Recent advances in electrochemical sensors based on nanomaterials for detection of red dyes in food products: A review

Red dyes as Allura Red (E129), Amaranth (E124), Ponceau 4R (E123), Erythrosine (E127) and Carmoisine (E122), are very popular food additives due to their stability, low cost, and minimal microbial contamination. Despite these advantages, their consumption may result in asthma, hyperactivity, carcinogenic effects, etc depending on the uptake and age. Therefore, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have managed the permissions of allowed daily intake (ADI) for consumption levels of these dyes to be 0.01-7.0 mg/kg to assure foodstuffs consumer's safety and avoid their adverse effects. Yet, many countries as Japan and USA have prohibited their use in food and drinks to reduce their possible health risks. Based on the above concentration ranges, highly sensitive and selective detection techniques are required, accordingly, the application of electrochemical sensors for the analysis of these dyes in food samples is very promising due to their superior sensitivity and selectivity, low cost and rapid response compared to traditional spectrophotometric or chromatographic methods. Also, they can be miniaturized, portable and require no complicated sampling or preparation procedures, besides being ecofriendly which allows their commercialization for public consumers in fast detection kits. In this review, the role of nanomaterials such as: carbon-based, transition metal oxides, metal organic frameworks, ionic liquids and others in enhancing the detection properties of modified electrochemical sensors for red dyes will be evaluated in terms of the type of nanomaterial applied, tested food samples and their impact on the evaluation of foodstuffs quality.

Optimized Fabrication of Bimetallic ZnCo Metal-Organic Framework at NiCo-Layered Double Hydroxides for Multiple Storage and Capability Synergy All-Solid-State Supercapacitors

Rational design and structural regulation of hybrid nanomaterials with superior electrochemical performance are crucial for developing sustainable energy storage platforms. Among these materials, NiCo-layered double hydroxides (NiCo-LDHs) demonstrate an exceptional charge storage capabilities owing to their tunable 2D lamellar structure, large interlayer spacing, and rich redox electrochemically active sites. However, NiCo-LDHs still suffer from sever agglomeration of their particles with limited charge transfer rates, resulting in an inadequate rate capability. In this study, bimetallic ZnCo-metal organic framework (MOF) tripods were grown on the surface of NiCo-LDH nanowires, which significantly reduced the self-agglomeration and stacking of the NiCo-LDH nanowire arrays, offering more accessible active sites for charge transfer and shortening the path for ion diffusion. The fabricated hybrid ZnCo-MOF@NiCo-LDH and its individual counterparts were tested as supercapacitor electrodes. The ZnCo-MOF@NiCo-LDH electrode demonstrated a remarkable specific capacitance of 1611 F g^-1 at 2 A g^-1 with an enhanced rate capability of 66% from 2 to 20 A g^-1. Moreover, an asymmetric all solid-state supercapacitor device was constructed using ZnCo-MOF@NiCo-LDH and palm tree-derived activated carbon (P-AC) as positive and negative poles, respectively. The constructed device can store a high specific energy of 44.5 Wh Kg^-1 and deliver a specific power of 876.7 W Kg^-1 with outstanding Columbic efficiency over 10,000 charging/discharging cycles at 15 A g^-1.

Computational and experimental elucidation of the boosted stability and antibacterial activity of ZIF-67 upon optimized encapsulation with polyoxometalates

Water microbial purification is one of the hottest topics that threats human morbidity and mortality. It is indispensable to purify water using antimicrobial agents combined with several technologies and systems. Herein, we introduce a class of nanosized metal organic framework; Zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-67) cages encapsulated with polyoxometalates synthesized via facile one-step co-precipitation method. We employed two types of polyoxometalates bioactive agents; phosphotungstic acid (PTA) and phosphomolybdic acid (PMA) that act as novel antibacterial purification agents. Several characterization techniques were utilized to investigate the morphological, structural, chemical, and physical properties such as FESEM, EDS, FTIR, XRD, and N₂ adsorption/desorption isotherms techniques. The antibacterial assessment was evaluated using colony forming unit (CFU) against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus as models of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, respectively. The PTA@ZIF-67 showed higher microbial inhibition against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by 98.8% and 84.6%, respectively. Furthermore, computational modeling using density functional theory was conducted to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of PTA when compared to PMA. The computational and experimental findings demonstrate that the fabricated POM@ZIF-67 materials exhibited outstanding bactericidal effect against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and effectively purify contaminated water.

Externally tunable multichannel filtering applications of organic material based 1D magnetic cold-plasma photonic crystals

In the present research work, we employed the transfer matrix method (TMM) in addition to MATLAB software to examine the transmission properties of various organic-based one-dimensional (1D) magnetic cold-plasma photonic crystals (MCPPhCs). The proposed structures were found to be made up of periodic layers of organic materials and magnetic cold-plasma (MCP) at normal incidence. An external magnetic field (B) polarized in right-hand (RH) and left-hand (LH) configurations was applied on 1D MCPPhCs. In this study, four organic materials, namely pentane, hexane, heptane, and octane, were chosen to design four 1D photonic crystals (PCs), named as PC₁ (pentane-MCP), PC₂ (hexane-MCP), PC₃ (heptane-MCP), and PC₄ (octane-MCP). Our results indicated that the central frequency of the resonant peaks of unit transmission inside the photonic band-gap (PBG) of the respective organic PCs could be tuned towards the higher or lower frequency side by applying B polarized in RH and LH configurations, respectively. We also studied the effect of the period number N to produce closely spaced N-1 transmission channels of unit transmission inside the PBG of all four organic PCs. By increasing the period number N we could increase the number of transmission channels inside the PBG as per our desire. These multiple resonant peaks of unit transmission inside PBG could be easily modulated inside the PBG to accommodate new frequencies by applying B polarized in either RH or LH configurations, respectively. Moreover, our results showed that under the RH configuration, increasing B resulted in a shifting of the resonant peak towards the higher frequency side with a reduction in its full width half maximum (FWHM), whereas the findings were the opposite in the case of increasing B under the LH configuration. These findings may be beneficial for designing externally tuneable organic chemical sensors in the microwave frequency region.

