University of Kufa

This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of side friction (SF) elements on urban traffic flow in Hilla City, Iraq, with a particular focus on how both static and dynamic SF elements such as parked vehicles, pedestrian activities, and irregular vehicular entry–exit maneuvers affect traffic performance and road capacity. The research aims to address the gap in the literature regarding the combined effects of these elements, particularly in rapidly urbanizing cities with diverse traffic conditions. Using data collected from strategically positioned video cameras on four key urban roads, the study analyzes traffic behavior during peak and off-peak hours over multiple days. The Roadside Friction Index and Friction units were employed to quantify the intensity of SF impacts, and regression models were developed to predict changes in traffic behavior under varying SF scenarios. Findings indicate that high levels of SF can lead to significant reductions in vehicle speeds by up to 49% during peak hours, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Practical recommendations include stricter parking regulations, the enhancement of pedestrian infrastructure, and the integration of SF data into Intelligent Transport Systems for real-time traffic management. This research provides valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers in developing effective traffic management strategies that mitigate the adverse effects of SF and enhance road safety and efficiency in rapidly developing urban environments.

The city of Al-Najaf encounters significant challenges pertaining to traffic congestion within its street network. The aim of this study is to evaluate specific sustainable indictors of Al-Najaf’s main urban roads. The objective of this study is to determine the level of traffic performance, traffic pollution, noise, and public transportation. Field data were gathered using video cameras to measure traffic flow, while portable sound meters measured the accompanying noise levels and air quality detectors and Grey Wolf devices were employed to evaluate pollution emissions. Arc GIS Pro 3.2 has been used for facilitating the required information of road length and point data location. The results indicated that the sustainable indicators such as the level of pollution is up to the unhealthy level. Whereas the average noise level exceeds the acceptable level by 15%. Finally, the indicator of public transportation is remarkably low, as it was noted that there was a complete absence of public transportation, and the percentage of buses was 1%. This study suggests adding a green zone along with the major road in the city.

This study explores the electronic, optical, and electrochemical properties of novel D–π–A organic dyes with different π-bridges using DFT and TD-DFT calculations, emphasizing their potential as efficient light harvesters. Geometric analysis shows that the dyes’ bond lengths and dihedral angles support intramolecular charge transfer, light absorption, and stability. The π-bridge improves electronic coupling, promoting conjugation and electron mobility. Frontier molecular orbital analysis reveals HOMO and LUMO levels aligned with TiO2 conduction band and the electrolyte's redox potential, ensuring efficient electron injection and dye regeneration. The dyes’ energy gaps (2.1151–2.5426 eV) enable effective visible-light absorption. Molecular orbital distribution supports charge separation for efficient donor-to-acceptor electron transfer. Global reactivity parameters indicate high stability and enhanced charge transfer capabilities. Molecular electrostatic potential and reduced density gradient analyses highlight charge distribution and non-covalent interactions that improve stability and electronic properties. UV–Vis spectra (543.021–624.762 nm) reveal enhanced light-harvesting efficiency via n → π* transitions enabled by the π-bridge. Electrochemical parameters, including oxidation potential and free energy changes, confirm their suitability for DSSCs. These dyes demonstrate significant potential for renewable energy applications, particularly in DSSCs.

The aim of recycling polymers in general and non‐toxic or environmentally friendly polymers in particular is not only to minimize the environmental impact of these wastes but also to create applications that promote the concept of sustainability, and one important application in this field is the production of membranes from these recycled polymers. In this work, polypropylene waste from prosthetic manufacturing was dissolved using xylene as a solvent. This step will make it ideal for post‐processing by dip coating technique. A micropore system provides a high level of permeability and ensures that liquids are able to flow effectively through the system as well as safely. As part of the preparation of the membranes, various conditions (including heated and unheated recycled polypropylene waste) were employed in order to maximize the membranes' strength, porosity, and roughness, as well as their adhesion to the substrate. An evaluation of several membrane characteristics was carried out, including the morphology of the surface, the porosity, the permeability, and the crystallinity of the membrane. Based on the results from the experiments, it was found that dip‐coated membranes had the highest porosity percentages and surface morphologies. It is possible that the polymer and membrane industries may benefit from this research as they move towards a circular economy since it made sustainable membranes available and added value to plastic waste.

