bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WITHDRAWN: In-silico Screening of Novel Diterpene Derivatives for their Inhibitory Potentials against MurA Enzyme of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Chowdhury Abhishek , Laskar Monjur Ahmed , Choudhury Manabendra Dutta
Published: August 2023

Since the authors are not responding to the editor’s requests to fulfill the editorial requirement, therefore, the article has been
withdrawn.

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of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
Zinner Syndrome: Radiologic Diagnosis in a Rare Case
Authors: Bas Derya , Nalbant Mustafa Orhan
Published: August 2023

Background:

Zinner’s syndrome is a rare congenital malformation of the seminal vesicle and ipsilateral upper urinary tract caused by mesonephric duct
developmental anomaly during early embryogenesis. This study aimed to demonstrate the significance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in
distinguishing pelvic cysts in males, given that MRI is the gold standard exam for confirming the diagnosis and managing therapy.

Case Report:

A 21-year-old male patient with a solitary kidney who had been diagnosed since birth presented with abdominal pain. Transabdominal and
transrectal ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), and MRI were performed. The contrast-enhanced MRI of the pelvis showed a
tubular fluid-filled, macrolobulated lesion measuring 6 x 6 x 4 cm, mildly high signal intensity in the T2-weighted images, and slightly high signal
intensity in the T1-weighted images, without contrast enhancement. The left kidney was hypoplasic. Imaging findings led to the diagnosis of
Zinner’s syndrome, and conservative treatment was planned.

Discussion:

Zinner’s syndrome is characterized by a triad consisting of unilateral renal agenesis or hypoplasia, ipsilateral seminal vesicle cyst, and ipsilateral
ejaculatory duct obstruction. MRI is the modality of choice for an impeccable depiction of the anatomy of the male genital tract, for demonstrating
the seminal vesicles and evaluating anomalies of the mesonephric duct. It is also useful in distinguishing seminal vesicle cysts from other cystic
pelvic masses.

Conclusion:

Zinner’s syndrome should be considered when diagnosing cystic pelvic masses in males with renal agenesis or hypoplasia. Because of its high soft
tissue contrast resolution, MRI is the gold standard modality for confirming the diagnosis and assessing the cyst’s origin and contents.
LPBF process of Zn-modified NiTi alloy with enhanced antibacterial response
Authors: Biffi C.A.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. In this work the use of Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) process enabled the development of customized implants with advanced functional materials for the biomedical sector. In details, Ni rich NiTi Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) powder, mixed with Zn powder, were used for building samples, able to couple the typical superelasticity of the initial material with the antibacterial response, offered by the dopant element. The main parameters of the LPBF process were revised for achieving full dense parts. Further, the functional performances of the novel NiTiZn SMA were analyzed and compared with the ones of the reference material. Finally, the antibacterial response against different bacteria was tested. It was found a promising antibacterial response against Staphylococcus aureus of the NiTiZn SMA, while the addition of Zn into NiTi did not supress the martensitic transformation of the NiTi alloy and allowed to maintain the superelastic recovery.
Influence of the energy density on the Young modulus and fatigue strength of Inconel 718 produced by L-PBF
Authors: Abruzzo M.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. The present work analyses the influence of the energy density on the Young modulus and the fatigue strength of specimens obtained by Laser-Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) in Inconel 718. The specimen production and the process parameters taken as variables are described. The bulk and surface properties of the material are studied through static mechanical tests, surface roughness measurements, and fatigue tests. In addition, an approach based on ping tests and laser interferometry is proposed as a more efficient way to calculate the Young modulus of the specimens. The proposed method does not require any preparation of the specimens and allows for a quick and accurate evaluation of the material’s Young modulus. The results obtained highlight the influence of the process parameters on the Young modulus and the fatigue strength, suggesting a different usage of the material based on the productivity parameters adopted.
Ductility and linear energy density of Ti6Al4V parts produced with additive powder bed fusion technology
Authors: Buffa G.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. Hybrid metal forming processes involve the integration of commonly used sheet metal forming processes, as bending, deep drawing and incremental forming, with additive manufacturing processes as Powder Bed Fusion. In recent ybears, these integrations have been more developed for manufacturing sectors characterized by components with complex geometries in low numbers, as the aerospace sector. Hybrid additive manufacturing overcomes the typical limitations of additive manufacturing related to low productivity, metallurgical defects and low dimensional accuracy. In this perspective, a key aspect of hybrid processes is the production of parts characterized by high strength and ductility. In the present work, a study was carried out on the influence of process parameters, such as laser power and scanning speed, on material ductility for Ti6Al4V alloy samples produced by Selective Laser Melting. In particular, the material strength and ductility were related to the process linear energy density (LED).
Laser welding with and without filler wire of aluminum sheets produced by rolling and additive manufacturing for e-mobility applications
Authors: Ascari A.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. One of the most critical factors to be taken into consideration in laser welding of aluminum alloys is the formation of pores in the fused zone, which depends strictly on the semi-finishing format of the parent sheets. According to these considerations the present paper deals with welding of AA6082 sheets with additively manufactured AlSi10 ones in a configuration that is typical for the production of casings for batteries for the e-mobility field. In order to understand the role of process strategies on weld bead quality, both autogenous welding and welding with filler wire are investigated and the eventual benefits of applying a wobbling beam shaping is also considered. For any of the above-mentioned strategies, the role of process parameters, such as laser power, welding speed, filler wire speed and wobbling, is underlined, with particular reference to the formation of pores and defects.
The ranking-aggregation problem in manufacturing: potential, pitfalls, and good practices
Authors: Franceschini F.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. A number of experts, who individually rank a set of objects based on a certain attribute, and the need to aggregate the resulting (subjective) rankings into a collective judgement: these are the “ingredients” of the ranking-aggregation problem, which is typical of social choice, psychometrics and economics. This paper shows that the problem has many interesting applications even in manufacturing and must be approached with care, in order to avoid misleading results. Through a real-world case study concerning cobot-assisted manual (dis)assembly, the paper illustrates (i) a methodology to tackle the problem in a practical and effective way and (ii) various useful tools (e.g., for estimating the degree of concordance among experts, the consistency and robustness of collective judgment, etc.). The article is addressed to scientists and practitioners in the manufacturing field.
Comparison between two tailored press hardening technologies by means of physical and numerical simulation
Authors: Palmieri M.E.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. Tailored Tool Tempering (TTT) and Intermediate Pre-Cooling techniques are two tailored press hardening technologies studied for automotive applications to obtain structural components with good energy absorption characteristics and high strength. The aim of this work is the comparison between these two tailored technologies in terms of mechanical properties on the part. An automotive B-Pillar in 22MnB5 steel was considered as case study. Two Finite Element (FE) models were developed for simulating both technologies. FE thermal cycles were experimentally reproduced on specimens using a Gleeble physical simulator. After physical simulation, metallographic, tensile and hardness tests were carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties. Optimal values of process parameters that guarantee ductile and resistant zones on the same component were detected. In these optimal conditions, the TTT technology guarantees greater fracture deformability in the component zone which is to absorb energy.
RISKY BEHAVIOURS AMONG DELIVERY RIDERS AT SIGNALIZED INTERSECTIONS IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Malik Munirah , Rusli Rusdi , Mohd Nusa Fatin Najwa , Adinegoro Yusuf
Published: August 2023

