Journal of university of Anbar for Pure science

In last few decades, extensive research has been performed designing new synthetic procedures not only to create new classes of polymers, but also to control the architecture of those polymers. In order to improve the biocompatibility of medical implants and control to improve their interactions with proteins, cells and bacteria, it is important to modify the surfaces with different types of molecules. Specific polymers are often the molecules of choice because their properties can be tuned such as enhancement of surface hydrophilicity. The polymer architecture plays an important role at resisting protein adsorption or enhancing cell behavioural responses by already adsorbed proteins. The aim of this study was to give an overview of polymer brushes to study their natures and behavior on the surfaces.

This study investigated the antimicrobial properties of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) against the biofilm formation-related genes of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella enterica serovars, such as Typhi and Typhimurium. Clinical strains of these serovars were isolated. Their abilities to form biofilms were tested in a microtiter plate, and their resistance to different antibiotics were assessed. In all the isolates, the beta-lactamase activity was found to be an end level. Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid was the most effective antibiotic with 73.3% in vitro susceptibility. Resistance to tetracycline (66.7%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole S. Typhimurium (48%) and S. Enteritidis (21.7%) dominated the serotypes. Most of the Salmonella isolates were capable of forming biofilms on plastic materials, thereby presenting the possibility for some levels of infection control and food safety issues to arise. The pattern of antibiotic resistance was surprisingly intricate, revealing the presence of cross resistance. Multiple antibiotic resistance against the commonly used antibiotics such as chloraophenolcicol, amoxicillin, and cefoxitin was also observed in the isolates from immunocompromised patients. Synergy was verified after the application of SeNPs combined with antimicrobials, and the antibiotic efficacy was enriched. In addition, SeNPs downregulated the expression of adrA, gcpA, and csgD genes encoding biofilm and acting as virulence markers. In the face of antibiotic resistance, SeNPs maybe eventually become a viable option among other strategies for persistent Salmonella infections. This study underscores the need for other techniques, particularly in the treatment of MDR Salmonella, and further inquiry as to the potential of SeNPs in the clinical field.

The clinical presentation of brucellosis may range from subacute to acute or chronic, necessitating extensive tests for a diagnosis. This disease is endemic to Iraq, which brings difficulty in interpreting test data. This study’s overarching goal was to develop a diagnostic tool that could aid the immune system’s ability to recognize this illness by taking advantage of the variations in interferon-γ. Comparison research was carried out at Anbar Teaching Hospital from October 2022 to September 2023. Eighty-six blood samples from 43 positive Rose Bengal test and 43 control cases were collected in the outpatient infectious clinic. Memory T-lymphocytes create IgM and IgG antibodies, culture, polymerase chain reaction, and interferon-γ that are specific to the Brucella antigen. The patients who tested positive came from several communities in the Anbar area and had signs and symptoms of Brucellosis that were later validated using a polymerase chain reaction. For the examined samples, the interferon-γ immunological assay demonstrated a sensitivity of 79.2% and a specificity of 100%. Meanwhile, PCR had a sensitivity of 89.3% and a specificity of 100%. For Brucella-specific IgG, the sensitivity was 21.4% and the specificity was 100%. The sensitivity and specificity of other laboratory studies, such as Brucella-specific IgM, were 100%, although Brucella culture was positive in just one instance. Compared with Brucella-specific IgG, the persistently high levels of interferon-γ in chronic brucellosis may be more helpful for patients undergoing follow-up treatment after acute episodes of low-grade fever.

Irisin is a newly discovered hormone. It is released from skeletal muscles during an exercise, which primarily increases peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor gamma co-activator (PGC-1α) expression in cardiac and skeletal muscles. In addition, it enhances several metabolic parameters, such as insulin sensitivity and signaling, initiates AMP-activated protein kinase, phosphorylates PGC-1α, and produces fibronectin type III domain–containing protein 5, which in turn produces irisin. It is distributed throughout the body and has a physiological effect on several tissues and organs, performing several functions. Moreover, It plays roles in the browning of white adipose tissues, which release energy stored as heat and thus maintain the body’s balance, and in insulin resistance, maintaining body mass and thus reducing obesity. Therefore, studying the expression and physiological function of irisin may provide insights into its use as a treatment for many diseases, such as type II diabetes, obesity, and heart diseases. This article reviews progress in research on the role of irisin on the physiological state of humans.

