Natural products in the management of neurodegenerative diseases.

Neurodegenerative diseases represent one of the utmost imperative well-being health issues and apprehensions due to their escalating incidence of mortality. Natural derivatives are more efficacious in various preclinical models of neurodegenerative illnesses. These natural compounds include phytoconstituents in herbs, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and marine and freshwater flora, with remarkable efficacy in mitigating neurodegeneration and enhancing cognitive abilities in preclinical models. According to the latest research, the therapeutic activity of natural substances can be increased by adding phytoconstituents in nanocarriers such as nanoparticles, nanogels, and nanostructured lipid carriers. They can enhance the stability and specificity of the bioactive compounds to a more considerable extent. Nanotechnology can also provide targeting, enhancing their specificity to the respective site of action. In light of these findings, this article discusses the biological and therapeutic potential of natural products and their bioactive derivatives to exert neuroprotective effects and some clinical studies assessing their translational potential to treat neurodegenerative disorders.

Unraveling the Endocannabinoid System: Exploring Its Therapeutic Potential in Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The salient features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompass persistent difficulties in social communication, as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive facets of behavior, hobbies, or pursuits, which are often accompanied with cognitive limitations. Over the past few decades, a sizable number of studies have been conducted to enhance our understanding of the pathophysiology of ASD. Preclinical rat models have proven to be extremely valuable in simulating and analyzing the roles of a wide range of established environmental and genetic factors. Recent research has also demonstrated the significant involvement of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the pathogenesis of several neuropsychiatric diseases, including ASD. In fact, the ECS has the potential to regulate a multitude of metabolic and cellular pathways associated with autism, including the immune system. Moreover, the ECS has emerged as a promising target for intervention with high predictive validity. Particularly noteworthy are resent preclinical studies in rodents, which describe the onset of ASD-like symptoms after various genetic or pharmacological interventions targeting the ECS, providing encouraging evidence for further exploration in this area.

Assessing Nutritional Anemia Among University Students in Jazan, Saudi Arabia: A Public Health Perspective.

Background: Nutritional anemia is a significant public health concern worldwide, particularly affecting young adults and children in Saudi Arabia, where inadequate nutrition is considered a primary contributing factor. This study aims to (i) examine the levels of serum iron, folate, and vitamin B12 in young adult students, with a focus on identifying any deficiencies and their association with anemia; (ii) explore the prevalence of mixed-deficiency anemia resulting from deficiencies in serum iron, folate, and vitamin B12 (iii) explore how sociodemographic characteristics and dietary habits influence serum iron, folate, and vitamin B12 levels. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study encompassed 158 young adult students at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. Blood samples were collected following a comprehensive questionnaire addressing sociodemographic and health characteristics. These samples were analyzed for complete blood count, serum iron, folate, and vitamin B12 levels. Results: The findings of this study revealed a significant decrease in serum iron levels, with 70.6% of males and 88% in females exhibiting reduced level. Additionally, low levels of folate were observed in 4% of the study population, while deficiency in vitamin B12 was found in 2.2% of the study population. However, the simultaneous presence of low serum iron levels along with deficiencies in folate or vitamin B12 was not observed in the study participants. Conclusion: The study indicates that there is a high incidence of low serum iron and ferritin levels among university students in Saudi Arabia, which poses a considerable public health concern. Conversely, the prevalence of folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies among the students was comparatively low, and notably, there were no cases where these deficiencies were observed alongside iron deficiency.

Exploring antithrombin: insights into its physiological features, clinical implications and analytical techniques.

Antithrombin is an essential protein that acts as a natural anticoagulant in the human body. It is synthesized by the liver and belongs to the serine protease inhibitors, which are commonly referred to as the SERPINS superfamily. The antithrombin molecule comprises 432 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 58 200 D. It consists of three domains, including an amino-terminal domain, a carbohydrate-rich domain, and a carboxyl-terminal domain. The amino-terminal domain binds with heparin, whereas the carboxyl-terminal domain binds with serine protease. Antithrombin is a crucial natural anticoagulant that contributes approximately 60-80% of plasma anticoagulant activities in the human body. Moreover, antithrombin has anti-inflammatory effects that can be divided into coagulation-dependent and coagulation-independent effects. Furthermore, it exhibits antitumor activity and possesses a broad range of antiviral properties. Inherited type I antithrombin deficiency is a quantitative disorder that is characterized by low antithrombin activity due to low plasma levels. On the other hand, inherited type II antithrombin deficiency is a qualitative disorder that is characterized by defects in the antithrombin molecule. Acquired antithrombin deficiencies are more common than hereditary deficiencies and are associated with various clinical conditions due to reduced synthesis, increased loss, or enhanced consumption. The purpose of this review was to provide an update on the structure, functions, clinical implications, and methods of detection of antithrombin.