The increasing number of food delivery riders, known as P-hailing riders, has increased the number of traffic crashes involving this group. The high demand for online orders and delivery time constraints causes the delivery riders to engage in risky riding behaviours during delivery. Thus, there is a need to study this alarming problem before it becomes more serious. This study aims to determine factors influencing risky behaviours among delivery riders at signalized intersections. A roadside observation was conducted in the month of October 2022 at Subang Jaya, Selangor. A total of 19,803 delivery riders were observed for four days observations at two signalized T- and two cross-signalized intersections. A bivariate analysis (logistic regression) was applied to determine the relationship between seven risky behaviours (unfastened helmet, not wearing shoes, incomplete set of side mirrors, red light running, mobile phone use, stopping after stop lines, and abrupt lane change) with five explanatory variables including the day of the week, time of the day, weather condition, type of intersection and approach road. The result shows that red light running, and mobile phone use is more likely to occur during the weekend. Clear weather increases risky behaviours such as red light running, using a mobile phone, and abrupt lane changes. The findings of this study are useful as input to the related authorities in developing programs to decrease the number of crashes involving food delivery riders.
ROAD ACCESSIBILITY AND SAFETY ANALYSIS IN GATED AND NON-GATED HOUSING COMMUNITIES
Authors: Adnan Nor Aizam , Mahadzir Zarith ‘Aqilah , Hashim Hasranizam , Mohd Yusoff Zaharah , Abdul Rasam Abdul Rauf , Mokhtar Ernieza Suhana
Published: August 2023

The relationship between crime and the built environment has been extensively investigated in the field of urban design and planning. Gated housing area refers to a physical personal area with limited access and is governed by special rules, restricting or controlling access to and outside of the homeowner (via electronic devices or with the safety of workers). Therefore, gated housing communities are assumed to be safer than non-gated housing communities in relation to crime occurrence with limited road point accessibility which is deemed reliable to prevent undesirable property crime. The purpose of this research is to analyse the property crime incidents in gated and non-gated housing communities of Subang Jaya, Selangor with regards to road accessibility points. Three years of crime surveillance data from 2014 to 2016 was obtained from the Royal Malaysian Police Department. Findings indicated that crime incident is less at the gated community as compared to non-gated with the most of the hot spot area are located at the multiple road points access such as Subang Perdana Good Year Court 7 and few USJ, Subang Jaya housing areas and also the residential area which located nearest to the above stated locations as opposed to the gated housing community.
THE STRATEGIC HGVS PLANNING PRACTICES FOR SUSTAINABLE GREEN LOGISTICS IMPLEMENTATION
Authors: Tarudin Nur Farizan , Adlan Muhammad Akmal Asyraaf , Md Hanafiah Rudiah , Mohd Nusa Fatin Najwa , Mohd Yusoff Zaharah
Published: August 2023

