Association Between the Prevalence of Schistosomiasis in Elementary School Students and Their Parental Occupation in Sudan

Global efforts to identify groups at high risk for schistosomiasis have mainly concentrated on identifying their geographical distribution. Investigations on the socioeconomic characteristics of high-risk groups are relatively scarce. This study aimed to explore the associations between schistosomiasis among students and their parents’ occupations. A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted targeting 105,167 students in 1,772 primary schools across Sudan in 2017. From these students, 100,726 urine and 96,634 stool samples were collected to test for Schistosoma haematobium and S. mansoni infection. A multi-level mixed effect analysis was used with age and sex as fixed factors, and school as a random factor. The odd ratios (ORs) of practicing open defecation among farmers’ children were almost 5 times higher than their counterparts whose parents were government officials (OR=4.97, 95% confidence intervals (CIs): 4.57-5.42, P<0.001). The ORs of contacting water bodies for watering livestock among farmers’ children were more than 4 times higher than those of children whose parents were government officials (OR=4.59, 95% CIs: 4.02-5.24, P<0.001). This study shows that schistosomiasis represents a disease of poverty and that farmers’ children constituted a high-risk group.

Comparison of the Change in the Prevalence and Intensity of Schistosoma haematobium Infection Between High and Low Prevalence Areas of White Nile State, Sudan

This study aimed to investigate whether mass drug administration (MDA) intervention has an equivalent effect on reducing the prevalence and intensity of Schistosoma haematobium infection regardless of the baseline values. A repeated cross-sectional survey was performed targeting students of 12 primary schools in Al Jabalain and El Salam districts of White Nile State, Sudan, at both 1 week before and 8 months after the MDA. Prior to the baseline survey, school-aged children in Al Jabalain had received MDA interventions twice in 4 years, while those in El Salam had not. The baseline prevalence was 9.1% in Al Jabalain and 35.2% in El Salam, which were reduced to 1.8% and 5.5% at 8 months after the MDA, respectively. The corresponding reduction rates were 80.3% and 84.4%, not significant difference between both districts. However, changes in the geometric mean intensity (GMI) of egg counts were significantly different between both districts. The baseline GMIs were 14.5 eggs per 10 ml of urine (EP10) in Al Jabalain and 18.5 EP10 in El Salam, which were reduced to 7.1 and 11.2 EP10 after treatment, respectively. The corresponding reduction rates were 51.0% and 39.5%. In conclusion, MDA interventions were found to bring about similar relative reduction in prevalence regardless of the baseline value; however, the relative reduction in infection intensity was more salient in the district with a low baseline value for both prevalence and intensity. This clearly points to the importance of repeated MDA interventions in endemic areas, which will eventually contribute to schistosomiasis elimination.

The effect of ketamine as adjuvant in ultrasonic guided Supraclavicular brachial plexus block

Background: in orthopedic procedures more blood is lost from raw bone and muscle surface than from identifiable blood vessels. Moderate hypotensive anesthesia was found to significantly decrease the average blood loss by nearly 40%, reduce the need for transfusion by 45% and shorten the average operating time by nearly 10%. Objective: The aim of the current study was to compare magnesium sulphate and dexmedetomidine with nitroglycerin as regard hypotensive effect as primary outcome, volume of blood loss, blood substitution and pattern of recovery as secondary outcome during lumbar spine surgery. Patients and Methods: This prospective, controlled, comperative, randomized, double blind study included a total of ninty patients aged 21-50 years of both sex, ASA I-II scheduled for elective lumber spine surgery, attending at Department of Orthopedic, AL-Azher university Hospital in Assuit as single center study. Patients have received either dexmedetomidine, magnesium sulfate or nitroglycerine. Results: There were highly significant difference (P <0.000) with duration of surgery between different study groups with duration of surgery shortest in dexmedetomidine group followed by magnesium sulfate group and then nitroglycerine group. There were highly significant differences between different study groups with fluid maintenance with higher volume in nitroglycerine group then magnesium sulfate group and then dexmedetomidine group. There were highly significant differences (P <0.000) with systolic blood pressure between study groups at A1 and hypotensive agent discontinuation with lowest systolic blood pressure in dexmedetomidine group followed by magnesium sulfate group and then nitroglycerine group. Conclusion: nitroglycerine, magnesium sulfate and dexmedetomidine could induce hypotension, but dexmedetomidine showed more favorable hemodynamic profile as regard blood pressure and heart rate

