bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of microRNAs miR-221/222 in eNOS signalling and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Upadhyay Rohit
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim: The prevalence of type-2 diabetes (T2D) has doubled in the last three decades and is still rising at an alarming rate, thereby posing a major challenge to global health. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short RNAs, which play an important role in regulating physiological processes in diabetes. These small RNAs post-transcriptionally suppress mRNA target expression and, therefore, modulation of specific miRNAs may prove to be a promising strategy to treat diabetes. However, the potential roles of the different microRNAs in the eitiology of diabetes and diabetes-related complications are not yet completely understood. In the present study, we aimed to explore the role of miR221/ 222 in diabetes. Materials and Methods: Mouse microvascular endothelial cells (MMECs) were cultured for 48 hours under conditions designed to mimic the mileu of type 2 diabetic mice: normal glucose (NG=11mM) and high glucose (HG=40mM). The levels of miRNA221/222 expression were then analysed by real-time PCR. MMECs were transfected with miR221/222 inhibitors and mir221/222 mimics and then cells were exposed to normal/ high glucose in the presence or absence of metformin. Expression of miRNA 221/222 were again analysed and compared. The effects of miR 221/222 expression on eNOS, phospho-eNOS and eNOS monomer/dimer protein levels were determined through western blotting. Results: We found that exposure to high levels of glucose, which mimics hyperglycaemia conditions, induced expression of miR-221 and miR-222. Treatment of metformin partially restored this HG-induced high expression of miRNA. Moreover, metformin showed an additive effect with miR221/222 inhibitors to inhibit miR 221/222 expression in hyperglycaemic condition. Furthermore, we observed that protein levels of total eNOS and phospho-eNOS decreases in HG in comparison with NG. The eNOS/P-eNOS protein levels were restored upon inhibition of miR221/222, thus indicating correlation of these micro-RNAs with eNOS signalling. Results were inversely validated by using miR mimics (overexpression). Conclusion: These findings suggest that miR221/222 may offer a new therapeutic strategy for treatment of endothelial dysfunction in diabetic patients or may work as a therapeutic modulator. The project is supported by UREP 13-116-3-024
Role of calreticulin in store-operated Ca entry (SOCE)
Authors: Ibrahim Awab
Published: November 2013

Title: Role of Calreticulin in Store-operated Ca entry (SOCE) Authors: Satanay Hubrack, Awab Ibrahim, Hamid Massaeli, Nasrin Mesaeli, Khaled Machaca. Abstract: Calreticulin is a pervasive protein that is mainly found within the ER. It has been linked to many cellular functions including Ca2+ storage and signaling along with protein folding. Here we use mouse embryonic fibroblasts, both wild type (WT) and knockouts (KO) not expressing calreticulin, to investigate the effect of calreticulin on the activation of store-operated Ca entry (SOCE). SOCE is a Ca influx pathway at the cell membrane that is regulated by the Ca content in intracellular stores primarily the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). SOCE is activated through the combined action of two proteins STIM-1, an ER Ca sensor and Orai1 a plasma membrane Ca selective channel. We hypothesized that calerticulin is essential for ORAI-1 folding and chaperoning; therefore, its function is necessary for the activation of SOC. Confocal microscopy of both WT and KO cells showed the presence of Orai1 at the plasma membrane GFP-Orai-1 transfected cells. Following Store depletion using thapsigargin, endogenous puncta were seen in both WT and KO cells. Moreover, calcium imaging using ratiometric measures showed the presence of SOC after store depletion in both cell lines. From our results, we conclude that Calreticulin is not necessary for the activity or function of SOC.
Modulation of α-synuclein aggregation by the 70 kDa heat shock protein and its various domains
Authors: Chaari Ali
Published: November 2013

Molecular chaperones assist in maintenance of functional proteome in vivo and represent the first line of defense against protein misfolding and aggregation in the case of protein misfolding disease. The influence of the stress-induced protein Hsp70 on alpha synuclein aggregation, the primary component of Lewy body's involvement in Parkinson's disease, has been notably investigated. We present in this paper, the in vitro characterization of the effect of the constitutively expressed chaperone Hsc70 and its various domains on alpha synuclein aggregation using ThT assay, AFM, DLS and Cell viability assays. The results show that Hsc70 and C-terminal domains studied are able to inhibit the aggregation of alpha synuclein albeit at different rates and this indicating that efficiency the N-terminal ATPase domain is indispensable. We demonstrate the importance of the Hsc70 C-terminal lid for the full action of Hsc70. This lid might be necessary to bind to α-syn monomer and/or small aggregates and then retard the fibril elongation. We show also a reduced cellular toxicity of alpha synuclein in presence of Hsc70 and its domains with different rates.
Home-Based Rehabilitation Systems
Authors: Cabibihan John-John
Published: November 2013

