Effect of balloon dilatation among adult population with eustachian tube dysfunction: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of ballon dilation of the eustachian tube (BDET) in adult population suffering from Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). METHODS: Following PRISMA criteria, a systematic review was conducted by searching PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases from January 2015 to March 2024. The primary outcomes included Eustachian Tube Score (ETS), tympanometry, and Valsalva maneuver. The quality of studies was assessed using the Quality in Prognostic Studies (QUIPS) instrument. RESULTS: Overall, 11 studies were incorporated into the systematic review: two RCTs, three prospective investigations, and six retrospective studies. The balloon dilation in all investigations was performed using either Spiggle & Theis or Acclarent catheters for balloon dilation. There was heterogeneity across studies examining the effect of BDET on persistent ETD in terms of patient selection, period of follow-up, administration of conservative or surgical therapies, and use of assessment methods. Overall, the treatment yielded alleviation of symptoms, which either exhibited stability over time or demonstrated further improvement after an average duration of follow-up. Moreover, the incidence of complications was categorized as low and resolving spontaneously. The majority of the studies exhibited a high risk of bias related to confounding variables, and consequently, the overall risk of bias across most studies was considered high. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest BDET holds promise for ETD treatment, reducing symptom severity with minimal complications. Nonetheless, there is a need for improved studies that adhere to established indications, methodologies, and outcomes to establish a more robust body of evidence.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of Caralluma fimbriata for antioxidant and diabetes management: a 28-day rat model study.

This study evaluated the anti-oxidant and anti-diabetic potential of Caralluma fimbriata (CF) in 28-days rat modelling trial. Diabetes is a chronic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels and insulin resistance and cause microvascular and macrovascular issues. Caralluma fimbriata was evaluated for its nutritional composition along with anti-oxidant potential of CF powder (CFP) and CF extract (CFE) using total phenolic contents (TPC), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. Furthermore, anti-diabetic potential was computed by dividing rats into four groups of 5 individuals each. Rats of Group I was non-diabetic and no supplementation was given while rats of group II were diabetic and no supplementation was given. While group III and group IV rats were diabetic and received CFP and CFE supplementation respectively. CF powder's TPC, and DPPH and FRAP activity were observed maximum at 44.17 ± 0.006 (µgFe/g) in water, 68.75 ± 0.49 (µgFe/g) in acetone and 800.81 ± 0.99 (µgFe/g) in hexane. Supplementation of CFP and CFE reduced blood glucose effectively i.e. (125.00 ± 4.04 and 121.00 ± 4.49 mg/dL, respectively). Moreover, the consumption of C. fimbriata can be helpful in the management of diabetes mellitus due to its glucose lowering potential, anorexic effects, anti-oxidant potential and α-amylase inhibition.

Understanding Parental Intentions for COVID-19 Child Vaccination: A Cross-Sectional Study From Jordan Using Theory of Planned Behavior.

Introduction: Using the Theory of Planned Behavior, this study addresses the factors that influence parental intentions to vaccinate their 12- to 17-year-old children against COVID-19. The study looked at how attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and fear of the COVID-19 vaccine impact these intentions. Methods: Between November and December 2021, 396 Jordanian parents completed an anonymous online survey. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used for analyzing the relationships. Results: While 94.7% of children had received routine vaccinations, only 23.5% intended to vaccinate their children against COVID-19, indicating a vaccine acceptance gap. The analysis revealed that attitudes are the most significant positive predictor of vaccination intent, accounting for 75% of the variance. Subjective norms had a positive influence on parents' decisions, whereas fear of the COVID-19 vaccine was a significant barrier. Perceived behavioral control had a small but negative effect, indicating significant challenges to vaccination. Conclusion: The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) clarifies numerous factors that influence parents' decisions to immunize their children against COVID-19. Understanding these factors is critical for narrowing the gap between high rates of routine vaccinations and low rates of COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as developing effective strategies to increase vaccine acceptance among parents.

Examining the association between emotional intelligence and chatbot utilization in education: A cross-sectional examination of undergraduate students in the UAE.

