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Nadeem A, Tahir HM, Khan AA. Plant age, crop stage and surrounding habitats: their impact on sucking pests and predators complex in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) field plots in arid climate at district Layyah, Punjab, Pakistan. BRAZ J BIOL 2021; 82:e236494. [PMID: 34133551 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.236494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sucking pests are major threat to cotton field crop which cause unbearable losses to the crop yield. Aim of the current study was to record seasonal dynamics of major sucking insect pests including whitefly, jassid, thrips and their natural arthropod predators i.e. green lacewings and spiders in cotton field plots. The effects of surrounding field crops on pests' density and predatory efficiency of predators were also recorded. For sampling and survey of insects, the visual counting was found to be the most efficient method for recording the abundance of insects, trailed by net sweeping and tapping. Whitefly was the most dominant sucking pest found on the vegetative stage of cotton, followed by jassid and thrips. Fluctuated populations of predatory arthropods, spiders and green lacewings were also recorded during whole cropping season however, the densities of pests and predators varied with crop phenology. Spiders' population was encouraging at both vegetative and flowering stage and also the same trend of jassid and whitefly were observed at both stages of the crop. Surrounding habitats showed non-significant effect on population densities of insect pests and predators. For abiotic factors, the spiders showed strong positive correlation with humidity and temperature. However, green lacewing was only positively correlated with humidity. On the other hand, the populations of whitefly, jassid and thrips showed non-significant correlation with both temperature and humidity. Overall densities of sucking insect pests were found above economic threshold level. The plant age, crop stage and surrounding habitats effect on the population fluctuation of pests as well as the predators' abundance. The future studies are also warranted to investigate the altered habitats and multiple trap cropping to find out their impact on unattended insect predators and parasitoids in cotton crop.
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Fatima K, Abbas SR, Zia M, Sabir SM, Khan RT, Khan AA, Hassan Z, Zaman R. Induction of secondary metabolites on nanoparticles stress in callus culture of Artemisia annua L. BRAZ J BIOL 2021; 81:474-483. [PMID: 33053134 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.232937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanoparticles are known bio elicitors in plant biotechnology. Different concentrations of ZnO, CuO and CoO nanoparticles were used for the enhanced accumulation of secondary metabolites and antioxidant activities in the callus derived from root, shoot and leaf of Artemisia annua L. Biomass of callus was somehow affected on high concentrations of Nps. Phenolic content was observed maximum (60µg) in shoot callus at 0.1mg/l of CuONps. Total antioxidant activity was observed maximum (33µg) in root callus at 0.1mg/l of ZnOnps. Total reducing power maximum (33µg) was observed in root callus at concentration of 0.05 mg/l of CoONps. Maximum radical scavenging activity was observed in shoot callus at 0.05mg/l of ZnONps. Rutin gallic acid and caffic acid were also determined in most of the samples by HPLC. The study concludes that different Nps have positive effect on the induction of secondary metabolites in A.annua plant.
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Khan W, Hadi N, Dad I, Panhwar WA, Khan T, Shah M, Imran, Khan AA, Habiba U, Khaliq G, Alam A. Euphlyctis Cyanophlyctis Schneider, 1799 (Amphibia: Dicroglossidae) in district Lower Dir, Pakistan. BRAZ J BIOL 2021; 82:e236496. [PMID: 34037074 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.236496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis (the skittering frog) is one of the most widespread species in Pakistan. Present study was aimed to know the presence of Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis in urban and rural areas of Lower Dir, the North-western Pakistan. A total of 33 frogs were collected, including 15 from rural and 18 from urban areas. The frogs were caught by hands covered with gloves instead of using nets. The collection was managed from August to October 2016 and from April to May 2018. Morphometric analysis, coloration as well as photographs of the frogs have been provided in detail. Skittering frogs were seen frequent in swampy areas near the water bodies. These frogs were mostly seen after sunset.
