bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study to Assess the Nutritional Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices about Prevention of Osteoporosis among Menopausal Women
Authors: Shet Shweta , Salimath Gavishiddhayya , Shindhe Shukrani
Published: February 2024

Context:

Osteoporosis (fragile bones) affects millions of people and is referred to as “the health hazard” due to the serious illnesses, fatalities, adverse impacts on quality of life, and significant expenditures to both the patient and society. Only cardiovascular disorders are ranked higher by the World Health Organization as a worldwide health-care issue than osteoporosis.

Aims:

To assess menopausal women’s dietary knowledge, attitudes, and practices for osteoporosis prevention.

Setting and Design:

This study was conducted at Vantamuri Primary Health Center (PHC) and Rukmini Nagar Urban Health Center (UHC) in Belagavi with a cross-sectional design.

Methodology:

One hundred postmenopausal women who visited the Vantamuri PHC and Rukmini Nagar UHC in Belagavi participated in this study. A cross-sectional design with purposive sampling and a questionnaire were used to acquire the data. SPSS software was used to analyze the data. To ascertain the relationship between knowledge, attitude, and a few broad facts, a descriptive analysis was performed.

Results:

It indicates that 45% of the participants had moderate knowledge about osteoporosis. 86% of women showed a positive attitude toward osteoporosis. The study revealed that 85% of the participants had limited physical activity. The majority of participants were not consumed calcium and Vitamin D supplements.

Conclusion:

The majority of postmenopausal women who attended the respective PHC Belagavi, according to the study, have a moderate understanding of osteoporosis. Both the illness and the best ways to avoid osteoporosis are unknown to many women.
Associations between Maternal and Infantile Factors and Neonatal Growth Metrics: A Large-scale, Retrospective Study
Authors: Yazdiani Ali , Vakilzadeh Mohammad Moein , Kashani Sara Naghizadeh , Dehnzvi Parvin , Boskabadi Hassan , Maamouri Gholamali , Faramarzi Raheleh
Published: February 2024

Objective:

The primary aim of this large-scale, retrospective study was to identify the maternal and infantile factors influencing neonatal growth metrics within the 1st month of life.

Materials and Methods:

Data were collated from the Sina Electronic Health System between 2015 and 2018. The study employed the World Health Organization (WHO) Z-score system for categorizing neonatal growth and utilized logistic regression models to explore associations between maternal and infant characteristics and neonatal growth metrics.

Results:

The study comprised 137,548 neonates, with a slight male predominance (51%). An overwhelming 98% of infants were breastfed. The logistic regression analysis revealed male gender as a significant predictor for higher weight-for-age Z-score (WAZ) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.268, P < 0.001), height-for-age Z-score (HAZ) (OR = 1.316, P < 0.001), and weight-for-height Z-score (WHZ) scores (OR = 1.137, P = 0.015). In addition, vaginal delivery was strongly associated with higher WAZ (OR = 1.176, P < 0.001), HAZ (OR = 2.109, P < 0.001), and WHZ scores (OR = 1.176, P = 0.003). The influence of breastfeeding was particularly noteworthy, with significant associations with higher WAZ (OR = 1.934, P < 0.001), HAZ (OR = 5.435, P < 0.001), and WHZ scores (OR = 1.558, P = 0.008).

Conclusions:

Our robust analysis substantiates the significant influence of male gender, vaginal delivery, and breastfeeding on neonatal growth metrics, as evidenced by elevated WAZ, HAZ, and WHZ scores. The findings provide a compelling argument for the promotion of natural birthing methods and breastfeeding, and they highlight the role of gender in neonatal growth outcomes during the initial month of life.
An Unusual Cause of Factor 7 Deficiency Causing Subgaleal Bleed in a Preterm Extremely Low Birth Weight Neonate
Authors: Raghavendra Prashanth Ranya , Nathan D. Muthu Vijaya , Subhadarsini Santoshi , Haribalakrishna Anitha
Published: February 2024

Intracranial hemorrhage is a known complication in preterm neonates. We present an unusual etiology of subgaleal bleeding in a preterm extremely low birth weight neonate secondary to factor 7 deficiency. The neonate had unexplained subgaleal bleeding at the time of birth and developed a life-threatening pulmonary bleed subsequently and expired before the administration of definitive therapy.
Feeds Alone versus Intravenous Fluids and Feeds for Treatment of Mild Hypernatremia in Otherwise Healthy Neonates – An Open-labeled Randomized Controlled Noninferiority Trial
Authors: Krishnan Shrinidhi , Srinivasan Ramesh , Kannappan Suvetha , Neelakandan K.
Published: February 2024

Background:

The treatment of hypernatremia in newborns is usually done by giving intravenous (IV) fluids.

Methodology:

This study aimed to determine whether treating neonates with hypernatremia using oral feeds was not inferior by a margin of 10% to treatment with IV fluids and feeds in achieving a safe decline in serum sodium. A decrease in serum sodium ≤0.5 mEq/L/h over 24 h of treatment was considered a safe decline. Neonates with serum sodium 150–155 mEq/L were randomized to receive oral feeds ad libitum (Group A) or 5% dextrose +0.45% normal saline (D5 ½ NS) and oral feeds (group B).

