Faculty Publications (CoM)

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Cenani-Lenz syndrome: a case of De Novo dual LRP4 mutations
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2025-09-28) Salam, Donna
Background: Cenani-Lenz syndrome (CLS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder that causes malformation in limb development most commonly affecting the hands and feet, along with variable craniofacial and renal anomalies. This condition results from mutations in the LRP4 gene, disrupting a critical signaling pathway essential for limb and organ development. CLS has been reported in families from the Middle East and South Asia, with our case adding to its occurrence in Africa. Case presentation: We report a case of a 5-year-old Sudanese male, the first-born child of consanguineous parents, presenting with severe bilateral hand and foot deformities, including complex syndactyly, oligodactyly, absent thumbs, and facial dysmorphism. The radiographs revealed bilateral complex deformities of the hands and feet, including shortened and disorganized metacarpals and phalanges, with features of syndactyly and ectrodactyly. The left hand showed only three abnormally shaped phalanges, while both feet exhibited reduced metatarsal counts and dysplastic, fused toe bones. He had no delay in developmental milestones or renal involvement. Whole-exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous variants in LRP4 which were a frameshift mutation (c.3813del; p.Thr1272Leufs*18) classified as likely pathogenic, and a missense mutation (c.4910G > A; p.Cys1637Tyr) of uncertain significance. The patient underwent multiple surgical interventions to his hands, however, significant functional limitations persist. Conclusions: This case expands on the clinical spectrum of CLS and highlights its presence in African populations, reinforcing the importance of considering CLS as a differential diagnosis of complex limb malformations in regions with high consanguinity by supporting the integration of genetic testing into early diagnostic pathways for limb malformations. Given its significant impact on daily function, early genetic diagnosis and a multidisciplinary management approach are crucial for optimizing outcomes, particularly in families with a history of limb malformations. Our findings: Enabling more accurate classification and timely intervention. Distinguishing CLS from other limb malfunction syndromes through genetic testing is essential.
Mapping human brain cell type origin and diseases through single cell transcriptomics
(2025-10-06) Balan, Bipin; Nassir, Nasna; Berdiev, Bakhrom K; Benamer, Hani T S; Uddin, Mohammed
The human brain, a pinnacle of biological complexity, comprises a diverse array of cell types that regulate cognition and maintain neural homeostasis. Advances in single-cell transcriptomics have revolutionized neuroscience by enabling high-resolution molecular profiling, revealing unprecedented insights into cellular heterogeneity, lineage dynamics, and disease-associated states. Large-scale brain-mapping initiatives have identified numerous novel cell types, yet their functional roles in health and disease remain poorly understood. This review synthesizes current knowledge of brain cell diversity, from neurogenesis to pathological states, and highlights key gene markers that define cellular identity and function. By integrating insights from single-cell transcriptomics, we explore how cellular diversity shapes brain function and contributes to disease mechanisms, providing a foundation for future research and translational applications.
Implementing SERENA6 in the clinic in the UAE: critical thinking of a community oncologist
(2025-10-09) Dawood, S
No Abstract Available
miRNA biomarkers for prognosis and therapy monitoring in a multi ethnic cohort with SARS-CoV-2 infection
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2025-08-21) Khansaheb, Hamda H; Alqassim, Saif S; Alsheikh-Ali, Alawi
This study aimed to identify miRNA-based biomarkers in a multi-ethnic cohort of SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals to enhance preparedness for future variants of concern. A total of 31 healthy controls and 154 infected patients were enrolled, from which 13 matched controls and 38 infected nasal swab samples were analyzed using miRNA sequencing, followed by qRT-PCR validation. Among the 1788 miRNAs detected, 14 differentially expressed miRNAs and four novel miRNAs were identified, with novel-miR-264-5p showing a ≥ 2-fold change. Correlation with clinical markers highlighted several miRNAs as potential prognostic biomarkers. Seven miRNAs, including miR-146b-3p, miR-154-5p, miR- 5010-3p, miR-127-3p, miR-335-3p, miR-30c-5p, and miR-202-5p, showed strong prognostic potential. Combined ROC analysis demonstrated that a panel of top-performing miRNAs significantly enhanced diagnostic accuracy (AUC 0.939–0.972; p < 0.0001). Moreover, integrating miRNA biomarkers with clinical parameters further improved performance (AUC = 0.982; p < 0.0001). miR-146b-3p, detected exclusively in infected patients, emerged as a highly specific biomarker. Several nasal miRNAs mirrored blood profiles, highlighting the utility of nasal swabs for non-invasive monitoring. Collectively, these findings suggest that miRNA-based biomarkers, alone or combined with clinical markers, offer a promising platform for COVID-19 prognosis and diagnosis, and lay groundwork for future miRNA based antiviral strategies.
