Factors associated with applicant performance on the Saudi Pharmacist Licensure Examination (SPLE).

Background: Limited data are available on factors that are associated with passing rates for the Saudi Pharmacist Licensure Examination (SPLE). The aim of this study is to investigate student characteristics and academic performance characteristics that may predict their success on SPLE. Methods: This was a single-institution retrospective cohort study, which included pharmacy graduates from 2019 to 2021. Demographic, academic, and SPLE data were collected for each graduate. Binary logistic regression was used to explore the association between potential predictors and first-time SPLE pass status. A stepwise regression was then performed to develop multiple logistic models. Results: A total of 494 graduates were included in the study. Females, PharmD graduates, and on-time graduation had higher odds of passing SPLE (P = 0.0065, P = 0.0003, and P < 0.0001, respectively). For each 0.5 increase in GPA, the odds of passing SPLE increase by 3.5 times (OR 3.53; 95 % CI, 2.83-4.42; P < 0.0001). Of the tests taken prior to university admission, the overall high school score, general aptitude test (GAT) score, and qualifying score were significantly associated with higher SPLE first-time pass rates. When multiple logistic regression analysis was performed, GPA and GAT scores were the only significant predictors for higher SPLE first-time pass rates (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0002, respectively). Conclusion: The current research has shown that there is an association between higher SPLE first-time pass rates and several factors, most importantly the GPA and GAT score. Further research is needed, as it has the potential to inform the decision when reviewing pharmacy admission criteria.

Pharmacological and Clinical Efficacy of Picrorhiza kurroa and Its Secondary Metabolites: A Comprehensive Review.

Traditional remedies for the treatment of various ailments are gaining popularity. Traditionally, one of the most valuable therapeutic herbs has been Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth. Traditional and folk uses of P. kurroa include chronic constipation, skin-related problems, burning sensation, chronic reoccurring fever, jaundice, heart problems, breathing, digestion, allergy, tuberculosis, blood-related problems, prediabetes and obesity, laxative, cholagogue, and liver stimulatory. Phytoconstituents such as glycosides, alkaloids, cucurbitacins, iridoids, phenolics, and terpenes in P. kurroa have shown promising pharmacological potential. In order to uncover novel compounds that may cure chronic illnesses, such as cardiovascular, diabetes, cancer, respiratory, and hepatoprotective diseases, the screening of P. kurroa is essential. This study comprehensively evaluated the ethnopharmacological efficacy, phytochemistry, pharmacological activity, dose, and toxicity of P. kurroa. This review provides comprehensive insights into this traditional medication for future research and therapeutic application. The purpose of this review article was to determine the pharmacological effects of P. kurroa on a variety of disorders. P. kurroa may be a natural alternative to the standard treatment for eradicating newly evolving diseases. This study is intended as a resource for future fundamental and clinical investigations.

Assessment of knowledge and awareness of safe disposal of unused or expired medication in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

Background: Poor waste management of unused or expired medications jeopardizes healthcare staff, employees who oversee medical waste, patients and their families, the neighboring population, and environmental contamination. In addition, the inappropriate treatment or disposal of that waste leads to. In addition, medical waste disposal exerts an intolerable burden on the economy of health care facilities. Currently, there is a lack of data in community settings regarding adequate methods of medication disposal in Saudi Arabia. Aim of the Study: The current study aimed to evaluate current knowledge and awareness of the safe disposal of unused or expired medicines in the Saudi Arabia. Method: A survey study was conducted in Saudi Arabia within 5 months from October 2021-February 2022. The survey was distributed to participants via social media channels. The questionnaire was constituted of 16 items divided into three sections: demographic information, quantification, and characterization of unused and expired medication at home, and practice and attitude regarding the disposal of unused or expired medication. Results: The survey was taken by 1105 participants and 1100 (99.54%) participants completed the survey. The study found that (49.1%) of participants stored medicines at home and these medicines were mainly stored in the refrigerator (64.4%). Household trash was the most frequent method of disposal (79.5%). Non-prescribed medicines (67%) were mainly stored as unused or expiry medicines at home followed by prescribed medicines (51.9%). The main reason for the storage of unused/expired medicines at home was stopped medication after recovery (68.5%). Only 8.4% of participants had received appropriate education or training related to the correct disposal of medication. The best-practiced method to increase community awareness regarding the disposal of unused or expiry medicine was awareness through social networking (70.3%). In conclusion, patients' education regarding safe medication disposal and availability of medication disposal program is necessary to improve appropriate medication waste methods and decrease possible environmental harm.

