In severe acne vulgaris, TNF-α gene variants are connected to increased TNF-α gene expression and insulin resistance.

BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting the pilosebaceous unit, commonly presenting as comedones, papules, pustules, or nodules on the face, upper limbs, torso, and back, with comedones formation being the primary pathology leading to disfiguring inflammation, hyperpigmentation, scarring, and psychological impact. AIM: The purpose of this study was to investigate the significance of two genetic variants in the promoter region of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) gene and their association with insulin resistance (IR) in acne patients. To understand how these variants contribute to AV and its associated IR. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study with a case-control design and research evaluation was carried out on 87 AV patients and 73 healthy volunteers. The medical histories of both groups were obtained, as well as the severity and duration of inflammation among acne sufferers, as well as demographic data. Biochemical analysis was performed on both sets of participants, including fasting blood glucose levels, insulin levels while fasting, IR, and serum TNF-α. PCR-RFLP analysis identified -863 G > A (rs1800630) and -308 G > A (rs1800629) variations, and real-time PCR analysis evaluated TNF-α gene expression in both patients and healthy people. RESULTS: Acne patients exhibited significantly higher levels of IR, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, serum TNF-α, and TNF-α folding change, when compared to healthy controls. The co-dominant model for -863 G > A and -308 G > A variants exhibited significant variations between the two groups. Severe acne patients who had the A/A genotype for -308 variants exhibited higher levels of IR, serum TNF-α, and TNF-α folding change. Highly significant positive linear correlation between IR, serum TNF-α, and TNF-α folding change in severe AV. CONCLUSION: There is a correlation between AV, especially severe acne, and the -863 G > A and -308 G > A polymorphism, which influences TNF-α gene expression and serum TNF-α levels.

The role of hsa-miR-193a-5p as an important factor for control of inositol in alopecia areata.

BACKGROUND: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules that play a regulatory role in various biological processes by acting as intracellular mediators. They hold great potential as therapeutic agents for targeting human disease pathways; however, there is still much to be uncovered about their mechanism of gene regulation. Alopecia areata (AA) is a commonly occurring inflammatory condition characterized by the infiltration of T cells that specifically target the anagen-stage hair follicle. The limited understanding of its precise cellular mechanism may be the reason behind the scarcity of effective treatments for AA. AIM: The significance and function of hsa-miR-193a-5p as a genetic marker for AA and its potential influence on the advancement of the disease. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A case-control study comprised 77 individuals diagnosed with AA who were matched with 75 healthy controls. In order to measure the expression of miR-200c-3p in both groups, the real-time PCR technique was utilized. The prediction of suitable genes for hsa-miR-193a-5p, as well as the identification of pathways and gene-gene interactions, were carried out using bioinformatic tools. RESULTS: The levels of hsa-miR-193a-5p expression were notably elevated in AA patients in comparison to healthy controls. Our prediction suggests that the involvement of hsa-miR-193a-5p in the development of AA is significant due to its influence on the inositol phosphorylation pathway and the Phosphatidylinositol signaling system, achieved through its direct impact on the IPPK gene. CONCLUSION: For the first time, our study demonstrates the significant over-expression of a new miRNA, hsa-miR-193a-5p, in the blood of AA patients compared to controls, and highlights its impact on the IPPK gene and the inositol phosphorylation and Phosphatidylinositol signaling pathways, suggesting a potential therapeutic role for hsa-miR-193a-5p in AA.

Intralesional Quadrivalent Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine Versus Candida Antigen in the Treatment of Multiple Recalcitrant Non-Genital Warts.

INTRODUCTION: Warts are the most prevalent clinical manifestation of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infections, which vary in morphological pattern depending on the site of the body affected. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intralesional quadrivalent HPV vaccine versus candida antigen in treatment of multiple recalcitrant non-genital warts. METHODS: A randomized-control clinical trial included 60 cases with multiple recalcitrant warts who were randomly distributed into three groups; Group I included 20 patients who received intralesional candida antigen at a dose of 0.3 mL of 1/1000 solution, Group II included 20 patients who received intralesional quadrivalent HPV vaccine at a dose of 0.3ml and Group III included 20 patients who received intralesional injection 0.3 ml of normal saline 0.9% as a control group). Each agent was injected at the base of the largest wart every three weeks until it was completely cleared, or for a total of four sessions. RESULTS: the highest response rate was detected in the quadrivalent HPV vaccine group (75% complete response) followed by the candida vaccine group (40% complete response and 15% partial response). Also, regarding the distant response rate, the highest response rate was detected in the quadrivalent HPV vaccine group (72.7% complete response and 27.3% partial response) followed by the candida vaccine group (33.3% complete response and 50% partial response). CONCLUSIONS: Intralesional immunotherapy appears to be effective and safe in treating multiple recalcitrant non-genital warts, with intralesional quadrivalent HPV vaccine outperforming intralesional candida antigen.

