Showing papers in "Journal of the Egyptian Society of Parasitology in 2017"
14 citations
TL;DR: Intestinal parasitism and H pylori association is complex and necessitates further genomic studies for a better understanding of the epidemiological and clinical impact of co-infection, as well as possible strategies for their treatment and control.
Abstract: Giardia intestinalis (G. intestinalis) and Helicobacter pylori (Hpylori) are two intestinal pathogens sharing the same mode of infection. This study determines the prevalence of G. intestinalis and H pylori co-infection estimated risks and predictive factors for susceptibility to co-infection. Stool samples were collected from 801 patients suffering gastrointestinal symptoms and living in Greater Cairo. They were subjected to coproscopic examination for detection of intestinal parasites and copro PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and sequencing targeting the glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) gene for Giardia. Positive samples for gidrdiasis were further subjected to copro- immunoassay to detect H pylori coprontigen. Among 63 cases of giardiasis by both microscopy and PCR (84.1 % as-semblage B and 15.9% AII), 52.5% were coinfected with H pylori. Co-infection was more frequent with assemblage B (50.9%) than assemblage A (40%). Among studied variables of assemblage type, gender, or harboring more than one parasite (polyparasitism), only school age children, was signifi-cantly associated (P value: 0.02) with Giardia and H pylori co-infection. Physicians in Egypt must consider G. intestinalis and H pylori as prevailing intestinal pathogens with predominance of Giardia assemblage B. Giardia and H pylori co-infection is common in school aged children and modulates gastrointestinal manifestations. Intestinal parasitism and H pylori association is complex and necessitates further genomic studies for a better understanding of the epidemiological and clinical impact of co-infection, as well as possible strategies for their treatment and control.
13 citations
TL;DR: It was found that the overall seroprevalence of T. gondii was 30.16% and significant relations were observed between Toxoplasma IgG antibodies and abortion history, maternity trimester and consumption of under-cooked meat.
Abstract: Protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is considered as one of the most critical risk factor for recurrent abortion in pregnant females and resulted in multi congenital malformation in fetus world-wide. The present study was carried out on 693 pregnant females from Alexandria, Beheira, Gharbia, Menoufia, Qalyoubia and Fayoum provinces,"The study determined the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant females during pregnancy trimesters and shed the lights on the main risk factors and possible contamination routes. Detection for the presence of Toxoplasma IgG antibodies were done by enzyme linked fluorescence assay (ELFA). It was found that the overall seroprevalence of T. gondii was 30.16%.The seroprevalence increased with age. Significant relations were observed between Toxoplasma IgG antibodies and abortion history, maternity trimester and consumption of under-cooked meat. No significant differences were reported due to parity, occupation, abortion trimester, contact with cats and/or other animals and exposure to soil.
11 citations
11 citations
TL;DR: A. marginale was detected in 69.3% (104/150) of the sampled buffaloes, and 86.6% (130/150%) of collectedticks as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: Anaplasmosis is an infectious, non-contagious disease caused by the rickettsial pathogen Anaplasma marginale. The organism is globally distributed and infects erythrocytes, resulting in anemia, jaundice, fever, abortions and death. Once infected, animals remain carriers for life. In developing countries anaplasmosis is of great economic losses as it is highly endemic. The present study was designed to determine the prevalence of A. marginale in blood samples of buffaloes since they are important reservoir hosts for A. marginale and can serve as a source of infection for tick. A total of 150 buffalo blood samples was randomly collected from four governorates and was analyzed using PCR assay based on msp1α. Anaplasma marginale DNA was detected in 69.3% (104/150) of the sampled buffaloes, and 86.6% (130/150) of collectedticks. As anaplasmal infection is endemic in Egypt, it was recommended screening herds to detect A. marginale even when the signs and symptoms of infection were not visible.
9 citations
TL;DR: The diversity and abundance of the different mosquito species, among which several vectors of diseases mainly malaria, Rift Valley fever, lymphatic filariasis and dengue fever may pause a risk of transmission and more spread of such disease in this part that contains the holy places which are visited all year round by millions of people from several countries.
