Periodontal Health among Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities Living in a Saudi Institutional Rehabilitation Centre.

The aim of this study was to explore periodontal health among intellectually disabled individuals living in an institutional rehabilitation centre in the Al-Baha Region of Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023 to January 2024. Clinical oral examinations were carried out using the World Health Organization criteria for bleeding sites and the presence of periodontal pockets. Simplified oral hygiene and community periodontal indices were employed to evaluate participants' oral health. A total of 89 participants, comprising both males and females with intellectual disabilities, were included in this study. Gender, severity of intellectual disability, type of additional physical disability, tooth brushing habits and oral hygiene status were significantly associated with the presence of periodontal disease. Additionally, poor oral hygiene, not brushing teeth and periodontal pockets of 4-5 mm and 6 mm or more were significantly more prevalent among individuals with severe and moderate intellectual disabilities (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). The prevalence of periodontal disease among the studied population was 54%. The odds of having periodontal disease were significantly higher in the severe intellectual disability group compared to the mild intellectual disability group (OR = 2.328, 95% CI = 1.430-3.631, p = 0.03). It was also found that intellectually disabled participants with additional physical disabilities suffered more from periodontal disease than those without additional physical disabilities (OR = 0.971, 95% CI = 0.235-4.023, p = 0.025). Overall, individuals with intellectual disabilities had a significant demand for periodontal care. This study highlighted the need for more organised preventive programmes for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Dentists should be vigilant about improving periodontal health, focus on preventive programmes and provide comprehensive dental care with an emphasis on periodic recall and monitoring.

Sensorineural hearing loss among type 2 diabetic patients and its association with peripheral neuropathy: a cross-sectional study from a lower middle-income country.

INTRODUCTION: Despite potential links between diabetes and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), routine hearing assessments for diabetic patients are not standard practice. Our study aimed to investigate the prevalence of SNHL and its association with diabetes-related factors among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Diabetes Clinic, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan, from May to September 2021. A total of 396 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria participated after informed consent. Data collection involved a sociodemographic profile, Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument examination followed by pure-tone audiometry and laboratory tests including haemoglobin A1C (HbA1c). HL was defined using better ear four-frequency pure-tone average of ≥26 dB HL and graded as per WHO criteria. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. χ2, independent t-test and multinomial logistic regression analyses were applied. P<0.05 at 95% CI was considered significant. RESULTS: Our study revealed a high prevalence of SNHL among patients with T2DM. Mild HL was seen in 55.8%, while 18.7% suffered from moderate HL. Common audiological symptoms included difficulty understanding speech in noisy surroundings (44.2%), balance problems (42.9%), sentence repetition (35.9%), tinnitus (32.3%) and differentiating consonants (31.1%). Hearing impairment predominantly affected low (0.25-0.5 kHz) and high (4-8 kHz) frequencies with a significant difference at 4 kHz among both sexes (t (394)=2.8, p=0.004). Peripheral neuropathy was significantly associated with SNHL on multinomial logistic regression after adjusting with age, sex, body mass index and the presence of any comorbidities. Diabetes duration, HbA1c or family history of diabetes was found unrelated to SNHL severity. CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights the substantial prevalence of SNHL among patients with T2DM and emphasises the importance of targeted audiological care as part of a holistic approach to diabetes management. Addressing HL early may significantly improve communication and overall quality of life.

An Observation Study of Caries Experience and Potential Risk Assessments among Disabled Individuals Living in an Institutional Rehabilitation Centre.

The aim of this study was to conduct salivary, microbiological, and caries risk assessments in relation to caries experience among individuals with intellectual disability in an institutional center in the Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 89 patients residing in special care homes in the Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia, from October 2023 to February 2024. The demographic details of all participants were recorded. Clinical oral examinations were performed for the decayed, missing, or filled teeth (DMFT) and plaque indices. Salivary and microbiological assessments were also carried out. The mean age of the study sample was 30.11 ± 4.39 years, and the mean duration of years spent residing in the facility was 26.49 ± 4.66. There was no significant difference observed across plaque scores, S. mutans colony count, salivary rate, pH, DFMT, and caries experience when they were compared across the levels of severity of intellectual disability. Statistically significant differences were observed across diet score, circumstance score, and chances to avoid caries and were found to be correlated with the severity of intellectual disability (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.002), respectively. The cariogram revealed that participants in this study had poor oral health status, with participants with severe intellectual disability having higher diet scores, frequency scores, and susceptibility scores; hence lesser chances to avoid dental caries. Regular dental check-ups, including cleanings and other treatments if necessary, seem to be fundamental to prevent dental issues and maintain healthy teeth and gums for this group of people. Developing interventions that focus on improving oral health status among intellectually disabled individuals may be recommended to ensure the optimum level of support and reduce the burden of dental decay among those individuals.

