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MiR-155 Expression by Real-Time PCR as a New Tool to Diagnose Prostate Cancer as an Alternative to the Traditional ELISA Assay: Hiba Adil Kadhim, Basma Talib Al-Sudani and Hadeel Saeed Hadi
No full textProstate cancer is a common malignancy in men, and early detection is essential for effective treatment. While PSA is the most used biomarker, its limitations call for better diagnostic tools. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic potential of miR-155 expression using real-time PCR as an alternative to traditional ELISA-based markers such as PSA, TPS, and CEA. Blood samples were collected from 80 prostate cancer patients and 80 healthy controls at Al-Andalus Specialist Hospital. Serum miR-155 and blood PSA mRNA levels were measured using real-time PCR. Additionally, ELISA assays were used to assess PSA, TPS, and CEA levels. The expression of miR-155 and PSA mRNA was significantly higher in patients than in controls (3.8-fold and 1.7-fold, respectively; p < 0.0001). MiR-155 showed an AUC of 97% for sensitivity and specificity, outperforming PSA mRNA (AUC 89%). ELISA results also indicated elevated levels of PSA, TPS, and CEA in patients, but miR-155 was the most reliable biomarker. MiR-155 demonstrated superior diagnostic performance compared to traditional markers due to its high sensitivity, specificity, and cost-effectiveness, suggesting its potential as a powerful and practical tool for prostate cancer detection
Assessment of Major Risk Factors for Hepatitis B and C among Patients in Wasit Governorate, Iraq
No full textHepatitis B virus and Hepatitis C virus remain significant public health issues worldwide, especially in developing countries like Iraq, where awareness and access to healthcare are limited. These infections often progress silently, increasing the risk of late diagnosis and further transmission. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of HBV and HCV among patients in Wasit Governorate, Iraq. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted between December 2024 and April 2025 across six major hospitals in Wasit. Patients with confirmed HBV or HCV infection were included. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that covered demographic information, clinical features, and behavioral risk exposures. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v29. Hepatitis B, C virus was found to be more prevalent than HCV among the participants. Most cases were among young adults aged 20–29 years, with a higher proportion of males, married individuals, and those with low socioeconomic status. Common risk factors included sharing personal hygiene tools (e.g., nail clippers, towels), unprotected sexual activity, and traditional practices like cupping. Many participants reported mild or no symptoms at onset, which contributed to delayed diagnosis. No significant associations were found between most socio-demographic variables and the type of hepatitis, except for a few behavioral practices. The study highlights the silent nature of hepatitis B and C infections and the need for improved public health awareness. Targeted interventions focusing on hygiene education, safe sexual practices, and the regulation of traditional healing methods are essential to reduce the spread of HBV and HCV in Wasit Governorate.
Radiological and Clinical Evaluation of Lung Involvement in Iraqi Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
No full textIt is common for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to affect the lungs, which can lead to moderate respiratory symptoms or severe restrictive lung disease. Pulmonary complications such as shrinking lung syndrome (SLS) are uncommon but significant from a clinical perspective. This study set out to answer several questions regarding SLE in Iraqi patients, including how common respiratory symptoms are, how often impaired pulmonary functioning, and what clinical and serological factors are associated with SLS in Baghdad Teaching Hospital in Baghdad, Iraq, was the site of the 2025 cross-sectional descriptive study. Eligible participants were adult patients who fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) classification criteria for SLE. We collected demographic data, recorded clinical symptoms, and documented serologic markers. A chest X-ray or high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) was ordered for all patients in addition to the pulmonary function tests (PFTs). Dyspnea, restricted lung physiology (Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) < 80% expected), and the absence of interstitial lung disease on x-rays were the diagnostic criteria for SLS. Patients exhibiting symptoms and radiographic interstitial alterations but no restrictive physiology served as controls. Of the 104 patients with SLE surveyed, 62 (59.6%) had respiratory symptoms, while 65 (65.4% of the total) had normal pulmonary function with abnormalities. The results showed that 9 patients had SLS (8.7). In a multivariate analysis where the length of the disease was controlled, a history of pleuritis, high American College of Rheumatology (ACR) clinical score, and seropositivity of anti-RNP antibodies were significantly associated with SLS. Longer illness duration, anti-RNP positive, and a history of serositivity were the independent predictors of SLS (OR = 1.18; 95% CI: 1.01132; p = 0.04). SLE patients from Iraq are more likely to experience respiratory symptoms, abnormal lung functions, and shrinking lung syndrome. When dealing with patients who have a history of pleuritis or who test positive for anti-RNP antibodies, clinicians should maintain a high suspicion for SLS. Timely diagnosis and treatment can lead to improved clinical outcomes
Amplitude of Accommodation and Its Relationship with Refractive Errors
No full textPresbyopia, the common condition of age-related vision condition which leads to difficulty in focusing on nearby objects because of alterations in the lenses of eyes. Its effect differs from emmetropic to hypermetropic persons.The present study aimed to compare between patients with fluctuating eyes and patients with fluctuating eyes when reaching (40) years of age. In this descriptive study, 80 persons with presbyopia whose ages were >35 years were enrolled. From each participant, demographic data were obtained including sex, age, occupations, educational levels as well as medical history and results of eye examination. For clinical examinations we used Snellen charts, retinoscopy, trial cases, auto-refractor as well as proximal charts for data collection. In the present study, we focused on the visual acuity variation and requirement through various demographics. In addition we focused on sex, age with the dynamic of accommodative amplitudes in relations to different types of refractions. Data obtained from (80) participants showed an evenly distribution of males and females, with a remarkable decline in accommodative amplitudes when age increased, and this decline was predominantly significant in the oldest group (70-79) years, who exhibited the lowest amplitude level. Moreover, our study investigated the association between accommodative amplitudes and refraction type and showed that emmetropia mostly happens at the lowest amplitudes, while myopia and hypermetropia were more predominant at the highest amplitudes. The main finding in the study was the direct relationship between declined accommodative amplitudes and increased dependence on near vision corrections, as shown by the highest diopter additions necessary for individuals with diminished amplitudes. This study’s results demonstrated the ages and refractive trait’s effects on accommodative capabilities and consequent needs for tailored corrective strategy.