With the goal to enhance easily accessible telehealth infrastructure, we demonstrate an in-house and cost effective solution to enable rehabilitation that can provide a simple alternative for conventional therapeutic methods. We also test the effectiveness of this system in addressing shoulder rehabilitation by measuring the subjects' reflex reactions through repetitive trials. A commercially-available low-cost camera sensor was used to play a ball tracking game to test the system. The objective of the game was to track a ball involving only shoulder movements, across the screen for about 30 seconds with increasing difficulty per level. Single trial lasted for few minutes per day and for four days per subject. Reflex times of each subject were recorded, monitored and the data were analyzed. A group of 23 healthy subjects volunteered for the trials. A case study with a single subject with shoulder injury was also carried out. Statistical analysis showed significant improvement in the movement of the injured shoulder. The game along with the sensor proves to be a new rehabilitation method that can simulate a vibrant therapeutic environment. Results show that the game is effective in bringing about an improvement in the subjects shoulder flexion. The capabilities of the game and the device that includes customization based on the need, opens a new platform in the field of rehabilitation.
Optimizing identification of common respiratory pathogens from cystic fibrosis patients using MALDI-TOF MS method
Authors: Abdulwahab Atqah
Published: November 2013

Abstract Background: Early identification of organisms from respiratory specimens of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients is important to guide therapeutic decisions. Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has emerged as a rapid and powerful tool for routine identification of bacteria. The objective was to identify common bacterial isolates including non-fermenting Gram-negative bacteria (NFGNB) in a cohort of CF patients by MALDI-TOF MS. Methods: Fifty CF patients were enrolled between July and December, 2012, where sputum samples or deep-oropharyngeal swabs were prospectively collected at each CF clinic visit or hospital admission from both pediatric and adult CF patients. Bacterial isolates were identified using MALDI-TOF MS in parallel with conventional phenotypic methods. Discrepant strains were confirmed by 16S rDNA gene sequencing. Results: A total of 124 CF isolates from 83 samples representing 15 bacterial species were identified. The MALDI-TOF MS correctly identified bacterial isolates 123/124 (99.2%) [Log (score) <2 and =1.7] to the genus level and 119/124 (96%) [Log (score) =2] to the species level. The MALDI-TOF MS results were 100% consistent to the species level with conventional phenotypic identification for isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Haemophilus influenzae, streptococcus pyogenes, Achromobacter xylosoxidans, Stentrophomonas maltophilia, Chryseobacterium gleum, and Enterobacter cloacae. Discrepant isolates 6/124 (4.8%) were all Gram negative isolates. Conclusions: MALDI-TOF MS provided reliable, rapid, and an efficient method for the identification of bacteria in routine clinical laboratory in the setting of CF which exhibited large species diversity. This instant identification of microorganisms will lead to early antimicrobial therapy in CF patients.
Ethnobotanical Study Of Medicinal Plants Belonging To The Qu'Ranic Botanical Garden Qatar And Their Therapeutic Benefits
Authors: Bouftira Ibtissem
Published: November 2013

Plants and fruits are an essential component of the universe. Human beings have used those as medicine from the very beginning of time. There are many plants with medicinal applications that have been mentioned in the holy book of Muslims, the Quran. The objective of this research is the identification of medicinal plants enumerated in the Quran and exploring their traditional uses and phytotherapeutical benefits. At least 52 plant species have been identified in Qu'ranic Botanical Garden Qatar. In the present work, we have chosen three species native to the Qatar flora and also cited in the Holy Quran and Hadith. A search for any documentation or publication of their traditional uses and therapeutically benefits was carried out using the scientific literature and internet websites for well referenced publications. Results were systematically arranged by alphabetic order of botanical names followed by English name, Arabic name, family, parts used and medicinal uses.
Early effect of progesterone on GPRx endocytosis in xenopus oocytes
Authors: Nader Nancy
Published: November 2013

Xenopus oocytes are naturally arrested at prophase of meiosis I for sustained periods of time before resuming meiosis in a process called maturation that prepares the egg for fertilization. GPRx is a G-Protein coupled Receptor (GPCR) expressed in Xenopus oocytes that sustains its meiotic arrest by increasing intracellular levels of cAMP via GaSß? proteins. Progesterone (PG) is the widely used hormone to release Xenopus oocytes meiotic arrest by reducing cAMP levels via its non-classical membrane PG receptor. However and to date the exact mechanism by which PG decreases cAMP levels and releases the meiotic arrest is still unclear. In this study we aimed to determine if PG treatment can promote GPRx desensitization and endocytosis leading to Xenopus oocyte maturation. As previously shown, overexpression of GPRx-GFP in Xenopus oocyte completely blocks PG-induced maturation. We defined GPRx subcellular distribution (~80% at the cell membrane), confirmed its presence in early endosomes and showed that its membrane localization is crucial for its meiotic arrest. Although early data showed a dip in cAMP levels within 15 sec after PG treatment, we found that no less than 30 minutes treatment with PG was needed to fully induce oocyte maturation compared to overnight treatment with PG, and was accompanied with a dip in cAMP levels and a significant shift of endogenous and overexpressed GPRx-GFP distribution from the membrane toward the inside of the oocyte. PG may induce GPRx endocytosis by phosphorylating the Serines/Threonine (S-TSS) domain at GPRx C-terminal end, since mutating these residues in the S-TSS motif completely blocked the effectiveness of PG in inducing GPRx endocytosis. Moreover, dose response experiments using GPRx wt or GPRx S-TSS mutant showed that PG induce maturation more efficiently in the presence of low intermediate concentration of GPRx wt in comparison to GPRx S-TSS mutant. Our data argue that PG releases Xenopus meiotic arrest by inducing GPRx desensitization and endocytosis.
Pediatric road traffic injuries in Qatar: Identifying high- risk mechanisms and age groups
Authors: Consunji Rafael
Published: November 2013