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Ahmad B, Yousafzai AM, Zeb A, Khan AA, Attaullah M, Ahmad S. In-vitro and in-vivo evaluation of the antibacterial potential of Typha elephantina. Trop Biomed 2021; 38:1-7. [PMID: 33797516 DOI: 10.47665/tb.38.1.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The present study was aimed to evaluate the in-vitro and in-vivo antibacterial effects of the Typha elephantina aqueous extract (TE.AQ), ethanolic extract (TE.ET) and T. elephantina methanolic extract (TE.ME) against eight selected clinical pathogens. The test samples were tested for in-vitro analysis (by disc diffusion method) at different concentrations of 5, 15, 25, 50 and 100 mg/dL against both gram positive and gram-negative strains. The highest potential was observed in TE.ME at a concentration of 100 mg/dL against Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibiting 19.67 ± 0.577 mm zone of inhibition (ZOI). The same fraction also showed good activity against Staphylococus aureus with ZOI of 17.50 ± 0.70 mm. The TE.ET was found most active against P. aeruginosa and Streptococcus pyogenes having ZOI of 18.53 ± 0.503 and 16.2 ± 1.55 mm respectively at a concentration of 100 mg/dL. The most sensitive bacteria P. aeruginosa was selected for in-vivo study (using poultry chicks) for induction of infection in chicks. The effects of TE.AQ, TE.ET and TE.ME were determined at concentrations of 300 mg/kg body weight based on hematological parameters, liver enzymes and gross pathological findings of lungs and livers. The findings of the in-vivo study in chick's model showed that treatment of experimental animals with TE.ME significantly restored the hematological parameters, liver enzymes and architecture of lungs and livers. Based on scientific evidence, the current study suggests that TE.ME may serve as a best and new natural antibacterial agent and can be used against infections caused by P. aeruginosa.
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Khan AA, Urs AB, Augustine J, Singh H. Comparative forensic analysis of reverse root canal filing and conventional method for DNA isolation from extracted teeth under different environmental conditions: A prospective study. THE JOURNAL OF FORENSIC ODONTO-STOMATOLOGY 2020; 38:35-41. [PMID: 33507165 PMCID: PMC8565656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The grinding of a whole tooth specimen has been considered the conventional method to extract genomic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in forensic science. However, we have tried the less destructive reverse root canal filing (RRCF) method without disturbing the morphology of the tooth to achieve competent amplifiable DNA. A total of 27 pairs of bilateral intact extracted teeth from the same subject were used in three different simulated environmental conditions for the respective RRCF and conventional methods: (a) soil burial for six months, (b) incineration at 200º C for four minutes, and (c) immersion in water for two months. Qualitative agarose gel electrophoresis assessment and downstream amplification were performed. The results showed significantly higher mean DNA concentration for the RRCF method in all three environmental conditions (p value = 0.008) in comparison to the conventional method. However, comparable qualitative results were found in both methods for the mean DNA concentration for incinerated (159.49 ng/ml), soil (119.52 ng/ml), and water (108.60 ng/ml) samples. It was concluded that the RRCF method is better quantitively (ng/ml) and comparable in terms of quality with respect to the conventional method, with the added advantage of preservation of the tooth morphology.
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Chandir S, Siddiqi DA, Khan AA, Abdullah S, Dharma VK, Shah MT, Khan AJ. Evaluating mobile conditional cash transfers for improving immunization coverage in Pakistan. Eur J Public Health 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckaa165.1252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Despite progress in increasing immunization coverage, poor uptake of vaccines remains a challenge, particularly in LMICs. In part, this is due to the poor socio-economic status of caregivers, lack of motivation, and parental procrastination. While there is evidence that large (≥100 USD) incentives can overcome these problems, research on small incentives that are more appropriate for an LMIC setting is sparse. Our study addresses this gap by evaluating the impact of small (≤12 USD) CCTs in increasing immunization coverage for children under the age of two.
Methods
A 2-year program utilizing two small incentive schemes of different amounts (high: USD9; low: USD5) was implemented in Shikarpur District, Pakistan. Caregivers (with children 0-24 months) visiting any of the 33 study immunization centers were given the opportunity to enroll. All consenting parent-child pairs were randomized in one of the two incentive schemes and incentives were disbursed following each immunization visit, using mobile money. A baseline and end-line survey was conducted to evaluate changes in pre-post coverage.
Results
A total of 63,336 participants were enrolled between March 2016 - April 2018, of which 41,483 were randomized in the high or low incentive schemes (remaining caregivers were enrolled in the no-incentive group). Results show a 13% and 28% increase in age-appropriate coverage for Measles-1 (M1) and fully immunized children (FIC) compared to the baseline (FIC:16%, M1: 38%). There was no difference in M1 coverage between the high and low incentive schemes.
Discussion
Small CCTs have induced positive behavioral change and are a powerful tool for improving immunization coverage and compliance within LMICs.
