Diversity of bacteria nesting the plant cover of north Sinai deserts, Egypt

North Sinai deserts were surveyed for the predominant plant cover and for the culturable bacteria nesting their roots and shoots. Among 43 plant species reported, 13 are perennial [e.g. Fagonia spp., Pancratium spp.] and 30 annuals [e.g. Bromus spp., Erodium spp.]. Eleven species pos-sessed rhizo-sheath, e.g. Cyperus capitatus, Panicum turgidum and Trisetaria koelerioides. Microbiological analyses demonstrated: the great diversity and richness of associated culturable - bacteria, in particular nitrogen-fixing bacteria [diazotrophs]; the majority of bacterial residents were of true and/or putative diazotrophic nature; the bacterial populations followed an increasing density gradient towards the root surfaces; sizeable populations were able to reside inside the root [endorhizosphere] and shoot [endophyllosphere] tissues. Three hundred bacterial isolates were secured from studied spheres. The majority of nitrogen-fixing bacilli isolates belonged to Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus pumilus, Bacillus polymexa, Bacillus macerans, Bacillus circulans and Bacillus licheniformis. The family Enterobacteriaceae represented by Enterobacter agglomerans, Enterobacter sackazakii, Enterobacter cloacae, Serratia adorifera, Serratia liquefaciens and Klebsiella oxytoca. The non-Enterobacteriaceae population was rich in Pantoae spp., Agrobacterium rdiobacter, Pseudomonas vesicularis, Pseudomonas putida, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Ochrobactrum anthropi, Sphingomonas paucimobilis and Chrysemonas luteola. Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus were reported inside root and shoot tissues of a number of tested plants. The dense bacterial populations reported speak well to the very possible significant role played by the endophytic bacterial po-pulations in the survival, in respect of nutrition and health, of existing plants. Such groups of diazotrophs are good candidates, as biopreparates, to support the growth of future field crops grown in deserts of north Sinai and irrigated by the water of El-Salam,canal

crude plant juices of desert plants as appropriate culture media for the cultivation of rhizospheric microorganisms

The exclusive use of plant juices, not as a mere supplement to synthetic culture media, for culturing rhizospheric microorganisms [RMO] is introduced here. Juices were prepared from desert [Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L., Zygophyllum album L., Carpobrotus edulis L.] as well as cultivated [Trifolium alexandrinum L., Beta vulgaris L.] plants. Colonies of RMO [Azospirillum brasilense, Enter obacter agglomerans and Klebsiella pneumoniae] nicely developed on surface-inoculated agar plates prepared from crude and diluted juice of M. crystallinum [ice plant]. Furthermore, hundreds of RMO colonies developed on various standard culture media were replicated [> 90%] on agar plates of different plant juices. RMO cells grew nicely in liquid ice plant juice, with doubling times comparable to those grown in the reference culture medium. RMO populations resident in various host plants were able to develop on culture media prepared from homologous and heterologous juices. The application of a thin semi-solid overlay agar on the surfaces of inoculated agar plates significantly increased the recovery of micro-colonies on agar plates, particularly those prepared from plant juices

Nosocomial infections and fever of unknown origin in pediatric hematology/oncology unit: a retrospective annual study

Pediatric hematology / oncology patients are faced with an increased risk of nosocomial infections [NIs] that vary in different populations and different institutes with considerable morbidity and mortality. Our aims were to assess the frequency and patterns of NIs in this group of patients relation to the risk of neutropenia and to determine the prevalence of causative organisms and their antimicrobial sensitivities. A retrospective analysis of the data for all children admitted to pediatric hematoloy/oncology unit of Mansoura University, Egypt, was done over one year from January, 2007 to January, 2008. A total of 1564 patients were included [173 children with leukemia, 39 with lymphoma, 49 with other solid tumors, 1293 with thalassemia and 10 withaplastic anemia] corresponding to 2084 admissions and 27092 inpatient days. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria were used as standard definition for NI. The overall incidence density rates of NIs in all patients and neutropenic patients were 8.6 and 25.3 per 1000 patient-days respectively. The most frequent sites of microbiologically and or clinically documented NIs were blood stream [42.7%], respiratory [25.3%], Urinary [22.2%] and CNS infections [9.8%] whereas nosocomial fever of unknown origin [nFUO] constituted 52.9% of defined cases with incidence density rates of 9.7 and 15.4 per 1000 patient-days in, all patients and neutropenic patients respectively. The frequency of NIs and nFUO were significantly higher during neutropenic days [p<0.001]. Gram-positive organisms represented 64.5% of isolated pathogens [Staphylococci 71.5%, Streptococci 16%, Pneamococci 7% and Enterococci 5.5%], gram-negative organisms represented 30% [E coli 48.6%, Klebsiella 15.7%, and Pseudomonas 35.7%], and Candida 5.5%. Positive cultures were more frequent in summer months [July to September]. The antimicrobial susceptibilities of the isolated organisms were relatively low [cefoperazone/sulbactam 49.9%, amikacin 35.9%, imipenem/cilastatin 34.4%, cefoperazone 33.6% and vancomycin 36.5%]. Blood stream infection and fever of unknown origin are the most common nosocomial infections in pediatric hematology / oncology patients with a higher risk during neutropenic days. Isolated organisms are multi-drug resistant, predominantly gram-positive pathogens

