kerbala journal of pharmaceutical sciences

Background: Asthma is a persistent inflammatory pulmonary disease frequently was linked with elevated levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE), particularly in atopic individuals. The degree to which IgE levels correlate with asthma severity is clinically relevant for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Objective: To examine the association between serum IgE concentrations and asthma severity grade.
among patients in Hillah city.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Hillah, Iraq. Asthmatic patients are categorized into mild, moderate, and severe asthma groups based on FEV1% predicted values. Serum IgE levels were measured and stratified into two groups: <100 IU/mL and >100 IU/mL. The distribution of IgE levels across the asthma severity spectrum was analyzed.
Results: Among mild asthma patients (FEV1 > 80%), 64.3% had IgE levels <100 IU/mL and 35.7% had levels >100 IU/mL. In moderate cases (FEV1 60–80%), 55.2% had IgE >100 IU/mL. For severe asthma (FEV1 < 60%), 60.4% of patients presented with IgE >100 IU/mL. A progressive increase in elevated IgE prevalence with increased asthma severity was observed.
Conclusion: There is a clear positive association between increased IgE levels and increasing asthma severity. Monitoring serum IgE can aid in classifying asthma phenotypes and tailoring therapy.

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a global healthcare concern due to its robust efflux systems and ability to form biofilm, especially MDR strains. Our aim was to study the impact of hyaluronic acid-coated cadmium sulfide nanoparticles (CdSNPs-HA) on the expression of bacterial stress-responsive efflux genes. Green method utilizing Raphanus sativus root was used to synthesize the nanoparticles at an elevated temperature. Well diffusion methods were used to assess the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), and biofilm formation assays were determined using the 96-microtiter plate. Gene redundancy was identified using PCR, while gene expression was assessed using quantitative PCR (qPCR). The study’s results of SEM and TEM showed a successful HA coating with uniform and stable core-shell rod-like nanostructures. Fifty clinical Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates showed resistance to piperacillin-tazobactam (100%), cefepime (76%), and ceftriaxone (72%). Eighty-six percent of the isolates demonstrated the ability to produce biofilm. PCR results indicated 100% presence of acrB and oqxB efflux pump genes. Antibacterial activity of coated nanoparticles showed enhanced activity compared to uncoated CdSNPs. The MIC of CdSNps-HA was 3.12 mg/mL, compared to 12.5 mg/mL, and a larger inhibition zone was observed (16 mm vs. 13 mm), respectively. RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated more than 6-fold upregulation of acrB and 1.2-fold upregulation of oqxB upon exposure to CdSNPs-HA, compared with downregulation of uncoated nanoparticles. This pattern of regulation reflects a stress-induced response to nanoparticle exposure rather than direct inhibition of efflux. This highlights the complex adaptation of bacteria and suggests that HA-coating influences resistance pathways in a gene-specific manner.

Background
Antibiotic resistance, particularly to carbapenems, has become a major health problem in recent years, posing a significant challenge in treating hospital-acquired infections, including those caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae, a leading causative agent of these infections due to its high capacity to acquire multiple resistance mechanisms.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify New Delhi Metalo β-Lactamase 5 (NDM-5) in clinical isolates of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae obtained from patients in different hospitals at Karbala.
Methods: 158 Clinical samples were obtained at random from several hospitals in Karbala. The VITEK 2 system was used to identify and confirm Klebsiella pneumoniae based on staining, biochemical testing, and colony morphology. VITEK 2 was used to validate the antibiotic sensitivity test. The ABIO pure method was used to extract DNA., and the NDM gene was found using PCR.
Results: It was discovered that fifty isolates (31.6%) were Klebsiella pneumonia. Twenty-one (42%) of the isolates demonstrated AST resistance
to both imipenem and meropenem, according to VITEK-2. Nine samples (81.8%) contained NDM-1 and one sample (9.09%) had NDM-5, according to the results of standard sequencing.
Conclusion
This study revealed a considerable incidence of bacteria resistant to carbapenem. 42% of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from Karbala hospitals were resistant to imipenem and meropenem. More than half of these resistant bacteria had NDM genes, primarily NDM-1 and one NDM-5, indicating that treatment is challenging. The rise in NDM-5 is particularly worrisome. The results highlight the significance of good infection control, antimicrobial stewardship, and continuous monitoring. For quick identification, sophisticated diagnostic instruments like VITEK-2 were helpful. Future studies should look into the strains' genetic relatedness and possible gene transfer.

Background: Parkinson's disease is an age-related disease and is very common, ranking second only to Alzheimer's disease. It can be characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms that negatively affect the patient's daily functions to varying degrees. The purpose of this research was to investigate the possible relationship between α-synuclein and Retinol-Binding Protein 4 with some biochemical parameters in Iraqi patients suffering from PD. Methodology: Fifty patients with PD who attended Al-Ramadi Teaching Hospital as well as 30 full-matched healthy subjects were recruited. Then the concentrations of serum α-synuclein, RBP-4 and other biochemical index (including total protein, albumin, globulin, fasting serum glucose and uric acid) were tested using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA), spectrophotometric methods as well as calculation.
Results: The results showed a significant increase in serum alpha-synuclein and RBP-4 levels in patients with Parkinson's disease compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Significant increases were also observed in total protein, albumin, fasting glucose, and uric acid levels (P< 0.05), while globulin levels decreased only slightly (P=0.1415). A strong positive correlation was observed between alpha-synuclein and RBP-4. Receptor operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated the high diagnostic value of these biomarkers, with alpha-synuclein achieving an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.944 (sensitivity, 86.0%; specificity, 86.7%). In contrast, RBP-4 achieved perfect discrimination (AUC = 1.000, sensitivity = 100%, specificity = 100%).
Conclusion: The present findings show an association between serum alpha-synuclein proteins and serum RBP4, such that they may be further developed as a reliable biomarker for early and proper PD diagnosis. This will yield novel comprehension of the pathophysiological role of inflammation during this disease onset.

Background: Multidrug-resistant (MDR) uropathies have become a major global health concern due to the declining effectiveness of conventional antibiotics. This has driven the search for novel antimicrobial agents from natural sources, particularly Actinobacteria, which are well known for producing diverse bioactive metabolites. Among them, the genus Actinoplanes represents a promising but underexplored source of new antibiotics. This study aimed to investigate Actinoplanes isolates from Euphrates River sediments and evaluate their antibacterial potential against MDR urinary pathogens.
Methods Sediment samples were collected from the Euphrates River, and three Actinoplanes isolates (ASR1, ASR18, and ASR53) were obtained using selective culture techniques. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the agar plug diffusion method against MDR bacteria identified by the VITEK 2 Compact system. Phenotypic antibacterial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria.
Results: All isolates exhibited antibacterial activity, with ASR1 showing the strongest effect. Inhibition zones ranged between 10 and 25 mm against tested pathogens. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed their classification within the Actinoplanes genus. Chemical investigation of ASR1 led to the identification of three compounds: acarbose, teicoplanin, and actinoplanic acid. Acarbose demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria.
Conclusion: Euphrates River-derived Actinoplanes strains represent a promising natural source of novel antibiotics against MDR uropathies, supporting further exploration of freshwater ecosystems for drug discovery.

Background: Controlling infections is challenging due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. plant extract Resveratrol and lactic acid bacteria metabolites have antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, through mechanisms including the inactivation of virulence factors, and affecting membrane permeability and biofilm formation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of resveratrol and cell-free fluid (CFS) of the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum against the phenotypic characteristics and virulence factors of Gram-negative bacteria isolated from urinary tract infections.
Methods: We analyzed 212 urine specimens from patients with urinary tract infections and identified bacterial isolates using phenotyping methods and the automated VITEK-2 system. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the disc diffusion method, while the inhibitory effects of CFS and natural plant extracts were assessed using the agar well diffusion test. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was estimated using the microdilution method. Finally, the interaction between resveratrol and cell-free cellular extract (CFS) was investigated against several phenotypic traits and virulence factors in Gram-negative isolates.
Results: Gram-negative bacterial strains isolated from urinary tract infections were found to be resistant to several drugs. Resveratrol and CFS exhibited a significant bactericidal effect on the growth of Gram-negative isolates, with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) being 1000 µg/ml for resveratrol,

and 40 mg/ml for CFS. Sub inhibitory concentrations showed a clear effect on several studied traits, including reduced biofilm formation, capsule production, swarming motility, and the restoration of susceptibility to the antibiotics used in the study.
conclusion: The use of natural agents such as resveratrol and lactic acid bacteria products can
effectively modify the phenotypic traits and virulence factors of gram-negative bacteria, supporting their potential role as complementary or alternative strategies in the treatment for the causes of infection.

Background: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is a persistent middle ear infection commonly associated with bacterial pathogens, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The ability of this organism to form biofilm is considered a major factor contributing to chronicity, antibiotic resistance, and treatment failure. This study aimed to investigate biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa isolates obtained from CSOM patients and to compare different methods for biofilm detection.
Methodology: A total of 82 clinical specimens were collected from patients with chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) in Al-Najaf, Iraq, between September 2025 and January 2026. Among these specimens, 40 isolates were confirmed as Pseudomonas aeruginosa using conventional microbiological and biochemical methods. Biofilm formation was evaluated phenotypically by Congo Red agar (CRA) and quantitative microtiter plate assay (MTP). Genotypic detection of biofilm-associated genes (lecA, las, and pelA) was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Results: The MTP assay showed that 37 (92.5%) isolates were biofilm producers, including 8 (20.0%) strong, 22 (55.0%) moderate, and 7 (17.5%) weak producers. CRA detected biofilm formation in only 16 (40.0%) isolates. When compared with MTP, CRA demonstrated sensitivity of 43.2%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100%, and negative predictive value of 12.5%. PCR results revealed that lecA was the most prevalent gene (67.5%), followed by las (50.0%) and pelA (40.0%), while 92.5% of isolates carried at least one biofilm-associated gene.
Conclusion: In conclusion, biofilm formation is highly prevalent among P. aeruginosa isolates from CSOM patients. The microtiter plate assay was superior to Congo Red agar for phenotypic detection, while PCR confirmed the widespread genetic basis of biofilm formation. These findings highlight the important role of biofilm in persistence of CSOM and emphasize the need for accurate detection methods to improve therapeutic management.