In the present research work, we employed the transfer matrix method (TMM) in addition to MATLAB software to examine the transmission properties of various organic-based one-dimensional (1D) magnetic cold-plasma photonic crystals (MCPPhCs).

Biological activity of roots and aerial parts of Zinnia peruviana on pathogenic micro-organisms in planktonic state and biofilm forming

Microbial resistance to antibiotics affects the control of clinical infections and is a growing concern in global public health. One important mechanism whereby micro-organisms acquire resistance is biofilm formation. This context has led to the investigation of new antimicrobial substances from plants popularly used in folk medicine. In this work, we studied the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of Zinnia peruviana roots, ziniolide (major root metabolite) and aerial parts against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. The minimum inhibitory and minimum microbicidal concentration and inhibition of biofilm production was determined. All Z. peruviana extracts showed antimicrobial activity, but that corresponding to the roots was the most active one. The best inhibitory and microbicidal activity was detected against Gram-positive bacteria (0·039-0·078 mg ml^-1 ). The acetonic extract from Z. peruviana leaves showed moderate activity against Gram-positive bacteria (0·625 mg ml^-1 ). Acetonic extract of Z. peruviana flowers showed weak activity (1·25-5 mg ml^-1 ). All the extracts tested showed inhibition of biofilm formation, as well as the ziniolide, however, roots and flowers extracts showed higher antibiofilm activity particularly against Staphylococcus, Listeria and Candida. The extracts tested may be a promising natural alternative for the control of microbial infections.

Immunological and histopathological evaluation of Eimeria tenella oocysts Egyptian local isolate vaccine and its comparative efficacy with a commercial live vaccine

Coccidiosis is the most important protozoan disease in broilers all over the world. Controlling of broilers coccidiosis via vaccination rather than chemicals is a new trend with promising results. Thus, the present work describes an evaluation of Eimeria tenella Lab-made vaccine of local Egyptian strain and its comparative efficacy with a commercial live vaccine "Fortegra®". Eighty broiler chickens one day old were used; they were divided in to 4 equal groups; 20 chicks each. Group 1 (G1) kept as control negative, G2 administrated orally with lab-made sporulated oocysts vaccine at 5 days old, the birds of G3 vaccinated orally with Fortegra® at day 6 of age, and G4 served as control positive. All birds were challenge by 50,000 sporulated oocysts of E. tenella at day 21. For testing the efficacy and comparison; OPG (oocyst per gram), serum Interleukin4 (IL4) levels, Immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels in both serum and ceca, cecal lesion score, as well as histopathological changes in ceca of tested groups were evaluated. The results demonstrated significantly elevated IL4 level in serum and IgA level in serum and cecum of G2 than G3. IgA in cecum significantly elevated in G2 than G3. OPG significantly decreased in both vaccinated groups (G2 and G3), and have lower lesion score than nonimmunized group. Cecal tissues of vaccinated groups had mild pathological changes. Conclusively, good immunization by the currently tested vaccine, against experimental E. tenella infection was observed.

The impact of ultrasound in an integrated one-stop sarcoma clinic

AIM

To evaluate the utilisation of ultrasound within a one-stop clinic model in a regional bone and soft-tissue sarcoma centre in the UK, assess its contribution to patient management, and compare diagnostic outcomes to general musculoskeletal "lumps and bumps" clinics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was a retrospective evaluation of 1,918 referrals between October 2016 and September 2018. All ultrasound examinations and biopsies were performed by one of two musculoskeletal sarcoma radiologists. Ultrasound criteria for suspicion of malignancy were agreed. Study parameters included patient demographics, imaging modality, imaging findings, biopsy results, and time intervals. Correlation has been made between imaging findings and biopsy results.

RESULTS

Five hundred and twenty-four patients (27%) underwent diagnostic ultrasound within the one-stop clinic, out of which 244 (46.5%) underwent an ultrasound-guided biopsy within the same appointment. From this cohort, 412 (78.6%) were given a likely benign diagnosis, either based on imaging alone or in combination with an ultrasound-guided biopsy and a histologically malignant diagnosis was made in the remaining 112 (21.4%). Diagnostic ultrasound within the one-stop sarcoma clinic has a positive predictive value of 86%, negative predictive value of 97%, and sensitivity of 89%.

CONCLUSION

Integration of ultrasound within a one-stop sarcoma clinic provides rapid diagnostic imaging input within the outpatient setting and facilitates early effective triaging of patients into appropriate management plans. It reduces waiting times, unnecessary outpatient appointments and short-term patient anxiety. Clinical and communications skills of the sarcoma radiologist are of paramount importance to improving overall efficiency and patient experience.

Recent advances in the use of TiO2 nanotube powder in biological, environmental, and energy applications

The use of titanium dioxide nanotubes in the powder form (TNTP) has been a hot topic for the past few decades in many applications. The high quality of the fabricated TNTP by various synthetic routes may meet the required threshold of performance in a plethora of fields such as drug delivery, sensors, supercapacitors, and photocatalytic applications. This review briefly discusses the synthesis techniques of TNTP, their use in various applications, and future perspectives to expand their use in more applications.

The impact of importation of live ruminants on the epizootiology of foot and mouth disease in Saudi Arabia

Approximately five million live ruminants are imported annually into Saudi Arabia. The majority of these animals are imported shortly before the pilgrimage season from Sudan and the Horn of Africa, where foot and mouth disease (FMD) is known to be enzootic. This study was designed to investigate the impact of the importation of these live ruminants on the epizootiology of FMD in Saudi Arabia. The authors carried out antibody testing on a total of 480 sheep and 233 cattle from the sacrificial livestock yards of the Saudi Project for Utilization of Hajj Meat, which performs ritual slaughter on behalf of pilgrims in the Holy City of Makkah. The results revealed that 136 (28.3%) of the 480 sheep tested were serologically positive for FMD, using an indirect enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (3ABC FMD ELISA). This included 17.7% of Sawakani sheep (imported from Sudan) and 40.9% of Barbari sheep (imported from the Horn of Africa). Among the cattle, 120 (51.5%) of 233 animals tested positive for FMD virus (FMDV) antibodies. The 120 seropositive cattle included all clinically suspected cattle and 62 (35.4%) symptom-free, in-contact cattle. The findings highlight the risks associated with the annual importation of live ruminants from FMD-enzootic areas. The risks include the possible introduction of new exotic FMDV serotypes, particularly when potential carriers or subclinically infected animals are considered. An understanding of the epidemiology of different strains and the ability to track their movement between geographical regions is essential for the development of efficient control strategies for the disease. Therefore, genotyping of FMDV strains isolated from imported and local animals is recommended.

