Comparison of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry with phenotypic methods for identification and characterization of Staphylococcus aureus causing mastitis

@#The emergence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is one of the greatest threats to both animal and human health. Our investigation was aimed to identify and differentiate between MRSA and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) recovered from mastitic milk using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry compared with phenotypic methods and studying their susceptibility to various antibiotics. Four hundred milk samples from mastitic animals (cows, sheep, goats, and dromedary camels) were investigated. Phenotypic identification of S. aureus was made through MASTASAPH Latex test, STAPH ID 32, and Vitek 2 system. The proteomic characterization of S. aureus was done by MBT. The Kirby Bauer method was accomplished to detect the resistance of S. aureus strains to antibiotics. The results of the MASTASAPH Latex test, revealed that 54 (46%) were recognized as S. aureus. All S. aureus isolates were identified by MBT with a score of more or equal 2.00. Several peaks were identified in the mass of 4590 Da, 4863 Da, and 4938 Da for MSSA and in the mass of 2636 Da and 3009 Da for MRSA. The MSP dendrogram demonstrated that the S. aureus isolates were classified into one group with a distance level of less or equal 400. The percentage of S. aureus resistance against carbenicillin, erythromycin and kanamycin was 94.4%, 38.88%, and 33.33%, respectively. In conclusion, S. aureus bacteria are among the key triggers for mastitis in Saudi Arabia. MBT is reported to be not only the rapid tool to identify S. aureus but also able to discriminate MRSA from MSSA.

Clinical and laboratory diagnosis of contagious caprine pleuropneumonia in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia: a comparative study

Diagnosis of contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP) in Saudi Arabia mainlydepends on clinical signs and post-mortem findings, in addition to limited usage of latexagglutination test (LAT). In this study, a PCR method specific for detection of Mycoplasmacapricolum subspecies capripneumoniae (Mccp) was used as a direct confirmatory methodand to compare it with clinical signs, necropsy lesions and LAT. During the 2016-2017 year,samples of serum, pleural fluid, lung tissue and nasal swab were collected from 40 goats withclinical signs of CCPP, which were selected from goats brought to the veterinary clinic ofQassim University from 18 goat herds and nine localities. Epidemiological data revealed34.1%, 27.8% and 81.6% morbidity, mortality and case fatality rates, respectively. At necropsy,31 of 40 goats (77.5%) were found with lesions matching those of CCPP. Molecular findingssupported the suitability and applicability of PCR as a reliable method to diagnose andconfirm CCPP directly from clinical samples. The disease was confirmed by PCR in 35 goatsout of 40 (87.5%), 15 herds out of 18 (83.3%) and in all localities. Sera of 32 goats (80%) werefound positive by LAT. Four of the five goats and two of the three herds negative by PCR werealso negative by LAT and necropsy examination. Therefore, PCR sensitivity was considered97.2% (35/36). Compared to the claimed high specificity and sensitivity of the used PCRmethod, diagnosis of CCPP based on clinical signs was found less specific and necropsyexamination and LAT were less sensitive. It was concluded that molecular detection of Mccpdirectly in clinical samples should routinely be used to confirm diagnosis of CCPP in theregion of study, prevent economic impact of wrong diagnosis and to hasten control process.

Efficacy of Human Platelet Rich Fibrin Exudate vs Fetal Bovine Serum on Proliferation and Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The imperative role of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in regenerative therapy demands an in-vitro expansion which must deal with the safety and ethical problems associated with fetal bovine serum (FBS). The primary aim of this study was to compare the effects of human platelet rich fibrin (hPRF) exudate Vs FBS on proliferation and osteodifferentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). The secondary one was to determine the optimum concentration of hPRF exudate inducing hDPSCs proliferation and osteodifferentiation. METHODS: The direct method was used to prepare hPRF exudate. hDPSCs were isolated from impacted mandibular third molars of twelve donors by the outgrowth method. For cell viability and proliferation rate testing, 96 well plates were used and the assay was done in duplicate and the trial repeated four times under the same conditions. Six wells were used to contain 10% FBS, serum free media, 1%, 5%, 10% and 20% concentrations of hPRF exudates, respectively. The proliferation assay was carried out by MTS tetrazolium cell proliferation assay kit and Elisa reader. The study design for osteodifferentiation protocol was exactly as the proliferation one and instead the assay was carried out by alizarin red with Elisa reader. RESULTS: Compared to 10% FBS, 10% hPRF exudate was the optimum concentration for hDPSCs proliferation, while 1% hPRF exudate was the optimum concentration for osteodifferentiation of hDPSCs. CONCLUSIONS: Avoiding the risk of zoonosis which may be occurred with FBS, it is recommended to use 10% hPRF exudate for proliferation and 1% for osteodifferentiation.

