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Background: In line with the World Health Organization's (WHO) campaign to improve community dermatology services, research on the spectrum of pediatric skin diseases is crucial for both patients and policymakers. Identifying the spectrum of pediatric skin conditions among children visiting the Khartoum Dermatological Hospital's outpatient dermatology clinic was the goal of this study. Methods: Over six months, a prospective cross-sectional study including children (0-18 years old) was undertaken. Once the pertinent medical history and examinations were gathered, dermatologists made the diagnosis. Skin conditions were divided into several categories. The analysis of the data was done with the SPSS version 23. Results: A total of 320 children, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.1:1, were enrolled. Ten categories with 38 different skin diseases were established after diagnosis. Infections in 152 (47.5%), eczematous disorders in 89 (27.8%), and appendageal disorders in 19 (5.93%) children were the most prevalent conditions by group. Impetigo (37.5%), scabies (10.9%), and seborrheic dermatitis (10.6%) were the most frequently seen diseases. These illnesses most commonly afflicted the areas of the limbs (30%), face (20%), and scalp (18.7%). Papules in 148 (46%) and scales in 74 (23%) children were the most prevalent primary and secondary efflorescence, respectively. A clinical diagnosis was made in the majority (266 [83.1%]) of the cases. Conclusion: The most frequently observed group was infection. This demonstrates how crucial it is to maintain good personal and family hygiene, minimize overcrowded spaces, and promoting public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses physical and geochemical characteristics of crude oil samples representing the Cretaceous and Palaeogene reservoir sequence of the Melut Basin, southern Sudan to gain information about source rock properties, including organic matter characters, depositional environment and thermal maturity. The overall results show that the Melut Basin's oils have API values between 14.6° and 33.3° and indicate that most of oils are not biodegraded; except one heavy oil sample with low API gravity of 14.6°, which is likely biodegraded. The studied oils were generated from clay‐rich source rocks, containing a blend of organic matter derived primarily from a mixed organic matter of aquatic and terrestrial origin and deposited in a lacustrine setting under suboxic to relatively oxic conditions as demonstrated by their biomarker and carbon isotopic compositions (δ13C). The biomarker maturity indicators show that most of the Melut Basin's oils were generated in the main stage of oil generation, exhibiting a range of peak‐mature to late‐mature. The biomarker environmental indicators reveal that the shale source rocks of the Al‐Gayger and Galhak formations contributed to these oil samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is a specialized ward where critically ill patients are admitted to provide intensive health care Inappropriate antimicrobial therapy (AMT) and high mortality rates were documented in the ICU. The influence of irrational use of empiric antibiotics on clinical outcomes in ICU patients is not well studied in Sudan.Aim: This study aims to determine the rational use of antibiotics and its impact on clinical outcomes among ICU patients.Methods: Using data collection form, a retrospective longitudinal study was conducted among ICU patients at Omdurman Military Hospital, Khartoum State. Patients admitted from January 2019 to December 2019 were included in the study. Patients who stayed in ICU < 48 hr were excluded. Appropriateness of AMT is assessed using culture sensitivity test (CST) and the American Society of Infectious Diseases (IDSA) guideline.Results: Among 102 patients, 54.9% male, one-third of patients developed nosocomial infections, 80.4% received empiric therapy with broad-spectrum antibiotics. The CST is done in 19%, and 43% patients are prescribed inappropriate AMT. Inappropriate AMT is associated with recurrent infections 38.4% (p=0.028) and high mortality 33.8% (p=0.014). Overall mortality rate 63.7% ICU patients. Elevated mortality in nosocomial 57.8%, decreased with inappropriate AMT in 21.6% patients. Significantly higher mortality rates 90.7% among uncontrolled infections (p< 0.001), 80.6% nosocomial infections (p=0.001), and 76.7% renal compromised (p=0.002).Conclusion: Empirical AMT reduces the frequency of nosocomial infections, which has an impact on mortality. Inappropriate AMT is significantly associated with uncontrolled infections and lower mortality. Implementing a restrictive infectious control system and effective stewardship programs in hospital ICU wards is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between the Prothrombin G20210A