جامعة أم القرى
قائمة الأبحاث المنشورة 1436 - 1437 هـ
1. Soliman MM, Ho Attia HF and Abou El-Ella GA (2015). Genetic and histopathological alterations induced by cypermethrin in rat kidney and liver: Protection by sesame oil. International journal of immunopathology and pharmacology; 28:508-520. (ISI; IF = 1.61).
2. Alayat MS, Mohamed AA, Helal OF, Khaled OA (2016). Efficacy of high-intensity laser therapy in the treatment of chronic neck pain: a randomized double-blind placebo-control trial. Lasers Med Sci. 2016 Feb 25. [Epub ahead of print]. (ISI; IF = 2.48).
3. Bukhari SZ, Banjar A, Baghdadi SS, Baltow BA, Ashshi AM and Hussain WM (2015). Central line associated blood stream infection rate after intervention and comparing outcome with national healthcare safety network and international nosocomial infection control consortium data. Annals of medical and health sciences research;4:682-686. (Non-ISI).
4. Ashshi AM, Batwa SA, Kutbi SY, Malibary FA, Batwa M and Refaat B (2015). Prevalence of 7 sexually transmitted organisms by multiplex real-time PCR in Fallopian tube specimens collected from Saudi women with and without ectopic pregnancy. BMC Infect Dis.;15:569. (ISI; IF = 2.61).
5. Azhar EI, Hashem AM, El-Kafrawy SA, Abol-Ela S, Abd-Alla AMM, Sohrab SS, Farraj SA, Othman NA, Ben-Helaby HG, Ashshi A, Madani TA and Jamjoom G (2015). Complete genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of dengue type 1 virus isolated from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Virology Journal;12:1-8. (ISI; IF = 2.18).
6. Batwa SA, Ashshi AM, Kamfar FF, Ahmad J, Idris S, Khojah A, Al-Qadi NM and Refaat B (2015). Prevalence of cytomegalovirus and its effect on the expression of inducible and endothelial nitric oxide synthases in Fallopian tubes collected from women with and without ectopic pregnancy. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis.; 35:103-10. (ISI; IF = 2.66).
7. Obeidat AA, Ahmad MN, Haddad FH and Azzeh FS (2015). Evaluation of several anthropometric indices of obesity as predictors of metabolic syndrome in Jordanian adults. Nutr Hosp.; 32:667-77. (ISI; IF = 1.04).
8. Azzeh FS and Kensara OA (2015). Vitamin D Is a Good Marker for Disease Activity of Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease. Disease Markers; 2015, Article ID 260725, 6 pages 05. (ISI; IF = 1.56).
9. Obeidat AA, Ahmad MN, Haddad FH and Azzeh FS (2016). Alarming high prevalence of metabolic syndrome among Jordanian adults. Pak J Med Sci; 31:1377-82. (ISI; IF = 0.23).
10. Abdel Galil SM, Ezzeldin N and El-Boshy ME (2015). The role of serum IL-17 and IL-6 as biomarkers of disease activity and predictors of remission in patients with lupus nephritis. Cytokine;76:280-7. (ISI; IF = 2.66).
11. Abdel Galil SM, Ezzeldin N, Said D and El-Boshy ME (2015). IL-17 is a key cytokine correlating with disease activity and clinical presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus. Indian Journal of Rheumatology; 10:196–201. (Non-ISI).
12. Filimban WAH, El-Fiky AA, Helal OF, Abdelaal AAM (2015). Effect of Magnetic Therapy on Balance Deficits in Patients with Diabetic Polyneuropathy: Randomized Controlled Trial. Jokull 65:187-196. (ISI; IF = 0.7).
13. Filimban WAH, ElSawy N, Header E and El-Boshy M (2015). Evaluation of aqueous extract of Salvadora persica and Glycyrrhiza glabra in treatment of gastric ulcer. Jokull; 65: 1-12. (ISI; 0.77)
14. ElSawy NA, Shaheen UY, Filimban WA, El Malki WH, Header EA and El-Boshy ME (2015). Antiurolithic and antihypertensive activities of Origanum vulgaris on urolithic rats. J. Med. Plants Res.; 9:986-997. (ISI; IF = 0.88).
15. El-Shemi AG, Refaat B, Kensara OA, Mohamed AM, Idris S and Ahmad J (2016). Paricalcitol Enhances the Chemopreventive Efficacy of 5-Flurouracil on an Intermediate-term Model of Azoxymethane- Induced Colorectal Tumors in Rats. Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2016 Mar 28. pii: canprevres.0439.2015. [Epub ahead of print]. (ISI; IF = 4.44).
16. Kensarah OA, Jazar AS, and Azzeh FS (2015). Hypovitaminosis D in Healthy Toddlers and Preschool Children from Western Saudi Arabia. Int J Vitam Nutr Res.; 85:50-60. (ISI; IF = 0.87).
17. Khan MA and Faiz A (2016). Antimicrobial resistance patterns of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in tertiary care hospitals of Makkah and Jeddah. Ann Saudi Med.;36:23-8. (ISI; IF = 0.48).
18. Khan MA, Faiz A and Ashshi AM (2015). Maternal colonization of group B streptococcus: prevalence, associated factors and antimicrobial resistance. Ann Saudi Med.; 35:423-427. (ISI; IF = 0.48).
19. Header E, Hashish AE, ElSawy N, Abdullah Al-Kushi and El-Boshy M (2016). Effect of dietary honey on healing of gastric ulcer in experimental rats. Global Advanced Research Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences; 4. (Non-ISI).
20. Header E, Hashish AE, ElSawy NA, Al-Kushi A and El-Boshy ME (2016). Gastroprotective effects of dietary honey against acetylsalicylate induced experimental gastric ulcer in albino rats. Life Science Journal 13:42-47. (ISI; IF = 0.17).
21. Helal OF and El-Fiky AA (2015). Early Adult Detection is a Good Protector from Balance Disturbance in Elderly. Journal of Physical Therapy and Health Promotion; 3:47-51. (Non-ISI).
22. Helal OF, Kensara OA, Azzeh FS and El Kafy EMA (2016). Effect of Parathyroid Hormone and Body Mass Index on Overall Stability Index in Saudi Males with Vitamin D Deficiency. Life Science Journal; 13 (2). (ISI; IF = 0.165).
23. Dabbour IR, Jazar AS and Azzeh FS (2016). Vitamin D Status in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Makkah Region of Saudi Arabia. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition; 15:203-210. (ISI, No IF)
24. Osfor MMH, Ashshi AM, ElSawy NA, Qusty NFH and Alkushi AG (2016). effect of wheat bran consumption on serum lipid profile of hypercholesterolemia patients residence in holly Makkah. Asian Journal of Natural & Applied Sciences; 5:1-9 (Non-ISI)
25. Osfor MMH, Ashshi AM, ElSawy NA, Alkushi AG, Qusty NFH, Bakr EH, Hijazi HMH and El-Nabarawy IM (2016). Nutritional and Biochemical Parameters of Honey Contaminated with Insecticide Residues in Male Albino Rats. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition; 15. (ISI, No IF)
26. Refaat B, El-Shemi AG, Ashshi AM (2015). The effects of pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin on liver and serum concentrations of activin-A and follistatin in normal Wistar rat: a preliminary report. BMC Res Notes; 8:265. doi: 10.1186/s13104-015-1253-2. (Non-ISI).
