Research Directorate Annual Report 2015

RESEARCH DIRECTORATE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

Possibilities. Potential. Progress www.kfas.org

Private Non-Profit Organization Established in 1976 Financial contributions mainly from Kuwaiti Shareholding Companies (KSC) KFAS Board of Directors Chairman His Highness the Amir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah

Board members: • Dr. Yousef Hamad Al-Ibrahim • Prof. Faiza M. Al-Kharafi • Mr. Mustafa Jasem Al-Shamali • Mr. Hani Abdulaziz Hussain • Dr. Salah Abdul Latif Al-Ateeqi • Mr. Osama M. Al Nisf • Mr. Khalid Khider Al-Mashaan

Director General Adnan A. Shihab-Eldin Rearch Directorate Staff Essam Al-Sayed Omar Director

Staff • Ameenah Farhan • Shafiqa A. Al-Awadi • Johaina A. Al-Hamdan • Khaled Al-Awadhi • Dina Al-Nakib • Manal S. Al-Ebraheem • Anwar O. Bin Amer • Abeer Al-Mulaifi • Sheba M. Mathew • Yousef Aleneze • Safia Alajlan • Somaya Al Kandari • Mohammed Shaker • Sawsan M. Sayed • Mirvette M. Samara • Shaymaa Al-Shkaili • Nadia H. Masri • Sunita V. D’Souza • Hadia M. Saker • Hind Abdullatif • Sheikh Zahid Ali • Batol Dhawi Table of Contents Table of Contents

THE DIRECTOR GENERAL’S MESSAGE 10 1. RESEARCH DIRECTORATE (RD) 12 Scientific Programs 14 Research Grant Program 14 Environment Program 14 Water & Energy Program 15 2 .Funding Scientific Research 15 Research Project Submission (Proposal) 15 Research Project Evaluation and Funding Mechanisms 15 Research Project Execution 16 3. Documentation & Dissemination of Scientific Information 16 PEER-REVIEWER INSTITUTIONS 18 STATISTICAL PROFILE 20 Annual Statistical Indicators (2015) 21 Key Performance Indicators (2015) 22 Comparative Indicators (2012-2015) 24 Cumulative Indicators (1978-2015) 25 FUNDED RESEARCH PROJECTS Research Grant Program 26 Environment Program 97 Water & Energy Program 124 INDEX: LIST OF PROJECTS 144 The Director General’s Message

10 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | The Director General’s Message The Director General’s Message

The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of The year 2015 has witnessed significant interventions Sciences (KFAS) is a unique national Foundation by KFAS. The Foundation provided support for that strives to promote and support science, research projects at its affiliated centers such as technology and innovation, thus contributing to Dasman Diabetes Institute, which was established realizing sustainable development in the State of in 2006, and Jaber Al-Ahmad Center for Nuclear Kuwait. Through its privileged position, KFAS plays a Medicine and Molecular Imaging. The support has catalyst role in exploring the horizons of science and included activities in medical treatment, training and knowledge, utilizing available potential resources of raising awareness. On the other hand, the funded the stake holders, and promoting real progress in the workshops and scientific conferences have enticed multiple facets of knowledge, science and technology. individuals and institutions to promote educational The continuous support and patronage of KFAS and research capacity building, knowledge exchange, Chairman, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- and eagerness to be abreast of the latest scientific Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, enables it to aspire and research in their fields. In this particular year, KFAS look forward to becoming the incubator of ideas that has focused on supporting research projects related supports and engages future sustainability leaders be to public health, such as efforts to find cures for it scientists, researchers, academics, youth, Kuwaiti various cancer diseases, in addition to encouraging shareholding companies, relevant public and private civil society and non-governmental bodies to launch sectors, and non-government organizations, to work their research activities. In that same year, KFAS in tandem on disseminating and taking advantage of has concluded many agreements and memoranda the research findings. In this context, KFAS focuses of understanding with local agencies, such as on doubling the return on its limited resources by the Ministry of Health in Kuwait and international maximizing the advantage from its unique position organizations, such as the American Association to make a positive difference by its activities and the for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) to achieve support it avails. KFAS’ main objective in encouraging the development of scientific research, establishing a research The Research Directorate aims to achieve the overall and scientific culture in Kuwait, and exchanging objectives of the Foundation through its strategy that experiences, especially with the like of AAAS in size is founded on fostering a culture of scientific research and stature. It is worth mentioning that KFAS, through and contributing to support the fundamentals its Research Directorate, has contributed in funding of research and technology development. The nearly 1,019 research projects amounting to about Foundation also seeks to stimulate cooperation 46 million Kuwaiti dinars, (equivalent to 155$ million), among national research institutions and international since its inception and until the end of 2015. counterparts to advance scientific research and activate the role of the scientific community in finding Significant progress in identifying and prioritizing solutions to major challenges faced by Kuwait and/ areas of research, which target to tackle and or to create new opportunities for promising research serve national interests of the State of Kuwait, and technological applications. By implementing has led to the development of a number of pilot this strategy, KFAS, through research funding and projects implemented collaboratively by national support, seeks to complement the government’s and international research institutions to address role in funding research allocated in the budgets of sustainable development challenges in Kuwait. This national institutions and affiliated entities, such as approach has been realized through memoranda of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Kuwait understanding signed with a number of international University, the Ministry of Health, and others. The research institutions such as the Massachusetts work done by the research directorate has gained a Institute of Technology and the London School of strong momentum in recent years as evident in the Economics. partnerships established between national scientific entities and renowned international scientific Finally, this year’s achievements reflect the institutions and universities. The new policy adopted commitment of the Kuwait Foundation for by the Directorate to invite potential applicants to Advancement of Sciences in performing its role request funding on a semi-annual basis, has led to an successfully. These successes celebrate its efforts in increase in the number of proposals received from making a difference on the front of enhancing the academia, government institutions, ministries, Kuwaiti development of the culture of science, technology, shareholding companies, and NGO’s, on one hand, innovation in the State of Kuwait. These achievements and has given the Research Directorate more latitude would not have materialized without the significant to select the best proposals that are compatible with role played by the Kuwaiti shareholding companies, the Foundation’s priorities, on the other. These results which spare no efforts in supporting and financing reflect not only the strong response of the scientific the programs and the goals of the Foundation. community but also emphasize the importance of KFAS initiative in the development of science by presenting new channels to explore the frontiers of knowledge and address issues of national priority. Dr. Adnan Shihab-Eldin 11 Research Directorate

