Bullying, maltreatment and uncivil faculty member behaviors at universities

Objective: Bullying and uncivil behaviors frequently happen in higher education lecture halls. This study aimed at exploring college students bullying incidents and mistreatments by faculty members, witnesses, and the type of bullying, where bullying and exploitations mostly happen. Method: A total 2646 (1493 female & 1185 male) students from a mid-size state university studying at every accessible department voluntarily participated to fill out a survey. A survey instrument and a social demographic information form is used to collect data. A chi-square test and several descriptive statistics were run to analyze the data. Results: Results revealed that 10 % of student were threatened being graded lower or being failed, 21 % stated that they did not believe in fair investigation even when they could complain to the relevant authorities in the university. Among them, 31 % of the students witnessed a faculty member threatening students' in an uncivil manner. Male faculty members were 4 times more likely to bully student or act uncivil behaviors than female faculty members. Assistant professor or younger faculty members tend to behave more negatively than higher ranking or older professors. Conclusions: Most of the incidents happen during the class. Results show that bullying is a universal phenomenon and it appears in every level and field of education. Even though there are cultural and departmental differences, and department-specific misbehaviors, it is still common in every level of education in every culture.

Objetivo: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo explorar los incidentes de intimidación y maltrato de estudiantes universitarios por parte de miembros de la facultad, testigos, el tipo de hostigamiento, dónde se producen principalmente los acosos y los maltratos, cómo se han enfrentado a estos hechos, cómo han resuelto el incidente, las razones del hostigamiento y los malos tratos, frecuencia de los mismos, el tipo observado de bullying y similitudes culturales. Diferencias en los comportamientos de bullying y características de los miembros de la facultad que realizan el bullying. Metodología: Un total de 2646 estudiantes de una universidad estatal de un tamaño mediano que estudiaban en las distintas facultades de la universidad seleccionada. Participaron voluntariamente para realizar una encuesta impulsada por el concepto de intimidación de Olweus. Resultados: Los resultados revelaron que el 10 % de los estudiantes fueron amenazados con una calificación inferior o reprobada, el 21 % dijo que no creía en una investigación justa, incluso si podían presentar una queja ante las autoridades pertinentes de la universidad. Solo el 5 % de los estudiantes mencionó haber presentado una queja verbal informal. El 18 % informó que el acoso era muy importante y muy estresante para ellos. Entre estos, el 31 % de los estudiantes fue testigo de la amenaza de un miembro de la facultad a los estudiantes de una manera poco correcta. Los varones de la facultad eran 4 veces más propensos que los miembros femeninos de la misma a intimidar a los estudiantes, o comportarse de manera no cívica. El profesor asistente o los miembros más jóvenes de la facultad tienden a comportarse de manera más negativa que los profesores de mayor rango o más antiguos. Parece que la mayoría de los incidentes ocurren durante la clase (11 %) o antes de que comience la misma (1,6 %). Conclusiones: Los resultados muestran que el acoso académico es un fenómeno universal y aparece en todos los niveles de la educación. A pesar de que existen diferencias culturales y departamentales, el acoso todavía es común en todos los niveles de educación de todas las culturas. El bullying tiene consecuencias negativas en los estudiantes; afecta perniciosamente su salud mental, integración escolar y logros académicos. Por lo tanto, los responsables de la administración escolar deben establecer pautas claras para las relaciones entre el profesorado y los estudiantes; y proporcionar ayuda de asesoramiento y acompañamiento para quienes lo necesiten.

Effect of combining epidural with general anesthesia on recovery after spine surgery: randomized controlled study

Background: Fast track techniques have been applied to reduce surgical stress response and to provide effective perioperative analgesia, thereby improving patient''''''''s recovery and reducing postoperative morbidity. The present study was undertaken to assess the effect of using combined general/epidural anesthesia (CGEA) on early recovery after lumbar spine surgeries. Subjects and Methods: The current prospective randomized clinical study had included a total of 40 patients who underwent elective one or two level laminectomy/discectomy. Patients were randomized and divided into two groups; general anesthesia (GA) group (group I) and combined general/epidural anesthesia group (CGEA) (group II). Patient characteristics, anesthesia time, surgical time, heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP), anesthetic / analgesic requirements, the occurrence of intraoperative bradycardia and/or hypotension, time to extubation, time to post anesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge and duration of PACU stay were recorded and considered for analysis. Results: It was observed that CGEA was significantly associated with reduction of intraoperative anesthetics / analgesic requirements, shorter time to extubation, time for PACU discharge and duration of PACU stay but on the expense of higher incidence of intraoperative hypotension. Conclusion: This study proved that CGEA seems to be an effective fast track anesthetic protocol in patients undergoing elective lumbar spine surgeries

