Barriers to Breast Cancer Screening in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Breast cancer is a significant public health concern globally, and early detection through screening programs can improve treatment outcomes and reduce mortality rates. However, the uptake of breast cancer screening among women in Saudi Arabia is hindered by various barriers. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to elucidate the barriers to breast cancer screening among women in Saudi Arabia, providing insights into the multifaceted challenges hindering screening uptake and informing tailored interventions and policy recommendations. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across electronic databases and grey literature sources to identify relevant studies on barriers to breast cancer screening in Saudi Arabia. Studies conducted between 2017 and 2023, employing diverse settings and methodologies, were included in the analysis. Data on the prevalence of barriers, family history of breast cancer, and self-reported breast examination practices were extracted and synthesized. A total of 14 studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing diverse populations and methodologies. The included studies predominantly employed cross-sectional survey designs and targeted various populations across different regions of Saudi Arabia. The barriers to breast cancer screening were investigated, revealing concerns such as fear of discovering cancer, embarrassment due to breast-related tests, fear of pain related to clinical examination, and lack of awareness. Additionally, a substantial proportion of participants reported a family history of breast cancer, indicating a significant risk factor for the disease. Self-reported breast examination practices varied among participants, with disparities in screening behaviors observed. Our review identified fear of diagnosis, embarrassment, and lack of awareness as key barriers to breast cancer screening in Saudi Arabia. Targeted interventions, including education and improved access, are essential to address these challenges and enhance early detection efforts, reducing the burden of breast cancer.

Self-prescription with psychotropic medications by healthcare professionals working at mental health institutions in Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Healthcare professionals who work in mental health institutions are more exposed to psychotropic medications than those in other healthcare institutions and are, therefore, more likely to self-prescribe. Self-prescription is a concerning phenomenon because of the potential for medication misuse, drug interaction, addiction, and other social, physical, and psychological consequences. This study investigated the prevalence of self-prescription of psychotropic medications and the most common self-prescribed psychotropic medications by healthcare professionals in mental health institutions in Saudi Arabia. It also aimed to determine the possible side effects and factors associated with self-prescription of psychotropic medications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study using an electronic survey consisting of a researcher-designed checklist, targeting healthcare professionals in mental health institutions in Saudi Arabia. The independent variables were sex, nationality, occupation, place of residence, place of work, previous diagnosis of mental illness, marital, and living status. Data were analyzed, using SPSS, and frequency distribution and percentages were calculated. Chi-square test was employed to determine association between self-prescription and various independent variables. RESULTS: The final sample size was 588; 9.5% healthcare professionals working at mental health institutions in Saudi Arabia admitted to self-prescription with psychotropic medications. Almost half of those who admitted to self-prescription (48.2%) and about 1/4 (23.2%) self-prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and benzodiazepines, respectively. The most commonly reported side effects of self-prescription were gastrointestinal symptoms and drowsiness. The study also suggested that males were significantly more prone to self-prescribing than females (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first study in Saudi Arabia to assess the self-prescription of psychotropic medications by healthcare professionals at mental health institutions. This study is important for decision-makers in their planning and updating of prescription policies. It is also equally important to spread awareness among healthcare professionals about the consequences of self-prescription.

The Pathological Pattern of Breast Cancer in the Najran Region of Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Study.

Background Breast cancer (BC) is the most widespread cancer on a global scale, and its prevalence is likewise significant in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, the data accessible regarding the epidemiology and histopathological characteristics of BC in clinical practice is restricted and primarily confined to research endeavors. Aim This study aims to investigate the histopathological profile of women diagnosed with BC seeking treatment at King Khalid Hospital in the Najran region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methods In this retrospective study, BC biopsies performed on Saudi patients at King Khalid Hospital between January 2018 and December 2022 were examined. All records of breast biopsies from this timeframe were extracted from the hospital's histopathology laboratory computer database after written permission from the head of the laboratory department. For all neoplastic lesions, the World Health Organization's 2012 categorization of breast tumors was applied. Results A total of 61 women with BC were included. Women's age ranged from 30 to 89 years, with a mean age of 49.6 ± 12.3 years. The most reported BC was invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC; 70.5%). Other types reported included invasive papillary carcinoma (8.2%), ductal carcinoma in situ (4.9%), and invasive lobular carcinoma (3.3%). A total of 14 (23%) of the study women had multifocal cancer. Ki-67 was high in 19 cases (31.1%); six (9.8%) had BRCA1 mutations, and six (9.8%) had BRCA2 mutations. Conclusion The current study revealed that BC was frequent among young females, mainly IDC, which was reported on both sides at different sizes and grades. Breast lump was the most commonly presented symptom and had a high representation in women with hormonal receptors, mainly estrogen receptors, but positive genetic testing was infrequent.

