Volume & Issue: Volume 12, Issue 3, Summer 2026 
Medicine and Pharmacy

Assessment of Knowledge of Urinary Tract Infections Among Male and Female Patients in Wasit Governorate, Iraq

Pages 1-18

Rasool Jarh Saad, Wasen Farid, Abber Azize

Abstract Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are inflammations of the urinary system that can affect both men
and women, although they are more common in women, also referred to as urinary infections.
Evaluate the level of knowledge regarding UTIs among male and female patients. A descriptive
cross-sectional study conducted in two hospitals in Wasit Governorate, Iraq, by using non-random
convenient sampling was conducted. It includes 350 participants. The study reveals a demographic
composition of 66.9% female and 33.1% male participants. It was found that 76.3% of the
participants have information about a UTI, with 60.3% demonstrating an understanding of UTI
prevention. Additionally, 76.3% of participants are aware of the signs and symptoms associated
with UTIs. This study shows that half of the individuals have a fair knowledge score about UTIs.
Whereas it indicates that knowledge levels are not influenced by gender. Additionally, a history of
UTIs and SES among participants emerged as significant variables impacting the overall
knowledge score.

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Medicine and Pharmacy

Assessment of IL33 and IL37 levels in patients with multiple sclerosis

Pages 19-30

Ali Mohammed Abd-alameer

Abstract Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neuroimmune disorder characterised by a malfunction in the regulation of the immune response within the central nervous system, leading to persistent neuritis and neurological disabilities to varying degrees. This imbalance includes increased inflammatory activity and a decrease in the efficiency of immunosuppressive regulation. This study aimed to measure the serological levels of interleukin-33 (IL-33) and interleukin-37 (IL-37) in multiple sclerosis patients, and to analyse the relationship between these levels and the severity of neurological disability and disease activity. A case-control study was conducted involving 50 patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and 40 people who were healthy as a control group, all from Marjan Medical City Hospital in Babylon Governorate. Blood samples were collected at the base stage. Serum levels of interleukin-33 and interleukin-37 have been determined using ELISA. The severity of neurological disability was also assessed using the Extended Disability Case Scale (EDSS). The results showed a statistically significant increase in IL-33 levels in MS patients compared to the control group, while a significant decrease in IL-37 levels was observed. A positive correlation was also found between IL-33 levels and EDSS scores, as opposed to a reverse correlation between IL-37 levels and the severity of neurological disability. The results of the study indicate an imbalance between cytokines that stimulate and inhibit the inflammatory response in multiple sclerosis patients, as evidenced by the IL-33/IL-37 axis. This can contribute to providing indications for understanding the pathological activity and variation in the severity of neurological disability.

Medicine and Pharmacy

Hypoxia promotes cellular apoptosis in blood cells through P53 activation in patients with Diabetes

Pages 31-45

Azhar Abul Jabbar Ameen, zyad abdulkadhim mazyed, Suhyila Fadhil Ali

Abstract Hyperglycemia in diabetes promotes Hypoxia leading to alterations in the cellular microenvironment, Hypoxia triggers adaptive cellular responses, that are largely regulated via a transcription factor called Hypoxia inducible factor 1 -alpha (HIF-1α),in addition Hypoxia influences cell death pathways through the stabilization of the tumor suppressor factor p53.Aims: this study aims to assess the impact of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF-1α) in regulating p53 signaling in those with type 2 diabetes in comparison with the control group. Whole blood samples were obtained from both diabetes and non-diabetic participants, followed by quantitative PCR (qPCR) to estimate the relative transcriptional levels of (HIF-1α and p53). The results showed a significant up regulation in the expression of HIF-1α and p53inpatientsrelative to the control group, Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) revealed that the overall model for HIF-1α and P53 expression was statistically significant, while diabetes status, gender and body mass index (BMI) did not show significant in dependent effects. Additionally a notable positive correlation was observed between expression of HIF-1α and p53. The study illustrated that a potential impact of theHIF-1α signaling in inducing cellular apoptosis through the upregulating of p53, these results provide evidencethatHIF-1α and p53 may act as interconnected cellular markers and support further investigation in expanded cohorts.