Physicians' job satisfaction and its correlates in a tertiary medical care center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Objectives: to measure the degree of job satisfaction among physicians working in a Tertiary Care Hospital and to identify background and work environment characteristics that affect overall and differential job satisfaction

Subjects and Methods: this is a cross-sectional study of 340 physicians selected from a Tertiary Care Center using a stratified random sample with proportional allocation using a self-administered questionnaire with the 5-point Likert scale. From the 340 physicians requested to participate in the study, 217 [63.8%] completed the questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used appropriately, including mean +/- standard deviation for the quantitative variables, while frequency and percentages were used for the qualitative variables. ANOVA, t-test, and Chi-square were used as necessary to determine if there are any significant relationships between satisfaction scores and the predictor variables

Results: a total of 217 physicians [males 75.6% females 24.4%] completed the questionnaire. Of this total, 52.5% were non-Saudis. The overall perceived satisfaction as measured by one question was 3.42 points out of 5 [68.4%] significantly lower than the overall satisfaction which took in consideration all variables 3.67 points [73.4%]. Mean satisfaction scores were significantly negatively related to the number of children [P < 0.001] the physicians had, but positively correlated to stipend, duration of vacation leave, sick leave policy, health coverage for the employee and family, overall benefits package, involvement in academic work, and involvement in research work [P < 0.001]

Conclusion: the working environment and policies of an organization play important roles in the satisfaction of its physicians. Boosting physician satisfaction is important for both the success of a Tertiary Care Center and for the high quality services offered to patients

prevalence of physical activity and its socioeconomic correlates in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional population-based national survey

To determine the levels of physical activity in the Saudi population and to assess its socio-demographic correlates. The data were part of a cross-sectional representative national survey of 4758 participants conducted in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A multistage stratified cluster random sampling design was used. Physical activity was assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire [GPAQ] version 2.0. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify the determinants and were adjusted in relation to various factors. Overall, physical inactivity was found to be 66.6% [95% C.I.: 65.3%-68%], 60.1% [95% C.I.: 58.1% - 62.1%] for males and 72.9% [95% C.I.: 71.1%-74.7%] for females. Leisure time physical inactivity was found to be 87.9%, 85.6% for males and 90.2% for females. The northern and central regions reported the highest prevalence of no physical activity at work, leisure and transportation. Gender, geographical location and employment status exhibited a statistically significant correlation. There is a high level of physical inactivity in various regions and population groups in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Population interventions are greatly needed, especially those focusing on physical activity in their leisure time

Comparative study on the effect of antioxidants alpha-lipoic acid and N-acetyl cysteine on the structure of the renal tubules of diabetic rabbits

Hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress plays a central role in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. The therapeutic potential of antioxidants in the prevention and treatment of these complications is an emerging research area. The roles of alpha-lipoic acid [ALA] and N-acetyl cysteine [NAC] in the protection against oxidative stress in alloxan-induced diabetic rabbits were assessed both biochemically and histologically in this study. Thirty-two mature male rabbits were used in this study. They were divided into two groups: the control group [n=8] and the experimental [n=24] group; the experimental group was injected intraperitoneally with alloxan [180mg/ml/kg body weight]. After 3 weeks, this group [diabetic rabbits] was subdivided into three subgroups of eight rabbits each. The first one was left as the untreated diabetic subgroup; rabbits in the second and third subgroups were treated daily for 7 days with ALA and NAC [100 mg/ml/kg body weight], respectively. At the end of the experiment, blood and kidney sections were processed for biochemical and histological studies. The renal tubules showed degenerative and apoptotic changes, which were associated with increased DNA fragmentation and lipid peroxidation in the kidney tissues, as well as reduction in the capacity of the antioxidant defense system. However, treatment of diabetic rabbits with either ALA or NAC ameliorated diabetes-induced oxidative stress. ALA and NAC could be useful in the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress associated with hyperglycemia. This action seems to result mainly from direct scavenging of reactive oxygen species and restoring of the GSH [glutathione] redox state