Obesity may be erythropoietin dose-saving in hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND: In dialysis patients, the obesity-survival paradox still requires an explanation. Anemia and high doses of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are associated with worse outcomes in the hemodialysis (HD) population. In the present study, we explored the relation between obesity and anemia control in a sample of maintenance HD patients in Egypt. METHODS: This multicenter observational study included 733 patients on maintenance HD from 9 hemodialysis centers in Egypt. Clinical and laboratory data as well as average doses of ESAs and parenteral iron were recorded. The erythropoietin resistance index (ERI) was calculated. RESULTS: Obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2, was present in 22.6% of the studied population. The target hemoglobin level (10.0–11.5 g/dL) was achieved in 27.3% of non-obese and 25.3% of obese patients, with no significant difference. The median serum ferritin and the values of transferrin saturation index did not differ significantly between these two groups. The weekly ESA dose was significantly lower in obese than in non-obese patients (P = 0.0001). A trend toward higher ESA doses and ERI values was observed in patients with lower BMIs (P < 0.0001). Multiple linear regression revealed that the BMI and urea reduction ratio were the strongest predictors of the ERI. CONCLUSION: Our study adds more evidence to obesity-associated advantages in HD patients. BMI may determine ESA response, with better responses observed in patients with higher BMIs.

Vaginal misoprostol versus bilateral uterine artery ligation in decreasing blood loss in trans-abdominal myomectomy: a randomized controlled trial

Background: Uterine leimyomas are tumors of the smooth muscles and the connective tissues of the uterus. They are considered to be the most common benign pelvic tumor affecting about 20% of women above the age of 35. The diverse symptomatology of fibroids can be attributed to size, number and location of the tumors. The common symptoms include menorrhagia, infertility, abdominal mass and pressure effects

Aim of the Work: The aim of this study is to compare between the effect of medical [preoperative vaginal misoprostol] and non-medical [bilateral uterine artery ligation] regarding their efficacy to decrease blood loss in trans- abdominal myomectomy

Patients and Methods: Prospective randomized controlled interventional clinical trial. The study was conducted in Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital, Cairo, Egypt in the period between August 2015 till December 2016. It was approved by the Ethical Research Committee, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt. It included 60 women recruited from those attending the outpatient gynecology clinic, seeking treatment for symptomatic uterine myomas

Results: The current study revealed that there was no statistically significant difference between both groups regarding operative time, blood loss and postoperative hospital stay. Conclusion: A single pre-operative dose of 400 micrograms of vaginal misoprostol is as effective as uterine artery ligation in decreasing blood loss in transabdominal myomectomy. Misoprostol is a simple, cheap, fast, available and applicable tool that can be administered even an hour preoperatively

Recommendations: Preoperative vaginal misoprostol is an effective practical tool in decreasing blood loss in transabdominal myomectomy. Investigation of misoprostol use in larger population groups and with different dosages and administration routes, together with comparison of other methods used to reduce bleeding during myomectomy, is recommended

[ attitudes of the educational media specialist in the governmental schools towards applying standards of quality in the media activities: a field study]

Problem: The problem of the study clarified the attitudes of the Educational Media Specialist in the governmental Schools towards applying Standards of Quality in the Media activities, in the light of the Standards approved by the National Authority for Quality Assurance and Accreditation of Education

Methodology: The present study belongs to the descriptive studies used for the sample survey methodology

Tools: The study depend on the questionnaire that was applied to 200 individuals from the educational Media specialists in the governmental schools in Qalioubia governorate, who were selected by the intentional sampling method

Results: The results showed that 52.5% of the respondents believe that the quality system contributes to the achievement of the standards of performance of the educational media activities to a medium degree. This result can be explained in the light of the low quality culture of the respondents. The results showed that the educational media specialist achieves the highest level in the field of the practical skills, then the mental skills and general and transferable skills. This result can be explained in the light of the specialist's interest in the work which appear in front of the inspector and the school administration. The results revealed a decrease in the benefit of the participants from the training courses organized by the training and quality unit in governmental schools. The respondents added that the majority of the training courses they participated in were ineffective and not related to media activities. The interest of governmental schools in the professional development of journalism and school radio specialists was 17% [always]. This result can be explained in the light of the educational media activity has not paid much attention to governmental schools

Coblation tonsillectomy versus dissection tonsillectomy: a randomized prospective clinical study

