bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interesting Cases of Wrist Drops and Foot Drops
Authors: Mahavar Sunil Kumar , Ishran Rohit , Kasana Rajendra Kumar , Prasad Mohit
Published: May 2024

Lead exposures occur through many routes to the human body in a wide range of occupations. Chronic lead exposure can lead to a myriad of symptoms and signs. The most common manifestations are neurological. In our case series, we found chronic lead toxicity presenting as wrist drops and foot drops. Cases also had anemia and liver dysfunction. Occupational history is very important in wrist drops and foot drops to suspect plumbisms as serum lead level is not available everywhere. We have also observed that outdoor-based penicillamine treatment is efficacious.
An Interesting Case of Blau Syndrome – A Rare Autoinflammatory Disease
Authors: Nagpal Swapan , Singh Veer
Published: May 2024

Blau syndrome is an autosomal dominant, autoinflammatory disease. It typically presents in early childhood with a triad of granulomatous uveitis, symmetrical arthritis, and dermatitis. A 6-year-old child presented to us after being diagnosed with granulomatous uveitis. Examination revealed bilateral boggy wrist swellings. Suspecting Blau syndrome, clinical exome sequencing was performed, which reported a mutation in the NOD2/CARD15 gene confirming the diagnosis. Our case demonstrates that the classical triad of this disease may not be present in all patients, and all features may not occur simultaneously. A high index of suspicion is required for the diagnosis of this rare disease.
Therapies to Treat Depression in Hypothyroid Patients
Authors: Nilkantham Savithri , Singh Amit
Published: May 2024

Hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis seems to play an important role in the pathogenesis of depression in hypothyroid patients. Studies have shown that hypothyroidism can induce mood changes and major depressive disorders, but what governs the reason for this linkage and the most suitable therapy to manage this condition is not very clear. We aim to investigate the various existing therapies administered for depression due to hypothyroidism and the potential scope of yoga therapy to treat these conditions effectively. A systematic literature search of five databases, namely, EBSCO, SCOPUS, PROQUEST, PubMed, and Elsevier using the keywords in the area of “hypothyroidism, depression, and therapies” was carried out till the period 2023 following the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” guidelines to select the relevant English-language peer-reviewed articles for the study. The objective of this study was to present the work done so far in the field of treating depression in hypothyroidism through therapy techniques. The paper reviews 18 specific empirical studies on various available therapies administered for depression in hypothyroidism and based on the extant literature covers four broad themes: (1) hormone therapy, (2) antidepressant pharmacotherapy, (3) cognitive psychotherapy, and (4) yoga therapy. This review provides a clear need for more yoga therapy studies, as only two yoga studies were found for treating depression in hypothyroidism that have shown significant outcomes.
Enhancing Airway Management: A Comparative Study of Macintosh and TAS Scope in Difficult Intubations
Authors: Venkatalakshmana Sanjana Kota , Kaaviya R
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Intubation is essential in anesthesia for patient safety, requiring accurate techniques for difficult airways. Achieving first-attempt success is crucial. This study evaluates traditional laryngoscopes, such as the Macintosh, versus advanced tools like the TAS Scope.

Material and Methods:

This observational study, conducted from April to August 2023 at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, involved 60 patients aged 18–65. The two groups of Macintosh laryngoscope and TAS Scope 30 each are based on airway difficulty predictors and patient characteristics.

Results:

The TAS Scope group had a higher first-attempt success rate and easier intubation experiences according to Likert scale ratings.

Conclusion:

The study underscores the benefits of using advanced devices like the TAS Scope for difficult airway management, showing higher success rates and ease of use. These findings support the adoption of new technologies to enhance patient safety and intubation effectiveness.
Green Synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles Using Polyalthia longifolia Roots and their Bioactivities Against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans
Authors: Maulana Ilham , Ginting Binawati , Mustafa Irfan , Islami Ratu A. N.
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

The synthesis of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) has been the center of researchers’ attention due to their potential in various fields, particularly in medicine and pharmacy. The objective of this research was to synthesize CuNPs by using the extract from Polyalthia longifolia roots via an organic solvent-free approach. The roots of P. longifolia were extracted using boiling water and subsequently used to synthesize CuNPs from CuSO4 solution. The resultant nanoparticles were then characterized using UV–Vis spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope–energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Kirby–Bauer sensitivity test was performed against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans. In the results, we found that the total phenolic content and total flavonoid content of the extract were 85.43 GAE/g dry extract and 0.78 QE/g dry extract, respectively. The characterizations revealed that the obtained nanoparticles possess a spherical shape and diameters of around 2 to 10 nm. The XRD suggests that the nanoparticles were occupied by copper (0) and copper oxides (CuO, CuO2, and Cu2O). The synthesized CuNPs yielded inhibition zones of 17.2 ± 0.2, 15.6 ± 0.2, and 13.7 ± 0.1 mm against S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans, respectively. In conclusion, aqueous extract from the roots of P. longifolia can be used to synthesize CuNPs that could be used as an antibacterial and antifungal agent.
Right-Sided Bochdalek Hernia Associated with Group B Streptococcal Sepsis in a Preterm Neonate
Authors: Alamir Abdulrahman A. B. , AlShammari Alanoud M.
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

