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Abstract Background Radiation shielding in radiology has historically been achieved with lead; however, there has been an increasing demand for radiation shielding to be more environmentally friendly. Barium has shown promise as a substitute in many radiology applications. This study aims to investigate a barium sulphate shield in protecting the thyroid and the eye lens during panoramic radiography. Methods During a simulated panoramic examination, an anthropomorphic phantom and a solid-state detector measured the radiation dose to the surface thyroid and the eye lens. The measurements were taken using no shield and a barium sulphate shield. A Welch's T-test was employed to compute the shield's effect on radiation. Two radiologists assessed the image quality with and without the thyroid shields. Results The dose reduction was between 66 and 75% for the barium shield at the thyroid. The dose reduction ranged between 15 and 61% in the eye region. Images using a barium shield were deemed adequate for diagnostic interpretation. Conclusions Barium shields effectively reduce the radiation dose in the thyroid region during panoramic radiography without degrading image quality. The dose reduction depends on the tube voltage and the area of interest.

Background: Ultrasound transit time spectroscopy (UTTS) has been introduced previously to characterize the propagation of ultrasound waves through complex structures such as cancellous bone to estimate bone quality and quantity. UTTS describes the propagation of ultrasonic waves through a medium with two components of differing sound speeds (e.g., bone and marrow) as a set of parallel sonic rays. The transit time spectrum (TTS) is derived via the digital deconvolution of the input and output signals. Aim: To investigate the dependence of TTS upon the type of ultrasound input wave, including four different 1 MHz ultrasound waves (pulse, chirp, tone-burst, and continuous). Methods: The presence of ischemic lesions was detected by the MDCT, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), and non-contrast flat detector computed tomography (FDCT). The study selected the AIS patients with hyperacute stroke for less than 6 hours from July 2021 to August 2022. The CTA of cervical arteries was performed in order to determine stroke subtypes.Ten replica 3D- acrylic step-wedge models with different structure complexity were investigated. For each model and using the four types of input waves, TTS was derived and compared with calculated TTS based on the parallel sonic ray concept. Results: The results showed coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.994, 0.999, 0.90, and 1 for pulse, chirp, tone-burst and continuous signals respectively. Furthermore, solid volume fraction (SVF) was derived via TTS (TTS-SVF) and compared with the geometrically calculated SVF data of the models, yielding coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.941, 0.968, 0.489, and 0.981 for pulse, chirp, tone-burst and continuous waves, respectively. Therefore, the continuous wave provided a more accurate prediction of TTS and SVF, followed by chirp, then pulse waves. Conclusion: This study adds to the body of research supporting the validity and reliability of UTTS, as a potentially promising technique to provide a reliable in vivo estimate of bone mineral density.

This cohort study included 36 eyes of 21 patients with high myopia treated with angle supported phakic intraocular lens (pIOL). Endothelial cell density (ECD) at baseline, 6mo and 3y were 3017±296, 2775±265 and 2558±299 cells/mm2 respectively. ECD loss at 6mo was 7.2% and annual ECD loss was 3% over 36mo. Corrected distance visual acuity at 36mo was 0.4 logMAR or better in 32 (88.9%) eyes. Intraocular pressure did not change (P=0.9). No eyes developed cataract, retinal detachment or pupillary distortion. Angle supported pIOL gives good visual outcome. Endothelial cell loss should be monitored.

Abstract 17 Y-chromosomal STRs which are part of the Yfiler Amplification Kit were investigated in 493 unrelated Pakistani individuals belonging to the Punjabi, Sindhi, Baloch, and Pathan ethnic groups. We have assessed the forensic parameters and population genetic structure for each group. Among the 493 unrelated individuals from four ethnic groups (128 Baloch, 122 Pathan, 108 Punjabi, and 135 Sindhi), 82 haplotypes were observed with haplotype diversity (HD) of 0.9906 in Baloch, 102 haplotypes with HD value of 0.9957 in Pathans, 80 haplotypes with HD value of 0.9924 in Punjabi, and 105 haplotypes with HD value of 0.9945 in the Sindhi population. The overall gene diversity for Baloch, Pathan, Punjabi, and Sindhi populations was 0.6367, 0.6479, 0.6657, and 0.6112, respectively. The results had shown us that Pakistani populations do not have a unique set of genes but share the genetic affinity with regional (Central Asia and Northern India) populations. The observed low gene diversity (heterozygosity) values may be because of endogamy trends and this observation is equally supported by the results of forensic parameters which are mostly static across 4 combinations (minimal STRs, extended 11 Y-STRs, Powerplex 12 Y System, and Yfiler 17 Y-STRs) of STRs in these four populations.

