No.

Titles / Authors

Full

Text

No.

1

Evaluation of Some Predictive Factors Influencing Ovarian Response in Cases of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection

Afaf Aly Ismail¹, Ahmed Mohamed Rammah² and Amal Ismail Mahmoud Hussien ³

¹Department of Gynecology and obstetrics Faculty of Medicine for Girls, AL Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt

²International Islamic center for population study and research, AL Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt

³Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics resident, Helwan general hospital, Ministry of health, Cairo, Egypt

Al_taquwa@yahoo.com; dr.amal.yaar@gmail.com

Abstract: Background: There are controversies about the role of different factors affecting ovarian stimulation, correlation between them in prediction of ovarian response and pregnancy achievement through the process of intracytoplasmic sperm injection and the prognosis of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer The purpose of this study was to evaluate some of the ovarian reserve factors affecting ovarian stimulation including (age, body mass index (BMI), follicle stimulating hormone -to- luteinizing hormone ratio (FSH / LH), anti mullerian hormone (AMH)) in cases undergoing intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using the long agonist protocol. Methods: A prospective randomized study including 100 infertile women undergoing ICSI using long agonist protocol was conducted at International Islamic Center For Population Studies And Research - Assisted Reproduction Unit (Al-Azhar University) in the period between January 2015 to November 2017. Results: Our data demonstrated that the circulating AMH levels and FSH/LH ratio were preferable in prediction number of oocyte retrieved outcome during GnRH long agonist protocol than age, BMI and the other currently used hormone markers. The current results also confirm that AMH level ranges positively impact oocytes quality in the form of MΠ after COH. Serum AMH levels was the most accurate marker in predicting ovarian response to ovulation induction by gonadotropins in ICSI patients taking P value < 0.002. The present study demonstrated that there was statistically significant in FSH/LH ratio as regards number of oocytes retrieved. The day 3 FSH/LH ratio ≤ 2 was associated with higher number of oocytes retrieved (P value 0.040). Furthermore, we observed higher number of top-quality oocytes (in the form of M Π) with the day 3 FSH/LH ratio ≤ 2. Conclusion: Serum AMH levels was the most accurate marker in predicting ovarian response to ovulation induction by gonadotropins in ICSI patients. Day 3 FSH/LH ratio could be used as an additional important predictor for compromised ovarian reserve and response, in refining the treatment protocol accordingly and avoiding potential reticulations especially in younger patients. Over all markers of ovarian response in our study, there was no factor that could predict pregnancy in high accuracy as it is multifactorial.

[Afaf Aly Ismail, Ahmed Mohamed Rammah and Amal Ismail Mahmoud Hussien. Evaluation of Some Predictive Factors Influencing Ovarian Response in Cases of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):1-11]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 1. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.01.

Keywords: Evaluation; Predictive Factor; Influencing Ovarian Response; Case; Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection

Full Text

1

2

Growth Pattern of Preschool Children in Dakahlia

Prof. Mohamed Mohamed El-Mazahy; Prof. Hussein Metwali Abdel-Maksoud and Reham Gamal El-Ghareb Ali El-Azab

Pediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt
moh_rm2010@yahoo.com

Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the growth patterns of Dakahlia preschool children with the Egyptian growth reference charts. Background: Growth and maturation of children is a dynamic and complex biological process, influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Methods: This research included 1500 children of both sexes, aged between 3-6 years apparent healthy 3-6 years from nearby nurseries. All children included in this research were subjected to; complete history taking and clinical examination including; assessment of body weight, height and body mass index. Results: 1.93% of the sampled children were underweight and 0.13% were severely underweight. 1.9% of the sampled children were underweight (<5th percentile), while 1.4% of the sampled children were overweight (>97th percentile). Height among males was higher than that among females (112.3±9.2 and 108.3±8.42 cm) respectively, the same occur with weight (17.62±3.42 kg and 16.72±3.32 kg) respectively. Conclusion: Nutritional status is an integral component of the overall health of an individual and provides an indicator of the well-being of children living in a particular region.
[Mohamed Mohamed El-Mazahy, Hussein Metwali Abdel-Maksoud and Reham Gamal El-Ghareb Ali El-Azab. Growth Pattern of Preschool Children in Dakahlia. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):12-15]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 2. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.02.

Key term: Body weight, Child, Overweight, Preschool.

Full Text

2

3

Serum Cystatin C and Beta-2-microglobulin as Early Biomarkers of Diabetic Nephropathy in Patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Sherief El-Ghannam¹, Mahmoud Bastawy², Mekky Abdel-Monem², Tarek Emran¹, and Ahmed Salama³

¹Departement of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University (Damietta), Egypt.

