Background: End-stage heart failure patients awaiting heart transplant often require Ventricular Assisted Devices (VAD) to support systemic and pulmonary circulation and to improve ventricular function, symptoms, and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). This study evaluates the health-related quality of life in patients with VAD and was conducted at the Cardio Ventricular Assisted Devices Clinic at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh. Methods: This retrospective cohort study design included all eligible VAD patients who were still attending the cardio ventricular assisted devices clinic at KFSHRC, Riyadh. Each study participant was assigned a detailed questionnaire to assess and evaluate HRQoL outcomes measured in physical limitations, emotional stress, sexual activity, and social function from the date of device insertion to the time of data collection. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Studies (SPSS 22; IBM Corp., New York, NY, USA). Results: Between February 2016 until June 2020, 26 patients were eligible for the study. The patients' support scores were moderate to high, indicating a positive effect on their HRQoL, with a mean score of 57.69 in emotional activity, a mean score of 34.07 in physical activity, and a mean score of 83.17 in social activity. The study's results show that the level of HRQoL varies among patients with VADs. Conclusion: Participating patients with VAD reported excellent health-related quality of life in all domains, with moderate to high support scores indicating a positive effect on their HRQoL. There is currently a lack of study on HRQoL in patients with VADs in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, this study may provide a baseline understanding of current challenges in the care of heart failure patients with VAD awaiting a heart transplant.

Calliandra portoricensis (CP) is used in ethnomedicine to manage breast inflammation. We investigated the anti-mammary tumour effects of fraction from CP in rat model of mammary tumorigenesis induced with N methyl N nitrosourea (NMU) and benzo (a)pyrene (BaP) and MCF-7 cells. In vivo, thirty-two female Wistar rats were assigned into four equal groups: Group 1 (control), group 2 received [NMU (50 mg/kg) +BaP (50 mg/kg)], group 3 received [NMU (50 mg/kg) +BaP (50 mg/kg) + CP (100 mg/kg)] and group 4 received [NMU (50 mg/kg) +BaP (50 mg/kg) + vincristine (VIN) (500 μg/kg)]. The NMU and BaP was injected intraperitoneally to rats at age 7, 10 and 13 weeks for twelve weeks. Thereafter, CP (orally) and vincristine (i.p) was administered for two weeks. In vitro, CP and VIN concentration-dependently inhibited the growth of MCF-7 cells by over 80% at 100 µg/mL. The CP and VIN elevated Bax by 4.2 and 1.5 folds, and decreased myeloperoxidase by 75% and 82%, respectively, while CP alone decreased interleukin-1β by 34% in vitro. In vivo, [NMU+BaP] increased weight and organo somatic weight of mammary gland by 3 and 2.9 folds; total bilirubin, nitric oxide and malondialdehyde by 23%, 51% and 52%, respectively. In [NMU+BaP] rats, weak expression of caspase-3, Bax, and strong expression of iNOS and NF-kB activities were observed, with histological alteration. The GC-MS fingerprint of CP fraction revealed the presence of hexadecanoic acid methyl ester as the most abundant constituent. Treatment with CP ameliorates mammary tumour through mechanisms that involve anti-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic reactions.

Anomalies of the Paramesonephric duct is a group of congenital malformations that occur either from the failure to complete bilateral Mullerian duct elongation, fusion, duct canalization, or resorption of the septum. Septate uterus is the commonest of these anomalies and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes especially miscarriages. Metroplasty has been associated with improved pregnancy outcomes with hysteroscopic resection been the preferred approach currently. Open abdominal metroplasty is a useful alternative in low resource set-up or where facilities for hysteroscopy is not readily available or not affordable. The need for this case report is to document the case of a complete uterine septum in a 31-year-old woman with three previous miscarriages who had open abdominal metroplasty and subsequent pregnancy with good outcome.

This case study details a Dharma practitioner's journey in using spiritual practices to help her father overcome severe, long-term urticaria. Her father's condition, which began after killing and consuming live aquatic animals, gradually worsened despite extensive treatments with both Western and traditional Chinese medicine. When these interventions failed, the practitioner turned to the Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door, implementing the Three Golden Buddhist Practices. She dedicated herself to reciting Buddhist scriptures on her father's behalf, while he progressively adopted vegetarianism and Buddhist practices. Ultimately, he experienced a profound, lasting improvement in his skin condition, which doctors had previously deemed incurable. This case highlights the potential role of Dharma in addressing karmic illnesses and its significance in treating conditions viewed as spiritual or karmic in origin.