On the nature of defect states in tungstate nanoflake arrays as promising photoanodes in solar fuel cells

An electrochemical method is presented to study the nature of the defect states in sub-stoichiometric tungsten oxide nanoflake photoanodes used in water splitting.

Seroepidemiological survey on Rift Valley fever among small ruminants and their close human contacts in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, in 2011

This study describes a seroepidemiological survey on Rift Valley fever (RVF) among small ruminants and their close human contacts in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A total of 500 small ruminants (126 local, 374 imported) were randomly selected from the sacrifice livestock yards of Al-Kaakiah slaughterhouse, in the holy city of Makkah, during the pilgrimage season 1432 H (4-9 November 2011). In addition, blood samples were collected from 100 local workers in close contact with the animals at the slaughterhouse. An RVF competition multi-species enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detecting anti-RVF virus immunoglobulin G (IgG)/ immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies and an RVF IgM-specific ELISA were used for serological investigations. In total, 84 (16.8%) of the 500 sacrificial sheep and goats tested seropositive in the competition ELISA but no IgM antibodies were detected in the IgM-specific assay. All seropositive samples, comprising 17.91% of the imported animals and 13.49% of the local ones, were therefore designated positive for anti-RVF virus IgG antibody. Among the local personnel working in close contact with the animals, 9% tested seropositive in the RVF competition ELISA. The study indicates that two factors may increase the likelihood of an RVF outbreak among sacrificial animals and pilgrims: i) the large-scale importation of small ruminants into Saudi Arabia from the Horn of Africa shortly before the pilgrimage season, and ii) the movement of animals within Saudi Arabia, from the RVF-endemic south-western area (Jizan region) to the Makkah region, particularly in the few weeks before the pilgrimage season. From these findings, it is recommended that i) all regulations concerning the import of animals into Saudi Arabia from Africa should be rigorously applied, particularly the RVF vaccination of all ruminants destined for export at least two weeks before exportation, and ii) the movement of animals from the RVF-endemic south-western area (Jizan region) of Saudi Arabia to the Makkah region should be strictly prohibited.

Amelioration of cardiotoxic impacts of diclofenac sodium by vitamin B complex

OBJECTIVE

The safety of Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) use in clinical practice has been questioned. Clinical studies indicate that these drugs cause adverse cardiovascular effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective role of vitamin B complex against the cardiotoxic potency of diclofenac sodium induced cardiac damage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diclofenac sodium was administered intraperitoneally to rats at either 1.5 mg or 3 mg/kg body weight for 14 consecutive days. Vitamin B complex (1.6 mg B1, 1.6 mg B6 and 16.7 µg B12/kg body weight, i.p.) was co-administered daily for 3 weeks along with diclofenac administration to rats intoxicated by either of the two doses.

RESULTS

The results revealed that co-administration of vitamin B complex with diclofenac to rats intoxicated by either of the two doses, markedly ameliorated increases in serum markers of cardiac damage, including, (AST), creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) as well as decreases in phosphoglucoisomerase (PGI) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities in cardiac tissue compared with intoxicated rats. The B complex also could markedly attenuate the decreases in cardiac antioxidant enzymes namely, glutathione reductase (GR), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH) and catalase (CAT) compared with diclofenac intoxicated rats. Beside, the vitamin B complex successfully modulated the increases in serum glucose, serum lipid profiles, triglycerides (TGs), total cholesterol (TCh) and low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) as well as the decrease in the high density lipoprotein (HDL-C) in response to diclofenac toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

These results support the use of vitamin B complex along with diclofenac therapy as a protective agent against cardiac tissue damage induced by diclofenac toxicity.

Modulation of the oxidative stress by metformin in the cerebrum of rats exposed to global cerebral ischemia and ischemia/reperfusion

OBJECTIVES

Oxidative stress plays a major role in the pathogenesis of ischemic and reperfusion injury to many organs, including the brain. Chronic metformin treatment is associated with a lower risk of stroke in clinical populations. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of metformin on the oxidative stress induced in experimental model of incomplete global cerebral ischemia and ischemia/reperfusion in adult male Wistar rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Metformin was administered to rats orally by gavage 500 mg/kg once daily for one week before induction of cerebral ischemia (rats were subjected to 30 min of ischemia before decapitation) and ischemia/reperfusion (rats were subjected to 30 min of ischemia then 60 minutes of reperfusion before decapitation). The selected parameters for oxidative stress were the activities of the antioxidant enzymes: glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) levels.

RESULTS

Metformin reduced the elevated activites of GSHPx, SOD and catalase as well as MDA levels in cerebrum of rats exposed to ischemia and ischemia/reperfusion injures.

CONCLUSIONS

Metformin improved the oxidative stress induced by ischemia and ischemia/reperfusion injuries. This may be a mechanism that explains the cerebroprotective effect of the drug.

Ionising radiation exposure in paediatric trauma

INTRODUCTION

Trauma remains the highest cause of paediatric morbidity and mortality. These trauma patients incur radiation exposure during intraoperative management. Medical personnel have the responsibility to ensure observation of the 'as low as reasonably achievable' principle, a practice mandate that minimises ionising radiation exposure. The aim of this study was to quantify the difference in the amount of ionising radiation used by operating surgeons of different grades in paediatric trauma surgery.

