In low and middle-income (developing) countries, there is a huge shortage of scientific output in spite of the highest burden of disease [1]. Researches affiliated with developing countries form a small fraction of the literature [2]. This may be due to a lack of resources on one hand and little attention of the related persons to written communication from these countries on the other hand [1,3].
Hydatid disease (HD) and pilonidal sinus (PNS) are two most obvious examples of diseases that have almost vanished in western countries and continue to be prevalent and evolve in the low-income population. When a disease continues to exist over a period of time, it is quite an accepted idea that it changes the trend from epidemiology to diagnosis and management, so it needs continuous assessment and studies [4-6].
Richard Smith, the editor of the British Medical Journal once stated that editors of high-ranking journals who are mostly affiliated with developed countries are denying accepting articles from developing countries due to the little interest of their readers and the low volume of submissions from these countries [2].
Barw Medical Journal is a modern attempt to support and guide the researchers and research institutes from low and middle-income countries to participate in the evolution of the current scientific communication and fill the gap of publishing found in the literature between the developing and developed countries. The editors of Barw Medical Journal will do their best to alter the current reputation of developing countries from the scientific perspective to the highest possible standard.
Abdulwahid M. Salih, Hawbash M. Rahim, Berun A. Abdalla, Fahmi H. Kakamad, Usra A. Mhamad, Gasha S. Ahmed, Hiwa O. Abdulla, Han Aube, Hiwa O. Baba, Ekram K. Mustafa, Lawand M. Ahmed, Shvan H. Mohammed, Fakher Abdullah
Trial of Pilonidal Sinus Disease Induction in a Rat Model: An Animal Experimental Study
Abdulwahid M. Salih, Hawbash M. Rahim, Berun A. Abdalla, Fahmi H. Kakamad, Usra A. Mhamad, Gasha...
Abstract
Introduction
Pilonidal sinus disease is a common suppurative perianal condition. The aim of this trial is to create an animal model of pilonidal sinus disease to study and compare the mechanism of action of numerous medications.
Methods
Ten adult Sprague-Dawley rats were enrolled in the study. They were separately housed in polypropylene cages. They were fed normal chow. The rats were anesthetized with Ketamine and Xylazine (At a ratio of 3:1) through intramuscular injection into their proximal thigh. The back of each rat was shaved, and a sample of the hair rat was obtained and labeled. After clearing the back of the animal, a vertical 1 cm incision was inflicted upon the dorsal side of each rat with a blade 15’ and a tuft of hair composed of at least 20 fibers was embedded in the wound, later the wound was closed by 4.0 proline suture material in a simple interrupted fashion. The rats were followed for a period of 4 weeks.
Results
Macroscopically, the rats showed 0.5x0.5 cm nodules at the side of the injury at the 5th week. As there was no draining sinus, the picture in this form cannot be regarded as a typical pilonidal sinus, it was more consistent with a foreign body granuloma. No pilonidal sinus could be reported.
Conclusion
Rat is not a suitable animal for the induction of pilonidal sinus disease.
A hernia is when a viscus or a portion of a viscus protrudes through an irregular opening in the walls of the cavity it is contained in. This study's objective was to examine the effectiveness of mesh-based hernia repair with a focus on infection and recurrence rates.
Methods
This is a single cohort study conducted over 4 years. Patients with inguinal hernia received regional anesthesia while others have been given general anesthesia. Polypropylene mesh was used for all of them. They received preoperative antibiotics (1 gram of ceftriaxone). They were followed up for three years.
Results
During 4 years, 270 patients were enrolled in the study. The mean age of patients was 48 years. One hundred fifty patients (55.5%) were male and 120 of them (44.5%) were female. One hundred forty-two patients (52.6%) had an inguinal hernia. Ninety patients (33.3%) had umbilical hernias, 20 patients (7.4%) had epigastric hernias and 8 patients (3%) had incisional hernias. Five cases (1.8%) developed recurrence. Two patients (0.7%) had an infection.
Conclusion
Abdominal wall hernia repair using mesh is safe with very low complication rates.
