Al-Kunooze Scientific Journal

Abstract Morphological characterization has gradually been replaced by molecular DNA methods to specifically identify the species of fungi. Therefore, an efficient, fast, and inexpensive procedure to get the fungal genomic DNA is very desirable in a variety of applications including DNA barcoding and genetic epidemiology. This study was aimed at designing a quick ribosomal DNA (rDNA) extraction from fungal pure cultures of ascomycetes and also validate the specificity of monoclonal antibody JF5 in the recognition of antigens of the genus Aspergillus. The development of DNA extraction protocol was tested on 60 isolates of ascomycete fungi and the conventional CTAB methodology was used as the control. Universal ITS primers were used to sequence the amplified ITS regions. At the same time, direct ELISA of surface wash antigens of the tested fungi was carried out. ITS sequencing established the great efficiency (100%) of the rapid protocol and resulted in amplifiable DNA of the appropriate size of the all tested fungal species. This molecular recognition was confirmed immunologically for Aspergillus. JF5 was able to show high specificity toward antigens of the genus Aspergillus. The developed protocol for Aspergillus identification is simple, harmless and can process several samples simultaneously. JF5 exhibited high specificity for Aspergillus antigen detection.

Abstract Background: Ramadan fasting is a unique form of intermittent fasting characterized by abstinence from food and drink from dawn to sunset. Its effects on anthropometric parameters and metabolic health remain an active area of research.
Objective: To evaluate the short-term effects of Ramadan fasting on body weight and lipid profile in apparently healthy Iraqi adults.
Methods: A total of 58 volunteers (30 men and 28 women; mean age 40 ± 9 years) were enrolled in a pre–post observational study conducted in Basra, Iraq, during Ramadan 2025. Anthropometric measurements and fasting venous blood samples were collected 1–3 days before Ramadan and during the last 5 days of fasting. Lipid profile parameters (total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, triglycerides, and VLDL-C) were measured using standardized enzymatic kits and spectrophotometry. Data were analyzed using paired-samples t-tests.
Results: Ramadan fasting was associated with significant reductions in total cholesterol (210.9 ± 69.9 vs. 183.5 ± 62.7 mg/dL, p < 0.01), LDL-C (120.2 ± 68.2 vs. 94.9 ± 60.5 mg/dL, p < 0.01), triglycerides (153.6 ± 87.9 vs. 117.1 ± 60.1 mg/dL, p < 0.01), and VLDL-C (30.7 ± 17.6 vs. 23.5 ± 12.1 mg/dL, p < 0.01). HDL-C showed a non-significant change (65.9 ± 15.5 vs. 66.2 ± 15.5 mg/dL, p = 0.87). The TG/HDL ratio shows a significant reduction (2.97 ± 2.540 vs. 1.88 ± 1.244 , p < 0.01)  ..Participants experienced modest, non-significant weight reduction (−0.74 ± 2.1 kg, p = 0.082).
Conclusion: Ramadan fasting led to favorable improvements in lipid profile and minor weight reduction among Iraqi adults. While these findings suggest potential cardiovascular benefits, further controlled studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are warranted
 

Abstract Diabetes Mellitus (DM) poses a substantial global public health with arisen burden in growing future also various comorbidities linked to .Therefore, many parameters related to the glycemic state have been measured to facilitate it’s diagnosis. Recent studies have revealed a significant correlation among blood sugar levels and ferritin, CRP levels in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The objective of the research was to examine the relationship between Ferritin levels and C reactive protein on HbA1c in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Participation in the study was extended to a total of fifty those who were diagnosed with having type 2 diabetes. Following a time of fasting that lasted for an entire night, a sample of venous blood that was ten milliliters in volume was obtained for the purpose of conducting an analysis of biochemical profile. The information was transferred to SPSS version 23 for Windows so that the analysis could be carried out. Although it was shown that the levels of HbA1c showed a positive association with C-reactive protein, the high p-value of Ferritin precluded the discovery of any correlation between the two variables.
 

