Journal of Al-Wataniya Private University
Journal of Al-Wataniya Private University is a peer-reviewed, research journal that publishes original research papers across various scientific fields. The journal aims to provide a platform for researchers to disseminate their findings to scholars in all areas of research, thereby promoting innovation and knowledge exchange. It follows a rigorous peer-review process to ensure the quality and validity of the published studies, making it a valuable resource for academics, scientists, and researchers within the scientific community. Journal of Al-Wataniya Private University (JWPU) is committed to an Open Access policy, whereby all published research is freely available to everyone through the journal’s website immediately upon publication. Readers are permitted to view, download, and cite the full texts of articles without restriction, provided that proper attribution to the source is given. Through this policy, the journal aims to enhance the dissemination of scientific knowledge, increase opportunities for knowledge exchange, and support the Open Access movement, which strengthens the impact of scientific research at both the local and global levels. Publisher: Al-Wataniya Private University Editor-in-Chief: Prof. Ahed Khezam Publication Languages: Arabic and English Publication Frequency: Biannual (two issues per year) Publication Fees: Fully free of charge. The journal does not charge any fees for submission, review, or publication. Average Time of the First Review Round: 4–6 weeks
Studying the effect of growth hormone on creatinine levels and weight in rabbits: A pilot study
Given the high rates of irresponsible misuse of growth hormone (GH) in sports for muscle mass gain and performance enhancement, it is crucial to investigate its potential side effects, particularly on renal function, which may be affected by such practices. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effect of GH administration on body weight and plasma creatinine levels in adult male rabbits. Sixteen male rabbits, 7 months old and weighing an average of 2 kg, were divided into two equal groups (n=8): an untreated control group and a treatment group injected subcutaneously with GH at a dose of 16 IU daily for 10 days. After treatment, blood samples were drawn from the heart, plasma was separated, and creatinine levels were measured. The results showed a significant increase in creatinine in the GH group compared to the control group (4.93 ± 0.27 mg/dL vs. 2.05 ± 0.17 mg/dL, p<0.05). A clear and statistically significant increase in the weights of rabbits treated after injection compared to before injection was observed: 2.7±0.35 kg versus 1.91±0.22 kg (p<0.05). This reflects the strong anabolic effect of growth hormone, especially at high doses, associated with a significant weight gain and possible renal functional changes that go beyond just an increase in muscle mass, which necessitates strict monitoring of renal indicators during its use.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Al-Wataniya Private University https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Determination of Losartan Potassium and Hydrochlorothiazide Mixture by AUC-CM and DRS1 Spectrophotometric Methods
Determination of losartan potassium LOS and hydrochlorothiazide HCTZ by two methods in raw material and tablets formulations. The first method is the area under the curve correction method (AUC-CM). The second one is the first derivative of the ratio spectra method (DRS1). The determination by (AUC-CM) was at the wavelength’s ranges (245 - 255) nm for LOS and (312 - 320) nm for HCTZ. The LOS linearity was to be between (2.00 – 48.00) µg/mL with R2 = 0.99994, while the HCTZ linearity was to be between (7.50 – 100.00) µg/mL with R2 = 0.99987. By using (DRS1), wavelengths of 237.0 nm and 270.0 nm, used for the determination of LOS and HCTZ, respectively. The LOS linearity was to be between (1.50 – 50.00) µg/mL with R2 = 0.99998, while the HCTZ linearity was to be between (1.00 – 20.00) µg/mL with R2 = 0.99996. The validation of the two methods was estimated as linearity, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), precision, accuracy, robustness, recovery and specificity. The two methods were successfully applied for the determination of LOS and HCTZ in tablets formulations in one Syrian pharmaceutical product LOTID in two doses (50/12.5 and 100/25) mg/tab. The proposed methods are not complicated, available in spectrophotometer programming, direct, and sensitive and does not require any pre- extraction process. Thus, the two methods could be ready to use in routine analysis and quality control.
