Predictors of specialist care referrals (SCR) following emergency department review or hospital admission in adults with previous acute COVID-19: a prospective UK cohort study.

Background: Long-COVID research to date focuses on outcomes in non-hospitalised vs. hospitalised survivors. However Emergency Department attendees (post-ED) presenting with acute COVID-19 may experience less supported recovery compared to people admitted and discharged from hospital (post-hospitalised group, PH).

Priming and release of cytokine IL-1β in microglial cells from the retina.

The P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) for extracellular ATP is implicated in several forms of retinal degeneration, including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma. P2X7R stimulation can trigger release of master cytokine IL-1β from microglia in the brain and from macrophages, but evidence of release from retinal microglia is indirect. Isolated mouse and rat retinal microglia, and wholemounts from CX3CR1 mice, were examined to determine if ATP induced IL-1β release directly from retinal microglial cells and if it also primed expression of IL-1β on an mRNA and protein level.

The rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI) as a predictor for extubation success in medical and surgical ICU patients: A retrospective cohort study.

Background: Endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation comprise common life support interventions for patients in intensive care units (ICUs). Premature or delayed extubation increases the risk of morbidity and mortality. Despite following weaning protocols, 10-20 % of patients fail extubation within 48 h.

Truncated SPAG9 as a novel candidate gene for a new syndrome: Coarse facial features, albinism, cataract and developmental delay (CACD syndrome).

Sperm-associated antigen 9 (SPAG9) is a member of cancer-testis antigen, having characteristics of a scaffold protein, which is involved in the c-Jun N-terminal kinase JNK signaling pathway, suggesting its key involvement in different physiological processes, such as survival, apoptosis, tumorigenesis, and cell proliferation. We identified two families (A and B) having multisystem features like coarse facial features, albinism, cataracts, skeletal abnormalities, and developmental delay. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) in families A and B revealed a homozygous frameshift variant (c.

The Use of PediSTAT Application by Paramedics Working in Saudi Arabia to Reduce the Risk of Medication Error for Pediatric Patients.

Background/objectives: This study aimed to assess and compare the rates of medication error (ME) using the PediSTAT application compared to the conventional method of calculating the correct dose and determining the appropriate route of medication administration for common pediatric emergencies.

Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study design was used for the study. Data were collected using a questionnaire that was distributed to certified paramedics holding a bachelor's degrees or higher and working in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia.

Atypical femoral fracture in a patient with nutritional osteomalacia: a case report and literature review.

Atypical femoral fractures (AFF) are rare stress fractures with specific diagnostic criteria, as outlined in a report published by the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. These criteria are categorized into major and minor features, and AFF can be classified as either complete or incomplete. Bisphosphonates have been shown to increase the risk of AFF, and most cases of AFF are associated with bisphosphonate use.

Recent advances in bacterial outer membrane vesicles: Effects on the immune system, mechanisms and their usage for tumor treatment.

Tumor treatment remains a significant medical challenge, with many traditional therapies causing notable side effects. Recent research has led to the development of immunotherapy, which offers numerous advantages. Bacteria inherently possess motility, allowing them to preferentially colonize tumors and modulate the tumor immune microenvironment, thus influencing the efficacy of immunotherapy.

Development of nucleic acid-based vaccines against dengue and other mosquito-borne flaviviruses: the past, present, and future.

Due to their widespread geographic distribution and frequent outbreaks, mosquito-borne flaviviruses, such as DENV (DENV), Zika virus (ZIKV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), yellow fever virus (YFV), and West Nile virus (WNV), are considered significant global public health threats and contribute to dramatic socioeconomic imbalances worldwide. The global prevalence of these viruses is largely driven by extensive international travels and ecological disruptions that create favorable conditions for the breeding of and species, the mosquito vectors responsible for the spread of these pathogens. Currently, vaccines are available for only DENV, YFV, and JEV, but these face several challenges, including safety concerns, lengthy production processes, and logistical difficulties in distribution, especially in resource-limited regions, highlighting the urgent need for innovative vaccine approaches.

Parkinson's disease exacerbation following Levetiracetam administration: an unusual phenomenon.

Background: Several studies have investigated the potential beneficial and side effects of levetiracetam on Parkinson's disease (PD). We hereby report a case of PD exacerbation following Levetiracetam administration for seizure prophylaxis.

Case Description: A 77-year-old female, known to have PD, presented with a head injury following a fall.

Electronic cigarette use among adolescents in Saudi Arabia: A national study, 2022.

Introduction: Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use has increased globally among adolescents. However, data on its use among adolescents in Saudi Arabia remain limited. Therefore, this study describes the characteristics and factors associated with e-cigarette use in this population.

Endocannabinoid and hematological responses to pre- and post-therapeutic exercises in liver transplant patients.

Endocannabinoids (eCBs) play a crucial role in regulating the pathophysiological progression of chronic liver disease through hepatic cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2). According to the literature, various treatment options are available for liver disease patients, including transplantation and physical activity both before and after the procedure. The aim of this study is to assess the response of endocannabinoids to pre- and post-therapeutic exercises in liver transplant patients (LTx).

