149 results on '"Aly SM"'
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2. Efficiency of using green algae as biological controllers against toxic algal taxa in cultured Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus, based on histopathological examinations
- Author
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Aly, SM, Ali, EM, Dessouki, AA, and Dawah, AA
- Abstract
The incidence of harmful cyanobacterial blooms in surface waters has increased in frequency and outbreaks have become more severe. This research aimed at studying the effect of a culture of two green algal species as biological control of the growth of toxic blue-green algae. Nile tilapia of an initial mean weight of 55 g fish−1 (SE 5) were used for each of four treatments in triplicate. All algal seedings were done at 4 × 103 cells ml−1. Treatment I (untreated) served as a control, Treatment II was seeded with Microcystis aeruginosa, Treatment III was seeded with green algae Chlorella ellipsoidea and Scenedesmus bijuga, and Treatment IV was seeded with a mixture of M. aeruginosa and C. ellipsoidea and S. bijuga. After 10 days, Treatment IV showed 3.4% viable cell survival, compared to 35% and 55% in Treatments II and III, respectively. Histopathological examination revealed mild degenerative changes and focal necrosis, as well as a depletion of haematopoietic tissues in Treatment IV compared to Treatment II. These findings suggest the efficacy of C. ellipsoidea and S. bijuga in controlling the growth of M. aeruginosa and minimising its side effects on cultured Nile tilapia.Keywords: blue-green algae, fish culture, histopathology, microcystin, toxicityAfrican Journal of Aquatic Science 2014, 39(4): 443–450
- Published
- 2015
3. Letter to the editor: Molecular identification of forensically relevant Diptera inferred from short mitochondrial genetic marker
- Author
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Aly, SM and Wen, J
- Abstract
No Abstract.
- Published
- 2013
4. Efficiency of using green algae as biological controllers against toxic algal taxa in cultured Nile tilapiaOreochromis niloticus, based on histopathological examinations
- Author
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Aly, SM, primary, Ali, EM, additional, Dessouki, AA, additional, and Dawah, AA, additional
- Published
- 2014
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5. Efficiency of using green algae as biological controllers against toxic algal taxa in cultured Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus , based on histopathological examinations.
- Author
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Aly, SM, Ali, EM, Dessouki, AA, and Dawah, AA
- Subjects
- *
GREEN algae , *NILE tilapia , *PHYSIOLOGICAL control systems , *FISH farming , *HISTOPATHOLOGY , *HEMATOPOIETIC agents - Abstract
The incidence of harmful cyanobacterial blooms in surface waters has increased in frequency and outbreaks have become more severe. This research aimed at studying the effect of a culture of two green algal species as biological control of the growth of toxic blue-green algae. Nile tilapia of an initial mean weight of 55 g fish−1(SE 5) were used for each of four treatments in triplicate. All algal seedings were done at 4 × 103cells ml−1. Treatment I (untreated) served as a control, Treatment II was seeded withMicrocystis aeruginosa, Treatment III was seeded with green algaeChlorella ellipsoideaandScenedesmus bijuga, and Treatment IV was seeded with a mixture ofM. aeruginosaandC. ellipsoideaandS. bijuga. After 10 days, Treatment IV showed 3.4% viable cell survival, compared to 35% and 55% in Treatments II and III, respectively. Histopathological examination revealed mild degenerative changes and focal necrosis, as well as a depletion of haematopoietic tissues in Treatment IV compared to Treatment II. These findings suggest the efficacy ofC. ellipsoideaandS. bijugain controlling the growth ofM. aeruginosaand minimising its side effects on cultured Nile tilapia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2014
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6. Study of growth in prepubertal asthmatics.
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Ismail NF, Aly SM, Abdu MO, Kafash DN, Kelnar CJ, Ismail, N F, Aly, S M, Abdu, M O, Kafash, D N, and Kelnar, C J H
- Abstract
Objective: The aim of this pilot study was to assess whether long standing asthma affects growth in prepubertal Egyptian children before initiation of long-term corticosteroid therapy.Methods: Children with asthma were divided into two groups according to asthma severity, moderate (n=24) and severe (n=14) and were compared for their physical and skeletal growth with a control group (n=15) using standard deviation score (SDS) and one-way ANOVA (analysis of variance) test.Results: No statistically significant differences were found between various growth parameters (weight, height, BMI, upper segment lower segment ratio, and skin fold thickness in asthmatic and normal children, although a positive correlation was found between the age at which the asthma presented and the height in all asthmatic children, r= 0.288, p= 0.036. The bone age standard deviation scores (SDS) were 0.97 mean, -0.165 and -0.572 for controls, moderate and severe asthmatics respectively (P< 0.05), and significant inter group difference between the 2 asthmatic groups (moderate and severe) and the controls was found.Conclusion: The authors conclude that there was no significant major effect of asthma per se on growth parameters in children, but that skeletal maturation was influenced by long standing asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2006
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7. Correction: Fostering green transformational leadership: the influence of green educational intervention on nurse managers' green behavior and creativity.
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Moustafa Saleh MS, Elsabahy HE, Abdel-Sattar SA, Abd-Elhamid ZN, Thobaity AA, Mohammed Aly SM, and Shokry WM
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- 2024
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8. Fostering green transformational leadership: the influence of green educational intervention on nurse managers' green behavior and creativity.
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Moustafa Saleh MS, Elsabahy HE, Abdel-Sattar SA, Abd-Elhamid ZN, Al Thobaity A, Mohammed Aly SM, and Shokry WM
- Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to investigate the influence of green transformational leadership educational intervention on nurse managers' green behavior and creativity., Background: Organizational creativity is greatly influenced by leaders and their personality attributes. Additionally, innovative employee behavior is crucial for organizational performance and survival, which in turn promotes long-term organizational growth., Method: A quasi-experimental design was conducted by using pre-test, post-test, and follow-up for a group that included 116 nurse managers who completed the intervention. Data were collected through the green transformational leadership knowledge questionnaire, green transformational leadership scale, green behavior questionnaire, and green creativity scale., Results: Following the implementation of the Green Transformational Leadership educational intervention, there was an improvement in responses connected to the nurse manager's use of green behavior and creativity. Three months after the intervention ended, the improvement was still present., Conclusion: Nurse managers who had good knowledge about green transformational leadership showed increased green behavior and green creativity, which enhanced the organization's success. This study showed the significance of developing and improving the skills of managerial creativity for the nurse supervisor of a hospital through training in transformational leadership., Implications for Nursing Management: The concept of "green transformational leadership" refers to leadership behaviors and strategies aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and responsibility within an organization or a specific context. In the case we mentioned, it involves implementing educational interventions targeted at nurse managers to enhance their understanding and adoption of green practices, as well as fostering green behavior and creativity among them., (© 2024. The Author(s).)
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- 2024
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9. Nanoscale potassium sensing based on valinomycin-anchored fluorescent gold nanoclusters.
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Ali R, Almousa R, Aly SM, and Saleh SM
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- Spectrometry, Fluorescence methods, Limit of Detection, Animals, Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions, Cattle, Gold chemistry, Valinomycin chemistry, Potassium analysis, Potassium chemistry, Metal Nanoparticles chemistry, Serum Albumin, Bovine chemistry, Fluorescent Dyes chemistry
- Abstract
Gold nanoclusters are a smart platform for sensing potassium ions (K
+ ). They have been synthesized using bovine serum albumin (BSA) and valinomycin (Val) to protect and cap the nanoclusters. The nanoclusters (Val-AuNCs) produced have a red emission at 616 nm under excitation with 470 nm. In the presence of K+ , the valinomycin polar groups switch to the molecule's interior by complexing with K+ , forming a bracelet structure, and being surrounded by the hydrophobic exterior conformation. This structure allows a proposed fluorometric method for detecting K+ by switching between the Val-AuNCs' hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity, which induces the aggregation of gold nanoclusters. As a result, significant quenching is seen in fluorescence after adding K+ . The quenching in fluorescence in the presence of K+ is attributed to the aggregation mechanism. This sensing technique provides a highly precise and selective sensing method for K+ in the range 0.78 to 8 µM with LOD equal to 233 nM. The selectivity of Val-AuNCs toward K+ ions was investigated compared to other ions. Furthermore, the Val-AuNCs have novel possibilities as favorable sensor candidates for various imaging applications. Our detection technique was validated by determining K+ ions in postmortem vitreous humor samples, which yielded promising results., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Austria, part of Springer Nature.)- Published
- 2024
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10. From injury to rehabilitation: How kinesiology taping helps patients with first metatarsophalangeal joint sprain (turf toe) in pain reduction, gait parameters and functional ability improvement. A randomized clinical trial.