Glue sniffing neuropathy and review of literature

Glue sniffing neuropathy commonly known as n-hexane neuropathy. It is well documented that industrial exposure to n-hexane causes neuropathy, however it is less well recognized that inhalation of n-hexane present in the vapors can also cause neuropathy. However such patients are not seen that frequently. The acute worsening also generates differential diagnosis of GBS. Most of literature is reported from west . We report such case for the first time from Saudi Arabia. A 35 year old male presented to us with progressive numbness followed by weakness in both legs since last three weeks. Over next two week he became chair bound and in the beginning of third week he also stated to feel numbness in both the hands and some weakness was also noted in hands. His past history was significant for carpet cleaning glue sniffing for many years. His exam was significant for distal weakness feet greater than hands, deep tendon reflexes were absent all over. All sensory modalities showed glove and stocking pattern. Nerve conduction velocities showed slowing. His CSF exam was normal. We conclude that n-hexane is neurotoxic when inhaled to excess and, that the neuropathy has characteristic electrophysiological and pathological features

effect of duration of finishing and polishing on the surface roughness of two composite resins

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of duration of finishing and polishing procedures on the surface roughness of two different types of composite resins. Forty samples of 6 mm in diameter and 2 mm in depth were prepared, 2 types of composite resins were used [nanocomposite and hybrid composite resin]. Twenty samples of each type of material were prepared and divided into two main groups and then each main group subdivided randomly into two subgroups of 10 samples for each subgroup [one]. Ten samples of each material were submitted to finishing by using a finishing kit. The available finishing kits used in this study containing discs, cups and points that were used with a slow-speed hand piece in a dry field and with a light intermittent pressure for about 15 seconds. While the other 10 samples of each material were finished for about 30 second; then the analysis of the surface roughness was carried out, three readings were made on each surface using a stylus tip and the extension of each reading was 2 mm stroke. There was non significant difference between the groups that were finished and polished for 15 second and the other groups that were finished and polished for 30 second for the two different types of composite resin. Increasing duration of finishing and polishing has no effect on the surface roughness of the two different types of composite resin

Coronal sealing ability of different sealers on teeth obturation and the effectiveness of two different obturation techniques

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of two sealers on coronal seal and the coronal sealing ability of two obturation techniques. Forty extracted single-rooted human teeth were instrumented with the step-back technique and were irrigated with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite [NaOCl]. The smear layer was removed by washing with 10 ml of 17% ethylene diamine tetra-acetic acid [EDTA] and 10 ml of 5.25% [NaOCl]. All instrumented root canals were randomly divided into two experimental groups; Group A: 20 roots epoxy resin sealer [AH26] was used, Group B: 20 roots Zinc oxide euginol [ZOE] sealer was used. Each group of main groups were subdivided randomly into two obturation groups; 1. 10 roots obturated by thermo plasticized technique [obtura II], 2. 10 roots obturated by cold lateral compaction tech-nique. The root surfaces were then coated with nail polish except for the coronal, then dye penetration study was conducted and samples were examined under the stereomicro-scope. Data had been collected from three independent examiners and statistically analyzed using student t-test. There were significant differences between AH26 with ZOE in group obturated by obtura II and when obtura II technique compared with the cold lateral compaction technique in group of AH26 sealer. Epoxy resin sealer [AH26] and obtura II gave the best results in coronal sealing when compared with Zinc oxide euginol sealer and cold lateral compaction technique

