ABDUL R. KHALEEL, MD

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This research looked at how early stages of plant growth, like seed germination and seedling development, can be improved using new technologies. The authors found that different methods such as gene editing, using beneficial microbes, and artificial intelligence can all help to regulate early plant development in similar ways, focusing on key factors like balance of hormones and root growth patterns. This is important because improving early plant growth can lead to crops that are more resilient to stress and produce more stable yields. Who this helps: This helps farmers, agricultural scientists, and plant breeders.

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This study looked at high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults in Amman, Jordan, by measuring their blood pressure and using a survey to predict future risk. They found that 20.6% of participants had undiagnosed hypertension, and many others were at high risk for developing it, based on factors like family history and weight. These findings are important because they highlight the need for better screening and prevention strategies to address hypertension, which affects a large part of the population. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers by identifying those who need early intervention.

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This study looked at how different ways of making cobalt-based catalysts affect their ability to burn methane at low temperatures, which is important for reducing methane emissions from natural gas vehicles. The researchers found that catalysts made with cerium oxide and produced using a specific method could convert 91% of methane at 600 degrees Celsius, which is 25% more effective than those made with silica oxide. This matters because improving methane combustion can lead to cleaner energy solutions and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists and engineers working on cleaner transportation technologies.

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This study examined how different methods of extracting plant materials affect the properties of metal nanoparticles made for cancer treatment. The researchers found that nanoparticles created from an alcoholic extract had higher levels of beneficial compounds and stronger antioxidant effects than those made with an aqueous extract. Specifically, the alcoholic nanoparticles showed an antioxidant capacity reaching around 46.02 micrograms per milliliter and led to significant reduction in cancer cell survival, dropping to as low as 1% viable cells at high concentrations. This research is important because it highlights how the choice of extraction method can enhance the effectiveness of nanoparticles used in cancer therapy. Who this helps: This benefits patients with skin cancer by potentially improving the effectiveness of new treatments.

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The study looked at how adding vitamin B12, specifically methylcobalamin, to the diabetes medication dapagliflozin affects blood sugar levels and body weight in people with type 2 diabetes. It involved 160 participants, where those taking vitamin B12 saw their average blood sugar level drop from 6.92% to 6.66% after 12 months, a significant decrease. This matters because lowering blood sugar can help reduce diabetes-related health issues and improve overall health. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 2 diabetes who are looking for better control of their blood sugar levels.

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This study looked at how different screen activities, like social media, video games, and TV, affect mental health among young people in Adjara, Georgia. Researchers found that young women aged 19-24 who spent a lot of time on social media had higher rates of depression, while teenage boys aged 14-18 from rural areas had better self-esteem compared to those from cities. The findings highlight the need for strategies that promote healthier screen habits to protect mental health. Who this helps: This helps patients and mental health professionals understand the impact of screen use on well-being.

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This study looked at factors that affect the quality of life for patients with multiple myeloma, a type of cancer, in the West Bank, Palestine. It found that symptoms like abdominal pain, chest pain, and swelling negatively impact patients' lives significantly, while conditions like gout and peptic ulcers also lower how patients view their bodies. These insights stress the importance of addressing both cancer symptoms and other health issues to improve overall care for patients, especially in areas with limited healthcare resources. Who this helps: Patients with multiple myeloma and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the presence of a harmful bacteria called O157:H7 in sheep from Central Jordan to see how common it is and how these bacteria respond to antibiotics. Researchers tested 198 sheep and found no O157:H7 bacteria, but discovered that 9% of the samples had related bacteria that were resistant to antibiotics. Specifically, all of these non-O157:H7 bacteria were resistant to ampicillin, 94.4% were resistant to erythromycin, and 5.6% were resistant to ciprofloxacin. This matters because it suggests that while sheep in this area are not a major source of this pathogen, the antibiotic resistance found could pose health risks that need to be managed. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and farmers by highlighting the importance of monitoring antibiotic resistance in livestock.

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This study looked at environmental and job-related factors that might increase the risk of multiple myeloma (a type of blood cancer) and how these factors affect patients' quality of life. They found that exposure to chemicals in cosmetics was associated with a nearly three times higher chance of developing the disease, and it led to worse symptoms and a more negative outlook on the future for patients. On the other hand, exposure to pesticides was linked with fewer symptoms and a better future perspective, while exposure to organic solvents worsened future outlook. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with multiple myeloma and healthcare providers by identifying risks and guiding preventative care.

