Kurdistan Region Research Articles

Preoperative Echocardiographic Assessment in Elective Surgery Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study From Duhok, Iraqi Kurdistan.

Background and aim Echocardiography plays a pivotal role in the preoperative risk assessment of patients undergoing various surgical procedures. Therefore, we conducted this study to detect various cardiac abnormalities through a preoperative echocardiographic study for cases undergoing elective surgeries in Duhok, Iraqi Kurdistan. Methods This cross-sectional study assessed echocardiographic findings in preoperative patients at Azadi Teaching Hospital, Duhok, Kurdistan Region of Iraq, from 2023 to 2024. The study encompasses 468 adult patients. We gathered clinicodemographic characteristics, indications of referral to a preoperative echo study, and the echocardiographic findings, particularly regional wall motion abnormalities, valvular heart diseases, and heart failure (systolic or diastolic/left ventricular hypertrophy). Results In a cohort of 468 patients, 205 (43.80%) were aged 35-54 years, and 269 (57.48%) were female. Most patients (366; 78.21%) resided in Duhok. Nearly only half of the cases 219 (46.79%) had clear preoperative echostudy indications. A total of 289 (61.74%) had no remarkable echocardiographic findings. Diastolic heart failure was most prevalent at 65 (13.89%). Older cases had more prevalent echo findings in terms of valve dysfunctions and heart failure. Notable associations were found between echocardiographic abnormalities and surgical types, particularly higher regional wall motion abnormalities in genito-urinary system operations (4; 8.16%) and valvular heart disease in orthopedic surgeries (13; 15.85%). Conclusions Echocardiographic abnormalities were remarkably observed in patients aged 65 and older. Many cases had no clear indications for preoperative echo study and hence unremarkable echo findings. More scrutiny is indicated during referral, and focusing on older adults' preoperative cardiac screening is recommended.

Deep learning-based digitization of Kurdish text handwritten in the e-government system

Many government institutions in developing countries such as the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) keep a variety of paper-based records that are available in printed or handwritten format. The need for technology that turns handwritten writing into digital text is therefore highly demanded. E-government in developed and developing countries is a crucial facilitator for the provision of such services. This paper aims to develop a deep learning model based on the mask region convolutional neural network (mask-RCNN) to effectively digitize kurdish handwritten text recognition (KHTR). In this research, typical datasets, which includes the isolated handwritten Central Kurdish character images, an extensive database of 40,410 images, and 390 native writers have been produced to determine the developed approach’s performance in terms of identification rates. This approach achieves adequate outcomes in terms of training time and accuracy. The proposed model gives higher performance for detection, localization, and recognition when using a dataset containing many challenges, the results were 80%, 96%, and 87.6 for precision, recall, and F-score respectively. The findings revealed that the proposed model obtained better results compared to other similar works. The accuracy of optical character recognition (OCR) is more than 99%.

Comments: Celebrating a Legacy: 100 Years of Innovation and 75 Years of JPT at the 2024 ATCE

