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Abstract One of Egypt’s most notable and historically significant vegetable crops is the Liliaceae plant, Allium cepa L. In this study, the effectiveness of methanolic extracts of Artemisia absinthium leaves, Calotropis procera latex, Moringa oleifera seeds, and Syzygium aromaticum clove was investigated in vitro and, in a greenhouse, setting against Fusarium oxysporum, the pathogen that causes onion basal rot in Assiut Governorate, Egypt. The S. aromaticum extract exhibited the inhibition peak (63.3%), whereas the A. absinthium extract had the lowest inhibition impact against F. oxysporum growth (41.1%). The gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) analysis revealed that 82 important compounds, with abundances ranging from low to high, were present in the tested S. aromaticum’s methanolic extract. The primary components were acetaldehyde, hydroxy- and 2-propanone, 1,1,3,3-tetrachloro-(42.71%), 1,2-ethanediol, and methyl alcohol (34.01%). In comparison to the infected control, the disease severity was significantly reduced by 20% with the use of a plant extracts mixture and Dovex 50% and increased by 62.22% with the use of an extract from A. absinthium. When compared to the infected control, onion plant fresh weight and dry weight were considerably higher under the clove extract therapy. The plant extracts used in this study’s testing contain a number of active ingredients, including amino acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes, which is probably why they have such positive impacts. The application of a combination of plant extracts was suggested as a feasible strategy for improving the growth and productivity of onion plants by the study’s findings. More research is needed to comprehend the mechanisms by which plant extracts promote plant development and to optimize the concentration and timing of administration.

Abstract Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a physical technology with notable effects on living organisms. In the present study, tomato seeds (Solanum lycopersicum var. Bassimo Mill.) were exposed to CAP for various time intervals, ranging from 1 to 5 min, in both continuous and intermittent periods, and were compared with a control group that received no CAP treatment. Seedlings grown from treated seeds exhibited improvements in levels of growth traits, photosynthetic pigments, and metabolite contents when compared to the control group. Seedlings from seeds treated with S04 displayed significant increases in shoot and root lengths, by 32.45% and 20.60% respectively, compared to the control group. Moreover, seedlings from seeds treated with S01 showed a 101.90% increase in total protein, whereas those treated with S02 experienced a 119.52% increase in carbohydrate content. These findings highlight the substantial improvements in growth characteristics, photosynthetic pigments, and metabolite levels in seedlings from treated seeds relative to controls. Total antioxidant capacity was boosted by CAP exposure. The activities of enzymes including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidases were stimulated by S02 and exceeded control treatment by (177.48%, 137.41%, and 103.32%), respectively. Additionally, exposure to S04 increased the levels of non-enzymatic antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, and tannins over the control group (38.08%, 30.10%, 117.19%, and 94.44%), respectively. Our results indicate that CAP-seed priming is an innovative and cost-effective approach to enhance the growth, bioactive components, and yield of tomato seedlings.

The aim of this experiment was to assess the potential benefits of supplementing coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in the diet of Liza ramada, with a focus on growth promotion, enhanced feed utilization, improved digestive enzyme activity, bolstered antioxidant defenses, and overall health. Five diets were prepared, maintaining consistent levels of lipids (7%) and protein (32%). These diets featured equivalent raw materials but varied in their CoQ10 content (0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 mg CoQ10/kg diet). Initial fish weight averaged 90.89±0.41 g, and each diet was administered to fish in triplicate tanks over a 60-day feeding period. Surprisingly, the diet with 80 mg/kg of CoQ10 showed the most substantial increases in weight gain (131.23±1.82 g), specific growth rate (1.40±0.01%/day), and a more favorable feed conversion ratio (1.73±0.01), outperforming the 60, 40, and 20 mg/kg CoQ10 diets. Additionally, 40 and 60 mg/kg CoQ10 diets demonstrated substantial improvements in digestive enzyme activity [protease (22.30±0.80 and 21.34±0.77, U/ mg), amylase (19.90±0.65 and 20.15±0.43, U/ mg), and lipase (27.04±0.80 and 27.41±0.87, U/ mg)], antioxidant markers [superoxide dismutase (14.01±0.27 and 14.44±0.62, U/ mg), catalase (1.19±0.04 and 1.20±0.04, U/ mg), and glutathione peroxidase (3.27±0.14 and 3.47±0.16, U/ mg)], and immune responses [lysozyme (302.12±3.18 and 294.25±7.64, U/ ml), bactericidal activity (5.00±0.04 and 6.03±0.14, U/ ml), respiratory burst using nitroblue tetrazolium (0.55±0.01 and 0.55±0.01, U/ ml), and alternative complement pathway activities (58.29±1.01 and 58.74±0.80, U/ ml)] in L. ramada (p < 0.05). Histological evaluations of the liver and intestine indicated structural enhancements, particularly in the 60 and 80 mg/kg CoQ10 groups, suggesting potential benefits for organ health. CoQ10 supplementation did not affect the survival rate and biochemical parameters [albumin, glucose, total protein, globulin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, AST, ALT, urea, and creatinine] (p > 0.05). These findings underscore the potential of CoQ10 as a valuable dietary additive to enhance the growth and overall health of L. ramada, with recommended inclusion levels of CoQ10 falling between 60 and 80 mg/kg.

