bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remote sensing monitoring of mangrove growth rate at selected planted sites in Mauritius
Authors: Doodee Mahalaksmi D.D. , Rughooputh Soonil D.D.V. , Jawaheer Shobha
Published: January 2023

Mangroves are highly productive and rich ecosystems that thrive at the interface of land and sea. They provide a wide range of essential goods and services, contribute highly to coastal protection and the livelihood of coastal communities, and are also carbon-rich biomes contributing to carbon sequestration. Mangroves are primarily threatened by anthropogenic activities; a loss in biodiversity has been observed in the past years in many countries including Mauritius. Given their value to the ecosystem, it is important to have effective continuous monitoring of mangrove dynamics. We studied the rate of increase of canopy coverage of planted Rhizophora mucronata forests in two selected sites (Le Morne and Grande Rivière Noire) on a southern African island – Mauritius – using Google Earth Pro historical Landsat 7 and Landsat 8 images. Data were processed using ImageJ software. To our knowledge, this technique has not yet been applied for monitoring mangrove growth. The mangrove sites were classified into four zones based on water level and tidal variations. On average, the rate of increase of canopy coverage expressed by a coefficient ‘b’ at Le Morne (b = 1.901) was higher than that at Grande Rivière Noire (b = 1.823). The coefficient ‘b’ positively correlated with the zonations (r ~ 0.8). Higher ‘b’ values (2.319–2.886) were observed in Zone 1, where the substrate is always covered with water at low tide. The use of remote sensing data along with image processing analysis proved to be an effective tool to obtain relevant information, not only for mapping mangroves but also for monitoring the canopy growth rates of planted mangroves.Significance:

We describe a novel technique whereby remote sensing data are processed through image processing using ImageJ software, to effectively monitor planted mangrove canopy growth by pixel count.
This study highlights the successful application of the technique to obtain relevant information for mapping and monitoring the canopy growth rates of planted mangroves.
This technique can be further extended to identify potential areas for mangrove propagation worldwide based on tidal level variations.
A lifecycle-based evaluation of greenhouse gas emissions from the plastics industry in South Africa
Authors: Goga Taahira , Harding Kevin , Russo Valentina , Von Blottnitz Harro
Published: January 2023

Increased production rates of plastic and limited disposal methods have fed concerns regarding environmental degradation. Whilst most of the focus is on plastic litter and marine pollution, greenhouse gas emissions of plastic over its value chains are also of interest and non-trivial at the global scale. To quantify the global warming potential of the local plastics industry, a lifecycle-based carbon footprint is presented encompassing activities such as resource extraction, polymer production and conversion, recycling, and disposal stages. The South African plastics sector is estimated to have emitted 15.8 Mt CO2 eq in 2015, with the granulate production stage bearing the highest environmental load. The consumption of fossil fuel based electricity and the burning of plastic waste also contribute notably to the overall emissions. Additionally, the recycling process in 2015 saved approximately 1.4 Mt of greenhouse gas emissions.Significance:

Research has typically focused on the environmental impacts of the end-of-life stage of plastics, namely disposal and recycling. Despite growing concern, the global warming potential of the local plastics sector across its value chain has not been investigated.
Greenhouse gas emissions arising from the South African plastic sector are non-trivial and are estimated to total 15.8 Mt CO2 eq in 2015.
Amongst the lifecycle stages, the resin production process had the highest contribution in South Africa due to the country’s coal-based monomer production process.
Risk assessment in the process of determining the system architecture
Authors:   Novosibirsk State Technical University, Russian Federation, Anikeeva Veronika V. , Selifanov Valentin V. ,   Novosibirsk State Technical University, Russian Federation
Published: January 2023

Organizations use the process of defining the architecture as part of the creation (modernization, development) and operation of the system to ensure its safety, quality and efficiency. The architecture reflects the principles guiding the design of the system, takes into account the risks, requirements and limitations for their implementation. The article discusses the procedure for conducting a risk assessment in the process of determining the system architecture, and also suggests probabilistic methods for solving problems of assessing possible risks arising in the process of determining the system architecture, taking into account information security requirements.
Application of the possibility theory for multi-purpose situational control of the composition of hydroelectric units at hydroelectric power plants
Authors:   Novosibirsk State Technical University, Russian Federation, Sekretarev Yuri A. , Fedоrova Yana V. ,   Novosibirsk State Technical University, Russian Federation
Published: January 2023

The monograph considers a situational approach to managing the normal operation modes of hydroelectric power plants. Distinctive features of such a management process are multicriteria, adaptability, and the need for decision-making under conditions of uncertainty. As a methodology for constructing situational control systems, the theory of possibilities is proposed – a mathematical tool that allows you to interpret inaccurate, vague information about an object. The decision-making process is considered as an extremely important and responsible stage of management that needs additional information support. To solve this problem, as well as the problem of multicriteria optimization of the composition of operating units, the main principles of the DSS and RUSA subsystems were formulated. The mathematical models and algorithms proposed in the paper are focused on HPPs of various power levels and serve as an ideological basis for the implementation of modern human-machine control systems.
Salmonella detection with spin column extraction and 7500-FAST enrichment PCR v2
Authors: Goodman Laura
Published: February 2023