²Departement of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University (Cairo), Egypt.

³Departement of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University (Damietta), Egypt.

sheriefelghannam@gmail.com

Abstract: Changes in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) provide a valuable indicator of the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). This study was designed to demonstrate the clinical values of serum cystatin C (Cys C) and b₂ microglobulin in the assessment of renal function in type 2 diabetics by comparing with the GFR. Patients and Methods: 75 type 2 diabetic patients with (urinary albumin excretions (UAE) < 30 mg/24h) (n=39) and without (UAE 30-300 mg/24h) (n=29) microalbuminuria and 32 controls were enrolled in the study. Serum Cys C, b₂ microglobulin, creatinine, urinary microalbumin levels and eGFR values were determined in all groups. Results: Serum CysC, b2-microglobulin, glucose and HbA1c concentrations were significantly high in normoalbuminurics and in microalbuminurics compared to controls. In the patients with microalbuminuria, serum CysC and glucose concentrations increased significantly in comparison to patients with normoalbuminuria, while no differences were observed for b2-microglobulin levels. Serum creatinine concentrations and GFR values were not different between both diabetic group and controls. CysC was positively correlated with b2-microglobulin and creatinine and negatively with GFR values; b2-microglobulin was also positively correlated with serum creatinine in microalbuminurics. A significant inverse correlation was found between b2-microglobulin and GFR values in both microalbuminurics and normoalbuminurics. Conclusions: Increased CysC and b₂ microglobulin in the microalbuminurics may be early indicators of incipient DN. The significant elevation of CysC and b₂ microglobulin in the normoalbuminurics compared to controls may be indicative of an increased risk for DN.

[Sherief El-Ghannam, Mahmoud Bastawy, Mekky Abdel-Monem, Tarek Emran, and Ahmed Salama. Serum Cystatin C and Beta-2-microglobulin as Early Biomarkers of Diabetic Nephropathy in Patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):16-21]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 3. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.03.

Key Words: Type 2 diabetes, beta 2-microglobulin, cystatin C, diabetic nephropathy

Full Text

3

4

Optimization of Process Conditions for Briquette Production From Rice Husk and Saw Dust

Enemuo, Sergius, M, Ejikeme, Ebere, M, Aneke, N. A. G.

^1.Department of Chemical Engineering, Enugu State University of Science and Technology Enugu, Nigeria

enemuoserge@yahoo.com

Abstract: This study investigated the optimization of the process parameters for the production of rice husk and saw dust briquettes using Central Composite Design. The briquettes were produced mechanically with a hydraulic operated briquette machine using cassava starch as a binder. Three numeric factors which were binder ratio, compaction pressure and dwelling time and one categoric factor which was the type of biomass with two levels of saw dust and rice husk were studied. Calorific value of the produced briquette was used as the response of interest. Prior to compaction, the biomasses were carbonized to reduce the volatile matter and to increase their energy content. Quadratic model was generated and validated for the optimization process. Maximal calorific value of 29528.6KJ/Kg was obtained for saw dust briquette at compaction pressure of 85.03Kgf, binder ratio of 18.9% and dwelling time of 40.22mins, while that of rice husk was calorific value of 26387.1KJ/Kg, at compression pressure of 75.02Kgf, binder ratio of 10% and dwelling time of 30mins. It was observed that the produced briquettes comparatively had good properties.

[Enemuo, Sergius, M., Ejikeme, Ebere, M., Aneke, N. A. G. Optimization of Process Conditions for Briquette Production From Rice Husk and Saw Dust. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):22-29]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 4. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.04.

Keywords: Briquette, Central composite design, Optimization, Rice husk, Saw dust.

Full Text

4

5

In -Vitro Activities Of Some Common Disinfectants On Aspergillus Fumigatus Isolated From Selected Wards At The University College Hospital (Uch), Ibadan

¹Soyemi E.T., ¹Kolade A.F., ²Oluwadun A., ³Effedua H.I.

