Libyan Open University Journal of Medical Sciences and Sustainability
The Libyan Open University Journal of Medical Sciences and Sustainability (ISSN: 3106-0331) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published biannually by the Libyan Open University. The journal focuses on various disciplines within medical sciences and sustainability. Contact and Submission Information Website: https://oujournals.ly/index.php/LOUJMSS/index Email: loujmss.editor@ou.edu.ly WhatsApp: 00218913426255 The website provides guidelines and templates for authors wishing to submit their work and includes information for readers and librarians. It also outlines the journal's policies, scope, and privacy statement. Individuals can also apply to be a member of the Editorial Board or a Reviewer.
Assessing the Human Health Risks of Heavy Metal Contamination in Groundwaters: A Comparative, Multi-Regional Study
Groundwater is an important source of drinking water in many rural and urban areas. This can include heavy metals from stone, industry, agriculture, mining, and plumbing. This paper compares human health hazards from arsenic, lead, cadmium, chromium, manganese, iron, and nickel in selected groundwater regions. The study used general data from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, China and Nigeria. World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and risk assessment methods are also used by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. No new field samples were taken. Therefore, this paper is a secondary data study and practical review. The results show that arsenic is the leading cause of cancer risk in South Asia. Bangladesh is facing significant exposure to arsenic in shallow wells. Pakistani studies show that arsenic levels are very high in some parts of Punjab. Under India's supervision, the national excise rates are low, but the affected areas are still prominent. China's data show that there is strong manganese and iron enrichment in the South Dongting Lake reservoir. Children had a higher risk index than adults. Nigerian data shows that there is a local abundance of lead, nickel and cadmium in Lagos' groundwater. Children are generally at higher risk because they drink more water per kilogram. The study recommends risk-based surveillance, treatment at home, safe exchange between wells, source control, and public reporting. It also supports periodic testing by ICP-MS or AAS where resources allow. The biggest limitation is that the datasets use different years and sample designs. However, this comparison shows clear public health priorities for groundwater conservation.
Groundwater, Heavy Metals, Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium, Chromium, Hazard Ratio, Cancer Risk, Public Health, South Asia
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing Groundwater Quality and Pollution Risk Using an Integrated Water Quality Index (WQI) and Spatial Mapping Approach
Groundwater is one of the most important sources of fresh water on Earth, and it supports drinking, farming, and industrial needs in many parts of the world. Despite its value, groundwater is facing growing pressure from human activity, weak waste handling, and natural rock interaction. This pressure leads to pollution that is often invisible until the water is tested. The present study brings together physicochemical data and the Water Quality Index (WQI) method to judge the drinking suitability of groundwater and to map pollution risk across space. Twelve common chemical parameters, namely pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, hardness, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride, sulfate, and nitrate, were used to build the index, following the weighted arithmetic method. Data drawn from a well-documented Middle Eastern aquifer system, covering 246 groundwater wells, were used as a real-world case to show how the method performs in practice. Results show that just over half of the samples fall in the good category, while a smaller share falls in the excellent class, and the rest show fair to poor quality, mostly because of high chloride, nitrate, and total dissolved solids levels. Spatial mapping points to farming activity and wastewater leakage as the leading drivers of pollution in the more affected zones. The paper proposes a practical, low-cost framework that links the WQI score to direct management actions, such as well protection, monitoring priority, and land-use control. This approach gives planners a single number that is easy to read, yet still backed by solid chemistry. The findings support wider use of WQI mapping as a routine tool for groundwater protection in regions facing similar pressure from agriculture, growing cities, and limited rainfall.