This procedure is used to test enrichment broth from environmental or animal specimens using Qiagen spin columns and the MicroSEQ Salmonella spp. Detection Kit. The RVS enrichment broth should be prepared in advance to allow for quality control. The rest of the method is performed over two days: Day 1 - sample setup and enrichment Day 2 - DNA purification and real-time PCR
Efficacy of Curcumin Mouth Wash on Gingival Inflammation in Patients with Chronic Gingivitis
Authors: Mohammad Chenar
Published: January 2023

Objective: For gingival disease, various modalities of treatment are available. Turmeric is a novel product obtained from plants that plays a vital role in treating gingival and periodontal diseases. This study aims to evaluate the anti-plaque and anti-inflammatory property effects of curcumin mouthwash (0.1%) on participants with plaque-induced gingivitis.   Methods: From eighty subjects, sixty participants with generalized gingivitis received meticulous scaling and polishing (S&P) and were divided randomly into 3 groups: Curcumin (CU), Chlorhexidine (CHX), and control (S&P) groups. Clinical parameters: PI, GI, BOP, and salivary IL-1β were assessed at baseline and after 4 weeks of therapy. The rest of the twenty patients with clinically healthy gingiva.       Results:  The results showed a significant reduction in the mean values of PI, GI, BOP, and Il-1β levels after 4 weeks of therapy as compared to baseline in all 3 groups (p≤0.05), with the highest mean reduction of GI, BOP, and IL-1 β scores detected in the CU when compared to the CHX and S&P groups, and the highest mean reduction of PI scores detected in the CHX group in comparison to the CU and S&P groups (p≤0.05), with significant differences, existed between the 3 groups (p≤0.05).   Conclusions: CU was more effective than CHX when anti-inflammatory property effects were considered, while CHX was more effective than CU when anti-plaque property effects were considered. Therefore, CU mouthwash can be considered an effective alternative antigingivitis agent to CHX due to its anti-plaque and anti-inflammatory property effects.
Evaluation of Skeletal Jaw Relation by Different Cephalometric Angles for Sample of Kurdish Young Adults in Sulaimani City-A Cephalometric Study
Authors: Mohammed Shiler , Ali Trefa , Rashid Zhwan
Published: January 2023

Objective: An accurate evaluation of the skeletal sagittal jaw relationship is important in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. This study was done to establish cephalometric norms of all types of malocclusions using ANB angle, Wit’s appraisal, and Beta angle and evaluate the significance of W angle compared to these parameters.  

Methods: Ninety pre-treatment lateral cephalograms of male and female patients aged 18-28 years from Sulaimani city that met the sample criteria were traced digitally by the Easy Dent 4 software program. The sample was divided into three groups of skeletal malocclusions, class I, II, and III, by the two-finger method of Foster initially. It was later confirmed cephalometrically by ANB angle, Beta angle, and Wit’s appraisal; each group consisted of 30 patients. Also, for each subject, the W angle was measured.      

Results:  Significant differences were found in the ANB angle, Beta angle, Wit’s appraisal, and W-angle in all 90 patients. The coefficient of variability showed that Wit’s appraisal was the most variable parameter and W angle was the least variable parameter.  

Conclusions: ANB angle, Beta angle, Wit’s appraisal, and W-angle are significant parameters to assess the sagittal jaw relationship. The use of W angle and other parameters can provide a more accurate assessment of the sagittal skeletal jaw relationship as it has the least coefficient of variance; it should therefore enable better diagnosis and treatment planning for patients.
Crown Size Comparisons in Patients with Unilateral Palatally Impacted Canine by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Rasheed Tara , Ahmed Handren
Published: January 2023

Objective: Impacted canine is a frequently encountered clinical problem. The goal of this study is to compare canines’ dimensions and the adjacent lateral incisors to investigate the impact of tooth size on canine impaction as it could help the orthodontists to prepare a scientific treatment plan which proportionally aligns the teeth on both sides.  

Methods: In this retrospective study, the cone-beam computed tomography of 40 patients with unilateral palatally impacted canines from the Kurdish population was assessed. Individual linear measurements were obtained from multiple axial slices of cone-beam computed tomography to assess mesiodistal width, gingivoincisal height, and labio-palatal thickness of the upper maxillary canines and lateral incisors crowns. The achieved data were compared between the impacted and non-impacted sides and a ratio of lateral incisor/canine for each dimension was calculated.      

Results: The crowns of maxillary impacted canines were significantly larger labio-palatally and mesiodistally than the canine on the normally erupted side. While lateral incisor crowns adjacent to the impacted canines were shorter gingivoincisally than those adjacent to non-impacted canines. There was a significant association between the erupted lateral incisor and higher gingivoincisal meanwhile no significant difference was observed in labio-palatal and mesiodistal dimensions.  