12 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | The Director General’s Message

The Research Directorate aims at enhancing and integrating research and development capacity in and among Kuwaiti Scien- Research tific Institutions to address national development priorities. RD also actively engages with Office of International Program (OIP) at KFAS and the Dasman Diabetic Institute (DDI) by supporting Directorate their research activities. Through the RD, KFAS initiates proactive focused programs in areas of national priorities such as water, energy, and environment. Focused programs under this strategic (RD) thrust will favor integrated multi institutional efforts (public and private sector, and international institutions) that solve significant problems, and/or create opportunities for further research and technological applications.

The bi-annual call for research proposals, which was first introduced in 2013, together with the establishment of the research funding council (RFC) ensured that the funding is awarded to high quality proposals that are best aligned with research priority areas related to the environment, water, energy and health in addition to those that look for solutions to major problems in Ku- wait such as traffic & housing. In 2015 RD continued its outreach efforts with its stakeholders and played a major role in formulating a draft memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Health to support research capacity building and to facilitate better utilization of KFAS services in this regard. RD also reached out to the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) to explore ways to benefit from their expertise in order to enhance achievements of its strategic objectives. Discussions were also initiated with the British council; to strengthen collaboration with the British institutions in research with respect to capacity building and exploring areas of collaborative research.

In order to assess the impact of KFAS research funding activities on the local Research & Development system in Kuwait, the RD commissioned a study to quantify the essential metrics associated with research impact, particularly in terms of the scientific publication resulting from KFAS’ grants. This information once determined will be valuable to compare the long term significance of KFAS research funding and could help management to shift focus accordingly.

13 1. SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMS Research Grant Program The broad objective of the Research Grant Program of Science (AAAs) to Identify the areas of col- is to participate in promoting effective scientific re- laboration prior to finalizing the memorandum of search by enhancing the research capacities of the understanding. Kuwaiti youth and supporting advanced scientific research, particularly those with significant rele- Environment Program vance to the State of Kuwait. This program is the main portal through which all research grant appli- This Program aims to facilitate advanced environ- cations are received (applied, basic, national and ment research and multi-disciplinary research in na- industrial research), evaluated, funded and mon- tional priority areas, as well as to support innovative itored. KFAS also encourages collaborative long- research solutions. It strives to develop a long-term term research ventures by national institutes that strategic plan on environmental sustainability in order are undertaken in coordination with international to accomplish sustainable development in the State academic and scientific organizations. of Kuwait. It also ventures to assist in setting effective long-term activities to introduce environmental sus- The main activities undertaken under the program tainability concepts in the curricula of colleges and in 2015 can be summarized as follows: schools. Some of the major activities that took place in 2015 under the program were as follows: • The Research Grant Manual was revised with updated information. • Lecture by Sir Richard Roberts, Nobel Prize win- ner in Physiology or Medicine 1993, titled “Why I • All new research proposals received under the love Bacteria” at Hamad Al Essa auditorium, Ku- nd ‘Call for Research Proposal’ cycles (2 November wait Foundation for the Advancement of Scienc- th th th 2014 to 15 January 2015 and 6 April 2015 to 4 es that was attended by more than 250 peoples. June 2015) were scrutinized and evaluated. • Workshop titled “Kuwait National BioBank Initia- • Identifying the areas of collaboration with the tive” held by Dr Pierre Comizzoli from USA. Kuwait Ministry of Health to support scientific research collaboration and initiating the process to • Sponsoring a workshop titled “Capacity Building formulate a memorandum of understanding. to Set-up a National Strategy to Combat Desert- ification” which brought together the scientific • Intensive discussions took place between KFAS and public community to discuss how Kuwait can and American Association for the Advancement combat desertification.