Abstract Abstract: Covid-19 has affected many countries around the world. Medical science students are the future public health staff who can provide the citizens with correct virological information. The study aimed to assess private medical sciences students' knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding COVID-19 and to draw conclusions about their competence as community counselors regarding the pandemic. An online pre-tested questionnaire includes the study variables on: student demographics (5), COVID-19 information sources, student knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Descriptive and inferential statistics of students KAPs and demographic characteristics were studied. A p-value of p ≤ 0.05 was considered significant of the 383 participants, 53.5% were male, more than half were 20-25 years old, while a proportion of nursing students were over 25 years old. 66.8% of the students were not vaccinated. A total of 50.4% were infected. 51.7% got their information about the virus from a variety of sources, mostly the Internet, and rarely from scientific or official sources. Students from different faculties showed sufficient knowledge and good practices, although their attitudes were average and did not differ significantly among the groups (p > 0.05). The students' knowledge and practices were adequate and varied significantly with their demographic characteristics. Their attitudes were average and not statistically different. Older nursing students (25 years and over) were more knowledgeable and better practiced. Students should rely on scientific and official sources to improve their KAPs and become competent Covid-19 advisors. The low rates of positive attitudes could be attributed to student’s beliefs and social habits.
 

Abstract Abstract

Topical delivery of antifungal is widely used for treating superficial and deep skin mycosis. However, conventional formulations have some limitations, including low skin penetration, short retention times at the site of application, and reduced therapeutic efficacy, as well as topical adverse effects such as irritation, erythema, burning, itching, sensation, stinging, and dryness at the application site. Furthermore, prolonged application may lead to contact dermatitis, scaling, or peeling. To overcome these limitations, novel drug delivery systems like novasomes have gained increasing attention. Novasomes are multilamellar nano-vesicular systems that consist of non-ionic surfactants, free fatty acid, in addition to cholesterol as a membrane stabilizing agent. The presence of free fatty acids, such as stearic acid or oleic acid, in their structure acts as a permeability enhancer agent, making the novasomes more flexible and tissue permeation compared to the older niosomes or liposomes. Furthermore, the novasomes have more drug loading and stability in contrast to other nanovesicles. These characteristics make the novasomes a target for improving the topical and transdermal delivery of antifungals. When applied topically, the novasomes can interact with the stratum corneum, enhancing the skin permeation and improving the topical delivery. Several studies demonstrate that the novasomes have a prolog drug release profile, a higher cumulative drug release percent compared to conventional creams or gels. Additionally, the novasomes are formulated from biocompatible and skin-friendly components. Overall, the novasomal drug delivery systems represent a promising strategy for topical antifungals, offering safe, effective, and more patient adherence.

Abstract Methotrexate (MTX) is an analog of folic acid utilized as a low-dose treatment for autoimmune diseases, such as PsA or RA and a high-dose treatment for cancer. MTX increased the apoptosis by switching on caspase 3, which is switching on death protease, stimulating the specific incision of cellular proteinase. We chose BSE for this research because it content from glucoraphanin higher than adult broccoli, This research aimed to determine the levels of casp -3 and liver function to determinated protective effects of BSE in mitigating MTX impact in rat female due to lack of studies that addressed this matter especially in females which spread among them lots of autoimmune diseases requires MTX use. RT-qPCR technique was used to determination levels of gene expression subsequent to RNA extraction. Our study suggested that BSE enhance liver functions and caspase 3 expression in rat that treated with MTX and broccoli sprout extract and in groups treated with BSE only if we compared it with control and MTX groups.

Abstract Abstract:

Using a cross-sectional methodology, blood samples were subjected to ELISA analysis to quantify rubella IgM, rubella IgG, and anti-dsDNA antibody concentrations in order to ascertain the correlation between rubella immunological indicators, specifically IgM and IgG, and anti-dsDNA antibody concentrations in a sample of fifty-nine reproductive-age women; Rubella IgM levels were consistently low throughout the study group, indicating the absence of acute infection, while rubella IgG levels showed significant variability, likely reflecting differences in prior exposure or immunity. Anti-dsDNA antibody levels were highly variable; some showed markedly elevated concentrations, indicating subclinical autoimmune activity; a noteworthy finding was the progressive increase in anti-dsDNA levels among women who had two or three abortions, a group that also showed the most prominent outlier titers, strongly indicating the involvement of autoimmune processes in recurrent pregnancy loss within a particular subset of women; participants who had six or more abortions showed normal dsDNA levels, indicating that extreme recurrent pregnancy loss is likely due to non-autoimmune causes, Rubella IgM levels did not correlate with anti-dsDNA.