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This research paper looks at how specific materials, called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent-organic frameworks (COFs), can be used to treat waste from nuclear energy production. The authors highlight that these materials can effectively capture harmful radioactive substances, which is essential for safe nuclear power generation. By improving the treatment of radioactive waste, we can better manage the environmental risks associated with nuclear energy while continuing to meet increasing energy demands. Who this helps: This helps patients and the general public by reducing the environmental risks of nuclear waste.

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This study focused on creating new materials to help heal large bone injuries that can't heal on their own. Researchers made specialized scaffolds using a mix of strontium and zinc with a natural substance called collagen and a synthetic polymer. They found that these scaffolds not only mimicked bone structure well, but also had strong support with a hardness level similar to real bone and encouraged healing over time by releasing helpful minerals. Who this helps: This benefits patients with significant bone injuries and orthopedic doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how much community pharmacists in southern Jordan know about proper antibiotic use and the dangers of antibiotic resistance. The findings showed that 38.6% of pharmacists sometimes give out antibiotics without a prescription; over 67% wrongly think that antibiotics can treat viral infections like the flu or a cold. This is important because misusing antibiotics can lead to more drug-resistant infections, making them harder to treat in the future. Who this helps: This helps patients who rely on pharmacists for safe and effective antibiotic use.

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This study looked at how a medication called pioglitazone affects the genes in the muscle tissues of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that can cause insulin resistance. Researchers found 1,459 genes that showed significant changes after treatment, with important links to immune response and mitochondrial function. These findings are important because they highlight potential gene markers that could help doctors tailor treatments for women with PCOS more effectively. Who this helps: Women with polycystic ovary syndrome and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how grapefruit juice affects the levels of empagliflozin, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, in rats. The researchers found that empagliflozin levels were significantly higher when combined with grapefruit juice: in healthy rats, levels increased from 730 ng/mL to 1907 ng/mL, and in diabetic rats, they rose from the same baseline to 2936 ng/mL. This is important because higher levels of the medication could lead to side effects, so it's advised that people taking empagliflozin be careful about consuming grapefruit juice. Who this helps: This helps patients with type 2 diabetes who are prescribed empagliflozin.

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This study examined how carbon dots, tiny particles made from D-glucose, are formed using different scientific techniques. The researchers found that when they heated D-glucose, certain chemical groups formed, which influenced how the carbon dots emitted light. Specifically, they tracked the formation of chemical bonds that produce light at higher temperatures and noted only weak light emissions after further heating the particles. Who this helps: This helps researchers and scientists exploring new materials for technology and medical applications.

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This study looked at how much Syrian refugees in northern Jordan understand kidney stones, which are a common health issue. Out of 487 refugees surveyed, many were unaware of the signs and symptoms; only 16% of men and 12% of women who experienced symptoms recognized them, and nearly 39% didn’t know which doctor to see for help. This lack of knowledge can lead to serious health problems, especially since most of the respondents had low levels of education and limited access to healthcare. Who this helps: This benefits Syrian refugees, as increased awareness can lead to better health outcomes.

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This study looked at how effective a non-invasive method, using an Ilizarov ring fixator, is for treating severe tibial plafond fractures, also known as pilon fractures. The researchers analyzed 33 patients and found that all fractures healed successfully, with an average healing time of 6.3 months and follow-up lasting around 50 months after treatment. Despite evaluating various factors, they discovered that the quality of the fracture reduction did not significantly impact the overall recovery scores. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with severe pilon fractures by offering a safer treatment option that avoids major surgery.

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This study looked at how pharmacy students in seven Middle Eastern countries understand antibiotic resistance and their attitudes toward its prevention. Researchers surveyed 4,265 students and found that on average, they scored 5 out of 7 on their knowledge of antibiotic resistance, with 71.4% showing a good understanding. Most students recognized the rising issue of antibiotic resistance and believed they should have more education on how to use antibiotics properly. Who this helps: This benefits pharmacy students and future healthcare professionals who will play a key role in tackling antibiotic resistance.

