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Mohamed AA, Elmancy LY, Abulola SM, Al-Qattan SA, Mohamed Ibrahim MI, Maayah ZH. Assessment of Native Myocardial T1 Mapping for Early Detection of Anthracycline-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Patients with Cancer: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2024; 24:563-575. [PMID: 38700665 PMCID: PMC11102375 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-024-09866-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Anthracycline antibiotic is one of the most effective anti-tumor drugs used to manage certain types of breast cancers, lymphomas, and leukemias. However, anthracyclines induce a dose-dependent cardiotoxicity that may progress to heart failure. Thus, using a sensitive predictor of early cardiac dysfunction in patients treated with anthracyclines can help detect subclinical cardiac dysfunction early and help initiate interventions to protect these patients. Among parameters of myocardial measure, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)-measured native myocardial T1 mapping is considered a sensitive and accurate quantitative measure of early subclinical cardiac changes, particularly cardiac inflammation and fibrosis. However, to understand the quality and the validity of the current evidence supporting the use of these measures in patients treated with anthracyclines, we aimed to conduct a systematic review of clinical studies of this measure to detect early myocardial changes in cancer patients treated with anthracyclines. The primary outcome was the level of native T1 mapping. We performed fixed-effects meta-analyses and assessed certainty in effect estimates. Of the 1780 publications reviewed (till 2022), 23 were retrieved, and 9 articles met the inclusion criteria. Our study showed that exposure to anthracycline was associated with a significant elevation of native myocardial T1 mapping from baseline (95% CI 0.1121 to 0.5802; p = 0.0037) as well as compared to healthy control patients (95% CI 0.2925 to 0.7448; p < 0.0001). No significant publication bias was noted on the assessment of the funnel plot and Egger's test. According to the Q test, there was no significant heterogeneity in the included studies (I2 = 0.0000% versus healthy controls and I2 = 14.0666% versus baseline). Overall, our study suggests that native myocardial T1 mapping is useful for detecting anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity in patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira A Mohamed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Layla Y Elmancy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sara M Abulola
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sara A Al-Qattan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamed Izham Mohamed Ibrahim
- Clinical Pharmacy and Practice Department, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Zaid H Maayah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Abubakar U, Salman M. Antibiotic Use Among Hospitalized Patients in Africa: A Systematic Review of Point Prevalence Studies. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:1308-1329. [PMID: 37157014 PMCID: PMC10166031 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01610-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is paucity of data describing the rate and quality indices of antibiotics used among hospitalized patients at continental level in Africa. This systematic review evaluated the pooled prevalence, indications, and types of antibiotics used in hospitals across Africa. METHODS Three electronic databases, PubMed, Scopus, and African Journals Online (AJOL), were searched using search terms. Point prevalence studies of antibiotic use in inpatient settings published in English language from January 2010 to November 2022 were considered for selection. Additional articles were identified by checking the reference list of selected articles. RESULTS Of the 7254 articles identified from the databases, 28 eligible articles involving 28 studies were selected. Most of the studies were from Nigeria (n = 9), Ghana (n = 6), and Kenya (n = 4). Overall, the prevalence of antibiotic use among hospitalized patients ranged from 27.6 to 83.5% with higher prevalence in West Africa (51.4-83.5%) and North Africa (79.1%) compared to East Africa (27.6-73.7%) and South Africa (33.6-49.7%). The ICU (64.4-100%; n = 9 studies) and the pediatric medical ward (10.6-94.6%; n = 13 studies) had the highest prevalence of antibiotic use. Community-acquired infections (27.7-61.0%; n = 19 studies) and surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (SAP) (14.6-45.3%; n = 17 studies) were the most common indications for antibiotic use. The duration of SAP was more than 1 day in 66.7 to 100% of the cases. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics included ceftriaxone (7.4-51.7%; n = 14 studies), metronidazole (14.6-44.8%; n = 12 studies), gentamicin (n = 8 studies; range: 6.6-22.3%), and ampicillin (n = 6 studies; range: 6.0-29.2%). The access, watch, and reserved group of antibiotics accounted for 46.3-97.9%, 1.8-53.5%, and 0.0-5.0% of antibiotic prescriptions, respectively. The documentation of the reason for antibiotic prescription and date for stop/review ranged from 37.3 to 100% and 19.6 to 100%, respectively. CONCLUSION The point prevalence of antibiotic use among hospitalized patients in Africa is relatively high and varied between the regions in the continent. The prevalence was higher in the ICU and pediatric medical ward compared to the other wards. Antibiotics were most commonly prescribed for community-acquired infections and for SAP with ceftriaxone, metronidazole, and gentamicin being the most common antibiotics prescribed. Antibiotic stewardship is recommended to address excessive use of SAP and to reduce high rate of antibiotic prescribing in the ICU and pediatric ward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usman Abubakar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
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Nasrallah GK, Chemaitelly H, Ismail AIA, Nizamuddin PB, Al-Sadeq DW, Shurrab FM, Amanullah FH, Al-Hamad TH, Mohammad KN, Alabdulmalek MA, Al Kahlout RA, Al-Shaar I, Elshaikh MA, Abouassali MN, Karimeh IW, Ali MM, Ayoub HH, Abdeen S, Abdelkarim A, Daraan F, Ismail AIHE, Mostafa N, Sahl M, Suliman J, Tayar E, Kasem HA, Agsalog MJA, Akkarathodiyil BK, Alkhalaf AA, Alakshar MMMH, Al-Qahtani AAAH, Al-Shedifat MHA, Ansari A, Ataalla AA, Chougule S, Gopinathan AKKV, Poolakundan FJ, Ranbhise SU, Saefan SMA, Thaivalappil MM, Thoyalil AS, Umar IM, Al Kuwari E, Coyle P, Jeremijenko A, Kaleeckal AH, Abdul Rahim HF, Yassine HM, Al Thani AA, Chaghoury O, Al Kuwari MG, Farag E, Bertollini R, Al Romaihi HE, Al Khal A, Al-Thani MH, Abu-Raddad LJ. Prevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses among migrant workers in Qatar. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11275. [PMID: 38760415 PMCID: PMC11101619 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61725-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Limited data exist on viral hepatitis among migrant populations. This study investigated the prevalence of current hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and lifetime hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among Qatar's migrant craft and manual workers (CMWs), constituting 60% of the country's population. Sera collected during a nationwide COVID-19 population-based cross-sectional survey on CMWs between July 26 and September 9, 2020, underwent testing for HBsAg and HCV antibodies. Reactive samples underwent confirmatory testing, and logistic regression analyses were employed to explore associations with HBV and HCV infections. Among 2528 specimens tested for HBV infection, 15 were reactive, with 8 subsequently confirmed positive. Three samples lacked sufficient sera for confirmatory testing but were included in the analysis through multiple imputations. Prevalence of current HBV infection was 0.4% (95% CI 0.2-0.7%). Educational attainment and occupation were significantly associated with current HBV infection. For HCV infection, out of 2607 specimens tested, 46 were reactive, and 23 were subsequently confirmed positive. Prevalence of lifetime HCV infection was 0.8% (95% CI 0.5-1.2%). Egyptians exhibited the highest prevalence at 6.5% (95% CI 3.1-13.1%), followed by Pakistanis at 3.1% (95% CI 1.1-8.0%). Nationality, geographic location, and occupation were significantly associated with lifetime HCV infection. HBV infection is relatively low among CMWs, while HCV infection falls within the intermediate range, both compared to global and regional levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gheyath K Nasrallah
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, P.O. Box 24144, Doha, Qatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ahmed I A Ismail
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Parveen B Nizamuddin
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Farah M Shurrab
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Fathima H Amanullah
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | - Reham A Al Kahlout
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ibrahim Al-Shaar
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Manal A Elshaikh
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mazen N Abouassali
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ibrahim W Karimeh
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mutaz M Ali
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Houssein H Ayoub
- Mathematics Program, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mohamed Sahl
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Peter Coyle
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queens University, Belfast, UK
| | | | | | - Hanan F Abdul Rahim
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hadi M Yassine
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Asmaa A Al Thani
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, P.O. Box 24144, Doha, Qatar.
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar.
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Al-Jindi L, Al-Sulaiman N, Al-Jayyousi GF. Barriers to seeking tobacco cessation services: a qualitative assessment of university students' needs in Qatar. Health Educ Res 2024; 39:212-227. [PMID: 38324742 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyae006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of tobacco use in the Middle East is alarmingly high, especially among university students; most users initiate tobacco use during adolescence and young adulthood. Evidence-based cessation services can be beneficial when quitting tobacco use; however, these services are underutilized. This study aimed to explore the barriers preventing university students in Qatar from seeking tobacco cessation services. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 Qatar University students who are current or former tobacco users (n = 18/2); most current cigarette smokers were also waterpipe users. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The major barriers to seeking tobacco cessation services included misconceptions regarding nicotine addiction, negative perceptions of the cessation services' effectiveness, self-efficacy regarding the ability to quit without seeking cessation services, concerns and preferences regarding practitioners' characteristics at clinics, masculine culture that discourages men from seeking cessation help, social stigma around women who use tobacco in Arab culture, and a lack of time to visit cessation clinics. Our findings address gaps in the literature regarding the individual and sociocultural barriers to seeking tobacco cessation among youth in Qatar. A better understanding of these barriers can facilitate successful promotion of tobacco cessation services and enhance cessation-seeking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lama Al-Jindi
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Naema Al-Sulaiman
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ghadir Fakhri Al-Jayyousi
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
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Younes S, Nicolai E, Pieri M, Bernardini S, Daas H, Al‐Sadeq D, Younes N, Shurrab F, Nizamuddin P, Humaira F, Al‐Dewik N, Yassine H, Abu‐Raddad L, Ismail A, Nasrallah G. Follow-Up and Comparative Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 IgA, IgG, Neutralizing, and Total Antibody Responses After BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273 Heterologous Booster Vaccination. Influenza Other Respir Viruses 2024; 18:e13290. [PMID: 38706402 PMCID: PMC11070770 DOI: 10.1111/irv.13290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Priming with ChAdOx1 followed by heterologous boosting is considered in several countries. Nevertheless, analyses comparing the immunogenicity of heterologous booster to homologous primary vaccination regimens and natural infection are lacking. In this study, we aimed to conduct a comparative assessment of the immunogenicity between homologous primary vaccination regimens and heterologous prime-boost vaccination using BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273. METHODS We matched vaccinated naïve (VN) individuals (n = 673) with partial vaccination (n = 64), primary vaccination (n = 590), and primary series plus mRNA vaccine heterologous booster (n = 19) with unvaccinated naturally infected (NI) individuals with a documented primary SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 206). We measured the levels of neutralizing total antibodies (NTAbs), total antibodies (TAbs), anti-S-RBD IgG, and anti-S1 IgA titers. RESULTS Homologous primary vaccination with ChAdOx1 not only showed less potent NTAb, TAb, anti-S-RBD IgG, and anti-S1 IgA immune responses compared to primary BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273 vaccination regimens (p < 0.05) but also showed ~3-fold less anti-S1 IgA response compared to infection-induced immunity (p < 0.001). Nevertheless, a heterologous booster led to an increase of ~12 times in the immune response when compared to two consecutive homologous ChAdOx1 immunizations. Furthermore, correlation analyses revealed that both anti-S-RBD IgG and anti-S1 IgA significantly contributed to virus neutralization among NI individuals, particularly in symptomatic and pauci-symptomatic individuals, whereas among VN individuals, anti-S-RBD IgG was the main contributor to virus neutralization. CONCLUSION The results emphasize the potential benefit of using heterologous mRNA boosters to increase antibody levels and neutralizing capacity particularly in patients who received primary vaccination with ChAdOx1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Younes
- Biomedical Sciences Department, College of Health SciencesQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Biomedical Research CenterQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Eleonora Nicolai
- Department of Experimental MedicineUniversity of Rome Tor VergataRomeItaly
| | - Massimo Pieri
- Department of Experimental MedicineUniversity of Rome Tor VergataRomeItaly
- Clinical BiochemistryTor Vergata University HospitalRomeItaly
| | - Sergio Bernardini
- Department of Experimental MedicineUniversity of Rome Tor VergataRomeItaly
- Clinical BiochemistryTor Vergata University HospitalRomeItaly
| | - Hanin I. Daas
- College of Dental Medicine, QU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Duaa W. Al‐Sadeq
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Nadin Younes
- Biomedical Sciences Department, College of Health SciencesQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Biomedical Research CenterQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | | | | | - Fathima Humaira
- Biomedical Sciences Department, College of Health SciencesQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Nader Al‐Dewik
- Department of Research and Translational and Precision Medicine Research Lab, Women's Wellness and Research CenterHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- Genomics and Precision Medicine (GPM), College of Health & Life Science (CHLS)Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU)DohaQatar
| | - Hadi M. Yassine
- Biomedical Sciences Department, College of Health SciencesQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Biomedical Research CenterQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Laith J. Abu‐Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine–QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education CityDohaQatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDS, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral Hepatitis, Weill Cornell Medicine–QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education CityDohaQatar
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkUSA
| | - Ahmed Ismail
- Laboratory Section, Medical Commission DepartmentMinistry of Public HealthDohaQatar
| | - Gheyath K. Nasrallah
- Biomedical Sciences Department, College of Health SciencesQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Biomedical Research CenterQatar UniversityDohaQatar
