Optimizing electroactive membrane performance for microalgae harvesting: A response surface methodology study of membrane formulation and operating parameters for electro filtration.

Developing electroactive membranes for filtration has gained importance owing to their effectiveness in mitigating the long-lasting issue of fouling faced with traditional membranes. Here, we developed thin electroactive metallic films on to stainless steel mesh (SSM) using electrodeposition method and evaluated their performance for microalgae harvesting via electro filtration. The effect of electrodeposition parameters on membrane formulation and operating parameters for electro filtration, both in continuous and intermittent modes, were evaluated and optimum values were obtained using response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal combination of electrodeposition parameters is 1000 µA/cm2 and 5 min for deposition current density and time, respectively. Whereas the electric field strength of 20 V/mm with an application time of 1 min is suggested to be the optimal combination of electro filtration parameters for maximized flux recovery and corresponding experimental rejection efficiency of more than 90%. Overall, this research contributes to a better understanding of the parameters governing electro-filtration and offers insights for improving the performance of membrane-based microalgae harvesting systems.

The Effect of High Parity on the Occurrence of Anaemia in Pregnant Women.

OBJECTIVE: To compare high-para and low-para women with respect to haematological findings, determinants, and consequences secondary to anaemia. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive cohort study. Place and Duration of the Study: Maternity and Child Hospital, Hail, Saudi Arabia and Specialist Care Hospital (private), Islamabad, Pakistan, from April 2022 to April 2023. METHODOLOGY: The study population comprised of pregnant women in the last trimester, with the exception of those women who had more than one fetus and history of haematological disease. Purposive non-probability sampling technique was adopted. Hospital data were retrieved retrospectively for the past obstetrical, contraception usage, and supplement history. Blood parameters, type of delivery, and maternofetal complications were noted down. For qualitative-variable and quantitative-variable comparisons, Chi-square test and t-test were applied, respectively. Significance level was kept at p ≤0.05. RESULTS: The frequency of severe anaemia in high-para was 52%. High parity and anaemia had a significant dose-response relationship (p <0.05). There was a significant difference (p <0.05) in blood parameters between high-para and low-para groups. Main determinants identified for anaemia were lack of intake of iron-rich food (36%) followed by inadequate intake of oral iron (25%). Preterm birth (68%) and post-partum haemorrhage (96%) were significantly associated (p <0.05) with high parity. There was a significantly high proportion (83%) of high-para women with more than 3 cesarean deliveries and admissions in ICU. CONCLUSION: High parity and anaemia had a significant dose-response relationship. High parity was the main determinant of maternal and fetal admissions in ICU. KEY WORDS: Parity, Comparison, Maternal anaemia, Haematological findings, Diet, Contraception, Cost-effective.

The Association between Grand Multiparity and Adverse Neonatal Outcomes: A Retrospective Cohort Study from Ha'il, Saudi Arabia.

Inconsistent evidence exists regarding the association of grand multiparity with adverse neonatal outcomes. This study aims to compare specific adverse outcomes in grand multiparas (those with five or more births at twenty or more weeks of gestation, regardless of fetal outcome) compared to those with lower parity (those with less than five births at twenty or more weeks of gestation, regardless of fetal outcome). A retrospective cohort study was undertaken at the Maternity and Children Hospital in Ha'il region, Saudi Arabia. After calculating the required sample size, data were collected from consenting participants with a viable singleton delivery. Socio-demographic variables, select maternal characteristics, and adverse neonatal outcomes (admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, low birth weight, prematurity, and APGAR score less than 7 in the first 5 min) were compared between grand multiparas and women with lower parity. Two hundred ninety-four participants were recruited (ninety-eight grand multiparas and one hundred ninety-six of lower parity). There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in relation to age, level of education, body mass index, and the occurrence of gestational diabetes. Out of the studied adverse neonatal outcomes after the adjustment for maternal age between the two groups, no statistically significant difference in the adverse neonatal outcomes was found between the two groups. Grand multiparity does not incur an additional risk of adverse neonatal outcomes compared to women of lower parity. Furthermore, increasing maternal age and comorbid conditions might have a more detrimental effect on neonatal outcomes than grand multiparity per se.

Role of Parity and Age in Cesarean Section Rate among Women: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Hail, Saudi Arabia.