Chin reinforcement using the hyaluronic acid injectable filler VYC-20L and VYC-25L.

BACKGROUND: The chin is an essential element of the facial unit and influences how people perceive facial aesthetic appeal. Hyaluronic acid (HA) gel injections are tried-and-true therapies for regenerative therapies with a record of success in efficacy and safety. AIMS: To determine the best type of concentration of HA and way of injection for deep and superficial planes of chin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: VYC-20L and VYC-25L (Juvederm Voluma XC® Juvéderm Volux®; Allergan plc) are 20- and 25-mg/mL HA gels with lidocaine, respectively, were injected with cannulas and needles on the bone, respectively. RESULTS: Chin reinforced respecting the measures with good contouring. No serious complications. Patient was satisfied with results. DISCUSSION: We advise using VYC 20L superficially above the muscle or with a cannula for injection, and we recommend using VYC 25L in the supraperiosteal plane.

C-reactive protein as a novel biomarker for vitamin D deficiency in alopecia areata.

BACKGROUND: Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune condition characterized by sudden and unpredictable hair loss, with a lifetime incidence of 2%. AA can be divided into three categories: patchy alopecia, alopecia totalis, and alopecia universalis. It can affect a person's psychological health and overall quality of life. Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in the liver may indicate an inflammatory response in autoimmune diseases. Vitamin D, essential for immune system control and skin health, may be related to AA. Hair follicles contain vitamin D receptors, which control immunological responses in the skin. However, no study has found a relationship between CRP and vitamin D in AA patients in our region. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study with a case-control design research investigation of 82 AA patients and 81 healthy controls was carried out. Both groups' medical histories were taken. Biochemical analysis was done for both groups as well as the serum vitamin D levels, and CRP. Genetic analysis for CDX2 rs11568820 variant detected by PCR (T-ARMS-PCR) method and vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene expression measured by real-time PCR analysis for both patients and healthy subjects. RESULTS: CRP levels are higher in AA patients, AA patients with G/G genotypes exhibited higher concentrations of CRP when compared to those with A/A and A/G genotypes while patients with A/A genotypes have higher levels of Serum vitamin D as compared to the A/G and G/G genotypes. G allele was more abundant in AA patients. VDR gene expression was lower in AA compared to control and lower in ophiasis compared to localized and multiple patchy AA. An important inverse linear correlation was observed between vitamin D and CRP levels in ophiasis AA. CONCLUSION: CRP concentrations were found to be elevated in AA patients. The considerable accuracy of CRP in the diagnosis of AA is substantiated by a statistically significant al. A noteworthy inverse linear association was observed between serum vitamin D and CRP concentrations in ophiasis AA.

Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics Associated with COVID-19 Severity Among Hospitalized Patients in the United Arab Emirates: A Retrospective Multicentre Study.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the clinical and epidemiological factors associated with severe COVID-19 cases in hospitalized patients across two emirates within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). METHODS: A retrospective observational analytical study analysed data from 738 medical records and conducted 573 in-depth interviews with patients hospitalized across multiple healthcare centers in the UAE, between 29 January 2020 and 14 October 2021. Regression analysis predicted risk factors for COVID-19 severity. RESULTS: Main risk factors identified were crowding (aOR 1.919; 95%CI 1.144, 3.221), obesity (aOR 2.383; 95%CI 1.332, 4.263), diabetes (aOR 11.14; 95%CI 2.653-46.797), severe dehydration (aOR 3.219; 95%CI 2.161, 4.795), cough or sore throat (aOR 1.607; 95%CI 1.032, 2.502), shortness of breath (aOR 1.921; 95%CI 1.294, 2.853), increased days from symptom onset to admission (aOR 1.055; 95%CI 1.006, 1.105), elevated ANC (aOR 1.263, 95%CI 1.121, 1.424), and AST/SGOT (aOR 1.055, 95% CI 1.016, 1.095). Protective factors included smoking (aOR 0.367; 95%CI 0.182, 0.740), first dose of COVID-19 vaccination (aOR 0.595; 95%CI 0.377, 0.93), higher oxygen saturation (aOR 0.853; 95%CI: 0.801, 0.907) and elevated ALC (aOR 0.540; 95%CI 0.323, 0.905). CONCLUSION: Identifying risk factors is crucial for high-risk individuals who may require closer monitoring to improve their outcomes. This can provide guidance for surveillance systems and early detection strategies to mitigate the impact of future outbreaks.

