Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Socioecological Stressors During Covid-19 Among Urban Refugee Youth In Kampala, Uganda: A Qualitative Descriptive Analysis, Sikky Shiqi Chen, Carmen H. Logie, Frannie Mackenzie, Moses Okumu, Robert Hakiza, Brenda Katisi, Daniel Kibuuka Musoke, Aidah Nakitende, Isha Berry, Bay Bahri, Peter Kyambadde

Journal of Social, Behavioral, and Health Sciences

Limited studies have examined pandemic-related stressors among urban refugee youth in low and middle-income humanitarian countries (LMICs), such as Uganda. We explored the lived experience of COVID-19-related stressors among urban refugee youth in Kampala, Uganda. We analyzed qualitative data (text messages, WhatsApp chats, photos) collected in an interactive mobile health intervention with 346 refugee youth aged 16–24 in Kampala. Findings revealed stressors across socioecological levels: individual (e.g., financial-related distress), social (e.g., limited social interactions), community (e.g., food insecurity), and policy (e.g., unprecedented lockdowns). Findings can inform social work organization pandemic preparedness strategies for economic empowerment and social cohesion with youth.

Prevalence Of Hepatitis B Associated Chronic Nephropathy In Baghdad, Iraq For The Year 2023, Ali Abduljabbar Razooqi, Adam Dawoud Salem, Bakri Yousif Nour

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: The correlation between hepatitis B virus (HBV) and nephropathy presents a significant public health issue in Iraq. Aim: This study systematically investigates the association between hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) serology and chronic kidney disease among residents of Baghdad, Iraq. Methods: We evaluated the clinical characteristics and serologic profiles of 609 patients with adult-onset HBV-related membranous nephropathy. Results: Individuals who are HBsAg (+) have a slightly increased risk of developing eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73m2 or proteinuria compared to HBsAg (-) individuals. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the substantial impact of HBV on chronic kidney disease, independent of viral replication or inflammation. The findings underscore the importance of understanding the epidemiology and clinical implications of HBV infection in the context of renal complications, revealing potential immunological and pathological mechanisms. Further studies are recommended to elucidate the complex relationship between HBV infection and kidney impairment.

Ultrasonography Of Normal Fetal Kidney Width Measurement For Estimation Of Gestational Age In Sudanese Pregnant Women, Mohamed Omer Mustafa Omer, Mohaned Haleeb Edris, Ali H. Adam, Mohammed A. Abdelmotalab, Hamza Idriss

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: A precise estimate of gestational age (GA) is essential for providing optimal maternity care and determining the labor date. Aim: This study aimed to determine gestational age between the 14th and 40th weeks for Sudanese pregnant women by measuring the normal fetal kidney width using ultrasound. Methods: The study was designed as a descriptive cross-sectional study in Khartoum and Gezira states, Sudan, from June 2016 to May 2017. Three hundred ninety healthy pregnant women aged between 15 and 45 years were assessed by ultrasound, with overall normal well-being fetuses. Linear regression models for estimating gestational age were developed based …

The Effectiveness Of Aescin Diethylamine Salicylate In Alleviating Peri-Orbital Oedema Ollowing Septorhinoplasty: Follow-Up Study In Basrah, Iraq, Mohannad Mahdi Yaseen, Haider K. Saeed, Ansam Ghazi Abdulwahid

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Periorbital oedema following septorhinoplasty is one of the major complications. Various measures have been advocated to alleviate this issue, including the use of a variety of chemical and/or physical materials, such as Aescin. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the role of Aescin in reducing peri-orbital oedema following septorhinoplasty. Methods: Fifty-four patients underwent primary septorhinoplasty at both Syaab and Saddar Teaching Hospitals in Basrah, Iraq, from September 2023 to September 2024. This randomized prospective interventional study collected data from patients using a designed form during the initial interview. The study population was divided into two groups randomly, group A …

Coblation Tonsillectomy: A Review Of Five-Year Experience In Basrah, Mueen Al-Abdullah, Amjed Haider Ali

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Tonsillectomy is a very common surgery in children and it is the most routinely performed surgical operation worldwide. It is indicated for recurrent tonsillitis, chronic tonsillitis, peritonsillar abscess, suspicion of malignant diseases, and tonsillar hypertrophy causing obstructive sleep apnea. Various techniques can be employed for tonsillectomy, including cold dissection, electrocautery, bipolar diathermy dissection, radiofrequency, coblation, laser, and harmonic scalpel. Coblation is one of the most recent techniques used for tonsillectomy, which can ablate tissue by generating a field of ionized sodium molecules using a bipolar radiofrequency energy, which ablates and coagulates soft tissue into an ionized plasma layer, creating …

