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Green hydrogen production from renewable energy sources has emerged as a promising solution towards achieving the global target of net-zero emissions by 2050. The sultanate of Oman is among the countries that have a significant green hydrogen potential, as evident by the national target of producing one million tons of green hydrogen by 2030. This paper aims to study the techno-economic viability of integrating a floating solar photovoltaic (FPV) system with hydrogen energy storage for electricity generation in Oman. The integration of this system is modelled and simulated using HOMER Pro software to determine the optimum component sizes with the minimum cost of energy (COE). While the FPV system is designed and simulated using PVsyst software. The simulated system incorporates a 26.57 MWp FPV system, 22 MW PEM electrolyser, 13 MW PEM fuel cell, 60,000 kg hydrogen tank and 12.4 MW converter and generates 65.5 GWh of clean electricity annually. The system produces 826,624 kg of green hydrogen annually, significantly contributing to Oman's green hydrogen economy. The simulation results reveal a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of $0.97/kWh and a levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) of $29.7/kg. The relatively high LCOH is attributed to the utilisation of large-scale hydrogen energy storage components, which results in a higher initial cost of the system. However, the system demonstrated its ability to meet the electrical demands of 422 households near Wadi Dayqah dam area in Qurayat with minimal capacity shortage, emphasising its technical viability. The economic viability may be improved in the future with advancements in hydrogen energy storage technology and rising fossil fuel prices. • Techno-economic analysis of large-scale hydrogen storage with FPV application. • LCOE is determined to be at $0.970/kWh. • The system is capable of fulfilling 100% of the electrical demands of 422 households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We are investigating in this paper the issue of managing driving behaviors. In spite of the intensive research works that have addressed this issue, there is still a need for further investigations concerning the changing magnitude of the behaviors, their impact, as well as their inter-relations. Within this context, we are proposing in this paper a new approach for driving behavior management via the concepts of the Internet of Driving Behaviors (IoDB) and the Internet of the Driving Habits (IoDH). We are particularly aiming to inspect driving behavior scores and identify those repetitive aggressive conducts that are becoming long-lasting habits. In order to prevent and/or heal any driving habits that would increase road traffic risks and crashes, we are proposing the Invest-Prevent-Heal-Accompany process that uses the concepts of Confusion Driving Matrix and Confusion Behavior Matrix to investigate the reasons and causes of traffic homogeneity and driving scores. We explore the interest of the proposed approach using a dataset of 942 trips of 252 drivers collected from a governmental organization at Muscat city, Oman. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clean energy resources will be used more for sustainability improvement and durable development. Efficient technologies of energy production, storage, and usage results in reduction of gas emissions and improvement of the world economy. Despite 30% of electricity being produced from wind energy, the connection of wind farms to medium and large-scale grid power systems is still leading to instability and intermittency problems. Therefore, the conversion of electrical energy generated from wind parks into green hydrogen consists of an exciting solution for advancing the development of green hydrogen production, and the clean transportation sector. This paper presents a techno-economic optimization of hydrogen production for refueling fuel cell vehicles, using wind energy resources. The paper analyses three configurations, standalone Wind-Park Hydrogen Refueling Station (WP-HRS) with backup batteries, WP-HRS with backup fuel cells, and grid-connected WP-HRS. The analysis of different configurations is based on the wind potential at the site, costs of different equipment, and hydrogen load. Therefore, the study aims to find the optimized capacity of wind turbines, electrolyzers, power converters, and storage tanks. The optimization results show that the WP-HRS connected to the grid has the lowest Present Worth Cost (PWC) of 6,500,000 €. Moreover, the Levelized Hydrogen Cost (LHC) of this solution was found to be 6.24 €/kg. This renewable energy system produces 80,000 kg of green hydrogen yearly. • Wind to green hydrogen represents an interesting solution for greenhouse gas reduction. • Three configurations of wind-park stations designed for green hydrogen production are analyzed. • Grid-connected wind park consists of an optimal solution for the wind park hydrogen station. • The Levelized cost of hydrogen production using a 5 MW grid-connected wind park is 6.24 €/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a comprehensive exploration of the development of an AI-driven Gen-Alpha education guidance indicator for Oman, employing cutting-edge machine learning techniques. The primary objective is to deliver a highly personalized support system and guidance mechanism that accompanies students throughout their academic journey. The research places a spotlight on the pivotal role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the realm of education. It skillfully demonstrates AI's robust capabilities in accurately forecasting student performance through the effective use of data mining and advanced machine learning techniques. An integral aspect of this research is the application of AI in aiding students to navigate the involved process of subject selection for their higher education pursuits. This multidimensional process encompasses exhaustive data collection, the detailed creation of a sophisticated machine learning model, and the application of a diverse array of state-of-the-art algorithms. Among these algorithms, K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Decision Trees, Random Forest, and Support Vector Machines (SVM) stand out prominently. Notably, the SVM algorithm emerges as the outright winner, delivering an extraordinary accuracy rate of 77%. This remarkable achievement underscores the model's unwavering robustness and its potential to redefine the educational landscape in Oman. In essence, this paper transcends the boundaries of conventional research and offers conclusive validation of AI's revolutionary potential in reshaping educational paradigms. By facilitating data-driven decision-making, the AI-driven Gen-Alpha education guidance indicator empowers students to embark on their educational journeys well-informed and confident, thereby playing a pivotal role in advancing Oman's education system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy demand has increased rapidly worldwide due to the depletion of fossil fuels. Recently, the rate of energy consumption has become unsustainable, providing a strong incentive for many countries to pursue renewable energy sources. By 2030, Oman's national energy strategy aims to generate 20% of its electricity from renewable sources. In the same context, Oman has the target to join the front rank of countries that aim to capitalize on their renewable resources to produce green hydrogen for export to the global market and domestic utilization. This study investigates the prospects for creating green hydrogen using solar energy in Oman's Dhofar region. The key obstacles to solar-to-hydrogen generation are discussed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical travel and transnational healthcare involve various difficulties such as the distance and disconnect between patients and healthcare providers, language barriers or logistical challenges of moving ill bodies across space. Medical travel facilitation steps in with some sort of brokerage service that contributes to overcoming or managing these difficulties and, as this paper suggests, acts to create a quality of 'smoothness'. By unpacking three salient facilitation practices, namely connecting, communicating, and coordinating, this paper conceptualises the empirically derived category of 'smoothness'. This as a disposition, outcome, and spatio-temporal manoeuvre of medical travel facilitation. Based on the way in which such practices of mediation act to create smoothness, namely in an attentive, persistent, and collective tinkering manner, this paper suggests that some practices of medical travel facilitation are productively thought not just about setting up the possibility of care transnationally, but that they are key forms of care in itself. Based on these findings, smoothness is considered to be a central but also contested quality of medical travel facilitation and brokerage in a broader sense, but as proposed here, also for care. This conclusion potentially has implications not just for the study of transnational healthcare and mediation activities, but also that of care and transnational mobilities more generally. • Medical travel facilitation creates smoothness in mediating transnational healthcare. • Conceptualising smoothness as a disposition, outcome and spatio-temporal manoeuvre. • Brokerage and an STS-take on medical travel facilitation and care. • Smoothness as a quality of medical travel facilitation, brokerage and possibly care. • Medical travel facilitation between Oman and India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of current paper is to create a smart and effective tool for telemedicine to early detect and diagnose COVID-19 disease and therefore help to manage Pandemic Crisis (MCPC) in Sultanate of Oman, as a tool for future pandemic containment. In this paper, we used tools to create robust models in real-time to support Telemedicine, it is Machine Learning (ML), Deep Learning (DL), Convolutional Neural Networks using Tensorflow (CNN-TF), and CNN Deployment. These models will assist telemedicine, 1) developing Automated Medical Immediate Diagnosis service (AMID). 2) Analysis of Chest X-rays image (CXRs). 3) Simplifying Classification of confirmed cases according to its severity. 