Iraqi Journal of Natural Sciences and Nanotechnology

A Comprehensive Review of the Causes of Male Infertility

TALAL ALDARAWSHA — 2025-11-22

Male infertility is a complex and multifaceted issue with significant implications for reproductive health. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate web of factors contributing to male infertility, offering a nuanced exploration of the primary causes. Genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, varicocele, environmental influences, infections, structural abnormalities, and sexual dysfunction emerge as pivotal determinants impacting male reproductive potential. Diagnostic approaches, encompassing semen analysis, hormonal tests, imaging studies, and genetic testing, play a crucial role in uncovering the underlying causes. Treatment modalities, ranging from lifestyle modifications to advanced assisted reproductive technologies, underscore the multidisciplinary nature of addressing male infertility. Through a meticulous examination of each causative factor, this review seeks to enhance our understanding, guiding both clinicians and researchers toward more effective interventions. The article concludes with a conclusion on current challenges, future perspectives, and the imperative for ongoing research to unravel the complexities surrounding male infertility. This review article aims to provide a valuable resource for clinicians, researchers, and individuals seeking insights into the multifaceted landscape of male reproductive health.

The Effect of Deposition Temperature on Solid State Properties of Chemically Deposited Zinc Oxide Thin Films

Rasaq Ayinla Babatunde — 2025-12-28

The optical, structural, surface morphology and elemental composition
of chemically deposited ZnO thin films at varying deposition
temperatures were studied. The films deposited at room temperature
had the highest transmittance of 70.52 %, and films deposited at 70oC
had an average transmittance of 38.85 %. The energy gap was between
3.52 and 3.62 eV. The structural properties showed that some of the
films were amorphous and some were crystalline, as revealed by the
XRD pattern. The diameters of crystals, micro lattice strain, and
dislocation density of the crystalline films were measured with the
Debye Scherrer. The crystallite size was between 49.1 and 60.91 nm,
the micro lattice strain ranged between 6.35 and 8.60 x 10-4, and the
dislocation density was between 2,69 X 1014 and 4.13 X 1014 lines per
metre cube. The films covered the substrate and were smooth but the
films deposited at 40oC, which showed some high particles on the
surface as revealed by surface morphology. The elemental
compositions of the films showed that zinc and oxygen were present for
all the films except the films deposited at 40oC, which had a low
percentage of carbon.

Mechanical Properties of NixTi1-x Alloy for Medical Application

Muthana H. Al-Saidi — 2025-12-28

The effect of Ni:Ti ratios in Ni_xTi_x-1 shape memory alloy at x equal to 0.9, 0.8, 0.7, 0.6, and 0.5 wt% prepared using the solid-state reaction method for medical applications have been studied. The mechanical properties of the alloy included hardness, impact, and Young's modulus which play an important role of issues were examined. The hardness values of 590.16, 670.41, 735.15, 888.03, and 901.17, which correspond to ratios of 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40 and 50:50 respectively. Besides the impact test recorded the highest value of 9.12 (KJ/m²) at the ratio of 50:50, and the lowest value of 5.32 (KJ/m²) for the 90:10 ratio. The Young's modulus of nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) alloy have the highest value at a 50:50 ratio of nickel to titanium which considered as the optimal ratio depend on all there tested. The reason is that the ideal balance between nickel and titanium in the alloy provides maximum hardness and flexibility, making it particularly suitable for applications that require strong and stable mechanical properties, such as medical applications, which is useful in medical applications compared to other ratios.

Enhancing Solar Cell Efficiency Through Advanced Nanomaterial Integration: A Comprehensive Review

Mousa Hawan Naeem — 2025-12-28

The results of the study “Improving the Efficiency of Solar Cells by Incorporating Advanced Nanomaterials” shows that incorporating nanomaterials into solar cells represents a major development towards increasing the efficiency of these cells. The main benefits of using nanomaterials include improving light absorption, reducing losses due to reflection, and increasing the overall efficiency of energy conversion. The study addresses several areas in which nanomaterials can contribute, such as the design of multi-layer solar cells (Tandem Solar Cells) that make better use of the solar spectrum, allowing them to exceed the traditional limit on solar cell efficiency. The study also addresses the importance of anti-reflection coatings and modifying the optical spectrum using these materials, which increases the quantity of light that is assimilated and transformed into electrical energy. The study considers that current challenges include the stability of nanomaterials and the possibility of large-scale manufacturing, but it remains optimistic about the future, with expectations of further improvements in efficiency as research and development in this field continue. This comprehensive overview of developments in the field of solar cells using nanomaterials reflects the future direction of making solar energy more effective and efficient.

Recent Advances in Plant-Mediated Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) and Their Biomedical Applications: A Comprehensive Review

Laith S. Alhiti — 2025-12-28

The utilization of plant extracts for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has emerged as a prominent method due to its environmentally friendly and cost-effective nature, garnering substantial attention in scientific research. This review article provides an in-depth exploration of the synthesis process, focusing on critical parameters such as temperature, pH level, and reaction duration, which exert significant influence on the size, morphology, and stability of the resultant AgNPs. By leveraging the inherent reducing and stabilizing properties of diverse biomolecules present in plant extracts, researchers can finely adjust the synthesis conditions to yield AgNPs tailored to specific requirements. The biomedical applications of these AgNPs are extensive, encompassing a wide range of functions from serving as antimicrobial agents in wound care and coatings to functioning as versatile drug delivery platforms and diagnostic aids. The pronounced antimicrobial activity of AgNPs renders them particularly valuable in combatting infections and facilitating wound healing processes. Moreover, their biocompatibility and minimal cytotoxicity profile hold promise for diverse therapeutic applications, including but not limited to cancer therapy and tissue engineering. In essence, the green synthesis of AgNPs using plant extracts represents a sustainable and promising avenue with far-reaching implications in the realms of biomedical research and healthcare.