Background Xibe is the fifth largest minority population of Liaoning province. Predominately they live in Liaoning province (69.52%), followed by Xinjiang (18.06%), Heilongjiang (3.99%), Jilin (1.63%) and Inner Mongolia provinces (1.57%). Aim To provide an updated and precise population database on an extended set of Y STRs not available before and explore the forensic characteristics of 26 Y chromosomal STRs. Subjects & methods In this study, we genotyped 406 unrelated Xibe male individuals from Liaoning province using Goldeneye® 26Y System kit and calculated the forensic parameters of these 26 Y STRs loci. Results All haplotypes generated for 406 Xibe samples using Goldeneye® 26Y kit were unique with a discrimination capacity (DC) of 1. On restricting the haplotypes to the Y-filer® set of 17 Y-STRs, we observed 392 haplotypes. Among them 93.53% (380) were unique with a DC of 0.9655 and haplotype diversity (HD) of 0.9998, showing high discrimination power of the extended set of markers in this population. Allelic frequencies ranged from 0.0024 to 0.7684 across 26 Y STRs loci. DYS385 showed the highest gene diversity (0.9691) among all markers. Conclusion According to pairwise RST genetic distances among Xibe populations from China, the Liaoning Xibe population showed the closest genetic distance (0.0035) followed by Xinjiang Xibe population (0.0218). Multidimensional scaling (MDS) analysis among Xibe and 29 other Chinese populations showed that local populations such as Manchu from Liaoning and Han from Beijing had a close affinity while Tibetans from Aba, China, were most distant from Xibe populations. Moreover, 12 individuals showed a null allele at DYS448 in Xibe population samples. We submitted Y-STRs data in the Y-Chromosome Haplotype Reference Database (YHRD) for future forensic and other usage.

Abstract Background Khat leaves contain the alkaloid cathinone. Research shows that khat might provoke toxicity, mutagenicity, as well as carcinogenicity. Methods Two groups were identified as khat abusers and were categorized by abuse time and diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Here, 41 participants from Group 2 were short-term khat users, and 42 participants were long-term khat users. The control group included 30 healthy individuals. The coding exons included nine cancer-related genes and were analysed. The histopathological research was conducted with H&E staining along with the TP53 protein expression by implementing immunohistochemical analyses. Results Here, 41 short-term khat users carried seven somatic mutations in four out of nine cancer-related genes: 29/41(70.73%) ARID1A, 24/41(58.53%) MLH1, 34/41(82.92%) PIK3CA and 36/41(87.80%) TP53. The 42 long-term khat users incorporated nine somatic mutations in five out of nin ecancer-related genes: 40/42(95.23%) ARID1A, 36/42(85.71%) ARID2, 29/42(69.04%) PIK3CA, 27/42(64.28%) MLH1, and 35/42(83.33%) TP53. Every khat user had somatic mutations related to OSCC affecting the gingiva and the lower lip. TP53 protein expression was confirmed in all immunohistochemical oral tests. Carcinoma was also positive in the histopathological analysis. Conclusions Khat is a mutagenic and carcinogenic plant that provoked OSCC among short-term khat users (15 years of use).

Fine-scale patterns of population genetic structure and diversity of ethnolinguistically diverse populations are important for biogeographical ancestry inference, kinship testing, and development and validation of new kits focused on forensic personal identification. Analyses focused on forensic markers and genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data can provide new insights into the origin, admixture processes, and forensic characteristics of targeted populations. Qiang people had a large sample size among Tibeto-Burmanspeaking populations, which widely resided in the middle latitude of the Tibetan Plateau. However, their genetic structure and forensic features have remained uncharacterized because of the paucity of comprehensive genetic analyses. Here, we first developed and validated the forensic performance of the AGCU-Y30 Y-short tandem repeats (STR) panel, which contains slowly and moderately mutating Y-STRs, and then we conducted comprehensive population genetic analyses based on Y-STRs and genome-wide SNPs to explore the admixture history of Qiang people and their neighbors. The validated results of this panel showed that the new Y-STR kit was sensitive and robust enough for forensic applications. Haplotype diversity (HD) ranging from 0.9932 to 0.9996 and allelic frequencies ranging from 0.001946 to 0.8326 in 514 Qiang people demonstrated that all included markers were highly polymorphic in Tibeto-Burman people. Population genetic analyses based on Y-STRs [RST, FST, multidimensional scaling (MDS) analysis, neighboring-joining (NJ) tree, principal component analysis (PCA), and median-joining network (MJN)] revealed that the Qiang people harbored a paternally close relationship with lowland Tibetan-Yi corridor populations. Furthermore, we conducted a comprehensive population admixture analysis among modern and ancient Eurasian populations based on genome-wide shared SNPs. We found that the Qiang people were a genetically admixed population and showed closest relationship with Tibetan and Neolithic Yellow River farmers. Admixture modeling showed that Qiang people shared the primary ancestry related to Tibetan, supporting the hypothesis of common origin between Tibetan and Qiang people from North China.

