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The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of aerobic walking exercise on stress urinary incontinence (SUI) among postmenopausal women. Thirty females diagnosed with SUI participated in the research. Participants were assigned randomly into two groups: The usual care group (UC) and the UC plus aerobic walking exercise (TMT) group. The UC group performed pelvic floor muscle (PFM) training only, while the TMT group performed PFM training in addition to aerobic exercise. Myomed biofeedback was used to assess the PFM strength both before and after a 12-week period. The Revised Urinary Incontinence Scale was utilized to assess changes in incontinence severity symptoms after intervention. Findings revealed a significant increase in PFM strength in both UC and TMT groups (p = .011 and p = .010, respectively) and a significant reduction in their Revised Urinary Incontinence Scale (p = .011 and p = .001, respectively) after the end of the 12 weeks of the training program. In addition, there was a more significant increase in PFM strength in the TMT group than in the UC group (p = .010) and a more significant decrease in Revised Urinary Incontinence Scale (p = .011) after 12 weeks of the training program. This study concluded that aerobic walking exercise with PFM training is more effective than PFM training only in increasing PFM strength and improving symptoms of SUI in postmenopausal women with SUI.

Purpose: This study investigated the use of digital technology in maxillofacial prosthetics among practitioners involved in maxillofacial prosthetic rehabilitation in Japan. Materials and Methods: A self-administered survey questionnaire with 24 closed-ended and multiple choice questions was used. A total of 300 questionnaires were distributed at the 32nd meeting of the Japanese Academy of Maxillofacial Prosthetics that was held in Tokyo, Japan in June 2015. The survey questionnaire was distributed in a pack that included an introduction letter explaining the research aims, objectives, and informed consent. The data obtained were analyzed by descriptive statistical methods and reported as frequency and range. Results: In total, 105 respondents (77 men (73.4%), 28 women (26.6%); median age, 40 years; age range 21-66 years) completed the questionnaire (response rate, 35%). The majority of respondents were dentists (75.2%), followed by dental technicians (21.9%). The median duration of work experience for the respondents in their specialty was 14 years, and 97% of respondents had interested and adopted digital technologies in maxillofacial prosthetics. Digital technologies were used significantly in patient and practice management, diagnostic, and patient’s defect visualization (p < 0.001) but insignificant in treatment planning (p = 0.917). In contrast, there were significant increases in non-use of digital technologies in prosthesis design, prosthesis manufacturing, and patient and prosthesis evaluation (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Japanese dental practitioners are interested and willing to use digital technology in maxillofacial prosthetics. Most respondents use some or a substantial number of digital technologies in clinical practice. (Int J Maxillofac Prosthetics 2021;4:25-36)

Aquaculture has been increasingly contributing to animal protein production during the last few decades. Tilapia is known as one of the highly valuable fish cultured in wide geographical areas in several countries as a source of animal protein including Egypt. Tilapia has the merit of tolerance to a wide range of environmental conditions and ability to utilize food from the lowest trophic levels. The intensification of aquaculture production is usually challenged by infections including bacterial and parasitic burdens, which obligates the use of chemicals and antibiotics to control disease outbreaks. The injudicious use of antibiotics inevitably led to expansion of resistance, mutant pathogenic strains and detrimental effects to fish and consumer health. Therefore, it is imperative to find alternative ecofriendly sources as prebiotics and probiotics which can improve fish health, performance, and immunity without any side effects to the fish themselves or the consumer health. Prebiotics are known as a group of non-digestible food ingredients which encourage the growth of advantageous microorganisms in the gastro-intestinal tract. Like probiotics and synbiotics, inclusion of prebiotics as feed supplements into diets of farmed fishes is usually accompanied by immunomodulation and increased resistance of fish against serious bacterial agents as Aeromonas hydrophila infection. The current review article focuses on the potential effects of probiotics and MOS-containing prebiotics on health status, immune response and survivability of farmed fishes specially referring to Nile tilapia.

Background.menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation due to loss of ovarian folicular function this hormonal change would have an effect on women`s lipid profile that leading to atherosclerosis. Aim.to investigate the effect of Pilates ex on lipid profile in postmenopausal women subjects&methods.30 postmenopausal obese women aged 45-55 y.They were randomly assigned into 2 equal groups: Group A consist of 15 postmenopausal obese women instructed to follow low caloric diet.Group B consist of 15 women instructed to follow low caloric diet and perform Pilates ex for 30 min/5 times per week for 12 weeks.evaluation was done by measuring lipid profile (CH,TG,LDL AND HDL), BMI and W/H ratio before and after 12 weeks for both groups results. there is good improvement (p˂0.05)in the lipid profile and significant difference between both groups post treatment in favor of group B conclusion. Pilates exercise combined with diet control had better effects on lipid profile in postmenopausal obese women.

Background: Physiotherapists in primary healthcare often encounter Post-cesarean health problems as, it affects abdominal muscles strength. But there are few studies on the contribution of decrease of abdominal muscle strength after cesarean section and very little guidance in the literature for health professionals on the management of abdominal muscle strength recovery after cesarean section. Objective: To assess the effect of Kinesio Taping on the recovery of abdominal muscle strength in postnatal women after cesarean section. Methods: Forty cesarean section women participated in this study after two months of delivery. They were divided into two equal groups; Group(A) performed abdominal exercises and group(B) received Kinesio Taping (KT) in addition to performing abdominal exercises as group (A). The intervention sessions in both groups were twice per week for 8 weeks. The outcome measures were evaluating pre and post treatment via assessing the inter recti distance and abdominal muscle thickness for the right and left rectus abdominal muscles and external oblique muscles by using ultrasonography. Results: The inter recti distance showed highly significant decrease (p < 0.0001) and highly significant increase (p < 0.0001) in rectus abdominis as well as external oblique muscles in both groups (A&B) post treatment. Comparison between both groups post treatment showed a highly significant difference (p < 0.0001) in favor of group(B) in muscle thickness and inter recti distance. Conclusion: Kinesio Taping (KT) helps in recovery of abdominal muscle after cesarean delivery.