Modulated Gene Expression of Toxoplasma gondii Infected Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cell Line (ARPE-19) via PI3K/Akt or mTOR Signal Pathway

Due to the critical location and physiological activities of the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell, it is constantly subjected to contact with various infectious agents and inflammatory mediators. However, little is known about the signaling events in RPE involved in Toxoplasma gondii infection and development. The aim of the study is to screen the host mRNA transcriptional change of 3 inflammation-related gene categories, PI3K/Akt pathway regulatory components, blood vessel development factors and ROS regulators, to prove that PI3K/Akt or mTOR signaling pathway play an essential role in regulating the selected inflammation-related genes. The selected genes include PH domain and leucine- rich-repeat protein phosphatases (PHLPP), casein kinase2 (CK2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), glutamate-cysteine ligase (GCL), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase (NQO1). Using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), we found that T. gondii up-regulates PHLPP2, CK2β, VEGF, GCL, GST, and NQO1 gene expression levels, but down-regulates PHLPP1 and PEDF mRNA transcription levels. PI3K inhibition and mTOR inhibition by specific inhibitors showed that most of these host gene expression patterns were due to activation of PI3K/Akt or mTOR pathways with some exceptional cases. Taken together, our results reveal a new molecular mechanism of these gene expression change dependent on PI3K/Akt or mTOR pathways and highlight more systematical insight of how an intracellular T. gondii can manipulate host genes to avoid host defense.

Preoperative pregabalin prolongs duration of spinal anesthesia and reduces early postoperative pain

Background: Various adjuvants have been used to prolong spinal anesthesia, with the additional advantages of delaying the onset of postoperative pain and reducing postoperative analgesic requirements. Pregabalin is an R-aminobutyric acid analog that binds to the á2-ä subunit of presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels

Objective: The aim of this work is to evaluate the efficacy of a single dose of pregabalin in terms of spinal blockade duration and its potential opioid-sparing effect during the first 24 hours postoperatively

Patients and Methods: There were limitations to the present study. First, since only 1 dosage of pregabalin was evaluated, we could not determine the most effective dosage. Second, clinically meaningful improvements in recovery were not assessed. Adequate postoperative pain control provides early postsurgical mobilization, shortened hospitalization, and increased patient satisfaction. Third, preoperative pain and anxiety scores were not recorded. Pregabalin might affect the preoperative pain, mood, and anxiety scores, and these factors can be related to the postoperative pain score

Results: The mechanisms by which pregabalin premedication prolongs motor and sensory blocks using local anesthetics in spinal anesthesia are not fully understood. There may be several reasons for the prolongation of spinal anesthesia. Gabapentinoids are an r-aminobutyric acid analog that binds to Alpha2-Delta subunit of presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels, and this inhibition decreases postsynaptic excitability by reducing potassium-evoked excitatory transmitter release. These medications provide antiepileptic, anxiolytic, and analgesic features by modulating both GABAergic neurotransmission and calcium influx. Gabapentinoid compounds produce a significant and clinically important improvement in preoperative anxiety scores. Since patients may be anxious in the perioperative period, the anxiolytic effects and euphorigenic effects of pregabalin may be beneficial

Fat pattern and its relation to glycated hemoglobin in Egyptian diabetic children

Background/aim: obesity and type 1 diabetes mellitus are the two most common conditions of altered metabolism in children and adolescents. We aimed to assess the fat distribution in diabetic children using different anthropometric measures and indices [mid-upper arm circumference, waist circumference, waist/hip and waist/height ratios] and their correlation with glycated Hb [HbA1c]

Patients and methods: this is a cross-sectional observational study conducted on 100 diabetic children aged 7-18 years, with established type 1 diabetes mellitus. Their mean HbA1c is less than 12.0% during the year before the study visit. Anthropometric measurements [weight, height, BMI, and waist and hip circumferences], BMI, and waist/height and waist/hip ratios were calculated as well as body composition

