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Iraqi Journal of Science

Volume: 65

Issue: 01

Publication Year: 2024

Publication Date: January 2024

Articles in This Issue

Pages 1-592

1

Kinetics of Struvite Crystals Formation through Adsorption and Crystallization Using Zeolite Modification

Pages: 1-16 English

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Abstract

This study observed the formation of struvite crystals in wastewater using natural zeolite activated with Mg2+ ions. Mg2+ ions released from natural zeolite would react with PO43- and NH4+ ions from in wastewater to form struvite crystals. The results showed that at pH 8.5, the removal of PO43- and NH4+ ions was more effective using the modified zeolite than the natural zeolite. Adding 40 g/L Zeo-Mg (1) produced the best results, with PO43- (93.32%) and NH4 (40%) adsorption. Meanwhile, 40g/L Zeo-Mg (2) adsorbed 81% PO43- ions and 27.12% NH4+ ions. The eqilibrium time of all the treatments was 40 min. The results of observation through SEM, EDX, and FTIR showed that struvite crystals were formed on the zeolite surface. Kinetic models indicated that the mechanism of struvite formation on the surface of natural and modified zeolite was mainly chemisorption. Further calculations showed that the adsorption of PO43- and NH4+ ion followed the pseudo-first-order kinetic model.

Keywords

Crystallization Equilibrium Studies Natural Zeolite Struvite

2

Effect of s-Klotho Protein, GPX, Visfatin, Leptin and ROS of Iraqi Women with Breast Cancer

Pages: 17-23 English

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Abstract

The most prevalent cancer is breast cancer, and the incidence of breast cancer in women worldwide is increasing at a remarkably rapid rate. This study was conducted on 90 samples (45 newly diagnosed breast cancer samples and 45 control group samples), ranging in age from 35 to 70 years. Blood samples were collected from the Alawia Teaching Hospital and the Oncology Teaching Hospital between October 2020 and March 2021. ELISA assessed ROS, GPX, visfatin, IGF-1, vitamin A, leptin, and soluble al-Klotho. The results indicate that the breast cancer patients had significantly higher (ROS 3.57, visfatin 17.44) (ng/mL) (p<0.0001) and leptin 16.11 (ng/mL). In the group of patients, there was a significant increase (p<0.004) compared with the control group, whereas there were no significant differences between IGF-1 (624.72 pg/mL) (p>0.507), s-Klotho 398.22 ng/L (p>0.653), and vitamin A 69.49 umol/L (p<0.05). The results showed a negative correlation among the levels of patients with BC (ROS and vitamin A, GPX, IGF-1, GPX, leptin, and vitamin A). Finally, the current study concludes that vitamin A deficiency is one of the important factors that may influence the clinical evolution and prognosis of patients with breast cancer. Moreover, it was shown that the higher levels of leptin and visfatin could increase the danger in BC cases. The study measured levels of leptin and visfatin, which can increase the danger in BC cases, and measured ROS in patients.

Keywords

Breast cancer (BC) leptin Reactive oxygen species. soluble α-Klotho Visfatin vitamin A

3

Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of Multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated from Women with Urinary Tract Infections in Mosul City

Pages: 24-35 English

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Abstract

This study was established to discover and determine multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae from women suffering urinary tract infections, specifically in Mosul city. A total of 62 E. coli and 32 K. pneumoniae bacterial isolates were considered for this study. All isolates were characterized using standard bacterial culture methods, including culture on MacConkey agar, Eosin Methylene Blue agar and biochemical tests. Also antibiotic sensitivity test using standard disc method for different antibiotics and also special discs to detect ESBL activity were carried out, in addition to PCR as molecular identification tool. The results showed that most isolated E. coli and K. pneumoniae demonstrated MDR resistance pattern with highest resistance recorded for E. coli to tetracycline 62/62 (100%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole 60/62 (96.8%), gentamycin 51/62 (82.3%) and azithromycin 50/62 (80.7%). While K. pneumoniae recorded high resistance to nalidixic acid 32/32 (100%) and tetracycline 26/32 (81.2%). On the other hand, imipenem was the only one that showed ultimate sensitivity for all E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates. Furthermore, the current results revealed that 68/94 (72.3%) of the studied isolates have ESBL activity. The results for molecular studies confirmed that E. coli and K. pneumoniae have resistance genes with dominated CTX-M gene, followed by SHV and finally TEM gene. The study concluded that E. coli and K. pneumoniae with MDR feature are serious threat to women with UTIs and all necessary measures ought to be performed in order to reduce the antibiotic resistance.

Keywords

ESBL Escherichia coli Klebsiella pneumoniae MDR UTI

4

Detection of Leptin and Ghrelin Hormones and the Expression of their Receptors in Iraqi Obese Individuals

Pages: 36-42 English

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Abstract

Obesity is a complex disease and a major worldwide health hazard with adult mortality. Obesity is defined by an increase in the body-mass index of 30 kg m−2 or greater. It belongs to the genetic predisposition and more consumption of high-energy foods and decreased requirement for physical activity in modern society. This study was designed to evaluate leptin and ghrelin hormones levels and the gene expression of leptin and ghrelin receptors in obese individuals. Seventy-five obese (45 females and 30 males) and 25 (15 females and 10 male) normal individuals were admitted to the Obesity Research and Therapeutic Unit at Alkindy College of Medicine/ University of Baghdad. All blood samples were pulled from obese and normal weight individuals. Leptin and ghrelin hormones were evaluated by ELISA technique and leptin and ghrelin receptors expressions were estimated by RT-PCR. Leptin level was lower in obese than normal 2.74±0.14 ng/ml, 3.47± 0.38 ng/ml respectively. While ghrelin level was higher in obese than normal (26.3 ± 0.56 ng/ml, 17.3 ± 0.5 ng/ml respectively). There was a significant decrease in leptin receptor Ob-Rb mRNA expression in obese individuals (P<0.05). Obese individuals had more ghrelin receptor GHS-R mRNA expression than normal people. In conclusion, obese patients were found to have higher ghrelin hormone and GHS-R as well as low leptin and Ob-Rb mRNA expressions.

Keywords

ghrelin Ghrelin receptor GHS-R leptin Leptin receptor OB-R Obesity.

5

A Study of Drinking Water Properties in Some Hospitals in Baghdad City

Pages: 43-54 English

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Abstract

One of the bigger problems in drinking water is disinfection by-products (DBPs) that come from chlorinated disinfection. This study’s goal was to evaluate the drinking water in Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital, Ibn Sina Hospital and Ibn-Al-Nafis Hospital. Samples were collected between October 2018 and September 2019. Physical and chemical characteristics of the water were studied, including (temperature, hydrogen ion (pH), total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), turbidity, free residual chlorine, total organic carbon (TOC), total trihalomethanes (THMs), total halo acetic acid (THAAs)). Data analysis showed the highest value of study temperature, pH, TDS, EC, turbidity, free residual chlorine and TOC which was 37oC, 8.4,790 mg/l, 1251 μS/cm-1, 15 NTU, 1.7 mg/l, and 6.7 mg/l respectively. Total trihalomethanes (THMs) results of drinking water samples from different sites showed that the highest value was 129.6 μg/l in Ibn Sina Hospital during summer while the lowest value was 41.3 μg/l in Ibn Sina Hospital in winter. The results of total halo acetic acid (THAAs) of drinking water sampled from different sites showed that the highest value of 72.9 μg/l was recorded in the sample collected from Ibn Sina Hospital during summer and the lowest THAAs water content of 40.2 μg/l was obtained in the sample collected from Ibn-Al-Nafis during winter. The results of this research were acceptable and within the range of Iraqi standards.