27. Refaat B, El-Shemi AG, Ashshi AM and Azhar E (2015). Vitamin D and chronic hepatitis C: Effects on success rate and prevention of side effects associated with pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin. Int J Clin Exp Med;8(7):10284-10303. (ISI; IF = 1.2).
28. Refaat B, El-Shemi AG, Ashshi AM, Mohamadi AE and Al-Qadi NM (2015). Pegylated interferon-α modulates liver concentrations of activin-A and its related proteins in normal Wistar rat. Mediators Inflamm.; 2015:414207. doi: 10.1155/2015/414207. (ISI; IF = 3.23).
29. Refaat B, El-Shemi AG, Kensara OA, Mohamed AM, Idris S, Ahmad J, Khojah A (2015). Vitamin D3 enhances the tumouricidal effects of 5-Fluorouracil through multipathway mechanisms in azoxymethane rat model of colon cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res.; 34:71. doi: 10.1186/s13046-015-0187-9. (ISI; IF = 4.43).
ملخص الأبحاث المنشورة 2015 - 2016
1. Soliman MM, Ho Attia HF and Abou El-Ella GA (2015). Genetic and histopathological alterations induced by cypermethrin in rat kidney and liver: Protection by sesame oil. International journal of immunopathology and pharmacology; 28:508-520. (ISI; IF = 1.61).
http://iji.sagepub.com/content/28/4/508.abstract
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
2. Alayat MS, Mohamed AA, Helal OF, Khaled OA (2016). Efficacy of high-intensity laser therapy in the treatment of chronic neck pain: a randomized double-blind placebo-control trial. Lasers Med Sci. 2016 Feb 25. [Epub ahead of print]. (ISI; IF = 2.48).
http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10103-016-1910-2
(Physiotherapy Department)
ABSTRACT
The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) in treatment of patients with chronic neck pain (CNP) on cervical range of motion (ROM), pain, and functional activity. Sixty male patients participated in this study with mean (SD) age of 35.47 (4.18) years. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups and treated with HILT plus exercise (HILT + EX) and placebo laser plus exercise (PL + EX) in groups 1 and 2, respectively. The outcomes measured were cervical ROM, pain level by visual analog scale (VAS), and functional activity by neck disability index (NDI) score. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the differences between baseline and post-treatment. The level of statistical significance was set as p < 0.05. Cervical ROM significantly increased after 6 weeks of treatment in all groups. VAS and NDI results showed significant decrease post-treatment in both groups. HILT + EX effectively increased cervical ROM and decreased VAS and NDI scores after 6 weeks of treatment compared to PL + EX. HILT + EX is an effective physical therapy modality for patients with CNP compared to PL + EX therapy. The combination of HILT + EX effectively increased cervical ROM, functional activity, and reduced pain after 6 weeks of treatment.
3. Bukhari SZ, Banjar A, Baghdadi SS, Baltow BA, Ashshi AM and Hussain WM (2015). Central line associated blood stream infection rate after intervention and comparing outcome with national healthcare safety network and international nosocomial infection control consortium data. Annals of medical and health sciences research;4:682-686. (Non-ISI).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4199155/
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
Background: Benchmarking of central line associated blood stream infection (CLABSI) rates remains a problem in developing countries due to the variations in surveillance practices and/or infection risk as non-availability of national data. Aim: The aim of the following study was to find out the CLABSI rate before and after central line (CL) bundle intervention and compare the outcome with international surveillance data. Subjects and Methods: This prospective longitudinal cohort study on adult intensive care unit patients was conducted at Hera General Hospital, Makkah Saudi Arabia from January 1 to December 31, 2012. Five key components of bundle were selected; hand hygiene, maximal barrier precautions upon insertion, skin antisepsis, optimum site selection and daily review of line necessity with prompt removal of unnecessary lines. Post-intervention CLABSI rate was compared with National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) and International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC) rates. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 14.0 software (SPSS Inc., 233 South Wacker Drive, 11th floor Chicago, USA) was used for statistical analysis included regression analysis for correlation. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: CLABSI rate was reduced from 10.1 to 6.5 per 1000 CL days after interventions and had significant correlation with overall bundle compliance rate 87.6% (P = 0.02) On benchmarking, CLABSI rate after the intervention was similar to mean pool value of INICC (6.8) while higher than NHSN (3.1). The most common microorganisms isolated were; methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (30.8%),Acinetobacter baumanii (23.3%) and Enterococcus faecalis (15.4%). Conclusion: We found that INICC data was a better benchmarking tool comparative to NHSN because it represents the countries that are developing the surveillance system. A multicenter national study is recommended.
4. Ashshi AM, Batwa SA, Kutbi SY, Malibary FA, Batwa M and Refaat B (2015). Prevalence of 7 sexually transmitted organisms by multiplex real-time PCR in Fallopian tube specimens collected from Saudi women with and without ectopic pregnancy. BMC Infect Dis.;15:569. (ISI; IF = 2.61).
http://bmcinfectdis.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12879-015-1313-1
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Ectopic pregnancy (EP) is associated with maternal morbidity and occasionally mortality during the first trimester. A history of sexually transmitted infection (STI) and pelvic inflammatory disease have been implicated as major risk factors for EP. Our aim was to measure the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), Ureaplasma parvum/urealyticum, Gardnerella vaginalis, Trichomonas vaginalis and herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1&2 in Fallopian tubes collected from EP and the results were compared with those obtained from total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) and tubal ligation. METHODS: This was a prospective case-control study and tubal samples were collected from 135 Saudi women recruited from 3 centres in the Western region as follow: 84 EPs, 20 TAH and 31 tubal ligations. Multiplex TaqMan PCR was performed using an IVD CE kit for the simultaneous detection of candidate pathogens following DNA extraction. RESULTS: Infections were detected in 31.8 % of the 135 participants either as single (11.1 %) or co-infections (20.7 %) and the frequencies were significantly higher in EP (42.85 %) compared with control (13.72 %). The rates of CT (27.4 %; P = 0.001); MG (20.2 %; P = 0.009) and HSV-1/2 (21.4 %; P = 0.01) were significantly higher in EP. No significant difference between the study groups was observed for the other pathogens (P > 0.05). Binary logistic regression also showed that infection with ≥ 2 pathogens (OR 4.9; 95 % CI: 2.2 - 11.6; P = 0.006), CT (OR 3.07; 95 % CI: 1.3 - 12.3; P = 0.002), MG (OR 2.3; 95 % CI: 1.1 - 8.6; P = 0.03) and HSV-1/2 (OR 1.7; 95 % CI: 0.75 - 5.7; P = 0.004) were associated with a significantly higher risk of developing EP. CONCLUSIONS: STIs are frequent in the upper genital tract of Saudi women during the reproductive age and, CT, MG and HSV-1/2 were more prevalent in EP. The observed high rates of co-infection advocate the necessity of establishing national guidelines and/or screening program utilising multiplex PCR approach for the detection of common STIs among high risk groups in the kingdom. Further studies are needed to measure the adverse reproductive outcomes associated with STIs in Saudi Arabia.