Impact of parvovirus B19 infection in pediatric oncology patients

Oncology patients are at particular risk for parvovirus B19 infection that may cause severe, persistent usually non specific illness in this group. This study was designed to assess the prevalence and impact of parvovirus B19 in pediatric oncology patients receiving chemotherapy and to define the optimal diagnostic tests in such patients. Fifty nine children under chemotherapy [39 with ALL, 20 with solid tumors] with mean ages of 4.96 +/- 1.94 years, in addition to 30 healthy children of matched age and sex, were enrolled in this study. Clinical and laboratory data were collected by examination and from patients' records. Specific parvovirus IgM, and IgG B19 antibodies were assessed by Elisa and parvovirus DNA was detected by nested PCR for all patients and controls. Parvovirus DNA was detected in 16 [27.1%], IgM in 3 [5.1%] and IgG in 36 [61%] patients. IgM had sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 18.75%, 100% and 77.9% respectively, while those of IgG were 81.25, 53.4%, 61% respectively. PCR positive patients had significantly higher frequency of unexplained anaemia, blood transfusions and longer hospital stay than PCR negative patients [P<0.001]. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that both unexplained anaemia and multiple blood transfusions were the most important variables that can predict PCR positivity. Parvovirus B19 is not uncommon problem in pediatric oncology patients that exhibited weak antibody response and non specific clinical features. Screening of these patients with PCR rather than serology is recommended when infection is suspected

surface ultrastructure of the Egyptian liver fluke Fasciola gigantica

Scanning electron microscopy [SEM] of adult Fasciola gigantica, a known liver fluke in Egypt, shows the presence of tegumental spines and folds giving the appearance of a rough surface. The spines are small and closely-spaced anteriorly, increasing in size and number on the in the mid-lateral aspect of the ventral surface. Towards the posterior end the spines progressively decrease in both size and number. Tegumental transverse folds or invaginations are interspaced between the spines. There are two types of sensory papillae on the tegumental surface. The dorsal surface exhibits similar features but the spines and papillae are less numerous with less extensive surface folds than on the ventral surface of the body. The oral and ventral suckers, together with the excretory pore, appear spineless, bearing ciliate sensory papillae. Further studies should be directed at deciphering the genetic codes and the synthesis of some of these antigens by recombinant DNA technology to be used in serodiagnosis, vaccination and for drug receptors

Intestinal permeability in hymenolepis nana as reflected by non invasive lactulose/ mannitol dual permeability test and its impaction on nutritional parameters of patients

Assessment of Hymenolepis nana infection among 102 children and adults of both sexes [5-16 years] residing 2 Welfare Institutes [Giza and Cairo] showed a prevalence of 22.33%. The effect of H. nana on intestinal permeability and on nutritional parameters of patients was studied. A total of 46 subjects were divided into 2 groups: GI [20 H. nana patients] and GII [26 parasite-free control]. Both groups were subjected to lactulose/mannitol dual permeability test, anthropometric study, estimation of vitamin B12 and folate levels in plasma and estimation of haemoglobin [HB]%, RBCs and WBCs counts and haematocrite value [HCT%] for anaemia. The H. nana patients showed significant higher percent [P=0.04] of altered intestinal permeability versus controls denoting intestinal leakage, significant means lower levels of vitamin B12 [P=0.01] and folate [P <0.04] in blood plasma versus control denoting liability to vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies. Means value of HB%, RBC and WBC counts and HCT% showed generalized decrease but without significant difference in H. nana patients and control denoting anaemia liability. The percent of stunting [HAZ

