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Ali N, Hayat T, Sajid M. Peristaltic flow of a couple stress fluid in an asymmetric channel. Biorheology 2007; 44:125-38. [PMID: 17538203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents an analysis of the peristaltic flow of a couple stress fluid in an asymmetric channel. The asymmetric nature of the flow is introduced through the peristaltic waves of different amplitudes and phases on the channel walls. Mathematical modelling corresponding to a two-dimensional flow has been carried out. The flow analysis is presented under long wavelength and low Reynolds number approximations. Closed form solutions for the axial velocity, stream function and the axial pressure gradient are given. Numerical computations have been carried out for the pressure rise per wavelength, friction forces and trapping. It is noted that there is a decrease in the pressure when the couple stress fluid parameter increases. The variation of the couple stress fluid parameter with the size of the trapped bolus is also similar to that of pressure. Furthermore, the friction force on the lower channel wall is greater than that on the upper channel wall.
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Maheshwari RK, Deswal S, Tiwari D, Ali N, Pothen B, Jain S. Novel spectrophotometric estimation of frusemide using hydrotropic solubilization phenomenon. Indian J Pharm Sci 2007. [DOI: 10.4103/0250-474x.39443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Börgermann J, Hakim K, Kuss O, Simm A, Scheubel R, Kroll H, Schlünken S, Ali N, Silber RE, Friedrich I. Beating versus arrested heart coronary revascularization: Randomized controlled trial in 596 unselected patients (3CAB-STUDY). Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2007. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-967521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Dogo D, Gali BM, Ali N, Nggada HA. Male breast cancer in north eastern Nigeria. Niger J Clin Pract 2006; 9:139-41. [PMID: 17319346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carcinoma of the male breast is generally rare and constitutes 1% of all breast cancers. They often present late in developing countries and therefore has poor prognosis. The aim of this paper is to highlight the pattern of presentation and problems associated with management of this disease in Maiduguri, North Eastern Nigeria. PATIENTS AND METHOD Case records of eleven (11) histologically diagnosed male breast cancers out of a total of two hundred and ninety-five (295) cases of breast cancer managed at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital between 1989-2003 were retrospectively studied and analysed. RESULTS Male breast cancer constitutes 3.7% of all cases of breast cancers seen in this hospital during the study period under review. The male to female ratio was 1:26. The peak age range at presentation was 40-49 years and all were advanced at presentation. The time interval between onset of symptoms and presentation were all over 12 months. All the patients either had toilet mastectomy or modified radical mastectomy. In addition, two patients had sub capsular orchidectomy while nine had Tamoxifen. Four patients had additional cytotoxic chemotherapy. Two patients died in the course of follow-up while the rest were lost to follow-up shortly after discharge. Only one patient was followed-up for more than two years. CONCLUSION Male breast cancer though rare, is a serious clinical problem associated with late presentation. It is hoped that increased public awareness will improve the outcome of management.
