bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Students’ Attitudes Toward Assessment in Physical Education
Authors: Evangelou Efstathia , Digelidis Nikolaos , Krommidas Charalampos
Published: November 2022

Despite the recent increase in attention on studies focusing on different types of assessment of student participation in physical education (PE), there is little research concerning students’ attitudes toward the PE assessment process. This study aimed to investigate students’ attitudes toward assessment procedures in PE by developing and validating a quantitative instrument concerning crucial areas of pedagogy such as curriculum, teachers, grading, and fitness tests. It further investigates important attitude determinants such as grade level and gender differences. The scale was distributed to 1,403 students in the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 10th grades. Principal components analysis showed an eigenvalue factor greater than 1, which accounted for 47% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis yielded satisfactory indices that confirmed the unidimensional model with high internal consistency (α = .84). A two-way analysis of variance revealed a significant difference between the 7th and 10th grades. At the same time, students expressed a high level of positive attitudes toward the different aspects of assessment procedures. The study examined various aspects of students’ attitudes toward assessment and resulted in a reliable, valid, and easy-to-use quantitative instrument that can be used by educators and researchers to assess students’ attitudes toward assessment in PE.
The disease X: waiting for the next pandemic
Authors: Iskra Ewelina , Pachnia Agnieszka , Drop Bartłomiej , Polz-Dacewicz Małgorzata
Published: November 2022

In 2008 the WHO published a report on infectious diseases against which there is no effective treatment or vaccines and therefore – diseases able to cause pandemic. In addition, so called disease X was mentioned – potentially deadly, with no herd immunity against it, holding pandemic potential, unknown in medicine yet. In 2019 such disease X was COVID-19. There is a plausibility, that next pandemic will be induced by zoonotic RNA virus (alike SARS-CoV-2) infecting people in place of intensified human-animal contacts (like high-density animal farming) without proper legal regulations in terms of animal husbandry and high population density. Also in the past major pandemics in XX and XXI centuries were result of zoonotic transmissions (HIV/AIDS, SARS, MERS, Spanish flu, avian flu, swine flu, Ebola). The key in risk recognising is governments and international healthcare agencies’ reaction – proper countermeasures to control pandemic range should be taken. Animal trade should be legally regulated and deforestation limited. There is also an urgent need for funding R&D studies on diseases listed by the WHO.
The Legacy of an Accommodative Secularism: Religions and Taiwan’s Responses to COVID-19
Authors: Laliberté André
Published: November 2022

Throughout the two years of this pandemic, Taiwanese public authorities have obtained cooperation from religious organisations in limiting and mitigating the contagion, and the population was largely spared the influence of conspiracy theories about the virus’ origins. I have found no trace of any significant doomsday theologies among the major religions practiced in Taiwan emerging in the public health emergency caused by COVID-19. What explains this largely cooperative relationship? From the perspective of public policy, why has the government obtained the compliance of most religious actors to its directive and faced little or no opposition coming from them? I use a historical institutionalist approach to argue that decades of toleration from political leaders of all trends towards religions have generated a path dependency of mutual trust and that legacy predates the period of democratisation. The article explores the extent to which this outcome results from three factors: Taiwan’s religious diversity, or the absence of a religious hegemony opposed to the state; pragmatic and flexible theologies; and/or convergence between successive Taiwanese governments’ social policies and the social teachings of religions.
Accounting Discretion, Loan Loss Provision in Financial Distress: Evidence from Commercial Banks
Authors: Malik Amina , Din Shahab Ud , Shafi Khuram , Butt Babar Zaheer , Aziz Haroon
Published: November 2022

This study explores the association between earning management practices and financial distress in commercial banks. Earning management is measured through discretionary loan loss provisions and non-discretionary loan loss provisions. Modified Altman’s Z-score has been used as a proxy for financial distress. Panel regression with fixed and random effect has been employed for empirical analysis. The study finds a significant positive association between DLLP, NDLLP and financial distress in terms of the Altman Z-score. In the case of NDLLP, liquidity reduces the probability of financial distress. Whereas, a bank’s SIZE, LEVG and AQ enhance the likelihood of financial distress. The robustness tests were applied to find the association between NDLLP and FD using logistic regression to validate baseline estimates results of the random effect model. The findings of this study have implications for the policymakers, regulators and internal stakeholders to devise effective regulatory measures for well-informed investment decisions.
Relationship between Cultural Origin of Multinational Companies and Employing Expatriates in Foreign Subsidiaries in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Fehér János , Kollár Péter , Szobi Ádám , Urbán Anna , Jarjabka Ákos , Poór József
Published: November 2022