¹Department of Medical Microbiology/Parasitology, University College Hospital Ibadan

²Department of Medical Microbiology/Parasitology, Olabisi Onabanjo University Shagamu Ogun state

³Department of Medical Medical Laboratory Science Badcock University, Ogun state.

lizzysoyemi@gmail.com

Abstract: Aspergillus fumigatus are considered important mycoses-causing agents in hospital environments and represents an infectious risk for patients. Incidence of invasive aspergillosis has been associated with fungal exposure and the most effective way of reducing its occurrence is to eliminate all reservoir and avoid direct patient exposure to environmental Aspergillus conidia using appropriate disinfectant. This study was therefore, designed to investigate the activities of some common disinfectants sold in Nigeria on Aspergillus fumigatus isolated from selected wards at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. Thirteen disinfectants commonly used in hospitals were randomly purchased and their effectiveness on Aspergillus fumigatus isolated from some wards were determined using time kill test, and Agar disc diffusion method to determine the MIC and MFC ratio. The result of the purity test showed that all the 13 disinfectants were sterile prior to use producing 100% reduction in growth of Aspergillus fumigatus in 30seconds. Analysis of anti-Aspergillus activities of the 13 diluted disinfectants by agar- disc diffusion method showed a significant difference (P<0.05). Formaldehyde was the most potent, followed by Dettol, Robert and Methylated spirit. The result of the quantitative test using the MBC/MIC ratio showed that the highest MIC of (1/2) was observed with Jik while the least MICs (1/64) were exhibited by Formaldehyde and Iodine. The presence of organic matter (plasma) in the undiluted and diluted disinfectants, significantly lowered the anti-Aspergillus fumigatus activities of the disinfectants (t = 2.15, P<0.05). The disinfectants tested possessed in-vitro anti-Aspergillus fumigatus activities.

[Soyemi E.T., Kolade A.F., Oluwadun A., Effedua H.I. In -Vitro Activities Of Some Common Disinfectants On Aspergillus Fumigatus Isolated From Selected Wards At The University College Hospital (Uch), Ibadan. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):30-36]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 5. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.05.

Key words: Aspergillus fumigatus, Disinfectants, Ward, University College Hospital, Ibadan

Full Text

5

6

Isolation of Neural Stem Cells from Olfactory Mucosa and Olfactory Bulb of Adult Albino Rats

Osama M. A. M. Elzahaby1, Rania A. Galhom2, Wageh Mansour Abdel-Hay1, Mamdouh Abdel-Halim Ghaly1.

1Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University.
2Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University
Drosamaelzahaby2016@gmail.com

Abstract: Background: Olfactory stem cells (OSCs) can be isolated from the olfactory mucosa and proliferate in culture media allowing studying their characters and differentiation into one or more specialized cells to be used in treatment of various diseases. The aim of this study is to isolate neural stem cells from the olfactory mucosa and olfactory bulb of the adult male albino rats and characterize the isolated cells regarding their morphology and expression of MSCs markers. Materials and methods: The OSCs have been isolated from the olfactory mucosa and olfactory bulb of the adult male albino rats, cultured and characterized morphologically and immunohistochemically. Results: OSCs were successfully isolated cultured in DMEM F-12 media supplemented with 10 % FBS and 1% penicillin/streptomycin. The cells were identified by their characteristic morphology having spindle shape cytoplasmic processes, their plastic. Adherence tendency and colony formation till the 3rd passage. Immunohistochemically they also characterized showing positive expression for CD44 and Nestin and negative expression for CD34. Conclusion: The results of this study explained that, the OSCs can be successfully isolated from the olfactory mucosa and olfactory bulb of the adult albino rats, cultured to proliferate in suitable medium and show the morphological and phenotypic characterization of mesenchymal stem cells.
[Osama M. A. M. Elzahaby, Rania A. Galhom, Wageh Mansour Abdel-Hay, Mamdouh Abdel-Halim Ghaly. Isolation of Neural Stem Cells from Olfactory Mucosa and Olfactory Bulb of Adult Albino Rats. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):37-45]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 6. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.06.

Key words: Isolation, culture, characterization, morphology, phenotype, olfactory stem cells

Full Text

6

7

Association of helicobacter pylori positivity with symptoms in patients with Hyperemesis gravidarum

Hossam El-Deen Hussein Kamel¹, Abdelhaleem Mohamed Abdelhaleem¹, El Sayed Ahmed El Desouky¹ , ELSayed Ali Farage¹ , Mohamed Saied Tayel¹ and Mahmoud Abd Elatif Hashish²

¹Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Egypt.

²Department of Clinical Pathology Faculty of Medicine, Al-AzharUniversity, Egypt.