A quantum chemical study was conducted for a Schiff base derivative synthesized through the utilization of the B3LYP of density functional theory and Hartree–Fock (HF) methods in conjunction with basis sets of different sizes, including 3-21g, 3-21+g, 3-21+g*, 3-21+g**, and 6-31+g(d,p). This work aimed to test the computational efficiency and reliability of different procedures for the optimization and investigation of Schiff base derivatives. Various optimization parameters, such as the maximum force and displacement and their RMS values, were studied for all steps of optimizations. In addition, a frontier molecular orbital study was performed using all the basis sets to determine the gap energy and other electronic parameters for the most stable conformation of the investigated Schiff base molecule. The use of large-sized basis sets can result in a huge difference as in the case of 6-31+g(d,p), whereas no difference can be noticed between 3-21+g and 3-21+g*, specifically when HF method was used.

The decline in the effectiveness of current anticancer drugs is a persisting issue in basic and advanced medicine. One proposed solution is to conduct theoretical chemical studies to identify potential drugs using dioxoisoindoline derivatives. This work utilized molecular docking and ΔG calculations to assess the derivatives’ activity against cancer-related proteins. A high negative ΔG value indicates a close match between the chemical and protein interactions. Several compounds, such as S4 ΔG=−8.983, S1 ΔG=−8.498, and S1 ΔG=−9.121, exhibited significant activity against various proteins. The ΔG values obtained for all derivatives were within an acceptable range, suggesting their potential as therapeutic agents. These results indicate that the dioxoisoindoline derivatives under investigation show promise for targeting different cancer-related proteins, underscoring the importance of developing alternative anticancer drugs. This work introduces a chemical study approach using these derivatives. The tested compounds have shown potential activity against specific proteins, positioning them as prospective candidates for further exploration and development as potential anticancer medications.

This investigation introduced six chalcones, characterized by substituted acetophenone and substituted benzaldehyde. These chalcones were utilized to prepare six spiroheterocyclic compounds. Thin-layer chromatography was utilized to monitor the reactions, and mass spectroscopy analysis techniques, carbon nuclear magnetic resonance, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy were used to characterize the structures. Additionally, the biological efficacy of spiroheterocyclic compounds prepared against bacteria and fungi was studied.

This study involved the preparation of sulfur nanoparticles using the extract of Ziziphus spina leaves and examined their effect on the photodegradation of polycarbonate membranes with a thickness of 60±5 microns, after adding various concentrations of the nano additive (0.1%, 0.05%, 0.025%, 0.0125%, and 0.00625%) to a polycarbonate solution dissolved in chloroform. Sulfur nanoparticles were characterized using different techniques such as SEM, XRD, and FT-IR. A band at 460 cm-1 was identified according to FT-IR analysis, indicating the formation of sulfur nanoparticles. Photodegradation of polycarbonates, with and without the additive, was monitored by UV-visible analysis at 356 nm over varying irradiation times (0, 30, 60, 120, and 180 h), calculating the rate constant of photolytic fragmentation for the polymer additive. Results showed an increase in the photodegradation of polymer films with an increase in the concentration of the nanomaterial compared with films without the additive. Using FT-IR analysis, the carbonyl absorption coefficient was calculated and found to increase with the concentration of the added nanosulfur, consistent with the Kd values (rate constant of photolytic fragmentation). Additionally, the average molecular weight of the polymer, the degree of disintegration, and the numerical rate of polymer chain scission were calculated by using a viscometer. We observed that the average molecular weight of the polymer decreased with increasing irradiation time and increasing rate of chain scission.

The basic nucleus 4-(benzylideneamino-5-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)-2-(4-benzylideneamino-5-phenyl-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)-thioethanethioate T.4 was produced using various steps, from the cyclization of T.2 with carbon disulfide/potassium hydroxide using ethanol as a solvent followed by the addition of hydrazine hydrate for 12 h while experiencing reflux. To create the Schiff base T.3, we exposed its successful synthesis via reflux T.2 with 1,4-dicarbaldehyde and reacted T.3 with chemicals for condensation with chloroacetyl chloride. Physical characteristics, such as the melting point, and spectroscopic analysis was used to confirm the compounds (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance).