_ Are you ready to join us for SPE’s Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) in New Orleans, 23–25 September? As SPE celebrates a century of innovation at the 2024 ATCE, we also mark the 75th anniversary of the Journal of Petroleum Technology (JPT). These twin milestones stand as a testament to the achievements that have driven our field forward—innovation, pushing boundaries, setting new standards, and fueling the energy that powers the world. Through the highs of technological breakthroughs and the lows of economic challenges, the oil and gas industry—and ATCE and JPT—have continually evolved, proving their resilience and adaptability. When considering the innovations in our industry, key advancements that often stand out include hydraulic fracturing, horizontal drilling, deepwater exploration, enhanced oil recovery, digitalization and automation, LNG technology, FPSOs, subsea systems, and decarbonization and emissions mitigation. However, the incremental steps that collectively contributed to the broadly defined “wow” factors above are equally notable. To mention only a sampling: enhanced drill-bit designs, advancements in onshore and offshore drilling rigs, real-time data collection, development of 4D seismic technology, integration of multiple data types (e.g., seismic, well logs, production data) for more-comprehensive reservoir characterization, materials-science advancements (polymers, nanocoatings), development of blowout preventers, improved leak-detection systems, and advancements in produced-water treatment and recycling technologies. Less often recognized are the failures that were essential prerequisites for eventual success. The "fail fast, fail often" approach allowed for rapid feedback and necessary adjustments, though it also contributed to the downfall of some startups over the years. As individuals, embracing failure and viewing it as a stepping stone to success is not always our natural response. Presentations at industry events on "lessons learned" vary in transparency, often influenced by differing definitions of failure, stakeholder sensitivities, and legal considerations. As a result, many of the hard knocks that paved the way for the industry's "wow" factors remain largely unknown. ATCE’s theme, “Powering the Future of Energy with a Century of Innovation,” honors the legacy of past breakthroughs while celebrating their ongoing role in shaping a resilient and sustainable future. Olivier Houzé will be named 2025 SPE President with the official passing of the baton from 2024 President Terry Palisch at ATCE. In this issue of JPT, Houzé shares his insights on the challenges facing our Society and its members in his inaugural vodcast and column, “A Roadmap for a Very Busy Year.” Visit the SPE Pavilion (Booth 1449) in the exhibition hall for a variety of SPE Pavilion Talks, including the JPT editors on Tuesday, 24 September, at 1:30 p.m. We’ll highlight the milestones of JPT’s coverage over 75 years and their significance for the future. Visit JPT to learn more about our commemorative features written to date about topics ranging from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, Azerbaijan, the HSE journey, data science, artificial lift, and a closer look at the past 25 years of innovations in fracturing, drilling, and reservoir engineering. New This Year at ATCE - Strategic Panels will offer a platform for panelists to discuss the current and future challenges and opportunities facing the energy industry. - As an SPE member, you get a complimentary pass to the exhibition hall. If you are not a member yet, you can join now. This pass does not include access to the technical program or conference proceedings. Learn more about the free access pass here. - Non-members registered at the full conference rate will receive a post-show email with a complimentary 1-year SPE membership offer. This offer is valid for new members only, and individuals must meet membership qualifications to join. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, ATCE offers an opportunity to connect, learn, and share. Here's to a century of ingenuity and three-quarters of a century of chronicling the journey!

Measuring Diabetic Medication Adherence and Factors That Lead to Non-adherence Among Patients in Erbil.

Introduction T2D is a chronic and progressive disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia resulting from inadequate insulin secretion or utilization. The global prevalence of T2D is increasing rapidly, posing a significant health burden in many regions. In the Kurdistan region of Iraq, T2D presents a significant health burden, exacerbated by socioeconomic changes, dietary shifts, and rising obesity rates. Poor adherence to antidiabetic medications is a major factor contributing to poor glycemic control, accelerating disease progression, and increasing complications. This study aims to assess medication adherence rates among adult T2D patients in Erbil using the Kurdish version of the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 (MMAS-8) and identify factors associated with non-adherence. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study at public and private clinics in Erbil City, Kurdistan, Iraq, between May 1 and September 30, 2023. A convenience sample of 300 adult Kurdish T2D patients, aged ≥ 25 years and on antidiabetic medications for three months or more, was recruited. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising sociodemographic characteristics, clinical and anthropometric measures, and medication adherence assessed by the Kurdish version of the MMAS-8. Statistical analysis included analysis of variance, Kruskal-Wallis, chi-square, and logistic regression models to identify factors associated with medication adherence. Results Of the 300 participants, 81 (27%) demonstrated high adherence, 98 (32.6%) moderate adherence, and 121 (40.3%) low adherence based on the MMAS-8. Low adherence was significantly associated with lower education (56/121, 46.3% vs. 13/81, 16.0%, p < 0.001), unemployment (73/121, 60.3% vs. 29/81, 35.8%, p = 0.008), rural residence (41/121, 33.9% vs. 10/81, 12.3%, p < 0.001), and lower income (62/121, 51.2% vs. 12/81, 14.8%, p < 0.001). High adherence was linked to better diabetes knowledge, home glucose monitoring, and exercise. High adherence was also associated with better glycemic control, with 76/81 (93.8%) of highly adherent patients achieving glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <7%, compared to 15/121 (12.4%) in the low adherence group (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified HbA1c, dyslipidemia, and home blood glucose monitoring as independent factors associated with high adherence. Conclusions This study highlights the substantial impact of socioeconomic, behavioral, and clinical factors on medication adherence among T2D patients in Erbil. Low adherence is associated with lower education, income, and awareness of diabetes management, while high adherence is linked to improved glycemic control and reduced complications. Targeted interventions addressing these factors are essential to enhance adherence and optimize T2D management in this population.