We report here a compelling case of a premature female newborn who was originally treated for breathing difficulties that arose a few hours after delivery. The initial chest radiograph showed no abnormalities, and the blood culture detected sepsis caused by group B streptococcus (GBS). The antibiotic treatment was modified accordingly. Later on, she experienced a gradually increasing opacification in the right side of her chest, which did not respond to medical treatment. A subsequent imaging examination conducted a few days later indicated the presence of a hernia in the right side of the diaphragm. The neonate, who was 14 days old, received surgical intervention to fix the abnormality in the diaphragm. The procedure was successful, and there were no complications during the postpartum period. This case report aims to emphasize the distinctive correlation between early-onset GBS sepsis and the postponed occurrence of right-side diaphragmatic hernia.
Comparison Between the Conventional and Electronic Smoking Effects on Periodontal Health—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Almazyad Rayan Khaled , Alazmi Saad Obaid , Syed Nubesh Khan , Altorisy Abdullah Bader , Alshyai Hammad Saleh , Alghofaili Meshal Mohammed , Alsaegh Mohammed Khalid
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

To compare the adverse effect of e-cigarettes and conventional cigarette smoking on periodontal health.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty participants were split into two groups of 30 each (Group A—traditional cigarettes and Group B—e-cigarette smokers). Socio-demographic data, smoking, and oral health status were gathered using a self-administered questionnaire. Gingival index (GI), Russell’s periodontal index, and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were recorded in patients of both the groups.

Results:

The mean GI (1.79), periodontal index (5.92), and CAL (3.44) were higher in patients using traditional cigarettes than e-cigarettes. The questionnaire revealed that patients using traditional cigarettes had bleeding gums (32.22%), pus in the gums (39.22%), extracted teeth due to mobility (59.65%), discolored tooth (89.66%), and tongue (71.76%), which was more than e-cigarette smokers.

Conclusion:

E-cigarette smokers have similar adverse effects on the periodontal tissues but are less as compared to normal cigarette smokers.
Effect of academic-environmental stress on apical periodontitis of non-endodontic teeth
Authors: Shakir Amory Zainab , Mueen Hussein Hashim , Nashwan Naji Aya , Tariq Mutar Mustafa
Published: May 2024

Background:

The periapical area of a tooth was diagnosed using radiography; many types of risk factors can affect the health of the apical area which is the stress during life.

Objective:

To analyze the prevalence of academic-environmental stress and apical periodontitis in non-endodontic teeth of dental students using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) X-ray, and to demonstrate the association between stress and the prevalence of apical periodontitis.

Materials and Methods:

Cross-sectional study was done on the 103 recruited dental students aged 22–24 years during the final examination year of study in dentistry college. The academic-environmental stress scale was used to measure the level of stress in each student. The CBCT X-ray was taken for each student. The apical area was measured only for non-root canal-treated teeth using the CBCT periapical radiography index. Chi-square (χ
2) test was used to show the percentages of stress and the relationship between apical periodontitis and stress in students.

Results:

53 students (51.5%) had a stressed state, whereas 50 students (48.5%) had a non-stressful state. The prevalence of apical periodontitis was greater among stressed than that of non-stressed students in non-endodontic teeth. Statistically, there was a significant relationship between academic-environmental stress and apical periodontitis in non-endodontic teeth.

Conclusion:

There was a negative effect of examination stress on the apical healthy of teeth that can be increased with the presence of any additional factors such as problems of life.
Diagnostic study of fungal and bacterial pathogens that cause vaginal infection in women
Authors: Rashed Heba Hadid , Al-Hussaini Ibtihal Muiz , Al-Marzoqi Ali H
Published: May 2024

Background:

Vaginal infection is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching, and pain. A specific kind of vaginal inflammation known as bacterial vaginosis is roughing on by an overabundance of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina, which throws the body’s delicate equilibrium out of whack. Vaginal candidiasis is a fungal infection that affects the vagina and the vulva, the tissues at the vaginal opening, causing irritation, discharge, and severe itching.

Objectives:

Isolation, identification, and partial purification of bacteria and fungi that cause vaginal infection.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, 150 vaginal samples were collected from women aged 15–55 who did not have any chronic diseases in the city of Hilla, Iraq. Cultivation of samples of bacteria on MacConkey, mannitol salt, and Eosin-methylene blue culture media and fungi on potato dextrose agar medium and chromo agar for Candida and conducting diagnostic tests for them.

Results:

The samples were culture on different medium. Bacteria have a percentage (55.3%) and fungi percentage (54.7%). Types of bacteria that appeared are Escherichia coli 24.3%, Klebsiella 20%, and Staphylococcus aureus 55.7%. Fungi are Candida albicans 52.6%, Candida glabrata 23.7%, and Candida krusie 23.7% have all been identified as fungi in clinical cases. Biochemical tests were performed for each sample, whether bacteria or fungi and included an examination (indol, citrate, urease, catalase, oxidase, coagulase, and H2S).

