It is well known that cigarette smoking adversely afects human health and induces oxidative stres... more It is well known that cigarette smoking adversely afects human health and induces oxidative stress in most vital organs. Tis study aims to assess the biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural values of honey and garlic extracts in ameliorating the efects of short-term exposure to cigarette smoke in mice. Forty-eight mice were randomly divided into six equal groups: group I was exposed to fresh air only, group II was exposed to cigarette smoke, group III was given 0.2 ml of honey extract, group IV was exposed to cigarette smoke and was given 0.2 ml of honey extract, group V was given 0.2 ml of garlic extract, and group VI was exposed to cigarette smoke and was given 0.2 ml of aqueous garlic extract. Tese exposures were repeated daily for 21 consecutive days among the treated groups. By the end of the third week, the animals were euthanized by physical cervical dislocation. Blood was taken for biochemical study, and the selected organs of the liver, kidney, and jejunum were processed for histological and ultrastructural studies. Te biochemical results showed that short-term exposure of experimental mice to cigarette smoking did not alter the liver function tests except for decreasing the albumin level. Moreover, cigarette smoking elevates the concentration of carbonyl protein content and cystatin C. Histologically, the use of honey and garlic showed good protection to the liver, kidney, and jejunum, which was proved by transmission electron microscopy, in addition to lowering the oxidative stress biomarkers. In conclusion, using honey and/or garlic helps protect the liver, kidney, and jejunum against the hazardous efects of cigarette smoke.
It is well known that cigarette smoking adversely afects human health and induces oxidative stres... more It is well known that cigarette smoking adversely afects human health and induces oxidative stress in most vital organs. Tis study aims to assess the biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural values of honey and garlic extracts in ameliorating the efects of short-term exposure to cigarette smoke in mice. Forty-eight mice were randomly divided into six equal groups: group I was exposed to fresh air only, group II was exposed to cigarette smoke, group III was given 0.2 ml of honey extract, group IV was exposed to cigarette smoke and was given 0.2 ml of honey extract, group V was given 0.2 ml of garlic extract, and group VI was exposed to cigarette smoke and was given 0.2 ml of aqueous garlic extract. Tese exposures were repeated daily for 21 consecutive days among the treated groups. By the end of the third week, the animals were euthanized by physical cervical dislocation. Blood was taken for biochemical study, and the selected organs of the liver, kidney, and jejunum were processed for histological and ultrastructural studies. Te biochemical results showed that short-term exposure of experimental mice to cigarette smoking did not alter the liver function tests except for decreasing the albumin level. Moreover, cigarette smoking elevates the concentration of carbonyl protein content and cystatin C. Histologically, the use of honey and garlic showed good protection to the liver, kidney, and jejunum, which was proved by transmission electron microscopy, in addition to lowering the oxidative stress biomarkers. In conclusion, using honey and/or garlic helps protect the liver, kidney, and jejunum against the hazardous efects of cigarette smoke.
Hyoid bone measurements have been proposed to vary between different genders and age groups. The ... more Hyoid bone measurements have been proposed to vary between different genders and age groups. The aim of the study is to study hyoid morphometrics among Jordanian patients. 3D-CT scans of 637 patients were analyzed. Ten parameters of hyoid bone were measures, including the anteroposterior length, length of greater horns (right and left), height of greater horns (right and left), width of hyoid body, height of hyoid body, the distance between the midpoints of the posterior ends of the greater horns of the hyoid bone, the angle between right and left greater horns, and the distance of the hyoid bone to the vertebral column. Also, vertebral level, fusion rank, morphology of hyoid body lingula, and shape of hyoid bone were documented. All hyoid dimensions were longer in males, but greater horns angle was wider in females. In patients younger than 30 years, the parameters are the smallest with the widest angle. The distance from hyoid to vertebral column is higher in males (30-49) years of age. No fusion between hyoid body and greater horns was observed in patients younger than 10 years, but fusion (unilateral or bilateral) was found in only 73.2 % of patients ≥ 70 years. The hyoid was mostly at vertebra C3 level and "U" shaped. The lingula shape was mostly "Scar" in males (especially ≥ 50 years) and "Nothing" in females (especially < 50 years). The maximum growth of hyoid dimensions is before age of 30 years. Fusion between hyoid body and greater horns was not seen in patients younger than 10 years. Otherwise, the hyoid features failed to predict age or gender in our sample. Furthermore, 3D-CT scan is an excellent tool to assess the anatomy of head and neck region.
