Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifaceted endocrine and metabolic disorder, which involves not only defects in insulin action and β-cell function. There is some evidence that the chronic hyperglycemia, increased visceral adipose tissue and low-grade inflammation seen in patients affected with T2DM may lead to derangement of hypothalamic–pituitary function and therefore gonadal steroidogenesis, however sex-specific hormonal profile has been poorly described in Middle Eastern individuals. The present case–control study addressed levels of pituitary and gonadal hormones in T2DM adults, and was conducted to assess their association with glycemic control. One hundred adults were recruited (50 patients with T2DM [25 men and 25 women] and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls). Anthropometric parameters, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), lipid profile and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were estimated. Serum luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, prolactin, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), testosterone (TT) in men and estradiol (E2) in women were measured with chemiluminescent immunoassays. Patients with T2DM showed higher body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, and HbA1c levels than controls (p < 0.001). Gonadotropin was significantly lower and prolactin, thyroid-stimulating hormone levels were higher in male as well as female patients. Men with T2DM had significantly lower testosterone and affected women had significantly lower estradiol concentration. Glycated hemoglobin significantly negatively correlated with gonadotropins and sex steroids, and positively correlated with prolactin and thyroid-stimulating hormone. These data showed that T2DM was associated with abnormalities in pituitary–gonadal and pituitary–thyroid function (represented by hypogonadism, hyperprolactinemia and thyroid axis alterations), regardless of gender; this finding highlights a need to carry out endocrinological evaluation in poorly controlled patients.

Environmental pollution from crude oil and its derivatives poses a significant environmental challenge due to the presence of toxic hydrocarbons such as benzene, phenols, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Bioremediation has emerged as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical and physical methods. In this study, the filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger was used to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using cell filtrate as a green, low-cost, and sustainable approach. The resulting nanoparticles were characterized via visual observation, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), and FTIR spectroscopy, confirming their formation and stability. Subsequently, the efficacy of A. niger alone and in combination with AgNPs in treating crude oil-contaminated water samples was evaluated. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations and a significant degradation of PAHs. Treatment with the A. niger-AgNP mixture demonstrated superior performance compared to using fungi alone, particularly in degrading complex and stubborn hydrocarbon compounds. These results confirm the potential of nano-assisted fungal biotechnology as a promising option for sustainable environmental remediation.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is frequently associated with metabolic disturbances and thyroid dysfunction, which may exacerbate hormonal and cardiometabolic abnormalities. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of thyroid functional status on metabolic and hormonal parameters in women with PCOS. A total of 100 women diagnosed with PCOS were enrolled and stratified into three groups according to thyroid function: euthyroid (normal TSH, (n = 55), subclinical hypothyroidism (n = 35), and overt hypothyroidism (n = 10). Anthropometric measurements, thyroid hormones, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and lipid profile parameters were assessed. Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, and group comparisons were performed using one-way ANOVA followed by post-hoc Tukeytest. Significant differences were observed among the three groups for all evaluated parameters. BMI and TSH levels increased progressively with worsening thyroid dysfunction (p < 0.001). Serum T3 and T4 levels decreased significantly across groups (p = 0.02 and p = 0.001, respectively). Insulin resistance was significantly higher in patients with hypothyroidism compared to euthyroid patients (p = 0.005). Moreover, triglycerides and LDL-C levels increased, while HDL-C levels decreased significantly with thyroid dysfunction (p < 0.05). Thyroid dysfunction, including subclinical hypothyroidism, is associated with adverse metabolic and hormonal alterations in women with PCOS. These findings highlight the importance of routine thyroid function assessment in PCOS patients to identify individuals at higher metabolic risk.

