bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Antibiotic-prescribing Patterns for Tonsillitis in Paediatric Patients: A Cross-sectional Analysis in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aleid Kawthar Mohammed , Alolayani Rayan Ali , Alreheili Shatha Hamzah , Miftah Feras Omar , Alzahrani Manar Mohammed , Abbas Ghada Ahmed Bin , Alarfaj Abdullah Ahmed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Tonsillitis, marked by the inflammatory response of the pharyngeal tonsil, is a prevalent medical condition affecting a significant portion of the paediatric population. If left unchecked, this inflammation can extend to both the adenoid and lingual tonsils. While the majority of tonsillitis cases stem from viral infections, the administration of antibiotics remains a common practice, even in the absence of bacterial infections. Such practices can precipitate antibiotic resistance, posing a significant health threat. Against this backdrop, this study aims to delve into the antibiotic-prescribing patterns for paediatric tonsillitis in Saudi Arabia and propose interventions to refine these prescribing practices.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional research approach was employed from January to July 2023 in Saudi Arabia. An online questionnaire was disseminated to physicians in hospitals and healthcare centres throughout the nation. While the minimum sample size was pegged at 384 based on Raosoft, Inc.’s calculations, the study witnessed the participation of 711 individuals. All the collected data underwent analysis using the SPSS software version 28.0.

Results:
Surveying 711 individuals across Saudi Arabia revealed that the representation of participants was predominantly split between the 0–12 months and 1–3 years age brackets. The data spotlighted a significant prevalence of tonsillitis in the paediatric segment, indicated by a mean frequency score of 3.72 (standard deviation (SD) = 1.319). Interestingly, a significant chunk of respondents noted the absence of marked antibiotic resistance in paediatric patients, as captured by a mean score of 2.96 (SD = 1.064). An association of moderate strength emerged between the paediatric patient’s age and the propensity to choose between broad-spectrum and narrow-spectrum antibiotics. Specifically, 59.1% and 54.5% of the respondents reported this association, respectively. Notably, in primary care settings, penicillin-based antibiotics emerged as the go-to choice for paediatric tonsillitis, making up 36.4% of prescriptions.

Conclusions:
The research underscores the efficacy of antibiotics such as penicillin for paediatric tonsillitis patients. The choice of antibiotic seems to be influenced by factors such as the patient’s age and the specific healthcare setting. By enhancing physician education and refining clinical assessments, there lies an opportunity to curtail the unwarranted use of antibiotics.

Categories:
Otolaryngology
Cross-sectional Study on Strabismus Prevalence and Risk Factors in Saudi Arabian Children
Authors: Aleid Kawthar Mohammed , Alhawsawi Kawther Ibrahim , Abutalib Yumna Barakat , Alsultan Leyan Sultan , Felemban Mayar Saud , Almutairi Jawza Ali , Alkhars Ola Ahmad 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Strabismus affects 1.3%–5.7% of children globally, with an 11.8% prevalence in Saudi Arabia. Risk factors include low-gestational age, high refractive error, family history and parental consanguinity. Limited research in Saudi Arabia creates barriers to effective treatment and prevention. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of strabismus among Saudi children, with an emphasis on genetic- and birth-related factors. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of strabismus among Saudi children, with an emphasis on genetic- and birth-related factors.

Methods:
This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to September 2023 in Saudi Arabia. Stratified random sampling was used to select children aged 1–12 who were at high risk or had a family history of strabismus. Data from 774 participants were collected through eye examinations and family history interviews.