mutation and recurrent pregnancy loss is well documented in the literature among different populations. A descriptive study was conducted in Omdurman Maternity Hospital, Sudan, to find the prevalence of the Prothrombin G20210A mutation among Sudanese women with recurrent pregnancy loss. Analysis of the Prothrombin G20210A mutation was performed using PCR-RFLP for 67 enrolled women with recurrent pregnancy loss of two times or more. Data analysis was performed using SPSS. The prothrombin G20210A mutation was present in 4 (6%) out of the total 67 enrolled cases; 3 (4.5%) had the GA genotype (hetrozygous), while one had the (1.5%) AA genotype. The study revealed that the Prothrombin G20210A mutation is less prevalent among Sudanese women with recurrent pregnancy loss compared to other Arab nations. A large case-control study is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field study was conducted in the Agronomic Research Area, Faculty of Agriculture, Gomal University, D.I. Khan to observe the effect of different fertilizer doses on the yield, biomass and the response of different cultivars of sweet sorghum, during the Kharif season (2015-16). The study was carried out using a split-plot layout and a randomized complete block design (RCBD). The cultivars of sweet sorghum were chosen for the main plots, while fertilizer doses were distributed in the sub-plots. Fourteen parameters were monitored throughout the study. According to the data that was analyzed, the research's variables had a substantial impact on leaf area index (LAI), green fodder yield (t ha), plant height (cm), net photosynthesis rate (u mole m-2 sec-1), crop growth rate (g cm2 day1), (%), brix (%), bagasse (%), purity (%), reducing sugars and pol (%). Though, there was not a noticeable impact on the amount of chlorophyll (u g cm3) or the number of leaves on the plant. The most significant interaction between the Sudan grass hybrid and fertilizer increased the crop growth rate (16.43 g day), leaf area index (5.01), net photosynthesis rate (66.07 mole m2 sec''), green fodder yield (109.99 t ha''), reducing sugars% (2.47), brix% (13.50), and pol% (8.11). Based on the research results, it has been found that Sudan grass hybrids fertilizer using NPK @ (150:120:100 kg ha'') attained better green fodder production while the sugar and ethanol generating parameters performed best with NPK @ 100:80:60: kg ha''. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study compared the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among children with a cleft lip with or without a cleft palate (CL±P) and a group of their peers. The reliability of the Arabic version of the Child Oral Health Impact Profile Questionnaire (COHIP) was also assessed. Design: A cross-sectional study. Settings: Cleft clinic in a private dental college in Omdurman City, Sudan. Patients: In all, 75 children (mean age 11.3 ± 2.5 years) with a history of CL±P and a group of 150 school children without CL±P (mean age 11.4 ± 2.6 years). Main Outcome Measures: Overall and subscale scores on the Arabic version of the COHIP. Results: Test–retest reliability of COHIP in Arabic was high with an interclass correlation coefficient >0.8. Cronbach α value internal consistency was 0.8 for the total scale and between 0.7 and 0.8 for the subscales. The COHIP score was 89.41 ± 19.97 in children with CL±P and 122.82 ± 9.45 for the control group. Children with CL±P had significantly lower scores on the overall and all subscales when compared to children without CL±P (P ≤.001). Among the children with CL±P, there were no statistically significant differences on the COHIP based on age and/or gender (P ≥.05). Conclusions: Children with CL±P had a relatively high OHRQoL, which was lower than that of their peers without CL±P in both the overall scale and all subscales. Gender and age differences had no significant impact on the OHRQoL. The COHIP Arabic version showed appropriate reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives The COVID-19 pandemic has a negative impact on the blood donation process, and the whole world nowadays is struggling to maintain a sufficient safe blood supply. The aim of this study was to identify the reasons for lapsing from blood donation during the COVID-19 pandemic among the Sudanese blood donors, and also to determine the motives for returning to blood donation. Materials and methods This was a cross-sectional study. Our population was all lapsing Sudanese blood donors who received an invitation from the national central laboratory and did not respond. We used an interviewing questionnaire, and interviews were done through phone calls. Result 674 blood donors had participated in our study. About 94-6% of the participants were males, and the majority was younger than 36 years. The most common reason for lapsing from blood donation was staying at home to avoid the