Abstract: An entomological survey was undertaken for two years to update the mosquito fauna of the 3 regions (Mecca, Al Madinah and Tabouk), of the western coast, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Six localies representing such Regions (lhif, Mecca, Jeddah, Yanbu, Daba and Haql) were sampled for larvae and adults. Nineteen soecies of six genera were reported of which genus Culex (57.89% sp.) were the most commo6, followed by Anopheles (21.05%) and Stegomyia, Ochlerotatus, Aedes and Culesita (5.26% each). Three species (Cx. sitiens, Cx. torrenlium and Am. v. arabiensis) were new reports in study area. A total of 10930 larvae and 33108 adults were collected of which those representing genus Culex were predominating (92.74% larva, 93.46% adult). Of the reported species, Cx. quinquefasciatus (47.11% larva, 57.52% adult) and Cx. pipiens (22.24% larva, 27.42% adult) Were the common ones. Both Taif and Tabouk reported the highest number of species (13 sp., 68.42%), followed by Jeddah (12 sp., 63.16%), Mecca (10 sp., 52.63%) and Yanbu (8 sp., 42.11%). Tabouk represented the maximum diversity with the highest Simpson index (1-D=0.65) and Shannon index (H=1.25) followed by Taif (1- D=0.54, H=1.01). Per sampling site, Jeddah reported the highest number of larvae (313.70), and Mecca had the highest adult number (670.18). A complete list of mosquito fauna of the western coast including 35. spp. was presented based on the present and previous surveys. The role of the reported mosquito species as disease vectors was discussed. The study concluded that the diversity and abundance of the different mosquito species, among which several vectors of diseases mainly malaria, Rift Valley fever, lymphatic filariasis and dengue fever may pause a risk of transmission and more spread of such disease in this part that contains the holy places which are visited all year round by millions of people from several countries.
9 citations
9 citations
TL;DR: Development a novel non-chemical approach that decreases the need of anthelmintic drugs, proved to be the only realistic strategy to avoid drug resistance especially with biodegradable eco-friendly plant extracts.
7 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors assessed the effect of an intervention program for nursing staff knowledge, performance and attitude related to blood protozoa acquired by needle stick injury in a pre-post study.
Abstract: Needle stick injuries are a common event in the healthcare environment. When drawing blood, administering an intramuscular or intravenous drug, or performing other procedures involving sharps, needle can slip and injure the healthcare worker. This allows for transmission of pathogens. Injuries also occur during needle recapping or failure to place used needles in the sharps containers. Also, lack of access to or failure to use appropriate personal protective equipment can cause needle stick injuries. Night shifts also put practitioners at risk for needle stick injuries. The study assessed the effect of an intervention program for nursing staff knowledge, performance and attitude related to blood protozoa acquired by needle stick injury. Design an interventional study (pre-post study) was used for 90 nursing staff, ten of them pilot study were excluded. The study tools composed of educational needs assessment tool, knowledge questionnaire sheet (pre/post-test), observation check list and attitude Results showed significant improvements in nursing staff knowledge, performance and attitude.
7 citations
TL;DR: Continues training programs about blood parasites acquired by needle stick injury must be developed and provided on regular basis to enable nursing staff to improve their knowledge, performance and attitude about blood parasite acquired by needles stick injury.
Abstract: Nurses are likely to be exposed to microorganisms during their daily practice due to their close and frequent direct contact with patients. This could be one of the main causes of transmitting infection to the patients. Therefore, nurses should demonstrate the ability to effectively utilize principles of infection control, nurses should have professional and ethical responsibilities to make sure that their knowledge and skills regarding infection control are up-to-date and they practice safely and competently at all times. Aim At assessing the effect of a training program for Military nursing staff knowledge, performance and attitude related to blood parasites acquired by needle stick injury. Setting The study was carried out at two military hospitals. Design An interventional study (pre-post study) was used. Subject The studied subjects were 90 nursing staff who accepted to participate in the study (10) of them pilot study were excluded from the study sample, (30) from The Military Fever Hospital and (50) from The Military General Hospital. Tools: The study tools used were composed of five tools as follows: (1) Educational needs assessment tool. (2) Knowledge questionnaire sheet (pre / post-test) (3) Observation check list (4) Attitude tool and (5) Participants 'evaluation Questionnaire sheet. Results Educational the intervention showed statistically significant improvements in nursing staff knowledge, performance and attitude. Recommendation Continues training programs about blood parasites acquired by needle stick injury must be developed and provided on regular basis, this will enable nursing staff to improve their knowledge, performance and attitude about blood parasites acquired by needle stick injury.