This research addresses the significant challenge of unreliable wireless communication, which hinders the performance of ZigBee-based wireless sensor networks (WSNs) in precision agriculture. A dual-slope log-distance path loss model was developed to accurately predict signal propagation complexities in dense vegetative environments for improved wireless communication. The study was conducted on a cassava farm in Ondo State, Nigeria, characterized by vegetation heights of 1.8 meters, making it an ideal site for investigation. A systematic methodology was employed, incorporating radio frequency measurements in both line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight conditions. This involved deploying two XBee S2C modules operating at 2.4 GHz, with one designated as a coordinator and the other as a router. The collection of Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) and throughput data occurred at 5 meter intervals, with variations in the router's orientation. Results revealed a maximum communication range of 70 meters under non-line-of-sight conditions, compared to 140 meters in line-of-sight scenarios, where the path loss exponent was determined to be 1.78. The path loss exponents for the cassava fields were found to be 2.55 and 4.25. The developed dual-slope path loss model showed a strong fit to additional empirical data from a separate cassava farm location, achieving a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 3.30 % and an R-squared value of 0.94. Hence, this model offers a comprehensive framework for characterizing radio wave propagation in agricultural environments, enhancing data transmission reliability and energy efficiency in smart farming applications.

Objective: Hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV, HCV), as well as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), are capable of replicating in lymphoid tissues. These infections can lead to chronic antigenic stimulation, which may be linked to the development of lymphoproliferative disorders. This study aims to explore the serological status of Hepatitis B, C, and HIV in lymphoma patients. Methods: In this study, medical records of lymphoma patients diagnosed between 2022 and 2024 were reviewed to record parameters such as HBsAg, Anti-HBs, Anti-HBc IgG, Anti-HCV, Anti-HIV. Results: The average age of the 59 patients was 60.6 ± 15.3 years, and 37.3% were women. Of the 59 patients, 41(69.5%) were treated with chemotherapy including Rituximab (rtx). Among the patients, 6 (10.1%) were HBsAg positive, 22 (37.2%) were HBsAg negative with Anti-HBc (+) detected. Of the 28 patients with HBsAg (+) and/or Anti-HBc IgG (+), 24 had received rtx treatment, and antiviral therapy was administered to 20 of them. One of these patients experienced HBV reactivation during follow-up. A false positive result for Anti-HCV was observed in one patient (1.7%). HIV positivity was detected in 3 patients (5%). Conclusıon: These findings indicate that the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and HIV in lymphoma patients in our center is higher than in the general population. Therefore, HBV and HIV tests should be performed before initiating treatment in lymphoma patients. These patients should be evaluated for the risk of HBV reactivation, and appropriate prophylaxis should be planned.

Background: Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) encompasses a spectrum of pregnancy-related disorders, ranging from benign hydatidiform mole to malignant choriocarcinoma, and poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, particularly in resource-limited settings. The purpose of the study was to assess the clinical presentation and follow-up outcomes of patients diagnosed with Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD). Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical presentation and follow-up outcomes of patients diagnosed with Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD). Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study, conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, from November 2012 to November 2013, included 70 GTD patients. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, analyzed via SPSS, and ethical approval was obtained with assurances of confidentiality and voluntary participation. Results: Among 70 patients with GTD, 55.71% were aged 21–30 years, and 91.43% came from below-average income groups. The most common symptom in molar pregnancies was per vaginal bleeding (55.56%), while persistent mole and choriocarcinoma patients frequently presented with bleeding and lower abdominal pain (52%). A large proportion (77.78%) of molar pregnancies had uterine sizes larger than the period of gestation. Regular follow-up was observed in 74% of patients, and 100% underwent serum β-hCG testing. Most hydatidiform mole patients (80%) achieved remission, while 10% of choriocarcinoma cases resulted in death. Conclusion: Consistent monitoring and early detection significantly improve the clinical outcomes of patients diagnosed with Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD).

