Journals
2025 EN
AlOdat Ibrahim · AlFawaeir Saad
ABSTRACT Background and Aims The detrimental effect of tobacco cigarette smoking on human health has been reported in previous studies. The aim of the current study is to assess the effect of tobacco cigarette smoking on sperm quality and serum levels of sex hormones in men from the Jordanian population. Method In this study, 145 smoker men and 136 nonsmoker men were recruited. Semen analysis including ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, sperm total mobility and sperm morphology, was performed for comparison between cigarette smokers and non‐cigarette smokers. Serum concentrations of total testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle‐stimulating hormone were also assessed in all subjects. Results Results from this study showed a significant statistical reduction in ejaculate volume (2.14 ± 0.03 mL vs. 2.65 ± 0.02 mL, p < 0.001) and sperm quality (sperm concentration, sperm total motility and sperm morphology) in smokers compared to non‐smokers. It also showed that smokers had statistically significant decreases in serum total testosterone hormone and follicular‐stimulating hormone levels (400.17 ± 4.29 IU/L and 6.23 ± 0.02 IU/L), respectively compared to non‐smokers (510.15 ± 5.17 IU/L and 7.75 ± 0.52 IU/L), respectively ( p < 0.05). Smokers exhibited a notably higher level of serum luteinizing hormone compared to non‐smokers, with statistical significance (8.34 ± 0.03 IU/L vs. 7.04 ± 0.05 IU/L, p < 0.001). Conclusion Tobacco cigarette smoking showed an obvious reduction in ejaculate volume and sperm quality as well as altered levels of serum sex hormones in Jordanian men.
Journals
2025 EN
Mohammadzadeh Niloofar · Lotfi Fatemeh · Samadpour Hamed
ABSTRACT Background and Aims Digital transformation in healthcare has driven the adoption of diverse health information systems, including electronic health records, mobile health (mHealth) applications, and clinical decision support tools. However, optimal interaction between users and these systems remains a challenge. The field of Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) offers theoretical frameworks to guide the design and evaluation of these technologies, enhancing usability and adoption by health professionals and patients. This systematic review aims to identify and synthesize the most frequently applied HCI theories in health informatics and examine their relevance across digital health technologies. Methods A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Three databases—PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar—were searched with no date restriction. Studies were included if they applied a defined HCI theory to the context of health information technologies and were published in English. Review articles, conceptual papers, and studies without a clear theoretical framework were excluded. A total of 67 eligible studies were included in the final synthesis. Results The use of HCI theories in health information technology has increased notably since 2015, with a sharp rise observed after 2020. The most frequently used frameworks included the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). mHealth applications accounted for most theory applications (37%), followed by hospital information systems and web‐based tools. The geographic distribution revealed that the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia produced the highest number of theory‐driven studies. Conclusions HCI theories are vital in improving the design, usability, and implementation of health information systems. This review underscores the importance of integrating user‐centered theoretical frameworks in system development and calls for broader geographic and contextual diversity in future theory‐based research.
Journals
2025 EN
Douba Zein AlAbideen · Ibrahim Rama
ABSTRACT Background and Aims Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. Hepcidin is a liver‐produced hormone playing a key role in the regulation of iron levels in the body. Studies have shown that hepcidin is upregulated in many diseases and inflammatory conditions, including cancers. This study paper aims to assess serum hepcidin in patients with breast cancer and to study its correlation with tumor stage. Methods A total of 39 breast cancer women and 25 healthy controls were included in the study. Serum hepcidin levels were measured using the ELISA method. Other tumor‐related parameters including Cancer Antigen 15‐3 (CA 15‐3), Iron (Fe), C‐Reactive Protein (CRP) and the complete blood count (CBC) were also assessed. Results This study showed Furthermore, this study found a positive correlation a significant increase in hepcidin levels in breast cancer patients compared to healthy controls ( M = 5.57, SD = 4.87), t (62) = 6.89, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.75. Furthermore, serum hepcidin showed a strong positive correlation with CA15‐3 ( r = 0.62, p < 0.001), CRP ( r = 0.58, p < 0.001), and tumor stage ( η ² = 0.47, p < 0.001), indicating its potential as a prognostic marker. Conclusion These findings suggest that serum hepcidin may serve as a potential biomarker to monitor disease progression in breast cancer patients. CRP could be a positive‐regulator for hepcidin in breast cancer.
Journals
2025 EN
Kaur Kanwalpreet · Saini Ravinder S. · Binduhayyim Rayan Ibrahim H.
