bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Regenerative Medicine for Alveolar Cleft Reconstruction: A
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Motamedian Saeed Reza , Mohaghegh Sadra , Lakmazaheri Ehsan , Ahmadi Nima , Kouhestani Farnaz
Published: February 2022

Objective:

The objective of this study is to analyze the efficacy and complications of regenerative
medicine compared to autogenous bone graft for alveolar cleft reconstruction.

Method:

Electronic search was done through PubMed, Scopus, Embase and Cochrane databases for the
studies published until May 2021. No limitations were considered for the type of the included studies. The
risk of bias (ROB) of the studies was assessed using the Cochrane Collaborations and NIH quality assessment
tool. Meta-analyses were performed to assess the difference in the amount of bone formation
and rate of complications. Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation
(GRADE) was used for analyzing the level of the evidence.

Results:

Among a total of 42 included studies, 21 studies used growth factors, 16 studies delivered cells,
and five studies used biomaterials for bone regeneration of the alveolar cleft. Results showed no significant
difference in the amount of bone formation between bone morphogenic protein-2 and iliac graft
treated patients after six months (P = 0.44) and 12 months (P = 0.17) follow-up. Besides, higher swelling
(OR=9.46, P <0.01) and less infection (OR=0.19, P = 0.01) were observed in BMP treated patients. Using
stem cells can reduce the post-treatment pain (OR=0.04, P = 0.01), but it has no significant impact on
other complications (P > 0.05). Using tissue engineering methods reduced the operation time (SD=1.06,
P < 0.01). GRADE assessment showed that results regarding the amount of bone formation volume after
six and 12 months have low level of evidence.

Conclusion:

Tissue engineering methods can provide a comparable amount of bone formation to the autogenous
graft and reduce some of the complications, operation time and hospitalization duration.
Passive Solar-driven Interfacial Evaporation Nanosystems: Beyond Desalination
Towards Multiple Applications
Authors: Sheng Minhao , Bin Xiaoqing , Yang Yawei , Que Wenxiu
Published: February 2022

Recently, passive solar-driven interfacial evaporation has become one of the fastest-growing
technologies for solar energy utilization and desalination. Herein, we provide an overview of other
emerging and potential applications of evaporation nanosystems beyond desalination, i.e., electricity
generation, organics rejection, and sterilization. These extended functions can be a benefit for energy
and environmental issues.
Cytotoxic Effect of Podophyllotoxin-Loaded Magnetic Nanoparticles on
Proliferation of Colorectal (HT-29) and Breast (MCF-7) Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Bardania Hassan , Mansourian Mahboubeh , Peimanimotlagh Sayed Mehdi , Ghaedi Mehrorang , Talebianpoor Mohammad Sharif , Salehpour Zeinab , Ghalamfarsa Ghasem , Ardakani Maryam Tajali
Published: February 2022

Background:

Treatment used for cancer is generally associated with
serious side effects. New solutions for cancer therapy can overcome the shortcomings
and problems of conventional therapies by designing drug delivery nanosystems.

Methods:

In this study, magnetic Fe3O4@AU@albumin core-shell-shell (CSS)
nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized by various analyses, such as
transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and vibrating
sample magnetization (VSM). Podophyllotoxin (PPT) was then loaded on magnetic
nanoparticles as an anti-cancer drug and its effect on HT-29 and MCF-7 cell lines
was evaluated using an MTT assay.

Result:

The crystallinity of synthesized Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles was
confirmed by XRD analysis. Next, a layer of gold was coated with the Fe3O4
MNPs. The UV-Vis analysis of core-shell nanoparticles (iron oxide/gold)
confirmed the successful synthesis of these nanoparticles. The surface of the coreshell
nanoparticles was then coated with albumin to load the drug. TEM image
confirmed the existence of albumin nanoparticles loaded with core-shell magnetic
nanoparticles. VSM analysis revealed that iron oxide, Fe3O4@AU, and
Fe3O4@AU@albumin nanoparticles have the highest magnetic properties,
respectively. After the synthesis of PPT loaded onto MNP, the loading efficiency
was found to be 50%. The IC50 values of PPT alone and loaded onto nanoparticles
on MCF-7 cells after 24 hours were 3085.75 and 1868.09 nM, respectively, which
were significantly toxic (P-value ≤ 0.05) but not significant after 48 hours. The PPT
loaded on nanoparticles was found to be significantly more toxic to HT-29 cells
after 24 and 48 h than PPT alone (P-value ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion:

The anticancer drug of PPT-loaded MNPs has significant advantages
over PPT alone due to its improved properties with appropriate cytotoxic activity.
Thus, the PPT-loaded MNPs may be considered effective anti-cancer agents for
further research on drug development.
Perspectives in Quantum Coupling, Interferences, and Enhanced Properties
on Graphene Derivatives
Authors: Bracamonte Angel Guillermo , Miñambres Guadalupe , Kirschen O. In den
Published: February 2022

Background:

Highly conjugated carbon-based molecules and nanostructures could
show interesting quantum properties for different developments. Quantum emission, encryption,
and participation in signal transmissions could contribute to new quantum and nanotechnology.

Methods:

Quantum properties were analyzed from experimental data recorded with different optical
setup configurations and appropriate lasers. The data discussed were correlated and compared
with calculations.

