Iraqi Journal of Science (IJS) is a blind peer-reviewed open access journal issued by the College of Science at the University of Baghdad. It is a monthly journal that publishes original research articles in a wide range of subjects. The prestigious interdisciplinary editorial board in the journal reflects the diversity of subjects covered in the journal. The journal is being published since 1956. The journal is basically self-financed by applying fees on the researcher's work published in the journal. However, the journal is also supported by the college of science at the University of Baghdad.
College of Science - University of Baghdad
Geophysical Study to the Role of Salt in Creating BuzurganOilfield Structure, Southeast of Iraq.
This paper is an attempt to study the relation between the creation of Buzurgan oilfield structures and the role of salt in forming these structures. The study depends on the available surface geophysical data, namely; seismic reflection, gravity and magnetic data. Seismic reflection profiles show clearly how the salt of Al-Fatha Formation (evaporite) plays a clear role in creating the relatively shallow anticlinal structures of Buzurgan oilfield, in addition to the effect of the lateral stresses resulted from the collision between Arabian and Iranian plates. Gravity and magnetic data interpretations indicate that there are similar probable anticlinal structures may occur in deeper formations due to the effect of Gotnia and Hormuz salt, where these salts are piercing upward by buoyant forces resulting from the density contrast between these formations and the heavier rocks above them. Depth of the basement rocks are found to be ranged between 11.7 to 12.4 Km measured from gravity and magnetic data respectively.
Copyright (c) 2026 Iraqi Journal of Science https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Transition State interaction between Tin-Dioxide and Water using the Density Functional Theory (DFT)
Tin dioxide Sn10O16 clusters reaction with water H2O is examined utilizing the transition state method and Density Functional Theory (DFT) with (B3LYP) level and two basis set SDD for heavy atoms such as (Sn) and 6-311G** for light atoms, such as (O, H). Gaussian 09W program is used to calculate electronic properties like (HOMO, LUMO) levels, energy gap, density of state. Spectroscopic properties, such as IR and Raman in addition, the thermodynamic features, such as Gibbs free energy, enthalpy, and entropy. In order to study reaction and activation, Gaussian View 05 is used for geometrical structure optimization. It was found that an increase in conductivity results from a decrease in the energy gap of tin dioxide in water. The Gibbs free energy of the interaction of tin dioxide with water is positive which indicates that the reaction is endergonic, and the process of reaction could be photocatalysis with a photon energy of 3.7 eV.
A Study of Some Physiological and Immunological Parameters in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Treated with Glucovance and Metformin
This study was designed to investigate and compare the physiological and immunological outcomes of Glucovance and Metformin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The research was carried out between March 4 and September 4, 2025, at Baghdad Hospital, Medical City, Iraq. A total of 75 male participants, aged 40–50 years and weighing 65–120 kg, were recruited and divided into three equal groups: Group 1 (n = 25) received Glucovance for five years, Group 2 (n = 25) received Metformin for five years, and Group 3 (n = 25) served as healthy controls. The evaluated parameters included fasting glucose (FGS), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), adiponectin (ADP), interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-23 (IL-23), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and vitamin B12. Blood samples were collected, stored at −20 °C, and analyzed using ELISA kits. The results revealed no significant differences between the two drug groups regarding HbA1c, FGS, and vitamin B12, although both showed significantly higher levels compared to the controls. ADP concentrations were markedly elevated in the Glucovance group, while IL-17 levels increased in the Metformin group. The levels of IL-23 were significantly higher in the Glucovance group compared to both the Metformin and the control groups. TAC values also differed significantly between the drug-treated groups, with both exceeding control values. These findings suggest that although Glucovance and Metformin provide comparable glycemic regulation, they differ in their immunological and oxidative stress profiles. Both treatments enhance insulin sensitivity and modulate immune responses, supporting their role in refining therapeutic strategies for T2DM management.
Using TOPSIS Technology to Solve Multi-Objective Gravitational Search Algorithm Based on Supply Planning
Multi-objective evolutionary (MOE) algorithms have encountered difficulties when calculating big data improvement issues. Initial conditions are multiple pre-existing conditions that contribute to a particular situation. We propose a novel procedure for computing the single goal gravity issue using multi-objective gravity search. GSA is an evolutionary algorithm derived and designed derived from the rule of attraction and weight, and represents a system of elements where each element gives rise to other components by applying a gravitational force. The study aims to achieve the best solution to the optimization problem for input parameters ranging from 0 to 1. The review presents three scenarios: Simulation, a MOGSA, and a single goal gravity search method. The three-part evaluation method, MOGSA, is an extension of GSA designed to address process optimization problems. While GSA identifies a single optimal solution, MOGSA seeks multiple solutions. This paper includes: 1) A description of the algorithm's criteria for validating its effectiveness, 2) An evaluation of the method's effectiveness using means and standard deviations, and 3) An evaluation of the algorithm itself. The results and improvements validate that MOGSA effectively competes with the latest technology analytical together with traditional methods.