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Azab AR, Elnaggar RK, Aly SM, Basalem N, Alamri AM, Saleh AK, Ibrahim MN, Basha MA, and Abdelbasset WK
- Abstract
Objective: Turf toe is a common sports injury that may affect mobility and functional ability. For complete recovery, rehabilitation modalities are required to overcome these issues. This study investigated whether kinesio taping (KT) would reduce pain, improve gait performance, and enhance the functional capacity of turf toe patients undergoing physical therapy., Methods: sixty patients with grade II turf toe (age; 25-30 years) assigned randomly into three treatment groups; KT applied alongside an exercise program conducted three times/week for 12 successive weeks. (KT group; n = 20), placebo taping plus exercise (Placebo group; n = 20), or exercise only (Control group; n = 20). Pain, gait parameters, and functional ability assessed using VAS, 3D gait analysis, and 6MWT respectively pre- and post-treatment., Results: There was a significant post-treatment decrease in VAS score in the KT group lower than the control or placebo group and a significant increase in 6MWT distance in the KT group higher than the control or placebo group (p < 0.001). Additionally, there was a significant post-treatment increase in step length, stride length, cadence and velocity of KT group higher than control and placebo group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in gait parameters between control and placebo groups post treatment (p > 0.05)., Conclusions: The findings of the study demonstrated that KT is a useful complementary modality to exercise in patients with turf toe, as it may result in more favorable improvements to pain, gait characteristics, and functional abilities. Further studies should be conducted to assess the long-term effects, different KT application methods, and tailored treatment protocols on turf toe., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)
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- 2024
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11. Effect of CYP2D6, 2C19, and 3A4 Phenoconversion in Drug-Related Deaths.
- Author
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Aly SM, Hennart B, Gaulier JM, and Allorge D
- Abstract
Molecular autopsy is a very important tool in forensic toxicology. However, many determinants, such as co-medication and physiological parameters, should be considered for optimal results. These determinants could cause phenoconversion (PC), a discrepancy between the real metabolic profile after phenoconversion and the phenotype determined by the genotype. This study's objective was to assess the PC of drug-metabolizing enzymes, namely CYP2D6, 2C19, and 3A4, in 45 post-mortem cases where medications that are substrates, inducers, or inhibitors of these enzymes were detected. It also intended to evaluate how PC affected the drug's metabolic ratio (MR) in four cases. Blood samples from 45 cases of drug-related deaths were analyzed to detect and determine drug and metabolite concentrations. Moreover, all the samples underwent genotyping utilizing the HaloPlex Target Enrichment System for CYP2D6 , 2C19 , and 3A4 . The results of the present study revealed a statistically significant rate of PC for the three investigated enzymes, with a higher frequency of poor metabolizers after PC. A compatibility was seen between the results of the genomic evaluation after PC and the observed MRs of venlafaxine, citalopram, and fentanyl. This leads us to focus on the determinants causing PC that may be mainly induced by drug interactions. This complex phenomenon can have a significant impact on the analysis, interpretation of genotypes, and accurate conclusions in forensic toxicology. Nevertheless, more research with more cases in the future is needed to confirm these results.
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- 2024
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12. Effect of touch screen tablet use on fine motor functions in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy: A randomized controlled trial.
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Abd-Elfattah HM, Galal DOSM, Abdelmageed SM, Aly SM, Ameen FH, Sayed AO, and Abd-Elmonem AM
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- Humans, Child, Male, Female, Child, Preschool, Treatment Outcome, Exercise Therapy methods, Upper Extremity physiopathology, Cerebral Palsy physiopathology, Cerebral Palsy rehabilitation, Paresis rehabilitation, Paresis physiopathology, Paresis etiology, Computers, Handheld, Motor Skills physiology
- Abstract
Background: Cerebral palsy is the most frequent condition affecting the central nervous system and causing large disability., Objective: To determine the impact of touch screen tablet upon fine motor functions in children with hemiparesis., Method: This was a randomized controlled trial involving 60 children, ranging in age from 5 to 7 years old, randomized into two groups: intervention or control group (30 children per group). Both groups were given 12 consecutive weeks of designed fine motor tasks. Additionally, for thirty minutes, the intervention group was given a fine motor exercise program on a touch screen tablet. Upper limb function, finger dexterity and pinch strength were measured pre and post the recommended treatment program using the quality of upper extremity skill test (QUEST), Nine-Hole Peg Test and Jamar hydraulic pinch gauge, respectively., Results: All outcome measures were equivalent between intervention groups at admission (P > 0.05). Significant improvements were found in all assessed variables within the two groups. Meanwhile, the intervention group had significantly higher improvements (P < 0.05) in finger dexterity, pinch strength, and upper limb function when compared with the control groups., Conclusion: Including a touch screen smart tablet application with a specially designed fine motor program is an effective method that helps children with U-CP perform more effectively with their fine motor skills.
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- 2024
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13. Adenovirus type D and type E infection in broiler chickens: the effect on CD4 and CD8 T cell response, cytokines expression and their immunopathology.
- Author
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Abdel-Alim GA, Aly SM, Khattab MS, Badawy AM, Naguib MG, Abdelhamid TM, Hussein HA, and Morsy EA
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- Animals, Chickens, Cytokines genetics, Interleukin-6, Interleukin-8, Adenoviridae genetics, CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes pathology, Adenoviridae Infections veterinary, Poultry Diseases, Aviadenovirus genetics
- Abstract
1. A total of 150-day-old chicks were divided into three groups of 50 birds (G1-G3); G1 and G2 were orally inoculated at 1-day old with 0.5 ml of 10
7 TCID50/ml FAdV-D serotype 2 (MT386509.1) and FAdV-E serotype 8a (MW847902), respectively, and G3 was blank control group.2. Cell-mediated immune response was evaluated by detection of CD4, CD8 T lymphocytes and the mRNA expression of IL6 and IL8 in the chicken spleen using q-PCR. Additionally, immunopathology was performed at 3, 5 and 7 day post infection (dpi) and weekly until the end of the experiment.3. Results revealed that transcription of inflammatory cytokines (IL6, IL8) was up regulated in the spleen of FAdV type D and type E infected chickens at various time points relative to the control group. A marked decrease in the number of CD4 and CD8 T lymphocytes at 5 and 7 dpi in G1 of chickens infected with FAdV type D. Whereas, in chickens infected with FAdV type E, the CD4 and CD8 T lymphocytes were markedly decreased at 7 dpi.4. In contrast, there were no significant differences in humoral immune responses against NDV vaccine in (G1 and G2) at different intervals post-vaccination compared to the control group. The histopathology of the bursa, thymus, and spleen in the infected groups showed lymphocytolysis with severe reticular cells hyperplasia and lymphoid depletion.5. In conclusion, fowl adenovirus types D and E have an immunosuppressive effect in broilers which may be considered one of the main causes of the continuous co-infections with other viruses reported in the field during the last 10 years.- Published
- 2023
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14. Comprehensive analysis of Vibrio alginolyticus: Environmental risk factors in the cultured Gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) under seasonal fluctuations and water parameter alterations.
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Aly SM, Elatta MA, ElBanna NI, El-Shiekh MA, Mabrok M, Kelany MS, and Fathi M
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- Animals, Vibrio alginolyticus, Seasons, Ammonia, Risk Factors, Sea Bream, Fish Diseases epidemiology, Vibrio Infections epidemiology, Vibrio Infections veterinary
- Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between seasonal variations, water parameters and the prevalence of Vibriosis in Gilthead seabream. A total of 160 Gilthead seabream fish were sampled over the course of 1 year from private earthen pond farms in the Suez Canal area and examined for abnormalities and internal lesions. Vibrio alginolyticus, the causative agent of Vibriosis, was isolated and characterized from the sampled Gilthead seabream fish. The study revealed a significant correlation between different seasons and the prevalence of V. alginolyticus, with lower occurrence during autumn. Analysis of water parameters showed that toxic ammonia concentration was not effective in distinguishing between positive and negative cases of V. alginolyticus. Dissolved oxygen showed weak predictive ability for the occurrence of V. alginolyticus, while temperature demonstrated moderate potential as a predictor of its prevalence. pH values, organic matter concentrations and salinity showed no significant association with the occurrence of V. alginolyticus. Experimental challenges highlighted the vulnerability of Gilthead seabream to V. alginolyticus and emphasized the impact of environmental factors, such as pH and toxic ammonia, on their mortality and survival. The study emphasizes the importance of considering seasonal changes and water quality parameters in managing V. alginolyticus in mariculture. It underscores the need for careful monitoring and control of environmental factors to ensure the health and well-being of cultured fish populations. The findings contribute to our understanding of Vibriosis management and provide valuable insights for developing effective strategies in the aquaculture industry., (© 2023 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)
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- 2023
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15. Physical Activity among Colorectal Cancer Patients and Survivors in Egypt.
