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26 pages, 364 KiB  
Article
The Role of Sport in Physical Education in Finland and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq—Primary School Teachers’ Reflections
by Joonas Kalari, Warhel Asim Mohammed, Golaleh Makrooni and Pål Lagestad
Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15070919 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 637
Abstract
There is a lack of studies comparing PE teachers’ reflections on the role of sport in different regions. Using Kirk’s conceptualization of the role of sport, this qualitative comparative study aimed to explore and compare fifth-grade physical education (PE) teachers’ perceptions and experiences [...] Read more.
There is a lack of studies comparing PE teachers’ reflections on the role of sport in different regions. Using Kirk’s conceptualization of the role of sport, this qualitative comparative study aimed to explore and compare fifth-grade physical education (PE) teachers’ perceptions and experiences related to PE teaching in Finland and in the Kurdistan region of Iraq (KRI). In-depth interviews were conducted with eight Finnish and six KRI teachers, and the data were analyzed using the NVivo qualitative analysis program. The results showed that the Finnish teachers’ reflections were classified into four themes: joy and competence rather than sport, sport and curriculum, the status of sport in society and prerequisites for physical activities and sport. The KRI teachers’ reflections were also classified into four themes: sport as an aim in PE, the teacher as a model and leader of the sport, sport raising one’s status and PE being not only about sport. The role of sport in PE was recognized by teachers from both regions, although from different perspectives. The Finnish teachers made a clear distinction between PE and sport. The KRI teachers perceived PE and sport almost as one, in the belief that PE primarily teaches pupils about sport and that sport itself is a central goal. Both groups of teachers aimed to enhance their pupils’ well-being and encourage a physically active lifestyle through PE. The KRI teachers believed that engaging students in sports would promote these aims, whereas Finnish teachers saw sport as just one of many components needed to achieve these objectives. The Finnish teachers emphasized the national PE curriculum guiding their work, while the KRI teachers had no standardized PE curriculum in primary school. This comparative study highlights the importance of implementing a well-structured PE curriculum in primary schools in the KRI. Further studies should examine how the implementation of such a curriculum will affect KRI teachers’ teaching and the role of sport in PE. Full article
12 pages, 3253 KiB  
Article
Kris Martin: Altar/Altering Perspectives
by Karen Shelby
Arts 2024, 13(6), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/arts13060179 - 5 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1378
Abstract
Kris Martin: Altar/Altering Perspectives Flemish artist Kris Martin’s work exists in relationship to the city of Ghent and his reflection on that city’s medieval past. His pieces that implicitly engage with the Ghent Altarpiece by Hubert and Jan van Eyck question the position [...] Read more.
Kris Martin: Altar/Altering Perspectives Flemish artist Kris Martin’s work exists in relationship to the city of Ghent and his reflection on that city’s medieval past. His pieces that implicitly engage with the Ghent Altarpiece by Hubert and Jan van Eyck question the position of human beings in both physical and subjective relationships to works of art. They invite viewers, particularly residents of Ghent, to participate in a new narrative of Ghent, one that is framed, sometimes literally, by the layers of Romanesque and Gothic art and architecture and the symbolism and visual language of Flemish Christianity. They reveal his baroque interest in bringing together tradition and a contemporary conceptual ideology and fall somewhere between the theatricality of the carnival and the artificiality of the spectacle. While a few pieces pointedly reference a Flemish Catholic ideology, the medieval manipulation of the public and the direct iconography are missing. Through his manipulation of scale and placement in non-traditional locations, the pieces are open to new readings beyond the emotive and didactic. But, much in the tradition of the Northern Renaissance, they engage the viewer intellectually and ask for introspection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flemish Art: Past and Present)
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22 pages, 5658 KiB  
Article
Investigating Hydrological Drought Characteristics in Northeastern Thailand in CMIP5 Climate Change Scenarios
by Sornsawan Chatklang, Piyapong Tongdeenok and Naruemol Kaewjampa
Atmosphere 2024, 15(9), 1136; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15091136 - 19 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2004
Abstract
In this study, we analyzed the predictions of hydrological droughts in the Lam Chiang Kri Watershed (LCKW) by using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and streamflow data for 2010–2021. The objective was to assess the streamflow drought index (SDI) for 5-, [...] Read more.