7 citations
TL;DR: The present study determined the milk value rather than serum in diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in goats using ELISA and Modified Agglutination Test (MAT), and ELISA proved to be more specific and sensitive than MAT indiagnosis of Anti-T.
Abstract: The present study determined the milk value rather than serum in diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in goats using ELISA and Modified Agglutination Test (MAT). ELISA proved to be more specific and sensitive (92% & 85%), than MAT (90% & 80%) in diagnosis of Anti-T. gondii Antibodies (ATAb) in group of microscopically proved T gondii aborted goats respectively. There was a direct relationship between.the mean ELISA O.D. value and the level of Ab-titer in MAT positive sera. The overall prevalence of infection in 600 serum samples from grazing goats was 22% and 20% after examination using ELISA and IAT respectively. It was lower after examination of their milk (20%) and (18%) by both techniques respectively. ATAb were significant high in serum (P 2 years old, while no ATAb could be detected in goats less than one year old. The highest prevalence of infection (39.28% in serum and 37.14% in milk) was in Qalyoubia, the lowest one (11.25% & 9.58%) was in Giza governorate. The prevalence of infection was high after examination of serum and milk of goats with previous history of abortion in comparison with the other goats.
TL;DR: Traits connected with morphometric measurements are good characters for differentiation between carabid beetles, South Sinai population of A. sexmaculatus have been shown to differ morphologically from the other populations in Egypt.
Abstract: 176 VARIATION OF MORPHOMETRIC TRAITS WITHIN POPULATIONS OF GROUND BEETLES ANTHIA SEXMACULATA (COLEOPTERA: CARABIDAE) LOCATED IN DIFFERENT ECOGEOGRAPHICAL REGIONS IN EGYPT By MOSTAFA I. HASSAN, DALIA A. ELSHEWY, AHMED S. BREAM, AND SABER A. RIAD* Department of Zoology, Entomology Unit, Faculty of Science, Al Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, and Department of Insect Classification and Survey, Plant Protection Research Institute, ARC, Dokki, Giza, Egypt. (*Correspondence:saberiad60@azhar.edu.eg, Tel. 20201000262403) Abstract The morphometric measurements of populations of Anthia sexmaculata in different regions were studied in Egypt. A multivariate comparison of morphometric differences was undertaken by eyepiece micrometer on three different ecogeographical areas in Egypt; Western Mediterranean Coastal Desert (WMCD) (North Coast, Fouka and Mersa Matruh), Western Desert (Siwa, Bahariya and Dakhla Oases) and South Sinai (Saint Catherine and Taba Protected area and Sharm El Sheikh wadis). Twenty-one morphometric traits were studied. Traits best corresponding to the distinction of populations was distinguished by cluster and discriminant analysis (LDA). The first and second discriminant axes (Axis1 and Axis2) recorded 88.38% and 11.62%, respectively, of the total variation in studied sample. Multiple discriminant analysis revealed clear morphometric differences between West Mediterranean Costal Desert, Western Desert and South Sinai populations. Traits connected with morphometric measurements are good characters for differentiation between carabid beetles, South Sinai population of A. sexmaculatus have been shown to differ morphologically from the other populations in Egypt.
TL;DR: Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic protozoan disease results from infection with Toxoplasma gondii that infects all warm-blooded animals, including humans (intermediate host) where it multiplies asexually.