Objective: To study the pattern and changes of lumbar intervertebral foraminal heights in an asym... more Objective: To study the pattern and changes of lumbar intervertebral foraminal heights in an asymptomatic Jordanian sample relative to age, sex, level, and correlate values with midpoint vertebral and disc heights. Methods: One hundred and fifty-three patients (87 male and 66 female) were selected during the study period. The study was carried out at the Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan from June 1999 to June 2000. Parasagittal magnetic resonance images were used to measure intervertebral foraminal heights at all lumbar levels. Values were statistically analyzed and the significance of differences in the means of foraminal heights at different levels in every age group and among age groups was determined. Foraminal height indices and correlation coefficients with midpoint vertebral and disc heights were calculated. Results: The study revealed that the mean foraminal height measured is 20.9 mm 1.7 with a range of 17.1-24 mm. Foraminal heights increased significantly in a craniocaudal pattern reaching a maximum at lumber (L)2/3 in females and at L3/4 in males followed by continuous significant decrease reaching their minimum at L5/sacral (S) 1. In relation to age, foraminal heights decreased significantly in females reaching their minimum in the 7th decade. In males, foraminal heights at L3/4 until L5/S1 increased significantly reaching their maximum in the 5th decade followed by significant decrease reaching their minimum in the 7th decade. Foraminal height indices remained relatively constant. A fair degree of correlation of foraminal heights with intervertebral disc heights and vertebral body heights was evident. Conclusion: Foraminal heights show different level and age-dependent characteristic pattern of change between asymptomatic males and females. Changes of foraminal heights seem to directly reflect changes of vertebral body heights. These changes are considered normal age-dependent changes, and are discussed under consideration of adaptation to physical activity and changing hormonal levels.
For the past decades, it has been apparent that assisted reproductive technologies along with cli... more For the past decades, it has been apparent that assisted reproductive technologies along with clinical embryology have both propounded themselves triumphantly in the field of medicine. Although high-tech equipment and staff skills are crucial to the success of these breakthrough implementations, the pivot of these practices is updated, knowledgeable and competent technicians who excel in the field of human embryology. Crucially, the advancement of clinical embryology and its related fields depends on the meticulous training of clinical embryologists in practical skills as well as theoretical knowledge. Unfortunately, most aspects of reproductive medicine have no obligatory assembled curriculum. A lot more emphasis has been put on the clinical aspect of these sciences and training than its theoretical counterpart. Consequently, clinical embryologists continue to face difficulty in unifying the needed theoretical knowledge in these fields. Not only that, but they also struggle to shed a light on the advanced knowledge required to stand out as professionals. This study aimed to explore which theoretical information in the science of human embryology that embryologists need to know thoroughly about. The survey was conducted online (July 2021).
International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, Jan 8, 2018
Objectives: To study any possible correlation between blood lead levels and some oxidative stress... more Objectives: To study any possible correlation between blood lead levels and some oxidative stress parameters of selected groups of lead-exposed automobile occupational Jordanian workers. Material and Methods: Blood lead levels were determined for a total of 90 male automobile workers aged within the range of 25-45 years old along with the group of 20 agematched healthy males control. To get an idea about the antioxidant status of controls and lead-exposed workers, and to estimate the oxidative stress caused by exposure to lead, we measured the hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) concentration, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, lipid peroxidation as malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity of controls and workers. Results: The study showed that lead levels in the case of workers were approximately 4-5 times as high as in controls 14.5-21 μg×dl-1 vs. 4.3 μg×dl-1 , respectively. There was a significant decrease (16-25%) in the level of plasma reduced glutathione and 21-33% decrease in total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) in all worker groups, as compared to controls. The results showed that the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in plasma was higher (120-333%) in the case of workers than controls being the highest in automobile electronics and the lowest-in mechanics. Furthermore, there was 149-221% increase in hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) concentration, and 26-38% increase in SOD activity in the case of workers compared to the control group. Conclusions: There is a strong evidence for the associations between occupational lead exposure and various markers of oxidative stress in Jordanian automobile occupational workers. Thus, there is an urgent need to raise awareness and to initiate suitable protection guidelines for workers.
Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a naturally occurring lignan with potent antioxidant activity... more Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a naturally occurring lignan with potent antioxidant activity. Currently, it is in clinical trials as anticancer agent. As there is no earlier report on the effect of NDGA on spermatogenesis and fertility, this study was designed to investigate this aspect. Administration of NDGA to rats for 60 days produced degenerative changes in testis but had no effect on sperm DNA integrity test and androgen receptor expression. Ultrastructural studies revealed loss of integrity of cells in seminiferous tubules, vacuolation and presence of apoptotic bodies. Derangement of the outer dense fibres was noted in some sperm flagella. Acrosome formation appears to be normal. About 13.7% of epididymal spermatozoa had deformations like short tail or rounded head. This may explain the lower fertility index in NDGA-treated group. No external deformations in newborns were noted. In conclusion, NDGA may have adverse effects on spermatogenesis.
