Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in Adolescents and Young Adults: Clinicopathological Variables and Outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) constitute a significant demographic group, particularly in regions with youthful populations like Qatar. Despite the global median age of CML diagnosis being 65 years, Qatar's age distribution reflects a younger cohort. This study investigates whether AYAs with CML exhibit distinct clinicopathological characteristics or outcomes compared to older age groups. METHODS: A total of 224 CML patients were enrolled, including 114 AYAs (defined as ages 15 through 39). Demographic and clinical parameters, including gender, BMI, BCR-ABL1 transcript type, white blood cell (WBC) count, hemoglobin level, platelet count, and spleen size, were compared between AYAs and older patients. Prognostic scoring systems (Sokal, Hasford, EUTOS, and ELTS) and molecular response rates (MMR and DMR) were also evaluated. RESULTS: AYAs demonstrated higher WBC counts at diagnosis (median 142.3 vs. 120; p = 0.037) and lower hemoglobin levels (10.5 vs. 11.40; p = 0.004) compared to older patients. Spleen size was significantly larger in AYAs (18.8 vs. 15.5; p = 0.001). While AYAs showed better prognostic scores by Sokal and Hasford criteria, EUTOS and ELTS scores indicated comparable risk stratification. However, AYAs exhibited lower rates of MMR (56.7% vs. 73.4%; p = 0.016) and achieved MMR at a slower pace (median time 130 vs. 103 months; p = 0.064). Similarly, the percentage of DMR was lower in AYAs (37.1% vs. 46.8%; p = 0.175). CONCLUSION: Despite their younger age, AYAs with CML displayed poorer prognoses compared to older patients. These findings underscore the importance of tailored management strategies for AYAs with CML to optimize outcomes in this distinct patient population.

Nickel augmented biochar for sustaining produced water treatment to decarbonize oil and gas industrial waste using anaerobic-aerobic granular cylindrical periodic discontinuous batch reactors.

This study assessed the efficacy of granular cylindrical periodic discontinuous batch reactors (GC-PDBRs) for produced water (PW) treatment by employing eggshell and waste activated sludge (WAS) derived Nickel (Ni) augmented biochar. The synthesized biochar was magnetized to further enhance its contribution towards achieving carbon neutrality due to carbon negative nature, Carbon dioxide (CO2) sorption, and negative priming effects. The GC-PDBR1 and GC-PDBR2 process variables were optimized by the application of central composite design (CCD). This is to maximize the decarbonization rate. Results showed that the systems could reduce total phosphorus (TP) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) by 76-80% and 92-99%, respectively. Optimal organic matter and nutrient removals were achieved at 80% volumetric exchange ratio (VER), 5 min settling time and 3000 mg/L mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) concentration with desirability values of 0.811 and 0.954 for GC-PDBR1 and GC-PDBR2, respectively. Employing four distinct models, the biokinetic coefficients of the GC-PDBRs treating PW were calculated. The findings indicated that First order (0.0758-0.5365) and Monod models (0.8652-0.9925) have relatively low R2 values. However, the Grau Second-order model and Modified Stover-Kincannon model have high R2 values. This shows that, the Grau Second Order and Modified Stover-Kincannon models under various VER, settling time, and MLSS circumstances, are more suited to explain the removal of pollutants in the GC-PDBRs. Microbiological evaluation demonstrated that a high VER caused notable rises in the quantity of several microorganisms. Under high biological selective pressure, GC-PDBR2 demonstrated a greater percentage of nitrogen removal via autotrophic denitrification and a greater number of nitrifying bacteria. The overgrowth of bacteria such as Actinobacteriota spp. Bacteroidota spp, Gammaproteobacteria, Desulfuromonas Mesotoga in the phylum, class, and genus, has positively impacted on granule formation and stability. Taken together, our study through the introduction of intermittent aeration GC-PDBR systems with added magnetized waste derived biochar, is an innovative approach for simultaneous aerobic sludge granulation and PW treatment, thereby providing valuable contributions in the journey toward achieving decarbonization, carbon neutrality and sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Health-related quality of life in adults with hematological cancer: a 2023 cross-sectional survey from Qatar.