5. Azhar EI, Hashem AM, El-Kafrawy SA, Abol-Ela S, Abd-Alla AMM, Sohrab SS, Farraj SA, Othman NA, Ben-Helaby HG, Ashshi A, Madani TA and Jamjoom G (2015). Complete genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of dengue type 1 virus isolated from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Virology Journal;12:1-8. (ISI; IF = 2.18).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4310205/
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
Background: Dengue viruses (DENVs) are mosquito-borne viruses which can cause disease ranging from mild fever to severe dengue infection. These viruses are endemic in several tropical and subtropical regions. Multiple outbreaks of DENV serotypes 1, 2 and 3 (DENV-1, DENV-2 and DENV-3) have been reported from the western region in Saudi Arabia since 1994. Strains from at least two genotypes of DENV-1 (Asia and America/Africa genotypes) have been circulating in western Saudi Arabia until 2006. However, all previous studies reported from Saudi Arabia were based on partial sequencing data of the envelope (E) gene without any reports of full genome sequences for any DENV serotypes circulating in Saudi Arabia. Findings: Here, we report the isolation and the first complete genome sequence of a DENV-1 strain (DENV-1-Jeddah-1-2011) isolated from a patient from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in 2011. Whole genome sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis showed high similarity between DENV-1-Jeddah-1-2011 strain and D1/H/IMTSSA/98/606 isolate (Asian genotype) reported from Djibouti in 1998. Further analysis of the full envelope gene revealed a close relationship between DENV-1-Jeddah-1-2011 strain and isolates reported between 2004–2006 from Jeddah as well as recent isolates from Somalia, suggesting the widespread of the Asian genotype in this region. Conclusions: These data suggest that strains belonging to the Asian genotype might have been introduced into Saudi Arabia long before 2004 most probably by African pilgrims and continued to circulate in western Saudi Arabia at least until 2011. Most importantly, these results indicate that pilgrims from dengue endemic regions can play an important role in the spread of new DENVs in Saudi Arabia and the rest of the world. Therefore, availability of complete genome sequences would serve as a reference for future epidemiological studies of DENV-1 viruses.
6. Batwa SA, Ashshi AM, Kamfar FF, Ahmad J, Idris S, Khojah A, Al-Qadi NM and Refaat B (2015). Prevalence of cytomegalovirus and its effect on the expression of inducible and endothelial nitric oxide synthases in Fallopian tubes collected from women with and without ectopic pregnancy. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis.; 35:103-10. (ISI; IF = 2.66).
http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10096-015-2514-7
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
To measure the prevalence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in ectopic pregnancy (EP) and its effect on the expression of inducible and endothelial nitric oxide synthases (iNOS, eNOS) by Fallopian tubes (FT) bearing an EP. This was a prospective case-control study. Blood and tubal samples were collected from 84 Eps and 51 controls (20 total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH) during the luteal phase and another 31 tubal ligations). CMV IgM and IgG antibodies were measured by ELISA, and an IVD CE PCR kit was used to detect CMV in the FTs. iNOS and eNOS were measured by immunohistochemistry and quantitative RT-PCR in FTs obtained from CMV-positive EP (n = 12), and the results were compared with those obtained from CMV-negative EP (n = 11) and TAH (n = 8). The frequencies of CMV IgM (51.2 % vs 17.6 %), IgG (77.4 % vs 52.9 %) or both antibodies (41.6 % vs 11.7 %) were significantly higher in EP compared with control. CMV was more common by PCR in FTs from EP (21.4 %) than controls (5.9 %). Twelve women from the PCR positive EP cases (66.6 %) were also simultaneously positive for both CMV IgM & IgG antibodies and had higher expression of eNOS and iNOS at the protein and gene levels compared with negative EP and TAH. Tubal infection with CMV may lead to EP by increasing the production of endothelial and inducible NOS by the FT epithelial cells. Further studies are required to illustrate the role of CMV in the pathogenesis of EP.
7. Obeidat AA, Ahmad MN, Haddad FH and Azzeh FS (2015). Evaluation of several anthropometric indices of obesity as predictors of metabolic syndrome in Jordanian adults. Nutr Hosp.; 32:667-77. (ISI; IF = 1.04).
http://www.nutricionhospitalaria.com/pdf/9063.pdf
(Clinical Nutrition Department)
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: anthropometric indices have all been tested for their relation to metabolic syndrome (MetS), but with no consistent cut-off points are yet established among different population group. OBJECTIVE: this study aims to evaluate the predictive power of several anthropometric indices of central obesity as predictors of MetS in a group of Jordanian adults. METHODS: in this cross sectional study, 630 adult subjects (308 men and 322 women) aged between 20-70 years were recruited at the King Hussein Medical Center in Amman (Jordan). The diagnosis of MetS was defined by the International Diabetes Federation criteria. Anthropometric measurements (waist circumference [WC]; waist to hip ratio [WHpR]; waist to height ratio [WHtR]; body mass index [BMI]) were performed and recorded following standard procedures. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the efficacy of anthropometric measurements as predictors of MetS. RESULTS: the results indicated that, in men for identifying subjects with MetS risk, area under curve (AUC) from the ROC curves for WC was 0.851, AUC for WHpR was 0.842, AUC for WHtR was 0.85, and AUC for BMI was 0.83. In women, AUC for WC, WHpR, WHtR, and BMI were 0.866, 0.871, 0.872, and 0.831, respectively. CONCLUSION: it could be concluded that among anthropometric indices, both WHtR and WC had the strongest predictive power for identifying subjects with MetS in men and women. WHtR appears to be the best indicator of central obesity in women and individuals of short stature.
8. Azzeh FS and Kensara OA (2015). Vitamin D Is a Good Marker for Disease Activity of Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease. Disease Markers; 2015, Article ID 260725, 6 pages 05. (ISI; IF = 1.56).
h http://www.hindawi.com/journals/dm/2015/260725/
(Clinical Nutrition Department)
ABSTRACT
Aim. This study was conducted to find out the optimal vitamin D cutoff point in predicting activity of RA disease. Materials and Methods. One hundred and two rheumatoid arthritis Saudi patients of both genders were recruited in this study. Vitamin D as 25-hydroxy-vitamin D [25(OH)D] was measured and serum level less than 20 ng/mL defined as deficient patient. Disease activity was measured based on the disease activity score index of a 28-joint count (DAS28) using serum erythrocyte sedimentation rate levels. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the optimal vitamin D cutoff points for identifying disease activity. Results. It has been observed that vitamin D levels were lower (P < 0.05) in patients with high disease activity. A significant inverse correlation between serum 25(OH)D levels and DAS28 (r = −0.277, P = 0.014) was shown. ROC curves results showed that vitamin D less than 12.3 ng/mL predicted high disease activity, and vitamin D more than 17.9 ng/mL predicted low disease activity, with good sensitivity and accuracy results regarding vitamin D. Conclusion. Study results concluded that vitamin D is a good predictor of RA disease activity in Saudi patients.
