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Given the proven zoonotic potential of the intestinal protozoan Blastocystis sp., a fast-growing number of surveys are being conducted to identify potential animal reservoirs for transmission of the parasite. Nevertheless, few epidemiological studies have been conducted on farmed animals in Egypt. Therefore, a total of 1089 fecal samples were collected from herbivores (sheep, goats, camels, horses, and rabbits) in six Egyptian governorates (Dakahlia, Gharbia, Kafr El Sheikh, Giza, Aswan, and Sharqia). Samples were screened for the presence of Blastocystis sp. by real-time PCR followed by sequencing of positive PCR products and phylogenetic analysis for subtyping of the isolates. Overall, Blastocystis sp. was identified in 37.6% of the samples, with significant differences in frequency between animal groups (sheep, 65.5%; camels, 62.2%; goats, 36.0%; rabbits, 10.1%; horses, 3.3%). Mixed infections were reported in 35.7% of the Blastocystis sp.-positive samples. A wide range of subtypes (STs) with varying frequency were identified from single infections in ruminants including sheep (ST1–ST3, ST5, ST10, ST14, ST21, ST24, ST26, and ST40), goats (ST1, ST3, ST5, ST10, ST26, ST40, ST43, and ST44), and camels (ST3, ST10, ST21, ST24–ST26, ST30, and ST44). Most of them overlapped across these animal groups, highlighting their adaptation to ruminant hosts. In other herbivores, only three and two STs were evidenced in rabbits (ST1–ST3) and horses (ST3 and ST44), respectively. The greater occurrence and wider genetic diversity of parasite isolates among ruminants, in contrast to other herbivores, strongly suggested that dietary habits likely played a significant role in influencing both the colonization rates of Blastocystis sp. and ST preference. Of all the isolates subtyped herein, 66.3% were reported as potentially zoonotic, emphasizing the significant role these animal groups may play in transmitting the parasite to humans. These findings also expand our knowledge on the prevalence, genetic diversity, host specificity, and zoonotic potential of Blastocystis sp. in herbivores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geochemical analysis was performed on the Cretaceous sequence of the Azhar‐A‐2 well in the West Beni Suef Basin (WBSB), Western Desert, Egypt, utilizing data on total organic carbon (TOC), kerogen composition, vitrinite reflectance (Ro%) and Rock‐Eval pyrolysis. In addition, a 1D basin model was built to investigate the burial and temperature history of the study area. The most important Cretaceous source rocks are predominantly reported within the Albian Kharita Formation and Late Cenomanian‐Santonian Abu Roash (AR) Formation. Based on visual kerogen tests and Rock‐Eval pyrolysis, AR Formation (A, E, F, and G) are mixed oil‐ and gas‐prone source rocks with kerogens ranging from type II to type III, where A/R 'A and F' Members show dominant oil‐prone kerogen with the highest generative potential, while A/R 'E and G' Members are more gas‐prone kerogen. Most samples of the lower Kh Formation were interpreted as gas‐prone kerogen type III with low generative potential. On the other hand, the high amount of liptinite in the visual kerogen macerals is a strong indicator that the lower Petroleum Formation is an oil‐prone rather than gas‐prone source rock. The thermal maturity of the studied members increases consistently with depth, ranging from immature at the top of the AR Formation to the main/peak oil window at the base of the Lower Kharita Formation, which served as an active source rock for the hydrocarbons generated in the WBSB. The high value of the heat flow in the Beni Suef Basin (57 and 60 mW/m2) is a good indicator for the shallowing of the active source rock depth limit depth. From the study of the basin modeling, the main mature zone reached between 9811 and 11,090 ft in the middle of the Late Cretaceous (84.3–82.5 Ma) is through the L. Kharita Formation with three phases of hydrocarbon generation according to transformation ratio, where the second phase is the main stage in which TR is 5%–50%, showing the beginning of oil expulsion (Ro: 0.73%–0.78%, possibly 0.81%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, MAFLD becomes in the top list of causes of liver disease. Its effect ranges from steatosis, metabolic steato-hepatitis to MAFLD-related cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. There is a growing evidence that MAFLD-related HCC seems to be different from HCCs of other causes pathologically, so the purpose of our study was to assess the effect of MAFLD on the prognosis of HCC regarding outcome after management of HCC and survival rate in comparison to a group of patients with HCV-related HCC. Results: Twenty-nine patients with MAFLD related HCC were included in group A, while 58 patients with HCV related HCC were enrolled as group B. Both groups were matched regarding age and gender. The mean age in group A and B was 58.86 (±8.47) years and 60/05(± 6.83) years respectively. Comparison between both groups regarding tumor burden and characteristics of HCC, type of management, and post intervention follow-up showed no significant statistical difference between both groups except for lymph node metastases which was higher in patients with HCV related HCC with p = 0.045. Also, a significant difference between both studied groups regarding AFP was detected; the median of AFP in MAFLD-related HCC was (7.2 ng/ml) but much higher in HCV-related HCC group (129.2 ng/ml) with p = 0.001. Conclusion: Our data showed no significant difference between the two studied groups regarding outcome of HCC or survival rate except for AFP level before and after management which was higher in HCV patients related HCC. Although both of inclusion and exclusion criteria were strict to the criteria, so the number of participants in the research were not large enough; to our knowledge, this is the first study on MAFLD-HCC in Egypt and Africa. More studies on prospective bases are essentially needed to stand on solid conclusion about the nature and outcome of MAFLD-related HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Background: Ultrasonography had diagnostic importance in the evaluation of different diseases in buffaloes, including cardiovascular diseases. Aim: The current work describes the normal echocardiographic findings in healthy buffaloes, along with establishing reference values for echocardiographic dimensions for both sides of the heart, i.e., left and right ones. Methods: About 30 healthy adult buffaloes that belonged to private farms in Assiut, Egypt, were included in this study. Each animal underwent a complete clinical evaluation as well as hematological analyses, lipid profile indices, liver functions, cardio-thoracic radiography, and echocardiography to confirm no diseased conditions were detected. The study was conducted on healthy buffaloes (n = 30) in Assiut Governorate, Egypt. Results: The obtained results reported healthy buffaloes with normal clinical findings as well as indices of blood pictures and serum biochemicals that were within the reference intervals. Radiography revealed a free reticulum and a welldefined diaphragm. The heart was seen as a typical radio-opaque organ. Ultrasonographically, using grayscale B-mode and M-mode, the heart was commonly imaged from the left fourth intercostal space. Different echocardiographic views were described, including the four chamber view, i.e., right atrium (RA), right ventricle (RV), tricuspid valve (TCV), left atrium, left ventricle, mitral valve, and interventricular septum (IVS), and the right ventricular outflow tract, i.e., RA, TCV, RV, pulmonary artery (PA), and pulmonary valve. Cross sections in each of the apex and base of the heart were described. Echocardiographic dimensions during cardiac diastole and systole, including diameters and wall thickness of each of the atria and ventricles, were demonstrated. Interventricular septal thickness wall thickness as well as diameters of the aorta and PA, were stated. Conclusion: The work tried to put reference values on the normal echocardiographic dimensions using 2-D B-mode gray scale ultrasonography in healthy adult buffaloes. These echocardiographic reference dimensions with normal echocardiographic imaging will be very helpful in enhancing the diagnostic efficacy of ultrasounds for recognizing abnormal findings related to cardiac disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a significant global health concern. The prevailing genotype of HCV in Egypt is 4a, commonly referred to as GT‐4a. A significant proportion exceeding 50% of patients infected with HCV experience extrahepatic manifestations (EHMs), encompassing a diverse range of clinical presentations. These manifestations, including