Keywords

Baghdad Disinfection by-Products (DBPs) Drinking hospitals water

6

Triple-P Panel (Procalcitonin, Presepsin and Pentraxin3) to Confirm Sepsis

Pages: 55-64 English

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Abstract

A total of 65 blood samples (25 culture positive sepsis and 40 culture negative sepsis) from patients with sepsis symptoms who resided in the ICU of Hilla city hospitals, were collected, as well as 25 samples as a control (healthy persons) during a period from January to June 2022. Data was documented at the time of admission to the ICU. Regarding PSN and PCT concentration (P value= 0.001), the control group had a significant difference from both the two patients’ groups (culture positive and negative groups of sepsis). Whereas the difference was not significant for the PTX3 concentration among patients and control (P value = 0.56). Furthermore, PSN and PCT concentrations did not significantly differ between the culture positive and culture negative groups of sepsis (P value > 0.05). Moreover, there was a significant strong positive correlation between PSN and PCT (r = 0.500; P <0.001).

Keywords

immunological parameters Pentraxin 3 Presepsin procalcitonin sepsis

7

Inhibitory Effects of Biosynthesized Copper Nanoparticles on Biofilm Formation of Proteus mirabilis

Pages: 65-78 English

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Abstract

This study aimed to explore whether green synthesized copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) can function as an anti-biofilm agent produced by P. mirabilis. The nanoparticles were synthesized from cells free extract of P. mirabilis. Characterization of biosynthesized copper nanoparticles was carried out to determine the chemical and physical properties of the product using atomic-force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV-visible spectroscopy. The hexagonal structure was confirmed by XRD, size range was marked 13-19nm by TEM. FESEM was used to confirm the surface morphology. AFM analysis was used to reveal the roughness and distribution of nanoparticles. UV–visible spectra of the synthesized nanoparticles recorded a maximum peak at 380 nm. Copper nanoparticles showed remarkable biofilm inhibitory effects on wild type strains of multidrug resistant Proteus mirabilis.
After incubation for 24 and 48 hours at 37oC with 128 μg/ml sub minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of CuO nanoparticles, strong biofilm producer strains showed weak biofilm production. Down regulation changes in LuxS expression using real time PCR technology were detected after treatment with copper nanoparticles of these strains.

Keywords

Antibacterial effect Biofilm Copper nanoparticles Green synthesized nanoparticles Proteus mirabilis

8

Detecting the Variation in the lasI Gene and Their Relation with Biofilm in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates

Pages: 79-89 English

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Abstract

One of the most causative agents for many opportunistic diseases is the Pseudomonas aeruginosa which has a high percentage of multidrug resistance disease through construction of biofilm. The current study aimed for evaluating the correlation between quorum sensing genes (which is lasI gene) and biofilm formation. The biofilm construction and antibiotics susceptibility test were achieved for all the isolates under the study. The PCR and sequencing techniques were also carried out to detect the type of variation in lasI gene for each scheme of biofilm formation (weak, strong, and moderate). High antibiotic resistance was recorded among biofilm producing isolates. The genic pattern for the weak biofilm producer, which is isolate No 19, carries lysine instead of arginine in position 92 and aspartic acid instead of asparagine in position 115. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the horizontal genetic transfer between isolates was very high. Finally, we conclude that the lasI gene does participate in biofilm construction of P. aeruginosa.

Keywords

biofilm formation Genic variation LasI Gene Pseudomonas aeruginosa

9

Clinical and Histopathological Features of Breast Cancer in Iraqi Patients between 2018-2021

Pages: 90-107 English

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Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy in women worldwide and a major cause of cancer-related deaths for women in Iraq. This assignment was created to investigate the characteristics of BC diagnosed in Baghdad from 2018 to 2021. A total of eighty-nine of paraffin embedded tissue blocks of different breast tissue tumors (71 females and 18 males) with their data, were collected from archive of Histopathology Department, Teaching Laboratories of Medical City, Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital, and a private laboratory in Baghdad-Iraq. The clinical information regarding age, gender, tumor size, tumor stage and grade, lymph nodes metastasis, in addition to the findings of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)-2 and molecular subtypes were obtained from reviewed patients medical records and pathologic reports. Results revealed a high incidence of BC in patients at sixth and seventh decades of age, with a rate of 37.78% and 28.89% respectively. The dominant tumor size was 2–5 cm in malignant cases, and 91.11% of cases were in females. Regarding the histological type, the majority of malignant cases (60%) were IDCs. Whereas 53.33% of cases had metastasis to lymph nodes. Stage III was the most common tumor stage and grade II was the most common grade, comprising 64.44%. Furthermore, the hormone receptor status was 46.67% ER positive, while PR results were equally positive and negative comprising 42.22% per each, 62.22% of HER2 status was negative, and luminal subtypes accounted for 46.67% of all molecular subtypes.

Keywords

Breast tumors clinicopathological features Epidemiology Risk factors

10

Association of PARP1 Gene Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in The Iraqi population

Pages: 108-118 English

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Abstract

Thyroid carcinoma incidence is increasing year after year and ranking second among top ten cancers in Iraq, especially among women, and this increased the requirement for the improvement of the molecular detection accuracy because of its potential role in the early detection. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs1136410, A>G and rs1805414, A>G) in PARP1 gene were found to be associated with thyroid carcinoma risk in several genome wide association studies, therefore, this is a case-control study that was carried out to identify whether these polymorphisms are associated with papillary thyroid carcinoma risk in Iraqi population. The Association was investigated in one hundred and one papillary thyroid carcinoma patients (11 male and 90 female) with ages (22-65), and one hundred and two controls (16 male and 86 female) with ages (21-67), using quantitative PCR-high resolution melting technique. The results showed that there is a strong association between both of rs1136410and rs1805414 with papillary thyroid carcinoma, the allele G was significantly associated with the disease as a risk factor in both variations (p<0.0001, odd ratio(OR): 4.9635, 95% confidence interval(CI): 3.2179-7.6560) in rs1136410, and (P<0.0001, odd ratio(OR): 3.1620, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.0997-4.7619) in rs1805414. while the allele A represents a protective factor in both variations (OR=0.2015 and 0.3163 respectively). In conclusion, the allele G in both rs1136410 and rs1805414 in the PARP1 gene is strongly associated with papillary thyroid carcinoma in the Iraqi population.