Estimating Scabies Severity by Epidemiological and Clinical Survey of Baghdad Governorate Patients and Assessing Blood Immune Antibody Levels
Scabies is a parasitic infestation caused by tiny mites Sarcoptes scabiei. Scabies can lead to skin ulcers and serious complications such as septicemia (bloodstream infection), heart disease and kidney problems. Therefore, scabies is considered a dangerous infectious disease that must be treated when diagnosed. The current study aimed to conduct a survey of scabies patients of both genders, examining the role of humoral immunity by estimating certain immunoglobulins (IgM and IgG) and their effect on the patients. However, this study involved the collection of blood specimens from a group of 67 patients with scabies and a control. The results showed infected male more than female with a non-significant difference, the values were 20 (57.14%) and 15 (42.86%) respectively, and the largest age group affected of <30 was 17 (48.57% ) while the lowest age group of >40 was 5 (14.29%), the majority of those infected were primary school students (12, 34.4%), while the lowest percentage were university graduates (6, 17.1%). Regarding the patient's job, the most affected group was freelancers, at 15 (42.8%), while the lowest percentage was among housewives, at 3 (8.7%). Additionally, the results showed a high significance between patients from agricultural cities and those from civilian towns, with percentages of 23 (65.7%) and 12 (34.3%), respectively. Although most cases of infection were of the mild and papular type 22 (62.8%) and 23 (65.7%), respectively, more than severe and nodular type 13(37.2%) and 12 (34.3%), respectively, the affected area of patients was the entire body (more than three affected organs) in high percentage (15, 42.8%), whereas the lowest value of slight area was 4 (11.5%). Finally, the immunological results showed an increase in the IgM levels in the scabies patients (3.809 ± 0.23) compared to the healthy group (1.269 ± 0.06), and the results also showed an increase in the IgG levels in the patients (12.51 ± 0.53) compared to the healthy group (7.61 ± 0.28).
The Influence of Thallium Halide on Improving Arc Discharge Properties under Atmospheric Pressure
In this work, a comprehensive numerical analysis was conducted to investigate the effect of cathode surface temperature (Tw) on several key plasma parameters. These include the electron energy flux density(qe), the emitted electron energy flux density (qem​), the total plasma current density (j), and its individual components: electron current density (je​), ion current density (ji ), and thermionically emitted electron current density (jem). The relationship between the electron temperature in the plasma (Te) ​and the cathode surface temperature (Tw​) was also examined, as this interaction plays a crucial role in defining surface reactions and overall plasma behavior. The simulations were carried out using pure xenon and a xenon–thallium gas mixture at different thallium concentrations (0.001, 0.01, and 0.1 mol.) under two applied voltages: 20 V and 40 V. Results indicated that the optimal performance was achieved with pure xenon at an applied voltage of 20 V. This is attributed to the higher ionization energy of xenon, which leads to greater electron energy and current densities compared to the Xe-Tl mixtures. Additionally, plasma operation at the lower voltage of 20 V was found to be more efficient than at 40 V, as it promotes greater stability in both electron energy and current density. This, in turn, enhances the overall plasma performance and energy efficiency of the system. These findings underscore the importance of carefully selecting the gas composition, applied voltage, and cathode temperature to optimize the discharge process, particularly in applications requiring stable plasma operation and high efficiency output, such as advanced lighting systems.
Assessment of the Potential Impact of Some Micronutrient Deficiencies on Celiac Disease Severity
This study explored the levels of vitamin B12, D3, calcium, zinc, and ferritin in patients with celiac disease (CD) and their clinical relevance. Fifty CD patients (25 males and 25 females: aged 15 to 47) from Baghdad Teaching Hospital and 20 healthy controls were enrolled. Detection of antibodies was performed using ELISA, while micronutrient levels were quantified through photoelectrochemistry and photolysis. CD patients revealed significantly higher levels of anti-gliadin and anti-tissue antibodies (p < 0.001) compared to controls. In contrast, significantly reduced levels of vitamin D3, vitamin B12, zinc, calcium, and ferritin were observed (p < 0.001). Age-stratified analysis showed that patients aged 15–25 years exhibited reduced levels of ferritin, calcium, and vitamin B12, whereas individuals aged 26–35 years demonstrated the most pronounced deficiency in vitamin D3. These deficiencies correlated negatively with anti-tissue IgA, suggesting a potential contribution to disease severity. The findings propose that micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent in CD and may affect its pathogenesis, emphasizing the importance of initial nutritional assessment and management in individuals affected by the condition.
Unravelling the Impact of Aberrant Expression of LncRNA-H19 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a highly aggressive hematologic malignancy marked by the proliferation of abnormal myeloid precursors. Despite therapeutic developments, the prognosis for AML patients remains poor, primarily due to high relapse frequencies and resistance to chemotherapy. Molecular alterations are a hallmark of AML pathogenesis and are believed to impact clinical outcomes. The long non-coding RNA H19 is one of the newly identified molecular biomarkers that has emerged as a crucial regulator of leukemogenesis. In this study, H19 expression levels were analysed in 60 Iraqi de novo AML patients and 30 healthy controls to assess the prognostic significance. H19 expression levels were assessed using quantitative Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction and then linked to overall survival, treatment response, and clinical features. Results indicated that H19 expression increased progressively from responders to non-responders and deceased patients (p < 0.0001). Longer survival and optimized response to treatment have been attributed to lower H19 expression. Kaplan-Meier analysis confirmed that high H19 expression is significantly associated with lower overall survival (p < 0.0001), and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed attractive diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.831). In conclusion, H19 represents a promising molecular biomarker for predicting prognosis and treatment response in AML. Its clinical integration could enhance patient risk stratification and support the development of personalized therapeutic strategies.
