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This study aims to: (1) examine the impact of cybersecurity disclosure on banks' performance and (2) explore whether the existence of a chief risk officer (CRO), an information technology (IT) committee, and a board of directors (BOD)' size moderates the association between cybersecurity disclosure and bank performance. The study used manual textual analysis to measure cybersecurity disclosure in a sample of listed banks in the MENA region countries based on data from 2019 to 2021. The data were collected from annual reports and financial statements of banks available at Orbis Bank Focus database. The study employed a random effect regression model to test the hypotheses and discuss the results. The findings show that banks in the MENA region are increasingly interested in disclosing cybersecurity information, where cybersecurity disclosure over the sample years is increasing from 17% in 2019 to 19.6% in 2021. In addition, the results show that cybersecurity disclosure has a positive and significant influence on bank performance. Furthermore, the findings indicate that the presence of a CRO moderates the relationship between cybersecurity disclosure and bank performance. These findings show that depending largely on a bank's CRO to handle complex and dynamic risks can have serious consequences for decision making processes connected to managing cybersecurity risk and disclosure. This paper creates a new research paradigm by focusing on the disclosure of cybersecurity information in the MENA banking sector, where exploring the moderating role of the CRO, IT committee, and board size in enhancing the cybersecurity disclosure-bank performance relationship is lacking. The findings provide practical implications for various stakeholders, where it reveals the current practices of cybersecurity disclosure of banks in the MENA region with the objective of minimizing information asymmetry, maintaining public trust, and identifying potential risks of financial distress. In addition, the results direct the attention of banks and regulators toward the role of CRO in risk governance, particularly in managing cyber risks within the banking industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to explore individuals' economic empowerment and political empowerment association and the moderation role of entrepreneurship development programs on this relationship in the context of post-revolution Tunisia, which is a newer developing democracy. Design/methodology/approach: The study uses a quantitative approach based on econometric modeling. A questionnaire was designed and administrated to a stratified random sample of 343 participants in the Entrepreneurship for the Participation and Inclusion of Vulnerable Youth in Tunisia program, funded by the United Nations Democracy Fund and implemented in rural northwestern Tunisia between 2017 and 2021. A coarsened exact matching method is also applied for robustness analysis. Findings: The analysis shows that when individuals have enhanced economic decision-making agency and are involved in economic networks, they are more likely to demonstrate higher political empowerment. It also shows that expanding rural individuals' economic opportunities by providing entrepreneurial resources, such as entrepreneurial training and microcredit, strengthens individuals' economic empowerment and political empowerment association. Practical implications: The study provides practical implications for policymakers in newer developing democracies. Citizens' political empowerment and inclusion in rural areas could be promoted by developing entrepreneurship development programs, which could help reinforce the citizens-state relationship and establish more stable social contracts. The research also provides practical implications for the international development community, donor agencies and program designers through duplicating similar programs in other countries with weak central government structures (i.e. post-conflict environments, post-revolution). Originality/value: The research attempts to contribute to the ongoing debates linking entrepreneurship, economic empowerment and political/citizen empowerment. It focuses on a Middle East and North Africa country, Tunisia, characterized by socioeconomic issues and low civic participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this scoping review was to assess the physical, social, and mental health factors associated with food insecurity among refugee children in the MENA region. The Arksey and O'Malley (2005) York methodology guided the review. Included studies emphasized physical, social, and mental health factors associated with food insecurity among MENA refugee children. Twelve limitation categories were identified based on recurrence across studies. Major themes were highlighted from lessons learned across studies. Results may contribute to an understanding of limitations to consider when developing food relief interventions among children's refugees in the MENA region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study analyzes the impact of competition on environmental and social performance. Based on data collected from 82 banks in the banking industry across nine emerging Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) countries from 2015 to 2021, the results indicate that heightened competitive pressure compels banks to enhance their efforts in environmental and social initiatives. Additionally, a positive correlation is observed between greater Board gender diversity (BGD) and improved environmental and social performance. Finally, the results indicate that the negative impact of market power on environmental and social performance is less pronounced in banks with higher BGD, those operating in countries with a better institutional environment, and in state‐owned banks. In contrast, the negative impact is more pronounced in Islamic banks. Our research findings provide insights into the current discourse on strategic decision‐making in the context of sustainability, shedding light on the benefits associated with competition and gender diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cirrhosis comprises a significant health challenge in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region impacting healthcare systems and communities. This study sought to investigate trends in the burden of cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease, different etiologies, deaths, and the disability burden utilizing data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. Methods: Analyzing epidemiological