Infants And Young Children Feeding Practices Among Mothers Attending Primary Health Care Centers In Basrah, Jhood Molan, Russell Abdul Hussain, Naba Jawad Kazem, Alaa Kazem Lefta, Heba Abdul Razzaq Hassan

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Malnutrition accounts for sixty percent of annual deaths among children under five years in developing countries, attributed to inappropriate feeding practices, including non-diverse and insufficient feeding. Improving the nutrition of children under five is a top priority for human development in these regions. Caregivers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practice of young child feeding are essential factors for child health and growth. Aim: The primary aim of this study was to assess infants and young children feeding practice among mothers attending primary health care centers in Basrah. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 250 mothers attending five primary health care …

Electronic Smoking Prevalence And Awareness Among Al-Nahrain Undergraduate Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study, Nibras Alaa Hussain, Tamara Ala’A Hussein

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Smoking is a significant global cause of preventable morbidity and mortality, resulting in six million deaths worldwide each year. Electronic cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular among adolescents and young adults globally. Aim: This study aims to determine the prevalence of electronic smoking and awareness among Al-Nahrain undergraduate medical students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq. Data were collected during March and April, 2022. A total of 474 undergraduate students completed a modified standard questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-26. Results: The prevalence of electronic smoking was found to be …

Evaluation Of D-Dimer Level In Covid-19 Patients, Amal Malik, Noor Kadhim Mohamed-Jawad, Hiba Dawood, Ali Adnan Mohsin

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is associated with prothrombotic complications, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. D-dimer, a fibrin degradation product, serves as a biomarker for coagulation abnormalities. This study evaluates the role of D-dimer in predicting disease severity and hospitalization in COVID-19 patients. Aim: To assess correlations between D-dimer levels and age, gender, comorbidities, disease severity, and hospitalization needs in COVID-19 patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 78 COVID-19-positive patients admitted to an outpatient clinic was conducted. Data on demographics, comorbidities, vaccination status, disease severity, and admission D-dimer levels were analyzed using statistical tests (t-tests, chi-square, Mann-Whitney U). Results: The …

Does Valsartan Affect The Cytotoxicity Of Doxorubicin When Used As A Cardioprotective Drug Against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity ?, Shaymaa Fadhil Abbas, Ahmed Bader Abdulwahid, Duha Emad Omran, Nehaya Mnahi Al-Aubody, Mohammad Fawzi Albadran

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Doxorubicin is widely used as a chemotherapeutic drug. It has several serious side effects, including cardiotoxicity. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker that plays a cardioprotective role against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Aim: The aim of our study is to evaluate whether the combination of valsartan and doxorubicin affects the therapeutic efficacy of doxorubicin in treating cancer using an in vitro breast cancer cell line (MCF-7). Methods: Different concentrations of doxorubicin, valsartan, and their combination were tested to detect their cytotoxic effects on the cell line using MTT colorimetric assay method. Three duplicates of each concentration and control were made. …

Mean Platelet Volume (Mpv), Mean Platelet Count, And Red Blood Cell Distribution Width (Rdw) In Acute Coronary Syndrome (Acs), Jenan Al Ansary, Amani Hameed Abdulsahib, Ruqia Hameed Abdulsahib, Iman Abdulrasool Bachay

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) reflects anisocytosis, which is the variability in erythrocyte size. This parameter is commonly used in the differential diagnosis of various types of anemia Mean platelet volume (MPV) demonstrates platelet size and serves as an indirect marker of platelet activation. Both RDW and MPV have been proposed as potential markers for cardiovascular disease severity and prognosis. Aim: To evaluate the role of RDW, MPV, and the MPV/PLT ratio as supporting indicators in the diagnosis and severity assessment of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: This cross-sectional hospital-based study included 104 patients diagnosed with ACS (ST-elevation …

Clinical Characteristics And Outcomes Of Acute Coronary Syndrome In A Group Of Patients In Slemani Cardiac Hospital, Khakan Radha Rostem, Amanj Kamal Muhammad, Hamza Hakim Abdullah, Renas Othman Hamad

