Correlation between Serum CD36 Level and Lipid Profile in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Khartoum State, Sudan

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia. DM-related dyslipidemia are associated with complications resulting from progressive damage of various organs. CD36 is 88-kD, class B scavenger receptor, expressed on different types of cells. In diabetic patients, LDL particles are glycated with strong level;this increases CD36 expression, initiates foam cell formation and accelerates atherosclerosis. Objective: This study aimed to determine the correlation between serum CD36 level and lipid profile among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Zeenam Specialized center, Khartoum State, Sudan, in a period between 2019 and 2022. Methodology: Hundred participants at different ages were included in this study;70 were type 2 diabetic patients (cases) and 30 apparently healthy individual (control). 3 ml of venous blood were collected from the participants by using a sterile needle and syringe into a labeled plain container. Each sample was stood until complete clot occurs. Clotted blood sample was then centrifuged to obtain the serum. Then they were used for measurement of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglyceride and soluble CD36 levels. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides were measured using Biosystem chemistry analyzer BTS-302. Serum CD36 was measured using Microplate Reader (URIT-660). Results: The results revealed that serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were significantly higher in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus compared with control (P = 0.03, P = 0.031, P = 0.000, P = 0.000) respectively, while there is no statistically significant differences in serum CD36 level between cases and control (P = 0.129). Also this study showed that there is no statistically significant correlation between serum CD36 level and total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, age and body mass index. Conclusion: This study concluded that there is no statistically significant difference in serum CD36 level between cases and control. And sCD36 level was not correlated with total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, body mass index, and age.

Human Kallikrein-2 and Free Prostate Specific Antigen as Biomarkers for Early Detection of Prostate Cancer, Sudan: A Case-Control Study

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is considered one of the major health threats facing males in Sudan. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is the most important laboratory test used in the diagnosis of prostate cancer, the main disadvantage of PSA is its limited specificity, which triggered a lot of interest in development, more research on other markers such as serum human kallikrein-2 (KLK-2) and free prostate specific antigen (fPSA). Objectives: To evaluate the validity of serum kallikrein-2 (KLK-2) and free prostate specific antigen (fPSA) in the early detection of prostate cancer among Sudanese patients. Method: In this study seventy men were considered as a case subject, who were diagnosed as cancer prostate at Gezira Hospital for Renal Disease and Surgery (GHRDS), Sudan during the period February 2018 to July 2019. Randomly selected sixty patients of BPH patients and forty-five apparently healthy men as control subject. KLK-2, fPSA and PSA estimations were performed from serum samples using the principle of Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Results: The results revealed a highly significant difference between the serum levels individual biomarkers (KLK-2, fPSA, PSA) and multiple biomarkers (fPSA/PSA, KLK-2/fPSA, KLK-2/PSA) for patients with prostate cancer when compared with the control groups. Furthermore, the fPSA/PSA ratio was lower in the patients with prostate cancer (P value = 0.00) than in the control group, the fPSA/PSA ratio showed that best accuracy to differentiate prostate cancer from control group, fPSA cut-off value was found to be more than (18 ng/ml), with sensitivity (93%), specificity (80%), and odds ratio (55). Conclusions: The use of multiple biomarkers rather than individual biomarkers especially fPSA/PSA ratio improves the specificity as well as maintenance of higher sensitivity for early diagnosis of the prostate cancer.

Clinico-Epidemiological Characteristics and Survival Outcomes of COVID-19 Infection in Kassala, Eastern Sudan