Abstract: Objective: To investigate Association between Helicobacter pylori infection and hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) during early pregnancy by using serologic and stool antigen tests. Materials and Methods: Case control study was performed on 40 pregnant women with HG and 40 asymptomatic controls without gastric problems at ( 7-13) weeks of gestation admitted at obstetrics' and gynecology departments at Al Azhar university hospitals,  Damanhur Medical National Institute, and  kafr-Eldwar General Hospital. The presence of H pylori was analyzed in the sera of the study-group and control group patients by serology-specific IgG test in serum and by a stool antigen test in fecal samples. Results: The rates of serology-specific H pylori IgG positivity were 77.5% in patients with HG and 55% in control group. The difference between the two groups was significant] (P= 0.05). The rates of H pylori stool antigen test positivity were 75% (35 of 40) in patients with HG and 37.5% in control groups. The difference between the two groups was significant (P = 0.001). Conclusion: There is an association between Helicobacter pylori infection and hyperemesis gravidarum, allowing us to conclude that Helicobacter pylori should be considered as one of the risk factors of HG. Screening for Helicobacter pylori should be added to the investigations of HG, especially if prolonged or refractory to the traditional management.

[Hossam El-Deen Hussein Kamel, Abdelhaleem Mohamed Abdelhaleem, El Sayed Ahmed El Desouky, ELSayed Ali Farage, Mohamed Saied Tayel and Mahmoud Abd Elatif Hashish Association of helicobacter pylori positivity with symptoms in patients with Hyperemesis gravidarum. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):46-50]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online).http://www.sciencepub.net/nature.7. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.07.

Keywords: Association; helicobacter; pylori positivity; symptoms; patient; Hyperemesis gravidarum

Full Text

7

8

Genetic Characterization of Certain Ascochyta species Using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD)

Hanan A. Nor-El-Din¹ and Ghada A. Kolaly²

¹Genetic Engineering Research Institute, ARC, Giza, Egypt

²Plant Pathology Research Institute, ARC, Giza, Egypt

gkolaly@gmail.com

Abstract: The aim of this study was to use the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique as a tool for setting up a convenient and standard protocol to study the intergenetic variation between the three species of Ascochyta (A. pinodella, A. pinodes and A. pisi) and at the same time between the intragenetic variations within each species.

[Hanan A. Nor-El-Din and Ghada A. Kolaly. Genetic Characterization of Certain Ascochyta species Using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD). Nat Sci 2018;16(9):51-61]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 8. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.08.

Keywords: Genetic Characterization; Ascochyta; species; Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD)

Full Text

8

9

Hepatitis C virus coinfection in human immunodeficiency virus-infected pregnant women in Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria

Cornelius Arome Omatola1*, Martin-luther Oseni Okolo1, Joseph Oyiguh Abraham2, Rebecca Bola-Boro1, David Moses Adaji1, Ndah Sumaila Akpala1, Patience Omebije Adejoh1, Onwuatuegwu Joseph Taiwo Chukwuma3

1Department of Microbiology, P.M.B.1008, Kogi State University, Anyigba, Nigeria
2Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Federal Polytechnic, Idah, Kogi State, Nigeria.
3Department of Microbiology, Tansian University, Umunya, Anambra State.
omatolac@gmail.com

Abstract: Co-infection of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive pregnant women with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality globally. Due to the dearth of documented HCV studies among HIV patients in this study area, there was a need for determining the seroprevalence and risk factors of HCV infection among HIV seropositive mothers in the study population. Blood samples obtained from 200 HIV seropositive pregnant women in a cross-sectional study design were screened for anti-HCV antibody using the commercial ARIA® HCV-Ab test kit. Patient’s demographic data, behavioural and obstetric characteristics were collected using a structured questionnaire. Five (2.5%) of the patients were co-infected with HIV/HCV and pregnant women aged ≥41 years have the highest prevalence of dual infection by both viruses. Women in their first trimesters of pregnancy had higher rate of coinfection although, gestation was not statistically related to acquisition of HCV infection (P˃0.05). Factors such as blood transfusion (P=0.002; OR=24.89; 95% CI: 2.68-231.15) and history of abortion (P=0.001; OR=47.25; 95% CI: 6.62-337.17) were significantly associated with HCV seropositivity. HCV is a public health concern in HIV positive pregnant women in Lokoja and epidemiological study on larger scale is needed to unravel the true burden of the disease in the study area.
[Omatola CA, Okolo MO, Abraham JO, Bola-Boro R, Adaji DM, Akpala NS, Adejoh, PO, Chukwuma OJT. Hepatitis C virus coinfection in human immunodeficiency virus-infected pregnant women in Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):62-68]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 9. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.09.