Conclusions: Palatally impacted canines were significantly larger in labio-palatal and mesiodistal dimensions than the normally erupted canines. The maxillary lateral incisors in the impacted canine side were slightly shorter than those on the non-impacted side and this difference has an effect on the orthodontic treatment planning.
Evaluating Diagnostic Validity of Various Sagittal Cephalometric Parameters (a Comparative Retrospective Study)
Authors: Azeez Saya , Khalid Ribwar
Published: January 2023

Objective: The goal of this study was to determine the accuracy and reliability of numerous skeletal analyses for determining the sagittal skeletal pattern. 

Methods: A total of 105 cephalometric x-rays were used. The Steiner’s ANB angle, anteroposterior dysplasia indicator (APDI), and angle of convexity by Down’s assessed the anteroposterior skeletal pattern. According to the diagnostic results of the majority of the criteria, the samples were divided into three classes: I, II, and III. The analyses' validity and reliability were assessed using Kappa statistics, positive predictive value, and sensitivity.      

Results: There was a moderate agreement between the ANB angle and the final diagnosis (K= 0.593). The ANB angle demonstrated the highest sensitivity in class II and III groups (1.00).  

Conclusions: The ANB angle and down's angle of convexity was the most accurate markers for class I and III groups, respectively, while the Down's angle of convexity and APDI were the most accurate indicators for class III group.
Identification and Genotyping of Candida Species Involved in Oral Candidiasis among Diabetic Patients
Authors: Mohammed Shene , Shekhany Khattab , Jalal Paywast , Fattah Chiman
Published: January 2023

Objective: Oral candidiasis is more prevalent among diabetic patients than non-diabetics due to the factors that promote Candida oral carriage. This study aimed to isolate and identify Candida species involved in oral candidiasis of patients with diabetes mellitus in Sulaymaniyah city. 

Methods: The study was performed from August 2021 to March 2022 on two diabetic patients, Type 1 and Type 2 (n=150) and non- diabetics (n=50), as a control group. In Iraq's Kurdistan region, oral swabs were taken from 200 participants at the Sulaymaniyah governorate's Diabetic and Endocrine Center and Shar hospital. Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) medium was used to culture the swabs. Candida isolates were identified using HiCromeTM Candida Differential agar, then confirmed using polymerase chain reaction based on the ITS region and CHS1 gene detection. Using the CA25S and CA-INT primers, all C. Albicans isolates were genotyped based on the transposable intron in 25S rDNA. ITS1 and ITS4 primers were used to sequence the 18S region of ribosomal DNA (rDNA). Descriptive statistics were used for summaries and to describe data.      

Results: From the samples of 150 diabetes patients and 50 controls, 64 (42.6%) and 12 (24%) were positive for Candida spp. In the diabetic patients, 34 (53.1%) of the 64 isolated Candida spp. were identified as C. Albicans, while 6 (50%) of the healthy subjects had C. albicans. The genotypes A (450 bp), B (840 bp), C (450 and 840 bp) of C. Albicans and D (1040 bp) that belongs to C. dubliniensis were detected. Genotype A (54.69%) was the most frequent.  

Conclusions: This study concluded that there was a difference in the proportion of Candida spp. colonization in the oral cavity of diabetic patients compared to the healthy group; also, we found that C. Albicans with Genotype A was the most prevalent species among all other species in both groups.
Assessment of Clinical Attachment Level in Anxious Patients
Authors: Khwakaram Azhin , Rashed Harem
Published: January 2023

Objective: This study aimed to assess the clinical attachment level in anxious patients with periodontitis using the Hamilton Anxiety Scale Rate.  

Methods: The study was conducted at the University of Sulaimani, and Shorsh Dental Center teaching hospital; 100 individuals (50 males and 50 females) were included in the study ranging from (30- 65) years old. The individuals' anxiety level was evaluated using Hamilton Anxiety Scale Rate (HAM-A), and the WHO probe measured the clinical attachment level (CAL). The collected data were analyzed using the Chi square test and Spearman correlation, and p≤0.05 was significant.      

Results: Among 100 individuals that participated in the study,38% had mild anxiety, and the remaining (21,12,18 and 11) % had moderate, severe, very severe, and no anxiety, respectively. In these groups, the majority of participants had stage II periodontitis, followed by stage I, none periodontitis, stage III, and stage IV periodontitis, respectively. There’s no significant difference in CAL between genders (P=0.81). But there were significant differences in anxiety between genders (P=0.028), and there was no significant association between anxiety and CAL (P= 0.803).  

Conclusions: In the present study, the severity of anxiety was stronger in males than in females. Anxiety didn't cause CAL.
Effect of Adding Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles on Some Mechanical Properties of Dental Alginate
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Hoshang , Omer Ranj , Saleh Mahabad , Al-Hawezi Sazgar , Ikram Fahd
Published: January 2023

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of adding titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) on Shore A hardness, Young’s modulus, and tear strength of alginate impression material. 

Methods: Each test consists of one control group (alginate without TiO2NPs), and three test groups (2%, 3%, and 5%) of TiO2NPs were added, respectively. For each group, seven samples were constructed. For Shore A hardness, the samples were prepared according to ISO standards (7619-1:2010); Young’s modulus was calculated from the obtained Shore A hardness value according to a special standard equation. In contrast, for tear strength, the samples were prepared according to ASTM D 624-00.      