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Aly SM, Genena D, Bateman LB, Shikany JM, Fouad MN, Arafat WO, Abdelmoniam SE, Bae S, Scarinci IC, Hussien M, Alaa M, Hansen B, Hegazy Y, and Rogers LQ
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- Humans, Female, Adult, Male, Egypt epidemiology, Motor Activity, Surveys and Questionnaires, Survivors, Exercise, Colorectal Neoplasms epidemiology, Colorectal Neoplasms prevention & control
- Abstract
Introduction: Understanding physical activity (PA) levels is important when developing tertiary cancer prevention interventions, especially in Egypt where colorectal cancer (CRC) is more often diagnosed at later stages and at a younger age of onset (≤40 years)., Methods: We assessed PA levels among CRC patients and survivors in Alexandria, Egypt. All participants completed two self-reported PA assessments: Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) and Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ). Participants could opt to wear an accelerometer for seven days. Results were compared against WHO recommendations of ≥150 minutes or ≥600 metabolic equivalents of tasks (METs) of moderate-to-vigorous PA weekly., Results: Of 86 participants enrolled, all completed the surveys and 29 agreed to accelerometer use. Prevalence of meeting PA recommendations was 62.8% based on the GPAQ, 14.0% based on GLTEQ, and 41% based on accelerometer. Based on the GPAQ, very few respondents reported vigorous occupational, vigorous recreational, or moderate recreational activity (median = 0 with interquartile range [IQR] of 0 - 0 weekly minutes for all three) while most activity resulted from moderate occupational and transportation (median [IQR] of 60 [0-840] and 60 [0-187.5] weekly minutes, respectively). Participants meeting PA recommendations were less likely to be married (p = 0.043) according to GPAQ and more likely to be female (p=0.047) and early cancer stage (p=0.007) by GLTEQ., Conclusion: Non-leisure free-living PA is a major contributor to meeting PA recommendations while leisure-time PA is a potential target for future interventions that increase PA in this population.
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- 2023
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16. Metabolic ratios and SNPs implicated in tramadol-related deaths.
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Aly SM, Hakim F, Richeval C, Hennart B, Gaulier JM, and Allorge D
- Abstract
Tramadol (TR) metabolism is performed by polymorphic enzymes that are influenced by genetic polymorphisms. Within this scope, the study presented here aimed to describe 41 genetic variants within CYP2D6, CYP2B6, and CYP3A4 genes in 48 cases of TR-related death that may be involved in the response to TR and to assess whether there is a correlation between these genetic variants and metabolic ratios (MRs). Blood samples from 48 victims of a TR-related death were analyzed to determine the concentrations of TR and its metabolites [O-desmethyltramadol (M1) & N-desmethyltramadol (M2)] using a LC-MS/MS method. All the samples were also genotyped for 41 common CYP2D6, CYP2B6, and CYP3A4 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using the HaloPlex Target Enrichment system. Cases with the T/- genotype (rs35742686 in CYP2D6) had significantly higher M2/M1 ratio than cases with T/T genotype and cases with the G/A genotype (rs35599367 in CYP3A4) had significantly higher MR2 (TR/M2) ratio than cases with G/G genotype. The frequency of tested SNPs which belong to CYP2D6, CYP2B6, and CYP3A4 revealed the over-presentation of 2 SNPs (rs1058172 in CYP2D6 and rs4803419 in CYP2B6) in TR overdose group, which could have toxicological implications. These results indicate these polymorphisms in CYP2D6, CYP2B6, and CYP3A4 might influence the function and could increase the risk of toxicity. However, these findings should be supported in future studies with larger groups of cases., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)
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- 2023
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17. Lead, Mercury, and Cadmium Concentrations in Blood Products Transfused to Neonates: Elimination Not Just Mitigation.
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Aly SM, Elfiky S, Mohamed YG, Soliman RAM, Shalaby N, Beauval N, Gaulier JM, Allorge D, and Omran A
- Abstract
Lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) are identified as potent developmental neurotoxicants. Neonates are the main group receiving multiple blood transfusions. The exposure of neonates to these heavy metals (HMs) can occur through blood transfusions. This study aimed to determine the concentrations of lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) in various blood products (plasma, platelets, packed red blood cells (pRBCs), and whole blood (WB)) to explore the probability of concurrent exposure of these HMs and to identify the metal load per transfusion with risk assessment. Residual bloods from blood bank bags were collected after neonatal transfusion. Pb, Hg, and Cd concentrations were determined in 120 samples of blood products by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Pb and Cd levels were over the normal levels in 19.2 and 5.9% of all blood units, respectively. In 35 and 0.8% of blood units, the Pb and Cd concentrations, respectively, were higher than that recommended for transfusions in premature neonates. The anticipated safe value was surpassed by 2.5% for Cd of all transfusions, primarily because of WB. However, Hg was detected only in 5.8% of all samples and their concentrations were within the normal range. The concurrent neonatal exposure to Pb, Hg, and Cd was statistically significant. Hazard quotients of Hg and Cr were >1 and Pb cancer risk was 2.41 × 10
-4 . To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first report examining Pb, Hg, and Cd in blood products other than WB and pRBCs using ICP-MS. This study demonstrated the exposure of neonates to Pb, Hg, and Cd during transfusion with a considerable amount of Pb. It confirms the significant concurrent exposure to the three HMs, which maximize their potential developmental neurotoxicity with a high probability of developing non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health effects.- Published
- 2023
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18. In the case of extensively putrefied bodies, the analysis of entomological samples may support and complement the toxicological results obtained with other alternative matrices.
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Aly SM, Gish A, Hakim F, Guelmi D, Mesli V, Hédouin V, Allorge D, and Gaulier JM
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- Female, Animals, Humans, Chromatography, Liquid, Pharmaceutical Preparations, Postmortem Changes, Morphine, Forensic Toxicology methods, Tandem Mass Spectrometry, Diptera
- Abstract
Entomotoxicological analysis is not part of routine toxicological analysis. This work aims to present two cases to illustrate the potential of entomological samples as complementary matrices to identify substances in cases of advanced putrefaction. (Case#1) A woman wasexhumed after 14 months to ascertain the exact cause of death. She died after six weeks of hospitalization because of intestinal ischemia followed by multiorgan failure. (Case#2) The corpse of a woman, known to have a psychiatric disorder, was discovered in her apartment. The state of decomposition of the body was consistent with a post-mortem period of several weeks (approximately 6 weeks). Toxicological investigations were performed in the biological and entomological samples of case#1 (hair, adipocere, brain, and pupae) and of case#2 (hair, bone, flies, and pupae) using liquid chromatography with high-resolution mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry detection methods. In case#1, several drugs and metabolites were detected. In particular, the pupae analyses allowed the objectification of morphine administration, whereas morphine was only found in adipocere, but not in hair nor in brain. In case#2, the pupae analyses allowed the detection of three metabolites of quetiapine, and the flies analyses allowed the detection of valpromide, which was only detected in hair. In conclusion, the pupae and flies analyses in these two cases complemented the results obtained in the other alternative biological samples, which may guide hypotheses about the possible causes of death. Nevertheless, additional data and case reports would be of benefit to assess the value of entomotoxicology in routine forensic investigations., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)
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- 2023
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19. Sexual Harassment: Knowledge, Prevalence, Pattern, and Impacts Among Egyptian Female College Students.
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Ibrahim SF, Mostafa EMA, Aly SM, and Hagras AM
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- Male, Humans, Female, Young Adult, Adult, Egypt epidemiology, Prevalence, Cross-Sectional Studies, Students, Surveys and Questionnaires, Sexual Harassment
- Abstract
Sexual harassment (SH) is an uprising problem worldwide, especially in Egypt. This study aims to determine the magnitude, patterns, and circumstances of SH among female students at Suez Canal University. A cross-sectional study was conducted on a representative female student sample ( N = 644 ) from all the faculties using a self-administered anonymous questionnaire. The high prevalence of SH among college students in this study could be a consequence of the absence of knowledge about the legal framework. It mostly happened at all times of the day and night in the streets, and the least amount happened on the campus. Most of the harassers were younger than 20 years old and strangers. The majority of harassed females and surrounding people displayed negative reactions. None of the harassed females notified the authorities. The majority blamed men, and half claimed the SH act was due to the absence of religious principles. Moreover, the ignorance of the majority is with Egyptian law against SH. Both psychological and social impacts are significantly experienced by the harassed females. Thus, it is urgent to establish an institutional program (e.g., psycho-educative sessions during classes and peer training) or national awareness campaigns. Such programs and trainings aim to increase the awareness of students about the SH legal framework and how to deal with such acts, either as a victim or a witness, and how to provide the needed psychological assistance., (© Copyright 2023 Springer Publishing Company, LLC.)
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- 2023
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20. Chitosan nanoparticles and green synthesized silver nanoparticles as novel alternatives to antibiotics for preventing A. hydrophila subsp. hydrophila infection in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus .
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Aly SM, Eissa AE, Abdel-Razek N, and El-Ramlawy AO
- Abstract
Recently, nanoparticles have attracted attention as a preventive tool for certain infectious diseases affecting fish in aquaculture. Furthermore, freshwater fishes are frequently vulnerable to summer mass morality caused by Aeromonas bacteria. In this regard, we focused on the evaluation of the in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial activity of chitosan (CNPs) and silver (AgNPs) nanoparticles against Aeromonas hydrophila subsp. hydrophila . CNPs and AgNPs were prepared at a mean particle size of 9.03 and 12.8 nm and a charge equalled+36.4 and -19.3 mV for CNPs and AgNPs, respectively. A. hydrophila subsp. hydrophila, Aeromonas caviae, and Aeromonas punctata were retrieved and identified by traditional and molecular techniques. The sensitivity of the obtained bacteria to eight different antibiotic discs was also tested. The antibiotic sensitivity studies revealed the presence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Aeromonas species (spp.). The bacterium that showed the highest multidrug resistance against the tested antibiotic discs was Aeromonas hydrophila subsp. hydrophila . Therefore, CNPs and AgNPs were in vitro tested against the isolated bacterium and exhibited inhibition zones of 15 and 25 mm, respectively. TEM images also showed that CNPs and AgNPs had an antagonistic action against the same bacterium causing loss of architecture and bacterial death., Competing Interests: No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors., (© 2023 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.)
