Efficacy of current vaccines against recently isolated foot and mouth disease virus type A South America (Venezuela) in Egypt 2022

Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease that poses a significant economic threat to cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle and sheep. The emergence of a novel foot and mouth disease virus-A isolate, FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022, in Egypt in 2022 has raised concerns about its potential impact on existing vaccination programs. Given that vaccination is a key strategy for foot and mouth disease virus control, the present study was aimed to assess the cross-protective efficacy of both local and imported inactivated vaccines against this new threat. Through challenge experiments and serum neutralization tests, we observed limited effectiveness of both vaccine types. The calculated r1-values at 28 days post-vaccination indicated a minimal immune response to FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022 (0.176 and 0.175 for local and imported vaccines, respectively). Challenge experiments further confirmed these findings, revealing 0percent protection from the local vaccine and only 20percent rotection from imported vaccines by day 7 post-challenge. These results underscore the urgent need to update existing foot and mouth disease virus vaccines in Egypt by incorporating the newly circulating FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022 strain. This proactive measure is crucial to prevent future outbreaks and ensure effective disease control(AU)

La fiebre aftosa es una enfermedad vírica muy contagiosa que supone una importante amenaza económica para los animales biungulados, entre ellos el ganado vacuno y ovino. La aparición de un nuevo aislado del virus A de la fiebre aftosa, el FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022, en Egipto en 2022 ha suscitado preocupación por su posible impacto en los programas de vacunación existentes. Dado que la vacunación es una estrategia clave para el control del virus de la fiebre aftosa, el objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la eficacia protectora cruzada de las vacunas inactivadas locales e importadas frente a esta nueva amenaza. Mediante experimentos de desafío y pruebas de seroneutralización, observamos una eficacia limitada de ambos tipos de vacuna. Los valores r1 calculados a los 28 días posvacunación indicaron una respuesta inmunitaria mínima frente a FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022 (0,176 y 0,175 para las vacunas local e importada, respectivamente). Los experimentos de provocación confirmaron aún más estos resultados, revelando un 0 por ciento de protección de la vacuna local y sólo un 20 por ciento de protección de las vacunas importadas al séptimo día después de la provocación. Estos resultados subrayan la urgente necesidad de actualizar las vacunas existentes contra el virus de la fiebre aftosa en Egipto incorporando la nueva cepa circulante FMDV-A-Egy-AHRI-RL385-Ven-2022. Esta medida proactiva es crucial para prevenir futuros brotes y garantizar un control eficaz de la enfermedad(AU)

Consecutive versus concomitant follicle-stimulating hormone and highly purified human menopausal gonadotropin: A milder response but better quality / 대한생식의학회지

Objective@#This study investigated the impact of two stimulation protocols using highly purified human menopausal gonadotropin (HP-hMG) on the endocrine profile, follicular fluid soluble Fas levels, and outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. @*Methods@#This prospective clinical trial included 100 normal-responder women undergoing ovarian stimulation for ICSI; 55 patients received concomitant follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plus HP-hMG from the start of stimulation, while 45 patients received FSH followed by HP-hMG during mid/late follicular stimulation. The primary outcome was the number of top-quality embryos. The secondary outcomes were the number and percentage of metaphase II (MII) oocytes and the clinical pregnancy rate. @*Results@#The number of MII oocytes was significantly higher in the concomitant protocol (median, 13.0; interquartile range [IQR], 8.5–18.0 vs. 9.0 [8.0–13.0] in the consecutive protocol; p=0.009); however, the percentage of MII oocytes and the fertilization rate were significantly higher in the consecutive protocol (median, 90.91; IQR, 80.0–100.0 vs. 83.33 [75.0–93.8]; p=0.034 and median, 86.67; IQR, 76.9–100.0 vs. 77.78 [66.7–89.9]; p=0.028, respectively). No significant between-group differences were found in top-quality embryos (p=0.693) or the clinical pregnancy rate (65.9% vs. 61.8% in the consecutive vs. concomitant protocol, respectively). The median follicular fluid soluble Fas antigen level was significantly higher in the concomitant protocol (9,731.0 pg/mL; IQR, 6,004.5–10,807.6 vs. 6,350.2 pg/mL; IQR, 4,382.4–9,418.4; p=0.021). @*Conclusion@#Personalized controlled ovarian stimulation using HP-hMG during the late follicular phase led to a significantly lower response, but did not affect the quality of ICSI.