Conclusion:

Through results appeared S. aureus papered was found to be more common than bacteria species and fungi in clinical cases. C. albicans was found to be more common than other Candida species.
Study of some virulence genes from uropathogenic Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated in Wasit Province, Iraq
Authors: Raheema Rana H , Hadi Sabaa Hilal , Chabuck Zainab Adil Ghani
Published: May 2024

Background:

Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are the most common causes of nosocomial urinary tract infections (UTIs), and in recent years, these bacteria have become significantly more resistant to antibiotics.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to determine the frequency of uropathogenic K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa in clinical urine samples from patients with UTIs in Wasit Province.

Materials and Methods:

Initially, 100 clinical urine samples were taken for this investigation from (October 1 to December 1, 2022), and the isolates were initially identified using culture, microscopic analysis, and biochemical assays.

Results:

The findings of the biochemical results revealed that 16/100 isolates had a 16% positive response for K. pneumonia, and 13/100 isolates had a 13% positive response for P. aeruginosa. When DNA was recovered from the isolates, the nucleic acid purity was diverse from 1.8 to 2.0, and the concentration fluctuated from 50 to 360 mg/µL. By using molecular techniques, including the 16S rRNA gene, for confirmation of the diagnosis. These findings were validated by the polymerase chain reaction method used to detect the virulence genes fimH gene, where 4/16 (25%) and mrkA gene, where result 7/16 (43.75%) were positive in recovered K. pneumoniae isolated. And RNA polymerase subunit B (rpoB) gene where results 10/13 (76.92%) were positive in recovered P. aeruginosa isolated.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the outcomes of this study presented a significant increase in biofilm-forming and multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae isolates, which also harbor a wide range of virulence genes and used rpoB as high molecular identification properties to confirm the P. aeruginosa, the most efficient antibiotics for its treatment were Impinem and Nitrofurantoin for both K. pneumonia and P. aeruginosa.
Effectiveness of fractionated microneedle radiofrequency in treatment of seborrheic dermatitis
Authors: Hasan Anwar Issa , Hasan Ethar Falah , Latif Tuqa Mohammed
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a chronic, relapsing skin illness that causes erythematous, scaly patches and plaques on sebaceous-rich regions including the scalp, face, and chest. Fractionated microneedle radiofrequency (FMR) manages SD symptoms, reduces inflammation, controls sebum production, and improves skin quality and appearance, increasing patient satisfaction.

Objective:

The aim of this research is to determine the effectiveness of FMR in treating SD.

Materials and Methods:

Cross-sectional study. Group A included 20 SD patients. They are treated with combination medicine therapy (isotretinoin pill 10 mg on alternative days with topical emollient cream) and FMR single section each month, with an average of two sections per patient (1–4 section). Group B included 20 SD patients. Group B received isotretinoin tablets of 10 mg on alternative days and a topical emollient cream.

Results:

Group A (mean age = 31.5 ± 7.6 years, 25% females, 75% males) showed a greater reduction in SD grades after treatment compared to group B (mean age = 31.6 ± 8.7 years, 35% females, 65% males). Group A also had a higher percentage of non-relapsing SD cases (63%) and higher satisfaction levels (73.7%) post-treatment, with no significant association between gender, age, and satisfaction. Clear SD grade correlated with higher satisfaction (72.7%) and lower relapse rates (81.1%).

Conclusion:

FMR and topical therapy dramatically decrease SD severity and recurrence rates, with excellent patient satisfaction across all ages and genders. These encouraging outcomes need larger studies.
Online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic: Medical students’ perspective of challenges and barriers
Authors: Al-Mansouri Loma , Al-Obaidi Firas R , Abdullah Noor Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Background:

Medical education has been affected significantly during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. During the pandemic, online learning functioned as the principal pathway of education at all levels of education for a considerable time. Online medical education has faced many challenges and constraints.

Objectives:

To evaluate the students’ perception toward online medical education in Iraq and related challenges and limitations.

Materials and Methods:

This study is a cross-sectional, descriptive study to evaluate the challenges and barriers of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. We created an online questionnaire. The survey was introduced to undergraduate students in the medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and nursing colleges from all stages at the University of Basrah, south of Iraq. The study was conducted in April 2020.

Results:

The total number of participants was 882 students. There were 438 (49.6%) females. The responses of the students showed different problems and limitations facing online learning. These were divided into student-, faculty-, and technical-related barriers. The survey showed that 77% of the students are facing difficulties with having internet or having low-quality internet services. In addition, there was a shortage of students’ electronic devices mainly due to financial causes. The faculty-related were considered by the students (71.4%) to be mainly the deficient experience of the teaching staff in using digital resources. The students (49.4%) recommended online learning to continue in the future, blended with a classic education.

