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This study aimed to assess the protective effects of the Olive Leaf Extract (OLE) against Mancozeb (MZB)-induced reproductive damage in male NMRI mice. In this experimental study, NMRI mice were randomly divided into 7 groups (n = 8) including 1: control, 2: MZB, 3: MZB + OLE (200 mg/kg), 4: MZB + OLE (400 mg/kg), 5: MZB + atropine (0.25 mg/kg), 6: OLE (200 mg/kg) and 7: OLE (400 mg/kg). Mice were sacrificed after 5 weeks, and blood samples were drawn to measure serum testosterone level. Sperm samples were collected and analyzed according to standard criteria. The left testis was removed to assess testicular parameters using HE protamine level, DNA fragmentation (SCD1, SCD3, and SCD4), and testosterone levels compared to the groups (p Results showed that oral administration of OLE could be useful in ameliorating MZB induced toxicity in the reproductive system of male mice within 200 mg/kg dosage; while OLE 400 mg/kg probably could exacerbate the harmful effects.

Aspen Plus v8.8 was used to perform techno-economic analysis (TEA) of a CO2 capture process from a typical fuel gas stream in a 543-MW pre-combustion power plant using five different physical solvents (Selexol, PEGPDMS-1, NMP, [aPy][Tf2N] and [hmim][Tf2N]). The process included a countercurrent packed-bed absorber operating under high-pressure over a wide range of temperatures and three pressure-swing flash drums for solvent regeneration. Two packings, Mellapak 250Y and IMTP50, were used and the Levelized costs of CO2 captured (LCOC) were calculated. The simulation results indicated that using Mellapak 250Y exhibited lower LCOC values than those when using IMTP50 for the five solvents under all conditions used as it offered better mass transfer. The CO2 capture process carried out at low temperatures showed lower LCOC values than those at higher temperatures due to the increased CO2 solubility in the solvents at lower temperatures, requiring smaller absorber diameter and lower solvent circulation rates, which offset the cooling requirements. Comparing the lowest LCOC values for the five solvents, the hydrophobic PEGPDMS-1 solvent was the most promising one compared to the other four solvents, due to its lowest capital and operating costs and noncorrosive, which enabled using less expensive materials for the process equipment.

Ziziphus mauritiana grafted plants were introduced to Kuwait recently for fruit production. The introduced plants started producing stem galls. These galls in Z. mauritiana were caused by the infection of mites. This infection occurred only in Z. mauritiana grafted plants. While evaluating few tissue culture derived Z. mauritiana in the field, the authors noticed plants that were resistant to the stem gall infection. The shoot tips from the resistant plants were cultured in vitro using Murashige and Skoog (MS) culture media containing 1 mg L-1 BA for 30 days, and the plants were multiplied using MS culture medium containing 0.1 mg L-1 BA through stem node culture. Rooting of the plantlets was achieved by culturing the shoots in half strength MS media containing 0.1 mg L-1 NAA. Rooted plantlets were acclimatized using photoautotrophic culture method and transferred to the field for evaluation. The micropropagated plants from the stem gall resistant plant were found to be resistant to the stem gall infection. Micropropagation technique can be used for multiplying disease resistant Ziziphus plants in large numbers within limited time duration. The result of this study are discussed in this report.

Objectives We aim to develop consensus recommendations to guide neurologists in the community for the diagnosis and treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Methods After reviewing the available literature, a group of neurologists with expertise in MS met to discuss the evidence and develop consensus recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of MS. Results The revised 2010 McDonald criteria is the established diagnostic criteria for MS and has wide international acceptance among international MS experts. Several red flags in the history and examination, along with certain laboratory tests were pointed out to exclude MS mimickers in the diagnostic phase. The available approved disease modifying therapies (DMTs) were listed in an algorithmic fashion based on initial assessment of disease severity and subsequent disease breakthrough while on DMTs. Risk stratification based on the benefit versus risk ratio was used to help choosing the appropriate therapy to MS patients using an “individualized therapy” approach. The requirements for initiation and monitoring of treated MS patients were highlighted with emphasis on early identification of disease breakthrough, adverse events, and safety concerns. The role of multi-disciplinary MS clinics was discussed and a guide for referral to specialized MS clinics was developed. Conclusions Consensus recommendations have been developed to guide local neurologists on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with MS. Implementation of the revised 2010 McDonald diagnostic criteria was advised while a personalized treatment approach was recommended using a treatment algorithm based on risk stratification and patient-centered outcomes.

Congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) is the third most common congenital musculoskeletal anomaly seen in children. It is a condition in which the affected sternocleidomastoid muscle becomes a fibrosed cord with associated shortening of the muscle. This leads to an ipsilateral side tilt of the neck and contralateral rotation of the face and chin to the other side. Apart from surgery various other treatment modalities are used to treat this condition. We present two siblings of Sudanese nationality with manifestation of Congenital Muscular Torticollis, a male child and female child at the age of 12 and 10 years respectively. Both had CMT of the right sternomastoid muscle. Both were delivered normally. They did not undergo any form of physiotherapy or surgical procedure since birth. Because of this neglected circumstances, the facial asymmetry and deformity were severe. Both the siblings were operated in our hospital with satisfactory result on follow up. Management for CMT starts during the early infancy and physiotherapy is the main treatment for this condition. But some of these CMT children may need surgical intervention to prevent further deterioration of cranial deformity and facial asymmetry. If these children are neglected and present later in life, they will have severe facial deformity with its associated sequelae. These patients are usually managed by other specialities worldwide. But awareness of these conditions is required among paediatric surgeons, as some of these children may be referred to them for treatment. In our case report we have also described various other modalities of treatment for this condition.

Objectives: Analysis and review of the public health policies implemented by Qatar, contributing to improvised outcomes in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. Study Design: A wide range of responses from public health departments and governments around the world has led to varied results in tackling the pandemic. We analysed the public health policies implemented in Qatar to curb the spread of Covid-19, taking into consideration the roles of various departments including the Ministry of Public Health, primary and secondary health care services, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Interior. Methods: We looked at how Qatar has implemented its public health policies and managed to curb the COVID-19 outbreak very effectively and efficiently in spite of having the highest number of COVID-19 positive patients per million population in the world. We evaluated the information which is available publicly on the official websites of the various organizations involved. Results: The implementation of their policies has resulted in the country recording one of the lowest mortality rates in the world with excellent patient outcomes. Qatar has also succeeded in preventing to a large extent, the second wave of COVID-19 in dealing with the pandemic. Conclusion: We recommend similar measures to successfully help slow the transmission of COVID-19 and protect healthcare systems around the world. It's pertinent to continue community awareness regarding infection control and prevention measures as well as strengthening surveillance systems and mobilising all available sectors early in the course of a pandemic. This helps reduce morbidity and mortality of the vulnerable population as well as enables the frontline workers who are doing the best they can, to protect the people of the country.

Proppant fracturing treatments in sandstone formations are routinely executed in Kuwait, however when carbonate formations are the target, acid fracturing is the preferred treatment method. It has been observed that acid fracturing delivers a high initial production however maintaining a sustainable production rate is a challenge in the tight cretaceous carbonate formations in Kuwait. A production enhancement technique needed to be identified in order to deliver more sustainable production and maximize recovery from these carbonate formations.Based on global experience it was proposed that proppant fracturing can deliver more sustainable production rate as compared to acid fracturing.Proppant fracturing had been previously attempted on two occasions in Kuwait, however both the attempts were evaluated as not being operationally successful. Hence prior to executing the first successful proppant fracturing treatment in carbonates in Kuwait a thorough study was undertaken to identify and mitigate the possible risks.The cretaceous carbonate formations in North Kuwait are relatively shallow and are known to be tight and highly ductile. Due to the ductility of these formations, proppant placement and reduction of the fracture conductivity due proppant embedment were thought to be significant risks. During the course of the project, detailed core analysis and testing was conducted using formation core samples to ascertain the severity of this risk.Successful execution of this hydraulic fracturing treatment was pivotal in order to plan the future production strategies from these formations. A cautious approach needed to be followed as proppant placement was of paramount importance. Different strategies were incorporated in the fracturing workflow to ensure the success of the treatment and to maximize data collection in order to optimize future treatments and well placement. Multiple mini-fracs, temperature logs and pumping of novel non-radioactive tracer proppant were some of the techniques utilized.During execution various decisions were taken real-time to ensure success of the treatment. It was observed that all parameters were consistent with the results of the core and laboratory testing conducted during the initial phase of the project which lead to optimizing the proppant placement.The success of this treatment has been a game changer resulting in more wells being identified as candidates for proppant fracturing in this field.Now that proppant placement has been established the objective of future treatments is to optimize fracture designs, fluids and treatment schedules which will help the future production enhancement strategy for this field.Lessons learnt from this first successful well will be applied to future wells planned in carbonate reservoirs in Kuwait, in order to maximize recovery.

