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The idea of self-determination through independent state formation served as a crucial political principle for groups and organisations resisting colonial domination and the capitalist world system during the post-World War II era. Kurdish political movements and parties were no exception. They embraced the idea that, as a nation, they were entitled to a state that exercised exclusive territorial control. One of these parties was the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which emerged in the context of Turkey's Kurdish issue and developed into one of the most important political actors in Kurdistan of the last 40 years. In the 2000s, the PKK started to question whether or not self-determination ought to be conceptualised and practiced through state construction. As a result, self-determination became redefined in terms of societal self-organisation, an idea beyond that of the centralised nation-state. This article shows how the PKK has shifted the concept of self-determination away from the idea of the state and towards the self-organising and self-administering capabilities of all people. This queering of self-determination has enabled a radically new understanding of resistance: the building of a post-capitalist, post-state, and post-patriarchal society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anemia is a major significant public health issue that affects both pregnant and non-pregnant women throughout the world. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and severity of anemia, as well as its classification, based on MCV values in non-pregnant women residing in the Garmian province in the east of Iraq. Blood samples were collected from non-pregnant women between the ages of 16 and 49 years. Anemia is classified as mild, moderate and severe, and as microcytic, normocytic and macrocytic depending on the level of Hb or mean corpuscular volume (MCV) respectively. In this study sociodemographic and hematological characteristics were also evaluated. The results showed that 56% of the study samples were anemic, and of the total anemic patients, 54 (35%), 86 (55%) and 16 (10%) had mild, moderate, and severe anemia respectively. Also, of the total anemic patients, 102 (65%) had microcytic type of anemia, 51 (33%) had normocytic anemia and only 3 (2%) had macrocytic anemia. The majority of anemic women (77.6%) had normal RBC counts but low Hct, MCH and MCHC values of 76.3%, 79.5% and 81.4%, respectively. The results showed also that there was no significant difference between the severity of anemia and age groups, occupation, blood pressure, bleeding, and haemorrhoids. However, diabetics showed a significant difference in anemia severity with <0.0004 P-value. The results showed that anemia had become a major public health issue in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using experimental studies of mobile exploration technology, which includes modified methods of frequency-resonance processing, decoding of satellite and photographic images, vertical electron resonant scanning of the geological section, and the method of integral assessment of oil and gas content, the authors identified the potential of large prospecting blocks and licensed areas within the Shakal and Halabja blocks in Kurdistan. In the Shakal exploration area, the authors received oil responses from 3 intervals: 1) 2771-2794 m, 2) 2795.3-2815.45 m, and 3) 2834.40-2854 m in limestone sections. In Halabja exploration area, oil responses were obtained from 12 intervals: 1) 297-311.5 m, 2) 328-330 m, 3) 1190-1260 m, 4) 2018-2020 m, 5) 2059-2061 m, 6) 2132-2133 m, 7) 2192-2201 m, 8) 2249-2276 m, 9) 2307-2310 m, 10) 2317-2321 m, 11) 2326-2329 m and 12) 3310-3340 m. These results suggest that the proposed alternative exploration model can provide a more direct means of assessing the hydrocarbon potential of large exploratory areas, even before other geophysical investigations provide detailed information on possible targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Samples from Garmiyan located in Kurdistan region of Iraq were collected and investigated concerning their physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties. Eight samples from five different locations have been taken based on the experience of villagers who used these materials for bathing to soften their hair as an alternative to shampoo. Some of these materials are locally termed “Gllasar”, meaning “head mud”. The samples were analyzed by XRD, XRF, FTIR, STA, CEC, and concerning their C- and S-content. The results show that some of the materials can be classified as bentonites because they are predominantly composed of smectite with minor contents of carbonates, quartz, dolomite, kaolinite, plagioclase, chlorite, and feldspar. Three out of the eight samples showed smectite contents higher than 60 mass% and hence can be considered promising raw materials. Future work will be devoted to investigation of reserves in the deposit and application tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports results of gravity and magnetic surveys conducted for the first time in the western segment of the Zagros Fold‐and‐Thrust Belt in the Kurdistan Region. This study attempts to delineate deep structures in an area, which has not been surveyed before. CG‐5 Autograv gravimeter and G‐857 portable proton‐precession magnetometer were used to acquire gravity and magnetic data from 750 stations along over eleven traverses across and parallel to the Zagros trend (NW–SE). Six of these traverses are parallel to the Zagros trend, whereas the others are perpendicular to the trend of the other traverses and can be tied where they intersect. The total length of the traverses is about 1000 km. Tilt Angle of horizontal gradient method is used to detect regional gravity and magnetic lineaments. The mapped lineaments from regional gravity and magnetic surveys are divided into two categories: the NE–SW lineaments, which represent transversal faults in the study area, and the NW–SE lineaments, which represent the Zagros Thrust Faults, some of which may be linked to the inverted basement normal faults of Arabian passive margin (the NW–SE Najd Fault system). The results show that there is a relationship between the regional gravity and magnetic lineaments outlining the same deep geological features. The data presented here confirm the presence of regional longitudinal and transversal lineaments documented in other studies (e.g. Anah‐Qalat Dizeh Fault, Surdash‐Tikrit Fault, Sirwan Fault, Khanaqin Fault, Zagros Mountain Front Fault, Baranan Back Thrust Fault and High Zagros Reverse Fault) and outlines new lineaments not mapped before. Most of the detected regional lineaments in the current study coincide with the previously confirmed lineaments, which have played a significant role in the tectonic evolution of the Zagros Fold‐and‐Thrust Belt. As such, this study contributes to a better understanding of the subsurface structure of the Kurdistan segment of the Zagros Fold‐and‐Thrust Belt and probably the rest of the belt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevalence of obesity and overweight among children and adolescents has increased globally. Research in Iraq reported an increase in the rate of obesity and overweight among the Iraqi population. In a study of 620 students in basic school, the prevalence of overweight and obese students in Baghdad rose to 30.3%. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of parental education interventions through specific education programs to reduce obesity and overweight in basic school students. Materials & Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Sulaimani governorate of the Kurdistan region/Iraq among 15 basic schools. A total of 300 students aged 6 through 15 years, 150 in the intervention group and 150 in the comparison group, who were obese or overweight, were enrolled in this study. Participants were selected by applying stratified multistage cluster sampling from a total of 647 schools, and students were selected according to a probability proportional to the size. The intervention process included two parental education sessions focused on improving eating habits and physical activity of students. Data collection included anthropometric measurements, dietary habits, daily time spent on digital devices, and physical activity at the beginning and end of the school year. Results: A significant change in body mass index (BMI) was observed between the groups at the end of the intervention; 1.16 kg/m2 was reduced in the intervention group and 0.58 kg/m2 in the comparison group, P =0.001. There was a significant change in the mean waist circumference (WC) between the groups: (-3.49) centimeters (cm) in the intervention group and (-2.52) cm in the comparison group (P = 0.05). After the follow-up, the baseline intervention group's total mean physical activity score was 27.66 ±9.58 and significantly increased to 30.78 ±7.80 at the end of the year. While in the comparison groups, it increased from 27.58 ±8.51 to 28.00 ±7.32. Conclusion: Parental participation in education programs positively affected body mass index, dietary habits, and physical activity of obese and overweight students in basic school and lead to reducing body weight of students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic protozoan parasite that causes a life-threatening disease -- toxoplasmosis -- in immunocompromised individuals, including patients with cancer. This prospective cross-sectional study set out to determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in patients with cancer compared with that of healthy individuals. