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Background: Scientific publication is a vital mission of medical schools and it is important to periodically document how well schools fulfil this mission., Aims: This study aimed to analyse the publication record of Libyan medical schools in international journals indexed in PubMed between 1988 and 2007., Methods: Medline was searched using PubMed for publications affiliated to Libya during 1988-2007., Results: Out of 417 papers related to Libya, 348 (84%) are affiliated to the medical schools and related hospitals. More than 60% of the 348 papers are affiliated to Al-Arab Medical University, Benghazi, while Al-Fateh Medical University, Tripoli, contributed 103 papers (30%). The rest of the papers (n=25, 7%) were published by medical schools in other parts of the country. The publication rate declined by 3% annually between 1988 and 2007. The decline was mainly due to a decrease in the publication rate by Al-Arab Medical University, Benghazi. Overall, nine departments produced 10 or more papers each. Out of about 1675 staff members, there are only 148 first authors and 207 last authors. The estimated annual publication rate is 0.7 papers per 100 academic staff members., Conclusion: This study reveals that published scholarship of the Libyan medical schools is extremely low, that the publication rate has declined, and that most academic staff have no publications listed in PubMed. This issue needs urgent attention.

Cathodic protection (CP) is the most effective method for protecting petroleum facilities against corrosion. As part of this protection, care should be taken to continuously evaluate the existing system in order to maintain the system in favorable conditions. The subject of the paper's research is an oil plant for the transportation of oil derivatives located at the Brega company in Tobruk, Libya. In the present work, a case study on how to evaluate the CP system for an existing company for petroleum transportation is considered. The procedure was planned in three steps. The first step is a historical survey of the CP system from when the company started. The second was a diagnostic analysis study of the problem and how to fix it along the system. The third is the conclusions and recommendations regarding the measures for evaluating the CP system without stopping production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There has been a global increase in the prevalence of common mental disorders (CMD), particularly in conflict hotspots. The limited amount of resources is one of the key barriers to effective treatment within Low- and Middle-income countries (LAMICs). The lack of service provision for mental health disorders in LAMICs has resulted in limited opportunities to conduct mental health research. Libya is a North African country that has suffered from ongoing conflict with the current political unrest in Libya further impacting the mental health of the population. Main text: The aim of this review is to conduct a synthesis of evidence regarding the estimated prevalence and associated risk factors of CMD in Libya. A search was completed in the academic databases; PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, PsychINFO, CINHAL, and the Institute for Development, Research, Advocacy and Applied Care (IDRAAC) from inception to March 2020. Only studies that investigated prevalence and associated risk factors of CMD in Libya were included. A total of 219 studies were identified of which 15 met the inclusion criteria for the review. There were (n = 3) papers investigated the prevalence of depression, (n = 4) studies were focused on stress-related disorders and the remaining papers looked at both anxiety and depression. Statistically, sample sizes of the included studies ranged from (n = 41–13,031) for the prevalence studies (mean = 1188.6, median = 233). Conclusion: The status of Libya as a conflict hotspot has led to a reduced level of epidemiological data on mental health, with a vital need to conduct research in CMD. Libya requires better clinical governance which can allow for more scientific research into CMD and enabling the Libyan government to develop evidence-based policy initiatives for CMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article deals with the role of photographic documentation in conservation efforts. Using the example of Islamic sites in Libya, historic inn buildings located in Ukraine and Poland, the centres of Polish historic cities destroyed during World War II, and the monuments of Ukraine destroyed during the period of "militant atheism," World War II, and the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war, it is proven that often photographic documentation of objects becomes the main source of information about destroyed or damaged objects. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the value of photographic documentation for conservation and preservation efforts. The authors point out that it can also be used for eye-tracking studies of visual perception of conservation objects, both by local communities, i.e., nonprofessionals in the field of architecture, as well as perception by architects and conservators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose novel transdisciplinary STEAM practices to enable students and teachers to model architecture using technology. Architectural modelling can foster students' mathematical knowledge and computational thinking while connecting them to other disciplines such as culture and history. Our study focuses on enabling architectural, cultural, and historical diversity in educational practices. Moreover, the study tries to foster participants' modelling skills and innovative technology use as augmented reality and 3D printing. Thus, this paper will describe three case studies from Austria, Libya, and Indonesia and how these STEAM practices were used in different ways to allow participants to express their diversities through modelling diverse architectural constructions cross-culturally. We followed a qualitative data analysis approach for the participants' interviews, questionnaires and artefacts including architectural modelling, disciplines connections and lesson plans. The data analysis resulted in emerging themes emphasizing STEAM practices' possibilities to connect architecture to culture and history and highlighting the participants' cultural diversities in each of the three case studies.