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Abdelsam SS, Ghanem SK, Zahid MA, Abunada HH, Bader L, Raïq H, Khan A, Parray A, Djouhri L, Agouni A. Human antigen R: Exploring its inflammatory response impact and significance in cardiometabolic disorders. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31229. [PMID: 38426269 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play a crucial role in the regulation of posttranscriptional RNA networks, which can undergo dysregulation in many pathological conditions. Human antigen R (HuR) is a highly researched RBP that plays a crucial role as a posttranscriptional regulator. HuR plays a crucial role in the amplification of inflammatory signals by stabilizing the messenger RNA of diverse inflammatory mediators and key molecular players. The noteworthy correlations between HuR and its target molecules, coupled with the remarkable impacts reported on the pathogenesis and advancement of multiple diseases, position HuR as a promising candidate for therapeutic intervention in diverse inflammatory conditions. This review article examines the significance of HuR as a member of the RBP family, its regulatory mechanisms, and its implications in the pathophysiology of inflammation and cardiometabolic illnesses. Our objective is to illuminate potential directions for future research and drug development by conducting a comprehensive analysis of the existing body of research on HuR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahenda Salah Abdelsam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sarah Khalaf Ghanem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Muhammad Ammar Zahid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hanan H Abunada
- Office of Vice President for Research and Graduate Studies, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Loulia Bader
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hicham Raïq
- Department of Social Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Abbas Khan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aijaz Parray
- The Neuroscience Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Laiche Djouhri
- Department of Basic Medical Science, College of Medicine, QU health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Abdelali Agouni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Office of Vice President for Medical & Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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7
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Lemine AS, Ahmad Z, Al-Thani NJ, Hasan A, Bhadra J. Mechanical properties of human hepatic tissues to develop liver-mimicking phantoms for medical applications. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2024; 23:373-396. [PMID: 38072897 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-023-01785-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Using liver phantoms for mimicking human tissue in clinical training, disease diagnosis, and treatment planning is a common practice. The fabrication material of the liver phantom should exhibit mechanical properties similar to those of the real liver organ in the human body. This tissue-equivalent material is essential for qualitative and quantitative investigation of the liver mechanisms in producing nutrients, excretion of waste metabolites, and tissue deformity at mechanical stimulus. This paper reviews the mechanical properties of human hepatic tissues to develop liver-mimicking phantoms. These properties include viscosity, elasticity, acoustic impedance, sound speed, and attenuation. The advantages and disadvantages of the most common fabrication materials for developing liver tissue-mimicking phantoms are also highlighted. Such phantoms will give a better insight into the real tissue damage during the disease progression and preservation for transplantation. The liver tissue-mimicking phantom will raise the quality assurance of patient diagnostic and treatment precision and offer a definitive clinical trial data collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aicha S Lemine
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QUYSC), Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Zubair Ahmad
- Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QUYSC), Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Center for Advanced Materials (CAM), Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Noora J Al-Thani
- Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QUYSC), Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Anwarul Hasan
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Jolly Bhadra
- Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QUYSC), Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar.
- Center for Advanced Materials (CAM), Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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8
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Pinkeova A, Kosutova N, Jane E, Lorencova L, Bertokova A, Bertok T, Tkac J. Medical Relevance, State-of-the-Art and Perspectives of "Sweet Metacode" in Liquid Biopsy Approaches. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:713. [PMID: 38611626 PMCID: PMC11011756 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14070713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This review briefly introduces readers to an area where glycomics meets modern oncodiagnostics with a focus on the analysis of sialic acid (Neu5Ac)-terminated structures. We present the biochemical perspective of aberrant sialylation during tumourigenesis and its significance, as well as an analytical perspective on the detection of these structures using different approaches for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. We also provide a comparison to other established liquid biopsy approaches, and we mathematically define an early-stage cancer based on the overall prognosis and effect of these approaches on the patient's quality of life. Finally, some barriers including regulations and quality of clinical validations data are discussed, and a perspective and major challenges in this area are summarised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pinkeova
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 38 Bratislava, Slovakia; (A.P.); (N.K.); (E.J.); (L.L.)
- Glycanostics, Ltd., Kudlakova 7, 841 08 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Natalia Kosutova
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 38 Bratislava, Slovakia; (A.P.); (N.K.); (E.J.); (L.L.)
| | - Eduard Jane
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 38 Bratislava, Slovakia; (A.P.); (N.K.); (E.J.); (L.L.)
| | - Lenka Lorencova
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 38 Bratislava, Slovakia; (A.P.); (N.K.); (E.J.); (L.L.)
| | - Aniko Bertokova
- Glycanostics, Ltd., Kudlakova 7, 841 08 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Tomas Bertok
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 38 Bratislava, Slovakia; (A.P.); (N.K.); (E.J.); (L.L.)
| | - Jan Tkac
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 9, 845 38 Bratislava, Slovakia; (A.P.); (N.K.); (E.J.); (L.L.)
- Glycanostics, Ltd., Kudlakova 7, 841 08 Bratislava, Slovakia;
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Rayan M, Sayed TS, Hussein OJ, Therachiyil L, Maayah ZH, Maccalli C, Uddin S, Prehn JHM, Korashy HM. Unlocking the secrets: exploring the influence of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and microbiome on cancer development. Cell Mol Biol Lett 2024; 29:33. [PMID: 38448800 PMCID: PMC10918910 DOI: 10.1186/s11658-024-00538-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota regulates various aspects of human physiology by producing metabolites, metabolizing enzymes, and toxins. Many studies have linked microbiota with human health and altered microbiome configurations with the occurrence of several diseases, including cancer. Accumulating evidence suggests that the microbiome can influence the initiation and progression of several cancers. Moreover, some microbiotas of the gut and oral cavity have been reported to infect tumors, initiate metastasis, and promote the spread of cancer to distant organs, thereby influencing the clinical outcome of cancer patients. The gut microbiome has recently been reported to interact with environmental factors such as diet and exposure to environmental toxicants. Exposure to environmental pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) induces a shift in the gut microbiome metabolic pathways, favoring a proinflammatory microenvironment. In addition, other studies have also correlated cancer incidence with exposure to PAHs. PAHs are known to induce organ carcinogenesis through activating a ligand-activated transcriptional factor termed the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which metabolizes PAHs to highly reactive carcinogenic intermediates. However, the crosstalk between AhR and the microbiome in mediating carcinogenesis is poorly reviewed. This review aims to discuss the role of exposure to environmental pollutants and activation of AhR on microbiome-associated cancer progression and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menatallah Rayan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Tahseen S Sayed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ola J Hussein
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Lubna Therachiyil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Zaid H Maayah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Jochen H M Prehn
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
- RCSI Centre for Systems Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Hesham M Korashy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Kheraldine H, Gupta I, Cyprian FS, Vranic S, Al-Farsi HF, Merhi M, Dermime S, Al Moustafa AE. Targeting HER2-positive breast cancer cells by a combination of dasatinib and BMS-202: Insight into the molecular pathways. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:94. [PMID: 38431613 PMCID: PMC10909263 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03195-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent investigations have reported the benefits of using a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, dasatinib (DA), as well as programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors in the management of several solid tumors, including breast cancer. Nevertheless, the outcome of the combination of these inhibitors on HER2-positive breast cancer is not explored yet. METHODS Herein, we investigated the impact of DA and PD-L1 inhibitor (BMS-202) combination on HER2-positive breast cancer cell lines, SKBR3 and ZR75. RESULTS Our data reveal that the combination significantly inhibits cell viability of both cancer cell lines as compared to monotreatment. Moreover, the combination inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression and reduces cancer cell invasion by restoring E-cadherin and β-catenin expressions and loss of vimentin, major biomarkers of EMT. Additionally, the combination reduces the colony formation of both cell lines in comparison with their matched control. Also, the combination considerably inhibits the angiogenesis of the chorioallantoic membrane model compared with monotreatment. Molecular pathway analysis of treated cells shows that this combination blocks HER2, AKT, β-catenin, and JNK1/2/3 activities. CONCLUSION Our findings implicate that a combination of DA and BMS-202 could have a significant impact on the management of HER2-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadeel Kheraldine
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ishita Gupta
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Farhan Sachal Cyprian
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Semir Vranic
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Halema F Al-Farsi
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Maysaloun Merhi
- National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Interim Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Said Dermime
- National Center for Cancer Care and Research, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Translational Cancer Research Facility, Interim Translational Research Institute, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ala-Eddin Al Moustafa
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
- Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
- Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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11
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Amekyeh H, Sabra R, Billa N. A Window for Enhanced Oral Delivery of Therapeutics via Lipid Nanoparticles. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:613-630. [PMID: 38476206 PMCID: PMC10927375 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s439975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral administration of dosage forms is convenient and beneficial in several respects. Lipid nanoparticulate dosage forms have emerged as a useful carrier system in deploying low solubility drugs systemically, particularly class II, III, and IV drugs of the Biopharmaceutics Classification System. Like other nanoparticulate delivery systems, their low size-to-volume ratio facilitates uptake by phagocytosis. Lipid nanoparticles also provide scope for high drug loading and extended-release capability, ensuring diminished systemic side effects and improved pharmacokinetics. However, rapid gastrointestinal (GI) clearance of particulate delivery systems impedes efficient uptake across the mucosa. Mucoadhesion of dosage forms to the GI mucosa results in longer transit times due to interactions between the former and mucus. Delayed transit times facilitate transfer of the dosage form across the mucosa. In this regard, a balance between mucoadhesion and mucopenetration guarantees optimal systemic transfer. Furthermore, the interplay between GI anatomy and physiology is key to ensuring efficient systemic uptake. This review captures salient anatomical and physiological features of the GI tract and how these can be exploited for maximal systemic delivery of lipid nanoparticles. Materials used to impart mucoadhesion and examples of successful mucoadhesive lipid nanoformulations are highlighted in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilda Amekyeh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Rayan Sabra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
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12
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Nawaz M, Shakoor RA, Al-Qahtani N, Bhadra J, Al-Thani NJ, Kahraman R. Polyolefin-Based Smart Self-Healing Composite Coatings Modified with Calcium Carbonate and Sodium Alginate. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:636. [PMID: 38475319 DOI: 10.3390/polym16050636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Corrosion-related damage incurs significant capital costs in many industries. In this study, an anti-corrosive pigment was synthesized by modifying calcium carbonate with sodium alginate (SA), and smart self-healing coatings were synthesized by reinforcing the anti-corrosive pigments into a polyolefin matrix. Structural changes during the synthesis of the anti-corrosive pigment were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Moreover, thermal gravimetric analysis confirmed the loading of the corrosion inhibitor, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic analysis revealed a stable impedance value, confirming the improved corrosion resistance of the modified polyolefin coatings. The incorporation of the anticorrosive pigment into a polyolefin matrix resulted in improved pore resistance properties and capacitive behavior, indicating a good barrier property of the modified coatings. The formation of a protective film on the steel substrate reflected the adsorption of the corrosion inhibitor (SA) on the steel substrate, which further contributed to enhancing the corrosion resistance of the modified coatings. Moreover, the formation of the protective film was also analyzed by profilometry and elemental mapping analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muddasir Nawaz
- Center for Advanced Materials (CAM), Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Rana Abdul Shakoor
- Center for Advanced Materials (CAM), Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Noora Al-Qahtani
- Center for Advanced Materials (CAM), Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
- Centeral Laboratories Unit, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Jolly Bhadra
- Qatar University Young Scientist Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | | | - Ramazan Kahraman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
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13