relative frequency and histopathological pattern of ovarian masses

Ovarian tumours are one of the major causes of gynaecological problems in females and present marked variation in their histological types. Relative frequency of these lesions is different for Western and Asian countries. This study was designed to find out frequency of various histological patterns of ovarian tumors in patients attending Pathology Department of a teaching institute in Lahore. A retrospective case - series study was conducted on 212 cases of ovarian masses, reported from January 2007 to December 2010. Mean age of the subjects was 35.6 years, ranging from 4 to 80 years. In a total of 212 cases of ovarian masses, 85 [40.09%] were non-neoplastic and 127 [59.91%] were neoplastic. Among neoplastic lesions, 64.57% [82/127] were benign and 35.43% [45/127] were malignant. The commonest non-neoplastic lesion was luteal cyst [38/85] followed by simple serous cyst [30/85]. The commonest benign tumour was dermoid cyst [31/82] followed by serous cystadenoms [20/82]. The commonest malignant tumour was serous cystadenocarcinoma [11/45] followed by mucinous cystadenocarcinomama [9/45]. Neoplastic lesions were more common than non-neoplastic lesions, while benign tumours outnumbered the malignant ones. The commonest benign tumour was dermoid cyst and malignant was serous cystadenocarcinoma. The commonest non-neoplastic lesion was luteal cyst. Among histological types of ovarian tumours, surface epithelial tumours dominated the other types

Successful resuscitation of an extremely low birth weight premature infant in Delma Island Community Hospital, United Arab Emirates

Because of their physical size and physiological immaturity, resuscitation of extremely very low birth weight premature infants is a big dilemma for neonatologists in any hospital. The resuscitation may present an additional challenge to the caregiver if it is undertaken in a remote community hospital with limited technical facilities and health personnel. We present the case of successful resuscitation of a 23-week- old premature infant, with a birth weight of 650 g, at Delma Island Community Hospital, United Arab Emirates. Despite the comparatively limited facilities for such a resuscitation, the rapid ethical decisions made when considering the resuscitation of such a borderline viable fetus, were key in avoiding long term neurological and pulmonary problems and contributed to the outcome of a healthy infant

Comparative study of physical activity of hypertensives and normotensives: a cross-sectional study of adults in Saudi Arabia

quantify the magnitude of the disease and its risk factors. The patterns of physical activity have not been studied in terms of their being a risk factor or a predictor of hypertension in Saudi Arabia. This was a community-based cross-sectional study using the STEP-wise approach of adults and Q a multistage, stratified, cluster random sample. Data were collected using a questionnaire which included sociodemographics, blood pressure, patterns, levels and duration of physical activity. Of a total DC of 4758, 1213 [25.5%] were hypertensives. Hypertension was significantly negatively associated with total Vl. levels and duration of physical activity in leisure, transport, and work. Significant predictors of hypertension Q] included lower levels of work involving a moderate physical activity for 10 min, walking/cycling for 10 min

Obturation of internally prepared cavities [simulating internal resorption] with three different techniques

There is controversy as to which instrumentation and/or obturation techniques to choose for the treatment of the internal resorption defects. This in vitro study compared the instrumentation and obturation quality of simulated internal resorption cavities [IRC] with 3 different techniques. Ninety extracted human roots were used and sectioned transversely 5 mm from the apex and hemi-circular cavities were prepared in both sections. The sections were glued back together using superglue and embedded in plaster mold, thus obtaining root canals with cavities simulating internal resorption. The samples were randomly divided into 3 groups of 30 roots and instrumented by protaper rotary files, hybrid technique, or stepback technique, then each group subdivided into three subgroups of 10 roots and obturated with cold lateral condensation, warm vertical compaction, or injectable thermoplasticized technique. After obturation, the samples were radiographed in Bucco-lingual and Mesiodistal view. After that, the plaster molds were removed, and the samples were then sectioned at the previous level and the quality of the obturation of the IRC were viewed under stereomicroscope. There was highly significant difference between protaper rotary files compared with hybrid and stepback techniques. The results of obturation techniques radiographically and by stereomicroscope showed that there was highly significant difference in between injectable thermo-plasticized compared with other two techniques. The pro-taper rotary files and injectable thermo-plasticized technique gave the best results for treatment of simulated internal resorption cavities [IRC]

Prevalence and associated factors of cigarette smoking among medical students at King Fahad Medical City in Riyadh of Saudi Arabia