Background: While Emotional Intelligence (EI) demonstrably affects academic success, literature lacks exploration of how implementing chatbot in education might influence both academic performance and students' emotional intelligence, despite the evident potential of such technology. Aim: To investigate the associations between Emotional Intelligence (EI), chatbot utilization among undergraduate students. Methods: A cross-sectional approach was employed, utilizing a convenience sample of 529 undergraduate students recruited through online questionnaires. The participants completed the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire and modified and a modified versions of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. Results: of the 529 participants, 83.6 % (n = 440) of participants regularly used chatbot for learning. Students demonstrated a moderate average EI score (129.60 ± 50.15) and an exceptionally high score (89.61 ± 20.70) for chatbot acceptance and usage. A statistically significant (p < 0.001) positive correlation was found between chatbot usage frequency and EI total score. Gender and major emerged as significant factors, with female students (p < 0.05) and health science students (p < 0.05) utilizing chatbot less compared to male and other major students, respectively. A negative correlation (r = -0.111, p = 0.011) was observed between study hours and chatbot usage, suggesting students with higher study hours relied less on chatbot. Conclusions: The positive correlation between chatbot use and EI in this study sparks promising avenues for enhancing the learning experience. By investing in further research to understand this link and integrate AI tools thoughtfully, policymakers and educators can cultivate a learning environment that prioritizes both academic excellence and student well-being, reflecting the values and perspectives of UAE culture.

Insights into Colorectal Cancer Screening Awareness: A Study in the Community of Taif City.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is highly prevalent among Saudi males and females. Understanding its symptoms, risk factors, and screening is vital. This study aims to gauge CRC awareness in Taif City, Saudi Arabia, based on demographics. An observational study in Taif City surveyed awareness on colorectal screening, gathering data from March-April 2023 via a questionnaire covering demographics, screening knowledge, symptoms, and risk factors. Involving 551 participants, most were 19-40 years old (59.2%), female (65.9%), and had a bachelor's degree (71.3%). Notably, 49.2% hadn't visited a family doctor. Awareness on CRC screening was low. 37.7% knew about fecal occult blood tests, 32.7% about sigmoidoscopy, and 34.8% about colonoscopy. Only 27.6% knew the recommended screening age, and 2.4% the frequency. Participants sought information mainly online (45.7%) or from friends (24.1%). Recognized risk factors included family history (57.0%), blood in stool (58.8%), and abdominal pain (47.9%). The study highlights inadequate awareness about CRC screening in Taif. It underscores the necessity for targeted education campaigns, collaboration with healthcare professionals, and diverse information sources to improve understanding among the population.

Metagenomic 16S rRNA analysis and predictive functional profiling revealed intrinsic organohalides respiration and bioremediation potential in mangrove sediment.

BACKGROUND: Mangrove sediment microbes are increasingly attracting scientific attention due to their demonstrated capacity for diverse bioremediation activities, encompassing a wide range of environmental contaminants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The microbial communities of five Avicennia marina mangrove sediment samples collected from Al Rayyis White Head, Red Sea (KSA), were characterized using Illumina amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA genes. RESULTS: Our study investigated the microbial composition and potential for organohalide bioremediation in five mangrove sediments from the Red Sea. While Proteobacteria dominated four microbiomes, Bacteroidetes dominated the fifth. Given the environmental concerns surrounding organohalides, their bioremediation is crucial. Encouragingly, we identified phylogenetically diverse organohalide-respiring bacteria (OHRB) across all samples, including Dehalogenimonas, Dehalococcoides, Anaeromyxobacter, Desulfuromonas, Geobacter, Desulfomonile, Desulfovibrio, Shewanella and Desulfitobacterium. These bacteria are known for their ability to dechlorinate organohalides through reductive dehalogenation. PICRUSt analysis further supported this potential, predicting the presence of functional biomarkers for organohalide respiration (OHR), including reductive dehalogenases targeting tetrachloroethene (PCE) and 3-chloro-4-hydroxyphenylacetate in most sediments. Enrichment cultures studies confirmed this prediction, demonstrating PCE dechlorination by the resident microbial community. PICRUSt also revealed a dominance of anaerobic metabolic processes, suggesting the microbiome's adaptation to the oxygen-limited environment of the sediments. CONCLUSION: This study provided insights into the bacterial community composition of five mangrove sediments from the Red Sea. Notably, diverse OHRB were detected across all samples, which possess the metabolic potential for organohalide bioremediation through reductive dehalogenation pathways. Furthermore, PICRUSt analysis predicted the presence of functional biomarkers for OHR in most sediments, suggesting potential intrinsic OHR activity by the enclosed microbial community.