Results: The Control group exhibited a significantly less Shore A hardness value than all the other groups except the group that contained 2% TiO2NPs, where the increase in the hardness value was non-significant. A similar result was observed for Young’s modulus test, where the addition of TiO2NPs significantly increased Young’s modulus compared to the control group. Although, on the contrary, the tear strength was significantly improved by adding 3% TiO2NPs compared to control and other groups, there was a significant drop in the value of tear strength when 5% TiO2NPs were added to alginate.  

Conclusions: The addition of 3% TiO2NPs to dental alginate increased Shore A hardness, Young’s modulus, and significantly improved tear strength.
Preference for Using Posts to Restore Endodontically Treated Teeth among Dentists in College of Dentistry/ Hawler Medical University
Authors: Mahdi Sohela , Hamasaeed Niaz , Khudhur Hidayat , Tawfiq Hozan
Published: January 2023

Objective: Traditional restorative approaches are being modified as newer materials become available and patient preferences shift. The purpose of the study was to see if dentists' preferences for using posts and other materials associated to post used to restore endodontically treated teeth are influenced by practical experience, whether measured by the length of clinical practice time or level of specialty.  

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with dentists (n = 108) working at Hawler Medical University/College of Dentistry utilizing a questionnaire. Data on sociodemographics, clinical experience, postgraduate training, and post-endodontic restoration characteristics (posts/types of cement, rubber dam application) were obtained. The samples only included general and specialist dentists. A descriptive analysis was performed on the data. The Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test investigated the relationships.      

Results: The most chosen materials were metal posts (53.7 %) and resin cement (50 %). There was a statistically significant association between clinical practice duration and post-use type (P = 0.017). In addition, there was a highly significant relationship (P = 0.001) between clinical practice time, level of specialty, and the use of rubber dams.  

Conclusions: Dentists favored metal posts for post endodontic restorations, while resin-based cement was the preferred luting cement for the posts' cementation. Additional training and more clinical practice time were factors in several dental post-selection decisions.
Parents’ Behavior as an Indicator for Children’s Oral Health
Authors: Saeed Kani , Rauf Aras
Published: January 2023

Objective: Children are exceptional imitators of the surrounding people in the early childhood period. They use imitation as a mechanism in cognitive development. This study was designed to assess the effect of parents' oral health Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP), socioeconomic status, occupational type, and educational level on their children`s oral health status in Sulaimani city.   Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 490 children at the mixed dentition stage. They were examined for oral health status with dmft and DMFT indices following WHO criteria at different Pedodontics clinics in the city. Oral Health Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice, in addition to the parent's socioeconomic status and educational level, were assessed through a structured questionnaire.       Results: Statistical analysis demonstrated that children’s dmft/DMFT scores were strongly and positively associated with their parents` KAP, socioeconomic status, and educational level. Furthermore, the marital status of the parents had a direct impact on the children's oral health. Additionally, children of parents in the medical profession were presented with significantly better oral health.   Conclusions: Oral health of the children represented by dmft/DMFT scores were significantly affected by the KAP, educational level, profession type, and marital status of their parents. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to consider the parents in children’s oral health improvements.
Initial Sign and Period Until the Diagnosis of Behçet's Diseased Patients in Sulaimani Rheumatology Center
Authors: Qadir Khanda , Graib Balkees
Published: January 2023

Objective: The present study aimed to register the initial clinical findings in BD patients regarding age, sex, and family history as well as to estimate the time lapse until establishing the diagnosis. 

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was implemented to include 50 cases of Behçet's disease over 14 years from the Rheumatology center in Sulaimani governorate-Iraq. Data were tabulated and analyzed by chi-square and independent t-test.      

Results: The sample predominates in females (56%). The male-to-female ratio was 0.78:1. Their ages ranged from 23 to 71 years (43.92 ± 12.02 years). The most affected age group was 41-50 (16 cases, 32%). To a major extent, the first reported sign was oral ulceration (94%); however, the ocular lesion was the first sign in 3 females (6%). Family history was present in relatives of 6 cases (1 male and five females). An average delay of (10.66 ± 6.77) years was noted from the initial manifestation of the first sign to the time of diagnosis.   

Conclusions: Dentists could reduce the delay in Behçet's disease diagnosis because patients in clinical settings may give a history of recurrent oral ulceration with other manifestations that infer possible background of BD.
The Effect of Silver Diamine Fluoride, CPP-ACP/NaF, and Sodium Fluoride Varnish on Deciduous Enamel Erosion by Daily Snack ( Drink) in Children/ An In Vitro Study
Authors: Hussein Alaa , Kareem Fadil
Published: January 2023

Objective: Most children consume carbonated soft drinks and fruit juices daily, inducing detrimental low pH and contributing to dental erosion. The current study aimed to assess and compare the efficacy of a single application of 38% Silver diamine fluoride (38% SDF), CPP-ACP/NaF varnish, and Sodium fluoride varnish (NaF) in the prevention of enamel demineralization in primary teeth against daily snack drink in children. 