Background: Hematological cancers impose a complex burden on individuals, affecting their physical health and mental and emotional well-being. This study evaluated the health-related Quality of Life (HRQOL) and its determinants among adults with hematological cancers in Qatar in 2023. Methods: A cross-sectional study used a validated structured questionnaire conducted among adult patients diagnosed with hematological cancers. All adult patients who attended The National Centre for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) in Qatar during the Data collection period (January to March 2023) and agreed to participate were included in the study. Results: A total of 257 participants were enrolled in the study. The highest median (IQR) score of the HRQOL domain was observed in the functionating score of 90.6 (13.8), followed by the global health score of 83.3(25. 0). The median (IQR) of the symptoms burden score was 07.4(12.3). Gender significantly affects HRQOL, with males reporting better functioning and lower symptom burden than females. Employment status is positively associated with functioning scores. Regular exercise correlates with higher global health and functioning scores and lower symptom burden, while depressive symptoms are linked to poorer HRQOL outcomes. Patients experiencing cancer recurrence or active disease report lower global health and functioning scores and higher symptom burden. Treatment modalities such as chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant (BMT) timing also influence HRQOL, with recent treatment recipients showing lower global health and higher symptom burden scores. Depressive symptoms were the primary factor, lowering the global health score by 15.2%. Regarding the low functioning score predictors, female gender, depressive symptoms, and cancer recurrence emerged as significant predictors of the low functioning score. Furthermore, Regular exercise increased the functioning score by 03.4 units (p-value=0.018). Finally, Multiple linear regression analysis reinforced the significance of depressive symptoms, active disease status, and recurrence within the past five years as substantial predictors of higher symptom scores. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the profound impact of depressive symptoms on all aspects of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL), mainly affecting global health. It highlights the positive role of regular exercise in enhancing global health, functioning, and symptom burden scores.

The Safety of Novel Therapies in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia in the Era of Intermittent Fasting: A Pharmacology-Based Review.

Intermittent fasting (IF) has recently gained popularity due to its emerging benefits in reducing weight and improving metabolic health. Concurrently, novel agents (NAs) like venetoclax and Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKIs) have revolutionized the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Unfortunately, it is unclear whether the associated risks of tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) and gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) are increased in IF practitioners receiving NAs. This review explored the literature available on the permissibility of IF in CLL patients undergoing treatment with first-line NAs (FLNAs). Literature was scoped to identify IF patterns and the available data on TLS and GIB risks associated with food and fluid intake in CLL patients receiving FLNAs. Although current evidence is insufficient to recommend IF in this population, it may be possible for patients on venetoclax to conservatively practice fluid-liberal IF, provided that adequate hydration and the consistent administration of food are achieved. In contrast, considering the significant risk of TLS and the pharmacokinetics of venetoclax, patients should be discouraged from practicing fluid-restricted IF, especially during the ramp-up phase. Moreover, patients on BTKIs ought to refrain from IF due to the possible risk of GIB until further data are available. Further research is needed to provide conclusive recommendations.

Luspatercept's use in a patient with transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia and intrathoracic extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH).

Key Clinical Message: This case report and literature review examine the use of a relatively novel agent in a transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia patient with extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH). It examines the benefits and risks associated with its use and reviews the available literature while highlighting the drug's results in our patient with a higher risk profile. Abstract: Beta thalassemia can be complicated by EMH, which causes different symptoms based on location and size. Luspatercept is a new agent approved for transfusion-dependent thalassemia and Non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT). Still, its use in patients with EMH was not well studied, and literature showed an increased risk of EMH expansion or development of new masses after its use. We discuss, in this case, the results of luspatercept treatment in a patient with transfusion-dependent thalassemia who is considered high risk for its use due to the patient's specific characteristics (history of symptomatic intrathoracic EMH, previous splenectomy, refusal to use antithrombotic medications). While also highlighting the benefits of using luspatercept regarding decreasing the iron overload and improving hemoglobin levels and examining how it was used safely to manage a transfusion-dependent thalassemia patient with an extramedullary hematopoiesis mass with no adverse events of note.

Potential efficacy of crizanlizumab in treating priapism in sickle cell disease: A case report.

This report documents the treatment of a 41-year-old male with sickle cell disease (SCD) and repeated stuttering priapism using crizanlizumab, which alleviated the priapism but induced a significant vaso-occlusive crisis during the second infusion. Encouragingly, no subsequent vaso-occlusive crises occurred. However, the potential for infusion-related adverse events warrants close supervision. Further research is necessary to explore its full benefits on priapism management.