essential mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC), can serve as initial and solitary indicators of the disease. The complete understanding of the pathogenesis of EHM remains unclear, with autoimmune phenomena being recognized as the primary causative factor. In this study, we examined the predictive significance of T‐cell subpopulations in relation to the occurrence and prognosis of cryoglobulinemia in HCV patients. A total of 450 CHC genotype four treatment naïve patients were enrolled in this analytic cross‐sectional study after thorough clinical, laboratory, and radiological examinations. All patients underwent laboratory investigations, including testing for cryoglobulin antibodies and measurements of CD4 and CD8 levels; two groups were described according to their test results: Group 1 consists of patients who have tested positive for cryoglobulin antibodies and Group 2 consists of patients who have tested negative for cryoglobulin antibodies. The exclusion criteria encompassed individuals with HIV infection or chronic HBV infection. Additionally, pelvi‐abdominal ultrasonography was performed. Our study included 450 treatment naïve CHC patients (59% male, mean age 50.8 years). The patients were categorized according to their cryoglobulin antibodys test results into two groups: group A, CHC patients with cryoglobulin antibodies (Abs) negative (364 patients), and group B, CHC patients with cryoglobulin Ab positive (86 patients). Group B demonstrated a higher average age, elevated international normalized ratio, more prolonged duration of HCV infection, lower albumin, higher alanine aminotransferase, higher aspartate aminotransferase, higher bilirubin, lower CD8, lower CD4, and lower CD4:CD8 ratio. In contrast, 27 out of 86 (31.40%) patients in group B had symptoms; 85.8% had purpura and arthralgia, 74.3% had paresthesias, 86.7% had weakness, and 12.2% had non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. The levels of CD4 and CD8 were found to be decreased in chronic HCV patients with MC. T‐cell subpopulation serves as a reliable indicator for assessing the prevalence and prognosis of MC in individuals with genotype 4 chronic hepatitis C. However, additional research is needed to further understand the development and spread of various emerging infectious diseases. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that a critical threshold may exist beyond which EHM reaches a point of no return. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blastocystis sp. is currently reported as the most frequent single-celled eukaryote inhabiting the intestinal tract of humans and a wide range of animal groups. Its prevalence is especially higher in developing countries linked with fecal peril. Despite a growing interest in this enteric protozoan, certain geographical regions potentially at high risk of infection, such as North Africa, remain under-investigated. Therefore, a large-scale molecular epidemiological survey, including 825 participants presenting digestive disorders or not, was conducted in five governorates located in Northern Egypt. A real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was performed to identify the parasite in stool samples, followed by direct sequencing of the positive PCR products for subtyping and genotyping of the corresponding isolates. The overall prevalence was shown to reach 72.4% in the Egyptian cohort, coupled with a variable frequency depending on the governorate (41.3 to 100%). Among the 597 positive participants, a large proportion of them (39.4%) presented mixed infections, as determined by sequencing. The remaining individuals with single infection were predominantly colonized by subtype 3 (ST3) (48.3%) followed by ST1 (39.5%), ST2 (10.8%), ST14 (1.1%), and ST10 (0.3%). This was the first report of ST10 and ST14 in North Africa. Age, sex, digestive symptoms, and health status of the participants or contact with animals were not identified as significant risk factors for Blastocystis sp. occurrence or affecting the ST distribution. In contrast, substantial variations in the prevalence and ST distribution of the parasite were reported according to the governorate. Genotyping of isolates revealed the lower intra-ST diversity for ST3, followed by ST1 and then ST2. By combining subtyping and genotyping data, a widespread inter-human transmission was strongly suggested for ST3 within the Egyptian cohort. Regarding ST1 and ST2, additional animal or environmental sources of infection by these STs have been proposed, whereas the few cases of colonization by ST10 and ST14 were likely the result of zoonotic transmission from bovid. These investigations clearly emphasized the active circulation of Blastocystis sp. in Northern Egypt and the necessity for health authorities to implement prevention campaigns towards the population and quality control of drinking water, with the aim of reducing the burden of this enteric protozoan in this endemic country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Organic egg is among the most common organic foods offered for sale in Egyptian markets in recent years, and consumers buy them at a higher price because they believe organic eggs are safer and have superior nutritional value than conventional eggs. Aim: The present work aimed to monitor antimicrobial residues in brown table eggs, whether conventional or organic type, in Aswan governorate markets and assessed their physical and chemical quality and their public health hazards. Methods: Brown table egg samples (n = 400 total) were randomly selected in the present study, in which they represented two equal groups (n = 200 each) including conventional eggs and organic eggs. Eggs were collected from different retail stores in the Aswan governorate, Egypt. Egg samples were subjected to thorough physical and chemical quality evaluation as well as an assessment of antimicrobial residues. Results: The results reported that organic eggs were cleaner and had a better odor, less blood, and meat spots, but smaller with more shell cracks than conventional eggs. Chemical analysis of some nutrient contents in the egg yolk revealed significantly higher nutritive values of organic eggs than that of conventional ones as the organic eggs contain significantly higher levels of vitamin A and vitamin D/D3 and significantly lower values of cholesterol, calcium, magnesium, and zinc than those in conventional eggs. Disc diffusion assay has been used for monitoring antimicrobial residues in egg samples. The results have shown that all examined organic eggs were free from antimicrobial residues, while 12% and 8% of conventional egg yolk and white were positive for antimicrobial residues, respectively. Conclusion: The study concludes the higher nutritive value of organic eggs compared with the conventional type because of their significantly higher contents of vitamins A and D and their significantly lower contents of cholesterol. Moreover, organic eggs were free from antimicrobial residues which maximizes their public health benefits.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper focuses on the geology, petrography, and geochemistry of the well-known Dokhan volcanics encountered in the northern part of the Eastern Desert of Egypt. The basalts, andesites, rhyolites, and agglomerates exposed at the Makhar Seal (flood plain) as well as Wadi Abu Zoghot, Wadi El-Ghafiryia, Wadi Al-Radah Luman, Wadi Al-Ushsh, Wadi Umm Sidrah, and Gabal Ghuwayrib are herein examined as sources of coarse aggregate in concrete mixes. A representative total of 28 samples—collected from different Dokhan volcanics—was studied in terms of field geology, petrography, and geochemistry wherein a variety of experiments related to construction material validation apply. The petrographic examination revealed that the studied Dokhan volcanics consist of basic, intermediate, and acidic volcanic igneous rocks. These rocks are represented through basalts, andesites, imperial porphyry, dacites, rhyodacites, rhyolites, and their pyroclastics. Furthermore, the applied geochemical analysis indicated that the studied Dokhan volcanics are alkaline to sub-alkaline, calc-alkaline and classified as basalts, basaltic andesites, andesites, trachyandesites, trachydacites, trachytes, and rhyolites, indicating an initial potential as aggregate for concrete mixes. Finally, the results obtained from incorporating Dokhan volcanics as aggregates in concrete mixes demonstrated a significant improvement in regard to the properties of the comprising concrete mixes. Herein, a higher compressive strength was witnessed after 28 days for Dokhan volcanic concrete, when compared to concrete comprising dolomite aggregate, amounting to an average increase that exceeded 36%. [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.)