To determine the prevalence of smoking among medical students at the medical college at King Fahad Medical City in Riyadh, and assess the association between smoking and socio-demographical factors, smoking contacts, reasons for smoking and attempts to quit. Cross-sectional survey in which anonymous, self-administered questionnaire was used to survey the cigarette smoking habits of the first-and second-year medical students in the Faculty of Medicine, King Fahad Medical City in June 2009. Overall 39.8% of the investigated students [153] had smoked before, and 17.6% were current smokers. The mean age of initiating smoking was 15.8 +/- 3.3]. There were significantly more males than females. The most important reasons for smoking were leisure, imitation of other people and a means of relieving psychological pressure. Reasons for not smoking were mostly health and religion-based. Smokers tended to have friends who smoked. Cigarettes smoking is highly prevalent among medical students in the Faculty of Medicine, King Fahad Medical City. Contact with smokers particularly friends are the major risk factors for the initiation of the habit. Health and religious considerations are important motives for not smoking, quitting or attempting to quit. These findings can be of help in designing future intervention strategies

Effect of planting dates on stages and some characteristics of growth of four sunflower hybrids [Helianthus annus L.]

This work was designed to study the effect of planting dates on the growth stages and some growth characteristics of four sunflower hybrids [Helianthus annus L.]. An experiment was conducted at Nasser's Faculty of Agricultural Sciences in Tuban Delta, Lahej Governorate,Yemen,during each of the two agricultural seasons 2002/2003 and 2003/2004. Each experiment contained twelve treatments which were the combination of three planting dates [10 September, 10 December and 10 February] and four sunflower hybrids [Aranda, Sunbro, Sunloca and Melody].A split-plots design with three replications was utilized. Plating dates were allotted to the main plots, while hybrids of sunflower were devoted to the sup-plots The experimental unit of the area was of 7.2m[2], containing 6 rows [2m long and 60 cm apart].The experimental results revealed the following finding: there were significant effects of planting dates and sunflower hybrids on the growth stages at two growing seasons. In context, the results indicated that planting dates at either 10 September or 10 February led to significantly decreased number of days from plating to 50% appearing of head-flower, days to 50% flowering, days to 50% physiological maturity and harvest in two seasons. In contrast, results mentioned that planting dates at 10 September and 10 February gave significant increase in plant height and number of leaves per plant at two growing seasons, while stem diameter was significantly increased in the second seasons only. With respect to sunflower hybrids the results showed that all sunflower hybrids had significant effect on the number of days to 50% appearing of head-flower [capitulum's], flowering physiological maturity and harvest in two seasons. Noteworthy, the results showed that Sunbro and Sunloca of sunflower hybrids gave the earlier plant growth stage compared with other hybrids at both growing seasons. The interaction effect between planting dates and sunflower hybrids was significantly affected in all different stages of plant growth except days to 50% flowering stages in both seasons, while the interaction effect between planting dates and sunflower hybrids could not reach the level of significance with respect to plant, stem diameter and number of leaves per plant. The interaction of the Sunloca and Sunbro sunflower hybrids planted 10 February gave the earlier days from planting to 50% appearing of head-flower, 50% flowering, 50% physiological maturity and harvest in both growing seasons

Physician as a manager: personal and managerial characteristics, Saudi Arabia

The emergence of physicians' roles in key administrative positions within many King Saudi Arabia health care organizations has represented a major change in the medical profession over the last two decades. This have created a need for physicians who are willing to assume a high level of responsibility for managing evolving health care organizations. The study explores the perception of physician managers regarding their work, personal and managerial characteristics. The data for this study were obtained from a sample of 200 physicians working in management positions in different health care organizations in Riyadh. Physicians were selected at random with probability proportional to size from a list containing managers in all health care organization to participate in the study. Our results indicated that physician managers lack administration skills. No formal training in medical administration and management because management principles are not integrated in the medical context and the majority were experienced in management for less than four years. Very few possess the technical competencies such as strategic planning, financial and economics knowledge. Boredom with medical practice, improvement of personal position and encouragement from others are related to being older, having more years in medicine and interest in medicine is reduced. The finding also supported the notion that physician manager can maintain stable levels of loyality to professional interest and organization. This dual commitment is related to work-related characteristics involving sharing his time favorably to management job and to patient care. To improve their management skills physicians can benefit from management education programs such as those offered by King Saud University