Introduction: tonsillectomy has been practiced since antiquity. It continues to be one of the most commonly performed surgical procedure. Tonsillectomy produces an open wound that heals by secondary intention. The major postoperative morbidity problems are haemorrhage and pain. Coblation tonsillectomy being a relatively recent introduced technique depends on applying radiofrequency current with lower frequency than bipolar diathermy, allowing for significantly less painful and more rapid healing of tonsillar fossae

Aim of work: is to compare between the traditional dissection tonsillectomy and coblation tonsillectomy. This implies all aspects of surgery including operative time, postoperative course and incidence of complications

Patients and methods: during the period from January to August 2014 a sixty patients [29 males and 3 1 females] were scheduled for tonsillectomy. Their ages ranged from 5 to 16 years with the mean age 8.2 +/- 3.5 years. Patients enrolled in this study were divided into two groups. Group A: [30] underwent surgery using the conventional dissection ligation method, while Group B: [30] underwent Coblation tonsillectomy

Results: the mean score for the operative time was 33.8 minutes in [group A] as compared to 41.5 minutes in [group B] while the mean score for intra-operative blood loss was 104.5 ml in [group A] and 36.4 ml in [group B].Postoperative mean visual analogue scale [VAS] scores of pain for Group A were 7, 7.3, 6.73, 5.8, 5.3,4.87 and 4.5 in the first seven postoperative days respectively, while Mean scores for Group B were 7, 5.97, 5, 4.06, 3.87, 3.13 and 3 in the first seven postoperative days respectively. Regarding as return of normal swallowing [score 4] was achieved on the sixth day [mean 6.16 day] in Group A, and on the fourth day in Group B [mean 3.97 day]. On the seventh postoperative day, the percentage of normal pink mucosal lining was found to be 50% of the tonsillar bed in Group A, as compared to 75% in the coblation group [Group B]. Reactionary haemorrhage occurred in one case in the coblation group in comparison to two cases in the conventional group

Conclusion: coblation tonsillectomy proved to be safe and effective; however, reducing cost and addressing its postoperative complication rate are mandatory before considering it as the modality of choice for this commonly performed procedure

Effect of stiffness of single implant supported crowns on the resultant stresses. a finite element analysis

Objective: In the present study, the 3D finite element method was used to investigate the effect of crown material on stress distribution in the bone surrounding immediately loaded single dental

Materials and Methods: A 3D Finite Element model of mandibular first premolar was constructed to evaluate the performance of seven crown materials with different degree of stiffness [Porcelain, zirconium, Porcelain fused to gold, pure titanium, titanium alloy, Poly methyl methacrylate, and Polyether ether ketone PEEK]. The model was constructed using Solid Works version 2010 software. The model simulated also a cement layer between the implant abutment and the crown [Virolink II, Vivadent]. An axial static occlusal force of 200 N was applied to eight points in each functional cusp. The three-dimensional [3D] FE model was analyzed by ABAQUS/CAE version 6.10 software

Results: The results of this study indicated that among all crown materials the maximum von Mises stress values was observed in porcelain crown design [345.390 MPa].The highest von Mises stresses were found in the abutments for all models. In implants, the greatest stress was concentrated on the cervical region. PMMA and PEEK crown designs transferred less stress to abutment and screw. In all models, von Mises stresses increased in the coronal third of cortical bone in which the maximum von Mises stresses observed in the implant ­ cortical interface

Conclusions: Using more rigid material for the superstructure of an implant supports prosthesis did not have any effect on the stress values and stress distribution at the bone tissue surrounding implant. However, in the abutment, cement and crown structure, stress distributions and localizations were affected by the material's rigidity. More clinical studies are needed to evaluate the survival rate of these materials

Hepato-protective effect of rutin via IL-6/STAT3 pathway in CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

