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A Text Typological Assessment of Automatic Translation: A Case Study of English into Kurdish Translated Texts by Open AI GPT and Google Translate
No full textThe extensive use of artificial intelligence in translation projects has motivated this study to evaluate the quality of two popular systems, GPT Open AI and Google Translate. To assess the systems’ performance 15 sentences were chosen from a variety of text types based on Katharina Riess’s text typology informative, expressive, and vocative and were used as input data for translation into the Kurdish language. The output translations were then assessed using two evaluation metrics: BLEU and TER. The findings revealed that overall, GPT outperformed Google Translate, as it achieved a higher BLEU score reflecting better choices in equivalence and sentence structure and a lower TER score, indicating fewer necessary corrections in the translated text compared to the human (reference sentences) translation. In particular, GPT presents a better performance in the translation of expressive and vocative texts, where understanding emotions and persuasive language is more difficult
The Impact of Informal Institutions in the Absence of Strong Formal State Structure: The Role of “Tribal Houses” in Chamchamal, Kurdistan Region-Iraq
No full textIn assessing a political system, emphasis is often placed on formal state structures and institutions, including multi-party systems, elections, the executive and legislative branches, and judicial bodies. Accordingly, political systems are frequently assessed through the lens of formal institutions. However, in many developing countries in the Middle East, this formal perspective alone fails to capture the full complexity of political dynamics. Informal institutions, which play a crucial role, are often overlooked. In such contexts, regimes, elite decision-making, and citizen behavior are all influenced by informal institutions. Unlike many studies that emphasize formal institutions in the region, this research focuses on the role of informal institutions, specifically examining the influence of “Tribal Houses” in Chamchamal District. The study explores how tribal houses impact governance, with a focus on their effects on political engagement, court decisions, and accountability of officials. Using a questionnaire for data collection, the study aims to assess the influence of tribal houses on these three key pillars of governance in the city
A Foucauldian Reading of Power Dynamics in Lois Lowry’s The Giver
No full textLois Lowry’s The Giver (1993) is a post-apocalyptic young–adult novel that shows a society which at first glance seems to be a utopia; however, underneath it represents a dystopian society. The novel may depict a peaceful world in which everyone is equal and has the same rights; however, this peacefulness comes at a cost. It represents a totalitarian regime that makes every decision on behalf of its citizens. The plot of the novel unfolds through the main character’s journey. When he is assigned the unique and respected role of receiver of memories, he becomes aware that his community has been deprived of living a normal life. The novel displays a dystopian world and the consequences of enforced equality. Through the progression of the storyline, the reader realizes that it shows an unjust world where truth is meticulosity controlled. The totalitarian regime creates the illusion of a world that appears peaceful, people are not allowed to choose their spouses or have the right to naturally reproduce. Thus, this present article attempts to analyze the representation of power dynamics through the lens of Michel Foucault’s theories. Moreover, it explores the relationship between the citizens and the figures of authority. A Foucauldian analysis allows an investigation of mechanisms of power. Furthermore, this article explores how thenovel represents control over sexual reproductivity, language use, as well as manipulation through surveillance
Ranking Pressures and Strategic Responses: : Examining the Influence of Global University Rankings on Higher Education Governance
No full textThis study examines ranking pressures and strategic responses to global university rankings in the context of higher education governance in the Kurdistan Region. A descriptive-analytical approach was adopted, in which variables were defined and their relationships and impacts analyzed, the research was conducted in both public and private universities in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. To achieve the research objectives, a questionnaire was designed to gather field data and was administered to a random sample of academic leaders. A total of 475 valid questionnaires were collected and analyzed. Data were statistically analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. The findings reveal that global university rankings significantly influence higher education governance in the Kurdistan Region, with institutions adjusting their policies and structures to meet ranking pressures. Ranking considerations and governance reforms are closely correlated, and rankings play a central role in shaping decision-making processes. Finally, the study recommends that universities establish strong relations with major international universities and institutions. Such partnerships may include student and faculty exchange programs as well as joint research initiatives