In this era, digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain are gaining popularity in research and academia. The supply chain management application is the key to achieving many benefits from AIoT and blockchain technology. However, these technologies have many issues, such as sustainability, a green environment, and multi-constraints (e.g., time, energy, cost, and CO2) for supply chain management applications. This paper presents sustainable, secure blockchain-assisted AIoT and green multi-constraint supply chain systems. Initially, we present a secure and sustainable methodology that securely validates the supply chain management system data. For the green environment, we consider the problem a combinatorial problem consisting of different constraints such as time, energy, cost, and carbon dioxide (CO2). To solve this problem for supply chain management jobs, we present a multi-constraint genetic algorithm deep convolutional neural network (MCGA-DCNN) algorithm methodology. The objective is to reduce total processing time, total processing energy consumption, cost, and the CO2 environment as a green environment for supply chain management jobs. The genetic algorithm is evolutionary, where the fitness function optimizes the multi-constraint weights at the runtime based on DCNN and provides the optimal solutions for jobs. Simulation results show that MCGA-DCNN minimized the time, energy, cost, and CO2 and securely validated all transactions for all supply chain management jobs compared to existing schemes.

Iranian-Soviet relations have experienced significant historical turning points, beginning in the 19th century. The relationship was marked by considerable complexity and tension across political, economic, and social fields, including during the Constitutional Movement (1905-1911) when Tsarist Russia opposed constitutional trends and individual freedoms, and later during the reigns of Reza Shah Pahlavi and his son, Mohammad Reza.

Background End-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to life-threatening complications and is caused primarily by CKD and cardiovascular issues. CKD is characterized by the inability of the kidneys to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. This study investigated the associations of the genetic variants XRCC1 rs1799782 (C194T) and ERCC2/XPD rs25487 (Q399R) with CKD susceptibility in Iraqi patients and related biochemical changes. Methods The research was performed from 25/01/2023 to 30/06/2023, we analyzed the genetic associations of two SNPs of DNA repair genes (XRCC1 and ERCC2/XPD) in a case‒control study involving 219 CKD patients diagnosed by a nephrologist and 246 healthy controls. Data and blood samples were collected, and the genotype distribution frequency was determined via the PCR-based high-resolution melting (PCR-HRM) technique. Results This study included 465 participants, with 219 CKD patients and 246 healthy controls. XRCC1 and ERCC2/XPD gene polymorphisms were significantly associated with CKD susceptibility in Iraqi patients (p = 0.025 and p = 0.0001, respectively). Multivariate linear regression confirmed the associations of rs1799782 G/A and rs13181T/G with CKD, adjusting for sex, age, and BMI. Moderate and statistically significant linkage disequilibrium (0.43) between the two SNPs was observed, indicating nonrandom associations. Conclusion XRCC1 (rs1799782) and ERCC2/XPD (rs13181) polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of CKD. The AG haplotype model is particularly related to increased CKD susceptibility in Iraqi patients, suggesting the importance of these DNA repair gene polymorphisms in CKD risk assessment.

Background Spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a rare presentation in healthy pediatric patients due to a myriad of conditions. Among them, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) stand out for their potential to rupture and risk of death due to hemorrhagic strokes. A complication to consider in patients post ICH due to AVMs is the development of paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) and cerebral salt wasting (CSW), as these complications further delay recovery and may lead to devastating results if left untreated. Case Description We report a rare case of a 13-year-old female who developed a nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage due to a rupture of left AVM. She was managed with a decompressive craniotomy and further stabilized with two sessions of embolization. Following surgical intervention, she developed PSH and CSW, recovering through medical management. Conclusion By highlighting this unique presentation in a previously healthy patient, we aim to deepen our understanding of the complexities surrounding fewer known causes of pediatric ICH, particularly in relation to nontraumatic AVMs, and to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. Close monitoring and prompt assessment are required to prevent further complications in patients with PSH or CSW.

Objectives This study was conducted to determine the periodontal health status and the level of creatine kinase (CK) of the study and control groups and to correlate the level of this enzyme with clinical periodontal parameters in the study and control groups. Materials and Methods This study included 80 male participants aged 35 to 55 years, divided into four groups: poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus with chronic periodontitis (G1), well-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus with chronic periodontitis (G2), chronic periodontitis without diabetes (G3), and periodontally healthy controls (G4). Clinical periodontal parameters (plaque index, gingival index, periodontal pocket depth [PPD], and clinical attachment loss) and salivary CK levels (measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) were compared between groups. Results All clinical periodontal parameters and CK levels were highest in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus with chronic periodontitis patients, and the enzyme level revealed highly significant differences between all pairs of the study and control groups. There were nonsignificant weak correlations of CK with all clinical parameters in all groups except a significant moderate positive correlation with PPD in the nondiabetic with chronic periodontitis group. Conclusion It was concluded that poor glycemic control negatively impacts periodontal health status. CK is considered a good biochemical marker of periodontal tissue destruction and is useful in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of periodontal diseases.