Background: Desmoid fibromatosis is a locally aggressive benign fibroblastic soft tissue tumor representing nearly 0.03% of all neoplasms. They can be sporadic or may be associated with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). Around 50% of fibromatosis are intrabdominal or arise in the abdominal wall. Rarely, these tumors can arise from the intestinal wall. Appendix and mesoappendix are extremely rare sites of presentation with only 3 reported cases. Case Presentation: A healthy 43-year-old male presented with abdomen distension. CECT scan showed a well-defined enhancing mass in the lower abdomen attached to the appendix with no surrounding infiltration, fat stranding, or evidence of distant metastasis. A wide resection was performed, and gross examination showed a well-circumscribed mass measuring 8 cm attached to the appendix. Histological examination revealed a well-circumscribed cellular spindle cell neoplasm with focal infiltrative borders. The tumor cells showed nuclear immunoreactivity for Beta-catenin and focally for Desmin, while they were negative for DOG1, CD117, CD34, STAT6, S100 & Pan Cytokeratin. The morphology and immunohistochemistry were compatible with Desmoid fibromatosis. CT scans were negative for recurrence or distant metastases after 8 months of follow-up. Conclusion: Appendix and mesoappendix desmoid fibromatosis are extremely rare and can present as an abdominal mass or features of acute appendicitis. Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is an important differential diagnosis at this site and is crucial to differentiate from fibromatosis for patient management and follow-up. Identifying beta-Catenin (CTNNB1) mutation is a diagnostic criterion to differentiate from other spindle cell tumors, especially on small biopsies. Multi-disciplinary treatment approach is crucial for management.

Background: Nurses play a vital role in caring for patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for severe respiratory or cardiac failure. However, this area of nursing practice presents unique challenges. Accordingly, understanding these challenges is essential to improve patient care and support nurses' well-being. Aims: This study aimed to investigate and identify challenges nurses face in providing care to patients on ECMO. Method: A quantitative cross-sectional study of eligible nurses was conducted at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh City (KFSH&RC-R). A survey instrument developed by the principal investigators was used to collect data. A panel of ECMO specialists and clinical experts validated the survey content. Results: A total of 66 nurses (75.8% females, 60.6% aged 25–34 years, 33.3% with 1–5 years of nursing experience, and 87.9% holding a bachelor's degree in nursing) participated in the study. The identified challenges were managing complex equipment, maintaining stability, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, addressing ethical dilemmas, managing high acuity, coping with stress, and prioritizing self-care. Conclusions: These findings highlight the multifaceted challenges nurses face in caring for patients on ECMO, which influence their well-being, job satisfaction, and the quality of care provided. Thus, interventional strategies to address these issues in this specialized area are urgently required.

Coccidiosis, a parasitic disease caused by protozoa of the genus Eimeria, poses significant challenges to poultry production worldwide due to its impact on productivity and economic costs. This review consolidates current findings on the epidemiology and genetic diversity of coccidiosis affecting chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) and pigeons (Columba livia) in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, India. By synthesizing existing literature and field study data, we provide an overview of prevalence rates, species diversity, and genetic characteristics of Eimeria spp. The role of environmental factors, host immunity, and management practices in shaping disease dynamics is also discussed. The review underscores the critical need for region-specific control measures and highlights potential future research avenues aimed at enhancing disease prevention and management strategies.

Pesticides are commonly used in agriculture soils to distroy various pathogens. During the late 1950s and early 1960s, the media in Western Europe and North America extensively covered the issue of birds on agricultural land being poisoned by aldrin, dieldrin, and heptachlor, which were commonly used as seed dressings. To highlight this issue, an experiment was performed to examine the effects of sodium fluoride on Japanes quail growth, biochemical and histology of kidney. In the present work, forty-eight sexually male Japanese quail, weighing 105gm, were used, divided in 4 equal groups as A, B, C & D having 12 quails in every group. Quails were acclimatized for two weeks. After acclimatization experimental treatments were applied to their respective groups. Duration of experiment was 30 days. Sodium fluoride was given to quails orally with the help of gavage on daily basis. Quails in group C handled with 3.75mg/kg dose and group D handled with 5.0mg/kg dose showed significant changes in physical, biochemical and renal parameters as compared to control group. These treatments also cause significant reduction in final weight of birds. Birds in groups B with 2.5 mg/kg dose showed non-significant results. On 3.75mg/kg exposure, the highest accretion of fluoride occurred in the kidney. Sodium fluoride exposure significantly increased the kidney injury and other renal biomarkers. The histopathological variations such as necrosis of parenchymal cells, congestion and hemorrhage varied in dose dependent manner of sodium fluoride.