Pathogenic variation underlying rare diseases in an Arab Population: implications for screening programs
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2024-11-12) Chekroun, Ikram; Rabea, Fatma; Abuijlan, Eman; Uddin, Mohammed; Almarri, Mohamed; Alkhnbashi, Omer S; Khansaheb, Hamda H; Al Suwaidi, Hanan; Du Plessis, Stefan S; Alsheikh Ali, Alawi; Tayoun, Ahmad Abou
Background: Genetic variation underlying rare diseases in Arab populations is poorly understood, limiting effective carrier screening for recessive disorders which are prevalent due to high consanguineous rates. Methods: Using the ACMG/AMP guidelines, we curated pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants in 1,333 Arab Emirati families (346 internal cohort and 987 from the literature). We also analyzed coding pathogenic variants in 1,194 Emirati exomes, calculated allele frequencies, and estimated carrier rates for the associated recessive conditions. Results: Among the 1,333 families, 701 out of 855 variants met the ACMG/AMP criteria for pathogenicity, with 52% and 30% being absent from the gnomAD and ClinVar databases, respectively. Independently, we determined the frequency of coding pathogenic variants in 1,194 Emirati exomes as well as cumulative gene-disease carrier rates. The CYP21A2 gene showed the highest carrier rate (10.6%) followed by HBB (9.6%), MEFV (5.9%) and ABCA4 (4.3%). Using a provisional gene list for carrier screening, based on our analysis, we estimate the rate of at-risk couples (4–21%) which varies across different screening gene lists recommended in other populations. Conclusion: Our findings emphasize the necessity of identifying prevalent diseases in underrepresented populations to develop effective and equitable preventive public health measures, including premarital screening programs.
The Medication Related Burden Quality of Life (MRB-QoL) tool: A confirmatory factor analysis of the Arabic version
(Elsevier BV, 2025-03) Hafidh, Khadija
Background: The Medication-Related Burden Quality of Life (MRB-QoL) Arabic version is a 31-item valid and reliable measure of medication burden on functioning and well-being. Objective: To examine the factor structure of the MRB-QoL Arabic in a sample of adults living with long-term conditions (LTC). Methods: Three hundred forty-three patients (≥18 years old) living with at least one LTC were recruited from 4 tertiary hospitals in the United Arab Emirates. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed using Maximum likelihood estimation with bootstrap. Two models (first order and second order) were examined. Model fit indices, composite reliability (CR), and average variance extracted (AVE) were used to assess the model's goodness of fit, reliability, and convergent/discriminant validity, respectively. The model's fit was evaluated using absolute fit, comparative fit, and parsimony-adjusted indices. The RMSEA and SRMR ≤0.08, χ2/ df <5, and CFI, IFI, and TLI ≥0.90 were considered indicators of good model fit. PNFI and PCFI >0.5 were also considered as indicators of good fit. CR ≥0.7, AVE ≥0.5, and AVE greater than squared factors correlation were considered as evidence indicating reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity, respectively. Results: The first-order model showed an excellent fit (χ2/df =3.262, RMSEA =0.08, SRMR =0.05, CFI =0.913, TLI =0.914, IFI =0.914, PNFI =0.810, PCFI =0.841) as did the second-order model (χ2/df =2.845, RMSEA = 0.073, SRMR =0.072, CFI =0.934, TLI =0.923, IFI =0.915, PNFI =0.820, PCFI =0.851). All domains of the MRB-QoL met the convergent/discriminant validity and reliability criteria. Conclusions: The study supports the factor structure from previous research and confirms the MRB-QoL Arabic as a valid and reliable measure. This tool can be used to assess medicines burden from patient perspectives and facilitate person-centred care in medicines optimisation services across Arabic-speaking countries.