In this study, we analyzed the predictions of hydrological droughts in the Lam Chiang Kri Watershed (LCKW) by using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and streamflow data for 2010–2021. The objective was to assess the streamflow drought index (SDI) for 5-, 10-, 25-, and 50-year return periods (RPs) in 2029 and 2039 in two representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios: the moderate climate change scenario (RCP 4.5) and the high-emission scenario (RCP 8.5). The SWAT model showed high accuracy (R2 = 0.82, NSE = 0.78). In RCP4.5, streamflow is projected to increase by 34.74% for 2029 and 18.74% for 2039, while in RCP8.5, a 37.06% decrease is expected for 2029 and 55.84% for 2039. A historical analysis indicated that there were frequent short-term droughts according to SDI-3 (3-month-period index), particularly from 2014 to 2015 and 2020 to 2021, and severe droughts according to SDI-6 (6-month-period index) in 2015 and 2020. The RCP8.5 projections indicate worsening drought conditions, with critical periods from April to June. A wavelet analysis showed that there is a significant risk of severe hydrological drought in the LCKW. Drought characteristic analysis indicated that high-intensity events occur with low frequency in the 50-year RP. Conversely, high-frequency droughts with lower intensity are observed in RPs of less than 50 years. The results of this study highlight an increase in severe drought risk in high emission scenarios, emphasizing the need for water management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drought Monitoring, Prediction and Impacts)
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20 pages, 1305 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Impact of the Digital Economy on Carbon Emission Reduction and Its Spatial Spillover Effect—The Case of Eastern Coastal Cities in China
by Juanjuan Zhong, Ye Duan, Caizhi Sun and Hongye Wang
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2024, 13(8), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi13080293 - 18 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1683
Abstract
The expansion of the digital economy is crucial for halting climate change, as carbon emissions from urban energy use contribute significantly to global warming. This study uses the Difference-in-Differences Model and the Spatial Durbin Model determine whether the digital economy may support the [...] Read more.
The expansion of the digital economy is crucial for halting climate change, as carbon emissions from urban energy use contribute significantly to global warming. This study uses the Difference-in-Differences Model and the Spatial Durbin Model determine whether the digital economy may support the development of reducing carbon emissions and its geographic spillover effects in Chinese cities on the east coast. In addition, it looks more closely at the effects of lowering carbon emissions in space by separating them into direct, indirect, and spatial impact parts. The findings show that (1) from 2012 to 2021, the digital economy favored carbon emission reductions in China’s eastern coastline cities, as supported by the robustness test. (2) The link between digital economy growth and carbon emissions is highly variable, with smart city development and urban agglomeration expansion both cutting city carbon emissions considerably. Successful digital economy strategies can lower CO2 emissions from nearby cities. (3) Eastern coastal cities have a considerable spatial spillover impact, and the digital economy mitigates local energy consumption and carbon emissions while simultaneously enhancing environmental quality in nearby urban areas. This analysis proposes that the peak carbon and carbon neutrality targets can be met by increasing the digital economy and enhancing regional environmental governance cooperation. Full article
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38 pages, 9435 KiB  
Article
Mapping the Landscape of Key Performance and Key Risk Indicators in Business: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis
by Ștefan Ionescu, Gabriel Dumitrescu, Corina Ioanăș and Camelia Delcea
Risks 2024, 12(8), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/risks12080125 - 6 Aug 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5094
Abstract
Our study investigates the relevance and application of key performance indicators (KPIs) and key risk indicators (KRIs) in business management from 1992 to 2023 through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis performed in RStudio using the Bibliometrix platform and in VOSviewer. Utilizing data from the [...] Read more.
Our study investigates the relevance and application of key performance indicators (KPIs) and key risk indicators (KRIs) in business management from 1992 to 2023 through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis performed in RStudio using the Bibliometrix platform and in VOSviewer. Utilizing data from the Web of Science database, we identify trends, key themes, and influential research in this domain, observing an annual growth rate of 17.76%. Our analyses include the top 10 most globally cited documents, word clouds based on authors’ keywords and Keywords Plus, clustering by coupling, co-occurrence networks, and factorial analysis. Our findings reveal a significant increase in research interest post-2004, with sustainability and corporate social responsibility emerging as central themes. We confirm positive correlations between KPIs, improved organizational performance, and effective risk management via KRIs. This research underscores the importance of international collaboration and diverse thematic exploration in advancing the field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Financial Analysis, Corporate Finance and Risk Management)
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32 pages, 13974 KiB  
Article
Integrating Remote Sensing Techniques and Meteorological Data to Assess the Ideal Irrigation System Performance Scenarios for Improving Crop Productivity
by Heman Abdulkhaleq A. Gaznayee, Sara H. Zaki, Ayad M. Fadhil Al-Quraishi, Payman Hussein Aliehsan, Kawa K. Hakzi, Hawar Abdulrzaq S. Razvanchy, Michel Riksen and Karrar Mahdi
Water 2023, 15(8), 1605; https://doi.org/10.3390/w15081605 - 20 Apr 2023
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5890
Abstract
To increase agricultural productivity and ensure food security, it is important to understand the reasons for variations in irrigation over time. However, researchers often avoid investigating water productivity due to data availability challenges. This study aimed to assess the performance of the irrigation [...] Read more.