Investigation of Antidepressant Properties of Yohimbine by Employing Structure-Based Computational Assessments.

The use of pharmaceuticals to treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) has several drawbacks, including severe side effects. Natural compounds with great efficacy and few side effects are in high demand due to the global rise in MDD and ineffective treatment. Yohimbine, a natural compound, has been used to treat various ailments, including neurological conditions, since ancient times. Serotonergic neurotransmission plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of depression; thus, serotonergic receptor agonist/antagonistic drugs are promising anti-depressants. Yohimbine was investigated in this study to determine its antidepressant activity using molecular docking and pharmacokinetic analyses. Additionally, the in silico mutational study was carried out to understand the increase in therapeutic efficiency using site-directed mutagenesis. Conformational changes and fluctuations occurring during wild type and mutant serotonergic receptor, 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors 1A (5HT1A) and yohimbine were assessed by molecular dynamics MD simulation studies. Yohimbine was found to satisfy all the parameters for drug-likeness and pharmacokinetics analysis. It was found to possess a good dock score and hydrogen-bond interactions with wild type 5HT1A structure. Our findings elaborate the substantial efficacy of yohimbine against MDD; however, further bench work studies may be carried out to prove the same.

Regulating antimicrobial sales in Saudi Arabia: Achievements and challenges.

BACKGROUND: Antimicrobials save millions of lives annually from dying because of bacterial infections, but the rapid emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) becomes a global threat. The Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH) has taken containment measures to limit the misuse of antimicrobials via implementing restrictions on dispensing without prescriptions. Hence, we aim to evaluate the impact of regulating antimicrobial sales and identify challenges that pharmacists are facing to prevent self-medication with antimicrobial agents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using two sources of data: sales reports from 3000 pharmacies in Saudi Arabia and a self-designed questionnaire. The questionnaire consists of 24 items written in English and Arabic languages, went through multiple steps to ensure validity and reliability and then distributed online. Descriptive analyses were used to present the results. RESULTS: A total of 106 pharmacists completed the questionnaire. Sixty-three per cent of the respondents observed a reduction of 40% in sales, which was consistent with pharmacies' sales reports, which revealed a 50% reduction in 2018 as compared to 2017. Seventy-six per cent of respondents agreed that antimicrobials' sales restrictions were frustrating to patients. The percentage of pharmacists who reported receiving prescriptions with complete information about patients, prescribers, medications and issue date was 70%, 54%, 86% and 77%, respectively. And 69% of respondents revealed receiving support from their employers to prevent dispensing antimicrobial agents without prescription. CONCLUSION: Restriction measures implemented by the Saudi MOH led to a 40% to 50% reduction in inappropriate sales of antimicrobials. Further studies are needed to investigate the methods for improving documentation and prescribing practices.

Computational Screening of Natural Compounds for Identification of Potential Anti-Cancer Agents Targeting MCM7 Protein.