trends from 1990 to 2021 across 21 MENA countries, this research utilized data on age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR), age-standardized death rates, and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) to evaluate the burden of cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease. The study also examined national variations and sociodemographic relationships. Results: The study identified a 114.9% increase in cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease incidence within the MENA region between 1990 and 2021, with 7,344,030 incident cases reported in 2021. The ASIR showed a steeper rise in females (9.6%) compared to males (7.0%). Etiology-specific analysis revealed an increase in the ASIR for MASLD related cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease by 22.2%, while those due to alcohol as well as hepatitis B and C decreased by 28.1%, 59.3%, and 30%, respectively. Despite the rising incidence, overall age-standardized death rates across all etiologies decreased by 54.3%, with DALYs showing a 51.4% decrease during the same period. Country-specific trends varied significantly, with Oman recording the highest annual ASIR increase (0.64%), and Qatar observing the most substantial annual reduction in age-standardized death rates (-2.88%). Conclusion: The study highlights evolving trends in cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease within the MENA region, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive, etiology, and gender-specific interventions. Despite an increasing incidence, the observed improvements in mortality rates and age-standardized disability burden indicate progress in public health efforts to mitigate cirrhosis's impact. These findings point to the complex nature of cirrhosis outcomes and the urgent need for tailored strategies to manage its increasing burden effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet‐based interventions have proven to be effective for the treatment of depression in different samples, but evidence from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate the acceptance and efficacy of an internet‐based cognitive behavioural writing intervention for Arabic‐speaking participants with depression living in the MENA region. A total of 259 participants (167 female, age in years: M = 25.58, SD = 6.39) with depressive symptoms indicative of clinical relevance were randomly allocated to a treatment group (TG; nTG = 128) or a waitlist control group (WG; nWG = 131). The TG received an internet‐based intervention over a 6‐week period. The primary outcome was depressive symptoms, and secondary outcomes were anxiety and quality of life (QoL). T‐tests with change scores from pre‐ to post‐treatment were used for data analyses. Intention‐to‐treat (ITT) as well as completer analyses were calculated. The ITT analysis revealed significant differences between the TG and WG in depression (T257 = −4.89, p < 0.001, d = 0.70) and QoL (T257 = 3.39, p < 0.001, d = 0.47). Significant differences regarding anxiety symptoms (T257 = 3.25, p < 0.05, d = 0.53) were identified for the completer sample. The general dropout rate was 39.9%. The results indicate the feasibility and efficacy of an internet‐based cognitive behavioural writing intervention in adults from Arabic‐speaking countries. The development and implementation of such interventions can be used to improve access to psychological help and adequate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whilst research on Wasta has been improving in quantity and quality, there is still much more to know about the interactions between the different parties in Wasta transactions, the role of power in this process and how it impacts HR functions. As such, this research aims to address this gap by exploring the use of Wasta in human resources (HR) functions, drawing on 17 semi-structured interviews with HR, recruitment and line managers working in the Jordanian banking sector. This paper focuses on the roles of trust and power in the organizational transactions in which Wasta is positioned and identifies recruitment and selection (R&S) as one of the main human resource (HR) practices and procedures that are affected by Wasta. The findings shed light on the impact of Wasta on HRM practice on the micro and macro levels, highlighting the complex socio-economic needs for this practice which, whilst they might be beneficial on the micro level in terms of securing employment for job seekers and benefits for organizations in the Wasta exchange process, can also have some substantive negative outcomes in the forms of social and economic exclusion of others outside the Wasta network. By doing so, it develops the conceptualization beyond the often-simplistic view of Wasta as a negative (and sometimes positive) practice as viewed by previous research extending it to a practice that could have either impact on different stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the effect of information and communication technology (ICT) usage on economic growth in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a focus on how education levels modulate this relationship. Covering data from 2000 to 2020 and employing a panel ARDL model for analysis, this research finds that, while ICT is prevalent across MENA, its impact on economic growth is negative. Furthermore, it reveals that education plays a crucial role in determining ICT's effectiveness on economic growth. However, the positive impact of education is overshadowed by the adverse effects of brain drain, which negates the potential benefits ICT could have on the economy. This study highlights the importance for MENA policymakers to address the brain drain issue to enhance the positive impact of ICT on economic growth, suggesting the need for strategies that leverage both ICT and education to effectively foster economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the relationship between corporate governance structures and financial flexibility for conventional and Islamic banks in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. We construct a novel financial flexibility index (FFI) for the banking sector and examine the impact of the Shari'ah supervisory board (SSB), board size, and risk governance on financial flexibility. We find that board size and risk governance significantly affect banks' financial flexibility for Islamic and conventional banks. However, Shari'ah governance rules determine how that relationship is manifested in Islamic banks. We show that SSB size and busy SSBs enhance Islamic banks' financial flexibility. Our results show