A Comparison Between Students’ Performance In Multiple Choice and Modified Essay Questions in the MBBS Pediatrics Examination at the College of Medicine, King Khalid University, KSA

Objectives: To investigate the relation between the students' scores in MCQs and MEQs of the summative assessment in pediatrics at the College of medicine KKU. Introduction: Student assessment is the most difficult task in medicine since it is ultimately related to human life and safety. Assessment can take different types of formats with advantages and disadvantages and there is no single prescribed method of choice. Research Methods: This is a quantitative, observational retrospective study enrolling 50 students who completed the final MBBS examination in pediatrics in 2015.The medical students’ scores in MCQs and MEQs in the final MBBS pediatrics examination were collected and SPSS used for analysis. Results: 52% of the students scored A and B, 46% scored C and 2% scored D and nobody scored F. The mean percentage scores in MCQs, MEQs and the combined are75.03%, 79.99% and 76.68% respectively. The standard deviation (SD) for MCQs, MEQs and combined are 0.0753, 0.0763 and 0.0559 respectively.There are no significant differences in means and SD. The correlation (CR) between MCQs and MEQs is -1.73%. The CR between MCQs and MEQs for those who scored A and B is 7.38% which could indicate a weak but significant +ve CR (p value 0.017), (table3). For those who scored C inverse CR (-74.38%) was observed between MCQs and MEQs. Discussion: The main finding of this study was the weakly negative CR between students' performance on MCQs and MEQs. Good performance in MCQs is not necessary correlated with good performance in LEQs. This is not in agreement with Oyebola et al. and Moqattash et al findings, who reported positive CR in the performance of their students. The discrepancy observed in performance between MCQs and MEQs could be explained by the subjectivity and the difficulty in avoiding bias in setting and marking essay questions.   Key Words: multiple choice questions, Modified long essay questions, correlation

Pharmacist management of atrial fibrillation in UK primary care:a cross-sectional study

Background: Atrial Fibrillation (AF) increases the risk of stroke by a factor of five, leading a significant cost burdens on healthcare system. Pharmacists, especially those based in a primary care environment are well placed to support patients in this therapeutic area.Objectives: To assess primary care pharmacists’ actual knowledge on the management of AF symptoms and anticoagulation. Furthermore, to investigate the resources used by pharmacists.Methods: A cross-sectional study using survey was conducted, targeting UK-based registered pharmacists employed within primary care settings. Quantitative data were analysed utilising descriptive univariate and bivariate statistics.Results: 349 pharmacists completed the adapted 19-questions of the pharmacists’ knowledge. Out of a maximum of 19 points, the mean score was 14.34 ± 2.2 (75 ± 11.6%). The questionnaire revealed several significant gaps in pharmacists’ knowledge. Most of the surveyed pharmacists (62.8%) reported that they used sources of information to support their consultations. Half reported that they used the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance (52.4%) and the British National Formulary (BNF) (50.7%).Conclusions: Primary care pharmacists are knowledgeable about AF and its management; however, some gaps exist which may require addressing. Although pharmacists use a variety of information resources, it is the traditional resources that remain the most frequently used