Results:

In this review, we discuss the quantum properties of graphene and its derivatives produced
by their high electronic densities from highly organized carbon-based structures. We also
evaluate their coupling properties by combining other nanomaterial sources with atomic compositions
that generate different energy levels of quantized states. Quantum emissions, pseudoelectromagnetic
field interactions, quantum interferences in Fermi and Landau levels, conduction
bands, plasmonic interactions, opto-electronics, electron conductions, and transference implications
are also analyzed.

Conclusion:

The coupling of quantum properties formed from the sub-atomic level towards the
transference and transduction to larger scales beyond the nano- and microscale was reviewed. We
refer to the future perspectives of the phenomena discussed and their potential applications.
The Concept of Repurposing in COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Potey Lata , Dudhe Anshu Chaudhary , Tumme Dhanashri , Dudhea Rupesh , Sable Prafulla
Published: February 2022

The strategy of drug repurposing has been proved successful in response to the current coronavirus
pandemic, with remdesivir becoming the first drug of choice, an antiviral drug approved for the
treatment of COVID-19. In parallel to this, several drugs, such as antimalarial, corticosteroids, and antibiotics,
like azithromycin, are used to treat the severe condition of hospitalized COVID-19 patients, while
clinical testing of additional therapeutic drugs, including vaccines, is going on. It is reasonably expected
that this review article will deliver optimized and specific curative tools that will increase the attentiveness
of health systems to the probable outlook of epidemics in the future. This review focuses on the application
of repurposed drugs by studying their structure, pharmacokinetic study, different mechanisms of
action, and Covid-19 guidelines, which can potentially influence SARS-CoV-2. For most of the drugs,
direct clinical evidence regarding their effectiveness in the treatment of COVID-19 is missing. Future
clinical trial studies may conclude that one of these can be more potential to inhibit the progression of
COVID-19.
DETERMINANT OF THE HOUSEHOLD’S EXPENDITURE OF THE RECIPIENTS OF SOCIAL ASSIATANCE PROGRAM IN BANDAR LAMPUNG CITY
Authors: Aneftasari Ica Rizki , Arifin Bustanul , Effendi Muhammad Irfan
Published: February 2022

Poverty is a major concern and a serious problem faced by the entire world population, including Indonesia. One of the programs implemented by the Indonesian government is the Social Assistance Program (PKH). This program is in the form of providing social assistance and protection to the recipients of social assistance program. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence household expenditure on the recipients of social assistance program. This research was conducted in Rajabasa and Bumiwaras Villages, Rajabasa District, Bandar Lampung City. With respondents as many as 76 the recipients of social assistance program taken using the proportional random sampling method from the total population of the recipients of social assistance program Rajabasa and Bumiwaras Districts. To analyze the determinant is by using Ordinary Least Square method. The results showed that the variables of income, the recipients of social assistance program education and the number of family members influenced household’s expenditure in Bandar Lampung City.
GROWTH AND YIELD OF OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) AS INFLUENCED BY FERTILIZER APPLICATION UNDER DIFFERENT CROPPING SYSTEMS
Authors: Makinde Aderemi Isaiah , Oyekale Kehinde O , Daramola David S
Published: February 2022

Reduction in agricultural land with increasing population has led to a need to combined more than one crop to maximize limited land resources and thus require an improvement. A field experiment was conducted during the growing seasons of 2019 in two locations in Southwest Nigeria to assess the effect of cropping system and fertilizer application on the yield of okra intercropped with jatropha. The experiment was a split-plot arrangement in a Randomized Complete Block design, replicated three times. Fertilizer types were the main plots (NPK, Organic, Organic + NPK (50:50) and control while the cropping systems (sole okra, sole Jatropha and their intercrop) was sub-plot. Data were collected to determine okra growth includes: plant height, number of leaves/ plant, leaf area and the yield by number of days to 50 % flowering, number of fruits/ ha, fruit yield and fruiting duration. Jatropha growth parameters taken include: plant height (cm), number of leaves/plant. Results showed that okra can be intercropped with jatropha without any reduction it its performance. Growth of jatropha as well as okra yield was significantly better in fertilized plots than the unfertilized plots, with complementary use of organic and inorganic fertilizer producing the best results.
Biosynthesis of Cu2O/CuO-NP and AgNP Using Rhizopus oligosporus as Reductor Agent
Authors:   Chemistry Department, Mathematics and Science Faculty, Brawijaya University, Putri Woro Pamungkas Dwi , Amaliyah Suci ,   Chemistry Department, Mathematics and Science Faculty, Brawijaya University, Sabarudin Akhmad ,   Chemistry Department, Mathematics and Science Faculty, Brawijaya University, Safitri Anna ,   Chemistry Department, Mathematics and Science Faculty, Brawijaya University
Published: February 2022

