bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis in Al-Yarmook Teaching Hospital
Authors: Mizeel Adil Khudhair , Taher Nameer Mohammed
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a disease with multiple causes and has a low incidence rate. Seizure is one of the most common complications of CVT. The rate at which seizure occurs following CVT and the risk factors associated with that occurrence is a debated issue.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of seizure and its associated and risk factors for patients with CVT.

Subjects and Methods:

This was an observational study that included a total of 30 adult patients with CVT. Data, including age, sex, clinical manifestations such as fever, headache, vomiting, altered consciousness, and focal neurologic signs, such as sensory disturbances, were collected. Imaging findings that included hemorrhagic lesion, infarction, and thrombus site were also reported. Patients were followed up for 6 months from the initial diagnosis to recognize the development of seizures.

Results:

Within 6 months of follow-up, 13 (43.3%) patients developed generalized seizures, which was the most common type of CVT. The superior sagittal sinus (SSS) occlusion was recognized in 84.62% of patients with seizures and 48.06.5% in patients without seizures. Similarly, the right lateral sinus was occluded in 84.62% of patients with seizures as compared with 41.18% among those without seizures. Contraceptive use was reported in 61.54%of patients with seizures versus 17.65% in those without seizures with a significant difference.

Conclusion:

The involvement of SSS and lateral right sinus occlusion and use of contraceptives could be warning signs and a risk factor for the development of seizures in patients with CVT.
Assessment of Impact of Regional Analgesia on Labor and Neonates in Hilla City
Authors: Kadhim Safa Abd Al Hassan , Al Jeborry Milal Muhammed
Published: May 2024

Background:

Epidural is the most effective form of pain relief in labor with around 30% of laboring women in the UK and 60% in the USA receiving epidural analgesia.

Objectives:

To assess effect of regional analgesia on labor pain, duration, outcome of delivery and neonates.

Materials and Methods:

Case control study included 400 pregnant woman 200 of them delivered by painless labour and other 200 whose delivered without analgesia who attended to the babylon maternity and pediatric hospital, Al sadiq hospital and private hospitals in al hilla city which included private Teiba, Al Fayhaa hospitals from first of february 2022 to June 2022.

Results:

The duration of first stage of labor was significantly prolonged at control mothers 26%(52) in compare to 10%(20) of mothers with epidural anesthesia had prolonged labor. While second stage shown no significant association with epidural anesthesia (P = 0.47). Fetal heart rate abnormalities shown no significant association with epidural analgesia (P = 0.96). While back pain and headache was significantly higher in mothers with epidural analgesia (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

EA was not associated with a higher instrumental delivery rate and higher rate of c/s, EA not cause significant maternal or neonatal complications in primi- and multiparas. Importantly, EA associated with short first stage of labor and not higher rate effect on duration of second stage of labour.
Antimicrobial Activity of Some Nanoparticles Synthesized by Laser Ablation Technique against Some Bacteria Isolated from Oral Cavity
Authors: Mohammed Huda Abbas , Sahi Nebras Mohammed , Ahmed Rafea T. , Al-Rubaye Abeer fauzi
Published: May 2024

Background:

Tooth decay is an infectious disease that affects many people around the world and results in tooth pain due to dental cavities, which leads to tooth loss. Nanomaterials were used in the manufacture of fillings to reduce the activity of bacteria that cause tooth decay.

Objectives:

The current study aims to determine the efficiency of the antimicrobial activity of some nanoparticles (Go + Ag + poly, Zn + poly, Zn + poly, Ag + Zn + poly) manufactured by laser ablation technique to determine their ability to disrupt the biofilm formation produced by microorganisms and thus prevent tooth decay.

Materials and Methods:

Samples were collected from people who suffer from gingivitis and tooth decay and identification of bacteria by VITEK 2 Densi screening device. Nanoparticles were manufactured by laser ablation technique at the wavelength 1064 nm and then measuring the ability of bacterial isolates to form biofilm before and after the addition of nanoparticles using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) device at wavelength 490 nm.

Results:

The results showed the efficiency of the nanocomposite (Ag + poly) in inhibiting the growth of bacteria, followed by (Go + Ag + poly), (Zn + poly), while (Ag + Zn + poly) did not show any effect in inhibiting the growth of Sphingomonas paucimobilis, Streptococcus pneumonia, Serratia plymuthica, Staphylococcus hyicus on the culture media. It was noticed that the average value for formation biofilms that was represented through optical density at 490 nm were noticeably higher before adding nanomaterials than the mean value of biofilm formation amount after adding nanomaterials at P ≤ 0.05 which is considered as a differential sign.