Cost-effectiveness of l-glutamine versus crizanlizumab for adults with sickle cell disease: model focused on reducing pain episode costs from Qatar's healthcare perspective.

Objectives: Treatment options for preventing vaso-occlusive crises among sickle cell disease patients are on the rise, especially if hydroxyurea treatment has failed. This economic analysis is conducted to assess the comparative clinical effectiveness, safety, and acquisition cost of l-glutamine and crizanlizumab for older adolescents and adults (⩾16 years old) with sickle cell disease in Qatar, with an emphasis on treatment costs and acute pain crises. Methods: We conduct a decision-tree model, where we compare the clinical and economic outcomes of two novel Food and drug administration (FDA)-approved medications which are available in Qatar; l-glutamine and crizanlizumab over a time horizon of 1 year in a hypothetical cohort of adult sickle cell disease patients from a Qatar healthcare perspective. The main outcome is incremental cost per sickle cell disease-related acute pain crises averted. Model clinical parameters were derived from individual drug randomized trials, published literature, whereas cost parameters from Qatar healthcare payer system (2020-2021). A sensitivity analysis was carried out, and the study results were robust around model inputs. Costs were converted to 2020 US dollars. Results: Study results showed that both treatment modalities' costs were the main driver of this analysis, with an average annual cost of the treatments per patient being $189,014 for crizanlizumab (5 mg/kg), $143,798 for crizanlizumab (2.5 mg/kg), and $74,323 for l-glutamine. The probability of no first-time sickle cell disease-related vaso-occlusive crises averted was 0.001/year for glutamine, 0.26/year for crizanlizumab (5 mg/kg), and 0.34/year for crizanlizumab (2.5 mg/kg). Lower dose crizanlizumab (2.5 mg/kg) dominated the higher one (5 mg/kg). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of crizanlizumab (2.5 mg/kg), when compared to l-glutamine was $81,265 per sickle cell disease-related vaso-occlusive crises averted. When comparing crizanlizumab (5 mg/kg) and l-glutamine, crizanlizumab (5 mg/kg) showed higher efficacy, yet the crizanlizumab incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was at $459,620 than l-glutamine. Conclusions: Crizanlizumab (2.5 mg/kg) may be a cost-effective intervention, yet it is not the approved dose for preventing vaso-occlusive crises in adolescents and adults with sickle cell disease. Crizanlizumab (5 mg/kg) was more cost-effective than the approved l-glutamine per sickle cell disease vaso-occlusive crisis prevented. Of note, we primarily focused on modeling acute vaso-occlusive pain, which limited our ability to consider other key outcomes in sickle cell disease.

The characteristics of CALR mutations in myeloproliferative neoplasms: a clinical experience from a tertiary care center in Qatar and a literature review.

BACKGROUND: Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are hematological disorders characterized by abnormal production of myeloid cells due to genetic mutations. Since 2013, researchers have identified somatic mutations in the Calreticulin (CALR) gene, primarily insertions or deletions, in two Philadelphia chromosome-negative MPNs; essential thrombocytosis (ET) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), and occasionally in chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). This study aims to identify the various types of CALR mutations and their impact on CALR-positive MPN patients' clinical manifestations and outcomes. METHODS: A single-center retrospective study was conducted. The data was collected from pre-existing records. The study was carried out on Philadelphia-negative MPN patients who were being followed up on at the NCCCR (National Center for Cancer Care and Research) to assess the clinical manifestation and outcome of disease treatment. All patients included, were followed in our center between January 1, 2008, and November 20, 2021. RESULTS: A total of 50 patients with CALR-positive MPN were reviewed with a median follow-up of three years (1-11). This cohort included 31 (62%) patients with ET, 10 (20%) patients with PMF, and 9 (18%) patients with prefibrotic myelofibrosis (pre-MF). The study involved 38 (76%) male and 12 (24%) female patients. There were 16 (32%) patients diagnosed before the age of 40, 24 (48%) patients diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 60; and 10 (20%) patients diagnosed after the age of 60. Molecular analysis showed 24 (48%) patients with CALR type 1, 21 (42%) patients with CALR type 2, and 5 (10%) patients with none Type 1, none Type 2 CALR mutations. Two patients have double mutations; 1(2%) with none Type 1, none Type 2 CALR and JAK2 mutations, and 1(2%) with CALR type 1 and MPL mutations. The thrombotic events were 3 (6%) venous thromboembolisms, 3 (6%) abdominal veins thromboses, 2 (4%) strokes, and 4 (8%) ischemic cardiac events. Only 4 (8%) patients progressed to Myelofibrosis and were carrying CALR 1 mutations, and 1 (2%) patient progressed to AML with CALR 2 mutation. CONCLUSION: The data shows a significant rise in CALR-positive MPN diagnoses in younger people, emphasizing the need for a better assessment tool to improve disease management and reduce complications.