In the context of the global increase in the rate of cesarean deliveries, with an associated higher morbidity and mortality, this study aimed to investigate the role of maternal age and parity in the cesarean section rate among women in the Hail Region of Saudi Arabia. This retrospective cohort study used data collected from the labor ward of the Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Hail, over a period of 8 months, forming a cohort of 500 women. Women were categorized into four different parity classes. The results revealed that there was no significant relationship between cesarean deliveries and maternal age (p-value, 0.07). There was no significant difference in the mode of delivery between the study's parity cohort group. A significant increase in cesarean deliveries was noticed among obese women with a BMI between 35-39.9 (52.14%). This increase was even greater among those with a BMI above 40 (63.83%). Fetal distress, malpresentation and abruptio placenta were the most significant indications for CS among all age groups (p-value 0.000, 0.021, and 0.048, respectively). Conclusions: The number of cesarean deliveries has no association with parity or age. However, there was a statistically significant association with BMI, a perineal tear after previous vaginal delivery, and a history of diabetes mellitus and gestational diabetes. The most reported reasons for CS were fetal distress, malpresentation, and abruptio placenta among all age groups.

Comparison of the Effect of Injection Enoxaparin Versus Conventional Treatment on Amniotic Fluid Index in Borderline Oligohydramnios in Third Trimester of Pregnancy: A Randomized Control Trial in a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Background: Oligohydramnios is defined as amniotic fluid index (AFI) less than or equal to 5cm. A borderline AFI has been defined as an AFI of 5.1cm to 8cm. The incidence of borderline AFI compared with a normal AFI (8.1cm to 18cm) is 6% to 44% in different studies. A decrease in amniotic fluid leads to serious complications for the mother and fetus. The study objective was to evaluate if an injection of Enoxaparin improves the amount of liquor in oligohydramnios in the third trimester of pregnancy. Methodology: A randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary care obstetric center, involving a total of 130 participants. Inclusion criteria include participant in 3rd trimester of pregnancy, singleton pregnancy, intact amniotic membranes, and no known medical disorder. Patients with multiple pregnancies, ruptured amniotic membranes, anomalous fetuses, and known medical disorders were excluded. These participants were divided into two groups, each consisting of 65 participants. Group A received conventional treatment (intravenous fluid, tablet Aspirin, and rest in lateral position), while Group B received an injection of enoxaparin in addition to conventional treatment. AFI measurements were performed in the radiology department by radiologists using standard 4 quadrant measurements, twice weekly after the initiation of the treatment. The weight of the baby noted at birth and admission to neonatal intensive care was noted to assess the health of the neonate. Data was analyzed on SPSS (statistical package for social sciences) version 23. Results: In group A, the AFI increased after treatment in 47(72.3%) patients, remained static in 6(9.2%) patients, and decreased in 12(18.4%) patients. Whereas in group B, AFI increased in 31(68.8%) patients and decreased in 14(31.3%) patients, p= 0.334. Conclusion: The findings in the current study did not demonstrate any significant effect of the use of injection enoxaparin in improving borderline oligohydramnios. Further research is needed to apply this research to the general population.

Early-Onset of Gestational Diabetes vs. Late-Onset: Can We Revamp Pregnancy Outcomes?

Background: We assessed risk factors, antenatal and intrapartum complications associated with early-onset Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in comparison with late-onset GDM. Methods: This retrospective study included 161 GDM women having singleton pregnancies, without previous medical disorder and delivered at a tertiary care Hospital in Ha'il City, KSA from Dec 2020 till Jun 2021. Women diagnosed at < 24 weeks of pregnancy were grouped as early-onset GDM (n=71) and those diagnosed at ≥ 24 weeks as late-onset GDM (n=90). Both groups were matched for background variables. Chi-square and binary logistic regression analysis were applied with P-value significance at 0.05. Results: Past history of GDM, macrosomia and stillbirth were significant predictors for early-onset GDM (P value 0.000, 0.002 and 0.040 respectively). Regression analysis showed early-onset GDM significantly increases the risk for recurrent urinary tract infections (AOR 2.35), polyhydramnios (AOR 2.81), reduced fetal movements (AOR 2.13), intrauterine fetal demise (AOR 8.06), macrosomia (AOR 2.16), fetal birth trauma (2.58), low APGAR score at birth (AOR 8.06), and neonatal ICU admissions (AOR 2.65). Rate of preterm birth, hypertensive disorders, labor onset (natural vs. induced) and cesarean section and intrapartum maternal complications were same in both groups. Conclusion: Early-onset GDM significantly increases certain maternal (recurrent urinary tract infections, polyhydramnios and reduced fetal movements) and fetal complications (intrauterine fetal demise, macrosomia fetal birth trauma, low APGAR score at birth and neonatal ICU admissions). Most of these adverse pregnancy outcomes can be prevented through early registration and screening, close follow up, growth ultrasounds, and provision of efficient emergency and neonatal care services.

Comparison of Fetomaternal Complications in Women of High Parity with Women of Low Parity among Saudi Women.