Key messages
Small mobile conditional cash transfers (USD<12) can serve as nudges to parents and lead to behavioral shifts resulting in improved immunization outcomes for children. There was no significant difference in outcomes between high and low incentives, indicating that small mobile conditional cash transfers were equally effective in improving immunization coverage.
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Ahmed HMA, Che Ab Aziz ZA, Azami NH, Farook MS, Khan AA, Mohd Noor NS, Ayoub AA, Imran ZA, Halim MS, Pai ARV, Kacharaju KR, Mohammad N, Nagendrababu V, Nabhan MS, Dummer PMH. Application of a new system for classifying root canal morphology in undergraduate teaching and clinical practice: a national survey in Malaysia. Int Endod J 2020; 53:871-879. [PMID: 32003029 DOI: 10.1111/iej.13271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate and compare the feedback of final year undergraduate dental students in eight Malaysian dental schools on the application of a new system for classifying root canal morphology in teaching and clinical practice. METHODS One PowerPoint presentation describing two classification systems for root canal morphology (Oral Surgery Oral Medicine Oral Pathology, 1974 38, 456 and its supplemental configurations, International Endodontic Journal 2017, 50, 761) was delivered to final year undergraduate dental students in eight dental schools in Malaysia by two presenters (each presented to four schools). To examine students' feedback on the utility of each system, printed questionnaires consisting of six questions (five multiple choice questions and one open-ended question) were distributed and collected after the lecture. The questionnaire was designed to compare the classification systems in terms of accuracy, practicability, understanding of root canal morphology and recommendation for use in pre-clinical and clinical courses. The exact test was used for statistical analysis, with the level of significance set at 0.05 (P = 0.05). RESULTS A total of 382 (out of 447) students participated giving a response rate of 86%. More than 90% of students reported that the new system was more accurate and more practical compared with the Vertucci system (P < 0.001). Overall, 97% of students reported the new system helped their understanding of root and canal morphology compared with the Vertucci classification (P < 0.001). Over 97% of students recommended the use of the new system in teaching, pre-clinical courses and clinical practice (P < 0.001). Except for two schools, no significant difference was detected between the responses of students for all questions at the different schools (P > 0.05). The students' responses for all questions were almost similar for both presenters (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The new system of International Endodontic Journal 2017, 50, 761 for classifying root and canal morphology was favoured by final year undergraduate dental students in Malaysia. The new system has the potential to be included in the undergraduate endodontic curriculum for teaching courses related to root and canal morphology.
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Khan AA, Al-Khureif AA, Saadaldin SA, Mohamed BA, Musaibah ASO, Divakar DD, Eldwakhly E. Graphene oxide-based experimental silane primers enhance shear bond strength between resin composite and zirconia. Eur J Oral Sci 2019; 127:570-576. [PMID: 31823433 DOI: 10.1111/eos.12665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite various mechanical and chemical surface-pretreatment methods, long-term bonding of resin composite to dental zirconia (ZrO2 ) remains a major concern. In this study, graphene oxide (GO) sheets were infused into two commercially available primers and the enclosed mould shear bond strength (EM-SBS) of resin composite to ZrO2 was evaluated. Twelve fully sintered ZrO2 blanks were pretreated and randomly allocated to four groups according to the primers used: RelyX (RX); GO blended RelyX (RXGO); Monobond-S (MB); and GO blended Monobond-S (MBGO). The resin composite stubs were bonded onto the pretreated ZrO2 surfaces and analysed at baseline and after storage in distilled water for 2 and 4 months. The experimental primers blended with GO sheets influenced the surface morphology, visualized as increased surface roughness, and slightly increased the water contact angle measurements. Moreover, the infusion of primers with GO increased the mass fraction (wt%) of carbon and oxygen. The highest EM-SBS values were found for RXGO, with mean (SD) EM-SBS values of 26.4 (3.7) MPa and 21.5 (5.1) MPa after 2 and 4 months of storage, respectively. Infusion of silane primers with nanometre- to micrometre-size GO sheets enhanced the SBS between resin composite and ZrO2 .