Blood samples were collected before treatment and after recovery from infection (healthy individuals and patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis). The research was then carried out at the Al-Amin Center for Advanced Biotechnology Research at the Al-Ataba Al-Alawiyya - Najaf. The aim was to evaluate some of the immune effects in people infected with Leishmania tropica parasites that cause cutaneous leishmaniasis. The results showed changes in the immunological markers of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and a significant increase in tumor necrosis factor kappa B (TNF-κB) levels in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis. These levels were significantly higher in patients before treatment compared to the control group. Conversely, a significant decrease in IL-8, IL-6, and IFN-κB levels was observed after recovery, while no immunological changes in interferon gamma (IFN-κB) were recorded in the patients. The current study showed that immune changes are of great importance in controlling parasitic diseases, and that pentostam treatment has a significant effect on the humoral and cellular immune response to control individuals infected with cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Tooth decay is a common disease that occurs as a result of the erosion of tooth enamel by acids produced by bacteria when they feed on sugars. This leads to the formation of cavities, and the damage may extend to the tooth nerve if treatment is neglected. Tooth decay causes varying levels of pain and sensitivity, in addition to unpleasant breath, and the condition may develop into infections and abscesses. The impact of tooth decay is not limited to oral health; it can also negatively affect overall body health. Oral infections may influence heart health, exacerbate complications for diabetic patients, and weaken the body's immune system. Furthermore, it can lead to difficulties in chewing and speaking, as well as impacting an individual’s psychological well-being. "The samples included both genders across various age groups, ranging from 10 to 45 years. Appropriate microscopic, cultural, and biochemical tests were performed. Out of the total, 230 samples (92%) showed positive growth. The isolates included Gram-positive species, distributed as follows: Strep. mutans (120 isolates, 52.17%), Staph. aureus (70 isolates, 30.43%), and Strep. pyogenes (40 isolates, 17.40%). The susceptibility of these bacterial isolates was tested against three types of antibiotics: Metronidazole, Clindamycin, and Amoxicillin. The results indicated that Staph. aureus isolates exhibited resistance to all the antibiotics studied. As for the Streptococcus isolates, they showed varying responses to the antibiotics depending on the species studied. Strep pyogenes exhibited a varied response to two antibiotics, Clindamycin and Amoxicillin, with inhibition zones of 22mm and 28mm respectively, while Metronidazole showed no effect. On the other hand, the Strep. mutans species demonstrated a varied response toward all the tested antibiotics with better overall results. Additionally, the susceptibility of the isolates was tested against three types of synthesized nanomaterials—Zinc (Zn), Silver (Ag), and Titanium (Ti)—at concentrations of 25%, 50%, and 100% μg/ml. The results showed that Zinc and Titanium nanoparticles acted as effective antibacterial agents with varying rates. In contrast, none of the isolates showed any response to the Silver nanomaterials. Subsequently, a synergistic test was conducted by combining the nanomaterials, which yielded superior results compared to their individual use.

The increasing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), specifically focusing on P. aeruginosa, underscores the need for new anti-pseudomonal compounds. This study uses cutting-edge computer-based strategies for the evaluation of the inhibitory activity of natural compounds Thymol, Curcumin, and Piperine (model polyphenols and alkaloids) on the DNA gyrase of bacteria, which is a well-proven target for antimicrobials, against a quinolone compound. Molecular docking studies were carried out using InstaDock v1.1.exe, calculating binding energies (ΔG), along with the study of biological pharmaceutical properties through the SWISS Drug Design platform (https://www.swissdrugdesign.org/), and toxicity studies using the GUSAR software portal (http://www.pharmaexpert.ru/gusar/). Docking studies reveal the order of compound interaction: Thymol > Curcumin > Quinolone > Piperine, where Thymol was the strongest binder at the ATP pocket of the target protein. However, the results of the analysis of the absorption, Distribution, Metabolization, and Excretion (ADME) of the compounds show that Curcumin is the compound with the highest Safety (LD50) but also exhibits several severe metabolic toxicity (3/5 CYP450 inhibition), also exhibited by Piperine. However, Thymol demonstrates the best metabolic profile, characterized by the absence of CYP inhibitions, high gastrointestinal absorption, and ease of diffusion through the blood-brain barrier. Overall, these studies clearly envisage Thymol for the prospective study for the first time, together with the requirement for specific modifications of Curcumin for overcoming the metabolic toxicity exhibited by the compound.

The coronavirus responsible for COVID‑19, SARS‑CoV‑2, was first identified in late 2019 and quickly spread globally, bringing about a severe public health emergency of international concern. This review summarizes genetic evolution, mutation mechanisms, epidemiology trends and the impact of virus on vaccine induced immunity. With RNA replication error, recombination, and selective pressures, these have resulted in the emergence of several variants of concern such as Delta and Omicron with increased transmissibility with partial immune escape. The millions of new cases and hundreds of thousands of deaths are well documented in global and Iraqi epidemiological data; Iraq claims more than two million confirmed COVID cases. Viral mutations, most notably in the spike protein, have affected vaccine effectiveness, but booster doses and updated vaccines have helped protect against severe disease. Integrating genomic, epidemiological and immunological data is needed to inform ongoing public health responses, adapt the vaccine for evolving variants and ensure preparedness for other viral threats in the future.

