bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPLEMENTATION OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) PROGRAM AT PT ANUGERAH LANGKAT MAKMUR
Authors: Azura Chiquitita Qinthar , Setiawan Iwan
Published: February 2022

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a form of management defined by an ethical and transparent relationship between the company and all stakeholders (relevant parties) in the form of community development, environmental and cultural preservation for future generations, diversity and the promotion of reducing social problems. As a matter of fact, the community feel cared for through PT Anugerah Langkat Makmur's (PT ALAM) CSR activities, whereas the company only produces semi-finished products or has no direct relationship with end consumers. Qualitative designed research using case study methods aims to determine the types and implementation of CSR programs at PT ALAM. Primary data collection was collected with in-depth observation and interview techniques, while secondary data was collected through desk study from Public Relation of PT ALAM. The collected data was analyzed descriptionally. The results show that PT ALAM has implemented corporate social marketing, corporate philanthropy, and socially responsible business practice program. CSR is implemented every year and has been internalized in its business structure. PT ALAM has implemented CSR programs in the form of education, construction of facilities and infrastructure, as well as socio-cultural and religious.
EMPOWERMENT OF RURAL WOMEN FARMERS AND FOOD PRODUCTION IN IMBULPE DS DIVISION IN SRI LANKA: A HOUSEHOLD LEVEL ANALYSIS
Authors: Rathnachandra Dilini , Malkanthi P
Published: February 2022

Women empowerment and gender equity are two significant aspects of the sustainable development of a country. As Sri Lanka is on the way towards sustainable development, this study was conducted to identify the current situation of women farmers’ empowerment and food production in Imbulpe (Divisional Secretariat) DS division of the country. A sample of 300 women farmers was randomly selected for the study, from seven selected Grama Niladhari divisions (GN) of Imbulpe DS division. A field survey was carried out to data collection through a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire from April to July 2019. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and regression analysis were used as the data analysis methods. Results convey that most of the women farmers were middle aged, married and had two children within their family. Furthermore, most of the respondents had secondary level of education and their average family size was four, 1.25 acres was the average farm land size. They had about 16 years of experience in the field of agriculture sector. The average monthly income of the respondents was 25,000.00 LKR (Sri Lankan Rupees). Women empowerment was measured by using the models of Rahman and Naoroze (2007); Praveen and Leonhauser (2004) with necessary modifications according to the study area. Most of the women farmers were showed social empowerment aspect and political empowerment aspect reported as the least empowerment aspect according to the unit empowerment measures. Out of the socio-economic factors size of the farm land, number of agricultural training programs participated, monthly income of the family, respondents level of education and number of agricultural training programs attended were indicated significant and positive effect for the empowerment of women farmers. Accessibility of credit facilities and agricultural extension program participation showed that there was a considerable impact on food production rather than the cultivable land size and utilization of modern farming technologies for food production. Therefore, providing of timely important agricultural education and training programs, enhance awareness level of modern farming technology utilization, better micro finance programs and agricultural credit facilities will be able to upgrade the level of empowerment of women farmers in Imbulpe DS division furthermore.
THE SHAPE OF THE LEMURU FISH MARKET IN TERMS OF MARKET STRUCTURE ANALYSIS (CASE STUDY IN MUNCAR SUBDISTRICT, BANYUWANGI REGENCY, EAST JAVA)
Authors: Wicaksana Aditya Bagus , Setiawan Budi , Muhaimin Abdul Wahib
Published: February 2022

This study aims to analyze the structure of the Lemuru fish market that was formed in Muncar District, Banyuwangi Regency. There are two groups of respondents, fishermen (61 people) and marketing agencies (25 people). The sampling method used random sampling and slovin calculations to determine the number of fishermen respondents, the sample of marketing institutions used the snowball sampling method. To determine the market structure, the analysis used is the identification of the number of marketing institutions, market concentration using market share and CR4, product differentiation, and barriers to market entry. The results show that there are two marketing channels. Marketing channel one consists of 50 fishermen, five collectors, and seven retailers. Channel two consists of 11 fishermen and 13 retailers. From the analysis of market concentration using market share and CR4 at the fisherman and retailer level, a perfect competition market and a monopoly competition market at the collector level are formed. There is no product differentiation made by fishermen, collectors, and retailers. The barriers to entry and exit from the market faced by fishermen are natural and non-natural barriers, while collectors and retailers face non-natural barriers.
Biosorption of Methylene Blue by Activated Carbon from Sugarcane Waste (ACSW)
Authors:   Departement of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Gorontalo State University, Iyabu Hendri , Rewini Kunusa Wiwin ,   Departement of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Gorontalo State University, Isa Ishak ,   Departement of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Gorontalo State University, Prima Silaban Doly ,   Manado Industrial Research and Standardization Center
Published: February 2022