Conclusion:

Laser ablation technology was used to manufacturing nanoparticles for using as an inhibitor of bacterial species which isolated from patients with dental caries, where it was found that most of the nanoparticles manufactured by this technique have a role for inhibiting of Sphingomonas paucimobilis
Serratia plymuthica, Staphylococcus hyicus that were isolated from people with dental caries. The nanoparticle (Ag + poly) showed a remarkable efficiency in inhibiting the growth of S. paucimobilis, S. pneumonia, and S. hyicus except S. plymuthica was not affected by this nanoparticle, while the nanoparticle (Ag + Zn + poly) did not show any effect in inhibiting the growth of S. paucimobilis, S. pneumonia, S. plymuthica, and S. hyicus on the culture media. Mostly, laser-ablated nanoparticles showed antimicrobial action in vitro. Accordingly, there is a need for additional research to describe in detail the mechanism of the toxicity of these nanoparticles.
Role of PAD Enzymes on Histone Citrullination in Cancer
Authors: Abdulrahman Noor Mohammed , Ali Shatha Hussein
Published: May 2024

Citrullination process is a natural pathway which happened at the time of cell dying, but during removal of these products, PAD enzymes may release causing stimuli to the immune system. This can start a consequence of processes and enhancement of cancer disease. In this review, we will focus on this marker and significance of its application for early detection of cancer and for follow-up disease, and the latest approved medications act on this line.
Sociodemographic Characteristics, Smoking, and Family History of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Northern Part of Iraq
Authors: Mohammed Blnd Ibrahim , Amin Bushra Karem
Published: May 2024

Background:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a long chronic condition of the gastrointestinal tract that includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The incidence rate of IBD increases globally. The exact pathogenesis of IBD is not known and has yet to be discovered.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted in Kurdistan region of Iraq (Erbil, Duhok, Sulaimaniyah, and Halabja) from July 2021 to July 2022. Sociodemographic variables (gender, age, education level, employment status, marital status, and residency) plus smoking habits and family history were collected by a questionnaire and reviewed in 83 patients with IBD and 170 matched controls, followed by statistical comparison in both studied groups. A combination of clinical, radiographic, histological, and endoscopic assessment from medical records was used for the diagnosis of IBD.

Results:

Of all IBD patients, 56.6% (47) were male and 43.4% (36) were female. Statistically no significant differences were identified, among patients and controls, for gender, age, marital status, level of education, and employment, whereas significant differences were identified for residency, smoking, and family history, and P value was 0.019, 0.016, and 0.001, respectively.

Conclusions:

Smoking and family history were determined as a risk factor for the development of IBD and the odds ratios (95% confidence interval) were 1.916 (1.126–3.260) and 3.260 (1.596–6.658), respectively.
Direct Lateral Approach for Total Hip Arthroplasty and its Complications in a Group of Patients
Authors: Ab-Al-Sada Mohammed Ab-Kudher , Khaledi Salah Mahdi , Al-Dahan Tarik Ziad Tarik
Published: May 2024

Background:

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) aims to treat pain and to restore the joint motion and stability. The surgical approaches to perform it are different, and all approaches have disadvantages or complications. The direct lateral approach (DLA) advantages include the decrement of the dislocation possibility.

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to determine the Harris hip score (HHS) and frequency of complications by gender among a group of patients who underwent THA through DLA, and the mean age of those patients with and without complications.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study conducted from June 2014 to January 2021 and included 80 patients in Saint Raphael Hospital in Baghdad undergoing primary THA by DLA. We excluded patients with revision THA. Age, gender, follow-up period, complications, and HHS were recorded and entered into computer software Microsoft Excel version 2019. Mean ± standard deviation was used to express continuous variables, whereas frequency and percentage were used to express categorical variables. t-test and Chi-square test were used as appropriate.

Results:

There were a total of 80 patients (29 males/51 females). Mean HHS was 96.7 ± 1.5; mean HHS and frequency of complications did not differ significantly by gender. The percent of dislocation, fracture, and infection among patients was 3.8%, 5%, and 3.8%, respectively. The mean age did not differ significantly among patients with and without complications.

Conclusions:

Gender had no role in the complications related to DLA, and age had no role in the complications.
The Relationship between Brain Computed Tomography Scan Findings and Prognosis in Patients with Missile-penetrating Head Injuries
Authors: Al-Anbari Husam Ghazi , Salih Al-Zaubai Nuha M. , Matloob Ahmed Hashim , Hadi Ali A.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Missile-penetrating head injury is a challenging problem for treating physicians. In Iraq and during 2003–2007, there was a civil war, which led to multiple causalities after suicide bombings or other clashes with coalition forces. A brain computed tomography (BCT) scan is considered as an initial diagnostic test to evaluate the next management plan. The authors tried to find the relationship between BCT scan findings and patients’ outcomes.

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the relationship between BCT scan findings of patients with missile-penetrating head injury and their prognosis.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cohort retrospective clinical study performed in Karbala, Iraq in the period from January 2005 till January 2006. Seventy patients with missile-penetrating head injuries were admitted and evaluated in Al-Hussain General Hospital (affiliated with the University of Al-Ameed). All patients had BCT scans and their outcome was evaluated using a modified Glasgow Outcome Scale.

Results:

In this study, the mortality rate is 15.71%. BCT scan findings are correlated with patients’ outcomes, which revealed the injury of one lobe carries the best outcome, whereas those with more than two lobes or posterior fossa injury carry the worse prognosis. Moreover, intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) showed the highest mortality rate, whereas tract hematoma alone seems to carry a good prognosis with the least mortality.