Preparation and Evaluation of Topical Formulations Containing Arctium lappa L. Root Extract for the Treatment of Acne
This study aims to formulate and evaluate topical cream and toner containing Arctium lappa root extract as a promising natural alternative treatment for acne vulgaris. Acne is a common dermatological disorder associated with sebum overproduction, follicular hyperkeratinization, and cutibacterium acnes proliferation, leading to cutaneous inflammation. The active compounds were extracted from burdock roots using 70% ethanolic extraction, and then incorporated into carefully designed cream and toner formulations. Both preparations underwent comprehensive physicochemical testing to evaluate parameters including pH, appearance, viscosity, stability, and spreadability. Analysis results demonstrated that the cream exhibits skin-compatible pH (5.4) and a viscosity of 18,257 centipoise (cP), with no phase separation or particle aggregation observed following centrifugation, along with excellent spreadability characteristics. The findings highlight the efficacy of burdock root extract (Arctium lappa) as a phytochemical component, with published studies confirming its significant antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The study recommends conducting additional clinical trials to establish optimal dosage parameters and enhance the formulation's therapeutic efficacy.
Statistical Study of Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels at Students from Alwataniya Private University
Cholesterol and triglycerides are vital lipid molecules essential for fundamental bodily functions, including cell structure and energy supply. However, elevated levels of these lipids, particularly high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad cholesterol" are critical indicators for cardiovascular health, contributing to atherosclerosis. This study aimed to measure cholesterol and triglyceride levels in 33 young students from the Alwataniya Private University (November 16 & 18, 2024) and correlate them with specific risk factors. The methodology involved collecting data on age, gender, smoking, omega-3 supplement intake, body mass index (BMI), and exercise. Results indicated that these factors were significant predictors of elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. This underscores the importance of early detection of dyslipidemia and associated risk factors in young adults.
"The Role of Green Marketing Mix in Enhancing Competitive Advantage" ) Field Study on Clients of Afamia Pharmaceutical Industries Company)
This study aimed to identify the role of green marketing mix in enhancing competitive advantage and to study the relationship between the green marketing mix as an independent variable and competitive advantage as a dependent variable in Afamia Pharmaceutical Industries Company in Hama. To achieve the study objectives, the researchers designed a questionnaire that included (26) research questions to collect primary data from the study sample by distributing the questionnaire to a convenience sample of clients in pharmacies in the Hama city, where the number of questionnaires that could be analyzed reached 80 questionnaires. In the light of that, the data was collected and analyzed and hypotheses were tested using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences 22.0 SPSS, and a number of results were reached, the most important of which are, It was found that there is no significant role for green product, green promotion, green distribution in enhancing the competitive advantage, in Afamia Pharmaceutical Industries Company in Hama. It was found that green pricing has a significant role in enhancing competitive advantage in Afamia Pharmaceutical Industries Company in Hama
Matrix Factorization: A Performance Comparison of its Fundamental Methods and a Study of the Conditions for Obtaining Orthonormal Matrices with Rational Elements
This research conducts a study on matrices and matrix analysis, outlining the essential fundamental definitions required for this purpose. We provide a historical review of the majority of scholars and researchers who have studied and analyzed matrices, documenting each researcher's methodology. Furthermore, we detail the advantages and disadvantages of each method as applied in previous periods. A comparison was also conducted between QR decomposition and LU decomposition. Finally, we established the necessary conditions for obtaining normalized orthogonal matrices with rational elements.