Predictive factors of perinatal depression among women with gestational diabetes mellitus in the UAE: a cross-sectional clinical study.

BACKGROUND: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is responsible for the development of 30-50% of type 2 diabetes mellitus that predisposes later to adverse consequences among affected mothers and their offspring. Several studies have suggested that GDM increases the risk of developing perinatal depression (PND); however, factors that are involved in this association are yet to be determined. This study aims to identify factors that interrelate GDM and PND among pregnant and postnatal women in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). METHODS: A total of 186 women between 18 and 45 years old attending the obstetrics clinic during their 3rd trimester or up to 6 months postnatal were recruited between October 2021 and April 2022. Women who were known to have pre-existing diabetes mellitus (type 1 or type 2), kidney disease, liver disease, and those receiving hormonal therapy were excluded. Participants completed a structured questionnaire including sociodemographic data and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Based on their EPDS scores, study participants were categorized into three groups: no depression (> 9), possible depression (9-11), and high possibility/strong positive depression (≥ 12). SPSS 26 was used for data analysis. RESULTS: Among the 186 participants, 81% (n = 151) were Emirati, 41% (n = 76) had no GDM, and 58% (n = 110) had GDM. Of the study participants, 34.4% had a high possibility of strong positive depression, 40.9% had possible depression, and only 6.5% had no depression. The association between GDM and PND was clinically and statistically insignificant, with a calculated odds ratio (OR) of 1.574 (p value = 0.204) and a 95% confidence interval (0.781-3.172). However, age, personal history of depression, and BMI were found to be strong predictors of depression among pregnant/postpartum women in the UAE. CONCLUSIONS: The study findings propose that age, personal history of depression, and obesity are strong predictors of depression during pregnancy. The strong correlation between obesity (which is a known strong predictor of GDM) and PND suggests that further studies with longitudinal designs and longer observational periods might better reveal the relationship between GDM and PND. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Retrospectively registered study by Research Ethics Committees of the University Hospital Sharjah and the University of Sharjah (Ref. No.: UHS-HERC- 025-17122019) December 17, 2019.

Are embryonic stem cell markers and ALDH1A1 relevant in the context of breast cancer estrogen positivity?

BACKGROUND: Embryonic pluripotency markers are recognized for their role in ER- BC aggressiveness, but their significance in ER+ BC remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of expression of pluripotency markers in ER+ BC and their effect on survival and prognostic indicators. METHODS: We analyzed data of ER+ BC patients from three large cancer datasets to assess the expression of three pluripotency markers (NANOG, SOX-2, and OCT4), and the stem cell marker ALDH1A1. Additionally, we investigated associations between gene expression, through mRNA-Seq analysis, and overall survival (OS). The prevalence of mutational variants within these genes was explored. Using immunohistochemistry (IHC), we examined the expression and associations with clinicopathologic prognostic indicators of the four markers in 81 ER+ BC patients. RESULTS: Through computational analysis, NANOG and ALDH1A1 genes were significantly upregulated in ER+ BC compared to ER- BC patients (p < 0.001), while POU5F1 (OCT4) was downregulated (p < 0.001). NANOG showed an adverse impact on OS whereas ALDH1A1 was associated with a highly significant improved survival in ER+ BC (p = 4.7e-6), except for the PR- and HER2+ subgroups. Copy number alterations (CNAs) ranged from 0.4% to 1.6% in these genes, with the highest rate detected in SOX2. In the IHC study, approximately one-third of tumors showed moderate to strong expression of each of the four markers, with 2-4 markers strongly co-expressed in 56.8% of cases. OCT-4 and ALDH1A1 showed a significant association with a high KI-67 index (p = 0.009 and 0.008, respectively), while SOX2 showed a significant association with perinodal fat invasion (p = 0.017). CONCLUSION: Pluripotency markers and ALDH1A1 are substantially expressed in ER+ BC tumors with different, yet significant, associations with prognostic and survival outcomes. This study suggests these markers as targets for prospective clinical validation studies of their prognostic value and their possible therapeutic roles.