Abstract: Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic protozoan disease results from infection with Toxoplasma gondii, one of the worldwide zoological and geographical distribution. T. gondii multiples sexually in the cat family (definitive host) and infects all warm-blooded animals, including humans (intermediate host) where it multiplies asexually. Transmission occurs by ingestion of raw or partly cooked meat, especially pork, lamb, or venison containing cysts, mainly in countries where undercooked meat is traditionally eaten. Also, cysts may also be ingested during handto-mouth contact after handling undercooked meat, or from using knives, utensils, or cutting boards contaminated by raw meat. Drinking water contaminated with Toxoplasma cysts. Also, receiving an infected organ transplantation or blood transfusion, or nosocomial (needle-stick injury) was reported. Ingestion of oocysts dropped with cat feces, through hand-to-mouth contact after gardening, cleaning a cat's litter box, contact with children's sandpits, or touching anything that came into contact with cat feces. Also, congenital toxoplasmosis or mother-to-child transmission do occurs during pregnancy. For infants born to infected mothers and for people with weakened immune systems, toxoplasmosis may cause serious complications.The clinical features, diagnosis and prevention of congenital toxoplasmosis in infants and children are reviewed here
TL;DR: In this paper, the effects of methotrexate on reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis alone and combined with a therapeutic combination of spiramycin, pyrimethamine and folinic acid on the progress of the disease were assessed.
Abstract: 589 IN VIVO ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTS OF METHOTREXATE ON LATENT TOXOPLASMOSIS By SAMIA E. ETEWA, DALIA A. ABO EL-MAATY, MAI E. ABD EL-AZEEM , MAHMOUD A. EL-SHAFEY, MOHAMED H. SARHAN, EMAN H. ABDEL BARY AND EMAN SAAD Departments of Medical Parasitology, Clinical Pathology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt (*Correspondence: drsarhan@gmail.com) Abstract Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) has been shown to result in life-threatening encephalitis in immunocompromised patients after reactivation of dormant parasites. The present work aimed to assess the effects of methotrexate on reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis alone and combined with a therapeutic combination of spiramycin, pyrimethamine and folinic acid on the progress of the disease. Forty-four laboratory-bred Swiss albino male mice were infected with Me49 nonvirulent strain of T. gondii and equally divided into four groups: infected untreated control (I); infected and treated with combination of spiramycin, pyrimethamine and folinic acid (II); Infected and received methotrexate (III); and infected and received both methotrexate, spiramycin, pyrimethamine and folinic acid (IV). The mean number and size of tissue cysts in brain smears of mice of each group were determined, serum levels of anti-Toxoplasma IgM were assessed in different study groups by an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and histopathological examination of brain and liver were done. The results showed that the mean serum IgM level was significantly different in the treated groups compared to that in infected control group. The highest level of serum IgM was found in the infected and received methotrexate group. After treatment with spiramycin, pyrimethamine and folinic acid, it was significantly decreased. In this study, reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis was observed by a significant increase in the mean number and sizes of Toxoplasma tissue cysts in brains of mice with established chronic toxoplasmosis after treatment with methotrexate alone or combined with spiramycin, pyrimethamine compared to both untreated chronically infected controls and infected mice treated with spiramycin, pyrimethamine and folinic acid. Moreover, considerable pathological lesions in the brain and liver was observed in groups received methotrexate alone or combined with spiramycin, pyrimethamine compared to both untreated chronically infected controls and infected mice treated with spiramycin, pyrimethamine and folinic acid.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors analyzed the prevailing dengue virus serotypes in Jazan region, Saudi Arabia and found that DEN-2 is the most common and predominant type in the region rating 83.9%, followed by DEN-1 8.9% (104/124), and then DEN-3 7.2% (9/124).
Abstract: Dengue fever is considered to be the most important mosquito-borne disease and considered as endemic disease in Jazan region, Saudi Arabia. The present study aimed to analyze the prevailing dengue virus serotypes in the region. Serum samples of 220 suspected dengue cases were collected throughout 2016 and tested by one step Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) with a set of specific primers for detection of four DV serotypes followed by sequencing the PCR products to confirm the results. Out of the 220 serum samples, 124 were found positive for dengue infection (56.4%). Three dengue virus serotypes were detected; DEN- 1, DEN-2 and DEN-3. DEN-2 is the most common and predominant type in the region rating 83.9% (104/124), followed by DEN-1 8.9% (11/124), and then DEN-3 7.2% (9/124). The high seroprevalence of dengue virus infections in Jazan region indicates its endemicity. The present study highlights the importance of tracking the spread of dengue virus types and its implication for analyzing changes in dengue endemicity in specified areas over time.