Introduction: The use of cisplatin in clinical practice in the management of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is limited by its toxicity and acquired resistance, which makes the decision‐making process of its prescription multifactorial. Methods: An Egyptian expert panel (comprising nine Egyptian oncologists) meeting was held after a comprehensive literature review on the use of cisplatin in HNSCC. The panel aimed to develop a consensus on evidence‐based recommendations for receiving cisplatin in the chemoradiotherapy management of HNSCC in Egyptian clinical practice. Results: The panel indicated that an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) > 2, creatinine clearance (CCR) < 50 ml/min, neuropathy grade ≥ 2, pre‐existing hearing loss or tinnitus ≥2, hematological problems (platelets < 100,000/mm3, neutrophils < 1500/mm, and hemoglobin < 9 g/dl), and heart failure of New York Heart Association Classes III or IV (even if cardiovascular therapy is optimized); are all absolute contraindications to receiving cisplatin. On the other hand, relative contraindications to cisplatin according to the panel were an ECOG PS of 2, age more than 70 years, CCR between 50 and 60 ml/min, grade 1 neuropathy, grade 1 hearing loss, involuntary weight loss of ≥20% of body weight, Child–Pugh Scores B and C, previous induction chemotherapy, and heart failure of New York Heart Association Classes I or II with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤50%. The panel agreed that the socioeconomic status of patients should be considered when prescribing cisplatin to HNSCC patients. Conclusion: Our discussion resulted in a set of evidence‐based recommendations for cisplatin eligibility criteria in patients of HNSCC in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blastocystis sp. is a widespread enteric protozoan that frequently infects human and animal groups. Despite its burden and zoonotic potential worldwide, epidemiological investigations remain limited in animal groups that come in contact with humans. Therefore, the largest survey ever conducted in North Africa was performed in Egypt with the aim to investigate the prevalence and subtype (ST) distribution of Blastocystis sp. in animals. For this purpose, a total of 889 fecal specimens were collected from chickens (217), cattle (373), dogs (144) and cats (155) from six governorates of northern Egypt. These specimens were then screened for the presence of Blastocystis sp. using a quantitative real-time PCR, followed by subtyping the isolates. The overall prevalence of Blastocystis sp. reached 9.2% (82/889), with the highest infection rates reported in chickens (17.0%) and domestic cattle (11.0%), highlighting an active circulation of the parasite in both animal groups. In contrast, the low prevalence in cats (2.6%) and the absence of the parasite in dogs suggested that pets are not natural hosts of Blastocystis sp. ST10 and ST14 were largely predominant in cattle, confirming that both STs represented cattle-adapted STs. The report of one ST3 and one ST4 isolate in this animal group could be explained by an accidental zoonosis from humans to animals. All but one of the subtyped isolates in poultry belonged to ST7, which was considered as an avian ST. The presence of a remaining isolate of ST14 likely reflected a transient infection from contact between birds and cattle feces. The same environmental contamination was also likely the source of the ST14 infection in three of the four positive cats, with the remaining animals infected by ST3 as the result of human-to-animal transmission. These occurrences and subtyping data, combined with those previously collected in the Egyptian population, implies that poultry could play a significant role as reservoir for zoonotic transmission, which would not be the case for cattle and pets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the northwestern Desert of Egypt, the Beni Suef Basin is one of the most significant hydrocarbon basins. After over 50 years of exploration and production, the main challenge today is to locate new areas that are prolific to oil and gas production. The study aims to identify potential drilling locations by integrating geochemical methods, 1D and 2D basin modelling, well log analysis, seismic interpretation, and hydrocarbon migration pathways. Results show that the Lower Kharita shale contain both oil and gas generating kerogen with generating potential that ranges from fair to very good. The source rocks within the Lower Kharita are mature (main oil window) and have a transformation ratio of up to 60% based on 1D basin modeling. The modelled 2D vitrinite reflectance map showed that hydrocarbon generation occurred at depths greater than 10850 ft (3306 m) with vitrinite reflectance values greater than 0.65% in both the northern and southern parts of the Beni Suef Field. Two main reservoirs were studied. The lower Bahariya and upper Kharita reservoirs are composed of well to moderately sorted sandstone. The subsurface structural maps, reservoirs, source, and charge modeling maps have been constructed to show the migration pathways and accumulation areas. There are three accumulation areas identified. The first accumulation area is located in the high structure up-dip section of the major normal fault, and migration direction is from northwest. The second and third accumulation areas are located in the low structure and down-dip from the normal fault, with migration of hydrocarbons from southeast. The latter two areas should be tested by drilling in the future. • The Lower Kharita shale has kerogen that produces gas and oil. • A transformation ratio of up to 60% is reached by mature source rocks. • Production of hydrocarbons took place below 10,850 feet. • The main reservoirs occurs in the upper Kharita and lower Bahariya formations. [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.)

Enterocytozoon bieneusi is the most common microsporidia in humans worldwide, in addition to infecting a wide range of animals. However, there is limited information about this pathogen in children in Egypt. Here, we carried out a molecular epidemiological study of E. bieneusi in child care centers in three provinces in Egypt. Altogether, 585 fresh fecal samples were collected from children attending 18 child care centers in El-Dakahlia, El-Gharbia, and Damietta provinces in Northeast Egypt during March 2015 to April 2016. PCR and sequence analyses of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) were used to detect and genotype E. bieneusi. Twenty-seven fecal samples (4.6%, 27/585) were positive for E. bieneusi. Five genotypes were identified, including type IV (n = 13), Peru8 (n = 9), Peru6 (n = 2), Peru11 (n = 2), and D (n = 1). Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the five genotypes of E. bieneusi detected in this study were clustered into zoonotic group 1. These data provide important information on the prevalence and genetic diversity of E. bieneusi in children in this country. Further epidemiological studies should be conducted to elucidate the role of zoonotic transmission in human E. bieneusi infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory diseases of cattle represented the most important health and economic problems of cattle rearing. It was possible to diagnose ultrasonographically bronchopneumonia, consolidation, pulmonary emphysema, pleural effusion and pleuritis. The study aimed to correlate between the changes in clinical findings and laboratory assays mainly haematological pictures and serum acute phase proteins (APPs) i.e. haptoglobin, and the characteristic ultrasonographic findings in bovine respiratory diseases and their importance in differentiation between upper respiratory diseases and lower respiratory diseases in cattle. A total number of 84 cattle were included in the study and divided into 3 groups: healthy control group (n=15), upper respiratory diseased group [URG] (n=29) and lower respiratory diseased group [LRG] (n=40). The animals were admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Assiut University-Egypt with a history of anorexia, respiratory distress, nasal discharge, cough and/or abnormal lung sounds. These animals were undergoing clinical and ultrasonographic examinations as well as laboratory analyses. Regarding to the ultrasonographic findings, the diseased cases were classified into URG and LRG. Ultrasonography differentiated many of the affections such as bronchopneumonia (n=16), Lung consolidation (n=12), pulmonary emphysema (n=8), and pleuritis and pleural effusion (n=4). Neutrophilic leukocytosis was reported in URG and LRG. The biochemical assays revealed significant elevation in serum levels of haptoglobin, fibrinogen, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein cholesterol and very low-density lipoprotein in URG and LRG. Serum albumins were remarkably (P<0.05) decreased in URG. The study concluded that thoracic ultrasonography considered a diagnostic tool in cows with respiratory diseases because it determined the location and extent of the lung lesions as well as the severity of the affection. APPs and lipid profile used as biomarkers for the diagnosis of bovine respiratory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egypt is currently witnessing an extensive desert greening plan with a target of adding one and a half million feddans to the agricultural area. The present study evaluates the soil quality in the western desert fringes of the Nile Delta using three indicator datasets, which involve the total dataset (TDS), the minimum dataset (MDS), and the expert dataset (EDS). Three quality index models are included: the Additive Soil Quality Index (SQI-A), the Weighted Additive Soil Quality Index (SQI-W), and the Nemoro Soil Quality Index (SQI-N). Linear and nonlinear scoring functions are evaluated for scoring soil and terrain indicators. Thirteen soil quality indicators and three terrain indicators were measured in 397 sampling sites for soil quality evaluation. Factor analyses determined five soil and terrain indicators for the minimum dataset and their associated weights. The linear scoring functions reflected the soil system functions more than nonlinear scoring functions. Soil quality estimation by the minimum dataset (MDS) and Weighted Additive Soil Quality Index (SQI-W) is more sensitive than that by SQI-A and SQI-N quality models to explain soil quality indicators. The moderate soil quality grade is the largest quality grade in the studied area. The minimum dataset of soil quality indicators could assist in reducing time and cost of evaluating soil quality and monitoring the temporal changes in soil quality of the region due to the increased agricultural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ketosis is one of the most critical metabolic disorders that occur in dairy cows after parturition due to negative energy balance around calving. Aim: The study evaluated a specific therapeutic regimen of ketosis in Holstein dairy cattle by using the combination therapy including hormones, corticosteroids, propylene glycol, and vitamin B12 as well as the use of milk yield rates, insulin, insulin sensitivity, and abomasal functions monitors as diagnostic biomarkers for the recovery of ketotic cows either pre-therapy (0 days) or post-therapy (7 and 14 days). Methods: This study was conducted on ketotic cattle (n = 20) belonged to different dairy farms in Cairo and Giza governorates, Egypt. The diseased cows were undergoing clinical and biochemical investigations for the estimation of serum insulin. Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (RQUICKI) and abomasal functions monitor mainly serum levels of gastrin, pepsinogen, and chloride. Results: The milk production rates, cost: benefit analysis ratio, and benefit of the dairy farm in ketotic animals were significantly increased post-treatment. An improvement of insulin sensitivity was stated as serum insulin, and RQUICKI were remarkably increased in post-therapeutic ketotic cows. Monitors of the abomasal function revealed abomasal functions improvement through the significant elevation of blood gastrin and a substantial reduction in serum pepsinogen due to treatment. Conclusion: The study revealed high efficacy of the applied therapeutic strategy regime. It led to a high recovery rate and a very low relapse rate for ketosis. An improvement in milk yield rates, insulin sensitivity, and abomasal function monitors was reported. Hypoinsulinaemia was still reported, however, serum insulin was improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Egypt more than one‐third of colorectal cancer (CRC) cases occur in individuals aged 40 years and younger, and are diagnosed at advanced stages; currently, CRC screening is not done as a routine part of preventive care. To lay the foundation for the development of a CRC multilevel screening program in Egypt, this qualitative study aimed to explore the perspectives of Egyptian physicians. Materials and Methods: The PRECEDE‐PROCEED model, which focuses on predisposing (intrapersonal), reinforcing (interpersonal), and enabling (structural) factors inherent in health behaviors, served as our theoretical framework. Primary health care physicians, oncologists, and gastroenterologists practicing in Alexandria, Egypt, participated in 1 one‐hour semistructured interview. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, translated into English, and analyzed by thematic analysis. Results: Seventeen physicians participated (n = 8 specialists and n = 9 primary care physicians). Barriers to CRC screening included socioeconomic status, a lack of emphasis on prevention, fear, and cost (predisposing); a belief that only high risk patients should be screened and a lack of confidence in providers to perform and interpret screening tests appropriately (reinforcing); and cost, lack of availability of the tests, and inadequate training for laboratory technicians and providers (enabling). Potential facilitators included implementing a media campaign emphasizing early detection, curability and prevention (predisposing); educating physicians and eliciting physician engagement (reinforcing); and decreasing costs, making screening tests widely available, and providing well‐trained providers (enabling). Conclusion: A CRC screening program is needed in Egypt, and to be successful it would likely need to address barriers at multiple levels. Implications for Practice: In Egypt, colorectal screening is not a routine part of preventive care, and colorectal cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage in individuals aged 40 years or younger. Screening can prevent and detect colorectal cancer in its early stages, but before designing any screening program, understanding the context is important as cultural beliefs may impact the acceptability of screening methods. By exploring the perspectives of Egyptian physicians, this study found important insights into how screening program components should be considered in the Egyptian culture and lays the foundation for the development of a multilevel colorectal screening program in Egypt. To provide a foundation for the development of a colorectal cancer screening program in Egypt, this article explores perspectives of primary care physicians and specialists related to knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes about colorectal cancer screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this paper is to develop a model which is capable of assessing the overall condition of bridges as well as the condition of each element for the purpose of prioritizing maintenance strategies. The model will also be capable of ranking the bridges in a network according to their urgency of need for repair based on specific parameters. This paper explains how to achieve reliable assessment of a bridge starting with visual inspection and proceeding with the collection of information and carrying out in-depth investigations to achieve a reliable indication of the bridge's repair needs and its priority in the road network. The model is designed especially for bridges in Egypt as a typical example of a developing country. The methodology of the research was started by surveying the various inspection techniques of bridges. Then all probable defects, their causes and the appropriate repair techniques are identified and classified. After that, the experience and knowledge of bridge maintenance experts in Egypt were added to create evaluation criteria for reliable assessment model to prioritize maintenance strategy of bridges. This is incorporated via conducting questionnaires and interviewing those experts. The final outcome is a Bridge Overall Priority Indicator (BOPI) that ranks the bridges in a network according to their condition and maintenance urgency. The model is designed to be applied to the bridges in Egypt as it is based on the body of knowledge and expertise gained by maintenance and repair experts but it can easily be adjusted to suit any other country. Also the model is designed to cover specific bridge elements which are of major significance in bridge performance as described in this work while overlooking some, less important, elements. It has been observed that there is no effective bridge maintenance plan in most of the developing countries and that in most cases maintenance is carried out after an event has occurred and resulted in severe damage and caused a public outcry. Also developing countries have limited budgets for maintaining their assets. Therefore, it is very important to have an assessment criterion as a development tool to optimize the use of scarce maintenance budgets and get the most out of aging bridge networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Combination of Docetaxel and Prednisone has been suggested to improve the response rate in patients with prostate cancer. The objective of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of Docetaxel-Prednisone combination in treating patients with prostate cancer. Subjects and Methods: A total of 30 chemo-naïve patients with histologically-proven prostate adenocarcinoma were followed-up in this local, prospective, multi-center study. All patients were to be given docetaxel-prednisone (75 mg/m² and 10 mg daily, respectively) for 4 cycles. Data were recorded at different time-points; at the baseline visit, during each treatment administration and at the end of the treatment. Results: Sixteen (53.4%) patients received Docetaxel 75 mg/m2, and 21 (70%) of patients were given a daily dose of Prednisone ≤ 10 mg/m2. A total of 22 (73.3%) patients showed a response to treatment, whether partial 19 (63.3%) or complete 3 (10%). The mean of Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) level decreased from 182.5±258.1 mg/dl at the baseline to 46.6±112.5 mg/dl after 4 cycles of treatment (p < 0.001). Thirteen adverse events in 7 (23.3%) patients have been reported; five events with neutropenia, and two each of diarrhea, peripheral neuropathy, and anemia, and one event each for dehydration and fatigue. Conclusion: The combination of Docetaxel-Prednisone in treating patients with prostate cancer in Egypt was efficient incomplete/partial tumor response and led to a significant reduction in PSA levels CCI can be used in scoring different comorbidities which should be treated to optimize and gain a survival benefit from treatment. Weight of common diseases in the Egyptian patients should be considered [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to address the impact of the related party transactions (RPTs) on firm value. The authors bring evidence from a usually ignored empirical setting: an African emerging market. Design/methodology/approach: In particular, the authors focus on companies listed on the Egyptian stock market using a sample of EGX 30 from 2012 to 2017. Findings: Unlike the literature, the authors find no significant relationship between RPTs and market value. Practical implications: This research provides insights for policymakers and other interested parties concerning the perception of RPTs in Egypt. Originality/value: The reported different findings of this study assure the intermediary role of the context and the local culture in the relationship between RPTs and firm value, in contrast to the negative view that is mostly reported in the literature. [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 Engineering Sciences is the property of Faculty of Engineering - Assiut University 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.)