Introduction: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus2 (SARS-CoV-2) represents a major health problem worldwide. Thus, early detection and appropriate management of the virus will influence the outcome of the disease. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics and survival outcomes of patients with COVID-19 infection in Kassala, Eastern Sudan. Methods: A cross-sectional hospital-study was conducted among patients visiting Kassala teaching hospital with suspicion of COVID-19 infection. A structured questionnaire was used to gather clinical and socio-demo- graphic information from COVID-19 patients. Nasopharyngeal specimens and blood samples were collected and tested to confirm the diagnosis of COVID-19 infection using RT-PCR. Results: A total of 371 patients were enrolled in the study from September 2020 to January 2021, with mean age ± SD was 42.9 ± 19.9. The prevalence of COVID-19 infection was estimated at 61.7%. The majority were males 159 (69.4%), of university-level education, 96 (49.7%), and urban residents, 175 (9.7%). The most common symptoms were fever 215 (93.9%), cough 188 (82.1%), headache 179 (78.2%), and shortness of breath 154 (67.2%). Overall all mortality was reported as 16%. Older age group with the age ≥ 70, P P = 0.020, diabetes mellitus P = 0.029 were significantly associated with high case fatality. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that older age, male gender, laboratory tests (leukocytosis, lymphopenia, low Hemoglobin and high CRP) and various comorbid conditions significantly increase the disease severity and mortality. Therefore, attention should be paid to preventive measures to reduce the considerable impacts of the disease.

Streptococcal Pyrogenic Exotoxin Genes SpeA and SpeB in Isolates of Streptococcus pyogenes from Children with Pharyngitis, Gezira State, Sudan

Background: Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus, GAS) is an important human bacterial pathogen. This organism possesses many virulence factors, Streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxinone of these. Aim: Detection of Streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin SpeA and SpeB in isolated Streptococcus pyogenes. Methods: Tow hundred throat swab samples were collected from children with pharyngitis referred to Pediatric Teaching hospital and ENT hospital Wad medani, Sudan, from January to November 2021. The questionnaire was filled out to collect clinical and demographic data. Throat swabs were collected and processed with the standard microbiological procedure to isolate Streptococcus pyogenes. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done on all GAS isolates using the Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method according to clinical laboratory standard institute (CLSI) guidelines. Detection of Spy 1258 gene and Streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxins SpeA and SpeB were done by using Multiplex PCR. Results: Amongst the Tow hundred collected samples fifty-one isolates (25.5%) were identified as S. pyogenes. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed that all the GAS isolates were sensitive to Azithromycin and Penicillin. Sensitivity to Erythromycin, Gentamicin, Clarithromycin, Amoxicillin and Cephalexin were 88.2%, 86.3%, 45.1%, 41.2%, 13.7%, respectively. SpeA was detected in 17 (33.3%) and SpeB in 48 (94.1%). Conclusion: Streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin genes SpeA and SpeB were detected in 17 (33.3%) and 48 (94.1%) respectively of Streptococcus pyogenes isolates.

Molecular Identification of Streptococcus pyogenes in Isolates from Children with Pharyngitis, Gezira State, Sudan 2022

Background: Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A streptococcus) is an important Gram-positive human pathogen affected the upper respiratory tract, such as the tonsils and pharynx, and is also induces post-infection diseases such as rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis. This study aim to isolate Streptococcus pyogenes from children with pharyngitis and to evaluate the molecular identification of S. pyogenes compared with conventional methods. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted on total of 200 throat swab samples which were collected from children with pharyngitis referred to Wad medani Pediatric Teaching Hospital and Wad medani ENT hospital from January to November 2021. Demographic and clinical data were collected by questionnaire. Throat swabs were tested with the standard microbiological techniques to isolated Group A streptococcus (GAS). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed to all GAS isolates using the Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method according to clinical laboratory standard institute (CLSI) guidelines. Additionally, PCR was used to identify Spy 1258 gene of isolated bacteria. Results: From all throat swab samples screened, 51 isolates (25.5%) were identified as GAS. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed that all the GAS isolates were sensitive to Penicillin and Azithromycin. Sensitivity to Erythromycin, Gentamicin, Clarithromycin, Amoxicillin and Cephalexin were 88.2%, 86.3%, 45.1%, 41.2%, 13.7%, respectively. Based on PCR identification of Spy 1258 gene the percentage of isolated bacteria was 21%. Conclusion: The rate of isolated Streptococcus pyogenes was 25.5% by conventional methods and 21% by PCR. The bacteria were sensitive to Penicillin and Azithromycin. The Spy 1258 gene was specific for detection of Streptococcus pyogenes.