Alternative method for the evaluation of monovalent inactivated foot and mouth disease virus vaccine

Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease of cloven-hoofed animals that has a significant economic impact on livestock. A recent outbreak was detected and recorded as exotic strain of foot and mouth disease virus SAT2 (Serotype SAT2, topotype VII, Lib-12 lineage). The emergency vaccine was produced and assessed in vivo and large number of vaccine batches were urgently needed. The present work was aimed to provide a rapid evaluation of inactivated foot and mouth disease SAT2 oily vaccine to exclude the unsatisfactory batches during emergency circumstances and to reduce time, effort and cost. The extraction of foot and mouth disease antigen content from oily adjuvanted vaccine was carried out using isopropyl myristate and benzyl alcohol methods. The extracted viral antigen was identified by foot and mouse disease serotyping ELISA and 146S content was quantified using sucrose density gradient analysis. Evaluations were carried out instantly and at 2h, 6h and 24h. The results indicated the efficiency of benzyl alcohol to breakdown the oil emulsion either MONTANIDE™ ISA 206 VG or MONTANIDE™ ISA 50 V2, while the isopropyl myristate was efficient for MONTANIDE™ ISA 50 V2 only. The identification and quantification of 146S for extracted antigen using benzyl alcohol indicated significant stable records at different time intervals for the vaccine batches, while the extraction using isopropyl myristate indicated unstable records at different time intervals. It was concluded that the evaluation of monovalent foot and mouse disease vaccine could be conducted in vitro, using serotyping ELISA and quantification of 146S for the extracted antigen, either using benzyl alcohol or isopropyl myristate (MONTANIDE™ ISA50 V2 only), with the consideration that 146S content should not less than 4 μg/mL(AU)

La fiebre aftosa es una enfermedad viral altamente contagiosa de los animales de pezuña hendida que tiene un impacto económico significativo en el ganado. Se detectó un brote reciente que se registró como causado por una cepa exótica del virus de la fiebre aftosa (serotipo SAT2, topotipo VII, linaje Lib-12). La vacuna de emergencia se elaboró y evaluó in vivo, existiendo una urgente necesidad de contar con un gran número de lotes de la misma. El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo proporcionar una evaluación rápida de la vacuna oleosa inactivada (SAT2) contra la fiebre aftosa, para excluir los lotes insatisfactorios durante circunstancias de emergencia, reduciendo tiempo, esfuerzo y costo. La extracción del contenido de antígeno de fiebre aftosa, de la vacuna oleosa adyuvada, se llevó a cabo utilizando miristato de isopropilo y alcohol bencílico. El antígeno viral extraído se identificó utilizando un ELISA de serotipificación y se cuantificó el contenido de 146S mediante análisis de gradiente de densidad de sacarosa. Las evaluaciones se realizaron de forma instantánea y a las 2h, 6h y 24h. Los resultados indicaron la eficacia del alcohol bencílico para separar la emulsión de aceite para MONTANIDE ™ ISA 206 VG o MONTANIDE™ ISA 50 V2, mientras que el miristato de isopropilo fue eficaz para MONTANIDE™ ISA 50 V2 únicamente(AU)

Computed tomography evaluation of internal nasal valve angle and area and its correlation with NOSE scale for symptomatic improvement in rhinoplasty / Avaliação do ângulo e da área da válvula nasal interna por tomografia computadorizada e sua correlação com a escala NOSE na melhora sintomática pós rinoplastia

Abstract Introduction: Nasal obstruction is one of the most frequent otolaryngologic complaints; and the collapse of the internal nasal valve is one the main causes of the nasal air flow obstruction. Objective: We aimed to evaluate internal nasal valve by using reformatted CT-scans pre- and post- rhinoplasty at 3 months and to assess its correlation to symptomatic improvement of nasal obstruction using the NOSE scale. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted between March 2017-May 2018 in a tertiary care otorhinolaryngology center. We included patients suffering from nasal obstruction secondary to internal nasal angle collapse and nasal deformity. Patients with sinusitis, nasal polyposis, and nasal masses were excluded. Results: Twenty consecutive patients underwent rhinoplasty, with a mean age (22.2 ± 2.8), with majority of males (n = 14; 70%). There was no significant correlation between pre- and post- CT-scans of the internal nasal valve angle/area and NOSE scores. A high significant difference was detected between mean pre- and post- NOSE scores (p < 0.0001), which was absent in CT-scan results. Conclusion: Reformatted CT-scans measurements of internal nasal valve area and angle were not of value. NOSE scores pre- and post- rhinoplasty had a significant value to determine degree of obstructive symptom improvement.

