The bone morphogenic protein (BMP) antagonist Gremlin-1 is a biologically significant regulator known for its crucial role in tissue differentiation and embryonic development. Nevertheless, it has been reported that Gremlin-1 can exhibit its function through BMP dependent and independent pathways. Gremlin-1 has also been reported to be involved in organ fibrosis, which has been correlated to the development of other diseases, such as renal inflammation and diabetic nephropathy. Based on growing evidence, Gremlin-1 has recently been implicated in the initiation and progression of different types of cancers. Further, it contributes to the stemness state of cancer cells. Herein, we explore the recent findings on the role of Gremlin-1 in various cancer types, including breast, cervical, colorectal, and gastric cancers, as well as glioblastomas. Additionally, we highlighted the impact of Gremlin-1 on cellular processes and signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis. Therefore, it was suggested that Gremlin-1 might be a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in cancers.

Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the current level of knowledge, as well as the attitudes and practices (KAP) of the adult population in Sharjah, UAE with regards to H. pylori induced gastric ulcers and gastric cancers. Methods: A cross sectional study of 500 participants was conducted in public venues in Sharjah, UAE through the distribution of a self-administered questionnaire English and Arabic speaking residents aged 18 years and above of both sexes were invited to participate in this study via convenience sampling. Responses were collected and analyzed using SPSS. Results: General knowledge about H. pylori was poor, only 24.6% had heard of H. pylori. 61% of the participants did not know the link between H. pylori and gastric cancer. Only 3% of the participants associated psychological stress with gastric ulcer development. Females had higher knowledge scores (p = 0.008*). Participants with a medical background typically had higher knowledge scores than their peers in other fields of work (p < 0.0001*). Participants’ attitudes towards H. pylori were suboptimal with only 33% willing to seek medical help If they get symptoms. Majority of participants with an approximate of 84% showed an overall average to excellent practices towards H. pylori. Conclusion: General awareness about H. pylori induced gastric ulcers and cancers is poor. The results of this study can be a starting point to devise new education programs and campaigns that raise awareness of this health issue which could be easily avoided with prevention, early detection, and intervention.

Objectives: Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) is a rapidly progressive disease that may cause permanent hearing loss. Standard primary treatments include oral corticosteroids (OCs) or intratympanic corticosteroids (ITCs). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of OCs versus ITCs as primary treatments for ISSNHL. Design: This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched Medline, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus, identifying 11 RCTs comprising 833 patients. Results: Both OCs and ITCs significantly improved hearing, with average pure tone audiometry (PTA) gains ranging from 12 to 40 dB. No significant between-intervention difference was observed in post-treatment PTA. Generally, combination therapy yielded the greatest improvements (>40 dB and >60% recovery). OCs caused systemic adverse effects, whereas ITCs produced mostly mild local effects. Conclusions: Both treatment routes effectively improved hearing in patients with ISSNHL, with neither demonstrating clear superiority in overall efficacy. However, combination therapy may be associated with better hearing outcomes.

Mucoceles are locally invasive but benign expansive cystic lesions that can arise within paranasal sinuses. Isolated sphenoid sinus Mucoceles (SSM) are quite rare, comprising less than 1% of all paranasal sinus mucoceles. Due to the critical position and proximity of the sphenoid sinus to vital structures, SSMs can cause a multitude of symptoms and complications. We report a case of a 53-year-old man who presented with sudden vision loss and was found to have an isolated SSM. Following surgical drainage and management of the SSM, the patient had full recovery of visual acuity upon discharge.