Browsing by Author "Ibrahim, Ismail A."

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Citation Count: 15
Appraising Systematic Reviews: a Comprehensive Guide To Ensuring Validity and Reliability
(Frontiers Media Sa, 2023) Shaheen, Nour; Shaheen, Ahmed; Ramadan, Alaa; Hefnawy, Mahmoud Tarek; Ramadan, Abdelraouf; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Flouty, Oliver
Systematic reviews play a crucial role in evidence-based practices as they consolidate research findings to inform decision-making. However, it is essential to assess the quality of systematic reviews to prevent biased or inaccurate conclusions. This paper underscores the importance of adhering to recognized guidelines, such as the PRISMA statement and Cochrane Handbook. These recommendations advocate for systematic approaches and emphasize the documentation of critical components, including the search strategy and study selection. A thorough evaluation of methodologies, research quality, and overall evidence strength is essential during the appraisal process. Identifying potential sources of bias and review limitations, such as selective reporting or trial heterogeneity, is facilitated by tools like the Cochrane Risk of Bias and the AMSTAR 2 checklist. The assessment of included studies emphasizes formulating clear research questions and employing appropriate search strategies to construct robust reviews. Relevance and bias reduction are ensured through meticulous selection of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Accurate data synthesis, including appropriate data extraction and analysis, is necessary for drawing reliable conclusions. Meta-analysis, a statistical method for aggregating trial findings, improves the precision of treatment impact estimates. Systematic reviews should consider crucial factors such as addressing biases, disclosing conflicts of interest, and acknowledging review and methodological limitations. This paper aims to enhance the reliability of systematic reviews, ultimately improving decision-making in healthcare, public policy, and other domains. It provides academics, practitioners, and policymakers with a comprehensive understanding of the evaluation process, empowering them to make well-informed decisions based on robust data.
Citation Count: 0
Effect of Everolimus on Prognosis of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Lesions: a Systematic Review and Meta Analysis
(Elsevier, 2024) Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Abdelkader, Rem Ehab; Nada, Ahmed Hosney; Younes, Siham; Hanen, George; Shahwan, Ghena; Nashwan, Abdulqadir J.
Purpose: This study addresses the effectiveness of oral everolimus in treating various malignancies associated with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1). The purpose is to determine whether everolimus reduces lesion size in NF1 patients, considering the controversial findings from previous clinical trials. The scientific hypotheses and questions involve evaluating the impact of everolimus on NF1-associated lesions and understanding the variability in treatment outcomes. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA and Cochrane Collaboration guidelines. The study included four-phase II, single-arm, nonrandomized trials investigating the effect of oral everolimus on NF1-associated lesion size. The search covered multiple databases, and data extraction involved evaluating studies for inclusion criteria and assessing quality using the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies tool. Statistical analysis utilized Open Meta(Analyst). Findings: The search yielded 388 studies, with 10 selected for full-text review and four included in the final analysis. The quality of the studies ranged from low to moderate. The meta-analysis indicated no observed heterogeneity (I2 = 0%), and the overall estimate suggested no significant reduction in NF1-associated lesion size with everolimus ( P = 0.069). Implications: The findings reveal a varied and inconsistent picture of everolimus efficacy in NF1 treatment. The study highlights the need for personalized approaches, considering individual genetic and clinical differences. The limitations, including small sample sizes and nonrandomized trials, call for larger, more standardized research efforts. The study emphasizes ongoing trials and the importance of future research in understanding predictors of everolimus response and optimizing treatment strategies for NF1 patients. Conclusion: While everolimus shows promise in reducing lesion size in a subset of NF1 patients, the study cannot draw conclusive results due to limitations in the included studies. Ongoing, adequately powered trials are crucial for advancing the evidence base and informing the potential role of everolimus in NF1 treatment. Others: There was no funding for this review and no conflicts of interest.
Citation Count: 0
Effectiveness of Non-Invasive Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Parkinson's Disease: a Comprehensive Systematic Review And Meta-analysis
(Elsevier Sci Ltd, 2025) Abouelmagd, Moaz Elsayed; Yousef, Obai; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Elshahat, Ahmed
Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by movement impairments. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that has shown promise in treating various neurological conditions, including PD. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the existing evidence on the efficacy of nVNS in managing PD symptoms. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies published up to July 2024. The included studies investigated the effect of nVNS on various PD motor symptoms. The quality of studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (ROB-2) and NIH tool for RCTs, single-arm studies, and case series studies respectively. Statistical analysis was conducted using Review Manager version 5.4.1 with outcomes expressed as Mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: The systematic review included eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs), one single-arm study, and one case series, encompassing a total of 217 patients with PD. The review revealed that nVNS in increasing Freezing of Gait (FOG) in PD (p = 0.04). However, no significant differences were found in UPDRS-III (p = 0.19 and p = 0.89 for on and off-medication conditions, respectively), UPDRS-II (p = 0.9), UPDRS-I (p = 0.46), Time Up and Go (p = 0.61), stand time (p = 0.87), walking speed (p = 0.22), or step length measured in meters (p = 0.8). Interestingly, a significant improvement was observed in step length measured in centimetres (p = 0.0005). No study reported serious adverse effects associated with nVNS treatment. Conclusion: Our finding suggests a potential benefit of nVNS in reducing FOG in PD, but did not demonstrate a significant improvement in other motor symptoms. Larger, longer follow-up studies are needed to confirm the effect nVNS on PD management. PROSPERO number: CRD42024574822.