BACKGROUND: Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induces hepatotoxicity in animal models, including the increased blood flow and cytokine accumulation that are characteristic of tissue inflammation. The present study investigates the hepato-protective effect of rutin on CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. RESULTS: Forty male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Group I (control group) received 1 mL/kg of dimethyl sulfoxide intragastrically and 3 mL/kg olive oil intraperitoneally twice a week for 4 weeks. Group II received 70 mg/ kg rutin intragastrically. Groups III and IV received CCl4 (3 mL/kg, 30 % in olive oil) intraperitoneally twice a week for 4 weeks. Group IV received 70 mg/kg rutin intragastrically after 48 h of CCl4 treatment. Liver enzyme levels were determined in all studied groups. Expression of the following genes were monitored with real-time PCR: interleukin-6 (IL-6), dual-specificity protein kinase 5 (MEK5), Fas-associated death domain protein (FADD), epidermal growth factor (EGF), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), Janus kinase (JAK), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) and B-cell lymphoma-extra-large (Bcl-XL). The CCl4 groups showed significant increases in biochemical markers of hepatotoxicity and up-regulation of expression levels of IL-6, Bcl-XL, MEK5, FADD, EGF, STAT3 and JAK compared with the control group. However, CCl4 administration resulted in significant down-regulation of Bcl2 expression compared with the control group. Interestingly, rutin supplementation completely reversed the biochemical markers of hepatotoxicity and the gene expression alterations induced by CCl4. CONCLUSION: CCl4 administration causes alteration in expression of IL-6/STAT3 pathway genes, resulting in hepatotoxicity. Rutin protects against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity by reversing these expression changes.

Morphological studies on the vagina and vestibule of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) / Estudios morfológicos de la vagina y vestíbulo del camello (Camelus dromedarius)

The camel (Camelus dromedarius) is an important multipurpose livestock species and its meat represents about 10% of the red meat consumption in Egypt. The reproductive efficiency of camel under natural condition is generally considered to be low. Sound knowledge about the tubular genital organs of this species might facilitate the application of new reproductive methodology. Our study was therefore conducted to investigate the morphology of mucosal surface of vagina and vestibule on camels using light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The mucosal surface of vagina consisted of stratified columnar epithelium with mucous secreting cells (goblet-like cells). SEM of vagina revealed the presence of longitudinal primary and secondary folds and small transverse folds. The columnar epithelium showed marked cell boundary and its apical surface was studded by a lot of microvilli. TEM confirmed the presence of microvilli at apical surfaces and showed some secretory granules in the supranuclear region of the columnar epithelium. The vestibule of dromedary camel was lined by stratified squamous keratinized epithelium. Basal lamina and stratum granulosum of this epithelium showed strong PAS positive reaction. SEM of vestibule revealed the presence of small longitudinal and fine transverse folds with a lot of mucous debris. However TEM of vestibule showed the stratified squamous keratinized epithelium with basal layer of cuboidal cells and superficial layers of squamous cells.

El camello (Camelus dromedarius) es una importante especie de ganado de usos múltiples y el consumo de su carne corresponde al 10% aproximadamente del consumo de carne roja en Egipto. La eficiencia reproductiva del camello, bajo condiciones naturales, se considera generalmente baja. El conocimiento adecuado sobre los órganos genitales tubulares de esta especie podría facilitar la aplicación de una nueva metodología de reproducción. Por lo tanto, se llevó a cabo este estudio para investigar la morfología de la superficie de la mucosa de la vagina y el vestíbulo en camellos, utilizando luz, escaneado y microscopía electrónica de transmisión. La superficie de la mucosa de la vagina está formado por epitelio columnar estratificado con células secretoras mucosas (células en copa). La microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM) de la vagina reveló la presencia de pliegues primarios y secundarios longitudinales y pequeños pliegues transversales. El epitelio columnar mostró un límite celular marcado y su superficie apical se evidenció salpicado por una gran cantidad de microvellosidades. La microscopía electrónica por transmisión (TEM) confirmó la presencia de microvellosidades en las superficies apicales y mostró algunos gránulos secretores en la región supranuclear del epitelio columnar. El vestíbulo del dromedario está revestido por epitelio estratificado queratinizado, de tipo escamoso. La lámina basal y el estrato granuloso de este epitelio mostraron una fuerte reacción PAS positiva. La microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM) del vestíbulo reveló la presencia de pequeños pliegues transversales longitudinales y finos, con gran cantidad de restos de mucosidad. Sin embargo, la microscopía electrónica por transmisión (TEM) del vestíbuloreveló un epitelio queratinizado escamoso estratificado, con una capa basal de células cúbicas y capas superficiales de células escamosas.

Gasless laparoscopic anatomy and renal biopsy of the kidney in the standing mare / Anatomía laparoscópica sin gas y biopsia renal de los riñones de la yegua de pie

The current study aimed to provide the topography and renal biopsy of the standing mare kidneys by laparoscopy w ithout CO2 insufflation and to compare between the use of biopsy needle and forceps. Five clinically healthy adult nonpregnant mares weighing 250­300 Kg and aging 7­9 years were used in the current work. The gasless laparoscopic renal biopsy appeared simple, safe, reliable, minimal invasive, timesaving and economical technique. The parallel biopsy portals provided easy and accessible biopsy procedure than dorsal or ventral portals. The biopsies taken from the lateral surface were less hemorrhagic than those taken from the caudal pole. This study recommended the laparoscopic forceps because the biopsy forceps provided satisfactory and representative specimens with minimal hemorrhage than Tru-cut needle.