This work investigated the unrealized promise of the environmentally friendly and sustainable chemistry of lemon peels. Lemon peel’s chemical makeup, which includes limonene, citric acid, flavonoids, cellulose, and lignin, provides a wide range of chemicals with uses in many sectors. Extraction methods are based on the principles of green chemistry, which ensures environmental and economic safety. Numerous separation techniques, including fractional distillation, highlight the selectivity needed to isolate certain substances. The study will also address the practical use of lemon peel chemistry through recycling, which includes biological transformation and chemical transformation, in addition to its use in treatment, food, packaging, and other fields. Opportunities for innovation, collective action, recycling economy projects, and legislative assistance can help overcome challenges including waste volume and economic feasibility. Recycling lemon peel components is an excellent sustainable way to obtain environmentally friendly biomaterials. This integration helps promote a more renewable and sustainable way of consuming natural resources. In addition to addressing waste management issues, the chemistry of lemon peel provides evidence that natural resources can be used to create a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Readily available and less expensive medications are more widespread than contemporary medications, and medicinal herbs are used extensively worldwide. Numerous phytochemicals with potential biological activity have been identified, but many chemical substances in a single plant reduces the effectiveness of these phytochemicals. Thus, extensive research into the effects of these substances, which are present in a broad range of plants, are needed to ascertain their safety and efficacy. The objective of this study was to quantify alkaloids in the aqueous extracts of 10 varieties of medicinal plants found in local markets and examine their biological efficacy in combating Staphylococcus aureus infection. Results indicated that the aqueous extract of a chamomile plant (Matricaria chamomilla) had the highest concentration of alkaloids (124.9 µg/gm), followed the extract of a fenugreek plant (Trigonella foenum-graecum; 94.5 µg/gm). The lowest concentration was found in the ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract (5.7 µg/gm). Biological efficacy experiments showed that the Cucurbita extract did not show any inhibitory effect against bacteria at all concentrations in contrast to the extracts of Piper nigrum, Nigella sativa, and T. foenum-graecum. As for the rest of the extracts, their effects varied by concentration, and the bacteria showed resistance as dilution increased.

The study centered on the synthesis, characterization, and application of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), which show potential for biomedical applications. Nanobiotechnology allows for broad NP application while reducing the reliance on expensive and hazardous chemicals through the sustainable production of NPs from plant resources. This research aimed to develop an environmentally safe process for Ag NPs using the Annonaceae fruit’s aqueous extract as a capping and reducing agent and assess their potential pharmaceutical applications as antibacterial and antifungal agents. Ag NPs were characterized via ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy technique, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The biological activity of Ag NPs was investigated against two genera of pathogenic bacteria, namely, Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus, through the agar well diffusion assay. This study included the plant’s possible use in the pharmaceutical industry. The plant’s nutritious fruit extract opens the door to further the research on its possible application as an edible medicine.

Cardiovascular diseases continue to be the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed nations. Elevated liver function levels have recently been implicated as possible risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in the adult population. This study aims to assess the correlation of hepatic function tests with cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in adult males with unstable angina and to explore the potential of these biomarkers as predictive tools. Conducted at AL-Ramadi Teaching Hospital, Iraq from October 2023 to January 2024, this study included 90 male adult participants (60 healthy individuals and 30 patients with unstable angina). Sociodemographic and biochemical variables were collected using a systematic questionnaire and standardized measurement procedures. The average values for body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, cTnI, and hs-CRP were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the patients with unstable angina compared with those in the control group. Furthermore, bilirubin, GGT, and AST levels showed a significant correlation with cTnI and hs-CRP levels in the patients with unstable angina. Our data indicated that bilirubin, GGT, and AST have the best predictive value for the risk of unstable angina. Continued monitoring of these biomarkers in patients suffering from liver function disorders will help identify early signs of unstable angina and improve the prevention and treatment of this disease.

Insulin is a hormone produced naturally by the pancreas through β cells, whereas glucagon is a hormone secreted by the pancreas through α cells. Somatostatin is secreted by δ cells. These hormones play vital roles in metabolic actions in the human body, especially regulating glucose levels. The absence or lack of insulin causes diabetes, which is characterized by increase in level blood sugar level. Diabetes is the main reason for many diseases, such as kidney diseases, vision loss, nerve disorders, and cardiovascular difficulties. Insulin medication and other related composition and inhibition can reduce diabetes cases and lower mortality due to diabetes.