Performance Comparison of Neural Networks Training Algorithms in Time Series Forecasting
No full textResearch gaps exist in the area of forecasting since there has been no comparison between different algorithms for training the Feed Forward Neural Network (FFNN) model. One of the main reasons for this existing gap is that it’s hard to decide which training algorithm to choose. This study proposes to fill that gap by identifying the best method to train the FFNN (both shallow and deep learning), a technique for a univariate monthly time series forecast. A total of seven widely known techniques have been studied to compare their efficiency: Quick Propagation Algorithm, Conjugate Gradient Descent Algorithm, Quasi-Newton Algorithm, Limited Memory Quasi-Newton Algorithm, Levenberg Marquardt Algorithm, Online Back Propagation Algorithm (Stochastic Gradient Descent), and lastly the Batch Back Propagation Algorithm. The study was carried out using Alyuda NeuroIntelligence 2.2. Additionally, four statistical measurements (MAPE, RMSE, MAE, and R²) were used for comparison. The results indicate that Conjugate Gradient Descent outperforms the other algorithms, yielding the highest R² and the lowest values for RMSE, MAPE, and MAE, proving its superior effectiveness in training the FFNN for forecasting monthly time series. Whereas, Batch Back-propagation was shown to be the least effective algorithm, with the lowest R² value and highest values for RMSE, MAPE, and MAE
Shifting Paradigm in the Incidence of Postmenopausal Breast Cancer in Sulaimani in 10 Years Period
No full textBreast cancer (BC) remains the most common malignancy among women worldwide, with postmenopausal women accounting for a substantial proportion of cases; however, data on long-term incidence trends and molecular subtype patterns in Iraqi Kurdistan remain limited. This study evaluated 10-year incidence trends of postmenopausal BC in Sulaimani, Iraq, and characterized associated demographic factors and molecular subtype distributions. A cross-sectional study was conducted using clinical records from Hiwa Cancer Hospital and Zhianawa Hospital between 2015 and 2024. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) were calculated, and temporal trends were assessed using Joinpoint regression analysis to estimate annual percent change (APC). Demographic, clinical, and molecular characteristics, including estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and Ki-67 based immunohistochemical subtypes (Luminal A, Luminal B, HER2-enriched, and Triple Negative), were analyzed in a representative sample of postmenopausal BC patients. The ASIR of BC increased from 119.1/100,000 in 2015 to 164.0/100,000 in 2024, reflecting a 37.8% overall rise. Joinpoint regression identified a marked increase between 2015 and 2017 (APC = +10.24%), followed by a plateau from 2017 to 2024 (APC = +0.02%). Women aged 55–64 years constituted the largest proportion of postmenopausal cases, with evidence of a shift toward younger postmenopausal age groups over time. Obesity was highly prevalent among patients. Luminal B was the predominant molecular subtype, while HER2-enrichedand triple-negative subtypes declined significantly across the study period. In conclusion, postmenopausal BC incidence in Sulaimani has increased over the past decade, with recent stabilization and a shift toward hormone receptor-positive molecular subtypes. These findings underscore the importance of strengthening early detection strategies, addressing modifiable risk factors, and optimizing subtype-guided management to improve BC outcomes in the region
The Role of Accounting-Based Decision Support Systems on Business Management Decisions in Private Banks in Erbil
No full textThis study explores the role of accounting-based decision support systems in enhancing business management decisions in the context of private banks in Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. The research focuses on three key components: Internal Control Systems, Decision-Making Tools and Techniques, and Financial Accounting Information – proposing that each plays a significant role in improving the quality and effectiveness of managerial decision-making. A quantitative research method was adopted to investigate these relationships. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire distributed to Finance and Accounting Managers, Accountants, and Auditors working in private banks across Erbil, specifically Cihan Bank, Kurdistan International Bank, Region Trade Bank (RT Bank), and the Trade Bank of Iraq. A total of 120 questionnaires were distributed using simple random sampling, of which 94 valid responses were returned, resulting in a response rate of 78.33%. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26 to test the three proposed hypotheses. The findings reveal that all three independent variables, namely Internal Control Systems, Decision-Making Tools and Techniques, and Financial Accounting Information, have a statistically significant positive effect on business management decisions. These results align with existing literature and highlight the importance of robust accounting systems in supporting strategic and operational decision-making in the banking sector. The study offers practical insights for enhancing decision-making efficiency and strengthening management practices in private financial institutions
