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BackgroundHepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a leading cause of chronic hepatitis, maternal complications, and neonatal deaths in sub-Saharan Africa. Mother-to-child transmission is a major route of HBV transmission in endemic areas. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B infection and its associated factors among pregnant women attending Antenatal Care clinics at SOS Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia.MethodsThe research followed a cross-sectional design, and the participants were chosen through systematic random sampling, including every fifth outpatient. Each participant provided a blood sample for standard testing, and their consent was obtained before conducting Hepatitis B screening using the ELISA method.ResultsIn our study of 384 pregnant women, 43 individuals (11.2%) tested positive for HBsAg. The frequency of HBsAg seropositivity was significantly higher in subjects with no education when compared to those with primary education (AOR = 0.1, 95% CI: 0.01–0.96, p = 0.046). Caesarian Section (AOR = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.004–0.0103, p = 0.001), blood transfusion (AOR = 11.6, 95% CI: 3.44–38.08, p = 0.001), previous dental procedures (AOR = 0.1, 95% CI: 0.04–0.38, p = 0.001), and unsafe injections in the past (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.09–0.91, p = 0.035) were identified as significant risk factors for hepatitis positivity.ConclusionsThe study found a higher prevalence of hepatitis B compared to previous studies. Factors such as blood transfusion, dental procedures, Caesarian Section, and unsafe injections were associated with hepatitis B infection. It is essential to raise awareness, promote preventive measures, and implement routine screening for pregnant women so as to stop the transmission of hepatitis B to their children.

Abstract Background: Globally, Streptococcus pharyngitis is a major public health challenge. The current study investigates the prevalence of Streptococcal pyogenes among children under 17 years old in ENT Kosti Teaching Hospital and examines the susceptibility of isolated S. pyogenes strains to commonly used antibiotics. Methods: A total of 384 throat swabs were obtained from children under the age of 17 who attended the Kosti Teaching Hospital between 2019 and 2021. Streptococcus pyogenes was isolated by conventional microbiology procedures. Each S. pyogenes strain was subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing according to the CLSI guidelines. Results: Most participants of this study were females 219 (57%) and aged between 5 and 10 years 259 (67.4%). Out of the 384 participants, 134 (34.9%) and 255 (66.4%) suffered from lymphadenopathy and tonsil hyperplasia, respectively. Interestingly, lymphadenopathy and tonsil hyperplasia were more (P ˂ 0.05) in the 5–10 age group than those aged 11–16 years. Moreover, 41.4% of the participants were infected by a GAS sore throat. GAS sore throat is significantly associated with lymphadenopathy (AOR: 2.375, 95% CI: 1.479–3.815, P ˂ 0.000) and tonsil hyperplasia (AOR: 3.374, 95% CI: 1.939–5.874, P ˂ 0.000). Notably, males (AOR: 0.853, 95% CI: 0.549–1.325, P 0.479) and individuals aged 5–10 years (AOR: 0.867, 95% CI: 0.464–1.618, P 0.654) were less likely to have a GAS sore throat. In our study, all isolated strains were sensitive to penicillin. Clindamycin, azithromycin, and erythromycin resistance were observed in 7 (4.4%), 44 (27.7%), and 47 (29.6%) isolates, respectively. Conclusion: The study displayed the current situation of GAS sore throat in the White Nile state. Penicillin was found to be the effective drug to cure S. tonsillitis but a high rate of resistance to macrolides was noticed which is an alarming sign.