Keywords

PARP1; papillary thyroid carcinoma; case-control study; HRM; polymorphism

11

Differential Diagnosis of Entamoeba spp. Using the 18SrRNA Gene in Gastroenteritis Patients

Pages: 119-125 English

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Abstract

In order to accurately diagnose Entamoeba spp., this study's major goal was to develop a proof-of-concept method for simultaneously detecting pathogenic and non-pathogenic amoebae using DNA. During amoebiasis, two diagnostic techniques (microscopic inspection and PCR techniques with particular primers) were evaluated. About 100 feces samples from Fallujah individuals who had clinical symptoms were taken. The outcome reveals that only 20 samples have Entamoeba spp. infections. According to this study, the two species had distinct infection percentages. Entamoeba histolytica was the most prevalent infection, at 85%, followed by Entamoeba dispar, which was 15% of all the Entamoeba-positive samples. In addition to studying the morphology and genes of the positive samples, the residential environment, age, and gender were also taken into consideration. It showed the infective patients in the rural area had a higher rate of infection, which was 18%, while the infection in the urban area was less, which was represented by 2%. As for the effect of the age factor, the highest percentage was from children who did not exceed ten years old, which was 10%. The lowest percentage was 2% for people over the age of sixteen (16). According to the gender factor, a different percentage appeared in males than females. The result showed a high infection rate for males, which was estimated at about 16%, but for females it was much less, at only 4%.

Keywords

Entamoeba dispar Entamoeba histolytica Epidemiology molecular techniques

12

Evaluate the Levels of Serum Eotaxin-1 , Myelin Basic Protein, and Some Immunological and Biochemical Markers in Iraqi Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Pages: 126-137 English

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Abstract

The central nervous system (CNS) disease known as multiple sclerosis (MS) is essentially an inflammatory demyelinating condition with a variety of clinical manifestations and variable histological findings. A number of immunological and biochemical markers may alter MS, which is also characterized as an autoimmune illness. MS patients (n = 100) were divided into two groups: newly diagnosed (n = 42) and patients with ongoing treatments (n = 58). These groups were compared to healthy subjects (n = 55); the mean age ±SD was (30±8.46 years), (37±8.06 years), and (31±8.73 years) for MS newly diagnosed patients, patients with ongoing treatments, and healthy subjects, respectively. Studies for serum levels of eotaxin-1, myelin basic protein (MBP), IL-23, 27, 9, and 37 were measured by the ELISA technique. Eotaxin-1, MBP, IL-23, 27, and alkaline phosphate were significantly higher in all MS patient groups, but for IL-37, there was no significant difference between newly diagnosed patients when compared with patients with ongoing treatment. Weak positive correlations were found between IL-9 and myelin (r = 0.282, p≤0.05) and a weak positive correlation between IL-23 and ALP (r = 0.209, p≤0.05) in MS patients. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied for the parameters eotaxin-1, MBP, IL-23, 27, and alkaline phosphate, which showed a high sensitivity according to the area under the curve. The present results conclude that eotaxin-1, MBP, IL-23, 27, and alkaline phosphate can be used as diagnostic markers for multiple sclerosis.

Keywords

D3 eotaxin-1 interleukins Liver function enzymes. Multiple Sclerosis Myelin basic protein

13

Comparison Study Between Crude and Purified L-Asparaginase From Bacillus Spp. for Reduction of Acrylamide Level During Fries Processing

Pages: 138-150 English

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Abstract

Acrylamide is a toxic chemical that is created when foods are heated; it is also available in foods containing different additives. The purpose of the study was to determine whether Bacillus spp. isolates could reduce the concentration of acrylamide in food, as well as to compare the different treatments of crude and pure L-asparaginase produced from the same bacteria in acrylamide reduction in potato slices. Our findings reveal that this bacterium could degrade acrylamide and reduce its concentration. Furthermore, the acrylamide content of potato slices reduced dramatically with increasing enzymatic treatment time, reaching the under detection limit (UDL) after 30 minutes of treatment with 84 U/ml of crude and purified L-asparaginase. In addition, the purified enzyme is more active in removing acrylamide from potato slices than the crude enzyme at all three times. The removal efficiency rises as the enzyme concentration increases. After bleaching the potato slices for 20 minutes at 80 °C with 84 U/ml of pure enzyme, the acrylamide level was totally decreased.

Keywords

Acrylamide Acrylic acid asparaginase belching potato slices

14

Plasma Characterization of Microwave Plasma jet at Atmospheric Pressure

Pages: 151-159 English

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Abstract

The microwave induced plasma jet (MIPJ) system was built using local materials based on a tapered waveguide. The parameters of this plasma were determined. The other characteristics, such as plasma frequency (fp), Debye length (λD), and quantity of particles in the Debye sphere (Nd), electron temperature Te, electron density ne, and others have been researched as well. The study was conducted at various Ar flow rates between (2.5-10) l/m and different discharge tube inner diameters between (2-10) mm. The MIPJ spectra were used to determine each of these parameters. It was concluded that there is a good chance of influencing MIPJ's parameters by changing these parameters.

Keywords

Electron temperature microwave induced plasma jet optical emission spectral

15

Design and Feasibility Study of A Stand-Alone Home Pv Solar System in Baghdad Climate

Pages: 160-174 English

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Abstract

The question asked by all researchers is when solar panels will replace the national grid, especially in the domestic sector. In this study, a rooftop stand-alone solar electric system is designed to provide all the electrical power to a house in Baghdad-Iraq, using a (How to design PV system) simulation program. The feasibility of this system compared to the performance of the national electric grid and the system of private diesel generators is determined. The proposed solar system capacity is (25 kW), and the space required and the energy payback time are (360 m2 and 7.82 years), respectively. By using the current system, the net CO2 mitigation amount is 499,518.2 tons for 30-year. The kilowatt-hour costs for the subsidized national grid, private diesel generators, and the present solar system is 0.01865$, 0.1509$, and $0.108, respectively. The kilowatt cost can reach 0.25kWh if the battery replacement cost is estimated; so photovoltaic systems are still a good choice to generate electricity instead of using the national grid. If solar PV systems to generate electricity are used instead of the national grid, the financial and environmental profits will be good enough. The reason for the study is because the costs of off-grid solar PV systems are high, no specific studies have emerged on such vital topics. Currently, loans from government banks have reduced the impact of this negative factor

Keywords

carbon dioxide emissions photovoltaic (PV) system renewable energy solar module standalone solar PV system

16

Numerical Analysis for Streamer Discharge at the Discharge Transition from the Second to the Third Mode in Transformers Oil

Pages: 175-185 English

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Abstract

This study is a numerical analysis of the transition process from the second to the third mode in transformer oil. In this study, it was determined how to change from the second to the third mode, which is thought to be a precursor to the process of electrical breakdown, which results in a significant loss of electrical energy and harm to electrical devices and equipment. The initiation time, length, rate of propagation velocity, and radius of the streamer discharge were determined. The transition from the second to the third mode during the electrical discharge process may lead to the occurrence of an electrical breakdown, which is one of the greatest challenges facing scientists and engineers who deal with the electrical power of transmission and generation devices. The model was designed by AutoCAD software, which included two electrodes: a needle, with a tip radius of (4μm), and a plate, with a gap of (1 mm) between them. The gap between the two electrodes was filled with transformer oil. The equations, which are Poisson's equation and the continuity equations for positive and negative ions and electrons, which are generated by applying an applied voltage (from 27 kV to within 278 kV), had been solved by a simulation process. All the schematics and drawings were extracted by the Comsol Multiphysics program