Effect of interleukin-12 gene expression on insulin resistance in patients with acne vulgaris.

BACKGROUND: Insulin resistance (IR) is a condition where cells become resistant to insulin, causing impaired glucose uptake and increased blood glucose levels. Interleukin-12 (IL-12), a cytokine, regulates the immune system. High levels of IL-12 can lead to chronic inflammation, exacerbate resistance to insulin, and contribute to type 2 diabetes. Also, link IR to acne vulgaris (AV), as it reduces tissue sensitivity to insulin, causing increased insulin levels and sebum production, which can contribute to acne development. AIM: To explore the role of IL-12 gene expression on IR in AV patients and to study the role of IL-12 gene in the development of AV. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A case-control study was performed on 68 AV patients and 68 healthy controls. The biochemical analysis included fasting glucose, fasting insulin, (HOMA-IR), and serum IL-12 level. IL-12 gene expression was performed by quantitative real-time PCR for both two groups. In addition, folding change was calculated by using the standard 2-(∆∆Ct) method. RESULT: IL-12 level, IL-12 folding change, fasting insulin, and IR were all increased in acne patients. A highly significant linear correlation was found between IL-12 folding change and both IL-12 levels and IR. There is a substantial positive significant simple linear association between IL-12 level and IL-12 folding change, as well as IR and IL-12 folding change, in moderate and severe acne. CONCLUSION: IL-12 gene has an important role in IR and the development of acne in AV patients.

The CDX2 G allele and the FoKI F allele of the VDR gene are more prevalent and related to changes in vitamin D levels in patients with psoriasis vulgaris: A pilot study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious autoimmune condition marked by dry, itchy,erythematous and scaly plaques. From modest, localized plaques to total body coverage, the severity of psoriasis varies. Plaque, guttate, inverted, pustular, and erythrodermic psoriasis are the five primary kinds. About 90% of cases are of plaque psoriasis, commonly known as psoriasis vulgaris. Study aims to determine the impact of an rs2228570 (FokI) variant and an rs11568820 (CDX2) variant on serum vitamin D levels (SVD) in patients with psoriasis, and the correlation between the two variants and disease severity. METHODS: A case-control study consisting of 95 psoriasis vulgaris patients and 84 healthy controls. The clinical investigation, molecular genetics analysis, and biochemical analysis were done for both groups. RESULTS: SVD levels were significantly decreased in psoriasis patients group. FokI genotypes analysis, we found no significant variance between groups. CDX2 G/G genotype is more prevalent in patients than controls. Moderate psoriasis vulgaris patients with CDX2 G/G genotypes have higher SVD levels than CDX2 G/A, and CDX2 A/A p = 0.003. CONCLUSION: The study found a difference in vitamin D levels between patients and healthy subjects, as well as a difference in vitamin D levels with different FoKI and CDX2 genotypes.

The Role of Three-dimensional Printed Models in Women's Health.

Three-dimensional printing is an innovative technology that has gained prominence in recent years due to its attractive features such as affordability, efficiency, and quick production. The technology is used to produce a three-dimensional model by depositing materials in layers using specific printers. In the medical field, it has been increasingly used in various specialties, including neurosurgery, cardiology, and orthopedics, most commonly for the pre-planning of complex surgeries. In addition, it has been applied in therapeutic treatments, patient education, and training wof medical professionals. In the field of obstetrics and gynecology, there is a limited number of studies in which three-dimensional printed models were applied. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of three-dimensional printing applications in the medical field, highlighting the few reported applications in obstetrics and gynecology. We also review all relevant studies and discuss the current challenges and limitations of adopting the technology in routine clinical practice. The technology has the potential to expand for wider applications related to women's health, including patient counseling, surgical training, and medical education.

Apo B-48 gene expression and low-density lipoprotein as a factor for increased insulin resistance and severity of acne.