This study was aimed to produce and characterized activated carbon from sugarcane bagasse by physical and chemical activation. Physical activation was performed by carbonation process in temperatures 4500C and 6500C. While chemical activationusedH3PO4 10%, FeCl3 10% and KMnO4 10% as activator. The results showed that total yield (%) 49.8396 - 80.635; pH 4.0-7.9; ash content (g) 0.3338-0.8820; adsorption capacity of iod (%) 93.92-99.20. Morphological structure, functional group and Crystal structure was studied by using SEM analysis, FT-IR and XRD Difragtogram respectively.Adsorption capacity(%) of methylene blue 1.5 ppm and 2.5 ppm using UV-VIS Spectrophotometer produces; for H3PO4activatorat 450℃ = 99.24 and ND;at 600℃ = ND and 99.24. FeCl3 activator at 450℃ = 93.8 and 28.68; At 600℃ = ND and 99.24. KMnO4 activator at 450℃ = 61.24 and 65.12; At 600℃ = 39.4 and 53.79.
Partial Validation of Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography Method for Quantification of Isoniazid-Pyrazinamide in Human Samples
Authors:   Division of Pharmacology and Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran, Yunivita Vycke ,   Pharmacokinetic Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran, Nurul Meirina Triana ,   Pharmacokinetic Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran, Purnama Dewi Atu ,   Pharmacokinetic Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran, Eka Atmaja Harold ,   Pharmacokinetic Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran, Ruslami Rovina ,   Division of Pharmacology and Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran
Published: February 2022

Isoniazid (INH) and pyrazinamide (PZA) are first-line drugs in the treatment of meningitis of tuberculosis, in addition to rifampicin. The use of these drugs will determine the success of therapy to kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis in brain tissue that is difficult to penetrate by other drugs. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct research and monitor the use of this drug in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) patients with TBM. This study aimed to determine the method of analysis of INH and PZA using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography Ultra Violet (UPLC-UV). The samples were taken from TBM patients who taken INH-PZA and others besides TBM patients who did not take INH-PZA. The analytic method carried out includes a comparison of the results of the analysis method for measuring levels of standard INH-PZA and INH-PZA in plasma and CSF samples. Analysis of INH-PZA in plasma and CSF can be performed using UPLC with UV detector, at least 100 uL plasma or CSF samples volume, with reproducible and accurate results.
Definición de dosis de nitrógeno, fósforo y potasio para una máxima producción del maíz híbrido Advanta 9313 mediante el diseño central compuesto
Authors: Gavilánez-Luna Freddy Carlos , Gómez-Vargas María José
Published: February 2022

The absence of knowledge regarding the intervals of macro-nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) applied to corn is one of the flaws that do not allow us to take advantage of the potential of certified seeds, which is complicated even more so when the appropriate experimental designs are not used to establish the said intervals. Faced with this situation, this trial was developed with an incomplete second-order factorial arrangement called central compound design (DCC), in order to identify macro-nutrient intervals for greater corn production. A randomized complete block distribution was used in which 15 formulations (treatments) of N-P-K were tested with three repetitions of each one and the dry grain yield was evaluated as a response variable. The data were evaluated by means of analysis of variance to detect linear and quadratic effects, the respective response surfaces and contour graphs were obtained and a second order model was fitted. It was found that the highest corn yields, between 10 to 11 t/ha, were obtained when applying between 110 to 140 kg/ha of nitrogen, from 50 to 70 kg/ha of phosphorus and from 100 to 140 kg/ha of potassium; in addition to corroborating the goodness of the DCC when the limits of experimental operation of the study factors are known.
THE RIESZ-DUNFORD AND WEYL FUNCTIONAL CALCULI
Authors: Jefferies B.
Published: February 2022

" PDF file" DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.22342/jims.13.1.74.51-59
Determining standard functional structures for hospital management boards in central hospitals: Evidence of a developing economy
Authors: Funhiro Webster , Yalezo Bhasela , Mutambara Emmanuel
Published: February 2022

Zimbabwe’s health service delivery has attracted media attention for three successive decades due to failure by public hospitals to deliver effective service with the blame leveled against the hospital management boards (HMB). Responding to the criticism, the Ministry of Health introduced reforms on public hospital governance practices towards ensuring an effective health delivery system. This was done by improving the structural capacity of hospitals to deal with the increasing demand for health services (Moyo, 2016; Sikipa, Osifo-Dawodu, Kokwaro, & Rice, 2019). Thus, the study sought to determine the standard functional structures within HMBs of Zimbabwe’s 6 central hospitals. To achieve this, the study used a mixed research design in which 66 board members responded to the questionnaire while 9 purposively selected board members were interviewed, respectively. The study revealed that public hospitals require standard functional structures in order to be effective. These include a functional board that has sub-committees, a policy to evaluate the performance of CEOs, and the board itself. Frequency of board meetings, setting of agendas, succession planning, and alignment of goals with interests of various stakeholders. Implementing such functional structures enhances would standard functional structures for hospital management boards in central hospitals
Flower Clock
Authors: Christina Stadlbauer
Published: February 2022

