ANN-Based Intelligent Secure Routing Protocol in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) Using Enhanced AODV.

A vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) is a sophisticated wireless communication infrastructure incorporating centralized and decentralized control mechanisms, orchestrating seamless data exchange among vehicles. This intricate communication system relies on the advanced capabilities of 5G connectivity, employing specialized topological arrangements to enhance data packet transmission. These vehicles communicate amongst themselves and establish connections with roadside units (RSUs). In the dynamic landscape of vehicular communication, disruptions, especially in scenarios involving high-speed vehicles, pose challenges. A notable concern is the emergence of black hole attacks, where a vehicle acts maliciously, obstructing the forwarding of data packets to subsequent vehicles, thereby compromising the secure dissemination of content within the VANET. We present an intelligent cluster-based routing protocol to mitigate these challenges in VANET routing. The system operates through two pivotal phases: first, utilizing an artificial neural network (ANN) model to detect malicious nodes, and second, establishing clusters via enhanced clustering algorithms with appointed cluster heads (CH) for each cluster. Subsequently, an optimal path for data transmission is predicted, aiming to minimize packet transmission delays. Our approach integrates a modified ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) protocol for on-demand route discovery and optimal path selection, enhancing request and reply (RREQ and RREP) protocols. Evaluation of routing performance involves the BHT dataset, leveraging the ANN classifier to compute accuracy, precision, recall, F1 score, and loss. The NS-2.33 simulator facilitates the assessment of end-to-end delay, network throughput, and hop count during the path prediction phase. Remarkably, our methodology achieves 98.97% accuracy in detecting black hole attacks through the ANN classification model, outperforming existing techniques across various network routing parameters.

Internet of Vehicles (IoV)-Based Task Scheduling Approach Using Fuzzy Logic Technique in Fog Computing Enables Vehicular Ad Hoc Network (VANET).

The intelligent transportation system (ITS) relies heavily on the vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) and the internet of vehicles (IoVs), which combine cloud and fog to improve task processing capabilities. As a cloud extension, the fog processes' infrastructure is close to VANET, fostering an environment favorable to smart cars with IT equipment and effective task management oversight. Vehicle processing power, bandwidth, time, and high-speed mobility are all limited in VANET. It is critical to satisfy the vehicles' requirements for minimal latency and fast reaction times while offloading duties to the fog layer. We proposed a fuzzy logic-based task scheduling system in VANET to minimize latency and improve the enhanced response time when offloading tasks in the IoV. The proposed method effectively transfers workloads to the fog computing layer while considering the constrained resources of car nodes. After choosing a suitable processing unit, the algorithm sends the job and its associated resources to the fog layer. The dataset is related to crisp values for fog computing for system utilization, latency, and task deadline time for over 5000 values. The task execution, latency, deadline of task, storage, CPU, and bandwidth utilizations are used for fuzzy set values. We proved the effectiveness of our proposed task scheduling framework via simulation tests, outperforming current algorithms in terms of task ratio by 13%, decreasing average turnaround time by 9%, minimizing makespan time by 15%, and effectively overcoming average latency time within the network parameters. The proposed technique shows better results and responses than previous techniques by scheduling the tasks toward fog layers with less response time and minimizing the overall time from task submission to completion.

The Magnitude and Determinants of Tinnitus among Health Science Students at King Khalid University.