METHODS

Intraoperative imaging in paediatric trauma surgery between 2008 and 2010 at a UK trauma centre was analysed retrospectively, recording injury demographics, surgeon grade, radiation exposure (dose area product [DAP]) and screening time. A mobile image intensifier was used in all cases and the lowest dose rate was selected for all screening.

RESULTS

A total of 782 trauma cases were analysed: 304 procedures (39%) were carried out by consultants, 127 (16%) by senior registrars and 351 (45%) by junior registrars. The mean screening time for consultants was 0.23 minutes (standard deviation [SD]: 0.21 minutes) while for senior registrars it was 0.24 minutes (SD: 0.27 minutes) and for junior registrars 0.47 minutes (SD: 1.5 minutes). The mean DAP for consultants was 58.49Gycm(2) (SD: 53.66Gycm(2)). For senior registrars it was 87.2Gycm(2) (SD: 126.64Gycm(2)) and for junior registrars it was 90.46Gycm(2) (SD: 180.02Gycm(2)). This equates to a 51% increase in screening time and a 35% increase in DAP by a junior registrar compared with a consultant.

CONCLUSIONS

Significantly lower screening times and radiation exposure was found in procedures performed by consultants compared with registrars (p<0.001). Given the harmful and unknown long-term effects of ionising radiation exposure in children, we recommend increasing consultant presence in paediatric trauma theatres.

Terminal 2q deletion and partial trisomy chromosome 15q: a clinical and cytogenetic study

We report on a 5 years old female patient with a karyotype 46, XX, add (2), t(2;15) (q37;q22) associated with dysmorphic facial features, digital deformities, heart defect (mild mitral regurge) and severe mental retardation. This is the third reported case worldwide on the terminal 2q deletion and trisomy of chromosome 15q syndrome. The findings in this case and our literature review, delineates the pattern of malformations secondary to trisomy of 15q and deletion of 2q.

Unique karyotype: mos 46,X,dic(X;Y)(p22.33;p11.32)/ 45,X/45,dic(X;Y)(p22.33;p11.32) in an Egyptian patient with Ovotesticular disorder of sexual development

Ovotesticular disorder of sexual development (OT-DSD) is an unusual form of DSD, characterized by the coexistence of testicular and ovarian tissue in the same individual. In this report, we present clinical, cytogenetic and molecular data of an Egyptian patient with ambiguous genitalia and OT-DSD, who had a unique karyotype comprising 3 different cell lines: mos 46,X,dic(X;Y)(p22.33;p11.32)/45,X/ 45,dic(X;Y)(p22.33;p11.32). This mosaic karyotype probably represents 2 different events: abnormal recombination between the X and Y chromosomes during paternal meiosis and postzygotic abnormality in mitotic segregation of the dic(X;Y) chromosome, resulting in a mosaic karyotype. The presence of the sex-determining region Y (SRY) gene explains the development of testicular tissue. On the other hand, other factors, including the presence of a 45,X cell line, partial SRY deletion, X inactivation pattern, and position effect, could be contributed to genital ambiguity. Explanation of the patient's phenotype in relation to the genotype is discussed with a literature review. We conclude that FISH analysis with X- and Y-specific probes and molecular analysis of the SRY gene are highly recommended and allow accurate diagnosis for optimal management of cases with ambiguous genitalia.

Problems and perceived needs for medical ethics education of resident physicians in Alexandria teaching hospitals, Egypt

There is a call for greater preparation for the ethical challenges encountered by physicians in their future professional duties. This study in Egypt aimed to reveal problems and perceived needs for medical ethics education of resident physicians working at University of Alexandria hospitals. In a descriptive, cross-sectional survey, 128 residents answered a self-administered questionnaire. More than half were of the opinion that their medical ethics course was ineffective; 56.3% mentioned poor curricular planning. The majority complained that the subject was not tailored to specialties, the course was too short, there was a shortage of resources to facilitate the educational process and that assessment was done for knowledge but not for skills. Problems related to staffing were low staff:student ratios and staff lack of experience. Trainees, regardless of clinical discipline, felt that there was a great need for improvement to their medicalethics education.

Frequency of VKORC1 (C1173T) and CYP2C9 genetic polymorphisms in Egyptians and their influence on warfarin maintenance dose: proposal for a new dosing regimen

INTRODUCTION

Warfarin is one of the most widely used anticoagulants, yet interindividual differences in drug response, a narrow therapeutic range and a high risk of bleeding or stroke complicate its use. We aimed to determine the allele and genotype frequency of VKORC1 1173 C>T, CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 variant polymorphisms in the Egyptian population and to evaluate their influence on the interindividual differences in warfarin dosage.

METHODS

A total of 154 unrelated healthy adult patients and 46 warfarin-treated patients were included. SYBR Green-based real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was used for studying VKORC1 (C1173T) and CYP2C9*3 polymorphisms. Mutagenically separated PCR assay was used to detect the CYP2C9*2 allele.

RESULTS

VKORC1 genotype frequencies were 11%, 24% and 65% for CC, CT and TT, respectively. The prevalence of CYP2C9 haplotypes was 81% (*1\*1), 3.3% (*1\*2), 9.7% (*1\*3), 4.5% (*2\*2) and 0.65% (2\*3 and *3\*3). VKORC1 TT and CYP2C9*2\*2 were associated with a significantly lower warfarin dose. VKORC1 and CYP2C9 accounted for 31.7% and 15.6% of warfarin dose variability, respectively, and together with clinical factors explained 61.3% of total variability.

CONCLUSION

VKORC1-TT and CYP2C9 *1/*1 are the most prevalent genotypes among Egyptians. Patients with VKORC1-TT genotype required a lower warfarin dose.