Road traffic injuries are recognized as the leading killer in Qatar, causing 1 in 8 deaths. ten percent of all victims are children, under the age of 18. Evidence is needed to inform the formulation of preventive programs to make the children of Qatar safer on the roads. A retrospective analysis was done on trauma registry data of the Trauma Section, Department of Surgery, Hamad General Hospital. All patients, under 18 years, who presented with road related injuries from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2012 were included. There were 443 patients who made up 9.1 % of all trauma patients. 83.3% were male and motor vehicle crashes [MVC] made up 54.4%, Pedestrians [PED] 25.5%, ATV's 13.5%, Motorcyclists [MCC] 5% and Bicyclists [BIKE] 1.6% of all patients seen. Adolescents, ages 15-18, made up 56,4% of MVC victims. Toddlers, ages 1-4, made up 40.7% of PED victims. Older children, ages 10-14, made up 57.6% of all ATV and 61.9% of all BIKE victims. Targeted programs should be implemented to address the greatest risk for road trauma in each age-group.Implementing best evidence through school-based educational programs should be considered.
Investigating the evolution and future impact of cancer treatment methods from one-size-fits-all to personalized approach
Authors: Zeid Abe
Published: November 2013

Cancer therapeutics have developed and improved overtime. Currently, the most common oncology therapeutics are chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These cancer therapies predominantly follow a 'one-size-fits-all' strategy. They attach general features common to all cancers, although the dose size and frequency are typically customized from one patient to another. Two popular forms of cancer therapeutics are chemo and radiation. These forms use different approaches. Chemotherapy attacks fast-dividing cells in the patient body. Since chemotherapy does not distinguish between good and bad cells, it can induce side effects. Side effects include hair loss, bone marrow problems, and digestive system problems. Chemotherapy kills hair follicles, blood cells in bone marrow, and intestinal cells in digestive system. High doses are required for chemotherapy to be effective. Moreover, not all types of cancer respond well to chemotherapy. Cancer cells are "smart" in the sense that they can eventually "learn" and detect chemotherapy and "adapt/protect" themselves, rendering chemotherapy impotent. Radiation therapy attempts to avoid chemotherapy shortfalls by damaging cancer cell DNA in the targeted body part. Radiation offers two main advantages over chemotherapy: (1) the former is targeted, so it does not damage other body parts, and (2) it is more effective because the DNA of the cancer cells are damaged beyond repair leaving no chance for adaptation. Radiation effectively causes the tumor to shrink and die. However, good cells can still be affected by radiation, and side effects can still occur, e.g. fatigue, memory loss, skin irritation, scar tissue, and chronic bowel effects. More recently, newer cancer therapies (known as targeted therapies) attack specific features or mutations found in individual cancers in an attempt to kill fast-dividing cells without killing normal healthy cells. A targeted therapy attacks specific mutated proteins or DNA known as biomarkers, found in individual types of cancer. Targeted therapy works only on the targeted biomarkers. Only patients with the correct DNA mutation (biomarker) can benefit from targeted therapies. Targeted therapies have some advantages over chemo and radiation therapies. They operate in a wider "effective treatment window" and cause fewer side effects (joint and muscle pain, fatigue, skin lesions, diarrhea, and nausea) compared to either chemo or radiation. The paper offers a historic perspective of the evolution of the personalized cancer treatment approach, it enablers, current research issues and its future promise.
Epidemiology of traumatic brain injury in Qatar
Authors: El-Menyar Ayman
Published: November 2013

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and related death rates vary worldwide. Objectives: To evaluate the incidence, causes and outcome of TBI in Qatar. Method: A retrospective review of all TBIs admitted to the trauma center between January 2008 and December 2011 was performed. Patients' demographics, mechanism of injury, morbidity, and mortality were analyzed. Results: A total of 1665 patients with TBI were admitted, the majority were males (92%) with a mean age of 28±16 years. The common mechanism of injury was motor vehicle crashes (MVCs)and falls from height (51% and 35%, respectively). TBI was incidentally higher in young adults (34%) and middle age group (21%). The most frequent injuries were brain contusion (40%) followed with subarachnoid (25%), subdural (24%), and epidural hemorrhage (18%). The mortality rate was 11% among TBI patients. Mortality rates were 8% and 12% among adolescents and young adults, respectively. The highest mortality rate was observed in elderly patients (35%). Head AIS, ISS and age were independent predictors for mortality. Conclusion: In Qatar,TBI is reported in around 27% of all the trauma admissions;mostly due to MVCs and is associated with high mortality. Elderly are the most vulnerable group. particularly in the older group. Public awareness and injury prevention campaigns should target young population.
Level of maternal education is a significant determinant of neonatal survival: A PEARL study analysis
Authors: Rahman Sajjad
Published: November 2013