The Impact of Digital Transformation in Job Performance Efficiency (A Field Study of Private Banks Operating in Hama Governorate)
This research aimed to determine the impact of digital transformation in job performance efficiency in a group of private banks operating in Hama Governorate, Syria. To achieve this, the researchers relied on the descriptive-analytical approach as a general research methodology. A questionnaire was designed and distributed to a purposive sample of employees in various departments at five private banks in Hama Governorate (Arab Bank, National Islamic Bank, Sham Bank, Al-Baraka Bank, and Al-Shahba Bank). The researchers used SPSS to conduct statistical descriptions and test the research hypotheses. The questionnaire was further strengthened by personal interviews. The research found a statistically significant effect between the dimensions of digital transformation (legislation and policies, technological infrastructure, and human resources) and job performance efficiency in the private banks operating in Hama Governorate, the subject of the study. The research also recommended a set of recommendations focusing on developing the technological infrastructure within the banks under study by increasing information technology investments, updating hardware and software, and supporting artificial intelligence technologies
The Impact of Exchange Rate Changes of the Syrian Pound on the Damascus Securities Exchange Index
This study aims to analyze the impact of fluctuations in the Syrian pound's exchange rate on the Damascus Securities Exchange Index during the period (2011–2023), within the context of a complex economic crisis driven by intertwined political, security, and economic factors. The significance of the research lies in its examination of exchange rate volatility and its influence on financial markets in crisis environments, through the construction of a hybrid analytical model that integrates econometric tools (unit root tests, cointegration analysis, Granger causality, and GARCH models). The study's findings indicate that the variables follow a normal distribution and exhibit temporal instability at level values before stabilizing at first differences. This supported the use of cointegration tests, which confirmed the existence of a long-term equilibrium relationship between the exchange rate and the financial index. Regression analysis revealed a statistically significant positive correlation between the two variables, while Granger causality tests identified a unidirectional causal relationship from the Damascus market index to the Syrian pound’s exchange rate—highlighting the financial market’s precedence as a leading indicator of monetary fluctuations. Based on these results, the researchers recommend adopting flexible monetary policies that respond to shifts in the financial market, developing monitoring and forecasting models based on equilibrium relationships between exchange rates and financial asset prices, and incorporating geopolitical variables into the analytical frameworks of economic policy. They also advocate for the creation of alternative financial indicators that reflect the complex reality beyond conventional models.
The Role of Digital Risk Management in Enhancing Cybersecurity "A Field Study in Private Banks in Hama Governorate"
This research aimed to study the role of digital risk management, with its various dimensions (risk identification, assessment and analysis, mitigation, monitoring and review, and communication), in enhancing cybersecurity. To achieve this objective, a field study was conducted on a group of private banks operating in Hama Governorate (Bank of Syria and Overseas, Al Baraka Bank, and Syria International Islamic Bank). The research employed a descriptive analytical approach, and a questionnaire was designed as the primary data collection tool. The research population consisted of all employees (managers and staff) within the departments related to risk management and cybersecurity at Bank of Syria and Overseas, Al Baraka Bank, and Syria International Islamic Bank in Hama Governorate. Sixty questionnaires were distributed, fully returned, and deemed valid for analysis. Among the most important findings of the research was the strong and positive impact of implementing risk management in its combined dimensions on enhancing cybersecurity in the studied banks. Furthermore, the study revealed a statistically significant and moderate positive impact of each individual dimension of risk management on enhancing cybersecurity
Evaluation of the Effect of Vibratory Compaction on the Propagation of vibrations in soil: A Comprehensive Analytical Study
Dynamic compaction by vibratory compaction is considered one of the most powerful and widely used soil improvement techniques in the practical engineering applications. However, this method generates vibrations which propagate through the surrounding soil in the form of different types of ground waves. This research presents a numerical study using the finite element method to analyze the propagation of vibrations generated by dynamic compaction using vibratory compaction. Therefore, we propose a suitable numerical model that depends on the simulation of both the compaction force and the propagation site by using the software ABAQUS. We validated the model using field measurements taken from previous studies, then we applied it to a typical example to study the propagation and damping of the vibrations caused by vibro-probe. The results of the study allow the evaluation of the amplitude of vibrations at different distances, thus, assessing the probable effects and then taking appropriate mitigation measures.