+2 more
ABSTRACT Background and Aims Dental anxiety in children is a prevalent concern that affects compliance and treatment outcomes in pediatric dentistry. Nonpharmacological behavioral interventions (NPBI), including virtual reality (VR) and tell‐show‐do (TSD), are commonly used to manage dental anxiety. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aim to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in reducing anxiety and pain perception in pediatric dental patients. Methods Following PRISMA‐2020 guidelines, a comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science was conducted until April 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing NPBIs to controls in children undergoing dental procedures were included, focusing on changes in dental anxiety and pain. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool for RCTs and the ROBINS‐I tool for non‐randomized studies. Meta‐analysis was performed using a random‐effects model, with standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) calculated for anxiety and pain outcomes. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using I² and Cochran's Q test. Results Of 2,957 records, 76 RCTs with 6,723 participants were included. Distraction techniques did not significantly reduce dental anxiety compared to Tell‐Show‐Do (SMD −0.34, 95% CI −0.71 to 0.04) but were effective in reducing pain (SMD −0.43, 95% CI −0.76 to −0.10). Virtual Reality (VR) distraction showed no significant reduction in anxiety or pain compared to traditional techniques. Conclusion While certain distraction techniques may alleviate pain, their impact on anxiety is comparable to that of traditional methods such as TSD. Despite this innovative approach, VR distraction did not demonstrate superiority over traditional techniques in reducing anxiety or pain.
Journals
2025 EN
Nikièma Achille Sindimbasba · Sanou Armel Moumouni · Ouattara Mamadou
+8 more
ABSTRACT Background and Aims Congenital toxoplasmosis can cause severe diseases to the fetus and newborns or abortion, and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In Burkina Faso, while seroprevalence data for toxoplasmosis are available for urban areas, such data are scarce for rural areas. This study aims to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women attending antenatal services in primary health facilities in rural and urban areas. Methods A cross‐sectional study was conducted between July 2022 and June 2023 in health facilities located in the Cascades ( n = 2), Hauts‐Bassins ( n = 2), and Sud‐Ouest ( n = 2) regions. All pregnant women attending the health facilities for antenatal care who consented to participate in the study were enrolled. Venous blood samples were collected from each pregnant woman, and serum was analyzed for IgG and IgM antibodies using a rapid diagnostic test. Seroprevalences of IgM and IgG were determined. The association between seroprevalence and socio‐demographic characteristics was assessed by bivariate and multivariate analyses. Results A total of 2509 pregnant women were enrolled and screened. Their mean age was 25.71 years, and the overall seroprevalence (IgM‐positive and or IgG‐positive) was 29.33% (736) (95% CI: 27.56–31.16). Of the 736 women tested positive for both antibodies, 27 were seropositive for IgM antibody; 703 for IgG antibody and 6 for both antibody (Ig M; Ig G). No statistically differences were observed in the seroprevalence according to age, place of residence (rural, urban), and educational level of the participant ( p = 0.002). Conclusion The results of our study indicate a high seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women, with no statistically difference between rural and urban areas. Some women acquired the infection during pregnancy, underscoring the risk of congenital toxoplasmosis. Health authorities should integrate toxoplasmosis diagnosis into a free antenatal screening program to facilitate the detection of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy and prevent congenital toxoplasmosis.
Journals
2025 EN
Ibrahim Fatma. M · Sami Gharam · Bano Shabnam
ABSTRACT Background and Aims Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths among women worldwide. This study compares the effectiveness of the Pink Luminous Breast LED‐based Technology Device with traditional Breast Self‐Examination (BSE) among nursing students. Methods A comparative cross‐sectional study was conducted with 191 nursing students aged 20 years and above. Data was collected using socio‐demographic characteristics, knowledge of breast screening, and feedback on screening methods. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 28.0, employing Chi‐square tests and thematic analysis. Results 63.4% (121/191) of participants preferred Pink Luminous over BSE. Significant associations were observed between preference for Pink Luminous and marital status (88.9% [16/18] vs. 60.7% [105/173], p < 0.001), contraceptive use (85.7% [12/14] vs. 100% [9/9], p < 0.001), and year of study (e.g., 89.3% [50/56] among fourth‐year students, p < 0.001). Participants with good breast cancer screening knowledge (132/191) had a 75% (99/132) preference for Pink Luminous versus 33.3% (20/60) among those with poor knowledge ( p < 0.001). Conclusion The Pink Luminous Device demonstrates promise as an effective tool for breast cancer screening among nursing students. Integrating advanced screening technologies into nursing education could enhance awareness and early detection of breast cancer.
Journals
2025 EN
Alnader Ibrahim · Doyya Modar · Soqia Jameel
+2 more
ABSTRACT Background and Aims Hearing loss is a global public health concern, with the World Health Organization projecting nearly 2.5 billion affected individuals by 2050. Work‐related and recreational noise contribute significantly to hearing impairment, yet there is limited research on this issue in Syria. Methods A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 391 participants from students at Damascus University, using convenience sampling at Damascus University, the largest university in Syria. A questionnaire, adapted from a UK study, was utilized to collect data on sociodemographic factors, beliefs about hearing loss, leisure noise exposure, and hearing protection devices (HPD) usage. Statistical analyses included logistic regressions to identify predictors of recreational noise exposure and HPD usage. Results 45.8% of participants reported occasional recreational noise exposure, with 11.7% experiencing weekly exposure. However, HPD usage remained low at 8.4%. Logistic regressions revealed that gender, age, and personal hearing difficulty did not significantly predict noise exposure or HPD usage. Participants exhibited a high belief (98%) in genetic causes of hearing loss. Conclusion This study unveils a gap in understanding and addressing recreational noise exposure among Damascus University students. The prevalence aligns with global trends, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Low HPD usage and prevalent beliefs in genetic causes of hearing loss underscore cultural influences and emphasize the necessity for culturally sensitive interventions. To advance public health, tailored interventions and educational programs within academic institutions are imperative. These findings lay the foundation for culturally sensitive public health initiatives.