Background Owing to the revolution in technology, the internet has become an important aspect of people’s lives. Modern technology is enabling people from diverse educational backgrounds to use the internet for several purposes, one of which is health information seeking. Recently, Web-based health information has become more popular among patients all over the world and among the general public. Objective This study aimed to investigate the use of Web-based health resources among undergraduate students from different faculties at Kuwait University. Methods The study employed a cross-sectional design with students selected from 8 faculties of Kuwait University, 4 faculties of Literature and 4 faculties of Science. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, and analysis was done using a chi-square test and binary logistic regression to determine the factors associated with seeking health information on the Web. Results The sample size obtained was 1132 with a response rate of 90.27% (1132/1254). Overall, the prevalence of students seeking Web-based health information was 92.66%. (1049/1132) The most significant factors associated with seeking health information on the Web were age, gender, faculty, year of study, primary source of internet, and level of experience with internet use. In total, 90.0% (325/361) of students who were aged older than 21 years used Web-based health information compared with 82.8% (275/332) of those who were aged 18 years. In addition, female students showed a higher prevalence (829/934, 88.8%) of Web-based health information seeking than males (210/270, 77.8%). Students who majored in faculties of Science were more likely to seek health information than those who majored in faculties of Literature. All the differences found in the study were statistically significant (P Conclusions The study concluded that many people use the internet for seeking health information. Sociodemographic factors have a significant association with Web-based health information seeking. Therefore, doctors must educate the public about the health information websites that can be trusted.

Heterogeneity across the producing interval is typical in oil and gas wells; it is rare to find uniform production distribution or fluid injection across a substantially long interval. Hence, diversion during matrix acidizing is critical, especially if the downhole pressure and/or temperature are high. In two Kuwait Jurassic fields, two wells were completed in an over 100 ft producing interval across a carbonate reservoir. Reservoir temperature is 280°F, and the estimated reservoir pressure is 11,000 psi. Multiple matrix acidizing trials to enhance well productivity have been performed with conventional diversion techniques and, as indicated by the surface pressure response, were not effective. This requires an adequately engineered near wellbore diversion system that can overcome the challenge of these bottomhole conditions and form a uniform production distribution across a substantially long heterogeneous interval. A new methodology was applied in two Jurassic wells that combined a multimodal blend of biodegradable particulates and fibers as a chemical diverter, and emulsified acids as main fluids for a matrix stimulation. In each diversion stage, the change in surface pressure ranged from 800 to 1,000 psi after the diversion pill hit the perforation tunnel. Moreover, a clear signature of diversion was demonstrated in the instantaneous shutin pressures. In another Kuwait field, the diversion pill was tested by using injectivity logging tests to monitor the changes in injectivity across the perforated interval during an acid fracturing treatment in comparison to the earlier injection profile. A remarkable change in injection was observed and a total of 80% change in the injection profile was quantified from before and after the diversion. The diversion pill is relatively small in volume and is easy and safe to handle. Fibers help to maintain the carrying capacity and allow safe landing of the biodegradable material to the formation face. Only a few barrels are required to plug the opened or stimulated interval, and the method allows the following stimulation stage to treat the subsequent interval. The first well revealed a 330% and 110% production increase in gas and oil rates, respectively. The production was set as one of the highest producers in the field. The second well yielded a 320% increase in total production, which set the highest record for the field. The new method is proved to be highly effective in terms of wellbore coverage, and highest production records in the field after matrix acidizing treatments.

The proper fracture stimulation of high-pressure/high-temperature (HP/HT) carbonate formations completed with horizontal wellbores is a challenging task for any operator or service company, particularly because of concerns associated with HP/HT, acid reactivity, completion and production equipment corrosion, and acid distribution. The case history presented in this paper describes the performance of an acid fracture intervention in a HP/HT well where, because of a number of problems encountered during the well construction stage, this intervention was the last procedure considered to evaluate the productivity of a Marrat formation well. In view of the stimulation challenges encountered, the architecture of the wellbore, and the intervention stimulation requirement to evaluate the productivity of the horizontal well completed in the Marrat formation, it was necessary to change the proppant fracture stimulation technique originally planned. Instead, it was decided that a selective acid fracture stimulation would be performed in the prospective part of the horizontal section where three long perforation clusters had been placed. Acidizing fracture stimulation was performed in one intervention using a next-generation liquid and soluble solid diversion system that enabled the generation of one selective fracture per perforation cluster. The planned acidizing fracture stimulation process was implemented properly in the field in accordance with the design constraints. The reactive fluid system diversion and the generation of a new fracture when the diversion system reached the perforation were clearly observed. The post-acid fractured well productivity index (PI) showed the high quality of the stimulation performed in a challenging environment, demonstrating the effectiveness of the new diversion system for creating selective fractures in a horizontal wellbore with multiple perforation clusters. Considering the well's architecture, HP/HT nature, and single intervention requirement, the case study documented in the paper can be helpful in the decision-making process when selecting a proper stimulation technique for challenging conditions. The effectiveness of the new diversion systems is also discussed.