Background: In Egypt, there is no legislation for deceased donor transplant; therefore, programs provide living donation only. One possible barrier against living liver donation may be the attitude of the health-care professional. This study aimed to (1) assess the level of knowledge and attitude toward liver donation and transplantation among health-care professional in an University Hospital in Upper Egypt and (2) analyze the variables that affect such an attitude. Materials and Methods: This was a crosssectional survey study with 300 health-care professionals. Results: The mean (standard deviation) age was 27.4 (5.3) years. Two hundred (66.7%) were females, and 257 (85.7%) were Muslims. A total of 222 (74%) were residents in University Hospitals. Of the sample, 104 (34.7%) would donate a living liver part, 122 (40.7%) discussed the matter of organ donation and transplantation with their family, and 134 (44.7%) did not discuss this issue with their family. About 40% knew the attitude of their religion toward organ donation. Most (94.7%) health professionals were <40 years and did not know the attitude of their religion toward this issue. Single persons had more correct information regarding living organ donation and transplantation. More Muslims know the attitude of their religion toward living organ donation and transplantation. Conclusions: Independent predictors of accepting living liver donation are being younger, knowledge of religion attitude, and media coverage satisfaction (P = 0.006, odd ratio [OR] = 0.2; P = 0.000, OR = 0.39; and P = 0.016; OR = 0.38). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out to determine the clinical course and epidemiological pattern of intestinal nematodes in dogs in Upper Egypt, and their impact on various hematological and biochemical parameters. A total number of 120 dogs (Age =1 month to 3 year), both sex and of different breed's size (small and large) were included in the present study. Parasitological, clinical, hemato-biochemical and epidemiological examinations were conducted. Microscopic analysis of fecal samples (n=120) revealed three types of intestinal nematodes: Toxocara canis (n= 28), Toxascaris leonina (n =5), Ancylostoma caninum (n = 4) and mixed infection of Toxocara canis and Dipylidium caninum (n =2) with an overall infection rate 32.5% (39/120). Toxocara canis was predominate type of nematodal parasite infection in the studied population (23.3%). Puppies (0-<3 months) were greatly affected with intestinal nematodes (54.8%), in particularly Toxocara canis (45.2%). Infected puppies showed off food, pale mucous membrane diarrhea abdominal bloating with potbellied appearance and vomiting. Other group of examined animals (n= 54) showed no clinical signs (asymptomatic) however a portion of this group (25.9%) was infected suggesting that absence of clinical symptoms was not an evidence of the absence of infection. Sex and breed showed non-significant differences (P>0.05) on infection rate of intestinal nematodes but season had high impact on nematodal infection The infection rate showed significant (P<0.05) increasing in winter (42.3%) and autumn (43.8%) with a maximum infection rate reported in December (60%) and January (56.5%). Hematological data generated from 35 blood samples of infected and 40 samples of healthy dog populations showed significant decrease (P>0.05) in erythrocytic parameters (RBCs, Hb, PCV) and platelets count in infected group, whereas group differences for TWBCs, neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils and basophils were non-significant high. Biochemical data generated revealed significant decrease (P>0.01) in the value of serum total protein in infected group. Liver enzymes showed significant increase (P>0.01) in serum AST, ALT and ALP in infected group compared with healthy one. In conclusion, intestinal nematode in dogs was common in Upper Egypt with infection rate of 32.5% and Toxocara canis was the most common nematode infection (23.3%). They have significant effects on hematological and biochemical parameters suggesting their importance as a health problem in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A febrile seizure (FS) is the most common convulsive disorder in children. Activation of cytokine network is involved in FS pathogenesis. Adiponectin, leptin and IL-6 are the major adipocytokines secreted by fat cells. To date, only a few studies concerned the association of adipocytokines with febrile seizures. In this study, we tried to investigate serum and CSF levels of adiponectin, leptin, and interleukin-6 (IL-6); as adipocytokines, for the first time in Egyptian children with febrile seizures. Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study included one hundred patients with febrile seizure, and matched with age, gender, 100 children with febrile illness without seizures (febrile control, FC) and 100 healthy control group (HC). Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of adiponectin, leptin, and (IL-6) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Results: Serum adiponectin was significantly higher in children with FS (16.8 ± 3.7 ug/ml) and the FC group (18.3 ± 4.3 ug/ml) compared to the HC group (9.5 ± 2.2 ug/ml); P < 0.05, respectively. Serum leptin was significantly lower in children with FS (0.9 ± 0.3 ng/ml) compared to both the FC group (4.7 ± 1.2 ng/ml) and the HC group (1.8 ± 0.4 ng/ml); P < 0.01, respectively. Children with FS had significantly higher serum IL-6 levels (43.7 ± 11.7 ng/ml) than the FC group (21.9 ± 4.5 ng/ml) and the HC group (6.5 ± 1.8 ng/ml); P < 0.01, respectively. Patients with simple febrile seizures (SFS) had serum and CSF adiponectin levels similar to those with complex febrile seizures (CFS); (P > 0.05). Serum and CSF leptin levels were significantly lower in patients with CFS compared to the SFS group (P < 0.05). Serum and CSF IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients with CFS compared to the SFS group (P < 0.01). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the high serum IL-6 levels was the most significant risk factor associated with febrile seizures among studied children (OR: 6.2; 95 % CI: 3.58 -10.57; P = 0.0001). Conclusion: Our data brought a novel observation that some adipocytokines like leptin and IL-6 could be, at least in part, an aetiopathogenetic factor in the manifestation of febrile seizures in susceptible Egyptian children. Moreover, we observed a significant association between high CSF IL-6 levels and susceptibility to complex febrile seizures as did the low CSF leptin levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Febrile seizures are the most common form of childhood seizures. Among pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-6 is the key acute-phase cytokine. To date, only a few studies concerned the association of interleukin-6 gene polymorphisms with febrile seizures.In this study, we aimed to investigate 3 cytokine singlenucleotide polymorphisms situated at positions -174 (G/C), -572 (G/C), and -597 (G/A) in the promoter region of the interleukin-6 gene for the first time in Egyptian children with febrile seizures. Methods: This was a case–control study included 100 patients with febrile seizure, and matched with age, gender, ethnicity 100 healthy control subjects. Interleukin-6 -174 (G/C), −572 (G/C), and −597 (G/A) polymorphisms were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), while the serum IL6 levels were measured by ELISA method. Results: Compared to the controls subjects, the frequency of the −174 GG and −597 GG IL6 genotypes were observed to be increased in children with febrile seizures (OR: 4.17; 95 % CI: 1.86-9.49; P <0.01 and OR: 1.96; 95 % CI: 1.06-3.63;P <0.05, respectively). We found a significant positive association between the −597 GG genotype and susceptibility to complex febrile seizures as did the G allele at the same position (OR: 4.2; 95 % CI: 1.4-13.3 for the GG genotype; P <0.01) and (OR: 2.89; 95 % CI: 1.1-7.7 for the G allele; P <0.05 respectively). Our data revealed no association between IL6- genotypes and serum IL6 levels in patients with febrile seizures (P > 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, our data brought a novel observation that the presence of a G allele or GG genotype at the −174 and the GG genotype at the −597 positions of the promoter region of the interleukin-6 gene constitute risk factors for developing febrile seizures in Egyptian children. Moreover, we observed a significant positive association between the IL6 -597 GG genotype and susceptibility to complex febrile seizures as did the G allele at the same position. However, we found no association between IL6- genotypes and serum IL6 levels in patients with febrile seizures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The etiology of multiple sclerosis (MS) remains elusive with genetic susceptibility. Receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) upregulation is associated with diverse diseases with inflammatory and degenerative pathophysiology. Objective: This work studies the three common RAGE polymorphism in Egyptian MS patients. Methods: 50 Egyptian MS patients living in Delta were subjected for clinical and disability assessment