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This study looked at how to remove naproxen, a common anti-inflammatory drug, from wastewater using a special catalyst made of copper and titanium dioxide. They found that under the right conditions—specifically, using 50 mg of the catalyst in 100 mL of drug solution at an acidic pH of 4.55—they could break down 44.8% of the naproxen in just 3 hours. This is important because reducing drug levels in water prevents negative effects on aquatic life. Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists and wastewater treatment facilities.

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This study looked at how certain genes in mice respond to different levels of liver damage caused by acetaminophen, a common pain reliever. Researchers found that specific genes related to antioxidant defense, fat metabolism, and liver function changed significantly (by at least four times) in response to varying doses of the drug. Understanding these gene changes is important because it helps identify better ways to assess the risk of liver injury from medications. Who this helps: This benefits patients at risk of drug-induced liver injuries and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at how well pharmacists and community pharmacies in Amman, Jordan, were able to screen and educate people about Type 2 diabetes. Out of 305 participants, 44% were found to be at high risk for developing diabetes, and more than half scored below average on knowledge about the disease. This matters because it highlights a significant lack of understanding about diabetes, indicating a need for better education and awareness campaigns to prevent this growing health issue. Who this helps: This helps patients visiting pharmacies, especially those at risk for diabetes.

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This study examined a new type of bone scaffold made from strontium and zinc-infused materials to prevent infections common with bone grafts. The research found that scaffolds with 4% zinc successfully inhibited 99.7% of bacterial growth and also promoted healthy cell growth without being toxic. This matters because it provides a promising solution for reducing infections and improving recovery in patients receiving bone grafts. Who this helps: Patients needing bone grafts and surgeons who perform these procedures.

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This study looked at factors that might predict COVID-19 infection in Karak City, Jordan, using survey data from 386 people. They found that being female increased the risk of infection by 104%, and those over 45 years old had a 91% higher chance of getting infected compared to younger individuals. Understanding these factors is important for healthcare providers and officials to better manage resources and protect at-risk groups. Who this helps: Patients and healthcare policymakers.

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This study looked at how well different treatments work for children with excessive tearing due to a blockage in the tear duct. Out of 98 children aged 1 to 12, conservative treatments helped about 32.6% of the cases, while a surgery called dacryocystorhinostomy had an impressive success rate of 85.7%. Addressing related nasal or sinus issues is important for better treatment outcomes and reducing the chance of the problem coming back. Who this helps: This helps children with tear duct blockages and their parents.

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This study looked at how celecoxib, a drug that reduces inflammation, can protect the liver from damage caused by a substance called concanavalin A (ConA), which mimics autoimmune hepatitis in mice. Researchers found that giving mice a daily dose of 60 mg/kg of celecoxib for a week led to significant protection against liver damage, showing a 63% drop in liver enzyme levels, which indicate liver injury. This is important because it suggests that celecoxib can help manage autoimmune hepatitis by reducing inflammation and protecting liver cells. Who this helps: Patients with autoimmune hepatitis and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how certain genetic variations affect the amount of levothyroxine, a medication for hypothyroidism, that patients need. They found that two specific genetic markers, rs11185644 and rs2235544, help predict the optimal dosage: for certain genetic types, the recommended dose could be adjusted from the standard starting point of 1.6 micrograms per kilogram based on factors like age and disease duration. This is important because using genetic information could lead to more precise and effective treatment for hypothyroid patients. Who this helps: Patients with hypothyroidism.

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This study looked at the Squegg device, which measures handgrip strength, to see if it provides reliable and valid results compared to the more commonly used Jamar dynamometer. Researchers tested 30 volunteers, finding that both devices produced consistent results, with the Squegg showing a reliability score of 0.87 when different testers used it, and a strong correlation to the Jamar device (0.720). This matters because accurately measuring handgrip strength is crucial for tracking the health of patients with neuromuscular diseases. Who this helps: Patients with neuromuscular diseases and their doctors.

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This study examined the outcomes of diabetic patients with mucormycosis, a serious fungal infection. Out of 338 patients, 305 (90.2%) survived while 33 (9.8%) did not. The study found that patients who used steam inhalation had a significantly higher chance of survival, and men had a better survival rate (93.7%) than women (80.0%). Who this helps: This research benefits diabetic patients at risk of mucormycosis and their doctors by providing insights for better treatment options.