To increase agricultural productivity and ensure food security, it is important to understand the reasons for variations in irrigation over time. However, researchers often avoid investigating water productivity due to data availability challenges. This study aimed to assess the performance of the irrigation system for winter wheat crops using a high-resolution satellite, Sentinel 2 A/B, combined with meteorological data and Google Earth Engine (GEE)-based remote sensing techniques. The study area is located north of Erbil city in the Kurdistan region of Iraq (KRI) and consists of 143 farmer-owned center pivots. This study also aimed to analyze the spatiotemporal variation of key variables (Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Precipitation (mm), Evapotranspiration (ETo), Crop evapotranspiration (ETc), and Irrigation (Hours), during the wheat-growing winter season in the drought year 2021 to understand the reasons for the variance in field performance. The finding revealed that water usage fluctuated significantly across the seasons, while yield gradually increased from the 2021 winter season. In addition, the study revealed a notable correlation between soil moisture based on the (NDMI) and vegetation cover based on the (NDVI), and the increase in yield productivity and reduction in the yield gap, specifically during the middle of the growing season (March and April). Integrating remote sensing with meteorological data in supplementary irrigation systems can improve agriculture and water resource management by boosting yields, improving crop quality, decreasing water consumption, and minimizing environmental impacts. This innovative technique can potentially enhance food security and promote environmental sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Management for Climate Smart Agriculture)
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12 pages, 246 KiB  
Article
Organizational Challenges in Healthcare Services Providers for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Considering Personnel Turnover Rate
by Sayyed Ali Samadi, Cemal A. Biçak, Nigar Osman and Barez Abdalla
Brain Sci. 2023, 13(4), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci13040544 - 24 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1950
Abstract
The organizational strategy and environment of the healthcare systems influence the turnover rate among healthcare provider personnel. These critical factors have received scant attention in the literature and particularly in the healthcare systems of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) as one low-income [...] Read more.
The organizational strategy and environment of the healthcare systems influence the turnover rate among healthcare provider personnel. These critical factors have received scant attention in the literature and particularly in the healthcare systems of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) as one low-income country with a lack of infrastructural health provision foundations. In this cross-sectional study with qualitative synthesis, the turnover rate of a population consisting of 115 (85 “74%” rehabilitation and training personnel) members of a daycare center for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during eight years in the city of Erbil was considered. The aim was to understand the organizational strategy and its impacts on the personnel turnover rate, particularly among healthcare providers. The analysis was conducted utilizing collective data over an eight-year period of service provisions. A qualitative methodological approach was adopted to understand the different aspects of turnover among the staff. The finding indicated a general turnover rate of 87% for the entire personnel and 72% for the rehabilitation and training service providers. This rate imposes considerable costs on the system. Interview analysis also yields supporting evidence for the desire of the staff to change jobs and the lack of understanding of the turnover among system authoritarians resulting in unpredictable changes and staff displacement. Further investigations are needed to understand different contributing factors to imposed or desired turnover rates among healthcare providers in KRI. The turnover over the years has imposed different challenges for the center where the data was collected and imposes unwanted negative impacts on healthcare organizations. Full article
18 pages, 729 KiB  
Article
Perspectives on the Impact of E-Learning Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Pandemic—The Case of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
by Dler O. Hasan, Aso M. Aladdin, Azad Arif Hama Amin, Tarik A. Rashid, Yossra H. Ali, Mahmood Al-Bahri, Jafar Majidpour, Ioan Batrancea and Ema Speranta Masca
Sustainability 2023, 15(5), 4400; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15054400 - 1 Mar 2023
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3818