by extended disability scale (EDSS) and then their -429 T/C, - 374 T/A & G82S allele's polymorphism were investigated. Results: Fifty MS served as patients group and a hundred healthy persons served as control group. The clinical results expressed in means are: age of onset was 29 years ±8.8, the duration 38.2 months ±42.8 and attacks frequency of 3.6±5.1 and EDSS score of 3.4±1.9. The C allele of -429 T/C was significantly higher in MS patients (P=0.049) with higher risk to develop MS. While the TT genotype of -429T/C was common in low disability score, the mutant genotypes TC+CC were significantly higher among high disability score. The other two studied two genotypes were insignificantly different. The haplotype CTG was identified to be associated with the significant risk of MS (P=0.049). Conclusion: There is a possible role for RAGE polymorphism for MS susceptibility and severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Crop water requirements are represented by the actual crop evapotranspiration. Estimation of crop evapotranspiration (ETc ) and crop coefficient using remote-sensing data is essential for planning the irrigation water use in arid and semiarid regions. This study focuses on estimating the crop coefficient (Kc ) and crop evapotranspiration (ETc ) using SPOT-4 satellite data integrated with the meteorological data and FAO-56 approach. Reference evapotranspiration (ETo ) were estimated using FAO Penman-Monteith and tabled single crop coefficient values were adjusted to real values. SPOT-4 images geometrically and radio metrically corrected were used to drive the vegetation indices (NDVI and SAVI). Multi linear regression analysis was applied to develop the crop coefficient (Kc ) prediction equations for the different growth stages from vegetation indices. The results showed R 2 were 0.82, 0.90 and 0.97 as well as adjusted R 2 were 0.80, 0.86 and 0.96 for developing, mid-season and late-season growth stage respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of blunt suture needles for episiotomy repair at uncomplicated vaginal deliveries in reducing glove perforation rate. Methods: This was a prospective randomized controlled trial wherein 300 nulliparous women with uncomplicated vaginal deliveries were randomized to episiotomy repair with either blunt or sharp suture needles. Patient demographics and clinical variables were collected. Postoperatively, the surgeons were surveyed regarding ease of using the needle, and glove perforation was determined by three tests: air insufflation, water filling and water load. Results: A total of 41 perforations occurred in the 39 episiotomy repairs with glove perforations (13%). There was a significantly higher number of glove perforations using the sharp suture needles (28/150; 18.7%) than with the blunt suture needles (11/150; 7.3%) ( P = 0.005). Glove perforation of the non-dominant hand occurred in 90% of the cases. Using a blunt suture needle took significantly more time ( P < 0.001) to complete the repair than using a sharp needle. Surgeons reported that blunt needles were more difficult to use than sharp needles ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: Blunt suture needles for episiotomy repair were shown to have a significantly lower instance of glove perforation but required more time and are perceived to be more difficult to complete the repair as compared to sharp needles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of the current work is to generate statistical empirical rice yield estimation models under the local conditions of the Egyptian Nile delta. The methodology is based on regressing measured yield with satellite derived spectral information or leaf area index (LAI). LAI field measurements and spectral information from SPOT data collected during two crop seasons are examined against measured yield to generate the yield models. Near-infrared and red bands, six vegetation indices and LAI of 100 points are used as the main inputs for the modeling process while 20 points of the same are used for validation process. Nine models are generated and tested against the observed yield. Comparing the generated models show relatively higher superiority of (LAI-yield) and (infrared-yield) models over the rest of the models with (0.061) and (0.090) as a standard error of estimate and (0.945) and (0.883) as coefficient of determinations between modeled and observed yield. The models are applicable a month before harvest for similar regions with same conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The objectives of this study are to produce a physiographic soil map with correlated attributes to be a base for extra modifiers within the land information system. This integrated data will serve the purposes of land use planning, precision farming practices and to be applied in other areas using the extrapolation approach. The Satellite data of EgyptSat-1 were projected on an area of Middle Egypt that represents unique physiographic features over portions of Beni Suef, El Fayoum, Helwan, and October Provinces. The spectral signatures of the land patterns were delineated by the visual interpretation using the physiographic approach, while soil taxa were categorized according to the key of Soil Taxonomy (), resulting in two landscape categories. The first category includes older and developed parent materials, covering the following units: (a) Pediplains of residual soils over limestone parent rock, having soils of Lithic Haplocalcids, loamy skeletal. (b) Terraced old alluvial plains represent the formerly deposited alluvium that preceded the recent one of the River Nile alluvium. They includes soils of Typic Calcigypsids, loamy skeletal and old alluvial plain but are currently managed under cultivation. The soils are dominated by Typic Haplocalcids, loamy skeletal. (c) Wadis that were shaped by the paleodrainage erosion, are currently subjected to the seasonal flush flooding and are sparsely vegetated including soils of Typic Torrifluvents, lamy skeletal (calcareous); Typic Torriorthents, sandy skeletal, and Typic Torriorthents, sandy. (d) Aeolian plain “partly cultivated” includes soils of Typic Torripsamments (calcareous). The second category is a recent River Nile alluvium that formed the following units: (a) Terraced recent alluvial plain “cultivated” includes soils of Entic Calcitorrerts, fine and Typic Haplotorrerts fine. (b) Recent flat alluvial plain includes soils of Typic Haplotorrerts, fine. (c) Meandering belt is aligning the River Nile course with courser sediments comparing to the recent alluvial plains. This belt is sub divided as levees that have soils of Typic Torriorthents, fine lomy; point bars with soils of Typic Torriorthents, coarse lomy; river banks with soils of Typic Torriorthents, coarse lomy; bow bars with Typic Torriorthents, sandy and Typic Torriorthents, coarse loamy and meander scars with soils of Typic Torriorthents, sandy. All these taxonomic classes are hyperthermic, being developed under the hyperthermic temperature regime within an aridic moisture regime. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A research project was conducted as collaboration between the National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences (NARSS) in Egypt and the Institute of Remote Sensing Applications (IRSA), Chinese Academy of Sciences. The objective of this study is to generate normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI)–leaf area index (LAI) statistical inversion models for three rice varieties planted in Egypt (Giza-178, Sakha-102, and Sakha-104) using the data of two rice growing seasons. Field observations were carried out to collect LAI field measurements during 2008 and 2009 rice seasons. The SPOT4 satellite data acquired in rice season of 2008 and 2009 conjunction with field observations dates were used to calculate the vegetation indices values. Statistical analyses were performed to confirm the assumptions of inversion modeling for plant variables and to get reliable models that fit the inversion relationship between LAI and NDVI. The inversion process resulted in three NDVI–LAI models adequate to predict LAI with 95% confidence for the three different rice varieties. The accuracy of the generated models ranged between 50% in the case of Sakha-104 and 82% in the case of Giza-178. LAI maps were produced from NDVI imageries based on the generated models. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Simple Summary: Pathogenic fungi cause yield and quality losses and threaten food security. In this study, 198 samples of wheat grains, representing 20 Egyptian wheat cultivars, were collected from 25 wheat-growing governorates across Egypt, and screened for their seed-borne fungi. Twenty genera and 44 species of seed-borne fungi were identified, and their biodiversity indicators and evolutionary relationships were studied based upon similarities in their genetic characteristics. The most frequent fungi were Alternaria alternata and Cladosporium spp., while Tilletia tritici and Ustilago tritici were the most common smut fungi. The highest fungal diversity was recorded for Sinai governorate, while the greatest species richness was recorded in Qena and Sohag governorates. Correlations of the detected fungi with weather variables (temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, wind speed, or solar radiation) were investigated. Our results indicated that the relative humidity was the most influential weather variable, followed by temperature, solar radiation, wind speed, and precipitation, respectively. Despite this study being conducted on the wheat-growing areas in Egypt, our findings are useful for other wheat-growing countries that share the same climatic conditions. The correlation between a given fungus and the climatic variables can be useful in other ecosystems. Surveillance investigations for pathogenic and toxigenic fungi are important to refine our understanding of their epidemiology and help in predicting their outbreaks. During 2019, 198 samples of wheat grains were collected from 25 wheat-growing governorates in Egypt to detect and identify seed-borne mycoflora in vitro. Forty-four fungal species belonging to 20 genera were identified. Molecular data for these fungi were analyzed to construct a phylogenetic tree. Occurrence and biodiversity indicators were calculated. Two prevalent pathogens (average incidence > 40%) were Alternaria alternata and Cladosporium spp. Ustilago tritici was present in only seven of the 25 governorates, and less abundant than Tilletia tritici, the causal agent of stinking smut. Sinai governorate recorded the greatest species diversity, while the greatest species richness was in Qena and Sohag governorates. Canonical correspondence analysis of data for 20 fungal genera with temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, wind speed or solar radiation revealed that relative humidity was the most influential weather variable. It showed that occurrence and distribution of the 20 genera corresponded well with three out of four Egyptian climatic regions: Mediterranean, semi-arid, and arid. Knowing pathogen occurrence and distribution in Egypt is the first step to developing future disease management strategies to limit yield losses and improve food security. Despite this study being conducted on the wheat-growing areas in Egypt, our findings are useful for other wheat-growing countries that share the same climatic conditions. The correlation between a given fungus and the climatic variables can be useful in other ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this article is to discover whether there is a significant change in the Egyptian family size in the United States in comparison with that in Egypt and to compare the family size of the present adult generation with that of their parents and grandparents irrespective of location. According to the author, this is the first demographic study on Egyptian immigrants in the United States, and is exploratory in nature. Although many studies have been done by Egyptian and foreign demographers on the Egyptian family in Egypt, none dealt with Egyptian families in the United States. A difference was found to exist between the groups based on educational level completed by the husband and the wife. Another difference was found between the planned family sizes of the respondent, the family he comes from, and the family his father comes from. This reflects the changes in the Egyptian family as a result of the industrialization trend and consequent urbanization in Egypt and the contact with a western culture in the United States.

Rabbits are increasingly farmed in Egypt for meat. They are, however, known reservoirs of infectious pathogens. Currently, no information is available on the genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium spp. in rabbits in Egypt. To understand the prevalence and genetic identity of Cryptosporidium spp. in these animals, 235 fecal samples were collected from rabbits of different ages on nine farms in El-Dakahlia, El-Gharbia, and Damietta Provinces, Egypt during the period from July 2015 to April 2016. PCR-RFLP analysis of the small subunit rRNA gene was used to detect and genotype Cryptosporidium spp. The overall detection rate was 11.9% (28/235). All 28 samples were identified as Cryptosporidium cuniculus. The 16 samples successfully subtyped by the sequence analysis of the partial 60 kDa glycoprotein gene belonged to two subtypes, VbA19 (n = 1) and VbA33 (n = 15). As C. cuniculus is increasingly recognized as a cause of human cryptosporidiosis, Cryptosporidium spp. in rabbits from Egypt have zoonotic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

P031 - Physician survey in the treatment of HR+/HER2 - metastatic breast cancer in Egypt. [Extracted from the article]

Machine learning classifiers have been widely used for crop mapping; however, employing numerous features can reduce classifier accuracy. Feature selection is a widely recognized technique that addresses the issue of high dimensionality by choosing the most relevant subset of features with the highest degree of relevance and practicality. Therefore, the optimal combination of feature selection methods and classifiers for high-precision crop mapping remains an open problem. In this study, we introduce a novel hybrid feature selection approach to obtain the optimal subset of features for effective crop mapping. Initially, spectro-temporal remote sensing features from the dataset were ranked using two distinct feature selection techniques: Mutual Information (MI) and ReliefF filter. The most relevant features from each filter-based approach were combined into a union subset. Subsequently, the Gray Wolf Optimization (GWO), a metaheuristic optimization technique, was applied to enhance the feature set generated in the initial step. In the final stage, a random forest classifier leveraged the optimized feature subset for accurate crop type prediction. The effectiveness of the proposed approach was evaluated in Behiera governorate, Egypt. Comparative analysis against existing crop mapping methods demonstrated the superior performance of the proposed approach, achieving an accuracy rate of 82%. Furthermore, this approach showcased a significant reduction in the feature count, streamlining the set from 308 down to only 26 features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multispectral remote sensing data and digital elevation models were used to examine the spatial and temporal evolution of the New Lakes of Sahara in southern Egypt. These lakes appeared in September 1998, when water spilled northwestward toward the Tushka depression due to an unusual water rise in Lake Nasser induced by high precipitation in the Ethiopian Highlands. Five lakes were formed in local depressions underlain by an impermeable Paleocene shale and chalk formation. The lakes developed through three stages. (1) A rise stage occurred from September 1998 to August 2001; the area covered by the lakes reached ∼1586 km². In this stage the rate of water supply far exceeded the rate of water loss through evaporation. This stage was characterized by an early phase (August 1998-August 1999) when the area covered by the lakes increased by ∼75 km²/month. This was followed by a late phase (August 1999-August 2001), in which area increase averaged ∼28 km²/month. (2) A steady-state stage occurred from August 2001 to August 2003, during which the area covered by the lakes remained relatively unchanged and water lost through evaporation was continuously replaced by water supply from Lake Nasser. (3) A demise stage occurred from August 2003 to April 2007, during which water supply from Lake Nasser stopped completely and water was continuously evaporating. The area covered by the lakes decreased to ∼800 km² with an average loss of ∼17 km²/month. If this trend continues, the New Lakes of Sahara will disappear completely by March 2011. The spatial distribution of the New Lakes of Sahara is strongly controlled by morphologically defined east-, north-, northeast-, and northwest-trending faults. The water recharge of the Nubian aquifer by the New Lakes of Sahara is insignificant; much of the lakes' area is above an impermeable formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global sea-level rise during the Early Turonian-Late Cenomanian Bonarelli event resulted in oceanic anoxia and deposition of organic-rich source rocks across Northern Africa, such as the Late Cretaceous Abu Roash-F carbonates. Here, using thin sections, SEM, XRF, standard core analysis, and Rock-Eval pyrolysis data, we examine the petrographic and geochemical properties of the Abu Roash-F (AR-F) carbonate source rocks. These deep marine carbonates consist of dominantly planktonic foraminifera and calcispheres and are classified as wackestone. Extensive micritization, calcite cementation, and ferroan dolomite cement replacement (filling the bioclastic tests and chambers) are identified as the principal diagenetic factors. Core measurements indicate that these carbonates have very low porosity below 3% and horizontal permeability of 0.003 mD (3x10-18 m2), which is also supported by the observed isolated nanopores in SEM. The elemental concentration from the XRF data confirms a highly reducing depositional environment that facilitated the organic richness during the Early Turonian Oceanic Anoxia Event 2 (OAE2). The studied carbonate interval consists of Type-II kerogen in the oil window with a Tmax of about 440 °C and up to 4.2 wt.