bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Optimal Model for Copy-Move Forgery Detection in Medical Images
Authors: Amiri Ehsan , Mosallanejad Ahmad , Sheikhahmadi Amir 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Digital devices can easily forge medical images. Copy-move forgery detection (CMFD) in medical image has led to abuses in areas where access to advanced medical devices is unavailable. Forgery of the copy-move image directly affects the doctor’s decision. The method discussed here is an optimal method for detecting medical image forgery.

Methods:
The proposed method is based on an evolutionary algorithm that can detect fake blocks well. In the first stage, the image is taken to the signal level with the help of a discrete cosine transform (DCT). It is then ready for segmentation by applying discrete wavelet transform (DWT). The low-low band of DWT, which has the most image properties, is divided into blocks. Each block is searched using the equilibrium optimization algorithm. The blocks are most likely to be selected, and the final image is generated.

Results:
The proposed method was evaluated based on three criteria of precision, recall, and F1 and obtained 90.07%, 92.34%, and 91.56%, respectively. It is superior to the methods studied on medical images.

Conclusions:
It concluded that our method for CMFD in the medical images was more accurate.
Type 2 diabetes and gut health - Narrative review
Authors: Lunghar Janeline , Banu A. Thahira 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACTThe increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is attributed to the rapid shift in our environment, particularly the modern lifestyle. Recent research has decoded the link between T2D and various chronic conditions with compromised gut health. Enhancing our understanding of gut health and actively maintaining a healthy gut can significantly impact overall well-being, including the management of T2D. Notably, recent key findings highlight the positive effects of incorporating probiotics, prebiotics (beneficial live organisms from diverse food sources), and increased fiber intake in promoting a beneficial balance of intestinal flora, thereby fortifying the gut. Research has demonstrated that probiotics, such as specific strains such asLactobacillusandBifidobacteriumspecies, play a crucial role in supporting gut health and preventing the onset of T2D. Conversely, a diet high in saturated fats and processed sugars has been identified as a contributor to poor gut health, leading to a condition known as gut dysbiosis. Moreover, studies indicate that an imbalanced gut is a contributing factor to insulin resistance in individuals with T2D. It is noteworthy that certain factors, such as the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and nonsteroidal medications, can significantly disrupt gut health and contribute to imbalances. This review emphasizes the importance of reinforcing gut health through the inclusion of specific probiotic strains and adopting a high-fiber, plant-based diet. The consumption of such a diet appears to be an effective and favorable strategy for improving intestinal microbiota and, consequently, overall health, with a specific focus on preventing T2D.
Case of hypertriglyceridemia-induced subacute pancreatitis and hypertriglyceridemia-triggered transverse sinus thrombosis in a recently diagnosed diabetic patient and the efficacy of management of hypertriglyceridemia with continuous insulin infusion
Authors: Amin Mona Ahmed , Mommtaz Mohamed , Al-Saraf Nashwa , Fathy Ahmed , Farouk Dina , Nageeb Ahmed , Sherif Rana , Ragheb Mina Adel 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT
A 28-year-old single female diagnosed with transverse sinus thrombosis; she was also discovered to be diabetic with severe hyperlipidemia. She presented by recurrent episodes of diffuse dull aching abdominal pain referred to the back; she was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis with markedly elevated triglyceride (TG) levels. She started medical treatment for hypertriglyceridemia with no improvement. She started four sessions of plasma exchanges with marked improvement of the general condition, abdominal pain and appetite, and TGs declined.While the patient was on plasma exchange she developed catheter related infection so it is stopped and soon triglycerides raised again with recurrence of the abdominal pain and we started insulin infusion with improvement of her condition
Relationship of hypertension with dietary intake of calcium, magnesium, Vitamin D and Vitamin E among adult males
Authors: Alhussain Maha H. , Alsehli Rawan Mohammed , Alshammari Ghedeir M. , Habib Syed Shahid 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Aims:
Hypertension remains a main cause of premature death worldwide. Micronutrients are crucial in the regulation of blood pressure, therefore, we aimed to examine the associations between calcium, magnesium, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E intakes and hypertension among adult males.