Conclusion:

BCT scan is essential in both diagnosis and prognosis of patients with missile-penetrating head injury. IVH and posterior fossa injury lead to the highest mortality rate.
Association between Placental Localization and Fetal Gender Detection Early in Pregnancy
Authors: Qasim Hadeel AbdulSattar , Hamid Ruaa Abduljabbar
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ultrasound (US) is a highly feasible way to assess fetal health as well as detect the gender to satisfy parents’ curiosity and it is important in several hereditary and chromosomal diseases.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to determine the gender of the fetus during the first trimester by detecting the chorionic villi (placental) location by US and finding its relation with fetal gender.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted on 67 women in April 2019–April 2020 on outpatient private clinic, ultrasound machine used DC N3 Pro, transabdominal approach by 5 MHz probe 3C5A measuring transverse and sagittal views of the gestational sac and localizing chorionic villi, another scan was done in the second trimester to identify the fetal gender by visualizing the genitalia.

Results:

Of 67 pregnant women examined, 40 had male fetuses and 27 had female fetuses. Approximately 50% of males had right-sided placenta. And 50% of them had left sided placenta, 11 out of 27 examined females fetus had right sided placenta, 16/27 female had left sided chorionic villi, Chi square analysis done, P-value was 0.456.

Conclusion:

The site of chorionic villi has an insignificant correlation with fetal gender difference.
Investigating the potential correlation between vitamin D with rheumatoid factor, anticyclic citrullinated peptides antibody, and interleukin-12 levels in rheumatoid arthritis women in Erbil, Iraq
Authors: Amjadipoor Nasrin Mostafa , Shnawa Bushra Hussain
Published: May 2024

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder involving the synovial joints of humans. Recent research has demonstrated that vitamin D (VD3) can influence a person’s susceptibility to RA, and a proinflammatory mediator affects the pathogenesis of RA.

Objectives:

This work aimed to investigate the correlation of VD3 with autoantibodies and interleukin-12 (IL-12) in RA patients.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty women were included in this case–control study, 60 confirmed RA and 20 healthy controls (HC) of the age range 29–71 years. The sera of study subjects were examined for anticyclic citrullinated peptides (anti-CCP), vitamin D3, and IL-12 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Rheumatoid factor (RF-IgG) was tested by latex agglutination technique.

Results:

The present findings revealed a significantly high concentration of anti-CCP, RF-IgG, and IL-12 in RA patients in comparison to HC. The anti-CCP expressed high sensitivity and specificity at 80% and 100% compared to RF-IgG at 76.6% and 90%, respectively. Both RA patients and HC groups showed lower levels of VD3 with a nonsignificant difference, 50% of RA patients and 55% of the HC had vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL). In RA patients, negative associations were observed between VD3 and anti-CCP and IL-12 levels. In contrast, a positive correlation was observed between anti-CCP and IL-12 in RA women.

Conclusion:

Anti-CCP had a better diagnostic value than RF. Low vitamin D is prevalent in RA patients and HC. Also, IL-12 may possess a vital role in RA’s pathophysiology and inflammatory activity, along with IL-12 inhibition may be beneficial in treating this disease.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ali Alaa Ibrahim , Nori Wassan
Published: May 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease that needs medical support and continuing patient education to avoid acute complications and decrease the long-term complications. The prevalence of diabetes is high in many areas, especially Asian. There are many risk factors for developing gestational diabetes, such as advanced gestational age, obesity, family history of DM, and previous delivery of large weight baby. There is higher perinatal morbidity and mortality in untreated cases, but this can be reduced with proper antepartum surveillance and adequate insulin treatment. This article consisted of an acceptable definition, pathogenesis, screening, risk factors, management of diabetes during pregnancy, maternal and fetal complication, and prevention.
The Antibacterial Effect of Green Tea on Enterococcus faecalis, Iraq
Authors: Kadhim Ehsan Mansoor , Amin Bushra Karem , Amin Bassam Karem
Published: May 2024

Background:

For centuries, people have employed plants as a source of therapeutic substances. Herbal remedies are used as analgesics, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory medicines in dentistry. The present study aimed to show the antimicrobial activity of green tea, against faecalis strains (ATCC 29212) in vitro, with various concentration of different extracted solvents.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, different solvents were used for the extraction active substances from dried green tea, followed by determining the antimicrobial actions of green tea against faecalis strains (ATCC 29212) in vitro. Green tea’s antibacterial properties were present in every component when tested on Enterococcus faecalis. The least amount of hexane extract, however, significantly reduced the growth of the aforementioned bacteria.