Keywords: Hepatitis C virus, HIV, Co-infection, Risk factors, Pregnant women

Full Text

9

10

Risk Factors Analysis in Complicated Leg Wound after Saphenous Vein Harvesting for Myocardial Revascularization

Ayman M. Shaalan ^1,2, Moataz E. Rezk², Eman E. Elwakeel³, Lamiaa M. Shawky⁴, Eman El Bana ³, Khaled M. Shaalan ⁵ and Ahmad Adib Awad⁶

¹Dallah Hospital, Cardiac Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,

²Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt

³Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt

⁴Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt

⁵General Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt

⁶Dallah Hospital, Statistician, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

eman.ismail@fmed.bu.edu.eg

Abstract: It is often painful to both the surgeon and the patient when wound complication develops or when the wound outcome post coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is suboptimal. Our aim in this study was to analyze anatomical variations and perioperative risk factors leading to leg wound infection post CABG at the graft harvesting site. A retrospective study was carried out on 1251 patients who underwent CABG surgery. They were classified into 2 groups: The demographic, operative and postoperative data were collected and statistical analysis was performed to assess risk factors predisposed to leg wound infection post CABG in both groups. The study included 2 groups, group I: who had infected leg wound: (n= 76, 6.1%) and group II: non infected cases post CABG: (n=1175, 93.9%). Multivariate analysis for risk factors showed that high lipid profile was significantly associated with leg wound infection (p-value= 0.005), Odds ratio 3.769 (95% CI 1.5-9.45). Peripheral arterial disease also was significant finding (P-value=0.021), Odds ratio 1.98(95% CI 1.34 -3.45) as well as hypoalbuminemia (p-value=0.043), Odds ratio 1.32 (95%CI 1.02-2.32). The highest correlation was documented in the presence of unusual course of saphenous vein (p-value= 0.004), Odds ratio 5.44 (95% CI 3.21-6.85). On the other hand the demographic data as age, sex and BMI were not significant risk factors for leg wound infection in multivariate analysis model. The knowledge and identification of anatomical variations of GSV play an important role in increasing the success and improving outcome post-surgical intervention.

[Ayman M. Shaalan, Moataz E. Rezk, Eman E. Elwakeel, Lamiaa M. Shawky, Eman El Bana, Khaled M. Shaalan and Ahmad Adib Awad. Risk Factors Analysis in Complicated Leg Wound after Saphenous Vein Harvesting for Myocardial Revascularization. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):69-77]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 10. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.10.

Keywords: Saphenous vein, anatomical variation, CABG, infection, leg wound

Full Text

10

11

Evaluation of Quantitative Lung Index as a Gestational Age–Independent Sonographic Parameter to Characterize Fetal Lung Growth

Yehia Abdelsalam Wafa¹, Samir Abdalla Aly¹, Mohamed Ibrahim Mostafa², Mahmoud Mohamed Abdelmaksoud²

¹Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University.

²Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, El-Galaa Teaching Maternity Hospital.

dr_mahmod@msn.com

Abstract: The most common cause of mortality and neonatal morbidity in preterm and early term fetuses is lung immaturity. The current methods used to test fetal lung maturity (FLM), including lamellar body count, lecithin-sphingomyelin ratio, or TDx fetal lung maturity assay II test are performed in amniotic fluid and, consequently, require an invasive procedure. The prediction of lung maturity by noninvasive ultrasound methods has been extensively explored. Earlier studies comparing fetal lung echogenicity with the placenta, fetal gut, or liver demonstrated ultrasonographic changes associated with fetal lung maturation. Other studies used free floating particles in amniotic fluid as a method to evaluate fetal lung maturity by ultrasound. Also the distal femoral epiphyseal secondary ossification center (DFE), may assist in predicting third-trimester gestational age. A new index, the quantitative lung index (QLI) was derived using HC and the area of the base of the right lung. QLI is relatively stable over a wide gestational age window. QLI can be calculated using the following formula: QLI = Right lung area/(HC/10)^2. The aim of the current study was clinical evaluation of Quantitative Lung Index as a gestational age–independent sonographic parameter to characterize fetal lung growth. The study was conducted at Obstetrics and Gynecology department, El Galaa Teaching Hospital, during the period between January 2014 and January 2017. Three hundred cases were included in the study. For the purpose of statistical analysis studied sonographic parameters were associated with adverse neonatal outcome (defined as TTN, RDS, BPD or mortality), serious adverse neonatal outcome (defined as RDS, BPD or mortality), and serious adverse respiratory outcome (defined as RDS or BPD). Each of studied parameters, AFFFP, DFE and QLI in included women were significant good predictors of adverse neonatal outcome, serious adverse neonatal outcome and serious adverse respiratory outcome. In order to propose a scoring system for predicting serious adverse respiratory outcome, multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the weight of association between measured variables and serious adverse respiratory outcome. A scoring system was proposed. ROC curve was performed to estimate the validity of the proposed scoring system in prediction of serious adverse respiratory outcome and showed significant predictability.

