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Introduction: Effective Basic Life Support (BLS) interventions, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), are essential for enhancing survival rates. This review aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) of healthcare professionals regarding BLS in Arab countries. Methods: We conducted a systematic search on PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, and EMBASE, to identify relevant studies. We included studies performed in Arab countries that included healthcare workers' KAP assessment towards BLS. The meta-analysis was carried out utilizing the OpenMeta Analyst Software, and a subgroup analysis was performed for Nursing staff category. The quality of the included cross-sectional studies was assessed through Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale. Results: A total of 18 studies were included in our study, and eight of them entered the analysis. The study showed that 61.3% (95% confidence interval (CI): 48.9%, 73.7%, p

Introduction: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly used to treat acid-related disorders. Their appropriate use depends on the correct indications from the clinician. Owing to the high incidence of use and misuse, PPIs have been identified as an essential pharmacological class for developing deprescribing recommendations. Therefore, assessing physicians’ knowledge and practice regarding PPI usage is critical for paving the way toward targeted recommendations and efforts.Objective: This study aimed to assess Syrian physicians’ perceptions of proton pump inhibitors adverse effects, their benefit in upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) prophylaxis, and how these perceptions are related to PPI prescription practice.Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed using a web-based questionnaire distributed among Syrian physicians in internal medicine between 28 November and 23 December 2022. The questionnaire assessed perceptions and experiences of PPIs, concerns about specific adverse effects, and their effectiveness for UGIB prophylaxis, in addition to the different scenarios used to determine the best practice for appropriate treatment to manage minimal, mild, moderate, and high-risk UGIB patients.Results: A total of 473 participants completed the questionnaire, with median age ±SD was (28.46 ± 4.58), and most participants (83.3%) were residents. Approximately half of the participants (45.5%) agreed that discussion assistance was provided to continue or terminate PPIs properly. Only 8.9% were very familiar with published evidence of PPI adverse effects. Bone weakening and vitamin B12 deficiency were the most frequently reported side effects (81.8% and 79.7%, respectively). However, dementia (0.4%) and mortality (1.9%) were the least reported adverse effects. More than half of the participants (64%) perceived using PPIs to prevent upper GI bleeding. Non-trainee physicians were less knowledgeable about appropriate GERD management than resident physicians (p < 0.001).Conclusion: The study showed a gap between Syrian physicians’ perceptions and practices regarding PPI use, which necessitates spreading awareness of updated guidelines for PPI usage and their side effects.

Abstract Background Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy have an increased risk of cardiovascular complications. This limits the widespread use of lifesaving therapies, often necessitating alternate lower efficacy regimens, or precluding chemotherapy entirely. Prior studies have suggested that using common cardioprotective agents may attenuate chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. However, small sample sizes and conflicting outcomes have limited the clinical significance of these results. Hypothesis A comprehensive network meta-analysis using updated and high-quality data can provide more conclusive information to assess which drug or drug class has the most significant effect in the management of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. Methods We performed a literature search for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of cardioprotective agents in patients with chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. We used established analytical tools (netmeta package in RStudio) and data extraction formats to analyze the outcome data. To obviate systematic bias in the selection and interpretation of RCTs, we employed the validated Cochrane risk-of-bias tools. Agents included were statins, aldosterone receptor antagonists (MRAs), ACEIs, ARBs, and beta-blockers. Outcomes examined were improvement in clinical and laboratory parameters of cardiac function including a decreased reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), clinical HF, troponin-I, and B-natriuretic peptide levels. Results Our study included 33 RCTs including a total of 3,285 patients. Compared to control groups, spironolactone therapy was associated with the greatest LVEF improvement (Mean difference (MD) = 12.80, [7.90; 17.70]), followed by enalapril (MD = 7.62, [5.31; 9.94]), nebivolol (MD = 7.30, [2.39; 12.21]), and statins (MD = 6.72, [3.58; 9.85]). Spironolactone was also associated with a significant reduction in troponin elevation (MD = − 0.01, [− 0.02; − 0.01]). Enalapril demonstrated the greatest BNP reduction (MD = − 49.00, [− 68.89; − 29.11]), which was followed by spironolactone (MD = − 16.00, [− 23.9; − 8.10]). Additionally, patients on enalapril had the lowest risk of developing clinical HF compared to the control population (RR = 0.05, [0.00; 0.75]). Conclusion Our analysis reaffirmed that statins, MRAs, ACEIs, and beta-blockers can significantly attenuate chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, while ARBs showed no significant effects. Spironolactone showed the most robust improvement of LVEF, which best supports its use among this population. Our analysis warrants future clinical studies examining the cardioprotective effects of cardiac remodeling therapy in cancer patients treated with chemotherapeutic agents.