BACKGROUND: Tinnitus is a symptom that is defined as a subjective perception of noise in an absence of external sound. It is an indicator of auditory system abnormalities. It can also be present in individuals without any hearing abnormalities. Difficulty to consternate, insomnia, and decreased speech discrimination are the most common symptoms related to tinnitus. AIM: To assess the magnitude and pattern with determinants of tinnitus among health science students at King Khalid University. Methodology. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted targeting all accessible students in health science colleges in King Khalid University which is the main university in the Aseer region, south of Saudi Arabia. Students were included consecutively from different faculties and different grades. Data were collected through a self-administered prestructured questionnaire, which was distributed and recollected the next day. Tinnitus was screened using an adapted form of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). RESULTS: A total sample of 400 students have been included with their ages ranging from 18 to 30 years with a mean age of 22 ± 1.8 years), and 28.5% of the students recorded positive findings. Tinnitus was bilateral among 51.8% of students, and 44.7% of tinnitus students hear buzzing sound while 21.1% have hissing sound and 10.5% had pulsating sound. Among 46.5% of students with tinnitus, the heard sound was of moderate loudness and intermittent among 64.9% of them. Conclusions and Recommendations. In conclusion, the study revealed that just more than a quarter of students complained of tinnitus which was bilateral among half of them. Tinnitus frequency was mainly moderate in intensity and intermittent. Having ear problems, loud sounds, and allergy were the most important predictors of having Tinnitus.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Non-Inherited Risk Factors for Congenital Heart Disease Among Mothers in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Despite advancements in healthcare, congenital heart disease (CHD) remains a global concern. It is crucial to understand non-inherited risk factors for CHD to develop effective prevention strategies. This study evaluates the awareness and impact of socio-economic factors on the knowledge and practices regarding CHD among mothers in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed among 300 mothers. This questionnaire collected demographic data and assessed the knowledge of non-inherited CHD risk factors, along with associated health practices. Chi-square tests were employed for categorical variables, and logistic regression was used to analyze the influence of socioeconomic factors on awareness levels. Results The study revealed a significant association between higher educational levels and increased awareness of CHD risk factors. About 75% of mothers with postgraduate education accurately identified major risk factors, compared to 30% of those with only a high school education. Additionally, income levels influenced health practices, with higher-income groups showing better adherence to recommended health behaviors. Conclusion Our findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions tailored to diverse socio-economic backgrounds to enhance awareness of CHD risk factors and promote preventive health practices. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating socioeconomic considerations into public health strategies to reduce the incidence of CHD.

High-performance biosensors based on angular plasmonic of a multilayer design: new materials for enhancing sensitivity of one-dimensional designs.

In this study, a theoretical examination is conducted to investigate the biosensing capabilities of different surface plasmon resonance (SPR) based hybrid multilayer structures, which are composed of two-dimensional (2D) materials. The transfer matrix formulation is implemented to calibrate the results of this study. A He-Ne laser of wavelength = 632.8 nm is used to simulate the results. Many permutations and combinations of layers of silver (Ag), aluminum oxynitride (AlON), and 2D materials were utilized to obtain the optimized structure. Ten dielectrics and twelve 2D materials were tested for a highly sensitive multilayer hybrid sensing design, which is composed of the prism (Ohara S-FPL53)/Ag/AlON/WS2/AlON/sensing medium. The optimized biosensing design is capable of sensing and detecting analytes whose refractive variation is limited between 1.33 and 1.34. The maximum sensitivity, which is achieved by using the proposed design is 488.2° per RIU. Additionally, the quality factor, figure of merit, detection limit, and qualification limit values of the optimized design were also calculated to obtain a true picture of the sensing capabilities. The designing approach based on the multilayer hybrid SPR biosensors has the potential to develop various plasmonic biosensors that are related to food, chemical, and biomedical engineering fields.

Classification of lytic bacteriophages attacking dairy Leuconostoc starter strains.