Specific discrimination of pathogenic bacteria causing septic arthritis using Raman spectroscopy: In-vitro study.

In this study we performed preliminary experiments using Raman spectroscopy as an evolving technology in biofluid and microbial characterization, to explore its potential for rapid diagnosis of pathogenic bacteria in an in-vitro synovial fluid infection model. Normal human synovial fluids samples were collected from patients undergoing knee surgery and the three most common pathogenic bacteria introduced in-vitro into the samples. The bacterial growth was systematically monitored using a Raman spectroscopy. Multivariate regression analysis of acquired spectra showed bacterial characteristic Raman bands related to bacterial cell membranes and DNA structures to increase continuously as the incubation period was increased. Spectra signature recorded from cultured synovial fluid samples showed a significant loss in synovial quality and protein morphology over time compared to control samples. In this study, Raman spectroscopy shows promise for rapid pathogenic bacteria identification in synovial fluid. Marker peaks distinguished inoculated bacteria, while chemical changes reveal infection dynamics.

Bio-Inspired Sensory Receptors for Artificial-Intelligence Perception.

In the era of artificial intelligence (AI), there is a growing interest in replicating human sensory perception. Selective and sensitive bio-inspired sensory receptors with synaptic plasticity have recently gained significant attention in developing energy-efficient AI perception. Various bio-inspired sensory receptors and their applications in AI perception are reviewed here. The critical challenges for the future development of bio-inspired sensory receptors are outlined, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to overcome hurdles in sensor design, integration, and scalability. AI perception can revolutionize various fields, including human-machine interaction, autonomous systems, medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, industrial optimization, and assistive technologies. As advancements in bio-inspired sensing continue to accelerate, the promise of creating more intelligent and adaptive AI systems becomes increasingly attainable, marking a significant step forward in the evolution of human-like sensory perception.

Community Awareness About Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) in the Western and Southern Regions of Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a disorder in which the hip joint does not develop normally in the pediatric age group. It is caused by a confluence of hereditary and environmental factors. We aimed to examine knowledge and awareness of DDH among the general population of the southern and western regions of Saudi Arabia. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted in the western and southern regions of Saudi Arabia. This study included adult male and female participants above 18 years of age. Data were collected using a validated electronic questionnaire that was disseminated via social media platforms. All data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 23.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). RESULTS: In this study, 1,232 participants were surveyed in Saudi Arabia. The majority were between 21 and 30 years old (663, 53.8%), unmarried (690, 56%), and had a baccalaureate or diploma certificate (886, 71.9%). Regarding knowledge of DDH, 86.4% of participants had poor knowledge of the causes of DDH, and 740 (60%) had poor overall knowledge of DDH. However, 492 (40%) participants had good knowledge. Respondents with a higher monthly income, those who were mothers, and those who obtained information from social media had a better awareness level. Concerning treatment, 531 (43.1%) participants were unsure about the best treatment for DDH, and 850 (69%) believed that early treatment was better. CONCLUSIONS: According to our literature, DDH is highly prevalent among Saudi populations. However, our findings indicate that the majority of the Saudi population residing in the western and southern regions of Saudi Arabia lacks basic knowledge of DDH. All capable facilities, such as medical schools, hospitals, and primary healthcare centers, must impart cultural education about DDH to address this awareness gap.

ARISE I Consensus Review on the Management of Intracranial Aneurysms.