Emanuel syndrome due to unusual segregation of paternal origin

Emanuel syndrome is an inherited chromosomal abnormality resulting from 3:1 meiotic segregation from parental balanced translocation carrier t(11;22)(q23;q11), mostly of maternal origin. It is characterized by mental retardation, microcephaly, preauricular tag or sinus, ear anomalies, cleft or high arched palate, micrognathia, congenital heart diseases, kidney abnormalities, structural brain anomalies and genital anomalies in male. Here in, we describe a female patient with supernumerary der(22) syndrome (Emanuel syndrome) due to balanced translocation carrier father t(11;22) (q23;q11). She was mentally and physically disabled and had most of the craniofacial dysmorphism of this syndrome. Our patient had cleft palate, maldeveloped corpus callosum and hind brain with normal internal organs. Additionally, arachnodactyly, hyperextensibility of hand joints, abnormal deep palmar and finger creases, extra finger creases and bilateral talipus were evident and not previously described with this syndrome. Cytogenetic analysis and FISH documented that the patient had both translocation chromosomes plus an additional copy of der(22) with karyotyping: 47,XX,t(11; 22)(q23;q11),+der(22)t(11;22)(q23;q11). We postulated that this rare chromosomal complement can arise from; 2:2 segregation in the first meiotic division of the balanced translocation father followed by non-disjunction at meiosis II in the balanced spermatocyte.

Needlestick injuries among health care workers of University of Alexandria Hospitals

The aims of this cross-sectional study were to investigate the prevalence and circumstances of needlestick injury (NSI) among heath care workers at University of Alexandria teaching hospitals and to assess the effectiveness of the existing control measures and standard precautions. Data were obtained by anonymous, self-reporting questionnaire from 645 nurses, physicians and ancillary staff in 2007. Around two-thirds of workers (67.9%) had suffered at least 1 NSI in the last 12 months. High-risk patients (with history of HIV, hepatitis B virus or, hepatitis C virus infection or injecting drug use) were involved in 8.2% of injuries. On evaluating the effectiveness of existing control measures, significant protective factors against NSI were: using devices with safety features (OR 0.41), adherence to infection control guidelines (OR 0.42), training in injection safety (OR 0.14), comfortable room temperature (OR 0.32) and availability of a written protocol for prompt reporting (OR 0.37).

Gender differences in factors associated with patients' decisions to seek treatment for urinary incontinence in Alexandria, Egypt

The objective of this descriptive, hospital-based comparative cross-sectional survey was to determine gender differences in factors associated with patients' decisions to seek treatment for urinary incontinence (Ul). Using an interview questionnaire, data were collected from 353 patients attending clinics at hospitals in Alexandria, Egypt. There were differences between males and females regarding specific psychosocial factors motivating health care seeking behaviour. Women had fewer hospital admissions and hospital days and less use of diagnostic procedures and surgery. More women suffered from at least one negative impact on their social lives compared to men. The impact of symptoms on quality of life appeared to be the main trigger for seeking help for UI in both men and women.

Survival effects of cyclooxygenase-2 and 12-lipooxygenase in Egyptian women with operable breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BC) is the commonest among women in Egypt as well as in many other countries. Cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) and 12-lipo-oxygenase (12-LOX) are over-expressed in 30-40% of patients and carry a poor prognosis. The objectives of this study were to correlate COX-2 and 12-LOX expression with various clinico-pathologic patients' characteristics and their impact on overall survival (OS) and disease free survival (DFS) in Egyptian women with operable BC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study included 57 consecutive BC cases presenting to the Egyptian National Cancer Institute. Sections from BC and nearby normal tissues were examined for expression of COX-2 and 12-LOX using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

The patients' median age was 45 years. Fifty-three percent were premenopausal. Stage II and III disease represented 25 and 75% respectively. Adjuvant chemotherapy, radiotherapy and tamoxifen were used in 90, 75 and 60% respectively. Sixty percent had hormone-receptor positive tumors and 28% over-expressed HER2/neu. Forty-nine and sixty-five percent showed over-expression of COX-2 and 12-LOX respectively. Patients with higher TNM stage or who developed visceral metastases had significantly higher COX-2 expression. For the whole group of patients, the median DFS was 37 months, while the median OS was not reached. OS or DFS did not differ significantly between patients with normal and over-expression of COX-2. DFS but not OS was significantly higher in 12-LOX over-expression compared to normal expression.

CONCLUSION

COX-2 over-expression was associated with poor prognostic criteria in BC, but did not affect DFS or OS. 12-LOX over-expression was associated with better DFS, but not OS.

Four cases of pediculosis caused by Pthirus pubis Linnaeus, 1758 (Diptera: Anoplura) from peninsular Malaysia

Four cases of pediculosis, two in adults and two in children, caused by the crab-louse, Pthirus pubis Linnaeus, 1758 (Diptera: Anoplura) is reported from peninsular Malaysia. This is the second report of the problem to be documented from the country. Although P. pubis is closely associated with genital hairs, it is, however, also found to occur on the eyelashes, eyebrows, hairs of the body, head and axilla. The few reported cases of pthiriasis probably do not reflect the true situation.

Phenotypic and cytogenetic spectrum of 9p trisomy

Trisomy 9p is one of the most frequent autosomal anomalies compatible with long survival rate. The spectrum of clinical severity in trisomy 9 roughly correlates with the extent of trisomic chromosome material. Trisomy 9p is a clinically well delineated syndrome and of all stigmata craniofacial dysmorphism is most specific. In this study we report five cases with de novo trisomy 9p. The study aimed at the identification of the genotype/phenotype correlations in patients with different breakpoints. GTG banding, DAPI stain, whole chromosome paint, centromere, telomere and 9p21 specific locus probes demonstrated that partial trisomy 9p in case 1 was due to isochromosome 9p with translocation of the long arm of re-arranged chromosome 9 onto the short arm of chromosome 13, cases 2 and 3 had intrachromosomal duplication of the short arm of chromosome 9 [dup(9)(p21p24)], case 4 had "classical" 9p trisomy and case 5 had duplication of whole short arm and part of the long arm of chromosome 9 (partial 9 trisomy). Although cases 1 to 4 had trisomy involving 9p, cases 1 and 2 exhibited the classical clinical manifestations of 9p trisomy, while cases 3 and 4 had additional features overlapping with Coffin-Siris syndrome. The present study strengthens the association of Coffin-Siris syndrome and 9p, the significance of such observations may point to possible gene location of Coffin-Siris syndrome on 9p. Case 5 had additional manifestations more than those typical of trisomy 9p which could be due to duplication of 9q21 region. Wide gap between 1st and 2nd toes, observed in the studied cases, can be added to the phenotype of this trisomy. Three of our cases had brain malformations, case 3 had dilated ventricles with hypogenesis of corpus callosum, case 4 had agenesis of corpus callosum, and case 5 had Dandy-Walker malformation. We also suggest that dosage effects of genes located in 9pter-q22 contribute to the etiology of Dandy-Walker syndrome. We recommend MRI studies as a routine in all cases with trisomy 9p.