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in Sulaimani City of Iraq from November 2019 to May 2020. Anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies were measured in the blood samples of 113 patients with cancer (80 with solid organ tumors and 33 with haematological malignancies) entered to Hiwa Cancer Hospital and 82 healthy controls, who were referred to the Directorate of Blood Transfusion for blood donation, using chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay (CMIA). Results: The prevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG was 39.8% in the patient group and 24.4% in the control group, which amounted to a significant difference (P = 0.024). Only one case of anti-T. gondii IgM positivity was observed in the patient group, and no IgM seropositivity was reported in the control group. Moreover, the seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG was non-significantly higher (P = 0.102) in the patients with haematological malignancies (51.5%) than in those with solid organ tumors (35%). Occupation was the only risk factor which had a significant association with T gondii infection (odds ratio [OR]: 1.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.6746163 - 2.4282788, P = 0.029). Conclusion: The prevalence of T. gondii infection is higher in patients with cancer than in healthy individuals. Therefore, T. gondii screening in patients with cancer is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:Francisella tularensis is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes tularemia in both human and animals. Tularemia is a potential serious zoonotic disease that is transmitted by different routes, including tick bites. Materials and Methods: This study deals with investigating the prevalence of F. tularensis in the ticks of local animal farms in Kurdistan region since the farmers are normally in close contact with livestock. We used molecular methods for this purpose. A total of 412 tick and 126 blood samples were gathered from goat, sheep, and cow flocks. The existence of F. tularensis 16Sr RNA gene was examined in the samples using nested-PCR technique. Results: In the animal blood specimens, no F. tularensis was found. The incidence of F. tularensis was 1.7% (7 out of 412) in the tick samples, representing a very lower possibility of tuleremia infection. Moreover, the two subspecies of F. tularensis novicida and holarctica were identified based on the sequencing of pdpD and RD genes, respectively. The F. tularensis subsp. novicida was isolated from four species of ticks, Hyalomma anatolicum, Rhipicephalus annulatus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, and Ornithodoros spp., whereas the F. tularensis subsp. holarctica was isolated from Haemaphysalis parva and Hyalomma dromedarii species of ticks. Conclusion: Although its prevalence is very low, the isolation of F. tularensis subsp. holarctica from the ticks of farm animals suggests possible transmission of Tularemia through tick bite in Kurdistan region of Iraq. Ref: IR-UU-AEC-3/22. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Prevention of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) requires proper awareness and attitude towards the disease, and ways of transmission and prevention. This study aimed to investigate the awareness and attitude of students at Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences and University of Kurdistan towards AIDS in 2020. Material and methods: This was cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study. The study population was students at Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences (MUK) and University of Kurdistan (UOK) in 2020. 369 students were selected based on relative sampling. Data collection tool was international AIDS questionnaire (IAQ). Independent t-test and analysis of variance were applied for analysis. Results: The total IAQ score among students of MUK (75.38 ± 7.66) was higher than that of UOK students (71.17 ± 8.52) (p = 0.023). Although the total score in men (74.04 ± 8.14) was slightly higher than women (72.71 ± 8.50), there was no significant difference (p = 0.13). The difference in the scores of students living in single house with students living with their parents (p = 0.002) and students living in dormitories (p = 0.006) was statistically significant. The average score of undergraduates was the lowest, and doctorates the highest (p = 0.035). Conclusions: In light of the need to increase the awareness of ways of AIDS transmission, and appropriate attitudes towards people living with HIV/AIDS, with a focus on non-medical students, schemes should be designed and implemented to raise awareness and attitudes among people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient attempt was conducted to increase the mass production of seven local cultivars of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Masafik, Melisse, Radisho, Armishte, Diala, Halapja, and Dwarf pomegranate cultured in the Kurdistan region of Iraq from October 2021 to February 2023. Micropropagation technique was applied using eight combinations of plant growth regulators (PGRs) added to two media (MS and WPM). The results indicated that immersing explants in 70% Ethyl alcohol (EtOH) for (2 minutes) followed by immersion in (2.5%) Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) plus 3 drops of tween 20 for 13 mins. was the more suitable combination for explant sterilization. MS and WPM media salts supplemented together with eight combinations of PGRs were carried out to evaluate the more suitable combination for the initiation stage. The obtained data clarified that the 1/2 strength of the MS medium (1/2 MS) supplemented with 0.5 BAP plus 0.5 mg/l Kinetin increases the pomegranate explant initiation response percentage. WPM basal medium was the preferred media to be used in the multiplication stage. The impact of different levels and protocols of Cytokinins, Auxins, and Gibberellins were investigated by eight protocols including using BAP, GA3, and adenine sulfate. The outcomes indicated that adding both concentrations of BAP (0.5 and 1.0 mg/l) separately supported by GA3 and adenine sulfate in amounts of (0.3 and 30 mg/l) respectively again were the most suitable protocol that affected the multiplication of regenerated shoots when compared to using BAP alone. Valuable results were found in rooting response after 6 weeks by using 1/2 strength of MS media along with two levels of Auxins (NAA, and IBA). Moreover, the visual observation records that around 85-90% of rooted cultures were successfully acclimatized by transferring the cultures from in vitro to the exvitro environment. Finally, Dwarf cultivars exceed all the other cultivars in studded parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: G6PD deficiency, which affects 400 million individuals globally, is an X-linked hereditary enzymopathy that causes acute hemolysis after exposure to specific oxidative agents such as fava beans, more than 37 drugs, and infections viral or bacterial. Neonatal jaundice worsened by kernicterus is one of the condition's significant consequences. It can be prevented by avoiding the oxidative factors that cause a hemolytic episode alongside neonatal screening programs for early detection of afflicted individuals. Objectives: This research aimed at investigating the variability in clinical and biochemical manifestations among children with G6PDD. This is the first study to be carried out in the Zakho area. Methods: A cross-sectional study was used, recruiting 112 children attending Zakho Emergency Hospital from January 2022 to April 2023. Laboratory aids involved in obtaining CBC, liver enzyme activities, and blood grouping were all investigated. The IBM SPSS 26 program was used to analyze the obtained data. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between male and female patients in terms of age, time of admission, hemoglobin level, WBC count, and liver enzymes. The majority of cases who visited Zakho Emergency Hospital within 72 hours of exposure to the triggering agent were males (67.9%), with the most common clinical features being jaundice, dark urine, and abdominal pain. Conclusion: In this study, the three main symptoms in G6PD deficient patients with acute hemolysis were pallor, jaundice, and black urine. These signs appeared several hours or even days after consuming fava beans. The primary clinical symptoms and the patient's gender, family history, or prior newborn jaundice were not related, according to our research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several refinery complexes exist in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq that produce various kinds of petroleum products. During the refining process, different types of gases, metals, hydrocarbons, and liquids are discharged into the environment. This study aimed to determine the concentration of eight heavy metals in soil and plant leaves collected around the refineries along Erbil-Gwer Road on two occasions throughout the study period. Additionally, we aimed to evaluate the levels of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) in the soil samples from the area. The results of the analysis revealed significant differences (P<0.05) in the concentrations of Pb, Ni, Cd, Cr, As, and Mn between the dry and wet seasons in the soil samples. However, no significant differences were observed for Cu and Zn between the two seasons. The levels of metals for both periods were as follows: Mn> Cr> Zn> Ni> Cu> Pb> As> Cd in successive forms. Regarding the plant leaves, significant differences (P<0.05) were found between the study periods for Pb, Cu, Zn, and Cd, whereas no significant differences were observed for the other metals. Furthermore, the concentration of TPH in the soil samples located alongside the refinery effluent stream was higher compared to the other areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports on the results of an intervention to promote the reintegration of Yezidi children and youth in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, who had been in ISIS captivity or were displaced by ISIS, by increasing their cognitive complexity through experiential learning. The article explores the challenges faced by this demographic, including trauma and exclusion. It looks at the impact of a group-based curriculum designed to increase cognitive complexity (measured by integrative complexity), and discusses how the intervention addressed socio-cognitive needs in order to support reintegration. The intervention was piloted with young people associated with ISIS and those displaced by ISIS. Participants were thirty-three Yezidi males. Ages of participants ranged from 12-26 (Mean age = 17.77; SD = 3.69). Pre and posttest results show significant gain in IC in the overall sample (Cohen's d= 1.76, 95% CI [-1.86, -2.35]). Both cohorts showed significant gain, with a slightly higher gain among the cohort of internally displaced persons. Participants gained important skills such as increased empathy and emotional regulation. Implications for additional uses of this approach are discussed. Limitations: Small sample size (reflecting a small population of interest in the area), lack of control group, non-longitudinal study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to identify characteristics, location, cyst stage, and species/genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus s.l. complex in humans from the Kurdistan region, Iraq. Surgical removal of 25 echinococcal cysts from 22 patients in Dohuk and Zakho cities (January 2020 to December 2022) was analyzed. Methods: Characteristics of 22 surgically confirmed cystic echinococcosis (CE) cases, including anatomical site, cyst fertility, and patient demographics, were examined. Molecular analysis using mitochondrial NAD5 gene confirmed genotypes G1 or G3 of E. granulosus s.s., indicating sheep-dog-human transmission. Results: Liver (78.6% fertile, 21.4% sterile) and lungs (81.8% fertile, 18.2% sterile) were the most common anatomical sites for CE in females (59.1%) compared to males (40.9%). All analyzed samples belonged to genotypes G1 or G3. No statistically significant correlation was found between genotypes and variables such as fertility, location, and cyst stage. Conclusion: The study underscores the prevalence of genotypes G1 or G3 in the E. granulosus s.l. complex, confirming sheep-dog-human transmission in Kurdistan, Iraq. Recommendations include monitoring and control programs in sheep and dog populations and public health education campaigns to reduce the risk of acquiring CE in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astragalus L. is one of the main genera of blossoming plants, and its diversity of species and forms is well known. The Astragalus L. taxa make a significant contribution to the mountainous and steppe ecosystems of the Kurdistan region of Iraq. Although the species within this genus have been the subject of several molecular studies, the evolutionary relationships among these species remain unidentified. Despite extensive research, little is known about the phylogenetic relationships among the various subgenera of Astragalus. This research is intended to investigate the molecular variation of 33 species of the genus Astragalus L. found in the Kurdistan area of Iraq. For molecular validations, three separate techniques (nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA), inter simple sequence repeats (ISSR), and conserved DNA-derived polymorphism (CDDP)) were used. With respect to Astragalus L. indentations, universal ITS1 and ITS4 gene sequencing was used, and the discovered sequences were subjected to BLAST searches in the NCBI database. A phylogenetic tree was generated with two main clades. Regarding detecting genetic diversity between the taxa, 24 molecular markers (14 ISSR and 10 CDDP) were used. High values of polymorphic materials and gene diversity were detected. ISSR markers had an average of 22.71 polymorphic bands per primer, while CDDP markers had the highest mean values for polymorphic information content (0.37), Shannon's information index (0.27), expected heterozygosity (0.19), and unbiased expected heterozygosity (0.23). Cluster and principal coordinate analyses divided the Astragalus L. taxa into four main groups using the two molecular data sets. According to the results of the molecular variance analysis, the highest variation was detected within sections, with values of 92.01 and 89.48% for ISSR and CDDP markers, respectively. These outcomes suggest the effectiveness of molecular markers and the ITS region in determining and identifying genetic correlations between Astragalus species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the historical evolution and contemporary applications of photogrammetry and laser scanning in cultural heritage preservation, focusing on the restoration of the Shush synagogue in Iraqi Kurdistan. It traces the development of documentation techniques, highlighting photogrammetry's pivotal role and the impact of the digital revolution. The case study of Project Shush illustrates the practical use of geomatics techniques, advanced 3D modelling, and collaboration with NGOs and authorities. The methodology outlines the use of technologies like terrestrial laser scanners (BLK360, Zeb-Revo) and UAVs, emphasizing their mobility and accuracy. Results detail the project stages, showcasing the creation of a detailed 3D model and the use of Unreal Engine for visualization. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of 3D documentation in cultural heritage and celebrates the success of the Shush synagogue restoration as a testament to technological advancements in preservation. Our research has shown that the joining of different 3D object documentation technologies significantly improves the quality and speeds up the workflow. Comparison of partial point clouds in software CloudCompare on a case study of a smaller historic building showed differences in the internal structure in centimetres, while for the external parts that were covered with vegetation the differences reached up to decimetres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to investigate the role of accounting measurement and disclosure of social capital in improving the quality of accounting information which covers reliability, relevance, comparability, and consistency. The sample of this research paper is the industrial companies in Sulaymaniyah, the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRG). Accordingly, a hypothesis has been developed that accounting measurement and disclosure of social capital play a significant role in improving the relevance, reliability, comparability, and consistency of accounting information. The hypotheses were tested through a questionnaire that has been distributed among 350 employees. It was analyzed by using a stratified sampling methodology. The research methodology comprised demographic analysis, factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. The findings suggest that accounting measurement and disclosure of social capital have a significant and positive effect on the relevance, reliability, comparability, and consistency of accounting information. The research is limited to industrial companies in Sulaymaniyah, KRG. Thus, the findings cannot be comprehensive unless the other scholars further considered various companies, philosophies, agricultural or trading companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulletin of Ablai Khan KazUIRandWL: Series 'International Relations & Regional Studies' is the property of Kazakh Ablai Khan University of International Relations & World Languages and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Larq Journal for Philosophy, Linguistics & Social Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study evaluated