Background: Drug abuse is a chronic brain disorder affecting the dopaminergic system, characterized by a recurring cycle of intoxication and addiction. This study aimed to evaluate telomerase enzyme levels in drug users and their relationship to various demographic and health factors. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Drug and Psychotropic Substance Addiction Treatment Center in Kirkuk (Ministry of Interior). The study included 25 drug users of varying ages and backgrounds, all with pre-existing chronic conditions (diabetes, hypertension, and cancer), as well as 10 healthy individuals as a control group. .Blood samples were collected in yellow top blood tubes, centrifuged, and stored at -20°C. Telomerase enzyme levels were measured using ELISA. Results: 1- Socio-Demographic Characteristics. Type of Drug Used:- Our study results indicated that the majority of the sample (92%) used crystal meth, while the remaining percentages were distributed between marijuana and Lyrica to a lesser extent. Here, we note that the type of drug was not statistically significant in the distribution (p = 0.412). Marital and Method: Half of the sample (48%) was married, followed by single individuals (32%). Regarding place of residence, 80% of the participants lived in the city center, with limited geographical distribution in other governorates such as Baghdad, Duhok, Erbil, and Sulaymaniyah. 2- Associated Diseases of Addicts: The study revealed that the largest percentage of drug users suffered from hypertension (80%) among the sample, followed by diabetes. Statistically significant correlations (p = 0.032) were found regarding the distribution of these diseases among the sample, indicating that hypertension was the predominant characteristic in this group. Telomerase Enzyme Levels: When measuring telomerase enzyme levels, it was observed that diabetic patients had the highest average telomerase level (0.056531), while those with hypertension had an average level of 0.055248. The average enzyme level in healthy individuals was 0.054555. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates a significant correlation between crystal meth use and hypertension in most participants. Telomerase enzyme levels showed slight variations based on the type of pre-existing condition, with those with diabetes and hypertension exhibiting higher levels compared to healthy individuals in the study.

Viral infections can have long-lasting immunological and neurological fingerprints, or so-called virial fingerprints. These effects are seen in behavioral changes, cognitive impairments and neurological disorders. This review provides a synthesis of the present state of the art focused on current evidence for how viruses interfere with the central nervous system (CNS) in terms of blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, neuro-inflammation, neurotransmitter imbalances and vascular dysfunction. It also covers the clinical manifestations of brain fog, anxiety, and migraine and focus on management strategies for post-viral syndromes.

The dumping of the raw municipal sewage in the Tigris River in Baghdad is also a major danger to the aquatic organisms, especially fish, which forms the source of food and livelihood of the local people. The current research examined the effects of sewage effluent on the African sharptooth catfish, i.e. Clarias gariepinus, by comparing the samples in reference (upstream) and sewage-afflicted (downstream) locations across a 15 kilometre stretch of the Tigris River near the Baghdad Medical City Complex. Water quality analysis revealed significantly elevated biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5 = 48–125 mg/L), chemical oxygen demand (COD = 85–215 mg/L), total suspended solids (TSS = 156–412 mg/L), and heavy metals (Pb: 0.35–0.78 mg/L; Cd: 0.12–0.31 mg/L; Zn: 1.2–3.8 mg/L) at impacted sites compared with reference sites (BOD5 = 4–8 mg/L; COD = 12–18 mg/L; TSS = 22–35 mg/L). The catfish in the sewage affected reaches showed a much lower condition factor (K = 0.85 ± 0.12 versus 1.24 ± 0.14, p < 0.001), high liver somatic index (LSI = 2.8 + 0.45 per cent versus 1.6 + 0.38 per cent, p < 0.001), and severe histopathological changes in the gills and liver, such as, epithelial hyperplasia, lamellar fusion, gill. Oxidative stress biomarkers indicated elevated lipid peroxidation (MDA: 18.5 ± 3.2 nmol/mg protein vs. 6.8 ± 1.5, p < 0.001) and depleted antioxidant defenses (reduced GSH: 15.3 ± 2.8 μmol/mg protein vs. 32.6 ± 4.1, p < 0.001) in livers of impacted fish. The indices of gill and liver lesions had positive significant correlations with biochemical oxygen demand (BOD; r = 0.78, p < 0.001) and heavy-metal concentrations (r = 0.72–0.81, p < 0.001). Those findings corroborate that continuous exposure to untreated sewage results in multisystemic pathology in catfish, and thus, affects the physiological fitness of catfish, and may lead to the loss of population viability. There should be urgent adoption of efficient wastewater treatment, strict effluent regulation as well as long-term monitoring of fish health in order to protect the Tigris River and human population relying on it.