% TOC indicating 'fair' to 'excellent' organic richness and a very high probability of active oil generation and expulsion. Following the wireline logs and core data, the self-sourcing unconventional reservoir potential of the AR-F carbonates has been emphasized. • AR-F is dominantly composed of planktonic foraminifera deposited in a marine environment during OAE2. • XRF data indicates a reducing depositional environment that facilitated the organic richness. • Carbonates exhibit poor porosity and permeability due to extensive micritization. • AR-F is organic-rich, composed of type-II kerogen in the oil generation window. • The studied interval is a potential self-sourcing unconventional reservoir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Little is known of the occurrence and age patterns of species/genotypes and subtypes of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis in calves in Egypt. In this study, 248 fecal specimens were collected from dairy calves aged 1 day to 6 months on eight farms in three provinces during March 2015 to April 2016. Cryptosporidium spp. were detected and genotyped by using PCR-RFLP analysis of the small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene, while G. duodenalis was detected and genotyped by using PCR and sequence analyses of the triose phosphate isomerase (tpi), glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and β-giardin (bg) genes. The overall infection rates of Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis were 9.7 and 13.3%, respectively. The highest Cryptosporidium infection rate (26.7%) was in calves of age ≤ 1 month while the highest G. duodenalis infection rate (44.4%) was in calves of 2 months. Three Cryptosporidium spp. were identified, including C. parvum (n = 16), C. bovis (n = 5) and C. ryanae (n = 3), with the former being almost exclusively found in calves of ≤3 months of age and the latter two being only found in calves of over 3 months. Subtyping of C. parvum by PCR-sequence analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein gene identified subtypes IIaA15G1R1 (n = 15) and IIaA15G2R1 (n = 1). The G. duodenalis identified included both assemblages E (n = 32) and A (n = 1), with the latter belonging to the anthroponotic subtype A2. These data provide new insights into the genetic diversity and age patterns of Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis in calves in Egypt. Highlights • 248 fecal specimens from dairy calves in three provinces, Egypt were analyzed • Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis were detected in 9.7 and 13.3% of specimens, respectively • C. parvum, C. bovis, C. ryanae , and G. duodenalis assemblages E and A were identified • C. parvum was mostly found in calves of ≤3 months while C. bovis and C. ryanae were only found in calves of >3 months • IIaA15G1R1 was the dominant C. parvum subtype [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius) or dromedary is an economically important domestic animal. However, infectious diseases, including those caused by vector-borne hemopathogens, frequently compromise the health and production of camels. In this study, we examined infections caused by Babesia , Theileria , Trypanosoma , and Anaplasma species in camels in Egypt. We analyzed blood DNA samples from 148 camels reared in six Egyptian governorates (Giza, Asyut, Sohag, Qena, Luxor, and the Red Sea) using pathogen-specific Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assays. Our results indicated that 29 (19.6%), 22 (14.9%), 1 (0.7%), 2 (1.4%), 1 (0.7%), 2 (1.4%), and 28 (18.9%) of the surveyed animals were infected with Babesia bovis , B. bigemina , Babesia sp. Mymensingh, Theileria sp. Yokoyama, Theileria equi , Trypanosoma evansi , and Anaplasma marginale , respectively. We found that a total of 68 (45.9%) animals were infected with at least one of the detected hemopathogens. Sequencing analyses of PCR amplicons confirmed our diagnostic results. This study is the first to report Theileria sp. Yokoyama and Babesia sp. Mymensingh in Egypt. This is also the first report of infection with these two species in one-humped camel. In conclusion, this study found that camels in Egypt are infected with several vector-borne hemopathogens, including novel parasite species. [Display omitted] • We surveyed camels in six Egyptian governorates for hemopathogens using PCR assays • We detected several species of Babesia , Theileria , Trypanosoma , and Anaplasma • We report Babesia sp. Mymensingh in dromedary and in Egypt for the first time • We report Theileria sp. Yokoyama in dromedary and in Egypt for the first time [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: According to reports, the majority of domesticated species exhibited uterine torsion. It was occasionally noted as a cause of dystocia in buffaloes. The uterus might twist more frequently late in pregnancy because of certain animal traits. The current research monitored the clinical findings and laboratory assays associated with uterine torsion cases in pregnant buffalo-cows through comparing between normal labored buffalo-cows (Norm-Lab gr ; n = 20), mechanically corrected uterine torsed animals without medicament interference (UtrTors gr ; n = 160), and mechanically corrected uterine torsed animals with medicament interference (UtrTors-Med gr ; n = 40) through focusing on placental characterization, calves body weight, milk constituents and milk somatic cell count (SCC) in normal labored buffaloes and uterine torsed ones. Through clinical and laboratory investigations of these buffaloes (N = 220) had been conducted 3 times; 7 h pre-calving and post calving (Post uterine correction) i.e. 48 and 96 h. Uterine torsion prevalence parameters, placental characterization, calves body weight, milk constituents and milk somatic cell counts were evaluated in normal labored buffaloes and uterine torsed ones., Results and Conclusions: The study concluded pre-calving remarkable variations in clinical findings, leukogram picture, calf birth weight and some placental characterization parameters between Norm-Lab gr and each of UtrTors gr and UtrTors-Med gr whereas these variations disappeared post-partum as a result to either only mechanical correction or mechanical correction plus medicaments interference. No pre-or post-calving significant changes between UtrTors gr and UtrTors-Med gr except for the abnormal clinical findings were more representative in UtrTors-Med gr than those in UtrTors gr particularly pre-calving. The applied pre-calving therapeutic regimen including dexamethasone-prostaglandin-receptal combination had a powerful potential efficacy that induced vaginal delivery of calves in UtrTors-Med gr as well as prepartum mechanical correction of torsed uterus approved higher efficacy in UtrTors gr . The applied prepartum mechanical correction of torsed uterus and/or pre-calving therapeutic regimen as well as subsequent post-calving, post uterine correction applied medicament treatment accelerated rapid recovery of affected buffalo-cows through achieving rapid restoring of their physiological parameters. Buffalo-cow's milk composition, milk pH and milk SCC were not affected whereas no significant variations were reported between Norm-Lab gr , UtrTors gr and UtrTors-Med gr ., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a hypervascular tumor characterized by neovascularization. The objective of the current study was to determine circulating proangiogenic [vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α)] and antiangiogenic [IL-4, IL-12, interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP-10), and angiostatin] factors in Egyptian patients with different stages of HCC. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the concentrations of these mediators in plasma of 135 HCC patients (57 Child-Pugh A, 24 Child-Pugh B, and 54 Child-Pugh C stage) and 50 healthy subjects. Results showed a significant increase in plasma levels of VEGF (P < 0.001), PDGF (P < 0.001), TNF-α (P < 0.01), angiostatin (P < 0.01), and IP-10 (P < 0.001) and a significant reduction in IL-12 (P < 0.001) in HCC patients in relation to normal controls. Classifying HCC patients based on their Child-Pugh's score revealed that the maximum production of proangiogenic mediators (VEGF and TNF-α) was present in HCC patients with Child-Pugh C score which coincides with maximum reduction in antiangiogenic mediators (IL-4, IL-12, and angiostatin). Taken together, these results indicated that the determination of these factors in different Child-Pugh's scores of HCC might be an important guide in clinical decision making regarding therapy and outcome., (© 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

The erythrocytic glutathione reductase activity was studied among 40 normal and G 6 PD-deficient males without or with intestinal parasitic infection. The results showed that the incidence of vitamin B2 deficiency was significantly higher (chi 2 P less than 0.05) among G 6 PD deficient subjects compared to corresponding incidence obtained with normal. Intestinal parasitism led to deterioration of the B2-status among both the normals and the subjects with G 6 PD deficiency.