soil erosion rates in the Shaqlawa district using the Geographical Information System (GIS)-based Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model. The primary objective was to identify areas within the district that are prone to significant erosion and develop appropriate soil conservation schemes accordingly. A combination of primary and secondary data from diverse sources was utilized to achieve this objective. The GIS-based RUSLE model used variables like soil erodibility (K), soil coverage (C), topographic effect (LS), rainfall runoff (R), and erosion control practices (P) to estimate the amount of soil that had been washed away in the study area. The study provided valuable information that can be used to plan and administer soil protection in the Shaqlawa district. The average yearly soil loss in the study region is estimated to be 65.66 t ha−1 year−1. The district is experiencing significant soil erosion rates, which may have detrimental effects on agricultural productivity, water quality, and environmental health. The analysis revealed that Balisan, Hiran, Shaqlawa center, and part of the Salahaddin subdistrict are the most affected areas, with high values of LS and R factors contributing to significant soil erosion rates. These results underscore the importance of soil protection and management efforts in the Shaqlawa district. The combination of the RUSLE with GIS and remote sensing techniques has been recognized as an essential, cost-effective, and highly accurate approach for estimating soil erosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of HBV infection varies from less than 1% in the developed world to more than 8% in some Asian countries, it has been studied in Iraq and it was found that HBsAg positivity was around 1%. The prevalence of HBV infections among people in Sulaimani Governorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq has not been measured before. Hence, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection in Sulaimani Governorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. A cross-sectional study was conducted to measure the prevalence of HBV infection in Sulaimani Governorate. A total number of 523 individuals were randomly selected from visitors attended the assigned health facilities (for any purpose) in various locations (residency) with different ages from 11 to 69 years from 5 October to 3 March 2021. Sera of participants were tested for Hbs Ag, total antiHBc Ab and anti-HBs Ab using the corresponding ELISA kits by Foresight ELISA kit, USA, the assay was conducted in the Sulaymaniyah Public Health Laboratory. Among 523 individuals, 47 (9%) were positive for HBcAb, 10 (1.9%) and 38 (7.3%) were positive for HBsAg and HBs Ab, respectively. The prevalence of HBV infection was 9% in Sulaimani Governorate. 86.2% of individuals were negative for all the HBV markers. The highest HBcAb prevalence was 11.1% age group < 17-years old while the lowest was 4% in age group > 50-years old. HBcAb positivity was higher in females compared to males (9.2% vs. 8.5%). The results revealed that only 38 (7.3%) of participants were positive for anti- Hbs Ab. Only 30 (5.7%) were sure about their childhood HBV vaccination with 2 (5.3%) are anti HBs Ab positive, 4 (10.5%) and 17 (44.7%) were positive for HBs Ag and HBc Ab, respectively. The findings revealed that Sulaimani Governorate /Kurdistan Region of Iraq is of high HBV prevalence when compared to other regions of Iraq. In our study, in addition to HBsAg, the anti-HBc antibody was also used as marker for identification of HBV infection. Most of population has low anti-HBs antibodies with deficit in knowledge about HBV vaccination and there is a need to schedule a programmed screening anti-HBs Ab tests to elucidate the need for booster doses of HBV vaccine to decrease the HBV prevalence in Sulaimani Governorate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kurdish nationalism has been a source of fraught debate in international politics. The politics of a Kurdish state remains highly contentious due to the wide assortment of nation-states involved in what is commonly known as the "Kurdish question." From Shaykh 'Ubaydullah's invasion of Persia in 1880 to the 2017 Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government's referendum on independence, Kurds have asserted themselves as the largest national group without a state. This analysis discusses the history of Kurdish nationalism, as well as the obstacles faced by modern Kurdish state-builders. As it stands, the prospects for an independent Kurdish state are dismal. A combination of geography, poor governance, and great power politics has made the Kurdish question a contentious, and seemingly unsolvable, problem. This analysis will assess the feasibility of an independent Kurdish state by examining Kurdish and Middle Eastern history, modern geopolitical conflicts, and the conditions in which a Kurdish state might emerge. The population of approximately 30 million Kurds live divided between Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and Syria. Despite their common ethnicity and the seemingly arbitrary colonial borders of the Middle East, the Kurds of each country have faced unique struggles in their quest for an independent Kurdish state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aims to identify the level of institutional excellence for central sports federations and excellent clubs in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq from the point of view of members of their administrative bodies, and to the differences in institutional excellence between central sports federations and excellent clubs in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The two researchers used the descriptive approach and the survey method, and the research sample was chosen by an intentional comprehensive inventory method, where the research sample included (201) members distributed to (91) members in central federations and (110) members in excellent clubs. The questionnaire was adopted as a means of collecting data by preparing a measure of institutional excellence for central sports federations and excellent clubs, and after the availability of scientific conditions in it, it was applied and the data was processed statistically. The data was statistically processed using the mean percentage, standard deviation, Alpha coefficient, and t-test for two independent samples using the statistical program (spss) in analyzing the data. The researchers concluded the following: 1- The central sports federations in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq have medium levels of institutional excellence that correspond to most of its dimensions, with the exception of strategic planning, which was at a high level in these federations. 2- The excellent clubs in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq possess high levels of institutional excellence that correspond to the level of all its dimensions in these clubs. 3- There are significant differences in the institutional excellence between the central sports federations and the excellent clubs in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and in favor of the excellent clubs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Human perceptions and behavioural responses to the risk of epidemics have always been crucial factors in studying and containing disease spread. This study aims to assess and understand the risk perception and the behavioural response of a sample of the population in the Kurdistan Region toward COVID-19. Methodology: A self-administered online survey (designed on Google Forms) was designed to get a rapid appraisal of the risk perception and behavioural response of people living in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region about COVID-19 from 17-25 November 2020. Results: A total of 390 individuals responded to the survey. Many respondents (65.6%) recognized COVID-19 as a high or very high threat level. The most frequently applied protective behaviours included avoiding spitting on the ground (76.2%), avoiding contacting ill persons (75.9%) and wearing face masks (75.6%). The main source of information about COVID-19 was Internet news (46.2%), followed by social media (44.9%). Significantly higher perceptions of the threat of COVID-19 were found among females (p = 0.004) and those having family members with chronic diseases (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Understanding the general public's risk perception toward the COVID-19 infection is essential for determining effective protective measures and can be used to guide proper preventive behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron ore deposits have been identified from Nawgwezany Mishao in the Shalair Valley area within the Iraqi Zagros Suture Zone (IZSZ) at NE-Iraq. The iron ore is mainly hosted by the Shalair Metamorphic Rock Group calcschist. The transmitted and reflected light microscope study and X-ray diffraction of the calcschist revealed that the predominance minerals are calcite, and sillimanite, while muscovite, graphite, k-feldspar, and opaque mineral represent minor constituents. Meanwhile, skarn host rock