Research Title: Prevalence of physical activity and its association with atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk factors in young women in the middle east: a sub-analysis of the ANCHORS study

Author: Ahmad Mohammad Hassan Al-bashaireh, Published Year: 2025

BMC Public Health, 25 (1)

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Background Physical inactivity is a major driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) globally, with women in transitional regions like the Middle East facing unique challenges. This is the first study in the Middle East to explore the prevalence of physical activity and its association with ASCVD risk factors in young women, as part of a sub-analysis of the ANCHORS study. Methods In this cross-sectional Analysis of 626 women aged 18–50 from the ANCHORS study (2021–2023), participants were categorized as physically active (≥ 150 min/week) or inactive based on self-reported exercise. Data on traditional and emerging ASCVD risk factors were collected through questionnaires and physical assessments. Statistical analyses included chi-square, t-tests, and logistic regression, adjusting for age, residence, education, and BMI. Results Only 25.1% of participants met recommended physical activity levels. Inactivity was significantly associated with higher BMI (p < 0.001), postpartum weight retention (p = 0.010), and a history of gestational hypertension (p = 0.001) and diabetes (p = 0.015). No link was found with dyslipidemia or family history of CVD. Surprisingly, active women reported more depressive symptoms (p = 0.042), possibly indicating greater mental health awareness. Conclusions Physical inactivity is widespread among young Middle Eastern women and closely linked to key ASCVD risk factors. These findings highlight an urgent need for culturally tailored physical activity strategies that also consider mental and social health influences.

Keywords: Physical Activity, Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular, Young Women, Middle East, ANCHORS study

Research Title: Flaxseed-Coated Titanium: A Natural Antibacterial Strategy for Dental Implants

Author: Raida W. Khalil, Published Year: 2025

JIDMR, 18

Faculty: Science

Abstract: Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) has been used since ancient times for its nutritional and medicinal properties. It is increasingly recognized for its rich content of bioactive compounds, including antioxidants and antimicrobial agents. In the field of dentistry, titanium (Ti) is widely utilized for implants due to its biocompatibility; however, implant-associated infections remain a clinical concern. This has led to interest in natural bioactive coatings that could enhance antimicrobial protection. This study aimed to evaluate the in-vitro antimicrobial activity of flaxseed-coated titanium plates against common oral pathogens. Titanium specimens were coated with flaxseed extract and tested against Staphylococcus aureus and Porphyromonas gingivalis using agar diffusion methods. Zones of inhibition were measured and compared to positive (broth) and negative (ethanol) controls. Experiments were conducted in triplicate, and data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. The flaxseed-coated titanium exhibited measurable antibacterial activity, with zones of inhibition comparable to those produced by ethanol and broth. Notably, the combination of flaxseed and ethanol showed enhanced antimicrobial effects against both bacterial strains. The findings demonstrate that flaxseed extract has promising antimicrobial potential when used as a coating on titanium surfaces. This natural, plant-based approach may contribute to the development of antimicrobial dental implants and help reduce postoperative complications related to infection.

Keywords: Assessments; Antibacterial activity; Flaxseed; Titanium plates

Research Title: Alkaloid production of Solanum elaeagnifolium Cav from callus for anticancer potential using gene expression of cancer-related genes

Author: Raida W. Khalil, Published Year: 2025

PLOS One , 20

Faculty: Science

Abstract: Cancer is one of the major diseases that threaten human life and causes death for many people worldwide. Some alkaloids derived from plants show promising potential for cancer treatment. Solanaceae family is of these plants that have promising alkaloid. In this study alkaloid production from Solanum elaeagnifolium callus cultures was investigated and their anticancer properties were evaluated. Optimal callus growth and alkaloid production were achieved in media enriched with a combination of BAP and 2,4-D at a ratio of 1.0:1.0 mg/L. LC-MS/MS analysis showed that β-Solamargine, tomatidenol, Solasonine, solanidine and solasodine are the most important alkaloids of Solanum elaeagnifolium. Moreover, the analysis revealed that β-Solamargine is the predominant alkaloid (78.7%) in callus extracts. The results of MTT assay, demonstrated that the most effective response were obtained from callus extracts medium containing a balanced concentration of BAP and 2,4-D, and it yielding an IC50 of 6.25 µl/ml. In contrast, lower efficacy was observed with IC50 values of 25 and 50 µl/ml, when callus medium were supplemented with NaCl and yeast extract, respectively. Gene expression analysis shows an increase in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio following 24 h of the extracts treatment. Along with a down regulation of CDK1 gene expression in comparison to untreated MCF7 cells, the CDK1 levels were elevated. Alkaloids derived from S. elaeagnifolium may be a promising candidate for anticancer therapy; further investigation is needed in vivo.