The objective of the current study was to assess the shelf-life durations and hygienic standards of chicken giblets purchased from Egyptian live poultry outlets compared to the Egyptian Standardization Organization criteria. Salmonella prevalence and antibiotic-resistance profiles were also described. On the first day, forty-five giblet samples were randomly collected and evaluated for aerobic plate count (APC), coliform, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus and Staphylococcus aureus, and multidrug-resistant Salmonella contamination rates using culturing methods, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry, and the VITEK® −2 system. Four- and five-day shelf-life durations were assessed. All chicken giblets had acceptable APC levels below the 6 log cfu/g on the collection day, but 27 % were contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, rendering them unfit. More than 2-log CFU/gm of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus contamination was identified in 64 % and 58 % of the giblets, respectively. All targeted indices surpassed maximum authorized requirements after four and five days of chilling at 4 °C, coupled with the detection of obvious greenish discoloration and off odor. All twelve Salmonella Enteritidis were vulnerable to carbapenems, cefepime, and piperacillin/tazobactam, but 83 % were multidrug-resistant (MDR), with four demonstrating extended-spectrum beta-lactam resistance. This could be the first Egyptian report identifying such a high prevalence rate of Salmonella and MDR to key antibiotics in chicken giblets. The current study encourages Egyptian authorities to reevaluate laws governing live poultry outlets to reduce the risk of disease exposure, including the National Egyptian Food Safety Authority's direct supervision over these outlets to establish a stringent safety program.

A 56-day feeding period was performed to investigate the possible impacts of dietary nano curcumin (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 ppm) on the growth, nutrient utilization, non-specific immune parameters, antioxidants in Nile tilapia under chronic low temperature (21.02 ± 0.11 °C). Fishes (n = 225; Initial weight = 4.39 ± 0.08 g/fish) were randomly stocked at 15 fish/tank for five experimental groups in triplicates. Under low-temperature circumstances, dietary curcumin in nano form showed no notable alteration in growth variable, nutrient efficiency, digestive enzymes efficiency, biometric indices, survival rates, and hematological components. Meanwhile, the serum of fishes with nano curcumin diets under low-temperature stress displayed higher total protein as well as lower glucose, cortisol, and total cholesterol compared with the control group. Moreover, fish fed nano curcumin diets displayed higher lysozyme and bactericidal activities compared to the control group and the best performance was found at dietary nano curcumin level of ≥100 ppm. Also, groups fed the basal diet demonstrated the poorest antioxidant capacity, and the best superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) existed in fish with nano curcumin diets while the best catalase (CAT) efficiency occurred at higher nano curcumin levels ≥100 ppm. In addition, higher counts of intestinal microbiota in terms of total bacterial count (TBC), total yeast and molds count (TYMC), and coliform were noticed in fish consumed the basal diet compared to groups fed on nano curcumin diets. In conclusion, incorporating nano curcumin at a level of ≥100 mg/kg diet (particularly at 150 mg/kg) improved a non-specific immune response, antioxidant, and healthier gastrointestinal microbiota in Nile tilapia under chronic low-temperature stress.

This study investigated the effects of dietary garlic powder and fermented garlic powder supplementation at 1% and 2% levels on growth performance, digestive tract efficacy, blood biochemistry, immunity, and antioxidant status of Liza ramada (n = 225 fish; 86.00 ± 0.42 g) over a 60-day period. Fish fed diets supplemented with both forms of garlic at both levels exhibited significantly improved final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed conversion ratio compared to the control group. Digestive enzyme activities (amylase, lipase, and protease) were significantly enhanced in all supplemented groups. Blood biochemical analysis revealed reduced glucose levels and increased total protein in garlic-supplemented groups, with no adverse effects on liver or kidney function markers. Immune parameters, including lysozyme activity, bactericidal activity against Streptococcus agalactiae, alternative complement pathway (ACP), and respiratory burst (NBT), were significantly enhanced in garlic-supplemented groups, with fermented garlic showing more pronounced effects. Antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, and GPx) were also significantly increased in all supplemented groups, particularly in those fed fermented garlic. No significant differences in survival rates were observed among treatments. The results suggest that both garlic powder and fermented garlic powder supplementation, especially at the 2% level, can effectively improve growth, feed utilization, immune function, and antioxidant status in L. ramada. Fermented garlic generally demonstrated superior effects, indicating its potential as a beneficial feed additive in aquaculture. Based on these findings, it is recommended to incorporate fermented garlic powder at a 2% level in L. ramada diets to optimize growth performance and health status. Further research is warranted to investigate the long-term effects and cost-effectiveness of this supplementation strategy in commercial aquaculture settings.