Phenotypic and Molecular Evaluation of Klebsiella pneumoniae in Traumatic Wounds: Prevalence, Antibiotic Resistance, and Risk Factors
No full textKlebsiella pneumoniae is a significant pathogen responsible for wound infections, particularly in traumatic injuries like crushing and laceration wounds. To determine the prevalence, antibiotic resistance patterns, and associated risk factors of K. pneumoniae infection in crushing and laceration wounds. A total of 166 samples; (95) samples from crush wounds and (71) samples from lacerations. Microbial isolation and antibiotic susceptibility testing, along with genetic analyses for (aph (3\u27)-Ia and aac(3)-II) genes were performed to K. pneumoniae and its resistance patterns. Demographics, clinical details, and risk factors were documented for all patients. A total of 166 bacterial isolates were collected from patients; forty-nine isolates were K. pneumoniae (29.5%). The prevalence of crush wound samples was higher (37%) than lacerations (20%). Males represent (81.6%), with an average age of 41 years. Diabetic patients were (24.5%), while patients who were taking antibiotics before infection were (44.9%). ESBL genes and their resistance (aph (3\u27)-Ia and aac (3)-II) were commonly found, which shows the presence of multiple drug resistance. The study reveals the widespread prevalence of K. pneumoniae and significant antibiotic resistance in crush and laceration wounds, particularly those associated with ESBL production. These findings highlight the need for effective infection control strategies, tailored treatments to limit spread, and close monitoring of antibiotic resistance patterns
Impact of E-Cigarettes on Periodontal Health and Disease
No full textTobacco smoking is one of the leading risk factors for periodontal disease, impacting inflammatory process of periodontal tissue. Smoking is known to hinder the immune response of periodontal tissue by causing vasoconstriction to peripheral capillaries, and by so decreasing blood flow and subsequent incoming immune cells. Compared to non-smokers, tobacco smokers were found to have higher count of periopathogens present within dental biofilm. However, over the last decade, electronic cigarettes have made a significant rise in both users and frequency of use. Although the effects of e-cigarettes on oral health are not as evident and prominent as that of tobacco smoking. This study aims to understand the impact of e-cigarettes use on periodontal tissue in comparison to tobacco smoking. A total of 182 patients were included, and divided into three groups, 49 non-smoker, 66 tobacco smokers, and 67 e-cigarettes/vape smokers. Each individual was examined clinically and periodontal indices were recorded, including gingival index, plaque index and bleeding on probing. Overall gingival index scores were worse in smokers, however, bleeding on probing were significantly higher in e-cigarettes smokers and non and lower in tobacco smokers. The study found tobacco smoking had more harmful impact on periodontal status in comparison to e-cigarettes.
Study of V-Domain Immunoglobulin Inhibitor of T-Cell Activation Marker in Iraqi Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type-1
No full textType 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune ailment where the immune system destroys the β-cells in the pancreas, ensuing in absolute insulin insufficiency. Understanding immune regulatory markers may cause new techniques of diagnosis and therapy in addition to a deeper know-how of the mechanisms underlying disorder. The checkpoint protein VISTA which regulates Tcell activity and immunological tolerance is one example of such a hallmark. To evaluate serum VISTA levels in Iraqi patients with T1DM compared to healthy individuals, and to explore its potential as an immunological biomarker for early detection, risk stratification, and monitoring of the disease. A case-control study including 150 participants 100 T1DM patients and 50 healthy controls was conducted in Baghdad. The levels of C-peptide, VISTA, fasting blood sugar (FBS), and HbA1c in blood samples were measured using ELISA. T1DM patients showed significantly higher HbA1c and FBS levels compared to healthy controls. C-peptide levels were drastically reduced in patients, indicating near-total loss of β-cell function. VISTA levels were markedly elevated in patients (339.78 ng/mL) compared to controls (134.46 ng/mL). Positive correlations were observed between HbA1c and VISTA, as well as FBS and VISTA, suggesting that chronic hyperglycemia may influence immune checkpoint activity. In conclusion, T1DM, VISTA seems to be a promising biomarker that may be used for risk assessment, disease monitoring, and early identification. Also, VISTA pathway targeting could be a new therapeutic strategy to control immune responses and maintain β-cell function.