The art work is inspired by the concept of the flower clock by Carl Linnaeus, renowned 18th century botanist from Sweden.
The installation “Who will pollinate the Flower Clock” that was exhibited in 2021 features a selection of endemic plants arranged in an outdoor installation. The piece is an invitation to decelerate, and tune into plant-time.
How do plants know time? How do they attune to rhythms of day and night? How slow do they open and close their petals? How long do they blossom so that insects can visit them?
Eurasian crane (Grus grus) as ecosystem engineer in grasslands ‒ conservation values, ecosystem services and disservices related to a large iconic bird species
Authors: Valkó Orsolya , Borza Sándor , Godó Laura , Végvári Zsolt , Deák Balázs
Published: February 2022

Large bird species, such as cranes are involved in human-wildlife
conflicts as they often forage in croplands. The Eurasian crane (Grus
grus) is a large iconic bird species, protected across Europe, which,
thanks to conservation programs and its ability to utilize croplands for
foraging, shows a strongly increasing population trend. This exaggerates
the already existing conflicts between crop farmers and cranes spilling
over to natural habitats, where foraging by large flocks can lead to
land degradation. To date, no studies have evaluated the effects of
biopedturbation by cranes in grasslands, despite these habitats provide
important feeding grounds for this large bird across its whole range.
Here we evaluated the effect of biopedturbation by foraging Eurasian
cranes on the vegetation of dry grasslands in Hungary. We used
indicators of vegetation naturalness, forage quality and floral resource
provision to evaluate the ecosystem state from multiple aspects. We
sampled 100 quadrats in disturbed patches and 100 in intact grasslands
in two seasons and two years (800 observations). We found that cranes
created distinct habitat patches with different species composition
compared to undisturbed areas. These early-successional patches that
increased the plant diversity and floral resources but decreased the
area of intact grasslands. Although crane-disturbed patches could
provide forage for livestock early in the season, the forage quality of
the vegetation became poor later in the year. Given the strong increase
of the global crane population, monitoring the landscape-level extent of
the disturbed areas, and developing a complex prevention and mitigation
strategy would be important.
Tracking research trends on the effects of vegetative strips within agricultural landscapes: A systematic map update
Authors: Bendall Eli , Westgate Martin , Haddaway Neal , Lindenmayer D
Published: February 2022

Agricultural intensification and land clearing for agriculture has
resulted in loss of biodiversity worldwide, land degradation and reduced
the quality of ecosystems services that assist agriculture. Vegetative
strips such as hedgerows and shelterbelts have the potential to provide
ecosystem service benefits that improve agricultural production and
environmental sustainability. A complex, interdisciplinary body of
evidence exists examining the various social, physical, chemical,
biological and ecological effects of vegetative strips. Here we provide
an update to a systematic map of evidence regarding the social and
environmental effects of vegetative strips within boreal and temperate
regions. We track temporal changes in research trends since the previous
map published on this topic in 2015. We followed the approach the
previous map, searching databases using an identical search string. We
used pre-defined eligibility criteria and layered article screening,
reporting the reasons for article exclusion. We extracted meta-data and
descriptively summarised the results to allow comparison to the previous
map, producing an interactive database that serves as a comprehensive
and up-to-date map of new evidence on top of the previous findings. We
found many trends that were consistent with the previous map, including
terminology trends, study regions, vegetative strip type, strip location
and measured outcomes. We also found that there were key changes in the
publication frequency of studies examining some biodiversity-related
ecosystem services. In addition, several knowledge gaps identified in
the previous map have been filled. A small number of countries in the
Global North continue to drive major changes in publication trends.
Benefits of reviewing pancreatic function in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Marpole Rachael , Wilson Andrew
Published: February 2022

Background: Cystic fibrosis is a common cause of pancreatic exocrine
insufficiency. Clinically pancreatic insufficiency is treated as a
permanent problem. However, new cystic fibrosis transmembrane
conductance regulator (CFTR) protein modulator therapies, like
ivacaftor, can change pancreatic function in children. Also, children
with residual CFTR function mutations may be pancreatic insufficient in
infancy and spontaneously become pancreatic sufficient. Aims: To
evaluate the benefit of reviewing pancreatic function, testing and
diagnosis, of a cohort and repeat testing to patients with the potential
to change function. Methods: all children with cystic fibrosis managed
at Perth Children’s Hospital at the end of 2019 were reviewed for
pancreatic function testing at diagnosis, genotype and current modulator
and pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy use. Children with the
potential to change pancreatic function were offered repeat testing.
Results: 204 children were included. 11 children were prescribed
ivacaftor and four of these became pancreatic sufficient. Five children
with a residual CFTR function mutation were pancreatic insufficient at
diagnosis. Four became pancreatic sufficient. Conclusion: there is
benefit in re-evaluating pancreatic function in children with cystic
fibrosis regularly, especially if on ivacaftor or pancreatic
insufficient with a residual CFTR function mutation.
Long-term cover crops in paddy field increase enzyme activity and carbon stock and enable the system fertilization
Authors: Carlos Filipe , Sousa Rogerio , Nunes Rafael , Carmona Felipe , Cereza Tiago , Weinert Cristiano , Bayer Cimelio , Camargo Flávio
Published: February 2022