One of the most widely used herbicides in the world, glyphosate, has contaminated waterways, posing a threat to both human health and the environment. The effectiveness of Lemna sp. (duckweed) in removing glyphosate (GLY) from contaminated aquatic medium in a lab setting is examined in this study. Plants were taken from the Diyala River in Iraq and placed on Schenk and Hildebrandt (SH) medium. After being treated with varying concentrations of glyphosate (25–150 mgl−1), growth parameters, chlorophyll contents (a, b total), and the effectiveness of glyphosate removal were measured after seven and fifteen days. Using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to Determine Residual Glyphosate. The glyphosate residue levels were ascertained using this technique. According to the results, after 15 days, Lemna sp. had a maximum clearance effectiveness of 87% at 75 mg/L. Chlorophyll content increased dramatically at low concentrations (50–75 mg L-1), indicating metabolic adaptability and potential glyphosate phosphorus utilization. Lemna sp. exhibits faster recovery and greater resistance to glyphosate in comparison to other phytoremediation plants, such as Cicer arietinum and Eichhornia crassipes. According to these results, duckweed may be an effective, affordable, and eco-friendly substitute for glyphosate-polluted aquatic systems.

Background: Dermatophytosis is common superficial fungal infection worldwide which involve keratinized tissues including skin, hair and nails. Direct diagnostic approaches based on potassium hydroxide (KOH) microscopy and fungal culture have many limitations, mainly sensitivity and longer turnaround time. Direct polymerase chain reaction (PCR) recently became a rapid and sensitive diagnostic tool. Objective: To assess the diagnostic performance of Direct PCR in identifying dermatophytes and compare it with conventional methods. Methods: A Cross-sectional analytical study conducted from clinical samples of 100 patients suspected with dermatophytosis. All samples received KOH examination, fungal cultures and Direct PCR. Direct PCR have been evaluated against the fungal culture as a golden standard. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Statistical significance was determined by McNemar’s test. Results: Direct PCR showed a detection rate of 70% compared to the fungal culture and KOH microscopy (40% and 25% respectively). The sensitivity and specificity of Direct PCR was 87.5% (95% confidence interval:73.2–95.8) and 41.7% (95% confidence interval:30.0–54.2), respectively. The PPV and NPV were 50.0% and 83.3%, respectively. Surgery for cardiovascular or hematologic indications to restore physiological functions in patients. There was a statistically significant difference between Direct PCR and fungal culture (p < 0.001). ROC curve analysis showed AUC approximately 0.65. The highest infection rate was observed in children aged less than 10 years, with the scalp being the most commonly affected site. Conclusions: that direct PCR is a highly sensitive diagnostic method which allows rapid detection compared to conventional methods and improves the early diagnosis of dermatophytosis. Despite a relatively low specificity as compared with culture of fungi, this could be due to the shortcomings of culture as a reference standard. Hence, can be useful to screen the patients effectively. Diagnostic algorithms are potentially useful tools and warrant additional refinement and implementation into standard clinical practice to increase diagnostic accuracy and optimize patient care.

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at the rs10046 locus in the aromatase gene CYP19A1 and certain biochemical variables, and their connection to the occurrence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Ninety (90) samples, aged 16-45 years, were collected for this study between November 1, 2022, and March 1, 2023. The samples were divided into two groups: 60 patients and 30 healthy individuals. Samples were collected from gynecology clinics at Tikrit Teaching Hospital and outpatient gynecology clinics. The results showed a significant increase in LH concentrations in patients compared to healthy individuals across all genotypes. The highest mean LH concentration was 18.97 in patients with the GG genotype, while the lowest mean LH concentration was 6.57 in healthy individuals with the GL genotype, While no significant differences were observed between the genotypes in the healthy group, as all were within the normal range for LH, a high standard deviation was noted in the GL and GG genotypes among the patients. This indicates a significant variation in the severity of hormonal imbalance between cases, which is common in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) due to varying degrees of hypothalamic hyperactivity in the brain. The results also suggest that the presence of the G allele in the GL and GG genotypes may be associated with increased activity of the hormonal pathways regulating LH secretion or with increased ovarian sensitivity to it. The LH/FSH ratio showed a gradual increase from the AA genotype (2.51 ± 2.93) to the GA genotype (3.33 ± 2.81) and then to the GG genotype (3.90 ± 4.94): AA → GA → GG. In contrast, the control group showed proportions within physiological limits, with mean values of 0.91 ± 0.35, 1.18 ± 0.50, and 1.49 ± 0.46 for AA, GA, and GG genotypes respectively. These results support the multifactorial nature of polycystic ovary syndrome, which includes both genetic predisposition and hormonal changes.