14 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Scientific Programs

• Sponsored and participeted the Arab Forum for certified energy auditors. Also, a Train-the-Trainer Environment and Development in Beirut, Leba- session was given to selected certified auditors to non. qualify them to be trainers.

Water and Energy Program • Representing KFAS and delivering a lecture at Expo Milan 2015 about “KFAS Initiatives in Wa- The main objectives of the program are to support ter and Energy Conservation”. An English version the development of research capacity within na- of a documentary about the odyssey of water in tional scientific institutions and to establish links be- Kuwait has been prepared and distributed in the tween relevant institutions dealing with water and Kuwait Pavilion at the Expo. energy research. The program also aims to support pilot projects focused on improving production effi- 2. FUNDING SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ciency and optimal utilization of water and electricity. The main activities of the program for 2015 can A Portion of contributions from Kuwaiti Sharehold- be summarized as follows: ing Companies (currently at 1.0 percent of their annual net profit) constitute KFAS’ research fund, • Facilitated and participated in the organization which is utilized to sustain and promote national re- of the workshop titled “desalination of sea wa- search. There are specific rules and regulations that ter using solar energy” between 25 and 27 May govern the research grant award process. Research 2015, with the cooperation of Kuwait Institute for project proposals are solicited from local academic, Scientific Research and the participation of ten public and private institutions within the State of international speakers from France, Germany, Ita- Kuwait. The evaluation process of the reserch pro- ly, Singapore and Korea. During the workshop an posals is summarized in the following sections outline of a proposal for a pilot project to study the feasibility of implementing a solar-powered Research Project Submission water desalination plant was formulated. It is anticipated that KFAS will contribute to fund this (Proposal) pilot project. The Research Directorate receives applications for grant awards from local institutions in the form of Facilitated and participated in the organization • research proposals. All research proposals should of the workshop titled “Water Security in Kuwait provide clear and descriptive account of the re- and the Gulf Cooperation Council” in coopera- search that is proposed, including the research ob- tion with the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Re- jectives, budget, methodology, output, citations, search in November 2nd with the presence of a etc. along with duly filled KFAS forms and CVs of large number of specialists from Kuwait and the the main researchers involved in the project. Re- Gulf Cooperation Council to provide recommen- searchers may refer to ‘The Research Grant Man- dations in this regard. ual’ that can be found on our website for any clar- • Launched the Inauguration ceremony of so- ifications on the procedures, evaluation standards lar energy pilot project that was completed in or project execution. Applicants’ adherence to the Al-Zahra Co. op “Energy Efficiency and Photo- guidelines will facilitate and expedite the evaluation voltaic Systems Pilot Applications for Selected and grant award process. Co-operative Society Supermarkets” on May 20th under the patronage of the Minister of Social Af- Research Project Evaluation and fairs and Labor, in addition to the presence of Funding Mechanisms the Minister of Education and Higher Education and the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Elec- The mechanism of evaluating research proposals was tricity and Water, the inauguration included a improved over the years since KFAS’ inception. The launch of a media campaign in this regard. aim was to secure a better, comprehensive and scientific decision-making process to support the research • Organized and participated in the Seminar titled project. The process of evaluation comprises of three “Sustainable Applications in Lighting” with the inter-dependent stages: (a) preliminary evaluation attendance of around 160 persons from various by the Research Directorate (review of the general institutions, including around 90 students from format, the administrative and financial aspects); (b) a high school in October 22nd. The seminar was inviting referees and experts for scientific evaluation held on the occasion of the “International Year of the project; and (c) the decision-making stage of Light” and the “World Energy Day”. A booklet wherein the proposed project is recommended for explaining how to choose energy efficient light- support, modifications or rejection. ing was prepared specially for the occasion and distributed to the attendees. In order to expedite the different processes and expand the information database, the Research • Facilitated and participated in the organization of Directorate set up a network of local, regional and the training course “Certified Energy Auditor”, held international scientific peer-reviewers as well as in- for the first time in Kuwait from 14 to 18 December, house experts in specific scientific disciplines. The in coordination with the Association of Energy En- entire process of evaluation was based on standard gineers in the USA and its Kuwait Chapter housed international criteria approved by RD, especially in KISR. The training course qualified a number of with reference to technical, administrative and fi- engineers from KISR, KFAS, Ministry of Electricity nancial data, scientific merit and relevance to the and Water, Ministry of Education, and the Public country. Authority for Applied Education and Training to be