Objective: To analyze demographic and socio-economic determinants of neonatal mortality Introduction: Evidence suggests that it is challenging to reduce the infant and under-five mortality without specific focus on neonatal mortality, given that about 43% of under-five deaths and 60% of infant deaths are attributed to neonatal mortality. Hence, key to achieving MDG-4 is the reduction of the global total of 3.82 million neonatal deaths per year, especially the 3 million who pass away in the first week of life (early neonatal period). Socio-economic and demographic variables are generally viewed as important determinants to a range of health outcomes, including neonatal mortality. The current study collected and analyzed the socio-demographic determinants of Qatar's Neonatal Mortality during 2011 about which little is known in the published literature. Methods: A Prospective National Epidemiologic Study was carried out to assess the association between fourteen demographic and socioeconomic variables and neonatal mortality. Data was collected from the 2011 National cohort of 20,583 live births and 102 neonatal deaths and entered in Qatar National Perinatal Registry (Q-Peri-Reg). One fetal variable (gender), three maternal variables (level of education, occupation, age), three paternal variables (level of education, occupation, age), and seven household (family) variables (nationality, consanguinity, family income, house ownership, type of housing, family type, domestic help) were analyzed in a univariate regression model. Results: Less than secondary level of maternal education was associated with two-fold increase in neonatal mortality (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.23-3.53, p=0.009). The association between the rest of the thirteen variables and neonatal mortality was non-significant. Conclusions: Higher level of maternal education, as compared to lower level of maternal education, is significantly associated with reduced neonatal mortality. Keywords: neonatal mortality, demographic, socio-economic variables, maternal, paternal, household, family
Facilitated LMA fiberoptic intubation while keeping on ventilation in ischemic heart patient with unexpected difficult airway
Authors: Abdalla Mahmoud
Published: November 2013

Facilitated LMA fiberoptic intubation while keeping on ventilation in ischemic heart patient with unexpected difficult airway Authors: Mahmoud Abdalla MD. Hesham Ewila,MD. Hany Osman, MD. Abdulrashed Pattah MD. Institution: HMC, heart hospital, DOHA QATAR Difficult tracheal intubation remains an important cause of mortality and morbidity during general anesthesia, especially in ischemic cardiac patients where hypoxia rapidly compromise myocardial function and may induce dysrrhythmias. We report 68 years old male was admitted to Qatar heart center for elective CABG with poor left ventricular function EF 30 -35 % .No signs of difficult intubation were appreciated preoperatively. Intraoperatively LMA was inserted due to unexpected difficult airway after failing of 3 optimized trials of intubation. Endotracheal fiberoptic intubation through LMA also failed as patient rapidly desaturated. We attached T piece to the distal end of LMA, keeping patient ventilated through the side port of T piece, fiberoptic intubation achieved through pre cut plastic venous cap 0.5 inch which was attached to distal end of LMA. Endotracheal tube with ID 6.5 mm was inserted over the fiberscope then exchanged over a ventilating bougie to 8.5 mm tube. No significant changes in heart rate, blood pressure or oxygen saturation were appreciated throughout the procedure time. This maneuver allowed us to secure the airway while keeping on ventilation without compromising the poorly reserved cardiac function or exposing the patient to hypoxia or hypercarbia. Key Words: fiberoptic bronchoscope, unexpected difficult intubation, laryngeal mask airway. Ischemic heart disease
SSRI antidepressant administration and dopamine transporter polymorphisms modulate learning from positive and negative feedback in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Herzallah Mohammad
Published: November 2013

One barrier to interpreting past studies of cognition and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) has been the failure in many studies to adequately dissociate the effects of MDD from the potential cognitive side effects of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) use. To better understand how remediation of depressive symptoms affects cognitive function in MDD, we evaluated three groups of subjects: medication-naïve patients with MDD, medicated patients with MDD receiving the SSRI paroxetine and healthy control subjects. All were administered a category-learning task that allows for dissociation between learning from positive feedback (reward) versus learning from negative feedback (punishment). Healthy subjects learned significantly better from positive feedback than medication-naïve and medicated MDD groups, whose learning accuracy did not differ significantly. In contrast, medicated patients with MDD learned significantly less from negative feedback than medication-naïve patients with MDD and healthy subjects, whose learning accuracy was comparable. A comparison of subject's relative sensitivity to positive versus negative feedback showed that both the medicated MDD and healthy control groups conform to Kahneman and Tversky's (1979) Prospect Theory, which expects losses (negative feedback) to loom psychologically slightly larger than gains (positive feedback). However, medicated MDD and HC profiles are not similar, which indicates that the state of medicated MDD is not 'normal' when compared to HC, but rather balanced with less learning from both positive and negative feedback. On the other hand, medication-naïve patients with MDD violate Prospect Theory by having significantly exaggerated learning from negative feedback. This suggests that SSRI antidepressants impair learning from negative feedback, while having negligible effect on learning from positive feedback. Further, we examined the influence of the 3' variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) polymorphism in the dopamine transporter gene (DAT1) on learning from positive and negative feedback in medicated patients with MDD. We grouped medicated MDD according to DAT1 VNTR genotype into 9-repeat carriers and 10-repeat homozygotes. Carriers of the 9-repeat allele, who presumably express less DAT1 and thus exhibit higher levels of dopamine, were more efficient in learning from positive feedback, whereas there was no difference between polymorphism carriers in learning from negative feedback. Overall, these findings shed light on the importance of dissociating the cognitive consequences of MDD from those of SSRI treatment, and from cognitive evaluation of MDD subjects in a medication-naïve state before the administration of antidepressants. Further, incorporating genetic profiles can guide future research to correlate the mood-elevating effects and the cognitive balance between reward- and punishment-based learning related to SSRIs.
Characterization of lipids from green Arabic coffee beans vs. roasted beans: Implications for coffee consumption
Authors: Ali Ameena
Published: November 2013