Background Patients with Long COVID (LC) often experience neuropsychiatric symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), collectively referred to as the physio-affective phenome of LC. Activated immune-inflammatory pathways and insulin resistance significantly contribute to the physio-affective phenome associated with LC. Methods In a cohort of 90 individuals, categorized into those with and without LC, we evaluated, 3-6 months following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, the correlations between the Hamilton Depression (HAMD), Hamilton Anxiety (HAMA), and Fibro-Fatigue (FF) Rating Scale scores, and serum C-reactive protein (CRP), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), galanin-galanin receptor 1 (GAL-GALR1) signaling, insulin resistance, insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI1), S100B and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). Results HAMD, HAMA, FF scores, CRP, PGE2, GAL-GALR1 signaling, insulin resistance, PAI1, NSE, and S100B are all higher in people with LC compared to those without LC. The HAMD/HAMA/FF scores were significantly correlated with PGE, CRP, GAL, GALR1, insulin resistance, and PAI1 levels, and a composite score based on peak body temperature (PBT) – oxygen saturation (SpO2) (PBT/SpO2 index) during the acute infectious phase. A combination of biomarkers explained a large part of the variance in CFS and affective scores (33.6%-42.0%), with GAL-GALR1 signaling, PGE2, and CRP being the top 3 most important biomarkers. The inclusion of the PBT/SpO2 index increased the prediction (55.3%-67.1%). The PBT/SpO2 index predicted the increases in GAL-GALR1 signaling. Conclusion These results indicate that the CFS and affective symptoms that are linked to LC are the consequence of metabolic aberrations, activated immune-inflammatory pathways, and the severity of inflammation during the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Various local and integral topological parameters of the electron density of relevant bonding interactions in the tri-osmium cluster [(μ-Cl)Os3(μ2-σ,π-CH = CH2)(CO)10], which is di-bridged, were analyzed by means the quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) methodology. Seven criteria based on QTAIM properties, including the values of electron density ρ(b) and its Laplacian ∇²ρ(b) at the BCP, kinetic energy density ratio G(b)/ρ(b), potential energy density ratio V(b)/ρ(b), total energy density ratio H(b)/ρ(b), ellipticity ε(b), and indices related to delocalization δ (A–B), have been considered and compared with the corresponding ones in other transition metal clusters. A comparison of topological properties was performed for related atom–atom interactions, including different bond orders, bridging, and ligand-unbridged interactions. A multicenter 6c − 9e interaction is proposed to exist in the core part Os3[(μ-Cl)(μ2-C = C)]. As expected, the calculated local topological parameters for the unbridged Os − Os bonds differ significantly from those of the bridged Os…Os interaction. There is no direct bond path found for the interaction between the bridged Os atoms. However, a non-negligible delocalization index has been obtained for this non-bonding interaction. The electron density shared between the bridged Os atoms is smaller but it is compensated by a greater electron density shared between the atoms in Os − C and Os − Cl bonds. This study also shows that the electron density distribution and the topological parameters of metal–metal interactions are significantly affected by the presence of bridging Cl and C ligands. Furthermore, other methodologies, such as source function (SF) and electron localization function (ELF) methods, have been employed to investigate the Os − Os, Os − C(2), and Os–Cl interactions. Finally, the computed delocalization index, δ (Os…OCO), in the tri-osmium cluster supports the existence of some π-back donation from CO to Os.

A novel ultra-narrow Microwave Photonic Filter (MPF) utilizes Stimulated Brillouin Scattering (SBS) to achieve a passband as narrow as 3 MHz as well as an impressive out-of-band (OOB) rejection ratio with regard to approximately 41 dB. As the demand for high-performance communication systems escalates, traditional microwave filters encounter limitations that this advanced MPF seeks to address. The filter operates by converting Radio Frequency (RF) signals into the optical domain, leveraging a specially designed SBS medium and an SBS pump with multiple lines configuration to narrow the passband effectively. The operational principles include polarization modulation techniques that enhance filtering efficiency. The Bandwidth (BW) of the MPF is effectively reduced by employing Composite SBS (CSBS) technology, which superimposes a pair of Brillouin loss spectra onto a central Brillouin gain. Nevertheless, this superposition results in a reduction in SBS gain, which in turn reduces the MPF’s OOB rejection capabilities. In order to resolve this issue, Vector SBS (VSBS) technology is implemented, which improves OOB rejection by compensating for SBS gain and suppressing unamplified spectral components by manipulating polarization states. It comprises simulation experiments carried out through OptiSystem software, and a mathematical model developed based on basic equations. This work highlights the filter’s potential to improve BW utilization and significantly reduce size and power consumption, making it particularly relevant for future applications in advanced wireless communication technologies. Overall, the findings underscore the significant contributions of this MPF design in the evolving landscape of Microwave Photonics (MWPs).