Frequency and Antimicrobials Susceptibility Pattern of <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i>Associated with Wound Infections in Surgery Department, Wad Madani Teaching Hospital, Sudan

Background: Most community and hospital acquired infections are due to Staphylococcus aureus, these infections involve both local suppurative and systemic conditions. There is an increase in the incidence rates of acquiring resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus in hospitals and community in Sudan. This study aims to detect frequency of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from surgical-sites infections (SSIs) and traumatic wounds, and to determine susceptibility to commonly used drugs. Methods: Prospective cross-sectional laboratory based study was followed, 250 patients admitted to Surgery Departments at Wad Madani Teaching Hospitals during 2019 and 2020 were recruited;with clinical manifestation of SSIs and or/traumatic wounds. Swab sample was taken from each participant and incubated aerobically on mannitol salt agar. Biochemical tests and 16rRNA gene used for Staphylococcus aureus identification. Antimicrobial susceptibility was accomplished using Kirby Bauer disc diffusion technique. Results: Infection rate of wounds in males and females equal 71% (17/250) and 29% (73/250), while infection rate in the age group of 41 to 60 years was the highest with percentage of 49% (122/250). Staphylococcus aureus constituting 76% (181/238) as predominant isolates. SSIs isolates of Staphylococcus aureus were highly resistant to tested antimicrobials. Meropeneme was the drug of choice with sensitivity of 88% and 100% for SSIs and traumatic wounds isolates respectively. Conclusion: In hospitals and community Staphylococcus aureus remain the most common cause of wounds infections. The high resistance to used drugs shown by Staphylococcus aureus in this study requires an assessment of the current situation and finding of more effective anti-staphylococcals.

The Possibilities of Chronic Renal Failure Patients Contracting Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection, Sudan

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa. The effects of the CKD on the host and the continuous therapeutic measures increase the hypothesis of blood-borne diseases transmission. Objective: This study aimed to find the frequency of occult hepatitis B virus (OBI) in patients of chronic renal failure (CRF) and to study the possibilities of infection acquisition. Methods: During 2017 and 2019, two hundred CRF patients under regular haemodialysis and attending Gezira Hospital for Renal Diseases and Surgery were recruited. Plasma specimens were collected and used for detection of hepatitis B surface antigens (HbsAg), total hepatitis B core antibodies (anti-HBc) and hepatitis B virus DNA isolation. Nested PCR reaction was followed to identify HBV. Socio-clinical data for each participant was obtained. Results: Male patients represented 64% (128/200), most frequent age group was from 41 to 60 years with percentage of 56.5% (113/200), 86% (172/200) of CRF patients were received blood while 42% (84/200) get HBV vaccination. Hepatitis B core antibodies were found in 54% (108/200) of studied cases, and 22% (42/188) of tested DNA were positively amplified for target gene. Detection of Hepatitis B core antibodies was significantly associated with marital status while absence of vaccination significantly associated with the detection of both hepatitis B core antibodies and HBV DNA. Conclusion: This study found high frequency of OBI in CRF patients, to reduce the transmission of the disease, possible hypotheses should be studied, including blood transfusion, haemodialysis process and HBV vaccination status.

Association of Hyperhomocysteinaemia with Hyperglycaemia, Dyslipidaemia, Hypertension and Obesity