Synthesis, molecular docking study and biological evaluation of new pyrrole scaffolds as potential antitubercular agents for dual targeting of enoyl ACP reductase and dihydrofolate reductase.

In this study, new series of N'-(2-(substitutedphenoxy)acetyl)-4-(1H-pyrrol-1-yl)benzohydrazides (3a-j) 4-(2,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrrol-1-yl)-N'-(2-(substitutedphenoxy)acetyl)benzohydrazides (5a-j) were synthesized, characterized and assessed as inhibitors of enoyl ACP reductase and DHFR. Most of the compounds exhibited dual inhibition against the enzymes enoyl ACP reductase and DHFR. Several synthesized substances also demonstrated significant antibacterial and antitubercular properties. A molecular docking analysis was conducted in order to determine the potential mechanism of action of the synthesized compounds. The results indicated that there were binding interactions seen with the active sites of dihydrofolate reductase and enoyl ACP reductase. Additionally, important structural details were identified that play a critical role in sustaining the dual inhibitory activity. These findings were useful for the development of future dual inhibitors. Therefore, this study provided strong evidence that several synthesized molecules could exert their antitubercular properties at the cellular level through multi-target inhibition. By shedding light on the mechanisms through which these compounds exert their inhibitory effects, this research opens up promising avenues for the future development of dual inhibitors with enhanced antibacterial and antitubercular properties. The study's findings underscore the importance of multi-target approaches in drug design, providing a strong foundation for the design and optimization of novel compounds that can effectively target bacterial infections at the cellular level.

Microbial Adhesion to Different Thermoplastic Denture Base Materials in Kennedy Class I Partially Edentulous Patients.

Introduction Since the polished and fitting surface of the denture base may promote the colonization of microorganisms, it is essential to know how the different types of denture bases prevent or encourage the adhesion of microorganisms. This study aimed to compare the microbial adhesion to the polished and fitting surfaces of thermoplastic nylon, thermoplastic acetal, and thermoplastic acrylic denture bases in Kennedy Class Ⅰ, partially edentulous patients. Materials and methods Thirteen patients were included in the study. The group consisted of eight males (61.54%) and five females (38.46%), with an age range of 41-50 years (mean age 46.1 years). Three types (groups) of removable partial dentures will be made for each patient using different thermoplastic denture base materials: thermoplastic nylon; thermoplastic acetal; and thermoplastic acrylic. The polished and fitting surfaces of the denture bases were swabbed after a one-month follow-up period. Microbial adhesion was evaluated by counting the microorganisms' colony-forming units (CFU) in the collected specimens. The data were collected and statistically analyzed. Results The study revealed no statistically significant difference in microbial adhesion to both polished and fitting surfaces between all types of studied thermoplastic denture base materials. However, the results showed that for the polished surface, the microbial adhesion median of thermoplastic acrylic denture base (40.5 CC x 102/ml) was higher than that of thermoplastic acetal (29.0 CC x 102/ml) and thermoplastic nylon (16.0 CC x 102/ml). Regarding the fitting surface, the microbial adhesion median of thermoplastic acrylic (51.0 CC x 102/ml) is higher than that of thermoplastic acetal (41.0 CC x 102/ml) and thermoplastic nylon (23.0 CC x 102/ml). Conclusion The thermoplastic nylon denture base materials showed less microbial adhesion among the studied thermoplastic materials, so it may be recommended to be used as a denture base material for individuals at high risk of denture stomatitis.

Pesticides impacts on human health and the environment with their mechanisms of action and possible countermeasures.

