Coenzyme Q10 improves the quality and in vitro fertility of post-thawed buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) semen via its antioxidative effect.

This study aimed to determine the effects of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in the freezing medium on functional and oxidative stress parameters and in vitro fertilization (IVF) rate of buffalo sperm. Collected samples were relocated to the laboratory for initial evaluation, gentle dilution in extenders, cooling (4°C, 2 h), equilibration (4°C, 4 h), packaging (straws, 0.5 mL), programmable freezing, and thawing (37°C, 30 s). Statistical analysis depicted that adding CoQ10 (100 µM) in a freezing medium caused a significant augmentation in total motility (%), average path, and straight-line velocities (µm/sec) of buffalo sperm than control. Adding CoQ10 (100 µM) improved sperm progressive motility, rapid velocity, and functional parameters (%) compared to the control and 10 µM of CoQ10. Moreover, CoQ10 in a freezing medium caused a significant augmentation in seminal plasma catalase (U/mL) and glutathione reductase (GSH; nmol/109 ) at 100 µM than control and other treatments. CoQ10 inclusion (100 µM) ameliorates seminal plasma superoxide dismutase (U/mL), glutathione-S-transferase (GST; nmol/mL/min) fructose (µg/mL), and ATP (nmol/million) than control. Furthermore, CoQ10 at 100 µM improved seminal plasma glutathione peroxidase (µM) levels than control, 10 µM, and 20 µM. Lastly, hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2; nM) production was significantly lower at 100 µM than at control and 10 µM. CoQ10 (100 µM) caused a significant augmentation in the un-capacitated pattern followed by a reduction in the capacitated pattern, and apoptosis-like changes (%) than control, and other treatments, whereas viability was increased than control and other treatments. CoQ10 (100 µM) significantly improved the IVF rate in comparison with control, CoQ10 at 10 µM, and 20 µM groups. In conclusion, the addition of CoQ10 (100 µM) in the freezing medium can improve the quality and in vitro fertility of post-thawed buffalo semen via its antioxidative effect. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effect of CoQ10 on the in vivo fertility of buffalo bull semen.

The Typical Patterns of Lymphomas in Northwestern Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Lymphoma is one of the leading cancers in Saudi Arabia. Because there is a paucity of data about the prevalence of lymphomas in Saudi Arabia, numerous extensive investigations are still required. Thus, the present study aimed to assess the common patterns of lymphomas in Northwestern Saudi Arabia. METHODS: This is a retrospective study conducted at the Histopathology Departments of King Khalid and King Salman Hospitals in Hail city, Saudi Arabia, between 2008-2020. The present study comprised 134 lymphoma patients, and all data referring to these patients, such as gender, age, lymphoma type, grade, and cancer site, were retrieved. RESULTS: The most common lymphoma type was NHL, followed by HL, constituting 32.8% and 20%, respectively. There was a clear difference between male and female patients of HL type where the male was higher than the female (24% versus 15.3%). The risk of HL associated with male gender, the relative risk (RR) CI (95% Confidence interval) = 2.0077 (0.9447 - 4.2667), p = 0.0700, z statistic = 1.812. CONCLUSIONS: Lymphoma is prevalent in the Hail region with an exceptionally everincreasing incidence of HL. Wide-ranging lymphoma varieties have been explored in the Hail region, denoting large groups of unattributable etiologic modifiable risk factors.

Eriodictyol attenuates Furan induced testicular toxicity in Rats: Role of oxidative stress, steroidogenic enzymes and apoptosis.