El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo proporcionar la topografía y la biopsia renal de los riñones en la yegua de pie, por laparoscopía sin insuflación de CO2, y comparar entre el uso de la biopsia con aguja y pinzas. Fueron utilizadas en este studio cinco yeguas adultas no gestantes clínicamente sanas con un peso de 250­300 Kg y edad de 7­9 años. La biopsia renal laparoscópica sin gas es un método seguro, confiable y mínimamente invasivo, económico y permite además ahorrar tiempo. Los portales de biopsia paralelas permiten un procedimiento de biopsia de fácil acceso. Las biopsias tomadas de la superficie lateral fueron menos hemorrágicas que aquellas obtenidas desde el polo caudal. Este estudio recomienda las pinzas laparoscópicas debido a que, a diferencia de la aguja Tru-cut, demostraron ser satisfactorias con una hemorragia mínima.

Antibacterial Activities of Six Medicinal Plants Used Traditionally by Saudi People to Treat Common Diseases.

Antibiotic resistance is increasing and dangerous problem resulting in a decrease in the used number and fully active antimicrobial agents available to treat infections with multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria. Herbal medicines may be an alternative treatment options. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activities of some medicinal plants used traditionally in Saudi Arabia against some pathogenic and MDR bacteria. The antimicrobial activities of water and organic crude extracts were prepared. Out of the 6 plants tested, 5 showed antimicrobial activities against one or more of the tested genera using paper disc diffusion assay. The most active antimicrobial plants were the extract of Azadirachta indica (neem), Zingiber officinale (ginger) Eucalptus globules, Rosmarinus officinalis and Lawsonia inermis with minimal inhibitory concentration (MICs) values ranged from 50-150μg/ml. Lepidium sativium have very weak activity with MIC of ≥200 μg/ml. At 600μg/ml, no toxicity was recorded for all tested extracts except of A. indica extract that showed toxicity (% of mortality ≥50). No antitumor activities for the different plant extracts were recorded against Human gastric cancer SGC-7901 cells. The biological activities may be due to some photochemical compounds including Anthocyanin, Butacyanin, Phytobutanins, Flavonoides, Stetoides and/or Saponins.

Safety and outcome of treatment of metastatic melanoma using 3-bromopyruvate: a concise literature review and case study / 癌症

3-Bromopyruvate (3BP) is a new, promising anticancer alkylating agent with several notable functions. In addition to inhibiting key glycolysis enzymes including hexokinase II and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), 3BP also selectively inhibits mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, angiogenesis, and energy production in cancer cells. Moreover, 3BP induces hydrogen peroxide generation in cancer cells (oxidative stress effect) and competes with the LDH substrates pyruvate and lactate. There is only one published human clinical study showing that 3BP was effective in treating fibrolamellar hepatocellular carcinoma. LDH is a good measure for tumor evaluation and predicts the outcome of treatment better than the presence of a residual tumor mass. According to the Warburg effect, LDH is responsible for lactate synthesis, which facilitates cancer cell survival, progression, aggressiveness, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Lactate produced through LDH activity fuels aerobic cell populations inside tumors via metabolic symbiosis. In melanoma, the most deadly skin cancer, 3BP induced necrotic cell death in sensitive cells, whereas high glutathione (GSH) content made other melanoma cells resistant to 3BP. Concurrent use of a GSH depletor with 3BP killed resistant melanoma cells. Survival of melanoma patients was inversely associated with high serum LDH levels, which was reported to be highly predictive of melanoma treatment in randomized clinical trials. Here, we report a 28-year-old man presented with stage IV metastatic melanoma affecting the back, left pleura, and lung. The disease caused total destruction of the left lung and a high serum LDH level (4,283 U/L). After ethics committee approval and written patient consent, the patient received 3BP intravenous infusions (1-2.2 mg/kg), but the anticancer effect was minimal as indicated by a high serum LDH level. This may have been due to high tumor GSH content. On combining oral paracetamol, which depletes tumor GSH, with 3BP treatment, serum LDH level dropped maximally. Although a slow intravenous infusion of 3BP appeared to have minimal cytotoxicity, its anticancer efficacy via this delivery method was low. This was possibly due to high tumor GSH content, which was increased after concurrent use of the GSH depletor paracetamol. If the anticancer effectiveness of 3BP is less than expected, the combination with paracetamol may be needed to sensitize cancer cells to 3BP-induced effects.