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This study focused on improving waiting times for patients receiving chemotherapy at an outpatient unit that serves 60 to 70 patients daily. By implementing a new early medication release program, the average waiting time dropped from 2 hours and 27 minutes to just 30 minutes over four years. This is important because shorter waiting times enhance the patient experience and help the facility serve more people efficiently. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients who need timely chemotherapy treatment.

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This study examined how cigarette smoking affects gene activity in the mouth's lining. Researchers analyzed samples from five smokers and five non-smokers and found that 459 genes were changed due to smoking, with 261 genes more active and 198 genes less active. These changes are linked to important processes that can lead to oral cancer and suggest possible ways to mitigate the harmful effects of smoking. Who this helps: This research can benefit patients at risk for oral cancers and doctors seeking better treatments for smoking-related damage.

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This study developed a new material that can be used to help repair and replace damaged bone. Researchers created a type of scaffold that mimics natural bone, using special compounds called strontium and zinc to make it stronger and more effective at promoting healing. They found that this scaffold had a good strength range similar to real bone, and it showed promising signs of encouraging integration with existing bone when tested in a lab. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing bone repairs, especially those with conditions like fractures or bone loss.

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This study looked at patients who had severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and found important information about how the virus affects the body. Researchers compared gene activity between 10 SARS patients and 4 healthy controls and discovered that certain drugs, including dexamethasone and interferon, could influence how genes respond during infection. Understanding these drug effects helps in developing treatments for SARS and other similar diseases, which is vital for protecting public health. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors treating respiratory infections like SARS and COVID-19.

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This study looked at how punicalagin, a substance found in pomegranates, and zinc ions affect the virus responsible for COVID-19. The researchers found that punicalagin significantly inhibited a key protein the virus needs to replicate, with a strong effect when combined with zinc, reducing viral activity by about 4.4 times. This research matters because it identifies a potential new treatment for COVID-19, especially as we still lack approved antiviral drugs. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from COVID-19.

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Researchers created new hybrid catalysts by attaching soybean peroxidase (an enzyme) to materials known as TiO and ZnO. They tested these catalysts to see how well they could break down 21 different pollutants, finding that while some pollutants were effectively degraded, others were only partially broken down or resistant to the enzyme. The TiO and ZnO hybrids worked better than the free enzyme for certain pollutants and maintained nearly full effectiveness after being used multiple times. Who this helps: This research benefits environmental scientists and public health officials working to reduce pollution.

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This study looked at how walking changes for people who suffered severe knee injuries called tibia plateau fractures and were treated with a specific device called a circular Ilizarov frame. Researchers found that while the mental health of patients improved to normal levels, their physical ability to walk remained poor, with only 40.6 out of 100 on a scale measuring physical health. Additionally, the affected leg showed significantly less support during walking compared to the other leg. Who this helps: This research benefits patients recovering from severe tibia plateau fractures by highlighting their ongoing challenges with mobility.

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This study looked at two ways to assess skeletal maturity in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: the Risser and Sanders classifications. Researchers found that about 22% of patients were at risk of receiving inappropriate treatment based on Risser criteria, meaning they could be undertreated when they actually still had growth remaining. This is significant because it highlights how relying on Risser staging could lead to not treating one in four patients correctly, especially impacting males and Hispanic youths. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and patients by providing a clearer method for making treatment decisions.

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This study looked at surgery outcomes for patients with hip fractures during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic at a hospital in the UK. They found that 9 out of 94 patients who had hip fracture surgery died, with 3 having COVID-19, but the overall death rate was similar to previous years. This is important because it suggests that performing essential surgeries during the pandemic did not increase the risk of death compared to earlier times. Who this helps: This information is valuable for doctors and hospital administrators making decisions about performing surgeries during health crises.

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This study researched how different methods of fixing hip implants—cemented versus uncemented—affect older patients after hip surgery for fractured neck of the femur. It looked at 42,411 patients across 34 studies and found that those with cemented implants reported less postoperative pain, but there was no clear difference in overall health outcomes or death rates between the two methods. This matters because it helps inform doctors' decisions on which type of fixation to use, aiming for better patient comfort without compromising safety. Who this helps: Older patients undergoing hip surgery and their healthcare providers.