This paper presents a preliminary conservation treatment of four pottery fragments excavated at Leptis, Libya manufactured in varied shapes, sizes, and colours. Studied objects were unearthed as sherds from two different conditions. Determination of the deterioration rates and caused factors of the pottery objects was significant to take the correct decision for conservation treatment. Results demonstrate that marine environment was more deteriorate than sandy soil. This work aims to characterize the chemical structure of pottery objects in the original environment using functional analyses. Mechanical cleaning was the first aid and safe step of conservation procedures. Desalination treatment was used for the long-term stabilization of the excavated pottery; then, internal stresses was decreased. Immersion in distilled water was efficient for decreasing water-soluble salts as halite. Insoluble water-salts were removed mechanically and chemically using dilute hydrochloric acid. Colour and thickness of the potsherds were the clues for the classification for assembling using a PVAc/CN mixture (1:1). Completely reconstruction of the excavated sherds was undertaken for understanding the occupation of the objects, then they were preserved in the storage. After desalination and assembling, painted iron stands were prepared for displaying the treated objects [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the technical, economic and environmental feasibility of a gridconnected solar photovoltaic (PV) system for a single-family residential home in several Libyan cities with separate locations was studied. In Libya, the rate of electricity consumption is the largest in the domestic sector, with 60% of the total electricity consumption. Due to the frequent power outages in Libya, and the dependence of power generation mainly on traditional sources, pollution problems, and energy alternatives are an important priority. To overcome these problems, we propose maximizing the exploitation of renewable energy sources for energy production. In this paper, the HOMER Pro Renewable Energy Modeling Software was used to conduct a technical evaluation of a grid-connected solar PV system's economic viability, where the design was proposed for a residential house for six Libyan cities. The size of the PV system for a residential home is estimated at 15 kW. The findings indicated that the suggested design could supply 85% of the household's electrical requirements. AlKufra was the best location in terms of economics and the environment for a grid plus PV system, as the initial cost of the system was $9,570, the Cost of Energy (COE) was $0.0314, and the carbon dioxide emissions were 56,982 kg/year. Overall, lower prices for PV modules and PV components combined with long life, less maintenance needs, and minimum parity near the grid. The results show that PV systems connected to the residential grid are an effective energy management option in most Libyan cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Documentation and Information Department of all Libyan universities is working on developing the university's website to suit all users with their different experiences and ways of interacting, so it is necessary to test the ease of use of these sites. That is why the researcher seeks to evaluate and compare his performance of these sites and chose the order of work on the first six Libyan universities as stated in the global ranking of universities. Among the six criteria that show the common strengths and weaknesses of the six university websites. The results showed the success of most university websites in ensuring the continuity of communication with their servers, while most of them failed in the security aspect and their lack of maintaining continuous updates. [Paper presented at the Scientific Conference on Information Technology and Computer Science (Feb 2022).]

Background: Clinical features of rotavirus gastroenteritis vary from mild to severe and the prevalence of the disease is high in Eastern Mediterranean Region. The aim of this systematic review is to create solid evidence for the prevalence and clinical features of rotavirus among children under five years in Eastern Mediterranean Region. Methods: Several databases have been searched: MEDLINE, PubMed, ScienceDirect, google scholar and the Cochrane Library. In addition, the authors searched relevant organizations websites and, they went through grey literature search. A total of 3220 articles have principally traced. After excluding the irrelevant, ineligible, duplicated and very low-quality papers, only 10 studies were included in this review. Results: The highest prevalence rate of rotavirus in the Eastern Mediterranean Region countries was reported from Egypt by 76.9%1 followed by Bahrain by 44.8%2 then Jordan by 39.9%3 and it was less prevalent in Saudi Arabia and Sudan by 10% and 16% respectively4,5. Diarrhea, vomiting and fever were reported in high rates in most countries1-10, and in low rate in Saudi Arabia1. Dehydration was reported in Libya by 93.5%6, Bahrain by 95.3%2, Yemen by 59%10 and Egypt by 56%1. Conclusion: The prevalence of rotavirus in Eastern Mediterranean Region countries was ranged between 10% in Saudi Arabia to 76.9% in Egypt. Diarrhea, vomiting, and fever were more prevalent in many countries of the region while dehydration was mainly reported in Libya, Bahrain, and Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cooperation between supply chain partners in the oil industry is essential, especially when oil prices suffer from fluctuations that affect the profitability of each party. An essential task in oil field development projects is to create an optimum agreement between the national oil company and the international oil company to guarantee agreement optimization. In this paper, the national oil company is the first party (FP) and the international oil company is the second party (SP). The paper's purpose is to investigate the use of game theory to obtain the best agreement between the FP and SP in order to enhance the cooperation and reduce conflict. In this paper, Nash and Maxi-min solutions have been applied for the first time in a special type of petroleum agreement, called exploration and production sharing agreements (EPSA). This is conducted for a case study in Libya. The study considers nine negotiation factors (issues) in the EPSA, which are the share percent, the four "A" factors, and the four "B" factors, which are usually affected by the fluctuations of oil prices; and the study investigates their effect on the total payoff function, the net present value (NPV), and internal rate of return (IRR) for both parties. The Maxi-min solution has shown an improvement in the NPV and IRR of the SP, where NPV increased from USD 148 million to USD 195 million, and IRR from 15.65% to 17.01%. The Nash solution has shown a little more improvement than the Maxi-min solution in the NPV and IRR for the SP, where the NPV and IRR have increased from USD 148 million to USD 222 million and from 15.65% to 17.94%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The short- and long-term volatility of oil and gas prices has a wide-ranging impact on both parties of petroleum contractual agreements, thus affecting the profitability of the project at any stage. Therefore, the government (first party) and the international oil company (second party) set the parameters of their contracts in a way that reduces the uncertainty. The effect of price fluctuations on economic indicators is investigated in this paper. The Taguchi method is used for the first time to find the best-agreement parameters, which are the "A" and "B" factors, in the standard Libyan agreement. There are four "A" components from "A1" to "A4", and four "B" components from "B1" to "B4". The purpose is to reduce the variability in the response variables, which are the company take (the percent of net cash flow for the