Results:

There were 43 neonates in Group A and 42 neonates in Group B. It was found that a safe decline in serum sodium was seen in 60.5% of Group A neonates and 47.6% of Group B neonates (P = 0.246). There was no significant difference in the duration of treatment or duration of hospital stay. Group B babies had more weight gain compared to Group A. No complications were observed in the groups.

Conclusion:

Treating mildly hypernatremic neonates with serum sodium 150–155 mEq/L using oral feeds alone may not be inferior to IV fluids with oral feeds in achieving a safe decline in serum sodium.
An Insight on Prehospital Delay and Ambulance Usage in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Bana Raghunatha Reddy , Nayak Manabendra , Chaitanya Kranthi
Published: February 2024

In acute myocardial infarction (AMI), the time elapsed between the onset of symptoms and definitive care plays a crucial role in the mortality and morbidity of a victim. The symptom onset to reperfusion therapy comprises prehospital time and hospital time. There are evidence-based international guidelines to minimize hospital time. However, reducing prehospital time and developing strategies to prevent the delay necessitate a thorough understanding of the underlying causes. In the event of an emergency, calling an ambulance can assist cut down on transportation delays, which cuts down on prehospital time and its effects. Aim of this review is to analyze the relationship between ambulance service utilization and prehospital delay in AMI patients. Studies that reported prehospital delay and ambulance usage were collected with a search on the expression “prehospital delay in AMI” in combination with “ambulance usage.” These studies were from around 15 countries on six continents and were analyzed and summarized in this review. The extracted data expressed under six headings: emergency medical service (EMS) as a first medical contact, ambulance disuse, shorter prehospital delay, no or poor EMS system, predictors of ambulance use in AMI, and efforts to reduce prehospital delay. In AMI, using an ambulance is advisable for early diagnosis and swift transport to a definitive care center. However, ambulance services are frequently unavailable or underutilized.
Ayurvedic management of fibromyalgia (Mansagata Vata) using BOHECO peace capsules: A case series
Authors: Jain Harshad Kantilal
Published: February 2024

One of the most prevalent disorders that affect the muscles is fibromyalgia, which is characterized by pain, stiffness, and soreness in the muscles, tendons, and joints. According to Ayurveda, fibromyalgia can be correlated with Mansagata Vata. Vijaya or bhanga (Cannabis sativa) is famously known for its shulahara property, that is, to reduce pain in patients. Cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol have immense potential to reduce pain and inflammation in patients. Vijaya due to its ushna virya has Vatahara properties. The present study is a case series consisting of five patients aged between 30 and 60 years. Patient were having satisfactory results after consuming Peace caps in the cases of fibromyalgia and the dose of their existing medicines were either reduced or stopped completely after treatment of 1 month. The dose of peace caps was 1 cap once a day for a week followed by 1 cap twice a day after meals. Initially, patients were consuming gabapentin and amitriptyline for a period of 2 weeks.
Management of juvenile diabetes through an add-on Ayurveda drugs: A case study
Authors: Limbachiya Vedanshi , Bhinde Sagar M
Published: February 2024

The prevalence of juvenile diabetes is increasing day-by-day. As of date, no other than insulin therapy is available as a treatment for type 1 diabetes. In Ayurveda, type 1 diabetes can be correlated with Madhumeha, which is Vataja Prameha, and with Sahaja Prameha, which occurs due to Beej Dosha. These conditions are supposed to be Asadhya (incurable) and Anushangi (long-standing); the holistic approach with Rasayana Aushadha and Pathya Aahar Vihar may help improve the quality of life. In the study presented here, a case of a patient with juvenile diabetes, treated with Ayurveda medicine. An 8-year-old male child with type 1 diabetes was treated with Guduchyadi Vati (GV) for 3 months along with his ongoing standard of care (insulin injections). After the treatment duration of 3 months, fasting blood sugar was reduced from 230 to 110 mg/dL. Postprandial blood glucose was reduced from 312 to 125 mg/dL. Glycosylated hemoglobin and mean blood glucose levels were reduced from 14.7 and 375 to 6.8 and 148 mg/dL, respectively; C-peptide increased from 0.58 to 1.56 ng/mL. His treating physician had reduced the dose of insulin from 12 to 6 units/day. Classical symptoms of Madhumeha like Daurbalya (weakness), Kshudhavruddhi (polyphagia), Pipasatipravrutti (polydipsia), and Prabhuta Avila Mutrata (polyuria) were also relieved markedly after treatment. The addition of Ayurvedic treatment (GV) to the patient’s standard treatment protocol helped maintain his blood sugar at a normal level with reduced insulin injections and relieved major symptomatology of type 1 diabetes.
Efficacy of herbal formulation in stage 5-chronic kidney disease: A case study
Authors: Upadhyay Shushma , Pandey Yogesh K
Published: February 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a group of pathophysiological processes associated with poor kidney function and progressive decline in glomerular filter rate, which leads to a variety of consequences, including anemia and cardiovascular disease. In the current study, we present the case of a 57-year-old male who has had CKD for 6 months after being diagnosed with hypertension for 2 years. He received allopathic treatment for 6 months, but he experienced no relief. Finally, he was advised to start dialysis therapy. After that, patient refused to opt for dialysis and approached an Ayurveda hospital for further management. Based on his clinical presentation, the patient was suspected of having Mutravahasrotasdusti, and treatment was initiated using the principle of Mutrakriccha Chikitsa. For 2 months, he took oral medications, including Gokshurak Rasayana (GR), Chandraprabha Vati (CP Vati), Punarnavasav, and Lohasav. We observed clinical improvement in addition to the kidney function test results and Hb% levels, which were performed twice with a 30-day interval. He exhibited normal urine, a good appetite, and increased bodily strength with an increase in body weight.
Treatment principles of Ayurveda to manage Kamala (Jaundice): A case study
Authors: Irshad Nazia , Singh Naimish Raj , Varsakiya Jitendrakumar Nathabhai
Published: February 2024