Methods: Forty primary anterior teeth (n=40) were divided into four groups and exposed to the following treatments (n=10): G1= 38%SDF (e- SDF TM); G2= CPP-ACP/NaF (MI VarnishTM); G3= NaF varnish (FluoroDose®); G4= Distilled water. The specimens were submitted for four days, with six pH cycles per day (10 minutes in orange juice) (SUNQUICK, IRAQ). Artificial saliva was used to remineralize the specimens after erosion challenges and as storage media between cycles. After four days of pH cycling, all the specimens were subjected to an atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS) to measure the amount of Calcium and phosphorus loss in each acidic solution. Scanning Electron Microscope evaluated the enamel topographic characteristics.      

Results: All varnishes promoted better results for protecting enamel than the distilled water, with a difference. However, 38% of SDF demonstrated less Calcium and phosphorus loss than CPP-ACP/NaF, NaF varnish, and distilled water (p < 0.001).   

Conclusions: Considering calcium and phosphorus loss values, a single application of each 38% SDF, MI varnish, and Naf effectively inhibited enamel erosion after four days of an erosive challenge, although the best protective effect was in favor of SDF.
Differences in Periodontal Parameters, Serum Vitamin D, Calcium, Phosphorus, Alkaline Phosphatase and C-Reactive Protein Between Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women with Periodontitis
Authors: Khalid Parez , Mohammad Chenar
Published: January 2023

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate and compare the differences in periodontal and biochemical parameters between perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with periodontitis. 

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 women with chronic periodontitis, aged 40-60 years, divided into 50 perimenopausal and 50 postmenopausal groups. Periodontal parameters (plaque index PI, gingival index GI, gingival bleeding index GBI, simplified debris index DI-S, simplified calculus index CI-S, simplified oral hygiene index OHI-S, clinical attachment loss CAL, and pocket depth PD) and blood samples were collected to estimate vitamin D, calcium Ca, phosphorous P, alkaline phosphatase ALP and C-reactive protein CRP.     

Results: The mean values of clinical periodontal parameters were significantly higher in the postmenopausal group as compared to the perimenopausal group (P<0.05), except for CI-S (P>0.05). For the biochemical parameters, the mean serum level of AlP, Ca, and P were within the normal reference ranges, with non-significant differences reported between both groups regarding ALP and P (P>0.05). While serum Vit.D level was more significantly reduced in the postmenopausal group (P<0.05), and CRP levels were increased in both groups, but with non-significant differences (P>0.05).   

Conclusions: Postmenopause could more significantly affect the progression & severity of periodontal disease and vitamin D deficiency than peri menopause due to reducing circulating estrogen level.
The Effect of an Audiovisual Distraction Method on 6-10-Years Old Children’s Behavior During Dental Treatment: A Clinical Trial
Authors: Muhammed Przha , Noori Arass
Published: January 2023

Objective: Management of uncooperative and anxious children during dental treatment is a major problem in pediatric dentistry. This study was designed to assess the effect of an audiovisual distraction method in minimizing the fear and anxiety of the child patient during dental treatment. 

Methods: A randomized clinical trial with a parallel design was carried out on 40 children aged between 6 and 10 years to ascertain the efficacy of the audiovisual (virtual reality eyeglasses) distraction method in reducing children's dental anxiety during local anesthetic administration. Forty children were randomly divided into two groups; the control group (conventional local anesthesia injection alone) and the study group (conventional local anesthesia injection combined with audio-visual virtual reality eyeglasses). The pain experience and anxiety were assessed using a combination of measures: visual analog scale (child self-report) & visual analog scale (parent report), pulse rate and oxygen saturation SpO2 (physiological), and behavior assessment performed using (Frankl’s behavior rating scale and Houpt’s scale).     

Results: All 40 children completed the study. A highly significant reduction in the child’s anxiety and pain experienced in the audiovisual distraction group was seen as reported by the visual analog scale (p < 0.001) and Houpt scale (p < 0.003). In contrast, pulse rate and spo2 showed no statistically significant difference between the two groups.   

Conclusions: Audiovisual distraction method offers an effective distraction tool for alleviating the pain and unpleasantness that arises while administering local anesthesia in dental treatment.
Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Profiles of Thymus vulgaris Essential Oil on Clinically Isolated Porphyromonas Gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Rasheed Ayub , Gul Sarhang , Azeez Hoshyar
Published: January 2023

Objective: To investigate the antibacterial and antibiofilm effect of the essential oil extracted from Thymus vulgaris (TV) against clinically isolated Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Prevotella intermedia (P. intermedia). 

Methods: Subgingival plaque samples were collected from periodontitis patients with a probing pocket depth of at least 6mm. Conventional microbiological tests and molecular techniques were used to isolate and confirm P. intermedia. In addition, previously isolated P gingivalis was obtained from the microbiology department of the college of dentistry, Sulaimani University. The hydrodistillation method was used for the extraction of the essential oil. The antibacterial activity of TV against the confirmed clinical strains has been determined by disc diffusion and broth dilution methods to determine the minimum inhibitory (MIC) and bactericidal (MBC) concentrations. In addition, the antibiofilm activity of the essential oils was evaluated by a qualitative tube method.     