Mohd Saleem,1 Azharuddin Sajid Syed Khaja,1 Ashfaque Hossain,2 Fahaad Alenazi,3 Kamaleldin B Said,1 Soha Abdallah Moursi,1 Homoud Abdulmohsin Almalaq,4 Hamza Mohamed,5 Ehab Rakha,6,7 Mohammed Salem Alharbi,8 Salma Ahmed Ali Babiker,9 Kauser Usman10 1Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Hail, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates; 3Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Hail, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 4Hail Health Cluster, King Khalid Hospital, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 5Anatomy Department, Faculty of Medicine, Northern Border University, Arar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 6Laboratory Department, King Khalid Hospital, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 7Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt; 8Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Hail, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 9Department of Family Medicine, Hail University Medical Clinics, University of Hail, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 10Department of Internal Medicine, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, IndiaCorrespondence: Azharuddin Sajid Syed Khaja, Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Hail, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Tel +966 59 184 9573, Email skazharuddin@uoh.edu.saPurpose: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is associated with a higher mortality risk for critical patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). Several strategies, including using β-lactam antibiotics, have been employed to prevent VAP in the ICU. However, the lack of a gold-standard method for VAP diagnosis and a rise in antibiotic-resistant microorganisms have posed challenges in managing VAP. The present study is designed to identify, characterize, and perform antimicrobial susceptibility of the microorganisms from different clinical types of infections in ICU patients with emphasis on VAP patients to understand the frequency of the latter, among others.Patients and Methods: A 1-year prospective study was carried out on patients in the ICU unit at a tertiary care hospital, Hail, Saudi Arabia.Results: A total of 591 clinically suspected hospital-acquired infections (HAI) were investigated, and a total of 163 bacterial isolates were obtained from different clinical specimens with a high proportion of bacteria found associated with VAP (70, 43%), followed by CAUTI (39, 24%), CLABSI (25, 15%), and SSI (14, 8.6%). Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common isolate 39 (24%), followed by Acinetobacter baumannii 35 (21.5%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 25 (15.3%), and Proteus spp 23 (14%). Among the highly prevalent bacterial isolates, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase was predominant 42 (42.4%).Conclusion: Proper use of antibiotics, continuous monitoring of drug sensitivity patterns, and taking all precautionary measures to prevent beta-lactamase-producing organisms in clinical settings are crucial and significant factors in fending off life-threatening infections for a better outcome.Keywords: ICU, VAP, ESBL, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii

Cancer is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and Sudan has a high cancer burden. The issue is that the data acquired from cancer patients grows yearly, and standard methodologies for analyzing this data are no longer adequate. Data mining techniques such as frequent pattern analysis and association rule mining are utilized in this research to assist in identifying hidden patterns and relationships in data. These strategies were utilized to provide valuable insights into the spread of cancer in Sudan and to assist healthcare professionals in making better diagnosis and treatment decisions. Support and confidence were utilized as measurement criteria. Support is used to evaluate the frequency of occurrence of an item or set of items among all transactions. In contrast, confidence is used to assess the strength of the relationship between groups of things. According to the findings, women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with cancer. The most common cancers in both genders include breast, prostate, ovarian, esophagus, and cervical cancers.

Background: Streptococcus pyogenes is a significant pathogen that causes various types of human diseases which range from mild to fatal illness. This work was designed to assess the value of symptoms in the prediction of disease and macrolides resistance. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional hospital-based study during 2020–2021 in Kosti Teaching Hospital (Kosti city, Sudan) to evaluate the link between symptoms with Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infection. Streptococcal tonsillitis was diagnosed by throat swabs culture, and macrolides resistance was detected by phenotypic and genotypic methods. Results: There was no significant variation in the mean of reported symptoms between gender and residence. Macrolides resistance and resistance genes had no significant effect on symptoms. On correlation analysis, age and education level were negatively correlated with symptoms score. Conclusions: The study highlights the link between symptoms with GAS tonsillitis and suggests the requirement for more care in children.

Background: Malaria infection remains the most serious and widespread protozoan infection of humans and has been associated with different changes in hematological parameters. This study aimed to detect the effects of malaria infection on hematological parameters in Sudanese patients. Methods: This was a case–control study including 100 patients and 50 controls required from Kosti Teaching Hospital (Kosti City) from October 2, to November 11, 2020. All patients and controls were investigated for blood film for malaria, complete blood counts, and peripheral blood picture. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results: Hemoglobin (Hb) was decreased in 75% of our patients and in 10% of controls, P < 0.000. Hematocrit (HCT) was decreased in 55% of patients and in 8% of controls, P < 0.000. MCH was decreased in 33% of patients and in 12% of controls, P = 0.013. The mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) was decreased in 30% of study patients and in 10% of controls, P = 0.002. The mean corpuscular volume was decreased in 34% of patients and in 8% of controls, P = 0.056. Platelet (PLTs) count was decreased in 46% of patients and 0% of controls, P < 0.000. Platelet crit (PCT) was decreased in 75% of patients and in 16% of controls, P < 0.000. Furthermore, there were differences in white blood cell (WBC) counts between malaria parasite patients and controls, P = 0.058. No significant difference in red blood cell counts was seen between malaria parasite patients and controls, P = 0.797. Conclusions: Malaria parasite infection linked to many changes in hematological parameter characterized by reduction in WBC counts, PLT counts, PCT, Hb level, HCT, MCH, and MCHC.