Dlsoz M. Hussein, Fahmi H. Kakamad, Bnar J. Hama Amin, Dana H. Baqi, Soran H. Tahir, Abdulwahid M. Salih, Razhan K. Ali, Fattah H. Fattah, Gasha S. Ahmed, Berun A. Abdalla, Hussein M. Hamasalih, Hiwa O. Abdullah, Sabah J. Hassan
Hydatid Cyst in the Pulmonary Artery: A Systematic Review
Dlsoz M. Hussein, Fahmi H. Kakamad, Bnar J. Hama Amin, Dana H. Baqi, Soran H. Tahir, Abdulwahid...
Abstract
Introduction
It is uncommon to have a hydatid cyst in the pulmonary artery. Typically, it results from an intracardiac cyst or a surgical cyst rupturing from a hepatic origin.The objective of this systematic review is to describe this rare disease.
Methods
The electronic search engine and database "Google Scholar" and "PubMed" were systematically searched for pertinent publications in the English language.
Results
A total of 45 papers were initially found by the systematic search; however, only 16 studies that comprised 16 patients were included. Eight (50%) of the patients were male and eight (50%) were female. Hemoptysis, dyspnea, bloody sputum, vomiting, and shortness of breath were the clinically significant symptoms. Twelve (75%) of the patients had a history of hepatic hydatid disease, followed by three patients (18.8%) with primary lung cystic lesions, and one (6.3%) patient with primary cardiac lesions. Severe pulmonary hypertension, septic shock, and massive hemoptysis all contributed to the death of three (18.8%) patients.
Conclusion
Localization of hydatid cysts inside the pulmonary artery is incredibly uncommon but life-threatening condition. Surgery may be the last remaining choice for some patients.
Hiwa O. Abdullah, Berun A. Abdalla, Dana H. Mohammed-Saeed, Soran H. Tahir, Fattah H. Fattah, Sabah J. Hassan, Hussein M. Hamasalih, Bnar J. Hama Amin, Abdulwahid M. Salih, Savo Sh. Noori, Fahmi H. Kakamad, Shvan H. Mohammed
A Comprehensive Study of Pericardial Hydatid Cyst: Systematic Review and Meta-Data Presentation
Hiwa O. Abdullah, Berun A. Abdalla, Dana H. Mohammed-Saeed, Soran H. Tahir, Fattah H. Fattah,...
Abstract
Introduction
Pericardial hydatid cysts constitute 7% of all cases of cardiac hydatidosis, yet their occurrence is often associated with several life-threatening complications. This study presents a systematic review of reported cases of pericardial hydatid cysts.
Methods
A systematic review of published studies on pericardial hydatid cysts was conducted. The included studies meeting the following criteria: (1) Confirmation of pericardium infection through diagnostic modalities, surgical findings, or histopathology; (2) Presentation of case details within the study; (3) Presence of cyst(s) originally located or adhered to the pericardium without rupture from adjacent cardiac structures or organs.
Results
In total, 106 studies met the inclusion criteria. The majority of cases (29.72%) were reported in Turkey, followed by India (18.24%). No gender predilection was observed, and patients' ages ranged from 5 to 80 years. The most common symptoms reported were chest pain (43%) and dyspnea (36%). Hydatid cysts were exclusively located in the pericardium in 56% of cases, while 44% involved multiple locations. Surgery was the preferred treatment choice (87.8%), with cystectomy (72.3%) being the primary technique for cyst removal. Only three cases (2%) experienced recurrences, with a significant correlation between recurrence and a history of hydatidosis. The mortality rate was 2.7%.
Conclusion
Pericardial hydatid disease is more prevalent in subtropical regions. The definitive treatment for pericardial hydatid cysts is primarily surgical, typically performed through a median sternotomy. A history of hydatidosis increases the likelihood of recurrence.