Medicine and Pharmacy

Determination of Interleukin-6, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α, and Malondialdehyde in Breast Cancer Patients from Kirkuk

Pages 46-63

Safana Awef Abdel Rahman

Abstract Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignancies in women and a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, and in Iraq, it accounts for nearly one-third of female cancer cases. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to its development. The aim of this study was to compare patients to healthy controls regarding serum levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in different age groups and their possible role in diagnosis and prognosis in BC. Serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA were evaluated among 48 breast cancer patients with an age range of 25-64 years and compared with those of 47 matched healthy individuals. We collected blood samples in Kirkuk between November 2025 and February 2026. measured IL-6 and TNF-alpha using ELISA, while we determined them using the Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) method, and data were analyzed with Student’s t-test in SPSS. The results showed that IL-6 reaches 12.47 ± 3.82 pg/mL in patients compared to 4.21 ± 1.35 pg/mL in controls, and TNF-α reaches 8.93 ± 2.47 pg/mL in patients versus 3.15 ± 1.02 pg/mL in controls, with significant differences for both markers. MDA also increases to 3.85 ± 0.94 µmol/L in patients compared to 1.42 ± 0.38 µmol/L in controls, showing a highly significant difference. Regarding age groups, we found that patients within the age group (45-64 years) show the highest values for all markers, with clear statistical differences across age categories, especially for MDA. As a conclusion, these findings indicated an increased inflammation and oxidative stress in breast cancer patients, and can be used in detection, monitoring, and risk assessment, especially in older patients. As a recommendation, larger, longitudinal, and multicenter surveys are required to validate these findings, establish cutoff values, and explore therapeutic targeting of these pathways.

Medicine and Pharmacy

Early Detection of Nephropathy in Iraqi Pediatric Patients with Sickle Cell Anemia Using Novel Physiological Parameters

Pages 64-78

Salah Mohammed Fahad

Abstract This study goal to estimate the diagnostic and prognostic characteristics of nephropathy markers (Cystatin C, Neutrophil Gelatinase Associated Lipocalin (NGAL), Beta-2 Microglobulin, N-Acetyl Beta-D-Glucosaminidase (NAG), Nephrin, and Kidney Injury Molecule 1(KIM-1)) in steady state and vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) of sickle cell anemia. The study was included 70 children diagnosed with sickle cell anemia with age (3-18) years and 60 healthy children with age (3-18) years. Sickle cell anemia was divided into 35 patients with steady state and 35 with VOC. Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was used to estimate Cystatin C, Neutrophil Gelatinase Associated Lipocalin (NGAL), Beta-2 Microglobulin, N-Acetyl Beta-D-Glucosaminidase (NAG), Nephrin, and Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1) in patients and control. The results show that the levels of cystatin C, NGAL, KIM-1, NAG, β2-microglobulin, and Nephrin had been significant increase in steady state patients (1.4±0.12, 6.2±1.35, 3.79 ±0.21 , 129±5.3, 4.3±1.2, and 4.5±0.3) respectively and VOC group (2.3±0.41, 10.35 ±0.21, 5.3±0.82, 83±4.81, 7.2±1.6, and 6.8±0.8) respectively compared with control (0.78±0.03, 3.8±1.03, 1.8±0.08, 72±4.62, 3.14±0.7, and 2.12±0.24) respectively. Based on these findings, we identified the best marker for routine screening to detect renal involvement during sickle cell anemia. Cystatin C, NGAL, and KIM-1 all exhibited high diagnostic accuracy in distinguishing patients with sickle cell anemia from healthy controls.