Abstract The study included the preparation of three types of chalcons compound (T1, T2, and T3) through the interaction of addition (4-azidophenylethanone) with some types of aldehydes (oxochromane-3-carbldehyde , 4-dimethyl ameno benzaldehyde,3-nitro benzaldehyde) With the presence of a basic medium, the prepared compounds were diagnosed with FTIR infrared technology, 1H-NMR technology, 13C-NMR, and by the Mass-spectra technique that was used in the diagnosis of the prepared compounds. Good results. The effectiveness of these compounds against oxidative stress was studied on the cell line HCAM and good results were shown, The prepared azide compounds were loaded on liposomes which were prepared from lecithin, The effect of the acidic function on the liberation of the prepared compounds from the layers of lipid nanoparticles was also studied at the functions (pH = 7.2), stomach fluid (pH = 1.2) and intestines (pH = 8.2) and using ultraviolet spectroscopy at a temperature of (37°C). The effectiveness of the liposomes loaded against human liver cancer HCAM and the rate of inhibition at a concentration of 1000 micrograms/mol were measured and the lethal half concentration IC50 was calculated using different concentrations (10,100,200,500,750) micrograms/mol and in the presence of DMSO solvent, and they showed good results and high efficacy. The comparison was also made using a TEM electron microscope of the liposomes in the presence and absence of the prepared compounds.

Abstract Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy is highly effective for weight loss, but long-term data regarding the durability of metabolic improvements remain varied. This study aimed to evaluates how significant metabolic markers—specifically blood sugar, renal function (urea), and lipid profiles (cholesterol/HDL)—evolve alongside body mass index (BMI) over a 4-year period. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 30 patients was conducted, comparing preoperative data to 4-year follow-up results. Results: Anticipated results include a sustained reduction in BMI and blood sugar, with a significant increase in HDL levels. Statistical analysis will determine if age and sex influence the degree of these changes. Conclusion: The findings will provide insight into the long-term efficacy of LSG as a metabolic surgery rather than just a weight-loss procedure.The objective of study:
To assess pre-operative and 4 years post-operative mean difference in BMI and excess weight loss, to evaluate the long-term impact of LSG glycemic control (Blood Sugar) and lipid profiles (Total Cholesterol and HDL), To evaluate renal safety and metabolic byproduct variations through Serum Urea levels, and to ascertain if Age and sex tend to be independent predictors of the degree of metabolic improvement.

Abstract The study aimed to evaluate the effects of different doses of gabapentin on the testes and epididymis of adult male mice and on oxidative stress markers, it also investigated its impact on sperm quality and overall reproductive function . Twenty-four adult male mice were randomly divided into 4 groups. Mice of groups 1 served as control and administrated with 0.1 ml sterile saline, and other groups treated with Gabapentin orally administered with 0.1 ml of a daily dose of concentrations (5, 10, 20) mg/kg for 60 consecutive days. Gabapentin significantly decrease (p < 0.05) the absolute weight of body, testis and tail of epididymis of treated mice, significantly increased (P≤ 0.05) malondialdehyde serum level , catalase and superoxide dismutase, also show significantly decreased (P≤0.05) in glutathione levels and vitamin E levels . The results observe several histological changes in the testes and cauda of epididymis includes, azoospermia, Detaching spermatogonia, Necrosis, Edema, Congestion, Amyloid deposition , Irregular tubule , Rupture of seminiferous tubules epithelium , Slephing germ cells , Atrophy Tubules, Shrinkage tubule, Hemorrhagic , Hyperplasia, and Pyknosis. The sperm of mice treated with the drug at its three concentrations showed several abnormalities., including coiled , folded and broken tails, bent neck, , tailless, as well as sperms with cytoplasmic droplets. Gabapentin administration negatively affects the testes and epididymis ,impairing sperms quality and overall reproductive function in mice .These findings suggest that long-term gabapentin use may pose risks to male fertility .