Citation Count: 3
The Impact of Interaction Between Verteporfin and Yes-Associated Protein 1/Transcriptional Coactivator With Pdz-Binding Motif-Tea Domain Pathway on the Progression of Isocitrate Dehydrogenase Wild-Type Glioblastoma
(Sage Publications Ltd, 2023) Osama, Mahmoud; Essibayi, Muhammed Amir; Osama, Mona; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Mostafa, Mostafa Nasr; Eksi, Murat Sakir
Verteporfin and 5-ALA are used for visualizing malignant tissue components in different body tumors and as photodynamic therapy in treating isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type glioblastoma (GBM). Additionally, verteporfin interferes with Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP)/Transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif - TEA domain (TAZ-TEAD) pathway, thus inhibiting the downstream effect of these oncogenes and reducing the malignant properties of GBM. Animal studies have shown verteporfin to be successful in increasing survival rates, which have led to the conduction of phase 1 and 2 clinical trials to further investigate its efficacy in treating GBM. In this article, we aimed to review the novel mechanism of verteporfin's action, the impact of its interaction with YAP/TAZ-TEAD, its effect on glioblastoma stem cells, and its role in inducing ferroptosis.
Citation Count: 3
Need To Address the Gender Disparities in Neurosurgery in India
(Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2024) Anand, Ayush; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Kathayat, Priyangi; Ansari, Ayesha; Aggarwal, Yash; Wahi, Riddhpreet Kaur; Rustagi, Sarvesh
[No Abstract Available]
Citation Count: 0
Nipah Virus Transmission: a Persistent Threat To Public Health Demanding Rapid Diagnosis, Innovative Therapeutics, Vigilance, and Research Progress
(Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2024) Islam, Md. Aminul; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Hemo, Mizbahul Karim
[No Abstract Available]
Citation Count: 0
Perfusion-Mri for Differentiating Cerebral Metastatic Lesions and Gliomas: an Evidence-Based Review
(Elsevier Sci Ltd, 2025) Azab, Mohammed A.; El-Gohary, Nour; Atallah, Oday; Shama, Mohsen; Ibrahim, Ismail A.
Background: Lesions affecting the brain are variable and have multiple pathologies. Brain metastasis is a common entity of lesions that can be misleading in diagnosis. Brain metastasis affects the patient's life and survival in about 40% of cases; all patients with metastatic brain lesions are indicated for surgery, so proper diagnosis is crucial for each patient. Non-invasive diagnosis is a promising way to confirm the diagnosis of cerebral metastatic lesions for patients who are not indicated for surgery for medical reasons. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence-based review article regarding utilizing perfusion-MRI for approaching cerebral metastatic lesions. Methods: A comprehensive database search on PubMed/Medline, Scopus and Google Scholar was done by the relevant keywords. Eligibility of articles was done by following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool was used to determine the risk of bias among the included studies. Results: From 2989 articles, only 31 studies were eligible for the qualitative synthesis. A comprehensive summary of the included study was made according to population, intervention, comparator and outcomes (PICO) method. Conclusions: Diagnosing cerebral metastases, categorizing subtypes, and monitoring their response to treatment is a challenging endeavor for neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, and oncologists. Technological advances in MRI software as perfusion-based MRIs are designated to facilitate diagnosis and follow-up for patients with cerebral metastases.
Citation Count: 0
Psychological Distress Among Students in Egypt and Jordan During the Initial Months of the Gaza War
(Springernature, 2024) Hendawy, Mohamed; Abouzid, Mohamed; Gamal, Aliaa; Ghanayem, Aseel; Amer, Muna; Tanashat, Mohammad; Ibrahim, Ismail A.
