KFAS LOGO A SYMBOL OF SCIENCE, TRADITION AND CULTURE
KFAS’ logo epitomizes the nation’s traditional and scientific culture. It celebrates the glorious past and envisages the future that encompasses immense opportunities and aspirations along life’s journey on its endless coast.
Each icon embedded within the logo signifies an individual and unique idea, represented by a scientific symbol. KFAS’ support for traditional and cultural values is denoted by the two hands that uphold the symbolic emblem.
The scientific symbols (sun, mathematical equation, microscope, atomic orbit and the sail), illustrated here to represent individual disciplines in science, are derived from the KFAS logo. The background of the sail behind every symbol demonstrates the Kuwaiti perspective behind all scientific endeavors.
1 Board of Directors
2 Members
Adel K. Al-Sabeeh Adnan A. Shihab-Eldin Hassan A. Al-Ebraheem Mohammed E. S. Al-Duwaihees Naief H. Al-Mutairi Yaqoub M.A. H. Hayaty
Ali A. Al-Shamlan Director General
Sulaiman A. Al-Awadi Board Secretary RESEARCH DIRECTORATE
The Research Directorate (RD) derives its inspiration and symbol from the heart of KFAS’ logo. The Directorate logo is a blend of the sun and the sail, representing the infinite energy that sets the boundless directions in Science and Technology. The English letters ‘R’ and ,’ﺏ ‘ and ’ ﺃ ‘ ,D’ and the Arabic letters‘ embedded within the logo, represent the title of the Directorate.
4 Staff
Mahmood Y. Abdulraheem Director
Mohammad A. Taqi Shafiqa A. Al-Awadi Fatimah M. Al-Awadhi Mohamed A. Darwish Sheba M. Mathew Johaina A. Al-Hamdan Aisha S. Al-Olaimi Manal S. Al-Ebrahem Anwar O. Bin Amer Hanan J. Boodai Nadia H. Masri Sunita V. D'Souza Mirvette M. Samara Sawsan M. Sayed Hadia M. Saker Mohammed Shaker Sheikh Zahid Ali Hind A. Al-Bahairi
Part-time Consultants
Nazar M. Chaudry Sukumaran N. Sreekumar Research Areas
6 Biological Sciences (BS) Research in Biological Sciences are represented by the sun that reflect life and the study related to it. By attributing green to the particular area of science, it signifies research pertaining to living organisms on land, sea and air as well as studies on natural resources.
Engineering Sciences and Technology (ES) Projects in Engineering Sciences and Technology are associated with the mathematical equation of relativity by Albert Einstein and classified by a shade of blue, relating to the technical thrust on the application of science and mathematics and the processes of matter, products, systems and structures.
Medical Sciences (MS) The microscope is the icon used to indicate research in Medical Sciences and is categorized by pink. It identifies the diagnostic probe undertaken in research to address healthcare problems and maintain the optimum welfare of the people.
Natural Sciences (NS) Research studies in Natural Sciences, reflected by the natural shade of beige, are symbolized by the atomic orbit icon to imply research in basic sciences that is implemented to preserve and conserve the natural spheres of sciences for promoting complete environmental progress.
Social Sciences and Humanities (SS) The traditional sail, classified by mauve, provides the oriental setting to studies in Social Sciences. It highlights the rich national heritage, culture and values that sustain human development and valuable efforts undertaken to trigger social progress in the country. Scientific Directorates and Offices
8 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Research Directorate Supports and promotes basic and applied research in the country. Enhances scientific activities by encouraging Kuwaiti establishments, scientists, and researchers. Establishes research programs and collaborates with international scientific community for national progress.
Scientific Cultural Directorate Supports scientific, cultural programs, publication of scientific books and production of documentary films. Aims at developing national scientific and technical potentials and establishes KFAS’ scientific role at the international level.
Prizes Office Awards annual prizes in various disciplines for meritorious contributions by scientists and researchers in the State of Kuwait and other Arab and Islamic countries.
International Programmes Office Monitors and executes agreements established with organizations and academic institutions around the world. Supportive Directorates
10 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Directorate of Administration Supervises the implementation of administrative rules and regulations. Conducts administrative tasks and public relations.
Directorate of Finance Supervises and monitors KFAS’ funds to scientific projects and activities. Collects and maintains record of contributions from Shareholding Companies.
Directorate of Engineering Provides technical and maintenance support and supervises construction projects. Table of Contents
12 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate PREFACE 15
INTRODUCTION 17
RESEARCH DIRECTORATE (RD) 18 RD Mission 18 RD Objectives 18
RD ACTIVITIES 18
A. Development and Administration of Scientific Programs 18 1. Research Funding Program 18 2. Water Resources Program 19 3. Kuwait Shareholding Companies Program 20 4. Environment Program 20
B. Funding Scientific Research 22 1. Research Project Submission (Proposal) 23 2. Research Project Evaluation 23 3. Research Project Execution 24
C. Information and Scientific Documentation 24 1. Development of Information System 24 2. Printing and Publication 24 3. Distribution 25
PEER-REVIEWER INSTITUTIONS 26
STATISTICAL OVERVIEW 28 1. Annual Statistical Indicators (2009) 28 2. Cumulative Indicators (1978 -2009) 32
FUNDED RESEARCH AREAS 34 Biological Sciences 36 Engineering Sciences and Technology 74 Medical Sciences 112 Natural Sciences 134 Social Sciences and Humanities 154
INDEX: LIST OF PROJECTS 188
PARTNERS IN DEVELOPMENT 208 Preface
14 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) recorded another successful year (2009) in the annals of scientific accomplishments, particularly with reference to fiscal contributions in support and promotion of scientific programs, projects and activities, as they constitute some of the major elements of scientific advancement. We are convinced that multi-dimensional progress can be achieved with keen and constant support for research initiatives and in the realization of developmental plans, which set the strategic directions towards achieving KFAS’ mission and facilitating scientific, economic, educational and social development in the country and the region.
During the year, KFAS was able to bring to record significant scientific achievements under the benevolent leadership of the Chairman, His Highness, the Amir, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (may God Almighty bestow protection and care upon him), whose directives, guidance and support prompted us to take progressive strides towards new horizons of science. KFAS has once again reiterated its continued commitment to science and technology at all levels and advancement of progress and prosperity in the nation. At the national level, KFAS earnestly sought to address its objectives and arrive at solutions to emerging problems; at the regional level, it established effective co-operation with scientists for the promotion of scientific research in diverse areas and at the global level, collaboration with international scientific institutes kept us abreast with modern developments. With more than three decades of significant contributions to high-priority research projects and dissemination of valuable outcomes, KFAS has managed to establish a vital link with the world scientific community.
I would like to take this opportunity to commend the Research Directorate team for the efficient administration of research projects and the renewed efforts and dedication in developing comprehensive and purposeful research programs. Pertinent and sound decision-making mechanisms, optimum exploitation of available resources to address priority issues and effective communication form the basis on which a scientific organization thrives.
I hereby express my sincere gratitude to the Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies for rendering their financial support and encouragement to continue with our earnest efforts to address global issues. KFAS will continue to work towards greater accomplishments for the fulfillment of its noble vision and for the betterment of the humankind.
Professor Ali Abdullah Al-Shamlan Director General, Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences
15 Introduction
16 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate The vital outcomes of diverse scientific research projects sponsored by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) have once again pointed out the significance of scientific research and its positive role in addressing crucial and emerging issues in the State of Kuwait. This was also reiterated by international peer-reviewers who evaluated research project proposals and expressed strong support for research studies and projects with potential benefits to the nation.
It is in recognition of the immense role of the Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies in promoting various scientific activities that the Research Directorate initiated the Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies Program, with an attempt to link basic and applied research for achieving greater scientific advancements. During the year, two specific projects were implemented, namely, ‘Institutional Development of Companies’ and ‘Enhancing the Capabilities of the Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies in the Decision-Making Process: Developing Compound Indicators’.
This report documents the vital mission and objectives of the Research Directorate, highlighting the major scientific programs and activities as well as the mechanism of research grant awards for various scientific research projects. The statistical overview section presents data on research projects that were sponsored by KFAS and the beneficiaries of the research grants. An overview of completed projects (technical article) provides a summary of the research undertakings, along with some important recommendations. The report also sheds some light on the progress of ongoing projects, in addition to a brief overview of new projects funded during 2009. Finally, the report presents a summary of KFAS’ support for national and international organizations since the establishment of KFAS, “Partners in Development”.
In publishing this report, the Research Directorate accomplishes its purpose of propagating KFAS’ relentless support for science and scientific advancement at the global level. Therefore, the distribution of the report to local and international academic, scientific and research communities is given top priority.
KFAS solicits readers’ views and suggestions on the report and its contents via email: [email protected] or [email protected].
17 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE (RD) The vital role of the Research Directorate is to promote intellectual development, scientific culture, technical skills and links with scientific institutions for exchange of scientific know-how.
RD MISSION The mission of RD is to support and nurture national ventures in science and technology so as to develop the inherent scientific capabilities in the nation and thus contribute to the scientific and technical advancement of the country. The Directorate also endeavors to unite the efforts of all scientists and experts in the academic and research faculties as well as the public authorities and organizations in the private sector to address issues of national concern. Focus is also towards the development of human resources, preserving the national heritage, achieving international collaboration for the purpose of accomplishing KFAS’ scientific objectives.
RD OBJECTIVES The broad objective of KFAS is to support and sustain scientific development in the nation within all spheres of human life - intellectual, cultural and human skills and to encourage scientific initiatives by national researchers and scientific institutions and thus enhance the national scientific infrastructure. Specific RD targets are as follows: • To support and monitor scientific research and programs that are funded by KFAS so as to address national issues in collaboration with international experts and promote development in academic and research fields by encouraging and involving the public as well as the private sectors. • To support and encourage local scientific talents and initiatives that are directed towards solving problems and to encourage participation for the benefit of technical advancement and preservation of national heritage. • To encourage international collaboration with scientific establishments for the purpose of technology transfer at the national level. • To provide a scientific database on research subjects and scientists in different areas of research and to establish mechanisms to exchange information and scientific knowledge.
RD ACTIVITIES The Research Directorate endeavors to accomplish KFAS objectives by implementing strategies, administrative and financial procedures and executing various activities in accordance with stipulated regulations. Major activities involve the following: A. Development and Administration of Scientific Programs B. Funding Scientific Research C. Information and Scientific Documentation.
A. Development and Administration of Scientific Programs The Directorate’s focus was mainly on executing various scientific programs that effectively address its mission and objectives.
1. Research Funding Program The Research Funding Program constitutes an integral part of the Directorate’s activities, aimed at encouraging local researchers and supporting the institutional infrastructure dedicated to research by providing grants under the following sub-programs:
• Basic and Applied Research Funding KFAS funds are allocated to research in basic and applied sciences that have the potential to lead to breakthrough discoveries in target areas of vital significance to the State of Kuwait. Applications for research grants are solicited from local academic, public and private institutions for promoting co-operative research and enhancing scientific progress through mutual
18 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate partnerships among academic and technical groups. KFAS encourages national innovative ideas and skills by supporting short-term exploratory projects. They are special projects that address national issues and are generally recommended by the Board of Directors. The sub- program provides opportunities for young researchers/inventors to explore and utilize their scientific talents. KFAS has funded a number of projects under this sub-program. Projects under the Special Grants sub-program are approved by KFAS Board of Directors or the Director General and relate to specific studies that address particular national issues.
• Assigned Research Project Funding The Assigned Research Project Funding program was initiated in 1985 when KFAS Board of Directors assigned certain projects of national priority that target social, economic and scientific concerns. The program procedures are similar to the Basic and Applied Research Funding and the projects are monitored by the Board of Directors. Under this program 17 projects were undertaken. In view of creating awareness among the youth on contemporary events and developments and in keeping abreast with the scientific aspirations of the nation as well as that of other Arab/ Islamic nations, the Research Directorate undertook the project entitled, Kuwait’s Scientific Encyclopedia for Children. The encyclopedia documents information on modern techniques in science, technology and innovation and it is reproduced in an electronic format, a product of earnest attempt by a group of experts who strove hard to achieve the compilation of 17 volumes, the last of which was released in 2005. Another group of experts dealing with the compilation and translation (into English) of the Dictionary of the Holy Quran, completed and released sections on: ‘Zoology’ and the first part on ‘Eminent Scholars’. Revisions were being undertaken on lexicons dealing with ‘Geology’ and ‘Astronomy’. The second volume on ‘Eminent Figures’ was expected to be released next year, while review and editing of the lexicon related to ‘Ethics’ and ‘Faith and Worship’ were progressing. The Research Directorate documented the completed sections on CDs and distributed them to several officials, experts, libraries, institutes, including Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies.
2. Water Resources Program Water is one of the most crucial issues today, not only in the Middle East but the whole world. KFAS Board conducted a study, in an attempt to solve the emerging problems and to identify the means and methods to address the increasing demand for water in the country. Driven by the urgency of the issue, the Board decided to initiate the “Water Resources Program” under the umbrella of the Research Directorate, continuing the previous efforts in supporting studies and scientific research as well as developing the scientific and technical capabilities of individuals in various water-related fields. One of the objectives of this program is to formulate a strategic vision for establishing a distinguished scientific center for water-related research that is capable of meeting the requirement of scientific research and expediting co-operation and integration with concerned organizations in executing research projects in order to meet the challenges and resolve the difficulties. A bibliographic database of international specialists in water sciences and technologies was established in order to utilize their expertise in evaluating/executing scientific projects as well as conducting research studies. A scientific committee was formed under the Water Resources Program. A number of meetings were held to evaluate water-related research projects, which were part of KFAS’ Joint Strategic Plan, prepared with the joint efforts of KFAS, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) and the Ministry of Energy (Electricity and Water). The priority levels of the research projects were identified. A Regional Consultative Committee was established for charting out strategic plans for the establishment of a Center for Water Resources Research and Studies.
The diverse activities for the fiscal year included the following: - The Scientific Committee for the “Water Resources Program” held several meetings to review projects by KISR and other coordinating groups. The Committee also recommended the participation of faculty members from Kuwait University in the execution of the projects and in the preparation of the Terms of References (TOR). Eleven applied research project proposals, dealing
19 with renewable energy systems and several applications, particularly in the areas of electricity generation and seawater desalination in the State of Kuwait, were technically reviewed. - An Arabic document was prepared, entitled, “Electricity Generation and Seawater Desalination Using Nuclear Energy in the State of Kuwait and the Gulf Countries”. The book comprised of the following five chapters: • An Introduction to Nuclear Energy. • Power Generation in the State of Kuwait and the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries and Proposed Nuclear Power Plants. • The Steam Cycle in Nuclear Power Plants and its Association with Desalination Plants. • The Chernobyl Disaster and the Possibility of its Re-occurrence. • Nuclear Energy and Environment-related Issues.
- A Seminar was organized on “Nanofiltration Pre-treatment to Seawater Influents in Distillation Plants” in order to discuss the feasibility of applying the technique in the desalination field using distillation processes in the State of Kuwait, as per the proposal put forward by the Ministry of Electricity and Water. Specialists from KISR, Kuwait University (KU) and the Ministry of Energy were invited to discuss the scientific, technical and economic aspects of the subject.
- A lecture, entitled, “Wrong Practices in Household Water Systems and their Threats”, was held during a seminar organized by KISR on 19th November 2009, under the patronage of the Director General of KISR, entitled “Water Filters Used for Household Purposes”.
- Executive Committee meetings were held on the subject of conservation of the use of electricity and water in government organizations, chaired by the Minister of Energy and attended by more than 30 members representing various ministries and organizations in order to assess the feasibility of the measures adopted by the organizations in reducing excessive consumption of electricity. New plans were proposed to support conservation programs.
3. Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies Program The Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies (KSC) Program was established with the purpose of providing support to national organizations in order to facilitate them to upgrade information, technical know- how and scientific expertise in various fields. The major thrust was on establishing a vital link between basic and applied research and coordinating the efforts in developing local technical capabilities by providing the essential resources and optimizing benefits. It also aimed at addressing prevailing concerns, risks and challenges encountered by the nation and thus optimizing the benefits of the program. During this fiscal year, the following projects were approved for execution: • “Institutional Development of Companies” (Kuwait University). • “Enhancing the Capabilities of Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies (KSC) in Decision-Making: Developing Compound Indicators”.
The Research Directorate also coordinated with several local and international consultation offices in order to elicit proposals, based on the TOR. The proposals that were obtained were then forwarded to the Consultation Committee for necessary action.
4. The Environment Program Environmental issues are crucial concerns of KFAS, addressed with priority and urgency. This is manifested in the support provided to scientific research in various environmental fields for the purpose of attaining sustainable development in the ecological, economic and social fields. The program aims at preserving the natural resources, reducing waste generation, eradicating adverse environmental effects due to regional activities, lessening pollution and mining of natural resources by developing and promoting safe and environment-friendly technologies and production methods.
20 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Accordingly, in keeping with the strategic plan, the Research Directorate undertook the following: - KFAS signed a joint contract with Harvard University and Kuwait University to establish Kuwait Center for Environment and Health and the related programs and activities:
• An amount of U.S.D. 750,000 was awarded for the implementation of the initial planning and mobilization phase for the establishment of the Kuwait National Center for Health and Environment/National Health Data Repository. • The report on the first phase of the project discusses the institutional elements needed to establish the legal-administrative foundations for the proposed Center and provides a tentative timetable for achieving the goals. The report also describes the initial research studies, the proposed Burden of Disease Study and plan to develop the proposal for the Epidemiological Pregnancy/Birth Cohort Study. • The Research Directorate reviewed and evaluated the documents and forwarded specific points on the administrative and scientific details of the project to Harvard University for consideration while concluding the first phase of the project and finalizing the proposal for the second phase.
- KFAS approved and funded K.D. 150,000 for the project, “Climate, Water and Vegetation in the State of Kuwait: Phase 1”, jointly undertaken by Kuwait-MIT Center for Natural and Environmental Resources, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research and Kuwait University. An ad-hoc committee was also formed to follow-up on the Center’s initiatives and implementation of its activities.
- A project Proposal entitled, “High Resolution Historical Records of Trace metals and Organic Pollutants from Sediments and Coral Reefs in Kuwait” was evaluated and finalization of the terms and conditions of contract and other project details were also underway.
- Study of the Environmental Status of the State of Kuwait: The Organizing Committee was assigned the responsibility of conducting annual seminars on environment under its new title, ‘Committee for Investigating the Environmental Status in the State of Kuwait’. Several smaller workgroups were to be constituted under the following categories:
1. Outdoor and Indoor Pollution. 2. Pollution of Marine Environment and Deterioration of Fish Resources. 3. Destruction of the Desert Environment and Deterioration of Groundwater Resources. 4. Environmental Pollution by Urban, Industrial and Medical Waste.
The workgroups were to identify and propose research projects that probe the present and future environmental status of the State of Kuwait, seeking appropriate solutions and recommendations directed towards the protection of the environment and sustaining development within the State of Kuwait. Currently RD is in the process of monitoring and reviewing formalities and procedures for the execution of high-priority projects, in accordance with the Environment Program Strategy. They include projects that fall within the following categories:
- Determination and Continuation of the Standards for Air Quality in the State of Kuwait. - Statistical and Biological Monitoring of the Fish Resources in the State of Kuwait. - Evaluation of the Groundwater Reserves in Wells (Dammam Formation and Kuwait Group Aquifers).
Research Directorate is in the process of finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between KFAS and Public Authority for Assessment of Compensation for Damages Resulting from Iraqi Aggression (PAAC) concerning the areas of co-operation in studies related to the Rehabilitation of Kuwait’s Environment Program.
21 - KFAS participated in the following symposia/conference/workshop/meetings: • Experts’ Meeting on Health and the Environment, at the invitation of WHO Regional Office, to follow-up on the recommendations of the Committee during its previous session and suggest areas to be included. • Seminar held at KISR on ‘Development and Climatic Changes’. • Regional Workshop on Local Agricultural Techniques in Arid and Semi-Arid Regions, held at KISR, in conjunction with KFAS, International Center for Protected Agriculture, UN Environment Program, OAPEC International Development Fund and ACSAD, to implement the recommendations of the Arab Group dealing with international environmental agreements related to biodiversity and combating desertification, as proposed by the Arab Ministerial Council for Environmental Affairs • Necessary arrangements are underway to organize the Energy and Climate Forum.
The Environment Program does not function in isolation but is closely linked to the water resources program and the public health and petroleum priority programs. At the national level, there is coordination with the Environmental Public Authority in terms of joint framework in executing programs and activities included in the Environment Program Strategy. Additionally, cooperation with other environment-related organizations is also maintained for the purpose of achieving sustainable national and regional development.
B. Funding Scientific Research Contributions from Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies (a percentage of their net profit) constitute KFAS’ research fund, which is utilized to sustain and promote national research. There are specific rules and regulations that govern the research grant award process. Research project proposals are solicited from local academic, public and private institutions. The major disciplines under which research projects are classified are: • Biological Sciences (BS) • Engineering Sciences and Technology (ES) • Medical Sciences (MS) • Natural Sciences and (NS) • Social Sciences and Humanities (SS)
The specific areas of study are further classified into the following: • Environment • Public Health • Economy • Oil, Petroleum and Petrochemicals • Water Resources • Industry • Agriculture and Fisheries Annual 0 • Infrastructure (Energy, Construction, Transportation, Communication, etc.) • Education and Teaching • Information Technology • Manpower Development • Society and Culture • General
22 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate 1. Research Project Submission (Proposal) The Research Directorate receives applications for grant awards from local institutions in the form of research proposals. All research proposals should provide clear and descriptive account of the research that is proposed, including the research objectives, budget, methodology, output, citations, etc. along with CVs of the main researchers involved in the project. Researchers may refer to the Guide published by RD, ‘The Research Grant Manual’, for any clarifications on the procedures, evaluation standards or project execution. Applicants’ adherence to the guidelines will facilitate and expedite the evaluation and grant award process.
2. Research Project Evaluation The review process adopted by RD is in accordance with international standards and regulations (Fig. 1). On receiving a research proposal from the applicant, a preliminary review is conducted by RD to ensure its conformity with KFAS policies and procedures. Subsequently, the proposal is assessed by scientific professionals (local and international) who are experts in the related field of study. The project is evaluated in detail, based on certain criteria established by RD in order to ensure its national significance, relevance and scientific excellence. The peer review process forms the basis of RD’s decision-making mechanism and the grant award process.
Director CV General
Forms 1-7 Research Proposal Director Project Assessment
Cover Letter
Partially No Compliance with Project Amend Proposal KFAS policy Declination
Yes
Evaluation Scientific Process Assessment Relevant Modification
Not recommended for Funding KFAS Decision
Grant Approval
Fig. 1. Research Project Evaluation Process.
23 3. Research Project Execution Following the review process and the approval for research funding, a contract is signed by KFAS and the beneficiary institute(s), in accordance with the stipulated conditions (Fig. 2). Henceforth, RD monitors the progress of the project until its completion, reviewing all the interim reports submitted by the project leader. Periodical payment schedule is activated only on compliance with the proposed objectives. During the reporting year, RD received 89 project progress reports and reviewed them in accordance with proposed targets.
Implementation Process
Final report ......
Grant Approval First Payment Start of Project 3rd report 2nd report 1st progess report
Report Evaluation
No Report Compliance with Modification Proposed Plans
Yes
Release 2nd Payment Release 3rd Payment ......
Final Payment
Fig. 2. Research Project Execution Process.
C. Information and Scientific Documentation A strong information exchange source, that facilitates vital exchange of scientific information for all interested scientific groups, forms the basis of any ideal scientific institution. Therefore, the Research Directorate paid considerable attention in setting up a vital information database structure that would serve the scientific community to achieve excellent results in their endeavors. The Directorate also took efforts to publish the final results of research studies funded by KFAS and distributed them to various beneficiary institutes and organizations.
1. Development of the Information System The Research Directorate (RD) developed an integrated and automated program with the aim of establishing an electronic database that provides vital scientific information on various scientific studies for the benefit of the scientific groups who aspire to undertake future research in the country or enquire on the past research undertakings. RD enhanced the scientific procedures as well as the administrative tasks related to project undertakings. As of 2009, all relevant project information for the years 1987 up to 2009 was successfully archived and updated into the system.
2. Printing and Publications The Research Directorate publishes periodical reports and documents that focus on the various programs and activities that were undertaken. They include the following:
24 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate • Final Reports At the conclusion of a research project, the project leaders submit a comprehensive report to RD, documenting in detail the project objectives, methodologies, final results, scientific applications and the concluding recommendations. The valuable information is reviewed, published and archived by RD for future references. Total four reports were printed and distributed during the fiscal year.
• Annual Report Annual Report, published every year by RD, both in English and Arabic, chronicles the scientific accomplishments, research trends and directions, statistics and information on all KFAS-funded research projects that are ongoing as well as completed during the reporting year. Projects are classified by scientific disciplines for easy and quick reference. The Annual Report is circulated to local and international scientific communities, government authorities, academic institutions, as well as diplomats world-wide.
3. Distribution RD presented the following documents (80 copies) to top local organizations, Kuwait Shareholding Companies, academic institutions, regional and international organizations, embassies in Kuwait as well as Kuwaiti cultural attaches abroad: • Evaluation of Selected Corrosion Protection Systems for Reinforced Concrete Structures in the State of Kuwait. • Preparation of Improved Hydrotreating Catalysts Using Modified Supports and an Optimized Impregnation Process. • Pilot Scale Production of Seed Potato via Tissue Culture. • Application of By-Catch Reduction Devices to Kuwait’s Shrimp Fishery.
25 PEER-REVIEWER INSTITUTIONS
State of Kuwait Sultanate of Oman Amiri Hospital Sultan Qaboos University Arab Open University Arab Planning Institute State of Qatar Dar Al-Shifa Hospital Qatar University Kuwait Audit Bureau Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research United Arab Emirates Kuwait University United Arab Emirates University Public Authority for Applied Education and Training Environment Agency - Abu-Dhabi Regional Organization for Protection of the University of Sharjah Marine Environment Royal Hayat Hospital Sabah Hospital Arab Republic of Egypt The Industrial Bank of Kuwait Assiut University Cairo University Kingdom of Bahrain Egyptian Insurance Institute University of Bahrain Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Yarmouk University Amman Arab University for Graduate Studies King Abdulaziz University Mutah University King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre United Kingdom King Saud University Bangor University Naif Arab University for Security Sciences Plymouth Marine Laboratory Saudi Aramco University of Hull Saudi Food and Drugs Authority University of New England University of Reading 26 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Kingdom of Belgium United States of America Ghent University Auburn University Colorado State University Canada Cornell University Mcgill University Indiana State University University Of British Colombia Langston University Michigan State University Republic of Finland Mississippi University New Mexico Institute Meteorological Institute Nova Southeastern University Kingdom of Spain Ohio University Pennsylvania University Spanish Council of Scientific Research Research Triangle Institute Schlumberger Limited Greece State University of New York Institute for Olive Tree and Subtropical Plants of University of Arizona Chania University of Arkansas University of Delaware Australia University of Florida Queensland University of Technology University of Maryland University of Texas Netherlands University of Wisconsin-Madison IVM Institute of Environment Virginia Institute of Marine Science Vrije Universiteit Virginia Tech West Virginia University Republic of Singapore National University of Singapore
27 STATISTICAL OVERVIEW
1. Annual Statistical Indicators (2009) The primary mission of the Research Directorate at KFAS is to promote scientific research through financial support to diverse projects in various scientific fields and to implement research programs aimed at addressing priority issues both at the local and regional levels. In the fiscal year 2009 alone, subsequent to an intensive peer-review process and in-house evaluation of a number of research project proposals, the Research Directorate, approved and funded 44 new research project proposals in basic and applied sciences, with an aggregate fund of K.D. 1,671,282 (U.S.$. 5,761,055).
450000 402,745 400000 363,612 355,340 326,960 350000 300000 222,625 250000 200000 150000 100000 KFAS Research Fund in K.D. 50000 0 Biological Engineering Medical Natural Social Sciences Sciences Sciences and Sciences Sciences and Humanities Technology
Fig.1. KFAS’ Contribution to New Research Projects in 2009
During the year, KFAS’ contribution to research projects in Social Sciences was the highest (Table 1), in comparison to other scientific areas. This significant upsurge can be attributed to ten new projects that were implemented under the recently introduced Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies Program. KFAS’ supportive stance towards the private sector’s role is evident from the maximum funds that were directed to the research activities for enhanced economic, social and institutional development in the State of Kuwait.
Table 1 indicates that 50% of the total funds for the fiscal year was awarded to new research projects under Biological and Engineering Sciences, which proposed to focus on the conservation of the natural resources, advancement of efficient and enhanced technologies for improving groundwater, seawater and wastewater resources as well as the development of a national emergency plan to evaluate any potential cross-border nuclear releases.
28 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Table 1. New Research Projects by Scientific Area (2009)
KFAS Contribution Area Number of Projects in K.D. Bi ological Sciences (BS) 11 363,612
Engineering Sciences & Technology (ES) 11 355,340
Medical Sciences (MS) 5 222,625
Natural Sciences (NS) 7 326,960
Social Sciences and Humanities (SS) 10 402,745
Total 44 1,671,282
The following Table enlists grantee institutions that were awarded research funds in 2009. Research Projects from Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) numbered the highest, accounting for a maximum of 47% of the total KFAS funds for the year. Kuwait University followed next, procuring 37% of the total funds awarded during the year. KFAS has once again demonstrated strong support for the enhancement of research activities and scientific infrastructure within indigenous scientific and academic institutions.
Table 2. New Research Projects by Grantee Institutions (2009)
Number of Total Amount Institution Projects in K.D. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) 20 793,302
Kuwait University (KU) 12 625,190
Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET) 3 62,050
Ministry of Health (MOH) 1 58,625
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 1 58,000
Kuwait Dyslexia Association 1 18,460
Kuwait Logistics Shipping Services Co. 1 16,050
FAWSEC 1 10,675
Globalization E-Commerce Company 1 10,500
*University of Massachusetts Medical School – USA 1 8,250
KUNESCO 1 5,580
Women’s Cultural Society 1 4,600
Total 44 1,671,282 *Scholarship for Kuwaiti Post-Graduate Students
29 The Research Directorate at KFAS facilitates the Research Grant Award process by carefully monitoring the progress of the research projects that are implemented. Research grant awards are released in installments, as per the contractual Grant Letter of Agreement, in accordance with stipulated regulations stated in the KFAS Research Grant Manual. Table 3 denotes the research grant payments that were released during 2009 and Table 4 lists the beneficiaries of the grant payments during the same year.
Table 3. KFAS Contributions to Sciences (2009) Amount Area Number of Payments in K.D. Biological Sciences (BS) 46 350,487
Engineering Sciences and Technology (ES) 30 278,200
Medical Sciences (MS) 25 252,502
Natural Sciences (NS) 20 244,298
Social Sciences and Humanities (SS) 22 294,764
Total 143 1,420,251
Table 4. Beneficiaries of Research Grant Award
Number of Amount Institution Payments in K.D. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research 75 644,347
Kuwait University 47 535,005
Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET) 4 39,350
Ministry of Heath 3 45,625
Other Institutions 14 155,924
Total 143 1,420,251
30 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate The peer-review process and the in-house evaluation and follow-up procedures constitute the major functions within the Research Funding Program at the Research Directorate. During the fiscal year, administrative and scientific follow-up tasks were focused on the following 121 research projects (Table 5).
Table 5. Research Projects by Scientific Area and Status
Area New Ongoing Completed Total
Biological Sciences (BS) 11 12 9 32
Engineering Sciences and Technology (ES) 11 10 10 31
Medical Sciences (MS) 5 10 3 18
Natural Sciences (NS) 7 4 5 16
Social Sciences and Humanities (SS) 10 2 11 23 Total 44 38 38 120
Table 6 presents the total research project progress reports that were reviewed in 2009. A total of 99 reports were scrutinized for the progress undertaken within the reporting period, in accordance with the proposed deliverables stated in the research project proposal. Total extra funds amounting to K.D. 51,902 were released to ongoing projects which incurred additional expenses.
Table 6. Research Reports Reviewed in 2009
Area Number of Reports
Biological Sciences (BS) 31
Engineering Sciences and Technology (ES) 24
Medical Sciences (MS) 20
Natural Sciences (NS) 10
Social Sciences and Humanities (SS) 14
Total 99
31 2. Cumulative Indicators (1978-2009) Since 1978 KFAS has supported national scientific research and development with an aggregate contribution of K.D. 21,451,098 (U.S. $ 73,944,300) for 717 research projects. Table 7 provides the classification of the sponsored research projects by scientific area.
Table 7. KFAS Contribution to Sponsored Research by Scientific Area (1978 - 2009)
KFAS Contribution AREA Number of Amount % % Projects in K.D. Biological Sciences (BS) 104 15 4,111,723 19
Engineering Sciences and Technology (ES) 197 27 6,475,942 30
Medical Sciences (MS) 115 16 3,770,206 18
Natural Sciences (NS) 98 14 3,091,270 14
Social Sciences and Humanities (SS) 203 28 4,001,957 19
Total 717 100 21,451,098 100
KFAS’ role is rooted in its mission to support overall national development, in particular, enhanced intellectual and scientific progress in the nation. Over the years, KFAS has upheld its noble vision with the implementation of relevant programs and projects that sustain institutional development, whether academic or research or centers of excellence within the State of Kuwait.
Table 8. KFAS Contribution to Institutional Research (1978 - 2009)
KFAS Contribution INSTITUTION Number of Amount % % Projects in K.D. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research 265 37 10,106,675 47
Kuwait University 233 32 5,053,507 24
Public Authority for Applied Education & Training 52 7 548,437 3
Ministry of Health 26 4 728,927 3
Others 141 20 5,013,552 23
Total 717 100 21,451,098 100
Table 8 points out to the fact that KISR topped KFAS’ list of beneficiary institutes for the last three decades, accounting for the maximum number of projects (265) and grant awards (K.D. 10,106,675).
32 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Table 9. Total Funds for Assigned Research Projects (1985 - 2009)
KFAS Area Completed Ongoing New Total Contribution in K.D. Biological Sciences 1 - - 1 270,676
Engineering Sciences & Technology 2 - - 2 97,721
Social Sciences and Humanities 13 1 1 15 3,000,070
Total 16 1 1 18 3,368,467
Under the Assigned Research Funding Program, 16 projects were completed from 1985 to 2009. Two major projects are currently being revised and updated by KFAS, namely, the Dictionary of the Holy Quran and the Children’s Scientific Encyclopedia.
KFAS remains committed to the advancement of Science and Technology and overall development, not only in the nation but also the region.
33 Funded Research Areas
34 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Biological Sciences (BS)
Engineering Sciences and Technology (ES)
Medical Sciences (MS)
Natural Sciences (NS)
Social Sciences and Humanities (SS)
35 Biological Sciences
Subject Areas Agriculture Animal Sciences Biochemistry Fisheries Plant Sciences Veterinary Science
COMPLETED 9 ONGOING 12 NEW 11 RESEARCH THRUST ON ECOLOGICAL SUSTAINABILITY & CONSERVATION
Researchers at Kuwait University successfully completed a marine project by ascertaining some nesting grounds of turtle species on Kuwaiti shores, the hatching periods and recommended protective measures for their safety. Head-start experiments on hatchlings and genetic studies using mtDNA proved useful tools in identifying haplotypes of sub-populations lingering on select sites in Kuwait. Another study utilized RAPD and ISSR-PCR techniques and produced distinctive DNA fingerprints, showing marked differences between Kuwait and Iranian pomfrets. Experimentation with hybridization methods using specific fish breeds prompted favorable culture results. Researchers at Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research succeeded in identifying the means to enhance the immune responses of local fish as well as the growth of live food by investigating the disease-inhibitory effects of isolated probiotics and recommended its application to marine cultured fish in the State of Kuwait. Spawning of fish was successfully achieved through newly established experimental facilities at KISR. The second cruise continued to survey the Gulf for demersal species during the year. Bacterial isolates of fish samples as well as DNA extraction were undertaken to detect Vibriosis. In a move to promote improved management strategies and sustainability of fisheries in the State, research resorted to advanced molecular techniques to enhance aquaculture production technology. Extensive project work also led to greater understanding of herbal fish feed additive for shrimp growth.
As part of the greenery drive in the State, novel experimental techniques to introduce new genus of plants for the purpose of landscape beautification showed promising signs, particularly under hot and arid climatic conditions. For the first time in Kuwait, rare plant viruses were detected, while, on the other hand, experiments undertaken to enhance the production of organic vegetables with best fertilizer combinations, refined protocols and improved irrigation regimes initiated favorable yields. Preliminary yields of commercial agricultural products at the greenhouse using Closed Insulated Pallet System also provided encouraging results. Researchers also screened and evaluated varieties of water plants for their growth parameters. Morphological studies continued to examine select plant species under various treatments, including the drought stress experiment. Development of an efficient water-use system for indigenous date palm was the focus of a new study this year. Investigators also proposed to evaluate the newly introduced bag culture technique in agriculture. Molecular studies on salt-tolerant plants provided valuable gene constructs, thus setting a fine basis for future studies and sustainable agricultural system in semi-arid regions.
During the year, cross-sectional dietary and medical history of several residents from all the governorates was brought to record and systematically scrutinized. An ongoing research reported on testing the efficacy of processed foods within the State of Kuwait. An investigation was also launched, probing the dioxin content in the food consumed by the Kuwaiti population.
In poultry research, experiment on Hyline strains achieved optimum production, quality and immune responses. Production of safe poultry products with probiotics also featured among the major scientific initiatives during the year. Efforts were underway to investigate a modified composting system for introduction in the future within the State of Kuwait. The core of some newly-funded studies related to the assessment of potential goat breeds in the country as well as the biodiversity of zoobenthos in the sub-tidal zone for the purpose of generating baseline information on them.
37 The Biology of Marine Turtles and their Environment in the State of Kuwait - Phase 2 (1999-1207-02)
S. Al-Mohanna and P. George Kuwait University
Abstract This study identified four species of sea turtles in the territorial waters of Kuwait: the green turtle (Chelonia mydas), the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) and the leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea). Chelonia mydas was the most abundant species, followed by Eretmochelys imbricata. Adult females of only these two species nested annually along the shores of Kuwait. One of the three major nesting sites was located along the mainland shores at Ras Al-Zour. The remaining two sites were the beaches on the islands, Umm Al-Maradim and Qaruh. Efforts to conserve these endangered species were undertaken in the form of (a) locating and protecting major nesting sites, (b) rescuing and releasing operations, after a period of rehabilitation, of entrapped animals, and (c) rearing hatchlings in captivity to a size that would protect them from high rates of natural predation. Genetic studies were also carried out to understand their diversity in relation to existing sea turtles around the globe. Eleven new haplotypes were discovered for the first time worldwide and registered in GenBank at Maryland, USA.
Project Description The aim of the project was to conserve sea turtles in reserve tanks at the Scientific Centre for a period which are one of the most valuable and rare marine of rehabilitation and tagged before being released. reptiles inhabiting Kuwait’s marine environment. During the study, 8 sea turtles were rescued, 7 of The four species of sea turtles which roam which were green turtles (4 juveniles and 3 adults) the territorial waters of Kuwait are: green turtle and 1 adult loggerhead. These were later released (Chelonia mydas), hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys at Qaruh Island. imbricata), loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) and leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea). All these four species are protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
Nesting Sites and Nesting Populations: Although sea turtles live most of their lives in the ocean, adult females must return to land to lay their eggs. Adult females of two sea turtle species, Chelonia mydas and Eretmochelys imbricata nested annually along the shores of Kuwait. The three major nesting sites were (a) mainland shore Fig.1. Project team and volunteers from Kuwait at Ras Al-Zour (b) beaches on Umm Al-Maradim Diving Team monitoring the nests during the Island (c) beaches on Qaruh Island. Nesting nesting season. season of hawksbill turtles commenced around the middle of April, while the green turtles started nesting around the third week of May. The mean size of a green turtle nest was 2.5m in diameter and 0.7m in depth. They occurred on the beaches of Umm Al-Maradim and Qaruh Islands. The mean size of a hawksbill nest was 1.2m in diameter and 0.4mm in depth. They were detected at all the three major nesting sites.
Rescue and Release of Entrapped Animals: Rescue and release operations of entrapped sea turtles were carried out by joint efforts of volunteers from agencies such as Kuwait Diving Team and Fig. 2. Rescue operation of sea turtle trapped at the Kuwait Scientific Center and the general public. The Power Plant at Shuaibah Area by members of entrapped turtles were rescued and maintained Kuwait Diving Team.
38 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Acknowledgements
We gratefully acknowledge the funding by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). We thank volunteers from Kuwait Diving Team and Kuwait Scientific Centre for providing invaluable field assistance.
References
Al-Mohanna, S.Y., and Meakins, R.H. (1998), Study of the Biology of Marine Turtles and Their Environment in Kuwait with some notes on Fig. 3. Turtle release and public awareness their comparative morphology, KFAS, 201pp, campaign. 26 plates and appendices, 1998. Rearing of Hatchlings in Captivity: Head-starting Al-Mohanna, S.Y., and R. H. Meakins, 2000. Recent technique was used to grow the newly emerged Records of Marine Turtles (Chelonia mydas, hatchlings of green hawksbill turtles in captivity Caretta caretta and Eretmochelys imbricata) in to a size that would protect them from high rates Kuwait. Zoology Mid. East., 20: 33-36. of natural predation. The hatchlings were given floating pellets of turtle food (King British, England) Al-Mohanna, S.Y. and R.H. Meakins 2000. First for the first two weeks. They did not feed on them Record of Leatherback, Dermochelys coriacea during the first week but started to approach in the Northern Part of Arabian Gulf. Zoology and feed on the pellets during the second week. Mid. East., 21: 27-29. However, the diet was thereafter changed to Al-Mohanna, S. Y., P. George, 2006, Status of include fresh lettuce and shellfish meat. These Sea Turtles in Kuwait. Marine Conservation types of diet were chopped into small pieces and Forum, EWS-WWF, Abu-Dahabi, UAE, 11-14 given on alternative days. The amount of diet September, 2006. given was weighed previously to equal 5% of the hatchling weight. Morphometric measurement and (http://assets.panda.org/downloads/marine_ weight for each hatchling was taken and recorded turtles_kuwait___dr__salim_al___mohanna. every 30 days. ppt). Meakins, Robin H., and S. Y. Al-Mohanna., Genetic Studies: Mitochondrial DNA technique Preliminary Observation on Marine Turtles in was used to investigate and determine the genetic Kuwait, The Regional Conference on Marine structure and composition of three species of sea Environment of the Gulf.13-15 December 1998, turtles (Chelonia mydas, Eretmochelys imbricata Doha, Qatar. and Caretta caretta). Five different types of samples were used for DNA extraction, namely, muscle, Meakins, R.H., S.Y. Al-Mohanna, 2000. Sea skin and liver, in addition to blood and eggs. Out Turtles of Kuwait After the Gulf War. Mar. Turtle of the 11 new haplotypes that were identified, five Newsletter, 88: 7-8. belonged to C. mydas, five to E. imbricata and Meakins, Robin H. and S. Y. Al-Mohanna, one to C. caretta. All the new haplotypes were Some Problems and Importance of Reptile registered in GenBank at Maryland, USA. Biodiversity in the Arid Regions. The International Conference on the Conservation Conclusions and Recommendations of Biodiversity in the Arid Regions, 27-29 March 2001, Kuwait. It is evident that four species of sea turtles occur in the Kuwaiti territorial waters and two of them nest Meakins R.H., S.Y. Al-Mohanna, 2001.Some annually on her shores. Efforts to conserve these Problems and Importance of Reptile Biodiversity endangered animals have been initiated and need in Kuwait. J. Arid Environments, Vol. 54, No.1: to be continued. Also, efforts at regional level are 209 – 217. called for, as these animals migrate long distances. Meakins, R., S. Al-Mohanna, 2002, The Importance Management strategies recommended are: of the Conservation of the Southern Islands of Kuwait. Proceeding of International Conference • Increase scientific knowledge on these animals, on Coastal Zone Management & Development in particular mtDNA lineage. (M. Al-Sarawi & E. Al-Obaid,eds.). 18-20 March • Protection of nesting sites. 2002, Kuwait, pp 97-109. • Public awareness. • Safe nursing ground for hatchlings. The Endangered Species Act of 1973. http://www. • Safe feeding grounds for juveniles and adult. fws.gov/endangered/esa.html • Safe breeding grounds for adults.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 39 Development of Salt-Tolerant Plants - Phase II: Characterization and Analysis of Salt-Induced Genes of Mangrove Plants (2002-1207-05)
M. Saleem, Y. Al-Shayji, F. Georges, F. Al-Salameen, S. Al-Amad, D. Al-Baijan and H. Al-Hashash Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The State of Kuwait lies in the hot arid region of the Arabian Peninsula. In view of the characteristic arid climatic conditions, i.e., sandy, salty soils, and saline water, the agricultural and greenery activities in Kuwait are highly restricted and costly. The current agriculture system is a liability for the national economy; a substantial amount of petro-revenue is used for agricultural subsidies and/or for importation of agro- products. A cost-effective and sustainable agro-industry is a national need. The only way to achieve this national goal is to eliminate or at least minimize salinity, the major deterrent to agro-production. Classical breeding techniques and physical soil-management tactics have proved inadequate. However, genetic engineering strategies are more promising than the breeding and/or reconditioning of cultivated areas. It is envisaged that the brackish water and the harsh climate, characteristic of arid regions, could become an asset, rather than a deterrent for agriculture, if the techniques of genetic engineering and tissue culture are applied to develop a brackish-water-based agriculture system. One of the ways to develop such a system is to genetically design plants that are tolerant to salinity. A pre-requisite for genetically designing salt-tolerant crops is to elucidate the molecular basis of salt tolerance through identification and characterization of salt-induced genes in a model system. Avicennia marina, a naturally salt-tolerant mangrove plant was used to explore and identify the potential salt-tolerance specifying genes enabling this plant to grow productively under extreme saline conditions.
Project Description In plants, a number of key physiological functions in A. marina. These cDNAs were characterized are highly sensitive to salinity, their disruption by BLAST search for homology comparisons leads to drastic disturbances in ionic homeostasis, and phylogenetic relationships. Among the antioxidant defenses as well as in-water and salt-induced cDNAs, two cDNAs showed high osmotic balance. Therefore, salt tolerance is homology with copper-zinc superoxide dismutase considered as a capability that enables the (Cu-Zn SOD) and salt overly sensitive (SOS1) plants to maintain and actively enhance the genes. The screening also revealed genes physiological functions disrupted by salinity. Many homologous to phospholipase-C2 (PLC2), plants, especially glycophytes lack the capability vacuolar sodium: hydrogen antiporter and to overcome the system failure under salt stress. aquaporin in leaf and root tissues of A. marina. Full- Halophytes, the naturally salt-tolerant plants have length cDNA, transcripts encoding Cu-Zn SOD, evolved adaptive mechanisms to counteract the SOS1 and PLC2 were isolated, sequenced and salt-induced physiological disturbances. cloned in a plant transformation vector (Figs. 1-2).
The major aim of the current studies was to pBI 121 containing CamV35S promoter-SOD elucidate and understand the nature of the adaptive gene as a BamHI-Xbal fragment mechanisms against salinity. In this regard, the CamV35S NOS-ter SOD NPTII NOS-pro current study (phase II) generated very valuable GUS LB Ter RB and crucial knowledge related to the molecular management of salinity in a halophyte, A. marina. Complementary DNA (cDNA) libraries were prepared from leaf and root tissues of salt- treated mangrove seedlings. The cDNA libraries were screened by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using target gene specific primers. The screening pCamV35S-SOD was on genes related to, or associated with vital cellular functions such as ion homeostasis, antioxidant synthesis, signal transduction and water flux. Five salinity-tolerant candidate cDNAs were Fig. 1. Schematic representation of T-DNA region of identified among the genes regulated by salt stress the Vector pBI121 harboring Cu-Zn SOD gene.
40 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project pBI 121 containing CamV35S promoter-SOS1 Conclusions and Recommendations gene as a BamHI-Xbal fragment Molecular studies performed with Avicennia marina CamV35S NOS-ter GUS SOS1 NPTII NOS-pro revealed that the plant was remarkable in terms LB Ter RB of stress perception and signal transduction that lead to the expression of a number of genes, most notably genes encoding antioxidative enzyme, Na+/H+ antiporters and water channel (aquaporin) proteins. The expression and activation of these genes enable A. marina to avoid sodium toxicity, maintain ionic homeostasis, scavenge ROS and pCamV35S-SOS1 maintain membrane permeability and water flux under saline conditions. In view of these observations, it is suggested to enhance the tolerance level of a salt-sensitive (glycophyte) plant to salinity; it needs to acquire the necessary genetic material (genes) for effective ROS Fig. 2. Schematic representation of T-DNA region of scavenging, maintenance of ionic and water the vector pBI121 harboring SOS1 gene. homeostasis. In the recent past, expression and Complete plant regeneration protocols for over expression of individual single salt-induced cucumber via organogenesis and embryogenesis genes have been tested. However, the first generation of transgenic plants thus produced were developed. Methods to induce in vitro showed limited salt tolerance, a level not suitable flowering and fruiting were optimized. This is the to cope with the salinity levels common in arid first report of in vitro flowering and microcucumber and semi-arid regions. It may be necessary to use production in Cucumis sativus L. (Fig. 3). a multi-gene approach, where a combination of several genes that act in different pathways, e.g., ROS scavenging, ionic and osmotic adaptation may prove more beneficial for improving salt- stress-tolerance.
The phase II studies, in addition to the vital knowledge about salinity management have also provided valuable genetic material (gene constructs) as well as produced a highly trained and competent research team. A third phase is highly recommended to test the genetic material (gene constructs) produced and integrate the knowledge gained from the second phase into a genetic engineering program that could enhance plant production and create a sustainable agricultural system for arid countries, including Kuwait.
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Kuwait Foundation Fig. 3. Individual female flower with normal cucumber. for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) and Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) for An agrobacterium-based transformation system their financial support. for cucumber was optimized and tested with a plasmid (pCam V35 S-SOS1) containing Reference NPTII as selectable and GUS as marker genes. Al-Salameen, F.; M. Saleem; F. Geogres; Y. Al- Transformation was confirmed by observing GUS Shayji, D. Al-Baijan; H. Al-Hashash and S. positive transformants. The plasmids, pCamV35S- Al-Amad. 2008. Genomic of salt-tolerance SOD, pCamV35S-SOS1 and pCamV35S-PLC2 in Avicennia marina: Isolation and cloning of containing antioxidative, sodium:hydrogen antioxidative and sodium antiporter genes. antiporter and signal transduction related genes Proceedings 5th Congress of Scientific Outlook respectively are maintained in the laboratories for in the Arab World. Fez. Morocco. future transgenic studies.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 41 A Comparative Study on Production Efficiency of Four Strains of Brown and White Egg Laying Hens (2003-1207-09)
A. Al-Nasser, M. Mashaly, A. Al-Saffar, F. Khalil, M. Al-Bahouh, and G. Ragheb Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Annual egg consumption in Kuwait is one of the largest in the world (240 eggs/person). The local egg industry covers only 55% of the local consumption and the rest is imported. Therefore, improving production efficiency is essential for producers to reduce their costs and be able to improve profitability and compete with the imported products in both efficiency and quality. This can be done by utilizing strains like the brown egg strains that have high egg production and high quality eggs. Therefore, the major goal of this project was to conduct a comparative study for the production performance of four strains of hens under local conditions and practices. The project included two major experiments. In the first experiment performance of Lohmann brown and white strains was compared. While in the second experiment performance of Hy-Line brown and white strains was compared. Effect of black seed on enhancing immune response of brown and white hens was determined. Major results of the project were as follows: 1) Brown egg strains performed well under Kuwait’s environmental conditions. 2) Brown eggs had less yolk weight than white eggs which could indicate less fat in brown eggs. 3) Both Lohmann and Hy-Line strains produced eggs with good eggshell quality. 4) Lohmann strains produced thicker egg shells than Hy-Line strains. 5) Using black seeds in the diet of brown and white hens enhanced their immune system without any adverse effect on their production performance. 6) Raising brown hens imply raising hens that could draw more income and more return on investment. 7) Promotion of brown eggs is important since most consumers in Kuwait are not familiar with brown eggs.
Project Description The project started in September 2005 with a In addition, brown eggs contained less yolk and duration of thirty months. However, because of the more albumen than white eggs. Even though shell avian flu crisis and the ban that was locally issued weight of white eggs was slightly more than that on importing the needed one-day-old Hy-Line of brown eggs, shell thickness of brown eggs was brown and white pullets, the project extended for slightly more than white eggshell. On the other additional 22 months for a total of fifty-two months. hand, Haugh unit of white eggs was more than In addition, a task titled “Enhancing the Immune that of brown eggs. Response of Brown and White Hens and Studying Results of experiment 2 indicated that Hy-Line the Lipid Profile of their Eggs” was added to the brown strain (0 to 69 weeks of age) consumed project. The project was financially funded by KFAS less feed (37.55 Kg/hen), produced more eggs, and KISR. In addition, the project was undertaken had more egg mass and better feed efficiency in collaboration with Kuwait United Poultry than Hy-Line white. In addition, brown eggs Company (KUPCO). The in-kind contribution of contained less yolk weight than white eggs but KUPCO was received through provision of pullets had similar albumen. Also, shell weight of brown and feed. The project consisted of five tasks: eggs was more than that of white eggs and shell Task 1: Mobilization; Task 2: Experimental Work, thickness of brown eggs was slightly more than Data Collection and Analysis; Task 3: Economic white egg shell. In addition, unlike Lohmann eggs, Impact and Assessment of Marketing Potential Haugh unit of brown Hy-Line eggs was more of Brown Eggs; Task 4: Enhancing the Immune than that of white Hy-Line eggs. Lohmann strains Response of the Brown and White Laying Hens produced more eggs with higher egg weight, less and Studying the Lipid Profile of their Eggs; and shell weight, less albumen weight and thicker egg Task 5: Reporting. shells than Hy-Line strains. These results could imply that Lohmann hens used their energy in Conclusions and Recommendations producing more eggs with higher egg mass. On Major results from the first two experiments are the other hand, Hy-Line hens seemed to use their summarized in Table 1. Results of experiment 1 energy in producing more internal egg quality indicated that Lohmann brown strain (0 to 69 weeks that was reflected in more egg albumen and more of age) consumed more feed (39.66 Kg/hen), Haugh unit than Lohmann eggs. Singh et. al. produced slightly more eggs, with more egg mass (2009) reported that Lohmann brown eggs had and similar feed efficiency to that of Lohmann white. less yolk and more albumen (14.9g yolk and 36.3g
42 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project albumen) than Lohmann white eggs (15.0 g yolk Acknowledgements and 35.5 g albumen). Similar results were found The authors are grateful to Kuwait Foundation for by Silversides et. al. (2006a & b), who reported the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for their that ISA brown hens had higher egg production financial support for the project, the management than ISA white hens. In addition, Anderson (2002) of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) provided detailed information on the differences for their support and interest in this project and to in egg production and quality between different Kuwait United Poultry Company (KUPCO) for their white and brown egg strains. He also found that in-kind contribution and collaboration in this project. the overall average of hen-day egg production for the brown hens was higher than that of white hens. References All previous results indicated that brown hens lay Anderson, K.E. 2002. First cycle report. North more eggs than white hens but the difference Carolina layer performance and management in production varied between different studies. test. Journal name 34:1-35. Good management practices in the poultry farm are extremely important for the production of Silversides, F. G.; T. A. Scott; D. R. Korver; M. Afsharmanesh; and M. Hruby. 2006a. A good poultry products. In addition to following the study on the interaction of xylanase and company Guide for each strain, it is important to phytase enzymes in wheat-based diets fed to give special care and attention to the environmental commercial white and brown egg laying hens. conditions inside the poultry house, the feed and Poult. Sci. 85: 297-305. health care needed for the flock. In our project, Silversides, D. R. Korver; and K.L.Budgell. KISR management practices that were applied 2006b. Effect of Strain of Layers and Age of at the poultry farms, including environmental and Photostimulation on Egg Production, Egg nutritional, were of high standard, which resulted Quality, and Bone Srtength. Poult. Sci. 85: in high performance of the different strains raised 1136-1144. in KISR poultry farm that in some cases exceeded the company expectations. Singh, R., K. M. Cheng, and F. G. Silersides. 2009. Production performance and egg quality of four strains of laying hens kept in conventional cages and floor pens. Poult. Sci. 88: 256-264.