High parity is associated with the risk of fetomaternal complications such as gestational diabetes mellitus, hypertensive disorders, maternal anemia, preterm labor, miscarriage, postpartum hemorrhage, and perinatal and preterm mortality. The objective of the study was to compare fetomaternal complications in women of high parity with women of low parity. This involved a cohort study on a sample size of 500 women who had singleton births. Data were collected from the Maternity and Child Hospital, Ha'il, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Participants were classified into two groups according to parity, i.e., women of low parity and women of high parity. Socio-demographic data and pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, etc., were retrieved from participants' files. Participants were followed in the postnatal ward until their discharge. The results revealed that women of high parity mostly (49%) were married before 20 years of age, less educated, obese, and were of un-booked cases. Premature babies and fetal mortality are significantly high (0.000) in this group. There is a significant difference between the two groups with respect to maternal anemia, gestational diabetes mellitus, joint pain, perineal tear, miscarriage, postpartum hemorrhage, preeclampsia, vaginal tear, and cesarean section. Determinants responsible for high parity should be identified via evidence-based medicine. Public health education programs targeting couples, weight control, nutrition, and contraception would be a cost-effective strategy for reducing the risk of possible fetomaternal complications.

Macrosomia predictors and pregnancy outcomes in Gestational Diabetes patients: An observational study from Ha'il, Saudi Arabia.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence, risk factors for macrosomia and pregnancy outcome in women with gestational diabetes (GDM). Methods: In this prospective observational study, we included the data of 161 pregnant females diagnosed with GDM. The study was conducted from December 1st, 2020 to June 30, 2021, at the Maternity and Children Hospital (MCH) of Hail, Saudi Arabia. The data regarding risk factors of macrosomia was obtained from each patient. The patients were followed till the delivery of the baby. The data regarding the prevalence of fetal macrosomia and its associated outcomes was noted. Results: The prevalence of fetal macrosomia was 19.8%. Maternal obesity (OR 4.87), poorly controlled diabetes (OR 3.3), previous history of good-sized baby (OR 2.30), previous history of congenital abnormalities (OR 7.2) were the significant risk factors of fetal macrosomia. The prevalence of maternal and fetal complications was high among pregnancies complicated by fetal macrosomia. The prevalence of fetal macrosomia and other fetal complications was high in poorly controlled GDM patients in comparison to optimal control GDM patients. Conclusion: Fetal macrosomia is a common complication among GDM patients. Maternal obesity and poorly controlled diabetes are the common modifiable maternal factors contributing to macrosomia.

Thymol mitigates cadmium-induced behavioral and cognitive deficits by up-regulating hippocampal BDNF levels in rats.

Cadmium is a potent neurotoxin and induces adverse impact on brain function. Protective effects of monoterpenes on the CNS have been reported previously. The present study was designed to investigate the beneficial effect of thymol on cadmium-induced neurotoxicity. Rats were initially divided into 2 groups, vehicle control and thymol. Thymol (40mg/kg) was given orally for 14 days. Each group was subdivided into two groups (Vehicle control and Cadmium, Thymol and Thymol+Cadmium). Cadmium Chloride (5mg/kg) was given for last 3 days only to the groups assigned as Cadmium and Thymol+Cadmium. Behavioral parameters were assessed after 24h of last dose of cadmium. Brain sample were collected and BDNF was measured in hippocampus. The present study suggests that pre-administration of thymol provides a protective therapy against cadmium-induced intoxication by enhancing the brain BDNF levels and plasticity. Results further suggest that thymol not only ameliorates cadmium-induced learning and memory impairment but also reduced anxiety, motor incoordination and depression assessed by various behavioral tests. The study may provide a better apprehension of the neuroprotective role of thymol and highlighting its significance in the diet for human health particularly in cadmium intoxication.

Quality of Infertility Care Services and Emotional Health of South Asian Women.

Background: Treatment tolerability and treatment environment are two major spheres of infertility care that may associate with women's emotional health and coping mechanisms. Aim: The present study aimed at assessing the relationship between infertility treatment quality and various aspects of emotion-focus coping, problem-focus coping, and avoidance coping mechanisms. Method: The study was completed by using standardized tools and data from this descriptive, cross-sectional, correlational study were collected from 350 women undergoing infertility treatments in private reproductive healthcare centers in Quetta, Pakistan. Findings: Treatment tolerability was found to be positively associated with positive reframing (p < 0.02) and negatively associated with the use of emotional support (p < 0.03); acceptance (p < 0.01); humor (p < 0.03); behavioral disengagement (p < 0.01) and venting (p < 0.01). The quality of the treatment environment demonstrated a negative correlation between religious coping (p < 0.02) and behavioral disengagement (p < 0.01), whereas it showed a positive correlation with active coping (p < 0.03) and planning (p < 0.02). The linear regression analysis demonstrated that treatment tolerability significantly increased with positive reframing (R2 = 0.118, F(304) = 2.22, p < 0.03). Behavioral disengagement significantly decreased with better treatment environment (R2 = 0.111, F(304) = 2.09, p < 0.02). Discussion: We discussed the findings keeping in view the role of social, cultural, and economic factors related to infertility care in the context South-Asian culture, and recommendations are made to promote women's mental health and coping by improving some specific aspects of infertility treatment quality. Conclusions: High treatment tolerability may associate with some useful aspects of emotion-focus coping, such as positive reframing, whereas low treatment tolerability may associate with avoidance coping, such as behavioral disengagement and venting. Besides, the quality of the infertility treatment environment enables women to use problem-focus coping mechanisms, such as planning and active coping.