Results: The essential oil extracted from TV revealed comparable antibacterial activity with inhibition zones ranging from 9.55±0.30mm to 15.85±0.30mm for P. gingivalis and 10.55±0.25mm to 16.85±0.40mm for P. intermedia. The MIC of the tested oil were 1.56μL/mL and 0.78μL/mL, while the MBC were 3.125μL/mL and 1.56 μL/mL against P. gingivalis and P. intermedia, respectively. TV essential oil showed moderate and robust antibiofilm activity against P. gingivalis and P. intermedia.   

Conclusions: TV essential oil showed antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against clinically isolated P. gingivalis and P. intermedia. Further studies should focus on using TV essential oil as an adjunct to periodontal therapy.
Pathological Fractures Of The Jaws Due To Cystic Lesions: A Three Case Series With A Brief Review Of The Literature
Authors: F. Nicotra , R. Rizzo , L. Bevilacqua , F. Costantinides , M. Maglione
Published: January 2023

This study aims to describe pathologic fractures of the jaws due to cystic bone lesions. Their daily clinical practice findings are not very common, so their treatment can be challenging. In addition, endosseous benign lesions like a radicular, residual, solitary, aneurysmal cyst, and odontogenic keratocyst, might weaken the bone so that trauma, or usual chewing, could break it. We follow from the first clinical examination to the X-ray or CBCT examination and surgical management of our patients, reporting all procedures and results to explain our approach to these cases. We also reviewed the literature briefly to determine if our operative management is in line with the scientific community. Mandibular angle and body are common locations, while symphysis and condyle are less so. Young men are the most affected, and trauma is the most triggering event. Cyst enucleation, followed by fracture reduction and fixation, is the treatment of choice for our clinical team and the scientific community. We observe how impactful it is to approach the cavity of the cystic lesion from the fracture line as the surgical gold standard.
Antibacterial and Anti-biofilm Effect of Lactuca serriola Extract Against Clinically Isolated Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia: An in vitro study
Authors: Sharif Rozhgar , Sha Aram
Published: January 2023

Objective: To investigate the antibacterial and anti-biofilm effect of Lactuca serriola (LS) extract against clinically isolated Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Prevotella intermedia (P. intermedia). 

Methods: LS extract was prepared by solvent extraction method. Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to analyze phytochemical components. Plaque samples were obtained from periodontitis patients with probing pocket depth ≥6mm to isolate P. intermedia. Microbiological tests and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to confirm P. intermedia. Antibacterial activities of LS against the confirmed clinical strains (P. intermedia and revised P. gingivalis) were determined by agar well diffusion method. Broth macro dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). The anti-biofilm assay of the LS was performed by using tube adhesion method.     

Results: Antibacterial activity of LS against clinical isolates revealed that the inhibition zones ranged from 11.75 ±0.95mm to 24.25 ±1.7mm for P. gingivalis and 12.75 ±0.95mm to 25.5 ±1.29mm for P. intermedia. The MICs of LS extract were 212.5mg/mL and 106.2 mg/mL, while the MBCs were 425mg/mL and 212.5mg/mL against P. gingivalis and P. intermedia, respectively. The anti-biofilm of LS extract exhibited strong anti-biofilm activity.    

Conclusions: LS extract exhibited bactericidal and anti-biofilm activity against clinically isolated P. gingivalis and P. intermedia in an in vitro study.
Evaluation of 5-Aminolevulinic acid, Methylene Blue, Toluidine Blue O Photosensitizers on Clinically Isolated Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia: An in vitro Study
Authors: Najm Kashan , Gul Sarhang
Published: January 2023

Objective: To evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA), methylene blue (MB), and toluidine blue O (TBO) photosensitizers against clinically isolated Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Prevotella intermedia (P. intermedia).

Methods: Patients with a periodontal pocket depth of ≥5 mm were selected for subgingival plaque sampling. Bacterial identification was carried out using colony morphology, gram staining and then validated using the PCR technique. The photosensitizers tested were 5-ALA, MB, and TBO. The antibacterial test was performed using an agar well, and disk diffusion methods and double-fold serial dilution was used for minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC).     

Results: Glossy, smooth, and looked grey, light brown, or black-pigmented colonies of P. intermedia on Columbia agar plates were confirmed by gram staining and PCR tests. Contrary to MB and TBO, 5-ALA photosensitizers didn’t have antibacterial efficacy against P. gingivalis and P. intermedia. The antibacterial test showed an increased inhibition zone with increasing the photosensitizers’ concentration. The greatest inhibition zones were at 10mg/ml concentration for both MB and TBO. The MIC for MB was 2 mg/ml, and 1mg/ml, while for TBO, it was 1mg/ml and 0.5mg/ml for P. gingivalis and P. intermedia, respectively.    