Comparative Analysis of Red Blood Cells, White Blood Cells, Platelet Count, and Indices in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients and Normal Controls: Association and Clinical Implications.

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major health burden affecting 537 million adults worldwide, characterized by chronic metabolic disorder and various complications. This case control study aimed to assess the impact of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), including hyperglycemia levels, on hematological parameters and complete blood count (CBC) derived parameters. Methods: A total of 250 known diabetic patients from the Jazan Diabetic Center, Saudi Arabia, between January 2021 and December 2022, along with 175 healthy adult controls were recruited from Jazan Hospital's blood donation center. Demographic characteristics, medical histories, and relevant factors such as gender, age, BMI, treatment, disease duration, and comorbidities were collected with informed consent. Results: The results of the red blood cell (RBC) count, RBC indices, and mean platelet volume showed significant differences between patients and controls, while the white cell (WBC) and platelet count were comparable between the two groups. CBC-derived parameters, especially neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet/neutrophil ratio (PNR) exhibited significant differences. Conclusion: CBC and derived parameters serve as inexpensive tools for T2DM patients monitoring, indicating early blood cell alterations and potential development of anemia. Further studies are needed to explore their role in predicting T2DM pathogenesis and progression, aiming to reduce severe complications, mortality and morbidity.

Protein C and protein S deficiencies are associated with increased risk of deep vein thrombosis in pregnant women using oral contraceptives.

BACKGROUND: Oral contraceptives are commonly taken by women and are known to increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between oral contraceptive use and natural anticoagulants, that is, protein C (PC), protein S (PS), and antithrombin in pregnant women with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This case-control study was conducted on 330 pregnant women, that is, cases 165 (who used oral contraceptives) and controls 165 (who did not use oral contraceptives). The levels of PC, PS, and antithrombin were measured and compared between the two groups. The use of different types of oral contraceptives and their association with DVT and PC and PS were also analyzed. RESULTS: The study found that women with DVT had significantly lower levels of PC and PS compared with controls ( P  < 0.001). However, no significant difference was found in the levels of AT. Among the different types of oral contraceptives, first-generation progestin pills including Ethynodiol Diacetate, Norethindrone Acetate, Norethynodrel, and second-generation oral contraceptives (Lynestrenol, Levonorgestrel and Norgestrel) were not found to be associated with lower levels of PC and AT while Desogestrel, Norgestimate, and Gestodene (third-generation) were associated with lower levels of PS. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that the use of contraceptives, particularly those containing Desogestrel, Norgestimate, and Gestodene, may be associated with a higher risk of thrombosis because of the associated lower levels of PS. Monitoring anticoagulant levels is crucial in preventing DVT in this population.

Prevalence and Correlation of Vitamin D Levels with Hematological and Biochemical Parameters in Young Adults.

OBJECTIVE: Vitamin D has a pivotal role in maintaining healthy bones and in the modulation of multiple physiologic processes. Vitamin D deficiency has become a global burden that affects all members of society. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and correlation of vitamin D deficiency with hematological and biochemical parameters in young adult college students. Hundred and fourteen students (77 men and 37 women) were recruited. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The socio-demographic and clinicopathologic features of the students were evaluated using a pre-tested and validated questionnaire, and samples were collected for complete blood count (CBC), vitamin D, calcium, parathyroid hormone, and phosphorus measurements. RESULTS: Vitamin D deficiency was more prevalent in men (53.2%) than in women (48.7%). Calcium and parathyroid hormone levels were within the normal range, and 26% and 22% of male and female participants, respectively, had low phosphorus levels. Vitamin D showed a positive correlation with calcium in men (r=0.3927; P=0.005) and women (r=0.4122; P=0.0566). Although, vitamin D status had no impact on most of CBC parameters, significant positive correlation was observed with eosinophils in women. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D deficiency is very prevalent among college students, therefore health education and public awareness campaigns on the consequences of vitamin D deficiency on health and well-being are required.