Nanoparticles have been widely used in various fields which depends on its size and shape. Nanoparticles can be synthesized physically and chemically. However, these methods need large amount of energy, not environmental friendly and quite expensive, because requires several additional materials besides precursors. In this study, we performed the analysis of some parameters to determine the best conditions for biosynthesis using Rhizopus oligosporus to obtain the nanoparticles with specific size. This fungi was used because easy to find, cultivate, and handle. We found that grain size of Cu2O/CuO-NP and AgNP obtained are 23 nm, 55 nm respectively. In conclusion, this study confirms that some parameters investigated and Rhizopus oligosporus can be used to obtain the nanoparticles with specific size.
Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles through Gracilaria sp Seaweed Extract for Foam Height Stability in Liquid Hand Soap Formulations
Authors:   Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Syahjoko Saputra Iwan , Hermadi Saputro Anjar ,   Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Adliani Nur ,   Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Rahmi Dwinna ,   Center for Chemical and Packaging, Sudirman Sudirman ,   Center for Science and Technology of Advanced Materials-BATAN, Nopiandi Yogi ,   Department of Chemistry, Universitas Indonesia
Published: February 2022

Gold nanoparticles (G-NPs) were successfully synthesized using Gracilaria sp seaweed extract. Visually, color changes from purple-blue to ruby red and then finally to pink. UV-Vis spectrophotometer showed the optimum condition of G-NPs at 531 nm wavelength with an absorbance value of 1.1. The fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy shows the absorption peak of functional groups at the Gracilaria sp seaweed extract like hydroxyl group (-OH), aromatic (C=C), alkane (C-H), and amine (C-N) at the wavenumbers of 3356, 1613, 1456, and 1182 cm-1, respectively. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) shows the crystallinity peaks of G-NPs at 2θ: 38.3o, 44.1o, 64.8o, and 77.8o with miller indices of (111), (200), (220), and (311). The Particle size analyzer (PSA) shows the distribution and particle size average of G-NPs was 11.8 nm. Analysis of particle zeta charge (PZC) confirms the total charge of inter-particles was -24.7 mV. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images shows the G-NPs was spherical shape with a particle size was 20 nm. The hand soap@G-NPs have a pH of 6.0 and foam height stability of 4.1 cm for 10 min.
Exploring Patient Multimorbidity and Complexity Using Health Insurance Claims Data: A Cluster Analysis Approach
Authors: Nicolet Anna , Assouline Dan , Le Pogam Marie-Annick , Perraudin Clémence , Bagnoud Christophe , Wagner Joël , Marti Joachim , Peytremann-Bridevaux Isabelle
Published: February 2022

Background

Although the trend of progressing morbidity is widely recognized, there are numerous challenges when studying multimorbidity and patient complexity. For multimorbid or complex patients, prone to fragmented care and high health care use, novel estimation approaches need to be developed.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the patient multimorbidity and complexity of Swiss residents aged ≥50 years using clustering methodology in claims data.

Methods

We adopted a clustering methodology based on random forests and used 34 pharmacy-based cost groups as the only input feature for the procedure. To detect clusters, we applied hierarchical density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise. The reasonable hyperparameters were chosen based on various metrics embedded in the algorithms (out-of-bag misclassification error, normalized stress, and cluster persistence) and the clinical relevance of the obtained clusters.

Results

Based on cluster analysis output for 18,732 individuals, we identified an outlier group and 7 clusters: individuals without diseases, patients with only hypertension-related diseases, patients with only mental diseases, complex high-cost high-need patients, slightly complex patients with inexpensive low-severity pharmacy-based cost groups, patients with 1 costly disease, and older high-risk patients.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that cluster analysis based on pharmacy-based cost group information from claims-based data is feasible and highlights clinically relevant clusters. Such an approach allows expanding the understanding of multimorbidity beyond simple disease counts and can identify the population profiles with increased health care use and costs. This study may foster the development of integrated and coordinated care, which is high on the agenda in policy making, care planning, and delivery.
Creating Effective, Evidence-Based Video Communication of Public Health Science (COVCOM Study): Protocol for a Sequential Mixed Methods Effect Study
Authors: Røislien Jo , O'Hara Jane K , Smeets Ionica , Brønnick Kolbjørn , Berg Siv Hilde , Shortt Marie Therese , Lungu Daniel Adrian , Thune Henriette , Wiig Siri
Published: February 2022

Background

The nonlinear nature of contagious diseases and the potential for exponential growth can be difficult to grasp for the general public. This has strong implications for public health communication, which needs to be both easily accessible and efficient. A pandemic is an extreme situation, and the accompanying strict societal measures are generally easier to accept if one understands the underlying reasoning behind them. Bringing about informed attitude change and achieving compliance to strict restrictions requires explanations of scientific concepts and terminologies that laypersons can understand.

Objective

The aim of the project is to develop effective, evidence-based modes of video communication for translating complex, but important, health messages about pandemics to both the general population and decision makers. The study uses COVID-19 as a case to learn and prepare society for handling the ongoing and future pandemics, as well as to provide evidence-based tools for the science communication toolbox.

Methods

The project applies a mixed methods design, combining qualitative methods (eg, interviews, observational studies, literature reviews) and quantitative methods (eg, randomized controlled trials [RCTs]). The project brings together researchers from a wide range of academic fields, as well as communication industry professionals.

Results

This study has received funding from the Trond Mohn Foundation through the Research Council of Norway’s “COVID-19 Emergency Call for Proposals” March 2020. Recruitment and data collection for the exploratory first phase of the project ran from February 2021 to March 2021. Creative communication work started in May 2021, and the production of videos for use in the RCTs in the final phase of the project started in September 2021.