Keywords

COMSOL Multiphysics Electrical breakdown. streamer discharge Transformer oil

17

The Effect of Doped TiO2 Layer on the Performance and Stability of PCDTBT: PCBM-based Organic Solar Cells

Pages: 186-197 English

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Abstract

Charge extraction layers play a crucial role in developing the performance of the inverted organic solar cells. Using a transparent metal oxide with appropriate work function to the photoactive layer can significantly decrease interface recombination and enhance charge transport mechanism. Therefore, electron selective films that concentrations different:Al) with 2doped titanium dioxide (TiO-aluminiumconsist of of Al (0.4, 0.8, and 1.2)wt % were prepared using sol-gel technique. The inverted organic solar cells PCPDTBT: PCBM with Al doped TiO2 as electron extraction layer were fabricated. It is well known that Al doping concentration potentially affects the by controlling the optical, morphological, and 2physical characteristics of the TiOstructural properties. The effect of Al incorporation on the optical and morphological properties of the prepared films were analysed using UV-Vis spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The current–voltage (J-V) curves of the PCPDTBT: PCBM organic solar cells show that the TiO2:Al layer with 0.8% Al wt%, has the highest power conversion efficiency which is 3.02%.

Keywords

Al-doped TiO2 Organic Solar Cell PCPDTBT: PCBM Sol-gel method.

18

Hydrochemical and Environmental Isotope of Groundwater Samples in Al- Khassa Sub-Basin, Kirkuk, Northeastern Iraq

Pages: 198-209 English

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Abstract

Hydrochemical study of groundwater has carried out for the Al-Khassa Sub-Basin during the October 2020 and May 2021 seasons for estimating the impacts of seasonal variation and human activity on water quality and using the isotope to determine the main source of recharge. It was found that Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and Dissolved Oxygen (DO) were out of the standard indicating that the groundwater environment was reduced and difficult to recover from pollution. Physical and chemical properties that were high (Total Dissolved Solid (TDS), Total Suspended Solid (TSS), Electrical conductivity (EC), Total Hydrocarbon (THC)). Partial pollution by nitrate and phosphorous due to the use of fertilizers for these elements. The contamination by manganese, molybdenum
and boron was present in all samples of the two seasons, and partly for lead and
mercury due to fertilizers, agricultural activities, the presence of animal and poultry
ranches , besides the poor sewage system in the basin based on a septic tank. Washing polluted agricultural soil by rain lead to polluting groundwater. From the environmental isotope analysis (δ2H and δ18O), the isotopic compositions of precipitation were used to construct a local meteoric water line for the study area. The isotopic compositions of groundwater samples were situated to the left of the Global meteoric water line (GMWL), suggesting input of local rainfall that derives from weather front originating from the Mediterranean Sea. Comparing the isotope composition of groundwater and precipitation showed that the infiltrated precipitation that was the main source of recharge to the aquifer system in the study area.

Keywords

Al- Khassa Sub-Basin groundwater pollution Heavy Metal Meteoric water line Stable Isotope

19

Petrophysical and Statistical Analysis of Main Pay of the Zubair Formation in South Rumaila Oil Field

Pages: 210-222 English

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Abstract

The Zubair Formation is one of the major reservoirs of high production in the Rumaila oilfield, southern Iraq. The petrophysical properties analysis of the Upper Sand Member (Main Pay) of the Zubair Formation was conducted. The study includes results analysis of four wells distributed along the South Rumaila oilfield. Using a set of open well-logs, the main pay was divided into three main pay (AB, DJ and LN) units separated by two insulating shale units (C and K). The unit DJ was subdivided into three secondary reservoir units: D, F, H and the LN unit, which is split into L, M, and N. The research also includes the statistical analysis of the petrophysical properties, the calculation of the heterogeneity of the reservoir, and the cluster analysis of the upper sand member. The results indicated that the petrophysical specifications are good. Whereas, the results of the statistical analysis showed that the study wells were heterogeneous reservoirs that could be and were divided into four facies (Sand, Shaly Sand, Sandy Shale and Shale) depending on the log data.

Keywords

Main Pay petrophysical properties Southern Rumaila Oilfield Statistical analysis Zubair Formation

20

Paleoenvironmental Conditions of the Harur Formation (Early Carboniferous), Northern Iraq: Insights from Mineralogy and Elemental Geochemistry

Pages: 223-241 English

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Abstract

The early Carboniferous Harur Formation from the Ora outcrop section of northern Iraq consists of black shale, calcareous shale and carbonate. The mineralogical and geochemical investigations (major and trace elements) of the black shale and calcareous shale units have been conducted to evaluate paleoenvironmental conditions including paleoclimate, paleoredox conditions, paleoproductivity, sedimentary rate, and to evaluate their effects on organic matter accumulation. The geochemical proxies such as the Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA), A-CN-K plot, Sr/Cu ratio, and the relation between the ratio of Ga/Rb and Sr/Cu suggest moderate to intense chemical weathering under humid conditions. The Rb/K and Sr/Ba ratios indicate a freshwater environment during deposition. Multiple paleo-redox indicators such as ratios of V/(V+Ni) and Th/U) and U index indicates deposition under depleted marine oxygen conditions and consequently recording an Ocean Anoxic Event (OAE). The Th/U ratio indicates that the sedimentary rate at the lower part of the section is less than that of the upper part of the section. The terrigenous clastic input index (Ti and Al) shows that clastic input reduced from the lower to the upper section which implies that the sea level rose first lower to the upper section. Both Al and Ti have positive correlations with TOC (Total Organic Carbon) which reveal that clastic input was advantageous for OM accumulation. The high ratios of (Fe + Mn)/Ti and the presence of nacrite minerals indicate hydrothermal activity during deposition. Hence, the main control factors of OM accumulation in the black shale and calcareous shale of the Harur Formation were terrigenous clastic fluxes, in addition to paleo-redox conditions and hydrothermal activities. On contrary, paleoproductivity proxies play a relatively less significant role in OM accumulation

Keywords

Harur Formation; Paleo-weathering; Terrigenous clastic input; Anoxic event

21

The ????????-spaces of functions from the n-dimensional real space to the N-dimensional quaternionic space

Pages: 242-249 English

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Abstract

In this paper, we introduce new definitions of the ????????- spaces,????≤????≤∞, namely the ????????(ℝ????,ℍ????) - spaces,????≤????≤∞. Here, ???? and ???? are natural numbers that are not necessarily equal, such that ????,????≥1. The space ℝ???? refers to the n-dimensional Euclidean space, ℍ refers to the quaternions set and ℍ???? refers to the N-dimensional quaternionic space. Furthermore, we establish and prove some properties of their elements. These elements are quaternion-valued N-vector functions defined on ℝ????, and the ???????? spaces have never been introduced in this way before.

