oxic methyl alcohol is widely employed in industry, and it is highly toxic. Only 15 cc ingestion can result in irreversible blindness. The mechanism of toxicity is still a matter of debate. This study was conducted to investigate the incorporation of nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and Nrf2 signaling pathways in the toxicity of the brain, eye, and pancreas following ingestion of methyl alcohol and the possible protective role of PPAR-γ modulators. Twenty-four adult Wister albino rats were divided into four groups of six rats each: a control group, a pioglitazone group, a methanol group, and a combined pioglitazone and methanol group. Oxidative stress markers, random blood sugar, insulin, and pancreatic function measurements were evaluated. Western blot analysis for PPAR-γ and Nrf2 protein expressions was performed. Histopathological examination was performed for eye, brain, and pancreas tissues, and the results were compared. PPAR-γ seemed to be incorporated in the development of organ toxicity associated with methyl alcohol ingestion. The protective role of PPAR-γ modulators was achieved through the improvement of assessed pathways. Therefore, damage can be dramatically improved through incorporating PPAR-γ agonists in the management plan of methyl alcohol toxicity.

The current study aimed to investigate the molecular toxic effects of zinc sulfide (ZnS) and zinc sulfide nanoparticles (ZnS-NPs) on rat skeletal muscle tissue. It also explored the forensic implications of ZnS toxicity on postmortem carrion infestation, particularly its potential impact on postmortem interval (PMI) estimation. ZnS nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thirty Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control, ZnS-treated, and ZnS-NP-treated (both administered at the LD50 dose of 2000 mg/kg). Muscle tissues were harvested for histopathological, ultrastructural, and acridine orange staining analysis. Arthropods were collected and identified across five decomposition stages to assess changes in carrion infestation patterns. Histopathological and ultrastructural analysis showed marked deformation, necrosis, and degeneration of muscle fibers, more severe in the ZnS-NP group. Collagen deposition significantly decreased in both treatment groups. Electron microscopy revealed dissociation and degradation of myofibrils with increased interfibrillar spacing. Arthropod analysis indicated altered colonization patterns, with decreased adult abundance and disrupted succession stages, especially during the active decay phase. ZnS and ZnS-NPs induce significant skeletal muscle toxicity that may mimic postmortem autolysis and lead to PMI misinterpretation. ZnS-NPs exert more severe effects than bulk ZnS. The observed entomological disruption highlights the forensic relevance of ZnS exposure and underscores the need for integrated toxicological and entomological analyses in PMI estimation.

The current aim was to evaluate the protective effects of chitosan nanoparticles against cadmium chloride (CdCl2)-induced hepatic and renal toxicity and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms with a focus on the modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis via the Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-kappa B/iNOS signaling pathways. Four groups were used: group I (control), group II (CS-NPs), group III (CdCl2), and group IV (CdCl2 + CS-NPs). Biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical studies of hepatorenal parameters were performed. Cadmium showed renal dysfunction (increased creatinine and urea), hepatic dysfunction (elevated ALT, AST, and ALP), and disturbed oxidative homeostasis (elevated MDA and decreased antioxidant enzyme activities; SOD, CAT, and GPx in the liver and kidney). The pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) were significantly increased in tissues. In addition, cadmium displayed histopathological alterations in the architecture of the kidney and liver, elevated the expression levels of caspase-3, NF-kappa B, and iNOS, and decreased Nrf2 and HO-1. Interestingly, CS-NPs significantly restored kidney function, liver function, and oxidative homeostasis. CS-NPs also reduced pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-6, TNF-alpha, and IL-1 beta), restored renal and hepatic architecture, decreased the expression levels of caspase-3, NF-kappa B, and iNOS, and increased Nrf2 and HO-1 levels. Therefore, cadmium caused hepatorenal toxicity by causing oxidative stress and affecting NF-kappa B/iNOS and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways. These findings demonstrate that chitosan nanoparticles effectively alleviate cadmium-induced renal and hepatic injury through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms by modulating Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-kappa B/iNOS pathways. Chitosan nanoparticles may represent a promising nanotherapeutic approach against heavy metal-induced organ toxicity.