Conclusions

The COVCOM project will take on several grand challenges within the field of communicating science and provide evidence-based tools to the science communication toolbox. A long-term goal of the project is to contribute to the creation of a more resilient health care system by developing communication responses tailormade for different audiences, preparing society for any future pandemic.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/34275
ON ASYMTOTIC APPROXIMATIONS OF FIRST INTEGRALS FOR DIFFERENTIAL AND DIFFERENCE EQUATIONS
Authors: Horssen W.T. van
Published: February 2022

In this paper the concept of integrating factors for differential equations and the concept of invariance factors for difference equations to obtain first integrals or invariants will be presented. It will be shown that all integrating factors have to satisfya system of partial differential equations, and that all invariance factors have to satisfy a functional equation. In the period 1997-2001 a perturbation method based on integrating vectors was developed to approximate first integrals for systems of ordinary differential equations. This perturbation method will be reviewed shortly. Also in the paper the first results in the development of a perturbation method for difference equations based on invariance factors will be presented. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.22342/jims.13.1.70.1-16
Harlequin syndrome : Double face
Authors: Korbi Mouna , Boumaiza Sirine , Achour Asma , Belhadjali Hichem , Zili Jameleddine
Published: February 2022

Harlequin syndrome corresponds to unilateral dysfunction of sympathetic
system, characterized by flush and unilateral hyperhidrosis associated
with hypo or anhidrosis and paleness of the opposite side. It is,
usually, idiopathic. Rarely, it may be associated with compressive
organic processes, iatrogenic causes and general diseases. It is a real
therapeutic challenge.
POST-OPERATIVE HYPOCALCEMIA AMONG ONGOING PATIENTS AFTER TOTAL AND SUBTOTAL THYROIDECTOMY
Authors:   Dept. of biochemistry, Al-Kindy College of Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq, Naji Raghad
Published: February 2022