Keywords

Hamiltonian skew field of quaternions Quaternion N-vectors Quaternion-valued functions

22

Inference for Generalized Inverted Exponential Distribution UnderProgressive Type-I Interval Censored Data

Pages: 250-270 English

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Abstract

This article discusses the estimation methods for parameters of a generalized inverted exponential distribution with different estimation methods by using Progressive type-I interval censored data. In addition to conventional maximum likelihood estimation, the mid-point method, probability plot method and method of moments are suggested for parameter estimation. To get maximum likelihood estimates, we utilize the Newton-Raphson, expectation -maximization and stochastic expectation-maximization methods. Furthermore, the approximate confidence intervals for the parameters are obtained via the inverse of the observed information matrix. The Monte Carlo simulations are used to introduce numerical comparisons of the proposed estimators. In addition, we use the percentile bootstrapping technique that is used to calculate confidence intervals. The proposed methodology in a real-life using the survival times of guinea pigs inoculated with different doses of tubercle bacilli data are considered to offer the applicability of the suggested methods.

Keywords

Expectation-maximization(EM). Generalized Inverted Exponential Distribution (GIED) Probability plot Progressive type-I interval censored Stochastic expectation- maximization (SEM)

23

Generalized Schultz and Modified Schultz Polynomials for Some Special Graphs

Pages: 271-279 English

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Abstract

With simple and undirected connected graph Φ, the Schultz and modified Schultz
polynomials are defined as ????????(Φ;????)=Σ(????ℯℊ????+????ℯℊ????)????????(????,????) and ????????∗(Φ;????)=Σ(????ℯℊ????×????ℯℊ????)????????(????,????), respectively, where the summation is taken over all unordered pairs of distinct vertices in V(Φ), where V(Φ) is the vertex set of Φ, degu is the degree of vertex u and d(v,u) is the ordinary distance between v and u, u≠v. In this study, the Shultz distance, modified Schultz distance, the polynomial, index, and average for both have been generalized, and this generalization has been applied to some special graphs.

Keywords

generalized modified Schultz distance generalized Schultz distance Indices Polynomials special graphs

24

Oscillation and Asymptotic Behavior of a Three-Dimensional Half-Linear System of Third-Order of Neutral Type

Pages: 280-296 English

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Abstract

In this paper, the oscillatory properties and asymptotic behaviour of a third-order three-dimensional neutral system are discussed. Some sufficient conditions are obtained to ensure that all bounded positive solutions of the system are oscillatory or non-oscillatory. On the other hand, the non-oscillatory solutions either converge or diverge when ???? goes to infinity. A special technique is adopted to include all possible cases. The obtained results include illustrative examples.

Keywords

Half linear neutral system oscillation Positive solution Third order three-dimensional

25

Modeling and Analysis of a Prey-Predator System Incorporating Fear, Predator-Dependent Refuge, with Cannibalism in Prey

Pages: 297-319 English

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Abstract

The relationship between prey and predator populations is hypothesized and examined using a mathematical model. Predation fear, cannibalism among the prey population, and a refuge reliant on predators are predicted to occur. This study set out to look at the long-term behavior of the proposed model and the effects of its key elements. The solution properties of the model were investigated. All potential equilibrium points' existence and stability were looked at. The system's persistence requirements were established. What circumstances could lead to local bifurcation near equilibrium points was uncovered. Suitable Lyapunov functions are used to study the system's overall dynamics. Numerical simulations were conducted to verify the model's derived long-term behavior and understand the implications of the model's primary parameters in order to support the analytical conclusions. It is observed that the system undergoes different types of local bifurcation including Hopf bifurcation.

Keywords

Bifurcation prey-predator; prey cannibalism; a refuge; fear; stability

26

Further properties of the fuzzy complete a-fuzzy normed algebra

Pages: 320-331 English

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Abstract

In this paper further properties of the fuzzy complete a-fuzzy normed algebra have been introduced. Then we found the relation between the maximal ideals of fuzzy complete a-fuzzy normed algebra and the associated multiplicative linear function space. In this direction we proved that if ℓ is character on Z then kerℓ is a maximal ideal in Z. After this we introduce the notion structure of the a-fuzzy normed algebra then we prove that the structure, st(Z) is ω∗-fuzzy closed subset of fb(Z, ℂ) when (Z, ???????? , ⊛, ⊙) is a commutative fuzzy complete a-fuzzy normed algebra with identity e.

Keywords

ℂ) Character of a-fuzzy normed algebra fuzzy Gelfand transform. Fuzzy Tychonoff Theorem Structure of a-fuzzy normed algebra ω∗−fuzzy topology on afb(Z

27

Boundary Exponential Gradient Reduced Order Detectability in Neumann Conditions

Pages: 332-345 English

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Abstract

This work, aims to study and examine the description of the gradient reduced order-strategic sensors of type boundary exponential (????????∗????????????????-strategic sensors) for completion gradient reduced order-detectability of type boundary exponential (????????∗????????????????-detectability). Thus, this concept is linked to an estimator in distributed parameter systems (DPSS) in Neumann problem. So, we present numerous consequences regarding to diverse kinds of information, region ????∗ and conditions of boundary region to allow existence of ????????∗????????????????-detectable systems. In addition, we have estimated at the junction interface that the interior solution is harmonized with the exterior solution for ????????∗????????????????-detectable and, we give the relationship between this concept and sensors structures. Finally, we demonstrate some applications with many circumstances of sensor positions.

Keywords

Estimator Neumann conditions. Strategic sensors

28

Randomness of Stream Cipher Digital Sequences in the Field GF(28)

Pages: 346-357 English

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Abstract

A binary stream cipher cryptosystem can be used to encrypt/decrypt many types of digital files, especially those can be considered huge data files like images. To guarantee that the encryption or decryption processes need a reasonable time to encrypt/decrypt the images, so we have to make the stream cipher key generator that acts quickly without effect in the complexity or randomness of the output key binary sequences. In this paper, we increase the size of the output sequence from binary to digital sequence in the field ????????(28) to obtain byte sequence, then we test this new sequence not only as binary but also 28-sequence. So we have to test the new output sequence in the new mathematical field. This is done by changing the base of the randomness tests and extending Golomb’s postulates from binary to 256. Some theorems and lemmas are proved to find the new testing laws that are suitable to the new sequences field. The results of using the extended randomness tests are compared to the results of binary randomness tests to guarantee that the decision of pass or fail is identical, the results also prove the precision of identicalness.

Keywords

Basic Efficiency Criteria digital Sequences Randomness Stream Cipher

29

Impact of Porous Media on Peristaltic Transport of Tangent Hyperbolic Nanofluid in Asymmetric Channel

Pages: 358-373 English

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Abstract

The purpose behind this paper is to discuss nanoparticles effect, porous media, radiation and heat source/sink parameter on hyperbolic tangent nanofluid of peristaltic flow in a channel type that is asymmetric. Under a long wavelength and the approaches of low Reynolds number, the governing nanofluid equations are first formulated and then simplified. Associated nonlinear differential equations will be obtained after making these approximations. Then the concentration of nanoparticle exact solution, temperature distribution, stream function, and pressure gradient will be calculated. Eventually, the obtained results will be illustrated graphically via MATHEMATICA software.