The equation of Kepler is used to solve different problems associated with celestial mechanics and the dynamics of the orbit. It is an exact explanation for the movement of any two bodies in space under the effect of gravity. This equation represents the body in space in terms of polar coordinates; thus, it can also specify the time required for the body to complete its period along the orbit around another body. This paper is a review for previously published papers related to solve Kepler’s equation and eccentric anomaly. It aims to collect and assess changed iterative initial values for eccentric anomaly for forty previous years. Those initial values are tested to select the finest one based on the number of iterations, as well as the run time for each starting initial value that is required for completing the solution. The method of Newton–Raphson is employed to acquire a final value for an eccentric anomaly; this method considers a typical method for a solution with less divergence as compared with an ideal solution, and the best initial value is chosen. The applicable selection of the initial value of the eccentric anomaly will decrease the calculation time and confirm the convergence of the curves of the eccentric anomaly with ideal curves.

Fullerene–gold nanoparticle (GNP) composite films were prepared via laser ablation and electrospray techniques. A pulsed Nd-YAG laser with a wavelength of 1064 nm and an energy of 100 mJ was used to prepare colloidal solutions, which were sprayed onto quartz substrates using an electrospray device at temperatures of 300±20 °C. The prepared films were characterized through X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, and photoluminescence (PL) to investigate their structural, morphological, and optical properties, respectively. The prepared films showed multiple phases of C60 and C70, with differences in distribution observed based on the concentration of GNPs. In addition, several gap energies, whose values ranged from 1.95 eV to 5.62 eV based on the formation phase, were detected for each film based on their absorption behavior within the wavelength range of 200–900 nm. In addition, the PL spectra exhibited four peaks for each film, with the concentration of GNPs affecting the positions of emission peaks and the appearance of peaks beyond 500 nm coinciding with the addition of gold to the compound.

Au-decorated fullerene:TiO2 films were created via electrospraying at a temperature of 300 °C and a bias voltage of 5 KV. The structural properties, Raman spectra, photoluminescence (PL), and photoconductivity were studied by changing the ratio of TiO2 to carbon. X-Ray diffraction spectra revealed changes in the distribution of C60 and polymeric C60 and C70 structures. Raman spectra unveiled the characteristic vibrational modes of fullerenes Hg(1), Fg(1), and Ag(2) with slight changes in the intensity and breadth of lines. The PL spectra under excitation at a wavelength of 280 nm displayed an increase in the peak intensity at approximately 562 nm without alterations in its position. The spectra resulting from excitation at a wavelength of 320 nm displayed transitions in the ultraviolet-visible region, whose locations and intensity changed depending on the percentage of TiO2. This finding led to a modification in the optical response of the prepared films measured by as a function of the optical conductivity under irradiation at wavelengths of 200–800 nm. The optimal photoconductivity of the fullerene:TiO2 film was 30%.

Fission cross-sections exhibit a high degree of sensitivity to saddle point deformations and level density at equilibrium. In this research, optical and statistical models were used to examine the neutron-induced fission cross-section calculations for some americium isotopes 240,241,243,244. Am (n, f) facing obstacles were effectively double humped considering the different level density parameters (LDPs) (a) of the Gilbert–Cameron Model (GCM). The EMPIRE-3.2 modular system computer code was used for this purpose, with energies ranging from 1 keV to 100 MeV for the incident neutron. Our calculations were compared with the available experimental data adopted from the EXFOR database. The LDP considered using the Arthur formula was the best parameter used in the GCM, and it showed a reasonable agreement with experimental results. The calculated cross-section of GCM was also compared with the results of different level density models.

Top-down pulsed laser ablation in liquids has many advantages in the synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs). In this work, NPs of pure nickel (Ni) plate were prepared via pulsed laser ablation in deionized water, with the utilization of Nd:YAG laser with three wavelengths (1064, 532, and 355 nm) and three energies (50, 100, and 150 mJ). The results demonstrate the formation of Ni NPs in addition to spherical nickel oxide NPs with average sizes of 14.3–18.44 nm. The oxidation rate increased when the shorter wavelength of the laser was used in the preparation. The intensity of absorption rose with the increase in laser energy. The best wavelength used for the preparation was 532 nm, and the best energy was 150 mJ. This physical technique has proven its advantage in terms of ease and low-cost preparation of metal NPs and their nano oxides and regulation of their properties by controlling the laser and ablation parameters.

