Al-Kunooze Scientific Journal

Abstract Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs), also referred to as urine infections, are inflammations of the urinary system that can affect both men and women, although they are more common in women. Objectives of the study: Evaluate the level of knowledge regarding UTIs among male and female patients. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study using non-random convenient sampling was conducted in two hospitals in Wasit Governorate, Iraq, with 350 participants. Results: 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. Conclusions: This study shows that half of the individuals have a fair knowledge score about UTIs. Our findings indicate that knowledge levels are not influenced by gender. Additionally, SES and a history of UTIs among participants emerge as significant variables impacting the overall knowledge score.

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.

Abstract Backgroud: Hyperglycemia in diabetes promotes Hypoxia leading to alterations in the cellular microenvironment, Hypoxia triggers adaptive cellular responses, which is largely regulated via a transcription factor termed Hypoxia- inducible factor 1 -alpha (HIF-1α), in addition Hypoxia influence Cell death pathways through stabilization of the tumor suppressor factor p53.Aims: our study aims to evaluate the implication of the genetic expression of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF-1α) in regulating p53 signaling in in individuals with T2DM in comparison with the non-diabetic control group. Methods: Whole blood was obtained from both T2DM and non-diabetic participants, followed by qPCR to estimate the relative transcriptional levels of (HIF-1α and P53).Results: The results showed a significant up regulation of gene expression of (HIF-1α and P53 ).in the patient relative to the control group, Analysis of covariance revealed that over model for (HIF-1α and P53 ) expression were statically significant, while diabetes ,gender and body mas index(BMI) did not showed significant no dependent effects, additionally a notable positive correlation was detected between expression of ( HIF-1α and P53) . Conclusion : The study illustrated that a potential impact of the HIF-1α signaling in inducing cell apoptosis through upregulating of p53 therefore, these results provide evidence that HIF-1α and p53 could act as interconnected cellular markers and support further investigation in expanded cohorts.

Abstract Breast cancer 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. In this study, you evaluate serum levels of interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and malondialdehyde in 48 breast cancer patients aged 25 to 64 years and compare them with 47 healthy individuals of similar age. You collect samples in Kirkuk between November 2025 and February 2026. You measure IL 6 and TNF alpha using ELISA, while you determine MDA using the TBARS method, then analyze the data with Student’s t test in SPSS. The results show that IL 6 reaches 12.47 ± 3.82 pg/mL in patients compared to 4.21 ± 1.35 pg/mL in controls, and TNF alpha 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. When you examine age groups, you find that patients aged 45 to 64 years show the highest values for all markers, with clear statistical differences across age categories, especially for MDA. These findings indicate increased inflammation and oxidative stress in breast cancer patients, and they support the use of these markers in detection, monitoring, and risk assessment, especially in older patients.

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.

Abstract Background: Fracture and retention or migration of a peripheral intravenous cannula (PIVC) fragment is a rare but potentially serious complication, and the available evidence remains dispersed across case reports and small case series.
Methods: This study was designed as a systematic review of published case reports and small case series. PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar were searched from database inception to 31 January 2026 for reports describing fractured, retained, migrated, or embolized fragments of peripheral intravenous cannulae. 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.
Results: 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 per
Conclusions: 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.

Abstract Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD), being a progressive disorder, is associated with the gradual deterioration of kidney function and involves complex metabolic disturbances. The identification of reliable circulating markers may help in the assessment of the severity of renal dysfunction.
Aim of study: To assess the circulating levels of Meteorin-Like protein (METRNL) and Fibroblast Growth Factor-21 (FGF-21), as well as ascertain the the diagnostic value and correlation with the parameters of renal function in chronic kidney disease patients.
Materials and Methods: This study was a case-control study, and a total of 90 subjects were included in the study, out of which 60 were patients with CKD and 30 were healthy controls. The patients with CKD were divided into mild to moderate and advanced stages of CKD. The serum levels of METRNL and FGF-21 were measured by the ELISA method, and the levels of serum creatinine, blood urea, and eGFR were measured.
Results: There was a significant decrease in the serum levels of METRNL in patients with CKD compared to the control subjects. The serum levels of METRNL in patients with CKD were 245.7 ± 71.3 and 182.6 ± 64.9 pg/mL, compared to 312.4 ± 85.6 pg/mL in the control subjects. The results showed that there was a significant increase in the serum levels of FGF-21 in patients with CKD compared to the control subjects. The serum levels of FGF-21 in patients with CKD were 214.9 ± 62.8 and 356.2 ± 95.4 pg/mL, compared to 108.5 ± 36.7 pg/mL in con

Abstract 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. It examined the nature of the relationship between the dimensions of strategic engineering (stability, security, and finance) and the level of organizational happiness among university employees. The study population consisted of all university employees, from whom a stratified random sample of 160 was selected. A total of 155 valid questionnaires were returned for analysis, representing a response rate of 96.9%, which is considered a suitable size for conducting advanced statistical analyses.

The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach and used partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the relationships between variables and test the hypotheses. The results showed a statistically significant positive effect of strategic engineering on organizational happiness, with varying strengths of influence across the dimensions. The finance dimension ranked first, followed by stability and security, reflecting the importance of integrated strategic resource management in enhancing employee well-being. The findings highlight the practical importance of strategic engineering in supporting decision-makers at Warith Al-Anbiya University by guiding organizational policies toward improving the work environment, enhancing employee engagement, and increasing organizational happiness, thereby contributing to improved institutional performance and workplace sustainability.