Primary cytomegalovirus infection in pregnant egyptian women confirmed by cytomegalovirus IgG avidity testing

To determine the frequency of primary cytomegalovirus [CMV] infection in pregnant Egyptian women using CMV IgG avidity testing. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Suez Canal University Hospital, Ismailia, Egypt. A total of 546 pregnant women, presenting for routine antenatal screening, were tested for CMV IgG and IgM using a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]. Sera from CMV IgM-positive women were tested by CMV IgG avidity assay All the 546 pregnant women were seropositive for anti-CMV IgG. Of the 546 women, 40 [7.3%] were positive or equivocal for IgM antibodies. All sera from the 40 women [IgG+/IgM+] showed a high or intermediate CMV IgG avidity index. Of the 40 women, 23 [57.5%] were in the second or third trimesters of pregnancy and had their first-trimester blood retrieved, and the tested CMV IgG avidity assay showed a high avidity index. Women who were IgM positive had no primary CMV infection in the index pregnancy as evidenced by the high CMV IgG avidity testing

Morphogenesis of rabbit kidney pre-and postnatal

Mammalian renal development differs from that of most of the other organs in that it proceeds through a series of three successive phases, each is marked by the formation of a more complex pair of kidneys. These kidneys are called the pronephros, mesonephros, and metanephros. The current study has been conducted to elucidate the developmental changes of rabbit kidneys during their pre- and postnatal life. In the present study we used samples, at different ages, of the rabbit kidneys from embryonic day 15 [E15] till maturity for light and scanning electron microscopical investigation. At E15, large mesonephros, occupied a great part of abdominal cavity of rabbit embryo, and undifferentiated metanephros were noticed. At E19 metanephros became differentiated into cortex and medulla with the initiation of nephron-forming stage. Additionally at this stage, the caudal series of mesonephros still detected but in degenerated and atrophied structure. Just before birth, at E30, the kidney demonstrated well-developed renal corpuscles, differentiated proximal and distal convoluted tubules, with apparently detectable loop of Henle and large collecting ducts. Shortly after birth rabbit kidney showed further morphogenesis and at two-months old, the kidney of rabbit with mature histological structure of the renal parenchyma was documented. In conclusion, the development of rabbit kidneys occurred mainly during the prenatal period while their histological maturity occurred from two to three weeks after birth. The present findings were discussed with previous publications

Molecular and Biochemical Study of Superoxide Dismutase Gene Polymorphisms in Egyptian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with and without Retinopathy.

Aims: This study aims to determine the antioxidant enzyme EC-SOD polymorphisms in Egyptian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with and without retinopathy, and its association with other biochemical changes to assess whether decreased SOD activity is associated with the development of diabetic complications. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Medicine Al-Hussein University Hospital, Cairo, Egypt, between May 2010 and April 2011. Methodology: The present study investigated the relationship among diabetes mellitus, lipid profiles, SOD activity, ESR, and CRP in the blood of 40 patients with type 2 diabetes with and without retinopathy and 20 healthy control subjects. The mean age of the diabetic patients was similar to that of control. The mean duration of the disease was 3.53 ± 1.17 years (1–5 years) in patients with type 2 diabetes without retinopathy and 18.7 ± 3.1 with retinopathy. Also we studied Arg213Gly dimorphism of the EC-SOD gene in type 2 diabetic patients with and without retinopathy and control persons using the PCR technique. Results: Superoxide dismutase (SOD) level was significantly decreased in diabetics and more markedly decrease in those with retinopathy. Total cholesterol (CHOL), triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c) levels were significantly increased in diabetics and more markedly increased in those with retinopathy compared with the control level. Genotype distribution of the EC-SOD in diabetic patients with and without retinopathy differed from normal individuals, as the argentines-to-glycine amino acid substitution was higher in diabetic patients compared with the normal individuals. Conclusion: The present study revealed that hyperglycemia produced marked oxidation impact as evidenced by a significant increase in lipid profile, lipid per oxidation products, as well as a significant decrease in the total SOD activity. Moreover, it showed that the genotype distribution of the EC-SOD was differed as the arginine-to-glycine amino acid substitution was higher in diabetic patients with and without retinopathy compared with the control individuals. This report emphasizes the important role of superoxide dismutase and its genotype distribution in diabetic patients with and without retinopathy, and hence the need for antioxidant supplements to delay the severity of diabetic retinopathy.

