Background: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a chronic inflammatory disease, mainly affects the joints, with approximately 30% of psoriasis patients eventually developing PsA. Characterized by both innate and adaptive immune responses, PsA poses significant challenges for effective treatment. Recent advances in drug delivery systems have sparked interest in developing novel formulations to improve therapeutic outcomes. The current research focuses on the development and evaluation of a nanosponge-loaded, cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor-based topical gel for the treatment of PsA. Methods: Nanosponges (NSs) were prepared by using beta-cyclodextrin as a polymer and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) as a crosslinker by melting, and gels were prepared by employing carbopol and badam gum as polymers. Results: Solubility studies confirmed that the prepared nanosponges were highly soluble. FT-IR studies confirmed the formation of hydrogen bonds between lumiracoxib and beta-cyclodextrin. SEM confirmed that the prepared formulations were roughly spherical and porous in nature. The average particle size was 190.5 ± 0.02 nm, with a zeta potential of −18.9 mv. XRD studies showed that the crystallinity of lumiracoxib decreased after encapsulation, which helped to increase its solubility. The optimized nanosponges (NS2) were incorporated in an optimized gel (FG10) to formulate a nanosponge-loaded topical gel. The optimized gel formulation exhibited a homogeneous consistency, with a pH of 6.8 and a viscosity of 1.15 PaS, indicating its suitability for topical application and stability. The in vitro diffusion studies for the topical gel showed drug release of 82.32% in 24 h. The optimized formulation demonstrated significant antipsoriatic activity, as confirmed through cytotoxicity studies conducted on HaCaT cells. Conclusions: On the basis of the findings, it can be concluded that the prepared nanosponge-loaded topical gel formulation presents a promising solution for the effective management of PsA, offering enhanced drug solubility, sustained release, and improved therapeutic potential.

Cancer incidence is increasing in Saudi Arabia, and in the Asir region, many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Schools are often considered advantageous settings for early prevention, but little is known about how cancer education is currently addressed or perceived within school settings. This exploratory study aimed to assess the status of cancer education in middle and high schools in the Asir region by examining science teachers’ practices, perceived barriers, and views on the feasibility of integrating cancer-related topics into routine instruction. An exploratory descriptive study was conducted with 22 science teachers from 5 urban public schools in the Asir region using structured interviews that included yes/no and open-ended questions. Descriptive statistics summarized closed-ended responses; open-ended data were analyzed through manual inductive content analysis. While most teachers reported including some cancer-related content in their teaching, coverage was inconsistent and typically breast cancer-focused. Only 2 teachers had received training on cancer education. Barriers included a lack of institutional support, time constraints, and beliefs that cancer education was outside their teaching responsibilities. Teachers generally viewed cancer education as important and feasible, with 20 of 22 expressing willingness to receive training and all participants supporting school–health partnerships such as guest speakers. Concerns about potential student anxiety were mixed: 13 of 22 teachers felt cancer education would not cause anxiety, whereas 9 of 22 were concerned that it might. Although based on a small, convenience-based sample drawn only from urban public schools, this study provides preliminary insight into how science teachers in 1 region of Saudi Arabia engage with cancer education. Findings highlight fragmented implementation, limited training, and considerable teacher interest in improving school-based programs. These results suggest the value of further research to better understand cancer education in school settings.

Medication errors pose a significant threat to patient safety globally, including in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to assess healthcare professionals' (HCPs) understanding, attitudes, and challenges regarding medication error reporting in Saudi hospitals. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered online questionnaire among HCPs (physicians, pharmacists, and nurses) from various hospitals across Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire explored their knowledge, attitudes, and experiences related to medication error reporting. A total of 170 hCPs participated in the study, with the majority being under 35 years old (67.06%), female (70.59%), and Saudi nationals (74.71%). A majority of participants (87.06%) had heard of the medication error report form, and 73.53% reported medication errors before. Participants aged less than 35 years had significantly lower knowledge scores compared to those aged 35-45 years (p = 0.021), and male participants had significantly higher knowledge scores compared to female participants (p = 0.005). Pharmacists had the highest knowledge scores among all health professions (p < 0.001), and participants working in government hospitals had significantly higher knowledge scores compared to those working in private hospitals (p = 0.034). In terms of attitude scores, male participants had significantly higher attitude scores compared to female participants (p = 0.046). This study highlights progress in medication error reporting among HCPs in Saudi Arabia but identifies gaps in knowledge, reporting, and systemic barriers. Addressing these challenges through education, process optimization, and a non-punitive reporting culture is key to improving safety. Future research should expand beyond hospitals and assess policy and training impacts over time.

Critically ill patients are at a higher risk of developing infections and related complications, which can lead to death. Each additional day of antipseudo