Browsing by Author "Ibrahim, Ismail A."

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Citation - WoS: 98
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 - WoS: 1
Citation - Scopus: 1
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 - WoS: 2
Citation - Scopus: 2
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 - WoS: 7
Citation - Scopus: 6
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 - WoS: 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 - WoS: 3
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 - WoS: 2
Citation - Scopus: 2
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.
Post-Covid Neutropenia in an Infant With Thalassemia Minor: Case Report
(Wiley, 2025) Elsherif, Yasmine; Elsherif, Omar; Karimi, Mehran; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Abukhadijah, Hana J.
This case of an 11-month-old female who developed severe neutropenia following COVID-19 infection underscores the need for heightened vigilance and monitoring of hematological parameters in infants post-COVID-19. The exact mechanism of COVID-19-induced neutropenia is not fully understood, but it may involve cytokine-induced suppression of hematopoiesis and bone marrow repression due to the inflammatory response. Given the potential for serious clinical implications, including increased susceptibility to infections, it is crucial to effectively identify and manage neutropenia in this vulnerable population. Further research is necessary to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimize treatment strategies for COVID-19-related hematological complications in infants.
Citation - WoS: 3
Citation - Scopus: 3
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.
Psychological Effects of Robotic Rehabilitation in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury: A Narrative Review
(BMC, 2025) Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Mounir, Mennatallah M.; Hussein, Omar; Parnian, Nadieh; Sefertas, Ece; Ravanbod, Amin; Arican, Tuna Eren
IntroductionSpinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with severe physical, psychological, and social burdens. Robotic rehabilitation, especially robotic-assisted gait training, is increasingly used to improve functional recovery. Nonetheless, its psychological effects which are key to motivation, compliance, and long-term prognosis have received little scrutiny.MethodsWe conducted a narrative review across five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, Embase) from inception to January 2025. Studies were included if they evaluated robotic rehabilitation in SCI and reported psychological outcomes. Findings were synthesized thematically into domains of anxiety/technophobia, motivation/engagement, self-efficacy/dependence, and frustration/quality of life.ResultsRobotic systems frequently improved autonomy, motivation, and self-confidence, which corresponded to less depression and a better quality of life. Nevertheless, negative effects including technophobia, frustration from technological malfunction, and loss of self-efficacy from excessive dependence were found. Patient experiences ranged: empowerment and new optimism were reported by some patients, whereas others experienced the devices as complicated, emotionally alienating, or inadequately adjustable.DiscussionRobotic rehabilitation has a dual psychological effect. On one hand, it encourages engagement and emotional resilience; on the other, it carries risks of interdependence and diminished autonomy. There are ethical issues to be resolved access disparities, data protection, and preserving human connection that require careful management. The inclusion of psychological screening, education of patients, and specific goal-setting within protocols can maximize results.ConclusionRobotic rehabilitation is highly capable of promoting progress after SCI if psychological considerations are completely incorporated into rehabilitation interventions. A multimodal approach that is interdisciplinary and ethically solid is required to achieve optimized functional improvement as well as psychosocial health.
Ramadan Fasting and Seizure Activity in Adults with Epilepsy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
(Academic Press Inc Elsevier Science, 2026) Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Shaaban, Sally; Elewa, Mandy; Rahman, Muhammad Samir Haziq Bin Abd; Mohamed, Lobna Ahmed; Talaia, Ahmed M.; Khoo, Ching Soong
Purpose: Ramadan fasting in Muslims entails abstaining from food and fluids from dawn to sunset, which can influence sleep patterns, medication timing, and food intake. Building on evidence that ketogenic diets and intermittent fasting may improve seizure control, we aim to analyze the link between intermittent Ramadan fasting in adults with epilepsy and seizure activity. Method: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase between 2000 and January 2025 for articles that appeared between these dates. The terms used for searching included fasting in Ramadan with epilepsy or seizures. The seizure frequency and seizure status of the participants are the outcomes that we analyzed. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data, with a third resolving any differences that arose between them. Meta-analysis was done using the random-effects model with statistical heterogeneity using the I2 statistic. Results: Of the 1485 articles, only eight were found to be relevant, and 4 of these included 564 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The analysis of the pooled data demonstrated that 61.1% of patients remained seizure-free throughout Ramadan (95% CI: 38.8%-83.4%), with considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 87.7%). Seizure risk was higher in patients on polytherapy with poor baseline seizure control, increased fasting times, or high potassium levels. In contrast, extended seizure-free intervals and increased sleep duration pre-Ramadan were good predictors of safe fasting, and each seizure-free week increased the chance of remaining seizure-free by 10%, as did each extra hour of sleep by 30%. Seizure frequency increases were caused by interruption of daily rhythms, psychological tension, tiredness, and extended fasting. Conclusion: While many patients remained seizure-free during Ramadan, high study variability highlights the need for standardized research. With proper medical supervision, fasting may be safely practiced for selected epilepsy patients.
