Science Journal of University of Zakho
type: channel
publisher: University of Zakho
language: en
publication name: Science Journal of University of Zakho
issn: 2663-628X
copyright: Authors who publish with this journal agree to the following terms: Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License [CC BY-NC-SA 4.0] that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgment of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal. Authors are able to enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal's published version of the work, with an acknowledgment of its initial publication in this journal. Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online.
items: EFFECTS OF DIETARY PHYTASE AND ORGANIC ACIDS ON NUTRIENT UTILIZATION AND ANTIOXIDANT STATUS IN Clarias gariepinus
items: ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FATE OF SILVER NANOPARTICLES IN SOIL AND IN THE WATER ECOSYSTEM: A REVIEW
items: OPTIMIZATION OF WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM USING SIMPLEX ALGORITHM ON MICROSOFT EXCEL
items: ASSOCIATION OF EDN1 rs10478694 POLYMORPHISM AND SERUM LEVELS OF ET-1 WITH CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN THE DUHOK POPULATION
items: Effect of reduced folate carrier gene polymorphism (G80A) on the methotrexate level in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and it’s relation to the disease activity
items: EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LIGHT TYPES AND EXPOSURE DURATIONS ON STOMATAL CHARACTERISTICS IN TWO CULTIVARS OF CARNATION (Dianthus caryophyllus L.)
items: IMPACT OF VARYING AMOUNTS OF PEANUT (Arachis hypogaea) MEAL ON RAINBOW TROUT (Oncorhynchus mykiss) DIETS INSTEAD OF SOYBEAN MEAL ON THE ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION AND BIOMAGNIFICATION FACTORS IN FILLETS
items: HONEY BEE FORAGERS AND SOME BEE PRODUCTS AS POTENTIAL BIOINDICATORS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION WITH HEAVY METALS
items: ENHANCING GROWTH PERFORMANCE, ANTIOXIDANT DEFENSE, AND IMMUNE RESPONSE IN STRIPED CATFISH (Pangasius hypophthalmus) THROUGH DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH Aloe vera: A SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE APPROACH
items: FACE DETECTION USING REFINED-RETINAFACE MODEL
items: EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS FOLIAR APPLICATION OF HUMIC ACID IN ENHANCING GROWTH AND YIELD OF SUGARCANE (Saccharum officinarum L.) VARIETIE
items: PREVALENCE AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF BLATEM, BLASHV AND BLACTX-M GENES IN ESBL-PRODUCING Escherichia coli AND Klebsiella pneumoniae ISOLATED FROM INTENSIVE CARE UNIT PATIENTS
items: POLLEN MICROMORPHOLOGY OF FOUR Onobrychis SPECIES (Fabaceae) FROM THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
items: DIETARY TURMERIC (Curcuma longa) ENHANCES GROWTH, ANTIOXIDANT DEFENSE, AND IMMUNITY IN Cirrhinus mrigala
items: ASSOCIATION OF INTERLEUKIN-6, INTERLEUKIN-4, AND TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR-ALPHA GENE POLYMORPHISMS WITH SERUM CYTOKINE PROFILES IN BETA-THALASSEMIA MAJOR PATIENTS
items: PREVALENCE OF Theileria annulata AND THE FIRST REPORT OF Theileria sinensis IN CATTLE FROM ERBIL PROVINCE, IRAQ
items: ENHANCING NONLINEAR EQUATION SOLUTIONS THROUGH THE COMBINATION OF VARIANT NEWTON’S AND HALLEY’S METHODS
items: GREEN-SYNTHESIZED ZINC OXIDE NANOPARTICLES FROM VERJUICE (Vitis vinifera) EXHIBIT HEPATOPROTECTIVE AND ANTIOXIDANT EFFECTS AGAINST CARBON TETRACHLORIDE -INDUCED TOXICITY IN MALE RATS
items: AN EXPLAINABLE DEEP LEARNING FRAMEWORK FOR BREAST CANCER CLASSIFICATION USING EFFICIENTNETV2B0 AND GRAD-CAM
items: FORMULATION AND OPTIMIZATION OF DOMPERIDONE-LOADED LIQUID SNEDDS: CHARACTERIZATION AND IN-VITRO EVALUATION
items: EFFECT OF SLC19A1 GENE POLYMORPHISM AND HAPLOTYPES ON IDIOPATHIC RECURRENT PREGNANCY LOSS AMONG WOMEN IN DUHOK CITY
items: A PRUNED VGG16 WITH HYBRID PREPROCESSING AND DATA BALANCING FOR ROBUST AND INTERPRETABLE LUNG CANCER CLASSIFICATION
items: NUMERICAL SOLUTION OF CUBIC-QUINTIC NONLINEAR SCHRÖDINGER EQUATION
items: ASSESSMENT OF SOME HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATION IN WINTER WHEAT CROP (Triticum aestivum l.) GROWN IN SOIL AROUND INDUSTRIAL AREA WITHIN DUHOK CITY, KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
items: IMPACT OF VITAMIN D STATUS, IRON PROFILES, AND TRACE ELEMENTS IMBALANCES ON CARDIOMETABOLIC RISK FACTORS IN WOMEN WITH SUBCLINICAL HYPOTHYROIDISM
items: DIAMETER INCREMENT ESTIMATIONS OF Pinus brutia Ten. FORESTS STAND OF DUHOK GOVERNORATE, KURDISTAN REGION, IRAQ
items: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF IMMUNOLOGICAL CHANGES LINKED TO ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE USE IN MALE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
items: IRRIGATION WATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT USING CROSS IN DUHOK GOVERNORATE, KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
items: EVALUATION OF OXIDATIVE STRESS, ANTIOXIDANT DEFENSES, AND BIOCHEMICAL DYSREGULATION IN OBESE VS. NON-OBESE ADULT MALES
items: MULTI-CLASSIFICATION OF EYE DISEASES USING A CNN-HARALICK HYBRID FRAMEWORK

EFFECTS OF DIETARY PHYTASE AND ORGANIC ACIDS ON NUTRIENT UTILIZATION AND ANTIOXIDANT STATUS IN Clarias gariepinus
type: item
description: The present study was conducted to examine the effect of phytase and organic acids (OA) on growth parameters such as final body weight(g), weight gain (%) Specific growth rate (%/day), FCR, Survival (%), nutrient digestibility, body composition, and oxidative stress biomarkers in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). The six dietary treatments for 60 days were designed: control (0% OA, 0 phytase), 2% OA, 4% OA, 0% OA + phytase, 2% OA + phytase, and 4% OA + phytase, each with three replicates. The significant (p < 0.05) results were found on the inclusion of phytase and OA on growth and nutrient utilization. The highest final body weight (7.4 ± 0.3 g), weight gain (460.6 ± 31%), specific growth rate (3.3 ± 0.3%/day), and the lowest feed conversion ratio (1.5 ± 0.2) were found in the 2% OA + phytase group. Apparent digestibility coefficients for dry matter, protein, and phosphorus were maximized at 46.7 ± 1.3%, 77.2 ± 1.4%, and 48.0 ± 1.4%, respectively (p = 0.007), while fecal phosphorus significantly decreased (0.8 ± 0.04 g/kg). Vertebral phosphorus and calcium contents were enhanced significantly (p < 0.05) in the combined supplement group. Oxidative stress markers revealed lower ROS (66.5 ± 1.8), SOD (144 ± 2.6 U/mL), and MDA (5.25 ± 0.14 nmol/mg) levels in the 2% OA + phytase group, indicating enhanced antioxidant defense (p = 0.005). These outcomes indicate that 2 OA inclusion with phytase improves growth, nutrient digestibility, mineral retention, and antioxidant balance in C. gariepinus
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Clarias gariepinus
  topic: keywords
subject: Phosphorus Digestibility
  topic: keywords
subject: Nutrient digestibility
  topic: keywords
subject: Antioxidant Response
  topic: keywords
subject: Fish nutrition
  topic: subjects
subject: aquaculture
  topic: disciplines
creator: Asma Batool
creator: Neelam Arshad
creator: Ayesha Shahid
creator: Ali Hassan
creator: Bisma Younas
creator: Kainat Shabbir
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Asma Batool; Neelam Arshad; Ayesha Shahid, Ali Hassan, Bisma Younas, Kainat Shabbir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-01-06
publication date: 2026-01-06
starting page: 24
ending page: 32
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1825

ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FATE OF SILVER NANOPARTICLES IN SOIL AND IN THE WATER ECOSYSTEM: A REVIEW
type: item
description: Silver nanoparticles, which are appreciated due to their increased antibacterial, catalytic and conductive functions, are commonly employed in medical kits, cloths, cosmetics, and water filters, but their release through wastewater, biosolids, and runoff is highly dangerous as there is no regulation of their emission and transformation, such as sulfidation, aggregation, and dissolution. In soil ecosystems, AgNPs react with pH, redox conditions, organic matter, and clay, and sulfidation to Ag2S causes short-term bioavailability to decrease but increases persistence; they disrupt microbial communities, inhibit nitrogen-fixing bacteria (e.g., Rhizobium), mycorrhizal fungi, and enzyme activities, decrease soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and plant-microbe symbiosis and cause oxidative stress in earthworms. Aquatic systems facilitate AgNP disaggregation, sedimentation, and ion release driven by organic matter and ions and cause toxicity at all trophic levels: algae experience the inhibition of photosynthesis and ROS damage, zooplankton feeding problems, and fish experience bioaccumulation, neurotoxicity and reproductive problems. Ag+ ion release leading to protein/DNA damage, Oxidative stress due to ROS, membrane peroxidation, quorum sensing disruption and systemic changes in stress, detoxification and metabolism pathways confirmed by omics is a subset of the toxicity mechanisms. Though the water body information is plentiful, soil research is still very limited; gaps still exist in long-term low dose field effects and co-contamination. The research in the future recommends mesocosm/field testing, model dynamic transformation, and the safer design of nanoparticles to guide the risk analysis and sustainable management
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Silver nanoparticles
  topic: keywords
subject: Environmental fate
  topic: keywords
subject: Ecotoxicology
  topic: keywords
subject: Aquatic ecosystems
  topic: keywords
subject: Soil ecosystems
  topic: keywords
subject: water ecology
  topic: subjects
subject: Biological Sciences
  topic: disciplines
creator: Asma Umer
creator: Basim. Al Sulivany
creator: Muhammad Jamshed
creator: Riffat Yasin
creator: maqbool ahmad
creator: Inayet Ullah malik
creator: Muhammad Tauqeer
creator: Muhammad Shoaib Akhtar
creator: Muhammad Tauhidi
creator: Muhammad Owais
creator: Khizar Samiullah
creator: Rana Mehroz Fazal
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Asma Umer, Basim. S. A. Al Sulivany, Riffat Yasin, Muhammad Jamshed, Maqbool Ahmad, Inayat Ullah Malik, Muhammad Tauqeer Riaz, Muhammad Shoaib Akhtar, Muhammad Luqman Tauhid, Muhammad Owais, Khizar Samiullah, Rana Mehroz Fazal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-01-07
publication date: 2026-01-07
starting page: 33
ending page: 42
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1838

OPTIMIZATION OF WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM USING SIMPLEX ALGORITHM ON MICROSOFT EXCEL
type: item
description: This study applies the Simplex linear programming (LP) algorithm—implemented using Microsoft Excel Solver to optimize a simulated water distribution system (WDS) through an accessible and fully reproducible spreadsheet workflow. The model represents a hypothetical urban network of 3,650 buildings arranged in a 10 × 10 grid (100 junctions, 180 pipes), and seeks to minimize installation and operational costs while satisfying hydraulic and design constraints. Hydraulic behavior was computed using the Hazen–Williams equation (C = 150), with optimization performed in Excel Solver’s Simplex LP engine and independently cross-validated using the HiGHS optimizer in Python. The optimized configuration, consisting of a 15 m reservoir elevation and 150 mm pipe diameter, reduced the total system cost from USD 375,000 in the baseline design to USD 195,000, achieving a 48% improvement while maintaining acceptable head-loss (5.59 m ≤ 20 m) and velocity (0.85 m/s within the 0.3–2.5 m/s recommended range). Although the model is limited to steady-state hydraulics, uniform pipe diameters, and simplified friction assumptions, its transparency, low computational requirements, and ease of implementation make it well suited for academic instruction, rapid preliminary design, and resource-constrained municipal environments. Sensitivity analysis (±10–15% demand; ±10% Hazen–Williams roughness coefficient C) indicates that the optimal design is robust under moderate parameter uncertainty. Future research will integrate EPANET for nonlinear hydraulic verification and extend the approach to larger networks and multi-objective optimization.
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Simplex Algorithm
  topic: keywords
subject: Microsoft Excel Solver
  topic: keywords
subject: Linear Programming in Hydraulic Modeling
  topic: keywords
subject: Water Distribution System
  topic: keywords
subject: Cost Optimization
  topic: keywords
subject: Operation Research
  topic: subjects
subject: Hydraulic Engineering
  topic: subjects
subject: Linear Programming
  topic: subjects
subject: Computer Science
  topic: disciplines
subject: Civil Engineering
  topic: disciplines
creator: Stephen Ebuka Iheagwara
creator: Ndubisi D. Ayebamieprete
creator: Eniola Precious Apalowo
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Stephen E. Iheagwara, Ndubisi D. Ayebamieprete, Eniola P. Apalowo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-01-07
publication date: 2026-01-07
starting page: 16
ending page: 23
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1784

ASSOCIATION OF EDN1 rs10478694 POLYMORPHISM AND SERUM LEVELS OF ET-1 WITH CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN THE DUHOK POPULATION
type: item
description: This study investigated the association of the Endothelin-1 (EDN1) rs10478694 polymorphism and serum ET-1 levels with coronary artery disease (CAD) and hypertension in the Duhok Province population. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent a significant global health burden, and understanding their genetic predispositions is critical for targeted interventions. The endothelin system, particularly ET-1, is integral in vascular tone regulation and frequently implicated in various cardiovascular conditions. We conducted a case-control study involving 202 individuals, categorized into control, CAD, hypertension, and combined CAD/hypertension groups. Genotyping for EDN1 rs10478694 was performed via PCR-RFLP, and serum ET-1 levels were quantified by ELISA. Our findings revealed statistically significant associations: the 'rr' genotype and 'r' allele exhibited higher prevalence in all patient groups compared to controls (CAD: genotype p=0.021, allele p=0.022; Hypertension: genotype p=0.022, allele p=0.015; CAD with Hypertension: genotype p=0.021, allele p=0.012). This outcome suggests an elevated genetic susceptibility associated with the 'r' allele. Furthermore, a weak positive correlation between the 'r' allele/rr genotype and serum ET-1 levels substantiated a plausible biological mechanism affecting ET-1 expression and subsequent CVD risk. These results significantly enhance our understanding of CVD genetic architecture in this distinct population, thereby facilitating improved risk stratification and personalized prevention strategies.
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Endothelin 1rs10478694 polymorphism
  topic: keywords
subject: Coronary Artery Disease
  topic: keywords
subject: Hypertension
  topic: keywords
subject: Biology
  topic: subjects
subject: Genetic
  topic: disciplines
creator: Omer Akram
creator: Awat Abbas
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Omer A Mohammed Ameen and Awat Mustafa Abbas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
date: 2026-01-09
publication date: 2026-01-09
starting page: 52
ending page: 59
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1754

Effect of reduced folate carrier gene polymorphism (G80A) on the methotrexate level in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and it’s relation to the disease activity
type: item
description: Methotrexate (MTX) is the primary conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (csDMARD) used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Interindividual variability in its efficacy and toxicity has been partially attributed to genetic polymorphisms affecting folate metabolism and transport. The reduced folate carrier-1 (RFC1), encoded by the SLC19A1 gene, is a key transporter responsible for MTX cellular uptake. The RFC1 G80A (rs1051266) polymorphism may alter transporter function, influencing MTX plasma levels and therapeutic outcomes. This study attempted to evaluate the impact of RFC1 G80A polymorphism on MTX plasma concentration and its association with the activity of RA disease. This cross-sectional study was carried out at the Rheumatology Center in Duhok, Iraq, from September 2024 to June 2025. Ninety RA patients receiving oral MTX therapy were recruited. MTX levels were quantified by ELISA, and genotyping of the RFC1 G80A polymorphism was performed by PCR-RFLP. Statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate genotype associations with MTX levels, DAS-28 activity score, and laboratory parameters. The study cohort (mean age: 50.1 ± 11.9 years) was predominantly female (91.1%). Genotype frequencies were GG (53.3%), GA (35.6%), and AA (11.1%). Although MTX levels were numerically highest in AA individuals (330.1 ± 70.5 ng/mL), the difference was not significant in statistical terms (p=0.82). However, AA carriers had significantly higher DAS-28 scores (4.3 ± 1.5) than GG carriers (3.8 ± 1.2; p=0.009), suggesting poorer disease control. No substantial variation has been noticed in inflammatory or hematological parameters between genotype groups. The RFC1 G80A polymorphism may influence MTX pharmacokinetics and RA disease activity. The AA genotype appears to be associated with non-significantly higher MTX levels and worse disease control. Pharmacogenetic profiling could help optimize MTX therapy in RA.
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Reduced folate carrier
  topic: keywords
subject: RFC1
  topic: keywords
subject: G80A polymorphism
  topic: keywords
subject: Rheumatoid arthritis
  topic: keywords
subject: Methotrexate
  topic: keywords
subject: Pharmacogenomics
  topic: keywords
subject: Rheumatology
  topic: subjects
subject: molecular genetics
  topic: subjects
subject: Biomedical sciences
  topic: disciplines
subject: genetics
  topic: disciplines
subject: drug metabolism
  topic: disciplines
subject: genetic polymorphism
  topic: disciplines
creator: Rozheen Jaafar
creator: Adil Eissa
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Rozheen Ghiath Jaafar and Adil Abozaid Eissa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
date: 2026-01-13
publication date: 2026-01-13
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1700

EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LIGHT TYPES AND EXPOSURE DURATIONS ON STOMATAL CHARACTERISTICS IN TWO CULTIVARS OF CARNATION (Dianthus caryophyllus L.)
type: item
description: A study was conducted to examine the effects of different light types, colors, and exposure durations on the morphological and stomatal characteristics of two carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) cultivars, Ormea and Moonlight, cultivated under controlled greenhouse conditions, during the period of (2024 - 2025) at the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Duhok, to understanding how Light quality and photoperiod play a crucial role in regulating stomatal density, size, and function, which are vital for key physiological processes such as transpiration and photosynthesis. The results indicate that specific light treatments significantly influence both morphological traits and stomatal parameters. The highest leaf number, leaf length, and leaf area per plant, were measured under 14-hour incandescent lighting (42.872 leaves/plant, 13.050 cm, and 25.801 cm2), respectively, followed by 14h LED-mix (39.37leaves/plant, 12.020 cm and 24.218cm2), respectively. Similarly, the longest leaf observed on the Ormea cultivar (12.336 cm) when exposed to 14 hours of incandescent light significantly outperformed other treatments. While the results of the interaction between cultivar and light on stomatal density and number showed that the Moonlight cultivar could achieve higher stomatal densities and stomatal numbers when exposed to 14 hours of incandescent. On the other hand, the Ormea and Moonlight cultivars showed the highest significant increase in stomatal densities (96.482 and 95.587) in the lower epidermis when exposed to 14 hours of incandescent lights. In the Ormea cultivar, growing under incandescent light for 14h caused a notable increase in both stomatal length and width (24.978 and 13.389 µm), followed by stomatal length and width (24.533 and 13.067 µm), respectively, under LED-mix for 14h
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Carnation plant
  topic: keywords
subject: Supplementary lighting
  topic: keywords
subject: leaf parameters
  topic: keywords
subject: and stomatal characteristics
  topic: keywords
subject: Research paper
  topic: subjects
subject: Ornamental plant
  topic: disciplines
creator: Layla Mohammed
creator: Nashwan Yousif Edo
creator: Sajid Ali
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Layla Shaaban Mohammed, Nashwan Yousif Edo, Sajid Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-02
publication date: 2025-10-02
starting page: 489
ending page: 498
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1609

IMPACT OF VARYING AMOUNTS OF PEANUT (Arachis hypogaea) MEAL ON RAINBOW TROUT (Oncorhynchus mykiss) DIETS INSTEAD OF SOYBEAN MEAL ON THE ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION AND BIOMAGNIFICATION FACTORS IN FILLETS
type: item
description: In this study, the effects of using different ratios of peanut meal (PNM) instead of soybean meal in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) diet on elemental composition and biomagnification factor (BMF) were evaluated for 12 weeks. Three experimental diets containing 50% (PNM50), 75% (PNM75), and 100% (PNM100) peanut meal were prepared. In the study, two control groups were fed a commercial feed (CF) and a diet containing 0% PNM (C), respectively. The CF had the greatest Ca/P ratio and the highest Se, Ca, and P levels, and these values were also significantly different from the other experimental diets. The PNM75 diet had significantly higher Mn and Cu values (p<0.05). Fe, Mg, and Na levels increased with the increasing level of PNM ratios. The PNM100 group had the highest values of these elements. At the end of the study, the CF group had high BMF of K, Mg, Mn, and Cu elements. Compared with the C group, rainbow trout fillets in the CF group had high BMFs of Ca, Fe, Na, and Se. The BMF of the P element was high in PNM75 group. In summary, the element values of rainbow trout fillets did not have an adverse effect when using PNM instead of soybean meal in their diets
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Biomagnification factor
  topic: keywords
subject: element composition
  topic: keywords
subject: Oncorhynchus mykiss
  topic: keywords
subject: peanut meal
  topic: keywords
subject: aquaculture
  topic: subjects
subject: aquaculture
  topic: disciplines
creator: DİLARA KAYA ÖZTÜRK
creator: İsmhan KARAYÜCEL
creator: Seval DERNEKBAŞI
creator: Keriman YÜRÜTEN ÖZDEMİR
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Dilara Kaya Öztürk, İsmihan Karayücel, Seval Dernekbaşi, Keriman yürüten özdemir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-01
publication date: 2025-10-01
starting page: 471
ending page: 478
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1598

HONEY BEE FORAGERS AND SOME BEE PRODUCTS AS POTENTIAL BIOINDICATORS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION WITH HEAVY METALS
type: item
description: Heavy metals are persistent pollutants traveling through the environment-from their industrial source into the atmosphere, soil, and water-and finally into the food chain. They pose the greatest danger to human and animals. Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are good bioindicators of environmental pollution because they accumulate heavy metals in their bodies and products, although showing no immediate effect. Bee-related samples (foragers, honey, and pollen) collected from five sites in Duhok Province in May 2025 were investigated. The assessment confirmed the presence of lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), and chromium (Cr) in varying concentrations. Pb levels varied between 0.0003 and 0.0024 mg/kg, while the greatest amount of Pb was detected in pollen. One pollen sample contained Zn levels as high as 20.365 mg/kg. Cu levels fluctuated but didn’t show significantly either across locations or sample types. Cr levels were determined to be within WHO-recommended levels, while traces of Cd and Fe were well below the safety limits. Some pollen and honey samples from L2 and L3 showed higher amounts than safety standards, but most were below the limits. The results indicate that pollen and honey are more prone to metal accumulation, confirming contamination at a much lower level
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Honeybees
  topic: keywords
subject: Bioindicators
  topic: keywords
subject: Heavy Metals
  topic: keywords
subject: Environmental Contamination
  topic: keywords
subject: Ecosystem Health
  topic: keywords
subject: entomology
  topic: subjects
subject: Ecology
  topic: subjects
subject: Ecology and Pollution
  topic: disciplines
creator: Nora Mohammed
creator: Zahra Naeef Ayoub
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Nora Mohammed Salih, Zahra Naeef Ayoub https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-12
publication date: 2025-10-12
starting page: 638
ending page: 643
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1718

ENHANCING GROWTH PERFORMANCE, ANTIOXIDANT DEFENSE, AND IMMUNE RESPONSE IN STRIPED CATFISH (Pangasius hypophthalmus) THROUGH DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION WITH Aloe vera: A SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE APPROACH
type: item
description: A 60-day feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary Aloe vera leaf powder supplementation on growth performance, hematological parameters, antioxidant status, and immune responses in Pangasius hypophthalmus. A total of 300 juvenile striped catfish with an initial weight of 14.2±0.13 g was randomly allocated to five dietary treatments containing 0% (control), 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4% Aloe vera leaf powder, with three replicates per group. Results reveal significant dose-dependent enhancements in growth parameters, with the 2% Aloe vera group exhibiting the highest final weight 72.21±1.54 g, weight gain 371.1±4.5%, and specific growth rate (3.21 ± 0.03%/day), alongside the lowest feed conversion ratio (1.54 ± 0.01) (p<0.05). Hematological analysis revealed enhanced red blood cell count (2.32±0.06 ×10⁶/μL), hemoglobin levels (9.0±0.3 g/dL), and white blood cell count (66.5±2.1 ×10³/μL) in the 2% group. Antioxidant enzyme activities (Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), and Glutathione peroxidase (GPx)) increased by 52.1%, 36.2%, and 27.8%, respectively, while malondialdehyde levels decreased by 31.8% related to the (control; p<0.05). Immune parameters were also significantly elevated, including lysozyme activity (14.3±0.5 U/mL) and phagocytic index (33.87±1.3%). These findings indicate that 2% Aloe vera supplementation optimally enhances growth, physiological resilience, and disease resistance in P. hypophthalmus, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic additives in aquaculture
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Pangasius hypophthalmus
  topic: keywords
subject: Aloe vera
  topic: keywords
subject: growth performance
  topic: keywords
subject: antioxidant activity
  topic: keywords
subject: immune response
  topic: keywords
subject: Fish nutrition
  topic: subjects
subject: Fish Nutrition
  topic: disciplines
subject: Fisheries
  topic: disciplines
creator: Rana Mehroz Fazal
creator: Arooj Fatima
creator: Basim. S. A. Al Sulivany
creator: Rashid Hussain
creator: Ali Hassan
creator: Ayesha Shahid
creator: Kiran Ashiq
creator: Muhammad Owais
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Rana Mehroz Fazal, Arooj Fatima, Basim. S. A. Al Sulivany, Rashid Hussain, Ali Hassan, Ayesha Shahid, Kiran Ashiq, Muhammad Owais https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-04
publication date: 2025-10-04
starting page: 510
ending page: 518
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1691