The interrelation between renewable energy (RE) deployment and environmental sustainability is increasingly critical for sustainable development in Iraq, Iran, and Turkey. Iraq possesses abundant solar irradiation and favorable wind corridors, yet renewable energy contributes less than 2% of electricity generation due to policy gaps, financial constraints, and technical limitations. In contrast, Iran and Turkey have implemented structured policies, feed-in tariffs, and private sector engagement, resulting in more significant renewable adoption. Renewable energy offers substantial environmental benefits, including greenhouse gas mitigation, improved air quality, water conservation, and promotion of circular economy practices through biomass and waste-to-energy systems. Effective implementation requires coherent policy frameworks, financial incentives, technical capacity building, and public awareness. Integration of hybrid systems, smart grids, and GIS-based site selection enhances reliability and efficiency, mitigating intermittency challenges. Strategically expanding renewable energy in Iraq can transform the national energy system into a low-carbon, decentralized, and resilient infrastructure. Such a transition supports socio-economic development by creating jobs, improving energy access, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels while contributing to long-term environmental sustainability. Comparative insights from Iran and Turkey provide practical pathways for policy, technology, and institutional development to accelerate Iraq’s renewable energy adoption.

Background: One of the most common intestinal parasites affecting people, especially children, is Hymenolepis nana. Aim of the Study: The purpose of this study was to determine the risk variables linked to hymenolepiasis in children and to evaluate its prevalence. This study also evaluated blood glucose, insulin, iron, copper, zinc, and selenium. Materials and Methods: 584 stool samples were collected from children who visited pediatric outpatient clinics in Samarra city from July 2023 to the end of March 2024. Result: The results showed an infection rate of 3.9%, with 57.4% diagnosed by flotation and sedimentation and 42.5% diagnosed by direct examination. Symptomatic infection was present in 72.2% of the children, while 27.7% were asymptomatic. The highest infection rate was among children aged 7-9 years (40.7%). The current study showed non-significant differences in the level of insulin between infected children and control (p-value > 0.05). Blood glucose, selenium, zinc, and iron levels decreased in children infected with H. nana that were (92.04±21.2 mg/dl, 189.74±59.12 µg/dL, 48.31±5.52 µg/dL, 85.36±9.28 µg/dL) as compared with control that were (115.12±32.4 mg/dl, 253.61±20.77 µg/dL, 74.63±10.71 µg/dL, 145.91±16.53 µg/dL, respectively, at a p-value < 0.05. While statistically increasing the level of copper in infected children as compared with the control (219.27±17.61 and 116.89±23.74 µg/dL, respectively) at a p-value < 0.05. Conclusion: The prevalence of H. nana infection is influenced by factors such as age, sex, and source of water. Furthermore, there is an association between infection with H. nana and iron, zinc, and selenium deficiency.

This study focused on isolating and identifying bacteria associated with oral cavity infections and exploring the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles as a supportive antibacterial agent. A total of 62 oral swab samples were collected from patients with oral conditions, including inflammation and ulcers. The samples were cultured on selective media, and the bacterial isolates were identified using morphological characteristics, biochemical tests, and the VITEK 2 system. The results showed that most samples (96.77%) exhibited bacterial growth, and all isolates were Gram-positive. Four main bacterial species were identified, with Streptococcus mutans being the most prevalent, followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus haemolyticus. These bacteria are commonly associated with oral infections and dental problems. The study also examined antibiotic susceptibility and the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles to enhance antibacterial activity. The findings suggest that Gram-positive bacteria largely dominate oral infections and highlight the importance of exploring alternative strategies, such as nanomaterials, to improve the effectiveness of antibiotics and help reduce bacterial resistance.