that Western corporate governance structures may lead to suboptimal financial flexibility. Banking policies should re‐evaluate the impact of one‐size‐fits‐all approaches to corporate governance while promoting 'soft policies' to banking regulation that are value‐enhancing for the banking sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significant increase in harmful GHG emissions has led to dramatic global climatic changes. Thus, a need arises for clean, sustainable, economically viable energy sources. Prink hydrogen is the production of hydrogen using a nuclear energy source. No clear legislation regulates the utilization and operation of hydrogen in general and pink hydrogen in particular. This study analyzes nuclear energy regulations in various countries and regions and introduces a gap analysis in the nuclear field, comparing the under-established to the well-established regulatory bodies. This study utilized a harmonious blend of analytical tools utilizing both a gap analysis and an integrated decision-making methodology. Gap analysis showed a weak regulatory infrastructure, which hinders the adoption of pink hydrogen in some regions. Strategies were suggested in this study to address the identified weaknesses and threats linked to pink hydrogen technology to enhance energy security. [Display omitted] • List of nuclear energy policies and regulations in various countries and regions. • Gap analysis of nuclear energy regulations. • Decision-making techniques for proper implementation of pink hydrogen production. • Recommendations for proper implementation of pink hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lower extremity amputations (LEAs) significantly contribute to mortality and morbidity, often resulting from peripheral artery disease and diabetes mellitus (DM). Traumatic injuries also account for many LEAs. Despite the global burden, the epidemiology of LEAs, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, remains underexplored. This study utilizes the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) dataset to analyze temporal trends in LEAs in the MENA region from 1990 to 2019. Methods: The study utilized the 2019 GBD dataset, which includes estimates for incidence, prevalence, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) across 369 diseases. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) for LEAs were extracted for 21 MENA countries. Trends were analyzed using percentage change calculations and Joinpoint regression to identify significant shifts in LEA rates over time. Results: From 1990 to 2019, male LEA rates generally decreased, while female rates increased. Significant increases in LEA rates were observed in Syria, Yemen, and Afghanistan, correlating with periods of conflict and instability. Conversely, countries like Iraq, Palestine, Sudan, Lebanon, Iran, and Kuwait saw marked decreases. The study highlighted a complex interplay of socio-political factors, natural disasters, and chronic diseases like DM in shaping LEA trends across the region. Conclusion: The study reveals variable LEA trends in the MENA region, influenced by conflicts, natural disasters, and chronic diseases. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions, improved healthcare access, and robust data collection systems to reduce the burden of LEAs and improve patient outcomes in the MENA region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The urban heat island (UHI) effect denotes that temperatures in urban areas are often higher compared to the rural background. This human‐induced phenomenon can exacerbate heat stress and adverse health impacts, adding to ongoing global warming. To examine the intensity and variability of the UHI effect, we used 40 years (1980−2019) of observational data (daily maximum and minimum temperature) from the Global Summary of the Day (GSOD), comprising about 1000 stations of varying temporal extent, spanning the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The MENA is characterised by hot and dry summers and warms faster than other inhabited regions worldwide. The challenge in using data with diverse spatial and temporal extents is accounting for heterogeneities between each station comprising an urban–rural pair. One has to allow for differences in the distance between the pairs and, elevation, spatial–temporal changes in urbanisation as well as the distance from the coast. A new method is proposed, based on flexible statistical methods (Generalized Additive Models or GAMs), to quantify the temporal trend in the UHI effect while allowing for the aforementioned characteristics using regression splines of appropriately defined variables. A composition of high‐resolution satellite geospatial information, related to urbanisation properties and population data was utilised from the Global Human Settlement Layer database (GHSL‐SMOD), to characterise the stations in terms of their urbanisation type. These data were also used to quantify temporal changes in the extent of urbanisation relative to the surrounding areas. Results indicate consistent upward trends of the UHI effect in the MENA (up to ~0.5°C), particularly at night (daily minimum temperature) during all seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scholars have extensively studied mega‐sporting events' impact and legacies. However, these studies typically focus on the host city or country. The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the first mega‐sporting event in the Gulf region, evoked a deeper reflection on the legacy of such events. After conducting 21 in-depth interviews with participants from nine Arab nations and utilizing constructivist grounded theory, new perceptions of mega‐event legacy emerged. Arab pride, tangible outcomes, an accessible success model, a technical legacy, making sports a key part of Arab social life, boosting social capital, and a hazy sense of sorrow represented the indirect outcomes of the Qatar 2022 World Cup for Arab countries. The similarities between Qatar and its neighbors have shaped indirect perceptions. Although the perceived outcomes were favorable, some Arab citizens may have experienced conflicting feelings of sorrow. The findings shed light on the legacy of mega‐sporting events beyond the host nation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to re-examine the effect of foreign direct investment on environment quality using the load capacity factor in 16 Middle East and North African nations from 1990 to 2018. The study utilizes several econometric models to test linear and nonlinear effects and identify potential U- and inverted N-shaped relationships