There is conflicting scientific data about the link between, high homocysteine (Hcy) levels in the general population, and obesity. This is a case-control study aimed to assess the role of hyperhomocysteinemia in obesity and its associated illnesses, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia in Gezira state, Sudan. Two hundred and eleven participants were included in the study, 140 were obese (117 females and 23 males) and 71 were normal weight control, the obese median age was 49.49 ± 12.2 years. The control group consisted of 71 individuals with an average age of 45.78 ± 17.67 years. Among those who were already known to be obese, 67 (47.9%) reported having type II diabetes mellitus, 71 (50.7%) reported having hypertension, and 35 (25%) were obese without having either diabetes or hypertension. Three mls of venous blood from each participant were collected in the morning after a 12 h overnight fasting in Lithium heparin containers then the plasma was separated and stored at -80&deg;C for analysis. Serum Hcy and lipid profile were measured using the enzymatic method by Cobas C 411 analyzer. In comparison to obese non-hypertensive, the results showed that obese hypertensive with Hcy levels > 15 mol/L had a considerably increased risk (OR 1.12). When Hcy levels > 15 mol/L were compared to obese diabetics and obese non-diabetics, insignificant difference was shown (P: 0.345). Males had a higher likelihood of having hyperhomocysteinemia than females did (OR 1.2). Homocysteine, cholesterol triglyceride, LDL, and HDL mean values were compared between case and control groups using the independent sample t-test, and the results revealed statistically significant (P: <0.05). Relationships between hyperhomocysteinaemia and cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL in the group of obese individuals were not statistically significant (P: 0.574, 0.265, 0.748, and 0.14), respectively. Obesity and Hcyconcentrations were shown to be substantially correlated. However, there was no statistically significant association between baseline plasma Hcy levels and hyperglycemia, hypertension, or dyslipidemia.

Diagnostic Performance of glmM Gene and Histological Stains for Detection of Helicobacter pylori in Gastric Biopsy from Patients Admitted to Wad Madani Teaching Hospital, Sudan

Helicobacter pylori is the microbial agent most responsible for gastro-duodenal ulcer and chronic gastritis, which can develop into carcinoma of the stomach. This study was performed in Wad Medani Teaching Hospital, Sudan to detect Helicobacter pylori in stomach samples, and evaluate the performance of the tests used, which were histological stains and PCR. Gastric biopsies were obtained from 105 referred patients during endoscopy, and fixed specimens examined by haematoxylin-eosin and Warthin-Starry silver stains, while DNA was extracted for glmM gene amplification. Epigastric pain was the most common symptom at 78% (82/105) and chronic gastritis recorded with 71% (68/105) of endoscopy results. Warthin-Starry silver stain gave 31% (33/105) as positive for Helicobacter pylori followed by glmM gene 27% (28/105) and haematoxylin-eosin 24% (25/105). The study indicated good performance of histological staining and high specificity of glmM gene in detection of Helicobacter pylori from gastric biopsies.

Rating of CCR5-Delta 32 Homozygous Mutation in Sudanese HIV Patients and Sex Workers

Background: Prevention against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) includes natural resistance in the population;mainly frequency of cysteine-cysteine chemokine receptor type-5 (CCR5-delta 32 mutation). By knowing the frequency of this resistance in the community, the proportion of the population susceptible to infection can be determined. This study aimed to detect for the first time the rate of CCR5-delta 32 mutation in Sudanese individuals with HIV and sex workers. Methods: Cross-sectional study was followed in the parade from 2019 through 2021, study groups were Sudanese with HIV and sex workers. Sero-negativity of sex workers was confirmed by a rapid immunochromatography test (ICT). A blood sample was targeted for DNA isolation. PCR amplification was accomplished for CCR5 wild type and CCR5-delta 32 mutation genes using specific primers. Result: Among HIV patients, males, basic education level and ages below 60 years were commonly recorded while ages below 40 years, secondary education level and single marital status were predominated in sex workers. All HIV patients were positive for CCR5 wild type and negative for CCR5-delta 32 genotype. The sex workers group showed a frequency of 3.5% (97/200) for homozygous CCR5-delta 32 mutation. Conclusion: The rating of homozygous CCR5-delta 32 genotype in studied Sudanese sex workers was relatively more than other results obtained from African countries, and the mutation was significantly detected among sex workers group (P value = 0.008) when compared to the studied HIV group.