Abstract Background The preventive and therapeutic medical utilization of this plant is an age-long practice across the globe. This study aimed to validate the impact of dark purple blossoms of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) aqueous extract at low temperature (0 °C) mediated mitochondrial fission contributed to induced apoptosis in human breast cancer cells. Methods Fresh blossoms were extracted at low temperature (0 °C) using a watery solvent. Human MCF7 breast cancer cells were then treated with 3 separate fluctuated concentrations of 0, 50, 150 and 250 µg/mL for 24 and 48 h. Results The outcomes demonstrated the presence of anthocyanins, anthraquinones, tannins, reducing sugars, glycosides, proteins, amino acids, flavonoids and volatile oils and nonappearance of Terpinoids and alkaloids. Contrastingly, frail presence of steroids in basil blossoms aqueous concentrate was noted. In addition, the results from a phytochemical subjective examination of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) blossoms aqueous extract demonstrated that most of the credited natural impacts containing more remarkable contents of antioxidants and anticancer compounds in basil blossoms aqueous extract. Moreover, the restraint of glucose take-up was alleviated mediated by a dose-dependent manner in MCF7 cells with basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) blossoms aqueous extract inducted for 24 h, resulting in mitochondrial fission. Conclusion This is the first study that shows the impact of the aqueous extract of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) blossoms was extracted at low temperature (0℃/6 h) underlined high amounts of flavonoids and phenolic compounds bearing more anticancer and antioxidant activities compared to another aqueous extract (using boiled water solvent) and alcoholic extracts.

Tibetans are considered an East Asian ethnic group and primarily live in the high Tibetan plateau, the western Sichuan and Yunnan mountains of central and southern China, and areas throughout the Himalayas and around the Tibetan plateau. These people exhibit rare molecular machinery that allows them to adapt to hypoxic environments in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and make them a potential candidate for providing insights related to medical genetic, molecular medicine and human population studies. In the current study, we have genotyped 549 individuals with Investigator Argus X-12 Kit. For 12 X-STRs, a total of 174 unique alleles were found, among them DXS10134 and DXS10135 were the most polymorphic loci. All of the loci were in Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium (HWE). The numbers of observed haplotypes in Highlander Tibetans males were 161,112, 96 and 108, respectively, whereas haplotype diversities (HD) were 0.9959, 0.9880, 0.9809 and 0.9873, respectively. The combined discrimination power for males (PDm) was 0.999 999 99701 and for females (PDf) was 0.999 999 999 999 9958. This study represents an extensive report on X chromosomal STR markers variation in the Highlander Tibetans population for forensic applications and population genetic studies.

Background: Genetic blood disorders are common in Arab countries which are related to many physical and mental disorders. Premarital counseling has been one of the strongest ways to prevent hereditary diseases. It can provide a capability to intervene according to identified risks, vaccinations, genetic consulting, nutrition, consulting regarding behavior and advice regarding contraception. This study aimed to assess university students' knowledge, attitude and practice of pre-marital counseling (PMC) in king Khalid University. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at King Khalid University in Abha city from May to August 2018. The students were selected using two stage stratified cluster sampling technique (medical and non-medical). A total sample of 541 students were included. A structured questionnaire with close-ended questions was designed by the authors following an extensive review of the literature on knowledge, practice, and attitude of premarital screening program. The questionnaire was developed in English and then translated to Arabic by experts at the College of Medicine. Results: A total sample of 541students were involved with ages ranged from 18 years to 27 years old and 56.6% at medical colleges. Exact 73.4% of the students were aware of PMC and 95.2% reported its importance. 96.5% of the students reported their welling to do PMC on marriage and 72.1% see that it should be mandatory. Conclusions: Nearly three out of each four students had good awareness level regarding PMC. Most of the students have a positive attitude towards PMS and their readiness to adopt the counseling before marriage.

Background and objectives: Subclinical hypothyroidism is an asymptomatic condition with normal thyroxin and raised thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism in primary health care (PHC) settings in Riyadh and explore the relationship of TSH level with age, gender, family history, body mass index, and co-morbid conditions. Subjects and methods: A cross-sectional study of adult visitors to nine satellites PHC clinics in military housing in Riyadh was carried out. TSH concentration and free T4 levels were measured. Data were collected by nurses and physicians during routine clinical practice in primary care. Descriptive analysis was performed on all variables in study, and relationships were explored using chi-square, t-test, analysis of variance, and linear regression. Results: A total of 340 out of 394 participants in the study gave blood samples. Subclinical hyperthyroidism was identified in 2.1% (p = .001) and subclinical hypothyroidism in 10.3% (p = .001) of the PHC visitors. TSH levels were found to be significantly higher (p = .047) in elderly population of ≥60 years and those with family history of thyroid disease. Non-significant upward trends were noted in TSH levels with hyperlipidemia and increasing blood pressure. No overt hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism was found in our study sample. Conclusion: Subclinical hypothyroidism has a prevalence of 10% of adults visiting PHC’s. TSH levels are higher in the elderly, which warrants screening of those aged 60 years and above.