between foreign direct investments and environment quality. The analysis also examines the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis by testing for U- and inverted N-shaped relationships between gross domestic product per capita and environment sustainability. The results indicate an inverted U-shaped relationship between foreign direct investment and environment quality. Furthermore, the cubic model results show an N-shaped relationship between gross domestic product per capita and environment quality, supporting the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis. In contrast, no N-shaped relationship exists between foreign direct investment and environment quality. These results demonstrate the importance of economic growth and foreign direct investment in improving environmental conditions in the region through the necessity of attracting environmentally friendly investments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the viability of introducing solar thermal desalination technology as a means to supplement existing water production methods in the Republic of South Africa (RSA). The study provides an overview of the current state of desalination technology in the country. A key aspect of this study involves comparing the RSA with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, using publicly available studies and reports. The focus of this comparison is to highlight the potential implementation of large-scale solar desalination in the RSA by evaluating the respective resources and environmental data that directly impact the input and output of a thermal desalination system. The study comparatively analyzes the environmental conditions and seawater salinity of the RSA and the MENA region. The RSA receives a higher solar irradiation range of 4.5–6.5 kWh/m2, whereas the MENA region experiences a range of 3.5–5.5 kWh/m2. Additionally, the salinity of the RSA's seawater ranges between 35 and 35.5 parts per thousand, which is lower than the MENA region's range of 36–40 parts per thousand. The study also reviews and proposes the adoption of an emerging thermal desalination method that has been successfully tested in the MENA region and other countries, based on its performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study aims to: (1) examine the impact of cybersecurity disclosure on banks’ performance and (2) explore whether the existence of a chief risk officer (CRO), an information technology (IT) committee, and a board of directors (BOD)’ size moderates the association between cybersecurity disclosure and bank performance. The study used manual textual analysis to measure cybersecurity disclosure in a sample of listed banks in the MENA region countries based on data from 2019 to 2021. The data were collected from annual reports and financial statements of banks available at Orbis Bank Focus database. The study employed a random effect regression model to test the hypotheses and discuss the results. The findings show that banks in the MENA region are increasingly interested in disclosing cybersecurity information, where cybersecurity disclosure over the sample years is increasing from 17% in 2019 to 19.6% in 2021. In addition, the results show that cybersecurity disclosure has a positive and significant influence on bank performance. Furthermore, the findings indicate that the presence of a CRO moderates the relationship between cybersecurity disclosure and bank performance. These findings show that depending largely on a bank's CRO to handle complex and dynamic risks can have serious consequences for decision making processes connected to managing cybersecurity risk and disclosure. This paper creates a new research paradigm by focusing on the disclosure of cybersecurity information in the MENA banking sector, where exploring the moderating role of the CRO, IT committee, and board size in enhancing the cybersecurity disclosure-bank performance relationship is lacking. The findings provide practical implications for various stakeholders, where it reveals the current practices of cybersecurity disclosure of banks in the MENA region with the objective of minimizing information asymmetry, maintaining public trust, and identifying potential risks of financial distress. In addition, the results direct the attention of banks and regulators toward the role of CRO in risk governance, particularly in managing cyber risks within the banking industry.

Abstract Background Cirrhosis comprises a significant health challenge in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region impacting healthcare systems and communities. This study sought to investigate trends in the burden of cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease, different etiologies, deaths, and the disability burden utilizing data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. Methods Analyzing epidemiological trends from 1990 to 2021 across 21 MENA countries, this research utilized data on age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR), age-standardized death rates, and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) to evaluate the burden of cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease. The study also examined national variations and sociodemographic relationships. Results The study identified a 114.9% increase in cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease incidence within the MENA region between 1990 and 2021, with 7,344,030 incident cases reported in 2021. The ASIR showed a steeper rise in females (9.6%) compared to males (7.0%). Etiology-specific analysis revealed an increase in the ASIR for MASLD related cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease by 22.2%, while those due to alcohol as well as hepatitis B and C decreased by 28.1%, 59.3%, and 30%, respectively. Despite the rising incidence, overall age-standardized death rates across all etiologies decreased by 54.3%, with DALYs showing a 51.4% decrease during the same period. Country-specific trends varied significantly, with Oman recording the highest annual ASIR increase (0.64%), and Qatar observing the most substantial annual reduction in age-standardized death rates (-2.88%). Conclusion The study highlights evolving trends in cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease within the MENA region, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive, etiology, and gender-specific interventions. Despite an increasing incidence, the observed improvements in mortality rates and age-standardized disability burden indicate progress in public health efforts to mitigate cirrhosis’s impact. These findings point to the complex nature of cirrhosis outcomes and the urgent need for tailored strategies to manage its increasing burden effectively.