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected global patterns, and the period of the declared virus pandemic has had a negative influence on all aspects of life. This research focuses on categorizing and empirically investigating the role of digital platforms in learning and business processes [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected global patterns, and the period of the declared virus pandemic has had a negative influence on all aspects of life. This research focuses on categorizing and empirically investigating the role of digital platforms in learning and business processes during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. The main purpose of this paper is to investigate to what extent the use of electronic learning (EL) has been boosted by COVID-19’s spread, and EL’s effectiveness on the sustainable development of electronic commerce due to the demand for a variety of electronic devices. For this purpose, the information has been collected through an online questionnaire applied to 430 participants from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). The results indicate that participant usage and skills with electronic devices and online software programs are increasing, as the ratio indicated a level of 68% for both genders. Thus, the significance of EL concerning electronic commercial enterprises has been openly acknowledged and influenced by numerous factors. In addition, several suggestions and steps to be undertaken by the government are highlighted. Finally, this research mentions the current limitations of EL and suggests future works to build sustainable online experiences. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue SMEs and EU Regional Development)
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26 pages, 3052 KiB  
Article
A New Reciprocal Weibull Extension for Modeling Extreme Values with Risk Analysis under Insurance Data
by Haitham M. Yousof, Yusra Tashkandy, Walid Emam, M. Masoom Ali and Mohamed Ibrahim
Mathematics 2023, 11(4), 966; https://doi.org/10.3390/math11040966 - 13 Feb 2023
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 2194
Abstract
Probability-based distributions might be able to explain risk exposure well. Usually, one number, or at the very least, a limited number of numbers called the key risk indicators (KRIs), are used to describe the level of risk exposure. These risk exposure values, which [...] Read more.
Probability-based distributions might be able to explain risk exposure well. Usually, one number, or at the very least, a limited number of numbers called the key risk indicators (KRIs), are used to describe the level of risk exposure. These risk exposure values, which are undeniably the outcome of a specific model, are frequently referred to as essential critical risk indicators. Five key risk indicators, including value-at-risk, tail variance, tail-value-at-risk, and tail mean-variance, were also used for describing the risk exposure under the reinsurance revenues data. These measurements were created for the proposed model; hence, this paper presents a novel distribution for this purpose. Relevant statistical properties are derived, including the generating function, ordinary moments, and incomplete moments. Special attention is devoted to the applicability of the new model under extreme data sets. Three applications to real data show the usefulness and adaptability of the proposed model. The new model proved its superiority against many well-known related models. Five key risk indicators are employed for analyzing the risk level under the reinsurance revenues dataset. An application is provided along with its relevant numerical analysis and panels. Some useful results are identified and highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances and Applications of Extreme Value Theory)
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14 pages, 476 KiB  
Article
Determination of Abraham Model Solute Descriptors for 62 Additional C10 through C13 Methyl- and Ethyl-Branched Alkanes
by Ramya Motati and William E. Acree
Liquids 2023, 3(1), 118-131; https://doi.org/10.3390/liquids3010010 - 1 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3337
Abstract
Abraham model solute descriptors are reported for the first time for 62 additional C10 through C13 methyl- and ethyl-branched alkanes. The numerical values were determined using published gas chromatographic retention Kováts retention indices for 157 alkane solutes eluted from a squalane [...] Read more.
Abraham model solute descriptors are reported for the first time for 62 additional C10 through C13 methyl- and ethyl-branched alkanes. The numerical values were determined using published gas chromatographic retention Kováts retention indices for 157 alkane solutes eluted from a squalane stationary phase column. The 95 alkane solutes that have known descriptor values were used to construct the Abraham model KRI versus L-solute descriptor correlation needed in our calculations. The calculated solute descriptors can be used in conjunction with previously published Abraham model correlations to predict a wide range of important physico-chemical and biological properties. The predictive computations are illustrated by estimating the air-to-polydimethylsiloxane partition coefficient for each of the 157 alkane solutes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Solutions and Liquid Mixtures Research)
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12 pages, 289 KiB  
Article
Job Burnout and Job Satisfaction among Healthcare Service Providers in a Daycare Center for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Low-Resource Settings
by Sayyed Ali Samadi, Cemal A. Biçak, Nigar Osman, Barez Abdalla and Amir Abdullah
Brain Sci. 2023, 13(2), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci13020251 - 1 Feb 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4103
Abstract
Job satisfaction and burnout are components of job morale. In general, and among healthcare provider personnel, these are psychological factors of the job and under the influence of different conditions and the organizational management of the healthcare systems. Both job burnout and job [...] Read more.