Risk factors contributing to fascioliasis endemicity in a focus in Dakahlia governorate 1- human host

Zoonotic fascioliasis is a problem not only in Dakahlia Governorate, but also in other Egyptian Governorates. Two hundreds and twenty patients randomly selected with suggesting manifestations were examined for fascioliasis. A total of 23 [10.4%] were positive by Kato thick smears, of which 21 were from Kafr El-Hessah and two from Oweish El-Hager. The proven human fascioliasis was examined for anti -Fasciola antibodies by IHAT and ELISA [Fhes], haemoglobin level, eosinophils percent, serum bilirubin and liver function tests. IHAT gave 82.61% positive results [19/23], and ELISA gave 100% positive results [23/23]. The clinical signs ranged between splenomegaly and ascitis in 4.34% for each up to hepatomegaly in 73.91% and mild fever in 78.26% but 2 cases were asymptomatic. Mild eosinophilia and moderate anaemia were recorded with means of 11 +/- 5.8 and 10 +/- 1.3 respectively. Mean serum bilirubin was not elevated [0.91 +/- 0.51 gm/dl]. Liver function tests [AST within normal range in all cases; <40 unit /ml but one patient had ALT above normal; >45 unit/ml]

Evaluating children with specific language impairment using mismatch negativity

The Mismatch Negativity [MMN] is an automatic cortical evoked potential that provides a tool for studying central auditory processing mechanisms involved in the perception of simple acoustic stimuli and of speech sounds. Because it does not require the subjects' attention to the stimuli it was used in this study in assessing 20 children with specific language impairment [SLI], who are expected to suffer from attentional problems as well. Their results were compared to those obtained from 20 children with normal language development in a trial to explore any underlying central auditory processing disorders in SLI children. The results revealed that children with SLI had significantly higher values of waveform latency and amplitude values that age matched children with normal languge development. However, there was no significant relation between the findings and the amplitude of language deficit. The effect of age on MMN results in both normal and SLI children is evaluted and discussed in this study

Effect of tinuvin 770 [a light stabilizer] on ventricular cardiomyocytes of albino rats and possible protective role of lycopene. toxicological and histological study

Tinuvin 770 is a substance used as an ultraviolet light and radiation stabilizer employed universally in the manufacture of plastic materials. It has recently been suggested to possibly cause cardiovascular manifestations. Lycopene is a potent antioxidant carotenoid without provitamin A activity. It is present in many fruits and vegetables; however, tomatoes and processed tomato products constitute its major sources. Lycopene has recently gained great attention for its protective effect against several pathological disorders, particularly coronary heart diseases [CHDs]. This work aimed at evaluating the potential toxic effects of tinuvin 770 on rat myocardium, as well as the possible cardioprotective role of pre-and concomitant lycopene administration, both histologically and biochemically. 50 adult male rats were divided among 5 equal groups. Group I served as a control group. Group II received lycopene orally [4.6 mg/ kg b.w/ day] for 9 weeks. Group III received tinuvin 770 [lmg/ kg b.w] intraperitoneally 3 times a week for 5 weeks. Group IV received lycopene simultaneously with tinuvin for 5 weeks. Group V received lycopene 4 weeks prior to and concurrent with tinuvin 770 for another 5 weeks. The last urine samples and myocardial specimens were collected at the end of the experiment for estimation of norepinephrine levels and histological examination of the ventricular cardiomyocytes respectively. Tinuvin 770 evoked marked increase in norepinephrine urine levels and evident myocardial lesions in group III rats included waviness, myocytolysis and focal hypereosinophilia of the muscle fibers. Ultrastructurally, evident alterations of the myofibrils, mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum and intercalated discs were revealed. On simultaneous lycopene and tinuvin administration [group IV], mild amelioration of the myocardial lesions was depicted, whereas prior treatment with lycopene [group V] resulted in considerable myocardial protection. Tinuvin 770 might be considered as a cardiotoxic agent, and lycopene is especially beneficial in ameliorating its effects

[Isolation and identification of bovine ephemeral fever virus from cattle in middle Egypt]

During 2000-2001 outbreaks of bovine ephemeral ever BEF occurred at Middle Egypt, 251 hepa-I rmzicd blood samples from cattle and buffaloes ah BEF symptoms were collected for virus iso-1011 and identification and 549 serum samples re collected for serological examination. Suck-g baby mice were intracerbrally [I/C] inocula-for virus isolation and identification, in the me lime isolated virus was adapted to grow in Vero and BKH[2] cell line. Identification isolated virus was achieved using both refer-lee and prepared hyper immune serum against:F virus in rabbit by using SPA agglutination est [SPA], Serum neutralization test [SNT], Mouse protection test [ MPT] and Agar gel precipitation test [AGFT]