Secure Electronic Healthcare Records (SEHR) Using Blockchain Model based on Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC)
This paper proposes a blockchain-based system for managing Electronic Health Records (EHR) to address patient demands for immediate access to health information while ensuring privacy and security. It introduces a framework that includes five key entities: Registration Centre (RC), Patients, Doctors, Mobile Devices, and Blockchain (BC), and emphasizes the use of Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) for enhanced security.The system utilizes a decentralized blockchain platform to securely store patient data and carry out operations, employing smart contracts for efficient and secure transactions. Access through the MetaMask wallet allows authorized users, such as doctors and patients, to easily manage and retrieve records while maintaining privacy. The approach aims to improve efficiency, trust, and security in health data storage and transfers.Overall, the proposed solution enhances interoperability, auditability, and automation while ensuring data privacy and security, demonstrating its viability across various blockchain networks.
Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC), Electronic Healthcare Records (EHR)
Pro and Anti-inflammatory Cytokine Variations Arising from Bifidobacterium Occurrence in Diarrheal Infants
The gut microbiota represents a sophisticated ecosystem of microorganisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract and play a crucial part in maintaining human health, among which Bifidobacterium is a vital member. This study aims to investigate the impact of Bifidobacterium incidence on different pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in infants suffering from diarrhea. 140 infants with diarrhea and 20 healthy infants below 2 years of age were enrolled in this study. For the isolation of Bifidobacterium, fecal samples were cultivated on the selective media under anaerobic conditions. The levels of interleukins (IL-10, IL-4, and 1L-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF- α) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) were measured using the ELISA technique. IL-4, IL-6 and TNF- α were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in diarrheal infants, with medians of 17.549, 3.492, and 23.055 pg/ml, respectively, than in their counterpart healthy ones, 15.057, 2.557, and 1.945 pg/ml, respectively. According to the results, both of IL-10 and TNF-α significantly decreased in diarrheal infants harboring Bifidobacterium compared to those without Bifidobacterium (4.52 vs. 7.467; 9.87 vs. 30.5 pg/ml, respectively). It has been proven that Bifidobacterium enhances the immune system by decreasing TNF-α and IL-10 levels in infants with diarrhea, making it a potentially powerful immunological booster.
Evaluating the Level of IL-22 and Gene Expression of miRNA-146 in Iraqi Patients with Wound and Burn Injury and Bacterial Infection
Impaired and chronic wound healing (WH) is a prevalent and serious medical issue, and it poses a significant challenge to public health since WH is an essential physiological process that maintains skin integrity. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum levels of IL-22 and the gene expression of miRNA-146 in Iraqi patients with wound and burn injuries, to determine their potential as diagnostic biomarkers. In total, 300 blood samples were collected: 200 samples from wound and burn patients, and 100 samples as a control group were collected from healthy individuals. The ELISA technique was used to measure the serum level of IL-22. In addition, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to quantify the gene expression level of miRNA-146. Clinical biomarkers showed a significant increase (p-value ≤ 0.05) in all biomarkers that include white blood cell, red blood cell, neutrophil, lymphocyte, platelets, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Also, the levels of IL22 were significantly increased in the patients' group (p-value < 0.01), which was 6.123 pg/mL compared to the healthy control group, which was 3.802 pg/mL. Molecular evaluation using RT-qPCR demonstrated a marked downregulation in miRNA-146 expression in patients (0.207 ± 0.043) compared to controls (1.0 ± 0.0), indicating approximately an 80% reduction in fold expression.
Influence of gas flow rate on spectroscopic characterization of Cu-Zn Alloy plasma by OES
In this work, a plasma jet system generated in a deionized aqueous medium was studied. A locally manufactured copper-zinc alloy with a ratio of 80:20 was used for this purpose, and a bidirectional power supply with a total output of 20 kV and a cutoff frequency of 30 kHz was used. The gas flow rate was varied at 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, and 5 liters per minute (L/min) while the voltage was kept constant at 13 kV. The emission lines of the copper-zinc alloy elements and gases were determined in the range of 200 to 1000 nm. Key plasma parameters, such as the particle number in the Debye sphere, plasma frequency, and Debye length, as well as the most important parameters, such as electron density and temperature, were then calculated. The study concluded that increasing the gas flow rate increased the plasma emission. The maximum peak for argon gas under the operating conditions used at the highest flow value was 811.5311 nm. Alloy element emissions appeared in the wavelengths between 200 and 300 nm. A decrease in electron temperature was observed with increasing gas flow rate, reaching its highest value at the highest gas flow rate used, reaching 0.703 eV. In contrast, a clear increase in electron density was observed with increasing gas flow rate. This behavior indicates that the interaction between the plasma and the surrounding environment, as well as the ionization dynamics, strongly depends on the gas flow rate. These results provide valuable insights into the role of flow rate in shaping plasma properties such as emission intensity, as well as temperature and electron density, which are critical for improving the performance of plasma-based applications.