The use of cover crops and the adoption of no-tillage are essential
conservation practices to increase carbon and nitrogen stocks and
increase soil microbial activity. However, in lowland areas cultivated
with irrigated rice, there is a large gap on the effects of no-tillage
with long-term cover crops on soil attributes, crop responses and the
effect of the system fertilization. The aim of this work was to evaluate
the long-term adoption of cover crops on soil microbial activity, soil
carbon stock and on the response of irrigated rice to system
fertilization. Treatments consisted of fallow-conventional, fallow-no
tillage, Annual Ryegrass, Oat, Ornithphus micranthus and Lotus
cornicultaus. In the sub-plots, system and conventional fertilization
per crop were compared. The experiment was conducted in southern Brazil
in an Entisol and started in the 1996/97 crop season. Cover crops
associated with the use of no-tillage increases basal respiration (+
31%) of the soil, β-glucosidase activity (+ 259%), and soil carbon and
nitrogen stocks. Urease activity increased by an average of 41% in
no-tillage under cover crops compared to the conventional system under
fallow, with the exception of ryegrass. System fertilization promoted
higher dry matter production (+ 130%) in grasses and a lower increase
(+ 23%) in winter legumes. The use of long-term cover crops promoted
higher rice productivity (+ 9%). In this way, the association of cover
crops and no-tillage increases carbon and nitrogen stocks, the
biological activity of the soil and makes possible the system
fertilization in lowlands, with positive effects on productivity.
Pre-pregnancy body mass index and adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in twin pregnancies: a population based retrospective cohort study
Authors: Bone Jeffrey , Joseph K S , Magee Laura , Wang Li Qing , Mayer Chantal , Lisonkova Sarka
Published: February 2022

Objectives To assess associations between pre-pregnancy BMI and severe
maternal morbidity (SMM), perinatal death and neonatal morbidity in twin
pregnancies. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting British
Columbia, Canada (2000-2017). Population All twin births at ≥20 weeks’
gestation. Methods We examined associations between pre-pregnancy BMI,
categorized as underweight (BMI <18.5m/kg2), normal BMI
(18.5m/kg2 BMI <25m/kg2), overweight (25m/kg2 BMI
<30m/kg2) and obese (BMI ≥30m/kg2) and adverse maternal and
perinatal outcomes, using targeted maximum-likelihood estimation,
adjusted for demographics and obstetric history. Outcomes SMM, perinatal
death, severe perinatal morbidity. Results Overall, 7770 (368
underweight, 1704 overweight and 1016 obese) women with twin pregnancy
were included. The rates of SMM (per 10,000 pregnancies) were: 271.1,
320.4, 270.0 and 225.9 in underweight, normal BMI, overweight and obese
women, respectively. Underweight women had higher rates of the composite
perinatal adverse outcome (adjusted rate ratio) [aRR] = 1.79, 95%CI
= 1.32- 2.43), largely driven by increased rates of severe respiratory
distress syndrome, and neonatal death (aRR = 2.81, 95%CI = 1.64-4.83).
There was no evidence of elevated risk for perinatal outcomes among
overweight and obese women. Conclusions In this population-based study
cohort study, we found no evidence of an increased risk of adverse
maternal and perinatal outcomes in overweight and obese women with
twins; however, infants of underweight women are at higher risk of
neonatal death and morbidity. These findings have implications for
pregnancy care of women with twin pregnancies, especially those who are
underweight. Funding SickKids Foundation (SKF-154852) Keywords:
pre-pregnancy obesity, maternal morbidity, perinatal death
Closure of Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage via Fistula at the Lateral Wall of the Sphenoid sinus using a Bone Pile
Authors: Takabayashi Kosuke , Gotoh Shuho , Yamasaki Maeho , Takizawa Katsumi
Published: February 2022

This report describes a case of spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leak
through a narrow canal-like fistula in the lateral wall of the sphenoid
sinus, which was managed through rigid reconstruction. Rigid
reconstruction of the skull base was performed by fitting a pile-shaped
bone into the fistula like the pile-driving technique.
Short duration Phantosmia changes in a COVID-19 patient in Bangladesh.
Authors: Amin Mohammad Ashraful , Nahin Sabrina , Fardous Jannatul , Rozars Md Faisal Kabir , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain
Published: February 2022

Phantosmia is the sensation of a fragrance intermittently or
continuously when no odorant trigger is available. Without any further
complaints, COVID-19 individuals may experience olfactory hallucination.
Phantosmia was unnoticed for a long time sinc
FREQUENCY OF TYPE 2 DIABETES IN YOUNG AGE GROUPS IN NORTHERN IRAQ
Authors:   Dept. Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Mosul, Iraq, Alhabbo Dhaher
Published: February 2022