Conclusions:

According to the findings of this study, green tea extract is a suitable replacement for sodium hypochlorite and other endodontics irrigation solutions. To identify the ideal concentration, more research is necessary.
Assessment of Sympathetic Activity of Adrenal Medullae in Patients with Kidney Stone Treated by Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
Authors: Mohammed Rusul Abdul Kadhim , Hammoud Samir Sawadi , Almarzooq Wadhah A.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is the most widely used method for treating kidney and upper ureteric stones smaller than 2 cm due to its effectiveness, safety, non-invasive, and an outpatient procedure.

Objective:

The present study aims to assess the effect of ESWL on the sympathetic activity of adrenal medullae in patients with renal stone.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the ESWL Unit, AL-Hilla Teaching Hospital, Babil Province, Iraq on 50 patients from October 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022. Before and right after an ESWL session, patients underwent a history, physical examination and laboratory tests to measure their levels of serum catecholamines (CAs).

Results:

The results of this study revealed that there is a significant increase of serum epinephrine and norepinephrine levels (P-value <0.001) after ESWL session. There is a significant (P <0.1) increase in epinephrine and norepinephrine levels in patients treated for upper pole renal stones when compared with mid and lower pole renal stones after having an ESWL session. Changing the lithotripter’s parameters (energy, frequency, and number of shock waves) did not significantly (P > 0.05) correlate with the level of both norepinephrine and epinephrine in the serum after the ESWL session.

Conclusion:

The study found that patients with renal stones treated with ESWL had elevated serum CA levels after the session. The CA level correlates with the site of stone (the stone comes near to the adrenal medullae as there was an increase in the CA level), whereas it was unaffected by the lithotripter’s parameters.
Platelet-rich Fibrin Potential Role in Periodontal Regeneration
Authors: Al-Rihaymee Sarah , Mahmood Maha Sh
Published: May 2024

Periodontitis is a persistent bacterial-causing disease which damages the supporting periodontium of the teeth. The complexity of supporting tissue structure makes the regeneration a challenge for periodontists. Early investigations were focused on discovering therapeutic substitutes that are biocompatible, simple to prepare and economic. This might cause a local release of growth factors that accelerate the healing process of the soft and hard tissue. Recently, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has received a wide attention as a biocompatible regenerative material in both dental and medical fields. PRF is a natural fibrin-derived biomaterial, and it is easy to obtain. It can be gotten from individual blood without the use of any external anticoagulant. The principle of PRF technology use in the regeneration process is to use patients’ blood to extract all the growth factors which promote regeneration of tissue by accelerating the healing process. The main objective of this review is to concisely illustrate PRF and its contribution in periodontal regeneration.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders among Implant Patients in Relation to Bite Force
Authors: Ali Rihab Abdul Hussein , Diab Ban Sahib , Alaswad Fawaz Dawood
Published: May 2024

Background:

The installation of dental implants may impair the temporomandibular joint’s ability to operate by altering bite force.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to compare dental implant patients with partially and fully dentate patients in terms of temporomandibular joint issues related to maximal bite force measurement.

Materials and Methods:

Ninety patients with dental implants aged 50–60 years old were compared to 90 with partial and 90 with complete dentition patients who were age and gender matched. The incidence and severity of temporomandibular joint problems among patients were assessed using Helkimo anamnestic and clinical dysfunction indices. By using a biting force sensor, maximum occlusal bite force was measured in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions as reported at a US-based corporation. Statistical analysis of data was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software program, version 22.0 (SPSS, Chicago, Illinois).

Results:

According to the data, patients in the fully dentate group had larger percentages of Helkimo anamnestic symptom-free and clinically no dysfunction than those patients in implant and partially edentulous groups. Patients in the partially edentulous group were more likely to have Helkimo anamnestic mild and severe symptoms, as well as clinical mild, moderate, and severe dysfunction than patients in the other two groups. These data, however, did not show a statistically significant association. Data analysis revealed that maximum bite force measurements were significantly different between groups for all Helkimo anamnestic and clinical indices.

Conclusion:

Following oral implant therapy, the function of the temporomandibular joint was affected. In addition, bite force measures decreased as temporomandibular disorder symptoms became more severe.
Effect of SARS-CoV-2 Infection on HBV-Infected Patients
Authors: Al-Kaif Laith A. I. K. , Al-Saadi Mohammad Abd-Kadhum , Al-Charrakh Alaa H.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Hepatic manifestations of COVID-19 are prevalent in individuals infected with viral hepatitis type B (HBV).

Objectives:

The current study aims to determine the extent of the HBV reactivation depending on the immune impact on patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred forty-one hospitalized cases were divided into patients infected with HBV with/without SARS-CoV-2 diagnosed by automatic fluorescent immunoassay system COVID-19 Ab (IgM/IgG). Next, HBV reactivation was assessed using hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), HBcAb (IgM), HBeAg, and HBeAb ELISA test.

Results:

The results showed significant differences in HBV reactivation patients with SARS-CoV-2 at P < 0.05. Out of 141 HBV patients, 115 (1, 80, and 34) had positive COVID-19 in IgM, IgG, and IgM with IgG, respectively. The results of reactivation test showed 34.07% of patients have HBV reactivation.