Detection of gene variants associated with recessive limb girdle muscular weakness and Pompe disease in a global cohort of patients through the application of next-generation sequencing analysis
(2024) Al Madani, Abubaker
Introduction: Hereditary myopathies arise due to numerous pathogenic variants occurring in distinct genes, which amount to several hundred. Limb–girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMDs) constitute a heterogeneous group of neuromuscular disorders involving more than 30 genes. Clinically, LGMD is characterized by limb–girdle muscular weakness (LGMW). Late-onset Pompe disease is an important disorder with a differential diagnosis for LGMD, where next-generation sequencing (NGS) plays a crucial role in accurate and prompt diagnosis. The sensitivity and specificity of a 10-gene NGS panel have been previously evaluated for the prevalent forms of recessive LGMD (LGMD-R) and Pompe disease in Latin American patients with LGMW of unknown cause. This project aims to identify the regional relative prevalence of frequent LGMD-R subtypes and Pompe disease in a larger geographic area and to diagnose patients with LGMW by identifying genetic variants of LGMD-R and Pompe disease. Methods and Results: This 21-country multicentric analysis enrolled 2,372 patients with LGMW from 2017 to 2018. Sequencing analysis was performed using the Illumina Next Seq 500 system, and variant interpretation was performed according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines. Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were seen in 11% of patients (n = 261). Among the positive cases, NGS effectively diagnosed 86.2% and 13.8% of patients with LGMD and Pompe disease, respectively. The most prevalent pathogenic acid αglucosidase (GAA) variant identified was c.-32-13T > G. Conclusion: The study adds to the knowledge of the relative occurrence of various subtypes of LGMD worldwide. The inclusion of GAA in the NGS panel to investigate patients with LGMW is a powerful diagnostic approach to screen for late-onset Pompe disease.
Medwakh smoking induces alterations in salivary proteins and cytokine expression: a clinical exploratory proteomics investigation
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2025-01-17) Soares, Nelson C
Background: Medwakh smoking has radically expanded among youth in the Middle East and around the world. The rising popularity of medwakh/dokha usage is linked to the onset of several chronic illnesses including cardiovascular diseases and cancers. Medwakh smoking is reported to increase the risk of inflammation in the lower respiratory tract owing to oxidative burden. To date, there are no reported studies investigating the impact of medwakh smoking on salivary protein profile. The current study aims to elucidate alterations in the salivary proteome profile of medwakh smokers. Methods: Saliva samples collected from 33 medwakh smokers and 30 non-smokers were subjected to proteomic analysis using UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS. Saliva samples were further subjected to validatory experiments involving analysis of inflammatory cytokine profile using LEGENDplex™ Human Essential Immune Response Panel. Results: Statistical analysis revealed alterations in the abundance of 74 key proteins including immune mediators and inflammatory markers in medwakh smokers (Accession: PXD045901). Proteins involved in building oxidative stress, alterations in cell anchorage, and cell metabolic processes were enhanced in medwakh smokers. Salivary immune response evaluation further validated the proteome findings, revealing significantly higher levels of IL-1β, IL-12p70, IL-23, IFN-γ (Th1 cytokines), IL-6 (Th2 cytokine), and MCP-1 (chemokine) in medwakh smokers. In addition, a substantial increase in abundance of involucrin suggesting a plausible stratified squamous cell differentiation and increased cell lysis in the oral cavity of medwakh smokers akin to chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). The protein–metabolite joint pathway analysis further showed significantly enriched differentially expressed proteins and metabolites of glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, pentose phosphate, fructose and mannose, nicotinate and nicotinamide, and glutathione metabolism pathways among medwakh smokers. Conclusions: The findings of the study provide valuable insights on potential perturbations in various key immune molecules, cytokines, and signaling pathways among medwakh smokers. Medwakh smokers displayed elevated inflammation, increased oxidative stress and defective antioxidant responses, dysregulated energy metabolism, and alterations in proteins related to cell adhesion, migration, differentiation, and proliferation. The findings of study underscore the urgent need for comprehensive public health interventions among youth by raising awareness, implementing effective smoking cessation programs, and promoting healthy lifestyle to safeguard the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.
