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31 pages, 2533 KB  
Review
Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism Performance Measurements
by Naya Nagy, Sarah Alnemer, Lama Mohammed Alshuhail, Haifa Alobiad, Tala Almulla, Fatima Ahmed Alrumaihi, Najd Ghadra and Marius Nagy
Sci 2025, 7(3), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/sci7030091 - 1 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6492
Abstract
Key exchange mechanisms are foundational to secure communication, yet traditional methods face challenges from quantum computing. The Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism (ML-KEM) is a post-quantum cryptographic key exchange protocol with unknown successful quantum vulnerabilities. This study evaluates the ML-KEM using experimental benchmarks. We implement [...] Read more.
Key exchange mechanisms are foundational to secure communication, yet traditional methods face challenges from quantum computing. The Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism (ML-KEM) is a post-quantum cryptographic key exchange protocol with unknown successful quantum vulnerabilities. This study evaluates the ML-KEM using experimental benchmarks. We implement the ML-KEM in Python for clarity and in C++ for performance, demonstrating the latter’s substantial performance improvements. The C++ implementation achieves microsecond-level execution times for key generation, encapsulation, and decapsulation. Python, while slower, provides a user-friendly introduction to the ML-KEM’s operation. Moreover, our Python benchmark confirmed that the ML-KEM consistently outperformed RSA in execution speed across all tested parameters. Beyond benchmarking, the ML-KEM is shown to handle the computational hardness of the Module Learning With Errors (MLWE) problem, ensuring resilience against quantum attacks, classical attacks, and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based attacks, since the ML-KEM has no pattern that could be detected. To evaluate its practical feasibility on constrained devices, we also tested the C++ implementation on a Raspberry Pi 4B, representing IoT use cases. Additionally, we attempted to run integration and benchmark tests for the ML-KEM on microcontrollers such as the ESP32 DevKit, ESP32 Super Mini, ESP8266, and Raspberry Pi Pico, but these trials were unsuccessful due to memory constraints. The results showed that while the ML-KEM can operate effectively in such environments, only devices with sufficient resources and runtimes can support its computational demands. While resource-intensive, the ML-KEM offers scalable security across diverse domains such as IoT, cloud environments, and financial systems, making it a key solution for future cryptographic standards. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computer Sciences, Mathematics and AI)
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27 pages, 49527 KB  
Article
Analyzing Recent Tectonic Activity Along the Karak Wadi Al Fayha Fault System Using Seismic, Earthquake, and Remote Sensing Data
by Mu’ayyad Al Hseinat, Malek AlZidaneen and Ghassan Sweidan
Geosciences 2025, 15(5), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15050177 - 14 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2795
Abstract
The Karak Wadi Al Fayha Fault (KWF) is a major NW-trending intraplate wrench fault system extending over 325 km from Western Karak in Jordan to Wadi Al Fayha in Saudi Arabia. Structurally linked to the Precambrian Najd Fault System, the KWF has been [...] Read more.
The Karak Wadi Al Fayha Fault (KWF) is a major NW-trending intraplate wrench fault system extending over 325 km from Western Karak in Jordan to Wadi Al Fayha in Saudi Arabia. Structurally linked to the Precambrian Najd Fault System, the KWF has been previously mapped using field observations, gravity, magnetic, and reflection seismic methods. However, these approaches lacked the vertical resolution necessary to characterize its shallow structure, leaving its influence on recent deposits and surface topography poorly understood. This study employs reflection seismic sections integrated with a Digital Elevation Model to refine terrain analysis and enhance fault mechanism solutions for determining the regional stress field pattern. Our results provide compelling evidence of the KWF’s upward propagation into the surface, as demonstrated by deformation of the uppermost Cretaceous and Cenozoic successions, distinct geomorphic features in the Digital Elevation Model, alignment of earthquake epicenters along the fault, and active landslides associated with its movement. We suggest that the reactivation of the KWF has been influenced by changing stress fields from the Late Cretaceous (Turonian) to the present. The Northwestern Arabian plate has undergone multiple tectonic stress transitions, including WNW–ESE compression associated with the Syrian Arc Fold-Belt system (Turonian–Plio-Pleistocene) and subsequent NNE–SSW extension linked to Red Sea rifting (Neogene–present). The analysis of fault mechanism solutions suggests that the latest fault movements result from the continued activity of the Irbid Rift event (Eocene) and the Dead Sea Transform Fault since the Miocene. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applied Geophysics for Geohazards Investigations)
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38 pages, 5716 KB  
Article
Machine Learning Approach for Assessment of Compressive Strength of Soil for Use as Construction Materials
by Yassir M. H. Mustafa, Yakubu Sani Wudil, Mohammad Sharif Zami and Mohammed A. Al-Osta
Eng 2025, 6(5), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng6050084 - 23 Apr 2025
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2739
Abstract
This study investigates the use of machine learning techniques to predict the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of both stabilized and unstabilized soils. This research focuses on analyzing key soil parameters that significantly impact the strength of earth materials, such as grain size distribution [...] Read more.