The implementation of Countermeasure Techniques (CTs) in the context of Network-On-Chip (NoC) based Multiprocessor System-On-Chip (MPSoC) routers against the Flooding Denial-of-Service Attack (F-DoSA) falls under Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) due to the three main concerns, called: traffic variations, multiple evaluation criteria-based traffic features, and prioritization NoC routers as an alternative. In this study, we propose a comprehensive evaluation of various NoC traffic features to identify the most efficient routers under the F-DoSA scenarios. Consequently, an MCDM approach is essential to address these emerging challenges. While the recent MCDM approach has some issues, such as uncertainty, this study utilizes Fuzzy-Weighted Zero-Inconsistency (FWZIC) to estimate the criteria weight values and Fuzzy Decision by Opinion Score Method (FDOSM) for ranking the routers with fuzzy Single-valued Neutrosophic under names (SvN-FWZIC and SvN-FDOSM) to overcome the ambiguity. The results obtained by using the SvN-FWZIC method indicate that the Max packet count has the highest importance among the evaluated criteria, with a weighted score of 0.1946. In contrast, the Hop count is identified as the least significant criterion, with a weighted score of 0.1090. The remaining criteria fall within a range of intermediate importance, with enqueue time scoring 0.1845, packet count decremented and traversal index scoring 0.1262, packet count incremented scoring 0.1124, and packet count index scoring 0.1472. In terms of ranking, SvN-FDOSM has two approaches: individual and group. Both the individual and group ranking processes show that (Router 4) is the most effective router, while (Router 3) is the lowest router under F-DoSA. The sensitivity analysis provides a high stability in ranking among all 10 scenarios. This approach offers essential feedback in making proper decisions in the design of countermeasure techniques in the domain of NoC-based MPSoC.

Long COVID has emerged as a significant challenge since the COVID-19 pandemic, which was declared as an outbreak in March 2020, marked by diverse symptoms and prolonged duration of disease. Defined by the WHO as symptoms persisting or emerging for at least two months post-SARS-CoV-2 infection without an alternative cause, its prevalence varies globally, with estimates of 10–20% in Europe, 7.3% in the USA, and 3.0% in the UK. The condition’s etiology remains unclear, involving factors, such as renin–angiotensin system overactivation, persistent viral reservoirs, immune dysregulation, and autoantibodies. Reactivated viruses, like EBV and HSV-6, alongside epigenetic alterations, exacerbate mitochondrial dysfunction and energy imbalance. Emerging evidence links SARS-CoV-2 to chromatin and gut microbiome changes, further influencing long-term health impacts. Diagnosis of long COVID requires detailed systemic evaluation through medical history and physical examination. Management is highly individualized, focusing mainly on the patient’s symptoms and affected systems. A multidisciplinary approach is essential, integrating diverse perspectives to address systemic manifestations, underlying mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies. Enhanced understanding of long COVID’s pathophysiology and clinical features is critical to improving patient outcomes and quality of life. With a growing number of cases expected globally, advancing research and disseminating knowledge on long COVID remain vital for developing effective diagnostic and management frameworks, ultimately supporting better care for affected individuals.

Introduction Giant Serpentine Aneurysms (GSA) are a rare subgroup of complex intracranial vascular anomalies characterized by unusually large and convoluted structures within cerebral arteries. This systematic review examines the historical context, clinical presentations, diagnostic methodologies, and evolving treatments specific to GSAs. Its goal is to advance patient care strategies and outcomes within this intricate neurovascular domain. Methods Research encompassing patients diagnosed with GSAs was gathered from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. Only comprehensive human studies published in English were considered, using search terms like giant serpentine aneurysm, thrombosed aneurysm, bypass, and angiography. Data regarding patient age, gender, symptoms upon presentation, treatments, recovery duration, and outcomes were systematically documented. Result This analysis of 83 patients with GSA found the middle cerebral artery as the most common site (39.8%). Headaches (54.2%) and visual issues (9.8%) prevailed as symptoms. Seizures correlated with more post-op problems. Females encountered more neurological issues post-surgery (46.4%). Treatment methods varied by location but didn’t significantly affect age or hospital stay length. Conclusion Early recognition and intervention are crucial for mitigating neurological deficits and improving patient prognosis in GSAs. Expanded research and awareness are needed for definitive diagnostic protocols and treatment guidelines.