Background: Recently, the novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has a wide spread around the world. Clinically, it was responsible for respiratory illness ranged from mild to life-threatening infection. The study aimed to investigate the link of gender, age, ABO blood groups, and hematological indices with COVID-19 infection. Methods: One hindered COVID-19 cases, as confirmed using reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction test, were checked for some sociodemographic features, blood group, and hematology parameters. A blood sample was collected from each person in an EDTA container and immediately tested for blood group using commercial antisera, in addition to complete blood count parameters using of a semiautomated hematology analyzer (Mindray BC-3200). Results: Of 100 COVID-19 patients, 52% were male and 48% were female. About 33% and 31% of the study participants were of age group 15–31 and 32–49 years, respectively. The majority (37%) of COVID-19 patients carried blood group O+ve, followed by A+ve (24%). A+ve blood group was significantly more reported in males (32.7%) than females (14.6%). Notably, 61% of participants showed low Hb level. Erythropenia was detected in 41% of the participants, while thrombocytopenia was observed only in 19% of the patients. Moreover, lymphocytopenia was detected in 82%, low packed cell volume in 66%, decreased mean corpuscular volume in 20%, and declined mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration in 8% of the participants. In contrast, leukocytosis and neutrophilia were found in 69% and 73% of the participants, respectively. Conclusion: Taken together, the study findings highlighted the link of COVID-19 with age, gender, blood groups, and hematology parameters, which is important in diagnosis, prognosis, and management of illness.

Background: Helicobacter pylori infections are associated with significant morbidity. The study intended to screen H. pylori among symptomatic patients and assess the performance of anti-H. pylori immunoglobulin G (IgG) test compared to stool Ag test as well as to investigate some clinical and hematology findings in H. pylori-seropositive persons. Methods: One hundred individuals with the clinical suspicion of infection by H. pylori and 100 control subjects matched for gender (χ2 = 0.026, P = 0.873) and age groups (χ2 = 5.303, P = 0.151) were recruited. Clinical assessment, endoscopy, anti-H. pylori IgG test, and stool for cagA Ag were performed to investigate H. pylori infection. White blood cells, red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were also analyzed. Results: Vomiting and hematemesis were reported in 44% and 8% of the study group, respectively. Whereas, nausea, epigastric pain, and weight loss were observed in all (100%). Notably, gastritis and duodenal ulcer were detected in 100% and 80% of cases, respectively. Based on Immunochromatographic test (ICT), 75% and 78% of the study group were positive for anti-H. pylori Ab and cagA Ag of H. pylori, respectively. The odd of reported a positive result for H. pylori was less likely in females than males as determined by anti-H. pylori (odds ratio [OR]: 0.529, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.142–1.970, P: 0.343) and stool cagA Ag test (OR: 0.364, 95% CI: 0.087–1.532, P: 0.168). Compared to the cagA Ag test, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of anti-H. pylori test were 77.2%, 85.3%, 78.7%, 84.1%, and 81.9%, respectively. Interestingly, RBCs count, MCH, and Hb were significantly higher in the control compared to study cases, P < 0.05. Conclusions: Our results highlight the epidemiology of into H. pylori, assess the performance of anti H. pylori test compared to cagA Ag test, and demonstrate the direct link between some hematologic indices and H. pylori. Further studies are necessary to verify these findings.