Minichromosome maintenance complex component 7 (MCM7) is involved in replicative licensing and the synthesis of DNA, and its overexpression is a fascinating biomarker for various cancer types. There is currently no effective agent that can prevent the development of cancer caused by the MCM7 protein. However, on the molecular level, inhibiting MCM7 lowers cancer-related cellular growth. With this purpose, this study screened 452 biogenic compounds extracted from the UEFS Natural Products dataset against MCM protein by using the in silico art of technique. The hit compounds UEFS99, UEFS137, and UEFS428 showed good binding with the MCM7 protein with binding energy values of -9.95, -8.92, and -8.71 kcal/mol, which was comparatively higher than that of the control compound ciprofloxacin (-6.50). The hit (UEFS99) with the minimum binding energy was picked for molecular dynamics (MD) simulation investigation, and it demonstrated stability at 30 ns. Computational prediction of physicochemical property evaluation revealed that these hits are non-toxic and have good drug-likeness features. It is suggested that hit compounds UEFS99, UEFS137, and UEFS428 pave the way for further bench work validation in novel inhibitor development against MCM7 to fight the cancers.

Identification of 3-((1-(Benzyl(2-hydroxy-2-phenylethyl)amino)-1-oxo-3-phenylpropan-2-yl)carbamoyl)pyrazine-2-carboxylic Acid as a Potential Inhibitor of Non-Nucleosidase Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors through InSilico Ligand- and Structure-Based Approaches.

Non-nucleosidase reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) are highly promising agents for use in highly effective antiretroviral therapy. We implemented a rational approach for the identification of promising NNRTIs based on the validated ligand- and structure-based approaches. In view of our state-of-the-art techniques in drug design and discovery utilizing multiple modeling approaches, we report here, for the first time, quantitative pharmacophore modeling (HypoGen), docking, and in-house database screening approaches in the identification of potential NNRTIs. The validated pharmacophore model with three hydrophobic groups, one aromatic ring group, and a hydrogen-bond acceptor explains the interactions at the active site by the inhibitors. The model was implemented in pharmacophore-based virtual screening (in-house and commercially available databases) and molecular docking for prioritizing the potential compounds as NNRTI. The identified leads are in good corroboration with binding affinities and interactions as compared to standard ligands. The model can be utilized for designing and identifying the potential leads in the area of NNRTIs.

Identification of New Mycobacterium tuberculosis Proteasome Inhibitors Using a Knowledge-Based Computational Screening Approach.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is a deadly tuberculosis (TB)-causing pathogen. The proteasome is vital to the survival of Mtb and is therefore validated as a potential target for anti-TB therapy. Mtb resistance to existing antibacterial agents has enhanced drastically, becoming a worldwide health issue. Therefore, new potential therapeutic agents need to be developed that can overcome the complications of TB. With this purpose, in the present study, 224,205 natural compounds from the ZINC database have been screened against the catalytic site of Mtb proteasome by the computational approach. The best scoring hits, ZINC3875469, ZINC4076131, and ZINC1883067, demonstrated robust interaction with Mtb proteasome with binding energy values of -7.19, -7.95, and -7.21 kcal/mol for the monomer (K-chain) and -8.05, -9.10, and -7.07 kcal/mol for the dimer (both K and L chains) of the beta subunit, which is relatively higher than that of reference compound HT1171 (-5.83 kcal/mol (monomer) and -5.97 kcal/mol (dimer)). In-depth molecular docking of top-scoring compounds with Mtb proteasome reveals that amino acid residues Thr1, Arg19, Ser20, Thr21, Gln22, Gly23, Asn24, Lys33, Gly47, Asp124, Ala126, Trp129, and Ala180 are crucial in binding. Furthermore, a molecular dynamics study showed steady-state interaction of hit compounds with Mtb proteasome. Computational prediction of physicochemical property assessment showed that these hits are non-toxic and possess good drug-likeness properties. This study proposed that these compounds could be utilized as potential inhibitors of Mtb proteasome to combat TB infection. However, there is a need for further bench work experiments for their validation as inhibitors of Mtb proteasome.