Groundwater Pollution; Water Quality Index; Spatial Mapping; Nitrate Contamination; Drinking Water; Aquifer Management; Physicochemical Parameters
Influence of Diabetes on Endometrial Gland Function and Early Embryonic Nutrition in Rats
This study examined how streptozotocin‑induced diabetes alters the carbohydrate composition of endometrial gland secretions during early pregnancy in rats. Four groups of adult female Wistar Albino rats weighing 250 to 300 g, with eight animals per group, were studied: diabetic pregnant, diabetic non‑pregnant, non‑diabetic pregnant, and non‑diabetic non‑pregnant control. Lectin histochemistry using Peanut Agglutinin (PNA) specific for β‑galactose, Wheat Germ Agglutinin (WGA) for β‑N‑acetylglucosamine and sialic acid, Concanavalin A (Con A) for α‑mannose, α‑glucose and α‑N‑acetylglucosamine, and Soy Bean Agglutinin (SBA) for α‑β N‑acetylgalactosamine was performed on uterine tissue collected on days five and seven of pregnancy or after cervical stimulation. Diabetic pregnant rats showed positive binding for Con A, PNA and SBA on day five with diminished WGA staining. By day seven this group maintained Con A and PNA positivity while SBA remained positive and WGA stayed weak. Non‑diabetic pregnant rats exhibited Con A, WGA and SBA binding on day five but lacked PNA staining; day seven samples showed only Con A and weak SBA positivity. Control animals displayed inconsistent lectin binding across time points. Conventional histochemical stains including Periodic Acid‑Schiff, Alcian Blue at pH 1.0 and 2.5, and aldehyde fuchsin produced no detectable staining in any group. Diabetes fundamentally alters the glycosylation profile of endometrial gland secretions, particularly inducing β‑galactose expression detected by PNA exclusively in diabetic animals. These changes may compromise histiotrophic nutrition during the critical pre‑implantation and early post‑implantation periods.
Diabetes mellitus; Endometrial glands; Lectin histochemistry; Early pregnancy; Rat model; Uterine secretions.
Reducing Oxidative Stress in in Vitro Rat Embryo Culture through Antioxidant Supplementation
In this study, we aimed to find out whether the use of either ascorbic acid or resveratrol added to KSOM R culture media affects developmental competence of one cell rat embryos by counteracting oxidative stress effects on them. One-cell embryos isolated from superovulated Wistar Albino rats were cultured for 4 days in KSOM R only (control) or in KSOM R containing 50 µM ascorbic acid, 100 µM ascorbic acid, 0.25 µM resveratrol or 0.50 µM resveratrol. The experiments were carried out four times. The 50 µM ascorbic acid group showed 77.3% cleavage rate which was higher than that observed in control group (61.9%) or 100 µM ascorbic acid group (62.6%), p<0.05. In terms of development beyond two cells stage, 50 µM ascorbic acid was more effective than 100 µM ascorbic acid (15.3%) and 0.25 µM resveratrol (13.6%) groups, p<0.05. There were no statistically significant differences between the degeneration rates of different experimental groups. The most appropriate superovulation procedure giving high quality embryos is 20 IU PMSG plus 30 IU hCG. Based on the results obtained, a moderate concentration of ascorbic acid (50 µM) enhances the early cleavage and further development of rat embryos under aerobic conditions, while a high concentration of ascorbic acid or resveratrol offered no added advantages.
Ascorbic acid; Resveratrol; Rat embryo culture; Oxidative stress; KSOM R; Preimplantation development
Prevalence , Patterns and Parental Awareness of Traditional Medicine Use in Pediatric Care in Tobruk , Libya
Background: Traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine (TCAM) use in pediatric care is widespread globally, yet contemporary data on usage patterns and parental awareness of associated risks remain limited. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and types of traditional medicine used for children, identify common conditions treated, examine motivating factors for guardians' choices, and assess parental health awareness—particularly regarding safety perceptions and the potential risk of delayed conventional medical consultation. Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 278 guardians of children aged 0–12 years in Tobruk, Libya, using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyze prevalence, treatment types, conditions, motivating factors, and health awareness variables. Results: The prevalence of traditional medicine use was 97.5% (271/278). Herbal remedies were the most common modality (41.3%), followed by oil therapy (20.3%) and honey (17.3%). Cough (36.9%), infantile colic (14.4%), and diarrhea (14.0%) were the predominant conditions treated. Parental/family advice (41.3%) and belief in efficacy (37.3%) were the primary motivators. While 77.1% consulted a physician prior to use and 83.8% perceived clinical improvement, a significant paradox emerged: 93.7% believed traditional medicine is safe for children, yet 87.5% acknowledged it may delay necessary medical consultation. Only 30.6% intended future use, and 90.0% expressed need for further education on safe usage. Conclusions: Traditional medicine use is nearly universal in this population for common acute pediatric illnesses. The widespread belief in inherent safety, coupled with awareness of potential care delays, represents a critical public health challenge. The high receptivity to education (90.0%) offers an actionable opportunity for culturally tailored interventions promoting safe, integrated pediatric care.