Association of Circulating Neprilysin with BMI, Cardiovascular Health, and Kidney Function in High-Risk Pregnancies: A Pilot Study
(MDPI AG, 2024-12-28) Goswami, Nandu
Background/Objectives: Inadequate cardiovascular adaptation during pregnancy impairs endothelial function and vascular resistance, contributing to complications such as pre-eclampsia (PE) and gestational hypertension (GH). Neprilysin (NEP), a protease involved in vascular regulation, has been linked to PE, but its role in endothelial function and vascular adaptation remains unclear. This pilot study investigates the associations between soluble neprilysin (sNEP) and markers of vascular and renal function in high-risk pregnancies without PE. Methods: Observed parameters were analyzed in 29 high-risk pregnant women across early, mid-, and late pregnancy. sNEP levels were analyzed alongside body mass index (BMI), endothelial dysfunction (ADMA), arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity, PWV), retinal microvasculature (central retinal arteriolar and venular equivalents, CRAE and CRVE), and kidney function markers. The impact of gestational hypertension (GH) and prior smoking on sNEP levels was also evaluated. Results: In early and mid-pregnancy, sNEP was inversely associated with BMI. During mid-pregnancy, sNEP showed a positive correlation with CRAE and an inverse correlation with PWV, suggesting reduced arterial stiffness. By late pregnancy, sNEP was positively associated with glomerular filtration rate and inversely correlated with creatinine and protein levels, reflecting improved kidney function. Women with GH exhibited elevated sNEP, while former smokers had lower sNEP levels in early pregnancy. Conclusions: These findings suggest that sNEP plays a role in vascular and renal adaption during pregnancy, offering newperspectives on vascular tone regulation in high-risk pregnancies. Further research is needed to clarify these mechanisms and their clinical relevance.
Infrared and Raman spectroscopy of blood plasma for rapid endometrial cancer detection
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2025-05-18) Atiomo, William
Background: Endometrial cancer (EC) is the 6th most common cancer among women worldwide. No effective non-invasive screening methods or approved blood biomarkers for EC exist. Previous research explored Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FtIR) and Raman spectroscopies, using dried blood plasma. Fresh, ‘wet’, blood samples, that might provide faster results, have not been investigated. This study compared ATR-FtIR and Raman spectroscopies on ‘wet’ and dry blood plasma samples for EC detection. It also conducted a preliminary exploration into their diagnostic potential for EC in high-risk individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods: ‘Wet’ and dry blood plasma samples from participants with EC, PCOS and healthy controls were analysed using ATR-FtIR and Raman spectroscopies. Machine learning algorithms and multivariate statistical analyses assessed spectral variance across datasets to evaluate the techniques’ diagnostic performance. Results: Raman analysis of ‘wet’ plasma achieved 82% accuracy in detecting EC, while ATR-FtIR spectroscopy reached 78%. When combined, diagnostic accuracy reached 86%. In comparison, dry plasma analysis with ATR-FtIR detected EC with 83% accuracy. Spectral similarities were found between EC and PCOS. Conclusions: Our study suggests that ATR-FtIR and Raman spectroscopies could revolutionise early diagnosis of EC. More research is required to validate these promising findings.