Table 1. Comparison between Production Performance of Four Strains of Laying Hens from 0- 69 Weeks
Parameters Lohmann Brown Lohmann LSL Hy-Line Brown Hy-Line White
Egg Production (%) 90.0a 89.54a 86.77a 84.24b Feed Consumption 39.66 38.83 37.555 38.203 (Kg/bird) Egg Mass (Kg) 19.82 19.50 18.62 17.67 Feed Efficiency 2.001 1.991 2.017 2.162 (Kg feed / Kg egg mass) Egg Weight (g / egg) 65.03a 65.11a 63.9a 62.4a
Shell Weight (g) 7.6a 7.8a 8.5a 7.8b
Shell Thickness (mm) 0.453a 0.450a 0.436a 0.426a
Yolk Weight (g) 16.5a 16.9a 16.4a 16.9a
Albumen Weight (g) 34.7a 33.2a 39.0a 39.3a
HU 69.08a 74.23b 76.7a 75.6a
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 43 Developing and Application of DNA Fingerprinting in Zobaidy (Pampus Argenteus) in the Northern Arabian Gulf (2004-1207-10)
S. AlMomin, M. Al-Hussaini, S. Al-Amad and K. Al-Enezi Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Zobaidy (silver pomfret) is one of the most common fish in Kuwait and the Gulf region. It is a migratory fish that is shared between Kuwait and the other countries in the region, such as the Islamic Republic of Iran. This fish stock, in recent years, has decreased drastically and in order to achieve stock sustainability through proper management, the molecular techniques of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fingerprinting have been applied in this study to detect variations between the fish strains found in the Kuwaiti and Iranian territorial of waters.
The main objective of the study was to identify Zobaidy populations in the region through the use of random amplification of polymorphic DNA with polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) and inter-simple sequence repeat with polymerase chain reaction (ISSR-PCR) techniques. Several primers were used and produced promising results regarding the establishment of banding profiles that can be used to differentiate between Zobaidy strains in the Kuwait and Iranian Zobaidy populations, and were indicative that there could be two different stocks in the region. The use of ISSR-based DNA primers produced consistent, distinctive and strain-specific DNA profiles, while RAPD-PCR produced mostly variable, non-significant results. The molecular techniques proved to be powerful, with a potential for establishing zobaidy strain-specific profiles that can be used to differentiate stocks.
Project Description Zobaidy samples were collected from 13 stations in chloride, 1 mM of primer, 2.5 units of Ultima DNA the waters of Kuwait and Iran’s Khuzestan Province. polymerase enzyme, and 1 mM each of dNTPs. A A total of 20 individuals were collected from each total of 30 cycles was carried out in a Perkin Elmer site per catch. Samples of tissue specimens were thermal cycler PCR. The cycling program was preserved in absolute alcohol or frozen at -80°C. set at 94°C for 1 min (denaturation) x° C for 2 min Homogenization protocols and PCR parameters depending on the annealing temperature of each (i.e., reaction component concentrations and primer (annealing), 72°C for 3 minutes (extension) thermal profiles) were examined and optimized. and a final cycle at 72°C for 7 minutes.
DNA was extracted from 50 mg tissue samples, A set of 28 primers (Yang et al., 2006) and ISSR homogenized with a lysis buffer and treated primers (Sugaya et al, 1995) were used in a with Proteinase K using Wizard® Genomic DNA RAPD and ISSR-PCR. Figure 1 shows examples Purification Kit (Promega, Inc). The DNA was of DNA profiles, produced using Primer No. 9 precipitated using isopropyl alcohol and quantified (TGCTGCAGGT) of the fish samples. using spectrophotometer and checked for quality on 1% agarose gel. M 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
The RAPD-PCR technique was optimized for Zobaidy species by manipulating parameters (i.e., reaction component concentrations and thermal profiles) affecting the reaction, in an effort to reveal the best genomic profile that could be used to differentiate the fish strains. Amplified DNA fragments were electrophoresed in 2.0% agarose gel. The gel was stained with 0.5 mg/ml of ethidium bromide for 20 min. A 100-base-pair DNA ladder was used as a size marker in all of the electrophoresis gels. Lanes 1-3 KL (Kuwaiti liver), Lanes 4-6 IL (Iranian liver), Lanes 7-8 A standard amplification reaction mixture (25 µl) KM (Kuwaiti muscle), Lanes 9-10 KM (Kuwaiti muscle) and Lanes containing 100 ng of DNA extracted from Zobaidy 11-12 PL (Pakistan liver). liver or muscle tissues, 2.0 mM of magnesium Fig. 1. Genomic DNA profiles using of Primer 9.
44 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Conclusions and Recommendations Acknowledgements
In the RAPD-PCR, primer numbers 8 This project is supported jointly by Kuwait (GGAAGCTTGG) and 9 (TGCTGCAGGT), Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences 12 GGGATATCGG), 13 (TGGACCGGTG), 19 (KFAS) and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific (GGACCCAACC) and 28 (GTCCACACGG) Research (KISR). The authors express their revealed potential differences among all of the gratitude and appreciation to KFAS for their strains; however, some variable, non-significant continuous support. results were also produced. References ISSR-based DNA primers were highly sensitive and effective in revealing polymorphism in different Sugaya S., Nowa M., Harada K., Yanagisawa Zobaidy species. Primer numbers 7(GAA)5, 8 T and Marubashi W. 1995. Variation in DNA (GA)8CC and 9(GA)8CT showed promising results Fingerprints Detected in Plants Regenerated with similarity matrices of 0.66, 0.76 and 0.80, from Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana respectively. The results indicated that the Zobaidy Gaertn.) Callus. Breeding Science 45:195-198. population in the northern gulf area could be Yang, W.T., J. Li and G.H. Yue. 2006. Multiplex composed of two different strains. genotyping of novel microsatellite from silver pomfret (Pampus Argenteus) and Our recommendation is to continue similar studies cross-amplification in other pomfret species. on strain authentication using Zobaidy specific Molecular Ecology Notes 6:1073-1075. microsatellite sequences in order to obtain more detailed strain-specific fingerprints.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 45 The Production of Intergeneric Hybrids from Shaem and Sobaity: Comparison of Growth and Survival Performances (2005-1207-01)
T. Abu-Rezq, K. Al-Abdul-Elah, S. El-Dakour and A. Al-Marzouk Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The aim of this research project was to produce two hybrids by manually breeding Shaem and Sobaity, one of which could inherit the positive culturing characteristics from both original parents. The project impemented the following research activities: maintenance, selection and sexing of Shaem and Sobaity breeders; live food maintenance and production; testing the hybridization success, fertilization and egg hatching; larval rearing; growth and survival tests; and fish health management. Results obtained were in favor of producing the two hybrids replacing Shaem but wiht much better growth and culturing characteristics, in addition to opening doors for future research studies on these hybrids.
Project Description The different project objectives were met by and body morphology were documented by conducting several research activities as follows: detailed photography at 28, 39 52, 68, 81, 93 and 100 day after hatching (DAH). Task 1: Maintenance, selection and sexing of Shaem and Sobaity breeders: Selected breeders Task 5: Growth and survival tests: Two experiments produced in Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine were conducted to compare growth and survival Sciences Department (AFMED), Shaem and performances of 5 to 50 g and 50 to 200 g Shaem Sobaity, were used for the hybridization study. and Sobaity fry and their hybrids. The breeders’ feed consisted of fresh or frozen Task 6: Fish health management: This task small fish, vitamin and mineral pre-mixes, natural included two activities: Monitoring of broodstock, pigments, squid meal, marine oil and vitamin E. larvae and fry produced throughout the project Water quality was monitored daily for temperature period to keep the fish in a healthy condition, and and dissolved oxygen, and weekly for pH and treatment of any infections by the use of proper salinity. chemicals, antibiotics and freshwater baths (0 ppt). Task 2: Live food maintenance and production: The rotifer Brachionus plicatilis is widely used Conclusions and Recommendations in aquaculture because it is an important link in the marine food chain for different stages of fish Results indicated that it was possible to spawn and shrimp larvae. The produced rotifers were the broodstock of both Shaem and Sobaity. No fed on Chlorella and Nannochloropsis sp., then significant difference (p>0.05) was observed nutritionally enhanced by treating them with a in the fertilization and hatching rates among the mixture of algae plus enrichment media (DHA four types of fish. Results from the first experiment Protein Selco) for 24 h, and then harvested and (5 to 50 g) indicated that although there was no washed with 20-ppt water for 20 min. prior to being significant difference (p>0.05) in the survival (%) fed to different tested larvae. or in the total amount of the dry feed eaten among the four types of fish, there was significant Task 3: Testing the hybridization success, difference (p<0.05) in the mean weight gain, fertilization and egg hatching: Fish with ova larger specific growth rate (SGR), daily growth rate than 500 microns in diameter were injected with (DGR) and food conversion ratio (FCR). Results the human ovulating hormone. When good quality from the second experiment (50 to 200 g) showed and quantity Sobaity eggs were obtained, they that although there was no significant difference were mixed with sperms collected from 2 or 3 (p>0.05) in the survival (%) or in the FCR, there Shaem males. The same procedures were carried was significant difference (p<0.05) in the mean out for the opposite cross. These eggs were weight gain, SGR, DGR and total amount of the examined to obtain egg fertilization and hatching dry feed eaten among the four types of fish. These rates after 35 h. two results indicated that the highest growth Task 4: Larval rearing: Larvae (30 larvae/l) of performance was Sobaity x Sobaity fish followed Sobaity, Shaem, hybrid I and hybrid II were stocked by the two hybrids, while the lowest performance in twelve fiber glass 1-m3 tanks. Total larval length was Shaem x Shaem fish.
46 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project The two hybrids produced look like the Shaem with Acknowledgements the yellow pelvic and anal fins. In general, the results obtained in this project were favorable Sincere thanks are due to Kuwait Foundation for in producing the two hybrids replacing Shaem the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for funding but with much better growth and culturing this project and for Kuwait Institute for Scientific characteristics, in addition to opening doors for Research (KISR) for their support. future research studies on these hybrids. References
Abu-Rezq, T.; K. Al-Abdul-Elah; R. Duremdez; A. A Al-Marzouk; C.M. James; H. Al-Gharabally; and J. Al-Shimmari. 2002. Studies on the effect of using the rotifer, Brachionus plicatilis, treated with different nutritional enrichment media and antibiotics, on the growth and survival of Sobaity, Sparidentex hasta, larvae. B Aquaculture Research 33(2): 117-128. Kraljevic, M.; and J. Dulcic. 1999. Intergeneric hybridization in Sparidae (Pisces: Teleostei) Dentex (Dentex) dentex x Pagrus major and P. major x D. dentex. Journal of Applied C Ichthyology 15: 171-175. Mallet, J. 2005. Hybridization as an invasion of the genome. Journal of Trends in Ecology and Evolution 20: 229-237. D
A: Shaem x Shaem, B: Sobaity x Sobaity, C: Shaem x Sobaity (Hybrid I), D: Sobaity x Shaem (Hybrid II)) Fig. 1. Samples of the fish at 32 weeks.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 47 Experiments on the Culture of Dunaliella Salina for Induction and Extraction of ß-Carotene (2006-1207-01)
T. Abu-Rezq¹, S. Al-Hooti¹ and D. Jacob² Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research¹ and Al-Oula Fish Company²
Abstract The objective of this research project was to develop a procedure to mass culture locally isolated Dunaliella salina, as a step towards enhancing ß-carotene induction, and then testing and adopting a suitable method for ß-carotene extraction. The project followed these research activities: evaluated the optimum growth of locally isolated D. salina under different salinities, temperatures, phosphate concentrations, light intensities and pH regimes; assessed the environmental conditions or stress factors required for ß-carotene induction and synthesis; examined a combined testing of all stress factors for ß-carotene induction and investigated preliminary adopted suitable methods for purified ß-carotene extraction. Results obtained showed that it was possible to maintain, culture, enhance induction and ß-carotene extraction of both D. salina samples (locally isolated and from Australia) at Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) laboratories.
Project Description The project’s different objectives were met by Task 4 evaluated suitable methods for ß-carotene conducting several research activities as follows: extraction. It was decided to choose the Pressurized Fluid Extraction (PFE) method for this Task 1 related to mobilization when D. salina study. The choice of using acetone as solvent has seeds were collected from the stagnant puddles several advantages, easier handling, does not in the waters off Kuwait’s Bubiyan Island. Another cause any contamination in the equipment used seed was collected by the project leader during for PFE. the training visit of Professor Michael Armin Borowitzka, Associate Professor in Marine Conclusions and Recommendations Phycology at Murdoch University in Perth, Australia from August 20-24, 2007. Both samples were sub- The results obtained showed the following: both cultured and the salinity of the media increased by samples (Kuwaiti and Australian) of this algae 20 practical salinity units (psu) every three days preferred high salinity (45 psu) rather than low from an initial 45 to 120 psu. salinity (25 psu) for their growth, high phosphate concentration (30 g/m³/3d) rather than low Task 2 dealt with evaluation of the optimum concentration (7.5 g/m³/3d), temperature at 21- growth rate of locally isolated D. salina under 22°C, and light intensity at 18x10³ lux. The culture different salinities, temperatures, phosphate preferred high pH level, i.e., without CO gas (pH ² concentrations, light intensities and pH regimes. up to 9.18) than with CO gas (pH 6.75 to 7.25), ² During this task, nine experiments to study the high culture media concentrations, i.e. at 100% of daily growth pattern for both D. salina samples AFMED media; opposite relationship was observed were conducted as follows: under different between the temperature and the time required for salinities (25 to 45 psu), phosphate concentrations ß-carotene induction to be initiated regardless of (7.5, 15 and 30 g/m³/3d), temperatures (20, 23, 26, the culture media used. At 30°C and 18x10³ lux, 29 and 32°C), light intensities (10 and 18x10³ lux) both samples tended to change their cell color from and under two pH levels (with and without using green to brown after 24 to 25 d, at 35°C and 18x10³ CO gas). lux, they changed after 17 to 18 d, and at 38.5°C ² they changed after 14 to 15 d. There was further Task 3 consisted of assessment of the reduction in the duration (5 to 6 d) when higher environmental conditions or stress factors light intensity at 55x103 lux and temperature at required for ß-carotene induction. Twenty-one 38.5°C were used. sets of experiments were conducted as follows to study four different culture media concentrations, Results from the UV Visible spectrophotometric (25, 50, 75 and 100% of AFMED’s culture media), analysis showed that the maximum absorbance using CO and without it, high salinities (50 to 250 for both Kuwaiti and Australian samples was ² psu); high temperatures (30, 35, 38.5, 44°C) and between the wave length range of 400 to 500 nm. light intensities (indoor between 18 to 55x10³ lux, The maximum absorbance took place at wave ß and outdoor between 70 to 99x10³ lux). length 452 nm, which is characteristic of -carotene expressed as total carotenoids.
48 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project The second phase of study for D. salina culture is highly recommended to be conducted in 2 m³ outdoor shallow tanks for two years as a forward step in the commercialization line.
Acknowledgements
Sincere thanks are due to the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for funding this project and for the in-kind contribution from Al-Oula Fish Company.
References
Fig. 1. Samples of D. salina (Kuwaiti and Australian) Borowitzka, M.A.; L.J. Borowitzka; and D. Kessly produced for -carotene extraction. 1990. Effect of salinity increase on carotenoids accumulation in the green alga Dunaliella The total carotenoids in the D. salina (Kuwaiti) salina. Journal of Applied Phycology 2: 111- sample extracted was 4.7057 mg/l (36.19 pg/cell). 119. Similarly, the total carotenoids in the D. salina (Australian) sample was 5.0629 mg/l (33.75 pg/ Denery, J.R., K. Dragull, C.S. Tang, and Q.X. cell), which is within the ranges reported by other Li. 2004. Pressurized fluid extraction of researchers. From the total carotenoids contents, carotenoids from Haematococcus pluvialis the High Performance Liquid Chromatography and Dunaliella salina and kavalactones from (HPLC) was also calculated at KISR’s CAL to Piper methysticum. Analytica Chimica Acta express the concentration of ß-carotene in the 501:175 – 181. acetone extracted sample in terms of mg/l.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 49 Effect of Crude Oil on Early Life Stages of Native Fish Species of the State of Kuwait (2006-1207-08)
Q. Karam, M. Beg, A. Al-Khabbaz, K. Abdulilah, S. Dakour and Z. Al-Ballam Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Oil pollution in the marine environment is one of the major concerns in the Arabian Gulf States. Crude oil being a complex mixture of many different organic compounds, exerts a variety of harmful effects on marine organisms and is known to disrupt the embryonic development in fish. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the dose-response relationship between crude oil loading in seawater and its adverse effect on the survival of embryonated fish eggs and larvae. The eggs and larvae of native fish species were exposed to varying concentrations of water–accommodated fraction of Kuwait crude
oil and the LC50 values were determined. The concentration of oil loading and the type of abnormalities in eggs and larvae were determined. The 96h LC50 were 0.083 and 0.48g oil/l seawater for Sobaity and Hamoor larvae, respectively. The LOEC that deformity in larvae initiated at were 0.06 and 0.25g KCO/l seawater for Sobaity and Hamoor larvae, respectively. The generated data provide information on the levels of oil in the sea that can introduce abnormality and mortality in fish eggs and larvae
Project Description The effect of water-accommodated fraction of Kuwait crude oil (WAF of KCO) was examined on egg hatching and larval survival for Sobaity (Sparidentex hasta) and Hamoor (Epinephelus coicoides) by using standard 96h exposure method. Control Control Prior to exposure, WAF was subjected to chemical characterization for benzene, toluene, 1 1 ethylbenzene, xylene (BTEX) and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) compounds. Exposure to WAF caused no effect on the hatching success of Sobaity and Hamoor eggs, whereas the larval stage was found to be sensitive to the toxic action of WAF. The most toxic WAF on larvae was found to be the one prepared at lowest oil loading, i.e., 1-g KCO/l seawater. WAF prepared with increasing oil loading were not found to exert increasing toxic effects, indicating that saturation of water soluble 2 2 compounds was achieved at 1g oil/l seawater loadings, under our experimental conditions and further increase in oil content could not substantially increase partitioning of water soluble compounds
in the aqueous medium. The calculated 96h LC50 were 0.083 and 0.48g oil/l seawater for Sobaity and Hamoor larvae, respectively. 3 3 Three types of deformities were identified in ) ( ) ( larvae exposed to KCO WAF and were compared B A to control larvae that did not exhibit any type of deformity. The deformities are classified by Fig. 1 Sobaity (A) and hamoor (B) fish exhibiting Type-A (lordosis-inward curvature of spine or healthy larvae in control seawater, and three V-shaped), Type-B (kyphosis-hunchback) and deformity types: 1) Lordosis, 2) Kyphosis, Type-C (scoliosis-lateral bending of spine), 3) Scoliosis. see Fig. 1.
50 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project In Sobaity, maximum deformity types were exposed to the same medium were affected recorded at 1.0g oil/l seawater exposure and most of them died by 96-h of exposure. concentration with the majority of type-A deformity, Various types of morphological abnormalities followed by type-B then type-C. In Hamoor, 0.5 and were also recorded in larvae exposed to 0.5- 1.0g oil/l seawater were the KCO loadings which 1.0g KCO/l seawater and LOEC was found to induced maximum occurrences of deformity where be 0.25g KCO/ seawater. Histopathological type-A was followed by type-C, then type-B. For analysis of dead larvae showed damage to morphological deformity, the lowest observable internal organs which might have contributed effect concentration (LOEC) was 0.06g KCO/l to the morphological changes and ultimate seawater for sobaity and 0.25g KCO/l seawater for mortalities. It is recommended to conduct further hamoor larvae, respectively. studies on histopathological changes associated with abnormalities in developing larvae Histopathological examination of exposed sobaity exposed to varying concentrations of petroleum larvae revealed epithelial necrosis along with hydrocarbons. These responses can be used as muscle degradation that demands further detailed bio-indicator of petroleum hydrocarbon pollution histopathological investigations (Fig. 2). in the marine environment and help in regulating oil spill below probable effect levels. A 1 1 Acknowledgements 2 3 The authors are grateful to Prof. Ali Al-Shamlan,
4 Director General of Kuwait Foundation for the B Advancement of Sciences and Dr. Naji Al-Mutairi, Director General of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Fig. 2. (A) Healthy sobaity larvae in control seawater Research for their interest and financial support showing 1) neural tissue, 2) yolk-sac, to this study. 3) muscle fiber, and 4) vertebral column, and (B) 1) Showing disrupted muscle fiber in References sobaity larvae after exposure to KCO WAF. Karam, Q., M. U. Beg, A. Al-Khabbaz, K. Al-Abdul Conclusions and Recommendations Elah, S. Dakour and Z. Al-Ballam (2010). Effect of Crude Oil on Early Life Stages of Native Fish The present study showed that exposure to Species of Kuwait. Kuwait Institute for Scientific water–accommodated fraction of Kuwait crude oil Research, Final Report, EM029C, KISR. produced no adverse effect on hatching of Sobaity and Hamoor embryonated eggs, whereas larvae
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 51 Probiotics: Alternative Methods for Disease Control in Sobaity Larvae Production (2006-1207-12)
A. Al-Marzouk, A. Saheb, T. Abu-Rezq and K. Al-Abdul-Elah Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract High mortality rates during larval and early fry stages of Sobaity Sparidentex hasta are mainly caused by bacterial pathogens (Teng et al., 1999). The use of probiotics for disease control in aquaculture is an area of increasing interest, as the frequent use of antibiotics is causing concern over the possible development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (Vine et al., 2006). Therefore, alternative method such as probiotics is needed to be applied. The overall aim of the research project was to set up a protocol for the isolation and selection of potential probiotic bacteria from some cultured and wild fish based on their in vitro antagonism towards bacterial pathogens, adhesion to intestinal epithelium and production of beneficial compounds. The project also aimed to determine the effect of the selected autochthonous and commercial probiotics on the survival, growth, disease resistance and immune responses of Sobaity larvae and fry and the growth performance of live feed (rotifers). Several autochthonous probiotics were isolated from wild Zobaidy, Hamoor, blue crab, Newaiby and cultured Shaem. By using PCR and 16s rDNA, the ShPB5 was identified as Bacillus subtilis with the ability of producing antibacterial bacteriocin. The autochthonous ShPB5 isolated from Shaem showed significant in vitro antagonism ability against all pathogenic Vibrio spp tested and the commercial L. divergens to most pathogens. They also enhanced the growth performance of live food and survival of Sobaity larvae. The results also showed that dietary administration of ShPB5, L. divergens and mixed probiotics (ShPB5 & L.divergens) increased the larvae survival rate, fry growth rate and led to the enhancement of the immune response as indicated by the pathogen challenge test and increase in immunological parameters (immunoglobulin, lysozyme, phagocytosis and alternative complement). Also, their adhesion ability to the intestinal epithelium was confirmed through immunohistochemistry and adhesion assays.
Project Description Different autochthonous probiotics were isolated challenge by immersion with virulent pathogen and selected from cultured Shaem, wild Zobaidy, V. harveyi was determined for the larvae and by wild grouper, wild Newaiby and blue swimming intraperitoneal injection with V. anguillarum for crab; commercial probiotics were procured from the fry. Adhesion ability of ShBP5, L. divergens the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC). and mixed ShBP5 & L. divergens to the intestinal They are Lactobacillus divergens (ATCC, 35677) epithelium of Sobaity was evaluated through and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (ATCC, 53103). immunohistochemistry test and in vitro adhesion Three in vitro antagonism tests (well-diffusion, test. overlay and filter paper disc overlay) were investigated to evaluate the inhibitory effect of Conclusions and Recommendations the selected probiotics against V. alginolyticus, Autochthonous probiotics isolated from cultured V. anguillarum, V. harveyi, V. parahaemolyticus, shaem was coded as ShPB5, wild Zobaidy V. vulnificus and Streptococcus agalactiae. (4SQI1a and 4SQI1b), blue crab (4SQI12), wild The effect of some selected autochthonous Hamoor (5M99b) and wild Newaiby (5L82a). The probiotics (ShPB5, 4SQIb, 5L82a), and commercial results showed that (Fig. 1) the filter paper disk L. divergens on rotifers growth performance was overlay method was the most appropriate. The evaluated. Also, the effect of ShPB5, L. divergens ShPB5 showed a significant zone of inhibition and mixture of (ShPB5 & L. divergens) on Sobaity against all the pathogenic bacteria. The other larvae survival and fry growth was evaluated. probiotics were unable to inhibit the growth of A dietary administration of ShPB5, L divergens all the pathogenic bacteria. Results point out and mixture of them to Sobaity fry was tested to a significant effect of ShPB5 on rotifers growth determine the effect on growth rate and changes performance compared to 4SQIb, 5L82a and in some immune response activities (lysozyme, L. divergens. Repetitive probiotics addition via immunoglobulin, phagocytosis and alternative rotifers can significantly enhance the rotifers complement). Molecular characterization of ShPB5 growth. The ShPB5 and L. divergens showed was carried out using polymerase chain reaction a significant effect on the larvae survival rate. (PCR) and 16s rDNA gene amplification. Pathogen Also, significant survival rate was obtained from
52 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project combined ShPB5 and L. divergens and single to be applied to other marine cultured fish in Kuwait ShPB5 and L. divergens. Challenge test on and possible commercialization by the interested Sobaity larvae (Fig. 2) showed clear disease countries after standardization of different mixed resistance as indicated by distinctive 85.3% and probiotics in further research project.
58% survival rate for ShBP5 and mixed probiotics, 100 respectively compared to L.divergens (54%) and 90 control (50%). Fry challenged with V. anguillarum 80 that fed with ShPB5 and mixed probiotics showed 70 distinctive 100% survival rate, compared to 60 L.divergens (16.6%) and control (66.6%). Dietary 50 administration of ShBP5 and mixed probiotics Survival% 40 30 enhanced the fry growth rate and lysozyme, 20 phagocytosis and alternative complement activity 10 were increased. The PCR and 16s rDNA identified 0 Sh Ld Mix Con ShPB5 as Bacillus subtilis and confirmed its ability Treatments to produce antibacteria l bacteriocin that can Fig. 2. Survival rate of Sobaity Larvae after challenge compete the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Since with V. harveyi. probiotics are found to be interesting approach as alternative disease control, they are recommended Acknowledgements
Our sincere thanks are due to Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for funding all the capital equipment and operating items.
References
Teng, S.K; C. Al-Zahar; K. Al-Abdul-Elah; and S. AlMatar.1999. Pilot-scale spawning and fry production of Sobaity, Sparidentex hasta in Kuwait. Aquaculture 178:27-41. Vine, N. G., W D Leukes., H. Kaiser., Probiotics in marine larviculture. 2006. FEMS Microbiology Letters. 30: 404-427. Fig. 1. Competitive exclusion of ShPB5 (P) against Vibrio sp (V).
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 53 Introduction of Flowering Trees of the Genus Cassia for the Enhancement of Greenery in Kuwait – Phase 1: Introduction and Evaluation (2006-1207-13)
H. Al-Menaie, O. Al-Ragam, A. Al-Shatti, M. Mathew and N. Suresh Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The genus Cassia, which belongs to the Leguminosae family are well known for their landscaping attributes and drought tolerance. The aim of this project was to introduce Cassia fistula and Cassia nodosa to Kuwait, to evaluate their growth, determine their suitability in greenery projects and assess plant growth requirements. Quality seeds from Egypt and India were used for this purpose. Experiments on seed germination proved that mechanical scarification was the most effective way in breaking physical dormancy. Experiment on rate and span of time for germination in C. nodosa recorded a germination of 81.6% and seed germination started thirteen days after sowing and continued up to 29 days. For C. fistula, germination started nine days after sowing and continued up to 29 days with a germination rate of 85.8%. Soil mixture study comprising of sand: peat-moss: humus revealed that 1:1:1 was the best in producing optimum plant growth. Study on the effect of fertilizer concentration showed that seedling growth was more pronounced with 15:15:15 N: P: K @ 1g/l in both the species. Experiment on the interaction of soil mixtures and fertilizer concentration showed that soil mixture in 1:1:1 ratio with 1g/l of N: P: K was the best compared to other treatments. Results obtained from the preliminary studies were very promising, based on the outcome of which future research and development strategy have been recommended.
Project Description Cassia fistula and Cassia nodosa are well known 72 h duration before sowing. Seeds procured from mainly for their landscaping attributes, tolerance Egypt and India, respectively, was used for the two to drought conditions and low maintenance experiments. requirements (Ghouse et al., 1980). Since these trees are tolerant to hot arid climates and produce H SO scarification at 21°C for 24 h showed ² 4 colorful flowers for a long duration, studies were the highest germination of 25% in C. nodosa conducted to evaluate the suitability of genus whereas in C. fistula HSO scarification at ² 4 Cassia for landscape beautification in Kuwait. This 21°C for 24 h and water soaking at 50°C for project consisted of four operational tasks for the 24 h showed a maximum of 5% germination. duration of 24 months. Data on germination (Experiment No. 2) proved that soaking in water at 21°C for 48 h showed The main objectives of the project were to the highest germination of 18% in C. nodosa. In introduce seeds of C. fistula and C. nodosa to C. fistula soaking in H SO at 50°C for 72 h ² 4 Kuwait, to evaluate their growth, determine the showed the highest germination rate of 84%. suitability of their utilization in greenery projects, Experiment No. 3 was conducted to determine develop cultural practices and technology for the the effect of various concentrations of GA and
production of plantable trees from seeds and to H2SO4 scarification on germination. The highest assess plant growth requirements. germination rate was recorded when the seeds were acid scarified for 45 min (20%) and GA Since hard seededness is an important aspect (500 ppm) treated for 24 h (20%) in C. nodosa. In of seed quality in the case of legume seeds, pre- C. fistula, acid scarification for 45 min yielded 83% sowing treatment of the seeds were deemed germination. Since the above three experiments necessary to make the seed coat permeable did not produce satisfactory results, Experiment (Nalawadi et al, 1977; Ramamoorthy et al., 2005). No. 4 was conducted to determine the effect of A number of experiments were conducted to study mechanical scarification on germination for which the effect of sulphuric acid treatment and water the seeds of both the species were oven-dried soaking on germination of C. nodosa and C. fistula at 30°C for 24 h and then scarified using sand seeds. Experiment No. 1 and 2 included dipping paper. Among the various methods tried, manual in concentrated H SO (36N) or distilled water for scarification was found to be the most effective way ² 4 5 min. followed by rinsing in tap water and then to break seed dormancy in Cassia and recorded dropping in water at 21°C or 50°C for 24, 48 and 100% germination in both the species.
54 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project To determine the rate and span of time for Table 1. Vegetative Parameters in Both germination, a large number of seedlings were Varieties produced using the best germination procedure. Cassia nodosa Cassia fistula C. nodosa seeds recorded a germination T percentage of 81.6, and seed germination started Ht Lvs CCI Ht Lvs CCI thirteen days after sowing and continued up to 29 T1 69.33 308 18.63 41.67 55.67 15.33 days. For C. fistula, seed germination started nine T2 54.33 215 22.87 37.00 46.33 16.00 days after sowing and continued up to 29 days, T3 58.67 289 22.13 29.00 45.67 17.33 and the germination percentage was 85.8. T4 50.33 210 22.85 40.00 48.00 17.67 Three experiments were conducted to assess T5 49.00 300 23.07 36.67 42.33 19.00 plant growth requirements. To determine the effect T6 50.00 236 23.83 29.67 43.00 16.00 of soil mixture, three soil mixtures at 1:1:1, 2:1:1 T7 48.00 221 23.37 41.33 44.00 17.33 and 3:1:1 ratios of sand: peat-moss: humus were T8 52.00 309 21.60 34.67 42.00 16.57 tested. The study revealed that the plants grown in 1:1:1 ratio recorded the maximum plant height and T9 59.67 299 23.37 31.33 50.00 19.23 number of leaves, compared to 2:1:1 and 3:1:1 for Sig *** ** NS *** * NS both the species and there was a highly significant SEM ±1.43 ±29.2 18.63 ±2.14 ±3.34 - difference among the different treatments tried. T-Treatments, Ht-Height (cm), Lvs-Leaves, CCI- Chlorophyll Index
To study the effect of fertilizer concentration, three- Conclusions and Recommendations month old seedlings were transplanted in 14 cm plastic pots filled with a soil mixture at 1:1:1 ratio The experiments conducted under various tasks were effective in developing techniques to break and three fertilization regimes (N:P:K @ 1, 2 and seed dormancy in Cassia nodosa and Cassia 3 g/l) were tested (Fig. 1). Results showed that fistula seeds. Studies conducted to assess the seedling growth response was more pronounced plant growth requirements had shed light on the in N: P: K @ 1g/l in both the species. effect of soil mixture, fertilizer concentration and effect of interaction of soil mixture with fertilizer concentration. The results obtained showed good potential for introduction, indicating the option of using Cassia for greenery enhancement and landscape beautification in Kuwait. However, further studies are needed to assess the performance of Cassia species under open-field conditions during phase II of the project.
Acknowledgements The authors thank KFAS and KISR for their continued interest, encouragement and financial support during the investigation.
Fig. 1. Cassia fistula seedling six MAP. References To study the interaction of 3 soil mixtures (sand: Ghouse, A. K. M., S. Hashmi and A. Jamal. 1980. peat-moss: potting soil at ratios of 1:1:1, 2:1:1 Certain anatomical characteristics of the bark and 3:1:1) with three fertilizer regimes (N: P: K of some ornamental trees suitable for arid @ 1, 2 and 3 g/l), three-month old seedlings zone environment. Annals of Arid Zone 19(4): were transplanted in 14 cm plastic pots filled with 425-426. soil mixture at 1:1:1, 2:1:1 and 3:1:1 ratios and Nalawadi, U. G., R. Bhandary and T. each soil mixture was treated with three different Chandrasekhar. 1977. Germination of Cassia fertilizer concentrations. The rate of growth was fistula (Linn.) seeds. Current Research 4(3):42- recorded on monthly basis (Table 1) and the 43. results showed that soil mixture in 1:1:1 ratio with Ramamoorthy, K., C. Rajendran and S. 1g/l of N: P: K was the best for C. nodosa and Sivasubramanian. 2005. Seed treatment C. fistula. for alleviation of hard seededness in Senna (Cassia angustifolia L.). Advances in Plant Sciences 18(1): 429-430.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 55 Nutrition Program for the State of Kuwait, Phase 1: National Nutrition Survey in the State of Kuwait (2003-1202-02)
S. Al-Hooti¹, S. Zaghloul¹, H. Alomirah¹, S. Al-Zenki¹, H. Al-Mazeedi¹, A. Al-Othman¹, N. Al-Hamad², M. Al-Somaie², E. Al-Shami², A. Aliahia², A. Al-Obaid², N. Al-Jihma², A. Rao², D. Al-Khaldi² Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research¹ and Ministry of Health²
Abstract The survey aimed at identifying nutrition-related health problems. Subjects underwent a detailed nutrition assessment comprised of information on diet, health, behavior, anthropometric and blood pressure measurements and biochemical analysis of blood and urine. The survey was conducted during the period July 2008 to November 2009 at designated health clinics in Al-Asma, Al-Jahra, Al-Farwaniya, Mubarak Al-Kabir, Al-Ahmadi, and Hawalli Governorates. The total number of households that participated in the survey was 604 with1598 participants. The number of participants in the range 0-2 years of age was 107, 3-5 years was 157, 6-9 years was 190, 10-19 years was 398, 20-49 years was 726 and 50 years of age was 380. The response rate of the survey was 35.6% for households and 25.5% for participants.
Project Progress Households were recruited in proportion to of age. Biochemical results including complete population size, which summed up to 82 clusters blood count, iron status, lipid profile, diabetes in the six governorates of Kuwait by selecting 20 mellitus, vitamins A, D, C, RBC folate, serum B12/ households per cluster. In Al-Asma recruitment was folate were entered as delivered from Al-Sabah 17 clusters, Al-Jahra had 9 clusters, Al-Farwaniya Laboratories, along with the trace elements: 16 clusters, Mubarak Al-Kabir 9 clusters, Al-Ahmadi copper, zinc and selenium and urinary iodine. 16 clusters and Hawalli 15 clusters. The families that responded per governorate numbered Dietary assessment was based on three 142, 89, 71, 101, 90, and 111, respectively. All methods of dietary data collection - the 24 hr demographic information and coverage of wheat recall for participants older than 2 years of age, flour and salt fortification was entered into the food frequency questionnaire for participants project’s database. older than 5 years of age, and dietary history of participants younger than 5 years of age. Age- At the designated health clinics during the period specific questionnaire were administered at the July 2008 to November 2009, all anthropometric health clinics including child’s medical history, and body measurements for all participating youth and adult risk factors questionnaires. Data subjects were recorded including height, weight, of 1598 participants have been entered, reviewed waist, hip and head circumferences, blood and edited. Response rate results are presented pressure and Tanita TBF body composition in Table 1. analyzer results for participants more than 7 years Table 1. Response Rate for the National Nutrition Survey of Kuwait by Age and Gender
Age groups Number Selected Number Participated Total (years) M F Total M F Total Response %
0 - 2 242 259 501 47 60 107 21.4%
3 - 5 329 312 641 85 72 157 24.5%
6 - 9 407 343 750 101 89 190 25.3%
10 - 19 816 719 1535 204 194 398 25.9%
20 - 49 1442 1485 2927 322 404 726 24.8%
≥ 50 638 694 1332 168 212 380 28.5%
Total 3874 3812 7686 927 1031 1958 25.5%
56 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Effects of Changing Photoperiods and Water Temperatures on Spawning Season of Sobaity, Sparidentex Hasta (2003-1207-05)
K. Al-Abdul-Elah, S. Al-Ablani, S. El-Dakour, T. Abu-Rezq and A. Al-Marzouk Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The fish in the three experimental treatments were spawned successfully during 2008 and 2009 in direct response to the three simulated photoperiods set forth in the experimental design. The detection and quantification of sex steroids (Testosterone, 11-Ketotestosterone and Estradiol-17ß) was achieved through the application of Enzyme-Linked-Immunosorbent-Assay (ELISA). There were variations in the spawning parameters between the two cycles of 2008 and 2009. The results obtained from cycle 2009 compared with 2008 were as follows: higher viable egg production (85.80 x 106 vs. 37.95 x 106), lower hatching percentage (34.97 vs. 66.95), and lower larval survival percentage (17.0 vs. 35.1), respectively.
Project Progress Off season spawning was successfully achieved Whereas, significant differences were found according to the set photoperiod and water during the spawning cycles of 2009 (P=0.014). temperature cycles in the three experimental The viable eggs % from both the control (78.7) and treatments (Table 1). Viable eggs ratio, ova the advanced (60.5) treatments were significantly diameter, fertilization and hatching percentages of higher than the delayed (33.1) treatment. the spawned eggs were checked. Larval survival after 10 days was used as an indirect measure to The hatching precentage values from the three confirm egg quality. The total viable egg collected experimental treatments during the spawning from the control, delayed and advanced spawning cycles of 2008 were found to be statistically, cycles during 2008 were 14.4 x 106, 15.2 x 106 and significantly different (p=0.002). The highest 8.35 x 106, respectively, compared to 55.6 x 106, hatching percentage was from the control 9.4 x 106 and 20.8 x 106 during 2009. treatment (72.9) followed by the delyed treatment (68.2) and the lowest was the advanced treatment The completion of measuring all the sex hormones (59.8). concentration (testosterone, 11-ketotestosterone, and estradiol-17ß) was made by ELISA kit. The survival percentage values from the experimental treatments during 2008 spawning The viable eggs % values from the experimental cycles were found to have no statistically treatments (Controlled, Delayed and Advanced) significant differences between them (p= 0.69) during spawning cycle 2008 were not significantly and the same was found during 2009 spawning different from each other. cycles (p= 0.083).
Table 1. Dates of the Achieved Spawning Cycles During 2008 and 2009 Treatments 2008 2009
R1 5th February - 29th March 15th February - 27th March Control R2 2nd February - 26th March 5th February - 1st April
R1 13th May - 26th June 26th April - 31st May Delayed R2 13th May - 20th June 27th April - 27th May
R1 15th December(07) - 22nd February(08) 1st December(08) - 23rd January (09) Advanced R2 15th December(07) - 17th February(08) 2nd December(08) - 25th January(09) R= replica
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 57 Survey of Demersal Fish Stocks of the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman (2004-1207-07)
M. Al-Husaini, A. Al-Baz, W. Chen, S. Rajab, T. Dashti, S. Al-Jazzaf, A. Taqui, H. Husain and S. Almatar Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract This cooperative project, to survey demersal fishes in territorial waters of the GCC countries, is supervised and implemented by scientists from the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. The objective of the project, which started in June 2007, is to assess the status of demersal fish stocks in the western Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The first survey cruise started on 6th November 2008 and covered Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Oman, while the second cruise started on 6th October 2009 and will cover all the GCC countries. The biomass for each key species, depth, stratum and country was estimated, and the length-frequency distributions of fish species in the catches and their mean lengths were calculated. The first survey cruise results showed that the highest average density was in the UAE, followed by Bahrain, Qatar and Oman.
Project Progress During the first cruise, 64 stations were sampled UAE and Oman stations. The percentage decrease in territorial waters of Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, and of UAE catches between the 1978 survey data and Oman using a trawl net with a 19-m head rope the November 2008 survey was 86% in the Arabian and 21.6 m foot rope; tow speed and duration Gulf and 97% in the Gulf of Oman. The results of was set at 3 knots and 30 minutes, respectively. the first cruise surveys in the southern countries Fish catches were sorted out to species, weighed, of the Arabian Gulf indicated that density of the measured for length. Biological observations demersal fish species has declined to an alarming were recorded for major species and key species level. The second survey cruise was in progress for each country. The total number of biological during the preparation of this article. samples for the major species was 140, while the number of countries-key species was 570. Total number of fish individual samples measured for length distribution was 12,026.
The average density was highest in the UAE (747.8 kg/km2) followed by Bahrain (728.5 kg/km2), Qatar (582.9 kg/km2), and Oman (282.9 kg/km2). The most abundant key species in the middle and the southern Arabian Gulf were Lethrinus and Argyrops species, while other commercial demersal species such as groupers, sea breams, and red snapper were low in density. Others such as Sphyraena species dominated catches in the Fig. 1. Trawl catch from a station in Qatar waters.
58 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Developing Capability for Detection of Genetically Modified Foods Imported to the State of Kuwait (2006-1202-01)
F. Al-Salameen and M. Saleem Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Genetically modified foods are becoming increasingly prevalent in the global market. However, the presence of GMOs in the Kuwaiti diets is currently ambiguous. Kuwait imports most of its foods both for human and for animal consumption from countries that are famous in GM food production; it is highly likely that GMOs are present in a significant portion of packaged foods sold in Kuwait. Therefore, we need to develop testing capacity of GMOs at KISR that would form the basis of a system capable of providing Kuwaiti people with transparent and accurate information regarding the presence or absence of GMOs in their food supply.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the most sensitive technique to detect transgenic DNA sequences in foods imported to Kuwait. The PCR detection methods are based on the amplification of transgenic target sequences and exploit a set of primer pairs that spans the boundary of two adjacent genetic elements. These elements are present in virtually all genetically modified plants so that screening methods search for these sequences are necessary to identify the presence or absence of these common carrier genes. Establishing a GMO testing is important to verify the genetic status of various items that are imported or purchased for use in manufacturing food products.
Project Progress Task I (mobilization) has been completed. collected and are being analyzed. Standard Orders for the purchase of major equipment such samples (reference samples, positive and as Real Time PCR (RT-PCR) and electrophoresis negative) controls are provided in the kits. system were submitted, bids were received, Studies were conducted to evaluate the efficacy compared and finalized. GMO detection kits, of processing the food item by homogenization molecular reagents, DNA isolation kits and other and by grinding in the presence of liquid nitrogen. consumables have been purchased. Literature It appears that homogenization in electric survey related to DNA isolation and purification homogenizer may not be suitable as heat is from processed and unprocessed food materials generated during the process. Grinding the food has been completed. Work on Task II (sample item in the presence of liquid nitrogen provided collection) is progressing as planned. Samples a fine powdered product that is suitable for intact were collected from main and common foods DNA extraction. The method has added advantage available in Kuwait’s supermarkets. The collected as the processing is conducted at low temperature. food samples were categorized as raw samples Preliminary studies on the isolation of DNA (Task (corn, soybean and wheat) and processed foods III) from various food items by commercially (potato chips, tomato paste, corn flakes, biscuits, available DNA kits have been initiated and are soy milk and standard flour). Seven processed progressing satisfactorily. samples from different brands (Fig. 1) have been
Fig. 1. Food samples collected from the market for GMO analysis.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 59 Application of Detection Technologies for Viral Diseases of Important Plant Crops in the State of Kuwait (2006-1207-03)
E. Al-Ali, H. Al-Hashash, A. Ben Hajji and H. Al-Aqeel Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Viral diseases in plants are widespread in Kuwait and are causing significant economic losses in many crops. Since effective cures for plant viruses are not available, control practices are focusing on detection in planting stock and reducing the transmission. Certification of virus-free plant material is accomplished by many means, most of which are serological ELISA and PCR-based technologies. The aim of this project was to transfer the technology for diagnosis of major viruses that infect ten vegetable crops of major economic importance in Kuwait; they belong to four families: Cucurbitaceae (cucumber, squash, melon, and zucchini), Solanaceae (tomato, potato, pepper and eggplant), Liliaceae (onion) and Leguminosae (bean). ELISA Kits and reagents have been acquired for detection of 25 major viruses for each crop or crop family cited above.
Project Progress Laboratories were equipped with the required IYSV, GarCLV) and two Leguminosae (TSWV and equipment; (ELISA) Kits and reagents have been AMV) viruses. In Liliaceae, Onion, IYSV was the acquired for detection of 2 to 11 major viruses most widespread virus followed by GarCLV, most for each crop or crop family as cited above. The of the collected samples carried single infection incidence and severity of virus symptoms were and very few carried double infections by IYSV quite high in some crops (Fig. 1). A total of 720 and GarCLV, which were reported for the first plant samples (in triplicates, total 2160) were time in Kuwait. In Tomato TSWV was reported collected, and stored at -80°C. ELISA tests were on some samples that indicated the presence of conducted in two stages; first stage: to assess this virus in Kuwait, PMTV was reported in some the occurrence of six Cucurbit and four Tomato potato samples. This constitutes the first report viruses. In Cucurbits, Melon Necrotic Spot Virus of the IYSV, GarCLV, TSWV and PMTV in Kuwait. (MNSV), Watermelon Mosaic Virus (WMV) and Tests were completed to assess the occurrence of Zucchini Yellow Mosaic Virus (ZYMV) were the viruses on the selected vegetable crops. most widespread viruses followed by PRSV, CMV and SqMV. Most of the collected samples carried mixed infections, mainly by MNSV, WMV and ZYMV, which were reported for the first time in Kuwait. In tomato, PepMV was the most common virus, followed by ToMV, TYLCV and CMV.
This constitutes the first report of PepMV in Kuwait. In the second stage, tests were conducted to assess the occurrence of eleven Solanaceae (TSWV, PVY, PVX, PVA, PVS PVM, PLRV, PVV, (A) Pepper (B) Tomato PMTV, PMMoV, ToMV), three Liliaceae (OYDV, Fig. 1. Symptoms of virus diseases.
60 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Optimization and Pilot Scale Organic Greenhouse Vegetable Production (2006-1207-04)
N. Bhat, M. Albaho, M. Suleiman, S. Al-Dosery, B. Thomas, S. Ali, P. George, R. Bellen and M. Al-Zalzaleh Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Realizing the immediate need for introducing innovative farming systems to improve farm productivity and conserve natural resources, this project was initiated in August 2007 to study the technical and economic feasibility of producing organic greenhouse vegetables under Kuwait’s conditions. The main focus of activities during the second year was on evaluating growing substrates and nutrient formulations and application methods, conducting economic feasibility and preliminary environmental impact assessments. Soil-drench applications of Earth Juice products and fish hydrosylates produced better growth and yields in cherry tomato and capsicum than foliar applications of the same formulations and control. Utilizing the best growing substrate and fertilizer combinations, different vegetables are being produced on a semi-commercial scale. The preliminary data suggested that organic production system was equally profitable as the conventional soil-based system.
Project Progress Protected Environment Agriculture (PA) in Kuwait comparable to those in the conventional soil- is highly resource-intensive and is also highly based production system in tomato, capsicum vulnerable to price fluctuations caused by large and cucumber. imports of cheap vegetables. Therefore, there is an immediate need for introducing innovative Three experiments were conducted to evaluate production systems that will improve farm different organic-fertilizer formulations and methods productivity, conserve natural resources and of application for cherry tomato, capsicum and protect local producers from price declines caused cucumber. Soil-drench applications of Earth Juice by market saturation. Certified organic vegetables products and fish hydrosylates produced better are seen by producers in several European growth and yields in cherry tomato and capsicum countries as well as the United States of America than foliar applications of the same formulations (USA) as a hedge against price competitions as and control. The preliminary data suggested that these commodities command premium price organic-production system was equally profitable in the market. Other benefits of organic farming as the conventional soil-based system. Organic include improved product safety and reduced vegetables generally contained less pesticide environmental risks. Therefore, the current residues than the conventional produce and had project was initiated in August 2007 to assess the minimum negative impact on environment. technical and economic feasibility of producing organic greenhouse vegetables under Kuwait’s conditions. The project consists of seven tasks: mobilization of resources and facilities, evaluation of organic growing substrates, evaluation of nutrient formulations and application methods, pilot-scale production of organic greenhouse vegetables, economic feasibility studies, preliminary environment impact assessment and final report writing. Project activities during the second year focused mainly on evaluating growing substrates (Task 2), nutrient formulations and application methods Fig. 1. Overview of the fertilizer study in cherry tomato (Task 3), economic-feasibility studies (Task 5), and (Cv. Sakura). preliminary environmental impact assessment (Task 6). Other activities included further refinement Additional studies are being conducted to of agricultural practice (GAP) protocols for organic ascertain the quality of organic produce and vegetable production. Results clearly suggested conventional produce and assess economic that vermin-compost-based growing substrates feasibility and preliminary environmental impacts were superior to others and were capable of of organic vegetable production under Kuwait’s promoting plant growth and producing yields environment.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 61 Culture of Zobaidy (Pampus argenteus) in the State of Kuwait - Phase 2 (2006-1207-05)
S. Almatar, C. James and A. Hussain Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The silver pomfret, Pampus argenteus, locally known as ‘Zobaidy’ is a highly valued marine food fish. Over the years, the local fish landings have declined and the market price considerably increased. Towards enhancing the Zobaidy fish production in Kuwait, Zobaidy culture studies were undertaken and succeeded in larval rearing and grow-out of the fish based on eggs collected from the wild. The present studies aim at developing a viable technology to provide Zobaidy as an alternative fish species for aquaculture entrepreneurs. Towards fulfilling this, studies have achieved for the first time in obtaining fertilized eggs from cultured broodstocks. The hatchery facility has been improved by setting up a new microalgal production facility for the production of the micro-alga Isochrysis. Nutritional studies were carried out to assess the seasonal variations in the chemical composition of wild Zobaidy to determine the dietary n-3 fatty acid requirement in feed formulation. Closed re-cycled fish culture system has been established for Zobaidy grow-out studies under controlled temperature regimes to develop a commercially viable grow-out culture technology.
Project Progress Toward enhancing the Zobaidy production in be used as a guideline for dietary essential n-3 Kuwait, studies were carried out from 1998-2003. fatty acid requirements for feed formulation for Zobaidy culture Phase-1 period succeeded in this species. A higher content of DHA compared the larval rearing and grow-out culture of this to that of EPA in eggs indicates the higher species, for the first time in the world, by collecting requirement for DHA in broodstock diet of fertilized eggs from spawners collected from the Zobaidy. Grow-out culture studies concentrated wild. Phase-2 of the Zobaidy culture, initiated in on growth studies at different temperature September 2007, investigated on further refining regimes. To facilitate this, a closed re-circulation the hatchery culture techniques, breeding the fish culture system was established in a newly fish under controlled culture conditions as well as constructed hatchery facility. Grow-out studies developing a commercially viable technology for carried out in the re-circulated culture system the grow-out production. under temperature regimes of 25°C and 30°C showed that maintenance of temperature at 25°C Hatchery larval rearing was carried out using is adequate to achieve growth. A growth rate of 0.3 fertilized eggs collected from the wild as well as g/fish/d obtained at 25°C was significantly higher in attempting to breed the cultured broodstocks. (P<0.05) than the growth rate of 0.22 g/fish/d Construction of a new microalgal production facility obtained at 30°C at the end of the experiment. in the hatchery was completed and production Domesticated broodstock development and of Isochrysis required for Zobaidy larval rearing spawning achieved full embryonic development was initiated. Nutritional studies were carried out and hatching of larvae from natural spawning of to assess the seasonal variations in the chemical cultured Zobaidy broodstock for the first time, composition of wild Zobaidy. The presence of high indicating the possibility of obtaining fertilized eggs proportions of n-3 PUFA especially EPA and DHA through natural spawning of cultured broodstock in gonads, particularly in eggs of Zobaidy indicate (Fig. 1). Further studies are required to improve their requirement for these fatty acids which may the spawning of cultured broodstocks.
Fig. 1. Hatched out larvae from natural spawning of cultured Zobaidy.
62 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Testing of Closed Production Systems for Controlled Environment Agriculture: Sub-irrigation System for Protected Cultivation - Phase 2 (2006-1207-09)
M. Albaho, N. Bhat, B. Thomas and D. Gholam Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The current soil-based cultivation system is not water-use efficient due to over-irrigation, soil type and high evapotranspiration rates in this region. Thus, more efficient techniques are needed to conserve precious water in Kuwait. Soil-less culture may be an alternative to soil-based cultivation for production of major vegetables in protected agriculture. The Closed Insulated Pallet System (CIPS), a soil-less technique that is based on a continuous sub-irrigation capillary system, is under evaluation. The main objective of this study was to refine the CIPS technique for possible commercialization in protected agriculture. Refinement aspects of the system addressed in this project include fertilizer sources and their solubility and root pouch size. Results showed that certain fertilizers are better suited for CIPS than others evaluated in this study.
Project Progress The study is being conducted in polycarbonate- cucumber plant in the control (soil-based method) covered greenhouses, having an evaporative was significantly higher than all fertilizer treatments cooling system with ambient temperatures ranging in CIPS. Water-use efficiency (WUE) of CIPS from 17°C to 30°C (night and day), to refine this treatment ranged between 87.9 g to 176.5 g fruit environmentally safe plant production technique produced per litre water consumed. The WUE of for large-scale adaptation of closed production the control was 46.1 g/l. system in protected agriculture. The fertilizers used in this study include standard fertilizer- Nitrophoska Blau in normal size growth media root pouch; standard– 15-15-15 in normal size; slow release–Osmocote Exact (5-6 mo. release) in normal size; slow release–Osmocote Exact (10 -12 mo. release) in normal size; standard -Nitrophoska Blau in large size; standard– 15-15-15 in large size; slow release–Osmocote Exact (5-6 mo. release) in large size or slow release–Osmocote Exact (10 -12 mo. release) in large size, and the soil used as control treatment.
The vegetative growth represented by plant heights, number of leaves, chlorophyll indices and total number of fruit per plant and weights of marketable fruits (yield) per cucumber plant were greater when fertilized with the standard Nitrophoska and NPK 15-15-15 than any of the Fig. 1. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus var. Arabella) slow release fertilizers. Total water consumed per grown in CIPS.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 63 Standardization of Propagation Techniques of Selected Indigenous Plants and Evaluation of their Performance under Urban Conditions (2006-1207-11)
M. Suleiman, M. Abdal, N. Bhat, S. Zaman, S. Jacob, R.R. Thomas, S. Al-Dossery, L. Al-Mulla, R. Bellen and G. D’Cruz Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Native flora is a major constituent of the desert ecosystem. Utilizing native plants in the urban landscape promotes their sustainability and conserves natural diversity in that region. Accordingly, eight aesthetically appealing native plants (Farsetia aegyptia, Gynandriris sisyrinchium, Horwoodia dicksoniae, Lycium shawii, Nitraria retusa, Ochradenus baccatus, Peganum harmala and Rhanterium epapposum) were selected and assessed in this project to standardize their propagation techniques and landscape use suitability. Several propagation experiments were conducted during the course of execution. Vegetative propagation task was repeated twice to ensure rooting success. Different rooting enhancers were used on selected species. Hundred percent cuttings of Lycium shawii treated with 1000 ppm IBA, ormone radicante in polvere (Rigenal P) with 0.5g NAA and Hormex (IBA) resulted in rooting. In Nitraria retusa the maximum rooting percentage (26.66%) was obtained in cuttings treated with 1000 ppm IBA. Selected plants are being evaluated in the field for drought resistance and use in local landscape.
Project Progress Many native plants have the potential for use in rate in height and canopy was highest in plants phyto-remediation and ornamental landscaping. irrigated with 100% of daily water requirements Conservation and propagation of native plant and in Ochradenus baccatus growth rate in height genotypes is necessary for rehabilitation and and canopy was highest in plants with 100% and restoration of Kuwait’s desert ecosystem. In an 50% of daily water requirement respectively. For attempt to explore the possibilities of vegetative Nitraria retusa growth rate in average plant height propagation, the cuttings of Lycium shawii, and canopy was highest in plants irrigated with Nitraria retusa and Farsetia aegyptia were treated 75% and 100% of their daily water requirement with different concentrations of indole butyric acid respectively. For Gynandriris sisyrinchium plants (IBA), naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) or gibberellic irrigated with 100% of daily water requirement
acid (GA3). resulted in maximum growth rate in average plant height and 75% irrigation for plant canopy. Although previous studies failed in rooting Lycium shawii, this study resulted in 100% rooting success. Evaluation of plant performance in the field This was accomplished by using a treatment was initiated and hundred percent survival was of 1000 ppm IBA, ormone radicante in polvere recorded in all the selected species. Highest (Rigenal P) with 0.5g NAA and Hormex (IBA). In growth rate in height was recorded in Horwoodia Nitraria retusa, maximum rooting percentage dicksonia. Highest growth rate in plant canopy (26.66%) was obtained in cuttings treated with was recorded in Gynandriris sisyrinchium. 1000 ppm IBA. In contrast, only 13.33% of rooting was obtained in cuttings of Farsetia aegyptia that were treated with 400 ppm NAA.