A set of 83 lytic dairy bacteriophages (phages) infecting flavor-producing mesophilic starter strains of the Leuconostoc genus was characterized, and the first in-depth taxonomic scheme was established for this phage group. Phages were obtained from different sources, i.e., from dairy samples originating from 11 German dairies (50 Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides [Ln. pseudomesenteroides] phages, 4 Ln. mesenteroides phages) and from 3 external phage collections (17 Ln. pseudomesenteroides phages, 12 Ln. mesenteroides phages). All phages belonged to the Siphoviridae family of phages with isometric heads (diameter, 55 nm) and noncontractile tails (length, 140 nm). With the exception of one phage (i.e., phage ΦLN25), all Ln. mesenteroides phages lysed the same host strains and revealed characteristic globular baseplate appendages. Phage ΦLN25, with different Y-shaped appendages, had a unique host range. Apart from two phages (i.e., phages P792 and P793), all Ln. pseudomesenteroides phages shared the same host range and had plain baseplates without distinguishable appendages. They were further characterized by the presence or absence of a collar below the phage head or by unique tails with straight striations. Phages P792 and P793 with characteristic fluffy baseplate appendages could propagate only on other specific hosts. All Ln. mesenteroides and all Ln. pseudomesenteroides phages were members of two (host species-specific) distinct genotypes but shared a limited conserved DNA region specifying their structural genes. A PCR detection system was established and was shown to be reliable for the detection of all Leuconostoc phage types.

A promising ultra-sensitive CO2 sensor at varying concentrations and temperatures based on Fano resonance phenomenon in different 1D phononic crystal designs.

Detecting of the levels of greenhouse gases in the air with high precision and low cost is a very urgent demand for environmental protection. Phononic crystals (PnCs) represent a novel sensor technology, particularly for high-performance sensing applications. This study has been conducted by using two PnC designs (periodic and quasi-periodic) to detect the CO2 pollution in the surrounding air through a wide range of concentrations (0-100%) and temperatures (0-180 °C). The detection process is physically dependent on the displacement of Fano resonance modes. The performance of the sensor is demonstrated for the periodic and Fibonacci quasi-periodic (S3 and S4 sequences) structures. In this regard, the numerical findings revealed that the periodic PnC provides a better performance than the quasi-periodic one with a sensitivity of 31.5 MHz, the quality factor (Q), along with a figure of merit (FOM) of 280 and 95, respectively. In addition, the temperature effects on the Fano resonance mode position were examined. The results showed a pronounced temperature sensitivity with a value of 13.4 MHz/°C through a temperature range of 0-60 °C. The transfer matrix approach has been utilized for modeling the acoustic wave propagation through each PnC design. Accordingly, the proposed sensor has the potential to be implemented in many industrial and biomedical applications as it can be used as a monitor for other greenhouse gases.

Detection of Clostridium difficile among diarrheic children using cultural and polymerase chain reaction technique.

INTRODUCTION: Clostridium difficile is the most common cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and colitis. Several methods are available for the detection of C. difficile in stool samples. This study aimed to use glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), toxin detection, culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques for the diagnosis of this pathogen. METHODOLOGY: A total of 300 stool samples were collected from children with hospital acquired diarrhea (HA-D), community acquired diarrhea (CA-D), and hospitalized non-diarrheic children as control with ages ranging from 6 months to 6 years (mean 3.7 ± 1.7). Each stool sample was divided into two parts; one part was tested for the enzyme GDH, toxin A and B and then cultured on selective media; and the other part for direct DNA extraction. RESULTS: From a total of 300 stool samples, 9 (3.0%) were positive for C. difficile by the PCR technique, 7 (7%) samples of which were from HA-D cases and 2 (2.0%) from CA-D cases; the control group samples were negative. The enzyme GDH was detected in 12 (12%) samples and toxins A and B in 8 (8%) samples from HA-D cases compared to 5 (5%) and 2 (2%), respectively from CA-D cases. Both GDH and the toxins were negative in control samples. Only 19 (19.0%) samples from HA-D cases gave suspected growth and all of these were negative by PCR. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results of this study, we conclude that the PCR technique is the only reliable method for the diagnosis of this pathogen.

Identification of a Novel Interferon-Stimulated (ISG15) Gene Variant Associated With Inflammatory Cutaneous Lesions and Zinc Deficiency in a Unique Family: A Case Series and Literature Review.

Interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) is a pivotal protein involved in antiviral defense and immune regulation. This study presents a remarkable case series of a consanguineous family with a homozygous variant in the ISG15 gene, leading to a complex interplay of intriguing dermatological manifestations and concurrent zinc deficiency. The range of cutaneous phenotypes observed in the family members, from severe ulcerative lesions to atopic dermatitis, highlights the intricate relationship between the identified genetic variant and dermatological conditions. Furthermore, zinc deficiency adds another layer of complexity to the understanding of these conditions. Comprehensive assessments of zinc levels were conducted for three siblings, while the fourth sibling's evaluation was impeded. This extraordinary case series offers a unique opportunity for scientific exploration, shedding light on complex genetic disorders and potentially paving the way for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in medical science. The convergence of familial genetics, the homozygous ISG15 variant, and the captivating spectrum of cutaneous manifestations hold promise for advancing our understanding of these conditions and their underlying mechanisms.

A Challenging Diagnosis of Kawasaki Disease Shock Syndrome Complicated by Bilateral Pleural Effusion: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute illness primarily affecting children under the age of five. It is characterized by fever and inflammation of small to medium-sized arteries. This case report presents the case of a nine-year-old boy with KD who developed Kawasaki disease shock syndrome (KDSS) complicated by bilateral pleural effusion, which is a rare occurrence. KDSS is defined as KD accompanied by low blood pressure or signs of inadequate blood flow, leading to increased cardiovascular complications. The patient exhibited typical KD symptoms, including conjunctivitis, mucosal changes, rash, extremity swelling, and lymphadenopathy. Additionally, he presented with shock symptoms, such as hypotension and tachycardia. Laboratory findings showed elevated inflammatory markers. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent coronary artery lesions and other severe complications. The patient received intravenous immunoglobulin and showed significant improvement, with resolution of fever and respiratory distress. Follow-up echocardiography revealed normal results. While pulmonary involvement in KD is rare, the presence of bilateral pleural effusion underscores the challenges in diagnosing KDSS. Early recognition and management are essential for favorable outcomes in KD and its complications.

Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome Associated With SLC25A1 Gene Variant: The First Reported Case in Saudi Arabia.

We report the case of a two-year-old full-term girl of consanguineous Saudi parents, who had a history of poor sucking, hypotonia, and bilateral ptosis, as well as recurrent pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admissions with apnea and global developmental delay and unremarkable family history. A genetic study was conducted and whole exome sequencing (WES) identified a likely pathogenic homozygous variant c.842C>T p.(Ala281Val) in the SLC25A1 gene. This finding is consistent with the genetic diagnosis of autosomal recessive combined D-2- and L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (D/L-2-HGA). Genetic testing results suggested a diagnosis of congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) type 23 [Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) #618197]. CMS is a highly heterogeneous group of neuromuscular junction (NMJ) disorders clinically and genetically and compromises the safety margin required for reliable neuromuscular transmission. Fortunately, we suspected a CMS in our patient, and the initiation of management with pyridostigmine has substantially improved the patient's condition.

Role of public relations practices in content management: the mediating role of new media platforms.

Public relations practices are widely accompanied by communication and persuasion. Especially today, when new media platforms provide direct accessibility, communication through PR has become more improved. This research focused on media organizations in the UAE, with a special consideration given to their audience content management. The researchers applied the case study method and selected a sample of n = 280 individuals from n = 12 media houses currently working in the UAE. The results obtained by structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that media organizations in the UAE pay significant consideration to public relations practices (p > 0.000) and new media adoption (p > 0.000). Moreover, both these public relations practices (p > 0.000) and new media adoption were also found to significantly focus on two-way communication. Consequently, this two-way communication is significantly affecting content management among these organizations (p > 0.000), leading to the design, evaluation, and alteration of content that is acceptable and liked by their audiences. Thus, it has been concluded that media content and its management is not a simple task. Audience and communication are two basic factors that play an important role in this regard. Furthermore, the role of public relations practices also enhances communication and content management practices, leading to even more constructive outcomes.