Background: Hypocalcemia is a major post-operative complication of total thyroidectomy, causing severe symptoms and increasing hospitalization time. The primary cause is secondary hypoparathyroidism following damage to or devascularization of one or more parathyroid gland during surgery. Objective: To identify the occurrence rate of post-operative hypocalcemia as an indicator of parathyroid gland function and its relation to the type of the surgical procedure of thyroidectomy whether it’s a subtotal or total thyroidectomy. Methods: One hundred and ninety patients with total and subtotal thyroidectomy were selected in this study (144 females and 46 males). The patients were divided into 2 groups, group 1 (95 patients) represent the patients with total thyroidectomy, and group 2 (95 patients) represent the patients with subtotal thyroidectomy. Serum calcium and parathyroid hormone were done pre-operatively and post-operatively for all patients with a follow-up for serum calcium for 6 months. Results: Of the total number serum calcium levels decreased from pre-operative levels in 156 patients (82%), but still within normal range (2.1-2.6 mmol/L). The overall incidence of transient hypocalcemia was 22 % (42 patients), 35 patients belong to group 1 and 7 patients to group 2, and that of permanent hypocalcemia (hypocalcemia persisted at the 6 months assessment) was 2.6 % (5 patients), 4 patients belong to group 1 and one patient to group 2. Most of the patients with hypocalcemia were asymptomatic 19.4% (n=37) and did not require calcium supplementation. Symptomatic hypocalcemia occurred in 5.2 % (n =10) patients. It was found that the overall incidence of hypocalcemia after thyroidectomy was 24.7 % (22% transient and 2.6% permanent). Conclusion: It could be concluded that, insuring the integrity of parathyroid glands is important to avoid post-thyroidectomy hypocalcemia. If incidental removal or devascularization of the parathyroid glands is noted, parathyroid auto-transplantation should be done. Keywords: Post-operative hypocalcemia, total thyroidectomy, subtotal thyroidectomy. Citation: Naji RE. Post-operative hypocalcemia among ongoing patients after total and subtotal thyroidectomy. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 92-99. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.13
MOTOR EVOKED POTENTIAL IN PATIENTS WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE: A TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION STUDY
Authors:   Dept. of Physiology and Medical Physics, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Ahmed Haneen , Al-Hashim Ali ,   Dept. of Physiology and Medical Physics, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative condition of the central nervous system, which is accompanied by the impairment of the cortico-subcortical excitation and inhibition systems. It is characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms, having both hypokinetic and hyperkinetic features. Objective: To investigate the integrity of the central motor pathways by studying the motor evoked potential (MEP) latencies, amplitudes and central conduction time (CMCT) of the median nerve in patients with PD as compared to healthy controls. Methods: Twenty-five patients with documented PD were studied; with a mean age of (63.16±5.49 years) as compared to 25 age and sex matched apparently healthy controls. All subjects were instructed about the examination and informed consent was provided. Transcranial magnetic stimulation TMS-MEP study of the right median nerve was done. Cortical and cervical latencies and amplitudes of the MEP study were determined. The responses were recorded with both relaxed and slightly contracted target muscle. CMCT calculation was done by subtraction of the latency of peripheral segment of the motor pathway (spinal motor root to muscle) from that of the entire motor pathway (motor cortex to muscle) or by calculation of the CMCT with the F-wave method. Results: The means of the cortical latencies of PD patients during relaxation and facilitation states were lower than controls; and the differences were significant for both (P=0.03 and 0.02; respectively). In both relaxed and facilitation states, the means of CMCT in PD patients were lower than in control and the difference was significant during contraction (P=0.02), and near statistical significance during relaxation (P=0.08). CMCT calculations by the estimation of F wave and distal motor latency (DML) were equivocal between relaxation and facilitation states. Nevertheless, the differences were not statistically significant (P=0.45; P=0.62; respectively). The means of the MEP amplitude of PD patients were lower than controls (4.21±1.94 versus 4.28± 1.84 mV; respectively). Nevertheless, the differences were not significant (P=0.89). Conclusion: Single-pulse TMS is a valuable study to investigate central motor dysfunction in PD. CMCT measurement of the median nerve or any nerve in the upper limb is a potential marker for the evaluation of the severity of PD; especially in the facilitated state. Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, TMS, MEP, CL, CMCT Citation: Ahmed HR, Al-Hashimi AF. Motor evoked potential in patients with Parkinson’s Disease: a transcranial magnetic stimulation study. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 14-21. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.4
INTERLEUKIN-4 SINGLE NUCLEOTIDE POLYMORPHISM C-590T POLYMORPHISMS IN RELATION TO ASTHMA
Authors:   Dept. Of Biology, College of Science, Tikrit University, Iraq, Gaidan Ayad , Abbas Ahmed ,   Dept. of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Hassan Mohammed ,   Dept. of Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Baghdad, Iraq, Hashim Hashim ,   Dept. of Medicine, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the promoter regions of genes encoding for some interleukins may associate with occurrence of asthma. Objective: To investigate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms of interleukin-4 (IL-4) (C-590T) and asthma. Methods: Forty-five patients with asthma and 40 apparently healthy subjects (represent the control group) were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were collected from both patients and controls. DNA was extracted from blood samples and gene fragments corresponding to IL-4 C-590T were amplified with specific primers using conventional PCR technique. Results: The heterozygote genotypes of IL-4 C-590T (CT) showed significant association with asthma (OR = 3.922, 95% CI= 1.153-13.339, P = 0.028). Conclusion: These results suggest the significance of IL-4 C-590T polymorphism as a risk factor for asthma. Keywords: Asthma, interleukin-4, polymorphism Citation: Gaidan, Abbas AA, Hassan MA, Hashim HM. Interleukin-4 single nucleotide polymorphism C-590T polymorphisms in relation to asthma. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 51-56. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.8
CORNEAL ENDOTHELIOPATHY IN PSEUDOEXFOLIATION SYNDROME
Authors:   Dept. of Surgery, College of Medicine, Kufa University, Najaf, Iraq, Kareem Alyaà , Neamah Giyath Aldeen ,   Dept. of Surgery, College of Medicine, Jaber Ibn Hayan University, Najaf, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is a common disorder with a wide range of ophthalmic presentation and risks. Corneal endotheliopathy is one of these presentations. Objective: To evaluate corneal endothelial cell morphology, density and function in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Methods: 120 eyes of sixty patients with clinically evident unilateral pseudoexfoliation were examined with non-contact specular microscopy (SP-3000P) Topcon Corporation. Central corneal thickness (T), cell density (CD), and percentage of cell hexagonality (HEX%) were measured and the values of the affected eyes were compared to those of the fellow normal eyes. Corneas with CD less than 2000/mm2 or HEX% <50% were considered as at-risk corneas for decompensation. The pseudoexfoliated eyes were subdivided into three groups according to the density of the pseudoexfoliated material (those with deposits on the lens capsule alone, on the pupil margin alone or on both) and the morphometric values of endothelial cells in each group were studied. Statistical analysis was performed using a 2-tailed Student t-test and the Chi square test, P value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Significant increase in central corneal thickness (500.25±28.95 micron vs 493.18±28.59 micron) and reduction in endothelial cell density (2307.5±272.3 vs 2480.2±289.9 cell/mm2) with a non- significant decrease in cell hexagonality (51.78±8.9 vs 53.48±6.2 %) was noticed in eyes affected by pseudoexfoliation syndrome as compared to the contralateral normal eyes. The changes were noticed more when the severity of the condition increases as reflected by the density of the pseudoexfoliated material. At risk corneas were found more frequently in eyes with pseudoexfoliation based on both endothelial cell density and cell hexagonality. Conclusion: Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is a cause of corneal endotheliopathy and a risk for corneal decompensation. More endothelial cell changes are found in eyes with advanced pseudoexfoliation. Extra care and more meticulous handling is required while operating upon eyes with pseudoexfoliation to reduce the risk for corneal decompensation. Keywords: Pseudoexfoliation, corneal endothelium, endotheliopathy, decompensation. Citation: Kareem AA, Neamah GAT. Corneal endotheliopathy in pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 57-65. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.9
CRIMEAN-CONGO HEMORRHAGIC FEVER IN THE MIDDLE EAST: HISTORY AND FACTS
Authors:   College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Al-Obaidi Asmaa B.
Published: February 2022