as a second host rock shows the mineral assemblages of clinopyroxene, quartz, hornblende, epidote, plagioclase, sericite, garnet, and opaque minerals. The field and petrographical data indicated that the iron ore includes magnetite, hematite, pyrite, martite, goethite, and limonite. Magnetite and hematite constitute the predominant minerals of the ores, which display variable shape sizes (from < 1 cm to > 10 m) and chiefly occurred as massive, veins, veinlets, and disseminated grains. Based on some magnetite grains, filled veins in the host rocks support the hydrothermal ore-forming processes. The paragenetic sequence of iron ore and the presence of dendritic manganese texture on the surface of some of the skarn host rocks, as well as the petrographical identification of calcite twins in calcschist of types one and two, are the three reasons that point to the hydrothermal skarn origin of the iron ore. Overall field evidence, morphology, mineralogy, textures, calcite twins, and dendritic manganese texture on the surface of calcshist host rocks suggest that the Nawgwezany Mishao iron ore is related to the hydrothermal skarn deposit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a framework for the electrification of an isolated rural residential area through a decentralized hybrid renewable plus diesel energy system. Solar/wind/diesel power units have been combined to supply continuous electrical power to a small isolated rural community in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The selection of the unit rates for an optimum cost -effective solution is evaluated. The framework activities include wind/solar speed/Radiation data collection via monitoring instruments on the test location and a time-based load forecasting calculation method. Based on the available data for the wind/solar attributes a control system is designed to manage the hourly synchronization of the three units. The system is tested by the MATLAB simulator with satisfactory results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SARS COV-2, the etiology of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, is a positive single-stranded RNA virus which was first identified in the city of Wuhan in 2019. Since its first discovery, several variants of the virus have been reported around the world. Identifying the emerged SARS-CoV-2 variants overtime is important since this could alter the pathogenicity and transmissibility of the virus as well as the efficacy of the vaccine. Here, 34 genome sequence of SARS COV-2 samples, which were collected between Feb. 2021 to Dec. 2021 in Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRG), were compared and analyzed in the spike (S) protein region. The nucleotide sequences were collected from the GISAID database (https://gisaid.org/), and the SARS-COV-2 variants were determined based on the mutations that they carry. Additionally, the frequency of each mutation was determined in the S protein region of the isolates. Overall, 29 mutations were detected in the sequence samples; the majority (44.8%) were located in the Nterminal domain (NTD) of the protein, whereas only 10.3% located in the ribosomal binding domain (RBD). D614G was found in all sequenced strains, followed by 67.6% mutation of P681H. Moreover, seven deletions were found in the NTD of the S protein, with 61.8% of the deletions was occurred at the position Y144. Alpha variants (B.1.1.7) were found to be dominant lineage during the period of this study, accounted for 65% of the sequence samples. Overall, our data support the speedy increase of the SARSCOV-2 genome diversity. Based on our knowledge, this is the first mega sequence analyses of different SARS-COV-2 strains from KRG of Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The climate of Kurdistan Region was subjected to many changes that led to a noticeable rise in temperatures. The current study aims to assess the climate of Kurdistan Region-Iraq by using Weather Generator program (MWG). We have chosen two different regions which are Erbil and Duhok governorates. The global climate database (MWG) was run for the three climate scenarios B1, A1B and A2 for 2020, 2050 and 2100. The average temperature was calculated and analyzed for the period (2000-2009) for Erbil and Dohuk governorates. The results have shown that Scenario B1 predicted the lowest rise in temperature compared to Scenario A2 which expected the highest rise in temperature. The predicted temperature of Erbil is higher than Dohuk for the three selected years and scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economic growth of Kurdistan region-Iraq is influenced by the traffic flowing expressed in vehicles miles traveled (VMT) because, they are correlated. To get smooth traffic, it is important to know the traffic volume characteristics and the origin - destination pattern. The vehicle traffic volume and the origin destination data at rural area near the outside 120-m ring road at a distance of about 400 m from the proposed interchanges (under construction) with the five main radial roads Kirkuk, Koya, Shaqlawa, Mosul, and Makhmur in Erbil city-Kurdistan region-Iraq is investigated. The classified vehicle volume count, and the origin-destination data on these five locations is collected. Vehicle traffic volume data is collected using video recording technique to determine the number, type and percentages of passenger cars, buses, trucks and other components of the traffic stream for the selected locations. The highest daily traffic volume is on Erbil - Koya highway (49175 vehicles for 24 hours) where, the percentage of heavy vehicles is about 14% and pickups about 21%. The origin - destination study is conducted through a curb-side survey for drivers and the data is collected directly by interview method. The origin-destination study is conducted to know and evaluate the trip characteristics of the traffic and to create the origin - destination matrix (O-D matrix). This matrix is then used to estimate the turning movements at the proposed interchanges. The vehicle occupancy, the purpose of trip and the trip frequency also were investigated. The vehicle occupancy rate is < 2.8 due to the road user's behavior. A projection is made for the future traffic operations which accounts for the diverted traffic, the generated traffic, the progress traffic, and the normal growth of traffic. The hourly expansion factors (HEF) are between 1.288 and 1.295 depending on the location. The p-factor is also determind and its values ranges between 3.59 and 7.15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores how documentary cinema in war contexts can challenge gender representations. To do so, we adopt a feminist and postcolonial approach to analyze the work of Catalan non-fiction filmmaker Alba Sotorra in Kurdistan, Afghanistan and Catalonia. In her films, Sotorra positions herself close to a series of subjects absorbed by wars and armed conflicts that (re)define their identities while acting beyond gender stereotypes. In particular, the paper analyzes the modes of production and representational strategies of two of Sotorra's latest feature films, Game Over and Commander Arian, documentaries with which the filmmaker aims at overcoming the visual exploitation of alterity. After an introduction to Sotorra, and a brief revision of the theory of postcolonial feminist cinema, our argument unfolds in four parts. Firstly, we reflect on cinematic representations of women and men at war; secondly, we introduce our methodology, based on in-depth interviews with the director to support our film analysis; thirdly, we contrast our hypotheses by means of close-readings of the films; lastly, we reflect on how the filmmaker aligns herself with intersectional feminism by using empathy and solidarity towards her subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article focuses on a particular aspect of media capture by examining how the Kurdistan Region of Iraq's media regulatory authorities and governmental bureaucracy use both formal and informal instruments and practices at their disposal to regulate press freedom. It reports on the findings of a mixed-methods approach: A qualitative document analysis of media regulations (such as laws, bills, and guidelines) was combined with 20 in-depth semistructured interviews with both state officials involved in media regulatory authorities and journalists, media managers, and editors-in-chief (N = 20). The findings show deliberate shortcomings in the contents of the laws as a result of pressure from the ruling political parties. In addition, they reveal the existence of informal structures and practices to control formal media regulations through patronage relationships and clientelism. We conclude by discussing the implications of these results with regard to the state of the regulatory chaos occurring within an unstable political environment. This includes imprecise laws and the irregular and unpredictable enforcement of media laws that are restricting journalists, to discern the boundary between legal and illegal. As such, the findings provide key insights on the different dimensions of regulatory capture in transitional democracies more broadly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Parental child maltreatment is a serious public health issue worldwide. As mothers take on a significant proportion of parenting duties in two-parent families, knowledge of maternal risk factors for child maltreatment is essential. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 135 mothers with their last child under 18 years in Kurdistan province were enrolled. A validated Persian version of the ISPCAN Child Abuse Screening Tool-Parent version, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Beck Depression Inventory were administered. Results: The prevalence of severe and moderate physical punishment was 78.5% and 71.9%, respectively. Psychological punishment was reported by 99.3% of respondents, and 48.9% reported neglect. A relationship was found between child physical and emotional abuse and low maternal education (p < 0.01), domestic violence (p = 0.02), maternal exposure to maltreatment during childhood (p = 0.03), maternal depression (p < 0.01), and maternal anxiety (p < 0.01). A relationship was also found between child neglect and residence in rural areas (p < 0.01), domestic violence, and low maternal education (p = 0.02). Conclusion: Maternal child maltreatment in Iran is increased in mothers with psychological disorders and those with certain demographic characteristics. Clinicians should be alert to these potential risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was one of the first vaccines developed for COVID-19 to be used in Iraq. While the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks, potential side effects remain major concerns for people and can increase vaccine hesitancy despite usually being short-lasting and mild. This study aimed to evaluate the side effects of Pfizer -BioNTech vaccination among vaccinated adults in Erbil city, Iraq. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out with a convenience sample of 401 subjects who received the Pfizer vaccine in nine public healthcare centres in Erbil, Iraq, on February 20th, 2022, and April 17th 2022. Data were collected through interviews with the patients using a questionnaire designed by the researchers. A p-value = 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of side effects was 84.4%. Among participants who experienced side effects, the most common was pain at the injection site (93.1% for the first dose and 88% for the second dose). For the first dose, the onset of side effects on the vaccination day (day zero) was reported by 78.9% of those experiencing side effects, and the duration was one day for 45.4% of participants. Severity was rated as mild by 54.3%, and similar results were found for the second dose. Analgesics were used following the first dose by 47% of participants, which resulted in good relief for 96.6% of patients using them, and similar results were found for the second dose. CONCLUSIONS: Most participants who received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine experienced side effects, the most common of which was pain at the injection site, which was reported for both the first and second doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on a study that examines how gender has been referenced in United Nations (UN), supranational and state documents on forced migration over the past 40 years. It is motivated by the premise that humanitarian protection discourses reflect broader institutional priorities and ideologies and may therefore expose gaps that reveal the relative importance given to the category of gender. The evidence presented below is the result of an extensive review of policy documents on Afghanistan, Kurdistan Region-Iraq (KRI), and Sri Lanka contained in the Refworld database. 1 The study sought to understand how gender is mentioned in terms of 1. governmentality — a top-down policy preference, which emphasizes the management of humanitarian protection; 2. empowerment — a bottom up policy preference, which emphasizes self-actualization and self-determination: we seek to understand how agency is expressed, including how opportunities for participation feature in policy discourse; 3. inclusion — the scope of coverage of different gender categories in policy discourse; and, 4. differentiation — the particularization of needs, wishes, and demands made by women, men, and girls and boys in displacement settings. The paper finds: • Where gender and displacement are discussed together, there is greater emphasis on governmentality, which crowds out other objectives, including advancing opportunities for gender empowerment and participation. • Internally displaced persons (IDPs) tend to be treated as an operational challenge alongside security and peacebuilding. The nature of their displacement is implicit in these documents, associated within the recurring themes of land, violence, empowerment, and livelihoods. The documents mention violence, but do not widely cover maternal, sexual, and reproductive health. • The documents offer little insight into the identities of the displaced — whether female, male, children, or members of LGBT communities — and are mostly silent on their specific protection needs. Overall, the paper finds remarkably little integration of gender within the humanitarian literature on forced displacement. In spite of much advocacy by the UN, the concept of gender has not been effectively disaggregated to address the specific needs of IDPs, especially in the discussion of children. This paper argues that taking gender seriously means recognizing how protection needs may be shaped by power relationships, and how policy and practice would be enhanced by a more nuanced understanding of how vulnerabilities and opportunities are structured by gender and the specificities of the displacement context. It recommends that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and partner UN agencies continue to find opportunities to bring humanitarian policy on gender and forced displacement into conversation in order to strengthen protection. To this end, it suggests that the concept of gender should be disaggregated to address the specific needs of displaced people, to reflect the wider range of identities of displaced people, and to foster opportunities for their empowerment, and participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Turkey, tea is a near-universally consumed beverage that also operates as a salient moral and political sign in social life. This article describes how tea functions as a "medium of value" in the country, circulating as both a physical commodity and a multivalent sign vehicle that is closely linked in popular imagination to modern modes of egalitarian sociability and the formation of Turkey's postwar multiparty democracy. In describing the semiotic ideologies that inform tea's uptake as a sign and its place in Turkey's modern public culture, the article also traces the historical-material processes that have made tea into both a symbolic model of communal solidarity and a salient sign of national difference—a contested semiotic medium of representation that informs popular discourses on public virtue and democratic politics and that is prominently mobilized in divergent public making projects in contemporary Turkey and North ("Turkish") Kurdistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater availability in the Zakho Basin faces significant challenges due to political issues, border stream control, climate change, urbanization, land use changes, and poor administration, leading to declining groundwater quantity and quality. To address these issues, this study utilized the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and geospatial techniques to identify potential groundwater sites in Zakho. The study assigned weights normalized through the AHP eigenvector and created a final index using the weighted overlay method and specific criteria such as slope, flow accumulation, drainage density, lineament density, geology, well data, rainfall, and soil type. Validation through the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC = 0.849) and coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.81) demonstrated the model's accuracy. The results showed that 17% of the area had the highest potential as a reliable groundwater source, 46% represented high-to-moderate potential zones, and 37% had low potential. Flat areas between rivers and high mountains displayed the greatest potential for groundwater development. Identifying these potential sites can aid farmers, regional planners, and local governments in making precise decisions about installing hand pumps and tube wells for a regular water supply. Additionally, the findings contribute to the development of a sustainable groundwater management plan, focusing on improving water usage and protecting water-related ecosystems in the region. Identification of the optimum influencing factors, arrangement of the factors in a hierarchy, and creation of a GWPI map will allow further planning for groundwater preservation and sustainability. This project can be conducted in other areas facing droughts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Ornithogalum harbrum is described as a new species from Sulaimaniyah province, Kurdistan of Iraq. The morphological characteristics of the new species are given and those of the closely similar species O. sanandajense and O. arcuatum are discussed. Notes on the ecology and conservation status of O. harbrum are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction, Inadequate physical activity is a contributing factor to various noncommunicable diseases. The benefits of regular exercise have been well demonstrated, and evidence shows that adults are becoming more sedentary and obese due to a lack of opportunities for and obstacles to exercise participation. Objective: The study aimed to identify physical exercise's perceived benefits and barriers among schoolteachers. Methods: The exercise benefits and barriers were assessed by conducting a crosssectional design with 500 schoolteachers in Duhok City in Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Teachers enrolled using stratified simple random sampling from September 15th, 2021 to April 1st, 2022. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, perceived benefits and barriers of exercise, and physical activity levels were obtained. Results: Most schoolteachers (65.8%) had a low physical activity level. Exercise improves the appearance of the body as well as disposition; mental health, a functioning cardiovascular system, flexibility, and ability to sleep better at night were the most important perceived benefits of exercise. Furthermore, "too few exercise places" was the most significant barrier to exercise, followed by other significant barriers including "inconvenient exercise facility schedules," "fatigue," "too far away from exercise places," "tiredness," "time limitations," "family responsibilities," and "being embarrassed to exercise." There was a significant difference between PA levels and exercise benefit, and the barrier score was p<0.0001. Conclusions: Teachers have high perceptions of the physical and psychological benefits of exercise. However, perceived barriers have a higher impact on exercise habits and are linked to a lack of motivation and a lack of self-management to schedule physical exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to determine the location of the apical foramen (AF) in relation to the root surfaces of human permanent premolar teeth in the population of Iraqi Kurdistan using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. Methods: CBCT images from 103 patients from the Iraqi Kurdistan region were evaluated. Multiplanar images were captured to check the position of the AF in relation to the root canal surfaces of premolars. The data were analyzed using Fisher's, Chi-square, and t-tests. Results: The most common AF location of all premolars was central, followed by distal and then mesial, except for the mandibular right second premolar where central and mesial were the most prevalent. The mean distance between the AF and anatomic apex on the right side of all the first premolars was 0.6205 mm. That of the second premolars was 0.6205 mm in males and 0.5854 mm in females. There was no significant difference between both sides and genders. Conclusion: In the Kurdistan region of Iraq, the most common location for the apical foramina of all premolar teeth is central AF, followed by the distal location. A minimum 1 mm of distance from the anatomic apex in mandibular premolars could be appropriate for root canal therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Qorveh batholith, in the N-Sanandaj-Sirjan Zone, comprises several gabbroic, dioritic and granitic masses intruded the Jurassic metamorphic assemblage (i.e., schist, amphibolite and marble). In spite of a number of studies which have been carried out on the various aspects of these rocks, but none of them has been studied the Mixing/Mingling model. Thus, the purpose of present study is to examine the development of the magmatic mixing process in the rocks under study based on geochemical data obtained from the enclaves and their host rocks as well as their field relationship.Analytical MethodIn order to study the geochemical properties of intrusive rocks, 10 samples of enclaves and their host rocks. The rock composition with the least amount of alteration was selected and sent to the Pennsylvania State University of (USA) to determine the amounts of major elements by ICP-AES method, and rare and rare earth elements by ICP-MS method.Field observationsThe enclaves, in the intrusive masses under study, are finer than that of their host rock. Therefore, they belong to the group of mafic fine-grained enclaves or microgranular mafic enclaves. (MMEs). The (MMEs) are in rounded and elliptical shapes in the host rocks and generally they have a sharp contact with their host and are composed of igneous minerals.PetrographyThe host rocks include granite, granodiorite and monzonite, and the enclaves are dioritic and gabbroic in composition. There are similar minerals in the enclaves and their host rocks, but they often differ in the amount of minerals. They are mainly composed of mafic mineral and plagioclase. While their host rocks are characterized by smaller amounts of these minerals, the host rocks instead have higher amounts of quartz alkali feldspar. The transfer of plagioclase crystals at the common boundary of the enclave and the host rock is evidence of the magmatic mixing process in the nature of the intrusive masses studied. A number of enclaves contain megacrystals of feldspar potassium and quartz taken from the host rocks. This supports the formation of enclaves by mixing.GeochemistryGeochemical studies indicate that these rocks are metaluminous, belonging to calc-alkaline magma series, having I-type characteristics. In Harker diagrams, mafic enclaves have higher MgO, TiO2, P2O5, Na2O, FeO(t), Al2O3, MnO and CaO contents than that of the host rocks, and lower K2O and SiO2 contents. The higher contents of CaO, MgO and FeO(t) in the enclaves, compared to their host, confirms their more mafic nature, which is usually proportional to the higher contents of mafic minerals in the modal of the enclaves than that of the host. The enrichment of the studied enclaves in Co, Cr, Ni display that these rocks are globules of mafic magmas mingling to felsic type.DiscussionAccording to field observations as well as petrographic studies, the effective factor in the evolution of magma forming intrusive masses has been mentioned as magmatic mixing. The presence of mafic fine-grained enclaves with evidence of disequilibrium textures such as feldspar with poikilitic texture, the presence of mafic masses and needle apatite, small blades-shaped plagioclase within large plagioclase or two types of plagioclases, and zoning all confirm magmatic mingling/ mixing processes. Considering that the magnesium number (Mg#) in the mantle is about 0.7 and the studied enclaves with a high magnesium number of 0.52-0.62 are evidence of the involvement of mantle-derived mafic magma. High values of Mg# in enclaves compared to their host rock (0.34-0.48) shows the mixing of magmas from the mantle with the crustal magmas. Magma mixing model has also been considered by geochemical differentiation diagrams. The trend of the samples is a curve and indicates that the effective process in magma evolution is most likely magmatic fusion. Numerous studies have shown that mafic microgranular enclaves are globules of a mantle derived mafic magma that crystallize rapidly in the injected felsic magma from the crust and, as a result, become more viscous, forming separated magmatic bubbles. In addition to the mentioned geochemical features, the enclaves are poor in LREE and LILE and enriched in Ti compared to the host rocks. Therefore, they seem to have originated from two different magmas and are placed together due to magmatic mixing.ConclusionThe host rock units in the studied intrusions include granite, granodiorite, monzonite and gabbroic, dioritic enclaves. The constituent magma of this complex is in I- type, metaluminous and is in the calc-alkaline series. Based on the studies, the dominant process in the evolution of magmatic mixing. Some new findings include the presence of reversals in submerged slabs and the penetration of fleshy compounds. Which naturally have different temperatures and compositions compared to higher crustal horizon magmas, provides conditions for the occurrence and the development of the magmatic mixing process.AcknowledgementsThis paper is a part of the dissertation of the first author and therefore the authors acknowledge the financial support of the research assistant, Bu Ali Sina University.