BACKGROUND: Intracranial aneurysms (IAs) remain a challenging neurological diagnosis associated with significant morbidity and mortality. There is a plethora of microsurgical and endovascular techniques for the treatment of both ruptured and unruptured aneurysms. There is no definitive consensus as to the best treatment option for this cerebrovascular pathology. The Aneurysm, Arteriovenous Malformation, and Chronic Subdural Hematoma Roundtable Discussion With Industry and Stroke Experts discussed best practices and the most promising approaches to improve the management of brain aneurysms. METHODS: A group of experts from academia, industry, and federal regulators convened to discuss updated clinical trials, scientific research on preclinical system models, management options, screening and monitoring, and promising novel device technologies, aiming to improve the outcomes of patients with IA. RESULTS: Aneurysm, Arteriovenous Malformation, and Chronic Subdural Hematoma Roundtable Discussion With Industry and Stroke Experts suggested the incorporation of artificial intelligence to capture sequential aneurysm growth, identify predictors of rupture, and predict the risk of rupture to guide treatment options. The consensus strongly recommended nationwide systemic data collection of unruptured IA radiographic images for the analysis and development of machine learning algorithms for rupture risk. The consensus supported centers of excellence for preclinical multicenter trials in areas such as genetics, cellular composition, and radiogenomics. Optical coherence tomography and magnetic resonance imaging contrast-enhanced 3T vessel wall imaging are promising technologies; however, more data are needed to define their role in IA management. Ruptured aneurysms are best managed at large volume centers, which should include comprehensive patient management with expertise in microsurgery, endovascular surgery, neurology, and neurocritical care. CONCLUSIONS: Clinical and preclinical studies and scientific research on IA should engage high-volume centers and be conducted in multicenter collaborative efforts. The future of IA diagnosis and monitoring could be enhanced by the incorporation of artificial intelligence and national radiographic and biologic registries. A collaborative effort between academic centers, government regulators, and the device industry is paramount for the adequate management of IA and the advancement of the field.

Attitudes and Practices of Female University Students in Saudi Arabia Regarding the Cosmetic Use of Careprost (Bimatoprost) Eye Drops.

Background and objective Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution (0.03%) is used for the treatment of ocular hypertension. However, one of the side effects of this prescription is that it causes overgrowth of eyelashes, causing hypertrichosis. Therefore, the Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution was rebranded to be used for cosmetic purposes. This study aims to assess the awareness and practices of female university students regarding the use of Careprost (Bimatoprost, Latisse, Allergan, Inc., Irvine, CA) for cosmetic purposes. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among female students at Bisha University, including those from medical and non-medical colleges, spanning from November 2022 to February 2023. All participants who completed the study questionnaire were considered for analysis, but those who had missing answers were excluded from the study. The total number of participants was 305, representing an 81.2% response rate out of the 376 surveys distributed. Results A total of 305 students completed the survey, with approximately 132 (54.5%) from the medical college and 173 (65.3%) from the non-medical college. Approximately 32 (24.2%) of participants from the medical college and 51 (29.4%) from the non-medical college understood that Bimatoprost drops can be used for the elongation of eyelashes. More than half of the participants were not aware of the side effects of Careprost (0.03%), including 65 (49.2%) medical students and 108 (62.7%) non-medical students. In total, 42 (13.77%) of the participants believed that Careprost (0.03%) could be administered without a prescription. Among the participants, 75 (24.59%) reported that they had previously used Careprost (0.03%) eye drops. Additionally, more than one-fourth of the participants (83, 27.2%) thought that Careprost (0.03%) could be used for eyelash elongation. Conclusions This study revealed that female university students had a poor level of awareness and practices about the cosmetic uses of Careprost (0.03%) eye drops for eyelashes. A better awareness level was noted regarding the side effects of Careprost drops, which may have contributed to a low utilization rate among female students.

Predator metamorphosis and its consequence for prey risk assessment.