Role of PET and SPECT Scans Functional Imaging Technique in Radiological Diagnosis

Dalya A. Ali Mohammed — 2025-12-28

In the medical imaging field, nuclear medicine employs a variety of image analysis methodologies, including single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET). These techniques offer the radiologist supplementary information that aids in the precise analysis and diagnosis of various diseases. A PET system is a functional imaging technique that relies on the capture of two gamma photons from a radioisotope that has accumulated in a target, whereas a SPECT scan is a functional imaging technique that relies on the capture of a single gamma photon from a radioisotope within a target. Radiopharmaceutical materials are indispensable for PET and SPECT examinations. In order to determine the localisation and distribution of radioisotopes within the body, they are designed as molecules that transport radioisotopes to the target. In summary, the primary distinction between SPECT/CT and PET/CT imaging techniques is the manner in which they detect the photons emitted by radiopharmaceuticals that have been loaded with radioisotopes after being absorbed by the body. The selection of radioactive material and radiopharmaceuticals is contingent upon the target's metabolism process within the body, the radionuclide's physical half-life, and the molecule's size.

The Contracting Helicobacter pylori Infections

Alaa M. Madhloom — 2025-12-28

One of the most common bacterial infections in the world is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Infection raises the chance of stomach adenocarcinoma, mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma, and peptic ulcer disease in addition to causing chronic gastritis. Approximately 50% of people worldwide are infected by the disease, and as of right now, no cure guarantees complete eradication. This review emphasizes current diagnostic options, the difficulties in eliminating H. pylori and the need for alternative therapeutic approaches based on deepening our understanding of host H. pylori infections. It attempts to give a broad overview of our knowledge regarding H. pylori infection and its management.

Characterizations of Polymers Doped with Oxides Metals Nanoparticles and Their Applications: A Review

Ahmed Namah Mohamed — 2025-12-28

Polymer materials are of significant interest due to their diverse applications (low density, strong mechanics, cost-effective, and intricate shaping). Their potential is further enhanced by doping, which allows control over optical and electrical properties by manipulating the dopant type, concentration, and interaction with polymer chains. Similarly, incorporating oxides and metal nanoparticles modifies physical characteristics of polymers. The surface characteristics and properties of the filler significantly influence the final thermal, mechanical, optical, magnetic, or conductive properties of the nanocomposites. This is particularly relevant for energy and environmental applications where high thermomechanical properties, rheology, and heat stability are crucial. The creation of novel composites with synergistic or complementary behaviors between polymers and inorganic materials is anticipated due to the distinct electrical and optical properties of nanoscale inorganic fillers compared to their bulk counterparts. Research on metal oxide nanoparticles (ZnO, TiO₂, SnO₂) and their application in PANI-based nanocomposites for gas detection exemplifies this approach. Combining organic and inorganic materials unlocks exciting possibilities, paving the way for new applications like biosensors, gas sensors, conductive paints, drug delivery, and rechargeable batteries. Blending polymers with various inorganic nanoparticles further expands the possibilities for creating diverse nanostructures.

TiO₂ Nanofibers for Biomedical Applications: From Fabrication to Bacterial and Fungal Selectivity: A Review

‪Ali qasim Tuama‬‏ — 2025-12-28

The titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanofibers have garnered much interest particularly in the biomedical sector whereby its characteristics, i.e. high surface volume ratio, high photocatalytic activity and high biocompatibility have made it very popular. To expand the magnitude of production of such nanofibers, various and diverse synthesis techniques such as electrospinning, sol-gel processing and template assisted techniques, have been used. In particular, the methods also enable optimization of the morphology and the crystal structure of the final materials by the research. The TiO2 nanofibers have been used in these fields, leading to their application in tissue engineering scaffolds up to antimicrobial coating. They are activity selective in relation to bacterial and fungal pathogens due to their efficacy. The review will comment on the history of manufacturing of TiO2 nanofibers and the uses that the developments have been put in biomedical applications. This review also features their antimicrobial effect and selectivity towards different kinds of microorganisms is also discussed in relation to next-generation TiO2 nanofibers when applied to the biomedical materials.

The Mutual Interaction Between Microbial and Human Viruses in the Gut: The Role of the Virome in Modulating Immunity and Therapeutic Response

Wurood kadhim Abed — 2025-12-28

The gut virome of man comprises different communities of viruses, like bacteriophages and eukaryotic viruses, which are crucial in determining the microbiota of the gut, regulating the immune response, and triggering effects of therapy. The evidence that resurfaces affirms the reciprocal relation between microbial and human GI viruses that demonstrate an integral participatory aspect in health or disease. This review is used to describe the progression of the gut virome from birth, diversity, and functional effects towards boosting the sustaining of the immune homeostasis. Interactions between phages and bacteria via different cycles of viral replication have a major role to play in shaping the community structure of microbes, whereas eukaryotic viruses participate in the modulation of the immune system and in disease susceptibility. Also, the peculiarities of the impact produced by the gut viruses upon the host immunity, for instance, by controlling cytokines and the activity of T cells, and how they can participate in the response to the therapy, namely, to antiviral one. The revelation of the complicated interactions between the virome elements in the gut with the homeostasis system results in novel procedures of chronic and immune-based disease diagnosis and treatment. Needs for further studies of the role of virome in the gut ecology are needed to attain the prospects in precision medicine and virotherapy.