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is frequently encountered among younger ages during last decades in both developed and developing countries largely contributed to the increasing degree and prevalence of obesity in such ages. Objective: To determine the frequency of T2D in patients younger than 40 years at Northern Iraq. Methods: Retrospectively a total of 9331 patients were studied consisted of 3471 males and 5860 females with diabetes mellitus (DM) at two settings in Northern Iraq in a period from January 2009 – January 2015. Demographic measurements and clinical evaluation were performed for all patients. The diagnosis of DM and its types was depended on the clinical background and confirmed by plasma glucose level measurement. The data from all patients were assessed and statistically analyzed. Results: T2D contributed by 8704 (93.3%) of total number of study sample. The mean values for body weight and body mass index for T2D were higher than those of T1D patients (78.0±14.2, and 30.93±5.42 vs. 56.1±22.6 and 23.72±6.89) respectively. The female to male ratio in T2D was approximately 1.73:1.00. Out of 8704 patients with T2D, almost 2134 (24.52%) patients were ≤ 39 years of age. Conclusion: Type 2 diabetes appears to be seen more frequently in younger age groups in Northern Iraqi society in parallel to increased rate of obesity particularly in adolescent and children. Keywords: Diabetes in young, obesity and diabetes, type 2 diabetes. Citation: Alhabbo DJ, Saeed ID, Khalaf YA. Frequency of type 2 diabetes in young age groups in Northern Iraq. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 66-73. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.10
COMBINING STRAIN ELASTOGRAPHY FINDINGS WITH ULTRASOUND BIRADS SYSTEM TO DISCRIMINATE BETWEEN BENIGN AND MALIGNANT SOLID BREAST MASSES
Authors:   Dept. Acting Chairman of the Iraqi Board of Radio-Diagnosis, Tawfeeq Raad , Khalel Enam ,   Dept.Head of radiology department in Oncology Teaching Hospital, Baghdad Medical City, Iraq, Al-Waely Noor ,   Dept. of Surgery, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Elastography has been attracting attention as a new non-invasive diagnostic tool with the potential to improve breast masses characterization. Objective: To assess the value of incorporating strain elastography into the ultrasound Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BIRADS) System to differentiate benign from malignant breast masses. Methods: Fifty-six women with 61 solid breast masses were enrolled in this study. Ultrasound was performed and the mass was given an US BIRADS category. Elastographic examination was performed and each lesion was assigned an Elasticity Score (ES) according to the Tsukuba scoring system. Strain Ratios (SRs) were calculated from a tumor adjusted Region of Interest (ROI) and a reference ROI in the fatty tissue. The US BIRADS was modified according to the elasticity criteria. Sensitivity, specificity, area under the curve (AUC) and cutoff values were calculated for US BIRADS, ES, SR and the modified BIRADS method using (ROC) curve analysis. Results: The final results were based on 61 masses, 25 benign and 36 malignant. The sensitivity and specificity were respectively (97% and 80%) for US BIRADS, (86.1% and 84%) for ES, (94.44% and 84%) for SR, and (97% and 84%) for the modified BIRADS. Conclusion: Combining elastography with conventional ultrasound yielded better diagnostic performance with improved specificity. Keywords: Elastography, breast masses, elasticity, strain ratio, modified BIRADS Citation: Tawfeeq RHA, Khalel EA, Al-Waely NKN. Combining strain elastography findings with ultrasound BIRADS system to discriminate between benign and malignant solid breast masses. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 74-83. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.11
EVALUATION OF THE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY EFFECT OF TELMISARTAN AS AN ADJUVANT THERAPY TO NSAID IN THE MANAGEMENT OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS; A CLINICAL PROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors:   Dept. of Clinical Pharmacy, Hmood Sarah , Mohammed Mohammed ,   Dept. of Clinical Pharmacy, Kamal Yassir ,   Dept. of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Mustansiriyah University,, Jasim Nizar ,   Dept. of Rheumatology, College of Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease caused by gradual loss of cartilage. Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, and act as a partial agonist on the nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ), that has been reported to exert anti-inflammatory effects. Objective: To evaluate the potential anti-inflammatory effect of telmisartan in patients with knee OA. Methods: Forty-two patients with painful knee OA were allocated into 2 groups, group (1): patients treated with naproxen tablets (500 mg/12 hr), telmisartan tablets (40 mg/day) and omeprazole (20 mg/day) for 3 months, while group (2): patients treated with naproxen tablets (500 mg/12 hr) and omeprazole (20 mg/day) for 3 months. The serum levels of IL-1β, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), TNF-α and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were measured before and after 3 months of treatment. Results: Telmisartan when used in combination with naproxen resulted in significant decrease in serum levels of IL-1β and hs-CRP, higher than that produced by naproxen when used alone. The mean TNF-α level and ESR was decreased non-significantly in both study groups. Conclusion: Administration of telmisartan as an adjuvant therapy to naproxen in knee OA patients produced a significant decrease in the serum levels of IL-1β and hs-CRP, though no clear effect on TNF-α and ESR was noticed after 3 months treatment. Accordingly, many promising preventive strategies emerged from the available results since telmisartan relatively reduce the inflammatory burden in OA patients. The dose and duration of telmisartan treatment in this study did not indicate a risk of hypotension. Keywords: Telmisartan, naproxen, osteoarthritis, cytokines Citation: Hmood SA, Mohammed MM, Kamal YM, Jasim NA. Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory effect of telmisartan as an adjuvant therapy to NSAID in the management of knee osteoarthritis; a clinical prospective study. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 100-110. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.14
PREVALENCE AND DIAGNOSIS OF GENITAL HERPES BY IMMUNOLOGICAL AND MOLECULAR STUDY
Authors:   Dept. of Microbiology, College of Medicnie, University of Baghdad, Ali Mariam , Hatha Huda , Almoayed Hala ,   College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Genital herpes simplex infection is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 or 2. This disease transmitted during close skin or mucus membranes contact with an infected person who is shedding the virus. Infections that are commonly spread by sex, especially vaginal intercourse, anal sex and oral sex. Objective: For detection of HSV by immunological and molecular methods. Methods: Two hundred (200) samples were collected from females attending the Gynecology Outpatient Department in the Al-Imamein Al-Kadhimein Medical City and Baghdad Teaching Hospital during the period from May 2014 to April 2015. Based on availability of full clinical information about each patient, high vaginal swabs were taken from females at different ages (15-54 years) representing patients group complaining of abnormal vaginal discharge with or without other symptoms. The Statistical Analysis System- SAS program was used to study the effect of difference factors in study parameters. Chi-square test was used to significant comparison between percentages in this study. Results: Each of the vaginal swabs collected were examined, was preserved at -20 °C for DNA extracts were analyzed. In RT-PCR, the rate of infection was in women with HSV, those with age group (25-34) years and (35-44) years were 50%. Conclusion: HSV infections were detected in genital tract infection in women; molecular methods are considered the gold standard for diagnosis, given the excellent sensitivities, specificities, rapid and accurate laboratory diagnosis of HSV.
GENOTYPING OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES IN IRAQI WOMEN WITH SPONTANEOUS ABORTION USING PULSE FIELD GEL ELECTROPHORESIS