Medicine and Pharmacy

Fracture, Retention, Migration, and Retrieval of Peripheral Intravenous Cannula Fragments: A Systematic Review of Published Case Reports and Small Case Series

Pages 79-102

Pavel Mustafa Kareem, Irfan Omer Ali, Bashir Mohammed Rasul, Muhammad Ahmad Khdr, Paiwand Jamal Hassan

Abstract This study was designed as a systematic review of published case reports and small case series. Study selection and reporting were structured in accordance with PRISMA 2020 and PRISMA-S. Findings were synthesized narratively in line with SWiM, and the full reproducible search strategies are provided in Supplementary File 1. The reproducible PubMed/MEDLINE search identified 21 records, of which 14 publications comprising 20 individual patients were included in the qualitative synthesis. The literature spanned 1992 to 2025, and 9 of the 14 publications (64.3%) were published from 2020 onward. Cases ranged from a day-old neonate to a 76-year-old adult. Events arose predominantly from upper-extremity peripheral venous access and were commonly associated with repeated cannulation attempts, reinsertion of the introducer needle into a partially advanced cannula, device manipulation, or difficult removal. Fragments were usually retained within superficial upper-limb veins, although central embolization to the pulmonary artery or heart/great vessels was documented in 2 of 20 patients (10.0%). Ultrasound and computed tomography were the most informative localization modalities when radiography was negative or inconclusive. Management was predominantly active retrieval, and favorable short-term outcomes were reported in 18 of 20 patients (90.0%). The available case-based evidence suggests that fractured PIVC fragments should be approached as time-sensitive intravascular foreign bodies. These findings support a practical strategy focused on avoiding needle reinsertion and repeated manipulation of the same cannula, together with prompt containment, imaging-based localization, and anatomy-directed retrieval, while recognizing that comparative effectiveness cannot be established from the current literature. Peripheral intravenous cannula; peripheral intravenous catheter; catheter fracture; retained intravascular foreign body; cannula embolization; venotomy; endovascular retrieval; systematic review.

Medicine and Pharmacy

Physiological Evaluation of Serum Meteorin-Like Protein and Fibroblast Growth Factor-21 as Biomarkers of Renal Dysfunction in Chronic Kidney Disease

Pages 103-117

Rehab A.A. Alhamashi

Abstract Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disorder associated with the gradual deterioration of renal function and complex metabolic disturbances. This study aimed to evaluate circulating levels of Meteorin-Like protein (METRNL) and Fibroblast Growth Factor-21 (FGF-21) and to determine their diagnostic value and association with renal function parameters in CKD patients. A total of 90 subjects were enrolled, including 60 patients with CKD and 30 healthy controls. Patients were categorized into mild-to-moderate and advanced CKD stages. Serum METRNL and FGF-21 levels were measured using ELISA, while serum creatinine, blood urea, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were also assessed. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in serum METRNL levels in CKD patients compared with controls, with values of 245.7 ± 71.3 pg/mL and 182.6 ± 64.9 pg/mL in CKD groups versus 312.4 ± 85.6 pg/mL in controls. In contrast, serum FGF-21 levels were significantly elevated in CKD patients, reaching 214.9 ± 62.8 pg/mL and 356.2 ± 95.4 pg/mL compared with 108.5 ± 36.7 pg/mL in controls. FGF-21 showed a positive correlation with serum creatinine (r = 0.56) and blood urea (r = 0.49), and a negative correlation with eGFR (r = −0.58). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated good diagnostic performance for both biomarkers, with FGF-21 exhibiting superior discriminative ability (AUC = 0.88). These findings indicate that METRNL decreases, whereas FGF-21 increases with CKD progression, and both biomarkers are significantly associated with renal dysfunction parameters. The combined assessment of METRNL and FGF-21 may provide a promising biomarker panel for the diagnosis and evaluation of renal dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Life Sciences

Strategic engineering and its role in promoting organizational happiness in the workplace Applied study at Warith Al-Anbiya University