Job satisfaction and burnout are components of job morale. In general, and among healthcare provider personnel, these are psychological factors of the job and under the influence of different conditions and the organizational management of the healthcare systems. Both job burnout and job satisfaction among healthcare service providers have received scant attention in the literature, particularly in the healthcare systems of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) as one low- or middle-income country (LMIC). The burnout rate and job satisfaction in a daycare center for children with autism spectrum disorders were reviewed and measured using a sample consisting of 34 employees from three different sections. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Third Edition (MBI-3) and the Job Descriptive Index (JDI) were used. The relationships between the two scales and their consisting factors were examined using Pearson Correlation and Chi-square test to understand the correlation and levels of significant difference between the expected and the observed frequencies. There was a significant negative correlation between job burnout and satisfaction with the job and some significant correlations between the factors of the scales. Lower levels of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization factors of the burnout scale were statistically correlated. It was shown that the personnel were mainly satisfied with their jobs through their choices in the four parts of the job satisfaction scale. Further investigations are needed to understand different contributing factors to job satisfaction and burnout among healthcare providers in KRI. The current study might highlight the importance of understanding the healthcare providers’ perspectives on their careers. Full article
23 pages, 755 KiB  
Article
Variation in Shoot, Peduncle and Fruit Growth of Lagenaria siceraria Landraces
by Lungelo Given Buthelezi, Sydney Mavengahama, Julia Sibiya and Nontuthuko Rosemary Ntuli
Plants 2023, 12(3), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12030532 - 24 Jan 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2562
Abstract
Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standley is a prominent food source as almost all its plant parts are edible. However, no studies have recorded the changes in shoots, peduncles and fruits during its growth. Hence, this study aimed to record changes in shoot traits and [...] Read more.
Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standley is a prominent food source as almost all its plant parts are edible. However, no studies have recorded the changes in shoots, peduncles and fruits during its growth. Hence, this study aimed to record changes in shoot traits and relate the peduncle to the fruit traits of L. siceraria landraces across different growth stages. Changes in shoots, peduncles and fruits during growth were compared within and among landraces using analysis of variance, correlation, principal component analysis, cluster analysis and heritability estimates. Almost all landraces had harvestable shoots at 42 days after sowing. Peduncles became shorter and wider as the fruits elongated. Shoots, peduncles and fruits correlated positively with each other. The informative principal components had a total variability of 84.488%, with a major contribution from shoot traits. The biplot and dendrogram clustered landraces with similar growth habits and the harvestable shoot and fruit attributes into three clusters, but KRI and NSRC formed singlets. Shoot width (60.2%) and peduncle length (55.2%) had high heritability estimates. The general low heritability estimates and genetic advances indicated the presence of non-additive gene action. This study is the first report on changes in harvested shoots and the relationship between peduncles and fruits during growth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Development and Morphogenesis)
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7 pages, 239 KiB  
Article
Risk Profile of Keratoconus among Secondary School Students in the West Region of Cameroon
by Enowntai Nkongho Ayukotang, Vanessa Raquel Moodley and Khathutshelo Percy Mashige
Vision 2023, 7(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/vision7010002 - 23 Dec 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2166
Abstract
This study determined the risk factors of keratoconus (KC) among secondary school students in the West Region of Cameroon. A stratified, random sampling technique was used to select the 3015 secondary school students, 8 years and older, within the West Region of Cameroon. [...] Read more.