Furan (C4H4O) is a naturally occurring organic compound. It develops as a result of the thermal processing of food and stimulates critical impairments in male reproductive tract. Eriodictyol (Etyol) is a natural dietary flavonoid possessing diverse pharmacological potentials. The recent investigation was proposed to ascertain the ameliorative potential of eriodictyol against furan-instigated reproductive dysfunctions. Male rats (n = 48) were classified into 4 groups: untreated/control, furan (10 mg/kg), furan+ eriodictyol (10 mg/kg + 20 mg/kg) and eriodictyol (20 mg/kg). At the 56th day of the trial, the protective effects of eriodictyol were evaluated by assessing various parameters. Results of the study revealed that eriodictyol attenuated furan-induced testicular toxicity in the biochemical profile by increasing catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) along with glutathione reductase (GSR) activities, whereas reduced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) along with malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. It also restored the normal state of sperm motility, viability, the count of hypo-osmotic tail swelled sperm as well as epididymal sperm number along with reduced sperm anomalies (morphological) tail, mid-piece and head. Furthermore, it elevated the decreased levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), plasma testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) as well steroidogenic enzymes (17ß-HSD, StAR protein & 3ß-HSD) and testicular anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2) expression, whereas, down-regulating apoptotic markers (Bax & Caspase-3) expression. Eriodictyol treatment also effectively mitigated the histopathological damages. The outcomes of the current study provide fundamental insights into the ameliorative potential of eriodictyol against furan-instigated testicular toxicity.

An Update on the Therapeutic Anticancer Potential of Ocimum sanctum L.: "Elixir of Life".

In most cases, cancer develops due to abnormal cell growth and subsequent tumour formation. Due to significant constraints with current treatments, natural compounds are being explored as potential alternatives. There are now around 30 natural compounds under clinical trials for the treatment of cancer. Tulsi, or Holy Basil, of the genus Ocimum, is one of the most widely available and cost-effective medicinal plants. In India, the tulsi plant has deep religious and medicinal significance. Tulsi essential oil contains a valuable source of bioactive compounds, such as camphor, eucalyptol, eugenol, alpha-bisabolene, beta-bisabolene, and beta-caryophyllene. These compounds are proposed to be responsible for the antimicrobial properties of the leaf extracts. The anticancer effects of tulsi (Ocimum sanctum L.) have earned it the title of "queen of herbs" and "Elixir of Life" in Ayurvedic treatment. Tulsi leaves, which have high concentrations of eugenol, have been shown to have anticancer properties. In a various cancers, eugenol exerts its antitumour effects through a number of different mechanisms. In light of this, the current review focuses on the anticancer benefits of tulsi and its primary phytoconstituent, eugenol, as apotential therapeutic agent against a wide range of cancer types. In recent years, tulsi has gained popularity due to its anticancer properties. In ongoing clinical trials, a number of tulsi plant compounds are being evaluated for their potential anticancer effects. This article discusses anticancer, chemopreventive, and antioxidant effects of tulsi.

Design, Synthesis, In Silico and POM Studies for the Identification of the Pharmacophore Sites of Benzylidene Derivatives.

Due to the uneven distribution of glycosidase enzyme expression across bacteria and fungi, glycoside derivatives of antimicrobial compounds provide prospective and promising antimicrobial materials. Therefore, herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of six novel methyl 4,6-O-benzylidene-α-d-glucopyranoside (MBG) derivatives (2-7). The structures were ascertained using spectroscopic techniques and elemental analyses. Antimicrobial tests (zone of inhibition, MIC and MBC) were carried out to determine their ability to inhibit the growth of different Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. The highest antibacterial activity was recorded with compounds 4, 5, 6 and 7. The compounds with the most significant antifungal efficacy were 4, 5, 6 and 7. Based on the prediction of activity spectra for substances (PASS), compounds 4 and 7 have promising antimicrobial capacity. Molecular docking studies focused on fungal and bacterial proteins where derivatives 3 and 6 exhibited strong binding affinities. The molecular dynamics study revealed that the complexes formed by these derivatives with the proteins L,D-transpeptidase Ykud and endoglucanase from Aspergillus niger remained stable, both over time and in physiological conditions. Structure-activity relationships, including in vitro and in silico results, revealed that the acyl chains [lauroyl-(CH3(CH2)10CO-), cinnamoyl-(C6H5CH=CHCO-)], in combination with sugar, were found to have the most potential against human and fungal pathogens. Synthetic, antimicrobial and pharmacokinetic studies revealed that MBG derivatives have good potential for antimicrobial activity, developing a therapeutic target for bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, the Petra/Osiris/Molinspiration (POM) study clearly indicated the presence of an important (O1δ-----O2δ-) antifungal pharmacophore site. This site can also be explored as a potential antiviral moiety.

The ameliorating effects of crocetin on frozen-thawed quality, and fertility via attenuating oxidative status of bubaline spermatozoa.