Purpose To introduce an augmented reality (AR) application for students, patients, and practitioners to use to visualize a maxillectomy defect, the associated obturator prosthesis, and the eventual effects on the patient's facial appearance. Materials and methods Various 3D virtual models related to maxillectomy defects and their prosthetic rehabilitations were used to illustrate the handheld AR application. The AR "scene" was created using Vuforia and Unity3D software. Within this scene, 3D virtual models were linked to the target image by detecting a symbol track marker. The final file was saved as an installable application and exported for Android smart devices. Results The target image containing the maxillectomy defect and the prosthetic rehabilitation were successfully visualized interactively in 3D mode using the handheld AR maxillofacial prosthetic application. Conclusion An AR application for visualizing maxillofacial prosthetic data could interestingly be developed as a pedagogic tool to explain prosthetic treatments.

Background: Pelvic pain is the most frequently intrauterine device (IUD) associated complications. Aim of work: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of core muscles strengthening exercises on the pelvic pain caused by IUD. Methods: 30 women complained of pelvic pain after IUD insertion were participated in this study. They were divided into two groups, equal in number. Group (A) received core muscles strengthening exercises and supportive advice (as heating application, hot cinnamon drinks & diaphragmatic breathing) at the painful episodes. Group (B) received the same supportive advice as group (A) at the painful episodes. Both groups were assessed before and after treatment period (10 weeks) for pain degree by visual analogue scale (VAS) and menstrual pain severity by verbal multidimensional scoring scale (VMSS) to assess pain severity experienced through the activities of daily living. Results: The results of this study revealed that, there was a significant decrease in VAS and VMSS values post treatment in group (A) compared with that pre treatment values, while there was no significant difference between pre and post treatment values in VAS and VMSS in group (B). when comparing both groups there was a significant decrease in the post treatment values of VAS and in the median values of VMSS of group (A) compared with that of group (B). Conclusion: Core muscles strengthening exercises is considered as an effective modality in reducing pelvic pain caused by IUD.

Purpose: to investigate the effect of walking on physiological stress in premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Methods: Thirty females with PMS were randomly distributed into two equal groups. Group (A) (n=15) received breathing exercises, while group (B) (n=15) received the same breathing exercises in addition to walking on a treadmill. The primary outcomes were serum cortisol levels, resting heart rate (HR) and resting respiratory rate (RR) to measure the level of physiological stress, while the secondary outcomes were daily record of severity of problems (DRSP) and abdominal pain assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS). The outcome measures were evaluated pre-treatment and after 8 weeks of treatment. Results: Comparing both groups post-treatment revealed non-significant differences in serum cortisol levels, resting HR and DRSP (P>0.05), while there were significant reductions in both resting RR and abdominal pain VAS (P

An appropriate presentation of maxillofacial defects and their prosthetic rehabilitation concepts using traditional two-dimensional educational materials is challenging for dental students and prosthodontics residents. This technique article introduces a simple approach to visualize and communicate three-dimensional (3D) virtual models embedded into a portable document format (PDF) file for presenting maxillofacial prosthetics concepts and enhancing students' spatial ability when learning maxillofacial prosthetics. MeVisLab software was used to combine various maxillofacial models and save them as a single 3D model. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC software was used to import the 3D model and create interactive visualization PDF documents. Adobe reader software was then used to visualize the content of the PDF documents. This approach allows educators to develop PDF files with multiple 3D models for teaching maxillofacial prosthetics concepts and communicate them with their students. Students can simply open the PDF file, activate the 3D mode, and interactively manipulate the 3D models to enhance their spatial ability for learning maxillofacial prosthetics.

Dimethylhydrazine (DMH) is highly toxic for the different body organs, including the liver. The current study aimed to investigate the potential protective role of virgin coconut oil (VCO) and lauric acid (LA) in presence/absence of a chemotherapy drug “5-fluorouracil (5-FU)” against the hepatoxicity induced by DMH in male rats (Rattus norvegicus). Ninety rats were randomly divided into nine groups (n = 10). (G1) control group; (G2) rats received 4 mL VCO/kg body weight (b.wt) , orally/day after day for six weeks starting from week 13; (G3) rats received LA (200 mg/kg b.wt), orally/day after day for six weeks as in G2; (G4) rats were injected subcutaneously (s.c.) with DMH (20 mg/kg b.wt), once/week for the first six weeks; (G5) rats received DMH as in G4 and intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected with 5-FU (75 mg/kg b.wt), once/week starting from week 13 for three successive weeks; (G6) rats received DMH and VCO as in G4 and G2, respectively; (G7) rats received DMH and LA as in G4 and G3, respectively; (G8) rats received DMH, 5-FU, and VCO as in G4, G5, and G2, respectively; (G9) rats received DMH, 5-FU, and LA as in G4, G5, and G3, respectively. The results showed that DMH injection caused oxidative stress and histopathological alterations in the liver tissue, as well as dyslipidaemia. However, treatment of male rats with VCO or LA in presence/absence of 5-FU reduced significantly the DMH-induced hepatotoxicity.

Purpose To geometrically evaluate facial asymmetry in patients with mandibulectomy defects with and without their mandibular prostheses in place and to compare the results to a nonpatient group. Materials and methods Facial data from a convenience sample of 16 patients with mandibulectomy defects and a control group of 16 nonpatients were acquired using a noncontact 3D digitizer. Facial asymmetry was evaluated by superimposing a facial scan onto its mirror scan for each patient's 3D dataset using 3D evaluation software. Results Facial asymmetry was significantly different between mandibulectomy patients and control participants. As expected, asymmetry was significantly different in mandibulectomy patients with and without their prostheses. Conclusion Wearing a mandibular prosthesis notably improved facial asymmetry.