international company) and average value of the second-party percent share of production (ASPS). The noise factors considered in this paper are oil, liquefied hydrocarbon byproduct (LHP), and gas prices. The method was applied to a case study of oil field development in Libya. The results showed that "A3" and "A4" were the most important control factors that affect the ASPS, while "B2" and "B3" are the most important factors affecting the company take. To obtain robust results, the most important factors to reduce variability were also determined. The effect of control parameters on the average NPV may be worth more than USD 22 MM in the 1-billion-barrel oilfield case study. The results showed that, for a given combination of "A" and "B" factors with a certain company take, the mean absolute deviation (MAD) of the NPV of the second party was reduced by 18% if the optimal combinations of the levels were used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generating electricity from renewable energy instead of fossil fuels brings great benefits to the environment and sustainable development. Thus, assessing the potential of wind and solar energy in agricultural coastal areas can identify sustainable energy solutions for meeting energy demand and producing fresh water for agricultural applications and domestic use. However, it is difficult to accurately assess the wind and solar energy potential in Libya due to the civil war, lack of measured data, and its limited availability. Consequently, this concise work is unique because it is the first to use daily measurement data from Az-Zāwiyah, Libya, for evaluating wind and solar energy based on one year of measured data for 2022. Moreover, the present study aims to investigate the potential of wind and solar energy as promising renewable sources for meeting energy demand in coastal agricultural regions in Libya using multiple datasets for the first time. In this paper, five satellite products (TerraClimate, ERA5, ERA5-Land, MERRA-2, and CFSR) were assessed and compared against measured data for January 2022–December 2022 to understand their suitability, accuracy, and reliability. The results showed that CFSR and ERA5-Land demonstrate the most favorable performance for assessing the wind resource, while all satellite products can be utilized for preliminary solar resource assessment. Then, the assessment of wind and solar resources was evaluated in five agricultural coastal regions (Aljmail, Az-Zāwiyah, Castelverde, Msallatah, and Sabratah) based on the best satellite product for the period of 2000–2022. Furthermore, the performance of the wind and solar power systems was investigated for typical farms, which were chosen to estimate the required energy demand according to daily electrical consumption. The results show that the positive outcomes of implementing these systems were highlighted, with an emphasis on their potential benefits to the entire Libyan agricultural sector. Accordingly, scaling up and generalizing the proposed systems and generalizing them to include all farms in Libya could have a significant impact on national electricity generation, mitigate greenhouse gases, and contribute to the development of the agricultural sector and the country's economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the evaluation of the economic viability of various scale wind farms and the assessment for the first time of the wind power potential of 22 locations distributed over Libya. The study utilizes monthly mean wind data collected from the NASA power dataset. The analysis includes determining and analyzing the mean wind speed, frequency distribution, and Weibull distribution scale and shape factors. The results showed that Darnah is the most promising location for insulation wind farms due to the high value of wind speed. Moreover, RETScreen software is used to estimate the energy output and conduct an economic feasibility analysis of the wind farm. Additionally, this paper establishes a relationship between the wake effect, airfoil losses, and the potential for greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation and the performance of wind farms. The results indicate that wind projects are economically viable when the EWT-DW 52 with a capacity of 500 kW is used. The study findings show that the wake effect is a crucial consideration in wind farm design, and it can be minimized through strategic spacing and turbine design. Furthermore, the accumulation of dirt and debris on wind turbine blades can significantly reduce a wind farm's energy output, causing turbine inefficiency and decreasing the overall energy production. Additionally, the energy production cost from a wind farm is less than that of the electricity tariff and can result in a profitable wind energy project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study area is the city of Zintan, in northwestern Libya, which has grown over the past 30 years. Its current population is roughly 30,000. Although the city is in part commercial, most of the population engages in agriculture and primarily grows cereal crops (wheat and barley). The demand of the growing city for agricultural products has increased, intensifying the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and insecticides. Consequently, concentrations of potentially toxic elements (PTE) in the soil have increased. To assess the soil quality (to provide a snapshot of the condition of the soil), systematic sampling was undertaken across a grid of about 2 km × 2 km. The main objective was to determine the chemical and mineral composition of the area of interest, keeping in mind the geological footprint of the terrain. The geologic framework itself is not conducive to elevated concentrations of elements like U, Th, Mo, As, Hg, Pb, and Cr. Therefore, metal concentrations greater than the amounts in the Earth's crust are most likely of anthropogenic origin. A total of 143 samples were collected and chemical analyses were performed using a Thermo Fisher Scientific Niton XL3t GOLDD+ XRF analyzer for the following elements: Mo, Zr, Sr, U, Rb, Th, Pb, Au, Se, As, Hg, Zn, W, Cu, Ni, Co, Fe, Mn, Cr, V, Ti, Sc, Ca, K, S, Ba, Cs, Te, Sb, Sn, Cd, Pd, and Ag. This paper provides examples of elevated concentrations, potentially harmful to the environment, such as those of the following: sulfur of unknown origin (two to three times higher than the Earth's crust average); arsenic, given that there are no related natural phenomena (all the samples measured displayed concentrations higher than those found in the Earth's crust); mercury (concentrations much higher than permissible levels); cesium (additional investigations required to determine the origin); molybdenum; and uranium likely resulting from the use of superphosphates (concentrations nearly always significantly higher than those in the Earth's crust). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traffic safety is an area of great importance, since there are many traffic accidents every day in which a significant number of people are killed. Defining certain strategies and identifying potentially the most dangerous towns and cities regarding this area are, on the one hand, a necessity, and, on the other hand, a challenge. In this paper, integrated Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model for ranking cities in Libya from the aspect of traffic safety has been proposed. The model implies a set of 8 criteria on the basis of which 5 decision-makers rated the 10 most deprived cities in Libya. The Full Consistency Model (FUCOM) in combination with the rough Dombi aggregator is used to determine the significance of the criteria. The Rough Simple Additive Weighting (R-SAW) method is used to rank the alternatives. The rough Dombi aggregator is also used for averaging in group decision-making while evaluating the alternatives. The stability of the model and the obtained results has been verified by the sensitivity analysis, which implies a 2-phase procedure. In the 1st phase, rough Additive Ratio Assessment (R-ARAS), Rough Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (R-WASPAS), Rough Complex Proportional Assessment (R-COPRAS) and Rough Multi-Attributive Border Approximation-area Comparison (R-MABAC) methods are applied. The 2nd phase implies changing the parameter ρ in the procedure of rough Dombi aggregator, while the 3rd phase includes the calculation of Spearman’s Correlation Coefficient (SCC) that shows a high correlation of ranks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was inspired by a contemporary trend in architecture, which is the interest of passive and low energy applications in buildings. Where a natural cross ventilation can be a promising passive solution for summer thermal comfort in buildings especially in hot country like Libya. It takes advantage of the night temperature of the air to cool the walls at the buildings, although this technique is well-known in hot climate, its use in new buildings requires being able to predict the quantity of heat that can be dissipated. There is indeed a lack of experimental and research data either to build design rules for engineers or to validate numerical code dedicated to the design. This paper concentrates on the area of cross ventilation and Highlights the opportunity of using this passive low energy cooling method here in Libya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last few decades, both developed and developing countries have an increasing trend in technology but with an enormous gap, particularly in the education sector. The e-learning following institutions can achieve benefits by evaluating their e-learning readiness through up-front analysis. Moreover, several models have been introduced to measure e-learning readiness for developed countries but these are not adequate for developing countries. This paper introduced the e-learning readiness evaluation model for the developing country, Libya, by considering the primary education sector. Furthermore, this study examines the e-learning level of readiness in the staff of the primary school. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the e-learning readiness of staff by directing factors of e-learning readiness i.e. cultural readiness, content readiness, and technology readiness. To achieve this objective, this paper collects data through questionnaires, and respondents are 110 staff member of primary schools in Yefren, Libya. Therefore, the multivariate analysis shows that the e-learning readiness factors have e significant relationship with the adoption of e-learning because most teachers are well prepared and ready. Likewise, results indicate that technology is the most significant factor instead of other e-learning readiness factors. According to the views of staff, there should be more content development training required for primary school staff. Thus, the demographic structure is inadequate to enhance the e-learning but the staff is ready for e-learning. Consequently, this study emphasizes the significance of cultural readiness and its relationship with the adoption of e-learning in primary education sectors’ development in Yefren, Libya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on the most ancient unusual morphological trait of the apertures of Poaceae pollen found in archaeological layers. In Poaceae, high levels of hybridization, polyploidy, apomixis, and multiporate pollen are often related. Multiple genomes in polyploids are critical for the adaptation of plant species to stresses and could be revealed by anomalies in pollen development. Therefore, the paleoenvironmental research can gain great benefits from identifying polyploids in past contexts by observing anomalous pollen morphology during pollen counts. The occurrence of multiporate pollen in Poaceae has also been related to special features of the ecology of the species showing this anomaly, as well as to climatic and environmental stresses experienced by Poaceae living in a given region. Multiporate and bi- or tri-porate instead of monoporate pollen grains have been observed in samples taken from Takarkori rockshelter, an archaeological site in southwestern Libya (central Sahara) that has been occupied between ~10,200 and ~4650 cal BP. Multiporate pollen was found in organic sands and coprolites of ovicaprines. On the basis of archaeobotanical research, this work aims to investigate whether the presence of supernumerary pores in Poaceae pollen may be an effect of both climatic/hydrological changes and continued anthropogenic pressure on the wild grasses living in the region. The presence of multiporate pollen reveals that Poaceae that lived in central Sahara tackled several kinds of stress during the early and middle Holocene. The Takarkori pollen record suggests that climate change could have played a major role in the early Holocene, while human pressure became stronger during the middle Holocene. The change in environmental conditions determined adaptive responses of polyploid grasses even in the form of multiporate pollen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study was inspired by a contemporary trend in architecture, which is the interest of passive and low energy applications in buildings. Where a natural cross ventilation can be a promising passive solution for summer thermal comfort in buildings especially in hot country like Libya. It takes advantage of the night temperature of the air to cool the walls at the buildings, although this technique is well-known in hot climate, its use in new buildings requires being able to predict the quantity of heat that can be dissipated. There is indeed a lack of experimental and research data either to build design rules for engineers or to validate numerical code dedicated to the design. This paper concentrates on the area of cross ventilation and Highlights the opportunity of using this passive low energy cooling method here in Libya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to examine the factors that influence the adoption of ISAs, intending to stimulate establishing a responsible and efficient auditing regime in Libyan auditing practice, shedding light on challenges in auditing practices in the North African region. This study conducted semi-structured interviews with 43 participants that represented 5 key actors from within the auditing field in Libya, including preparers and users of annual reports. Regarding ISAs adoption, the study focused on those institutional isomorphism drivers that are found to produce a greater impact on the experience of auditing practice in Libya. The identified factors are (a) foreign corporations, such as accountancy firms, (b) economic systems and the stock market, (c) international financial institutions (IFIs), and (d) the legal system. The research demonstrated that these drivers systematically and consistently predict the level of ISAs adoption commitment and associated harmonisation. Given the growing interest in harmonising auditing practice not only by scholars but also by policy and decision-makers, the relevance of this research cannot be questioned since it addresses significant concerns and contributes to the development of an under-researched topic in Africa. This paper expands the literature on the importance of harmonising auditing practices and provides fresh insights into auditing practices in a politically unstable country. Awareness is also raised about the most relevant drivers of adopting ISAs and several implications for policymakers and regulators in pursuing international harmonisation of auditing standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since ancient times, courtyards have played a vital role in architecture, particularly in domestic architecture. Over time, the existence of vernacular architecture has made beauty and harmony; these have always been important components of traditional Libyan