Current study was conducted to appraise the cryoprotective influence of crocetin on quality, oxidative status, and fertility potential of bubaline spermatozoa. Collected semen from four bulls was diluted in five aliquots with (10 µM, 5 µM, 2 µM, 1 µM, and control [0 µM] supplementation of crocetin). After gentle dilution (37 °C), cooling (4 °C, in 2 h), equilibration (4 °C, for 4 h) and packaging of samples was done in straws (polyvinyl French, 0.5 ml), and then frozen (programmable cell freezer). This study established that crocetin supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) improves CASA (Computer Assisted Sperm motion Analyzer) total motility (%), rapid velocity (%), average-path, and curved-line velocities (µm/sec, 10 µM vs. control), and progressive motility (%), straight-line velocity (µm/sec), total antioxidant capacity (TAC, µMol/l), ATP concentrations (nmol/million), and fertility potential (%) (10 µM vs. control, and 1 µM), and mitochondrial potential (%) of buffalo spermatozoa (5, and 10 µM vs. control). Crocetin supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) alleviates DNA fragmentation, seminal plasma ROS (104 RLU/20/25 million, RLU = Relative light unit) levels, and lipid peroxidation (LPO, µMol/ml) in buffalo spermatozoa (10 µM vs. control). In a nutshell, crocetin supplementation improves post-thaw quality by means of motility parameters, motion kinematics, TAC, and ATP concentrations, and fertility potential, and abolished DNA fragmentation parameters, seminal plasma ROS, and LPO concentrations of buffalo spermatozoa. The exact mechanism by which crocetin acts are not fully elucidated; however, it is probable to speculate that the reduction in ROS, and LPO recorded in this study may be related to scavenging ability of this antioxidant during cryopreservation.

Validation of double freezing protocol for Beetal buck (Capra hircus) spermatozoa.

The study aimed to validate the double versus single freezing protocol for Beetal buck (Capra hircus) spermatozoa in tris-citric acid (TCA) based extender both in terms of quality and fertilization potential. Computer-assisted sperm motion and kinematic (CASA) variables, i.e. total (%), and progressive motilities (TM and PM, %) and rapid velocity (RV, %), average path (VAP, µm/s), straight line (VSL, µm/s) and curved line velocities (VCL, µm/s), straightness, (VSL/VAP, %) and linearity, (VSL/VCL, %) as well as supra-vital plasma membrane integrity (SV-PMI, %), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP, %), viable/intact acrosome (V-IACR, %) and DNA integrity (DNA-I, %) had significantly greater values (p < .05) during single freeze-thawing as compared with the double freeze-thawing at 0, 30, 90, 150 and 210 days, respectively. All CASA and other assays alone did not show significant differences (p > .05) between both freeze-thaw cycles at all treatment durations, respectively. No statistical significance (p > .05) was observed for the in vivo fertility between single (n = 84/141 = 59.72%) and double freeze-thawing (n = 72/136 = 52.9%) cycles, respectively. In conclusion, sperm motion, kinematics, plasma membrane, acrosome, mitochondria and DNA integrities and in vivo fertility are acceptable after the double freezing protocol despite being lower than after one freeze cycle in Beetal buck.

Chemoprotective effect of vitexin against cisplatin-induced biochemical, spermatological, steroidogenic, hormonal, apoptotic and histopathological damages in the testes of Sprague-Dawley rats.

Cisplatin (CP) is one of the most widely used antineoplastic drugs, which possesses the potential to treat a variety of malignancies. However, it displays numerous side effects as well. Male reproductive dysfunction is one of the most adverse side effects of CP. Vitexin is a naturally occurring flavonoid, which exhibits remarkable antioxidant properties. Present study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of vitexin on CP-induced damages on testes. 48 Sprague-Dawley rats were equally distributed into 4 groups: control, cisplatin (CP), cisplatin + vitexin (CP + VIT) and vitexin (VIT). After 14 days of treatment, evaluation of biochemical, spermatogenic, steroidogenical, hormonal, apoptotic and histopathological parameters was carried out. CP damaged the biochemical profile by reducing activity of CAT, SOD, GPx and GSR, while level of MDA and ROS was increased. It also decreased sperm motility, viability, number of hypo-osmotic tail swelled spermatozoa and epididymal sperm count, besides increasing the sperm morphological anomalies. Moreover, levels of LH, FSH and plasma testosterone were reduced. CP reduced the gene expression of testicular anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2) and steroidogenic enzymes (3ß-HSD, 17ß-HSD and StAR), but upregulated the gene expressions of apoptotic markers (Bax and Caspase-3). Besides, CP led to histopathological damages in testicular tissues. However, vitexin reversed all aforementioned damages in testes. Therefore, it is concluded that vitexin could play an effective role as a therapeutic agent against CP-prompted testicular toxicity due to its antioxidant, anti-apoptotic and androgenic potential.