Pesticides are chemical constituents used to prevent or control pests, including insects, rodents, fungi, weeds, and other unwanted organisms. Despite their advantages in crop production and disease management, the use of pesticides poses significant hazards to the environment and public health. Pesticide elements have now perpetually entered our atmosphere and subsequently contaminated water, food, and soil, leading to health threats ranging from acute to chronic toxicities. Pesticides can cause acute toxicity if a high dose is inhaled, ingested, or comes into contact with the skin or eyes, while prolonged or recurrent exposure to pesticides leads to chronic toxicity. Pesticides produce different types of toxicity, for instance, neurotoxicity, mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, teratogenicity, and endocrine disruption. The toxicity of a pesticide formulation may depend on the specific active ingredient and the presence of synergistic or inert compounds that can enhance or modify its toxicity. Safety concerns are the need of the hour to control contemporary pesticide-induced health hazards. The effectiveness and implementation of the current legislature in providing ample protection for human health and the environment are key concerns. This review explored a comprehensive summary of pesticides regarding their updated impacts on human health and advanced safety concerns with legislation. Implementing regulations, proper training, and education can help mitigate the negative impacts of pesticide use and promote safer and more sustainable agricultural practices.

miRNAs dysregulation in ankylosing spondylitis: A review of implications for disease mechanisms, and diagnostic markers.

Epigenetic processes, including non-coding RNA, histone modifications, and DNA methylation, play a vital role in connecting the environment to the development of a disorder, especially when there is a favorable genetic background. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a chronic type of spinal arthritis that highlights the significance of epigenetics in diseases related to autoimmunity and inflammation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that are involved in both normal and aberrant pathological and physiological gene expression. This study focuses on the pathophysiological pathways to clarify the role of miRNAs in AS. We have conducted a thorough investigation of the involvement of miRNAs in several processes, including inflammation, the production of new bone, T-cell activity, and the regulation of pathways such as BMP, Wnt, and TGFß signaling. Undoubtedly, miRNAs play a crucial role in enhancing our comprehension of the pathophysiology of AS, and their promise as a therapeutic strategy is quickly expanding.

Pharmacy faculty experiences with student academic entitlement: a multinational study from the Arab world.

Academic Entitlement (AE) is the expectation by students to receive high grades or preferential treatment without significant effort. Exploring AE from faculty perspective has not been investigated in Arab colleges of pharmacy. The aim of this study was to explore experiences and perceptions towards student AE among pharmacy faculty in the Arab World. A cross-sectional, self-administered, anonymous, electronic survey was sent to pharmacy faculty across pharmacy colleges in Arab countries. The survey collected demographic data, an AE measure including 17 items reflecting seven AE components, and faculty perceptions and perceived reasons for AE. A total of 345 responses were collected. The AE level was moderate (46.05 ±7.29), and the highest scores among its components were for customer service expectation (62%) and responsibility avoidance (59%). In multiple linear regression, AE showed positive significant association with faculty in clinical pharmacy departments and those having fewer years of experience. Most common complaints heard by faculty from students were requests to turn in assignments late (90%), while the most common communication issues faculty faced with students were unprofessional verbal communication (58%) and unprofessional messages on social media (57%). Poor admission criteria (40%) and existence of multiple private colleges of pharmacy (37%) were the most common perceived reasons for AE by participating faculty. This study reveals moderate AE experienced by pharmacy faculty in the Arab World, as well as common complaints, communication issues, and AE reasons. In collaboration with other stakeholders, faculty play an important role in indicating expectations from students regarding AE, and research is warranted to check if such interventions reduce AE among pharmacy students.

An overview on the key advantages and limitations of batch and dynamic modes of biosorption of metal ions.