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- 2023
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21. The antibacterial activity and immunomodulatory effect of naturally synthesized chitosan and silver nanoparticles against Pseudomonas fluorescence infection in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): An in vivo study.
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Aly SM, Eissa AE, Abdel-Razek N, and El-Ramlawy AO
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- Animals, Silver, Fluorescence, Diet veterinary, Anti-Bacterial Agents pharmacology, Pseudomonas, Animal Feed analysis, Dietary Supplements analysis, Chitosan, Cichlids, Metal Nanoparticles, Fish Diseases
- Abstract
A sixty-day feeding trial was conducted to assess the effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) on the growth and immunity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), compared with the control group. CNPs and AgNPs were green synthesized and added to a control diet (30% crude protein) at levels of 2.0 g CNPs/kg diet and 1.0 mg AgNPs/kg diet. One hundred and eighty fish (101 ± 3.98 g) were randomly distributed into nine fiberglass tanks (200 cm × 200 cm x 100 cm, twenty fish each) to represent three equal groups (60 fish per group). After one and two months of the feeding trial, parameters of water quality, growth indices, hematology, and liver and kidney biomarkers were evaluated. At the end of the experiment, 10 fish from each group were challenged experimentally via the intraperitoneal injection with Pseudomonas fluorescence and fish mortality was observed for further ten days. Then, specimens from the liver, kidney, spleen, and anterior intestine were examined to assess the histopathological alterations. Incorporating a 2.0 g CNPs/kg diet was a promising growth enhancer; however, a 1.0 mg AgNPs/kg diet had no effects on tilapia performance. Furthermore, AgNPs appeared to reduce water pollution, leading to water filtration via decreasing both total dissolved solids (TDS) and electrical conductivity (EC). A significant role of AgNPs in improving tilapia
' s erythrogram (RBCs number and Hb concentration) was evident. Compared with the control group, both groups of CNPs and AgNPs improved non-specific immune parameters and showed defense effects against P. fluorescence. The fish mortality after P. fluorescence infection in CNPs and AgNPs-fed fish groups revealed significant decreases (P < 0.05) of 10% and 25%; respectively, while the control group exhibited a mortality rate of 40%. The current investigation evoked that using dietary CNPs (2.0 g/kg feed) as an antibacterial agent against P. fluorescence infection in Nile tilapia culture was better than dietary AgNPs (1.0 mg/kg diet) which, induced cells inflammation causing tissues necrosis., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)- Published
- 2023
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22. Substance Use among Adolescents: A Retrospective Study (2017-2018) in the Toxicology Unit, University Hospital of Lille, France.
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Aly SM, Omran A, Gaulier JM, and Allorge D
- Abstract
Research on adolescent substance use is of utmost importance. Using local toxicological data, both prevalence and pattern of substance use (SU) and substance-related death (SRD) can be assessed to design effective prevention programs. A retrospective study of toxicology investigations of all adolescents referred to the medico-legal section of the Toxicology Unit of the University Hospital of Lille, France, for a 2-year period from 2017 to 2018. In the total sample of 1961 cases, adolescents accounted for 3.3% of the cases (n = 65). Among the adolescents, 16.9% were aged 10−14 years and 83.1% were aged >14−19 years. About 69.2% were males. Less than 70% of all presented adolescents used substances. More than two-thirds (74%) of positive detections were male. Illicit substances (43%) were the most detected substance followed by alcohol (20%) and prescription substances (20%). Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was extremely common as it was found in 29% of all adolescents. Cocaine and amphetamines were detected in 13.8% of total tested adolescents. Polysubstance use was common between alcohol and THC and among males. About one-third of deaths were due to substance use. About 54% of SRD was associated with polysubstance detection. It is recommended that illicit substances, ethanol, and prescription substances are targeted for testing among adolescents in order to provide appropriate prevention.
- Published
- 2022
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23. Impact of COVID-19 on ECT Practice in Qatar.
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Wadoo O, Aly SM, Latoo J, Alshawwaf MKM, Kamat S, and Alabdulla M
- Subjects
- Humans, Pandemics, Qatar epidemiology, Electroconvulsive Therapy, COVID-19, Mental Disorders therapy
- Abstract
There is paucity of Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) utilization surveys from the Arabian Gulf region and none available from Qatar. There is no literature available on impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on ECT provision. ECT is a lifesaving treatment in psychiatric practice requiring anesthetic support and there were concerns that redeployment of anesthetists due to COVID-19 pandemic might have comparatively bigger impact on the provision of ECT. These concerns stem from the fact that psychiatric patients often get discriminated against in health care systems; largely due to stigma and the belief among healthcare providers that psychiatric illness is somehow not as serious as other types of medical or surgical illness. In this brief report we present pre-COVID ECT utilization from Qatar. We also report findings on ECT utilization during COVID-19 and compare changes with other elective and non-elective surgeries. ECT provision was down by 40% during March to August 2020 in our setting. The decline in ECT provision was comparable to other elective and non-elective surgeries.
- Published
- 2022
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24. Tramadol-Related Deaths: Genetic Analysis in Relation to Metabolic Ratios.
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Aly SM, Tartar O, Sabaouni N, Hennart B, Gaulier JM, and Allorge D
- Subjects
- Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6 genetics, Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6 metabolism, Genotype, Phenotype, Polymorphism, Genetic, Tramadol
- Abstract
Tramadol (TR) metabolism is mainly dependent on the enzymatic activity of CYP2D6, which is controlled by genetic polymorphisms. Individuals are classified as poor (PMs), intermediate (IMs), extensive (EMs) or ultrarapid metabolizers (UMs) according to their genotype or phenotype. The determination of the metabolic phenotype for CYP2D6 can be of utmost importance in forensic and clinical contexts that involve TR intake. The present study aimed to describe CYP2D6 genetic variants in cases of TR-related deaths and to assess which metabolic ratio(s) (MRs) would allow to determine CYP2D6 phenotype without having to perform genetic analyses. Forty-eight postmortem blood samples were selected from TR-related death cases previously analyzed in a forensic context in North of France between 2013 and 2019. Initial available data included blood concentrations of TR and its two main metabolites (M1 & M2) determined using an LC--MS-MS method. TR metabolism was expressed as various MRs comprising TR/M1, TR/M2 and M2/M1. After DNA extraction, sequencing was used for genetic variant detections that affect CYP2D6 activity/expression. In the present study, the allelic variants with the higher frequency were CYP2D6*1 (68%), followed by *4 (21%). The most frequent phenotype is EMs (59.6%), followed by IMs (23.4%), PMs (12.8%) and UMs (6.4%). There was no significant correlation between each calculated MR and the genotypically predicted phenotypes, except for M2/M1 which appears related to the PM phenotype. The observed distribution of CYP2D6 genetic variants in this TR-related death population was similar to that found in the general Caucasian population. The present study displayed that the blood M2/M1 ratio could be the best-correlated TR MR to the PM phenotype, and could thus be used in forensic contexts where genetic analyses are not possible or poorly informative. For the other phenotypes, especially the UM phenotype, genetic analysis appears to be the only reliable method to predict the CYP2D6 phenotype., (© The Author(s) 2021. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)
- Published
- 2022
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25. Loaded Functional Strength Training versus Traditional Physical Therapy on Hip and Knee Extensors Strength and Function Walking Capacity in Children with Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy: Randomized Comparative Study.
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Abd-Elfattah HM, Ameen FH, Elkalla RA, Aly SM, and Abd-Elrahman NAF
- Abstract
Objective: This study’s objective was to see how loaded functional strengthening exercises using a plantigrade foot position and a shoe supporter affected muscle strength and walking ability in spastic hemiplegic children. Methods: Seventy-two children with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy, both sexes, aged ten to twelve years, were randomly assigned into two groups equal in number (control and intervention groups). The control group received a specially designed physical therapy program, whereas the intervention group received a loaded functional strengthening exercises program using a shoe supporter to maintain a plantigrade foot position. The training program was carried out for 60 min, three times per week for three consecutive months. All participants were evaluated both before and after the therapy program by using a Medical Commander Echo Manual Muscle Tester dynamometer to assess isometric muscle power of hip and knee extensors on the affected side. To assess functional walking capacity, a 6 min walking (6MWT) test was used. Results: Study groups were comparable with respect to all outcome measures at entry (p > 0.05). Within-group comparison showed significant improvements in all measured variables. Furthermore, between-group comparison revealed significantly greater improvements (p < 0.05) in hip and knee extensors strength as well as the functional walking capacity in favor of the intervention group. Conclusions: In all the analyzed variables, loaded functional strength exercises from the plantigrade foot position were found to be considerably more effective in the intervention group than in the control group.
- Published
- 2022
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26. Comparative Studies on The Efficiency of Neem Leaves Azadirachta indica and Flubendazole Treatment Against Diplectanum in Sea Bass Dicentrarchus labrax.