Pages 118-136

MOHAMMED HUSSEIN ALALI

Abstract This study aimed to analyze the role of strategic engineering in enhancing organizational happiness in the workplace through an applied study at Warith Al-Anbiya University. This study sought to explore the relationship between the dimensions of strategic management (stability, security, and financial well-being) and the level of organizational happiness among university employees. The study population consisted of university staff, and a stratified random sampling method was used to select a sample of 160 individuals. Among them, 155 questionnaires were returned and considered valid for analysis, representing a response rate of 96.9%, which is considered appropriate for conducting advanced statistical analyses. The study used a descriptive-analytical methodology and employed the structural equation modeling using partial least squares (PLS-SEM) to analyze the relationships between the study variables and test its hypotheses. The results showed a high positive impact of strategic engineering on organizational happiness, with varying degrees of impact across different dimensions. The financial dimension ranked first, followed by stability in second place, and security in third place, reflecting the importance of integrated strategic resource management in enhancing employees' well-being and happiness. The results highlight the practical importance of strategic engineering in supporting decision-makers at the University of the Descendants of the Prophets by guiding organizational policies towards improving the work environment, enhancing job interaction among employees, and increasing levels of organizational happiness. This, in turn, positively affects institutional performance and promotes a more sustainable work environment.

Life Sciences

A study on Hard Ticks' Diversity and Seasonal Dynamics on Domestic Animals in Thi- Qar Provinces

Pages 137-144

Widyan Gataa Washel

Abstract To determine and classify the seasonal distributions of the major hard tick species (Ixodidae) on cattle , dogs, and buffaloes ,samples were collected from districts and sub-districts across Thi-Qar Province (southern Iraq), and an observatory was conducted between January and December 2024. A total domestic animals (cattle, buffaloes, and dogs) 3.812were examined , from which 11333 mature hard ticks were recovered. To ascertain the seasonal diversity. Two species from two genera (Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus) were found; Hyalomma anatolicum (62.76%) and Rhipicephalus turanicus (37.24%) were the most prevalent ticks. Although variations in tick abundance were observed among the surveyed localities, Chi-square analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in infestation rates between locations (P > 0.05). The findings provide updated baseline data on the distribution of hard ticks infesting domestic animals in Thi-Qar Province.

Medicine and Pharmacy

TNF-α –308G>A (rs1800629) Polymorphism and Thromboembolic Risk in Iraqi Patients with Warfarin-Treated Hematological Disorders: A Case-Control Study

Pages 145-161

Esraa Sameer Al-fatlawey

Abstract Tumor necrosis factor‑alpha (TNF‑α) is a complex pro‑inflammatory cytokine with notable pro‑coagulant characteristics. The TNF‑α promoter polymorphism (rs1800629) is a functional gain‑of‑function mutation associated with increased cytokine production and altered immunological responses. The impact of thromboembolic risk in warfarin‑treated hematological patients in Iraq is still unclear. This prospective case‑control study included 320 Iraqi patients undergoing chronic warfarin therapy for hematological diseases and 280 healthy controls. Genotyping of TNF‑α –308G>A was conducted by ARMS‑PCR. Clinical outcomes, including thromboembolic events, bleeding incidents, and time in therapeutic range (TTR), were prospectively documented. Logistic and multiple linear regression were utilized for adjusted analysis. The frequency of the A allele was markedly higher in patients (21.7%) compared to controls (14.1%; OR = 1.68; 95% CI: 1.23–2.29; p = 0.001). Individuals with the A allele (GA + AA genotypes) demonstrated a 2.18‑fold increased risk of thromboembolic problems relative to GG homozygotes (adjusted OR = 2.18; 95% CI: 1.43–3.32; p = 0.001). TNF‑α –308A carriers had a lower mean TTR (56.8 ± 14.9% vs. 64.3 ± 16.1% in GG carriers; p = 0.008). The TNF‑α genotype independently contributed partial R² = 0.031 to a six‑locus pharmacogenetic‑cytokine model for warfarin dosage (overall R² = 0.613). The TNF‑α–308A allele serves as an independent risk factor for thromboembolic events in Iraqi patients with warfarin‑treated hematological disorders. Genotyping of TNF‑α may pinpoint high‑risk patients requiring enhanced vigilance and regular INR monitoring. These findings support integrating cytokine gene profiling with pharmacogenetic testing in tailored anticoagulation approaches in the Middle East.