Water purification using adsorption is a crucial process for maintaining human life and preserving the environment. Batch and dynamic adsorption modes are two types of water purification processes that are commonly used in various countries due to their simplicity and feasibility on an industrial scale. However, it is important to understand the advantages and limitations of these two adsorption modes in industrial applications. Also, the possibility of using batch mode in industrial scale was scrutinized, along with the necessity of using dynamic mode in such applications. In addition, the reasons for the necessity of performing batch adsorption studies before starting the treatment on an industrial scale were mentioned and discussed. In fact, this review article attempts to throw light on these subjects by comparing the biosorption efficiency of some metals on utilized biosorbents, using both batch and fixed-bed (column) adsorption modes. The comparison is based on the effectiveness of the two processes and the mechanisms involved in the treatment. Parameters such as biosorption capacity, percentage removal, and isotherm models for both batch and column (fixed bed) studies are compared. The article also explains thermodynamic and kinetic models for batch adsorption and discusses breakthrough evaluations in adsorptive column systems. The review highlights the benefits of using convenient batch-wise biosorption in lab-scale studies and the key advantages of column biosorption in industrial applications.

Evaluation of Zygomaticomaxillary Complex Fractures with Gillies Approach in Al-Baha Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cohort Study.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the degree of fracture reduction after open reduction and internal fixation of Zygomaticomaxillary Complex (ZMC) fractures in the Saudi population of the Al-Baha region, using Gillies approach. Further comparison with preoperative and postoperative standardized computed tomography (CT) views with the calculation of residual deformity percentage, which remained after the ZMC rehabilitation. Methods: A 5-year retrospective CT-based study on preoperative and postoperative axial CT scans of 46 male patients with ZMC fractures. The CT measurements were made (in millimeters) at the fracture site of maximum displacement through the anterior orbital rim and orbital floor, posterolateral wall of the maxillary sinus, zygomatic arch, and zygomaticofrontal suture. For the zygomatic arch, measurements were made (in mm) by drawing a tangent to the fractured arch segments and dropping a perpendicular to the inward displaced fractured arch. The total difference in all measured parts between preoperative and postoperative displacement was calculated in percentages. Results: Upon comparison of preoperative and postoperative zygomaticomaxillary complex CTs, three-point fixation at the regions of infraorbital rim, frontozygomatic suture, and posterolateral wall of the maxilla results in a reduction of the fracture sites in the range of 72.85% to 85%. Maximum reduction was noted at the zygomatic arch, that is, 85%, and minimum at the infraorbital rim, that is, 72.85%. The reduction obtained at all four sites was statistically significant, with P values ranging from .011 to .039. Conclusion: Gillies temporal approach and three-point fixation at the regions of the infraorbital rim, frontozygomatic suture, and posterolateral wall of the maxilla results in satisfactory treatment of ZMC fractures and improves patients oral health and quality of life.

Persistence of a hypoglossal artery: Case report.

Persistent primitive hypoglossal artery (PPHA) is a rare embryological carotid-basilar anastomosis. Diagnosis is by imaging and computed tomography angiography is the most common methods employed. Herein we present a case of a 51 years-old Indian male, who admitted with midnight nonwitnessed syncope. CT angiogram of the brain revealed a very rare caroto-basilar anastomoses anomaly with PPHA.

Efficacy of automated fasteners versus hand-tied knots in cardiac surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Valve surgery is common in cardiac procedures, with fasteners like COR-KNOT® and hand-tied knots used for knot securing. This study compares their efficacy in valve surgery patients. We searched PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Central until August 2023. Outcomes assessed included aortic cross-clamp time (AXT), cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, valvular regurgitation, mortality, prolonged ventilatory support, atrial fibrillation, postoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and renal failure. Subgroup analysis was performed for minimally invasive and open cardiac surgery. We used a random effects model for analysis. We included eight observational studies and two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a total of 1.411 participants. COR-KNOT significantly reduced AXT [MD -15.14, 95 % CI (-18.57, -11.70), P<0.00001] and CPB time [MD -12.38, 95 % CI (-14.99, -9.77), P<0.00001]. Valvular regurgitation [RR 0.40, 95 % CI (0.26, 0.61), P<0.0001] and need for prolonged ventilatory support [RR 0.29, 95 % CI (0.13, 0.65), P=0.003] were significantly lower with COR-KNOT. There were no significant differences in mortality [RR 0.39, 95 % CI (0.09, 1.69), P=0.44], atrial fibrillation [RR 1.03, 95 % CI (0.83, 1.27), P=0.81], LVEF changes [MD 0.05, 95 % CI (-1.37, 1.47), P = 0.95], or renal failure [RR 0.87, 95 % CI (0.16, 4.80), P = 0.87]. COR-KNOT devices reduce operative time and valvular regurgitation without increasing mortality or adverse outcomes. This supports their use in enhancing surgical efficiency and patient outcomes. However, ongoing discussions about suturing techniques, especially in minimally invasive procedures, highlight the need for further research and consensus among practitioners. See also the graphical abstract(Fig. 1).