Studying the prevalence of leishmaniasis in the Yefren region
Due to the spread of leishmaniasis in most areas of northwestern Libya, including the Western Mountain region, at varying rates, this study was conducted. Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease transmitted between humans and animals through the bite of a female Sand fly (SF), a very small insect, no more than one-third the size of a regular mosquito. Given the increasing number of cases in the study area, it is considered a significant public health problem, resulting in human and material losses and lost working hours. This disease is a major public health concern in Libya. Therefore, this study was conducted in the Yefren area on 351 patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis who visited the center over three years (2022-2023-2024). The aim was to determine the prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the region and its relationship to age, gender, and the location of the infection on the body. The study also aimed to highlight the seriousness of the disease, limit its spread, and assess its impact on human health. Cases were tracked during the aforementioned period. The results showed that the highest infection rate occurred in 2024. (209) cases, representing (60%). The highest infection rate was in the age group of (51 years and above), with (75) cases representing (21.37%). The infection rate of leishmaniasis according to gender was higher in males than in females, at (61%) and (39%) respectively. These rates are consistent with a previous study in the Yefren region and differ from other studies.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis, sandfly, Yefren, and parasitic diseases
Microbiological and Physicochemical Assessment of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Hospital Wastewater: A Case Study from Sabratha Teaching Hospital, Libya
Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global public health crisis, with hospital wastewater increasingly recognized as a critical environmental reservoir of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Objective: This study aimed to assess the microbiological and physicochemical characteristics of hospital wastewater from Sabratha Teaching Hospital, Libya, and to evaluate their association with antibiotic resistance patterns. Methods: A descriptive analytical laboratory-based study was conducted between June and August 2025. Wastewater samples were collected from three major discharge points within the hospital sewage system. Bacterial isolation and identification were performed using standard microbiological techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was carried out according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) guidelines. Physicochemical parameters, including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and dissolved oxygen (DO), were analyzed. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, regression modeling, and time-series forecasting. Results: A total of 62 bacterial isolates representing six clinically significant genera were identified, with Escherichia coli being the predominant species. High levels of multidrug resistance (MDR) were observed, particularly among Pseudomonas spp. and Acinetobacter spp., with elevated Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Index (MARI) values in samples from intensive care and emergency units. Significant discrepancies were observed between CLSI and EUCAST interpretations. A strong positive correlation was found between COD and BOD, indicating high organic pollution. COD was negatively associated with antibiotic susceptibility, whereas DO showed a positive correlation. Multivariate analysis identified COD as the strongest predictor of resistance patterns. Conclusion: Hospital wastewater at Sabratha Teaching Hospital represents a significant hotspot for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Both microbiological and physicochemical factors contribute to resistance dynamics. These findings highlight the urgent need for wastewater treatment systems, continuous environmental surveillance, and integrated antimicrobial stewardship strategies to mitigate ecological and public health risks.
Antimicrobial resistance; hospital wastewater; multidrug-resistant bacteria; MARI; physicochemical parameters; CLSI; EUCAST; Libya
A survey study on the level of awareness and health culture of the importance of zinc some gentlemen and women in the Brak Al-Shati area
Background: Zinc is an important trace element with wide-ranging roles in maintaining human health. It is a component of numerous enzymes and is involved in cell division (DNA and protein synthesis), insulin activation, ovarian and testicular hormone metabolism, liver function, behavioral development, learning, wound healing, protection against heavy metal poisoning (such as lead), eye conditioning, and regulation of taste sensation. It is also important in energy production and the metabolism of protein, carbohydrate, and fat. Zinc is present in virtually all body fluids and tissues. Objective: To identify health and fitness indicators, including body mass index (BMI), metabolic rate, and behavioral and dietary habits among both male and female respondents. To identify the extent of health awareness regarding the importance of zinc among the respondents, as well as to identify some medical information related to zinc deficiency. Result: A survey study was conducted, randomly distributing 100 questionnaires to a sample of residents in the Brak Al Shati area, both men and women, to explore their health awareness of the importance of zinc. The responses were compiled and used to calculate body mass index (BMI). The BMI was within the normal range for both men and women (24.49-25.45%), respectively, while awareness of healthy eating and its importance was high in both respondents. Women were more likely to take nutritional supplements than men, at 46%, while the percentage of those infected with the coronavirus was 48% for men and 25% for women. One of the symptoms of zinc deficiency is noticeable hair loss, with the highest percentage among women, at 85%. Conclusion and Recommendations: Based on the responses of the surveyed group, full awareness of the importance of zinc is still lacking among the majority. Therefore, we recommend developing educational programs to increase health awareness of the dangers of zinc deficiency and disseminating the necessary information and guidance. It is recommended to eat a varied and balanced diet, including vegetables and whole grains, and to contain the necessary elements for the body. If you suffer from an autoimmune disease, hair loss, skin disease, or osteoporosis, you should have a blood test, including a zinc measurement, so that complementary treatment can be prescribed.