Introduction: The accessory navicular (AN) is an accessory ossicle anatomically located on the me... more Introduction: The accessory navicular (AN) is an accessory ossicle anatomically located on the medial side of the foot, proximal to the navicular and continuous with the tibialis posterior tendon. It is occasionally a source of pain and local tenderness. Knowledge of the AN and its morphological variations can help identify the source of a patient's symptoms and prevent misinterpreting them as fractures. Materials and methods: Foot radiographs from 1240 patients who presented in two centers with chronic foot pain, or persistent pain developed after trauma, were retrospectively reviewed to determine the incidence and variations of the AN in relation to gender. Results: The AN was found in 20.9% (259/1240). Among 259 feet with AN, Type 1 was identified in 25.4% (66/259), Type 2 in 42.4% (110/259) (20.0% (52/259) Type 2A and 22.4% (58/259) Type 2B), and Type 3 in 32.0% (83/259). After 13 patients with incomplete medical records had been excluded, the remaining records showed that foot pain was associated with an AN in 10.6% of patients (26/246). In 1.2% of cases, two additional ossicles were found proximal to the navicular, possibly the result of multiple ossification centers that did not unite at the time of development. Conclusions: Patient symptomatology was related to the presence of an AN in 2% of patients with chronic foot pain. The AN could vary morphologically. Our data can enhance our diagnostic skills in detecting these ossicles.
W ound closure by skin graft is the simplest and most versatile method of wound management when d... more W ound closure by skin graft is the simplest and most versatile method of wound management when direct skin approximation is not possible. Revascularization of skin graft "take" is a complex process that involves a set of cellular, physiological, and molecular events working to restore the blood supply and functional integrity to the donor skin. Development of granulation tissue in the wound is an important indicator for skin graft treatment. Granulation tissue has a high level of vascularity From the Department of Clinical Pharmacy (Albsoul-Younes),
This paper describes the treatment of patients with thermal injuy in ]ordan University Hospital. ... more This paper describes the treatment of patients with thermal injuy in ]ordan University Hospital. Between 1976 and 1980 inclusive 338 patients were treated in general surgical wards. More recently a new specialilpd burn unit has been built and between April 1985 andJuly 1986, 100 patients have been treated in this new unit. Compared with the earlier study there has been an increase in the number of patients admitted with more severe bums. Among these 100 patients scalds andfire-bum injury have a nearly equal incidence. Small children are especially vulnerable. The mortality rate, the incidence of disability and the duration of stay in hospital has decreased compared wifh the previous study.
ABSTRACTObjectiveTwin pregnancies are associated with increased perinatal mortality and morbidity... more ABSTRACTObjectiveTwin pregnancies are associated with increased perinatal mortality and morbidity, but long‐term neurodevelopmental outcomes remain under‐investigated. The primary objective was to investigate the incidence of adverse neurodevelopment after one year of age in complicated monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancies compared with uncomplicated twin pregnancies.MethodsThis was a prospective cohort study conducted at St George's University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London. Women with twin pregnancies culminating in at least one child surviving to at least 12 months up to 60 months (corrected for prematurity) at the time of assessment, were invited to complete the relevant Ages and Stages Questionnaires® test version 3 (ASQ‐3). The two study groups were (1) complicated MCDA twin pregnancies and uncomplicated twin pregnancies (dichorionic and MCDA). Complicated twin pregnancies included those with twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), Twin Anaemia Polycyt...
The study investigated the impact of individual, cultural & contextual factors on academic integr... more The study investigated the impact of individual, cultural & contextual factors on academic integrity, conceptualized in terms of passive and active cheating, among medical students in Jordan. Using data collected from 353 students, it was determined through odds ratio analysis that cultural collectivism and academic integrity culture had no impact on either active or passive cheating. However, traits of both high conscientiousness and high agreeableness substantially reduced one's risk of active cheating. Neither the cultural and personality variables, nor gender were found to increase one's risk of passive cheating. These findings contradict current beliefs that collectivism impacts cheating among Middle East students. Various managerial and theoretical implications are discussed.
Objective: The exact mechanism of interference between cadmium and bone mineralization remains fo... more Objective: The exact mechanism of interference between cadmium and bone mineralization remains for further studies. Therefore this study aimed at assessing the associations between urinary cadmium levels as an indicator of body burden and osteoblastic and osteoclastic biological bone markers as an indicators of bone effects in middle aged welders. Methods: The studied population consist of a group of welders (n=30) selected from two welder shops in EL Manial and those who were engaged in welding work in Kasr Al-Aini hospital and matched control (n=20). All participants were subjected to occupational and medical history, creatinine-corrected urinary cadmium (U-Cd) as an indicator of the whole body burden and biochemical markers of bone turnover. Bone formation and bone resorption were assessed by measuring the N-terminal propeptide of type 1 procollagen (P 1 NP) and C-telopeptide crosslaps of type I collagen (CTX-1) respectively. Results: U-Cd and CTX-1 were significantly higher in welders when compared to the controls. Further comparison of the exposed group(regarding U-Cd level ≤ 5 µg/ g cr and > 5 µg/ g cr) and control revealed statistically significant differences as regard U-Cd and CTX-1 in addition to statistically significant lower mean value of P 1 NP only in the group of U-Cd > 5 µg/ g cr than that in control group. On correlating U-Cd on one hand with duration of work, smoking index, CTX-1and P 1 NP on the other, non significant correlation was found. In conclusion our study may confirm other studies which claim that Cd increase osteoclastic bone markers and hence has a direct bone effect.