IL-10 rs1800896 Polymorphism: A Risk Factor for Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Purpose: Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the promoter region of the IL-10 gene can increase susceptibility to tumor development. The current study aimed to explore the genotypic frequency of interleukin-10 (IL-10) rs1800896 polymorphism in newly diagnosed adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and validate whether this SNP is a risk factor for adult ALL. Patients and Methods: This case-control study was based on a subset of newly diagnosed 154 adult patients with ALL recruited from the Radiation and Isotope Center in Khartoum (RICK) and 154 healthy controls from the same geographical area. Genomic DNA was used for the genotyping of rs1800896 polymorphism through allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. Results: The genotypic frequencies of rs1800896 showed a statistically significant association of AG and AA genotypes with adult ALL (p<0.001). Combined genotypes AG+GG vs AA also showed a positive association of rs1800896 with adult ALL (OR=4.89). The allelic frequencies of G and A did not show any significant difference in adult patients with ALL compared with the control group. AG rs1800896 genotype showed an increased risk of B and T ALL (OR=2.51 and 4.70, respectively). Age at diagnosis, gender, and immunophenotype (B vs T ALL) did not exhibit any association of rs1800896 with ALL in this patient group. Conclusion: rs1800896 polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of ALL in adult patients irrespective of the age at diagnosis, gender, and immunophenotype of ALL.

Association of TNF-α rs1800629 with Adult Acute B-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

TNF−α influences lymphomagenesis by upregulating proinflammatory and antiapoptotic pathways. In this study, we evaluated the frequency of TNF−α rs1800629 (−308 G>A) polymorphism in newly diagnosed adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and its correlation with age at diagnosis, gender and subtype of ALL. In this case control study, a total of 330 individuals were recruited, including 165 newly diagnosed adult patients with ALL, from the Radiation and Isotope Center in Khartoum (RICK) and 165 healthy normal controls. TNF−α rs1800629 polymorphism was tested through allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. The frequency of the rs1800629 GA genotype was high (70.9% vs. 60%, OR = 1.84) in the patient group as compared to healthy controls, whereas GG and AA genotypes did not exhibit any statistically significant difference between controls and patients. Based on subtype, GG and GA rs1800629 genotypes showed increased risk of B-ALL (OR 0.46 and 2.12, respectively), whereas rs1800629 GG, GA and AA genotypes did not show any disease association with T-ALL (p > 0.05). Age at diagnosis and gender did not exhibit any association of rs1800629 with ALL in the patient group. In conclusion, rs1800629 is associated with high risk of adult B-ALL, with an insignificant effect of age at diagnosis and gender.

Patterns of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV Among Blood Donors in Samtah-Jazan Region.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Transfusion-transmitted infectious agents are amongst the major health burden worldwide. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among blood donors in Samtah General Hospital, Jazan region, Saudi Arabia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, blood donation records of all blood donors recruited between January 2019 and August 2020 were included for data acquisition. A total of 4977 blood donors' records were reviewed and data were analysed. RESULTS: Hepatitis B profile showed 0.60% blood donors positive for hepatis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Nucleic acid testing (NAT) showed the presence of HBV-DNA in 0.4% of the blood donors. Anti-HBs and anti-HBc antibodies were reactive in 3.34% and 7.31% blood donors' units, respectively. Anti-HCV antibodies were reactive among 54 (1.09%) blood donors. Upon reviewing the NAT analysis results, 0.16% (08) blood donors showed the presence of HCV-RNA in their blood units. Anti-HIV antibodies were reactive in 8 (0.16%) blood donors. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the frequency of HBsAg is comparatively lower while anti-HCV positivity is higher in Samtah, Jazan as a region compared to other regions of the country. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the cause of HCV infection in this area. Frequency of HIV is uncommon in this area.

Procoagulant Microvesicles in COVID-19 Patients: Possible Modulators of Inflammation and Prothrombotic Tendency.

Background: The hypercoagulability and thrombotic tendency in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is multifactorial, driven mainly by inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. Elevated levels of procoagulant microvesicles (MVs) and tissue factor-bearing microvesicles (TF-bearing MVs) have been observed in many diseases with thrombotic tendency. The current study aimed to measure the levels of procoagulant MVs and TF-bearing MVs in patients with COVID-19 and healthy controls and to correlate their levels with platelet counts, D-Dimer levels, and other proposed calculated inflammatory markers. Materials and Methods: Forty ICU-admitted patients with COVID-19 and 37 healthy controls were recruited in the study. Levels of procoagulant MVs and TF-bearing MVs in the plasma of the study population were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Results: COVID-19 patients had significantly elevated levels of procoagulant MVs and TF-bearing MVs as compared with healthy controls (P<0.001). Procoagulant MVs significantly correlated with TF-bearing MVs, D-dimer levels, and platelet count, but not with calculated inflammatory markers (neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, platelet/lymphocyte ratio, and platelet/neutrophil ratio). Conclusion: Elevated levels of procoagulant MVs and TF-bearing MVs in patients with COVID-19 are suggested to be (i) early potential markers to predict the severity of COVID-19 (ii) a novel circulatory biomarker to evaluate the procoagulant activity and severity of COVID-19.