Jaundice is a condition, in which hyperbilirubinemia is found along with yellowish discoloration of the sclera, skin, mucous membrane, and interstitial fluid. The causes of jaundice are hemolytic diseases, hepatocellular dysfunction, and obstructive disorders of the hepatobiliary system. Clinical manifestations of jaundice arise when the blood bilirubin level exceeds 2.5 mg/dL. Jaundice can be put under the heading of Kamala described in Ayurvedic texts. A 12-year-old girl was visited in the outpatient department of the Kayachikitsa department at Ch. Brahm Prakash Ayurved Charak Sansthan with the chief complaints of low appetite, gaseous abdomen, yellowish discoloration of sclera, weakness, and vertigo for 1 week. The patient was investigated in the hospital and was diagnosed Jaundice with investigation. The patient was effectively managed by the combination of Phaltrikadi Kwath 20 mL empty stomach in the morning, combined powder of Katuki Churna 1 g and Bhumi Amalaki Churna 1 g after food with lukewarm water twice a day, and 15 mL of Abhyarishta at night with normal water was given. The outcome was assessed based on symptoms, and lab investigations showed profound results. Therefore, it can be said that these medications are quite successful in treating jaundice.
A systematic review of the pharmacological effects of Guda Shunthyadi syrup and Siddha Eranda Til Taila Matra Basti
Authors: Budhlakoti Kanika , Shukla Gyanendra D , Garg Girraj P
Published: February 2024

Guda Shunthyadi syrup is a classical Ayurvedic formulation mentioned in Bhavprakash for the management of Vibandha (constipation). This syrup consists of Guda (Jaggery), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), Haritiki (Terminalia chebula), Dadima (Punica granatum), and Pippali (Piper longum). In contrast, Siddha Eranda Til Taila Matra Basti is described in Ashtanga Hridya by Acharya Vagbhatta for the management of Vibandha. The components for the basti are Dashmoola, Devdaru (Cedrus deodara), Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica), Eranda Taila (Ricinus communis), and Til Taila (Sesamum indicum). Our objective is to study the pharmacological evidences of Guda Shunthyadi syrup and Siddha Eranda Til Taila Matra Basti with their components. Research literature published in online journals of PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, DHARA, and Ayush Research Portal was searched extensively. The keywords used were pharmacological evidence or study of Guda Shunthyadi syrup, Guda (Jaggery), Shunthi (Z. officinale), Haritiki (T. chebula), Dadima (P. granatum), Pippali (P. longum), Dashmoola, Devdaru (C. deodara), Amalaki (P. emblica), and Eranda Taila (R. communis). Journals published online in last 20 years were considered. Ayurveda classical texts were also referred. As per the observations, the components of Guda Shunthyadi syrup and Siddha Eranda Til Taila Matra Basti show the several properties such as as anti-oxidant, anti-ulcer, laxative. anti-amoebic, antimicrobial, immunomodulator, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, stomachic, antitoxic, digestive, general tonic, antacid, and brain tonic. But, majorly, both of these drugs have their therapeutic results on Vibandha (constipation). The drug, Guda Shunthyadi syrup and Siddha Eranda Til Taila Matra Basti, has promising therapeutic potential. It can be used as a Rasayana drug, an anti-infective agent, and drug for Vibandha (constipation). The same needs to be further validated with larger, multicentric, standard controlled, and randomized clinical trials.
Novel technique for laparoscopic common bile duct exploration using flexible videobronchoscope to study on clinical outcomes of single-stage (laparoscopic cholecystectomy and laparoscopic common bile duct exploration) versus dual-stage (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy) for cholelithiasis with choledocholithiasis – Prospective study in a tertiary care centre (BRACE study – BRonchoscope Assisted Common bile duct Exploration Study)
Authors: Singh Pawan Kumar , Haldeniya Kulbhushan , Krishna S. R. , Raghavendra Annagiri
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

This study aimed to study on clinical outcomes of single-stage (laparoscopic cholecystectomy [LC] and laparoscopic common bile duct [CBD] exploration using flexible videobronchoscope) versus dual-stage (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography followed by laparoscopic cholecystectomy) for cholelithiasis with choledocholithiasis-prospective study in a tertiary care centre (BRACE STUDY-Bronchoscope-Assisted CBD Exploration [CBDE] Study).

Patients and Methods:

Between April 2022 and April 2023, patients who underwent LC with laparoscopic CBDE and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) followed by LC participated in this single-centre prospective research. The Institute Ethics Committee granted its approval after receiving an ethical review. The primary endpoint of the proposed research was the removal of the gall bladder and CBD stones. The secondary outcomes studied were complications using the Clavien-Dindo score, cost-effectiveness, patient satisfaction score and post-procedure duration of hospital stay.