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Khan AA, Mohamed BA, Al-Shamrani SS, Ramakrishnaiah R, Perea-Lowery L, Säilynoja E, Vallittu PK. Influence of Monomer Systems on the Bond Strength Between Resin Composites and Polymerized Fiber-Reinforced Composite upon Aging. THE JOURNAL OF ADHESIVE DENTISTRY 2019; 21:509-516. [PMID: 31802066 DOI: 10.3290/j.jad.a43610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined the influence of different monomer systems on the tensile bond strength between a resin composite and a polymerized fiber-reinforced composite (FRC). The influence of the age (shelf-life) of the FRC prepreg (reinforcing fiber pre-impregnated with a resin system) before preparing the FRC substrate for the bonding test was also assessed. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN)-based glass FRC prepregs were aged for various durations (1, 1.5, and 3 years) at 4°C before being used to prepare FRC substrates via light polymerization. Four groups of aged prepregs were prepared through different treatments with: 1. no primer; 2. a dimethacrylate-based adhesive primer; 3. a universal primer; and 4. a specific composite primer. Subsequently, a resin composite luting cement was applied on the treated FRC substrates and cured with light. The water sorption of the FRC-composite specimens was determined. Then, the differences in the tensile bond strength were evaluated using ANOVA (p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS There were significant differences in the tensile bond strength between the composite cement and the FRC according to the primer used (p < 0.001), aging time (p < 0.001), and their interactive effect (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The monomers of the universal primer demonstrated the best ability to diffuse into the semi-IPN structure of the polymer matrix of FRC. This improved the interfacial bond strength between the composite cement and the FRC substrate.
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Khan BA, Cheng L, Khan AA, Ahmed H. Unsafe small clinics cause new human immunodeficiency virus outbreaks in Pakistan. J Hosp Infect 2019; 104:393-394. [PMID: 31606434 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2019.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Khan AA, Josse R, Kannu P, Villeneuve J, Paul T, Van Uum S, Greenberg CR. Hypophosphatasia: Canadian update on diagnosis and management. Osteoporos Int 2019; 30:1713-1722. [PMID: 30915507 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-019-04921-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare inherited disorder of bone and mineral metabolism caused by loss of function mutations in the ALPL gene. The presentation in children and adults can be extremely variable and natural history is poorly understood particularly in adults. Careful patient evaluation is required with consideration of pharmacologic intervention in individuals meeting criteria for therapy. INTRODUCTION The purposes of this review are to present current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of hypophosphatasia in children and adults and provide evidence-based recommendations for management. METHOD A MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane database search and literature review was completed. The following consensus recommendations were developed based on the highest level of evidence as well as expert opinion. RESULTS Hypophosphatasia is a rare inherited disorder of bone and mineral metabolism due to loss of function mutations in the tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) gene causing reductions in the activity of the tissue non-specific isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP). Deficient levels of alkaline phosphatase result in elevation of inhibitors of mineralization of the skeleton and teeth, principally inorganic pyrophosphate. The impaired skeletal mineralization may result in elevations in serum calcium and phosphate. Clinical features include premature loss of teeth, metatarsal and subtrochanteric fractures as well as fragility fractures. Poor bone healing post fracture has been observed. Myalgias and muscle weakness may also be present. In infancy and childhood, respiratory and neurologic complications can occur. CONCLUSIONS HPP is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Pharmacologic intervention can result in significant clinical improvement. This Canadian position paper provides an overview of the musculoskeletal, renal, dental, respiratory, and neurologic manifestations of hypophosphatasia. The current state of the art in the diagnosis and management of hypophosphatasia is presented.
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Khan AA, Josse R, Kannu P, Villeneuve J, Paul T, Van Uum S, Greenberg CR. Correction to: Hypophosphatasia: Canadian update on diagnosis and management. Osteoporos Int 2019; 30:1541. [PMID: 31143988 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-019-05012-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In the article mentioned above an author's name was misspelled.