Work readiness scale for pharmacy interns and graduates: A cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: As the number of unemployment among pharmacy graduates increases, the Saudi Ministry of Labor implemented extra measures to facilitate their training and hiring by the private sectors. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of data regarding pharmacy graduates' work readiness (WR). Hence, we aim to assess their WR and identify predicting factors associated with WR among pharmacy graduates' in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A 46-item self-reported pre-validated anonymous work readiness scale (WRS) survey with a 5-point Likert scale was administered to pharmacy senior students and graduates using Qualtrics XM® survey tool over the month of May 2020. The main outcome was to assess WRS for pharmacy interns and graduates and identify factors associated with work readiness. RESULTS: A total of 617 participants have participated in this survey, out of which 46.5% were freshly graduated pharmacists and 19.6% were pharmacy interns. Most participants (82.3%) were PharmD candidates or graduates. Around two-third of participants (63%) have successfully completed all survey items. The maximum points scored was 223 out of 230, and the median overall score was found to be 175. There was no significant association with gender, age, or type of university regarding overall scores. However, a statistically significant odds ratio was observed with PharmD program type and previous pharmaceutical marketing training (OR = 1.778, 95% CI = 1.143-2.765: OR = 0.618, 95% CI = 0.432-0.884, respectively). CONCLUSION: The overall median score shows a good work readiness level among pharmacy students/graduates in Saudi Arabia; however, PharmD program graduates exposed to advance pharmacy training, including the pharmaceutical marketing experience, have higher work readiness odds than Bpharm graduates. Further studies involving other related perspectives, such as stakeholders, employers, and preceptors, would give a clear image of pharmacy graduates' job readiness levels.

Knowledge, attitude, perception and practice of antibiotics usage among the pharmacy students.

BACKGROUND: Resistance to antibiotics causes negative impact on health of the patients. Antibiotic resistance is the major global concern that has to be nullified for the better health outcome. The knowledge on antibiotics is very essential for the students who undertake pharmacy and health science courses. Hence a study was aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, perception and practice on antibiotics usage among the pharmacy students of King Khalid University, KSA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective online questionnaire based survey was carried out among the pharmacy students about knowledge, attitude perception and practice of antibiotics using 5-point "Likert scale" and true/false responses. The responses range from strongly agree to strongly disagree, and always to never were recorded. The data were analysed by using simple descriptive statistics. RESULTS: Out of 300 students approached 212 responded and the response rate was found to be 71%. In this study, most (95%) of the students were aware of the emerging problem of antibiotic resistance due to inappropriate use of antibiotics. Majority (89%) of the students agreed the inappropriate use of antibiotics can increase the overall cost of treatment. However, over half of the (54%) students were not aware of the antibiotic resistance that may be a nation-wide problem of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The net positive response (NPR) and net other response (NOR) of all items in perception on antibiotics received more or less equal responses. CONCLUSION: The knowledge of antibiotics usage among the students are considerably good compared with previous studies. However, the attitude, perception and practice on antibiotics usage among the pharmacy students are very poor. It alarms the need of appropriate education to enlighten antibiotic awareness for the better disease prevention and health outcomes for the benefit of patient community.

The Impact of Discharged Loop Diuretic Dose to Home Dose on Hospital Readmissions in Patients with Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is associated with a high rate of hospital readmission. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the discharge diuretic dose compared with the home diuretic dose on hospital readmission in patients with ADHF. METHODS: A single center retrospective cohort study included patients with a confirmed diagnosis of ADHF with an ejection fraction of less than 40%. The sample was divided in two groups. The first group received a total daily discharge diuretic dose that was greater than the home dose; the second group received a daily discharge diuretic that was equal to or less than the home dose. The primary outcome was all-cause 30-day readmission rate. The secondary outcomes were all-cause 60-day and 90-day readmission rates. RESULTS: A total of 206 patients met inclusion criteria; 117 patients received a higher loop diuretic dose at discharge, while 89 were discharged with a loop diuretic that was equal to or less than the home dose. Patients in the increased-dose group had an all-cause 30-day readmission rate of 20.5% compared with 37.1% of patients with equal or reduced-dose group; P = .007. Additionally, there were lower readmission rates in 60 and 90 days between the increased and equal or reduced groups (33.3% versus 52.8%, P < .017, and 41.0% versus 62.9%, P < .003, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Among patients admitted to hospital with ADHF and reduced ejection fraction, a discharge loop diuretic dose higher than the home dose was associated with decreased all-cause 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day readmission rates.