Authors:   Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine,College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Qassim Khalid ,   Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine,College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq,   Dept. of Medical Microbiology,College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) is a Gram-positive, facultative intracellular bacterial pathogen that can cause a severe invasive disease (listeriosis) mainly in pregnant women. Based on genetic content, L. monocytogenes can be divided into 3 lineages I, II and III. Several molecular methods have been developed to assist in the characterization of L. monocytogenes, macrorestriction analysis by pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) is one of the most used methods for the genotyping of L. monocytogenes. Objective: To determine the predominant genotype of L. monocytogenes isolated from clinical cases in a group of aborted Iraqi women. Methods: A study was designed and included 15 clinical isolates of L. monocytogenes and one isolate from locally made cheese. The PFGE protocol was performed as described by Graves and Swaminathan. Briefly, bacterial suspensions adjusted to optical density of 1.3 at 610 nm were embedded in 1.2% Sea Kem Gold agarose plugs. The lysed, washed five times and a 2 mm thick piece was cut, equilibrated and digested with 200 μl of AscI enzyme master mix at 37 °C for 2 h. The macrorestriction fragments were separated by electrophoresis on a CHEF-DRIIBIO-RAD. Images were analyzed with the software Bio Numerics Gel Compar II version 6.6.11 (Applied Maths). Results: All L. monocytogenes isolates displayed AscI digestion profiles after incubation with the enzyme, about 6-12 majorfragments of 30 to 675 kb were obtained, sixteen isolates have been used in this study, however, 11 different AscI profiles were encountered, the distribution of the isolates according to the restriction profiles showed that two profiles were the most predominant A, A2 with a percentage of similarity of 100%. Conclusion: L. monocytogenes genotyping showed profiles that can be well used in tracing down infection source and outbreak of this bacterium. PFGE represents a great discrimination and reproducibility method for molecular sub-typing of L. monocytogenes and it is considered the gold standard. Keywords: Listeria monocytogenes, genotyping, placenta, aborted women, pulse field gel electrophoresis Citation: Qassim KW, AL Attraqchi AAF, Khatab YI. Genotyping of Listeria Monocytogenes in Iraqi women with spontaneous abortion using pulse field gel electrophoresis. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 8-13. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.3
PATTERN AND DETERMINANTS OF PSYCHOGERIATRIC DISORDERS AMONG THE ATTENDEES OF OLD AGE PSYCHIATRIC UNIT, BAGHDAD, IRAQ
Authors:   Section of Psychiatry, Dept. of Medicine, Al-Imamein Al-Kadhimein Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq, Al Abbudi Shalan , Ezzat Khalida ,   Ibn-Rushd Mental Hospital, Baghdad Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Mental disorders in old age are frequent. Objective: To determine the diagnostic pattern of mental disorders in elderly patients aged ≥ 60 years, attending the Old Age Psychiatry Unit, Ibn-Rushed Psychiatric Teaching Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq. Methods: A retrospective study to all attendees to the Old Age Psychiatry Unit between January 2009 and November 2011 was carried out. Data collected included diagnoses, comorbid disorders, treatment received, and socio demographic characteristics. Results: Analysis of 907 patients was done; the mean age 68 ± 6.3 years, 67.5% age range 60 – 69 years, 70% married, 50% without income (unemployed and housewives), 52% illiterate, and 98.5% live with their families. Depression was 46.9%, schizophrenia 23.2%, and 20.7% dementia. 48% of clients had comorbid illness. All patients had at least one pharmacological medication. Diagnoses high statistical significant association with gender (P=0.000), marital status (P=0.001), occupation (P=0.000), and education level (P=0.000). Conclusion: Mental disorders in old age are frequent. Many old age people were with limited access to mental health services. Mental health services must be designed to meet the needs of older people at all points of the mental health continuum. Keywords: Pattern, determinants, elderly, psychiatry, Iraq Citation: Al Abbudi SJR, Ezzat KI. Pattern and determinants of psychogeriatric disorders among the attendees of Old Age Psychiatric Unit, Baghdad, Iraq. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 22-29. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.5
FREQUENCY OF HEPATITIS C VIRUS GENOTYPES /SUBTYPES ASSOCIATION WITH RESPONSE TO THERAPY IN A SAMPLE OF HCV INFECTED IRAQI PATIENTS
Authors:   Dept. of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Abdulhassan Laith , Abdulamir Ahmed ,   Dept. of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Alkhalidi Nawal ,   Dept. of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Teaching Hospital, Baghdad Iraq, Always Safaa ,   Dept. of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Teaching Hospital, Baghdad Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an important human pathogen affecting 120-170 million individuals in the world. Identification of the causative virus genotype is of a significance to both clinical practices and predict the likelihood to therapy response. Objective: To determine the distribution of HCV genotypes/subtypes and its association with response to therapy among newly diagnosed HCV patients. Methods: Fifty patients with confirmed anti-HCV antibodies were included in this study for HCV genotyping in association with response to therapy. Blood samples from patients were subjected to RNA extraction and reverse transcription step; viral load of HCV was measured by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) at time zero, 3 months and 6 months of dual therapy. Response to therapy was measured as a decrease in viral load (2 log or more) and was described as: good (median log is zero after 6 months of therapy), moderate (median log declines more than 2 log but not zero after 6 months of therapy), poor (median log does not decline or decline less than 2 log after 6 months of therapy). Results: Two genotypes of HCV were detected, genotype 4 was the predominant (27/50, 54%) followed by genotype 1 (23/50, 46%). For HCV subtypes, subtype 1a was of highest percentage (28%) followed by 4e (24%), 1b (18%), 4a (14%), 4b (12%), and 4e (4%).The results revealed a significant association between HCV subtypes, but not genotypes, with response to therapy. HCV subtype 1a followed by 4a showed the highest rate of response 85.7% and 71.4%, respectively, while interestingly HCV subtype 4d showed no response and 1b showed poor response 11.11%. Conclusion: HCV subtypes of great importance in predicting success to HCV therapy and it is believed this would affect the newly emerging directly acting drugs as well. Keywords: HCV, genotypes, response to therapy Citation: Abdulhassan LJ, Abdulamir AS, Alkhalidi NM, Alwaysi SA. Frequency of hepatitis C virus genotypes /subtypes association with response to therapy in a sample of HCV infected Iraqi patients. Iraq. Iraqi JMS. 2018; Vol. 16(1): 30-40. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.1.6
AMYLOID PRECURSOR PROTEIN IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL CHANGES IN THE NEWBORN MICE FRONTAL AND PARIETAL CEREBRAL CORTICES AFFECTED BY PRENATAL EXPOSURE TO KETAMINE
Authors: Najm Mohanad , Mubarak Hayder ,   Dept. of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Mohammed Lamia ,   Dept. of Human Anatomy, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Ketamine is N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors blocking drug, it affects the cerebral cortex and play an essential role in learning and memory. Amyloid β (Aβ) is a cleavage product of a large, trans-membrane protein, termed amyloid precursor protein (APP); it may have a role in controlling synaptic activity. Objective: To investigate the immunohistochemical beta APP reaction in newborn mice frontal and parietal cerebral cortices after prenatal exposure to therapeutic doses of ketamine as an attempt for scientific judgments of making better understanding for effects of ketamine on developing brain, which may help to reduce adverse effects. Methods: Thirty pregnant mice were divided into two groups named experimental and control groups (15 mice for each groups). The experimental group animals were injected intraperitoneally with 50 mg/kg ketamine, the control group animals were injected with intraperitoneal distilled water. Paraffin sections of newborn mice frontal and parietal cortices were stained immunohistochmically with anti-APP antibodies. Results: The immunohistochemical labeling in the experimental group showed scattered clumps of brown staining distributed randomly in the cerebral cortex. The brown stained deposits vary also in shape and size, the larger and more intense staining was seen in the more superficial layers of the frontal cortex. The statistical analysis found non-significant differences in staining pattern between frontal and parietal cortices of control group, while significant differences were found between frontal and parietal cortices in experimental group. Conclusion: The immunohistochemical APP reactivity showed different intensities and different morphology in the frontal and parietal cortices in the all experimental group animals were that injected with ketamine in this study. These differences could be related to the requirement of this substance in repair and differentiation of the developing NMDA dependent interneuron impaired by prenatal ketamine exposure. Keywords: Frontal cortex, parietal cortex, amyloid precursor proteins, ketamine, prenatal, immnuohistochemistry Citation: Najm MS, Mubarak HJ, Mohammed LH. Amyloid precursor protein immunohistochemical changes in the newborn mice frontal and parietal cerebral cortices affected by prenatal exposure to ketamine. Iraqi JMS. 2018; 16(2): 191-200. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.2.11
THE EFFECT OF GINGER EXTRACTS ON BACTERIAL ISOLATES FROM PATIENTS WITH SUPPURATIVE OTITIS MEDIA AND EXTERNA: IN VITRO STUDY
Authors: Mohammed Maha , Al-Attraqchi Azhar ,   Dept. of Microbiology,College of Medicine,Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Ira, Al-Hasseni Jaafer ,   Dept. of Surgery, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Sahib Hayder ,   Dept.College of Pharmacy, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: February 2022