Abstract Background Lower extremity amputations (LEAs) significantly contribute to mortality and morbidity, often resulting from peripheral artery disease and diabetes mellitus (DM). Traumatic injuries also account for many LEAs. Despite the global burden, the epidemiology of LEAs, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, remains underexplored. This study utilizes the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) dataset to analyze temporal trends in LEAs in the MENA region from 1990 to 2019. Methods The study utilized the 2019 GBD dataset, which includes estimates for incidence, prevalence, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) across 369 diseases. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) for LEAs were extracted for 21 MENA countries. Trends were analyzed using percentage change calculations and Joinpoint regression to identify significant shifts in LEA rates over time. Results From 1990 to 2019, male LEA rates generally decreased, while female rates increased. Significant increases in LEA rates were observed in Syria, Yemen, and Afghanistan, correlating with periods of conflict and instability. Conversely, countries like Iraq, Palestine, Sudan, Lebanon, Iran, and Kuwait saw marked decreases. The study highlighted a complex interplay of socio-political factors, natural disasters, and chronic diseases like DM in shaping LEA trends across the region. Conclusion The study reveals variable LEA trends in the MENA region, influenced by conflicts, natural disasters, and chronic diseases. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions, improved healthcare access, and robust data collection systems to reduce the burden of LEAs and improve patient outcomes in the MENA region.

Based on the Global Party Survey (GPS) database, this research article explores the interaction between populism and Islamism in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) party systems. Drawing on the ideational approach to populism, this analysis shows that Islamist parties do not share a common populist profile. Rather, we can speak of three broad profiles according tSalamanca, Spain, Institute of Iberoamericao the three main dimensions of populism. While the Moroccan Party of Justice and Development (PJD) displays a populism dominated by people-centrism, the Rally of Algerian Hope (TAJ), the Tunisian En-Nahda (EN), and the Jordanian Islamic Action Front (IAF) profiles are dominated by anti-elitism. On the other hand, the Turkish Justice and Development Party (AKP) is heavily influenced by Erdogan's leadership and its strongman impetus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the influence of recent technological advancements and collaborative networks on the burgeoning landscape of digital entrepreneurship, particularly within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. For this purpose, the research design employs a mixed-method approach, which combines qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Semi-structured interviews with MENA-based entrepreneurs have provided in-depth insights into the dynamics of the digital entrepreneurial ecosystem, and the perceived impact of technology on their ventures. Subsequently, a quantitative survey has been administered to eighty respondents, and the data is analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), with Partial Least Squares (PLS) path modeling. The findings from both methodologies are expected to illuminate the positive influence of technological advancements and collaborative networks on digital entrepreneurship within the MENA region. Gaining an understanding of these factors can guide policymakers in fostering innovation in ecosystems and stockholder investments that support collaborative digital ventures in the MENA region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the significant research on environmental issues, there has not been considerable investigation on the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis in the MENA nations using both CO2 emissions (CO2e) and ecological footprint (EF) environmental indicators in the same setting. Therefore, the primary goal of this research is to re-examine the EKC hypothesis in 18 MENA nations from 1990 to 2018 using a panel data model labeled the pooled mean group autoregressive distributed lags (PMG-ARDL). We employ CO2e and EF as environmental quality proxies to deal with all types of pollutants, not only air pollution, as well as the demand side of environmental assets. The outcomes of the econometric study revealed the absence of the EKC hypothesis using CO2e in contrast to EF where the hypothesis is held in the entire group and both oil-exporting and importing countries. Moreover, population and non-renewable energy significantly harm the environment in the three sub-sample groups of countries in this study. This is what requires the governments of these countries to strive more toward achieving environmental sustainability by preserving the environmental capacity of the region and reducing emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review explores our understanding of Cryptosporidium species and Giardia duodenalis distribution in Middle East and North African (MENA) water resources. Results emphasize that Cryptosporidium species (sp.) and G. duodenalis (oo)cysts are present in distinct categories of water in ten MENA countries. Cryptosporidium sp. proportional prevalence in the MENA region was 24.5% (95% CI 16.3-33.8), while G. duodenalis prevalence was 37.7% (95% CI 21.9-55.1). Raw wastewater and surface water were the water categories most significantly impacted. Both parasites were reported in the various types of MENA drinking waters. The most frequent species/genotypes reported were C. hominis, C. parvum, and G. duodenalis assemblage A. Despite the high prevalence of (oo)cysts reported, we should consider the absence of waterborne outbreaks. This indicates significant underestimation and underreporting of both parasites in MENA. Stakeholders should apply water contamination legislation to eradicate Cryptosporidium sp. and G. duodenalis (oo)cysts from water resources/categories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-parasitic nematode research in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region faces significant challenges rooted in a need for proper assembly, diversity, and a unified and purpose-driven framework. This led to exacerbating their detrimental effects on crop production. This