Results:
The study found a 30.0% rate of familial notice of strabismus and a 16.9% confirmed diagnosis rate. A high percentage of participants had a family history of strabismus and consanguineous parents, with a significant link between parental consanguinity and strabismus (P < 0.001). In addition, prematurity was significantly associated with strabismus (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
The study highlights the significant role of genetics, especially parental consanguinity, in strabismus among Saudi children. The strong link with prematurity suggests the need for focused neonatal care. Results call for improved genetic counselling, early screening and healthcare strategies to mitigate strabismus risk, emphasising further research for intervention refinement.
Research Proposal: A Retrospective Analysis of Vocal Pathologies in an ENT Clinical Setting in Al-Hasa, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aleid Abdulsalam Mohammed , Basuhail Mohammed Abdullah , Moafa Akram Khalid Ahmed , Albenmousa Fatimah Ali , Albazie Imtinan Saleh , Alarfaj Abdullah Ahmed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
ENT clinics frequently see cases of vocal disorders. Voice abnormalities in the Saudi Arabian setting have, however, been the subject of little investigation. This retrospective study aimed to analyse vocal recordings from Al-Moosa Hospital in Al-Hasa, Saudi Arabia, to distinguish between healthy and pathological voices.

Methods:
A study involving 208 adult patients was conducted to analyse sustained vowel phonation using an iPhone 14 Pro Max. Participants were categorised into eight groups based on diagnosis, and twelve acoustic parameters were extracted from the recordings. Pitch analysis was conducted to map F0 values to musical pitch notes and frequencies. Python libraries such as librosa and numpy were used to extract pitch data. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with normality assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test. Analyses included one-way analysis of variance, paired sample t-tests, correlations between variables, multiple linear regression and logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results:
Significant variations were seen in eight acoustic measures across all diagnosis categories. Pitch analysis characterised characteristics across groups by identifying average F0 ranges and mapping them to musical notes. Pitch mapping improved the characterisation of profiles. Polyps have a wider range of low pitches than nodules that maintain higher notes. Using statistical modelling, pathology prediction and determinants were connected, with noise-to-harmonics ratio demonstrating superior classification.

Conclusion:
The study identifies vocal fold pathologies in Saudi patients using objective acoustic analyses. It reveals significant variations between healthy and diseased voices, and a new pitch mapping enhancement makes profiles easier to distinguish. Statistical modelling consistently predicts diagnoses based on acoustic anomalies. Despite limitations, the study improves clinical knowledge and lays the groundwork for future research and real-world applications.
Determining Prevalence and Identifying Risk Factors for Cerebral Palsy among Saudi Neonates: Insights from a Cross-sectional Analysis
Authors: Aleid Mohammed Sami , Alhamoud Marah Abdulhadi , Al Abbas Layan Abdulmunem , Almuabdi Ahlam Saad , Althubaiti Khalid Abdullah , Bushnag Taleen Adnan , Alradhi Hawra Khalifah , Althubaiti Raneem Ghazi , Alhodibi Mostafa Habeeb , Albinsaad Loai 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a chronic neurodevelopmental disease characterised by impairments in movement and posture, resulting from non-progressive brain insults during infant or child development. Affecting about a third of those diagnosed, CP underscores its complexity and variability as a leading cause of physical disability in children. This study aims to explore the prevalence and risk factors of CP in Saudi infants, addressing the gap in understanding CP’s characteristics in the Saudi context and its global implications.

Methods:
A comprehensive cross-sectional study, conducted across various geographic areas and healthcare settings in Saudi Arabia from August to November 2023, was designed to investigate CP’s prevalence and risk factors in Saudi infants. The study encompassed 2005 participants, primarily Saudi infants aged 0–2 years, selected through random and stratified sampling. The inclusion criteria targeted Saudi adults aged 18 years or older, mainly parents or legal guardians of infants, while excluding those unable to provide informed consent. Data collection involved structured interviews, medical record reviews and clinical examinations focusing on demographic information, maternal health history and CP risk factors.

Results:
The demographic analysis of the 2005 participants highlighted a majority in the 35–44-year age range, predominantly females with a bachelor’s degree, largely residing in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. Key findings revealed no significant association between CP and low birth weight. However, developmental delays or motor difficulties were notably associated with CP. In addition, maternal infections during pregnancy were identified as influencing CP diagnosis, highlighting the multifactorial nature of CP and the importance of early intervention and awareness.