INTRODUCTION: Oral health related quality of life measure has a great importance at all levels of dental research, it helps to plan evidence based public health policies and indicates how resource allocation should be done. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess the Child-OIDPQ reliability and validity for application among Egyptian children aged 11-12-year-old, as well as determining the prevalence and causes of oral impacts on daily performances in public and private school children in Alexandria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional survey performed on 410 randomly selected student aged 11–12 years in the middle district of Alexandria city, Egypt. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire; Child-Oral Impacts on Daily Performances questionnaire (Child-OIDP). RESULTS: The instrument showed acceptable psychometric properties and is considered as a valid, reliable and practical inventory for use among the Egyptian sample. (Cronbach's alpha 0.71 for severity and 0. 70 for frequency). The prevalence of oral impacts was high (85.4 %) of children experiencing some kind of oral conditions affecting their daily life during the past three months. The highest impact was reported on eating (61.9%) followed by cleaning (46.3%) and the lowest impact was on speaking (21.0%). Tooth pain was one of the main perceived causes of impacts on the following 5 performances: duties (35.9%), emotional status (11.1%), sleeping (42.2%), eating (32.0%) and speaking (16.7%). there was no statistically significant difference detected by Mont Carlo exact probability test in the intensity effect of impact between public and private schools CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that the Child-OIDP questionnaire can be applied to Egyptian children as a valid measure of oral health related quality of life.

INTRODUCTION: Cerebral palsy is the term given for a range of non-progressive syndromes of posture and motor impairment that results from an insult to the developing central nervous system. OBJECTIVES: Assess the occlusal characteristics in children with cerebral palsy and relate them to the degree of their neuromuscular deficit. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 87 children with cerebral palsy and 84 healthy children from Alexandria, Egypt. Data were collected using a questionnaire and clinical examination. Questionnaire assessed socio-demographics and medical history. Clinical examination assessed facial profile, posterior occlusion, cuspid relationships, posterior crossbite and anterior incisor relationships. RESULTS: Class II cuspid relationship was statistically higher in cerebral palsy children than healthy control (P=0.02 for both sides). 29.9% of cerebral palsy children and 15.5% of healthy children had convex facial profile with significant difference (P=0.04). Cerebral palsy children were more likely to have open bite than healthy children (31.1% and 14.8% respectively) with a statically significant difference between both groups (P=0.02). The mean overjet (mm) was higher in cerebral palsy children than healthy children (2.87 and 2.23 mm respectively) with a statically significant difference (P=0.03) and the mean overbite (%) was also higher in cerebral palsy children than healthy children (40.65% and 25.47% respectively) with a significant difference(P=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Cerebral palsy children had a convex facial profile with class II cuspid relationship in comparison to the healthy children. Anteriorly, cerebral palsy children exhibited an increased open bite with a higher significant mean number of overbite and overjet than healthy children. The posterior occlusal relationships in children with cerebral palsy were similar to that in healthy children. The severity of the neuromuscular deficit is a risk factor for the development of malocclusion in cerebral palsy children.

INTRODUCTION: Dental caries is consistently reported as one of the primary medical needs of children with Cerebral palsy (CP). It has negative impact on the overall health of these children and increase burden on their parents OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the influence of socio-economic profile, previous dental visits, oral hygiene practices, and dietary habits on dental caries experience in children with CP in Alexandria, Egypt. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This case control study included 80 children with CP, who were 3 to 11 years old. Equal number of cases (children with CP who had caries lesions) and controls (caries free children with CP) were included. Data were collected using an interview based questionnaire and clinical examination. Questionnaire assessed socio-economic characteristics, medical history, previous dental visits, oral health behaviours and dietary habits. Clinical examination assessed caries experience and oral hygiene index (OHI-S). Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the factors associated with dental caries. RESULTS: The average age of children in the study was 6.75 years, 68.8% of them were males. Caries experience was expressed through dmft for the primary teeth and dft/DMFT for mixed dentition. The mean values were 6.72± 2.52, 5.64 ±2.98 and 1.32 ±1.73, respectively. Children with CP with caries lesions had statistically significant poorer oral hygiene (p

Background Sepsis is an inevitable stage of bacterial invasion characterized by the deregulated inflammatory response, resulting in multiorgan dysfunction syndrome. Acute liver injury is a common and serious complication in patients with severe sepsis. The most of conventional antibiotics in managing sepsis are effective, but they are accompanied by undesirable side effects. Therefore, the ongoing study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of echinochrome (Ech) pigment isolated from sea urchins on sepsis-induced liver damage using cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model. Materials and methods Male albino rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham group, CLP-induced sepsis, and septic rats treated with Ech. The estimation of liver function markers and oxidative status were analyzed. Results The results demonstrated that Ech administration significantly improved liver function, as indicated by the decreased liver enzyme activities such as alanine transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase, as well as the increase of albumin content. Moreover, Ech could counteract the hepatic oxidative stress induced by CLP via a marked increment in glutathione content and antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione-s-transferase), as well as downregulation of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and hydrogen peroxide formation. In addition, the Ech treatment repaired, to some extent, the abnormal architecture of hepatic tissues induced by polymicrobial infection. Conclusions In conclusion, Ech could be used as a potential alternative antiseptic remedy via oxidative damage attenuation.