Settings and Design:
Community-based, descriptive study.

Materials and Methods:
The study included 450 men with a mean age of 46.79 ± 15.88. Anthropometric measurements and body composition were assessed. An automated arm digital sphygmomanometer was used to monitor the resting heart rate, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) values. Dietary intake including Ca, Mg, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E were assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The population sample was divided into two groups according to hypertension status as follows: hypertensive and normotensive groups.

Statistical Analysis Used:
The independent t-test was performed to assess the differences between the hypertensive and the normotensive groups.

Results:
The hypertensive participants were older and had a higher mean body mass index, fat %, SBP, DBP, pulse pressure and heart rate compared with nonhypertensive participants. Among micronutrient intake, hypertensive group had significantly higher Vitamin D intake than the normotensive group.

Conclusions:
This study found a significant association between Vitamin D intake, as assessed using FFQ, and hypertension, but not between Ca, Mg, or Vitamin E. To clarify the potential association between micronutrient intake and hypertension, more studies, and clinical trials should be conducted.
Telemental health screening and psychiatric diagnosis for COVID-19 recovered patients in post-COVID-19 outpatient care
Authors: Verma Anshu , Kaur Darpan , Singh Adarsh , Dere Shubhangi , Ghildiyal Rakesh 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a notable rise in telemental health (TMH) and telepsychiatry services. However, there is limited available literature addressing psychiatric disorders and mental health issues among individuals who have recovered from COVID-19.

Aims and Objectives:
To evaluate the characteristics of TMH screening, psychiatric diagnosis, and the care offered to individuals who have recovered from COVID-19.

Materials and Methods:
This retrospective record-based study focused on patients who had recuperated from COVID-19 and were discharged. Following their discharge, telephonic contact was established with these recovered individuals, subjecting them to a mental health screening using a 7-item post-COVID-19 TMH screening. Subsequently, they received telecounseling and were advised to attend follow-up sessions at the multidisciplinary post-COVID-19 outpatient department (OPD). Data from the post-COVID-19 TMH register and post-COVID-19 OPD register for June–August 2021 were scrutinized based on available records. Any incomplete data were excluded, and clearance from the Institutional Ethics Committee was obtained. The analysis of the data involved descriptive techniques.

Results:
Out of the 302 patients contacted via telephone, 38.80% exhibited a positive response on the TMH screening, with anxiety being the most prevalent symptom. Among them, 22 individuals (42.30%) sought care at the post-COVID-19 OPD, comprising 12 males (54.55%) and 10 females (45.45%), with 14 (63.64%) residing in rural areas and 8 (36.36%) in urban areas. The predominant diagnoses were anxiety disorders, and the frequently prescribed medications included escitalopram and clonazepam.

Conclusion:
The predominant TMH symptom observed was anxiety, with anxiety disorders being the most frequently encountered conditions in the post-COVID-19 OPD.
To explore the correlation between internet addiction among school-going adolescents aged 13–19 years and their internet utilization on diverse personal devices: A cross-sectional observational study
Authors: Jadhav Shraddha , Dase Rajesh , Marwale Arun V 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Over the past decade, there has been a significant surge in the emergence of a mental health issue known as internet addiction. This condition is characterized by an individual’s compulsive inclination to dedicate most of their time to the internet, often at the expense of their social and personal well-being.

Aim:
To assess the extent of internet addiction among adolescents aged 13–19 years who attend school and to investigate the relationship between internet addiction and the methods of internet utilization on personal devices.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among school-going adolescents aged 13–19 years in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. The study involved 602 students selected through stratified random sampling. The assessment tools utilized included an Internet Addiction Test (IAT), a self-reported questionnaire comprising 20 items designed specifically for adolescents. The tool’s content validity and reliability were established, and a pilot test was conducted before the main study.