Background: The Arabic coffee is commonly used in Qatar and the Gulf region as a traditional drink. It is prepared by boiling roasted coffee in water after being milled. Coffee contains more than 1,000 compounds that are mostly produced during the roasting process (Parliament and Stahl, 2005).However, lipids and caffeine remain virtually unchanged, while sugars and proteins decrease significantly. In general, there is a difference in coffee consumption between Gulf and Western countries in that it is unfiltered drink. One study has shown that Arabic coffee significantly increased the low density lipoprotein (LDL) level of plasma in rats. This increase might be due to the direct consumption of infiltrated Arabic coffee as several studies showed that filtration in Drip-filtered coffee is important in holding the Chlorogenic acids Kahweol, and Cafestol "coffee Diterpenes" which in turn increase the total cholesterol (TC) and LDL. The Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate the lipid profile in the four main types of beans used in the market: Yemeni, Indian, Brazilian, and American coffee in the form of green and roasted beans using the LC/QQQ (Liquid chromatography triple quadrupole) and HRAM MS and MS/MS techniques. Research Methods: Lipids extraction was performed using Dionex ASE-350 (accelerated solvent extraction at high pressure and temperature) instrument for all coffee beans after grinding. The LC/QQQ was an Agilent 6490 using AJS-ESI ion source was used to analyze lipids in coffee extracts while HRAM MS experiment were performed on a Thermo Q-Exactive at a mass resolution of 70,000. The column used was ZORBAX Eclipse XDB-C18 1.8µX2.1X100mm (Agilent) and with Acetonitrile (0.1% Formic Acid) and Isopropanol (10mM Ammonium acetate) as the mobile phase. Results & Conclusion: Using this method TAGs profile was analyzed in all coffee types and the most abundant were: LPS, LPP. Vastly different composition of TAGs was derived using MS/MS. The percentage of lipids was the highest in Roasted Brazilian beans with 9.24%, while the lowest was in Roasted Indian beans with 1.48%. The lipid profiles are comprehensively described and differences among the specimens discussed. These results imply that intake of Arabic coffee can subject the consumer to unforeseen levels of lipids in their dietary intake.
Comparing two colorimetric AuNPs-based assays for direct detection of unamplified hepatitis C virus RNA in clinical specimens
Authors: Azzazy Hassan
Published: November 2013

Background. Two different approaches for direct detection of unamplified hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA have been developed using two types of spherical gold nanoparticles (AuNPs); negatively charged AuNPs [1] and cationic AuNPs [2]. Both assays have demonstrated good clinical performance, cost-effectiveness and short turnaround time compared to routine amplification-based molecular assays. AuNPs-based assays utilize the phenomenon of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) which is the origin of the unique optical properties of AuNPs and responsible for their color change from red to blue upon aggregation. However, the assay's target detection mechanism differs according to the surface charge of AuNPs. Methods. In this work, a total of 22 serum samples (11 HCV-positive, 11 HCV-negative) were characterized using real-time PCR and tested using both AuNPs-based approaches to compare and evaluate their performance in direct colorimetric HCV RNA detection. Negatively charged spherical AuNPs were synthesized using the citrate reduction method [3], and cationic spherical AuNPs were synthesized as described previously [4]. The prepared AuNPs were characterized using UV spectrophotometry and scanning electron microscopy. Total RNA was extracted from the serum samples, and real-time HCV PCR was performed. The extracted RNA was then assayed using the anionic AuNPs. For the cationic AuNPs approach, a modified extraction protocol that employed magnetic nanoparticles and a specificity-conferring HCV-specific oligonucleotide was used prior to addition of the cationic AuNPs. Results. The turnaround time using anionic AuNPs was about an hour, while that using cationic AuNPs was about 45 minutes. The anionic AuNP assay detected 90.9% and 81.8% of positive and negative samples; respectively. The cationic AuNP assay detected 90.9% and 100% of positive and negative HCV samples, respectively. Conclusion. The cationic AuNP assay showed better clinical performance than anionic AuNP assay for detection of unamplified HCV RNA in serum, particularly to rule out viral infection, which warrants further investigation. References: References 1. Shawky SM, Bald D, Azzazy HME. Direct detection of unamplified hepatitis C virus RNA using unmodified gold nanoparticles. Clin Biochem 2010;43: 1163-8. 2. Shawky SM, Guirgis BSS, Azzazy HME. Specific detection of unamplified HCV RNA using colloidal cationic gold nanoparticles. 19th International Symposium on Hepatitis C Virus and Related Viruses. Venice, Italy, 2012. 3. Storhoff JJ, Elghanian R, Mucic RC, Mirkin CA, Letsinger RL. One-pot colorimetric differentiation of polynucleotides with single base imperfections using gold nanoparticle probes. J Am Chem Soc 1998;120:1959-64. 4. Huang X JP, El-Sayed IH, El-Sayed MA. Gold nanoparticles: interesting optical properties and recent applications in cancer diagnostics and therapy. Nanomed 2007;2.
Mother and infant nutrition assessment (MINA) cohort: A Qatar-Lebanon collaborative study
Authors: Naja Farah
Published: November 2013