Impact of chewing Khat on the mode of delivery of Yemeni pregnant women

Khat chewing is common among Yemeni women, even during pregnancy where it may affect the wellbeing during pregnancy and during delivery of these pregnant women. This study was conducted to determine the impact of Khat chewing on the mode of delivery of pregnant Yemeni women. This is a prospective study for 60 regular Khat chewing pregnant women and 120 non-Khat chewing pregnant women, selected from those attended with singleton pregnancy in their first or second trimester from the ANC unit of AL-Gamhouri Teaching Hospital in Taiz [Republic of Yemen]. Khat chewer pregnant women, when compared with the control, showed statistically significant risk of 6.06 times to deliver at gestational age earlier than 37 weeks and insignificant risk of 2.27 times to deliver after 42 weeks. They showed a statistically significant risk of 2.65 times to deliver by cesarean section [CS] and insignificant risk of 4.86 times for instrumental delivery. This study concluded that Khat chewing is associated with higher rate of cesarean and instrumental deliveries that may affect maternal and fetal wellbeing

Computed tomography and cross sectional anatomy of the metacarpus and digits of the one-humped camel and egyptian water buffalo / Anatomía por tomografía computarizada y sección transversal del metacarpo y dígitos del camello de una joroba y el búfalo de agua egipcio

The use of advanced imaging in diagnostic patient evaluations is increasing as well as the availability of machines for veterinary practices. The purpose of this study was to provide an atlas of synchronized normal computed tomography and cross sectional anatomy of the metacarpus and digits in the one-humped camel and Egyptian water buffalo to provide a basis for diagnosis of their diseases by the aid of CT. One cm contiguous transverse CT images and cross sectional anatomy were obtained and photographed. Clinically applicable anatomic structures were identified and labeled at each level. In both animals, the medullary cavity of the fused third and fourth metacarpal bones was divided internally by a vertical bony septum which was a complete septum in the camel, complete at the proximal and distal extremities in the buffalo and small and incomplete in main part of fused shaft of metacarpal bones in buffalo. The CT of the present study in both camel and buffalo showed the adjacent extensor tendons as transverse narrow strap with undifferentiated outlines on the dorsal aspect of fused metacarpal bones, proximal phalanges and middle phalanges and the adjacent flexor tendons as roughly rounded mass with undifferentiated outlines on the palmar aspect of fused metacarpal bones, proximal phalanges and middle phalanges. The undifferentiated outlines of the adjacent extensor or flexor tendons in CT images is equivalent to cross sectional anatomy without dissection of the intervening fascia, where the outlines didn't appear in the latter also. Therefore, the cross sectional anatomy is superior to CT only when the intervening fascia is dissected. CT images of the current study have the potential to become part of our standard diagnostic investigation for anatomic regions previously difficult to be evaluated in the camel and buffalo.

El uso de imágenes avanzadas en las evaluaciones diagnósticas del paciente es cada vez mayor, así como la disponibilidad de máquinas para la práctica veterinaria. El propósito de este estudio fue proporcionar un atlas de anatomía por tomografía computarizada sincronizada normal y sección transveral del metacarpo y los dedos en el camello de una joroba y búfalos de agua Egipcios para proporcionar una base para el diagnóstico de sus enfermedades con la ayuda de TC. Fueron obtenidas y fotografiadas imágenes anatómicas de TC transversales de 1 cm contiguas y de sección transversal. Las estructuras anatómicas de aplicación clínica fueron identificadas y etiquetadas en cada nivel. En ambos animales, la cavidad medular de los huesos metacarpianos tercero y cuarto fusionados se dividió internamente por un septo vertical de hueso, el cual era un septo completo en el camello y completo en los extremos proximal y distal en los búfalos, y pequeños e incompletos en la parte principal de eje de fusión de los huesos metacarpianos en los búfalos. La TC mostró tanto en camellos como en búfalos a los tendones extensores adyacentes como una correa transversal estrecha con los contornos indiferenciados en la cara dorsal de los metacarpianos fusionados, falanges proximales y falanges media y, los tendones flexores adyacentes como una masa más o menos redondeada con contornos no diferenciados en la cara palmar de la fusión de los huesos metacarpianos, falanges proximales y falanges medias. Las líneas diferenciadas de los tendones extensores o flexores adyacentes en las imágenes de TC fue equivalente a la anatomía de sección transversal sin disección de la fascia de intervención, donde las líneas no aparece en el último. Por lo tanto, la anatomía de sección transversal es superior a la TC sólo cuando la intervención diseca la fascia. Las imágenes de TC del presente estudio tienen el potencial para convertirse en parte de nuestra investigación de diagnóstico estándar para...