Integrated approach to understand the multiple natural and anthropogenic stresses on intensively irrigated coastal aquifer in the Mediterranean region.

Understanding the major factors influencing groundwater chemistry and its evolution in irrigation areas is crucial for efficient irrigation management. Major ions and isotopes (δD-H2O together with δ18O-H2O) were used to identify the natural and anthropogenic factors contributing to groundwater salinization in the shallow aquifer of the Wadi Guenniche Plain (WGP) in the Mediterranean region of Tunisia. A comprehensive geochemical investigation of groundwater was conducted during both the low irrigation season (L-IR) and the high irrigation season (H-IR). The results show that the variation range and average concentrations of almost all the ions in both the L-IR and H-IR seasons are high. The groundwater in both seasons is characterized by high electrical conductivity and CaMgCl/SO4 and NaCl types. The dissolution of halite and gypsum, the precipitation of calcite and dolomite, and Na-Ca exchange are the main chemical reactions in the geochemical evolution of groundwater in the Wadi Guenniche Shallow Aquifer (WGSA). Stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen (δ18O-H2O and δD-H2O) indicate that groundwater in WGSA originated from local precipitation. In the H-IR season, the δ18O-H2O and δD-H2O values indicate that the groundwater experienced noticeable evaporation. The enriched isotopic signatures reveal that the WGSA's groundwater was influenced by irrigation return flow and seawater intrusion. The proportions of mixing with seawater were found to vary between 0.12% and 5.95%, and between 0.13% and 8.42% during the L-IR and H-IR seasons, respectively. Irrigation return flow and the associated evaporation increase the dissolved solids content in groundwater during the irrigation season. The long-term human activities (fertilization, irrigation, and septic waste infiltration) are the main drives of the high nitrate-N concentrations in groundwater. In coastal irrigation areas suffering from water scarcity, these results can help planners and policy makers understand the complexities of groundwater salinization to enable more sustainable management and development.

The role of preoperative transfusion in sickle cell disease, a systematic review and meta-analysis.

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to provide guidance on preoperative blood transfusion strategies for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). We included all randomized controlled and observational studies exploring the clinical outcomes of preoperative blood transfusion among patients with SCD compared to the conservative transfusion strategy until 14/09/2022. Sixteen studies involving 3486 participants were analysed. The findings revealed a significantly higher bleeding rate in patients who received preoperative transfusion than those who followed a conservative strategy (RR = 4.32, 95% CI 1.75-10.68, P = 0.002, I2 = 0%). However, the two strategies had no significant differences in other clinical outcomes, such as acute chest syndrome, painful crisis, fever, neurological complications, thrombosis, ICU admission, and mortality. It is important to note that all the included studies had a moderate risk of bias. Preoperative transfusion in SCD was associated with a higher bleeding risk but a similar risk in other outcomes compared to conservative strategies. Notably, the increased bleeding risk observed seldom had clinical significance. We recommend individualizing management strategies, considering the overall positive impact of transfusions in reducing complications. Further high-quality studies are needed to refine recommendations.

Chronic myeloid leukemia diagnosed in pregnancy: management and outcome of 87 patients reported to the European LeukemiaNet international registry.

The management of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) diagnosed during pregnancy is a rare and challenging situation. We report the treatment and outcome of 87 cases diagnosed in chronic phase from 2001-2022 derived from the largest international observational registry, supported by the European LeukemiaNet (ELN), of 400 pregnancies in 299 CML women. Normal childbirth occurred in 76% without an increased rate of birth abnormalities or life-threatening events, including in patients untreated or treated with interferon-α and/or imatinib in 2nd-3rd trimester. The low birth weight rate of 12% was comparable to that seen in the normal population. Elective and spontaneous abortions occurred in 21% and 3%, respectively. The complete hematologic response rate before labor was 95% with imatinib and 47% with interferon only. No disease progression during pregnancy was observed, 28% of the patients switched their therapy at varying times after delivery. Treatment options balance the efficacy and safety for mother and infant: interferon-α can commence in the 1st trimester and continued throughout in cases of good disease control and tolerability. Because of limited placental crossing, selected tyrosine kinase inhibitors (imatinib and nilotinib) seem to be safe and effective options in 2nd and 3rd trimester while hydroxycarbamide offers few benefits.