This study investigates the use of machine learning techniques to predict the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of both stabilized and unstabilized soils. This research focuses on analyzing key soil parameters that significantly impact the strength of earth materials, such as grain size distribution and Atterberg limits. Machine learning models, specifically Support Vector Regression (SVR) and Decision Trees (DT), were employed to predict UCS. Model performance was evaluated using key metrics, including the Pearson coefficient of correlation (r2), coefficient of determination (R2), mean absolute error, and root mean square error. The findings reveal that, for unstabilized soils, both SVR and DT models exhibit remarkable performance with r2 values of 0.9948 and 0.9947, respectively, with the DT model surpassing the SVR model in estimating UCS. Validation was conducted using data from four types of locally available soils in the Najd region of Saudi Arabia, although some disparities were noted between actual and predicted results due to limitations in the training data. The analysis indicates that, for unstabilized soil, grain size distribution and moisture content during testing are primary influencers of strength, whereas, for stabilized soil, factors such as stabilizer type and content, as well as density and moisture during testing, are pivotal. This research demonstrates the potential of machine learning for developing a robust classification system to enhance earth material utilization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical, Civil and Environmental Engineering)
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13 pages, 1214 KB  
Article
Clinical Pathologic Profiles of Helicobacter pylori Reveal Age-Specific Peaking with Concomitant Chronic Gastric Inflammation, Robust Immunity, and Tissue Alterations Implying Potential Predisposition to Malignancy in Ha’il, Saudi Arabia
by Kamaleldin B. Said, Khalid F. Alshammari, Safia Moussa, Ruba M. Elsaid Ahmed, Ahmed H. Aljadani, Najd B. Albalawi, Layan Al-Hujaili, Ruaa Alharbi, Arwa A. Alotaibi, Fahad M. Alshammary, Fayez R. Alfouzan, Zaid A. Albayih, Bader I. Alkharisi, Ghadah N. Alsdairi and Shumukh H. Alshubrami
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2643; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082643 - 11 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1938
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a significant global health issue causing chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric malignancies. Unfortunately, many, particularly in the Middle East, continue to exhibit alarming rates of prevalence. This study aimed to elucidate local epidemiological [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a significant global health issue causing chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric malignancies. Unfortunately, many, particularly in the Middle East, continue to exhibit alarming rates of prevalence. This study aimed to elucidate local epidemiological patterns of H. pylori and examine its histopathological impact on the gastric mucosa. Methods: This retrospective-cross-sectional study included 805 symptomatic adults (329 males, 476 females) who underwent endoscopic evaluation at King Salman Hospital, Ha’il, Saudi Arabia. Biopsies from the antrum and body were processed using routine formalin fixation and paraffin embedding. Staining with hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) and Giemsa permitted assessment of chronic gastritis and detection of H. pylori. Data were evaluated by IBM SPSS (version 23, IBM Corp., Armonk, NY) for associations among infection, histopathology, and patient characteristics. Results: A total of 727 (90.3%) were H. pylori-positive with marginally higher rates in females (91.2%) than males (89.0%). Infection spanned all age groups, reaching 100% in males aged 60–80 years. Overall chronic GI complications were identified in 726 (99.9%), with chronic gastritis being the most profound histopathologically (19.3%). Lymphoid aggregates in 93.0% biopsies reflected a pronounced immune response. Advanced lesions, including metaplasia (0.8%), atrophy (0.3%), and lymphoma (0.1%), were uncommon, though indicative of potential malignant progression. Despite both sexes exhibiting universal symptoms of gastritis, dyspepsia, and heartburn, there were no statistically significant gender-based differences (p > 0.05); specifically, post-H. pylori signs such as vomiting, nausea, weight loss, bleeding or hematemesis occurred equally in all. Histopathology consistently revealed chronic active gastritis with glandular distortion, lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, and occasional mucosal erosions. Giemsa staining further confirmed abundant spiral shapes underscoring a high bacterial load. Conclusion: These findings highlight the age-specific persistently elevating rates of H. pylori significantly associated with chronic gastric inflammatory complications. Although advanced gastric lesions remain rare, reflecting regional epidemiology, early screening, and sleeve treatment efforts, the potential for malignant transformation makes it imperative for continued vigorous eradication, therapy, and vigilant follow-up to avert severe disease outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advances in Gastrointestinal Inflammation)
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10 pages, 199 KB  
Article
Neonatal Red Blood Cell Transfusion Practices: A Multi-National Survey Study
by Hassan Al-shehri, Ghaida Ahmad Alghamdi, Ghaida Bander Alshabanat, Bayan Hussain Hazazi, Ghadah Saad Algoraini, Raghad Abdulaziz Alarfaj, Aroob M. Alromih, Najd Mabrouk Anad Alanazi, Raghad Mabrouk Anad Alanazi and Abdullah Alzayed
Healthcare 2025, 13(5), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13050568 - 6 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3128
Abstract
Background: Blood transfusion is a highly critical life-saving factor in neonates, especially in extremely low birth weight infants. There is a significant lack of consensus on optimal blood transfusion methods for neonates. Aim: To investigate and analyze blood transfusion practice in neonates among [...] Read more.