AbstractPurpose:We aim to evaluate the outcome of flexible ureterorenoscopy (F-URS) with a holmium laser in managing stone-bearing caliceal diverticula as a minimally invasive option.Patients and Methods:We retrospectively reviewed the records of 38 patients who underwent F-URS using a holmium laser from 2003 to 2009 for symptomatic stone-bearing caliceal diverticula. The presenting symptoms were renal colic, urinary tract infection, or hematuria. F-URS was used in 30 (78.9%) patients as an alternative after the failure of shockwave lithotropsy (SWL). F-URS was repeated twice for two patients. In the first patient, the indication was uncompleted fragmentation of the stone. In the second patient, it was because of failure to identify the diverticulum. The follow-up visit ranged from 4 to 6 weeks with plain radiography of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder and either renal ultrasonography or noncontrast CT.Results:Patients who were included in the study were 38: 22 women and 16 men (mean age 45.7 years; range 18–72 years). Post–F-URS, 21 (55.3%) patients were rendered stone free (SF), 10 (26.3%) patients had clinically insignificant residual fragments (less than 4 mm) (CIRF), and a residual fragment (RF) was found in seven (18.4%) patients. The success rate was considered as SF or CIRF, which was obtained in 31 (81.6%) patients. In total, 34 (90%) patients were symptom free after the procedure.Conclusion:F-URS using a holmium laser is a very effective, minimally invasive technique. It could be the best option in managing stone-bearing caliceal diverticula, especially for those patients in whom there was SWL failure. The development of the actively deflectable ureteroscope with miniaturization allowed us to obtain a high success rate, low morbidity, and a brief hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effect of Rosa moschata (R. moschata) extract on haloperidol-induced Parkinson’s disease (PD) in rats. Methods: Haloperidol (1 mg/kg) was given to rats intraperitoneally for 3 weeks for induction of PD. R. moschata extract (150, 300 and 600 mg/kg) was administered orally for 21 days. The neuroprotective role of R. moschata leaf extract in PD was explored by performing neurobehavioral tests and RT-PCR analysis and measuring neurotransmitters and oxidative stress biomarkers. Results: An improvement in motor functions and muscle strength was observed in PD rats treated with R. moschata extract. The levels of dopamine, serotonin, noradrenaline, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase were significantly increased (P < 0.001), whereas acetylcholinesterase and malondialdehyde levels were markedly decreased by treatment with R. moschata extract (P < 0.001). The extract also markedly downregulated the mRNA expressions of IL-1β, α-synuclein, IL-1α, and TNF-α in brain tissue. Moreover, histopathological analysis indicated that neurofibrillary tangles and plaques were noticeably decreased in a dose-dependent manner in PD rats treated with R. moschata extract. Conclusions: R. moschata extract alleviates haloperidol-induced PD in rats by reducing oxidative stress and neurodegeneration. It may be used for management and treatment of PD. However, additional studies are required to confirm its efficacy and molecular mechanisms.

IntroductionThis study investigated the prevalence of sleep disturbances among people living with type 2 diabetes in Saudi Arabia.MethodsA four-stage sampling method was used to recruit 479 participants from various parts of the country. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect demographic, sleep disruption, and related clinical characteristics. Data analysis included reporting sleep disturbance prevalence as frequency and percentage, chi-square tests to examine categorical variable associations, and multiple logistic regression analysis to identify independent factors associated with sleep disturbances.ResultsThe data showed that most participants were male (59.3%), married (78.5%), and Diploma/ Bachelor’s degree holders (41.5%). The study found that most respondents had subjective sleep quality issues, with 55.3% of Sleep Latency participants having trouble falling asleep, 62.4% having trouble sleeping, 65.1% experiencing serious sleep efficiency impairment, 85.2% reporting sleep difficulties, 88.5% using sleep medication without difficulty, 5.4% having moderate difficulty, and 6.1% having considerable difficulties. The Global Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) showed that all participants had sleep problems. Marital status, nationality, HBA1C, education, region, comorbidity, and monthly income were significantly associated with sleep disturbance characteristics.ConclusionThe study concluded that diabetes itself can increase the risk of sleep problems, as it is associated with various sleep-related issues such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome. Encouraging social support within the realm of healthcare services holds significance in reducing the occurrence of inadequate sleep. For individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus, managing their blood sugar levels effectively is crucial for enhancing the quality of their sleep. Furthermore, engaging in regular physical activity is essential for preventing subpar sleep quality.

