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Gnathostomiasis is a fish-borne zoonotic infection caused by eating infected seafood or fish parasitized by third-stage nematode larvae of the genus Gnathostoma. Twenty-seven fish specimens of the European eel Anguilla anguilla (Anguillidae) were collected from water coasts of the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt. Of the 27 fish that were studied, 14 fish (51.58%) were parasitized with third-stage larvae (L3) of Gnathostoma sp. (Gnathostomatidae), these larvae were investigated as encapsulated on the surface of different visceral organs and some embedded in muscles of the infected fish. By using both light and scanning electron microscopes, the morphological examination of the recovered nematodes revealed that the main diagnostic features represented by an elongated body, measured 6.5±2 (7.8-9) mm long, and its greatest width observed at the posterior one-third of the body was 0.4±0.02 (0.38-0.44) mm with narrow lateral alae, the presence of a cephalic bulb measured 0.26±0.02 (0.18-0.28) mm long, 0.31±0.02 (0.28-0.34) wide and armed with six transverse rows of spines, mouth opening surrounded by two simple lateral lips, and conical tail terminated with a pointed mucron. The described species was morphologically and morphometrically compared with some of the previously recorded species of the same genus. Based on our detailed description, the present species was identified as Gnathostoma sp. recovered from A.anguilla as the first record in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality and properties of biochar are generally influenced by the nature of the raw materials and pyrolysis techniques. To assess the quality of sesame biochar production, a disc chamber reactor set on a solar parabolic dish concentrator was proposed as a modified slow pyrolysis technique. To evaluate the physicochemical characterizations of the produced biochar, two pyrolysis settings were used: 470 °C for 1 h (T1) and 440 °C for 2 h (T2) to produce biochar from sesame stalk feedstock (SS) using the proposed solar disk chamber reactor. Ash content, mass fraction of elements (C, H, and O%), pH, surface area, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were investigated. The results showed that the mass of T1 biochar decreased by 5% when compared to T2, while ash content, pH, fixed carbon, and volatile gases for both biochars were relatively close. The H/C and O/C molar ratios were below 1.00 and 0.4, respectively, indicating a loss of degradable polar contents and the formation of aromatic compounds. The surface area of T2 biochar was three times the surface area of T1, with the opposite trend in mean pore diameter. Two biochars showed the same FTIR peaks and SEM data, with small differences in their characteristics, demonstrating that pyrolysis time and temperature had a tight relationship. Both biochars showed approximately similar properties. The reactor's efficiency is mainly affected by solar energy and atmospheric conditions during operation, which influence the average surface temperature. In Egypt, climatic conditions would be more favorable in the summer to improve the efficiency of parabolic solar dish concentrators for producing high-quality biochar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to study the case of the stained glass window at the Royal Palace in Edfena, Egypt. The research also aims to identify the chemical composition and diagnose the manifestations of damage on the stained glass window. Therefore, the examination and analytical study were conducted using several different techniques, including AutoCAD, digital and stereo microscopies, scanning electron microscope - X-ray energy dispersion, X-ray diffraction, and microbiological examination. The microscopic study revealed that the surface of the painted glass suffers from the presence of layers of damaged products, which obscure the decorations and lead to opacity. Light holes spread across the layers of different paints with varying sizes, and pits appear as a result of corrosion. Using EDX, the element responsible for the color in the painted glass layer was determined, as well as the composition of the lead came. XRD was used to identify the crystalline compounds in the painted glass layer and the putty composition. In the end, an appropriate treatment plan was drawn up for the condition of the lead-stained glass window to preserve it from loss and damage due to its archaeological and artistic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Agricultural Museum is considered one of the most important museums in Egypt. It contains many different archaeological materials, especially osteological remains. The studied cranium dates back to the Greco-Roman period and suffers from deterioration. The aim of the study was to utilize different analytical techniques in evaluating the state of preservation of the sample and applying required conse-rvation methods. The analytical techniques used were photographic documentation, digital microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), polarized light microscope, attenuated total