Investigating the Hypoglycemic Effect of Methylsulfonylmethane in Rabbits
Diabetes is a global health challenge, and as a chronic disease, it requires safe and effective long-term treatments. This study investigated the glucose-lowering effects of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) compared with metformin in a model of alloxan-induced diabetes. Alloxan selectively destroys pancreatic beta cells, leading to decreased insulin secretion and hyperglycemia. Four groups of rabbits (4 per group) were used: control, alloxan, metformin, and MSM groups. Fasting blood glucose levels were measured 24 hours after the end of dosing for all groups. MSM and metformin significantly reduced hyperglycemia, but MSM showed better results compared to metformin, possibly due to its protective effects on pancreatic beta cells. The study concludes that MSM may be a good therapeutic alternative or additional to established diabetes drugs such as metformin, and we recommend conducting histopathological studies on pancreatic cells to further confirm our results.
In Vitro Evaluation of the Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Capparis spinosa Using Protein Denaturation Inhibition method
In traditional medicine, many natural plant-derived compounds have been used for centuries to inhibit inflammatory pathways, often causing fewer side effects than synthetic drugs. Capparis spinosa has been traditionally used to treat various ailments; however, scientific studies on its pharmacological efficacy are limited. This study aims to assess the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of C.spinosa using the albumin denaturation inhibition method. Bioactive compounds were extracted from (flowers, roots, fruits, leaves, and seeds) using methanol. Extracts at different concentrations were tested for their ability to inhibit egg albumin denaturation. Diclofenac sodium, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, served as the positive control. The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated by calculating the percentage inhibition of protein denaturation. The results showed a concentration-dependent increase in inhibition. Notably, the flower and root extracts exhibited significantly higher anti-inflammatory activity compared to other plant parts. Moreover, the flower extract demonstrated a markedly greater inhibition rate than the positive control.
Studying the effect of mixing temperature changes on the properties and behavior of asphalt concrete
Heating hot mix asphalt (HMA) at high various temperture leads to adverse results, that negatively affected on asphalt concrete properties and pavement problems. This research offers an analytical experimental study of mechanical properties of bituminous mixtures under the influence of different temperature of mixing (160Co- 175Co - 190Co -205Co -220Co) by Marshal's method. The results showed that rising temperature of mixing gives clearly negative effects on mechanical properties of the bituminous mixtures under the effect of temperature and freezing and thawing. As for the tensile strength ratio (TSR) values, the results showed that for values above 80%, the temperature of the mixing mustn,t less (160Co) for the wear layer, and (155Co) for the base layer. So we found it to obtain asphalt concrete with specifications of resisting the changes of climate, distortions, and loads the temperature of mixing should be in the range (160-165)Co, otherwise we will get results do not meet the required specifications and reduce the design age of the road.
The Impact of the Physical Environment on Brand Love (Field Study on XO Store Customers)
This study aimed to identify the physical environment in an XO store and examine the relationship between the physical environment as an independent variable, measured through the following indicators: (scent, interior arrangement, temperature, music), and brand loyalty as a dependent variable, among XO store customers in the city of Hama. To achieve the study’s objectives, the researchers designed a questionnaire that included (25) research questions to collect primary data from a study sample of (420) individuals. In light of this, the data were collected, analysed, and hypotheses tested using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 22.0. A number of results were reached, which can be summarized as follows:There was a significant effect of all dimensions of the physical environment (smell, interior arrangement, temperature, music) on brand loyalty at the XO store, as there was a strong, direct correlation between the two variables at the XO store under study. The researchers also presented a set of recommendations to leverage the impact of the physical environment on brand loyalty at the XO store in Hama. The most prominent of these recommendations is to encourage creativity in providing elements of the physical environment in a manner that is consistent with the brand’s personality and that is appropriate for the target customers. This will enhance these customers’ loyalty to the brand and strengthen their emotional attachment to the store