The study aimed to assess the toxic effect of cadmium (Cd) on the exocrine and endocrine functions of pancreas, the changes in pancreatic tissue after Cd withdrawal, and the protective effects of vitamin C (VC) and Nigella sativa (NS) against Cd-induced damage. Rats were assigned to: control, Cd-treated (0.5 mg/kg/d intraperitoneal [IP] injection), VC and Cd-treated (receiving 100 mg/kg/d VC orally and Cd concomitantly), NS and Cd-treated (receiving 20 mg/kg/d NS and Cd, simultaneously), and Cd withdrawal (receiving Cd for 30 d then living free for recovery for other 30 d). Blood samples were collected and post-sacrifice pancreatic specimens were processed for light and electron microscope study. Quantitative analyses of pancreatic collagen area%, pancreatic islet parameters, β cell density, and insulin immunoexpression were done. Fasting blood glucose was significantly increased in Cd-treated and Cd-withdrawal groups, while co-treatment with VC and NS caused significant reductions (p < 0.05). Cd-induced extensive degenerative changes in pancreatic acini and islets at light and ultrastructure levels. Obvious fibrosis and congestion of blood vessels were noticed. Significant reductions in pancreatic islet number, volume, and surface area and diminished beta cell count and insulin immunoexpression were observed. After withdrawal of Cd, the whole pancreatic tissue still showed a serious impact. Concomitant treatment with VC or NS obviously reduced these degenerative changes and significantly improved pancreatic islet parameters and insulin immunoexpression. VC showed a better amendment than NS, but this difference was statistically insignificant. Therefore, VC and NS could be used as prophylactic agents that lessen Cd consequences on the pancreas.

Background and Objective: Forensic entomotoxicology examines how toxins affect the development of arthropods that feed on decaying bodies, which can influence post-mortem interval (PMI) calculations. This research focuses on the impact of ZnCoS nanoparticles (NPs) on the decomposition stages of rat carcasses and their effects on Dermestes maculatus; a species of forensic relevance. Materials and Methods: Thirty albino rats were assigned to control and treatment groups, receiving different doses of ZnCoS NPs. The decomposition was observed daily for a month, with arthropods collecting regularly. The development rates and structural changes in Dermestes maculatus were examined using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results: Exposure to ZnCoS NPs resulted in a 22–33 hour delay in the PMI for specific insect species. Structural damage, especially to the wings of Dermestes maculatus, was evident, showing signs of apoptosis. These findings indicate that ZnCoS NPs alter both insect growth and the rate of decomposition. Conclusion: ZnCoS NPs have a notable impact on decomposition and PMI estimation, underscoring the importance of further forensic investigation into nanoparticle toxicity. SEM and TEM proved an efficiency in conducting postmortem toxicological analyses.

Abstract:This paper discusses the implementation and evolution of progress testing as an assessment technique in problem-based learning atthe College of Medicine, King Faisal University, in collaboration with the University of Groningen, Netherlands. Despite the successfulintroduction of a local progress test, this paper notes the reluctance of students in Arab culture to embrace this method due to concernsabout its impact on their grade point average. The research outlines a 5-year experience with international high-stakes progress testingbased on European universities and describes the establishment of a local progress test system. A cross-sectional study design wasemployed to analyze the passing rates of medical students from their first to fifth year, using data from 2018 to 2020. The studypopulation included 1450 students with a gender distribution of 50/50. The results highlight two main achievements of the local progresstest system. Firstly, the development of a blueprint based on block teaching contents and curriculum learning outcomes from year 1 to 5.This blueprint served as a foundation for the assessment. Secondly, the establishment of an individual performance feedback system,facilitated by a confidential online platform using students’academic numbers. In conclusion, the research suggests that progress testingcan be successfully integrated into Arab culture, serving as a comprehensive assessment tool. It emphasizes the importance ofrecognizing progress testing as a key knowledge assessment method in the curriculum. This paper provides insights into the process,compares international and local experiences, and offers recommendations for further improvement of the local progress testing system

In underdeveloped nations, multidrug resistance has grown to be a serious problem. Multidrug resistance bacterial infections lead to a significant increase in patients, death and the cost of prolonged treatment. For this, there is an urgent need to design strategies to improve the antimicrobial potential of therapeutic agents. The current review aims to synthesize chitosan-coated organic Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) and camel milk and use them to treat many diseases. A chitosan has activities that include the antitumor, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. These traits position them as promising therapeutic polymers. Camel milk has also shown diverse applications, affecting various aspects such as bone health, muscle function, blood standards, brain function, pancreatic activity, immune response, cancer prevention, infection resistance, metabolism, wound healing, learning, and aging. Metal-Organometallic frameworks (MOFs) are an extremely modifiable hybrid material, consisting of metal ions bound together by organic bonds that have been used as excellent drug delivery agents for cancer and many other diseases. We also highlight the role of chitosan in remove fine suspended particles and heavy metals from polluted the environment. A discovery about the power of chitosan, which was manufactured from food waste and used as a green solution to new environmental challenges.