Association of family history of cardiovascular disease with the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in young adults in the United Arab Emirates: The UAE healthy future study
(Public Library of Science (PLoS), 2025-03-12) Loney, Tom
Introduction: Family history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease, and the risk increases with number of family members affected. It offers insights into shared genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors that influence heart disease risk. In this study, we aimed to estimate the association of family history of CVD and its risk factors, as well as the number of affected parents or siblings, with the prevalence of major cardiometabolic risk factors (CRFs) such as hypertension, dysglycemia, dyslipidemia and obesity in a sample of young adults. Methods: The study utilized a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from the UAE Healthy Future Study (UAEHFS), involving 5,058 respondents below the age of 40 years. Information on parental and sibling health regarding heart disease and stroke, hypertension, type 2 diabetes (T2D), high cholesterol and obesity, was gathered through a self-completed questionnaire. CRFs were estimated based on body measurements, biochemical markers and self-reported conditions. Multivariate regression analyses were used to examine the associations between categories of family history and the estimated CRFs. Results: More than half (58%) of the sample reported having a positive family history of CVD or its risk factors. The most common family history reported was T2D and hypertension, which accounted for 39.8% and 35% of the sample, respectively. The prevalence of all CRFs was significantly higher among those with a positive family history compared to those without family-history (P < 0.001). The prevalence and likelihood of having a CRF increased as the number of parents and/or siblings affected increased, indicating a potential dose-response trend. The odds were highest among individuals with both parental-and-sibling family history of disease, where they increased to 2.36 (95% CI 1.68-3.32) for hypertension, 2.59 (95% CI 1.86-3.60) for dysglycemia, 1.9 (95% CI 1.29-2.91) for dyslipidemia and 3.79 (95% CI 2.83-5.06) for obesity. Conclusion: In this study, we addressed the effect of family history as an independent risk factor on the major CRFs for the first time in the region. We observed that the majority of young Emirati adults had a positive family history of CVD-related diseases. Family history showed a strong association with the increased prevalence of CRFs. Additionally, having more relatives with specific diseases was associated with a higher risk of developing CRFs. Identifying people with a history of these conditions can help in early intervention and personalized risk assessments.
Waist to Height Ratio as a predictor of cardiovascular and metabolic health in a pediatric population
(Public Library of Science (PLoS), 2025-07-09) Goswami, Nandu; Aleksandra Klisic
Background: Understanding the relationship between central adiposity and health outcomes in children is crucial for early prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Waistto-height ratio (WHtR) has emerged as a key anthropometric measure for predicting cardiovascular and metabolic health risks. Methods: The objective of this study was to investigate whether WHtR is associated with cardiovascular and metabolic risk markers, including HbA1c, CRP, lipid profiles, blood pressure, ferritin, and iron levels, in healthy children aged 6–12 years. The study further aimed to assess WHtR’s potential as a screening tool for identification of cardiometabolic risk. Results: An association between WHtR and unfavorable lipid profiles, with elevated total cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol levels, alongside decreased HDL levels in the highest WHtR quartile, were displayed, suggesting increased cardiovascular risk. Similarly, the combination of high erythrocyte count, low hematocrit (HCT), high ferritin, and low iron, combined with high CRP may imply chronic inflammation due to adiposities. Elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure values further underscore this cohort’s cardiovascular risks associated with central adiposity. Conclusion WHtR’s ability to predict metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors highlights its potential as a simple, non-invasive screening tool in pediatric healthcare. Implementing WHtR in routine health assessments could provide an accessible and cost-effective method for early identification of at-risk children, enabling timely interventions to improve long-term health outcomes.