Background: Diarrheal diseases remain a major public health challenge in developing countries, often linked to contaminated water and poor sanitation.
Objective: To compare the rates and etiological agents of diarrheal infections between Al-Obaidi city and Palestine Street city in Baghdad across two time periods (2007 and 2022) and to assess the role of water chlorination and sanitation infrastructure.
Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 patients with diarrhea. Stool specimens were examined for parasites, bacteria, and rotavirus (latex agglutination). Free residual chlorine in water was measured at three water stations.
Results: Infection rates in Al-Obaidi dropped from 50.66% in 2007 to 14% in 2022, while Palestine Street rates declined from 10.66% to 6.66%. Protozoan parasites (G. lamblia, E. histolytica, E. coli, T. hominis) were more prevalent in Al-Obaidi across all age groups. Rotavirus was detected only in children under 10 years. Salmonella infections were low in both areas, while Shigella was not detected. Vibrio cholerae was present only in Al-Obaidi in 2007 (6 cases) and absent in 2022. Chlorine levels in Al-Obaidi improved from 0.1 ppm at 2 km distance in 2007 to 0.6 ppm in 2022, while Palestine Street maintained adequate levels (>0.8 ppm) in both periods.
Conclusion: Marked reduction in diarrheal infections in Al-Obaidi between 2007 and 2022 corresponds with improved water infrastructure, sewage systems, and waste management. Palestine Street consistently maintained lower infection rates due to better baseline services. Environmental interventions are critical for controlling diarrheal diseases in urban settings.

Background: Neural tube defects (NTDs), a prevalent kind of central nervous system anomaly, are an important issue for the public. Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence and possible risk factors responsible of NTDs (Neural Tube Defects) in Karbala governorate.
Patients and Methods: a case - control study was conducted in the intensive care unit of the neonates in Karbala teaching hospital for children in Karbala / Iraq. The research was established over 6years period from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2023, included 600 case -control group and115 patient group.
Results: The most prevalent congenital anomalies were spina bifida (30.4%) and congenital hydrocephalus (28.7%). Maternal exposure to potential teratogenic factors (fever and radiation) was reported in 71.3% of cases compared with 40.0% of controls. Additionally, 28.7% of mothers in the case group reported using unprescribed medications during pregnancy. Preconception folic acid supplementation was received by only 37.4% of mothers in the case group, compared with 87.0% of mothers in the control group, representing a statistically significant difference between the two groups.
Conclusion: Spina bifida cystica was the most prevalent CNS defect observed in the current study, and the majority of mothers of the affected children did not receive folic acid supplementation during periconception (P < 0.05). Measures are needed to improve knowledge and implement suitable preventative health education measures, such as perinatal folic acid supplementation. and providing conventional prenatal care to moms of children at risk.

Background
Unexplained infertility remains a clinical problem, with emerging evidence that subclinical immunological factors may contribute to diminished ovarian reserve even when standard clinical parameters appear normal.
Methodology
A 90 women had 60 patients with primary unexplained infertility and 30 fertile controls included in a case-control study. Anti-ovarian antibodies were investigated by measuring the level of anti-ovarian antibodies, TNF-α, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and the quantity of E 2, TSH, and prolactin (PRL).
Results
For analysis, we used the Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman correlation, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) method. No clinical differences were observed in absolute levels of the measured marker for each of the patients and controls, but a correlation was found between TNF-α and AMH (r = -0.37, p < 0.05) and anti-ovarian antibodies and AMH (r = -0.27, p < 0.01), and correlations with age-dependent AMH in combination with hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian feedback were confirmed. In addition, ROC analysis indicated poor diagnostics and diagnosis for AMH and TNF-α (AUC 0.515 and 0.498, respectively)
Conclusion
Consistent with normal absolute levels, anti-ovarian antibodies and TNF-α show significant associations with ovarian reserve in women with unexplained infertility. These analyses may also reflect a potential role of subclinical immunological disruption on ovarian reserve over a continuum in normal ranges. While such markers are not diagnostic tools, they may play a role in understanding the reason for unexplained infertility and may make it possible to predict reproductive outcomes. More should be explored for their therapeutic impact.

Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disease which results in non-scarring hair loss due to inflammation. The pathogenesis may be due to immune dysregulation, systemic inflammation, micronutrient imbalance and possible thyroid dysfunction.
Methodology: A case-control study was conducted involving 50 patients with clinically diagnosed AA and 35 healthy controls. Serum cytokines (IL-4 and IFN-γ) were detected using ELISA. CRP was measured using an immunoturbidimetric method. CBC was analyzed using an automated hematology analyzer. Serum Folate, Ferritin, and TSH were detected using routine immunoassays. The statistical analysis consisted of normality testing, ROC curve analysis, independent t-test or Mann–Whitney test, as well as Spearman correlation.
Results: Levels of IL-4, IFN-γ, and CRP were significantly elevated in patients (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were detected in CBC. Serum levels of Ferritin and Folate were significantly reduced in AA individuals (p < 0.05). TSH showed a non-significant trend toward elevation (P = 0.079). Analysis of ROC demonstrated excellent diagnostic performance for IL-4 and CRP.
Conclusion: Alopecia areata has a multifactorial pathophysiology involving immune activation, systemic inflammation, and micronutrient deficiencies.

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic disorder, including insulin resistance, central obesity, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension which all these conditions promote the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes Miletus. Chronic low-grade inflammation is the feature of MetS, in which IL-6 is the key pro-inflammatory marker responsible for pathogenesis. Il-6 secreted by many cells’ types, especially adipose tissue. Its production stimulated by the IL-1β and TNF-α, as well as through Toll-like receptor activation, prostaglandins, and adipokines. Il-6 and CRP are the main factors responsible for obesity and insulin resistance. The persistent elevated level of IL-6 cause insulin resistance through suppressing the expression of GLUT-4 and IRS-1 via activation of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway and upregulation of SOCS3.
Methodology: In this case-control study, blood samples were obtained from 45 MetS Iraqi patients, that fit three or all the inclusion criteria. Also, the study included control group consist of 45 healthy individuals, the estimation of IL-6 expression was achieved via quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), while evaluation of biochemical tests was done by using automatically Abbott Architect c4000 Chemistry Analyzer.
Results: the final result show that measurement of IL-6 expression in patient group was significantly higher than control group, it was increased about seven folds compared to control group (p < 0.001). waist circumference, BMI, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure was significant elevated in patent than control group (p < 0.001) for all. Biochemical tests (FBG, Triglycerides, and HbA1c) in patient group was highly elevated than control group (p < 0.001) for all. Sex has non-significant to link with metabolic syndrome.
Conclusion: Over all, these results emphasize the pivotal involvement of IL-6-driven inflammatory pathways in the development and progression of MetS, and point to the promising utility of IL-6 gene expression as a highly sensitive and distinguishing diagnostic biomarker for MetS within the Iraqi population.

Background: In 2018, Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) were approved as a strong second-line therapy after metformin for diabetic patients with defined atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD), heart failure (HF), and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Large-scale clinical trials showed a considerable decline in the cardiovascular death, hospitalization for heart failure, and prognosis for kidney disease.
Objective: To determine if patients without diabetes could benefit clinically from using SGLT2i.
Methods: Review the impact of SGLT2i in the non-diabetic arm in eight large-scale trials. The patients that were recruited had established heart failure (reduced or preserved ejection fraction), myocardial infarction, or chronic kidney disease.
Results: In four large-scale trials that included non-diabetic patients with heart failure, two trials that recruited patients with myocardial infarction, and two studies involving chronic renal diseases, SGLT2i approved a significant reduction of cardiovascular death and/or the rate of hospitalization.
Conclusion: SGLT2i have shown proven clinical benefits beyond glycemic control. Multiple mechanisms contribute to the therapeutic impact of SGLT2i in non-diabetic patients with heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and myocardial infarction.