Comparative efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for mitigating pain and anxiety associated with venipuncture: a randomised controlled trial

BackgroundVenipuncture is one of the most commonly performed medical procedures in paediatric care, but it can also be one of the most painful and distressing experiences for patients. Finding effective...

Archaeological Excavations in Iraqi Kurdistan

Archaeological Excavations in Iraqi Kurdistan

Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Apolipoprotein B Gene Polymorphism in Kurdish Patients With Severe Hypercholesterolemia.

Background Polymorphisms in the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and apolipoprotein B 100 (APOB-100) genes have been linked to severe hypercholesterolemia in several populations. This study investigated the frequency of LDLR-Ava II and APOB-Xba I polymorphisms among Kurdish patients with severe hypercholesterolemia. Methodology We investigated LDLR-Ava II and APOB-Xba I gene polymorphisms in Kurdish patients attending the Duhok Specialized Laboratory Center in Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. We included a total of 80 subjects in this study, of which 40 (20 males and 20 females) had severe hypercholesterolemia, and 40 apparently healthy volunteers (21 males and 19 females) had normocholesterolemia, served as a control group. We used the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique to determine the polymorphisms of the LDLR-Ava II and APOB-Xba I genes. Results In those with severe hypercholesterolemia, the observed allele frequencies were AA LDLR-Ava II polymorphism (eight, 20%) followed by TT APOB-Xba I polymorphisms (six, 15%), whereas these frequencies were five (12.5%) and one (2.5%) in those with normocholesterolemia, respectively. The AA genotype group had considerably higher cholesterol and LDL-C levels compared with the GG genotype group. A similar pattern was observed when comparing the TT and CC genotype groups. Conclusions Our results showed a high frequency of AA LDLR-Ava II polymorphism in conjunction with TT APOB-Xba I polymorphism which may be strongly associated with hypercholesterolemia in the Kurdish population.

Evaluating the Stages of Environmental Pollution and Vital Indicators in the Qayyarah Refinery Area, Mosul, Iraq

Oil spills can have varying degrees of impact on the aquatic environment depending on factors such as the type of oil spilled, the volume released, and the ecosystem affected because crude oil and refined petroleum contain harmful substances such as hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals. When released into the water, these substances can have immediate and long-term effects on marine life. This research aims to find the factors affecting the degree of pollution from oil spills on the aquatic environment and the areas adjacent to the Qayyarah refinery in northern Iraq. Combines the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method and the analytical hierarchy process to evaluate the degree of pollution from oil spill incidents in the areas adjacent to the refinery. The statistical analysis showed that there were statistically significant differences and that the value of the correlation coefficient was positive between exchanged cadmium, residual cadmium, exchanged lead, where the lead exchange rate ranged correlation coefficient at a minimum R² 0.674 and a clear increase in the number of bacteria indicating contamination the total number of bacteria coli, fecal coliform bacteria, and fecal strep bacteria (where the numbers of coliform bacteria ranged 102 × 102- (cells/011 mL, and fecal coliform bacteria were between 160 × 102 cells/011 mL. These rates are environmental and vital indicators of the presence of significant levels of organic pollution and evidence of the presence of microorganisms dangerous to the health of residents and living organisms.