Antibacterial, Antioxidant Activities and GC-MS Analysis of Dichrostachys cinera (L.) Ethanolic Leaves Extract

Traditional medicinal plants are one of the potential sources of antimicrobial drugs and there is a great concern in the use and development of herbal medicine for the treatment of various infections. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial, and antioxidant activities of Dichrostachys cinera ethanolic leaves extract and to determine the components of the crude extract. D. cinera extract was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853. The antibacterial, antioxidant activities and active constituents were determined using standard methods. Antibacterial activity of the crude extract findings showed that all bacterial candidates were susceptible where S. aureus represent MIC at 12.5 mg/ml and MBC at 25 mg/ml, E. coli and P. aeruginosa both showed MIC 25 mg/ml and MBC 50 mg/ml. In the free radical scavenging assay of the extract and the standard quercetin at concentrations of 250 μg/ml, 125 μg/ml, 50 μg/ml, 10 μg/ml, and 5 μg/ml. The radical scavenging activity for the extract was about 92%, 89.6%, 86.8%, 82.8% and 37.8% respectively, compared to quercetin which gave 89.7%, 85.8%, 62.1%, 55.5%, and 45% radical scavenging activity. The GC-Ms analysis of the total constituents demonstrated that 1,6-Anhydro-2,4-dideoxy-.beta.-D-ribo-hexo (21.26%) with different peaks, followed by Glycerin (11.56%), 1,2,3-Cyclopentanetriol (10.18%), 8,11,14-Eicosatrienoic acid, (Z,Z,Z)-(6.18%), 1H-Pyrrole, 1-methyl-(6.08%), Phytol (5.91%) and 7-Bromo-6-(2-diethylaminoethoxy)-2,3-dihyd (5.44%) as major components in the extract. Finally, this study provided useful information on the therapeutic potential of D. cinera as an antibacterial agent and recommended to be evaluated against a wide range of Bacterial and fungal strains using different solvents and different parts from the plant.

Incidence of Oxa23 and Oxa51 Genes Associated with Bacterial Isolated from Patients with Urosepsis: Single Centre Prespective

Background: Urosepsis is one of the most common infections that require empirical broad spectrum antibiotics immediately after diagnosis. This has led to development of bacterial resistance by acquiring the capability to destroy the β-lactam ring. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional hospital-based study. The study was conducted from 2019 to 2020 at Gezira Hospital for Renal diseases and surgery (GHRDS). A hundred patients were diagnosed clinically with urosepsis and the isolated organisms were Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumonia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The susceptibility test was conducted by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion technique according to clinical laboratory standard institute (CLSI) guidelines. Seventy eight samples of bacterial genomic DNA were confirmed by 16srRNA and multiplex PCR, were performed for genotypic blaOXA-51 and blaOXA-23 gene characterization of isolated bacteria. Then gel electrophoresis was used to identify the presence or absence of (blaOXA-51 and blaOXA-23) genes. Results: 88.5% (69/78) in 16srRNA detected. Using multiplex PCR, the frequencies of blaOXA-51 and blaOXA-23 genes were 13% and 10.1%, respectively. The percentages of isolates which yielded both blaOXA-51 and blaOXA-23 among P. aeruginosa was 25% (1/4), among K. pneumonia was 17% (1/6), and among E. coli was 8% (3/37). Only blaOXA-51 was detected in P. mirabilis 10% (1/10) and only blaOXA-23 was detected in S. aureus 5% (1/18). Conclusion: In this study, the presence of blaOXA-51 and blaOXA-23 genes was increased in the isolated bacteria.

Significance of Serum Electrolyte Pattern in an Eastern Sudanese Dengue Fever Patients Population