Hardened seedlings of selected species were transplanted in KISR waterfront site to undergo field evaluation and irrigation studies. Plants were irrigated with treated effluent water at three irrigation levels (100%, 75% and 50% irrigation). For Horwoodia dicksoniae, Farsetia aegyptia and Lycium shawii, growth rate in both height Fig. 1. Rooting in Lycium shawii Nitraria retusa. and canopy was highest in plants irrigated with 50%, 75% and 100% of daily water requirements Future plans include continuation of irrigation study respectively. In Rhanterium epapposum growth and evaluation of plant performance in the field.
64 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Evaluation of Water Plants for Greenery Development in the State of Kuwait, Phase 1: Introduction and Evaluation (2007-1207-01)
H. Al-Menaie, N. Bhat, O. Al-Ragam, M. Al-Zalzaleh, A. Al-Shatti, M. Mathew and N. Suresh Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Water gardens are becoming one of the most popular features in landscaping projects, mainly for their aesthetic quality. Introducing water plants to Kuwait will help in enhancing the aesthetic value and diversify the existing vegetation pallet without depending on fertile soils. Hence, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) initiated this project in December 2008 to screen and evaluate water plant varieties suitable for the landscape architecture of Kuwait. During the first year of the project, 15 water lily varieties introduced from China and one variety of cattail were evaluated under Kuwait’s environmental conditions to assess their growth performance and the observations are being recorded.
Project Progress Water plants are a vital component of a clean and various plant characteristics, such as color healthy water garden since they provide color, and size of the flowers from Shanghai Xinhai texture and life in the garden. Although many Cultivation of Flowers Co., Ltd. To assess the plants are available for use in water gardens, growth performance of water plant varieties, fifteen modern aquatic gardening places more emphasis different varieties of water lily and one variety of on water lilies. The preliminary studies on water cattail were studied in completely randomized plants conducted by KISR have established good design. Three replicates of each variety were prospects for growing water plants in Kuwait and tested. The planting materials were placed in hence initiated this project in December 2008 to one-gallon plastic containers filled with a growing screen and evaluate water plant varieties suitable medium comprising of sand: sphagnum peat for the landscape architecture of Kuwait. Since moss in 2:1 (v/v), and the pots were kept in pond the project requires selection and procurement of compartments filled with freshwater. Currently, the quality plants suitable for Kuwait’s environmental plants are being established in the pond and the conditions, the project team conducted a scientific studies initiated during the first year of the project mission to China during mobilization task. During will be continued until the end of the project. Data the mission, the project team surveyed various on stem length, number of leaves, leaf width and international organizations, nurseries and growers number of flowers are being recorded to assess of water plants in China and procured superior the growth of the most suitable water plant variety quality water plants after scientific appraisal of under Kuwait’s conditions.
Fig 1. Nymphaea tetragona Mexicana flower produced at UDG site, Salmiya.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 65 Conocarpus Lancifolius under Semi-Arid Conditions in the State of Kuwait: Ecophysiological, Biochemical and Cytological Studies (2007-1207-07)
R. Al-Hasan, M. Afzal, P. Suleman, A. Redha, and N. Al-Mansor Kuwait University
Abstract The species, Conocarpus lancifolius, was introduced in Kuwait in the1990’s. Morphological, anatomical and ultrastructural studies were conducted to determine the seasonal changes in plant growth, leaf morphology and structure, types of trichomes, secretory structures using light and electron microscopy. Conocarpus growth studies were carried out under variable stress parameters such as temperature, salinity, drought and polyethylene glycol (PEG) treatments. In addition the biochemical analysis of the plant pigments, phenolic compounds and sugars were also carried out. ¹³C/¹²C ratio for Conocarpus plant determined it as a C3-plant. Cytogenetic preliminary studies showed that the chromosome number of the plant is 2n=24. The ecological role of C. lancifolius with respect to herbivory is also being monitored.
Project Progress Examination of the plants in the field showed 10°C - 40°C and it was found that antioxidant two morphotypes: one with larger dark green defenses of the plant show a resistance to leaves and the other with grayish green leaves. temperature increase. Rather the antioxidant Phenotypic variations appeared to be induced defense (ascorbic acid) of the plant is strengthened by the environment. Leaves are amphistomatous with an increase in growth temperature. This is (both leaf surfaces have stomata) with relatively the what is observed about the plant growth during same number of stomata on both adaxial (upper) summer season in Kuwait. Temperature stress and abaxial (lower) surfaces. Stomata arrangement also increases phenol content (antioxidant) of the is irregular with no subsidiary cells. Leaves develop plant. Increase in temperature (40°C) increased two types of trichomes and extrafloral nectaries on leaf fluorescence, photosynthesis and shoot both sides of the distal end of the petiole and 3-4 growth of C. lancifolius. pairs at leaf apex. Mature leaves have very few These results indicate that Conocarpus being a C3 trichomes but develop two secretory ducts for the plant, is well adapted to elevated temperatures with production of polysaccharides, polyphenols and very efficient photosynthetic apparatus, leading cutin and cuticular waxes (Fig. 1). to a higher production of biomass and quicker Salinity, PEG and drought stress showed a sharp plant growth that parallels to C4 plants. These deterioration in ascorbic acid content showing results will be further augmented when we have a steep decline in antioxidant defenses of the analyzed the individual photoprotective pigments plant. Temperature stress was measured between like carotenoids and flavonoids by HPLC.
Fig. 1. Scanning electron micrograph of the surface of the leaf showing embedded stomata and a non-glandular trichome.
66 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Evaluation and Adaptation of Molecular Method for Fast Detection of Vibrio in Seafood (2007-1207-09)
S. Al-Mouqati, A. Ismail, D. Al-Bijan, A. Bin Haji Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The project started in October 2008 and work continued on all its five tasks. The objectives of this project include refining and adapting PCR-based detection methods for Vibriosis and to determine the incidence of Vibrio contamination in local and imported seafood samples. Optimization of the methods of DNA extraction and PCR amplification for specific detection of Vibrio in fish/shellfish samples is used to accomplish the objectives. Bacterial isolate have been cultured and DNA extractions have been done to proceed to the PCR optimization testing. Sample for DNA extraction are derived from the surface swab, kidney and muscle tissue. All the data have been collected and tabulated and analyzed. In task four, where enzyme restriction analysis is being attempted, the optimization is in progress to reach at definite conclusions for the samples collected from the important fish markets in the State of Kuwait.
Project Progress During the first stage of the project, the equipment from three fish markets in Kuwait (Sharq, Al- (Applied Biosystems Veriti 96-well Thermal Cycler) Mubarkiya and Fahaheel). The samplings were and lab supplies, such as, chemicals and kits were obtained from different fish and shellfish species purchased; discussions and meetings were held (Hamour, Nagroor, Subiaity, Zobaidy, Shaem and with the team members to explain the role of each Shrimp) with the details on the source or origin of task leader. Kuwaiti professionals and technicians the sample (Kuwaiti, Saudi, Irani and Pakistani). were trained on the technology of DNA extraction Various bacterial isolates have been cultured and PCR optimization of fish/shellfish. Quarterly and DNA extraction has been done. The quality field samplings were taken, starting from January of extraction was evaluated (nanodrop spectro- 2008 (78 samples), April 2009 (36 samples) and photometer) before proceeding to the PCR July (33 samples) with a total of 147 samples optimization. The work of this project is ongoing.
Figure. 1. Muscle extract and the kidney sampling for the isolation of bacteria.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 67 Composting Poultry Waste (2006-1207-10)
S. Al-Ghawas Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Increasing size and concentration of production in poultry industry has inevitably resulted in higher occurrence of bird mortality at the farm. Poultry producers use several traditional methods to dispose off the dead birds. These methods are not always economical and their effects on the biotic and abiotic natural resources can be catastrophic. The disposal of the dead birds will not only add to the incurred cost but can also pose biological and environmental problems. Large numbers of dead poultry can be composted on the farm to avoid the cost of transport and tipping fees, reduce the potential spreading of pathogenic diseases, and prevent potential groundwater pollution due to burial practices.
Composting is the biological decomposition of organic materials. Decomposition occurs naturally. However, in the composting process natural decomposition is accelerated and improved by human intervention. An understanding of the process can lead to better products and fewer problems.
This applied research is of thirty-month duration. The technology to be utilized is based on a modified bin composting system that has been in practice for many years in USA. The system is simple to operate but requires continuous monitoring and corrections to ensure efficient composting. There are a number of scientific research elements that require investigation to ascertain their actual performance and their impact on the composting process and its product. They include topics on optimum mixing ratio of waste ingredients: frequency of turning, use of acidifying agent and bio-filter. Specific steps that further reduce pathogenic risks will be given high attention since the waste materials being composted usually contains disease-causing agents. Field operated instrument will be used and calibrated with laboratory analyses and used in the determination of compost stability and maturity indexes. They are expected to be more relevant to client needs for future composting of generated poultry waste. In addition, economic evaluation on the feasibility of applying the suggested technology will be conducted. This can form the basis for pricing the generated composted materials.
Determination of the Levels of Dioxins and Dioxin-Like Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Foodstuffs Marketed in the State of Kuwait: A Preliminary Study (2007-1202-01)
A. Husain and B. Gevao Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans (Dioxins) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are widely recognized environmental and food contaminants. Food has been generally recognized as the main source of human exposure to dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). More than 90% of the total daily intake of these contaminants are generally from food. The 1999 Belgian incident of dioxin contamination, particularly chicken and eggs raised a public alarm. Subsequently, this contamination event launched or accelerated the pace of national studies into the dioxins content in foods and the intake of dioxins via food chain in different countries.
At present no data are available on the levels of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in foods consumed by the Kuwaiti population; however, methodologies for detecting these contaminants are being developed. In view of the carcinogenicity of some dioxins, and the fact that over 90% of foodstuffs in Kuwait are being imported from different countries, it is important to investigate the levels of these contaminants in food commodities marketed in the state of Kuwait. Data obtained concerning dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs levels in foodstuffs consumed by the Kuwaiti population will set the pace for expanded investigations and risk assessment studies in order protect of the health of the population.
68 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project Irrigation Studies in Date Palm (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) (2007-1207-02)
N. Bhat, M. Suleiman and H. Al-Menaie Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Date palm is one of the few crops that are well adapted to the harsh arid climate and saline irrigation water. Due to of this potential and the availability of superior quality tissue-cultured plant materials, date palm cultivation has picked up very rapidly in Kuwait. Like in other fruit crops, irrigation and fertilizer management are very important in date palm cultivation. Hitherto, these aspects have not received the required attention; as a result, current irrigation practices are inefficient, not based on scientific principles and hence, threaten sustainable development of agriculture sector in the country. With very limited rain and groundwater depletion rates far greater than the annual recharging capacity, the demands for the limited water supplies have grown rapidly. The sustainable use of available water resources, which is a national priority, would, therefore, require the adoption of modern irrigation management practices that would conserve natural resources and prove environment-friendly and economically viable.
This project has been proposed with a view to determine crop co-efficients and actual water requirements of three tissue-cultured date palm varieties under Kuwait’s environmental conditions, compare irrigation systems, irrigation regimes and water quality and ascertain the effects of hydrophilic polymer and mulches for improving the water-use efficiency in date palms. The project will be implemented in three phases and the first phase will have six tasks, namely, mobilization of research supplies and facilities; estimation of water requirements for date palm; comparison of irrigation systems and irrigation regimes for date palms; effects hydrophilic polymer and mulch on water-use efficiency in date palm; response of date palm to saline irrigation water and data analysis. Major project output includes, reliable water requirements and standardized ET estimation procedure for developing an efficient irrigation scheduling in date palm, efficient irrigation systems, irrigation regimes and water conservation measures that would ensure maximum water productivity, enhancement of yield and fruit quality and minimize deterioration of soil properties.
Biological & Ecological Investigation of National Marine Fisheries in Kuwait Marine Environment - Phase 1: Species Identification, Distribution and Seasonality Using Genomic DNA Techniques (2007-1207-06)
A. Al-Zaidan, S. Al-Mohanna, J. AI-Rubaiaan and A. Al-Zaidan Kuwait University
Abstract The nutritional value of marine finfish has drawn people towards incorporating more fish protein into their diet. This, in addition to the increase in global population, has raised the demands for the fish stock, leading to its noticeable decline. However, such decline in fish stock, whether for regional or global scale, is not only a result of over-exploitation of this protein source to meet the high demands but is an outcome of the interlink between overfishing/exploitation, climate change and pollution and their effects on the fisheries habitat. Such factors affect the fisheries directly (reproductive dysfunction, endocrine disruption, hormonal disturbances, migration, mortality) or indirectly (destruction of habitats by altering its non- biological or biological components). Unfortunately, in this region, there is insufficient scientific research regarding such matters, and though the local authorities have imposed closing seasons in order to allow some prime fisheries to mature as a method for overcoming exploitation, they failed to take into account the impact of habitat destruction, climate change and pollution on the fisheries population. According to the FAQ, the lack of accurate species verification stands as an obstacle in assessing the state of fisheries in the Indian Ocean (Area 51, including Kuwait) and this inevitably affects management strategies by the policy-makers. The identification of fish species and the factors that affect the population structure of local commercial fish species is extremely vital for the structuring of an indisputable management
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 69 strategy that can be dependable for sustainability of the local finfish stock. In this study we aim to launch the baseline information required for the foundation and establishment of a proper management strategy by assessing the state of fisheries in Kuwait. We anticipate that the outcome of this project will broaden the scope of local scientist and officials in generating innovative scientific ideas that will contribute towards the advancement of fisheries sciences.
Evaluation and Demonstration of Growbag Technique for Protected Cultivation (2007-1207-08)
M. Albaho, N. Bhat, H. Abo-Rizq and D. Ali Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The difficulty and cost of controlling soil-borne diseases, soil salinity, and lack of fertile soil and good quality water shortages, among others, have contributed to development of soil-less production techniques. Growbag technique is a simple form of soil-less culture system. The growbag system enabled growers to get better fruit, fewer disease problems and earlier fruit setting in many vegetable crops, and they (growers) no longer have to worry about diseases and problems associated with soil-based crop production. An important advantage of the growbag technique is that the grower uses the bag directly without the cost of labor for filling a container with the growing medium. As current conventional production systems are highly inefficient in terms of water-use, bag culture technique is inherently water- use efficient, and therefore, its adoption by the agricultural community in Kuwait would contribute to the national water economizing plans. The objectives of this study are to evaluate different substrates in the growbag culture for productivity and quality of produce and determine water requirements of various crops. Substrate materials to be tested in the present study include: (1) perlite, 100% (2) Perlite, 50%:peatmoss, 50% (3) peatmoss, 35%:perlite, 40%:vermicompost, 25% (4) peatmoss, 25%:perlite, 25%: vermicompost, 25%: cocopeat, 25% (5) cocopeat, 100% and the control system. Objectives will be achieved through four major tasks, mobilization, evaluation of growbag substrates and open containerized system, measurement of water-use efficiency, economic assessment and reporting.
Isolation, Characterization and Evaluation of Lactic Acid Bacteria for the Development of Poultry Probiotics - Phase 1 (2007-1207-10)
M. Balba, A. Yateem and S. Al-Zenki Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The increase in health awareness and discovery of mad cow shifted meat consumption towards poultry meat at the expense of red meat. However, poultry is a recognized reservoir of enteric pathogens such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. Coli, etc. The current practice of using antibiotics had limited success in controlling the outbreak of these diseases. The excessive and indiscriminate use of antibiotics is also of great public concern because it can lead to development of resistant bacterial strains and accumulation of harmful residue in poultry products. Therefore, cost-effective alternatives to reduce or substitute antibiotics in poultry production are urgently required.
Preparations of certain gut microorganisms "probiotics" have shown to provide protection against infection with pathogenic bacteria through the competitive exclusion mechanism. In addition to improving food safety, probiotics have also claimed to enhance the profitability through increased poultry productivity and reduced mortality rates. The main objective of this project is to isolate lactic acid probiotic bacteria for utilization as an alternative to the antibiotics in poultry production and to enhance profitability and improve food safety for poultry products.
70 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project Effect of Herbal Feed Additive on Growth and Survival of Penaeus Semisulcatus in Full Production Cycle (2008-1207-01)
L. Al-Musallam and A. Al-Ameeri Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Recently, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research succeeded to determine the best feed for P. semisulcatus. Based on the results obtained from the previous project, two types of feed were suitable for P. semisulcatus, the P. japonicus feed and the P. monodon feed. Both feeds gave good growth performance but P. japonicus feed was better due to its high protein content but it is more expensive than P. monodon feed. In order to improve the efficiency of the P. japonicus feed, feed additive could be used. Recently, aquaculturists have shown interest in developing technologies to induce shrimp growth by feeding supplementary diet incorporated with natural feed additives as growth promoters. Thus, this project aims to improve growth performance and survival of P. semisulcatus by feeding (P. japonicus) feed supplemented with herbal feed additives. The specific objectives in this proposed project includes evaluation of commercial herbal feed additive toward enhancing shrimp growth, survival and body composition by using commercially available herbal feed additive. Successful implementation of the project could assist in developing of commercial shrimp farming venture in Kuwait.
Evaluation of Immune Response and Determination of Optimum Age of Sobaity Larvae for Immunoprophylactic Health Management (2008-1207-02)
A. Saheb and A. Al-Marzouk Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Sobaity (Sparidentex hasta Valenciennes), is one of the most valued seafoods of Kuwait. Hatchery production technology for the larvae of Sobaity has been standardized. However, survival of the larvae during and after the nursery phases is the major concern in the consolidation of the aquaculture technology package for the commercial production of the species. Vaccination is the best disease management strategy and fish vaccination is gaining importance with an aim of reducing disease-related losses during the aquaculture production period. Selection of vaccination at right age/stage of development has been known to produce the best vaccination efficiency. Hence, information on the structural and functional maturity of the immune system in Sobaity has to be generated for the development of effective vaccination strategies against potential pathogens of this species and thereby helping to develop a complete Sobaity aquaculture production technology package. The project objectives include investigating the developmental sequences of lymphoid organs in the larval stages of Sobaity, studying the responsiveness of immune system and determining the optimum age in Sobaity larvae for effective immunoprophylaxis. The tasks of immune maturity will be accomplished through histology and the immune responsiveness through immunization, antigen detection using antibody-based methods and molecular techniques. The project results will provide the baseline information for the development of vaccination strategies against potential pathogens of Sobaity.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 71 The Evaluation of Local and Imported Goat Breeds Under Kuwait's Environment: Phase 1 (2008-1207-03)
S. Abbas Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The current livestock population in Kuwait only contributes a small proportion of the total requirements for meat and milk. As a result, a major bulk of meat, milk and dairy products are imported from abroad. Red meat produced locally can meet about 6.6% of the total local demand. Dairy milk produced locally meets only 22% of the total demand of the country. In recent years, there has been much focus on the value of goats as livestock for improving their products i.e. meat and milk.
This is a two-phase project and the objectives are to: evaluate the performance of local and imported goat breeds under Kuwait’s environmental conditions, generate baseline data on local and imported goats to recommend for on-farm improvement programs and draw suggestions for further research and development programs. The present phase (phase-I) will involve evaluation of local and imported goat breeds, their nutrition, breeding, growth, health and carcass composition. Milk yield and composition will also be investigated. The duration of this first phase of the project will be 30 months. The project in phase I includes five tasks: 1.) Mobilization and preparation of work, 2.) Nutrition, 3.) Breeding, 4.) Goat Health and Disease, 5.) Reporting.
The main output will include data on evaluation of local and imported goats under the Kuwait’s environmental conditions, selection of potential goat breeds in phase I and genetic characterization for production of meat and milk in phase II studies. Recommendations will be made for on-farm improvement for further work on nutrition. The expected benefits are selection of goat breeds which can be utilized for alternate sources of meat and milk production under Kuwait’s environment.
Zoobenthos Community Structure of Kuwait Bay: A Pilot Study (2008-1207-09)
K. Al-Rifaie and F. Al-Yamani Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Information on the biodiversity of zoobenthos of the subtidal zone in Kuwait's marine environment is lacking. This project will describe the community structure (biodiversity) and the abundance of the zoobenthos organisms in the subtidal zone at different stations in Kuwait Bay. The generated data from this project will serve as basis in the development of a pioneering database of zoobenthos for Kuwait. The work plan of this project includes six technical tasks: mobilization, sample collection and CTD measurements, sample processing and sorting, species identification, enumeration and Guide production, establishment of zoobenthos database and data analysis and reporting.
72 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project Investigation on Some Aspects of the Biology and Ecology of the Endemic Ocypode Crab Leptochryseus Kuwaitense in Intertidal Mudflats of the State of Kuwait (2009-1207-02)
A. Bebehani Kuwait University
Abstract The Ocypode crab Leptochryseus Kuwaitense is identified as endemic to the State of Kuwait. Despite the ecological significance of this crab, which was described for the first time in 1983, the available information about its biology and ecology is scarce. Also the distribution of the crab is very restricted to the upper intertidal zone; hence the damages caused to its habitat by landfill activities make the species vulnerable. Therefore, the present proposed three-year project aims towards investigating some of the crab's biological and ecological characteristics. The proposed project is based on fieldwork as well as laboratory experiments and studies. It is expected that the results of this study would add to our present understanding of the distribution, behavior, abundance, reproduction and some anatomical features of this crab. The information gained will enhance our knowledge and should prove to be instrumental in assessing the importance of this crab in the biodiversity of the coastal marine habitat of Kuwait. The project also aims towards suggesting means for the protection of this endemic species.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 73 Engineering Sciences and Technology
Subject Areas Architecture and Planning Chemical Engineering Civil Engineering Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering Environmental Engineering Industrial Engineering Meterial Science and Metallurgy Mechanical Engineering Petroleum Engineering Water Resources
COMPLETED 10 ONGOING 10 NEW 11 OPTIMAL RESEARCH METHODOLOGY FOR ENGINEERING CRUCIAL CHANGES
Scientists from KISR reviewed, analyzed and conducted qualitative assessment of data on major industrial and urban wastewater sources in the country and successfully set up a unified wastewater database for future references by researchers and policy-makers in the region. Another research project on an industrial scale hydrocracker pilot plant concluded with the development of kinetic models and the implementation of linear model predictive control for the evaluation of non-linear model predictive control strategies. Extensive laboratory studies at KISR led to the successful identification of the best biological process for reduction of nitrogen and phosphorous from reject wastewater. Research work is ongoing with the SIMBA software, for calibrating a model, which will be used to survey the performance of the Riqqa sludge system.
Electrochemical Noise techniques, established at the Petroleum Research and Studies Center (KISR), was successfully utilized to detect, evaluate, analyze and monitor the different stages of carbon steel corrosion in aquifer water as well as its best inhibitor.
The introduction of bio-film reactor technology for the treatment of landfill leachate (Rotating Biological Contactor) at Qurain successfully demonstrated the feasibility of the system in significantly reducing toxic pollutants from leachate landfills. Survey of potential radiation-transmitting zones in Kuwait confirmed that the twenty-six areas under investigation were within the safety levels recommended by international standards. The potential of a conceptual lean production model for waste reduction was being assessed on 116 Kuwaiti manufacturing companies. Waste collection and disposal trends were also surveyed by a project, which focused on a strategic action plan and development of a model for solid waste management.
The testing of a new isomerization catalyst with industrial feedstock ensured good performance and, hence, was expected to have beneficial implications on the local petroleum refining industry. Another study established the best testing methodology for hydro-treating catalyst utilized in the refining industry. Studies also demonstrated oil recovery rates of partially fractured reservoirs at different intensities and gas-condensate flow rates. A study that attempted to recover metals from spent catalysts found that organic acids were more effective than inorganic acids for metal extraction. A physical model was fabricated and experimental investigations continued to explore the optimum burial depth of submarine pipelines in Kuwait.
Diverse experimentations examining the conditions for improved classifier performance, with diverse strategies/parameters, concluded during the fiscal year, recording the final outcomes of the work undertaken.
A novel computer software was developed using advanced hardware facilities at Al Noor Laboratory and Press, to enhance as well as support the learning processes of blind students. One of the projects, reviewing optical pre-emption system for accomplishing more effective traffic management system in the country, continued to work on set goals. Researchers also conducted simulation runs on a computer model which were directed towards accomplishing optimal network re-design options.
Investigators installed the Condenser Pre-cooling Systems at two local sites and attempted at working out a conceptual design of a pilot scale lab system.
Newly funded studies focused on diverse subjects that included national e-commerce, synthetic aggregate production, computer application for dyslexics, radiation levels at the borders, gamma irradiation, water-rise problem, groundwater reserve, RO treated water, dairy wastewater and hybrid energy system.
75 Development of a Wastewater Quality Database and Assessment of Effluent Quality for Potential Re-use in the State of Kuwait (2004-1505-02)
A. Shahalam, A. Al-Haddad, A. Abusam, S. Al-Shammari, H. Al-Nasser and H. Safar Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Presently, Kuwait applies centralized treatment of collected wastewater from tertiary (200,000 m3/d) to advanced (350,000 m3/d) levels. Present re-use of treated effluent is mainly in irrigation sector. The main aims of the study were to collect wastewater quality data on physical, chemical and biological properties of untreated and treated streams in Kuwait and prepare a Wastewater Quality Database for reference. Supplementing available data, new data were collected through an extensive program of stream sampling and laboratory analysis. It covered industrial and urban sources of wastewater. The new sources included 48 urban and 44 industrial streams. The prepared database was restored at Sulaibiya wastewater research plant of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR). A review of Treated Wastewater Effluent (TWE) quality with respect to national and international guidelines for re- use in irrigation indicated that tertiary effluent satisfy the requirement for restricted irrigation. Effluent of advanced treatment at Sulaibiya plant is of superior quality and is even fit for unrestricted irrigation use and storage in underground aquifers. Most of the industrial wastewater streams, it appeared, needed pre- or regular treatment before their disposal into surface water or sewer systems. A critical review of Kuwait’s existing regulations on effluent-water safe disposal or re-use indicated that there are avenues for some revisions and additions with respect to implementation and enforcement. A quality control and assurance program for wastewater data acquisition and management is urgently needed in the country.
Project Description The study mainly involved the collection, analysis, evaluation and interpretation of data on wastewater quality and its possible re-use in Kuwait. The collected data were utilized to prepare a comprehensive wastewater-quality database for referential use. The main sources of available data were wastewater quality records of the Ministry of Public Works (MPW, 2008), Ministry of Planning, Environment Public Authority (EPA), Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ministry of Health, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research and subject-related Fig. 1. Collecting Samples. local, regional and international publications. Main physical parameters included temperature, The available data were complemented with new hydrogen ion activity (pH), salinity, dissolved oxygen data (Fig. 1) acquired through an extensive stream and solids. Main chemical parameters included sampling and laboratory analysis programs chemical oxygen demand, five-day biochemical that included 48 urban and 44 industrial new oxygen demand, alkalinity, acidity, 22 important sources. Samples from urban sources included metal pollutants, oil and grease, phenol, pesticide, households, schools, hospitals/clinics, airport, surfactant and total organic carbon. Main biological storm-water, farms, agricultural wastewater, four parameters included total coliform, fecal coliform, main wastewater treatment plants, treated-effluent salmonella, coli phase, helminthes eggs and storage place, etc. as well as principal industries enteric virus. The prepared database also included in the country dealing with detergent, meat information on wastewater treatment cost, sampling processing, bakery, soft drinks, dairy, slaughtering program and national, regional and international house, cannery, laundry, paper, photo-film, textile, guidelines for wastewater re-use. In addition to local pesticide, cement-lime, glass, fertilizer, oil-refinery Kuwait regulations, the main international guidelines etc.. Data quality included physical, chemical and and regulations were from the Food and Agricultural biological properties. Organization (UN), World Health Organization
76 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project (WHO, 2008), Jordan, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, control and assessment scheme is urgently Australia, Japan, United States Environmental needed for data management and laboratory Protection Agency (USEPA, 2004), Italy and testing in Kuwait. Canada. Conclusions and Recommendations Collected municipal and industrial wastewater quality data were illustrated in summary graphs The study has identified major wastewater and tables. The wastewater treatment plant streams and their quality in Kuwait. It produced a data showed more or less steady performance unified wastewater database for reference use in through last seven years. Table 1 depicts average wastewater research and management sectors in values of major quality parameters (1999-2008). Kuwait. Data processing and evaluation resulted Minimum treatment of wastewater provided in in several recommendations on other potential Kuwait is up to tertiary level. Overall effluent quality wastewater re-uses in addition to agricultural use, from treatment up to tertiary level satisfies the suggestions on wastewater quality control and EPA effluent standards (EPA, 2001) and many assurance schemes and possible revisions of international standards (WHO, 2008). However the wastewater re-use guidelines in Kuwait. effluent from advanced treatment satisfies many ground aquifer recharge criteria on quality and Acknowledgements it was recommended that the potential of such Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) storage in Kuwait should be seriously considered. gratefully acknowledges the partial funding of the Most of the industrial wastewater streams (44), project by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement it appeared, needed pre- or regular treatment to of Sciences (KFAS). satisfy the KEPA requirements for discharging them into surface water body or municipal sewer References systems. MPW, 2008. Wastewater Treatment Plant Database, A critical review of the existing guidelines from the Kuwait. EPA and MPW indicated that there are areas where some revisions would improve their application USEPA, 2004. Guidelines for Water Re-use. and implementation. Among them is the selection U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, of parameters for day-to-day surveillance, based UDAID, Washington, DC. Publication No. on irrigation importance and easy-to-analyze EPA/625/R-04/108, September. aspects. The flexibility in implementation scheme WHO, 2008. Health Guidelines for the use of needs to be defined. Wastewater in agriculture. 15, August.
The review of multiple sources of data and their http://www.who.int/health.inf/boddaly/en/ similarity and repetition indicated that data quality index.htlm Table 1. Average Quality of Treatment Plants and DMC Effluents in 2005 Data Um Monitoring Test Unit Jahra Riqqa Sulaibiya Al-Haiman Center (DMC), MPW
pH -- 7.5 7.1 6.6 7.0 7.0 Conductivity µS/cm 1751.4 -- 1030.0 -- 198.1 Turbidity mg/l 13.4 ------5.5 TSS mg/l 5.8 4.7 4.2 0.0 0.6 TVS mg/l -- 287.5 360.2 -- VSS mg/l -- 12.6 1.9 0.0 0.6 TDS mg/l 1070.7 -- 547.1 22.8 118.7 COD mg/l 24.0 13.8 12.4 -- 2.4
BOD5 mg/l 14.1 2.0 3.4 0.0 4.4
NH3-N mg/l 6.3 0.1 0.3 0.2 0.7
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 77 Nonlinear Predictive Control and Applications for an Industrial-Scale Pilot Plant (2004-1506-01)
M. Juraidan, H. Lababidi, D. Chehadeh, A. Al-Qattan and E. Al-Abboudi Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The main objective of this project is to implement linear model predictive control (LMPC) for the evaluation of nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) strategies. A hydrocracker pilot plant resembling an actual conversion unit in local refineries was selected for this purpose. A number of difficulties were encountered thereby resulting in the delay of the execution of the proposed project schedule and in altering its initial plan. However, the overall objective of the project was met with the development of kinetic models and the commissioning of a LMPC controller for the investigation of NMPC strategies.
Project Description An industrial-scale hydrocracker pilot plant was selected for the implementation of LMPC and 2 the evaluation of NMPC. The activities performed throughout the project covered the experimental 1.5 runs conducted on the hydrocracker pilot plant, 1 the resulting kinetic models, the step test, the First Step Up identified dynamic models, and the commissioned Second Step Up LMPC for NMPC investigation. 0.5 Identified Model A number of experimental runs were conducted on 0 the hydrocracker pilot plant. Results of the catalytic 0 50 100 150 experimental runs provided consistent and clear -0.5 conclusion that increasing the reaction severity Step Duration (min) enhanced the extent of cracking and increased the yield of lighter components. In addition, it was Fig. 1. Effect of stepping skin temperature (06TC110) observed that the catalyst deactivation was not on bed temperature (06TC104) on the 4th significant during the experimental runs. heating zone of the reactor @ temperature 380 and LHSV 1.5. Three kinetic modeling approaches have been investigated: discrete lumping, Stangeland’s Conclusions and Recommendations method and continuous lumping approach. The project concluded with the development of The three kinetic modeling methods have been both discrete and continuous lumping kinetics implemented and programmed using MATLAB models and the implementation of an LMPC and gPROMS. controller for NMPC investigation. Several Results were obtained using the data from the difficulties were encountered throughout the experimental runs. These results have been project. Based on the outcome of the project and presented at the “Conference and Exhibition on the encountered difficulties, following were some Catalysis in the GCC Countries” held in Kuwait of the recommendations: on Dec. 11, 2006. Another presentation on • Upgrade the process history database in kinetic modeling using gPROMS titled, “Modeling order not to jeopardize data collection. of Hydroconversion Processes” was given at gPROMS annual meeting between 15-17 April, • Enhance pilot plant operation to maximize 2008 in London, England. benefit from automation. The LMPC was successfully commissioned on the Acknowledgements hydrocracker pilot plant. Based on the step test, the process was identified and the models were The authors acknowledge the financial support built and then implemented through Honeywell’s of Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Profit controller. The identified models were Sciences (KFAS) and the technical support and suitable illustration of the process and actual experimental data provided by the pilot-plant performance as can be seen in Fig.1. personnel at KISR’s Petroleum Research and Studies Center (PRSC).
78 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project References Al-Juraidan, M; H. Lababidi; D. Chehadeh; A. Al- Qattan; and E. Al-Abboudi. 2007. Nonlinear Al-Juraidan, M. 2005. Nonlinear predictive control Predictive Control and Application for an and application for an industrial-scale pilot Industrial-Scale Pilot Plant, Kuwait Institute for plant. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Scientific Research, Report No. KISR 8746, Report No. KISR 7171, Kuwait. Kuwait. Al-Juraidan, M.; H. Lababidi; D. Chehadeh; and A. Chehadeh, D.; M. H., Mulla Juma; R. Marouf and Al-Qattan. 2005. Nonlinear model predictive M. Al-Juraidan. 2008. Hydrocracking pilot plant control: An overview. Kuwait Institute for Scientific – U06: process description, control system and Research, Report No. KISR 7864, Kuwait. experimental runs. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Al-Juraidan, M; H. Lababidi; D. Chehadeh; A. Al- Research, Report No. KISR KISR 9114, Kuwait. Qattan; and M. H. Mulla Juma. 2006. Nonlinear Lababidi, H., M. Juraidan, D. Chehadeh, A. predictive control and application for an industrial- Al Qattan. 2006. Kinetic modeling of VGO scale pilot plant. Kuwait Institute for Scientific hydrocracking process, Conference and Research, Report No. KISR 8229, Kuwait. Exhibition on Catalysis in GCC Countries, Al-Juraidan, M; H. Lababidi; D. Chehadeh; A. Al- Kuwait. Qattan; and M. H. Mulla Juma 2006. Nonlinear Lababidi, H., M. Juraidan, D. Chehadeh, and A. predictive control and application for an industrial- Al Qattan. 2008. Modeling of hydroconversion scale pilot plant. Kuwait Institute for Scientific processes. gPROMS Annual Meeting, London, Research, Report No. KISR 8455, Kuwait. England.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 79 Treatment of Landfill Leachate by Rotating Biological Contactor (2005-1501-01)
S. Al-Muzaini, A. Al-Shereedah, T. Al-Obeid, M. Al-Mutairi, N. Al-Omani, J. Qadri and A. Kurian Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The levels of physical and chemical parameters, heavy metals and toxicity of landfill leachate at the Qurain landfill site were high. Rotating Biological Contractor (RBC) pilot plant was recommended to treat the Qurain landfill leachate, as an attempt to reduce the level of pollutants. Results from experiment work indicated greater reduction in the concentration of physical and chemical parameters. Heavy metals were reduced up to 50%; however, the toxicity of treated leachate was high. Based on the results, it was concluded that RBC pilot plant was capable of reducing the pollutants of landfill to the expectable levels. The generated data recommended that a monitoring program should be established to ensure that treated effluents are adequate for discharge to the sewage network.
Project Description Landfill disposal in Kuwait is the most common first, second and third stages of the RBC pilot method for disposing off solid wastes. None of the plant. After 31 days of operation, the system disposal sites are properly managed in accordance became acclimated to the landfill leachate waste. with standard landfill methods. Hagerty et al. (1973) and Bezzar et al. (2002) in their studies indicated that little attention has been given to the landfill leachate generated from landfill and to their potential hazard to the groundwater. Al-Muzaini and Muslmani (1994) suggested that treatment of landfill leachate in Kuwait is essential to reduce the effect of landfill leachate on subsurface water and groundwater quality. Therefore, a biological treatment is the most common method to remove pollutants and nitrogen from landfill leachates, such as the Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC). Fig 1. The first, second, and the third stages of RBC This study introduced RBC as a biofilm reactor Pilot Plant. technology for the treatment of landfill leachate at Qurain landfill site. RBC has the ability to remove non-organic pollutants from the landfill leachate. A comprehensive testing program was implemented to study the RBC pilot plant performances. The work has been carried out to examine the treatment operation, capacity and suitability to Kuwait.
Materials and Methods: To implement the experimental program for the study, intensive sampling collection was made to characterize the Fig 2. The second and the third stages of RBC with influent flow of leachate. drive motor. The RBC pilot plant consisted of primary settlement The RBC biological treatment process was zone where solids settled down and retained. examined by determining the removal of BOD, Partially clarified wastewater flowed upwards into COD, Ammonia-Nitrogen and heavy metals. the first stage of biozone for initial biodegrading by the microorganisms. Then, the leachate Samples were collected and analyzed from wastewater was conveyed into the second stage the influent and effluent twice per week for of biozone to settle out suspended solids, leaving approximately 12 months. All analyses were a clarified, final treated effluent to exit through the performed according to the standard methods for outlet to the holding tank. Figures 1 and 2 show the water and wastewater (APHA, 2003).
80 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project The following table displays the physical and Removal efficiency of BOD and COD were 70% chemical values of Qurain leachate samples. and 80% respectively. The decline in the removal percentage is due to increase in ammonia- Table 1. Range and Average Concentration of nitrogen concentration in the biomass reactor. Physical and Chemical Parameters of The RBC pilot plant showed reduction in the Qurain Leachate Samples concentration of ammonia-nitrogen as a result Parameter Unit RangeAverage of nitrification process. Removal for ammonia- nitrogen was 50%. Heavy metals removal in the RBC pilot plant was not to exceed 50%. A large Temperature 0C 19 - 23 22.5 amount of attached biological mass is shown in the biozone stages and is mostly present in the first pH unit 7.5 – 8.22 7.97 biozone. The study demonstrates the feasibility of using RBC system as a bio-technology for the Conductivity us 23.9 – 26.9 25.30 removal of pollutants from landfill leachate. We would recommend that a pre-treatment or post- Salinity gm/l 12.7 – 14.2 11.52 treatment would be necessary to achieve higher removal. Total Dissolved gm/l 14.60 – 15.85 15.12 Solids (TDS) Acknowledgements Chemical Oxygen mg/l 1883 – 8000 4474 Demand (COD) This work was funded by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) and Kuwait Biological Oxygen Institute for Scientific Research (KISR). The mg/l 34 – 300 152 Demand (BOD) authors are very grateful to KFAS and KISR for their financial support.
Chloride mg/l 1.25 – 3.50 2.24 References
Ammonia-Nitrogen mg/l 50 – 70 60 Al-Muzaini, S., and K. Muslmani. 1994. Study of the environmental pollution and fill sites Potassium mg/l 1500 – 16000 7700 receiving wastes generated during the Iraqi occupation. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Sulfate mg/l 75 – 1250 857 Research, Report No. KISR 4451. APHA. 2003. Standard Methods for the Conclusions and Recommendations examination of water and wastewater, 21st Ed., APHA, Washington, D.C., USA. The results obtained indicated that BOD over a wide range of concentration can be removed Bezzar, A. F. Ghomari, M. A. Allall; and M. Djafour successfully during treatment of leachate in the 2002. Contaminate transport at landfills and RBC pilot plant. The overall BOD removal efficiency modeling of its impact on ground water quality. in RBC reactor ranged from 60% to 70%. The low Environmental and Ground Water Pollution III. removal efficiency was due to the variation in feed Tokyo. A.A. Balkema Publishers, pp. 301-319 composition. Meanwhile, the COD removal ranged Hagerty, D.J., J.L. Pavoni and J.E. Heir. 1973. from 70% to 80%. Solid Waste Management, Van Nostrand The efficiency of the RBC pilot plant in the treatment Reinhold. Environmental Engineering Series, of landfill leachate was tested. Results obtained New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold Company. showed that the RBC pilot plant has the ability to remove and oxidize organic and nitrogen matters.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 81 Measuring Electromagnetic Radiation Levels in the State of Kuwait at High Frequencies between 75MHz to 3GHz (2005-1501-02)
F. Alkoot Public Authority for Applied Education and Training
Abstract The electromagnetic radiation levels from all sources, emitting between 75 MHz and 3000 MHz at a single point in time, was measured. The aim was to confirm if the existing levels conform to the ICNIRP limit. To simulate the conditions, encountered by human beings, the contribution of all sources was probed by measuring the percentage limit of each source of radiation. It was investigated whether the sum of all sources exceeded the ICNIRP limit and which source(s) contributed the most to the sum. The information on potential sources of hazards could lead to recommendations for possible solutions to alleviate the problems. Measurement results of 94 readings in twenty-six areas showed that no single source exceeded the limit; neither did the sum of all sources in the measured band. The highest percentage was due to the FM transmitter in the G1 area that reached 0.00932%, closely followed by the FM transmitter at Liberation Communication Tower area with 0.00917%. The sum of percentages due to all sources at G1 and the Liberation Tower was the highest among all areas, reaching 1.167% and 2.589%, respectively. Both were safely below the international limit.
Project Description The aim of the project was to find the level of the public cannot reasonably be expected to take radiation emitted by all sources emitting at precautions to minimize or avoid exposure. These frequencies between 75MHz to 3GHz. Based on considerations underlie the adoption of more the surveyed literature, it is believed that there stringent exposure restrictions for the public than is a health hazard associated with EMF and RF for the occupationally-exposed population. radiation. Recent research on GSM towers has Health hazard due to high frequency non- shown a wide concern that, in addition to heating, ionized radiation: The IEGMP was setup by the these towers may cause other health disorders. UK government to investigate the health effects However, studies were not able to find and confirm associated with electromagnetic radiation. In May the exact dangerous levels due to the complex 2000 it reported that: “The balance of evidence nature of the problem. Many organizations like to-date suggests that exposures to RF radiation the National Institute of Environmental Health below NRPB and ICNIRP guidelines do not cause Sciences, National Radiation Protection Board, adverse health effects to the general population. Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety There is now scientific evidence however, which Agency, Minister of Public Works and Government suggests that there may be biological effects Services of Canada, U.S. Federal Communications occurring at exposures below these guidelines”. Commission and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) have The BioInitiative Report, issued by a group set limits for each frequency of the RF band. The of scientists, raises more concerns. Besides presenting evidence on possible adverse health limit changes with the change in the frequency. effects, it questions the current standard limits. It is argued that any investigation of RF radiation Following are extracts which state that the current should include the contribution of hazard due limits are inadequate, “The clear consensus of to all sources at the same period of time. The the BioInitiative Working Group members is that contribution of each frequency can be recorded the existing public safety limits are inadequate as a percentage of the limit for that frequency, then for both ELF and RF”. The report goes as far as these percentages are summed to yield the total stating that there may be no lower limit under radiation in percentage of a standard limit. which RF radiation is safe. Until such a lower limit Based on this comparison, it may be concluded is found, it is unwise to deploy new technologies whether the radiation levels in Kuwait pose any that increase ELF and RF exposure. health hazard, and which source is the main SRM-3000 Device Characteristics: The SRM contributor to this sum. consists of a basic unit and a measurement probe. The measured radiation levels was compared to The basic unit contains a spectrum analyzer for the the ICNIRP limit for the general public. The general frequency range 100 kHz to 3 GHz. The tri-axial probe public comprised individuals of all ages and of allows isotropic (non-directional) measurements varying health status, and may include particularly in the range from 75 MHz to 3 GHz, covering FM radio up to the W-CDMA and UMTS services. It susceptible groups or individuals. In many cases, allows selective measurement of the field exposure members of the public were unaware of their produced by individual services and assesses the exposure to EMF. Moreover, individual members of results in accordance with the applicable standards.
82 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Conclusions and Recommendations due to the highest FM channel was approximately 18 mW/m². For the rest of the areas, the highest Total twenty-six areas were investigated, where source of radiation was the GSM900. The area with each area was surveyed several times at different the highest GSM900 radiation was Mansouriya locations. Total ninety-four visits were made to the reaching 11.41 mW/m² at 906.87MHz. Among surveyed areas. During those visits, the radiation the areas where the GSM900 was the strongest, power density and radiation level in percentage the highest total percentage of the ICNIRP limit of ICNIRP international limits were measured. was 0.293294% at Daiya. It can be concluded The radiation percentage of the limit at each that radiation sources at Kuwait were below the measured frequency was monitored individually ICNIRP limit, including the sum of percentages and then added to the percentages to obtain the from all sources. However, repeated monitoring total contribution towards the limit. Measurements of radiation levels is essential, especially if the indicated that the highest radiation was mostly due current international limits are reduced. to the GSM900. Only three areas had the highest source of radiation (FM), namely Morqab, G1 and Acknowledgements Liberation Communication tower. Daiya, Khaitan, Thuaraya complex and Fanar mall had the highest Author gratefully acknowledges KFAS support. source of GSM1800 radiation. References As per the proposed hypothesis, areas with strong David Carpenter and Cindy Sage, (August FM signal included the highest total radiation. 2007), BioInitiative Report: A Rationale for a However, the total was much and safely below Biologically-based Public Exposure Standard the international limit. In general, the highest for Electromagnetic Fields (ELF and RF), total percentage was found at the Liberation http://www.bioinitiative.org Communication Tower, reaching almost 2.6% most of which was due to the FM transmitter. The IEGMP, Mobile phones and health. Report of an next highest percentage was found in the G1 area, Independent Expert Group on Mobile Phones. reaching almost 1.2% which was also largely due Chairman Sir William Chilton. NRPB, www. to the FM source. For both areas, the power density legmo.org.uk. Table 1. Maximum Radiation Sources and Levels, Sum Percentages of ICNIRP Limit by Area Highest freq. Power density Limit at freq. Area % of limit Total % of limit MHz mW/m² W/ m² Shaab 946 1.10 4.7 0.0001002 0.256755 Daiya 1857.21 3.303 9.3 0.0003552 0.293294 Mansouriya 906.87 11.41 4.5 0.0025356 0.144898 Jabriya 953.39 2.712 4.7 0.0005770 0.063189 Surra 954.19 1.623 4.7 0.0003453 0.028195 Bayan 914.5 2.224 4.6 0.0004834 0.114524 Rumaithiya 946.99 3.762 4.7 0.0008004 0.106107 Bo-Hulaifa 937.21 492.1 µW/m² 4.7 0.0001047 - Manqaf 939.99 856.2 µW/m² 4.7 0.0001821 - Fahahil 938.16 1.112 4.7 0.0002366 - Shaab Park 939 719 µW/m² 4.7 0.0001523 0.07712 Marina 943.5 1.448 4.7 0.0003080 0.206727 Thuraya Complex 1831.39 5.903 9.2 0.0006416 - Fanar Mall 1831.37 5.925 9.2 0.0006440 0.069334 Morqab 92.51 7.66 2 0.0038300 0.332011 Comm. Tower 95.67 18.34 2 0.0091700 2.589696 Kuwait University Shuwaikh 943.08 456.7 µW/m² 4.7 0.0000971 0.037565 PAAET - Shuwaikh 2131 1.038 10 0.0001038 0.026113 Sabah Hospital 953.99 682.6 µW/m² 4.7 0.0001452 0.077957 Ibin Sina Hospital 906.14 6.637 4.5 0.0014749 0.062975 Sadri Hospital 954.4 1.387 4.7 0.0002951 0.037242 Omariya 947.03 4.243 4.7 0.0009027 0.292846 Khaitan 1869.26 1.574 9.3 0.0001692 0.030737 Andalus 938.58 1.055 4.7 0.0002245 0.116817 G-1 98.88 18.64 2 0.0093200 1.167461 Riqei 954.37 2.033 4.7 0.0004325 0.137864
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 83 Using Electrochemical Noise Technique in Studying the Corrosion Behavior of Carbon Steel in Oil-Field Waters (2005-1504-01)
H. Al-Mazeedi, N. Tanoli and F. Al-Attar Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract In this project EN technique was successfully established at the Petroleum Research and Studies Center, KISR, to serve the corrosion projects in oil field sector. In water injection plants, aquifer and effluent waters were injected into oil reservoirs to improve oil recovery by increasing pressure in the reservoirs. Since these waters were corrosive, it was very important to use inhibitors in order to reduce the corrosion for the carbon steel (CS) tanks and pipelines. The performance of three different corrosion inhibitors (QCI 807M, QCI 150, QCI 810) used in Minagish oil field aquifer and effluent waters were studied, their critical concentration level was found and efficiency calculated. Due to pitting corrosion, the linear polarization resistance (LPR) technique gave a misleading conclusion about the best concentration of an inhibitor and showed the samples with pitting corrosion as the most inhibited ones. It was concluded that EN technique is more precise in distinguishing the best inhibitor concentration than the LPR technique, thereby matching with the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results in identifying the pitting corrosion.
Project Description Carbon steel API 1016 bullet-shaped samples inhibitor (QCI 150) at different concentrations 20, (each with a length of 1.14 cm and an area of 30, 40, 50, 65 and 70 ppm. The results showed 3.87 cm²) were tested in un-inhibited and inhibited that the best inhibitor concentration that gave aquifer and effluent waters. Corrosion behavior was better inhibition was 65 ppm, since Ecorr. for studied by different electrochemical techniques, this concentration was the most positive over such as EN, open circuit potential (Ecorr.), LPR all the others (Ecorr. moving toward the passive and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy direction); the Rp was the highest which meant (EIS). Surface morphology of the samples was that the corrosion rate was the lowest and it examined by visual observation and SEM/EDS. gave the highest inhibitor efficiency (almost Three different inhibitors (QCI 807M, QCI 150, QCI 70% in average). This was confirmed by visual 810) were tested separately in aquifer and effluent observation for the samples at the end of the waters with different concentrations in order to experiments, in which CS sample surfaces specify the critical concentrations for each. The covered by thick layer of corrosion product at 20, CS samples were tested in inhibited Minagish 30, and 40 ppm of inhibitor, while samples in 50, aquifer water with additions of QCI 807M at 65 and 70 ppm had slight changes in color. But different concentrations (30, 40, 50, and 60 ppm) the EN time record results for 65-ppm inhibited and the pH was controlled at 5 for all the tests. samples indicated that the samples suffered from The results showed that the potential for 30-ppm pitting corrosion that started from the beginning inhibited samples was the noblest, followed by the of the test and grew with time until the end of 40-ppm inhibited sample, while the 50-ppm the test. For the 70-ppm inhibited samples, the inhibited sample was the most active, although the results indicated that they were inhibited and slight uniform corrosion appeared; there was no sign Rp, and inhibition efficiency for these tests were all in same range. This implied that the potential for pitting corrosion during the entire experiment cannot give accurate readings about the corrosion exposure time. SEM micrographs confirmed that 65-ppm inhibited samples was semi-inhibited and rate if the corrosion product contaminated the some areas suffered from pitting corrosion, while electrode surface. By comparing the results the 70-ppm inhibited samples seemed better of inhibited samples by QCI 807M with the inhibited and had some minor uniform corrosion sample without inhibition, it was noticed that the (Figure 1). From both EN and SEM results, it polarization resistance slightly increased and the can be concluded that 70 ppm concentration inhibitor efficiency was on the average 65% up was better than the 65 ppm, since it gave better to first 90 h, then it dropped to 50%. The results protection and there was no pitting corrosion on indicated that the inhibitor QCI 807M, with all its the metal surface, which meant LPR, EIS and different concentrations, lowered the corrosion Ecorr.. techniques gave misleading results on the rate but failed in protecting the CS samples from best inhibitor concentration to be used for CS corrosion in aquifer water as also seen by SEM/ inhibition in aquifer water. For the QCI 810 inhibitor, EDS and EN results, in which all the samples the samples were tested in 20, 30, 50, 65 and suffered from uniform corrosion and localized, in 70 ppm. Samples suffered from pitting corrosion some areas. The CS was tested with the second with inhibitor concentrations of 20 and 30 ppm and
84 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project almost inhibited with 50, 65 and 70 ppm inhibitor Conclusions and Recommendations concentrations since the 50- and 65-ppm 1. Electrochemical noise technique was inhibited samples were shiny, and there was only established successfully. The EN technique can a small area at the end of the sample that had detect and successfully differentiate between changed in color but there was no corrosion. But electrochemical processes (inhibition, pitting 70-ppm samples were covered by a light corrosion and uniform corrosion). The technique can product. The Ecorr., polarization resistance and identify the stages of pitting corrosion for CS inhibitor efficiency results showed that there was in insufficiently inhibited aquifer water. slight corrosion in all the samples and they were not totally inhibited. Their results were almost 2. EN technique is more precise in distinguishing close to each other, especially for 20, 30, 65 and the best inhibitor concentration than the LPR 70ppm, while 50 ppm gave a slight better inhibition, technique and matched with the SEM results in specifying the pitting corrosion. LPR since for this concentration Ecorr.was more positive than others, and the Rp was the highest, leading technique gives misleading conclusions and to the lowest corrosion rate and highest inhibitor shows the samples with pitting corrosion as efficiency (80% in average). Hence, it may be the most inhibited ones although the pitting concluded that for QCI 810 inhibitor, the minimum corrosion is more dangerous than the uniform concentration was 50 ppm and that should be corrosion, and it can cause leaking faster than added daily to aquifer water to control the corrosion the uniform corrosion. for CS. The 50-ppm QCI 810 EN test time records 3. The correlation between noise resistance (Rn) showed that the samples suffered from pitting and polarization resistance (Rp) was almost corrosion with time since typical transients for 1:1 and supported prior theoretical and passivity breakdown, pitting initiation and pitting experimental work that indicated that Rn and growth were seen in these time records. For Rp measure was essentially the same thing. the 70-ppm inhibited samples, EN time records Thus Rn can be used successfully as a tool for showed typical transients for inhibition and slight corrosion rate prediction. uniform corrosion during the experiment exposure 4. Effluent water with H2S is more corrosive than time and there were no pitting corrosion transient without it because H2S lowers the pH and appearing in their time records. SEM results increases the corrosion rate of carbon steel. confirmed that 50-sample were semi-inhibited, in 5. The best inhibitor for CS in stagnant Minagish which this sample had some localized corrosion aquifer water at room temperature and appearing in the lower area of the samples, while atmospheric pressure was QCI 810 of the 70 ppm-sample were inhibited (Figure 2) and 70 ppm concentration or QCI 150 with had light uniform corrosion, rather than pitting 70 ppm. Inhibitor QCI 807M failed to indicating 70 ppm concentration of QCI 810 as protect the CS samples from corrosion in the most suitable concentration to be used for aquifer water. protecting CS in stagnant aquifer water rather than 50 ppm, as LPR results showed. 6. The best inhibitor for CS in stagnant Minagish effluent water at room temperature and atmospheric pressure was QCI 150 with 60 ppm concentration. The best inhibitor provided higher inhibitor efficiency (more than 90%) and most stable level of inhibitor efficiency. While inhibitors QCI 810 and QCI 807M showed lower and unstable level of inhibitor efficiency. a. Pitting corrosion b. Inhibition Acknowledgements Fig. 1. SEM micrographs: Surface morphology The authors gratefully acknowledge KFAS of CS sample after immersion in inhibited support. Minagish aquifer water by 65 (a) and 70 (b) References ppm of inhibitor QCI 150. Al-Mazeedi, H 2003. Electrochemical noise studies in inhibited systems. PhD thesis, University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, Manchester, UK. Cottis, R.A. 2001. Interpretation of electrochemical noise data. corrosion 57 (3): 265-285, National Association of Corrosion Engineers. Gusmano, G.; G. Montesperelli, S. Pacetti, A. a. Pitting corrosion b. Inhibition Petitti, A. D. Amico. 1997. Corrosion, 53(11): Fig. 2. SEM micrographs: Surface morphology of 860-868. the CS sample after immersing in inhibited Mansfeld, F.,and H. Xiao. 1993. Journal of the Minagish aquifer water by 50 (a) and 70 (b) Electrochemical Society, 140(8): 2205-2209. ppm of inhibitor QCI 810.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 85 Hydroisomerization of Light Naphtha Using Molybdenum and Tungsten-Based Catalysts (2005-1504-03)
F. Jassem Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The environmental regulations have become very rigid on the specifications of the gasoline fuel. Isomerization of light naphtha has a significant contribution to the octane pools since it has been used to offset the octane loss from lead phase-out and manage the benzene in motor fuel. Many catalysts and technologies currently exist for isomerization of light naphtha. This study is related to the development
of improved isomerization catalyst materials (MoO3/TiO2), finding out the best operational conditions for testing the reactivity of the catalyst using pilot plant scale.