Conclusion:

The perception of medical students toward online learning was positive. The challenges and barriers to online education were related to students, faculty, and technical factors. The role of online learning can be promising in the post-COVID-19 era.
Evaluation of the inhibitory effect of Gingerol on bacteria and fungi isolated from the vagina
Authors: Rashed Heba Hadid , Al-Hussaini Ibtihal Muiz , Al-Marzoqi Ali H
Published: May 2024

Background:

Gingerol is extracted from the rhizomes of ginger. It showed a clear effect on the bacteria and the Candida isolation from the vagina, and the highest effect was at a concentration of 30 mg/mL. The positive bacteria are more responsive to gingerol than the negative bacteria; gingerol is a great inhibitory activity compared to antibiotics on bacteria.

Objectives:

The aim of the article is to test the sensitivity of bacteria and Candida to gingerol and some antibiotics.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, we detected the presence of the phytochemical compounds present in the Zingiber officinale and the process of extraction of gingerol from ginger by HPLC technology, and tested different concentrations of gingerol for their effect on bacteria and fungi isolated from the vagina. Some antibiotics such as (tobramycin and kanamycin) on Staphylococcus aureus and ciprofloxacin and doxycycline on Klebsiella spp. and Escherichia coli and antifungal itraconazole and nystatin on Candida species.

Results:

Gingerol showed a clear effect on bacteria and Candida isolation from the vagina, and the highest effect was at a concentration of 30 mg/mL. Gram-positive bacteria S. aureus is more sensitive to gingerol than the Gram-negative bacteria E. coli and Klebsiella. Gingerol has a great inhibitory activity compared to antibiotics on bacteria and the highest effect on Candida albicans more than Candida tropicalis and Candida krusei.

Conclusion:

Through the results, ginger contains many pharaohs and the most important of these is an active compound gingerol that has anti-inflammatory properties through its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and Candida and had more impact on microorganisms than antibiotics.
The Relationship of immunoglobulin-e and tumor necrosis factor in patients with allergic rhinitis in Babylon province
Authors: Sabbar Bushra Jihad , Ali Zenaa Abbass , Mgheer Tariq Hussein
Published: May 2024

Background:

Rhinitis is defined as inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose usually that is accompanied by swelling of the mucosa and a nasal discharge. It is caused by immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated reactions to inhaled allergens, smoking and alcohol use, gender, age, overweight, adoption of pets, race, educational achievement, and family history can represent a risk factor for allergic rhinitis (AR).

Objectives:

To find the effect of electrolytes tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IgE on AR and study the influence of smoking, gender, and obesity (as a risk factor on AR) on the levels of TNF-α and IgE.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty subjects for this study were enrolled; 40 of those who have AR age ranged between 18 and 50 years. A control group of 40 subjects who appear to be in good health was selected. This study is a case–control study. TNF-alpha concentration and immunoglobulin-E were measured in serum by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique also The electrolytes concentrations were measured in the serum using an Abbott device with Integrated Chip Technology (ICT) human kit. The electrolytes were also measured in the serum using the Abbott device. Full history was taken from all patients, which include age, residence, smoking, body mass index, and family history of AR.

Results:

The results reveal a significant difference (P < 0.05) in levels of TNF-α, Ig-E between patients and controls, There was no significant difference between smoker and non- smoker, normal weight and overweight groups in patients and controls groups.
Pathological effects of pregabalin toxicity in rats
Authors: Mahdi Roaa Salih , Najah Nawras , Ejam Sura Salman
Published: May 2024

Background:

Pregabalin (PGB) is one kind of gabapentinoid. The main mechanism of action is binding at the alpha-2-delta site, which inhibits calcium influx in response to depolarization at nerve terminals and, in turn, suppresses the release of glutamate, noradrenaline, and substance P.

Objectives:

This study aimed to study the pathological effects of PGB toxicity on brain and liver of rats.

Materials and Methods:

We chose 20 mature albino rats, both sexes, averaging 220 g in weight; these were divided into two groups (10 rats per group): the toxic group and the control group. Tablets of Lyrica (Pfizer) may be purchased over the counter. The 300 mg of PGB in each tablet was dissolved in 3 mL of 0.9% normal saline. The dosage was determined using the maximum lethal oral dose in rats (5000 mg/kg) (Pfizer, 2017). Based on the rats’ weights, a toxic dosage of 1000 mg of PGB was determined and reconstituted in normal saline (0.9% in 3 mL). Each animal in the acute toxicity group received a single dose of the produced medication orally. After 24 h, all of the animals in both groups were euthanized. The brain and liver were quickly dissected and removed, washed in saline solution, and then processed for histopathological study.

Results:

Focal regions of hemorrhage and congestion were seen in H&E-stained sections from the acute toxicity group, and most pyramidal cells were degraded, pyknotic, and exhibited karyolysis. Cerebellar cortical layers were preserved; however, Purkinje cells were destroyed in the acute toxicity group, which also exhibited an increase in pyknotic cells, hemorrhage, vascular congestion, and localized loss of tissue. Hemorrhages, congestion of portal region blood vessels, and central veins and hepatic sinusoids were some of the most notable pathological abnormalities seen in the livers of those using PGB. Hepatocytes show nuclear pyknosis and a homogeneously acidophilic cytoplasm as a result of severe degenerative alterations, such as vacuolar degeneration and severe necrotic changes.