Keywords: Solanum elaeagnifolium Cav; anticancer

Research Title: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Associated with Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Recommendation Among Healthcare Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Study

Author: Rania Nafi Suleiman Mohammad Al_sabi, Published Year: 2025

Infectious Disease Reports, 17

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Background: Cervical cancer remains a significant global public health concern, with human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination serving as an effective preventive measure. Despite its proven efficacy, HPV vaccine uptake in Jordan remains low. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) influencing HPV vaccine recommendation among healthcare professionals. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between August 2023 and February 2024 among 304 healthcare professionals and trainees in Amman, Jordan, using a pre-validated questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, correlational analyses, and Firth’s penalized logistic regression were employed to examine predictors of vaccine recommendation behavior. Results: Positive attitudes (OR = 3.89; p < 0.001) and active clinical practice (OR = 5.02; p < 0.001) were strong predictors of HPV vaccine recommendation. Unexpectedly, higher knowledge scores were associated with reduced likelihood of recommending the vaccine (OR = 0.44; p = 0.032). Significant variation in KAP scores was observed across professional groups, with physicians and academic staff demonstrating higher levels of engagement. Conclusions: Attitudes and practical engagement were more influential than knowledge alone in shaping HPV vaccine recommendation behavior among healthcare professionals. These findings underscore the need for interventions that not only enhance knowledge but also foster supportive attitudes and strengthen clinical advocacy skills. The results provide actionable evidence to inform targeted strategies for increasing HPV vaccine uptake and reducing cervical cancer incidence in Jordan.

Keywords: human papillomavirus vaccination; cervical cancer; healthcare professionals; knowledge; attitudes; practices; Jordan

Research Title: Smart Polymeric Carriers for Efficient Drug Delivery

Author: Mohammad Bayan, Published Year: 2025

Faculty: Pharmacy

Abstract: Smart polymeric materials are usually made with synthetic monomers rather than natural ones. They have the ability to swell/shrink according to the conditions of their aqueous/biological environments and thus affecting their release kinetics. These conditions can be changed chemically (such as pH) or physically (such as temperature). The thermoresponsive hydrogel systems are based on the ability of polymers to exhibit a volume phase transition or a sol-gel phase transition at their characteristic critical temperature. Photoresponsive hydrogels have photo-reactive cross-links or pendant groups attached to their primary polymeric backbone. Enzyme-sensitive hydrogels have enzyme-reactive cross-links or pendant groups attached to their polymeric backbone, which react with a specific enzyme to elicit a stimulus-responsive hydrogel swelling or collapse. Different body parts have different pH values, and different tissues have different pH values under both healthy and unhealthy circumstances. This supports developing pH-responsive polymeric systems for targeted and controlled delivery of pharmaceuticals and biotechnological agents. Smart polymers can also display either a volume phase transition or a sol-gel phase transition at a specific temperature, which is the basis for thermoresponsive polymeric systems. Reactive cross-links or pendant groups coupled to their main polymeric backbone are characteristics of photoresponsive polymeric systems. Enzyme-reactive cross-links, or pendant groups, are affixed to the polymeric backbone of enzyme-sensitive polymeric systems. These cross-links allow the polymeric system to react to an external stimulus by either contracting or swelling when a specific enzyme is present. The development of smart polymeric carriers and their use in drug delivery are covered in this chapter.

Keywords: Polymers, drug delivery, hydrogels, p-HEMA, smart carrier

Research Title: Nanopolymers for Smart Drug Delivery Applications

Author: Mohammad Bayan, Published Year: 2025

Faculty: Pharmacy

Abstract: For smart drug delivery applications, nanopolymeric materials are widely employed in the pharma and biotech industries. Nanopolymers are nanostructured polymers, and they contribute significant modifications to the intrinsic properties of a matter. Thus, they can swell/shrink according to the aqueous/biological environments affecting the drug release kinetics. The development of smart polymeric carriers and their use in drug delivery are the current topics in scientific research. This chapter detailed the drug delivery applications of nanopolymers in ocular delivery, targeted delivery of drugs to cancer cells, cardiac tissue engineering, and dental adhesive therapy. Moreover, we have highlighted the polymeric and magnetism characteristics for smart drug delivery.

Keywords: Nanopolymers, smart carrier, ocular drug delivery, oncogenic treatment

Research Title: Polymers in Novel Drug Delivery Systems: Strategies and Enhancement of Vesicular Polymeric Nanocarrier Loaded with Bioactive Phytoconstituents for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Author: Mohammad Bayan, Published Year: 2025

Faculty: Pharmacy

Abstract: Some conventional RA treatments have adverse effects, while others worsen the illness. Even a rare negative effect must be balanced against the drug's therapeutic potential. Conventional drugs that pass early testing and are approved for human use cannot treat RA. Flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins prevent and cure RA with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and enzymatic capabilities. These secondary metabolites include several disease-fighting chemicals. Thus, these secondary metabolites may provide an alternative to RA medications that improve quality of life. Recent studies have revealed that nano/submicrocarriers may deliver phyto molecules to the RA site for better medication localization and therapy efficacy. Nanocarrier safety data in vitro , in vivo , and optimum bioactive delivery need more investigation. Nano/submicromedicine may become the main approach for bioactive delivery for RA treatment.