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Alkhidir S, El-Akouri K, Al-Dewik N, Khodjet-El-Khil H, Okashah S, Islam N, Ben-Omran T, Al-Shafai M. The genetic basis and the diagnostic yield of genetic testing related to nonsyndromic hearing loss in Qatar. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4202. [PMID: 38378725 PMCID: PMC10879212 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52784-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Hearing loss is the most predominant sensory defect occurring in pediatrics, of which, 66% cases are attributed to genetic factors. The prevalence of hereditary hearing loss increases in consanguineous populations, and the prevalence of hearing loss in Qatar is 5.2%. We aimed to investigate the genetic basis of nonsyndromic hearing loss (NSHL) in Qatar and to evaluate the diagnostic yield of different genetic tests available. A retrospective chart review was conducted for 59 pediatric patients with NSHL referred to the Department of Adult and Pediatric Medical Genetics at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar, and who underwent at least one genetic test. Out of the 59 patients, 39 were solved cases due to 19 variants in 11 genes and two copy number variants that explained the NSHL phenotype. Of them 2 cases were initially uncertain and were reclassified using familial segregation. Around 36.8% of the single variants were in GJB2 gene and c.35delG was the most common recurrent variant seen in solved cases. We detected the c.283C > T variant in FGF3 that was seen in a Qatari patient and found to be associated with NSHL for the first time. The overall diagnostic yield was 30.7%, and the diagnostic yield was significantly associated with genetic testing using GJB2 sequencing and using the hearing loss (HL) gene panel. The diagnostic yield for targeted familial testing was 60% (n = 3 patients) and for gene panel was 50% (n = 5). Thus, we recommend using GJB2 gene sequencing as a first-tier genetic test and HL gene panel as a second-tier genetic test for NSHL. Our work provided new insights into the genetic pool of NSHL among Arabs and highlights its unique diversity, this is believed to help further in the diagnostic and management options for NSHL Arab patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaza Alkhidir
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Adult and Pediatric Medical Genetics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Karen El-Akouri
- Department of Adult and Pediatric Medical Genetics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Division of Genetic and Genomic Medicine, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nader Al-Dewik
- Department of Adult and Pediatric Medical Genetics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Houssein Khodjet-El-Khil
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sarah Okashah
- Department of Adult and Pediatric Medical Genetics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nazmul Islam
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tawfeg Ben-Omran
- Department of Adult and Pediatric Medical Genetics, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
- Division of Genetic and Genomic Medicine, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Mashael Al-Shafai
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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14
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Shabil Sha M, Anwar H, Musthafa FN, Al-Lohedan H, Alfarwati S, Rajabathar JR, Khalid Alahmad J, Cabibihan JJ, Karnan M, Kumar Sadasivuni K. Photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes using reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Sci Rep 2024; 14:3608. [PMID: 38351100 PMCID: PMC10864344 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53626-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Photocatalysts have developed into a successful strategy for degrading synthetic and organic toxins, such as chemicals and dyes, in wastewater. In this study, graphene oxide was reduced at different temperatures and used for degrading indigo carmine and neutral red dyes. The wide surface areas, strong adsorption sites, and oxygen functionalities of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) at 250 °C (rGO-250) produced more photocatalytic degradation efficiency and adsorption percentage. The catalyst dosage, initial dye concentration, solution pH and recyclability were all used to optimize the photocatalytic activity of rGO-250. This research presents a capable nano-adsorbent photocatalyst for the efficient degradation of organic dyes. GO and rGOs were also investigated for carbon dioxide (CO2) absorption properties. Results showed that rGO-250 has better CO2 adsorption properties than other rGOs. Overall, it was observed that rGO-250 has better photocatalytic and CO2 adsorption capabilities compared to graphene oxide reduced at different temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mizaj Shabil Sha
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hayarunnisa Anwar
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Farzana N Musthafa
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hamad Al-Lohedan
- Chemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box. 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarya Alfarwati
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Jothi Ramalingam Rajabathar
- Chemistry Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box. 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| | | | - John-John Cabibihan
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, P.O. Box. 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Muthusamy Karnan
- Grassland and Forage Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, South Korea
| | - Kishor Kumar Sadasivuni
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, P.O. Box. 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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15
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Krishna A, Abdelaziz AF, Khattab T. Modeling of electromagnetic propagation inside jet engine environment using statistical electromagnetic approach. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3575. [PMID: 38347063 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53529-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In this paper, the distribution of the electromagnetic field inside a complex jet engine environment is analyzed using statistical electromagnetics. The jet engine environment is an extremely complex geometry and exhibits random behavior due to the presence of moving metallic parts. This renders traditional analytical and simulation modeling techniques highly inefficient. To address this issue, two different approaches are proposed to model the propagation characteristics of the jet engine environment. The first is an innovative dynamic system approach based on dynamic system simulation which is inspired by the analysis of mechanically stirred reverberation chambers. In the dynamic system simulation the dynamic system, which is characterized by the rotation of a distinct set of blades, is primarily studied through the simulation program. A dimension scaling method is also introduced along with the dynamic system simulation to solve the complex jet engine environment. In the second approach, a novel statistical excitation method is applied to develop an equivalent model for the dynamic jet engine system. The studied jet engine is considered as a static jet engine system without blade rotation (static blades), but with a random excitation.A small signal analysis method is used to integrate the static and dynamic system parameters to generate random excitation characteristics of the static system. The extracted electric field values from the dynamic jet engine simulation environment and the static system field values from the small signal analysis have been analyzed statistically to prove the statistical equality between the two systems. The numerical results of the static system model are presented and verified through comparison with finite element method simulation packages.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Krishna
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - A F Abdelaziz
- Department of Electrical and Communication Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - T Khattab
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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16
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Lecart M, Dobbelaere T, Alaerts L, Randresihaja NR, Mohammed AV, Vethamony P, Hanert E. Land reclamation and its consequences: A 40-year analysis of water residence time in Doha Bay, Qatar. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296715. [PMID: 38295030 PMCID: PMC10829981 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Qatar's rapid industrialization, notably in its capital city Doha, has spurred a surge in land reclamation projects, leading to a constriction of the entrance to Doha Bay. By reducing and deflecting the ocean circulation, land reclamation projects have reduced the effective dispersion of wastewater introduced into the bay and hence degraded the water quality. Here, we assess fluctuations in water residence time across three distinct eras (1980, 2000, and 2020) to gauge the impact of successive land reclamation developments. To do this, we couple the multi-scale ocean model SLIM with a Lagrangian model for water residence time within Doha's coastal area. We consider three different topographies of Doha's shoreline to identify which artificial structures contributed the most to increase water residence time. Our findings reveal that the residual ocean circulation in Doha Bay was predominantly impacted by northern developments post-2000. Between 1980 and 2000, the bay's residence time saw a modest rise, of about one day on average. However, this was followed by a substantial surge, of three to six days on average, between 2000 and 2020, which is mostly attributable to The Pearl mega artificial island development. Certain regions of the bay witnessed a tripling of water residence time. Given the ongoing population expansion along the coast, it is anticipated that the growth of artificial structures and coastal reclamation will persist, thereby exacerbating the accumulation of pollutants in the bay. Our findings suggest that artificial offshore structures can exert far-reaching, non-local impacts on water quality, which need to be properly assessed during the planning stages of such developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Lecart
- Earth and Life Institute (ELI), UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Thomas Dobbelaere
- Earth and Life Institute (ELI), UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Lauranne Alaerts
- Earth and Life Institute (ELI), UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Department of Astrophysics, Geophysics and Oceanography (AGO), ULiège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Ny Riana Randresihaja
- Earth and Life Institute (ELI), UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Department of Astrophysics, Geophysics and Oceanography (AGO), ULiège, Liège, Belgium
| | | | | | - Emmanuel Hanert
- Earth and Life Institute (ELI), UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Institute of Mechanics, Materials and Civil Engineering (IMMC), UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
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17
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Fahim A, Sadaf A, Jafari FH, Siddique K, Sethi A. Questionable research practices of medical and dental faculty in Pakistan - a confession. BMC Med Ethics 2024; 25:11. [PMID: 38297258 PMCID: PMC10829322 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-024-01004-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Intellectual honesty and integrity are the cornerstones of conducting any form of research. Over the last few years, scholars have shown great concerns over questionable research practices (QRPs) in academia. This study aims to investigate the questionable research practices amongst faculty members of medical and dental colleges in Pakistan. METHOD A descriptive multi-institutional online survey was conducted from June-August 2022. Based on previous studies assessing research misconduct, 43 questionable research practices in four domains: Data collection & storage, Data analysis, Study reporting and Collaboration & authorship were identified and investigated. Descriptive (Frequencies, Percentages, Mean, SD) and Inferential (chi square) statistics were calculated. RESULTS A total of 654 faculty members responded. Every respondent reported committing at least one QRP in their career. The most common QRPs included deliberately failing to mention funding, publishing program evaluation data not meant for research purposes or approved by an ethical body, inappropriately storing identifiable information and non-disclosure of any conflicts. There was significant association of age, gender and academic rank with QRPs in 'Data collection and storage' and 'Data Analysis' domains. CONCLUSION Medical and dental faculty members participating in this study are involved in a range of questionable research practices (QRPs) in Pakistan. Their confession might have contributed to the faculty developing self-awareness and reinforcing academic integrity. There is a need for reviewing policies and practices to improve research culture. Future research should explore the factors resulting in such practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Fahim
- University College of Dentistry, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Aysha Sadaf
- Shifa College of Dentistry, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Kashif Siddique
- University College of Dentistry, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
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18
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Zafar A, Khan MJ, Abu J, Naeem A. Revolutionizing cancer care strategies: immunotherapy, gene therapy, and molecular targeted therapy. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:219. [PMID: 38281269 PMCID: PMC10822809 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09096-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Despite the availability of technological advances in traditional anti-cancer therapies, there is a need for more precise and targeted cancer treatment strategies. The wide-ranging shortfalls of conventional anticancer therapies such as systematic toxicity, compromised life quality, and limited to severe side effects are major areas of concern of conventional cancer treatment approaches. Owing to the expansion of knowledge and technological advancements in the field of cancer biology, more innovative and safe anti-cancerous approaches such as immune therapy, gene therapy and targeted therapy are rapidly evolving with the aim to address the limitations of conventional therapies. The concept of immunotherapy began with the capability of coley toxins to stimulate toll-like receptors of immune cells to provoke an immune response against cancers. With an in-depth understating of the molecular mechanisms of carcinogenesis and their relationship to disease prognosis, molecular targeted therapy approaches, that inhibit or stimulate specific cancer-promoting or cancer-inhibitory molecules respectively, have offered promising outcomes. In this review, we evaluate the achievement and challenges of these technically advanced therapies with the aim of presenting the overall progress and perspective of each approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aasma Zafar
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan
| | | | - Junaid Abu
- Hazm Mebaireek General Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aisha Naeem
- Qatar University Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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19
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Thalayappil S, Mullungal MN, Peediyakkathodi S, C S RK, Panikkaveettil R, P M S, C H S. Composition and vertical distribution of organic matter in Central Indian Ocean sediment cores. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2157. [PMID: 38272910 PMCID: PMC10810914 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49116-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the quality and quantity of organic matter (OM) using biochemical components (protein, carbohydrate and lipids) in the sediment cores collected from the Central Indian Ocean (CIOB) under the program Equatorial Indian Ocean Process Study Dynamics and Biogeochemistry (EIOPS). Total organic carbon (TOC) and biochemical parameters (carbohydrate, lipid, protein, Tannin and lignin) were determined in core I and core II, respectively. Total carbohydrates varied from 4.66 to 2557.32 mg/kg (average 459.31 mg/kg) and 142.23 to 821.56 mg/kg (average 380.01 mg/kg) in core I and II, respectively. In core I, PRT varied from 70.95 to 107.05 mg/kg, and the minimum and maximum content of CHO was 143.23 and 822.56 mg/kg. The maximum and minimum concentrations of BPC in core II were 786.32 and 381.07 at 0-10 cm depth, respectively, which corresponded to the concentrations of PRT, CHO, LPD, and Tannin. The results showed that PRT was statistically significant with the TOC and negatively correlated with the LPD and CHO, while LPD was highly significant with clay and silt grains. In most of the samples, the ratio of LPD to CHO ratio was > 1, which indicated higher productivity of benthic organisms inhabiting the CIOB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sruthi Thalayappil
- Department of Chemical Oceanography, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, 682016, India
- Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies, Panangad, Kerala, India
| | - Muhammed Nayeem Mullungal
- Environmental Sciences Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Science, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Sajna Peediyakkathodi
- School of Environmental Studies, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, 682022, India
| | - Ratheesh Kumar C S