The Malaysian government is introducing a number of initiatives to try and reduce the effects of global warming. One of these is the road haulage industry, which contributes significantly as one of Malaysia's largest industries to the nation's effort to reduce its transportation emissions to 45% by 2030. However, the empty movement of trucks and improper transport planning by the management caused some delivery trucks to come back to the headquarters empty and did not fully utilise the space of the vehicles. Therefore, the researchers aimed to propose heavy goods vehicle (HGV) planning practice to solve the problems. This is a mixed-mode research paper in which data was gathered through interviews and estimated calculations. The data has been analysed by comparing the result of the simple estimation calculation with the operational cost and carbon emission. Based on the results, most of them agreed that by using the right strategy, operational costs and carbon emissions can be reduced. The researchers had introduced a few recommendations to enhance the firm’s transport planning practices that could contribute to the field of green logistics as well as the road haulage industry in Malaysia.
SOCIAL CARRYING CAPACITY AS A PLANNING TOOL FOR SUSTAINABLE TOURISM: A CASE OF PANGKOR ISLAND, PERAK, MALAYSIA
Authors: Yusoh Mohamad Pirdaus , Abdul Latip Normah , Hanafi Nurhazliyana , Hua Ang Kean , Zakaria Zulayti , Mohamad Ridzuan Mohamad Ikhram
Published: August 2023

Tourism can drive economic growth and development in destinations, but unchecked growth can have negative impacts on local communities and the environment. To ensure that tourism is sustainable and does not cause harm, social carrying capacity (SCC) has become a useful planning tool. SCC refers to the maximum number of tourists that a destination can accommodate without exceeding the capacity of local resources, infrastructure, and services. This study aims to identify the level of crowding on public holidays at Pangkor Island and the acceptance levels of tourists and the local community regarding tourism. A quantitative methodology was used, involving 96 international tourists, 332 domestic tourists, and 387 members of the local community. The results indicate that the level of crowding on public holidays at Pangkor Island is still within acceptable limits. The barometer showed that international tourist respondents rated the level of crowding as excellent (green colour), while domestic tourist respondents rated it as acceptable (yellow colour). Local community respondents also rated the level of crowding as high but still acceptable (green colour). This study concludes that the Social Carrying Capacity at Pangkor Island is still good, and it is important to maintain it to achieve sustainable tourism. By managing tourism growth and ensuring that the number of tourists does not exceed the SCC, destinations can reap the economic benefits of tourism while preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the area and protecting the well-being of the local community.
GIS AND OIL SPILL TRACKING MODEL IN FORECASTING POTENTIAL OIL SPILL-AFFECTED AREAS ALONG TERENGGANU AND PAHANG COASTAL AREA
Authors: Zakaria Yaniza Shaira , Ahmad Azizul , Said Mohd Zulhafiz , Epa Ailis Elizabeth , Ariffin Nur Afiqah , M. Muslim Aidy , Akhir Mohd Fadzil , Hussin Rosazman
Published: August 2023

Oil contamination can occur accidentally or incidentally in the environment as long as petroleum or shipping activities exist. There is a need to take appropriate preventive measures to reduce the negative impact by carefully monitoring the sprinkles and dispersion particles due to the oil spill movement. An expected oil spill originating from the Resak platform is positioned at 49.1 nautical miles from the Kuala Terengganu shoreline. The Dulang platform, positioned at 69.8 nautical miles from the Kuala Terengganu, can pollute the coastline of the Terengganu and Pahang ecosystems. This study aims; (i) make predictions from the direction of oil particle dispersion and; (ii) engage the ecosystem to determine the effect of an oil spill on a platform around the coastal area. The combination of the Geographic Information System (GIS) and the Oil Spill Trajectory Model (OSTM) has been used to establish the appropriate response to locate the dense area of the slick. The result from the model running show in Northeast (NE) monsoon season, Terengganu and Pahang, have a high potential to affect. It is highly likely to reach the Terengganu coast area, especially in Dungun. It was predicted that 466 barrels of oil would arrive within four days of the December incident. Moreover, Kemaman and Pekan districts in Pahang also have the highest risk of being exposed to oil pollution during the Northeast Monsoon. This is due to the wind factors, which blow from South to North along the East coast of Malaysia Peninsular with a speed maximum of 13 ms-1 and indirectly carry the oil particles to coastal areas in Terengganu and Pahang.
Secondary Findings of Newborn Screening
Authors: Alharbi Hana , He Miao
Published: August 2023

The aim of newborn screening (NBS) program is to detect and manage treatable conditions in the early stages prior to the occurrence of long-term and irreversible sequalae. Phenylketonuria was the first screened disorder, but panels rapidly expanded after the introduction of tandem mass spectrometry technology into the program. Significant differences in the diseases screened by NBS were noted between programs in United States. Therefore, the recommended uniform screening panel was developed in 2006 to include a list of core disorders of NBS panels based on specific scoring system. Screening for these disorders may lead to incidental detection of secondary conditions. Identification of these conditions could be challenging due to unavailability of confirmatory testing, effective therapies and/or unclear natural history. In this review, we discuss several secondary findings of NBS and their associated disorders as well as the potential risk and benefits of their early diagnosis.
The role of vermicompost on yield and alkaloid concentration of
fenugreek
Authors: S. Al-Hadithi Ghana , A. Al-Saady Hassan A. , Faleh Nebrass
Published: August 2023