architecture. Studying traditional vernacular architecture is key to maintaining vernacular architecture knowledge; this is because these principles, such as modular design, geometry, and proportions, are detectable characteristics of the tradition. Architecturally, proportion is an aspiration of the implementation of design grammar that encloses shapes of structure. A good impression upon the beholders builds in relation to different elements of space, such as a scale of geometric shapes, patterns, organisation, and the hierarchy of space relationships, to achieve aesthetic dimensions, in part and as a whole. In this article, the study searches for a modular, or proportion, that rules the geometric design of traditional houses in Libya. This is conducted through examining the geometry of typical traditional houses and the golden section method to find if a certain proportional relationship existed. From this perspective, the vision relied on studying the form suitability; in addition, it involved an analysis of the elevation as well as the interior courtyard proportion in relation to the building area. The outcome of this research is to find the aesthetic values that could generate a good design of domestic architecture; and to prove whether they are a perfect match with the proportion system and modular design used in traditional houses. The study employs the quantitative method, which includes archival documents, direct observation, and on-site documentation. The study involved an in-depth examination of the proportioning and geometrical principles used in traditional houses and courtyards. Their respective roles in creating harmony and beauty are discussed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to highlight the contents of theAlgerian approach to resolving the current Libyan crisis, which is basically consistent with the principles of its foreign policy, by focusing on the principle of dialogue and emphasizing peaceful solutions, and rejecting all forms of foreign intervention. In this context, the Algerian diplomacy strives within the framework of the regional competition to find a solution to the Libyan conflict through dialogue between the Libyans parties. Thus, the Algerian approach and its perceptions of the solution to the Libyan crisis do not depart from the principles of theAlgerian foreign policy and the principles of its military doctrine. In fact, Algeria does not hide its fulfilment to these principles, which are mainly based on non-interference in the internal affairs of states, respect for the sovereignty and unity of states and the choices of peoples, and searching for peaceful and diplomatic options to resolve international crises instead of resorting to the use of force and military decisiveness. Since President Abdelmadjid Tebboune came to office, the Libyan issue has topped the priorities of the Algerian foreign policy. Hence, Algeria's diplomatic initiative to solve the Libyan crisis is based on its historically impartial diplomatic weight in the region, and the output of Algeria's network of relations with the various active powers in the Libyan arena which has been the establishment of a new equilibrium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Earth-Observing One Hyperion sensor was decommissioned on March 20, 2017. Analysis of Libya 4 Pseudo-Invariant Calibration Sites (PICSs) image data acquired from 2004 to final decommissioning indicated statistically significant drifts in sensor response in the bands 8 to 16 (426.82, 436.99, 447.17, 457.34, 467.52, 477.69, 487.87, 498.04, and 508.22 nm) and bands 206 (2213.93 nm), 209 (2244.22 nm), and 210 (2254.22 nm). The estimated yearly drift in these bands ranges between −0.136% and −0.049%. After correction accounting for the estimated drift, the absolute radiometric calibration of the sensor was evaluated through vicarious reflectance-based calibrations performed at the South Dakota State University (SDSU) test site and the Radiometric Calibration Network (RadCalNet) Railroad Valley site using data from 2002 to 2015. Calibration correction coefficients including gain as much as 1.40 and bias as large as 0.132 were found except absorption bands (890–980, 1090–1180, 1305–1520, and 1750–2050 nm). Finally, the yearly drift and calibration correction coefficients were validated by comparison of the banded multispectral Hyperion data after any significant drift and calibration coefficient correction with Landsat 7 data. The validation showed that after drift and calibration coefficient correction, there is no significant gain and bias using different test sites at different signal levels. The drift and calibration correction coefficients of each band are provided in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than a decade since the outbreak of the revolution in 2011, Libya remains mired in a political crisis and institutionally fragmented, having been the scene of two civil wars. This paper looks at the interrelationship between the national and international dimensions of the conflict to illustrate how the various rival political elites project an image of the country to the outside world (branding) in order to boost their national and international legitimacy, obtain material support and strengthen their bargaining position in the peace processes. To that end, it studies the discourses of the Libyan political elites in three periods: the first Libyan civil war (2011) and the transition phase, the second civil war (2014-2020) and the failed attempt to hold presidential elections in 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From luxury spice to medical cure-all, silphium was a product coveted throughout the ancient world and occupied an essential place in the export economy of ancient Cyrene. The mysterious extinction of the silphium plant in the 1st century CE leaves us with little evidence as to the exact nature of this important agricultural product. In this paper, an historical background on the kingdom of Cyrene is provided, evidence for the nature of the silphium plant is reviewed, how and why it was consumed and traded is discussed. Possible causes of extinction are considered in the context of plant genetics, biometrics, and soil geochemistry. Next, we demonstrate how modern medical studies conducted on possible living relatives can inform us about claims made by ancient authors as to the medical uses of the silphium plant, including its use as a contraceptive and abortifacient. Finally, methods for recovering silphium are explored. We show how underwater archaeology and the search for ancient shipwrecks off the northern coast of Libya may offer our best chance for the recovery of botanical remains of ancient silphium, and how ancient DNA may be able to establish the genetic makeup of this elusive plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may have a potentially serious effect on mental health and increase the risk of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorders in people. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of psychological illness and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Libyan population's mental health. Method: A cross-sectional survey, conducted in both online and paper modes and consisting of five sections, was completed in more than 30 cities and towns across Libya. The first section consisted of questions on basic demographic characteristics. The second section contained a survey related to the lockdown status, activities, related stress levels, and quarantine. The third section comprised the self-administered 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). The fourth section contained the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), and the fifth section contained the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). Result: Of the 31,557 respondents, 4,280 (13.6%) reported severe depressive symptoms, with a mean [standard deviation (SD)] PHQ-9 score of 8.32 (5.44); 1,767 (5.6%) reported severe anxiety symptoms, with a mean (SD) GAD-7 score of 6 (4.6); and 6,245 (19.8%) of the respondents reported post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with a mean (SD) score of 15.3 (18.85). In multivariate analysis, young age, being female, unmarried, educated, or victims of domestic violence or abuse, work suspension during the pandemic, and having increased workload, financial issues, suicidal thoughts, or a family member with or hospitalized due to COVID-19 were significantly associated with a high likelihood of depressive and anxiety symptoms, as well as PTSD. Internal displacement due to civil war was also associated with PTSD. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to analyze the psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and civil war in Libya. Further study on the development of strategies and interventions aimed at reducing the mental disease burden on the Libyan population is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to understand the foremost challenges in the transition to online teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study adopts the PRISMA approach to screening the selection of journal articles and review papers according to the research aims and the inclusion criteria. The journal articles and review papers were extracted and stored in Microsoft Excel and Google Scholar, Academic. Microsoft, Semantic Scholar, Elsevier, and Emerald Insight databases searched relevant documents using formulated keywords. A statistical technique was applied using the M.S. Excel analysis tool (PivotTable and an independent t-Test) to analyze data and determine the differences between teachers and students. The review revealed the evidence that the majority of the studies were primarily focused on the individual developing countries and results from other developing countries were not considered. In addition, the foremost challenges in the transition to online teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic were inadequate skills and training, inadequate Internet/Infrastructure, lack of supporting resources and lack of online student engagement and feedback. Finally, the independent t-test reveals there is no statistically significant difference in challenges in the transition to online teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Both teachers and students encounter similar challenges. The systematic review raised concerns that higher learning needs to effectively implement long term strategies and support teachers and students in getting into online teaching and learning.

This paper takes a cursory and insightful examination of the socio-economic implications of the illegal migration to and from Libya. It aims to provide an interrogation of the underlying causes and exacerbation of the development, its transformation to new forms of slavery and source of income for certain criminal elements, the role of the EU, and how it affects Nigerians and other sub-Saharan African citizens. The paper recommends that the European Union, Nigeria’s federal government, and other sub-Saharan African leadership should endeavor to man their borders very strategically and engage with the Libyan authorities effectively to reduce the illegal migration. Finally, the work recommends that the United Nations Commission for Refugees, International Organization on Migration, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and importantly, more stable governments of the Middle East, especially Turkey and Egypt should intervene in the process to curtail further conflicts in Libya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the hydrodynamics on the western coast of Libya. The investigated area, which is a part of the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the most critical and active coastal regions in the country. A 2DH process-based model for flow based on the Delft3D modelling system from Deltares is constructed for the study area. Extensive field data concerning the tidal constituents were used. The flow model that is necessary to understand the hydrodynamics of the area was calibrated and validated using field measurements. In this paper, only the water levels and tidal components for the astronomical tide are presented. Calibration and validation of the numerical flow model show that the results of the water level represent the field conditions well. The present study gives insight into the basic hydrodynamic processes of the investigated area. It should help designers and the decision-makers maintain the region for any other economic and social activities. The flow model for the investigated area can be also coupled with any other models like wave, sediment transport, morphodynamic and water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ágora: Estudos Clássicos em Debate is the property of Agora: Estudos Classicos em Debate and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Surface broadband emissivity in the thermal infrared region is an important parameter for the studies of the surface energy balance. This paper focuses on estimating a broadband window emissivity from the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS) data. Both sensors are on board the NASA Earth Observing System (EOS) Terra satellite, which was launched in 1999. First, several definitions of the broadband emissivity were investigated, and it was found that the emissivity integrated between 8 and 13.5 μm is the best for estimating the net longwave radiation under clear-sky conditions. Then, a method to estimate broadband emissivity at the continental scale was developed. The method uses two regressions. The first regression is to relate the broadband emissivity to the emissivities for the five ASTER channels using measured emissivities in the laboratory from spectral libraries. The second regression relates the broadband emissivity map from ASTER data to the emissivity and reflectance derived from MODIS data. The first regression was used for mapping the broadband emissivity using ASTER data in a 500 km × 1400 km area of North Africa, which includes Tunisia, eastern Algeria, and western Libya. This emissivity map was used to calibrate the second regression, which was applied to MODIS data and generated a broadband emissivity map over North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The range of the broadband emissivity was found to be between 0.85 and 0.96 for the desert area. The resulting broadband emissivity maps and the methodology for generating them will contribute to future climate modeling studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of NeoBiota is the property of Pensoft Publishers and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Agriculturae Serbica is the property of University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Agronomy and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Much research has been done in the realization of apology and request speech act but very few have explored this in the context of Arabic language. We perform a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) process in this paper to gather and analyze studies to identify the diverse apology and request strategies preferred by Arabic learners of English and the influence of culture and social distance on them. The strategies employed and the speech acts along with the native and foreign dialects and pragmatism involved are researched. Following a predefined review procedure, we identified 15 literature papers within the years 2016-2020 presenting research on apology and request strategies preferred by Arabic learners of English. The studies are gathered from various resources and illuminate the apology and request strategies in different contexts. We analyzed the papers to understand the preferred strategy method chosen and the logic behind it. Moreover, this study presents a related discussion and conclusions.