- School of Environmental Studies, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, 682022, India
| | | | - Salas P M
- Department of Chemical Oceanography, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, 682016, India
| | - Sujatha C H
- Department of Chemical Oceanography, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, Kerala, 682016, India
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20
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Lorencova L, Kasak P, Kosutova N, Jerigova M, Noskovicova E, Vikartovska A, Barath M, Farkas P, Tkac J. MXene-based electrochemical devices applied for healthcare applications. Mikrochim Acta 2024; 191:88. [PMID: 38206460 PMCID: PMC10784403 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-023-06163-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The initial part of the review provides an extensive overview about MXenes as novel and exciting 2D nanomaterials describing their basic physico-chemical features, methods of their synthesis, and possible interfacial modifications and techniques, which could be applied to the characterization of MXenes. Unique physico-chemical parameters of MXenes make them attractive for many practical applications, which are shortly discussed. Use of MXenes for healthcare applications is a hot scientific discipline which is discussed in detail. The article focuses on determination of low molecular weight analytes (metabolites), high molecular weight analytes (DNA/RNA and proteins), or even cells, exosomes, and viruses detected using electrochemical sensors and biosensors. Separate chapters are provided to show the potential of MXene-based devices for determination of cancer biomarkers and as wearable sensors and biosensors for monitoring of a wide range of human activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Lorencova
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 5807/9, 845 38, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Peter Kasak
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Natalia Kosutova
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 5807/9, 845 38, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Monika Jerigova
- International Laser Center, Slovak Center of Scientific and Technical Information, Ilkovicova 3, 841 04, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
- Department of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Ilkovicova 6, Mlynska Dolina, 842 15, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Eva Noskovicova
- International Laser Center, Slovak Center of Scientific and Technical Information, Ilkovicova 3, 841 04, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
- Department of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Ilkovicova 6, Mlynska Dolina, 842 15, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Alica Vikartovska
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 5807/9, 845 38, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Marek Barath
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 5807/9, 845 38, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Pavol Farkas
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 5807/9, 845 38, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Jan Tkac
- Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dubravska cesta 5807/9, 845 38, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
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21
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Raheel MFS, Snoubar Y, Mosbah WS. Being female with vitiligo disease in traditional societies within North Africa. Biopsychosoc Med 2024; 18:1. [PMID: 38200533 PMCID: PMC10777494 DOI: 10.1186/s13030-024-00299-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aims to assess the influence of vitiligo illness on the quality of life of female individuals residing in Ajdabiya, Libya. Through this investigation, we aim to enhance our comprehension of the potential impact of cultural norms and conventional gender roles on managing and caring for skin disorders within a North African society. Over a 20-week period, 65 female participants diagnosed with vitiligo were recruited. The participants' quality of life was assessed using the Skindex-16 scale. This validated tool measures the impact of skin disease on several aspects of an individual's life, including physical, emotional, and social well-being. The findings of this study indicate that the quality of life of women with vitiligo significantly differed with age, social and functional status, and economic status. However, the illness profoundly impacted patients' lives emotionally, with clear consequences, including diminished emotional satisfaction and reduced social participation. The results of this study highlight the negative effects that vitiligo disease can have on women's quality of life within traditional Libyan society. This investigation also indicates that cultural norms and traditional gender patterns may contribute to these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yaser Snoubar
- Department of Social Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, 2713, Qatar.
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22
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Nahas LD, Datta A, Alsamman AM, Adly MH, Al-Dewik N, Sekaran K, Sasikumar K, Verma K, Doss GPC, Zayed H. Genomic insights and advanced machine learning: characterizing autism spectrum disorder biomarkers and genetic interactions. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 39:29-42. [PMID: 38153584 PMCID: PMC10799794 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-023-01322-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by altered brain connectivity and function. In this study, we employed advanced bioinformatics and explainable AI to analyze gene expression associated with ASD, using data from five GEO datasets. Among 351 neurotypical controls and 358 individuals with autism, we identified 3,339 Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) with an adjusted p-value (≤ 0.05). A subsequent meta-analysis pinpointed 342 DEGs (adjusted p-value ≤ 0.001), including 19 upregulated and 10 down-regulated genes across all datasets. Shared genes, pathogenic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), chromosomal positions, and their impact on biological pathways were examined. We identified potential biomarkers (HOXB3, NR2F2, MAPK8IP3, PIGT, SEMA4D, and SSH1) through text mining, meriting further investigation. Additionally, we shed light on the roles of RPS4Y1 and KDM5D genes in neurogenesis and neurodevelopment. Our analysis detected 1,286 SNPs linked to ASD-related conditions, of which 14 high-risk SNPs were located on chromosomes 10 and X. We highlighted potential missense SNPs associated with FGFR inhibitors, suggesting that it may serve as a promising biomarker for responsiveness to targeted therapies. Our explainable AI model identified the MID2 gene as a potential ASD biomarker. This research unveils vital genes and potential biomarkers, providing a foundation for novel gene discovery in complex diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ankur Datta
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Alsamman M Alsamman
- Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute (AGERI), Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Giza, Egypt
| | - Monica H Adly
- Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute (AGERI), Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Giza, Egypt
| | - Nader Al-Dewik
- Department of Research, Women's Wellness and Research Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Karthik Sekaran
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
- Center for Brain Research, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, India
| | - K Sasikumar
- Department of Sensor and Biomedical Technology, School of Electronics Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kanika Verma
- Department of parasitology and host biology ICMR-NIMR, Dwarka, Delhi, India
| | - George Priya C Doss
- Laboratory of Integrative Genomics, Department of Integrative Biology, School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Hatem Zayed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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23
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Almuraikhy S, Doudin A, Domling A, Althani AAJF, Elrayess MA. Molecular regulators of exercise-mediated insulin sensitivity in non-obese individuals. J Cell Mol Med 2024; 28:e18015. [PMID: 37938877 PMCID: PMC10805515 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.18015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin resistance is a significant contributor to the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and is associated with obesity, physical inactivity, and low maximal oxygen uptake. While intense and prolonged exercise may have negative effects, physical activity can have a positive influence on cellular metabolism and the immune system. Moderate exercise has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and improve antioxidant status, whereas intense exercise can increase oxidative stress in the short term. The impact of exercise on pro-inflammatory cytokine production is complex and varies depending on intensity and duration. Exercise can also counteract the harmful effects of ageing and inflamm-ageing. This review aims to examine the molecular pathways altered by exercise in non-obese individuals at higher risk of developing T2D, including glucose utilization, lipid metabolism, mitochondrial function, inflammation and oxidative stress, with the potential to improve insulin sensitivity. The focus is on understanding the potential benefits of exercise for improving insulin sensitivity and providing insights for future targeted interventions before onset of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamma Almuraikhy
- Biomedical Research CenterQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, Drug DesignGroningen UniversityGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Asmaa Doudin
- Biomedical Research CenterQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Alexander Domling
- Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, Drug DesignGroningen UniversityGroningenThe Netherlands
| | - Asmaa Ali J. F. Althani
- Biomedical Research CenterQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Science, QU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Mohamed A. Elrayess
- Biomedical Research CenterQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- College of Pharmacy, QU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
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24
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Akbari Y, Al-Binali A, Al-Mohannadi A, Al-Hemaidi N, Elharrouss O, Al-Maadeed S. A New Framework for Smart Doors Using mmWave Radar and Camera-Based Face Detection and Recognition Techniques. Sensors (Basel) 2023; 24:172. [PMID: 38203032 PMCID: PMC10781323 DOI: 10.3390/s24010172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
By integrating IoT technology, smart door locks can provide greater convenience, security, and remote access. This paper presents a novel framework for smart doors that combines face detection and recognition techniques based on mmWave radar and camera sensors. The proposed framework aims to improve the accuracy and some security aspects arising from some limitations of the camera, such as overlapping and lighting conditions. By integrating mmWave radar and camera-based face detection and recognition algorithms, the system can accurately detect and identify people approaching the door, providing seamless and secure access. This framework includes four key components: person detection based on mmWave radar, camera preparation and integration, person identification, and door lock control. The experiments show that the framework can be useful for a smart home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younes Akbari
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (A.A.-B.); (A.A.-M.); (N.A.-H.); (O.E.); (S.A.-M.)
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25
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Aboujassoum HM, Mohamed-Ali V, Abraham D, Clapp LH, Al-Naemi HA. Relative Recovery of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in Diet-Induced Obese Rats. Nutrients 2023; 16:115. [PMID: 38201945 PMCID: PMC10780646 DOI: 10.3390/nu16010115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Consumption of a high-carbohydrate diet has a critical role in the induction of weight gain and obesity-related pathologies. This study tested the hypothesis that a carbohydrate-rich diet induces weight gain, ectopic fat deposition, associated metabolic risks and development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which are partially reversible following carbohydrate reduction. Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were fed a carbohydrate-enriched cafeteria diet (CAF) or normal chow (NC) ad libitum for 16-18 weeks. In the reversible group (REV), the CAF was replaced with NC for a further 3 weeks (18-21 weeks). Animals fed the CAF diet showed significantly increased body weight compared to those fed NC, accompanied by abnormal changes in their systemic insulin and triglycerides, elevation of hepatic triglyceride and hepatic steatosis. In the REV group, when the CAF diet was stopped, a modest, non-significant weight loss was associated with improvement in systemic insulin and appearance of the liver, with lower gross fatty deposits and hepatic triglyceride. In conclusion, a carbohydrate-enriched diet led to many features of metabolic syndrome, including hyperinsulinemia, while a dietary reduction in this macronutrient, even for a short period, was able to restore normoinsulinemia, and reversed some of the obesity-related hepatic abnormalities, without significant weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vidya Mohamed-Ali
- Anti-Doping Laboratory Qatar, Sports City Road, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar;
- Centre of Metabolism and Inflammation, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College London, Rowland Hill Street, London NW3 2PF, UK
| | - David Abraham
- Centre of Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Disorders, Division of Medicine, Royal Free Campus, University College London, Rowland Hill Street, London NW3 2PF, UK;
| | - Lucie H. Clapp
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, Rayne Building, 5 University Street, London WC1E 6JF, UK;
| | - Hamda A. Al-Naemi
- Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar;
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
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26
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Sami W, Ahmad MS, Shaik RA, Miraj M, Ahmad S, Molla MH. Oral Health Statuses of Children and Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Umbrella Review. J Clin Med 2023; 13:59. [PMID: 38202066 PMCID: PMC10780292 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the oral health statuses of children and adults within the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) population through an umbrella review approach. The prevalence of dental caries, periodontal disease, and associated variables were investigated across selected studies. A systematic search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Science Citation Index, Science Direct, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and Wiley Online Library to identify relevant studies. The assessed variables included dental caries prevalence, periodontal disease prevalence, oral hygiene indicators, and the necessity of dental treatment. The pooled prevalence rates, odds ratios, and standardized mean differences were calculated where applicable. The pooled prevalence of dental caries among ASD individuals ranged from 60.6% to 67.3%, while the periodontal disease prevalence ranged from 59.8% to 69.4%. High rates of dental treatment under general anesthesia were reported. Heterogeneous dental caries and periodontal disease prevalence rates were identified, highlighting the need for collaboration and preventive care. Several studies also reported higher prevalence rates of dental trauma and self-inflicted oral injuries among individuals with ASD. However, the review also identified significant methodological limitations in the included studies, including inconsistency in oral health assessment methods and potential bias. The necessity for targeted policies due to high prevalence rates and the requirement for integrated care systems in high DMFT regions were also observed. The umbrella review synthesized diverse findings, revealing variations in dental caries and periodontal disease prevalence among ASD individuals. This review underscores the need for tailored interventions and policies to address oral health disparities. It highlights the necessity of integrated care systems, methodological improvements, and longitudinal studies to comprehensively address the multifaceted oral health challenges within the ASD population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqas Sami
- Department of Pre-Clinical Affairs, College of Nursing, QU-Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar;
| | - Mohammad Shakil Ahmad
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Majmaah University, Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia; (M.S.A.); (R.A.S.)