Abstract Abstract
This study aimed to examine how the “job burnout “ affects on auditors ' effectiveness and professional skepticism in Iraq and contributes to the body of knowledge concerning auditing issues in the similar case countries ; The quantitative methodology was used for this study; Data were collected via structured questionnaires (n = 215) which measured the auditors' perceptions of burnout, performance and skepticism utilizing validated measurement scales.
the findings indicate that many auditors have high degrees of emotional exhaustion; however, it is midcareer auditors who are most vulnerable to these experiences. Depersonalization (a symptom of burnout) is negatively related to professional skepticism, which indicates that burnout has a significant impact on an auditor's ability to use his or her critical thinking skills. In addition, the research found that almost half of the variation in skepticism can be attributed to burnout, and many of the highly-stressed auditors reported paying less attention to red flags than they would have otherwise. As well, performance metrics decreased significantly as burnout increased, specifically because of emotional exhaustion.
This study highlighted on the very serious effects of burnout in a special professional setting in Iraq. The practical application of this study provides guidance for organizations that have auditors working under high stress conditions (i.e., "tailored" support systems), as well as for the government to take regulatory steps to help minimize the risk of burnout for auditors.
Keywords Job burnout, Professional skepticism, Auditor performance, Iraq

Abstract Background: The development of rapid, sensitive, and environmentally friendly sample preparation methods is important for monitoring antibiotic residues in complex biological matrices. Objective: The objective of this study was to develop a novel microwave-assisted density-tunable dispersive solid-phase extraction (MA-DT-DSPE) method for the extraction and preconcentration of tetracycline from human urine samples prior to high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). Materials and Methods: The proposed method employed a low-density organic sorbent (safranal) dissolved in a volatile dispersive solvent and rapidly injected into the aqueous sample. Microwave irradiation caused instantaneous volatilization of the dispersive solvent, resulting in in-situ formation and homogeneous dispersion of fine sorbent droplets without mechanical agitation. Because the sorbent was less dense than water, the analyte-enriched phase floated to the surface for easy collection. The effects of dispersive solvent type and volume, sorbent mass, microwave power, irradiation time, and ionic strength were systematically optimized. Results: Under optimal conditions, the method showed a low limit of detection of 0.26 ng mL⁻¹, linearity over 0.8–200 ng mL⁻¹ (R² ≥ 0.994), extraction recovery of 74%, and precision better than 5.6% relative standard deviation. Analysis of spiked urine samples gave relative recoveries of 96%–107%, indicating negligible matrix effects. Conclusions: It can be concluded that the MA-DT-DSPE-HPLC-DAD method is a rapid, simple, sensitive, reproducible, and eco-friendly analytical approach, making it a promising alternative for routine determination of tetracycline residues in human urine samples.

Abstract The human brain contains an estimated 86 billion neurons. Those billions of brain cell communicate by passing chemical messages at the synapse, the small gap between cells, in a process called neurotransmitters. Those chemical messages are unique molecules called neurotransmitters.
There are many types of neurotransmitters in the brain. But they do have a few things in common, the neurotransmitters are endogenous or produced inside the neuron itself. When cell is activated, these neuro chemicals are released into the synapse from specialized pouches clustered near the cell membrane called synapse vesicles. Specific receptors on neighboring cells can then take up the neurotransmitters, which can increase or decrease the signal being passed along a particular circuit. The human brain contains an estimated 86 billion neurons. Those billions of brain cell communicate by passing chemical messages at the synapse, the small gap between cells, in a process called neurotransmitters. Those chemical messages are unique molecules called neurotransmitters.
There are many types of neurotransmitters in the brain. But they do have a few things in common, the neurotransmitters are endogenous or produced inside the neuron itself. When cell is activated, these neuro chemicals are released into the synapse from specialized pouches clustered near the cell membrane called synapse vesicles. Specific receptors on neighboring cells can then take up the neurotransmitters, which can increase or decrease the signal being passed along a particular circuit.