In the present study, we examine the question of whether the cultural characteristics of the country of the parent company are related to the posting practices of the parent company. According to our hypothesis, the management culture of the sending (parent) company influences the employment of foreign expats in local subsidiaries. In this research we use interviews and multivariate statistical analysis of survey data from five CEE countries, an important but relatively less examined region for global HR mobility. We found a significant relationship between cultural differences and expatriate assignment practices of MNCs. However, based on the strength of the relationship, we can conclude that in addition to management culture, other influencing factors typically influence posting decisions. Our results support Hofstede’s suggestion about the cultural dependence of management methods from a specific, management of expatriates, perspective.
Modelling CESEE Countries Export Dynamics: Global Vector Autoregressive Approach
Authors: Jakšić Saša
Published: November 2022

One of the main aspects of the transition process in Central, Eastern and Southeastern European (CESEE) countries was the trade liberalisation. As their financial systems are still underdeveloped and the trade channel is the dominant shock transmitter, this paper focuses on export dynamics for a selected set of CESEE countries. The employed methodology, Global Vector Autoregressive (GVAR) approach, allows modelling interactions and spillovers among countries. Furthermore, it enables joint modelling of exports and imports. This is of particular importance as the opening of new markets enabled astonishing export growth, but also opened the CESEE markets to foreign products. The empirical analysis reveals that a shock in German imports has a larger impact on CESEE countries’ exports than a shock in German output. Moreover, the results indicate that the role of the real exchange rate is less pronounced in comparison to previous similar research.
Reinforcing Effect of Terrorism and Corruption Nexus on Net Migration from Developing Countries: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Nusrat Mahnoor , Yasmin Bushra
Published: November 2022

The study intends to investigate the direct and indirect effect of terrorism and corruption on net migration for thirty-eight developing countries, along with other macroeconomic determinants like per capita GDP, globalization, inflation and institutional quality for the time period 1985-2015. Based on the Fixed and Random Effects models, findings show that terrorism and GDP per capita has negative while globalization has positively significant effect on the net migration in selected developing countries. The corruption and terrorism appeared to reinforcing each other in stimulating migration. Particularly, terrorism seeks its ways through corrupt financial activities which distorts the labor market and ultimately results in relatively large out-migration. The study suggests implementation of stiff anti-terrorism policies to improve domestic environment along with promoting globalization in such a way which can offer positive effect of out-migration on the domestic economy in the long run. And that is expected to take place at the onset of return migration of labor with enhanced skills and capabilities.
Developing a Hierarchical Model for the Drivers of Digital Banking – an Interpretive Structural Modelling Approach
Authors: Albugami Moteb Ayesh
Published: November 2022

In its resolve for digital banking, the researchers have developed various models like TAM, UTAUT 1 and UTAUT 2 which aim to identify the key drivers of digital banking. This study primarily intends to comprehend the significance of different drivers of digital banking by developing a hierarchical model of key drivers of digital banking. The hierarchical model is done using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM. The study comprises of the drivers that could be directly impacting the adoption of digital banking. These constructs have been categorized and mapped using driving power-dependence diagram.
Macroeconomic Shocks and Employment in sub-Sharan Africa: Do Labour Market Institutions Matter?
Authors: Adegboye Abidemi C. , Alao-Owunna Ifeoluwa , Bank-Ola Folake R.
Published: November 2022

The effects of macroeconomic shocks and labour market institutions on employment in sub-Saharan African countries are examined in this study. Using a sample of 27 SSA countries for the period 2007 to 2018, both linear and interactive relationships are investigated. The results show that labour market institutions (especially in terms of wage flexibility) dampen the effects of shocks on modern employment but amplify the effects of shocks on informal employment in the sampled SSA countries. There is also evidence that shocks themselves (especially those emanating from the external sector) do not matter for a huge proportion of employment changes in SSA countries. Rather, the direct effects of shocks on employment are more profound in the formal sector. The study therefore concludes that reforming the informal sector will help to ensure the effectiveness of labour market institutions in mitigating the negative impacts of external shocks on employment in SSA.
Connection between State Funding and International Sporting Success: The Case of Croatia
Authors: Škorić Sanela , Obadić Evica
Published: November 2022

The aim of this paper is to determine the types and intensity of connection between the amount of state funding for various programmes in sport invested by Croatian Olympic Committee from 2001 until 2016 and international sporting success of Croatian athletes. A connection between 12 independent variables (funds invested in 33 summer Olympic sports (24 individual and 9 team sports) broken down in 8 specific programmes, as well as the number of athletes and coaches in different programmes) and international sporting success was tested using regression analysis. The results show statistically significant logarithm connection between success and total funds invested (ACR=0.160,R2=0.319, p=0.001). Additionally, three variables showed linear, eight logarithm and one quadratic type of connection. Applying different regression models contributes to better understanding of connection between the amount and direction of investments in high performance sport and result of those investments in the form of achieved international sporting success.
Public Health Investment, Human Capital Accumulation, and Labour Productivity: Evidence from West Africa
Authors: Ohikhuare Obaika , Oyewole Oluwatomisin , Adedeji Adedayo
Published: November 2022