Results:

A total of 168 patients were included in the study. The success rate of LC with laparoscopic CBD exploration using a flexible videobronchoscope (Group 1) was significantly higher as compared to ERCP f/b LC (Group 2) (96.4% vs. 84.5%, P value = 0.02). Out of the 84 patients in Group 1, direct choledochotomies were performed on 83 of them. Group 1 had a considerably shorter hospital stay (4.6 ± 2.4 vs. 5.3 ± 6.2 days; P = 0.03). Both the cost (P = 0.002) and the number of procedures per patient (P < 0.001) were considerably higher in Group 2. Major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade 3 and above) were significantly higher in Group 2 (P = 0.04). Patient satisfaction in Group 1 scored more favourably than those in Group 2 (2.26 ± 0.3 vs. 1.92 ± 0.7; P = 0.006).

Conclusion:

For concurrent gall bladder and CBD stones, single-stage management by LCBDE using a flexible videobronchoscope has a significantly better primary outcome and lower major complications than dual-stage management. The single-stage strategy also has advantages in terms of a shorter hospital stay, the need for fewer procedures, cost efficiency and patient satisfaction.
Plasmablastic Lymphoma in Epstein–Barr Virus-negative Patient
Authors: AlSahari Ghaidaa R. , Al-Marzouki Adel F. , Bakhsh Salwa I. A. , Albaity Bushra Shehabaddin , Hamad Rahf Essam
Published: February 2024

Plasmablastic lymphoma is a rare and aggressive variant of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. It often develops in immunocompromised patients, particularly in human immunodeficiency virus-positive individuals. This report highlights the development of such a rare, aggressive malignancy in an immunocompetent adult male with negative Epstein–Barr virus serology. The patient was diagnosed 6 months after the onset of neck and submandibular swelling. A pan-computed tomography scan revealed nodal and extranodal involvement of the iliac bone and iliacus muscle. Chemotherapy was planned, but the patient’s condition deteriorated and he died. This case helps us to understand the clinicopathological features of this malignancy in the Saudi population and may help in early detection and better prognosis.
Frequency and risk factors of delirium in the pediatric intensive care unit of a tertiary care hospital: A prospective observational study
Authors: Khan Sidra , Haseeb Abdul , Khalid Muhammad , Sher Atika , Haque Anwar
Published: February 2024

Background:

Critical illness is one of the most common causes of delirium in children which can be associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Delirium continues to be an overlooked aspect of the management of critically ill children. This study was conducted with the objective of determining the frequency and risk factors of delirium in critically ill children.

Subjects and Methods:

This prospective observational study included patients admitted for at least a period of 24 h of teaching in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of a medical college of Pakistan from March 2022 to September 2022. Each patient was screened for developing delirium twice a day using the Cornell Assessment of Pediatric Delirium.

Results:

The median age of the patients was 19.5 months (interquartile range: 10.7–72). There were 64.6% (n = 106) of male children, and 97.2% (n = 143) were admitted due to medical conditions. Delirium was identified in 97 (59.1%) patients. Mortality was observed in 3 (1.8%) cases. The average length of stay and frequency of hypoxia was higher among the pediatric delirium group (P = 0.002 and P = 0.022, respectively). Independent predictors of delirium in PICU patients were length of stay (odds ratio [OR], 2.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.39–4.20), use of inotropes (OR, 3.32; 95% CI, 1.0.4–10.64), use of narcotics (OR, 8.78; 95% CI, 0.96–80.51), and hypoxia (OR, 3.02; 95% CI, 1.17–7.81).

Conclusion:

Delirium is common in children admitted to PICU. Length of PICU stay, use of narcotics, inotropes, and hypoxia were found as independent risk factors for delirium.
Referred otalgia: Etiology and incidence among 136 patients in Hillah City, Iraq
Authors: Aljubory Saad Abdul-Raheem Hussein
Published: February 2024

Background:

Prompt history and clinical examination are mandatory to fix the proper diagnosis of refereed ear pain which sometimes needs the aid of laboratory, radiological assessments, and even examination under general anesthesia.

Objectives:

To diagnose cases of referred otalgia with the estimation of the incidence according to different age groups and sex.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective study was done in the ENT clinic in Hillah City, to evaluate 600 patients who presented with ear pain, 136 patients out of them were labeled as referred otalgia cases when the ear showed normal examination. The study started from January 2019 to February 2021. Physical examination with required investigations according to etiologies suspected for referred otalgia was done accordingly.

Results:

Out of 600 patients who presented with otalgia, 136 patients had referred otalgia (22.6%). The right ear was more affected than the left one (54%), whereas four cases had bilaterally referred ear pain. Of them, 57 patients had temporomandibular (TM) dysfunction (42%), 34 patients had pharyngeal pathologies including tumors (25%), 20 patients had cervical causes (14.7%), 11 patients had dental problems (8%), 8 patients had miscellaneous cases including salivary glands, oral cavity, lymph nodes, and long styloid process (5.8%), and 6 patinets had nasal and sinus problems (4.5%).