Background and objective: Evaluating patients with blunt abdominal trauma remains one of the most challenging aspects of acute trauma care. CT scan of abdomen remains the standard imaging modality for evaluation of abdominal trauma cases. The aim of this study is to evaluate CT scan findings in blunt abdominal trauma victims with respect to solid organ injuries, hollow viscus injuries, associated thoracic and abdominal wall injuries, associated hemoperitoneum, cause of injury and type of management. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 96 hemodynamically stable patients with history of blunt abdominal trauma who underwent CT scan examination in Rozh-halat Emergency Hospital from June 2021-January 2022; using a 64 multi-detector helical slice CT scanner. Data analysis were performed on patient’s demographics, mode and type of injury, CT scan findings and severity scorings, associated injuries and type of management. Results: The mean age of enrolled cases was 28.6 ± 18.6 ranged from 4-70 years. About two third (63.5%) were males and one third were females (36.5%). The most common cause of trauma was road traffic accident (64% of cases). Out of 96 trauma cases; 87.5% of patients had positive CT findings of which 50% had hemoperitoneum, 21.9% had pneumoperitoneum, 66.7% had no hallow viscous involvement, while 33.2% had hollow viscus involvement. One third of cases had associated abdominal wall injury. 56.4% of patients had multiple organ injury. Regarding solid organ injury; 66.7% of cases had spleen injury, (36.5%) had liver injury, Pancreas was involved in 12.5% of cases. RT& LT – kidneys showed grade 2 injury in (9.4%) & (6.3 %) respectively. Half of patients with positive CT scan findings had no lower chest injury findings. This study showed that 43.8% of cases were managed conservatively, 45.9% underwent laparotomy, the incidental finding of intra-operative hemoperitoneum which was negative in CT scan was only 1%. Conclusion: CT imaging is the diagnostic tool of choice for the evaluation of blunt abdominal trauma in haemo-dynamically stable patients as it can assist in detecting and evaluating other co-existing injuries such as lower thoracic, pelvic and spine injuries apart from its main role in accurate identification of intra -abdominal injuries and associated bleeding.

Abstract Walter Benjamin published his influential essay ‘Critique of Violence’/‘Zur Kritik der Gewalt’ in 1921, and the work has troubled and provoked thinkers across disciplines for over a century now. This Forum gathers a group of scholars in philosophy, political science, international relations and legal studies to reflect on the actuality of Benjamin’s essay for contemporary critical theory. Melany Cruz, Kaveh Ghoreishi and Sara Minelli engage Benjamin on ‘divine violence.’ As Cruz notes, lynching in contemporary Mexico has become a recurrent phenomenon in nota roja outlets. Due to its brutality, perceptions of lynching have been reduced to a form of uncivilised and irrational crime. In opposition to this perspective, Cruz theorises the political dimension of the violence of lynching by drawing from Benjamin and argues that such violence symbolically and affectively dramatises the suspension of ‘mere life’ in which the communities enacting the lynchings are immersed in the current conditions of neoliberal Mexico. In this way, it is possible to claim that lynching, in Benjamin’s terms, constitutes a form of divine violence that has the capacity to reveal and communicate the need to end the fear- and anger-provoking condition of ‘mere life.’ In the second section, Ghoreishi and Minelli propose a reading of ‘divine’ as opposed to ‘mythical violence’ that brings out the radical elements of some contemporary struggles by interpreting some examples of strike which took place in Iranian Kurdistan (Rojhilat) in the last forty years. They understand the revolutionary ‘general strike’ considered by Benjamin as what Jesi has called a ‘suspension of time,’ bringing ‘normal’ economic and social relations to a halt. In this sense, the general strikes in Kurdistan can be said to bring the mythological temporality of oppression to an end. These struggles, in which new forms of collectivity have emerged and been experimented, should, therefore, be seen as anticipations of the ‘divine violence’ that puts an end to ‘mythical violence.’

This article explores the manifold lineages of crisis and revolt currently afflicting the Islamic Republic of Iran, most recently bursting forth in the 2022/2023 national uprisings where women-led mass protests and forceful rejection of mandatory veiling laws captured global attention. This interdisciplinary piece of research, bringing together several different theoretical approaches and historical literatures, interrogates and reflects upon what I call following Stuart Hall a 'conjunctural crisis' along the four major axes of (1) gender oppression and social reproduction; (2) the ethnocentric, dominative, and centralising nation-state and the still unresolved 'ethno-national question'; (3) 'religious democracy' and the impasse of the Reform movement; and (4) authoritarian neoliberalism and the Islamic Republic's political economy of predation. The article aims to show not only how these distinct crises have longer and more complicated lineages than might initially appear to be the case but also demonstrate how they have mutually constituted and shaped one another over the course of several decades, constituting part of a larger political and social system. Moreover, it aspires to provide a systematic and historically contextualised account of ongoing emancipatory struggles for democratic rights and liberation in today's Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to corporate social responsibility (CSR), oil companies operate in socially responsible ways and engage more with local communities to ensure environmental protection and community welfare. In the past few years, the Kurdistan Region paid great attention to CSR. The main aim of this study is to provide a critical analysis of the CSR legal framework of the Kurdistan Region and survey the impact of CSR implementation on economic growth in Kurdistan, with a view to ascertain legal complications and underlining the weaknesses. The study clarifies that CSR is not limited to purely voluntary undertakings by companies but extends to mandatory government regulation and contractual commitments. In the Kurdistan Region, there is no legislation to make CSR mandatory or regulate CSR, and there is no penalty for non-complying companies. However, most of Kurdistan's available production sharing contracts (PSCs) oblige contractors to pay capacity building bonuses and payments but due to the lack of legal regulation, their adopted amounts and types vary, and a number of PSCs require no capacity building bonus. Finally, the study suggests that CSR should be enforced by issuing a specific law and also propounds numerous recommendations for the Kurdistan Region to minimize legal contentions and problems relating to CSR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the characteristics of the water in Darbandikhan Lake and its rivers in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. For this purpose, 25 samples were collected seasonally and analysed for 36 physiochemical parameters. The proportions of physiochemical parameters exceeding the WHO standards in the samples with their highest exceedances were 9894% for Al, 198% for Mn, 40% for Pb, 1.6% for pH, 3250% for PO4, 11.8% for Sr, 155% for T.Alk, 7813% for turbidity, 1188% for Ti, 1033% for Tl and 1293% for V in the river water and 120% for Co, 74% for Cr, 4485% for Fe and 9% for K in the lake water. The pollution sources were designated by multivariate statistical analysis as being related to industrial and domestic waste, solid waste disposal, fertilisers and organic contamination from agricultural and natural sources. The water quality index (WQI) results were 22.3 to 721.3 for drinking, 13.9 to 86.2 for irrigation, 1.4 to 299.5 for livestock, 71.5 to 1754.4 for the textile industry, 20.7 to 237.9 for recreation and 64.6 to 1867.4 for aquatic life. The irrigation water quality index (IWQI) results were excellent for sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), and for the US salinity scale, all water samples fell into the medium salinity-low sodium category (C2-S1) in all seasons, except for all Chaqan River samples. The Tanjaro River sample in spring fell in the relatively high salinity-low sodium category (C3-S1), excellent and good for sodium percentage (Na%), suitable to moderate for permeability index (PI%), suitable to unsuitable for magnesium hazard percentage (MH%), suitable for Kelly Index (KI) and safe to unsuitable for residual sodium carbonates (RSC). The Sirwan River, Tanjaro River and Zmkan River took first to third place in both the annual average pollution share ratio and the discharge. While the Zalm River ranked fourth in discharge and fifth in pollution share ratio, the Chaqan River was the reverse. The highest pollution share ratio was 64.3 for the Sirwan River in summer, and the lowest was 0.7 for the Zalm River in autumn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nugra-Salman prison castle is a vivid reminder of the Kurdish genocide at the hands of the Iraqi regime under Saddam Hussein. It was used as a temporary detention centre for several thousand Kurds before many of them were executed or buried alive in the deserts of Iraq. The castle is still standing despite damage to its inner and outer walls. It is a reminder of the cruelty and savagery of the former Iraqi regime toward the Kurdish people. It should be turned into a site of dark tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]