- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19856
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- Sheena Mariam Thomas + 2 more
Introduction: Male infertility and prostate cancer are both significant global health issues. Male infertility refers to the failure to conceive after a year of unprotected sexual intercourse. Prostate cancer, primarily found in older men, poses a substantial health risk globally. Recent research suggests a possible connection between male reproductive dysfunction and prostate carcinoma. Methodology: A thorough analysis of existing literature was undertaken utilizing automated databases, which included Embase, PubMed, and Google Scholar. In conducting this meta-analysis, we implemented the standards charted by the PRISMA guidelines. Findings were included investigating the link between GSTP1 gene variants, estrogen receptor genes (PvuII, XbaI, and AluI), male infertility, and prostate cancer. Criteria for inclusion required case vs. control study designs providing data on genotype and allele frequencies. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS) and assessment of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) were employed for evaluating methodological quality. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4, with significance defined as p < 0.05. Results: The meta-analysis encompassed 24 case-control studies. Significant associations were observed between GSTP1 gene polymorphisms, particularly the Ile105Val genotype, and male infertility and prostate cancer in the allelic and homozygote models. However, substantial correlations involving the estrogen receptor gene polymorphisms (PvuII, XbaI, and AluI) and male infertility or prostate cancer were not found. Conclusion: The meta-analysis shows a significant correlation between GSTP1 gene variations and both impaired male fertility and prostatic carcinoma. These results indicate a possible genetic predisposition to these conditions, underscoring the demand for additional exploration to elucidate the function of genetic influences in male reproductive health.
- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19851
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- Huda Omran
Introduction: Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) gene polymorphisms significantly impact ovarian function, follicular development, and fertility outcomes. This review explores the global distribution of AMH gene polymorphisms, emphasizing unique genetic patterns in Arab populations due to high genetic diversity and consanguinity. Methods: The review examines methodologies such as genetic analysis and hormone level measurement, along with their application in understanding AMH polymorphisms. It integrates findings from diverse populations to explore genetic, hormonal, and clinical correlations. Results: Findings indicate a distinct distribution of AMH gene polymorphisms in Arab countries. These polymorphisms are associated with variations in hormonal profiles, ovarian reserve, and reproductive outcomes, particularly in assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Conclusion: AMH gene polymorphisms have profound implications for reproductive health and fertility treatments. Tailored research addressing genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors is essential to understanding these polymorphisms and their interactions. This review underscores the importance of genetic screening and highlights potential advancements in personalized medicine and fertility care.
- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19857
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- Hani Albalawi + 5 more
Introduction: The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test is a widely accepted tool for evaluating physical function in older adults. TUG is traditionally conducted in clinical settings through in-person appointments. However, barriers such as living in rural areas or facing limited healthcare access have driven the exploration of tele-assessments. This study aims to assess the agreement between asynchronous tele-assessments and in-person assessments of the TUG test for adults aged 50 and older in a Saudi community. Methods: A cross-over comparative study involving 33 participants aged 50 years and older was conducted. Each participant underwent both asynchronous tele-assessment and in-person assessment of the TUG test on the same day. The agreement between the two methods was evaluated using a paired t-test, Bland-Altman analysis, and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC). The ICC was calculated using a two-way random-effects model (ICC(2,1)). Results: The mean scores obtained using the two methods were comparable with statistically insignificant differences, with excellent agreement indicated by an ICC(2,1) of 0.988 (95% CI: 0.976–0.994). Bland-Altman plots further confirmed that the differences were within clinically acceptable limits. Conclusion: Asynchronous tele-assessment can be a viable alternative, particularly for older adults in remote areas or those with limited access to healthcare facilities.
- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19854
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- Carlos Bustamante + 1 more
Introduction: Neuraltherapeutic Medicine (NTM), also known as Neural Therapy, is thought to exert modulatory effects on nonspecific responses through stimuli to the psychoneuroimmunoendocrine system, enhancing the system’s self-regulatory and adaptive capacities and increasing its resilience to stress that triggers specific pathophysiological events. Various studies have highlighted the potential of NTM in managing inflammatory conditions. Case Report: This case report presents the clinical course of a 37-year-old male patient treated at a Neuraltherapeutic Medicine service in a public hospital for persistent symptoms following a course of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) infection, diagnosed as post-acute coronavirus 2019 syndrome (PACS) based on his ongoing symptoms and a retrospective review of his medical records. The patient received four neuraltherapeutic sessions over a period of 60 days and showed satisfactory clinical improvement during a 22-month follow-up. Conclusion: This case highlights the potential role of Neuraltherapeutic Medicine in addressing persistent sequelae of COVID-19 infection. While the results are promising, further research is necessary to establish its effectiveness and safety in this patient population.
- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19852
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- Rehab Sh Al-Maliki
Introduction: Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) is a frequent cause of male reproductive issues, but its etiology remains unclear. This study investigated the associations between immune markers, epigenetic alterations, and sperm parameters in men with OAT compared to healthy individuals. Methods: A case-control study included 40 OAT patients and 40 healthy, fertile men as a control group. Flow cytometric analysis was performed to enumerate specific T lymphocyte populations (CD4+ and CD8+). To assess key inflammatory markers, including TNF-α and IL-6, ELISA technique was used. Gene methylation of H19 was evaluated using bisulfite sequencing. Sperm parameters were analyzed according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Results: Findings indicated significantly elevated levels of helper and cytotoxic T lymphocytes, along with increased concentrations of pro-inflammatory mediators in OAT patients relative to healthy controls. These immune markers exhibited strong inverse relationships with key sperm quality parameters. Statistical analysis using the area under the curve (AUC) showed high differential power of these biomarkers in distinguishing OAT patients from controls. As well, significantly reduced H19 gene methylation in OAT patients was observed relative to controls. Subgroup analyses revealed associations between these immune markers and various socio-demographic and clinical factors. Discussion: The observed elevations in immune markers and decreased H19 methylation in OAT patients suggest probable roles for immune dysfunction and epigenetic alterations in OAT pathogenesis. The strong correlations between these markers and sperm parameters support their usefulness in clinical practice. The subgroup analyses draw attention to the complex relationship between socio-environmental factors and male fertility. Conclusion: This investigation demonstrates significant alterations in T lymphocyte subsets and inflammatory cytokine levels, alongside H19 gene hypomethylation, in men with OAT. These immune and epigenetic changes strongly correlate with impaired sperm parameters. Collectively, these findings indicate the potential of these markers as diagnostic indicators for male infertility assessment.
- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19859
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- Safaa Imran + 3 more
Introduction: The survival rates of cardiac arrest patients significantly improve when medical professionals deliver high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation. A thorough understanding of resuscitation techniques is crucial for medical professionals to perform chest compressions effectively and confidently, thereby enhancing patient outcomes. Aim: This study aimed to systematically evaluate the level of cardiopulmonary resuscitation knowledge among healthcare professionals across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, assessing resuscitation knowledge among healthcare professionals in GCC countries using studies published between 2008 and 2024. Relevant studies were identified through an extensive search of electronic databases including Google Scholar, Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, and PubMed. Results: The study included data from 6485 healthcare workers representing diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and training institutions. Overall knowledge among professionals was found to be average, with a positive attitude towards cardiopulmonary resuscitation training widely reported. Studies assessing pre- and post-training knowledge revealed that educational interventions significantly enhanced knowledge levels and fostered positive attitudes towards resuscitation practices. However, compared to immediate post-course assessments, a notable decline of over 50% in knowledge retention was observed 6 months posttraining. Limitations of this study include variability in study consistency, potential bias from self-reported data, and the lack of standardized assessment tools across studies. Conclusion: This review underscores the critical need for comprehensive and regular training programs, either annually or biannually, to ensure that healthcare professionals maintain the knowledge and confidence required to deliver high-quality care during cardiac arrest scenarios.
- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19858
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- Rasha Kadri Ibrahim + 1 more
Objective: The study was conducted to assess the correlation between approaches to metacognitive learning and the academic achievement of nursing students and identify variables that predict academic performance. Methods: This study applied quantitative methods and employed correlational and descriptive approaches. The study was conducted during the 2023–2024 academic year and involved a sample of 215 nursing students. Statistical testing encompassed descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and regression analysis of multiple variables. Results: The level of metacognitive learning strategies was moderate. The correlation analysis revealed a positive and significant correlation between students’ overall metacognitive learning strategies scale score and academic performance (r (213) = 0.742, p < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analyses found metacognitive learning strategies, the number of classes, and age significant predictors of cumulative grade point averages. Conclusion: This study underscores the need for focused interventions and support networks to increase nursing students’ understanding and implementation of effective learning techniques. The findings can empower curriculum makers to explore integrating evidence-based teaching practices customized to students’ learning preferences, thereby maximizing academic engagement and accomplishment. Clinical educators can also use these findings to incorporate active learning methodologies and scenarios to increase metacognitive awareness, enhancing nursing students’ learning experience.
- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19860
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- N Prabhu + 2 more
Introduction: Nephrolithiasis, also known as kidney stones, is a common illness characterized by intense pain and multiple other issues. The development of stones is affected by metabolic processes as well as dietary and genetic factors, frequently leading to their recurrence. Traditional therapies, although effective, still have the risk of adverse effects or relapse. Plant-based phytoconstituents as well as bioactive compounds have emerged as an alternative strategy for the prevention and management of nephrolithiasis. Methods: This review examines plant-derived bioactive substances used in nephrolithiasis prevention and treatment using digital databases like Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed, focusing on medicinal plants and nephrolithiasis management. The study evaluates a plant’s potential as a nutritional agent, its phytochemical and bioactive properties, its targeting of specific renal stones, and its mechanism of action. Discussion: Various phytochemical compounds exhibit potential anti-nephrolithiasis effects by obstructing crystal formation, diminishing mineral supersaturation, and facilitating stone expulsion. Compounds that belong to Tribulus terrestris, Phyllanthus niruri, and Citrus limon, have demonstrated the ability to inhibit the aggregation of stone-forming compounds, including calcium oxalate (CaOx), uric acid, and phosphate. Moreover, these herbs demonstrate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities that may alleviate kidney problems linked to stone formation. Even though preclinical studies are encouraging, more clinical trials are needed to prove that these phytotherapeutic interventions are safe and effective. Conclusion: Bioactive substances derived from plants have a lot of potential as both preventative and therapeutic agents for nephrolithiasis. They could provide an effective and long-lasting treatment for kidney stones.
- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19855
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- Arpit Sikri + 2 more
Introduction: Saliva, secreted by the salivary glands, plays a vital role in oral health and the retention of complete dentures. Xerostomia (dry mouth), commonly seen in elderly patients with conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, poses significant challenges in denture retention, mastication, and swallowing. Case Report: This report describes a patient with Sjögren’s syndrome who presented with compromised denture retention due to severe dry mouth. To address this, a reservoir denture was fabricated, allowing for the introduction of artificial saliva via a syringe, significantly improving the patient’s ability to chew and swallow. Discussion: Xerostomia, particularly in autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, affects denture retention and overall oral function. The innovative use of a reservoir denture with artificial saliva provides a practical and effective solution to these challenges. Conclusion: The reservoir denture proved to be a successful intervention, offering improved functionality and comfort, thus enhancing the patient’s quality of life. This approach holds promise for similar cases of xerostomia in denture-wearing patients.
- Research Article
- 10.18502/dmj.v8i3.19861
- Sep 30, 2025
- Dubai Medical Journal
- Salman Ghaffari + 4 more
Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease, affecting 10% of adults. It leads to functional limitations . The aim of this study was to compare patients’ depression, anxiety, and quality of life (QOL) before and after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted on patients with knee OA who were eligible for elective TKA at a Hospital in Sari, Iran, between 2020 and 2022. Patients completed four questionnaires before and 6 months after surgery: the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), the McGill pain questionnaire (MPQ), the visual analog scale (VAS), and the 36-item short form health survey (SF-36). The significance level for all statistical tests was set at 0.05. Results: Fifty-eight patients, including 7 men (12.1%) and 51 women (87.9%), were included in the study. The mean age was 64.91 ± 7.64 years. Postoperative evaluation revealed that the prevalence of anxiety and depression among patients was 44.8% and 27.6%, respectively. However, there was no significant difference compared to preoperative levels (P-value > 0.05). Discussion: A comparison of patients’ QOL before and after surgery showed that patients’ physical limitation, emotional function, and pain decreased significantly, and their physical function and emotional role limitation score increased significantly. Anxiety and depression before surgery, with and without controlling for the variables of age, sex, and other QOL components, had no significant effect on the perception of pain after surgery (after controlling for variables, P-value for depression = 0.16, P-value for anxiety = 0.60). Conclusion: Performing TKA significantly reduces physical limitations, emotional functioning, and pain. However, anxiety and depression had no effect on pain perception after surgery. This study demonstrates that older age is associated with an increased risk of postoperative failure, while better general health scores may reduce the risk.