Conclusion:
The study reveals critical insights into CP among Saudi infants, particularly identifying the role of maternal infections during pregnancy as a key risk factor and challenging the traditional association between low birth weight and CP. These findings fill significant gaps in existing research, offering new perspectives for clinical and public health approaches. The study calls for a re-evaluation of medical protocols and public health strategies, emphasising the need for early detection and treatment of maternal infections to mitigate CP risk, and opens new avenues for future research in prenatal factors and preventive measures.
Cross-sectional Analysis of Urological Complications Following Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Therapy
Authors: Almuzaini Mohammed Khalid , Alarafy Hasan A. , Alghamdi Kheder , Aljahdali Faisal Hameed , Albawardi Khalid Abdulrahman , AlQurashi Noura Nawar S. , Alhifthi Mohammed Abdulrahman , Alshehri Ali A. , Alahmari Abdullah M. , Al Ghanim Basmah Z. , Alfadhli Abdulmohsen N. , Albinsaad Loai Saleh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
The study addresses the prevalence of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) amongst elderly males and its treatment outcomes, particularly focusing on secondary urological issues such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary incontinence (UI) and erectile dysfunction (ED). The aim is to explore the dynamics of these complications post-BPH treatment, contributing to the field of urology.

Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 1454 male patients aged 18–65 years or older treated for BPH. Data collection took place from July to January 2024, using comprehensive self-reported questionnaires. The study employed statistical tools such as correlation coefficients, Chi-square tests and multivariate regression in SPSS 28.0 to identify patterns amongst UTIs, UI and ED. Significance was assessed at a P < 0.05.

Results:
The analysis indicated that 34.6% of participants experienced UTIs, 57.7% had UI and 38.5% suffered from ED following BPH treatment. Strong statistical correlations were found between the occurrences of UTIs and UI, as well as UTIs and ED, with significant P values. An increase in UI frequency was particularly noted in patients post-BPH resection.

Conclusion:
This study sheds light on the interconnected nature of UTIs, UI and ED after BPH treatment, emphasising a holistic approach in post-treatment patient care. The findings highlight the necessity of managing these interconnected complications, aiming to improve patient quality of life and inform comprehensive treatment strategies.
Newer topical therapies in vitiligo: A comprehensive review
Authors: Relhan Vineet , Kaur Aneet , Bagrodia Anjali 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Vitiligo is a cosmetically disfiguring acquired disorder of pigmentation presenting with well-defined milky-white depigmented macules. It is one of the most common pigmentary disorders presenting to clinicians and constitutes a disease of great cosmetic concern, carrying high psychological burdens like anxiety, stress, and low self-esteem. It is considered to be an autoimmune disease, although various theories such as the autoimmune, autocytotoxic theory, neural hypotheses, and the latest convergence theory are proposed for its pathogenesis. Though many drugs and therapies are available for management, efficacy, and patient satisfaction are variable in patients. Hence, there is an ongoing search for better drugs. While many systemic therapies are available, topical treatment is one of the safest modalities for its management with minimal side effects, and the majority of patients can be managed with topical therapy alone. This highlights the need for evaluating new treatment options for vitiligo. Ruxolitinib is the first topical therapy approved by the FDA in July 2022 for the management of vitiligo. Similarly, many new upcoming topicals like prostaglandin F2 alpha and E2 analogs, tofacitinib cream, basic fibroblast growth factor, 1% topical methotrexate gel, capsaicin, photocil, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, crisaborole, intradermal PRP, etc., are under investigation. In this review article, we discuss the mechanism, therapeutic use, side effects, and clinical trials of new topical agents being used in vitiligo. New topical drugs are successfully emerging, and future research comparing them to classical options will dictate their clinical role in the treatment of vitiligo.
Levetiracetam-induced Pityriasis rosea: A rare case report
Authors: Bhatt Siddharth , Rajput Gopal Singh , Sharma Seerat Pal , Sridhar J 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Levetiracetam is a second-generation anti-epileptic drug (AED). It is generally considered to be a safer alternative as compared to the first-generation AEDs with lesser side effects and no cross-reactivity. Many cutaneous adverse events to Levetiracetam have been reported in the literature over the years including Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome, Steven-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, generalized hyperpigmentation, and leukocytoclastic vasculitis. However, Pityriasis rosea occurring secondary to Levetiracetam has never been reported in the literature. This report highlights one such case with a discussion of salient dermoscopic features of Pityriasis rosea and the clinical and histopathological differences between classical Pityriasis rosea and Drug-induced Pityriasis rosea-like eruptions.
Cyclosporine in dermatology: Revisited
Authors: Bubna Aditya Kumar 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Cyclosporine is a valuable drug in the dermatologic spectrum. It is of particular value when an immediate outcome is desired. However, owing to its toxicity profile, it cannot be used for a prolonged period, thereby making it predominantly a crisis-buster drug. This review will throw light on all the essentials of cyclosporine that would be mandatory for any practicing dermatologist.
Raw Ocimum sanctum L. leaf extract modulates the pharmacokinetic of ceftriaxone and increases its bioavailability in staphylococcal mastitis
Authors: Dash Jeevan Ranjan , Sar Tapas Kumar , Samanta Indranil , Mandal Tapan Kumar 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND:
To study the pharmacokinetic interaction of cephalosporin antibiotic ceftriaxone (CFT) with raw undiluted Ocimum sanctum L. leaf juice in chronic staphylococcal mastitis in caprine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Chronic inflammation of the udder was evoked in goats by Staphylococcus aureus (J638) intracisternal inoculation 2000 cfu for 30 days into the left udder. Animals of Group I were given one single dose of CFT at 20 mg/kg i.v. Group II animals were given one single dose of CFT at 20 mg/kg i.v, and contemporary extracted fresh leaf juice of O. sanctum L. given at 5 ml/kg orally for 7 consecutive days.

