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The essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation from fruits of Tordylium trachycarpum (Boiss.) Al-Eisawi et Jury and Tordylium hasselquistiae DC. (Apiaceae) were analyzed by GC and GC/MS. In total, fifty-three compounds were characterized, representing 99.5% of the oil and sixty-one compounds were characterized, representing 98.8% of the oil of T. trachycarpum and T. hasselquistiae, respectively. The main constituents were octyl octanoate (79.9%), octanol (11.0%) and octanoic acid (2.9%) in T. trachycarpum; and octyl hexanoate (72.7%), octyl octanoate (12.7%) and octanol (3.3%) in the oil of T. hasselquistiae.

This study technically analyses one of the online exam supervision technologies, namely the Artificial Intelligence-based Auto Proctoring (AiAP). This technology has been heavily presented to the academic sectors around the globe. Proctoring technologies are developed to provide oversight and analysis of students’ behavior in online exams using AI, and sometimes with the supervision of human proctors to maintain academic integrity in a blended format. Manual Testing methodology was used to do a software testing on AiAP for verification of any possible incorrect red flags or detections. The study took place in a Middle Eastern university by conducting online exams for 14 different courses, with a total of 244 students. Afterward, five human proctors were assigned to verify the data obtained by the AiAP software. The results were then compared in terms of monitoring measurements: screen violation, sound of speech, different faces, multiple faces, and eyes movement detection. The proctoring decision was computed by averaging all monitoring measurements and then compared between the human proctors’ and the AiAP decisions, to ultimately set the AiAP against a benchmark (human proctoring) and hence to be viable for use. The decision represented the number of violations to the exam conditions, and the result showed a significant difference between Human Decision (average 25.95%) and AiAP Decision (average 35.61%), and the total number of incorrect decisions made by AiAP was 74 out of 244 exam attempts, concluding that AiAP needed some improvements and updates to meet the human level. The researchers provided some technical limitations, privacy concerns, and recommendations to carefully review before deploying and governing such proctoring technologies at institutional level. This paper contributes to the field of educational technology by providing an evidence-based accuracy test on an automatic proctoring software, and the results demand institutional provision to better establish an appropriate online exam experience for higher educational institutions.

Beside the role of ABO group in immunohaematology, there is accumulating evidence that the ABO blood group also plays a key role in various human disorders. The interest in blood groups and their association with disease stems from the awareness that blood group antigens are incredibly important components in the process of cell maturation and control. Studies have indicated a link between cancer and the ABO blood group. The appearance or disappearance of blood type antigens is now considered a hallmark of malignancy in many common cancers. Several tumour markers are in fact known blood group antigens. The aim of this review is to describe the history and possible functions of the ABO group and then summarize the association between blood groups and skin cancers.

Current research was conducted to analyze the coefficient and distribution of direct and indirect influence of yield components and earliness characteristics in wheat genotypes. Both experiments were carried out at the Pot House of the (NIA Nuclear Institute of Agriculture, Tandojam) (Latitude: 25.433. Longitude: 68.533), the experiment was established as a randomized complete block design (RCBD). There were six varieties of wheat, namely IBWSN1010, IBWSN 1025, TD1, ESW9525 Chakwal86 and Khirman, which were used to study the correlation coefficient between morphological and physiological traits. The study was based on fifteen (15) morphologically and physiologically traits that were observed. The analysis of variance showed significant differences between the characteristics of the varieties. The ESW9525 showed better performance for all morphological and physiological traits. The correlation and the coefficient analysis showed that the days to maturity and the days to growth predicted significant positive predictions related to the height of the plant (cm) and the length of the ear. Days to 75% heading and days to 75% maturity showed negative and positive effects for osmotic potential, relative water content in% and total chlorophyll content in%. Plant height (cm) had negative and positive and significant with tiller plant-1. Therefore, in our research trial, variety ESW9525 may be favorable for hybridization in order to produce a promising and drought tolerant wheat cultivar

Drought tolerance has been the criterion under water stress conditions. The present study was therefore evaluated in six wheat genotypes viz. (IBWSN-1010, IBWSN-1025, TD-1, ESW-9525,Khirman and Chakwal-86). Experiment first occupied with different polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) concentration 0.0, -0.5, -0.75, -1.0 MPa, where is another experiment was laid out complete randomized design (CRD) along with two treatments (T1 control normal four irrigations) and (T2 terminal drought T. drought) conditions with replication thrice, has been used to induce drought tolerance. Different seedling parameters as agronomical traits, named, Plant height (cm), Spike length (cm), Number of Tiller Plant-1, Straw weight/plant (g), 100 Grain weight (g), Seed index (g), Days to 75% heading; Days to 75% maturity. The results depicted that ESW-9525 and IBWSN-1010 wheat cultivars performed better as compared to both check varieties (Khirman and Chakwal-86). The mean squares of variance showed that different osmotic potential had meaningful impact on most of the characters excluding root dry weight. Moreover, using all seedling growth parameters, under consideration can be utilized as selective characters to evaluate among resistant and susceptible cultivars in water stress under laboratory experiment and breeding programs seems to be additional desired for evaluation in water stress.