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.
Role of Cardiac Myosin Inhibitors in the Treatment of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: an Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
(Elsevier Science inc, 2025) Almansouri, Naiela Ennaji; Ibrahim, Ahmed; Mujahed, Ahmed Samir; Ghattas, Ahmad S.; Ahmed, Mahmoud Sayed; Ramdan, Omar M.; Ibrahim, Ismail A.
The Role of High-Fidelity Simulators in Vascular Surgery Training: A Systematic Review
(Springer Nature, 2026) Abdelkader, Rem Ehab; Amgad, Ahmed; Alshurman, Saba Hussein; Almanaseer, Ghadeer M.; Manoj, Rachel Mary; Iqbal, Uzair; Ibrahim, Ismail A.
BackgroundIn vascular surgery, endovascular procedures demonstrated lower morbidity and shorter hospital stays. However, learning these skills is highly challenging. A new method that offers secure, controlled settings for skill development is simulation-based training.AimThis systematic review aims to examine the different high-fidelity simulation programs and their effectiveness in enhancing endovascular skills among vascular surgery trainees.MethodsA comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, SCOPUS, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Web of Science using PRISMA guidelines. We included all studies of all designs involving high-fidelity simulation in vascular surgery training. The eligibility criteria focused on studies assessing simulation interventions comparing pre- and post-course outcomes. Data extraction was done manually using Excel spreadsheets by two independent reviewers, and quality assessment was performed using a 19-point scale. The studies were also evaluated using Kirkpatrick's adapted hierarchy based on their educational impact.ResultsA total of 35 studies met the inclusion criteria, covering a range of simulation modalities, including virtual reality, augmented reality, and physical simulators. The findings demonstrated significant improvements in procedural skills, operation time, operative errors, and participant's confidence across all training levels. However, there were great variations in study methods and design, as well as a lack of a specific framework for skill assessment.ConclusionFor endovascular training, high-fidelity simulation is a useful tool for skill development. However, Standardized training techniques and additional research are needed to assess long-term skill retention.
Safety and Efficacy of Colchicine in COVID-19 Treatment: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
(Elsevier, 2025) Nada, Ahmed Hosney; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Asar, Nada Khalid; Qenawy, Abdulrahman; Mohammed, Mariam M.; Wagdy, Mohamed; Farouk, Heidi Sherif
Background: Colchicine is an anti-inflammatory drug used for the treatment of gout and other autoinflammatory conditions. Several trials reported promising results of the efficacy of colchicine in Covid-19 due to its antiinflammatory properties. However, applying these results to clinical settings remains the subject of ongoing research. Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy and safety of colchicine in the treatment of Covid-19. PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched for relevant studies. The primary outcomes were 28-day mortality, invasive mechanical ventilation, non-invasive mechanical ventilation, and ICU admissions. The risk ratio was used to compare effectiveness between the two groups. Subgroup analysis was done for C-reactive protein and duration of hospitalization. Results: 17 randomized controlled trials with a total of 25478 patients were included. The overall Risk ratio didn't favor any of the two groups in terms of 28-day mortality (RR =1.03, 95 % CI [0.93:1.15], P = 0.58), noninvasive mechanical ventilation (RR = 0.81, 95 % CI [0.44:1.48], P = 0.49), ICU admission (RR = 0.89, 95 % CI [0.56:1.41], P = 0.62). The overall mean difference (MD) did not show statistical significance between both groups in terms of Creactive protein (CRP) (mg/dl) (MD = -1.21, 95 % CI [-2.42:0.01], P = 0.05), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (U/ L) (MD = 50.95, 95 % CI [-92.07: 193.98], Ferritin (ng/ml) (MD = 128.08, 95 % CI [51.97:204.18], P = 0.001), ICU length of stay (MD = -0.09, 95 % CI [-0.34:0.15], P = 0.45) and duration of hospitalization (MD = -0.41, 95 % CI [-1.56:0.73], P = 0.48). Conclusion: In Covid-19 treatment, colchicine didn't result in significant benefits in terms of clinical outcomes. More large-scale randomized clinical trials with standardized dosages and long-term follow-up are needed for further investigation into the colchicine effect.