reflectance/Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR/FTIR), color change using spectrophotometer, contact angle, and isolation and identification of fungi. The results of the analytical techniques revealed that the cranium was suffering from adverse deterioration (such as a change in the chemical composition, change of color, deterio-ration of surface morphology, low contact angle and the most occurrence fungi were Penicillium chrysogenum, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus, and Cladosporium cladosporioides. The conservation methods applied were mechanical and chemical cleaning, consolidation, disinfection, and display of the cranium on new Plexiglas support. The conservation methods revealed the aesthetic value of the cranium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food-borne zoonoses are of serious public health concern, with a high risk on human health in both developed and developing countries. Thus, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of zoonotic Anisakis larvae in smoked imported herring fish (Clupea harengus) and frozen mackerel (Scomber scomberus) from Assiut and Menoufia governorates, respectively in Egypt. All herring specimens were heavily infected with Anisakis larvae, while 9 out of 15 mackerel fish were infected. A total of 434 Anisakis larvae were collected from stomach, abdominal cavity, liver, between skin, muscles and gonads of 45 herring fish. In frozen mackerel, number of detected larvae was 78. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of internal transcribed spacer rDNA (ITS-rDNA) ribosomal DNA confirmed that the Anisakis larvae belonged to Anisakis simplex species. Furthermore, by employing light and scanning electron microscope, the morphological characters of Anisakis larvae were also determined. These findings highlight the importance of detecting health hazards in seafood products for helping in the management and prevention of anisakiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aims to identify features of the industry and assess the pottery damage through various examinations and analyses, such as examination by polarised microscope (PLM), examination by Scanning Electron Microscope with Energy Dispersive X-ray unit "SEM-EDX", analysis by X-ray diffraction powder XRD, and thermal analysis TGA. Archaeometric features of archaeological pottery were identified. The used clay is Nile Clay; the additives are sand, limestone powder, pottery powder (grog), and straw. The moulding technique is the hand and potter wheel technique. The surface treatment is a red wash and slip layer. The burning atmosphere is oxidising for the first and second pottery pieces and reducing for the third and fourth pottery pieces. The burning temperature is about 816°C for the first sample, 887°C for the second sample, 706°C for the third sample, and 651°C for the fourth sample. The texture is medium to coarse fabric for the first sample; the second sample fabric is fine; and the third and fourth samples have a coarse texture. The research proved that the pottery objects suffer from some different damage aspects such as fracture, loss of some parts, lack of strength, weakness, cracking, soil sediments, soot spots and black core, and salt crystallisation (chloride, sulphate, carbonate, and phosphate salts). The research proved the use of a mixture of distilled water, acetone, and ethyl alcohol at a ratio of 1:1:1, respectively, for removing clay soil deposits. EDTA is used to remove lime deposits. Nano-silica at a concentration of 0.5% is used to strengthen archaeological pottery by spraying. Paralloid B 82 dissolved in trichloroethylene at a concentration of 50% in assembling the pottery sherds; it is preferable to display it in the museum at a temperature of 20°C and a relative humidity of 55:60%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current paper discusses a new technique for restoring glass artifacts with gaps and loss of fragility. Acrylic slides of Paraloid B-44 are the best in terms of use because the degree of glass transition (Tg) is about 60, which suits the temperature in Egypt. The slides were made with 40% Paraloid B-44 w/v in acetone and used to fill the lost parts for structural reinforcement. The paper also aims to study the glass vessel that was discovered in the excavations of the American Research Centre in Fustat in 1966 and kept in the stores of the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo. The glass vessel was examined by optical digital microscopy (ODM) and ultraviolet imaging. After that, it was analysed by the scanning electron microscope (SEM) with an EDX unit and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Then, the conservation processes were performed. The conservation of the glass vessel included disassembling the previous restoration, cleaning, reassembling, filling and supporting the lost parts, and consolidation. The study concluded important results about the composition of the glass, deterioration factors, and identifying the materials of the previous restoration that were found inappropriate and required removal and conservation. It also