[Preparation of inactivated bovine ephemeral fever virus vaccine [BEF] from locally isolated strain using different ad juvant]

Inactivated tissue culture BEF virus vaccine was prepared from the 8th passage from a locally isolated BEF virus from native breed cattle during BEF outbreak in 2000 in Middle Egypt. The virus was inactivated using Binary ethylene amine [BEI] at concentration of 1% for 3.5 hours. The adjuvant contained mixture of Negilla Sativa oil, mineral oil and vitamin E and selenium with different ratio in tow different formula [A-vaccine ind B-vaccine]. The prepared vaccines were char-icterized using different techniques including, the irop test, emulsion stability and viscosity. In ad-fition its provide to:be sterile and safe. These vac-aes were compared with aluminum hydroxide fl inactive BEF virus vaccine. B-vaccine induce mime response in vaccinated cattle more than vaccine and aluminum hydroxide gel BEF vac-i, while control non-vaccinated groups did not pop any immune response against BEF virus when measure by SPA, VNT, and ELISA. Exposure of vaccinated cattle to natural infection with BEF virus revealed no clinical signs of BEF syndrome, while control non-vaccineted cattle groups developed clinical manifestation of BEF syndrome

serological gastric biopsy: a non-endoscopical/histopathologic diagnostic approach in management of the dyspeptic patients

Objective: To assess the sensitivity, specificity and the predictive value of a 'gastropanel' blood test, including serum pepsinogen I [S-PGI] and amidated gastrin-17 [S-G-17] in the diagnosis of atrophic gastritis most probably due to helicobacter pylon [Hp] and to compare the results of serology with the endoscopic/histopathologic findings as a gold standard diagnostic tool

Subjects and Methods: This study comprised 86 dyspeptic outpatients who underwent a diagnostic gastroscopy with multiple biopsies from the antrum and corpus for histopathologic examination. Histopathologically, the series of cases included 46 patients diagnosed as having atrophic gastritis. Twenty five had an antral atrophy, 6 had corpus atrophy and 15 patients had an atrophic gastritis in both the antrum and corpus [multi local atrophic gastritis] MAG. The remaining 40 cases were considered as controls, 32 had a non-atrophic gastritis [NAG] and both the antrum and corpus were normal and healthy in 8 subjects. The fasting levels of S-PGI and antibodies to Hp lgG-antibodies [S-UpAb] and postprandial amidated S-G-17 [S-G-17prand] were measured 20 min after a protein-rich drink and were determined using enzyme immunoassay [EIA] methods. The serologic and morphologic results were compared with estimating the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive [PPV and NPV] and accuracy values of the tests [S-G-17 and S-PGI]

Results: Mean values of both S-G-17prand and S-PGI decreased with increasing grade of antral and corpus atrophy, respectively. A low S-PGI [<25 microg/I] was found in 4 of 6 patients with corpus atrophy [66.70%] and in 5 of 32 [15.62%] patients with NAG in the biopsy specimens. A low S-G-17prand [<5 pmol/l] was found in 13 patients with Hp-associated antral atrophy and in 5 of 32 [15.62%] patients with NAG. The diagnosis of gastritis obtained with the blood test panel is in good agreement with the endoscopic and biopsy findings: 92% of the patients went into same gastritis categories with both the panel and endoscopic/histopathologic findings. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy values of the blood test panel [S-G-17prand and S-PGI] in delineation of patients with atrophic gastritis [either in the antrum or the corpus, or both] versus NAG and normal stomach were 87.5%, 82.60%, 8 1.40%, 88.40% and 85%, respectively

Conclusion: Low levels of S-G-17prand and S-PGI are conceivable biomarkers of atrophic gastritis. The serologic method gave a reasonable sensitivity, specificity, PPV. NPV and accuracy values in the diagnosis of atrophic gastritis. So, it may be offered as the screening tool for atrophic gastritis

Evaluation of head injured patients: comparison of clinical, CT scanning and neurobiochemical markers as predictors of outcome