The Impact of Emotional Intelligence in Team Performance (A Field Study of Private Banks Operating in Hama Governorate)
This study aimed to determine the impact of emotional intelligence of administrative leadership in team performance in private banks in Hama Governorate. To achieve this, the researchers relied on the descriptive-analytical approach as the general research methodology. A questionnaire was designed, and distributed to a Purposive sample of administrative leaders, and team members in various departments in four private banks in Hama Governorate: (National Islamic Bank, Al-Baraka, Al-Sham, and Al-Shahba). The researchers used SPSS version 25 to conduct statistical descriptions and test the research hypotheses. The questionnaire was further strengthened by personal interviews. The study found a statistically significant effect between the dimensions of emotional intelligence of administrative leadership (self-awareness, empathy, and social skills) and the performance of work teams in the Islamic banks operating in Hama Governorate, the subject of the study. The study also made a set of recommendations, most notably considering adopting the concept of emotional intelligence as a measure for teaching, training, and recruitment
Evaluating The Effectiveness Of Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) As A Tumor Marker For Detecting Prostate Cancer In A Sample Of Syrian Patients
Prostate cancer (PC) is a hormone-dependent malignant tumor often originating from epithelial cells in the prostate gland. It is the second most common cancer among men and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Its variable clinical behavior makes early detection critical to improving prognosis. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a key tumor marker used in diagnosis and follow-up. This study evaluated the PSA test’s effectiveness in detecting PC and analyzed its relationship with tumor stage, age, smoking, and body mass index (BMI). Fifty participants (25 patients and 25 healthy individuals) were included to assess diagnostic performance; correlations with clinical variables were analyzed in confirmed cancer patients only. The total PSA test showed 96% sensitivity and 88% specificity at a 4 ng/ml threshold. A significant positive correlation was found between PSA and both tumor stage and age; no significant correlation was found with smoking, and a slight inverse correlation was noted with BMI. These results suggest PSA is effective for early PC detection when used alongside complementary diagnostic tools to support clinical decision-making
Study of the Prevalence of Short Stature and Its Relationship with Nutritional Status among Schoolchildren in Hama Governorate, Syria: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study
tunting remains a significant public health concern in developing countries, especially in crisis-affected regions like Syria. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of short stature as an indicator of nutritional and developmental status among schoolchildren in Hama Governorate. A total of 201 students (101 males, 100 females), aged 10–14 years, were randomly selected. Their height and weight were accurately measured, and Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Statistical analyses (t-test, ANOVA, chi-square) were applied. Findings revealed that 37% of children were stunted—exceeding global and regional averages. No significant gender differences were observed in height, weight, or BMI, suggesting equal exposure to environmental and nutritional factors. Stunted children had the lowest mean height and weight, while overweight children had the highest, highlighting the coexistence of undernutrition and overnutrition. The study emphasizes the need for integrated interventions, including enhanced school nutrition programs, early detection systems, and community health awareness. It also recommends longitudinal research to monitor trends and assess the effectiveness of context-specific preventive and therapeutic strategies