Background: Medicinal plants have been and continue to be the primary source of treatment for many diseases. Taraxacum officinale (dandelion), has been used for hundreds of years as a traditional medical remedy for several diseases. However, the anti-cancer potential of this plant has not been fully screened. Genotoxicity screening which is an integral part of the evaluation of the safety of this plant is also lacking. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of different extracts of T. officinale. Method: Plant sample was extracted in different solvents to prepare ethanol, methanol, chloroform and water extracts. These extracts were then tested for their ability to inhibit the proliferation of colorectal cancer (Caco-2), chronic myelogenous leukemia (K562), prostate cancer (PC-3), and breast cancer (MCF-7) cells. Cell viability was evaluated using MTT assay and the selectivity indices was determined with the aid of mortal human fibroblasts. Then the most active extract, chloroform extract, was used to detect the genotoxicity of the constituents on mice bone marrow cells. Results: The results showed that the T. officinale chloroform extract was found to be most effective against leukemia (K562) and prostate cancer (PC-3) cell lines. The extracts showed marked selectivity towards these cancer cells. Genotoxic studies revealed that genotoxic changes occurred after chloroform extract treatment, however, these changes were observed at the very high concentrations only. Conclusion: The results suggest that T. officinale exhibits selective anti-tumor activity and it is safe for use.

One of the main implications of reducing biodiversity is the loss or decline of ecosystem function. We have previously seen in the Rashad location that agricultural practices have a lower effect on ant biodiversity. However, how they affect the environmental services, they provide is unclear. The main objective of this study was to evaluate whether the conversion of native areas into agricultural systems affects the removal of biomass carried out by ants, an important ecosystem function linked to decomposition and predation. We sampled three transects from (the Rashad district). Each sampling plot consisted of a grid of 12 pitfall traps filled with sardine baits (simulating animal organisms) and bananas (as attractive vegetable resources). In addition, grass seeds (Sorghum bicolor) were applied in both natural (Campo, Kubos, and forest) and agricultural settings (soy monoculture, pastures, and organic agriculture). The Results showed that ant’s removal was highest in sardine with an average of 87.3g (σ ± 23.8), followed by banana (average of 70.5g, σ ± 31.5) and lowest in the seed (mean of 7.8g, σ ± 7.3) (highest p = 0.017). Only the soy monoculture regions showed the lowest levels of sardine removed, indicating an effect associated with the kind of land use. Because little biomass is eliminated in both natural and agricultural settings, no effect of the seeds bait has been observed. As for the banana bait, the data suggested a redundancy effect with another group of macro-fauna). Our results suggest that there is a redundancy effect with another group of macrofauna. However, macrofauna biomass (excluding ants) does not explain this biomass removal. In addition, it detected no impact of ant species composition on removed biomass. The reduction of sardine and banana biomass was correlated with ant richness, indicating that the effects on ecosystem function depend on the particularities of each evaluated role (such as resource type), the type of land use, and the ant richness in the study area.

This study aims to estimate the tree diversity status of Rashad Forest Reserves in the Rashad locality of the South Kordofan State of Sudan. For data collection, eight sample plots (20 × 20 m) were taken randomly, and parameters were determined: trees species diversity, composition, relative density, dominance, important value index, and species richness in the Rashad forest reserve. The results show that a total of 237 and 56 tree species, including 22 families, have been identified in the study area. Fabaceae family and species numbers have the highest number of 13 species in 8 genera, followed by Combretaceae with 8 species belonging to 3 different genera, Malvaceae with 5 species belonging to 4 different genera, Apocynaceae with 3 species belonging to 3 different genera. The Arecaceae, Burseraceae, Capparaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Meliaceae, and Rubiaceae families each had two species, and all the other 11 families had one species each. Among the 56 different tree species found within the reserve. The results also indicated that Tamarindus indica L. and Ziziphus spina-christi (L.) Desf. had the highest relative density and dominance of 4.64% and 11% respectively. Adansonia digitata L., Grewia villosa Willd, Vepris nobilis (Delile) Mziray had density and dominance of 4.80% and 9%. Followed by Anogeissus leiocarpa (DC.) Guill. & Perr, Adansonia digitata L., Catunaregam nilotica (Stapf) Tirveng. (Syn: Xeromphis nilotica (Stapf) Keay, Vangueria madagascariensis J. F. Gmel. with 3.38% and 8%, respectively. Eleven species recorded the least relative dominance of 0.42%. Shannon-Weiner diversity index (H’) value stood at 3.82. And as diversity indices varied with location depending on the species available within an ecological zone, Rashad forest reserve is blessed with a moderate diversity index.

PurposeBusiness intelligence (BI) systems (i.e. technology and procedures that transform raw data into useful information for managers to enable them to make better and faster decisions) have enormous potential to improve organisational efficiency. However, given the high expenditure involved in the deployment of these systems, the factors that will enable their successful integration should be thoroughly considered and assessed before these systems are adopted. Absorptive capacity (ACAP) is the ability of organisations to gather, absorb and strategically influence new external information, and as such, there is a strong theoretical connection between ACAP and BI systems. This research aims to empirically investigate the relationship between the dimensions underpinning ACAP (i.e. acquisition, assimilation, transformation and exploitation) and whether and how they affect the efficiency of BI systems, which, in turn, can enhance organisational efficiency.Design/methodology/approachThis study formulates five hypotheses addressing the effect of ACAP dimensions on BI systems efficiency and the effect of BI systems efficiency on organisational efficiency. It synthesises previous qualitative work and current research to derive sets of measures for each of the key constructs of the study. It follows a quantitative methodology, which involves the collection of survey data from senior managers in the telecommunications industry and the analysis of the data using partial least squares – structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe results of the analysis confirmed the validity of the constructs and proposed measures and supported all five hypotheses suggesting a strong positive relationship between the ACAP dimensions, acquisition, assimilation, transformation and exploitation and the efficiency of BI systems and a strong effect of BI systems efficiency on organisational efficiency.Practical implicationsThe study offers a comprehensive model of ACAP and BI systems efficiency. The set of measures that underpin these constructs could help researchers understand how ACAP dimensions are practically implemented and could contribute to their efforts to develop ACAP measurement instruments. At the same time, the model can help managers assess the readiness of their firms to adopt BI systems and identify which areas should be further developed, before committing to the substantial financial investment associated with BI systems. It also provides a set of practical solutions that could be implemented to enable a more robust ACAP and support a better integration of BI systems.Originality/valueFollowing an empirical approach, this study refines one’s theoretical and practical understanding of ACAP as an organisational dynamic capability and its dimensions; it provides an account on how each dimension affects different aspects of BI systems efficiency, which, in turn, may contribute to the improvement of organisational efficiency. Moreover, the study reframes ACAP measures as a set of requirements that can be practically assessed and followed before attempting to purchase BI systems.