Screening for PIK3CA mutations among Saudi women with ovarian cancer.

The study aimed to screen for PIK3CA gene mutations among Saudi women with Ovarian Cancer. The study included 298 Saudi women with epithelial ovarian cancers (EOC). DNA sequence analysis was employed to screen for the mutations. DNA sequence analysis of a coding region of exon 9 and 20 of PIK3CA gene revealed mutations in 37/298 (12.4%) EOC patients. About 21/37(56.8%) somatic mutations were identified in exons 9, and 16/37(43.2%) in exon 20. All analysed mutations were missense mutations, the frequencies of which varied from 2.7% to 43.2%. PIK3CA mutation was found to be significantly associated with age (p = .023), grade (p = .001) and histological types (p = .032). Only 6.6% of serous carcinomas and 3.8% of endometrioid had PIK3CA mutation. The Mutated PIK3CA gene was significantly involved in the pathogenesis of EOC among Saudi women. PIK3CA gene mutation and overexpression represent important clinical implications for diagnosis, and prognosis, which can be utilised for better EOC management.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? The detailed molecular and genetic phenomenon underlying the progression of these tumours is still unclear. Recently, the pathogenesis of ovarian cancer has been attributed to mutations of PIK3CA.What do the results of this study add? Mutation in the PIK3CA gene leads to altered PI3K/AKT signalling pathways responsible for the progression of the epithelial ovarian cancer.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? The Mutated PIK3CA gene was significantly involved in the pathogenesis of EOC among Saudi women. PIK3CA gene mutation and overexpression represent important clinical implications for diagnosis, and prognosis, which can be utilised for better EOC management.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) addition as an antioxidant in a cryo-diluent media improves microscopic parameters, and fertility potential, and alleviates oxidative stress parameters of buffalo spermatozoa.

The disparity between the endogenous antioxidants concentration and free radicals in spermatozoa results in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In this prospect, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) preserves vigorous antioxidant features. Current study explored the influence of EGCG in a cryo-diluent media on microscopic parameters, oxidative stress parameters, and fertility potential of buffalo spermatozoa during cryopreservation. Concisely, collected semen from three donor bulls for four times were then evaluated for volume, motility, concentrations and then dilution in a cryo-diluent media with different concentrations of EGCG (EGCG-0 = control; EGCG-50 = 50 µM, EGCG-100 = 100 µM, EGCG-200 = 200 µM, and EGCG-300 = 300 µM) at 37 °C, cooled to 4 °C in 2 h, equilibrated for 4 h at 4 °C, and cryopreserved. At post-thawing, Computer-Assisted Sperm motion Analysis motilities (total and progressive, %) and rapid velocity (%), plasma membrane functionality, supravital plasma membrane integrity, and mitochondrial potential (%) were found higher (P < 0.05) in EGCG-200, and EGCG-300 than control, whereas average-path, straight-line, and curved-linear velocities (µm/sec), and acrosome integrity (%) were recorded higher in EGCG-300 than control. Further, comet length (µm), and tail length (µm), LPO (lipid peroxidation, µM/mL), and apoptosis-like changes (%) in spermatozoa were significantly decreased in EGCG-300 than control. Seminal plasma antioxidant enzymes activities (glutathione peroxidase, U/mL, and superoxide dismutase, U/mL) were increased with EGCG-300 than control. Moreover, EGCG-300 addition in a cryo-diluent media improves the fertility potential (%) of buffalo spermatozoa. In a nutshell, the inclusion of EGCG-300 in a cryo-diluent media enhances post-thaw microscopic parameters, and fertility potential, whereas decreases oxidative stress parameters in buffalo spermatozoa.