Study on the extraction of the local Portulaca oleracea plant and evaluation of the sun protection factor (SPF)of both aqueous and ethanolic extracts.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the primary cause of skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. Due to safety concerns regarding synthetic sunscreens, interest in natural plant ingredients has increased as safe alternatives to chemical sunscreens. Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is known for its richness in phenolics and flavonoids, which possess excellent UV-absorbing properties. This study evaluated Portulaca oleracea leaf and stem extracts (aqueous and alcoholic) via UV-vis spectroscopy (200–400 nm). Sun protection factor (SPF) values ​​were calculated Using a reference method. The alcoholic leaf extract showed the highest SPF (40), followed by the aqueous leaf extract (SPF = 30). The stem extracts showed lower, but still good, activity (alcoholic: SPF = 20; aqueous: SPF = 12). The results highlight purslane's potential as a natural sunscreen ingredient, particularly in alcoholic leaf extracts. Improved formulations could provide safer and more synergistic UV protection compared to chemical filters
Voice Cloning with Deep Neural Networks: Techniques, Evaluation, Applications, and Ethical Considerations
Voice cloning has emerged as a transformative application of deep neural networks, enabling the generation of synthetic voices that closely resemble human speech. This paper provides a comprehensive review of voice cloning technologies, emphasizing the evolution from traditional text-to-speech (TTS) systems to modern deep learning-based models such as Tacotron, WaveNet, and VALL-E. We explore the architecture and components of TTS pipelines, including speaker encoders, synthesizers, and neural vocoders; and distinguish between single-speaker and multi-speaker voice cloning approaches. Real-world applications in telecommunications, education, accessibility, and entertainment are discussed, alongside critical ethical challenges such as privacy violations, misinformation, and emotional manipulation. The paper concludes with an overview of current technical limitations and future directions, including federated learning, transformer-based vocoders, and diffusion models, aimed at enhancing quality, efficiency, and ethical integrity in synthetic speech generation
Synergistic Protective Effect of Silybum Marianum Extract and Vitamin C Combination on Paracetamol-induced Hepatotoxicity in Rabbits
Objectives: Drug-induced hepatotoxicity, particularly resulting from paracetamol overdose, is a major cause of acute liver injury. Silybum Marianum plant has a well-known hepatoprotective effect due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin C has very strong antioxidant properties. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the protective effect of Silybum Marianum extract and vitamin C combination on paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in rabbits. Materials and Methods: 16 male rabbits were divided into 4 groups (n = 4 each): (1) Control group (CTRL), (2) diseased group (PARA), (3) first treatment group (SLM), and (4) second treatment group (combination) (SLM+VITC). Hepatotoxicity was assessed by measuring serum ALT and AST levels and liver histopathology. Results: Paracetamol caused significant increase in ALT and AST compared to control group (p<0.05). Treatment with the extract alone improved the histological picture and decreased liver enzymes, while the combination treatment showed a greater decrease in enzymes levels. Conclusion: The proposed combination treatment provided greater hepatoprotection compared to the extract alone, with a greater decrease in liver enzymes, indicating a synergetic effect
The search for new sustainable building materials is a major focus in civil engineering. Recent research trends include numerous attempts to add glass powder to concrete mixes, but the results of these studies have varied, necessitating further investigation. This research aims to develop a new methodology for studying the effect of glass powder on mortar properties, specifically its strength and workability. The study focuses on the impact of partially replacing cement with ground glass powder on concrete's compressive and flexural strength. Several mixes, with varying percentages of glass powder (5%, 10%, 20%, and 30%), were prepared and compared to a reference sample without glass. Tests were conducted at 7 and 28 days. The results showed a decrease in compressive strength at the 5% and 10% replacement levels due to a reduction in the amount of active cement and the absorption of some mixing water by the glass, which weakened the hydration reactions. At 20%, the strength improved slightly due to the onset of the pozzolanic reaction, but the values remained lower than those of the reference sample. Similarly, flexural strength initially decreased at 5% and then gradually increased at 10% and 20% due to improved internal distribution and the emergence of the pozzolanic reaction of the glass with hydration products.