Conclusion:

Ear pain could be due to remote etiologies rather than the ear especially when it is normal by examination. The pain is mainly from adjacent head and neck structures. Physical examination of those structures especially TM joints, teeth, pharynx, nose, and sinuses is important to identify the causes of ear pain. Malignancy may be one of the causes and should not be missed.
Knowledge, practice, and attitude evaluation of forensic dentistry among Iraqi dentists: Questionnaire-based study
Authors: Al-Dulaimy Roweda , Rashidi Harth , Alghurary Rania , Alsaraf Rukaya , Alfarag Ban , Alshami Muhanad L
Published: February 2024

Background:

Forensic dentistry is a branch of forensic science that deals with the examination, analysis, and interpretation of dental evidence in legal investigations.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, practice, and attitudes of Iraqi dentists toward forensic dentistry.

Materials and Methods:

A questionnaire was designed with four sections and distributed to dentists. The four sections were demographic, knowledge (assessed the dentists’ knowledge and consisted of 14 questions), practice (evaluated the dentists’ practices and consisted of six questions), and attitude (consisted of two questions to assess the dentists’ attitudes). For the knowledge, practice, and attitude sections, the answers were either “yes” (correct), “no,” or “I don’t know” (incorrect). The correct answer frequencies were calculated, and the mean scores of responses were compared among the different variables.

Results:

A total of 414 dentists responded, including 196 male dentists and 218 female dentists. The mean age of the responders was 32.57 years, and the responders were divided according to age into: 304 (≤40 years), and 110 dentists (˃40 years), according to qualifications into: 168 (postgraduate) and 246 (graduate), and according to experience years: 228 (≤10 years) and 186 (˃10 years). The questions related to using teeth as indicators of age received the highest number of correct answers, whereas the use of palatal rugae and lips in forensic dentistry received the lowest scores.

Conclusion:

Iraq dentists had limited knowledge, practice, and attitude about forensic dentistry. Therefore, it is important for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as official training courses, to focus more attention on forensic dentistry.
Concept of HBV and HCV as a risk factor and prevention of viral hepatitis-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Alshimerry Athraa Falah , Farhood Rawaa Ghalib
Published: February 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents one of the most common cancers worldwide, and it is a very important reason for cancer-related death. Infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) is considered the major leading cause of HCC. The pathophysiology of HB and HC viral-related HCC includes chronic inflammation, deorganization of cell signaling pathways, and oxidative stress. Contrary to HCV, HBV is oncogenic by itself, due to its integration into the DNA of cell. Six months of ultrasound monitoring is recommended for high-risk patients. Using antiviral drugs to manage viral hepatitis decreases the risk of evolution and reoccurrence of HCC. Also, effective preventive measures are very important in decreasing the risk of HCC. The prevention involves primary prevention which is based on HBV vaccination, treatment of acute infection, and eliminating the route of transmission, while secondary prevention is based on using antiviral drugs against HBV and HCV infection to prevent the progress of disease into carcinoma. However, tertiary prevention involves treating the carcinoma to prevent the reoccurrence of the cancer.
A cross-Sectional Study of Psoriatic Arthritis in One Center in Baghdad
Authors: Al-Hafidh Ali Hussein
Published: February 2024

Background:

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory illness. Nearly, 15% of psoriasis patients have undiagnosed psoriatic arthritis.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of psoriatic arthritis and different clinical–epidemiological characteristics of the disease of patients.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study included psoriatic patients who attended Baghdad Teaching Hospital. Clinical examination, laboratory investigations including rheumatoid factor analysis and radiological examination of axial and peripheral skeleton were done. The prevalence of PsA, age, sex, clinical variants of PsA, and psoriasis type were assessed.

Results:

The prevalence of psoriatic arthritis was 0.02% during the period of study, mean age of participants was 44 ± 33. Obesity and overweight were reported by 34.75%, smoking by 24.58% with significant association with gender, also 28.81% with family history more in females. Regarding comorbidity, 33.9% of patients were suffering from metabolic syndrome, 23.72% with dyslipidemia, 22.88% with hypertension, and 17.8% with diabetes. Higher percentages (65.31%) of polyarthritis had family history followed by oligoarthritis (24.45%) and distal interphalangeal (10.20%). However, the association between types of arthritis was found to be statistically nonsignificant. Regarding the distribution of study sample according to the types of treatment, higher percentage of patients (72.88%) were on methotrexate (MTX) followed by NSAIDs (64.4%), while the lower percentage (4.7%) for Golimumab.

Conclusions:

A high percentage of comorbidities such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obesity were observed. Psoriasis vulgaris was the most common type of skin lesion associated with axial involvement. Family history was associated with oligoarthritis more than other types. The first choice of treatment was MTX.
Evaluation of anxiety and depressive symptoms in a sample of adult patients with cancer at Al-Furat Cancer Hospital/Najaf
Authors: Al-Saffar Hussein Amer Hussein , Hussain Nibras Alaa
Published: February 2024

Background:

Cancer patients’ mental well-being negatively impact on treatment tolerance, reduces the effectiveness of chemotherapy, prolong hospitalization, increase healthcare cost, would lower life expectancy, and poor quality of life.

Objectives:

The objectives are to evaluate the rate of anxiety and depressive symptoms across adult cancer patients and to find its association with some sociodemographic factors.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out in Al-Furat Cancer Hospital in Najaf/Iraq, from April 10 to July 10, 2022. All convenient patients who were admitted to the hospital during the study period were included. The data were collected by interviewing the patient using semiconstructed questionnaire, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was used. Chi-square and independentttests were used.