Purpose: To investigate the contractile responses of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to spas... more Purpose: To investigate the contractile responses of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to spasmogens after incubation with harmaline, harmine, and harmalol, which are alkaloids obtained from Peganum harmala L., a member of the Zygophyllaceae family. Methods: Contractile responses of VSMCs to norepinephrine (NE; 1 µmol/L) and potassium chloride (KCl; 60 mmol/L) were recorded in rat aortic ring preparations pre-incubated with 0.5, 1, 5 and 10 µmol/L of each alkaloid for 15 min. Responses were expressed as mean values of contractions in incubated preparations, relative to the recorded tension prior to treatment with alkaloids. Results: Pre- incubation with harmaline at concentration of 10 µmol/L significantly reduced contractile responses to NE by 69.0 ± 3.0 % (p < 0.00002), and decreased KCl-induced contraction by 34.0 ± 9.0 % (p < 0.05). Harmalol was the most effective in inhibiting contractions to KCl (48.0 ± 9.0 %, p < 0.01). However, harmalol produced relatively m...
Objective: To study changes in midpoint lumbar disc heights in an asymptomatic Jordanian sample r... more Objective: To study changes in midpoint lumbar disc heights in an asymptomatic Jordanian sample relative to age, sex, lumbar level and midvertebral heights. Methods: A total of 153 asymptomatic patients (87 males, age range 20-65 years; mean 43+/-12.1 and 66 females, age range 22-68 years; mean 47+/-13.7) were selected during the study period. All underwent midsagittal magnetic resonance imaging to measure the midpoint disc height and midvertebral height of all lumbar spines. Values were statistically analyzed to obtain the significance of differences in the means of midpoint disc heights at different levels in every age group and among other age groups. The relative height indices for every lumbar level in each age group for both males and females were determined. Results: The results showed that a highly significant sex-independent cephalocaudal increase sequence of midpoint disc heights is evident, where maximum values are reached at lumbar 3/4 level in the younger age groups and at lumbar 5/sacral 1 level in older ones. In relation to age, midpoint disc heights displayed a non-linear, alternating increase/decrease pattern, which was of higher magnitude and statistically significant in males, but less evident and statistically insignificant in females. Maximum values were reached during the 6th decade in males while during the 5th decade in females. The relative height indices were similar in both sexes and remained fairly constant between age groups at all levels. Conclusion: The craniocaudal and age-dependent patterns could be termed physiological and interpreted as adaptation of the lumbar spine to changing functional demands. The utility of the relative height index is discussed.
Radial forearm skin flaps transplanted into the oral cavity in patients undergoing treatment for ... more Radial forearm skin flaps transplanted into the oral cavity in patients undergoing treatment for intra-oral tumors frequently acquire a gross appearance resembling that of buccal mucosa. This article reports studies of biopsies of the flaps in 53 patients, of which 21 showed changes at some stage in the follow-up period. The project aims to determine whether 1) the change in the epithelium to a mucosal form is genuine or reactive, 2) a creeping replacement of epidermis results from the surrounding buccal epithelium, 3) alterations in the epidermis could be associated with changes in the dermis, 4) the change is caused by radiotherapy. Examination of the biopsies by resin histology and transmission electron microscopy shows that the changes may be reversible: it suggests that they are reactive in nature, and related to the degree of dermal inflammation, rather than to the effect of radiotherapy. The dermis persists as such and is not replaced by buccal lamina propria.
Variability of the third segment (V3) of vertebral artery (VA) in correlation with individual sha... more Variability of the third segment (V3) of vertebral artery (VA) in correlation with individual shape of skull was studied by analyses of 32 MRI and angiograms of 64 arteries. According to value of cranial index, the group under research was divided into three subgroups: dolichocephalic (15.6%), mesocephalic (43.8%), and brachycephalic (40.6%). The V3 was studied according to its conventional division into three sections: vertical (vV3), horizontal (hV3), and oblique (oV3), with proximal and distal loop formations along its length. The mean diameter and length of vV3 and hV3 had minimal value in the patients with brachycephalic shape of skull. The angle between bends of proximal loop of V3 progressively increased from 67.5 } 0.75 degree in the dolichocephalic group to 77.1}0.44 degree in the brachycephalic group, while the angle between bends of distal loop was decreasing from the dolichocephalic group (79.6 } 4.7 degree) to the mesocephalic group (74.85}2.4), reaching the minimal value in the brachycephalic group (79.6 } 4.7 degree). In the dolichocephalic group downward deviation of hV3 was more in evidence than in all the rest groups, with inclination to minimal or zero-deviation in brachycephalic group. The results have showed that the anatomical variability of V3 significant correlates with the shape of skull. The findings open up possibilities for primary diagnosis and prognosis of acute and chronic disorders in posterior circulation enabling to choose the individual surgical approach to the craniocervical junction and base of skull.