The study of public health investment, human capital accumulation, and labour productivity are essential in formulating policies that drive economic development. This study examines the individual and interactive effects of public health investment and human capital accumulation and the interactive effect of human capital accumulation and financial opportunity on labour productivity in West Africa from 1992 to 2020, respectively. The interactive effect of human capital accumulation and financial opportunity has not been given any attention in the literature. The following findings are apparent in the study: One, public health Investment and human capital accumulation positively affect labour productivity in the short and long run. Two, the interactive effect of human capital accumulation and public Health Investment positively and significantly affect labour productivity in the short and long run. Lastly, the interactive effect of human capital accumulation and financial opportunity positively and significantly affects labour productivity in the short and long run. Hence, we suggest that economic policy be formulated to ensure that affordable healthcare and financial opportunity are available, together with human capital accumulation, to fast-track the normalization of the economy.
The Hard Truth on Fixed-Term Employment and Organizational Performance – Survey-Based Evidence from Hungary
Authors: Vörös Máté , Ásványi Zsófia , Fűrész Diána Ivett
Published: November 2022

We understand that atypical employment can be sustained if it provides benefits for both the employer and the employee, but these benefits, in most cases, have only an indirect effect on profit. This study examines whether workers with fixed-term employment could be more effective regarding certain performance indicators than their co-workers with indefinite employment contracts. Results show that in one of the two examined performance indicators (number of clients served), individuals working in an atypical form of employment are more efficient for almost all variables, while for the second performance indicator (value creation), they are not more efficient for either of the variables.
Meningkatkan Potensi Pariwisata di Dusun Pangukrejo, Cangkringan, Sleman dengan Implementasi Komposisi dalam Fotografi Wisata
Authors: Wulandari Arti
Published: November 2022

Dusun Pangukrejo merupakan salah satu daerah wisata bencana dengan potensi wisata yang sangat memukau. Maraknya lava tour dengan kendaraan jip terbuka pascaerupsi Gunung Merapi menyuburkan satu lahan pencaharian baru di dusun tersebut, yaitu bisnis jasa fotografi yang biasanya kerap dijadikan satu paket dengan jip pariwisata. Tujuan penyuluhan adalah (1) menanamkan pengetahuan dan pemahaman dasar tentang teknik dasar fotografi, (2) menanamkan pengetahuan dan kemampuan untuk menerapkan komposisi fotografi, dan (3) menanamkan pengetahuan dan kemampuan untuk menerapkan proses olah foto dengan digital imaging. Metode yang digunakan adalah metode ceramah kepada peserta; metode tanya jawab yang dilakukan secara interaktif untuk saling berdiskusi, bertukar pendapat, dan menganalisis serta mengevaluasi; dan metode belajar mandiri oleh peserta untuk mencoba mengaplikasikan pengetahuan yang sudah didapatnya dari penyuluhan. Fokus materi penyuluhan ialah (1) teknik dasar fotografi secara umum; (2) komposisi fotografi, dan (3) digital imaging sederhana. Dalam penyuluhan seni ini tampak antusiasme peserta yang sebetulnya sangat tinggi. Namun sayang, keinginan mereka untuk belajar lebih jauh mengenai fotografi sering terkendala oleh jadwal kerja mereka memotret para wisatawan. Penyuluhan seni fotografi telah berhasil dilaksanakan dengan baik dan diharapkan warga yang sudah diberi penyuluhan mampu tetap berlatih dan menerapkan pengetahuan dan tambahan keterampilan yang sudah didapatkan selama penyuluhan.
Kebijakan Perdagangan Impor Bahan Baku Industri Makanan dan Minuman
Authors: Lagaida Bugi Biruloma , Novianti Tanti
Published: November 2022

Food and Beverage processing industry is the greatest contributor to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Indonesia. Additionally, the demand of food and beverages product is rising along with population; about 8.4% rise in 2011 to 2019. The food and beverage processing industry is the most priority in the national industry development. Main constrain for food and beverage processing industry growth is raw material availability. This industry need raw material with certain specification and volume. Raw material from domestic did not qualify such as quality and quantity. From this, raw material for food processing industry is fulfilled by import raw material. This thesis aims to investigate which raw materials that most fulfilled by import and what trade policy happen in import materials.
Ironing process in conditions of constant and
variable lateral force
Authors: Djačić Slaviša , Aleksandrović Srbislav , Arsić Dušan , Delić Marko , Lazić Vukić
Published: November 2022