Molecular modeling study of the inhibition effect of a group of Alkaloids on AchE enzyme to treat Alzheimer’s disease
Objective: Procedure a molecular modeling study on a group of Alkaloids that have an inhibition effect on AchE enzyme in the brain of Alzheimer’ s patient. Materials and Methods: molecular modeling was done by iGemdock software using the standard and accurate docking. It required downloading the structure of the target enzyme AchE which found in the brain of Alzheimer patient from the Protein Data Bank and then the chemical compound formuls for 101 alkaloids compound were collected from the Pubchem. The formulas were drawn with the Chemdraw program, and the docking process was completed between the target enzyme AchE and the studied compounds.In addition, applied Lapinski and Weber’s rules to the group of studied compounds in order to predict the bioavailability of these compounds. Data for these two rules were collected from the pubchem website. Results: the results showed that 20 compounds achieved binding energy higher than the standard compound Huperzine A. These results indicate that it can be suggested as AchE inhibitors in treatment plans for Alzheimer’s patient
The Effect of Using an Impermeable Blanket on the Uplift pressure Under Concrete Dams
In this research paper, we have studied the effect of using an impermeable blanket and compare it with the usage of cutoffs on the uplift pressure under concrete dams. This comparison has been conducted numerically, by using the element method, with the help of the Groundwater Modeling System software program. The length of the impermeable blanket has been modified according to length of the dam base, for different values of length of cutoffs. It has been found that the existence an impermeable blanket with two cutoffs doesn't lead to decreasing the uplift pressure force in comparison with the state of the non-existence of an impermeable blanket. Also, it has been concluded that using an impermeable blanket with one single cutoff at the beginning of the dam leads to decreasing the uplift pressure force by 17% in comparison with the state of the non-existence of the an impermeable blanket, if the length of blanket is larger than the depth of the front cutoff.
Effects of Exam Stress on Body Mass Index in medical students of Al-Wataniya Private University
Stress refers to the body's response to overwhelming pressures that exceed one's capacity to manage various demands. Stress leads to several physiological disorders; therefore, this study investigates the effect of exam stress on plasma levels of Cortisol and Body Mass Index (BMI), among 40 medical students at Al-Wataniya Private University. These parameters were assessed 11 weeks prior to the final exams (Pre-exams) and on the day of exams (during exams). Cortisol was increased significantly during-exams compared to pre-exams period, which could potentially increase the risk of metabolic diseases. While BMI distribution was close in both periods, suggesting stress-BMI relationship may depend on individual stress coping mechanisms, and lifestyle of student
APPROXIMATION OF PERIODIC FUNCTIONS BY FEJER SUM AND DE LA VALLEE POUSSIN SUMS
In this paper, we establish several results concerning the approximation of periodic functions by Fejér and de la Vallée Poussin means in Lebesgue spaces L_2π^p.The obtained estimates are expressed in terms of function for L_2 and the second-order modulus of continuity. The approximation of periodic functions by trigonometric polynomials plays a central role in Fourier analysis. Among the classical summation methods, Fejér sums and de la Vallée-Poussin sums provide powerful tools for improving the convergence behavior of Fourier series. In this work, we investigate the approximation of -periodic functions in spaces L_2by these two summation methods. Special attention is given to the relationship between the smoothness of the function, measured via the second-order modulus of continuity, and the rate of approximation. Our results contribute to a clearer understanding of how summability methods refine Fourier approximation and provide effective tools for both theoretical and applied analysis
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A Comparative Study of the Nephroprotective Effects of Vildagliptin and Sitagliptin against Gentamicin-induced Nephrotoxicity in Rabbits
Objectives: This study aimed to compare the nephroprotective effects of sitagliptin and vildagliptin on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rabbits. Materials and Methods: We divided 12 rabbits into four groups (3 per group): 1- Control group (saline only), 2- Diseased group (gentamicin only), 3- Treatment group I (sitagliptin + gentamicin), and 4- Treatment group II (vildagliptin + gentamicin). Serum creatinine was measured, and histopathological study was conducted. Results: Gentamicin significantly elevated serum creatinine and induced inflammation and edema in renal cells. While both sitagliptin and vildagliptin mitigated nephrotoxicity, vildagliptin demonstrated better results, with significantly lower creatinine levels (p=0.000) and better renal histological improvement. Conclusions: Vildagliptin exhibits stronger nephroprotective effects than sitagliptin against gentamicin-induced renal injury, likely due to its stronger anti-inflammatory properties. These results suggest that vildagliptin is preferable for patients at high risk of drug-induced nephrotoxicity, particularly those with diabetes.