The capability to build devices from single-molecular junctions depends on the fabrication of molecular structures. Here, we report important changes in the transmission coefficient for different connectivities of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. In this study, we compared the density functional theory (DFT) with single-orbital tight binding (TB) to investigate the transmission coefficient of three different molecules, including benzene, naphthalene, and azulene, with various point connections with electrodes. In the case of benzene, the para connection led to constructive quantum interference (CQI) and the meta link to distractive quantum interference (DQI). Subsequently, azulene and naphthalene showed an equal number of atoms with five different connections. The results indicate that the even-even or odd-odd connection was DQI, and the even-odd connection was CQI. This finding is supported by the wave function molecular orbital plot. Finally, the TB calculations were in good agreement with those of DFT.

Although the complex odd mass 191Pt nucleus has been studied theoretically by several models, there is still a lack of information concerning its electromagnetic moments and transitions. The present result of an interacting boson–fermion model-1 (IBFM-1) single and multilevel calculation for positive and negative parity states of the odd mass 191Pt nucleus are compared with experimental data, confirming the spin assignments for many low-lying energy states. Different core nucleus and levels have been used in this study. Electromagnetic moments based on the IBFM analysis are reported for the first time, as well as the multipolarity of transitions and mixing ratios. The present IBFM results show good agreement with the available experimental data.

Zinc telluride (ZnTe)/zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoheterostructure ZnTe and ZnO nanofilms were grown via pulse laser deposition technique for photodetector applications. The films were deposited on n-type silicon and fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass substrate at 180 MJ and 700 and 900 pulses). The structural properties were studied using X-ray diffraction patterns, which showed the crystallized hexagonal and cubic structures of the film. The elemental compositions of the thin ZnTe and ZnO films were identified through energy dispersive X-ray analysis. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy examinations revealed that the films displayed a good homogeneity of particles distributed on the surface and that the average particle size increased with the increase in the number of laser pulses. Silver (Ag) electrodes were deposited on the ZnTe/ZnO/Si films, and detector characteristics, including (I-V) those in illuminated and dark conditions, were determined. Photosensitivity studies indicated that the maximum detector responsivity was 31.892 µA/mW at 460 nm. The highest values of specific detectivity and external quantum efficiency were 3.26 ×1017 Jones and 96.075%, respectively. ON/OFF measurement was performed to investigate the response/recovery time and switch behavior of the photodetectors.

E-learning approaches allow learners to choose appropriate courses from a range of courses on online platforms on the basis of their preferences and interests. Recommender systems help students select courses by analyzing their data and understanding their interests. In the domain of e-learning platforms, recommender systems that utilize machine intelligence (MI) techniques can be improved. This study aims to propose recommendations for e-learning courses on the basis of user assessments. To achieve this aim, this study applied a collaborative filtering technique. An educational dataset from Coursera’s online courses was utilized. Machine learning (ML) models, such as K nearest neighbor (KNN) and singular value decomposition (SVD), were proposed. Evaluations were conducted using performance metrics, such as root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), hit rate (HR), average reciprocal hit rating (ARHR), accuracy, and recall. Results showed that SVD and KNN achieved 91% and 96% HR, respectively. Among the models, KNN obtained the highest accuracy of 99%, followed by SVD with 96%. When the grid search technique was utilized with the recommended ML algorithms, SVD and KNN obtained 99% and 98% HR, respectively. Although accuracy improved only slightly after the changes, these results still highlight the efficacy of collaborative filtering methods in improving recommendations in e-learning settings, thereby enhancing the customized learning experiences of users.

The concept of generalized compactness is useful and essential not only in general topology but also in other advanced branches of pure and applied mathematics. The influence of topological spaces is evident in computer sciences, digital topology, computational topology for geometric and molecular design particle physics, high-energy physics, quantum physics, and superstring theory. Therefore, in this study, new concepts of generalized compact spaces, namely, ωδ-ß-compact and nearly ωδ-ß-compact spaces, based on new generalized ω-open sets are presented in topological spaces. Various essential characterizations related to these generalized compact spaces are investigated. Furthermore, the relationships among some kinds of generalized compact spaces are discussed. Some illustrative examples are also provided to highlight the realized improvements. The discoveries in this article are expected to aid scientists in conducting research on general topology to establish a general framework for their practical applications in all advanced branches of mathematics and other sciences.