Living with a diverse array of predators provides a significant challenge for prey to learn and retain information about each predator they encounter. Consequently, some prey respond to novel predators because they have previous experience with a perceptually similar predator species, a phenomenon known as generalization of predator recognition. However, it remains unknown whether prey can generalize learned responses across ontogenetic stages of predators. Using wood frog tadpole (Lithobates sylvaticus) prey, we conducted two experiments to explore the extent of predator generalization of different life stages of two different predators: (1) predacious diving beetles (Dytiscus sp.) and (2) tiger salamanders (Ambystoma mavortium). In both experiments, we used chemical alarm cues (i.e., injured conspecific cues) to condition tadpoles to recognize the odor of either the larval or adult stage of the predator as risky. One day later, we tested tadpoles with either the larval or adult predator odor to determine whether they generalized their learned responses to the other life stages of the predator. Tadpoles generalized between larval and adult beetle odors but failed to generalize between larval and adult salamander odors. These results suggest that the odor of some predator species changes during metamorphosis to an extent that reduces their recognisability by prey. This "predator identity reset" increases the number of threats to which prey need to attend.

Geochemical processes, salinity sources and utility characterization of groundwater in a semi-arid region of Iraq through geostatistical and isotopic techniques.

Identifying factors contributing to water salinity is paramount in efficiently managing limited water resources in arid environments. The primary objective of this study is to enhance understanding regarding the hydrochemistry, source, and mechanism of water salinity, as well as to assess the suitability of water for various uses in southern Iraq. The groundwater samples were collected from water wells and springs and analyzed for major cations and anions along with stable isotopes (δ18O and δ2H) to accomplish the objective. The analysis of major ion chemistry, hydrochemical techniques, principal component analysis (PCA), and isotope signatures were adopted to determine the primary factors contributing to water mineralization. The study inferred that evaporation and geological processes encompassing water-rock interactions, such as dissolution precipitation and ion exchange, were key processes. The stable isotope analysis revealed that the water originated from meteoric sources and underwent significant evaporation during or before infiltration. The utility assessment of water samples indicates that most samples are not appropriate for consumption and are significantly below the established standards for potable water. In contrast, a significant portion of the groundwater samples were found to meet the criteria for irrigation suitability by adopting Wilcox and the US Salinity Laboratory criteria. The groundwater could be considered for irrigation with proper salinity control management. Overall, this study has significantly improved the understanding of the hydrogeochemical regimes and acts as a first step toward the sustainable utilization of water resources.

Bio-Inspired Photosensory Artificial Synapse Based on Functionalized Tellurium Multiropes for Neuromorphic Computing.

Nanomaterials like graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides are being explored for developing artificial photosensory synapses with low-power optical plasticity and high retention time for practical nervous system implementation. However, few studies are conducted on Tellurium (Te)-based nanomaterials due to their direct and small bandgaps. This paper reports the superior photo-synaptic properties of covalently bonded Tellurium sulfur oxide (TeSOx ) and Tellurium selenium oxide (TeSeOx )nanomaterials, which are fabricated by incorporating S and Se atoms on the surface of Te multiropes using vapor deposition. Unlike pure Te multiropes, the TeSOx and TeSeOx multiropes exhibit controllable temporal dynamics under optical stimulation. For example, the TeSOx multirope-based transistor displays a photosensory synaptic response to UV light (λ = 365 nm). Furthermore, the TeSeOx multirope-based transistor exhibits photosensory synaptic responses to UV-vis light (λ = 365, 565, and 660 nm), reliable electrical performance, and a combination of both photodetector and optical artificial synaptic properties with a maximum responsivity of 1500 AW-1 to 365 nm UV light. This result is among the highest reported for Te-heterostructure-based devices, enabling optical artificial synaptic applications with low voltage spikes (1 V) and low light intensity (21 µW cm-2 ), potentially useful for optical neuromorphic computing.