On the pathogenicity of attenuated Schistosoma mansoni cercariae released from metabolically disturbed Biomphalaria alexandrina

Biomphalaria alexandrina were treated with sublethal concentrations (LC10) of dry powdered leaves Solanum nigrum or whole dry Ambrosia maritima. The two plants affected the development of schistosome parasite within snails by disturbing the glycolytic flux, the most important metabolic pathway for schistosome-infected snails. Attenuated cercariae released from treated snails were used to infect male albino mice to evaluate their pathogenicity compared to control cercariae shed from untreated snails. The mean number of worms established declined from about 70 +/- 17.6 worms/mouse infected with control cercariae to 23.4 +/- 20.33 and 14.18 +/- 10.06 worms/mouse infected with S. nigrum and A. maritima-attenuated cercariae respectively. Most males and females detected in these animals measured 0.4-0.6 and 0.6-1.2 mm respectively compared to 1.2-1.4 and 1.4-1.7 mm in males and females released from mice infected with normal cercariae. Egg count in the liver and intestine of mice infected with attenuated cercariae was remarkably lower showing reduced fecundity of worms developed from attenuated cercariae. Number and size of granulomatous reactions showed remarkable reduction in attenuated cercariae-infected mice. Biochemical analyses for pathogenicity achieved with attenuated cercariae showed that while serum aspartate and alanine aminotransferases (AST &ALT) were more or less similar, depleted glycogen and elevated lipid peroxides were normalized when compared to those infected with normal cercariae.

Short-term results of rotoresection for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a prospective study of safety and efficacy

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety and efficacy of rotoresection as a method for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty patients were prospectively enrolled between September 2000 and May 2001 (mean age 61 years, sd 6, range 52-78). All patients had a symptom score (AUA) of > 12, a maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) of < 12 mL/s, a prostate of 20-80 mL and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of 0-4 ng/mL. Patients with prostate or bladder cancer, a PSA level of > 10 ng/mL, previous prostate surgery, previous pelvic surgery, urethral stricture, active urinary tract infection (UTI), acute urine retention, neuropathic bladder and a serum creatinine of > 1.8 mg/mL were excluded. The adenoma was resected using the Rotoresect system (Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany); the mean (sd) operative duration was 45.2 (9.9) min. The catheter was removed after 1.97 (0.3) days and patients assessed at 1, 3 and 6 months after surgery by an AUA score, Qmax, blood haemoglobin level, urine analysis and transrectal ultrasonography; all patients but two completed the follow-up.

RESULTS

At 6 months the mean (sd) AUA score decreased from 20.5 (3.8) to 1.6 (1.3), the Qmax increased from 8.7 (2) to 25.3 (12.6) mL/s, and the total prostate volume decreased from 36.5 (13) to 20.5 (7.8) mL. The mean initial haemoglobin level was 138 (10) g/L and at 1 month was 135 (12) g/L. No patient required a blood transfusion or had signs of transurethral resection syndrome. Early complications included UTI and mild stress incontinence in 10 and 11 patients, respectively. At 6 months these patients had sterile urine and were continent. Two patients had a urethral stricture and posterior urethral stone at 6 months and were treated successfully.

CONCLUSION

In the short-term, rotoresection is a safe and effective method for treating BPH; there was no significant blood loss or resection syndrome. The hospital stay was short, with excellent functional results.

Physical, morphological and chemical characteristics, oil recovery and fatty acid composition of Balanites aegyptiaca Del. kernels

Balanites aegyptiaca Del. kernels were chemically, physically and morphologically characterized. Crude oil (49.0%) and crude protein (32.4%) were the two major constituents of the kernels. Phytic acid content was relatively high compared to other legumes. In contrast, antitryptic activities of the kernel flours were very low. Sapogenin contents of the full fat, defatted and testa flours were 1.5, 2.7 and 3.0%, respectively. The hardness of the kernel was found to be about 10.4 x 10(5) N/m2, which was somewhat high. The morphological structure of the kernel using a scanning electron microscope revealed that the protein matrix was embedded in a lake of oil droplets. Oil recovery, as a function of pressing time, pressure, temperature and particle size was investigated. With increasing temperature up to 70 degrees C at 400 bar, for 120 min, an oil recovery of 79.4% was obtained. Using an expeller at 115 degrees C, about 85% of the kernel oil was recovered. The reduction of particle size had a negative effect on oil recovery under the same conditions. The fatty acid composition was not affected by the pressing temperature up to 115 degrees C. The total amount of the unsaturated fatty acids was found to be up to 74.8% (50 degrees C) and 75.1% (115 degrees C) of the total fatty acids content.

Effect of carnosine administration on metabolic parameters in bilharzia-infected hamsters

Carnosine is a naturally occurring dipeptide (beta-alanyl-L-histidine) found in muscles, brain and other tissues. This study was designed to test the ability of carnosine to offset metabolic disturbances induced by Schistosoma mansoni parasitism. Results indicate that parasitic infection caused elevation of liver weight/body weight in S. mansoni-infected hamsters, induced lipid peroxidation and reduced glycogen levels. Moreover, adenylate energy charge (AEC) and ATP/ADP and ATP/AMP concentration ratios were markedly lower in infected hamsters. Administration of carnosine (10 mg/day) for 15 days concurrent with infection effectively reduced worm burden and egg count. Administration of carnosine 2 and 4 weeks post-exposure only partially ameliorated the S. mansoni effects on metabolism. Carnosine treatment also normalized most of the parameters measured, including glycogen repletion, the antioxidant status and AEC. These finding support the use of carnosine for possible intervention in schistosomiasis.