Resumo Introdução: A obstrução nasal é uma das queixas otorrinolaringológicas mais comuns, e o colapso ou obstrução da válvula nasal interna é a principal causa da obstrução das vias aéreas nasais. Objetivo: Objetivamos avaliar a válvula nasal interna pré, e 3 meses pós-rinoplastia utilizandotomografias computadorizadas reformatadas e avaliar sua correlação com a melhora do sintoma obstrutivo utilizando a escala NOSE, do Inglês Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation. Método: Um estudo observacional prospectivo foi realizado entre março de 2017 e maio de 2018 em um centro de otorrinolaringologia de atenção terciária. Foram incluídos pacientes que apresentavam obstrução nasal secundário a colapso da valva nasal interna e deformidade nasal. Pacientes com sinusite, polipose nasal e tumores nasais foram excluídos. Resultados: Vinte pacientes consecutivos, a maioria do sexo masculino (n = 14; 70%) com média de idade de 22,2 ± 2,8 anos, foram submetidos a rinoplastia eincluídos no estudo. Não houve correlação significante entre as avaliações tomográficas pré / pós cirúrgicas do ângulo/área da valva nasal interna e os escores NOSE. Foi detectada uma diferençã altamente significante entre os escores médios da escala NOSE entre o pré e pós-operatório (p < 0,0001), mas não nos resultados da avaliação por tomografia computadorizada. Conclusão: As medidas reformatadas de tomografias computadorizadas da área e ângulo da valva nasal interna pré e pós cirúrgicas não tiveram valor. Entretanto, os escores da escala NOSE pré e pós-rinoplastia mostraram uma diferença significante ao determinar o grau de melhora do sintoma obstrutivo.

Ecological Analysis of Five Years Dengue Cases and Outbreaks in Keningau, Sabah, Malaysia

@#Introduction: Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus that is transmitted via Aedes mosquitoes. The lifecycle of Aedes mosquitoes is affected by the local climate (rainfall) which influences dengue transmission. Sabah is one of the states that is laden with a high incidence rate of dengue in Malaysia and the condition seems to have worsened with sudden, multiple outbreaks occurring in the year 2016. Methods: An ecological analysis was conducted in Keningau, Sabah to analyse dengue case patterns and distribution over a 5-year period and to exhibit the correlation between rainfall, larval indices, dengue incidences, and outbreaks. Results: Significant cross-correlation analysis (CCF) was discovered between rainfall and Aedes index at lag number 5 with a correlation coefficient of 0.151 (±0.063) as well as between rainfall and Breteau Index at lag number 5 with a correlation coefficient of 0.143 (±0.063). However, no significant cross-correlation analysis was found between Aedes index and dengue incidences. Associations were also seen between larval indices and outbreak cases. Conclusion: This study showed an increase of Aedes and Breteau Indices to susceptibility level five weeks after rainfall which increases the risk of dengue transmission.

Evaluation of hepatoprotective activity of Polygonum equisetiforme methanolic extract

In the current study, the methanolic extract of Polygonum equisetiforme aerial parts was assessed for its protectiveeffect towards carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic damage in Sprague-Dawley rats. Polygonum equisetiformeextract’s hepatoprotective activity was explored by calculating hepatic marker enzyme levels of the rats: alanineaminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) together with the oxidative stress mediator levelsas nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxidedismutase (SOD). Results showed that the use of the extract at concentrations of 100 and 200 mg/kg showed asubstantial reduction in ALT and AST serum levels as well as a considerable decrease in oxidative stress mediators NO,MDA and an increase in antioxidant enzyme levels GSH, GPx, and SOD. These biochemical results were reinforcedby examining the histopathological features of the liver. Thus, the P. equisetiforme aerial parts demonstrated markedprotective impact of the liver that likely due to the synergistic action of its flavonoids content