Project Description Extensive pilot plant tests were completed involving In this part of the project, the catalyst performance the optimization of the operating conditions (LHSV, towards the selective isomerization of light naphtha
P, H 2/HC molar ratio) of C6 hydroisomerization was investigated. The tests were performed by
using MoO3/TiO2 catalyst. The catalyst physical using two types of feed. The first one is a module
properties are shown in Table 1. The isomerization industrial feed (47% C5, 47% C6 and 6% C7) and
catalyst (MoO3/TiO2) was subjected to systematic the other is an industrial KNG (Kuwait Natural testing and evaluation methodology using the Gasoline) from KNPC (Ahmadi refinery). The test pilot plant unit (Fig. 1). operating conditions are illustrated in Table 2. Table 1. Fresh Catalyst Physical Properties Table 2. Testing Conditions of Model and Analysis Units Value Industrial Naphtha Feed Bulk Density g/ml 1.1438 Reduction Conditions: H flow rate = 54 l/h Surface Area m2/g 44.38 2 Pressure = 5 bar Pore Volume cc/g 0.283 Temperature = 350 ºC Time = 12 h Reaction Conditions:
H2 flow rate = 54 l/h Pressure = 5 bar Temperature = 350 ºC Feed flow (model naphtha) = 18 ml/h LHSV = 0.5 h-1
H2/C ratio = 3000 L/L Stabilization time = 48 h Fig. 1: Isomerization/hydrotreating catalyst pilot plant. Conclusions and Recommendations The catalyst activity tests were carried out by flowing n-hexane in a fixed bed reactor loaded The preliminary results showed similar performance with 45 ml of MoO2/TiO2 catalyst under hydrogen trends as when using hexane feed. Moreover, the atmosphere. The effect of reduction temperature products of those tests showed a higher octane and other operation conditions, such as hydrogen number (Fig. 2). Time on stream experiments pressure, hydrogen to hexane ratio, space velocity showed stable conversions and selectivity. The and reaction temperatures on the activity of MoO3/ catalyst showed a good performance in the TiO2 catalyst for isomerization of n-hexane were isomerization reactions for both the model feed investigated in first part of the project. (n-hexane) and model industrial feed (naphtha).
86 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Acknowledg ments The author would like to acknowledge the financial support by KFAS. The project leader is grateful to Dr. Ali Katrib as well as the project team. Thanks are also due to KNPC, MA for their kind contribution in providing the needed feedstock. Finally, author conveys her appreciation to Dr. Meena Marafi, Department Manager, Petroleum Refining Department (PRD), for her support and encouragement.
Fig. 2. Octane number modification through the References isomerization of naphtha model feed using Alma, D., Esratrada-Villagrana, C. De La and MoO /TiO catalyst. 3 2 Paz-Zavala. 2007. Application of chemical The isomerization products distribution using the equilibrium for hydrocarbon isomerization analysis. Fuel 86: 1325-1330. MoO3/TiO2 catalyst was similar to the published distribution of industrial catalysts but with no Katrib, A., A. Benadda, J. Sobczak, and G. Maire. benzene formation. Moreover, the catalyst showed 2003. XPS and catalytic properties of the resistance to sulfur, moisture pollution and bifunctional supported MoO2(Hx)ac on TiO2 hydrocarbon poisoning. Also, the catalyst kept on for hydroisomerization reactions of hexanes a high selectivity, without the need for introducing and 1-hexane. Applied Catalysis A: General toxic and corrosive materials for its activation. 242: 31-40.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 87 Investigating a Novel Multiple Classifier System Design Strategy (2005-1510-02)
F. Alkoot Public Authority for Applied Education and Training
Abstract In order to improve the accuracy of classifiers, researchers found that combining (fusing) the decisions of more than one classifier would yield superior results over the best single classifier [1-6]. In this project attempt was made to prove the advantage of a novel fusion strategy, as proposed [7,8]. The aim was to find if the proposed method could outperform the single classifier as other combining methods did. The proposed design was based on the view that the design of individual experts and fusion cannot be solved in isolation. Each expert was constructed as parts of the global design of final multiple expert systems. The design process involved adding new features to each of the experts in the architecture. The project aimed at showing its advantage and finding out when it outperformed other methods. Experiment was undertaken with different variants of the design method and compared to the single classifier and existing combiner design methods. Its performance was investigated using four different types of classifiers, Gaussian, back-propagation neural network, one-nearest neighbor and the k-nearest neighbor classifiers. Experiments with synthetic and real data sets were conducted, which were also randomized to simulate varying classification conditions. Results showed that no single combining system design methodology achieves the best results on all classifier types or data sets and sizes. It was found that the proposed method competed well, although it did not always stand out as the best. All three versions outperformed the single classifier on most data sets and sizes, demonstrating its effectiveness as a combiner design method. It was observed that the method using 2-forward-1-backward feature selection method, which covered the data more closely, was the best on the validation set. It was the only method that created an independent number of features per component classifier. Its performance on the validation set reached very high levels on all data types. Unfortunately a similar performance on the test set was not achieved. However, contrary to bagging and the random subspace method, it was robust and kept a constant performance level regardless of the training set size or difficulty, and regardless of the classifier type.
Project Description It was proposed to design a combiner system classifier. The investigations were repeated for by finding the best features that yield the best synthetic data sets with varying characteristics and combiner performance. The novelty of this on real data sets from the UCI repository [13]. The combiner design method was in the fact that the data sets were also randomized to find out how the feature selection and the combiner performance system performed under severe conditions. The were linked. Investigations were simulated using fusion method was used to combine the classifiers Matlab. In the proposed method FSC1, one feature in Modified Product [9]. The proposed method to each of the three classifiers was added. The best was compared to existing combiner systems, feature was selected using the forward feature such as bagging [10], random subspace selection selection method. This method added the same method [11] and a conventional system involving number of features to all three classifiers. FSC2 a mixture of different types of classifiers. The three method is similar to FSC1, except that a feature types of classifiers mixed were the Bayes, k-NN, cannot be repeated in all three classifiers. In FSC3 and the neural network classifiers. Three diversity the two forward-one backward feature selection method is used. Contrary to methods 1 and 2, this measures [12] were used to calculate the diversity method does not necessarily add a feature to all between pairs of classifiers in each system. These three classifiers. We may stop at any point in the measures were the disagreement measure, the feature selection process if the addition of a feature correlation measure and the Q statistic. Each degrades the system performance. To establish a experiment was repeated 50 times and then the baseline, the performance of the combiner systems accumulated classification rate was averaged. was compared to the performance of the single classifier, based on the forward feature selection Conclusions and Recommendations method. Experiment was conducted by applying No single combining system design methodology the method to four types of classifiers: Gaussian, achieved the best results on all classifier types or k-nearest neighbor, one-nearest neighbor and data sets and sizes. It was found that the proposed a three layer back-propagation neural network method competed well, although it did not always
88 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project stand out as the best. All three versions Acknowledgements outperformed the single classifier on most data sets and sizes. It was observed that FSC3, which The support by KFAS under grant number 2005- fitted the training set better than other methods, 1510-02 is gratefully acknowledged. yielded best results on the validation set, reaching the optimum rate of 100 percent. This indicated References that it can be the best candidate if the test set is 1. T.K. Ho, J.J. Hull, and S.N. Srihari. Decision closely related to the training set. This directed combination in multiple classifier systems. to experimentation with variants of the data sets IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and where the training set was made more difficult Machine Intelligence, 16(1):66–75, 1994. by adding a random number to it. This yielded best results, compared to when only the test set 2. J. Kittler, M. Hatef, R. Duin, and J. Matas. On or the full set were randomized. Experiments on combining classifiers. IEEE Trans Pattern the random test set represented an extreme case Analysis and Machine Intelligence, where the training set was different from the test 20(3):226–239, 1998. set. Since the system was designed to optimize 3. J. Kittler. Combining classifiers: A theoretical on the training set, the system was expected to framework. Pattern Analysis and degrade under randomized test sets. Results Applications, 1:18–27, 1998. showed all the systems degraded when the test set was randomized but the proposed system was 4. D.S. Lee and S. Srihari. A theory of classifier never the best when neural network or nearest combination: The neural network approach. neighbor classifiers were used and was rarely the In Proceedings of the Third International best when the Gaussian classifier was used. Based Conference on Document Analysis and on this, it can be concluded that the proposed Recognition, volume 1, pages 42–45. IEEE, method designs classifiers fit the training set very 1995. well. 5. L. Xu, A. Krzyzak, and C.Y. Suen. Methods of A more difficult case was when both training combining multiple classifiers and their and test sets were randomized, representing applications to handwriting recognition. a very difficult data set. In such a scenario all IEEE Trans. SMC, 22(3):418–435,1992. systems degraded below the single classifier in most instances, with bagging showing the best 6. Ludmila Kuncheva, A Theoretical study on six performance, followed by FSC3. An exception was classifier fusion strategies, IEEE trans on when a Gaussian classifier was used, where the PAMI, vol 24, no 2, 2002. proposed system performed better than the single 7. F. M. Alkoot and J. Kittler. Feature selection for classifier. an ensemble of classifiers. In Proceedings Therefore it can be concluded that the system of the SCI2000 conference, pages 622-- can be used if the data is of good quality and the 627, Orlando, Florida, 2000. training set is a good representation of the test 8. F. M. Alkoot and J. Kittler. Multiple expert system set. The system can be recommended, especially design by combined feature selection and if the Gaussian classifier is used. It was found probability level fusion. In Proceedings of that the method was robust and kept a constant the Fusion 2000 conference, volume II, performance, regardless of training set size or pages ThC5(9--16), Paris, France, 2000. classifier type. Bagging and RSM degraded when there was a dimensionality problem, that is, when 9. F. M. Alkoot and J. Kittler. Modified product experimenting with the Ionosphere data under fusion. Pattern Recognition Letters, small training set size. Therefore, FSC3, which fits 23(8):957-965,2002 the data best, is recommended as a good option 10. L. Breiman. Bagging predictors. Machine for designing multiple classifier combiner systems. Learning, 24:123–140, 1996. It is robust and keeps a constant performance level regardless of the training set size or difficulty, 11. Ho, T. K.: The random subspace method mostly regardless of the classifier type. for constructing decision forests. IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and The diversity between designed classifiers was Machine Intelligence, Vol. 20, No. 8 (1998) measured by the different methods. Although 832-844. diversity was required to achieve a good performance, a direct and clear relation between 12. Ludmila I. Kuncheva, Combining Pattern the measures and the performance of the systems Classifiers, Methods and Algorithms, Wiley, was not found. It was found that the neural 2004 network classifiers were more diverse. Overall, the classifiers built using the FSC2 system yielded 13. C.L. Blake, E. Keogh, C.J. Merz. UCI repository higher diversity results, followed by the random of machine learning databases, http://www. subspace method. FSC1 and bagging was next ics.uci.edu/mlearn/MLRepository.html, and showed mixed results. FSC3 yielded the Department of Information and Computer lowest diversity results. Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, 1998.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 89 Developing Al-Noor Press and Computer Laboratory for the Blind in Kuwait Special Schools (2005-1510-03)
N. Al-Ghurair, H. Qasem, G. Al-Naqi and E. Yamar Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract In this project, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) has added the state-of-the-art equipment and software to Braille computer laboratories in Al-Noor Schools (boys/girls). Blind students will be able to access computers easily, which will eventually give them better chances for employment.
In addition, this equipment will be a helpful teaching tool by which blind students can easily understand maps and demonstrating diagrams. Al-Noor Braille printing press was equipped with sophisticated Braille embossers which will enable the press to print maps with raised dots for the first time.
Project Description In 1994, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research In this project, advanced Braille terminal were (KISR) had established Al-Noor Braille printing installed in Al-Noor computer laboratories with press (Qasem et.al., 1993), which became the “HAL” screen reader software, Fig (1). only source of Braille text books for Kuwait Special Schools. This press enabled student to have their text books on time. KISR also transferred this technology to neighbouring GCC countries and provided all technical support to establish similar press.
With the evolving technology, new Braille Fig. 1. Braillewave the Braille Terminal. embossers with better outputs were developed. In addition, there was a high demand on Al-Noor In addition, talking Tactile Tablet was installed, Press and with available equipment Al-Noor Press which is a very helpful teaching tool that can be found it difficult to fulfill its duties. easily programmed to demonstrate maps and diagrams (see Fig 2.). In 1999, KISR had established computer laboratories for the blind students in Al-Noor schools (boys/girls) [Roy et. al., 2001]. It was first of its kind in Kuwait. It enabled blind students to access computers, search the internet and do their homework. Due to the advancement in technology, these equipment became incompatible with new computer operating systems. Hence, there was a need to upgrade these laboratories in order that the blind students access computers.
Fig. 2. Talking Tactile Tablet.
90 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Braille embossor was installed in Al-Noor equipment and developed necessary software laboratory to enable blind students and teachers for these equipment. In addition, KISR developed to print Braille homework and exams. KISR had easy-to-follow user guides for all equipment and developed all necessary drivers and programs software. With these equipment and software, Al- required and linked this equipment together Noor computer laboratories and press will be able through a hub and eventually to the internet. to fulfill their duties.
In this project, Al-Noor Press was equipped with a Acknowledgements high-tech Braille embossor that enabled the press KISR would like to express their gratitude and to print maps and diagrams in dots for the first appreciation for the financial support granted time. In addition, a Braille terminal was installed to by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of be used for proofreading. Sciences.
KISR had updated the bilingual Braille Editing References Software of the press and added new functions and features to enhance press output. The project Qasem, H., O. Al-Matar and O. Al-Sayegh. team developed an easy-to-follow manual of all Bilingual Braille Text Book Printing System, equipment and software. Final report, KISR4320, 1993.
Roy, W., H. Qasem, A. Al-Qattan, N. Al-Ghurair, Conclusions and Recommendations and O. Al-Matar. KFAS Braille Computer In this project, both Al-Noor computer laboratories Facilities for Kuwait Special Schools, Final and press were equipped with state-of-the-art report, KISR 6047, 2001. equipment and software. KISR installed all the
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 91 Effect of Severity of Operation Conditions on the Accelerated Aging of Residue Hydrotreating Catalyst (2006-1504-01)
F. Jassem Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract This project was conducted to find out the best conditions for accelerating the deactivation of ARDS catalyst systems at start-of-run due to coke formation. The acceleration of the test was attempted by systematically studying the effects of increasing the severity of operating conditions. The main objectives of the project were concerned in optimizing an accelerated test procedure for hydrotreating catalyst systems, based on increasing severity conditions at start-of-run and developing a better scientific understanding of the role of coke on the deactivation of ARDS catalysts under normal and severe operation conditions. The objectives were achieved through optimizing the conditions for accelerating the deactivation of the catalyst system at start-of run. Accelerating parameters (temperature, hydrogen pressure, hydrogen/oil ratio, liquid hourly space velocity, and an asphaltene-rich feedstock) were investigated first, individually with single catalyst to assess its effects, and then the combined effect of the most effective parameters was evaluated.
Project Description The overall activity of ARDS catalyst systems increased coke deposition and accelerated and their rate of deactivation are influenced by a catalyst deactivation. number of processes. During the investigation of Using Eocene-AR declined the catalytic activity the effects of severity of operation conditions on for sulfur removal and assisted in reaching the an ARDS catalyst system (5 different catalysts), deactivation stage after 850 hours on stream. one catalyst (hydro-desulfurization catalyst) was Whereas, using KEC-AR maintained activity of selected to focus the efforts of the study, and then, sulfur conversion to a level of 75% for extended the best conditions for deactivation acceleration time on stream of around 1200 hours before were subjected to the entire catalyst system. final stage of catalyst deactivation. Moreover, Each parameter, temperature, hydrogen pressure, the higher the feed content of CCR implies a hydrogen/oil ratio, LHSV and contents of carbon decrease in the H /Oil ratio of the product by the precursor in feedstock was investigated to assess ² hydrogenation process, causing coke deposition its effect on acceleration of catalyst aging. Then, on the catalyst surface and hindering the hydro- a combination of the most effective parameters conversion reactions. Furthermore, using Eocene- with respect to deactivation acceleration were AR feed showed lower vanadium removal activity evaluated. The experimental work of this study was than KEC-AR feed; this was due to the elevated performed on three different pilot plant units (U-02, capacity of asphaltene in the first feed, causing U-08 and U-13) to evaluate the performance of the rapid catalyst surface blockage and hindrance ARDS catalysts. Then, detailed characterizations in the adsorption of reactants to the active sites of the feed, product and catalysts were carried of the catalyst through the pores. The catalyst out for a better understanding of the performance went through final stage of catalyst deactivation of the catalysts and their life cycle. Low values with 900 hours on stream when it was subjected of reaction temperature, liquid hourly space to Eocene-AR feed; whereas, for KEC-AR feed, velocity, reaction pressure and H /Oil reported ² it acquired 1400 hours on stream. Reducing fast deactivation behavior of the catalyst. It is the pressure has a strong influence on the coke recommended that operating under 390°C, 0.5 deposition causing large loss in catalyst surface h-1, and 90 bar conditions will participate in a fast area and this contributed to diffusion resistance catalyst deactivation. to the reacting molecules through the catalyst Conclusion and Recommendations surface by constricting the catalyst pore diameter, and thereby, reducing effective catalyst life. The deactivation behavior of an industrial Furthermore, the analytical studies on the spent hydrotreating catalyst as a function of time on catalysts derived from the pilot plant testing stream using EOC-AR feed as carbon precursor provided further clarification on the role of coke and the appropriate operational conditions (LHSV in the deactivation of the catalysts. The results and pressure) was studied (Fig.1.). The results showed that decreasing feed space velocity and clearly showed that decreasing feed space velocity hydrogen pressure increased coke deposition and pressure in residue hydrotreating operations and accelerated the catalyst deactivation. Results
92 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project indicated that the coke build-up during the initial by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of phase of hydrotreating was very fast and the Sciences (KFAS). Thanks are due to Mr. Ahmad amount of carbon deposited reached about 25wt% Al-Otaibi and team, Dr. Meena Marafie, Dr. Houser of the fresh catalyst within 500 h. Temperature and team, KNPC, MA and the project team Programmed Oxidation (TPO) analysis showed (Ms. Jomana Jaffer, Ms. Moneera Al-Hajri and two types of coke, namely, soft coke and intractable Mr. Mubarak Mojbel) for all their support. surface coke on the spent catalyst. References In summary, it was clear that an accelerated aging of the hydrotreating catalyst can be achieved by Hauser, A.; A. Marafi; A. Stanislaus; and A. increasing the coke deposition and enhancing Al-Adwani. 2005b. Relation between feed pore plugging, and this can be gained by using quality and coke formation in a three-stage carbon precursor feedstock with low LHSV and artmospheric residue desulfurization (ARDS) low reaction pressure. Finally, the establishment process. Energy Fuels 19:544-553. of a testing methodology for catalyst systems Janssens, J. P.; A. D. Van Langeveld; S. T. Sie; used in an ARDS unit was very important, a critical and J. A. Moulijn. 1996. Catalyst deactivation issue that directly impacts refinery profits. The in hydrodemetallization. In Deactivation and testing methodology requires the assessment of Testing of Hydrocarbon Processing Catalysts, the catalyst system under conditions that would American Chemical Society, Washington, DC, yield results as fast as possible, and these results USA, pp. 238-252. must predict the catalyst performance under real refinery conditions. Jassem, F.; S AI-Salem and M. AI-Hajri. 2009. Effect of operation conditions on the accelerated Acknowledgements aging of residue hydrotreating catalyst. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, progress The author acknowledges the financial support report KISR 9614, Kuwait.
Fig. 1. Sulfur conversion vs. time-on-stream at different operating conditions.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 93 Nitrogen and Phosphorus Reduction/Removal from RO Reject Wastewater-Bench and Pilot Scale Study (2006-1505-01)
A. Shahalam, A. Abusam, S. Al-Shammari, N. Burney and H. Safar Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract This project addresses the problem of high concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in RO reject- wastewater deficient in carbon to levels acceptable for safe disposal and/or reuse. Three promising biological processes, (A) Up-flow sludge blanket filtration process; (B) cascaded aerator system with partial anaerobic condition and (C) de-nitrifying process with bacterial growth on fixed anaerobic porous media, followed by algae pond, have been tested at bench scale utilizing synthetic RO reject water for observing their performances. The tests results indicated that process (C) can successfully reduce total nitrogen and total phosphorus to levels of 0.3-7 mg/l and 0.7-1.2 mg/l respectively when their concentrations in inflow varied within the ranges of 21-53 mg/l and 7-21 mg/l respectively. Out of three external sources of carbon supply (methanol, glucose and acetate) to make up for carbon deficiency, acetate appeared to be more effective. Various concentrations of this carbon sources were tried separately in 79 test cases. Process with denitrification and algae appeared to be the best in removing total nitrogen and phosphate at ranges of 81-85% and 87-92%, respectively. Process (C) was tested at pilot scale using actual RO reject wastewater at 1m3/d transported from an advanced wastewater treatment plant in Kuwait. Three months of continuous operation generated 55 sets of data daily. The results indicated that in average total nitrogen and total phosphorus concentrations of 76 mg/l and 29 mg/l in RO reject wastewater can be removed by average of 76% and 86%, respectively. Average concentration of total nitrogen and total phosphorus in the final effluent remained at 13.9 mg/l and 3.3 mg/l respectively. The process is recommended for possible implementation in treating RO reject wastewater.
Project Description An extensive laboratory scale study was conducted on three proposed biological processes to treat RO reject wastewater resulting from RO process used for refining tertiary effluent of biological processes treating municipal wastewater. The test processes were as follows: (A) Up-flow sludge blanket filtration process; (B) cascaded aerator system with partial anaerobic condition and (C) denitrifying process with bacterial growth on fixed anaerobic porous media followed by algae pond (Figures 1-3). The bench-scale study was performed with synthetic RO reject wastewater (Intrasungkha, et al., 1999: MPW, 2006) in order to effectively control chemicals in feed water stream. Fig. 2. USBF. To make up for carbon deficiency in this RO reject wastewater, external carbon sources such as methanol, glucose and acetate were tested.
Fig. 1. Cascaded System. Fig. 3. Fixed Media Denitrification and Algae.
94 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project In laboratory scale study average hydraulic Process (C) was tested at pilot scale at a flow detention time in processes (A) and (B) were of 1 m³/d of actual RO reject wastewater. At 19 h and 24 h respectively. In process (C), de- pilot tests, the units in process (C) had same nitrification unit had a hydraulic detention time of hydraulic detention times as they were in bench- 10-10.5 h while algae tank had hydraulic detention scale process. The results clearly indicated that time of 31 h (24 hours light exposure). Table 1 average total nitrogen and total phosphorus shows the average performances of three systems concentrations of 76 mg/l and 29 mg/l in RO reject tested in bench-scale study in removing total wastewater can be decreased by average of 76% nitrogen (TN) and phosphate (PO4) with glucose, and 86%, respectively. Average concentration methanol and acetate additions. of total nitrogen and total phosphorus in the final effluent remained at 13.9 mg/l and 3.3 mg/l The tests results indicated that process (C) can respectively. It was a significant achievement. A successfully reduce total nitrogen and total techno-economic evaluation of the process was phosphorus by 81-85% and 87-92%, respectively. undertaken for a design flow of 40,000m³/d. The The concentrations of total nitrogen and cost figures represented the complete system. phosphorus were 0.3-7 mg/l and 0.7-1.2 mg/l The unit cost was expected to be 0.03KD/m³ respectively when their concentrations in inflow without external carbon source. In such case, it varied within the ranges of 21-53 mg/l and was anticipated that an addition of raw wastewater 7-21 mg/l respectively. The results evidently with RO reject water can supply 10 mg/l of BOD5 indicated that process (C) out-performed the other equivalent, which was necessary. With addition of two in removing nitrogen and phosphorus from external chemical such as glucose or acetate as RO reject wastewater. carbon source, the cost rose to 0.19KD/m³.
Table 1. Average Performance of Bench-Scale Processes in Removing Nitrogen and Phosphorus
Average Percentage Removal (all cases of each process)
Process TN as N PO4 as P Glucose Methanol Acetate Glucose Methanol Acetate
Process A 53 46 52 54 45 43
Process B 55 60 56 51 50 47
Process C 84 81 85 87 87 92
Conclusion and Recommendations Acknowledgements
Based on study results, the system consisting Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) of denitrification unit and a unit of algae tank gratefully acknowledges the funding of the project appeared to be the most effective in removing by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of total nitrogen and phosphorus by average 76% Sciences (KFAS). and 86%, respectively. The unit cost of treatment was expected to be References: 0.03KD/m³ without external carbon source. In Intrasungkha, N., Keller, J. and Blackall, L. (1999). such case, it was anticipated that an addition of Biological Nutrient Removal Efficiency in raw wastewater with RO reject water can supply Treatment of saline wastewater. J.Wat. Sci. 10 mg/l of BOD equivalent. Alternatively, using 5 Technology, V.39, No. 6, pp. 180-190. acetate, the cost rose to 0.19KD/m³. MPW (2006), Personal data communication.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 95 Evaluating and Enhancing Emergency Services Systems in the State of Kuwait Using Artificial Intelligence (1997-1510-01)
A. Mahmeed Public Authority for Applied Education and Training
Abstract The emergency services systems in Kuwait are affected by several factors, mainly driver’s behavior. These services are medical, security, fire and civil defense. The main objectives of the emergency service in general are to respond and deal with urgent situations as quickly as possible with full utilization of resources. We describe a dynamic, adaptive communication strategy for multi-service systems, discussing the behavioral components of each service that need to be computed, and provide a quantitative solution to the problem of controlling these components. A number of performance measurements were applied so that the effectiveness of the adaptive communications strategy could be measured quantitatively.
To ensure a close association with real-world applications, this research addresses the general problem in the context of applications in domains such as network, equipment, materials and workforce management taking into account special situations in Kuwait. Through careful use of generic and optimization methods and knowledge-based systems, such as Bees algorithm, and Swarm Intelligence algorithm, this project is considered a major contribution to the creation of a general distribution decision-support workbench for the benefit of emergency services systems in the State of Kuwait.
Project Progress A dynamic adaptive communication strategy for The current emergency services do not have multi-service systems discusses the behavioral information system that can integrate the components of each service that need to be emergency services to perform a complete co- computed and provide a quantitative solution to operative information system. It is proposed that the problem of controlling these components. each emergency service represent an intelligent A number of performance measurements were agent, represented in emergency vehicle applied so that the effectiveness of the adaptive notification systems. To accomplish this, traffic communications strategy could be measured control measures are needed. quantitatively. The adaptive communications strategy is expected to be effective for fully Control and navigation of busy intersections is a connected networks of services. Experiments with dangerous situation during a response. Numerous non-fully connected networks showed that the studies have shown that intersections are the adaptive communications strategy is reasonably most likely location for an emergency vehicle effective. Other experiments investigated the ability of the adaptive communications strategy to be involved in a crash. Managing traffic flow to compensate for “distracting” services, for during highway operations also is critical to the systems where services are required to assume safety of responders. Reviewing the use of optical the role of information routers, and for systems pre-emption for safely navigating controlled that must decide between routing paths based on intersections to assist in traffic management cost information (speed of providing the required during highway operations is just one of the service). several measures. Application Software
Service Agent
Agent Directory Agent Management Control Communication System
Message Transport Platform
Agent Platform
Fig.1. Integrated information system for the emergency services using rule-based agents system.
96 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Development of Effective and Water-Efficient Condenser Pre-cooling System (2004-1508-04)
Y. Al-Hadban, G. Maheshwari, H. Al-Taqi and R. Alasseri Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The summer season in Kuwait is mainly dry. Thus, for the air-cooled air-conditioning (A/C) systems, pre- cooling of condenser air can provide an excellent opportunity to enhance their cooling capacity, and reduce peak power demand and annual energy consumption. A reduction in the peak load is achievable by installation of suitable condenser pre-cooling systems (CPSs) for all A/C systems with air-cooled (AC) condensers. However, these important advantages can only be materialized to achieve technical feasibility and economic viability of such systems if their negative impact due to reduction in airflow across the condenser and water consumption in their operation are not high.
Project Progress The project, funded by Kuwait Foundation for Field data collection and performance assessment the Advancement of Sciences and Ministry of is to be executed once the final commissioining Electricity and Water (MEW) is concerned with takes place. the development of cost-effective condenser pre- cooling systems (CPS) that are technically suitable Conceptual design of the pilot scale laboratory for Kuwait. system has been finalized. A five-tonne conventional package unit will be modified by This project with a duration of 27 months started replacing its direct expansion evaporator by shell in April 2007. During the first nine months it made and tube heat exchanger. The cooling produced considerable progress. The project involves by the system will be decipated in a load simulator installation of a few CPSs in different types of A/C as per the schematic shown in the figure below. systems with A/C condensers, such as mini-split units, package units and chillers. This is to be
QH = HEAT followed by conducting trial runs, implementing REJECTED BY REGRIGERANT modifications, and collecting field performance TO THE AMBIENT data over a full summer season. Finally, using this 4 3 AIR COOLED CONDENSER information, an engineering-economic analysis is to be conducted to establish feasibility and suitability of CPSs for use in Kuwait. W IN= EXPANSION COMPRESSOR WORK DEVICE IN PUT Beginning from January 2009, installation of the Condenser Pre-cooling Systems (CPS) started at two sites. CPS components comprise of panels 1 2 made of non-metalic mesh with aluminum frame, plastic nozzles for spraying the water over the mesh, a pumping system to feed the water to WATER COOLED EVAPORATOR the nozzles and a water-flow regulating system. Q =HEAT In addition, another part of the work required the L ABSORBED BY REFIGERANT installation and commissioning of the instrument FROM COOLED and data-logging systems. This comprised of mounting of flow meters at the chosen sites, calibration and installation of water and air temperature sensors. THERMAL LOAD SIMULATOR
Preliminary testing during the summer of 2009 took place. Results showed indications for some Fig. 1. Schematic diagram of the pilot scale laboratory adjustments and correction measure to be system. considered.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 97 Quality Assessment and Waste Reduction in Kuwaiti Manufacturing Industries (2005-1506-02)
T. Issa Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Manufacturing companies in Kuwait need to attain high levels of quality and efficiency and reduce manufacturing cycle-time as the competitive parameters for production operations. Therefore, lean production is being introduced as the approach to assess quality and reduce waste in Kuwaiti manufacturing industries. In this research project, a conceptual lean production model has been developed and used to assess the current quality and efficiency levels in selected Kuwaiti manufacturing industries. Assessments have been conducted using manufacturing data that were collected through a survey of the selected industries. Assessment results will be used to suggest potential changes that can be implemented to improve manufacturing processes in the participating Kuwaiti industries. The assessments and related recommendations will be presented in the final phase of the project.
Project Progress Lean production is being introduced as the In the current phase of the project, samples approach to assess quality and reduce waste of manufacturing processes from the selected in Kuwaiti manufacturing industries. As part of companies have been identified for assessment Task 1 of this study, several important concepts and a “questionnaire model” has been developed of lean production were introduced to selected and distributed to 116 participating manufacturing Kuwaiti manufacturing industries. A conceptual companies in order to collect process performance lean production model has been developed in Task data samples. The data collected is being 2 of the study (as shown in Fig. 1.), and is being used to assess impacts of potential changes on used to assess the “current” quality and efficiency performance of the manufacturing processes performances of selected Kuwaiti manufacturing under study. These assessments will be analyzed industries. and presented in the last phase of the project.
Fig. 1. Lean production model for a Kuwaiti manufacturing company.
98 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Recovery Performance of Partially Fractured Gas Condensate Reservoirs (2006-1504-03)
F. Qasem, Y. Khalaf and A. Elsharkawy Kuwait University
Abstract Naturally fractured gas-condensate reservoirs are important contributors to world oil and gas reserves and production. Behavior of naturally fractured reservoirs is quite different from that of conventional reservoirs because of the intrinsic anisotropic and heterogeneous nature of the fractured formations. A reservoir with spatially irregular and random distribution of fractures is called partially fractured reservoir (PFR). Fracture intensity (FI), identified as the key factor in characterizing the partially fractured reservoirs, is believed to be directly related to the reservoir productivity. Further, matrix-fracture fluid transfer involves several complex phenomena at the microscopic pore level and at the macroscopic reservoir level. Modeling and simulation of oil recovery from partially fractured reservoirs is a challenging task. Creation of different mobility zones and productivity reduction due to retrograde condensation and re-infiltration of the down-structure matrix blocks greatly reduce the overall recovery from condensate reservoirs. The objective of this project is to study the recovery performance of partially fractured gas condensate reservoirs by primary depletion and by lean gas injection. This study is expected to set forth and describe conditions that would help in improving oil recovery from gas condensate reservoirs in Gulf area and in other parts of the world.
Project Progress Most of the planned simulation work pertaining reservoirs and various phenomena that take place to both the cases of depletion drive and gas therein. Further, the results suggest that for fracture injection has been completed. The simulation runs intensity greater than 60% the behavior of partially conducted cover FI values from 0.05 to 1 and a fractured reservoirs is very different than that for wide range of gas injection rates. fracture intensity less than 60%, Figure 1 shows the ultimate oil recoveries of partially fractured The results obtained so far are encouraging and reservoirs for different fracture intensities and gas- exhibit very useful information regarding the condensate flow rates. behavior of partially fractured gas condensate
0.9
0.8
0.7 q1 q2
] 0.6 q3 n o
i q4 t c
a 0.5 qb r f [ [fraction] q5 D pD p N 0.4 q6 q7 0.3 q8
0.2
0.1 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 FractureF racture IIntensnte ns i ityty [[fraction]fraction]
Fig. 1. Depletion drive oil recovery of partially-fractured reservoirs as a function of FI and gas- condensate flow rate.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 99 Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion of Carbon Steel in Sea and Effluent Water Injection Plants of North and West Kuwait Oil Fields (2006-1504-04)
H. Al-Mazeedi, F. Al-Attar and N. Tanoli Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The aim was to study Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) in seawater injection plants of north Kuwait oil fields using Electrochemical Noise (EN) and other techniques. The corrosion behavior of carbon steel API 5L 0318 in seawater with aerobic bacteria were studied. The results showed that the carbon steel samples were corroded uniformly with a steady state value at first 12.85 days, forming a protective passive layer on the metal surface that reduced the corrosion rate. This passive layer of the corrosion product broke down at 12.85 days of immersion due to the metabolism of the microbes that generated H2S leading to reduction in the pH value on the metal surface and breaking the passive layer. The MIC started on the CS surface after breaking the passive layer immediately and grew with time, causing severe corrosion for the carbon steel under the corrosion product layer. EN technique successfully evaluated, studied, analyzed and monitored the uniform corrosion and MIC of carbon steel in seawater.
Project Progress This part of the project studied the initiation increased until the end of the experiment. This and growth of MIC for carbon steel in seawater could reflect the active reaction of the microbes and contaminated with aerobic bacteria at 37°C and the aerobic bacteria colony on the sample surface, pH value 8.2. The corrosion behavior of carbon increasing the number of the ions in the solution steel API 5L 0318 was studied by weight loss, and reducing the pH due to metabolism that linear polarization resistance (LPR), impedance generated H2S gas that broke down the passivity of (EIS), open circuit potential and EN. Both the the passive layer, starting the microbial corrosion. polarization resistance (Rp) and corrosion rate This active MIC reaction gave a thicker corrosion (C.R.) were measured by LPR technique and product layer containing the microbe colony, which plotted versus time as shown in Fig. 1. It was caused the change in the corrosion product layer noticed that the carbon steel corroded in the first 5 from reddish into reddish yellow and with time days severely in which Rp was relatively low and the to brownish yellow. C.R. was relatively high. After that the Rp gradually increased and the C.R. gradually decreased until Time records for electrochemical potential and 17.7 days, which could be due to the building up current noise results showed precisely how the of a thick and protective layer of corrosion product corrosion started immediately after immersion and in this time on the sample surface that reduced how the corrosion product built up with time on the the corrosion reaction. This was confirmed after metal surface, forming a passive layer. This layer 11 and 22 days (see Fig. 2) and by the SEM/ was broken after 12.85 days of immersion due to EDS. Those precipitates and corrosion products the microbe metabolism that generated H2S under were Fe3O4, Fe2O3, CaCO3 and salts of NaCl and the layer of the corrosion product, leading to CaCl according to EDS and XRD analysis. But reduction in the pH value on the metal surface and disturbances occurred in both Rp and corrosion consequently breaking the passive layer. Active rates between 17.7 and 22.2 days and after that MIC and corrosion increased with time. the R gradually decreased and C.R. gradually p 25 1600
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0 0 a. at 44 b. after 66 d c. after 77 d d. after 90 0 102030405060708090100 d TimeTime (days)(days) Fig.2 Carbon steel samples tested in sea water Fig.1. Corrosion rate, polarization resistance of CS with aerobic bacteria at pH 8.2 and 37°C after in sea water at 37ºC and pH of 8.2. different exposure times.
100 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Recovery of Metals and Alumina from Spent Hydroprocessing Catalysts (2006-1504-05)
M. Marafi Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Large quantities of spent hydroprocessing catalysts are discarded as solid wastes in the petroleum refining industries of Kuwait. These waste catalysts pose a serious environmental problem because of their hazardous nature. Recycling and utilization of the spent catalysts can reduce the environmental problem in a profitable way. The overall objective of this research project is to develop an improved process for the recovery of valuable metals and alumina from spent hydroprocessing catalysts. The progress made in various project tasks includes metal extraction studies by four different methods, namely, acid leaching, ammonia leaching, roasting with sodium salts and digestion with caustic soda under pressure. Caustic digestion and hydrothermal treatment methods were used for the recovery of alumina in the form of pure boehmite [AlO(OH] from the spent catalyst after extracting the metals.
Project Progress Metal extraction studies by four different methods leaving NiO as residue. Hydrothermal treatment were used: (a) acid leaching, (b) ammonia methods were used to recover the alumina in the leaching, (c) roasting with sodium salts, and form of pure boehmite [AlO(OH)] from the spent (d) digestion with caustic soda under pressure. catalyst after extracting the metals. Hydrothermal Among the various acid tested, EDTA was the treatment conditions (temperature and time) had a most effective acid reagent for extracting valuable strong influence on the surface area and porosity metals (Mo, V and Ni) from the spent catalyst. of the recovered boehmite. Under optimum Organic acids were, in general, more effective conditions the recovered boehmite had desirable than inorganic acids for metal extraction. surface area and porosity values for reuse in catalyst preparation. Experiments were also conducted to compare the effectiveness of ultrasonic agitation and 100 conventional stirring techniques for the extraction of Mo, V, Ni and Al from the spent catalyst using Ultrasonic 95 EDTA. The results (Fig. 1) showed that ultrasonic agitation method was more effective than the conventional stirring technique with a magnetic 90 stirrer for the leaching of metals (Mo, V, Ni and Al) Conventional from the spent catalyst by acid reagents. More 85 than 97% of the valuable metals (Mo, V and Ni) Mo Extracted (wt %) were extracted from the spent catalyst by EDTA reagent with ultrasonic agitation at 60°C. The 80 EDTA reagent used in the extraction process could 02468 be recovered with high purity for re-use. Time (h)
In soda ash roasting process, greater amount of Fig. 1. Comparison of ultrasonic agitation vs. Mo and V were removed from the spent catalyst conventional stirring on recovery of leaving Ni and Al2O3 as residue. In the caustic soda molybdenum using EDTA (10%) at 60°C. roasting method, Mo, V and Al were recovered
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 101 Optimum Burial Depth of Submarine Pipelines for Kuwaiti Marine Environmental Conditions (2006-1508-02)
S. Neelamani, K. Al-Banaa, K. Al-Salem, W. Al-Nassar and A. Al-Ragum Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Submarine pipelines are used for transporting crude oil, gas, water etc. in the marine environment. They need to be buried in order to reduce the hydrodynamic forces and excessive stresses. The depth of burial depends on the marine environment, sub-sea soil strength, product to be transported etc. It is a site- specific problem. The present project aims to assess the optimum burial depth at five different locations in Kuwaiti marine environment. The problem can be solved by using physical model studies using the wave flume. A model scale of 1:10 to 1:15 was fabricated. Necessary instruments were procured. The soil from Kuwaiti marine environment was collected and analyzed. Model fabrications were completed and the experimental investigations need to be completed for further analysis.
Project Progress Many public and private organizations use balance and kept above the sea bed for the submarine pipelines in the Kuwaiti marine reference case study (see Fig.1). The next phase environment. For example, KOC is using it for is the measurement of dynamic pressures, in- transporting crude oil from land to ships moored line and vertical forces and scour around the at a water depth of about 25 to 30 m offshore. pipeline for different burial depth and for different MEW uses the submarine pipeline as seawater soil conditions. Time domain and frequency intake structure in Shuaiba area. In future, Kuwait domain analysis need to be carried out. The will use submarine pipelines for similar projects force reduction due to different burial depth will in its territorial waters. The pipelines are usually be obtained, which will guide us in proposing the buried with burial depth of 1 to 3 m, depending on optimum burial depth of the submarine pipeline the dynamic condition of the marine environment. for Kuwaiti marine environment. Burial is a very expensive operation. It is necessary to investigate and come up with optimum burial depth, which is called the minimum safe burial depth at which the hydrodynamic forces are less and pipeline will be stable in its place throughout its life span.
The safe burial depth of pipeline depends on the marine environment (wave, current, etc.), sub-sea soil strength, pipeline diameter and the material to be transported. In Kuwait, the first two above referred parameters are the functions of marine space. The northern part of Kuwaiti territorial water is dominated by currents and muddy bed and the southern part is dominated by waves and sandy sea bed. The present study was proposed for five different Kuwaiti marine locations. The problem is expected to be solved by using physical model investigation in the wave flume. A model PVC pipe of 20 cm outer diameter was selected and fabrication was carried out to fix 12 pressure sensors around the surface of the pipe. The false bottom of the flume was fabricated and erected. Marine soils from different locations were collected and sieve analysis was carried out. Instruments such as force balance, pressure sensors, scour Fig.1. Submarine pipeline model fixed with a six- probes and velocity probes are procured. The component force balance in the wave flume, pipeline was fixed with a six-component force KISR.
102 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Automation of Computer Network Re-design with Server Placement Considerations (2006-1510-03)
S. Habib Kuwait University
Abstract This research project concentrates on the early stages of the network topology re-design process, along with data management re-designing. The proposed model will incorporate two specific re-design activities, either adding or moving clients/servers in order to increase functionality and improve quality of services while minimizing re-design cost. It will be encoded within a custom-made evolutionary software program so that it can efficiently search the re-design space.
Project Progress Many enterprises (government or private) are discovered by the simulator. Since the problem looking into the capacity-planning of their computer is known to be an NP-complete problem, a networks for reducing unnecessary operational heuristic algorithm will be employed, such as, the costs of under-utilized sub-networks and servers. evolutionary approach in searching for the optimal An ideal network design approach has to consider or near-optimal network parameters. various factors such as cost, traffic load, quality of service to the clients during the planning stage Network Physical to yield optimal functionalities of the re-designed Description network. However, this is usually not possible due to computational complexity. Re-arranging the clients among the clusters, based on their Is it influence on the traffic flow, placing servers for available? optimal utilization, and re-clustering the existing Yes sub-networks to increase the throughput are a few of the re-design methodologies, which may result No in changes in the topology of the network. Network Discovery The proposed re-design methodology comprises Program of many tasks as illustrated in Figure 1. The first two tasks of the re-design process are to enter and model the existing network topology map in Network Translation the proposed software tool. The network topology Program map represents a complete documentation of all existing devices (clients, servers, networks, etc.) and their attributes, including the interconnections among the existing devices. There are three Discrete Simulator possible scenarios for the existing network topology map, either it is available, unavailable, or partially available. The worst case scenario Redesign within is that the network topology map is completely Evolutionary unavailable. Thus, we can utilize a network Approach discovery program.
In the third task, a discrete simulator was utilized No to determine the bottlenecks within the current Satisfy all topology. Various scenarios were simulated in constraints? order to compare the utilization and the traffic characteristics of the original network with the Yes outcome of the fourth task (re-designed network).
The next phase of this project will deal with the Optimized Network task of formulating the network re-design problem including the server placement as an optimization Fig. 1. An overview of the proposed re-design network of the problem to remove all possible bottlenecks methodology.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 103 Performance Evaluation of Riqqa Secondary Treatment System (2007-1508-05)
A. Abusam and S. Al-Shammari Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Treated wastewater has become a viable water resource for Kuwait due to scarcity of fresh water, depletion of ground water and the high cost of seawater desalination. The proposed project aims to evaluate the performance of Riqqa activated sludge system and predict its future performance, using the activated sludge model No. 1 (ASM1). Analysis of the system performance data for the last three years indicated that it faced some problems during the winter season and it seemed to work under sub- optimal conditions. Thus, it can sustain more hydraulic and organic loads when operated under optimal conditions. Calibration of the model built in SIMBA software is now going on. Next step is to verify the model and then use it to predict the system’s future performance.
Project Progress Historical performance of the system was results of the wastewater samples collected from evaluated using the plant’s records for the years March to September 2009. The next steps will 2004 to 2007. Obtained results indicated that the verify the model and use it to predict the system’s system faced problems during winter seasons and future performance. Verification of the model is it seemed to have operated under sub-optimal planned, using data for the period from October conditions. Thus, it can sustain more hydraulic 2009 to February 2010. Prediction of the system’s and organic loads when operated under optimal future performance will be carried out, based on conditions. Calibration of the model built in SIMBA realistic future scenarios of the plant. software (Fig. 1) is now going on, using analysis
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104 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project The Economic Utilization of Waste in the State of Kuwait (2008-1508-01)
J. Al-Ammar Industrial Bank of Kuwait
Abstract The growing rate of waste generation in recent years is putting significant pressure on municipal services in Kuwait, particularly from financial, managerial, environmental and land perspectives. Thus, better planning, including the promotion of recycling and waste minimization, should lead to more effective use of land and better economic utilization of waste.
This study prepared by the World Bank at the request of the Industrial Bank of Kuwait and supported by the Ministry of Finance and Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, addresses the problems and challenges that this sector currently faces. It provides an independent assessment of the current conditions of the solid waste sector in Kuwait and recommends steps towards improving its management and present viable waste recycling investment opportunities for this sector.
Project Progress The research team conducted an assessment It analyzed the potential of re-cycling of solid of the current conditions pertaining to the solid waste in Kuwait, the existing practices and the waste sector in Kuwait. Project tasks included economic benefits. Eight new industrial investment survey and analysis of the types and amounts opportunities were identified in the re-cycling sector. of waste generation, the policy and institutional frameworks, the current practices of collection, The third task, which involves the development of separation and disposal of waste. In addition a solid waste management model and incentive to conducting an economic and environmental mechanisms to promote the development and analysis of this sector, a strategic action plan was investment in this sector, is in progress. chalked out and recommended. The next task will deal with the documentation of The second task addressed the assessment of the final findings. A seminar will also be organized waste re-cycling investment opportunities in the to present the project’s findings as well as country. recommendations for the benefit of the public.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 105 Production and Characterization of Synthetic Ceramic Lightweight Aggregates Utilizing Kuwaiti Argillaceous Materials (2005-1508-01)
S. Al-Bahar and V. Bogahawatta Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The diminishing reserves of local natural gravel provide additional incentive to substitute synthetic aggregate wherever possible and reserve the scarce gravel for high strength concrete applications. Preliminary investigation on the laboratory scale at Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research has demonstrated that good quality dense and light weight synthetic aggregate can be produced from the available local raw materials such as marine clay, desert clay, gatch and sand suitable for use in concrete blocks, pre-cast panels and structural applications. This study proposes to establish a pilot plant for production of synthetic aggregate and to find the optimum mixture of the raw materials, additives and firing regime for production of different densities of synthetic aggregates. Aggregates produced in the pilot plant will be evaluated in accordance to ASTM and British Standards. A production cost/economic analysis for a full scale manufacturing plant will be undertaken.
Development and Application of Arabic Computer Program for the Enhancement of Short-Term Memory of Dyslexics in School, Ministry of Education (2006-1510-02)
N. Al-Ghurair, H. Qasem, M. Al-Qotami, G. Al-Naqi and M. Khajah Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) managed to accomplish several pioneering projects to support people with special needs. In the past two decades, KISR managed to fulfill all the major needs of blind, mentally retarded, deaf and physically handicapped persons. In continuation, KISR proposes this pioneer project to support people with difficulties in reading (Dyslexia).
The project team, in coordination with the Kuwait Dyslexia Association (KDA), aims to develop Arabic Computer application for the enhancement of short-term memory of dyslexics. Once this application is approved by KDA, Specialist from KDA will apply this application in several schools and record the improvement of these cases as well as any modification needs to be done on the application. Being the first dyslexia treatment application in Arabic, the developed application will be in demand by Arab countries.
106 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project Development of a Fate and Transport Modeling Procedure for Accidental Nuclear Releases Reaching Kuwait Borders (2007-1501-02)
M. Al-Rashidi, S. Al-Hajraf, E. Dawoud and A. Aba Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract This project is part of the development of a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan that is mainly based on international experiences which demonstrate a mild to a global impact of severe nuclear reactor accidents. The objective of this work is to utilize a suitable atmospheric dispersion model to determine radiation contributions to off-site receptors at Kuwait borders due to a hypothetical accidental radioactive release scenario from inter-borders nuclear facility. The modeling results, governed by the meteorological and source release information will be used to calculate an off-site receptor dose at the early stage of the presumed accident and subsequently predict the human health impact at Kuwait›s borders. Consequently, dose estimates will be used to identify suitable intervention levels during the different stages of the accident. In the early stage, the dominant exposure pathways at an off-site receptor location will be external radiation, inhalation of radioactive particulates and dermal contact. In the intermediate stage, which is after the source and release are brought under control, additional exposure pathways, such as, ingestion of water pathway, should be included, as well.
A variety of models are available for evaluating the consequences of an atmospheric release of radioactivity. However, since Kuwait is not a nuclear energy producing country, it is most likely that accidental emergency plans should be warranted against nuclear releases from the borders, particularly from Iran. Therefore, the use of a sophisticated, yet representative model like HYSPLIT will be favorable. A pilot case study will demonstrate the procedural modeling guidelines that can be easily modified to continuously update the prediction of the actual impact of potential releases on off-site receptors at Kuwait’s borders, once data is made available. Ultimately, the proposed emergency intervention decisions will be administrated by adequate human health protective measures assuming an overly conservative choice of worst nuclear release scenario.
Use of Gamma-irradiated Polypropylene to Control the Degradation of Some Polyolefinic Blends (2007-1504-02)
S. Lahalih Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract This project concerns the study of using gamma-irradiated polypropylene to control the degradation of some polyolefinic blends. Kuwait petrochemical companies (PIC and EQUATE) currently produce about 850,000 tonnes of polyethylene and 100,000 tonnes of polypropylene annually. This capacity is expected to double in the next couple of years as part of phase II of expansion in olefins and aromatics. Most of the production is for export while some significant amount is used in Kuwait and in GCC for different applications like sacks made from polypropylene for flour and others which end up in waste. This waste that ends up in the desert causes all kinds of problems especially to animals like sheep, camels and others that expire upon eating these non-degradable plastic products.
Therefore, one of the main objectives of this proposed work is to develop polyolefinic-based blends that are degradable by using gamma-irradiated polypropylene which is prone to gamma radiation to control their degradation behavior under Kuwait's environmental conditions. Locally produced polypropylene and polyethylene (EQUATE and PIC) will be used for this study. Gamma irradiation facility in Kuwait or Saudi Arabia will be used to irradiate the polymers. The effect of the local environment on the properties of these blends will be assessed through accelerated and natural weathering testing. This proposed work is in line with the petrochemical processes program strategic plan. The project will be carried out with the cooperation of EQUATE.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 107 Assessment of the Water Rise Problem at Qurain Residential Area (2007-1505-02)
K. Hadi Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The study proposes a hydrogeological evaluation of the problem of the rise of groundwater level in the Qurain area of Kuwait. The rise in water level is flooding the basements of the residential and other buildings in this area. The presence of an old landfill in the area is aggravating the problem further as the rising water table may bring pollutants from the abandoned landfill in close contact with the inhabitants in the area and cause adverse effects on health and environment. The rising groundwater with its salt contents and other pollutants may also affect the structural integrity of the foundations of the buildings and cause damage to the properties. It may also result in making the buildings unsafe for the residents. An early investigation of the problem and adoption of remedial measures are, therefore, essential.
It is planned that several monitoring wells will be drilled in the area for the sampling of soil and groundwater. The wells will be monitored for water levels and water quality. The records of the changes in water levels in the wells with time will provide information on the rate of rise of the water table. The water quality parameters will provide indications on the source of the water that is responsible for the water rise problem. These data should also indicate the chemical corrosivity and environmental acceptability of the rising water. Additionally natural isotopes will be used to identify the local sources of recharge and help in formulating the solutions.
Assessment of Usable Groundwater Reserve in Northern Kuwait (2007-1505-03)
A. Fadlelmawla Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The occurrence of shallow groundwater with usable quality (less than 3000 TDS), in the north of Kuwait, has been known since the early sixties. However, in pursuit of economically feasible exploitable water bodies, the focus has always been on the major accumulations of freshwater in the depressions of Al-Raudhatain and Umm Al-Aish while other smaller accumulations were considered of no or less importance. Later on, the freshwater lenses at the Al-Raudhatain were regarded as strategic reserve for emergencies and its utilization was kept to a minimum. Nonetheless, concerns are looming regarding the limited volume of water, as national strategic reserve available in these lenses. Under such conditions, smaller accumulations of usable water, which are spread over north of Kuwait, stand out as the most viable option for sizable strategic reserve. Such accumulations may be roughly quantified at 350 Mm³. Emergency utilization plans, which should be readily available, require better knowledge of the spatial distribution of these waters as well as the replenishment rate from rainfall feeding their reserves. A study to contribute to such knowledge is proposed in this project. The study will utilize remote-sensing to work out the drainage morphometry to have an insight into potential areas for recharge, which leads to identifying the spatial distribution of usable water accumulations in the Dibdibbah Formation. Vertical distribution (depth) of the usable water will be determined using existing data and surface geophysical measurements. Drillings and isotopic analysis would be the verification tools for the output of the GIS/ remote sensing model. The soil water budget method, with the support of remotely sensed data will be used to calculate the recharge to north Kuwait watersheds. Chloride profiling will be used as means for verifying the results of soil water budget approach at specific points.
108 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project Hybrid Solar Photovoltaic/Wind Turbine Energy Generation System with Voltage-Based Maximum Power Point Tracking (2007-1508-06)
A. Al-Othman Pablic Authority for Applied Education & Training
Abstract This project proposes a hybrid energy system combining solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind generation (WG) as a small-scale alternative source of electrical energy, in particular where conventional utility is not feasible. A voltage based maximum power point tracking (MPPT) scheme will be devised for PV and WG. This scheme must be simple, cost-effective and efficient to extract the maximum available power under varying climatic conditions, without measuring the irradiance of PV or the wind speed of WG systems. A complete description of the proposed hybrid system along with detailed principle of operation will be given. Simulation of the hybrid system under investigation will be carried out using PSIM software or MATLAB-Simulink. An attempt will be made to implement an experimental prototype of the proposed system in laboratory for further validation of the simulated results.
The Effect of Using the RO Treated Wastewater on the Soil and Groundwater at Al-Abdally Farms (2008-1505-01)
H. Al-Qallaf Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Although good quality water resources are scarce and the climate is harsh, the encouragement and support of the Kuwait Government for the local farmers and the existence of the shallow brackish groundwater helped in increasing the farming activities in Kuwait. One of the major farming areas is Al- Abdally, which is located in the northern part of Kuwait. Farming activities in this area have continued since 1960’s. To meet the increasing demand of water for farming activity at Al-Abdally, high quality reverse osmosis (RO) treated wastewater has been supplied to the farms since November 2004. More than 300,000 m³ of this high quality water is being produced daily at the Sulaibiya Wastewater Treatment and Reclamation Plant and stored in tanks in the Ministry of Public Works Data Monitoring Center (DMC) before it is transported to Al-Abdally area through underground pipelines.
Using the RO treated wastewater for irrigation at Al-Abdally farms could have positive and negative effects on the environment. It could reduce the volume of groundwater used in irrigation, which could help in reducing the mining of groundwater in the study area. On the other hand, the very low salinity irrigation water could wash the salt from the top soil down to the groundwater. This study aims to determine the impacts of the RO treated wastewater used in irrigation on the groundwater quality, groundwater level and soil salinity.