Results: the mean age of the whole sample was 10.88 +/- 2.55 years, with a mean HbA1c of 8.83 +/- 1.61. The mean age at onset was 8.10 +/- 3.51 years, with a mean duration of disease of 2.85 +/- 2.45 years. According to the BMI percentiles, 10% of children were overweight, 10% were underweight, and 80% were normal weight. Fat% in the uncontrolled group was insignificant higher than those of the controlled group. Waist and hip circumferences showed higher values in the uncontrolled group than those of the controlled group. The waist/height ratio was on the borderline to develop central obesity [waist/height ratio >/= 0.5]

Conclusion: onset at earlier age and longer duration of the disease are considered risk factors to have uncontrolled diabetes with HbA1c greater than 7.5. It is not mandatory to become overweight or obese in diabetic children. Fat% was higher in uncontrolled than controlled group. Waist and hip circumferences as anthropometric tools are better indicators of central obesity than waist/hip ratio in diabetic children

Assessment of corneal thickness in healthy and diseased corneas by different imaging techniques

Background: Accurate measurement of corneal thickness [CT] is highly important in decision making and planning for refractive surgery. It is also important in diagnosis of keratoconus, measuring intraocular pressure and monitoring corneal edema. Different methods are available for CT measurement including optical and ultrasound based techniques

Aim of the Study: was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of optical [AS OCT and Pentacam] and ultrasound imaging systems [USP] in measuring corneal thickness in healthy and diseased corneas

Materials and Methodology: Three groups were included: 20 healthy corneas, 20 eyes with keratoconus [KC] and 20 eyes with corneal scars. In all cases central corneal thickness [CCT] was measured using ultrasound pachymetry, Pentacam and anterior segment optical coherence tomography [AS OCT]

Results: In normal corneas the mean difference [MD] between US and Pentacam, US and OCT and Pentacam and OCT [-1.3+/-9.4, 0.4+/-10.4 and1.7+/-10.7microm] to be statistically insignificant between the 3 pairs with coefficient of determination 1 between the 3 pairs. In KC group the mean difference [MD] between US and Pentacam [-7.7+/-15.1 microm] was statistically significant while the MD between US and OCT and Pentacam and OCT [4.7+/-15.7 and 12.3+/-14.1 microm] was not statistically significant. In scar group the MD between the 3 pairs [-1.1+/-79.1, -13.6+/-20.8 and-12.5+/-73.0] with statistically significant difference between USP and OCT. Coefficient of determination was found 0.9

Conclusion: USP, AS OCT and Pentacam have high agreement regarding CCT measurement in normal corneas. However, when we studied KC and scarred corneas we found that OCT measurements are higher than those of Pentacam in most of the cases regarding CCT

IL-12 and IL-23 Production in Toxoplasma gondii- or LPS-Treated Jurkat T Cells via PI3K and MAPK Signaling Pathways

IL-12 and IL-23 are closely related in structure, and have been shown to play crucial roles in regulation of immune responses. However, little is known about the regulation of these cytokines in T cells. Here, we investigated the roles of PI3K and MAPK pathways in IL-12 and IL-23 production in human Jurkat T cells in response to Toxoplasma gondii and LPS. IL-12 and IL-23 production was significantly increased in T cells after stimulation with T. gondii or LPS. T. gondii and LPS increased the phosphorylation of AKT, ERK1/2, p38 MAPK, and JNK1/2 in T cells from 10 min post-stimulation, and peaked at 30–60 min. Inhibition of the PI3K pathway reduced IL-12 and IL-23 production in T. gondii-infected cells, but increased in LPS-stimulated cells. IL-12 and IL-23 production was significantly reduced by ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK inhibitors in T. gondii- and LPS-stimulated cells, but not in cells treated with a JNK1/2 inhibitor. Collectively, IL-12 and IL-23 production was positively regulated by PI3K and JNK1/2 in T. gondii-infected Jurkat cells, but negatively regulated in LPS-stimulated cells. And ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK positively regulated IL-12 and IL-23 production in Jurkat T cells. These data indicate that T. gondii and LPS induced IL-12 and IL-23 production in Jurkat T cells through the regulation of the PI3K and MAPK pathways; however, the mechanism underlying the stimulation of IL-12 and IL-23 production by T. gondii in Jurkat T cells is different from that of LPS.