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is the highest widespread, tick-borne viral hemorrhagic fever that affect humans. This virus is endemic in many areas in the world, such as Africa, Asia, and Europe. Nowadays, the incidence of CCHF is increasing rapidly in several countries of the middle-east, with several outbreaks and sporadic cases in human of CCHF, that are reported in several countries in this region.
THE LEVEL OF 27-HYDROXYCHOLESTEROL AND OXYSTEROL 7 α-HYDROXYLASE (CYP7B1) IN TISSUES OF WOMEN WITH BREAST TUMORS
Authors: Mohammed Zahraa , AL-Saeed Hassan ,   Dept. of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Nile Anees ,   Dept. of Surgery, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background:In Iraq, breast cancer is the commonest type of malignancy in females. The disease is a genetically and clinically heterogeneous. The cholesterol metabolite 27-Hydroxycholesterol (27HC), a primary metabolite of cholesterol and an estrogen receptor (ER) and Liver X receptor (LXR) ligand, increases ER-positive breast cancer. 27-hydroxycholesterol (27HC) is metabolized by oxysterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7B1), CYP7B1 expression has been decreased in ER-positive tumors compared with normal breast tissues. Objective: To study and investigate the possible association of clinic-pathological parameters 27HC and CYP7B1 level in sera of women with benign and malignant breast tumors and in control group by ELISA technique and Investigate the possible relationships of 27HC with CYP7B1. Methods: This case control study was conducted on sixty patients with breast diseases were divided into three group, group I contained twenty patients with benign breast diseases, group II consisted of twenty premenopausal patients with breast cancer. Group III comprised twenty postmenopausal patients with breast cancer with the mean age and standard deviation (25.25±7.87, 38.65±6.28, 58.5±7.02 years). 27HC and CYP7B1 were measured in tissues by instrument ELISA technique. Results: The tissue homogenates of women with premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancer groups showed a significant elevation of 27HC in comparison with benign (p> 0.001), whereas there is no significant difference observed between both breast cancer groups (p= 0.542). The tissue homogenates of women with premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancer groups showed a significant decrease of CYP7B1 concentration in comparison with benign (p= 0.003) and (p= 0.001), whereas there is no significant difference observed between both breast cancer groups (p= 0.868). Conclusion: A higher incidence of 27HC and a lower incidence CYP7B1 were obtained in malignant than benign breast tumor tissues with positive estrogen receptors. These indicate that the levels of 27HC and CYP7B1 in breast tumor tissues may be used as new biochemical markers for breast tumor prognosis. Keywords: 27-Hydoxycholesterol, CYP7B1, breast cancer, estrogen receptor Citation: Mohammed ZK, AL-Saeed HH, Nile AK. The level of 27-hydroxycholesterol and oxysterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7B1) in tissues of women with breast tumors. Iraqi JMS. 2018; 16(2): 201-206. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.2.12
CLINICAL UTILITY OF URINARY ANTIGEN TEST AND MOLECULAR METHOD FOR DETECTION OF LEGIONELLA PNEUMOPHILA
Authors:   Dept. Al-Shahid Mohammad Baqir Al Hakeem Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq, Gauad Shaymaa , Abdulrahman Thanaa ,   Dept. of Microbiology, College of Medicine, AlNahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Muhamad Amar ,   Dept. Al-Imamein Al-Kadhimein Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq, Jawad Asmaa ,   Dept. Forensic DNA Research and Training Center, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Hassan2 Jabbar ,   Dept. of Microbiology, College of Medicine, AlNahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Legionella pneumophila (L. pneumophila) is gram-negative bacterium, which causes Legionnaires’ disease as well as Pontiac fever. Objective: To determine the frequency of Legionella pneumophila in pneumonic patients, to determine the clinical utility of diagnosing Legionella pneumonia by urinary antigen testing (LPUAT) in terms of sensitivity and specificity, to compares the results obtained from patients by urinary antigen test with q Real Time PCR (RT PCR) using serum samples and to determine the frequency of serogroup 1 and other serogroups of L. pneumophila. Methods: A total of 100 pneumonic patients (community acquired pneumonia) were enrolled in this study during a period between October 2016 to April 2017; 92 samples were collected from patients attended and admitted to Al-Imamein Al-Kadhimein Medical City and 8 samples from those in the (Center of Kidney Diseases and Transplantation) in the Medical City of Baghdad. All patients were under therapy with antibiotics. Serum and urine specimens were obtained from all patients; urine samples were processed for urinary antigen test (rapid test). Serum samples were collected and submitted to DNA extraction for detection of L. pneumophila mip gene by q RT PCR assay. Results: The percentage of L. pneumophila in two hospitals in Bagdad was 30%. Of these 26% was serogroup 1 detected by urinary antigen testing (UAT). In the other hand, 23% of samples were positive by q RT PCR based mip gene, of these 19 % were serogroup 1 and 4% were another serogroup. The sensitivity of UAT is high (P value < 0.001), which means statistically highly significance than q RT PCR. Conclusion: LPUAT is a rapid tool for early diagnosis of Legionella infection, which highlights the need of using this test in hospitals and health institutions and there is a high prevalence of L. pneumophila in Iraq that refer to the necessity of considering this microorganism point of view in future studies for detection and treatment in pneumonic patients. Keywords: L. pneumophila, mip gene, quantitative real time PCR, urinary antigen. Citation: Gauad SA, Abdulrahman TR, Muhamad AK, Jawad AA, Hassan JS. Clinical utility of urinary antigen test and molecular method for detection of Legionella pneumophila. Iraqi JMS. 2018; 16(2): 207-215. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.2.13
IDENTIFICATION OF COMMON AEROBIC BACTERIAL ISOLATES AMONG CONJUNCTIVITIS IN SULAYMANIYAH PROVINCE / IRAQ
Authors:   Dept. of Microbiology,College of Medicine, University of Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, Anoar khanda , Hassan Tara ,   Dept. of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Sulaymaniyah, Iraq,, Majid Bayan ,   Dept. of Microbiology,College of Medicine, University of Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Bacterial conjunctivitis is a microbial infection of the mucous membrane of the conjunctiva of eye that occurs both in adults and children. It is produced by an array of microorganisms that is frequently isolated from the conjunctiva of healthy subjects. The normal conjunctival flora represents both bacterial colonization and transient or recurring bacterial contamination. Coagulase-negative Staphylococci and Corynebacteria are frequently present on the healthy conjunctiva, but more traditionally pathogenic organisms, such as coagulase-positive Staphylococci, Streptococci, Haemophilus species, Moraxellae and Gram negative coliform rods occasionally isolated from normal, non-inflamed eyes. Objective: To determine etiological agents of aerobic bacterial conjunctivitis and the prevalence of each bacteria and its relation with the conjunctival discharge. Methods: This study conducted on 100 conjunctival samples from patients with conjunctivitis, and 50 samples from healthy normal persons. All samples were cultured on enriched media like blood agar and chocolate agar, anti-microbial susceptibility of all 100 samples from patients were analyzed. Results: The prevalence of aerobic bacterial conjunctivitis is 53 %with predominance age of 1-10 years. The most common bacterial isolates were Staphylococcus epidermidis followed by Streptococcus pneumonia. Most of the isolates were sensitive to cefotaxime and ofloxacillin, while different result was detected regarding resistance of each isolated bacteria. Conclusion: Aerobic bacterial isolates can be detected both in conjunctivitis and normal healthy individual with similarity regarding the type of bacteria that affect all age group. Keywords: Conjunctivitis, commensal flora, conjunctival discharge Citation: Anoar KA, HassanTM, Majid BT. Identification of common aerobic bacterial isolates among conjunctivitis in Sulaymaniyah Province / Iraq. Iraqi JMS. 2018; 16(2): 223-229. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.2.15
EFFECT OF STICK SWEET CHERRY EXTRACTS (PRUNUS (SP)) ON SOME BIOCHEMICAL MARKERS IN ALBINO MICE AND BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES IN DIFFERENT TYPES OF BACTERIA
Authors:   Biotechnology Division, Applied Science Department, University of Technology, Baghdad, Iraq, Saleem Maysoon
Published: February 2022