Anxiety-Related Factors Associated With Symptom Severity in Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND:  This study in Jazan, Saudi Arabia aims to identify anxiety-related factors associated with symptom severity in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder causing abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. The prevalence of IBS in Saudi Arabia is estimated to be 10%-20% among the general population. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine anxiety-related factors associated with symptom severity in irritable bowel syndrome in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Understanding these factors will provide insights into the overall impact of IBS on patients' quality of life. METHODS: The study utilized a cross-sectional, descriptive observational design to examine the general population in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The sample size of 385 individuals was calculated based on the population size and desired error margin. A convenience sampling technique was employed to select participants who met the inclusion criteria. A validated anonymous self-administered electronic survey was distributed through social media channels. The survey consisted of four sections gathering demographic information, personal risk factors, IBS types with anxiety and risk factors, and a questionnaire to determine the level of anxiety. A pilot study was conducted to improve the survey's clarity. Ethical considerations were followed, and data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Descriptive statistics and significance tests were performed. RESULT: A study with 637 participants found a 31.08% prevalence of IBS, which was more common in females. Participants with IBS had a higher rate of chronic disease. There were no significant differences in demographic factors between IBS and non-IBS participants. The duration of IBS diagnosis varied, with the majority of IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) sufferers being diagnosed five years prior. Symptom severity differed among IBS types, with those with an unspecified type reporting the highest percentage of severe symptoms. IBS types were also correlated with anxiety levels, with IBS-D sufferers reporting moderate anxiety and those with an unspecified type reporting severe anxiety. CONCLUSION: A study with 637 participants found the prevalence of IBS to be 31.08%, with higher rates in females. IBS was associated with chronic diseases and higher anxiety levels. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive management of IBS, including psychological interventions and dietary modifications, to improve patients' overall health and quality of life. Further research on genetic and modifiable risk factors is needed.

Adverse Impact of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus on Pregnancy Outcomes: A Saudi Arabia Retrospective Multi-Center Study.

Objective: The current study aimed to determine the pregnancy outcomes complications in patients with SLE and its association with clinical, laboratory variables, disease activity, and medication use in the Saudi population, as well as pregnancy effect on disease activity. Methods: A multicenter study included pregnant female patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) from three tertiary centers in Saudi Arabia. The demographics, clinical, and laboratory variables, SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI), medication before, during, and after pregnancy, planned pregnancy, pregnancy-related outcomes, and complications in comparison to age-matched healthy female controls were noted. Results: A total of 66 pregnant patients with SLE and 93 healthy age-matched pregnant controls were included in the study. A total of 77.3% had SLEDAI-2K ≤ 4 before conception, and 84.85% of pregnancies were planned. Age of conception, cesarean section, miscarriage, and low birth weight were statistically significant (p <0.05) higher in SLE patients than in healthy controls. Among all clinical and laboratory variables, SLEDAI-2K > 4 and active lupus nephritis during pregnancy were statistically associated with adverse outcomes (p <0.05), history of lupus nephritis was not associated with statistically adverse pregnancy outcomes. Higher SLEDAI-2K > 4 was an independent risk at least 4.87 times higher association with adverse pregnancy outcomes. (p <0.05). Conclusion: SLE is intricately connected with unfavorable pregnancy outcomes. The preconception of high disease activity stands as a pivotal risk factor for adverse outcomes. Despite the disease remission and meticulous planning, SLE patients frequently grapple with disease exacerbations during pregnancy, culminating in unexpected and unfavorable pregnancy-related outcomes. This underscores the intricate and multifaceted nature of managing SLE during gestation.