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a subcategory of coronary artery disease (CAD) that encompasses a range of thrombotic cardiovascular events and remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The clinical characteristics and outcomes of ACS patients can vary significantly based on geographical location, healthcare facilities, and population demographics. These variations highlight the importance of region-specific studies to better understand the presentation, management, and outcomes of ACS in diverse populations. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the demographic profile, cardiovascular risk factors, seasonal variations, clinical presentations, and in-hospital outcomes of ACS patients admitted to Slemani Cardiac Hospital. Methods: …

Platelet Count Pitfalls Between Routine And Advanced Techniques, Dhuha Ali, Sadiq Khalaf Ali

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Precise quantification of platelet counts is a fundamental aspect of clinical hematology, pivotal in diagnosing and managing conditions such as thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis. However, inconsistencies in platelet measurements across various automated hematology analyzers present significant challenges, potentially compromising the reliability of results. This variability is especially critical when platelet counts inform urgent clinical interventions, including the administration of platelet transfusions. Aim: The present study evaluated the accuracy of Sysmex XN-350 and Mindray in comparison to flow cytometry, the gold standard for platelet counting. Methods: 120 blood samples were categorized into thrombocytopenic, thrombocytosis, and normal groups. Platelet counts were measured …

A New Vitamin D Deficiency Cut-Off Value In Basrah, Iraq, Majid Alabbood, , Haider Alrubaye

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is a common health issue worldwide. Clinical observations have shown that most healthy individuals living in Iraq and the Middle East are vitamin D deficient. This study aimed to establish the true cut-off value for vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D) in Basrah, Iraq, by analyzing the value at which parathyroid hormone (PTH) begins to rise above its reference range. Aim: This study sought to determine the true cut-off value for vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D) in Basrah, Iraq by analyzing the value at which PTH starts to exceed its reference range. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving …

The Pattern Of Immunoglobulin Production In Secretory Myeloma And The Relationship Between Relevant Hematological And Clinical Parameters In Basrah, Mays Husseinawi, Sadiq Khalaf Ali

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Plasma cell disorders encompass a spectrum of diseases ranging from benign to malignant. Among malignant plasma cell disorders, multiple myeloma is the most common and well-recognized entity. Aim: To identify the pattern of immunoglobulin production in secretory myeloma in Basra and correlate findings with hematological and clinical data. Methods: A retrospective study of 143 patients with plasma cell disorders was conducted at the Department of Pathology, Basrah Oncology Center, Iraq. Clinical data, relevant laboratory parameters (erythrocyte sedimentation rate, renal function tests, and serum calcium), bone marrow examination findings, radiological findings of bony lesions, and results from serum/urine protein electrophoresis …

Post-Induction Minimal Residual Disease Study By Flow Cytometry In Pediatric B All And Its Correlation With Initial Clinical And Laboratory Parameters, Huda Ali Alnaseri, Yassmin Ali Alaamiri, Hussam Mahmood Salih

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a cancer characterized by the rapid and uncontrolled growth of immature lymphoid cells. Among its subtypes, B-lineage ALL in children represents the most frequently diagnosed malignancy in the pediatric population. Despite high survival rates, relapsed or refractory cases remain challenging. Minimal Residual Disease (MRD), detected by flow cytometry, is a strong prognostic marker that guides the intensity of post-induction therapy. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the correlation between post-induction MRD, measured by multicolor flow cytometry, and the initial clinical and laboratory parameters in pediatric patients with B-ALL. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was …

Psychiatric Disorders Among Divorced People In Basrah, Jamal Abdulzahra, Rafal W. Khalid, Aqeel Ibraheem Al-Sabbagh

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Divorce has been linked to increased psychiatric morbidity; however, studies in regions such as Iraq remain sparse. Despite the known mental health challenges that often follow divorce, the impact within the Iraqi context—shaped by unique cultural changes—demands focused exploration. Aim: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of psychiatric morbidity among divorced individuals, identify psychiatric disorders post-divorce, and assess the impact of various sociodemographic variables on psychiatric morbidity in this population. Methods: Employing a case-control design, this study was conducted in collaboration with local courts and psychiatric clinics in Basrah. A total of 154 participants, divided equally between divorced …

Clinical Evaluation Of Intraoperative Indocyanine Green (Icg) Fluorescent Cholangiography During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Comparative Study, Mariam Akeel, Issam Al-Najjari, Ali Dawood

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is one of the most common surgical procedures performed globally. While it is generally considered safe, there remains a risk of serious biliary injuries occurring during the procedure. Indocyanine green (ICG) is a water-soluble, non-toxic dye that allows real-time intraoperative visualization of the extrahepatic biliary tree. Aim: This study aims to compare the bile duct injury rate, duration of surgery, conversion rate, length of hospitalization, and overall outcomes between laparoscopic cholecystectomy with and without indocyanine green (ICG).  Methods: Ninety-two patients who underwent LC from October 2023 to October 2024 were included in the study; 42 of …