This study also aims to investigate the concentrations and distribution of bacteria in the groundwater. It was observed that different types of bacteria were found in the groundwater and in the stored irrigation water. Recommendations for better storage of the irrigation water will be provided.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 109 Characterization and Treatment of Dairy Processing Wastewater Effluent for Re-use (2008-1505-02)
S. Al-Shammari and S. Bou-Hamad Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Kuwait Dairy Company (KD COW) is currently operating one of the largest dairy plants in Kuwait. This plant is located at Sulaibiya agriculture area and generates substantial amount of wastewater from manufacturing and cleaning processes. Presently, no treatment processes are used to treat this effluent which contains high concentration of organic and inorganic pollutants. Characterizing, treating and probably re-using of effluent are necessary to reduce the problem of disposal of dairy wastewater. The objectives of the proposed study constitute characterizing dairy wastewater and testing a treatment system consisting of conventional and advanced technology (microfiltration process) for treating this wastewater for re-use. This will be undertaken by evaluating the treatment process technically and economically based on water quality (influent and effluent) and cost analysis. Outcomes from this study will be crucial to the new trend of treating and re-using industrial wastewater in Kuwait.
Critical Success Factors Influencing E-Commerce in the State of Kuwait (2008-1510-01)
K. Abdullah Kuwait University
Abstract Electronic Commerce (E-Commerce), which enables business transactions to be conducted electronically, has demonstrated significant operational and strategic benefits. Developed countries have actively adopted e-commerce and have made it an integral part of business activities. Despite its ability to bridge economic and digital gap between developing and developed countries, developing countries are still slow in e-commerce adoption. Currently, there is still a lack of e-commerce readiness research in developing countries to fully assess the relevance of e-commerce in these unique environments. This study aims to shed light into the e-commerce readiness in Kuwait by assessing technological and environmental contexts.
This research project has three objectives:
1. Identify the factors that affect e-commerce applications in Kuwait and rank their importance. 2. Find out how consumers in Kuwait perceive e-commerce sites or their subsequent on-line shopping behavior. 3. Analyze the effectiveness of e-commerce web-sites in Kuwait.
The study will utilize three techniques to address the objectives. First, a quality assurance assessment will be performed to evaluate e-commerce web-sites in Kuwait. Second, interviews with e-commerce business owners/professionals will be conducted to find out the technological, legal, and cultural barriers facing e-commerce in Kuwait. Third, online questionnaire will be used to identify the customer perceptions toward e-commerce. Two hundred people are expected to participate in the survey.
110 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project New Techniques for Estimating the Distance of Open-Circuit Faults Using Distance Relays (2009-1505-01)
A. Al-Kandari Public Authority for Applied Education and Training
Abstract Electrical faults can be generally divided into two types, namely, Short Circuit Faults and Open Circuit Faults. Short circuit faults typically result in a significant increase in the electrical current, and, therefore, can be easily detected by various types of protection devices. Distance relays can determine the faults with a high level of accuracy. This study investigates the second type of electrical fault, i.e. faults that result from open circuits. These faults are manifested in many forms, including the following: 1- A cut in the transmission line which results in one side of the line hanging in the air (Open Circuit from One Side), while the other side touches the ground or the tower (Short Circuit from the Other Side). 2- A cut in the transmission line which results in both sides of the line hanging in the air (Open Circuit from Both Sides).
These types of faults in different forms, especially the first type, are considered to be the most difficult to deal with by long-distance relay devices. On the one hand, the conductor is open, allowing very little electrical current to pass stray capacitors, and hence, the resistance detected by long-distance protection devices becomes too large. On the other hand, there exists a ground fault and in this case, the task of detecting and identifying the location of the fault becomes very complicated.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 111 Medical Sciences
Subject Areas Allied Health Science and Nursing Anatomy and Physiology Dentistry Dermatology Internal Medicine Islamic Medicine Nuclear Medicine and Radiology Obstetrics and Gynaecology Oncology Ophthalmology Otorhinolaryngology Pathology Pediatrics Pharmacy Psychiatry Social and Preventive Medicine Surgery
COMPLETED 3 ONGOING 10 NEW 5 MEDICAL RESEARCHES ADDRESS PREVALENT AND IMPENDING PROBLEMS
Detailed assessment of Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) allele frequency of select donors from the Kuwaiti population, using DNA technology, provided fundamental information for the optimization of recruitment strategies and enhancing the quantity and diversity of stem cell donors’ registry in the State of Kuwait. For the first time in the country, the detection of parvovirus B19 DNA by PCR technique provided ample evidence of the circulating mechanisms of the virus and its association with red blood cells.
Ongoing research on diabetic rat models provided encouraging signs of accelerated wound healing, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic actions under severe oxidative stress. Preliminary results of a study probing the complications associated with Type 2 diabetes were placed on record, while evaluations of other related phenotypic and genetic factors were underway. Initial experiments of a research on diabetes provided no clue that hepatitis C viral load precipitated the development of diabetes-associated complications.
Ongoing researches focusing on the occurrences of eye disorders in people and cardiac reference ranges of pre-term babies continued with proposed experimentations during the year. Work also progressed on the interaction between two clinically used anti-ashtma drugs (salbutamol and theophylline) on the release of inflammatory mediators, following Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)- induced activation of human monocytes, with focus on determining the molecular mechanism of the interaction.
Investigations into the medical history of colorectal cancer cases, particularly the genetic data of patients with aggressive colorectal cancer. The use of microarray-CGH provided an excellent platform to examine the chromosomal aberrations at high resolutions. Medical scientists, seeking alternative diagnostic approaches, attempted to probe Candida colonization in cancer patients and preliminary results revealed the preference of the species to colonize in the respiratory tract of the cancer patients.
A prospective study initiated at Kuwait University during the year, aimed at identifying and comparing the molecular basis of myeloproliferative diseases in groups of patients with the presence/absence of genetic mutation. It is believed that this study would contribute to a better understanding of the nature of the diseases and, hence, lead the way to new approaches for diagnosis, classification and drug development in the country.
During the fiscal year, one of the sponsored projects initiated a cross-sectional survey of the prevalence and consequences of domestic violence in the country. Another novel project launched into a Bone and Joint Decade initiative, involving international researchers for assessing the musculoskeletal conditions of local residents. One of the main targets of another research was to gauge the fluoride intake by children through fluid consumption.
In a move to further improve the health status of the people in the State of Kuwait, a nation-wide survey was also proposed, in association with the World Health Organization.
113 HLA Gene Frequency in the Kuwaiti Arab Population and Establishment of National Registry (2003-1302-06)
S. Al-Shemmari, R. Ameen and Y. Luqmani Kuwait University
Abstract Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) plays an important role in the treatment of hematopoietic disorders. The immunologic and genetic relationship between donor and recipient profoundly influences the outcome of SCT. This donor/recipient disparity is mainly coded by Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA). This is a prospective study using DNA technology to assess the HLA allele frequency among Kuwaiti population.
Project Description Two hundred healthy, unrelated Kuwaiti blood Conclusions and Recommendations donors were randomly selected. DNA-based HLA typing was performed using microsphere HLA-A*02, A*24, and A*68 (21.5%, 13.9%, and based array genotype platform (Luminex Multi- 10.2%, respectively) were the three major HLA-A Analyte profiling system) with sequence-specific alleles. HLA-B*35, -B*51, and -B*30 (15.7%, oligonucleotide probes (SSOP) to distinguish 14.1%, and 11.9%, respectively) were the three HLA-A,-B,-C and HLA-DRB1,-3,-4,-5 and – DQA1, major HLA-B alleles. HLA-Cw*04, Cw*07, Cw* DQB1 alleles. Briefly, highly polymorphic exons 2 06, and Cw*15 (18.4%, 16.3%, 14.1%, and 11.9%, and 3 of class I and exon 2 of class II genes were respectively) were the four major HLA-Cw alleles. amplified using primer pairs attached to the kit. HLA-DRB1*07, a single predominate antigen of The 5´ ends of upper primers were labeled with the HLA DRB1 gene, accounted for 22.9% of the biotin. Each PCR product was hybridized with HLA-DRB1 alleles. HLA-DQB1*02, -DQB1*03, SSO probes, complementary of allele specific -DQB*06, and -DQB*05 (31.3%, 26.6%, 21.2%, sequence. Hybridized amplicons were labeled and 7.2%, respectively) were the four major with sreptavidin R-phcoerythrin that is specific HLA-DQB1 alleles. The three most common fluorescent ligand of biotin. Assignment of HLA five-locus haplotypes were A*02-B*50-Cw*06- typing is based on the reaction pattern compared DRB1*07-DQA1*02-DQB1*02; A*33-B*14-Cw*08 to patterns associated with published HLA gene DRB1*01-DQA1*01-DQB1*05; and A*24-B*08- sequence for HLA class I and class II. Cw*07-DRB1*03-DQA1*05-DQB1*02, showing significant linkage disequilibrium (LD) (P<0.05). Table 1. Comparison of Frequencies of HLA-A, -B, and DRB1 haplotypes were estimated by race/ ethnicity from a subset of donors in the NMDP registry and Kuwaiti Arab Donors (http:/ bioinformatics.nmdp.org/em-haplotype)
ASIAN AFRICAN KUWAITI CAUCSIAN ALL HAPLOTYPES PACIFIC AMERICAN HISPANIC ARABS WHITE ISLANDER BLACK A*02:B*50:DRB1*07 0.0507 0.001814 0.00088 0.004052 0.003327
A*24:B*08:DRB1*03 0.029 0.001148 0.000474 0.002415 0.001464
A*02:B*50:DRB1*13 0.029 0.00005 0.000054 0.000225 0.000281
A*02:B*51:DRB1*07 0.0217 0.000328 0.001368 0.001288 0.001653
A*11:B*51:DRB1*16 0.0217 0 0 0.000032 0.000262
A*24:B*35:DRB1*15 0.0217 0.002269 0.000235 0.000525 0.000342
A*68:B*40:DRB1*03 0.0217 NA NA NA NA
A*01:B*35:DRB1*13 0.0217 0.000553 0.000019 0.000168 0.000127
A*33:B*58:DRB1*03 0.0217 NA NA NA NA
A*33:B*14:DRB1*01 0.0217 NA NA NA NA
114 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Table 1 illustrates a comparison of frequencies of Acknowledgements HLA-A, -B, and DRB1 haplotypes between Kuwaiti Arabs and a subset of donors in the NMDP registry. The project team is grateful for the financial support from Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of These results show great differences in haplotype Sciences. frequencies between the Kuwaiti Arab population and potential Black African American, Asian/ Pacific Islander, white Caucasian, and Hispanic References donors. Therefore, it is important that a national bone marrow (BM) registry should be developed Holdsworth R, Hurley CK, Marsh SG, Lau M, to enable tissue-matched transplantation and Noreen HJ, Kempenich JH, Setterholm M, minimize the severe complications of SCT. An Maiers M. The HLA dictionary 2008: A summary establishment of a Kuwait stem cell biotechnology of HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1/3/4/5, and -DQB1 center would be a great advancement of science, alleles and their association with serologically locally and a cutting-edge technology that Kuwait defined HLA-A, -B, -C, -DR, and -DQ antigens. Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences can (2009) Tissue Antigens, 73(2), 95-170. nurture. The two main components of this center Marsh SG, Albert ED, Bodmer WF, Bontrop RE, would be: Dupont B, Erlich HA, Geraghty DE, Hansen JA, Mach B, Mayr WR, Parham P, Petersdorf A. Stem Cell Bank and Registry: EW, Sasazuki T, Schreuder GM, Strominger JL, Svejgaard A, Terasaki PI. Nomenclature - Unrelated umbilical cord blood stem cell for factors of the HLA system, (2002) Tissue bank. Antigens, 60(5), 407-64. - Autologous peripheral blood stem cell laboratory/bank. Spellman S, Setterholm M, Maiers M, Noreen H, - Unrelated peripheral blood stem cell Oudshoorn M, Fernandez-Viña M, Petersdorf laboratory/bank. E, Bray R, Hartzman RJ, Ng J, Hurley CK. - Tissue typing registry utilizing high Advances in the selection of HLA-compatible resolution DNA. donors: refinements in HLA typing and matching over the first 20 years of the National - Sequencing technology. Marrow Donor Program Registry. (2008) Biol Blood Marrow Transplant., 14 (9 Suppl),37-44. B. Research and Development - Stem cell drug discovery institute. - Regenerative Medicine.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 115 Improvement of Parvovirus B19 Diagnosis in the State of Kuwait (2005-1302-04)
W. Chehadeh¹, S. Uppal¹, M. Ali² and W. Al-Nakib¹ Kuwait University¹ and Ministry of Health²
Abstract The detection of parvovirus B19 DNA by nested polymerase chain reaction was significantly associated with symptoms observed in 15 to 20% of children. In the group of immunocompromised patients, a high B19 viral load was significantly associated with the onset of fever or transient aplastic crisis. Parvovirus B19 viremia was mostly associated with red blood cells. The parvovirus B19 particles bound on the surface of red blood cells could be efficaciously opsonized in vitro by specific antibodies that were potentially directed against the viral protein VP1u. These antibodies were prevalent in patients with past B19 infection and uncommon in patients with persistent B19 infection.
Project Description Parvovirus B19 causes erythema infectiosum in persistence of circulating B19 DNA by investigating children and is associated with a wide spectrum of the role of peripheral blood cells in harbouring clinical symptoms, such as arthropathy, anaemia, B19 particles. The case-control study included myocarditis and hepatitis. Infection can lead to plasma or serum specimen obtained from chronic disease and death in certain high-risk immunocompetent patients suffering from fever/ groups such as immuno-compromised individuals, rash (n=138), anemia (n=162), or rheumatoid pregnant women and patients with haematological arthritis (n=62), and from immunocompromised disorders. Laboratory diagnosis of B19 infection in patients suffering from either pyrexia of unknown Kuwait relies primarily upon serological methods. origin (PUO, n=25) or transient aplastic crisis However, during the early phase of aplastic crisis (TAC, n=50). The control group included and in immunocompromised patients, B19- 142 immunocompetent subjects and 50 specific IgM detection is frequently negative. DNA immunocompromised patients. detection is therefore required for the diagnosis of B19 infection. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)- Conclusions and Recommendations based methods used to detect B19 DNA are not In the group of immunocompetent patients, the yet developed in Kuwait, even though they have detection of parvovirus B19 DNA by nested PCR been shown to be more sensitive and specific than was significantly associated with symptoms serological methods. The main aim of this project observed in 15 to 20% children (Table 1). The was to improve the diagnosis of B19 infection in inter-rater kappa analysis showed low agreement Kuwait. The importance of detection of B19 DNA between results obtained from nested PCR assay by PCR was first determined. The B19 viral load and those obtained from serology IgM assay. The was further determined by quantitative real-time B19 DNA load in clinical samples was measured by PCR in order to predict the phase of infection and real-time PCR (Figure 1). The median B19 viral load the risk for disease progression. The project was in active infection was significantly higher (5.3 x 108 also intended to understand the mechanisms of copies/ml) than the one in non-active B19 infection Table 1. Markers of parvovirus B19 infection in asymptomatic and symptomatic children.
B19- B19-specific IgM B19-specific IgG Symptoms n DNA positive-patients positive-patients positive-patients n (%) n (%) n (%)
No symptoms 77 1 (1%) 7 (9%) 20 (26%)
Fever and Rash 97 15 (15%) 18 (19%) 13 (13%)
Anemia 92 18 (20%) 15 (16%) 19 (21%)
Arthropathy 12 2 (17%) 2 (17%) 2 (17%)
116 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project (1.2 x 104 copies/ml) (Figure 1). In the group of infection. The production of opsonizing antibodies immunocompromised patients, the prevalence of in persistent parvovirus B19 infection should be B19 viraemia was significantly higher in patients investigated in high number of patients to better with PUO than patients without symptoms. In understand the development of immunity to B19 contrast, the detection of B19-specific IgM was not infection. Furthermore, the IgG subclass involved significantly associated with PUO. The frequencies in the opsonization activity needs to be identified of B19 viraemia and B19-specific IgM positivity in since a balance between IgG subclasses may patients with TAC were not statistically different determine whether or not a plasma specimen can from those obtained in control group. However, opsonize RBC-bound B19 particles. a high B19 viral load was significantly associated with the development of TAC. Sequence analysis Acknowledgements of the detected erythrovial DNA in clinical samples showed 94-98% of homology with parvovirus This project would not have been possible without B19, human erythrovirus genotype 1. the generous support of Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). The Our results showed the importance of detection authors would also like to thank Kuwait University of B19 viremia in the early diagnosis of parvovirus Research Administration for their administrative B19 infection. The determination of B19 viral load help. was improtant to differentiate between recent, resolving and persistent infection. For the first References time, we provided evidence that in early, acute or persistent infection, B19 viremia was mostly Bönsch C, Kempf C, Ros C. Interaction of associated with red blood cells (RBCs), and not parvovirus B19 with human erythrocytes alters with circulating mononuclear or polynuclear cells virus structure and cell membrane integrity. J (Figure 1). The RBC-bound B19 particles could Virol 2008; 82: 11784-11791. be efficaciously opsonized in vitro by specific IgG Candotti D, Etiz N, Parsyan A, and Allain JP. antibodies that were potentially directed against Identification and characterization of persistent VP1u, prevalent in patients with past B19 infection, human erythrovirus infection in blood donor and uncommon in patients with persistent B19 samples. J Virol 2004; 78:12169-12178.
Fig. 1. Comparison of parvovirus B19 DNA load obtained by real-time PCR in plasma and red blood cells (RBCs) isolated from patients with parvovirus B19 infection at different stages of infection. Horizontal bars represent median values. The two-tailed p-values were determined by the Mann-whitney U-test.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 117 Overweight, Obesity and Related Factors in Kuwaiti Patients with Cancer: A Prospective Study (2006-1302-05)
S. Al-Awadi, O. Monjiminki and K. Kapila Kuwait University
Abstract Obesity has been linked to excess risk for many cancers. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between obesity and breast, colon or prostate cancers in Kuwaiti patients and evaluate different obesity-related factors and their associations with other variables in the patients. The study selected cancer patients and an age and sex-matched healthy control. Anthropometric and biochemical indices of obesity were measured in both groups. Our results showed that BMI was associated with breast and colon cancer. High levels of adiponectin were associated with breast, prostate and colon cancers. Other obesity-related factors such as insulin resistance and Hyperleptinemia were associated significantly with cancer. Estradiol and Testosterone were associated significantly with breast cancer. Our findings confirm the association between obesity and breast and colon cancers within the State of Kuwait. Evidence in this study suggests that metabolic changes associated with obesity could explain partially the association between obesity and development of cancer.
Project Description In this project, we evaluated the relationship Conclusions and Recommendations between a number of host of risk factors and degree of obesity and biochemical indices of metabolic The anthropometric and biochemical character- istics of the female and male subjects are pathways implicated in the development of cancer. summarized in Table 1. As far as the obesity Our main hypothesis was that obesity-associated related parameters are concerned, female cancer biomarkers may drive the development of insulin patients had significantly higher adiponectin resistance syndrome, and, subsequently, the concentrations than apparently healthy subjects. development of cancer. The study was performed In male cancer patients, levels of adiponectin on 245 patients with breast, prostate, and colon were significantly higher than in apparently cancer patients attending the Kuwait Cancer healthy subjects. Also, female cancer patients had Control Center. The diagnosis of cancer patients significantly higher insulin levels and significantly was made on histological grounds. Patients were higher HOMA index. Furthermore, males with recruited immediately after diagnosis and before cancer had significantly higher serum insulin levels treatment; 136 age and sex matched apparently and subsequently significantly higher HOMA index healthy subjects were enrolled from Kuwait Blood than control male subjects. On the other hand, Bank Center. Body weight (Kg) was measured obese subjects had significantly higher insulin in light clothing without shoes and height (cm) levels than non-obese subjects. Female cancer was measured as the distance from the top of patients had significantly higher leptin levels than the head to the bottom of the feet using a fixed female control subjects. Male cancer patients had stadiometer. Subsequently body mass index BMI significantly higher leptin levels than male control (Kg/m²) was calculated according to the following subjects. Furthermore, significant differences were formula: BMI=Weight (Kg)/Height (m²). Waist and observed in levels or leptin free index between hip circumference (cm) and the maximal gluteal control and patients groups of females and males protuberance were also taken. Biochemical respectively. Levels of leptin were significantly analysis included assessment of adipokines and higher in obese subjects than non-obese subjects. related factors using ELISA technique and other The mean ±SD of IGFI in apparently healthy factors (insulin, Insulin-like Growth Factor-I, Insulin female subjects was significantly higher than like Growth Factor Binding Protein-3 and sex the mean serum IGFI concentration in cancer steroids. Insulin Resistance was assessed using patients. IGFBP3 levels were significantly higher in HOMA index. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), total apparently healthy female subjects than in cancer cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) high density female subjects. Similar trend was observed lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and calculated in male subgroup of patients and controls. On low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were the other hand, subgroup of females and male measured using Beckman LX20 automated patients had significantly higher concentrations of analyzer. bioactive IGFI than apparently healthy subjects. Female cancer patients had significantly higher
118 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project testosterone levels than apparently healthy subjects. IGFI correlated negatively with BMI, female subjects. Male cancer patients had BIGFI was associated significantly with obesity significantly higher estradiol levels than male related cancers. Cancer patients had higher control subjects. However, male control subjects BIGFI levels than apparently healthy subjects. had significantly higher testosterone levels than Levels of IGFBP3 were negatively associated with male cancer patients. Levels of FSH and LH in cancer. Female cancer patients had significantly female cancer patients were significantly higher higher testosterone levels and estradiol levels than female control subjects. Similar trend was than female control subjects. Both testosterone seen in male subgroup of patients and controls. and estradiol levels were associated significantly Male and female patients groups had higher with breast cancer. Levels of testosterone in male SHBG levels than apparently healthy subjects cancer patients were lower than male control with no significant differences. BMI is associated subjects suggesting that they are hypogonadal significantly with breast and colon cancers but and had higher estradiol levels. Levels of not with prostate cancer. Adiponectin is negatively testosterone and estradiol were not associated correlated with obesity indices such as BMI and with prostate cancer in this study. waist circumference as well as obesity-related factors, mainly insulin levels and insulin resistance Acknowledgements estimated by HOMA index. Adiponectin correlated The team wishes to thank KFAS for the financial negatively with testosterone but positively with support and the Ministry of Health and Kuwait estradiol. There was no difference in levels of Cancer Centre for facilitating the mission and adiponectin in males and females in cancer providing the necessary facilities for the project. patients. We found that cancer patients had higher adiponectin levels than apparently healthy References subjects. High levels of adiponectin are associated Calle E and Kaaks R (2004). Overweight, obesity with cancer in this study. Insulin levels were and cancer: Epidemiological evidence and negatively and significantly associated with obesity proposed mechanisms. Nature. Rev., 4, 579- indices, such as, BMI and waist circumference. 591. High levels of insulin and insulin resistance were associated significantly with obesity-related Kumar, Abbas, Fausto (2005). Robbins & cancers. Female control subjects had high leptin Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. (7th levels than male control subjects. Cancer patients ed). Philadelphia, United States of America: had higher leptin levels than apparently healthy Elsevier Saunders. Table 1. Anthropometric and Biochemical Characteristics of Female and Male Subjects
FEMALES MALES
Control Patients Control Patients
Parameter Mean±SD 95% CI Mean±SD 95% CI p-Value Mean±SD 95% CI Mean±SD 95% CI p-Value
Age (yrs) 50.5±11.9 47.1-53.9 50.9±12.8 48.9-52.8 NS 53.5±11 51.2-55.9 56.3±11.8 53.3-59.3 NS
BMI (Kg/m2) 27.3±5.5 25.7-29 31.1±7.2 30-32.3 <0.001 28.2±5.5 27.7-29.9 28.8±4 26.8-29.5 NS Waist circumference 93.8±13.7 90-97.7 103±15.1 100.6-105.3 <0.0001 107.5±11.8 104.8-110 101.3±15.8 97.1-105.5 0.01 (cm) Waist:hip 0.85±0.07 0.83-0.87 0.93±0.11 0.93-0.91 <0.0001 0.95±0.1 0.93-0.98 0.98±0.1 0.94-1.02 NS
Systolic BP 130±17 125-135 129±20 126-132 NS 129±22 123.9-134 131.8±22 126-22 NS
Diastolic BP 81±11 77-84 80±10 79-82 NS 80.9±6 79.4-82 81.6±7 79.6-83 NS Plasma Gluc. 5.9±0.7 5.7-6.1 6.9±1.8 6.7-7.2 <0.0001 5.9±0.97 5.8-6.2 7.2±2 6.7-7.7 <0.0001 (mmol/L) Cholesterol 5.93±1.2 5.6-6.3 6.3±1.8 6-6.6 NS 5.9±1.1 5.6-6.2 6±2 5.5-6.6 NS (mmol/L) Triglycerides 1.3±0.7 1.1-1.5 2±1.1 1.9-2.3 0.006 2.67±2.2 2.3-3.1 2.29±1.4 1.88-2.7 <0.05 (mmol/L) HDL Chol. 1.6±0.3 1.5-1.7 1.3 0.6 1.2-1.4 0.004 1.2±0.3 1.11-1.2 1.29±0.6 1.1-1.5 NS (mmol/L) LDL Chol. 3.6±1 3.3-3.9 4±1.5 3.8-4.2 NS 3.5±1.2 3-3.37 3.7±1.5 3.2-4.11 NS (mmol/L) Urea 2.8±0.9 2.5-3.1 6.2±0.9 4.2-8.2 0.01 3.5±1 3.2-3.9 9±2.3 0.9-17.1 0.01 (mmol/L) Creatinine 30.5±11.4 37.3-43.8 77.9±4.3 69.1-86.6 <0.0001 56.3±16.4 51.8-60.8 71.1±18.1 64.9-77.2 <0.0001 (µmol/L)
BMI=Body Mass Index, HDL=High Density Lipoprotein, LDL=Low Density Lipoprotein
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 119 Role of Oxidative Stress and Hypercortisolemia in the Pathogenesis of Impaired Wound Healing in Diabetes Mellitus (2002-1302-06)
M. Bitar and F. Al-Mulla Kuwait University
Abstract Delayed wound healing in clinical and experimental diabetes is featured by excessive leukocytosis, reduced ECM deposition and inefficient re-epithelialization. Signaling pathways involving TGF- ß/Smads and TNF-α/NF-kB in macrophage/fibroblasts appear to play cardinal role in determining the rate and nature of wound healing. Detailed understanding of the cross-talk between these two systems within wound micro-environment is likely to serve as a significant milestone in the therapy of pathological tissue repair.
Project Progress Using non-obese genetic animal model of type 2 Smad7 and ß3-integrin was also documented in diabetes (Goto-Kakizaki, GK) in connection with the GK diabetic rats. A therapeutic intervention excisional skin wound healing model, we report that involving the blockade of TNF-α receptor retarded re-epithelialization, reduced granulation (e.g.,PEG-sTNF-R1) ameliorated many of the tissue formation, suppressed angiogenesis and afore-mentioned abnormalities associated with heightened state of inflammation, as exemplified the healing process during diabetes. To this by a shift in balance in favor of M1 (e.g.,TNF-α, end, the current data and those garnered from MIF, MIP) over M2 (e.g.,TGF-ß , VEGF, IL-ra the literatures indicate that TNF-R1 together with CD163, IL4) macrophage-driven markers, within Smad7 and ß3-intgein are relevant to impaired diabetic wound micro-environment are due to wound healing during diabetes and suggest predominantly augmented TNF-α/NFkB- and/or that down-modulation of these regulators may repressed TGF-ß1/Smads-mediated responses. represent a potential new tool for the treatment of An upregulation in wound expression of the chronic, surgical or accidental wounds. negative regulators of TGF-ß1-signaling, including
Day 0 Day 3 Day 7 Day 14
C
D
PEG-s TNF-R1
Fig. 1. PEG-s TNF-R1 promotes wound closure and accelerates re-epithelialization in diabetic skin excision wound healing model. Photographs depict the macroscopic kinetic analysis of wound sites with the results representing three independent experiments, each of which contains N=4/group.
120 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Adenylyl Cyclase Expression and Activity in Normal and Diabetic States (2003-1302-01)
M. Bitar and F. Al-Mulla Kuwait University
Abstract Endothelial dysfunction is a key triggering event in the development of cardiovascular diseases and the current study explored this phenomenon in the context of inflammation, apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) during chronic diabetes. Our data highlight a unifying mechanism whereby HSOS, through an induction of NF-kB activity, together with an impairment in PI3K/Akt pathway favors pro-inflammatory/ pro-apoptotic diabetic vascular milieu that culminate in the onset of endothelial dysfunction.
Project Progress α-Lipoic acid (ALA, 50 mg/kg/day,ip) and of TNF-α, myeloperoxidase) in connection with Wortmannin (WM, 200 µg/kg/day, miniosmotic increased Caspase-based apoptotic cell death and pump) were administered for thirty days to Goto heightened state of oxidative stress appeared to Kakizaki (Diab) rats, a genetic model of non- exist in cardiovascular tissues retrieved from diabetic obese type 2 diabetes. Corresponding control rats. An assessment of NF-kB dynamics in diabetic animals (Cont) received vehicle alone. Key vessels revealed augmented NF-kB-DNA binding indices of inflammation (e.g., TNF-α, fractalkine, activity. Most of the afore-mentioned cardiovascular- myeloperoxidase), apoptosis (e.g. Caspases) based diabetic abnormalities, including reduced and oxidative stress (oxidant output, antioxidant activities of phosphatidylinositol, 3-kinase (PI3K) capacity) were assessed using western blotting, and Akt kinase were ameliorated, following chronic real-time PCR and immunofluoresence-based ALA therapy. WM, a PI3K inhibitor, given to GK rats techniques. A state of chronic low-grade negated the anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic inflammation (e.g., increased mRNA/protein levels actions of ALA.
TNF-α NF-κB Caspase 3 250 * * * 200 ** ** ** 150
100 (% Control) 50
0 Cont Diab Diab+A LA Diab+A LA +WM Inflammatory Apoptotic / P roc es s es
Fig 1: WM nullified LA anti-inflammatory/ anti-apoptotic effects in diabetic aortic tissues. * Significantly different from corresponding control values at P ≤ 0.05. ** Significantly different from corresponding diabetic or ALA/WM-treated diabetic values at P ≤ 0.05.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 121 Assessment of Prevalence and Etiology of Blindness and Visual Impairment in Kuwaiti Population (2003-1302-03)
N. Sadeq, A. Al-Abdulrazzak and A. Zamzam Ministry of Health
Abstract Vision is an integral part for normal functioning of human life. The global initiative known as, “Vision 2020, Right to Sight”, established by WHO, motivated us to conduct a study to estimate the prevalence and causes of blindness in Kuwaiti population. Stratified random selection procedure was adopted to select families from all health areas in the six governorates. The sample was examined by two professional teams. The data collected for analysis will provide the guidance to identify the challenges facing eye health care in Kuwait and the opportunity to address them for the proper action to be taken by Ministry of Health to improve eye health service.
Project Progress As the assessment of the participants was The senior researchers discussed the outcome, completed, the survey entered into the next phase, taking into consideration the paramount social the demographic (Table 1) and clinical data had to and clinical implications of the study results, and be processed into workable database. decided to request data re-entry. Qualified IT staff was invited and trained individually. While The contents of the paper files were transferred data were entered, senior researchers provided into an Access database. In the process, all files clarifications and support. The final database was with missing data were reviewed individually by re-assessed for internal consistency and verbal the senior researchers in the team and attempts diagnoses were corrected and standardized in a were made to fill up the demographic description, uniform manner into appropriate entities according visual acuity and diagnosis before further analysis. to the International Classification of Diseases – Additionally, participants who did not co-operate 10th edition. satisfactorily during the examination, especially children and elderly persons, were contacted and All files of participants with ‘best corrected visual invited to Al Bahar Eye Center for re-evaluation. acuity’ less than 0.3, belonging to ‘low vision’ or ‘blindness’ categories, were reviewed by the senior Once the primary data entry was complete, a researchers and final diagnosis was confirmed. data quality assurance evaluation was done; 10% random sample was selected from the database The descriptive phase of the analysis is and compared to the content of the corresponding underway, the demographic, social and economic files. It revealed incorrect numerical entries, characteristics of the sample, systemic co- mixed diagnostic descriptions and coding in morbidity, binocular and monocular impaired high proportion, lacking unbiased processing or vision and blindness, and leading causes of eye reliable outcome. disorders and handicap.
Table 1. Demographic Distribution of Samples
Population (Kuwaiti) Sample GOVERNORATE Count % Count % CAPITAL 211551 20.7 525 10.6 HAWALLI 173079 17.0 763 15.4 AHMADI 213079 20.8 1456 29.4 JAHRA 113748 11.1 735 14.9 FARWANIA 191250 18.7 691 14.0 MUBARAK KABEER 118567 11.6 775 15.7 NOT DEFINED 977 0.1 0 0 TOTAL 1023251 100 4945 100
122 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Normal Cardiac Reference Ranges for the Pre-Term Babies (2003-1302-05)
L. Abushaban¹, N. Al-Naqeeb², M. Sabri² and Jebaraj R.¹ Kuwait University¹ and Ministry of Health²
Abstract Echocardiography has been practised for the past 50 to 60 years as a primary mode of investigation to evaluate the anatomy and function of the heart and yet there are only a few studies which describe a normal premature baby’s heart, which differs significantly from a term neonate’s heart and its transition to a mature neonate. We endeavored to establish these normal reference values.
Three hundred-and-twenty-five premature babies have been recruited for this study so far. Most of the babies were from Al Adan Hospital. An ECG, 2D echocardiogram, Colour Doppler assessment of the blood flow through the cardiac valves and other vessels and a minimum of 3 blood pressure readings at approximately weekly intervals were undertaken and the stored information is being analysed now.
Project Progress The pre-term baby is not a small-sized neonate, The minimum gestational age at the time of just as a child is not a small-sized adult. This has enrollment to the study was 26 weeks and the not been studied well and there are not many maximum was 36 weeks. Some of the very pre- serial follow-ups till they grow up to be term by mature babies had to be excluded after one or conceptional age. We undertook to serially follow- two echo cardiograms as they became critically up a cohort of these preterm babies in our study. ill. Some ill babies were included again as they recovered promptly from their illness. Three-hundred-and-twenty-five pre-term babies were recruited and studied. Babies who were Fig 1. illustrates the number of echocardiographic critically ill with significant cardiac malformations observations at different gestational ages. It is and detectable syndromes were excluded from evident that most of the echocardiograms were the study. They were studied at weekly intervals between 31 and 34 weeks of gestation. till they reached term (36 weeks). A total of 480 echocardiograms have been undertaken, All the ECGs and the echocardiograms have been along with anthropometric and blood pressure stored in DICOM format and are being analysed. measurements.
Fig. 1. Gestational age at the time of observation.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 123 Determinants of Micro and Macro-vascular Complications of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Kuwaiti Patients in Relation to the Genotypic, Phenotypic and Biochemical Characteristics (2004-1302-03)
N. Abdella Kuwait University
Abstract The most frequent chronic complication of diabetes is atherosclerotic coronary heart disease (CHD). Familial aggregation of CHD is well known but the familial factor may be explained by dietary, smoking or other habits that are common to members of a family - communicated rather than inherited. Type 2 diabetes mellitus represents a paradigm for the study of the interplay between environmental risk factors and the multiple genetic factors that confer increased risk of CHD. Non-diabetic relatives of patients with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are highly susceptible to develop diabetes and CHD. The current study is exploring the risk factors that are associated with this increased susceptibility. Chronic low-grade inflammation has been postulated to be an important factor in the development of insulin resistance, diabetes and CHD.
Project Progress This project evaluated whether T2DM probands CRP showed similar correlations with these and their first-degree relatives (FDR) differ in variables. T2DM and FDR had significantly inflammatory markers and insulin resistance from higher C3, CRP, BMI, WC, Insulin, HOMA-R and control subjects without a family history of diabetes significantly lower %S and HDL-Cholesterol than and also the associations of the inflammatory the control subjects. However, although T2DM markers with metabolic abnormalities in the patients had significantly higher C3, CRP, BMI and different groups. Studies were undertaken on WC than their normoglycemic FDR, the differences 172 non-diabetic FDR of 81 T2DM probands in %S and HOMA-R were not statistically significant. (these subjects were nested from a total of 350 Partial correlation analysis after correcting for probands (80 M and 270 F), 540 first degree WC abolished the associations of C3 and CRP relatives (220 M and 320 F) who were recruited with insulin, %S, HOMA-R and lipid parameters so far) and 32 healthy non-diabetic control except Triglycerides which remained significant subjects who were matched for age, sex, and BMI. (partial r = 0.25; p = 0.005). We conclude that Fasting complement C3, CRP (high sensitivity assay), insulin, glucose, and full lipid profile were normoglycemic FDR of T2DM patients were determined. Insulin sensitivity (%S) and insulin already more insulin-resistant than controls resistance (HOMA-R) were assessed using the because of obesity-associated increases in C3 homeostasis model assessment formula. When and CRP. This suggests that in subjects at high the cohort was examined as a whole, C3 showed risk of T2DM, the insulin-resistant state is related significant (all p < 0.01) correlations with CRP to obesity-dependent low-grade inflammation. (r = 0.41), BMI (r = 0.41), waist circumference (WC) (r = 0.47), insulin (r = 0.27), HOMA-R (r = 0.29), The next phase of the project will further evaluate %S (r = -0.32), Total cholesterol (TC) (r = 0.42), LDL these risk factors in relation to other phenotypic Cholesterol (r = 0.29) and Triglycerides (r = 0.30). and genetic characteristics that are being studied.
Fig. 1. and 2. Diabetic patients and their first degree relatives had higher levels of inflammatory markers compared to controls.
124 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project The Role of Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate (cAMP) in the Regulation of IgE-Dependant Activation of Human Monocyctes: Implication for the Treatment of Allergic Diseases with cAMP-Elevating Drugs (2005-1302-03)
C. Ezeamuzie and R. Al-Attiyah Kuwait University
Abstract The beta-2 adrenoceptor agonist – salbutamol and theophylline are among the major bronchodilators used in the treatment of asthma. They act by increasing the intracellular level of cAMP in bronchial smooth muscles but the latter is believed to have some additional anti-inflammatory effects. The purpose of this project, at this stage, was to determine the interaction of both drugs on the release of cytokine in human blood monocytes and the molecular mechanism involved. Purified monocytes were treated in culture with theophylline or salbutamol or a combination of both drugs and then stimulated with Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The generated TNF-α, IL-6 and cAMP were determined by the relevant immunoassays. Results obtained so far show that salbutamol significantly inhibited LPS-induced TNF-α release. In contrast, the same drug significantly enhanced the release of IL-6. Both effects were potentiated in the presence of a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, rolipram, thus suggesting the involvement of cAMP. Interestingly, theophylline (50 µM) effectively blocked the release of both TNF-α and IL-6, and when used in combination with salbutamol was able to prevent the IL-6-enhancing effect of the latter. The interaction was shown to be at the mRNA level. These studies suggest that in the treatment of asthma with ß2-agonists, their undesirable IL-6-enhancing effect can be avoided by combining them with low dose theophylline.
Project Progress Work done in this section of the project focused inhibited the release of both TNF-α and IL-6 in on the interaction between two clinically used anti- a cAMP-independent manner. (C) When used asthma drugs (salbutamol and theophylline) on in combination, the inhibitory effects of the two the release of inflammatory mediators following drugs on TNF-α release were additive. More LPS-induced activation of human monocytes, importantly, theophylline prevented salbutamol- and to determine the molecular mechanism induced enhancement of IL-6 release. (D) of this interaction. Purified human monocytes The effect on mRNA expression for the two were pre-treated with the drugs either alone or cytokines (figure 1), closely reflected the effect in combination and stimulated with LPS for 24h. on cytokine protein release, that is the inhibitory The released cytokines, TNF-α and IL-6, as well as effect of both drugs on mRNA expression for the intracellular levels of cAMP were measured by TNF-α were additive, while on IL-6 they were ELISA. Expression of mRNA for the two cytokines antagonistic. These results provide evidence that was determined by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. salbutamol inhibits the release of TNF-α, while at So far, the following findings have been made: the same time enhancing that of IL-6 but that the (A) Salbutamol caused a statistically significant undesirable IL-6-enhancing effect can be avoided inhibition of LPS-induced TNF-α release but also by combining it with low dose theophylline. The enhanced the release of IL-6. (B) At clinically- interaction of both drugs appears to occur at the relevant concentrations (10–50 µM), theophylline level of mRNA expression.
db-cAMP (50 μM) ------+ (A) db-cAMP (5(C)0 μM) ------+ db-cAMP (50 μM) ------+ Dexa (0.1μM) --- - -+ - db-cAMP (50 μM) ------+ dbD-ecxAaM(P0. 1(5μ0M μ) M ) ------+ - - + dbdbdb-cAMP-cAMPcAMP (50( 5(500 μ M)MµM)) ------+ Dexa (0.1μM) ------+ - Dexa (0.1μSMa)l b ( 1--- μM) ---- -+ - - + + - -- dbdbDdb-cAMP-cAMPceAxaM (P0 .(50(15 (50μ0M μ )µM)M)M ) ------+- -+ S alb (1 μM) --+ - + -- db-cAMP (50 μM) ------+ DexaDexaDTehx e(0.1ao(0.1( 0(5 .µM)10μ μM)MM) ) ------++- + -- - S alb (1 μM) ---+ + -- TheSo a(5lb0 (μ1M μ)M ) ------+ ++ - + ---- DexaSDexaDaelbx (0.1a ( 1((0.10 μ .µM)1Mμ)M)M ) ------+- +- --+ - Salb (1 µM) Dexa (0.1μM) ------+ - L PSalbSSal b(1 (1( μ1g μ/M)Mm)l ) - - -+ ++ -+++++ - - Theo (50 μM) --+ - + -- L PTSh (e1o μ (g5/0m μl)M ) - ---+ + ++++++-- TSalbheSalbSoa (1(l5b 0µM) (1( 1μ MμM)M) ) -- - - +- -+ + + -- - - TheoTheo ((5050 μM)M) - - - + + - - S alb (1 μM) ---+ + -- Theo (50 µM) L PS (1 μg/ml) - + + ++++++++ L PS (1 μg/ml) - + + ++++ L PTheoTheoTSh (e1o (50μ (50(g5 /0µM)m μlM)M) ) - - +- ++ ++++ - + - - LPSLPSL PI SL(1-6 ((1 1µg/ml) μg/ml)g/ml) - + + + + + + Theo (50 μM) --+ - + -- IL -6 LPSL PS (1 (1(1 µg/ml) μg/ml)g/ml) - + + + + + + L PS (1 μg/ml) - + + +++++ +++ ß-acItLin-6 ß-actin TNF -α TNF -α ILIL -6 ß-actin ß-actin ß-actin TNFTNF -α ß-actinactin Fig.1. The interaction of theophylline TNF -α ß-actinactin ß-actin and salbutamol on the 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 expression of mRNA for TNF-α (B) (D) 0.750.75 0.75 1.5 (A&B) and IL-6 (C&D) in LPS- 1.51.5 ** 0.75 ) ) 0.75 1.5 stimulated monocyctes. ) ) n n 1.5 i i ) ) A A n n t t n n i i ) ) A A N N i i c c A A t t t t n 0.500.50 n N N R R ) ) i 1.0 i c c N A N A c c A A t t ) ) -Actin)- -Actin)- 0.50 n n R R R R 1.01.0 A A N N A c c m m i i n n ) ) A A - - - mRNA mRNA - Actin t t i i ) ) A A / / R R A A m m n n
* m m t t
N N -Actin)- -Actin)- i i c c -Actin n n mRNA
A A / / N N t t ß / / i i 6 6 c c
m m - - A 0.50 A 6 6 t t R R - - - -
1. 0 A N N A c c - - / 0.50 / / R R
α 1.0 F F α A N N A - - c c 6 6 6 6 L L - - F F 6 6 L L R R IL-6I mRNA IL-6I mRNA A A ------m m α I I - - R R N N - A A F F
m m ( ( N N L L - - F F / / *
m m L L I 0.5I TNF- T TNF- T / /
I I m T T N N 0.250.25 / /
(IL-6/ ( (IL-6/ ( N N * (TNF-( (TNF-( 6 6 / / - - *** 6 6 0.50.5 T T IL-6/ 6 ------T T 6 6 - -
0.25 - - - TNF- F F *** - - L L ( ( F F F F *** L L I I L TNF- F F I I L L I N N I I ( ( *** N N N N ( ( N N 0.5 T T T T 0.5 T 0T .25 T T ( ( 0.25 ( ( 0.0 0.000.00 0 0.00.0 0 T he o S alb S alb De xa db-cAMP SalbS alb (50 M) (1 M) + (0.1 M) (50 M) 00 00 TheoT hTheoe o SalbSSalbalb Salb DeDDee xax xa a db-cAMPadb-cAMPdb-cAMP 0 0 Theo SalbS aSalblb SalbSSalbalb DDee xaxx aa db-cAMPadb-cAMPdb-cAMP 0.00 0 0 TheoT he o T he o (50((50µM)50 M)M) (1((1µ1 M)MM)) ++ (0.1((0.1µM)0.1 M)M) (50µM) (50(50 M)M) (1(1 M)M) ++ (0.1(0.1 M)M) ((5050 M)M) 0 0 T he o S alb S alb De xa db-cAMP0.0 (50((50µM)50 M)M) (1µ M) (0.1µM) (50µM) TheoTTheohe o 0.0 TheoTTheohe o (50 M) + (0.1 M) (50 M) 0 T he o S a LlbPS S alb De xa db-cAMP 0.00 0.00 (1 M) 00 0 T he o S alb S alb De xa db-cAMP S alb T he o (50 M) (1( 25M0) ng / m +l) (0.1 M) (50 M) 0 0 T he o TShaelLPSLboPS DSealxba Ddebx-caAMPdb-cAMP (50 M) (1 M )LLPSPS + (0.1 M) (50 M) 0 0 S alb T he o (50 M) (250250 nng/ml)g/m +l) ( 0 +.1 M) ( 0(.510 MM)) (250(250 Tng/ml)nhge/mo l) ((510 MM)) (1 M)L PS (50 M) T he o T he o (250 ng/m l) L PS L PS (250 ng/(m25l)0 ng/m l) L PS L PS (250 ng/m(2l5)0 ng/m l)
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 125 Value of Surveillance Cultures and Detection of Antigens (1 - 3)-ß-D-Glucan and DNA in Early Diagnosis and Therapeutic Monitoring of Invasive Candidiasis and Aspergillosis in Immunocompromised Patients (2005-1302-05)
E. Mokaddas1, Z. Khan1, A. Musthafa1, S. Ahmad1, R. Pandita2, S. Al-Shemmari1, N. Behbehani1, N. Nampoory2 and M. Bouhamra2 Kuwait University1 and Ministry of Health2
Abstract Despite advances in antifungal therapy, mortality due to invasive mycoses remains high (38-90%) primarily due to difficulties in establishing an early diagnosis. Although demonstration of the fungus in infected tissues is the gold standard, the performance of invasive procedures may not be feasible due to extremely poor or thrombocytopenic state of the host. To overcome these limitations, attention has been focused to develop alternative diagnostic approaches, such as detection of (1-3)-ß-D-glucan (BDG), galactomannan (GM), Candida mannan (CM) or DNA in serum samples or other body fluids of the patient suspected for invasive mycoses. In this study, we have evaluated the diagnostic efficacy of these markers. The Aspergillus species-specific DNA was detected in 14%, GM in 19%, BDG in 30%, Candida species-specific DNA in 14% and Candida mannan in 4% of the serum samples that were tested. The presence or absence of these surrogate markers in serum specimens helped us in establishing or excluding diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis or candidiasis.
Project Progress In the present study, we have evaluated the In summary, 31 serum samples were positive for efficacy of BDG, GM, CM or Aspergillus/Candida all the three markers, that is, Aspergillus DNA, GM species-specific DNA by nested PCR (nPCR) in and BDG, 22 were positive for BDG and GM, 21 serum of patients at risk of developing invasive were positive for GM and Aspergillus DNA and mycoses. The methodology for specific detection 15 were positive for BDG and Aspergillus DNA. In of Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus terreus and addition 69, 40 and 34 sera samples were positive Aspergillus flavus DNA was established from grown only for BDG, GM and Aspergillus DNA by nPCR, cultures and seeded specimens by conventional respectively. CM was detected in 10 (4%) out of PCR. The analytical sensitivity of the PCR assays 238 serum samples and Candida DNA in 34 (14%) for Aspergillus spp. was about 10 genome copies. out of 238 serum samples that were tested. The GM and BDG levels were determined by Our surveillance studies on Candida colonization commercially available kits procured from Bio among cancer patients revealed that Candida. Rad, France and Fungitell, Associates of Cape dubliniensis, which exhibits close genetic and Cod, U.S.A., respectively. phenotypic relationship with Candida albicans, has Of the 797 sera samples received from different an overall prevalence of 5% in clinical specimens hospitals Aspergillus fumigatus-specific DNA was originating from respiratory/oral tract. Since the detected in 74 and A. terreus-specific DNA in 27 specimens originating from other anatomic sites with an overall positivity of 14% (Table 1). GM was were uniformly negative, it appears that this detected in 114 (19%) of 594 serum samples and species has a preference to colonize respiratory/ BDG in 137 (30%) of 454 serum samples tested. oral tract of cancer patients. Table 1. Summary of the Results of the Serum Samples Investigated for the Detection of Aspergillus DNA, Galactomannan and 1-3-ß-D-Glucan No. of serum samples positive for: Hospitals DNA GM BDG Organ Transplant Center 35/242 (14) 21/193 (11) 38/124 (31) Paediatric Cancer Ward 15/193 (7) 18/122 (15) 17/71 (24) Kuwait Cancer Center 7/83(8) 11/72(15) 12/50 (24) Other Hospitals 44/279 (15) 64/207 (31) 70/209 (33) Total 101/797(14) 114/594(19) 137/454 (30) GM = Galactomannan and BDG = 1-3-ß-D-Glucan. Figure in parenthesis denote percentage.
126 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Association of Diabetes Mellitus with Viral Infection in the State of Kuwait (2006-1302-03)
W. Chehadeh¹, A. Ben-Nakhi¹, M. Al-Arouj², T. Almuaili², O. Al-Mutairi², N. Abdella¹,² and W. Al-Nakib¹ ¹ Kuwait University and ² Ministry of Health
Abstract Previous studies have reported an association between hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and Type 2 diabetes (T2D). In Kuwait, we reported that 5.3% of T2D patients had evidence of HCV infection compared to 1.6% of healthy subjects. Most of the HCV sequences detected in T2D patients and control subjects were of genotype 4. To investigate whether high HCV viral load precipitates the development of diabetes- associated complications, HCV RNA isolated from clinical samples was quantified by real-time RT-PCR technique. The median HCV RNA concentration in the group of HCV seropositive subjects, who had no glucose abnormalities, was not significantly different from that in the group of HCV/T2D patients (p= 0.13). Similarly, the median HCV RNA concentration in patients who developed diabetes-associated complications, was not significantly different from that in patients with no complications (p=0.15). These findings suggest that HCV viral load is not associated with high risk of diabetes complications.
Project Progress The study population consisted of 305 patients of genotype 4. Furthermore, there was no with Type 2 diabetes, and 300 control subjects. significant difference between the proportions Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection was assessed of HCV genotypes detected in T2D patients and by testing for serum HCV-specific antibodies those previously reported in HCV cohort with either and confirmed by detection of HCV RNA using glucose abnormalities (p= 0.53) or normal fasting nested RT-PCR. HCV genotyping was determined plasma glucose levels (p= 0.71). The Median HCV using two methods: the first method consisted RNA concentration in non-diabetic subjects was 3.4 of Versant hybridization Line Probe HCV assay x 105 copies/ml, while in the group of T2D patients, (LiPA, Siemens). The second method was based the Median HCV viral load was 4.6 x 106 copies/ on dideoxy chain-termination sequencing using ml. There was no significant difference in the HCV the CEQ 8000 sequencer (Beckman Coulter). RNA load between T2D patients and patients with Real-time Reverse Transcription-PCR for the normal fasting plasma glucose levels (p= 0.13). To quantification of HCV RNA was carried out on investigate whether high viral load is associated with LightCycler 2.0 instrument. complications of diabetes such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular and kidney diseases, In the group of healthy subjects, three were HCV HCV RNA concentrations in T2D patients, who had seropositive, wherein two subjects were HCV RNA diabetes complications, were compared to those positive, while in the group of T2D patients, 21 in T2D patients with no diabetes complications. patients were seropositive, out of which 15 patients As shown in Figure 1, the difference in HCV RNA had evidence of HCV viraemia. Most of HCV RNA concentrations between the two groups of patients detected in T2D-patients and control subjects were was not statistically significant (p=0.15).
Fig. 1. Individual distribution of HCV viral load between T2D patients with complications of diabetes, and T2D patients with no complications. Bars represent the median HCV viral load.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 127 High Resolution Mapping and Localization of Metastasis Suppressor Genes in Colorectal Cancer (2006-1302-07)
F. Al-Mulla Kuwait University
Abstract Colorectal carcinoma is a common malignancy. There has been substantial progress made in the last few years in understanding the genetic basis of colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. However, the genetic mechanisms responsible for the metastatic phenotype, especially in some early staged colorectal cancers, remain poorly studied. In this project we will identify and map metastasis suppressor regions and find new areas of interest by high resolution microarray-CGH. Single nucleotide polymorphysim (SNP) analysis will also be performed to corroborate and further refine our findings. Samples from 150 patients with follow-up records for 10 years are used in this study.
Project Progress One hundred and fifty cases of Formalin Fixed Data from different samples can be pooled Paraffin Embedded (FFPE) CRC tissue from together to identify areas of common aberrations. patients and matching normal tissues are used in Initial attempt to pool the genetic data from 6 this study. The CRC for these patients were graded CRC cases with aggressive colorectal cancer, and staged accurately. DNA was extracted from showed small areas of interesting aberrations in 150 cases of FFPE tissue and the corresponding chromosome 11p and 20p in 50% of the cases. normal tissue. Sixty-eight cases (34 cases where Another advantage of this technique is that we the patients died within 5 years of diagnosis and can examine each chromosome individually for 34 cases where the patients survived for more aberrations. The data generated from pooling than 10 years after initial diagnosis) were selected different cases together is more substantial when for High resolution aCGH microarray. aCGH was the number of cases being pooled is larger. optimized and performed on 15 cases using high Therefore, we will attempt to examine the recurrent resolution 244K human microarrays from Agilent areas with aberrations after processing more (Figure 1). The Agilent Microarray CGH platform patient samples. has 8.9 KB overall median probe spacing and thus offers an excellent opportunity to examine Microarray aCGH will be performed on the chromosomal aberrations/copy number changes remaining cases that had been selected. SNP at high resolutions. analysis will then be performed on selected cases using SNP 6.0 Microarray chips from Affymetrix.
Fig. 1. aCGH hybridization on an Agilent 244K (244,000 probes). Colorectal cancer FFPE DNA was labeled with Cy5 dye (Red) and normal DNA was labeled with Cy3 dye (Green). Inset shows a zoomed area of hybridization.
128 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Influence of Garlic (Allium Sativum) and Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) Compared to Aspirin (Acetyl Salicyclic Acid) on Diabetic Cardiovascular Complications, Involvement of Eicosanoids in Pathogenesis (2007-1302-04)
M. Thomson, M. Ali, K. Al-Qattan, J. Al-Hassan and S. Al-Sawan Kuwait University
Abstract Diabetes is very prevalent worldwide, including Kuwait and other GCC countries. Treatment of diabetes to prevent chronic complications such as cardiovascular disease and nephrophathy will alleviate much suffering and cost. The use of functional foods represents a reasonable avenue for diabetes treatment. This research project seeks to demonstrate that in STZ-induced diabetic rats, treatment with garlic and ginger ameliorates some of the clinical parameters of diabetes such as proteinuria, hyperalbuminemia, hypercholesterolembia, hypertriglyceridemia and hyperglycemia.
Project Progress Experimental diabetes was induced in rats by significantly in diabetic rats compared to normal, injection with streptozotocin (STZ); rats were ginger-treated and garlic-treated rats. In addition, considered diabetic when their fasting blood total urine creatinine and protein were elevated in sugar rose to 300 mg/ml, and diabetic rats diabetic animals compared to normal rats, and both were divided into four groups: control diabetic, garlic and ginger treatment resulted in significant garlic-treated diabetic, ginger-treated diabetic decrease. Diabetic rats lost weight during the and aspirin-treated diabetic. During the 8-week experiment, and increased water and food intake as treatment period, blood glucose, body weight, well as urine output compared to normal controls. and food and water intake, urine output and total Ginger treatment of diabetic animals resulted in urine protein and creatinine were assessed. Total a modest weight gain, but decreased food and serum protein, creatinine, cholesterol, triglyceride, water intake and urine output. In contrast, although insulin and antioxidant levels were determined the water and food consumption of garlic-treated at 8 weeks. Whole blood glucose and serum diabetic rats was close to diabetic controls, these creatinine, cholesterol and triglycerides were rats exhibited a slight weight increase and similar significantly elevated in STZ-induced diabetic rats, to ginger-treated rats, urine output was significantly and were significantly lowered by both ginger and decreased compared to diabetic controls. Aspirin- garlic treatments. Aspirin treatment of diabetic treated diabetic animals exhibited no change in animals significantly decreased serum triglyceride urine protein and creatinine, body weight, water and and cholesterol levels but had little effect on blood food intake and urine output, compared to diabetic glucose. In contrast, total serum protein decreased control animals.