Background: Anaemia is a leading haematological disorder and one of the most common health problems worldwide affecting over a billion people. Anaemia leads to the lowered ability of the blood to carry oxygen. In this study, we focused particularly on the prevalence of anaemia in students currently enrolled at the Hashemite University/Jordan, shining light on the overall prevalence in this age group elsewhere. These individuals are at an increased risk of developing anaemia and are a nutritionally susceptible part of the population. Methods: Complete blood counts were determined for a total of two hundred students. Questionnaires were also completed by students regarding their life-style and dietary habits. Results: A significant 27% of female students were found to be anaemic. 17% of females had mild type of anaemia, whereas 10% of females tested suffered from moderate anaemia. The percentage of anaemia among males was also determined and found to be insignificant with only 2% of male students affected. A direct link was found between anaemia and a lack of consumption of foods rich in iron and/or over-consumption of foods that inhibit iron absorption. An inverse correlation was also observed with body mass index (BMI). Conclusion: Prevention of anaemia is particularly relevant in females and may be implemented by different but complementary means such as education workshops, iron fortification of foods and the adaption of lifestyle habits.

IntroductionHuman error contributes to the majority of adverse events in the operating theatre environment. Many processes exist to limit the incidence of such adverse events. However, the role of technology and device advancement has been limited in this respect.MethodsA dual-controlled accessory electrical diathermy footswitch (abortive diathermy footswitch device or ADF) concept was developed in an attempt to improve patient safety in theatre. The activation of the ADF allows a senior surgeon to control the activation of diathermy devices by a junior surgeon by deactivating diathermy devices when the ADF footswitch is operated.ResultsThe ADF device was constructed as a final working and tested prototype in association with the local medical engineering department at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle. The device was clinically tested during two separate theatre sessions involving five elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies.ConclusionsWe demonstrated the feasibility and functionality of the ADF device and propose a role in surgical training through potentially limiting surgical errors associated with the use of electrical diathermy during training and expanding accessible surgical experience.

TABLE S1 List of species captured within biomass removal stations and ordered by their occurrence in Rashad destrict between April 2020 and June 2021.

The most common ecological consequence of biodiversity loss is a reduction in ecosystem functions. These responses, however, vary depending on the type of land-use change and the ecological setting. This study investigated the impact of land-use type and ecosystem functions on the ant assemblage of Rashad district, Sudan. Therefore, the purposes of this study are to evaluate the composition and structure of the ant assembly in the station, as well as to determine the trophic guilds and functional groups and their spatial variation in three different land uses. Furthermore, based on the type of land use to determine how the conversion of native vegetation affects the richness and composition of ant species. In each location, we sampled three 20-meter-long transects (Sample plot). Each sample plot consisted of a grid of 12 pitfall traps arranged in three rows of four traps each, with a 2 m spacing between them, replicated six times in a single year. We collected 38 ant species from four subfamilies and 17 genera. Parasyscia lamborni was the most abundant species followed by Bothroponera crassa. Ant diversity was higher in Soy monoculture and Organic farming than in the Pasture. The frequency distributions of ant Functional groups in Soy monoculture and Organic farming were significantly different from the frequency distributions in the pasture. The omnivorous and predator’s trophic guilds were the best represented and regarding functional groups. We found a high proportion of tropical climate specialists and Myrmicinae generalists. These findings suggest that Pasture Activation reduces ant diversity. It can also help to increase the population of species with a diverse diet that predominate in areas where stress and disturbance prevent other ants from reproducing.

This is the first quantitative ethnobotanical study conducted in the Rashad District, in Southern Kordofan, Sudan. The objective was to collect and identify trees and shrubs used by local people for medicinal purposes and to summarize local knowledge about traditional herbal medicine. Ethnobotanical data were obtained by conducting several ethnobotanical surveys, questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, field observations, inquiries, and group gatherings from September 2018 to January 2019. Quantitatively, the data were analysed in terms of use-value (UV) and the relative frequency of citation (RFC). A total of 56 trees and shrubs used in medicine and belonging to 22 families were listed in this Research. The most common families were Fabaceae (14%), Combretaceae (8%) and Malvaceae (5%). In terms of growth form, 35 species (61%) were trees, and 21 (39%) were shrubs. Fruits were the most common structures used to prepare herbal medicine (23%), and they were usually administered as a powder (13%). The most commonly used species in terms of Use Values (UV) by the local community in the Rashad area were: Adansonia digitata L. for dysentery diseases, followed by Tamarindus indica L. for the treatment of malaria & fever, Balanites aegyptiacus (L.) Delile for the treatment of enteric worms, Vangueria madagascariensis J. F. Gmel (for kidney problems), Ximenia americana L (for toothache) Guiera senegalensis J. F. Gmel for treatment of kidney problems. This study reveals significant local ethnobotanical knowledge and intense human-plant interactions. It is critical to record indigenous uses of woody plants to identify potential species for future domestication.