Background: Blood transfusion is a highly critical life-saving factor in neonates, especially in extremely low birth weight infants. There is a significant lack of consensus on optimal blood transfusion methods for neonates. Aim: To investigate and analyze blood transfusion practice in neonates among neonatologists and neonatal nurses in a multi-country pattern. Methods: From September 2023 to June 2024, a cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted to collect data on global blood transfusion practices in neonates. A questionnaire, developed through an extensive literature review, was distributed to neonatologists and neonatal nurses primarily via e-mail, with additional distribution via social media platforms. Results: This study included a total of 180 neonatologists and neonatal nurses from 27 different countries. Almost 37.7% were working in a level 3 NICU. Approximately 37.7% of the participants stated that they transfuse blood within three hours, and approximately 45.5% stated they usually use 15 mL/kg of blood. After receiving a transfusion, 99.4% of the participants mentioned that they continue to check the vital signs. More than half (72.2%) of NICU practitioners use filters when giving blood. Regarding written instructions and guidelines in the unit for blood transfusion, the majority (84.4%) stated having them in their units, of which, 86.8% mentioned that blood transfusion threshold stated in the guidelines either using hemoglobin or hematocrit. Conclusions: This study found variability in blood transfusion practices around the world. While most have developed neonatal blood transfusion guidelines, certain countries still lack national protocols. Establishing comprehensive guidelines is essential to standardizing procedures, thereby minimizing the risk of inappropriate or unsafe blood transfusions in this neonatology practice. Full article
21 pages, 3395 KB  
Article
Impact of Season on Chemical Composition of Some Medicinal Plants in Saudi Arabia
by Deema A. AlZunaydi, Abdulaziz B. Alharbi and Ahmed H. Alfarhan
Life 2025, 15(3), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030336 - 21 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1784
Abstract
Wadi Al-Rummah is one of the most important geographical phenomena in the Najd region of Saudi Arabia and is considered to be the largest and longest valley in the Arabian Peninsula, with most of its basin located in the Qassim region. This valley [...] Read more.
Wadi Al-Rummah is one of the most important geographical phenomena in the Najd region of Saudi Arabia and is considered to be the largest and longest valley in the Arabian Peninsula, with most of its basin located in the Qassim region. This valley is the habitat of diverse flora, including medicinal herbs, plants, and trees. Three plant species, namely, Capparis spinosa L., Haloxylon salicornicum, and Zygophyllum propinquum were selected for their phytochemical analyses. The effect of soil and climatic conditions on the plant metabolites was investigated. Plant samples were collected at the beginning of March (winter) and the end of August (summer) separately to evaluate the effect of climatic conditions on plant components and their medicinal value. Soil samples were also collected for analysis to find any correlation between plant components and soil composition. Soil and plant samples were collected during the late winter and late summer of the same year. Quantitative analyses of soil samples showed differences in soil phosphorus, iron, magnesium, and as well as pH. These elements were higher in winter than in summer. On the other hand, nitrogen and electrical conductivity were higher in summer. However, there were no significant differences between summer and winter for calcium, potassium, sodium, bulk density, and soil water content. Physiological and biochemical analyses on the aerial parts of the selected plants showed significant differences in carbohydrate content between summer and winter. In fact, they were higher in winter for all the plants studied. Lipid content was higher in summer than in winter. The protein contents of C. spinosa L. were 14% higher in winter, while those of H. salicornicum were 21% higher in summer. Z. propinquum proved to be the most salt-tolerant plant, followed by C. spinosa L. and H. salicornicum. The alkaloid and saponin content of the plants was higher in summer than in winter. There was no significant difference between summer and winter in the levels of phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the plants studied. Based on these results, seasonal changes appear to significantly affect certain medicinal compounds, while other compounds remain relatively constant throughout the year. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Science)
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23 pages, 9067 KB  
Article
Chemistry of Hydrothermally Destabilized Rare-Metal and Radioactive Minerals in Deformed A-Type Granite in the Vicinity of Nugrus Shear Zone, South Eastern Desert, Egypt
by Adel A. Surour, Amira M. El-Tohamy and Gehad M. Saleh
Resources 2025, 14(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010004 - 26 Dec 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2076
Abstract
In the Wadi Nugrus area, south Eastern Desert of Egypt, A-type granite is highly deformed in a prominent NW-SE trending shear zone, likely related to the Najd shear system. Deformation of this post-collisional leucogranite allows the propagation of hydrothermal alterations due to fluid [...] Read more.
