Highlights of IJMBS Issue 4 of 2025

It is with great pleasure that we present Issue 4 of the Ibnosina Journal of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (IJMBS), showcasing a diverse selection of original research, case reports, and conference proceedings that reflect the journal's mission to amplify regionally relevant, globally resonant medical scholarship.

This issue opens with a comprehensive and timely review, “Ramadan fasting in health and disease: A concise review of the 2024 literature.” The review synthesizes recent findings on the physiological, clinical, and psychosocial dimensions of Ramadan fasting, drawing on 66 carefully selected studies published in 2024. Notably, the article illuminates how fasting influences metabolic health, gut microbiota, circadian regulation, and even professional medical practice. The second review is a comprehensive presentation of the scientific basis and practical use of photodynamic therapy for head and neck cancers. It particularly highlights the therapy as a novel, patient-friendly solution.

Miftah and colleagues present “Patterns and outcomes of nodular thyroid disease in Benghazi, Libya.” Based on 227 cases seen at two major endocrine clinics, this study offers a rare clinic-based perspective from Libya, complementing existing histopathology-driven data. The authors report a high prevalence of multinodular goiter and a notable malignancy rate among surgically treated cases—most commonly papillary thyroid carcinoma.

The two case reports take us to a rare and striking vascular case in “Complete transection of the superficial femoral artery from blunt trauma without fracture,” reported by Tarhuni et al. This cautionary tale serves as a clinical reminder of the diagnostic vigilance needed when managing trauma cases. Equally thought-provoking is the case report by Alshamsi and Afandi, “Circadian rhythm disruption presenting as adrenal insufficiency.” This case illustrates how misinterpretation of cortisol testing—when not contextualized within a patient's circadian profile—can lead to potential diagnostic errors.

This issue concludes with the “Abstracts of the Free Communications of the 11th Libyan Cardiac Society Congress (CardioLibya 11),” a testament to the vitality and growth of cardiovascular research within the region. Held in Tripoli and in collaboration with pan-Arab and international partners, the conference featured a wide array of presentations spanning congenital heart disease, imaging modalities, cardiac surgery, and system-level innovations. This compendium reflects both academic rigor and collaborative spirit and provides a platform for emerging voices in cardiovascular science.

As this issue demonstrates, Ibnosina Journal of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences continues to foster interdisciplinary exchange and elevate the profile of research emerging from Libya and the broader region. We commend our authors for their contributions and invite readers to engage with the content, apply its insights in clinical practice, and pursue new avenues of inquiry inspired by these works.

Conflict of Interest

None declared.

Author Contributions

Single.

Compliance with Ethical Principles

Ethical approval is not required.

Publication History

Article published online:
31 December 2025