Comparison of physical activity patterns among diabetic and non diabetic adults in Saudi Arabia

Quantifying the magnitude and risk factors of Diabetes Mellitus in the community is essential for all intervention strategies. The objective of this study is to assess physical activity as a risk factor of diabetes mellitus by comparing physical activity patterns of diabetics and non diabetics. A community-based cross-sectional study using STEPwise approach among adults using a multistage, stratified, cluster random sample. Data was collected using a questionnaire which included patterns and durations of physical activity, sociodemographics, and history of diabetes, biochemical and anthropometric measurements. Of the total 4657 subjects, 712[15.3%] were diabetic [369[16%] for males and 343[14.6%] for females]. Of all subjects only 12.1, 20.2 and 46.1% were physically active in recreational, work and transport respectively. Diabetes was significantly negatively associated with total level of physical activity .All lower levels of physical activity in leisure, transport and work were significantly associated with increased risk of diabetes .Physical activity at work and walking or cycling for 10 minutes continuously were significant predictors of diabetes. Diabetes mellitus among adults in associated with lower levels of all patterns of physical activity. Specifically tailored and culturally sensitive physical activity interventions, is necessary for preventing, controlling diabetes. Females, elderly and retired persons need special attention

Natural vegetation at middle and high altitudes region in Lawder and Mukairas, Abyan Governorate, Republic of Yemen

This study aims at identifying the nature of natural vegetation at the middle and high altitudes regions in the area under study .The field study has shown the vegetation affluence of this region, of which 116 plant species, belonging to 86 genera and distributed among 45 families, have been collected .It has also illustrated the prevalence of the communities of herbs, shrubs and dwarf hushes. Moreover, the study has demonstrated that there is a plant variation between Lawder and Mukayras due to the increase in their altitudes. It is worth mentioning that some plant species, such as Anisotes trisulcus, have been extinct [disappeared] in the areas with an altitude of 1500 rns. The region under study is characterized by unique different ecological factors and circumstances: weather and geotopography such as cliffs, slopes and the prevailing rock structures, in addition to the weakness of soil profile with scarce and intermittent rainfall. Besides, it has been noticed that there are some succulents that have been prevailed such as Adenium obesum, Euuphorbia spp. and Caralluma spp

Pilgrims satisfaction with ambulatory health services in Makkah, 2008

The main objective of this study was to assess the level and correlates of patients' satisfaction with ambulatory health services provided for pilgrims during Hajj period in 2008. This was a facility-based, cross-sectional study conducted in the Makkah region during the Hajj season in December 2008. A two-stage technique was used to select 500 patients from those who attended the ambulatory health services. One hundred subjects were selected by systematic random sampling [every fifth] from each of the five hospitals included in the study and asked to fill in a pilot-tested self-administered questionnaire. A total of 487 questionnaires were analyzed. Descriptive statistics and t-test, Mann Whitney test and ANOVA, or Kruskal-Wallis test was used as appropriate after checking for normality. Level of significance level was set to be <0.05 throughout the study. From 478 subjects analyzed, 390 [81.6%] were man, 345 [72.2%] were married, 28.9% had either intermediate or high secondary school education, and 2.4% were skilled laborers. The total satisfaction score for health facilities was 20.45 +/- 4.03 of 25. The satisfaction scores were 20.15 +/- 4.7 of 25 for patient satisfaction with physicians and 21.35 +/- 4.5 for patient satisfaction with paramedical personnel. The overall satisfaction score was 61.5 +/- 4.5 of 75 points. There were significant relations between total satisfaction of health facilities with education level and with occupation [P = 0.012, 0.001, respectively]. The total satisfaction of patients with physicians was significant only with education level. The overall satisfaction score had a significant relation with occupation [P = 0.03], but a borderline relation with the education level [P = 0.056]. Satisfaction with ambulatory Hajj health services is acceptable. Some physicians and waiting area services need special attention to improve satisfaction levels with ambulatory health in the subsequent Hajj seasons