Serum Levels of Zinc and Copper in Cases of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Background:Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) represents a heterogeneous group of autoimmune diseases that arises before the age of 16 years and lasts more than 6 months. During acute inflammation of the disease, serum copper concentration increases and zinc decreases, that could point to the possible pharmacological properties of these trace elements. Aim:To measure the serum level of zinc and copper in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) with different subtypes and correlate the levels of zinc and copper with the disease activity. Methods:This cross-sectional study was done on 40 patients already diagnosed clinically with JIA; patients were followed-up at the Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic, Children's Hospital, Cairo University. Results:Out of forty patients, 16were males (40%) and 24 were females (60%) with a male to female ratio (M: F) of 1:1.5. Out of the forty patients 17 were in activity and 23 were without activity. Thirty age and sex matched controls were included for comparison. Serum copper level was significantly higher in patients with JIA than those of the controls (P= 0.017) while there were no significant difference in serum level of zinc between JIA patients and that of the controls. Conclusion:Alteration of serum copper and zinc probably is a defense response against JIA; increased copper may be due to inflammation associated, these elements could serve as biomarkers for the disease activity.

Putative Mechanisms of Drought Tolerance in Maize (Zea mays L.) via Root System Architecture Traits

Identifying maize genotypes with favorable root architecture traits for drought tolerance is prerequisite for initiating a successful breeding program for developing high yielding and drought tolerant varieties of maize. The aims of the present study were: (i) to identify drought tolerant genotypes of maize at flowering and grain filling, (ii) to interpret the correlations between the drought tolerance and root architecture traits and (iii) to identify the putative mechanisms of drought tolerance via root system traits. An experiment was carried out in two years using a split plot design with three replications. The main plots were assigned to three water stress levels, namely: well watering (WW), water stress at flowering (WSF) and water stress at grain filling (WSG), and sub-plots to 22 maize cultivars and populations. Drought tolerance index (DTI) had strong and positive associations with crown root length (CRL), root circumference (RC) and root dry weight (DRW) under both WSF and WSG, a negative correlation with brace root whorls (BW), and positive correlations with crown root number (CN) under WSF and brace root branching (BB) and crown root branching (CB) under WSG. These root traits are therefore considered as putative mechanisms of drought tolerance. The cultivars Pioneer-3444, SC-128, Egaseed-77, SC-10 and TWC-324 showed the most drought tolerant and the highest yielding in a descending order; each had a number of such drought tolerance mechanisms. Further investigation should be conducted to determine the underlying root mechanisms contributing to the selection of water-efficient hybrids of maize.

The Effects of Genotype, Soil Water Deficit and Their Interaction on Agronomic, Physiologic and Yield Traits of Zea mays L.

The presence of genotypic differences in performances under soil water deficit would help plant breeders in initiating successful breeding programs to improve drought tolerance. The objectives of the present study were: (i) to assess the effects of genotype, water stress and their interaction on maize agronomic, physiologic and yield traits and (ii) to identify drought tolerant genotypes for use in future breeding programs. Fifteen commercial hybrids and seven breeding populations were evaluated in the field for two seasons under water stress at flowering (WSF) and grain filling (WSG) compared to well watering (WW). A split plot design with three replications was used. Data analysed across seasons revealed a significant reduction in grain yield/plant (28.69 and 20.26%), grain yield/ha (35.53 and 25.51%), chlorophyll concentration index (30.18 and 44.07%) and 100-kernel weight (6.75 and 12.36%) due to water stress under WSF and WSG, respectively, a significant reduction in ears/plant (11.58%), kernels/row (14.23%), kernels/plant (24.85%) due to water stress under WSF and in upper stem diameter (18.46%) due to water stress under WSG, but a significant increase in days to silking (3.50%), anthesis silking interval (21.17%) and barren stalks (26.18%) due to water stress under WSF. Rank of genotypes differed from one irrigation regime to another for most studied traits. The highest yielding genotypes were Eg-77, P-3444, SC-128 and HT-2066 under WSF and P-3444, SC-128, TWC-324 and SC-166 under WSG, in a descending order. These genotypes could be offered to maize breeding programs for developing drought tolerant inbred and hybrids.