Aso S. Muhialdeen, Jaafar Omer Ahmed, Hiwa O. Baba, Ismael Y. Abdullah, Hemn Ali Hassan, Kayhan A. Najar, Tomas M. Mikael, Mohammed Q. Mustafa, Diyar Adnan Mohammed, Diyar Abubaker Omer, Rawa Bapir, Hiwa O. Abdullah, Sami S. Omar, Karokh K. Mohammed, Sasan M. Ahmed, Hawbash M. Rahim, Marwan N. Hassan, Snur Othman, Suhaib H. Kakamad, Dahat A. Hussein, Rawezh Q. Salih, Zuhair D. Hammood, Hunar Ali Hassan, Berun A. Abdalla, Shvan H. Mohammed, Fahmi H. Kakamad, Fakher Abdullah
Kscien’s List; A New Strategy to Discourage Predatory Journals and Publishers (Second Version)
Aso S. Muhialdeen, Jaafar Omer Ahmed, Hiwa O. Baba, Ismael Y. Abdullah, Hemn Ali Hassan, Kayhan...
Abstract
Kscien’s list is currently the most up-to-date blacklist. The current study aims to add some additional properties to the first version of Kscien’s list in order to recognize predatory publications more appropriately. Kscien has developed two other independent lists besides the four previous ones under the titles “Conference list” and “Cumulative list”. The conference list includes the titles of predatory conferences that are independent or sponsored by a particular organization. After vanishing Beall’s list, Kscien’s list remained the only up-to-date list of predatory publications. Nonetheless, the predators' rapid evolution with several mutated strategies compelled Kscien Predatory List Committee to take some necessary actions to keep predatory publications under observation and better recognize them; the conference and cumulative lists would be a necessary option to shed light on modern predators.
Pavel M. Kareem, Sanna O. Karim, Hawar A. Sofi, Fuad Emad Fuad, Suhaib H. Kakamad, Hiwa O. Abdullah, Berun A. Abdalla, Shavn M. Hussein, Hawbash M. Rahim, Marwan N. Hassan, Fahmi H. Kakamad, Hiwa A. Ali
Uniport Versus Multiport Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): Comparisons and outcomes: A Review Article
Pavel M. Kareem, Sanna O. Karim, Hawar A. Sofi, Fuad Emad Fuad, Suhaib H. Kakamad, Hiwa O....
Abstract
There are contr oversies regarding the number of ports in video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). The aim of this review is to compare the outcomes of multiport VATS and uniport VATS in form of postoperative pain, hospital stay, the volume of blood loss, duration of operation, duration of postoperative drainage and conversion rate. Although lacks a high level of evidence, this short review showed that uniport VATS might be a preferred alternative approach in thoracic surgery. Patients with uniport VATS have shorter hospital stays, less pain, early recovery and sooner removal of the chest tube.
Borderline Personality Disorder: A Psycho-Analytic Perspective
Yadgar N. Abbas, Jaafar O. Ahmed, Dahat A. Hussein, Fakhir H. Abdullah, Rawezh Q. Salih, Shvan H....
Abstract
Introduction
Borderline personality disorder is one of the most common personality disorders and it is associated with functional impairments. This article clarifies the use of psychodynamic formulations in understanding an 18-year-old lady diagnosed with Borderline personality disorder.
Case presentation
An 18-year-old female experiencing a mass of symptoms including depression, feeling lonely, self-blaming, confusion, inability to work, impulsivity, mood swings, relationship problems, and difficulty in thinking clearly. Rapid Mental State Examination revealed an obese body build, with long dark hair and a wide black framed medical glass. She looked anxious and tired. Her cognitive functions. She showed evidence of the crucial features of borderline personality disorder. The therapist offered biweekly sessions with the client to listen to her story which took three sessions (each one of 45 minutes) to figure out her worries and life difficulties, during these sessions therapist tried to prove to her that she was listened to and she was welcomed to speak as loud and as clear as she wanted. This made her feel confident to speak and made her make a promise to commit to the therapeutic processes in the 4th session. So far, the plan was to have overall 14 therapeutic sessions.
Conclusion
Dealing with the delicate cases of borderline personality disorder is one of the most challenging and therapist-exhausting situations using the psychodynamic interview is an effective way in helping cases of borderline personality disorder.
Successful Management of Severe Hypertriglyceridemia in a Neonate with Apolipoprotein A Deficiency: A Case Report with Literature Review
Bilal A. Mohammed, Karzan M. Hasan, Zana B. Najmadden, Hawbash M. Rahim, Dilan S. Hiwa, Shvan H....