FACE DETECTION USING REFINED-RETINAFACE MODEL
type: item
description: RetinaFace is a multi-task and single-stage face detection model that detects faces and landmarks. However, it has limitations in detecting non-face content in output bounding boxes and mislocalizes facial landmarks for profile faces. To address these issues, Refined-RetinaFace (R-RetinaFace) is proposed. R-RetinaFace adds a post-optimization module that resizes bounding boxes and ensures all landmarks are within them. R-RetinaFace outperforms RetinaFace on SDUMLA-HMT and CASIA-3D-FaceV1 databases. On SDUMLA-HMT, R-RetinaFace achieves an ideal detection rate of 98.02%, a moderate detection rate of 1.32%, and a poor detection rate of 0.66%. On CASIA-3D-FaceV1, R-RetinaFace achieves ideal detection rates of 92.2%, moderate detection rates of 7%, and poor detection rates of 0.8%. In contrast, RetinaFace did not achieve ideal detection on both databases. It achieved only moderate and poor detection rates. On SDUMLA-HMT, RetinaFace achieves a moderate detection rate of 96.32% and a poor detection rate of 3.68%. On CASIA-3D-FaceV1, RetinaFace achieves a moderate detection rate of 83.9% and a poor detection rate of 16.1%. These results put R-RetinaFace a state-of-the-art method for face detection
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Face detection
  topic: keywords
subject: RetinaFace
  topic: keywords
subject: ResNet50
  topic: keywords
subject: Deep Learning
  topic: keywords
subject: Machine Learning
  topic: keywords
subject: Skin Color Detection
  topic: keywords
subject: Biometric Security
  topic: subjects
subject: Computer Science
  topic: disciplines
creator: Sagvan Ameen
creator: Ahmed AK. Tahir
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Sagvan J. M. Ameen, Ahmed AK. Tahir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-01-05
publication date: 2026-01-05
starting page: 1
ending page: 15
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1662

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS FOLIAR APPLICATION OF HUMIC ACID IN ENHANCING GROWTH AND YIELD OF SUGARCANE (Saccharum officinarum L.) VARIETIE
type: item
description: Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is a crop of significant agro-industrial value. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of foliar application of humic acid at different concentrations (0, 10, and 15 g per 4 L water) on the growth and yield performances of three sugarcane varieties (CP72-2086, CP89-2143, and CP81-325), additionally it was to ensure of growing sugarcane because for the first time it has been tested in the Erbil environment. The experiment was done in 15 April 2024, at Grdarasha Field, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences. The results indicated that CP81-325 var. superior to other varieties for all parameters. Also, growth and yield were significantly improved in the interaction treatment (S3H1), so the maximum values of plant height, internode length and total fresh yield were (3.79m, 35.00cm and 0.88 kg cane-1), respectively. Similar result of total fresh yield (0.88 kg cane-1), was recorded by the CP89-2143 var. when humic acid at the concentration of (15 g 4L-1 water) added to the plants, while in the control treatment (S2H0) just about (0.69 kg cane-1). Mostly, humic acid 10 g 4L-1 water showed the significant role in response for all varieties. Applying humic acid is necessary, it is not only for enhancing productivity but also for soil improvement and environment protection
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Sugarcane
  topic: keywords
subject: Humic Acid Foliar Application
  topic: keywords
subject: Improve Productivity
  topic: keywords
subject: Prevent Environment Pollution
  topic: keywords
subject: Plant Nurition
  topic: subjects
subject: Organic Fertilizer
  topic: subjects
subject: Agricultural Science
  topic: disciplines
subject: Field Crops and Medicinal Plants
  topic: disciplines
creator: Rabar Salih
creator: Shizar Dara Abdullah
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Rabar Fatah Salih, Shizar Dara Abdullah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-12
publication date: 2025-10-12
starting page: 644
ending page: 651
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1709

PREVALENCE AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF BLATEM, BLASHV AND BLACTX-M GENES IN ESBL-PRODUCING Escherichia coli AND Klebsiella pneumoniae ISOLATED FROM INTENSIVE CARE UNIT PATIENTS
type: item
description: The rise and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) not only significantly hinder the effective treatment of infectious diseases, but also lead to prolonged illness, treatment failures, and increased mortality. In intensive care units (ICUs), extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), are among the most concerning multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs. This research was conducted to find out the causative agents of ICU infections, identify their profiles of antimicrobial resistance, and assess associated virulence factors. Discrepancies were found in bacterial identification by molecular analysis using 16S rRNA sequencing compared to the Vitek2 system. More than half (50%) carried all three ESBL genes, while the prevalence of blaSHV + blaCTX-M carriers were the lowest. Isolates of E. coli from the study were not found to be salmon single ESBL genes (blaSHV, blaCTX, or blaTEM), only 5.26% of K. pneumoniae isolates carried blaTEM among them. Most of the strains had moderate to high biofilm-forming ability, which is the key to their MDR. In other words, ICU patients are vulnerable to colonization and infection with MDR pathogens, and still, E. coli and K. pneumoniae are the major threats that are linked to the resistance mechanisms and virulence factors of these pathogens.
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: ESBL
  topic: keywords
subject: E. coli
  topic: keywords
subject: K. pneumonea
  topic: keywords
subject: 16S rRNA
  topic: keywords
subject: ICU
  topic: keywords
subject: Microbiology
  topic: subjects
subject: Clinical Microbiology
  topic: disciplines
creator: Alla Shamsaddin
creator: Pishtiwan Hamad
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Alla Shamsaldin Abdullah and Pishtiwan Ahmad Hamad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
date: 2026-01-13
publication date: 2026-01-13
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1627

POLLEN MICROMORPHOLOGY OF FOUR Onobrychis SPECIES (Fabaceae) FROM THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
type: item
description: Polleniferous materials of four Onobrychis species were used in this study. Two different microscopes and one-way ANOVA analysis were applied. The pollen grains were tricolpate, isopolar, and consistently radially symmetrical. The value of the polar axis/equatorial diameter ranged from prolate to perprolate, which were categorized as tiny or medium in size. Exine sculpture patterns varied significantly when scanning electron microscopy was used: Onobrychis megataphora, O. crista-galli, and O. caput-galli have reticulate patterns; O. galegifolia has micro-reticulate perforates. The pollen morphology of O. caput-galli was noticeably perprolate due to its maximum polar axis/equatorial diameter value (2.02 µm). The O. crista-galli had the lowest polar axis/equatorial diameter value (1.37 µm), showing its prolate pollen morphology. A one-way ANOVA analysis revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) in the morphological features of polar length and equatorial diameter. The O. megataphros was primarily circular to ovoid-triangular in form, and O. caput-galli had a triangular outline. The two remaining species had circular shapes in polar view. In equatorial view, two species had elliptic-elongated shapes, while others had rectangular-obtuse outlines. Thus, these micromorphological dissimilarities indicate variations among taxa, and they can be used as taxonomic characters to identify and delimit Onobrychis species
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Fabaceae
  topic: keywords
subject: Genus
  topic: keywords
subject: Onobrychis
  topic: keywords
subject: Pollen Morphology
  topic: keywords
subject: SEM
  topic: keywords
subject: plant taxonomy
  topic: subjects
subject: biology
  topic: disciplines
creator: Chareen Darweesh
creator: Shamiran Salih Abdulrahman
creator: Jotyar Jassim Muhammed
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Chareen Mohammed Darweesh , Shamiran Salih Abdulrahman, Jotyar Jassim Muhammed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-07
publication date: 2025-10-07
starting page: 539
ending page: 546
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1687