Prevalence of Rh and K phenotypes among blood donors from different ethnicities in Samtah (Southwestern Region) Saudi Arabia.

INTRODUCTION: Rh and Kell blood group systems are amongst the most important blood group systems; being highly immunogenic after ABO system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequencies of Rh antigens, haplotypes and K antigen among blood donors belonging to various ethnicities in Samtah, Jazan, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This study was conducted during January 2019 and August 2020 at Samtah General Hospital, Samtah. Records of all blood donors recruited during this period were included for data acquisition. A total of 4977 blood donors' records were reviewed and data were analysed. A total of 3863 donors' results were considered in the final analysis. RESULTS: In comparison to Saudi blood donors, C antigen was less frequent in Sudanese donors (69.7% and 34.0%), the c antigen was less frequent in Indian (79.2% and 59.3%) and Philippine (79.2% and 40.0%) donors and more frequent in Sudanese (79.2% and 97.9%) donors, the E antigen was less frequent in Yemini (27.0% and 19.5%) and the e antigen was more frequent in Yemini (96.7% and 99.2%) donors. The DcE haplotype was less frequent (3.1% and 0.7%) and the ce haplotype was more frequent (4.3% and 7.6%) in Yemini donors. The K antigen was less frequent in Pakistani (11.9% and 4.1%; p = .041) and Indian (11.9% and 1.9%; p = .023) donors. CONCLUSION: Rh and K antigens showed marked variations in their frequencies among blood donors of different ethnicities. Utilization of blood from various ethnicities warrant extended phenotyping of Rh and K antigens to avoid the risk of alloimmunization in multiply transfused patients.

Red Cell Alloimmunization and Autoimmunization Among Sickle Cell Disease and Thalassemia Patients in Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia.

Purpose: Sickle cell disease (SCD) and thalassemia are common inherited blood disorders in Saudi Arabia, especially in Jazan Province. Patients with these disorders require multiple blood transfusions, which may lead to alloimmunization because of mismatched blood group antigens. In this study, we examined the alloimmunization and autoimmunization rates in patients with SCD and thalassemia together with the involved antibodies. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to review the transfusion history records of patients with SCD and thalassemia at Prince Mohammed bin Nasser Hospital, Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia. Results: Four-hundred thirty-eight patients (385 with SCD, 52 with ß-thalassemia, and 1 with α-thalassemia) were received leukoreduced red cell transfusions. The alloimmunization and autoimmunization rates in patients with SCD were 12.98% and 0.52%, respectively. In patients with thalassemia, the alloimmunization and autoimmunization rates were 13.21% and 3.77%, respectively. The most prevalent antibodies in the study population were anti-E (17.19%) and anti-K (14.06%). Conclusion: The alloimmunization and autoimmunization rates were determined in patients with SCD and thalassemia in Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia. The results highlight the need for extended phenotyping to include ABO, RH (D, C, c, E, e), K, Fya, Fyb, Jka and Jkb antigens in the screening panel. This will benefit patients to ensure better transfusion practices.

Effect of Altitude on Hemoglobin and Red Blood Cell Indices in Adults in Different Regions of Saudi Arabia.

Purpose: Complete blood count (CBC) is a commonly used blood test for health checks. This study was conducted to compare CBC from two different altitudes and from sea-level populations in order to suggest correction factor for altitude-related increment on the hemoglobin and red blood cell indices. Patients and Methods: In this retrospective lab records study, large datasets of CBCs over 5-year period were screened from three different regions of Saudi Arabia, Jeddah (a coastal city), Taif City located at 1879 m above sea level, and Abha City at located 2270 m above sea level. Descriptive analysis and significance testing of the CBC variables at different altitude were compared. Results: A total of 57,059 participants were included for final analysis. Mean hemoglobin (Hb) concentration (g/dL) was 14.81 for men and 13.77 for women at sea level, whereas Hb concentrations were 15.35 and 14.19 for men and women residing at Taif City, respectively, and 15.40 and 14.71 for men and women at Abha City, respectively. Hemoglobin and other red cell indices were significantly different among men and women across different altitude, except for mean corpuscular volume (MCV). The MCV 95th percentile range was lower at sea level and both altitudes as compared to current reference range (76-91 fL vs 81-98 fL). Conclusion: Although altitude-associated increment in Hb concentration was evident in both men and women, it was lower than as suggested by World Health Organization and Centers for Disease and Control. Results of this study can also be used to derive new CBC reference intervals for Saudi residents living at high altitude. A correction factor (ΔHb) of 0.30 g/dL per 1000 m altitude is suggested to be used in adult population living at high altitudes in Saudi Arabia which should help better define anemia and polycythemia at altitude.

