Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the possible the association between +3061 (G>A, rs1143676) missense mutation in exon 24 of the integrin α-4 subunit (ITGA-4) gene and the response to natalizumab in a sample of Iraqi multiple sclerosis patients. Methods: A sample of 59 patients with multiple sclerosis (16 males and 43 females; mean age of 32 years; age range of 15 to 52 years) receiving natalizumab for at least 12 consecutive months were involved in the study between March and August/ 2022. The sample was categorized into two groups according to their response to natalizumab treatment (responders and non-responders). Polymerase chain reaction and Sanger’s sequencing for the extracted deoxyribonucleic acid was performed to identify the polymorphism at ITGA-4 gene promoter region. Results: The 3061 AA and AG genotypes were present in both groups (responders and non-responders to natalizumab treatment) with the lack of the wild form GG genotype. The AG genotype was significantly present in the non-responders’ group and appeared to have a significant impact on the responsiveness to natalizumab by increasing the propensity of being non-responder with a positive correlation (Phi-coefficient of 0.294) on the contrary of AA genotype. Conclusion: The +3061 (G.A) missense mutation is related to the response to natalizumab in multiple sclerosis patients with the AG genotype, thereby increasing the likelihood of non-response significantly.
<p>In the mobile phone system, it is highly desirable to estimate the loss of the track not only to improve performance but also to achieve an accurate estimate of financial feasibility; the inaccurate estimate of track loss either leads to performance degradation or increased cost. Various models have been introduced to accurately estimate the path loss. One of these models is the Okomura / Hata model, which is recommended for estimating path loss in cellular systems that use micro cells. This system is suitable for use in a variety of environments. This study examines the comparison of path loss models for statistical analysis derived from experimental data collected in urban and suburban areas at frequencies of 150-1500 MHz
... Show MoreAbstract Background The aim of this study was to identify differences in oral cancer incidence among sexes, age groups and oral sites over time in Iraqi population. Methods Data was obtained from Iraqi cancer registry, differences and trends were assessed with the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks test and Regression test, respectively. Results In Iraq from 2000 to 2008, there were 1787 new cases of oral cancer registered, 1035 in men and 752 in women. Cancer at all oral sites affected men more than women. The Tongue other (ICD-02) is the most frequent site follow by lip (ICD-00). Conclusion The decrease in the percent of oral cancer incidence in Iraq not compatible with the high percent of exposure to the risk factors, Iraqi cancer regis
... Show MoreThe objective of all planning research is to plan for human comfort and safety, and one of the most significant natural dangers to which humans are exposed is earthquake risk; therefore, earthquake risks must be anticipated, and with the advancement of global technology, it is possible to obtain information on earthquake hazards. GIS has been utilized extensively in the field of environmental assessment research due to its high potential, and GIS is a crucial application in seismic risk assessment. This paper examines the methodologies used in recent GIS-based seismic risk studies, their primary environmental impacts on urban areas, and the complexity of the relationship between the applied methodological approaches and the resulting env
... Show MoreThis research aim to present theoretical and philosophical framework regards topic of intellectual capital readiness in Iraqi universities. That is, by using strategic map in balanced score card of Norton and Kaplan (2004). This research discusses theoretical content for three main aspects reflect in its nature elements of intellectual capital readiness in organizations. This includes human capital readiness, information capital readiness and organizational capital readiness. To clear each element, the authors relay on mechanism to determine gape per element of intellectual capital elements.
Braces in straight bridge systems improve the lateral-torsional buckling resistance of the girders by reducing the unbraced length, while in horizontally curved and skew bridges, the braces are primary structural elements for controlling deformations by engaging adjacent girders to act as a system to resist the potentially large forces and torques caused by the curved or skewed geometry of the bridge. The cross-frames are usually designed as torsional braces, which increase the overall strength and stiffness of the individual girders by creating a girder system that translates and rotates as a unit along the bracing lines. However, when they transmit the truck’s live load forces, they can produce fatigue cracks at their connection
... Show MoreThis study aims to investigate the adequacy of composite cellular beams with lightweight reinforced concrete deck slab as a structural unit for harmonic loaded buildings. The experimental program involved three fixed-ends supported beams throughout 2140 mm. Three concrete types were included: Normal Weight Concrete (NWC), Lightweight Aggregate Concrete (LWAC), and Lightweight Fiber Reinforced Aggregate Concrete (LWACF). The considered frequencies were (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30) Hz. It was indicated that the harmonic load caused a significant influence on LWAC response (64% greater than NWC) and lattice cracks were observed, especially at 30 Hz. As for LWACF slab, no cracks appeared,