Immunological Consequences of rs5742621 Variant and IGF-1 in Modulating MIF, IL-27, and CXCL12 Expression in Individuals with Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common cancer among men worldwide. Immunological biomarkers play a crucial role in disease diagnosis, progression, and treatment. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the rs5742621 (A>G) genetic variant and serum levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and other cytokines in patients with PCa compared to healthy controls. A total of 204 patients with PCa (aged 48–80) and 196 healthy controls were enrolled. Blood samples were collected to genotype the rs5742621 variant using the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR). Serum levels of IGF1, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), CXC motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12), and interleukin-27 (IL-27) were measured using a sandwich immunoassay. The heterozygous GA genotype of rs5742621 was more prevalent among patients with PCa, while the AA genotype was more prevalent in healthy controls. Additionally, serum IGF-1 levels were significantly elevated in PCa patients (median: 110 pg/mL) compared to healthy controls (median: 65 pg/mL; p < 0.001). Similarly, MIF levels were higher in PCa patients (85 pg/mL vs. 45 pg/mL; p < 0.001), as were CXCL12 concentrations (140 pg/mL vs. 40 pg/mL; p < 0.001). In contrast, IL-27 levels were lower in PCa patients (40 pg/mL) than in controls (65 pg/mL; p < 0.001). ROC curve analysis demonstrated that CXCL12 and MIF both achieved perfect diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 1.0), while IGF1 showed excellent diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.979) and IL-27 showed good performance (AUC = 0.903). The GA genotype of rs5742621 was significantly associated with elevated IGF-1 levels and increased PCa risk, promoting cell proliferation, inhibiting apoptosis, and accelerating tumor growth. IGF-1 and related immunological markers may serve as promising diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for prostate cancer.
Evaluation of the Contribution of Domestic Cooling Systems to the Reuse of Extracted Atmospheric Moisture to Support Agricultural Water
This study was conducted to evaluate the quantitative and qualitative aspects of condensate water generated by household air conditioners and its potential use as an alternative source for irrigating home crops. The study was conducted at 12 stations within Baghdad during the summer of 2023. Water samples were collected daily for 8 hours, at a rate of four samples per month. According to the findings, the quantity of condensed water ranged from 1.31 liters in June to 2.08 liters in August, the latter representing the maximum value. A positive correlation was found between the amount of water produced and temperature and relative humidity, a correlation coefficient of R=0.688 for temperature and a p-value of 0.058803, and R=0.659 for humidity with a p-value of 0.075266 at p<0.05. A qualitative assessment of water quality was conducted through measuring pH, (6.5 to 7.79), total dissolved solids (TDS: 20–483 mg/L), and electrical conductivity (EC: 38–1119 µS/cm). Chloride ion concentrations and total hardness ranged from 0.01 to 0.06 mg/L and 30 to 70 mg/L, respectively. Sodium concentrations fluctuated between 0.9 and 37.8 mg/L, while calcium and magnesium each averaged 36 mg/L. Lead levels ranged from 0.003 to 0.056 mg/L, and iron concentrations from 0.07 to 28 mg/L.The study concluded that the air conditioning water can be used to irrigate domestic crops in terms of quantity, and its chemical properties are generally consistent with local and international specifications, except for its lack of essential nutrients necessary for plant growth.
Novel Nitric Oxide-Releasing Polyvinyl Alcohol Films for Disrupting Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilms
Novel nitric oxide (NO)-releasing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films were prepared by blending sodium nitroprusside (SNP), which serves as an NO donor, into a PVA solution. The microtiter plate (MTP) was used to measure the biofilm-forming capacity of eight Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates on PVA film-coated MTP, MTP coated with nitric oxide-releasing PVA films, and catheters coated with NO-releasing PVA films. The qPCR was employed to determine the effect of PVA, nitric oxide, and NO mixed with PVA on the gene expressions of pslA, pelA, algD, nirS, and bdlA genes. All isolates developed strong biofilms on uncoated MTP, with a highly significant decrease on NO- releasing-PVA film-coated MTP and catheters coated with NO-releasing-PVA film compared to PVA film-coated MTP and uncoated MTP. Significant downregulation of pelA and pslA expression was determined upon exposure to the SNP-PVA and SNP alone. However, algD displayed insignificant downregulation after exposure to the SNP-PVA blend and SNP alone versus the PVA solution. Furthermore, nirS and bdlA exhibited insignificant upregulation after exposure to SNP-PVA and SNP alone versus the PVA solution.