Background: Carbon dots (CDs) obtained from edible plant sources can combine low-toxicity chemistry with useful antibacterial activity, particularly when immobilized in soft hydrogel matrices. This work explores lemon-derived CDs embedded in a polysaccharide network as a green antimicrobial platform.
Methodology: Lemon juice was thermally carbonized at 180 °C to generate lemon-derived CDs, which were subsequently incorporated into a starch–carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) hydrogel via free-radical crosslinking. The CDs were characterized by STEM, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential measurements, FTIR, and XRD. Hydrogels containing increasing CDs volume fractions (C0–C4) were evaluated for antibacterial activity against clinical isolates of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus using agar diffusion assays and broth microdilution to determine MIC and MBC values.
Results: STEM revealed quasi-spherical CDs with core diameters between 2 and 22 nm and an average size of 7.8 ± 3.6 nm. Dynamic light scattering indicated hydrated clusters in water with a number-mean hydrodynamic diameter of 128.5 ± 34.9 nm and a Z-average of 150 nm, while the zeta potential (−21.3 ± 0.5 mV) reflected a moderately anionic surface. FTIR and XRD together confirmed turbostratically disordered carbon domains bearing abundant hydroxyl, carboxyl, and amide-type groups. The CDs-free matrix (C0) and low-loading formulations (C1, C2) produced no inhibition zones, whereas C3 and C4 generated clear agar diffusion halos. C3 yielded inhibition zones of 14.33 ± 0.58 mm (E. coli) and 12.00 ± 1.73 mm (S. aureus), while C4 reached 18.00 ± 2.65 mm and 16.00 ± 1.00 mm, respectively (p = 0.0133). Broth macrodilution showed MIC/MBC values of 150/150 mg hydrogel/mL for C3 against both strains and 50/50 mg/mL (E. coli) and 50/100 mg/mL (S. aureus) for C4.
Conclusion: Lemon-derived CDs produced via a simple thermal route and immobilized in a starch–CMC network can impart tunable antibacterial activity to a low-cost, polysaccharide-based hydrogel, highlighting a green and scalable platform for developing antimicrobial soft materials.

The resistances to drugs that occur through changes in the Leishmania parasites are making global health increasingly precarious, and limiting the ability to manage clinically visceral leishmaniasis and cutaneous leishmaniasis. The work detailed in this study combines molecular and cellular investigations of several layers of drug resistance via antimony (Sb) in Leishmania donovani by considering components involved in this resistance – from membrane-bound transporters to changes in translation of proteins to metabolic manipulation of host macrophages. Using lines of sensitive (S-strain) and resistant (R-strain) L. donovani that were derived from clinical isolates or developed in the laboratory, we examined drug accumulation over time, the expression of specific genes, the translational activity of these genes and the polarization of the macrophage's immune system. Our results were quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and showed that R-strains accumulate 74.1% less intracellular tri-valent antimony at physiological temperatures; this was due to the down-regulation of the aquaglyceroporin 1 (AQP1) gene transcript between 65-78%. In addition, the MRP (multidrug resistance protein (ABCB5)) ABC-transporter was up-regulated 5.12 times allowing the sequestration of metal-thiol conjugates in the intracellular environment. Overall polysome profiling and quantitative proteomic analysis of translation initiation factors indicated that S-strains translate proteins during oxidative stress and R-strains, during oxidative stress, undergo translational reprogramming and maintain the translation of survival proteins by going around the phosphorylation of eIF2-alpha. At the host-parasite interface, using R-strain infected macrophages showed an anti-inflammatory M2-type polarization, with decreases in TNF-alpha of 55% and increases in IL-10 of 2.4 times. Collectively, these results demonstrate that drug resistance to antimony is more than just a transport barrier – it is a coordinated systemic response at several levels that completely alters both the proteome of the parasite and the immunological landscape of the host.

Introduction: Rheum rhabarbarum (Rhubarb), locally known as "Rivas," is a traditional medicinal plant widely consumed in Northern Iraq for various gastrointestinal ailments. Although it has an extensive ethnomedical history, the specific gastroprotective efficacy of the local Iraqi ecotype remains scientifically under-documented.
Methods: Twenty-four Sprague Dawley rats were assigned to four groups: normal control, R. rhabarbarum methanolic extract (500 mg/kg), ulcer control (96% ethanol) and positive control (Omeprazole 20 mg/kg). Mucus weight, gastric pH and ulcer inhibition rates were calculated. Oxidative stress markers (CAT, SOD, MDA) and inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, IL-6, TNF-α) were analyzed in gastric tissues.
Results: The Iraqi R. rhabarbarum extract demonstrated a significant ulcer inhibition rate of 82.0%, which was comparable to the Omeprazole group (84.0%). The extract significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and MDA levels, while significantly elevating antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT, SOD) and IL-10 levels (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: This preliminary study provides the first pharmacological evidence supporting the traditional use of Iraqi R. rhabarbarum as a potent gastroprotective agent. Its efficacy is mediated through a synergistic mechanism of antioxidant defense, mucosal protection and anti-inflammatory modulation.

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection contributes to mucosal and systemic inflammation in dyspeptic patients. We aimed to characterize serum interleukin-8 (IL-8), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and Gastrin-17 (G-17) in relation to H. pylori stool antigen, and to evaluate their combined diagnostic value, in Iraqi adults with dyspepsia.
Methodology: This cross-sectional case–control study enrolled 170 adults at the Digestive Diseases Centre, Al-Najaf Al-Ashraf, between October 2025 and May 2026: H. pylori-positive dyspepsia (n = 60), H. pylori-negative dyspepsia (n = 60), and healthy controls (n = 50). H. pylori was detected by stool-antigen ELISA. Serum IL-8, hs-CRP, G-17, pepsinogen I (PG-I) and II (PG-II) were quantified by ELISA. Group comparisons, Spearman correlation, multivariable linear regression, and ROC analysis (DeLong test) were performed.
Results: H. pylori-positive participants exhibited significantly higher IL-8 (71.4 ± 20.9 pg/mL), hs-CRP (median 8.0 mg/L), G-17 (14.1 pmol/L) and PG-II, and a lower PG-I/PG-II ratio, than H. pylori-negative dyspepsia and controls (all p < 0.001). Stool-antigen optical density correlated with IL-8 (ρ = 0.490, p < 0.001). After adjustment for age, sex, BMI, smoking and NSAID use, H. pylori positivity independently predicted IL-8 (β = 21.34), log₁₀ hs-CRP (β = 0.51) and log₁₀ G-17 (β = 0.18). A combined biomarker panel achieved an AUC of 0.947 (95% CI 0.905–0.989).
Conclusion: Serum IL-8, hs-CRP and G-17 are coordinately elevated in H. pylori-positive dyspepsia and, in combination, show promising diagnostic performance that warrants prospective external validation.

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease that is now considered a systemic disease with immune and endocrine features.
Methodology: This case-control study was conducted on 80 Iraqi adults; 45 patients and 35 equivalent controls were incorporated. ELISA and an automated analyzer were used to quantify cytokines (IL-10, IL-17A, IFN-γ) and evaluate thyroid function (TSH, T3, T4), and serum calcium concentrations of the Iraqi patients. Statistical analysis: Independent t-tests; age-stratified evaluation (p<0.05 significant), between August 2025 and December 2025.
Results: Patients showed a consistent cytokine imbalance: IL-10 decreased (9.78 ± 2.62 vs 12.12 ± 5.67 pg/mL, p=0.016), IFN-γ increased (69.37 ± 4.26 vs 15.70 ± 2.52 pg/mL, p=0.001), and IL-17A increased (10.58 ± 3.65 vs 8.41 ± 4.23 pg/mL, p=0.016). T3 and T4 were within the reference range, while TSH was elevated (4.68 ± 0.7 vs 2.59 ± 0.8 μIU/mL, p < 0.001), suggesting possible subclinical thyroid dysfunction. Calcium levels were reduced (8.30 ± 0.7 vs 8.84 ± 0.8 mg/dL, p=0.002). Age-stratified analyses revealed greater alterations with age.
Conclusion: The findings emphasize the systemic inflammatory and endocrine dysregulation throughout psoriasis. To the best of our knowledge, these results demonstrate the interconnectedness of the immunological and endocrine evaluation in psoriasis and stress the importance of this study when managing psoriasis and the utilization of cytokine profiling and thyroid screening to gauge disease severity and systemic complications of psoriasis.

Background: The aim of the current study is to reveal the gene expression of the Osterix gene and its relationship to bone regeneration and hormonal indicators in women with osteoporosis according to their physiological menopausal status, the current study was conducted after obtaining the necessary ethical approvals from the relevant authorities.
Methodology: Samples were collected from women with osteoporosis, aged 39 to 60 years, 40 of whom were premenopausal and 50 postmenopausal. Estrogen, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone levels were measured, as were calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase levels in the patients\' serum using the appropriate kit for each test. Osterix gene expression was also measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).
Results:The results showed that postmenopausal women with osteoporosis had statistically significant decreases in estrogen, vitamin D, and calcium levels, as well as statistically significant increases in parathyroid hormone and alkaline phosphatase levels, compared with premenopausal women with osteoporosis.
Conclusion: The results also showed a significant decrease in Osterix gene expression in postmenopausal women compared to premenopausal women, and correlation analysis revealed a positive relationship between estrogen levels and Osterix gene expression for all women.