COVID-19 infection (60-6%). About 63-4% of the participants said that they would return to donate if there were regular invitations. And 52-4% of our participants said they would return if the COVID-19 pandemic was controlled. The altruistic factor was the most common motivation for first time donation. Conclusion We have to find strategies to overcome this reduction in the blood donors. We have to raise the awareness of people about the importance of maintaining adequate blood supply; also we have to provide mobile donation sites and to send regular invitations to the donors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is ubiquitous among humans and one of the best-studied examples of an intimate association between bacteria and humans. Phylogeny and Phylogeography of H. pylori strains are known to mirror human migration patterns and reflect significant demographic events in human prehistory. In this study, we analyzed the molecular evolution of H. pylori strains detected from different tribes and regions of Sudan using 16S rRNA gene and the phylogenetic approach. Materials and methods. A total of 75 gastric biopsies were taken from patients who had been referred for endoscopy from different regions of Sudan. The DNA extraction was performed by using the guanidine chloride method. Two sets of primers (universal and specific for H. pylori) were used to amplify the 16S ribosomal gene. Sanger sequencing was applied, and the resulted sequences were matched with the sequences of the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) nucleotide database. The evolutionary aspects were analyzed using MEGA7 software. Results. Molecular detection of H. pylori has shown that 28 (37.33%) of the patients were positive for H. pylori and no significant differences were found in sociodemographic characteristics, endoscopy series, and H. pylori infection. Nucleotide variations were observed at five nucleotide positions (positions 219, 305, 578, 741, and 763–764), and one insertion mutation (750_InsC_751) was present in sixty-seven percent (7/12) of our strains. These six mutations were detected in regions of the 16S rRNA not closely associated with either tetracycline or tRNA binding sites; 66.67% of them were located in the central domain of 16S rRNA. The phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA sequences identified two lineages of H. pylori strains detected from different regions in Sudan. The presence of Sudanese H. pylori strains resembling Hungarian H. pylori strains could reflect the migration of Hungarian people to Sudan or vice versa. Conclusion. This finding emphasizes the significance of studying the phylogeny of H. pylori strains as a discriminatory tool to mirror human migration patterns. In addition, the 16S rRNA gene amplification method was found useful for bacterial identification and phylogeny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is highly contagious with pandemic transmission, and is therefore associated with severe health problems and high public anxiety, with healthcare community speculation to be the most distressed because they are at the highest risk of infection. This study aimed to investigate the psychological impact on frontline medical staff in Khartoum state, Sudan, during the COVID-19 pandemic between January and March 2020. Materials and Methods: Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorders (GAD-7) scale, and the Revised Impact of Event Scale (IES-R) were used to assess depression, anxiety, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD) on the participants, respectively, through an online questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 24. Results: PHQ-9 depression scale showed that 285 (82%) staff members had some degree of depression, with mild depression being the most frequent, seen in 96 (24.2%), whereas, severe depression was found to be more common among the age group between 45 and 65 years and was associated with working in the emergency room (ER) (P = 0.03). The PTSD among our participants was assessed by the IES-R that showed that 116 (29.3%) had subclinical PTSD, 124 (31.3%) had mild PTSD symptoms, 98 (24.7%) had moderate PTSD symptoms, and 58 (14.6%) had severe PTSD symptoms. Also, a statistical association was seen between the IES-R mean score and the age group between 25 and 34 years (P < 0.0001), having a friend or family member infected with the disease (P < 0.0001), and having a history of contact with a positive case of COVID-19 (P < 0.0001). We used GAD-7 anxiety score that showed mild anxiety in 32 (23.2%) participants, moderate anxiety in 53 (13.4%), and severe anxiety 66 (16.7%). Conclusion: This study aimed to explore the psychological impact of COVID-19 pandemic on medical staff's perception and its determinants. Most of our participants were found to be suffering from anxiety and depression with combining