To investigate the predictive value of the initial serum level of NSE and S-100B compared with the GCS score and cranial CT scan in the prediction of outcome in cases of head injury. Thirty patients with different grades of traumatic head injury were enrolled in this study after taking an informed consent. Data obtained on admission included age, sex and GCS. In addition, cranial CT was done and serum samples were taken from each patient for determination of NSE and S-100B levels. GOS was obtained at the time of patients' discharge. The mean age of head injured patients was 26.70 +/- 10.96 years. Males constituted 66.7% of the cases. It was found that initial GCS score was significantly correlated with GOS with a sensitivity of 85.71%, a specificity of 95.65% and overall accuracy of 93.33%. A significant correlation was also found between CT findings and GOS and the predictive value of CT findings was found to be of 100% sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy. Post-traumatic serum concentrations of S-100B and NSE were found to be significantly higher in patients with poor outcome compared to those with good outcome, and a significant negative correlation was found between these levels and the GOS. The overall accuracy for the S-100B and NSE were 90.0% and 96.67%, respectively. Clinical interpretation of outcome in traumatic head injury is not a reliable method. CT scanning and neurobiochemical markers, especially NSE, are better predictors

Histological study on the toxic effect of 2-bromopropane on the seminiferous tubules of adult male albino rats

2-Bromopropane [2-BP] is a haloalkane used in industry as an alternative to ozone layer depleting solvents. It has recently been suspected to be a causative agent for some reproductive dysfunctions in both male and female workers exposed to it in electronic factories. The study was carried out to evaluate the possible toxic effects of 2-BP administration on the seminiferous tubules [S. Ts] of rat testis, and its potential reversibility after 2-BP withdrawal. The study was conducted on 30 adult male albino rats weighing from 100-150g each. They were categorized into 3 equal groups. Group I: served as a control group. Group II: rats received daily subcutaneous injection of 2-BP [400 mg/kg b.w.] for 28 days. Group III: rats received 2-BP in the same dose and for the same duration as group II followed by a further 28-day recovery period. At the end of experiment, blood samples were collected to detect testosterone levels, and the rat testes were weighed and examined for the daily sperm production. Specimens were taken from the testes of all animals and subjected to both light and electron microscopic examinations. 2-BP administration [in group II] significantly decreased absolute testicular weight and daily sperm production as well as serum testosterone levels. Histologically, atrophy of the S.Ts accompanied by interstitial oedema was evident. Moderate to severe degenerative changes involving all types of spermatogenic cells, including spermatogonia, were also demonstrated. Furthermore, Leydig cells depicted ultrastructural evidence of decreased activity. After a 4-week recovery period [group III], mild increase in serum testosterone levels as well as other laboratory parameters were noticed. However, they were still much less as compared to the control. Histologically, only limited amelioration of the testicular lesions in the germinal epithelium as well as Leydig cells was revealed. Such persistent lesions were attributed to the damaging effect of 2-BP on testicular stem cells; spermatogonia. The study demonstrates vulnerability of the testicular tissue to 2-BP intoxication. Therefore, careful consumption of 2-BP containing solvents and pharmaceuticals is necessary

Risk and preventative measures for postoperative acute renal failure [ARF]: a prospective controlled study

The extracorporeal circulation used during open heart surgery is associated with a significant decline in renal blood flow that can result in tubular injury. Although this complication is uncommon, it carries a poor prognosis. Although many experimental trials have highlighted the significant value of some pharmaceuticals in prevention of post ischaemic renal tubular injuries, few clinical trials are found. We aimed in this study to evaluate the efficacy of 4 drugs in the prevention of acute tubular necrosis [ATN] following open heart surgery. Patients received either diltiazem, captopreil, allopurinol or the antioxidant formula antox [n = 20 per agent], 20 control cases received placebo. Groups were matched in age, gender, type of cardiac disease, preoperative cardiac and kidney function and type of surgery. AII patients received the appointed agent for 1- week pre- and post- operative. Each group included 6 cases that underwent coronary bypass, 8 value replacements or repair and 6 total correction of congenital defects. In order to ascertain risk factors each case underwent a comprehensive history taking, clinical examination, 12 lead ECG, chest X-ray, echocardiography, arterial blood gas analysis, complete blood count, fasting and 2 hours post prandial [PP] blood sugar, coagulation profile, liver function tests, blood urea nitrogen [BUN], serum creatinine [Sc], creatinine clearance [CC], urine analysis and urine albumin/creatinine ratio [Alb/cr]. The total operation, total pump and ischaemic times were recorded for each case intra-operative as well as the use of any inotropes, vasopressors or diuretics and the occurrence of haematuria or haemoglobinuria. AII kidney function tests were repeated on the 1st, 4th and 7th post operative days. AII groups showed a postoperative significant increase in BUN, Sc, and Alb/cr and a significant decrease in CC; these changes were least with diltiazem. A highly significant correlation between preoperative Alb/cr and postoperative Sc was found for the population as whole [p<0.001]. ATN occurred only in coronary artery bypass graft, aortic valve, multiple valve and total correction of Fallot's IV patients. The incidence of ATN, duration of oliguria and need for dialysis were least with diltiazem, [P=0.05]. No single mortality was reported in either the diltiazem or allopurinol groups. In conclusion, prophylactic administration of diltiazem, to high risk patients help reduce mortality, incidence and duration of ATN, the need for dialysis and costs of hospital stay, Allopurinol is a good alternative in patients with poor left ventricular function