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Lindegren A, Schultz I, Sinha I, Cheung L, Khan AA, Tekle M, Wickman M, Halle M. Autologous fat transplantation alters gene expression patterns related to inflammation and hypoxia in the irradiated human breast. Br J Surg 2019; 106:563-573. [PMID: 30802303 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.11072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiation-induced fibrosis, an adverse effect of breast cancer treatment, is associated with functional and cosmetic impairment as well as surgical complications. Clinical reports suggest improvement following autologous fat transplantation, but the mechanisms underlying this effect are unknown. A global gene expression analysis was undertaken to identify genetic pathways dysregulated by radiation and evaluate the impact of autologous fat transplantation on gene expression. METHODS Adipose tissue biopsies were taken synchronously from irradiated and contralateral non-irradiated breasts, before and 1 year after autologous fat transplantation. Whole-genome gene expression analyses were performed, and Hallmark gene set analysis used to explore the effect of radiotherapy and autologous fat transplantation on gene expression. RESULTS Forty microarrays were analysed, using bilateral biopsies taken from ten patients before and after autologous fat transplantation. Forty-five pathways were identified among the 3000 most dysregulated transcripts after radiotherapy in irradiated compared with non-irradiated breast (P ≤ 0·023; false discovery rate (FDR) no higher than 0·026). After autologous fat transplantation, 575 of the 3000 genes were again altered. Thirteen pathways (P ≤ 0·013; FDR 0·050 or less) were identified; the top two canonical pathways were interferon-γ response and hypoxia. Correlative immunohistochemistry showed increased macrophage recruitment in irradiated tissues. CONCLUSION The present findings contribute to understanding of how autologous fat transplantation can ameliorate radiation-induced fibrosis. This further supports the use of autologous fat transplantation in the treatment of radiation-induced fibrosis. Surgical relevance Clinical studies have indicated that autologous fat transplantation (AFT) stimulates regression of chronic inflammation and fibrosis caused by radiotherapy in skin and subcutaneous fat. However, there is a paucity of biological evidence and the underlying processes are poorly understood. Human data are scarce, whereas experimental studies have focused mainly either on the effect of irradiation or AFT alone. The present results indicate that radiotherapy causes dysregulated gene expression in fibrosis-related pathways in adipose tissues in humans. They also show that AFT can cause a reversal of this, with several dysregulated genes returning to nearly normal expression levels. The study provides biological evidence for the impact of AFT on radiation-induced dysregulated gene expression in humans. It supports the use of AFT in the treatment of radiation-induced fibrosis, associated with severe morbidity and surgical challenges.
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Giangregorio LM, Gibbs JC, Templeton JA, Adachi JD, Ashe MC, Bleakney RR, Cheung AM, Hill KD, Kendler DL, Khan AA, Kim S, McArthur C, Mittmann N, Papaioannou A, Prasad S, Scherer SC, Thabane L, Wark JD. Build better bones with exercise (B3E pilot trial): results of a feasibility study of a multicenter randomized controlled trial of 12 months of home exercise in older women with vertebral fracture. Osteoporos Int 2018; 29:2545-2556. [PMID: 30091064 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-018-4652-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED We pilot-tested a trial of home exercise on individuals with osteoporosis and spine fracture. Our target enrollment was met, though it took longer than expected. Participants stayed in the study and completed the exercise program with no safety concerns. Future trials should expand the inclusion criteria and consider other changes. PURPOSE Osteoporotic fragility fractures create a substantial human and economic burden. There have been calls for a large randomized controlled trial examining the effect of exercise on fracture incidence. The B3E pilot trial was designed to evaluate the feasibility of a large trial examining the effects of home exercise on individuals at high risk of fracture. METHODS Community-dwelling women ≥ 65 years with radiographically confirmed vertebral compression fractures were recruited at seven sites in Canada and Australia. We randomized participants in a 1:1 ratio to a 12-month home exercise program or equal attention control group, both delivered by a physiotherapist (PT). Participants received six PT home visits in addition to monthly phone calls from the PT and a blinded research assistant. The primary feasibility outcomes of the study were recruitment rate (20 per site in 1 year), retention rate (75% completion), and intervention adherence rate (60% of weeks meeting exercise goals). Secondary outcomes included falls, fractures and adverse events. RESULTS One hundred forty-one participants were recruited; an average of 20 per site, though most sites took longer than anticipated. Retention and adherence met the criteria for success: 92% of participants completed the study; average adherence was 66%. The intervention group did not differ significantly in the number of falls (IRR 0.97, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.63) or fragility fractures (OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.60 to 2.05) compared to the control group. There were 18 serious adverse events in the intervention group and 12 in the control group. CONCLUSION An RCT of home exercise in women with vertebral fractures is feasible but recruitment was a challenge. Suggestions are made for the conduct of future trials.