[Yehia Abdelsalam Wafa, Samir Abdalla Aly, Mohamed Ibrahim Mostafa, Mahmoud Mohamed Abdelmaksoud. Evaluation of Quantitative Lung Index as a Gestational Age–Independent Sonographic Parameter to Characterize Fetal Lung Growth. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):78-86]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 11. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.11.

Key words: fetal lung maturity, quantitative lung index, right lung area, free floating particles, distal femur epiphysis, lung to live echogenicity, scoring system

Full Text

11

12

Benefits of genetically modified crops, Biosafety concerns and related risks; A South Asian Perspective

Asad Riaz¹, Umer Karamat^1**, Javaria Tabusam¹, Abdul Manan², Saad Ullah Buttar¹, Komal Shafqat¹

¹Center of Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnolgy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.

²Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.

**Corresponding author’s email: umerkaramat23@gmail.com

Abstract: Genetically Modified (GM) crops were introduced to agriculture systems in mid-nineties by private sector. The area under these crops has been increasing since then, and currently more than a dozen of GM crops were reported to be grown on nearly 200 million hectares (185 million hectares), spread over 26 countries and 18 million farmers. GM crops were initially successful in industrial countries but trend has shifted now. 100 million hectares were grown in developing countries and 85 million hectares were grown in developed world in 2016 though new countries and crops are added each year to the list leading to increased area in both developing and industrial countries. Among the crops there are staple crops like maize, papaya, potato and soybean, commercial crops like cotton, canola and sugar-beet, and fruit trees like apples. These crops have only added to farm incomes by reducing the input costs, improved quality and did value addition but also reduced food insecurity by sustaining yields. Food insecurity becomes an essential point of discussion when it comes to developing world. Another benefit which is attached with GM crops is environmental protection from hazardous chemicals sprayed for controlling insect pests on non GM crops. At the same time biopharmaceutical production in natural plant systems by gene manipulations is being materialized. Though many gains are affiliated with GM crops but some of the safety issues are also reported including antibiotic and herbicide resistance through selectable marker genes in non-target organisms on consumption, horizontal and vertical gene flow etc. If seen in the context of South Asia it becomes even more crucial. Almost 1/3^rd of the world population resides in this region of the world and to feed such a big number of people on sustainable basis is a tough task. There is no second opinion that all the available strategies should be adopted to sustainably feed such big populations, but at the same time a huge number of people could not be put to risk by introducing controversial products in the market. During the last 15 years GM crops are introduced to South Asia legally and/or illegally or developed locally. At the same time awareness is created publically and governments have developed biosafety rules, and guidelines to deal with GM crops for safe use. In this review we will thoroughly review the benefits this region can gain from GM crops and at the same time we will review biosafety assessments and guidelines adopted by various countries for safe use of GM crops.

[Asad Riaz, Umer Karamat, Javaria Tabusam, Abdul Manan, Saad Ullah Buttar, Komal Shafqat. Benefits of genetically modified crops, Biosafety concerns and related risks; A South Asian Perspective. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):87-93]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 12. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.12.

Key Words: GM crops, South Asia, Biosafety, Insecticide, pesticide

Full Text

12

13

Normative Optic Chiasm Measurements Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Dalia Bilal1,2, Mohamed Yousef1,3, Ahmed Abukonna1, Lubna Bushara4و Mohamed Salih5

1College of Medical Radiological Sciences, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Sudan
2College of Applied Medical Science, Diagnostic Radiology Department, jazan University-Saudi Arabia.
3Radiologic Sciences Program, Batterjee Medical College, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
4Hail University, College of Medical Applied Sciences, Department of Diagnostic Radiology Sciences, Hail – KSA.
5 Medical Imaging Technology Department, Al-Ghad International College of Applied Medical Science, Abha, KSA
dalia.bilal@hotmail.com

Abstract: The study aimed to characterize the optic chiasm Measurements in normal MRI brain using coronal cuts. Concerning the subjects ages and gender. This study was done at Sudan University of science and Technology college of medical radiologic sciences - and Khartoum state hospitals, Khartoum Sudan, during the period from November 2015 to July 2018. A total of 172 images were included in this study Measurements of the height and width of the optic chiasm were obtained, on coronal T2 weighted MR images using commercially available region-of-interest software, were obtained in healthy subjects with normal MRI findings. All analyses were performed using SPSS and excel. the results of this study revealed that the mean of width of the optic chiasm was 13.04 mm, with a standard deviation of 1.21mm, The mean of height was 2.46 mm, with a standard deviation of 0.14mm, it concluded that the width and height of the optic chiasm can be measured with the use of commercially available software, which allows an objective estimate of the chiasm’s size. Knowledge of the normal size range of the optic chiasm can be helpful in the early detection of some disorders.
[Bilal D, Yousef M, Abukonna A, Bushara L, Salih M. Normative Optic Chiasm Measurements Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):94-98]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 13. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.13.