BACKGROUND: The contribution of insulin to acne is that it stimulates the synthesis of androgenic hormones, which are important in the development of excess sebum, hyperkeratinization, and sebaceous gland cell growth. OBJECTIVE: To ascertain whether the lipid profile abnomalies seen in acne vulgaris are genetically induced, we also seek to establish a link between insulin resistance and lipid profiles. METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study with case-control design research investigation of 72 individuals with acne vulgaris and 72 healthy volunteers was carried out. Both groups' medical histories were taken, as were the severity and duration of the disease among acne sufferers, as well as demographic data. Anthropometry tests were performed on both groups, including their weights, height, and circumference of waist, as well as the profile of lipids, blood glucose levels after a fast, insulin levels during fasting, resistance to insulin, and Apo B-48 folding change. RESULTS: Severe acne vulgaris patients showed significantly increased TG, TC, LDL-C, blood glucose levels after a fast, fasting insulin, and resistance to insulin levels. P = 0.005 showed that Apo B-48 expression increased in patients compared to healthy people. Apo B-48 folding change and insulin resistance were found to have a substantial positive simple linear association. Acne vulgaris, whether mild, moderate, or severe, has a significant positive linear connection with insulin resistance. CONCLUSION: Acne patients had an abnormal in lipid profile. Acne individuals with severe form are more inclined to acquire resistance to insulin as well as higher glucose and insulin levels. Apo B-48 gene expression is elevated in acne individuals with severe form who have lipid abnormalities. This illustrating the importance of genetic variables in acne, insulin resistance, lipid profile modifications as well as Isotretinoin, a standard acne medication, can also cause lipid irregularities.

Role of macrophage scavenger receptor 1 in the progression of dyslipidemia in acne vulgaris patients.

BACKGROUND: Macrophage scavenger receptor 1 gene (MSR1), is responsible for producing macrophage scavenger receptors. MSR1 is primarily located on the surfaces of various macrophage types and is known to exert a range of effects on the human body. These effects include influencing innate and adaptive immunological reactions, as well as contributing to the development of conditions such as atherosclerosis, dyslipidemia, liver and lung disease, and cancer. The unregulated assimilation of lipoproteins by MSR1 leads to the creation of macrophages rich in cholesterol that manifest as foam-like cells, ultimately contributing to dyslipidemia. This occurrence highlights the significance of MSR1 as a key player in the pathophysiology of dyslipidemia. AIM: In this study, we aimed to estimate variation in lipid profile in acne vulgaris (AV) patients. Also, we aimed to investigate the role of MSR1 in lipid profile variation. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A case-control study consisting of 100 patients with AV and 104 healthy controls. Lipid profiles were assessed using normalized enzymatic processes and genotype analyses were performed by a polymerase chain reaction and standard Sanger sequencing. Predictions of variant effects were performed using in silico tools. RESULT: Our results indicated that the levels of lipid profile were higher in patients with AV than in healthy patients. The two haplotypes that were most prevalent in the patients were TCAC (16.5%) and CAGG (15.47%), whereas the two haplotypes that were more prevalent in the controls were TAAC (16.43%) and CCAC (15.62%). IVS5.59 C > A and rs433235 A > G are in linkage disequilibrium. Additionally, rs433235 A > G has a significant linkage disequilibrium with rs3747531 C > G. In silico analysis, tools indicated that the rs433235 A > G variant was disease-causing. CONCLUSION: Patients diagnosed with TCAC and CAGG exhibited a higher prevalence compared to healthy patients with TAAC and CCAC. The linkage disequilibrium between rs433235 A > G and IVS5.59 C > A has been established. Furthermore, there appears to be significant linkage disequilibrium between rs3747531 C > G and rs433235 A > G. These findings support the notion that genetic variations may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of these conditions.

Cutaneous larva migrans: A case report diagnosed using teledermatology.

Teledermatology is a branch of dermatology that transmits medical data over several miles using telecommunications technologies. It involves the diagnosis of skin lesions using digital photographs and related patient data, and it can be especially helpful for patients in remote areas who might not have convenient access to dermatologists. Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a zoonotic parasitic disease found in tropical and subtropical areas that are sunny and hot; however, cases of allocated resources have been disclosed in Saudi Arabia. There is little information about the frequency of CLM as a work-related illness among employees who are exposed to potentially polluted soil or have close contact with pets. In this paper, we present an ancestral case of CLM in Saudi Arabia, explaining the hazards of CLM infection. CLM may pose a challenge for physicians in non-endemic areas regarding assessment, therapeutic interventions, and protection, especially at work. The holistic strategy to CLM assessment, which includes the participation of numerous science competencies (e.g., veterinarians, dermatologists, and occupational physicians), may contribute to a better understanding of the expansion of human CLM and related risk factors, lowering the chance of infection.