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Ali N, Khan AA, Akunjee M, Ahfat F. Using common ophthalmologic jargon in correspondence can lead to miscommunication. Br J Gen Pract 2006; 56:968-9. [PMID: 17132387 PMCID: PMC1934059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
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Ali N. Comment on ‘smoking delays the response to treatment in episcleritis and scleritis’. Eye (Lond) 2006; 20:1412; author reply 1412-3. [PMID: 16470220 DOI: 10.1038/sj.eye.6702267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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Millns PJ, Chimenti M, Ali N, Ryland E, de Lago E, Fernandez-Ruiz J, Chapman V, Kendall DA. Effects of inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase vs. the anandamide membrane transporter on TRPV1-mediated calcium responses in adult DRG neurons; the role of CB1receptors. Eur J Neurosci 2006; 24:3489-95. [PMID: 17229097 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.05236.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between TRPV1 stimulation and endocannabinoid-driven CB(1) receptor-mediated inhibition of activity in adult rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, a model of primary afferent nociceptors. Calcium-imaging studies were performed to compare the effects of the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB597 (1 microm) vs. the anandamide (AEA) uptake inhibitor UCM707 (1 microm) on capsaicin (100 nm) and N-arachidonoyl dopamine (NADA; 1 microm)-evoked changes in intracellular calcium [Ca(2+)](i) in DRG neurons. The ability of the CB(1) receptor antagonist AM251 (1 microm) to modulate the effects of URB597 and UCM707 was also determined. Suprafusion of NADA and capsaicin evoked robust increases in [Ca(2+)](i) in DRG neurons (89 +/- 4% and 132 +/- 6% of the depolarizing KCl response, respectively). Co-incubation with URB597 significantly attenuated both NADA and capsaicin-evoked increases in [Ca(2+)](i) (39 +/- 3% and 79 +/- 4% of KCl response, respectively). Similarly, co-incubation with UCM707 significantly attenuated both NADA and capsaicin-evoked increases in [Ca(2+)](i) (59 +/- 7% and 72 +/- 4% of KCl response, respectively). The CB(1) receptor antagonist AM251 significantly attenuated the effects of URB597 on NADA-evoked increases in [Ca(2+)](i) but not the effects of URB597 on capsaicin-evoked increases in [Ca(2+)](i). By contrast, AM251 significantly attenuated the inhibitory effects of UCM707 on both NADA and capsaicin-evoked increases in [Ca(2+)](i.) These data suggest that transport of both NADA and capsaicin into DRG neurons and the subsequent activation of TRPV1 is partly governed by FAAH-dependent mechanisms as well as via the putative AEA membrane transporter.
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Ali N, Carter J, Cheng L, Coghlan K, Hardee P, Holmes S. Opportunistic and reprehensible. Br Dent J 2006; 200:359. [PMID: 16607295 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.4813433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Ali N, Eni UE. Corrosive-induced gastric outlet obstruction without oesphageal involvement: a case report. NIGERIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2005; 14:436-8. [PMID: 16353711 DOI: 10.4314/njm.v14i4.37208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this paper is to report an unusual case of isolated gastric outlet obstruction following corrosive ingestion. METHOD A case report of a 28-year old female seen by the authors. The literature on gastric outlet obstruction following ingestion of corrosives is reviewed briefly. RESULTS Features of worsening gastric outlet obstruction were found in this 28-year old female five months after ingestion of hydrochloric acid. There was an antecedent history of depressive illness. The upper gastrointestinal barium contrast radiographs showed a normal oesophagus and proximal stomach. The distal stomach was however scarred, contracted with severe antropyloric stenosis. She underwent nutritional rehabilitation with high protein diet and made an uneventful recovery after a gastrojejunostomy. CONCLUSION This case suggests a relative resistance of the oesophagus to corrosive acids as reported in the literature. The stomach, however, is more susceptible to acids causing burns with subsequent cicatrisation around the antrum and pylorus.
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Mishra SR, Dubenko I, Losby J, Ghosh LK, Khan M, Ali N. Anomalous magnetic properties of mechanically milled cobalt oxide nanoparticles. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2005; 5:2076-81. [PMID: 16430143 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2005.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Defect induced magnetic properties of CoO nanoparticles produced via mechanical ball milling have been assessed by detailed magnetic measurements. A progressive decrease in the particle size and a concomitant increase in the induced strain have been observed with the milling times. The mechanically milled nanoparticles of CoO exhibit anomalous magnetic properties such as FM hysteresis when compared with the unmilled CoO sample. The presence of weak ferromagnetism, with a highest value of magnetization of 0.532 emu/g at 10 K in the 100 h milled sample, is attributed to the uncompensated surface spins resulting from induced surface defects via mechanical milling. The ZFC coercive force, measured at 10 K, increases with milling time reaching a maximum value of 1066 Oe for the 100 h milled sample. The temperature dependent field-cooled (FC) and zero-field-cooled (ZFC) magnetic measurements indicate a presence of an exchange bias field arising from uncompensated moments generated by mechanical strain and the antiferromagnetic (AFM) core. The exchange bias field measured at 10 K reaches a value 210 Oe for the 50 h milled sample and decreases upon prolonged milling. The exchange bias field vanishes at a temperature approximately 200 K, a temperature much lower than the Neel temperature of CoO (TN approximately 291 K). The observed anomalous magnetic behavior of CoO could be interpreted in terms of the exchanged bias FM-AFM model.