This study determined the risk factors of keratoconus (KC) among secondary school students in the West Region of Cameroon. A stratified, random sampling technique was used to select the 3015 secondary school students, 8 years and older, within the West Region of Cameroon. Selected school students completed the validated Keratoconus Risk Investigative Survey (KRIS) and a structured demographic questionnaire to determine the risk profile of KC. Descriptive analysis, logistic regression and p-values were used to provide an overview of the demographic findings and the risk factors of KC. Estimates were made as the proportion of affected school students and presented with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the association between KC and the independent predictors that were found significant in the univariate analysis. The ages of the majority (93.2%) of students ranged from eight years to 18 years (mean = 13.18 ± years) and were mostly female (59.7%). Gender (OR 2.024, p < 0.001), eye rubbing (OR 3.615, p < 0.001), exposure to sunlight (OR 2.735, p < 0.001), blood relations with KC (OR 41.819, p < 0.001) and allergic experience (OR 1.070, p < 0.001) were considered. Eye rubbing was the most significant risk factor of keratoconus followed by refractive error, allergic experiences and sunlight exposure. These findings support the evidence that the etiology of KC is multifactorial, with eye rubbing being the most significant factor in this cohort. There is a need to address eye rubbing among students to minimize the risk of KC. Furthermore, 34.46% of students in Cameroon were at risk of developing KC. Hence the risk profile is that one engages in eye rubbing, has a family member with KC, spends more than eight hours per week in the sun and is prone to allergies. It will therefore be prudent for these risk factors for keratoconus to be included in the school health education programs. Full article
31 pages, 6231 KiB  
Article
An Integrated Approach to Map the Impact of Climate Change on the Distributions of Crataegus azarolus and Crataegus monogyna in Kurdistan Region, Iraq
by Kalthum O. Radha and Nabaz R. Khwarahm
Sustainability 2022, 14(21), 14621; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142114621 - 7 Nov 2022
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 3806
Abstract
The hawthorns Crataegus azarolus L. and Crataegus monogyna Jacq are two ecologically and medicinally important endemic tree species that occur only in forests of oak in the mountain ranges of the Kurdistan region of Iraq (KRI). These species have been degrading across the [...] Read more.
The hawthorns Crataegus azarolus L. and Crataegus monogyna Jacq are two ecologically and medicinally important endemic tree species that occur only in forests of oak in the mountain ranges of the Kurdistan region of Iraq (KRI). These species have been degrading across the mountain ranges at an alarming pace due to climate-related factors (e.g., wildfire events and drought) and anthropogenic drivers. Nevertheless, there is a gap in understanding their distributions today and in the future under a changing climate in Iraq. To address the species’ knowledge gap and thus establish a baseline for a future management and conservation strategy, this study used field observation records, species distribution modeling integrated with GIS techniques, and relevant environmental predictors to (i) estimate the species’ potential distributions and map their current known distributions across unsurveyed areas; (ii) model the species’ possible response under several scenarios for a weather change in the future; (iii) map the species’ overlap ranges and the direction of the distributions. Results suggest that under two global climatic models (GCMs), BCC-CSM2-MR and CNRM-CM6-1, the overall habitat expansion magnitude for the two species would be less than the overall habitat reduction magnitude. For C. azarolus, the habitat range would contract by 3714.64 km2 (7.20%) and 3550.47 km2 (6.89%), whereas it would expand by 2415.90 km2 (4.68%) and 1627.76 km2 (3.16%) for the GCMs, respectively. Modeling also demonstrated a similar pattern for C. monogyna. The species overlap by 7626.53 km2 (14.80%) and 7351.45 km2 (14.27%) for the two GCMs. The two species’ habitat ranges would contract significantly due to the changing climate. The direction of the species’ potential distribution would be mostly toward the KRI’s east and southeast mountain forests. Our results, for the first time, provide new data on the species’ present and future distributions and outline the advantages of distribution modeling combined with geospatial techniques in areas where species data are limited, such as Iraq. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainability, Biodiversity and Conservation)
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13 pages, 564 KiB  
Review
The Challenges of Establishing Healthcare Services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: The Case of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq—Report from the Field
by Sayyed Ali Samadi
Brain Sci. 2022, 12(11), 1433; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci12111433 - 25 Oct 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2816
Abstract
The present report from the field tries to present challenges associated with establishing healthcare services for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in a low- and middle-income area. The given case that has been highlighted is establishing daycare services focusing on rehabilitation and [...] Read more.
The present report from the field tries to present challenges associated with establishing healthcare services for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in a low- and middle-income area. The given case that has been highlighted is establishing daycare services focusing on rehabilitation and training services for individuals with ASD, and their caregivers and family members, in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Based on my experience, the associated challenges are divided into three primary levels: personal, professional, and organizational. The report highlights the importance of understanding the challenges associated with establishing healthcare services with the desire to put them under control. Plus, understanding the cultural aspects of the healthcare services for individuals with ASD experiences to address the issues at each level shared. It is concluded in the final part of the report that the key to establishing healthcare quality is to understand attitudes toward healthcare at the personal, professional, and organizational levels. This attitude determines the expectation from the services and defines assistance-seeking behaviors. Results offer insight for stakeholders in the healthcare field, allowing for a better understanding and improvement of availability and access to quality-driven healthcare services. A pre- and in-service training approach is practiced to address the associated challenges of establishing healthcare services at the personal level in KRI. A similar policy might be applicable in other LMICs, where there is a lack of professional and skillful healthcare service providers. Full article
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