The 2013-2014 liquidity crisis in Libya has resulted in many Libyans' difficulties accessing their banking accounts and managing their financial standing. In place of this, many commercial banks have developed new mobile payment techniques, particularly the 'MobiCash' Service offered by Wahda Bank to assist Libyan customers in accessing their accounts and carrying out their financial transactions. This paper intends to examine the effect of lifestyle changes on mobile banking services or 'MobiCash' and their awareness of this novel service. Also, this study investigates the more profound understanding of Libyan customers. It highlights customers' socioeconomic characteristics using 'MobiCash' services offered by Wahda Bank in the city of Derna in Libya. The questionnaires were distributed online, and a sample of 149 was obtained. SPSS was used to analyse the data and regression analysis to test the significant effect of customers' lifestyles and their awareness of 'MobiCash'. The results showed that Libyan customers were accepting of this form of mobile banking. The findings indicated that age and academic degrees do not influence awareness of 'MobiCash'. However, customer lifestyles affect awareness of the banking service of 'MobiCash'. Socio-Economic factors do not mediate the relationship between lifestyle and awareness of banking services of 'MobiCash'. This study's outcomes have increased the current knowledge on the behaviours and awareness of novel banking service features like 'MobiCash'. Moreover, the study may provide a more in-depth understanding of what is needed for Libyan banking customers to accept further this technological service and, thus, permit the improvement of banking strategies to attract potential users. Future researchers can extend the understanding of this study in other contexts and service environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused an unprecedented disruption in medical education and healthcare systems worldwide. The disease can cause life-threatening conditions and it presents challenges for medical education, as instructors must deliver lectures safely, while ensuring the integrity and continuity of the medical education process. It is therefore important to assess the usability of online learning methods, and to determine their feasibility and adequacy for medical students. We aimed to provide an overview of the situation experienced by medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of medical students regarding electronic medical education. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with medical students from more than 13 medical schools in Libya. A paper-based and online survey was conducted using email and social media. The survey requested demographic and socioeconomic information, as well as information related to medical online learning and electronic devices; medical education status during the COVID-19 pandemic; mental health assessments; and e-learning knowledge, attitudes, and practices. A total of 3,348 valid questionnaires were retrieved. Most respondents (64.7%) disagreed that e-learning could be implemented easily in Libya. While 54.1% of the respondents agreed that interactive discussion is achievable by means of e-learning. However, only 21.1% agreed that e-learning could be used for clinical aspects, as compared with 54.8% who disagreed with this statement and 24% who were neutral. Only 27.7% of the respondents had participated in online medical educational programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, while 65% reported using the internet for participating in study groups and discussions. There is no vaccine for COVID-19 yet. As such, the pandemic will undeniably continue to disrupt medical education and training. As we face the prospect of a second wave of virus transmission, we must take certain measures and make changes to minimize the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak on medical education and on the progression of training. The time for change is now, and there should be support and enthusiasm for providing valid solutions to reduce this disruption, such as online training and virtual clinical experience. These measures could then be followed by hands-on experience that is provided in a safe environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the intensification of global migration movements, the importance of studies in the field of acculturation has been increasing. In order to develop a healthy adaptation process between the migrant community and the host society, it is especially necessary to conduct studies on the acculturation processes of young migrants. Exploring the acculturation orientation of migrant students in Turkey, one of the leading countries experiencing the migration movements intensively, this study collected data from a total of 110 migrant students, 69 females and 41 males. "Vancouver Index of Acculturation", "Revised Social Contact Scale", "Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support", "Turkish Proficiency Level Questionnaire" and "Personal Information Form" were employed as data collection tools. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to analyze the data. The analyses results revealed that the level of perceived social support of migrant students from their families and the quality of social contact significantly predicted their heritage culture orientation and explained 18% of them. In addition, the quantity of migrant students' social contact and the quality of social contact significantly predicted their mainstream culture orientation and explained 25% of them. As a result, the present study put forth that in order to support the heritage culture orientation of migrant students, the perceived social support from the family should be improved, and the quantity and quality of social contact should be increased to reinforce their mainstream culture orientation and to facilitate the acculturation processes. [This study was presented at the International Eurasian Educational Research Congress (EJER) (7th, Eskisehir, Turkey, September 10-13, 2020).]

Introduction: Transition in mortality is an important indication of progress in public health and a precondition for medical interventions and health system development. Developing countries are always said to be lagging behind in terms of demographic transition. This statement undermines experiences of some developing countries, especially those in the Arab Region. Almost all Arab countries have made substantial reduction in mortality. An Arab country located on the north of Africa, The Great People's Arab Libyan Jamahiriya (Libya) sets an ideal example of improved mortality and a health service delivery system among developing countries. Recent political developments have disrupted the health setup, which depended on the Libyan People's Congresses. But a similar setting is emerging in the country with the new political and administrative governance taking lessons from experiences. Objectives: This paper attempts to review mortality in Libya through tracing the routes, reviewing underlying factors and examining the contribution of Government and other public health institutions. Methodology: This paper makes use of national statistics on major mortality indicators viz., crude death rate, infant mortality rate, under 5 mortality rate, maternal mortality rate and expectation of life at birth since 1950. Results: A remarkable change in mortality has been observed, which had a clear relation with improvement in health service delivery systems. A strong political will coupled with stability of governance have contributed to this improvement. A few international organizations and regional and national agencies have also contributed to this trend. Recent events have affected the system, overloading emergency services. Conclusions and Implementations: These achievements from an experimental people-based health system development have to be treated scientifically through information base for contributing to changes in health delivery systems and also for accelerating progress in the future. Learning from experiences of the previous experimental people's congress oriented health service delivery shall take the system to further health gains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short-stories have been the center of attraction for centuries for various people for various reasons but mainly due to fascinating pedagogical aspects embedded in them. For many ELT professionals and