Conclusion:

PGB can cause pathological lesions in the brain and liver at a single toxic dose.
Endocervical miRNA-142 expression in patients with pelvic inflammatory disease positive for Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Hussein Al-Tememy Aliaa Zara Allah , Alshukri Maysaa S , Gatea Asmaa Kadhim
Published: May 2024

Background:

The most common cause of sexually transmitted diseases that can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility is Chlamydia trachomatis. Chlamydial infections are characterized by multifocality and polymorphism changes. Chlamydia causes inflammation in the adult urethra and cervix with the possibility of serious complications, and can cause perinatal infections in infants. Highly conserved single-stranded noncoding RNAs called micro-RNAs (miRNAs), which control gene expression, have now been identified as significant effect in disease conditions. MiRNAs play important regulatory roles in various biological processes for example, differentiation, development, proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle control, and metabolism. Changes in miRNA expression have been identified in many diseases, such as cardiac and autoimmune disorders, schizophrenia, and cancer. In this cross-sectional pilot investigation, samples were taken from control women who were not infected and from symptomatic women who were infected with C. trachomatis.

Objectives:

This work investigates the changes in the host miRNA-142 expression profile during chlamydial infection and not infected control group women

Materials and Methods:

The study included 200 female patients who were sampled, including endocervical swab from each female patient. Patients ranged in age from 20 to 45 years. A control group of 25 healthy ladies was also used. Chlamydia trachomatis was determined by conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) whereas miRNA-142 was detected by RT-qPCR.

Results:

All 200 collected endocervical swab specimens were diagnosed by the gynecologists as having PID. From all 200 collected endocervical swab specimens, it was found that only 22/200 (11%) were positive for C. trachomatis and the current study shows that the expression of the micro-142 gene elevated in C. trachomatis patients when compared to the control group, with the expression of the gene increasing more than 40% when compared to the control group.

Conclusions:

This study emphasizes the relevance of C. trachomatis infection in the female from 20 to 45 years in population of Iraq in Hilla city between February and August 2022. It also demonstrates the diversity of miRNA-142 expression involved in genital infection.
The relationship of growth differentiation factor 15 with some biochemical parameters in cardiovascular disease patients in Babylon City
Authors: Behayaa Hiba Resheed , Ali Zinah Abbass , Mohammed Seenaa Badr , Alqaysi Suhayr A
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the reasons of mortality in the world. In the developing world, deaths from CVD have been increasing. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is about cachexia, CVD, and a lot of inflammatory diseases. GDF15 is very low in most tissues, except the placenta (in healthy conditions), which expresses GDF15 in high levels. Though in cardiovascular damage, the level of GDF15 may rise, the natural effects of GDF15 may vary according to the stage of the disease.

Objective:

The objective of the study was the valuation of GDF15 level in the serum of patients with CVD in Babylon City and to check whether there was a link between age, body mass index, lipid profile, insulin resistance, adiponectin and C-reactive protein with GDF15.

Materials and Methods:

GDF15 was assessed in 80 Iraqi subjects; 40 were diagnosed with CVD and 40 subjects who appear healthy were considered for this study. The age ranged between 41 and 73 years for patients and control was considered for this study. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique was used for GDF15 estimation.

Results:

The results suggested that the serum levels of GDF15 and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance displayed a non-significant difference among studied groups (P > 0.05), whereas total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, triglyceride, adiponectin, and C-reactive protein appeared to have a significant difference among studied groups (P < 0.05). In contrast, the current study observed a non-significant (P > 0.05) association for GDF15 with all the clinical and biochemical parameters measured in this study.

Conclusion:

The study concluded that among the patients with CVD, the level of GDF15 revealed a non-significant relationship with the disease.
Histological changes of endocervical polypoid lesions in women at reproductive age
Authors: Al-Hamdany Muna Zuhair , Fadhil Mustafa Salah
Published: May 2024

Background:

Endocervical polyps (ECP) are fragile benign protrusions commonly affecting 2%–5% of women during the reproductive age.

Aim:

This study aimed to identify the histopathological changes of clinically identified endocervical polypoid lesions during the reproductive age to detect any premalignant or malignant transformation if present. The objective is to assist the clinicians to decide whether the cervical polyps should be excised or not.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty specimens of the resected cervical polyps were obtained from Al-Salaam Teaching Hospital in Mosul city during the period from June 2021 to February 2022, women diagnosed to have cervical polyps on per speculum examination were given a time to be operated on with exclusion of pregnant, postmenopausal women, those on hormone replacement therapy, and those below 20 years. After polypectomy, fixation of biopsies in 10% buffered formalin was done followed by processing and staining with hematoxylin and eosin for histological examination. Chi-square test was used for interpretation of the histological findings.