Acute effects of cigarette smoking on the cardiac diastolic functions

AbstractBackgroundSmoking is an independent risk factor for coronary heart diseases and it increases all causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.Aim of the workTo assess the acute effect of cigarette smoking on ventricular diastolic functions (LV and RV) in healthy, young, and slim smokers.MethodsThirty volunteers who had recently commenced smoking (less than one year) and who smoked 1–2 cigarettes per day, underwent ECG, 2D and M-mode echocardiography, standard Doppler echocardiography, pulsed TDI (tissue Doppler imaging) on septal and lateral side of mitral annulus and lateral tricuspid annulus. Vp values were measured. The investigator asked them to hold smoking for at least two days after which echocardiographic examination was conducted before smoking one cigarette and the second examination conducted immediately after smoking one cigarette containing at least 0.4mg of nicotine.ResultsDoppler findings over the mitral valve showed the E wave was significantly reduced from 82.7±10.4 to 74.6±10.4 after smoking; the A wave increased; the E/A ratio was reduced from 1.5±0.3 to 1.2±0.2; the E′ septal significantly decreased (15.3±2.4 vs. 11.2±1.1) after smoking, and the E/E′ ratio increased from 5.5±1.1 to 6.7±1.1. Doppler findings over the tricuspid valve showed the E wave was reduced from 60.6±9.7 to 52.7±9.6; the A wave increased from 42.2±6.5 to 50.1±6.6; and the E/A ratio decreased (1.45±0.25 vs. 1.06±0.19). The E′ significantly decreased from 14.1±1.8 to 10.9±2.4, while the A′ increased (10.2±2.4 vs. 12.7±3.6) after smoking; and the IVRT of the RV was significantly prolonged from 62.9±7.5 to 68.7±7.9 after smoking. The Vp was markedly reduced from 67.8±8 to 55.2±3.5 after smoking. These findings reflected on the LV filling pressure (LVFvp) which increased from 9.8±1.4 to 10.5±1.3 after smoking. All changes were statistically significant at P<0.001.ConclusionsOur study reveals that cigarette smoking can result in significant acute alteration in the diastolic functions of both ventricles

Characteristics and anticancer properties of Sunitinib malate-loaded poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid nanoparticles against human colon cancer HT-29 cells lines

Purpose: To develop poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) -based nanoparticles (NPs) for the delivery of sunitinib malate (STM) to colon cancer cells.Methods: Three different formulations (F1 – F3) were developed by nano-precipitation technique using various concentrations of PLGA. The NPs were evaluated for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, drug entrapment, and drug loading, using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fouriertransform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, in vitro drug release and anticancer studies were carried out on the formulations.Results: Among the three NPs, optimized NP (F3) of STM was chosen for in vitro anti-cancer study against H-29 human colon cancer cells lines based on its particle size (132.9 nm), PDI (0.115), zeta potential (-38.12 mV), entrapment efficiency (52.42 %), drug loading (5.24 %), and drug release (91.26 % in 48 h). A significant anti-cancer activity of the optimized NPs was observed, relative to free STM.Conclusion: These findings suggest that STM-loaded NPs possess significant anti-cancer activity against human colon cancer HT-29 cells lines.Keywords: Sunitinib malate, Poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid, Nanoparticles, Colon cance

Dermatological Lesions of Cholesterol Embolization Syndrome and Kaposi Sarcoma Mimic Primary Systemic Vasculitis: Case Report Study

Primary systemic vasculitis can present with a wide spectrum of manifestations ranging from systemic non-specific features such as fever, malaise, arthralgia, and myalgia to specific organ damage. We describe two cases of cholesterol embolization syndrome and Kaposi sarcoma mimicking primary systemic vasculitis, both of which were characterized by features such as livedo reticularis, blue toe syndrome, a brown, purpuric skin rash, and positive p-ANCA associated with Kaposi sarcoma. Establishing the right diagnosis was&nbsp;challenging, and thus we&nbsp;aim in this study to highlight the possible ways to distinguish them from&nbsp;primary systemic vasculitis. Keywords: Dermatological lesions, Cholesterol embolization syndrome, Kaposi sarcoma, vasculitis mimic

The Prevalence of Obesity among School Students and its Relation to Dietary and Physical Habits