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Khan AA, Hernan I, Adamthwaite JA, Ramsey KWD. Feasibility study of combined dynamic imaging and lymphaticovenous anastomosis surgery for breast cancer-related lymphoedema. Br J Surg 2018; 106:100-110. [PMID: 30295931 DOI: 10.1002/bjs.10983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL) presents a significant healthcare burden and adversely affects quality of life of breast cancer survivors. A prospective feasibility study was performed on lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) for the treatment of BCRL. METHODS Patients with BCRL underwent near-infrared spectroscopy with indocyanine green lymphatic mapping to identify suitable lymphatic channels for LVA. End-to-end anastomoses to subdermal venules were performed and patients recommenced compression garment therapy (CGT) after surgery. Volumetric assessment of the affected limb was performed at regular intervals using infrared perometry to calculate the excess volume reduction. RESULTS Over a 24-month interval, 27 patients with BCRL underwent LVA. The mean duration of lymphoedema was 3·5 (range 0·5-18) years, and the mean number of LVAs performed was 3 (range 2-5). Twenty-four of the 27 patients completed 12-month follow-up. Patients exhibited three patterns of volumetric response following LVA: sustained response (16 patients), transient response (5) or no response (6). Sustained responders showed an excess volume reduction of -33·2 per cent at 12 months, and this correlated positively with the number of LVAs performed (r = -0·56, P = 0·034). Overall, ten patients were able to downgrade CGT after surgery, and two patients were CGT-free at 12 months. CONCLUSION LVA resulted in a sustained volume reduction in selected patients and may offset the burden of CGT. Further work is required to identify biomarkers that predict a favourable response to LVA surgery.
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Khan AA, Shahid F, Lip GYH, Shantsila E. P670Predictors of exercise capacity in the elderly population with permanent atrial fibrillation and preserved left ventricular function. Eur Heart J 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy564.p670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Vishwakarma SK, Lakkireddy C, Sravani G, Sastry BVS, Raju N, Ahmed SI, Khan AA, Owaisi N, Jaisawal A, Khan MA, Khan AA. Association of CD14 and macrophage migration inhibitory factor gene polymorphisms with inflammatory microRNAs expression levels in ankylosing spondylitis and polyarthralgia. Int J Immunogenet 2018; 45:190-200. [PMID: 29863307 DOI: 10.1111/iji.12366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the genetic basis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and polyarthralgia (PA) conditions among Indian subjects through genotyping two immune regulatory genes CD14 (-159C>T) and MIF (-173G>C) and find their association with the expression levels of three circulating inflammatory miRNAs. This investigation may provide early genetic cause of these two forms of arthritis and more optimal biological targets to predict early therapeutic outcomes. A total of 140 patients (AS: 70 and PA: 70) and 156 controls were recruited from Indian population. CD14 and MIF genotyping was performed using ARMS-PCR. Expression level of three inflammatory miRNAs (miRNA-146a, miRNA-155 and miRNA-181) was quantified using RT-qPCR. C/T genotype of CD14 gene was found to cause 2.06-fold risk of developing AS (CI 1.06-5.98, p = .04) as compared to others and G/C genotype in MIF also shown significant variation between AS and control subjects. In PA subjects, CD14 genotypes (C/T) was found to be associated with disease susceptibility and G/C genotype of MIF gene polymorphism showed 4.71-fold risk of developing PA (CI 2.58-8.62, p = .0001). The study also revealed significant upregulation of miRNA-155 expression in AS subjects (p = .0001) with more than 1.3-fold difference between AS and PA as compared to the control subjects. miRNA-155 had strong association with AS patients with CD14 genotypes (p < .05) than PA and control subjects. This study provides better understanding of the mechanisms and disease susceptibility for MIF and CD14 genetic variants and inflammatory miRNAs networks involved in AS and PA.
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Khan AA, Lip GYH. Role of chronic kidney disease and atrial fibrillation in outcomes of patients with ischemic stroke. Eur J Neurol 2018; 25:1009-1010. [PMID: 29682860 DOI: 10.1111/ene.13664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Khan AA, Al-Kheraif AA, Al-Shehri AM, Säilynoja E, Vallittu PK. Polymer matrix of fiber-reinforced composites: Changes in the semi-interpenetrating polymer network during the shelf life. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2018; 78:414-419. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2017.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 11/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Agarwal SK, Khan AA, Solan M, Lemon M. Hip fracture surgery in mixed-use emergency theatres: is the infection risk increased? A retrospective matched cohort study. Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2017; 99:641-644. [PMID: 29046102 PMCID: PMC5696939 DOI: 10.1308/rcsann.2017.0183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence recommends that people with hip fracture should have surgery on the day of, or the day after, admission. However, there remains unacceptable variation in performance around the country, with a range of 13-91% of patients meeting this target. Dedicated trauma lists have insufficient capacity in many hospitals. We occasionally employ a mixed-use emergency theatre to facilitate early surgery. Increased risk of infection has been raised as a concern owing to microbial surface contamination from a preceding unclean case and lack of laminar flow in these theatres. The objective of this study was to investigate whether there is an increased risk of surgical site infections in patients who had hip fracture surgery in a mixed-use emergency theatre. Methods Between August 2010 and July 2014, 74 patients had hip fracture surgery in a mixed-use emergency theatre without laminar flow. This group was compared with a control group of patients who had hip fracture surgery in dedicated orthopaedic theatres with laminar flow. Infection was the primary outcome measured. Results There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of infection, length of stay or 30-day mortality, readmission or reoperation rates between the two groups. Conclusions Operating on hip fractures in mixed-use theatre did not lead to an increase in infection or other complications in our series. We feel that the risk of infection can be balanced against advantages of timely operation and it may therefore be justified to use these theatres when faced with lack of time on the trauma list. A much larger series would be required to investigate the effects of confounders.