It is well known that cigarette smoking adversely afects human health and induces oxidative stres... more It is well known that cigarette smoking adversely afects human health and induces oxidative stress in most vital organs. Tis study aims to assess the biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural values of honey and garlic extracts in ameliorating the efects of short-term exposure to cigarette smoke in mice. Forty-eight mice were randomly divided into six equal groups: group I was exposed to fresh air only, group II was exposed to cigarette smoke, group III was given 0.2 ml of honey extract, group IV was exposed to cigarette smoke and was given 0.2 ml of honey extract, group V was given 0.2 ml of garlic extract, and group VI was exposed to cigarette smoke and was given 0.2 ml of aqueous garlic extract. Tese exposures were repeated daily for 21 consecutive days among the treated groups. By the end of the third week, the animals were euthanized by physical cervical dislocation. Blood was taken for biochemical study, and the selected organs of the liver, kidney, and jejunum were processed for histological and ultrastructural studies. Te biochemical results showed that short-term exposure of experimental mice to cigarette smoking did not alter the liver function tests except for decreasing the albumin level. Moreover, cigarette smoking elevates the concentration of carbonyl protein content and cystatin C. Histologically, the use of honey and garlic showed good protection to the liver, kidney, and jejunum, which was proved by transmission electron microscopy, in addition to lowering the oxidative stress biomarkers. In conclusion, using honey and/or garlic helps protect the liver, kidney, and jejunum against the hazardous efects of cigarette smoke.
It is well known that cigarette smoking adversely afects human health and induces oxidative stres... more It is well known that cigarette smoking adversely afects human health and induces oxidative stress in most vital organs. Tis study aims to assess the biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural values of honey and garlic extracts in ameliorating the efects of short-term exposure to cigarette smoke in mice. Forty-eight mice were randomly divided into six equal groups: group I was exposed to fresh air only, group II was exposed to cigarette smoke, group III was given 0.2 ml of honey extract, group IV was exposed to cigarette smoke and was given 0.2 ml of honey extract, group V was given 0.2 ml of garlic extract, and group VI was exposed to cigarette smoke and was given 0.2 ml of aqueous garlic extract. Tese exposures were repeated daily for 21 consecutive days among the treated groups. By the end of the third week, the animals were euthanized by physical cervical dislocation. Blood was taken for biochemical study, and the selected organs of the liver, kidney, and jejunum were processed for histological and ultrastructural studies. Te biochemical results showed that short-term exposure of experimental mice to cigarette smoking did not alter the liver function tests except for decreasing the albumin level. Moreover, cigarette smoking elevates the concentration of carbonyl protein content and cystatin C. Histologically, the use of honey and garlic showed good protection to the liver, kidney, and jejunum, which was proved by transmission electron microscopy, in addition to lowering the oxidative stress biomarkers. In conclusion, using honey and/or garlic helps protect the liver, kidney, and jejunum against the hazardous efects of cigarette smoke.
Hyoid bone measurements have been proposed to vary between different genders and age groups. The ... more Hyoid bone measurements have been proposed to vary between different genders and age groups. The aim of the study is to study hyoid morphometrics among Jordanian patients. 3D-CT scans of 637 patients were analyzed. Ten parameters of hyoid bone were measures, including the anteroposterior length, length of greater horns (right and left), height of greater horns (right and left), width of hyoid body, height of hyoid body, the distance between the midpoints of the posterior ends of the greater horns of the hyoid bone, the angle between right and left greater horns, and the distance of the hyoid bone to the vertebral column. Also, vertebral level, fusion rank, morphology of hyoid body lingula, and shape of hyoid bone were documented. All hyoid dimensions were longer in males, but greater horns angle was wider in females. In patients younger than 30 years, the parameters are the smallest with the widest angle. The distance from hyoid to vertebral column is higher in males (30-49) years of age. No fusion between hyoid body and greater horns was observed in patients younger than 10 years, but fusion (unilateral or bilateral) was found in only 73.2 % of patients ≥ 70 years. The hyoid was mostly at vertebra C3 level and "U" shaped. The lingula shape was mostly "Scar" in males (especially ≥ 50 years) and "Nothing" in females (especially < 50 years). The maximum growth of hyoid dimensions is before age of 30 years. Fusion between hyoid body and greater horns was not seen in patients younger than 10 years. Otherwise, the hyoid features failed to predict age or gender in our sample. Furthermore, 3D-CT scan is an excellent tool to assess the anatomy of head and neck region.