Spatiotemporal landscape pattern changes and their effects on land surface temperature in greenbelt with semi-arid climate: A case study of the Erbil City, Iraq

Urban expansion of cities has caused changes in land use and land cover (LULC) in addition to transformations in the spatial characteristics of landscape structure. These alterations have generated heat islands and rise of land surface temperature (LST), which consequently have caused a variety of environmental issues and threated the sustainable development of urban areas. Greenbelts are employed as an urban planning containment policy to regulate urban expansion, safeguard natural open spaces, and serve adaptation and mitigation functions. And they are regarded as a powerful measure for enhancing urban environmental sustainability. Despite the fact that, the relation between landscape structure change and variation of LST has been examined thoroughly in many studies, but there is a limitation concerning this relation in semi-arid climate and in greenbelts as well, with the lacking of comprehensive research combing both aspects. Accordingly, this study investigated the spatiotemporal changes of landscape pattern of LULC and their relationship with variation of LST within an inner greenbelt in the semi-arid Erbil City of northern Iraq. The study utilized remote sensing data to retrieve LST, classified LULC, and calculated landscape metrics for analyzing spatial changes during the study period. The results indicated that both composition and configuration of LULC had an impact on the variation of LST in the study area. The Pearson’s correlation showed the significant effect of Vegetation 1 type (VH), cultivated land (CU), and bare soil (BS) on LST, as increase of LST was related to the decrease of VH and the increases of CU and BS, while, neither Vegetation 2 type (VL) nor built-up (BU) had any effects. Additionally, the spatial distribution of LULC also exhibited significant effects on LST, as LST was strongly correlated with landscape indices for VH, CU, and BS. However, for BU, only aggregation index metric affected LST, while none of VL metrics had a relation. The study provides insights for landscape planners and policymakers to not only develop more green spaces in greenbelt but also optimize the spatial landscape patterns to reduce the influence of LST on the urban environment, and further promote sustainable development and enhance well-being in the cities with semi-arid climate.

One-Dimensional Electrical Resistivity Prospecting for Small Dam Projects: A case Study Smaquli Dam, East Erbil City, Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Abstract: This study employs the One-Dimensional Vertical Electrical Resistivity technique to elucidate the subsurface stratigraphy and structures beneath the axis and abutments of the suggested Smaquli dam, situated to the east of Erbil City in Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Three traverses were conducted using a Schlumberger array. Data interpretation was performed using the Russian commercial software, IPI2WIN. Each measurement point featured a maximum total electrode spread ranging from 400-600m, reaching an investigation depth of 130m to 150m. The inter-distance between successive measurement points varied from 16m to 17.5m. Geo-electrical sections were generated by interpreting the data, revealing three distinct lithological groups: alluvial deposits (upper first group) with a thickness ranging from 3 to 10 meters, marl and marly limestone of the Shiranish Formation (second group) with thickness ranging from 18 up to 110 meters, and dolomitic limestone of the Bekhme Formation (third group) which its thickness is not defined. These lithological groups exhibited significant resistivity contrasts, rendering the resistivity method effective for delineating their interfaces. The resistivity of the upper horizon ranged from 18 to 136 Ω·m, the second horizon exhibited values between 19 and 304 Ω·m, while the lower third horizon showed high resistivity values ranging from 97 to over 50000 Ω.m.. The relatively low resistivity values of the lower horizon (Bekhme Formation) are interpreted as fractured and water-saturated limestones, whereas the high values are indicative of bituminous material. A correlation was established between the geo-electrical sections and borehole geologic columns, demonstrating consistency in indicating the presence of two rock units within the uppermost 20m, which corresponds to the borehole depth.

The Impact of Video Games on Vocabulary Acquisition Among Young Learners in Kurdistan Region of Iraq

This study investigated the impact of video games on vocabulary acquisition among young learners of English as a second language in the Kurdistan region of Iraq-Erbil.The sample consisted of 74 male and female students, aged 12, who were studying English at a public school in the Kurdistan Region. The present study employed a quantitative, quasi-experimental design, where an experimental group received video game-based instruction, while a control group was taught using traditional methods. The results showed that the experimental group experienced an important development in their vocabulary test scores compared to the control group, indicating the effectiveness of video games in enhancing vocabulary acquisition. The study also found that the benefits of video game-based instruction were consistent across participants, regardless of their initial proficiency levels in English and information technology. Furthermore, the study revealed no significant differences in the vocabulary gains between male and female students. The findings suggest that incorporating video games into language learning curricula can be a valuable strategy to support the vocabulary development of young learners in the Kurdistan region. The study provides insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers regarding the integration of technology-based learning approaches in language education.