BackgroundPsychological distress has significantly impacted students in Egypt and Jordan. These countries have faced many challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the fallout from the conflict in Syria, and the war in Ukraine. These crises have had far-reaching consequences, affecting the economy, food security, and energy supplies, particularly with the increased number of refugees in these countries. Amid these existing complexities, the ongoing war in Gaza further exacerbates the situation, compounding mental health challenges. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze how the war in Gaza impacted the mental health of students in Egypt and Jordan. MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study involving students from Egypt and Jordan between December 2023 and January 2024. The questionnaire incorporated the Brief Symptom Inventory 18 (BSI-18) to assess the overall general distress score, as well as the domains of anxiety, somatization, and depression. ResultsA total of 1509 Jordanian and Egyptian students were included in the study, of which 66% were female. Approximately 18% of the students had an elevation (>= 50) in their BSI-18 total score. Females scored significantly higher in general distress [30 (18-44.25) vs. 24 (11-41), p < 0.001], and all three dimensions. The univariate predictors for elevated general distress (>= 50) were being Egyptian (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.08 to 2.08, p = 0.014), watching social media multiple times a day (OR 3.04, 95% CI 1.97 to 4.69, p < 0.001), and having a Palestinian connection (friend, neighbor, colleague, or relative) (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.23 to 2.16, p < 0.001). These three predictors were retained in the backward stepwise multivariate regression analysis model. The univariate predictors for moderate and marked general distress (>= 57) were watching social media multiple times a day (OR 3.26, 95% CI 1.78 to 5.99, p < 0.001) and having a Palestinian connection (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.05 to 2.14, p = 0.026). Only the former was retained in the backward stepwise multivariate regression analysis. ConclusionGeneral distress has increased among students in Egypt and Jordan throughout the War in Gaza. Mental, psychological, and social support activities are necessary for these students, particularly those watching social media multiple times daily. The development of coping skills to manage the additional stressors of war and socioeconomic status necessitates further research within this group of students.
Citation Count: 0
A Rare Presentation of Bilateral Periventricular Nodular Heterotopia With Intra-Axial Pontine Lesion: A Case Report and Treatment Approach
(Elsevier, 2024) Shenno, Milad; Al-Qiami, Almonzer; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Elhaw, Lojin; Nashwan, Abdulqadir J.
This report presents a rare case of a 19-year-old male with bilateral periventricular nodular heterotopia (PVNH), a congenital brain abnormality resulting from failed neural cell migration, along with an intra-axial pontine lesion of unknown pathology. The differential diagnosis of childhood brainstem tumors in such cases commonly includes diffuse midline glioma (DMG), which is associated with a dismal prognosis due to H3 K27 gene mutation. However, this case exhibits a unique focal dorsal exophytic brainstem glioma variant, accounting for only a small percentage (approximately 10 %) of pontine tumors and carrying a more favorable prognosis. The lesion is suspected to be a pilocytic astrocytoma, presenting distinct neurological symptoms. In this case, the patient presented with symptoms include mainly occasional tonic-clonic seizures, right side mild spasticity with ataxic gait and right eye blurring of vision along with right side facial palsy. The patient's clinical evaluation, in conjunction with various medical diagnostic tests and MRI with and without contrast, led to the final diagnosis. Management began with anti-epileptic medication, with a plan for further treatment and follow-up.
Citation Count: 0
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis for the Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tdcs) in Ocd Treatment: A Non-Pharmacological Approach To Clinical Interventions
(Pergamon-elsevier Science Ltd, 2024) Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Nada, Ahmed Hosney; Asar, Nada Khalid; Ibrahim, Rand; Farouk, Rawan Ahmed; Al-Qiami, Almonzer; Noorbakhsh, Seyed Ali
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a prevalent mental condition characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions), significantly disrupting daily functioning and social interactions. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) presents a promising non-invasive treatment modality aimed at alleviating symptoms. However, the evidence regarding its effectiveness remains inconclusive. This study seeks to address this gap by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials, offering improved guidance for clinical intervention. A comprehensive search strategy was implemented across multiple databases, including PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. This search focused strictly on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 147 patients. These trials evaluated the efficacy of tDCS in OCD patients. Subsequent data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and statistical analysis using Review Manager software revealed the potential efficacy of tDCS in reducing OCD symptoms. The meta-analysis not only fails to demonstrate significant superiority of active tDCS over sham tDCS but also suggests that sham tDCS may be more effective than active tDCS in reducing OCD symptoms. This finding diminishes the promise of tDCS as an effective treatment for OCD. Larger trials are warranted to further elucidate these findings.
Citation Count: 0
Ucscs in Treatment of T1dm and T2dm; a Meta-Analysis
(Elsevier Ireland Ltd, 2024) Nada, Ahmed Hossney; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Shalabi, Laila; Oteri, Vittorio; Asar, Nada Khalid; Aqeilan, Saja Rami; Hafez, Wael
[No Abstract Available]
Citation Count: 1
The Unlikely Combination: Anderson-Fabry Disease and Congenital Dyserythropoietic Anemia Type Ii in a Pediatric Patient
(Wiley, 2024) Elsherif, Yasmine; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Elsherif, Omar; Abukhadijah, Hana J.
Anderson- Fabry disease (AFD) is a rare condition, characterized by a lysosomal storage disorder affecting lipid storage. It manifests in two forms: classic (early- onset) and nonclassic (late- onset). Conversely, congenital dyserythropoietic anemia (CDA) is a rare blood disorder caused by ineffective erythropoiesis, which results in the production of abnormal erythroblasts during the maturation of red blood cells, with CDA type II being the most frequent type. Both disorders have well- understood pathophysiologies, yet they are genetically distinct. AFD is inherited in an X- linked manner, whereas CDA type II follows an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance. Although both AFD and CDA type II have been reported separately in the literature. The co- existence for both AFD and CDA type II has not been reported. We describe a 10- year- old boy, with both which is believed to be the first documented case.