COVID-19 infections among health care workers at a university hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection among health care workers (HCWs) at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A prospective cross-sectional study of HCWs confirmed to have COVID-19 infection from March 1, 2020 to December 31, 2022. RESULTS: A total of 746 HCWs were diagnosed with COVID-19. Patients' age ranged from 22 to 60 years with a mean ± standard deviation of 37.4 ± 8.7 years. The infection was community-acquired in 584 (78.3%) HCWs. The vast majority (82.6%) of the infected HCWs had no comorbidities. Nurses (400/746 or 53.6%) represented the largest professional group, followed by physicians (128/746 or 17.2%), administrative staff (125/746 or 16.8%), respiratory therapists (54/746 or 7.2%), and physiotherapists (39/746 or 5.2%). Symptoms included fever (64.1%), cough (55.6%), sore throat (44.6%), headache (22.9%), runny nose (19.6%), shortness of breath (19.0%), fatigue (12.7%), body aches (11.4%), diarrhea (10.9%), vomiting (4.4%), and abdominal pain (2.8%). Most (647 or 86.7%) patients were managed as outpatients. Four (0.5%) HCWs died. CONCLUSIONS: HCWs face a dual risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, both from community exposure and within the hospital setting. Comprehensive infection control strategies are needed to protect HCWs both inside and outside the hospital environment.

Assessment of depression in children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes mellitus: Impact and intervention strategies.

Depression is a common comorbidity in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), yet its prevalence, impact, and intervention strategies remain underexplored. This study aims to assess the prevalence of depression among children and adolescents with T1DM, investigate its impact on health outcomes, and explore potential intervention strategies. A convenient sampling method was employed to recruit 229 participants aged 6 to 18 years from a single center. Data collection involved validated assessments, demographic surveys, and diabetes-related factor examinations during routine clinic visits. The patient health questionnaire-9 was utilized to evaluate the severity of depressive symptoms. Associations between depression and sociodemographic variables, diabetes management factors, and health behaviors were analyzed using chi-squared tests and logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of depression among participants was 43.23%. Older age, lower parental education levels, lower household income, smoking, and comorbidities were identified as significant risk factors for depression. Associations were found between depression and diabetes management factors, including glycemic control and frequency of glucose monitoring. Depression is highly prevalent among children and adolescents with T1DM and is associated with sociodemographic factors, health behaviors, and diabetes management. Integrated approaches to care that address both physical and mental health aspects are crucial for improving outcomes in this population.

Open-label, dose-escalation FIGHT-101 study of pemigatinib combined with targeted therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy in patients with advanced malignancies.

BACKGROUND: Pemigatinib is an oral, potent, selective fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) 1-3 inhibitor. FIGHT-101, a three-part, open-label, first-in-human, phase I/II study (NCT02393248), evaluated pemigatinib in patients with advanced solid tumors. In parts 1 and 2, pemigatinib monotherapy had a manageable safety profile and antitumor activity in FGFR-altered tumors. Part 3 (pemigatinib combination therapies) results are presented here. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients received 9, 13.5, or 20 mg oral once-daily pemigatinib on continuous or intermittent schedules with gemcitabine and cisplatin (pemi/gem/cis), docetaxel (pemi/doc), trastuzumab (pemi/tras), pembrolizumab (pemi/pembro), or retifanlimab (pemi/reti) irrespective of whether the tumor was confirmed as FGFR altered. Primary endpoints were safety and pharmacodynamics. Secondary endpoints were investigator-assessed tumor objective response rates (ORRs) and pharmacokinetics (PK). RESULTS: Of 65 enrolled patients (pemi/gem/cis, n = 8; pemi/doc, n = 7; pemi/tras, n = 6; pemi/pembro, n = 26; pemi/reti, n = 18), all discontinued. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were generally consistent with individual drug AEs. Serious and grade ≥3 TEAEs occurred in 0%-85.7% and 33.3%-100.0% of patients across treatment groups, respectively. All pemigatinib combinations demonstrated steady-state PK comparable to monotherapy. Pharmacodynamic effects in all pemigatinib combinations, except pemi/gem/cis, were consistent with monotherapy. Less inhibition of FGFR2α phosphorylation was observed with this combination. ORRs (95% confidence interval) were 37.5% [8.5% to 75.5% (pemi/gem/cis)], 14.3% [0.4% to 57.9% (pemi/doc)], 0% (pemi/tras), 26.9% [11.6% to 47.8% (pemi/pembro)], and 11.1% [1.4% to 34.7% (pemi/reti)]. All groups had instances of tumor shrinkage. ORRs in assessable patients with FGFR rearrangements and mutations were 50% and 33%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Pemigatinib combination therapy showed no unexpected toxicities. PK and pharmacodynamics were mostly consistent with pemigatinib monotherapy. Pemi/gem/cis (37.5%) and pemi/pembro (26.9%) had the highest ORR; most responders had FGFR alterations.