Keywords: Strategic engineering, organizational happiness in the workplace, Warith Al-Anbiya University.

Abstract To determine and classify the seasonal distributions of the major hard tick species (Ixodidae) on cattle and dogs in the north, middle and south of Thi-Qar provinces, an observatory was conducted between January and December 2024. From 3.812 native cattle and dogs, 11333 mature hard ticks were recovered. To ascertain the seasonal diversity, samples were taken from the same province each month. Five species from two genera (Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus) were found; Hyalomma anatolicum (62.76%) and Rhipicephalus turanicus (37.24%) were the most prevalent ticks. In addition to the earlier research, there were environmental variances between each province.
To determine and classify the seasonal distributions of the major hard tick species (Ixodidae) on cattle and dogs in the north, middle and south of Thi-Qar provinces, an observatory was conducted between January and December 2024. From 3.812 native cattle and dogs, 11333 mature hard ticks were recovered. To ascertain the seasonal diversity, samples were taken from the same province each month. Five species from two genera (Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus) were found; Hyalomma anatolicum (62.76%) and Rhipicephalus turanicus (37.24%) were the most prevalent ticks. In addition to the earlier research, there were environmental variances between each province.

Abstract Background: Tumor necrosis factor‑alpha (TNF‑α) is a multifaceted pro‑inflammatory cytokine with significant pro‑coagulant properties. The TNF‑α promoter polymorphism (rs1800629) is a functional gain‑of‑function mutation linked to increased cytokine production and modified immune responses. The effect on thromboembolic risk in warfarin‑treated hematological patients in Iraq remains unclear.
Objectives: This prospective case‑control study encompassed 320 Iraqi patients taking chronic warfarin therapy for hematological diseases and 280 healthy. Genotyping of TNF‑α –308G>A was conducted by ARMS‑PCR. Clinical outcomes encompassing bleeding incidents, thromboembolic events, and time in therapeutic range (TTR) were prospectively recorded. Logistic and multiple linear regression were utilized for adjusted analysis.
Results: The A allele frequency was markedly elevated in patients (21.7%) relative to controls (14.1%; OR = 1.68; 95% CI: 1.23–2.29; p = 0.001). Individuals possessing A allele (GA + AA genotypes) exhibited a 2.18‑fold elevated 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 exhibited a lower mean TTR (56.8 ± 14.9% vs. 64.3 ± 16.1% in GG carriers; p = 0.008). The TNF‑α genotype contributed an independent partial R² = 0.031 to a six‑locus pharmacogenetic‑cytokine model for warfarin dose (overall R² = 0.613).
Conclusion: the TNF‑α–308A allele constitute an independent risk factor for thromboembolic events in Iraqi patients undergoing warfarin‑treated hematological illness. 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.

Abstract This research aimed to develop and evaluate a novel preservation approach based on sensory attributes of refrigerated beef patties. through use a hybrid nano-emulsion system combining rosemary phenolic extract and green tea catechins, encapsulated using food-grade biopolymers. High-energy ultrasound was used to prepare bioactive nano-coated materials, and encapsulation efficiency, particle size, and zeta potential were determined. Beef slices were prepared and divided into four groups: control, free, low-dose, and high-dose. All samples were stored for 3 weeks at 4 ± 1°C. 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.

Abstract Background: 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. Objectives of the study: Find the relationship between exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution in the governorate of Al-Diwaniyah, Iraq. Methodology: 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. Results: 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

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.

Abstract This study focused on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the CNTNAP2 gene, which is closely associated with the adhesion between glial cells and neurons. Twenty children of the same age and sex (ten with ASD and ten healthy) were selected. DNA was extracted from the marked samples for both targeted groups of patients and healthy individuals then the process of tests is confirmed by electrophoresis. The samples have been sent to international lab (Macrogen Korea) for making the tests for analysis whole-exome. For performing the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform to identify genetic variants. The required analysis is focused on the main variants which located in/near exons or regulatory regions of CNTNAP2 gene to determine the functional impact for number of gene mutations. There are no deviations have been appearing through adopting both of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and chi-square test that reflect highly percentage of validating of studied data and that making valuable interpreting the potential genetic contribution to susceptibility to autism spectrum disorder. The validating the genotype data and ensuring the absence of systematic errors in genotype determination or selection bias. In term of outcomes of analysis has been highlighted several number for (non-coding and synonymous mutations) has been identify them during the period of the study. Finally, the paper display that mutations do not alter the protein sequence and contributed to autism through gene accumulation, transcriptional stability, and activation of neural pathways.

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.

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

Abstract Polymer chemistry is an important scinces for energy storage technologies and has a vital role in energy transition to sustainable systems worldwide. This review identify 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 Have many applications 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). Also this review aims to highlight various applications, such as solid polymer electrolytes to enhance safety and prevent thermal run-away 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. On the other hand this study 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. Finally this study included the highlights prospects of exploiting polymer chemistry and sustainable practices to realize effective, green energy storage systems and the future of decarbonized energy.

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 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. 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 machine-learning 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.