Background: Oxidative stress, which happens when there are too many free radicals and not enough detoxification in the body, is linked to many long-term health problems.
Methods: In this research, a number of chalcone derivatives were synthesized, and their molecular structures were validated by infrared spectroscopy and other physicochemical analyses. We used computer programs to look at their pharmacokinetic behavior and see how they might be absorbed and metabolized in the body. We used a DPPH radical scavenging assay to test the antioxidant powers in a lab setting.
Results: Four chalcone derivatives (B1–B4) were efficiently synthesized with structural validation accomplished using FT-IR spectroscopy and physico-chemical characteristics. The SwissADME analysis verified advantageous pharmacokinetic characteristics and drug-likeness for every derivative. The DPPH radical scavenging assay indicated that all synthesized chalcone derivatives demonstrated robust antioxidant activity similar to the positive control ascorbic acid, establishing the chalcone scaffold as an efficient antioxidant pharmacophore.
Conclusion: Four chalcone derivatives (B1-B4) were successfully synthesized via the environmentally favorable Claisen-Schmidt condensation method. The drug-likeness criteria were met based on their ADME profiles, and they demonstrated substantial antioxidant activity comparable to that of standard ascorbic acid in DPPH radical scavenging assays. In medicinal chemistry, these compounds were identified as synthetic scaffolds with potential for enhancement and development into antioxidant agents for future therapeutic applications

Background: Congenital disorders are one of the main causes of the global burden of disease, accounting for 94% of global cases and are one of the leading causes of under-five mortality.
Globally, the number of recognizable patterns of human malformations have more than tripled during the last 25 years
Objectives: To identify the sociodemographic features, types of congenital anomalies, and possible risk factors among births in Karbala City, Iraq during the period 2018–2023.
Methods: In this retrospective observational study, a total of 605 neonates with apparent congenital anomalies were enrolled from Karbala teaching hospital for pediatric where majority of sick newborn care occur at Karbala city, Iraq during the period extending between 2018- 2023. Hospital records were used for data collection. These data included the neonates'
demographic and clinical characteristics, maternal sociodemographic data, Description of defects from hospital records was described according to ICD-10 (International classification of diseases &related health problems-10th revision) that’s introduced by WHO.
statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel & Graphical Pad Prism 9.
Results: The socio-demographic and clinical profile of the study group (N=605), slight Male infants accounted for 338 cases (55.9%), Regarding outcomes, 152 infants (25.1%) died, whereas 453 (74.9%) survived. The majority 415 (68.6%) had normal birth weight. Most mothers were aged 20–35 years 514(85.0%), 113 cases (18.7%) have abortion history. 593 (98.0%) of cases reported no risk exposure. The majority of mothers were healthy 587(97.0%) Urban residence accounted for 341 (56.4%), Positive Consanguinity was reported in 260 (43.0%) of cases and a history of previous congenital anomalies was present in 52 (8.6%) of mothers. Single pregnancy was reported in 594(98.2%) of cases. Gastrointestinal anomalies were the most frequent 200 (33.1%), followed by cardiovascular anomalies 148 (24.5%).
The highest Annual Distribution of congenital anomalies in 2021 includes 170 (28.1%) with variable distribution over the rest years.
Gastrointestinal (33.1%) and Cardiovascular (24.5%) anomalies, classified as "Critical Surgical" and "High Survival Risk,"
Conclusion: A six-year study in Karbala, Iraq, revealed a high burden of congenital anomalies, with gastrointestinal and cardiovascular defects accounting for 57.6% of cases and a 25.1% mortality rate. The findings indicate a high-acuity surgical population linked to a 43% rate of consanguinity, highlighting the need for improved prenatal screening and specialized pediatric surgical care.

Background: Quorum sensing (QS) and motility are vital for biofilm development and pathogenicity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The rhlR gene regulates the synthesis of rhamnolipids and biofilm maturity, whereas the fliC gene codes for flagellin, which is indispensable for cell adhesion to surfaces. In this project, we will investigate (a) the frequency of rhlR and fliC genes in pediatric isolates using PCR; (b) genetic diversity by DNA sequencing; (c) susceptibility to antimicrobials; and (d) correlations between gene load, biofilm development, and antibiotic resistance
Methodology: This study analyzed 100 isolates of P. aeruginosa from pediatric patients (6 months to 15 years old) with different infections in three Iraqi cities. The TCP test was used to quantify biofilm formation. rhlR and fliC were detected in 30 selected strains using PCR and subsequently sequenced (three amplicons for each gene). The antibiotic susceptibility test was performed against nine antipseudomonal antibiotics.
Results: In total, 70% of strains were found to produce moderate-to-strong biofilm. rhlR was identified in 43.3% and fliC in 33.3% of strains. Sequence analysis showed that rhlR had an identity value of 96.3-97.7%, with 18 reliable SNPs and a stop-gained mutation in codon 49. In contrast, there was a high variability in the fliC gene, showing an identity percentage of 31.6-49.4% within a small conserved core region of 79 bp. However, BLASTn analysis showed 99% identity with known sequences for the entire gene length (493 bp). Antibiotic resistance was highest with Aztreonam (35%) and Imipenem (28%). Spearman correlation indicated that the presence of rhlR and fliC positively correlated with antibiotic resistance severity (rho = 0.525, p = 0.0085).
Conclusion: rhlR and fliC are present in a considerable number of pediatric strains, where the fliC gene is highly variable. Moreover, the positive correlation between gene burden and resistance severity supports the development of new quorum-sensing-based therapies.

Background
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is decline of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and the presence of albuminuria are important risk factors for the eventual development of kidney failure, which frequently progresses over time.
Methodology
A case-control study includes 50 patients with CKD and 50 age-matches healthy from male and female and between the ages of 20 and 65 year from September 2025 to November 2025.The controls were clinically evaluated by a specialized physician. This investigation was carried out in Karbala at the Imam Al-Hussein medical city.
Results
According to the results of biochemical indicators, chronic kidney disease patients had significantly higher levels of urea and creatinine and lower levels of eGFR when compared to the control group. According to the results of immunological parameters, chronic kidney disease patients had significantly higher levels of IL-17 and IL-10. Significant negative and positive correlations between anti-inflammatory cytokine levels and renal function markers were found via correlation analysis. Strong selective power for urea (AUC=0.95), creatinine (AUC=0.91) and eGFR(AUC=0.92) and excellent diagnostic performance for IL-10 (AUC= 0.98) and IL-17 (AUC=0.97) were demonstrated by ROC analysis. The present study aims to evaluate biochemical disorders such as urea, creatinine, eGFR and inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10, IL-17 in chronic kidney disease patients and their correlation with decrease of kidney functions.
Conclusion
Higher levels of urea and creatinine and lower levels of eGFR were identified as a risk factors for kidney disease progression and higher concentrations of pro inflammatory cytokines such as IL-17 and anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 were identified as inflammatory markers for renal functions disorders in patients with CKD, also age and BMI are determinant factors for CKD.

Background: Cancer is still one of the global leading causes of death, and there are currently therapies that have limited efficacy because they don’t act on every type of cancer. This has triggered extensive curiosity about novel bioactive chemicals, such as bacterial toxins, including Exotoxin A from P. aeruginosa, as potential targets of anticancer treatment.
Methodology: A total of 356 clinical samples were collected and tested for P. aeruginosa with common biochemical methods, the VITEK II system, and PCR targeting 16S rRNA and exoA genes. Exotoxin A concentrations were measured by ELISA, and the toxin was partially purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation and ion exchange with gel filtration chromatography. A549 lung cancer cells and normal human fibroblast (NHF) cells were compared with purified toxin cytotoxicity using the MTT assay. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was measured and toxin biofilm inhibition activity was calculated.
Results: Of all samples investigated, 124 (34.8%) were P. aeruginosa. Among the isolates, a great resistance to antibiotics was found including ciprofloxacin. Molecular analysis confirmed that 16S rRNA and ExoA genes were present in all isolates (100%). Exotoxin A concentration varied from 1634.13 to 4793.79 pg/mL, and levels were higher in isolates that came from burns. The purified toxin had a molecular weight of about 65.8 kDa. Functional experiments demonstrated that A549 cells exhibited a potent dose-dependent cytotoxic effect while NHF cells were less affected, implying that the substance was selectively lethal. No remarkable antibacterial activity was detectable using MIC test, but there was varying antibiofilm activity for all the strains of bacteria.
Conclusion: Exotoxin A has shown to exhibit selective and major cytotoxic activity against lung cancers, and may be a candidate for targeted anti-cancer therapy. The limited antibacterial activity and the variable antibiofilm activity corroborate the selectivity of this product for eukaryotic cells and its applicability for future therapy should be better investigated.

Background: Tamoxifen continues to be a pillar in the management of breast cancer with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, but there is a lack of interindividual consistency in the responses to therapy. CYP1B1 is one of the most important enzymes in estrogen metabolism; genetic polymorphisms in the enzyme can alter metabolism and drug toxicity.
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the association between CYP1B1 polymorphisms (rs1056836 and rs1056827), metabolic and hormonal biomarkers, and adverse drug reactions in tamoxifen-treated breast cancer patients.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 139 breast cancer patients receiving tamoxifen therapy. Demographic data, clinical features, lipid profile, calcium, and vitamin D3 were evaluated. PCR-based genotyping of CYP1B1 was performed at rs1056836 and rs1056827. Statistical tests were ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, chi-square and correlation tests.
Results: The longer the disease period, the greater the tamoxifen treatment, and the higher the BMI, the greater the increase in triglycerides and VLDL (p < 0.05). The vitamin D3 level was also significantly lower in obese patients (p = 0.020). A close relationship was also observed between the rs1056827 genotype and LDL levels, with the GT genotype associated with higher LDL levels (p = 0.039).
Conclusion: Polymorphisms in CYP1B1, especially at the rs1056827, have the potential to alter lipid metabolism in patients who are on tamoxifen therapy for breast cancer. Dyslipidemia is a condition associated with prolonged tamoxifen use, underscoring the need for pharmacogenomic-based monitoring and individualized treatment plans.