Comparison of application of constant and variable lateral force in strip ironing process with double side thinning are presented in the paper. Given are the experimental results for single and multiphase ironing process with constant lateral force during the course of particular process. Material used was mild steel DC04. Stripes were 20 mm wide and 2.5 mm thick.Constant lateral force intensities were 5, 10 and 15 kN. Lubrication was with appropriate mineral oil and grease.In other side given is analysis of idea of possibility to apply variable lateral force during the strip ironing process and consequences of this action. Expected is control of strip thickness variation with difficulties because of contact and other
appearances influence.
On “Generalized Upper Bound” method and its application to some plane strain compression and extrusion problems
Authors: S. Das Nitai , Joardar Hillol Joardar , Rout Matruprasad , C. Behera Bikash , Maity Kalipada
Published: November 2022

This paper outlines the salient features of the “generalized upper bound” technique and uses it to derive upper bounds for plane strain compression and extrusion of metals in the presence of Coulomb friction (τ = µp). For compression the velocity field is established by reformulating the same proposed earlier by Lee and Altan so as to be compatible with the interface Coulomb friction condition. For extrusion, the upper bound velocity field is derived from a stream function for flow through a smooth die of wedge angle (α+λ) where, α is the semi-wedge angle of the rough die, and λ is the friction angle (tanλ = µ). Analysis for this case is also presented assuming the flow to be radial. The analytical results are compared with those obtained from, the slip-line field and finite element analyses and from the rigid triangle velocity fields. These are also validated by some e experimental results available in literature.
Fatigue endurance analysis of a surface stress raiser
Authors: Boljanović Slobodanka , Posavljak Strain , Maksimović Stevan
Published: November 2022

Fatigue-induced flaws play an important role in safety-integrity performances of large moving systems. Therefore, the present research work proposes a computational model to gain insight into such surface stress raisers. The analysis shows that a combination of damage-tolerance design with fracture mechanics-based concept is a key to generating relevant relationships between fatigue life and stress intensities.
Thermal properties of armour steel protac 600
Authors: Lešnjak Matic , Kosec Borut , Karpe Blaž Karpe , Janjić Goran , Gojić Mirko , Bernetič Jure , Kosec Gorazd
Published: November 2022

Steels from the group PROTAC are distinguished by good mechanical properties and excellent armour properties even at small thicknesses. The mechanical properties of PROTAC 600 steel are known, while data on thermal properties (thermal conductivity, specific heat and temperature conductivity) are not available, so in the frame of our work we determined its thermal properties.
As the first part of the work, a study and evaluation of the operation of the device for determining the thermal properties of Hot Disk TPS 2200, today one of the more modern and high-quality instruments for determining thermal properties.
In the second part of the work, we performed measurements of thermal properties in accordance with the standard ISO 22007-2 at ambient temperature. The values of thermal properties of PROTAC 600 steel at ambient temperature (approximately 22 °C) are: thermal conductivity 28.69 W/mK, specific heat 3.94 MJ/m3K, and temperature conductivity 7.29 mm2/s. We found that steel PROTAC 600 has more than 10% higher heat conductivity in comparison with the steel of previous generation PROTAC 500.
Determining of the Fatigue Crack Growth Rate of HSLA Steel at Room Temperature
Authors: Bulatović Srđan , Aleksića Vujadin , Milović Ljubica , Zečević Bojana
Published: November 2022

Welded joint is a critical region of a welded structure and fracture mechanics analysis is inevitable in the structural integrity assessment of all welded structures. This paper shows the determining of parameters of the fatigue crack for constituents of welded joints produced of high strength low alloyed steel. The applied methodology refers to the Paris relation where the link was established between the variable load quantity or the corresponding stress intensity factor range and crack growth per cycle. Results have shown that the position of the notch and crack initiation affect the values of the stress intensity range of fatigue threshold ΔKth and parameters in the Paris’ equation. This is mostly expressed when determining growth parameters of the fatigue crack in heat affected zone of HSLA steel, where different changes of growth speed of the fatigue crack clearly express differences in structure of the crack pass.
Energy input adaptation according to part geometry in selective laser melting through empirical modelling of thermal emission
Authors: Vasileska Ema , Demir Ali Gökhan , Colosimob Bianca Maria , Gečevska Valentina , Previtali Barbara
Published: November 2022

Common practice in Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is employing a series of fixed process parameters throughout the whole build. However, process thermal conditions strongly depend on the local geometry of the part. Formation of some common defects, including swelling regions and elevated zones, emerges in critical corner areas due to excessive heat accumulation when constant parameters are used. Adaptation of energy input according to the geometry of the processed zone is highly desirable for avoiding defect formation. To assess the processing conditions, observation of the melt pool and its variation as a function of the process parameters with a coaxial camera operating in near infrared (NIR) demonstrated to be a feasible option. This work develops an empirical model that gives the correct amount of energy input to achieve stable melt pool depending on the single vector length, hence the part geometry. The model was validated on a prototype SLM system, and the results showed that controlling the process parameters considerably improves the geometrical accuracy of the parts with sharp edges prone to hot spot formation.
Effects of plasma electrolytic polishing on SLM printed microfluidic platform
Authors: Sabotin Izidor , Jerman Marko , Lebar Andrej , Valentinčič Joško , Böttger Toni , Kühnel Lisa , Zeidler Henning
Published: November 2022