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Mishra SR, Dubenko I, Losby J, Marasinghe K, Ali M, Ali N. Magnetic properties of magnetically soft nanocomposite Co-SiO2 prepared via mechanical milling. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2005; 5:2082-7. [PMID: 16430144 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2005.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Nanocomposite of Co-SiO2, a soft magnetic material, with Co weight fraction x = 0.3 and 0.7 was prepared via mechanical milling. The magnetic properties of these samples, both zero-field-cooled (ZFC) and field-cooled (FC), have been measured as a function of x, milling time, and temperature. The structural assessment of the composite indicates a presence of only ferromagnetic (FM) hcp-Co phase in the composite. However, reported magnetic properties of these composites appear to be dependent on the presence of antiferromagnetic (AFM) phases of cobalt oxide as well. The observed enhancement in ZFC coercivity and a reduction in saturation magnetization with the milling time are due to an increase in defect density upon milling. The ZFC coercivity for the x = 0.3 samples has been found to be much higher than the x = 0.7 samples for all milling times. The coercivity above 50 K depends on temperature according to the law corresponding to isotropic uniaxial superparamagnetic particles. Below 50 K the presence of an AFM phase Co3O4 (TN approximately 33 K) and increased interparticle interactions bring in a departure from that law. The saturation magnetization is found to be temperature dependent for the x = 0.3 samples and temperature independent for the x = 0.7 samples, which further provides evidence of the presence of higher AFM phase fraction in the composite with a low metal volume fraction. The FC magnetic measurements show a presence of an exchange bias field and an enhanced coercivity which are higher than the ZFC measurements. All magnetic measurements indicate that the overall magnetic properties of the composite are dictated by the presence of a trace amount of cobalt oxides.
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Ali N, Hashim NH, Saad B, Safan K, Nakajima M, Yoshizawa T. Evaluation of a method to determine the natural occurrence of aflatoxins in commercial traditional herbal medicines from Malaysia and Indonesia. Food Chem Toxicol 2005; 43:1763-72. [PMID: 16019122 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2005.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2004] [Revised: 05/16/2005] [Accepted: 05/24/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Traditional herbal medicines, popularly known as 'jamu' and 'makjun' in Malaysia and Indonesia, are consumed regularly to promote health. In consideration of their frequent and prolonged consumption, the natural occurrence of aflatoxins (AF) in these products was determined using immunoaffinity column clean-up and high-performance liquid chromatography with pre-column derivatization. The evaluated method, which entails dilution of sample extracts with Tween 20-phosphate buffered saline (1:9, v/v) and a chromatographic system using isocratic mobile phase composed of water-methanol-acetonitrile (70:20:10, v/v/v), was effective in separating AFB1, AFG1 and AFG2 from interference at their retention times. Results were confirmed using post-column derivatization with photochemical reactor. For 23 commercial samples analyzed, mean levels (incidence) of AFB(1), AFB(2) and AFG1 in positive samples were 0.26 (70%), 0.07 (61%) and 0.10 (30%) microg/kg, respectively; one sample was positive for AFG2 at a level of 0.03 (4%) microg/kg. In contrast to the high levels of AF in crude herbal drugs and medicinal plants reported previously by other researchers, the low contamination levels reported in this study may be attributed to the higher selectivity to AF of the method applied. Based on the AFB1 levels and the daily consumption of positive samples, a mean probable daily intake of 0.022 ng/kg body weight was calculated.