Background: Vitiligo is a chronic skin condition that results in the loss of skin pigmentation due to the loss of functional melanocytes. Micronutrients, including zinc and vitamin D, along with inflammatory mediators, have been shown to impact immune response and skin health.
Objectives: To evaluate serum zinc and vitamin D levels in patients with vitiligo and healthy controls and to assess the relationship between these parameters and other biochemical markers.
Methods: A case-control study was conducted at the Dermatology Department, Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq (November 2025 – April 2026), enrolling 70 patients with vitiligo and 50 healthy controls. Serum Vitamin D3 was measured using an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (Elecsys Vitamin D Total III, Roche Diagnostics), and serum zinc was measured using a direct colorimetric method (Spinreact Zinc Color 5-Br-PAPS kit).
Results: Vitamin D3 was highly and significantly lower in patients (15.51 ± 0.739 vs. 25.90 ± 1.458 ng/mL; p<0.001). Zinc showed a borderline lower level in patients (82.19 ± 2.143 vs. 96.08 ± 6.605 mcg/dL; p=0.058). Vitamin D3 demonstrated excellent ROC performance (AUC=0.813; 95% CI: 0.738–0.888; sensitivity 95.7%; specificity 72.0% at ≤26.5 ng/mL cut-off). Zinc showed no significant ROC performance (AUC=0.504).
Conclusions: Vitamin D3 and zinc deficiencies are the most consistent and clinically significant biochemical abnormalities in vitiligo, independent of sex, suggesting an important role for vitamin D deficiency in the disease process. Vitamin D3 and zinc did not show significant correlations with the inflammatory markers, suggesting that nutritional imbalance and inflammation may run in parallel, not as the same process.

Background: Trastuzumab is a human monoclonal antibody, an anti-HER2 antibody that binds to the HER2 receptors and suppresses downstream signalling pathways of HER2-positive breast cancer. The genetic variant of the FCGR3A protein is the rs396991, which is a SNP in the FCGR3A gene, and the protein is a Fc gamma receptor.
Purpose: The overall objective of the study is to investigate the impact of the mutation of FCGR3A gene, which is the rs396991, on the efficacy of trastuzumab.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study which involved 100 Iraqi women who are diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer, and receiving trastuzumab treatment. Genotyping of the SNP rs396991 SNP was done using AS-PCR. The response of treatment was determined by measuring serum levels of the tumor marker CA 15-3.
Results: The frequency of the studied cohort genotyping of the genotyped genotype of the exon deletion (rs396991) was 28 (wild type), 61 (heterozygous), and 11 (homozygous variant). The frequencies of genotypes were not in the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (P < 0.0104). Analyzing the levels of CA 15-3 no statistically significant differences were found among the rs396991 genotypes (p = 0.431). There was no significant relationship between CA 15-3 levels and disease and duration of treatment.
Conclusion: this study suggests that the genetic polymorphism of rs396991 in the FCGR3A gene variability is distributed among breast cancer patients. At the same time, there is no variation in the tumor marker level, indicating that there is no need to modify the prescription guideline for trastuzumab. Similarly, CA 15-3 levels were not associated with disease or treatment duration in this cohort. Further studies with larger sample sizes may fully elucidate the impact of this genetic variant on trastuzumab efficacy.

Background: UTIs are among the most common complications in beta-thalassemia patients, and the most serious problems due to iron overload, necessitating iron chelation, leading to renal dysfunction, increased UTI susceptibility, such as pyelonephritis, which can all lead to renal tubular impairment. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of NGAL protein as a biomarker for detecting UTIs in patients with thalassemia major.
Methodology: There were 90 people in this prospective case-control study. There were three groups of people: group one had 30 beta-thalassemia major patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs), group two had 30 beta-thalassemia major patients without UTIs, all of whom were between the ages of 10 and 50, and group three had 30 healthy controls between the ages of 10 and 30. All participants' urine samples were collected in sterile wide-mouth vials from all groups and subsequently centrifuged at 3000 rpm to differentiate between the cases and the control groups. The supernatant was then refrigerated at -20°C until the study began, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were performed.
Results: showed a significant increase in NGAL levels in patients compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Analyses also revealed a significant correlation between elevated NGAL levels and the occurrence of urinary tract infections (p = 0.002). No statistically significant differences in NGAL levels were observed between males and females across any of the studied groups (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Urine NGAL can be used as a useful biomarker for detecting kidney involvement in patients with thalassemia major; however, its ability to differentiate between patients with and without urinary tract infections appears to be limited.

One of the most serious issues with poorly soluble medicines is their limited bioavailability. The situation is considerably more complicated for medications such as cinnarizine, ketoprofen, and dapsone, which are poorly soluble in aqueous environments and are classified as BCS class II by the biopharmaceutical classification system. Formulation as nanosuspension is an appealing and promising solution to these difficulties. Nanosuspension is made up of a pure, weakly water-soluble medication suspended in a dispersion of matrix material. The preparation of nanosuspension is easy and applicable to all medicines that are insoluble in water. Nanosuspension not only overcomes the problem of poor solubility and bioavailability, but it also changes the pharmacokinetics of the drug, improving its safety and efficacy. This review article discusses nanosuspension preparation methods, characterization, and applications.

Background: Asthma is a wide prevalence chronic inflammatory condition in children, characterized by varying degree airway obstruction and differential exacerbation exacerbations. Interleukin-17A (IL-17A), a pro-inflammatory factor is involved in pathogenesis of asthma and no longer forms of airways, isolation of isolation of steroids highlights the potential challenges in treating of disease. This study is aimed to evaluate the serum levels of IL-17A in children with asthma and to study the relation with different sociodemographic and clinical factors, including asthma severity, family history of asthma, and response to inhaled corticosteroids to improve understand its potential role in the characterization of disease. potential challenges in treating of disease. This study is aimed to evaluate the serum levels of IL-17A in children with asthma and to study the relation with different sociodemographic and clinical factors, including asthma severity, family history of asthma, and response to inhaled corticosteroids to improve understand its potential role in the characterization of disease.
Patients and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study in Karbala teaching hospital for children at asthma out-patient clinic was performed with 90 asthmatic patients aged 7 months to 16 years. Structured questionnaires were used to collect clinical data, such as medication regimen, family history, control level, and severity of asthma. Serum samples were collected to detect IL-17 in by using ELISA assay kit.
Results: The mean serum IL-17A level was 1.31 ± 1.57 pg/mL. IL-17A levels were higher in moderate asthma (1.523 ± 2.002 pg/mL) and well-controlled asthma (1.692 ± 2.414 pg/mL). notably, a significant correlation (p = 0.03) was found between increased IL-17A levels and a family history of asthma. Males, urban residents, and children without pets or tobacco smoke exposure had slightly higher IL-17A levels, though differences were not statistically significant.
Conclusion: Interleukin-17A levels were higher in patients with moderate asthma. Elevated IL-17A was associated with positive family history of asthma. These results suggest that IL-17A may be a biomarker for pediatric asthma.

Background: Hyperprolactinemia is a known endocrine disorder that adversely affects bone metabolism. Its relationship with vitamin D status and serum electrolytes in osteoporotic women remains poorly characterized.
Methodology: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted on 81 women with confirmed osteoporosis: 30 with normal prolactin levels and 51 with hyperprolactinemia. Serum levels of prolactin, vitamin D, calcium, sodium, potassium, and chloride were measured and compared using independent t –tests.
Results: Hyperprolactinemic women showed significantly lower vitamin D (18.66 vs 25.97 ng /mL, p<0.0001) and markedly reduced levels of all measured electrolytes (p<0.001) compared to normoprolactinemic women.
Conclusion: Hyperprolactinemia is associated with significant reductions in vitamin D and electrolyte concentration in osteoporotic women, suggesting a multifactorial mechanism in prolactin – induced bone loss that warrants clinical attention.

Cancer is a complex and heterogeneous disease driven by cumulative genetic and epigenetic alterations that disrupt cell cycle checkpoints, apoptosis, and differentiation pathways. Oncogenic transformation involves activating mutations in proto-oncogenes, loss of tumor suppressor functions such as TP53, aberrant signaling cascades including Ras and cyclins/CDKs, telomerase activation, and angiogenesis promotion, collectively facilitating uncontrolled proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Conventional chemotherapeutics, such as intercalating agents, alkylating drugs, platinum cross-linkers, and hormone receptor antagonists, target DNA replication and mitotic processes. However, their low selectivity often causes systemic cytotoxicity and dose-limiting adverse effects. Furthermore, intrinsic or acquired resistance frequently arises from tumor heterogeneity, genetic instability, altered drug metabolism, efflux pumps [e.g., P-glycoprotein], and mutations in drug targets. Advances in medicinal chemistry and molecular oncology have enabled the rational design of targeted therapies with improved specificity. Strategies include receptor-mediated inhibition of hormone-dependent neoplasms, microtubule disruption via tubulin-binding agents, angiogenesis suppression [e.g., VEGF inhibitors], and gene-directed enzyme prodrug therapy [GDEPT] or antibody-directed enzyme prodrug therapy [ADEPT], which allow spatiotemporal control of cytotoxicity. Antibody–drug conjugates exploit tumor-associated antigens to deliver potent payloads selectively, while viral vectors provide site-specific enzyme expression within tumor microenvironments, expanding the therapeutic arsenal. Advanced analytical and bioanalytical approaches play a critical role in precision oncology by enabling quantitative monitoring of drug exposure, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. Techniques such as liquid biopsy for circulating tumor DNA, quantitative LC–MS/MS, and multi-omics profiling support therapy optimization, early detection of resistance, and adaptive treatment strategies. Integrating molecular insights with analytical technologies enhances therapeutic indices, minimizes systemic toxicity, and informs personalized intervention. The evolution from non-specific cytotoxins to molecularly targeted and gene-directed therapies underscore a paradigm shift in oncology, where mechanistic understanding and analytical rigor converge to improve patient outcomes and promote durable cancer remission.
Conclusion
Cancer therapy has evolved significantly from conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy toward more selective and mechanism-based strategies, including hormone-targeted therapies, monoclonal antibodies, and gene-directed approaches. These advancements have improved treatment specificity and reduced systemic toxicity, contributing to better therapeutic outcomes in oncology. Alongside these developments, analytical chemistry has become an essential component in cancer research and clinical practice. Modern analytical techniques such as LC–MS/MS, biomarker profiling, and biosensor-based detection systems provide accurate tools for drug quantification, therapeutic monitoring, and early cancer detection. The integration of advanced therapeutic strategies with robust analytical methodologies is therefore critical for the development of precision oncology and for improving future cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Background: Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder in hemoglobin characterized by chronic hemolytic anemia and vaso-occlusive complications. splenic sequestration is one of the most serious early-life complications, a life-threatening condition resulting from the rapid pooling of sickled red blood cells in the spleen, leading to acute anemia and hypovolemic shock. This condition primarily affects children under 5 years and carries high recurrence and mortality rates.
Methodology: This is retrospective cross-sectional study that conducted 101 patients with sickle cell disease from August 2023 to October 2024. The study took place Hereditary Hematological center in Karbala Provence. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire
Results: A total of 101 sickle cell disease patients with mean age 7 ± 2.37 years were included. Most were aged 7–10 years (63.4%) and male account (56.4%), with 65.3% reporting parental consanguinity. No significant association was found between sociodemographic factors and splenic sequestration. The majority of splenic sequestration cases were diagnosed between ages 1–3 years (78.3%). Although frequent sequestration episodes were more common in older children, the association with age group was not significant. A significant association was observed between splenic sequestration and disease type (p = 0.027), with SS-type accounting for 73.9% of cases. Splenectomy was significantly associated with frequent sequestration episodes (p = 0.005). Hydroxyurea use showed no significant link with sequestration, while regular blood transfusion was strongly associated (p = 0.001).
Conclusion: Splenic sequestration is a significant early complication in children with sickle cell disease, especially those with the SS genotype. Most cases occurred between ages 1–3, with no significant link to sociodemographic factors. Frequent sequestration episodes were strongly associated with the need for splenectomy, while regular blood transfusion was also significantly linked to sequestration. In contrast, hydroxyurea use showed no significant association.