The current study was conducted to investigate the effect of different
levels of vermicompost (0, 6, 12 and 18 g.pot-1
), peat-moss (12mg.pot-1
) and DiAmmonium Phosphate (DAP) (1g.pot-1
) on some yield components (length, No.
and weight of pods and No. and weight of seeds) and alkaloids concentration in
seed of fenugreek according to the complete randomized design with six replicates. The study was achieved by using high-performance liquated chromatography (HPLC) technology. The analysis of HPLC data shows that the four alkaloids (choline, trigonelline, carpaine and gentianine) have been separated and
purified. The result showed a significant difference between different fertilizer
levels on yield components and alkaloid concentration, and treatment 12g.pot-1
gives a high value of the studied characteristics mentioned above. Also, results
showed that seeds are rich in trigonelline.
Keywords: alkaloids, vermicompost, trigonelline and fenugreek
Evaluation of the Antibacterial Effect of the Prepared Graphene
Oxide Nanosheets
Authors: Bakir Al-Hilli Zina
Published: August 2023

Because of its exceptional chemical, physical, and biological features,
graphene oxide (GO) has gained great attention. The Simplified Hammer's method
was used in this study to synthesize GO nanosheets, which were then characterized
by UV-Vis, SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, and XRD analysis. GO's UV-Vis peak of
absorption was at 230 nm. A peak of diffraction at 2θ= 10.75° was found in the
XRD examination, equivalent to around 0.82 nm spacing among layers. In the
FTIR spectra, characteristic peaks associated with oxygen functional groups of GO
were identified. In SEM pictures, GO is made up of crumpled thin nanosheets. The
diffusion in agar well procedure was applied to investigate the effect of as-prepared
GO nanosheets against gram-negative "Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella
typhi" and gram-positive "Enterococcus sp., Kocuria sp." Different concentrations
of GO demonstrated potent antibacterial activity, with higher efficacy against
gram-positive bacteria.
Keywords: Graphene Oxide, Nanosheets, Antibacterial effect, XRD, SEM, FTIR.
Synergistic Treatment of Candida albicans Infected Mice by AgNPs
Synthesis Penicillium chrysogenum
Authors: Naeem Jasim Noor , A. Al-humairi Rasha M. , Hashim Mohammad Teeba , A. Hussein Ruwaida
Published: August 2023

Penicillium chrysogenum has been used for the production of metal
nanoparticles. It was experimentally shown that silver nitrate ions are reduced to
silver nanoparticles in biomass, and silver nanoparticles are synthesized from 1
mM silver nitrate. The external morphology of ground AgNPs was established by
SEM analysis and UV-visible spectrophotometry, and the size of AgNO3 particles was observed to be 23 nm, with particles being spherical by AFM. In vitro
investigations, the antifungal susceptibility of Candida al was calculated, and the
results showed that the inhibitory effect of AgNPs synthesized with P. chrysogenum is increased with increasing the concentration of nanoparticles, and the effective fungicidal concentration (EC50) was 1 ppm, and the minimum fungicidal
concentration (MFC) was 100 ppm. Furthermore, the pathogenicity of C. albicans on kidneys in mice during infections was tested and thus indicated that the
kidneys' ability was significantly enhanced when animals were treated with the
combination of AgNPs and P. chrysogenum. This study's data from examination
provide valuable preliminary statistics for using biosynthesized silver nanoparticles to manage various microorganisms.
Keywords: Candida albicans, AgNPs Synthesis, Penicillium chrysogenum
The Impact of Diabetic Disease on Health-Related Quality of Life in
Type 2 Diabetic Patients Karbala. Iraq: Across sectional study
Authors: Jassim Mahan Sammar , Mahmood Mahammad Mohammed , Mutrtadha Hassan Hassan
Published: August 2023

The present study aimed to assess the health-related quality of life of a
group of Iraqi diabetics in Karbala and investigate the sociodemographic and
disease-related factors that influence it. The present study included 200 Iraqi patients with type 2 diabetes who visited the Endocrinology Center/Al-Huja Hospital
in Karbala between November 2020 and December 2021. A control group of 120
healthy people was also included. The Arabic version of the Short Form 8 was used
to assess the medical quality of life. The measure used a 5-point Likert scale with
responses ranging from 1 to 5. Each domain is scaled oppositely, so a more excellent score reflects a worse quality of life rating. In general, diabetes impacted
the HRQoL of diabetic patients at a very significant level, with median scores for
all HRQoL domains being significantly higher in patients than in controls
(P<0.001). Obesity, education level, monthly income and glycemic control are all
affected overall. Glycemic control is the most potent variable influencing the total
domains of HRQOL. In conclusion, Type 2DM showed significantly lower
health-related quality of life in various domains than healthy control subjects.
Glycemic control is the most potent variable influencing all domains of HRQoL.
Keywords: Health-Related Quality of Life; type 2 DM; Short Form.
Evaluation of the effects of Curcumin gel against Periodontopathic
Bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis) using real-time
time-polymerase chain reaction technology
Authors: Abd Al-Hassan Shahad , Sh Mahmood Maha
Published: August 2023