pedagogues, they have been important topics of debate and discussion in the recent years due to numerous pedagogical benefits and implications for developing language skills of EFL learners. The advocates of the use of the short-stories for developing language skills argue that the use of short-stories offers the material which is real, creative and rich in language selection, as well as is amusing and motivational in nature. It is also considered as a highly effective approach for teaching and learning of foreign language like English and is recommended for the same reasons by eminent intellectuals. In the background of this effectiveness of the use of short-stories for developing language skills in EFL classrooms, the present paper investigates the attitudes of the Libyan EFL learners towards the use of short-stories for developing reading comprehension skill. The present status of the use of short-stories in the Libyan EFL classrooms and the researcher's perspective on the use of short-stories in the Libyan context also form an important part of the discussion in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the most important issues in public policy and welfare state is health care. Poor management leads to the waste of resources, including money, human resources, facilities, and equipment. Aims: This paper seeks to answer the question of which eastern Mediterranean countries are more effective in allocating their health resources, and does Iran, in relation to those countries, have an effective health system. Methods: This study examined technical efficiency among eastern Mediterranean countries in 2018. Data were extracted from Global Health Observatory data World Health Organization. We applied input-oriented Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) models to estimate efficiency scores. Inputs are Physicians density per 10,000 populations, Total hospital beds per 10,000 populations, Current expenditure on health, % of gross domestic product and outputs are infant survival rate and Life expectancy. Results: The most efficient health systems in the eastern Mediterranean were Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Tunisia and the United Arab Emirates. The inefficient countries are Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Palestine and Saudi Arabia. Conclusions: Among the efficient countries, one category of high-entry countries such as Bahrain and Qatar with high input especially in health expenditure had higher output. The second group of countries with lower inputs such as Iran and Morocco has been able to produce similar output with other countries. Also, inefficiency in countries such as Saudi Arabia can be attributed to this with higher input such as health expenditure has lower output such life expectancy and infant survival rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A double-sided solar cell (a bifacial photovoltaic (PV) cell arrangement) consisting of two back-to-back silicon photovoltaic cells is examined in this paper, and compared with a Monofacial cell. It was installed on a two-axis solar tracker. Temperature and radiation were monitored on sunny noonday in El-Marg city, Libya. The purpose of this investigation is to demonstrate the generation and matching of bifacial solar cells made by back-stacking two monoclinic solar cells. The face in the front accepts direct solar radiation, while the face in the back accepts indirect solar radiation that is reproduced from the ground, clouds, and surrounding buildings. The chief focus is on determining how ambient temperature affects the performance of bifacial photovoltaic panels. On two hot summer days in Al-Marg city, important photovoltaic parameters of the binary system (short-circuit photocurrent density, open circuit photovoltaic voltage, maximum power conversion efficiency) was verified. The PV performance of each individual cell shows remarkable variability with the movement of the tracer to the effect of radiation and the surface temperature of each cell. The results showed that the back cell performs better than the front cell. Although the back cell was exposed to fewer illuminations, it provided the front with higher power conversion efficiency than the front cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the role of civil-military relations in the disparate outcomes of two Arab-spring countries: Tunisia and Libya. Applying paradigms developed by Serra, Schedler, and Matei, the paper explores the state of civil-military relations before, during, and after the Arab spring and shows that civil-military relations were a key variable in the outcomes. The findings demonstrate the importance of international military education and training efforts in developing countries as a hedge against instability. The global community has an important role to play in helping to professionalize military forces around the world and improve civil-military relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aims to describe the Libyan oral health care system in terms of its structure, function, workforce, funding, reimbursement and target groups. Methods: A single descriptive case study approach and multiple sources of data collection were used to provide an in-depth understanding of the Libyan oral health care system. A purposeful sample of the key informants (Managers of oral health centers, dentists of various specialties with experience in the field, dentists, nurses, dental technicians, and officials in the affairs of medical insurance) was recruited. The case and its boundaries were guided by the study's aim. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data. Framework analysis, informed by the study objectives, was used to analyze interviews and documents. Results: The analysis showed that oral health services are integrated into medical services. The provision of dental care is mainly treatment-based, in the private sector. The oral health services in the public sector are mainly emergency care and exodontia. The dental workforce included in the study were mostly dentists (89% General Dental Practitioners (GDPs), 11% specialists), with a marked deficiency in dental technicians and nurses. Around 40% of dentists work in both the private and public sectors. The government provides the funding for the public sector, but the private sector is self-funded. No specific target group(s) nor clear policies were reported. However, the system is built around primary health care as an overarching policy. Dental caries is the most common oral problem among Libyan preschool children affecting around 70% and is the most common cause of tooth loss among adults. Conclusion: The oral health care system in Libya is mainly privatized. The public health services are poorly organized and malfunctioning. There is an urgent need to develop policies and plans to improve the oral health care system in Libya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Engineering (17264073) is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Studies and research reveal that most English language learners (ELLs) encounter challenges when they write an academic paper in English due to lack of grammar. As most international universities require passing international tests as TOEFL, IELTS, GMAT, GRE, and other tests with high level, most international students fail to achieve this requirement. The reason, as some studies and research reveal, is attributed to lack of pedagogical grammar, namely in writing. Hence, this paper focuses on how to teach pedagogical grammar to help ELLs write effectively in academic situations. The paper is based on literature review and interviewing nine ELLs, regarding the challenges they encounter while writing in academic situations. The researcher has used qualitative research method to fulfill this study, trying to investigate about the challenges that ELLs encounter while writing in academic situations. This study is directed to explore whether teaching pedagogical grammar is helpful to enhance and enrich ELLs academic writing or not. Findings of this study show that ELLs encounter challenges in writing in academic contexts due to lack of grammar. The findings also show that lack of pedagogical grammar results in low level of grades and achievement in the four language skills, namely writing. This study also provides recommendations that might be used to further investigate and provide some strategies, regarding teaching pedagogical grammar in writing contexts to enhance ELLs academic writing.