Background: The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region harbors significant proportions of stunting and wasting coupled to surging rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Recent evidence identified nutrition during the first 1,000 days of life as a common denominator not only for optimal growth and development but also for curbing the risk of NCDs later in life. Collaboration between Qatar and Lebanon was initiated to launch the first mother and child cohort study in the MENA region, examining the effect of maternal and young child nutrition and lifestyle characteristics on birth outcomes and growth patterns. The main outcome of this study is to develop evidence-based country-specific nutrition and lifestyle guidelines for pregnant women and young children to ensure optimal nutrition during the first 1,000 days of life. Methods/Design. This is a prospective three-year cohort study. Pregnant women (n=500) in their 1st trimester will be recruited from healthcare centers in Beirut, Lebanon and Doha, Qatar. Participants will be followed up three times during their pregnancy (once every trimester) and six times after delivery (when the child is 4, 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 months old). In addition, delivery and birth data will be obtained from hospital records. Data collection will include maternal sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics, dietary intake, anthropometric measurements, and household food security data. In addition, a blood sample will be obtained from the mother during her 1st trimester. Breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices, dietary intake, as well as the growth patterns of children will also be examined. The development of the nutrition and lifestyle guidelines will follow a multistep process using the Delphi technique. Discussion: The developed guidelines will help promote balanced nutrition and health during the first 1,000 days; constituting the foundation of effective interventions not only to ensure optimal growth and development but also to curb the epidemic of NCDs in the region. This study provides a unique opportunity for further follow up in light of the growing field of nutrition and disease risk.
A transnational initiative to the discovery of novel drivers of resistance to anti-cancer drugs
Authors: Fernandes Queenie
Published: November 2013

Cancers comprise of a complex class of diseases triggered by structural and expression abnormalities of both coding and non-coding genes. The functions,purposes and mutations in many of these molecular targets are yet to be discovered. Apparently the problem has an added level of complexity with the arising issues of resistance to anti-neoplastic drugs and other targeted therapy. An increasing number of cases exhibit both; lack of efficacy to cancer drugs from the start of therapy (primary resistance) as well as acquired resistance during the course of treatment (secondary resistance). Research teams at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Qatar and the Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (IRCC), Italy, are joining forces to tackle this big issue of resistance to antineoplastic drugs, with special focus on targeted treatment and their possible cooperation with chemotherapeutic drugs. The study proposes a large-scale integrated functional genomics approach to identifying novel diagnostic markers and molecular therapeutic targets in Colon, Breast & Non-Small Cell Lung Cancers. It involves expression libraries (cDNA, shRNA, miRNA) based screenings to identify molecular transcripts that drive neoplastic transformation or modulate cancer cells response to targeted treatments. The study is thus set to unveil valuable sets of bio-markers and potential therapeutic targets to enable early cancer detection and foster personalized treatment. Apparently it holds a promising future potential to open new lines into the establishment of a centralized, standard platform for functional genomics screenings also stretching to other (cardiovascular, immunological, neurological and metabolic) diseases apart from cancer within the State of Qatar.
The Arab psychogenomic repository for bipolar disorders in Doha, Qatar
Authors: Kronfol Ziad
Published: November 2013