Role of diffusion weighted MRI sequence in evaluation of cholangiocarcinoma

Background: cholangiocarcinoma requires accurate diagnosis, which relies on appropriate imaging and image-guided biopsy. Diffusion weighted MRI is a relative new and increasingly used technique. It can be obtained during a single breath-hold, there is no need to use contrast media and it provides information that reflects tissue cellularity and organization. ADC maps can provide quantitative measurements of tissue water diffusivity. It proved to be helpful in the characterization of cholangiocarcinoma

FibroScan, APRI, FIB4, and GUCI: Role in prediction of fibrosis and response to therapy in Egyptian patients with HCV infection

Background and study aims: Multiple noninvasive methods have been used successfully in the prediction of fibrosis. However, their role in the prediction of response to hepatitis C virus [HCV] antiviral therapy is debatable. The aim of this study was to validate and compare the diagnostic performance of FibroScan, APRl [aspartate aminotransferase [AST]-to-platelet ratio index], FIB4, and GUCI [Goteborg University Cirrhosis Index] for the prediction of hepatic fibrosis and treatment outcome in HCV-infected patients receiving pegylated interferon and ribavirin [PEG-IFN/ribavirin]

Patients and methods: this study included 182 Egyptian patients with chronic HCV infection. They were classified into two groups based on the stages of fibrosis: mild to significant fibrosis [F1-F2] and advanved fibrosis [F3-F4]. The APRI, FIB4, and GUCI scores were calculated before the antiviral treatment. The FibroScan was performed for all patients before treatment

Results: stiffness and FIB4 have greater sensitivity and specificity in detecting advanced fibrosis of 80%, 77% and 88%, 84%, respectively. Based on multivariate regression analysis, FIB4, body mass index [BMI], and alpha-fetoprotein [AFP] level were found to be statistically significant predicators of advanced fibrosis [p-value: 0.000, 0.011, and 0.001, respectively] with odds ratio [OR: 3.184, 1.170, and 1.241, respectively]. With respect to virological response, the stiffness, APRI, FIB4, and GUCI were significantly lower in sustained virological responders. However, these are not good predictors of response to PEG-IFN/ribavirin therapy. AFP was the only statistically significant predictor of response [p = 0.002] with OR of 1.141 in multivariate regression analysis

Conclution: FibroScan and noninvasive scores such as APRI, FIB4, and GUCI can be used as good predictors of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C. However, they are not good predictors of response to PEG-IFN/ribavirin therapy

Association of intraocular pressure with cataract surgery

Background and objective: Cataract and glaucoma are common co-morbidities and are the first and the second leading causes of blindness worldwide. There are many reasons to consider cataract extraction in individuals with cataract. These individuals derive great visual benefit from the increased acuity and improved contrast sensitivity provided by a clear artificial lens. An improvement in vision allows for more accurate visual field monitoring, and a clear optical pathway enhances the quality and reproducibility of optic nerve imaging. This study aimed to determine the association between intraocular pressure with cataract surgery in human eyes by monitoring changes in intraocular pressure in patients who underwent cataract surgery at Hawler Teaching Hospital at Erbil

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 71 subjects that underwent cataract surgery at Hawler Teaching Hospital at Erbil city from April 2013 to April 2014. Full ophthalmic examination including intraocular pressure measurement was done to every participant before cataract surgery, one week and one month after surgery

Results: Paired samples t-test showed highly significance difference [P <0.001] between mean intraocular pressure measurements before, one week and one month after cataract surgery. The average decrease in postoperative intraocular pressure from preoperative intraocular pressure during one month was 2.02mm Hg [12.39%]

Conclusion: Cataract surgery reduces intraocular pressure and can be considered as an effective way to manage patients with a concurrence of glaucoma and cataracts

Genetic Diversity of Schistosoma haematobium Eggs Isolated from Human Urine in Sudan