Increased Risk of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Adult Patients with GSTM1 Null Genetic Polymorphism.

Purpose: Glutathione S-transferases (GSTT1 and GSTM1) detoxify various endogenous and exogenous compounds and provide cytoprotective role against reactive species. This study aimed to assess the frequency of GSTT1, and GSTM1 polymorphisms in newly diagnosed Sudanese adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and to evaluate the association of these polymorphisms with age, gender and type of ALL. Patients and Methods: This case-control study included 128 adult Sudanese, untreated newly diagnosed patients with ALL, aged 18 to 74 years and 128 age-gender matched healthy controls. Deletional polymorphisms of GSTT1 and GSTM1 genes were genotyped through a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay using ß-globin gene as an internal positive control. Results: The genotypic frequency of GSTT1 null polymorphism was 22.7% in cases and 14.8% in controls (OR = 1.68, P = 0.111). Statistically significant differences were noted in the frequencies of GSTM1 null polymorphism in cases and controls (OR = 3.7, P = <0.001). Combined GSTT1 null and GSTM1 null gene polymorphisms showed statistically significant difference in patients with ALL as compared to controls (OR = 6.5, CI 95% = 1.42-29.74, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Irrespective of age at diagnosis, gender, and phenotype of ALL, GSTM1 null polymorphism either alone or in combination with GSTT1 null polymorphism poses significantly increased risk of developing ALL in adults.

Correlation of Antithrombin Functional Status and Levels with Liver Fibrosis in Patients with Hepatitis C.

BACKGROUND: Abnormal levels of coagulation factors and their inhibitors have shown association with liver diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the qualitative and quantitive status of antithrombin (AT) in patients with chronic liver disease associated hepatitis C infection and their correlation with severity of liver fibrosis. METHODS: In this study, 75 (43 male and 32 female) known patients with chronic liver disease associated hepatitis C infection were enrolled. AT activity and quantitative immunoassays were carried out using Stachrom AT reagent kit (Diagnostica Stago, France) and Liatest AT reagent (Diagnostica Stago, France), respectively. Hepatic biopsies were obtained and graded for liver fibrosis from all study participants. RESULTS: Of the 75 patients, 45 had normal AT while 30 showed lower activity of AT. Similarly, the quantitative assay showed reduced levels of AT in 30 patients and normal levels in 45 patients. CONCLUSIONS: In the early stages of liver fibrosis, AT activity and antigenic levels were found to be normal or minimally affected. While advanced stages of the disease showed markedly reduced levels of AT and activity. Hence, it can be concluded that the degree of fibrosis affects the status of AT.

The frequencies of Kidd blood group antigens and phenotypes among Saudi blood donors in Southwestern Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: The patients who require transfusion are prevalent in the Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia. Therefore, it is essential to know the frequency of blood group antigens in such a population. The Kidd blood group system (JK) has two antithetical antigens, Jka and Jkb. Antibodies to these antigens may result in delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions. The present study investigated the frequencies of Jka and Jkb and the phenotypes among Saudi blood donors living in the Jazan Province. METHODS: One hundred and forty-three samples from anonymous Saudi volunteer blood donors in the Jazan Province were serotype to detect Jka and Jkb using gel card technology and determine the phenotypes of the JK blood group system. RESULTS: The prevalence of Jka and Jkb antigens were 90.64% (n = 126) and 69.40% (n = 93), respectively. The JK phenotypes were 34.96% Jk(a + b - ) (n = 51), 12.59% Jk(a - b + ) (n = 18), 52.45% Jk(a + b + ) (n = 75), and 0% Jk(a - b - ). The frequencies of the JK phenotypes in the Jazan population were significantly different from those in the Asian population (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: We reported the frequencies of the Jka and Jkb antigens and the distribution of the JK phenotypes in a group of Saudi blood donors in the Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia. The phenotype Jk(a + b + ) was the most common among the study population. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the significance of identifying the frequency of JK antigens and phenotypes in the provinces of Saudi Arabia.

