bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Isolated Posterior Element Spinal Tuberculosis, Its Management, and Our Experience with Novel Technique of Flipped Repositioning Laminoplasty: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kumar Sumit , Sreenivasan Ravi , Sareen Atul , Gowda Manu B. B. , Patralekh Mohit Kumar , Boruah Tankeswar , Kumar Narendra 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Isolated posterior element tuberculosis is atypical and rare with reported incidence of <5% of total cases of spinal tuberculosis. Laminectomy is the classical workhorse for surgical management of these lesions. In this study, we describe the clinical features, diagnosis, and management of isolated posterior element tuberculosis with emphasis on a novel technique of flipped repositioning laminoplasty.

Methodology:
In this retrospective and follow-up study, clinical and radiological records of confirmed cases of isolated posterior element tuberculosis were taken from the hospital database from January 2015 to January 2020 and patients with minimum 18 months of follow-up at the time of study were included. Patients’ chief complaints at presentation, level of vertebral involvement, part of vertebra involved, presence of posterior epidural abscess, neurology at the time of presentation and treatment given were noted.

Results:
Records of 25 patients were reviewed. The median age of presentation was 28 (8–48) years. The most common presenting complaints were backache and weakness of both lower limbs. Thoracic spine was most commonly involved, that is in 19 patients. Ten patients were managed on antitubercular therapy alone and recovered fully. Fifteen patients required decompressive surgery in which flipped repositioning laminoplasty was done in 11 patients and laminectomy was done in four patients.

Conclusion:
Atypical presentation of isolated posterior spinal element tuberculosis and lack of findings on radiographs in early stages often causes delay in diagnosis. Flipped repositioning laminoplasty is an effective technique of decompression that provides adequate exposure and additional stability postoperatively.
Functional Outcome Assessment in Neglected Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Dislocation Managed by Dynamic Suzuki Frame External Fixator
Authors: Kothiyal Pranav , Vij Kunal , Gautam Pritish , Ahuja Yogesh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aims and Objectives:
This research article evaluates the functional outcomes of patients treated for neglected proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint dislocations using the dynamic Suzuki frame external fixator.

Material and Methods:
Patients with neglected interphalangeal joint dislocations were managed initially by distractor application followed by dynamic suzuki frome application and were then followed up for improvement in hand functions. The study employs the Visual Analog Scale score, range of motion at interphalangeal joints, and the Sollerman Hand Function Test to quantify hand functionality pre and post treatment.

Results:
Indicate significant improvements in hand function and patient satisfaction, underscoring the efficacy of this intervention for neglected PIP joint dislocations.

Conclusion:
Dynamic suzuki frame can be considered as a effective and promising option for management of neglected Interphalangeal joint dislocations.
Rescuing the Knee: Arthroscopic Extraction of a Long-neglected Glass Fragment
Authors: Gulia Anil Kumar , Kumar Sanjeev , Sharma Mohit , Mittal Prabhat , Kumar Rakesh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The knee joint frequently encounters penetrating injuries and has ample space to harbor foreign objects. This case study delves into the experience of a 22-year-old male who suffered persistent pain due to a neglected foreign object in his knee joint. After its arthroscopic removal, a complete resolution of symptoms was achieved. It highlights the importance of prompt arthroscopic intervention for optimal outcomes. Arthroscopy stands as the favored minimally invasive method for extracting foreign bodies from the knee joint, especially from its deeper and less accessible regions.
Association of Vitamin D Levels and Clothing Pattern in Women of Reproductive Age Group Having Chronic Back Pain
Authors: Saraswat Shubham , Rastogi Anuj , Mohammad Farid , Pawaskar Rachhanaa 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Chronic low back pain has been one of the most common musculoskeletal problems from the public health perspective owing to its high impact on disability and loss of productive years. The usefulness of Vitamin D in musculoskeletal health is widely acknowledged. The relationship between chronic low back pain in women and Vitamin D status becomes an important issue in context with clothing patterns owing to various cultural, social and religious factors. While there are many studies investigating the Vitamin D status in women with low back pain yet there are limited or almost no studies evaluating this problem in context with their clothing pattern. Hence, the present study was planned to determine the association between Vitamin D levels and clothing habits in women of reproductive age group having chronic back pain without any apparent clinico-radiological pathology.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was done from September 2022 to March 2024 following ethical clearance from the institutional ethics committee. Two hundred and fifty-one women in the reproductive age group were included in the study after taking informed consent. Demographic and other details related to their diet, clothing pattern, and obstetric history were taken using a pretested questionnaire. Serum 25 (OH) Vitamin D level estimation was done. Data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0; appropriate tests were applied and the following results were drawn.