Background Sentinel surveillance of influenza-like illness (ILI) in Egypt started in 2000 at 8 sentinel sites geographically distributed all over the country. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 was added to the panel of viral testing by polymerase chain reaction for the first 2 patients with ILI seen at one of the sentinel sites. We report the first SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A(H1N1) virus co-infection with mild symptoms detected through routine ILI surveillance in Egypt. Objective This report aims to describe how the case was identified and the demographic and clinical characteristics and outcomes of the patient. Methods The case was identified by Central Public Health Laboratory staff, who contacted the ILI sentinel surveillance officer at the Ministry of Health. The case patient was contacted through a telephone call. Detailed information about the patient’s clinical picture, course of disease, and outcome was obtained. The contacts of the patient were investigated for acute respiratory symptoms, disease confirmation, and outcomes. Results Among 510 specimens collected from patients with ILI symptoms from October 2019 to August 2020, 61 (12.0%) were COVID-19–positive and 29 (5.7%) tested positive for influenza, including 15 (51.7%) A(H1N1), 11 (38.0%) A(H3N2), and 3 (10.3%) influenza B specimens. A 21-year-old woman was confirmed to have SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A(H1N1) virus coinfection. She had a high fever of 40.2 °C and mild respiratory symptoms that resolved within 2 days with symptomatic treatment. All five of her family contacts had mild respiratory symptoms 2-3 days after exposure to the confirmed case, and their symptoms resolved without treatment or investigation. Conclusions This case highlights the possible occurrence of SARS-CoV-2/influenza A(H1N1) coinfection in younger and healthy people, who may resolve the infection rapidly. We emphasize the usefulness of the surveillance system for detection of viral causative agents of ILI and recommend broadening of the testing panel, especially if it can guide case management.

Purpose This study sought to geometrically evaluate the effect of a mandibular prosthesis on facial asymmetry in patients with one of two different types of mandibulectomy defect. Methods Facial data from 20 participants (9 men and 11 women; mean age 68 years) with either a reconstructed segmental defect (segmental group,n = 10) or a marginal mandibulectomy defect (marginal group, n =10) were acquired with a non-contact three-dimensional (3D) digitizer. Facial asymmetry was evaluated by superimposing a facial scan onto its mirror scan using 3D evaluation software. Facial scans with and without the mandibular prosthesis in place were also superimposed to evaluate the effect of the mandibular prosthesis. Results Facial asymmetry differed significantly between subjects with and without the prosthesis in the segmental group (P = 0.005) but not in the marginal group (P = 0.16). There was no significant difference in the effect of the prosthesis on facial appearance between the two groups (P = 0.052). The ratio of 3D deviation of facial asymmetry without the prosthesis and in the mirror scan with the prosthesis differed significantly between the two groups (P = 0.01). Conclusions Placement of a mandibular prosthesis has a notable effect on facial asymmetry in patients with segmental mandibulectomy defects.

Lower and Upper respiratory tract viral infections; LRTIs and URTIs are among the most common causing infections in humans, especially in children and infants. Objective: This study, provides the evidence of using modern techniques as the multiplex PCR method, as a helpful tool in identifying the circulating pattern of respiratory viruses, in Egypt, thus this could help in identifying and inventing new treatment and vaccines. Subjects and methods: A number of 237 nasopharyngeal aspirates, were collected between December 2013 to November 2014, from 2 Egyptian fever hospitals, classified into 3 groups; group 1; 37 normal persons, group 2; 100 patients with LRTIs or pneumatic group and group 3; 100 patients with URTIs or common cold group, then the results were assayed using multiplex RT-PCR, in the Central Public Health Laboratories, CPHL, Ministry of Health, Cairo, Egypt.Results: Respiratory viruses, were detected in 152 cases, where the human rhinovirus was the most prominent; 15.6%, followed by the respiratory syncytial virus, 10.5%, metapneumovirus; 13%, influenza-A (Flu-A); 6.3%, adenovirus (AdV); 5.9%, influenza-B (Flu-B); 5.4%, parainfluenza-3 (PIV-3); 4% and a percentage of 0.42% infection for parainfluenza-1 (PIV-1), parainfluenza-2 (PIV-2) and human bocavirus (HBoV). No infections with parainfluenza-4, enterovirus nor the coronaviruses were detected. Both season and age of the patients, affect the detection rate of the analysis.Key words: Respiratory viruses; multiplex RT-PCR; LRTIs; URTIs; Egypt.

Rodents are widely used for animal research in Egypt. Pentobarbital is the most common anesthetic agent; however overdoses may affect the experimental outcomes and limit the use of tissues. To investigate the effects of sodium pentobarbital overdoses during exsanguination, three groups (6 rats/group) of male and female rats were injected i.p. with 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg of sodium pentobarbital, then carotid exsanguination was performed immediately after loss of consciousness. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (Hif1a) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (Tnfa) mRNA expressions in liver and kidney organs were evaluated. As well as, serum aminotransferase activities (AST&ALT), glucose, urea, creatinine, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) levels were determined. The histological alterations in liver, kidney and spleen were studied. It was found that Hif1a and Tnfa were significantly overexpressed in the studied organs and serum AST, glucose, creatinine and urea levels were significantly increased after sodium pentobarbital overdoses (100 and 150 mg/kg) compared to 50 mg/kg dose. Similarly, significant increase in MDA and GSH levels of liver, kidney and spleen were noticed. Results showed gender difference where Hif1a and Tnfa levels were significantly overexpressed at high dose of sodium pentobarbital of liver and kidney organs in female more than male rats. Since euthanasia protocol may influence the physiological variables and affect genes’ expression, it is recommended to avoid sodium pentobarbital overdose during euthanasia as it may interfere with the biochemical, molecular and histological measurements.

PURPOSE To evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of noncontact three-dimensional (3D) digitization systems for capturing facial defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS A stone model of a facial defect was digitized using high-accuracy industrial computed tomography as a reference scan. The model was also scanned using four different types of noncontact 3D digitizers: a laser beam light-sectioning technology with camera system and three different stereophotogrammetry systems. All 3D images were reconstructed with corresponding software and saved as standard triangulated language (STL) files. The 3D datasets were geometrically evaluated and compared to the reference data using 3D evaluation software. Kruskal-Wallis H tests were performed to assess differences in absolute 3D deviations between scans, with statistical significance defined as P < .05. RESULTS The four noncontact 3D digitization systems were feasible for digitizing the facial defect model, although the median 3D deviation of the four digitizers varied. There was a significant difference in accuracy among the digitizers (P < .001). CONCLUSION Digitization of facial defect models using various noncontact 3D digitizers appears to be feasible and is most accurate with laser beam light-sectioning technology. Further investigations assessing digitization of facial defects among patients are required to clinically verify the results of this study.