Trace element pollution tracking in the complex multi-aquifer groundwater system of Al-Hassa oasis (Saudi Arabia) using spatial, chemometric and index-based techniques.

In a global context, trace element pollution assessment in complex multi-aquifer groundwater systems is important, considering the growing concerns about water resource quality and sustainability worldwide. This research addresses multiple objectives by integrating spatial, chemometric, and indexical study approaches, for assessing trace element pollution in the multi-aquifer groundwater system of the Al-Hassa Oasis, Saudi Arabia. Groundwater sampling and analysis followed standard methods. For this purpose, the research employed internationally recognized protocols for groundwater sampling and analysis, including standardized techniques outlined by regulatory bodies such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Average values revealed that Cr (0.041) and Fe (2.312) concentrations surpassed the recommended limits for drinking water quality, posing serious threats to groundwater usability by humans. The trace elemental concentrations were ranked as: Li < Mn < Co < As < Mo < Zn < Al < Ba < Se < V < Ni < Cr < Cu < B < Fe < Sr. Various metal(loid) pollution indices, including degree of contamination, heavy metal evaluation index, heavy metal pollution index, and modified heavy metal index, indicated low levels of groundwater pollution. Similarly, low values of water pollution index and weighted arithmetic water quality index were observed for all groundwater points, signifying excellent groundwater quality for drinking and domestic purposes. Spatial distribution analysis showed diverse groundwater quality across the study area, with the eastern and western parts displaying a less desirable quality, while the northern has the best, making water users in the former more vulnerable to potential pollution effects. Thus, the zonation maps hinted the necessity for groundwater quality enhancement from the western to the northern parts. Chemometric analysis identified both human activities and geogenic factors as contributors to groundwater pollution, with human activities found to have more significant impacts. This research provides the scientific basis and insights for protecting the groundwater system and ensuring efficient water management.

Modified cellulose nanocrystals enhanced polycaprolactone multifunctional films with barrier, UV-blocking and antimicrobial properties for food packaging.

The packaging industry demands improved eco-friendly materials with new and enhanced properties. In this context, bio-nanocomposite films with antimicrobial and UV-shielding properties based on modified cellulose nanocrystals/polycaprolactone (MCNC/PCL) were fabricated via solution casting method, and then food packaging simulation was carried out. CNCs were obtained by acid hydrolysis followed by successful functionalization with Quaternary ammonium surfactant, confirmed by FTIR, XPS, XRD, TEM, and DLS analyses. Furthermore, the morphological, physical, antibacterial, and food packaging properties of all prepared films were investigated. Results showed that the mechanical, UV blocking, barrier properties, and antibacterial activity of all composite films were remarkably improved. Particularly, the addition of 3 wt% MCNC increased the tensile strength and elongation at break by 27.5 % and 20.0 %, respectively. Moreover, the permeability of O2, CO2, and water vapor dramatically reduced by 97.6 %, 96.7 %, and 49.8% compared to the Neat PCL. Further, the UV-blocking properties of the composite films were significantly improved. The antimicrobial properties of MCNC/PCL films showed good antimicrobial properties against S. aureus. Finally, cherry packaged with 1 and 3 wt% MCNC films exhibited satisfactory freshness after 22 days of preservation. Overall, the fabricated PCL nanocomposite films can be utilized in the food packaging industry.

Polycaprolactone composite films infused with hyperbranched polyester/reduced graphene oxide: influence on biodegradability, gas/water transport and antimicrobial properties for sustainable packaging.