Bipolar Affective Disorders are disorders of mood regulation that affect 1-5% of the population worldwide. The severe mood swings that are the hallmark of this disorder can interfere with the patient's personal life and career and often result in marked distress for the patient and family. While the etiology of the disorder remains somewhat elusive, genetic factors are known to be major contributors. Research in patients of European descent have identified several genes that are strongly associated with bipolar disorder. These genes include CACNA1C, ANK3 and Syne1 genes. However these findings have not always been replicated and it is not known whether these or other genes are also associated with bipolar disorder in populations of other racial/ethnic origin. In an effort to address this issue, we recruited 120 patients with bipolar disorder from different Arab countries. The majority were Qataris. All patients were clinically assessed with the Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies (DIGS) that we translated into Arabic and adapted to the local culture. The demographic and clinical characteristics of the patient population will be presented. Compared to patients recruited in other parts of the world, our population sample is unique in at least three different and important ways: 1) there is a high frequency of psychosis among our patients (>60%); 2) co-morbidity with alcohol and/or substance abuse is relatively rare (<20%) and 3) about 30% of patients had a family history of a similar disorder in first degree relatives. DNA extracted from a blood sample was obtained on each patient. The DNA was sent for whole genome sequencing at the Hudson Alpha Institute in Huntsville, Alabama in the USA. The sequencing was completed at a depth of 30X. The genetic variants across the genome through all genes, regulatory regions and intronic genetic sequence were encoded in the data. The total amount of data exceeded 10 Tbytes. We have just started the long and tedious process of data analysis that will be shared. These projects lay the foundation for the establishment here in Doha of a repository of clinical and biological data for patients with bipolar disorders. We hope this work will eventually lead to the establishment of the first Arab Psychogenomic Repository for Bipolar Patients in the Middle East.
At return to play following hamstring injury the majority of professional football players have residual isokinetic deficits
Authors: Tol Johannes
Published: November 2013

Background: There is an on-going debate regarding the optimal criteria for return to sport (RTS) after an acute hamstring injury. Less than 10% isokinetic strength deficit is generally recommended but this has never been documented in professional football players after rehabilitation. Our aim was to evaluate isokinetic measurements in MRI positive hamstring injuries. Methods: Isokinetic measurements of professional football players were obtained after completing a standardized rehabilitation programme. An isokinetic strength deficit of more than 10% compared to the contralateral site was considered abnormal. Re-injuries within two months were recorded. Results: 52 players had a complete set of isokinetic testing before clinical discharge. There were 27 (52%) grade 1 and 25 (48%) grade 2 injuries. 35 out of 52 players (67%) had at least one out of the three hamstring-related isokinetic parameters display a deficit of more than 10%. The percentage of players with 10% deficit for Hamstring concentric 60°*s-1, 300°*s-1 and Hamstring eccentric was respectively 39%, 29% and 28%. There was no significant difference of mean isokinetic peak torques and 10% isokinetic deficits in players without re-injury (N=46) compared to players with re-injury (N=6). Conclusion: 67% of the clinically recovered hamstring injuries showed at least one hamstring isokinetic testing deficit of more than 10%. Normalisation of isokinetic strength seems not to be a necessary result of the successful completion of a football specific rehabilitation programme. The possible association between isokinetic strength deficit and increased re-injury risk remains unknown.
Genome and transcriptome profiles of matched ovarian primary and metastasis sites in three patients
Authors: Halabi Najeeb
Published: November 2013

Metastasis to the peritoneum and lymph node is associated with poor survival in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). To better understand EOC metastasis, we carried out exome sequencing, RNA sequencing and copy number variation (CNV) studies on ovary, peritoneum and lymph node tumors from three patients. To analyze single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from exome and RNA sequencing data, we use the ratio of reference allele reads to the total number of reads as a measure of a site's allele distribution. This approach is more appropriate for analyzing heterogeneous cancer samples than standard SNP calling methods. Analysis of significant SNP, CNV and gene expression shifts across tumor sites and patients reveals a large degree of heterogeneity between patients. The small number of shifting alleles and differentially expressed genes conserved across patients could be interesting genes for further study. In addition, using both the exome and RNA sequencing data, we identify specific alleles that are expressed at significantly higher and lower levels than expected from the genomic allele ratios. These differentially expressed alleles are very interesting candidates for further study as they may indicate tumor selection for particular alleles. Overall, our results indicate a remarkably heterogeneous landscape of ovarian cancer primary tumors and metastasis and suggest that a more patient-specific research and treatment approach is advisable to achieve better patient outcomes.
Exploring professional intervention and support for breastfeeding practices in the primary health care centers in Qatar: A mixed-method study
Authors: Nikaiin Behi
Published: November 2013

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended as the optimal way to feed infants during the first months of infancy. Despite this fact, a UNICEF report shows that only 12% of mothers in the state of Qatar exclusively breastfed their babies during 6 months after birth. This study is a follow up to a previous qualitative study "Contextual factors influencing breastfeeding practices in Qatar" that was conducted in 2010. One of the findings of the study, which was repeatedly suggested by the participants, was that both the hospital sector and primary health care services should be actively providing support to mothers to improve the breastfeeding practices in Qatar. The objectives of this study are to 1) gain insight on the existing support systems that are available to breastfeeding mothers in the primary health care centers where the majority of mothers receive their prenatal and post partum care in Qatar (2) explore the breastfeeding promotion initiatives that are required to be implemented in the primary health care sectors to improve breastfeeding practices among women in Qatar (3) identify the culturally appropriate ways of implementing the required initiatives from the health care providers' perspective 4) determine the percentage of mothers who received breastfeeding counseling in a limited period of time and if they find counseling influential and effective. Methods: A "mixed-method" design has been chosen to address the above questions. The study consists of two major sections: a qualitative and a quantitative part. For the qualitative part, 30 doctors and nurses of the prenatal and post partum clinics will be interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. For the quantitative portion of the study, a survey questionnaire will be provided to mothers who visit the center during prenatal and postnatal visits. Result: This is an ongoing study and the results will be finalized by July 2013. Linking research findings to policy-making, service delivery, and practice are important dimensions of this project. In this presentation, I will conclude by presenting the study's results and make recommendations for future practice and research.
Proteins role on fretting corrosion of Co-Cr-Mo alloys dedicated to hip implants
Authors: Geringer Jean
Published: November 2013