Nutritional Status and Dietary Behaviors of Children with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review.

Children with intellectual or developmental disabilities are susceptible to malnutrition. This systematic review was conducted to assess the nutritional status and dietary behaviors of children with intellectual or developmental disabilities in Saudi Arabia. The target population was children from Saudi Arabia aged 18 years or younger and diagnosed with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Appropriate research studies that were published from inception up to December 2023 were obtained and reviewed. The outcomes of interest, including anthropometric data, laboratory data, dietary intake data, and dietary behaviors data, were collected and organized in relevant tables. The methodological quality and bias risk for the involved studies were evaluated. Out of 286 screened articles, 31 research articles were selected. The review results show that the rates of overweight and obesity were significantly higher among children with intellectual or developmental disabilities compared to typically developing children. The laboratory data revealed that they were more likely to have nutritional deficiencies. Low intake of energy, protein, and several micronutrients is frequently reported among them. Moreover, they are anticipated to have unhealthy dietary behavior. In conclusion, the findings suggested that children with intellectual or developmental disabilities were at higher risk of malnutrition including deploying obesity and nutritional deficiencies. Healthy and balanced nutrition that considers dietary requirements and food preferences is critical to maintaining the optimal development of these children. This review could invite researchers and policy-makers in Saudi Arabia to put more effort into integrating individuals with disability into the healthcare system and community. Further research is required to determine the types of intervention measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of malnutrition. Additional action is needed to monitor the implementation of national policies and programs that target this part of society.

Mapping a sustainable approach: biosynthesis of lactobacilli-silver nanocomposites using whey-based medium for antimicrobial and bioactivity applications.

This study explores a sustainable approach for synthesizing silver nanocomposites (AgNCs) with enhanced antimicrobial and bioactivity using safe Lactobacillus strains and a whey-based medium (WBM). WBM effectively supported the growth of Lactobacillus delbrueckii and Lactobacillus acidophilus, triggering a stress response that led to AgNCs formation. The synthesized AgNCs were characterized using advanced spectroscopic and imaging techniques such as UV‒visible, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, transmission electron (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-Edx). Lb acidophilus-synthesized AgNCs in WBM (had DLS size average 817.2-974.3 ± PDI = 0.441 nm with an average of metal core size 13.32 ± 3.55 nm) exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria such as Escherichia coli (16.47 ± 2.19 nm), Bacillus cereus (15.31 ± 0.43 nm), Clostridium perfringens (25.95 ± 0.03 mm), Enterococcus faecalis (32.34 ± 0.07 mm), Listeria monocytogenes (23.33 ± 0.05 mm), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (13.20 ± 1.76 mm), and filamentous fungi such as Aspergillus brasiliensis (33.46 ± 0.01 mm). In addition, Lb acidophilus-synthesized AgNCs in WBM exhibit remarkable free radical scavenging abilities, suggesting their potential as bioavailable antioxidants. These findings highlight the dual functionality of these biogenic AgNCs, making them promising candidates for applications in both medicine and nutrition.

Serial Post-Operative Radiographs in Surgically Managed Pediatric Supracondylar Humeral Fractures: Are They Always Required?