Objective: To study the pattern and changes of lumbar intervertebral foraminal heights in an asym... more Objective: To study the pattern and changes of lumbar intervertebral foraminal heights in an asymptomatic Jordanian sample relative to age, sex, level, and correlate values with midpoint vertebral and disc heights. Methods: One hundred and fifty-three patients (87 male and 66 female) were selected during the study period. The study was carried out at the Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan from June 1999 to June 2000. Parasagittal magnetic resonance images were used to measure intervertebral foraminal heights at all lumbar levels. Values were statistically analyzed and the significance of differences in the means of foraminal heights at different levels in every age group and among age groups was determined. Foraminal height indices and correlation coefficients with midpoint vertebral and disc heights were calculated. Results: The study revealed that the mean foraminal height measured is 20.9 mm 1.7 with a range of 17.1-24 mm. Foraminal heights increased significantly in a craniocaudal pattern reaching a maximum at lumber (L)2/3 in females and at L3/4 in males followed by continuous significant decrease reaching their minimum at L5/sacral (S) 1. In relation to age, foraminal heights decreased significantly in females reaching their minimum in the 7th decade. In males, foraminal heights at L3/4 until L5/S1 increased significantly reaching their maximum in the 5th decade followed by significant decrease reaching their minimum in the 7th decade. Foraminal height indices remained relatively constant. A fair degree of correlation of foraminal heights with intervertebral disc heights and vertebral body heights was evident. Conclusion: Foraminal heights show different level and age-dependent characteristic pattern of change between asymptomatic males and females. Changes of foraminal heights seem to directly reflect changes of vertebral body heights. These changes are considered normal age-dependent changes, and are discussed under consideration of adaptation to physical activity and changing hormonal levels.
For the past decades, it has been apparent that assisted reproductive technologies along with cli... more For the past decades, it has been apparent that assisted reproductive technologies along with clinical embryology have both propounded themselves triumphantly in the field of medicine. Although high-tech equipment and staff skills are crucial to the success of these breakthrough implementations, the pivot of these practices is updated, knowledgeable and competent technicians who excel in the field of human embryology. Crucially, the advancement of clinical embryology and its related fields depends on the meticulous training of clinical embryologists in practical skills as well as theoretical knowledge. Unfortunately, most aspects of reproductive medicine have no obligatory assembled curriculum. A lot more emphasis has been put on the clinical aspect of these sciences and training than its theoretical counterpart. Consequently, clinical embryologists continue to face difficulty in unifying the needed theoretical knowledge in these fields. Not only that, but they also struggle to shed a light on the advanced knowledge required to stand out as professionals. This study aimed to explore which theoretical information in the science of human embryology that embryologists need to know thoroughly about. The survey was conducted online (July 2021).
International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, Jan 8, 2018
Objectives: To study any possible correlation between blood lead levels and some oxidative stress... more Objectives: To study any possible correlation between blood lead levels and some oxidative stress parameters of selected groups of lead-exposed automobile occupational Jordanian workers. Material and Methods: Blood lead levels were determined for a total of 90 male automobile workers aged within the range of 25-45 years old along with the group of 20 agematched healthy males control. To get an idea about the antioxidant status of controls and lead-exposed workers, and to estimate the oxidative stress caused by exposure to lead, we measured the hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) concentration, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, lipid peroxidation as malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity of controls and workers. Results: The study showed that lead levels in the case of workers were approximately 4-5 times as high as in controls 14.5-21 μg×dl-1 vs. 4.3 μg×dl-1 , respectively. There was a significant decrease (16-25%) in the level of plasma reduced glutathione and 21-33% decrease in total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) in all worker groups, as compared to controls. The results showed that the concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) in plasma was higher (120-333%) in the case of workers than controls being the highest in automobile electronics and the lowest-in mechanics. Furthermore, there was 149-221% increase in hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) concentration, and 26-38% increase in SOD activity in the case of workers compared to the control group. Conclusions: There is a strong evidence for the associations between occupational lead exposure and various markers of oxidative stress in Jordanian automobile occupational workers. Thus, there is an urgent need to raise awareness and to initiate suitable protection guidelines for workers.
Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a naturally occurring lignan with potent antioxidant activity... more Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a naturally occurring lignan with potent antioxidant activity. Currently, it is in clinical trials as anticancer agent. As there is no earlier report on the effect of NDGA on spermatogenesis and fertility, this study was designed to investigate this aspect. Administration of NDGA to rats for 60 days produced degenerative changes in testis but had no effect on sperm DNA integrity test and androgen receptor expression. Ultrastructural studies revealed loss of integrity of cells in seminiferous tubules, vacuolation and presence of apoptotic bodies. Derangement of the outer dense fibres was noted in some sperm flagella. Acrosome formation appears to be normal. About 13.7% of epididymal spermatozoa had deformations like short tail or rounded head. This may explain the lower fertility index in NDGA-treated group. No external deformations in newborns were noted. In conclusion, NDGA may have adverse effects on spermatogenesis.