Background: Sickle cell disease is related to many health issues (such as stroke, severe infections, and sickle cell crisis) and elevated risk of death. This study was aimed to investigate and compare microalbuminuria (MAU), creatinine, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) between sickle cell disease (SCD) patients and healthy individuals. Methods: A total of 156 cases and 156 control subjects were included. MAU, creatinine, GFR, and body mass index (BMI) were measured. Results: The estimated levels of MAU and creatinine were significantly higher in cases than controls, but the mean of BMI and GFR was significantly lower in cases than the control group. In patients of sickle cell disease, the mean MAU, GFR, creatinine, and BMI levels in females, rural area residents, and subjects aged 2–13 years were higher than controls, P < 0.05. MAU and GFR were also higher (P < 0.05) in males and subjects aged 14–25 years of study cases than controls. Conclusion: Accordingly, this study indicated the impact of SCD in MAU, creatinine, GFR, and BMI, which are significant in the diagnosis of nephropathy.

Abstract Background Globally, urogenital and intestinal parasitosis remain significant health challenges. They are associated with rising morbidity, death, and many harmful outcomes. A little is known concerning parasitosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Our study planned to investigate the urogenital and intestinal parasitic infections among type 2 diabetes patients compare to non-diabetic (Control) individuals and examine the intensity of helminthiasis in both groups. Methods At Kosti Teaching Hospital (Sudan), 300 Urine and 300 stool samples have collected from 150 type 2 diabetes and 150 control individuals, along with the socio-demographic data using a structured questionnaire. The parasitic infections were examined by direct sedimentation technique for urine specimens. Whereas, for fecal samples, simple-direct saline, formal-ether concentration, Kato-Katz, and modified Ziehl–Neelsen techniques were used. Results Out of 150 type 2 diabetes patients studied, 31 (20.6%) and 14 (9.3%) had intestinal parasitosis and urogenital schistosomiasis, respectively. Whereas, 16 (10.6%) and 8 (5.3%) of the control group were infected, respectively. Compared to the control group, the odds of testing positive for either urogenital schistosomiasis (AOR: 2.548, 95% CI: 0.836–7.761, P = 0.100) or intestinal parasitic diseases (AOR: 2.099, 95% CI: 0.973–4.531, P = 0.059) were greater in diabetic individuals. Likewise, the intensities of helminthiasis were much higher in the diabetic patients and positively correlated with the duration of illness. The rate of urogenital schistosomiasis was also significantly different among the disease duration subcategories. Conclusions Our study has highlighted the relationship of type 2 diabetes with urogenital and intestinal parasitic infections and enhanced our knowledge about the frequency of particular urogenital and intestinal parasites as well as the intensity of helminths infection in type 2 diabetes compared to non-diabetic individuals, which are important for further studies.

Abstract Objective Our study planned to investigate the current positivity rate and distribution of the serologic markers of TTIs among male blood donors of the White Nile state, Sudan. Results The overall reported seropositive cases of TTIs was 15.91%, and percentages of anti-Human immunodeficiency virus 1/2 (anti-HIV1/2), Hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBVsAg), anti-Hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV), and anti-Treponema palladium (anti-T. palladium) were 2.61%, 5.57%, 1.40%, and 5.72%, respectively. Out of 10897 donors examined, 0.59% had a serological sign of multiple infections. Furthermore, the odds of testing positive for TTIs were higher in the 28–37 age group (OR: 2.620, 95% CI: 2.324–2.955) and lower in the 38–47 age group (OR: 0.671, 95% CI: 0.567–0.794) compared to individuals of 18–27 years old. Likewise, it is more in individuals of Kosti (OR: 1.122, 95% CI: 0.987–1.277) and Rabak (OR: 1.354, 95% CI: 1.188-1.543) localities compared to Al Douiem locality. Anti-HIV/anti-T. palladium (27.70%) and anti-HIV/HBVsAg (23.07%) were the most frequently detected serologic markers of co-infections, P = 0.002.