The potential role of the gingival crevicular fluid biomarkers in the prediction of pregnancy complications.

Early and minimally invasive methods are required to predict the risk of multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes. A potential technique with growing interest utilizes the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), a physiological serum exudate found in the healthy gingival sulcus and in the periodontal pocket in inflammatory conditions. Analysis of biomarkers in the GCF is a minimally invasive method that can be feasible and cost-effective. The potential use of GCF biomarkers along with other clinical indicators in early pregnancy may provide reliable predictors of several adverse pregnancy outcomes, therefore, reducing both maternal and fetal morbidities. Various studies have reported that increased or decreased concentrations of different biomarkers in GCF are associated with a high risk of developing pregnancy complications. In particular, such associations have been commonly demonstrated with gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and pre-term birth. However, limited evidence is available regarding other pregnancy complications such as preterm premature rupture of membranes, recurrent miscarriage, small for gestational age, and hyperemesis gravidarum. In this review, we discuss the reported association between individual GCF biomarkers and common pregnancy complications. Future research is required to provide more solid evidence of the predictive value of those biomarkers in estimating women's risk for each disorder.

Alterations in lipid and hormonal titers in patients with acne and their relationship with severity: A case-control study.

Background and Aims: Acne is a frequently diagnosed skin condition that causes pilosebaceous apparatus clogs and/or inflammatory responses in the majority of teenagers. It is a multifactorial disease that can develop due to various factors. We aimed to evaluate lipid profiles and hormonal levels in patients with acne and correlate them to acne severity. We also aim to explore the alteration of lipid profiles and hormonal levels and their effect on the occurrence of acne. Methods: A case-control study was performed on 100 individuals with acne vulgaris and 100 healthy controls. The biochemical analysis included; lipid profiles such as triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and hormonal levels such as estradiol (E), total testosterone (TT), and free testosterone (FT) were measured for both patients and controls. Results: Comparison between patients with acne and controls disclosed that; TC, TG, LDL-C, and HDL-C levels were significantly higher in patients, especially when compared to controls (p ≤ 0.05); also, the same results were found in hormonal levels results (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: These altered lipid profiles and androgen levels should be considered in the pathophysiology of acne and taken into consideration when treating patients with acne.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome awareness among females in the UAE: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting females of reproductive age. Clinical guidelines recommend following the diagnostic criteria of PCOS based on an appropriate assessment of the patient's clinical presentation. Sufficient awareness among the population will prompt females to seek medical attention when necessary. This study aimed to assess knowledge and awareness about PCOS among females above the age of 18 years in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and to correlate the level of awareness with women's backgrounds, demographics, and education levels. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in early 2020. 430 females over the age of 18 years were conveniently selected and interviewed in the UAE using a 21-item questionnaire that assessed participants' awareness of PCOS as a term, its causes, symptoms, complications, treatment, and prevention. 414 entries were eligible for data analysis. IBM® SPSS® Statistics version 25 was used for data entry and analysis. RESULTS: 349 participants (84.3%) were familiar with the term PCOS. However, only 21.7% of them had sufficient awareness of the syndrome (95% CI = 17.77-25.71%). Being knowledgeable of PCOS was significantly associated with having a previous diagnosis (p = 0.002) and with studying or working in a medical field (p < 0.001). In addition, females who knew someone diagnosed with PCOS were 5 times more likely to be more aware compared to those who didn't (95% CI = 2.5-10.8; p < 0.001). Age, education level, and nationality showed no correlation with the level of awareness. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the level of PCOS awareness was insufficient in the study sample. Participants whose source of information was medical practitioners demonstrated more accurate knowledge. Accordingly, awareness of PCOS needs to be raised among females in the UAE, aiding early diagnosis and improving patient-oriented outcomes.

Hybrid high- and low-molecular weight chains of hyaluronan is an effective modality treatment for increasing female sexual satisfaction: An interventional, randomized-control parallel study.