Results:
Among the student participants, approximately 19.77% (119 students) exhibited complete control over their internet usage, whereas around 67.11% (404 students) experienced persistent issues related to internet use. Roughly, 13.12% (79 students) encountered significant problems due to their internet usage. Out of these 79 students dealing with internet addiction, 5.1% (4 students) utilized desktops, 81.0% (64 students) utilized laptops, 12.6% (10 students) used tablets, and 1.3% (1 student) used a cell phone for personal internet access. A statistically significant correlation was observed between the outcomes of the IAT and the method of internet usage (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:
About 13.12% of students experienced considerable issues attributed to their internet usage. The factor associated with the IAT was the method of accessing the internet.
Impact of Helicobacter pylori virulence on development of autoimmune thyroid diseases
Authors: Saqi Hussein Alaa aldeen , Nooruldeen Mohammed Yawoz , Al-kadhi Najdat Ali 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:

H. pylori infection has been linked in some controversial studies to the existence of extra-gastrointestinal disorders like autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD).

Objective:
The study aimed to investigate the impact of the H.pylori virulence factor on progression of autoimmune thyroid disease.

Materials and Methods:
The study carried out on 90 patients (male and female) with thyroid disorders, and 50 healthy individuals as a control group. Venous blood samples were drawn from all participants, serum obtained after centrifugation and kept in in a labeled Eppendorf tube then stored at -20°C till used in biochemical and immunological assays including: estimation of anti H.pylori IgG to investigate H.pylori infection and detection anti-cag-A IgG titer by ELISA method, while measurement of (T3), (T4), (TSH) and (ATPO) by (e601 cobas) automated immunoassay analyzer.

Results:
The results of the study recorded a significant increase in mean of TSH concentration (P < 0.01) in patients group particularly in hypothyroidism patients, and a significant increase recorded (P < 0.01) in patients according ATPO level in comparison to control group. On other hand the highest prevalence of H.pylori IgG positive (84%) occur in autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD) group followed by (63%) for non-AITD while (56%) occur in control group. The results also recorded a highly significant increase in titer of H.pylori IgG (P < 0.01) in patient group as compared to control group, the proportion of female was significantly higher in AITD group (75%), however, there was a significant increase (P < 0.01) in the level of anti-cag IgG in patients as compared to control group, The ratio of infection with H.pylori was greater in the Hashimoto’s thyroiditis group (85.2%) than in the Graves’ disease group (82.4%).

Conclusion:
our findings state that H. pylori by expressing Cag A may have an impact on the development of autoimmunity thyroiditis.
Assessment of some immunological markers in patients and vaccinated individuals with COVID-19 in Kirkuk city
Authors: Tariq Maha Jasim , Noraldeen Mohammed Yawoz , Al-Kadi Najdat Ali 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Infection with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) can trigger both innate and adaptive immune responses, resulting in large inflammatory reactions later in the disease. The initiation of immunological responses entails a complicated interaction between innate immune components, which quickly respond in a nonspecific manner, and specialized components of the immune system can recognize specific epitopes of antigens.

Objective:
The objective of this study was to assess some co-stimulating molecules in patients with COVID-19 (hospitalized and nonhospitalized) and vaccinated individuals compared with a control group in Kirkuk city.

Materials and Methods:
The immunological markers under study in which our methods tried to estimate them are CD28, CD80, and CD86. From 90 individuals of patients with COVID-19, vaccinated persons, and control group blood samples were collected and centrifuged to get the serum to carry out the immunological analysis. Through using nasopharyngeal swabs that were collected from non-hospitalized patients (patients out of the hospital), coronavirus infection was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Additionally, PCR tests were run on the control group to make sure they were not infected with COVID-19.

Results:
For the vaccinated group especially in comparison to COVID-19 patients, the revealed significant differences in the immunological markers among tested groups with respect to the CD28 test with (P value > 0.0001) and CD80 test with (P value > 0.0001), as well as the CD86 test appears to show a significant difference with (P value > 0.0001).