Life Sciences

Application of Nanotechnology to Enhance Microbial Safety and Sensory Quality of Chilled Meat Products

Pages 162-175

Dalal Khaled Rahi

Abstract This research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of nanotechnology in improving the microbial integrity and sensory qualities (taste, smell, texture, and appearance) of refrigerated meat products, while examining their impact on shelf life and food safety. Nano-coated biomaterials were prepared using high-energy ultrasound, and their encapsulation efficiency, particle size, and zeta potential were evaluated. Steak samples were then prepared and divided into four treatment groups: a control group, a group treated with the free active compound (without nano-encapsulation), and two groups treated with nano-encapsulated materials at low and high concentrations. All samples were stored at 4°C for three weeks. The free-form treatment represented direct application of the active ingredient without nano-packaging, whereas the nano-treated groups received the active compound within a nanocoating system designed to enhance stability and controlled release on the product surface. The parameters studied included total viable bacterial count, lactic acid bacteria, coliform bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, pH, reactants with thiobarbituric acid, water retention capacity, color fastness, and sensory evaluation of appearance, odor, texture, flavor, and overall acceptability. The study results showed inhibition of microbial growth (P < 0.05) in the nano- coated groups compared to the control and free groups. Furthermore, the plant extracts exhibited better sensory acceptance and the bitterness was eliminated using nanotechnology. A balanced improvement in microbial safety, sensory quality, and chemical and physical stability was observed in the high-dose group. In conclusion, meat products can be preserved in a clean manner using plant-based bioactive materials coated with nanotechnology

Chemistry

A Cross-Sectional Study of Indoor and Outdoor Air Pollution Exposure in Al-Diwaniyah Governorate, Iraq

Pages 176-191

Ali Saheb Saleh, Alaa Kadhim Jasim, Alaa Shakir Hantoosh

Abstract Air pollution constitutes a prominent cause of global health complications. As outdoor pollutants continually infiltrate indoor environments, it is imperative to investigate this relationship to identify and mitigate risks associated with human exposure. Find the relationship between exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution in the governorate of Al-Diwaniyah, Iraq. A descriptive cross-sectional study with 400 participants (aged 18-65 years) was carried out in six healthcare facilities in the Al-Diwaniyah Governorate. It performed from 15 September 2025 until the end of January 2026. It employs non-random convenient sampling by using a structured questionnaire. Most participants were female (50.7%), widowed (26.5%), lived in urban areas (66.8%), and had a primary school certificate (21.5%). The indoor pollution score was 56.0% as smoking inside, using gas/kerosene stoves, and electric generators, while the outdoor pollution score was 51.5%, such as busy main roads, open burning, and agricultural land. This score was associated with some socio-demographic characteristics, including marital status, education level, income level, and socioeconomic status (SES) (P-value <0.05). The study found a mutual influence between indoor and outdoor pollution exposure, with continuous infiltration of outdoor pollutants into indoor environments.