Background and Aims: Psychological, behavioral, hormonal, surgical, and psychopharmacologic approaches are the only acknowledged treatments for Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD). The study is conducted to assess the efficacy of hybrid cooperative complexes of high and low molecular weight hyaluronan (hybrid H-HA/L-HA) in treating females with varying of sexual dysfunction and to assess the female genital self-image scale (FGSIS), female sexual function index (FSFI), and dermatology life quality index (DLQI) before and after treatment. Methods: Sixty female patients were divided into two groups. The study group enrolled 30 female patients injected with hybrid H-HA/L-HA, while the control group enrolled 30 female patients injected with saline. Patients were recruited from the clinic searching for medical advice. Controls were selected from close associates of the cases who were attending with the patients or healthy escorts of dermatology patients attending the dermatology outpatient clinic. We assessed socio-demographic, clinical evaluation, the (FGSIS), (FSFI), and (DLQI) before and after treatment. The first assessment was conducted at the first visit, and the second assessment was conducted after 1 month of the second injection. Result: Significant increase in the frequency of sexual intercourse/week in the study group after the first and second injection sessions compared to the controls was observed (p < 0.05). There was statistically significant amelioration in desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction domains, and total score of the FSFI (p ≤ 0.05). The study demonstrated significant increasing differences in all domains of the FGSIS (p ≤ 0.05). The symptoms and feelings, leisure, personal relationships, and total scores were significantly higher post first and second injection of (hybrid H-HA/L-HA) sessions compared to the controls (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The (hybrid H-HA/L-HA) injection for rejuvenating the genital area appears to be a safe and effective way to enhance female genital self-image, sexuality, and quality of life with high levels of satisfaction as a minimally invasive method.

The vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism rs1544410 T/T genotype as a predictor of factor vitamin D thresholds deficiency in patients with psoriasis vulgaris-A preliminary study.

BACKGROUND: Many clinical features of psoriasis include a rash with itchy, scaly patches, most frequently on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. By studying genes involved with psoriasis receptivity, the pathologic pathways of psoriasis become clearer and more understood. AIM: To predict the participation of rs1544410 in serum vitamin D levels (SDL) in psoriasis, psoriasis susceptibility, and severity. PATIENTS/METHODS: One hundred five patients with psoriasis were categorized by body surface area as mild, moderate, and severe. SDL and genetic analysis of rs1544410 were performed using polymerase chain reaction and standard Sanger methods. RESULT: Our findings revealed that SDL were higher in healthy subjects than in patients. The rs1544410 genotype TT was more prevalent in patients, while CT was more prevalent in controls. Our findings revealed that the T alleles were frequently more in the patient group than in the controls. (p ≤ 0.001). While in healthy normal individuals, the C alleles were frequently more (p ≤ 0.001). SDL are lower in patients with the TT genotype. Patients with moderate form of psoriasis have higher SDL than those with mild or severe form. CONCLUSION: rs1544410 polymorphism has been linked to a higher probability of psoriasis and SDL deficiency. However, grander scale studies in a larger number of people are necessary.

TaqI polymorphism T/t genotypes at the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) are associated with increased serum vitamin D levels in mild and moderate psoriasis vulgaris: A pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Several types of polymorphisms in vitamin D receptor (VDR) have been found in psoriasis. AIM: This study looked at the role of the TaqI polymorphism in the VDR gene as a factor in changing plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels in psoriasis patients and to see if it had any relationship with disease severity. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Clinical examination, serum 25(OH)D level measurement, molecular studies and TaqI genotyping by PCR and RFLP were performed for the two groups. RESULTS: The T/t genotypes of TaqI polymorphism genotypes were most common in patients, while the t/t genotypes were more abundant in healthy subjects. The T allele was high in the patient group in comparison with the normal subjects, but there were no significant differences (p = 0.421). Patients with T/t TaqI genotypes had higher levels of 25(OH)D than those with T/T and t/t (p = 0.004). Moderate psoriatic patients with the T/t genotype had relatively high 25(OH)D levels compared with moderate patients with the T/t and t/t genotypes (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: The increase in 25(OH)D titers in moderate patients is greater than that in mild and severe patients. T/t genotypes are associated with increased 25(OH)D levels in moderate and mild patients.