Conclusions: MB and TBO have antibacterial properties against P. gingivalis and P. intermedia, and their efficacy increase with increasing concentration. TBO is more effective when compared to MB. Furthermore, P. intermedia is more sensitive to photoactivation in comparison to P. gingivalis.
Synthesis and characterization of Nano ashes from different waste materials and their effects on the compressive strength of sustainable concrete: A systematic review
Authors: Ahmed Hemn , Ibrahim Dalya , Mustafa Rozhno , Faraj Rabar
Published: January 2023

Nanotechnology can be regarded as one of the new research fields having novelty and important applications that recently gained attention, especially during the last twenty years. The implementation of nanotechnology produces materials with novel characteristics and recently many works were conducted to include nanoparticles (NPs) in cement-based materials to improve performance and manufacture concrete with better behavior under different mechanical and environmental conditions. Previous studies demonstrated that different waste ashes such as, fly ash, cement kiln dust, palm oil fuel ash, eggshell ash, Metakaolin, and waste ceramic ash can be efficiently converted to sustainable nano ashes. The chemical and physical properties of the produced nano ashes were significantly different from their parent ashes. Therefore, the concrete produced with these nano ashes had superior properties compared to the normal concrete made with traditional waste ashes. This paper presents a systematic overview of the synthesis and characterization of different nano ashes and their impacts on the performance of concrete mixtures. Based on the results from the comprehensive review, it was illustrated that the specific surface to volume ratio was considerably increased by converting the ashes to nano ashes, thus the properties of concrete were also improved. Moreover, due to the higher specific surface area of nano ashes and their reaction with undesirable C-H which is present in the cement paste matrix to produce additional C-S-H, the microstructure of concrete was considerably enhanced.
The Effect of Architectural Area Standards on Living Room’s Spatial Functional efficiency for Low- Prize Residential Complexes in Sulaymaniyah City
Authors: Qaradaghi Chinaz , Qaradaghi Amjad
Published: January 2023

Generally, residential building standards cover numerous aspects or phases of the building process. Instances are planning standards, design standards, space standards, and technical building standards. This study concentrates on space standards and their effect on the functionality of low-income family housing interior spaces in low-rise residential complexes in Sulaimani. This addresses the minimum area standards of living-dining spaces as one of the most significant indicators of architectural space standards and its consideration for achieving the spatial functionality of interior spaces in low-income residential complexes in Sulaimani. This research seeks to determine how spatial standards affect the functionality of living-dining areas. The first hypothesis is that architectural area standards consideration has a significant impact on the achievement of primary functions in the living-dining rooms of low-rise apartments designed for low-income families in Sulaimani city. The second hypothesis is that architectural area standards achievement has a significant impact on the achievement of secondary functions in the living-dining room of low-rise apartments designed for low-income families in Sulaimani city. Appearance of practically inefficient living-dining areas in the low-rise apartments of Sulaimani's residential complexes is a prominent problem. The particular problem is the lack of some of these primary and secondary functions in the Living-dining room 's inner spaces of low-rise apartments in Sulaimani. This research realized that there are the significant effect of spatial standards considerations and functionality achievements. Also addressed the positive relationship between architectural spatial standards consideration and primary-secondary functionality achievements.
The Role of Artificial Lighting in Achieving Dynamism in Commercial Building
Authors: Amin Hersh , Rasul Hoshyar
Published: January 2023

Human interest in building design has become general, including the design of artificial lighting for building facades. Therefore, in the priorities of many owners and designers. Commercial buildings are always looking for different means that contribute to improving the process of displaying products and providing the right environment to attract customers. This paper investigates the role of artificial lighting in architectural aspects. So, the objectives of the research are to evaluate the properties of artificial lighting, and its role in the formation of the building facade elements during the night, in order to make the building successful in terms of form and function (reviving architecture at night). The research problem arises in the lack of interest in applying the role of artificial lighting properties such as (intensity, beam angle, and color) in studying the dynamic state of the commercial building facade elements (line, shape, and texture). A hypothesis should be formed: If the characteristics of artificial lighting are adjusted, it will have an effect on achieving the dynamic state of the elements of the commercial building facade. The results determined the role and effects of artificial lighting properties on the dynamic situation, such as the elements forming the facades of commercial buildings during the night period.
Geospatial Analysis Model for Locating Optimum Centralized Wastewater Treatment Plant for Sulaimania City
Authors: Majed Shakhawan , Ghafour Zeren
Published: January 2023

Sulaymaniyah city has no wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and the sewage is discharged into a stream (Qilyasan Stream) without treatment. Wastewater disposal problem has been a major concern in many developing countries because of the high rate of population growth. The aim of this study is to find the best location for a wastewater treatment plant in Sulaymaniyah city. The city consists of three major areas which are; Sulaymaniyah Central, Bakrajo, Rapareen, and Tasluja. Linear combination Mulita Criteria Decision Model (MCDM) is applied using GIS integrated with Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP). In the GIS model nine suitable criteria are used; distance to the agricultural areas, distance to the wells, distance to the sewer outlets, distance to the main roads, the area slope, the area elevation, distance to the water body, depth to the groundwater table and distance to the industrial area. Moreover, two restricted layers are considered; the distance from the residential areas and the distance from other buildings such as; educational buildings, sports centers, commercial areas, and the airport. The buffer distance of the restricted distances is taken 1,220 m. FAHP is used to find the weights of the suitable criteria that applied in the linear combination equation. The result showed five final suitable classifications; not suitable, low suitable, moderately suitable, highly suitable, and extremely suitable.
Assessment of the supplied water quality for Sulaimani, Iraq as a case study using CCME method
Authors: Muhammed Akber , Hama Ako
Published: January 2023