MPR and NLR as Prognostic Markers in ICU-Admitted Patients with COVID-19 in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

OBJECTIVE: The aims of the current study were to evaluate the importance of MPR and NLR as prognostic markers in ICU-admitted COVID-19 patients and to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on hematological and coagulation parameters in patients from Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This retrospective study was conducted between October 2020 and January 2021 at King Fahad Central Hospital, Jazan region. Medical files, which included the results of complete blood count (CBC), calculated mean platelet volume to platelet count ratio (MPR) and neutrophils-to-lymphocytes ratio (NLR) parameters, coagulation profile and D-dimer test, of 96 (64 male and 32 female) COVID-19-infected patients admitted to the intensive care unit were reviewed. Associations between the test results and COVID-19 infection outcomes (discharged [DC] or passed away [PA]) were measured. RESULTS: The results of the current study demonstrate overall significant differences in CBC parameters between PA group as compared to DC group (P < 0.05). The PA group had a significantly elevated MPR (10.15±12.16 vs 4.04±1.5; P < 0.01) and NLR (18.29±19.82 vs 7.35±9.68; P < 0.01) as compared to the DC group, suggesting an association between these parameters and mortality. Odds ratios analysis also showed that adjustment for demographic variables and comorbidities did not weaken the observed association. CONCLUSION: Elevated MPR and NLR are associated with poor prognosis in COVID-19 patients and could be useful as therapy management indicators.

Age- and Gender-Independent Association of XRCC1 Arg399Gln Polymorphism with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia.

PURPOSE: DNA damage to hematopoietic progenitor cells is an essential factor for leukemia development as a failure of the host DNA repair system to fix errors in DNA. This study aimed to assess the association of XRCC1 gene polymorphisms including Arg194Trp, Arg399Gln, and Arg280His with the risk of development of CML in Sudanese population. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The present study was conducted on 186 newly diagnosed patients with CML, aged 19-70 years (118 males and 68 females; mean age of 46.15±13.91 years) and 186 normal healthy controls (123 males and 63 females; mean age of 44.94±8.97 years). Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay was utilized to analyze the XRCC1 (Arg194Trp, Arg399Gln, and Arg280His) gene polymorphisms. RESULTS: The genotypic frequencies of Arg399Gln polymorphism in cases were 131 (70.4%) homozygous Arg/Arg, 46 (24.7%) homozygous Gln/Gln, and 9 (4.8%) heterozygous Arg/Gln as compared to the controls ie, 153 (82.3%), 73 (14.5%), and 6 (3.2%), respectively. The Arg399Gln variant genotypic frequencies significantly differed between the cases and controls (χ 2 = 7.249, P = 0.027). By comparison, no statistically significant difference was observed in the variant genotype frequencies between the cases and controls in terms of Arg194Trp and Arg280His polymorphisms. CONCLUSION: XRCC1 Arg399Gln gene polymorphism might have an important role in increasing the risk of chronic myeloid leukemia among Sudanese patients. Furthermore, all tested three polymorphisms showed no association of risk of the development of CML with age and gender.

Prevalence of ß-S Globin Haplotypes in Jazan Region of Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a common hematological genetic disorder in Saudi Arabia, Africa, the Mediterranean region, and India. The present study aimed to characterize ßS haplotypes found in the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: One hundred sickle cell trait (SCT) individuals, diagnosed during their visit to the premarital screening clinic at King Fahad Central Hospital, were included in the study. Molecular analysis was carried out by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and six polymorphic sites of the ß-globin gene were analyzed using restriction endonucleases Hind II, Xmn-I, Hind III, and Ava II. RESULTS: The results of the current study revealed the presence of five typical haplotypes in which Benin, Bantu, and Senegal were found in homozygous state with 29%, 3% and 1% frequencies, respectively. Interestingly, 29% of the studied population showed atypical haplotypes in heterozygous state and 2% in homozygous state for the first time in Jazan region. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to the typical haplotypes, high frequency of atypical haplotypes in this study indicates a diverse genetic mechanism that might have a crucial effect on the severity of SCD in this region. Therefore, considering this study in a cohort population with SCD in Jazan region may provide more indepth details about the correlation between haplotypes and the clinical manifestation of the disease.