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Metabolism of hepcidin and iron in pregnant women: pathophysiology and research results
No full textPregnancy is characterized by changes in iron metabolism due to the needs of the growing fetus, placenta and increased circulating blood volume. Hepcidin, the main hormone regulating systemic iron metabolism, plays a key role in maintaining the balance between iron intake, storage and transport. This pathophysiological review reviews the current understanding of hepcidin regulation during pregnancy, including our own studies. The study included 33 pregnant women in whom hemoglobin, serum iron and hepcidin levels were determined. Descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analyses were used for the analysis (p < 0.05 was considered significant). A statistically significant positive association was found between hemoglobin and hepcidin levels: Hepc = –23. 87 + 0. 25 × Hb (r = 0.62; p = 0.0003). A moderate inverse correlation was also observed between hepcidin levels and serum iron levels: Hepc = 0.0569 + 0.309 × Fe (r = -0.66; p < 0.001). These results confirm that hepcidin levels increase with increasing hemoglobin levels, reflecting its inhibitory effect on iron absorption. High hepcidin levels may reduce circulating iron levels associated with inflammation. These data demonstrate the value of hepcidin in assessing iron metabolism disorders during pregnancy and allow it to be considered as a potential biomarker for determining the type of anemia
Maternal and Childhood Iron Deficiency: Clinical Implications and Global Trends in Anemia Prevalence
No full textAnaemia remains a global public health challenge, characterized by low haemoglobin levels or reduced red blood cell count, leading to impaired oxygen delivery to tissues. It disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including young children, pregnant and postpartum women, and those of menstruating age. In 2023, global anaemia prevalence affected 30.7% of women aged 15–49 and 39.8% of children aged 6– 59 months. Major aetiologies include nutritional deficiencies (particularly iron, folate, and vitamin B12), infections, chronic diseases, inherited haemoglobin disorders, and chronic inflammation. Anaemia contributes significantly to maternal and child mortality, impaired cognitive and physical development in children, and reduced productivity in adults, perpetuating social and economic burdens. Although the World Health Organization advocates multi-sectoral strategies—such as dietary diversification, micronutrient supplementation, and addressing underlying determinants like infectious diseases and gender inequities—global progress remains insufficient to meet the 2030 target of a 50% reduction in anaemia prevalence. This review synthesizes current evidence on the prevalence, causes, and clinical consequences of iron deficiency and anaemia, with a focus on maternal and child populations. By analysing data from WHO, UNICEF, and peer-reviewed literature, we examine the biological role of iron, impacts of deficiency on health outcomes, and evolving intervention strategies. Special emphasis is placed on updated haemoglobin cut-offs, nutritional guidelines, and regional epidemiological trends—including data from Central Asia and low-income countries—to inform future public health initiatives and clinical practice aimed at reducing the global burden of anaemia
Assessing the Impact of Age on Ovarian Reserve: Insights from basal FSH and AFC Trends
No full textThis study aimed to evaluate the correlation between female age and ovarian reserve markers, specifically Day 2 follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and antral follicle count (AFC), and to determine the statistical significance of these relationships. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 371 women, aged 22 to 42 years, who were recruited for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) at a university-affiliated tertiary center between 2008 and 2013. Inclusion criteria required no history of ovarian surgery or hormonal therapy within the preceding three months, while exclusion criteria comprised a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other endocrine disorders (e.g., thyroid dysfunction, hyperprolactinemia). Descriptive statistics summarized the data, and Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the relationships. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The analysis revealed a weak, non-significant positive correlation between age and Day 2 FSH (r = 0.18, p = 0.446) and a strong, significant negative correlation between age and AFC (r = -0.61, p = 0.004). These findings indicate that while Day 2 FSH is not significantly associated with age, AFC demonstrates a strong inverse relationship with advancing age, supporting its utility as a sensitive and reliable marker for ovarian reserve
Familial Mediterranean fever and reproductive systems, our experience in two decades: A letter to editor
No full textThis is a Letter to the Editor and does not have an abstract. Please download the PDF or view the article in HTML