Pregnancy related complications due to obesity and gestational diabetes mellitus among women in Saudi Arabia.

Gestational Diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the major maternal health problems in Middle East countries. In Saudi Arabia, the prevalence rates of GDM fall in the range of 16.2% to 24.2%. The study determined the antenatal complications and adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with GDM among a sample of Obese/GDM and Non-Obese/GDM women. A record based retrospective study was conducted including females who received obstetric care in a tertiary care hospital in Ha'il city of Saudi Arabia from December 2020 to June 2021. We gathered data from the medical records of 376 pregnant females who were registered and delivered at Maternity and Children Hospital (MCH). Multinomial regression analysis was applied to determine independent association of GDM and Obesity with pre-postnatal health outcomes. Out of 376 pregnant women 29.2% were identified as (Non-Obese/Non-GDM); 37.1% of women as having both conditions (GDM/Obesity); 19.2% as (Non-Obese/GDM) and 14.1% as (Obese/Non-GDM). The proportion of underweight and overweight babies were high in women with both conditions (Obese/GDM). Findings from our regression analysis demonstrated that Non-Obese/GDM women were 2.7 times more likely to have high child birthweight (p <0.001) when compared to Non-Obese/Non-GDM. Obese/GDM women were more likely to have low Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration (APGAR) scores (p <0.001) and increase neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions (p<0.01). Healthcare policy makers and professionals should revisit gaps in existing obstetrical care to prevent adverse impact on women and newborn health. Non-Obese women at risk of GDM should also be given due attention for early screening, timely diagnosis, and appropriate pre-postnatal care.

Neuroprotective role of a monoterpene (thymol) on diazepam induced withdrawal symptoms in rats.

Benzodiazepine administration is known to be related to tolerance and a withdrawal syndrome on sudden cessation. Thymol possesses multiple biological properties especially in the pathogenesis of different brain disorders. However, to the best of our knowledge there is no study that relates the use of thymol to benzodiazepine induced withdrawal symptoms. Therefore the aim of the current study was to investigate the usefulness of thymol in the treatment of benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome in rats. Animals were divided into four groups, thymol (40mg/kg/ml), diazepam (4 mg/kg), thymol + diazepam and vehicle control group. The treatment was given for 14 days and then suddenly ceased. After 24 h animals were tested in different behavioral paradigms such as physical signs for withdrawal, marble burying test, inverted screen test, elevated plus maze, passive avoidance test and open field activity. The results of the present study revealed that co-administration of thymol significantly reduced the withdrawal symptoms induced by diazepam. Our results further suggest that administration of thymol not only ameliorates rebound anxiety associated with diazepam withdrawal but also improves motor and memory impairment in rats.

Surface functionalized cellulose fibers - A renewable adsorbent for removal of plastic nanoparticles from water.

Both micro- and nanoparticles of common plastic materials are considered as emerging pollutants with significant impact on the environment owing to large concentration, high stability and widespread distribution. To mitigate the risk of such pollutants, new methodologies for the detection and removal of plastic nanoparticles from the environment are needed. Here, a simple and effective method of using surface modified cellulose fibers for the removal of polymer nanoparticles from spiked water samples is discussed in detail. Almost quantitative (> 98%) removal of polymer nanoparticles and high adsorption efficiencies were obtained within 30 minutes. The mechanism of adsorption of polymer nanoparticles on the surface of PEI@CE fibers was monitored by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, kinetic studies, thermal analyses, changes in zeta potentials and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The renewable adsorbent PEI@CE is a promising material for a wide range of applications owing to biodegradability, easy accessibility, and high extraction efficiencies.

Severe combined immunodeficiency due to adenosine deaminase deficiency.

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency is the term applied to a group of rare genetic disorders characterised by defective or absent T and B cell functions. Patients usually present in first 6 months of life with respiratory/gastrointestinal tract infections and failure to thrive. Among the various types of severe combined immunodeficiency, enzyme deficiencies are relatively less common. We report the case of a 6 years old girl having severe combined immunodeficiency due to adenosine deaminase deficiency.