Genetic and Molecular Evolutionary Analysis of Iraqi Figs Using ITS Sequences Compared to some International Cultivars
This study aimed to investigate the genetic variability and molecular evolution of Iraqi figs (Ficus carica L., family Moraceae) compared to some worldwide reference sequences. Upon internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence data analysis, the results indicated variation in the guanine-cytosine content (GC-content) ranging from 61.83% to 64.52%, with an average of 63.34%. Transitions seemed to occur less frequently than transversions in this region, where the overall bias R for transition/transversion has been calculated to be 0.551. Eight haplotypes have been identified from the 17 matched reference sequences under study, and the aligned sequences associated with the ITS allowed us to identify 64 polymorphic sites, 60 of which were singleton variables and 4 of which were parsimony- informative. A random distribution independent of provenance was observed in overall fig accessions in the neighbour-joining (NJ) tree. Argentine, Tunisian, and United Kingdom (UK) figs have the most genetic diversity (substitution), with a divergence distance of 0.05. This finding was further supported by principal components analysis (PCA) and the haplotype network. The first three of the PCA described 64.36% of the total variance. Molecular evolution tests revealed that the worldwide figs had demographic expansion under a perfectly neutral model in a population that was in equilibrium until the 9th generation.
A Novel Image Decomposition Employing Gaussian Curvature based Edge preserving Filter for Brain Tumor Detection through Image Fusion
The process of combining images from multiple medical imaging sources without any distortion or loss of information is known as medical image fusion. It improves the usefulness of medical imaging for the diagnosis and treatment of medical issues by maintaining every feature in the fused image. Recent years have seen the introduction of many image fusion techniques that show the significant progress in the field of medical diagnosis. However, the fusion performance of these contemporary methods is prone to distortion, noise, and blurring. To address these drawbacks of the current methods, this work presents a novel fusion methodology for a visually pleasing appearance. Using Gaussian curvature and guided filters, a new decomposition technique with an edge-preserving smoother is firstly described. The primary objective of this approach is to preserve edge haloes while recovering the structural information. The "weighted average" technique is used to merge source images based on the weights that were computed based on significant edge details. This technique can enhance contrast and highlight significant details in the fused image. We evaluate our proposed methodology on multiple pairs of publically available medical imaging datasets. The quantitative evaluation indicates that the suggested fusion strategy for multimodal image fusion improves the average IE by 5.8, MI by 34.8%, MSSIM by 31%, and QAB/F by 40% over the current methods, making it appropriate for usage in the medical area for correct diagnosis.
Gaussian curvature, Guided filter, Medical image fusion,Weighted average, Qualitative, Quantitative evaluation
Copyright (c) 2025 Iraqi Journal of Science https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Image Compression Using Elimination and Dynamic Rules
This study proposes a method for developing the Triangular Inequality Elimination (TIE) rule and applying it in image compression based on block quantization. The study employed a dynamic rule to enhance and refine the TIE method. Applying the dynamic rule to the TIE algorithm reduces the computational complexity during the compression (coding-decoding) process, speeds up execution and transmission, and eliminates the need for large storage spaces. The dynamic rule is useful because it changes blocks close to the reference block during each attempt (S) to find the smallest number of blocks closest to the reference block. These blocks were then placed in a set. The higher the blocks in the set, the higher the image quality is at the expense of the compression ratio. The results of the dynamic rule that modifies the TIE algorithm are high compression ratios, quick implementation, low storage space for the image, and good reconstructed image quality. In other words, the suggested method, Triangular Inequality Elimination with Dynamic Rules (D-TIE), will significantly reduce the time required for matching searches; therefore, it is the least computationally demanding. The dynamic rule is useful because it swaps blocks close to the reference block during each attempt (S) to find the smallest number of blocks closest to the reference block. These blocks are then placed in a final set. The fewer the number of blocks in the set, the higher the image quality at the expense of the compression ratio. The results obtained by the dynamic rule that modifies the TIE algorithm are high compression ratios, quick implementation, low storage space, and good reconstructed image quality. In other words, the suggested method, Triangular Inequality Elimination with Dynamic Rules (D-TIE), will greatly reduce the time of matching searches; therefore, it is the smallest in computational difficulty.
Pharmacological Evaluation of Najas gracillima from the Bay of Bengal Coastal Regions: In Vitro and In Silico Studies
Najas gracillima is a green seaweed commonly found in North America and East Asia. This study explored its phytochemical composition and assessed its antioxidant activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays, along with α-amylase inhibition and cytotoxicity evaluations via the brine shrimp lethality bioassay (BSLB) and the HeLa cancer cell line. The acetone extract of Najas gracillima (ANG) showed a total phenolic content of 14.26 ± 1.86 mg GAE/g extract and a total flavonoid content of 10.27 ± 2.24 mg QUE/g extract. ANG demonstrated strong antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ for DPPH: 14.57 ± 0.93 µg/mL; IC₅₀ for ABTS: 32.17 ± 1.35 µg/mL) and moderate α-amylase inhibition (IC₅₀: 54.97 ± 3.36 µg/mL). While it showed mild cytotoxicity in the BSLB assay (LC₅₀: 673.08 μg/mL), no cytotoxic effects were observed against HeLa cells. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the identified compounds exhibited strong binding affinities to relevant drug target proteins associated with the observed biological activities. These findings suggest that N. gracillima may serve as a valuable source of bioactive compounds with potential applications in managing oxidative stress and diabetes.