Background: In Crohn’s disease (CD), reliable serum biomarkers that simultaneously reflect both systemic inflammation and nutritional compromise are needed to guide clinical stratification, particularly in regional settings where endoscopy and faecal calprotectin are not routinely available. This study evaluated whether serum interleukin-23 (IL-23), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) stratify Iraqi CD patients across the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) and the Harvey–Bradshaw Index (HBI), and explored their behavior in patients who achieved mucosal healing under infliximab.
Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Al-Najaf Gastrointestinal Tract Hospital, Iraq, between November 2025 and February 2026. The cohort included 67 consecutive adults with established CD: 32 with active disease and 35 on long-term infliximab maintenance. Serum IL-23, IL-6 and LBP were measured by commercial ELISA (BT Lab, Shanghai); CRP and albumin were quantified on an SMT-120 automated analyzer (Seamaty). Participants were stratified by MUST risk (low/medium/high) and HBI category (remission/mild/moderate). Non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests were used; Spearman correlations linked biomarkers to continuous clinical indices.
Results: Serum LBP, IL-23 and IL-6 concentrations rose monotonically across MUST categories (all P ≤ 0.004) and HBI activity categories (all P ≤ 0.013), with the steepest gradient for LBP (low-risk 7.72 vs high-risk 11.43 ng/mL; P < 0.001). LBP correlated positively with MUST score (ρ = 0.50), HBI (ρ = 0.37) and CRP (ρ = 0.47), and negatively with BMI (ρ = −0.47; all P < 0.001). CRP and albumin showed no significant within-CD correlations. In infliximab-treated patients with mucosal healing, LBP, IL-23, IL-6 and CRP were directionally lower than in non-healers, but differences did not reach statistical significance (P ≥ 0.073) in this underpowered subgroup.
Conclusion: Serum IL-23, IL-6 and LBP are quantitative indicators of both nutritional and inflammatory burden in Crohn’s disease, outperforming CRP and albumin for stratifying clinical severity within CD patients. These accessible serum biomarkers merit prospective evaluation as stratification tools in Middle-Eastern IBD cohorts.

Background: Distinguishing acute infection from aseptic disease flare in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains a significant clinical challenge due to the overlapping symptomatology and the low specificity of conventional inflammatory markers.
Methodology: This case-control study included 90 participants: 30 healthy controls, 30 RA patients without infection, and 30 RA patients with confirmed concurrent infection. Serum levels of Serum Amyloid A (SAA), soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor alpha (sIL-2Rα), and anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (anti-CCP) were quantified via ELISA. Diagnostic performance was evaluated using ROC curve and multivariate logistic regression analyses.
Results: SAA and sIL-2Rα levels were significantly elevated in infected RA patients compared to uninfected RA patients (p = 0.001 and p = 0.041, respectively). Anti-CCP levels did not differ between the two RA groups (p = 0.869). A combined diagnostic model incorporating SAA and sIL-2Rα achieved the highest discriminatory capacity for infection (AUC = 0.842, Sensitivity = 83.3%, Specificity = 80.0%). Multivariate analysis confirmed SAA as a robust independent predictor of infection (OR = 1.025, p = 0.034), even after adjusting for white blood cell count and morning stiffness.
Conclusion: SAA, particularly when combined with sIL-2Rα, serves as a superior diagnostic biomarker for accurately identifying concurrent acute infections in RA patients, facilitating timely and appropriate therapeutic interventions.

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Background: Differentiating non-classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCCAH) from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) remains clinically challenging because both disorders may present with hyperandrogenic symptoms, menstrual dysfunction, and partially overlapping endocrine abnormalities. This study evaluated whether an integrated adrenal–metabolic biomarker framework could improve distinction between the two conditions in women presenting with hyperandrogenic features.
Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional comparative study was conducted at Al-Zahraa Teaching Hospital, Al-Hakeem Hospital, and Al-Sajad Hospital in Najaf Al-Ashraf, Iraq, between May 2025 and February 2026. The analyzed cohort included 24 women with NCCAH and 48 women with PCOS. Participants underwent structured clinical assessment, endocrine profiling, ACTH stimulation testing where indicated, and fasting metabolic evaluation. Group comparisons were performed using appropriate parametric or non-parametric tests, and biomarker discrimination was explored using receiver operating characteristic analysis and conservative internally assessed overlap-only multivariable models.
Results: The strongest between-group differences were observed in the adrenal steroid domain. Women with NCCAH had markedly higher basal and ACTH-stimulated 17-hydroxyprogesterone and 21-deoxycortisol, whereas women with PCOS had higher body mass index, waist circumference, cycle length, AMH, LH/FSH ratio, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, and triglycerides, together with lower SHBG and HDL-cholesterol. Among biomarkers retaining residual overlap, HOMA-IR showed the highest apparent single-marker discrimination (AUC 0.961), while the strongest exploratory overlap-only model combining SHBG, HOMA-IR, and AMH achieved a repeated 5-fold cross-validated AUC of 0.988.
Conclusion: An adrenal-centered biomarker panel, interpreted together with metabolic and ovarian-context variables, provided a clinically coherent framework for differentiating NCCAH from PCOS in women with hyperandrogenic features. Adrenal steroid intermediates remained the most informative etiologic markers, whereas metabolic and ovarian markers supplied supportive contextual discrimination.

Background: Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) are
metallic nanoparticles recognized for their diverse applications, including high conductivity, catalytic activity, and antimicrobial properties. However, their potential cytotoxicity and the specific mechanisms by which exposure affects male testicular function remain largely unknown. This study aims to evaluate the impact of CuO NPs on reproductive health, specifically focusing on hormonal levels and sperm quality.
Patients and Methods: In this investigation, 12 adult male white mice were administered a single dose of 20 mg/kg of copper oxide nanoparticles both orally and dermally. After a 24-week period, biological samples were collected, including blood via heart puncture, semen from the cauda epididymis, and testicular tissue. The assessment included serum testosterone levels, sperm density, viability, motility, and a detailed histological evaluation of the testicular structure.
Results: The results demonstrated that copper oxide nanoparticles significantly reduced serum testosterone levels and inhibited sperm density, viability, and motility. Furthermore, histological analysis of the testicular tissues revealed clear degeneration in germ cells, Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and spermatogonia. These findings indicate a profound disruption of the physiological and structural integrity of the male reproductive system following exposure
Conclusion: In conclusion, the aforementioned results offer evidence that copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) exert a negative and irreversible effect on testicular function and the physiological characteristics of sperm. These harmful effects were notably prominent following the administration of high doses, highlighting the need for further investigation into the environmental and occupational risks posed by these nanoparticles to male fertility

Background: Cadmium is a widely distributed environmental pollutant with well-documented testicular toxicity. Lupinus albus seed extract is rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids and tocopherols, and has been suggested to support male reproductive function, but its protective role against cadmium-induced testicular injury remains incompletely characterised. The aim was to evaluate whether oral co-administration of Lupinus albus seed extract attenuates cadmium chloride-induced reproductive toxicity in male albino rats.
Methods: Thirty-two adult male albino rats were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 8): control (normal saline), cadmium chloride (5 mg/kg, p.o.), lupine extract (15 mg/kg, p.o.), and cadmium + lupine, treated daily for 45 days. Body and reproductive organ weights, sperm parameters (count, motility, viability, morphology), serum testosterone, LH and FSH (ELISA), testicular oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH), and Johnsen testicular score were assessed.
Results: Cadmium significantly reduced testis weight, sperm count, motility, viability, testosterone, LH, FSH, and antioxidant enzymes, and significantly increased sperm abnormalities and MDA (all p < 0.001). Johnsen score fell from 9.05 ± 0.37 to 3.74 ± 0.70. Co-treatment with lupine extract significantly attenuated all of these changes, with partial recovery in most parameters (percentage protection 34.5–76.3%). Strong negative correlations between MDA and sperm count (r = −0.92) and Johnsen score (r = −0.89) supported an oxidative stress-mediated mechanism.
Conclusion: Lupine extract partially mitigates cadmium-induced testicular damage in rats, plausibly via antioxidant mechanisms. Further dose–response and translational studies are warranted.