clarified the method and importance of using acrylic (paraloid B-44) slides in strengthening the fragility and thinness of glass artifacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The blowfly, Lucilia cuprina (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is an important medical and forensic insect that is the main cause of ovine cutaneous myiasis. In the field of medical treatment using maggot therapy, this species could help to heal incurable infections. The morphological identification of the adult wing and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) of the first instar larvae was carried out and confirmed by DNA identification of the 3rd instar larvae of L. cuprina. The results showed a fraction of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) spanning approximately 269 bp. The topology of the Neighbor-Joining (NJ), Maximum Likelihood (ML) tree indicated that L. cuprina species were assigned correctly to the subfamily Luciliinae, family Calliphoridae. The male reproductive system comprises two testes, a pair of vasa differentia and a pair of accessory glands, a vesicula seminalis, and an ejaculatory duct. This inquired species has the common conventional spermatozoal pattern of Calliphoridae, a single-layered acrosome at the apex, a consolidated nucleus, totally crystallized mitochondrial derivatives, and an axoneme with a 9+9+2 microtubular configuration. This investigation revealed for the first time detailed morphological and mitochondrial DNA identification, as well as the morphology of the male reproductive system and ultrastructure of spermatozoa in L. cuprina, collected from Sharkia Governorate, Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nanoparticles (NPs) formed by Enterococcus thailandicus, Pseudomonas putida, Marinobacter hydrocarbonoclasticus, and P. geniculate were tested against soft rot/blackleg genera. The effects of NPs recorded on bacterial DNA, proteins, and carbohydrates concentration of Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum, Enterobacter cloacae (soft rot), and Dickeya solani (soft rot/blackleg). Treated cells showed degradation in isolated DNA, decreased proteins and carbohydrates concentration compared with untreated cells. Using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), the treated cells showed collapsed and small pits in the cell wall. Using Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), internal changes showed penetration of NPs inside the tested bacterial cells, the appearance of periplasmic space, formation of vacuoles, and condensation of cytoplasm. Disease severity ex vivo of potato tuber infected with tested genera demonstrated that NPs treatment didn't show any rotted tissue compared with untreated. The ability to uptake and accumulate FeNPs from the soil in potato (Solanum tuberosum) seedlings; Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) was used. It recorded an increase in iron content of treated potato (Solanum tuberosum) seedlings with NPs, compared with untreated. FeNPs can be used to control soft rot/blackleg diseases, instead of copper pesticides. It could be a new, approach for disease management and increase the plant's nutritional value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Microbial interactions are frequently categorized according to how they affect each population in a binary system. We aimed to determine the interaction between P . aeruginosa, S . aureus, and E . coli in-vitro. In this experimental hospitalized patients' sputum, urine, and blood samples were used to collect a total of 90 clinical isolates for the study in Damanhour Medical National Institute, Behira, Egypt, followed by accurate identification and testing for antibiotic sensitivity. To examine the effect of the supernatant of P. aeruginosa on S. aureus and E. coli determined MIC using broth microdilution method. We also measured the activity of lasA protease by assessing the S. aureus cell lysis potential of P. aeruginosa culture supernatants. Extraction of pyocyanin was made to determine the change in the cell nature of S. aureus upon exposure to pyocyanin by using a scanning electron microscope and the shape of colonies on the culture media was determined. Finally, we detect lasA, operon phz, phzM, phzS and rhlAB genes for P. aeruginosa. P. aeruginosa showed a great impact on S. aureus isolates resistant to different antibiotics as it facilitates their killing and may drive the normal colonies of S. aureus into SCVs. The ability to form biofilm by S. aureus and E. coli decreased in the presence of Pseudomonas supernatant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anisopteromalus calandrae (Howard) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) is a parasitoid to several stored product beetles. In this study, this parasitoid was recorded for the first time with density on the cowpea beetle Callosobruchus chinensis L, which was prevalent on both Egyptian bean (Vicia faba L) and cowpea bean (Vigna unguiculata). A full description of this parasitoid and measurements of its body parts were done using a scanning electron microscope. The male and female were