1st Week 5th Week 30 8th Week 25 20 15 (mg/dl) 10 5
Concentration of Glucose 0 Normal Diabetic Ginger Garlic Aspirin Control Control Treated Treated Treated
Fig. 1. Effect of ginger, garlic and asprin on blood glucose in STZ-induced diabetic rats.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 129 Domestic Violence in Kuwait: Prevalence and Effects of Domestic Violence Against Women in Kuwait (2007-1302-01)
M. Zahid Kuwait University
Abstract Domestic Violence (DV) is one of the world’s most pervasive social and serious health problem that crosses race, culture, ethnicity, socio-economic status, religion, and sexual orientation. One in four women in the UK experiences violence at some time in her life, while two women per week are killed by their current or ex-partner. American studies have found lifetime prevalence to be between 10%- 35%. Twenty-five to fifty percent of women suicides are attempted to escape the battering syndrome. The victims of DV are known to seek help from a variety of clinical facilities, including the emergency departments (ED), primary health clinics and psychiatric and gynecology/obstetric clinics, which have all been identified as potential sites for detection and prevention of DV. The reported rates of female DV victims attending the ED have varied from 11% to 37%, although the subject has been widely addressed in the western countries and adequate policies formulated to deal with it. DV is not yet considered a major concern in the Muslim and the Arab countries. Only a handful of studies, mostly limited to population surveys, have been carried out in the Muslim countries. Importantly, few, if any, well-designed studies have addressed this important subject in these countries. This study is aimed at measuring the prevalence rates, degree, and the effects of DV among the female ED attendees in Kuwait. The study will be carried out in all the six ED’s across the entire country. The Revised Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2) will be used to measure the severity of violence while its effects will be measured by administering a six- item questionnaire. The items of the questionnaire have been derived from the most commonly reported effects of violence.
Musculoskeletal Conditions across the Lifespan in Kuwait: Contributing to the Bone and Joint Decade Initiative through a Kuwait-Canada Research Partnership (2007-1302-02)
E. Al-Hamdan Fawsec Educational Company
Abstract The overall aim of the Bone and Joint Decade (BJD) 2000-2010 global initiative is to raise awareness of the system-wide impact of musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. In late October 2005, the BJD World Network Conference was held in Ottawa, Canada where it was reported that MSK issues are now being highlighted across the world. The primary goal of this collaborative research is to assemble a multi-disciplinary team of Canadian and Kuwaiti researchers in order to conduct a ‘gap’ analysis. A gap analysis is a tool used to systematically identify the difference between the current status and a desired outcome. Gap analysis methodology was once used only in business literature; however, over a period of time, its applicability has been successfully used in research projects such as this research proposal. In terms of this research, the gap analysis will assess the degree to which BJD goals have been (or are being) met in Kuwait. The expected outcomes of the gap analysis will be to: 1) reveal the extent to which Kuwait targets the BJD goals; 2) identify the critical next steps that must be implemented for Kuwait to more fully meet BJD goals; and 3) set in place a research agenda which addresses the important issues of musculoskeletal (MSK) health in Kuwait. The secondary objective is to use the results of the ‘gap’ analysis to design a multi-year operational research proposal that will be submitted to the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). Ultimately, the aim of this current grant application is to identify the actions required to ensure that Kuwait participates fully in this important global initiative and increase information regarding MSK health and wellness. Although there is a growing knowledge base, yet there appears to be many areas and conditions (including MSK conditions) in the health care in Kuwait that need to be surveyed. Further, though the service delivery systems are robust and efficient, yet there appears to be few community and hospital research infrastructure and there is need to systematically
130 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project identify, collect and analyze data to be used to address the BJD goals. Preliminary work has already taken place to identify the key researchers for this initiative. The Project Leader is the official Kuwaiti representative of BJD and has identified senior level Kuwaiti and Canadian researchers committed to collaborating with an international team in conducting the ‘gap’ analysis and in examining the overall status of MSK research in Kuwait. There will be three primary outcomes from this project. First, the results of the ‘gap’ analysis will detail the prioritized and critical steps needed to ensure that Kuwait fully participates in the BJD initiative. Second, the Kuwait-Canada team will use the collected data, in order to design a multi- year operation plan that will follow the steps identified through the ‘gap analysis’. Third, a conference will be hosted in order to disseminate the information collected and highlight the issues of MSK conditions in Kuwait.
Fluoride Intake from Fluids Ingested by Children Aged 1 - 9 Years in the State of Kuwait (2007-1302-06)
E. Akpata Kuwait University
Abstract Fluoride exposure from drinking water is a proven public health measure against dental caries. However, excessive fluoride ingestion during the period of tooth mineralization may result in dental fluorosis. Daily consumption of water and other fluids is a significant source of ingested fluoride, and this appears to be unknown among children in Kuwait.
The project aims to: i) determine daily fluid consumption by children aged 1-9 years in Kuwait; ii) estimate the proportion of fluid intake among the children that consists of plain water; iii) determine fluoride intake from the fluids ingested by the children; iv) determine 24-hour urinary fluoride content among children aged 2-9 years; and v) correlate Body Mass Index (BMl)-for-age with daily fluid consumption.
A questionnaire (interview) will be administered to 2,000 mothers randomly selected from households in Kuwait to obtain a 24-hour recall of the volume of water and other fluids ingested by their children aged 1 to 9 years. The questionnaire will be administered twice in winter and twice in summer. The children’s body weights and heights will be measured and BMI-for-age will be calculated. In addition, the mothers will be requested to ensure that the children drink water for a 24-hour period, exclusively from 1.5-liter bottled water supplied to the mothers. From the volume of water left in the bottle after 24 hours, daily water consumption by the children will be calculated. Fluoride concentration in household drinking water, soft drinks and other beverages will be measured by the ion specific electrode method. In the case of non- clear fluids, appropriate preparation of the fluid will be carried out before fluoride measurement by the ion-specific electrode. From the fluoride concentrations and daily fluid consumption, daily fluoride intake from water and other fluids per kilogram body weight will be calculated, In addition, spot urine samples will be collected from the children aged 2-9 years and the fluoride content of 24-hour urinary fluoride will be calculated from the fluoride/creatinine ratio. Knowledge of daily fluoride intake from ingested fluid will aid in assessing the risk of dental fluorosis among Kuwaiti children. It will also be useful for those who wish to use fluoride in preventive dentistry. In addition, this knowledge will be helpful, should a decision be made to re-introduce artificial water fluoridation in Kuwait. Furthermore, information from the urinary fluoride analysis will facilitate the monitoring of fluoride ingestion from artificial fluoridation of public water supplies.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 131 World Health Survey for the Gulf Nations: State of Kuwait Specific (2008-1302-01)
A. Khalaf Ministry of Health
Abstract The World Health survey is conducted by the World Health Organization. It is a multi-national survey that aims to cover the health information system in various countries from all the regions of the world. These surveys play an important role in national health information system. It assesses key outcome measures that are of extreme importance to the health of the community and health decision-makers. It provides evidenced-based information that the decision-makers can depend upon to plan and evaluate effective intervention national health programs. The survey will develop means for providing low-cost information that would supplement the information provided by the health information systems in the State of Kuwait. It will also develop the capability for policy-makers to monitor the performance of the health system, to ensure better monitoring of health status of the population, responsiveness of the health system and measurement of health-related parameters. In addition, it will develop appropriate methodology for measuring the impact of the status of health investments as well as other sectors. To achieve such objectives a representative sample of 6000 individuals will be selected from different population frames including Kuwaitis and non-Kuwaitis. Extensive data collection sheets have been developed to collect data about the health status of the whole family, health expenditure, and different types of behaviors that can affect the health status. Social conditions will also be probed. Several measurements will be obtained, such as weight, height, waist and hip circumferences, visual acuity, blood pressure, hand grip, ventilator pulmonary functions in addition to laboratory investigations. The data collection sheets are standardized by the World Health Organization and utilized in different countries of the world. The survey will be conducted in the six governorates of Kuwait over a period covering 28 months. Data collectors and supervisors will be subjected to intensive training to be able to conduct a qualitative survey and be able to properly communicate with the selected participants. CSPro program will be used for data entry, while data analysis will be carried out using STATA program. All the steps of the survey will be conducted in collaboration with WHO experts in health surveys and statistics. To ensure high quality of the whole survey, strict measures developed by WHO will be applied and followed. The project is expected to provide invaluable data that will help decision-makers to plan and evaluate appropriate health intervention programs that will improve the health status of the Kuwaiti community. The survey will also provide unique opportunities for the junior and senior Kuwaiti public health staff to gain field experience and build skills required for optimizing their work performance.
Molecular Basis of JAK2 Mutations (V617F) in Myeloproliferative Disorders in Kuwait (2008-1302-04)
S. Al-Shemmari Kuwait University
Abstract The three main chronic myeloproliferative disorders are polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET) and idiopathic myelofibrosis (IMF). These are clonal neoplastic diseases characterized by proliferation of one or more myeloid cell lineages.
The major features of the disorders are increased red cell mass in polycythemia vera a high platelet count in essential thrombocythemia, and bone marrow fibrosis in idiopathic myelofibrosis. Recently a mutation of the Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2) gene that leads to the substitution of phenylalanine for valine at position 617 of the JAK2 gene, JAK2 V617F, has been found in 76% to 97% of patients with PV, 29% to 57% of patients with ET and 50% of patients with IMF. This mutation confers constitutive activity on to the JAK2 gene and appears to play an important role in the pathobiology of these conditions. However, not all patients with
132 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project myeloproliferative disorders have this mutation and it may not be the primary cause of these diseases. There are a number of patients with one of the types of chronic myeloproliferative disease without any genetic mutations in the gene (JAK2). Recently, four new genetic mutations have been discovered in gene (JAK2), which may contribute to the understanding and studying of the nature of these diseases.
The primary goal of this prospective study is to identify the molecular basis of these diseases in groups of patients who have JAK2 mutation and in those who do not. The second goal is to compare the patients having homozygous versus heterozygous mutation. To investigate the presence of the genetic mutation, it would be useful to differentiate between myeloproliferative diseases. The relevance of identifying of the molecular basis of these disorders lays the foundation for new approaches to the diagnosis, classification and drug development.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 133 Natural Sciences
Subject Areas Astronomy Chemistry Computer Science Earth Science Environmental Science Mathematics Operations Research Physics Statistics
COMPLETED 5 ONGOING 4 NEW 6 COASTAL, TERRESTRIAL AND AERIAL CONCERNS SURFACE RESEARCH INITIATIVES
Among the several KFAS-sponsored mega projects on groundwater research, one of the groundwater pollution studies conducted at Umm Al-Aish and Al-Raudhatain areas concluded its investigations and confirmed that the transport of contamination from the surface to the aquifers was localized to areas of depressions and in locations where subsurface gatch layers were fragmented. Another project surveying local groundwater quality produced several groundwater vulnerability (to prevalent risks) maps, using GIS techniques and internationally-approved systems, including the DRASTIC model. One of the research projects concluded with the groundwater sampling and well-drilling processes and the results included the oceanographic characterization of the Kuwaiti bay water and determination of the radium and trace element contents as well as direct estimation of submarine groundwater discharge into the territorial waters of the Arabian Gulf. Researchers also reported on valuable results after investigations into the subsurface water contamination from sewage water, explicitly identifying the areas and the levels of contamination.
The Laser Induced Fluorescence Cone Penetrometer System that was successfully applied by researchers at Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research provided useful contamination profiles of sub- surface soils of the northern areas of Kuwait that were polluted by petroleum hydrocarbon products.
During the year, an ongoing project reported on vapor-liquid equilibrium experiments that were conducted for binary mixtures containing halogenated hydrocarbons, including analysis on samples.
Initial results of an extensive study of trace metal pollution, surveying plants and the atmosphere, including the soil, showed high trace metal concentrations in the areas. Indoor surveys continued to focus on traces of pollution in the warehouses, restaurants, government and private offices, supermarket, grocery shops, car parks and residential buildings. Additionally, another study began work to assess the indoor organic pollutant levels in select schools and hospitals.
Experimentations at two different research stations were ongoing, utilizing disposed construction materials (concrete aggregate, sandstone and asphalt), monitoring and evaluating their effects on the physical and chemical profiles of the soil.
One of the new research projects initiated work on charting out detailed sedimentomorphic maps for Kuwait, based on field investigations, GIS analysis, remote-sensing, geomorphological and sedimentological information.
Another research project, funded during the year, proceeded to monitor and measure radionuclide levels in Kuwait’s marine environment.
Similarly, investigators began to survey the environmental hazards caused by dust and pollens, particularly in Kuwait’s urban areas.
Fresh efforts were underway to develop a novel method for the preparation of nano-size iron oxide catalysts with high surface area.
135 Identification of Pathways of Pollutant Movement Towards Groundwater in Northern Kuwait (2003-1401-06)
A. Qabazard, M. Al-Rasheedi, M. Quinn, A. Al-Haddad and A. Al-Najadah Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The recent Gulf war resulted in the large-scale pollution of the ground surface in northern Kuwait. The rainfall, since the Second Gulf war, has leached some of the pollutants and infiltrated the subsurface, polluting part of the fresh groundwater lenses. In-situ Laser Induced Fluorescence (LIF) surface and subsurface profiling measurements, spectrofluorometric and conventional chemical analytical techniques were used to identify the pathways through which pollution, originating in oil-contaminated surface soils, is moving toward the freshwater lenses in the aquifers of north Kuwait.
Project Description Laser Induced Fluorescence (LIF) and using a field- simulating optical system. The results spectrofluorometric techniques were used along of these measurements and correlations verified with conventional chemical analytical techniques the in-situ LIF technique capability to follow the to understand the movement of oil-related movement of the contamination as it progressed contamination originating from oil spillage towards towards the aquifer. The second approach involved the fresh water lenses in the aquifers of Umm Al- sampling and analysis of surface and sub-surface Aish and Al-Raudhatain areas of north Kuwait. soils from twenty constructed boreholes, eleven The movement of detected pollution is correlated in the Umm Al-Aish, and nine in Al-Raudhatain. with leaching of contamination by rainwater and The borehole option was implemented because retardation by sorption processes in the soils in the preliminary survey of the areas of interest relevant areas. The investigations were built on identified major problems associated with pushing the results of previous detailed studies conducted the LIF probe through the gatch layer covering the by KISR (Viswanathan et al., 1997, Qabazard et entire area of concern. To solve this problem, a al., 2000, Qabazard et al., 2001, Al-Awadi et al., drilling contractor was contracted to drill through 2006) and by the international consultant Snowy the gatch layer to facilitate the insertion of the LIF Mountain Engineering Consultant (SMEC, 2006). probe system into the vadose zone and down into the aquifer. Soil cuttings and split spoon A characteristic fluorescence fingerprint due samples were collected at one meter intervals to polar species (as yet unidentified), detected during the drilling operation and analyzed for in contaminated water samples taken from the total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) by using aquifer, was used as a tracer for following the LIF, spectrofluometric and Gas-Chromatography movement of the oil-related contamination in Mass Spectrometer (GC MS) techniques. A third surface and subsurface soils in Al-Raudhatain approach involved an extensive LIF profiling of and Umm Al-Aish. This procedure was possible subsurface soils inside and around the perimeter because the characteristic fluorescence of oil lakes, oil pits and areas impacted by oil fingerprints of water extracts of oil-contamination contamination. The area of interest in Umm Al- that impacted surface and subsurface soils from Aish is shown in Fig. 1. those areas were basically identical to those measured in contaminated groundwater and correlated well with LIF measurements made directly on the soils, in the laboratory or directly in the field. Three investigative approaches were taken, the first involved an extensive surface soil sampling and analysis program covering oil contamination sources. A plan was implemented to collect and analyze 75 soil samples taken from selected areas in Umm Al-Aish and Al-Raudhatain. Characteristic fluorescence fingerprints were measured in water extracts of the surface and subsurface soils from these areas and correlated with LIF measurements made directly on the soils. Fig. 1. A Google Earth image showning the focus of The LIF measurements were made in the laboratory the study for the area in Umm Al-Aish.
136 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Analytical results of this work confirm that the the investigations, suspected of contributing, are transport of contamination to the underlying aquifer located within the fringes of oil lakes. occurs through a process involving leaching into Based on the results of this study, we recommend rainwater at the surface layer and the subsequent LIF profiling and soil layer characterization of downward movement of contamination through subsurface soils above the gatch layer (and below the vadose zone at a rate that is strongly influenced at selected locations) at the other major oil lakes by adsorption and leaching mechanisms that in the Umm Al-Aish and Al-Raudhatain areas depend on the nature of the contamination and and along drainage channels and slopes in the the properties of the surface and subsurface soils. contaminated areas, to assess if they contribute in Fragmentation of the gatch layer in the area of any way to ground water contamination and also the large oil lake at Umm Al-Aish was frequently to provide data for optimizing the rehabilitation encountered during LIF/CPT probe penetration approach in these areas. into subsurface soils. Fluorescence profiles recorded in this area support the conclusion that water moving downwards in these locations most Acknowledgments likely follows a random walk in both lateral and The project team is grateful for financial support vertical directions. A suggested model for the of Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of movement of contaminated water from the surface Sciences (KFAS) and Kuwait Institute for Scientific towards the aquifer is presented in (Fig. 2). Similar Research (KISR). results were obtained from work performed at other oil-contaminated areas in Al-Raudhatain. References
Water Lake Surface Runoff Al-Awadi E.; M. F. Quinn; A. Mukhopadhyay; A. Akber; A. Al-Haddad; A. Hauser; T. Rashid and M. Al-Rasheedi. 2006. Identification of different Impenetrable Gartch Clay/Silt/Sand/Gravel hydrocarbon groups in the groundwater of Kuwait. Final Report WM005C, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. Report No. KISR8072. Qabazard A. M., Quinn M. F., and Ebrahim S. 2000. Sand/Gravel Development of Fiber-Optic Probing System Capable of Direct Measurement of Oil Pollution in Soil. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. Report No. KISR5995. Qabazard A. M., and Quinn M. F. 2001. Laser Liquid Oil Saturated zone Dry Contaminated Soil Induced Fluorescence (LIF) Spectroscopy of Soil Contaminated By Kuwait Crude and Refined Oils. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research. Report No. KISR5740. Fig. 2. A schematic model showing the random walk movement of infiltrating rain water as it SMEC. 2006. Results of the Five-Year Monitoring infiltrates the fragmented Gatch layer towards and Assessment Program. A report prepared the water table. for the Public Authority for Assessment of Compensation (PACC) for Damages Resulting Conclusions and Recommendations from Iraqi Aggression against the State of Kuwait. Final Report No. GD 5.12, Volume 1. It was concluded that the transfer of contamination Viswanathan M. N., M. N. AI-Senafy, A. from the surface to the aquifer is generally Mukhopadhyay, K. A. W. Kodittuwakku and localized to the surface contaminated areas of the K. Al-Fahad. 1997. Assessment of the long- depressions and most probably in locations where term pollution potential of the groundwater the subsurface gatch layers are fragmented and of Raudhatain and Umm Al-Aish Areas. Final non-uniformly dispersed. Moreover, oil pits are Report Research Project WH002C, Vols. I, II most likely a source of oil-related contamination and III. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, reaching the aquifer; however, those included in Report No. KISR5006.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 137 Development of a Laser-Induced Fluorescence Cone Penetrometer System for Site Characterization and Analysis of Subsurface Contaminants (2004-1401-01)
M. Al-Rasheedi, M. Quinn, A. Qabazard, A. Ismail and A. Al-Nijada Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract A fiber optic laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) instrument for Cone-Penetrometry Testing (CPT) deployment has been successfully developed and field-tested. The system produces radiation at 266 nm for exciting fluorescence in soil target. About 10 to 50µJ of laser radiation at 266 nm was coupled into one of the optical fibers threaded through the CPT system for exciting fluorescence in soil targets. A stainless steel probe head was designed to be pushed below the ground surface to a maximum depth of ~ 50 m. Laser light was sent through fiber optics to interact with the soil through the sapphire window placed on the probe head. Fluorescence emission was collected through the sapphire window and channelled back to a detection system on the ground surface through a separate fiber mounted in the probe head. Calibration samples were prepared from a clean representative soil and spiked with different oil products to generate calibration curves for quantification measurements. This system was installed in a CPT vehicle and had undergone a number of field tests at different sites in the oil-contaminated areas of north Kuwait. The field demonstrations were successful in that the instrument was operational and excellent depth-encoded LIF data were collected for a significant number of surface push locations. The results of this pilot study, presented in this report, demonstrate reliability of both system and technology.
Project Description A LIF probing system capable of characterizing oil- through soils with various lithologies at a rate of related contamination in surface and sub-surface ~ 1cm/sec. Both total fluorescence measurements soils was successfully developed, laboratory-tested and spectral measurements were taken during and field-tested in Kuwait. The system was the pushes. The results of these investigations operated from a 20-ton diesel powered Man truck confirmed the capability of the system to rapidly fitted with a heavy-duty hydraulic ram. The ram characterize oil-related contamination in sub- was used for pushing the probe into the soils to surface soils. These field visits also allowed the depths of ~ 50m, with the aid of push rods. The project team to determine the capability and system can easily be fitted with standard Cone limitations of the LIF system, namely: Penetrometry Testing (CPT) sensors (strain gauges) for simultaneous geotechnical and LIF 1. The ability to push through gatch layers with characterization of sub-surface soils. layer thickness <~1m without interfering with LIF measurements or presenting a risk of probe The LIF system was designed and assembled by damage. the KISR project team. Specialized components such as probe head and fiber-optic systems were 2. Rapid and reliable screening of soils for oil- fabricated in Germany and the USA, respectively, related contamination with a capability to to KISR’s designs. indicate whether an action threshold had exceeded. The system was subjected to detailed laboratory trials using field samples taken from boreholes in 3. The ability to characterize contamination via the Umm Al-Aish area of north Kuwait. The split spectral measurements. spoon samples and soil cuttings were collected Capabilities 2 and 3 above required knowledge at 1 m intervals during construction of the boreholes of the nature of the soil being probed and the for an ongoing KFAS funded project (EA030C). availability of a database with pre-measured During the laboratory testing phase, soils LIF calibration data relating to the type of oil samples were placed directly on the sapphire contamination involved. As a proof of concept, window located in the side of the probe and LIF a soil representative of many surface and sub- measurements were recorded. surface soils encountered in Kuwait’s terrestrial Following the initial laboratory testing phase and environment was selected and spiked (~250 ppm push experiments using a dummy probe, the LIF to 20,000 ppm) with a range of petroleum probe system was field-tested during three visits hydrocarbon products (gasoline, diesel, aviation to the Umm Al-Aish area, north of Kuwait. During fuel, crude, kerosene). Spiking levels were these investigations, LIF data was recorded at 1 verified using TPH methods USEPA 418.1, USEPA sec. intervals as the LIF probe was advanced 8015B modified and a spectrofluorometric method
138 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project developed at KISR and extensively used in Remediation Program. The execution of the LIF/ project EA030C. LIF measurements made on CPT work during the remediation program will these spiked samples provided the means for not only contribute significantly to the success of producing calibration lines that can be easily used the program but will also provide the opportunity for field-screening similar soils contaminated by to demonstrate the capability and reliability of any of the products mentioned earlier. The most the system to build up a team of trained system important outcome of the calibration work was operators and to develop all the support facilities the development of the spiking procedures and required to ensure a quality service to potential the procedures for verification of spiking levels. clients in the oil industry and other sectors. Acknowledgements The project team is grateful to Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences for the continuous support to our innovative projects. References Al-Awadi, E.; A. Mukhopadhyay; A. Akbar; M. Quinn; and K. Hadi. 2000. Investigation of occurrence of trace metals, hydrocarbons, and microbes in the ground water of Kuwait. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Report No. KISR5768, Kuwait. ASTM D6282–98(2005). 2005. Standard Guide for Direct Push Soil Sampling for Environmental Site Characterizations. American Society for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, Penn. Bujewski, G., and B. Rutherford. 1998. Innovative Technology Verification Report: The site Fig. 1. CPT System and Controller. characterization and analysis penetrometer system (SCAPS) laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) sensor and support system. Sandia National Laboratories. Albuquerque, New Mexico. National Exposure Research Laboratory. Characterization Research Division. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Quinn, M.; O. Alemeddine; A. Qabazard; and A. Al-Hussaini. 1998. Development of laser fluorosensor techniques for remote detection, identification and quantification of oil spills in marine environment, Phase III. Kuwait. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Report No. ES004C, Kuwait. Fig.2. The Design of the Probe Head. SMEC. 2006. Groundwater cluster’s review Conclusions and Recommendations report: results of the initial soil and water quality monitoring in the fresh water aquifers. The LIF probing system is currently being applied Program for the Monitoring and Assessment in the Umm Al-Aish and Al-Raudhatain areas of of Environmental Consequences of Iraqi north Kuwait to provide contamination profiles Aggression in Kuwait, Report No. GD 5.12, of sub-surface soils. Figures 1 and 2 show the Kuwait. control cabin from inside and the design of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1997. The probe head. Contamination in the vadose zone Site Characterization and Analysis Penetro- had resulted from the oil spills and fall-out from meter System (SCAPS) Laser Induced burning oil wells caused by the retreating Iraqi Fluorescence (LIF) Sensor and Support forces in 1991. System. Innovative Technology Verification In the near future, the LIF/CPT system will be Report EPA/600/R-97/019, Sandia National used as a screening tool in the UNCC sponsored Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 139 Development of Decision-Support Maps for Groundwater Protection in the State of Kuwait (2004-1405-01)
A. Fadlelmawla, A. Mukhopadhyay, H. El-Gamily and T. Rashid Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract This study has been conducted to provide a set of tools that facilitate effective decision-making process for groundwater quality in the land-use planning. The study adapted the notion of land surface zoning as a means for adjusting the protection measures to varied spatial needs. In applying this notion, the principles of risk assessment were utilized as basis for land surface zoning. Two sets of tools was developed to assess and manage the risks. The first was composed of six maps representing basic elements risks for groundwater (vulnerability, pollution hazards, and value), current risks, value-weighted current risks and consequences of pollutants release. The second set constituted a conceptual design of the national groundwater monitoring network and recommendations on the institutional, regulative and technical actions to be taken to activate the groundwater protection program. In addition to risk analysis principles, the study relied on GIS techniques and various approaches modified from US EPA’s ranking systems including DRASTIC to achieve its goals.
Project Description An inventory targeting the major categories of The intrinsic vulnerability was shown in a total potentially polluting activities was conducted that of 10 maps describing the following: full country included agricultural, industrial waste disposal scale (Fig. 2), the brackish water well-fields, the and oil-related activities. A total of 15 standardized Wafra farms, the Abdally farms, the northern maps of the main activities (e.g. Fig. 1) of the above watersheds, and the urban areas of Kuwait. The categories were prepared with database using aim of producing area-specific maps was to enable ARCGIS. Based on risk assessment principles, detailing the vulnerability index in these areas. the above activities were ranked according to their hazardousness and presented in one country- scale map (hazards map). The approach adapted, after modifications, were as per the conceptual framework for the hazard ranking system described by the USEPA (1990). The agricultural activities (including gardens and landscapes) along with Shuaiba industrial complex, were the most hazardous for ground-water quality in Kuwait.
Fig. 2. Relative intrinsic groundwater vulnerability for Kuwait.
The relative value of the groundwater was mapped according to the three criteria (current dependence on groundwater, the potential future dependence on groundwater and interaction with environmental resources) adapted from New England's EPA criteria for prioritizing the Fig. 1. Wafra farms as example of the hazardous protection/remediation funds. Rate maps were prepared using ARCGIS, representing the above Using theactivities DRASTIC maps. model (Aller et al., 1987), the criteria. The layers were combined on the basis of intrinsic vulnerability of the groundwater in Kuwait equal weights to produce the final value map. The was mapped. Generally, the northern territories are map shows that higher value groundwaters are the most vulnerable in the country. In the south, Al- presented as a band roughly at the vertical axis of Wafra is also highly vulnerable, mostly due to the the country extending from the northern Kuwaiti- dynamic (i.e., time variant) condition of high water Iraqi borders down to the southern Kuwaiti-Saudi levels due to irrigation. borders.
140 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project This band covers the agricultural farms of Abdally, activities, military movements, urban development the main depressions of the north and the brackish and associated landfills, etc.; (6) interactions water well-fields. The value of the groundwater between groundwater and seawater at the decreases gradually towards the east and west discharge zones along the Arabian Gulf coast; mostly due to high salinity and evident pollution and (7) gaps in country-wide spatial coverage after for the earlier and lack of dependency for the provisions for monitoring the above processes, latter. The most valuable groundwater was at the activities and phenomena were recorded. The brackish water well-fields where relatively low number, location and type (shallow or deep, salinity, multipurpose complete dependency, and single, nested or multi-level) of the monitoring pristine quality were prevailing. wells required for the comprehensive monitoring of the effects of the above on the groundwater resources of the country were estimated and a conceptual design of the monitoring network was presented that may require more than 400 wells, covering whole of Kuwait. In order to clarify the picture of the road ahead, non-technical aspects of groundwater protection were generally discussed with emphasis on the strategic policies for groundwater quality management. This process also identified six milestones on the path to protect groundwater quality in Kuwait. Conclusions and Recommendations The study clearly advocates adopting the principle Fig. 3. Relative consequences of release index map. of land surface zoning as basis for protecting the groundwater in Kuwait. Based on this principle, Decision-making tools were produced by six decision-support maps were developed and combining the basic maps as follows: a conceptual design of national groundwater (1) vulnerability and hazard maps to produce quality monitoring network was prepared. It basic risk map; (2) basic risk and groundwater is recommended to use these products as a value maps to produce the valued risk map; and platform for regulating land-use for the sake of (3) vulnerability and groundwater value maps to maintaining the quality of the groundwater. The produce pollution consequences map. The above study also identified six necessary milestones maps were produced using ARCGIS on the basis on the path to protecting groundwater quality of normalized scales and equal weights. in Kuwait. The formulation of the groundwater protection committee is the engine needed for A conceptual design of network of monitoring wells mobilizing and streamlining the protection efforts. covering all sources of groundwater in the country It is recommended to initiate the protection efforts was developed. Sampling of these monitoring by an awareness campaign that addresses key wells at fixed intervals and chemical analyses of decision-makers. the samples collected provided the information necessary for the evaluation of the state of Acknowledgements the groundwater resources and subsequent measures to be adopted to ensure the continuous The authors are grateful to Kuwait Foundation usability of the water. The processes, phenomena for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for and activities to be monitored in Kuwait for the participating in funding the project. The unlimited above purpose were identified as: (1) lateral cross- support of KISR’s management was pivotal in boundary recharge from Saudi Arabia and Iraq; carrying out the various tasks of the project. (2) regional groundwater quality trend, produced by the interaction of the groundwater entering References Kuwait from Saudi Arabia and Iraq; (3) mixing Aller, L.; T. Bennett; J. Lehr; R. Petty and G. between groundwater of Dammam Formation Hackett. 1987. DRASTIC: A Standard System and Kuwait Group aquifers arising out of the for Evaluating Ground Water Pollution Potential cross-flow between the two aquifers, both due to Using Hydrogeologic Settings. EPA/600/2- the pre-existing and exploitation-induced vertical 85/018, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, hydraulic gradients between the two aquifers; Robert S. Kerr Environmental Research (4) groundwater withdrawal in the production Laboratory, Ada, OK. fields causing lateral and upward flow from deeper zones; (5) potential hazardous activities like US EPA. 1990. Hazard ranking system; Final agriculture; oil exploration, production, refining, rule. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental transportation and distribution; other industrial Protection Agency.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 141 Evaluation of Quantity and Quality of Groundwater Seepage to Kuwait Bay (2005-1401-05)
A. Fadlelmawla, F. Al-Yamani, A. Mukhopadhyay and M. AlSenafy Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The flow of groundwater into the sea, which is known as submarine groundwater discharge (SGD), is an important phenomenon that has proven impacts on the chemistry of the coastal waters. Having stated that, SGD can be a significant component of the elemental budget of Kuwait Bay (KB). In efforts to support sound management of the bay, this study provides the first estimates of SGD to KB and the Kuwait coastline in the Arabian Gulf. Using radium as a tracer for groundwater, estimates of SGD rates ranged from 1.1 to 2.8 x 107 m³ d-¹ (55 to 150 m³ m-¹ d-¹) for KB and 0.65 to 1.3 x 107 m³ d-¹ (65 to 125 m³ m-¹ d-¹) for the Arabian Gulf. Based on the average groundwater concentrations around the bay, the SGD inputs about 1000 tones d-¹ of nitrate into the bay. The extreme aridity of the Gulf region has been a major factor in the setup of the radium budget as follows: (1) dust storms greater than 5 g m-² d-¹ have the potential to add significant quantities of radium to coastal waters; hence, should be accounted for in this and similar environments; (2) seawater evaporation during hot and dry periods may lead to density driven exchange between surface water and groundwater; and (3) urbanization-driven recharge dominates SGD’s temporal trend. Signs for SGD impacts on the characteristics of the bay were examined. Overall, temperature, nitrate and chlorophyll-a have shown temporal and spatial trends, similar to those of radium.
Project Description The study adapted the use of naturally occurring The ≈ 14 months field activities included KB, Arabian radium isotopes as tracers to quantify the SGD Gulf and ground water sampling as well as wells to the bay (Moore et al., 2006; Charette et al., drilling. A total of 12 seawater sampling campaigns 2004). More specifically, the box model approach were conducted resulting in the collection of 167 (equation 1) was selected to avoid the potential samples (Fig. 2). These samples were collected for effects of SGD from the opposite shorelines of the oceanographic characterization of the bay water, bay on the radium gradient. determination of radium content for mass balance calculations, and determination of trace elements content as ancillary information. Two groundwater sampling campaigns were conducted resulting in collecting 48 radium samples, 45 major elements samples and 23 trace elements samples (Fig 2).
226 where RaKB is the average concentration of 226 226 226 Ra within Kuwait Bay, RaKB is the Ra concentration of the Arabian Gulf waters that enter
Kuwait Bay through tidal exchange, VKB and tKB are the volume and residence time of water in Kuwait Bay, respectively. Together these terms are solved
to determine the loss via mixing (FMix).
Fig. 1 Simplified box model for determining SGD via Fig. 2. Locations for surface (green circles) and 226Ra. ground water (white circles) sampling.
142 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Conclusions and Recommendations regions dominates the typically limited natural recharge, which in turn leads to controlling the Using the afore-stated approach, this study levels and their periodicity of the groundwater produced the first direct estimates of SGD to KB beneath these cities. and the Kuwait territorial waters of the Arabian Gulf. After accounting for additional sources and sinks, The above SGD rates combined with average the radium mass balance in combination with a groundwater concentrations around the bay measured 226Ra groundwater average of 170 dpm enabled estimates of SGD elemental input to L-¹ resulted in submarine groundwater discharge the bay, out of which, nitrate, with ≈ 1000 tones rates that ranged from 1.1 to 2.8 x 107 m³ d-¹ (55 d-1, is very alarming. Signs for SGD impacts on to 150 m³ m-¹ d-¹) for KB and 0.65 to 1.3 x 107 m³ the characteristics of the bay were examined by d-³ (65 to 125 m³ m-¹ d-¹) for the Arabian Gulf. The looking into temporal and spatial correlations average radium-derived SGD for KB falls within the between 226Ra activities and bay water median SGD for a number of locations with wide- characteristics. Overall, temperature, nitrate and ranging geologic and climatologic characteristics chlorophyll-a have shown temporal and spatial and significantly higher than other arid region trends, similar to those of radium. Nonetheless, SGD reports (Fig. 3). Large-scale urban irrigation other inputs (e.g. sewerage) to the bay, which at Kuwait City and suburban areas can partially has similar temporal trends as radium might be explain these differences. In addition, the relatively responsible for some of the observed impacts. large-scale of application in this report (i.e. Recommendations for further studies and compared to other arid region reports) allowed reduction of potential impacts of SGD were given. accounting for SGD occurrence for a significant Even though this study showed that large distance beyond the intertidal zone. elemental mass is reaching the bay via SGD, the significance of such information can be judged only within the context of the overall budget of the 10000 Local-scale studies Regional Globeal bay. Accordingly, it is recommended to conduct studies Averages /m/d) an overall budgeting of the bay's nutritional and 3 1000 elemental inputs and outputs. In such a study, the obtained estimates of elemental inputs to the bay
100 through SGD should be utilized in the calculation of non-point sources to the KB. If such a study deemed such inputs as excessive and that SGD 10 is playing a significant role in this excessiveness, the following measures are recommended: Shoreline-normalized SGD (m 1 leakage control, increased water tariff and increased public awareness are to be pursued to Sicily (Italy) Bay of Bengal IntertidalSubtidal Pump Pump Jeju Island (Korea) Yeoja Bay (Korea) Dor Beach (Israel) NE Gulf of Mexico reduce SGD; secondly, monitoring and regulating Kuwait Bay (Kuwait) Flic en Flac (Mauritius) Flamengo Bay (Brazil) Waquoit Bay, MA (USA)Shlter WaquoitIsland, NY BAy, (USA) MA (USA) Terrestrial Groundwater Apalachee Bay, FL (USA) Yellow SeaSouth (China/Korea) Atlantic Bight (US) potentially polluting activities are measures Eckernföder Bay (Germany) Huntington Beach, CA (USA) Sicily / Mediterranean (Italy) Chao Phraya estuary (Thailand) Pettaquamscutt Estuary, RI (USA)Cockburn Sound, Perth (Australia) suitable for enhancing the quality of SGD.
Fig. 3. Shoreline-length normalized SGD for a wide Acknowledgments range of global studies including this study. The authors are grateful to Kuwait Foundation The extreme aridity of the Gulf region has been for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for a major factor in the setup of the radium budget, participating in funding the project. The unlimited the following are the necessary considerations for support of KISR’s management was pivotal in SGD estimation in such arid conditions: (1) dust carrying out the various tasks of the projects. storms greater than 5 g m-² d-¹ have the potential to add significant quantities of radium to coastal References waters. This source must be accounted for when using radium isotopes as a tracer of SGD Charette, M. A., and K. O. Buesseler. (2004). in this and similar environments; (2) seawater Submarine groundwater discharge of nutrients evaporation during hot and dry periods may result and copper to an urban sub-estuary of in hypersaline conditions within coastal waters, Chesapeake bay (Elizabeth River). Limnology which in turn may lead to density-driven exchange and Oceanography 49:376-3 between surface water and groundwater within the Moore, W. S. (2006). Radium isotopes as tracers shallow surficial aquifer; (3) irrigation of landscapes of submarine groundwater discharge in Sicily. and private gardens in coastal megacities in arid Continental Shelf Research, 26:852-861.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 143 Evaluation of Urban Groundwater Contamination from Sewage Network in Kuwait City (2005-1405-01)
A. Akber, E. Al-Awadi, A. Mukhopadhyay, M. Al-Senafy, A. Al-Haddad, H. Bhandary and T. Rashid Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Subsurface water contamination by sewage network products is an increasing matter of public and regulatory concern in Kuwait. The presence of sewage in urban groundwater may lead to incidents of illnesses of varying degrees among water consumers. This problem may also result in the groundwater table rise phenomenon with consequent deleterious effects on roads, services, infrastructures, construction sites and basements of residential units. This study primarily aimed at understanding the impacts of potentially leaky sewerage systems on the urban groundwater table rise and quality in Kuwait City and its suburbs in an attempt to prescribe, where possible, preventive and/or remedial measures that need to be taken to alleviate such adverse effects. During the field activities of the study, thirty test boreholes were drilled to a depth of 15 m in numerous locations within Kuwait City and its suburbs to determine the water-table levels and obtain groundwater samples and soil cuttings from different subsurface horizons. The collected groundwater and soil samples were analyzed to determine their chemical and microbiological constituents, which are indicative of groundwater pollution by sewage products. The obtained results suggest that most of the possible subsurface water contamination from sewage in recent times has taken place in Al-Shuwaikh Industrial Area, Reggai and Al-Ardiya and to a lesser extent Khaitan and Jabriya. Other areas do not show strong evidence of contamination by sewage water in recent times. The study recommended conducting long-term monitoring of the subsurface water in areas that have shown possible pollution from sewage networks as well as engaging in remedial measures for the possible leaks in the networks in the areas.
Project Description An intensive investigation was carried out to obtain products, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), relevant data and information from a wide array chemical oxygen demand (COD), free chlorine, of sources, including reports and documents phosphates (PO4), ammonia (NH3), nitrates (NO3), of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research sulfates (SO4), Sulfide, total organic carbon (TOC), (KISR), Ministry of Public Works (MPW), Kuwait total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs), biological Municipality (KM), and the Ministry of Electricity oxygen demand (BOD) as well as total bacteria and Water (MEW) as well as other sources. The count (TBC), total coliform bacteria (TCB), fecal obtained data and information were used to coliform bacteria (FCB), Escherichia coli (E. coli) identify drilling sites in the study area. and fecal streptococcus (FS). During the field activities, thirty test boreholes were drilled to a depth of 15 m in numerous locations within the study area, including Kuwait City, Al-Deiyah, Abdulla Al-Salem, Al-Shamiyah, Al-Shuwaikh, Al-Nuzha, Al-Sha’ab, Hawalli, KISR, Al-Adailiyah, Al-Salmiyah, Al-Jabriyah, Qurtoba, Al-Khaldiyah, G-1, UN Roundabout, Al-Sulaibikhat, Al-Rumaithiyah, Al-Salam, Al-Yarmouk, Al-Rai, Abraq Khaitan, Al-Ardiyah, Bayan, Mishref and Khaitan (Fig. 1). These test boreholes were utilized to determine the water-table levels and obtain groundwater samples and soil cuttings from different subsurface horizons. The collected groundwater samples and soil cuttings were properly preserved and safely transferred to the concerned laboratories at Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) for detailed chemical and microbiological analyses. The collected groundwater samples were analyzed to determine their chemical and microbiological constituents which are, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA, Fig. 1. Location of drilled test boreholes in Kuwait 1984), indicative of groundwater pollution by sewage City and suburbs.
144 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Additionally, eight groundwater samples were Acknowledgements collected from selected locations in Kuwait City and its suburbs, and were sent to a laboratory Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) outside to determine their stable hydrogen would like to extend its deepest appreciation isotope (Deuterium (²H)) and oxygen isotope (18O) and gratitude to Kuwait Foundation for the contents as described by Silva et al. (2000). Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for participating in funding the project. Conclusions and Recommendations References The obtained results suggest that most of the possible subsurface water contamination from Silva, S.R., Kraus, E. H., W. F. Hunt and L. S. sewage in recent times has taken place in Al- Ramsdell. 2000. “A New Method for Collection Shuwaikh Industrial Area, Reggai and Al-Ardiya of Nitrate from Fresh Water and Analysis for its and to a lesser extent Khaitan and Jabriya Nitrogen and Oxygen Isotopic Ratios”. Journal (Fig. 2). Other areas do not show strong evidence of Hydrology. Vol. 228. 2000. pp.22-36. of contamination by sewage water in recent U.S.EPA. 1984. Committee on the Challenges of times. The study recommended conducting Modern Society (NATO/CCMS): Drinking Water long-term monitoring of the subsurface water in Microbiology, NATO/CCMS Drinking Water areas that have shown possible pollution from Series, EPA 570/9-84-006. Environmental sewage networks as well as engaging in remedial Protection Agency, Washington D.C. measures of the possible leaks in the networks of these areas.
Fig. 2. Classification of areas according to the level of subsurface water contamination by sewage products.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 145 Vapour-Liquid Equilibria for Mixtures Containing Halogenated Hydrocarbons (2002-1401-03)
M. Al-Hayan and J. Al-Kandary Public Authority for Applied Education and Training
Abstract Halogenated hydrocarbons are manufactured in large quantities and have many applications (as refrigerants, medicines, anesthetics, organic solvents, aerosol propellants and reaction media). During the last two decades, more and more attention has been given to the potential hazards of halogenated hydrocarbons. The emphasis is mainly on two aspects, namely, destruction of the ozone in the stratosphere due to the presence of chlorofluorocarbons and the toxic and carcinogenic effects of halogenated hydrocarbons on the human population. Among other measures to abate such hazardous effects, more stringent regulations were implemented on plants using or manufacturing halogenated hydrocarbons to minimize the concentration of halogenated hydrocarbons in their effluent waste streams. For the design of relevant separation processes, phase equilibrium data for mixtures of halogenated hydrocarbons and halogenated hydrocarbons with other hydrocarbons or water are deemed essential.
Project Progress During the first six months of this project, the So far, more than 30 binary systems have been project equipment were procured, assembled, studied. Three papers were published and three commissioned, and calibrated. Equipment others are being prepared for publication. received included the vapor-liquid equilibrium apparatus (Fig.1), the high accuracy refractometer, In the last phase of this project, the few remaining the re-circulating bath, the analytical balance and experiments will be undertaken and the data the portable pressure gauge. collected will be analyzed for thermodynamic consistency, compared to similar data when Some vapor-liquid equilibrium experiments available and published. were conducted for binary mixtures containing halogenated hydrocarbons, and the samples obtained were analyzed for composition using either density or refractive index measurements, based on the correlations established earlier between the standard solutions composition and their densities or refractive indices. Some of the binary mixtures studied were representative of: - n-alkanes/halobenzenes - chlorinated alkanes/alkyl benzenes - halobenzenes/alkyl benzenes - chlorinated alkanes/brominated alkanes - brominated alaknes/halobenzenes - brominated benzenes/chlorinated alkanes Fig. 1. Vapor-liquid equilibrium apparatus.
146 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Apportionment of Trace Metals Pollution in Outdoor and Indoor PM-10, PM -2.5 and in Selected Flora of Kuwait Arid Ecosystem (2006-1401-02)
A. Bu-Olayan Kuwait University
Abstract Trace metals in particulate matter (PM-10 and PM-2.5) deposition by outdoor sources in arid Kuwait ecosystem were assessed seasonally (Phase-I) using Haz-dust (EPAM 5000) air monitor to study the role of (a) trace metals depositions in selected plant parts (leaves, bark or stem, roots) and soil adjoining the plants, (b) particulate matter (PM-10 and PM-2.5) in ambient atmosphere collected from six Governorates of Kuwait (Al-Jahra, Kuwait City, Hawally, Al-Farwaniya, Mubarak Al-Kabeer and Al-Ahmadi: Gov. I-VI respectively) including the Northern and Southern farming areas. In Phase-II, indoor trace metals pollution through PM-10 and PM-2.5 deposition are being assessed at different premises such as warehouses, restaurants, government and private offices, supermarket, retail shop (‘Bakala’), car parks and residential buildings.
Project Progress An extensive study on the selected desert plants collected, each from the six Kuwait Governorates revealed high trace metals concentrations in Tamarix aucherana and Salsola baryosoma irrespective of seasons and sampled Kuwaiti areas (Fig.1). Governorate-wise analysis showed high trace metals concentrations in the sequence of GII>GI>GVI>GIII>GIV>GV. Trace metals concentrations was high in the sequence of leaves > soil > stem > roots in all the samples. Aluminum (Al) was high among the other trace metals (Cu, Fe, Zn, Cd, Pb, Ni, V) analyzed irrespective of the plants parts, soil, season and sampling areas. Trace metal concentrations in PM-10 and PM-2.5 in the atmosphere surrounding the selected plants as well as deposits in various parts (fruit/florets, leaves, Fig.1. Desert plant. stem/bark and roots) of the selected plants and soil in different areas of the six Kuwait Governorates Phase-II of this project will also study the levels of showed similar results. Analysis of trace metals in trace of metals in PM-2.5 and PM-10 from different PM-10 and PM-2.5 from indoor premises (Phase- products of indoor source collected from various II) such as supermarket, retail shops, restaurants, establishments, besides the synergistic effect government offices, private offices, car parks and of environmental variables, outdoor and indoor warehouses are in progress (Fig.2). pollution.
Fig.2. Outdoor and Indoor samples.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 147 Utilization of By-Product Materials of Building Construction and Demolition to Conserve Water and Soil (2006-1401-05)
M. Abdal, M. Suleiman, N. Bhat, R. Thomas, S. Jacob, L. Al-Mulla, S. Al-Dossery and R. Bellen Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Rapid development activities in the recent years in Kuwait have resulted in large amounts of construction and demolition wastes that are mostly buried at various landfills around urban establishments. Most of this waste can be recycled for better use to improve the environment as mulch and landscape material within the country. Utilization of rock aggregate for desert mulching can decrease soil erosion, reduce soil water evaporation, and enhance native plant growth and development, as well as generate business opportunities for local enterprises. The effect of the aggregate on the physical and chemical conditions of soil was evaluated in this study to understand the soil interaction with the by-product material. Its effectiveness in soil and water conservation was also monitored to compare the effect of the treatments within the soil profile.
Project Progress The concept of utilizing by-product materials from moisture content, native plant population and construction/demolition activities can enhance soil growth, infiltration rate, pH, salinity, heavy metal and water conservation in Kuwait and generate content and microbial count were collected to business opportunities for local enterprises. assess the effect of experiment on the soil profile. During this period of the project execution, mobilization as well as sorting and crushing of various soil aggregates for application as mulch ABC and landscape was implemented to study the effect of the aggregate on soil and identify its interaction with the soil. The chemical composition of the construction and demolition waste and its effect on soil solution were also studied.
A randomized block design for the experiments in Sulaibiya Research Station and KISR Waterfront were prepared. Various sizes (small (5-10 mm), medium (10-25 mm) and the large size (25-50 mm)) of concrete aggregate, sandstone Fig. 1. Mulch aggregate (a) Concrete, (b) asphalt and asphalt (Fig. 1) were used as 25%, 50% and and (c) sandstone. 75% mulch on the soil surface. The control was without any mulch. Total number of treatments Marginal variation within treatments was observed were 28, replicated thrice (3 (density) * 3 (size) for all parameters but the actual impact of mulch * 3 (structure/color) + 1 (control)). In total there on soil environment can be concluded at the end were 84 experimental units. The mineralogical of the project. content of the aggregates (concrete, sandstone and asphalt), chemical and physical properties of Future work includes continuation of monitoring soil were assessed prior to the implementation of and evaluation of the various treatments and the experiments. Initial data on parameters like soil environmental changes resulting from the study.
148 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Genetic Diseases in the State in Kuwait: A Statistical Approach (2007-1102-01)
R. Al-Jarallah¹, S. Al-Awadi², L.Bastaki², and M. Marafie² Kuwait University¹ and Ministry of Health²
Abstract The proposed study is the first comprehensive population-based registry with the objective of documenting and analysing data for a wide spectrum of genetic disorders in patients of various nationalities and ethnicities, who lived in the State of Kuwait during the period 1997-2006.
Moreover, profile of existing genetic diseases is to be characterised. The outcome of the study will assist decision-makers at Kuwait Medical Genetic Centre (KMGC) and the Ministry of Health in setting up strategic plans and help in the day-to-day running of the centre.
Project Progress The Kuwait Medical Genetic Centre (KMGC) was in electronic form. An appropriate data sheet was established in Kuwait in 1979. Since that time, designed, for this purpose, on the basis of the most genetic diseases are being referred to the discussion with medical staff in the centre. centre. By now KMGC has a large amount of data on different genetic diseases on files, covering the The next phase of the project will include period 1979-2006. However, the present data has conducting some basic statistical analysis. The never been statistically analysed nor organized or genetic data in Kuwait has never been subjected stored electronically in a way that can be used for to statistical study and, consequently, part of this statistical analysis. project will evolve around producing descriptive statistical indicators as well as the usual graphs The project started with a literature review on the which identify distributions, trends, differences etc. most popular genetic diseases prevailing in Kuwait. The first objective of this project was to setup a For the most common genetic disorders, a database for genetic disorders. The database is statistical report is produced describing how based on information that has been collected for these disorders are distributed in different regions a period of more than 27 years by KMGC and is in Kuwait as well as pointing out to relationships currently stored in registries in paper form. between various factors. The report will be helpful in comparing with similar data from other world- During the first year of the project, a system was wide genetic centres. set up for transferring and organizing genetic data
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 149 Investigation of Indoor Environmental Air Quality (IEAQ) in Large Office Buildings in Kuwait - Phase 1 (2006-1401-01) H. Al-Mudhaf Public Authority for Applied Education and Training Abstract Long-term exposure to low levels of chemical pollutants in indoor air can have serious health effects as well as loss of productivity and the feeling of well-being. Large office buildings usually contain a multitude of activities with wide-ranging sources of air pollutants, including toxic gases, volatile organic chemicals, airborne dust, and fungal spores. It has been recognized that exposure to such mixture of pollutants produces unhealthy feeling and sickness leading to the use of the term “sick-building syndrome”. With the physical and mechanical complexity of modem office buildings, as well as the human activities within, it is impossible to pin-point the source of the air quality problem without an integrated investigation of all types and levels of pollutants present. In addition, the outdoor environmental air quality in large metropolitan and industrial areas may have significant impact on the indoor environmental air quality of large office buildings. No data is currently available on the types and levels of chemical pollutants in large office buildings in Kuwait. The primary objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive characterization of indoor air pollutants, their sources, and the factors affecting their exposure levels in the indoor environment of large office buildings. The study will capitalize in the use of state-of-the-art sampling techniques and analytical technology, which will provide an opportunity for hands-on training of young Kuwaitis. The results of this study should be valuable in the near future for the design and construction of the new office buildings as well as for developing control strategies for the existing ones in the State of Kuwait.
Sedimentomorphic Mapping of Some Selected Areas in the State of Kuwait Using Remote- Sensing and GIS Applications - Phase 2 (2006-1401-04) A. Al-Hurban Kuwait University Abstract The land surface of Kuwait is generally flat and mostly covered by various types of recent sediments. They are continually transported along the surface under the influence of the prevailing NW winds. Aeolian deposits are the most frequent type of surface sediment in Kuwait and cover more than 50% of the land surface. Four types were recognized such as sand sheets, sand dunes, sand drifts, and aeolian ‘wadi’ fill. Sand sheets prevail mostly in the northern part of the country as well as in considerable areas in the southern part of Kuwait. The mobile sand sheets which cause serious economic and social problems are the most common ones among all those aeolian deposits.
In the present study (phase-2) detailed sedimentomorphic maps will be prepared for five selected areas to complete the entire southern part of Kuwait as a continuation of phase-1 of this study. This will be done on the basis of remote-sensing data, geomorphological and sedimentological information by using topographic and geologic maps, aerial photographs, satellite images, sampling and field investigations along with GIS analysis.
150 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project Assessment of the Indoor Organic Pollutants Level in Selected Schools and Hospitals (2006-1401-06) L. Al-Awadi and A. Khan Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research Abstract Building complexes are designed and constructed to shelter us from the most unpleasant and unhealthy outdoor conditions and pollutants. However, reductions in ventilation rates to conserve energy and extensive use of new building materials, many of which emit organic compounds, and as a consequence, the indoor environment poses its own coercion of discomfort and damage to health. Research is urgently needed for accurate measurements of various containments that govern the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), where people spend more than 80% of their time in the enclosed environment. The present study will focus on establishing measuring techniques and quantifying aldehydes and other
VOCs concentration levels in the selected indoor sites. High CO2 concentrations and other pollutants result in sick building syndrome (SBS) (group of symptoms such as, allergy, dizziness, drowsiness and headache as a result of the unhealthy internal environment), which will be quantified in hospitals and schools. To mitigate indoor air pollutants concentration levels, it is required to determine the concentrations accurately and to identify the most probable sources. The findings of this research will facilitate preventive measures to abate indoor air quality problems. The measured concentrations of different pollutants will be compared with the national and international IAQ guidelines existing in the literature.
Measurement and Assessment of Radionuclide Concentrations in the Coastal Marine Environment (2007-1401-02)
A. Al-Ghadban and S. Uddin Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract The marine system is exposed to radiation from naturally occurring radionuclides (NORMs) as well as from anthropogenic sources such as power plant operation, nuclear testing and nuclear accidents. As such, monitoring of the radionuclides in the marine system of Kuwait is of paramount importance to Kuwait. This study falls within the national program on the Protection of the General Public and Environment in Kuwait that has been included in the Country Program Framework (CPF). This program is aimed at protecting the public and the country’s environment against risks associated with the presence of elevated levels of radionuclides arising from within the country and cross-border industrial and urbanization processes, ensuring the safe utilization of the environmental resources, i.e., drinking water supply and marine products (seafood). The study will be implemented within the framework of cooperation with IAEA’s Marine Environment Laboratory (Monaco). The main objective is to enhance the capacity-building of the country with the following specific objectives: 1) to establish alpha-beta-gamma radiation monitoring network for general assessment and identification of NORMs in the marine environment; 2) to establish baseline levels of radionuclides in the marine environment; and 3) to provide inputs for the preparedness and response plan to radiological emergency and nuclear accidents. The outputs of the project include sustainable monitoring levels and isotoic composition of radionucides in the marine environment of Kuwait, baseline levels of natural and anthropogenic radionuclides, capability for early identification and measurement of NORMs in case of pollution releases in the marine environment, and risk assessment. The experience that would be generated from the implementation of the project can be available to all concerned staff in the ministries and agencies. The project includes the following tasks; 1) design and implementation plan; 2) mobilization; 3) development of standard operating procedures; 4) sampling and analyses; 5) data processing and documentation; 6) risk assessment; 7) reporting. In general, this project will strengthen the capabilities and infrastructure in the country with respect to providing essential information to the authorities responsible for dealing with radiological safety (e.g. drinking water and seafood) and emergencies.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 151 Monitoring and Assessment of Dust Fallout and Associated Pollens within the Sate of Kuwait (2008-1401-01)
A. Al-Dousari Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract In Kuwait, dust (dust/sand storms, rising dust and suspended dust) occurs 13% of the time all through the year. This percentage reaches 25% of the daytime throughout April to August. Dust storms are usually responsible for the relatively high sand content in soils due to deflation of clay and silt particles that causes a decrease in soil fertility. The dust blows to Kuwait from the Mesopotamian flood plains in Iraq. Satellite images show new dust generation localities. The major processes that take place during the occurrence of dust storms are soil erosion, sediment suspension and deposition. Each process introduces a variety of environmental hazards. Furthermore, a lot of people in Kuwait are suffering from allergic diseases when the pollen starts to fly.