While chitosan is widely used in aquaculture feed, chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) offer potential advantages due to their enhanced absorption. This study investigated the safe use of CNP levels in Nile tilapia feed, evaluating its impact on growth, immunity, and disease resistance. Five experimental diets were formulated and supplemented with zero chitosan (served as a control group), 1g/kg of chitosan (CS), and 1, 3, and 5 g/kg of CNPs. Each diet was randomly assigned to three replicate groups of 45 fish per group (15 fish/tank) with an average weight of (42.10 ± 0.05g, mean ± S.E.) twice daily (09:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.) to apparent satiation for two months. At the end of the feeding trial, fish fed 5 g/ kg of CNPs had the highest growth performance. However, no significant variations (p > 0.05) in somatic index were seen between the experimental groups. All chitosan and CNP-enriched groups exhibited improved intestinal morphology compared to the control group, characterized by increased villus length and width, reduced necrosis of intestinal tips, and better overall tissue integrity, with the CNP 3g and 5g groups demonstrating the most favorable intestinal structure. The CNP-treated groups (3, 5 g/kg) had significantly higher blood indices and serum globulin. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were lower in the CNP-treated groups compared to the chitosan macromolecule group. There was a substantial rise in glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), phagocytic index, and respiratory burst activity in the 5 g/kg CNP-treated group. The dietary addition of 5 g/kg of CNPs raised mRNA expression for TLR-2, MUC-2, and IGF-1, but there was no significant difference in HSP70 expression across treatments. After the experimental challenge with Aeromonas veronii biovar sobria, the groups that received 3 and 5 g/kg of CNPs exhibited the lowest mortality rates. Overall, the results suggest that including 5g/kg of CNPs in fish food is safe and effective for enhancing their health and growth, making it a promising addition to aquaculture feed.

The present study aims to investigate the influence of zeolite usage and stocking densities on various parameters, including ammonia removal from water, accumulation of heavy metals in fish organs, water quality, growth performance, feed efficiency, muscle composition, as well as hematological and biochemical parameters in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) over a 90-day duration. A total of 2400 D. labrax with an initial weight of 9.83 ± 2.02 g and initial length of 9.37 ± 0.32 cm were distributed among 24 tanks. The research involved six distinct treatment groups, with two different zeolite levels (0 and 15 ppt) and three stocking density levels (50, 100, and 150 fish/m3), each replicated four times. The results of the research demonstrate a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) in water quality measures with the introduction of zeolite. The successful implementation of this amendment mitigated the adverse effects of fish density on water quality parameters. Higher stocking density negatively impacted European sea bass growth, feed utilization, and hemato-biochemical indicators. Zeolite use effectively alleviated these adverse effects, particularly on performance, feed utilization, hematological, and biochemical parameters. The study's results indicate that the utilization of zeolite has shown to be efficacious in mitigating the accumulation of heavy metals in both water and fish organs, while concurrently augmenting fish attributes. However, the increase in density led to a significant decrease in the accumulation of heavy metals in both water and fish organs. The present study highlights the capacity of natural zeolites to mitigate the negative consequences associated with water quality concerns. The efficiency of these zeolites in limiting the accessibility of heavy metals in polluted water is shown, hence minimizing their accumulation in fish organs. In addition, the improvement of fish performance has the capacity to have a beneficial influence on both the well-being and efficiency of fish in aquaculture. Additional research is essential to fully understand the complex molecular pathways involved in utilizing natural zeolite under different fish densities.

This trial assessed for 90 days the influences of dietary organic acids mixture (Aquagest ® OM) on the performance of Gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata; n = 360; initial weight= 9.15 ± 0.10 g). A diet without organic acids supplement was specified as control (D0), whereas another five diets were supplemented by 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, and 0.5% for diets D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5, respectively. The fish fed on the control diet [D0] and 0.5% organic acids mixture-based diet [D5] exhibited the lowest final weight [Wt.90], weight gain [Wt.G.], average daily gain [A.D.G.], specific growth rate [S.G.R.], and feed intake [F.I.], as well as the highest feed conversion ratio [F.C.R.]. In comparison, the best results were with 0.2% and 0.3% organic acids mixture-based diets [D2 and D3]. The condition factor (K) rises when the amount of organic acid mixture in the diet is increased ≥ 0.2% [D2 – D5]. At the same time, the highest hepatosomatic indices [H.S.I.] were in the D5 and D1 groups. Furthermore, the lowest values for hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cells [RBCs] were observed in fish fed a basal diet, and the highest records were in fish-fed D2 and D3 diets. The best lysozyme and phagocytic activities were in D2 and D3 groups. Regarding total bacterial count, Vibrio, and Escherichia coli, fish given a basal diet (D0) showed the highest microbiota records, while fish fed on diets fortified with organic acids exhibited lower counts. No alterations between the experimental groups in body proximate composition, white blood cells [WBCs], total proteins, alanine transaminase [ALT], aspartate transaminase [AST], albumin, urea, creatinine, and acid-fermentative bacteria counts. In conclusion, based on the polynomial regression analysis of S.G.R., F.C.R., lysozyme activity, and phagocytic activity on organic acids levels, the optimal levels of the organic acids mixture ranged from 0.18% to 0.28%.