Results:
Mean age of the 251 participants who complained of chronic back pain was 33.16 ± 10.27 years. The duration of pain ranged from 6 to 36 months. Majority of patients (n = 201; 80.1%) had duration of pain <12 months followed by 12–18 months (n = 44; 17.5%), 18–24 months and >24 months (n = 3; 1.2% each), respectively. The mean duration of pain was 9.97 ± 4.60 months. Almost half (n = 124; 49.4%) of the study participants preferred to use veil, while the rest half (n = 127; 50.6%) did not. Vitamin D levels ranged from 7.2 to 99.2 ng/mL with a mean of 26.31 ± 18.75 ng/mL. The prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency and sufficiency was 46.2%, 21.9% and 31.9% respectively. No statistically significant association was found between the duration of pain and Vitamin D status (P = 0.347). Furthermore, factors such as age, gravida status and place of residence (urban/rural) were not found to be associated with Vitamin D deficiency. Statistically, there was a significant difference in Vitamin D status between veiled and unveiled women (P = 0.001).

Conclusions:
Mean Vitamin D levels did not show any significant association with age, place of residence, gravid status and duration of pain. However, veiled women had a significantly higher prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency compared to nonveiled women.
Clinical Outcome of High Tibial Osteotomy by Hemicallotasis Using a Dynamic Axial Fixator on 52 Knees
Authors: Gupta Anand Kumar , Mukherjee Debojyoti , Kumar Sanjay 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the major cause of osteoarticular disability in the elderly population. The knee is the most commonly affected joint, and replacement surgeries are the main modality of treatment in advanced cases. Whereas in unicompartmental disease especially in relatively younger age groups, joint preserving surgeries are preferred. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the functional outcome of graduated open wedge high tibial osteotomy (HTO) in patients with OA of the knee with <65 years of age.

Methods:
HTO through medial open wedge technique was done in 48 patients (52 knees) and stabilized by limb reconstruction system. Distraction was started at the 7th day at the rate of 1 mm/day and continued till proper alignment was achieved. The clinical outcome of patients has been calculated on the basis of anatomical correction and functional improvement. Anatomical correction was determined on the basis of a radiological criterion (Hip-Knee-Ankle [HKA] angle) on the scanogram. Whereas, the functional outcomes of the patients were measured on Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities OA Index (WOMAC) score scales.

Results:
The valgus correction in varus knees of patients were achieved by gain in mean HKA angle (increase by 11° ±0.9°). The desired range of correction in HKA angle was seen at the final follow-up of 41 out of 52 knees (78.8%). There was undercorrection in 4 knees (7.7%) and overcorrection in 7 (13.4%) knees. All the functional scores showed significant improvement in the postoperative scores. There was a positive correlation between the HKA angle with OKS and WOMAC Score. The most common complication was superficial pin tract infection, which was seen in 7 (13.4%) patients.

Conclusions:
HTO by unilateral external fixator produces good clinical outcomes and also has its added benefits. It is less invasive, no internal hardware present, and safer in terms of neurovascular complications.
Study Imbalance of Some Cytokines and Vaginitis Agents in Women with Recurrent Abortion Women
Authors: Al-sallami Muna Hamid , Al-Salihi Samara Abd Al-Hameed Ouda , Darweesh Mayyada Farhan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Cytokines play a key role in the success or failure of pregnancy. On the other hand, a plethora of bacterial and viral infectious agents have been associated with an increased risk of recurrent abortion (RA).