Conclusion:
This study revealed that, compared to patients with COVID-19 who were not given the vaccine, the vaccine had a role on those who received it and significantly increased some immunological markers..
Role of glutathione reduction in causation severe complications of coronavirus disease-2019
Authors: Mohammed Sunober Abdalsamad , Tawfeeq Asal Aziz , Noraldin Muhammad Yawoz 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Coronavirus is a pandemic disease that emerged in China in 2019 with severe respiratory syndromes in conjunction with organ failure and advanced mortality rate where it has attracted worldwide interest. The pathogenicity of the virus increases by exacerbated oxidative stress that leads to the accumulation of free radicals in the body. Frequently, those free radicals are neutralized by antioxidants, especially glutathione.

Objective:
Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the role of glutathione in the pathogenicity of the virus alongside certain blood parameters.

Materials and Methods:
In this study, 90 participants were examined for glutathione levels using a specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit in addition to the levels of hemoglobin (Hb). Ferritin and vitamin D3 were also measured as they are linked to the level of glutathione in coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19).

Result:
The lowest level of Reduced glutathione in COVID-19 hospitalized patients especially male patients alongside with vitamin D3 and Hb levels. Whereas a significant (P < 0.05) increase in ferritin level was recorded. However, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in ferritin level was recorded.

Conclusion:
This study showed a significant relationship between glutathione level and disease severity in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, where the depletion of the glutathione level may have a central role in COVID-19 severity and pathophysiology.
The correlation between iron deficiency anemia and hypothyroidism during pregnancy
Authors: Taher Sarah Mouaffaq , Ghalib Ayla Khedher 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Pregnant women are often iron deficient, and this has adverse effects on thyroid metabolism. Impaired maternal thyroid function in pregnancy may cause neurodevelopmental delay in the offspring.

Objectives:
To investigate if maternal iron status is a determinant of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and/or free T4 (FT4) concentrations during pregnancy.

Materials and Methods:
A case–control study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Azadi Teaching Hospital, Kirkuk, Iraq over a period of 7 months from February 1st to September 1st, 2020. It included 80 pregnant women with singleton pregnancy in the obstetric outpatient clinic and labor room. Verbal consent was obtained. They were divided into: (1) case group: it included 40 cases of iron deficiency (ID) anemic pregnant women with hemoglobin level of 105 g/L and less in the second and third trimesters. (2) Control group: It included 40 cases of healthy pregnant women. Estimation of gestational age was done depending on the date of last menstrual cycle, and/or early ultrasound scan.

Results:
In this study, 80 pregnant women in their second and third trimesters participated. Fifty percent were anemic, had elevated serum soluble transferrin receptor and negative body iron stores, 35% had a free T4 less than 7.5 pmol/L, and 47.5% had a TSH more than 4.0 mIU/L. 47.5% who were hypothyroid had negative body iron store. Serum ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor, and body iron stores were highly significant predictors of thyroid status.

Conclusions:
Poor maternal iron status predicts both higher TSH and lower free T4 concentrations during pregnancy. On the basis of results, we had there may be a correlation between ID anemia of pregnant women and their thyroid status.
An overview of the prevalence of BCG lymphadenitis among infants registered in consulter clinic for chest and respiratory diseases, Kirkuk, Iraq
Authors: Tahir Suhaila Shamsalden , Rasheed Laylani Amal Adnan , Hussein Jihad Abbas 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) lymphadenitis is one of the uncommon complications of BCG vaccination among infants, as it may lead to many serious problems as fistula or disseminated infection.

Objectives:
The study aimed to show the distribution of BCG lymphadenitis among vaccinated infants along the past 5 years who were diagnosed and managed in tuberculosis (TB) center.

Materials and Methods:
An observational study was carried out including 22 infants of both sexes who had BCG lymphadenitis. The diagnosis was made either clinically or it used polymerase chain reaction to examine the suppression, and biopsy was applied for indicated cases. All cases were managed by anti-TB and no death was reported.

Results:
The results showed male predominance ratio of 2:1. Regarding the latent period between the time of vaccination and appearance of the symptoms; the highest number was between 1 and 2 months (45.5%) whereas the lowest was in the group of 7–9 months following vaccination (4.5%). The results also found high incidence rate of BCG lymphadenitis (1.5%), among the infants. The high occurrence of TB lymphadenitis in the study may indicate many reasons, the most frequent being the dose of the vaccine and the wrong technique.