Life Sciences

Anemia and Thrombocytopenia Among Pregnant Women in Nasiriyah city – Iraq

Pages 192-199

Hiba Shaker Hussein

Abstract Thrombocytopenia (TP) in general with anemia are common hematological (Hb) disorders that negatively affect the mother's and the fetus's health. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of thrombocytopenia and hemoglobin deficiency among pregnant women in Nasiriyah, Iraq, and assess the correlation between hemoglobin levels and specific reproductive factors.150 pregnant women (ages 20–35) were randomly selected for a descriptive cross-sectional study. attending Bint Al-Huda Hospital in the city of Nasiriyah- Iraq. Data were collected by reviewing medical records and laboratory tests (Hb level- platelet count- iron level). The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS V.26. The results showed show the mean gestational age was 7.05 ± 1.514 months while The average age of mothers was 26.66 ± 4.661 years. The hematological findings demonstrated mild reductions in hemoglobin and PCV values which may reflect physiological (Hb) adaptations during pregnancy . illustrates the correlation between (Hb) levels and various hematological parameters. The results showed a somewhat favorable relationship between hemoglobin with age (r = 0.067) but this correlation was not statistically significant (P = 0.419). The study concluded that anemia remains a common health problem among pregnant women, calling for enhanced prenatal care health education and therapeutic nutrition programs to reduce its prevalence and complications.

Life Sciences

Genetic Variations in the CNTNAP2 Gene and Their Association with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Pages 200-213

Hakima Tuma

Abstract Autism spectrum ailment (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disease with a strong genetic element, in which non-coding and regulatory versions play an essential position. This take a look at investigated the spectrum and useful relevance of CNTNAP2 variations in 10 ASD sufferers in comparison with 10 age-matched wholesome controls. Targeted sequencing of genomic DNA diagnosed a complete of 75 editions in ASD sufferers and 39 variations in controls, with a median of 7.5 versions in step with ASD character versus 3.9 in step with manage. Variants have been categorized primarily based on genomic area, anticipated useful effect, and Zygosity. Among those, 18 variations have been shared between each corporations, predominantly intronic (n = 9) or 3′ untranslated area (3′UTR; n = 8), and have been largely heterozygous in patients but homozygous in controls. Eleven variants had been particular to ASD patients, consisting of six intronic variations (rs2710102, rs2373284, rs13241417, rs700308, rs2074714, rs77706740), 3 splice-vicinity variations (rs10240482, rs72268642, rs60451214), and two synonymous editions (rs10240503: Ser760Ser, rs9648691: Ala1241Ala). Notably, splice-area and homozygous intronic editions have been exclusively discovered in ASD sufferers, suggesting potential disruption of RNA splicing and transcriptional regulation.Variant-stage affiliation analysis confirmed that character variants did now not attain statistical importance (OR ≈ 3.Five, 95% CI: 0.12–one hundred and one, P = zero.30). In evaluation, burden-level analysis revealed a huge enrichment of functional variants in ASD patients (n = five vs. Zero; OR = 9.2, P = zero.04) and ASD-specific editions (n = 11 vs. 0; OR = 15.0, P = zero.02), indicating a cumulative contribution of uncommon and potentially purposeful variations to ASD susceptibility. These findings spotlight the importance of regulatory, synonym

Life Sciences

Obesity, C-Reactive Protein, and Calprotectin in Adalimumab-Treated Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: Association with Clinical Response: A cross-sectional comparative study

Pages 214-225

Ghasaq Kareem Abed, Asma Abdul Jaleel Swadi, Zahraa Hussam ALzubaidi

Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-lasting inflammatory illness considered via synovial inflammation as well as joint destruction. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 are key mediators. Adalimumab is operative; a percentage of patients show inadequate response. C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate are generally run down inflammatory markers, but limited ability to predict treatment response. Calprotectin has been projected as a biomarker of illness activity. To assess serum CRP and calprotectin ranks in RA patients cured with adalimumab and to evaluate their connotation with BMI and medical response. A cross-sectional comparative study included 130 participants: 75 RA patients receiving adalimumab and 55 controls. Patients included 25 males and 50 females; mean age 47.57 ±10.68 (responders n = 35) and 46.40 ±8.76 (non-responders n = 40), categorized rendering to European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology principles, using Disease Activity Score28 with Erythrocyte sedimentation rate. CRP and calprotectin were restrained using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. RA patients showed higher CRP and calprotectin ranks paralleled to controls (p < 0.001). Calprotectin did not diverge among responders and non-responders, while CRP was higher in non-responders (p < 0.001). BMI was positively associated with calprotectin (r = 0.746) and CRP (r = 0.655) (p < 0.001). CRP and calprotectin are elevated in RA patients treated with adalimumab; Only CRP is associated with treatment response. Calprotectin reflects inflammatory burden, while obesity is related with augmented inflammatory indicators and may negatively influence outcomes.