Abstract An 8-week trial to examine the impacts of Arthrospira platensis and Chlorella vulgaris on the growth, nutrient aspects, intestinal efficacy, and antioxidants of 75 New Zealand white male rabbits (initial body weight = 665.93 ± 15.18 g). Herein the study was designed in one-way ANOVA to compare the effects of the two algae species with two levels of supplementations in the feeds of New Zealand white rabbits. The rabbits were divided into five groups (n = 15/group), where the first group was allocated as the control group (Ctrl) while the second and third groups received A. platensis at 300 or 500 mg/kg diet (Ap300 or Ap500). The fourth and fifth groups fed C. vulgaris at 300 or 500 mg/kg diet (Ch300 or Ch500). The basal diet rabbits exhibited the lowest values of weight, lipase, protease, and the highest feed conversion ratio, which improved noticeably with algae addition, particularly with Ap500, Ch300, and Ch500. All tested groups showed normal intestinal structure. Amylase potency, hematological indicators, and serum biochemistry revealed non-significant variation except for a higher serum total protein and lower total cholesterol in algal groups. The best GPx existed in groups fed algal diets, while favorable SOD and CAT efficiency occurred at the higher level of Arthrospira and both levels of Chlorella. In conclusion, incorporating Arthrospira or Chlorella in the diet of New Zealand white rabbits improved performance, nutrient utilization, intestinal efficacy, and antioxidants. Arthrospira (Ap500) and Chlorella (Ch300 or Ch500) have almost the same beneficial effect on rabbit performance.

Doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC) is a life-threatening clinical issue with limited preventive approaches, posing a substantial challenge to cancer survivors. The anthraquinone diacerein (DCN) exhibits significant anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and antioxidant actions. Its beneficial effects on DIC have yet to be clarified. Therefore, this study investigated DCN’s cardioprotective potency and its conceivable molecular targets against DIC. Twenty-eight Wister rats were assigned to CON, DOX, DCN-L/DOX, and DCN-H/DOX groups. Serum cardiac damage indices, iron assay, oxidative stress, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, apoptosis, ferritinophagy, and ferroptosis-related biomarkers were estimated. Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) DNA-binding activity and phospho-p53 immunoreactivity were assessed. DCN administration effectively ameliorated DOX-induced cardiac cytomorphological abnormalities. Additionally, DCN profoundly combated the DOX-induced labile iron pool expansion alongside its consequent lethal lipid peroxide overproduction, whereas it counteracted ferritinophagy and enhanced iron storage. Indeed, DCN valuably reinforced the cardiomyocytes’ resistance to ferroptosis, mainly by restoring the NRF2/solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) signaling axis. Furthermore, DCN abrogated the cardiac oxidative damage, inflammatory response, ER stress, and cardiomyocyte apoptosis elicited by DOX. In conclusion, for the first time, our findings validated DCN’s cardioprotective potency against DIC based on its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-ferroptotic, and anti-apoptotic imprint, chiefly mediated by the NRF2/SLC7A11/GPX4 axis. Accordingly, DCN could represent a promising therapeutic avenue for patients under DOX-dependent chemotherapy.

In aquaculture, natural and eco-friendly resources are prioritized over synthetic inputs (e.g., antibiotics), and optimizing sustainable production methods is necessary. Probiotics have been well known for various potential functions in animal performance and health when supplemented as a single or mix of strain (s) in the diet. Consuming the right probiotic blend (synergistic types) is more advantageous than using each kind individually due to combining each species' functions. The present trial aimed to examine the potential impacts of two probiotic mixtures on the performance and well-being of amberjack juveniles (5.63 ± 0.04 g; Number = 300) for a 60-day feed trial. Three experimental diets (43.5 ± 0.50% total protein and 12.55 ± 0.17% total lipid) were formulated with no probiotics supplement for the control (CD1) or with probiotics mixture supplement. Probiotic mixtures were supplemented at 2 g/kg diet for groups D2 [Bacillus amyloliquefaciens TOA5001 (BA) + Streptococcus faecalis T-110 (SF)] and D3 [Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Streptococcus faecalis T-110, Lactobacillus plantarum TO-A, Bacillus mesentericus TO-A] respectively. The analysis revealed no difference in all means of growth parameters, feed utilization, survival rate, biometric indices, whole-body composition, and blood parameters between control and probiotic-supplemented diet groups. Liver lysozyme activity, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase activity, and biological antioxidant (BAP) were significantly improved in fish fed D2 compared to CD1 (P < 0.05). The higher (P < 0.05) content of intestinal lactic acid bacteria was noted in fish group fed diet D2, with an improved intestinal histological structure such as increased villi length, cryptal depth, and goblet cells compared to those provided with CD1 and D3 diets. In conclusion, incorporating a mix of probiotic bacteria [BA+SF] at a 2 g/kg diet has remarkable effects on intestinal health, immune responses, and oxidative status of amberjack, S. dumerili, suggesting a potential probiotic candidate for this species.