The genetic diversity of Schistosoma haematobium remains largely unstudied in comparison to that of Schistosoma mansoni. To characterize the extent of genetic diversity in S. haematobium among its definitive host (humans), we collected S. haematobium eggs from the urine of 73 infected schoolchildren at 5 primary schools in White Nile State, Sudan, and then performed a randomly amplified polymorphic DNA marker ITS2 by PCR-RFLP analysis. Among 73 S. haematobium egg-positive cases, 13 were selected based on the presence of the S. haematobium satellite markers A4 and B2 in their genomic DNA, and used for RFLP analysis. The 13 samples were subjected to an RFLP analysis of the S. haematobium ITS2 region; however, there was no variation in size among the fragments. Compared to the ITS2 sequences obtained for S. haematobium from Kenya, the nucleotide sequences of the ITS2 regions of S. haematobium from 4 areas in Sudan were consistent with those from Kenya (> 99%). In this study, we demonstrate for the first time that most of the S. haematobium population in Sudan consists of a pan-African S. haematobium genotype; however, we also report the discovery of Kenyan strain inflow into White Nile, Sudan.

relation between central corneal thickness and axial length in a sample of Erbil population

Background and objective: A thin central corneal thickness has been reported to be a risk factor for developing primary open-angle glaucoma. This has led to a hypothesis that thinning of the cornea may be an indication of generalized weakness of the ocular integument. This study was conducted to explore the relationship between central corneal thickness and axial length in a sample of Erbil population

Methods: This is an observational cross sectional prospective study that was conducted from October 2012 to March 2013 and included 260 eyes of 130 patients. The mean age [+/- SD] was 37.8 +/- 17.7 years for males and 35.4 +/- 15.5 years for females. Axial length was measured with A-scan ultrasound biometry and central corneal thickness with ultrasonic Pachymeter

Results: The mean central corneal thickness [+/- SD] was 542.8 +/- 36 microm in male eyes and 530.1 +/- 32.5 microm in female eyes. The mean axial length [+/- SD] was 23.38 +/- 1.1 mm in male eyes, 23.15 +/- 1.2 mm in female eyes. Central corneal thickness was not correlated with axial length [Pearson correlation coefficient r = 0.037, P = 0.558]

Conclusion: Central corneal thickness and axial length of the eye are two independent measurements. Thin corneas are not related to longer eye

Fasciola hepatica in Snails Collected from Water-Dropwort Fields using PCR

Fasciola hepatica is a trematode that causes zoonosis mainly in cattle and sheep and occasionally in humans. Fascioliasis has been reported in Korea; however, determining F. hepatica infection in snails has not been done recently. Thus, using PCR, we evaluated the prevalence of F. hepatica infection in snails at 4 large water-dropwort fields. Among 349 examined snails, F. hepatica-specific internal transcribed space 1 (ITS-1) and/or ITS-2 markers were detected in 12 snails and confirmed using sequence analysis. Morphologically, 213 of 349 collected snails were dextral shelled, which is the same aperture as the lymnaeid snail, the vectorial host for F. hepatica. Among the 12 F. hepatica-infected snails, 6 were known first intermediate hosts in Korea (Lymnaea viridis and L. ollula) and the remaining 6 (Lymnaea sp.) were potentially a new first intermediate host in Korea. It has been shown that the overall prevalence of the snails contaminated with F. hepatica in water-dropwort fields was 3.4%; however, the prevalence varied among the fields. This is the first study to estimate the prevalence of F. hepatica infection using the vectorial capacity of the snails in Korea.

Antimicrobial activity of latex silver nanoparticles using Calotropis procera

Objective: To synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by green methods using serum latex of Calotropis procera at 80 °C and evaluate them against bacteria, dermatophytes and phytopathogenic fungi comparing with the activity of untreated latex. Methods: The synthesis of AgNPs was performed by mixing 3% latex serum extract with the same volume of silver nitrate (2 mmol/L) solution in round flask and heating in water bath at 80°C. Characterization of silver particles were determined using UV-vis spectrophotometer, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The antimicrobial activity of the green synthesized AgNPs was determined against bacteria, dermatophytes and phytopathogenic fungi and compared to the crude untreated latex by agar-well diffusion methods. Results: Biosynthesis of latex silver nanoparticles was successfully obtained by green method. The formation of AgNPs has been confirmed by UV-vis, TEM microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. TEM analysis showed that synthesized AgNPs are highly stable spherical shaped particles, well dispersed with a diameter ranged from 4 nm up to 25 nm and an average size of 12.33 nm. AgNPs showed strong antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Serratia sp.) and antifungal activity against Trichophyton rubrum, Candida albicans and Aspergillus terreus. Conclusions: It can be concluded that serum latex of Calotropis procera was found to display strong potential for the synthesis of AgNPs as antimicrobial agents through rapid reduction of silver ions (Ag