Dose Measurement and Cancer Risk from Natural Radioactivity in Cleaning Powders at Kurdistan Markets, Iraq

Abstract: The Kurdistan region of Iraq has seen a rise in the use of cleaning powders due to their favorable effects on health. However, various levels of radioactive isotopes, including 238U, 232Th, and 40K, can be found in the ore used to make some cleaning powders. Therefore, washing powder is regarded as one of the environmental sources of radionuclides and radioactivity. In this study, 25 samples of ordinary cleaning powder were analyzed to estimate the specific activities of 238U, 232Th, and 40K using a gamma-ray sodium iodide NaI(Tl) detector. The mean activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th, and 40K were found to be 0.27±0.027, 1.881±0.149, and 19.213±0.899 Bq.kg-1, respectively, which are well below the recommended values set by UNSCEAR 2000: 32, 45, and 400 Bq/kg for 238U, 232Th, and 40K, respectively. The radiological hazard parameters determined for each sample of detergent were also found to be lower than the maximum allowable values recommended by international organizations. Therefore, cleaning powders sold in the Kurdistan region markets pose no radioactive risk to users. Keywords: Cancer risk, NaI(Tl) detector, Detergent, Radioactivity, Primordial radionuclide.

Prevalence and molecular identification of hypodermosis from slaughtered cattle in Sulaymaniyah province, Iraq.

Hypodermosis is a subcutaneous infestation in cattle that is caused by larvae of Hypoderma spp. and it is an economically important disease in the cattle industry. This study aimed to find the prevalence rate of hypodermosis and identify variations in the COX1 gene among isolates present in Sulaymaniyah, in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. The study was conducted in a Sulaymaniyah slaughterhouse from March to July 2021. The carcasses of 867 cattle were carefully checked before and after skinning them to record the presence of boils containing the larvae of Hypoderma spp. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) using TaqI enzyme, and sequencing of the COX1 gene were used for diagnosis and molecular characterization of Hypoderma spp. The rate of infestation with Hypoderma bovis was 1.61% and the highest rate (3.57%) was detected in April. The disease was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in local breeds at 2.79%. PCR-RFLP confirmed that all recorded species were H. bovis. The result was further confirmed by Sanger sequencing of the COX1 gene of the isolated species. Comparison of the sequences of the conserved COX1 gene of the parasite led to identification of six different haplotypes in the research area. Two of the haplotypes were previously recorded internationally, while four new haplotypes associated with four novel mutations were recorded for the first time in the study region. Based on these results we can conclude that H. bovis is a widespread species in the research region.

Accessibility to Urban Parks by disablers: A Case Study on a Main Park in Erbil

Quite a large number of Iraqi – Iran war victims as well as casualties of Kurdish revolution since 1961 now making a noticeable ratio of the disablers population in Kurdistan of Iraq. In fact, recent uprising also did contribute in raising the number of the injured and handicaps within Kurdish community. Actually, all these people almost got no easy way for participating in entertainment within this park, or any similar parks in Erbil (Hawler). All these are because of lack of suitable road and even special gates within such parks. In fact, even babies and nurseries are in need to such gate and ways that is absent so far. A review of the actual design and pointing out the stages of establishing points in this respect will be the goal of the present study for such and other parks in the region in order to reduce the existing gaps in designing, planning and in constitution of any parks. Present study is concentrating on the effect on disablers, the psychological and physical effects on crippled individuals, and the effects on disability institutions. Sami Abdulrahman Park is one of Erbil's largest parks, present study's primary goal is to build a system that addresses issues with disabled people's access to these parks. According to studies, the existence of inaccessibility is routed, and cities are referred to eliminate it; design measures with interior locations are then used to suggest presenting options. Using sketches, photos, and interviews, researchers record the park's landscape design sites—entrances, streets, pedestrian crossings, parking lots, ramps, urban furniture, etc.