Susceptibility of Biomphalaria alexandrina to infection with Schistosoma mansoni: correlation with the activity of certain glycolytic enzymes

The importance of the glycolytic flux for the success of Biomphalaria-Schistosome sporocyst interaction was acertained in this study. Hexokinase (HK), pyruvate kinase(PK), glucose phosphate isomerase(GPI) and lactate dehydrogenase (LD) as four important glycolytic enzymes were markedly stimulated in trematode infected Biomphalaria alexandrina when measured two weeks post exposure to infection with Schistosoma mansoni miracidia. On the other hand phosphoenolpyruvate carboxy kinase (PEPCK), glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) and fructose 1,6 diphosphatase(FDPase) as three gluconeogenic enzymes were slightly affected which confirm the importance of the glycolytic pathway for schistosome-exposed snails. Effect of LC25 of Solanum nigrum leaves dry powder as plant molluscicide on HK, PK and GPI were tested. Treatment with this plant resulted in a significant inhibition of these three investigated enzymes. LC10 concentrations of S. nigrum reduced considerably the infection rate of B. alexandrina with S. mansoni to be 34% compared to an infection rate of 80% in control, non-treated snails. Longer prepatent period and remarkable decrease in cercarial production was also recorded in snails treated with the sublethal concentrations of the molluscicide. As conclusion, susceptibility of B. alexandrina to infection with the digenetic trematode S. mansoni is correlated to the activity levels of the glycolytic enzymes. Moreover, sublethal and less pollutant concentration of S. nigrum could be recommended to control schistosomiasis by disturbing the intramolluscan environment of the parasite.

Effect of carnosine administration on certain metabolic parameters in bilharzial infected hamsters

This study was designed to test the ability of carnosine to cure the metabolic disturbances induced by Schistosoma mansoni parasite. Results indicate that parasitic infection caused elevation of liver weight/body weight of S. mansoni infected hamsters, induced lipid peroxidation and reduced glycogen level. Moreover, the adenylate energy charge (AEC), ATP/ADP and ATP/AMP concentration ratios were markedly lower in infected hamsters. Administration of carnosine (10 mg/day) for 15 days either concurrent with infection, 2 and 4 weeks post exposure was effective in reducing worm burden and egg count only when given at the time of infection. It was also effective in renormalizing most of the measured parameters confirming the glycogen repletion, the antioxidant and AEC correcting actions of carnosine.

Analysis of some antifungal drugs by spectrophotometric and spectrofluorimetric methods in different pharmaceutical dosage forms

Simple spectrophotometric and spectrofluorimetric methods are suggested for the determination of antifungal drugs; clotrimazole, econazole nitrate, ketoconazole, miconazole and tolnaftate. Spectrophotometric one depends on the interaction between imidazole antifungal drugs as n-electron donor with the pi acceptor 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone (DDQ) in methanol or with p-chloranilic acid (p-CA) in acetonitrile. The produced chromogens obey Beer's law at lambda(max) 460, and 520 nm in the concentration range 22.5-200 and 7.9-280 microg ml(-1) for DDQ, and p-CA, respectively. Spectrofluorimetric method is based on the measurement of the native fluorescence of ketoconazole at 375 nm with excitation at 288 nm and or the induced fluorescence after alkaline hydrolysis of tolnaftate with 5 M NaOH solution at 420 nm with excitation at 344 nm. Fluorescence intensity versus concentration is linear for ketoconazole at 49.7-800 ng ml(-1) while for tolnaftate, it is in the range of 20.4-400 ng ml(-1). The proposed methods were applied successfully for the determination of all the studied drugs in their pharmaceutical formulations.

Recovery and characterization of Balanites aegyptiaca Del. kernel proteins. Effect of defatting, air classification, wet sieving and aqueous ethanol treatment on solubility, digestibility, amino acid composition and sapogenin content

In order to find alternative protein sources in African regions where protein deficiency in nutrition is prevailing, solubility, in-vitro digestibility, amino acid composition and chemical score of Balanites aegyptiaca Del. kernel proteins were investigated as a function of different processing steps including defatting, air classification, wet sieving and aqueous ethanol treatment. Air classification delivered a fine fraction of 58.1% of the total protein. Applying a wet sieving process, a protein concentrate of 72.9% protein content was achieved but the recovery was very low (35.6%). However, in case of isoelectric precipitation followed by aqueous ethanol treatment both protein content (78.2%) and recovery (53.7%) were high. Data concerning the chemical score revealed, that lysine content of the defatted kernel flour amounted to 74.2% of the recommended FAO/WHO standard level. In-vitro protein digestibility was found to be higher than of legume proteins. The digestible protein of the full fat flour, defatted flour, air classified and wet sieved fine fractions and protein concentrate were 91.9, 93.7, 82.0, 86.4 and 94.2%, respectively. The sapogenin content per 100 g protein of the investigated protein preparations was significantly lower (46% to 62%) than of the initial material (oilcake).

Immunity to spermatozoa and male fertility

Immunological characterization of semen and male fertility are discussed. The pH of seminal plasma is very similar in groups of fertile and infertile men. Nonspecific immunological factors such as lysozyme, C3c, alpha-1 antitrypsin and beta-2 microglobulin were significantly higher in 14% of infertile men. Seminal antibodies agglutinating spermatozoa are frequently observed in IgG and IgA isotypes. High levels of seminal anti-phospholipid antibodies in seminal plasma could influence epitopes on the endometrium, oocyte or early embryo in patients with repeated unexplained spontaneous miscarriages.