TL;DR: The blood Nourin test can be used as a key inflammatory biomarker for "early" detection and monitoring of influenza flu patients proceeding to hyperactive inflammation and, thus, permitting early crucial anti-inflammatory therapy.
Abstract: Relatively little is known about the inflammatory mediators and mechanisms that drive the progression of influenza flu infection to cytokine storm, lung dysfunction, organ failure, and ultimately death. Vaccines and antiviral medications cannot control the excessive host inflammatory response associated with severe influenza flu infection. Studies by Elgebaly et al demonstrated the rapid release of a potent inflammatory mediator, recently named Nourin, by local mammalian tissues in response to injury and infection. Nourin is a formyl peptide that acts through the formyl peptide receptor (FPR) on phagocytic leukocytes. As an initial signal in the innate immunity, Nourin stimulates leukocyte chemotaxis, induces acute and chronic inflammation, and stimulates the release of a number of the cytokine storm mediators from monocytes, neutrophils and endothelial cells. Furthermore, Nourin detected in plasma samples from patients with severe influenza infection was much higher compared to moderate influenza. The Nourin antagonist, Cyclosporin H, is a potent anti-inflammatory compound, which acts as a specific competitive antagonist of formyl peptides on the formyl peptide receptor (FPR) on phagocytic: leukocytes. Cyclosporin H completely blocked neutrophil chemotaxis induced by: (a) the standard formyl peptide, f-MLF, (b) the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria-derived formyl peptide Phenol-soluble modulins, such as PSM3a, plus(c) the host-derived Nourin released by: (1) cultured epithelial cells infected with the PR8 HINI influenza virus for 6.to 24 hours, (2),Nourin detected in the serum of mouse model of HINI Swine flu influenza infection for 6 hours , along with (3) Nourin detected in plasma samples collected from severe and moderate influenza pa- tients. Furthermore, in-vivo treatment by Cyclosporin H in the mouse model of HINI Swine flu influenza infection for 5 days markedly reduced lung inflammation and endothelial cell damage. Thus, two clinical applications for Nourin and its antagonist Cyclosporin H are proposed: Diagnostic Application: The blood Nourin test can be used as a key inflammatory biomarker for "early" detection and monitoring of influenza flu patients proceeding to hyperactive inflammation and, thus, permitting early crucial anti-inflammatory therapy. Therapeutic Application: Cyclosporin H will specifically block Nourin as an important initial stimulant of cytokine mediators, and thus can control the development and progression of cytokine storm plus organ inflammation, which usually initiates 3 to 8 days post influenza. Since Cyclosporin H does not target the virus,, it will not develop drug resistance,and will reduce the host uncontrpolled inflammatory response, induced by both new strains of flu viruses and existing viruses with mutations.
TL;DR: A serological survey for antibodies to T. gondii was carried out among two species of commensal rodent species Rattus norvegicus and R. rattus, trapped from different localities within Abu-El- Nomros center, Giza Governorate and showed that mature and immature of males and females of both sp'ecies had anti-toxoplasmal.
Abstract: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular zoonotic parasite that infects a large spectrum of warm-blood animals, including humans. Congenital toxoplasmosis is a worldwide problem. Rodents are intermediate hosts and serve as food for felids, the definitive hosts. A serological survey for antibodies to T. gondii was ca-ried out among two species of commensal rodent species Rattus norvegicus and R. rattus, trapped from different localities within Abu-El- Nomros center, Giza Governorate. Of 125 rats, 5 (4.0%) had anti-Toxoplasma antibodies. Of 79 R. nor- vegicus 3 (3.8%), and 46 R. rattus 2 (4.3%). The results showed that mature and immature of males and females of both sp'ecies had anti-toxoplasmal. This result was not sta- tistically significant between two species of R. norvegicus and R. rattus and also between the two sexes of each species.
TL;DR: It was concluded that Schistosonia haematobium is still one of the major risks of developing squamous cell metaplasia of the urinary bladder in Egypt which was found to be of high statistically significance in both males and females in rural areas.