Background and Aim: The majority of animal-derived food safety studies have focused on foodborne zoonotic agents; however, members of the opportunistic Enterobacteriaceae (Ops) family are increasingly implicated in foodborne and public health crises due to their robust evolution of acquiring antimicrobial resistance and biofilms, consequently require thorough characterization, particularly in the Egyptian food sector. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the distribution and prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae family members in animal-derived foods, as well as their resistance to important antimicrobials and biofilm-forming potential. Materials and Methods: A total of 274 beef, rabbit meat, chicken meat, egg, butter, and milk samples were investigated for the presence of Enterobacteriaceae. All isolated strains were first recognized using traditional microbiological techniques. Following that, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry was used to validate the Enterobacteriaceae's identity. The isolated enterobacteria strains were tested on disk diffusion and crystal violet quantitative microtiter plates to determine their antibiotic resistance and capacity to form biofilms. Results: There have been thirty isolates of Enterobacteriaceae from seven different species and four genera. Out of the three food types, Pseudomonas aeruginosa had the highest prevalence rate (4.1%). With three species, Enterobacter genera had the second-highest prevalence (3.28%) across five different food categories. In four different food types, the Klebsiella genera had the second-highest distribution and third-highest incidence (2.55%). Almost all isolates, except three Proteus mirabilis, showed prominent levels of resistance, particularly to beta-lactam antibiotics. Except for two Enterobacter cloacae and three P. mirabilis isolates, all isolates were classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR) or extensively multidrug-resistant (XDR). The multiple antibiotic resistance index (MARI) of the majority of isolates dropped between 0.273 and 0.727. The highest MARI was conferred by Klebsiella pneumoniae, at 0.727. Overall, 83.33% of the isolates had strong biofilm capacity, while only 16.67% exhibited moderate capacity. Conclusion: The MDR, XDR, and strong biofilm indicators confirmed in 83.33% of the currently tested Enterobacteriaceae from animal-derived foods suggest that, if not addressed, there may be rising risks to Egypt's economy and public health.

Plants face many biological and non-biological challenges throughout their life cycle, from seed to harvest. These challenges have recently increased due to climate changes. Strategies for confronting different types of stresses depend on the type of stress, the cultivated plant, climatic conditions, soil characteristics, water variables, cost, and management system. Chemical methods (fertilizers and pesticides) have been widely used to manage abiotic and biotic stresses, but they raise concerns about environmental contamination, toxic residues, and the development of resistant pathogens. Eco-friendly strategies have recently become one of the most important approaches to obtaining high-quality and quantitative plant-based products. Microbial inoculants, such as plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM), offer a sustainable alternative to chemical methods. PGPM can augment plant growth and nutrition, improve plant tolerance to abiotic stresses, and reduce the growth of certain pathogens. They employ a variety of mechanisms to alleviate stressors and boost plant resilience, including nutrient assimilation, production of metabolites, and activation of systemic resistance. This review aims to elucidate the impact of PGPM, with a particular focus on plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), and their mechanisms of action on plants under varying stressors, while also identifying areas for further research in both PGPB and other non-bacterial organisms.

Adding medicinal herbs to aquafeed is recommended for feasible aquaculture activity. This study tested for 90 days the effect of dietary sage (Salvia officinalis L.) on the growth performance, feed efficacy, blood indices, non-specific immunity, and intestinal microbiota of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax; n = 300 fish). Fish with an initial weight of 12 ± 0.1 g/fish were distributed in five treatments and fed sage at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 g/kg. Dietary sage at 2 g/kg diet improved the growth, feed consumption, and growth hormone secretion in European sea bass. The blood parameters in European sea bass fed on experimental diets showed normal levels for healthy fish. Significantly higher lysozyme and phagocytic activities were recorded with sage supplement at the 4 g/kg diet compared to other groups. Regarding overall bacterial count, fish given a sage-free diet (the control) showed more significant microbiota numbers, Vibrio, Escherichia coli, and acid-fermentative bacteria. Remarkably, fish fed on diets fortified with sage displayed lower records of the total bacterial count, Vibrio, and Escherichia coli than the control. Moreover, fish fed a diet enriched with high levels of sage (6 or 8 g/kg) showed increased acid-fermentative bacteria. The regression analysis showed that the optimum quantity of sage at 3.6 – 4.1 g/kg diet is recommended based on the weight gain, specific growth rate (SGR), phagocytic activity, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and lysozyme activity. In conclusion, the dietary incorporation of sage (2 – 4 g/ kg diet) enhanced growth, feed efficacy, blood indices, non-specific immune responses, and sustained healthier gut flora in European sea bass.