Journals
2025 EN
Amory Ibrahim A. · Khazaee Parviz Rashidi · Yousefi Saleh
ABSTRACT Background and Aims Sepsis is a life‐threatening condition and remains a leading cause of mortality in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Accurate mortality prediction is crucial for optimizing ICU resource allocation. However, severe class imbalance in ICU datasets hampers the generalization performance of machine learning models. Methods This study proposes a Full Region Synthetic Sampling Approach (FRSSA), a novel data augmentation method that dynamically balances the minority class distribution based on regional density. Additionally, we introduce Adaptive Synthetic Sampling Tuning (ASST), an optimization‐based strategy that adjusts augmentation weights to enhance model performance. To evaluate model fairness and clinical utility, we propose the Balanced Performance Score (BPS), which integrates accuracy, precision, and recall for personalized ICU risk assessment. Also, we compare two augmentation strategies: (1) Pre‐Splitting: Augmentation occurs before data set splitting, and (2) Post‐Splitting: Augmentation is applied only to the training set to ensure fair evaluation. We utilize publicly available ICU datasets from both the MIMIC‐IV and eICU‐CRD databases and evaluate the performance of Random Forest, XGBoost, and LightGBM models, with hyperparameters optimized using RandomizedSearchCV on the training set. Results The Pre‐Splitting strategy achieved 89.64% accuracy and an Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUROC) of 0.968, but posed a risk of test‐set contamination. In contrast, the Post‐Splitting strategy yielded 78.31% accuracy and an AUROC of 0.7241, ensuring better real‐world generalization. The ASST mechanism optimally balanced 65% interpolation (FRSSA) and 35% expansion (FRSSA), reducing false positive rates and enhancing model fairness. Conclusion FRSSA preserves regional data distribution by generating synthetic samples near the imbalanced regions. ASST dynamically adjusts augmentation ratios to maximize classification performance and generalization. The BPS score‐fusion metric offers a flexible evaluation framework, accommodating varying clinical priorities in ICU settings. Our findings demonstrate that Post‐Splitting augmentation with FRSSA and ASST produces a fairer and more reliable ICU mortality prediction model.
Journals
2025 EN
Abdulsahib Ahmed Dhafer · Alkhafaji Dhirgham · Albayati Ibrahim M.
Abstract The present study aims to enhance the natural convection in the heat sink inside an enclosure by perforating fins for power electronic applications. The enclosure is a cube that is manufactured in such a way that the upper and lower surfaces, as well as the front and back surfaces, are thermally insulated. The right surface is hot, while the left surface is cold at a temperature difference ∆ T of (4°C, 8°C, 10°C). The heat sink used consists of five fins that are attached to the heated surface. The heat sink fins are perforated with perforation number NP (4, 8, 12, and 16) and perforation diameter DP (0.5 and 1 cm). Temperatures are measured using 13 thermocouples placed within the enclosure and the temperature distribution is determined using a FLIR E30BX IR thermal camera, while velocity contours are obtained using numerical software. The main results showed improvement in heat transfer with an increase in the number of perforations and (DP = 1 cm) was found to be more efficient than (DP = .5 cm), for instance, when (∆ T = 10°C) for (NP = 16) and (DP = .5 cm). There is a 2.9% improvement in temperature reduction on the fins' tip, while at =(DP = 1 cm), the percentage of improvement was 3.5% and showed a greater expansion of the velocity lines between the fins at (∆ T = 10°C), where the rate of increase in the velocity contours from (∆ T = 4 and 8°C) reaches 20% and 7% respectively. In addition, heat sinks with perforated fins are both lighter and more cost‐effective in terms of metal usage during the manufacturing process.
Journals
2025 EN
Nazeer Mubbashar · AlRazgan Muna · Ali Yasser A.
+3 more
ABSTRACT The exact solution is obtained for the unsteady fluid–particle suspension model of Rabinowitsch fluid through a vertical tube having ciliated walls. The flow inside the tube is produced by the metachronal waves of cilia. The lubricant approach is used to produce the solution of fluid phase velocity, particle phase velocity, stream function, and temperature. The pressure rise is calculated through a numerical analytical technique. The graphs are constructed to explore the characteristics of the velocity of both phases, thermal analysis, trapping phenomena, pressure gradient, and pressure rise. It is known that the slip parameter diminishes the velocity of both phases. The thermal slip parameter and density number upsurge the thermal profile. The particle phase velocity is less than the fluid phase. The present analysis can be useful in biomedical engineering to construct the heart and lung machines that are used to pump blood in arteries.