personal variables and working conditions as predictors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Data on factors predicting axillary lymph node (ALN) metastasis among Sudanese patients with breast cancer are rare. Aim: The aim of this study is to provide baseline information of the clinical and pathological factors predicting ALN metastasis in patients who underwent modified radical mastectomy or breast conserving surgery at Wad-Madani Teaching Hospital, Sudan. Materials and Methods: We performed a prospective study to examine the correlation between ALN status and clinicopathological characteristics of 81 patients with breast cancer. Results: The median age at diagnosis was 47 years (range, 25–85 years). The median number of lymph nodes (LNs) retrieved was 14 (range 2–31). ALNs containing metastases were found in 52 patients (64.2%); more than half of them (n = 30) had three or more positive LNs. Factors associated with lower chance of developing LN metastasis were age more than 60 years, postmenopausal status, smaller tumor size, and tumor that were positive for estrogen receptor and/or progesterone receptor. The number of ALNs retrieved was the only factor which showed statistically significant association with ALNs metastases. Conclusions: Our finding reveals a high incidence of ALN metastasis among patients with breast cancer in Sudan, which is likely due to various factors such as young age at diagnosis and large tumor size as a result of late diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to determine antibiotic susceptibility patterns of ESBL- and non-ESBL bacteria isolated from pregnant women with UTI in antenatal wards in Khartoum State, Sudan. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted during April-July 2016 at different hospitals in Khartoum State. Mid-stream urine samples were obtained from 150 hospitalized pregnant women and cultured on CLED (Cystine Lactose Electrolyte Deficient) agar. Microorganisms were identified using standard microbiological procedures. Isolated Gram-negative bacteria were tested for antibiotic susceptibility and ESBL screening using modified Kirby-Bauer method and Double Disc Synergy Test (DDST) respectively. Results: Urine culture revealed positive results in 33/150 (22%) and the most prevalent isolates were Gram negative bacteria (18/33, 54.5%). Among gram-negative bacteria, isolates of E. coli were the most prevalent accounting 66.6% (12/18) followed by K. pneumoniae (4/18, 22.2%) and K. oxytoca (2/18, 11.1%). ESBL was detected in 8/18 (44.4%) of the Gram-negative isolates. Of note, imipenem was the most susceptible antibiotic for ESBL-producer and non-ESBL producer Gram negative isolates, accounting 100% susceptibility for both bacterial groups. Overall susceptibility rates were also high for ciprofloxacin (13/18, 72.2%). In other hand, co-trimoxazole and amoxicillin showed high resistance pattern for ESBL-producer and non-ESBL producer isolates; 27.8%, 44.4% and 38.9%, 38.9% susceptibility rates of co-trimoxazole and amoxicillin for ESBL-producer and non-ESBL producer isolates, respectively. Conclusions: Imipenem remains the most powerful option for ESBL- and non-ESBL bacteria causing UTIs in pregnant women. However, due to tremendous increase of antibiotic-resistant, antibiotic-susceptibility testing is recommended as a routine investigation for admitted pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Double ring tests were conducted on the shrinking/swelling vertisols of the Gezira scheme in fallows and cotton fields, to analyze the influence of the infiltration on soil surface type. The well-defined of two phased cumulative infiltration curves was determined. Occurrence of the phase inflection point was found to be a function of the antecedent soil moisture content. The infiltration behaviour during the first phase was considered to represent flow of water through the soil macrospores in the drier upper soil layer and three-dimensional flow into soil peds while the soil swells sealing the macrospores during the transitional state. The second phase represented vertical flow of water into lower soil layers. The study recommended using the application depth and time as equal to those determined by the inflection point. It was therefore, advised to employ a high non-erosive inflow rate to the level basin fields and stop irrigation when the advance rate approaches the field end so as to avoid crop damage by excessive water pending and improve irrigation efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) frequently is performed as part of the surgical management of breast cancer as a therapeutic and prognostic index, but increasingly has been perceived as associated with significant complications. Data on efficacy and complications of ALND in Sudan are lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and complications of ALND