DIETARY TURMERIC (Curcuma longa) ENHANCES GROWTH, ANTIOXIDANT DEFENSE, AND IMMUNITY IN Cirrhinus mrigala
type: item
description: Aquaculture is pivotal in addressing global food security, yet intensive practices compromise fish health and productivity. This study investigated the efficacy of dietary turmeric (Curcuma longa) supplementation as a natural alternative in Cirrhinus mrigala, a species critical to South Asian aquaculture. A 60-day feeding trial evaluated four diets: control (0% turmeric), 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% turmeric inclusion. Results demonstrated that 1.0% turmeric significantly enhanced growth performance, with a 28% increase in final body weight (19.6 ± 1.4 g vs. 15.7 ± 1.1 g in control; p< 0.01) and improved feed conversion ratio (1.4 ± 0.2 vs. 1.7 ± 0.2; p= 0.004). Antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, GPx) increased by 34–53%, while lipid peroxidation (MDA) decreased by 29% (p = 0.001), indicating robust oxidative stress mitigation. Immunological assays revealed a 65% rise in lysozyme activity and 70% higher phagocytic capacity (p< 0.01), underscoring turmeric’s immunostimulatory potential. The hepatosomatic index decreased by (1.3 ± 0.2% vs. 1.4 ± 0.2%; p = 0.038), suggesting increased metabolic efficiency. These findings highlight 1.0% turmeric as the optimal dosage, offering a sustainable strategy to augment aquaculture productivity while reducing reliance on antibiotics
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Curcuma longa
  topic: keywords
subject: Growth
  topic: keywords
subject: Antioxidant Defense
  topic: keywords
subject: Immunity
  topic: keywords
subject: Cirrhinus mrigala
  topic: keywords
subject: Fish nutrition
  topic: subjects
subject: Fish Nutrition
  topic: disciplines
creator: Ali Hassan
creator: Kajeen hassan jasim
creator: Ayesha Shahid
creator: Nizar J. Hussein
creator: Hafiza Aqsa Azam
creator: Muhammad Owais
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Ali Hassan, Kajeen hassan jasim, Nizar J. Hussein, Ayesha Shahid, Muhammad Owais https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-01
publication date: 2025-10-01
starting page: 463
ending page: 470
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1688

ASSOCIATION OF INTERLEUKIN-6, INTERLEUKIN-4, AND TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR-ALPHA GENE POLYMORPHISMS WITH SERUM CYTOKINE PROFILES IN BETA-THALASSEMIA MAJOR PATIENTS
type: item
description: Beta Thalassemia is an inherited condition results from mutation in β globin gene which leads to several complication including, severe anemia and iron overload among others, in which the signs appear in early childhood. This study investigated the possible role of cytokine gene polymorphism on thalassemia patients. Our research involved 72 patients diagnosed with beta thalassemia major and a control group of 40 cases. Both groups' ages ranged from 1 to 30 years. Serum cytokines IL-6, IL-4, and TNF-α level were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) as well as analyzing the genetic profile for the same genes. Blood samples were subjected to DNA isolation and molecular detection for gene polymorphism (interleukin 6 polymorphism at position 174, interleukin 4 polymorphisms at position 589, and tumor necrosis factor alpha polymorphism at position 308) using ARMS-PCR. Results showed significant increase in IL-6 and TNF-α (p<0.05), whereas the difference in IL-4 was not significant. High-producing genotypes (GG for IL-6, and GG for TNF-α) showed the highest serum cytokine levels, while low-producing genotypes (CC, and AA respectively) showed the lowest. Serum IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients across all IL-6 genotypes (GG, GC, CC) compared to their respective genotype-matched healthy controls. IL-4 decreased in CC and slightly increased in CT (not significantly). TNF-α levels significantly increased in GG and GA, but not in AA. For the IL-6 (-174G>C) polymorphism, the odds ratio for the GC genotype was 0.66 (95% CI: 0.27–1.61), whereas the odds ratio for the CC genotype was 1.42 (95% CI: 0.22–15.52). The CC, CT, and TT genotypes displayed varying frequencies among groups in the IL-4 gene polymorphism. In relation to the TNF-α gene polymorphism, the AA genotype displayed an odds ratio of 1.7 (95% CI: 0.13–91.27), while the large confidence interval suggests poor statistical precision, whereas the GG genotype was not substantially linked t…
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Thalassemia
  topic: keywords
subject: Interleukin-6
  topic: keywords
subject: Interleukin-4
  topic: keywords
subject: Tumor necrosis factor-alpha
  topic: keywords
subject: Single nucleotide polymorphism
  topic: keywords
subject: BIOLOGY
  topic: subjects
subject: Immunology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Molecular Biology
  topic: disciplines
creator: karzan fadhil
creator: Sarhang Azeez
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Karzan Fadhil Mohamad and Sarhang Hasan Azeez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
date: 2026-01-13
publication date: 2026-01-13
starting page: 70
ending page: 82
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1666

PREVALENCE OF Theileria annulata AND THE FIRST REPORT OF Theileria sinensis IN CATTLE FROM ERBIL PROVINCE, IRAQ
type: item
description: Bovine theileriosis is a significant tick-borne protozoan disease of cattle, primarily caused by species of the genus Theileria. This study investigated the prevalence of bovine theileriosis in cattle using both microscopic examination and conventional PCR (c-PCR). Microscopic analysis of Giemsa-stained blood smears identified an infection rate of 51/236 (21.6%), while c-PCR revealed a significantly higher prevalence of 106/236 (44.9%). Theileria species were characterized morphologically and confirmed via molecular methods. PCR analysis identified Theileria annulata and Theileria sinensis as the causative agents, with T. annulata showing the highest rate of single infections 89/106 (84%) compared to T. sinensis 17/106 (16%). Mixed infections were detected in 13/106 (12.3%) of cases. Age, sex, breed, housing conditions, acaricide use, and tick infestation were identified as key risk factors influencing infection rates. Management and tick-related factors significantly influenced Theileria prevalence, with higher infection rates observed in cattle with tick infestation 54/102 (52.9%), irregular or no acaricide use 58/115 (50.4%) and 27/47 (58.7%) respectively, non-cemented floors 72/125 (57.6%), and tick presence in barns 64/127 (50.4%). Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated genetic similarities between the identified T. annulata and T. sinensis sequences and strains reported from other geographical regions. Notably, this study provides the first report of T. sinensis in Iraq, highlighting its emergence and underscoring the need for enhanced surveillance and control measures against Theileria infections in the country. The high prevalence of the disease underscores the urgent need for enhanced surveillance, effective tick control measures, and the implementation of integrated strategies to mitigate the impact of bovine theileriosis on cattle health and productivity.
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Molecular; Theileria annulata; Theileria sinensis; Cattle; Management.
  topic: keywords
subject: parasitology
  topic: subjects
subject: molecular parasitology
  topic: disciplines
creator: Musa Wahab
creator: Khalid Aziz
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Musa Adil Wahab & Khalid Jabar Aziz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
date: 2026-01-10
publication date: 2026-01-10
starting page: 60
ending page: 69
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1665

ENHANCING NONLINEAR EQUATION SOLUTIONS THROUGH THE COMBINATION OF VARIANT NEWTON’S AND HALLEY’S METHODS
type: item
description: This work presents a new iterative method for solving single-variable nonlinear equations. The method achieves ninth-order convergence with just three derivative evaluations per step, offering both accuracy and lower computational cost. Unlike slower bracketing methods, it builds on faster open methods, though these may sometimes fail to converge. By blending ideas from Newton's and Halley's methods, the new approach provides strong performance, as shown by a detailed convergence analysis and MATLAB tests. Compared to existing techniques, it finds solutions in fewer steps and less time, making it especially effective for difficult nonlinear problems
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Newton’s method
  topic: keywords
subject: Variant of Newton’s method
  topic: keywords
subject: Halley’s method
  topic: keywords
subject: Efficiency index
  topic: keywords
subject: Nonlinear equations
  topic: keywords
subject: Mathematics
  topic: subjects
subject: numerical analysis
  topic: subjects
subject: MSC2020 Classification: 65A05 (Tables in numerical analysis),65B99(Acceleration of convergence in numerical analysis),65H05(Nonlinear algebraic or transcendental equations).
  topic: disciplines
creator: Kazhal Mohammed Ali
creator: Bayda Fathi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Kazhal Mohammed Ali, Bayda Gh. Fathi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-08
publication date: 2025-10-08
starting page: 589
ending page: 598
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1594

GREEN-SYNTHESIZED ZINC OXIDE NANOPARTICLES FROM VERJUICE (Vitis vinifera) EXHIBIT HEPATOPROTECTIVE AND ANTIOXIDANT EFFECTS AGAINST CARBON TETRACHLORIDE -INDUCED TOXICITY IN MALE RATS
type: item
description: Drug-induced liver injury, particularly that caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄), poses significant clinical challenges due to oxidative stress and limited therapeutic options. This study investigated the hepatoprotective and antioxidant potential of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using verjuice extract from unripe grapes in a CCl₄–induced rat model. The ZnO-NPs were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, fourier transform infrared (FTIR) scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses. Twenty male Wistar rats were assigned to four groups: control, CCl₄ toxicity (1 mL/kg twice weekly for 4 weeks), co-treatment (CCl₄ + ZnO-NPs 50 mg/kg daily for 4 weeks), and ZnO-NP post-treatment (CCl₄ for 4 weeks followed by ZnO-NPs 50 mg/kg daily for 4 weeks). ZnO-NPs significantly restored superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels to near control values, while normalizing alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities. Histopathological evaluation confirmed near-complete recovery of hepatic and renal architectures. These results demonstrate that verjuice-synthesized ZnO-NPs exert potent antioxidant and regenerative effects through the preservation of endogenous defenses and promotion of tissue repair, and the green synthesis approach offers an eco-friendly, biocompatible nanotherapeutic strategy with promising applications for drug-induced liver injury
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: carbon tetrachloride
  topic: keywords
subject: green synthesis
  topic: keywords
subject: hepatoprotection
  topic: keywords
subject: liver function
  topic: keywords
subject: oxidative stress biomarkers
  topic: keywords
subject: superoxide dismutase
  topic: keywords
subject: verjuice
  topic: keywords
subject: Nano-Technology
  topic: subjects
subject: ZnO nanoparticles
  topic: subjects
subject: Toxicology
  topic: subjects
subject: Nanoparticles
  topic: disciplines
subject: Toxicology
  topic: disciplines
creator: Pola aziz
creator: Treefa Ismail
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Pola Z. Aziz , Treefa F. Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-04
publication date: 2025-10-04
starting page: 519
ending page: 530
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1633