Introduction Hospitalization in the COVID-19 intensive care unit (ICU) induces psychological pressures on patients, including anxiety and depression, which disrupt their functioning. Patient education and support can facilitate recovery and potentially alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of a supportive training program on stress, anxiety, and depression among COVID-19 patients hospitalized in Najaf hospitals. Method This randomized controlled trial was conducted in 2021, involving 60 hospitalized COVID-19 patients diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and RT-PCR tests. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to either the control or intervention group using SPSS software-generated random sequence. At the beginning of the study, both groups completed demographic information forms and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). The control group received standard care, while the intervention group participated in a supportive educational program in addition to routine care. On the fifth day of hospitalization, both groups completed the DASS-21 again. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests, independent t-tests, Mann–Whitney, and Wilcoxon tests. Results The two groups were homogeneous regarding gender, place of residence, marital status, and income (p > 0.05). On the fifth day, a statistically significant reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression levels was observed in the intervention group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion A supportive educational program in the COVID ward can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression among patients. This program is feasible for implementation by nurses without additional costs. Future research could explore the long-term effects of such interventions and assess patient satisfaction with the educational program. Trial registration This study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (no. IRCT20140625018231N1) on 05/11/2021.

Date palm waste, an abundant resource in the Middle East, has strong potential for sustainable energy production. This study presents a technoeconomic analysis of green hydrogen production through gasification of three types of date palm residues – empty fruit bunches (EFB), fronds, and trunks – using Cycle‐Tempo software. The analysis focuses on optimizing the process based on industrially relevant economic criteria, including internal rate of return (IRR), the payback period (PBT), and sensitivity to hydrogen price fluctuations. The results showed hydrogen yields of approximately 100, 91, and 60 kg t⁻¹ for EFB, fronds, and trunks, respectively. For the EFB‐fed plant, the PBT was 6 years, with an IRR of 14%, making it the most financially attractive option. Sensitivity analysis revealed that a 20% increase in hydrogen price could significantly enhance profitability, reducing the PBT to less than 4 years. This work provides two main contributions: (1) it addresses the lack of comprehensive technoeconomic evaluations for converting agricultural waste into green hydrogen, and (2) it defines the industrial conditions for viable implementation. The findings demonstrate that using EFB as feedstock can offer a competitive alternative to fossil fuels, potentially yielding annual savings of up to $3.3 million for a medium‐scale plant. These results are important for investors, policymakers, and industries aiming to transition to low‐carbon hydrogen production while leveraging local biomass resources.

Steel column-to-base plate connections are critical to steel structures' stability, load transfer efficiency, and structural integrity. This study provides a comparative assessment of the key structural properties that influence the performance of these connections under axial loading. The study investigates the effect of anchor bolt configurations (quantity, diameter, and arrangement), base plate thickness, weld thickness, and stiffener configurations on the load-bearing capacity of the connection, stress distribution, and failure processes. Finite element analysis (FEA) was performed using ABAQUS, and the results were compared with theoretical formulas derived from Eurocode 3 (EN 1993-1-8) and Eurocode 2 (EN 1992-1-1). The results indicate that optimal integration of anchor bolts and stiffeners improves axial and bending resistance, but excessive weld thickness may negatively affect the performance. The research highlights the essential function of base plate thickness in mitigating deformations and enhancing structural integrity. The results provide critical insights into the optimal design of steel column-to-base plate connections, improving stability, durability, and cost-effectiveness in structural engineering applications.

Introduction Iraq has faced decades of conflict and increased exposure to alcohol use. While the majority (60%) of Iraq's population is under the age of 24, there is no research examining their views on alcohol use and related factors. This study explores how the individual, interpersonal and social contexts of university students may influence their experiences and perceptions of alcohol use. Methods We undertook a qualitative study underpinned by a socio‐ecological framework and the alcohol use motivational model. Forty students from 11 disciplines at three universities across Iraq were interviewed (45% female). Interviews were conducted in English ( n = 3) or Arabic ( n = 37). Template analysis was used to examine the data. Results Perceptions of the prevalence of alcohol use varied among participants. Perceived motives for drinking included using alcohol to cope with grief, loss, poverty and unemployment; as well as peer pressure, thrill‐seeking and social approval. Abstinence was perceived to be associated with knowledge of the adverse effects of alcohol and a commitment to faith. Students reported alcohol use as a clandestine activity. Students suggested education, open communication and employment opportunities as preventative strategies. Discussion and Conclusion This is the first study to explore young Iraqi perceptions and experiences of peers' alcohol use in the current context of conflict, political instability and globalisation. Young Iraqis are a vulnerable population who may be at risk of alcohol‐related harm. Iraq should consider multidimensional preventive approaches that include evidence‐based and culturally appropriate interventions that reflect young people's real‐life experiences and challenges.