in patients with breast cancer treated with mastectomy and breast-conserving surgery. Methods: We performed a prospective, hospital-based study in women with invasive breast cancer who underwent modified radical mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery with ALND between September 2014 and August 2015. The efficacy of ALND was defined as retrieval of ≥ 10 lymph nodes. Complications of ALND were assessed objectively and subjectively and defined as either present or absent. Results: Of 96 patients with breast cancer included in the study, 40 (42%) developed postaxillary clearance complications. The median follow-up time was 18 months (range, 12 to 24 months). Numbness was reported by 21.9% of patients. Seroma was noted in 15.6% and lymphedema in 9.4%. Approximately 9% reported episodes of infection or inflammation at the surgical site. None of the studied factors were found to affect the incidence of complications significantly. Ten or more lymph nodes were retrieved in 81.3% of patients, and nodal metastasis was found in 62.5%. Conclusion: This study shows that the prevalence of undesirable adverse effects after ALND is 42%, with paresthesia and seroma being the most prevalent. The lymphedema prevalence was low in relation to other evaluated symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses organic geochemical and basin modelling results to examine the potential for thermogenic gas generation from oil-to-gas conversion of the organic-rich Lower Cretaceous Al Renk shales in the Melut Basin, South Sudan. The overall geochemical results show that the Al Renk shales are considered good gas-source rocks with total organic carbon (TOC) content >1 wt % and a low hydrogen index (i.e., HI < 150 mg HC/g TOC; mainly Type III kerogen). This finding contrasts with the source of organic matter and biomarkers related to the depositional environment. Based on biomarker indicators, the Al Renk shales contains a mixture of aquatic organic matter with some terrigenous land plants and was deposited under suboxic to relatively oxic settings in a lacustrine environment. The presence of mixed aquatic and terrigenous organic matter in lacustrine shale sediments suggests a mix of Types II and III kerogen as the original organic matter input during deposition. The geochemical and optical maturity indicators represent late-mature oil to gas generation windows, implying that the Al Renk shale has substantial thermogenic gas generation potential. Therefore, high thermal maturation is a crucial factor in drastically altering the original organic matter (OM) and decreasing HI values (conversion of kerogen to hydrocarbons). The kerogen to oil conversion and the subsequent cracking of the retained oil into thermogenic gas have been simulated by the burial/thermal/generation models in the Agordeed-1 well. These models show that nearly 10–50% of kerogen was transformed into oil during the Late Cretaceous (78–68 Ma), correlating with the early to peak mature of oil generation window (0.62–0.85 %Ro). Moreover, oil was expelled from the Al Renk source rock system during the Late Cretaceous to Late Eocene. From the Late Eocene until the present, significant amounts of residual oil were cracked into gas due to the maturation of the gas generation window (>1.30 Easy % Ro), which is ideal for wet gas generation. Consequently, the findings of this study advocate for conventional gas exploration in the Melut Basin's deeper stratigraphic succession, where the Al Renk Shale Formation has reached a high maturity level of the gas generation window. • Al Renk shales are favourable source rocks for petroleum generation potential. • Al Renk shales encompass a mixture of organic matter and were deposited in a lacustrine environment.. • Al Renk shales currently contribute to the generation of thermogenic gas. • Thermogenic gas is formed due to increased thermal maturation during the Late Eocene and continuing till today.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments were undertaken in Elgaba scheme for two seasons (1999/2000 and 2000/2001) to evaluate the efficacy of imidacloprid (as Confidor 200SL) as part of a technical cultural practices package (earthing, pruning and regular irrigation) in the control of the date palm green pit scale insect Asterolecanium phoenicis (Rao). Four doses of Confidor 200SL (15, 20, 25 and 35ml/palm) were compared with standard insecticide carbofuran (Furadan 5G (60g/palm) and untreated control. A Completely Randomized Design with six replicates (one palm = replicate) was used. The insects (all developing stages) were counted per cm2 per leaflet. Eight leaflets, from each palm, were inspected biweekly. Date yield and quality were determined at harvest. Residue analysis was carried out twice on dates, soil and plants intercropped with date palms. Results indicated that percentage mortality of both