The Level of Awareness of Keratoconus Among the General Population in Hail Region, Saudi Arabia.

Background Keratoconus (KC) is a non-inflammatory corneal disease with an early onset in adulthood, leading to a reduction in visual acuity. This study aims to evaluate the level of awareness of keratoconus among the general population in the Hail region of Saudi Arabia. Methodology Data were collected through a pre-designed and pre-validated online questionnaire (Appendix) distributed via social media platforms. The questionnaire was divided into two sections. The first section included demographic profiles, while the second section inquired about knowledge and awareness regarding Keratoconus. The collected data was reviewed, coded, and inputted into IBM Corp. Released 2013. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. Statistical analyses were performed using the Pearson Chi-Square test, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results The total number of respondents was 550, among whom 40% were males and 60% were females. 79.6% of the participants were in the age range of 18-30 years. The level of education and a positive family history of KC showed significant associations with the level of knowledge about KC (p<0.05). The age group had a non-significant association (p=0.059), while gender had a significant association with the level of knowledge about keratoconus (p<0.05). Conclusion In conclusion, the overall awareness regarding KC progression, interventions, and the consequences of eye rubbing was limited among the participants. Specific efforts are crucial to enhance public awareness and understanding of KC, ensuring a more informed and proactive approach to eye health within the community.

Prevalence of Sleep Disorders Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus at Primary Healthcare Centers in the South Region of Abha City.

Background Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). This issue is of considerable importance in the field of public health, as it has a global impact on a substantial number of individuals. The primary emphasis in the management of type 2 diabetes is centered around achieving glycemic control, implementing lifestyle adjustments, and employing pharmaceutical therapies as preventive measures or for the purpose of managing problems that may arise as a result of the disease. Aim This research aimed to investigate the prevalence of sleep-belated issues among individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Methodology A total of 230 participants with type 2 diabetes patients of primary healthcare in Abha city whose age is ≥18 years were included in the study. The data collection process involved the distribution of a self-administered questionnaire that assessed various aspects of sleep disturbances, including difficulties in falling asleep, waking up during the night, excessive daytime sleepiness, and restless legs or leg muscle cramps. The questionnaire also collected demographic information and data on potential risk factors such as alcohol consumption, caffeine consumption, and smoking/tobacco product use. Data analysis was conducted using chi-square tests and significance levels were set at p < 0.05. Results The findings revealed a prevalence of sleep disturbances among individuals with type 2 diabetes. Difficulties in falling asleep and waking up during the night were reported by a substantial proportion of participants, and a notable number experienced excessive daytime sleepiness. Restless legs or leg muscle cramps that interrupted sleep were experienced occasionally by 16.5% and frequently by 8.7% of the participants. The study also found a significant association between the presence of sleep problems and lower sleep quality ratings. However, no significant associations were found between sleep disturbances and the duration of type 2 diabetes or the examined risk factors. Conclusion The findings from this study emphasize the detrimental effects of sleep disturbances on sleep quality and suggest that improving sleep quality can positively influence the overall health and well-being of individuals with type 2 diabetes.

An experiment on comb orientation by honey bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in traditional hives.