In this study, the monthly dust fallout will be collected simultaneously from sampling stations for maximum 24 month period. Maximum 50 dust collectors will be installed within the State of Kuwait. Pollens will also be collected maximum for a period of twenty-four months. Weather forecasting of the dust storms via satellite images from the weather stations will be identified. The results will be validated with the field observations and laboratory analysis. The main objective of this study is to delineate regional dust sources and to evaluate variable control measures within the State of Kuwait. Emphasis will be given to urban areas.
Synthesis, Characterization and Catalytic Activity of Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Powders and Suspensions (2008-1404-01)
A. Bumajdad Kuwait University
Abstract Research related to nanoscience and nanotechnology is very important to many industries, Kuwait is no exception, since it is an oil producing country with promising new industries. The application of nanoscience and nanotechnology to prepare efficient catalysts is one of the most important areas of research for Kuwait and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Thousands of tons of catalysts are used every year in the GCC countries. Hence, research projects that aim to enhance the efficiency and performance of such catalysts are of great value to the region.
This project aims to synthesize iron oxide nanoparticles to be used in petroleum industries. More specifically, the high surface area iron oxide will be used as environmental catalyst for reducing the formation of toxic carbon monoxide (CO) that is usually associated with any petroleum-based factories. The chemical strategy that will be used is known as ‘microemulsion templating’. The main objective of this synthetic strategy is diminution (dispersion) of solid iron oxide particles, preferably to the nano- scale by using water-in-oil micro emulsion stabilized by surfactant(s) molecules. Here the nucleation and growth of the iron oxide will be in core water pools (size is few nanometers). In order to fully understand the best conditions/variables for such synthesis, many factors will be tested (e.g. temperature, pH, microemulsion droplet size and concentration, surfactant concentration and type). The mechanism of particle formation and the stability of the nanoparticle suspensions in microemulsion will also be studied using spectrophotometric techniques.
152 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project The iron oxide nanoparticles prepared under different conditions will be subjected to thorough surface and bulk characterization. The surface texture will be assessed by nitrogen sorptiometry and electron microscopy and the chemical composition, by X-ray photoelectron and energy dispersive spectroscopies. Particle size and morphology will be determined employing electron microscopic techniques. The phase composition of crystalline domains will be determined by X-ray and electron diffraction techniques, whereas that of non-crystalline domains such as organic impurities will be determined by vibrational spectroscopic techniques (IR). Thermal stability of the bulk structure and composition will be explored under different gas atmospheres using thermal analysis techniques (TG, DTA and DSC). UV- spectrophotometry and stop-flow techniques will be used to reveal the mechanism of microemulsion droplet kinetics and nanoparticles formation.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 153 Social Sciences and Humanities
Subject Areas Anthropology and Archaeology Arts Communication Economics Education Geography History International Relations Language and Literature Law Library Science Management and Business Studies Military Science Philosophy Political Science Psychology Religion Sociology and Social Work
COMPLETED 11 ONGOING 3 NEW 11 RESEARCH IN SOCIAL SCIENCES IDENTIFY EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT MEASURES FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
In an attempt to develop educational intervention programs to benefit pre-schoolers and primary students with developmental problems, researchers implemented few modified test schemes and elicited valuable results on the performance of the children. One of the projects that examined the cost-efficiency of public schools in the State of Kuwait with the Tobit regression model and DEA technique, concluded on the overall economic efficiency of the schools for the selected six years. Another experimental study that introduced newly designed classroom techniques, recorded its positive impacts on university students’ attendance as well as academic performance, thus contributing to the development of the future of educational institutions. The core of a project that was funded during the year related to examining some of the learning problems in mathematics among Kuwaiti students. The second phase of new project, focusing on the development of teaching materials for management programs at the university level, was awarded a research grant during the fiscal year. Research into the translation of Arabic and English text and discourse and a comparative study of the neuronal correlates in English and Arabic were expected to shed new light into the study of languages in the region and have important implications for translators and literary groups. During the fiscal year, major work was ongoing, related to the printing, editing, and revising of sections of the Dictionary of the Holy Qur’an. Investigators from Kuwait University addressed the importance of the industrial sector’s effective commitment to environmental regulations and policies for sustainable economic growth in the nation. One of the studies, utilizing qualitative models to evaluate the role of small-scale industries towards the national economy, concluded its investigation during the year by recommending effective policies for long-term development of the sector. A strategic survey of the insurance companies in the State of Kuwait concluded during the year by highlighting the crucial role of organizational commitment and training programs within the sector for future development. During the fiscal year, studies examining various attributes of the Kuwaiti financial institutions highlighted the significance of utilizing expert systems for efficient performance and productivity. Cross-sectional analytical studies continued to survey the demand for healthcare in the State of Kuwait as well as the prevalence of genetic diseases. Work was also underway on a population-based study to provide descriptive statistical indicators, subsequent to computerizing the registry of common genetic disorders in the country. Results of investigations on the levels of job satisfaction among employees in government offices were expected to have valuable implications not only on the general understanding of the social or organizational or behavioral psychology, but also on the vital decision-making process and the policy-makers in the country. An ongoing project investigating the trends of the Kuwaiti real estate market for the years 2000- 2007, provided some leading economic indicators, while also developing econometric models to gauge investments and commercial aspects of the sector. Some of the recently-sponsored projects focused on evaluating the economic benefits of re-structuring the price of water and improving the conditions at the Kuwaiti ports by addressing the shortcomings in order to promote effective and efficient measures for further advancement in the area. Some of the key issues of a project dealt with familial relationships and the corresponding impacts on behavioral tendencies. Studies also proposed to examine the various criteria for the selection of marital partners and highlight the nature of changes that had taken place over the past few years.
155 Study of the Feeding Behavior and its Relation to a Child’s Physical and Psychological Development from Birth till the End of the Second Year (2002-1102-02)
F. Al-Enizi1, F. Al-Qintar2 and M. Ibrahim1 Public Authority for Applied Education and Training1 and Arab Open University2
Abstract This study aimed at investigating the maternal and infant feeding behavioral patterns and practices in the Kuwaiti society and the related impacts on babies from birth till the age of two. The study also attempted to determine the timeframe during which the baby progressed from breast-feeding to normal foodstuff. The study endeavored to determine the impacts of economic, social and educational factors on feeding behavior and the baby’s nourishment and growth. The study also investigated the relationship between the baby’s feeding patterns and the physical growth, health condition and psychological status as well as the nature of relationship with the mother.
Project Description The authors adopted two hypotheses that were - The mother’s occupation impacted her breast- tested during the study. The first hypothesis feeding behavior. There existed a fundamental propounded that there were fundamental difference between a working mother and differences in the way mothers feed or nourish a housewife, as the former tended to use their babies with respect to several variables the bottle more often to feed her baby, as that include mother’s age, educational level, compared to the latter. occupation, baby’s sex and place of residence - The higher the mother’s education level, the (rural areas/city). The second hypothesis dealt with less she resorted to breast-feeding. the nature of the relationship between the feeding behavioral characteristics and the baby’s physical - The family income or the number of maids growth, health condition and psychological status in the house did not have any effect on the (temperament or mood and sleep disorders). The feeding behavior. two levels of study included the cross-sectional - Past experience in breast-feeding had a positive study and longitudinal study. impact on the increase in the percentage of mothers who breast-fed their babies. The cross-sectional study comprised of a sample of 581 mothers selected from various sections of - Mothers who had normal delivery (without the Kuwaiti society, of which 325 were working anesthetization or caesarean operation) mothers, while the remaining 256 were housewives. tended to breast-feed their babies more often The longitudinal study comprised of a sample of than those who resorted to anesthetization or 169 babies (95 males and 74 females) selected caesarean operation during delivery. form three governorates in Kuwait, including the - The study underlined the importance of early Capital, Hawalli and Al-Jahra. The babies were contact, particularly through the sense of monitored from the second month of birth till the touch due to its impact on the mother’s breast- completion of the second year. feeding behavior. Conclusions and Recommendations - Mothers who breast-fed believed that their babies were happier, tended to cry less and Results of the cross-sectional study indicated showed less anger, as compared to those the following: babies who were not breast-fed. - A young mother adopted modern practices to - The study did not show any adverse effects nourish her baby and she tended to use the of feeding behavior, such as, development of bottle more often. Hence, the younger the any infant-related illnesses such as, diarrhea, mother, the higher was the tendency to opt for respiratory inflammations, middle-ear infection, artificial feeding practices. etc. On the contrary, babies who were fed from bottles showed vulnerability to recurring respiratory inflammations, as compared to their peers.
156 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project - A mother who did not rely upon breast- Introduction of fluid and solid foodstuff during feeding as a primary source of food, tended the early stage of the baby’s growth: to force the baby to consume foodstuff. This implied that the baby would develop early - During the second year, the baby gradually feeding behavioral disorders and subsequent started to adapt with the family system. At tendency to reject foodstuff. the end of the second year, almost all babies started to have their meals with the rest With respect to the baby’s feeding habits, results of the family members. This indicated the of the longitudinal study indicated the following: baby’s gradual tendency to adapt with the - There was reduction in the percentage of family environment where it started to have breast-feeding in mothers (48%), and decline meals. The baby also started to rely on itself in the baby’s average feeding time period (77 in consuming food, thus ascertaining the days). This percentage was reduced further tendency towards independence. to 25% during the fifth month and it started - The results obtained suggested that there to reduce again to 8-10% during the tenth was little likelihood for a mother who did not month. It then maintained the same trend until breast-feed her baby during the first delivery, the beginning of the second year of the baby’s to do the same in the following deliveries. This life, when it started to gradually disappear. indicated how important it was for a young mother to be aware of the value of breast- - Babies depending on breast-feeding as the feeding, both for herself and for the baby. only source of food did not exceed 4% of the total sample of babies investigated. In - Results did not show the effects of the addition to breast-feeding, most of the babies following variables on breast-feeding: who consumed artificially-processed milk mother’s occupation, mother’s educational and were fed from bottles were much higher level and baby’s sex. However, the percentage in number than those mothers who breast- of breast-feeding was higher as the mother’s fed. Also, the duration of a single feed from educational level dropped. the bottle was much greater than that of the - The timing of feeding (specific hours or upon breast-feeding mothers. This result suggested request) was not affected by the following the dwindling importance of breast-feeding in variables: mother’s age, mother’s occupation the case of both the mother and the baby. and mother’s educational level.
- Discontinuation of breast-feeding was not - There was deprivation of early sensual contact in response to the baby’s growth, nor was between the mother and the baby. it a result of the baby’s development to an appropriate age. Rather, it came as a result of Acknowledgements several factors, the most important of which were as follows: The authors would like to extend their deepest • Inadequacy of the mother’s milk. gratitude to the mothers, babies and research assistants who contributed to this study. The • Baby’s rejection to breast-feeding. financial support rendered by KFAS, particularly the staff members of the Research Directorate is - The study also confirmed the declining very much appreciated. importance given to breast-feeding, the mother’s reluctance to breast-feed her baby References and the quick reliance on bottles in baby feeding. Al-Ayed IH, Qureshi MI, (1998) Breast-feeding Practices in Urban Riyadh, Journal of Tropical - Most mothers gradually discontinued breast- Pediatrics 44 (2) 113 – 7. feeding their babies and they avoided administering any applications to their breasts. Stuart – Macadam P, and Dettwyler K.A. The majority of the babies (87%) did not show (Eds) (1995) Breastfeeding, Bio-cultural any response to the discontinuity of breast- Perspectives, Aladine: New York. feeding by their mothers. This ascertained Rice P. R. (2000) Baby, souls, name and health: previous results regarding the dwindling traditional customs for a newborn infant importance of breast-feeding. among the Hmong in Melbourne, Early Human Development, 57, 189 – 203.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 157 Standardization of the Wechsler Pre-school and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI-III) - Phase 2 (2002-1109-02)
F. Hadi and S. Morad Kuwait University
Abstract This project represents the second phase of developing and standardizing tests for pre-school children in order to develop suitable intervention programs to help children who are at risk of any developmental problems. The lack of standardized tests, to assess pre-school children ranging from 3 to 7 years old, led to the undertaking of this project. The project took three years to be completed, reviewing tests available in both Arab and western culture, ending and developing items for the fourteen sub-scale tests.
The first and second pilot testing was conducted on a sample of children who ranged from 2 years and 9 months to 7 years and 3 months. Reliability estimates for the two pilot testing ranged from 0.70 to 0.98. Standardization study was conducted on a sample of 1574 children and reliability estimates ranged from 0.75 to 0.97 in the sub-scale tests. No significant differences were found between genders, whereas developmental differences were found between age levels. Percentile and Deviant IQ norms estimated with a mean=100 and SD=15 for both age levels, 2 years and 9 months to 3 years and 11 months, and 4 to 7 years and 3 months.
Project Description Wechsler Pre-school and Primary Scale of Standardization study was conducted on a Intelligence (WPPSI-III) consists of 14 sub-scales sample of 1574 children who ranged from 2 years (7 verbal and 7 performances). Two forms of the and 9 months to 7 years and 3 months based test were designed. The first one intended to test on gender, nationality and educational variables. children aged 2 years and 9 months to 3 years Data was analyzed to determine differences and and 11 months, consisting of five sub-scales (3 develop norms for each age level for verbal IQ, verbal and 2 performances). The second one Performance IQ and Total IQ. was designed for children aged 4 to 7 years and 3 months, with fourteen sub-scales (4 arbitrary: Conclusions and Recommendations picture naming, receptive vocabulary, coding and symbol search). The results of standardization analysis showed no gender differences for each sub-scale, whereas First pilot testing study was conducted on a developmental differences were found between sample of 190 children who ranged from 2 years age levels. Reliability estimates ranged from 0.75- and 9 months to 7 years and 3 months. Data was 0.97. Scaled scores were estimated for each statistically analyzed by using SPSS package and sub-scale with a mean=10 and SD=3 for each based on item analysis. Some items were modified age levels, respectively. Scaled scores were and in some cases were deleted. Reliability was used to estimate percentile and deviant IQ norms estimated ranging from 0.77 to 0.97. The second (mean=100, SD=15) for each age level for verbal pilot testing was conducted on a sample of 385 IQ, performance IQ and total IQ. children. Reliability estimates for this pilot testing ranged from 0.70 to 0.98. No gender difference Acknowledgements was found; whereas, developmental differences were found between age levels. Key scoring, basal The project leaders are grateful for the generous and ceiling points were developed for each sub- financial support from Kuwait Foundation for the scale. Advancement of Sciences for this study.
158 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project References Horn, J. L. (1991). Measurement of intellectual capabilities: A review of theory. In K. S. Abou-Allam, R. (1994). Kuwait McCarthy scales McGrew, J. K. Werder, & R. W. Woodcock, for children’s abilities. Dar Alkam: Kuwait. WJ-R technical manual (pp. 197-232). Itasca, Abou- Alaam, R. & Mursi, K. (1989). Kuwait IL: Riverside. Stanford Binet scale for Intelligence. Ministry of Education, Kuwait. Wechsler, D. (1958). The measurement and appraisal of adult intelligence (4th ed.). American Educational Research Association, Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins. American Psychological Association, & National Council on Measurment in Education Wechsler, D. (1975). Intelligence defined and (1985). Standards for Educational and undefined: A relativistic appraisal. American Psychological Testing. Washington: American Psychologist, 30, 135-139. Psychological Association. Wechsler, D. (1989). Manual for the Wechsler Gyurke, J. S., Stone, B. J., & Beyer, M. (1990). A Pre-school and Primary Scale of Intelligence confirmatory factor analysis of the WIPPSI-R. –Revised. San Antonio, TX: The Psychological Journal of Psychoeducational Assessment, 8, Corporation. 15-21. Wechsler, D. (2002). Manual for the Wechsler Pre- Hadi, F.; Murad, S. & Al-Fayez, Q. (2002). Kuwait school and Primary Scale of Intelligence (3rd Screening Test for pre-schoolers Children. Edition). San Antonio, TX: The Psychological Kuwait Society for the Advancement of Arab Corporation. Children, Kuwait
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 159 Small-Scale Industries in Kuwait: Reality, Future Status, Obstacles and its Role in Development (2003-1103-03)
M. BuShehri, W. Behbahani, M. Al-Asour, N. Abdulmalek, S. Al-Shamali and M. Al-Mutairi Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Small-scale industries (SSIs) are part of small enterprises that play a critical role in economic development by providing the large-scale industries with inward and backward linkages, required to perform effectively. SSIs face numerous challenges that hamper their performance and contribution to economic development. The main objective of this project was to assess the role of SSIs and their contribution to the economic development of Kuwait, with respect to a number of factors that include: the enlargement of the industrial base, diversification of income, job creation and training of the indigenous labor force.
Project Description In order to achieve the objectives of the project, annual subsidy between K.D. 359,000 and work was divided into six sections. Each section K.D. 817, 000. addressed a specific problem faced by the SSIs. In order to increase the role of SSIs in sustainable Following were the major goals within the sections: development, it was recommended that the 1. Review the different economic theory pertinent government adopt a of high-value-added strategy to SSIs and evaluate specific studies related to that was based on establishing a financial portfolio these industries. of K.D. 1.34 billion to finance and establish SSIs, 2. Design a field survey to collect data and which produce or render services similar to those information related to these industries. abroad. The cost of adopting such a strategy 3. Develop indicators related to the productivity, would be around K.D. 3.25 billion and the benefits manpower, competitiveness in the SSIs and would amount to K.D. 4.25 billion; hence, the total compare them with large-scale industries. benefit would be around K.D. 1 billion. 4. Highlight the role of SSIs in sustaining the economic development. Moreover, such a strategy would create 26,800 5. Design a roadmap based on solid plan for jobs for the Kuwaiti nationals and raise the improving the small-scale industry sector in contribution of the industrial sector in the GDP to Kuwait. around 3% (from 2.2% to 5%) in the next ten years. 6. Recommend long-term policies to enhance the role and effectiveness of SSIs for economic Acknowledgements development.
The project team would like to acknowledge Conclusions and Recommendations the financial support of Kuwait Foundation for The outcome of this project showed that SSIs the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) and its play a limited role in the economic development continued interest in promoting scientific research. of Kuwait, since their contributions to the industrial productivity and the GDP were around 1.5% and References 0.83% respectively. Based on the field survey of those involved in small-scale industries and the Armario, J., S. Ruiz, and E. Armario. 2008. Market owners, it was revealed that this sector faced orientation and internationalization in small and many challenges, one of which was the difficulty medium-sized enterprises. Journal of Small in obtaining financial support for this sector’s Business Management, 46: 485-511. sustainability and success. The rise in the sector’s BuShehri, M., W. Behbehani, M. Al-Asfour, H. Al- production cost, when compared to large-scale Mufarej, N. Abdulmalek, S. Al-Shamali, and M. enterprises in the same activity, estimated to 30%. Al-Mutari. 2009. Small scale industries in the State of Kuwait: Reality, future status, obstacles A quantitative model was developed in this study and its role in development (TQ004C). Kuwait to evaluate the value of the industrial subsidies Institute for Scientific Research, Report No. given to the SSIs, which was around K.D.10,000 KISR9774, Kuwait. per annum, while the large-scale industries got an
160 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project Dean, J., S. Homes, and S. Smith. 1996. Business Newby, R., and R. Morris. Newcastle Australia: networks: Growth options manufacturing and University of Newcastle, pp. 57-69. service sector comparisons. Smith, C. 2007. On governance and agency Proceedings, Joint SEAANZ and IIE Small issues in small firms. Journal of Small Business Enterprise Conference. Edited by B. Gibson, Management, 45: 176-178.
25 present situation 20 high-value-added strategy
15
10
Percentages 5
0 Years 2011 2010 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Fig 1. Total Labor Force in Industrial Sector.
6 present situation 5 high-value-added strategy 4 3 2 Percentages 1
0 Years 2011 2010 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Fig 2. Contribution of the Industrial Sector towards Local Production.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 161 Economic Assessment of the Kuwaiti Industrial Sector Commitment to Environmental Regulations, Policies and Strategies in the Context of WTO (2004-1106-01)
J. Hajji Kuwait University
Abstract Sustainable economic growth of the industrial sector depends on the careful exploitation of the economic resources and the preservation of natural resources. Related literature cites several issues that should be considered for attaining economic sustainability, such as, technology, human resources management, production, storage, administration, accounting system and other economic and social aspects. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which different Kuwaiti industries complied with regulations imposed by World Trade Organization. The methodologies employed in this study were Factor, Discriminant and Logit analyses.
Project Description The main aims of the study were to explain and There also existed discrepancy in valid data and analyze to what extent industrial firms in Kuwait information. complied with regulations and rules of SPS, WTO and TBT and to measure the direct and indirect The study concluded that the industrial sector impacts on their output, using input-output must adhere to Quality Assurance Program and computable general equilibrium models. A management to acquire ISO certifications. comprehensive literature review was undertaken; empirical experiences were recorded and The responses were varied, depending on the size industries were surveyed using a comprehensive of the industry (see Fig. 1). tested questionnaire. The information was then collected and analyzed. The study recommended several vital, urgent measures/polices to be implemented by industrial Conclusions and Recommendations firms in Kuwait such as follows:
The results indicated that the following were - Support and promote joint research and lacking: studies with continuous monitoring of industrial performance. - Criteria and regulations. - Good accounting system. - Issue a general Guide that includes policies, regulations, processes, aims - Databases, indicators and information and information that concerns industrial system. environmental protection and economic - Basic environmental information. costs. - Quantitative measures on environmental - Develop skills, production and technology. impact cost. - Environmental protection from negative - Establish data, information, indicators, and impacts. decision-support system. - Health and safety for employees. Acknowledgements - Just policies for recruitment. - Investment in activities related to The project team extends gratitude to the environmental protection. Ministry of Health and Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for their - Consumer concern. financial support and co-operation throughout the - Environmental procedures for legal execution of the project. violations.
162 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project References Linowes D.F., Socio-Economic Accounting; The Journal of Accountancy, November, 1968, Ansari, Shahid., Bell, Jan., Klammer, Tom and pp. 41-46. Lawrence, Carol: “Measuring and Managing Environmental Costs”, Version.1.0, Richard D. Mclntosh P.T, Roberson. T, “Cost Benefit Analysis Irwin, (1997) pp. 2-11 in The HK: Some Aspects of Procedures and Experience”, Industry and Environment - Gray, R., Bebbington, J. and Walters, D., Special Issue-n2-198. Accounting for the Environment (London: The Chartered Association of Certified Accountants, Munasinghe, M. (1993), “Economist’s, Approach 1993), pp. 183-189. to sustainable Development”, Finance and Development, Vol. 30, No.4, December, pp.19. Hershaft, A., et al., Critical Review of Air Pollution Dose-Effect Function, Op. Cit., p. 17.
35 33
30 29 25 25 24 19 19 20 16 14 Medium Industries 15 12 Large Industries 10 9
5
0
Totally Agree Agree Somewhat Agree Disagree Totally Disagree
Fig. 1. Parameters used to review industrial commitment.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 163 Strategic Evaluation of Life Insurance in the State of Kuwait (2006-1103-04)
A. Taqi Public Authority for Applied Education and Training
Abstract
The increased demand in the State of Kuwait for life insurance is part of the general awareness of the modern concepts for a better future. Life insurance producers in the Kuwaiti insurance companies have had a great deal of importance (the producer is a person who gets commission as a lump-sum for any new life insurance policy subscription). Therefore, the current study focused on life insurance producers in the Kuwaiti insurance companies.
The main objective of this exploratory study was to determine the demographic dimensions affecting organizational commitment and rehabilitation through training programs. A sample of 200 producers from four major insurance companies in Kuwait was selected and studied.
Results of the study showed a significant positive relationship between nationality, age, scientific qualification and length of service with organizational commitment. Furthermore, results indicated that producers with 5 or more years of experience had more job satisfaction. Elements affecting job satisfaction were career planning and self-respect. The study suggested better management insight via training course and official and informal meetings between life-insurance producers and their superiors.
Project Description The role of producers is very important in the employee morale featured as one of the rare economics of free markets (Bloom & Hough, issues in management in the Third World, in 2003), for example, more than 28 million people in general, and Kuwait, in particular. Studies that the United States were employed in this profession addressed such issues (Buttner, 2004) suggested (according to Labor Department statistics, 2005). that such practices had important implications Producers are the reflection of the relationship on the organization as they affected the behavior between institutions involved in life insurance of individual workers as well as their attitudes to development and their customers as they work. represent the only body which links customers with marketing organization. It is particularly so, A study in Saudi Arabia on the relationship as researchers consider producers as an essential between the government employees and element for the success of the organization in the organizations, threw good light on the employee long run. and the organization, as it maximized individual expectations and decreased turnover. Among other core issues, studies and research in this area were focused on how to motivate The main objective of this exploratory study was to producers or life insurance sales-person. determine the demographic dimensions affecting Accordingly, attempts were made by many organizational commitment and rehabilitation researchers in developed countries (Sujan, through training programs. A sample of 200 1999) and studies had identified sales-person as producers from four major insurance companies motivating vendors with their expectations, and in Kuwait was selected. intentions to achieve their set goals. Major findings were as follows: Despite the fact that previous studies in western 1. Results of the study showed a significant journals confirmed that there was a high correlation positive relationship between nationality, between the management practices and working age, scientific qualification and length of with various behaviorial aspects of the labor service with organizational commitment. force, the study of management practices and
164 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 2. Regarding job satisfaction, producers Table 2. Motivation Factors on Training programs with 5 years of experience had more job The co- satisfaction than those with less than 5 Independent Beta F Value efficient of years of experience. The two most effective Variables Value elements affecting job satisfaction were determination Motivation career development and self-fulfillment, as 0.185 ** 7.342 0.260 depicted in Table 1. Factors Competition 0.163 ** 9.223 0.345 Table 1. Life Insurance Producers’ Job Satisfaction Factors
Factors Mean Std. Dev. E Std. Dev. Conclusions and Recommendations
Performance 31.141 1.116 5.523 1. Attempt should be made to link policies, objectives and plans of producers and those Career of the sector, departments and branches. 23.353 1.455 6.546 development 2. Upgrade information technology to effectively Mutual 38.977 .811 3.649 serve the organizational chart. relations 3. Promote management education through Policies & 29.762 1.222 8.366 training courses and formal and informal procedures meetings between producers, supervisors Self-fulfilment 27.245 1.456 9.588 and logistic personnel. 4. Set up an integrated view of the role and terms of reference of the producers and give them Responsibilities 39.131 2.659 11.011 sufficient authority to direct their functions effectively. Salary 20.985 1.533 5.934 satisfaction The study emphasized on the role of organizational Current job 21.237 .569 2.989 commitment in life insurance through training programs.
Supervision 41.321 1.346 7.344 Acknowledgements
The project team is grateful for the financial Work condition 35.879 1.254 7.232 support from Gulf Insurance Company and Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences. Overall job 306.644 6.113 33.756 satisfaction References
3. There was a relation between the number Bloom K. C., Hough M. C. (2003) Student of training courses and optimism about satisfaction with technology-enhanced career development. The effect of elements learning. Compute Information Nurse. Sep- of encouragement and competition factors Oct;21(5):241-6. on training programs appeared to be weak, Sujan H. (1999) Optimism and Street-Smarts: 26% and 35% respectively. Table 2 shows Identifying and Improving Salesperson that training programs provide only 27% of Intelligence. Journal of Personal Selling and optimism about career development. Sales Management 19 (3):71 - 33.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 165 The Impact of Performance Efficiency and Productivity of Islamic and Traditional Financial Institutions and Banking on the Kuwaiti Economy (2006-1103-05)
A. Marafie Burgan Group Holding
Abstract Most of the financial and industrial firms are facing issues related to determining and measuring efficiency and performance productivity. Therefore, a significant attention should be given to changing and fluctuating productive and economic efficiency in traditional and Islamic financial sector in the economy. The existing literature review addressed several factors affecting productivity and efficiency, some of them related to internal environment and others to external environment. Therefore, the fluctuations and volatility in the financial sector in Kuwaiti market and factors affecting productivity and efficiency have been thoroughly investigated using the most advanced statistical techniques and econometric models. Primary and secondary data were collected, analyzed and used for the outcome of this study.
Project Description An extensive critical review and analysis of While comparing the performance and efficiency literature and empirical experiences was carried of Islamic and traditional financial firms, the study out, besides intensive interviews with top and indicated that the Islamic financial firms were medium managers in traditional and Islamic doing much better (16.8%) than the traditional financial institutions in Kuwait. ones in several aspects.
The classification used in the study was based The study highly recommended the use of on the size criteria (small, medium and large) databases and decision-support and expert and firms operating in comprehensive or partial systems as vital elements for improving the Islamic financial system. A comprehensive productivity of financial firms. questionnaire was developed, distributed, collected and analyzed. Time series data for Acknowledgements econometric models were collected, categorized, updated and predicted, in addition to determining We do appreciate very much all the financial all the variables and parameters of the models. and administrative support that were provided Econometric model, input output model CGE by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of models also were used in the analysis. Sciences.
Conclusions and Recommendations References
The results of the analyses showed that there Allen, L. and A. Rai. (2006). “Operational Efficiency were factors determining and affecting productive in Banking: An International Comparison” and economic efficiency in the financial sector in Journal of Banking and Finance 20, 655-72. Kuwait. Banker, R.D., A. Charnes and W. W. Cooper. (2001). “Some Models for Estimating Technical The factors included invention of new financial and Scale Inefficiencies in Data Envelopment products, developing of human resources Analysis” Management Science (9), 1078- management and financial technology. Database 1092. and decision-support system and macro- economic variables were employed to measure Banker, R.D. and R. Morey. (2007). “Efficiency the productive and technical productivity and Analysis for Exogenously Fixed Inputs and efficiency of the traditional and Islamic financial Outputs” Operations Research 34(4), 513-521. institutions in the Kuwaiti market.
166 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 90 80 77.4 73.3 70 60 48.7 50 46.15 Agree 40 36 34.6 8QGHFLGHG 3HUFHQWDJH 30 Disagree 19.25 20 15.3 13.3 13.4 12.9 9.7 10 0 large size PHGLXPVL]H VPDOOVL]H WRWDO ¿QDQFLDO¿UPV ¿QDQFLDO¿UPV ¿QDQFLDO¿UPV
Fig. 1. Opinion Survey Results: Important factors govern the efficiency and productivity of financial firms.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 167 An Assessment of Cost Structure and Efficiency of Public Schools in the State of Kuwait (2006-1109-01)
N. Burney, J. Johnes, M. Al-Enezi, M. Al-Ramadhan, M. Al-Musallam, S. Hamada, N. Al-Musallam, G. Al-Essa, A. Al-Khayat and F. Al-Husaini Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract This study provides an assessment of the efficiency of public schools in Kuwait. To examine school efficiency, a two-stage approach was adopted. In the first stage, different measures of efficiency (including pure technical efficiency, overall technical efficiency, scale efficiency, price efficiency, and economic efficiency) were estimated using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) technique. In the second stage, relationship between school characteristics and pure technical efficiency was established using Tobit regression model. As curricula, teaching techniques, assessment methods, teachers’ qualification and experience, and other factors vary across different school levels, the analysis was conducted separately for kindergarten, primary, intermediate and secondary schools. Furthermore, to determine any changes in efficiency over the years, the different efficiency measures and regression models were estimated for six different selected years, 1979/80, 1984/85, 1989/90, 1994/95, 1999/00, and 2004/05. The findings of the study are expected to help educational authorities in Kuwait in formulating appropriate policies towards improving school efficiency.
Project Description To accomplish the objectives of the study, the work and across school levels, implying that the was divided into five tasks. The first task dealt with schools employ far more resources for the levels collection of the necessary data for the analysis. of enrolled students. In other words, the levels of For each public school in Kuwait, data on number enrolled students can be obtained by employing of enrolled students, number of passing students, fewer resources. In addition to low technical number of national and expatriate teachers, efficiency, there is evidence that the public schools number of class rooms, average annual salary of in Kuwait (particularly kindergarten, primary, and teachers and different school cost components intermediate) do not operate at their optimum size were collected for the six selected years. The (i.e., the scale efficiency is low). A large majority second task examined public expenditure on of the schools were found to be operating under different levels of education, cost structure of public increasing returns to scale, and so could be more schools, and trends in cost per student on the basis efficient by expanding in size. The analysis further of annual time series data covering the period showed that the schools suffer from inefficiencies from 1984/85 to 2006/07. The third task undertook due to employing inputs in non-optimal an overview of different concepts of efficiency, proportions, as reflected by the price or allocative available methods for examining efficiency, and efficiency, which suggests that the improvements empirical literature on efficiency of schools. The in school efficiency can be made in terms of the fourth task utilized Data Envelopment Analysis way in which inputs are combined to produce (DEA) technique to estimate different measures of output. As a consequence of the technical, scale, efficiency and estimated Tobit regression models and price inefficiencies, the overall economic to establish relationship between technical efficiency of the public schools in Kuwait was low. efficiency and school characteristics for each level The efficiency of all girls’ schools was found to be of public schools in Kuwait for the selected years. superior compared to that of all boys’ schools. The final task related to preparation of the report, In general, schools across different educational which also included the main findings of the study districts (Al-Ahmadi, Al-Aasimah, Al-Farwaniya, and an executive summary. Hawally, Mubarak Al-Kabir, and Al-Jahra) were found to be equally good or bad in converting Conclusions and Recommendations school inputs into output, implying that there was no policy bias in allocating resources to any Based on the analyses, the main finding of the study particular region. Also, the evidence suggested was that the technical efficiency of public schools that higher teacher salary tended to improve in Kuwait is low and has varied over the years school efficiency, which emphasizes the need for
168 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project more qualified and experienced teachers to of Sciences (KFAS), and cooperation of the staff increase efficiency. Finally, it has been found that at the Ministry of Education (MOE) in getting the an increase in the proportion of Kuwaiti teachers necessary data for the study. has affected technical efficiency of schools References adversely. This was a concern, as during the last few years authorities in Kuwait had pursued Amemiya, T. 1984. Tobit models: A Survey. Journal a policy of replacing expatriate teachers with the of Econometric 24(1-2): 3-61. nationals. It could be that, in the process, more Burney, N.A., M.A. Al-Ramadhan, B. Khalaf, experienced and qualified teachers were being A. Hoque, and R. Dashti. 1995. Fiscal replaced by relatively young, inexperienced and constraints, cost efficiency of social services, less qualified teachers. and determination and evaluation of fees on users. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Further investigation into why this result occurs Report No. KISR4712, Kuwait. (possibly using a case study approach) should be undertaken. It is possible that additional Burney, N.A., N. Al-Musallam, S. Al-Fulaij, and W. training and support for the new teachers should Awadh. 2002. Public expenditure on education be provided in an effort to improve teachers and in Kuwait. Kuwait Institute for Scientific school efficiency. Research, Report No. KISR6738, December. Kuwait. The results of this study can be utilized by the CSO. 2007a. Annual Statistical Abstract. Central policy-makers and decision-makers in the field of Statistical Office, Ministry of Planning, Kuwait. education in formulating policies for the sector, and academics and researchers in economics and CSO. 2007b. Government Finance Statistics. its related fields. Central Statistical Office, Ministry of Planning, Kuwait. Acknowledgements Hanushek, E. A. 1986. The economics of schooling: production and efficiency in public The project team acknowledges the financial schools. Journal of Economic Literature 24: support of Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement 1141-1177
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 169 Enhancing the Attendance of College-Level Students Based on Applied Classroom Management Techniques (2007-1109-02)
Z. Al-Shammari and T. Yawkey Gulf University for Science and Technology and Pennsylvania State University
Abstract This research investigation is an experimental research study that focuses on designing classroom management techniques such as Classroom Attendance Management Techniques (CAMTS) and Classroom Attendance Rules (CARs) to enhance attendance of college-level students. This experimental research includes several sections including significance of the study, code definitions and applications of CAMTs and CARs and their development. Other sections are: literature review and research methods, including two participant group samples: one control group and the other, an experimental treatment group. Included as well are verification and reliability methods, data collection, analysis and results for each of the two semesters of experimental study. Results indicated improvements in both student attendance and overall final grades, and positive correlations between student attendance and overall final grades during both fall and spring semesters. Conclusions and recommendations are addressed in the light of the results found in this research study.
Project Description Student attendance plays a significant role in relative to the CAMTs and CARs); and (3) revisions enhancing and improving student achievement in to CAMTs and CARs. university classes. The experimental study focused The attendance strategy was mainly characterized on designing effective classroom management by implementing newly designed CAMTs that techniques such as CAMTs and CARs that required new CARs, using three different colors. enhance student attendance in university classes. Each of the colors indicated a specific type A vast number of research studies (Roman, 2007; of attendance. For example, when a student Handler, 2008 and Rosas & West, 2009) support the attended on time, this was noted in green, delayed current experimental study in terms of purposes, attendance in blue and absent in red. procedures of developing the CAMTs and CARs, and the results indicated improvements in student Data on students’ attendance was collected attendance and achievements. by research assistants in each of the assigned classes during the semesters. They gathered data Two groups of students, enrolled in education in specific attendance forms and coded them in courses, were selected for participation in the the attendance system designed for this purpose. experimental study during the academic year The researcher analyzed the data by using several 2008-2009. Firstly, 19 female students were statistical tests, such as a Shapiro-Wilk test, t-test, enrolled in each control group and experimental Pearson Correlation test, parametric–t tests, group in the fall semester. Secondly, 16 female non-parametric tests, Mann-Whitney U Test and students were enrolled in each control group and Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. experimental group in the spring semester. The principal researcher initially conducted a class Conclusions and Recommendations activity during the summer semester of 2006-2007. The experimental study focused on how to design This activity allowed students to propose a basic effective classroom management techniques such listing of attendance requirements and class rules as CAMTs and CARs. This study examined the that encouraged them to attend university classes. designed classroom techniques during both the Based on that, the researcher (also the instructor fall and spring semesters for the academic year, of the class) developed the CAMTs and CARs. 2008-2009. Results were analyzed for both fall and The principal researcher examined CAMTs and spring semester. CARs through a three-step process of verification Firstly, the fall semester results indicated four and reliability. This involved: (1) modification of important results: the experimental group had a CAMTs and CARs; (2) assessment by ten 10 faculty higher mean (81.7) than the control group (79.4); experts in the field of education (Cronbach’s Alpha it demonstrated that the effect of applying the = 0.92) indicating a high degree of agreement and CAMs and CARs techniques in the experimental demonstrating conformity to internal constructs research study was significant (P > 0.05); there
170 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project was 84% improvement in the experimental group, In conclusion, the results of both semesters (fall compared to the control group – the percentage and spring) indicated that all results supported of student attendance improvement was 8.4% for the purposes of this experimental research study each student individually in the experimental group; by designing effective classroom management and there was a positive significant correlation techniques (CAMTs and CARs), which enhanced (0.864) between the on-time attendance variable student attendance and directly improved and overall grades in the experimental group. In students’ overall grades and achievements. addition, the results indicated that the students The results found in this experimental study is who attended, delayed or missed classes had expected to benefit all colleges, universities, and decreased overall grades (see Fig. 1). other educational institutions in Kuwait that need effective classroom management techniques (CAMTs and CARs) to enhance student attendance and achievements. The recommendations addressed in the light of results found in this experimental research study are as follows: 1. The university attendance policy needs to be re-visited and examined carefully in the light of the results of this study as well as related studies. This could positively assist the learning and education potential of all students. 2. Future research should replicate and extend Fig. 1. Relation (Correlation) between Overall Grades the design and methods of this study and On-time, Delayed and Missed classes in Experimental Group (Fall Semester). in examining the impacts of classroom management techniques (CAMTs, CARs). The Secondly, regarding the spring semester results, researchers of this study would recommend the researcher re-examined CAMTs and CARs and time (or extra meetings outside the classroom) used the same procedures applied for collecting and to obtain students’ opinions on increasing and analyzing data. These procedures also indicated refining the types and numbers of CAMs and four major important results: the experimental group CARs used in their classrooms. had a higher mean (88.8) than the control group (84.2); the difference was significant (P > 0.05); Acknowledgements improvement in the student attendance was about Gulf University for Science and Technology 4.6% for each student in the experimental group; and (GUST) and the principal researcher would like to there was a positive, significant correlation (0.441) thank KFAS for funding this research project. between the on-time attendance variable and the overall grades in the experimental group (Fig. 2). References 50 Handler, D. (2008). The Relational-behavior model: The relationship between intrinsic motivational 40 instruction and extrinsic motivation in 30 On-Time psychologically based instruction. Delayed Roman, D. (2007). Teaching strategies used 20 Missed to maintain classroom order. Masters in Educational Leadership, Marygrove College. 10 Rosas, C., & West, M. (2009). Teachers beliefs 0 about classroom management: Pre-service 80Dgre e 90 100 and in-service teachers’ beliefs about classroom management. International Journal Fig. 2. Relation (Correlation) between Overall Grades of Applied Educational Studies, 5(1), 54-61. and On Time, Delayed and Missed Classes in Experimental Group (Spring Semester).
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 171 Domesticating Pragmatics, Texture and Culture in Translation (2007-1109-03)
M. Al-Hamly and M. Farghal Kuwait University
Abstract The project investigates the theme of domestication in three main areas, namely, at the pragmatic, textual and cultural levels when translating between Arabic and English. The major objectives of the research project were as follows: 1. To show how the translator’s intervention at the level of pragmatics is necessary, in order to take account of the mismatches in illocutionary force, degree of explicitness and norms of politeness between the source language (SL) and target language (TL). 2. To show how the translator’s awareness of textual norms in the SL and TL is the key to offering a natural/ idiomatic translation. 3. To show how the domestication of culturally loaded elements is a translational requirement in order to guarantee comprehensibility and avoid communication breakdowns.
The research project concluded by stating the following: • The translator should be aware of the mismatches in illocutionary force and norms of politeness between the two languages. • There are some problems relating to text cohesion and text coherence, which need to be addressed by the translator. • The translator should be familiar with some hurdles pertaining to social and religious culture in both languages. Throughout, the discussion will be based on authentic translation examples extracted from a variety of existing translations.
Project Description a) Corpus: The researchers studied a wide jadiidu (the new world order) and ’an-niðaamu-l- variety of texts ranging from media to literary ’iraaniyyu (the Iranian regime), respectively. discourse. The bulk of the data included authentic excerpts extracted from existing However, as Kachru (1982) puts it, “Whatever can translations and featuring relevant translation be said in one language, can be said equally well insights. The target excerpts were collected in any other language”. over a period of 5 months. A total of 73 excerpts were analyzed and discussed in a full-length While not subscribing to this statement in an paper. absolute sense, we believe that the picture that emerges between languages is one of asymmetric b) Procedure: The bulk of the data were collected equivalence or resemblance. and subjected to a close examination, in an attempt to provide input to the research goals. The existing translation models selectively focus
on different asymmetries: cultural, situational The facts that human languages phonologize, or sociolinguistic, dynamic or psycholinguistic, morphologize, syntactize, lexicalize, phraseologize, pragmaticize, textualize and culturalize differently formal or grammatical, semiotic, textual, functional, makes domestication inevitable in the process of and Ideational (Farghal,1994). Consequently, translating. Krazeszowki (1971) states that there the SL text should be subjected to an act of are few, if any, congruent structures between domestication at one or more of its linguistic and languages. One-to-one strict correspondence is, or cultural levels, this being the only guarantee to therefore, largely not available in translation. In offer natural/idiomatic translations. In particular, most cases, it is either one-to-many or many-to- pragmatic, textual and cultural hurdles may pose one correspondence in any language pair. To give serious problems to students and practitioners of a simple example, the Arabic lexical item niðaam translation alike. translates differently into system, order and regime depending on the co-text, viz.’an-niðaamu- Pragmatics: Pragmatics is usually defined s-sawtiyyu fi-l-luati-l-‘arabiyyati (the phonological as language in actual use where context is system in Arabic), ’an-niðaamu-l-‘aalamiyyu-l- a determining factor. It mainly deals with the
172 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project various ways and means to encode and decode ultimate goal is to facilitate the work of translators contextually based implicit information, including and render it more systematic. It should be illocutions, conversational implicature, relational clear that the areas and the examples used address terms, politeness, etc. In terms of in demonstrating domestication are selective translation, there are cases where the translator in nature and their scope is not intended to be has to employ domestication in order to maintain exhaustive. They merely constitute representative normal or unmarked pragmatic use in the TL. The samples of what happens when translators translator’s main role is, therefore, to relay the attempt to domesticate their products in the TL. intended meaning while paying utmost attention A more elaborate and comprehensive account to corresponding pragmatic TL norms. of domestication in this language pair will definitely require an entire volume, which would Texture: Texture or texuality represents the be a welcome move in Arabic-English translation essential features that qualify a stretch of language studies. to be called a text. Beaugrande de and Dressler (1981) stated about seven standards of textuality: Acknowledgements cohesion, coherence, informativity, situationality, The authors are grateful to Kuwait Foundation intentionality, acceptability and intertextuality. The for the Advancement of Sciences for the financial first two standards, i.e. cohesion and coherence, assistance. stand out as encompassing attributes of texts and may be argued to include the other textuality References features. Beaugrande de, R. and W. U. Dressler. (1981). Culture: Culture consists as a complex whole, Introduction to Text Linguistics. London: which includes all walks of life such as beliefs, Longman. customs, politics, art, morals, law, ecology, Farghal, M. (1994). Ideational Equivalence habits, etc. Language, which is the main vehicle in Translation. In Beaugrande, Robert de, to express culture, is the foundation stone upon Shunnaq, A. and Heliel, M. (eds.) Language, which culture rests. It is not enough for translators Discourse and Translation in the West and to be bilingual; they should also be bi-cultural. Middle East. Amsterdam: John Benjamins, pp. 55-63. Conclusions and Recommendations Kachru, Y. (1982). “Toward Defining the Notion Domestication of pragmatics, texture and culture ‘Equivalence’ in Contrastive Analysis”. TESL is an integral component of translation activity and 5: 82-98. practice. Our account is only meant to provide a small taste of the nature and parameters of Krazeszowki, T. (1971). Equivalence, Congruence domestication between Arabic and English in the and Deep Structure. In G. Nickel (ed.), Papers hope of bringing this process to the consciousness in Contrastive Linguistics. Cambridge: of student and practising translators alike. The Cambridge University Press, pp. 37-48.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 173 Gauging Job Satisfaction of Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior Employees (2008-1120-01)
A. Al-Nofel Ministry of Interior
Abstract Job satisfaction has been a subject of great interest for quite a long time in the field of social science, social psychology, research on organizational behavior and human resource management. It influences many aspects of work such as efficiency, productivity, absenteeism, turnover rates and intention to quit. It has been studied because it relates to many variables, including occupation, work outcomes, personality characteristics and well-being. Due to its importance, it is not surprising that job satisfaction is studied extensively. It is a popular research topic among industrial and organizational psychologists. Considering its link to many organizationally important factors, such as productivity, morale and personnel turnover, research on job satisfaction in policing is important. The information on how satisfied police officers are with various job-related factors can be extremely useful to police executives.
Most people believe that job satisfaction is closely associated with performance and numerous other important work behaviors, including absenteeism, turnover, and organizational behavior of employees. Employees› job satisfaction is both a goal in itself and a proxy for an organization’s capacity to retain and motivate its employees.
Project Description This study investigated the status and and what was redundant or unnecessary. The determinants of job satisfaction among questionnaire contained closed-ended, rather policemen in different police departments of than open-ended questions. the Ministry of Interior (MOI) within the State The sample (2671) consisted of a random of Kuwait. Questionnaires were used to gather selection of male officers from various ranks information about the opinions and behavior within different police departments. The of police officers toward job satisfaction. The information contained in the questionnaires validity and reliability of this measurement tool, was held confidential and returned directly to i.e. the questionnaire, was rigorously tested to the researchers. Test-retest estimates indicated ensure that the data collected was meaningful. satisfactory reliability. The design and method of administration of the questionnaire was carefully considered since it This study used five variables involved in would influence the response rate that would be motivation and job satisfaction. These variables achieved and the quality of data that would be were tested with other individual characteristics collected. of the police officers. It included age, social status, education, years in service, job To ensure that the data collected from the designation, rank and salary. questionnaire were valid and reliable, a pilot study was undertaken during which the acceptability, Conclusions and Recommendations validity and reliability of the measure was tested. The pilot study used samples that were similar to The five variables related to job satisfaction the population that was examined in the actual were as follows: study. 1. Nature of job. The questionnaire which was used was short 2. Style of management. and simple to understand. It was necessary 3. Work environment. to draw a line of difference between what was 4. Incentives. essential or useful to know about job satisfaction 5. Quality of work.
174 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project The analysis indicated the following: 2. Involve police officers, who are single, in different activities organized by the police 1. The level of job satisfaction among policemen officers club. in general tended to be somewhat high. 3. Encourage officers with lower educational 2. As for job satisfaction among high rank qualifications to continue their education officers, in comparison to low rank officers, locally or abroad. the former tended to be somewhat lower than that of the latter. 4. Provide more salary incentives to police officers on the basis of years of service. 3. Job satisfaction among married police officers tended to be higher compared to their 5. Encourage low-rank officers by easing the counterparts who were single or widowers promotion procedures and increasing their and worked in the same department. confidence in the decision-making process at the Ministry of Interior. 4. Lower rank officer incentives were considered to be the most important for job satisfaction 6. Prepare a logical system on the basis of and the environment was the second productivity and efficiency of work, which strongest determinant. will create a sense of equality among police officers. 5. The strongest determinant of job satisfaction for higher rank police officers were work 7. Forward a proposal to the MOI to increase conditions and security, respectively. salaries by including fixed financial incentives. 6. The most important determinants of job satisfaction were policy and the work itself. Acknowledgements The financial support provided for this study The study concluded by recommending by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of the following measures, which need to be Sciences is gratefully acknowledged. incorporated to increase job satisfaction among the police officers: Reference
1. Encourage the police officers to attend Frederic Herzberg: The Motivation to work, trainings (local and abroad). second edition, John Wiley & sons, New York.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 175 Evaluating Societal Satisfaction of the Services Provided by the Ministry of Interior (2008-1120-02)
A. Al-Nofel Ministry of Interior
Abstract As the concept of ‘peoples’ satisfaction’ is new to many governmental departments, it is important to provide precise clarifications while defining the term. Peoples’ satisfaction in this study is the state of mind or the opinions that people have about a governmental department when their expectations have been met or exceeded beyond the duration of the services. Due to the significance of the term, the definition will also have some important implications such as the following: 1. Measurement will not be exact and will require sampling and statistical analysis. 2. Satisfaction measurement was undertaken with an understanding of the gap between customer expectations and attributes of performance and perceptions. 3. There is a connection between satisfaction measurement and bottom-line results.
Project Description There is no previous work done on the quality understanding of the application form and the of services and people’s satisfaction pertaining completing of the same or finding information on to the police departments in the State of Kuwait. work schedule. Even if work was undertaken on the subject, People were also questioned on the level of there are neither data available on it nor satisfaction about the relevance of information were they effectively related to current issues they received about the staff they had to deal pertaining to the different police departments. with directly or the courtesy with which they The Study and Research Center at the Ministry were approached. People were asked whether of Interior in the State of Kuwait conducted a the staff were helpful or not or whether they field study using a descriptive method with a showed interest in people as individuals and questionnaire distributed to a random 2,777 treated them with dignity. The level of people’s cases. This study measured the quality of satisfaction depended on the manner in which services provided by the various departments in their problems were resolved. the Ministry of Interior and evaluated the general satisfaction expressed regarding the services. The study used SPSS program to analyze the This field work was focused on measuring data collected. people’s perceptions of how well the different police departments delivered the services to them (beneficiaries). It provided an overall Conclusions and Recommendations picture of people’s opinion about the services The study arrived at the following conclusions: of police department regarding supply, quality, punctuality and communication • Customer satisfaction towards the services The study selected those who were provided rendered by the police departments was services by the different police departments and considered high. distributed questionnaires to them. • The staff of the police departments were very The questions assessed the people’s (whether helpful. Kuwaiti or non-Kuwaiti) level of satisfaction and • The people responded positively towards the their expectation of services that they received treatment they received from the staff. and the punctuality with which they were delivered to them. People were also questioned • Kin-relationship was a significant factor that on the ease of accessibility to required personnel influenced speedy and qualitative services. and the clarity of information/advice that was • Customer satisfaction and qualitative services provided to them. Further, the questionnaire contributed to improved departmental (police) also included questions pertaining to their performance.
176 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project • The study proved instrumental in monitoring 8. Procedures should be clarified and made people’s expectations and ensuring easy for the beneficiaries satisfaction levels. 9. New technology should be implemented • The study uncovered perceptions and regularly to improve the working conditions needs of the people concerning various in the department of the Ministry of Interior. departmental services at the Ministry of 10. Regular training programs must be Interior. conducted to improve the efficiency of the staff in the department of the Ministry of • Historical data tracking was crucial to Interior. understand the improvement of people’s satisfaction. Acknowledgements • In an era of high expectations, people’s We are grateful to Kuwait Foundation for the satisfaction and the quality of services Advancement of Sciences for the financial were essential for developing strategies for support for this study. improvement. The study recommended the following: References 1. Each department in the Ministry of Interior Jassem bin Fihan Al- Douseri; Organizational should have evaluation criteria to assess culture in the security organizations and performance of the employees. their role in the implementation of TQM, a comparative analysis between the General 2. It is necessary to regularly update the opinion Directorate of Traffic and the General of beneficiaries regarding the services Directorate of Nationality, Passports and provided by the Ministry of Interior. Residence in the Interior Ministry of the 3. There is need to increase the role of Kingdom of Bahrain; Naif Arab University monitoring systems and follow-up on the for Security Sciences, College of Graduate services provided and prepare periodic Studies, Department of Administrative reports. Sciences, Riyadh, 2007. 4. Services provided should be impartial and Jaber Humoud Jaber Al- Naeimi; Security without the use of “Wasta” (influence). leaders trends towards the application of Total Quality Management (field study 5. An atmosphere of respect and confidence application to the Ministry of Interior in Qatar); should be developed among the staff of the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences; Ministry of Interior and the beneficiaries. College of Graduate Studies, Department of 6. Information about the beneficiaries should be Administrative Sciences; Riyadh, 2006. kept confidential. 7. A criteria should be applied for granting bonuses and meting out penalties to the Ministry of Interior staff.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Completed Project 177 Demand for Medical Care in the State of Kuwait (2002-1102-03)
N. Burney Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract In Kuwait, the government has taken a leading role in providing health care services to the population (both nationals and foreigners). The public health care system, which consists of primary (government health centers), secondary (government hospitals) and tertiary (private hospitals) levels, provides all types of services to the nationals free of charge but charges subsidized fees from the foreigners. It is widely believed that the system suffers from production and consumption inefficiencies. This study undertakes an in-depth investigation of demand for medical care in Kuwait. The analysis in the study will be based on estimating alternative econometric models of demand for medical care using cross- sectional household level data, to be collected through a survey as part of the project. It is expected that the demand parameters and other findings of the study will help the policy-makers in formulating comprehensive policy for the provision of health care.