Keywords: Polymers, nanocarriers, targeted, vesicular nanocarrier, novel

Research Title: Polymers in Functional Foods and Drugs: Chemistry and Essential Applications

Author: Mohammad Bayan, Published Year: 2025

Faculty: Pharmacy

Abstract: Master the cutting-edge intersection of polymers and medicine with this essential guide, offering both a theoretical understanding and practical applications for innovative drug and food product development. Polymers are showing promise as a solution in a number of fields, including pharmaceuticals, medicine, diagnostics, medical devices, and biotechnology. In the development of drug products, polymers play an important role in nano-formulation development. Also, polymers contribute significantly to functional foods, nutraceuticals, and nutritional supplements. They are used as preservatives, enhancing the shelf life of foods, supplements, and herbal nutraceutical products. This book provides readers with a theoretical understanding and practical applications of polymers in new drug discovery and food product development. It covers a broad spectrum of topics, from fundamental principles and concepts to applications, discussing natural, synthetic, and semi-synthetic polymeric materials. The chapters explore in-depth applications in medical devices, implants, nanosponges, and biological delivery systems, all of which are increasingly important in today’s industry. Discussions on specialized topics, such as natural micropolymers in functional foods and dietary supplements, makes this an essential guide for anyone looking to stay up-to-date with the current trends in pharmaceutical and biotechnology research and development. Readers will find the book: Comprehensively covers natural polymers and their applications in controlled drug delivery; Encompasses interdisciplinary science around polymers in functional food; Explores the delivery of drugs in the current practice of using synthetic polymers. Audience Researchers, scientists, and industry experts working with polymers in the field of pharmaceuticals medicine, diagnostics, medical devices, biotechnology, and nutrition.

Keywords: biodegradable polymers Biol biological biomaterials biomedical applications biopolymers carriers cellulose Chem chemical chitin chitosan collagen controlled drug controlled release copolymers cross-linking CrossRef CSNPs Cyclodextrin degradation Dendrimers doxorubicin Drug Deliv drug delivery systems drug release effects efficacy encapsulation enhance enzymes formulation Functional Foods gene delivery https://doi hyaluronic acid hydrogels hydrophilic hydrophobic improved interactions liposomes loaded Macromol materials matrix mechanical medical devices medicine method micelles microneedles modified molecular molecules nanocarriers nanocellulose nanofibers nanomaterials nanomedicine nanoparticles nanosponges

Research Title: Polymers in the Biological Sciences

Author: Yousef Abdel-Kareem Abusamra, Published Year: 2025

Faculty: Pharmacy

Abstract: Through developments in its primary fields, polymer science has experienced a fascinating rise in depth, breadth, and diversity at the overlapping of physics, materials science, supramolecular chemistry, nanoscience, biophysics, and biology. The transition from the initial publication of Comprehensive Polymer Science to the existing version of Polymer Science (A Comprehensive Reference) reflects these advances. Without the advancement of polymer science, none of these disciplines would be possible today. Nowadays, scientists influence the new knowledge and ideas of polymer research based on the many cutting-edge creative methodologies that sprout from the roots of their aforementioned subjects.

Keywords: Polymer, biological sciences, comprehensive reference,

Research Title: Academic Dishonesty Among Students in Higher Education: ACross-Sectional Study From Jordan

Author: Maha Mohammed Wahbi Atout, Published Year: 2025

Nursing forum , 2025

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Background: Since academic dishonesty compromises academic integrity (AI) and learning quality worldwide, it is essential tounderstand the frequency of this behavior among Jordanian students, as well as its contributing causes, to design efectivepreventive strategies. Tis study aimed to examine academic dishonesty from the perspective of Jordanian higher educationstudents and to evaluate the infuence of specifc demographic factors on academic dishonesty.Methods: A cross-sectional study collected data from 301 undergraduate and postgraduate students in governmental and privateuniversities across a range of specialties in Jordan. An online self-report questionnaire that included an engagement in academicdishonesty (EAD) survey was used for this purpose. A Kruskal–Wallis t-test was conducted to examine diferences in students’perceptions of academic dishonesty according to demographic characteristics. Te Pearson r value was used to examine anycorrelations between age and academic dishonesty.Results: Among 301 participants, the average age score for university students’ EAD was moderately low, 2.27 (standarddeviation � 0.76). Te results also revealed statistically signifcant diferences in students’ EAD scores in relation to the level ofacademic degree they were studying χ2 (2) � 6.99, p � 0.03, their academic major χ2 (2) � 6.93, p � 0.03, their desire to take upa particular specialty (t [61.01] � −2.53, p � 0.014), their knowledge of the university’s instructions on fraud and plagiarism (t[156.59] � −2.97, p � 0.003), having received previous punishment for fraud or plagiarism at university (t [13.66] � 4.97,p < 0.001), and their ages (r [300] � −0.146, p � 0.011). No signifcant diferences were found between EAD scores with respect toacademic year, university type, or current GPA.Conclusion: It is essential for universities to increase students’ awareness of what constitutes fraud and plagiarism and to cultivatea culture of AI. Prevention measures for academic dishonesty should also consider all the variables linked to dishonesty identifedin this study. Further research is, however, necessary to thoroughly comprehend the fundamental causes of academic breakdownto propose culturally suitable solutions

Keywords: academic dishonesty; higher education; integrity; Jordan; students; sustainable education