In the Wadi Nugrus area, south Eastern Desert of Egypt, A-type granite is highly deformed in a prominent NW-SE trending shear zone, likely related to the Najd shear system. Deformation of this post-collisional leucogranite allows the propagation of hydrothermal alterations due to fluid circulation inside the so-called “Nugrus Shear Zone (NSZ)”. This results in the remarkable destabilization of the magmatic dissemination of rare-metal and U-Th minerals in the granite. Relict magmatic minerals that survived destabilization are represented by (1) ferrocolumbite with 14–63–16.39 wt% FeOt, (2) fresh igneous zircon, and (3) thorite. The destabilized ore minerals (hydrothermal) dominate over the fresh magmatic relict minerals. The former comprises the following: (1) altered columbite in the form of three distinct phases of niobates (fergusonite–petscheckite–uranopyrochlore), (2) altered thorite (Ce-bearing and P-F-rich), (3) betafite, (4) altered uranothorite, and (5) sulfides (mainly pyrite). It is evident that the destabilization of magmatic thorite can be distinguished into three stages of hydrothermal alteration, namely low-Zr Ce-bearing thorite (stage I), moderate-Zr Ce-bearing thorite (stage II), and high-Zr U-Nb-Y-bearing thorite (stage III). The two varieties of Ce-bearing thorite are sodic with 1.33–2.28 wt% and 1.51–1.80 wt% Na2O, respectively, whereas the U-Nb-Y-bearing thorite is Na2O-poor (0.06–0.07 wt%). Similarly, thorite in stages I and II are Ca-, P-, F-, and S-rich. Considerable P2O5 content (up to ~17 wt%) is reported in stage II Ce-bearing thorite, whereas stage III thorite is Si-rich (14.56–18.79 wt% SiO2). Upon hydrothermal destabilization, the three niobate minerals replacing the dissemination of magmatic ferrocolumbite become enriched in UO2 (up to 15.24 wt%, 7.86 wt%, and 10.88 wt%, respectively), and similarly, ThO2 (up to 7.13 wt%, 5.71 wt%, and 9.52 wt%, respectively). Hydrothermal destabilization results in the complete dissolution of magmatic fluorite and phosphate minerals at pH = 2–7. This furnishes a source of Ca, P, Ce, Y, F, and Cl in the hydrothermal solution to destabilize/collapse the structure of magmatic ore minerals, particularly ferrocolumbite and thorite. Free elements in the hydrothermal solution are responsible for the crystallization of P- and F-rich Ce-bearing thorite minerals in three stages, as well as abnormal Y2O3 enrichment in three resulting niobates that contain up to 6.03 wt%, 2.93 wt%, and 2.65 wt%, respectively. The fresh undeformed Nugrus leucogranite is sulfide-poor. In contrast, sulfides are enriched in the deformed leucogranite inside the NSZ. Also, the intimate relationship of sulfides with destabilized rare-element minerals indicates the destabilization of these minerals during the hydrothermal stage under reduced conditions. Finally, the proposed paragenetic sequence suggests that most ore minerals are magmatic or hydrothermal primarily. In contrast, supergene minerals such as goethite, Fe-oxyhydroxide, altered betafite, and altered uranothorite are the least abundant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Resource Management 2023: Assessment, Mining and Processing)
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18 pages, 4563 KB  
Article
Kashif: A Chrome Extension for Classifying Arabic Content on Web Pages Using Machine Learning
by Malak Aljabri, Hanan S. Altamimi, Shahd A. Albelali, Maimunah Al-Harbi, Haya T. Alhuraib, Najd K. Alotaibi, Amal A. Alahmadi, Fahd Alhaidari and Rami Mustafa A. Mohammad
Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(20), 9222; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14209222 - 11 Oct 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2423
Abstract
Search engines are significant tools for finding and retrieving information. Every day, many new web pages in various languages are added. The threats of cyberattacks are expanding rapidly with this massive volume of data. The majority of studies on the detection of malicious [...] Read more.