adults and immature stages were significantly higher in the insecticides treatments than in untreated control after two weeks. All insecticides lost their efficacy after twelfth weeks. The efficacy of the treatments followed the order; Confidor (35ml/palm), Furadan 5G (60g/palm) and Confidor (25ml/palm). No detectable residues of imidaclprid were found on dates, soil or intercropped plants even at the high dose of Confidor 200SL (35ml/palm) used. Date palm treated with Confidor (25ml/palm), developed normally and the dates reached maturity (ripening) normally compared to the untreated control. The percentage of unripe date (1.7) was significantly (p=0.01) lower than in the untreated control (27.33). Confidor checked the activity of termites and many other pests. Partial budget analysis indicated the profitability of this package as estimated by the marginal rate of return of 29.8% and 201% over one and three year's period, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For effective control of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in East Africa, new rapid diagnostic tests are required to replace current tests with low sensitivity. The aim of this study is to improve diagnosis of VL in East Africa by testing a new antigen from an autochthonous L. donovani strain in Sudan. Methodology and Principle Findings: We cloned, expressed and purified a novel recombinant protein antigen of L. donovani from Sudan, designated rKLO8, that contains putative conserved domains with significant similarity to the immunodominant kinesin proteins of Leishmania. rKLO8 exhibited 93% and 88% amino acid identity with cloned kinesin proteins of L. infantum (synonymous L. chagasi) (K39) and L. donovani (KE16), respectively. We evaluated the diagnostic efficiency of the recombinant protein in ELISA for specific detection of VL patients from Sudan. Data were compared with a rK39 ELISA and two commercial kits, the rK39 strip test and the direct agglutination test (DAT). Of 106 parasitologically confirmed VL sera, 104 (98.1%) were tested positive by rKLO8 as compared to 102 (96.2%) by rK39. Importantly, the patients' sera showed increased reactivity with rKLO8 than rK39. Specificity was 96.1% and 94.8% for rKLO8- and rK39 ELISAs, respectively. DAT showed 100% specificity and 94.3% sensitivity while rK39 strip test performed with 81.1% sensitivity and 98.7% specificity. Conclusion: The increased reactivity of Sudanese VL sera with the rKLO8 makes this antigen a potential candidate for diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis in Sudan. However, the suitability at the field level will depend on its performance in a rapid test format. Author Summary: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an infectious disease caused by the Leishmania donovani complex including Leishmania donovani in East Africa and India and by Leishmania infantum in the Mediterranean area and Latin America. Clinical diagnosis of VL in East Africa is difficult as maladies with similar symptoms are endemic. For this reason, reliable diagnosis of VL is extremely important. However, tests based on antibody reaction with rK39 are not sensitive in East Africa most likely due to the genetic diversity of different Leishmania species. In this study, we cloned and expressed a new antigenic protein (rKLO8) of L. donovani strain originating from Sudan. Sequence analysis confirmed that KLO8 differs from other kinesin proteins of Leishmania. We thus tested and compared the performance of rKLO8 with rK39 and other commercial tests for VL diagnosis in Sudan. Our data show that sera of VL patients reacted stronger with rKLO8 than rK39, suggesting improved diagnosis of patients with low antibody titres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For effective control of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in East Africa, new rapid diagnostic tests are required to replace current tests with low sensitivity. The aim of this study is to improve diagnosis of VL in East Africa by testing a new antigen from an autochthonous L. donovani strain in Sudan. Methodology and Principle Findings: We cloned, expressed and purified a novel recombinant protein antigen of L. donovani from Sudan, designated rKLO8, that contains putative conserved domains with significant similarity to the immunodominant kinesin proteins of Leishmania. rKLO8 exhibited 93% and 88% amino acid identity with cloned kinesin proteins of L. infantum (synonymous L. chagasi) (K39) and L. donovani (KE16), respectively. We evaluated the diagnostic efficiency of the recombinant protein in ELISA for specific detection of VL patients from Sudan. Data were compared with a rK39 ELISA and two commercial kits, the rK39 strip test and the direct agglutination test (DAT). Of 106 parasitologically confirmed VL sera, 104 (98.1%) were tested positive by rKLO8 as compared to 102 (96.2%) by rK39. Importantly, the patients' sera showed increased reactivity with rKLO8 than rK39. Specificity was 96.1% and 94.8% for rKLO8- and rK39 ELISAs, respectively. DAT showed 100% specificity and 94.3% sensitivity while rK39 strip test performed with 81.1% sensitivity and 98.7% specificity. Conclusion: The increased reactivity of Sudanese VL sera with the rKLO8 makes this antigen a potential candidate for diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis in Sudan. However, the suitability at the field level will depend on its performance in a rapid test format. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Identifying the location and size of residual foci of infections is critical where malaria elimination is the primary goal. Here the spatial heterogeneity of Plasmodium falciparum infections within the urban extent of Khartoum state in Sudan is investigated using data from cross-sectional surveys undertaken from 1999 to 2008 to inform the Khartoum Malaria Free Initiative (KMFI). Methods: From 1999-2008 the KMFI undertook cross-sectional surveys of 256 clusters across 203 random samples of residential blocks in the urban Khartoum state in September of each year. Within sampled blocks, at least five persons, including at least one child under the age of five years, were selected from each household. Blood smears were collected from the sampled individuals to examine the presence of P. falciparum parasites. Residential blocks were mapped. Data were analysed for spatial clustering using the Bernoulli model and the significance of clusters were tested using the Kulldorff scan statistic. Results: A total of 128,510 malaria slide examinations were undertaken during the study period. In 1999, overall prevalence was 2.5%, rising to 3.2% in 2000 and consistently staying below 1% in subsequent years. From 2006, over 90% of all surveyed clusters reported no infections. Spatial clustering of infections was present in each year but not statistically significant in the years 2001, 2002, 2004 and 2008. Spatial clusters of high infection were often located at the junction of the Blue and White Niles. Conclusion: Persisting foci of malaria infection in Khartoum are likely to distort wide area assessments and disproportionately affect future transmission within the city limits. Improved investments in surveillance that combines both passive and active case detection linked to a geographic information system and a more detailed analysis of the location and stability of foci should be undertaken to facilitate and track malaria elimination in the state of Khartoum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the association between Helicobacter pylori seropositivity and low birthweight (LBW).Methods: The present case-control study was conducted at a Sudanese maternity hospital from September 1 to December 30, 2015. Patients who delivered single neonates with LBW (>500 g but <2500 g) and the subsequent singleton delivery with birthweight of 2500-4000 g were included. A questionnaire was used to collect medical and obstetric data. The presence of malarial parasites in peripheral, placental, and umbilical cord samples was investigated using blood films. The presence of H. pylori immunoglobulin G (IgG) in maternal and umbilical cord serum samples was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Results: The study included 87 patients in each of the LBW and control groups. Maternal serum tested positive for H. pylori IgG among 66 (75.9%) and 48 (55.2%) patients in the LBW and control groups (P=0.006); no malarial parasites were observed. Similarly, umbilical cord serum tested positive for H. pylori IgG among 66 (75.9%) and 34 (39.1%) patients in the LBW and control groups (P<0.001). Maternal H. pylori IgG seropositivity (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.4-7.2; P=0.003) and umbilical cord H. pylori IgG seropositivity (OR 2.4, 95% confidence interval 2.1-10.2; P<0.001) were significantly associated with LBW.Conclusion: Seropositivity for H. pylori IgG was associated with LBW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To minimize the chance for future visceral leishmaniasis (VL) epidemics such as the 1988–1991 epidemic in Sudan, several VL detection tools have been introduced. There are many VL diagnostics with excellent sensitivities, specificities, and ease of use reported. However, additional test characteristics should be considered for use in the detection of future VL epidemics. The potential for local production or uninterrupted availability, low production and application costs, and stability at ≥45°C are of the utmost importance. Of the antibody-, antigen-, or DNA-based methods introduced, only a liquid direct agglutination test (LQ-DAT) remains in routine use. The LQ-DAT test may be the ideal diagnostic for detection of VL epidemics due to its low cost ($0.50/patient), stability under frequent and long-duration electric failures, and high level of reproducibility. The improved reliability for VL detection achieved locally through incorporating autochthonous L. donovani strains in antigen processing and precluding toxicants in test execution provides optimal sensitivity and safety for routine and mass application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports the study conducted in Khartoum Hospital, Sudan, about women during pregnancy and puerperium with deep venous thrombosis who are at a lower rate of factor V Leiden mutation. Particular focus is given to the materials and methods used during the study as well as the results achieved due to the study.