Abstract: The present cross sectional study was carried out to analyze the histopathological changes in the urinary bladder affected by Schistosoma haematobium among 54 patients (aged between 20-60 years; 40 males, 14 females; 44 from rural, 10 from urban areas) attending Sohag University Hospital, Egypt from. October 2015 to March 2016. 10% formalin fixed biopsy specimens were examined from which sections of 5 jum were prepared and examined microscopically. Mid-stream urine samples were collected from the patients after a slight physical exercise immediately transported to the Parasitological Laboratory to be examined for S. haematobium eggs. Histopathological examination revealed squamous metaplasia of the urinary bladder in 38/54 cases (70.4%); 20/54-(37%) non- keratinizing metaplasia, 18/54 (33.3%) keratinizing metaplasia and invasive squamous carcinoma in 11/54 (20.4%). It was concluded that Schistosonia haematobium is still one of the major risks of developing squamous cell metaplasia of the urinary bladder in Egypt which was found to be of high statistically significance in both males and females in rural areas. In this study, bladder squamous metaplasia was subdivided into non-keratinizing. with less malignant potential, keratinizing with a definite affinity to carcinogenesis and invasive severe forms; but these subdivisions were found to be statistically not significant in relation to gender, age and locality, although they were of importance for the proper and successful management of the encountered cases.
TL;DR: Skeeter syndrome is an allergy to mosquito saliva secreted while taken a human blood meal as discussed by the authors, it is present with extreme swelling, itching, blistering, infection, fever and general malaise, some cases develop asthma and cellulitis and even threatening anaphylactic shock.
Abstract: Skeeter Syndrome is an allergy to mosquito saliva secreted while taken a human blood meal. It is present with extreme swelling, itching, blistering, infection, fever and general malaise, some cases develop asthma and cellulitis and even threatening anaphylactic shock. Most people of all ages particularly small children, toddlers and seniors who suffer from skeeter syndrome experience a very extreme reaction showed some allergic reaction level, with itching and redness.Sometimes, the swelling is painful and so extreme that the affected limb doubles in size, eyes swell shut, and the area feels hot and hard to the touch or the bite will blister and ooze.
TL;DR: During the present study, S. mansoni was documented as a not uncommon cause of chronic colitis and for the first time from Sohag as a cause of Chronic appendicitis.
Abstract: Schistosomiasis is a chronic granulomatous inflammation that affects many systems in the body including the gastrointestinal tract. Appendiceal schistosomiasis is also described and can be a precursor lesion of schistosomal appendicitis. The present study was done to make a retrospective analysis of histopathological changes in the gastrointestinal tract affected by Sckistosoma mansoni among patients attending Sohag University Hospital, Sohag Governorate between June 2013 and June 2016. A total of 150 colon and 30 appendix specimens were collected through out the period from male infected pa- tients aged between 35-50 years and suffering from abdominal pain and dysentery. Histopathological examination of the tissue biopsies was performed. 5p tissue sections were prepared and examined microscopically. Ten specimens were documented to have intestinal schistosomiasis, nine of the colon 9/150 (6%) were diagnosed as chronic schistosomal colitis and one of the appendix 1/30 (3.3%) as chronic schistosomal appendicitis. Microphotographs of the tissue sections were prepared for histopathological observations. Histopathological examination of all specimens revealed degenerated pinkish and calcified bluish bilharzial eggs in the submucosa and even musculosa with surrounding granulomatous reaction. Bilharzial polyps of the colon were detected in two specimens (20%) and bilharzial worms within venules of the muscle layer in two specimens (20%). During the present study, S. mansoni was documented as a not uncommon cause of chronic colitis and for the first time from Sohag as a cause of chronic appendicitis. All specimens did not show any malignant or premalignant cells.
TL;DR: The combination of SEA & PZQ was as a possible potent and promising prophylactic treatment for schistosomiasis especially during re-infectiob in endemic areas.