Bidirectional Glenn anastomosis in staged treatment of patients with single ventricle: comparison between on-pump and off-pump technique

Introduction of the bidirectional Glenn procedure in patients with functional single ventricle [BDG] in Fontan candidates would improve clinical outcomes for all candidates underwent BDG and staged Fontan operation [total cavopulmonary connection TCPC]. We discuss indications for the bidirectional cavopuimonary connection. The Bi-directional Cavo-pulmonary [Glenn,] shunt is Commonly Performed Procedure for a variety of Cyanotic Congenital heart diseases that lead eventually to single ventricle repair. We report and Compare the results of Bi-directional Glenn operation done in University of Leipzig, heart Centre. Germany and Assiut University Paediatric Heart Surgery Centre, Egypt. Between November 2008 and July 2010 in Leipzig heart Centre and between March 2010 and March 2012 in Assiut University Paediatric Heart Surgery Centre, 26 patients [16 in Leipzig and 10 in Assiut] aged 3 months to 5 years received a bidirectional Glenn Shunt with the use of a temporary shunt [in Assiut = Group I] or cardiopulmonary bypass [CPB] [in Leipzig = Group II]. Arterial oxygen saturation rose from 78% +/- 8.5% preoperatively to 90% +/- 4.3% postoperatively. Hemodynamic studies showed a mean postoperative superior vena cava pressure of 13 +/- 2 mm H[2]O. No patient had desaturation and the shunt was taken down, 1 required reexploration for bleeding [Leipzig Group], and 1 needed prolonged drainage of 9 to 19 days [Assiut group], 1 of whom had chylothorax [Assiut group]. Hospital stay, was 9.3 +/- 3.5 days. There were one postoperative deaths [1.8%.] from cerebral haemorrhage [Assiut Group]. The bidirectional Glenn shunt remains an excellent palliative procedure as a preliminary step to a Fontan operation, or as an integral part of a Fontan or modified Fontan operation when the procedure is deferred because of age, weight, or cardiac malformations characterized by a hypoplastic right or left ventricle

Gene Expression Profiles in Genetically Different Mice Infected with Toxoplasma gondii: ALDH1A2, BEX2, EGR2, CCL3 and PLAU

Toxoplasma gondii can modulate host cell gene expression; however, determining gene expression levels in intermediate hosts after T. gondii infection is not known much. We selected 5 genes (ALDH1A2, BEX2, CCL3, EGR2 and PLAU) and compared the mRNA expression levels in the spleen, liver, lung and small intestine of genetically different mice infected with T. gondii. ALDH1A2 mRNA expressions of both mouse strains were markedly increased at day 1-4 postinfection (PI) and then decreased, and its expressions in the spleen and lung were significantly higher in C57BL/6 mice than those of BALB/c mice. BEX2 and CCR3 mRNA expressions of both mouse strains were significantly increased from day 7 PI and peaked at day 15-30 PI (P<0.05), especially high in the spleen liver or small intestine of C57BL/6 mice. EGR2 and PLAU mRNA expressions of both mouse strains were significantly increased after infection, especially high in the spleen and liver. However, their expression patterns were varied depending on the tissue and mouse strain. Taken together, T. gondii-susceptible C57BL/6 mice expressed higher levels of these 5 genes than did T. gondii-resistant BALB/c mice, particularly in the spleen and liver. And ALDH1A2 and PLAU expressions were increased acutely, whereas BEX2, CCL3 and EGR2 expressions were increased lately. Thus, these demonstrate that host genetic factors exert a strong impact on the expression of these 5 genes and their expression patterns were varied depending on the gene or tissue.