metabolic rate, body disorder, nutrients, malnutrition, health awareness
Drug-food interactions: Risk assessment and clinical management strategies to enhance medication safety
Drug-food interactions can change medicine exposure and clinical response. They can cause toxicity or treatment failure. Medication safety needs structured risk assessment and practical management steps. This paper reviews mechanisms and real, publicly available evidence. We used open full texts and regulator materials. We searched PubMed Central, DailyMed labels, and national safety alerts. We included crossover trials, prospective cohorts, and controlled laboratory digestion models. We extracted effect size, risk factors, and clinical advice statements. A crossover trial found grapefruit juice increased simvastatin exposure. Simvastatin AUC rose 3.6-fold in ten volunteers. Apple juice reduced fexofenadine exposure in a volume-dependent pattern. AUC ratios fell to 0.59 with 300 mL and 0.39 with 600 mL. A prospective cohort linked vitamin K intake patterns to poor warfarin control. Moderate vitamin K intake had the lowest predicted risk of low PTTR. Food increases rivaroxaban exposure at 15-20 mg doses. Product information reports a mean AUC rise of 39% with food. Tea consumed near levothyroxine dosing linked to higher TSH. Avoiding tea and coffee near dosing reduced TSH after three months. We propose a practical risk matrix. It uses interaction magnitude, drug vulnerability, and monitoring ease. We then give clinical strategies for prescribing, counselling, and follow-up. The approach supports safer therapy in community and hospital settings.
drug-food interactions; medication safety; risk assessment; pharmacokinetics; pharmacodynamics; patient counselling; pharmacovigilance
Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Among Administrative Staff at the University of Tripoli: A Cross-Sectional Study
Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common peripheral neuropathies, resulting from compression of the median nerve at the wrist. It represents an important occupational health concern, particularly among office employees exposed to prolonged computer use and repetitive hand activities. Despite increasing international evidence, data regarding CTS among office workers in Libya remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CTS-related symptoms and to examine their association with demographic and occupational factors among administrative staff at the University of Tripoli. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 162 administrative employees selected using probability-based sampling. Data were collected through a standardized questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, occupational exposure, CTS-related symptoms, functional manifestations, and symptom modifiers. CTS severity was classified into mild, moderate, and severe categories based on questionnaire scoring. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: CTS-related symptoms were commonly reported among participants, with 40.7% experiencing nocturnal wrist pain and 38.0% reporting nocturnal tingling or numbness. Mild CTS constituted the largest proportion of cases (46.7%), followed by moderate (36.7%) and severe CTS (16.6%). Female gender, increasing age, and combined manual and computer-based work were significantly associated with the presence of CTS symptoms (p < 0.05). Symptoms during daily activities were reported by 61.1% of participants, whereas improvement with wrist splint use was observed in only 26%. Conclusion: CTS represents a notable occupational health burden among administrative employees at the University of Tripoli. Female gender, older age, and prolonged computer use were identified as significant associated factors. These findings highlight the importance of early screening programs, ergonomic workplace interventions, and preventive occupational health strategies to reduce the risk and impact of CTS.