Abstract: Control of schistosomiasis would be greatly improved by the development of a vaccine, which could be combined with chemotherapy. The current study evaluated the potential effect of soluble egg antigens (SEA) associated with or without PZQ in Schistosoma mansoni challenged mice through parasitological, histopathological and serological studies. Sixty Swiss albino fe- male mice divided into 5 groups (12 mice each); each group was subdivided into 2 groups (6 mice each) according initial and challenged infections. Mice were sacrificed by rapid decapita- tion 8 weeks post initial and challenge infections for assessment. The current results showed marked reduction of egg counts per gram stool, worm burden, granuloma number and size in combined SEA and PZQ group. Also, significant increase in serum IL-12 & INF-,y, plus marked decrease in serum IL-4 during initial and challenged infections. The role of PZQ alone was mainly during primary infection and had no role in reinfection, whereas, SEA alone was effec- tive during challenged one. In conclusion, from the obtained results of the current study the combination of SEA & PZQ was as a possible potent and promising prophylactic treatment for schistosomiasis especially during re-infectiob in endemic areas. This prophylactic effect was significantly greater than those observed in the single drug treatment or vaccine used.
TL;DR: Adaptation of modified Dot-ELISA technique described in this work perform an easily field applied mass screening technique depends on using a minute amount of serum without special equipment, which improved capability of early diagnosis and control strategy of toxoplasmosis in man and animals.
Abstract: 979 MODIFIED DOT ELISA FOR DIAGNOSIS OF ZOONOTIC TOXOPLASMOSIS IN MAN AND SHEEP WITH CLINICAL SUGGESTIVE MANIFESTATIONS By MOHAMED M. EL-BAHY, MORSY RATEB GENEIDY, LILIAN N. MAHROUS And GHADA H. ABDEL-RAHMAN Departments of Parasitology, Faculties of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, And Beni-Sweif University and Department of Biology, Animal Reproduction Research Institute, Giza, Egypt (*Correspondence:drmelbahy@yahoo.com) Abstract Fractionation of Toxoplasma gondii RH strain tachyzoites (TTAg) using SDS-PAGE and identification of its specific bands versus control sera using EITB revealed five group of specific fractions corresponding to molecular weight (MW) level of 32-34 kda, 46kda, 53 kda, 78 kda and 100 kda. Fractions of 32-34 kda were the most sensitive and specific one able to capturing very low level of anti-Toxoplasma Ab in the sera and did not cross react with anti-parasites antibodies (Ab) as hydatedosis, S. mansoni, HCV, F. gigantica and Cysticercus ovies as well as control noninfected sera. Thick transverse gel strip containing the fraction of 32-34kda were cut out, its contents were eluted and concentrated, Dotting of 2μl from this fraction on 4mm diameter nitrocellulose (NC) discs for development a modified dot-ELISA technique were evaluated in diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in group of suspected women and sheep. This technique succeeded in diagnosis of the specific anti-toxoplasma Ab in sera of seven suspected sheep, all of them aborted after this. Investigation of some haematological and serum chemical parameters demonstrated significant (p≤0.05) deviations in the values of WBCs, AST, Urea and Cholesterol, which considered to be important in supporting early diagnoses of infection in suspected cases. Adaptation of modified Dot-ELISA technique described in this work perform an easily field applied mass screening technique depends on using a minute amount of serum without special equipment. Dot-ELISA by this way gathering the benefits of accuracy of EITB and overcome the cross reaction phenomenon characteristic to ELISA. This improved capability of early diagnosis and control strategy of toxoplasmosis in man and animals.
TL;DR: Because of an abundance of tocopherols in the human diet, its deficiency is rare except in individuals with pancreatic insufficiency or other conditions causing substantial fat malabsorption,or protein-energy malnutrition and may be caused by rare genetic defects affecting vitamin E metabolism or transport.
Abstract: Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties; it protects cellmembranes from oxidation and destruction, found in a variety of foods including oils, meat,eggs, and leafy vegetables. Their serums levels are strongly influenced by concentration of serumlipids, and do not accurately reflect tissue vitamin levels. Effective vitamin E levels arecalculated as the ratio of serum alpha-tocopherol per gram total lipids.Absorption of dietary vitamin E requires effective pancreatic exocrine function and fat absorption,unless provided in a synthetic water-soluble form. Also, a specific protein (alphatocopheroltransfer protein) is required for effective transport and use. Signs and symptoms ofvitamin E deficiency include hemolysis, neuromuscular disorders, ataxia, and peripheral neuropathy.Because of an abundance of tocopherols in the human diet, its deficiency is rare exceptin individuals with pancreatic insufficiency or other conditions causing substantial fat malabsorption,or protein-energy malnutrition and may be caused by rare genetic defects affectingvitamin E metabolism or transport. No syndrome of acute vitamin E toxicity has been described.In premature infants, high-dose vitamin E treatment was associated with increased riskfor sepsis. Chronic intake of supplements in excess of 400 IU daily has been associated with increasedrisk of hemorrhage and all-cause mortality.