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Khan AA, El-Sayed A, Akbar A, Mangravita-Novo A, Bibi S, Afzal Z, Norman DJ, Ali GS. A highly efficient ligation-independent cloning system for CRISPR/Cas9 based genome editing in plants. PLANT METHODS 2017; 13:86. [PMID: 29075312 PMCID: PMC5644101 DOI: 10.1186/s13007-017-0236-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/07/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most current methods for constructing guide RNAs (gRNA) for the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system, depend on traditional cloning using specific type IIS restriction enzymes and DNA ligation. These methods consist of multiple steps of cloning, and are time consuming, resource intensive and not flexible. These issues are particularly exacerbated when multiple guide RNAs need to be assembled in one plasmid such as for multiplexing or for the paired nickases approach. Furthermore, identification of functional gRNA clones usually requires expensive in vitro screening. Addressing these issues will greatly facilitate usage and accessibility of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system to resource-limited laboratories. RESULTS To improve efficiency of cloning multiple guide RNAs for the CRISPR/Cas9 system, we developed a restriction enzyme- and ligation-independent strategy for cloning gRNAs directly in plant expression vectors in one step. Our method relies on a negative selection marker and seamless cloning for combining multiple gRNAs directly in a plant expression vector in one reaction. In addition, using the Agrobacterium-mediated transient assays, this method provides a simple in planta procedure for assaying the effectiveness of multiple gRNAs very rapidly. CONCLUSIONS For a fraction of resources used in the type IIS restriction enzyme-based cloning method and in vitro screening assays, the system reported here allows efficient construction and testing several ready-to-transfect gRNA constructs in < 3 days. In addition, this system is highly versatile and flexible, and by designing only two additional target-specific primers, multiple gRNAs can be easily assembled in any plasmid in a single reaction.
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Thompson SD, Shand Smith JD, Khan AA, Luoma AMV, Toma AK, Watkins LD. Shunting of the over 80s in normal pressure hydrocephalus. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2017; 159:987-994. [PMID: 28421283 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-017-3171-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus is predominantly a disease of the elderly. By its nature, many of those who present to clinic are in advanced old age with multiple comorbidities. Majority of patients treated are younger than 80 years old. We present the clinical outcomes and complication rates of patients over the age of 80 years at the time of operation, during the past 11 years at a single institution. METHODS Retrospective analysis of clinical records of all patients over the age of 80 years, who presented to our institution between 2006 and 2016. Results were analysed for co-morbidities, immediate and delayed complications, change in mobility/cognitive function post shunting of hydrocephalus. RESULTS 39 patients (24 male, 15 female) met criteria. Mean [SD] age at the time of shunt insertion was 84 years (+/- 3.22) (range 80-94). No patients developed immediate CSF infection or sub-dural collection, or extended length of stay due to surgical or anaesthetic complications. There were no peri-operative or anaesthetic complications. 4 patients required a delayed surgical revision to encourage greater CSF drainage. 3 patients went on to develop delayed subdural haematoma, 1 of which was associated with trauma, 2 through overdrainage. 1 patient experienced poor post-operative wound healing and subsequently underwent removal of shunt. Of the 34 patient followed up, 27 patients (79.4%) improved in their mobility. (64.7%) patients/families reported symptomatic improvement in their cognition and memory. 6 (17.7%) patients did not experience an improvement in either mobility or cognitive function. CONCLUSIONS Our data supports the assertion that, with proper patient selection, shunting of the over 80s with iNPH is a safe and effective procedure.