Evaluating the Toxicity of Commercial Chelated Multi-Micronutrient Nanofertilizer
Despite growing interest in nanofertilisers, safety concerns persist. In this study, the toxicity of a chelated multi-micronutrient nanofertiliser was assessed using male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) as non-target organisms. Thirty-five male rats were divided into five groups (n=7): one control and four experimental groups (C1-C4). Rats in experimental groups were orally administered fifteen doses of nanofertiliser (15, 30, 62, and 126 mg/rat, respectively) at one-day intervals. Significant weight loss was observed in C1-C4 (−10.86±10.95 g, −8.43±14.46 g, −38.71±28.70 g, and −34.71±21.55 g, respectively), compared to the control group (31.29±9.62 g). Liver weights were also reduced (C1: 7.35±1.39 g, C2: 6.55±0.88 g, C3: 7.35±1.10 g, and C4: 9.07±1.60 g) versus controls (11.26±2.08 g). Although levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) fluctuated, most alterations were statistically insignificant. Significant gene upregulation was observed: Casp3 was upregulated by 2.78±0.98 (C2), 2.26±0.96 (C3), and 2.29±0.26 (C4), and Sod1 by 2.79±1.36 (C2) and 2.43±0.92 (C4). These findings indicate harmful biological effects of the tested nanofertiliser doses, highlighting the need for long-term chronic impact studies.
Estimating the levels of Vitamin D, Interleukin-17A, Interleukin-22, and Interleukin-34 in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrine disorder affecting women during their reproductive period. The study aims to estimate the concentrations of interleukins (IL-17A, IL-34, and IL-22) and vitamin D levels, besides some hormonal indices in blood serum, and to explain their roles in PCOS pathogenicity in women. This study included ninety samples categorized into two groups: sixty samples from patients with PCOS and thirty samples from a healthy control group. Participants' ages ranged from 19 to 39 years. The PCOS diagnosis is made by a specialist doctor. Blood samples were collected from each woman, both patients and healthy controls, during the menstrual cycle (days 3 and 4) to measure hormonal profile levels of estradiol, testosterone, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) and vitamin D using a mini VIDAS device. The ELISA technique was used to determine the concentrations of serum IL-17A, IL-34, and IL-22. The results indicated a significant elevation (P <0.05) in testosterone and Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels in patients with PCOS compared to the healthy control group. In contrast, estradiol had a significant decrease in PCOS patients. The vitamin D levels in patients with PCOS were lower than those in the healthy control group, without statistical significance. IL-17A and IL-34 exhibited no significant differences between women with PCOS and the healthy group. IL-22 concentrations were reduced in the patients compared to the healthy control group. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that a weak negative correlation was observed between IL-17A and testosterone (r = -0.25), as well as between IL-34 and other variables, including estradiol (r = 0.27) and testosterone (r = 0.28). In contrast, a weak positive correlation was identified between IL-22 and testosterone (r = 0.26). It can be concluded that there are no statistically significant changes in the levels of vitamin D, IL-17A, or IL-34 between patients and healthy controls. However, there was a notable decrease in the levels of IL-22 in patients with PCOS. A drop in IL-22, likely caused by hormonal changes and immune dysregulation, such as chronic low-grade inflammation, may help prevent and treat PCOS.
Effect of Moringa Leaves Water Extract Combined with Collagen and Vitamin C on Malondialdehyde Levels in Rats Exposed to Oxidative Stress
The increasing prevalence of free radical-related diseases has led to a greater reliance on herbal medicines, such as Moringa oleifera (ML), as antioxidants. However, limited evidence exists regarding the combined effect of herbal and conventional antioxidants on malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. This research assessed simplisia characterization, phytochemical screening, antioxidant activity of ML water extract (ML-WE), and serum MDA levels in animal models using ELISA. Forty-two Wistar rats were randomly divided into seven groups: a negative control, a positive control, and five treatment groups. All treatment groups were exposed to lead for seven days, followed by supplementation with either ML-WE (200 mg/kg BW), vitamin C (36 mg/kg BW), collagen (27 mg/kg BW), or their combinations. ML-WE showed strong antioxidant activity (IC50: 81.761 ppm). MDA levels differed significantly among groups (p < 0.001). Combining ML-WE with collagen reduced MDA levels more than ML-WE alone (14.65 ± 0.66 vs 21.32 ± 0.95 nmol/mL, p < 0.05) but was less effective than collagen monotherapy. Similarly, ML-WE combined with vitamin C showed no statistically significant improvement. These results indicate that while ML-WE has strong antioxidant properties, no synergistic effects were observed in combination therapies.