4) Overcoming the lack of experience, by improving the performance of medical diagnostics and providing recommendations to the medical staff. The results show that the best Regression among the five Regression models is Random Forest Regression. while the best classification among the eight classification models and Recurrent Neural Network using Tensorflow (RNNTF) is Random Forest classification, and the best Clustering model among two Clustering models is K-Means++. Furthermore, CNN-TF model was able to discriminate between those with positive cases Covid-19 and those with negative cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new model of dust impact on grid-connected PV was proposed. • The dust characterization and effects in Sohar, Oman was investigated. • Experimental validation of the proposed model with the techno-economical evaluation presented. A grid-connected photovoltaic system was tested and investigated for the entire year under desertic weather exhibited. The system contains 1.4 kW PV and 1.7 kW inverter —the data was measured every second and used to model and evaluate the system performance. However, dust is one of the essential parameters that affect grid-connected photovoltaic performance, yield, and profitability. In this paper, a proposed model has been takes into consideration the dust impact on grid-connected photovoltaic performance in a novel way. The outcomes demonstrate that the proposed model precisely anticipated the system performance and validated through experimental results. However, it is found that the photovoltaic, inverter, and performance efficiencies are 10.80%, 94.00%, and 73.00%, respectively. Besides, the average yield factor is 141.39 kWh/kWp, and capacity factor is 19.64%. It concluded that the system productivity in Oman is within the prospected rate. The information in this paper is valuable for investors, researchers, and engineers interested in grid-connected photovoltaic and dust impact in Oman and neighboring countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mobile broadband (MBB) services are rapidly growing, causing a massive increase in mobile data traffic growth. This surge in data traffic is due to several factors (such as the massive increase of subscribers, mobile applications, etc.) which have led to the need for more bandwidth. Mobile service providers are constantly improving their network efficiency by upgrading current networks and investing in newer mobile network generations. However, these improvements will not be enough to accommodate the future spectrum demands. This paper proposes a time series forecasting model to analyze future spectrum demands based on the spectrum efficiency growth of MBB networks. This model depends on two key input data: the average spectrum efficiency per site and the number of sites per technology. The model is used to predict the spectrum efficiency growth of three countries (Turkey, Malaysia, and Oman) from 2015 to 2025. The proposed model is compared with various traditional statistical models such as the Moving Average (MA), Auto-Regression (AR), Autoregressive–Moving-Average (ARMA), and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA). The forecasted results indicate that the average spectrum efficiency and growth will continue to rise multiple times by 2025 compared to 2015. The data from this prediction model can be used as input data to forecast the required spectrum needed in future for any specific country. This study further contributes to the network planning of future mobile networks for Fifth Generation (5G) and Sixth Generation (6G) technology. The proposed model obtains higher accuracy (by 90%) compared to other models. The proposed model is also applicable to any country, especially when new wireless communication technologies emerge in future. It is customizable and scalable since spectrum regulators can add additional metrics that positively contribute towards accurately estimating future spectrum efficiency growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen reduces carbon dioxide emission, advances the dependency on fossil fuels and improves the economy of the energy sector, especially in developing countries. Hydrogen is required for the green transportation sector and many other industrial applications. However, the high cost of green hydrogen production reduces the fast development of renewable energy projects based on hydrogen production. So, sizing by optimization is required to determine the optimum solutions for green hydrogen production. In this context, this paper aims to analyze three methods that can be developed and implemented for the production of green hydrogen for refueling stations using photovoltaic (PV) systems. Techno-economic models are adopted to calculate the Levelized Hydrogen Cost (LHC) for the PV grid-connected system, stand-alone PV system with batteries, and stand-alone PV system with fuel cells. The photovoltaic systems based green hydrogen refueling stations are optimized using Homer software. The optimization results of the Net Profit Cost (NPC), and the LHC permit the comparison of the three cases and the selection of the optimal solution. The analysis has shown that a 3 MWp grid-connected PV system represents a promising green hydrogen production at an LHC of 5.5 €/kg. The system produces 58 615 kg of green hydrogen per year reducing carbon dioxide emission by 8209 kg per year. The LHC in the stand-alone PV system with batteries, and stand-alone PV system with fuel cells are 5.74 €/kg and 7.38 €/kg, respectively. • Levelized costs of hydrogen produced in photovoltaic refueling stations are analyzed. • Grid-connected photovoltaic system is an optimal solution providing green hydrogen. • Surplus of electricity produced in hydrogen stations is sold back to the power grid. • A 3 MWp photovoltaic system produces 58 615 kg of hydrogen at a levelized cost of 5.5 €/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zero energy buildings (ZEBs) are targeted by several developed countries around the world which consequently promotes the progress toward achieving ZEBs. The concept of ZEBs is, however, uncommon in developing economies such as Oman. In 2011, The Research Council of Oman has announced a competition to design, construct and operate buildings that embrace sustainability principles. The first five eco-friendly buildings were designed and constructed by academic institutions in different climatic conditions of Oman. This project has significantly contributed toward raising awareness of energy efficiency and renewable energy systems in buildings. This paper outlines the design of sustainable energy systems of one of these five buildings. The ZEB prototype is located at the Sultan Qaboos University campus in Muscat, which is an extremely hot climate as classified by the ASHRAE Standard 169-2013. The ZEB building was designed with full manipulation of natural energy. This paper also reports the experimental results of its one year of operation. The results showed that energy use intensity (EUI) of 103 kWh/m2 was achieved by this building. The building was less than 3% from achieving its net-zero energy source/site/emissions status. Nonetheless, it was able to achieve a positive energy cost status because of the financial credits received from the exported energy, which is subjected to high cost feed-in tariffs. When grid interaction was considered, 40% of the building load was met by site generation. For 33% of the time, this building was independent of the electrical grid, which is comparable to other net-zero energy buildings located in other climates. While several experimental studies for ZEB performance have been described in literature for heating dominated climates, very few experimental studies have been published for cooling dominated climates. Hence, this study aims to fill the gap in the knowledge of energy performance of ZEBs located in this region. • The design of sustainable energy systems for ZEB in a hot climate is described. • ZEB is feasible in cooling dominated climate. • Experimental result for one year of operation for a prototype ZEB is described. • For 33% of the time, the building was independent of the electrical grid. 40% of the building load was met by the site generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Mobile learning is becoming increasingly universal, which highlights the potential need for mobile learning strategies that support higher education institutions to navigate increasing globalisation and rapid technology change. Several higher education institutions already support their traditional learning modes with diverse mobile learning initiatives. In line with this trend, this paper emphasises the importance of considering human factors when developing mobile learning applications. It demonstrates and discusses the results of a study of twenty-three different higher education providers in Oman, with three scenarios involving administrators, instructors and students. Ultimately, the article proposes a MobiLearn framework to enhance the learning process in the current education system through the application of six human factors: flexibility, suitability, sociability, efficiency, enjoyment, and economics. The study is part of an Omani-funded research project, investigating the development, adoption and dissemination of M-learning in Oman. Highlights • This paper brings into attention the importance of considering human factors in developing mobile learning application. • This paper demonstrates and discusses the results of a study conducted on 23 distinct Omani higher education providers. • The work considers three scenarios including administrators, instructors and students. • This article proposes a MobiLearn framework for enhancing the learning process in the current education system. • The framework concentrate on six human factors: flexibility, suitability, sociability, efficiency, enjoyment and economic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper evaluates Oman's National Fisheries Development Strategy 2013–2020 (NFDS) which was adopted in 2012 to guide the future development of the country's fisheries sector. The NFDS is an ambiguous document which gives rise to two different interpretations. First, it can be interpreted as a radical model of fisheries development which is driven by the principle of wealth-maximisation and entails a massive expansion and modernization of the fishing industry, transforming it from its traditional artisanal inshore form into a high-tech industrial form with an emphasis on a large new offshore sector. Alternatively, it can be interpreted as a traditional artisanal inshore fishery model which is driven by the principle of welfare-maximisation upholding the long-established cultural values of fisheries-dependent communities. The paper discusses these two different interpretations of the NFDS, drawing on the literature as well as the insights of 176 respondents obtained from 44 key informant interviews, 10 focus group discussions, and 92 survey questionnaires. The findings are that the government has settled for a hybrid model consisting of a diluted version of the radical vision - encouraging the development of a moderately sized offshore sector - while continuing to strongly support the traditional artisanal sector. Judging by the fourfold increase in fisheries production in Oman since 2012, this hybrid model seems to be successful in expanding the size of the sector. The wider lesson to be drawn from this study is the importance of balancing economic benefits of modernisation with social benefits of traditional communities – a balance that many other countries (both developing and developed) are struggling to strike. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the structural connections between hotel customers' general perceptions of technology, their perceptions toward service robots, emotions expectations, brand-related perceptions, and their behavioural intentions toward hotel brands that use service robots. It employs a quantitative approach by analysing data gathered through an online questionnaire from residents in Oman with PLS-SEM. The results indicate that attitudes toward service robots are significantly affected by optimism and insecurity. Customers' discomfort and insecurity significantly influence robot-related anxiety, which in turn impacts their emotional expectations. Attitudes toward service robots significantly affect positive and negative emotional expectations while positive emotions impact brand perceptions that in turn impact service robots' use intentions. Willingness-to-pay for robotic service is not affected by brand perceptions or use intentions. Theoretical and managerial contributions, limitations, and future research directions are outlined as well. • Examines the links among customers' perceptions, emotions expectations, perceptions, and behaviour toward service robots. • Adopts Technology Readiness Index, Cognitive Appraisal Theory, and Attachment Theory. • Customers' discomfort and insecurity influence their anxiety, which in turn affects emotions expectations. • Positive emotions drive brand perceptions, which positively influence consumer intentions to use service robots. • Brand perceptions and use intentions have no effect on willingness to pay for robotic services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Double diffusion (DD) structures, in two types of diffusive convection (DC) and salt-fingering (SF), occur due to vertical temperature and salinity gradients with different diffusion coefficients. Areas such as the Strait of Hormuz, which has a thermohaline exchange between the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, are suitable places for the formation of DD structures. Based on the results, the formation of DC structure is significant compared to other processes in the west of the Strait of Hormuz in December. Fluctuations in temperature and the growth of DC structure cause mixing and changing the depth of the boundary layer of temperature and salinity in the water. So that in the presence of the DC structure, the decrease in the value of the sound speed (1552 m/s) extends to a depth of 40 m, but the sound speed increases to 1555 m/s at the place where the warm water rises. The results show that the sound transmission loss increases by 5-15 dB in the place of strong DC structure. When the sound frequency increases, the transmission loss caused by the DC structure decreases. But for rays with a small propagation angle, a significant expansion is created in the propagation steps and wavelength of the rays, which increases up to 2 times with the increase in the depth of the sound source. • Over time, the use of acoustic instruments in the seas has increased in the field of marine exploration or communication, and it is very important to understand the marine environment and the processes that affect the use of these instruments. The effect of various processes on the propagation of sound waves has been investigated. But, many of these studies have focused on horizontal structures such as eddies, and investigating the change caused by DC in the sound signal has been neglected. Therefore, according to the formation of DC structure in the Strait of Hormuz and its practical importance, the changes in the sound signal at the place of the formation of this structure were investigated and the results were presented in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen energy will play a credible role to reduce gas emissions in the transportation sector, the storage of energy, and other industrial applications. Moreover, the hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources allows to minimize greenhouse gas and increase the net profit of energy projects. This paper discusses the feasibility of the conversion of solar energy into hydrogen in a Photovoltaic Hydrogen Station (PVHS) in the south of Oman. Then, the sizing of different equipment and hydrogen production estimation in a 5 MWp PVHS is presented. The analysis of the investment cost (IC), the Net Profit (NP), and the Levelized Hydrogen Energy Cost (LHEC) are discussed to investigate the benefit of the project. The energy generated from the PV system and the produced hydrogen is calculated through an analytical model. The PVHS consists of 5 MWp PV panels connected to electrolyzers through maximum power point-controlled converters. The electrolyzers convert the electrical energy and the water into hydrogen. The hydrogen compressed and stored in special tanks can be used later in many industrial applications. The system produces about 90 910 kg of hydrogen per year with an IC of 5 301 760 €. The calculated LHEC is equal to 6.2 €/kg at an interest rate of 2%. The analysis has shown promising green hydrogen production projects in Oman. • The production of hydrogen using photovoltaic energy in Oman is analysed. • PV system consists of a promising process for green hydrogen production in Oman. • A 5 MWp photovoltaic power station produces around 90 910 kg of hydrogen per year. • The Levelized hydrogen cost produced in 5MWp PV station is 6.2 €/kg. • The breakeven point of the 5 MWp PV hydrogen station is 8 years for a hydrogen selling price of 10 € per kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We look at Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through a historical investigation of the "health for all by 2000" policy adopted by the WHO in 1978. Within contemporary debates on access to care, Alma Ata is usually considered as a brief moment of well-intentioned utopia, which buckled to global health's agenda of performance metrics and targeted diseases. Such visions of primary health care (PHC) are shared references in the debates about UHC. Aiming at a less geopolitical and more local approach of the strategy's roots than the existing historiography, the paper draws from historical and ethnographic work on health policies and practices in Tanzania, Oman and Kerala (India), in which PHC was not only envisioned, but constructed as the backbone of local health systems, often prior to Alma Ata. All three states were praised for their PHC achievements. Studying them allows for emphasizing the importance of national trajectories in PHC, as well as revealing shared core issues such as the importance of access and affordability, of the focus on rural centers and the mass training of non-medical personnel, and of the articulation of vertical programs and horizontal system building. It also reveals very different trajectories in terms of duration, priorities, outcomes and international visibility. • The paper is a comparative study of PHC development in Tanzania, Oman and Kerala. • History shows that health systems had contingent relations to Alma Ata policy. • WHO's 1978 primary health care strategy is a retrospective utopia in debates on UHC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we develop a robust palaeo-proxy technique for inferring seasonal fluctuations in Phanerozoic seawater temperature. Specifically, we report δ13C and δ18O values across the columnar layer (inner shell) of Permian brachiopods, including five genera of the Order Spiriferida (Ingellarella , Martinia, Permophricodothyris , Cartorhium , and Trigonotreta) and two genera of the Order Athyridida (Araxathyris and Comelicania). These brachiopod specimens are inferred to have inhabited varied palaeo-depths, based on facies analysis, and were collected from low, middle and high palaeolatitudes. To obtain high-resolution ontogenetic isotopic time-series, a handheld microdrill was used to collect low-magnesium calcite samples along the longitudinal axis of the mid-valve for each specimen. Intrageneric and intergeneric comparison of statistics (mean values, variance, and range) reveals that δ18O values are consistent within and between genera although δ13C values are more variable. In specimens obtained from low palaeolatitudes (Julfa Formation, Iran; Bellerophon Formation, Italy; Late Permian), the range of δ18O values is small and consistent with weak seasonal temperature variations, irrespective of water depth. In specimens obtained from middle palaeolatitudes (Qarari Formation, Oman; Early-Middle Permian), we found a range of δ18O values dependent on inferred water depth, possibly reflecting a change in thermocline structure between warm and cold seasons. In specimens obtained from high palaeolatitudes (Wasp Head and Wandrawandian Siltstone formations, Australia; Early-Middle Permian), brachiopods from glacial and interglacial climate phases show significant variations of δ18O values, probably caused by seasonal changes in the seawater surface temperature. Based on these findings, the technique developed in this paper appears to provide reliable paleoclimate and paleoenvironmental data for Permian sites, and should be also applicable for Phanerozoic studies in general. However, we caution that δ18O values vary dependent on the growth direction, resulting in differences of up to 5 °C in seawater paleotemperature calculations, and emphasise that a consistent sampling strategy accounting for shell structure and growth direction is required. • Paleozoic brachiopods shells are suitable for sclerogeochemical studies. • The columnar layer of calcite brachiopods embeds the short term climatic signal of δ18O. • Past seasonality of seawater can be potentially reconstructed using brachiopod shells. • Past seasonality was significantly different between ice- and green-house conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy hybrid power systems have been proven through their ability to address the limitations of single renewable energy system in terms of power efficiency, stability, and reliability while operating at minimum cost. In this regards many research and practical experiences have been done. The present paper reviews the different hybrid PV–Wind renewable energy hybrid systems used for electrical power generations. Different criteria of sizing the different system components of hybrid renewable energy power plant at the most preferable logistical environmental and economical considerations have been discussed. Also, the paper discussed some of the optimization approaches which are used to compare the energy production cost and performance of different hybrid system configurations using simulation techniques. Based on the fact that, potential of the wind and solar energy is not equal in Oman, this paper will discuss the optimum sizing process of two proposed hybrid PV–Wind plants in Oman. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The globalization of trade in fish has created many challenges for the developing world specifically with regard to food safety and quality. International organisations have established a good basis for standards in international trade. Whilst these requirements are frequently embraced by the major importers (such as Japan, the EU and the USA), they often impose additional safety requirements and regularly identify batches which fail to meet their strict standards. Creating an effective national seafood control system which meets both the internal national needs as well the requirements for the export market can be challenging. Many countries adopt a dual system where seafood products for the major export markets are subject to tight control whilst the majority of the products (whether for the local market or for more regional trade) are less tightly controlled. With regional liberalization also occurring, deciding on appropriate controls is complex. In the Sultanate of Oman, fisheries production is one of the countries' chief sources of economic revenue after oil production and is a major source of the national food supply. In this paper the structure of the fish supply chain has been analysed and highlighted the different routes operating for the different markets. Although much of the fish are consumed within Oman, there is a major export trade to the local regional markets. Much smaller quantities meet the more stringent standards imposed by the major importing countries and exports to these are limited. The paper has considered the development of the Omani fish control system including the key legislative documents and the administrative structures that have been developed. Establishing modern controls which satisfy the demands of the major importers is possible but places additional costs on businesses. Enhanced controls such as HACCP and other management standards are required but can be difficult to justify when alternative markets do not specify these. These enhanced controls do however provide additional consumer protection and can bring benefits to local consumers. The Omani government is attempting to upgrade the system of controls and has made tremendous progress toward the implementation of HACCP and introducing enhanced management systems into its industrial sector. The existence of strengthened legislative and government support, including subsidies, has encouraged some businesses to implement HACCP. The current control systems have been reviewed and an SWOT analysis approach used to identify key factors for their future development. The study shows that seafood products in the supply chain are often exposed to lengthy handling and distribution process before reaching the consumers, a typical issue faced by many developing countries. As seafood products are often perishable, they safety is compromised if not adequately controlled. The enforcement of current food safety laws in the Sultanate of Oman is shared across various government agencies. Consequently, there is a need to harmonize all regulatory requirements, enhancing the domestic food protection and to continue to work towards a fully risk-based approach in order to compete successfully in the global market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar flares are sudden eruption of intense high-energy radiation from the Sun causing radio perturbations due to disturbances in ionosphere and magnetosphere of the Earth. The present paper investigates ionospheric response to a series of X- and M-class solar flares during 6–10 September 2017 with simultaneously extracted total electron content (TEC) from six global positioning system (GPS) observatories around Saudi Arabian low latitudes. These solar flares include the most significant event of the 24th solar cycle and the brightest one in the past ten years. The results show noticeable enhancement in TEC magnitudes with the flare induced geomagnetic storms as compared to the average nearest quiet days. An abrupt increase in TEC (~132%) is observed at the eastward location in Oman with a time lag of about 1 h from the brightest solar flare (X9.3) whereas other sites depict increments within 22%–78%, referring to a longitudinal asymmetry during the period. However, a remarkable deviation from the quiet time TEC is visible at all stations about 24 h after the event, with the maximum and the least positive differences in TEC at the westward Israel (~141%) and the southward Djibouti (23%) stations, respectively. Comparable levels of TEC (~200%–300%) were also seen at far equatorial locations after the M-class flare on September 8, 2017, corroborating to the conjugate effects of solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) induced geomagnetic storms and O/N2 changes. Interestingly, the second brightest solar flare (X8.2) appeared to be less effective confirming a negative ionospheric response at the eastern side during the nighttime hours. • Ionospheric response to 6–10 September 2017 solar flare is probed through GPS TEC. • Anomalous TEC enhancement attributes increased EUV and triggered magnetic storm. • Double peak TEC on September 8, 2017 reveals a longitudinal asymmetry. • The second largest flare (X8.2) on September 10, 2017 reveals suppressed effects. • Nighttime TEC shows far higher magnitude on flare days than quiet conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Austrian Space Forum in cooperation with the Oman Astronomical Society conducted a high-fidelity Mars Analog field simulation in the Dhofar region, Sultanate of Oman in February 2018. Directed by a Mission Support Center in Austria, a carefully selected and trained field crew of 15 researchers conducted experiments from various disciplines (e.g. engineering, planetary surface operations, astrobiology, geophysics/geology, life sciences) preparing for future human Mars missions. Mars analog research in a representative environment is also an excellent tool to enhance the visibility of planetary sciences and to engage with the next generation of researchers. To reach out to young students from 6 to 25 years, special programs and initiatives were set-up. This paper focuses on the Junior Researchers Program, where four high school and undergraduate student teams realized their experiments in a scientific mission, starting with defining their research questions, building their experiment hardware and finally analyzing and publishing the outcomes. • Mars analog research serves as a tool to inspire next generation researchers. • Students executed their experiments during the AMADEE-18 mission. • Students can learn from working alongside senior researchers. • The AMADEE-18 mission provided a platform for outreach and education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the hospitality sector involve consolidating assets among hotels through partnerships. While data envelopment analysis (DEA) has been widely used for hotel efficiency analysis, little attention has been paid to hotel M&A. In this paper, a hybrid DEA methodology consisting of two stages is proposed to identify optimal matches among hotels to enhance sector performance. The initial stage employs an inverse Data Envelopment Analysis (IDEA) model to evaluate the maximum gains that could potentially be generated from pairwise consolidations among hotels. A DEA procedure that incorporates a standard DEA model and a greedy heuristic is developed in the second stage to identify the optimal pairs of hotel mergers. The optimal merger strategy for the entire hotel industry is determined from the complete set of hotels under consideration. The pertinence of the proposed methodology is shown through a sample of 58 hotels from the Sultanate of Oman • First DEA approach to address M&A in the hospitality sector. • A two-stage hybrid methodology is developed. • The first stage uses inverse DEA to identify potential productive mergers. • An integrated DEA-Heuristic is proposed to find the optimal pairs of hotel mergers. • Promising prospects for future extensions of the proposed methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The non-US countries' oil trade will be affected by the combined fluctuations in oil price and exchange rate. For China, the world's largest oil importer, any slight fluctuations in oil price or exchange rate will significantly impact his oil import. Therefore, this paper firstly quantified the oil price spread between nominal price and real price corresponding to its domestic currency to show such impact. Secondly, we conducted statistical tests on the price spread under the circumstance when China imports from Russia, Oman, Dubai, WTI and Brent, and we introduced the fractal model to explore the nonlinear characteristics of the five price spread series. The five series all showed obvious long-term memory characteristics. Thirdly, time-varying memory series were constructed to further explore their dynamic features and the results showed they could forewarn the reversal trend of price spread series. Finally, the complex network is applied to analyze the dynamical mechanism of time-varying memory series and further explore the laws of the price spread. The algorithm could provide references for policymakers to anticipate the general trend of price spread and compare the price advantage of the crude oil. • The combined volatility of crude oil price and exchange rate affects trade cost. • We explored the long-term memory of the crude oil import payment pressure index. • The sliding window was applied to explore the time-varying memory. • We detected the evolution characteristics and mechanism of the time-varying memory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Smartphone based computational activities have recently invaded the healthcare sector and several applications including clinical diagnostics, laboratory data analysis, nursing care, education, data archiving and resource management have been successfully implemented. This paper studies the use of the Whatsapp messenger as a platform for integrating the Spine care services in the Sultanate of Oman by streamlining the referral patterns to tertiary care centers.Materials and Methods: In January 2015, a Whatsapp group was created including representatives of spine units from all 8 regional hospitals in Oman including Spine Consultants from tertiary care spine center in the country- Khoula Hospital. The referral data for 2 years and 9 months was retrospectively retrieved and analysed to determine the response time and treatment plans proposed for each case. They were compared with the available data of 2014.Results: 452 cases were referred using this platform during the study period. Forty percent of these were accepted and about 25% were advised to be treated conservatively at the referring hospital itself. The time to response reduced dramatically from over 12 h to a mean of