Globally, tuberculosis is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in many countries. Previous studies suggest that the incidence and severity of tuberculosis are associated with low levels of vitamin D (Vit D). Therefore, this study aimed to determine the occurrence and associated factors of vitamin D3 deficiency in pulmonary tuberculosis patients at White Nile State, Sudan. 101 individuals of diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis patients (71 males and 30 females) and 100 non-TB controls (58 males and 42 females) were included in this study. Sputum samples were obtained from TB patients and subjected to examination for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) using Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) stain and Gene Xpert analysis. Blood samples were collected from both groups and Serum 25(OH)- vitamin D3 was determined by an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. HIV infection in Tuberculosis (TB) group was also investigated using the immunochromatographic test. In our study, the majority of TB patients were suffered from TB relapse (36.6%); non-HIV infected individuals (99.1%) or showed a positive result for AFB (61.4%) in Gene Xpert analysis. Moreover, there is a significant difference in microscopy findings and bacillary levels of AFB, and Rifampicin (RIF) susceptibility pattern of M. tuberculosis strain among sputum samples of TB patients, P-values less 0.0001. Furthermore, we found that TB patients were suffered from vitamin D deficiency. In particular, the mean of vitamin D level was significantly much lower in TB patients (26.7 ± 1.6) compared to non-TB controls (117.3 ± 3.2), P-value equal 0.0001. Likewise, it’s much lower in females, individuals of 21–40 years old, and patients with high bacillary levels or those infected by Rifampicin resistance strain. Accordingly, our study was highlighted the TB and Vit D deficiency relationship and showed the need for further studies to a better understanding of the impact of TB on Vit D level and investigate whether vitamin D supplementation can have a role in the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis.

Objective: H. pylori infection remains a major public health challenge. Our study aimed to determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection among the local population of the Timergara city in Lower Dir District of Pakistan and investigating the common risk factors associated with disease development. Methods: Between September 2016 to January 2017, 520 individuals have involved in this study. A venous blood sample along with questionnaire data was collected from each participant and H. pylori infection investigated using Indirect Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay. Results: Out of 520 persons studied, 115 (22.1%) were positive and 405 (77.9%) were negative. The majority of infected individuals were males 79 (29.4%) compared to females 34 (14.3%), P value˂0.000. The probability of H. pylori infection was more among smokers 32 (33%), snuff addictive 29 (35.8%), and regular soft drinks takers 57 (43.5%). Furthermore, the logistic regression revealed that the odds of developing H. pylori infection were significantly higher in males (AOR:2.1, 95%CI:1.0–4.7), smokers (AOR:1.7, 95%CI:0.4–2.1), snuff addiction (AOR:5.5, 95%CI:1.2–24.1), no regular toothpaste users (AOR:16.1, 95%CI:8.7–29.8), and regularly soft drinks takers (AOR:4.5, 95%CI:1.7–12.0). Likewise, it was greater in no formal (AOR:3.3, 95%CI:3.7–2.9), primary school (AOR:1.7,95%CI:0.0–0.0), and secondary school (AOR:5.5,95%:2.3–13.2) educated persons compared to individuals of University education level. Conclusions: Our study has highlighted the epidemiology and risk factors associated with H. pylori infection in Timergara city and revealed the need for further studies to a better understanding of the epidemiology of H. pylori infection, which is helpful in diagnosis and prevention of disease.

Currently, several studies propose that the dominant intestinal bacteria are core flora. Besides keeping the homeostasis of the intestinal environment, the intestinal microflora also plays a role in body metabolism, production of some vitamins, and control of barrier function. The study aimed to investigate the jejunum microbiota in diabetic rats as well as it’s the relationship with Ceftriaxone sodium-mediated gut dysbiosis, diabetic parameters, and intestinal permeability. Thirty-two Wistar rats (Male) were enrolled and divided into four groups (A, B, C, and D; N = 8). Subsequently, T2DM was induced in C and D groups by HFD/STZ model and then gut dysbiosis in B and D groups via intragastric administration of Ceftriaxone sodium for two weeks. The food-water intake, body weight, fasting blood glucose, plasma insulin, HOMA-IR, intestinal permeability, and jejunum microbiota and it’s histology were investigated. In this study, T2DM was associated with a significant decrease in the richness and diversity of jejunum microbiota, elevation in the intestinal permeability, and higher abundance of some opportunistic pathogens. Ceftriaxone sodium-induced gut dysbiosis declined food-water intake, damagedthe villi of jejunum tissue, increased intestinal permeability, and affected the diversity of jejunum microbiota. In diabetic rats, Ceftriaxone sodium-mediated gut dysbiosis also declined the abundance of someSCFAs bacteria and raised the abundant of some opportunistic bacteria such as Staphylococcus_sciuri. Interestingly, we found that several bacteria were negatively correlated with HOMA-IR, fasting blood glucose, body weight, and intestinal permeability. Overall, the study highlighted the jejunum microflora alterations in HFD/STZ diabetic rats and assessed the effect of Ceftriaxone sodium-induced gut dysbiosis on diabetic parameters, jejunum microbiota and histology, and intestinal permeability, which are of potential for further studies.