Additive manufacturing (AM) of metallic parts is gaining momentum in production industries. In view of producing a metal microproduct using AM the issue of high surface roughness is prominent. Plasma electrolytic Polishing (PeP) is a post processing technology that greatly reduces surface roughness of metallic parts. In this paper the effects of PeP of microfluidic platform, printed with selective laser melting (SLM) technology, is presented. The results show that surface roughness of the specimens was severely reduced. Also, some geometrical defects inherent to SLM technology were partly removed. It is shown, that for smaller geometrical microfeatures (sizes of less than 0.5 mm) the effectiveness of PeP is reduced. Through this investigation it can be concluded that PeP is a promising post-processing technology for SLM printed microparts since it significantly improves the overall part quality. However, further improvements of the process chain need to be implemented in order to render the microfluidic platform functional.
3D Printing of parts using metal extrusion: an overview of shaping debinding and sintering technology
Authors: Galantucci Luigi Maria , Pellegrini Alessandro , Guerra Maria Grazia , Lavecchia Fulvio
Published: November 2022

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is the fabrication of real three-dimensional objects from plastics and metals by adding material, layer by layer. One of the most common AM processes is the Material Extrusion (ME) based on different approaches: plunger, filament and screw. Material Extrusion technologies of metal-polymer composites is expanding and it mainly uses the filament or plunger-based approaches. The feedstock used is a mixture of metal powder (from 55 vol% to about 80 vol%) dispersed in a thermoplastic matrix, as the Metal Injection Molding (MIM) materials. The process consists of three steps: shaping, debinding and sintering. The first step provides the extrusion of filament to realize a primary piece called “green part”; subsequent steps, debinding and sintering, allow to obtain a full metal part by dissolving the polymeric binder. The latter can be carried out using solvents, heat and the combination of them. The interest toward this technology is driven by the possibility to replace other Metal AM technologies, such as Selective Laser Melting or Direct Energy Deposition, in sectors like rapid-tooling or mass production, with several benefits: simplicity, safety to use and saving material and energy. The aim of this keynote is to provide a general overview of the main metal ME technologies considering the more technical aspects such as process methodologies, 3D printing strategy, process parameters, materials and possible applications for the manufacturing of samples on a 3D consumer printer.
Verification of inverse kinematic equations for a five-axis machine tool with a spindle tilting configuration
Authors: Maletić Julija , Živanović Saša
Published: November 2022

In this paper, the methodology for verifying inverse kinematic equations is presented. Analysis of the kinematic structure of the machine is shown, which results in the kinematic equations needed for the configuration of the machine's postprocessor. The machine proposed in this paper is a five-axis machine tool with two rotating axes on the spindle. The machine's configuration is X'OYZBA. The derived equations are used to transform the CL data for a test model into a G code used on a virtual model of the machine tool. A simplified model of the machine is developed using the PTC Creo software, in which the initial testing of the equations was performed. The inverse kinematic equations were implemented in a postprocessing program using the Matlab software. Generated G-code for multi-axis machining process was tested on a virtual machine tool in the Vericut software.
Feasibility of additive manufacturing processes for lunar soil simulants
Authors: Ignjatović Stupar Danijela , Robert Chabrol Grégoire , Ibrahim Baraze Abdoul Razak , Lecler Sylvain , Tessier Alexandre , Thierry Cutard , Brendle Jocelyne
Published: November 2022

Combination of In-situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) and on-site Additive Manufacturing (AM) is one of the “outer space applied technologies” candidates where free shape fabrication from micro (e.g., tools) to mega scale (e.g. lunar habitats) will allow in coming future to settle the Moon or potentially other celestial bodies. Within this research, Selected Laser Melting (SLM) of lunar soil (regolith) simulants (LHS-1 LMS-1 and JSC-2A) using a continuous wave 100 W 1090 nm fiber laser was applied. The resulting samples were mechanically and optically characterized. A numerical multiphysics model was developed to understand the heat transfer and optimize the SLM process. Results obtained are in good agreement with the numerical model. The physical and chemical characteristics of the various materials (granulometry, density, composition, and thermal properties) have a strong impact on the AM parameters.
Oral health status among orphan and non-orphan children in Mashhad: a case-control study
Authors: Meshki Razie ,   Department of Pedodontics, Dental School, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, Basir Leila ,   Department of Pedodontics, Dental School, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, Motaghi Shiva ,   Department of Pedodontics, Dental School, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran,   Shiva Motaghi, Department of Pedodontics, Dental School, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran. E-mail: shivamotaghi@yahoo.com, Kazempour Maryam ,   Department of Pedodontics, Dental School, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
Published: November 2022