Introduction: The accessory navicular (AN) is an accessory ossicle anatomically located on the me... more Introduction: The accessory navicular (AN) is an accessory ossicle anatomically located on the medial side of the foot, proximal to the navicular and continuous with the tibialis posterior tendon. It is occasionally a source of pain and local tenderness. Knowledge of the AN and its morphological variations can help identify the source of a patient's symptoms and prevent misinterpreting them as fractures. Materials and methods: Foot radiographs from 1240 patients who presented in two centers with chronic foot pain, or persistent pain developed after trauma, were retrospectively reviewed to determine the incidence and variations of the AN in relation to gender. Results: The AN was found in 20.9% (259/1240). Among 259 feet with AN, Type 1 was identified in 25.4% (66/259), Type 2 in 42.4% (110/259) (20.0% (52/259) Type 2A and 22.4% (58/259) Type 2B), and Type 3 in 32.0% (83/259). After 13 patients with incomplete medical records had been excluded, the remaining records showed that foot pain was associated with an AN in 10.6% of patients (26/246). In 1.2% of cases, two additional ossicles were found proximal to the navicular, possibly the result of multiple ossification centers that did not unite at the time of development. Conclusions: Patient symptomatology was related to the presence of an AN in 2% of patients with chronic foot pain. The AN could vary morphologically. Our data can enhance our diagnostic skills in detecting these ossicles.
W ound closure by skin graft is the simplest and most versatile method of wound management when d... more W ound closure by skin graft is the simplest and most versatile method of wound management when direct skin approximation is not possible. Revascularization of skin graft "take" is a complex process that involves a set of cellular, physiological, and molecular events working to restore the blood supply and functional integrity to the donor skin. Development of granulation tissue in the wound is an important indicator for skin graft treatment. Granulation tissue has a high level of vascularity From the Department of Clinical Pharmacy (Albsoul-Younes),
This paper describes the treatment of patients with thermal injuy in ]ordan University Hospital. ... more This paper describes the treatment of patients with thermal injuy in ]ordan University Hospital. Between 1976 and 1980 inclusive 338 patients were treated in general surgical wards. More recently a new specialilpd burn unit has been built and between April 1985 andJuly 1986, 100 patients have been treated in this new unit. Compared with the earlier study there has been an increase in the number of patients admitted with more severe bums. Among these 100 patients scalds andfire-bum injury have a nearly equal incidence. Small children are especially vulnerable. The mortality rate, the incidence of disability and the duration of stay in hospital has decreased compared wifh the previous study.
ABSTRACTObjectiveTwin pregnancies are associated with increased perinatal mortality and morbidity... more ABSTRACTObjectiveTwin pregnancies are associated with increased perinatal mortality and morbidity, but long‐term neurodevelopmental outcomes remain under‐investigated. The primary objective was to investigate the incidence of adverse neurodevelopment after one year of age in complicated monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancies compared with uncomplicated twin pregnancies.MethodsThis was a prospective cohort study conducted at St George's University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London. Women with twin pregnancies culminating in at least one child surviving to at least 12 months up to 60 months (corrected for prematurity) at the time of assessment, were invited to complete the relevant Ages and Stages Questionnaires® test version 3 (ASQ‐3). The two study groups were (1) complicated MCDA twin pregnancies and uncomplicated twin pregnancies (dichorionic and MCDA). Complicated twin pregnancies included those with twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), Twin Anaemia Polycyt...
The study investigated the impact of individual, cultural & contextual factors on academic integr... more The study investigated the impact of individual, cultural & contextual factors on academic integrity, conceptualized in terms of passive and active cheating, among medical students in Jordan. Using data collected from 353 students, it was determined through odds ratio analysis that cultural collectivism and academic integrity culture had no impact on either active or passive cheating. However, traits of both high conscientiousness and high agreeableness substantially reduced one's risk of active cheating. Neither the cultural and personality variables, nor gender were found to increase one's risk of passive cheating. These findings contradict current beliefs that collectivism impacts cheating among Middle East students. Various managerial and theoretical implications are discussed.
Objective: The exact mechanism of interference between cadmium and bone mineralization remains fo... more Objective: The exact mechanism of interference between cadmium and bone mineralization remains for further studies. Therefore this study aimed at assessing the associations between urinary cadmium levels as an indicator of body burden and osteoblastic and osteoclastic biological bone markers as an indicators of bone effects in middle aged welders. Methods: The studied population consist of a group of welders (n=30) selected from two welder shops in EL Manial and those who were engaged in welding work in Kasr Al-Aini hospital and matched control (n=20). All participants were subjected to occupational and medical history, creatinine-corrected urinary cadmium (U-Cd) as an indicator of the whole body burden and biochemical markers of bone turnover. Bone formation and bone resorption were assessed by measuring the N-terminal propeptide of type 1 procollagen (P 1 NP) and C-telopeptide crosslaps of type I collagen (CTX-1) respectively. Results: U-Cd and CTX-1 were significantly higher in welders when compared to the controls. Further comparison of the exposed group(regarding U-Cd level ≤ 5 µg/ g cr and > 5 µg/ g cr) and control revealed statistically significant differences as regard U-Cd and CTX-1 in addition to statistically significant lower mean value of P 1 NP only in the group of U-Cd > 5 µg/ g cr than that in control group. On correlating U-Cd on one hand with duration of work, smoking index, CTX-1and P 1 NP on the other, non significant correlation was found. In conclusion our study may confirm other studies which claim that Cd increase osteoclastic bone markers and hence has a direct bone effect.