Objective:
This search focused on the association between cytokines imbalance and vaginitis infection with RA cases.

Materials and Methods:
A case-control study was designed on 65 aborted women attending AL-Hakeem Hospital in AL-Najaf province suffering from at least two or more aborting cases and 40 healthy delivery women as the control group. Two milliliters of blood samples were collected from all participants to measure interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-23 (IL-23), and interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). High vaginal swabs were taken from all patients, cultured on differential media for 24 h at 37°C, and then positive bacterial growth re-culturing to obtain a pure single colony.

Results:
The results showed that the mean age of aborted women was 29.8 vs 27.4 years, and 33% have a positive family history; according to bacterial infection, the results found that positive bacterial growth appeared in 23 (35.3%) of high vaginal swabs (HVSs), while 42 (64.7%) gave negative results. The prevalence of bacteria was as follows: E. coli was isolated from 8/23 (34.8%) patients, followed by P. aeruginosa from 6/23 (26.0%). The results confirmed that IL-17 and IL-23 were higher in aborted women (126.4 ± 34.8, 84.9 ± 23.7 pg/ml) compared to delivered women (37.5 ± 11.2, 26.8 ± 9.6 pg/ml). Also, infected women had highly elevated levels of both cytokines (180.2 ± 28.5, 104.7 ± 43.4 pg/ml) compared to non-infected women (72.8 ± 24.9, 67.3 ± 18.5 pg/ml), while IL-10 decreased in aborted women compared to healthy women.

Conclusion:
Cytokines imbalance leads to impaired state of pregnancy, and there is a highly significant relationship between IL-17, IL-23, and IL-10 levels with abortion, especially in women who suffer from bacterial vaginitis
Forkhead Box Protein-3 Gene Expression of Purified Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Treated with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus-Somatic Antigens and Hepatitis B Virus Vaccine
Authors: Hadi Entidhar A. , Al-Saadi Mohammad A. K. , Madlum Kaiser N. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Optimal hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine efficacy linked to producing systemic and mucosal antibodies and cellular immunological memory requires a complete set of immunological responses. Numerous variables affect how strong the immunological response is important variables include the vaccine’s kind and any additional adjuvants, which can dramatically enhance antigen presentation and cell activation.

Objectives:
This study aimed to illustrate the purified human peripheral blood mononuclear cells’ immunological response against somatic antigens of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and to study the immunodulatory effect of HBV antigens on this immune response represented by gene expression of forkhead box protein-3 (FOXP3) as a regulatory gene for immune cells.

Materials and Methods:
Case‐control research was conducted on 75 peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) samples. This work involved five experimental groups each group involving 15 samples. Group I involves separated PBMCs (1 × 106 cells/mL) alone as a control; Group II involves PBMCs stimulated with killed somatic MRSA antigen; Group III of PBMCs were stimulated with HBV vaccine only; Group IV involves PBMCs pretreated with HBV vaccine for 48 hr, and then with killed somatic MRSA antigen. Group V involves PBMCs stimulated with mixed of killed somatic MRSA antigen and HBV vaccine. The immune response against MRSA somatic antigens was assessed by the genetic parameter was done to detect the level of FOXP3 mRNA gene expression by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results:
The results of relative gene expression in the (P < 0.05) FOXP3 gene showed that the mean concentration of FOXP3 gene expression level was significantly increased in Group II, Group III, Group IV, and Group V, respectively, as compared to Group I.

Conclusion:
MRSA-somatic antigens and HBV vaccine are significantly increased the regulatory FOXP3 gene expression as an indicator for increasing the immune response.
Long Coronavirus Disease Symptoms and their Association with Different Risk Factors
Authors: Jasim Rasha A. F. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Although there are some studies trying to detect various long or post coronavirus disease (COVID-19) symptoms and some risk factors, long COVID-19 symptoms and their association with some possible risk factors such as age, sex, blood group, and oxygen level are still not well understood and required more studies worldwide.