Biodegradable polymers have gained great interest as ecofriendly packaging materials. However, addition of suitable fillers to the polymer matrix enhances their barrier and mechanical properties besides gaining new features such as bactericidal activity. This work deals with investigation of mechanical, gas/water transport properties and biodegradability performance of films based on polycaprolactone (PCL) reinforced by 1wt% of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) or modified graphene (mRG). To achieve this goal, nanosheets of RGO were firstly prepared then their surfaces were modified through in situ polymerization of hyperbranched polyester (PES) to obtain mRG. Then PCL was loaded with both fillers, and the nanocomposite films were prepared by a casting technique. Studying of the thermal properties of the films showed that the addition of RGO or mRG had no influence on the crystallinity of the PCL matrix. Although the mechanical characteristics of the PCL did not change when either filler was added, there was an increase in permeability and diffusivity in the presence of the fillers regardless of their composition. Nevertheless, the nanocomposites demonstrated antimicrobial properties against S. aureus and E. coli as models for Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, respectively. The biodegradability test performed on the prepared film PCL, and those containing 1% of the filler, PCL/RGO, and PCL/mRG, emphasized that the film degradation became pronounced after three months for all samples.

Epidemiologic and Clinical Patterns of Malignant Lymphoma in Qatar 2013-2017: A population-based Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Lymphoma, encompassing common non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and less common Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), represents significant hematological malignancies. Advancements in treatment modalities have reshaped survival rates, particularly in NHL. This complexity results in varying outcomes, some requiring extended observation periods and multiple chemotherapy treatments. OBJECTIVE: The primary objective is to explore and compare the overall survival (OS) of HL and NHL at 1, 3, and 5-year follow-ups among adult lymphoma patients in Qatar during January 2013 - December 2017. Further objectives encompass comparing the most prevalent histological types, clinical and epidemiological traits of HL and NHL, as well as secondary aims of assessing clinical features, treatment, response, disease-free survival, and overall survival. METHODS: A retrospective, descriptive study of consecutive cases was conducted at Qatar's NCCCR between 2013 and 2017. Inclusion criteria involved patients ≥18 years old, of any gender and clinical stage at diagnosis, who received chemotherapy and had known outcomes. Descriptive statistics were applied, and survival analysis utilized Kaplan-Meier curves. STATA version 13.0 facilitated data analysis. RESULTS: Between 2013-2017, 414 individuals in Qatar were diagnosed with lymphoma. The median age at diagnosis was 49 years (IQR 36-95 years; p<0.001) across all patients. Males exhibited a higher likelihood of developing HL and NHL, comprising 74% and 70% of cases respectively, though this difference was statistically insignificant (p=0.45). Among NHL-B subtypes, mature B-cell neoplasms (60%) predominated, while Lymphocyte-rich subtype (49%) was prominent in HL cases. With a median follow-up of 17.3 months, OS rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 99%, 82%, and 64% respectively for all lymphoma patients. Subtype stratification revealed trends in 3-year follow-up OS (94% versus 82%) for HL and NHL, with 5-year OS of 67% and 60% respectively. HL demonstrated higher OS throughout the study period compared to NHL (p<0.001), though median OS remained unreached. CONCLUSIONS: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma emerged as the most prevalent subtype among lymphomas in Qatar. Generally, HL exhibited superior survival rates, at 67% compared to 60% for NHL. Minor deflation in survival rates, particularly for HL, might be attributed to Qatar's immigration patterns.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Does Not Exclude Polycythemia Vera: A Case Report.

Introduction: Polycythemia vera (PV) is one of the myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) diagnosed by World Health Organization (WHO) criteria 2016, which requires the presence of 3 major criteria: high hemoglobin/hematocrit, bone marrow findings, and Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2) mutation or two major and one minor criteria, including erythropoietin (EPO) level. However, in clinical practice, difficulties in diagnosis can arise as it may be masked by secondary causes for erythrocytosis such as smoking or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Case Presentation: Here, we report a 55-year-old gentleman, morbidly obese with OSA on home continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, who was incidentally found to have polycythemia. Further evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of PV. Conclusion: PV can be masked by the assumption of secondary polycythemia based on history. This underscores the importance of screening such cohort through JAK2 and EPO testing to avoid missing PV.

Safety and Efficacy of Asciminib in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Patient with Chronic Kidney Diseases: A Case Report.

Introduction: Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is characterized by the presence of the BCR::ABL1 fusion gene, and the advent of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has revolutionized its therapeutic landscape. Asciminib, a STAMP inhibitor, emerges as a promising option for patients unresponsive or intolerant to multiple conventional TKIs. However, the safety and efficacy of asciminib in individuals with chronic kidney disease remain understudied. Case Presentation: In this report, we detail the case of a 62-year-old patient with CML and stage 3 chronic kidney disease, who faced intolerance to traditional TKIs primarily due to fluid retention. The transition to asciminib therapy resulted in a profound molecular response and did not exacerbate renal function, effectively addressing the fluid retention issue. Conclusion: This case highlights the potential of asciminib as a viable therapeutic alternative for CML patients with chronic kidney disease, particularly those intolerant to standard TKIs. Further research is warranted to establish the broader safety and efficacy profile of asciminib in this patient population.