BACKGROUND: Recent studies suggest that unhealthy food practices and lack of exercise are the main cause of the progressive increase in the obesity prevalence. AIM: We aim to assess the prevalence of obesity among school students and its relationship to dietary and physical habits. METHODS: A cross-sectional study from 18 intermediate and high schools located in Taif, Saudi Arabia, between April 2014 and June 2015. We excluded any student with a psychological disease or chronic diseases. We calculated the body mass index (BMI) of students by measuring their height and weight. Dietary, physical, sleep habits, and socioeconomic status were assessed. RESULTS: A total of 2943 students participated with a mean age of 15.4 ± 1.7 years. The majority of these were boys and attending government schools with a mean BMI 22.7 ± 8.6 kg/m2. Overall, 13.6% were overweight and 12.8% were obese. One-third of students report a sedentary lifestyle. Compared to girls, boys were more likely to have lower BMI (p &lt; 0.001), be overweight (p &lt; 0.001), exercise for &gt;300 min/week (p &lt; 0.001), own electronic devices other than smartphone (p &lt; 0.001), use the electronic devices &lt;3 h/day (p = 0.007), eat their meals with their family (p &lt; 0.001), eat fruits and vegetables daily (p &lt; 0.05), exercise for &gt;300 min/week (p &lt; 0.001), and walk to and from school at least once weekly (p &lt; 0.001). CONCLUSION: A quarter of the students were either overweight or obese. Girls were more likely to be obese with less favorable socioeconomic, media consumption, dietary, and physical profiles

CAUSES AND MANAGEMENT OF VIRAL EYE INFECTION

Introduction: The eye is a fascinating organ for several reasons. It is not only have a composite structure, however it is considered an immune-privileged organ. The anatomy of the eye is composed of the anterior and posterior parts, the line of division is posterior to the lens. The anterior chamber lies within the anterior segment and is an immuneprivileged anatomical location, this is due to the fact that the T-cell response in this area is suppressed This protects the eye from potentially destructive immune attacks however it also makes defence against infectious agents challenging, particularly where T-cell responses are critical for immunological defence. Viruses could get into the eye by direct inoculation, or through haematogenous or neuronal spread. The diagnoses of viral eye infections are usually clinical one, helped by taking a thorough history and performing ophthalmic examination. But in challenging cases the lab tests are essential. In this review, we will discuss the most recent evidence regarding Causes and management of viral eye infection Aim of work: In this review, we will discuss the most recent evidence regarding Causes and management of viral eye infection Methodology: We did a systematic search for Causes and management of viral eye infection using PubMed search engine (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) and Google Scholar search engine (https://scholar.google.com). All relevant studies were retrieved and discussed. We only included full articles. Conclusions: A wide range of of viruses can affect the eye and cause viral eye infections, either as a primary infection or reactivation. Some affect the eye directly while the others indirectly but may still manifest with eye disease. One virus may affect several parts of the eye, while different viruses may cause the same eye disease. This could complicate the clinical diagnosis of viral eye disease, but the lab tests like PCR and antibody tests could assist in challenging cases where there may be diagnostic dilemma. The HIV epidemic has had an huge impact on ophthalmology clinics, this is because the virus can cause different eye diseases, and the associated decrease in cell-mediated immunity makes the person highly susceptible to opportunistic viral eye infections, sometimes with severe morbidity. There could be other viruses that may affect the eye that we did not discuss. Key words: Causes, management, viral eye infection

Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in HIF-1A, VEGFa, and VHL Genes: A Comparative Study between Sea Level and High-Altitude Residents in West Saudi Arabia