one hour and 45 min as a result of this change.Discussion: The Whatsapp messenger platform appears to be an effective tool for inter-hospital referral based on clinical data and imaging studies and to obtain rapid responses from the referee center. This leads to optimal utilisation of specialised resources and indirectly helps reducing waiting times in specialty clinics. It also minimises inappropriate transfers and helps standardise care across the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper discusses the time and steps of the introduction of intensive agriculture and evolution of irrigation systems to sustain crops in the palaeo-oasis of Salut in the northern Sultanate of Oman. Various geoarchaeological methods allow reconstructing the exploitation of the natural resources of the region and technological development of irrigation methods since the Mid-Holocene. Intensive agriculture started during the Bronze Age and continued with some spatial and intensity fluctuations up to the Islamic period. Cultivations were initially sustained by surface irrigation systems and later replaced by a dense net of aflaj, the typical surface/underground system adopted in the Levant, Arabian Peninsula and western Asia to collect water from deep piedmont aquifers and redistribute it to the fields located in the lowlands. Our results indicate that the aflaj were in use for a long period in the palaeo-oasis formed along Wadi Sayfam and surrounding the citadel of Salut. Uranium-Thorium dating of calcareous tufa formed in the underground tunnels of the aflaj suggests that they were used between ∼540 BCE and ∼1150 CE. After ∼1150 CE Wadi Sayfam were abandoned and the size of the oasis shrank substantially. During the late Islamic period, a surface aqueduct descending from the piedmont of Jabal Shams secured water supply. Our work confirms that in arid lands archaeological and historical communities were able to actively modulate their response to climate changes by using a variety of technological strategies. Highlights • We investigated the onset of intensive cultivation in Northern Oman. • Intensive agriculture started in the Bronze Age. • Intensive cultivation continued with some fluctuations up to the Islamic period. • Cultivations were initially sustained by surface irrigation systems. • U/Th dating of calcareous tufa dates back the introduction of the falaj system to the Iron Age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of the hydrate assessment methods are developed based on relating the elastic properties to the hydrate saturation via establishment of robust and calibrated rock physics models and among them the most practical one is Effective Medium Theory (EMT) with four models of gas hydrate distributions. Generally, considering only one of these models in hydrate characterization could be an unrealistic assumption and therefore, rock physics inversion may cause erroneous assessments (over- or under-estimation). In this paper, hybrid models of hydrate distributions have been introduced for different combinations of two possible classical models by applying some modifications in the EMT workflow. Then, based on the modified EMT for hybrid models, a statistical rock physics inversion approach has been developed for estimation of gas hydrate saturations along with porosity, simultaneously. The result shows that theoretically it is possible to combine two models of distribution in both rock physics modeling and inversion processes. This developed approach was applied on a 2-D marine pre-stack time migrated (PSTM) seismic line passing through an anticlinal-ridge type structure in deep Oman sea sediment. For comparison, this approach was applied for single hydrate distribution as well. The results recommend to use the hybrid models of cementing and non-cementing distributions in the characterization to simultaneously consider all changes on the elastic properties of the host sediment imposed by hydrate presence. The results showed even in an un-explored area (without well information), this method can provide reliable robust result for porosity (independent of hydrate distribution assumption) and qualitative output for hydrate sweet-spots detection. Finally and after drilling the first exploration well, by having well log data in hydrate zone, along with possibility of validations and parameters calibrations for hybrid models, more reliable quantification could be achieved with this method; as the in-situ data increases the certainty of the determined elastic properties in model-based inversion process and also accuracy of defined mineralogical compositions. • Hybrid distribution models based on Effective Medium Theory (EMT) have been introduced as an advanced rock physics tool for more accurate appraisal of gas hydrate by assuming coexistence of two hydrate distribution types in the sediment. • The workflow of statistical rock physics inversion is designed for simultaneous hydrate saturations and porosity estimations based on introduced hybrid models using elastic properties from seismic pre-stack inversion as input. • The results of investigation showed that using this method provides almost the same result from estimation of porosity independent of assumption about hydrate distribution. • Different combinations of cementing and non-cementing distribution types can be evaluated in this method and the best scenario can be selected based on the geological interpretation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate how Geographical Information System (GIS) can be used effectively to study infestations of Dubas bug (DB), Ommatissus lybicus Bergevin, in date palm ( Phoenix dactylifera L.) that occurred in northern Oman during 2006–2015. The ability to produce geographical and spatiotemporal layers using GIS is expected to serve an important role in both monitoring and surveillance of DB infestation and its impact in the study area. By using of spatial analytic and geostatistical functions in ArcGIS 10.3™, 1 , data that quantified the infestation levels of DB over a 10-year period from 2006 to 2015 were used to map and model the risk of infestation spatiotemporally. We modelled the spatiotemporal risk of DB infestation by performing hotspot analysis using the Getis-Ord statistic, Gi*. Our results show that annual hotspots over the study period were mainly concentrated in the mountain plains, particularly where farms are located between gradient elevations. Furthermore, the distribution pattern varied considerably with time and space. These results demonstrated the usefulness in following annual DB infestation patterns by studying the average seasonal infestation levels and distribution of hotspots as they can facilitate the allocation of resources for the treatment of infestations and allow for more effective monitoring of its influence on date palm trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper outlines the benefits of large scale energy efficiency programs for new and existing buildings in Oman. In particular, an energy productivity analysis for these programs is carried out to encompass their overall impact for Oman’s economy. Over 75% of the total electricity consumed in Oman is attributed to buildings with almost 50% is due to household. First, a comprehensive optimization analysis is carried out using whole-building energy simulation to determine the best energy efficiency measures suitable to improve the energy performance of buildings in Oman. The economic and environmental benefits of a wide range of energy efficiency technologies are then evaluated. In particular, the impacts of different energy efficiency retrofit levels of existing buildings are the estimated on the energy productivity indicators for the building sector of Oman. The results of the analysis indicate that the implementation of a government funded large scale energy retrofit program for the existing residential building stock is highly cost-effective. In particular, it is found that a basic large scale energy efficiency retrofit program can provide a reduction of 957 GWh in annual electricity consumption and 214 MW in peak demand as well as over 660 k-ton per year in carbon emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a mathematical model for a multi-period hydrogen supply chain design problem considering several design features not addressed in other studies. The model is formulated as a mixed-integer program allowing the production and storage facilities to be extended over time. Pipeline and tube trailer transport modes are considered for carrying hydrogen. The model also allows finding the optimal pipeline routes and the number of transport units. The objective is to obtain an efficient supply chain design within a given time frame in a way that the demand and carbon dioxide emissions constraints are satisfied and the total cost is minimized. A computer program is developed to ease the problem-solving process. The computer program extracts the geographical information from Google Maps and solves the problem using an optimization solver. Finally, the applicability of the proposed model is demonstrated in a case study from Oman. [Display omitted] • A multi-period hydrogen supply chain model with pipeline transport mode is presented. • A user-friendly computer program integrated with CPLEX solver is developed. • The proposed model is examined in a case study with 42 demand nodes. • The case study is tested for a trade-off between cost and carbon emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dust depositions on photovoltaic (PV) modules reduce the transmittance of PV glazing, resulting in the degradation of efficiency. The primary source of dust is wind-blown sand and soil particles from the ground. The coarse dust particles have a diameter larger than 2 μm. Photochemical reactions of gaseous pollutants in the atmosphere and dried droplets of seawater forming salt particles form most of the fine particles smaller than 2 μm in diameter. The physical properties of dust, such as specific gravity, particle shape, surface properties, moisture content, plastic and liquid limits, and particular grain size, vary from location to another all over the world. These differences are due to the topographic, geological, and environmental conditions of each region. The weight and shape of dust particles have a significant effect on their deposition behaviour and PV performance. In this paper, an investigation of energy losses caused by dust deposition on PV modules in Oman is presented. Six dust samples collected over three months from six locations in Northern Oman were investigated to evaluate their physical properties. Most of the dust particles (64%) diameters size ranged from 2 to 63 μm. The dust deposition on PV modules was found to vary from one location to another. The results indicated that there is no significant energy-yield loss caused by the low surface mass concentration of dust (<1 g/m 2 ) on the PV module. The