Keywords: Normative, Optic Chiasm, Measurements Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Full Text

13

14

Keratoconus Associated with Cornea Guttata - Implication for Disease Progression

Okasha M G^1,3, Suffo S¹, Daas L¹, Langenbucher A², and Seitz B¹

¹Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center UKS, Homburg/Saar, Germany

²Experimental Ophthalmology, University of Saarland, Homburg/SaarUKS, Germany

³Department of Ophthalmology, Al – Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt

mgaber.okasha@gmail.com; shady.suffo@uks.eu; loay.daas@uks.eu; achim.langenbucher@uks.eu; berthold.seitz@uks.eu

Abstract: Purpose: To describe the diagnostic considerations in patients with keratoconus (KC) and concomitant cornea guttata (CG). Patientsand Methods: The study included 31 eyesof 31 patients, 12 eyes with KC and CG (group I), 7 eyes with CG only (group II), 6 eyes with KC only (group III), and 6 normal eyes (group IV). Complete ophthalmologic examination was performed, including Scheimpflug rotation tomography, specular microscopy and endothelial cell count. Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany. Design: Retrospective, comparative study. Results: The mean age was 49.4 ± 19.7 years, 18 patients were female (58.1%). The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in LogMar was 0.5 ± 0.4 in group I, 0.6 ± 0.3 in group II,0.4 ± 0.1 in group III and 0.0 ± 0.0in group IV. The mean corneal thickness of the thinnest point was 479 ± 43 µmin group I,583 ± 49 µmin group II, 475 ± 39 µmin group III and 567 ± 22 µmin group IV. Conclusions: KC and CG may coexist in the same patient. Progression of the dystrophy may be masked by corneal ectatic thinning while progression of KC may be masked by endothelial decompensation and thickening. VA cannot be used as a predictor for the presence concomitant KC and CG. The diagnosis should consider complete ophthalmic examination, corneal topography, and tomography, along with specular microscopy.

[Okasha M G, Suffo S, Daas L, Langenbucher A, and Seitz B. Keratoconus Associated with Cornea Guttata - Implication for Disease Progression. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):99-102]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 14. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.14.

Keywords: Keratoconus, guttae, Fuchs, dystrophy

Full Text

14

15

Effect of Implementing Nursing Program on Minimizing Constipation among Immobilized Patients at Mansoura University Hospitals

Karima Fuad Elshamy¹, Walaa Nasreldin Othman², Asmaa Ahmed Hassan³

¹Assist / Professor of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Egypt.

²Lecturer of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Egypt.

³M.Sc. Faculty of Nursing. Mansoura University, Egypt.

Mohamed_cttr2010@yahoo.com

Abstract: Background: Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders that affects the quality of life of patients and well-being of patients as well as their activity of daily living. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of nursing intervention program on minimizing constipation among immobilized patients at Mansoura University Hospital. Design: The study was carried out using a quasi- experimental design. Setting: It was conducted in Neurological and Orthopedic Departments at Mansoura University Hospitals. Sample: A purposive sample of 162immobilized patients were randomly divided into two equal groups (study group 81 and control group 81), those patients were selected according inclusion and exclusion criteria. Tool for data collection: A structured interview questionnaire covering patients' demographic characteristics, medical history, dietary habits, elimination habits, their knowledge about constipation. Nurses' tool which assess nurses' knowledge and practice. Results: There was statistically significant difference between the control and study groups post-program regarding patients' knowledge and comprehensive bowel assessment and on the other hand, there was significant improvements in nurses' knowledge and performance level toward patients with constipation post-program. Conclusion: Nursing intervention program lead to an improvement in nurses' knowledge and practices regarding constipation problem and minimizing constipation among immobilized patients. Recommendation: Immobilized patients should be assessed periodically in term of risk for constipation occurrence using constipation assessment scale. Also continuous nursing performance appraisal from hospital administration personal toward providing standard nursing care to immobilized patients.