Keywords

a symmetric channel Nanofluid Peristaltic transport porous media tangent hyperbolic nanofluid thermal conductivity wavelength number

30

Novel Results of ???? Quasi (ℷ−????)-hyponormal Operator

Pages: 374-380 English

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Abstract

This research aims to present some results for conceptions of ????− quasi (ℷ−ℳ)-hyponormal operator defined on Hilbert space−ℋ. Signified by the ???????? (ℷ−ℳ)ℎ-operator, together with some significant characteristics of this operator and various theorems pertaining to this operator are discussed, as well as, we discussed the null space and range of these kinds of operators.

Keywords

Hilbert space ℳ -hyponormal Quasi ℳ -hyponormal Quasihyponorrmal Operator

31

ECC Based Encryption for the Secured Proactive Network Forensic Framework

Pages: 381-389 English

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Abstract

Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) is one of the public key cryptosystems that works based on the algebraic models in the form of elliptic curves. Usually, in ECC to implement the encryption, the encoding of data must be carried out on the elliptic curve, which seems to be a preprocessing step. Similarly, after the decryption a post processing step must be conducted for mapping or decoding the corresponding data to the exact point on the elliptic curves. The Memory Mapping (MM) and Koblitz Encoding (KE) are the commonly used encoding models. But both encoding models have drawbacks as the MM needs more memory for processing and the KE needs more computational resources. To overcome these issues the proposed enhanced Koblitz encoding technique is used with the ECC for enhancing the security. The proposed model was compared to the existing model and found to be more efficient in terms of security. The proposed model ensure confidentiality with the encryption technique, Integrity by using the Hashing method, and authenticity and non-repudiationwith the utilization of digital signature.

Keywords

Cyber Security ECC Koblitz encoding Wireless Sensor Networks

32

Machine Learning Based Crop Yield Prediction Model in Rajasthan Region of India

Pages: 390-400 English

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Abstract

The present study investigates the implementation of machine learning models on
crop data to predict crop yield in Rajasthan state, India. The key objective of the study
is to identify which machine learning model performs are better to provide the most
accurate predictions. For this purpose, two machine learning models (decision tree
and random forest regression) were implemented, and gradient boosting regression
was used as an optimization algorithm. The result clarifies that using gradient boosting
regression can reduce the yield prediction mean square error to 6%. Additionally, for
the present data set, random forest regression performed better than other models. We
reported the machine learning model's performance using Mean Squared Error, Mean
Absolute Error and R-squared and identified that after the inclusion of gradient
boosting regression, the accuracy increased to 92.77%. The MAE value decreased
from 26.20 Mg/ha to 21.58 Mg/ha. The results indicate that machine learning models
can improve the prediction of crop yield.

Keywords

Crop yield Prediction Decision tree Gradient boosting regression. machine learning Random Forest regression

33

NS2 – Based Experimental Analysis of Throughput for TCP and UDP Traffic During Link Failure of The Network

Pages: 401-413 English

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Abstract

Link failure refers to the failure between two connections/nodes in a perfectly
working simulation scenario at a particular instance. Transport layer routing protocols
form an important basis of setting up a simulation, with Transmission Control
Protocol and User Datagram Protocol being the primary of them. The research makes
use of Network Simulator v2.35 to conduct different simulation experiments for link
failure and provide validation results. In this paper, both protocols, TCP and UDP are
compared based on the throughput of packets delivered from one node to the other
constrained to the condition that for a certain interval of time the link fails and the
simulation time remains the same for either of the protocols. Overall, this analysis is
based on determining the performance of both protocols with a fixed packet size and
bandwidth. This analysis, performed with the help of NS2 and XGraph, shows that
the transport layer protocol, UDP acts better than TCP in terms of throughput. This
opens the questions to other fellow researchers of how different metrics act in both
the cases when a link failure occurs. In UDP, the throughput drops less as compared
to the TCP at the time of the link failure regardless of if simulation was executed for
different time periods i.e., 70,100,300,900 and 1000 seconds. The link failure interval
is also varied from 10,15,20,40,350 and 440 seconds to generalize and validate the
performance of the network during the interval.

Keywords

Link failure NS2 Simulator Packet Analysis throughput. Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) User Datagram Protocol (UDP)

34

Air Quality Analysis of the Capitol City in Developing Countries During COVID-19 Emergency Care Based on Internet of Things Data

Pages: 414-430 English

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Abstract

This paper attempts to develop statistical modeling for air-conditioning analysis in
Jakarta, Indonesia, during an emergency state of community activity restrictions
enforcement (Emergency CARE), using a variety of parameters such as PM10, PM2.5,
SO2, CO, O3, and NO2 from five IoT-based air monitoring systems. The parameters
mentioned above are critical for assessing the air quality conditions and concentration
of air pollutants. Outdoor air pollution concentration variations before and after the
Emergency CARE, which was held in Indonesia during the COVID-19 pandemic on
July 3-21, 2021, were studied. An air quality monitoring system based on the IoT
generates sensor data that is collected from a government-integrated data portal, and
that can be analyzed statistically. There are two main types of ANOVA (Analysis of
Variance): one-way (or unidirectional) and two-way, which are applied to the
collected sensor data and hypotheses calculated using ANOVA. ANOVA one-way
was found to be more effective for analyzing air quality condition data. During
emergency CARE, the average concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, and O3 from the air
quality monitoring system show values that have exceeded the standard Air Quality
Index (AQI), while the concentrations of CO, NO₂, and SO₂ are still below the
applicable AQI values. It stated that air pollution in Jakarta worsened during the
implementation of Emergency CARE.

Keywords

Air Quality Covid-19 Pandemic IoT Statistical analysis

35

Car Logo Image Extraction and Recognition using K-Medoids, Daubechies Wavelets, and DCT Transforms

Pages: 431-442 English

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Abstract

Recognizing cars is a highly difficult task due to the wide variety in the
appearance of cars from the same car manufacturer. Therefore, the car logo is the
most prominent indicator of the car manufacturer. The captured logo image suffers
from several problems, such as a complex background, differences in size and
shape, the appearance of noise, and lighting circumstances. To solve these problems,
this paper presents an effective technique for extracting and recognizing a logo that
identifies a car. Our proposed method includes four stages: First, we apply the kmedoids
clustering method to extract the logo and remove the background and
noise. Secondly, the logo image is converted to grayscale and also converted to a
binary image using Otsu's method. Thirdly, the Daubechies wavelet with DCT
transforms is applied to extract a feature vector for each image. Finally, the Canberra
distance is used to match the tested image's feature vector to all feature vectors in
the database. The test results indicate the highest CRR, accuracy, and precision at
99.37%, 99.39%, and 99.80%, respectively. This system is applicable to intelligent
surveillance systems.