Objective:  Supracondylar humeral fractures are among the most common pediatric fractures that require surgical intervention when displaced. Recent attention has been directed towards the utilization of serial radiographs in the post-operative period and their effect on decision-making. This study aimed to determine the usefulness of postoperative radiographs early post-operatively, with the goal of determining the optimal frequency for these radiographs. Methods: Pediatric patients who sustained a supracondylar humeral fracture and underwent operative intervention over a 15-year period were included in this study. Data were collected, including the baseline characteristics of the patients, fractures, and operative interventions. In addition, the time until healing, the total number of X-rays before K-wire removal, and postoperative function were evaluated. Results: A total of 122 pediatric patients were included, with a mean age of 5.33 ± 2.93 years. Most fractures were Gartland Type III (74.6%). Most fractures healed at 4 (36.1%) and 3 weeks (35.2%) after surgery. Of the cohort, 94.3% underwent four different x-rays before wire removal, with 4.9% requiring revision surgery. All revision cases were Gartland type 3, and for all cases, the decision to revise was made within three weeks of surgery. Conclusion: Routine post-fixation radiography should not be performed for surgically treated supracondylar humeral fractures before healing. An exception is the Gartland type 3 fracture, for which earlier imaging may be indicated.

Serological investigation of Coxiella burnetii infection (Query fever) in livestock in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia.

Background and Aim: Query fever (Q fever) is an endemic zoonotic disease and ruminants are considered to be the primary source of infection in humans. It is caused by Coxiella burnetii which is an obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen with a worldwide distribution. This study estimated the prevalence of Q fever in livestock with a history of abortion in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. Material and Methods: Sera from 341 camels, 326 sheep, and 121 goats of either sex from various locations (Makkah, Jeddah, AL-Taif, AL-Qunfudah, AL-Laith, and AL-Kamil) were examined using a Q fever indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Among the 788 serum samples, 356 animals had anti-Coxiella burnetii immunoglobulin G antibodies with an overall seroprevalence of 45.4%. Significant differences were observed in seroprevalence between species and locations. Camels had the highest percentage of Q fever-positive sera, with a prevalence of 50.4%, followed by goats (44.6%) and sheep (36.8%), with a high significant difference between animals (p = 0.000). The prevalence was significantly higher in Makkah (65.4%) than in Jeddah (28.8%). Conclusion: C. burnetii infection is prevalent in agricultural animals, especially camels maintained at livestock farms in Makkah province. Therefore, these animals considered as the main source of Q fever infections in Saudi Arabia, which is also a reason for the abortion in these animals. Therefore, there is an urgent need for further studies on Q fever infection with interventional approaches for prevention and control.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Objectives To determine the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and associated factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in different regions around the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between 2022 and 2023. The questionnaire was distributed among patients who underwent LSG at different periods, ranging from six months to more than two years. The questionnaire comprised a risk factor assessment and the GERD-Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) questionnaire. Results A total of 387 participants with a mean age of 35.7±10.95 were included. The study included 225 females (58.1%) and 162 males (41.9%). The mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) was 44.36±8.07 kg/m2, which decreased to 28.78±6.31 kg/m2 postoperatively. Notably, dissatisfaction with general health surged from 17 (24.6%) preoperatively to 165 (42.6%) postoperatively. Despite no significant difference in GERD-HRQL scores in the group who had preoperative symptoms, 282 (72.9%) reported experiencing heartburn, and 289 (74.7%) reported bloating postoperatively. Postoperatively, 203 (52.5%) reported improved quality of life. Moreover, changes in BMI were strongly correlated with heartburn, dysphagia, odynophagia, and bloating. The postoperative prevalence of GERD was 355 (91.7%), with 318 (82.2%) of participants reporting new-onset symptoms. Sex (P=0.013), age (P=0.024), and hypercholesterolemia (P=0.046) were significantly associated with postoperative GERD severity. Conclusions The majority of participants developed GERD symptoms following surgery, with a significant proportion reporting new-onset symptoms. Sex, age, and hypercholesterolemia have emerged as significant factors for postoperative GERD severity.