Biostratigraphy of the Late Oligocene-Early Miocene Anah and Bajwan Formations at Selected Sections of Northern Iraq

The Late Oligocene-Early Miocene including Anah and Bajwan formations have been studied in selected areas of Sulamaniyah (Aj-Dagh and Basara sections) and Kirkuk governorate within Bai Hassan Oilfield (BH-3 and BH-4), which is located within the Western Zagros Fold Thrust Belt, Northern, and Northeastern Iraq. The palaeontological investigations mainly depended on benthonic foraminifera of the studied sections of Aj-Dagh and Basara, as well as the studied wells of Bai Hassan OilField (BH-3, and BH-4) of Anah and Bajwan formations, twenty-four species belonging to fourteen genera recognized of benthonic foraminifera, with five index fossils determining the age of the formations as Late Oligocene-Early Miocene, which have been recognized through this study, especially benthonic foraminiferal, indicating four zones as Praerhapydionina delicata range zone, Austrotrillina howchini-Peneroplis evolutus zone, Concurrent range, and Miogypsinoides complanate-Lepidocyclina (Nephrolepidina) sp. Concurrent zone.

The Paleogene Carbonate Banks of the Zagros Foreland Basin’s Forebulge, Northern Iraq: Stratigraphic Architectures and Facies Associations

The Paleogene sequence of the Zagros foreland basin of NE Arabiais punctuated by a linear chain of carbonate bank-ramp associations. These carbonate banks had developed over the NW-SE trending basin forebulge. Continued convergence and compressional tectonics of the basin made the forebulge become incipient and shallow enough to commence carbonate sedimentation. The porpose of this work is to investigate the origin, facies and regional stratigraphic relations of these carbonates to the forebulge and other basin depozones. Stratigraphic data of this research are collected from (15), measured outcrop sections distributed over the basin forebulge zone and surroundings. In addition, re-examination and reinterpretation of (30) previously studied surface and subsurface sections are compiled into the study. This done to integrate the regional facies distribution and basin-wide sequence stratigraphic architecture. Stratigraphic investigations include lithostratigraphic logging and correlation, microfacies analysis, and facies modeling. Four major banks were recognized, three of these banks (informally named: Dohuk, Kirkuk, and Sulaimaniyah) were developed over the forebulge zone. The other one (Sinjar bank) of the Sinjar area, is related to basininversion mechanism. The forebulge carbonate banks were developed as the reefal limestone of the Sinjar Formation, and the lagoonal carbonate and shale of the Khurmala Formation. The Sinjar Formation is dominated by coralgal reef and foraminiferal-shoals with facies spectrum forming the basic body of the bank. The ramp setting was developed on both sides of the bank. The bank limestone represents the inner ramp facies, whilea windward ramp is developed as foraminiferal bioclastic limestone fingers into the back-bulge basinal marlstone of the Aaliji Formation. A leeward ramp facies was developed into the foredeep depozone, with bioclastic carbonate intercalations that characterize the upper part of the Kolosh Formation. At a later stage of basin shoaling (Early Eocene), a carbonate back-bank lagoon was developed over the foredeep area. It became gradually, isolated at certain parts of the basin, and finally replaced by the dolostone of the Khurmala Formation.

Screening for Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension in Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Objective: To determine the prevalence and significant correlates of prediabetes (pre-DM), diabetes mellitus (DM), prehypertension (pre-HT), and hypertension (HT) among adults in all districts of Duhok Governorate through a community-based screening study. Methods: This is a cross-sectional community-based screening study involving 3,000 non-fasting adults not diagnosed as prediabetes or DM and prehypertension or HT conducted in all districts of Duhok Governorate. Random glucose and blood pressure reading according to American Diabetes Association and American Heart Association Guidelines in 2023 will be used in a community-based screening. BMI will be also calculated in the present study as a screening tool. Results: Findings reveal that 18.2% had DM, 14.7% had pre-DM and 41.3% had HT and 11.5% had pre-HT. The study also revealed that nearly two third had increased BMI in which 40.1% were overweight and 24.5% were obese. Among screened subjects 32% were smokers. Around half of screened subjects reported having family history of DM and HT, DM alone (10.8%), HT alone (12.1%) and 28.9% had family history of both DM and HT together. The study also shows that screened male subjects reported higher prevalence of pre-DM, DM, pre-HT and HT than screened female subjects. Older age group of screened subjects tend to have more abnormal blood sugar and blood pressure levels than younger age group. Conclusion: This study has shown a high prevalence of pre-DM, DM, pre-HT and HT among adults in all districts of Duhok Governorate. Significant correlates of pre-DM, DM, pre-HT and HT in this study were age, gender, BMI, smoking and family history.