Results:

The study revealed that 52% of the enrolled women were in the range of 40–49 years of age. Squamous metaplasia and benign microglandular hyperplasia were detected equally in 25% of the study group. Nabothian cyst was observed in 8%, whereas leiomyoma presenting as cervical polyp in 6%. Fortunately, no malignant changes were reported in the examined 60 cases and the only serious lesion was cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) observed in 2% of the examined polyps.

Conclusion:

we conclude as the incidence of malignant transformation of endocervical polyp is low in women in reproductive age and the only critical lesion is in situ intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), it is proposed to follow an expectant management without interference and those patients can be only followed up to improve their health.
A study to evaluate platelet parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A case-control study
Authors: Ahmed Sawer Sabri
Published: May 2024

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is a multifactorial disorder characterized by persistent elevation of plasma glucose and permanent complications of both small and large vessels. The high mortality rates, a decline in quality of life, and high morbidity rates are mostly caused by these problems. When blood vessels are injured, the normal hemostatic process depends heavily on platelets to maintain their integrity.

Objectives:

This study aimed at comparing various platelet indices between people with type II diabetes and people who appeared to be in good health status.

Materials and Methods:

This case-controlled study was carried out at the Azadi Teaching Hospital’s Laboratory in Duhok. Four milliliters of blood were collected from diabetics and non-diabetic controls into ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid anticoagulant tubes. Glycated hemoglobin and complete blood count were evaluated by automated chemistry analyzer Cobas 6000 (Roche) and automated blood count analyzer (Coulter, Sweden), respectively; platelet parameters including platelet count, platelet distribution width, mean platelet volume, platelet-large cell ratio, and platelet crit were obtained. Diabetic patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 with good glycemic control (HbA1c < 7%) and Group 2 with poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7%). Statistical software SPSS 26.0 was used.

Results:

The mean age of diabetic patients in this study was 50.97 ± 10.91 years. The mean values of platelet parameters except for platelet counts were significantly higher among diabetic patients when compared to non-diabetic subjects as well as among diabetic patients with poor glycemic controls compared to those with good glycemic control.

Conclusion:

All platelet indices apart from platelet count were significantly elevated among patients with diabetes mellitus than healthy subjects and also in relation to the degree of glycemic control of the disease with a P value of <0.05.
Molecular study of blaCTX-M profile among uropathogenic Proteus mirabilis isolates
Authors: Jamin Kadhim Jwad , Al-Dahmosi Hussein O M , Jabuk Sura Ihsan Abed
Published: May 2024

Abstracts

Background:

Proteus mirabilisare the most prevalent uropathogens associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs). Infection occurs only when the pathogenicity of the bacteria surpasses the host’s regular defensive systems. A lifetime incidence of between 50% and 60% among adult women, increasing with age.

Materials and Methods:

Collected 450 (325 male and 125 female patients) with UTIs. These patients ranged in age from (17 to 70) years from four Iraqi hospitals (Merjan Hospital, Shomali General Hospital, Al-Hilla Surgical Teaching Hospital, and Babylon Hospital for Maternal and Pediatrics) from the period from July 2021 to the end of October 2022. The identification of bacterial isolates were carried out using standard bacteriological procedures. The antibiotics susceptibility test was carried out by using 12 antibiotics from different classes The molecular identification was done by using polymerase chain reaction amplification of the three bla CTX-M gene (bla CTX-MI, bla CTX-MIV, bla CTX-MII(.

Results:

The percentage of samples positive forP. mirabilisbased on culture, biochemical, and Gram stain results was 70 (15.5%) of the total 450 samples. The percentage ofP. mirabilisisolated from male patients was 21 (30%), whereas the percentage ofP. mirabilisisolated from female patients was 49 (70%) of the total 70 isolates. The result of antibiotic susceptibility showed the high resistance against nitrofurantoin (92.8%), while the higher resistance was against amikacin (10%), imipenem (4.2%), aztreonam (2.8%), and meropenem (1.4%). The result of the current study showed the percentage of bacterial sample positive to the bla CTX-MI, bla CTX-MII, bla CTX-MIV was 9 (12.85), 56 (80), and 40 (57), respectively, among 70 bacteria isolates.

Conclusions:

The result of the study showed the prevalence of antibiotic resistant gene and multidrug resistant amongP. mirabilisisolated from UTIs.
Evaluation of cervical cytological abnormalities in correlation with clinical findings in Iraqi patients
Authors: Hassooni Zainab Abbas , Al-Sabbagh Wafaa Redha Mohammed , Taher Taqi Mohammed Jwad
Published: May 2024

Objective:

Many articles study the efficiency of pap smears in detecting cervical disease and precancerous lesions; however, in Iraq, only few researches study the clinic-pathological correlation in pap smear results. In this study, we will highlight the correlation of pap smears with the most important and frequent clinical data and findings on cervical examination.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred and twenty cases are collected from private clinics of gynecology in Al-Kut province during the interval (June 1, 2020, to February 28, 2021). Clinical history was obtained and pap smear test was examined by two pathologists. Data were analyzed using SPSS software program version 26.