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Aly SM, Abou El-Gheit SN, and Essam El-Din HM
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- Animals, Mebendazole analogs & derivatives, Plant Leaves, Azadirachta, Bass parasitology, Trematoda
- Abstract
Purpose: Diplectanum is a life-threatening metazoan infecting the gills of Sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax causing a wide-ranging extensive economic loss in the aquaculture sector. This study has focused on verifying the most effective non-toxic dose of the Neem (Azadirachta indica) and (flubendazole) bath treatment on infested D. labrax fingerlings., Methods: In the first phase of the experiment, a total of 180 apparently healthy fingerlings were subdivided into six groups for each treatment. The tested concentrations were 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 mg L
-1 for A. indica and 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 mg L-1 for flubendazole. The second phase was conducted for one week in five groups for each treatment. The first group was untreated healthy. The remaining groups were infested and received different concentrations of 0, 50, 100, and 150 mg L-1 & 0, 10, 20, and 30 mg L-1 for A. indica and flubendazole, respectively., Results: The most toxic dose exhibited high mortality rates at 200 & 250 and 40 & 50 mg L-1 for A. indica and flubendazole, respectively. In the second phase of the experiment, the most effective dose was 150 and 30 mg L-1 ; for A. indica and flubendazole, respectively. They demonstrated the lowest mortality rates 20.00 & 20.00 %, prevalence rates 43.33 & 23.33%, and mean parasitic intensities were 2.35 & 2.00 accompanied by the highest therapeutic efficacy value 67.85 & 74.6% for both treatments; respectively., Conclusion: The most effective anthelmintic efficacy has been assigned for flubendazole and A. indica at 30 and 150 mg L-1 ., (© 2022. The Author(s).)- Published
- 2022
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27. Psychiatric inpatients' views of their mental health, and their experience of social change, during the pandemic: A report from Qatar.
- Author
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Badanapurkar A, Nelson D, Alabdulla M, Reagu S, Woodruff P, Varghese S, Aly SM, and Haddad PM
- Subjects
- Cross-Sectional Studies, Humans, Inpatients, Mental Health, Qatar epidemiology, Social Change, COVID-19, Pandemics
- Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: There is only limited information on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected people diagnosed with mental health disorders, especially people admitted to psychiatric wards. We surveyed the views of inpatients at Qatar's only psychiatric hospital regarding how the pandemic had affected their mental health and social changes they had experienced during the pandemic. WHAT THE PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Nearly half (43%) of those who completed the survey reported that the pandemic had led to a deterioration in their mental health. Those who reported deterioration in their mental health during the pandemic were significantly more likely to have experienced negative social changes during the pandemic. Examples included increased stress from the home and reduced ability to discuss emotions/feelings with family members. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: Mental health services need to ensure ongoing support for patients during and after the pandemic. Mental health nurses have a pivotal role including identifying early warning signs of relapse of mental disorders, delivering talking treatments and providing practical advice and COVID-19-related education. Further work is needed to assess the views of people diagnosed with mental health problems in different countries and at a different time point during the pandemic. ABSTRACT: Introduction The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people under the care of mental health services has received relatively little attention in the scientific literature. Aim To assess psychiatric inpatients' views regarding their mental health and experience of social change during the pandemic. Method Cross-sectional survey of consecutive patients admitted to Qatar's only psychiatric hospital between mid-June and mid-October 2020. Results Data were analysed for 114/284 (40%) patients admitted during the study period. 8 (7%) reported a history of COVID-19. 43% reported that the pandemic had led to deterioration in their mental health, 11% to an improvement and 39% that there had been no attributable change. Those reporting worsened mental health, attributable to the pandemic, were significantly more likely to report having experienced four negative social changes during the pandemic, namely reduced ability to discuss emotions/feelings with family members, decreased time spent exercising, decreased time spent relaxing and increased stress from the home. Demographic factors did not distinguish those reporting worsened mental health from those whose mental health was improved or unchanged. Discussion A large proportion of psychiatric inpatients reported negative social and mental health changes during the pandemic. However, the study cannot determine causality. Implications for practice Mental health services should consider the psychological and social aspects of people's lives, including their interactions with family, friends and the community. This is especially relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its wide impact on society. Interventions for people diagnosed with mental health disorders should address their psychological and social needs., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)
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- 2022
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28. Correction: Effect of Pilates Exercises on Standing, Walking, and Balance in Children With Diplegic Cerebral Palsy.
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Abd-Elfattah HM, Galal DOSM, Aly MIE, Aly SM, and Elnegamy TE
- Published
- 2022
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29. Effect of Pilates Exercises on Standing, Walking, and Balance in Children With Diplegic Cerebral Palsy.
- Author
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Abd-Elfattah HM, Galal DOSM, Aly MIE, Aly SM, and Elnegamy TE
- Abstract
Objective: To analyze how Pilates exercises affect standing, walking, and balance in children with diplegic cerebral palsy throughout a 10-week program., Methods: We included 40 children aged 7-9 years with diplegic cerebral palsy, and randomly allocated them into two groups of the same size: conventional therapy group (group A) and conventional therapy+Pilates group (group B). We administered the same conventional physical therapy program to both groups for 45 minutes, with group B receiving additional Pilates exercises for 45 minutes. Both groups attended the intervention program three times/week for 10 weeks. We used the Growth Motor Function Measure Scale (GMFM-88) to evaluate standing and walking (Dimensions D and E), and the Pediatric Balance Scale to evaluate balance function before and after treatment., Results: Comparison of the average values of all measured variables before and after therapy showed a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) between the two groups. All measured variables showed a significant difference between groups A and B, in favor of group B (p<0.05)., Conclusion: Pilates exercise in addition to conventional therapy is more effective in improving balance and gross motor function in children with diplegic cerebral palsy than the conventional therapy alone.
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- 2022
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30. Impact of Kinect-based virtual reality training on physical fitness and quality of life in severely burned children: A monocentric randomized controlled trial.
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Basha MA, Aboelnour NH, Aly SM, and Kamel FAH
- Subjects
- Adolescent, Child, Exercise Therapy, Humans, Muscle Strength, Physical Fitness, Quality of Life, Burns, Virtual Reality
- Abstract
Pediatric burns lead to persistent and detrimental muscle breakdown, weakness and poor quality of life, so rehabilitation is integral for improving physical and psychological outcomes. However, children with burns are a major challenge to a rehabilitation team. To overcome these challenges, enjoyable and interesting interventions are suggested., Objective: we aimed to determine the impact of the Xbox Kinect on cardiopulmonary fitness, muscle strength, lean mass, quality of life and enjoyment in severely burned children after hospital discharge., Methods: this was a randomized controlled trial in a single centre. Participants (n=40 children) with burn injuries were randomized to the Xbox training group (n=20) or control group (n=20) during 12 weeks. All children received a home programme rehabilitation and Xbox training children received Xbox training. Outcomes included cardiopulmonary fitness (VO
2 peak), muscle strength (peak torque), lean mass (whole-body and regional), quality of life and physical activity enjoyment at baseline, immediately after hospital discharge, and 12 weeks after the intervention., Results: the mean (SD) age of the 40 children was 12.97 (1.42) years and total body surface area of burn was 51% (5). The groups did not differ in characteristics at baseline (P>0.05). After 12 weeks of the intervention, the groups significantly differed in VO2 peak, peak torque, quality of life (P<0.001), lean mass and leg lean mass (P<0.05) in favour of Xbox training. The mean difference in VO2 peak, peak torque, lean mass and leg lean mass was 3.25 (2.1; 4.5) ml/kg/min, 7.5 (5.8; 9.2) Nm, 1.81 (0.5; 3.1) kg, and 1.1 (0.1; 2.1) kg, respectively. Lean trunk mass did not significantly differ between groups (P=0.07). The Xbox training group reported significantly more enjoyment than did the control group (P<0.001)., Conclusion: Xbox Kinect training can increase cardiopulmonary fitness, muscle strength, lean mass and quality of life in burned children. It is one of the most enjoyable, motivated and efficient treatment modalities that should be widely introduced into the pediatric burn rehabilitation., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04350034)., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)- Published
- 2022
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31. Relation of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) seasonal reproductive activity to hematology, serum biochemistry, histopathology, and Brdt gene expression.
- Author
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Aly SM, Sharaf SM, Hassanin AAI, and Griesh AS
- Subjects
- Alanine Transaminase blood, Animals, Aspartate Aminotransferases blood, Erythrocyte Indices, Female, Fish Proteins genetics, Gene Expression, Hormones blood, Male, Nuclear Proteins genetics, Ovary anatomy & histology, Ovary metabolism, Testis anatomy & histology, Testis metabolism, Reproduction genetics, Sea Bream anatomy & histology, Sea Bream blood, Sea Bream genetics, Sea Bream physiology, Seasons
- Abstract
This study aimed to find the relation of Sparus aurata (gilthead seabream) reproductive activities to some blood parameters as complete blood count, liver enzymes, some hormones related to reproduction process and microscopic findings of gonads, as well as expression of Bromodomain testis-specific gene. Eighty-eight sexually mature seabream were collected and investigated through the four seasons. Red blood cells were higher in autumn and spring. Hemoglobin was high in summer, MCV highest values were seen in winter and summer, while MCHC was highest in summer. The values of white blood cells increased significantly in spring, summer, and autumn compared with winter. The highest value of lymphocytes was recorded in spring and autumn. Eosinophil was recorded the highest value in the spring. The highest value of segmented neutrophils was recorded in summer. The highest value of band neutrophil was recorded in summer and winter. Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase showed high values in the winter. Luteinizing hormone (LH) was higher in females, males, and hermaphrodites during winter. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was higher in females during spring. The highest value of estradiol 17-β and progesterone was recorded in summer. The highest value of total testosterone was recorded in spring. Microscopically, ovaries were immature and inactive during spring and summer but well developed in autumn and winter. During spring and summer, testes were immature and began spermatogenesis process but well developed with the appearance of spermatids and spermatozoa during autumn and winter. The expression of Brdt was higher in testes than ovary. Brdt recorded high expression in autumn and spring than in summer and winter., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)
- Published
- 2021
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32. Identification and comparison of factors related to academic failure in medical colleges; A Bi-centre, comparative study.