Isolation and Identification of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Zliten Medical Center
Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major concern in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) due to its resistance to β-lactam antibiotics and its capacity to cause severe infections in vulnerable newborns. Objective: This study aimed to isolate and identify MRSA in the NICU of Zliten Medical Center, Libya, assess its prevalence among neonates, healthcare workers (HCWs), and equipment, and evaluate antimicrobial susceptibility patterns. Methods: A total of 140 samples were collected from March to May 2025, comprising swabs from neonates (n=80), HCWs (n=22), and medical equipment (n=38). Identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) were performed using standard microbiological methods and the BD Phoenix automated system. Results: MRSA was detected in 3.6% of total samples (5/140), including two isolates from neonates (2.5%), two from HCWs (9.0%), and one from equipment (2.7%). All isolates exhibited absolute resistance (100%) to β-lactams, while remaining fully susceptible (100%) to Vancomycin, Linezolid, Daptomycin, and Teicoplanin. Conclusion: The relatively low overall prevalence should not diminish the clinical significance of MRSA in high-risk populations, particularly given the higher colonization rate among staff. These findings underscore the necessity for continuous surveillance, stringent infection control measures, and antimicrobial stewardship programs in Libyan NICUs to protect neonates and prevent the spread of resistant pathogens.
β-lactams, antibiotic susceptibility, MRSA, neonatal intensive care units, Zliten Medical Center
Incidence of Synechiae after Conventional Septoplasty Without Internal Splint: A Prospective Cohort Study
Background: Intranasal synechiae are common complications following septoplasty and can cause significant postoperative morbidity. While internal nasal splints are widely used to reduce this risk, they are often associated with patient discomfort and an increased risk of infection. Objective: To evaluate the incidence of synechiae formation following septoplasty performed without the use of intranasal splints. Study Design: A prospective observational cohort study was conducted on 100 patients undergoing conventional (non-endoscopic) septoplasty at two hospitals in Tripoli, Libya, between 2018 and 2024. All procedures utilized a standard hemitransfixion incision and concurrent inferior turbinate surgery. Short-duration glove-finger nasal packing (12–24 hours) was applied, and no internal nasal splints were used. Postoperative endoscopic assessment for synechiae was performed at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Results: Out of 100 patients (95 primary, 5 revision cases), only one patient (1%) developed synechiae, which required minor division in an outpatient setting. No recurrences were observed. The observed incidence was significantly lower than the commonly reported literature rate of approximately 10% (<span data-math="p < 0.0001" data-index-in-node="302">$p < 0.0001$; 95% CI: 0.18–5.45%). Conclusions: In this prospective cohort, septoplasty without internal splints was associated with a remarkably low rate of postoperative synechiae when combined with meticulous surgical technique and short-duration nasal packing. These findings suggest that routine splinting may not be necessary for all patients and support a reconsideration of their use in evidence-based postoperative care.v
Detection of Bacterial and fungal contamination in shared cosmetic products used in some beauty women's salons in Benghazi
This study aims to identify the microbial contamination of in-use skin and eye cosmetics available as public makeup kits in beauty salons. A total of 120 samples were included in this cross-sectional study, collected from 15 randomly selected beauty salons across different regions of Benghazi between July and December 2024. Samples were transported to the laboratory under sterile conditions and examined to identify bacterial and fungal species. The results revealed that all tested cosmetics were contaminated, with bacteria found in 76.4% of samples and fungi/yeast in 23.5%. Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Candida were the dominant species isolated. The highest rate of microbial contamination was found in skin products (50%), while the lowest was in eye products (26.5%). Regarding fungal contamination, cream-based products showed the highest rate (70.8%), followed by mascara (20.8%), lip gloss (16.6%), and brushes (11.5%). The findings indicate that shared cosmetic products in beauty salons are heavily contaminated with various microorganisms. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to avoid sharing cosmetic tools and products, refrain from using public makeup in salons, and ensure that products are stored in dry, appropriate conditions.