Examining factors influencing public knowledge and practice of proper face mask usage during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic had an enormous impact on people's quality of life worldwide. Appropriate use of facemasks is an important checkpoint in containing the spread of infection, which was believed to provide the desired level of protection and preserve the community. Given the relative novelty of facemask use in the general population, it is imperative to prioritize the promotion of appropriate facemask utilization and identify factors that may contribute to poor adherence. Aim: This study assessed the factors that determined facemask use among the public. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among the residents of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between November 2020 and January 2021. The current study explored the factors such as demographic characteristics influencing the knowledge and practice of proper use of facemasks. The study included a total of 198 participants. The results were derived through binomial logistic regression analysis to determine the relationship between the demographic characteristics and responses. Results: The key findings of the study which are crucial in developing targeted intervention strategies to enhance the responsible use and disposal of facemasks are gender, income and employment. A significant difference was found between male and female participants regarding a positive approach to using facemasks, such as washing their hands (P = 0.042). In addition, homemakers differed significantly from students, regarding the correct usage of facemasks (P = 0.026). The study participants were aware that hand hygiene is essential when putting on and removing facemasks. Despite wearing facemasks properly, adult participants possessed less knowledge about the hazards of reusing facemasks and appropriate disposal (OR = 0.202, 95% CI [0.032-1.298]). Conclusion: The present research identified gender, income, and employment as the primary attributes that play a pivotal role in the formulation of focused intervention tactics aimed at improving the cautious use and appropriate disposal of facemasks. It is essential to implement nationwide awareness activities, such as information campaigns, to enhance knowledge. Health authorities should establish a functional infrastructure for the collection and disposal of used facemasks by the general public, starting with the dissemination of knowledge. Moreover, the results of the present study have significant implications for health preventive programs aimed at preparing for future pandemics, since they highlight the specific demographic groups that should be prioritized in the development of such policies. Furthermore, it is advisable to integrate these interventional initiatives with national health polices to promote preparedness for handling future pandemics.

An evaluation of knee osteoarthritis pain in the general community-Asir region, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is one of the most common conditions resulting in disability, particularly in the elderly population. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common articular disease and the leading cause of chronic disability in the developed world. OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out to evaluate knee pain in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia. An analytical cross-sectional survey design was adopted in the Asir region from April 2023 to August 2023 to assess the knee pain of the adult population using an anonymous online questionnaire. RESULTS: Of 1234, 332 were men (26.90) and 902 were women (73.09). WOMAC index score category 55.34% (n = 683) of the subjects had a low risk (score <60), 28.68% (n = 354) had a moderate risk (score 60-80), and 15.96% (n = 197) had a high risk (score ≥81) for KOA. According to clinical criteria, 79.33% (n = 979) of the study subjects had OA. Age group, gender 2.17 (1. 67-2.82) [OR 2.17; 95% CI 1.67-2.82), family history of OA [OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.37-0.62], diabetes [OR 2.78; 95% CI 2.17-3.56], hypertension [OR 0.35; 95% CI 0.26-0.45] were significantly associated with the percentage of the WOMAC index score using the Chi-square test analysis (P<0.05). Therefore, the WOMAC index showed higher diagnostic precision with a statistically significant association [OR 9.31 CI 6.90-12.81] with a P< 0.0001. CONCLUSION: KOA is more common in older, obese people who have reached the age of 50 in the Asir region, and it is more prevalent in women. Alarms the need for appropriate awareness programs for better disease prevention and health outcomes for the benefit of the community through general public health programs.