Inspiratory muscle training impact on respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, and quality of life in children with chest burn: A randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: Respiratory muscle function is compromised in children recovering from chest wall burns, which potentially leads to more impact on exercise capacity and quality of life. This study investigates the effects of an inspiratory muscle training intervention accompanied with a pulmonary rehabilitation program on respiratory muscle strength, lung function, functional capacity, and quality of life in chest burned children. METHODS: Forty children with burns, aged from 10 to 18 years old and total body surface area of 30% to 50%, were randomly allocated to the inspiratory muscle training group (IMT- G: n = 20) or control group (CG: n = 20). They received IMT plus pulmonary rehabilitation or pulmonary rehabilitation with sham IMT, respectively for eight weeks. The outcomes were the respiratory muscle strength measured by maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP); lung functions (FEV1, FVC and FEV1/FVC ratio); functional capacity as well as Pediatric Quality of Life to measure physical and psychosocial functioning. outcome measures were assessed at before and after intervention (after eight weeks). RESULTS: Based on the pre-intervention assessments, we found no significant difference between both groups (p > 0.05). Significant post-intervention differences were reported between both groups in MIP (P = .003), MEP (P = .017), FVC (P = .001), FEV1 (P = .007), FEV1/FVC ratio (P = .028), functional capacity (P = .003), physical domain of QoL (P = .006) and psychological domain of QoL (P = .002) in favor of the IMT group. CONCLUSIONS: Eight weeks of inspiratory muscle training combined with pulmonary rehabilitation program improved children with chest burns' respiratory muscles strength, lung functions, functional capacity, and quality of life. Inspiratory muscle training may be employed in burn rehabilitation programs. It is a safe and effective therapy in chest burned children.

Rigor and reproducibility in human brain organoid research: Where we are and where we need to go.

Human brain organoid models have emerged as a promising tool for studying human brain development and function. These models preserve human genetics and recapitulate some aspects of human brain development, while facilitating manipulation in an in vitro setting. Despite their potential to transform biology and medicine, concerns persist about their fidelity. To fully harness their potential, it is imperative to establish reliable analytic methods, ensuring rigor and reproducibility. Here, we review current analytical platforms used to characterize human forebrain cortical organoids, highlight challenges, and propose recommendations for future studies to achieve greater precision and uniformity across laboratories.

Development of silver-doped copper oxide and chitosan nanocomposites for enhanced antimicrobial activities.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a significant and pressing public health concern, posing serious challenges to effectively preventing and treating persistent diseases. Despite various efforts made in recent years to address this problem, the global trends of AMR continue to escalate without any indication of decline. As AMR is well-known for antibiotics, developing new materials such as metal containing compounds with different mechanisms of action is crucial to effectively address this challenge. Copper, silver, and chitosan in various forms have demonstrated significant biological activities and hold promise for applications in medicine and biotechnology. Exploring the biological properties of these nanoparticles is essential for innovative therapeutic approaches in treating bacterial and fungal infections, cancer, and other diseases. To this end, the present study aimed to synthesize silver@copper oxide (Ag@CuO) nanoparticles and its chitosan nanocomposite (Chi-Ag@CuO) to investigate their antimicrobial efficacy. Various established spectroscopic and microscopic methods were employed for characterization purposes, encompassing scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Subsequently, the antimicrobial activity of the nanoparticles was assessed through MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration), MBC (minimum bactericidal concentration), and well-disk diffusion assays against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Candida albicans. The size of the CuO-NPs, Ag@CuO, and Chi-Ag@CuO NPs was found to be 70-120 nm with a spherical shape and an almost uniform distribution. The nanocomposites were found to possess a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 5 µg/mL and a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 250 µg/mL. Moreover, these nanocomposites generated varying clear inhibition zones, with diameters ranging from a minimum of 9 ± 0.5 mm to a maximum of 25 ± 0.5 mm. Consequently, it is evident that the amalgamation of copper-silver-chitosan nanoparticles has exhibited noteworthy antimicrobial properties in the controlled laboratory environment, surpassing the performance of other types of nanoparticles.

Physical Analysis and Mathematical Modeling of the Hydrogen Storage Process in the MmNi4.2Mn0.8 Compound.

The results of an experimental and mathematical study into the MmNi4.2Mn0.8 compound's hydrogen storage properties are presented in the present research. Plotting and discussion of the experimental isotherms (P-C-T) for different starting temperatures (288 K, 298 K, 308 K, and 318 K) were carried out first. Then, the enthalpy and entropy of formation (ΔH0, ΔS0) were deduced from the plot of van't Hoff. Following that, the P-C-T were contrasted with a mathematical model developed via statistical physics modeling. The steric and energetic parameters, such as the number of the receiving sites (n1, n2), their densities (Nm1, Nm2), and the energy parameters (P1, P2) of the system, were calculated thanks to the excellent agreement between the numerical and experimental results. Therefore, plotting and discussing these parameters in relation to temperature preceded their application in determining the amount of hydrogen in each type of site per unit of metal ([H/M]1, [H/M]2) as well as for the entire system [H/M] versus temperature and pressure besides the absorption energies associated with each kind of site (ΔE1, ΔE2) and the thermodynamic functions (free energy, Gibbs energy, and entropy) that control the absorption reaction.