15 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Funding Scientific Research

The Principal Investigators as well as the affiliated 3. DOCUMENTATION & institutions are, to a great extent, responsible for the smooth functioning of the evaluation and funding DISSEMINATION OF SCIENTIFIC mechanisms. A carefully revised project proposal INFORMATION containing all the required details, prior to submission to the Research Directorate, will undoubtedly This activity, which is significant to all RD programs, expedite the implementation of the procedures, is concerned with the recording of vital scientific thus advancing to the next level, namely, the proj- information pertaining to researchers and their ex- ect execution process. The review process adopted pertise in scientific disciplines as well as research by RD is in accordance with international scientific accomplishments undertaken on periodical basis. standards and regulations (Fig. 1). Concerted efforts were directed towards establishing an excellent network of information for the benefit of the scientific community for referential Proposal purposes. Hence, focus was on developing an efficient research database system, as well as printing, RD Director publishing, documenting and automated archiving of pertinent scientific information. Research Evaluation Committee (REC) The main objectives of RD under this activity are as follows: Transfer to Cover Letter relevant program Project Assessment · Provide technical and documentation support to Scientific Community. No Compliance Amend Project with KFAS Proposal Declination Policy · Create appropriate opportunities for interaction with organizations, researchers and experts out- Yes side KFAS.

Internal Evaluation External Peer Process Review · Expand the information base on KFAS and its re- Relevant search-sponsoring activities at the local and in- Modifications recommended Not recommended for ternational levels. KFAS Funding Decision The Research Directorate kept track of important publications of research reports and encouraged Grant Approval researchers to disseminate their research results in leading international journals.

Fig. 1. Research Project Evaluation Process 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 ap- Research Project Execution plications and the concluding recommendations. Following the review process and the approval for The valuable information is reviewed, published and research funding, a contract is signed by KFAS and archived by RD for future references and distribu- the beneficiary institute(s), in accordance with the tion to concerned parties. stipulated conditions. Henceforth, RD monitors the Annual Report: Every year RD publishes the An- progress of the project until its completion, review- nual Report, both in English and Arabic, which ing all the interim reports submitted by the project chronicles the scientific accomplishments, research leader. Periodical payment schedule is activated trends and directions, statistics and information on only on compliance with the or contract conditions. all KFAS-funded research projects that were implemented during the reporting year.

Distribution: RD distributed scientific reports to top local organizations, Kuwait Shareholding Compa- nies, academic institutions, regional and international organizations, embassies in Kuwait as well as Kuwaiti cultural attaches abroad. The Annual Re- port is circulated to local and international scientific communities, government authorities, academic institutions, as well as diplomats world-wide.

During the reporting year, RD received 55 project progress reports, 28 published scientific papers and 46 final reports.