RESULTS:

O. sanctum L. at 5 ml/kg oral had synergistic herb–drug pharmacokinetic interaction with CFT antibiotic (i.v.) and increased its bioavailability. It prolonged its rate of elimination (β) and enhanced the volume of distribution (Vdarea) and mean residence time in the body. Bioavailability and persistence of the antibiotic CFT and its metabolite ceftizoxime were increased in the milk from the udder.

CONCLUSION:
Administration of O. sanctum L. at 5 ml/kg oral with intravenous CFT at 20 mg/kg may be advocated for effective treatment of S. aureus inflammation of the udder in caprine.
In vitro antimicrobial and cytotoxic potential against colorectal cancer cell lines using ethanolic leaf extract of Sansevieria trifasciata (Agavaceae)
Authors: Afzal Sheryar , Wu Yuan Seng , Manap Aimi Syamaima Abdul , Attiq Ali , Albokhadaim Ibrahim , Appalaraju Velaga , Khalid Ahmed Magzoub , Eseyin Olorunfemi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Sansevieria trifasciata, common name, mother-in-law’s tongue, is a member of the Agavaceae family. We undertook this study to evaluate the cytotoxicity of S. trifasciata leaf extract against two cancer cell lines as well as its antibacterial activities against six bacterial strains.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The investigated cell lines include primary colon epithelial (PCE) cells and human colorectal cancer cells; the studied bacterial strains are Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus vulgaris, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Using the agar well-diffusion method, various doses (5, 10, and 20 mg/mL) of plant extracts (ethanol and petroleum ether) were evaluated against each kind of bacterial strain. The minimal inhibitory doses were found using the two-fold serial dilution approach, with a range of 0.156–5 mg/mL.