Mitochondrial DNA variants and microbiota: An experimental strategy to identify novel therapeutic potential in chronic inflammatory diseases.

We previously demonstrated that mice carrying natural mtDNA variants of the FVB/NJ strain (m.7778 G>T in the mt-Atp8 gene in mitochondrial complex V), namely C57BL/6 J-mtFVB/NJ (B6-mtFVB), exhibited (i) partial protection from experimental skin inflammatory diseases in an anti-murine type VII collagen antibody-induced skin inflammation model and psoriasiform dermatitis model; (ii) significantly altered metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids, according to targeted metabolomics of liver, skin and lymph node samples; and (iii) a differential composition of the gut microbiota according to bacterial 16 S rRNA gene sequencing of stool samples compared to wild-type C57BL/6 J (B6) mice. To further dissect these disease-contributing factors, we induced an experimental antibody-induced skin inflammatory disease in gnotobiotic mice. We performed shotgun metagenomic sequencing of caecum contents and untargeted metabolomics of liver, CD4+ T cell, and caecum content samples from conventional B6-mtFVB and B6 mice. We identified D-glucosamine as a candidate mediator that ameliorated disease severity in experimental antibody-induced skin inflammation by modulating immune cell function in T cells, neutrophils and macrophages. Because mice carrying mtDNA variants of the FVB/NJ strain show differential disease susceptibility to a wide range of experimental diseases, including diet-induced atherosclerosis in low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout mice and collagen antibody-induced arthritis in DBA/1 J mice, this experimental approach is valuable for identifying novel therapeutic options for skin inflammatory conditions and other chronic inflammatory diseases to which mice carrying specific mtDNA variants show differential susceptibility.

In-vitro Cytotoxicity Investigations for Phytoconstituents of Saudi Medicinal Plants With Putative Ocular Effects.

BACKGROUND: Metastatic secondary ocular tumors spread from systemic malignancies, including breast cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of extracts from 5 medicinal plants native to Saudi Arabia. METHODS: For preliminary activity screening, cytotoxicity using the MTT assay and selectivity index determinations were made for medicinal plant extracts against various cancer cell-lines. The most promising extract was subjected to GC-MS analysis to determine the phytochemical composition. Clonogenic assays were performed using the most promising extract to confirm the initial results. Finally, western blot analysis was used to determine the modulation in expression of survivin and P27 suppressor genes in the human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7) cell-line to understand the potential mechanistic properties of the active plant extract. RESULTS: The 5 plant extracts showed various cytotoxic activity levels using IC50. The most active extract was found to be the leaves of Capparis spinosa L. (BEP-07 extract) against the MCF7 breast cancer cell-line (IC50 = 3.61 ± 0.99 µg/ml) and selectivity index of 1.17 compared to the normal human fetal lung fibroblast (MRC5) cells. BEP-07 extract showed a dose dependent clonogenic effect against the MCF7 colonies which was comparable with the effect of doxorubicin. BEP-07 extract caused a significant decrease of survivin and increase in P27 expression compared to control GAPDH at its highest dose (14 µg/ml). The GC-MS chromatogram of Capparis spinosa L. (BEP-07 extract) revealed the existence of 145 compounds, belonging to the diverse classes of phytoconstituents. Fatty acids and their derivatives represent 15.4%, whilst octadecanoic acid, 2,3-dihydroxypropyl ester was the principal component (7.9%) detected. CONCLUSION: Leaves of Capparis spinosa L. (BEP-07 extract) exhibited a significant cytotoxic effect particularly against breast cancer cells. It exhibited this effect through survivin inhibition and via P27 upregulation. The detected phytoconstituents in the plant extract might be involved in tested cytotoxic activity, while further investigations are required to complete the drug candidate profile.

Unlocking the Power of Influenza Vaccines for Pediatric Population: A Narrative Review.