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Khan AA, Hanley DA, Rizzoli R, Bollerslev J, Young JEM, Rejnmark L, Thakker R, D'Amour P, Paul T, Van Uum S, Shrayyef MZ, Goltzman D, Kaiser S, Cusano NE, Bouillon R, Mosekilde L, Kung AW, Rao SD, Bhadada SK, Clarke BL, Liu J, Duh Q, Lewiecki EM, Bandeira F, Eastell R, Marcocci C, Silverberg SJ, Udelsman R, Davison KS, Potts JT, Brandi ML, Bilezikian JP. Primary hyperparathyroidism: review and recommendations on evaluation, diagnosis, and management. A Canadian and international consensus. Osteoporos Int 2017; 28:1-19. [PMID: 27613721 PMCID: PMC5206263 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-016-3716-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to assess the most recent evidence in the management of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and provide updated recommendations for its evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. A Medline search of "Hyperparathyroidism. Primary" was conducted and the literature with the highest levels of evidence were reviewed and used to formulate recommendations. PHPT is a common endocrine disorder usually discovered by routine biochemical screening. PHPT is defined as hypercalcemia with increased or inappropriately normal plasma parathyroid hormone (PTH). It is most commonly seen after the age of 50 years, with women predominating by three to fourfold. In countries with routine multichannel screening, PHPT is identified earlier and may be asymptomatic. Where biochemical testing is not routine, PHPT is more likely to present with skeletal complications, or nephrolithiasis. Parathyroidectomy (PTx) is indicated for those with symptomatic disease. For asymptomatic patients, recent guidelines have recommended criteria for surgery, however PTx can also be considered in those who do not meet criteria, and prefer surgery. Non-surgical therapies are available when surgery is not appropriate. This review presents the current state of the art in the diagnosis and management of PHPT and updates the Canadian Position paper on PHPT. An overview of the impact of PHPT on the skeleton and other target organs is presented with international consensus. Differences in the international presentation of this condition are also summarized.
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Bostan N, Naeem M, Afzal MS, Shah ZH, Mustafa I, Arshad M, Haider W, Khan AA, Asif S, Khan MR, Ahmad SS, Ali S, Naveed M, Ahmed H. Sero-prevalence of Hepatitis B and C Virus from rural areas of northern Punjab (Sargodha District), Pakistan. Trop Biomed 2016; 33:599-607. [PMID: 33579055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Pakistan is endemic for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections with 10 and 11 million infections, respectively. The epidemiological studies of these virus showed that the information is only from few cities of the country and is relevant to high risk groups. It is of great importance to have an idea about the prevalence of infectious agents in general population to help in identification of hot spot for infections. Identification of hot spots will help in disease management for future. As the there is no report form district Sargodha (Punjab Province) so this study was designed to analyze the prevalence of HBV and HCV in general population. Blood samples of 2373 randomly selected individuals from six different tehsils were collected and were analyzed for HBV and HCV sero-positivity. An overall prevalence of both HBV and HCV in district Sargodha was 28.10% (667/2373). HCV prevalence was (20.01%) and HBV seropositivity was (8.09%). Males were more infected than females, and a significant difference was found in positive cases between male (58.77%) and female (41.22%). The most common routes of transmission of hepatitis virus in present study were shaving assisted by barbers in male patients 143 (21.43%), non sterile or used needles and syringes 127 (19.04%), dental surgical procedures 88 (13.19%), and sharing razors in males 49 (7.34%). In female patients a significant factor is labor and child birth process. Most cases of hepatitis were seen in mesons, farmers and house wives. The prevalence of HBV and HCV in general population of district Sargodha is very high. The study will help for better management of disease to contain the disease spread. The study highlighted that District Sargodha is endemic for these viral infections and it is highly warranted to carry out more studies to get better idea about the infection spread. Community education campaigns are also highly warranted to general population as well as high risk population to control future disease spread.
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Khan AA. Amoxycillin in the Treatment of Childhood Pneumonia. J Int Med Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/030006057500300402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Amoxycillin ('Amoxil') a new semi-synthetic penicillin was used in the treatment of pneumonia in 30 children. A very satisfactory clinical cure was effected in all cases on a dosage requirement of 125 mg eight hourly for 5-8 days. There were no side-effects. In view of its regimen of three times daily dosage, proven efficacy and facility of administration with food it should be usefully recommended for routine out-patient/in-patient therapy of childhood pneumonia.
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