Abstract Monkeypox virus (MPXV), an emerging zoonotic poxvirus, has recently gained global attention due to its rising prevalence and capacity to cause systemic disease in humans. MPXV infection affects multiple organ systems beyond the typical skin manifestations, resulting in a wide range of clinical outcomes. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the systemic physiological pathologies and clinical epidemiology associated with monkeypox virus (MPXV), with a particular focus on viral dissemination in various organ tissues. We also assess the effects of MPXV on the genitourinary, circulatory, nervous, cutaneous, respiratory, lymphatic, and gastrointestinal systems. Furthermore, we discuss current diagnostic methods and emerging therapeutic agents. Special emphasis is placed on the distinct clinical challenges faced by immunocompromised populations, including HIV-positive patients, transplant recipients, and pregnant women. By integrating real-world clinical reports with genomic data, this review underscores the necessity of precise identification for effective outbreak management. Ultimately, we highlight the importance of coordinated research and development (R&D) to refine vaccination strategies and antiviral treatments, ensuring a robust global response to the evolving threat of MPXV.

Abstract The Gut Microbiome influences Breast Cancer risk through Estrogen Metabolism, inflammation throughout the body, and Immune System Regulation. A decrease in the diversity of microbes will result in an imbalance of the gut microbiome (dysbiosis), which will support the increase of pro-inflammatory microbes, leading to elevated Circulating Estrogens and ultimately supporting greater Tumor Growth; conversely, some beneficial microbes (such as Lactobacillus) will help maintain hormonal equilibrium, reducing the likelihood of developing breast cancer. The combination of what we eat and how we eat (diet) has a significant impact on the types of bacteria that grow and multiply within our gut microbiome. Studies show that a diet rich in Fiber and Plant-Based foods supports the growth of short-chain fatty acids. SCFAs(bacteria, while diets that are high in Fat and Sugar contribute to an increased incidence of dysbiosis and systemic inflammation. Intervening to restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria has been proven to reduce Inflammation and improve health and wellness. Personalized Interventions based on the Gut Microbiome will have tremendous potential as an additional method for Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment.

Abstract Brown onion dry outer scales are among the most known sources of free quercetin. Quercetin is only present in other plant tissues in the form of glycosides. Use of antioxidants is a useful measure that will prevent the effects of photoaging of the skin. Quercetin is a natural occurring antioxidant which is essential in the defense of cells against oxidation and inflammation. Due to such characteristics, it has found considerable adoption in skincare products, nutraceutical supplements, and therapeutic uses in pharmaceutical products. The current paper was done to isolate quercetin in Allium cepa L. (alternative name: onion) of Amaryllidaceae family, prepare and test the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of quercetin topical cream. A procedure of quercetin extraction was expounded. The ethanol extract was prepared and the filtrate obtained dried. Quercetin extract was extracted using the emulsification technique and the extract was formulated into a cream and tested to determine the pH, viscosity, spreadability, stability, antioxidant and antimicrobial. The antioxidant ability of quercetin cream was measured using stable 2, 2 -Diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH). The disc diffusion method was used to ascertain the zone of inhibition of the formulated cream on the test organisms. These values were acceptable: pH 5.61+ -0.07 was chosen as good in topical use, viscosity of 16550 + -1.41 mPas (milliPascal second) was considered good, and excellent spreadability. The findings revealed that quercetin cream had high antioxidant property with an IC50 value of 0.004 and 92.3% ± 0.24 radical scavenging activity at a concentration of 0.1mM. Quercetin cream was also investigated in-vitro against four bacterial types in regard to antibacterial activity. It was also active against Staphylococcus aureus at varying concentrations but was not active against Bacillus cereus Escherchia coli, and Salmonella spp.Overall, the topical cream made of quercetin extract proved to have significant antioxidant activity and antibacterial activity, which has a promising future application as a component of cosmetic products, especially the anti-aging creams