Co-Delivery of Naringin and Ciprofloxacin by Oleic Acid Lipid Core Encapsulated in Carboxymethyl Chitosan/Alginate Nanoparticle Composite for Enhanced Antimicrobial Activity.

A novel combination of antibiotic, ciprofloxacin (CIP) with herbal counterpart naringin (NAR) was encapsulated by an oleic acid lipid core and carboxymethyl chitosan (CM-CS)/Alginate (AG) nanoparticle composite (CIP + NAR-CM-CS/AG-NPs) for improved antimicrobial efficacy of antibiotic. Herein, this study explored the design and preparation of a composite system that enables to deliver both CIP and NAR from the oleic acid lipid core of CM-CS/AG nanoparticles using a nonsolvent ionic gelation technique. The nanoparticles (NPs) were fabricated with improved long-acting antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. The optimized composition was investigated for physicochemical properties particle size, particle distribution, and ζ-potential. A diverse array of analytical tools was employed to characterize the optimized formulation including DSC, XRD, Malvern Zetasizer for particle size, ζ-potential, TEM, and SEM. Further, the preparation was investigated for % drug release, flux determination, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity. The formulation stability was tested for 90 days and also evaluated formulation stability in fetal bovine serum to inspect the modification in physicochemical characteristics. NPs size was determined at 85 nm, PDI, and ζ-potential was recorded at 0.318, and 0.7 ± 0.4 mV. The % CIP and NAR entrapment efficiency and % loading were incurred as 91 ± 1.9, and 89.5 ± 1.2; 11.5 ± 0.6, and 10.8 ± 0.5%, respectively. The drug release erupted in the beginning phase followed by sustained and prolonged release for 48 h. The analytical experiments by DSC ensured the noninteracting and safe use of excipients in combination. X-ray studies demonstrated the amorphous state of the drug in the formulation. The insignificant alteration of formulation characteristics in FBS suggested stable and robust preparation. Storage stability of the developed formulation ensured consistent and uniform stability for three months. The DPPH assays demonstrated that NAR had good antioxidant capacity and supported improving antimicrobial activity of CIP. The hemolytic test suggested the developed formulation was compatible and caused insignificant RBC destruction. The in-house built formulation CIP + NAR-CM-CS/AG-NPs significantly improved the antimicrobial activity compared to CIP alone, offering a novel choice in antimicrobial application.

Biosocial predictors and blood pressure goal attainment among postmenopausal women with hypertension.

Objectives: In postmenopausal states, women may not maintain blood pressure (BP) in the same way as men, even though most women follow their treatment plans and prescriptions more consistently than men. Biological and lifestyle factors influence the progression of hypertension in postmenopausal women (PMW). This study aimed to determine biosocial predictors associated with achieving the target BP in PMW with hypertension. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the General Medicine Department at Karuna Medical College Hospital, Kerala, India. The definition of BP goal attainment was established based on the guidelines outlined by the VIII Joint National Committee 2014 (JNC VIII). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to analyse biosocial predictors, such as educational status, employment status, body mass index (BMI), number of children, age at menarche, age at menopause, and number of co-morbidities, associated with BP goal achievement. Results: Of the patients, 56.4% achieved their BP goals on monotherapy and 59.7% achieved it on combination therapy. Level of education [odds ratio (OR) = 1.275, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.234-7.172], employment status (OR = 0.853, 95% CI: 0.400-1.819), age at menopause (OR = 1.106, 95% CI: 0.881-1.149), number of children (OR = 1.152, 95% CI: 0.771-1.720), BMI (OR = 0.998, 95% CI: 0.929-1.071), and number of co-morbidities (OR = 0.068, 95% CI: 0.088-1.093) did not show a significant relationship, and age at menarche (OR = 1.577, 95% CI: 1.031-2.412) showed a significant association with BP goal attainment among hypertensive postmenopausal women. Conclusion: Half of the hypertensive postmenopausal women did not achieve their BP goals. Interventions are required to expand screening coverage and, under the direction of medical professionals, there should be plans to improve hypertension control and increase awareness of the condition.