Background Diabetes mellitus is the main reason of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In recent years great attention has been paid to bioactivity of natural products due to their potential pharmacological utilization. Echinochrome is a natural compound isolated from sea urchins and possesses many biological effects. The hypoglycemic activity of echinochrome reported in many recent experiments. Objective In our study, we tried to collect all the possible hypoglycemic mechanism of echinochrome. Conclusion The hypoglycemic effect of echinochrome involving four main pathways; regeneration of pancreas, decrease insulin resistant, increase insulin production and improve glucose homeostasis.

PURPOSE This study aimed (1) to geometrically evaluate areas of facial asymmetry in patients with two different types of maxillectomy defect compared to a control group, (2) to geometrically evaluate the effect of an obturator prosthesis on facial asymmetry, and (3) to investigate the correlation between three-dimensional (3D) deviation values and number of missing teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS Facial data from 13 normal control participants and 26 participants with two types of maxillectomy defect (groups 1 and 2) were acquired with a noncontact 3D digitizer. Facial asymmetry was evaluated by superimposing a facial scan onto its mirror scan using 3D evaluation software. Facial scans with and without obturator prostheses were also superimposed to evaluate the obturator effect. The correlation between 3D deviation values and number of missing teeth was also evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS Facial asymmetry was significantly different between the control group and each maxillectomy defect group (group 1: P < .0001 and P = .020 without and with obturator, respectively; group 2: P < .0001 for both conditions). There were no significant differences in asymmetry between groups 1 and 2 either without or with obturator (P = .457 and P = .980, respectively). There was a significant difference in the obturator effect between groups 1 and 2 (P = .038). 3D deviation values were positively correlated with number of missing teeth in group 1 (r = 0.594, P = .032), but not in group 2. CONCLUSION A noncontact 3D digitizer and 3D deviation assessment were effective for analyzing facial data of maxillectomy patients. Obturators were effective for improving facial deformities in these patients.

Purpose To identify trends in the application of various types of digital technologies in maxillofacial prosthetics by identifying these digital technologies and their characteristics and reviewing the prevalence of applied digital technologies and their recent trends in the maxillofacial prosthetics literature. Materials and methods Five leading peer-reviewed prosthodontics journals were manually searched for maxillofacial prosthetics articles on the use of digital technologies published from January 2008 to December 2017. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data collected on productivity, type of digital technology used, type of article, type of defect, number of authors, and geographic distribution. Results Of the 336 maxillofacial prosthetics articles screened, 87 (26%) were selected for analysis. A remarkable increase was found in article productivity in the last 5 years (63%) compared to the first 5 years (37%). There was also a notable increase over the last 10 years in all digital technologies used except for evaluation technologies, which remained almost constant. Case reports most frequently mentioned use of digitization technologies (61%), design technologies (66%), and rapid prototyping technologies (66%). Original research articles most frequently mentioned use of evaluation technologies (89%); 39% of these technologies were used for intraoral defects and 27% for extraoral defects. Most often, articles had four to five authors (54%). Most published articles were from the Asia-Pacific region (44%), followed by North America (22%) and Europe (20%). Conclusion Although the application of digital technologies reported in the maxillofacial prosthetics literature has increased notably in leading prosthodontics journals over the last 10 years, total article productivity has remained relatively small.

Purpose To evaluate the accuracy of a smartphone application as a low-cost approach for digitizing a facial defect for 3D modeling. Materials and methods A stone model of a facial defect was scanned using industrial computed tomography (reference scan) and was also scanned five times using a commercial laser scanner. A series of 24 sequenced digital photographs was taken five times by smartphone at two elevations. These images were uploaded and processed by a cloud-based server to create virtual 3D models. The 3D datasets were geometrically evaluated and compared to the reference data using 3D evaluation software. Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis, and the significance was set at P Results The overall mean 3D deviation ± standard deviation for the smartphone dataset was 604.9 ± 123.5 μm compared to 67.5 ± 0.49 μm for the laser scanner. There was a significant difference in the accuracy between the commercial laser scanner and the smartphone application (P = .009). Conclusion The results showed that within the limits of this study and in reference to standard computed tomography imaging, data acquisition with a smartphone for 3D modeling is not as accurate as commercially available laser scanning.

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) has high metastatic and mortality potential and lacks effective and selective therapeutic options. Aberrant dysregulation of the receptor tyrosine kinase c-Met promotes TNBC progression, motility and survival and therefore considered a valid therapeutic target. Among various identified anticancer agents, plant polyphenols (PPs) including flavonoids, have been shown to be safe and proven for their antitumor activity through modulating diverse macromolecular targets. This study reports the bioassay-guided identification of the common flavonol glycoside rutin as breast cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion inhibitor. The cell free Z’-LYTE kinase assay, Western blot and in silico docking experiments uncovered, for the first time, c-Met kinase as a potential mechanistic target for rutin-mediated anticancer effects on TNBC cell lines. Likewise, the intraperitoneal injection of rutin at 30 mg/kg, 3X/week, significantly reduced the growth of the TNBC MDA-MB-231/GFP orthotopic xenograft in nude mouse model. These results clearly designate the functional dietary flavonoid rutin as a potential lead for the prevention and control of c-Met-dependent breast malignancies.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the quality of three commercial herbal tea products present in the Egyptian market; commercial herbal Calm (1), commercial herbal Intestinal (2) and commercial herbal Anti diarrhea (3) in comparison with three prepared standard mixtures. Methods: Quality control of the three commercial herbal products and prepared standard mixtures was conducted through microscopical identification of their diagnostic elements, determination of pharmacopeial constants, and detection of contaminations. Analysis of essential oil content and estimation of the main active constituents were performed using GC/MS and HPLC respectively. Antimicrobial activity, toxicological study, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were carried out on 80% methanolic extract of the three commercial herbal teas in comparison with corresponding standard mixtures. Results: Quality control of the three commercial herbal products revealed that some of the herbs are exhausted; some of the products are adulterated with other species rather than those of the formula; however, the three commercial herbal products are safe, free from aflatoxin, pesticides and heavy metals. They are active as antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Conclusion: The assessed commercial herbal products that are used in the Egyptian market for some gastro-intestinal tract disorders have proven their effectiveness as antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant drugs, which can be subjected for further clinical trials.

