles and 20–30 minutes of intradialytic pedaling cycles. Before and after the study, predialytic haemoglobin, serum ADMA, urea, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured. Dialysis adequacy was assessed by single-pool Kt/V. The average total physical activity (PA) level was assessed by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). P values <0.05 denoted a statistical significance. The overall level of PA, on both categorical and continuous scales, has significantly increased after application of the exercise program. However, S. ADMA increased from a median of 2375 to 3000 ng/mL (P = 0.016). Thirty-one patients sustained an increase in S. ADMA (ADMA_Inc), whereas 13 patients had a declining or stable S. ADMA (ADMA_Dec). Compared with ADMA_Inc, ADMA_Dec patients had significantly higher Kt/V (P = 0.02), higher grade of the basal general PA level (P = 0.017), and significantly fewer intradialytic hypotension episodes (IDHs) (P = 0.019). The increase in the S. ADMA and the poststudy S. ADMA level had statistically significant positive correlations with the number of IDHs (r = 0.401, P = 0.007 and r = 0.305, P = 0.044 , respectively). A 6-month program of combined aerobic and resistance peridialytic exercise failed to reduce S. ADMA in most MHD patients studied. A modest S. ADMA decline, however, occurred in patients with higher basal PA levels, higher Kt/V, and less IDHs. A potential exercise benefit may be promoted by a multidisciplinary approach targeting increased PA, improved dialysis efficiency, and prevention of IDHs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess SARS-CoV-2 virus in conjunctival tears and secretions of positive confirmed COVID-19 patients. Methods: A case series study that included 28 positive COVID-19 patients confirmed with nasopharyngeal swab in the period 18– 28 May 2020 at Sohag Tropical Medicine Hospital. Tears and conjunctival secretions of these confirmed positive cases were collected with disposable sampling swabs at interval of 3 days after admission due to respiratory symptoms. They were examined for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) assay. Results: Thirteen (46.43%) patients were stable, 4 (14.28%) patients suffered from dyspnea, 3 (10.72%) patients suffered from high fever, 5 (17.85%) patients suffered from cough, and 3 (10.72%) patients were on mechanical ventilation. Ten (35.71%) patients suffered from conjunctivitis. Tear and conjunctival swabs were positive in 8 (28.57%) patients, while other patients' swabs were negative (71.43%). Out of 10 patients with conjunctival manifestations, 3 patients had SARS-CoV-2 in their conjunctiva using (RT‐PCR) test. Out of the 18 patients with no conjunctival manifestations, 5 patients had positive SARS-CoV-2 in their conjunctiva using (RT‐PCR) test. Conclusion: The SARS-CoV-2 virus could be found in tears and conjunctival secretions in SARS-CoV-2 patients with or without conjunctivitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) is a new Coronavirus, with first reported human infections in late 2019. COVID-19 has been officially declared as a universal pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). The epidemiological characteristics of COVID-2019 have not been completely understood yet. More than 200,000 persons were killed during this epidemic (till 1 May 2020). Therefore, developing forecasting models to predict the spread of that epidemic is a critical issue. In this study, statistical and artificial intelligence based approaches have been proposed to model and forecast the prevalence of this epidemic in Egypt. These approaches are autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and nonlinear autoregressive artificial neural networks (NARANN). The official data reported by The Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population of COVID-19 cases in the period between 1 March and 10 May 2020 was used to train the models. The forecasted cases showed a good agreement with officially reported cases. The obtained results of this study may help the Egyptian decision-makers to put short-term future plans to face this epidemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a global challenge. Improving public awareness about preventive measures and disseminating appropriate information about COVID-19 has a critical role in containing the disease. Aim: To evaluate and determine the factors that may affect the level of awareness and responses toward COVID-19 in Arab countries. The study could be helpful in identifying where more public education about COVID-19 is needed. Method: This cross-sectional, online descriptive questionnaire-based study was conducted in February and March 2020. A total of 485 participants from Arabic-speaking countries (Jordan, United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Palestine, and Egypt) were asked to complete this Arabic-translated survey using social media platforms (Facebook and WhatsApp). Result: In general, there was a good level of awareness of the participants regarding COVID-19. Higher awareness scores were significantly correlated with older participants [odds ratio (OR) 1.019; 95% CI 1.012–1.026], those who attended awareness campaigns [OR 1.212; 95% CI 1.081–1.358], secondary school education holders [OR 1.740; 95% CI 1.096–2.763], higher education diploma holders [OR 2.090; 95% CI 1.297–3.368], university degree holders [OR 1.969; 95% CI 1.265–3.066], those who have post-graduate education [OR 2.206; 95% CI 1.393–3.493], and healthcare employees [OR 1.259; 95% CI 1.025–1.547]. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic is causing global panic; thus, awareness and practices of preventive measures of COVID-19 should be increased through public educational campaigns, which should be planned in accordance with communities' and countries' attitudes toward COVID-19. Collaborative efforts between ministries of heath and residents of every country should be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) distilled from three wild Artemisia species, Artemisia herba‐alba, Artemisia judaica, and Artemisia monosperma, collected from Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, were analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). The antibacterial activities of the EOs for all species were determined using the Agar disc diffusion method. The yield of the EOs ranged from 0.16 to 0.49%. The results showed that A. monosperma plants growing in Saudi Arabia gave the highest yield, compared with A. herba‐alba, A. judaica, and A. monosperma collected from Egypt. In total, 92 volatile compounds were identified from the aerial parts of the plants using GC‐MS. Oxygenated monoterpenes were the major class in A. herba‐alba (75.31%) and A. judaica (83.07%), whereas monoterpene hydrocarbons were the major representative group in A. monosperma collected from both Saudi Arabia (34.23%) and Egypt (36.23%). Yomogi alcohol (22.4%), artemesia alcohol (9.91%), and 1,8‐cineole (9.68%) were the major components of the EO of A. herba‐alba, whereas camphor (31.4%), piperitone (29.9%), and endo‐borneol (5.72%) were characterized as the main compounds in A. judaica. β‐Vinylnaphthalene (24.89%), β‐eudesmol (15.41%), and β‐pinene (20.67%) represented the main components of the EO of Saudi Arabian A. monosperma, but β‐pinene (11.89%), (–)‐spathulenol (8.84%), p‐cymene (8.83%), and shyobunone (7.05%) were the major components of the EO of Egyptian A. monosperma. Herein, a comparative analysis between the EOs of Egyptian Artemisia and those collected from Saudi Arabia was performed with principal components analysis (PCA) and agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranged from 0.5 to2.5 μL per disc against different microorganisms. Artemisia judaica and A. monosperma (Saudi Arabia) plants had the highest MICs and A. monosperma (Egypt) had the lowest MIC, which may indicate different compositions as a result of climatic variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To evaluate the outcomes of femtosecond laser-assisted implantation of a 355-degree intracorneal ring (ICR) (Keraring) in patients with keratoconus in the three-year follow-up. Setting. Future Femtolaser Center, Sohag, Egypt. Design. Prospective interventional case series. Patients and Methods. A prospective case series of 38 eyes of 26 patients with keratoconus had implantation of the 355-degree ICR keraring after tunnel creation with a femtosecond laser. The uncorrected visual acuities (UCVA) and best-corrected visual acuities (BCVA), sphere, cylinder, and manifest refraction spherical equivalent (SE), and mean keratometry (K), K max, and K min were evaluated preoperatively and 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months postoperatively, and all complications were reported. Results. 38 eyes of 26 patients with mean age 25.92 ± 5.44 years were enrolled in the study, 11 were males (42.3%). The mean UCVA improved from 0.93 ± 0.21 to 0.63 ± 0.21 logMAR (P≤0.001) and the mean BCVA from 0.67 ± 0.22 to 0.43 ± 0.26 logMAR (P<0.001). The mean sphere, cylinder, and spherical equivalent have been changed dramatically from preoperative to 3 month postoperative, which is statistically significant (P≤0.001), and the changes between 1 and 2 years and 2 and 3 years are also considerable and statistically significant; the K max and K min and K mean improved and the changes were statistically significant (P≤0.001), and the changes between one, two, and three years were also statistically significant. The safety and efficacy indices were changed through the three-year follow-up. The complications were corneal neovascularization (36.84%), corneal melting (26.3%), and ring extrusion (31.5%) at the end of the study. Conclusions. Implantation of a 355-degree intracorneal keraring using femtosecond laser improved the visual, refractive, and topographic parameters in keratoconus patients, with a high rate of ICR extrusion and instability. The study has been registered for the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.pactr.org) database within No: PACTR201810796878908 on 29 October 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To report the pattern of childhood-onset uveitis observed in Egypt from May 2010 to May 2017 Methods: Retrospective evaluation of the data of all patients with uveitis diagnosed before the age of 16 and visiting uveitis referral clinics in 5 Egyptian Governorates (Alexandria, Cairo, Al Bohayra (Damanhour), Al Gharbeya (Tanta), and Sohag) between May 2010 and May 2017. Results: A total of 413 uveitis patients were enrolled. These included 219 male and 194 female patients. Uveitis was bilateral in 68.3% of the patients. The most frequently observed ocular complications were cataract, glaucoma, and cystoid macular edema. The percentage of children with a visual