Results:

Among a total of 470 patients, the mean age was 54.1 ± 14.2 years, 284 (60.4%) were female, and 364 (77.4%) were married. About 183 (38.9%) patients had anxiety disorder, and there was a significant association among gender, marital state, occupation, presence of pain, and having gynecological cancers with anxiety. Around 163 (34.7%) of patients had depressive symptoms. The study showed a significant association among gender, occupation, low income, and the presence of a positive family history of cancer, metastasis, and pain with depression.

Conclusions:

More than one-third of the sample suffered from anxiety and depression; females more than males. There was a significant association between anxiety/depression and gender, occupation, and presence of pain.
Serum erythropoietin level in anemic and non-anemic patients with chronic leukemia
Authors: Hussein Ali Hasan Allami , Mohammad Najlaa Bader Al-Awadi , Farhood Rwaa G
Published: February 2024

Background:

Anemia is a common issue in chronic leukemia, which results in a worse outcome and shorter survival. Inadequate production of erythropoietin (EPO) as compared to the severity of anemia may play a major role in ACD for patients with hematological malignancies. Clarifying the role of EPO may provide a better understanding of its pathogenesis, and proper management of patients.

Objectives:

To determine serum EPO levels and look for any potential link between EPO and the cause of anemia in anemic patients with chronic leukemia in a sample of Iraqi patients in the middle euphrates region.

Materials and Methods:

This is a case control study included 38 patients (19 chronic myeloid leukemia [CML], 19 chronic lymphocytic leukemia [CLL]) who were attending the outpatient clinic of hematology in Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Marjan Teaching Hospital from September 2022 to March 2023, together with 30 adult participants without disease as a control group. All patients involved were diagnosed as having a disease based on a specialist’s physical examination, morphological evaluation of peripheral blood films and bone marrow, and flow cytometric immune-phenotypic profile. Blood samples were collected from each subject, and the following investigations were done: CBC, RFT, blood film examination, and ELISA assay for serum EPO.

Results:

The mean age of CML patients was (50.1 ± 12.85) range from 24 to 72, CLL patients (58.2 ± 10.4) range from 38 to 75. The majority of patients were men (N = 23, 60.5%). The participants in the patient group were subdivided into 18 (47.4%) patients with anemia and 20 (52.6%) patients without anemia. The mean differences of EPO concentration (U/L) between study groups demonstrated significant higher level among patient group (49.53 ± 56.82) than control group (12.73 ± 4.72) with P value < 0.0001. The level of serum EPO in anemic patients (89.28 ± 61.95) has been found to be higher than non-anemic patients (13.82 ± 4.43) and it was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). Endogenous EPO production was found to be defective in 10% of CML patients, 50% of CLL patients were judged by a value for the ratio of observed-to-predicted serum EPO levels (observed/predicted ratio) of ≤0.9.

Conclusion:

These findings indicate that anemia associated with hematologic malignancy may result from an inappropriately low EPO response. EPO treatment should benefit in this group of patients.
Comparison of placental expression of basic fibroblast growth factor and insulin-like growth factor-1 in placentae of normal, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and preeclamptic pregnancies in Iraqi mothers
Authors: Al-Rubai Abdal-jabbar , Ibraheem Mustafa Mohammed , Hameed Ahmed Fakhir , Noel Khalida Ibrahim , Eleiwi Samia Abbas
Published: February 2024

Background:

Many pathological insults are associated with elevation of blood pressure levels during pregnancy resulting in a difficult pregnancy and a poor outcome on both mother and baby.

Objective:

In this study, we examine the histological and immunohistochemical markers of the placentae in cases of hypertension in pregnancy and preeclampsia and compared them to a placenta of normal pregnancy among a random sample of Iraqi pregnant women.

Materials and Methods:

Ninety women divided into three groups, 30 in each, selected with straightforward pregnancies (Group A), mothers with pregnancy-induced hypertension (Group B), and preeclamptic mothers (Group C) were chosen from the indoor patients of the gynecology and obstetrics department of Al-Khansaa teaching hospital in Mosul for placental tissues examination. Histological examination was done by using hematoxylin and eosin stain (H & E), and immunohistochemistry was achieved by using immunohistochemical markers named: insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and basic fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF) markers, which are expressed in placental tissues.

Results:

Different changes were observed in the placentae affected when compared with normal one, such as syncytial knots formation, thickening of trophoblastic basement membrane, cytotrophoblastic cellular proliferation, fibrinoid necrosis, endothelial proliferation, calcified and hyalinised villous spots, villous edema, and atherosis of the uteroplacental arteries. Significant immunohistochemical changes were obtained when compared with normal placentae where elevation of both b-FGF and IGF-1 in preeclamptic placentae was observed when compared to hypertensive and control cases.

Conclusion:

Significant changes appeared in the placentae of hypertensive and preeclamptic mothers, both in histological and immunohistochemical examinations.
Relationship between modifiable atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk factors and coronary artery bifurcation lesion
Authors: Aljubawii Ameer Ahmad Abd AL-Ameer , Ali Ali Ibrahim , Al Mamuri Hassan Ali Essa
Published: February 2024

Background:

Modifiable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk factors are hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, cigarette smoking, and obesity; the term coronary artery bifurcation is used when a coronary artery divides into two hemodynamically important branches or when the main branch has a hemodynamic significant side branch, bifurcation lesion represent 20% or more of coronary artery stenoses undergoing angiography.