differentiated based on the antenna and a set of taxonomic and diagnostic characteristics were found. The current study provides basic information on the external morphology key identification, characteristics and measurements of taxonomically significant portions, backed by micrographs taken with a scanning electron microscope. This description can be used to include them in the taxonomic keys to differentiate them from closely similar species. The present study was carried out at the Atomic Energy Center in Egypt during field observation in small grain stores of cowpea and faba beans where the effectiveness of the parasite to control cowpea beetle, in particular, was observed. This parasitoid was the first time found on cowpea beetle in a high density, which necessitated carrying out an extensive morphological study of A. calandrae in order to identify it for future breeding. Additionally, it can be in future widely used in the biological management of pests that attack stored grains in general, and C. chinensis in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood species identification and characterization of its weathering processes are crucial steps in the scientific approach of conservation of wooden cultural heritage. Many precious wooden objects of ancient Egypt are largely present in museums, nevertheless relatively little information is available concerning the nature of timber used and on their status of conservation. To address this gap, the wooden species of three relevant archaeological wood objects (statue, box, and coffin) arising from different Egyptian archaeological sites dated from the Old Kingdom (2,686–2,181 BC) to New Kingdom (1,550–1,069 BC) were deeply studied. Five hardwood and softwood species were identified belonging to Tamarix mannifera, T. gennessarensis, Ficus sycomorus, Vachellia nilotica, and Cedrus sp. Such data confirmed the recurrence of Vachellia and Tamarix among the most common timbers found in ancient Egypt. Scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform spectroscopy, and synchrotron x‐ray radiation diffraction were conducted to evaluate the archaeological wood deterioration. The formation of microcracks, biological degradation patterns (fungal colonization), or chemical characterization (accumulation of salts on and in‐between wooden cells) were detected. SEM micrographs showed the presence of fungal hyphae and conidial spores on the wooden cells. Significant changes in the chemical wood composition and decrease in the crystallinity index were detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to present the components' characterization and condition assessment of an important deteriorated Mamluk-illuminated paper manuscript housed in Al-Azhar Library, Egypt. Design/methodology/approach: Different analytical techniques used in this study were the portable digital optical microscope, stereomicroscope, scanning electron microscope with EDX (SEM.EDX), portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), pH measurement and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Findings: The results obtained by different microscopes showed that the gilding in the surface of illuminated paper sheets was performed with gold leaves. Additionally, these microscopes revealed that the illuminated paper manuscript has different aspects of deterioration such as adhered dirt, staining, some micro-cracks, cracks and detachment of some parts in some illuminated areas. The results of elemental analysis by EDX, portable XRF and XRD analysis showed that the orange red pigment is red lead (Pb3O4), blue pigment is azurite (2CuCo3.Cu (OH)2), and the gold layer is has consisted of brass alloy (Cu-Zn) with a small amount of gold element (Au). The pH measurement stated that the historical paper in the acidity level. The ATR-FTIR analysis also revealed the oxidation of cellulose. Moreover, it was found from ATR-FTIR that Arabic gum was used as a binder for the pigments. Originality/value: This study presents the important results of analytical methods used for condition assessment and identification of the components of an important Mamluk-illuminated paper manuscript, where these results referred that the studied paper manuscript had different aspects of deterioration. The conservation steps either conservation treatment or preventive conservation are urgently needed in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basalt represents one of the most common stones used in the construction of our archaeological structures. However, basalt is a very dense, compact and hard igneous stone; it is highly deteriorated by physicochemical deterioration factors especially in the open air environments. Cracks are among the dangerous deterioration aspects in basaltic stones. They significantly contribute to accelerate their deterioration rates. Consequently, the cracks in basaltic stones have to be filled with a suitable mortar to stop their harmful impacts. In the present work, four types of organic binder based mortars were prepared and comparatively evaluated to select the best one for filling the cracks occurring in the studied archaeological