acuity ≥1.00 logMAR in at least one eye by the final visit was 21.8%. Conclusion: Pediatric uveitis is a vision-threatening condition which caused more than one-fifth of the children in this study to lose vision in one or both eyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monogenea is a class constituting the ectoparasitic flukes mainly on skin and gills of fish, with greater diversity of species worldwide. In the present study, four different species of monogenean parasites were recorded; they were isolated from gills of four freshwater fish species captured from locations along the River Nile, Qena governorate, Egypt. These were Cichlidogyrus aegypticus from Oreochromis niloticus (93.33, 28/30); Protoancylodiscoides malapteruri from Malapterurus electricus (90%, 18/ 20). Quadricanthus bagrae from Bagrus bajad (30%, 15/ 50), and Ancyrocephalus sp. from Mormyrus kannume (75%, 30/ 40). The recovered parasites were described by light microscopy, where the different sclerotized parts of the haptor and copulatory organs were used as key of identification of each species. C. aegypticus can be differentiated by the presence of haptor with two pairs of strongly developed anchors, two long projections of the complex bar and a narrow copulatory tube with a wide basal funnel. P. malapteruri was characterized by the presence of broad haptor with two large dorsal and two small ventral hamuli. Ancyrocephalus sp. was characterized by a haptor which was not clearly demarcated from the anterior body with ventral and dorsal anchors similar in shape. Quadriacanthus bagrae was discriminated by possessing a complex bar with long projection at the center and two long ends, the dorsal and ventral anchors were without distinct roots. The present study represented new locality records for these species off the River Nile, Qena governorate, Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To evaluate the corneal endothelial cell density and morphology in normal Egyptian eyes. Methods. In total, 568 healthy eyes of 568 Egyptian volunteers aged 20 to 85 years were examined using noncontact specular microscopy for the central corneal thickness (CCT), mean endothelial cell density (MCD), coefficient of variation (CV) in cell area, mean cell area (MCA), and hexagonal cell (Hex) percentage. Variables were compared between sexes and between different age groups. Results. The mean CCT, MCD, and MCA were 514.45 ± 43.04 μm, 2647.50 ± 382.62 cells/mm2, and 390.59 ± 149.94 μm2, respectively. MCD and MCA showed no significant differences between men and women (P=0.171 and 0.099, respectively), whereas CV (%) and Hex (%) showed significant differences (P=0.024 and 0.015, respectively). CCT (P=0.007, r = −0.113) and MCD (P<0.001, r = −0.357) exhibited a significant negative correlation with age, whereas CV (%) (P<0.001, r = 0.341) and MCA (P=0.008, r = 0.111) exhibited a significant positive correlation. The mean rate of endothelial cell loss from 20 to 85 years of age was 0.3% per year. Conclusions. Our results provide normative data for the corneal endothelium in healthy Egyptian eyes, thus increasing the knowledge base for corneal endothelial cell parameters in healthy Egyptian eyes. Furthermore, our findings can be used as baseline values for comparisons between Egyptian and other populations and for studies of the endothelial cell reserve and capacity for intraocular surgery and corneal transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to undertake the evaluation and examination of the productivity change of the Egyptian banking sector. Using a novel data set covering 14 banks operating in the Egyptian market from 1997 to 2013. We use a nonparametric approach (based on data envelopment analysis (DEA)) to investigate the productivity change in the Egyptian banking sector. Input-oriented Malmquist indices of productivity change are estimated with DEA to measure total factor productivity (TFP) change. The TFP changes are decomposed into the product of technological change and technical efficiency change (catch-up). In the second stage, we study potential determinants of productivity change using a regression model. We find that the Egyptian banking sector as a whole shows a productivity regress of 0.9% per year, mainly due to the technological improvements. The estimated regression model identifies some variables that significantly influence the productivity of banks in Egypt. The banks with higher loan to deposit ratio and higher returns on equity have higher productivity growth reflecting on their strong strategic and managerial skills. The size of a bank seems to be associated with an increase in productivity. The maturity of a bank (measured by age) is associated with higher productivity. The NIM and NIETA variables do not seem to be affecting the productivity of banks. Surprisingly, our results reveal that the financial crisis was negatively and statistically insignificant, hence it had no effect on the Egyptian banks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lateral epicondylopathy is a frequent overload injury of the common wrist extensor tendons. This study was designed to compare between the effects of the pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) and microcurrent electrical nerve stimulation (MENS) on improving pain intensity, threshold, and grip strength in patients with lateral epicondylopathy. Methods: Eighty-four subjects