Levels Of 8-Isoprostane And Advanced Oxidation Protein Products In Relation To Sperm Count And Motility, Ahmed Sulaiman, Sherwan Salih

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Oxidative stress is implicated in male infertility, with reactive oxygen species contributing to sperm dysfunction. Among oxidative stress markers, 8-isoprostanes (8-isoP) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) serve as indicators of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation, respectively. However, their relationship with specific sperm abnormalities remains unclear. Aim: This study investigates the oxidative stress markers 8-isoprostane (8-isoP) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) across different semen profiles and explores their correlation with sperm count and motility to evaluate their potential as diagnostic biomarkers in male infertility. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on male partners of infertile couples between May …

Serum Iron Profile In Sudanese Patients Infected By Helicobacter Pylori, Rimaz Gurashi, Abuagla M. Dafalla, Suhair A. Ahmed, Shereen Faisal, Abdelkarim A. Abdrabo

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative, spiral-shaped, motile bacterium that represents one of the most widespread chronic infections in humans, affecting nearly half of the global population. Iron is a vital micronutrient required for almost all living organisms, including H. pylori, which relies on iron to establish colonization. Although several studies have indicated an association between iron deficiency (ID) or iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and H. pylori infection, the precise mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Aim: To assess the serum iron profile among Sudanese patients with H. pylori infection. Methods: Analytical case‑control hospital-based study was conducted at Bahri Hospital, Khartoum state …

Measles Outbreak In Anbar Province During 2023-2024. Demographic Distribution And Vaccination Status, Rafi Alani, Mohammed Dawood

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: This is the first public study covering all cities in Anbar Province regarding the measles outbreaks occurred in 2023 and 2024. Aim: To estimate the demographic distribution of measles among infected children (age, gender, residence) in Anbar Province and to study the effectiveness of the measles vaccine for each patient on infection. Methods: A retrospective analytic cross-sectional study was conducted across all sectors of Anbar Province. The patients included those who were admitted, diagnosed, and treated in various hospitals during the measles outbreak in 2023, and 2024 years. The data was recorded in files of the Anbar Public Health …

Association Of Matricellular Protein, Growth Factor, And Transcription Factor With Molecular Subtypes Of Breast Cancer: A Case Control Study, Marwa Munther Homman, Eman Tariq Ali, Maitham Ali Alrikabi

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Background: Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease comprising molecular subtypes such as Luminal A, Luminal B, Human Epidermal Growth Factor 2 (HER-2)-Enriched, and Triple Negative, each with distinct clinical, molecular, and immunological features. Immunological markers play a critical role in modulating tumor behavior, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. Aim: This study aimed to identify key immunological markers that correlate with the molecular (intrinsic) subtypes of breast cancer and to explore their potential as prognostic factors. Methods: Serum samples from 180 breast cancer patients (56 untreated and 74 treated) were analyzed using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) to determine the levels of four …

Corrigendum: Prevalence Of High Tricuspid Regurgitation Jet Velocity In Patients With Sickle Cell Disease, Amer Al Mansory

Iraqi National Journal of Medicine

Post-publication Author Correction Following publication of the above article, the Editorial Office of the Iraqi National Journal of Medicine (IqNJM) received a formal request on 7 July 2025 from Dr. Assad Faisal Al-Kuheli requesting a correction to the authorship of the article, including removal of one author and rearrangement of the author sequence. Upon receipt of this request, the Editor-in-Chief initiated a formal investigation in accordance with the journal’s bylaws and authorship correction policy. As part of this process, Dr. Weal Al-Shehaby and the Editor-in-Chief contacted all originally listed authors as well as the newly proposed author, both directly by …

Re: Utility Of Routine 24-Hour Electrocardiographic Holter Monitoring For Detecting Atrial Fibrillation In Patients Admitted With Acute Stroke Syndromes, Sinda Zarrouk, Josef Finsterer

Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal

No abstract provided.