In an aquatic environment, determining the cause and manner of death for
bodies recovered from water can be quite challenging. Postmortem modifications
add another layer of complexity to this process. First, it must be established that
the recovery site is the primary death scene; for example, a death may occur on
land, with the body subsequently disposed of by being submerged in water, and
vice versa. Therefore, understanding how environmental conditions and variables
affect the distribution of arthropods, including insects, on carcasses is essential for
estimating the time interval after death. However, research and references
focusing on the relationship between arthropods and corpses from a forensic
perspective are sparse and often disconnected, particularly regarding the aquatic
environment and aquatic arthropods. These organisms play a significant role in
corpse analysis and detection during investigations, especially in criminal cases
involving the flotation of bodies infested with fly larvae. The presence of these
larvae is influenced by the aquatic environment, which is affected by various
factors such as water type, chemicals present, physical characteristics, microbes in
the surrounding water, and seasonal variations at the time of death. While many
larvae have been identified at different developmental stages, their overall
quantity tends to be lower compared to those typically found on terrestrial
carcasses. Nonetheless, the presence of aquatic insects on corpses can serve as a
valuable indicator of the location of death in relation to the aquatic environment.
Thus, arthropod analysis is an important tool in investigations involving cadavers
discovered in aquatic settings.

The use of natural materials in modern times is one of the interests of
science. In recent years, there has been a rapid and exciting development in
the use of biologically- based organic materials, for example, innovative drug
treatments, with a focus on addressing, diabetic wound healing, cancer, and
infectious diseases. Focus on tissue responses, chitosan has been registered as
a representative lightweight organic material for its distinctive properties, such
as formability, processability, non-toxicity, and chemical activity, in addition
to its compatibility with chemical flame and chemical sensitivity. Most
importantly, it has antimicrobial activity and promotes wound healing. In this
work, the applications of chitosan were used as a wound dressing. Optimized
chitosan was estimated for wound healing through topical cream application
for three successive days on surgical cuts made in (Lumbricus castaneus)
earthworms, as an alternative for human skin. The outcomes showed
conspicuous decreases in both wound closure and re-epithelialization duration
in chitosan-treated earthworms as evident through macroscopic examination
and thorough histological scrutiny utilizing light and electron microscopy, in
comparison with the control group. In summation, these findings posit that a
wound dressing in chitosan holds promise as a catalyst for wound healing.
Future endeavors will delve into scrutinizing the intricate mechanisms
underlying this influential phenomenon.

The utilization of nanoparticles in agricultural land is widely increasing worldwide. The present study takes the
advent from converting the rice husk waste to silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) to be used in two years of field experiments,
as fertigation treatment, against reducing irrigation by drip system. In this respect, the experiments
comprised of three drip irrigation regimes (i.e., 60, 80, and 100 % of crop evapotranspiration, ETc) and four
levels of SiNPs (0, 100, 200, and 300 mg L? 1). The results indicated that limited irrigation reduced the plant fresh
weight, plant height, and yield of eggplants by 15, 25, and 30 %, an average of two years, at the level of 60 % ETc
compared to 100 % ETc. However, these negative impacts were alleviated by SiNPs via improving the photosynthetic
pigments and relative water content where the plants supplemented with 300 mg L? 1 SiNPs had the
highest improving effects to be 3.8 mg g? 1 FW and 76 % compared to 2.2 mg g? 1 FW and 63 % (average of two
years), respectively at the drought level of 60 % ETc. Furthermore, SiNPs ameliorated the oxidative damage
induced by different water regimes by lessening lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide (10.9 and 85.4 μM g? 1
FW) compared to their drought level 60 % ETc (14 and 113 μM g? 1 FW). This was associated with stimulating the
antioxidant enzyme system by promoting the activities of peroxidases (ascorbate- and guaiacol-dependent types),
catalase, and superoxide dismutase as the concentration of silica NPs increased to be (173.84, 12.2, 49.5, and 41
unit/mg/min, respectively) at 60 % ETc and 300 mg L? 1 SiNPs compared to only 60 % ETc (100.5, 7.9, 32, and
30.5 unit/mg/min, respectively). Also, efficiently increasing SiNPs levels highly significantly restrained the ionic
homeostasis in the leaves of eggplant via retaining the reduction of silicon, potassium, calcium, and magnesium
contents at 300 mg L? 1 silica NPs especially at 60 % ETc (33, 19, 4.5, and 6 mg g? 1 DW, respectively) compared
to the corresponding drought level (17.33, 7, 2.1, and 3.7 mg g? 1 DW, respectively) which reflected on the upregulation
of water status. Such amelioration effects of SiNPs were recommended during the two studied seasons.
Altogether, the synthesized SiNPs efficiently mitigated the negative impacts of limited drip irrigation levels on
ionic homeostasis, pigments, oxidative stress, and antioxidant system especially at the level of 300 mg L? 1