Periodontal disease is typically treated with mechanical debridement of the tooth surface. It may, however, be insufficient to eradicate pathogenic microorganisms on its own. Because of the microbial etiology of periodontitis,
systemic or local antibiotic therapy is used as an adjunct treatment. The present
study aimed to determine the effects of curcumin gel on Porphyromonas gingivalis. Eleven patients with stage II and III periodontitis were registered in the
study. A double-blinded split-mouth design followed. Periodontal pockets were
distributed into 2 groups; the test group received scaling and root planing along
with curcumin gel, while the control group received scaling and root planing
along with a placebo gel. Plaque index, probing pocket depth and relative attachment level were recorded with the collection of subgingival plaque samples
at different time intervals for bacterial analysis using real-time time-polymerase
chain reaction. Results showed a significant reduction in the bacterial outcomes
in the test group. There was a significant improvement in the Plaque index, probing pocket depth and relative attachment level in the test group compared to the
control group. On intra-group comparison, both groups showed a significant reduction of Plaque index and probing pocket depth with a more significant reduction in the test group, and only the test group showed a significant reduction of
relative attachment level. A strong positive correlation of P.gingivalis with probing pocket depth and relative attachment level in the test group was estimated.
Curcumin gel has an antibacterial effect against Porphyromonas gingivalis and
showed a potent improvement in the outcomes of the periodontal parameters.
Keywords: Curcumin gel, periodontal pocket, Porphyromonas gingivalis
The role of ferric citrate in a sample of Iraqi patients on hemodialysis- A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Jassem Reyadh , Al-Hamadani Fadya , Fakhri Al-Tukmag Haydar , Hamza Al_mensory Saad John
Published: August 2023

Background: Uncontrolled hyperphosphatemia is the main difficulty facing staff treating patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis. Sevelamer and calcium-containing phosphate binders have been associated with cost burden and tissue calcification, respectively. Therefore, the current trial was targeted to investigate the efficacy of a new phosphate binder, ferric citrate, in a sample of Iraqi patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis. Keywords: Ferric citrate, Hemodialysis Phosphate binder
The Effect of Food Type on the Anatomical and Histological Structure of the Canary (Serinus canaria) and White-eared Bulbul (Pycnonotus leucotis) Small Intestine
Authors: Hameed Hassan Shaimaa , Mhalhal Thaer R. , Faisal Majeed Majdy
Published: August 2023

Objective: A comparative study of the histomorphological structure of
the wall of the small intestine of the canary (Serinus canaria) and white-eared
bulbul (Pycnonotus leucotis). Methodology: Five healthy birds from the canary
and white-eared bulbul. All birds were euthanized and dissected, and histological
staining procedures were used on the specimens. Result: Bulbul's intestine
length-to-body length and intestinal weight-to-body weight ratios were higher
than a canary's. According to morphological studies, the small intestine is divided
into three sections (duodenum, jejunum, and ileum). The duodenum was the same
in both birds. The jejunum of bulbul is structured into short and wide segments
that run caudally, and in canary, it forms a cone-shaped mass with outer centripetal and inner centrifugal turns, and the ileum is short in both birds. Histologically,
the small intestine was lined by simple columnar cells and goblet cells. At the
same time, the muscular mucosa of the duodenum is made up of two thick layers
of smooth muscle that are divided into inner circular and outer longitudinal bundles; the submucosa was a loose connective tissue layer that was thick, tunica serosa appeared as a thin layer of loose connective tissue on the areolar surface.
Keywords: canary, white-eared bulbul, small intestine, morphology, histology.
Study the Gene Expression of bla-IMP and bla-VIM Genes In
Meropenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated from Urinary
Tract Infections
Authors: Tariq Hamad Shahad , Kassim Ghaima Kais
Published: August 2023

Background: The emergence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, especially Klebsiella pneumoniae, which causes infection associated with
multidrug-resistant strains, is a primary clinical and public health concern. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the expression level of bla-IMP and bla-VIM
genes in the presence and absence of meropenem antibiotics. Methods: Eighty K.
pneumoniae isolates were obtained from 250 urine samples collected from patients in Baghdad Hospitals, Iraq, from November 2020 to March 2021. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were measured for the isolates by microdilution method. Real-time PCR detected the presence of bla-IMP and bla-VIM
resistance genes. The blah-IMP and bla-VIM gene expression levels were measured by real-time PCR in the presence and absence of meropenem antibiotics.
Results: The results of this study showed that the higher expression level of blaIMP and bla-VIM increased in resistant strains in the presence of meropenem,
where the range of fold for gene expression of bla-VIM was 1.3 to 8.3, while for
bla-IMP gene was 1.5 to 8.4. Conclusion: In conclusion, the overuse of meropenem and imipenem antibiotics in the treatment of K. pneumoniae may lead to
an increase in the resistance of this species to carbapenems and cephalosporins,
and There was a correlation between the meropenem resistance in K. pneumoniae
isolates and the gene expression of the tow genes bla-IMP and bla-VIM
Keywords: Carbapenem Resistance, Klebsiella pneumoniae, bla-IMP, bla-VIM,
Gene expression, UTI.
Association the allelic variation and SNP rs12917707 genotyping
with UMOD serum level among Iraqi patients infected with uropathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Ghafer Asmaa , M. Ghareeb Abdulameer , M. Al-Faisal Abdul Hussain
Published: August 2023