Search engines are significant tools for finding and retrieving information. Every day, many new web pages in various languages are added. The threats of cyberattacks are expanding rapidly with this massive volume of data. The majority of studies on the detection of malicious websites focus on English-language websites. This necessitates more studies on malicious detection on Arabic-content websites. In this research, we aimed to investigate the security of Arabic-content websites by developing a detection tool that analyzes Arabic content based on artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. We contributed to the field of cybersecurity and AI by building a new dataset of 4048 Arabic-content websites. We created and conducted a comparative performance evaluation for four different machine-learning (ML) models using feature extraction and selection techniques: extreme gradient boosting, support vector machines, decision trees, and random forests. The best-performing model was then integrated into a Chrome plugin, created based on a random forest (RF) model, and utilized the features selected via the chi-square technique. This produced plugin tool attained an accuracy of 92.96% for classifying Arabic-content websites as phishing, suspicious, or benign. To our knowledge, this is the first tool designed specifically for Arabic-content websites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data Mining and Machine Learning in Cybersecurity)
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11 pages, 456 KB  
Article
Bailout for the Difficult Gallbladder: Subtotal vs. Open Cholecystectomy—A Retrospective Tertiary Care Center Experience
by Abdullah Aloraini, Ahmed Alburakan, Fatimah Saad Alhelal, Ghada Alabdi, Hend Elmutawi, Najd Saeed Alzahrani, Sarah Alkhalife and Tariq Alanezi
Medicina 2024, 60(10), 1642; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60101642 - 8 Oct 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3128
Abstract
Background and Objectives: A difficult gallbladder anatomy augments the risk of bile duct injuries (BDIs) and other complications during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This study compares the outcomes of a laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy (LSTC) and open total cholecystectomy (OTC) for difficult cholecystectomies. Materials and [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: A difficult gallbladder anatomy augments the risk of bile duct injuries (BDIs) and other complications during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This study compares the outcomes of a laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy (LSTC) and open total cholecystectomy (OTC) for difficult cholecystectomies. Materials and Methods: This retrospective analysis of gallbladder procedures (LSTC or OTC) from 2016 to 2023 examined patient demographics, surgical details, and postoperative results. The primary outcome was the incidence of a BDI. Secondary outcomes included operative duration, blood loss, and postoperative complications. Results: Seventy-one patients were included in the study. Of them, 59.2% (n = 42) underwent an LSTC and 44.6% (n = 29) underwent an OTC. The LSTC cohort was more likely to have a day-surgery case with a same-day discharge (33.3% vs. 0%, p = 0.009), less blood loss (71.4 ± 82.26 vs. 184.8 ± 234.86, p = 0.009), and a shorter operative duration (187.86 ± 68.74 vs. 258.62 ± 134.52 min, p = 0.008). Furthermore, BDI was significantly lower in the LSTC group (2.4% vs. 17.2%, p = 0.045). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups concerning intraoperative drain placement, peri-cholecystic fluid collection, bile leak, and other complications (p > 0.05). Conclusions: LSTC is a safe and effective alternative to OTC for challenging gallbladder cases. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods as well as different study designs are warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Surgery)
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23 pages, 29093 KB  
Article
Utilizing the Google Earth Engine for Agricultural Drought Conditions and Hazard Assessment Using Drought Indices in the Najd Region, Sultanate of Oman
by Mohammed S. Al Nadabi, Paola D’Antonio, Costanza Fiorentino, Antonio Scopa, Eltaher M. Shams and Mohamed E. Fadl
Remote Sens. 2024, 16(16), 2960; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs16162960 - 12 Aug 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5280
Abstract
Accurately evaluating drought and its effects on the natural environment is difficult in regions with limited climate monitoring stations, particularly in the hyper-arid region of the Sultanate of Oman. Rising global temperatures and increasing incidences of insufficient precipitation have turned drought into a [...] Read more.