Background:The sweet cherry (Prunus avium L) has a wide variety of secondary metabolites, which has biochemical and biological activity and used as potential source of a drug. There is no data published on stick cherry extract effect on enzymes activities, kidney function test, inflammatory marker and minerals. As well as on antimicrobial activity of stick cherry extract for inhibition the growth of pathogenic bacteria of different types. Objective: To illustrate the effect of ethanolic stick sweet cherry extract on serum enzyme activities; lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), aspartate transaminase (AST), creatine kinase (CK) and the concentration of urea, uric acid, creatinine, C-reactive protein (CRP) also potassium, calcium in serum of albino mice as well as to investigate antimicrobial activity of the extract to inhibit the growth of different types of pathogenic bacteria. Methods: A total of 28 albino mice were classified into three groups, the first control group (G1) consist of 8 animals treated with 0.2 ml/day distilled water, second group (G2) comprised of 10 animals treated with 30 mg/Kg/day of stick cherry extract, third group (G3) formed of 10 animals treated with 100 mg/Kg/day of extract. Results: There was statistically significant reducing effect in serum enzyme activities of LDH, CK (P˂0.001) at 30 and 100 mg/Kg/day, and significant change in serum AST at low and high concentration. There is remarkable change in concentration of urea, uric acid, creatinine and increase in potassium and calcium (P˂0.001). The result of antimicrobial activity of stick sweet cherry extracts show inhibition the growth of pathogenic bacteria, different types which involves; (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherishia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus vulgarweris, Serratiam arcescens). This indicates that the chloroform extract was active against the most pathogenic bacteria at all the concentration used and was more than ethanol extracts. Conclusion: Orally administration of sweet stick cherries extracts to albino mice animals caused a potential difference in different biochemical parameters, enzyme activities, LDH, AST, CK, concentration of urea, uric acid and creatinine, C-reactive protein. Those are risk factors for different diseases, inflammatory, oxidative stress, heart disease. This could be minimized or prevented by polyphenols of cherries stick extract. Keywords: Prunus, Creatine kinase, Sweet cherry, CRP, Potassium, Escherichia coli Citation: Saleem MNMN. Effect of Stick Sweet Cherry Extracts (Prunus (SP)) on some biochemical markers in Albino Mice and Biological Activities in Different Types of Bacteria. Iraqi JMS. 2018; 16(2): 114-124. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.2.2
INTRAMEDULLARY NAILING VERSUS FIXED ANGLED BLADE PLATING FOR TREATMENT OF SUBTROCHANTERIC FEMORAL FRACTURE
Authors:   Dept.Section of Orthopedic, Dept. of Surgery, Al Al-Imamein Al-kadhimein Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq, Joda Ahmed , Aldookhi Alaa ,   Dept.Section of Orthopedic, Dept. of Surgery, Baghdad Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq, Abd Ail Ahmed ,   Dept. Section of Orthopedic, Dept. of Surgery, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq,
Published: February 2022