Psychological Impact and Quality of Life in Adults With Tinnitus: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Tinnitus may directly or indirectly influence professional, personal, and leisure activities and disrupt family and social relationships in severe cases. This study aimed to explore the impact of tinnitus on the quality of life (QoL) and psychological well-being among Saudi Arabian adults. METHODS: This study used a cross-sectional design to collect data from adults experiencing tinnitus. Data collection took place between September 5, 2023 and October 7, 2023 at King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. The study involved adults aged 18 to 65 with tinnitus. Participants were recruited from audiology clinics. A multi-stage stratified random sampling method was used to recruit the study participants. The severity of tinnitus handicap was assessed using the 25-item Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) questionnaire. THI consists of 25 items divided into functional, emotional, and catastrophic subscales. The total score ranges from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating greater tinnitus-related handicap. THI scores are categorized into 0-16, 18-36, 38-56, 58-76, and 78-100. RESULTS:  A total of 163 participants were included in this study. The largest age group category was 18-29 years, comprising 57.05% (n = 93) of the sample. The study included a slightly higher percentage of female participants (65.03%, n = 106). More than three-fifths (61.96% ) of the participants were from the Western Region (n = 101), 91.40% (n = 149) were Saudi nationals, 55.21% (n = 90) were single, 67.5% (n = 110) had university education, 46.0% (n = 75) had income less than 500 SAR, 44.78% (n =73) was employed, and 74.23% (n = 121) did not smoke. Tinnitus hurts emotions and QoL. The largest proportion of the studied patients with tinnitus faced catastrophic handicaps (24.5%, n = 40), and nearly equal proportions experienced mild and moderate handicaps (23.3%, n = 38 and 23.9%, n =39, respectively). Severe handicap was reported in 15.3% (n = 25), while a slight effect was reported in (12.9%, n = 21). Tinnitus affected their hearing (36.81%, n = 60); interfered with daily life (33.74%, n = 55), social activities (30.06%, n = 49), social relationships (29.45%, n = 48), and concentration (37.42%, n = 61); caused fatigue (38.04%, n = 62) and sleep disturbances (36.81%, n = 60); and prevented them from enjoying life (25.77%, n = 42). Tinnitus caused anger (47.85%, n = 78), confusion (42.94%, n = 70), anxiety (43.56%, n = 71), feeling unsafe (33.74%, n = 55), desperation (36.81%, n = 60), frustration (30.06%, n = 49), being upset (38.04%, n = 62), experiencing depression (30.67%), and challenges in coping with stress (31.29%). There was a significant association between the THI score and region of residence (p = 0.02), income (p = 0.041), occupation (p = 0.013), and smoking (p = 0.014). CONCLUSIONS: Our research underscored the profound impact of tinnitus on the QoL among adults in Saudi Arabia. A significant portion of the studied patients faced catastrophic handicaps, emphasizing the severity of the condition. These findings underscore the multifaceted and far-reaching consequences of tinnitus, highlighting the need for comprehensive support and management strategies tailored to the unique sociodemographic factors influencing individuals' experiences.

Retraction: Schwannoma: A Rare Etiology of Pancoast Syndrome.

[This retracts the article DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19418.].

Comparing knowledge, attitudes, and practices in cardiovascular disease prevention and health promotion between community and hospital pharmacists in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

Purpose: Saudi Arabia is one of the leading nations in the world in terms of the high frequency of chronic diseases and their associated risk factors. Knowledge and awareness are crucial for pharmacists to play an active role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The current study assessed the pharmacists' knowledge, attitude, and practice to determine the potential differences with respect to their respective practice settings toward CVD prevention and related health promotions. Methods: It is a cross-sectional study targeted the registered pharmacists in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. An online questionnaire was prepared, and the link was circulated through various social media platforms. Descriptive statistics, multivariate linear regression analysis and chi square test were used to analyze the data accordingly. Results: A total of 324 pharmacists were included in the study. Among these, 157 (48.4 %) were community pharmacists, and the remaining were hospital pharmacists (51.6 %). No significant differences in knowledge scores were observed between community and hospital pharmacists. The mean attitude score among community and hospital pharmacists was found to be 26.40 ± 5.125 and 25.09 ± 5.393 respectively, which was statistically significant (p = 0.026). Similarly, the total practice scores across the settings were statistically significant (p = 0.02). Gender plays a significant role in terms of knowledge scores among both community and hospital pharmacists (p = 0.016 & 0.029). Gender, professional practice experience, and number of prescriptions handled and prescriptions with CVD medications showed significant differences in the distribution of positive attitudes and good practice frequency between community and hospital pharmacists. Conclusion: It is evident that there is a deficiency in knowledge among hospital pharmacists compared to community pharmacists. Which indicates that there is a need for a rigorous continuous pharmacy education covering the fundamental aspects of CVD primary prevention and health promotion among pharmacists, given more focus on hospital pharmacists.