systematic review addresses the current situation and challenges that require targeted interventions to sustainably manage plantparasitic nematodes and reduce their detrimental impact on agriculture production in the MENA region. We analyzed the nematode-related research conducted within the region over the past three decades to assess available resources and promote diverse research approaches beyond basic morphology-focused surveys. We show that crops are attacked by a diverse spectrum of plant-parasitic nematodes that exceed the global economic threshold limits. In particular, Meloidogyne species exceed the threshold limit by 8 - 14-fold, with a 100% frequency of occurrence in the collected soil samples, posing a catastrophic threat to crop production and the economy. We highlight detrimental agriculture practices in theMENA region, such as transferring soil from established fields to barren land, which enhances the dissemination of plant-parasitic nematodes, disrupting soil ecology and causing significant agricultural challenges in newly cultivated areas. Looking into the behavior of farmers, raising awareness must be accompanied by available solutions, as more practical alternatives are needed to gain the confidence of the farmers. We propose integrating microbial-based products and soil development practices in hygienic farming as resilient and sustainable solutions for nematode management. Increased emphasis is required to diversify the nematode-related research areas to bridge the gaps and facilitate the transition from fundamental knowledge to practical solutions. A cohesive network of nematologists and collaboration with national and international entities is crucial for exchanging knowledge related to legislation against invasive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the multifaceted landscape of Building Information Modeling (BIM) adoption and implementation across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region's construction industry. Employing an online survey methodology, the research scrutinizes the varied profiles of contractors. Through regression analysis, the study investigates the impact of institutional pressures on the contractors' BIM adoption, implementation, encountered barriers and challenges, expected benefits and outcomes, and related expertise and training. The analysis then extends to evaluate the interrelationships among such BIM variables. The key findings reveal significant influences of institutional pressures on BIM adoption and benefits as well as their expected benefits and outcomes but less impact on overcoming BIM barriers and challenges and enhancing expertise and training. The research highlights the limited role of BIM expertise and training in the adoption, implementation, and realization of its benefits and outcomes within the MENA construction sector. Furthermore, the study concludes that barriers, challenges, benefits, and outcomes don't have a significant effect on BIM's adoption and implementation. The study also evaluates the primary benefits and outcomes of BIM alongside the main barriers and challenges encountered. Crucially, the research identifies and dissects the salient barriers to BIM deployment, such as awareness and expertise deficiency, financial and human resource constraints, training shortages, and resistance to change. This study not only provides a detailed snapshot of the BIM landscape but also lays the groundwork for addressing the persistent challenges and harnessing the full potential of BIM in revolutionizing construction methodologies in the MENA region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic had disruptive consequences for MENA countries' agri-food value chains that exacerbated poverty and jeopardized food security. This study examines the relationship between individuals' perception of contracting COVID-19 and their experience of food insecurity, using longitudinal data from the Combined COVID-19 MENA Monitor Household survey. It also investigates the underlying mechanisms of COVID-19 concerns and explores coping strategies employed by households to identify vulnerabilities in food security. The results provide compelling evidence of a strong association between individuals' concern about the virus and various dimensions of food security, particularly reduced purchasing power and decreased meal frequency. Notably, this association follows an inverted U-shaped curve, with food insecurity initially increasing as worry grows, but declining after individuals contract the virus. High levels of concern were also linked to significant income decreases and worsening economic conditions. Moreover, individuals with higher concerns were more likely to rely on specific coping strategies, particularly spending savings and obtaining funds from relatives or friends. These findings underscore the need for government interventions during disease outbreaks and economic downturns to focus on alleviating individuals' worry and fear to facilitate informed decision-making that minimizes food insecurity consequences. Additionally, the findings emphasize the need to strengthen social protection systems during public health and economic challenges to ensure food security for vulnerable populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of virtual exchange on disrupting dangerous narratives about the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region among preservice elementary teachers in the Midwestern region of the United States. The virtual exchange program provided direct interaction with teacher candidates in Morocco. Analysis of pre- and post-exchange memos revealed a significant shift from negative narratives to positive, generalized perceptions of the MENA region. While the shift towards positive generalizations represents progress, it also emphasizes the need for nuanced understanding and ongoing engagement. After participating in the exchange, pre-service teachers also communicated a strong desire to teach about the world and its people. This study highlights the possibilities of virtual exchange as a tool for preparing future educators who have been influenced by post-9/11 educational and media narratives. It advocates for the integration of virtual exchange as a mainstream approach to foster teaching for global understanding among teacher candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building on the Arab Barometer seventh wave survey, which highlights the regional priorities on climate change, water resources, and environmental development in Middle East and North Africa, this paper explores the potential for a module on "Law, Religion and Environmental Sustainability". The module aims to mainstream environmental sustainability in the legal education curriculum through forging the intersections between law, religion, and the environment. The growing body of interdisciplinary research on religion and environmentalism mainly involves scholars from academic disciplines such as sociology, theology, and religious studies, but not law. The Arab Barometer results indicate that citizens' environmental concerns are mostly linked to the micro level, without directly reflecting on related macro level issues. However, religious beliefs and faith systems often cut across the micro and macro levels, and could potentially advance environmental and sustainable development objectives. Moreso, there have been pockets of non-international armed conflicts that are in some ways tied to religious beliefs and cultural values on access to natural resources such as land and water. This paper addresses how to train law students to embrace and contribute to the emerging field of religion and environmentalism. Such training would equip law graduates to (a) have a good understanding of the contemporary social, economic and political context of environmental governance and sustainable development laws; (b) appreciate the interlinkages between law, religion and environment at a theoretical and practical level; and (c) be better equipped to maximise the opportunities and resolve tensions that may arise from mainstreaming legal principles, including human rights and justice, in advancing sustainable development goals, including environmental sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of governance arrangements for access, use and control of land and resources is being increasingly recognized by international institutions. This paper overviews land governance initiatives being promoted by UN Habitat, and the growing importance of rapidly developing geospatial technologies. The paper next addresses land governance issues in the MENA region, particularly the Arab Land Governance initiative, and presents a brief case study of Oman's land governance, and its effects upon society, urban settlement patterns, and land markets. Issues of education and training for better land governance are discussed. Recommendations and conclusions address the issues and ways forward for the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose — The current study seeks to understand whether individual stock returns exhibit random movement and are not dependent (efficient at weak form) on fourteen out of sixteen actively traded Arab stock markets in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, based on the size of the market value. Method — Various non-parametric methods, including autocorrelation test, variance ratio test, Phillips-Perron unit root test, and runs test, are used to assess the random walk hypothesis for daily data following the Covid-19 vaccination program. This analysis covers the period from January 3, 2021, to March 28, 2023. Result — The study results present evidence that all individual stock returns deviate from random walk behavior. However, only Kuwait, Jordan, and Palestine stock returns follow the random walk based on the run test results at a significance level of 10%. Therefore, it can be concluded that all stock returns are inefficient at the weak-form, suggesting that investors have opportunities for unexpected gains.. Practical implications — The findings of this study suggest that investors in the MENA region may have opportunities for unexpected gains, as individual stock returns deviate from random walk behavior, highlighting the importance of considering market dynamics and employing informed investment strategies. Additionally, policymakers could benefit from understanding the inefficiencies in stock returns to implement measures that promote market stability and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to determine and appreciate the role of control of corruption combined with environmental entrepreneurship on CO2 emission quality. To attain this objective, the researchers developed a model to examine the relationship between environmental entrepreneurship and environmental degradation, taking into account the effects of corruption and financial market development in the long and short run. This study was performed for 15 countries in the Middle East and North African region between 2000 and 2019 by adopting a PMG-ARDL approach. Findings show that (i) real income significantly increases carbon dioxide emissions, while environmental entrepreneurship decreases pollution; (ii) control of corruption can improve environmental quality by influencing environmental entrepreneurship and carbon dioxide emission relationship; and (iii) financial development does not affect the environmental entrepreneurship and carbon dioxide relationship. The conclusion highlights the critical role of controlling corruption to achieve environmental sustainability in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region through the adoption of environmental entrepreneurship. The empirical investigation provides captivating findings concerning the environmental sustainability process, which has important policy implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We investigate how GVC participation and centrality in the intermediate trade network are associated with firms' productivity in the MENA countries. • Using several measures of GVCs, we show that firms in GVCs are more productive. • Multi-level estimations show that country-sector intermediate trade network centrality is also positively associated with firms' productivity. • Results are confirmed using propensity score matching and shift-share instrumental variable approach. Global Value Chain (GVC) participation is typically associated with a productivity premium, yet similar firms can benefit differently depending on the possibility for creating production linkages offered by their countries' involvement in trade. We show that country-sector intermediate trade network centrality is also positively associated with firms' productivity, suggesting that the connectivity of the business environment may enhance productivity on top of direct firm-level involvement in GVCs. For a large cross-section of MENA countries included in the World Bank Enterprise Surveys (WBES), we find evidence of productivity premia using several firm-level GVC participation measures and network centrality indicators constructed from the EORA input-output tables. Centrality is also positively associated with firms' productivity, adding to the direct