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Tobenas-Dujardin AC, Duparc F, Ali N, Laquerriere A, Muller JM, Freger P. Embryology of the internal carotid artery dural crossing: apropos of a continuous series of 48 specimens. Surg Radiol Anat 2005; 27:495-501. [PMID: 16314980 DOI: 10.1007/s00276-005-0018-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2005] [Accepted: 06/09/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe the embryologic and foetal development of the anterior paraclinoid region and more precisely the relationship of the internal carotid artery to the dura mater. This has been done by examining a collection of histological sections, representing a continuous series of 48 embryologic and foetal specimens, covering the period of the first 6 months of intra-uterine life. Neurological and vascular elements develop during the embryologic period; the internal carotid artery is recognizable in the various sections of its course and acquires a histological adult parietal constitution. The foetal period corresponds to the development of the meningeal structures. The superior, medial and lateral walls appear on the fifteenth week of amenorrhoea and do not change after that. The internal carotid artery enters subarachnoid space accompanied by a sleeve of mesenchymatous cells, which fixes it to the anterior clinoid process. The constitution of this sleeve, arising from the superior wall of the lateral sellar compartment, remained independent of the principle vascular part, which allows the formation of a plan of cleavage. The foetal relations of the dura mater and the internal carotid artery were seen to be different from those of adult subjects described in the literature, suggesting an existence of period of maturation postnatally.
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Khan E, Malik F, Qureshi I, Husaini S, Ali N, Mehmood A. Measurement of neutron fluence with CR-39 using a UV spectrophotometer. RADIAT MEAS 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radmeas.2005.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Cowley E, Thompson JP, Sharpe P, Waugh J, Ali N, Lambert DG. Effects of pre-eclampsia on maternal plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and umbilical cord urotensin II concentrations: a pilot study † †This work was presented at the Liverpool meeting of the Anaesthetic Research Society, July 8–9, 2004 (E. Cowley, J. Waugh, N. Ali, P. Sharpe, J. P. Thompson and D. G. Lambert. Urotensin II concentrations are not elevated in pre-eclampsia. Br J Anaesth 2004; 612P). Br J Anaesth 2005; 95:495-9. [PMID: 16126783 DOI: 10.1093/bja/aei222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urotensin II (UII) is the most potent endogenous vasoconstrictor identified to date. Pre-eclampsia is associated with arteriolar vasospasm but the precise underlying mechanism is uncertain and we hypothesized that UII concentrations might also be elevated. In this study we measured UII concentrations in maternal plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and umbilical vein plasma from pre-eclamptic (PET) and normotensive patients undergoing elective Caesarean section under spinal or combined spinal-epidural anaesthesia. METHODS With LREC approval and informed consent we recruited two groups of 10 patients; control [mean (range) age, 29 (22-43) yr; BMI, 25 (20-32); gestation, 273 (267-281) days; mean arterial pressure (MAP) on day of delivery, 81 (75-96) mm Hg] and PET [age, 34 (22-40) yr; BMI, 25 (21-46); gestation, 253 (203-289) days; MAP on day of delivery, 106 (88-128) mm Hg]. Maternal blood and CSF samples and umbilical vein blood samples were taken. UII was extracted and concentrations measured using a radioimmunoassay. RESULTS Two plasma and two CSF samples in the control and two CSF samples in the PET group were below the assay detection limits. There were no differences in maternal plasma or CSF or umbilical vein UII concentrations between the groups. However, there was a small ( approximately 40%) but significant increase in cord UII concentrations when compared with paired plasma in the PET group. There was a weak but significant negative correlation (r=-0.4, P=0.049) between cord UII concentrations and gestation in the PET group. In addition, we observed a significant positive correlation between plasma and CSF (r(2)=+0.57, P=0.0009, n=16), plasma and cord (r(2)=+0.43, P=0.0031, n=18) and CSF and cord (r(2)=+0.32, P=0.022, n=16) UII concentrations for the whole data set. CONCLUSIONS Collectively the data indicate that UII concentrations do not increase in PET compared with controls but, in PET patients, cord UII concentrations are elevated relative to paired plasma samples. Elevated umbilical vein UII concentrations may simply indicate reduced placental viability and possibly UII metabolism as a result of reduced blood flow or possibly that the placenta is producing UII.