maximum daily efficiency loss was measured and compared with that from the literature, revealing that the efficiency loss was 0.05%, which is small compared to those of neighbouring countries. However, the results show a decline in the productivity of the PV module up to 35–40% after exposure to the weather conditions for more than three months, indicating that the advisable cleaning period, is every three months. Therefore, establishing PV systems at these sites is a reasonable option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent geophysical studies are focused on imaging the present-day architecture of the subsurface structures in the northern United Arab Emirates. Previous geophysical data have not fully investigated the deep structures in the middle and lower crust. The foreland basin flanking the UAE-Oman mountains to its west has been investigated by oil companies, mainly using seismic techniques. These studies have been vital in providing a constraint on the subsurface structure of the northern Emirates. This paper reports the results of using broad-band magnetotelluric (BBMT) data acquired for the first time in the UAE to map deep electrical crustal structures. The study aims at determining the geometry of the Semail Ophiolite, the underlying thrust sheets, and the basement structure beneath the allochthonous units and the foreland basin. The MT data were collected from 15 stations along an E -W profile across the Semail Ophiolite and the Dibba zone in the east and the foreland basin in the west. The MT data achieve greater crustal penetration, revealing electrical structures within the upper, mid, and lower crust. 2D and 3D inversion of the data map the high resistivity Ophiolite structure and the associated conductive Hwasina-Haybi thrust sheets in the mountain ranges and in the Dibba zone. In the foreland basin, the Quaternary and Tertiary sediments in the Pabdeh basin are characterized by low resistivity. Furthermore, the MT models detect a high resistivity zone related to the basement structure of the northern UAE in the middle and lower crust. The Ophiolite near the Dibba zone has >7 km thickness as shown in the 2D MT model, and the Hawasina-Haybi sheets have a maximum thickness of ⁓10 km beneath the Ophiolite. The allochthonous units indicate an oceanward dipping as similarly reported in the previous geophysical and geologic studies. • BBMT data map deep crustal structures in the northern UAE. • MT models helped to understand the late Cretaceous Semail obduction event. • Gravity and seismic data supported the interpretation of MT models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mobile learning (M-learning) has become an important educational technology component in higher education. M-learning makes it possible for students to learn, collaborate, and share ideas among each other with the aid of internet and technology development. However, M-learning acceptance by learners and educators is critical to the employments of M-learning systems. Attitudes towards M-learning technology is an important factor that helps in determining whether or not learners and educators are ready to use M-learning. Such attitudes will serve to identify strengths and weaknesses and facilitate the development of the technology infrastructure. This paper aims at exploring students and educators' attitudes towards the use of M-learning in higher educational universities within Oman and UAE; two neighboring countries in the Arab Gulf region. To serve this purpose, two survey questionnaires were conducted: one for students and another for educators. The participants of this study are 383 students and 54 instructors from five universities. Different factors have been examined to test where there is a significant difference among students and educators' attitudes towards the use of M-learning, such as gender, age, country, level of study, smartphone ownership, major in terms of students and age, country, academic rank, academic experience and smartphone ownership in terms of educators. Findings revealed significant differences among the students’ attitudes towards M-learning with regard to their smartphone ownership, country and age. Furthermore, results indicated that M-learning can be one of the promising pedagogical technologies to be employed in the higher educational environments within the Arab Gulf countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few decades, Oman is experiencing a rapid economic growth associated with the flourishing and maturity of the oil production. The construction sector has seen to be the primary beneficiary with the blooming of many new infrastructure projects that serves the rapid urban development. In line with the booming awareness of the sustainable development of its neighboring countries, many proactive actions from the government and professional bodies attempts to introduce the sustainability concept to the industry. However, the lack of evidence on sustainability progress suggests that these values are not yet at the top of the construction industry agenda. This paper reviews the current application of sustainability in the construction industry in Oman. Informative challenges and opportunities have been identified through market surveys and a qualitative observational research method of current eco-house construction project conducted by Sultan Qaboos University within a competition initiated by the research council in Oman. The proposed recommendations of this study shall help promoting and improving the sustainability application in the Omani construction practices in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents a situation analysis of artisanal fishermen on the Batinah coast of Oman, conducted within the scope of a project that had a broader mandate on training needs assessment (TNA). The collection of data followed a structured survey approach where the questionnaires were administered to 1934 fishermen and were analyzed by a mixed method approach. The findings were triangulated-from information gained from the observations of fishermen and the discussions held with other stakeholders. The research found that the majority of fishermen on the Batinah coast were not appropriately educated and trained. Most of them followed irregular routines, earned little money from fishing, had low savings, faced financial constraints, and lacked knowhow of modern fishing techniques and post-harvest dealings. The fishermen’s performance over several key variables revealed a need for a consolidated marine policy that takes into consideration a host of issues related to the governance of artisanal fisheries and its sustainability and contribution to the economic activities in Oman. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sohar Basin, located offshore the East Coast of the Arabian Peninsula, is an area that has seldom been the focus of international oil companies. While all commercial discoveries in the UAE and Oman have been made to the west and south of the Oman Mountains, the Sohar Basin is underexplored and remains prospective. This lack of activity is primarily because the Thamama reservoir, which has yielded huge success to the west of the Oman Mountains is likely not present within the Sohar Basin. However, potential traps, reservoirs, and source rocks are present within the Tertiary succession. The Sohar Basin formed in the late Cretaceous after the obduction of the Semail Ophiolite onto the Arabian Plate. Following a period of tectonic quiescence, which lasted until the Early Eocene, the gravitational collapse occurred along the eastern edge of the present-day Oman Mountains. Interpretation of both 2D and 3D seismic reveals that the subsurface is comprised of three tectonostratigraphic units, defined as pre-, syn-, and post-tectonic packages. North-South trending thrust faults generate distinct mini-basins within the pre- and syn-tectonic sequences. The post-tectonic sequence is defined by the development of prograding systems in a tectonically quiescent margin formed in the Lower Miocene and which persists to the present day. Deep-water depositional systems dominate the undrilled far-east and south of the basin where the presence of submarine canyon systems and associated basin floor fans is supported by 3D seismic data. In recent times, the Sohar Basin has been subject to extensional faulting likely driven by sediment load caused by a prograding delta system. The results of this work reveal that multiple untested play types exist within the Sohar Basin, which are comprised of both structural and stratigraphic elements. This paper integrates both a structural and sequence stratigraphic interpretation to provide insights into the tectonostratigraphic evolution of the Sohar Basin. Consequently, the fundamentals of play fairway mapping have been employed to unlock the hydrocarbon prospectivity offshore the UAE's East Coast. • A sequence stratigraphic approach unlocks the prospectivity in the Sohar Basin, offshore the east coast of the UAE. • Untapped prospectivity lies within deep marine turbidities within the Northern Sohar Basin. • Toe thrust systems have developed in response to post orogenic collapse of the Hajar Mountains. • A passive continental margin developed during the Miocene within the Northern Sohar Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Energy consumption of the residential sector in Oman was examined and forecasted. • A validated simulated model of a typical Omani house was compared to an energy-efficient one. • This was done in three climatic zones in Oman using four GCC energy codes. • Saving ranged between 13.2%–48.2%. UAE Estidama and Saudi Building Code achieved better saving depend on the climatic zone. • Economic analysis show that these building codes are not always leading to economical solutions in some climates. Abstract This paper examines the potential of energy saving in electrical consumption if the concept of energy-efficient house is implemented in Oman. Energy consumption in the residential sector in Oman was critically analysed and forecasted based on its growth rate and its historical consumption. Then, a base-case validated simulation model for a typical residential dwelling in different cities was generated using a dynamic building simulation software, covering a wide variation of climate conditions in Oman. A variety of modified design cases that met the minimum requirements for code compliance in residential buildings for four Gulf Cooperation Council countries were developed and subsequently simulated. Then, an economic analysis was performed. The results showed that due to the high annual growth rate of the residential sector (28.5%), a considerable amount of energy (13.2% in warm tropical climate to 48% in hot dry climate) could be saved if proper building codes are put in place. Thus, this paper calls for immediate action to start a large scale programme to promote and subsequently, to enforce the use of the principles of energy-efficient house in Oman. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The OSPZ3a Sub-Biozone, associated with the lowest part of the Lower Gharif Member, is part of biozonal scheme that was intended to unify the palynological schemes across Arabia. This paper describes and illustrates the main bisaccate pollen taxa from the OSPZ3a Sub-Biozone of the Well A cored well, Oman, between 2842.69 and 2852.82 m, where they are unusually well preserved. Pteruchipollenites indarraensis which is the most common bisaccate pollen taxon, reaching 40 to 50% of assemblages, is here placed in synonymy with Alisporites tenuicorpus Balme, 1970, the latter being its junior synonym. Striatopodocarpites cancellatus consistently first occurs in the OSPZ3a Sub-Biozone, and well-preserved specimens are present in Well A, but Arabian specimens appear to have a wider range of morphology, mainly in the arrangement of taeniae, than the type material. The relationship of the genus Striatopodocarpites to Verticipollenites Bharadwaj, 1962, Lahirites Bharadwaj, 1962 and Hindipollenites Bharadwaj, 1962 is also examined with the result that Striatopodocarpites is asserted as the senior synonym. The taeniate bisaccate pollen Hamiapollenites fusiformis Marques-Toigo, 1974 is unusually common in the Well A assemblages and its morphology is found to be distinct from the similar multi-taeniate bisaccate taxon Striatoabieites multistriatus (Balme and Hennelly) Hart, 1964, with which it is sometimes placed in synonymy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many construction and technological firms grew beyond borders of their countries since their market size couldn’t absorb their growing production capacities. Similarly, orientation to certain market segments forced these firms to go abroad in order to sustain their revenues, further improve their specialization and expand shareholder value. Due to increasing competition in the world market, traditional prerequisites do not necessarily have to lead to success in international bids. In addition to technological excellence, long-lasting experience, quality and cost leadership, securing project financing can play a crucial role in project bids. International Joint Venture (IJV), led by Siemens, gained an order with an international bid for delivery of two power plants with combined cycle to Oman, due to securing project financing for multinational investor. Project financing, arranged by German state-owned KfW IPEX-Bank, proved to be the turning point in this international tender. Siemens and its Korean partner successfully delivered both power plants in full conformance to investor's requirements. Despite uneasy market conditions and financial markets recovering from financial crises, German and Korean government export credit agencies (ECAs) opened new export opportunity, in order to support their home economies. Whereas jobs in Germany were secured, Siemens as a leading contractor improved its market position within the region of Middle East. At the same time, Sultanate of Oman gained access to highly efficient power sources with low impact on environment. This reference study demonstrates increasing and necessary role of government export-oriented agencies and banks for reaching exporters’ success in international business. The main objective of this paper is to contribute to identification of exporter's key success factors, when delivering project on export financing principles. In order to clearly introduce key aspects of this advanced export financing concept, case study as a research methodology was selected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to investigate the level of awareness and prevailing attitudes of the Oman government’s electrical sectors towards renewable energy. The geographical landscape of the Sultanate of Oman lends itself to energy generation from solar radiation, yet no decisive steps have been taken to initiate relevant projects that will reduce the country’s reliance on oil and gas in electricity production. This study is motivated by the need to better understand the obstacles that impede the implementation of renewable energy projects in Oman and the factors that cause delays in project initiation. To this end, we developed a questionnaire with sections intended for three government sectors: research groups, electrical companies and ministries, and regulatory bodies. Results indicate that ministries and regulatory bodies primarily support the increased exploitation of fossil fuels—a core reason for the slow adoption of renewable energy sources. Moreover, 82% of the respondents place priority on natural gas for use in power plants and more than 19% encourage the implementation of energy efficiency standards. All respondents consider renewable energy a viable future energy option and generally agree that the government should promote renewable energy and support relevant pilot projects. This study highlights the importance of immediately shifting to renewable energy and encouraging its development; a move necessary to alleviate the environmental risk posed by the use of fossil fuel-based energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The principal aim of our study is to investigate the contribution and/or the influence of Foreign Trade (FT), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and Financial Development (FD) on the Energy Consumption (EC)-Environmental Pollution (EP)-Economic Growth (EG) link for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) over the period 1971–2019. To realize the study aim, we develop an augmented growth model to examine the long-run relationship between the mentioned variables by applying the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) procedure and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) to capture direction causality. The empirical results suggest that the variables concerned are cointegrated. Further, the coefficients estimated are mixed across countries. In the long-run, EC, FT (except Kuwait), and FDI (except Oman and KSA) are related to a rise in EG for all countries. Besides, the findings support that EC generates EG in the short-run for all GCC countries, implying economic expansion. Moreover, the major conclusion of this research paper has an impressive value for the policymakers to advance comprehensive trade, investment, financial, and energy policies that enable to achieve sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the process and depth of formation of chromite crystals occasionally including ultrahigh pressure (UHP) minerals, recovered from some investigated ophiolites. We present direct microstructural evidence for crystallization of chromite ores from the Semail ophiolite, in place they are exposed. Similar crystal preferred orientation in olivine-rich layers and in septa from chromite layers indicate deformation of the olivine solid frame by dislocation creep at high temperature, synchronous with the crystallization of chromite. The preservation of the olivine framework throughout the development of joined chromite grains suggests that chromite replaced olivine. Chromite grains crystallized from a melt circulating in an open-system, stress-bearing network of dunitic aggregate, controlled by the olivine high-T slip system. The misorientation of joined crystals at grain boundaries define the ratio of twin vs. random boundaries that were closed to vs. open to fluid circulation, respectively, suggesting that chromite layers may represent planes of channelized melt circulation. The relationship of chromite deposits to ridge tectonics structures suggests that Cr-bearing melt was produced at the transition from an active spreading ridge to deep mantle shear zones acting as possible source of hydration. The occurrence of potential UHP inclusions in chromite crystals is assigned to continental contamination of melts ascending through the Arabian margin. • Chromite crystallized at shallow depth in the Semail ophiolite. • Crystallized from olivine matrix flowing at asthenospheric conditions. • Cr-rich melt circulated in an open stem, controlled by grain boundary character. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The logistics companies should continuously invent novel solutions to oppose fierce competition. Introducing occasional drivers in the context of freight transportation can represent a valuable option. This paper is concerned with reinforcing the distribution capability of a real-life company by using the novel paradigm of crowdshipping, besides employing its fleet of vehicles. Crowdshipping consists involving occasional drivers, which are to be selected from the public through the use of the combinatorial auction paradigm. We propose a mathematical model that integrates the decisions related to the vehicle routing with the winner determination problem for the occasional drivers' selection. The objective is to minimize the overall transportation cost of using the company's available fleet plus the cost of employing external drivers. We also propose two heuristic methods to solve real-life distribution instances; one is based on the decomposition method and the other on a cost-comparison greedy approach. The validity of the model, as well as the heuristic methods, has been verified by solving a real case study related to an online bookstore with door-to-door delivery in Oman. Our computational results show savings that reach 30% with respect to the solution implemented by the company. • Design a crowdshipping delivery system with occasional drivers and combinatorial auction. • The auction mechanism ensures transparency and fairness among the occasional drivers. • Integrate the winner determination problem within the vehicle routing model. • Develop ad-hoc heuristic approaches to solve a real-life case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most consistent impacts observed in the analysis of commercial catch globally is the phenomenon known as 'fishing down marine food webs', wherein fisheries increasingly target small fish in low-trophic levels as a result of the depletion of large, high-trophic level fish. Detecting and mitigating fishing down effects are critical to avoid undermining the long-term sustainability of marine ecosystems; yet the widespread geographical expansion of fisheries in response to declining coastal catches has concealed these effects. Iran is the most important fishing country in the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea region, with ever-growing artisanal fisheries that provide food and employment. In this paper, using catch time series spanning over 66 years (1950–2016) and biological data for 67 marine species/groups, we estimate mean trophic level (MTL), fishing-in-balance (FiB) and region-based MTL (RMTL) indicators to examine the effects of fishing down marine food webs while considering the geographical expansion of Iran's fisheries in