| | - Riyaz Ahamed Shaik
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Majmaah University, Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia; (M.S.A.); (R.A.S.)
| | - Mohammad Miraj
- Department of Physical Therapy and Health Rehabilitation, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Majmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sadiya Ahmad
- Department of Psychology, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON N9B 3P4, Canada;
| | - Muhammed Hamza Molla
- College of Dental Medicine, QU-Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
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27
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Nazar Z, Al Hail M, Al-Shaibi S, Hussain TA, Abdelkader NN, Pallivalapila A, Thomas B, Kassem WE, Hanssens Y, Mahfouz A, Ryan C, Stewart D. Investigating physicians' views on non-formulary prescribing: a qualitative study using the theoretical domains framework. Int J Clin Pharm 2023; 45:1424-1433. [PMID: 37454024 PMCID: PMC10682051 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-023-01616-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Well-designed and well-maintained drug formularies serve as a reliable resource to guide prescribing decisions; they are associated with improved medicine safety and increased efficiency, while also serving as a cost-effective tool to help manage and predict medicine expenditure. Multiple studies have investigated the inappropriate prescribing of non-formulary drugs (NFDs) with statistics indicating that up to 70% of NFD usage being inappropriate or not following the ascribed NFD policies. AIM To explore physicians' views and influences on their prescribing of non-formulary drugs. METHOD Data collection and analysis were underpinned using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Thirteen semi-structured interviews were conducted within Hamad Medical Corporation, the main provider of secondary and tertiary healthcare in Qatar, with physicians who had submitted a NFD request in the preceding 12 months. RESULTS Three overarching themes were identified: providing evidence-based care for individual patients; influences of others; and formulary management issues. Subthemes were mapped to specific TDF domains: environmental context and resources; social influences; professional role and identity; beliefs about consequences; goals; intentions. CONCLUSION The behavioral influences identified in this study can be mapped to behavior change strategies facilitating the development of an intervention to promote appropriate prescribing of NFDs with implications for medicine safety and healthcare efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachariah Nazar
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Moza Al Hail
- Women's Wellness and Research Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Samaher Al-Shaibi
- Pharmacy department, Mohammed Al-Mana College for Medical Sciences, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | - Binny Thomas
- Women's Wellness and Research Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Wessam El Kassem
- Women's Wellness and Research Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Yolande Hanssens
- Women's Wellness and Research Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Cristin Ryan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Derek Stewart
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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28
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Mahenthiran AV, Jawad ZA, Chin BLF. Development of blend PEG-PES/NMP-DMF mixed matrix membrane for CO 2/N 2 separation. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023; 30:124654-124676. [PMID: 35655021 PMCID: PMC10754754 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20168-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The carbon dioxide (CO2) separation technology has become a focus recently, and a developed example is the membrane technology. It is an alternative form of enhanced gas separation performance above the Robeson upper bound line resulting in the idea of mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). With attention given to membrane technologies, the MMMs were fabricated to have the most desirable gas separation performance. In this work, blend MMMs were synthesised by using two polymers, namely, poly(ether sulfone) (PES) and poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG). These polymers were dissolved in blend N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) and dimethylformamide (DMF) solvents with the functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs-F) fillers by using the mixing solution method. The embedding of the pristine MWCNTs and MWCNTs-F within the new synthesised MMM was then studied towards CO2/N2 separation. In addition, the optimisation of the loading of MWCNTs-F for blend MMM for CO2/N2 separation was also studied. The experimental results showed that the functionalised MWCNTs (MWCNTs-F) were a better choice at enhancing gas separation compared to the pristine MWCNTs (MWCNTs-P). Additionally, the effects of MWCNTs-F at loadings 0.01 to 0.05% were studied along with the polymer compositions for PES:PEG of 10:20, 20:20 and 30:10. Both these parameters of study affect the manner of gas separation performance in the blend MMMs. Overall, the best performing membrane showed a selectivity value of 1.01 + 0.05 for a blend MMM (MMM-0.03F) fabricated with 20 wt% of PES, 20 wt% of PEG and 0.03 wt% of MWCNTs-F. The MMM-0.03F was able to withstand a pressure of 2 bar, illustrating its mechanical strength and ability to be used in the post combustion carbon capture application industries where the flue gas pressure is at 1.01 bar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashvin Viknesh Mahenthiran
- Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, 250 CDT, 98009, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Zeinab Abbas Jawad
- Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Bridgid Lai Fui Chin
- Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, 250 CDT, 98009, Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
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El-Shafie AS, Karamshahi F, El-Azazy M. Turning waste avocado stones and montmorillonite into magnetite-supported nanocomposites for the depollution of methylene blue: adsorbent reusability and performance optimization. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023; 30:118764-118781. [PMID: 37919500 PMCID: PMC10698139 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30538-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
The existence of methylene blue (MB) in wastewater even as traces is raising environmental concerns. In this regard, the performances of four adsorbents, avocado stone biochar (AVS-BC), montmorillonite (MMT), and their magnetite Fe3O4-derived counterparts, were compared. Results showed the superior performance of Fe3O4@AVS-BC and Fe3O4@MMT nanocomposites with removal percentages (%R) of 95.59% and 88%. The morphological features of AVS-BC as revealed by SEM analysis showed a highly porous surface compared to a plane and smooth surface in the case of MMT. Surface analysis using FT-IR and Raman spectroscopies corroborated the existence of the Fe-O peaks upon loading with magnetite. The XRD analysis confirmed the formation of cubic magnetite nanoparticles. The adsorption process in the batch mode was optimized using central composite design (CCD). Equilibrium and kinetic isotherms showed that the adsorption of MB onto Fe3O4@AVS-BC fitted well with the Langmuir isotherm and the pseudo-second-order (PSO) model. The maximum adsorption capacity (qm) was 118.9 mg/g (Fe3O4@AVS-BC) and 72.39 mg/g (Fe3O4@MMT). The Fe3O4@AVS-BC showed a higher selectivity toward MB compared to other organic contaminants. The MB-laden adsorbent was successfully used for the remediation of Cr (III), Ni (II), and Cd (II) with removal efficiencies hitting 100% following thermal activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed S El-Shafie
- Department of Chemistry and Earth Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, 2713, Qatar
| | - Fatima Karamshahi
- Department of Chemistry and Earth Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, 2713, Qatar
| | - Marwa El-Azazy
- Department of Chemistry and Earth Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, 2713, Qatar.
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Nazzal H, Baccar M, Ziad T, Al-Musfir T, Al Emadi B, Matoug-Elwerfelli M, Narasimhan S, Khan Y, Reagu S. Prevalence of anxiety, sleep bruxism and temporomandibular disorders during COVID-19 in Qatari children and adolescents: a cross-sectional study. Eur Arch Paediatr Dent 2023; 24:787-795. [PMID: 37848680 PMCID: PMC10657298 DOI: 10.1007/s40368-023-00847-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Understanding the impact of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic social restrictions on the lives of children and adolescents is of utmost importance to enable timely diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of anxiety, sleep bruxism, temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and change in dietary and brushing habits and their association with COVID-19 social restrictions. METHODS Parents of fit and healthy Qatari children and adolescents were recruited and interviewed by the research team, whereby validated questioners were used to assess the prevalence of children's/adolescents' anxiety, sleep bruxism and TMD. Furthermore, changes in dietary and brushing habits were also evaluated. RESULTS A total of 199 parents of children and adolescents (mean age = 9.3 ± 3.2 years old) were included. Overall anxiety symptoms, sleep bruxism and TMD were evident in 29.6%, 5.7% and 23.1%, respectively. An increased consumption of food, sweets and worsening of brushing habits were evident in 51.8%, 62.8% and 31.2%, respectively. CONCLUSION Within the limitations of this study, pandemic-related social restrictions could result in elevated levels of anxiety, specifically, social phobia, amongst children and adolescents, which could inevitably lead to unwanted dental consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Nazzal
- Hamad Dental Centre, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- College of Dental Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - M Baccar
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - T Ziad
- Hamad Dental Centre, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- NYU Langone Dental Medicine, Advanced Education in Pediatric Dentistry, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- Pediatric Dental Services, Sun Life Health, Casa Grande, Arizona, USA
| | - T Al-Musfir
- Hamad Dental Centre, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - B Al Emadi
- Hamad Dental Centre, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - S Narasimhan
- Hamad Dental Centre, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Y Khan
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - S Reagu
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar
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Alalawneh M, Rachid O, Abdallah I, Mahfouz A, Elewa H, Danjuma MIM, Mohamed AE, Awaisu A. Trends in prescribing and outcomes in obese versus non-obese patients receiving rivaroxaban therapy: an observational study using real-world data. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2023; 79:1675-1685. [PMID: 37816816 PMCID: PMC10663176 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-023-03572-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate real-world prescribing trends and clinical outcomes based on body mass index (BMI) categorization in patients who received rivaroxaban therapy. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study involving all patients who received rivaroxaban therapy across all Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) hospitals from 2015 to 2020. RESULTS The number of patients initiated on rivaroxaban therapy significantly increased from 152 (3.3%) in 2015 to 1342 (28.9%) in 2020 (p <0.001). Within BMI categories, a similar increasing trend was observed in underweight, normal, and overweight patients, while from 2018 to 2020, there was a decreasing trend in rivaroxaban prescribing in all obese classes. The prevalence rate of all-cause mortality differed significantly between the BMI groups, with the highest mortality being among morbidly obese patients (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2) (p< 0.001). On the other hand, no significant differences were found between the BMI groups in terms of bleeding, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis and stroke incidences. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that the likelihood of all-cause mortality was significantly higher in overweight and all categories of obese patients compared to underweight patients: overweight (OR: 5.3, 95% CI: 2.3-11.9, p< 0.001); obese class 1 (OR: 5.4, 95% CI: 2.3 - 12.2, p< 0.001); obese class 2 (OR: 6.5, 95% CI: 2.7 - 15.6, p< 0.001); and obese class 3 (OR: 3.7, 95% CI: 1.6 - 8.7, p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS Rivaroxaban prescribing has significantly increased over the years across general population, with a noticeable decline in obese population during the last few years (from 2018 onwards). Furthermore, an appreciable association was evident between all-cause mortality and BMI of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majdoleen Alalawneh
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ousama Rachid
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ibtihal Abdallah
- Clinical Pharmacy Services, Hamad General Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed Mahfouz
- Pharmacy Department, Heart Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hazem Elewa
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammed Ibn-Mas'ud Danjuma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hamad General Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Asmaa Ezzeldin Mohamed
- Clinical Pharmacy Services, Hamad General Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed Awaisu
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Al-Hendawi M, Hussein E, Al Ghafri B, Bulut S. A Scoping Review of Studies on Assistive Technology Interventions and Their Impact on Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Arab Countries. Children (Basel) 2023; 10:1828. [PMID: 38002919 PMCID: PMC10670675 DOI: 10.3390/children10111828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
The rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Arab countries necessitates evidence-based interventions. Assistive technology (AT) presents a promising approach. However, data on the pervasiveness of AT use and its effectiveness for individuals with ASD, specifically within Arab countries, remain scarce. OBJECTIVE To review the current literature on the AT interventions and outcomes reported for individuals with ASD in Arab countries. METHODS A scoping review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was undertaken to explore the utilization of AT, segmented into three categories: low-technology (low-tech), mid-technology (mid-tech), and high-technology (high-tech) devices. RESULTS Twelve studies had a pooled sample of 1547 participants, primarily male school-aged children with ASD. The AT applications evaluated ranged from low-tech visual schedules and support to high-tech virtual reality systems. Studies have reported the potential benefits of AT in improving communication, social, academic, adaptive, and functional abilities; however, comparative evidence between AT interventions is limited. The identified barriers to the adoption of AT included caregiver uncertainty about the use of AT and a lack of awareness of AT among professionals and the Arab community in general. CONCLUSION Available studies suggest that the adoption of AT can enhance the skills of individuals with ASD in Arab countries. However, more rigorous studies across diverse demographic groups and Arab national regions are needed to strengthen the evidence base and provide appropriate recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Al-Hendawi
- Department of Psychological Sciences, College of Education, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (E.H.); (B.A.G.)