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Lone GN, Bhat MA, Ali N, Ahangar AG, Dar AM, Sana I. Minimally invasive transthoracotomy–transphrenotomy for concurrent hepatic and pulmonary hydatid disease. Br J Surg 2005; 92:729-33. [PMID: 15892158 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.4950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Combined liver and lung hydatid cysts are rare, but pose a challenge in terms of accessibility. The objective of the study was to find an alternative approach to conventional two-stage posterolateral thoracotomy and laparotomy or single-stage extensive thoracolaparotomy.
Methods
Twenty-five patients with right lung and liver hydatid disease underwent single-stage anterior minithoracotomy and phrenotomy. Primary diagnostic tools were chest radiography, ultrasonography and serology. The preferred mode of management of hydatid cysts was enucleation and partial or total capitonnage.
Results
Thirty-six (13·5 per cent) of 267 patients had concurrent hepatic and pulmonary hydatid cysts. Among the 25 patients who had anterior minithoracotomy and phrenotomy the male : female ratio was 2 : 1. Mean operating time was 75 min. Morbidity was negligible and postoperative recovery was prompt. All of the patients survived. The mean hospital stay was 5·2 days. Overall observations were encouraging.
Conclusion
This minimally invasive approach is associated with less morbidity and better cosmesis than conventional procedures. It represents an excellent alternative to other procedures in selected patients.
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Mazumdar T, Anam K, Ali N. INFLUENCE OF PHOSPHOLIPID COMPOSITION ON THE ADJUVANTICITY AND PROTECTIVE EFFICACY OF LIPOSOME-ENCAPSULATED LEISHMANIA DONOVANI ANTIGENS. J Parasitol 2005; 91:269-74. [PMID: 15986599 DOI: 10.1645/ge-356r1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we evaluate the effect of phospholipid on the adjuvanicity and protective efficacy of liposome vaccine carriers against visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in a hamster model. Liposomes prepared with distearyol derivative of L-alpha-phosphatidyl choline (DSPC) having liquid crystalline transition temperature (Tc) 54 C were as efficient as dipalmitoyl (DPPC) (Tc 41 C) and dimyristoyl (DMPC) (Tc 23 C) derivatives in their ability to entrap Leishmania donovani membrane antigens (LAg) and to potentiate strong antigen-specific antibody responses. However, whereas LAg in DPPC and DMPC liposomes stimulated inconsistent delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses, strong DTH was observed with LAg in DSPC liposomes. The heightened adjuvant activity of DSPC liposomes corresponded with 95% protection, with almost no protectivity with LAg in DPPC and DMPC liposomes, 4 mo after challenge with L. donovani. These data demonstrate the superiority of DSPC liposomes for formulation of L. donovani vaccine. In addition, they demonstrate a correlation of humoral and cell-mediated immunity with protection against VL in hamsters.
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Solomon K, Webb J, Ali N, Robins RA, Mahida YR. Monocytes are highly sensitive to clostridium difficile toxin A-induced apoptotic and nonapoptotic cell death. Infect Immun 2005; 73:1625-34. [PMID: 15731062 PMCID: PMC1064958 DOI: 10.1128/iai.73.3.1625-1634.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study we investigated the in vitro responses of peripheral blood mononuclear preparations and purified monocytes to Clostridium difficile toxin A. In contrast to the responses of T and B cells, exposure to toxin A led to a rapid loss of monocytes in a time- and dose-dependent fashion (the majority of cells were lost within 24 h of exposure to >100 ng of toxin per ml). Transmission electron microscopy, flow cytometry, and fluorescence microscopy after propidium iodide and Hoechst staining showed that cell death in purified preparations of monocytes following exposure to 100 and 1,000 ng of toxin A per ml occurred by apoptosis. Further studies showed that 5,5',6,6'-tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethylbenzimidazole-carbocyanine iodide aggregates were retained within toxin A-exposed monocyte mitochondria, but cytochrome c was released, suggesting that the apoptotic cascade was triggered in the absence of mitochondrial permeability transition. There was also an increase in caspase-3 activity in toxin A-stimulated monocytes. Following exposure to very high concentrations of toxin A (30 microg/ml), monocyte cell death was predominantly of the necrotic type, with rapid extracellular release of lactate dehydrogenase. These studies demonstrated that C. difficile toxin A has a cell-specific effect, in which monocytes exhibit greater susceptibility than lymphocytes and their death is induced in a concentration-dependent manner.