The orientation of combs in traditional beehives is extremely important for obtaining a marketable honey product. However, the factors that could determine comb orientation in traditional hives and the possibilities of inducing honey bees, Apis mellifera (L.), to construct more desirable combs have not been investigated. The goal of this experiment was to determine whether guide marks in traditional hives can induce bees to build combs of a desired orientation. Thirty-two traditional hives of uniform dimensions were used in the experiment. In 24 hives, ridges were formed on the inner surfaces of the hives with fermented mud to obtain different orientations, circular, horizontal, and spiral, with eight replicates of each treatment. In the remaining eight control hives, the inner surface was left smooth. Thirty-two well-established honey bee colonies from other traditional hives were transferred to the prepared hives. The colonies were randomly assigned to the four treatment groups. The manner of comb construction in the donor and experimental hives was recorded. The results showed that 22 (91.66%) of the 24 colonies in the treated groups built combs along the ridges provided, whereas only 2 (8.33%) did not. Comb orientation was strongly associated with the type of guide marks provided. Moreover, of the 18 colonies that randomly fell to patterns different from those of their previous nests, 17 (94.4%) followed the guide marks provided, irrespective of the comb orientation type in their previous nest. Thus, comb orientation appears to be governed by the inner surface pattern of the nest cavity. The results suggest that even in fixed-comb hives, honey bees can be guided to build combs with orientations suitable to honey harvesting, without affecting the colonies.

Prevalence of SARS -CoV-2 IgG/IgM antibodies among patients in Zakho City, Kurdistan, Iraq.

INTRODUCTION: In 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the agent of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), spread all over the world. This global pandemic spread rapidly to more than 195 countries and caused over 200 million infections with a mortality rate of 2%. This study aimed to detect seropositivity against the SARS-CoV-2 virus among outpatients, symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. METHODOLOGY: A total of 489 individuals of age 5-70 years (mean 38.0 ± 17 SD) were enrolled for a cross-sectional study. They were tested for presence of SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG antibodies in serum samples using Enzyme-linked Immunofluorescent Assay (ALFA). RESULTS: A higher seroprevalence was recorded for IgM among females (34.96%) than males (28.83%). In the case of IgG, and IgG + IgM, both males and females had similar values. A significant correlation was identified between seropositivity and age; higher seropositivity (IgG, IgM, and IgG + IgM) was recorded in age groups 51-60 and ≥ 61 years, relative to the younger age groups. No significant correlation was found between symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. No significant correlation was detected between seropositivity and RT-PCR positive and negative cases. CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19 is spreading rapidly and there is a high percentage of asymptomatic carriers. The sensitivity of RT-PCR tests is not uniform and may not be able to detect all cases. On the other hand, serology can be used for large scale testing to detect the real extent to which the disease has spread.

Review on Carbonation Study of Reinforcement Concrete Incorporating with Bacteria as Self-Healing Approach.

This study carried out a comprehensive review to determine the carbonation process that causes the most deterioration and destruction of concrete. The carbonation mechanism involved using carbon dioxide (CO2) to penetrate the concrete pore system into the atmosphere and reduce the alkalinity by decreasing the pH level around the reinforcement and initiation of the corrosion process. The use of bacteria in the concrete was to increase the pH of the concrete by producing urease enzyme. This technique may help to maintain concrete alkalinity in high levels, even when the carbonation process occurs, because the CO2 accelerates to the concrete and then converts directly to calcium carbonate, CaCO3. Consequently, the self-healing of the cracks and the pores occurred as a result of the carbonation process and bacteria enzyme reaction. As a result of these reactions, the concrete steel is protected, and the concrete properties and durability may improve. However, there are several factors that control carbonation which have been grouped into internal and external factors. Many studies on carbonation have been carried out to explore the effect of bacteria to improve durability and concrete strength. However, an in-depth literature review revealed that the use of bacteria as a self-healing mechanism can still be improved upon. This review aimed to highlight and discuss the possibility of applying bacteria in concrete to improve reinforcement concrete.

Blood Pressure Behavior After Correction Adult Coarctation of Aorta Short Term Follows Up.