9. Obeidat AA, Ahmad MN, Haddad FH and Azzeh FS (2016). Alarming high prevalence of metabolic syndrome among Jordanian adults. Pak J Med Sci; 31:1377-82. (ISI; IF = 0.23).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4744285/
(Clinical Nutrition Department)
ABSTRACT
Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and the individual components of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Jordanian adults. Methods: In this cross sectional study, 630 adult subjects (308 men and 322 women) aged between 20-70 years were recruited from the clinics at the King Hussein Medical Center. The diagnosis of MetS was made according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria-2005. Blood samples were collected after 10-12 hours overnight fasting and serum was obtained for biochemical analysis. Results: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome according to IDF criteria was 51% (46.4% in men and 55.3% in women). Prevalence of increased waist circumference in the total sample was 71.6%, 46% for high blood pressure, 42.4% for elevated fasting blood glucose, 43.5% for low high density lipoprotein, and 50.2% for hypertriglyceridemia. Conclusion: The prevalence and individual components of MetS in Jordan were high. Screening of MetS is needed at national level to reduce the incidence of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
10. Abdel Galil SM, Ezzeldin N and El-Boshy ME (2015). The role of serum IL-17 and IL-6 as biomarkers of disease activity and predictors of remission in patients with lupus nephritis. Cytokine;76:280-7. (ISI; IF = 2.66).
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1043466615001878
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
AIM: To determine the role of IL-17 and IL-6 in the pathogenesis of SLE as biomarkers of disease activity and predictors of remission and outcome of therapy in patients with active lupus nephritis. METHODS: The study was carried out on 72 SLE female patients and 70 sex- and age-matched normal healthy subjects as controls. SLE disease activity was assessed in all patients with (SLEDAI-2k scores). Plasma levels of IL-6, and IL-17 were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and their levels were correlated with clinical manifestations of the disease and (SLEDAI-2k). ROC curve analysis was performed to determine the validity of both cytokines in prediction of activity and remission of active lupus nephritis. RESULTS: SLE patients were found to have significantly higher levels of IL-17 (p<0.001) and IL-6 (p<0.001), in relation to normal subjects. Active group of patients had higher levels of both cytokines than the inactive one (P<0.001). Elevated serum levels of both cytokines were associated with active lupus nephritis, anemia and positively correlated with SLEDAI-2k scores (P=0.025 for IL-17 and P<0.001 for IL-6). There was a significant positive correlation between IL-6 and IL-17 serum concentrations during periods of disease activity (r=0.497, P=0.005) as well as during remission (r=0.662, P<0.001). ROC curve analysis for IL-6 and IL-17, as predictor of disease activity reviled, optimal cutoff level of 12.3 pg/ml and 19.7 pg/ml, with AUC=0.93, and 0.95, for both cytokines respectively, while as predictors of remission of active lupus nephritis, provide a cutoff value of IL-6 at 20.8 pg/ml, with AUC 0.80, and a cutoff value of IL-17 at 27.0 pg/ml, with AUC 0.82. CONCLUSION: In conjunction with their major role in pathogenesis of SLE, baseline serum levels of IL-6 and IL-17 can be used as sensitive biomarkers for disease activity, as well as predictors of remission of lupus nephritis.
11. Abdel Galil SM, Ezzeldin N, Said D and El-Boshy ME (2015). IL-17 is a key cytokine correlating with disease activity and clinical presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus. Indian Journal of Rheumatology; 10:196–201. (Non-ISI).
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S097336981500120X
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
NO ABSTRACT
Aims: To determine the role of IL-17 cytokine in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and its association with clinical presentation of the disease and disease activity. Methods 72 SLE patients and 70 healthy age and sex matched controls were included in the study. SLE disease activity was assessed in all patients with SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI-2K) scores. Plasma levels of IL-6, and IL-17 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and correlated their levels with clinical manifestations of the disease and SLEDAI-2K. Results Plasma levels of IL-6 and IL-17 were significantly elevated in SLE patients than in control subjects (13.98 ± 6.95 versus 7.47 ± 1.23 pg/mL) and (19.47 ± 10.21 versus 9.93 ± 1.89 pg/mL), respectively. IL-6 and IL-17 were positively correlated with SLEDAI-2K scores (r = 0.684 at P < 0.001, r = 0.322 at P = 0.006), and lupus nephritis (r = 0.364 at P = 0.002, r = 0.474 at P < 0.001) respectively; similarly, the IL-17/IL-6 ratio was positively correlated with SLEDAI-2K (r = 0.243 at P = 0.039). Also, the level of both cytokines was positively correlated to each other during periods of disease activity (r = 0.755, P < 0.001) as well as during remission (r = 0.384, P = 0.040). Conclusion Over-expression of IL-17 correlates with disease activity of SLE. A longitudinal study in a larger cohort of SLE patients can help validate the results.
12. Filimban WAH, El-Fiky AA, Helal OF, Abdelaal AAM (2015). Effect of Magnetic Therapy on Balance Deficits in Patients with Diabetic Polyneuropathy: Randomized Controlled Trial. Jokull; 65:187-196. (ISI; IF = 0.7).
(Physiotherapy Department)
ABSTRACT
Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common chronic diseases all over the world. Incidence of and complications of DM has been increased over the last decade. Diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) plays a significant role in falling among elderly patients because of significantly impaired sensation in the feet and reduced ability to properly control balance during daily activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of low frequency pulsed magnetic therapy (LFPMT) on balance in patients with DPN. Methods: Thirty male patient with DPN were randomly assigned into two groups G1 (Study group) and G2 (Control group). Balance was evaluated pre and post-study using the Biodex Stability System and Short Form of Berg Balance Scale (SFBBS). G1 was treated with LFPMT for 30 min in session, 3 sessions in a week, for six weeks, while G2 received identical sham sessions. The results: Pre-study (between groups) comparison revealed that the mean values of the overall stability indices (OSI) were (1.75 ± 0.75, 2.12 ± 0.45) for G1 and G2 respectively (P=0.11), the mean values of the SFBBS were (18.8± 3.61, 19.8± 1.93) for G1 and G2 respectively (P=0.35). At the end of the study (within groups) comparison revealed that the mean values of the OSI were (1.41 ± 0.78, 2.16 ± 0.7) for G1 (P=0.02) and G2 (P= 0.77) respectively, the mean values of the SFBBS were (23.07 ± 3.61,19.6 ±1.18) for G1 (P=0.00002) and G2 (P= 0.68) respectively. Post-study (between groups) comparison revealed that there were significant differences in SFBBS (P= 0.002) and OSI (P = 0.01), but in favor of G1. Conclusions: LFPMT is an effective therapeutic modality in improving balance in patients with DPN.
13. Filimban WAH, ElSawy N, Header E and El-Boshy M (2015). Evaluation of aqueous extract of Salvadora persica and Glycyrrhiza glabra in treatment of gastric ulcer. Jokull; 65: 1-12. (ISI; 0.77).