Developing and modifying the policies of orphanages requires the availability of accurate information. This study aimed to compare caries and oral hygiene status among orphan and non-orphan children. This descriptive cross-sectional study took place in governmental orphanages and schools of both genders in Mashhad, Iran. The prevalence of caries was assessed using the Decayed, Missing and Filled Tooth (DMFT) index, and oral health status was assessed using the Oral Hygiene Index – Simplified (OHI-S). The results were statistically analyzed using a t-test and Chi-Square test. The mean DMFT was 3.36 in orphans and 2.10 in non-orphan children, which was not statistically significant (p=0.6). The mean dmft was 9.01 in the orphan group and 5.26 in the non-orphan group, which was statistically significant (p=0.003). The average OHI-S index was 2.30 in the group of orphan children and 1.05 in the non-orphan children, presenting a statistically significant difference (p=0.00). The prevalence of caries, especially in deciduous teeth, was high among orphan children. The oral health status of these children was worse than that of children living at home. Consequently, there is a need for proper planning to promote the oral health of children living in orphanages.
Molecular detection of Metallo-Beta-Lactamase and alginate in multidrug resistance Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from the clinical specimen
Authors: Qader Govend Musa ,   Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Salahaddin-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq, Jarjees Khanzad Khudhur ,   Department of Food Technology, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Salahaddin-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq,   Khanzad Khudhur Jarjees, Department of Food Technology, College of Agriculture, University of Salahaddin, Erbil, Iraq. E-mail: khanzad.jarjees@su.edu.krd, Jarjees Rozhhalat Khudhur ,   Department of Pharmacy, Erbil Medical Technical Institute, Erbil Polytechnic University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
Published: November 2022

Pseudomonas aeruginosa pathogen is opportunistic. Several virulence factors and biofilms can cause its pathogenicity. Furthermore, infections triggered via multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa among hospitalized patients are a public health concern. The primary antimicrobial agents in treating Gram-negative infection include Meropenem and Imipenem. Moreover, the spread of Carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa is a focal concern worldwide. The present research aims to determine the spread of Carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa, and the distribution of the Alginate and Metallo-beta-lactamase encoding gene in clinical isolates. In the present cross-sectional descriptive research, 50 wound and sputum clinical specimens were obtained. Isolates were all identified by applying cultural characteristics and biochemical tests. The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was conducted to distinguish algD, BLA-VIM, BLA-IMP, and 16SrRNA genes. Moreover, the phenotypic method was used to detect hemolysin. The disk diffusion technique was applied to screen clinical isolates for eight antimicrobial agents. The PCR results showed all isolates to be positive for algD and negative for BLA-VIM and BLA-IMP genes. Hemolysin and multidrug resistance prevalence was 100% and 76%, respectively. Furthermore, Meropenem proved to be the most efficient antibiotic against clinical isolates. Alginate and hemolysin are considered significant virulence factors for P. aeruginosa, playing a key role in triggering diseases and tissue or skin lesions. The emergence of Multidrug Resistant (MDR) isolates indicates that developing antibiotic stewardship in our regional community hospital is a top priority. Infection control measures could help control the distribution of virulence genes in P. aeruginosa isolates. Moreover, regular observation is needed to decrease public health threats, distributing virulence factors and Imipenem-resistance patterns in clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa.
Dipyridamole ameliorates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity
Authors: Alyasiry Esraa ,   Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, Jabir Ibn Hayyan Medical University, Najaf, Iraq, Janabi Ali ,   Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq, Hadi Najah ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq,   Najah Hadi, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq E-mail: drnajahhadi@yahoo.com
Published: November 2022

Dipyridamole is a platelet inhibitor with antithrombotic properties that can help prevent stroke recurrence. Twenty-eight male rats were divided randomly into four groups (7 rats in each group). Control group: rats received a natural diet and water. Normal saline group: rats received 0.9% normal saline for two weeks. Doxorubicin group (induced group): rats received 2.5 mg/kg three times a week for two weeks. Dipyridamole group (dipyridamole treated group): received dipyridamole (6 mg/kg/daily) orally for two weeks. Doxorubicin caused cardiotoxicity as indicated by a significant increase in tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, malondialdehyde, and caspase-3 level (P<0.05), while total antioxidant capacity and Bcl-2 levels were significantly reduced in cardiac tissues of rats in the doxorubicin group compared to the normal saline control group (P<0.05). Dipyridamole significantly ameliorates doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity, as suggested by a significant decrease in inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6) (P<0.05). Moreover, the cardiac tissue level of oxidative marker malondialdehyde was significantly decreased (P<0.05), and total antioxidant capacity significantly increased in the dipyridamole group in comparison to the doxorubicin-only group (P<0.05). Dipyridamole exerted a significant heart-protective effect against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats, probably via interfering with oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and apoptotic pathway. The goal of this study was to investigate the potential protective effect of dipyridamole against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via interfering with pro-inflammatory, oxidative, and apoptotic pathways.
Identification of vascular endothelial growth factor in preeclampsia in Iraqi women
Authors: Al-Ghazali Basima ,   Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq,   Basima Al-Ghazali, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq. E-mail: basima.alghazali@uokufa.edu.iq, Khadim Muna ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Hospital, Kufa, Iraq, Hamza Sara ,   High Institute for Infertility Diagnosis and Assisted Reproductive Technologies, Baghdad, Iraq, Al-Haddad Hawraa Sahib ,   Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq,   https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8564-3202, Jumaah Alaa Salah ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq,   https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9709-1460, Hadi Najah ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, Iraq
Published: November 2022