Asymmetry plays a remarkable role in the transmission dynamics of novel fractional calculus. Only a few studies have mathematically modeled such asymmetry properties, and none has developed Schrödinger models that incorporate different symmetry developmental stages. Laplace transform can be used to discover the analytic (exact) solution to linear fractional differential equations. This study recommends Laplace transform as a technique to resolve the fractional-order Schrödinger equation with boundary conditions, where the fractional derivatives of Caputo and Riemann–Liouville are applied. It can be used to resolve fractional and ordinary differential equations. Afterward, the precise solution to a specific fractional differential equation example is determined. Results show that when novel Laplace transform is applied to the provided fractional differential equation boundary value problem, it yields accurate solutions without the need for lengthy calculations. In addition, we investigate a class of fractional boundary value problems with two boundary value conditions, namely, σ∈ (2,3] and x ∈ (0, a], that involve orders of the fractional derivative. We show our primary findings through several cases. We provide multiple examples to highlight our main conclusions and prove the solution by employing Laplace transform after ascertaining solution’s existence via fractional integral and integral operator methods

We study and present an important concept in module theory, namely, neutrosophic fine module. Fine property for modules and rings. We denote the module as a fine module. We investigate several facts about the relationships between a fine module and ring. Projective and injective modules have a direct relationship with the -module. We prove that every continuous module is an module, and the discrete module is an module. When has a perfect property, then every guasi-projective over has a fine property. We show that every divisible module over the field is a fine module. We study a famous property of a submodule of , and we present some concepts that have a direct relationship with a fine module, namely, finitely generated submodule and flat modules. We also prove that every cyclic module in every submodule of is isomorphic to the summand of . Then, is a fine module if it has a projective cover. We demonstrate that a fine finitely generated faithful multiplication module, , over ring is a C-F-fine module if and only if is a P-F-fine ring. We prove that fine ring is called a P-F-fine ring if and only if every faithful multiplication fine module is a P-F-fine ring.

In the presence of high correlation between independent variables in the linear regression model, which is known as the multicollinearity problem, the ordinary least squares estimator produces large sample variations. Several estimators have been recommended to overcome this problem. One of these estimators is the estimator of ridge regression, which leads to biased estimated coefficients. However, it has a smaller variance than ordinary least squares estimators, so it may have a smaller mean squared error (MSE). In this study, a new estimator that combines ridge regression and ordinary least squares estimators is proposed. The performance of the recommended estimator is evaluated using the mean square error criterion after obtaining the estimator’s properties. The proposed estimator outperforms ordinary least squares and ridge regression estimators in terms of MSE. In addition, the performance of the proposed estimator is studied via simulation and by using a set of real data to demonstrate the theoretical results.

Efflorescence refers to the white deposit of salts that are deposited on the faces of buildings constructed using bricks, resulting from the evaporation of water loaded with dissolved salts. The source of these salts is usually from the raw material itself. It is an aesthetic issue that affects the durability of building units. This study aimed to treat this phenomenon chemically during the manufacturing process by adding inhibitors. Barium carbonate (BaCO3) was used as an inhibitor in proportions ranging from 2% to 20% added to Al-Nahrawan and Al-Angor clay, respectively. The samples were burned at 950 °C. Efflorescence test was performed according to ASTM C67-08. Apparent porosity, water absorption, and linear shrinkage tests were performed. The results of the tests showed that the efflorescence rate decreased as the inhibition rate increased, because barium carbonate led to the conversion of water-soluble salts into insoluble salts. The tests showed a slight increase in the percentage of pores and water absorption and an increase in the length of the samples as the barium carbonate percentage increased.