Evaluation of the Antioxidant, Analgesic and Cytotoxic Activities of Daucus carota canopy L Ethanolic Extract

In researcher’s previous study it has been found that the 80% ethanolic extract of Daucus carota canopy L was the most active extract for antibacterial activity and its phytochemical screening led to the isolation and identification of 12 natural flavone compounds including the new C-glycoside; 6,8-Di-C-α-L-rhamnoside diosmetin besides 11 known compounds. The primary objective of the present work is to investigate the 80% EtOH extract of Daucus carota canopy L for its antioxidant, analgesic and cytotoxic activities and the new compound for its cytotoxic activity. The ethanolic extract (300 µL, 1 mg/ml) gave the highest effective antioxidant activity with inhibition % 82.09 ± 0.15 using radical scavenging method which is more than the standard BHA (68.2) and less than the standard TBHQ (98.2). The cytotoxic activity of ethanolic extract against MCF7 gave IC50 19.4 µg/ml, and the new compounds had IC50 is 8.05 µg/ml compare to Cisplatin which its IC50 is 5.48 µg/ml. Its anti-nociceptive properties show that the ethanolic extract (200 µL, 1 mg/ml) significantly (p<0.05) decreased the number of writhes in acetic acid writhing test and increased the response time in hot plate method when comparing with the control group.

Prevalence Of Strongyloidiasis in Southeast Asia: A Systematic Review

@#Strongyloides stercoralis is an intestinal helminth that infects humans through contact with soil containing the larvae. Methods A systematic search was performed for relevant titles, abstract and keywords in database from Cochrane Library, PLOS One, PubMed and several other sources in October 2017 based on PICO strategy. Out of 511 papers that were evaluated for possible inclusion, final assessment for eligibility has yielded a total of 17 papers to be included which were found suitable for analysis covering period from 2012 till 2016. Results A major challenge of giving an overview of prevalence data for S. stercoralis lies in the low sensitivity of diagnostic method used which resulted in very low prevalence in certain countries. Cambodia and Laos presented with high prevalence ranging from 17.4% to 45.9% by using high sensitivity of diagnostic methods. The current prevalence situation of S. stercoralis in Southeast Asia still have wide gaps remains due to several reasons. Conclusions The information we have today only scratches the surface which cannot truly reflect the true burden of S. stercoralis in Southeast Asia The main risk factor is personal hygiene practices especially amongst males.

Evaluation of the internal nasal valve using computed tomography pre and post rhinoplasty and its correlation to symptomatic improvement

Background: The INV area is the narrowest area of a nasal cavity, which is formed by the nasal septum, the caudal border of the upper lateral cartilage ULC, the head of the inferior turbinate, and the pyriform aperture and the tissues that surround it. Accurate evaluation of the INV is important to the workup for repair of problems that involve this area. The initial evaluation of the nasal valve occurs with the clinical examination, anterior rhinoscopy, the Cottle maneuver, and endoscopy, which all are used clinically to assess nasal airflow

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the internal nasal valve by using reformatted [CT] scans of the nasal airway pre and post rhinoplasty and its correlation to symptomatic improvement according to [NOSE] scale

Patients and Methods: This prospective study of twenty patients who were subjected to rhinoplasty at ENT departments of Ain-shams university hospitals

Results: This study included 20 cases of age's ranges from 20 to 30 years. The mean age among study cases was 23.8 +/-3.22. There were 14 males and 6 females. So, the majority of cases [70%] were males. In our study, we detected that there is no significant correlation between CT scans analysis of the INV pre and postrhinoplasty and there is no significant correlation between CT scans analysis of the INV and the NOSE score pre and post-rhinoplasty. On the other hand, there is high significant correlation between NOSE score pre and post-rhinoplasty

Conclusion: In our study, we detected that there is no significant correlation between CT scans analysis of the INV pre and post-rhinoplasty and there is no significant correlation between CT scans analysis of the INV and the NOSE score pre and post-rhinoplasty

Metabolic outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Background Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy [LSG] is a recently developed technique for treating morbid obesity. As it is a simple procedure, many bariatric surgeons have adopted it in recent years with good results. LSG is a purely gastric restrictive procedure designed to reduce appetite by decreasing the size of the stomach

Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the metabolic outcomes of LSG, including rate of weight loss, amelioration of obesity-related comorbidities as well as the intraoperative and postoperative complications

Patients and methods From August 2011 to August 2013, 60 consecutive patients with morbid obesity [eight males and 52 females] underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy at the Ain Shams University Hospital [El-Demerdash] and Ain Shams Specialized Hospital. Follow-up of the patients was done for a period of 2 years to investigate the preliminary results of this procedure including operative morbidity and mortality, short-term and long-term complications, rates and parameters of weight loss, as well as the effect on lipid and energy metabolism