Therapeutic significance of long noncoding RNAs in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

About 70% of cases of breast cancer are compromised by Estrogen-positive breast cancer. Through its regulation of several processes, including cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and apoptosis, Estrogen signaling plays a pivotal role in the genesis and progression of this particular kind of breast cancer. One of the best treatment strategies for treating Estrogen-positive breast cancer is blocking Estrogen signaling. However, patients' treatment failure is mainly caused by the emergence of resistance and metastases, necessitating the development of novel therapeutic targets. Numerous studies have shown long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) to play a role in Estrogen-mediated carcinogenesis. These lncRNAs interact with co-regulators and the Estrogen signaling cascade components, primarily due to Estrogen activation. Vimentin and E-cadherin are examples of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition markers, and they regulate genes involved in cell cycle progression, such as Cyclins, to affect the growth, proliferation, and metastasis of Estrogen-positive breast cancer. Furthermore, a few of these lncRNAs contribute to developing resistance to chemotherapy, making them more desirable targets for enhancing results. Thus, to shed light on the creation of fresh approaches for treating this cancer, this review attempts to compile recently conducted studies on the relationship between lncRNAs and the advancement of Estrogen-positive breast cancer.

Psychological Impact and Quality of Life in Adults With Tinnitus: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Tinnitus may directly or indirectly influence professional, personal, and leisure activities and disrupt family and social relationships in severe cases. This study aimed to explore the impact of tinnitus on the quality of life (QoL) and psychological well-being among Saudi Arabian adults. METHODS: This study used a cross-sectional design to collect data from adults experiencing tinnitus. Data collection took place between September 5, 2023 and October 7, 2023 at King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. The study involved adults aged 18 to 65 with tinnitus. Participants were recruited from audiology clinics. A multi-stage stratified random sampling method was used to recruit the study participants. The severity of tinnitus handicap was assessed using the 25-item Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) questionnaire. THI consists of 25 items divided into functional, emotional, and catastrophic subscales. The total score ranges from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating greater tinnitus-related handicap. THI scores are categorized into 0-16, 18-36, 38-56, 58-76, and 78-100. RESULTS:  A total of 163 participants were included in this study. The largest age group category was 18-29 years, comprising 57.05% (n = 93) of the sample. The study included a slightly higher percentage of female participants (65.03%, n = 106). More than three-fifths (61.96% ) of the participants were from the Western Region (n = 101), 91.40% (n = 149) were Saudi nationals, 55.21% (n = 90) were single, 67.5% (n = 110) had university education, 46.0% (n = 75) had income less than 500 SAR, 44.78% (n =73) was employed, and 74.23% (n = 121) did not smoke. Tinnitus hurts emotions and QoL. The largest proportion of the studied patients with tinnitus faced catastrophic handicaps (24.5%, n = 40), and nearly equal proportions experienced mild and moderate handicaps (23.3%, n = 38 and 23.9%, n =39, respectively). Severe handicap was reported in 15.3% (n = 25), while a slight effect was reported in (12.9%, n = 21). Tinnitus affected their hearing (36.81%, n = 60); interfered with daily life (33.74%, n = 55), social activities (30.06%, n = 49), social relationships (29.45%, n = 48), and concentration (37.42%, n = 61); caused fatigue (38.04%, n = 62) and sleep disturbances (36.81%, n = 60); and prevented them from enjoying life (25.77%, n = 42). Tinnitus caused anger (47.85%, n = 78), confusion (42.94%, n = 70), anxiety (43.56%, n = 71), feeling unsafe (33.74%, n = 55), desperation (36.81%, n = 60), frustration (30.06%, n = 49), being upset (38.04%, n = 62), experiencing depression (30.67%), and challenges in coping with stress (31.29%). There was a significant association between the THI score and region of residence (p = 0.02), income (p = 0.041), occupation (p = 0.013), and smoking (p = 0.014). CONCLUSIONS: Our research underscored the profound impact of tinnitus on the QoL among adults in Saudi Arabia. A significant portion of the studied patients faced catastrophic handicaps, emphasizing the severity of the condition. These findings underscore the multifaceted and far-reaching consequences of tinnitus, highlighting the need for comprehensive support and management strategies tailored to the unique sociodemographic factors influencing individuals' experiences.