This study aimed to extract staphylococcal enterotoxin b (SEB) from various clinical samples (urine, wound, blood, and eye swab) in Iraq. SEB was further purified through ion exchange chromatography as a primary step followed by gel chromatography. Acids were altered through ammonium sulfate precipitation because ammonium sulfate completely meets requirements as a salt, including having a high dissolution rate in water, component ions that are safe for use with proteins, and low cost and being a low-heat solution and commercially available. Absorption peak (15–38) fractions that represent SEB with high activity were detected. After the extracted SEB was administered to laboratory animals (rats), strong pathogenicity signs, including lethargy, withdrawal, decline in activity, and change in the cornea, were observed, which lead to the death of the animals only 48 h after the second dose. The protein concentration was 0.2 mg/ml. We conclude that SEB is a highly potent super antigen that causes a range of histopathological changes in some body organs, and the severity of the effects depends on SEB dose, period, and experimental animals. In addition, SEB causes death in rare cases

COVID-19 induces a hyper-inflammatory immune response in cells, such as neutrophils and monocytes, and the release of various cytokines. Bronchoconstriction is one of the complications after a COVID-19 infection and mediated by hypersensitivity-inducing components, including immunoglobulin E (IgE) and specific IgE. Thus, this study explored the effects of some factors on some blood cells (basophils, monocytes, and eosinophils) and some immune mediators in patients who had COVID-19 infection. The study included 163 adult convalescent patients who had COVID-19 and complained of bronchial spasm and 75 healthy volunteer participants as controls. The patients visited Ramadi and Fallujah Teaching Hospitals, Anbar Province, Iraq, from September 2022 to May 2023. Complete cell blood count, anti-COVID-19 immunoglobulin M, immunoglobulin G, and interleukin 5, total IgE, and IgE specific for COVID-19 antigen were measured for each participant. Gender, severity, history of vaccination, and smoking status were reported. The effects of these factors on serological parameters were determined through data analysis. Results revealed that patients with severe COVID-19 infections had higher basophil counts and total IgE, specific IgE, and IL5 levels than patients with mild infections and the control. No significant differences were found between males and females in all the studied serological parameters. The same observation was found between smokers and nonsmokers. Vaccination had no effect on the studied parameters except IgG.

This study evaluated the inhibitory effectiveness of organic solvent (ethanol, chloroform, and ethyl acetate) extracts of secondary metabolites from bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Kytococcus sedentarius, and Pseudomonas fluorescens) isolated from the local environment in the city of Ramadi against bacterial growth. The diffusion method was used to investigate the susceptibility of the isolates to 10 different multidrug-resistant bacteria and biofilm producers isolated from clinical samples (urinary tract infections, diarrhea, wound infections, and burns). Alcoholic extracts have shown antibacterial activity against a wide range of bacteria, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Results showed that the ethanol extract of P. fluorescens highly inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus with an inhibition zone diameter of 23±2 mm. Meanwhile, it was less effective against Escherichia coli with an inhibition diameter of 10±2 mm. The chloroform extract of K. sedentarius had the highest activity against Acinetobacter baumanii with an inhibition zone diameter of 28±2 mm. The ethyl acetate extract of B. subtilis highly inhibited the growth of S. aureus with an inhibition zone diameter of 31±2 mm and had the lowest effectiveness against Klebsiella pneumonia with an inhibition diameter of 20±2 mm. The ethyl acetate extract of P. fluorescens had the highest inhibition against S. aureus bacteria (31±2 mm) and the lowest effectiveness against Pseudomonas. aeruginosa (9±1 mm).

Physalis angulata, a member of the Solanaceae family, is renowned for its therapeutic properties and medical applications. Its rich composition of potent chemical compounds render it valuable in many treatments and complementary therapies. The aforementioned statement is supported by extensive laboratory and in vivo research conducted in many locations where this plant is indigenous. This research aimed to confirm the presence of chemical compounds in the leaf extract via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. After preparing the ethanolic extract using the hot soak method and analyzing its active chemical components, the extract was found to contain 11 compounds. The two most significant compounds were octasiloxane and phytol, which were found to be present in percentages of 15.33% and 15.28%, respectively. The MTT technique was used to assess cytotoxicity by subjecting the extract to various concentrations (1000, 500, 250, 125, 62.5, and 31.75 µg). Additionally, the impact of the leaf extract on the wound healing process was evaluated using a mouse fibroblast cell line. Results indicated that the extract did not affect the rat embryonic fibroblasts. Furthermore, the percentage of cell growth inhibition escalated as the concentration of the extract dosage increased. The scratch test demonstrated the efficacy of the treatment in wound closure. The efficacy of the leaf extract in promoting wound healing has been shown in laboratory experiments