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Börgermann J, Hakim K, Friedrich I, Hofmann S, Klesius A, Ali N, Silber R. Minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass grafting via partial inferior sternotomy. Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2005. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-862136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Babay Z, Al-Wakeel J, Addar M, Mittwalli A, Tarif N, Hammad D, Ali N, Al-Askar A, Choudhary AR. Serum cystatin C in pregnant women: reference values, reliable and superior diagnostic accuracy. CLIN EXP OBSTET GYN 2005; 32:175-9. [PMID: 16433158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A simple, endogenous, accurate and minimally invasive marker of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is much desired in clinical nephrology. Cystatin C fulfills all criteria to be a marker for GFR. For early detection of renal impairment in pregnant women, it is necessary to determine serum cystatin C reference values and the correlation with GFR. The present study was therefore undertaken. METHOD Healthy pregnant women were followed during pregnancy and the postnatal period. Patient demographics included age, height, weight, BMI, parity, total blood count, LFT, urea, creatinine, Na, K, and blood sugar. Serum cystatin C was estimated using particle enhanced nephlo-immunoassay method. All the parameters were recorded at the start of pregnancy and then in each trimester and the postnatal period. Regression analysis correlation coefficient, ANOVA and the Student's t-test were used for analysis using the SPSS statistical package. RESULTS A total of 197 pregnant women were included. Mean serum cystatin C for all the women was 0.82 +/- 0.184 mg/l. Serum cystatin C levels were high -0.89 +/- 0.12 mg/l in the first trimester, decreased significantly to 0.651 +/- 0.14 mg/l during the second trimester (p = 0.0000 compared to first trimester), and increased again to 0.82 +/- 0.191 mg/l in the third trimester. After delivery the level rose to 0.94 +/- 0.12 mg/l. A strong correlation was found between serum cystatin C and serum creatinine. A strong negative correlation was found between GFR and cystatin C values in the women (r = -0.546, p = 0.000). A linear relationship was found between GFR and cystatin C levels. A significant increase in the GFR was noted with the progression of pregnancy from 128.06 +/- 29.7 ml/min in the first trimester to 155.2 +/- 29.59 ml/min during second trimester (p = 0.006). A decline in the level of cystatin C exactly parallel to the increase in the GFR was noted with the progression of pregnancy. Interestingly cystatin C was found to have a strong negative correlation with gestational age (r = -0.663, p = 0.000). CONCLUSION Our results indicate that the mean serum cystatin C levels reflect changes in the GFR during the entire pregnancy and also in the postnatal period. Moreover, serum cystatin C levels are independent of age, height, weight, or blood sugar level. Cystatin C can be used for close supervision and early diagnosis of renal impairment in pregnant patients. Cystatin C is a reliable, useful and promising marker of GFR in pregnant women.
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Mommaerts MY, Ali N, Correia P. The concept of bimaxillary transverse osteodistraction: a paradigm shift? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 8:211-6. [PMID: 15293115 DOI: 10.1007/s10006-004-0548-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Severe crowding due to narrow upper and lower apical bases can be corrected by the extraction of four premolars, or by bimaxillary transverse osteodistraction. The first strategy is prone to unaesthetic changes in lip posture, nasolabial angle and buccal corridors. Life-long retention is necessary because of the known correlation between increased intercanine distance and relapse of crowding. The second strategy involves surgery and the final outcome regarding stability is not yet known. Theoretically, because the canines have not been moved outside of the skeletal envelope, and because the functional matrix positively influences the dental arches, relapse of crowding should be less. Facial appearance is improved because of the reduction of the buccal corridors and the fullness of the mouth both at rest, and upon smiling.