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) PVT1 in drug resistance of cancers: Focus on pathological mechanisms.

According to estimates, cancer will be the leading cause of death globally in 2022, accounting for 9.6 million deaths. At present, the three main therapeutic modalities utilized to treat cancer are radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery. However, during treatment, tumor cells resistant to chemotherapy may arise. Drug resistance remains a major oppose since it often leads to therapeutic failure. Furthermore, the term "acquired drug resistance" describes the situation where tumor cells already display drug resistance before undergoing chemotherapy. However, little is still known about the basic mechanisms underlying chemotherapy-induced drug resistance. The development of new technologies and bioinformatics has led to the discovery of additional genes associated with drug resistance. Long noncoding RNA plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, according to a growing body of research. Apart from biological functions associated with cell division, development, pluripotency, and cell cycle, lncRNA PVT1 contributes significantly to the regulation of various aspects of genome function, such as transcription, splicing, and epigenetics. The article will address the mechanism by which lncRNA PVT1 influences drug resistance in cancer cells.

Study to Determine the Prevalence of Menstrual Migraine in Reproductive-Age Women in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Migraine is a common health condition in both men and women. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects many women during their menstrual cycle, with around 50-60% of women with migraine attacks experiencing menstrual headaches. Most have mild symptoms, but 5-8% suffer from moderate to severe symptoms, causing distress and functional issues. Pure menstrual migraine (PMM) occurs in about 50% of women with migraine, and it can be debilitating in terms of frequency and severity. This information is crucial for Saudi Arabian medical professionals to provide better care and support, improving the quality of life for women with PMS and menstrual migraine (MM) attacks. OBJECTIVES: To estimate the prevalence of MM in women, to evaluate the severity and frequency of MM in women with PMS, and to identify potential risk factors aggravating MM in women with PMS in Saudi Arabia. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted on reproductive-aged (18-50 years) women who had regular menstrual cycles and were diagnosed with PMS, using a self-administered questionnaire between December 2022 to May 2023 in Saudi Arabia. RESULTS: Out of the 2130 female participants, 397 (18.6%) had migraine. Among these 397 migraine sufferers, 230 (57.9%) experienced MM, while 167 (42.1%) had non-MM. In reproductive women in general, MM occurred in 10.7% of cases, while non-MM was observed in 7.8%. There is a correlation between increasing BMI and an increased incidence of MM. About one-third of the participants experienced moderate disability due to migraine attacks, with 134 (33.8%) individuals affected. Additionally, most MM sufferers missed at least 3 days of work in the last 3 months due to their condition. CONCLUSIONS: Migraine attacks occurring during the menstrual cycle impair the ability to engage in social, physical, household, and academic activities, often hindering the fulfillment of professional commitments. To gain a deeper understanding of menstrual and non-menstrual migraine attacks, it is essential to conduct extensive prospective studies aimed at developing effective management strategies.

The association of exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls with lipid profile and liver enzymes in umbilical cord blood samples.