A Statistical Study on the Prevalence and Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia in the Syrian Community
Fibromyalgia syndrome is a musculoskeletal disorder that causes chronic pain, muscle spasms, and discomfort in the connective tissues. The pain is often widespread and is accompanied by severe fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory issues, and mood fluctuations. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and diagnosis of fibromyalgia in the Syrian community through a statistical analysis involving 452 participants of various ages and genders, using diagnostic tools approved by the American College of Rheumatology. The results showed a fibromyalgia prevalence rate of 17.5%, with a higher rate among women (19.0%) compared to men (14.2%), though this difference was not statistically significant. Symptom severity increased with age, with those over 50 years old reporting the highest pain levels. There was a strong correlation between the Widespread Pain Index (WPI) and Symptom Severity Score (SSS), indicating that higher pain levels were associated with more severe accompanying symptoms. Additionally, non-working individuals were more likely to be affected than those employed, suggesting a role for social factors and physical activity in disease risk. These findings highlight the need to raise public and medical awareness about fibromyalgia and to develop comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that address psychological and social aspects alongside medical management, with an emphasis on physical activity and psychological support to improve patients’ quality of life.
The impact of applying the food safety compliance standard (ISO 22000) in achieving competitive advantage “A case study of Alo Chicken Restaurant in Hama Governorate”
The fierce competition in the markets in our current era is no longer hidden from anyone. As organizations always seek to distinguish themselves and be unique from their competitors, so today we see a race between organizations, the service patterns of which constitute the largest part, including restaurants, which are considered one of the types of these organizations seeking excellence in this field, and a number of them are convinced of the importance of applying the philosophy and approach of total quality management in their daily operations, and one of the important standards in the field of restaurants is the standard of compliance to food safety ISO 22000. Therefore, this study aimed to study the relationship between the application of the standard of commitment to food safety and competitive advantage in its dimensions (cost, quality) within the (Allo Chicken) restaurant in Hama Governorate, and the study community consisted of managers, accountants and employees of administrative levels, and the researcher relied on determining the sample size on the comprehensive enumeration method due to the small size of the community, as the number of questionnaires reached (30). The researcher concluded that there is a strong positive moral correlation between the application of the standard of compliance to food safety and each of the competitive advantage, cost and quality.
Bioequivalence study on Some Commercially Available Paracetamol Tablets with the innovator product: In vitro dissolution study
Dissolution testing is a crucial in vitro technique in the formulation and development of pharmaceutical dosage forms. Tablets, a common dosage form, consist of a mixture of active ingredient(s), usually in powder form, with or without excipients. Acetaminophen is one of the most widely used drugs in the world. Numerous brands of acetaminophen are available commercially which are widely considered bioequivalent. The aim of the current study was to conduct a dissolution test on various products of acetaminophen tablets to assess their bioequivalence. Five different generic formulations of 500 mg paracetamol tablets from different manufacturers were selected and tested for dissolution in a 5.8 pH phosphate buffer for 30 minutes. Results were compared to those obtained from the reference product using a USP Type II dissolution testing apparatus. The dissolution testing revealed that products A, B, C, D, and E have dissolution rates of 96%, 103%, 114%, 111% and 94%, respectively, in comparison to the brand Panadol, which dissolved at 99% within 30 minutes. All tested tablets were within the pharmacopoeia criteria
Application of Net Present Value as an Alternative to Accounting Measurement on Predicting the Probability of Bank Loans Default (A Case Study)
This research aims to apply net present value as an alternative to accounting measurement on predicting the probability of bank loans default, to achieve this aim, the researcher the researcher carried out a practical application on a medium-term loan contract presented by a Syrian private commercial bank to a Syrian private industrial company in the textile industry in Aleppo, and this contract is a loan contract to purchase a machine in installments against equal monthly payments. The following results were reached: 1- The net present value alternative is the most consistent alternative with the study of companies' ability to pay their future obligations, especially bank loans. 2- There is an effect of applying an alternative net present value to measure future cash flows on predicting the probability of default in repaying bank loans granted to companies
Copyright (c) 2023 Journal of Al-Wataniya Private University https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0