The evaluation role of T helper 17 cells in pregnancy and abortion: A molecular and future perspective: Narrative review
No full textT helper (Th)17 is one of the immune cells playing a vital role in cellular processes, especially abortion. This cell regulates many cells and mediators of the immune system through genes and molecular pathways. This research evaluates the function of Th17 in pregnancy and abortion. This immune system cell normally regulates the activity of immune cells and inflammatory responses. Th17 cells affect decidua, placental formation, and trophoblast invasion in pathogenic conditions. Th17 acts mainly through secreting interleukin (IL-17). This cell disrupts molecular pathways and progesterone secretion through molecular pathways and genes. Besides, it was shown that the level of IL-17 is constantly enhanced within the gestation time of healthy pregnant women. Through the integration and summary of the literature, we conclude that a successful pregnancy requires a balanced Th17 cell response. However, since the exact mechanisms of Th17 cells during pregnancy remain unclear, further investigation is required to clarify this issue. In addition, the relationship between IL-17 and pregnancy complications is complex and requires further investigation. In this respect, the maternal immune reaction participates in keeping the balance of the Th17 immune response
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance of Ophthalmology Residents: A Systematic Review
No full textThis systematic review investigated the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the knowledge, attitude, and performance of ophthalmology residents. We conducted a comprehensive systematic search in international databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), Education Resources Information Center (ERIC) using keywords “artificial intelligence”, “deep learning”, “ophthalmology”, “ocular surgery”, and “education” and their synonyms. The keywords were extracted from medical research studies published from January 1, 2018 to April 15, 2024. The quality of these studies was evaluated by using the STORBE, JADA, and JBI appraisal tools. Six studies were selected based on the defined criteria. Specifically, five of these studies investigated the effectiveness of AI interventions on the performance of ophthalmology residents in diagnosing myopia, corneal diseases (using a confocal microscope), staging of diabetic retinopathy, abnormal findings in posterior segment ultrasonography, including retinal detachment, posterior vitreous detachment, and vitreous hemorrhage, and 13 fundus diseases. One study investigated the residents’ attitudes about the application of an AI model for providing feedback in cataract surgery. All six studies showed positive results. Due to the small number of studies found through our systematic search and the variations in the investigated outcomes and study settings, it was not possible to conduct a metaanalysis. Despite the positive reports on improving the diagnostic performance of residents and their attitude toward the usability of AI models in cataract surgery, it is recommended that more studies be conducted in this area. These studies should replicate previous investigations using similar study settings while maintaining high quality standards and addressing existing limitations
Methodological Approaches for Economic Comparison of Mesenchymal Stem Cell and Exosome-based Therapies with Conventional Endodontic Treatments in Regenerative Endodontics
No full textRegenerative endodontics, particularly through mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)- based and exosome-based therapies, presents innovative alternatives to traditional endodontic treatments. However, the economic feasibility of integrating these advanced therapies into Kazakhstan’s dental healthcare system has yet to be systematically analyzed. This methodological study aims to establish a framework for evaluating the cost-effectiveness of regenerative therapies compared to conventional endodontic methods. It focuses on identifying the economic factors that influence the potential adoption of these therapies in Kazakhstan. The study outlines a comprehensive methodology for comparing the costs and potential long-term benefits of MSC- and exosome-based therapies. Data were collected from clinical studies, healthcare providers, and literature on cost factors such as treatment expenses, retreatment rates, and complication management
The Assessment of Students’ Perception Regarding the Learning Experience in the Virtual Pharmacology Laboratory
No full textObjective: The current study was conducted to evaluate students’ feedback on the virtual pharmacology classes among the second-year students in Faculty of Medicine, Northern Border University, Saudi Arabia.
Materials and Methods: The study was conducted through distribution of a structured self-administered questionnaire of three sections covering satisfaction of participants regarding the virtual pharmacology classes, their effect on students’ performance, and the attitude of students toward the virtual classes.