This study was conducted in Khartoum State, Sudan to determine the prevalence and the risk factors associated with Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species infections in domestic ruminants. Blood samples were collected from a total of 594 animals from 32 different farms distributed in the three provinces of Khartoum State. Among the 196 cattle, 200 sheep, and 198 goats examined using PCR, 13.27%, 32.50%, and 35.86% were infected with Anaplasma spp., respectively, with an overall prevalence of 27.27%. Cattle were infected with A. marginale (10.71%), A. centrale (2.04%), and A. ovis (0.51%), while sheep and goats were infected with A. ovis being significantly higher compared with cattle. No Ehrlichia spp. was detected in domestic ruminant in Khartoum State. Prevalence rates of Anaplasma infections were highly associated with breed, location, season, and sex. The prevalence rates of Anaplasma infection were significantly higher in exotic goat breeds compared with indigenous, and the infection in sheep and cattle was significantly higher in summer and in autumn in goats. The Anaplasma spp. infection rate in goats was significantly higher in females. The infection rate was also significantly higher in Khartoum North in both sheep and goats. It could be concluded that Anaplasma infection is prevalent in small and large ruminants in Khartoum State. Therefore, further studies on the epidemiology of anaplasmosis, possible tick, lice, and flea vectors and reservoirs in Sudan are important.

The prediction of a difficult cholecystectomy has traditionally been based on certain pre-operative clinical and imaging factors. Most of the previous literature reported small patient cohorts and have not used an objective measure of operative difficulty. The aim of this study was to develop a pre-operative score to predict difficult cholecystectomy, as defined by a validated intra-operative difficulty grading scale. Two cohorts from prospectively maintained databases of patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy were analysed: the CholeS Study (8755 patients) and a single surgeon series (4089 patients). Factors potentially predictive of difficulty were correlated to the Nassar intra-operative difficulty scale. A multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was then used to identify factors that were independently associated with difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy, defined as operative difficulty grades 3 to 5. The resulting model was then converted to a risk score, and validated on both internal and external datasets. Increasing age and ASA classification, male gender, diagnosis of CBD stone or cholecystitis, thick-walled gallbladders, CBD dilation, use of pre-operative ERCP and non-elective operations were found to be significant independent predictors of difficult cases. A risk score based on these factors returned an area under the ROC curve of 0.789 (95% CI 0.773–0.806, p

Organic farming is becoming more popular as there is a greater demand for pesticide-free food. Pest control in organic agricultural production requires a set of skills, including the identification of effective predators and land-use practices. Predation by selected Coleopteran, Dipteran, and Hemipteran insects and Araneae is well established, whereas the predatory role of ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) has received little attention in the Rashad district, Sudan. This study was carried out to assess the predation rates of Belenois solilucis eggs and the impact of the land use type around the properties on these rates. An experimente involving predation tests on Belenois solilucis eggs and fauna sampling were conducted in 18 areas of organic agriculture in the Rashad district. The study showed that ants can reduce the eggs population by 26.8% per day. At the same time, other predator taxa, primarily Coleoptera, from Coccinellidae and Staphylinidae families, removed only 13% of the eggs. Ant species with the most significant recruiting power were Axinidris acholli, Tapinoma carininotum, and Technomyrmex moerens. Ant genera such as Linepithema, Dorymyrmex, and Camponotus ants were also frequently observed. The proportion of the planted area within a 500-meter radius, in addition to the interaction of other landscape categories, had a minor influence on predation, but only when the predators were not ants. The landscape does not affect predation by predators in general, including ants, or on ant predation in particular.

Supplemental material, Supplemental_material_Questionnaire_English_and_Arabic for A large-scale study exploring understanding of the national premarital screening program among Jordanians: Is an at-risk marriage a valid option for Jordanians? by Zaynab Al-Eisawi, Khaldun Jacoub and Akram Alsukker in Public Understanding of Science

Detecting carrier couples through premarital screening implementation is an effective way of controlling thalassaemia. The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge of university students towards premarital screening and their possible involvement in an at-risk marriage. Students ( n = 976) were chosen randomly from Jordanian universities. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: socio-demographical data, the students’ knowledge about the screening programme, and finally their beliefs and future decisions related to it. Most (90%) participants were aware of the premarital screening availability. Females had significantly better understanding of premarital screening compared to males. Despite the majority of the participants not wanting to go ahead with at-risk marriages, 23% would not be deterred from marrying their anticipated partner and believed engaging in at-risk marriage was a valid idea. We suggest providing more effective educational programmes, genetic counselling and free prenatal diagnosis for at-risk couples.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial disease associated with many genetic polymorphisms; among them is the FokI polymorphism in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene. In this case-control study, samples from 82 T2DM patients and 82 healthy controls were examined to investigate the association of the FokI polymorphism and lipid profile with T2DM in the Jordanian population. DNA was extracted from blood and genotyped for the FokI polymorphism by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing. Lipid profile and fasting blood sugar were also measured. There were significant differences in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and triglyceride levels between T2DM and control samples. Frequencies of the FokI polymorphism (CC, CT and TT) were determined in T2DM and control samples and were not significantly different. Furthermore, there was no significant association between the FokI polymorphism and T2DM or lipid profile. A feed-forward neural network (FNN) was used as a computational platform to predict the persons with diabetes based on the FokI polymorphism, lipid profile, gender and age. The accuracy of prediction reached 88% when all parameters were included, 81% when the FokI polymorphism was excluded, and 72% when lipids were only included. This is the first study investigating the association of the VDR gene FokI polymorphism with T2DM in the Jordanian population, and it showed negative association. Diabetes was predicted with high accuracy based on medical data using an FNN. This highlights the great value of incorporating neural network tools into large medical databases and the ability to predict patient susceptibility to diabetes.

Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) is a term used to explain ground-breaking tactics for ethically and socially governing technological research. Recent attention is being focused on the concept, particularly in Europe. However, the perception of RRI within MENA region is still required to be fuzzy and non-existent. This research aims to stretch the understating of RRI beyond the European countries to reach parts of the MENA region and its recent research and innovation trends. The research followed a qualitative Grounded Theory Methodology (GTM) to shape a proposed set of categories and themes presented as a final RRI framework towards some MENA countries engaged in the study (Jordan, UAE, and Bahrain). Data was collected via Semi-Structured interviews for tackling potential creation of synergies amongst entities involved in IS/technology research. The Practical implications delivered a pragmatic contribution to the ethical and societal build-up of IS research in MENA, aiming to achieve a transformative power of recent technological research.

The start of Nile-type trans-Saharan drainage systems in NE Africa during the Cenozoic is disputed. Stratigraphical and sedimentological data in Egypt are partly in conflict with the uplift history of potential source areas of water and sediment in East Africa. Here, we investigate outcrops of the Wadi Awatib Conglomerate in Sudan that provide the first evidence of northerly flowing Neogene rivers in the region. Dimension and relief of basal erosion surfaces, overall geometry of deposits and palaeocurrent indicators demonstrate that the deposits represent the fill of northward-oriented incised valleys. The conglomerates were deposited in deep gravel-bed rivers, by hyperconcentrated flows, tractions carpets and gravel bars, primarily during heavily sediment-laden floods of probably monsoonal origin. Stratigraphical and geomorphological relationships show that the deposits are between Eocene and Pliocene in age. Considering the structural history of the region and periods in the Cenozoic with palaeoclimatic conditions suitable for the production and transport of gravels, we hypothesize that the dramatic base-level fall during the Late Miocene Messinian salinity crisis in combination with a favorable palaeoclimate caused the incision of valleys and their subsequent filling with conglomerates. Sea-level change in the Mediterranean Sea and headward erosion of streams that were connected to the Egyptian Nile might have been the primary cause of valley incision and deposition of conglomerates, despite a location far inland from the coastline. We suggest that the deposits document a relatively young Neogene (Messinian to early Pliocene) trans-Saharan river system unrelated to uplift of the Ethiopian Plateau.

Grounded theory methodology (GTM) is an extensive research methodology that is immensely active in numerous social science research fields. It is by far one of the most popular techniques applied in qualitative research. The challenge in using such methods might appear in their complexity. Several steps of coding and analysis in GTM can be fuzzy and multifaceted for novice researchers specialised in Information Systems (IS) fields, knowledge management, and broad applications of IS. The current study suggests a design framework for novices in qualitative research that presents GTM as a set of techniques characterised graphically, allowing the extraction of grounded results and a set of pragmatic analysed data classifications rather than only concentrating on implementing a grounded “theory”. Hence, the research stresses using the term “grounded techniques”, permitting the creation of grounded categories to strengthen qualitative research results' rigour. The proposed framework meticulously exemplifies how an organised set of phases in a research design can enlighten the novice researcher while conducting a study in knowledge absorptive capacity using a comprehensive GTM process to enforce the understanding of GTM techniques.

The age of the Hudi Chert fauna is highly controversial and crucial for the reconstruction of the geological history of the Nile valley. Herein, six species of Ampullariidae (Gastropoda) are described from the Hudi Chert Formation in the Republic of the Sudan, documenting that alleged relations of the Hudi Chert fauna with Oligocene faunas from Egypt turned out to be based on misidentifications. Although an Oligocene age cannot be excluded, we propose an Eocene age for the Hudi Chert fauna based on the known stratigraphic range of the newly established genus Sudanistes . A Neogene age is clearly excluded based on the presence of the exclusively Palaeogene genus Pseudoceratodus . The Hudi Chert ampullariids lived in an extensive freshwater system of swamps and ponds, whereas riverine conditions and deep lake setting are unlikely depositional environments. Pila busserti Harzhauser & Neubauer is described as a new species and Sudanistes Harzhauser & Neubauer is introduced as a new genus.

Introduction. Many processes exist that limit or eliminate the incidence of adverse events in general surgery including the World Health Organization safety checklist. Technology and device advancement has a potentially expanding role in the context of surgical safety. Materials and Methods. A dual controlled accessory electrical diathermy footswitch ( Permissive diathermy foot switch device or PDf) device concept was developed in an effort to improve patient safety in theatre and enhance opportunities in training. Electrical diathermy is only activated if the senior supervising surgeon and the novice surgeon simultaneously activate their interconnected footswitches. The activation of the PDf accessory footswitch device allows a senior surgeon to exert control on “initiation” of activation of diathermy devices operated by a novice surgeon ( foot on pedal) as well as when desiring to deactivate the device ( foot off pedal). Results. A process of designing and prototyping was initiated to define the purpose and the functionality of the PDf device up till the stage of a fully functioning prototype. The PDf device was constructed as a final working and tested prototype in association with the local medical engineering department at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle. The device was on a nonbiological model to determine efficacy and safety and passed its laboratory testing phase and was deemed ready for clinical use. Conclusion. We demonstrated the feasibility and functionality of the PDf device and propose a positive role in surgical training in the context of early surgical training and specific circumstances where more control is needed.

Allium naqabense Al-Eisawi & Omar is described and illustrated from Ras al-Naqab in southern Jordan. The new species is assigned to Allium L. sect. Molium G. Don of Allium subg. Amerallium Traub. Allium naqabense differs from the closely related species A. erdelii Zucc., A. papillare Boiss., A. qasyunense Mouterde, and A. negevense Kollmann by having glabrous leaves and by the pale yellow anthers and style that are included within the perianth. The most closely related species, A. erdelii, has leaves that are pilose on both surfaces and anthers that are exserted and yellow. Allium naqabense has glabrous leaves and included stamens. The new species is assessed as Endangered (EN), according to IUCN criteria.