Mechanisms of resistance to Leishmania aethiopica. I. Interferon-gamma in combination with a cytokine (not tumor necrosis factor-alpha) is required, but cannot act alone in the inhibition of intracellular forms of L. aethiopica in THP1 cells

Following exposure to promastigotes of various Leishmania species, mononuclear cells from non-exposed as well as potentially exposed individuals produced a cytokine response which inhibited intracellular forms of Leishmania aethiopica in a permissive monocytic cell line (THP1). Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), was one of the cytokines responsible for this anti-leishmanial effect. IFN-gamma was necessary for inhibition but could not act on its own inhibiting L. aethiopica. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha seemed not to be involved in the anti-L. aethiopica effect. The observed effects were in the absence of endotoxin. The results suggest that the mechanisms of killing of L. aethiopica in human cells may differ from those responsible for inhibition of other Leishmania parasites (such as Leishmania major) in mouse macrophages. Furthermore, that potentially relevant responses to Leishmania antigens may exist in normal individuals.

Use of 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane for spectrophotometric determination of certain local anaesthetics and procainamide hydrochloride

A simple and rapid spectrophotometric procedure has been developed for the determination of four local anaesthetics containing a free primary amine moiety and of procainamide hydrochloride as the drug substances and in dosage forms. The method is based on the reaction of the drug with 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane in alkaline solution to produce yellow products. The chromogen was measured at 473 nm. The effects of several variables on colour development were established. Job's plots of absorbance versus molar ratio of drug to reagent indicated a 1:1 ratio for all the drugs studied. Results of the analysis of drug substances and their dosage forms by the proposed method are in good agreement with those obtained by the USP XX method.

Use of p-benzoquinone for the spectrophotometric determination of certain sulphonamides

A simple spectrophotometric method for the determination of 15 sulphonamides in bulk and in dosage forms is described. The method is based on the interaction of p-benzoquinone with sulphonamides in 0.1 M hydrochloric acid. The resulting chromophore is measured at 500 nm. The effects of different variables on colour development were established. Beer's law was obeyed in a concentration range of 10-50 micrograms ml-1. Results from the analysis of different sulphonamide tablets and ophthalmic solutions marketed locally were in good agreement with that of a reference method. Correlations between A1cm(1%) and certain physical parameters such as pKa values, characteristic volume Vx, and molecular connectivity indices 1X and 1Xv were determined by linear regression equations. A poor correlation was found between A1cm(1%) and bulkiness parameters but a highly significant negative correlation was obtained with apparent pKa values.

Spectrophotometric determination of some benzene sulfonamides with 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane

A new spectrophotometric method for the determination of some unsubstituted benzene sulfonamides is presented. The method is based on the interaction of these derivatives with 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane at pH 9.0-9.5 to produce intense blue products. The quantitation of the products was carried out at 578 nm. Beer's law was obeyed over a wide range of concentrations for all sulfonamide compounds studied. Optimum analytical conditions were determined, and the color produced was stable for at least 90 min at 25 degrees C. Analytical data for determination of sulfonamide compounds in pure form are presented together with application of the proposed method for analysis of some commercially available pharmaceutical preparations. The results are in good agreement with those obtained by official procedures.

Synthesis and antimicrobial activity of some new 2,5-imidazolidinediones

1,3-Diphenyl-4-thione-2,5-imidazolidinedione (3) was reacted with amino compounds and o-diamines to give 1,3-diphenyl-4-substituted imino-2,5-imidazolinediones (4a-m) and 1,3-diphenyl-1H-imidazo[4,5-b]quinoxaline-2(3H)-ones (5a-c), respectively. Condensation of 3 with hydrazines afforded the corresponding hydrazone derivatives (6a-c). Reaction of 6a with acetyl chloride, aromatic aldehydes, arylsulphonyl chlorides, phthalic acid anhydrides and isocyanates or thiocyanates furnished 6d, furnished the acetyl-amido derivative 6b, the benzylidenimino derivatives 7a-d, the arylsulphonamido derivatives 8a-b, the phthalimido derivatives 9a-b and the ureido and thioureido derivatives 10a-b, respectively. Again compound 3 was reacted with n-butylmagnesium bromide or diazomethane to give the dibutyl derivative 12 or 13.

Spectrofluorometric assay of thiamine hydrochloride in injections and multivitamin preparations

A spectrofluorometric method is described for the determination of thiamine hydrochloride. The method is based on formation of a fluorescent product by oxidation of thiamine HCl with 2,3,5,6-tetrabromo-1,4-benzoquinone in aqueous acetonitrile solution. The reaction product is stable for at least 6 h and shows excitation and emission maxima around 355 and 420 nm, respectively. The method is highly selective for thiamine HCl in the presence of other B vitamins. Thiamine HCl can be determined at concentrations as low as 20-160 ng/mL of the final solutions. When the method was applied to the determination of thiamine HCl added to some commercially available multivitamin preparations, recoveries were 98.78-99.98%.

Ultrastructural aspects of chronic oral candidosis

Human biopsy specimens from white patches on the mucosae of tongue and lips which had previously given positive cultures for Candida albicans were examined. The specimens were processed for electron microscopy by conventional techniques. The fine structure of the superficial layer of the epithelium revealed Candida albicans in extra- and intracellular sites. Penetration into the deeper layers was not observed. The fungus had a thick cell wall surrounded by an outer floccular layer. The cytoplasm of the superficial epithelial cells showed degenerative changes and fragmentation of tonofilaments in the immediate vicinity of the fungus. Microabscesses, formed by pools of neutrophils, were common in the upper spinous layer. In places, fungi and bacteria appear to have been phagocytosed by neutrophils and macrophages. The cells of the lower spinous and basal layers showed detachment of desmosomes, marked increase in intracellular glycogen, prominent lysosome-like dense bodies and abundant mitochondria of differing shapes. At the epithelia-connective tissue junction, fine filaments and collagen fibrils were intermingled throughout the basal lamina, forming multiple, highly electron-dense layers. A noticeable change in the connective tissue was the accumulation of numerous mast cells containing differently shaped granules filled with scrolls and dense strands of granular material. The terminal blood vessel exhibited leakage and numerous, concentric duplications of the basal lamina.