| | - Esraa Hussein
- Department of Psychological Sciences, College of Education, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (E.H.); (B.A.G.)
| | - Badriya Al Ghafri
- Department of Psychological Sciences, College of Education, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (E.H.); (B.A.G.)
| | - Sefa Bulut
- Department of Counseling Psychology, School of Education, Ibn Haldun University, 34494 İstanbul, Turkey;
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Yempally S, Magadia P, Ponnamma D. Effect of Zn-Fe 2O 3 nanomaterials on the phase separated morphologies of polyvinylidene fluoride piezoelectric nanogenerators. RSC Adv 2023; 13:33863-33874. [PMID: 38020024 PMCID: PMC10658217 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra03745b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-powered devices based on piezoelectric nanogenerators (PENGs) are becoming crucial in the upcoming smart societies as they can integrate multifunctional applications, especially sensing, energy storage, etc. In this work, we explore the piezoelectric voltage generation happening in polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanocomposites developed by phase separation. The simple method adopted for the nanocomposite synthesis rules out the high voltage required for the normal electrospun PENGs and adds to their cost-effectiveness. Zinc-doped iron oxide (Zn-Fe2O3) nanomaterials influence the piezoelectric properties by enhancing the crystallinity and structural properties of the polymer. The phase separation process causes structural rearrangements within the PVDF by inducing the directional alignment of -CH2- and -CF2-chains and is the major reason for electroactive phase enhancement. Layers of Zn-Fe2O3 were uniformly distributed in the phase-separated PVDF without being negatively influenced by the solvent-non-solvent interactions during phase separation. At 3 wt%, the Zn-Fe2O3 induced an open circuit voltage of 0.41 volts, about 12 times greater than that of the neat PVDF film. Nanoparticles affected the thermal degradation and crystallinity of the polymer composites most effectively, and the dielectric properties of the PVDF/Zn-Fe2O3 composite microfilms were also pronounced. The proposed simple and cost-effective approach to flexible microfilm fabrication suggests significant applications in wearable electronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swathi Yempally
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University P.O. Box 2713 Doha Qatar
| | - Patricia Magadia
- Chemical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Qatar University 2713 Doha Qatar
| | - Deepalekshmi Ponnamma
- Materials Science and Technology Program, Department of Mathematics, Statistics and Physics, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University 2713 Doha Qatar +974-50182442
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Abouhasera S, Abu-Madi M, Al-Hamdani M, Abdallah AM. Exploring Emotional Intelligence and Sociodemographics in Higher Education; the Imperative for Skills and Curriculum Development. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:911. [PMID: 37998658 PMCID: PMC10669286 DOI: 10.3390/bs13110911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
There is increasing interest in understanding the nature and impact of emotional intelligence (EI) in educational institutions and the workplace since EI is associated with academic performance, career success, job satisfaction, and management skills. Here we measured EI levels in students and employees at Qatar University and examined associations with sociodemographic variables. This cross-sectional study used the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Short Form (TEIQue-SF) questionnaire to quantify EI. Of 517 respondents, 315 were students and 202 were employees. The mean global EI level across all participants was 4.80 ± 0.78, with EI highest in the well-being domain (5.43 ± 1.04). Overall, older respondents had higher EI than younger respondents. There was no significant effect of gender, marital status, or employment position on EI. However, there were significant two- and three-way interactions. As a standalone variable, age was the most important factor influencing EI development in our cohort. However, three-way interactions revealed complex effects between age, gender, and marital status and EI. Our findings support a need for workshops on EI for employees and integrating dedicated courses into existing curricula to equip students with effective interpersonal relationship skills that foster EI development. Developing such interpersonal skills could help to promote personal, professional, and academic success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaa Abouhasera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; (S.A.); (M.A.-M.)
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Marawan Abu-Madi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; (S.A.); (M.A.-M.)
| | - Mohammed Al-Hamdani
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar;
| | - Atiyeh M. Abdallah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; (S.A.); (M.A.-M.)
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Elsayed AM, Al-Kaabi LS, Al-Abdulla NM, Al-Kuwari MS, Al-Mulla AA, Al-Shamari RS, Alhusban AK, AlNajjar AA, Doi SAR. Clinical Phenotypes of PCOS: a Cross-Sectional Study. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:3261-3272. [PMID: 37217826 PMCID: PMC10643327 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01262-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This cross-sectional study examines the Doi-Alshoumer PCOS clinical phenotype classification in relation to measured clinical and biochemical characteristics of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Two cohorts of women (Kuwait and Rotterdam) diagnosed with PCOS (FAI > 4.5%) were examined. These phenotypes were created using neuroendocrine dysfunction (IRMA LH/FSH ratio > 1 or LH > 6 IU/L) and menstrual cycle status (oligo/amenorrhea) to create three phenotypes: (A) neuroendocrine dysfunction and oligo/amenorrhea, (B) without neuroendocrine dysfunction but with oligo/amenorrhea, and (C) without neuroendocrine dysfunction and with regular cycles. These phenotypes were compared in terms of hormonal, biochemical, and anthropometric measures. The three suggested phenotypes (A, B, and C) were shown to be sufficiently distinct in terms of hormonal, biochemical, and anthropometric measures. Patients who were classified as phenotype A had neuroendocrine dysfunction, excess LH (and LH/FSH ratio), irregular cycles, excess A4, infertility, excess T, highest FAI and E2, and excess 17αOHPG when compared to the other phenotypes. Patients classified as phenotype B had irregular cycles, no neuroendocrine dysfunction, obesity, acanthosis nigricans, and insulin resistance. Lastly, patients classified as phenotype C had regular cycles, acne, hirsutism, excess P4, and the highest P4 to E2 molar ratio. The differences across phenotypes suggested distinct phenotypic expression of this syndrome, and the biochemical and clinical correlates of each phenotype are likely to be useful in the management of women with PCOS. These phenotypic criteria are distinct from criteria used for diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Suhail A R Doi
- Department of Population Medicine, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Mahmoud MA, Ayoub HH, Coyle P, Tang P, Hasan MR, Yassine HM, Al Thani AA, Al‐Kanaani Z, Al‐Kuwari E, Jeremijenko A, Kaleeckal AH, Latif AN, Shaik RM, Abdul‐Rahim HF, Nasrallah GK, Al‐Kuwari MG, Butt AA, Al‐Romaihi HE, Al‐Thani MH, Al‐Khal A, Bertollini R, Abu‐Raddad LJ, Chemaitelly H. SARS-CoV-2 infection and effects of age, sex, comorbidity, and vaccination among older individuals: A national cohort study. Influenza Other Respir Viruses 2023; 17:e13224. [PMID: 38019700 PMCID: PMC10663173 DOI: 10.1111/irv.13224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated the contribution of age, coexisting medical conditions, sex, and vaccination to incidence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and of severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19 in older adults since pandemic onset. METHODS A national retrospective cohort study was conducted in the population of Qatar aged ≥50 years between February 5, 2020 and June 15, 2023. Adjusted hazard ratios (AHRs) for infection and for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes were estimated through Cox regression models. RESULTS Cumulative incidence was 25.01% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 24.86-25.15%) for infection and 1.59% (95% CI: 1.55-1.64%) for severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19 after a follow-up duration of 40.9 months. Risk of infection varied minimally by age and sex but increased significantly with coexisting conditions. Risk of infection was reduced with primary-series vaccination (AHR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.90-0.93) and further with first booster vaccination (AHR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.74-0.77). Risk of severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19 increased exponentially with age and linearly with coexisting conditions. AHRs for severe, critical, or fatal COVID-19 were 0.86 (95% CI: 0.7-0.97) for one dose, 0.15 (95% CI: 0.13-0.17) for primary-series vaccination, and 0.11 (95% CI: 0.08-0.14) for first booster vaccination. Sensitivity analysis restricted to only Qataris yielded similar results. CONCLUSION Incidence of severe COVID-19 in older adults followed a dynamic pattern shaped by infection incidence, variant severity, and population immunity. Age, sex, and coexisting conditions were strong determinants of infection severity. Vaccine protection against severe outcomes showed a dose-response relationship, highlighting the importance of booster vaccination for older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Houssein H. Ayoub
- Mathematics ProgramDepartment of Mathematics, Statistics, and PhysicsCollege of Arts and SciencesQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Peter Coyle
- Hamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- Biomedical Research CenterQU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Wellcome‐Wolfson Institute for Experimental MedicineQueens UniversityBelfastUK
| | | | - Mohammad R. Hasan
- Department of Pathology and Molecular MedicineMcMaster UniversityHamiltonCanada
| | - Hadi M. Yassine
- Department of Biomedical ScienceCollege of Health SciencesQU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Department of Public HealthCollege of Health SciencesQU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Asmaa A. Al Thani
- Department of Biomedical ScienceCollege of Health SciencesQU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Department of Public HealthCollege of Health SciencesQU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hanan F. Abdul‐Rahim
- Department of Public HealthCollege of Health SciencesQU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Gheyath K. Nasrallah
- Department of Biomedical ScienceCollege of Health SciencesQU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Department of Public HealthCollege of Health SciencesQU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | | | - Adeel A. Butt
- Hamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
- Department of MedicineWeill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of Population Health SciencesWeill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | | | | | | | | | - Laith J. Abu‐Raddad
- Department of Public HealthCollege of Health SciencesQU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
- Department of Population Health SciencesWeill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology GroupWeill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell UniversityDohaQatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDSSexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral HepatitisWeill Cornell Medicine–QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education CityDohaQatar
- College of Health and Life SciencesHamad bin Khalifa UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Department of Population Health SciencesWeill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology GroupWeill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell UniversityDohaQatar
- World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Disease Epidemiology Analytics on HIV/AIDSSexually Transmitted Infections, and Viral HepatitisWeill Cornell Medicine–QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation – Education CityDohaQatar
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Geetha M, Sadasivuni KK, Al-Ejji M, Sivadas N, Bhattacharyya B, Musthafa FN, Alfarwati S, Promi TJ, Ahmad SA, Alabed S, Hijazi DA, Alsaedi F, Al-Shaibah FN. Design and Development of Inexpensive Paper-Based Chemosensors for Detection of Divalent Copper. J Fluoresc 2023; 33:2327-2338. [PMID: 37036631 PMCID: PMC10640528 DOI: 10.1007/s10895-023-03220-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Simple, portable, and low-cost paper-based sensors are alternative devices that have the potential to replace high-cost sensing technologies. The compatibility of the paper base biosensors for both chemical and biochemical accentuates its feasibility for application in clinical diagnosis, environmental monitoring, and food quality monitoring. High concentration of copper in blood serum and urine is associated with diseases like liver diseases, carcinomas, acute and chronic infections, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. Detection of copper concentration can give an early sign of Alzheimer disease. Apart from that genetic Wilson's disease can be detected by evaluating the concentration of copper in the urine. In view of the above advantages, a novel and the highly sensitive paper-based sensor has been designed for the selective detection of Cu2+ ions. The fast and highly sensitive chemiresistive multi-dye system sensor can detect Cu2+ ions selectively in as low as 2.23 ppm concentration. Least interference has been observed for counter ion in the detection of Cu2+. Copper chloride, nitrate, and acetate were used to validate the detection process. This assay provides a very high selectivity of Cu2+ ion over other metal cations such as Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+, etc. The easy preparation and high stability of dye solutions, easy functionalization of the paper-based sensors, high selectivity over other cations, low interference of counter anion, and significantly low detection limit of 2.23 ppm make it an effective Cu2+ ion sensor for real-time application in near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mithra Geetha
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Maryam Al-Ejji
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Farzana N Musthafa
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sarya Alfarwati
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Sumayya Ali Ahmad
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sara Alabed
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Dima Anwar Hijazi
- Biological and Environmental Sciences Department, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Thanassoulas A, Theodoridou M, Barrak L, Riguene E, Alyaarabi T, Elrayess MA, Lai FA, Nomikos M. Arrhythmia-Associated Calmodulin E105A Mutation Alters the Binding Affinity of CaM to a Ryanodine Receptor 2 CaM-Binding Pocket. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15630. [PMID: 37958614 PMCID: PMC10649572 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Calmodulin (CaM) is a small, multifunctional calcium (Ca2+)-binding sensor that binds and regulates the open probability of cardiac ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2) at both low and high cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations. Recent isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) studies of a number of peptides that correspond to different regions of human RyR2 showed that two regions of human RyR2 (3584-3602aa and 4255-4271aa) bind with high affinity to CaM, suggesting that these two regions might contribute to a putative RyR2 intra-subunit CaM-binding pocket. Moreover, a previously characterized de novo long QT syndrome (LQTS)-associated missense CaM mutation (E105A) which was identified in a 6-year-old boy, who experienced an aborted first episode of cardiac arrest revealed that this mutation dysregulates normal cardiac function in zebrafish by a complex mechanism that involves alterations in both CaM-Ca2+ and CaM-RyR2 interactions. Herein, to gain further insight into how the CaM E105A mutation leads to severe cardiac arrhythmia, we generated large quantities of recombinant CaMWT and CaME105A proteins. We then performed ITC experiments to investigate and compare the interactions of CaMWT and CaME105A mutant protein with two synthetic peptides that correspond to the two aforementioned human RyR2 regions, which we have proposed to contribute to the RyR2 CaM-binding pocket. Our data reveal that the E105A mutation has a significant negative effect on the interaction of CaM with both RyR2 regions in the presence and absence of Ca2+, highlighting the potential contribution of these two human RyR2 regions to an RyR2 CaM-binding pocket, which may be essential for physiological CaM/RyR2 association and thus channel regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelos Thanassoulas
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (A.T.); (L.B.); (E.R.); (T.A.); (M.A.E.); (F.A.L.)