This study aims at investigating the modification response of cast Al-4%Mg alloy to Zirconium or Samarium additions at high and low levels. Thermal analysis was used to evaluate the influence of Zirconium and Samarium. The solidification data represented the four main reaction peaks during solidification and had shown that both Zr and Sm play a role in refinement with a depression in solidification temperature. Moreover, Sm acts as a modifier as it had noticeable effect on retarding the recalescence temperature. Microstructure Examination was implemented by optical microscopy, image analysis software and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with the aid of image analysis and Energy Dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results revealed the formation of new intermetallic phases such as agglomerates of Al38.76MgZr7.04Ti0.52Fe0.07 and Chinese script shapes of Al25.28MgFe2.77Sm1.48. Accordingly, a noticeable grain size reduction is found with respect to the level of addition of Zr and Sm where Sm showed more refinement effect.

Spotted fever group (SFG) rickettsiosis is caused by obligatory intracellular Gram‐negative bacteria that belong to the genus Rickettsia. Ticks belonging to the family Ixodidae can act as vectors, reservoirs or amplifiers of SFG rickettsiae. This study was conducted to estimate the seroprevalence of SFG rickettsioses in cattle, sheep and goats from Khartoum State, Sudan. Blood samples were collected from a total of 600 animals (sheep, goats and cattle) from 32 different farms distributed in three locations in Khartoum State during the period January to December 2012. Sera were tested for antibodies against SFG rickettsiae using IFAT. The prevalence of seropositivity was 59.3% in sheep, 60.1% in goats and 64.4% in cattle. Season was significantly (P

The Kordofan region is located at the southern end of the present-day Sahara in Sudan. AMS 14C dates and archeological findings allowed dating the latest Pleistocene–Holocene deposits in Kordofan. Several paleo-proxies (i.e., sedimentology, gastropod sub-fossil shells, pollens, stable isotopes, major element chemistry, and clay mineralogy) were used to reconstruct the climatic evolution for the past 13 ka. The region was subjected to an arid climate prior to 10 ka. Between 10 and 6 ka, the region experienced a wet climate marked by lacustrine/palustrine and fluviatile deposits. After ≈6 ka, the climate evolved to dry conditions, although the southern part remained more humid. Between 3 and 1 ka, a strong aeolian activity was recorded by a sedimentary hiatus and erosion features. From 1 ka to Present, the region became arid. This evolution can be correlated to the well-known evolution of Eastern Sahara during this time interval.

This study was conducted in Khartoum State, Sudan to determine the prevalence and the risk factors associated with Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species infections in domestic ruminants. Blood samples were collected from a total of 594 animals from 32 different farms distributed in the three provinces of Khartoum State. Among the 196 cattle, 200 sheep, and 198 goats examined using PCR, 13.27%, 32.50%, and 35.86% were infected with Anaplasma spp., respectively, with an overall prevalence of 27.27%. Cattle were infected with A. marginale (10.71%), A. centrale (2.04%), and A. ovis (0.51%), while sheep and goats were infected with A. ovis being significantly higher compared with cattle. No Ehrlichia spp. was detected in domestic ruminant in Khartoum State. Prevalence rates of Anaplasma infections were highly associated with breed, location, season, and sex. The prevalence rates of Anaplasma infection were significantly higher in exotic goat breeds compared with indigenous, and the infection in sheep and cattle was significantly higher in summer and in autumn in goats. The Anaplasma spp. infection rate in goats was significantly higher in females. The infection rate was also significantly higher in Khartoum North in both sheep and goats. It could be concluded that Anaplasma infection is prevalent in small and large ruminants in Khartoum State. Therefore, further studies on the epidemiology of anaplasmosis, possible tick, lice, and flea vectors and reservoirs in Sudan are important.

We describe here turtle remains from lag-type concentrations in channels and scours in the Wadi Milk Formation (Upper Cretaceous) of the Wadi Abu Hashim region in northern Sudan. Due to the isolated nature of the finds and the lack of any diagnostic material, such as skulls or more complete shell fragments, low-level taxonomic assignment was not possible. However, the morphology as well as the superficial ornamentation of most plates indicates pelomedusoid (Pleurodira) affinities, which is consistent with the geographically isolated nature of continental Africa during much of the Upper Cretaceous. The fauna contains one or two smaller sized pelomedusoid taxa as well as at least two large forms that are identified as members of Bothremydidae. A few plates may indicate the presence of other turtle lineages. Bothremydidae are known to have inhabited a variety of fluviatile and marine–littoral/near-coastal environments and thus are poor palaeoenvironmental indicators. However, bone compactness of one of the four peripheral morphotypes indicates the presence of a taxon that was more aquatic than typical Bothremydidae. Many plates show bioerosional traces that are interpreted as bore holes of clionid sponges, indicating a connection to a coastal environment exposed to marine influences. A marine or tidal influence is additionally suggested by sedimentological indicators, such as inclined heterolithic stratification, very variable palaeocurrent directions and partly intense bioturbation.