Type 2 diabetes is a leading cause of morbidity and a common risk of several disorders. Identifying the microbial ecology changes is essential for disease prediction, therapy, and prevention. Thus, our study is aimed at investigating the intestinal microbiota among healthy and type 2 diabetes individuals and exploring the effect of antidiabetic agents on gut bacterial flora. 24 type 2 diabetes (metformin, glimepiride, and nontherapeutic subgroups; N=8) and 24 healthy control subjects were enrolled in this study, and intestinal bacterial microbiota was investigated by analyzing V3-V4 regions of 16S rRNA gene sequence. Numerous alterations were observed in the gut microbial community of diabetic individuals. These changes were characterized by a significant lowered abundance of Faecalibacterium, Fusobacterium, Dialister, and Elusimicrobium in the nontherapeutic subgroup compared to the healthy control group. Likewise, correlation analysis showed a substantial decline in gut microbiota richness and diversity with the duration of illness. Furthermore, antidiabetic agents restored to some extent the richness and diversity of gut microbiota and improved the abundance of many beneficial bacteria with a significant increase of Methanobrevibacter in the metformin subcategory compared to the nontherapeutic subgroup. In return, they decreased the abundance of some opportunistic pathogens. The findings of this study have added a novel understanding about the pathogenesis of the disease and the mechanisms underlying antidiabetic therapy, which are of potential interest for therapeutic lines and further studies.

Background: Transfusion-transmissible infections are well-known global health challenges. The present study is proposed to investigate the seropositivity of anti-HIV1/2, anti-HCV, HBsAg, and anti-T.pallidum among volunteer blood donors of Kosti Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital. Methods: Our study was conducted in a cross-sectional retrospective manner. The data of donors who attended Kosti Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital throughout 2016 to 2018 were reviewed and retrieved manually from blood bank records. Results: Out of 8139 donors, 22.52% were seropositive for serological markers of TTIs and 1.67% were seropositive for at least two serological markers of TTIs. The overall seropositivity rate of anti-HIV1/2, HBsAg, anti-HCV, and anti-T.pallidum was 1.77%, 6.07%, 1.14%, and 11.87%, respectively (p < 0.000). Anti-T.pallidum was the most frequently detected (p < 0.05) marker across all study variables. TTIs seroprevalence was significantly (p < 0.05) varied according to the age, residence, occupations, and blood groups. Notably, there was a rising trend in the rate of anti-HIV1/2 and seropositivity for more than one marker with age (p < 0.000). Regionally, rural area residents had a higher rate of anti-HIV1/2 (2.20%), HBsAg (6.31%), anti-HCV (1.42%), anti-T.pallidum (18.38%), and multiple markers seropositivity (2.28%) compared to urban areas. Between occupations, the highest rate of anti-HIV1/2 (p = 0.483), HBsAg (p = 0.003), anti-HCV (p = 0.408), anti-T.pallidum (p < 0.000), and multiple markers seropositivity (p < 0.000) were detected in farmers. Regarding the screening, we also found that the frequency of anti-T.pallidum was significantly (p = 0.003) higher in donors who carry the AB+ve blood group, whereas anti-HCV (1.83%) was more frequent in donors carry O−ve blood group (p = 0.255). As seen, anti-T.pallidum+HBsAg was the most frequently (1.22%) co-occurring markers. In contrast, anti-T.pallidum+anti-HIV1/2+HBsAg was the lowest frequency one (p < 0.000). Conclusions: The study showed an alarming rate of TTIs, which suggests the requirement for comprehensive surveillance and health education programs.