Project Progress The project was initiated on April 1, 2008. To Kuwait University (KU). Due to various reasons, achieve the objectives of the project, the study the SCU/KU could not complete the survey. was divided into six tasks: So far over 900 households have been surveyed 1. Morbidity Trends and Patterns. and KISR team is checking the information for 2. Design and Preparation of Questionnaire. its accuracy, consistency and integrity. Task 5 3. Enumeration of Field Survey. (Demand Analysis) will be undertaken once the 4. Computerization of Survey Data. audited information on 1000 surveyed households 5. Demand Analysis. is available. 6. Report Writing. To collect the household level data required for Table 1. Distribution of Household Sample by the analysis, a comprehensive questionnaire was Governorate and Nationality prepared consisting of seven different modules. For the purpose of survey, a random sample Governorate Kuwaiti Expatriate Total of 1000 households, which was determined on the basis of statistical sampling procedures and Ahmadi 108 63 171 confidence level, was selected with the help of Aasimah 113 34 147 Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI). Table 1 shows the composition of the sample in terms of Farwaniya 103 130 233 nationality and governorates. Hawally 102 170 272 Work on first two tasks of the project has been completed, and a progress report was submitted Jahra 56 56 112 in February 2009. At present, enumeration of field survey (Task 3) and computerization of the data Mubarak Kabir 60 5 65 (Task 4) are in progress, which have been out- Total 542 458 1000 sourced to Statistical Consulting Unit (SCU) of the
178 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project An Assessment of the Real Estate Market in the State of Kuwait and the Expected Future Behavior (2005-1103-03)
M. BuShehri, S. Al-Fulaij, A. Al-Awadhi, M. Bu-Hammed, W. Behbehani, S. Al-Shamali, F. Faramarzi, N. Abdulmalek, M. Al-Asfor, B. Dashti, H. Al-Mufarej Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract This study aims to assess the real estate market in the State of Kuwait and its future behavior, based on econometric models that take into account all real estate property transactions (quantities and values) according to market segments (residential, investment, and commercial), as well as all economic factors that may effect the demand and supply of real estate properties. The study also seeks to determine the optimal prices of real estate properties and their annual growth rates. This would help to identify to what extent prices are inflated due to investors’ speculative behavior. The primary results of the first interim report, which were related to the residential sector, showed that market value of plots and houses had grown over the period from 2000 to 2007 by 230% and 85%, respectively. In addition, the study found that prices of residential property units (i.e. plots and houses) are expected to fall by 2.3% and 4.2% if supply of residential property units and interest rate on loans are increased by 10%, respectively. Moreover, prices are expected to rise by 4.6%, 3.2%, and 1% if household income, money supply, and population are increased by 10%. In addition to the above, the study found that prices of residential plots were inflated by 29% to 59%, and the prices of residential houses were inflated by approximately 26%.
Project Progress The study has developed a complete database, traded, household income, changes in the stock on a weekly basis, of all real estate transactions price index, interest rate on loans, money supply covering the period from 2000 to 2007. The data and population. include the value, size, and type of property sold, residential plots, residential houses, residential Based on a number of economic criteria, the study apartments, investment plots, investment estimated the size of the bubble in the real estate buildings, commercial stores, and commercial market (the inflationary component of prices due buildings. The study also estimated the annual to speculative behavior). These criteria include growth rates for the prices of residential property determining the optimal price of residential units (i.e. plots and houses) according to urban property units based on permanent household areas, governorates, and Kuwait as a whole. income, price to earnings ratio and comparison Moreover, the study developed economic leading between the cost of financing a house and its indicators that would provide an effective overview rental value. of the changes in prices, quantities, and market values of residential property units over time, which Finally, the study will analyze the investment and can be used to predict the business cycle in the real commercial sectors of the real estate market, estate market between booms and recessions. In analogous to what was done in the residential addition to the above, an econometric model was sector. We shall also suggest reform policies used to estimate the relationship between prices that would energize the role of the private sector of residential property units and a number of in order to create long-term stability in the real economic variables such as: growth rate of quantity estate market.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project 179 The Dictionary of the Holy Qur’an
A. Al-Ghunaim Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences
Abstract This project was initiated as per the directives of His Highness, Late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al- Jaber Al-Sabah. The Amir promised to present the Muslim World a Dictionary of the Holy Qur’an on the occasion of his chairmanship of the fifth session of the Organization of the Islamic Conference.
The aim of compiling the Dictionary of the Holy Qur’an is to acquaint people with the various terms and vocabularies that are present in the Holy Book. A group of experts are working in co-ordination, adopting the style and approach that closely corresponds with the Holy Book, which has been a source of inspiration for all human beings.
Project Progress The following were printed: All publications were greatly appreciated by researchers, those interested in Islamic studies Arabic: and group of scholars due to its valuable academic The Dictionary of the Holy Qur’an - The Approach contents. The books were also displayed at local (1993-1997). and international exhibitions wherein Kuwait • Lexicon of Botany. Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) participated. As most of the publications • Lexicon of Medicine. have been sold out, they had to be re-printed and • Lexicon of Zoology. compiled on CDs. • Lexicon of Civilized Utterances. • Eminent Figures, Part 1. The following tasks are ongoing: - The section on Eminent Figures, Part 2 is English: currently under preparation. It includes • Dictionary of the Holy Qur’an– Introduction unidentified personalities from the Holy (1993) Book. • Lexicon of Botany (1993). - The Lexicon of Ethics is currently being • Lexicon of Medicine (2006). edited. • Lexicon of Zoology (2009). - Revising and editing of Geology and Astronomy Lexicon are ongoing. Following books related to the Holy Qur’an were published: - Work on Faith and Worship Lexicon is also progressing. • The Language of the Holy Qur’an by Ahmad Moukhtar Umar. - Lexicons that were not translated into English are being followed-up. • Contents of the Holy Qur’an by Dr Mohammad Abdulhadi Abu-Ridah. - Geographical Landmarks mentioned in the Holy Qur’an are being identified. • Ways of Deducting the Holy Qur’an Rules by Prof. Ajil Al-Nashmi. - Work is ongoing to release a comprehensive electronic publication on all Lexicons published to facilitate research works.
180 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / Ongoing Project Evaluating the Economic Impacts of Re-structuring the Prices of Water in the State of Kuwait (2006-1103-06)
M. Bushehri Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research
Abstract Currently, the water sector in Kuwait is characterized by chronic water shortages and poor distribution networks. With water tariffs being significantly below the actual cost of water supply, subsidized prices are perceived to have generated inefficient water consumption patterns, thus directly resulting in water crisis (or water shortages). Demand for water is expected to grow in the future; to bridge the existing gap between demand and supply, the government has two options: allocate enormous amounts of resources and investments to build new water desalination plants; and/or increase water prices to reduce water consumption and subsequently reduce subsidy to optimal target levels. In view of the fact that water subsidy program had created wasteful consumption habits and proved expensive to maintain indefinitely, makes it necessary to amend the current water tariff rates. This proved policy would help to: Rationalize consumption and conserve this valuable resource; reduce water subsidy and improve its distribution across different economic/production sectors; develop a long-term vision of the true needs of water desalination plants that correspond to optimal water demand; protect and improve the environment.
On the other hand, increasing the prices of water would have negative impacts on the household welfare (or purchasing power) and firm revenues and profits, which are objects of concern for policy-makers. The concern directly imposes the importance of a complete and comprehensive evaluation of the possible economic impacts of prices reform policy before the actual implementation. Therefore, the objective of this project is to evaluate the economic benefits and costs that are associated with the re-structuring of the prices of water in the State of Kuwait.
Institutional Development of Companies (2007-3103-01)
A. Najar and A. Arifa Kuwait University
Abstract The principal objective of this study is to assess the extent of institutional development in private sector organizations in the State of Kuwait and to identify the shortcomings. The research will propose mechanisms essentially based on strategic planning and human resource development programs tailored to the needs of these organizations. It is believed that this approach will be constructive and boost the ability of these organizations to increase their efficiency and enhance their competitiveness. The findings of this project will evolve from a field study conducted on a random sample of private sector organizations in the State of Kuwait. The survey prepared for the purpose of this investigation intends to generate data, based on the feedback, that will provide an assessment of the extent of current institutional development in the private sector, identify and evaluate the current processes and mechanisms for measuring performance and shortcomings due to current practices or activities or due to the need for training activities and set priorities. Attempt will also be made to identify the main current obstacles facing the private sector with regards to institutional development in its broadest sense. Results of the filed study will be used to propose strategies for promoting institutional development reflecting the distinctiveness of the Kuwaiti private sector; to revise existing legislation (especially corporate and trade law) that impede the current practices; to propose alternatives to current organizational structures and mechanisms of job descriptions that do not promote institutional development, and, finally, design human resource training plans to meet training needs of institutions as revealed by the field study.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 181 Designing Simulation Model to Solve Shipment Delay in Shuwaikh Port (2008-1103-02) R. Al-Hussein Kuwait University Abstract The State of Kuwait has chosen to develop into a financial center in the GCC and the Middle East Regions. Subsequently, the quality of the country’s economical infrastructure, such as ports, plays an important role in achieving such a goal. Lately, however, increasing complaints from companies regarding delays in releasing exports/imports from Shuwaikh port has been noticed. These accusations could seriously hurt Kuwait’s economy along with local company businesses, thus obstructing Kuwait from achieving its goal. As an important element in any supply chain network, ports represent the backbone of logistics and transformations in modern global economy. Among many factors, companies look for ports that could fulfill their logistics needs with quality and promptness of services. Any delay in releasing exports/ imports from the port could mean financial loss for both suppliers and customers. Improving the operational workflow, therefore, is considered a critical factor for the success of any port, in order to achieve competitive advantage over other ports in the region. Accordingly, this study will investigate the factors and reasons that are affecting the operational process and workflow of Kuwaiti ports, particularly the Shuwaikh port. A simulation model will be built to identify bottlenecks and workflow planning. Based on the simulation model results, recommendations can be made to overcome the obstacles. This study is vitally important since it will enable the identification of shortcomings that cause customers to prefer dealing with other ports in the region and, hopefully it will lead to the identification of some opportunities that will enable the improvement and preservation of Kuwaiti ports.
Mathematics Difficulties in Kuwaiti Children and Its Relationship with their Personal and Emotional Traits (2008-1109-01) G. Eid Kuwait University Abstract Many research studies indicated that the percentage of people with mathematics learning difficulties or Dyscalculia is about 3.5-6.5% of the world’s population; i.e. 216 to 390 million people are suffering from Dyscalculia in the world (50% of them are males, and 50% females). Arab studies indicated that the rate of spread of Dyscalculia ranges from 10.8-46.28%. In addition, studies indicated that there is a steady increase in these percentages annually. Furthermore, the methods used in the diagnosis and treatment of this disorder are still primitive and inadequate attention has been given to it in the Arab world. With respect to the situation in Kuwait, a large proportion of schoolchildren have difficulties in mathematics but there is a lack experience in diagnosing Dyscalculia, or developing appropriate intervention programs for treatment. The number of centers in Kuwait that deal with these students are insufficient, with limited attendance by students. Pupils with learning difficulties are lost in the schools, suffering delays and negative attitude because they are still neglected in an inappropriate environment. Hence, the need for such a study, which aims to: (a) construct and standardize the Dyscalculia Diagnostic Scale (DDS), and Math Anxiety Scale (MAS) in the Kuwaiti context, (b) explore the percentage of dyscalculic students among elementary students in Kuwait, and (c) investigate the differences between high achievers, normal achievers, and dyscalculic in the following: the performance in DDS, MAS, self concept, personal and social adjustment, and personality traits. Gender differences would also be investigated for all the previously-mentioned variables. The sample will include (1200) fourth and fifth grade students (600 males, and 600 females). The expected results of this study are as follows: adding two new scales to the Arabic psychological studies, the first one (i.e., DDS) aims to diagnose Dyscalculia, and the second (i.e. MAS) is expected to measure math anxiety among children, study the personal and emotional factors that might be related to math disability so as to help the teachers and specialists to better understand the academic, emotional and personality traits of Dyscalculic students. This will help to better diagnose Dyscalculia. Also, the results of this study will help to design appropriate educational programs for Dyscalculic students and assist the parents to better understand and deal with their Dyscalculic children.
182 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project Developing Teaching Materials for Management Development Programs at Kuwait University, Phase 2 (2008-1109-02)
A. Al-Owaihan Kuwait University
Abstract There is an urgent need to develop indigenous teaching materials in the form of cases and industry profile studies for enhancing academic degree and executive education programs at the College of Business Administration, Kuwait University. The first phase of the Kuwait business case development program with a two-year research grant was successfully completed. As a part of this program, twenty- three Kuwait business case studies and four industry profile research studies were completed and the final report was submitted to KFAS. The need for good business case studies for effective teaching of management education at Kuwait University and other management development agencies in the country is a continuous one. Such additional case studies are needed to reflect the fast-changing socio-economic and business environments in Kuwait under the influence of globalization, privatization and liberalization. From these perspectives, it was proposed that the Case Research and Teaching Unit at the Centre of Excellence in Management, Kuwait University develop additional twenty more business cases and/or industry profile studies based on Kuwait and Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC) socio-economic and business environments. As in the first phase of this research, the second phase of the research project would involve twenty faculty members and a number of MBA (Master of Business Administration) students at the College of Business Administration over a two-year period (2008-2009 and 2009-2010). At the end of the first year, ten case studies will be completed and another ten studies at the end of the second year. Policies, procedures and quality control measures which were formulated and successfully implemented will be continued under the second phase so as to ensure the quality of these case studies and their dissemination for use in management education programs both in Kuwait and in the GCC region. The Relationship between Parenting Styles, Trauma and Juvenile Delinquency (2008-1112-01)
F. Al Naser¹ and M. Sandman² Kuwait University¹ and University Flores (UFLO)²
Abstract Weaknesses have been discovered in Baumrind’s parenting styles typology (Baumrind, D. 1966, 1967, 1975 and 1991) in relation to Arab cultures; there is a need to develop contextually-derived measures of parenting styles, something that Chao (1994) and Kagitcibasi (1970, 2005) attempted to accomplish. The current research will examine the relationship between the forces of modernization and the invasion and occupation by a neighboring country in Kuwait and the familial relationships in Kuwaiti families as well.
There appears to be major differences in parenting styles and important differences between western and eastern cultures (Dwairy et al. 2006). Parenting styles are important in creating parenting behavior because they pass along parenting guidelines. Chao (1994) also challenged the typology of Baumrind as it applied to Chinese families. She claimed that authoritarian, authoritative, and permissive constructs are derived from western culture. Chao (1994) proposed a typology that reflects Confucian parenting. According to her, optimal parenting is characterized by close involvement with the child, devotion and willingness to make sacrifices for the child’s well-being and family-based control that is seen as supportive by both children and parents (Chao and Sue, 1996). Dwairy et al. (2006) also stated that Kagitcibasi (1970, 2005), in his study of the Turkish and other collective cultures, disagrees with Baumrind’s typology and suggests that parental control and warmth should be looked at as being compatible rather than competitive components.
In contrast to what has been found in the west and problems with authoritarian parenting, some studies indicate that Arab children and youth are satisfied with this style (Hatab & Makki, 1978) and no complaints of the abusive-aggressive behavior of teachers (Dwairy, 1998, pp. 43-61) were reported. Finally, other
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 183 studies indicated that authoritarianism is not associated with any behavior that is detrimental to the mental health of Arab youth (Dwairy, 2004a; Dwairy & Menshar, in press). But we have been unable to locate any previous studies completed in Kuwait or in any other Arab Society addressing the effects of trauma exposure and parenting styles as they relate to juvenile delinquency, especially when considering the range and severity of potential trauma experiences that Kuwait Society has been exposed to in the past, most notably the Iraq Invasion. The current study is needed to further clarify what parenting styles work effectively and functionally in Kuwait and perhaps in the larger sense, other Arab societies. It is also needed to help understand and explain the current trend towards juvenile delinquency in Kuwait and in what ways the invasion/occupation experience and perhaps sexual assault and abuse contribute to this trend. Therefore, we want to answer a few essential and core key questions in this study: • Does parental exposure to traumatic events affect the kind and quality of parenting? • What parenting style produces the greatest number of juvenile delinquents? • Does childhood exposure to traumatic events predict juvenile delinquency rates?
An Analytical ‘Word’ Study of His Highness the Amir’s Speeches with Reference to the External Policy of the State of Kuwait (2008-1112-04) F. Fadalah Kuwait National Commission for Education, Science and Culture Abstract This study will examine and analyze the expressions used in Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah’s speeches, since he took office as Prime Minister and until he became the Amir of Kuwait in January 2006; the study will also attempt to identify how the political messages allude to the external policy of the State of Kuwait.
The study will accomplish the following objectives in the context of the external policy of the State of Kuwait: - Identify the basic expressions. - Identify the main themes. - Explain the issues of interest with respect to official directives. - Examine the fundamental values. - Explain the methods of expression and the noble interests that underlie them.
The study will adopt a descriptive approach and examine the results by utilizing two major methods of study, namely, qualitative and quantitative analyses.
Improving the Ability of Kuwaiti Companies in Decision-Making: Developing Compound Indicators (2008-3103-01) J. Hajji Kuwait University Abstract One of the major aims of this study is to establish a database for the available data and information in order to produce micro and sectoral financial and economic indicators that would assist decision-makers in Kuwaiti private sectors. Additionally, it is proposed to study and evaluate information collected, using econometric models in order to estimate the qualitative and quantitative, micro and sectoral individual and compound economic and financial indicators. Thus, the proposers hope to establish a comprehensive structural map for all economic, financial, social and environmental indicators for the business sector in Kuwait. Finally, a feasibility study will be undertaken to establish a special unit or entity to produce monthly, quarterly and yearly indicators for the business sector in Kuwait.
184 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project Neuronal Processing of English and Non-Diacritic Arabic Sentences (2008-6102-01)
A. Bourisly University of Massachusetts
Abstract Languages have shown to have differential neuronal correlates. The reason for such differences has been attributed to various factors including orthography, semantics and phonology. The purpose of this proposal is to conduct a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, using blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) contrast to assess the neuronal correlates associated with Arabic and English languages. The Arabic language has some uniqueness when compared to English. One of the main particulars is that professional and adult readers are required to read text without short-vowelization (diacritical marks) of words. Therefore, it is up to the reader to associate correct short-vowelization according to the context and grammar. Given this particularity of Arabic, we will investigate the neuronal correlates associated with Arabic in this study and compare it with the more well established neuronal correlates of English. We hypothesize that reading Arabic without diacritical marks will require activation of implicit semantic regions of the brain, specifically the left inferior temporal gyrus and the superior temporal gyrus.
Mate Selection in Kuwaiti Society (2009-1112-01)
L. Al-Kazi and R. Ahmed Kuwait University
Abstract Studies have shown that marital incompatibility and the resulting divorce is largely due to the flawed selection of marriage partners. Many studies from the Arab world and from western societies have claimed that the process of mate selection is influenced by social, psychological and demographic factors as well as the effect of urbanization. Despite the importance of mate selection and its relevance to the continuity of marital life, there are neither enough studies on Kuwaiti society that have scientifically analyzed the process and the factors that influence this decision, nor are there studies that have focused on married and unmarried Kuwaitis and conducted comparative analyses.
Statistics show high divorce rates among Kuwaitis, especially among newly-wedded couples and those in their twenties. In Kuwait, while certain percentages (55-58) of married Kuwaitis have remained stable over the last decade, the percentage of divorced, especially among women, has risen from 3.6 percent to over 6 percent in 2004 (vital statistics, 2004). For the first time in the latest Kuwaiti census data, divorced Kuwaiti women were higher in proportion to those separated by death (widowed). The young age and the short span of marriage of divorcees raise questions concerning mate selection. This trend further emphasizes the importance of conducting a study about the mate selection process among youth of both sexes in Kuwaiti society and the factors that could lead to compatibility or incompatibility in married life.
In this study, data will be collected from a random sample of 2000 Kuwaitis (1000 males and 1000 females). It will include respondents from different age groups, education levels, marital status and professional groups, in order to assess the differences between these groups which could shed some light on whether criteria for choosing marital partners has changed over time. To achieve this goal, the study will utilize a questionnaire developed by the researcher on the various traits desired from which respondents could choose and include social and demographic data. The data gathered will be analyzed by various statistical methods such as, standard deviation, correlations, differential analysis and other tests.
Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 185 Updating of Kuwait Scientific Encyclopedia for Children Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences Abstract Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), in its noble mission to promote science, took upon itself to update the Kuwait Scientific Encyclopedia for Children, which was earlier (1987-2005) published in 17 parts. In keeping with the demanding technological trends and developments and in order to meet the growing needs of the modern generation as well as to support earlier efforts of the team in compiling a valuable and effective referential document. The Research Directorate at KFAS set out on the project with the following objectives: • Update and sort the existing entries in the encyclopedia and review the scientific, literary and linguistic aspects. • Add new entries related to contemporary scientific developments. • Develop an online encyclopedia, with a dedicated website on the internet and enhance the benefits through electronic publishing.
186 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate / New Project 187 List of Projects by Research Area and Status
188 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Biological Sciences (BS) Completed Projects 9 Ongoing Projects 12 New Projects 11
Engineering Sciences and Technology (ES) Completed Projects 10 Ongoing Projects 10 New Projects 11
Medical Sciences (MS) Completed Projects 3 Ongoing Projects 10 New Projects 5
Natural Sciences (NS) Completed Projects 5 Ongoing Projects 4 New Projects 6
Social Sciences and Humanities (SS) Completed Projects 11 Ongoing Projects 3 New Projects 11
189 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Biological Sciences (BS)
Completed Projects
The Biology of Marine Turtles and their Environment in the State of Kuwait - 38 Phase 2 (Project Code: 1999-1207-02) Project Leader: S. Al-Mohanna Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences
Development of Salt-Tolerant Plants - Phase 2: Characterization and Analysis of 40 Salt-Induced Genes of Mangrove Plant (Project Code: 2002-1207-05) Project leader: M. Saleem Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Bio-Technology Department.
A Comparative Study on Production Efficiency of Four Strains of Brown and White 42 Egg Laying Hens (Project Code: 2003-1207-09) Project leader: A. Al-Nasser Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department.
Developing and Application of DNA Fingerprinting in Zobaidy (Pampus Argenteus) 44 in the Northern Arabian Gulf (Project Code: 2004-1207-10) Project leader: S. Almomin Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Bio-Technology Department
The Production of Intergeneric Hybrids from Shaem and Sobaity: Comparison of 46 Growth and Survival Performances (Project Code: 2005-1207-01) Project Leader: T. Abu-Rezq Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division; Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine Environmental Department.
190 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Experiments on the Culture of Dunaliella Salina for Induction and Extraction of 48 β-Carotene (Project Code: 2006-1207-01) Project Leader: T. Abu-Rezq Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine Environmental Department.
Effect of Crude Oil on Early Life Stages of Native Fish Species of the State of 50 Kuwait (Project Code: 2006-1207-08) Project Leader: Q. Karam Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Environmental Sciences Department.
Probiotics: Alternative Methods for Disease Control in Sobaity Larvae Production 52 (Project Code: 2006-1207-12) Project Leader: A. Al-Marzouk Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine Environmental Department.
Introduction of Flowering Trees of the Genus Cassia for the Enhancement of 54 Greenery in Kuwait Phase 1: Introduction and Evaluation (Project Code: 2006-1207-13) Project Leader: H. Al-Menaie Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
Ongoing Projects Nutrition Program for the State of Kuwait: Phase 1 - National Nutrition Survey in 56 the State of Kuwait (Project Code: 2003-1202-02) Project Leader: S. Al-Hooti Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Bio- Technology Department. Beneficiary: Ministry of Health
Effects of Changing Photoperiods and Water Temperatures on Spawning Season 57 of Sobaity, Sparidentex Hasta (Project Code: 2003-1207-05) Project Leader: K. Al-Abdul-Elah Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division; Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine Environmental Department.
191 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Survey of Demersal Fish Stocks of the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman 58 (Project Code: 2004-1207-07) Project Leader: M. Al-Husaini Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine Environmental Department
Developing Capability for Detection of Genetically Modified Foods Imported to the 59 State of Kuwait (Project Code: 2006-1202-01) Project Leader: F. Al-Salameen Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Bio-Technology Department
Application of Detection Technologies for Viral Diseases of Important Plant Crops 60 in the State of Kuwait (Project Code: 2006-1207-03) Project Leader: E. Al-Ali Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Biotechnology Department.
Optimization and Pilot Scale Organic Greenhouse Vegetable Production 61 (Project Code: 2006-1207-04) Project Leader: N. Bhat Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
Culture of Zobaidy (Pampus Argentus) in the State of Kuwait - Phase 2 62 (Project Code: 2006-1207-05) Project Leader: S. Al-Matar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine Environmental Department.
Testing of Closed Production Systems for Controlled Environment Agriculture: 63 Sub-irrigation System for Protected Cultivation-Phase 2 (Project Code: 2006-1207-09) Project Leader: M. Albaho Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
Standardization of Propagation Techniques of Selected Indigenous Plants and 64 Evaluation of their Performance under Urban Conditions (Project Code: 2006-1207-11) Project Leader: M. Suleiman Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
192 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Evaluation of Water Plants for Greenery Development in the State of Kuwait, Phase 65 1: Introduction and Evaluation (Project Code: 2007-1207-01) Project Leader: H. Al-Menaie Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
Conocarpus Lancifolius under Semi-Arid Conditions in the State of Kuwait: 66 Ecophysiological, Biochemical and Cytological Studies (Project Code: 2007-1207-07) Project Leader: R. Al-Hasan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Evaluation and Adaptation of Molecular Method for Fast Detection of Vibrio in 67 Seafood (Project Code: 2007-1207-09) Project Leader: S. Al-Mouqati Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Bio-Technology Department
New Projects Composting Poultry Waste 68 (Project Code: 2006-1207-10) Project Leader: S. Al-Ghawas Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
Determination of the Levels of Dioxins and Dioxin-Like Polychlorinated Biphenyls 68 in Foodstuffs Marketed in the State of Kuwait: A Preliminary Study (Project Code: 2007-1202-01) Project Leader: A Husain Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Bio-Technology Department
Irrigation Studies in Date Palm (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) 69 (Project Code: 2007-1207-02) Project Leader: N. Bhat Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
Biological & Ecological Investigation of National Marine Fisheries in Kuwait 69 Marine Environment - Phase 1: Species Identification, Distribution and Seasonality Using Genomic DNA Techniques (Project Code: 2007-1207-06) Project Leader: A. Al-Zaidan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, Zoology Program
193 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Evaluation and Demonstration of Growbag Technique for Protected Cultivation 70 (Project Code: 2007-1207-08) Project Leader: M. Albaho Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
Isolation, Characterization and Evaluation of Lactic Acid Bacteria for the 70 Development of Poultry Probiotics - Phase 1 (Project Code: 2007-1207-10) Project Leader: M. Balba Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Bio-Technology Department
Effect of Herbal Feed Additive on Growth and Survival of Penaeus Semisulcatus in 71 Full Production Cycle (Project Code: 2008-1207-01) Project Leader: L. Al-Musallam Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine Environmental Department
Evaluation of Immune Response and Determination of Optimum Age of Sobaity 71 Larvae for Immunoprophylactic Health Management (Project Code: 2008-1207-02) Project Leader: A. Saheb Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine Environmental Department
The Evaluation of Local and Imported Goat Breeds under Kuwait’s Environment- 72 Phase 1 (Project Code: 2008-1207-03) Project Leader: S. Mohammed Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
Zoobenthos Community Structure of Kuwait Bay - A Pilot Study 72 (Project Code: 2008-1207-09) Project Leader: K. Al-Rifaie Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aquaculture, Fisheries and Marine Environmental Department
Investigation on Some Aspects of Biology and Ecology of the Endemic Ocypode 73 Crab Leptochryseus Kuwaitense in Intertidal Mudflats of in the State of Kuwait (Project Code: 2009-1207-02) Project Leader: A. Bebehani Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences
194 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Engineering Sciences and Technology (ES)
Completed Projects Development of a Wastewater Quality Database and Assessment of Effluent Quality 76 for Potential Re-use in the State of Kuwait (Project Code: 2004-1505-02) Project Leader: A. Shahalam Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Water Technologies Department.
Nonlinear Predictive Control and Applications for an Industrial-Scale Pilot Plant 78 (Project Code: 2004-1506-01) Project Leader: M. Al-Juraidan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Department of Advanced Systems.
Treatment of Landfill Leachate by Rotating Biological Contactor 80 (Project Code: 2005-1501-01) Project Leader: S. Al-Muzaini Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Environmental Sciences Department
Measuring Electromagnetic Radiation Levels in the State of Kuwait at High 82 Frequencies between 75MHz to 3GHz (Project Code: 2005-1501-02) Project Leader: F. Alkoot Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, Telecommunication and Navigation Institute
Using Electrochemical Noise Technique in Studying the Corrosion Behavior of 84 Carbon Steel in Oil-Field Waters (Project Code: 2005-1504-01) Project Leader: H. Al-Mazeedi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Petroleum Research and Studies Center, Petroleum Production Department
Hydroisomerization of Light Naphtha Using Molybdenum and Tungsten-Based 86 Catalysts (Project Code: 2005-1504-03) Project Leader: F. Jassem Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Petroleum Research and Studies Center, Petroleum Refining Department Beneficiary: Boubyan Petrochemical Company
195 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Investigating a Novel Multiple Classifier System Design Strategy 88 (Project Code: 2005-1510-02) Project Leader: F. Alkoot Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, Telecommunication and Navigation Institute.
Developing Al-Noor Press and Computer Laboratory for the Blind in Kuwait Special 90 Schools (Project Code: 2005-1510-03) Project Leader: N. Al-Ghurair Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Department of Advanced Systems
Effect of Severity of Operation Conditions on the Accelerated Aging of Residue 92 Hydrotreating Catalyst (Project Code: 2006-1504-01) Project Leader: F. Jassem Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Petroleum Research and Studies Center, Petroleum Refining Department
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Reduction/Removal from RO Reject Wastewater-Bench 94 and Pilot Scale Study (Project Code: 2006-1505-01) Project Leader: A. Shahalam Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Water Technologies Department
Ongoing Projects Evaluating and Enhancing Emergency Services in the State of Kuwait Using 96 Artificial Intelligence (Project Code: 1997-1510-01) Project Leader: A. Mahmeed Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training
Development of Effective and Water-Efficient Condenser Pre-cooling System 97 (Project Code: 2004-1508-04) Project Leader: Y. Al-Hadban Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Building and Energy Technologies Department
Quality Assessment and Waste Reduction in Kuwaiti Manufacturing Industries 98 (Project Code: 2005-1506-02) Project Leader: T. Issa Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno Economics Division, Quantitative Methods and Modeling Department
Recovery Performance of Partially Fractured Gas Condensate Reservoirs 99 (Project Code: 2006-1504-03) Project Leader: F. Qasem Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Petroleum Engineering Department
196 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion of Carbon Steel in Sea and Effluent Water 100 Injection Plants of North and West Kuwait Oil Fields (Project Code: 2006-1504-04) Project Leader: H. Al-Mazeedi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Petroleum Research and Studies Center, Petroleum Production Department
Recovery of Metals and Alumina from Spent Hydroprocessing Catalysts 101 (Project Code: 2006-1504-05) Project Leader: M. Marafi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Petroleum Research and Studies Center, Petroleum Refining Department
Optimum Burial Depth of Submarine Pipelines for Kuwaiti Marine Environmental 102 Conditions (Project Code: 2006-1508-02) Project Leader: S. Neelamani Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Coastal and Air Pollution Department Beneficiary: Kuwait Pipe Industries and Oil Services Company
Automation of Computer Network Re-design with Servers Placement Considerations 103 (Project Code: 2006-1510-03) Project Leader: S. Habib Affiliation: Kuwait University, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Computer Engineering Department Beneficiary: Axis Solutions Company for Computer Systems
Performance Evaluation of Riqqa Secondary Treatment System 104 (Project Code: 2007-1508-05) Project Leader: A. Abusam Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Water Technologies Department
The Economic Utilization of Waste in the State of Kuwait 105 (Project Code: 2008-1508-01) Project Leader: J. Al-Ammar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Industrial Bank of Kuwait
New Projects Production and Characterization of Synthetic Ceramic Lightweight 106 Aggregates Utilizing Kuwaiti Argillaceous Materials (Project Code: 2005-1508-01) Project Leader: S. Al-Bahar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Building and Energy Technologies Department
Development and Application of Arabic Computer Program for the Enhancement 106 of Short-term Memory of Dyslexics in School, Ministry of Education (Project Code: 2006-1510-02) Project Leader: N. Al-Ghurair Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Department of Advanced Systems Beneficiary: Kuwait Dyslexia Association 197 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Development of a Fate and Transport Modeling Procedure for Accidental Nuclear 107 Releases Reaching Kuwait Borders (Project Code: 2007-1501-02) Project Leader: M. Al-Rasheedi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Department of Advanced Systems
Use of Gamma-Irradiated Polypropylene to Control the Degradation of Some 107 Polyolefinic Blends (Project Code: 2007-1504-02) Project Leader: S. Lahalih Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Petroleum Research and Studies Center, Petrochemical Processes Program Element
Assessment of the Water Rise Problem at Qurain Residential Area 108 (Project Code: 2007-1505-02) Project Leader: K. Hadi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Water Technologies Department
Assessment of Usable Groundwater Reserve in Northern Kuwait 108 (Project Code: 2007-1505-03) Project Leader: A Fadlelmawla Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Hydrology and Water Resources Management
Hybrid Solar Photovoltaic/Wind Turbine Energy Generation System with Voltage 109 Based Maximum Power Point Tracking Project Code: 2007-1508-06) Project Leader: A. Al-Othman Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Technological Studies, Electrical Engineering Department.
The Effect of Using the RO Treated Wastewater on the Soil and Groundwater at Al-Abdally 109 Farms (Project Code: 2008-1505-01) Project Leader: H. Al-Qallaf Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Hydrology and Water Resources Management
Characterization and Treatment of Dairy Processing Wastewater Effluent for Reuse 110 (Project Code: 2008-1505-02) Project Leader: S. Al-Shammari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Hydrology and Water Resources Management
Critical Success Factors Influencing E-Commerce in the State of Kuwait 110 (Project Code: 2008-1510-01) Project Leader: K. Abdullah Affiliation: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. Beneficiary: Global E-Commerce Company
New Techniques for Estimating the Distance of Open-Circuit Faults Using Distance 111 Relays (Project Code: 2009-1505-01) Project Leader: A. Al-Kandari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Technological Studies, Electrical Engineering Department.
198 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Medical Sciences (MS)
Completed Projects HLA Gene Frequency in the Kuwaiti Arab Population and Establishment of National 114 Registry (Project Code: 2003-1302-06) Project Leader: S. Al-Shemmari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences and Nursing.
Improvement of Parvovirus B19 Diagnosis in the State of Kuwait 116 (Project Code: 2005-1302-04) Project Leader: W. Chehadeh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Microbiology
Overweight, Obesity and Related Factors in Kuwaiti Patients with Cancer- 118 A Prospective Study (Project Code: 2006-1302-05) Project Leader: S. Al-Awadi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine
Ongoing Projects Role of Oxidative Stress and Hypercortisolemia in the Pathogenesis of Impaired 120 Wound Healing in Diabetes Mellitus (Project Code: 2002-1302-06) Project Leader: M. Bitar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Adenylyl Cyclase Expression and Activity in 121 Normal and Diabetic States (Project Code: 2003-1302-01) Project Leader: M. Bitar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
199 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Assessment of Prevalence and Etiology of Blindness and Visual Impairment in 122 Kuwaiti Population (Project Code: 2003-1302-03) Project Leader: N. Sadeq Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Health
Normal Cardiac Reference Ranges for the Pre-Term Babies 123 (Project Code: 2003-1302-05) Project Leader: L. Abushaban Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Paediatric Department
Determinants of Micro- and Macro-vascular Complications of Type 2 Diabetes 124 Mellitus in Kuwaiti Patients in Relation to the Genotypic, Phenotypic and Biochemical Characteristics (Project Code: 2004-1302-03) Project Leader: N. Abdella Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine
The Role of Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate (cAMP) in the Regulation of IgE- 125 Dependant Activation of Human Monocyctes: Implication for the Treatment of Allergic Diseases with cAMP -Elevating Drugs (Project Code: 2005-1302-03) Project Leader: C. Ezeamuzie Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology
Value of Surveillance Cultures and Detection of Antigens, (1-3)-β-D-Glucan and 126 DNA in Early Diagnosis and Therapeutic Monitoring of Invasive Candidiasis and Aspergillosis in Immunocompromised Patients (Project Code: 2005-1302-05) Project Leader: E. Mokaddas Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Microbiology 127 Association of Diabetes Mellitus with Viral Infection in the State of Kuwait (Project Code: 2006-1302-03) Project Leader: W. Chehadeh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Microbiology
High Resolution Mapping and Localization of Metastasis Suppressor Genes in 128 Colorectal Cancer (Project Code: 2006-1302-07) Project Leader: F. Al-Mulla Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology
200 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Influence of Garlic (Allium Sativum) and Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) Compared 129 to Aspirin (Acetyl Salicyclic Acid) on Diabetic Cardiovascular Complications, Involvement of Eicosanoids in Pathogenesis (Project Code: 2007-1302-04) Project Leader: M. Thomson Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
New Projects Domestic Violence in Kuwait: Prevalence and Effects of Domestic Violence against 130 Women in Kuwait (Project Code: 2007-1302-01) Project Leader: M. Zahid Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry.
Musculosketal Conditions across the Lifespan in Kuwait: Contributing to the Bone 130 and Joint Decade Initiative through a Kuwait-Canada Research Partnership (Project Code: 2007-1302-02) Project Leader: E. Hamdan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Fawzia Sultan Educational Company (FAWSEC), International Wellness Consulting Group
Fluoride Intake from Fluids Ingested by Children aged 1-9 years in the State of 131 Kuwait (Project Code: 2007-1302-06) Project Leader: E. Akpata Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Restorative Sciences
World Health Survey for the Gulf Nations: State of Kuwait Specific 132 (Project Code: 2008-1302-01) Project Leader: A. Khalaf Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Health
Molecular Basis of JAK2 Mutations (V617F) in Myeloproliferative Disorders in 132 Kuwait (Project Code: 2008-1302-04) Project Leader: S. Al-Shemmari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine.
201 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Natural Sciences (NS)
Completed Projects Identification of Pathways of Pollutant Movement towards Groundwater in Northern 136 Kuwait (Project Code: 2003-1401-06) Project Leader: A. Qabazard Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Department of Advanced Systems.
Development of a Laser-Induced Fluorescence Cone Penetrometer System for Site 138 Characterization and Analysis of Subsurface Contaminants (Project Code: 2004-1401-01) Project Leader: M. Al-Rasheedi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Department of Advanced Systems
Development of Decision-Support Maps for Groundwater Protection in the State 140 of Kuwait (Project Code: 2004-1405-01) Project Leader: A. Fadlelmawla Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Hydrology and Water Resources Management
Evaluation of Quantity and Quality of Groundwater Seepage to Kuwait Bay 142 (Project Code: 2005-1401-05) Project Leader: A. Fadlelmawla Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Hydrology and Water Resources Management
Evaluation of Urban Groundwater Contamination from Sewage Network in Kuwait 144 City (Project Code: 2005-1405-01) Project Leader: A. Akber Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Hydrology and Water Resources Management
202 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Ongoing Projects Vapour-Liquid Equilibria for Mixtures Containing Halogenated Hydrocarbons 146 (Project Code: 2002-1401-03) Project Leader: M. Al-Hayan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Technological Studies, Department of Chemical Engineering Technology
Apportionment of Trace Metals Pollution in Outdoor and Indoor PM-10, PM-2.5 and 147 in Selected Flora of Kuwait Arid Ecosystem (Project Code: 2006-1401-02) Project Leader: A. Bu-Olayan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry
Utilization of By-Product Materials of Building Construction and Demolition to 148 Conserve Water and Soil (Project Code: 2006-1401-05) Project Leader: M. Abdal Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department
Genetic Diseases in the State of Kuwait: A Statistical Approach 149 (Project Code: 2007-1102-01) Project Leader: R. Al-Jarallah Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Statistics and Operations Research Affiliation: Ministry of Health, Kuwait Medical Genetic Center
New Projects Investigation of Indoor Environmental Air Quality (IEAQ) in Large Office Buildings 150 in Kuwait - Phase 1 (Project Code: 2006-1401-01) Project Leader: H. Al-Mudhaf Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Technological Studies, Department of Chemical Engineering Technology
Sedimentomorphic Mapping of Some Selected Areas in the State of Kuwait Using 150 Remote Sensing and GIS Applications - Phase 2 (Project Code: 2006-1401-04) Project Leader: A. Al-Hurban Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Earth and Environmental Sciences Department
Assessment of the Indoor Organic Pollutants Level in Selected Schools and 151 Hospitals (Project Code: 2006-1401-06) Project Leader: L Al-Awadi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Coastal and Air Pollution Department.
203 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Measurement and Assessment of Radionuclide Concentrations in the Coastal 151 Marine Environment (Project Code: 2007-1401-02) Project Leader: A. Al-Ghadban Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Environmental Sciences Department
Monitoring and Assessment of Dust Fallout and Associated Pollens within the 152 State of Kuwait (Project Code: 2008-1401-01) Project Leader: A. Al-Dousari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Urban Development Division, Coastal and Air Pollution Department.
Synthesis, Characterization and Catalytic Activity of Iron Oxide Nanoparticle 152 Powders and Suspensions (Project Code: 2008-1404-01) Project Leader: A. Bumajdad Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Chemistry Department.
204 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Social Sciences and Humanities (SS)
Completed Projects Study of the Feeding Behaviour and its Relation to a Child’s Physical and 156 Psychological Development from Birth till the End of the Second Year (Project Code: 2002-1102-02) Project Leader: F. Al-Enizi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training
Standardization of the Wechsler Pre-school and Primary Scale of Intelligence 158 (WPPSI-III) – Phase 2 (Project Code: 2002-1109-02) Project Leader: F. Al-Hadi Affiliation: Kuwait University Beneficiary: Kuwait Society for the Advancement of Arab Children.
Small Scale Industries in Kuwait: Reality, Future Status, Obstacles and its’ Role in 160 Development (Project Code: 2003-1103-03) Project Leader: M. BuShehri Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno-Economics Division, Quantitative Methods and Modeling Department.
Economic Assessment of the Kuwaiti Industrial Sector Commitment to 162 Environmental Regulations, Policies and Strategies in the Context of WTO (Project Code: 2004-1106-01) Project Leader: J. Hajji Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Mechanical Engineering Department.
Strategic Evaluation of Life Insurance in the State of Kuwait 164 (Project Code: 2006-1103-04) Project Leader: A. Taqi Affiliation: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training Beneficiary: Gulf Investment Company
The Impact of Performance Efficiency and Productivity of Islamic and Traditional 166 Financial Institutions and Banking on the Kuwaiti Economy (Project Code: 2006-1103-05) Project Leader: A. Marafie Affiliation/ Beneficiary: Burgan Group Holding Company
205 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate An Assessment of Cost Structure and Efficiency of Public Schools in the State of 168 Kuwait (Project Code: 2006-1109-01) Project Leader: N. Burney Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno-Economics Division, Economics Studies Department
Enhancing the Attendance of College-Level Students Based on Applied Classroom 170 Management Techniques (Project Code: 2007-1109-02) Project Leader: Z. Al-Shammari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, College of Arts and Science
Domesticating Pragmatics, Texture and Culture in Translation 172 (Project Code: 2007-1109-03) Project Leader: M. Al-Hamly Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Arts, Department of English Language and Literature
Gauging Job Satisfaction of Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior Employees 174 (Project Code: 2008-1120-01) Project Leader: A. Al-Nofel Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Interior
Evaluating Societal Satisfaction of the Services Provided by the Ministry of Interior 176 (Project Code: 2008-1120-02) Project Leader: H A. Al-Nofel Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Interior
Ongoing Projects Demand for Medical Care in the State of Kuwait 178 (Project Code: 2002-1102-03) Project Leader: N. Burney Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno-Economics Division, Economics Studies Department
An Assessment of the Real Estate Market in the State of Kuwait and the Expected 179 Future Behavior (Project Code: 2005-1103-03) Project Leader: M. BuShehri Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno-Economics Division, Quantitative Methods and Modeling Department Beneficiary: Union of Kuwaiti Banks
The Dictionary of the Holy Qur’an 180 Project Leader: A. Al-Ghunaim Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences
New Projects Evaluating the Economic Impacts of Restructuring the Prices of Water in the State of 181 Kuwait (Project Code: 2006-1103-06) Project Leader: M. Bushehri Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno-Economics Division, Quantitative Methods and Modeling Department
206 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Institutional Development of Companies 181 (Project Code: 2007-3103-01) Project Leader: A. Najar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Business Administration, Center of Excellence Management
Designing Simulation Model to Solve Shipment Delay in Shuwaikh Port 182 (Project Code: 2008-1103-02) Project Leader: R. Al-Hussein Affiliation: Kuwait University, Faculty of Business Administration, Quantitative & Information Systems Beneficiary: Kuwait Logistics Shipping Services Company
Mathematics Difficulties in Kuwaiti Children and its Relationship with Their Personal 182 and Emotional Traits (Project Code: 2008-1109-01) Project Leader: G. Eid Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Education, Department of Educational Psychology.
Developing Teaching Materials for Management Development Programs at Kuwait 183 University - Phase 2 (Project Code: 2008-1109-02) Project Leader: A. Al-Owaihan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Business Administration, Center of Excellence Management
The Relationship between Parenting Styles, Trauma and Juvenile Delinquency 183 (Project Code: 2008-1112-01) Project Leader: F. Al-Nasser Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University
An Analytical ‘Word’ Study of His Highness the Amir’s Speeches with Reference to 184 the External Policy of the State of Kuwait (Project Code: 2008-1112-04) Project Leader: F. Al-Fadalah Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait National Commission for Education, Science and Culture
Improving the Ability of Kuwaiti Companies in Decision-Making: Developing 184 Compound Indicators (Project Code: 2008-3103-01) Project Leader: J. Hajji Affiliation: Kuwait University, Faculty of Business Administration, Quantitative & Information Systems
Neuronal Processing of English and Non-Diacritic Arabic Sentences 185 (Project Code: 2008-6102-01) Project Leader: A. Bourisly Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS), Department of Radiology
Mate Selection in Kuwait Society 185 (Project Code: 2009-1112-01) Project Leader: L Al-Kazi Affiliation: Kuwait University, College of Social Sciences, Department of Sociology Beneficiary: Women Cultural Social Society
Updating of Kuwait Scientific Encyclopedia for Children 186 Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences
207 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Partners in Development Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS)
Private non-profit organization established in 1976 by a decree issued by the Late Amir, His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah
KFAS has remained committed to its cherished goals by sustaining progress in diverse aspects of life, as is evident in its support towards scientific, cultural, educational, institutional, organizational, social, environmental, local and international advancement:
FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION TO SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH - During the years 1978-2009, KFAS funded 717 research projects in Biological Sciences, Engineering Sciences and Technology, Medical Sciences, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and Humanities, with a total contribution of K.D. 21,451,098 - Out of the eighteen projects assigned by KFAS Board of Trustees, related to Biological Sciences, Engineering Sciences and Technology, Medical Sciences, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and Humanities, sixteen projects (1985-2009) were completed; two ongoing projects deal with the compilation of the Dictionary of the Holy Quran and updating of “Kuwait Scientific Encyclopedia for Children” - K.D. 3,368,467.
208 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCES:
The Kuwait Prize Every year, in recognition of scientific excellence and, with the purpose of promoting scientific advancement in Basic and Applied Sciences, Economic and Social Sciences, Arts and Letters, Arabic and Islamic Scientific Heritage in the region, two prizes worth K.D. 30,000 each are awarded to distinguished scientists/researchers (one Kuwaiti and one from an Arab country). This year, the prize was awarded to: • Prof. Majed Sharky from Algeria (Basic Sciences/Physics). • Prof. Wafiq Al-Dheeri from Egypt (Applied Sciences/Cancer). • Prof. Ayman Fuad Sayed from Egypt (Arabic and Islamic Scientific Heritage).
Prof. Ayman Fuad Sayed
Prof. Majed Sharky
Prof. Wafiq Al-Dheeri
209 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Scientific Production Prize This prize is intended to encourage and honor distinguished Kuwaiti nationals, who have made unique academic and scientific accomplishments in their field of study. Every year an amount of K.D. 10,000 each is awarded in the following six fields: • Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Dr. Jassim Mohamed Al-Awadhi • Engineering Sciences - Prof. Taher Ahmad Al-Sahaf • Biological Sciences – Dr. Yusuf Ahmed Al-Shaiji • Medical Sciences - Prof. Mohamed Abdulmajeed Zubaid • Social Sciences & Humanities – Prof. Essa Mohamed Al-Ansari • Administration and Economics - Dr. Halil Munawer Al-Mutairi
210 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Thirty-fourth Kuwait Book Fair Prize Six prizes are awarded to encourage authors, translators and publishers in Arab countries and to promote writing, translation and publication of books in all fields of knowledge. KFAS presents the awards for commendable works, exhibited at the Annual Arab Book Fair held in Kuwait. Prizes worth K.D. 5,000 are awarded for the best book and K.D. 2,000 is awarded to the publisher of the winning book. In 2009 the prizes were awarded for the following: • Annual prize for the best-authored book on Kuwait. • Annual prizes for the best book translated into Arabic. • Annual prize for best-authored book for the Arab child
Agriculture, Animal and Fish Resources Prize (2008-2009) KFAS has allocated three prizes under the following categories: first prize: K.D. 5,000, second prize - K.D. 3,000 and third prize - K.D. 2,000. In association with the Kuwait Farmers Union, this year the prize was awarded to Kuwaiti farmers for best scientific technology/techniques, diversified crops and agricultural production.
The Best Research Prize (2009) The prize is awarded for the best publication in the field of sciences and humanities. Prizes are granted for the best periodical (K.D. 3,000) in which the papers are published, thereby supporting Kuwaiti periodicals. The prize for the best paper published is K.D. 2,000.
211 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Islamic Organization of Medical Sciences Prize KFAS, in collaboration with the Islamic Organization of Medical Sciences, presents two prizes worth K.D. 6,000 each, once in two years in the following fields: • Medical practice • Islamic Medical Heritage/ Medical Islamic Jurisprudence.
Kuwait Electronic Prize The TOR for nominees of the World Summit Award (WSA) in the following eight areas was approved: e-government, e-entertainment, e-health, e-commerce, e-heritage, e-learning, e-science and e-content. • Total 23 projects (approximately 3 projects in each area) were awarded this year. • At the regional level, awards were presented for three Kuwait projects in e-science, e-entertainment and e-health during a ceremony in Bahrain. • At the international level, two Kuwait projects in e-science and e-entertainment received awards during a ceremony in Mexico under the patronage of Deputy Director General of the United Nations.
As per the directives of the H.H. the Amir, an invitation was extended to four Arab scientists who received Kuwait Prize for the year 2009, in order to enhance scientific co-operation with their Kuwaiti counterparts and other scientists.
212 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate PROMOTION OF NATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CULTURE
Support towards Institutional/Organizational Development: • Dasman Diabetes Institute (DDI) - K.D. 3,173,000. • Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), special grant by the Amir of Kuwait – K.D. 1,000,000. • Dar Al-Athar Al Islamiah - renovation of the American Hospital as a cultural centre - K.D. 500,000. • Inventors Patent Projects - US$ 335,000: - Twelve Kuwaiti inventions were registered for patents this year. - Establishment of a committee to develop a funding program for Kuwaiti inventors. - Seminar on “Supporting Kuwaiti Inventors/Inventions”. - Twenty-three Kuwaiti inventors with patents honored. - Equipping the inventors’ office at the Kuwait Science Club. • Establishment of Center for Voluntary Work (for 5 years, starting 2005) and its activities. The annual grant was increased from K.D. 50, 000 to K.D. 80,000 as per the Amiri decree. • Kuwait Blind Society – purchase of special Braille computers.
213 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Participation/Contribution to Exhibitions: • International Inventor’s Exhibition in Geneva, Switzerland (Kuwait won a bronze medal). • International Exhibition in Germany (a Kuwaiti inventor was awarded a silver medal). • MILSET (International Movement for Leisure Activities in Science and Technology) - K.D. 52,970: - The Sixth Kuwait-French Science Exhibition on Nanotechnology. - Third Forum on Energy. - Fourth Annual Kuwait Competition on Robotics. - Twelfth International Scientific Forum in Tunis. • TV/Movie Festival in Marbella, Spain - KFAS film, “Corrosion” awarded best film. • Fifteenth Cairo Film Festival for the Arab Media. • Thirteenth Ismaylia International Film festival for Documentary and Short Films. • First TV serial on Science and Technology.
214 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Support for Workshops/Training Courses: • Short training programs by Harvard for sixteen executive staff from public and private sectors. • Workshops on patents held in collaboration with Kuwait University and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). • Thirty-five scientific meetings, seminars, conferences and workshops held to encourage technology transfer and development of scientific competence – K.D. 310,374. • Seventy-one training programs and workshops conducted for Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies (KSC) staff. Support was again rendered to 185 Kuwaiti staff from the Shareholding Companies to attend local and international conferences, workshops and training courses. • Fifteen outstanding students from Kuwait University, PAAET, private universities and Kuwait Martyrs Union participated at London International Youth Science Forum. • The Twenty-Second Youth Summer Training Program (for high school and university students) on computers was held in collaboration with Kuwait Society for Information Technology. • Twelve local training courses were held for 276 participants • Thirty-Second Summer Training Program was conducted in collaboration with MOE, KU, EPA, PAAET and Kuwait Airways for secondary school/university students.
215 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Contribution to Education & Culture: • Third prize (K.D. 5,000) for “Best Project in Geography” - won by Kuwait University students. • National Olympiad Competition (Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Mathematics and Computers) held in conjunction with the Ministry of Education - 22 students participated; one silver and three bronze medals were won in Chemistry. • Seminar on ‘Creating Awareness on Learning Disorders in Children’, Center for Child Evaluation and Teaching – K.D. 40,000. • Commemorative twenty-first Diving Trip - K.D. 6,000. • Eighteenth Contest on “Vehicle and Traffic Regulations” – K.D. 27,000. • Reading (Ikrah) Competition – K.D. 1,500. • National and Liberation Day Annual Competitions – K.D. 10,000 annually. • Sixth “Thank You Teacher” function held by Kuwait Teachers Society in Honor of His Highness the Late Amir, the Pioneer Teacher of Kuwait – K.D. 10,000. • Eighth Cultural Research Competition, in collaboration with the Ministry of Electricity and Water on the occasion of World Water Day – K.D. 15,000. • Pioneer (Reyada) Competition “Know your Environment and Protect It” - K.D. 1,950. • Twelfth ACM competition in Egypt - K.D. 6740.
216 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Publications/Documentary: • Published 13 Scientific books and printed 6 Books. • Distribution of KFAS publications and encyclopedia to public libraries and Government School Libraries. • Completion of the documentary film by KFAS, “The Palm” • Majallat Al-Oloom - a monthly scientific magazine published by KFAS since 1986, in collaboration with Scientific American, an exclusive publication that disseminates accurate, up-to-date scientific information. It is one of the eighteen foreign language editions of ‘Scientific American’. • Al-Takadom El Elmi Magazine (The Scientific Advancement) - 4 issues and a CD.
217 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate Support for Environment: • KFAS supported the Kuwait diving team, Kuwait Environment Protection Society - K.D. 30,000. • Cultural awards were presented to Friends of Environment Group (students) in collaboration with Environment Public Authority. • A campaign was held, “Kuwait Fertile Environment for the Disabled 2007-2010” - K.D. 5,000.
218 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate KFAS’ CONTRIBUTION TO INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS in 2009: • The Kuwait Program Sciences PO, France (2007-2012): - T wo special lectures held under the Kuwait Eurogolfe Research Program at the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce – “The Impact of State Policy and Oil Boom on the Private Sector in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia: A Comparative Study”, “Economic and Public Challenges in Small and Medium Enterprises Development in the Gulf”. - First workshop held in Paris under the Global Public Policy Fellowships and Executive Training Program – “Emerging Challenges in Management” – 15 Kuwaiti managers attended. • The Kuwait Program at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), U.K. (2007-2017): - Kuwait Research Program in Development, Governance and Globalization in the Gulf States – one Research Fellowship. - First Conference in Kuwait on “Globalization and the Gulf: Economy and Security”. • The Kuwait Program at Harvard University, U.S.A. (2000-2010) - US$ 820,000: - One research project funded: The American Ivory Tower in the Middle East: Localization of U.S. Higher Education in the Middle East. - Fellowships for Executives – attended by 16 Kuwaiti executives. - Workshop on Public-Private Partnerships at Cambridge Massachusetts, U.S.A. May 2009 (Customized Kuwait Executive Training Program) – attended by 16 executives. • Kuwait-MIT Center for Natural Resources and the Environment (2005-2015) : - Kuwait-MIT Summer Research Fellowship – 4 attendees. - Kuwait-MIT Scholarly Exchange Program – 2 participants.
219 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate • Harvard Business School Program (HBS): - Three training programs (Advanced Management Program, General Management Program and Program for Leadership Development) held for executive managers from private Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies – total 5 executives attended. • One Research Fellowship Grant in Mathematics at Cambridge University was awarded to a Kuwaiti student this year. KFAS contributes £150,000 annually (for a period of ten years, starting from 1999). One professor from the University visited Kuwait. • Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) Quarterly Newsletter and 20th General Meeting in Durban, South Africa - US$ 50,000. • Abdul-Salam International Center for Theoretical Physics (ASICTP), Trieste, Italy - eight Arab researchers were nominated in 2009. • Membership (since 1983) in the International Council of Associations for Science Education (ICASE) - US$ 600 annually. • Membership in the Federation of Asian Scientific Academies and Societies (FASAS). KFAS is the first member in East Asia and the only member registered from the Arab world. • “Do the Write Thing” Program by Kuwait-American Foundation since 2001– K.D. 300,000 annually for ten years; additional funds were contributed to establish the database – US$ 50,000. • Establishment of Kuwait-MIT Center for Natural and Environmental Resources and Post- graduate/Ph.D. students programs. • Endowment of US$ 3,300,000 to establish the “Kuwait Chair for Studies of the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula” (for 5 years starting 2005) in Elite College for International Relations at George Washington University. • Endowment of US$ 2,000,000 - 2,500,000 to fund the Chair of the Late Amir, His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah at the Arabian Gulf University, Kingdom of Bahrain.
220 Annual Report 2009 / Research Directorate