Selenosemicarbazones show marked antitumor activity. However, their mechanism of action remains unknown. We examined the medicinal chemistry of the selenosemicarbazone, 2-acetylpyridine 4,4-dimethyl-3-selenosemicarbazone (Ap44mSe), and its iron and copper complexes to elucidate its mechanisms of action. Ap44mSe demonstrated a pronounced improvement in selectivity toward neoplastic relative to normal cells compared to its parent thiosemicarbazone. It also effectively depleted cellular Fe, resulting in transferrin receptor-1 up-regulation, ferritin down-regulation, and increased expression of the potent metastasis suppressor, N-myc downstream regulated gene-1. Significantly, Ap44mSe limited deleterious methemoglobin formation, highlighting its usefulness in overcoming toxicities of clinically relevant thiosemicarbazones. Furthermore, Cu-Ap44mSe mediated intracellular reactive oxygen species generation, which was attenuated by the antioxidant, N-acetyl-L-cysteine, or Cu sequestration. Notably, Ap44mSe forms redox active Cu complexes that target the lysosome to induce lysosomal membrane permeabilization. This investigation highlights novel structure-activity relationships for future chemotherapeutic design and underlines the potential of Ap44mSe as a selective anticancer/antimetastatic agent.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop and tests a service excellence model, thus providing a detailed understanding of the key antecedents of service excellence, from a customer ' s perspective. The model presented in this paper is rooted in cross-disciplinary literature and tested amongst customers of UK retail banking services. Design/methodology/approach – Following a systematic approach to scale development, the paper draws on survey data from 260 consumers of retail banking products, with the data collected on national basis in the UK. Findings – The theoretical framework was evaluated using a structural approach. Of the hypothesised antecedents, innovation has the greatest impact on service excellence while reputation the least, as far as customers are concerned. Research limitations/implications – The research was limited to one research domain, i.e. UK retail banking, and thus it is reasonable to hypothesise that other aspects of service excellence will be more or less relevant for other types of financial services or in other geographic regions. Practical implications – Given the challenges faced by the retail banking sector, there are implications for practitioners because the authors identified the key antecedents of service excellence. The antecedents can be used by practitioners to help demonstrate excellence on their part and they could differentiate what are homogenous services at a time when the retail banks are going through a period of recovery following the crisis within the sector. Originality/value – This work complements the understanding of service excellence and provides insight for scholars and practitioners by modelling services for a specific service sector.

The flora of Mecca city district, Saudi Arabia has been recently studied between March and July, 2014. Four hundred and thirty three (433) specimens were collected from the study area. The specimens were found to belong to forty four (44) families, one hundred twenty five (125) genera and one hundred and eighty four (184) species. In this work and for the first time, four new species (unidentified, possibly new) were collected with specimen’s numbers: 40, 175, 279 and 415. Besides, the study came out with nine rare species to the flora of Saudi Arabia: Tribulus arabicus Atriplex farinosa, Cyperus rotundus, Datura innoxia, Emex spinosus, Heliotropium crispum, Kohautia caespitosa, Launaea nudicaulis and Plantago ciliata. It was found that the largest family in Mecca is Poaceae represented by 17% followed by Fabaceae with a percentage of 13%. The most prevalent species was Calotropis procera. From the analysis of species, the most chorotype prevalent was Saharo-Arabian with 27.70%. In addition, the most life-forms prevalent is the Therophytes with 41%. On the other hand, most of the species of high percentage 24.57% are used for medicinal purpose. Key words: Flora, mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Background: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in females in Jordan, it accounts for about 35.3% of all female cancers. Searching for alternative medicine from plants for breast cancer is a paramount importance. No studies have investigated the cytotoxic effect of the plants of Ajuga chia, Micromeria nervosa and Origanum dayi that are belonging to the family Lamiaceae and are growing wild in Jordan.Objective: To investigate the cytotoxic effect of the A. chia, M. nervosa and O. dayi plant species against two different breast cancer cell lines MCF7 and T47D.Materials and methods: The aerial parts of the aforementioned plant species were extracted with water and ethanol. Cell viability was assessed using MTT assay, after incubation with various concentrations of plant extracts.Results: A pronounced cytotoxic effect of the ethanolic extract of O. dayi against MCF7 and T47D cell lines, with IC50=99.4 ± 2.9 and 250 ± 4 μg/mL respectively. The ethanolic extract of A. chia has shown cytotoxic effect against T47D cell line with IC50=200 ± 5.2. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts of M. nervosa did not show any toxicity against the aforementioned cell lines. The three plant species showed selectivity when they were tested on fibroblasts (normal cells).Conclusion: Origanum dayi exhibited good cytotoxicity against aforementioned cell lines among the detected plant species, so O. dayi is considered a candidate for the development of a novel agent against breast cancer.

The status of medicinal plants in the high mountains of northern Jordan was evaluated. A total of 227 plant species belonging to 54 genera and 60 families were recorded. The survey is based on field trips conducted in the areas that include Salt, Jarash, Balka, Amman and Irbid governorates. Line transect method was used; collection of plant species was done and voucher specimens were deposited. A map for the target area was provided; the location of the study area grids in relation to their governorate was included. Key words: Medicinal plants, high mountains of northern Jordan, folk medicine.

The palynology of the Upper Cretaceous to Neogene non-marine succession in the Rawat Basin, White Nile State Sudan was investigated. An attempt was made to determine the relative age, and depositional environment of the studied interval. Based on the stratigraphic distribution of selected pollen and spores from two exploration wells, seven informal palynozones from the Campanian to the Neogene are proposed. The zones, in stratigraphically ascending order, are as follows: Assemblage Zone I, Campanian (Gelhak Formation); Assemblage Zone II, Maastrichtian (Melut Formation); Assemblage Zone III, Eocene (Yabus Formation); Assemblage Zone IV, Oligocene (Adar Formation); Assemblage Zone V, Oligocene/Miocene (Jimidi Formation); Assemblage Zone VI, Miocene (Miadol Formation); Assemblage Zone VII, Miocene/Pliocene (Daga and Agor formations). The ages are based on stratigraphic ranges of marker species in contemporaneous basins in Africa and South America and a series of assemblage species such as Ladakhipollenites lehmanii, Triorites sp (Zone I), Proteacidites sigalii (Zone II), Proxapertites operculatus (Zone III), Deltoidospora cf. africana (Zone IV), Magnastriatites howardii (Zone V), Cyathidites minor (Zone VI), Verrucatosporites usmensis (Zone VII). The paleo-environment of deposition were determined to range from fluvial to lacustrine environments.