Supplementation of l-tryptophan (an aromatic amino acid) in tris citric acid extender enhances post-thaw progressive motility, plasmalemma, mitochondrial membrane potential, acrosome, and DNA integrities, and in vivo fertility rate of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) bull spermatozoa.

The aromatic amino acid l-tryptophan is an essential and versatile molecule, acts by transferring an electron to free radicals and protects the plasma membrane from injuries. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of l-tryptophan in extender on semen quality parameters, in vitro longevity and in vivo fertility rate of buffalo spermatozoa during cryopreservation. Two ejaculates were collected from each bull (n = 2 ejaculates and n = 4 bulls) with artificial vagina at 42 °C followed by initial evaluation for volume, motility, concentrations and were diluted in five extenders (C = lacking l-tryptophan, D1 = 25 µ M l-tryptophan, D2 = 50 µ M l-tryptophan, D3 = 75 µ M l-tryptophan, and D4 = 100 µ M l-tryptophan) respectively, and cryopreserved. The experiment was repeated four times (n = 4 replicates). At post-dilution, sperm plasma membrane integrity (PMI, %), supravital plasma membrane integrity (SVPMI, %), hypo-resistivity (HR, %) and acrosome integrity (ACR-I, %) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in extender supplemented with D4 than control. At post-thawing, progressive motility (PM, %), PMI, SVPMI, HR, ACR-I, and DNA-I of buffalo bull spermatozoa were significantly higher in D4 than control. Sperm in vitro longevity (%) assessed in terms of PM, SVPMI, and ACR-1 were significantly higher in D4 than control. Sperm mitochondrial membrane potential (%) was higher in treated groups than the control. The in vivo fertility rate was significantly higher in D4 than control (60.17% vs. 44.17%, P < 0.05). It is concluded that the supplementation of l-tryptophan in tris citric acid extender improves semen quality parameters, in vitro longevity and in vivo fertility rate of buffalo spermatozoa during freezing and thawing process.

Epidemiologic Pattern and Types of Oral Smokeless Tobacco Usage in Saudi Arabia.

Aim: Smokeless tobacco (ST) use is a significant health risk and cause of disease. Most studies conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) focused on cigarette smoking. Therefore, the objective was to study the epidemiologic pattern and types of oral ST usage in northern and western Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods: A total of 428 volunteers living in three cities (Hail, Mecca, and Tabuk) were investigated. All of the study subjects were currently ST users of one type or more, including toombak, shammah, pan masala (PM), Afdhal, Nashooq, and others. Results: Most of the study population were found to use toombak representing 127/428 (29.7%), followed by shammah, PM, Afdhal, Nashooq, Adani, Qat, Majun, and others, representing 67/428 (15.7%), 66/428 (15.4%), 44/428 (10.3%), 36/428 (8.4%), 32/428 (7.5%), 23/428 (5.4%), 22/428 (5.1%), 21/428 (4.9%), and 13/428 (3%) respectively. Conclusion: This survey showed a high prevalence of existing ST usage among foreign workers and Saudis, which can establish a prospective public health problem. Clinical significance: Smokeless tobacco cessation is a crucial element of tobacco control policy since it is the most important determinant of many diseases, including oral cancer. Keywords: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Oral cancer, Pan masala, Shammah, Smokeless tobacco, Toombak.

Knowledge levels of stroke among hypertensive and diabetic patients in a tertiary hospital.