Results There were two cases [2/60 [3.3%]] with intra-abdominal bleeding following LSG. Staple-line failure was detected in two cases [2/60 [3.3%]], two early complications [2/60 [3.3%]] were encountered, and late complications occurred in two patients [2/30 [3.3%]], with no mortality occurred. Substantial weight loss occurred in all patients. Mean excess weight loss was 48.04+/-4.34% at the end of first year and 67.85+/-3.75% at the end of the second year. Complete resolution of comorbidities was 73.3% for hypertension and 80% for diabetes mellitus at the end of second year

Conclusion LSG is a feasible and safe restrictive bariatric procedure, with good short-term results. It offers the advantages of a simple and reproducible technique with good outcome and low morbidity and mortality. LSG is accepted as a standalone definitive therapy, as it has a high percentage of postoperative excess weight loss as well as reduction of obesity-related comorbidities

Effect of nanotechnology in self-etch bonding systems on the shear bond strength of stainless steel orthodontic brackets

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effect of silica dioxide (SiO2) nanofillers in different bonding systems on shear bond strength (SBS) and mode of failure of orthodontic brackets at two experimental times. Methods: Ninety-six intact premolars were divided into four groups: A) Conventional acid-etch and primer Transbond XT; B) Transbond Plus self-etch primer; and two self-etch bonding systems reinforced with silica dioxide nanofiller at different concentrations: C) Futurabond DC at 1%; D) Optibond All-in-One at 7%. Each group was allocated into two subgroups (n = 12) according to experimental time (12 and 24 hours). SBS test was performed using a universal testing machine. ARI scores were determined under a stereomicroscope. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to determine the size and distribution of nanofillers. One-way ANOVA was used to compare SBS followed by the post-hoc Tukey test. The chi-square test was used to evaluate ARI scores. Results: Mean SBS of Futurabond DC and Optibond All-in-One were significantly lower than conventional system, and there were no significant differences between means SBS obtained with all self-etch bonding systems used in the study. Lower ARI scores were found for Futurabond DC and Optibond All-in-One. There was no significant difference of SBS and ARI obtained at either time points for all bonding systems. Relative homogeneous distribution of the fillers was observed with the bonding systems. Conclusion: Two nanofilled systems revealed the lowest bond strengths, but still clinically acceptable and less adhesive was left on enamel. It is advisable not to load the brackets immediately to the maximum.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar o efeito das nanopartículas de dióxido de silício (SiO2), presentes em diferentes sistemas adesivos, na resistência ao cisalhamento da colagem (RAC) e no modo de fratura de braquetes ortodônticos avaliados em dois momentos. Métodos: noventa e seis pré-molares intactos foram divididos em quatro grupos: A) condicionador ácido convencional e primer Transbond XT; B) primer autocondicionador Transbond Plus; e dois sistemas adesivos autocondicionantes reforçados com nanopartículas de dióxido de silício em diferentes concentrações, C) DC Futurabond a 1%; D) Optibond All-In-One a 7%. Cada grupo foi dividido em dois subgrupos (n = 12), de acordo com o tempo para realização do teste (12 e 24 horas). O teste da RAC foi realizado em uma máquina universal de ensaios. Os resultados do índice de adesivo remanescente foram determinados com um estereomicroscópio. Para determinar o tamanho e a distribuição das nanopartículas, utilizou-se microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) e microscopia eletrônica de transmissão (MET). O ANOVA a um critério foi usado para comparar a RAC, seguido pelo teste post-hoc de Tukey. O teste qui-quadrado foi usado para avaliar os índices de adesivo remanescente. Resultados: a RAC média do Futurabond DC e do Optibond All-In-One foi menor do que a do sistema convencional, de forma estatisticamente significativa; e não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os níveis médios de RAC obtidos nos sistemas adesivos autocondicionantes avaliados nesse estudo. Os menores índices de adesivo remanescente foram observados com o Futurabond DC e o Optibond All-In-One. Não houve, entre os sistemas adesivos, diferença significativa na RAC e nos índices de adesivo remanescente obtidos nos dois tempos de aplicação. Foi observada uma distribuição relativamente homogênea das partículas nos sistemas adesivos. Conclusão: os dois sistemas com nanopartículas demonstraram menor RAC, mas ainda aceitável e com o menor índice de adesivo remanescente no esmalte. É, assim, aconselhável não submeter os braquetes à carga máxima logo após a colagem.