Background: The subtrochanteric fractures represent 7-44% of the fractures of proximal femur caused by low energy trauma in elderly patients or high energy trauma in younger age group. Different surgical options used to treat and fix this fractures that could be Intramedullary devices like intramedullary nail or extramedullary devices like fixed angle blade plate. Objective: Comparing the result of close reduction and internal fixation with intramedullary nail to the open reduction and internal fixation with 95-angled blade plate for treatment of subtrochanteric fractures. Methods: Prospective multicenter study was done in Al-Imamein Al-kadhimein Medical City and Al-Wasity Teaching Hospital for thirty patients with close and open (Gustilo type-1) subtrochanteric femoral fractures between December-2014 and September-2016. Eighteen patients (8 closed + 10 open fractures) treated with Intramedullary nail (IMN) were compared to twelve patients (9 closed + 3 open fractures) treated with open reduction and 95-angled blade plate fixation (BP). Results: There were significant statistical differences between the two groups. The IMN group show better outcome regarding the mean union rate time (IMN were 16 weeks while in the BP were 22 weeks). Mean hospitalization stay (IMN were 82 hours while in BP were 110 hours) and rate of infection (IMN 0% while in BP were 16%), but no statistical difference regarding the mean operation time (IMN were 1.59 hour while in BP were 1.43 hour) and functional outcome (HHS in IMN were 82 while in BP were 79). Conclusion: Closed reduction and internal fixation with Intramedullary Nail is preferable (for Close and Open Gustilo’s type-1 Subtrochanteric fractures) when compared to the open reduction and Internal Fixation with 95-angled Blade Plate. Keywords:Subtrochanteric femur fractures, closed reduction intramedullary nail fixation, open reduction internal fixation, fixed angle blade plate. Citation: Joda AI, Aldookhi AA, Abd Ali AS. Intramedullary nailing versus fixed angled blade plating for treatment of subtrochanteric femoral fracture. Iraqi JMS. 2018; 16(2): 125-132. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.2.3
VALUE OF MULTI-DETECTOR CT ANGIOGRAPHY IN CHRONIC ISCHEMIA OF LOWER LIMBS IN COMPARISON WITH THE DOPPLER ULTRASOUND
Authors:   Dept. of Surgery, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Kadhim Mohammed , Eisa Yaser ,   Dept. of Surgery, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Mohammed Sawsan ,   Dept. Al-Imamein Al-Kadhimein Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases in developed countries and is an emerging problem in developing countries. Duplex ultrasonography (DUS) has been used as the initial imaging modality in mild symptomatic PAD. Multi-slice helical CT angiography of arteries of the thigh represents a reliable means for the detection of relevant stenoses in patients with peripheral occlusive artery disease. Objective: To assess value of multi-detector computed tomography angiography (MDCTA) and to compare it with DUS to diagnose chronic ischemia of lower limbs. Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted on 30 patients with chronic lower limbs ischemia of both limbs during the period from September 2015 to September 2016 at the Department of Diagnostic Radiology of Al-Imamein Al-Kadhimein Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq. DUS was done for all the patients and then MDCTA was done. Results: Thirty patients (20 males and 10 females) with a mean age of 57.1 ± 8.5 (range: 33 –80) years were included in this study. MDCTA detects 69 lesions (41 occluded segments and 28 stenotic segments) and DUS detects 58 lesions (35 occluded segments and 43 stenotic segments). In MDCTA, 8 patients (26.7%) had lesion in only one arterial segment, 13 patients (43.3%) had two segment lesions, 3 patients (10%) had three segment lesions, 4 patients (13.3%) with four lesions and only two patients (6.7%) had lesions in five arterial segments. Regarding the findings of the DUS one segment lesion was detected in 13 patients (43.3%), two segment lesions in 11 (36.7%), three segment lesions in 2 (6.7%), four segment lesions in 3 (10.0%) and only five segment lesions in only one patient (3.3). Furthermore, the measure of agreement between both MDCTA and DUS in the number of lesions detected revealed a good agreement between both tests, (Kappa = 0.81) with a percent agreement of (86.6%). Conclusion: Multi-detector CT angiography is a fast, accurate, safe and a minimally-invasive imaging modality which may be used in cases of PAD for diagnosis, grading and for preoperative assessment of lower limb arterial disease. Keywords: Multi-detector CT Angiography, chronic ischemia of lower limbs, doppler ultrasound Citation: Kadhim MA, Eisa YA, Mohammed SJ. Value of multi-detector CT angiography in chronic ischemia of lower limbs in comparison with the doppler ultrasound. Iraqi JMS. 2018; 16(2): 144-151. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.2.5