[Karima Fuad Elshamy, Walaa Nasreldin Othman, Asmaa Ahmed Hassan. Effect of Implementing Nursing Program on Minimizing Constipation among Immobilized Patients at Mansoura University Hospitals. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):103-110]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 15. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.15.

Key words: Nursing program; Constipation; Immobilized patients; Mansoura; Egypt.

Full Text

15

16

A grid based rainfall-runoff model based on rainfall satellite images at TK5 watershed

Iman Mahmoud Elazizy¹, Sherien Ahmed El-Sayed Zahran², Naglaa Mohamed El-Bendary³

1Professor of Hydraulics and Water Resources, Hydraulics & Irrigation Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University.

2Director of Climate and Environment Risk Assessments laboratory (CERAL), ECRI, NWRC, MWRI.

3Senior Water Resources Engineer- Planning Sector, MWRI, Egypt

nm_bendary@hotmail.com

Abstract: This research aims to understand the hydrological response of a watershed by estimating outlet basin discharge using the Gridded Surface and Subsurface Hydrological Analysis (GSSHA) model for the Tekezebasin, the simulation inputs are almost satellite images instead of time series data. Most of researches and studies input rainfall data as time series present measured rainfall stations, in this research the rainfall data assigned to the model in a 2D gridded format (RFE2 satellite images). Using of remote sensing data (RFE2) is a powerful tool to simulate watershed for unreachable areas. The studying watershed is a part of Atbara basin and it situated in the north part of Ethiopia and not far from the Eritrean borders. The GSSHA model is a continuous, physics based, distributed hydrologic model intended for general hydrologic/hydraulic analysis. The model is divided into equal cells which allow to define the different parameters for each cell according to different features in the watershed as the land cover or the soil type, and flows are routed from cell to another using differential equations. The pre and post processing of the model have been done under a graphical user interface WMS (Watershed Modelling System). The model tested for one year on Tekeze basin which covers around 46,025Km², the basin was simulated with grid size 8Km * 8 Km to be compatible with rainfall data resolution.

[Iman Mahmoud Elazizy, Sherien Ahmed El-Sayed Zahran, Naglaa Mohamed El-Bendary. A grid based rainfall-runoff model based on rainfall satellite images at TK5 watershed. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):111-121]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 16. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.16.

Key words: Hydrological simulation, remotesensing, hydrologic modeling, rainfall, GSSHA Model, RFE

Full Text

16

17

Monitoring the Developments of Agriculture Projects using Remote Sensing: Cases Study White Nile Sugar agriculture Project in White-Nile Sub-Basin

Iman Mahmoud Elazizy¹, Sherien Ahmed El-Sayed Zahran², Rania Abdel-Hady Saeed³, Mohamed M. Elfawy⁴

1Professor of Hydraulics and Water Resources, Hydraulics and Irrigation Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University, Egypt

2Director of Climate and Environment Risk Assessments laboratory (CERAL), ECRI, NWRC, MWRI.

3Senior Water Resources Engineer- Planning Sector, MWRI, Egypt

4Lecuture Irrigation and Hydraulics Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University, Egypt

nm_bendary@hotmail.com

Abstract: Integrated automated application Water Resources Agriculture Spatial Indicators System (WRASIS) using remote sensing was developed to monitor and assess the agriculture projects developments, time series of remotely sensed data (Agriculture Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectro-radiometer MODIS NDVI– Rain-Fall Estimate RFE 2.0). Case study of White Nile Sugar Project (WNSP) as agriculture project which is located at White Nile sub-basin in Sudanis analyzed using this developed system. The developed system includes GIS-based procedures for computing water and agriculture spatial indicators. The data used is product derived from satellite images at different spatial and temporal resolution. These products were extended automatically and stored with analysis results in spatial database, which could be used with easy manner to obtain and compute statistical data for any other study area. The developed system WRASIS could be also facilitate data analysis and presentation in the form of statistical charts and classification maps.

[Iman Mahmoud Elazizy, Sherien Ahmed El-Sayed Zahran, Rania Abdel-Hady Saeed, Mohamed M. Elfawy Monitoring the Developments of Agriculture Projects using Remote Sensing: Cases Study White Nile Sugar agriculture Project in White-Nile Sub-Basin. Nat Sci 2018;16(9):122-132]. ISSN 1545-0740 (print); ISSN 2375-7167 (online). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 17. doi:10.7537/marsnsj160918.17.

Keywords: Remote sensing; Rain-Fall; Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectro-radiometer (MODIS); Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Monitoring application, Agriculture projects.

Full Text

17