Preeclampsia (PE) is a major obstetric syndrome and represents a pregnancy hypertensive disease affecting about 2–8% of pregnancies. Typically, it occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy, being classified as early or late in accordance with the gestational age at diagnosis or delivery. An imbalance between angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors has an important role in the pathophysiology of PE. It was hypothesized that the dysfunctional endothelium contributes to the pathogenesis of PE. A change in the production of Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGR), a biomarker of endothelial dysfunction, is associated with this disease, whether presenting an increase, decrease, or being at a normal level. This study examined the associations between VEGF and preeclampsia and the importance of this VEGF as a predictor of its severity. This case-control study included 50 patients with preeclampsia and 50 normotensive pregnant women in the control group. Venous blood was aspirated from each patient, and VEGF levels were measured from sera. The mean VEGF for patients with mild PE was 29.410±18.976 pg/ml, for those with severe PE it was 36.188±36.98 pg/ml, and for normotensive women it was 92.104±154.715 pg/ml. There were significant differences in VEGF levels between the studied groups (P=0.024). This study showed that serum VEGF levels were significantly reduced in patients with preeclampsia compared with normotensive pregnant women, suggesting marked endothelial dysfunction. This led to widespread vasoconstriction and, in turn, caused hypertension and proteinuria.
Gene expression of carbonic anhydrase 9 (CA9) in de novo acute leukemia as a predictive marker for prognosis
Authors: Alyaqubi Kifah Jabbar ,   Middle Euphrates of Cancer Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq, Dosh Rasha Hatem ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq, Al-Fatlawi Rawaa Behlul ,   Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq, Al-Rehemi Siham Mahmood ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq, Hadi Najah Rayish ,   Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq,   Najah Rayish Hadi, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq. E-mail: drnajahhadi@yahoo.com
Published: November 2022

Carbonic anhydrase 9 (CA9) is a marker for decreased O2 concentration and acidosis, associated with poor prognosis in cancerous patients. The current study suggested that the changes in CA9 gene expression level might be used as a predictive marker to assess early prognosis at the time of detection of de novo leukemia, and then monitor tumor progress during treatment. This study highlights the level of CA9 gene expression in leukemic patients. A total of 44 cases (acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) group: 23 cases; acute lymphoid leukaemia (ALL) group: 13 cases; control group: 8 healthy volunteers) were selected for this study. The CA9 gene expression was assessed by a real-time PCR with the SYBR green assay. A high level of CA9 gene expression was noticed in AML patients compared to the control group, while the results were not significant in ALL patients. After treatment follow-up, significant differences were observed in CA9 gene expression between a complete response and no response in AML patients. As a result, the CA9 tumor gene could act as a potential early marker for acute leukemia prognosis. A low level of CA9 expression was associated with better clinical outcomes, while a high level was related to a negative prognosis in patients with AML.
Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA): first twelve case series in Erbil, Iraq
Authors: Jabbar Samir Anwar ,   General Surgery Department, Erbil Teaching Hospital, Erbil, Iraq,   Samir Anwar Jabbar, General Surgery Department, Erbil Teaching Hospital, Erbil, Iraq. E-mail: samir.barznjy@gmail.com, Werdi Nooraddin Ismail Alla ,   General Surgery Department, Rizgari Teaching Hospital, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
Published: November 2022

Endoscopic thyroid surgery has gained popularity with the advances in laparoscopic and endoscopic instruments and techniques. Of all endoscopic approaches for thyroidectomy, the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is the most promising procedure as it avoids neck scars and has less tissue dissection than other endoscopic techniques. This study aimed to present our first impression and initial experience with TOETVA in Erbil city. Twelve patients underwent surgery between November 2020 and April 2021, including eleven females and one male. Eleven total thyroidectomies and one lobectomy were performed. We found no significant postoperative complications. TOETVA is a safe and effective procedure, but it is challenging, needs good skills, and is a promising technique.
The experiences of nursing students using virtual education during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mousavizadeh Seyedeh Narjes ,   Department of Psychiatric Nursing and Management, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,   Seyedeh Narjes Mousavizadeh, Department of Psychiatric Nursing and Management, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. E-mail: n.mousavi@sbmu.ac.ir
Published: November 2022