- Author
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Kiran F, Aly SM, and Alshehri A
- Subjects
- Academic Failure, Cross-Sectional Studies, Humans, Pakistan epidemiology, Saudi Arabia epidemiology, Surveys and Questionnaires, Education, Medical, Undergraduate, Students, Medical
- Abstract
Objective: To evaluate student's perceptions related to their academic failure, and to compare these perceptions with their nationality., Methods: The non-interventional, bi-national, comparative study was conducted in medical colleges of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia from 2015 to 2017 and comprised medical students who had scored less than 50% in their professional examinations. Data was collected using a pre-designed 22-item questionnaire that was scored by the students on a 5-point scale. Data was analysed using SPSS 23., Results: Of the 210 students, 115(55%) were Pakistanis and 95(45%) were Saudis. Common reasons of failure identified were information overload 114(50%), difficult examination 101(48%), poor teaching skills of teachers 82(39%), system of education 75(36%) and unfair examination 78(37%). In terms of nationality, 11 items were found significant (p<0.05)., Conclusions: Regardless of cultural and environmental differences in factors contributing towards failure in students of different countries, the risk factors were found to be common, with most students blaming external factors rather than internal ones.
- Published
- 2021
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33. Impact of two different pulmonary rehabilitation methods in children with down syndrome.
- Author
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Mohamed RA, Mohamed ESH, Habshy SM, and Aly SM
- Subjects
- Adolescent, Breathing Exercises, Child, Humans, Muscle Strength, Respiratory Muscles, Down Syndrome, Muscle Stretching Exercises
- Abstract
Purpose: To investigate and compare the effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation of respiratory muscles with that of inspiratory muscle training as a preventive measure on respiratory muscle strength, chest expansion, spirometry, and functional capacity in children with Down syndrome., Methods: Forty-five Down syndrome participants with an age ranged from 10 to 13 years were enrolled. There were distributed into three groups. The study group A (n = 15) underwent proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation of respiratory muscles while study group B (n = 15) underwent inspiratory muscle training. Third group C (n = 15) was a control group. The three groups received aerobic exercises using the bicycle ergometer for 20 min, 5 times/week for 12 successive weeks. The treatment program for both study groups was conducted for 20-30 min, 5 times/week for 12 successive weeks. Measurements of respiratory muscle strength (MIP, MEP), chest expansion, spirometry test (VC, FEV1, PEFR, MVV) and 6 min walk test were measured pre and post treatment., Results: The post treatment mean values of all investigated variables were significantly increased in both study groups with higher effect to group underwent proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation of respiratory muscles., Conclusion: Both proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation of respiratory muscles and inspiratory muscle training are effective in children with Down syndrome on improving respiratory muscle strength, chest expansion, spirometry and functional capacity with superior effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest No potential conflict of interest was reported. This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2021
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34. Effect of Smartphone Usage on Neck Muscle Endurance, Hand Grip and Pinch Strength among Healthy College Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.
- Author
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Alshahrani A, Samy Abdrabo M, Aly SM, Alshahrani MS, Alqhtani RS, Asiri F, and Ahmad I
- Subjects
- Cross-Sectional Studies, Hand, Hand Strength, Humans, Male, Neck Muscles, Students, Pinch Strength, Smartphone
- Abstract
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in global smartphone usage driven by different purposes. This study aimed to explore the effect of smartphone usage on neck muscle (flexors and extensors) endurance, hand grip, and pinch strength among young, healthy college students. In total, 40 male students were recruited for this study; 20 of them belonged to the smartphone-addicted group, while the other 20 were in the non-addicted group based on their smartphone addiction scale-short version (SAS-SV) scores (the threshold for determining smartphone addiction: 31/60). Neck flexor endurance time, the ability to perform a neck extensor muscle endurance test, and hand and pinch grip strength were assessed. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to assess between-group differences in the mean values of neck flexor endurance time, hand grip, and pinch grip. A significant group effect (Wilks' lambda = 0.51, F
(5,34) = 6.34, p = 0.001, partial eta squared = 0.48) was found. A decrease in neck flexor endurance time was observed in the smartphone-addicted group compared with that of the non-addicted group ( p < 0.001). However, there was no notable difference in the neck extensor muscle endurance test or in hand grip and pinch grip strength of both hands between groups ( p > 0.05). Using a smartphone for a prolonged time might affect neck flexor muscle endurance; however, more research is needed to explore the long-term effects of using smartphones on neck muscle endurance and hand/pinch grip strength and the risk of developing upper limb neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction.- Published
- 2021
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35. Comparison of OSCE scores of surgical clinical education after face-to-face vs. blended learning methods among undergraduate medical students.
- Author
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Jawaid M, Baig L, and Aly SM
- Subjects
- Cross-Over Studies, Curriculum, Educational Measurement, Humans, Teaching, Education, Medical, Undergraduate, Students, Medical
- Abstract
Objectives: To compare the efficacy of blended learning with contemporary face-to-face teaching among medical students., Methods: The quasi-experimental, cross-over study was conducted at the Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, from March to August 2014, and comprised third year medical students posted in the surgical units who were divided into two groups. In the first month, group A was taught by blended learning (BL), while group B was taught by face-to-face (f2f) teaching. Both groups were assessed using objective structured clinical examination. In the second month, the teaching method was flipped for the groups with new learning contents. Assessment tool remained the same. Data was analysed using SPSS 23., Results: Thirty-one students completed OSCE in group A (BL) and 28 in group B (f2f). The mean score in group B was 78.01±13.29 compared to 85.12±13.77 in group A (p=0.49)., Conclusions: Blended surgical learning was found to be more effective compared to face-to-face teaching.
- Published
- 2021
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36. Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes Towards Children with Epilepsy Among Egyptian Parents: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study.
- Author
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Elsakka EE, El Said HG, Aly SM, Ibrahim EA, and Abd Elmaksoud MS
- Subjects
- Child, Cross-Sectional Studies, Egypt epidemiology, Humans, Parents, Seizures, Surveys and Questionnaires, Epilepsy epidemiology, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
- Abstract
Introduction: Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders affecting children. As a chronic disease, it affects not only the child but also the entire family. The attitudes towards the children suffering from epilepsy and the skills required to deal with acute seizures are influenced by the level of knowledge the parents have about that disease., Aim: To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and skills toward epilepsy among parents of children diagnosed with epilepsy in comparison to parents of children without epilepsy., Method: Data collected through a structured questionnaire that was designed, translated into Arabic, and analyzed statistically in a cross-sectional study for a total of 534 Egyptian parents as two groups, group I (n = 223) consist of parents with children with epilepsy and group II (n = 311) of parents with children without epilepsy. Parents with children with epilepsy were recruited from the Paediatric Neurology Outpatient Clinic of Alexandria University Children's Hospital (AUCH). Parents with children without epilepsy were recruited from other outpatient clinics or wards of AUCH., Results: This study showed a poor knowledge score percentage of (89.7 %) among parents with children with epilepsy and (83.3 %) among parents with children without epilepsy. The difference between both groups was statistically significant with fewer knowledge scores among parents of children with epilepsy. Parents of both groups showed a negative attitude score percentage; (69.5 %) of group I and (62.7 %) of group II. The difference between both groups was statistically significant with a more negative attitude score percentage among parents with children without epilepsy. Parents of both groups had poor practice score percentage of (66.8 %) of group I and (74.3 %) of group II having poor practice skills needed for emergency management of acute seizures. A high level of education was significantly associated with fair knowledge score percentage and positive attitude score percentage., Conclusions: Poor knowledge, negative attitudes, and poor skills required for the management of acute seizures were found among both parents of children with epilepsy and those with children without epilepsy. Educational programs are needed to eliminate all the misconceptions and myths and to change attitudes of the Egyptian parents towards epilepsy., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2021
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37. Difference in memory recall among medical students after reading printed text (hard copy) vs. on screen text (soft copy).
- Author
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Mehnaz A, Baig LA, and Aly SM
- Subjects
- Computers, Humans, Reading, Students, Medical
- Abstract
Objective: To compare the difference in "memory recall" among undergraduates (UGs) and postgraduates (PGs) medical students reading printed text (hard copy) vs. on-screen text (soft copy)., Methods: Final year UGs medical students (Group A) were divided into two batches, one batch was given hard copy of 1258 worded text and other group was given a soft copy of the same text. Likewise PGs (Group B) were divided into two batches, each batch was given hard copy and soft copy of the same text material with identical physical attributes. All batches were asked to read the text in 15 minutes. Text was then removed and a proforma containing statements pertaining to recall of the text material was administered to all., Results: The scores of students reading soft copy text were significantly higher compared to student reading text from hard copy (p<.008) in the proforma assessing memory recall., Conclusions: The memory recall from reading on screen text is better than reading printed (paper) text, implying that with the advancement of technology and early exposure to computer screen, students are developing the habit of reading on screen text more conveniently.