Background: Toxoplasmosis is a globally distributed parasitic disease. The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence and geographic distribution of toxoplasmosis as well as determine the percentage of toxoplasmosis-associated IgM and IgG seropositivity among different age groups. In addition, it aimed to estimate the proportion of toxoplasma IgM seropositivity among pregnancy trimesters. Methods: A total of 500 pregnant women were included in this study. From each participant, a 5-ml venous blood sample was collected and centrifuged to obtain serum that was tested for Toxoplasma gondii IgM and IgG antibodies using immunochromatographic testing and ELISA. Results: The overall seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was 24.8%. Out of the total of 500 participants, only 8% had a serological marker of acute toxoplasmosis). There is a statistically significant difference in the seroprevalence of disease among the study areas. Amongst positive cases of every trimester, 54.34% of first trimester positive cases had a serologic marker for acute toxoplasmosis. Conclusions: In this study, there is a high prevalence of toxoplasmosis. Therefore, it is necessary to test every pregnant woman for toxoplasmosis and distinguish the type of infection, as well as the conduction of public health education programs to generate the awareness.

Abstract Background Understanding the pathogenesis of malaria in pregnancy and its consequences for both the mother and the baby is fundamental for improving malaria control in pregnant women. Aim The study aimed to investigate the role of ABO blood groups on pregnancy outcomes in an area of unstable malaria transmission in eastern Sudan. Methods A total of 293 women delivering in New Half teaching hospital, eastern Sudan during the period October 2006–March 2007 have been analyzed. ABO blood groups were determined and placental histopathology examinations for malaria were performed. Birth and placental weight were recorded and maternal haemoglobin was measured. Results 114 (39.7%), 61 (22.1%) and 118 (38.2%) women were primiparae, secundiparae and multiparae, respectively. The ABO blood group distribution was 82(A), 59 (B), 24 (AB) and 128 (O). Placental histopathology showed acute placental malaria infections in 6 (2%), chronic infections in 6 (2%), 82 (28.0%) of the placentae showed past infection and 199 (68.0%) showed no infection. There was no association between the age (OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.45–2.2; P = 0.9), parity (OR = 0.6, 95% CI = 0.3–1.2; P = 0.1) and placental malaria infections. In all parity blood group O was associated with a higher risk of past (OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.1–3.2; P = 0.01) placental malaria infection. This was also true when primiparae were considered separately (OR = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.05–6.5, P = 0.03). Among women with all placental infections/past placental infection, the mean haemoglobin was higher in women with the blood group O, but the mean birth weight, foeto-placental weight ratio was not different between these groups and the non-O group. Conclusion These results indicate that women of eastern Sudan are at risk for placental malaria infection irrespective to their age or parity. Those women with blood group O were at higher risk of past placental malaria infection.

Thirty fattened one humped desert camels were used to examine the effect of season on contractile and metabolic properties of Longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle. Ten camels were slaughtered according to seasons of the year (winter, summer and autumn). Season significantly influenced muscle chemical composition, ultimate pH (pHu) and color. Activities of metabolic enzymes were higher during autumn season compared to summer and winter for phosphofructokinase (+64% compared to both seasons) and for isocitrate dehydrogenase (+35% and +145% in autumn vs. summer and winter, respectively). Quantification of muscle myosin heavy chain isoforms by SDS-PAGE electrophoresis showed only presence of type I and type IIa MyHC in camel muscle and indicated high proportion in winter for type I and in autumn for type IIa with respect to other seasons. Several correlations between different MyHC proportions and enzyme activities were reported. These findings indicated that muscle characteristics in camels are influenced by season., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Chemically, goat meat had significantly (P < 0·05) less intramuscular fat and significantly (P < 0·001) more moisture than lamb. The sarcoplasmic protein concentration of the goat meat was significantly (P < 0·001) greater than that of lamb while the myofibrillar protein concentration was similar in the two species. Goat meat was darker red in colour than lamb. It had significantly (P < 0·001) superior water-holding capacity and less cooking losses than lamb. Meat flavour was significantly (P < 0·05) less strong in goat meat than in lamb., (Copyright © 1990. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