Review of microgravity's impact on cardiovascular and nervous systems in space exploration
(2025-10-30) Alzaabi, Fatema M
Microgravity induces cardiovascular adaptations, including fluid shifts, cardiac remodeling, and autonomic changes. Acute responses involve increased preload and stroke volume, while chronic adaptations include cardiac atrophy, vascular remodeling, and autonomic impairment, contributing to post-flight orthostatic intolerance. These changes raise concerns for long-term astronaut health. Understanding these adaptations is crucial for developing countermeasures to mitigate spaceflight-related cardiovascular risks and may offer insights applicable to terrestrial medicine.
Efficacy of Lamotrigine in the Treatment of Unipolar and Bipolar Depression: Meta-Analysis of Acute and Maintenance Randomised Controlled Trials.
(2025-10-21) Arnone, Danilo
Background/Objectives: Lamotrigine has been widely investigated in the treatment and prevention of the emergence of symptoms of depression in unipolar and bipolar depression. This work systematically appraises published and unpublished double-blind randomised controlled trials of lamotrigine to provide up-to-date guidance on the use of lamotrigine in the presence of depressive symptoms. Methods: Systematic searches identified 32 randomised controlled trials, of which 24 were included in the meta-analysis, involving 2257 patients and 2320 controls. Results: Evidence supports the use of lamotrigine in the acute phase of bipolar depression in monotherapy vs. placebo (SMD: 0.155; CI: 0.005-0.305) in the absence of significant heterogeneity and small study effects. In the prophylaxis of bipolar depression, lamotrigine reduced the risk of the emergence of depressive symptoms (RR: 0.78; CI: 0.63, 0.98) and prolonged the duration of symptoms survival (RR: 1.59; CI: 1.19, 2.11) compared to placebo, with no evidence of publication and small study bias. Lamotrigine was not found to be superior to lithium in the acute treatment and prophylaxis of bipolar depression. In the treatment of unipolar depressive episodes, with the inclusion in the analyses of three unpublished studies, lamotrigine was not superior to placebo in monotherapy and as adjunct treatment. There were no maintenance studies in unipolar depression. Conclusions: There is evidence supporting the use of lamotrigine in monotherapy as acute and prophylactic treatment of bipolar depression. Evidence of the use of lamotrigine in unipolar disorders is lacking. PROSPERO registration ID: CRD42025633709.
Optimizing gestational diabetes diagnostic criteria to predict adverse perinatal outcomes in the United Arab Emirates: The Mutaba'ah Study.
(2025) Loney, Tom
Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects 25% of pregnancies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and there is a need for evidence-based diagnostic criteria. This study aimed to determine the optimal diagnostic criteria for GDM in the Emirati population based on predicting adverse perinatal outcomes.
Expert Opinion Report on the Challenges in the Management of Psoriatic Arthritis in United Arab Emirates: A Focus on Interleukin-17 Inhibitors
(2025) Harifi, Ghita
Purpose: To seek recommendations from a panel of experts in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) on the current management challenges, local practices, and role of interleukin (IL)-17 inhibitors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) using evidence from phase III trials as background.
Postgraduate Paediatric Orthopaedics: The Candidate's Guide to the FRCS(Tr&Orth) Examination, Second EditionBook Chapter2024
(Cambridge University Press, 2014-07-31) Alshryda, Sattar
Preface only. No abstract.
Interactive website
(Cambridge University Press, 2014-07-31) Alshryda, Sattar
This newly updated and expanded second edition brings together the information that every trainee needs to know when faced with paediatric cases in their clinical practice and the FRCS (Tr and Orth) examination, as well as the European Board of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, FRACS (Orth), FRCSC (Orth) and the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery examinations. The content is organised according to body regions, with step-by-step guides to common paediatric orthopaedic operations. This new edition includes colour illustrations, additional clinical photographs, charts and radiographs, and updated management guidelines. Tips, tricks and avoidance of common pitfalls guide candidates to success in their examinations, and the book gives particular attention to areas of the syllabus that trainees find particularly challenging. The concise, evidence-based chapters are written by practising paediatric orthopaedic surgeons to reflect the core knowledge expected of a newly appointed consultant. This is the essential revision guide for the paediatric component of the FRCS (Tr and Orth) and other orthopaedic examinations. © Cambridge University Press 2024.