BACKGROUND: Strokes represent a major global health challenge, as they now affect up to 15 million people annually, with increasing mortality rates accompanying growing prevalence. In Saudi Arabia, hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) have been identified as major contributors to stroke risk, with a combination of HTN and DM significantly magnifying the risk of strokes. While there have been global improvements in stroke prevention, recently knowledge levels vary significantly worldwide, and multiple studies in Saudi Arabia show inconsistent awareness levels. OBJECTIVES: This study seeks to develop insights for the development of tailored prevention programs that align with Saudi Vision 2030 in terms of enhancing quality of life. Thus, the aim of the study is to assess knowledge levels of stroke risk factors, warning signs, symptoms, and prevention methods among high-risk groups (HTN and DM patients) at King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC). METHODS: This was an analytical cross-sectional study conducted among 422 participants from June 2022 to January 2023, using a validated Arabic questionnaire taken, with permission, from previous studies. All HTN and T2DM patients in the waiting areas of the outpatient clinics at KSUMC, Riyadh were included as part of the random sampling, though patients below 20-years-old and those with other endocrine disorders were then excluded. RESULTS: The majority of participants were male (64.5 %). The analysis showed that 66.1 % of participants had "poor total knowledge" of stroke factors. Half of the participants (50.5 %) had "poor knowledge" about stroke risk factors, though the most commonly identified risk factor was "hypertension". Additionally, the findings showed that 46.4 % of participants had "poor knowledge" of stroke warning signs and symptoms, with the most commonly identified warning sign being "difficulty in speaking." Nearly half of participants (46.4 %) had "good knowledge" of stroke prevention methods; however, "regular exercise" was the most commonly identified prevention method. CONCLUSION: Although the participants displayed decent knowledge of stroke prevention methods, several notable deficits in overall knowledge of stroke factors emerged. In particular, knowledge of stroke risk factors and warning signs and symptoms among participants was inadequate. This implies that healthcare providers should seek to launch campaigns addressing stroke knowledge mainly among high-risk groups, potentially distributing brochures about stroke knowledge in the relevant clinics and seeking to provide a range of educational content by means of social media.

Diabetes-related social stigma among university students in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

Diabetes-related stigma encompasses stereotypes, discrimination, and blame, significantly influencing diabetes management and overall well-being. Despite high diabetes-related stigma prevalence in various contexts, there is limited research in Saudi Arabia, especially that perceived/enacted by non-diabetics, the so-called social stigma. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess diabetes-related social stigma (DRSS) and to identify correlates among university students in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. A convenience sampling was employed to collect responses from 536 Jazan University students using an online questionnaire. After excluding participants with diabetes mellitus (n = 17), data from 519 individuals were analyzed. The DRSS questionnaire comprised 2 scales: social distancing and negative attitudes and stereotyping. The study found mixed results regarding the student population's attitude toward diabetic patients. Most students displayed favorable answers on social distancing scale statements, with the majority of statements showing willingness to engage in different social aspects with diabetics getting a positive response from at least 96% of respondents. The study identified various types of negative attitudes and stereotyping, for example, 46% of the sample agreed that dealing with a diabetic is upsetting or tiring. Correlates of social distancing included academic year, rural residence, and nonmedical field of specialty, while predictors of negative attitude and stereotyping included female gender and higher family income. The findings indicate a need to improve attitudes related to diabetics among university students in Saudi Arabia, with a particular focus on negative attitude stereotyping. Raising awareness about DRSS, especially among future healthcare professionals, is essential. Further refinement of the DRSS measurement scales is recommended through broader testing among the general population to enhance our understanding of this important issue.

Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Infections in Pediatric Patients Hospitalized at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Western Saudi Arabia.

Multidrug-resistant bacterial infections (MDRIs) constitute a major global threat due to increased patient morbidity/mortality and hospital stay/healthcare costs. A few studies from KSA, including our locality, addressed antimicrobial resistance in pediatric patients. This study was performed to recognize the incidence and clinical/microbiologic features of MDRIs in hospitalized pediatric patients. A retrospective cross-sectional study included pediatric patients < 18 years, admitted to King Abdulaziz University Hospital, between October 2021 and November 2022, with confirmed positive cultures of bacteria isolated from blood/body fluids. Patients' medical files provided the required data. MDR organisms (MDROs) were identified in 12.8% of the total cultures. The incidence of MDRIs was relatively high, as it was detected in 42% of patients and in 54.3% of positive bacterial cultures especially among critically ill patients admitted to the NICU and PICU. Pneumonia/ventilator-associated pneumonia was the main type of infection in 37.8% of patients with MDROs. Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common significantly isolated MDRO in 39.5% of MDR cultures. Interestingly, a low weight for (no need for their as terminology weight for age is standard and well-known) was the only significant risk factor associated with MDROs (p = 0.02). Mortality was significantly higher (p = 0.001) in patients with MDROs (32.4%) than in patients without MDROs (3.9%). Patients who died including 85.7% of patients with MDROs had significantly longer durations of admission, more cultures, and utilized a larger number of antibiotics than the surviving patients (p = 0.02, p = 0.01, p = 0.04, respectively). This study provided a comprehensive update on the seriously alarming problem of MDROs, and its impacts on pediatric patients. The detected findings are crucial and are a helpful guide to decid for implementing effective strategies to mitigate MDROs.