Changes in ownership, governance, and objectives of stock exchanges significantly impact on stock market growth indicators such as number of listed companies, number of transactions in equity market, stock index, and market capitalization.

Gardner syndrome, also known as familial colorectal polyposis, is an autosomal dominant disease and is part of the spectrum of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) syndromes. It is characterized by the presence of multiple polyps in the colon together with neoplasms outside the colon. Gardner syndrome is also associated with desmoid tumors in approximately 15% of affected individuals. Desmoid tumors are rare benign slow-growing neoplasms, arising from connective tissue (musculoaponeurotic fibrous tissue). Due to their locally aggressive nature, the term aggressive fibromatosis have been used to describe these tumors. Seven percent of patients with FAP or its variants may also have adrenal masses, most being benign and asymptomatic. We report the PET/CT of a 42 year old patient who was diagnosed with Gardner syndrome, demonstrating the rare coexistence of the intestinal polyps, extra and intra-abdominal desmoids and adrenal adenoma by PET/CT. In addition, the characteristic cutaneous lesions and osteomas of the skull were also identified.

Background: Public health campaigns are focused on promoting increased vegetable and fruit (VF) consumption due to their association with health. Although the number of suggested portions is generally known to children in the UK, knowledge of what counts and what doesn’t count as a portion of these foods is not clear. We aimed to develop and test a succinct intervention about what constitutes a portion of VF. Methods: A succinct (45min.) teaching intervention regarding VF portion sizes; including pre- and post evaluations though a structured questionnaire, demonstrations with real-life models and hands-on examination of portions, oral communications and active engagement in the form of entertainment, was carried out with boys and girls (7-9 years, n=80) in various primary schools in Leeds. Activities included a question and answer session and individual and group competitions to confirm acquired knowledge. Results: Initial knowledge was acceptable, with 85% of them being aware of the UK recommendations from the 5-a-day program. Knowledge of portion sizes was minimal with only 2% of the participants being able to correctly identify the corresponding portion sizes of apples, juice, grapes, peas and broccoli. The acquired knowledge from the teaching intervention was statistically significant (p=.000). Previous knowledge was higher among girls (86% vs. 84% respectively) and acquired knowledge among boys (93% vs. 88% respectively) although gender differences were not significant. Conclusions: A succinct teaching intervention might be a feasible way to increase knowledge of VF portion sizes among primary school aged children.

E-learning is a technological innovation that associates technology with learning, and influences a person's behaviour and how they perform their work. It is argued that, although Kuwait University (KU) implemented an e-learning system in 2004, the potential benefits of e-learning, in serving KU’s strategic objectives, has not yet been reached. This empirical study aims to investigate KU instructors’ perspectives toward the use of e-learning since their acceptance of the system is essential for the success of KU initiative. The study has applied Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Davis, 1989), with the objective to support the model with refined external factors drawn from KU’s environment, and to explore the effect of these factors on core TAM constructs, namely; Perceived Usefulness (PU) and Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) and also to explore the implication on the outcome instructors’ Attitude (ATT) toward the use of e-learning at KU. The final external factors included in the research model are Computer Self-Efficacy (CSE), Technical Support (TS) and University Strategic Focus (USF). The study has adopted the pragmatic methodology with a mixture of quantitative and qualitative approaches, in a triangulated formation of data collection, through a questionnaire, semi-structured, and unstructured, interviews, and focus group discussions. The responses of 268 instructors to the survey questionnaire form the basis for the quantitative analysis. The responses of 12 assistant Deans, department heads and e-learning administration staff, 24 instructors, and the results from 2 focus group discussions, form the basis for the qualitative analysis. Based on the analysis of outcomes, it is found that TAM is a valid and applicable acceptance model in the case of KU’s e-learning system, and in line with previous TAM studies, in which the instructors’ PU of e-learning directly affects their ATT toward the use of the system. Also, the instructors’ PEOU is found through PU to indirectly affect their ATT. In addition, CSE has a significant effect on PU, but less so on PEOU, and, indirectly so, on ATT. Also, a significant effect is found, of TS on PU and in less magnitude on PEOU, and, indirectly on ATT. USF is found to have insignificant effects on PU and a weak effect on PEOU. Moreover, based on the qualitative analysis findings, USF is argued, to be the factor resulting in the most negative attitude toward the use of e-learning by KU instructors. This is due to three causes: Poor policy setting, lack of motivation measures, and ineffective training. Keywords: Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Computer Self-Efficacy, Technical Support, University Strategic Focus, E-learning Policy, Kuwait University.