The purpose of this research was to assess the challenges facing students when using the school library in Zanzibar. The study was conducted in Zanzibar West “A” District, Unguja. It involved three public secondary schools. This study used a qualitative method and employing a descriptive case study design. The objective of the study was to assess the challenges students face when using the school library. Data was collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and observations from 48 respondents selected from schools in the West “A” District in Zanzibar. The findings of the study revealed the usage of school libraries was low due to the various challenges facing students in using school libraries in Zanzibar, including shortage of resources, insufficient reading space, shortage of facilities in reading rooms, limited designated time for library usage, poor customer service from librarians, limited library hours, and shortage of librarians. The study recommends that schools be supported in establishing well-equipped, furnished, and resource-rich libraries to encourage students to enjoy visiting and utilizing these spaces for reading books and accessing informational materials.

A concept analysis is an in-depth examination of a phenomenon of interest as it relates to various disciplines. The literature lacks a clear definition of the concept of novice faculty; therefore, the purpose of this paper is to analyze and develop an operational definition of novice faculty through the methodology of Walker and Avant (2011). A literature search was conducted using four selected databases: PsycINFO, Computers and Applied Sciences, CINAHL, and ERIC, resulting in a total of 19 articles chosen and reviewed. Based on this concept, attributes, antecedents, and consequences were applied, as displayed in the concept map. A model case demonstrates all the defining attributes of the concept. Additionally, borderline and contrary cases are provided to illustrate distinctions among defining attributes. The analysis led to the following definition: A novice faculty member is a neophyte who works in a new culture and lacks experience in both theoretical and practical skills associated with the nurse educator role in the academic environment. The importance of the novice concept to the profession of nursing is highlighted through its implications for nursing science, education, and practice. The outcome of this analysis—the development of a conceptual definition of novice faculty—should be viewed not as a finished product but as a foundational step toward understanding the concept.

Maize crop is cultivated for the purpose to obtain high production of grains. Term maize is derived from Latin language, meaning life benefactor. Its grains possess high nutritional values. Because of high importance of maize grains, a study was performed according to CRD by three replications to examine the mitigating effects of antioxidants such as citric acid, ascorbic acid and salicylic acid to salt toxicity. Foliar application of these three antioxidants were done at 200 ppm concentration and one treatment as mixture of 100 ppm of all three antioxidants. Data was noted for different growth, physiological and yield attributes. Analysis of data revealed that 100 ppm concentration mixture of all three antioxidants provided highest results for all attributes. The 100 ppm antioxidant mixture foliar application caused 8% increase in plant height and 29% increase in ear length as compared to controlled plants sprayed with water. It also caused significant increase in concentration of all photosynthetic pigments such as Chl a, Chl b and carotenoids. Foliar application with 100 ppm of antioxidant mixture also caused 21% increase in catalase activity and 27% increase in peroxidase activity. This treatments also helped plants to accumulate more potassium and provided lowest (0.44) Na+/K+ ratio. Hundred grain weight was observed highest (44.7) in plants sprayed with 100 ppm of antioxidant mixture. Harvest index of those plants were also highest (45.65). So, from these results it can be assumed that 100 ppm antioxidant mixture foliar application provided highest results followed by 200 ppm concentration of ascorbic acid.

Background: Ectopic pregnancy (EP), where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity, is a significant contributor to first-trimester maternal morbidity and mortality, especially in low-resource settings. Understanding region-specific risk factors, clinical presentations, and management outcomes is critical for developing effective healthcare strategies. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients diagnosed with EP at Monno Medical College and Hospital, Manikganj, Bangladesh from January, 2022 to January, 2024. Patient data, including demographic information, clinical history, risk factors, and management strategies, were collected retrospectively from medical records. Management approaches, including medical (methotrexate) and surgical interventions, were analyzed for effectiveness and patient outcomes using SPSS version 26. Ethical approval was obtained, and all patient data were anonymized. Results: Most patients (30%) were aged 26-30 years, and marital status was significantly associated with EP (p = 0.048). History of PID and previous ectopic pregnancy were reported in 35% and 20% of patients, respectively, with significant associations (p = 0.015 and p = 0.040). Methotrexate was administered in 40% of cases, showing significant success (p = 0.025). Surgical interventions, including salpingectomy and laparoscopy, were performed in 35% and 25% of cases, respectively, and significantly associated with positive outcomes. Tubal preservation was achieved in 55% of patients, while tubal loss occurred in 45%. Complications, such as the need for blood transfusions (15%) and hospital readmission (8%), underscore the critical nature of EP management. Conclusion: This study highlights significant risk factors and clinical presentations of EP in a Bangladeshi population, with effective management outcomes observed for both medical and surgical interventions. Improved diagnostic access and timely intervention are essential to reduce EP-related morbidity and enhance reproductive outcomes in low-resource settings.