Abstract Background Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) represent a range of both psychiatric and physical symptoms that impair quality of life and interfere with daily activities in females. Aims To assess the prevalence of PMS and PMDD in Egypt, Jordan and Syria, its demographic associations and the potential link to sexual harassment (SH). Methods We used an Arabic version of the premenstrual symptoms screening tool (PSST) to assess the prevalence of PMS and PMDD. Another two-part questionnaire was used to assess the harassment experience. Results 22,021 women agreed to fill the questionnaire; the majority (65%) aged 18–25 years old. PMS was more prevalent in Egyptian women 77.7% followed by women from Jordan 72.9% then Syria 66.3%. PMDD prevalence followed the same order (40%, 34.7% and 28.2%). Both conditions were significantly associated with obesity and working in medical careers (P = .001). 5733 women agreed to share their sexual harassment experience. Results showed a significant association between the diversity and frequency of sexual harassment and the frequency of the pre-menstrual conditions, PMS Frequency was 87.6%, 80.7% and 78% in participants who were harassed on daily basis Vs. once weekly or monthly vs. few times in their lifetime (p = .04). A similar statistically significant difference was noticed regarding having PMDD (66.4% vs. 47.6% vs. 42.5%). Conclusion The study showed high levels of both PMS and PMDD. The data provided by this study also sheds light on a potential link between SH and developing Pre-menstrual disorders.

Abstract Recent evidence suggests that vaccination against influenza may reduce the clinical outcomes of COVID-19. This study looked at the link between influenza vaccination and the severity of COVID-19 infection. We searched five databases until August 2021. We included studies that reported the relationship between influenza vaccination and COVID-19 outcomes. We pooled the data as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), the data pooled using fixed and random effects models according to the heterogeneity of results. Sixteen observational studies with 191,496 COVID-19 patients were included. In terms of mechanical ventilation, our analysis showed a significant favor for the influenza vaccinated group over the non-vaccinated group (RR = 0.72, 95% CI [0.54, 0.96], P = 0.03). However, the analysis indicated no statistically significant differences between vaccinated and non-vaccinated groups in the term of mortality rate (RR = 1.20, 95% CI [0.71, 2.04], P = 0.50), hospital admissions (RR = 1.04, 95% CI [0.84, 1.29], P = 0.75), intensive care admissions (RR = 0.84, 95% CI [0.44, 1.62], P = 0.60). There were no significant differences between those who had received the influenza vaccine and those who had not in COVID-19 clinical outcomes, except for mechanical ventilation which showed a significantly lower risk in the influenza vaccinated group compared to the non-vaccinated one. However, future research is encouraged as our data have limitations, and the influenza vaccine is regularly updated. Also, this does not exclude the importance of the influenza vaccine during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aim: To assess the safety and efficacy of omecamtiv mecarbil compared with placebo in heart failure (HF) patients. Methods: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS until August 15th, 2021. We included all randomized controlled studies comparing omecamtiv mecarbil with placebo in heart failure patients. The meta-analysis was carried out using Rev Man software V5.4. Results: A total of eight studies were included in our systematic review. Pooled analysis showed that omecamtiv mecarbil is not associated with increased incidence of death, any adverse events, hypotension, heart failure, ventricular tachyarrhythmia, dyspnea, dizziness, and serious adverse events. Regarding the efficacy, omecamtiv mecarbil significantly reduced heart rate with some studies demonstrating its significant improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction and systolic function.Conclusion: Omecamtiv mecarbil is a well-tolerated drug in heart failure patients. The limited data regarding the efficacy suggested that it may improve ejection fraction and systolic function.

