Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a cluster of cardiometabolic risk factors, is highly prevalent among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those undergoing hemodialysis (HD). This study investigated the prevalence, characteristics, and clinical implications of MetS among Sudanese HD patients at Kassala and Al-Gadarif Kidney Centers in Eastern Sudan. A hospital-based case–control study was conducted between September 2021 and June 2024, enrolling 70 HD patients and 70 age- and sex-matched healthy controls from each center. Key metabolic parameters—including waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and lipid profiles (triglycerides and HDL cholesterol)—were assessed. MetS was diagnosed according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. The findings showed that 38% of Kassala HD patients and 42% of Al-Gadarif HD patients fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for MetS. Compared to controls, HD patients from both centers had significantly higher waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and triglyceride levels (p < 0.0001). HDL cholesterol was markedly lower (p < 0.0001). Patients in Al-Gadarif exhibited slightly higher renal and metabolic abnormalities—including elevated urea, creatinine, waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides, and fasting glucose—alongside lower HDL cholesterol compared with Kassala patients, suggesting a heavier metabolic burden. These results underscore the heightened cardiovascular risk among Sudanese HD patients, with Al-Gadarif patients demonstrating a marginally greater prevalence of MetS. Early detection, regular monitoring, and comprehensive management strategies—including lifestyle modifications, pharmacological therapy, and region-specific interventions—are urgently needed to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in this vulnerable population.

Drug addiction not only affects an individual, but it has now become a critical social and public health issue that has consequences for families as well as routine functioning in society. Addiction ravages families, erodes emotional bonds, and leads to financial, social and psychological strains. The present study focused on exploring how drug addiction affects families, including the socio-economic and emotional effects, as well as coping and recovering mechanisms used by families. The particular domains were family interactions, daily routines, economic well-being, psychological distress and coping strategies. A quantitative research design was applied and data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 384 respondents. Sample size was calculated using Cochran’s formula and data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings showed that drug addiction greatly increases family conflict, decreases trust, and hinders communication and emotional bonding. Affecting everyday practices including personal routines, financial management, hygiene and performance at work or school. Family members faced severe psychological stress, and coping strategies included obtaining emotional support from family members and professional counseling as well as getting involved with the community, although low access to counselor service and government assistance persisted. Their research provides a compelling argument for the adoption of comprehensive approaches that include family-based support systems, rehabilitation frameworks, awareness-driven programs, and bolstered social services to counter the adverse effects of drug addiction and improve recovery pathways.

Tetanus is a life-threatening neurotoxic disease caused by Clostridium tetani, with clinical manifestations primarily attributed to tetanospasmin. However, the contribution of tetanolysin, a cholesterol-dependent cytolysin produced by C. tetani, remains poorly characterized. Here, we propose that tetanolysin plays a critical facilitating role in early tissue injury and toxin dissemination. Furthermore, we introduce a novel hypothesis that bioactive compounds derived from Lamium album, particularly phytoecdysteroids, may attenuate tetanolysin activity via antioxidant and lipid-modulating mechanisms. Given the cholesterol dependency of tetanolysin pore formation, modulation of membrane lipid dynamics represents a plausible therapeutic target. This perspective integrates bacterial toxin biology with phytochemical pharmacology and highlights tetanolysin as a potentially modifiable determinant of tetanus severity. Experimental validation of this hypothesis may open new avenues for adjunctive interventions in toxin-mediated bacterial diseases.