Life Sciences

The impact of breastfeeding on strengthening the infant’s immune system and preventing infectious diseases

Pages 226-239

Hoyam S. Al-Ghanyem, Iqbal A. Al-Rufaei

Abstract Human milk is a highly complex biological fluid composed of numerous components that perform diverse and essential roles in infant development. Scientific research continues to reveal new functions and mechanisms associated with its bioactive elements. The immune system of a breastfed infant can be significantly influenced by human milk, as it contains immunological factors that actively interact with the infant’s developing immune responses. In addition to enhancing vaccine effectiveness and supporting immune maturation, breastfeeding may sometimes contribute to the modulation or suppression of certain immune reactions, including transplant rejection and the risk of developing specific autoimmune disorders such as type 1-diabetes. Breastfeeding appears to provide the newborn with optimal nutrition, reducing the risk of vitamin A deficiency and supporting an appropriate and well-regulated immune response. Moreover, the regulation of anti-inflammatory properties and the establishment of healthy gut microbiota through breastfeeding further increase the likelihood that the infant will develop a balanced and properly functioning immune system. Nevertheless, the precise roles of growth factors, cytokines, idiotypic and anti-idiotypic antibodies, along with other anti-inflammatory components present in maternal milk, in shaping the infant’s immune system still require further detailed investigation and ongoing scientific research.

Life Sciences

A review on the economic and vital importance of the Eleven-Spot Ladybug Coccinella Undecimpunctata L. and Determination of Its Seasonal and Relative Presence on Absorbent Piercing Insects

Pages 240-252

Samar muthanna shahrabani, Assel adnan Qasim, Jenan kalied khazal

Abstract The eleven-spot ladybird Coccinella undecimpunctatata L. is one of the biological control Agent used against many economically important insect pests. The research showed the following data : The ladybird C. undecimpunctata was reared in the laboratory preying upon the alive and frozen black broad bean and cotton aphids .A larva of ladybird were able to develop on these two species complete life cycle and continued to the following generation, their life cycle coincides with the life cycle of the prey, their ability, in both larval and adult stages, to prey on the hosts, and their ability to choose an alternative victim when the numbers of the first prey are small. it has been shown that they attack and feed on twelve other aphids, as well as the eggs and larvae of the slugworm and the larvae of the diamondback moth, The larva of ladybug consumes about 400 medium-sized insects during its development to the pupal stage; while as an adult, it consumes 300 insects before laying eggs. Overall, it consumes 5000 insects during its lifetime, as the appetite of the ladybirds and their high reproductive capacity makes them consume their prey quickly. The importance of ladybugs comes from their presence throughout the year, their coincidence with the presence of aphid species. and that their numbers constituted 50% of the numbers of other predators, which reduced the population density of aphids in the field to the level at which the use of chemical pesticides was dispensed with.

Chemistry

The Polymer in Energy Storage: Enabling the Transition to a Sustainable Energy Future; Review