Local injection of autologous platelet rich plasma and corticosteroid in treatment of lateral epicondylitis and plantar fasciitis: randomized clinical trial

This randomized controlled study was designed to compare the effectiveness of local injection of autologous platelet rich plasma [PRP] and local steroid in reducing pain and improving function in a cohort of patients with tennis elbow [TE] and plantar fasciitis [PF]. The study population comprised two groups; Group 1 patients with TE [n = 30] and Group 2 patients with PF [n = 30]. In each group patients were allocated randomly to receive either a steroid or PRP injections. All patients filled in visual analog scale [VAS], disability of arm, shoulder and hand [DASH] score for TE and foot health status questionnaire [FHSQ] for PF at base line and after 6 weeks. Relative to TE group of patients significant differences were observed between VAS and DASH scores at base line and 6 weeks after treatment in both groups [p < 0.001]. While no significant differences were observed relative to VAS and DASH score changes between both groups [p > 0.05]. In PF patients comparison of VAS and FHSQ at base line and 6 weeks after treatment between control group and PRP group showed significant differences for VAS [p = 0.005 and p < 0.001, respectively], and for FHSQ [p = 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively]. While highly significant difference were observed between both groups regarding VAS and FHSQ changes [p = 0.001]. Local injection of autologous PRP proved to be a promising form of therapy for TE and PF. It is both safe and effective in relieving pain and improving function and superior to local steroids in PF

Pre- and postnatal development of rabbit small intestine; a light and scanning electron microscopic study

The small intestine is a highly differentiated organ that accomplishes both digestive and absorptive functions with great efficiency. The small intestine of rabbit was studied from early prenatal stage to full term in 15 fetuses and during the early days of life till maturity in 21 rabbits using light and scanning electron microscopy. In 15 days old fetuses, the epithelium was flat and stratified and the lumen was elliptical in shape. By the E18, the epithelial ridges were formed. The first rudimentary villus formation was formed in 21 days old fetuses and the true villi appeared by 24[th] days of gestation. At 27 days old fetuses, intestinal glands were not appeared yet. By the first day of postnatal life the duodenal glands appeared. The histological maturity of the rabbit small intestine occurred one month after birth. In conclusion, at all stages, the sequential morphologic changes of the rabbit small intestine developed to meet the structural and physiological demands during the fetal stage to be prepared to extra uterine life

Avoidable causes in pedicle instrumentation failure

The authors reviewed factors related to the surgical techniques attributed to surgeon-errors which result in failures of the construct of the internal fixation of thoracolumbar fractures through transpedicular screws systems, and how these could be avoided. The authors reviewed 280 consecutive patients with traumatic thoracolumbar fractures who underwent spinal surgical fixation with short segment transpedicular screw instrumentation at two institutions, between January 1997 and June 2005. All patients in this series were victims of high-force trauma. Among this series, 30 patients had a construct failure attributed to surgeon-related errors. Clinical evaluation of the patients was performed on admission and at postoperative period using ASIA scale. All patients were radiologically investigated by plane x-rays and computerized tomographic scan spine on admission and occasionally MRI and 3D CT scan of the spine when required. We used McAfee classification of thoracolumbar injuries. Surgical treatment was indicated in cases of biomechanical instability of the spine and/or if a neurologic deficit was imminent or already present, the patients were followed-up as regard to clinical and radiological evidence of construct failure. Thirty patients out of 280 patients with post-traumatic thoracolumbar injuries had construct failures. Main clinical presentation of construct failure was severe pain and inability to walk at postoperative period. Radiologically there was progressive spinal deformity with and without implant failures. The locations of the fractures in order of frequency were as follows: L1 in 18 cases, L2 in 7 cases, T12 in 5 cases. The construct failure was in the form of screw binding in 6 patients, screw breakage in 12 patients, screw/rod dislodgement in 3 patients, progressive kyphosis in 5 patients, disengaged screw's cup in 2 patients, and broken rods in 2 patients. Successful use of transpedicular screws in traumatic thoracolumbar fractures is predicated on understanding of biomechanical properties of both the spine and implants. Great attention must be directed to maintain the sagittal and coronal balances of the spine over the sacrum through reconstruction of comminuted anterior vertebral column and appropriate distraction of the construct. In spite of routine use of pedicle, screw has not been free of complications; the majority of construct failures is not actually device failures but instead is surgeon-related errors