were randomly assigned into three equal groups. Group 1 received PEMF and exercises, group 2 received MENS and exercises, and group 3 received exercises. All subjects received three visits a week for 4 weeks. The visual analogue scale, the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand questionnaire and the hand dynamometer were used to measure pain intensity, disability and grip strength. Results: There were improvements in all dependent variables. Also, subjects who received PEMF and exercises had the most significant effects. PEMF may be more effective than MENS in treating lateral epicondylopathy by reducing pain intensity, disability and increasing grip strength. Conclusions: PEMF may be more effective than MENS in treating lateral epicondylopathy by reducing pain intensity, disability and increasing grip strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Avian mycoplasmas impose a significant economic burden to the poultry industry. In recent years, macrolide-resistant Mycoplasma gallisepticum have occasionally been encountered in Egypt. Methodology: This study was designed to document the involvement of macrolide-resistant M. gallisepticum in respiratory organs of chickens suffering respiratory problems. Concurrently, an exhaustive molecular characterization of the intrinsic resistance of recovered isolates to macrolides was done. Results: Of 120 chickens showing respiratory problems, 14 (11.67%) M. gallisepticum were isolated and genetically identified; 8 of them were recovered from air sacs, 4 from lungs, and 2 from tracheas. Broth microdilution of all M. gallisepticum isolates showed various degrees of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against macrolides: erythromycin (0.25-32 µg/mL), tylosin (0.0625-4 µg/mL), and tiamulin (0.031-2 µg/mL). Nucleotide sequencing of domain V (peptidyl transferase region) of the 23S rRNA gene of macrolide-resistant M. gallisepticum isolates revealed transition mutations at positions 2068 and 2069 (corresponding to 2058 and 2059 in Escherichia coli numbering) in an isolate and at position 2067 (corresponding to 2057 in E. coli numbering) in three isolates as hot spots for macrolide resistance. Surprisingly, a transversion mutation at position 2621 (corresponding to 2611 in E. coli numbering) was reported in one of the recovered isolates as a first report. Conclusion: Generation of new mutations is evidence for persistence of M. gallisepticum despite macrolide treatment. Periodic surveys to monitor for the possible appearance of resistant strains are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate of the productivity change of the Egyptian Banking sector by using a data set which cover 14 banks operating in the Egyptian market from 1997 to 2013. We use a non-parametric approach Data Envelopment Analysis based analysis to investigate the productivity change in the Egyptian banking sector. Inputoriented Malmquist indices of productivity change are estimated to measure total factor productivity (TFP) change. The TFP changes are decomposed into the product of technological change and technical efficiency change (catch-up). In the second stage, potential determinants of productivity change are studied using a regression model. We find that Egyptian banking sector experienced a decline in TFP growth at the rate of 2.55% in the whole sample period 1997-03. The estimated regression model identifies some variables which significantly influence the productivity of banks in Egypt. The banks with higher loans to deposit ratio and higher returns on equity have higher productivity growth reflecting on their strong strategic and managerial skills. The size of bank seems to be associated with an increase in productivity. The maturity of a bank (measured by age) is associated with higher productivity. The NIM, NIETA and the financial crisis variables do not seem to be affecting the productivity of the Egyptian banks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The public health importance of the genus Campylobacter is attributed to several species causing diarrhea in consumers. Poultry and their meat are considered the most important sources of human campylobacteriosis. In this study, 287 samples from chicken (131 cloacal swabs, 39 chicken skin, 78 chicken meat, and 39 cecal parts) obtained from retail outlets as well as 246 stool swabs from gastroenteritis patients were examined. A representative number of the biochemically identified Campylobacter jejuni isolates were identified by real-time PCR, confirming the identification of the isolates as C. jejuni. Genotyping of the examined isolates ( n = 31) by enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus PCR (ERIC-PCR) revealed a high discriminatory index of ERIC-PCR ( D = 0.948), dividing C. jejuni isolates of chicken and human origins into 18 profiles and four clusters. The 18 profiles obtained indicated the heterogeneity of C. jejuni. Dendrogram analysis showed that four clusters were generated; all human isolates fell into clusters I and III. These observations further support the existence of a genetic relationship between human and poultry isolates examined in the present study. In conclusion, the results obtained support the speculation that poultry and poultry meat have an important role as sources of infection in the acquisition of Campylobacter infection in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]