Modulation of BarA/UvrY Two-Component System Expression in Escherichia coli Induced by Ceftazidime Treatment
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) remains the most common etiologic agent of community-acquired urinary tract infections (UTIs), largely due to its extensive virulence arsenal and adaptive regulatory mechanisms. In this study, we examined the phenotypic regulation of major virulence factors—hemolysin production, biofilm, swarming motility, and adhesion—under exposure to sub-inhibitory concentrations of Ceftazidime, an extended-spectrum β-lactam antibiotic. The transcriptional response of the BarA/UvrY two-component regulatory system was also examined to unravel its role in response to antibiotic stress. Using an extensive range of microbiological, molecular, and phenotypic tests, we unveiled differential profiles of virulence traits. Exposure to sub-MICs Ceftazidime markedly diminished hemolytic activity, biofilm formation, and adhesive capacity, with swarming motility exhibiting almost complete inhibition. Moreover, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed variable transcriptional responses of BarA and UvrY in the tested isolates, with the recovery of BarA expression noted after prolonged exposure to antibiotics. These findings emphasize the dynamic expression of UPEC's stress response mechanisms and outline the central role of Bar/UvrY in modulating pathoadaptive mechanisms under antibiotic stress.
New Family of Two-Step Iterative Methods Based on Heron Mean for Solving Nonlinear Equations
In this paper, we propose and analyze a new one-parameter family of two-step iterative methods without requiring higher derivatives for solving nonlinear equations. This family is constructed based on a Newton-type method utilizing the Heron mean, a predictor-corrector technique, and an appropriate choice of derivative approximations. Each iteration of the new methods requires two function evaluations and one first derivative evaluation. Convergence analysis shows that the proposed methods achieve third- and fourth-order convergence, with corresponding efficiency indices of 1.44225 and 1.58740, respectively. Numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the performance and efficiency of the proposed methods.
A Morphological and Histological Study of the Skin in the Bufo viridis Frog in Iraq
This research was carried out to identify the layers of the skin of Bufo viridis. Ten adult frogs were used in the study, which was conducted in the histology and embryology laboratory at the College of Education for Pure Science (Ibn Al-Haitham), University of Baghdad. The skin was dissected and fixed in 10% formalin, then dehydrated, cleared, infiltrated, and embedded. The sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The histological structure of the skin revealed that it is composed of two layers. The epidermis layer is composed of stratified squamous epithelial tissue and consists of three strata: the Corneum, Spinosum, and Germinativum. There are no papillae in the epidermis. The dermis layer is composed of loose connective tissue with blood vessels and consists of two layers: the spongy and compact layers. The spongy tissue consists of alveolar glands, both mucous and granular. The dorsal skin and the dermis consisted of pigment cells. The skin tissue consists of a two-layered structure: the epidermis, composed of stratified squamous epithelium, and the dermis, composed of loose connective tissue. Pigment cells are present in both layers, suggesting that they serve a role as coloration or UV radiation protection.
Expression Variation of Serine Protease Autotransporters Genes of Uropathogenic E. coli in Response to Tea Tree Essential Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) and its Polymer
In this study, the antibacterial activity of tea tree essential oil and its polymer on Uropathogenic E. coli was determined. In addition to their effect on the gene expression of two serine protease autotransporter genes, sat and vat. Five hundred clinical urine samples have been collected from individuals aged between 15 and ≥65 years old with urinary tract infections in Babylon. One hundred E. coli isolates were collected and isolated using selective and differential culture media, then verified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the agar dilution method to assess the antibacterial activity of tea tree essential oil and its polymer. The MIC values of tea tree essential oil was 10000 ppm for 2 strains (3.3%), 5000 ppm for 51 strains (85%), and 2500 ppm for 7 strains (11.7%), while MIC of the polymer was 20000 ppm for 58 strains (96.7%), and 10000 ppm for 2 strains (3.3%). Gene expression was measured using the RT-qPCR method. Tea tree essential oil and its polymer were highly effective antibacterial agents against E. coli bacteria, and their effect on decreasing gene expression of the sat gene was more pronounced than that of the vat gene. This effect indicates the potential of tea tree essential oil and its polymer as alternative antibacterial agents that target bacterial virulence, providing a strategy for combating antibiotic resistance and pathogenicity.
Predictive Role of Immunological Markers sCD14-ST and Interleukin-6 in Assessing Severity and Recovery Outcomes in COVID-19 Patients
The soluble cluster of differentiation CD14 subtype (sCD14-ST) acts as a cofactor, increasing pattern recognition receptor (PRR) activity through some infections. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has a critical clinical role in infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causing a cytokine storm that eventually leads to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, various investigations found that IL-6 and sCD14-ST are predictive biomarkers for disease prognosis and severity. This study strives to investigate the immunological role of IL-6 and sCD14-ST in predicting COVID-19 outcomes. A case-control study involving 180 participants was divided into three groups: a severe group (with a particular focus on intensive care unit (ICU) patients), a mild-moderate group, with 60 patients, and a control group consisting of 60 healthy participants. ELISA was utilized to quantify IL-6 and sCD14-ST. The results exhibited a statistically significant increase (p-value ≤0.001) in median serum levels of IL-6 and sCD14-ST among patient groups compared to the control group. The Spearman correlation demonstrates a positive and substantial association between patient indicators. According to the findings, high levels of IL-6 and sCD14-ST associated with COVID-19 severity could be used as predictive markers for disease progression, particularly in ICU patients. In contrast, the low levels of these biomarkers in both control and mild-moderate infections may reflect inflammation resolution and infection recovery.