Conclusions:

The HBV reactivation patients had been recorded in acute and chronic cases of HBV patients, where no severe cases were recorded compared with the advanced cases of the disease who received immunosuppressive therapy and biological treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the special care of persons exposed to infection with SARS-CoV-2 to patients infected with viral hepatitis, in particular, advanced cases of the disease and their stages of treatment as it leads to liver dysfunction and life-threatening complications.
Genetic Study of Gardnerella vaginalis Virulence Factors Isolated from Vaginal Discharge
Authors: Abdullah Sawsan Talal , Althahab Azhar Omran , Jabuk Sura Ihsan A.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Vaginitis is the most prevalent infectious condition affecting the female genital system. Prevalent vaginal infections, namely, bacterial vaginosis. Gardnerella vaginallis is one abacterial genus almost always associated with bacterial vaginosis.

Objective:

Isolation and identification of G. vaginalis. and Diagnosis some virulence such as Vaginolysin, Sialidase, Phospholipase.

Materials and Methods:

Collected 100 vaginal samples from women then cultures in Columbia blood agar to isolated G. vaginalis and genetic detection some virulence factors.

Results:

The findings revealed that 12 (12%) of the samples tested positive for G. vaginalis., including (7%, 26%, 13%, 8%, and 2% isolated from 20 to 50 years age, respectively. The results of PCR showed that out of 12 isolates only 4 (33%), 9 (75%) and, 6 (50%) of G. vaginalis isolates gave positive results to vly, sld and, pho gene respectively gave positive results from 12 G. vaginalis isolates.

Conclusions:

A healthy vaginal microbiota is considered to be significant for maintaining vaginal health and preventing infections. Bacterial vaginosis is the condition that occurs when the balance of the vaginal flora is dysregulated, and replaced by pathogenic bacteria in the vagina like G. vaginalis.
Breastfeeding Effect on Primary Teeth Emergence in Relation to Craniofacial Growth among Iraqi Infants
Authors: Salih Shaimaa Thabit , Diab Ban Sahib
Published: May 2024

Background:

Breastfeeding is more than just nutrition; it can be viewed as a natural orthotic device for the harmonious development of the face. Sucking has an impact on a child’s premaxillary region’s growth, and mandibular movements encourage mandibular growth. Along with the advantages for general health, breastfeeding also helps with the right development of teeth, face muscles, and occlusion. Hence symmetric, well-proportioned face and appropriate occlusion depend on balanced facial growth.

Objectives:

This study aims to evaluate the effect of breastfeeding on the timing of teething in relation to craniofacial development.

Materials and Methods:

This study is a cross sectional comparative study concerning craniofacial growth assessment, with prospective view concerning timing of eruption. Sample was composed of 100 breastfed infants compared with 100 infants depending on formula milk. Clinical examinations and follow-up for teeth emergence was done for whole sample.

Results:

Breastfeeding was found to be associated with early teeth emergence. Additionally, although, there were no significant differences between facial growth and feeding pattern there was a significant correlation between delay eruption time of primary dentition and facial growth parameters (mandible and maxilla depths) among bottle-feeding group.

Conclusion:

The current study confirms the effect of breastfeeding on the early teething emergence of primary dentition; however, there were no significant differences between type of feeding and facial growth parameters. While a significant relation between delay eruption time and facial growth parameters (mandible and maxilla depths) was found among bottle-feeding infants.
Raised Inflammatory Markers as Predictors of Response to Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Drugs (Etanercept and Infliximab) in a Sample of Iraqi Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Al-Shaibani Saif Abdulkareem Raoof , Jassim Nizar Abdullatif , Al-Bayati Anmar Abdulwahhab Khaleel
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic systemic inflammatory disorder mainly affecting the axial skeleton, although peripheral joints, entheses, and extra-articular tissues such as eyes, heart, and lungs may also be involved. Raised inflammatory markers in patients with AS at the start of anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapy are associated with more clinical response.

Objectives:

The aim of this article is to assess the role of raised inflammatory markers in predicting response to anti-TNF drugs in patients with AS.

Materials and Methods:

The prospective cohort study enrolled a total of 71 patients with AS. Nineteen patients were excluded from the study due to discontinuation of anti-TNF therapy and 52 patients continued in the study and were followed for 3 months.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 35.2±9.6 years, males constitute 84.6% of them and the median disease duration was 5 (3–10) years. Univariate analysis showed that the predictors of response to anti-TNF drugs were raised baseline C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index. Multivariate analysis showed that the only independent predictor for response to anti-TNF drugs was raised baseline CRP. The optimal cut point for CRP to predict response was >7.5 mg/L, whereas that for ESR was >32 mm/h.