Background: Otitis media is a group of complex inflammatory disorders affecting the middle ear, which can be acute or chronic. Otitis externa is an inflammation on the skin of the external auditory canal usually associated with secondary bacterial and/or fungal infection of macerated skin and subcutaneous cellular tissue. Objective: To determine the effect of ginger extracts on bacterial isolates from patients suffering from otitis. Methods: Two hundred patients suffering from suppurative otitis media and externa, who were attending to ENT Department, Al-Imamein Al-Kadhimein Medical City. The powder of ginger rhizomes was soaked with the solvent left in a shaking water bath at 40 °C for 24 hours and then filtered using Whatman No.1 filter paper. Each extract was concentrated using a rotary evaporator with vacuum to get the final crude extract after the procedure of ginger extract was done. The activity of this extract was tested against bacterial isolates from patients with otitis. Results: The results of this study revealed that otitis externa was less common infection than the other types of otitis 29 (14.5%), while acute otitis media comprised 96 (48.0%), and chronic suppurative otitis media consisted of 75 (37.5%). The most common bacterial isolates that caused otitis were Pseudomonas spp. followed by Staphylococcus spp. The results showed that, there are different effects among (chloroform, methanol, and aqueous) extracts of ginger against pathogenic bacteria. Conclusion: Generally, ginger extracts had a good effect on isolated bacteria. Chloroform extract was the most effective one, followed by methanol extract, while aqueous extract showed the least activity in this regard. Keywords: Otitis externa, otitis media, ginger extraction Citation: Mohammed MM, Al-Attraqchi AAF, Al-Hasseni JMK, Sahib HB. The effect of ginger extracts on bacterial isolates from patients with suppurative otitis media and externa: in vitro study. Iraqi JMS. 2018; 16(2): 216-222. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.2.14
VAGINAL PROGESTERONE PESSARY FOR PRETERM LABOR PREVENTION IN WOMEN WITH A SHORT CERVIX EARLY IN THE SECOND TRIMESTER
Authors:   Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq, Khazaali Enas
Published: February 2022