AN EXPLAINABLE DEEP LEARNING FRAMEWORK FOR BREAST CANCER CLASSIFICATION USING EFFICIENTNETV2B0 AND GRAD-CAM
type: item
description: Breast cancer remains one of the most serious health challenges worldwide, withearly and accurate diagnosis can significantly improve patient outcomes. Traditional diagnostic methods often rely heavily on expert interpretation, which may lead to inconsistencies or delays in decision-making. To address this issue, this research provides a deep-learning framework that uses the EfficientNetV2B0 model in combination with Grad-CAM (Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping) to provide illustrated explanations to detect breast cancer using ultrasound and MRI datasets. Our method addresses serious challenges such as class imbalance and irrelevant image characteristics by employing SMOTE (Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique) oversampling and Region of Interest (ROI) extraction for BUSI (Breast Ultrasound Images) datasets. The Grad-CAM approach improves reliability and transparency by providing visual proof that support’s each decision, allowing healthcare professionals to better understand the AI's prediction. Trained and assessed on two different medical imaging datasets, the framework obtained extraordinarily high accuracy (98.97% on BUSI and 99.55% on MRI), along with low prediction error and high reliability. The model is both accurate and understandable, making it ideal for clinical usage. It is also faster and more dependable than current approaches, making it highly beneficial.
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Deep Learning
  topic: keywords
subject: Breast cancer
  topic: keywords
subject: Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI)
  topic: keywords
subject: Region of Interest (ROI)
  topic: keywords
subject: Grad-CAM heatmap
  topic: keywords
subject: Data Science
  topic: subjects
subject: artificial intelligence
  topic: subjects
subject: Machine Learning
  topic: subjects
subject: Deep Learning
  topic: subjects
subject: Artificial Intelligence
  topic: disciplines
subject: Deep Learning
  topic: disciplines
creator: Diman Hassan
creator: Jane Haj Ali
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Jane M. Haj Ali and Diman Hassan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
date: 2026-01-13
publication date: 2026-01-13
starting page: 83
ending page: 96
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1659

FORMULATION AND OPTIMIZATION OF DOMPERIDONE-LOADED LIQUID SNEDDS: CHARACTERIZATION AND IN-VITRO EVALUATION
type: item
description: This research concentrated on developing and optimizing domperidone-loaded Self- nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) to enhance solubility, stability, and availability. Domperidone (DOM), a lipophilic drug characterized by its limited solubility in water, was integrated into SNEDDS formulations utilizing a range of oils, surfactants, and cosurfactants. Solubility studies indicated that orange oil exhibited the highest solubility for DOM at (47.94 mg/mL ± 0.085) against oils, Cremophor EL among surfactants, and Transcutol HP against cosurfactants. The solubility enhancement can be attributed to the formation of nanoemulsions, which effectively diminish particle size and enhances surface area, leading to improved dissolution and accelerated absorption. The optimization of the formulation was conducted utilizing a pseudo-ternary phase diagram, twelve successful formulations were evaluated and characterized for self-emulsification, stability, and drug release. In-vitro characterization demonstrated that F1 formula (Orange oil+ Cremophor EL+ Transcutol HP) using (2:8, oil: S.mix ratio) released DOM at rates up to 3.7 times greater than those of commercial products. The rapid emulsification times, ranging from (13.75 ± 0.528 to 32.17 ± 1.193 seconds), consistent droplet sizes, and a low PDI (0.28 ± 0.03 to 0.68 ± 0.2) have significantly improved bioavailability
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Availability
  topic: keywords
subject: Domperidone (DOM)
  topic: keywords
subject: Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System
  topic: keywords
subject: Solubility Study
  topic: keywords
subject: Science (Pharmacutics)
  topic: subjects
subject: HMU- collage of pharmacy- Pharmacutic department
  topic: disciplines
creator: Sara Rassol
creator: Adnan Burhan Qader
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Sara Taha Rasool , Adnan Burhan Qader https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-07-28
publication date: 2025-07-28
starting page: 435
ending page: 447
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.3.1576

EFFECT OF SLC19A1 GENE POLYMORPHISM AND HAPLOTYPES ON IDIOPATHIC RECURRENT PREGNANCY LOSS AMONG WOMEN IN DUHOK CITY
type: item
description: Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) affects 1-2% of women of reproductive age and is defined as two or more consecutive losses before 20 weeks of gestation. Idiopathic RPL, which has no known etiology, is increasingly linked to genetic factors, particularly genes involved in folate metabolism. The SLC19A1 gene encodes the reduced folate carrier (RFC1), which is necessary for cellular folate transport. Polymorphisms in this gene may impair folate absorption and homocysteine regulation, potentially leading to poor pregnancy outcomes. This study investigated the relationship between SLC19A1 gene polymorphisms (rs1131596, rs1051266, rs12659) and haplotypes with idiopathic RPL in women from Duhok, Iraq. A case-control study included 70 women with idiopathic RPL and 70 age-matched healthy controls. Genotyping was performed using ARMS-PCR and RFLP-PCR, and statistical analysis was carried out using chi-square, t-tests, and logistic regression. There was no significant association between RPL and the -43T>C or 80G>A polymorphisms. The 696C>T variant showed a marginal association (p = 0.041), with the TT genotype more frequent among RPL cases. Although this suggests a potential link, the result should be interpreted cautiously. Haplotype analysis revealed minimal linkage disequilibrium and no significant associations
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: recurrent pregnancy loss
  topic: keywords
subject: folate metabolism
  topic: keywords
subject: SLC19A1
  topic: keywords
subject: single nucleotide polymorphisms
  topic: keywords
subject: gene variants
  topic: keywords
subject: Gene Polymorphism
  topic: subjects
subject: SLC19A1 Gene
  topic: subjects
subject: Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
  topic: subjects
subject: Human Genetics
  topic: disciplines
subject: Medical Laboratory Sciences
  topic: disciplines
creator: Hozheen Darweesh
creator: Adil Abozaid Eissa
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Hozheen Abdulrahman Darweesh, Adil Abozaid Eissa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-11
publication date: 2025-10-11
starting page: 619
ending page: 626
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1604

A PRUNED VGG16 WITH HYBRID PREPROCESSING AND DATA BALANCING FOR ROBUST AND INTERPRETABLE LUNG CANCER CLASSIFICATION
type: item
description: Lung cancer is the most common and deadliest type of cancer globally, creating a critical need for diagnostic tools that are not only accurate but also practical for clinical integration. This study introduces a robust, computationally efficient, and interpretable deep learning framework using Computed Tomography (CT) images to address limitations in existing models, such as high computational costs, poor data quality, and a lack of transparency. Our approach utilizes a VGG16 architecture, streamlined through structured pruning, which reduced the parameter count from 138.3M to 26.6M without compromising performance. We developed a hybrid pipeline with dual filtering and adaptive CLAHE to enhance image quality, while data diversity and imbalance were mitigated using hybrid augmentation and SMOTE. The model was trained with a rigorous strategy, including four-fold cross-validation and dual-phase fine-tuning with a dynamic learning rate, ensuring stable convergence. On a primary single-source dataset, the model achieved a test accuracy of 0.9910 and a Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC) of 0.9845. To validate real-world applicability, the framework was tested on a large multi-source dataset, demonstrating strong generalization with a balanced accuracy of 0.9693 and an MCC of 0.9427. Model interpretability was confirmed using Grad-CAM visualizations to highlight clinically relevant regions. This framework provides a highly accurate, computationally efficient, and generalizable solution with significant potential for clinical deployment as a reliable diagnostic aid
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Lung cancer
  topic: keywords
subject: Deep Learning (DL)
  topic: keywords
subject: Computed Tomography (CT)
  topic: keywords
subject: Transfer learning
  topic: keywords
subject: Hybrid Preprocessing
  topic: keywords
subject: VGG16
  topic: keywords
subject: Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE)
  topic: keywords
subject: Lung Cancer Detection
  topic: subjects
subject: Medical Image Analysis
  topic: subjects
subject: CT Imaging
  topic: subjects
subject: Transfer Learning
  topic: subjects
subject: Deep Learning in Healthcare
  topic: subjects
subject: Computer Engineering
  topic: disciplines
subject: Biomedical Engineering
  topic: disciplines
subject: Image Processing
  topic: disciplines
subject: Artificial Intelligence
  topic: disciplines
subject: Deep Learning
  topic: disciplines
subject: Medical Informatics
  topic: disciplines
creator: Marwa Salih
creator: Mohammed Ahmed Shakir
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Marwa Salih Ramadhan, Mohammed Ahmed Shakir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-08
publication date: 2025-10-08
starting page: 599
ending page: 618
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1597