PURPOSE To evaluate the precision and trueness of computerized optical impressions of maxillectomy defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Three different maxillectomy defect models based on the Aramany classification system were used. Reference digitization of the models was performed with an industrial computerized tomography scanner. Each model was scanned five times using an intraoral scanner (True Definition). With the use of 3D evaluation software, the 3D datasets were geometrically superimposed using a best-fit algorithm to evaluate precision and trueness. Statistical analysis was performed to determine differences between the scans. RESULTS There was a statistically significant difference in both precision and trueness between Aramany classes (P < .001). CONCLUSION Digitizing maxillectomy defect models with an intraoral scanner appears to be accurate and reliable.

Pathogens 10(2), 185 (2021). doi:10.3390/pathogens10020185, Published by MDPI, Basel

Background. The main complication of diabetes mellitus is diabetic nephropathy in both types, which is a main reason for renal failure. Echinochrome substance present in sea urchin shells and spines and possesses high antioxidant activity.Aim. is to evaluate the ability of Ech to suppress the progression of diabetic complication in kidney.Materials and methods. Thirty-six male Wistar albino rats were divided into two main groups, type 1 diabetes mellitus and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Both groups divided into control, diabetic and echinochrome subgroups. Type 1 diabetes was induced by single dose of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg, i.p), while type 2 was induced by high fat diet for 4 weeks before the injection with streptozotocin (30 mg/kg, i.p). The treated groups were administrated by echinochrome (1mg/kg body weight in 10% DMSO) daily for 4 weeks.Results. Echinochrome groups showed reduction in the concentrations of glucose, malondialdehyde, urea, uric acid and creatinine. While it caused general increase in glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reduced, nitric oxide and creatinine clearance. The histopathological investigation showed clear improvement in the kidney architecture.Conclusion. Administration of echinochrome improves renal function and ameliorates renal histopathological changes possibly by improvement of glucose metabolism and inhibition of lipid peroxidation process.

Objective The present investigation explored the therapeutic potential effect of Sepia officinalis body tissue (SOBT) and Sepia officinalis polysaccharide (SOP) extracts, in animal model of sepsis [induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)]. Materials and methods Experimental animals were divided into 4 groups, Group 1: Sham control rats. Group 2: Septic rats. Group 3: Septic rats treated with methanolic extract of Sepia officinalis body tissue (SOBT) (500 mg/kg body weight) for 2 days. Group 4: Septic rats treated with Sepia officinalis polysaccharide (SOP) extract (200 mg/kg body weight) for 2 days. Results The antioxidant activity of SOBT and SOP was proven by DPPH test. CLP-induced liver and kidney toxicities showed by an increase in the ALAT, ASAT, γGT, ALP, creatinine, BUN and uric acid concentrations in serum. Moreover, CLP-induced oxidative stress in liver and kidney evidenced by the increase of MDA levels, decrease in GSH concentrations and decrease in the enzymatic antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GST). In addition, CLP caused decrease in CYP1A2 content in liver. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate the therapeutic efficacy of SOBT and SOP in liver and kidney disorders. Therefore this study suggests that SOBT and SOP could be a potential therapeutic agents for sepsis treatment.

This report describes the postmaxillectomy prosthetic rehabilitation of a child with maxillary chondrosarcoma over an 8-year period. Specifically, it (1) describes the planning and rehabilitation procedures carried out during the period from before the operation to the time when the patient started elementary school and (2) reports the results of evaluations of the patient's oral and psychosocial function conducted during the school phase. The prosthetic treatment plan was separated into two phases (the preschool and school phases) and was started prior to surgery, when an immediate surgical obturator was designed by the surgeons. After the operation, it was considered important to provide the patient and her mother with training regarding how the defect should be cleaned, trismus prevention, and how the prosthesis should be fitted. In addition, esthetic improvements and the ability to speak clearly were also targeted during treatment planning. After surgery, obturators were fabricated in a conventional manner and fitted at the ages of 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 years. The patient's oral function during the use of the obturators was evaluated objectively. Marked improvements in oral function were seen during both treatment phases. The patient's ability to perform psychosocial functions at school also improved during the use of the obturators.