Infection prevention and control (IPC) standards have a unique role in controlling infection transmission. In Saudi Arabia, every healthcare facility is required to establish an IPC program to identify and reduce the risk of infection acquisition and transmission. This study aimed to estimate adherence to IPC measures after the COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Najran City, Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs in Najran City during the period of May to August 2023. A self-administered questionnaire was given to HCWs consisting of three parts: demographic data, profile of healthcare facility and healthcare professional regarding infection control, and questionnaire to assess the adherence of HCWs regarding infection control measures. The study recruited 580 HCWs, of whom 57.6% were males, and 46.6% were aged between 31 and 40 years. The overall mean adherence score was 103.2±9.71 out of 150 points. Accordingly, 88.4% were classified as having moderate adherence, 10.2% were good, and only 1.4% were classified as having poor adherence. Some of the factors associated with increased adherence to IPC measures, include being female, being a nurse, being a practitioner, working in the hospital emergency department, and having a recognized antimicrobial stewardship program team/unit at a healthcare facility. There was satisfactory adherence among HCWs regarding infection prevention and control measures. Being a female, a nurse, a practitioner, working in a hospital emergency department, being a staff of a non-MOH (Ministry of Health) hospital, and having a recognized antimicrobial stewardship program team/unit were identified as significant predictors of increased adherence. IPC measures can be optimized by setting up institutional IPC teams, necessary PPE, and periodic provision of IPC training.

Background: We investigated chitosan’s protective effects against tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ)-induced toxicity in adult male rats, focusing on cognitive functions and oxidative stress in the brain, liver, and kidneys. Methods: Rats were divided into four groups (n = 8/group): (1) Control, (2) Chitosan only, (3) TBHQ only, and (4) Chitosan + TBHQ. Results: TBHQ exposure led to significant cognitive impairments and increased oxidative stress, marked by elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels. Behavioral tests, including the Morris Water Maze (MWM) as well as Passive Avoidance Learning (PAL) tasks, confirmed memory and learning deficits in the TBHQ group. Histopathological analysis showed damage in the brain, liver, and kidney tissues of TBHQ-exposed rats. Chitosan treatment significantly mitigated these effects, reducing oxidative stress markers and preserving tissue integrity. These findings suggest that chitosan’s antioxidant properties may provide a therapeutic benefit against TBHQ-induced neurotoxicity and organ damage. Conclusions: These findings suggest that chitosan exerts potent neuroprotective effects, potentially through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and could serve as a therapeutic agent against TBHQ-induced toxicity.

BackgroundSelf-efficacy is a popular psychological concept that refers to an individual’s perception or belief in his ability to perform specific actions. This study aimed to assess the predictive value of self-efficacy, measured using the Self-Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease 6-Item Scale (SEM6S) questionnaire, for diabetes management and overall well-being in patients with diabetes.Subject and methodsAn anonymous online cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the self-efficacy of diabetic patients in the Asser region of Saudi Arabia. The participants were requested to upload their most recent glycated hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) measurements taken in the last three months, which helped in the accurate categorization of their diabetes as either controlled or uncontrolled. We used the valid Arabic version of the SEM6S and WHO-5 well-being questionnaires to assess patient self-efficacy and well-being.ResultsA cohort of 342 patients was enrolled in the study, 67.25% were married, their mean age was 43.17 ± 17.61 years, and 52.69% had university-level or higher education. Among the participants, 46.0% exhibited well-being, while 24.9% reported poor well-being, including 9.4% who were identified as experiencing depression. The mean scores of self-efficacy and well-being were significantly higher among those with controlled diabetes versus uncontrolled diabetes (40.86 ± 13.26 vs. 36.48 ± 13.26) and (67.35 ± 21.22 vs. 60.93 ± 25.05), respectively. The predictors of glycemic control were self-efficacy [Odds ratio (OR)=1.03 (95%CI, 1.01-1.06, P=0.002], having other chronic diseases [OR=3.25 (95%CI), P

IntroductionThe consumption of soft and energy drinks poses a significant risk for non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. Studies in Saudi Arabia have reported elevated consumption of soft/energy drinks, but nation-wide data is not available. Therefore, this study aims to explore the prevalence of soft and energy drinks consumption and its associated factors among a representative sample of Saudi adults.MethodsThe present research is a secondary data analysis of the 2021 Sharik Diet and Health National Survey (SDHNS). Current analysis used data on socio-demographics, anthropometrics, physical activity, and soft and energy drink consumption. The frequency of soft and energy drinks consumption is assessed on a weekly basis.ResultsOf the 5,194 Saudi adults, 3,928 were analyzed. Overall, 67% consumed soft drinks weekly, while 30% consumed energy drinks weekly. In multiple logistic regression, consumption of either soft drinks or energy drinks was associated with males, a younger age, lower income, and lower physical activity. Individuals with overweight or obesity were less likely to consume energy drinks [OR (95%CI): 0.83 (0.71, 0.99) and 0.73 (0.60, 0.90), respectively] than those with healthy weight. However, education level was not associated with either soft or energy drink consumption. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions designed to reduce soft and energy drinks consumption in Saudi adults.