Background and Objectives: The most frequent cause of mortality in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients is cardiovascular disease (CVD). Inflammation, dyslipidemia, and decreased physical activity are some of the main risk factors for CVD. Siwan sand therapy is a type of traditional therapy used in Egypt to treat RA. The approach of this therapy depends on the experience of the healers. The aim of the current study was to compare the effects of three sessions of Siwan traditional therapy to five sessions on common CVD risk factors and physical function in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients (9 male and 21 female) were assigned into two groups of equal size: group (A) received three sessions of Siwan traditional therapy in the form of a sand bath. Group (B) received the same form of therapy for five days. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), lipid profile, atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), and a health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) were measured before and after treatment. Results: There was a significant increase above normal within group (A) for ESR (p = 0.001), triglycerides (TG; p = 0.015), total cholesterol (Tot-Chol; p = 0.0001), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL; p = 0.0001). However, there were no considerable differences in high-density lipoprotein (HDL; p = 0.106), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL; p = 0.213), AIP (p = 0.648), and HAQ (p = 0.875). For the second group, there were significant changes within group B only in Tot-Chol (p = 0.0001), HDL (p = 0.0001), VLDL (p = 0.0001), AIP (p = 0.008), and HAQ (p = 0.014). There was a significant difference between both groups regarding HDL (p = 0.027), LDL (p = 0.005), AIP (p = 0.029), ESR (p = 0.016), and HAQ (p = 0.036). Conclusions: For RA patients, five days of Siwan traditional therapy caused significant changes regarding inflammation, Tot-Chol, LDL, HDL, AIP, and functional activity when compared to three days of Siwan hot sand therapy.

Abstract Background Internal carotid artery high-grade stenosis is a major cause of stroke. Carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS) is a reasonable approach for treatment of certain patients. Cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) evaluated through breath holding index test can assess the outcome following CAS. Aim Evaluate changes in CVR before and after CAS. Subjects and method Thirty-two patients with 35 symptomatic internal carotid artery high-grade stenosis (> 70%) were enrolled by the mean of ultrasound screening. Breath holding index test was done using transcranial Doppler ultrasound before and after CAS. Results The study includes 32 patients (22 males and 10 females). The mean age was 61.91 ± 6.59 years. The main risk factor was hypertension (75.3%). All patients showed an increase in mean flow velocity and BHI following CAS (P 90% stenosis) showed similar improvement of CVR. Conclusion CAS improves CVR in all high grades of internal carotid artery stenosis.

This article deals with one of ushabtis which dates back to the Late Period, it was found in Sudan. This paper investigates and studies ushabti of the King Senkamanisken, a king of the kingdom of Kusch who reigned after the Twenty fifth Dynasty. His tomb in Nuri contained many of the different types of ushabtis.

Poultry coccidiosis is a costly intestinal disease that leads to considerable tissue damage, inefficient nutrient absorption, increased mortality, and predisposition to secondary infections. This study evaluated the effects of a direct feed microbial (DFM) dietary additive on performance, intestinal morphology, and immune response of broilers during a mixed coccidiosis challenge. In total, 840 Cobb500 male broilers were randomly allocated to 3 treatments (7 replicates, 40 birds/pen) including negative control (NC) fed basal diet; positive control (PC) fed basal diet with coccidiosis challenge; and DFM supplemented diet, with coccidiosis challenge. At 15 days of age, all birds except for the NC treatment were orally gavaged with live oocysts of a commercial vaccine. On d 21 (6 days post challenge), 4 birds/pen were randomly selected and euthanized for scoring of coccidia-caused lesions in the duodenum, jejunum, and ceca. Body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded on d 7, 14, 28, and 42. Jejunal and ileal tissue samples were taken for histomorphological assessment from 2 birds/pen on d 21. Ileal samples were also taken for mRNA expression analysis on d 14 and d 21. The DFM birds had significantly greater BWG than PC birds during d 0–21 (P < 0.05). No differences were observed among the treatment groups in terms of FI and FCR. Dietary DFM supplementation significantly reduced lesion scores in the duodenum and jejunum when compared with PC group (P < 0.05). The coccidia challenge significantly reduced (P < 0.05) ileal villus height when compared to the non-challenged group on d 21. Conversely, dietary DFM supplementation alleviated the negative effects of coccidiosis by increasing ileal villus area on d 21 (P < 0.05). The challenged birds had significantly greater expression of IFN-γ and IL-1β in the ileum on d 21. Based on these findings, dietary DFM supplementation may help restore broiler performance during the starter and early grower periods during coccidiosis, likely by maintaining gut integrity via improving intestinal morphology and also by reducing disease severity as manifested by lower lesion scores.