A196: Prediction Of Cardiovascular Function Improvement Based On Wearable Device Motion Monitoring And Otnmanba-Bilstm Model, Yixuan Li, Lan Zheng

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading chronic health conditions worldwide, with prolonged physical inactivity or improper exercise increasing the risk of their occurrence. Existing studies suggest that well-structured exercise interventions can significantly enhance cardiac function and improve the adaptability of the cardiovascular system. However, accurately predicting the long-term impact of different exercise durations and intensities on heart health remains challenging due to individual physiological differences, exercise habits, and lifestyle factors. This study employs a data-driven approach to develop a predictive model based on wearable device motion monitoring data, aiming to elucidate the dynamic relationship between exercise and cardiovascular health and …

A197: Perceptual Behavior And Social Interaction Of Chinese College Students Toward Esports, Xianhua Luo

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Social exchange theory (SET) has been extensively used to recognize students’ perceptual behavior (PB) and social interaction (SI). Research has examined the potential factors of recognition and socialization against the economic factors in individual evaluation, seeking rewards or avoiding costs in relationships. The positive impact of PB and SI is a significant experimental approach to studying social psychology. Therefore, the processes of individuals’ perceptual behavior and their social interactions in Esports might address this research gap. Hence, the purposes of this study were to explain the PBs and SIs toward Esports among college students in China. Method: 341college students were …

A214: Effects Of Tai Chi And Brisk Walking On Sensation In Pn Elders, Qiongqiu Zhao, Qipeng Song

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a prevalent neurological disorder, affecting 26–39.2% of adults aged 65 and older due to peripheral nerve degeneration and associated conditions like diabetes. PN leads to sensory impairments, including diminished tactile sensation, increased fall risk, and mobility issues. Tai Chi (TC) is a low-impact exercise shown to enhance sensory function and balance in healthy older adults, but its effects on PN patients remain unclear. Brisk walking (BW) is a widely recommended exercise for older adults, yet its impact on sensory function in PN is not well-established. This study compares TC and BW interventions on tactile sensation in …

Organized Transnational Smuggling Of Narcotic Drugs And Psychotropic Substances: Means, Effects, And International Control Mechanisms, Youness Nafid

Journal of Police and Legal Sciences

This study highlights, discusses, and analyzes the conditions and elements through which the crimes of drug and psychotropic substance trafficking of an organized and transnational nature are realized. These crimes are committed through multiple, complex, and organized means. We based our analysis on the provisions of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, as it is one of the most significant international agreements that serves as a reference for member states in defining and regulating the concept of organized criminal groups, as well as in defining the concept and cases of transnational organized crime.

We called for the enhancement …

A088: Best Core Stability Training Program For Lower Limb Dysfunction In Stroke Patients: A Network Meta-Analysis, Kaiqi Zheng, Dan Wang, Guoliang Liang, Chunyun Deng

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Stroke is the third leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death among adults. Lower limb dysfunction caused by stroke significantly impairs patients' quality of life. Numerous studies have demonstrated that core stability training (CST) can effectively improve lower limb function in stroke patients, and combining CST with other rehabilitation approaches may yield better therapeutic outcomes. This study aims to identify the most effective CST-based combined intervention for treating lower limb dysfunction in stroke patients. Method: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to July 22, 2024, were searched from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, …

A090: Development And Efficacy Evaluation Of Virtual Reality (Vr)-Based Personalized Exercise Prescriptions For Perimenopausal Women, Runze Zhu, Zekai Wu

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Perimenopausal women (aged 45–54) frequently experience climacteric symptoms such as vasomotor disturbances, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular risks due to declining ovarian function and estrogen levels. Approximately 75% of women report varying degrees of discomfort, with 80% exhibiting at least one symptom (e.g., sleep disorders, mood fluctuations). Conventional exercise prescriptions often lack specificity to address individual health disparities and comorbidities (e.g., osteoporosis, metabolic dysfunction). This study aimed to develop a virtual reality (VR)-based personalized exercise prescription system to enhance exercise adherence through immersive experiences and evaluate its efficacy in alleviating perimenopausal physiological and psychological symptoms. A personalized exercise prescription generation system was …

A098: Artificial Intelligence Empowers Exercise And Health For The Elderly: Opportunities, Challenges, And Pathways For Implementation, Yaohong Wang, Ke Wang, Yangguiyi Zhao

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

In the context of accelerated global aging and rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, AI technology provides a new paradigm for improving sports and health management services in the field of elderly care and quality of life. This study aims to reveal the core value of AI technology, analyze the current practical challenges of AI empowerment, and build multidimensional pathways for implementation to promote the coordinated development of healthy aging and technological innovation. Through literature analysis, case studies, and expert interviews, this study systematically explores the application of AI technology in the field of exercise and health of the …