basaltic stones at Abu Sir area. Examinations and analytical study were performed using transmission electron microscope, polarizing microscope, x-ray diffraction, colourimetric measurement, static water contact angle, compressive strength and scanning electron microscope attached with EDS. The results declared that the mortar named M4 (Acryclirsil + basaltic powder) is the most suitable composite for filling the cracks in the studied basalt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to identify the pigments, ground layer, and previous restoration materials used in a polychrome wooden coffin using multi-analytical techniques. It utilized optical microscopy, technical imaging, scanning electron microscope attached to X-ray dispersion unit, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results showed the use of yellow as goethite a-FeOOH, blue as Egyptian blue [Cuprorivaite (CaCuSi4O10)], red as haematite (a-Fe2O3), and white as calcite (CaCO3). The black pigment as carbon (C) and the binding medium in both the calcite-based plaster layers and the polychrome layers was identified as animal glue. The previous consolidation material was primal AC33. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to study a rare Roman glass cup, consisting of a set of glass breakages, preserved at the Museum of Archeology Department - College of Tourism and Archaeology, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia. The cup was found at Qaryat Al-Faw site (also Qaryat Al-Fau), the capital of the first Kindah kingdom (fourth century BC-fourth century AD). It is located about 100 km south of Wadi ad-Dawasir, and about 700 km southwest of Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia. Qaryat Al-Faw archeological site reveals various features such as residential area, markets, roads, cemeteries, temples, and water wells. On the exterior surface of the glass cup, there are color graphics representing what seems to be Egyptian(zing) elements. This cup was the only one consisting of such elements in all sites cross the Arabian Peninsula. Scanning Electron Microscope and Differential Scanning Calorimetry were applied indicating soda glass type, and compared with the chemical analysis of con-temporary imported pieces from Egypt the present study indicated that no furnaces for the manufacture of glass were found in Qaryat Al-Faw site, which promotes the import hypothesis. According to preliminary interpretations, it is likely that the cup was of a Roman origin and was probably made in Alexandria in Egypt and dates from about the late first-early second century AD, and apparently brought to the site by one of Qaryat Al-Faw merchants. Although Qaryat Al-Faw is also famous of glass remains, there are no information about any local production of glass in the site and no kilns had been found. The local glass industry at Qaryat Al-Faw site, if any, was not documented during archaeological excavations conducted by the Dept of Archaeology, King Saud University. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies some ceramic lustreware dishes with metallic glaze dating back to the Abbasid era (2-3rd century AH/8-9th AD) and preserved in Rashid archaeological stores. The samples were selected based on the diversity of textual and pictoral decorations including written words, plants, animals and geometric elements. The manufacturing process and mineral and chemical composition of the dishes have been subjected to several examination and analytical methods including stereo microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The study revealed a heterogeneous distribution of the color grains on the surface of the dishes and nanoparticles of metallic silver/copper ranging between 50-100nm. The metal oxides of the silver nanoparticles appeared in high percentage compared to nano copper particles on the surface of the lustre metallic layer which fact accounts for the greenish brown color of the dishes. While Arabic gum was used for fixing the decorations, the lustre layer was fired at 500°C and the firing of the ceramic body varied between 700°C and 800°C. A treatment and maintenance plan is suggested to preserve the pieces from further damage owing to their high archaeological value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to evaluate of silica and alumina nanocomposites in consolidation and protection of archaeological glass from early Islamic period in Egypt. Archaeological glass is exposed to deterioration by moisture, as water is considered one of the most dangerous damage factors that attack glass artifacts. This results in many aspects of deterioration including weeping glass, cracks, dulling, formation of weathering crusts, salt growing, and corroded surfaces. From this standpoint, materials which are used in the consolidation and protection of those glass artifacts must have the property of hydrophobicity in order to protect them from the harmful effects of water. In the last decade, polymer-nanoparticle composites have attracted great interest in the field of culture heritage conservation due to their unique multifunctional properties resulting from the high surface