Introduction In certain circumstances, mobile stroke units (MSU) with on‐site treatment teams and a computed tomography scanner may offer faster therapy with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) for stroke patients who need immediate treatment. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to compare clinical outcomes in MSU patients to those in conventional care. Methods We searched key electronic databases from inception till September 2021. The primary outcomes were mortality at 7 days and 90 days. The secondary outcomes included modified Rankin scale (mRS) at 90 days, alarm to intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) or intra‐arterial recanalization, and time from symptom onset or last known well (LKW) to thrombolysis. Results We included nineteen controlled trials and cohort studies to conduct our final analysis. Our comparison revealed that 90‐day mortality rate significantly declined in MSU group as compared to conventional care group (OR = 0.81, 95%CI [0.69,0.95]), while there was no significant difference at 7 days (OR = 0.88, 95%CI [0.68,1.15]). As regard achieving functional independence at 90 days (mRS = 0–2), MSU showed better results (OR = 1.24, 95%CI [1.03,1.49]). MSU was associated with shorter time from symptoms onset or LKW to thrombolysis (MD = ‐36.79, 95%CI [‐47.48, ‐26.10]) and alarm to IV thrombolysis or intra‐arterial recanalization (MD = ‐29.69, 95%CI [‐34.46, ‐24.92]). Conclusions Stroke patients treated in MSU had a lower incidence of the 90‐day mortality. They also had better functional independence at 90 days and time from symptom onset or LKW to thrombolysis than those treated with conventional care.

Abstract Background The involvement of the undergraduates in the research field requires a better view of their potential and the anticipated barriers facing them. This study aims to assess the undergraduates' knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceived barriers towards research in six Arab countries. Methods A cross sectional study included medical students from six Arab countries, where a self-administered five-section questionnaire was used to assess the students' demographics, knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceived barriers. The questionnaire was distributed in the online educational platforms of the participating medical schools in the six included countries. Results The total sample of recruited students was 2989, the majority of students (91.6%) showed poor level of knowledge regarding research. Generally high levels of positive attitudes towards research, research relevance and usefulness were found, with moderate levels of perception of research anxiety and difficulty. 33.7% (n = 1006) participated in an actual research project before with a mean of .5 publications per student. Cross-sectional studies were the most common type of studies conducted by students (38.6%), followed by case reports (23.9%). Lack of access to lab equipment for lab research (68.1%), the priority of education over research (66.8%), and lack of time because of educational tasks (66.1%) were generally the top perceived barriers towards research practice. Conclusion In the current study, the participants showed a poor knowledge level with associated positive attitudes towards research. One third of the students participated in research projects that mostly were cross-sectional studies and case reports. Educational tasks and lack of support were the most prevalent barriers. The students' positive attitudes towards research need to be translated into better knowledge and appropriate practice, which can be done by development of better training systems and more structured mentoring.

Objective The adherence to public health recommendations to control COVID-19 spread is influenced by public knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP). We performed this cross-sectional study to assess the levels and determinants of public KAP towards COVID-19 in a large, multinational sample.Design Cross-sectional study (survey).Setting The questionnaire was distributed to potential respondents via online platforms.Participants 71 890 individuals from 22 countries.Methods We formulated a four-section questionnaire in English, followed by validation and translation into seven languages. The questionnaire was distributed (May to June 2020) and each participant received a score for each KAP section.Results Overall, the participants had fair knowledge (mean score: 19.24±3.59) and attitudes (3.72±2.31) and good practices (12.12±1.83) regarding COVID-19. About 92% reported moderate to high compliance with national lockdown. However, significant gaps were observed: only 68.2% knew that infected individuals may be asymptomatic; 45.4% believed that antibiotics are an effective treatment; and 55.4% stated that a vaccine has been developed (at the time of data collection). 71.9% believed or were uncertain that COVID-19 is a global conspiracy; 36.8% and 51% were afraid of contacting doctors and Chinese people, respectively. Further, 66.4% reported the pandemic had moderate to high negative effects on their mental health. Female gender, higher education and urban residents had significantly (p≤0.001) higher knowledge and practice scores. Further, we observed significant correlations between all KAP scores.Conclusions Although the public have fair/good knowledge and practices regarding COVID-19, significant gaps should be addressed. Future awareness efforts should target less advantaged groups and future studies should develop new strategies to tackle COVID-19 negative mental health effects.

Objectives The burden of childhood obesity is clustered among children in low-socioeconomic groups. Social spending on children—public welfare expenditure on families and education—may curb childhood obesity by reducing socioeconomic disadvantages. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between social spending on children and childhood obesity across the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries.Design Ecological study.Setting Data on social spending on children were obtained from the OECD Social Expenditure Database and the OECD educational finance indicators dataset during 2000–2015. Data on childhood obesity were obtained from the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration database.Participants Aggregated statistics on obesity among children aged 5–19 years, estimated for OECD 35 countries based on the measured height and weight on 31.5 million children.Outcome measures Country-level prevalence of obesity among children aged 5–19 years.Results In cross-sectional analyses in 2015, social spending on children was inversely associated with the prevalence of childhood obesity after adjusting for potential confounders (the gross domestic product per capita, unemployment rate, poverty rate, percentage of children aged