Abstract
Introduction
Reports regarding severe neonatal hypertriglyceridemia are scarce, and there is no consensus regarding its management. This report describes the successful management of a neonatal case of hypertriglyceridemia managed successfully.
Case presentation
A 2-day-old male neonate born to consanguineous parents presented with yellow skin discoloration. The mother had moderate hypertriglyceridemia. While testing for jaundice, the neonate’s blood was noticed to be milky. Blood lipid profile test showed highly elevated triglyceride (1,000-10,000 mg/dl), very-low-density lipoprotein level (1,800 mg/dl), and low-density lipoprotein (206 mg/dl) levels, and a low level of high-density lipoprotein (12 mg/dl). Further laboratory diagnosis revealed apolipoprotein A1 deficiency (39 mg/dl). The patient was put on a statin tablet of 0.25 mg twice daily and a formula diet (Monogen – Nutricia) low in triglycerides and rich in medium-chain triglycerides, and was given 1 ml Omega-3 syrup twice daily. After a dramatic decline in serum level, he was put on a 50% medium-chain-triglyceride formula and Gemfibrozil triglyceride-lowering agent.
Conclusion
Early diagnosis of severe hypertriglyceridemia in the neonatal period aids in the early initiation of treatment and prevention of severe complications. Conservative treatment via dietary modifications and supplementation can be associated with satisfactory outcomes.
May-Thurner Syndrome as The Presenting Symptoms of Behcet’s Disease: A Rare Case Report
Shorsh A. Mohammed, Fahmi H. Kakamad, Soran H. Tahir, Marwan N. Hassan, Miran Najmadden Hassan,...
Abstract
Introduction
May-Thurner syndrome as a presenting symptom of Behcet’s disease is rare in the literature. The aim of the current study is to report a rare case of Behcet's disease which has been presented with May-Thurner syndrome.
Case presentation
A 26-year-old woman presented with left leg pain for a one-year duration. On examination, there were dilated superficial veins and edema in the calf. A computed tomography scan of the pelvis showed a markedly narrowed left common iliac vein which was compressed by the right common iliac artery, suggesting May-Thurner syndrome. After a period of not responding to medications, she had been referred to a rheumatologist. The patient was diagnosed with Behcet's disease. She received immunosuppressant agents and glucocorticoids. The patient's symptoms improved after two months of follow-up.
Conclusion
May-Thurner syndrome could be an early manifestation of Behcet's disease, which may further complicate the clinical picture of Behcet's disease.
Fahmi H. Kakamad, Shorsh A. Mohammed, Soran H. Tahir, Rezheen Jamal, Dana H. Baqi, Dlsoz M. Hussein, Bnar J. Hama Amin, Razhan K. Ali, Rawezh Qadir M. Salih
Pulmonary Artery Aneurysm-Related Fatal Hemoptysis in Behcet's Disease: A Case Report with Literature Review
Fahmi H. Kakamad, Shorsh A. Mohammed, Soran H. Tahir, Rezheen Jamal, Dana H. Baqi, Dlsoz M....
Abstract
Introduction
Behcet's disease is a multisystemic disorder of unknown etiology. Vascular involvement is identified by the development of aneurysms and occlusion of the vessels. The current report aimed to discuss a case of Behcet disease presented with a bilateral pulmonary aneurysm.
Case presentation
A 41-year-old woman presented with recurrent attacks of hemoptysis for two years. A chest computed tomography scan revealed bilateral pulmonary artery aneurysm. Repeated bronchoscopy showed bleeding from the right lower lobe bronchus. She underwent a right-side thoracotomy with a right lower lobectomy. She was scheduled for left-side intervention as well. Before discharge, she was seen by a rheumatologist and was diagnosed with a case of Behcet disease. She developed attacks of massive hemoptysis (huge and bright blood) after two weeks which led to her passing away.
Conclusion
Although it is rare, Behcet disease could involve major arteries and lead to fatal complications. Surgical intervention remained a viable option for the management.