Background: Dengue virus (DENV) infection is caused by an arboviral strain and is transmitted by the mosquito Aedes Egyties which is found in Sudan especially Red Sea and Kassala states in the east. In the year 2020 there was a significant outbreak in the both states. The disease is known to cause renal and electrolyte disturbances and a thorough understanding of that which will potentially help in the prediction, diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Methods: This study is a prospective observational cross sectional study conducted in the Eastern Sudan College of Medical Science and Technology and Port Sudan Teaching Hospital. 200 confirmed Dengue virus infection patients along with 200 healthy appearing adults (as a control) were enrolled for the study. Statistical analysis was carried out after the collection of patients’ demographic, clinical, and investigational data including electrolyte values. Results: The highest incidence of DENV infection was observed in individuals of the middle age group (29%). Although fallen within reference ranges found in the literature, mean serum electrolyte values differed significantly between patients and controls and between different categories of the disease. For our patients, hyponatraemia was seen in 43.5%, hypokalaemia in 37%, hypocalcaemia in 30%, hypophosphataemia in 12% and low magnesium concentrations in 13%. Mean serum sodium concentration differed in the control (138.2 mmol/l) from in the test (132.5 mmol/l) (P. value 0.02). Similarly, mean serum potassium in the control (3.97 mmol/l) differed significantly (P. value 0.01) from test (3.30 mmol/l). Mean calcium and phosphorus (8.80 and 3.50 mg/dl) in the control were also differed from test (8.51 and 3.30), (P. values 0.02 and 0.004, respectively). In contrast, serum magnesium (mg/dl) in the control group (1.96) showed no significant difference from that of test group (1.90) (P. value 0.08). The biochemical parameters studied were neither affected by age nor by gender of the patient group. Clinically, fever was present in 97.5% of patient, headache in 95.5%, joints pain in 71%, lethargy 67%, vomiting in 49%, skin rash in 40%, abdominal pain 24% and bleeding in 17.5%. Conclusion: We strongly conclude that electrolyte evaluation should be considered in the counseling of DENV infected patients. Patients need to be subjected to necessary laboratory investigations including serum electrolyte levels to decrease the rate of morbidity and mortality associated with the disease.

Prediction of Acute Renal Failure in Dengue Fever Patients

Background: Dengue virus (DENV) infection is caused by an arboviral strain and is transmitted by the mosquito Aedes aegypti which is found in Sudan especially Red Sea and Kassala states in the east. The disease is known to cause renal disturbances and a thorough understanding of that will potentially help in the prediction, diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Methods: This study is a prospective observational cross sectional study conducted in the Eastern Sudan College of Medical Science and Technology and Port Sudan Teaching Hospital. 200 confirmed Dengue virus infected patients along with 200 healthy appearing adults (control) were enrolled for the study. Statistical analysis was carried out after the collection of patients’ demographic, clinical, and investigational data including serum urea and creatinine values. Ethical approval was obtained from the ministry of health, Red Sea state and informed written consent was obtained from each participant. Results: The highest incidence of DENV infection was observed in individuals of the middle age group (29%). Elevated blood urea levels were detected in 10 (5%) patients while elevated creatinine levels were seen in 17 (8.5%) patients. Although fallen within reference ranges found in the literature, mean blood urea and creatinine values differed significantly between patients and controls and between different categories of the disease. Mean blood urea concentration showed a statistically significant difference between the control (22.3 mg/dl) and the test (28.4 mg/dl) (P value Conclusion: We strongly conclude that renal involvement is not uncommon in Dengue fever and that blood urea and creatinine evaluation should be considered in the counseling of DENV infection patients. Patients need to be subjected to necessary laboratory investigations associated with acute kidney injury to decrease the rate of morbidity and mortality associated with the disease.

The Expression of miRNAs in Sudanese Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Khartoum State

Background: MicroRNAs (miRs) are noncoding gene regulators that may have a role as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Aim: To measure the blood levels of miR-146a, miR-126 and miR-30a in Sudanese SLE patients and to investigate their potential role in disease pathogenesis and utility as biomarkers for SLE. Material and Methods: A total of 48 SLE patients and 20 matched healthy individuals were enrolled in this study. SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) was assessed. The blood levels of miR-146a, miR-126 and miR-30a were determined by Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in all participants. Γ-INF and IL-2 were analyzed by ELISA, and CD markers were used in flow cytometry. Results: The mean age of the patients was 31.5 ± 8.5 years with disease duration > 5 years. In SLE patients, the mean blood level fold changes of miR-146a (0.33 ± 0.277;P < 0.001), miR-126 (2.44 ± 1.771;P = 0.007) and miR-30a (1.56 ± 1.40;P > 0.305) compared to controls. Down regulation of miR-146a increase expression of γ-INF (P < 0.002), whereas the up regulation of miR-126 increase expression of CD markers (P MiR-126 at a cut-off value 1.209 and miR-146a at cut-off value of 0.9233 which can discriminate between SLE patients significantly associated with SLE disease. Conversely, miR-30a was insignificantly associated with SLE disease (P value > 0.05) as no differences between the SLE patients and healthy control. Conclusion: Circulating miR-146a and miR-126 could be a potential noninvasive biomarker in SLE. This study provides an overview of the current state of research on the role of miRNAs in the immune pathogenesis and regulation of SLE. Further studies are needed in miRNAs profiling expressions of SLE diseases.