Sulforaphane inclusion in a freezing medium augments post-thaw motility, functional and biochemical features, and fertility potential of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) spermatozoa.

Sulforaphane is a natural and highly effective antioxidant safeguarding the reproductive system, and alleviate oxidative stress. This study was designed in order to elaborate L-sulforaphane effect on semen quality, biochemical parameters, and fertility of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) spermatozoa. Semen was collected from five buffalo bull with artificial vagina (42 °C) three times and evaluated for volume, consistency (color), motility, and sperm concentration. After critical examination, semen was diluted (50 × 106 spermatozoa per ml, 37 °C) in extenders with (2 µM, 5 µM, 10 µM, and, 20 µM) or without (control) sulforaphane, cooled (from 37 to 4 °C), equilibrated (4 °C), filled (straws, 4 °C), and cryopreserved (LN2, -196 °C). Data analysis exhibited that sulforaphane addition in extender augments total motility (%, 10 µM, and 20 µM than control), progressive motility (%), and rapid velocity (%, 20 µM than control), and velocity parameters (average path velocity, µm/s, straight line velocity, µm/s and curved linear velocity, µm/s, 20 µM than control, and 2 µM). Moreover, sulforaphane augments functional features (membrane functionality, mitochondrial potential, and acrosome integrity) of buffalo sperm (20 µM than control). Sulforaphane preserves biochemical features of seminal plasma of buffalo i.e., Calcium (µM), and total antioxidant capacity (µM/L), followed by reduction in lactate dehydrogenase (IU/L), reactive oxygen species (104 RLU/20 min/ 25 million), and lipid peroxidation (µM/ml) in 20 µM than control. Lastly, sulforaphane augments fertility rate of buffalo sperm at 20 µM than control, and 2 µM. Conclusively the existing study revealed that adding L-sulforaphane (20 µM) in a freezing medium augments motilities, kinematics, functional parameters, and fertility rate of buffalo spermatozoa. Correspondingly, sperm favorable biochemical features were also augmented with sulforaphane followed by reduction in oxidative stress parameters. Further studies are highly recommended to define the particular mechanism of action of sulforaphane in augmenting buffalo post-thawed semen quality, and in vitro fertility potential.

Prevalence of antibiotic misuse in cases of pneumonia and diarrhea in Saudi Arabia.

Background: Antibiotic misuse is a major public health issue with long-term repercussions. Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effects of pneumonia and diarrhea, with an emphasis on antibiotic misuse. Methodology: This study included 410 participants (217 fathers and 193 mothers), of whom 239 purchased antibiotics for their children without a prescription, whereas 171 had a prescription or were unsure if one was required. Results: Antibiotics were used incorrectly by 58.1% of respondents. About 51.2% of participants said they were taking two antibiotics at the same time. Around 30% of people admitted to using antibiotics inefficiently. The most prevalent reason for use was "viral and bacterial," followed by "viral," and then "bacterial," with 35%, 21%, and 20%, respectively. In addition, 22.4% of patients have used antibiotics for an unknown reason. Conclusion: Saudi parents of children with pneumonia and diarrhea abuse antibiotics. Saudi legislation banning medications without a prescription has helped reduce antibiotic abuse, but more community-based education and awareness are needed.

Nanocomposite Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reactions (HERs) for Sustainable and Efficient Hydrogen Energy-Future Prospects.