Accurately evaluating drought and its effects on the natural environment is difficult in regions with limited climate monitoring stations, particularly in the hyper-arid region of the Sultanate of Oman. Rising global temperatures and increasing incidences of insufficient precipitation have turned drought into a major natural disaster worldwide. In Oman, drought constitutes a major threat to food security. In this study, drought indices (DIs), such as temperature condition index (TCI), vegetation condition index (VCI), and vegetation health index (VHI), which integrate data on drought streamflow, were applied using moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) data and the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform to monitor agricultural drought and assess the drought risks using the drought hazard index (DHI) during the period of 2001–2023. This approach allowed us to explore the spatial and temporal complexities of drought patterns in the Najd region. As a result, the detailed analysis of the TCI values exhibited temporal variations over the study period, with notable minimum values observed in specific years (2001, 2005, 2009, 2010, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021), and there was a discernible trend of increasing temperatures from 2014 to 2023 compared to earlier years. According to the VCI index, several years, including 2001, 2003, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, were characterized by mild drought conditions. Except for 2005 and 2007, all studied years were classified as moderate drought years based on the VHI index. The Pearson correlation coefficient analysis (PCA) was utilized to observe the correlation between DIs, and a high positive correlation between VHI and VCI (0.829, p < 0.01) was found. Based on DHI index spatial analysis, the northern regions of the study area faced the most severe drought hazards, with severity gradually diminishing towards the south and east, and approximately 44% of the total area fell under moderate drought risk, while the remaining 56% was classified as facing very severe drought risk. This study emphasizes the importance of continued monitoring, proactive measures, and effective adaptation strategies to address the heightened risk of drought and its impacts on local ecosystems and communities. Full article
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38 pages, 14520 KB  
Article
Mineralogy and Geochemistry of Titaniferous Iron Ores in El-Baroud Layered Gabbros: Fe-Ti Ore Genesis and Tectono-Metallogenetic Setting
by Mohamed Zaki Khedr, Ahmed Moftah, N. H. El-Shibiny, Akihiro Tamura, Wei Tan, Yuji Ichiyama, Eiichi Takazawa, Ali Y. Kahal and Kamal Abdelrahman
Minerals 2024, 14(7), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14070679 - 29 Jun 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2997
Abstract
The Neoproterozoic pyroxene gabbros and gabbronorites in the El-Baroud mafic intrusion in the Northern Eastern Desert (NED) of Egypt host Fe-Ti oxide ore deposits. This study discusses the major and trace elements of both titaniferous iron ores and their host rocks, along with [...] Read more.
The Neoproterozoic pyroxene gabbros and gabbronorites in the El-Baroud mafic intrusion in the Northern Eastern Desert (NED) of Egypt host Fe-Ti oxide ore deposits. This study discusses the major and trace elements of both titaniferous iron ores and their host rocks, along with the mineral chemistry (major and in situ trace elements) of interstitial clinopyroxene (Cpx), to gain a deeper understanding of the Fe-Ti oxide genesis. These ores occur as disseminated (55–60 vol.% of Fe-Ti oxides) and massive types (85–95 vol.%) in the form of the dyke, layer, and lens. They are composed of titanomagnetite (80–87 vol.%) with subordinate ilmenite (10–15 vol.%) and magnetite (3–5 vol.%), in accordance with their high Fe2O3 (75.66 wt.% on average) and TiO2 contents (16.30–17.60 wt.%). The Cpx in the investigated ores is diopside composition (Mg#; 0.72–0.83) and exhibits a nearly convex upward REE pattern, similar to Cpxs in the ferropicrite that originated from the primitive mantle. Melts in equilibrium with this Cpx resemble Greenstone ferropicrite melts; the parent melt of El-Baroud gabbros is possibly a ferropicritic melt that was derived from the lithospheric mantle during plume interaction. The El-Baroud gabbroic rocks were generated during the arc rifting and crystallized under a high oxygen fugacity at a temperature of 800–1000 °C and a pressure of 3 kbar with a depth of 12 km. The Fe-Ti oxide ores have been formed from ferropicritic parent melts by two processes, including in situ crystallization that leads to the formation of disseminated Fe-Ti oxides in the iron-rich gabbros at the bottom and liquid immiscibility that is responsible for the formation of thick Fe-Ti ore lenses and layers at the top of the gabbroic intrusion. Initially, titanomagnetite crystallized from the primary Ti-rich oxide melt. As cooling progressed, some of the excess titanium in this melt was exsolved in the form of the exsolution ilmenite lamellae within the titanomagnetite. The Fe-Ti oxide layers in the NED follow the trend of NW-SE (Najd trend), where their distribution is possibly controlled by the composition of parent melts (rich in Ti and Fe), high oxygen fugacity, and the structure related to the Najd fault system. The distribution of Fe-Ti oxide ores increases from the NED to the Southern Eastern Desert (SED), suggesting the dominant mantle plumes and/or shear zones in the SED relative to the NED. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Using Mineral Chemistry to Characterize Ore-Forming Processes)
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33 pages, 20526 KB  
Article
Genesis of Rare Metal Granites in the Nubian Shield: Tectonic Control and Magmatic and Metasomatic Processes
by Mohamed Zaki Khedr, Saif M. Abo Khashaba, Eiichi Takazawa, Safaa M. Hassan, Mokhles K. Azer, N. H. El-Shibiny, Kamal Abdelrahman and Yuji Ichiyama
Minerals 2024, 14(5), 522; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14050522 - 17 May 2024
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2898
Abstract
The Igla Ahmr region in the Central Eastern Desert (CED) of Egypt comprises mainly syenogranites and alkali feldspar granites, with a few tonalite xenoliths. The mineral potential maps were presented in order to convert the concentrations of total rare earth elements (REEs) and [...] Read more.