250,000 total hip prostheses are implanted each year, in the USA (approximately 160,000 in France). It is worth noting that the locomotion for human is essential for common life. It is the reason why restoring gait by using hip or knee prosthesis if the natural joint fails is related to a huge health issues and scientific interests. This work aims at investigating the fretting corrosion resistance of Co-Cr-Mo alloy (low carbon content, i.e. under 0.2%) used as hip implant. Specifically one will pay attention on the effect of proteins on the wear of the metallic alloy against a material simulating the bone, i.e. PMMA (PolyMethylMetacrylate). Fretting corrosion means friction under small displacements, lower than 100 µm approximately, in a corrosive medium between two materials in contact. This friction mechanism has been isolated as the worst mechanism of degradations of hip implants [1]. The solution is based on human physiological liquid. However the chloride concentration has been chosen equal to 1 mol.L-1.. This concentration is higher than the one of the physiological liquid but the solution conditions are well used for promoting degradations of metal by fretting corrosion that they are focused in this study. In physiological conditions the metallic implant is at Open Circuit Potential. It is well demonstrated that experiments at applied potential, i.e. -400 mv/SCE (Standard Calomel Electrode) are very close from the resultsat OCP [2]. The wear volume has been measured by 3D profilometry (Bruker nanoscopeTM, ex. Veeco NT 9100). The main goal of this work is: showing the influence of proteins in order to know if there is any influence, for this specific alloy, under fretting corrosion degradations. The results, Figure 1, showed that the concentration of proteins has a huge effect on the Co-Cr-Mo alloy from 0 by 10 to 20 g.L-1. The wear volume is decreasing gradually and with a factor 4 from 0 to 20 g.L-1 of albumin. One might conclude that protein has a protective effect on the metallic wear. This one is a big concern due to metallic allergy from patients. The Figure 2 is showing two wear track area of Co-Cr-Mo alloy with and without albumin. The one without albumin is close the one without albumin obtained with 316L SS sample during fretting corrosion. The usual 'W' wear shape is highlighted without albumin in solution. With albumin the wear track area is different. The 'W' wear shape is discontinuous and some grooves in the direction of fretting are present. These images are in accordance with the fact that the wear volume of Co-Cr-Mo is lower than the one without albumin. On the image b), from the Figure 2, it is worth noting that localized corrosion is triggered outside the wear track area. Additional investigations showed that the wear volume of 316L SS is higher than the one of Co-Cr-Mo alloy under this condition.
MicroRNA-34a regulates diabetes-induced impaired angiogenesis: Role of SIRT1
Authors: Arunachalam Gnanapragasam
Published: November 2013

Background: Diabetes, characterized by chronic elevation of blood glucose levels, is associated with impaired angiogenesis, vascular dysfunction and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Recently, a novel class of small non-coding RNAs (miRNAs, single-stranded RNA molecules comprising 21-23 nucleotides in length) has been identified as important transcriptional/posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression and plays a critical role in the control of most biological processes, including cell differentiation and proliferation, migration, development, and apoptosis. In most cases, miRNAs function as translational repressors and/or activators that exert their action by partially pairing to one or more sequences in the 3'- un-translational regions (3'-UTRs) of target mRNA. Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1), NAD+-dependent deacetylase, has emerged as an important therapeutic target as it regulates various genes involved in endothelial differentiation, proliferation and angiogenesis. In-silico analysis supports the hypothesis that SIRT1 is a potential target of endothelial specific miRNAs. miR-34a has been recently found to target SIRT1 and reported to be critically involved in angiogenesis. In this study, we have investigated whether miR-34a regulates diabetes-induced impaired angiogenesis by targeting SIRT1 in mouse microvascular endothelial cells (MMECs). Results: Real-time PCR analysis reveals that exposure of MMECs to high glucose (HG) results in a significant increase in miR-34a expression and this induction paralleled and correlated with altered expression of SIRT1, eNOS (phospho/acetylation), makers of angiogenesis (VEGF, Ang-1, Ang-2, TSP-1) as well as a significant impairment of tube-forming activity. Interestingly, inhibition of miR-34a increased SIRT1 expression and attenuated changes in downstream signaling and impaired angiogenesis in HG-exposed MMECs. Conclusion: miR-34a, via the regulation of SIRT1 expression, has an anti-angiogenic action in microvascular endothelial cells. Thus, miR-34a may represent a new therapeutic target for the prevention/treatment of diabetic vascular disease and provide a potential miRNA-based mechanism for the regulation of angiogenesis. The project is supported by UREP 13-116-3-024