NUMERICAL SOLUTION OF CUBIC-QUINTIC NONLINEAR SCHRÖDINGER EQUATION
type: item
description: This paper is devoted to investigating and comparing the variational iteration method (VIM) and the residual power series method (RPSM) for solving the cubic-quintic nonlinear Schrödinger equation (CQNLSE) initially developed to elucidate the propagation of pulses in optical fibers. Next, we use the initial conditions to get the numerical solutions of the CQNLSE. We compared the known exact solutions with the approximate results obtained using both the VIM and RPSM. The exact solution and the results from RPSM are evaluated against those from VIM. The findings demonstrated that VIM outperformed RPSM in terms of accuracy, efficiency, and ease of implementation for solving the CQNLSE. In addition, the current results are shown graphically and in the table
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Numerical solution
  topic: keywords
subject: Cubic-Quintic Nonlinear Schrödinger equation
  topic: keywords
subject: Residual Power Series Method
  topic: keywords
subject: Variational Iteration Method
  topic: keywords
subject: Lagrange multiplier
  topic: keywords
subject: Mathematics
  topic: subjects
subject: Numerical Analysis
  topic: subjects
subject: 65A05 (Tables in numerical analysis), 65N99 (Numerical Analysis), 35Q60 (Partial differential equations).
  topic: disciplines
creator: KAZHEEN Hasan Omar
creator: Fadhil Easif
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 KAZHEEN Hasan Omar, Fadhil H. Easif https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-02
publication date: 2025-10-02
starting page: 499
ending page: 509
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1595

ASSESSMENT OF SOME HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATION IN WINTER WHEAT CROP (Triticum aestivum l.) GROWN IN SOIL AROUND INDUSTRIAL AREA WITHIN DUHOK CITY, KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
type: item
description: Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a crucial staple grain for global food security, but the accumulation of harmful trace metals can compromise its safety. This study investigated the concentrations of copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and lead (Pb) in wheat grains and soil from various locations near an industrial area in Duhok City, from February and June 2024. The metal concentrations in wheat grains were found to range from 0.539±0.0231 to 1.035±0.0028 mg/kg for lead, 0.417±0.0085 to 0.5666±0.0063 mg/kg for zinc, 0.2203±0.0033 to 0.2723±0.0016 mg/kg for copper, and 0.004±0.001 to 0.0293±0.0038 mg/kg for cadmium., The result showed that the levels of Zn, Cu, and Cd in wheat grain were within the permissible limit according to the World Health Organisation WHO Codex Alimentarius. This suggests that industrial pollutants pose significant health risks to populations living near contaminated environments. The results of agricultural soil samples collected from the industrial area showed that the area has been slightly contaminated with toxic metals. There were considerable variations (P<0.05) in the concentrations of metals across the study locations. P-values for Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cd in both soil and wheat grains indicate that industrial emissions and transformation are significant sources of contamination
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Heavy metals
  topic: keywords
subject: Soil pollution
  topic: keywords
subject: Wheat grain
  topic: keywords
subject: Industrial pollutant
  topic: keywords
subject: Environmental pollution
  topic: subjects
subject: Ecology
  topic: subjects
subject: Heavy metal
  topic: disciplines
subject: Ecology and Pollution
  topic: disciplines
creator: biryar zebari
creator: Musher R. Ahmed Albarwary
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Biryar M. Mustfa, Musher R. Ahmed Albarwary https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-12
publication date: 2025-10-12
starting page: 627
ending page: 637
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1602

IMPACT OF VITAMIN D STATUS, IRON PROFILES, AND TRACE ELEMENTS IMBALANCES ON CARDIOMETABOLIC RISK FACTORS IN WOMEN WITH SUBCLINICAL HYPOTHYROIDISM
type: item
description: The main aim of this study was to elucidate the impact of vitamin D, iron profile, and trace elements imbalances on cardiometabolic risk factors in newly diagnosed women with subclinical hypothyroid. Fifty newly diagnosed subclinical hypothyroid (SCHT) females, aged 18-50 years, and 40 healthy females matched in age with patients were enrolled in the present study. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), Free thyroxin (FT4), Free triiodothyronine (FT3), vitamin D, and serum ferritin were measured using an electrochemiluminescence assay. Lipid profile, serum iron (Fe), and unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) were analyzed by a photometric measuring unit. Serum zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), and copper (Cu) were quantified using a colorimetric method. The current study indicated a significant increase in cardiometabolic risk factors such as fasting blood sugar (FBS), lipid profile, Triglyceride-glucose index (TyGi), and Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) in SCHT, in contrast to the healthy group. Furthermore, a strong association was noted between elevated TSH and lipid profile, fasting blood sugar, AIP, and TyGi. Additionally, a substantial association was indicated between reduced vitamin D, ferritin, magnesium levels, and elevated copper levels with cardiometabolic risk factors. The current study concluded that low vitamin D, ferritin, magnesium levels, and elevated copper levels are linked with cardiometabolic risk factors in females diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism. Reduced vitamin D, magnesium levels, disrupted iron metabolism, and elevated serum copper were linked to heightened atherogenic risk and metabolic abnormalities
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: cardiometabolic risk factors
  topic: keywords
subject: subclinical hypothyroidism
  topic: keywords
subject: vitamin D
  topic: keywords
subject: iron profile
  topic: keywords
subject: trace elements
  topic: keywords
subject: Subclinical hypothyroidism
  topic: subjects
subject: Cardiometabolic risk factors
  topic: subjects
subject: Endocrinology
  topic: disciplines
subject: Clinical biochemistry
  topic: disciplines
subject: Metabolic disorders
  topic: disciplines
creator: Chiman Sulaiman
creator: Lina Mohammed
creator: Mohammed Hami
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Chiman H. Sulaiman, Lina Y. Mohammed, Mohammed A. Hami https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-07
publication date: 2025-10-07
starting page: 547
ending page: 557
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1560

DIAMETER INCREMENT ESTIMATIONS OF Pinus brutia Ten. FORESTS STAND OF DUHOK GOVERNORATE, KURDISTAN REGION, IRAQ
type: item
description: Pinus brutia Ten., a native eastern Mediterranean conifer, is prominent in northern Iraq and has enormous importance in the stability of ecosystems, biodiversity, and landscape protection. This study was conducted on Calabrian pine populations sampled from three ecologically differentiated sites in Duhok Province, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Fifteen trees were selected, five per site, four of which will be used in a model calibration and one will be used for validation. Partial stem analysis was conducted by extracting cross-sections at breast height diameter. Despite the small sample size, the dataset provided sufficient observations for reliable statistical modeling. A systematic model selection framework was employed, incorporating tests of model assumptions, goodness of fit metrics, residual diagnostics, the Salih index to enhance the precision of Ohtomo’s test, R² interpretation, the Furnival index, and the Bias percent test. Allometric regression models were developed using STATGRAPHICS Centurion 19 software, and both homogeneous and heterogeneous forms were assessed. A t-test confirmed the reliability of the calibration models. Site-specific equations were derived based on the best-fitting regression forms: a curvilinear model was selected for both Zawita (Di = 6.2 − 1.2119 × ln(D)) and Atrush (Di = 14.8 − 2.8561 × ln(D)), while a square root transformation yielded the best fit at Belkef (Di = 14.1 − 1.7501 × √D)
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Diameter increment estimating
  topic: keywords
subject: Duhok governorate
  topic: keywords
subject: Pinus brutia
  topic: keywords
subject: Statistical model
  topic: keywords
subject: Forest Management
  topic: subjects
subject: Forest Modeling
  topic: subjects
subject: forest mensuration
  topic: subjects
subject: forest biometry
  topic: subjects
subject: forest management
  topic: disciplines
creator: Abdulaziz Jameel Younis
creator: Tariq Kurko Salih
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Abdulaziz Jameel Younis, Tariq Kurko Salih https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-08
publication date: 2025-10-08
starting page: 577
ending page: 588
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1581