Objective:
Therefore, this study included 206 patients. My questionary has different questions for the participants such as the type of symptoms they had post COVID-19 infection, to determine the most prevalence long symptoms.

Materials and Methods:
Moreover, to determine the association of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 with some risk factors, the questionnaire included questions about the participant’s age, gender, blood group, and oxygen rate during the infection.

Results:
My results showed that fatigue and muscle pain are the most prevalent long or post COVID-19 symptoms followed by forgetfulness and depression, chest pain and cough, loss of smell and taste, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Also the results found that female patents, and persons with age from 19 to 29, as well as positive Rh blood group except AB+ are more susceptible to long symptoms. Moreover, the results showed that there is an association between oxygen rate reduction and the long COVID-19 symptoms.

Conclusion:
Some corona virus patients develop post disease symptoms, and it looks like that variable factors influence that. So understanding the correlation between appearance of the long COVID-symptoms and these the risk factors presents valuable insights, the conclusions warrant justification through larger clinical trials.
The Role of Visfatin, Leptin, and IL-18 in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Patients
Authors: Rashed Sukayna H. , Hadi Eman A. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Several local studies revealed there is a rising occurrence of polycystic ovarian syndrome in the city of Mosul at different ages, even among unmarried females.

Objectives:
The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of body mass index (BMI) on a range of biochemical markers among PCOS patients and healthy women at Mosul women's clinics and hospitals.

Materials and Methods:
A total of 26 non-obese women with PCOS who have BMIs ≤ 25 kg/m2, along with 34 obese women with PCOS symptoms were enrolled in this study. Patients with and without IR in PCOS were also classified. Insulin resistance was measured with the help of the homeostatic model index (HOMA-IR). Blood samples were collected during the second and third days of the menstrual cycle. The following biochemical variables were also evaluated: fasting blood sugar, fasting insulin, insulin resistance, leptin, visfatin, and IL-18.

Results:
The results found that there were 27 cases of PCOS without insulin resistance (HOMA-IR< 2.69) and 33 cases with insulin resistance (HOMA-IR≥2.69). In all the groups included in this study, the findings were statistically evaluated to determine a correlation coefficient between the variables that were assessed with each other and their correlation with the development of the disease condition and the possibility of employing them as a diagnostic indicator. Patients with PCOS had significantly elevated serum IL-18 and visfatin levels but normal leptin concentrations.

Conclusion:
The study suggests that leptin acts locally in the follicle and that visfatin may play a role in most cases. Insulin resistance can be found in this particular group of patients. However, for the time being, it is unclear if it will be recognized as a true adipocytokine associated with the pathophysiology of PCOS. In PCOS women, elevated levels of IL-18 were associated with insulin resistance and BMI.
The Antimicrobial Effects of Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid)/Xylitol Nanoparticles on Microorganisms Causing Dental Caries (In Vitro Study)
Authors: Ibrahim Ghada Abdul Salam , AL-Rubaee Eaman Ali , Abbas Maha Jamal 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Many people all around the world suffer from tooth decay, a chronic infectious disease that can lead to tooth loss. Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans are typical microorganisms involved in the caries process. Nanotechnology is one of the most exciting new developments in dentistry and can be used in the prevention of tooth. Xylitol’s antimicrobial action can be enhanced by loading it onto poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid, or PLGA) nanoparticles.

Objective:
The purpose of study this is to evaluate the effectiveness of PLGA/xylitol nanoparticles as an antimicrobial agent on microorganisms causing dental caries.

Materials and Methods:
Samples from pure isolates of the bacteria and candida were kept in nutrient agar in a fridge until needed for the investigation. The antimicrobial activity of PLGA/xylitol nanoparticles produced using solvent evaporation was evaluated. Using the agar well diffusion method, we evaluated the sensitivity of S. mutans and C. albicans to various concentrations of nanoparticles with that of a positive control [chlorhexidine (CHX) 0.2%] and a negative control (de-ionized water). The zone of inhibition is measured across the diameter of each well. A serial dilution method was used to establish the minimum inhibitory concentration of nanoparticles against S. mutans and C. albicans and then determined minimum bactericidal concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration.