Conclusion:

Raised inflammatory markers at baseline predict better response to anti-TNF drugs in AS patients. CRP had better prediction of response to anti-TNF drugs than ESR.
Clinical and Pathological Evaluation of Hemp Seeds Oil Effectiveness in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata
Authors: Farhood Iqbal Ghalib , Mamoori Afraa , Sahib Zena Hasan
Published: May 2024

Background:

Alopecia areata is an inflammatory, autoimmune, non-scarring, common patchy, hair-loss condition. Many treatment lines are used to treat alopecia areata, but all are palliative. Alternative medicine, like aromatherapy is expected to promote hair growth, but they are still lacking the scientific basis. Hemp oil is one of the aromatherapies that comprises polyunsaturated fat in approximately 76% involving “essential fatty acids” mainly omega-6 fatty acids” and lesser amount of “omega-3 fatty acids.”

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate hemp seed oil effect in the treatment of patients with alopecia areata.

Materials and Methods:

This was a clinical trial planned to evaluate the efficacy of hemp seed oil in 20 patients with localized alopecia areata for 2 months. Plant material is hemp oil extract, applied at night daily for 2 months. Regrowth of terminal hair was evaluated by clinically and by trichoscope examination to evaluate the pathologic changes response. The assessment was done at 0, 4, and 8 weeks of the treatment.

Results:

After 8 weeks of the treatment, the response was marked in five (25%) patients, moderate in eight (40%) patients, and mild in two (10%) patients. Five (25%) patients revealed no response. There was a significant increase in the response of patients who were under the marked improvement group between 4 and 8 weeks of treatment (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Hemp seed oil can be considered as a promising therapeutic agent for localized alopecia areata. Additional clinical trials are advised to adjust the dose and determine the period of time, which is required to obtain a better result.
The Implication of Left Ventricular Mechanical Dispersion as a Risk Predictor for Ventricular Arrhythmias in Patients with Mitral Valve Prolapse
Authors: Al-Shehristani Riyadh Mustafa , Abdulhamza Radhwan Readh , Al Hashimi Abbas Fadhil
Published: May 2024

Background:

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is considered a benign disorder, although it can be accompanied by ventricular arrhythmias (VA). Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) can be a promising tool for detecting early derangement.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to determine whether the left ventricular (LV) mechanical dispersion (MD) derived by STE can be considered a predictor for occurrence of VA in patients with MVP.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 63 patients with MVP (37 women and 29 men) presented with palpitation. The patients were divided into two groups: arrhythmic patients with VA (Group 1) and non-arrhythmic patients (Group 2). All of them underwent comprehensive clinical and electrocardiographic examination, cardiac rhythm assessment by Holter monitoring, and comprehensive echocardiographic evaluation including speckle tracking technique.

Results:

VA were detected in 32 of 63 patients. Ventricular bigeminy was the most common type of VA in arrhythmic patients. Unlike other echocardiographic parameters, the LV MD and the mitral annular disjunction (MAD) were found to be significantly higher in arrhythmic versus non-arrhythmic MVP patients (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the mean LV MD was higher in patients with frequent ventricular ectopics versus infrequent ones (P = 0.003). The cutoff value for LV MD was 35.1 ms or higher (sensitivity 87%, specificity 71%) and for MAD it was 2.7 mm or higher (sensitivity 82%, specificity 60%) in predicting VA in patients with MVP.

Conclusions:

LV MD in addition to MAD can be implemented in risk prediction for VA in patients with MVP presenting with palpitations.
Zinc and Copper in Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Patients on Different Iron Chelators in Basrah
Authors: Hasan Balqees Kadhim , Saud Wasan Hameed
Published: May 2024

Background:

Disturbances induced by chelating agents in the essential metal ions, including zinc and copper, can adversely impact the health of patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT).

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different iron chelators on the levels of zinc and copper among patients with TDT.

Materials and Methods:

This case-control study involved 94 patients with TDT and 59 healthy controls, their ages ranged from 5 to 37 years. Patients with TDT were subdivided into two groups: 51 patients were on deferasirox and 43 were on deferoxamine. Blood samples were collected from all participants for complete blood counts and serum ferritin, iron, zinc, and copper levels, which were determined by spectrophotometry.

Results:

Serum iron, ferritin, and zinc levels were significantly higher among patients with TDT, while the Hb level was significantly lower than that in the healthy population (P < 0.05). Serum copper levels did not differ significantly between the groups. A high frequency of zinc deficiency was reported among patients with TDT on deferasirox (56.9%) and control group (47.5%), compared to 16.3% for patients with TDT on deferoxamine (P < 0.001). For serum copper, most of them had normal levels (81.4%–90.2%). Patients on deferoxamine had significantly higher serum zinc and copper levels than those on deferasirox and control group, although the mean serum values were within the normal range of values for the three groups (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Low serum zinc was reported in a considerable percentage of patients with TDT receiving deferasirox compared to those receiving deferoxamine, while serum copper was within normal range in the majority of patients with TDT.
Antibiotic effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus isolated from clinical cases in babylon hospitals
Authors: Hamza Emad Noman Hassan , Fazaa Suaad Abid
Published: May 2024

Background:

Staphylococcus aureus, especially those that are multidrug-resistant, constitute a public health problem worldwide. It has been represented as the most common causative agent of skin infections, wound infections, and bacteremia.

Objective:

The purpose of the current study was to determine the incidence of S. aureus antibiotic resistance through bacteria collection from various clinical locations in a number of hospitals in the Babylon province.