Evaluation of preservative capacity for some selected cosmetic products found in the market

Aim of the study: To determine the preservative capacity of different cosmetic preparations commonly found in the Egyptian markets

Methods: Microbiological evaluation of 74 cosmetic sample and preservative capacity test for cosmetic samples showing no microbial contamination using rejecting microorganisms by cup plate technique

Results: It was found that 29 samples were contaminated at levels >103 or >500 [for baby care products] or contaminated with rejecting microorganisms or both. The preservative capacity was variable between the different types and brands of the tested cosmetics against bacteria [P<0.05], while for Candida albicans all samples of the different cosmetic types were of nearly the same effect [p>0.05]

Conclusion: The detection of microbial counts greater than the microbial limits standards and isolation of rejecting microorganisms are clear evidences of non-adherence to good Manufacturing Practices. Variable preservative capacity in some cosmetics may indicate its ability to withstand microbial contamination which leads to spoilage of these cosmetics

Comparative Histological Study on the Therapeutic Effect of Green Tea and Stem Cells in Alzheimer's Disease Complicating Experimentally Induced Diabetes

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder. Increasing evidence implicates diabetes mellitus (DM) as a risk factor for AD. Green tea (GT) has several beneficial effects attributed to its anti-oxidant phenolic compounds. Adipose tissue is a rich source of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs). This study was designed to evaluate and compare the possible therapeutic effect of green tea extract (GTE) and ADSCs on AD complicating induced DM in male rat. METHODS: 31 adult male albino rats were divided into 5 groups. Group I (Control), Group II received GTE, 50 mg/kg daily orally for 4 weeks, Group III received a single intraperitoneal injection of Streptozotocin (STZ), 50 mg/kg, Group IV: received STZ followed by GTE and Group V: received STZ followed by human ADSCs (hADSCs) intravenously. RESULTS: Multiple acidophilic masses, deformed neurons, Congo red +ve masses and Caspase 3 +ve neurons were seen in group III, became few in group IV and occasional in group V. Multiple Prussian blue +ve cells were detected in group V. Some CD44 +ve cells were noticed in group III, became multiple in groups IV and V. The mean area of neurons exhibiting acidophilic cytoplasm, mean area of amyloid plaques and mean area % of Caspase 3 +ve cells indicated a significant increase in group III. The mean area % of CD44 +ve cells recorded a significant increase in group IV. CONCLUSIONS: hADSCs exerted a more marked therapeutic effect on the neurodegenerative changes complicating DM and corresponding to AD.

Serum miRNA-1 as a novel biomarker for acute myocardial infarction and unstable angina

Background: Coronary artery diseases are the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality in developed and developing countries. Thus, extraordinary efforts have been directed to determine the molecular and pathological characteristics of the diseased heart in order to develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies miRNAs are class of abundant, non-coding RNAs that attracted scientists' attention for their promising role as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in cardiovascular diseases

Aim of the work: To identify whether miRNA-1 is a dependable biomarker for diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction or not

Subjects and Methods: 69 patients with coronary artery disease were included in this study; 36 patients with AMI and 33 patients with unstable angina. Those patients were admitted to coronary care unit, Assuit University Hospital during the period of March to October 2014. In addition 22 apparently healthy subjects were included as a control group. Cardiac troponin I and miRNA-1 was done for all subjects

Results: In patients with AMI the results of miRNA-1 ranged from 28.3 - 6763.9 fold changes above the control level. In those with UA, miRNA-1 result ranged from 1.74 - 144.37 fold changes above the control level [when the control group is one fold]. Comparison between different cups regarding results of miRNA-1 revealed that there was a highly significant difference [P<0.001] between different groups. There was a highly significant increase in patients with AMI when compared with the control group, also a statistically significant increase [P<0.001] in patients with UA when compared with the control group and a statistically significant increase [P<0.001] in patients with AMI when compared with those of UA

Conclusion: miRNA-1 is a novel dependable biomarker in patients with acute coronary syndrome. It shows significant upregulation in patients with AMI, but this upregulation is far from that of UA

IL-17 assay in adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma patients with dermatophytosis