L. dorsi, Semitendinosus and Triceps brachii muscles from the camel had similar moisture, protein and fat content, but significantly (P < 0·05) different ash content. These muscles had also similar sarcoplasmic and myofibrillar protein concentrations. L. dorsi muscle had the highest content of collagen but a higher solubility of hydroxyproline than Semitendinosus and Triceps brachii muscles. It also had a brighter red colour. Water-holding capacity was not significantly different between the three muscles studied. Shear force and connective tissue strength were lowest in L. dorsi, intermediate in Semitendinosus and highest in Triceps brachii., (Copyright © 1990. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

The effects of electrical stimulation (80-100 V, 15 pps) of hot-deboned, bovine Longissimus dorsi muscles, followed by ageing at 30° or 40°Cfor 5, 7 or 10 h, on the solubility of sarcoplasmic and myofibrillar proteins, soluble non-protein nitrogen, and on the water-holding capacity, colour, tenderness and microbiological status of the meat, was assessed. Comparisons were made with the same traits measured on non-stimulated controls (average muscle temperature, 5°C), which were cold-deboned post rigor, and with hot-deboned, electrically stimulated muscles, subsequently held at 2°C. For each treatment and its corresponding control, six muscles each were studied. Such electrical stimulation produced a typical acceleration of pH fall post mortem and enhanced ageing changes at both 30°C and 40°C. It significantly increased tenderness over non-stimulated, cold-deboned controls. The higher temperature of ageing, however, was significantly associated with adverse colour development, loss of water-holding capacity and increased microbial growth. Electrical stimulation alone would not obviate the need for immediate refrigeration in hot-deboning operations with ambient temperatures of ∼ 40°C., (Copyright © 1983. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Using linear gradient polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis to separate constituent proteins, horse meat could be clearly distinguished from beef even after heating for 20 min at up to 120°C., (Copyright © 1981. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Electrical stimulation, when accompanied by high temperature incubation, was found to lower the extractability of myofibrillar proteins and increase their degradation, particularly that of the myosin component. Troponin T and myosin light chain 2 were similarly affected. Troponin T and troponins I and C were degraded earlier during ageing in electrically stimulated muscles incubated at high temperature than in conventionally chilled muscles., (Copyright © 1985. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Hot cutting of goat sides into bone-in joints, such as leg, shoulder and loin, 3 h after the sides were left hanging at an ambient temperature of 34°C with (treatment II) or without (treatment I) subsequent chilling prior to freezing did not adversely affect colour of meat, tenderness, cooking loss or water-holding capacity compared with normal chilling. The latter process (treatment III) significantly (P < 0·05) increased evaporative weight loss from the sides. Differences in colour, shear force, evaporative weight loss, cooking loss, drip loss from the leg joint and water-holding capacity between treatment I, where sides were hung at room temperature for 3h, and treatment II, where sides were given an additional chilling period of 21h after hanging, were not significant. These findings indicate that, in countries with ambient temperatures above 30°C, goat sides or carcasses can be cut hot after a 3h hanging period at ambient temperature and subsequently frozen without deterioration in the quality or processing properties of the meat., (Copyright © 1986. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Electrical stimulation decreased the shear force and increased the cooking loss in seven paired lamb Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscles. This treatment did not have any effect on the within-sample variation. Cooking in 55°, 65° and 75°C water baths for 90 min caused a linear increase in the cooking loss and shear force. There was no stimulation-cooking temperature interaction observed. Cooking temperature also had no effect on the within-sample variation. A possible explanation as to why electrical stimulation did not affect the within-sample variation is given., (Copyright © 1983. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Fifty-two mature, fattened male camels were used for determining live animal and carcase measurements, carcase yield and characteristics. The average slaughter weight of mature, fattened desert camels was 456 kg, while the mean empty body weight was 404·8 kg. The camel carcase dressed out as 55·8% and 63·6% of live and empty body weight, respectively. The mean carcase composition was 56% meat,19% bone and 13·7% fat. Of the body components of the camel, the head, hide and liver represented 3·5, 8·6 and 2·0% of the empty body weight, respectively. The correlations between heart girth and liveweight were high and positive. The depth of the camel hump was significantly highly correlated with carcase fat and the hump fat weight had a positive high correlation (r = 0·97, P < 0·001) with carcase fat., (Copyright © 1989. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)