Coalition Army humanitarian assistance for the refugees from South Kurdistan on the Turkish border in 1991.

This study illustrates the amount and significant types of humanitarian assistance, which provided by the coalition forces to the displaced people from South Kurdistan on the Turkish-Iraqi border in 1991. The coalition forces arrived directly to help displaced people because they were around in the area. However, they provided the most necessary emergency supplies because they were capable to deliver hundreds of tons of humanitarian aid and basic necessities of life. Since they had the necessary equipment to carry out emergency supplies to distribute to displaced people in the Turkish-Iraqi border, especially dropping such emergency supplies by plane. The confirmation and adopted of Resolution 688 by the United Nations Security Council led to receive influx of humanitarian aid to the displaced people. The Western countries with the help of US, after confirmed the Resolution 688, played a major role in the making of no-fly zones above latitude (36) in the north ,and the making a peace zone (Safe haven,)in parts of Iraqi Kurdistan. Therefore, the coalition forces could easily deliver this humanitarian aid assistance to people in need and protect them from the repression of the Iraqi government. Later, the coalition forces built several (temporary) settlement camps near the city of Zakho in order to return the displaced people to the peace zone area. They provided humanitarian needs such as food, water and health for the displaced people in the center of these camps. Moreover, they rebuilt many service facilities along the ceasefire zone, saving thousands of lives and returning refugees to their homes.

Characteristics of Total solar energy in Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

This study analyzes, the characteristics of solar energy in the Kurdistan Region, solar energy is considered one of the most important elements of climate, Because the increase and decrease of this important species affect all other species, the reason for choosing this study is due to the importance of this topic that has not been properly worked on in the field of climate geography in Kurdistan. To reach an accurate result, the researcher took (10) weather stations in different areas of the study area such as (Amedi, Haji Omeran, Halsho, Mosul, Soran, Erbil, Kirkuk, Sulaimani, Halabja, and Kalar), In this study, the analytical method was used, the researcher reached several important conclusions that include the suitability of the study area to rely on this energy, Because, the annual value of solar energy reaching the roof of the Atmosphere at the level of the study area reaches (29.68) megajoules/m2/day. The average total solar energy reached the level in the study area reaches (15.85) megajoules/m2/day. To a large extent, the amount of total solar energy available varies from year to year It contains stability. On the other hand, the results of the classification of total solar energy in the study area, showed that in (52.12) days more than (15) megajoules / m2 / day.

A Comparative Study of English and Translated Kurdish Business Contracts from lexical and Syntactic Perspectives

In Kurdish, legal translation as a non-literary translation has received little attention in the field of translation studies. One genre of legal translation that is specifically under-studied is business contracts. This paper analyses and compares features of English and Kurdish business contracts from lexical and syntactic perspectives. It also addresses the issue of LSP lexical and syntactic precision used in the translated Kurdish contracts by translators. To this end, the paper attempts to identify the translation procedures and norms that manifest in translating business contracts from Kurdish into English. As a result, it scrutinizes a set of 20 Kurdish-English business contracts translated by professional licensed translators using Toury’s (2012) three-phase methodology. The translation direction is from Kurdish into English because it is the most practised direction by the translation service providers in Iraqi Kurdistan. The study demonstrates that both Kurdish and English legal languages use similar syntactic and lexical tools in drafting business contracts. It also reveals that initial norms, preliminary norms, and the law of interference are shown in the Kurdish- English translations. It further discloses that transposition, amplification, and couplets are prominently employed to deal with translation challenges. This paper is significant because it is the first attempt to scientifically investigate semantic features of originally written as well as translated Kurdish business contracts. For further research, it recommends a further focus on differences in legal systems and languages between Kurdish and English