Keywords

CRR. Daubechies Wavelet DCT transforms K-Medoids Logo Recognition

36

Diabetes Diagnosis Using Deep Learning

Pages: 443-454 English

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Abstract

Hyperglycemia is a complication of diabetes (high blood sugar). This condition
causes biochemical alterations in the cells of the body, which may lead to structural
and functional problems throughout the body, including the eye. Diabetes retinopathy
(DR) is a type of retinal degeneration induced by long-term diabetes that may lead to
blindness. propose our deep learning method for the early detection of retinopathy
using an efficient net B1 model and using the APTOS 2019 dataset. we used the
Gaussian filter as one of the most significant image-processing algorithms. It
recognizes edges in the dataset and reduces superfluous noise. We will enlarge the
retina picture to 224×224 (the Efficient Net B1 standard) and utilize data
augmentation methods to enhance the dataset photographs, and balance the dataset
(which was quite uneven), to avoid overfitting. By using Transfer learning we save
training time by using a previously learned deep CNN and transfer learning weights.
In this research, EfficientNetB1 is compared against Xception, InceptionV3,
MobileNet, and ResNet50 as a deep transfer learning model. The proposed model's
accuracy, precision, recall, and f1-score are all examined. The EfficientNetB1 model
outperforms all others in terms of overall testing accuracy (86.1%), sensitivity
(87.24%), precision (97.6%), and F1-Score (89.32 percent). This approach might help
physicians diagnose Diabetic Retinopathy earlier.

Keywords

and Gaussian filter. deep learning diabetic retinopathy Efficient Net B1 Transfer learning

37

Predicting COVID-19 in Iraq using Frequent Weighting for Polynomial Regression in Optimization Curve Fitting

Pages: 455-467 English

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Abstract

The worldwide pandemic Coronavirus (Covid-19) is a new viral disease that
spreads mostly through nasal discharge and saliva from the lips while coughing or
sneezing. This highly infectious disease spreads quickly and can overwhelm
healthcare systems if not controlled. However, the employment of machine learning
algorithms to monitor analytical data has a substantial influence on the speed of
decision-making in some government entities. ML algorithms trained on labeled
patients’ symptoms cannot discriminate between diverse types of diseases such as
COVID-19. Cough, fever, headache, sore throat, and shortness of breath were
common symptoms of many bacterial and viral diseases.
This research focused on the numerous tendencies and projected expansion of the Iraq
pandemic to encourage people and governments to take preventive measures. This
work is an established basic benchmark for demonstrating machine learning's
capabilities for pandemic prediction.
The suggested approach for forecasting the number of COVID-19 cases can assist
governments in taking safeguards to avoid the disease's spread. We have demonstrated
the effectiveness of our strategy using publicly available datasets and models. A
polynomial network is trained on this premise, and the parameters are optimized using
frequent weighting. When compared to linear models, the polynomial model predicts
better and is more effective in forecasting COVID-19 new confirmed cases. As well,
it aims to analyze the spread of COVID-19 in Iraq and optimize polynomial
regression. In time series-based models, curve fitting using frequent weighting to
implement models such as linear regression and polynomial regression is utilized to
estimate the new daily infection number. The datasets were collected from March 13,
2020, to December 12, 2021. The continuous COVID-19 pandemic puts both human
lives and the economy at risk. If AI could forecast the next daily hospitalization
number, it may be a useful tool in combating this pandemic sickness.

Keywords

Covid-19 Linear Regression machine learning polynomial regression

38

Methodologies, Requirements, and Challenges of Cybersecurity Frameworks: A Review

Pages: 468-486 English

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Abstract

As a result of the emergence of new business paradigms and the development of
the digital economy, the interaction between operations, services, things, and software
across numerous fields and communities may now be processed through value chain
networks. Despite the integration of all data networks, computing models, and
distributed software that provides a broader cloud computing solution, the security
solution is missing or inadequate, and more work is required to strengthen security
requirements such as mutual entity trustworthiness, access controls, identity
management, and data protection, all aspects of detecting and preventing attacks or
threats. In order to combat cybersecurity threats, various international organizations,
academic universities, institutions, and organizations have been working hard to
establish cybersecurity frameworks (CSFs). This paper describes CSFs from the
perspectives of standard organizations such as ISO CSF and NIST CSF, as well as
several proposed frameworks from researchers, and briefly discusses their
characteristics and features. The common ideas described in this study could be
helpful for creating a CSF model in general.

Keywords

Cloud Computing Cybersecurity framework ISO-CSF NIST-CSF

39

A Recent Trends in eBooks Recommender Systems: A Comparative Survey

Pages: 487-511 English

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Abstract

The great progress in information and communication technology has led to a huge
increase in data available. Traditional systems can't keep up with this growth and can't
handle this huge amount of data. Recommendation systems are one of the most
important areas of research right now because they help people make decisions and
find what they want among all this data. This study looked at the research trends
published in Google Scholar within the period 2018-2022 related to recommending,
reviewing, analysing, and comparing ebooks research papers. At first, the research
papers were collected and classified based on the recommendation model used, the
year of publication, and then they were compared in terms of techniques, datasets
utilised, problems, contributions, and evaluation methods used. It was found that
many in-depth studies of book recommendation systems directly affect how those
systems grow. Many researchers interested in book recommendation systems can
learn about the many parts of the field by looking at how the study was put together.

Keywords

Recommender System; Book Recommender system; Recommendation Models; Hybrid system; collaborative filtering; content-based filtering.

40

Parallel Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Identifying Complex Communities in Biological Networks

Pages: 512-527 English

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Abstract

Identification of complex communities in biological networks is a critical and
ongoing challenge since lots of network-related problems correspond to the subgraph
isomorphism problem known in the literature as NP-hard. Several optimization
algorithms have been dedicated and applied to solve this problem. The main challenge
regarding the application of optimization algorithms, specifically to handle large-scale
complex networks, is their relatively long execution time. Thus, this paper proposes a
parallel extension of the PSO algorithm to detect communities in complex biological
networks. The main contribution of this study is summarized in three- fold; Firstly, a
modified PSO algorithm with a local search operator is proposed to detect complex
biological communities with high quality. Secondly, the variability in the capability
of PSO to extract community structure in biological networks is studied when
different types of crossover operators are used. Finally, to reduce the computational
time needed to solve this problem, especially when detecting complex communities
in large-scale biological networks, we have implemented parallel computing to
execute the algorithm. The performance of the proposed algorithm was tested and
evaluated on two real biological networks. The experimental results showed the
effective performance of the proposed algorithm when using single-point crossover
operator, and its superiority over other counterpart algorithms. Moreover, the use of
parallel computing in the proposed algorithm representation has greatly reduced the
computational time required for its execution.