: The current study included 90 samples collected and divided into (45)
Urinary tract infections of E. coli patients and (45) controls with different ages of
both genders. Patient samples were collected from UTI patients admitted to ALYarmouk Teaching Hospital, AL-Karama Teaching Hospital and Al Kidney
Teaching Hospital from November 2020 to March 2021. The current study measured Tamm Horsfall protein (THP) concentration in patients with Urinary tract
infections and healthy groups. The study also included the Relationship of Umod
rs12917707 genotype and Uromodulin level in patients and control using Nested
T-ARMS PCR. Our study had two objectives: First, to address whether urinary
uromodulin concentration is associated with urinary tract infection with E. coli in
a community-based study, and second, to determine whether a single-nucleotide
polymorphism (SNP) in the UMOD region, rs12917707, is associated with urinary uromodulin concentrations. After statistical analysis, the results showed that
there could be an association between having mutant homozygous GG polymorphism in the UMOD gene and having UTI of E. coli. At the same time, the mutant homozygous TT represents a risk factor compared to other genotypes (ORs:
0.4, 95% CI (0.17 - 0.93 and ORs: 4.4, 95% CI (1.47-13.26) respectively. The results also showed a significant decrease at P≤0.01 in the patients group with Urinary tract infection (1.38 ± 0.03) Ng/ml compared with the control sample, which
was (1.83 ± 0.04) Ng/ml.
Keywords: urinary tract infection, UPEC, UMOD-promoter region, SNPs, Nested T-ARMS PCR
Effect of foliar fertilization (FULARTAL) on the growth and yield of
three wheat cultivars
Authors: Katran Hassan Raghad , Abdul-Nabi Rasha Adel , Aqil Hassan Zahraa
Published: August 2023

: A field experiment was carried out in the Experimental Field of Field
Crops Department of the College of Agriculture - University of Baghdad during
the winter of 2019-2020. To study the effect of foliar fertilization (FULARTAL)
on the growth and yield of three wheat cultivars. A factorial experiment was applied by designing complete randomized plots with three replications. The first
factor included cultivars (Abu-Ghraib, Fateh, Sham 6) symbolized by (F1, F2,
F3); the second factor included three levels of fertilizer (0, 2, 4) l ha-1
, and the
following symbols were taken (M0, M1, M2). The results showed there were significant differences between the levels of factors in the studied traits. There was a
significant difference between cultivars, as Abu-Ghraib (F1) outperformed in
some features, including plant height, tillers number, and spikes number by giving the highest averages at (107.77 cm, 434.00 spikes. m2
and 383.88 spikes. m2
).
Sham 6 cultivar (F3) showed the highest average in the flag leaf area, spike
length, and the number of days from planting until 50% of flowering appeared
(37.11 cm2
, 9.55 cm and 110.33 days). The concentration of 4 l ha-1
(M2) gave the
highest average in the trait: plant height, tillers number, flag leaf area, spike
length, and spikes number, reaching (109.89 cm, 430.89 tillers. m², 36.11 cm²,
9.41 cm and 382.44 spikes m2
). The concentration of 2 l ha-1
(M1) gave the least
days from planting until 50% of flowering appeared (107.89 days).
Keywords: FULARTAL fertilizer; wheat; growth and yield characteristics; foliar
fertilizers.
Effect of Streptozocin on the Langerhans Islands in the pancreas of birds
Authors: Jassim Abd Sarah , Abood Faris Satar
Published: August 2023

In the current study, birds (Columba livia ) were used as a new model to study the effect of streptozotocin on the pancreas gland and the blood glucose level. Three concentrations of 75,65,55 mg/kg were adopted for five consecutive days with one IP dose daily. The experimental animals showed a gradual rise in blood glucose the average glucose in the first week of the experiment was usual for the three groups compared with the control group, while there was a significant change in the blood glucose level in the three groups at the end of the experiment (4th week), where the average glucose in the streptozotocin groups was 55 mg/kg (213.80 ± 12.43) mg/dl and the group 65 mg/kg(282.60 ± 16.78) mg/dl and a group of 75 mg/kg( 371.0 ± 38.39) mg/dl. Keywords: Streptozocin, Langerhans islands, pancreas.
Comparative Histomorphological Study of Spleen in Goat, Sheep,
Cow and Buffalo
Authors: S. Ghaji Mustafa , J. Mohammed Yasmeen , Mhalhal Thaer R. , Mohammed Yasmeen J. , Mhalhal Thaer R.
Published: August 2023

Immunity in some animals, such as goats, stands for unique properties
by which they withstand unpleasant environments. Spleen influences animals'
immunity through its hematopoietic and immunological roles. Because of that,
we emphasized the average morphological and histological properties of the
Goat, Sheep, Cow and Buffalo spleen. We randomly collected three spleens for
every species from healthy slaughtered Goats, Sheep, Cows and Buffalo. All the
animals were adult and weighed about 71, 80, 400 and 500 grams, respectively.
Histological cutting was followed according to the paraffin method; then, the
samples were ready for microscopic exam. The structure results revealed that the
spleen of animals is supported externally by a thick fibromuscular connective tissue capsule, which vascularizes by subcapsular sinus. Stromal trabeculae emerge
from the capsule, entering the splenic parenchyma. The parenchyma of animals'
spleen differentiates into white pulp, which organizes into the periarterial lymphatic sheath along with lymph nodules, red pulp ropes in splenic sinuses among
splenic cords, and marginal zone in which macrophage occupies excellent importance. This study concluded that the amount of smooth muscle in the spleen
septa in goats was more than in the rest of the experimental animals.
Keywords: Histomorphology; Spleen; Goat; Sheep; Cow; Buffalo
Polymerization of sunflower oil with adipic acid using Catalyst at
different temperatures
Authors: Kadouri Safa fakhri , Adrees Atiya Ali Ghalib , Muniem Abbas Karim Abdul
Published: August 2023