Objectives:

To evaluate the relationship of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, cigarette smoking, and obesity to coronary bifurcation disease.

Materials and Methods:

In a cross-sectional study conducted in the Iraqi Center for Heart Diseases from May 2020 to May 2021, a total of 140 adult patients (70 cases with coronary bifurcation lesions and 70 control cases with non-bifurcation lesions) with angiography-documented stenotic coronary artery disease (CAD) were defined. Case demographics and modifiable CAD risk factors were addressed.

Results:

In the bifurcation group, the non-bifurcation lesion was mostly an associated angiographic finding (82%). The most significantly correlated atherosclerotic risk factor with bifurcation lesion compared to non-bifurcation lesion was diabetes, followed by systemic hypertension. Dyslipidemia was the most common prevalent risk factor, equally distributed in both groups. Smoking and obesity were distributed nearly equally in both groups.

Conclusion:

There is a significant relationship between diabetes and hypertension with coronary bifurcation lesions compared to non-bifurcation lesions.
Studying the immunological dysregulation in women with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Al-Shujiry Hajar Dawood Salman , Al-Shibly Ifad Kerim Abd , Al-Hasnawy Huda H
Published: February 2024

Background:

“Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)” is the most prevalent pregnancy-related metabolic condition, and its prevalence is rising globally. It is responsible for hyperglycemia in “pregnant women.” Early detection of pregnant women at risk of GDM is the first step toward administering effective preventative measures to reduce maternal and neonatal problems. The accurate identification of GDM is still debatable, and interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β), IL-18, and nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) are the most recent markers utilized in the diagnosis of GDM.

Objective:

The goal of this study was to determine (NLRP3, IL-1β, and IL-18) levels in the serum of women with GDM to know their role in immunological dysregulation in women with GDM.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, 89 individuals were used from August 2022 to December 2022; a total of 29 healthy participants and 60 pregnant with GDM were recruited. Healthy pregnancy and research participants ranged in age from 23 to 47 years, and all of them were analyzed using serum blood samples (3 mL).

Results:

Sixty patient women affirmatives out of 89 using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); we determined that our GDM participants met the inclusion criteria. The findings of the (NLRP3, IL-1β, and IL-18) ELISA kit indicated that the level of markers was greatest in GDM (P = 0.01). The detection of (NLRP3, IL-1β, and IL-18) is made possible by using ELISA kit. This suggests that the levels of these markers are higher in pregnant patients than in controls.

Conclusion:

Patients in Babylon Province with GDM had significantly higher than average levels of (NLRP3, IL-1β, and IL-18).
Association between interleukin-1 receptor polymorphism and human herpesvirus 8 among lymphoma patients
Authors: Abbas Al-Jawdhari Ameer J , Mohammed Al-Alwany Shakir H
Published: February 2024

Background:

Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) stimulates lymphoproliferation, by activating the signaling pathway of the interleukin-6 receptor, along with several other regulatory mechanisms. The presence of specific genetic variations governing immune responses can impact the promotion or suppression of malignant lymphoma. Polymorphisms in the gene cluster of interleukin-1 (IL-1) have been identified as significant contributors to the regulation of inflammation.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the percentage HHV-8 and whether polymorphisms at IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) locus modulate the risk of developing malignant lymphoma of a group of Iraqi patients in the Mid-Euphrates Sector, Iraq.

Materials and Methods:

A case-control study was conducted on 200 specimens obtained from patients with lymphoma and individuals without any apparent health conditions who served as the control group (considered normal individuals). The specimens were collected from various general hospitals and private clinics located in the Middle Euphrates region of Iraq. The study population included individuals aged between 17 and 75 years. Specimen collection took place between October 2022 and February 2023. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was chosen for the detection of HHV-8 as well as IL-1ra gene polymorphism by sequencing.

Results:

According to PCR detection, 31 out of 64 (48.4%) of the specimens revealed PCR detection positivity for HHV-8, whereas 33 out of 64 (51.6%) specimens showed negative detection for HHV-8. The lymphoma which were most HHV-8-infected are related to the age stratum (56–75 years), accounted for 48%, whereas the age strata 15–35 years, and 36–55 years, each accounted for 23% and 29%, respectively.

Conclusion:

In view of the relatively small numbers included in our study, the present results indicate the possibility that HHV-8 and IL-1ra polymorphism may play a role in the tumor biology of lymphocyte and may contribute to their development.
Evaluation of the level of the inflammatory factor interleukin-6 in patients with polycystic ovaries and insulin resistance
Authors: Hussein Zahraa Emad , Mohammed Rehab J , Abdul Wahid Hameedah H
Published: February 2024