the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea. We demonstrated that when not accounting for the geographical expansion of fisheries, MTL did not change much, and primarily reflected the presence of large fish (trophic level > 3.5). However, the climbing trend of FiB suggested that the increasing pattern of Iran's catch is potentially driven by the spatial expansion of the fishing fleet, which is concealing the fishing down effects. By considering the nonstationary nature of fishing fleet and fish stocks over time and area, results from RMTL bolster those obtained by FiB: the actual (observed) catch exceeded the potential catch calculated from the observed trophic structure, indicating that fleets have likely moved from nearshore to deeper, offshore waters to gain access to new resources. Once this is accounted for, our study reveals a downward trajectory of the coastal RMTL, providing insights into the condition of the coastal ecosystem in the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea. Image 1 • Geographical expansion of fisheries conceals the effects of fishing down food webs. • Region-based Mean Trophic Level (RMTL) indicator detects such a concealing factor. • MTL reflected presence of large fish in the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea. • RMTL revealed downward trajectory of coastal MTL in the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea. • Fisheries are likely moving offshore due to decline in larger fish in coastal water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the performance of greenhouse production in the Sultanate of Oman in two-stages. In the first stage, Data Envelopment Analysis is used to estimate the efficiency of greenhouse farmers and pinpoint the wasted resources. The efficiency results show that 79% of greenhouse farmers are technically inefficient, with an average efficiency score of 73%. Moreover, slack analysis indicates that water and electricity consumption both exceed the efficiency norm by up to 54% and 46%, respectively. The second stage aims to identify the contextual (socioeconomic and environmental) factors that influence the efficiency of greenhouse farms. This is accomplished using a truncated regression model along with a double bootstrapping mechanism found in the greenhouse production literature. Results reveal that ground water salinity is the environmental factor that has the most negative impact on greenhouse efficiency. The socioeconomic factor that has the most positive effect on greenhouse efficiency is the secondary occupation of the farmer; especially when that occupation pertains to the government agricultural sector. To enhance efficiency of greenhouse farms two main courses of action are recommended. On the greenhouse farmer's side, training programs are needed to educate the farmers on methods that promote more rational resource consumption. For policies and regulations, a regulated water framework is essential, as well as an appropriate revision of the government's subsidy policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tsunamis have repeatedly hit the shores of Oman (Northern Arabian Sea) in historical times (e.g. 1945, 2013). These events had small (< 3 m) wave heights and short inundation distances, but it is unclear if much stronger events can affect the area. Boulder deposits and fine-grained sediments are described from the north coast of Oman, which are interpreted as evidence for much larger pre-historic tsunami events. No systematic dating was available, which hampers interpretation. In this paper we report radiocarbon dating results for marine organisms in these deposits and present luminescence dating of fine-grained units. We document new sedimentological and archaeological evidence for past tsunamis and describe new data on the impact of the 1945 Makran tsunami in Oman. Since the coast of Oman is prone to tropical storms, we discuss the possibility of sediment transport by cyclones and we compare our findings with recent evidence of boulder transport by storms worldwide. We argue that our results favor an interpretation as tsunamites based on sedimentological, archaeological, and spatial criteria. The dating results allow us to show that a tsunami hit the northern coast of Oman around 1000 years ago. A comparison with historical tsunami impact indicates that this palaeo-event exceeded in size all modern examples in the study area. We speculate that only a large earthquake at the Makran Subduction Zone can produce a tsunami of this size. In that case, the earthquake might have at least partially ruptured the western Makran, which would imply that the western Makran is not completely unlocked. Hazard scenarios based on historical data underestimate the tsunami threat in the Northern Arabian Sea. • Instrumentally recorded seismic activity is evident along the eastern Makran subduction zone only. • Our results suggest Holocene seismic activity within the western Makran subduction zone. • Our results imply that coastal hazards might be more severe than caused by the M W 8.1 earthquake and tsunami in the year 1945. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on a case study investigating the introduction of tablet computers into a rural primary school in Oman. The school is unusual in that it is in an economically-disadvantaged, mountainous region which is prone to flooding. There is little infrastructure, with no internet and there is a high turnover of staff. The project to introduce tablets was a personal initiative of the head teacher who needed to convince the Ministry of Education, her staff and parents of the pupils. The study used Activity Theory to explore the introduction of the tablet computers, seeing the school and the classrooms as Activity Systems. The Activity Theory analysis made it possible to see how changing one aspect of an Activity System, by introducing new mediational tools, affected the agents, the community, the rules and the division of labour. The study found that the tablets changed the working culture of staff in the project and the behaviour and responsibilities of the pupils. The significance of the study lies in the fact that the school was such an unlikely setting for such an innovation and the consequent effects such as staff collaboration and partnership between teachers and pupils – which might have been standard practice in an affluent urban setting – constituted radical changes in the culture of the school and classrooms. The study also innovates in the use of Activity Theory to examine all components of the System in order to understand the unexpected impacts of an innovation such as tablet computers in education. • Touchscreen tablet computers are introduced into schools for a variety of reasons. • An innovation such as tablet computers has a range of impacts in the classroom. • Analysing all aspects of the classroom identifies the full range of impacts. • Introducing new classroom tools can be a catalyst for change in practice. • Even with little infrastructure, teachers can find creative ways to implement change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Urban land use distribution is an integral part of urban sustainability. • The relationship between spatial configurations and land use distribution is investigated using Space Syntax. • Statistical analysis showed that residential land use is linked to Integration and NACH in highly intelligible areas only. • NACH has showed the strongest prediction power of residential land use. • The findings provide a framework to the planning authorities to assess new proposals. Abstract It is widely accepted that land-use distribution has a direct impact on urban sustainability. This study examines the relationship between land-use distribution and the spatial structure of street networks in newly developed neighborhoods as a contribution to urban sustainability. Two new neighborhoods in Muscat, Oman, were examined using Space Syntax theory. The land use maps were developed through exhaustive site visits, while the spatial analysis was generated using DepthMapX software. The following four spatial attributes were included: Integration, Control, Choice, and Normalized Least Angle Choice (NACH). The land use variables were Retail, Residential and Mix-use. The statistical analysis showed that the distribution of the Residential land use is significantly influenced by the spatial attributes in highly "intelligible" spatial configurations, with NACH being the best predictor followed by Integration. In addition, the degree to which an area has a formal grid structure was found to have no effect on the relationship between the variables. Thus, this paper contributes to urban sustainability, Space Syntax, and land-use distribution studies by providing evidence on how spatial arrangements influence land-use distribution, and consequently, energy use, demand for services, and patterns of urban traffic. The study concludes with recommendations to the planning authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The circulation structure in the western tropical Indian Ocean (WTIO) was investigated based on surface drifters and Simple Ocean Data Assimilation (SODA), with particular attention to the characteristics of the circulation structure associated with seasonal monsoon transitions. Surface drifter trajectories manifest three distinct seasonally dependent patterns of western boundary currents in the WTIO. The northward Somali Current (SC) flows across the equator to ∼10 °N in the boreal summer (June to August; JJA). The northward SC turns offshore near the equator during monsoon transitions. The southward SC feeds the South Equatorial Countercurrent together with the northward East African Coast Current in the boreal winter (December to February; DJF). While during the monsoon transition (MAM and SON), drifters prefer to turn eastward and feed the strong equatorial currents. Based on satellite observations, the results of a balanced diagnostic model demonstrate that the geostrophic component U ζ and the wind-driven component U τ predominate the mean state and the seasonal variations of circulation in the WTIO. The vertical motion shows that upwelling primarily occurs along the coasts of Somali and Oman and is induced by offshore Ekman transport. Ekman transport and associated vertical motions constitute meridional overturning circulation. The SODA results confirm the existence of an equatorial roll in the boreal summer and winter. The results elucidate the dynamic relationships between 3-D circulation and monsoon transitions in the WTIO. • Drifter trajectories describe three seasonally dependent circulation patterns in the western tropical Indian Ocean. • The geostrophic component U ζ and wind-driven component U τ predominate the mean state and the soasonal variability of circulation. • The 3-D structures, show seasonal variability associated with monsoon transitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]