- Published
- 2021
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38. Quality assurance procedures in assessment - a descriptive study of medical colleges in Pakistan.
- Author
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Murad N and Aly SM
- Subjects
- Cross-Sectional Studies, Humans, Pakistan, Reproducibility of Results, Surveys and Questionnaires, Universities
- Abstract
Objective: To identify the quality assurance procedures being implemented in the assessment system of medical colleges in Pakistan., Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2015 to December 2017 in medical training institutions recognised by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council across Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and comprised individuals designated by the respective institutional administrations. The mixed method technique was employed using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analysed using SPSS 21., Results: Of the 49 institutions, 20(41%) were in the public sector and 29(59%) were in the private sector. Overall, 35(71.4%) institutions followed a written assessment policy provided by the affiliated university, 9(18%) never did so, 22(44.8 %) had content experts checking if the questions matched the objectives, 42(85.7%) took strict steps to prevent cheating in exams, and 26(53.1%) analysed theory exam statistically. Discrimination index, difficulty index, reliability, and point biserial were 14(28.6%), 13(26.5%), 12(24.4%), and 7(14.3%) of the medical colleges respectively. Only 12(24.5%) institutions provided written feedback on the results, and 15(30.6%) conducted annual internal audit., Conclusion: General issues related to quality assurance procedures in assessments were found to be in place in majority of the colleges. However, a large proportion did not have them.
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- 2021
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39. Efficiency of monovalent and polyvalent Vibrio alginolyticus and Vibrio Parahaemolyticus vaccines on the immune response and protection in gilthead sea bream, Sparus aurata (L.) against vibriosis.
- Author
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Aly SM, Eissa AE, ElBanna NI, and Albutti A
- Subjects
- Animals, Fish Diseases immunology, Fish Diseases microbiology, Vaccines, Combined administration & dosage, Vibrio Infections immunology, Vibrio Infections microbiology, Vibrio Infections prevention & control, Vibrio Infections veterinary, Adaptive Immunity, Bacterial Vaccines administration & dosage, Fish Diseases prevention & control, Immunity, Innate, Sea Bream, Vibrio alginolyticus immunology, Vibrio parahaemolyticus immunology
- Abstract
This experimental studies investigated the protective efficiencies and the potential immune mechanisms of vibrio monovalent and polyvalent autogenous formalin-inactivated whole-cell bacterins (FKC) in Gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) cultured in Egypt. Two months post-vaccination, the relative percentage survival (RPS) was estimated after challenge with the vaccine's homologues pathogenic strains. The survival values were 100% and 83.3% in groups immunized with monovalent V. alginolyticus or V. parahaemolyticus FKC bacterins, respectively. On the other hand, survival values were 91.75% and 75% in fish groups subjected to polyvalent (V. parahaemolyticus O11: K40 & V. alginolyticus) and (V. parahaemolyticus O3: K6 & V. alginolyticus) FKC bacterins, respectively. Overall, the tested vaccine preparations were significantly increased (P < 0.05) the agglutination antibody titer, phagocytic activity, respiratory burst activity, when compared to the non-immunized control group. The current results conclude that, autogenous Vibrio vaccines provoked a promising protection against vibriosis in Gilthead sea bream cultured in Egypt, it was superior in monovalent FKC V. alginolyticus vaccine and polyvalent FKC of V. parahaemolyticus O11: K40 with V. alginolyticus vaccine that could be useful means of prevention and control of vibriosis., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)
- Published
- 2021
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40. Effect of whole body vibration training on bone mineral density and functional capacity in children with thalassemia.
- Author
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Eid MA and Aly SM
- Subjects
- Child, Female, Humans, Male, Walk Test, Bone Density physiology, Physical Fitness physiology, Physical Therapy Modalities, Thalassemia therapy, Vibration therapeutic use
- Abstract
Purpose : To investigate the effectiveness of whole body vibration (WBV) on bone mineral density (BMD) and functional capacity in children with β-thalassemia major. Methods : Thirty-nine children (23 boys and 16 girls) with β-thalassemia major, with ages ranging from 6 to 10 years, participated in a randomized controlled trial. They were selected and randomly divided, using computer-generated random numbers into two groups. The control group (n = 20) received the medical treatment and the physical therapy program whereas the study group (n = 19) received the same program as the control group in addition to WBV training (25-30 Hz, 2 mm amplitude, 10 repetitions (30-60 s) with 1 min rest, 15-20 min/day, 3 days/week/24 weeks). Bone mineral density and functional capacity were assessed before and after 24 weeks. Results : Both groups showed a significant increase in BMD and functional capacity after treatment compared with that before treatment ( P ˂ 0.05). However, children in the study group demonstrated a significant increase in the functional capacity and the BMD of the lumbar spine, femoral neck and total body compared with that of the control group ( P > .01). Conclusions : Whole body vibration may be an effective modality in improving BMD and functional capacity in children with β-thalassemia major.
- Published
- 2021
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41. Effect of Core Stability Exercises on Hand Functions in Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy.
- Author
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Abd-Elfattah HM and Aly SM
- Abstract
Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of core stability exercises on hand functions in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy., Methods: Fifty-two children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy ranging in age from 6 years to 8 years were enrolled in this study. They were randomly assigned to two (control and study) groups. The control group received the selected physiotherapy exercises, and the study group received the same selected physiotherapy exercise program and core stability exercises. Time motor performance, gross manual dexterity, and upper extremity skills assessed using the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test, Box and Block Test, and Quality Upper Extremity Skill Test, respectively, were measured before and after 12 weeks of the treatment program., Results: There were significant improvements in both groups by comparing the mean values of all measured variables before and after treatment (p<0.05). There were significant differences between the control and study groups with respect to all measured variables when comparing the post-treatment outcomes (p<0.05)., Conclusion: This study suggests that core stability exercises can be an effective intervention that may improve hand functions in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
42. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy as a consequence of 4-fluoroamphetamine Mono-intoxication documented by toxicological analyses.
- Author
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Aly SM, Deheul S, Puymirat E, Richeval C, Allorge D, and Gaulier JM
- Subjects
- Adult, Amphetamine-Related Disorders diagnosis, Cardiovascular Agents therapeutic use, Humans, Male, Substance Abuse Detection, Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy diagnostic imaging, Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy drug therapy, Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy physiopathology, Treatment Outcome, Amphetamine-Related Disorders complications, Amphetamines poisoning, Central Nervous System Stimulants poisoning, Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy chemically induced, Ventricular Function, Left drug effects
- Published
- 2021
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43. Substance abuse among children.
- Author
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Aly SM, Omran A, Gaulier JM, and Allorge D
- Subjects
- Adolescent, Adolescent Health statistics & numerical data, Child, Child Health statistics & numerical data, Child Welfare, Global Health statistics & numerical data, Homeless Youth, Humans, Prevalence, Protective Factors, Risk Factors, Substance-Related Disorders diagnosis, Substance-Related Disorders epidemiology, Substance-Related Disorders etiology, Substance-Related Disorders prevention & control
- Abstract
Substance abuse (SA) among children is a recognized challenge for policymakers and law enforcement and has life-threatening consequences owing to the impact on the children's development and the consequent increase in vulnerability. This work outlines several important issues related to SA among children: (1) SA prevalence including onset, common examples, extent, and spectrum of SA; (2) the presence of new psychoactive substances, which are rapidly spreading worldwide with limitations regarding their prevalence, detection, and interventions; (3) street children and their recruitment in drug supply; (4) SA and substance use disorder pathways, risk and protective factors for the development of SA; (5) SA consequences in the case of early initiation, including deaths; and (6) current preventive interventions for the pediatric population. In conclusion, this challenge requires consistent and unremitting attention in order to execute effective prevention programs with continuous re-evaluation of the situation., (Copyright © 2020 French Society of Pediatrics. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
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44. Applications of forensic entomology: overview and update.
- Author
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Aly SM and Aldeyarbi H
- Subjects
- Animals, Forensic Medicine, Humans, Insecta, Forensic Entomology, Postmortem Changes, Specimen Handling
- Abstract
Despite the great strides made in fundamental and applied research, forensic entomology is constantly growing and considered to be an interconnected scientific discipline. Indeed, there is shortage in the available scientific literature in comparison to many other legal and biological subjects as well as in the number of forensic entomologists. The main goal of this work is to clarify the importance of forensic entomology by demonstration of their applications; it can provide important information about when, where, and how a particular death occurred. It can also identify the assailant and/or the victim or might highlight in some cases, the victim's state of neglect prior to death. It also aimed to demonstrate the impact of new emerging technologies; encouraging researchers to further pursue this line of research. More multidisciplinary research would lead to better understanding and identifying novel research areas. Consequently, that could meet scientific and legal expectations.