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disease, with a rate of 6%–20% among females of reproductive age, according to the diagnostic criteria represented by the high male hormone, irregular menstruation, imbalances in hormones, and metabolic disorders. Insulin resistance (IR) is an imbalance in the amount of insulin secreted. This raises the danger of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Evaluate the inflammatory factor (interleukin-6 [IL-6]) in the serum of those with IR and PCOS and its comparison with the control group. A case and control study included 80 females of reproductive age (16–40) years; 40 females had IR and polycystic ovary syndrome taken as the first group, as for the second group included 40 healthy women. Every sample was taken between October 2022 and February 2023. The following analysis was done (IL-6). The study’s findings showed a difference in the biostatistics of the level of IL-6 between the PCOS and IR group with the control group, as well as when compared in the group of patients in terms of age, it showed the correlation factor between IL-6 and IR. It was found that the level of IL in those with PCOS and IR was higher than the control group, as well as the increase in age in the group of patients, the level of IL-6 increased, and it showed that there was no significant value between IL-6 and IR.
Rehabilitation problems of people with motor disabilities at Babylon center for rehabilitation of the disabled
Authors: Radhi Mohammed Malih , Al-Eqabi Qasim Abbas Khyoosh , Hindi Nada Khazal K
Published: February 2024

Background:

The provision of physical, psychological, and social rehabilitation becomes an important process for people with disabilities.

Objectives:

This study aimed to assess the degree of rehabilitation problems from caregiver’s perspective at Babylon Center for Rehabilitation of the Disabled.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from the period from March 7th to May 4th, 2023. The study sample, consisted of 117 caregivers, is selected according to non-probability sampling approach. The validity of the questionnaire was verified by experts and its reliability was verified through a pilot study. Data were collected through the self-report techniques and analyzed by applying descriptive and inferential statistical analysis.

Results:

The results indicate that the average age of the respondents was 42.15 ± SD = 4.39) years; they were mostly male respondents (79.5%), the Diploma graduated (57.3%), and less than 5 years experienced (59.8%). The degree of rehabilitation problems of people with motor disabilities was high in physical and psychological, and average in social problems. There is a negative correlation between rehabilitation problems and different genders, educational levels, and years of experience for caregivers.

Conclusions:

The study concludes that rehabilitation problems in terms of physical and psychological problems are very significant and are influenced by the professional characteristics of caregivers such as gender, educational level, and experience. It is recommended that the importance of educating and training various rehabilitation care providers about the nature of disability and ways to deal with it, especially for the physically disabled is highly recommended.
Assessment of some immunological and physiological indicators for infected and uninfected coronavirus disease patients
Authors: AbdulKhaliq Roua Jamal , Ahmed M N , Ali Anas Yahya , AlKhateeb Hiba M
Published: February 2024

Background:

The most serious respiratory consequences of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) include the common cold, coagulopathy, multiorgan failure, and death. It can also harm essential organs, including the kidney, liver, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and brain system.

Objective:

The study’s objectives were to investigate the impact of COVID-19 infection on liver damage by analyzing a range of indicators such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, C-reactive protein (CRP), and d-dimer protein.

Materials and Methods:

To achieve the study’s goal, blood samples were collected from a group of patients (both males and females), and a series of serological tests were performed, including immunological testing and measurements of CRP, d-dimer, and liver function.

Results:

In this study of 80 patients (age range between 17 and 70 years), the female-to-male ratio in both groups was 20:20. The difference in CRP level between study groups was statistically significant (P ≤ 0.001). The d-dimer level (ng/mL) in patients with infected COVID was significantly higher (P ≤ 0.001) than in the control group, while there was no statistically significant variation in blood liver enzymes between infected and noninfected COVID groups. According to statistical analysis, there is no discernible gender difference between groups of noninfected people and infected patients.

Conclusion:

The study findings indicate that there are no significant differences between infected males and females when compared to the comparison group; however, there are distinct variances in CRP and d-dimer levels in the infected group. The results of liver function tests and enzyme measurements revealed no significant changes between the infected and healthy groups.
Study of the biological activity of honey and royal jelly against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Najeeb Laith Muslih
Published: February 2024

Background:

The resistance of bacteria to antibiotics is an important problem that has attracted the attention of researchers. Also, the Pseudomonas aeruginosa is of great importance, especially in what it possesses of the possibility of inducing disease and overcoming the immune defenses.

Objective:

This study aimed to treat infection caused by P. aeruginosa with honey and royal jelly.

Materials and Methods:

Pseudomonas aeruginosa taken from the laboratories of the University of Baghdad diagnosed as a causative agent that is resistant to antibiotics. The diagnosis was carried out using some culture and microscopic, biochemical tests and the Vitek-2 test. After that, the sensitivity against some antibiotics by disk diffusion method was done, then the isolate was grown in different concentrations of local honey and royal jelly, to identify the effect of honey types on increasing the sensitivity toward the antibiotics.

Results:

The results showed that the isolate belonged to P. aeruginosa and was resistant to antibiotics The results showed that the presence of royal jelly, local honey, and their mixture at certain concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15% increased the sensitivity toward most of the antibiotics disc zone (mm) and with a significant difference compared to the control, the sensitivity of the isolate grown in the culture medium containing 15% of royal jelly increased toward treatment SXI (Co-trimoxazole 25) is so that it becomes 27, and at the time the result of the isolate growing in the control medium was 13 and the same result (increasing the sensitivity) when using the antibiotic T (Tetracycline 30).

Conclusion:

Certain safe natural products, such as honey and royal jelly, exhibit antibacterial properties that have the potential to enhance the effectiveness of certain antibiotics when used in combination.