| | - Maria Theodoridou
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar;
| | - Laila Barrak
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (A.T.); (L.B.); (E.R.); (T.A.); (M.A.E.); (F.A.L.)
| | - Emna Riguene
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (A.T.); (L.B.); (E.R.); (T.A.); (M.A.E.); (F.A.L.)
| | - Tamader Alyaarabi
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (A.T.); (L.B.); (E.R.); (T.A.); (M.A.E.); (F.A.L.)
| | - Mohamed A. Elrayess
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (A.T.); (L.B.); (E.R.); (T.A.); (M.A.E.); (F.A.L.)
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar;
| | - F. Anthony Lai
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (A.T.); (L.B.); (E.R.); (T.A.); (M.A.E.); (F.A.L.)
| | - Michail Nomikos
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (A.T.); (L.B.); (E.R.); (T.A.); (M.A.E.); (F.A.L.)
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Zolezzi M, Ghanem R, Elamin S, Eltorki Y. Opinions and experiences on the provision of care to people with mental illnesses: a qualitative study with Doctor of Pharmacy graduates after a rotation in psychiatry. Int J Clin Pharm 2023; 45:1223-1230. [PMID: 37796362 PMCID: PMC10600030 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-023-01646-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacists are vital to optimizing therapy of people with mental illnesses. Limited knowledge, lack of confidence, and mental health-related stigma can lead to pharmacists' reluctance in the provision of pharmaceutical care to this population. Advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPE) in mental health have been reported as valuable learning opportunities to overcome these challenges. AIM This study aimed to explore PharmD graduates' perceived preparedness, attitudes, beliefs, and opinions on influencing factors for the provision of pharmaceutical care to people with mental illnesses after completing an APPE rotation in psychiatry. METHOD All PharmD graduates who had completed a rotation in psychiatry were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews. An interview guide was developed based on a literature review. A total of 11 PharmD graduates agreed to participate in the interviews, which were recorded, transcribed, and analysed inductively using thematic analysis and following a phenomenological approach. RESULTS Five themes were identified: Prior familiarity to mental health, opinions on the rotation, views on stigma, rotation's areas of improvement, and the positive impact of the rotation on practice. Although participants started the psychiatric rotation with low confidence and a sense of apprehension, they described their experience as unique, eye-opening, and insightful. Familiarity with mental health conditions before the rotation were perceived as a challenge to achieving full confidence in mental health care provision. CONCLUSION For the most part, the APPE in psychiatry was viewed as a positive opportunity for enhancing the PharmD graduates' insight, knowledge, and skills for pharmaceutical care provision to people with mental illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Zolezzi
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Rawan Ghanem
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahd Elamin
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Yassin Eltorki
- Mental Health Services, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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Abstract
Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors represent one type of new-generation type 2 diabetes (T2DM) drug treatment. The mechanism of action of an SGLT2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) in treating T2DM depends on lowering blood glucose levels effectively via increasing the glomerular excretion of glucose. A good number of randomized clinical trials revealed that SGLT2is significantly prevented heart failure (HF) and cardiovascular death in T2DM patients. Despite ongoing clinical trials in HF patients without T2DM, there have been a limited number of translational studies on the cardioprotective properties of SGLT2is. As the cellular mechanism behind the cardiac benefits of SGLT2is is still to be elucidated, animal models are used to better understand the pathways behind the cardioprotective mechanism of SGLT2i. In this review, we summarize the animal models constructed to study the cardioprotective mechanisms of SGLT2is to help deliver a more comprehensive understanding of the in vivo work that has been done in this field and to help select the most optimal animal model to use when studying the different cardioprotective effects of SGLT2is.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najlaa A Al Thani
- Research and Development Department, Barzan Holdings, P. O. Box 7178, Doha, Qatar
| | - Maram Hasan
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Huseyin C Yalcin
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Yousaf AB, Imran M, Farooq M, Kausar S, Yasmeen S, Kasak P. Graphitic Carbon Nitride Nanosheets Decorated with Zinc-Cadmium Sulfide for Type-II Heterojunctions for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2023; 13:2609. [PMID: 37764638 PMCID: PMC10535485 DOI: 10.3390/nano13182609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we fabricated graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) nanosheets with embedded ZnCdS nanoparticles to form a type II heterojunction using a facile synthesis approach, and we used them for photocatalytic H2 production. The morphologies, chemical structure, and optical properties of the obtained g-C3N4-ZnCdS samples were characterized by a battery of techniques, such as TEM, XRD, XPS, and UV-Vis DRS. The as-synthesized g-C3N4-ZnCdS photocatalyst exhibited the highest hydrogen production rate of 108.9 μmol·g-1·h-1 compared to the individual components (g-C3N4: 13.5 μmol·g-1·h-1, ZnCdS: 45.3 μmol·g-1·h-1). The improvement of its photocatalytic activity can mainly be attributed to the heterojunction formation and resulting synergistic effect, which provided more channels for charge carrier migration and reduced the recombination of photogenerated electrons and holes. Meanwhile, the g-C3N4-ZnCdS heterojunction catalyst also showed a higher stability over a number of repeated cycles. Our work provides insight into using g-C3N4 and metal sulfide in combination so as to develop low-cost, efficient, visible-light-active hydrogen production photocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammar Bin Yousaf
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China;
| | - Muhammad Farooq
- Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology, Shinshu University, Ueda 386-8567, Japan
| | - Samaira Kausar
- Department of Chemistry, National Science College, Satellite Town, Gujranwala 52250, Pakistan; (S.K.); (S.Y.)
| | - Samina Yasmeen
- Department of Chemistry, National Science College, Satellite Town, Gujranwala 52250, Pakistan; (S.K.); (S.Y.)
| | - Peter Kasak
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
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Fituri S, Shi Z. Association between Dietary Patterns and Cognitive Function among Qatari Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Qatar Biobank Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:4053. [PMID: 37764836 PMCID: PMC10537779 DOI: 10.3390/nu15184053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the association between dietary patterns and cognitive function among Qatari adults. In a cross-sectional analysis, data on 1000 Qatari adults attending the Qatar Biobank Study (QBB) aged ≥18 years were obtained. Using factor analysis, dietary patterns were constructed based on habitual dietary intake assessed by food frequency questionnaires (FFQs). The mean reaction time (MRT) derived from self-administered touch screen tests was used as an indicator of cognitive function. The association between dietary patterns and MRT was investigated using linear regression. The mean age of the participants was 35.8 (SD 10.3) years, and the mean MRT was 715.3 (SD 204.1) milliseconds. Three dietary patterns were identified. The "traditional" dietary pattern, characterized by high intakes of white rice, mixed dishes and soups/starters possibly high in saturated fat and sodium, was positively associated with MRT. In the multivariable model, comparing the highest to lowest quartiles of the traditional pattern, the regression coefficient for MRT was 50.0 (95% CI 16.9, 83.1; p for trend 0.001). There was an effect modification of diabetes and age on the association between the "modern" dietary pattern and MRT. The "convenient" dietary pattern was not associated with cognition. In conclusion, the traditional rice-based dietary pattern may be associated with poor cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zumin Shi
- Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar;
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Riguene E, Theodoridou M, Barrak L, Elrayess MA, Nomikos M. The Relationship between Changes in MYBPC3 Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism-Associated Metabolites and Elite Athletes' Adaptive Cardiac Function. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2023; 10:400. [PMID: 37754829 PMCID: PMC10531821 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd10090400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Athletic performance is a multifactorial trait influenced by a complex interaction of environmental and genetic factors. Over the last decades, understanding and improving elite athletes' endurance and performance has become a real challenge for scientists. Significant tools include but are not limited to the development of molecular methods for talent identification, personalized exercise training, dietary requirements, prevention of exercise-related diseases, as well as the recognition of the structure and function of the genome in elite athletes. Investigating the genetic markers and phenotypes has become critical for elite endurance surveillance. The identification of genetic variants contributing to a predisposition for excellence in certain types of athletic activities has been difficult despite the relatively high genetic inheritance of athlete status. Metabolomics can potentially represent a useful approach for gaining a thorough understanding of various physiological states and for clarifying disorders caused by strength-endurance physical exercise. Based on a previous GWAS study, this manuscript aims to discuss the association of specific single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in the MYBPC3 gene encoding for cardiac MyBP-C protein with endurance athlete status. MYBPC3 is linked to elite athlete heart remodeling during or after exercise, but it could also be linked to the phenotype of cardiac hypertrophy (HCM). To make the distinction between both phenotypes, specific metabolites that are influenced by variants in the MYBPC3 gene are analyzed in relation to elite athletic performance and HCM. These include theophylline, ursodeoxycholate, quinate, and decanoyl-carnitine. According to the analysis of effect size, theophylline, quinate, and decanoyl carnitine increase with endurance while decreasing with cardiovascular disease, whereas ursodeoxycholate increases with cardiovascular disease. In conclusion, and based on our metabolomics data, the specific effects on athletic performance for each MYBPC3 SNP-associated metabolite are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emna Riguene
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (E.R.); (L.B.); (M.A.E.)
| | - Maria Theodoridou
- Biomedical Research Center (BRC), Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar;
| | - Laila Barrak
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (E.R.); (L.B.); (M.A.E.)
| | - Mohamed A. Elrayess
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (E.R.); (L.B.); (M.A.E.)
- Biomedical Research Center (BRC), Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar;
| | - Michail Nomikos
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (E.R.); (L.B.); (M.A.E.)
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Kohil A, Abdalla W, Ibrahim WN, Al-Harbi KM, Al-Haidose A, Al-Asmakh M, Abdallah AM. The Immunomodulatory Role of Microbiota in Rheumatic Heart Disease: What Do We Know and What Can We Learn from Other Rheumatic Diseases? Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 59:1629. [PMID: 37763748 PMCID: PMC10536446 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59091629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) represents a serious cardiac sequela of acute rheumatic fever, occurring in 30-45% of patients. RHD is multifactorial, with a strong familial predisposition and known environmental risk factors that drive loss of immunological tolerance. The gut and oral microbiome have recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of RHD. Disruption of the delicate balance of the microbiome, or dysbiosis, is thought to lead to autoimmune responses through several different mechanisms including molecular mimicry, epitope spreading, and bystander activation. However, data on the microbiomes of RHD patients are scarce. Therefore, in this comprehensive review, we explore the various dimensions of the intricate relationship between the microbiome and the immune system in RHD and other rheumatic diseases to explore the potential effect of microbiota on RHD and opportunities for diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Kohil
- Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Wafa Abdalla
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU-Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.A.-A.)
| | - Wisam N. Ibrahim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU-Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.A.-A.)
| | - Khalid M. Al-Harbi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Taibah University, Al-Madinah 41491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal Al-Haidose
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU-Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.A.-A.)
| | - Maha Al-Asmakh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU-Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.A.-A.)