BACKGROUND: Coarctation of aorta (CoA) is a relatively common congenital cardiac defect often causing few symptoms and therefore can be challenging to diagnose. Usually, untreated CoA may lead to a renal, vascular and cardiac complication that starts to appear at beginning of the fourth decade of life. Several methods have been proved as a modality for the treatment of CoA like balloon dilation, stenting, and surgery, etc. OBJECTIVE: To assess the hypertensive condition after endovascular stenting adult with CoA in short term follow up. METHODS: We report the outcome in 75 patients, out of these 30 male patients (40%) and 45 female patients (60%) were involved in this prospective longitudinal study, their age range between 16 to 41 years. Stenting of simple coarctation was performed on 75 patients at the Cardiology consult department in Al-najaf cardiac center or from a private clinic between January 2018 to January 2019. For the treatment of all patients, echocardiography, CT chest done to confirm diagnosis then all undergo catheterization of aorta with two sheaths one femoral and other radial to measure pressure gradient across the stenosis and stent localization follow by stenting with pre and post-dilation if needed then measure pressure gradient across stent. RESULTS: Out of 75 patients 69 patients (92%) returned for the 6-month follow-up evaluation and 53 patients (70%) returns for the 1-year follow-up evaluation with stent implantation, interrupted coarctation immediately after stent pressure gradient falls in almost all our patient. The patient returns at the time of 6 months and one year follow up, the assessment was done through CT angiography. At the time of six months, 39/69 patients (52%) and at the time of 1 year 18/45 patients (24%) show no aortic wall injury or aneurysm development. CONCLUSION: Uncovered stents appear to be safe in treating CoA with less morbidity and mortality. Stent adult with CoA hasthe advantage of lowering blood pressure in those suffering from hypertension.

Adult Aorta With Coarctation - One Year Follow Up.

BACKGROUND: Coarctation of the aorta (CoA), is a congenital disease in which the aorta is tightening, which occurs most commonly post to the ductus arteriosus. Also, coarctation can define as constriction of the aorta of different degrees that may occur at any part from the transverse arch of the aorta to iliac bifurcation but most commonly appear just below the beginning of the subclavian artery. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to evaluate mortality and morbidity rate among patients use uncover stents in treating adult coarctation of the aorta and short-term outcomes. METHODS: During the period from February 2018 to February 2020 patients with aortic coarctation who is age above 16 years old have been selected to enter this study. Patients were selected from patients visiting adult cardiology consultation rooms in Najaf cardiac center or from private clinics visiting patient, at the end of two years only 75 patients with Coarctation of the aorta has the eligibility to enter this study. RESULTS: All patients stent by uncovering stent including for 2 cases with interrupted coarctation, immediately after stent pressure gradient fall to less than 10 mmHg in almost all our patient then follow up 6 months, 1 year by angiography assessment with CT chest shows no stent fracture or aneurysm in the aorta at the stent site. CONCLUSION: Uncover stent appears to be safe in treating coarctation of the aorta with less morbidity and mortality.

Assessment of the Relationship between Dental Anxiety and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life.

BACKGROUND: Dental anxiety and fear are the frequently encountered entities among most of the patients. The present study was conducted to assess the relationship between dental anxiety and quality of life (QoL). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study comprised of 118 patients. Dental trait anxiety (dental anxiety scale [DAS] and short version of the dental anxiety inventory [S-DAI]), Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14), Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) score, and global assessment of functioning were recorded before and after treatment. RESULTS: Out of 118 patients, males were 52 and females were 56. There was a correlation between both oral health ratings and DMFT (P < 0.001). OHIP-14 total score was significantly associated with both dental anxiety measures. DMFT shows significant association with dental anxiety and oral health-related QoL (OH-QoL) (P < 0.05). The mean DAS score before treatment was 17.3 and after treatment was 12.60, S-DAI score was 40.1 and 31.5 before and after treatment respectively, oral health status (patient rating) was 38.4 and 74.20 before and after treatment respectively, oral health status (dentist rating) was 38.7 and 73.1 before and after treatment respectively and aesthetics (dentist rating) was 35.6 and 72.4 before and after treatment respectively. There was improvement of OH-QoL with dental anxiety reduction which was significantly significant (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Authors found that there is correlation between dental anxiety and fear with the poor oral health-related oral hygiene.