RESULTS:
Comparing extracts of S. trifasciata leaves to tetracycline (0.05 mg/mL), a common antibiotic, revealed a wide range of antibacterial activity. P. vulgaris and S. aureus were the most sensitive bacterial strains to ethanol and petroleum ether extracts, respectively. The MTT test was employed to ascertain the viable cell count of PCE cells and HCT-116. When various ethanol extract concentrations (7.8, 15.63, 31.25, 62.5, 125, 250, 500, and 1000 μg/mL) were tested against the cell lines, HCT-116’s IC50, values were lower as compared to PCE. The IC50 values for HCT-116 and PCE cells ranged from 10.0 to 14.07 μg/mL and 92.9–216.9 μg/mL, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:
Ethanolic extract of S. trifasciata showed promising antibacterial and anticancer properties.
Training and education in pharmacovigilance: The experience from the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India
Authors: Kumar Rishi , Prakash Jai , Bhushan Shashi , Rawat Akash Deep , Ray R. S. , Raghuvanshi Rajeev Singh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
For a robust Pharmacovigilance system in a country, training of healthcare professionals is of utmost importance. The training is the integral part of continual improvement in any quality management system. The present article describes the different training modules and experience from the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) and emphasizes that if training and education elements with special reference to pharmacovigilance are implemented for all concerned stakeholders in a healthcare system, the efficiency of deliverables will be improved and objectives of the organization can easily be achieved. The PvPI has been putting its best efforts to train healthcare professionals in pharmacovigilance and it has achieved new heights in establishing best practices for the other countries to follow for the development of pharmacovigilance system in their respective countries or regions. The aim of this article is to suggest how capacity building in a pharmacovigilance system can help low- and middle-income countries in area of pharmacovigilance. The authors tried to conceptualize the process and implementation of the training program under PvPI.
Lnc_011797 promotes ferroptosis and aggravates white matter lesions
Authors: Xu Xiang , Sun Yu , Zhu Xiaoyan , Ma Shiyin , Wei Jin , He Chang , Chen Jing , Pan Xudong 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that ferroptosis plays a crucial role in the occurrence and development of white matter lesions. However, the mechanisms and regulatory pathways involved in ferroptosis within white matter lesions remain unclear. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to influence the occurrence and development of these lesions. We previously identified lnc_011797 as a biomarker of white matter lesions by high-throughput sequencing. To investigate the mechanism by which lnc_011797 regulates white matter lesions, we established subjected human umbilical vein endothelial cells to oxygen-glucose deprivation to simulate conditions associated with white matter lesions. The cells were transfected with lnc_011797 overexpression or knockdown lentiviruses. Our findings indicate that lnc_011797 promoted ferroptosis in these cells, leading to the formation of white matter lesions. Furthermore, lnc_011797 functioned as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-193b-3p, thereby regulating the expression of WNK1 and its downstream ferroptosis-related proteins.
To validate the role of lnc_011797 in vivo, we established a mouse model of white matter lesions through bilateral common carotid artery stenosis. The results from this model confirmed that lnc_011797 regulates ferroptosis via WNK1 and promotes the development of white matter lesions. These findings clarify the mechanism by which lncRNAs regulate white matter lesions, providing a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of white matter lesions.
Targeting the brain’s glymphatic pathway: a novel therapeutic approach for cerebral small vessel disease
Authors: Ma Yuhui , Han Yan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Cerebral small vessel disease encompasses a group of neurological disorders characterized by injury to small blood vessels, often leading to stroke and dementia. Due to its diverse etiologies and complex pathological mechanisms, preventing and treating cerebral small vessel vasculopathy is challenging. Recent studies have shown that the glymphatic system plays a crucial role in interstitial solute clearance and the maintenance of brain homeostasis. Increasing evidence also suggests that dysfunction in glymphatic clearance is a key factor in the progression of cerebral small vessel disease. This review begins with a comprehensive introduction to the structure, function, and driving factors of the glymphatic system, highlighting its essential role in brain waste clearance. Afterwards, cerebral small vessel disease was reviewed from the perspective of the glymphatic system, after which the mechanisms underlying their correlation were summarized. Glymphatic dysfunction may lead to the accumulation of metabolic waste in the brain, thereby exacerbating the pathological processes associated with cerebral small vessel disease. The review also discussed the direct evidence of glymphatic dysfunction in patients and animal models exhibiting two subtypes of cerebral small vessel disease: arteriolosclerosis-related cerebral small vessel disease and amyloid-related cerebral small vessel disease. Diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space is an important non-invasive tool for assessing the clearance function of the glymphatic system. However, the effectiveness of its parameters needs to be enhanced. Among various nervous system diseases, including cerebral small vessel disease, glymphatic failure may be a common final pathway toward dementia. Overall, this review summarizes prevention and treatment strategies that target glymphatic drainage and will offer valuable insight for developing novel treatments for cerebral small vessel disease.