Aim: Study the topographic features of dentin after caries removal with a chemomechanical agent (Papacarie) compared with the conventional drilling method. Study design: The sample included 7 exfoliated and extracted primary teeth with carious dentin lesions, not reaching the pulp. Each tooth was sectioned longitudinally through the center of the carious lesions into two halves. The teeth were then divided into two groups according to the method of caries removal. Following caries removal, dentin topography and the cut section were examined using the scanning electron microscope. Results: Papacarie produced an irregular, porous, rough and globular dentin appearance. The dentin surfaces were generally free of smear layer, visible bacteria and the dentinal tubules were opened. The dentin cut surfaces showed patent dentinal tubules with open orifices. The drilling method created a smooth and amorphous surface with a continuous smear layer occluding the dentinal tubules. Numerous bacteria were also observed. The cut dentin surfaces showed patent dentinal tubules with their orifices plugged with smear layer. Conclusions: Papacarie produced a rough and porous surface with partial or complete removal of the smear layer and opened dentinal tubules, while the drill produced a smooth surface with uniform smear layer occluding the dentinal tubules.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to geometrically evaluate the effect of prosthetic rehabilitation on the facial appearance of mandibulectomy patients. Materials and Methods: Facial scans (with and without prostheses) were performed for 16 mandibulectomy patients using a noncontact three-dimensional (3D) digitizer, and 3D images were reconstructed with the corresponding software. The 3D datasets were geometrically evaluated and compared using 3D evaluation software. Results: The mean difference in absolute 3D deviations for full face scans was 382.2 μm. Conclusion: This method may be useful in evaluating the effect of conventional prostheses on the facial appearance of individuals with mandibulectomy defects.

Background Drug-induced hepatotoxicity is an extremely widespread condition and is responsible for a variety of pathological effects on the liver. It was reported that hepatotoxicity induced by angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) is cholestasis mediated hepatitis. Bradykinin-potentiating factor (BPF) is one of the natural ACEIs. Although prolonged treatment with ACEIs provides protection against liver injury, the effect of short-term treatment with ACEIs has not been fully elucidated before. Thereby, the present study sought to determine if transient ACE inhibition may exacerbate the hepatotoxicity caused by bile duct ligation (BDL) in rats. Methods Twenty one Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups: Sham-operated group, bile duct ligated (BDL) rats, and BDL rats treated for short-term with BPF (1 μg/kg body weight) day after day for one week and biochemical parameters were measured. Also, we assessed expression level of ACE1 and detection of hepatotoxicity in the liver tissues of different groups. Results There was a significant increase in liver enzymes, bilirubin levels, and oxidative stress in the BDL group after treatment with BPF as compared to BDL group. We found overexpression of ACE1 gene in BDL group compared to BPF and Sham-operated control group. Histopathological examination of liver treated with BPF showed severe degeneration hepatic architecture and hepatocytes as compared to BDL group. Collagen deposition increased after BPF treatment as compared to BDL groups. Conclusion The present investigation suggests and recommends that short- term ACE inhibition pathway potentiates liver fibrosis during cholestasis disease.

Introduction: Exposure to positive clinical learning experience influences the nursing students' knowledge, skills, attitudes, and interest in continuing the nursing profession. It is widely acknowledged that clinical placement evaluations while students are on placement is very useful for better understanding of what constitutes quality clinical education from the students’ perspective to provide better educational experiences. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the nursing students’ satisfaction with their clinical placement experiences and the degree to which their experiences are regarded as positive. Methodology: A descriptive design was used for the purpose of the study at college of Nursing in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia. Students enrolled in clinical courses during 2010-2012 were included. Clinical placement evaluation form was used for data collection and students were asked to respond to three open ended questions asking them for the advantages and the disadvantages of each clinical placement and their suggestions for improvement. Results: The majority of the students (75.6%) agreed or strongly agreed with statements rating their satisfaction with the clinical placement. However, students were dissatisfied with short clinical exposures, staff nurses role and evaluation process from the clinical instructors.

The polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS is conventionally defined as a combination of hyperandrogenism and anovulation with polycystic ovaries. In many countries, it represents the leading cause of female infertility. The specific pathophysiology of this syndrome has not yet been established; however it is associated with the presence of insulin resistance, obesity, diabetes mellitus type 2, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, hyperplasia and endometrial carcinoma. The studied group consisted of 50 patients with PCOS who were subdivided according to BMI into 2 subgroups (1st with MBI

Although digital technology has advanced the visualization of treatment planning and rehabilitation in prosthodontics, the field of maxillofacial prosthetics is in vital need of an accessible document for exchange of interactive three-dimensional (3D) model visualization without requiring installation of any additional software. This article introduces a 3D data documentation method for effective interactive digital visualization in maxillofacial prosthetics using a portable documentation format (PDF).

Reading is important for students by contributing significantly to success in their studies and their career development. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted in the English Department of the College of Basic Education, Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET), in Kuwait. Based on 410 responses of EFL college students in Kuwait on their reading practices, it was found that students read mainly for entertainment, and reading does not appear to be a popular activity among students. Fiction, fashion, and best sellers were the three main types of reading, indicating that academic reading was not a priority. Only a small proportion of students used e-books. Most students perceived such features of e-books as their portability and ability to store more information as likely to attract more students to e-reading, and indicated that they would be attracted to reading e-books themselves if circumstances change. This indicates a good potential to promote e-reading among students if steps are taken to make e-books and e-readers available to them through libraries and academic institutions. E-reading is also expected to become more popular among students if it could be linked to academic reading, particularly to the availability of text books in e-format. Libraries in Kuwait should start more proactive program to promote e-books and e-reading among college and university students.

The analysis undertaken in this paper applies a multimarket model to simulate two policy measures based on the assumption that the government of Sudan would pursue two policies on the Gezira scheme the biggest irrigated scheme in Africa in attempts to achieve food self-sufficiency from wheat (major food crop), or to improve the foreign exchange earnings from cotton (major cash crop) through expanding their portions of cultivated land. The paper investigates the implications of each scenario on crops output, food self-sufficiency indicators and tenants’ welfare. Findings show that, the food security scenario raises self-sufficiency from wheat by 40% and reduces it for sorghum by 4%. However, it reduces the welfare level as the earnings from exports and revenues from tariffs decline. The foreign earning scenario on the other hand, improves the overall foreign earnings and enhances farmers’ welfare. Nonetheless, the study suggests that none of the two policies would achieve both objectives alone, hence it is recommended that, both policies are to be considered in a policy package that considers as well other related components.