Results:

There were significant statistical association between cytological abnormalities on pap smear test and age of the patient (P-value of 0.01), with low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) result showed the highest mean age of 46.91 as well as significant association with a number of live birth and a number of pregnancies with significant P value (<0.001 and <0.001) in the same order. Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance were the most common cytological abnormality.

Conclusion:

Women should not delay their first screening pap test for more than 30 years of age since the mean age for LSIL (the most significant abnormality present in this study) was the age of 46. 91 ± 10.75. awareness about screening for cervical precancerous lesions should be increased especially among multiparous women and those more than 40 years of age.
The association between melatonin hormone and reproductive hormones in polycystic ovary syndrome: A case–control study
Authors: Edan Ban Jabir , Kadhim Zahid Mohammed-Ali
Published: May 2024

Background:

One of the common endocrine disorders is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with prevalence of about 5%–15% of women within reproductive age. It is related to androgen disturbance, obesity, and irregular menstrual cycle. Pineal gland secretes melatonin hormone, which is involved in the regulation of the circadian rhythm. Melatonin receptors in the ovary adjust sex steroid secretion. Furthermore, it is considered a strong antioxidant, which protects ovarian follicles during follicular maturation.

Objectives:

To evaluate the level of melatonin in patients with PCOS and its relation with reproductive hormones and anthropometric measures.

Materials and Methods:

A case-control study included 200 women in reproductive age (20–40 years), including 100 PCOS patients and 100 controls who appeared to be in generally good health. Anthropometric measurements were evaluated. Reproductive hormones and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) were evaluated using the mini VIDAS method. Human MT (Melatonin) ELISA Kit from Elabscience source (USA) was used for measuring melatonin levels.

Results:

Luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio, AMH, and melatonin were significantly higher in PCOS women, whereas FSH level was significantly lower in PCOS compared with controls. There was an adverse relationship between melatonin levels with thigh circumference, waist circumference, and waist/hip ratio (P < 0.05). There was a significant adverse correlation between melatonin and testosterone hormone in PCOS patients (P < 0.05). Melatonin level showed an AUC of 0.755 at a cutoff point of 20 ng/mL and more, giving a sensitivity (78%) and specificity (75%).

Conclusions:

Although PCOS women had higher serum melatonin concentrations, their effect on ovarian hormones is diminished. Melatonin had a connection with androgen, and melatonin supplements may improve metabolic dysfunction in PCOS patients.
Evaluation of lipid profile in patients with cherry angioma: A case–control study in Iraqi patients
Authors: Al-Hattab Mohammed K , Gahlool Ansaar H , Al-Kalidi Jinan H
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cherry angioma (CA) is a common lesion among adults and elderly people. Both CA and dyslipidemia have vital common areas, such as their effect on elderly people at a certain age and their interaction with the vascular system. Therefore, we have found it to be an interesting topic for our research to investigate the connection between CA and dyslipidemia.

Objectives:

The motivation of this project is to investigate the association between CA and dyslipidemia among a sample of Iraqi patients.

Materials and Methods:

A total number of 104 Iraqi people were selected (39 male and 65 female); 52 of them were affected with CA, and the other 52 were healthy controls. For the purpose of assessing lipid profile, we used Beckman Coulter/Olympus—AU480 Chemistry Analyser was used in measuring fasting serum lipid profile parameters, including triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (Tch), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C).

Results:

The results showed a significant difference between patients with CA and control subjects in TG, CHOL, and LDL. The mean levels of the TG, total CHOL, and LDL were significantly higher in cases with CA compared to a group of controls, in which the differences were significant for TG, total CHOL, and LDL (P-value = 0.000). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the mean level of HDL (P-value = 0.059). additionally, there was no significant difference in levels of lipid value regarding ages and sex distribution between patients with CA and controls (P-value > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Based on its outcomes, the study proposed that dyslipidemia could play a vital role in the pathogenesis of CA lesions. Hence, dyslipidemia treatments may represent an effective means for CA therapy.
Poor control of oxidative stress index is associated with increased DNA methylation in retinopathy patients of a sample from babylonian population
Authors: Al-Hassan Farah A , Al-Musawi Hawraa Sabah
Published: May 2024

Background:

Retinopathy is one of almost insidious advanced neuron-vascular complications of diabetes, oneof the most common complications that lead to permanent visual impairment in the middle-aged population.

Objectives:

The study investigated the association between poor oxidative stress index and DNA methylation.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 120 participants, of whom 40 were healthy, 40 patients with retinopathy, and 40 non-retinopathy diabetes patients (type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)). The total antioxidant, capacity (TAC) evaluated using Cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity method. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured using Erel method. Global DNA methylation has measured employing 5 mC% estimating using MethylFlash™ Methylated DNA Quantification Kit.

Results:

Current investigation indicated significant (P ≤ 0.05) accrue in TAC, ROSs, and oxidative stress index (OSI) in diabetic compared with controls. In addition, a significant (P ≤ 0.05) increase of ROSs and OSI were recorded in retinopathy compared with T2DM patients was reported. The analysis of global DNA methylation revealed that diabetic patients have a significantly (P ≤ 0.05) more 5 mC% as compared with healthy subjects. Also, the present study showed a significant rise in methylation in retinopathy compared as with T2DM patients. Regarding the correlation analysis, the current study conducted significantly (P < 0.05) positive association between DNA methylation and each of the ROSs and OSI. Also, a significant positive correlation was reported between DNA methylation and ROSs and OSI in retinopathy and T2DM.