Purpose: To investigate the contractile responses of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to spas... more Purpose: To investigate the contractile responses of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to spasmogens after incubation with harmaline, harmine, and harmalol, which are alkaloids obtained from Peganum harmala L., a member of the Zygophyllaceae family. Methods: Contractile responses of VSMCs to norepinephrine (NE; 1 µmol/L) and potassium chloride (KCl; 60 mmol/L) were recorded in rat aortic ring preparations pre-incubated with 0.5, 1, 5 and 10 µmol/L of each alkaloid for 15 min. Responses were expressed as mean values of contractions in incubated preparations, relative to the recorded tension prior to treatment with alkaloids. Results: Pre- incubation with harmaline at concentration of 10 µmol/L significantly reduced contractile responses to NE by 69.0 ± 3.0 % (p < 0.00002), and decreased KCl-induced contraction by 34.0 ± 9.0 % (p < 0.05). Harmalol was the most effective in inhibiting contractions to KCl (48.0 ± 9.0 %, p < 0.01). However, harmalol produced relatively m...
Objective: To study changes in midpoint lumbar disc heights in an asymptomatic Jordanian sample r... more Objective: To study changes in midpoint lumbar disc heights in an asymptomatic Jordanian sample relative to age, sex, lumbar level and midvertebral heights. Methods: A total of 153 asymptomatic patients (87 males, age range 20-65 years; mean 43+/-12.1 and 66 females, age range 22-68 years; mean 47+/-13.7) were selected during the study period. All underwent midsagittal magnetic resonance imaging to measure the midpoint disc height and midvertebral height of all lumbar spines. Values were statistically analyzed to obtain the significance of differences in the means of midpoint disc heights at different levels in every age group and among other age groups. The relative height indices for every lumbar level in each age group for both males and females were determined. Results: The results showed that a highly significant sex-independent cephalocaudal increase sequence of midpoint disc heights is evident, where maximum values are reached at lumbar 3/4 level in the younger age groups and at lumbar 5/sacral 1 level in older ones. In relation to age, midpoint disc heights displayed a non-linear, alternating increase/decrease pattern, which was of higher magnitude and statistically significant in males, but less evident and statistically insignificant in females. Maximum values were reached during the 6th decade in males while during the 5th decade in females. The relative height indices were similar in both sexes and remained fairly constant between age groups at all levels. Conclusion: The craniocaudal and age-dependent patterns could be termed physiological and interpreted as adaptation of the lumbar spine to changing functional demands. The utility of the relative height index is discussed.
Radial forearm skin flaps transplanted into the oral cavity in patients undergoing treatment for ... more Radial forearm skin flaps transplanted into the oral cavity in patients undergoing treatment for intra-oral tumors frequently acquire a gross appearance resembling that of buccal mucosa. This article reports studies of biopsies of the flaps in 53 patients, of which 21 showed changes at some stage in the follow-up period. The project aims to determine whether 1) the change in the epithelium to a mucosal form is genuine or reactive, 2) a creeping replacement of epidermis results from the surrounding buccal epithelium, 3) alterations in the epidermis could be associated with changes in the dermis, 4) the change is caused by radiotherapy. Examination of the biopsies by resin histology and transmission electron microscopy shows that the changes may be reversible: it suggests that they are reactive in nature, and related to the degree of dermal inflammation, rather than to the effect of radiotherapy. The dermis persists as such and is not replaced by buccal lamina propria.
Variability of the third segment (V3) of vertebral artery (VA) in correlation with individual sha... more Variability of the third segment (V3) of vertebral artery (VA) in correlation with individual shape of skull was studied by analyses of 32 MRI and angiograms of 64 arteries. According to value of cranial index, the group under research was divided into three subgroups: dolichocephalic (15.6%), mesocephalic (43.8%), and brachycephalic (40.6%). The V3 was studied according to its conventional division into three sections: vertical (vV3), horizontal (hV3), and oblique (oV3), with proximal and distal loop formations along its length. The mean diameter and length of vV3 and hV3 had minimal value in the patients with brachycephalic shape of skull. The angle between bends of proximal loop of V3 progressively increased from 67.5 } 0.75 degree in the dolichocephalic group to 77.1}0.44 degree in the brachycephalic group, while the angle between bends of distal loop was decreasing from the dolichocephalic group (79.6 } 4.7 degree) to the mesocephalic group (74.85}2.4), reaching the minimal value in the brachycephalic group (79.6 } 4.7 degree). In the dolichocephalic group downward deviation of hV3 was more in evidence than in all the rest groups, with inclination to minimal or zero-deviation in brachycephalic group. The results have showed that the anatomical variability of V3 significant correlates with the shape of skull. The findings open up possibilities for primary diagnosis and prognosis of acute and chronic disorders in posterior circulation enabling to choose the individual surgical approach to the craniocervical junction and base of skull.
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Papers by Darwish Badran