Background and Objectives: Screening for type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) aims to identify asymptomatic individuals who may be at a higher risk, allowing proactive interventions. The objective of this study was to predict the incidence of DM2 and prediabetes in the Saudi population over the next five years. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the Aseer region through August 2023 using a cross-sectional survey for data collection. A multistage stratified random sampling technique was adopted, and data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the validated Arabic version of the Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment Tool (AUSDRISK). Results: In total, 652 individuals were included in the study. Their mean age was 32.0 ± 12.0 years; 53.8% were male, 89.6% were from urban areas, and 55.8% were single. There were statistically significant differences between males and females in AUSDRISK items, including age, history of high blood glucose, use of medications for high blood pressure, smoking, physical activity, and measurements of waist circumference (p < 0.05). Based on AUSDRISK scores, 46.2% of the included participants were predicted to develop impaired glucose tolerance within the coming five years (65.8% among females vs. 23.6%), and 21.9% were predicted to develop DM2 (35.6% among males vs. 6.0% among females); this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: Urgent public health action is required to prevent the increasing epidemic of DM2 in Saudi Arabia.

This study investigated the effect of Rosmarinus officinalis L. (RO) extract on neurobehavioral and neurobiological changes in male rats with pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced epilepsy. Rats were assigned into five groups: (1) control rats, (2) RO-treated rats, (3) PTZ-treated rats, (4) PTZ + RO-treated rats, and (5) PTZ + valproic acid (VA)-treated rats. The PTZ-treated rats required a significantly longer time and distance to find the platform in the Morris water maze test than the control and RO-treated rats. Additionally, PTZ-treated rats showed a decrease in tendency to cross over the platform compared to PTZ group. PTZ + RO-treated rats showed decreased swimming time and distance to find the platform compared to PTZ group. PTZ + RO-treated rats showed a significant decrease in seizure score, a reduced number of myoclonic jerks, and an increased onset of the first myoclonic jerk compared to PTZ group. PTZ reduced the time required to enter the dark room in the passive avoidance learning test, which was reversed by RO treatment. Biochemical results revealed that PTZ-treated rats had higher levels of oxidative stress markers. RO significantly increased the antioxidant markers levels and maintained normal rat brain histology. This study revealed that RO can shield the brain and neural tissues from PTZ.

Natural pesticide has been used to fight infestations by red palm weevils is the central cause of the devastation of date palms. This study focuses on controlling Rhynchophorus ferrugineus inhabiting date palms via using natural pesticide created by mixing of onion and garlic extracts without adverse effects damaging palm trees in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, the laboratory analysis in this study evaluated the efficacy and restorative use of onion-garlic mixture for the protection of date palm trees in Saudi Arabia.This research project aims at examining the value of an onion-garlic mix derived from, onion and garlic plants. The mixture was assessed by the factors of performance bioassays, larval mortality, fecundity/sterility, total larval and pupal duration cycle as well as expression of detoxification genes.The results indicate that concentration-mortality were defined in vitro for an onion-garlic mixture utilized throughout 24-hour interval in relation to newly prepared eighth-instar larvae and pupae. Three concentrations a mixture based on onion and garlic (especially 30, 40 and 50 µg/ml) tended to demonstrate enormous toxicity rates in relation to red palm weevil larvae and its pupa. With processing of larval stage, LC50 and LC90 values for a mixture based on onion and garlic were 37 and 52 µg/ml, respectively after 24 h of onion-garlic mixture application. Additionally, the pupal phase was assessed with the onion-garlic mixture and the values of LC50 and LC90 were recorded as 44 and 56 µg/ml, respectively. Female fecundity of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus was essentially decreased, while sterility rate was elevated through use of a mixture in relation to middle aged eighth-instar larvae and pupal phases. The results also extended the time of the larval phase. The mixture’s bioactive effect was observed by selectively decreasing gene expressions of Esterase, Glutathione S transferase (GST) and Cytochrome P450.The findings have been optimistic enough to show that the mixture based on onion and garlic extracts is quite efficient against Rhynchophorus ferrugineus and can be a helpful and safer option against infestations instead of toxic chemical pesticides.