Assess IL-17 level as proinflamtory cytokine and predictor for the outcome of inflammatory process in ATLL patients with dermatophytosis. Isolation and identification of different types of dermatophytes infecting patients with ATLL. 58 subjects were included in this study [16 adult patients with adult T-cell leukemia / lymphomaclinically diagnosed to have dermatophytosis, 14 adult patients with adult T-cell leukemia / lymphoma clinically diagnosed to have no dermatophytosis, 12 age and sex matched patients clinically diagnosed to have dermatophytosis and 16 Age and sex matched apparently healthy Controls]. Sampleswere examined microscopically using 20% KOH and cultured on into SDA containing chloramphenicol [0.5%] with/without cycloheximide [0.5%] and Dermatophyte test medium [DTM]. in the non-ATLL patients with dermatophytosis, the serum IL-17 level was significantly increased compared with the healthy controls. In ATLL patients either with or without dermatophytosis, the IL-17 levels were significantly lower than those in the healthy controls. There was no significant difference in the IL-17 level between ATLL patients with dermatophytosis and those without dermatophytosis. Again, it is suggested that ATLL patients have low levels of IL-17, which cannot be enhanced by the presence of dermatophytosis. Among patients with ATLL with dermatophytosis [Group I] T. rubrum was the commonest dermatophyte causing infection; 64% of samples [tineacorporis 46%, tineaunguium 18%], whereas T. mentagrophytes was the 2[nd] commonest dermatophyte; 27% [tineaunguium 27%], lastly T. tonsurans; 9% [tineacorporis 9%]. In patients with Non-ATLL with dermatophytosis [Group III] T. rubrum was also the commonest dermatophyte causing infection; 64% of samples [tineacorporis 7%, tineaunguium 14%, tineapedis 43%], whereas T. mentagrophytes was the 2nd commonest dermatophyte; 29% [tineaunguium 7%, tineapedis 22%], lastly T. tonsurans; 7% [tineacorporis 7%]. Our data provides clinical evidence linking Th17 cells to immune deficiency in ATLL and opens a new avenue in the study of tumor immunotherapy based on promoting Th17 cell population

The stress of phenylalanine on rats to study the phenylketonuria at biochemical and molecular level.

The present study was aimed to study the stress of phenylalanine on rats to study the effect of Phenylketonuria at molecular and biochemical level. In our study, the rats’ weight ranged from 132 to 190 gm. They were housed 25 day and the diet was prepared 5% phenylalanine and the weight is recorded every week. The rats divided into 2 groups, control group and phenylalanine group. After feeding with 5% phenylalanine diet, we take blood samples to measure biochemical markers as (ALT, AST, creatinine, Lipid profile and S100B) and tissues for PCR. Our biochemical results showed significant increase in S100B in phenylalanine group and reduction in total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglyceride in phenylalanine group. The molecular study which based on comparing the DNA obtained by RAPD-PCR showed a specific DNA bands which may be responsible for Phenylketonuria and may be used for identification of disease at earlier time of injury. The excess of phenylalanine in diet lead to neural tissue damage and may cause mutation combined with the induced PKU (Phenylketonuria).

Evaluation of pan-dermatophyte nested PCR in diagnosis of onychomycosis in comparison with direct microscopy and culture

This work aimed to compare nested PCR using novel primers targeting the pan-dermatophyte-specific sequence of the chitin synthase 1 gene [CHS1] with KOH microscopy and culture isolation for diagnosis of clinically suspected onychomycosis. This study was conducted during the period from December, 2012 to October 2013. Forty patients attending Outpatient Dermatology and Andrology Clinic in Benha University Hospital. This study was done on forty patients 15 cases were female and the other 25 cases were males with abnormal nails. Their ages ranged from 22 to 77 years. As many as 19 patients were living in rural areas, while 21 patients came from urban areas. Nail scrapings were collected and examined using direct KOH microscopic examination, culture and PCR using double sets of primers. As regard direct microscopy by KOH examination; 33 [82.50%] cases were positive, while 7 [17.5%] were negative. Culture was positive only in 19[47.5%] of nail samples revealing different fungi. Dermatophytes were isolated from 15[37.5%] cases; most of them were T. mentagrophytes. And in 4 cases the only isolated non dermatophytic organism was Aspergillus Niger spp. [10.00%]. Nested PCR was positive in 26 [65.00%] nail samples. It is concluded that nested PCR targeting the CHS1 gene may be considered the gold standard for detection of dermatophytes in patients with onychomycosis and can aid the clinician in initiating prompt and appropriate antifungal therapy. PCR is a very powerful tool for microbiology and clinical mycology. It can detect very small amounts of nucleic acids. This technique may also play an important role in large-scale studies and in the management of problematic cases of onychopathies