An innovative approach for predicting groundwater TDS using optimized ensemble machine learning algorithms at two levels of modeling strategy.

Groundwater salinization in coastal aquifers is a major socioeconomic challenge in Oman and many other regions worldwide due to several anthropogenic activities and natural drivers. Therefore, assessing the salinization of groundwater resources is crucial to ensure the protection of water resources and sustainable management. The aim of this study is to apply a novel approach using predictive optimized ensemble trees-based (ETB) machine learning models, namely Catboost regression (CBR), Extra trees regression (ETR), and Bagging regression (BA), at two levels of modeling strategy for predicting groundwater TDS as an indicator for seawater intrusion in a coastal aquifer, Oman. At level 1, ETR and CBR models were used as base models or inputs for BA in level 2. The results show that the models at level 1 (i.e., ETR and CBR) yielded satisfactory results using a limited number of inputs (Cl, K, and Sr) from a few sets of 40 groundwater wells. The BA model at level 2 improved the overall performance of the modeling by extracting more information from ETR and CBR models at level 1 models. At level 2, the BA model achieved a significant improvement in accuracy (MSE = 0.0002, RSR = 0.062, R2 = 0.995 and NSE = 0.996) compared to each individual model of ETR (MSE = 0.0007, RSR = 0.245, R2 = 0.98 and NSE = 0.94), and CBR (MSE = 0.0035, RSR = 0.258, R2 = 0.933 and NSE = 0.934) at level 1 models in the testing dataset. BA model at level 2 outperformed all models regarding predictive accuracy, best generalization of new data, and matching the locations of the polluted and unpolluted wells. Our approach predicts groundwater TDS with high accuracy and thus provides early warnings of water quality deterioration along coastal aquifers which will improve water resources sustainability.

Management of transfusion-dependent ß-thalassemia (TDT): Expert insights and practical overview from the Middle East.

ß-Thalassemia is one of the most common monogenetic diseases worldwide, with a particularly high prevalence in the Middle East region. As such, we have developed long-standing experience with disease management and devising solutions to address challenges attributed to resource limitations. The region has also participated in the majority of clinical trials and development programs of iron chelators and more novel ineffective erythropoiesis-targeted therapy. In this review, we provide a practical overview of management for patients with transfusion-dependent ß-thalassemia, primarily driven by such experiences, with the aim of transferring knowledge to colleagues in other regions facing similar challenges.

Linear and nonlinear optical parameters of biodegradable chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol/sodium montmorillonite nanocomposite films for potential optoelectronic applications.

Innovations in sophisticated optoelectronic devices have increased interest in high-refractive index polymers. Herein, we report innovative nanocomposite films with high linear and nonlinear refractive indices prepared by casting chitosan (Cs) with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (50:50 wt%) along with different concentrations (10-50 wt%) of sodium montmorillonite (NaMMT) nanoclay. The refractive indices in addition to other optical parameters of homopolymers and hybrid materials were investigated by UV-Vis. spectroscopy and optical modeling to assess their potential applications in optics. Besides, the structure, morphology, and thermal stability of the prepared films were investigated by a multitude of experimental techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG). The ATR-FTIR, XRD, SEM, and AFM measurements confirmed the complete exfoliation of NaMMT nanolayers in the Cs/PVA matrix. The TGA/DTG revealed an increase in the thermal stability of Cs/PVA film with increasing clay content. The UV-Vis. measurements revealed a decrease in the optical energy gap (Eg) and a substantial increase in the linear (nD) and nonlinear (n2) refractive indices as clay content increased. Additionally, the nanohybrids displayed low UV transmission and reflected about 80 % of UV rays, making them excellent candidates for UV protection. For the first time, the dissipation factor (tanδ) in the UV/Vis. region has been calculated and fitted with the Drude-Lorentz model to predict the plasma frequency (ωp), resonance frequency (ω0), and electron lifetime (τ) of pristine polymers and nanocomposites.