The polymers that have been prepared include the following:
Poly(glyceride-ALT-adipate), which symbolizes it, has been prepared in two
steps: The first step: Prepare the monomer from the reaction of glycerin with sunflower oil (glyceride reaction) in the presence of catalysts (pbO2) at a temperature of 150 and using the Electrical Stirrer for 5 hours. The second step: This step
includes the polymerization process (condensation) in order to prepare (Alkyd
Resin), where the monomer (Monoglyceride) is prepared by reacting with (Adipic acid) at different temperatures starting from (150 to 240 with a difference of 10
℃ between one reaction and another using an electronic thermometer to control
the temperature and with continuous stirring using a magnet bar and in the presence of nitrogen gas (inert atmosphere). The reaction kinetics is also calculated,
which includes two processes. The first process, the kinetics of the reaction, is
made by tracking the decrease in the concentration of acid value, which is made
by the polymerization process.
Keywords: sunflower oil, adipic acid, PbO2 Catalyst.
Gene expression of a nitrogen tolerance gene ZmNR1 under the influence of different levels of nitrogen in maize
Authors: I. okab Sara , A. Abed Ziyad
Published: August 2023

A field experiment was carried out in the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences - University of Baghdad, during the fall season of 2021 to find
out which cultivated cultivars of maize are efficient under nitrogen fertilization.
The experiment was applied according to an RCBD (split-plot design with three
replications). The cultivars of the experiment (Baghdad, 5018, Sarah) supply
three levels of nitrogen fertilizer, which are N1 (100 kg.N/ha), N2 (200 kg.N/ha)
and N3 (300 kg.N/ha). The statistical analysis results showed the superiority of
the Sarah genotype, which gave the highest value of SOD and CAT enzymes,
reaching 11.59 units mg-1 and 10.76 units mg-1
. Protein sequentially, while cultivar5018 outperformed as it gave the highest value of POD enzyme, which was
5.43 units mg-1.protein, and there were no significant differences between genotypes in NR enzyme. The increase in nitrogen fertilizer caused an increase in the
values of oxidation and reduction enzymes, as the nitrogen level N3 gave the
highest value for SOD, POD, CAT and nitrate reduction enzymes NR, reaching
11.59 mg-1
and 6.94 mg-1
units. Protein and 16.40 mg-1 units. Protein and 6.30
mg-1 units. Protein sequentially. The results of the molecular analysis using the
Real-Time PCR technique showed the expression of the ZmNR1 gene. The analysis showed that the cultivated genotypes contained the gene in varying proportions as the gene expression increased in the compositions to which the nitrogen
fertilizer was added. The value ranged from (0.16) to (49.46) times (a copy of the
gene), where the highest expression of the gene was (49.46) for the Sarah cultivar
when The nitrogen level N2 also gave the same gene expression ZmNR1 (15.01)
folds. The cultivars of maize varied among them in their tolerance to excess or
deficiency of nitrogen and in their ability to express the ZmNR1 gene, one of the
most important nitrogen-carrying genes for maize crops.
Keywords: maize, gene expression, nitrate reductase, antioxidant enzymes
Antibacterial and anticancer activities of (free and immobilized)
elastase produced by Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: N. K. Makassees Jawad , H. Zaki Neihaya , A. Hussein Asmaa,
Published: August 2023

Elastase is a type of protease that degrades explicitly elastin. The elastase produced by Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates was purified by three steps:
ammonium sulfate precipitation, ion-exchange chromatography, and Sephadex
G-150 chromatography. The optimal condition for elastase production showed
high specific activity with starch (3.8 U/mg protein) and casein as a nitrogen
source with a specific activity reaching (3.3 U/mg protein). The maximum elastase production was obtained when the pH value was (7.5) with specific activity
(4.4 U/mg protein). Elastase (free and immobilized on TiO2- NPs) was used in
application as antibacterial and anticancer, and results showed high antibacterial
activity against pathogenic isolates, especially Lactobacillus acidophilus and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa were affected by immobilized elastase. Free and immobilized elastase have anticancer activity against lung cancer using the A549
cell line, and immobilized elastase had the potent cytotoxic effect on A549 cells
with IC50 142.8 µg/ ml compared with IC50 of normal cell line HdFn on 655.0
µg /ml.
Key Words: Klebsiella pneumoniae, Elastase, Immobilization, TiO2-Nps- Antibacterial, Anticancer.
Assessment of active constituents and total flavonoids of Ammi majus
plant extracts on immunological and kidney protective activities in
mice
Authors: T.O.Al-Jumaili Farah , Hamid Maysaa , S. Abed Ashwaq
Published: August 2023