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Atiyeh M. Abdallah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, QU-Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar (M.A.-A.)
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Alhammadi MS, Almashraqi AA, Thawaba AA, Fayed MMS, Aboalnaga AA. Dimensional and positional temporomandibular joint osseous characteristics in normodivergent facial patterns with and without temporomandibular disorders. Clin Oral Investig 2023; 27:5011-5020. [PMID: 37358688 PMCID: PMC10492742 DOI: 10.1007/s00784-023-05120-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study evaluated the dimensional and positional osseous temporomandibular joint features in normodivergent facial patterns with and without temporomandibular disorders. METHODS A total of 165 adult patients were divided into two groups: group 1 (n = 79 patients; 158 joints): temporomandibular disorders patients and group 2 (n = 86 patients; 172 joints): non-temporomandibular disorders patients. Three-dimensional positional and dimensional temporomandibular joint characteristics, including glenoid fossa, mandibular condyles, and joint spaces, were assessed by cone beam computed tomography. RESULTS The glenoid fossa positions in the three orthogonal planes and height showed statistical significance between the two studied groups. The temporomandibular disorders patients showed higher horizontal and vertical condyle inclinations while anteroposterior inclination was less, and the condyle was positioned more superior, anterior, and lateral in the glenoid fossa. The condyle width and length showed no significance between the two groups, while condyle height was smaller in temporomandibular disorders patients. Anterior and medial joint spaces increased while the superior and posterior joint spaces reduced in temporomandibular disorders patients. CONCLUSION There were significant differences between the patients with and without temporomandibular joint disorders in terms of mandibular fossa positions and height as well as condylar positions and inclinations in horizontal and vertical planes together with reduced condylar height and reduced posterior and superior joint spaces in the temporomandibular disorders patients. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The temporomandibular disorder is a multifactorial disorder in which one of these factors is the dimensional and positional characteristics of the temporomandibular joints; including or excluding this factor requires a comprehensive three-dimensional investigation of patients with TMD compared to the normal group under the condition that the facial pattern is average as a confounding factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maged S. Alhammadi
- Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer A. Almashraqi
- Department of Pre-Clinical Oral Health Sciences, College of Dental Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed A. Thawaba
- Orthodontic Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mona M. Salah Fayed
- Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University and Vice Dean for Postgraduate Studies and Research, Faculty of Dentistry, MSA University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira A. Aboalnaga
- Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Abdelsalam E, Almomani F, Alnawafah H, Alrashed R. Triple-renewable energy system for electricity production and water desalination. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023; 30:98895-98906. [PMID: 36036347 PMCID: PMC10533634 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22547-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This work presents a novel triple-renewable energy system (TRES) that is based on integrating the photovoltaic panels (PVPs), conventional solar chimney (CSC), and cooling tower (CT) in one structure. The ultimate objective of the proposed TRES system is to produce electrical power (Pelc), desalinated water (Dw), and if required cooling utilities. The components of the system include a chimney tower, collector, base, PVPs, water pool, bi-directional turbine, and water sprinklers. The TRES system can be operated as CSC during the daytime and CT at night providing 24-h operation. The PVPs were integrated within the structure to increase the Pelc production and enhance the process performance by heating the air inside the system. The TRES structure increased the efficiency to 0.860% in comparison with the CSC (0.313%). The annual Pelc production from the TRES system was found to be 792 MWh compared with only 380 MWh generated by the CSC achieving 2.1 folds overall improvement. The CSC-PV and CT contributed to 47% (494 MWh) and 24% (253 MWh) of the Pelc production, respectively. The annual Dw production was found to be 1.2-fold higher (163,142 tons) higher than the CSC (139,443 tons). The newly developed TRES system offers a great potential to produce Pelc and Dw and save fossil fuel consumption while reducing the emissions of greenhouse gasses (GHGs) to the atmosphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Abdelsalam
- Energy Engineering Department, Al Hussein Technical University, Amman, 11831 Jordan
| | - Fares Almomani
- Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hamza Alnawafah
- Energy Engineering Department, Al Hussein Technical University, Amman, 11831 Jordan
| | - Radi Alrashed
- Energy Engineering Department, Al Hussein Technical University, Amman, 11831 Jordan
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Hailan S, Sobolciak P, Popelka A, Kasak P, Adham S, Krupa I. Complex treatment of oily polluted waters by modified melamine foams: from colloidal emulsions to a free oil removal. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023; 30:97872-97887. [PMID: 37603252 PMCID: PMC10495526 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29055-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
This study deals with the efficient, low-cost, and scalable treatment of oily polluted waters including colloidal emulsions, oil-in-water mixtures, and free oil removal using melamine foams (MFs) modified by ferric chloride (FeCl3). Modified foams have superhydrophobic character due to the coordination of Fe3+ with free electron pairs on nitrogen and oxygen atoms within the melamine structure. The water contact angles (WCA) were 146° ± 2°, 148° ± 4°, 153° ± 2°, and 150° ± 4° for foams modified by the solutions with concentrations of 0.001 M, 0.005 M, 0.01 M, and 0.02 M, respectively. This modification enables the efficient treatment of various oil/water systems, including oil/water colloidal emulsions (99 vol% of the droplets have dimensions below 500 nm), oil-in-water mixtures up to 40 weight % of the oil component, and "free" oil removal as it was demonstrated in this study for the first time. The emulsions containing 100 ppm diesel oil (DO) were separated with 91.4% efficiency, and the mixtures containing 20 and 40 weight % DO were separated with 99.9% efficiency. Modified foams also quickly remove free DO from the water surface, absorbing 95 g/g DO, whereas water sorption was negligible. The separation of colloidal oil in water emulsions represents the key finding of this study as it indicates the applicability of the treated MFs for the treatment of emulsified industrial wastewater. The demulsification mechanism is based on multiple diffusion processes running at different time scales, including diffusion of the emulsion into the foam and diffusion of oil droplets within the foam, combined with parallel adsorption of oil droplets onto the solid skeleton of the foam. A multiplied usage of these foams for all these niche operations was also proven. The application of our current study with previous studies on modified MFs and polyurethane for water oil separation utilization is summarized in Table S1 ESI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hailan
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Patrik Sobolciak
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Anton Popelka
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Peter Kasak
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Samer Adham
- ConocoPhillips Global Water Sustainability Center, Qatar Science, and Technology Park, P. O. Box 24750, Doha, Qatar
| | - Igor Krupa
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
- Materials Science and Technology Graduate Program, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Mikaeili H, Habib AM, Yeung CWL, Santana-Varela S, Luiz AP, Panteleeva K, Zuberi S, Athanasiou-Fragkouli A, Houlden H, Wood JN, Okorokov AL, Cox JJ. Molecular basis of FAAH-OUT-associated human pain insensitivity. Brain 2023; 146:3851-3865. [PMID: 37222214 PMCID: PMC10473560 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide and new treatments are needed urgently. One way to identify novel analgesic strategies is to understand the biological dysfunctions that lead to human inherited pain insensitivity disorders. Here we report how the recently discovered brain and dorsal root ganglia-expressed FAAH-OUT long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) gene, which was found from studying a pain-insensitive patient with reduced anxiety and fast wound healing, regulates the adjacent key endocannabinoid system gene FAAH, which encodes the anandamide-degrading fatty acid amide hydrolase enzyme. We demonstrate that the disruption in FAAH-OUT lncRNA transcription leads to DNMT1-dependent DNA methylation within the FAAH promoter. In addition, FAAH-OUT contains a conserved regulatory element, FAAH-AMP, that acts as an enhancer for FAAH expression. Furthermore, using transcriptomic analyses in patient-derived cells we have uncovered a network of genes that are dysregulated from disruption of the FAAH-FAAH-OUT axis, thus providing a coherent mechanistic basis to understand the human phenotype observed. Given that FAAH is a potential target for the treatment of pain, anxiety, depression and other neurological disorders, this new understanding of the regulatory role of the FAAH-OUT gene provides a platform for the development of future gene and small molecule therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajar Mikaeili
- Molecular Nociception Group, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Abdella M Habib
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Charlix Wai-Lok Yeung
- Molecular Nociception Group, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Sonia Santana-Varela
- Molecular Nociception Group, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Ana P Luiz
- Molecular Nociception Group, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Kseniia Panteleeva
- Molecular Nociception Group, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Sana Zuberi
- Molecular Nociception Group, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Henry Houlden
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - John N Wood
- Molecular Nociception Group, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Andrei L Okorokov
- Molecular Nociception Group, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - James J Cox
- Molecular Nociception Group, Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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Khaled Y, Abdelhamid AA, Al-Mazroey H, Almannai AK, Fetais S, Al-Srami AS, Ahmed S, Al-Hajri N, Mustafa A, Chivese T, Djouhri L. Higher serum uric acid is associated with poorer cognitive performance in healthy middle-aged people: a cross-sectional study. Intern Emerg Med 2023; 18:1701-1709. [PMID: 37330420 PMCID: PMC10504193 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-023-03337-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Age-related cognitive impairment can occur many years before the onset of the clinical symptoms of dementia. Uric acid (UA), a metabolite of purine-rich foods, has been shown to be positively associated with improved cognitive function, but such association remains controversial. Moreover, most of the previous studies investigating the association included elderly participants with memory-related diseases. Therefore, the present study aimed at investigating whether serum UA (sUA) is associated with cognitive performance in healthy middle-aged individuals. We conducted a cross-sectional study on a cohort of middle-aged individuals (40-60 years old) who participated in the Qatar Biobank. The participants had no memory-related diseases, schizophrenia, stroke, or brain damage. They were divided according to sUA level into a normal group (< 360 μmol/L) and a high group (≥ 360 μmol/L), and underwent an assessment of cognitive function using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery. Two cognitive function domains were assessed: (a) speed of reaction/reaction time and (b) short-term visual memory. The median age of the 931 participants included in the study was 48.0 years (IQR: 44.0, 53.0), of which 47.6% were male. Adjusted multivariable linear regression analyses showed that higher sUA is associated with poorer performance on the visual memory domain of cognitive function (β = - 6.87, 95% CI - 11.65 to - 2.10, P = 0.005), but not on the speed of reaction domain (β = - 55.16, 95% CI - 190.63 to 80.30, P = 0.424). Our findings support previous studies suggesting an inverse association between high sUA levels and cognitive function in elderly and extend the evidence for such a role to middle-aged participants. Further prospective studies are warranted to investigate the relationship between UA and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Khaled
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aya A Abdelhamid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hissa Al-Mazroey
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Abdulrahman K Almannai
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sara Fetais
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aisha S Al-Srami
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shaima Ahmed
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Noora Al-Hajri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ayman Mustafa
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Tawanda Chivese
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Laiche Djouhri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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Almuraikhy S, Anwardeen N, Doudin A, Sellami M, Domling A, Agouni A, Althani AA, Elrayess MA. Antioxidative Stress Metabolic Pathways in Moderately Active Individuals. Metabolites 2023; 13:973. [PMID: 37755253 PMCID: PMC10535328 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13090973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) is known to have beneficial effects on health, primarily through its antioxidative stress properties. However, the specific metabolic pathways that underlie these effects are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the metabolic pathways that are involved in the protective effects of moderate PA in non-obese and healthy individuals. Data on 305 young, non-obese participants were obtained from the Qatar Biobank. The participants were classified as active or sedentary based on their self-reported PA levels. Plasma metabolomics data were collected and analyzed to identify differences in metabolic pathways between the two groups. The results showed that active participants had increased activation of antioxidative, stress-related pathways, including lysoplasmalogen, plasmalogen, phosphatidylcholine, vitamin A, and glutathione. Additionally, there were significant associations between glutathione metabolites and certain clinical traits, including bilirubin, uric acid, hemoglobin, and iron. This study provides new insights into the metabolic pathways that are involved in the protective effects of moderate PA in non-obese and healthy individuals. The findings may have implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies that target these pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shamma Almuraikhy
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
- Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, Drug Design, Groningen University, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Najeha Anwardeen
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
| | - Asmma Doudin
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
| | - Maha Sellami
- Physical Education Department (PE), College of Education, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
| | - Alexander Domling
- Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, Drug Design, Groningen University, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Abdelali Agouni
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
| | - Asmaa A. Althani
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Science, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
| | - Mohamed A. Elrayess
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
- College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar
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