The use of VLE has been increased, because of the Technology Tsunami. The KOC Geo-Portal (SAHALA) has many applications, tools, reports, customized tasks, workflows and so on, which needs further training or familiarization on demand for every user. Most of the users need to have a training on many applications, thus huge allocation of the time (man days/employee). The conventional (dedicated) training leads to considerable time loss which affects the performance of the whole company. This is why we initiate this way of training (on Demand/On the Job) using the new technology to enable the user to be familiar or get training on his specific points even within the application itself or different application.

Background. Angiofibroma is a benign tumor, consisting of fibrous tissue with varying degrees of vascularity, characterized by proliferation of stellate and spindle cells around the blood vessels. It most commonly arises from the nasopharynx, although it may rarely arise in extranasopharyngeal sites. Case Report. A 46-year-old male presented with left side nasal obstruction and epistaxis for one month. Clinical nasal examination revealed left sided polypoidal mass arising from the vestibular region of the lateral nasal wall. Results. CT scan and MRI showed highly vascular soft tissue mass occupying the anterior part of the left nostril. Preoperative selective embolization followed by transnasal excision was performed. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnoses of nasal vestibular angiofibroma. Conclusion. Extranasopharyngeal angiofibroma is a very rare pathology. It should be kept in mind as a differential diagnosis with any unilateral nasal vestibular mass causing nasal obstruction and epistaxis. A biopsy without further investigation can cause life threatening bleeding in the patient.

Lack of food composition data, recipe information and portion sizes for ethnic foods are commonly reported problems for dietary assessment of ethnic minority groups. One of the main aims of this study was to use food composition data to validate portion sizes, identify important sources of nutrients and describe the characteristics of the South Asian diet. The top five ethnic foods containing highest levels of selected nutrients were lamb balti (3mg/100g iron), lamb kebab (3.2mg/100g zinc), mixed dhal (62μg/100g folate), fish curry (1.4μg/100g vitamin D), ghee (968μg/100g retinol) and toor dhal (9.1g/100g dietary fibre). Typical adult South Asian diets included traditional cereals (chapatti, rice and paratha) and low consumption of meat dishes; with vegetable curries contributing most towards energy intake. A higher consumption of full fat milk and fruit juices by toddlers and school children were observed when compared with the National Diet and Nutrition Survey of the UK.

Metabolic bone disease due to hyperparathyroidism is characterized by increased bone resorption and new bone formation. (99m)Tc- hexakis-2-methoxyisobutylisonitrile ((99m)Tc MIBI) accumulation is controlled by metabolic function and cell viability. To investigate, for the first time, the potential of whole body (99m)Tc MIBI scan for detecting, visually and with the aid of quantitative analysis, bony changes associated with hyperparathyroidism. Eighty-six patients with hyperparathyroidism, referred routinely for parathyroid localization, were included in this case-control prospective study. Each patient was injected with 20-25 mCi of (99m)Tc MIBI. Routine anterior cervico-thoracic images were obtained for parathyroid localization. Two extra whole body images were acquired and assessed visually and by drawing regions of interest over the mandible, sternum, femur, humeri, spine, and the soft tissue adjacent to the bone. The ratios of bone to soft tissue were calculated and compared to ratios drawn in a control group routinely referred for cardiac imaging and injected with (99m)Tc MIBI, after confirming the absence of any bone disease. The visual interpretation of the scans showed 48 patients to have increased bone uptake. Quantitative assessment showed significant difference between the mean ratios of the case and control groups. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed significant agreement between visual and quantitative ratios drawn from delayed right and left femora and left humerus images (P < 0.05). (99m)Tc MIBI whole body imaging is a potentially useful technique for assessing metabolic bone disease associated with hyperparathyroidism. Quantitative analysis helped in confirming the visual findings.

The following is an exploratory study of the attitudes toward achievement motivation among Kuwaiti social workers. A number of factors are explored, including attitudes toward collaboration and its relationship to achievement. No studies have been conducted in Kuwait regarding factors of motivation and collaboration among social workers in different organizations, or its relation to their achievement. Participants were a convenience sample of 313 social workers from various institutions in Kuwait. Results of the study indicated that years of experience, age, and number of children correlated positively with the social worker motivation towards achievement. Additionally attitude toward collaboration, number of children, and income were significant predictors of social worker achievement motivation. Suggestions for future research are discussed.