Gold Mineralisation in Metamorphic Rocks on Buru Island, Indonesia: Rock Facies, Geochemistry, Alterations, Mineralisation, and Types of Ore Deposits
Indonesia is a country rich in natural resources, one of which is gold deposits scattered across several locations, including the islands of Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, Maluku, Nusa Tenggara and Papua. This study aims to (1) determine the type of alteration contained in the research area based on the altered mineral set resulting from the alteration process and the characteristics of gold deposits in metamorphic rocks in the study area, (2) determine the mineralisation characteristics of gold deposits by conducting geochemical analysis, (3) determine the type of metamorphic facies in host-rocks Gold deposits in the research area, (4) explain how the distribution of gold content from the results of geochemical analysis, (5) explain the genetic characteristics of gold deposits in the study area based on geochemical analysis and petrographic analysis. This study involved a field survey and random rock sampling at Mount Botak, Buru Regency, Maluku Province, Indonesia. Rock samples were analysed by petrographic analysis, XRD (X-ray Diffraction) analysis, XRF (X-ray fluorescence) analysis, ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry) analysis, and AAS (atomic absorption spectrometry) analysis. The study results indicate that the host rock of gold deposits on Buru Island is a metamorphic rock formed by greenschist facies. The types of alterations are silicic, sericitization, argilic, and chloritization. The mineralisation is generally in quartz veins with a crustiform texture and a slight vein stockwork. Au levels ranged from 0.23 to 5.9 g/ton, which was not accompanied by Ag enrichment. Based on the analysis of gold deposits in the research area, it is an orogenic-type of deposit formed in a mesozonal environment, typically at a depth of 5-10 km. The implications of the research results can be applied to gold exploration purposes in Indonesia, particularly for gold deposits that have metamorphic host rocks.
The Association of TIMP-1 Serum Level and Genetic Polymorphisms in Type II Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Novel Case-Control Study
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia due to decreased insulin secretion, deficient insulin action, or both. DM includes type 1 and type 2. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is primarily caused by insulin resistance, decreased insulin secretion, and increased glucose production. Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) play a crucial role in extracellular matrix remodeling, which is essential for maintaining skin integrity and promoting wound healing. This study aimed to investigate the association between TIMP-1 genetic variants and their serum levels with the susceptibility to the disease and the development of skin problems in T2DM patients. This study, conducted from November 2023 to April 2024, involved 83 T2DM patients and 75 healthy controls, aiming to investigate the TIMP-1 serum level and determine TIMP-1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs4898 and rs5953060 frequencies. Results showed higher TIMP-1 levels in the T2DM group (1.83±0.04 vs. 1.66±0.03pg/ml, respectively). Genotyping revealed an increased percentage of TC, CC genotypes, and C allele frequencies for rs4898, and CC genotype and C allele for rs5953060 in the T2DM group (42.17%, 33.73%, and 55.0% for rs4898, 24.10%, and 44.0% for rs5953060). Pairwise linkage disequilibrium analysis between the two SNPs demonstrated that rs4898 had a strong LD with rs5953060 (D’=0.95). Haplotype reconstruction yielded three common two-SNP haplotypes in T2DM versus controls, with none reaching statistical significance (CG:42.6% vs. 38.0% TG:52.2% vs. 54.0%, and TC:3.6% vs. 8.0%, respectively, all P>0.05). Although the TC haplotype showed a non-significant protective trend. In conclusion, TIMP-1 serum levels and the TC, CC/C of rs4898, and CC/C of rs5953060 may be risk factors for skin lesions and susceptibility to T2DM.
Socio-Demographics, Hematological Assessments, and a Correlation Between Platelet Indices in Preeclampsia in Sulaimani Governorate, Iraq
Preeclampsia (PE), a serious disorder during pregnancy, is most commonly defined as blood pressure≥140/90 mmHg and protein in urine>300 mg/24-hour after 20 weeks of gestation. This study aimed to identify the hematological characteristics, to examine the influence of social and demographic factors on their prevalence, and to assess the correlation between platelet indices and red blood cell indices with relevant variables. A total of 80 pregnant women who were recruited at 20 weeks or later with complete blood counts analyzed by Coulter counter, were included in this study. The largest percentage of preeclampsia cases were found in primigravida women aged 30-39 years, living outside urban areas, who were obese and had blood type O. It was discovered that the values of erythrocyte distribution width (RDW%) and granulocytes% (GRA%) exhibited statistically significant differences between patients with preeclampsia and those without. Moreover, the mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet larger cell ratio (P-LCR%), platelet distribution width (PDW%), and platelet larger cell count( P-LCC) of these women were higher than those in normal pregnant women. Still, their platelet counts (PLT) decreased significantly.A noteworthy negative association emerged between RDW and PLT. At the same time, positive correlations were identified between RDW and both hemoglobin (Hb) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). Recognized risk factors for PE include obesity and blood group O. This study concludes that indicators of RDW and platelet indices could serve as predictive markers for anticipating this serious pregnancy-related condition.