Due to the rapid spread of COVID-19, virtual education was proposed globally. This study aimed to examine the views and experiences of nursing students regarding quality, quantity, e-learning challenges, and solutions. This is a qualitative study using a purposive sampling method in which 42 nursing students were included. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured face-to-face or telephone interviews and analyzed using content analysis. Concepts that were raised in the experience of nursing students were: "Incompatibility of educational processes", including ineffective teaching methods, limited interaction, limited feedback, low creativity, and educational injustice. "Loss of opportunities" including lack of clinical competence, concern for job opportunities, and lack of time management. "Imposed burnout", including forced labor and personal protection. "Personal helplessness", including lack of access to electronic facilities, struggles with the coronavirus, unemployment, and family conflicts. The enforcement of e-learning imposed restrictions on students with different conditions. Older students, those living in rural areas, students with work and family responsibilities, and people with limited electronic resources experienced challenges that require educational management based on challenges. Because e-learning goes beyond COVID-19 and given the continuing trend in e-learning in the coming years, it is necessary to address these challenges.
The effect of isokinetic hip muscle strength on normal medial longitudinal arch feet and pes planus
Authors: Alahmri Fayez ,   Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Alsaadi Saad ,   Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia, Ahsan Mohammad ,   Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia,   Mohammad Ahsan, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia. E-mail: mahsan@iau.edu.sa,   https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0232-3658, Almousa Sulaiman ,   Orthopedic Department, King Fahd Hospital of the University, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Published: November 2022

Pes planus is a common foot and ankle physiologic deformity. The normal medial longitudinal arch is depressed or flattened due to a lack of strength in associated muscles, ligaments, and tendons. This study aimed to investigate how isokinetic hip muscular strength affected normal medial longitudinal arch feet and pea planus. Forty adult subjects participated in this study: 20 with pea planus and 20 with normal medial longitudinal arched feet. Both groups were similar in age (p=.074), weight (p=.324), height (p=.211), and BMI (p=.541). The navicular drop test determined the differences in navicular height. An isokinetic dynamometer was used to determine hip muscular strength (peak torque and total work) during hip flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction at speeds of 90°/s and 180°/s. A Kruskal-Wallis test was computed to determine the comparison between the normal medial longitudinal arch and pea planus. Subjects with normal medial longitudinal arch had more muscle strength than pes planus. Hip muscle strength did not show any significant difference between both groups. The abductor and adductor group muscles' total work were higher in subjects with pes planus. This study showed that normal medial longitudinal arched foot subjects have higher muscle strength than pes planus. However, the hip abductors were significantly lower in pes planus after measuring the total work, suggesting that individuals with pes planus are easily fatigued, possibly due to the overuse of the muscles that compensate for any changes in lower limb alignment.
Evaluation of IL-17 and IL-35 in patients with giardiasis in Thi-Qar province, Iraq
Authors: Hadi Wed Shakir ,   Directorate of Dhi Qar Education, Ministry of Education, Dhi Qar, Iraq, Salman Rabab Shaker ,   Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Chemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Thi Qar University, Dhi Qar, Iraq, Al-Fahham Ali Abdulzahra ,   Basic Science Department, Faculty of Nursing, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq, Faryad Khan Muhammad Usman ,   State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China, Kadir Sunarto ,   Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia, Laft Methaq Hadi ,   Iraqi Ministry of Education, Al-Qadisiyah, Iraq, Saeed Balsam Qubais ,   Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah,United Arab Emirates, Kadhum Wesam Radhi ,   Department of Pharmacy, Kut College University, Kut, Iraq, Jalil Abduladheem Turki ,   Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Babylon, Iraq,   Abduladheem Turki Jalil, Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, Babylon, Iraq. E-mail: abedalazeem799@gmail.com,   https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8403-7465, Kadhim Mustafa Mohammed ,   Department of Dentistry, Kut College University, Kut, Iraq,   College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq,   Mustafa Mohammed Kadhim, Department of Dentistry, Kut College University, Kut, Iraq. College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq. E-mail: mustafa_kut88@yahoo.com
Published: November 2022

Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, Cryptosporidium, and Blastocystis are some parasites primarily responsible for human infections. Giardia lamblia, also known as Giardia intestinalis or Giardia duodenalis, is a common pathogenic protozoan found in the human duodenum and jejunum that causes giardiasis. This study collected stool and blood samples from patients with diarrhea aged less than 1 month to 15 years, from September 2020 to December 2020, in Thi-Qar province. Our study aimed to reveal the diagnosis of Giardia lamblia using direct microscopy examination and detect some immunological parameters such as IL-17 and IL-35 in patients infected with giardiasis.