In order to determine the prevalence of fetal mortality and investigate hypothesized risk factors associated with its occurrence in goats, 962 female goats were studied using ultrasound. To diagnose pregnancy and to identify dead fetuses, ultrasound scanning was conducted using real-time machines equipped with a transabdominal curvilinear probe. A questionnaire was supplied for collection of signalment and sampling data. Ultrasound examination revealed that out of 962 female goats, 431 (44.8%) goats were diagnosed as nonpregnant, 88 (9.14%) were pseudopregnant, 4 (0.42%) were diagnosed as having pyometra, and 439 were diagnosed as pregnant (45.63%). Of the 439 pregnant goats, 36 were diagnosed as bearing dead fetuses (8.2%). Season of the year, locality, breed of the dam, age of the dam, parity number, breed of the buck, and feeding type were all found not to be significantly associated with fetal death. It is concluded that ultrasound is a reliable method for diagnosis of fetal death and documenting the prevalence of its occurrence in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Newcastle disease (ND), a major constraint to poultry production worldwide, is a highly contagious disease of many species of domestic, exotic, and wild birds caused by ND virus (NDV). Epidemiological studies are lacking regarding ND in village chickens, including the traditional and intensive production systems used in Sudan. However, it is necessary to develop appropriate strategies to control the disease. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the flock- and bird-level seroprevalence of NDV in backyard chickens in West Kordofan State, Sudan, and to identify the risk factors associated with ND in the study area. Materials and Methods: The seroprevalence of the circulating NDV and bird-level risk factors associated with ND was determined in backyard chickens from March to October 2017, in six villages (Alnowara, Alleait, Geibaish, Baiad, Sougoh, and Alnuhoud) in the Geibaish and Elnuhoud localities of West Kordofan State. Results: Using the hemagglutination-inhibition test, the bird- and flock-level seroprevalences of antibodies to NDV were estimated as 20.6% (78/378) and 45% (18/40), respectively. Bird-level NDV seropositivity in backyard chickens was significantly associated with the reason for raising chickens, type of housing, contact with neighboring poultry, contact with wild birds, and chicken mortality caused by infectious diseases (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: This study indicated that NDV is circulating in backyard chickens and may act as a potential source of infection for other birds and thus persistence of ND among local traditionally managed chickens in the areas of West Kordofan State. Risk factors contributing to ND occurrence are important for designing appropriate prevention and control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prevalence of HCV seropositivity among the hemodialysis population in Sudan is estimated to be around 34%. We undertook a cross sectional study in two major HD centers in Khartoum, Sudan for the prevalence of HCV seropositivity among the hemodialysis patients, during January to March 2005. Testing for HCV antibodies was performed using 3rd generation enzyme linked immunoadsorption assay (ELISA). A total of 236 patients were included in the study: 218 adults and 18 children. The mean age was 43.6 +/- 15.6 years, and the majority was males: 71.6%. The cause of renal failure was unknown in 168 patients (71.2%). The mean HD duration was 36.6 +/- 35.1 months. Prevalence of HCV seropositivity was 23.7%. Among 170 patients who were previously HCV seronegative, 30 (17.1%) seroconverted to positive in one year (estimated incidence: 63 new cases per year). HCV seropositivity was associated with longer duration of dialysis (p < 0.00001), previous surgery (p= 0.026), age of over 30 and years (p = 0.008), and dialysis in multiple centers (p= 0.005). We conclude that although HCV seropositivity in our study was lower than previously reported, it was still high among HD patients in Sudan. Nosocomial transmission of HCV among hemodialysis patients is a contributing factor.