Materials and Methods:

During the research, 429 clinical samples were collected from hospitals in the Babylon Health Directorate between July 2022 and February 2023. The samples were cultured in routine selective media, and the bacterial isolates were found according to different testing biochemically. The disc diffusion method was used in an antibacterial sensitivity test.

Results:

Of 429 different specimens, 284 (66.2%) showed bacterial growth. After using manual methods to identify species, 171 (60.21%) of 284 isolates are Staphylococcus spp. From 171 Staph species, 61 (35.67%) were S. aureus. These isolates award a maximum rate of sensitivity to nitrofurantoin (90%) and chloramphenicol (95%) and showed a maximum ratio of resistance to penicillin (91%) and cefoxitin (85%).

Conclusion:

High prevalence of S. aureus 61 (35.67%) from 171 Staphylococcus species. Antibiotics indicated a high ratio of sensitivity to nitrofurantoin (90%) and chloramphenicol (95%) and indicated a high ratio of resistance to penicillin (91%) and cefoxitin (85%). The purpose of the current study was to determine the incidence S. aureus antibiotic resistance through bacteria collection from various clinical locations in a number of hospitals in the Babylon province.
Cytokines Profile in Patients with Hydatidosis in Babylon Province, Iraq
Authors: Al-Mosawi Ahmed Mohammed A. , Al-Joborae Fadhil Farhood M. , Al-Joborae Huda Fadhil , Al-Saadi Mohammed Abd Kadhum , Al-Charrakh Alaa H.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Hydatidosis is caused by infection with the larval stage of the Cestode Echinococcus granulosus.

Objective:

In vitro quantitative evaluation of interleukin 6 (IL-6), INF-gamma (INF-γ), and CD4 and CD8 molecules during hydatidosis infection and control group.

Materials and Methods:

In vitro quantitative determination of IL-6, INF-γ, and CD4 and CD8 molecules in serum of hydatidosis-infected patients using serological test Sandwich-ELISA.

Results:

The result showed a significant difference in serum IL-6 in patients with hydatidosis than in the control group (38.753 ± 18.307 pg/mL) and 11.752 ± 3.328, respectively; the differences were highly significant (P < 0.0001). The mean of serum CD4 molecules concentration was 5.475 ± 2.335 (ng/mL) and 3.154 ± 1.027 (ng/mL) for controls groups with P value ≤ 0.0001, while serum concentration of soluble CD8 was 2.977 ± 1.321 (ng/mL) and 1.152 ± 0.699 (ng/mL) for control group with (P value ≤ 0.0001). The ratio of CD4/CD8 was 1.841 in hydatidosis infection patients compared with control group (2.737).

Conclusion:

Immunological parameters included in the present study (IL-6, IFN-γ, CD4 and CD8) showed high levels among patients with hydatidosis infection compared to healthy control.
Comparative In Vitro Study Regarding the Effect of 2% and 6% Titanium Tetrafluoride on Demineralized Human Enamel
Authors: Al-Hassnawi Amjed Kamel , Radhi Nada Jafer
Published: May 2024

Background:

Dental caries is the most common disease of the childhood and adulthood where the mineral contents of the enamel of the teeth begin to lose due to acids attacks by demineralization process. It can be prevented by application of fluoride that increased the mineral content of the enamel and made it highly resistant to acid demineralization.

Objectives:

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of titanium tetrafluoride (TiF4) in different concentrations and frequencies on surface microstructure and chemical structure of artificially demineralized enamel.

Materials and Methods:

The sample consisted of 35 premolar teeth: seven teeth randomly selected remained sound (five for energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis and two for scan electronic microscopy, whereas the remaining 28 teeth were divided into four treatment groups (n = 7): (1) control negative (deionized water), (2) control positive (acidulated phosphate fluoride gel), (3) 6% TiF4 solution once daily, (4) 2% TiF4 solution three times daily. Chemical structure and surface microstructure analyses were made for sound, after demineralization then after treatments.

Results:

The fluoride content was greater in 6% TiF4, whereas the calcium content was greater in control positive followed by 6% TiF4 then 2% TiF4 groups. Surface microstructure revealed uniform, smooth, glaze-like surface with no irregularities in 6% TiF4 while localized areas of glaze-like depositions were noted in 2% TiF4.

Conclusions:

The TiF4 showed better minerals contents and uniform surface in its higher concentration and the frequency of applications was not important as concentration.
Short-Term Comparison between Resection and Preservation of the Infrapatellar Pad of Fat in Patients Undergoing Primary Total Knee Replacement
Authors: Fayyadh Wisam Khalid , Hwaizi Las , Musa Laween Omer
Published: May 2024

Background:

Resection of infrapatellar pad of fat (IPPF) is an ordinary step performed in primary total knee joint replacement (TKR) in approximately 88% to get a clearer field and eases patellar retraction to a side away during the surgical procedure.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the preservation versus resection of the IPPF regarding postoperative pain and range of movements in patients undergoing primary TKR.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective, case series study conducted in Erbil Teaching Hospital from March 1, 2018 till December 31, 2018. A total of 28 patients who underwent primary TKR were randomly allocated into two equal groups. In the first group the pad of fat was resected, whereas in the other group the pad of fat was preserved. The follow-up period of this study was 9 months. Patients of both groups were seen and followed up in the ward in the first 5 days of admission and seen again at the outpatient clinic at weeks 2, 6, 12, 24, and 36. The anterior knee joint pain and range of movement were recorded and observed by visual analog scale (VAS) score, knee score, and knee functional score.