Pages 253-265

mahir jalal, Shaymaa Abd Al Kareem, Alyaa abdulkarem, zainab A A, alia ali

Abstract Polymer chemistry is a major game-changer for energy storage technologies and has a vital role in the energy transition to sustainable systems worldwide. This review identifies the major roles for polymers related to capacity enhancement, elemental safety, and ecological enhancement of batteries, supercapacitors, and other energy storage devices. Given their structural diversity, function variability, and cost effectiveness, polymers are an avenue for exploration of new materials such as polymer electrolytes, polymer electrolytes/additives, electrode binders, and conducting (e.g., functionalized) composites, while still addressing major concerns in lithium ion batteries (LIBs), sodium ion batteries (SIBs), or supercapacitors (e.g., energy density, cycle life, elemental safety, environmental impact). This review aims to highlight various applications, such as solid polymer electrolytes to enhance safety and prevent thermal runaway in LIBs; bio-derived binders for green development of electrodes in LIBs and SIBs; and conducting (e.g., functionalized) polymer composites, which enhance the specific capacitance of supercapacitors. This review also described challenges in energy storage utilizing polymers, including scaling up, cost, and problems associated with the raw materials in polymer synthesis and the final product itself, and suggested solutions (i.e., PFAS-free and recyclable) to prevent contamination of groundwater and waterways. Ethical issues, i.e., equitable access to advanced technologies (Li, Co, etc.), were also discussed over future directions, such as AI-assisted material discovery and biodegradable polymers for energy storage. This review highlights the prospects of exploiting polymer chemistry and sustainable practices to realize effective, green energy storage systems and the future of decarbonized energy.

Life Sciences

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence Techniques on The Growth and Carcass Performance of Broiler Chickens, A Review

Pages 266-277

ahmed yasir rebh, Noora karim Al-Hmedawy, Majid Hassan. Alasadi

Abstract The efficiency and productivity in many areas such as animal science could increasingly be
improved by artificial intelligence (AI). Because generating and analyzing large amounts of data in
real time is now feasible, the use of smart technologies in modern farming systems is gaining
ground, which further strengthens AI’s role in livestock production. Machine learning (ML) is one
of the main types of AI that enables a computer to learn through a dataset and predict a test
outcome without being explicitly programmed to do so. Predicting outcomes based on an input data
is statistically, the outcome of a machine learning algorithm. Machine learning methods show better prediction performance in broiler production. Studies have
shown that broiler growth and body weight can be predicted with 98% to 99%. In addition, neural network models detected the presence or absence of ascites in broiler chickens with 100% effectiveness. When machine-vision techniques were incorporated into SVM models, accuracy reached 99.5% for identifying healthy and avian influenza infected chickens in the SVM literature (Arowolo, 2017). It may be concluded that ML is likely to play an essential role in broiler growth prediction and health disorders detection. As a result, the study seeks to examine broiler growth and health predictions through machinelearning
techniques. Due to its ability to deal effectively with large datasets and model nonlinear relationships appropriately, ML has great potential to complement or replace conventional approaches in poultry-production systems of the future.

Medicine and Pharmacy

Investigating the Antioxidant Potency of Ethanol Extracts of Chia Seeds

Pages 278-288

rasool chaloob hulyal

Abstract Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) is a plant classified as a member of the Lamiaceae family. From a nutritional perspective, it is a considerable source of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and dietary fiber with a very high number of antioxidants. The aim of this work is to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the alcoholic extract of chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) using multiple assays, including linoleic acid peroxidation inhibition, hydrogen peroxide scavenging, reducing power, and ferrous ion chelation, and to compare these activities against the synthetic antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and the natural antioxidant tocopherol. Chia seeds were collected from local markets. After alcoholic extraction, the chia extract was evaluated using several tests including glycosides test, Keller-Kiliani test, sodium hydroxide test, alkaloids test, phenolic compounds test, tannins test, resins test, and flavonoids test. It also involved the measurement of antioxidant activity using the linoleic acid system, reducing power, scavenging of hydrogen peroxide, and ferrous ion binding activity. The results showed that the alcoholic chia extract demonstrated significantly higher antioxidant activity (p < 0.05) than the natural antioxidant tocopherol at 100% concentration. The alcoholic extract also showed the ability to scavenge hydrogen peroxide at 86.7% at 100% concentration, which was statistically superior to BHT (84.70%, p = 0.031). Our study demonstrated satisfying antioxidant activity of the alcoholic chia plant extract compared to the synthetic antioxidant BHT and tocopherol. In addition, the alcoholic extract of the chia plant showed significant ability to scavenge hydrogen peroxide, superior to BHT.