Background: The insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) plays a vital role in the intracellular signaling of insulin upon insulin binding to its receptor. Glibenclamide is a commonly prescribed drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This research aims to investigate the influence of IRS1 rs1801278 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), on the interindividual variations in metabolic and glycemic parameters among Iraqi patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with glibenclamide.
Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted from September 2024 to September 2025, enrolled 160 Iraqi patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus and they were taking glibenclamide as a monotherapy for at least three months. Some biochemical parameters, including glycemic indices, lipid profile, and liver and kidney functions, were assessed. Genotyping of the IRS1 rs1801278 (C/G) SNP was done using allele-specific polymerase chain reaction technique.
Results: The frequencies of IRS1 rs1801278 genotypes were 75% for CC, 16.25% for CG, and 8.75% for GG. Patients with the GG genotype exhibited higher levels of fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and insulin resistance, and a significantly altered lipid profile.
Conclusions: The IRS1 rs1801278 SNP is significantly associated with poor glycemic control and altered lipid profile. These results suggest that genetic variation in IRS1 could be associated with differences in metabolic and glycemic profiles in individuals with type 2 diabetes and underscore the clinical relevance of the IRS1 rs1801278 SNP in the Iraqi population.

Background: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed type of tumor in women worldwide. The Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has been detected as an onco-modulatory agent in mammary cells cancer progression, and the Interleukin1β is associated with altered inflammatory signaling and cancer susceptibility.
Methodology: It was a hospital-based case-control study that recorded 120 Iraqi women: 60 with breast cancer, 30 with fibroadenoma, and 30 healthy controls. HCMV IgG levels were quantified using the VIDAS® immunoassay. Serum IL-1β and IL-6 levels were measured by sandwich ELISA.
Results: HCMV IgG seropositivity was significantly elevated in breast cancer patients (81.7%) than in those with fibroadenoma (63.3%) and controls (60.0%) (p = 0.04). Serum IL-6 levels were elevated in breast cancer (486.6 ± 228 pg/mL) and those with fibroadenoma (467 ± 225 pg/mL) compared to controls (184.5 ± 58.3 pg/mL; p < 0.0001). IL-1β levels were paradoxically lower in breast cancer patients (891 ± 178.4 pg/mL; p < 0.0001).
Conclusion: seropositivity of HCMV is independently associated with breast cancer in an Iraqi female, indicating that the close relationship of viral infection and pro-inflammatory genetic predisposition may potentiate carcinogenic risk.

Background: One of the main factors controlling metabolic homeostasis is thyroid dysfunction. Changes in energy expenditure and lipid metabolism, two important aspects of metabolic syndrome, are often linked to hypothyroidism.
Methodology: Twenty controls and sixty patients with primary hypothyroidism made up the 80 participants in total. Thyroid hormones (TSH, T3, and T4) and metabolic parameters (FBS, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, and VLDL) were assessed. To compare the groups and assess the importance of the metabolic alterations, statistical analysis was done.
Results: The results demonstrated a highly significant increase in BMI and TSH levels among patients compared to controls (p < 0.01). Regarding the lipid profile, a profound and significant elevation was observed in Triglycerides (TGs) and VLDL levels (p < 0.0001). However, Total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) showed non-significant (NS) differences between the two groups (p > 0.05)
Conclusion: These findings highlight that primary hypothyroidism leads to a "lipid-dominant" metabolic disturbance characterized by isolated hypertriglyceridemia and increased BMI. The stability of glycemic markers (FBS) suggests that lipid alterations precede glucose impairment in the early stages of thyroid dysfunction. Routine assessment of TGs is recommended for early identification of metabolic risk in hypothyroid patients.

Background: To assess the clinical chemistry biomarkers linked to asthma severity and ascertain their potential utility in forecasting bronchial asthma patients' illness severity.
Materials and Methods: One hundred people with asthma diagnoses from doctors participated in a cross-sectional study. Standard clinical chemistry laboratory techniques were used to determine total IgE, C-reactive protein (CRP), and eosinophil count from blood samples. Additionally evaluated were pulmonary function tests, such as FEV1 and the FEV1/FVC ratio. Laboratory results were statistically compared after patients were divided into groups with mild, moderate, and severe asthma.
Results: The most common severity category was moderate asthma (47%), which was followed by mild asthma (36%) and severe asthma (17%). As asthma severity increased, laboratory analysis showed gradually higher mean serum total IgE and CRP values. As the severity of the disease worsened, FEV1 and the FEV1/FVC ratio decreased, indicating deteriorating pulmonary function. Severe asthma patients had an increasing trend in eosinophil levels, but there was no statistically significant difference between the severity categories.
Conclusions: Pulmonary function measures and clinical chemistry biomarkers, especially blood total IgE and CRP, are useful markers of the severity of asthma. Their combined evaluation could enhance the assessment of inflammatory activity, make it easier to classify diseases, and help asthma patients receive better clinical care.

Background: Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) has been identified as one of the first hormonal changes occurring in early stages of kidney disease as well as chronic kidney disease (CKD) and could be promising biomarker in the early stages of kidney diseases
Methodology: This case-control study enrolled 80 patients with early renal dysfunction and 20 healthy controls and measured the levels of FGF23 in relation to serum urea, creatinine and phosphate (PO₄), estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) from the period of November 2025 to March 2026.
Results: The patients showed a significant increase in serum urea, creatinine, phosphate, and FGF23 and a significant decrease in GFR (all p ≤ 0.03). Compared to the controls (49.77 ± 2.24 vs. 38.77 ± 4.19 pg/mL, p = 0.03) and at a stage of only moderate phosphate elevation, circulating FGF23 was significantly higher in patients. ROC analysis pinpointed a diagnostic threshold of 46.76 pg/mL (AUC = 0.66, p = 0.009). Given the absence of significant correlations with individual biochemical metrics and the analysis of FGF23 positioned as a hormonal sentinel of renal tubular phosphate stress, FGF23 is more likely an early-phase player and not a linear biochemical replacement.
Conclusion: In conclusion this study position FGF23 as an early hormonal marker of renal tubular phosphate stress and provides a clinically useful hormonal cutoff to advocate for the use of FGF23 in conjunction with the standard biochemical markers for early identification of renal impairment.

Background: This study investigates the relationship between the rs2291075 genotype and the incidence of hot flashes and arthralgia in Iraqi women receiving tamoxifen therapy for breast cancer. Additionally, the roles of tamoxifen duration and receptor status in symptom development were explored. The study aimed to investigate the distribution of rs2291075 in Iraqi breast cancer women, and evaluate the Association between the rs2291075 mutation in the SLCO1B1 gene and the incidence of arthralgia and hot flashes in Iraqi women with breast cancer.
Materials and Methods: A total of 150 Iraqi breast cancer patients undergoing tamoxifen treatment were included. Genotyping for rs2291075 was conducted using standard molecular techniques. Symptom incidence was assessed through structured interviews. Patients were stratified by genotype (CC, CT, TT), duration of tamoxifen use (1–14 years), and receptor status (ER, PR, HER2). Incidence rates of hot flashes and arthralgia were calculated, and comparisons were made using descriptive statistics.
Results: Hot flashes and arthralgia were more incidence in patients with the CC genotype (87.3% and 96.4%, respectively) than in those with the TT (83.3%, 88.9%) or CT genotypes (84.4%, 93.5%). Symptom incidence increased with tamoxifen duration, peaking in the 7–9-year group. Patients with ER+/PR+ status had the highest incidence of both symptoms (90.0% for hot flashes; 96.0% for arthralgia), while those with unknown receptor status showed the lowest. Triple-negative patients also exhibited high symptom burden.
Conclusion: The rs2291075 CC genotype (homozygous wild type), longer tamoxifen use, and ER+/PR+ receptor status was associated with a greater incidence of hot flashes and arthralgia. These findings suggest a potential genetic and hormonal basis for symptom variability, underscoring the importance of personalized symptom management during tamoxifen therapy.

Background: The routine use of postoperative drains in lumbar spine surgery remains controversial. Although drains are traditionally employed to prevent hematoma and wound complications, recent evidence questions their necessity, citing longer hospital stays and higher rates of non-infectious complications. Data from developing regions are scarce, limiting the generalizability of current evidence. The study aimed to evaluate whether the use of postoperative closed-suction drains in lumbar spine surgery reduces postoperative complications, including surgical site infection and hematoma formation, compared with surgeries performed without drains.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 60 adult patients undergoing elective lumbar spine surgery. Demographic, intraoperative, and postoperative data were extracted from institutional records. Patients were divided into two groups: drain and no-drain. Outcomes analyzed included postoperative complications, urinary retention, weakness, surgical site infection, hematoma, and length of hospital stay. Data were analyzed using R version 4.3.1, applying descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression where appropriate.
Results: Twenty patients (33.3%) underwent drain placement, while forty (66.7%) did not. Baseline demographics and operative duration were comparable between groups. The drain group showed significantly higher rates of urinary retention (p = 0.001) and postoperative weakness (p = 0.008). Length of hospital stay was also longer in the drain group (p = 0.004). No significant differences were observed in surgical site infection, wound drainage, or 30-day readmission rates.
Conclusion: Postoperative drain use did not reduce infection or hematoma rates but was associated with higher urinary retention, postoperative weakness, and prolonged hospitalization. Routine drainage after lumbar spine surgery may not be necessary and may contribute to avoidable morbidity. Selective drain placement, guided by intraoperative bleeding and soft-tissue dissection extent, is recommended to optimize recovery and resource use.