The title was found on some vessels recovered from the pyramid of Djoser, followed byMrrw(Merrew) the name of an unknown employee. This title is one of the mysterious and unclear titles. Researchers have offered various readings of this title (rmnzx?;zx a(w)?;zxXrt-a?), thus giving different meanings. The paper aims at identifying this employee through determining the most correct and closest reading of this title, deciding the time of its emergence, defining its meaning.

Introduction: Cytokeratin fragment 21.1 (CYFRA 21.1) assay detects a serum fragment of cytokeratin 19 (CK19) and is employed in the diagnosis and management of lung cancer, particularly of squamous cell histotype. Breast carcinoma has been demonstrated to express CK19 fragments in the primary and metastatic lesions and CK19 mRNA is detectable in peripheral blood from patients affected by breast cancer. Aim of the work: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical significance of serum CYFRA21-1 in patients with breast cancer by analyzing the correlation between serum CYFRA21-1 titers, clinicopathological factors and prognosis in comparison with serum CA15.3 and CEA tested in the same samples. Subjects and methods: This study included 60 breast cancer patients and 25 healthy females as control group. Three blood samples were drawn from each patient, before surgery, two weeks after surgery and after 6 cycles of chemotherapy. One blood sample was drawn from each subject of control group. Serum was separated and kept frozen till used for estimation of CYFRA21-1 by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and serum CA15.3 and CEA by immunoradiometric assay (IRMA). Results: Serum CYFRA21-1 was highly elevated in breast cancer patients than in controls and was significantly associated with tumor size, clinical stage and axillary lymph node involvement. Serum CYFRA21-1 was superior to CA15.3 and CEA as a diagnostic marker for breast cancer using ROC curve analysis. Higher levels of serum CYFRA21-1 and CA15.3 were significantly associated with poor prognosis in primary breast cancer patients. Conclusions: The measurement of serum CYFRA 21-1 in breast cancer patients may be useful for detecting disease relapse and for assessing surgical and chemotherapeutic efficacy. Further prospective studies using greater number of patients are required to confirm our findings.

This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) prepared from leaf extract of Petroselinum crispum compared to those prepared using a chemical method in lead-acetate-induced anemic rats. Twenty rats were divided into four groups (five rats each). Throughout the experimental period (8 weeks), the rats in group 1 were not given any therapy. The rats in groups 2, 3 and 4 were given 400 ppm lead acetate orally for 2 weeks to make them anemic. Following that, these rats were either left untreated, given 27 ppm of chemical IONPs orally or given 27 ppm of natural IONPs orally for the remaining 6 weeks of the experiment. TEM analysis indicated that the chemically and naturally prepared IONPs had sizes of 6.22–9.7 and 64–68 nm, respectively. Serum ferritin and iron concentrations were reduced, whereas the total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), ALT, AST, urea and creatinine were significantly increased in the non-treated lead-acetate-induced anemic rats compared to those of the control. In addition, congestion, hemorrhage, necrosis, vacuolation and leukocytic infiltration in the kidneys, liver and spleen were observed in non-treated lead-acetate-induced anemic rats compared to the control. The effects of lead acetate were mitigated by IONPs, particularly the natural one. In conclusion, IONPs produced from Petroselinum crispum leaf extract can be used as an efficient and safe therapy in lead-acetate-induced anemic rats.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of four combinations of dietary linseed oil and lysine mixtures on performance, fatty and amino acid profiles, oxidative stress biomarkers, cell energy and meat quality parameters of broiler chickens. One hundred and sixty broiler chicks were allocated into four groups. Birds of groups 1–4 were fed diets containing optimum lysine and 2% of linseed oil, optimum lysine and 4% of linseed oil, high lysine and 2% of linseed oil, and high lysine and 4% of linseed oil, respectively, for a period of 35 days. High linseed oil or lysine levels did not affect the performance of the tested birds, but the high level of dietary linseed oil decreased the concentrations of muscles’ saturated fatty acids (SFA). The highest values of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty (ω-3 PUFA) and arachidonic acids with lowest levels of monounsaturated fatty (MUFA) were detected in the muscles of birds fed diets containing high linseed oils and/or lysine levels. High linseed oil or lysine levels provided the best essential amino acid profile and improved antioxidant components as well as cell energy, and tenderness and redness of the meat. Conclusively, high dietary lysine and linseed oil combinations improved the nutritional value, antioxidant status and cell energy of broiler chickens’ meat.