Contamination, Cosmetic products, Beauty salons, Benghazi
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Relationship Between Hematocrit (HCT) and Heart Failure
Heart failure is often accompanied by anemia, which can lead to impaired oxygen supply and serious consequences. Hematocrit (HCT) is an important measure of red blood cell volume and disease severity. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of low hematocrit in heart failure patients and its association with hemodilution, iron deficiency, functional status, and clinical outcomes. Fifty heart failure patients at Mitiga Heart Hospital in Tripoli, Libya, participated in a cross-sectional study. Data collected included demographics, NYHA classification, comorbidities, medications, laboratory markers (hematocrit, hemoglobin, ferritin, transferrin saturation, BNP), and echocardiography (LVEF, LVEDD). The relationship between hematocrit, iron status, hemodilution, and clinical outcomes was studied using descriptive statistics and percentages. Fifty-eight percent of patients had low hemoglobin levels (HCT) (<35%), with the majority being elderly (mean age 61.2 ± 11.4 years) and NYHA class III-IV patients (44%). Thirty-six percent (ferritin <100 ng/mL) and 28% (TSAT <20%) had iron deficiency. Forty percent of patients experienced hemodilation, often accompanied by edema and weight gain. Only 24% of patients received iron supplementation and 12% received erythropoietin despite following guidelines. Anemia was strongly associated with poor outcomes, as evidenced by increased hospitalization rates (32%) and all recorded deaths (6%) among patients with low HCT. Low HCT is very common in heart failure patients and is associated with worse clinical outcomes, iron deficiency, hemodilation, and disease progression. To improve prognosis, targeted therapies, iron status assessment, and routine HCT monitoring are crucial. Further research is needed to confirm this effect. 36% (ferritin <100 ng/mL) and 28% (TSAT <20%) were iron deficient. 40% of patients experienced hemolysis, often accompanied by edema and weight gain. To improve prognosis, targeted therapies, iron status assessment, and periodic monitoring with hematopoietic stem cell imaging (HCT) are crucial. Further research is needed to determine how anemia correction affects survival and functional capacity.
Evaluation of the Antibacterial Effect of Aqueous Extracts of Nigella sativa and Lepidium sativum on Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella Spp
This study aimed to evaluate the inhibitory effects of aqueous extracts from Nigella sativa (black seed) and Lepidium sativum (garden cress) against two clinically important bacterial species: Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella spp. Aqueous extracts at different concentrations (55%, 75%, and 100%) were prepared and tested using the disk diffusion method to assess their antimicrobial activity. The results showed that both plant extracts exhibited notable antibacterial effects, with higher concentrations demonstrating stronger inhibition zones. Staphylococcus aureus showed greater sensitivity to the extracts compared to Klebsiella spp., likely due to differences in their cell wall structures. The study highlighted the potential of these plant extracts as natural alternatives to synthetic antibiotics. However, further studies are required to confirm their safety and clinical efficacy.
Evaluation of the Role of a Healthy Lifestyle in Promoting Mental and Physical Health among Students of the Faculty of Medical Technology in Surman
This study aimed to evaluate the role of a healthy lifestyle in promoting mental and physical health among students of the Faculty of Medical Technology in Surman, Sabratha University. A descriptive-analytical approach was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire distributed to a sample of 100 students. The study investigated the relationship between healthy lifestyle dimensions, such as balanced nutrition, physical activity, and stress management, and the two components of health: physical and mental health. The results indicated a significant and positive role for a healthy lifestyle in enhancing both the mental and physical health status of the students. Specifically, a statistically significant correlation was found between the consistent practice of healthy lifestyle behaviors and higher levels of well-being and health responsibility among the student population. The study concluded that promoting and supporting healthy lifestyle practices are crucial for improving the overall health of university students. The researchers recommend developing and integrating comprehensive health promotion programs into the university curriculum to encourage the adoption of healthier habits.
Transforming Healthcare Through Artificial Intelligence: From Predictive Diagnostics to Personalized Therapeutics
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing medicine by enabling earlier detection of disease and tailoring treatments to individual patients. In healthcare, machine learning and deep learning can analyze complex data from images, genetic tests, and electronic records to predict illness before symptoms appear and to design personalized therapies. For example, AI algorithms now detect cancers in medical images as accurately as specialists and identify which patients will best respond to a drug. This paper reviews recent advances in AI-powered diagnostics and treatment. We discuss AI in radiology and pathology, AI models using electronic health data, and AI-driven genomics and drug discovery. Ethical and practical challenges such as data bias, privacy, and clinical validation are also addressed. Finally, we present representative experiments using public datasets (e.g. cancer diagnostics) and survey real-world deployments. The evidence shows AI systems can significantly improve accuracy and efficiency in medical decision-making, paving the way for more predictive and personalized healthcare.