(Laboratory Medicine & Clinical Nutrition Departments)
ABSTRACT
Salvadora persica extract have been demonstrated to possess antimicrobial activity, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Glycyrrhiza glabra, is one of the oldest and most commonly prescribed herbs in Eastern traditional medicine, and has been used to treat tuberculosis, peptic ulcers, and liver injury in a number of clinical disorders. Meanwhile mastic gum was removed to measured the length of gastric ulcer.The peptic ulcer will induce in rat by oral administration aspirin at a dose of 200 mg/ Kg.bw and oral administration aqueous plants extract extract at a dose of 200 & 400 mg/ Kg. Bw for 7 days.
14. ElSawy NA, Shaheen UY, Filimban WA, El Malki WH, Header EA and El-Boshy ME (2015). Antiurolithic and antihypertensive activities of Origanum vulgaris on urolithic rats. J. Med. Plants Res.; 9:986-997. (ISI; IF = 0.88.
(Laboratory Medicine & Clinical Nutrition Departments)
ABSTRACT
Origanum vulgaris (Oregano) has been used in the fluky medicinal for treating various diseases including urolithiasis and hypertension. This study was designed to investigate the possible antioxidant and antiurolithic activities of different standardized extracts of Oregano ethanol extract n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and aqueous fraction on rats. The dried hydroalcoholic extract of 70% ethyl alcohol Oregano was suspended in water and successively extracted with n-hexane and ethyl acetate. Each active extract was screened of phytochemical and standardized spectrophotometricaly by estimation of total phenol and total flavonoid content. Antiurolithic and antioxidant activities were studied on live rat model by oral doses of ethylene glycol and NH4Cl. The active extracts of Oregano (20 mg/kg) were given to different groups and one group without extracts was used as control. At the end of the experimental period, blood samples were obtained from studying biochemical parameters and a kidney specimen for histopathology using scanning electron microscope. Ethanol extract, n-hexane and aqueous fractions prevented as well as opposed toxic changes, including loss of body weight gain and appetite, raised serum urea, uric acid and creatinine levels, and crystal deposition in the kidneys. These potential urolithitic effects of ethylene glycol should be taken into considerations with close monitoring of kidney function tests at frequent intervals. The oregano antioxidant effect might be more effective in the amelioration of ethylene glycol induced kidney injury and urolithiasis.
15. El-Shemi AG, Refaat B, Kensara OA, Mohamed AM, Idris S and Ahmad J (2016). Paricalcitol Enhances the Chemopreventive Efficacy of 5-Flurouracil on an Intermediate-term Model of Azoxymethane- Induced Colorectal Tumors in Rats. Cancer Prev Res (Phila). 2016 Mar 28. pii: canprevres.0439.2015. [Epub ahead of print]. (ISI; IF = 4.44).
(Laboratory Medicine & Clinical Nutrition Departments)
ABSTRACT
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common cancer with high mortality rate. Despite it is the standard anti-CRC drug, 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) exhibits only limited therapeutic benefits. Herein, we investigated would paricalcitol (Pcal), a synthetic vitamin D analog with potential antitumor properties, enhance the chemopreventive efficacy of 5-FU on an intermediate-term (15 weeks) model of colorectal tumors induced by azoxymethane (AOM) in rats. Post-AOM injection, 5-FU was administered during the 9th and 10th weeks (12 mg/kg/day for 4 days, then 6 mg/kg every other day for another 4 doses), while Pcal (2.5 μg/kg/day; three days/week) was given from the 7th to the 15th week. At week 15, the animals were euthanized and their resected colons were examined macroscopically and microscopically. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to measure the transcription activities of Wnt, β-catenin, DKK-1, CDNK-1A, NF-κB, and COX-2 genes; and ELISA was used to quantify the protein levels of β-catenin, COX-2, HSP-90, and VEGF. Immunohistochemistry was additionally used to measure β-catenin, HSP90, and iNOS. Compared with their individual therapy, combination of 5-FU and Pcal showed more significant reducing effect on numbers of grown tumors and large aberrant crypts foci. Mechanistically, Pcal and 5-FU had cooperated together to more repress the expression of pro-cancerous Wnt, β-catenin, NF-κB, COX-2, iNOS, VEGF and HSP-90, and to upregulate the expression of anti-tumorigenesis DKK-1 and CDNK-1A, compared with their monotherapies. Our findings suggest that combined use of Pcal with 5-FU exhibits an augmenting chemopreventive effect against colorectal tumors, and might potentially be useful for chemoprevention in CRC patients.
16. Kensarah OA, Jazar AS, and Azzeh FS (2015). Hypovitaminosis D in Healthy Toddlers and Preschool Children from Western Saudi Arabia. Int J Vitam Nutr Res.; 85:50-60. (ISI; IF = 0.87).
(Clinical Nutrition Department)
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Vitamin D deficiency is common in Saudi Arabia. No sufficient data are available on the vitamin D status of preschool children. AIMS: To investigate the vitamin D status among toddlers and preschool children and to evaluate the factors associated with hypovitaminosis D in Western Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 503 preschool children in Makkah. The children were divided into two age categories: 1 - 3 years (toddlers) and 3 - 6 years (preschool). Sociodemographic factors, life-style factors, eating habits, body mass index (BMI), 25-(OH)-vitamin D3, parathyroid hormone, calcium, phosphorous, and alkaline phosphatase concentrations were determined. RESULTS: Sixty-three % of children had a vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D in toddlers was significantly higher than in preschool children. Vitamin D levels were negatively correlated with BMI (r = - 0.419, P < 0.001), and duration of breast feeding (r = - 0.270, P = 0.027), but a significant positive correlation with vitamin D intake (r = 0.335, P = 0.021), calcium intake (r = 0.25, P = 0.029), duration of formula feeding (r = 0.354, P = 0.019), and outdoor physical activity (r = 0.381, P = 0.011) was found. Multivariable predictors of hypovitaminosis D were preschool age (OR = 11, [95 % CI: 2.78 - 43.57], P < 0.001), outdoor physical inactivity (OR = 2.44, [95 % CI: 0.93 - 14.12], P < 0.001), obesity (OR = 2.3, [95 % CI: 1.25 - 7.08], P = 0.008), overweight (OR = 2.16, [95 % CI: 1.18 - 6.01], P = 0.039), inadequate vitamin D intake (OR = 1.65, [95 % CI: 1.12 - 2.53], P = 0.012), exclusive formula feeding (OR = 0.53, [95 % CI: 0.41 - 0.72], P < 0.001), and breast and formula feeding (OR = 0.62 [95 % CI: 0.39 - 0.88], P = 0.002). CONCLUSION: Hypovitaminosis D is a public health concern, especially in preschool children. Possible determinants of low vitamin D status in preschool children in the Makkah region could be related to age, high BMI, inadequate vitamin D intake, exclusive breastfeeding, and outdoor physical inactivity.