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Hakim K, Klesius AA, Friedrich I, Ali N, B�rgermann J, Silber RE. Off-pump (OPCAB) multivessel coronary artery surgery as an approach for high risk patients. Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2004. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-816836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Hoque BA, Hoque MM, Ahmed T, Islam S, Azad AK, Ali N, Hossain M, Hossain MS. Demand-based water options for arsenic mitigation: an experience from rural Bangladesh. Public Health 2004; 118:70-7. [PMID: 14643629 DOI: 10.1016/s0033-3506(03)00135-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A supply of safe drinking water is a recognized global concern. The arsenic contamination of groundwater in Bangladesh and other countries has furthered this concern. Lack of appropriate water options is one of the main barriers to the supply of safe drinking water for 30-60 million people who are exposed to the risk of drinking arsenic-contaminated water in Bangladesh. This paper describes the experience from a water supply programme for arsenic mitigation based on demand and participation of 30,000 rural people in Srinagar, a subdistrict of Bangladesh. About 85% of the 912 tubewell water samples tested had an arsenic content higher than 0.05 mg/l. The project promoted 11 options including groundwater, surface-water and rainwater-harvesting household-based options as well as community managed technologies. Most people, particularly women, wanted piped water, and hand-operated deep tubewells were also requested. Four cluster-based motorized piped water systems, 20 home-based arsenic-removal options (two types) and an arsenic-removal filter plant were installed. The public contributed about 49, 25 and 20% of the installation costs of piped water, home-based options and filter options, respectively, and 100% of all operation and maintenance costs. The household options and filter plant were abandoned within a few weeks. Reportedly, those options required too much attention, discharged small volumes of water at low rates, were difficult to maintain, and discharged poor-quality water. The proportion of families (54%) that drank arsenic-contaminated water during the final survey was significantly lower than in the baseline survey (87%). For arsenic-affected areas, it is recommended that a cluster-based piped water system be given proper consideration when selecting appropriate water options rather than household-based options or the development of new low-cost options.
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Ali N, Na'aya HU, Ngadda H. Cancer of the gall bladder: a report of three cases and a review of the literature. NIGERIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2003; 12:232-5. [PMID: 14768201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer of the gall bladder is an uncommon but highly lethal disease associated with cholelithiasis and chronic cholecystitis in occurrence. METHODS A report of three cases seen over six years at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) is presented together with a review of the literature. RESULTS Three cases were seen over a period of 6 years. There were two females and one male. The patients were aged 80, 50 and 65 years respectively. The 80 year old man and 50 year old female presented with right hypochondrial mass and pain. The third presented with features of multiple metastases involving the liver and omentum. The first two cases had cholecystectomy and limited resection of adjacent liver tissue. The third case had unresectable cancer with gross involvement of the liver, peritoneum and omentum; she died three weeks after exploratory laparotomy. CONCLUSION Cancer of the gall bladder is rare in this environment. A high index of suspicion in addition to ultrasound and computerized tomography helps in making an early diagnosis. This may improve the outcome of management.
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Mishra SR, Viano A, Roy S, Ali N, Losby J. Magnetic properties of iron nitride-silica nanocomposite materials prepared by high-energy ball milling. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2003; 3:227-230. [PMID: 14503406 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2003.161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Powder mixtures of (FexN)y and (SiO2)1-y, with x between 3 and 4 and y equal to 0.2 or 0.6, were ball-milled for 4, 8, 16, 32, and 64 h. X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, and magnetization measurements allowed an investigation of structural and magnetic properties to be carried out. The samples consist of nanostructured Fe3N and Fe4N particles in a SiO2 matrix. As the milling time increases, the Fe4N phase is eliminated from the particles in favor of Fe3N. Coercive fields as high as 270 and 84 Oe are obtained for (FexN)0.2(SiO2)0.8 at 5 and 300 K, respectively. This higher coercive field, upon cooling, indicates the presence of small superparamagnetic particles. The coercive field also increases with milling time, which is due to the reduced particle size and induced stain. The saturation magnetization decreases with increased milling time as a consequence of an increase in the superparamagnetic fraction and increased strain. Hard and soft magnetic properties are observed for y = 0.2 and y = 0.6 samples, respectively.
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