Global Trends in Cardiovascular Mortality and Risk Factors: Insights from WHO and Global Burden of Disease Data
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading global killer, causing an estimated 19.8 million deaths (32% of all deaths) in 2022. Although CVD mortality rates have declined in many countries due to improved prevention and treatment, population growth and aging have driven the total number of deaths upward from ~14 million in 2000 to ~18 million by 2019. Major risk factors including tobacco use, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and air pollution continue to fuel the CVD burden. This study compiles and analyzes recent data from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study, the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-RisC), and related sources to characterize global trends in CVD mortality and modifiable risk factors from 1990 to the latest year available. We describe data sources and methods, present global and regional CVD mortality trends, highlight disparities across WHO regions and income groups, and examine country-level changes. We also analyze trends in major risk factors (tobacco, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, air pollution) and their associations with CVD mortality. Our results show substantial declines in age-standardized CVD death rates in high-income regions, but rising or stagnating rates in parts of Asia and Africa. Countries with high smoking rates or uncontrolled hypertension have smaller mortality gains. The findings underscore the urgent need for strengthened prevention and control of risk factors in low- and middle-income countries to meet global targets. Key strategies include tobacco control, blood pressure screening and treatment, obesity/diabetes prevention, and reducing air pollution.
Effectiveness of Standardized Nursing Protocols in Reducing Hospital-Acquired Infections in Intensive Care Units
Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) pose a serious threat to patient safety, especially in intensive care units (ICUs). HAIs such as catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), and central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) cause substantial morbidity and mortality. Standardized nursing protocols including daily chlorhexidine bathing, catheter removal rules, and care bundles have been proposed to prevent HAIs. This study analyzes data from a large tertiary ICU before and after implementing such protocols. Results show significant reductions in HAI rates following protocol use. For example, CLABSI rates fell by over 50%, and CAUTI rates dropped by ~60% post-intervention. Nurse compliance with protocols improved over time. These findings align with published studies: Pronovost et al. reported a 66% CLABSI reduction with a checklist-based intervention, and Tyson et al. observed CAUTI rates fall from 5.1 to 2.0 per 1000 catheter-days after a nurse-driven protocol. The study confirms that nursing protocols, when properly implemented and monitored, effectively reduce ICU infection rates.
Deep Learning for Early Detection and Classification of Diabetic Retinopathy in Clinical Practice
Early detection of diabetic retinopathy (DR) is crucial to prevent vision loss. In recent years, deep learning has revolutionized automated DR screening by learning complex retinal patterns. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are commonly used to extract spatial features from fundus images, while some advanced models also incorporate sequential analysis (e.g. RNNs) to track disease progression over time. In this paper, we review and develop deep learning frameworks for DR detection, focusing on CNN and hybrid CNN-RNN models. We conducted experiments on publicly available datasets (EyePACS/Kaggle, APTOS, Messidor, DRIVE) to evaluate model performance. Our deep CNN and transfer-learning models achieve high sensitivity and specificity. For example, a hybrid CNN-LSTM model (TAHDL) attains ~97-99% accuracy across datasets. We also propose a lightweight CNN (RSG-Net) that classifies DR into multiple grades with 99.4% accuracy on Messidor. Key factors include preprocessing (contrast enhancement, augmentation) and addressing data imbalance. These models can assist clinicians by providing fast, reliable DR screening.
Advanced Laboratory Diagnostics and Data Visualization for Early Detection and Prognosis of Infectious Diseases
Early detection and prognosis of infectious diseases greatly improve patient outcomes and control of epidemics. This paper reviews cutting-edge laboratory diagnostic technologies and data visualization tools that enhance early disease detection and tracking. It covers molecular tests (PCR, sequencing), immunological assays (ELISA, rapid tests), and novel methods like CRISPR-based diagnostics. We discuss how visual analytics (dashboards, GIS maps, graphs) help interpret lab data for clinicians and public health professionals. For example, real-time COVID-19 dashboards have guided policy by showing case trends. We illustrate tools with examples and publicly available data. A case study using open COVID-19 datasets demonstrates a combined PCR and CRISPR testing workflow with geospatial mapping. Finally, we examine challenges like cost, data integration, and data privacy. This integrated approach can reduce delays, support clinical decisions, and aid outbreak control.