Hypersensitivity to house dust mite and storage mite in relation to the clinical picture of scabies

In this study, 50 patients with the typical clinical picture of scabies were subjected to direct parasitological examination to detect sarcoptes scabiei and to estimate their skin reactivity to antigens of house dust mite [HDM], Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus [DP] and storage mite [SM] Tyrophagus putrescentia [TP]. Intradermal skin prick test [SPT] by the mentioned antigens showed highly significant positive results in patients when compared with the normal subjects. The rate of successful treatment to eradicate scabies was significantly higher among cases who had weak and negative skin reaction to DP and TP in comparison with that of cases with strongly positive SPT reaction to the same antigens

Endoscopic laser arytenoidectomy with ipsilateral posterior cordectomy for the treatment of bilateral vocal cord paralysis

Thirteen patients bilateral vocal cord paralysis were managed by CO2 surgical laser. The arytenoid cartlage was vaporized down to the cricoid cartilage, and then a 3.5 to mm C shaped wedge of the posterior vocal cord was excised extending 4 mm laterally from the free border of the vocal cord. Upper airway obstruction was successfully relieved in eleven patients. The excision was repeated in two patients on whom tracheostomy was performed increasing the excised part of the cord. Voice quality continues to improve for 6 months to a year postoperatively. Endoscopic laser arytenoidectomy with ipsilateral cordectomy is a reliable technique in relieving airway obstruction and the preservation of good voci quality in the treatment of bilateral vocal cord paralysis

Prevalence of antibodies to HCV in Egypt: a survey of 5221 apparently healthy individuals

Five thousand two hundred and twenty-one apparently normal healthy individuals aged 16-73 years were tested for anti-HCV by recombinant 2nd generation enzyme linked immune sorbent assay [ELISA] and for HBs Ag by ELISA. Confirmatory test to HCV using polymerase chain reaction [PCR] was done in 116 anti-HCV +ve individuals. Of the study group, 301 individuals were tested for previous exposure to schistosomiasis by testing for anti- schistosomal antibodies using indirect hemagglutination test. The prevalence of anti-HCV was 28.5% and was higher in male sex [29.4%] compared with females [14.5%], villagers [33%] compared with medical staff [23.4%] in Giza [35.7%] compared with Cairo [17.1%] and in the age group 40-50 years [41.6%]. It was also higher though not significantly so in relation to operations and previous blood transfusions. HBs antigenemia did not correlate positively with anti-HCV, however, schistosomal antibodies showed a significant positive correlation

Effect of adding some legume flours on the nutritive value of cookies

Soybean flour [S F], chick peas flour [C F], and lupins flour [L F] were used to replace 0, 5, 10 and 15% of wheat flour in cookies. The effect of supplementation of wheat flour with these legume flours on the nutritional quality was studied. Results indicated that protein, ash and fiber contents as well as moisture content of supplemented cookies were higher than the control. Total protein content was increased by about 1,5% with each increment of [S F], while it was 1% with each increment of [L F] and 0.7% with each increment of [C F]. On the other hand mineral contents was higher in legume flours than in wheat flour, hence, cookies supplemented with legume flours were favorable than unsupplemented ones probably due to higher amounts of important minerals they contained. The amino acid patterns were improved due to supplementation. At 15% level of addition from SF, CF or LF, lysine content increased up to 2.71, 2.55 and 2.27 gm/16 gm N compared with unsupplemented cookies increased as compared with the unsupplemented ones, due to the improvement in lysine and other essential amino acids except sulfur-containing amino acids. Consequently, both PER and BV of the supplemented cookies improved compared with unsupplemented ones