Background: This comprehensive molecular study investigates the genetic variations in individuals residing at different altitudes in West Saudi Arabia, specifically contrasting sea-level residents in Jeddah (SL) with high-altitude dwellers in Taif (HA). The study focuses on the significant role of genetic adaptations in response to environmental challenges, particularly hypoxia. Understanding these genetic differences according to geographical location is crucial for multiple reasons. It not only sheds light on the adaptive mechanisms that humans develop in response to environmental stressors like reduced oxygen levels but also has broader implications for medical, anthropological, and evolutionary studies. By exploring how distinct populations adapt to their environments, this research provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between genetics, health, and disease, highlighting the importance of considering genetic diversity in medical and genetic research.Methods: The research involved amplifying and sequencing three pivotal genes associated with hypoxia adaptation: Hif-1a, VEGFa, and VHL. Advanced genomic techniques were utilized to analyze samples from 22 volunteers, 10 from the sea level region of Jeddah and 12 from the high-altitude region of Taif. The study aimed to identify and analyze single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these genes and their implications in altitude adaptation.Results: Distinct SNPs were identified in the Hif-1a, VEGFa, and VHL genes, with high-altitude residents displaying more pronounced variations. The phylogenetic analysis demonstrated clear genetic clustering based on altitude, highlighting the molecular adaptations induced by altitude variations. The study reveals a complex interplay between genetics and environmental conditions, significantly contributing to our understanding of human adaptation to high altitudes.Conclusion: This research underscores the profound impact of altitude on human genetics. The findings provide critical insights into how genetic variations facilitate adaptation to challenging environmental conditions, such as hypoxia, encountered at high altitudes. These insights have broad implications, potentially informing medical research related to altitude sickness and other altitude-related health issues.Keywords: High-Altitude Adaptation; Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs); Hif-1a Gene; VEGFa Gene; VHL Gene; Phylogenetic Analysis; Saudi Arabian Populations 

Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice of diabetic people in Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Background: This cross-sectional hospital based study aimed at determining the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of diabetes among local people of Najran, Saudi Arabia.Methods: We aimed to investigate the levels of knowledge, attitude and practice among diabetic people in Najran area.Results: 10% of the participants scored >7, 28% scored >5 and 62% scored 5 and less in Knowledge questionnaire. None [0.00%] of the participants scored 7 or more out of the attitude questionnaire. 100% of the participants scored 5 and less out of 12. 100% of the participants scored >6 and 0% scored 12 or more in the practice questionnaire.Conclusions: Our study revealed that the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of diabetes in the area of Najran is very poor. We suggest that a structured educational program to be adopted by the health authorities in Saudi Arabia

Unravelling the influence of pH, temperature and kinetics

Salah Ud Din is thankful to the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan for research funding under the National research program for universities (NRPU) under project No. 8376. The Deanship of Scientific Research at King Khalid University for funding this work through the research group project under grant number (RGP-1/284/44). DOI 10.54499/CEECINST/00102/2018/CP1567/CT0026). Publisher Copyright: © 2024 The AuthorsArsenic contamination, at lower concentrations (up to 500 µg L-1), is an important environmental concern but has received limited attention. Adsorption capacities, kinetics and equilibrium phenomena are concentration dependent. Previous studies focused on higher arsenic concentrations associated with industrial discharges, failing to address arsenic contamination in drinking water. This study investigates arsenic adsorption using Eleocharis dulcis biochar loaded with CuO (EDB-CuO) at lower concentrations (up to 500 µg L-1). The synthesized biochar was characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Point of Zero Charge (PZC) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Batch adsorption experiments were conducted, varying time, concentration, temperature and pH. Results indicated that increasing temperature positively influenced arsenic adsorption onto EDB-CuO, while pH had an opposite effect, with maximum adsorption occurring at lower pH levels (2−3). The equilibrium time was established at 240 min for arsenate adsorption. Kinetic data best fitted the Ho and McKay's plot and the Langmuir model calculated a maximum adsorption capacity of 26.1 mg g-1. Thermodynamic parameters, including enthalpy, entropy and activation energy, supported the conclusion that the arsenate adsorption process was spontaneous and chemisorptive. Column studies demonstrated remarkable adsorption retention performance (>88%) of the composite for arsenate removal over 8 h. Similarly, a fixed-bed column experiment was conducted to study the adsorption mechanism of arsenate on EDB-CuO by employing the Bohart-Adams, Thomas, and Clark models. The Clark model was found to best describe the arsenate removal mechanism. Additionally, recycling studies of arsenate from the loaded EDB-CuO surface were investigated up to 4 adsorption-desorption cycles. A small decrease was observed in the second cycle, from 92.06% removal to 85.15%, which further decreased in the third cycle (62.18%), and even more in the fourth cycle (30.8%).publishersversionpublishe