Intestinal Parasite Infections in Pigs and Beef Cattle in Rural Areas of Chungcheongnam-do, Korea

The present study was performed to investigate the infection status of intestinal parasites in pigs and beef cattle in rural areas of Chungcheongnam-do, Korea. From November 2009 to April 2010, a total of 241 fecal samples of pigs and beef cattle (136 and 105, respectively) were examined by direct smear and centrifugal sedimentation methods. The overall positive rates of intestinal parasites among pigs and beef cattle were 73.5% and 4.8%, respectively, and the double-infection rate was 10.3% in pigs. Of 136 specimens from pigs, Balantidium coli, Ascaris suum, and Entamoeba spp. infections were found in 88 (64.7%), 24 (17.6%), and 5 cases (3.7%), respectively. Of 105 beef cattle, Entamoeba spp. infections were detected in 5 cases (4.8%). From these results, it is shown that pigs raised on rural farms in Chungcheongnam-do had a high B. coli infection rate and a moderate A. suum infection rate. These results demonstrate that environmentally resistant cysts or eggs could be widespread on the farms examined, and thus an effective hygienic management system is needed to prevent them from serving as the source of infection for human beings.

Nutrients intake and nutritional awareness of pregnant women in Cairo Governorate

This study aimed to assess dietary intake and nutrients adequacy in pregnant women during 1[st] and 2[nd] trimester, and to investigate pregnant women nutritional knowledge and aiareness. A sample of 150 pregnant women [30-35] years old from five districts in Cairo have been investigated. Results showed that the mean daily intake of energy, protein and some nutrients were adequate as compared to Recommend Nutrient Intakes [RNI]. However, calcium, iron, foliate, niacin, vitamin C, vitamin A and D intakes, were inadequate for the majority of pregnant women during 1st and 2 trimester. The results indicated that 88.99%, 87.72%, 87.88% and 83.33% were illiterate [I], read and write [R], have secondary school [s] and university [u] degree respectively. Pregnant women had wrong information about proper foods in relation to pregnancy, while those who had correct information, about quantity of foods and nutrient contents of their diet were 3.03%of [s] and 8.33%of [u] educated ones. The study illustrated that 72.22%, 70.18%and 69.70%of [I], [R] and [S] educated level had wrong informations about the importance of dietary supplement of iron and folic acid, while 41.67%of [U] educated pregnant women had correct information. It was found that most of pregnant women had their knowledge about this subject from their family members. Results revealed that the awareness of the issue was very poor. The study suggest intensive nutrition education program to be conducted to improve dietary intakes in order to prevent risks for pregnancy out come

Performance characteristics of different assays for detection of CMV infections in patients with cancer bladder

Recent epidemiological studies have implicated Cytomegalovirus [CMV] infection in the etiology of cancer bladder. The present study was designed to estimate the performance characteristics of different assays, used for identification of CMV infection in schistosomal patients. The study was conducted on sixty cancer bladder patients; thirty five with schistosomiasis [group I] and twenty five without [group II], and twenty control subjects were included [group III]. PCR technique for detection of CMV DNA was performed on bladder tissue, serum, buffy coat and urine. ELISA for detection of IgG and IgM in sera and Antigenemia test and electron miscroscopic studies [EMS] on buffy coat were performed. CMV DNA was significantly detected in group I versus group II by PCR on bladder tissue, buffy coat, and serum respectively. None of the urine samples were positive for CMV DNA. The results of different assays were evaluated in relation to PCR results on tissue biopsies. Antigenemia test showed significant difference between group I versus group II. The EMS was found to increase the sensitivity of PCR on bladder tissue. Both PCR on serum and antigenemia test showed similar sensitivity of 56%, but a specificity of 100% and 81% respectively. In conclusion, the significant association of CMV infection with cancer bladder in Egyptian patients, suggest that the virus may be implicated in the development of such malignant transformation especially in cases with schistosomal affection. Both pp65 antigenemia assay and PCR on serum are two major assays available for diagnosis and monitoring of CMV infections. The EMS could increase the sensitivity and accuracy of PCR on bladder tissue and on buffy coat. Further investigation on a larger number of patients are required in immunodeficient schistosomal cancer bladder patients in order to clarify the role played by CMV in bladder cancer