Citation - WoS: 1
Safety and Efficacy of Depatuxizumab Mafodotin Monotherapy or in Combination With Temozolomide in Patients With/Without EGFR-Amplified Recurrent Glioblastoma: A Systematic Review
(Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2025) Moghib, Khaled; Hassan, Malak A.; Eljadid, Ghaith Y.; Salomon, Izere; Algazar, Mansour A.; Abu Arafeh, Muhannad Wael; Ibrahim, Ismail A.
This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of depatuxizumab mafodotin as a monotherapy or in combination with temozolomide in patients with recurrent epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-amplified glioblastoma multiforme, focusing on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus databases up to August 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies were included, comparing depatuxizumab mafodotin alone or with temozolomide in patients with and without EGFR amplification. Data extraction encompassed participant demographics, treatment regimens, and clinical outcomes. Of 102 screened publications, 10 RCTs and cohort studies involving 1431 patients met the inclusion criteria. The included studies examined depatuxizumab mafodotin as a standalone therapy and in combination with other agents, revealing OS ranging from 5 to 14 months and considerable variability in PFS. While depatuxizumab mafodotin shows the potential to improve survival outcomes, the heterogeneity in results highlights the need for further research. Future studies should refine patient selection criteria and explore alternative therapeutic combinations, such as depatuxizumab mafodotin with gemcitabine or cisplatin, to optimize treatment strategies.
Citation - WoS: 2
Citation - Scopus: 1
Safety and Efficacy of Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
(Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2025) Nada, Ahmed Hosney; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Oteri, Vittorio; Shalabi, Laila; Asar, Nada Khalid; Aqeilan, Saja Rami; Hafez, Wael
Introduction Many patients struggle to control glucose without side effects. Due to their immunomodulatory and regenerative properties, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) might treat Diabetes Mellitus (DM). The authors employed this meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of umbilical cord MSCs (UCMSCs) for DM management. Methods The PubMed, Cochrane, WOS, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of UCMSCs on DM (Types 1, 2) till January 2024. Patient demographics, interventions, and outcomes, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c%), C-peptide levels, and insulin requirements, were extracted. A comprehensive meta-analysis software was used. Results Eight CTs of 334 patients (172 experimental and 162 controls) were included. UMSCs treatment substantially lowered HbA1c levels (MD = -1.06, 95% CI [-1.27, -0.85], p < 0.00001) with consistent outcomes (i(2) = 0%, p = 0.43). Fasting C-peptide levels were heterogeneous but favored placebo (MD = 0.35, 95% CI [0.15, 0.56], p = 0.0007). In T1D patients, daily insulin requirements decreased considerably (MD = -0.24, 95% CI [-0.29, -0.18], p < 0.00001), with heterogeneity addressed by sensitivity analysis. Conclusion UMSCs therapy reduced HbA1c and insulin requirements, and increased C-peptide levels. Multicenter clinical trials are required to confirm the long-term efficacy and safety of UMSC therapy.
Citation - WoS: 5
Citation - Scopus: 4
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 - WoS: 1
Technical Approaches for Preservation of the Temporalis Muscle in Neurosurgery: A Systematic Review
(Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2025) Azab, Mohammed A.; Sarhan, Khalid; Atallah, Oday; Hernandez-Hernandez, Alan; Ibrahim, Ismail A.; Shama, Mohsen Nabih; Kammoun, Brahim
Background:The temporalis muscle is commonly dissected and mobilized during craniotomy. Cosmetic and functional complications may arise from the improper handling of this muscle. Surgery for recurrent pathologies may be challenging due to adhesions and muscle damage.Material and methods:A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted to consolidate literature on the potential techniques used for preserving the temporalis muscle during neurosurgical interventions. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched using predefined criteria from inception to 2025. A qualitative synthesis was done summarizing the primary cranial pathology, type of surgical approach, the technical clue for temporalis muscle preservation, follow up and complications.Results:We included 27 eligible articles with a total number of 811 patients. About 508 (62.6%) of patients underwent pterional approach, while 150 (18.4%) patients had decompressive craniotomies. Aneurysm clipping was the surgical indication in 172 (21.2%) patients, while decompressive surgery was done for traumatic brain injuries in about 48 (5.9%) patients. Osteoplastic temporalis muscle flap was used in 178 (21.9%) patients, while some authors sutured the temporalis muscle to the cranioplasty plate in 79 (9.7%) patients. Fixation of the temporalis muscle to the bone using sutures through small holes was done in 100 (12.33%) patients. No chewing problems were recorded among all the patients analyzed. Temporalis muscle atrophy was observed in only 13 (1.6%) patients.Conclusion:Proper manipulation of the temporalis muscle during surgery is crucial for the vitality of its fibers and to prevent postoperative functional or cosmetic drawbacks.
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]