Background Cancer and diabetes have a tremendous impact on health globally. This study aimed to evaluate the KRAS gene in colon cancer tissues obtained from patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Materials and Methods Data from 315 cases (156 colon diabetics and 159 patients were nondiabetics) were retrospectively retrieved. mRNA from surgically resected colon cancer tumors were also retrieved. Results The expression of KRAS mRNA was significantly higher in patients afflicted with T2DM than nondiabetic patients. The KRAS mRNA levels were significantly amplified from primary to metastatic lesions (p

Mosquito vectors captured at a crime scene are forensically valuable since they feed on human blood, and hence, human DNA can be recovered to help identify the victim and/or the suspect. This study investigated the validity of obtaining the human short tandem repeats (STRs) profile from mixed blood meals of the mosquito, Culex pipiens L. (Diptera, Culicidae). Thus, mosquitoes were membrane-feed on blood from six different sources: a human male, a human female, mixed human male-female blood, mixed human male-mouse blood, mixed human female-mouse blood, and mixed human male-female-mouse blood. DNA was extracted from mosquito blood meals at 2 h intervals up to 72 h post-feeding to amplify 24 human STRs. Data showed that full DNA profiles could be obtained for up to 12 h post-feeding, regardless of the type of blood meal. Complete and partial DNA profiles were obtained up to 24 h and 36 h post-feeding, respectively. The frequencies of STR loci decreased over time after feeding on mixed blood until they became weakly detectable at 48 h post-feeding. This may indicate that a blood meal of human blood mixed with animal blood would contribute to maximizing DNA degradation and thus affects STR identification beyond 36 h post-feeding. These results confirm the feasibility of human DNA identification from mosquito blood meals, even if it is mixed with other types of non-human blood, for up to 36 h post-feeding. Therefore, blood-fed mosquitoes found at the crime scene are forensically valuable, as it is possible to obtain intact genetic profiles from their blood meals to identify a victim, a potential offender, and/or exclude a suspect.

To manage the COVID-19 outbreak, the WHO recommends adult and child vaccination. Vaccine skepticism has been a major worldwide health concern for decades, and the situation is worsening. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate parental willingness to vaccinate their children (aged 5 to 11 years) against COVID-19 and to describe its relationship with attitude, barriers, facilitators, and sources of knowledge regarding the vaccine. Methods: From February to March 2022, a community-based cross-sectional survey was undertaken among the parents of Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia. We employed a convenient sampling procedure to gather the required sample. Using the Raosoft sample size calculator, a minimum sample size of 385 was determined based on a 95% confidence level, a 5% margin of error, and a 5% precision level. The data were analyzed using version 26 of SPSS. A p-value less than 0.05 was judged statistically significant. The Chi-square test and likelihood ratio were utilized to describe the relationship between socio-demographic characteristics, driving factors, and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Vaccine hesitancy associated factors were identified using multivariate binary logistic regression. A total of 528 replies were received. The majority of respondents were mothers (77.7%), aged 26 to 40 years (67.8%), married (91.5%), Saudi nationals (96.2%), college graduates (70.6%), with a monthly family income of more than SAR 10,000 (46.4%), non-healthcare professionals (84.7%), employed in the government sector (33.7%), with three children (23.3%), and children aged 5 to 11 years (88.7%). A little more than half of the parents (55.7%) exhibited considerable vaccination hesitancy. About 16.28% of parents were willing to vaccinate their children as soon as possible, compared to 38.44% who had no interest whatsoever in vaccination. A greater proportion of mothers and unemployed parents were unwilling to vaccinate their children. Parents with a higher monthly income (above SAR 10,000), who worked as healthcare professionals, and whose children suffered from chronic conditions were significantly more ready to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. Parents who were aware of anti-vaccination campaigns and who vaccinated their children with required childhood vaccines were also much more likely to vaccinate their children against COVID-19. Most parents (66.9%) obtained information on COVID-19 via the Saudi Ministry of Health website, followed by social media (48.1%). The vaccine’s novelty and the dearth of reliable information about its safety (65%) and insufficient information about its effectiveness (36.2%) were the primary reasons for not vaccinating children against COVID-19, whereas preventing children from contracting COVID-19 (55.9%) and government mandate (38.8%) were the primary reasons for vaccinating children against COVID-19. Conclusions: There was significant parental hesitancy to immunize their children against COVID-19. To involve and educate parents, multi-component interventions must be developed and implemented.

Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the failure to develop or maintain erections that are adequate for sexual performance. ED is increasing in prevalence and incidence worldwide. According to the latest epidemiologic studies, around 10% of men aged 40 to 70 have severe or complete ED. An additional 25% of men in this age group have moderate or sporadic ED. The literature is replete with evidence that smoking has a negative impact on erectile function independent of age or comorbidities. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia, from March-2021 to June-2021. Data on demographic characteristics, erectile dysfunction, and smoking habits was collected by self-administered questionnaire. The descriptive statistics were calculated to measure significant differences among variables, and the chi-square test and t-test were used at 5% level of significance. The data analysis was done by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS)-version 20 software (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results: Out of 500 distributed questionnaires, 450 questionnaires were returned, yielding a response rate of 90.0%. Of 450 patients, the average (SD) age was 33.6 (8.9) years and 55.6% were sexually active (N = 250). Thirty six percent of sexually active respondents were smokers. Independent of age, smokers were at higher risk of having ED. Conclusions: Smoking was associated with higher risk of ED. So, health-policy makers should start an awareness campaign to educate people about the adverse effects of smoking on men’s health. The government should also support these programs for the public.