Biomaterial Scaffolds in Regenerative Endodontic Treatments: Host-Derived, Natural, and Synthetic Approaches: A Review
No full textRegenerative endodontic treatments (RETs), which focus on biologically based regeneration with respect to the pulp-dentin complex instead of just infection control, have emerged as revolutionary approaches to treating necrotic immature permanent teeth. For regenerative methods to be efficient, growth factor-enriched scaffolds are necessary. In the case when combined with stem cells as well as signaling molecules, such scaffolds provide a supportive environment that drives the fundamental tissue engineering procedures in the case. Autologous scaffolds derived from patient blood, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), and concentrated growth factor (CGF), are prized for their biological activity and ease of preparation. Additionally, natural biomaterials mimicking extracellular matrix and are biocompatible, including alginate, collagen, hyaluronic acid and chitosan, promoting neurogenesis and angiogenesis. Clinical adaptability requires customizable mechanical qualities and degradation rates, which are provided by synthetic scaffolds, like polymers, hydrogels, and cements depending on calcium silicate. There includes discussion regarding challenges including fibrous tissue growth in place of true pulp, microbial persistence, and incomplete regeneration. The main goal of this study is to provide an overview related to the many types as well as biological characteristics of biomaterial scaffolds utilized in pulpal regeneration. Examine the limitations and clinical efficacy regarding synthetic, natural, and host-derived scaffolds. Emphasize developments in scaffold fabrication technologies, such as nanotechnology and 3D bioprinting. Discuss the difficulties and potential paths for improving scaffold-mediated regenerative protocols. The method was used in this stury utilizing the Google Scholar, Pub Med, and Research Gate database, a thorough English-language search of published resources has been conducted from 2007 to December 2024. Through promoting biological regeneration related to the pulp-dentin complex, the application of growth factor-enriched scaffolds in regenerative endodontics provides a significant advancement above conventional treatment. Different scaffold types—synthetic, natural and host-derived—present different advantages and difficulties. Scaffold clinical potential and design are being advanced by innovations such as nanotechnology, 3D bioprinting, and stem cell homing. The growth Factor-Enriched Scaffolds, Regenerative Endodontic Treatments (RETs), 3D Bioprinting, Dental Pulp Regeneration, Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).
The Impact of Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein-A (PAPP-A) on Live and Dead Embryos at Various Developmental Stages
No full textPregnancy Associated Placental Protein A (PAPP-A) is Zinc-Binding metalloproteinase with a vital role in insulin like growth factor (IGF) pathway. IGF system plays a key role in follicular development, including steroid hormone synthesis, growth, recruitment, and apoptosis of follicles. There is minimal information in the literature regarding PAPP-A levels in Follicular Fluid (FF) of women that undergoing intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The purpose of study to detect PAPP-A in blood and follicular fluid during oocyte pick up in infertile women undergoing ICSI, and to investigate the role of PAPP-A in embryonic development. The findings showed a nonsignificant relationship between total oocyte number and oocyte maturity and serum and FF PAPP-A, and fertilization rate. There was a significant correlation between live and dead embryos with different embryonic stages. There was a non-significant correlation between serum and FF PAPP-A with total, mature, and fertilized oocytes, and the oocyte quality parameters examined in this study (total oocyte, mature oocyte, and fertilized oocyte) were influenced by numerous factors (age, prior pregnancies, weight, and others). Live and the dead embryo was not-significant in the embryonic stages (two-cell stage, four-cell stage, and eight-cell stage embryos), except two cell stage dead embryo with serum PAPP-A and four-cell stage dead embryo with FF PAPP-A was high significant differences
Awareness of Age-Related Eye Diseases Among Adults Over 40 Years in Baghdad
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Knowledge of common eye diseases plays an important role in encouraging people to seek treatment for eye problems. This study was conducted to assess awareness and knowledge of cataract, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma in people 40 years and above. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted by convenient sampling. Among 183 participants aged 40 years and above from the general population. Data was collected through a semi structured questionnaire and was conducted through direct interviews to 183 participants in Al Kindy hospital in Baghdad. The results showed awareness for cataract, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma was 150 (82%), 142 (77.6%), and 132(72.1%) respectively. Knowledge about these diseases is treatable was 131(87.3%), 68 (47.9%) and 69 (52.3%) respectively and knowledge about the worst effect of these diseases is blindness was 71 (47.3 %), 114(80.3%) and 101(76.5%) respectively. About source of information for these diseases (44.3%) of the participants took their information from social media. There was a significant statistical association between age with awareness about cataract and occupation with awareness about glaucoma. Public education for periodic eye checks effective measures for its early detection and management regarding these three diseases