Conclusion:

Global DNA methylation has an increased level in patients and could be engaged with emergence and progress of retinopathy in diabetic with poor control of oxidative stress and increased ROSs.
The age and residence impact on IgE serum level in patients with allergic asthma
Authors: Hameed Raghdah Maytham , Al-Hasnawy Huda Hadi , Abood Haidar Abdul Amir Najim
Published: May 2024

Background:

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) has a role in mediating allergic reactions and their powerful effector functions, but numerous factors influence its value.

Objective:

To find any difference in total and specific IgE serum levels at the different age groups and residences.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty-seven asthmatic children, including 57 males and 30 females with asthma aged between 1 and 16 years old, 32.2% living in rural and 67.8% living in urban, were collected at Kerbala Teaching Hospital for Children. All asthmatic children in this study were subjected to measuring total IgE level using AccuBind IgE ELISA kit, Human Chlamydia pneumoniae IgG using Cpn IgG ELISA kit, and Human C. pneumoniae IgE using Cpn IgE ELISA kit.

Results:

There was a significant positive linear correlation between age and total IgE level and a significant negative correlation between age and C. pneumoniae IgE in asthmatic children (0.255, P = 0.017, -0.233, P = 0.03, respectively). Further, there was a significant positive linear correlation between total IgE and C. pneumoniae IgE under age controlling (0.225, P = 0.019). In urban residents, the asthmatic children more than eleven years old had a low C. pneumonia IgE serum level (5.845 ± 1.821 ng/L) compared with asthmatic children who lived in rural areas (8.206 ± 2.793 ng/L). Depending on age groups, there was a significant difference (P = 0.047) in C. pneumonia IgE serum levels in asthmatic children who lived in urban areas.

Conclusion:

C. pneumonia-specific IgE decreased in early adulthood urban asthmatic children.
Association of anti-phospholipid antibodies and hepatitis B virus infection in Najaf Governorate
Authors: Kadhim Ameer Mohammed , Mubark Hawraa Ameer , Al-Mudhafar Dhefaf Hameed , Abdulmajeed Zainab Hayder
Published: May 2024

Background:

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease with multifactorial risk factors including genetic and environmental factors such as viral infection, and it can be diagnosed by the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (APLA) in the serum. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of the most prevalent viral infections in the world and has been connected to a number of autoimmune illnesses. Some studies suggested that HBV might be the cause of APLA production and APS development. No previous study was done in Iraq regarding the relationship between these two.

Objective:

To estimate the prevalence of APLA in HBV-infected individuals in Najaf.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was done in Najaf from September 2022 to March 2023, and it included 113 patients (70 were males, age range was 15–85 years) with HBV infection and without any history of APS. They were tested for Hepatitis B core (HBc) total and immunoglobulin M (IgM) Abs and then tested for APLA by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. The Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0 was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Only four patients were positive for HBc total and IgM the remaining 109 were positive for IgG only, 38 (33.63%) were positive for APLA, and the age group (41–50 years) with the highest rate of APLA positivity. Non-significant statistical difference was seen between APLA and gender or age. Acute HBV had higher titers of APLA.

Conclusion:

HBV may lead to the production of APLA in some patients without any other risk factors, especially in middle-aged patients.
Study the effect of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (UPA) and some biochemical parameters in Iraqi hemodialysis patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Al-Sudani Fatima Ali Essa , Al-Shammaa Nawal Mohammed Jawad
Published: May 2024

The most common cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and leading ultimately to hemodialysis (HD) is type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The current study aims to assess the role of serum urokinase plasminogen activator (UPA) levels among Iraqi hemodialysis patients with ESRD with type 2 diabetes. The study encompassed 50 patients aged 40–74 years (35 males and 15 females), admitted to the Iraqi dialysis center at Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Al-Hayat Center at Al-Karama Teaching Hospital, and Hamida Al-Misfah Dialysis Center in Imam Al-Kadhimin Medical City for the period from October 2022 to February 2023. Were diagnosed based on previous medical reports, and laboratory tests by a consultant nephrologist. UPA, Blood. Urea, Creatinine, fasting serum glucose (FSG), HbA1c, Insulin, HOMA-IR, and lipid profile levels were determined. The present study showed a significant increase in serum UPA levels in HD patients in ESRD with T2DM compared to control. In addition, there was an important negative correlation between UPA and Hb1AC, FSG, and a positive correlation with VLDL-C and TG in HD patients in ESRD with T2DM patients. This study demonstrates increased UPA serum levels in HD in ESRD with T2DM patients and associated with FSG, Hb1AC, TG, and VLDL this shows that it can be considered a good marker for the development of diabetes complications, the most important of which is diabetic kidney disease (DKD).