effect of GVC participation. Our results are confirmed using OLS, multi-level models, Propensity Score Matching techniques, and a Shift-Share instrumental variable approach which help addressing endogeneity issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resource abundance characterizes economies within the MENA region from North Africa to the Middle East. As such, to improve financial development (FD) for regional economic sustainability, this study provides a comprehensive analysis of the roles of natural resources abundance and institutional quality indicators on the region's FD while underscoring the inflationary levels and general economic growth trends amidst rising globalization. The adopted empirical strategy (CS‐ARDL and AMG) is employed for potential cross‐sectional dependency (CD) and slope homogeneity in the regional data spanning over two decades (2000–2020). Unlike the extant literature, two separate regional FD indicators were considered for an insightful analysis namely, banking financial services via domestic credit to private sector, and financial stability via the Z‐score values showing the tendencies of default in a country's banking structure. Regardless of the FD indicator, the results reveal that natural resources, growth trends, and inflationary levels significantly spur long‐run regional FD thereby invalidating the financial resource curse hypothesis in the region. Furthermore, both institutional quality levels and globalization produced detrimental impacts on FD levels. However, the interaction between institutional quality levels and natural resources shows a desirable FD‐stimulating effect in the region, noticeably when FD is proxied by the Z‐score. Thus, implying that stronger institutions are crucial for MENA's overall financial stability vis‐à‐vis reduction in the risk of default in the banking system. Hence, policy recommendations including the strengthening of institutional capacities among others, were suggested to regional authorities toward harnessing resources for sustainable regional FD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study empirically explores the legitimacy of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis for four economies from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, considering the environmental quality measured by carbon dioxide emissions and national income proxied by real GDP per capita from 1980 to 2018, and employed the ARDL approach. The cointegration results reveal that there persist long-run associations among the series of interest and for each country. Results of ARDL show the validity of the EKC hypothesis for Turkey and unconventionality for the UAE in the long run, while reject its validity for Algeria, Egypt, and the UAE in the short run, and for Turkiya and UAE in the long run, while it is not valid for Algeria. Overall, the empirical estimates on the validity of the EKC hypothesis are found mixed. These empirical findings suggest to design efficient, prudent, and economically feasible environmental protection policies, whereas to start public awareness projects to improve environmental quality in order to achieve sustainable development in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The majority of MENA countries suffer low levels of human development, coupled with scarcity of funding resources, low level of governance, and poor institutional environment. Consequently, this research aims at detecting the impact of development finance resources and institutional quality on the human development in the MENA region, in order to examine if/why the MENA countries fail to efficiently exploit all the available financial inflows to promote human development and boost living standards. Design/methodology/approach: This study tests the short- and long-run impact of six financing resources representing injections in the economy and four institutional quality variables on the human development index in the MENA region. It adopts co-integration analysis, vector error correction model, and Granger causality test on a sample of 13 MENA countries over the period 1996–2019. Findings: This research finds that domestic credit to private sector and exports of goods and services do not have any significant added value for human development in the MENA region. In contrast, government expenditures and migrant remittances are found to be crucial in promoting human development in both the short- and long-run. FDI and ODA do enhance human development, but only in the short-run. In parallel, control of corruption, government effectiveness and regulation quality are essential boosters of human development in the MENA region, but with different importance, while political stability was found to be irrelevant. Originality/value: To the authors' best knowledge, this is the first study that examines the impact of financial inflows and institutional quality on the overall human development index in the MENA region. The contribution of this paper lies in unlocking for policymakers the potential impactful financing resources to serve national developmental plans, in an endeavour to catch up to the SDGs amid the additional challenges imposed by governance and institutional environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The current study assessed the epidemiological trends of semen phenotypes and their association with ethnicity among men seeking fertility treatment in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Methods: This retrospective study assessed the anthropometric information including age, body mass index (BMI), and nationality, along with semen parameters of men who visited a Fertility Center in Abu Dhabi, UAE between January 2011 and July 2022. To understand the epidemiological trend of semen parameters amongst UAE nationals, propensity score analysis and logistic regression were performed. Thus, the exposure variable of interest is ethnicity, categorized into UAE nationals (Emirati) and Others (minus UAE; Global). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, R packages and STATA. Results: In this study, 32,664 samples were collected from 19,482 patients from 113 countries worldwide over a period of 11 years. Most participants made multiple visits, with around 40 % attending at least once. Following covariates adjustment, logistic regression indicated a non-significant increase (4 %) in the prevalence of asthenozoospermia among the UAE population compared to Global. Further modeling adjusted for propensity score and Emirati status suggested that Emiratis were 13 % less likely to have lower total sperm count (TSC) compared to Global (p