TL;DR: PSI significantly associated with low prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its components, including central obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL-C, and potential long-term effects of PSI may reduce metabolic syndrome risk.
Abstract: Schistosome antigens modulate host metabolic profiles in experimental animals. The effects of previous schistosome infection (PSI) and the development of metabolic syndrome remain unknown in humans. This study evaluated previous schistosome infection (PSI) related to metabolic syndrome (MS). A total of 547 participants aged >40 years from rural areas of Zagazig district were enrolled. Of them, 269 patients with. PSI and 305 normal served as controls. For all participants blood pressure, height, body weight and waist circumstance (WC) were measured. Blood samples were examined biochemically to determine triglyceride (TG), fasting blood glucose (FBG) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HIDL-C). Associations between PSI and MS were evaluated using logistic regression. Patients with PSI had significantly lower levels of body mass index (BMI), WC, TG, insignificantly low levels of fasting -blood glucose (FBG) and significantly higher levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) compared with controls. Prevalence of MS in PSI was significantly low than controls (32.7% vs. 42.3% respectively). PSI significantly associated with low prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its components, including central obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL-C. Potential long-term effects of PSI may reduce metabolic syndrome risk.
TL;DR: The results showed variable degrees of lethal potentials were obtained by all examined A. hypogaea L. pericarp ethanol extract and its successive fractions, with the highest mean of non-viable cysts on the first and the second days.
Abstract: Acanthamoeba is an opportunistic pathogen cauAing keratitis and fatal encephalitis. Early diagnosis, followed by intense treatment using a drugs mixture is a necessity for effective therapy. Many natural compounds have proved lethal effects, yet the search for original natural amebicidal agents is still of current concern. This study investigated the acanthamoebicidal effect of A. hypogaea L. pericarp; total ethanol extract and its successive fractions, n-hexane, dichloro-methane, ethyl acetate, and methanol as well as resveratrol. Acanthamoebae were isolated and cultivated on E. coli seeded non-nutrient agar, genotyped, and the in vitro acanthamoebicidal potentials of different concentrations of A. hypogaea L. pericarp; total extract ethanol and its successive fractions and resveratrol compound was investgated on cysts of A. astronyxis T7 genotype. The results showed variable degrees of lethal potentials were obtained by all examined A. hypogaea L. pericarp ethanol extract and its successive fractions, with the highest mean of non-viable cysts on the first and the second days. bf the study by total ethanol extract followed by the methanol fraction . On the third day of the study n-hexane and ethyl acetate gave the highest mean of non-viable cysts. Resveratrol showed the lowest mean of non-viable cysts count all through the study duration. Significantly higher difference was observed between all examined A. hypogaea L. pericarp extract and fractions and chlorohexidine, except for resveratrol compound the difference was found to be noinsignificant.
TL;DR: This study elucidated the establishment of a method that can detect most, if not all, of the recent infections with T gondii through detecting both the immunological and genetic markers.
Abstract: The differentiation between acute and latent forms of Toxoplasma gondii (T gondii) infection is still considered as a complicated issue. This study elucidated the establishment of a method that can detect most, if not all, of the recent infections with T gondii through detecting both the immunological and genetic markers. The study included cases' group (G1): 30 pregnant women considered to be a high-risk group (with history of abnormal pregnancy outcomes), and the controls (G2) were 20 apparently healthy women cross matched in ages but with a history of normal pregnancy. The two groups were subjected to PCR and immunoblotting in the diagnosis of T. gondii infection compared to the routinely used assays (Rapid toxo IgM by immunochromatog- raphy & ELISA IgM). The results showed that of 30 pregnant women (Gi) 3(10%) were positive by Rapid Toxo- IgM, 5(16.67%) by ELISA-IgM, 9(30%) by immunoblotting and 6(20%) by PCR.