Keywords

Biological networks Complex community structure Computational parallelization Local search operator Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm

41

Improved Naked Mole-Rat Algorithm Based on Variable Neighborhood Search for the N-Queens Problem

Pages: 528-545 English

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Abstract

Solving problems via artificial intelligence techniques has widely prevailed in
different aspects. Implementing artificial intelligence optimization algorithms for NPhard
problems is still challenging. In this manuscript, we work on implementing the
Naked Mole-Rat Algorithm (NMRA) to solve the n-queens problems and overcome
the challenge of applying NMRA to a discrete space set. An improvement of NMRA
is applied using the aspect of local search in the Variable Neighborhood Search
algorithm (VNS) with 2-opt and 3-opt. Introducing the Naked Mole Rat algorithm
based on variable neighborhood search (NMRAVNS) to solve N-queens problems
with different sizes. Finding the best solution or set of solutions within a plausible
amount of time is the main goal of the NMRAVNS algorithm. The improvement of
the proposed algorithm boosts the exploitation capability of the basic NMRA and
gives a greater possibility, with the emerging search strategies, to find the global best
solution. This algorithm proved successful and outperformed other algorithms and
studies with a remarkable target. A detailed comparison is performed, and the data
results are presented with the relevant numbers and values. NMRA and NMRAVNS
comparisons are implemented and recorded. Later on, a comparison between the
Meerkat Clan Algorithm, Genetic Algorithm, Particle Swarm Optimization, and
NMRAVNS is tested and presented. Finally, NMRAVNS is evaluated against the
examined genetic-based algorithm and listed to prove the success of the proposed
algorithm. NMRAVNS outperformed previous findings and scored competitive
results with a high number of queen sizes, where an average time reduction reached
about 87% of other previous findings

Keywords

artificial intelligence n-queens problems naked mole-rat algorithm Optimization variable neighborhood search

42

Investigating the Optimal Duration of the Sun Exposure for Adequate Cutaneous Synthesis of Vitamin D3 in Baghdad City: Depending on Fitzpatrick Skin Classification for Different Skin Types

Pages: 546-554 English

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Abstract

Vitamin D3 deficiency is regarded as a public health issue in Iraq, particularly
during the winter. Sun exposure is the main source of vitamin D3, where the surface
ultraviolet (UV) radiation plays an important role in human health. The amount of
time that must be spent in the sun each day was determined for the amount of exposed
skin, for all skin types, with and without sunscreen under clear sky conditions in the
city of Baghdad (Long 44.375, Lat 33.375). UV index data was obtained by TEMIS
satellite during the year 2021. From data analysis, we found that most days during the
year were within the high level of ultraviolet radiation values in the city of Baghdad,
and most of them were during the summer, where the person needed less time of
exposure to sunlight to obtain vitamin D3 in the case of exposing the face and hands
or the whole body. As a result, it can be concluded that the amount of UV radiation is
affected by several factors: depending on latitude, day of the year, time of day and the
season, body area exposed to the radiation, and use of sun protection factor. These
factors influence the time of sun exposure required to initiate cutaneous vitamin D3
synthesis.

Keywords

Skin type. sun exposure Sun protection factor Ultraviolet (UV) UV index Vitamin D3

43

Evaluating the Development of the Crescent Visibility Criteria

Pages: 555-566 English

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Abstract

Predicting the visibility of the lunar crescent drew great attention during the
Middle Ages, especially among Muslims, because the dates of religious practices in
Islam and calendars, in addition to being aware of the motion of the moon in its orbit,
are based on the lunar month.
This paper aims to study the development of crescent visibility criteria from ancient
times through the medieval period to the modern update. Some basics and
astronomical terms related to crescent visibility are presented and then a
comprehensive view of crescent visibility criteria is examined by surveying about 54
published research papers related to the issue of crescent visibility. Each research
paper is summarized, classified, and the results evaluated. Also, the previous studies
are divided into two parts, including the ancient and medieval ages, which depend on
the visual observations of the naked eye. We found that predicting the crescent’s
visibility started at the end of the Islamic era. The second part shows that at the
beginning of the twentieth century, engineering criteria were introduced into research
for the prediction of crescent visibility, then physical engineering criteria, weather
conditions, and observer location on the Earth's surface were introduced. Currently,
modern technologies have been introduced, such as CCD cameras and image
processing technology. The study concludes that there are no 100% accurate criteria
that correspond to the truth and completely match the observations, as these criteria
need improvements by increasing the number of observations and introducing modern
technologies to the crescent's visibility prediction.

Keywords

Crescent visibility lunar sun-moon elongation

44

Content Validity-Based Evaluation Criteria System for Siting Wind-Solar Plants

Pages: 567-582 English

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Abstract

The spatial assessment criteria system for hybridizing renewable energy sources,
such as hybrid solar-wind farms, is critical in selecting ideal installation sites that
maximize benefits, reduce costs, protect the environment, and serve the community.
However, a systematic approach to designing indicator systems is rarely used in
relevant site selection studies. Therefore, the current paper attempts to present an
inclusive framework based on content validity to create an effective criteria system
for siting wind-solar plants. To this end, the criteria considered in the related literature
are captured, and the top 10 frequent indicators are identified. The Delphi technique
is used to subject commonly used factors to expert judgments. Other factors are
considered according to expert recommendations. In this context, the assessment tool
was a combination of questionnaires and interviews with experts from scientific
backgrounds that reflect the measurement target. The item-level content validity index
(I-CVI) is applied along with the modified Kappa statistic (k*) to analyze expert
ratings and suggestions. The results demonstrate the superiority of 9 and 4 commonly
used factors and the suggested factors, respectively. The 13 criteria have achieved
high agreement among experts at I-CVIs ≥ 0.78 and k*s > 0.76. The conclusion can
be drawn that the modified Kappa statistic used in this analysis has a more significant
effect on eliminating irrelevant factors. The current methodology and consequences
might pave the way for making informed decisions to locate wind and solar farms

Keywords

content validity evaluation criteria system Kappa statistic site suitability. wind-solar farm

45

Horan Valley Basin Geomorphological Aspects Assessment by Integrating Hypsometric Analysis with Remotely Sensed Morphometric Characteristics

Pages: 583-592 English

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Abstract

The extraction, study, and accurate interpretation of the morphology database of a
basin are the basic blocks for building a valid geomorphological understanding of this
basin. In this work, a new approach is presented which is to use three different GIS
based methods to extract databases with specific geographical information and then
use the concept of information intersection to make a realistic geomorphological
perspective for the study area.
In the first method, data integration of remote sensing images from Google Map and
SRTM DEM images were used to identify Horan basin borders.
In the second method, the principle of data integration was represented by extracting
the quantitative values of the morphometric characteristics that were affected by the
geomorphological condition of the studied basin, such as the shape factor, circulation
factor, and relief ratio, then eliciting an optimal conception of the geomorphological
condition of the basin from the meanings and connotations of these combined
transactions.
The third method used the same principle by taking the optimal inferences from the
integration of the interpretation of the values of the Hypsometry integration
coefficients for each area in the basin separately with the integration value of the
drawing curve for the relative heights of the basin areas with their relative areas. It
was found, from the values of the coefficients, that the areas (A, B, C, D, and F) were
still in the early stages of youth. Whereas the E region was in the maturity stage and
the G region was in the monadnock stage of the geomorphological cycle. As for the
integral value of the curve, it indicated 48. 559 % erosion from the surface of the basin
only, and that its boundaries were subject to change and widening

Keywords

Geomorphology GIS Hypsometric Analysis Remote sensing SRTM DEM