Infertility, the inability to have a child after 1 year of unprotected intercourse, is a major health problem. The two varieties of infertility, primary and secondary are both prevalent. Aim of research: This study aimed to measure the levels of some immunological factors in Iraqi females with primary and secondary infertility and compare them with those in fertile women. The correlation between these factors was also investigated. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on Al-Ramadi Teaching Hospital of Women and Children in Anbar, Iraq from 23 August 2023 to 31 December 2023. Ninety participants were recruited, including 60 infertile women (30 with primary infertility and 30 with secondary infertility) and 30 healthy women as a control group. All the participants were aged 18–45 years. Sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the blood serum level of adiponectin (ADP), visfatin, and resistin. For C-reactive protein (CRP), direct colorimetric method with kit provided from (GIESSE Diagnostics, Italy) was used. Results showed a significant increase in resistin (P≤0.001), ADP (P≤0.01) and CRP (P≤0.0001) levels in the serum of infertile women compared with those in fertile women. No statistical differences in visfatin were observed. Conclusion: ADP, resistin, and CRP were increased significantly in infertile women, and visfatin was not affected. The correlation among ADP, visfatin, resistin, and CRP was not significant.

The chemicals released by adipose tissues are essential for maintaining metabolic homeostasis. The lack of these molecules, resulting from either excessive adiposity or malfunctioning adipocytes, can induce obesity or diseases linked to obesity. Therefore, adipose tissues are regarded as an endocrine organ, and the way they affect target organs varies depending on where fat depots are located and how it functions. Understanding the secretome of adipose tissues in its entirety may offer critical new perspectives on the roles played by the body’s most crucial metabolic regulator. Leptin is one of the most powerful adipokines for controlling metabolism. It communicates feelings of hunger or fullness to the hypothalamus and regulates body weight by releasing neurotransmitters that modify energy expenditure and food intake. Leptin also enhances muscle fatty acid oxidation and suppresses the pathway that leads to fatty acid synthesis, which controls hepatic lipogenesis. Adiponectin, the most prevalent adipokine that is secreted, improves insulin sensitivity and partially reverses insulin resistance. To treat the inflammation and insulin resistance caused by obesity, researchers are currently looking into ways to raise adiponectin levels or adiponectin receptor activity. In women, fat coming from the female sex hormone is stored in the hips, buttocks, and thighs. Because of the difference in sex hormones, men are predisposed to storing belly fat. The percentage of estrogen triggered via the ovaries decreases when a woman reaches menopause, so the fat that was accumulated in the buttocks, hips, and thighs migrates to the middle and is then reserved in the abdomen. Adipose tissues make up 20%–25% of the body mass on average in a healthy individuals and can account for up to 10%–40% in some people depending on different factors. The proportion of this fat in the body may exceed its normal limit, causing many different diseases, including obesity, lipodermatosclerosis, lipoma, lipoatrophy, and Dercum’s disease.

The purpose of the study was to compare the efficiency of healthy lifestyle (healthy diet and exercise) in reducing weight gain risk. The study was a controlled experiment performed from 2023 to 2024, and three groups of males were selected (males with normal weight, overweight males, and males with type 1 obesity). Their daily lifestyle was determined. A healthy lifestyle was designed to prevent the risk of weight gain and related hormonal disorders. The study was conducted in the Maternity and Children Teaching Hospital in Ramadi City, Iraq. A total of 90 males were included: 60 males with body mass indices (BMIs) of more than 25 and 30 males with BMIs less than 25. The overweight and obese participants adopted the healthy lifestyle for four weeks. Anthropometric measurements, including BMI, waist circumference (WC), and fat percentage, were measured with a special formula, and serum leptin, testosterone, cortisol, and growth hormone (GH) concentrations were measured. Results showed considerable increases in BMI, WC, fat percentage, and cortisol and leptin hormone concentrations, whereas testosterone and GH concentrations considerably decreased in overweight and obese males compared with males with normal weight before they adopted the health lifestyle. Meanwhile, BMI, fat, WC, and leptin and cortisol concentrations decreased, and testosterone and GH concentrations increased. The concentrations of GH after 60 and 90 min of stimulation with clonidine in overweight and obese males considerably increased relative to their results before the adoption of the healthy lifestyle. Healthy eating and physical activity limited weight gain and improved hormonal results. Thus, lifestyle changes can improve overall health.