This study aims to study the efficiency of the Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) for determining coronary artery disease. It compares the frequency of abnormal WHtR, as a proxy for abdominal obesity, to that of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC). It also relates the findings to other cardiometabolic risk factors in University Hospital patients. A cross-sectional study design was used, where a sample of 200 patients (142 males and 58 females) who attended the adult cardiac clinic were purposively included. BMI, WC, and WHtR were measured, where frequencies of WHtR were compared to those of BMI and WC. The findings were related to the history of coronary artery disease (CAD) and history of cardiometabolic risk factors, including diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), and hyperlipidemia. Majority of the male patients were older, taller, and had a lower BMI value. It also showed that the prevalence of dyslipidemia and CAD was higher in male patients. No significant difference between both genders was noticed for weight, WC, WHtR, hypertension, or DM. BMI was least associated with high-risk cardiac population in both males and females (39.4% and 60.3%), followed by WC (84.5% and 96.6%, respectively). WHtR showed the highest association with gender (male 98.6% and females 98.3%). These findings were noticed in patients with all risk factors. WHtR is superior to BMI and WC for determining the elevated risk of diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and CAD in a single university institute. The role of WHtR in both normal and diseased Saudi population should be delineated.

SARS-CoV-2 (or simply COVID-19) remains to be a global pandemic issue affecting millions, thus urging the world’s scientific community to develop efficient vaccine and design adequate measures of disease control. Currently, the most economically viable solution to infections and viruses is vaccination, despite the possible concerns about side effects from implementing quickly developed vaccine. The current commentary intends to explain the health and safety related to COVID-19 vaccines via a prism of global health safety. Scientists across the globe, along with companies from both public and private sectors, have predictably arranged cooperative programs to learn about COVID-19, along with taking simultaneous steps on devising vaccine and preparing effective treatments plans. Presently, several clinical trials to approve the efficiency of proposed vaccine solutions have been made successfully. Global health safety concerns on vaccine’s efficiency such as high costs of production, provision of vaccine to developing countries, and its influence on the global economy are addressed. This commentary reflects on current efforts related to the development of vaccine against COVID-19, which currently affects the global health status and economy. In addition, the commentary aims at addressing potential risks related to the development of COVID-19 vaccine from the global health safety perspective.

This study examined the influence of iodine supplementation and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)  mutations in Saudi vegetarian women with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Blood and tissue samples from PTC-diagnosed women were analyzed for thyroid function, mtDNA mutations, and immunohistological features. Statistical analysis using Sigmastat was employed to compare thyroid hormone levels and mtDNA mutations between groups. Serum total levels of tri-iodothyronine and thyroid-stimulating hormone were significantly different in patients following a vegetarian diet (P<0.05). Patients with PTC showed an increased frequency of mtDNA mutations in the D-loop region, with significantly higher mutation rates observed in patients following a vegetarian diet compared to other PTC patient groups (P<0.001) and controls (P<0.01). Notably, the mutations were predominantly somatic in Group 3 and germline in Groups 1 and 2. The findings suggest a possible link between iodine deficiency and accelerated PTC tumorigenesis. Furthermore, mtDNA mutations may serve as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of PTC.

Various research pieces of evidence have been published in recent years, establishing the increasing prevalence of early colon cancer among young people. In this background, the current study aimed to analyze the reasons behind colon cancer recurrence among endogamous consanguineous cases in four generations of a single Saud family. For this study, the authors conducted the whole-exome sequencing analysis to screen for germline mutations in DNA samples from consanguineous cases within the family. After collecting the colon samples, it was analyzed histologically and immunohistochemically with the help of Breast Cancer antibodies (BRCA2 and 1 correspondingly) and H&M staining (hematoxylin and eosin). For this study, 26 at-risk consanguineous cases were considered. Three cases were diagnosed with malignant colon cancer, two with breast cancer, and 17 with germline mutations, yet remain unaffected by cancerous tumors. The rest, four consanguineous cases, are healthy and non-carriers of the mutations. However, as per the exome analysis outcomes, 15 cases inherited germline mutations in nine genes. Nine substitution mutations were present in six of the nine inherited genes in these inherited germline mutations. Furthermore, it also presented six insertion and deletion frameshift mutations in five of nine inherited genes. The immunohistochemical staining process achieved positive staining outcomes for BRCA1 and 2. Therefore, germline mutations inherited from the nine genes of endogamous consanguineous cases of mutation carriers remain the primary reason behind colon cancer recurrence in the same family.