Hydrogen is considered a good clean and renewable energy substitute for fossil fuels. The major obstacle facing hydrogen energy is its efficacy in meeting its commercial-scale demand. One of the most promising pathways for efficient hydrogen production is through water-splitting electrolysis. This requires the development of active, stable, and low-cost catalysts or electrocatalysts to achieve optimized electrocatalytic hydrogen production from water splitting. The objective of this review is to survey the activity, stability, and efficiency of various electrocatalysts involved in water splitting. The status quo of noble-metal- and non-noble-metal-based nano-electrocatalysts has been specifically discussed. Various composites and nanocomposite electrocatalysts that have significantly impacted electrocatalytic HERs have been discussed. New strategies and insights in exploring nanocomposite-based electrocatalysts and utilizing other new age nanomaterial options that will profoundly enhance the electrocatalytic activity and stability of HERs have been highlighted. Recommendations on future directions and deliberations for extrapolating information have been projected.

Relaxin (a regulatory-peptide) enhances cryotolerance, fertility potential and plasma reproductive hormones of Nili Ravi buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) during low breeding season.

This study investigated the beneficial effects of relaxin on cryotolerance of buffalo spermatozoa and reproductive hormones during low breeding season. Collected semen was diluted in five aliquots with relaxin addition (0.25 mg/mL, 0.50 mg/mL, 0.75 mg/mL, 1 mg/mL, and control). After gentle dilution (37°C), cooling (4°C, 2 h), equilibration (4°C, 4 h), and packaging (straws, polyvinyl French, 0.5 mL), frozen (cell freezer), and thawed (37°C, 30 s) for analysis. Blood samples were collected at different time intervals i.e., -60, -30 and 0 min (pre-dose) and 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 min (post-dose) from a jugular vein. This study manifest that adding relaxin (1 mg/ mL) in freezing medium ameliorates sperm motility, functionality (%), and seminal plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC, µM/L) than control during low breeding season. Furthermore, we found that relaxin supplementation at 1 mg/mL significantly improves seminal plasma ATP concentrations (nmol/million) than control, 0.25 mg/mL, and 0.50 mg/mL, and fertility (control, and 0.75 mg/mL). Further, relaxin injection significantly improves plasma T, LH and IGF-1 levels (150 and 120 min vs. -60, and - 30), and FSH, KP, and GnRH concentrations (150 min vs. -60), during low breeding season. Taken together, this study revealed that relaxin ameliorates motility, functionality, and fertility of buffalo spermatozoa. Moreover, relaxin injection (1 mg/mL) improves essential reproductive hormones levels in buffalo signifying its importance in the field of reproductive physiology. Further studies are required to determine the exact mechanism of action of relaxin in enhancing semen quality, fertility and reproductive hormones.

Therapeutic effect of gossypetin against paraquat-induced testicular damage in male rats: a histological and biochemical study.

Paraquat (PQ) is an organic compound, which is commonly used as a herbicide in the agriculture sector, and it is also known to stimulate critical damages in the male reproductive system. Gossypetin (GPTN) is one of important members of the flavonoid family, which is an essential compound in flowers and calyx of Hibiscus sabdariffa with potential pharmacological properties. The current investigation was aimed to examine the ameliorative potential of GPTN against PQ-instigated testicular damages. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 48) were distributed into four groups: control, PQ (5 mg/kg), PQ + GPTN (5 mg/kg + 30 mg/kg respectively), and GPTN (30 mg/kg). After 56 days of treatment, biochemical, spermatogenic indices, hormonal, steroidogenic, pro-or-anti-apoptotic, and histopathological parameters were estimated. PQ exposure disturbed the biochemical profile by reducing the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GSR), while it increased the concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Furthermore, PQ exposure decreased the sperm motility, viability, number of hypo-osmotic tail swelled spermatozoa, and epididymal sperm count; additionally, it increased sperm morphological (head mid-piece and tail) abnormalities. Moreover, PQ lessened the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and plasma testosterone levels. Besides, PQ-intoxication downregulated the gene expression of steroidogenic enzymes (StAR, 3ß-HSD, and 17ß-HSD) and anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2), whereas upregulated the gene expression of apoptotic markers (Bax and Caspase-3). PQ exposure led to histopathological damages in testicular tissues as well. Nonetheless, GPTN inverted all the illustrated impairments in testes. Taken together, GPTN could potently ameliorate PQ-induced reproductive dysfunctions due to its antioxidant, androgenic, and anti-apoptotic potential.