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF IMMUNOLOGICAL CHANGES LINKED TO ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE USE IN MALE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
type: item
description: <span style="font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 6.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-font-kerning: 1.0pt; mso-ligatures: standardcontextual; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">The growing popularity of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), especially among young adults, is concerning due to the possible impacts on immune system function. This study evaluates the effect of e-cigarette usage on the immunological profile in a sample of 80 male university students aged 18 to 24 years. Participants were divided into two groups of 50 electronic cigarette users and 30 non-electronic cigarette users as the control. Key immunological parameters, including C-reactive protein (CRP), Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA), Cardiolipin Antibodies, and White Blood Cells (WBC) counts and differentials, were examined. Electronic cigarette users had significantly elevated ANA positivity (98% vs. 3.3%; p=0.0001), Cardiolipin antibodies (31.70 ± 0.882U/mL vs. 17.61 ± 0.928 U/mL; p=0.0001), indicating possible autoimmune activation, and IL-6 levels (50.546 ± 12.622 pg/mL vs. 17.616 ± 0.928 pg/mL; p=0.0001), which suggested systemic inflammation. CRP (1.159 ± 0.144mg/L vs. 1.170 ± 0.184mg/L; p=0.9567) did not differ significantly. The groups' WBC counts and differentials (neutrophils, lymphocytes) were similar (p > 0.05). These results show that electronic cigarette use is associated with a pro-inflammatory state (IL-6) and an autoimmune association (ANA and cardiolipin), but it did not affect acute-phase response (CRP). To investigate long-term immunological effects, further investigation is necessary.
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Electronic Cigarette
  topic: keywords
subject: IL-6
  topic: keywords
subject: ANA
  topic: keywords
subject: Inflammation
  topic: keywords
subject: Cardiolipin Antibodies
  topic: keywords
subject: Biology/Physiology
  topic: subjects
subject: Natural and applied sciences
  topic: disciplines
creator: Qadir Hamad
creator: Ismail Kakey
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Qadir H. Hamad and and Ismail S. Kakey https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/
date: 2026-01-09
publication date: 2026-01-09
starting page: 43
ending page: 51
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2026.14.1.1580

IRRIGATION WATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT USING CROSS IN DUHOK GOVERNORATE, KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ
type: item
description: This study was conducted in the Duhok Governorate, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. A total of eleven natural water samples were collected from different water sources, including Rivers, lakes, wells, and drainage canals. All samples were analyzed in triplicate to ensure accuracy and reproducibility. Electrical Conductivity (EC), pH, Bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻), major Cations: Calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), Sodium (Na⁺), and Potassium (K⁺) were determined. Sodium (Na) levels ranged from 0.075 to 34.883 mmolc L⁻¹, with Kashi exhibiting the highest concentration, while the lowest one was registered in the Khabur River 0.075 mmolc L⁻¹). Potassium (K) concentration was generally low across all samples, with a mean of 3.253 mmol/L. Khabur River had the lowest across all samples (0.055 mmolc L⁻¹). The highest was in Hishkarow (0.63 mmolc L⁻¹). Calcium levels vary widely from 1.05 to 5.4 mmolc L⁻¹, with Bedol River showing the highest Ca concentration. Magnesium levels were higher than Ca in some samples. Qasara well 2 had the highest magnesium (Mg) concentration (6.00 mmolc L⁻¹), while the lowest was determined in Bedol River (0.6 mmolc L⁻¹). The adjusted Ca concentrations ranged from 0.907 to 3.548 mmolc L⁻¹, with the highest value in Duhok Dam. Highest Kashi EC (4.290 dS. m⁻¹) indicates very high salinity, which may affect water usability for irrigation, in contrast to the lowest in Bedol River (0.406 dS. m⁻¹), which suggests good water quality with low dissolved salts. Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) was the highest for Kashi (17.082), indicating a high risk of soil dispersion if used for irrigation; however, the lowest was (0.056) for Khabur River, suggesting no salinity hazard. CROSS values ranged from 0.091 to 18.368, and CROSS (using adj. Ca) ranged from 0.103 (Khabure River) to 24.341 in (Kashi). The results highlighted variation in all parameters, influencing the suitability of these water sources for irrigation. The best water source for agriculture is the Khabur River, which…
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Sodium Adsorption Ratio
  topic: keywords
subject: Cation Ratio of Structural Stability
  topic: keywords
subject: irrigation water quality
  topic: keywords
subject: adjusted Ca
  topic: keywords
subject: and wastewater
  topic: keywords
subject: Agriculture
  topic: subjects
subject: Soil & Water Sciences
  topic: disciplines
creator: Sipal Mohammed Taher Yousif HAMI
creator: Khalida Hassan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Sipal M. Yousif , Khalida A. Hassan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-08
publication date: 2025-10-08
starting page: 569
ending page: 576
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1565

EVALUATION OF OXIDATIVE STRESS, ANTIOXIDANT DEFENSES, AND BIOCHEMICAL DYSREGULATION IN OBESE VS. NON-OBESE ADULT MALES
type: item
description: Obesity is a major public health concern linked to metabolic disturbances and increased oxidative stress. The objective of this research is to evaluate the effect of obesity on oxidative–antioxidant balance in adult males. Comparative cross-sectional study was done at Zakho General Hospital, Iraq, from October 2024 to January 2025, involving 90 males aged 18–44 years, distributed into obese body mass index (BMI) ≥30 and non-obese body mass index (BMI) <25 groups. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for biochemical, and oxidative stress parameters using Cobas auto-analyzers and spectrophotometric methods. Obese individuals exhibited significantly higher body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin (FI), lipid profile, Liver enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)), Kidney function parameters (urea, creatinine and uric acid), High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in comparison with controls. Concentrations of Zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) were elevated, whereas magnesium (Mg) was decreased in the obese group. Antioxidant markers (glutathione S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase) were significantly reduced in obese group. Strong negative correlations are observed between oxidative markers and most anthropometric and biochemical parameters. Obesity in adult males is associated with impaired antioxidant defense and alterations in trace elements, emphasizing the oxidative stress burden in obese individuals and the need for early preventive strategies
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Obesity
  topic: keywords
subject: Oxidative Stress
  topic: keywords
subject: Prostate cancer, Oxidative stress, Antioxidants, SOD, PC
  topic: keywords
subject: Trace Elements
  topic: keywords
subject: Metabolic Parameters
  topic: keywords
subject: Oxidative stress
  topic: subjects
subject: Obesity
  topic: subjects
subject: Antioxidant enzymes
  topic: subjects
subject: Biochemistry
  topic: subjects
subject: Clinical chemistry
  topic: subjects
subject: Chemistry
  topic: disciplines
subject: Biomedical Science
  topic: disciplines
subject: Medical Biochemistry
  topic: disciplines
subject: Public Health
  topic: disciplines
subject: Metabolic Research
  topic: disciplines
creator: Sozdar Adil
creator: Lina Mohammed
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Sozdar Ayoub Adil, Lina Yousif Mohammed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-07-05
publication date: 2025-07-05
starting page: 408
ending page: 415
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.3.1601

MULTI-CLASSIFICATION OF EYE DISEASES USING A CNN-HARALICK HYBRID FRAMEWORK
type: item
description: The detection and classification of eye diseases, including Diabetic Retinopathy, Cataract, and Normal conditions, are critical in medical imaging for early diagnosis and treatment. This study proposes a hybrid CNN-Haralick model, leveraging the lightweight MobileNetV2 CNN architecture for spatial feature extraction and Haralick texture features extraction for texture analysis to enhance the accuracy of eye disease classification. A dual-branch architecture is employed, which fuses features from both the Convolutional Neural Network and the Haralick-based texture analysis at an early stage. The model is evaluated on a dataset consisting of images from multiple sources. Experimental results show that the hybrid CNN-Haralick model achieves an overall accuracy of 98% on the validation set, outperforming traditional CNN models. The model demonstrates exceptional performance, with a macro average F1-score of 98% for the three classes, and AUC-ROC scores of 100% for each category. The confusion matrix and classification report further validate the model's capability to accurately classify eye diseases, providing reliable decision support for clinicians. Additionally, the model's effectiveness is discussed in comparison with existing works, highlighting its superior performance in terms of both accuracy and computational efficiency.
subject: Science Journal of University of Zakho
  topic: section
subject: Eye Diseases
  topic: keywords
subject: CNN
  topic: keywords
subject: Haralick
  topic: keywords
subject: Hybrid Model
  topic: keywords
subject: Spatial Analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Texture Analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: Dual-Branch Architecture
  topic: keywords
subject: computer science artificial intelligence
  topic: subjects
subject: Machine Learning
  topic: subjects
subject: Object recognition
  topic: subjects
subject: Medical Image Processing
  topic: subjects
subject: Machine Learning
  topic: disciplines
subject: Computer Science
  topic: disciplines
creator: Oluwaseyi Ezekiel Olorunshola
creator: Nanji Lakan
creator: Fatimah Adamu-Fika
creator: Joshua Caleb Ishaya
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Oluwaseyi Ezekiel Olorunshola, Nanji Emmanuella Lakan, Fatimah Adamu-Fika, Joshua Caleb Ishaya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-10-02
publication date: 2025-10-02
starting page: 479
ending page: 488
doi: 10.25271/sjuoz.2025.13.4.1593