Background: Cyperus esculentus L. is a herbaceous plant which grows well in Northern Nigeria and other parts of the world. The rhizomes among other uses are used to process an artisanal beverage called ‘kunun-aya’ in Northern Nigeria while the leaves have other medicinal uses. Objective: This study was aimed at assessing the chitosan nanoparticles treatment approach for artisanal ‘kunun-aya’ beverages sold in some Northern Nigeria markets against resistance microorganisms found in the drink. Method: Phytochemical contents, metallic elements, and physicochemical analysis of the rhizome extract were assessed following standard procedures. The artisanal ‘kunun-aya’ beverage was prepared by fermentation process following local methods of preparation in large basin. The preparation of chitosan nanoparticles was carried out using nano spray drying technique while microbial analysis and susceptibility testing were carried out using standard methods. Results: The results showed that there are Escherichia coli, coliform bacteria, Bacillus spp., Aspergillus sp., Penicillium spp., Streptococcus spp., Salmonella-Shigella and Staphylococcus aureus in all the artisanal kunun-aya beverages obtained from all the local markets. The presence of these microorganisms was prevalent in those obtained from the Kano, Bauchi and Sokoto markets while those obtained from the Jos markets were the lowest. The study did not show heavy presence of heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic and lead. The study further showed that kunun-aya beverage mediately prepared using chitosan nanoparticles did not show any microbial growth on culture media after 48 hours. Similarly, there was no presence of either heavy or trace metals when the sample was analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Finally, there were no significant differences (p < 0.05) among the artisanal kunun-aya beverages from various northern Nigeria markets. Conclusion: The study, therefore, showed that chitosan nanoparticles-mediated treatment for kunun-aya (Cyperus esculentus) beverages is a promising treatment strategy against microorganisms found in artisanal kunun-aya local beverages sold in northern Nigeria.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints. The conventional system of medicine offers a wide range of treatments, but there is no cure for RA. In the Unani system of medicine, several Unani formulations and regimens are effectively used to manage Waja‘al-Mafāṣil (RA). Therefore, the present case report aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Unani formulation (Nuskha-e-Munzij) along with wet cupping (Ḥijāma bi’l Sharṭ) as an adjuvant therapy for RA. A 40-year-old female patient diagnosed with RA, based on the 2010 ACR/EULAR Rheumatoid Arthritis classification criteria, was treated with standard treatment along with Unani formulation (Nuskha-e-Munzij), in the form of a decoction, which was given for 21 days, after which wet cupping (Ḥijāma bi’l Sharṭ) was performed, 3 sittings fortnightly. The patient showed a significant reduction in subjective parameters (i.e., VAS, DAS 28 score, swelling, stiffness, restricted movement, tenderness) and objective parameters (i.e., CRP, RA factor, and ESR). RA factor (quantitative) was 260 IU/ml at baseline, significantly reduced to 88.9 IU/ml after 7 weeks of treatment. There were no adverse effects reported during the treatment. Therefore, Unani formulation (Nuskha-e-Munzij) and wet cupping (Ḥijāma bi’l Sharṭ) were found effective and safe for treating rheumatoid arthritis as an adjuvant therapy to standard treatment.

Tramadol, a widely prescribed analgesic for moderate to severe pain, has raised concerns due to its association with an increased risk of seizures. This literature review aims to explore the role of pharmacokinetics in tramadol-induced seizures. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analyzing studies ranging from cross-sectional and cohort studies to case reports and animal research. The results indicate a complex relationship between tramadol dosage and seizure risk, with some studies suggesting a dose-dependent risk while others highlight individual variability and genetic predispositions. Based on the reviewed literature, we hypothesize that individuals with downregulation or low expression of Mu opioid and GABA receptors are at an increased risk for tramadol-induced seizures due to altered neurotransmitter modulation and impaired inhibitory control over neuronal excitability. This study emphasizes the need for cautious tramadol prescription and suggests further research into biomarkers that could predict seizure risk in patients taking tramadol.

Background: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the predominant form of nonscarring alopecia, characterized by a progressive and predictable loss of hair. Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is influenced by genetic susceptibility and heightened follicular sensitivity to androgens, predominantly in males, resulting in the gradual transformation of scalp terminal hair into vellus hair. Despite its great prevalence, it is not lethal but may exert a significant emotional influence, particularly on females and younger boys. Substantial progress has been achieved in comprehending the epidemiology and pathophysiology of AGA; nonetheless, only two medications have received FDA approval: finasteride and minoxidil. Extended administration of these medications is essential for improved therapeutic response. Nonetheless, this results in inadequate medication adherence and negative consequences from prolonged use, such as the "post-finasteride syndrome," which endures after discontinuation of the medicine. Consequently, research is required to identify more effective alternative treatments for AGA that exhibit less adverse effects. Prior study demonstrated the effectiveness of polyphenols in addressing metabolic disorders. The root of Beta vulgaris was considered for the current inquiry. Purpose: Current work was designed to check efficacy of root extract and their bioactive for anti-alopecic potential. Methodology: Scientific validation of the current investigation was done by computational based molecular docking study of lead molecules of Beta vulgaris root against 5α-reducatase (SRD5As) enzyme. Result: The root of Beta vulgaris has been identified as an effective anti-alopecic drug, with its lead compounds, 4-picoline and Betalain, demonstrating effective binding to the target protein 5α-reductase (SRD5As) with binding energies of -4.09 and -7.93 kcal/mol, respectively. Conclusion: The findings indicated that each selected lead chemical for additional investigation shown significant inhibitory activity against 5'-reductase (SRD5 As), hence revealing its anti-alopecic potential.