The Ammi majus (Kella) plant is frequently used to cure various health
issues. This study aimed to investigate the most important phytochemical compounds of Kella seeds and evaluate the effect of its aqueous and alcoholic extracts on CCl4-induced nephrotoxicity in mice using a count of white blood cells
(WBC) test and some biochemical markers for renal functions besides the histopathological study of kidney tissue. According to secondary metabolite analysis,
the seeds contained tannins, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, and polyphenols at
varying levels depending on the solvent utilized. Regarding total flavonoids, the
alcoholic extract showed the highest concentration (193.2±25.7 mg/g) compared
to the aqueous extract (176.3±19.2 mg/g). The WBC count test in the in vivo
study showed an improved immune system by increasing the number of WBCs in
mice treated with plant extracts and reducing the toxic effects of the CCl4 compound compared with a negative control group. In the positive control group
(treated mice with CCl4), the biochemical analysis and histological study of the
kidney sections revealed that CCl4 causes nephrotoxicity through increasing urea
and creatinine concentrations in the blood and lowering total protein content, as
well as the formation of necrotic tissue in the kidney sections.
In contrast, these markers decreased in groups of mice treated with plant extracts,
particularly alcoholic extract. In conclusion, the A. majus plant can improve kidney function during CCl4 doses. Consequently, it could be a promising treatment
for nephrotoxicity caused by certain drugs.
Keywords: Ammi majus; kidney markers; nephrotoxicity
Photo Stabilizing Efficiency Of Poly(methyl methacrylate) Based On Metal Ion Complexes Of Saccharine
Authors: Sabah Al-Obaidi Noor , Ahmed Ahmed A. , N. Abd Ahmed
Published: August 2023

The photostabilization of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) films having saccharine complexes of Zn(II), Cd(II), Hg(II), Fe(III), Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes was investigated. The production of PMMA films containing such complexes (0.5% by weight) was carried out by the casting method using THF. The photostabilization activities of the compounds were determined by monitoring the carbonyl and hydroxyl index with irradiation time. Evaluation of stabilizing efficiency of PMMA by ultra-violet spectroscopy to investigate photodecomposition rate constant (kd) for PMMA films in the absence and presence of saccharine complexes. The changes in the viscosity average molecular weight of PMMA with irradiation time were evaluated. The rate of photostabilization for PMMA in the presence of the additives was found to follow the order Ni(sac) > Cu(sac) > Zn(sac) > Cd(sac) > Hg(sac) > Fe(sac). Depending on the structure of the additive, such as a peroxide decomposer, UV absorption or a radical scavenger for the photostabilizer. Keywords: Photodegradation, UV stabilizers, PMMA, Saccharine.
The Effect of HNF1A Gene Polymorphism on the Risk of Polycystic Ovary
Syndrome in a Sample of Iraqi Women
Authors: Ahmed Toama Elham , Ahmed Jasim Hamssa
Published: August 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of female
infertility. Clinical features caused by high levels of androgens, oligomenorrhea,
and polycystic ovarian morphology are necessary for diagnosis. This study aims
to find a relationship between the genetic polymorphism of HNF1A and the risk
of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in a Sample of Iraqi Women. The study includes
one hundred subjects of Iraqi women in Baghdad (15-35 years); patients were divided into three groups. The first group included Patients treated with metformin,
the second group included Patients without metformin, and the third group included healthy. DNA was extracted, then the Genotyping polymorphism
(rs1169288) of the HNF1A gene was done by RT-PCR. The AA genotype
showed a higher frequency in control (p=0.001), while the CC genotype showed
a higher frequency in the patients (p= 0.0001).
Keywords: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), genetic polymorphism, HNF1A
protein, Glucose and lipid profile.
Transcription Factor 7- Like -2 (TCF7L2) rs7903146 (C/T) polymorphism in
Iraqi patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Adnan Abd Haneen , Fadel Al- Jumaili Essam
Published: August 2023

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disorder that develops as different cell
groups resist insulin action on peripheral tissues. Eventually, the pancreas cannot
produce sufficient insulin to overcome this resistance, resulting in insulin deficiency. The transcription factor 7-like-2 gene (TCF7L2) rs7903146 (C/T) polymorphism is one of the most susceptible genes to T2DM discovered to date, with
the contribution to the disease through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway affecting pancreatic islet development. To investigate and analyze the correlation
of TCF7L2 gene polymorphisms and their association with type 2 diabetes for
Iraqi patients. This study included 80 blood samples equally divided into two
groups: patients with T2DM and normal healthy controls. All Genotypes of
rs7903146 (C/T) SNP in theTCF7L2 gene were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction via TaqMan allelic discrimination. Analysis of the distribution
of the TCF7L2 rs7903146 genotype and allele revealed that the TT genotype was
more frequent in the T2DM group (32.5%) than in healthy controls (12.5%) (OR
= 5.9, 95% confidence interval (CI = 1.6–20.6, p = 0.05). The T allele was more
frequent in diabetic patients (52.5%) than healthy control (25%), and it was associated with high risk of diabetes (odd ratio = 3.3, 95% CI= 1.6- 6.4), P=0.0005.
Conclusion: The T allele of rs7903146 polymorphism of TCF7L2 confers susceptibility to the development of T2DM in the Iraqi population.
Keywords: Type 2 diabetes mellitus · Transcription factor 7-like-2 ·rs7903146
polymorphism