Hospital acquired infections or nosocomial infections are the major cause of morbidity and mortality around the world. These are major public health problems worldwide, but particularly in the developing countries. The amies of this study was to analyses the frequency of the microorganisms taken from the surgical wounds and to examine the susceptibility of antimicrobial agents for some isolates and to study the relation between some of immunological parameters of the patient and wound infection. Wound swab was examined by different conventional method using MacConkey and blood agar, antimicrobial susceptibility was done using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Minividas used to demonstrate the concentrations of IgM through different period of the infection for the study the relation between the immunological factors and wound infections. A total of 146 wound samples were collected from patients and examined. The study showed male 89(60.96) and female 57(39.04), wound infection was highest among the age group (40-49) years followed by the age (30-39) years. The lowest wound infection was in the age of (0-9) years. The study also showed the highest incidence of the infection was in Staphylococcus aureus constitute (38.16%) from the infections followed by pseudomonas aeruginosa (25%), while the lowest incidence of the infection was in klebsiella (6.58 %). The study also showed between the kind of surgery the rate was higher in plastic surgery (8.90%) followed by gynecology surgery (7.53%), the lowest incidence of infection rate was seen after urinary tract surgery (2.05%). The study showed resistant to almost of the antibiotics, levofloxacin was the 100 % resistant to almost all the microbial isolates. The immunological changes in the samples also observed in this study, the majority of the sample showed clinically significant at the 10 day of the infection, while preoperative there was no any significantly different in the level of IgA.

Background: Osteoporosis is a chronic systemic skeletal disorder marked by a reduction in bone mineral density and structural deterioration of bone tissue, resulting in a substantially increased risk of fragility fractures.
Objective: To assess the accuracy and reliability of the FRAX tool in predicting the 10-year risk of osteoporosis-related fractures, and to determine its potential utility in guiding clinical decisions for fracture prevention and patient management.
Method: This case-control study included 100 adult women aged between 40 ≥ 60 years. Participants were grouped by menopausal status (pre- and postmenopausal) and type 2 diabetes status, as well as a healthy control group, resulting in five distinct groups. Measured variables included fasting blood glucose, fasting blood insulin, and HOMA-IR. Bone mineral density (BMD) was assessed for all participants using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Additionally, the FRAX tool was employed to estimate the 10-year probability of major osteoporotic and hip fractures.
Results: Significant differences were observed among study groups in age, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, BMD, and FRAX scores (p < 0.05). Diabetic and postmenopausal groups showed higher risks of major osteoporotic and hip fractures. Reduced BMD was significantly associated with higher HbA1c levels and increased insulin resistance. ROC analysis showed that fasting blood glucose (AUC = 0.941) and HOMA-IR (AUC = 0.879) had the highest diagnostic performance.
Conclusion: FRAX is significantly associated with clinical and metabolic risk factors; however, its predictive accuracy may be influenced by metabolic disturbances, especially in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Insulin resistance and poor glycemic control are strongly associated with reduced bone mineral density, underscoring the importance of including metabolic parameters in fracture risk assessment.

Background: -Hashimoto disease, a type of autoimmune thyroid illness, it is featured by chronic lymphocytic inflammation of the thyroid, symptoms include an increase of in thyroid stimulating hormone with low level of free thyroxine and long term of hypothyroidism due to autoantibodies targeting thyroglobulin and thyroid peroxidase. Interleukin 2 is a chemical signal protein used by immune system, this protein plays a significant role in immunological tolerance and have particular application in cancer therapy and primarily instruct immune cells how to grow and behave.
Patients and methods: This case-control investigation consisted of 60 women with Hashimoto disease as case group and 60 healthy individuals as control group. IL-2 measure by using ELISA technic method and anti TPO and thyroid function test (TSH, FT4) measured by ECLIA technic. from serum blood samples.
Results: final results observe that measurement of IL -2 in the patient group was massively higher than controls (p= 0.0001)., and anti-thyroid antibodies (anti TPO) in the Case group was massively higher than controls also elevation of TSH case group more than the control group and clear decrease in FT4 in patient group in comparison to controls, BMI, Age and sex non-significant to link with Hashimoto disease
Conclusion: over all, our results observe that the BMI, sex, Age no clear role on this disease but on the other hand IL- 2 level and anti-thyroid antibodies have an important role in Hashimoto disease.

Background: Clopidogrel is an oral antiplatelet prodrug used in coronary heart disease. Measurement of plasma parent clopidogrel provides an analytical marker of pharmacokinetic exposure, but it should not be interpreted as active metabolite concentration or direct platelet inhibition. This study applied an adapted RP-HPLC-DAD method to quantify plasma parent clopidogrel in Iraqi patients with chronic coronary syndrome.
Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical-clinical study included 97 patients receiving clopidogrel therapy. Plasma parent clopidogrel was determined using isocratic RP-HPLC-DAD with 0.02 M potassium dihydrogen phosphate buffer pH 2.8: methanol (30:70, v/v), flow rate 1.5 mL/min, injection volume 100 µL, and detection at 220 nm. Calibration, system-suitability injections, and representative chromatograms supported the analytical application.
Results: The calibration curve was linear over the available range with equation Y = 93.98788X and correlation factor r = 0.9999534. Repeated 5 ppm standard injections showed stable retention time (4.564 ± 0.022 min; %RSD 0.491) and peak area (475.26 ± 3.30 mAU.s; %RSD 0.695). Mean plasma parent clopidogrel concentration was 7.72 ± 1.09 ng/mL, median 7.59 ng/mL (5.40-10.71). Age, duration of therapy, and urea were inversely correlated with concentration. Diabetic patients had lower concentrations than non-diabetic patients (7.41 ± 1.04 vs 7.96 ± 1.08 ng/mL, P = 0.012), and diabetes remained significant after adjustment for age and urea.
Conclusion: The adapted RP-HPLC-DAD method was feasible for estimating plasma parent clopidogrel exposure in this cohort. The endpoint represents parent-drug exposure, not active metabolite concentration or direct platelet P2Y12 inhibition.

Background: Ferritin and vitamin D are important biochemical markers that reflect iron status and metabolic health, respectively. Their levels may be influenced by demographic and clinical factors such as age, gender, and disease duration. Understanding these relationships is essential for improving disease assessment and management. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the demographic and clinical characteristics of the study population and to investigate the relationship between gender, age, disease duration, and serum levels of ferritin and vitamins.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 48 participants. Demographic and clinical data, including age, gender, disease duration, and family history, were collected. Serum ferritin and vitamin D (D3) levels were measured and analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate tests, including descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. A p-value of<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The study population consisted predominantly of females (60.4%), with the majority of participants aged between 8 and 30 years (91.7%). The majority of patients had a disease duration of 8–30 years (93.8%) and a positive family history (87.5%). Ferritin levels were higher in males (3000 ± 2267) compared to females (2043 ± 2409), while vitamin D levels were higher in females (21.60 ± 25.72) than males (13.80 ± 14.70). However, these differences were not statistically significant (p > XIII 0.05). A strong positive correlation was observed between age and disease duration (r = 0.923, p = 0.001). No significant correlations were found between age and ferritin or vitamin D levels.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that gender is not significantly associated with variations in ferritin and vitamin D levels. Age was significantly correlated only with disease duration, while no meaningful relationships were observed with biochemical parameters. These results suggest that factors other than age and gender may play a more critical role in influencing ferritin and vitamin D levels. Further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended.

Background: Prostatic adenocarcinoma incidence is rising in Iraq as the fourth most often confirmed malignancy in men. A medically undetectable neoplasm that is unintentionally discovered during operation for nodular prostatic abnormalities is known as incidental prostate cancer (IPC). Objectives: This study's primary goal is to assess the prevalence of prostatic cancer that is unintentionally discovered in patients who have symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia underwent transurethral resection of prostate in Karbala province and to assess the relation of the age to other pathological parameters like IPC, Gleason grades, associated inflammation, necrosis, metaplastic changes and invasion (peri-neural and/or lympho-vascular). Material and methods: this is a retrospective cross sectional study involving data collected from 234 patients underwent transurethral resection of prostate as therapeutic management for clinical benign prostatic hyperplasia at Safeer AL-Imam AL Hussain Specialized Hospital from January 2024 to December 2025 in Karbala province. Results: the rate of IPC was (8.5%) with mean age of the patients (67.2 ± 8.6 SD) and (57%) of patients were older than 65 years. Higher percentage (60%) of IPC cases presented with high Gleason scores and grades. There was a significant relation between the age of the patients and Gleason grades of the detected malignant cases, (P value 0.03), however such a relation was not detected between the age and IPC, (P value 0.7). Conclusion: Although the overwhelming body of research supports age as an important predictor for prostate cancer worldwide, our analysis shows that this relationship might not hold true for every demographic or clinical contexts which could be attributed to variability in electing patients and diagnostic protocols promising for advanced screening programs to be adapted in the future for youth and those who are elderly in our region.