Conclusion:
It was concluded from results of the study that it is necessary to follow-up infants, and check for the appearance of lymphadenitis and to inform parents to present the baby to the TB center as soon as possible if any complications were observed.
On-demand versus prophylactic therapy with factor VIII concentrate in patients with hemophilia A: Differences in efficacy and quality of life: A multicenter study
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed Shukr , Hussein Wrya Omar , Saber Paiman Ali Ihsan , Tawfeeq Nareen 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Hemophilia A and B are inherited bleeding disorders in factors VIII and IX.

Objectives:
The study was to compare between on-demand and prophylactic treatment by factor VIII (FVIII) concentrate of hemophilic patients in Kirkuk, Sulaymaniyah, and Erbil hemophilia centers.

Materials and Methods:
The study included 45 patients with moderate and severe hemophilia treated with FVIII concentrate in three Iraqi centers (Kirkuk Oncology Center [n: 15], Hiwa Hospital in Sulaimaniya [n: 18], and Nanakali Hospital in Erbil city [n: 12]) and compared two different protocols in prophylactic therapy with FVIII concentrate in 2016 and on-demand treatment with FVIII concentrate in 2018 on the same patients. Comparisons included the number of vials used in two procedures and patient visits to our centers.

Results:
The survey found that hemophilia patients at Kirkuk Oncology Center are older than those in Sulaimaniya and Erbil. The average number of vials of FVIII concentrate used to treat hemophilia on prophylaxis was 73.58/year and 6.13/month, which was substantially less than in on demand (P < 0.001). The study found that the average number of FVIII concentrate vials used in on-demand hemophilia therapy at Hiwa Hospital was 79.4 vail/year and 6.62 vail/month, compared to 119.7 vail/year and 9.97 vail/month in prophylaxis (P < 0.001). The study also found that the average number of vials used in hemophilia therapy at Kirkuk Oncology Center and Nanakali Hospital in Erbil was lower than in other hospitals (P < 0.001). The study demonstrated that all patients in the on-demand hemophilia treatment program were dissatisfied, but their views improved after treatment with FVIII concentrate in prophylaxis protocol.

Conclusions:
We find that prophylactic administration of FVIII concentrate to hemophilia patients is superior than on-demand administration. We urge that future studies improve our results with larger patient groups and clinics in all governorates of Iraq.
Molecular detection of Entamoeba gingivalis among periodontitis and gingivitis patients by singleplex polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Yassin Mays Mahmood , Ali Abeer Abbas , Tawfeeq Asal Aziz 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Periodontal disease is classically characterized by progressive destruction of the soft and hard tissues of the periodontal complex, mediated by an interplay between dysbiotic microbial communities and aberrant immune responses within gingival and periodontal tissues. It is being recorded as public health problems.

Objective:
The aim of study is to detect Entamoeba gingivalis parasite in the oral cavity of patients with periodontitis and gingivitis by using molecular technique with singleplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Materials and Methods:
A total of 100 patients with periodontal diseases (periodontitis and gingivitis) were enrolled in the current study. Samples of dental plaque were collected from each patient and stained with Giemsa stain and studied under a microscope. Six samples were selected to be examined by using singleplex PCR technique for the detection of 18S-the small subunit of ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rDNA) gene with 203 bp and comparing the results.

Results:
This result showed a high significant prevalence of E. gingivalis in dental plaque samples in patients with periodontitis and gingivitis. About 46 (46%) samples were positive by microscope examination. In comparison, six positive samples (3 men and 3 women) were selected for parasitic investigation by singleplex PCR and the results of PCR with specific primers designed for the detection of 18S SSU rDNA gene of (203 bp) showed positive results for the six samples.

Conclusion:
It was concluded that E. gingivalis had a prevalence among male patients than female patients. In addition, singleplex PCR is the technique of choice for the detection of the target sequence of DNA.