The flu, often known as influenza, is a dangerous public health hazard for the pediatric population. Immunization is essential for decreasing the burden of the disease and avoiding complications related to influenza. However, the immunogenicity, efficacy, and safety of different influenza vaccines in children warrant careful evaluation. The purpose of this narrative review is to give a summary of the existing literature on the immunogenicity, efficacy, and safety of several vaccinations against influenza viruses in children. The review incorporates evidence from a range of studies focusing on the outcomes of interest. Immunogenicity studies have shown that influenza vaccines induce a robust immune response in children, primarily through neutralizing antibodies' formation. However, variations in vaccine composition influence the duration and magnitude of immune responses. Safety is a crucial consideration in pediatric vaccination. In children, influenza vaccinations have generally shown a high safety profile, with mild and temporary side effects being the most common. Vaccinations against influenza have shown a modest level of efficacy in avoiding hospitalizations linked to influenza, laboratory-confirmed influenza infections, and serious consequences in children. Live attenuated vaccines have shown higher effectiveness against matched strains compared to inactivated vaccines. In conclusion, this narrative review highlights that receiving influenza vaccination in children aged six to 47 months is very important. While different vaccines exhibit varying immunogenicity, safety profiles, and effectiveness, they all contribute to reducing the burden of influenza among children. Future research should focus on optimizing vaccine strategies, improving vaccine coverage, and evaluating long-term protection.

Optimization and Detergent Compatibility of Protease Produced from Aspergillus oryzae by Utilizing Agro Wastes.

The biotechnological process called solid-state fermentation (SSF) was applied for hyper production of protease by using a fungal strain called Aspergillus oryzae. From screening of 9 different local substrates (peanut shell, wheat bran, guava leaves, sugar cane bagasse, rice polish, wheat straw, corn straw, reed grass, and rice straw), peanut shells serve as the best substrates for protease production under optimized cultured conditions. The varying physiochemical parameters such as pH (2-9.5), temperature (30-52 °C), incubation time (1-10 days), inoculum size (1-8 mL), moisture level (20-125%), and substrate concentration (1-7 g) were optimized by response surface methodology (RSM). The highest activity of protease was recorded to be 1101.778 U/mL at 660 nm using peanut shell was optimum at pH 8, temperature 52 °C, incubation time 8 days, inoculum size 2 mL, moisture level 20%, and substrate concentration 2 g. The crude form of enzymes produced were further purified through ammonium sulfate precipitation, dialysis, and gel filtration chromatography. Then, purified enzymes were characterized at different pH, temperature, and incubation time. For characterization of purified protease, pH, temperature, and incubation time were 8, 52 °C, and 8 days for peanut shell and was done by one factor at a time method. Hence, isolated enzymes were alkaline in nature, i.e., alkaline proteases. Then, protease produced from peanut shells was applied to locally available detergents to increase their catalytic activity for strain removal. At last, the final results were interpreted in the form of 3D surface and contour plots using Microsoft Excel 2013 and Minitab 17 software. In conclusion, the utilization of A. oryzae and peanut shell as the substrate in the biotechnological process of SSF demonstrated successful hyper production of alkaline protease. The optimized conditions resulted in high enzyme activity and showcased the potential application of the isolated enzymes in improving the catalytic activity of locally available detergents.

An analysis of conventional and modern packaging approaches for cut flowers: a review article.

Fresh-cut flowers are considered to be one of the most delicate and challenging commercial crops. It is important to take into consideration how to minimize loss during storage and transportation when preserving cut flowers. Many impinging (bad effect) forces can interact to shorten the flowers' vase life. In the flower industry, effective methods need to be developed to extend freshly cut flowers' life. Fresh-cut flowers' vase life can be shortened by a variety of interlocking causes. The flower industry must develop new techniques to extend the flowers' vase lifespan. This review provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on classical, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), and controlled atmosphere packaging (CAP) displays. According to this review, a promising packaging technique for fresh flowers can be achieved through smart packaging. A smart package is one that incorporates new technology to increase its functionality. This combines active packaging, nanotechnology, and intelligence. This technology makes it easier to keep an eye on the environmental variables that exist around the packaged flowers to enhance their quality. This article offers a comprehensive overview of creative flower-saving packaging ideas that reduce flower losses and assist growers in handling more effectively their flower inventory. To guarantee the quality of flowers throughout the marketing chain, innovative packaging techniques and advanced packaging technologies should be adopted to understand various package performances. This will provide the consumer with cut flowers of standard quality. Furthermore, sustainable packaging is achieved with circular packaging. We can significantly reduce packaging waste's environmental impact by designing reused or recyclable packaging.