Evidence on prenatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and its effects on newborns and potential biological mechanisms is not well defined yet. Therefore, this study aimed to examine whether PCBs are associated with lipid profile and non-invasive markers of hepatocyte injuries in samples of blood obtained from the umbilical cord. This study included 450 mothers-newborn pairs. Umbilical levels of PCBs were measured using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrophotometry (GC/MS). Lipid profile including low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), as well as liver enzymes i.e., alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST), γ-glutamyl-transferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were determined from umbilical cord blood samples. Quantile g-computation analysis was applied to evaluate the collective influence of PCBs on both lipid profiles and liver enzymes, along with the impact of lipid profiles on liver enzymes. Exposure to the mixture of PCBs was significantly associated with increases in ALP, AST, ALT, and GGT levels in cord blood samples, with increments of 90.38 U/L (95%CI: 65.08, 115.70, p < 0.01), 11.88 U/L (95%CI: 9.03, 14.74, p < 0.01), 2.19 U/L (95%CI:1.43, 2.94, p < 0.01), and 50.67 U/L (95%CI: 36.32, 65.03, p < 0.01), respectively. Additionally, combined PCBs exposure was correlated with significant increases in umbilical TG, TC, and LDL-C levels, with values of 3.97 mg/dL (95%CI: 0.86, 7.09, p = 0.01), 6.30 mg/dL (95%CI: 2.98, 9.61, p < 0.01), and 4.63 mg/dL (95%CI: 2.04, 7.23, p < 0.01) respectively. Exposure to the mixture of lipids was linked to elevated levels of AST and GGT in umbilical cord blood samples. Furthermore, a noteworthy mediating role of TC and LDL-C was observed in the association between total PCBs exposure and umbilical cord blood liver enzyme levels. Overall our findings suggested that higher levels of umbilical cord blood PCBs and lipid profile could affect liver function in newborns.

Awareness of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Screening Before Marriage and Pregnancy Among Adults in the Al-Baha Region, Saudi Arabia.

Background Hepatitis B is a global public health concern. Understanding the awareness, testing practices, and vaccination status of individuals is crucial for effective prevention and control strategies. This study aims to assess these aspects among participants in the Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted among 440 participants. Demographic data, awareness of hepatitis B, knowledge of transmission modes, symptoms, and complications were collected through a structured questionnaire. Participants' testing and screening practices, sources of information, and vaccination status were also assessed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and associations were explored using chi-square tests. Results The majority of participants were females (51.8%) and aged 18-25 years (55.2%). While most participants had heard of hepatitis B (85.7%), only a small percentage correctly identified sexual contact as a mode of transmission (38.6%). Knowledge regarding symptoms and complications was moderate, with 52.3% correctly identifying symptoms and 69.8% recognizing liver damage and cirrhosis as complications. Although awareness of screening was high (84.8%), the actual practice was low (35.0%). Education was the least reported source of information, while the internet (46.7%) and health care provider (27.6%) were commonly mentioned. Approximately half of the participants reported receiving the hepatitis B vaccine (48.9%), but a significant proportion had not completed all vaccine doses (55.0%). Conclusion The study revealed moderate awareness of hepatitis B among the participants, but knowledge gaps existed regarding transmission modes and complete symptom recognition. Testing and screening practices were suboptimal, with low rates of screening despite high awareness. Vaccination uptake was moderate, but incomplete vaccine schedules were prevalent. Targeted educational campaigns are needed to address knowledge gaps, promote testing and completion of vaccination schedules, and enhance the role of healthcare providers in disseminating accurate information. Improving knowledge and practices related to hepatitis B can strengthen public health efforts, enhance prevention, and control strategies.

Academic Entitlement Among Pharmacy Students in the Arab World: A Multi-National Exploratory Study.

OBJECTIVE: The study's aim was to explore academic entitlement among pharmacy students in different pharmacy colleges in the Arab World and assess associated factors. METHODS: This study design was a cross-sectional survey. Data were collected using a self-administered electronic questionnaire posted across pharmacy college networks in 10 Arab countries (Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates). The electronic survey was administered through Qualtrics Survey Software, and its link was open from January 23, 2022 to May 13, 2022. The multiple linear regression measured the association between different predictors and the academic entitlement. RESULTS: A total of 2386 surveys were received from students studying in 10 different Arab countries. The majority of responding students were male and studying in a Bachelor of pharmacy program. Students reported an agreeable attitude in 4 areas: rewards for efforts, customer orientation, customer service expectation, and general academic entitlement. In accommodation, a neutral attitude was reported, while they reported a disagreeing attitude in the responsibility avoidance domain. In grade haggling, the 3 items of the domain had different attitudes. Only 3 factors had a significant negative association with student entitlement (professionalism, GPA, and year in the study program). CONCLUSION: The academic entitlement scores among pharmacy students in the Arab World were high and had a negative association with professionalism perceptions. This study finding is a call for pharmacy programs to consider the effect of academic entitlement on pharmacy education and to obtain in-depth evidence on its magnitude and associated factors.