The Igla Ahmr region in the Central Eastern Desert (CED) of Egypt comprises mainly syenogranites and alkali feldspar granites, with a few tonalite xenoliths. The mineral potential maps were presented in order to convert the concentrations of total rare earth elements (REEs) and associated elements such as Zr, Nb, Ga, Y, Sc, Ta, Mo, U, and Th into mappable exploration criteria based on the line density, five alteration indices, random forest (RF) machine learning, and the weighted sum model (WSM). According to petrography and geochemical analysis, random forest (RF) gives the best result and represents new locations for rare metal mineralization compared with the WSM. The studied tonalites resemble I-type granites and were crystallized from mantle-derived magmas that were contaminated by crustal materials via assimilation, while the alkali feldspar granites and syenogranites are peraluminous A-type granites. The tonalites are the old phase and are considered a transitional stage from I-type to A-type, whereas the A-type granites have evolved from the I-type ones. Their calculated zircon saturation temperature TZr ranges from 717 °C to 820 °C at pressure < 4 kbar and depth < 14 km in relatively oxidized conditions. The A-type granites have high SiO2 (71.46–77.22 wt.%), high total alkali (up to 9 wt.%), Zr (up to 482 ppm), FeOt/(FeOt + MgO) ratios > 0.86, A/CNK ratios > 1, Al2O3 + CaO < 15 wt.%, and high ΣREEs (230 ppm), but low CaO and MgO and negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.24–0.43). These chemical features resemble those of post-collisional rare metal A-type granites in the Arabian-Nubian Shield (ANS). The parent magma of these A-type granites was possibly derived from the partial melting of the I-type tonalitic protolith during lithospheric delamination, followed by severe fractional crystallization in the upper crust in the post-collisional setting. Their rare metal-bearing minerals, including zircon, apatite, titanite, and rutile, are of magmatic origin, while allanite, xenotime, parisite, and betafite are hydrothermal in origin. The rare metal mineralization in the Igla Ahmr granites is possibly attributed to: (1) essential components of both parental peraluminous melts and magmatic-emanated fluids that have caused metasomatism, leading to rare metal enrichment in the Igla Ahmr granites during the interaction between rocks and fluids, and (2) structural control of rare metals by the major NW–SE structures (Najd trend) and conjugate N–S and NE–SW faults, which all are channels for hydrothermal fluids that in turn have led to hydrothermal alteration. This explains why rare metal mineralization in granites is affected by hydrothermal alteration, including silicification, phyllic alteration, sericitization, kaolinitization, and chloritization. Full article
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10 pages, 297 KB  
Article
Ratios of Neutrophils and Platelets to Lymphocytes as Predictors of Postoperative Intensive Care Unit Admission and Length of Stay in Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Retrospective Study
by Mohmad H. Alsabani, Faraj K. Alenezi, Badi A. Alotaibi, Ahmed A. Alotaibi, Lafi H. Olayan, Saleh F. Aljurais, Najd Alarfaj, Deem Alkhurbush, Ghaida Almuhaisen, Lena Alkhmies and Mohammed K. Al Harbi
Medicina 2024, 60(5), 753; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60050753 - 30 Apr 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2160
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the role of the pre- and postoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in predicting intensive care unit (ICU) admission and postoperative length of stay (LOS) in bariatric surgery. Materials and Methods: [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the role of the pre- and postoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in predicting intensive care unit (ICU) admission and postoperative length of stay (LOS) in bariatric surgery. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analysed 96 patients who underwent bariatric surgery at our institution. The NLR and PLR were calculated in the pre- and postoperative stages. Changes in pre- and postoperative hematological ratios were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The optimal cutoff values and area under the curve (AUC) for each ratio were calculated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between each ratio and the postoperative LOS after adjusting for age, sex, and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score. Results: The median age of our patients was 35.50 years, and 54.2% were male. The preoperative NLR showed a significant increase from 1.44 to 6.38 postoperatively (p < 0.001). The PLR increased from 107.08 preoperatively to 183.58 postoperatively, p < 0.001). ROC analysis showed that the postoperative NLR was a moderate to high predictor of ICU admission (AUC = 0.700, optimal cutoff point = 5.987). The postoperative PLR had less predictive power for ICU admission (AUC = 0.641, optimal cutoff point = 170.950). Ratios that had a statistically significant relationship with the postoperative LOS were the preoperative NLR (standardized β [95% CI]: 0.296 [0.115–0.598]), postoperative NLR (0.311 [0.034–0.161]), and postoperative PLR (0.236 [0.000–0.005]). Conclusions: The NLR and PLR demonstrated an independent relationship with the postoperative LOS after bariatric surgery and the predictive ability of ICU admission. Both ratios might be useful as simple markers to predict patient outcome after surgery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Guidelines for Bariatric Surgery)
23 pages, 8060 KB  
Article
Spatial Dynamics and Social Order in Traditional Towns of Saudi Arabia’s Nadji Region: The Role of Neighborhood Clustering in Urban Morphology and Decision-Making Processes
by Mohammed Mashary Alnaim and Emad Noaime
Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2830; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072830 - 28 Mar 2024
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5773
Abstract
This study explores how the layout of neighborhoods in traditional settlements of Saudi Arabia’s Najdi region influence social interactions and urban planning decisions. The study uses a multidisciplinary approach that includes urban morphology, architectural phenomenology, and sociological study methods to investigate the relationships [...] Read more.