Assessing the Effects of Mentha longifolia on Liver Structure in Castrated Rats
No full textThe liver is the largest internal organ in the human body. It has dual roles: An exocrine function, producing bile to aid digestion, and an endocrine-like function, helping regulate metabolism. It cleanses the blood, makes important proteins, and stores essential nutrients. This study aimed to assess the impact of Mentha longifolia extract on a variety of physiological, biochemical, and histological parameters. A total of 21 male rats (Rattus norvegicus), 3 weeks of age, from the order Rodentia and family Muridae, were used in this study. Rats were divided into three groups, each consisting of seven rats. Both Group 1 (control) and Group 2 (castrated) of male rats received tap water. However, male rats in Group 3 were castrated and administered a daily intragastric extract of M. longifolia (6 g/kg). In castrated-treated groups, the effects of consuming a freshly made extract of M. longifolia were examined for various biochemical parameters of liver enzymes and lipid profile, as well as the histological structures of liver tissue. The outcomes of the biochemical tests performed on the treated subjects did not reveal any notable variations. Histological sections of the castrated group’s liver tissue showed cellular inflammation of lymphocytes, ballooning degeneration, and acidophil bodies (Councilman Bodies) in contrast to the control group. The histological structure of the injured liver did not fully recover in rats that had been castrated and fed 6 g/kg daily for 4 weeks. On the other hand, this treatment greatly reduced the adverse effects of castration, such as macrovesicular steatosis, Councilman Bodies, and mild ballooning degeneration. According to the current research, fresh M. longifolia extract may have some hepatoprotective benefits against castration
Tasks and Responsibilities of Diplomatic Representatives According to International Law
Get PDFThis study examines the legal foundations, historical development, and contemporary functions of diplomatic representation under international law. The methodology used for analysis is Analyze diplomatic documents for cultural practices, textual functions, and social contexts using refined comparative methods. Emphasizing diplomatic representation evolution from customary practices and temporary envoys to codification according to international agreements such as the 1961 Vienna Agreement on Diplomatic Relations and the 1963 Vienna Agreement on Consular Relations. These conventions formalized the privileges, immunities, and obligations of diplomatic representatives, ensuring that diplomacy operates within a framework of sovereignty, reciprocity, and mutual respect. The analysis highlights the diverse roles of ambassadors, consuls, attachés, high commissioners, and other envoys who, beyond serving as symbols of state sovereignty, actively engage in political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian affairs. Their responsibilities encompass negotiation, crisis management, protection of nationals abroad, facilitation of trade and investment, policy reporting, and the promotion of cultural exchange. Historically, diplomacy has demonstrated adaptability to global transformations, from the Peace of Westphalia and the conference of Vienna to the foundation of international organizations such as the United Nations, reflecting its central role in shaping international order
Isolation and Identification of Some Pathogens of Terrestrial Snail Rumina decollata from Erbil Province, Kurdistan Region, Iraq:
Get PDFTerrestrial snails are known to act as intermediate hosts for parasites and carriers of various bacteria. The present study aimed to isolate and identify some bacteria and larval trematodes from the terrestrial snail Rumina decollata (Linnaeus, 1758) collected from different locations in Erbil Province, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Snail specimens were processed using standard laboratory techniques for bacteriological culture and parasitological examination. Several bacterial isolates were identified based on morphological and biochemical characteristics, including (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Citrobacter koseri [Citrobacter diversus], Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterobacter cloacae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Citrobacter freundii, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Pseudomonas mendocina, Pantoea agglomerans [Enterobacter agglomerans], Acinetobacter calcoaceticus). In addition, larval trematodes of Lutztrema attenuatum were detected in a proportion of the examined snails. The results indicated that R. decollata harbors different bacterial species and larval trematodes, as the first investigation in Iraq. The presence of these organisms indicates that R. decollata may play a role in the transmission of bacterial and parasitic infections, which may pose risks to public and animal health, and contribute to a better understanding of the epidemiological significance of terrestrial snails in the region