Pulmonary Tuberculosis among Suspected Sudanese Patients in Wad Madani Tuberculosis Center

Background: Tuberculosis is a health problem in Sudan and may become a greater challenge in the future due to the weakness in infection prevention measures, increase in cases of drug-resistant and the difficulty of diagnosis. Objective: The aim of this study was to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) from sputum of clinically suspected patients using the three available techniques. Methods: Three hundred participants referred to Wad Madani Tuberculosis Center during 2017-2019 were included. Early morning fresh sputum samples were subjected to Mycobacterium tuberculosis examination by Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) stain without concentration, ZN stain with centrifugation and geneXpert assay. Results: Of the 300 suspected cases;Mycobacterium tuberculosis detected in 17% (51/300) by ZN stain without concentration, 20% (59/300) by ZN stain with centrifugation and 34% (103/300) by geneXpert. The two techniques of ZN stains possessed 100% specificity and relative differences in sensitivity when compared to geneXpert assay. The significant association observed between ZN stains and geneXpert results indicated validity of ZN techniques for detection. Conclusions: The study confirmed that geneXpert is better for identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis when compared to ZN techniques which are also important for diagnosis in poor places and where the geneXpert assay is not available.

Urosepsis among Sudanese Patients: A Paradigm from Limited Resources Country

Background: Urosepsis is life-threatening sepsis that leads to organ dysfunction and results from a defective response to a urinary tract infection;the major precipitating is obstructive uropathy in the upper or lower urinary tract (UT). The magnitude and burden of bacteria that caused uropathy were reported to increase annually. In 30% of all septic patients who were diagnosed with urosepsis, 1.5% of them were found in urology and a quarter due to hospital-acquired urinary tract infections (HAUTIs). This study aims to determine the clinical pattern and the frequency of commonly used antibiotics against bacteria associated with urosepsis among Sudanese patients. Methods: This was a cross sectional laboratory-based study, study subjects were recruited from patients attended to Gezira Hospital for Renal diseases and surgery (GHRDS) and was diagnosed, on clinical and laboratory basis, to have urosepsis. Hundred (n = 100) urine samples were collected and inoculated on cysteine lactose electrolyte deficient agar (CLED) media and identify using the suitable biochemical test and performed antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion technique for selected antimicrobial agents, according to clinical laboratory standard institute (CLSI) guidelines. Results: Amongst urosepsis infection the frequency of E. coli, S. aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Klebseilla pneumonia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were (37%, 21%, 10%, 6%, 4% respectively). Resistance to commonly prescribed antibiotics was high, ranging from 17% for meropenem to 100% for cefepime. P. aeruginosa was multidrug resistant compared with other isolates. Conclusions: There was high rate of antibiotic resistance against the common causes of urosepsis in GHRDS, and this reflects the importance of culture and sensitivity test and necessitates adoption of guidelines for selection of suitable antibiotic.