Current practice of using the airway pressure release ventilation mode in acute respiratory distress syndrome patients among respiratory therapists in Saudi Arabia.

Background: There is a limited data examining the practice of using the airway pressure release ventilation mode for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome among respiratory therapists.

Objectives: To evaluate the current practice and barriers when using airway pressure release ventilation mode in the management of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was disseminated between November 2022 and April 2023 to respiratory therapists in Saudi Arabia.

The impact of dental photography in social media platforms on patients' selection of dentists and type of treatment.

Background: Dental photography has many advantages such as improving professional communication, enhancing patient education, and facilitating treatment acceptance. This study investigated the impact of dental photography through social media on patients' choice of dental care providers.

Methods: This cross-sectional survey-based study recruited a convenience sample of adult patients attending selected public and private dental facilities in Saudi Arabia.

Understanding and Managing Pediatric Urinary Tract Infections in Vesicoureteral Reflux: Insights Into Pathophysiology and Care.

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a pediatric condition identified by the backward flow of urine from the bladder to one or both ureters and kidneys, predisposing patients to recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney scarring. Continuous antibiotic prophylaxis has long been a mainstay of management aimed at preventing recurrent UTIs and resulting renal damage. This review critically discusses the evidence supporting the utilization of antibiotic prophylaxis in VUR, with a focus on its efficacy, safety, long-term outcomes, and future directions in management.

Clinicopathological Characteristics of Thyroid Cancer: A 10-Year Experience at a Tertiary Care Center in Saudi Arabia.

Background Thyroid nodules are typically an initial sign of thyroid cancer (TC) and require evaluation by thyroid ultrasonography. Additional measures, such as fine needle aspiration, may be necessary depending on the level of malignancy risk. This study aims to comprehensively analyze TC clinical, radiological, and histopathological characteristics in a cohort of Saudi patients.

The Predictive Factors of Acne Scarring and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Introduction: Acne vulgaris, a prevalent dermatological condition, often results in long-term complications such as scarring and hyperpigmentation. While extensive research has focused on treatment modalities, there is a notable gap in understanding the factors contributing to the development of acne scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

Purpose: This study was conducted to identify the factors contributing to the development of acne scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

Value of routine blood count surveillance in detecting relapse in acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Background: Children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have excellent outcomes, with >85% survival without relapse following contemporary therapies. Clinical and complete blood count (CBC) assessments are commonly used surveillance methods to detect relapses. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of routine blood testing for detecting relapse using a systematic method of assessing normal and abnormal results.

Exploring lifestyle and dietary pattern shifts among Saudi adults during COVID-19 pandemic: insights from a cross-sectional examination.

Background: Since the emergence of COVID-19 and the subsequent imposition of lockdown and movement restrictions, the world has witnessed fundamental lifestyle changes including alterations in dietary patterns and food consumption habits. Here, we investigated how the COVID-19 lockdown impacted dietary patterns and eating behaviors in the Saudi population.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study enrolled 427 participants aged 18 years or more, with 258 of them completing the survey.

Functional neurological disorder treated with psychoeducation: A case report.

Rationale: Psychogenic tremor (PT) is the most common subtype of psychogenic movement disorder, characterized by involuntary movement, and is usually related to occupational injuries or accidents. Psychogenic movement disorder falls under the category of functional neurological disorders, which are diagnosed based on the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

Patient Concerns: A 25-year-old Saudi male with a history of recurrent superior ventricular tachycardia presented to the emergency department with tremors affecting all his extremities for 8 days.

Targeting senescence and GATA4 in age-related cardiovascular disease: a comprehensive approach.

The growing prevalence of age-related cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) poses significant health challenges, necessitating the formulation of novel treatment approaches. GATA4, a vital transcription factor identified for modulating cardiovascular biology and cellular senescence, is recognized for its critical involvement in CVD pathogenesis. This review collected relevant studies from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct using search terms like 'GATA4,' 'cellular senescence,' 'coronary artery diseases,' 'hypertension,' 'heart failure,' 'arrhythmias,' 'congenital heart diseases,' 'cardiomyopathy,' and 'cardiovascular disease.

Exploring the Association Between Hypothyroidism, Mean Platelet Volume, and Red Cell Distribution Width: A Case-Control Study.

Background: Thyroid hormones are important in regulating hematopoiesis. Recent research has suggested that red cell distribution width (RDW) and mean platelet volume (MPV) may be useful inflammatory markers in various disorders, including thyroid disorders. Hence, the study aimed to evaluate the association between hypothyroidism, RDW, and MPV.

Efficacy of Probiotics in the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) significantly impacts quality of life. Probiotics offer relief by modulating gut microbiota, but variability in outcomes necessitates a systematic evaluation of their efficacy. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in improving symptoms of IBS through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Comparative efficacy of minoxidil alone versus minoxidil combined with low-level laser therapy in the treatment of androgenic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective: This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of minoxidil alone versus minoxidil with low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for androgenic alopecia.

Study Design: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods: An online search of PubMed, Web of Science, and MEDLINE was conducted.