Evaluating the Transformative Impact of Online Education on Medical Student Learning Outcomes.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic forced educational institutions worldwide to shift to online learning as a means to continue education during lockdowns and social distancing measures. This study investigates the effectiveness of online learning in comparison to traditional on-campus learning, specifically within the context of medical education.

Methods: Two hundred and three first- and second-year medical students at King Saud University participated in this randomized experimental study.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Conditioned Media Modulate HUVEC Response to HO: Impact on Gene Expression and Potential for Atherosclerosis Intervention.

We studied the potential of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell conditioned media (hBMSC CM) in protecting endothelial cell properties (viability, proliferation, and migrations) from the deleterious effects produced by the inflammatory environment of HO. Additionally, we investigated their impact on the endothelial cells' gene expression of some inflammatory-related genes, namely, TGF-1, FOS, ATF3, RAF-1, and SMAD3. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured individually under three conditions: alone, with varying concentrations of HO, or with varying concentrations of HO and hBMSC CM.

The Impact of Recurrent Epistaxis on the Quality of Life of Children and the Functioning of Their Families.

Introduction Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, is a common pediatric emergency, impacting their quality of life (QoL). Existing research on epistaxis has predominantly focused on clinical aspects, overlooking its broader impact on the quality of life of affected children and the functioning of their families. This study seeks to fill that gap by assessing the impact of recurrent epistaxis on children's QoL, family dynamics, and parental stress in Saudi Arabia's Eastern region.

Efficacy and safety of glecaprevir and pibrentasvir in Saudi patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection at a major tertiary hospital.

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) in chronic hepatitis C (HCV) patients, and to assess the prescribers' adherence to Food and Drug Administration recommendations on treatment duration.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was carried out on chronic HCV patients of ≥18 years, with or without cirrhosis, naive or experienced, and with normal kidney function or chronic kidney disease (including dialysis patients) at Prince Sultan Military Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between February 2020 and March 2021. The primary effectiveness end-point was the number and percentage of patients who achieved a sustained virologic response (SVR12), virologic failure, and non-response.

The impact of acute weight loss following bariatric surgery on Eustachian tube function.

Obesity has emerged as a pressing concern in contemporary society, prompting an increase in bariatric surgery (BS) procedures for severe obesity management. Post-bariatric weight loss might cause complications, such as a reduction in the soft tissue surrounding the Eustachian tube, potentially affecting its function. This cohort prospective study, conducted between May and December 2022, aimed to assess the impact of post-bariatric acute weight loss on Eustachian tube function.