Occult Hepatitis B Virus Infection: A Killer Hidden in Transfused Blood, Sudan

Introduction: Transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) through the blood is a significant risk, especially in poor countries with high endemicity. Occult transmission of HBV (OBI) is an important acquisition scenario. Objective: A cross-sectional laboratory-based study followed to detect OBI in blood of accepted donors admitted to Mad Medani Blood Bank, Sudan. Methods: During the study, 200 accepted blood units were examined for HBsAg by ELISA technique and negative samples were tested for total anti-HBc antibodies using electroluminescence immunoassay (ECLIAS). HBV DNA amplification was performed for units that showed total anti-Hbc positivity. Results: Of the 200 blood units, 3 appeared positive by ELISA. Total anti-HBc antibodies were present in 34% (67/197) of blood units. HBV DNA was successfully amplified in 52.2% (35/67) of total anti-HBc positive samples. A significant association was observed between reactive total anti-HBc and age group (p Conclusion: OBI was recorded at a high rate in the blood of donors, which necessitates the implementation of detection methods to protect the recipients.

Study on PVL, blaOXA-23 and blaOXA-51 Genes in Drug Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Causing Surgical-Sites and Traumatic Wounds Infections, Sudan

Background: The characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus that made it the most important cause of wound infections are environmental spread antimicrobials resistance and virulence. Absence of molecular detection of drug resistance and virulence factors in many developing countries limits the epidemiological information. This study conducted to identify PVL virulence gene, and blaOXA-23 and blaOXA-51 drug resistance genes of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from surgical-sites infections (SSIs) and traumatic wounds. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 2019 to 2021, in which 70 cefepime resistant Staphylococcus aureus were used, the strains were isolated from patients of SSIs and traumatic wounds admitted to the department of General Surgery in Wad Medani Teaching Hospital. Mannitol salt agar was used for primary culture followed by biochemical identification and Kirby Bauer susceptibility testing. Single and multiplex PCR protocols performed for bacterial confirmation and target genes detection. Results: Staphylococcus aureus strains from SSIs constituted 56% (39/70) from which 41% (16/39) possessed PVL gene while 42% (13/31) of wound infections strains were positive for PVL gene. Presence of PVL gene was significantly associated with resistance to meropenem (P. value 0.023) and ceftriaxone (P. value 0.037). blaOXA-23 was significantly detected with resistance to meropenem, augmentin and ceftriaxone. While blaOXA-51 was significantly identified among Staphylococcus aureus strains that showed resistance to meropenem and ciprofloxacin. Conclusion: This is the first study in Sudan that identified blaOXA-23 and blaOXA-51 in Staphylococcus aureus and correlated them to resistance to commonly used antimicrobials. Meropenem resistant Staphylococcus aureus were significantly positive for PVL, blaOXA-23 and baOXA-51 genes.

A Study on Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Risk Factors in New and Re-Treated Presumptive Patients at Wad Madani Tuberculosis Center, Sudan (2018-2019): A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: The increase in cases of drug-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis, especially in endemic areas, is mainly associated with re-treatment, although resistant tubercle bacilli can be easily transmitted between all susceptible persons. Objective: The study aimed to describe pulmonary tuberculosis, risk factors and MDR in new and re-treated suspected patients attending Wad Madani Tuberculosis Center that provides service in central Sudan. Methods: Cross-sectional laboratory based study among 300 presumptive pulmonary tuberculosis patients during 2018 and 2019 was conducted. Cases were divided into new and re-treated. Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA and rpoB gene of multi-drug resistance (MDR) were detected in sputum samples by GeneXpert assay as manufacturer instructions. Results: Out of 300 suspected participants, 34% (103/300) were diagnosed as pulmonary tuberculosis using GeneXpert method. The frequency of males, the age group from 21 to 40 and rural housing were the most with percentage reach 68% (70/103), 51% (53/103) and 58.3% (60/103) respectively. All observed symptoms were significantly associated with pulmonary tuberculosis. New cases represented 59.2% (61/103) while re-treated was 40.8% (39/103). The overall frequency of MDR patients was 9.7% (10/103) of which 50% (5/103) had relapse situation. Conclusion: It appeared that the cases of MDR pulmonary tuberculosis are on the increase compared to previous findings, recommended measures must be taken to control the spread of tuberculosis and the causes of re-treatment and relapse must be studied.