This study investigated the effects of a yeast-derived β-glucan (Auxoferm YGT) supplementation on mRNA expression of immune response genes in the spleen, thymus, and bursa of broiler chickens during a mixed Eimeria infection. Day (d)-old chicks (n = 1440) were fed diets containing 0% or 0.1% YGT. On d 8 post-hatch, half the replicate pens (n = 8) were challenged with a mixed inoculum of E. acervulina, E. maxima, and E. tenella. On d 10 and d 14 post-hatch, the spleen, thymus, and bursa were collected to evaluate mRNA abundance by quantitative real-time PCR. Data were analyzed using PROC GLIMMIX model (2-way interaction) and differences were established by LS-MEANS with significance reported at p ≤ 0.05. In spleen tissues at d 10, expression of interleukin (IL)-10 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were elevated in both 0.1% YGT-fed challenged and non-challenged birds. In thymus tissues at d 14, expression of IL-10, IL-17F, interferon (IFN)-γ, iNOS, and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) were elevated in challenged birds fed 0.1% YGT. In bursal tissues at d 10 and d 14, expression of IL-10, IFN-γ, iNOS (d 10 only), and MIF were elevated in 0.1% YGT-fed challenged and non-challenged birds. Dietary β-glucan supplementation to chicken diets modulated their immune response to the Eimeria challenge.

Necrotic enteritis, caused by Clostridium perfringens, is an enteric disease that leads to poor performance and increased mortality, resulting in significant economic losses in poultry production. This study evaluated the effects of a proprietary prebiotic, probiotic, and plant extract blend on performance of broilers during coccidiosis challenge leading to necrotic enteritis (NE). In total, 744 Cobb500 male broilers were randomly allocated to 3 treatments (8 replicates, 31 birds/pen) including, the negative control (NC) fed a basal diet; the positive control (PC) fed a basal diet with Virginiamycin; and the additive group fed basal diet with a blend of prebiotic, probiotic, and plant extract (BSN). A unique, naturally occurring NE model developed to mimic field conditions was implemented to challenge the birds. This model consists of spraying a concentrated commercial coccidiosis vaccine on litter and feed upon bird placement, which, in conjunction with the presence of C. perfringens spores in the environment, leads to the development of a NE outbreak one week post vaccine application. At the onset of NE on d7, three birds/pen were selected for scoring NE lesions. Body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded on days 7, 14, 28, and 42. Carcass composition was assessed by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) analysis on day 42. Dietary supplementation of BSN significantly (p < 0.05) improved FCR during starter and grower periods. Dietary treatments had no effect on NE lesions in the small intestine. DXA analysis revealed slightly higher lean content in BSN birds compared to NC. These results showed that dietary supplementation of the BSN blend significantly improved broilers performance during the early NE challenge phase, as well as in the grower period.

Wound cleansing remains a corner stone in the management of diabetic foot ulcer. Hydrogen Peroxide (H[subscript 2]O[subscript 2]) and Povidone Iodine are topical antimicrobial agents but known to be toxic to cells involved in the wound healing cascade. The biggest challenge for the physicians and nurses is searching for a safe, noncytotoxic and effective wound cleansing as Hypochlorous acid (HOCL). This study aimed to compare the efficacy of HOCL versus H[subscript 2]O[subscript 2] followed by Povidine Iodine as a wound care agent in treating infected diabetic foot ulcers. Patients and methods: Design: used a randomized clinical trial design to compare the efficacy of HOCL versus H[subscript 2]O[subscript 2] followed by Povidine Iodine as a wound care agent in treating infected diabetic foot ulcers. Setting: This study was carried out in outpatient plastic and vascular surgery clinic at Assiut university Hospital. Subjects: A random selection was performed on 60 patients with infected diabetic foot ulcers divided equally to control and study group. Methods: HOCL was used for the study group, as irrigate the wound with HOCL in a concentration; sterile Nacl 0.9% to HOCL 50.5% at ratio 8:2 and leave for 5 minutes, before covered the wound with sterile dressing. While H[subscript 2]O[subscript 2] followed by Povidine Iodine used for the control group and the results were compared. Bacterial cultures were obtained before start washing, after five days thin each five days to the end of the study for the two groups. Results: HOCL was able to be effective against Candida, Proteus, Klebsella, Psudomonas, and Methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus (MARSA) compare to H2O2 and Povidine iodine. There is a statistically significant difference between using HOCL and H2O2 and Povidine iodine as a washing therapy in reducing bacterial count, wound pain, odor, discharge and improve wound healing in diabetic foot ulcer. Conclusion: Hypochlorous acid is a potent antimicrobial cleanser against a wide range of microorganisms. Hypochlorous Acid is safe, low cost, painless, easy to perform, and improve wound healing or rapidly prepared diabetic foot ulcer for skin flap or graft. Recommendation: The study recommended use of HOCL as a virtuous diabetic wound care cleanser. Further research is needed on a larger scale to validate the effectiveness of Hypochlorous acid as a wound care agent in septic diabetic foot ulcers.