17. Khan MA and Faiz A (2016). Antimicrobial resistance patterns of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in tertiary care hospitals of Makkah and Jeddah. Ann Saudi Med.;36:23-8. (ISI; IF = 0.48).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26922684
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The clinical significance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa has greatly increased due to its ability to rapidly develop resistance to major groups of antibiotics. OBJECTIVES: Our objective was to determine the pattern of antimicrobial resistance of P aeruginosa. DESIGN: Prospective, descriptive study. SETTING: Four tertiary care hospitals in Makkah and Jeddah. METHODS: Clinical isolates of P aeruginosa were processed following standard microbiological procedures. A Microscan Walk Away system was used for the identification and antibiotic susceptibility of P aeruginosa isolates. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Percentage of resistance of P aeruginosa to antibiotics. RESULTS: The overall drug resistance among 121 strains of P aeruginosa was low to moderate to commonly used anti-pseudomonal drugs (4.9% to 30.6%). Significantly less resistance was exhibited by piperacillin tazobactam (4.9%; P < .05) and meropenem showed significantly high resistance (30.6%; P < .05) as compared to other antibiotics, followed by ticarcillin (22.3%) and imipenem (19%), irrespective of the site of infection. The antibiotics with < 10% resistance were cefepime (8.3%), amikacin (7.4%) and piperacillin-tazobactam, which showed lowest resistance (4.9%). Although, data varied between hospitals, meropenem and ticarcillin had the highest drug resistance in all hospitals. Multidrug resistance was 10.7%. CONCLUSION: Low-to-moderate rates of drug resistance among P aeruginosa isolates were observed. Meropenem resistance was high irrespective of the site of infection. This pattern of resistance indicates probable overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics like carbapenems. Overuse needs to be addressed by each institution, and consideration given to regulating use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. LIMITATIONS: Results cannot be generalized as the study did not include all tertiary hospitals in these cities.
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18. Khan MA, Faiz A and Ashshi AM (2015). Maternal colonization of group B streptococcus: prevalence, associated factors and antimicrobial resistance. Ann Saudi Med.; 35:423-427. (ISI; IF = 0.48).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26657224
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Group B streptococcus (GBS, Streptococcus agalactiae) can be transferred during delivery to neonates from mothers who are colonized with GBS in the genital tract. GBS can cause sepsis and meningitis in newborns. This study was conducted to determine GBS colonization rates among pregnant women and the antibiotic sensitivity patterns. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective descriptive study at the Maternity and Children Hospital, Makkah. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Vaginal swabs from 1328 pregnant women (>=35 weeks of gestation) attending antenatal clinic were cultured in Todd-Hewitt broth supplemented with gentamicin and nalidixic acid. After 36 hours of incubation, subculture was made onto sheep blood agar and incubated in 5% carbon dioxide for 18 to 24 hours. A Microscan Walk Away system was used for the identification and antibiotic susceptibility of GBS isolates. Each isolate was also tested for group B by using latex slide agglutination test. Information such as maternal age, gestational age and parity was collected using a predesigned questionnaire. RESULTS: The study population ranged between ages 17-47 years. The GBS colonization in all age groups was found to be 13.4%. A higher colonization rate was seen in pregnant women > 40 years of age (27.4%). Women with gestational age > 42 weeks were colonized (25%) more frequently that women with a gestational age from 41-42 weeks (20.2%). An increased rate of colonization was found in women who delivered > 5 times and no colonization in women who delivered once. All GBS isolates were 100% sensitive to penicillin G, ampicillin and vancomycin. Erythromycin and clindamycin showed resistance-15.7% and 5.1%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of GBS colonization in pregnant women demands for screening in women attending an antenatal clinic so that intrapartum antimicrobial prophylaxis can be offered to all women who are colonized with GBS, thus preventing its transfer to the newborn.
19. Header E, Hashish AE, ElSawy N, Abdullah Al-Kushi and El-Boshy M (2016). Effect of dietary honey on healing of gastric ulcer in experimental rats. Global Advanced Research Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences; 4. (Non-ISI).
(Clinical Nutrition & Laboratory Medicine Departments)
ABSTRACT
Honey is a substance produced by bees from the nectar of plants. It is used as a medicine. It is known forits biological properties, having antibacterial, antifungal and healing properties. This work was designed to explorethe effect of honey extracts on healing of gastric ulcer in experimental rats. Thirty male albino rats (170+5g bw)were used and allocated into 6 equal groups. Group1 (Gp-1) used as negative control while the Gp2-5 were givenaspirin orally (200mg/kg bw), and Gp3-5 were treated with honey at doses of 3.5, 7 and 14 ml/kg bw, for seven daysrespectively. The length of gastric ulcer, volume of gastric juice, total acidity, pH value, and histopathologicalchanges of the stomach were examined. The results revealed that treated orally with honey extracts reduced thelength of gastric ulcer, total acidity, volume of gastric juice, and ameliorate histopathological changes caused byAcetylsalicylate. It is concluded that, honey could be used for healing acute gastric ulcer.
20. Header E, Hashish AE, ElSawy NA, Al-Kushi A and El-Boshy ME (2016). Gastroprotective effects of dietary honey against acetylsalicylate induced experimental gastric ulcer in albino rats. Life Science Journal 13:42-47. (ISI; IF = 0.17).
(Clinical Nutrition & Laboratory Medicine Departments)
ABSTRACT
Honey is a substance produced by bees from the nectar of plants. It is used as a medicine. It is known forits biological properties, having antibacterial, antifungal and healing properties. This work was designed to explorethe effect of honey extracts on healing of gastric ulcer in experimental rats. Thirty male albino rats (170+5g bw)were used and allocated into 6 equal groups. Group1 (Gp-1) used as negative control while the Gp2-5 were givenaspirin orally (200mg/kg bw), and Gp3-5 were treated with honey at doses of 3.5, 7 and 14 ml/kg bw, for seven daysrespectively. The length of gastric ulcer, volume of gastric juice, total acidity, pH value, and histopathologicalchanges of the stomach were examined. The results revealed that treated orally with honey extracts reduced thelength of gastric ulcer, total acidity, volume of gastric juice, and ameliorate histopathological changes caused byAcetylsalicylate. It is concluded that, honey could be used for healing acute gastric ulcer.
21. Helal OF and El-Fiky AA (2015). Early Adult Detection is a Good Protector from Balance Disturbance in Elderly. Journal of Physical Therapy and Health Promotion; 3:47-51. (Non-ISI).
http://www.bowenpublishing.com/pthp/paperInfo.aspx?PaperID=17067
(Physiotherapy Department)
ABSTRACT
Balance has often been used as a measure of lower extremity function, and any disturbance is considered a critical problem that has a great risk in elderly subjects. Thus, the early recognition of balance disturbance in adults is highly recommended. To determine the balance disturbances and risk of falling among University students as well as to establish a database for balance levels in this university community, cross sectional study was carried out on random samples of 31 young adult male volunteers aged between 18 to 25 years using the Biodex Balance System (BBS) to measure postural stability and risk of falling. The results showed that there is a prevalence of balance disturbance as well as a positive correlation between body mass index (BMI) and postural instability index. There are signs of a high proportion of balance disorder among adult university students, and there is a positive correlation between BMI and postural instability; when BMI increases, postural control deteriorates.