Results:

Twenty-eight patients who underwent primary TKR were included in this study. Among them, 18 patients were women (64.28%) and 10 were men (35.72%). The mean age of the patients was 63.42 years ± 4.31 years, ranging from 56 to 71 years. Improved postoperative VAS score of the IPPF resection group (6.28 ± 0.91) and preserved group (5.92 ± 0.82) were observed (P < 0.045) at the 6 months of follow-up. Improvement in the degree of flexion observed in the IPPF preservation group over the resected one (P < 0.0060), with either no statistical differences were noticed of the final Knee Society Scores or the functional scores of the two groups, (62.78 ± 4.91) and (50.07 ± 5.80) of the IPPF resected group, (64.57 ± 5.54) and (52.14 ± 5.08) of the IPPF preservation group with both scores (P = 0.059 and 0.850), respectively.

Conclusions:

Preservation over resection of the IPPF during primary TKR decreases the postoperative anterior knee joint pain. Consequently, no significant changes were observed regarding the knee joint functionality.
The antimicrobial activity of nanochitosan and nano-CaCO3 against some bacteria
Authors: Saleh Rasha Hadi , Khalaf Aysar Ashour
Published: May 2024

Background:

The growing threat of infections and drug-resistant microorganisms is a crucial challenge; hence, finding novel antimicrobial medicines is urgently needed. Nanotechnology has garnered interest in many disciplines, especially for therapeutic applications. Chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs) and calcium carbonate nanoparticle (CaCO3-NP) are recognized as antimicrobial agents because of their antimicrobial features and minimal risk of toxicity to humans.

Objectives:

The goal of this investigation was to detect the antibacterial efficacy of CS-NPs and CaCO3-NP at various concentrations toward different bacteria.

Materials and Methods:

This investigation collected a total of 128 different clinical specimens. Every bacterial isolate was examined using the cultural, microscopic, and biochemical procedures. Antibiotic sensitivity was performed by using disk diffusion methods. The antibacterial activity of different CS-NP and CaCO3-NP concentrations (20, 40, 60, and 80 mg/L) was estimated on medical bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli, and by well diffusion method.

Results:

A total of 80 bacterial isolates were collected from various clinical samples. The majority of isolates were P. aeruginosa, E. coli, S. aureus, S. pyogenes, and K. pneumoniae. Most isolates exhibited resistance against tested antibiotics, in which P. aeruginosa exhibited relatively elevated resistance to mainly used antibiotics. Nanoparticle compounds exhibited antimicrobial activity at different concentrations against all bacteria, and it is affected in different degrees. As nanoparticle concentrations increase, antibacterial activity increase as well.

Conclusions:

CS-NPs and CaCO3-NP showed promising antimicrobial activity against medically relevant microorganisms. It is indicated as an option the manufacturing of antimicrobial medications utilized in medicine.
The Association between Beta-blocker Use and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Risk, Severity, and Exacerbation
Authors: Saber Hemin Khalid
Published: May 2024

Background:

There is controversy about the role of beta-blockers in the number of acute exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Objectives:

The study aimed to find the role of beta-blockers using in the exacerbation number in patients with COPD in the presence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Materials and Methods:

In this comparative study, patients who attended the internal medicine department of two general hospitals in Erbil city and diagnosed with COPD with any CVD were included between April and November 2018.

Results:

The beta-blocker-using COPD patients were older compared to nonusing beta-blocker COPD patients (64.67 vs. 59.95 years, respectively) and had more comorbidities of myocardial infarction (28.1%) and heart failure (28.1%) (P < 0.001). The study showed no significant difference in acute exacerbations (0.50 vs. 0.47; P= 0.821), forced expiratory volume 1 level (62.19 vs. 60.44; P= 0.544), between the user and nonuser beta-blockers, respectively. There was no significant difference in the number of acute exacerbations between COPD patients with CVD and without comorbidity in beta-blocker users; 0.45 versus 0.50; P= 0.820. While in nonusers of beta-blockers, the COPD patients with CVD had a significantly higher number of exacerbations (1.29) compared to those COPD patients without comorbidity (0.45; P= 0.020). The COPD beta-blocker using patients with CVD had significantly less number of exacerbation compared to those COPD nonusing beta-blocker patients with CVD.

Conclusions:

The present study showed that COPD patients who used beta-blockers have a substantially lower number of acute exacerbations in the last year compared to those COPD patients who did not use beta-blockers.