Results: A total of 152 responses were enrolled in the study. The number of female and male participants were 78 (51.3%) and 74 (48.7%), respectively. The overall answers of the respondents were satisfactory for the different sections with an overall average score of 3.4 (ranging from 3.3 to 3.47). Paired t-test revealed a statistically significant difference between male and female responses (p<0.0001). Male participants showed higher levels of satisfaction in all questions with an average response of 3.7 while the female participants showed an average satisfaction level of 3.1. Male participants were significantly more satisfied about convenience aspect of the practical classes (p=0.0052) with clearer results (p=0.0094), time saving (p=0.045), and better class organization (p=0.033). Also, male participants reported significantly higher satisfaction levels regarding the effect of virtual classes on their topic understanding (p=0.025), exam grades (p=0.0007), and improvement of thinking abilities (p=0.0058). Also, both questions of attitude showed that male participants significantly had a better attitude toward virtual classes.
Conclusion: The current data revealed satisfactory levels of satisfaction among students attending virtual pharmacology classes with their belief that these classes improved achievement of learning outcomes and a positive attitude toward having more virtual classes
Public-focused Pharmacovigilance Mobile Software: Comparison and Evaluation
No full textIntroduction: Medications can lead to severe health complications including adverse drug reactions, a major cause of mortality globally. Pharmacovigilance plays a critical role in identifying, evaluating, and mitigating these risks. While mobile medical apps present new opportunities for enhancing medication safety, there is a recognized need for better pharmacovigilance support within these applications. This study assesses the role of medical applications in pharmacovigilance and drug safety with the goal of enhancing these applications and bridging the gap between their current offerings and patient needs.
Methods: This mixed-methods study developed a pharmacovigilance concept specifically for public-use mobile applications, identifying six key aspects related to patient needs. These aspects guided the creation of an investigation form which was then used to evaluate nine selected apps.
Discussion: The findings showed a high degree of similarity among the apps, with significant gaps between their features and the actual needs of users. Most apps were limited to providing medication reminders, with only a few offerings information on safety alerts or drug interaction verification. The study recommends addressing these gaps and enhancing the capabilities of drug vigilance applications by providing comprehensive and credible information services tailored to patient needs, thus improving the effectiveness of health applications in drug vigilance.
Conclusion: Mobile applications have the potential to significantly improve pharmacovigilance and medication safety. However, existing apps have notable gaps. Collaboration between developers and healthcare professionals is essential to improve these apps and prioritize pharmacovigilance in all health-related mobile applications
Awareness About Epilepsy Among Schoolteachers in the Northern Border Region, Saudi Arabia
No full textIntroduction: Epilepsy is a worldwide neurological problem. First aid management is essential to control the fits and minimize the complications. This study aims to evaluate the awareness of epilepsy among schoolteachers in the Northern Border Region, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated questionnaire in Arabic to assess awareness about epilepsy among schoolteachers in the Northern Border Region, Saudi Arabia. Descriptive and contingency statistics were used to assess the data collected.
Results: The study enrolled 366 teachers after they gave their consent. The majority were females (56%) and qualified by a bachelor’s degree. (82%). Knowledge questions showed an overall average knowledge score of 3.4 ± 1.3 (ranging from 1-6). 212 participants (57.9%) had satisfactory knowledge scores (>3). The highest scores were given in questions about the etiology of epilepsy (93.7% correct responses), while the lowest level of correct answers was observed in the question about indications of hospitalization (24% correct responses). Place of work, years of experience, and positive family history of epilepsy or witnessing seized children significantly affect the knowledge scores (p-value = 0.008, 0.03, and <0.000, respectively) with, significantly, more knowledge among younger-aged teachers and teachers working in primary schools.
Conclusion: Overall knowledge about epilepsy among schoolteachers is improving, but there is a need for more awareness activities and first aid training, which includes activities such as graduating schoolteachers from university programs