Sickle cell anemia patients suffer from oxidative stress due to chronic inflammation and self-oxidation of sickle hemoglobin (Hb S). Chronic oxidative stress contributes to endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and multiple organ damage in sickle cell disease (SCD). Thus, antioxidant medication may favorably influence the disease. Gum Arabic (GA), edible, dried, gummy exudates from Acacia Senegal tree, has been claimed to act as an anti-oxidant and cytoprotective agent, protecting against experimental hepatic, renal and cardiac toxicities in rats. We hypothesized that regular intake of GA increases anti-oxidant capacity and reduce oxidative stress. Forty-seven patients (5–42 years) carrying hemoglobin SS were recruited. Patients received 30 g/day GA for 12 weeks. Total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels were measured by spectrophotometric methods before and after GA intake. Complete blood count was measured by sysmex. Gum Arabic significantly increased TAC level P

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is commonly performed, and several factors increase the risk of open conversion, prolonging operating time and hospital stay. Preoperative stratification would improve consent, scheduling and identify appropriate training cases. The aim of this study was to develop a validated risk score for conversion for use in clinical practice.Preoperative patient and disease-related variables were identified from a prospective cholecystectomy database (CholeS) of 8820 patients, divided into main and validation sets. Preoperative predictors of conversion were identified by multivariable binary logistic regression. A risk score was developed and validated using a forward stepwise approach.Some 297 procedures (3.4%) were converted. The risk score was derived from six significant predictors: age (p = 0.005), sex (p 0.001), indication for surgery (p 0.001), ASA (p 0.001), thick-walled gallbladder (p = 0.040) and CBD diameter (p = 0.004). Testing the score on the validation set yielded an AUROC = 0.766 (p 0.001), and a score6 identified patients at high risk of conversion (7.1% vs. 1.2%).This validated risk score allows preoperative identification of patients at six-fold increased risk of conversion to open cholecystectomy.

Summary Alyssum condensatum and A. repens are new for the flora of Jordan and A. subspinosum, previously known only from the holotype in Jordan and then recorded in Saudi Arabia, has been collected in a new locality on the top of Jabal Rum (1750 m). Synopsis of taxa as well as a key to the species of Alyssum in Jordan are here supplied.

In this paper, information derived from X-ray diffraction and heavy and light fractions analyses were discussed with the aim to trace the paleoclimatic changes of central Sudan during the Late Miocene to Pleistocene. Based on lithological and mineralogical characters noted in the Sayal and Umm Ruwaba Formations, four phases of distinct paleoclimatic changes were recognized. The first phase commenced in the Late Miocene during the deposition of the Sayal formation. The area was slightly uplifted and of gentle slope, a feature deduced from the deposition of clayey and fine-grained sandy materials with subordinate gravely component. A hot and humid climate, depicted from the development of kaolinite and iron oxide, is proposed during the deposition of the Sayal formation. The second phase is characterized by development of depressions in which alluvial streams and possibly small lacustrine basins occurred. This is inferred from the presence of sandy and silty materials, a characteristic of the lower and middle parts of the Umm Ruwaba Formation. The climate remained hot and humid during the deposition of the lower part of the Umm Ruwaba Formation in the early Pliocene. A shift to dry conditions with possible periodic humid seasons is, however, thought to be established during the deposition of the middle part of the Umm Ruwaba Formation deduced from the observed increase in salinity and decrease in iron oxide content. During the third phase, throughout the deposition of the upper part of the Umm Ruwaba Formation, the kinetic energy of streams increased as can be inferred from the presence of gravely intercalations. Deposition under arid climate is suggested for the lowermost part due to the increased amount of feldspars and the absence of iron oxide. However, evidence of cool condition is again noted at the topmost part of the formation inferred from the relatively high content of iron oxide in the deposits.

Highly bioturbated beds in small sedimentary outcrops have been reported, for the first time, from two localities near the Gedaref town. The trace-bearing beds are medium-to fine-grained sandstones associated with mudstones, assuming a coarsening upward sequence. The trace fossils were identified as Thalassinoides isp. and Skolithos ichnofacies association namely: Skolithos, Monocraterion, Diplocraterion and Conichnus isp. Based on the aforementioned litho and biofacies associations, the studied sediments might have been deposited in a more distal facies of a fluvial system, most probably in a deltaic environment.

This paper presents the first palynological results from subsurface strata of the Gedaref Formation, a succession of intercalated sandstones and mudstones in eastern Sudan. The top of the formation yielded a well preserved and fairly diversified sporomorph assemblage. Palm pollen, which are typical elements in contemporaneous West African coastal basins, were recorded in the present material, namely Longapertites , Mauritiidites , Monocolpites , Proxapertites and Spinizonocolpites. The coexistence of marker species such as Cristaeturites cristatus , Foveomonocolpites bauchiensis , Mauritiidites crassibaculatus , Monocolpites marginatus , Periretisyncolpites giganteus, Proteacidites sigalii , Proxapertites operculatus , Racemonocolpites cf. racematus , Retidiporites magdalenensis , Retitricolpites clarensis and Scabratriporites samoilovitchii indicates a Maastrichtian age for the top of the Gedaref Formation which was previously thought to be of Jurassic age. The occurrence of abundant structured phytoclasts, membraneous tissues and very little amorphous material suggests deposition in high energy fluvial settings close to the source vegetation. The frequent occurrence of pollen grains assigned to the Palmae group supports the prevalence of warm-humid conditions during the deposition of the studied sediments.