22. Helal OF, Kensara OA, Azzeh FS and El Kafy EMA (2016). Effect of Parathyroid Hormone and Body Mass Index on Overall Stability Index in Saudi Males with Vitamin D Deficiency. Life Science Journal; 13 (2). (ISI; IF = 0.165).
http://www.lifesciencesite.com/lsj/life130216/001_30150lsj130216_1_6.pdf
(Physiotherapy and Clinical Nutrition Departments)
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study is to determine the correlation between parathyroid hormone (PTH) and body mass index (BMI) on the overall stability index (OSI) in Saudi males with vitamin D deficiency. Method: A total of 669 adult Saudi males with mean age of 19.9 years suffering from vitamin D deficiency were participated in this study. The subjects were divided according to their PTH status into two groups; group 1 (n=619) having a normal PTH values; and group 2 (n=50) suffering from hyperparathyroidism. Participants were also categorized based on their BMI into; underweight (BMI30). The OSI protocol was used to compare vitamin D deficiency subjects’ that having normal PTH values with those suffering from hyperparathyroidism for different BMI categories. The Biodex Balance System was used to measure the OSI values. Results: No significant differences were observed between normal and high PTH groups in age, weight, height, BMI, OSI, vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase. A significant positive correlation between OSI and PTH (r=0.135, P=0.011) was perceived. The results also revealed that the BMI had a significant positive association with OSI (r=0.521, P<0.001). In addition, BMI had positive correlation with PTH (r=0.109, P=0.042). The highest average OSI value was observed in the subjects having both obesity and hyperparathyroidism. Conclusion: The PTH and BMI have a positive correlation with OSI, which means that hyperparathyroidism and obesity synergistically increase the risk of falling in Saudi males with vitamin D deficiency.
23. Dabbour IR, Jazar AS and Azzeh FS (2016). Vitamin D Status in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Makkah Region of Saudi Arabia. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition; 15:203-210. (ISI, No IF).
http://www.pjbs.org/pjnonline/fin3477.pdf
(Clinical Nutrition Department)
ABSTRACT
Deficiency of vitamin D is still a worldwide health problem. Although the sun is replete all over the year in Saudi Arabia, it has been shown that deficiency of vitamin D is an important health problem. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)-D] in type 2 diabetic patients (T2DM) compared to control healthy subjects. A randomized case-control study was conducted and a total of 200 subjects were equally categorized in each group. A detailed basic information questionnaire was used. Serum levels of 25(OH)-D and others related biochemical analysis were also measured. According to our results, there were no significant differences (p>0.05) in age, serum 25(OH)-D level, parathyroid hormone (PTH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and BMI between case and control groups. On the other hand, there was a significant inverse relationship between age and serum 25(OH)-D level (r = -0.37, p<0.05), while a significant positive correlation between serum 25(OH)-D and intakes of vitamin D (r = 0.33, p<0.05) was observed. The mean value of serum 25(OH)-D was significantly higher (p<0.05) for the subjects who regularly played outdoor physical activities than those subjects who did not play regularly. Respect of income, the mean value of serum 25(OH)-D for subjects with low income was significantly (p<0.05) higher than those subjects with high income. Additionally, the mean value of serum 25(OH)-D for subjects who can write and read was significantly (p<0.05) higher than those illiterate subjects and subjects hold a university degree. The mean value of serum 25(OH)-D level for small family size was significantly (p<0.05) higher than those with large family size. The subjects in our study were generally deficient in 25(OH)-D irrespective of having T2DM, indicating a greater need for vitamin D supplementation.
24. Osfor MMH, Ashshi AM, ElSawy NA, Qusty NFH and Alkushi AG (2016). Effect of wheat bran consumption on serum lipid profile of hypercholesterolemia patients residence in holly Makkah. Asian Journal of Natural & Applied Sciences; 5:1-9 (Non-ISI).
http://www.ajsc.leena-luna.co.jp/AJSCPDFs/Vol.5(1)/AJSC2016(5.1-01).pdf
(Clinical Nutrition & Laboratory Medicine Departments)
ABSTRACT
Background: Hypercholesterolemia is a metabolic disorder resembling a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. It is associated with hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes and hypertriglyceredemias. Therefore, it is not surprising that hypercholesterolemia subjects have more susceptibility to sudden death. Dietary intervention is the first-line approach. Increasing dietary fiber has been discussed recommended as a safe and practical approach for cholesterol reduction (Truswell, 2000). Objective: This study was performed to quantify the cholesterol-lowering effect of wheat bran as dietary fibers in hypercholesteremia patients. Design: a study design was conducted and used to test the effect of wheat bran consumption on serum lipid profile. Independent variables were the type and the amount of insoluble fiber, initial cholesterol concentration, and other important study characteristics. Results: Insoluble fiber was associated with slight but significant decreases in serum total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides and total serum cholesterol, (149.67±39.62 to121.89±44.38), (157.89±49.19 to156.67±68.13) and (214.11±43.052 to 193.89 ±42.30) respectively. LDL/HDL and total cholesterol/HDL ratios had been decreased significantly after wheat bran consumption (3.76±1.35 to 3.17±1.62) and (4.85±2.05 to 4.71 ±1.78) respectively. Serum levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) were elevated in respondents following wheat bran consumption for one month ( 42.45±12.47 to 43.22±13.69). Conclusions: wheat bran as dietary fibers can decrease serum levels of total and LDL cholesterol. The positive effect of wheat bran consumption on lipid profile was little within the practical range of intake. Increasing insoluble fiber as dietary therapy can lower blood cholesterol level in patients suffering from hypercholesterolemia
25. Osfor MMH, Ashshi AM, ElSawy NA, Alkushi AG, Qusty NFH, Bakr EH, Hijazi HMH and El-Nabarawy IM (2016). Nutritional and Biochemical Parameters of Honey Contaminated with Insecticide Residues in Male Albino Rats. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition; 15. (ISI, No IF).
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
The effect of insecticides contaminating honey on nutritional and biochemical parameters were investigated in male albino rats. Administration of honey containing malathione and dimethoate at levels of 0.003±0.24 and 0.006±0.02 ppm, respectively, significantly decreased body weight of the animals. These levels also significantly decreased the weight of testis, epididymis and suprarenal gland, while it significantly increased the weight of the parenchymatous organs (heart, liver, kidney and spleen). Serum levels of triglycerides, albumin, total protein, alanine transaminase (ALT), creatinine and bilirubin were significantly increased, while there were non-significant differences in levels of cholesterol, aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (AP), urea and glucose. These results suggest that further studies should be conducted on various nutritional, biochemical, physiological, hormonal and immunological parameters to confirm the adverse impact of insecticide contaminated honey on animals and humans. Moreover, intensive studies are required on the types and levels of honey flavonoids and their impact against harmful action of the insecticides. Additional studies should also be conducted on different vegetables and fruits that could be contaminated with different insecticides and other contaminants.