Choline chloride/urea as a green and efficient deep eutectic solvent in three-component and four-component synthesis of novel pyrazole and pyrano[2,3-c] pyrazole derivatives with antibacterial and antifungal activity.

In this study, choline chloride/urea was used as a green deep eutectic solvent in the three-component reaction of hydrazine/phenylhydrazine, malononitrile, and aromatic aldehydes for synthesizing pyrazole derivatives, and in the four-component reaction of methyl/ethyl acetoacetate, hydrazine/phenylhydrazine, malononitrile, and aromatic aldehydes for synthesizing pyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole derivatives. Elemental analysis, 1H, and 13C NMR spectroscopy were used to confirm the structure of the synthesized pyrazole and pyrano[2,3-c] pyrazole derivatives. The antimicrobial effects of the synthesized pyrazole and pyrano[2,3-c] pyrazole derivatives were investigated. In antimicrobial tests, instructions from clinical and laboratory standards institutes were used. Antimicrobial study was done on pathogenic gram-positive and gram-negative species, and specialized aquatic strains and fungal species. Using choline chloride/urea, novel pyrazole derivatives and pyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole derivatives were synthesized, and other derivatives were synthesized with higher efficiency in less time than some previously reported methods. MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) and MBC (minimum bactericidal concentration) obtained for derivatives were higher than some antibiotic drugs. Synthesis and reports of new derivatives of pyrazole and pyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole, and investigation and reports of their antimicrobial properties on gram-positive, gram-negative, and specialized aquatic and fungal species are among the novel and important findings of this study.

A Prospective Study on Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Clinical Profile and Polysomnographic Variables.

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by recurring episodes of pharyngeal collapse, which can partially or completely block airflow during sleep and cause cardiorespiratory and neurological imbalances. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess OSA and the relationship between AHI and polysomnographic characteristics in OSA patients. Methodology: A prospective study was conducted at the Department of Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine for two years. All 216 participants underwent polysomnography, and 175 of them were reported to have OSA (AHI ≥ 5), while 41 of them did not (AHI < 5). ANOVA and Pearson's correlation coefficient test were performed. Results: In terms of the study population's average AHI, Group 1 had 1.69 ± 1.34, mild OSA had 11.79 ± 3.55, moderate OSA had 22.12 ± 4.34, and severe OSA was found to have 59.16 ± 22.15 events/hour. The study group's average age was 53.77 ± 7.19 out of 175 OSA patients. According to AHI, the BMI for mild OSA was 31.66 ± 8.32 kg/m2, for moderate OSA, it was 30.52 ± 3.99 kg/m2, and for severe OSA, it was 34.35 ± 8.22 kg/m2. The average number of oxygen desaturation events and snoring duration were 25.20 ± 18.63 and 24.61 ± 28.53 min, respectively. BMI (r = 0.249, p < 0.001), average oxygen saturation (r = -0.387, p < 0.000), oxygen desaturation (r = 0.661, p < 0.000), snoring time (r = 0.231, p < 0.002), and the number of snores (r = 0.383, p < 0.001) were the polysomnographic variables that showed significant correlations with AHI in the study group. Conclusions: In this study, a substantial prevalence of obesity and a high OSA frequency were found in men. Our research showed that individuals with obstructive sleep apnea experience nocturnal desaturations. Polysomnography is the primary test for early detection of this treatable condition.

