Effect of Vitamin D3 Levels on Varicella-Zoster Virus Infection and IFN-Gamma Expression in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study in Iraq

Background: This study aimed to explore the correlation between Vitamin D3 levels and IFN-Gamma expression in children residing in the southern and central provinces of Iraq. Vitamin D3 plays a pivotal role in immune function, and IFN-Gamma is a crucial cytokine involved in antiviral defense. Investigating the connection between Vitamin D3 and IFN-Gamma offers valuable insights into immune responses and potential implications for infectious diseases. Methods: A case-control study was conducted, involving children from various schools and kindergartens in the southern and central provinces of Iraq. The study assessed Vitamin D3 levels and measured IFN-Gamma expression. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the relationship between these variables. Results: The outcomes revealed a significant positive correlation between Vitamin D3 levels and IFN-Gamma expression within the study population (p < 0.05). Children with higher Vitamin D3 levels exhibited elevated IFN-Gamma expression, suggesting a possible immunomodulatory impact of Vitamin D3 on IFN-Gamma production. Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of maintaining adequate Vitamin D3 levels to support immune function, particularly in relation to IFN-Gamma expression. Improving Vitamin D3 status could potentially bolster antiviral defense mechanisms and reduce susceptibility to viral infections among children in the southern and central provinces of Iraq. Further investigation is warranted to delve into the underlying mechanisms and potential clinical ramifications of this significant association. Additionally, exploring the long-term effects of maintaining optimal Vitamin D3 levels on immune function and the outcomes of infectious diseases in this population would offer valuable insights for preventive and therapeutic strategies

Effect of COVID-19 Vaccines on Hair Loss

Aims: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the global distribution of vaccines, but there are concerns regarding potential side effects. Hair loss is one of the less commonly reported side effects. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of COVID-19 vaccinations on hair loss. Instruments & Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 580 participants aged between 20 to 72 years, consisting of 270 males and 310 females. Machine learning techniques were employed to analyze the data and determine any potential relationship between COVID-19 vaccines and hair loss. A logistic regression analysis was used to assess the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for hair loss. Findings: Of the total participants, 17.6% reported experiencing hair loss after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. This percentage was higher in females (19.4%) compared to the males (15.2%). There was a significant association between the COVID-19 vaccine and hair loss in both males and females. The odds ratio for developing hair loss after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine was 1.34 (95% CI: 1.04¬1.73) for females and 1.12 (95% CI: 0.81-1.54) for males. Conclusion: Hair loss is a rare but possible side effect of COVID-19 vaccination in both males and females, which its prevalence is higher in females than in males. Individuals with certain comorbidities, such as hypertension and diabetes, may be at a higher risk for experiencing hair loss after COVID-19 vaccination

Demographics, Risk Factors, and Post-COVID-19 Syndrome Among Patients in the Middle Euphrates Region of Iraq

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on global health, requiring a comprehensive understanding of its regional dynamics for effective management and response strategies. This study aimed to explore the demographics, risk factors, and post-COVID-19 syndrome among patients in the Middle Euphrates region of Iraq. Methods: A total of 410 patients were included in the study, with 180 females and 230 males. Demographic characteristics, risk factors (such as smoking, and comorbidities), and post-COVID-19 syndrome manifestations were analyzed. Statistical and machine learning analyses were conducted to predict outcomes. Results: The findings revealed a diverse age range (38-83 years) of COVID-19 patients in the Middle Euphrates region. Smoking was prevalent among 93 patients, while comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity were observed in significant numbers. Post-COVID-19 syndrome symptoms included generalized muscle fatigue, impaired concentration and memory, joint pain, hair loss, and respiratory problems. The prevalence of these symptoms varied across different age groups. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the demographics, risk factors, and post-COVID-19 syndrome among patients in the Middle Euphrates region of Iraq. The high prevalence of smoking and comorbidities highlights the importance of tailored interventions for high-risk individuals. The range of persistent symptoms emphasizes the need for comprehensive healthcare support. These findings contribute to the existing knowledge on the impact of COVID-19 in the region and can inform targeted interventions and resource allocation

Attenuation of acute systemic inflammatory response after valve surgery

Objective: This study highlights the protective effects of montelukast on myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury induced by cardiopulmonarybypass during valve replacement surgery.Methods: A total of 60 patients with valvular disease undergoing elective valve surgery were enrolled in this randomized single-blinded study.Participants were divided into two main groups: Montelukast-treated group consisted of 30 patients who were given 10 mg montelukast sodium(Singulair®, MSD, USA) tablet, once daily at bedtime for 3 days before valve surgery. Control group consisted of 30 patients who underwent valvesurgery without taking montelukast tablets. Blood samples were collected at following times (T0; T1 before aortic cross clamp; T2 after aortic crossclamp; and T3 24 h after the surgery), for measuring several inflammatory markers. Ejection fraction (EF) was measured before surgery and threemonths after surgery. Pulmonary functions were measured before and after the surgery in both study groups.Results: There were significant increase in the levels of TNF-a, IL-6, a2 macroglobulin/creatinine ratio and CTnI, in the control groupcompared to the montelukast-treated group among different study times, (P Conclusion: This study shows the benefits of using pre-surgical montelukast supplement in ameliorating the inflammatory process inpatients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass during valve replacement surgery

Novel Toll-like receptor-4 deficiency attenuates trastuzumab (Herceptin) induced cardiac injury in mice

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Cardiac inflammation and generation of oxidative stress are known to contribute to trastuzumab (herceptin) induced cardiac toxicity. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a part of the innate immune system and are involved in cardiac stress reactions. Since TLR4 might play a relevant role in cardiac inflammatory signaling, we investigated whether or not TLR4 is involved in trastuzumab induced cardiotoxicity.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Seven days after a single injection of herceptin (2 mg/kg; i.p.), left ventricular pressure volume loops were measured in HeN compotent (TLR4^+/+) and HeJ mutant (TLR4^-/-) treated with trastuzumab and control mice. Immunofluorescent staining for monocyte infiltration and analyses of plasma by (ELISAs) for different chemokines including: MCP-1and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Western immunoblotting assay for ICAM-1, and used troponin I for cardiac injury marker.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Trastuzumab injection resulted in an impairment of left ventricular function in TLR-4 competent (HeN), in contrast TLR4^-/^-trastuzumab mice showed improved left ventricular function EF%, CO; p < 0.05, attenuation of mononuclear cell infiltration in TLR4 ^-/-; p < 0.05 vs.TLR-4 competent (HeN), reduced level of cytokines TNF-α, MCP-1 and ICAM-1 expression in TLR4^-/-, marked reduction of myocardial troponin-I levels in TLR4-deficient mice. Data are presented as means ± SE; n = 8 in each group p < 0.05 vs.TLR-4 competent (HeN).</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Treatment with trastuzumab induces an inflammatory response that contributes to myocardial tissue TLR4 mediates chemokine expression (TNF-α, MCP-1and ICAM-1), so in experimental animals TLR4 deficiency improves left ventricular function and attenuates pathophysiological key mechanisms in trastuzumab induced cardiomyopathy.</p