This case report describes the reproduction of the current obturator of a frail elderly patient using the digitization concept. A computed tomography scanner was used to scan the obturator. The virtual model was created using three-dimensional modeling software. The model was printed using a plastic with a low melting point with a fused deposition modeling technique in a three-dimensional printer and then conventionally processed. The definitive obturator was inserted and evaluated for fit, function, and esthetics and was successfully delivered at the second visit. The patient was satisfied with the oral function and esthetics of the reproduced obturator. This case report confirms the effectiveness of digitization in the reproduction of an obturator that enabled satisfactory oral function and esthetics.

Background Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical problem raising the urgent needs to develop new strategies for treatment. The present study investigated the therapeutic potential of human umbilical cord – mesenchymal stem cells (HUC-MSCs) transplantation against renal ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) in rats. Methods Twenty four male Wistar rats were assigned into two main groups, sham group (control group) and I/R group. I/R group was injected in the tail vein with either phosphate buffer saline (PBS) or HUC-MSCs. Results The HUC-MSCs improved kidney injury induced by I/R as demonstrated by enhancement of the kidney function via decreasing serum levels of creatinine, urea and uric acid. The therapeutic efficacy of HUC-MSCs were found to be mediated through anti-oxidant activity as indicated by significant reduction in total malondialdehyde (MDA) and significant increment in the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST). Conclusion The present work suggests that HUC-MSCs may be an effective therapeutic agent against renal IRI. The recorded data showed improvement of renal functions and urine albumin in HUC-MSCs than IRI group with positive antioxidant efficacy of HUC-MSCs through scavenging free radicals and supporting the antioxidant enzymes.

Research demonstrate that vitamin D deficiency is significantly associated with bone diseases (e.g., osteoporosis), muscle cramps, back pain, heart diseases, diabetes mellitus, etc. The lack of knowledge and poor practice of study subjects regarding vitamin D deficiency became evident in this study. Vitamin D is vital for the growth and development of the body throughout the life span. The aim of this study is to investigate the knowledge and the practices related to vitamin D deficiency among the adult population in Sharjah, UAE. A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged 20–40 years in Sharjah, UAE. Participants were selected from public places using convenience sampling method. They were subjected to a self-administered questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS 20 software. All knowledge-related questions were summed up, where a correct answer was given 1 point and incorrect one a 0, yielding a score out of 43. Subjects’ scores were then transformed to a percentage. A total of 503 adults were included in the study. They had a mean age of 30 years (±5.47) with a relatively homogenous gender distribution (51 % females). The mean knowledge score on vitamin D deficiency was 16.7 out of 43 (39 %). Less than half of the respondents (43 %) knew that sunlight is the main source of vitamin D. The mean score for participants’ practice was 2.34 out of 6 (39 %); 77 % of them reported that they tried to avoid sun exposure, and 97 % had not tested vitamin D levels in their blood before. The majority of the adults demonstrated significant lack of knowledge and poor practices towards vitamin D and its deficiency. Therefore, attempts to increase the awareness about this issue are required through establishing educational campaigns targeting the general public in Sharjah, UAE.

Background: Sepsis remains a major problem for both scientists and clinicians. Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) is considered the gold standard for animal models of sepsis. The undesirable side effects of certain antibiotics have forced scientists to discover new, natural, and safe antimicrobial agents, such as cephalopods, which are known to display significant antimicrobial activity. Objectives: The present investigation aims to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo antibacterial and antiseptic efficacy of Sepia officinalis body tissue (SOBT) extract and S. officinalis polysaccharide (SOP) from its cuttlebone. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight rats were divided into 4 groups, and starting 2 hours after CLP, treatments were given for 2 days as follows: sham control rats treated orally with distilled water, septic rats treated orally distilled water, septic rats treated orally methanolic extract of SOBT (500 mg/kg b.wt) suspended in distilled water, and septic rats treated orally SOP extract (200 mg /kg b.wt) dissolved in distilled water. On the third day, half of the rats in each group were euthanized for blood collection. The other half were kept alive and used for the survival study. Results: The present study revealed that the SOBT and SOP extracts showed in vitro bactericidal activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Furthermore, administration of SOBT and SOP increased the rats’ survival rates by 66.7% and 83.33%, respectively, as compared to the untreated CLP-septic rats. Treatment of the CLP-septic rats with SOBT and SOP significantly alleviated alterations in procalcitonin levels and in some hematological parameters induced by CLP. Conclusions: SOBT and SOP had profound antiseptic efficacy.

Background: Occult Hepatitis B is the existence of HBV-DNA in the serum of HBsAg negative cases with or without the presence of antibodies to HBV. Although (HBV)transmission viahepatitisB surface antigen (HBsAg) negative blood donors has beenreported, still HBsAg is the only obligatory HBV screening test of blood donors in Fayoum. Aim: Expanding the donor screening procedure to include anti-HBc to reduce the risk of transfusion transmitted HBV infection. Methods: A total of 400 HBsAg negative blood donors were included in the study from blood bank, Fayoum University Hospital, Egypt. All donors were tested for anti-HBc, and HBsAg-negative, anti-HBc-positive sera were further tested quantitatively for antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs). ‘Anti-HBc alone’ sera were examined quantitatively for HBV by real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Moreover, liver function tests and some oxidative stress parameters were determined in the sera of Anti HBc –ve group and Anti HBc +ve groups. Results: Among 400 HBsAg -negative donors, 69 (17.2%) were anti-HBc -positive, of which 12 donors (17%) were HBsAb negative, 20 donors (29%) were HBsAb low positive and 37 donors (54%) were HBsAb high positive. The 12 ‘anti-HBc alone’ donors displayed 2 cases (16.6%=0.5% of total) with HBV positive DNA. On comparison of the mean liver function profiles of Anti HBc ‒ve group and Anti HBc +ve group, no statistically significant difference was observed. Conclusion: These data suggest including anti-HBc as an additional screening test for blood donors in Fayoum.