Results:
The results demonstrated the effectiveness of PLGA/xylitol nanoparticles in preventing bacterial and fungal development. As the concentration of nanoparticles increased, the diameter of zones of inhibition against S. mutans and C. albicans grew. Mean values of inhibition zones for S. mutans at 7.5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% were greater than CHX 0.2%. Nonetheless, for Candida, the mean values of inhibitory zones are still lower than CHX 0.2% at all concentrations with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
PLGA/xylitol nanoparticles are effective in preventing the growth of the microorganisms responsible for tooth caries. Although it is effective against S. mutans, its impact on C. albicans is much lower. The synergistic action of xylitol and PLGA nanoparticles could be responsible for this antimicrobial activity. This treatment could be considered as a way of preventing dental caries.
A Brief Epidemiologic Review of Psoriasis
Authors: Mahmood Nagham Shaheed , Omran Rabab , Abdulla Anwar A. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Psoriasis is an intricate, long-lasting, immune-mediated inflammatory skin condition that has a genetic origin. The body is affected to varying degrees; it can affect almost the entire body or just a few isolated red, scaly plaques. Psoriatic lesions may remain unchanged for years, growing, decreasing, and regressing over time. As the patient ages, the condition could develop worse or “wax and wane” in intensity. Indeed, examples of primary skin lesions are pustules, macules, papules, and plaques. Psoriasis, however, tends to affect more than just the skin and nails; it can cause inflammatory arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, patients’ symptoms may vary greatly from one another. Skin appearances can manifest at any age and can be either monomorphic or polymorphic. Furthermore, numerous emotionally charged, stressful physiological and psychological events, systemic infections, and environmental factors are associated with the beginning and worsening of the condition. The underlying patho-mechanisms involve complex interactions between the innate and adaptive immune systems. T cells interact with dendritic cells, macrophages, and keratinocytes, which their secreted cytokines can mediate. Biologics targeting tumor necrosis factor, interleukin IL-23, and IL-17 have been developed and approved for treating psoriasis in the past decade. These biologics have dramatically changed the treatment and management of psoriasis.
The Role of Ubiquitin-Like Interferon (IFN)-Stimulated 15 and IFN Gamma Genes Polymorphism with the Severity and Serum Biochemical Markers in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Hosseien Khadijah Gatfan , Tahmasebi Parisa , Hashim Hayder Obayes , Shakir Alaa Tareq , Moghadam Zahra Bozorgi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
The ubiquitin-like interferon-stimulated 15 (ISG15) gene belongs to the group of “interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs).” These ISGs are powerful and rapid type 1 interferon (IFN)-stimulated response proteins that suppress viral replication. IFN-gamma (IFN-γ) is a kind of cytokine that plays a significant role in both the induction and regulation of a wide variety of immune responses.

Objectives:
This study examined the relationships between rs1921 and rs1861494 single nucleotide polymorphisms with the manifestation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms in patients and the status of biochemical markers in previously diagnosed cases.

Materials and Methods:
A total of 100 blood samples were collected from COVID-19 patients in different cities in Iraq and tested for hematological parameters, including complete blood count, as well as biochemical markers, such as D-dimer, ferritin, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Additionally, the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique was used to analyze the genotyping of rs1921 and rs1861494 polymorphisms.

Results:
The results show that different rs1921 genotypes have significant associations with hemoglobin levels, white blood cell counts, basophil counts, and loss of smell. In contrast, there were no significant differences in red blood cell counts, monocyte counts, lymphocyte counts, platelet counts, CRP levels, D-dimer levels, ferritin levels, fever duration, or taste loss. Furthermore, rs1861494 genotypes revealed no significant differences in any of the patients’ parameters.

Conclusion:
Our results indicate that rs1921 is more correlated with COVID-19 patients’ parameters than rs1861494, suggesting the need for further investigation to enhance understanding.