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This study focused on a 30-year-old woman who had an unusual tumor, called an endometrioid stromal sarcoma, located in her inferior vena cava and right atrium. The tumor was successfully removed through surgery, which required special techniques to protect her heart and circulation. These tumors are related to endometriosis and can come back in over half of cases, emphasizing the importance of early detection and effective treatment. Who this helps: Patients with endometrioid stromal sarcomas and endometriosis.

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This study looked at how different materials used in surgical pins—specifically titanium, stainless steel, and hydroxyapatite-coated steel—affect the growth of bacteria that can cause infections. Researchers found that the amount of harmful bacteria was three times higher on stainless steel and four and a half times higher on hydroxyapatite-coated wires compared to titanium wires. This is important because choosing titanium for surgical pins can significantly reduce the risk of infections, leading to better recovery for patients. Who this helps: Patients undergoing external fixation surgery.

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This research looked at two treatments—Titanium Elastic Nails (TEN) and Spica casts—for broken thigh bones in children aged 2 to 16 years. The analysis of 1,012 patients found that TEN was better for healing and had a lower risk of complications, such as improper alignment of the bone. Specifically, TEN reduced malalignment risk to 39% compared to those treated with Spica casts. Who this helps: This helps children with femoral fractures and the doctors treating them.

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This study looked at the outcomes of 810 surgical procedures where doctors used a type of hip implant called a hydroxyapatite coated uncemented hemiarthroplasty in older patients with specific hip fractures. The researchers found that after one year, 11.2% of patients had died, which is considered a relatively low number for this type of surgery. The study shows that using uncemented implants is a safe option with few complications, making it a worthy alternative to cemented options. Who this helps: This benefits older patients undergoing hip surgery and their doctors.

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This study looked at how effective the Ilizarov frame, a type of circular external device used for bone treatment, is for patients aged 65 and older. Researchers treated 70 elderly patients, averaging about 71 years old, and found that most were successfully treated for fractures and other injuries, with low complication rates of around 5-7%. The patients reported improvements in both physical and mental quality of life after treatment, indicating that the Ilizarov frame is a safe and beneficial option for older adults facing these issues. Who this helps: This helps elderly patients needing treatment for fractures or other bone issues.

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This study developed and tested a new questionnaire called the Chertsey Outcome Score for Trauma (COST), designed specifically to assess how well orthopedic trauma patients recover and return to their pre-injury condition. Researchers collected 60 completed questionnaires, showing that the COST effectively measures recovery with strong reliability scores: 0.89 overall and individual scores for symptom, function, and mental status ranging from 0.74 to 0.84. This tool is important because it gives doctors a better way to evaluate trauma patients' progress and outcomes after treatment. Who this helps: This helps trauma patients and their doctors better understand recovery after injuries.

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This study focused on elderly patients who suffered hip fractures, examining how their blood levels and hospital stays were affected. Researchers found that 336 patients were admitted, with those having lower hemoglobin levels (below 110) more likely to need blood transfusions during their hospital stay, which also led to longer hospital stays. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring and potentially treating low blood levels in these patients before surgery to improve their recovery and reduce time spent in the hospital. Who this helps: This benefits elderly patients with hip fractures and their healthcare providers.

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Researchers developed a simple test called the "Chertsey test" to assess syndesmosis injuries in the ankle during surgery. They tested this new method on 15 patients and found it easy to perform, with no complications. The test effectively identified injuries and confirmed proper healing, which means it may help avoid unnecessary follow-up surgeries and reduce risks for patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients dealing with ankle fractures.

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This study looked at how well two different types of surgical plates—one placed on the inner side (medial) and one on the outer side (lateral)—stabilize a specific type of thigh bone fracture above the knee. The researchers found that the medial plate led to much less movement and strain at the fracture site, making it a more stable option than the lateral plate. This is important because choosing the more effective plating method can help patients heal better and faster after serious fractures. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe thigh bone fractures requiring surgical intervention.

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This study looked at how well the Ilizarov frame works for treating severe tibial plateau fractures in the knee, specifically types IV to VI, involving 105 patients over an average follow-up of nearly 8 years. The results showed that all fractures healed, with an average healing time of about 20 weeks, and patients maintained good movement in their knees (an average range of motion of 110 degrees) without any deep infections. This is important because it shows that a specific treatment can effectively manage serious fractures and help patients regain knee function over the long term. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe tibial plateau fractures and their doctors.