Background: The prevention of preterm birth is a major health care priority. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of vaginal progesterone pessary in reducing the rate of preterm delivery and subsequent neonatal morbidity and mortality events in pregnant women with a short cervical length early in the 2nd trimester. Methods: Women with a singleton pregnancy without a history of preterm labor nor a history of second trimester miscarriage, underwent cervical length measurement at 14+0 to 15+6 weeks of gestation. Women found to have a cervical length less than 30 mm received vaginal progesterone pessary (400 mg per pessary) on daily basis, or no treatment. Primary outcome was preterm delivery rate before 37 weeks gestation. Secondary outcome includes neonatal morbidity and mortality events. Results: From the 7725 pregnant women screened between the period from April 2015 to January 2017, 613 were found to have a cervical length less than 30 mm and only 518 pregnant women met the inclusion criteria and agreed to participate in this study. However, only 492 were followed up till the time of delivery. From those 252 women administered 400 mg vaginal progesterone pessary once daily at night and the remaining 240 women did not receive any form of progesterone and served as control. There was a significant reduction in preterm delivery rate less than 37 weeks gestation among women receiving progesterone vaginal pessary compared to the control group 11 (4.4%) vs 38 (15.8%), p value < 0.001. Regarding neonatal outcome, there were significant reduction in the frequency of respiratory distress syndrome, low birth weight neonates and admissions to neonatal intensive care unit in women taking vaginal progesterone pessary compared to the control. While other neonatal morbidity and mortality events, incidence of neonatal congenital anomalies were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: Vaginal progesterone pessaries in women with a cervical length less than 30 mm early in the second trimester are found to be effective in reducing the rate of preterm birth and some of the prematurity related morbidity events. Keywords: preterm labor, vaginal progesterone pessaries, short cervix, premature delivery Citation: Khazaali EAA. Vaginal progesterone pessary for preterm labor prevention in women with a short cervix early in the second trimester. Iraqi JMS. 2018; 16(2): 133-143. doi: 10.22578/IJMS.16.2.4