Assessment of Oral Health Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviours among University Students in the Asir Region-Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours (KAB) of health and non-health-related students at university concerning oral health. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study with a 3-month duration in 2023 was conducted amongst King Khalid University (KKU) students. This study used a self-administered, anonymous web-based survey with a simple random sampling strategy as part of its cross-sectional design. The questionnaire had four sections totalling 26 questions to evaluate KAB. A chi-square test was used to evaluate significant differences between categories. RESULTS: Of the 845 respondents who completed the survey, 43.78% were health-related students, while 56.21% were non-health-related students. The completed responses included bacteria causing gingival problems (60.81% vs. 36%), fizzy soft drinks adversely affecting teeth (67.83% vs. 40%), tobacco chewing or smoking possibly causing oral cancer (68.37% vs. 44%), white patches or dental plaque on teeth (61.89% vs. 41.47%), brushing teeth twice a day to improve oral health (81.62% vs. 42.52%), keeping teeth clean (64.86% vs. 41.68%), improper brushing leading to gum disease (70% vs. 40.63%), brushing with fluoridated toothpaste to prevent tooth decay (63% vs. 40%), bleeding gums denoting gum infection (26.98% vs. 21.30%), the importance of teeth similar to any body part (61.62% vs. 37.89%), prioritising teeth as other parts of the body (61.05% vs. 36.21%), brushing teeth twice daily (55.67% vs. 37.05%), and routine dental check-ups (55.40% vs. 14.10%) for health and non-health-related students, respectively (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of the current study demonstrated less oral health KAB in non-health-related students than in health-related students. Nonetheless, healthcare students provided erroneous information regarding oral health. Therefore, we urge the appropriate authorities to offer health and non-health-related students the best oral health promotion programmes and services, thereby seeking to improve their oral health knowledge while stressing the importance of practising excellent oral hygiene.

Emergence of Nano-Based Formulations for Effective Delivery of Flavonoids against Topical Infectious Disorders.

Flavonoids are hydroxylated phenolic substances in vegetables, fruits, flowers, seeds, wine, tea, nuts, propolis, and honey. They belong to a versatile category of natural polyphenolic compounds. Their biological function depends on various factors such as their chemical structure, degree of hydroxylation, degree of polymerization conjugation, and substitutions. Flavonoids have gained considerable attention among researchers, as they show a wide range of pharmacological activities, including coronary heart disease prevention, antioxidative, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, free-radical scavenging, anticancer, and anti-atherosclerotic activities. Plants synthesize flavonoid compounds in response to pathogen attacks, and these compounds exhibit potent antimicrobial (antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral) activity against a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms. However, certain antibacterial flavonoids have the ability to selectively target the cell wall of bacteria and inhibit virulence factors, including biofilm formation. Moreover, some flavonoids are known to reverse antibiotic resistance and enhance the efficacy of existing antibiotic drugs. However, due to their poor solubility in water, flavonoids have limited oral bioavailability. They are quickly metabolized in the gastrointestinal region, which limits their ability to prevent and treat various disorders. The integration of flavonoids into nanomedicine constitutes a viable strategy for achieving efficient cutaneous delivery owing to their favorable encapsulation capacity and diminished toxicity. The utilization of nanoparticles or nanoformulations facilitates drug delivery by targeting the drug to the specific site of action and exhibits excellent physicochemical stability.

Patient Safety Culture in the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia: A Survey among Community Pharmacies.

Measuring patient safety culture in the community pharmacy can help with identifying areas for development. The current study is a descriptive, cross-sectional, electronic survey conducted among pharmacists working in community pharmacies located in the southern region of Saudi Arabia. The community pharmacy version of the "Pharmacy Survey on Patient Safety Culture" (PSOPSC) was used to collect data. The positive response rate (PRR) was calculated as per the guidance provided by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Based on the PRR, two least-achieved items (<25%) were taken for further analysis to identify the possible predictors. A sum of 195 pharmacists were included in this study and most of them were working in chain pharmacies. The highest PRRs were observed with teamwork (94.99), and patient counseling (94.13), followed by physical space and environment (93.07). The lowest PRRs were observed with staffing, work pressure, and pace (47.70), followed by communication openness (72.60). Specific characteristics, such as experience and the number of working hours, are significantly related to a poor PRR. The current study results indicate that the scope for improving patient safety exists in various areas of community pharmacies. However, it is necessary to prioritize the need based on a positive response rate.