This study explores how the layout of neighborhoods in traditional settlements of Saudi Arabia’s Najdi region influence social interactions and urban planning decisions. The study uses a multidisciplinary approach that includes urban morphology, architectural phenomenology, and sociological study methods to investigate the relationships between spatial organization and decision-making processes on both the macro and micro levels of decision-making. The purpose is to look at how collective action decision-making processes affect the urban fabric and how social norms influence spatial organization at different levels. The study applies case study and spatial analysis approaches to investigate how the traditional settlements’ spatial structure promotes peace among the inhabitants while also sustaining cultural traditions. The qualitative approach investigates how spatial arrangements influence behaviors, developing a better understanding of how residents interact with their surroundings. According to the study’s findings, these spatial layouts sustain customs and assist communities in adapting to environmental changes by retaining cultural activities. The study identifies the significance of balancing development with the retention of important traditional values in the implementation of long-term urban conservation plans. Traditional Najdi towns can serve as urban design examples, emphasizing the need to acknowledge the distinct value of vernacular architecture in modern urban development while also fostering social cohesion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Architecture, Urban Space and Heritage in the Digital Age)
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25 pages, 3820 KB  
Article
The Impact of Pesticide Residues on Soil Health for Sustainable Vegetable Production in Arid Areas
by Turki Kh. Faraj, Mohamed Hamza EL-Saeid, Mohamed M. M. Najim and Maha Chieb
Separations 2024, 11(2), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11020046 - 31 Jan 2024
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 9518
Abstract
The assessment of pesticide residues in agricultural soils is an essential prerogative in maintaining environmental health standards. Intensive vegetable cultivation is practiced in the Al-Kharj area of the eastern Najd region of Saudi Arabia, where excessive applications of agrochemicals are reported to pollute [...] Read more.
The assessment of pesticide residues in agricultural soils is an essential prerogative in maintaining environmental health standards. Intensive vegetable cultivation is practiced in the Al-Kharj area of the eastern Najd region of Saudi Arabia, where excessive applications of agrochemicals are reported to pollute vegetable-growing soils, challenging the sustainable management of soils and groundwater resources. This study aimed to monitor the levels of thirty-two types of pesticide residues in the soils of vegetable fields and the estimated potential health risk for humans due to non-dietary exposure to pesticides in soils in the Al-Kharj region. Pesticide residues were evaluated at 0–10 cm and 10–20 cm depths at 20 sampling sites from Al-Kharj. Gas chromatograph-mass spectrometry, coupled with a quadrupole mass spectrometer with a GC column, was used in the analysis. The results indicated that agrochemical residues show prolonged soil pollution that may cause adverse impacts on human and environment. Herbicides Atrazine, Isoproturpon, and Linuron have been detected in the soils, and these pose many problematic environmental threats. Bromoxynil, Pendimetholin, and Diclofop-methyl could be used as per the recommendations to sustainably manage soil and water resources in the Al-Kharj area. Resmethrin, Methidathion, Ethoprophos, Tetramethrin, Bromophis-methyl, Bifenthion, Permethrin, Fenoxycarb, Cyfluthrin, Phosmet, and Azinophos-methyl can be used safely in the Al-Kharj agricultural area, maintaining sustainable soils and water resources. Applications of Carbaryl require sufficient care, while Endosulfan, Deltamethrin, Lindane, Chlorpyrifos, Chlorpyrifos-methly, Dimethoate, Heptachlor, and Mevinphos, which are detected in soils, require policy guidelines to limit the use to ensure sustainability. Policy interventions need to be formulated to increase the sustainability of soil management and groundwater resources in the Al-Kharj region to ensure the safety of people who are in direct contact with the agrochemicals used and to ensure the safety of agricultural products generated in this region. Full article
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