26. Refaat B, El-Shemi AG, Ashshi AM (2015). The effects of pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin on liver and serum concentrations of activin-A and follistatin in normal Wistar rat: a preliminary report. BMC Res Notes; 8:265. doi: 10.1186/s13104-015-1253-2. (Non-ISI).
http://bmcresnotes.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13104-015-1253-2
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Activin-A and follistatin regulate the liver and the immune system. AIMS: To measure the effects of treatment with pegylated-interferon-α (Peg-IFN-α) and ribavirin on the concentrations of mature activin-A and follistatin in serum and liver tissue homogenates in rats. METHODS: A total of 28 male Wistar rats were divided equally into four groups as follow: 'Control group' (n = 7), 'PEG only group' consisted of those that only received a weekly injection of Peg-IFN-α (6 µg/rat) for 4 weeks, 'RBV only group' received ribavirin only (4 mg/rat/day) orally for 35 days and the last group received both Peg-IFN-α and ribavirin 'PEG & RBV group'. The concentrations of candidate proteins in serum and liver samples were measured using ELISA. RESULTS: Pegylated-interferon-α decreased activin-A and increased follistatin significantly in serum and liver of 'PEG only' and 'PEG & RBV' groups compared with the 'Control' and 'RBV only' groups (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the 'RBV only' and 'Control' groups (P > 0.05) in the concentrations of candidate proteins. A significant positive correlations between serum and liver activin-A (r = 0.727; P = 0.02 × 10(-3)) and follistatin (r = 0.540; P = 0.01) was also detected. CONCLUSION: Pegylated-interferon-α modulates the production of activin-A and follistatin by the liver, which is reflected and can be detected at the serum level. Further studies are needed to explore the role of Peg-IFN-α based therapy on the production of activins and follistatin by the liver and immune cells.
27. Refaat B, El-Shemi AG, Ashshi AM and Azhar E (2015). Vitamin D and chronic hepatitis C: Effects on success rate and prevention of side effects associated with pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin. Int J Clin Exp Med;8(7):10284-10303. (ISI; IF = 1.2).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4565203/
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is one of the most common causes of liver diseases worldwide, affecting 3% of the world population and 3 to 4 million people acquire new infection annually. Despite the recent introduction of novel antiviral drugs for the treatment of CHC, these drugs are expensive and the access to them is not an option for many patients. Hence, the traditional therapy by pegylated interferon-α (Peg-IFN-α) and ribavirin may still have a role in the clinical management of CHC especially in developing countries. However, this standard therapy is associated with several severe extra-hepatic side effects and the most common adverse events are hematological abnormalities and thyroid disorders and they could result in dose reduction and/or termination of therapy. Vitamin D has been shown to be a key regulatory element of the immune system, and its serum concentrations correlate with the severity of liver damage and the development of liver fibrosis/cirrhosis. Furthermore, supplementation with vitamin D with Peg-IFN-α based therapy for the treatment of CHC could be beneficial in increase the response rate to Peg-INF-α based therapy. Vitamin D has also been shown to regulate the thyroid functions and the process of erythropoiesis. This review appraises the data to date researching the role of vitamin D during the treatment of CHC and the potential role of vitamin D in preventing/treating Peg-IFN-α induced thyroiditis and anemia during the course of treatment.
28. Refaat B, El-Shemi AG, Ashshi AM, Mohamadi AE and Al-Qadi NM (2015). Pegylated interferon-α modulates liver concentrations of activin-A and its related proteins in normal Wistar rat. Mediators Inflamm.; 2015:414207. doi: 10.1155/2015/414207. (ISI; IF = 3.23).
http://www.hindawi.com/journals/mi/2015/414207/
(Laboratory Medicine Department)
ABSTRACT
Aims. To measure the expression of activin βA-subunit, activin IIA and IIB receptors, Smad4, Smad7, and follistatin in the liver and the liver and serum concentrations of mature activin-A and follistatin in normal rat following treatment with pegylated interferon-α (Peg-INF-α) and ribavirin (RBV). Materials and Methods. 40 male Wistar rats were divided equally into 4 groups: “control,” “Peg-only” receiving 4 injections of Peg-INF-α(6 µg/rat/week), “RBV-only” receiving ribavirin (4 mg/rat/day) orally, and “Peg & RBV” group receiving both drugs. The expression of candidate molecules in liver was measured by immunohistochemistry and quantitative PCR. The concentrations of mature proteins in serum and liver homogenate samples were measured using ELISA. Results. Peg-INF-α ± RBV altered the expression of all candidate molecules in the liver at the gene and protein levels and decreased activin-A and increased follistatin in serum and liver homogenates compared with the other groups . There were also significant correlations between serum and liver activin-A and follistatin. Conclusion. Peg-INF-α modulates the hepatic production of activin-A and follistatin, which can be detected in serum. Further studies are needed to explore the role of Peg-INF-α on the production of activins and follistatin by the liver and immune cells.
29. Refaat B, El-Shemi AG, Kensara OA, Mohamed AM, Idris S, Ahmad J, Khojah A (2015). Vitamin D3 enhances the tumouricidal effects of 5-Fluorouracil through multipathway mechanisms in azoxymethane rat model of colon cancer. J Exp Clin Cancer Res.; 34:71. doi: 10.1186/s13046-015-0187-9. (ISI; IF = 4.43).
http://jeccr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13046-015-0187-9
(Laboratory Medicine & Clincal Nutrition Departments)
ABSTRACT
Background: Vitamin D3 and its analogues have recently been shown to enhance the anti-tumour effects of 5- Fluorouracil (5-FU) both in vitro and in xenograft mouse model of colon cancer. This study measured the potential mechanism(s) by which vitamin D3 could synergise the tumouricidal activities of 5-FU in azoxymethane (AOM) rat model of colon cancer. Methods: Seventy-five male Wistar rats were divided equally into 5 groups: Control, AOM, AOM-treated by 5-FU (5-FU), AOM-treated by vitamin D3 (VitD3), and AOM-treated by 5-FU + vitamin D3 (5-FU/D). The study duration was 15 weeks. AOM was injected subcutaneously for 2 weeks (15 mg/kg/week). 5-FU was injected intraperitoneally in the 9th and 10th weeks post AOM (8 total injections were given: 12 mg/kg/day for 4 successive days, then 6 mg/kg every other day for another 4 doses) and oral vitamin D3 (500 IU/rat/day; 3 days/week) was given from week 7 post AOM till the last week of the study. The colons were collected following euthanasia for gross and histopathological examination. The expression of β-catenin, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), TGF-β type 2 receptor (TGF-βR2), smad4, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and heat shock protein-90 (HSP-90) proteins was measured by immunohistochemistry. In colonic tissue homogenates, quantitative RT-PCR was used to measure the mRNA expression of Wnt, β-catenin, Dickkopf-1 (DKK-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) genes, while ELISA was used to measure the concentrations of TGF-β1, HSP-90 and COX-2 proteins. Results: Monotherapy with 5-FU or vitamin D3 significantly decreased the number of grown tumours induced by AOM (P < 0.05); however, their combination resulted in more significant tumouricidal effects (P < 0.05) compared with monotherapy groups. Mechanistically, vitamin D3/5-FU co-therapy significantly decreased the expression of Wnt, β-catenin, iNOS, COX-2 and HSP-90 and significantly increased the expression of DKK-1, TGF-β1, TGF-βR2, smad4 (P < 0.05), in comparison with their corresponding monotherapy groups. Conclusions: Vitamin D3 and 5-FU synergise together and exhibit better anticancer effects by modulating Wnt/β-catenin pathway, TGF-β1 signals, iNOS, COX-2 and HSP-90. Further studies are required to illustrate the clinical value of vitamin D supplementation during the treatment of colon cancer with 5-FU in human patients.