area and chemical activity of the nanoparticles dispersed in the polymers. In this study, Silicon dioxide (SiO2) and alumina oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles are added to silicon based polymer (poly alkyl siloxane) (Silres BS-290) in order to improve their physiochemical and mechanical properties. This produced a significant improvement in the ability of the polymers to consolidate and protect archaeological glass. The treated samples are exposed to artificial ageing to test the efficiency of the consolidation materials. The properties of untreated, treated and aged glass samples were evaluated by TEM, stereo microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), colormetric measurements, static water contact angle, density and hardness tests (physical and mechanical properities). Results showed that the treated sample with SiO2/Al2O3/Poly siloxane nanocomposites are good candidates for consolidation and protection of glass objects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The research paper aims to identify archaeometric features, damage and restoration of pottery artefacts from Tell EL-Hir in north Sinai Egypt, one of the archaeological sites dating back to Greco-Roman era. Polarized Microscopy PL", Scanning Electron Microscope with Energy dispersive X-ray unit SEM-EDX, X-Ray Diffraction analysis XRD, and Differential thermal analysis DTA were adopted for investigating and analyzing pottery sherds. The research identified archaeometric features proving that the used clay is Nile clay, the additives are sand, grog and calcite. Shaping technique is potter wheel. Surface treatment is slip layer. Firing atmosphere is oxidizing. Firing temperature might be about 726.78 °C for the first pottery vessel and 737.80°C for the second pottery plate. Research also proved that pottery pieces suffer from various damage aspects such as soil deposits, stains, cracking, fracture, loss of some parts, lack of durability, weakness, and salt crystallization. The studied pottery pieces were treated using mechanical and chemical cleaning using a mixture of acetone and toluene at a ratio of 1:2 respectively to remove clay soil deposits. EDTA was applied to remove lime deposits. Hydrogen peroxide 20% was used to remove soot. Nano Silica 1% was applied to strengthen archaeological pottery. Assembling the pottery sherds was done by Paralloid B72 50%. Replacement pottery plate was conducted by a mixture of Micro balloon and grog in a ratio of 2:1, respectively. After treatment, the pottery artefacts were ready for museum display. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historic areas are at the forefront of global attention because of their historical and social traits that reflect human civilization, giving them an economic weight that helps preserve the city's historical identity. For that, the aim of this paper is based on examining and analyzing the components of a deteriorated stucco window kept in the Restoration Lab of Bab Al-azab Area of the Citadel of Salah al-din Al-ayyubi, which was carried out via different techniques. The stucco window used in this study was inspected using a digital microscope and scanning electron microscope to determine the degradation of the stucco and wooden frame's outside surface. Besides, the polarized microscope involves studying minerals by studying the optical properties of stucco. Also, the light microscope was used to identify the wood. Besides, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) showed the presence of constituent elements for both the stucco and glass. In addition, X-ray diffraction estimated cellulose crystallinity to decrease. A technique called Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) was also used to find changes in lignin, gypsum, anhydrite, and calcite, as well as cellulose and hemicellulose. A microbiological investigation indicated the presence of a fungal infestation on a wooden frame. This study showed that Salah El-Din Castle's semi-separate historical areas can be considered one of its architectural, planning, and historical models, which have their fabric and characteristics. • A Perforation technique requiring technical skills was used to make this window. • The stucco window was carefully examined and analyzed via different techniques. • Microbiological investigation indicated the presence of a fungal infestation of a wooden frame. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although ancient Egypt has a firmly established record of mining and metallurgy of gold and copper, iron production in ancient Egypt is less well documented. Evidence of ancient iron manufacture in Egypt is to be found in the burnt plant remains, slag fragments, and a furnace‐like structure discovered in the Hamama workshop in the Eastern Desert of Egypt. The iron ore required for iron production was delivered from the nearby specular hematite mines of the Abu Gerida area. This Egyptian specularite is geochemically distinguished from other Mediterranean varieties of specularite such as those in Elba, Tuscany, and Seriphos Island. The bloomery iron smelting process in the Hamama workshop produced two types of slags: furnace slags and tapping slags. These two types show different petrographic features and geochemical signatures. Some of the geochemical signatures of the slags, such as their high calcium contents, were derived from charcoal, while others were related to the ore used during the smelting process. Radiocarbon dating of the charred plant remains from the Hamama workshop suggests that the iron smelting activities took place in the early Ptolemaic era. Iron production was seasonal and was conducted by locals who most likely had dynamic socioeconomic ties with the urban centers of the Nile valley. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate a relationship between the microstructure and measurements of Egyptian buffalo hair and age. The buffalo studied ranged in age from young to premature to adult (3-8 months, 1.5-3, 4-6, and 8-10 years). The hair was collected from the animals' withers. Cuticle elements were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), light microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Hair shaft diameter increased with age, according to SEM and light microscopy measurements. The values of shaft diameter obtained by SEM of the same animal were 64%-67% of the values obtained by light microscopy due to shrinkage of the hair during the drying process. Additional microscopy measurements revealed that the width of the cortex and medulla increased with age, while the width of the cuticle decreased slightly. The medulla index of four different age groups ranged from 0.56 to 0.61 μm. The average distance between successive scale values increased from 4.83 μm in the young group to 8.86 μm between the ages of 8 and 10 years. The scale pattern had a distinct personality at each stage of age. The hair medulla was in the center and consisted of a mesh-like structure with large pores divided into smaller pores by septa. The cortex was a bundle of fibers that wrapped around the medulla. Light microscopy revealed small oval granules and large streak-like granules in the cortex. EDX spectra revealed that carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen were shown to be more abundant in all age groups of buffalo. In buffalo hair, oxygen was the second most abundant element after carbon. The carbon mass in the examined samples decreased slightly with age (42.31%, 39.18%, 38.88%, and 38.49%), while oxygen increased with age. We concluded that hair measurements varied with age, scale microstructure, and elements, so we estimated buffalo animals' ages up to 10 years. HIGHLIGHTS: The goal was to show a link between the microstructure and measurements of Egyptian buffalo hair and age. Hair shaft diameter increased with age, according to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy measurements. The hair shaft diameter obtained by light microscopy was higher than that obtained by scanning electron microscopy of the same animal; we hypothesized that the difference in hair shaft diameter measured by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy of the same animal was due to the shrinkage of the hair during the drying process. The width of the cortex and medulla increased with age, while the width of the cuticle decreased slightly. The average distance between successive scale values increased from 4.83 μm in the young group to 8.86 μm between 8 and 10 years old. At each stage of age, the scale pattern had a distinct personality. Carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen were found to be more abundant in the hair of buffalo of all ages and were detected using energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectra. After carbon, oxygen was the second most abundant element in buffalo hair. The carbon mass in the samples studied decreased slightly with age, while the oxygen mass increased. Hair measurements varied according to age, scale microstructure, and elements., (© 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

[Display omitted] • The Late Cretaceous clastics in the Shoushan Basin are divided into five microfacies. • The microfacies heterogeneity is due to the differential implication of the diagenetic factors. • These rocks are divided into some reservoir rock types to get a more accurate reservoir modelling. • The very fine massive sandstone microfacies has the best reservoir quality due to its dissolution. • The laminated siltstone and the bioturbated limestone are highly cemented by silica cement. The Late Cretaceous Upper Bahariya Member is one of the most prolific reservoir sequences in the North Western Desert of Egypt. In this paper, we describe core samples of the Upper Bahariya Member, including core photos, conventional core analysis, petrographical description, scanning electron microscope images, and XRD analysis. Samples for this study are from the reservoir sequence in four wells selected from the Shurouk Field in the Shoushan Basin to delineate the impact of the constraint mineral composition on the reservoir quality. The objective of this study is to get an accurate reservoir characterization of this reservoir by applying the rock typing technique to the