Water quality index (WQI) is an important technique used for the evaluating and classifying water quality of supplied water, by summarizing large number of parameters from the result of variety tests of water into less number and terms Water quality index (WQI) value can be determined. Management of water quality is not so easy and simple, it needs to work with a lot of data. In this study evaluating of water quality of (Sulaimani city, KR, Iraq) is presented by using Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME). The study conducted by monitoring long term water quality data over past eleven years, collected from 17 sampling points, tanks from which potable water supplied to all of the city residents, located in the (Sulaimani city, KR, Iraq). To obtain the CCME WQI value twelve parameters used : PH, Total dissolved solid (TDS), Chloride (Cl-1), Calcium (Ca), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Total hardness (TH), Total Alkalinity, Chloride (Cl2), Electric conductivity (EC), Sulphate (SO4-2).The obtained patterns present different water quality situations, WQI values ranged from good to excellent, based on the result obtained and analyzed using the from of WQI, it is revealed that the value of WQI ranged from (82) to (94) over the past 11 years, it means the main source of water supplied to the city which is Dokan lake is relatively high and clean as it is over a mountain watershed area.
SCROLL PROFILING FOR REFRIGERATION SCROLL COMPRESSORS
Authors: Pochatkov Sergey V. , Zharov Anton A. , Borisenko Artem V. , Valiakina Anna V. , Makarov Michael V.
Published: January 2023

Background. Currently, spiral compressors are often used in refrigeration. They have a high volumetric efficiency, low noise, high balance and a number of other advantages. There is not enough information in the public domain describing the profiling of scroll, therefore, when designing scroll compressor, the greatest difficulty is precisely the scroll profiling.
Aim: description of the plotting and profiling of the most common types of scrolls of refrigeration scroll compressors.
Materials and methods: The use of known mathematical relations and tools for the development of calculation formulas.
Results and applications: The necessary mathematical relations are developed and described, which allow profiling and 3D models constructing of a piecewise circular scroll, an involute scroll and an Archimedes' scroll.
İKİ-YÖNLÜ OLUMSALLIK ÇİZELGELERİNDE GÖZENEK ARTIK TESTİ: Kİ-KARE ANALİZİ İÇİN POST-HOC TESTLERİ
Authors: TERZİ Cennet , ŞAHİN Muhittin , YURDUGÜL Halil
Published: January 2023

Araştırmalarda değişkenler arasındaki anlamlı ilişkinin ya da bağıntının keşfedilmesi kadar bu anlamlılığının kaynağının belirlenmesi ve rapor edilmesi de önemlidir. İki yönlü olumsallık çizelgeleri (contingency table) üzerinde gerçekleştirilen ki-kare bağımsızlık testinin anlamlılık ile sonuçlanması durumunda post-hoc testlerinin işe koşulması gerekmektedir. Bu kapsamda çeşitli post-hoc testleri bulunmaktadır. Bu araştırmada gözenek artık (cellwise residual) testlerine odaklanılmıştır. Bu testler anlamlılık üzerinde çizelgedeki gözenek katkılarının değerlendirilmesini sağlamaktadır. Gözenek artık testleri standartlaştırılmış ve düzeltilmiş artık olmak üzere iki yaklaşımı içermektedir. Bu araştırma kapsamında olumsallık çizelgeleri, ki-kare ve artık analizlerine değinilmiş, post hoc yaklaşımlarından düzeltilmiş artık yaklaşımı tanıtılmıştır.
Extreme and Records Value Analysis for Evaluating Air Quality in Bekaa Valley, Lebanon
Authors:   the Univ Paris Est Creteil, LEESU, F-94010, Creteil, France, Atoui Alya , Andaloussi Sami Abbad , Slim Kamal , Moilleron Régis , Khraibani Zaher
Published: January 2023

Air pollution is a major public health problem that affects economic development, agriculture, and the ecosystem. Lebanon is one of the most polluted countries in the Middle East region due to the increase in the concentrations of atmospheric air pollution which exceed the required levels according to the global guidelines. The main objective of this paper is to identify the extreme concentrations of air pollutants in order to minimize their adverse effects. The peak of concentration of the pollution which is measured within a specific period could be described by using the extreme value theory mainly as one kind of the three different types of the extreme value theory and the record theory as a second kind. These two approaches will be applied to predict the expected extreme concentration in the future and the probability of occurrence of a new record. Whereas daily measurements of SO2, CO, NO, PM10, PM2.5 throughout the period 2016-2019 in the Bekaa Valley. The findings indicate that the concentrations of the 15, 30, 40, and 50-year return pollutant levels are continuously increasing. The percentage of the change of SO2, CO, NO, PM10, PM2.5 after 50 years is 64%, 5%, 3%, 29%, 20% and 12%, respectively. The records have been observed at the beginning of a time series and an interval point prediction was given for each measure. The future record values of SO2, CO, NO, PM10, PM2.5 were increased by 0.2%, 0.7%, 1%, 0.5%, 6%, and 5.7%, respectively, over 1 year. There was a 66% chance to observe a new record-breaking pollutant level that exceeded the guidelines after two years.