From classroom to bedside: The role of point of care ultrasound in undergraduate medical education
(Wiley, 2024-10-14) Buhumaid, Rasha; Salman, Hira; Kilian, Paddy
Introduction: Point‐of‐Care Ultrasound (POCUS) has become an indispensable tool for diagnosis, monitoring, and procedure guidance in various medical specialties. Structured POCUS training is essential to provide users with the knowledge and skills needed for clinical practice. Many medical schools have integrated POCUS into their curriculum to familiarize their students with this technology early on in their medical careers. Objective: This review aims to explore the integration of POCUS into the undergraduate medical education curriculum, discussing its benefits, challenges, barriers, and strategies for effective implementation. Discussion: The POCUS educational framework uses various methods that combine the delivery of theoretical knowledge with practical skills training. It is highly recommended that medical schools include the fundamentals of ultrasound physics and knobology, structural anatomy, physiology, basic pathology of various organs, and basic instructions on ultrasound needle guidance for procedures in their POCUS curriculum. Importantly, the curriculum should include a comprehensive plan for assessing competency. The integration of POCUS into undergraduate medical education offers several benefits, including facilitating the teaching of basic sciences, enhancing physical examination skills, improving clinical problem‐solving abilities, preparing students for future clinical work, and enhancing the overall educational experience. However, there are challenges associated with this integration, such as a limited availability of qualified instructors, the high financial and logistical investment required, and the complexities of incorporating POCUS into an already compact medical curriculum. With the advancements in ultrasound technology and the integration of artificial intelligence, future research studies are needed to assess how these developments influence the integration of POCUS in undergraduate medical education.
Knowledge, attitude, and perception regarding the respiratory syncytial virus vaccine among healthcare professionals
(Informa UK Limited, 2025-03-28) Hammour, Walid Abu
Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a significant respiratory pathogen. Despite vaccine availability, uptake remains low, and healthcare professionals play a key role in promoting immunisation. This study aims to evaluate healthcare providers' knowledge, perceptions and practices regarding the RSV vaccine. Methods: A validated survey was distributed to healthcare professionals. The study questionnaire contained sections to assess sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of RSV and its vaccines, healthcare professionals' perception towards RSV and its vaccines, and their perception towards the potential barriers against RSV vaccination. The last section assesses physicians' previous practice in dealing with RSV infection. Results: Over half of the participants (56.6%) had no prior awareness of RSV, though many recognised its potential severity, particularly in vulnerable populations like children and older adults (52.6%). Awareness of FDA-approved RSV vaccines was limited, with only 28.1% of respondents familiar with vaccines intended for older adults. Views on vaccination recommendations for older age groups were divided; 23.7% supported vaccination for those 75 and older, while 31.1% advocated for vaccination in those aged 60-74 at higher risk. Perceived barriers to RSV vaccination were prominent. Most respondents (85.1%) cited concerns about vaccine safety as a key obstacle, and 81.1% identified out-of-pocket costs as a significant barrier. Testing for RSV was infrequent (24.6%), mainly due to a lack of effective treatment. Most participants (96.9%) called for greater awareness and education about RSV vaccines, and 91.2% supported recommending the vaccine if it was available and free. Conclusion: This study reveals significant gaps in healthcare professionals' knowledge and practices regarding RSV and its vaccines, with substantial barriers to vaccine adoption. Targeted education, improved diagnostics, and addressing vaccine barriers are essential strategies for improving the healthcare response to RSV.

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