studied sequence where four Lithofacies Associations (LFA1, LFA2, LFA3, and LFA4) and four corresponding Reservoir Rock Types (RRT1, RRT2, RRT3, and RRT4) were assigned. These are defined as 1) very fine massive sandstone (LFA1, RRT1), 2) laminated, cross-bedded and bioturbated sandstone (LFA2, RRT2), 3) laminated, highly argillaceous and ferruginated sandstone and siltstone (LFA3, RRT3), and 4) laminated and ferruginated siltstone and well cemented bioturbated limestone (LFA4, RRT4). Petrographically, these lithofacies were categorized into five microfacies; 1) glauconitic quartz arenite, 2) subfeldspathic arenite, 3) glauconitic sublithic arenite, 4) ferruginated subfeldspathic wackes, and 5) sandy fossiliferous packstone microfacies. Conventional core samples include bulk and grain densities (ρ b and ρ g , respectively), helium porosity (∅ He), and horizontal and vertical permeabilities (k H and k V , respectively). The application of the Dykstra-Parsons technique to the available permeability data indicates that the studied sequence is extremely heterogeneous (heterogeneity factor (V) = 0.90). Based on the available samples, the normalized porosity index (∅z), reservoir quality index (RQI), flow zone indicator (FZI), and the discrete rock type values (DRT) were estimated to determine the reservoir quality. The RRT1 samples are characterized by the best reservoir properties (av. ∅ He = 14.7%, av. k H 42.0 = md, av. RQI = 0.47 µm, av. FZI = 2.87 µm, and av. DRT = 13), whereas the lowest reservoir quality is assigned to the RRT4 samples (av. ∅ He = 18.8%, av. k H 0.30 = md, av. FZI = 0.15 µm, av. RQI = 0.04 µm, and av. DRT = 7). The low reservoir quality of the RRT4 is primarily attributed to the predominance of lower quality features (compaction effect, cementation, and presence of glauconite and authigenic minerals). Following the Improved Stratigraphic Modified Lorenz (ISML plot), the Upper Bahariya reservoir is subdivided into five Hydraulic Flow Units (HFUs) such as the HFU-2, and the HFU-4 that are considered superconductive flow units that alternate with three poorly hydraulic conductive HFUs (HFU-1, HFU-3, and HFU-5). The present integrated sedimentological and petrophysical workflow is considered a significant study of the Shoushan basin which can improve exploration activities as well as production optimization. In addition, dividing the studied clastic sequence into five microfacies association and four reservoir rock types can be extended to other equivalent subsurface Late Cretaceous clastic sedimentary rocks in the vicinity and other basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dolomite is a carbonate mineral of calcium and magnesium having the chemical formula CaMg(CO 3) 2. It is a reservoir for significant petroleum reserves and mainly used as building and ceramic material. Thermoluminescence (TL) emission of this mineral has been examined in the literature, especially collected from Egypt, India, and Brazil. In this study, the aim is to investigate TL properties of dolomite mineral which has a wide reserve in Mersin/Turkey. Structural, morphological, and elemental analyzes were performed by X-ray Diffraction (XRD) Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscope equipped with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (SEM-EDS), and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP/MS), respectively. TL measurements were carried out using a TL/OSL reader with a90Sr/90Y beta source. The natural TL (NTL) curve of the sample showed two peaks at around 255 and 345 °C by the wideband blue filter whereas an additional peak at 115 °C was observed under the beta irradiation. In addition, at high doses from 50 Gy, a shoulder at around 402 °C occurred. The optimum annealing temperature and duration of the sample were determined as 500 °C and 30 min. In order to remove the low-temperature peak, a preheating process at 200 °C with 23 s duration was applied before each TL readout. TL response to absorbed dose showed good linearity over the 0.1–1200 Gy dose range and the sample was observed to be reusable with only 1.7% change up to 10 cycles under a dose of 100 Gy. The kinetic parameters (activation energy E (eV), frequency factor s (s−1), kinetic order b) of the evident glow peaks were estimated using Peak Shape (PS), Various Heating Rate (VHR), Initial Rise (IR), and Computerized Glow Curve Deconvolution (CGCD) methods. The kinetic analysis indicated that the TL glow curve of the preheated sample consists of four individual peaks having activation energies of ∼1.56, 1.60, 1.78, and 1.73 eV, and these peaks obey second and general-order kinetics. • TL character of natural dolomite mineral originating in Turkey was investigated. • TL glow curve of the β-irradiated sample exhibited three peaks at 110, 255, and 345 °C and a shoulder at 402 °C at high doses. • The sample shows a good linear TL response in the 0.1–1200 Gy β-dose range. • The sample can be reused up to 10 sequential cycles with the deviation of 1.7%. • TL kinetic analyses revealed the decomposed peaks have second- and general-order kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]