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
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45. Protective Effects of Garlic and Cinnamon Oils on Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Albino Rats.
- Author
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Aly SM, Fetaih HA, Hassanin AAI, Abomughaid MM, and Ismail AA
- Subjects
- Animals, Base Sequence, Biomarkers, Tumor blood, Body Weight drug effects, Carcinoma, Hepatocellular blood, Carcinoma, Hepatocellular genetics, Exons genetics, Glutathione metabolism, Liver drug effects, Liver enzymology, Liver pathology, Liver Neoplasms blood, Liver Neoplasms genetics, Male, Malondialdehyde metabolism, Organ Size drug effects, Plant Oils pharmacology, Protective Agents pharmacology, Rats, Superoxide Dismutase metabolism, Tumor Suppressor Protein p53 genetics, Tumor Suppressor Protein p53 metabolism, Carcinoma, Hepatocellular drug therapy, Cinnamomum zeylanicum chemistry, Garlic chemistry, Liver Neoplasms drug therapy, Plant Oils therapeutic use, Protective Agents therapeutic use
- Abstract
Natural oils are traditional medicinal herbs, which have attracted interests for its potential anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. The present work is aimed at evaluating the protective effect of garlic oil and cinnamon oil on diethylnitrosamine- (DENA-) and 2-acetylaminofluorene- (2-AAF-) induced p53 gene mutation and hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. Forty male albino rats were divided into 4 equal groups: control, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), garlic oil-HCC, and cinnamon oil-HCC. The HCC-induced group showed a significant decrease in the body mass and a significant elevation in the liver weight, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), liver enzymes, hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), and p53 protein expression levels as well as genetic mutations in intron 5 of p53 gene in the form of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertions. In addition, the glutathione (GSH) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were increased. While HCC rats pretreated with garlic oil or cinnamon oil were significantly reversed, these destructive actions increased GSH and SOD levels. The HCC-induced group showed histopathological features of liver cancer including hypercellularity, nuclear hyperchromasia, mitotic figures, and preneoplastic foci. On the other hand, HCC rats pretreated with garlic oil or cinnamon oil revealed partial reversal of normal liver architecture. The present findings proposed that these natural oils have the ability to improve liver function, significantly reduced the liver toxicity and HCC development. However, further sophisticated studies are recommended before their use as conventional therapeutics for HCC treatment., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest regarding the publication of this paper and no significant competing financial, professional, or personal interests that might have influenced the performance or presentation of the work described in this manuscript., (Copyright © 2019 Salah M. Aly et al.)
- Published
- 2019
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46. Effect of Team-based Learning on Second Year Students' Academic Performance.
- Author
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Mansoor M, Aly SM, and Javaid A
- Subjects
- Cross-Over Studies, Female, Group Processes, Humans, Male, Pakistan, Academic Performance, Education, Medical, Undergraduate, Problem-Based Learning
- Abstract
Objective: To determine if there was any significant difference in scores of students who acquired knowledge through team-based learning (TBL) versus those who learned through small group discussion (SGD)., Study Design: Quasi-experimental cross-over study., Place and Duration of Study: Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad, from March to December 2015., Methodology: All students of second year MBBS were assigned to either TBL or SGD, based on non-probability sampling, for 8 themes in a five-week module. The groups were flipped after 4 themes. TBL format recommended by the AMEE guide No: 65 was followed. The impact of both learning methods was assessed by comparing end-of-module written examination scores of the two groups through independent sample t-test. SPSS version 23 was used for data analysis. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant., Results: End-of-module written examination scores showed there was no significant difference in student academic performance when they studied with TBL or SGD in themes 1-4 (TBL 61.90 ±13.01 versus SGD 59.65 ±11.56, p=0.41). However, for themes 5-8 there was a significant difference in scores (TBL 65.36 ±11.62 versus SGD 59.92 ±10.65, p=0.03) A trend towards higher scores was observed in content learned with TBL in all eight themes., Conclusion: TBL is equally effective as an instructional method as SGD. However, it could not be established that it results in significant improvement in learning.
- Published
- 2019
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47. Attitudes of faculty and residents of surgical specialties towards professionalism at a tertiary care hospital of Islamabad.
- Author
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Manzoor A, Baig LA, and Aly SM
- Abstract
Objectives: To determine the attitudes of faculty and residents of surgical specialties towards professionalism and to test the validity and reliability of a tool developed in USA for Pakistan., Methods: An exploratory validation study was carried out at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Islamabad from 01-Aug-2016 to 31-Jan-2017. Penn State College of Medicine Professionalism Questionnaire (PSCOM) was used, being a reliable and valid survey tools. Exploratory Factor Analysis of the inter-correlations of responses for 36 items was done using SPPS v 21 to give a factor solution to reflect the perceptions regarding attitudinal elements., Results: There were 209 respondents including 172 residents and 37 faculty members. Response rate was 81.32%. Exploratory Factor Analyses of responses gave a seven factor solution of professionalism: accountability, honour and integrity, excellence, duty, altruism, equity and respect. Six of the factors that emerged reflect the six elements of professionalism reported by American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), except for 'equity', which was the new factor that emerged. Cronbach's alpha (Internal Consistency Reliability) for each element of professionalism was between 0.88-0.98., Conclusion: PSCOM is a valid, reliable, feasible and acceptable tool to assess attitudes of faculty and residents towards professionalism in Pakistan. 'Equity' emerged as a new factor which needs to be studied further.
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
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48. Lead: a hidden "untested" risk in neonatal blood transfusion.
- Author
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Aly SM, Omran A, Abdalla MO, Gaulier JM, and El-Metwally D
- Subjects
- Adult, Egypt, Erythrocyte Transfusion adverse effects, Female, Hospitals, University, Humans, Infant, Newborn, Male, Middle Aged, Platelet Transfusion adverse effects, Risk Assessment, Risk Factors, Young Adult, Blood Banks, Blood Donors, Blood Platelets chemistry, Blood Transfusion, Erythrocytes chemistry, Lead adverse effects, Lead blood, Lead Poisoning etiology
- Abstract
Background: Neonates may be exposed to lead (Pb) through blood transfusions from donors. Pb exposure has neurological, cardiovascular, renal, and other adverse effects. The study aimed to (i) determine the blood lead levels (BLLs) in different blood product units (whole blood, packed red blood cells (pRBCs), platelets, and plasma transfused to neonates) and (ii) estimate the proportion of units with high BLLs., Methods: Residual blood from blood bank bags that were used for neonatal transfusion were collected: 25 samples from each type of blood product except for whole blood (10 samples). The Pb analysis was performed using the atomic absorption method. The study was conducted at the Suez Canal University Hospital, Egypt., Results: The mean of BLL in pRBCs, platelets, plasma, and whole blood were 136, 199, 108, and 130 µg/L, respectively; 60% contained Pb above 50 µg/L. The highest BLLs were in platelet units., Conclusions: The present study showed for the first time that platelets and plasma in addition to whole blood and pRBCs used for neonatal transfusions are sources of Pb. Re-evaluation of the guidelines is mandatory for the safety of the neonates. Long-term neurodevelopment assessment of neonates exposed to high Pb is warranted.
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
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49. Effect of twister wrap orthosis on foot pressure distribution and balance in diplegic cerebral palsy.
- Author
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Eid MA, Aly SM, and Mohamed RA
- Subjects
- Biomechanical Phenomena physiology, Child, Female, Follow-Up Studies, Humans, Male, Pressure, Cerebral Palsy physiopathology, Cerebral Palsy therapy, Foot physiology, Orthotic Devices, Postural Balance physiology
- Abstract
Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of twister wrap orthosis (TWO) on foot pressure distribution and postural balance in children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (CP)., Methods: Thirty children with spastic diplegic CP, with ages ranging from 6 to 8 years, were assigned randomly into two groups. The control group received the conventional physical therapy and ankle foot orthosis (AFO), whereas the study group received the same program as the control group in addition to TWO. Measurement of foot pressure distribution using a pressure platform as well as stability indices using the Biodex Stability System was performed before and after 12 weeks of the treatment program., Results: Both groups showed a significant increase in mean and peak planter pressure on forefoot and rear foot with a significant decrease on mid foot after treatment (P⟨0.05). The study group showed a significant improvement in balance after treatment (P⟨0.05) while there was no significant difference in the control group. After treatment, the study group showed significant improvement in planter pressure and balance compared with the control group (P⟨0.05)., Conclusions: TWO could provide correction of foot pressure distribution and improve postural balance in children with spastic diplegic CP.
- Published
- 2018
50. What does it take to induce equilibrium in bidirectional energy transfers?
- Author
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Gao D, Aly SM, Karsenti PL, and Harvey PD
- Abstract
Two dyads built with a co-facial slipped bis(zinc(ii)porphyrin), a free base and a bridge, [Zn2]-bridge-[Fb] (bridge = C6H4C[triple bond, length as m-dash]C, 1 and C6H4C[triple bond, length as m-dash]CC6H4, 2), exhibit S1 energy equilibrium [Zn2]* ↔ [Fb]* at 298 K, an extremely rare situation, which depends on the degree of MO coupling between the units. At 77 K, 2 becomes bi-directional due to the two large C6H4-[Zn2] and C6H4-[Fb] dihedral angles.
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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