16 17 Denmark PEER-REVIEWER INSTITUTIONS University of Tartu Sweden In 2015, (885) local, regional and international peer reviewers were contacted, Chalmers University of Technology Karolinska Institutet to evaluate new, ongoing and completed projects. We received (323) evalua- Lund University Poland tions distributed across the following institutions: Mälardalen University Nicolaus Copernicus University Örebro University Stockholm University Swedish University of Agricultural Austria Canada Sciences Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt ChemTec Laboratories University of Gothenburg Medical University Vienna Concordia University Vienna University of Technology McGill University United States of America McMaster University Columbia University Memorial University of United Kingdom United States Department of Agriculture Newfoundland City University London Switzerland (USDA Université du Québec Duke University School of Medicine Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule University of Illinois University of Alberta Loughborough University Zürich Utah State University University of British Columbia Oxford Institute for Energy Studies Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Baylor College of Medicine Estonia Vancouver Royal Holloway University of Lausanne Finnish Meteorological Institute Baylor University University of Calgary London University of Neuchatel BloodCenter of Wisconsin University of Ontario Teesside University Boston University University of Toronto The Open University Greece California Lutheran University University of Victoria University College London Carnegie Mellon University Hellenic Centre for Marine University of Waterloo University of Bath Research (HCMR) Colorado School of Mines York University University of Birmingham Columbia University National Agricultural Research University of Cambridge Foundation (NAGREF) Cornell University University of Central Lancashire Desert Research Institute University of Leeds Illinois Institute of Technology University of Southampton Serbia Iowa State University University of Sussex University of Niˇs James Madison University University of Warwick Jet Propulsion Laboratory World Renewable Energy Congress India Johns Hopkins Hospital Aligarh Muslim University Johns Hopkins University Ukraine Cairn Energy India Pty Ltd Lehigh University Ireland Ternopil National Pedagogical University Indian Institute of Technology Louisiana State University Dublin Institute of Technology, International Crops Research Thailand Louisiana Tech University National University of Ireland Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics King Mongkut›s University of Massachusetts General Hospital Teagasc Food Research Centre Turkey (ICRISAT) Technology Thonburi Massachusetts Institute of Technology University College Dublin Bogazici University Jawaharlal Nehru University Mayo Clinic Kadir Has University Manipal University McLean Hospital National Institute of Technology Japan Miami University University of Delhi Kanagawa Academy of Science Montana State University and Technology Mount Sinai Hospital Kyushu University National Center for Atmospheric Research The University of Tokyo North Carolina State University State of Kuwait Tokyo University of Marine Science Northeastern University and Technology Ohio State University Oregon State University Research Iran Purdue University Kuwait University University of Isfahan Rutgers Business School - Newark and New Ministry of Health Brunswick Public Authority for Applied St. Cloud State University Education and Training State University of New York Texas A&M University Portugal Universidade Nova de Lisboa Taiwan Texas Christian University National Taiwan University Texas Tech University University of Porto Sultanate of Oman The Boston Children›s Hospital Sultan Qaboos University The College of William and Mary The Ohio State University The Pennsylvania State University Spain The University of Akron Institute of Natural Resources and The University of Oklahoma Agrobiology of Seville (IRNAS) The University of Texas at Austin University of Valladolid The University of Texas at Dallas Malaysia United Arab Emirates Universiti Putra Malaysia The University of Texas MD Anderson American University in the Emirates Cancer Center Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) France Central Veterinary Research Laboratory Tufts University Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi United States Department of Agriculture Euro-Mediterranean Information System (EMWIS) Institute of Management Technology University Hospitals Case Medical Center Dubai Singapore University of California Los Angeles Masdar Institute National University of Singapore University of California Santa Barbara United Arab Emirates University University of California, Berkeley University of Sharjah University of California, Irvine University of Colorado at Boulder University of Connecticut Qatar University of Delaware Belgium Qatar Environment and Energy University of Florida Ghent University Research Institute Sri Lanka University of Georgia Royal Military Academy of Belgium Qatar University University of Peradeniya University of Kansas University of Mons University of Maryland University of Miami Kingdom of Saudi Arabia China University of Nebraska-Lincoln Netherlands King Saud University Chinese Academy of University of Nevada Eindhoven University of Technology King Abdulaziz University Sciences University of New Hampshire King Fahd University of Petroleum and National Tsing Hua University of North Carolina School of Minerals (KFUPM)| University Medicine King Khalid University The Hong Kong New Zealand The University of North Carolina at Chapel The Netherlands University of Canterbury Delft University of Technology Polytechnic University Hill Zhejiang Academy of University of North Dakota TU Delft University of Technology VU University Jordan Agricultural Sciences University of Notre Dame Arab Open University University of Oregon Jordan University University of Pennsylvania Germany Jordan University of Science and Technology University of Pittsburgh Leibniz Universität Hannover Mutah University University of Texas El Paso Niedersächsisches Institut für The Hashemite University University of Texas Pan-American Wirtschaftsforschung University of Jordan University of Washington Technische Universität Darmstadt Yarmouk University University of Wisconsin-Madison University of Heidelberg Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University of Kassel University (Virginia Tech); University of Lepzig Lebanon Australia Washington University American University of Beirut West Virginia University Research Organisation (CSIRO) Western Michigan University Brazil Italy Palestine Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution University of Vermont James Cook University IBIMET-CNR An-Najah National University La Trobe University Worcester Polytechnic Institute Università di Bologna The Islamic University of Gaza Yale University Murdoch University University College Dublin Queensland University of Technology Argentina University of Milan Universidad Tecnológica Nacional Egypt RMIT University Alexandria University The University of Adelaide National Institute of Oceanography and The University of Melbourne Fisheries (NIOF) The University of Sydney University of New South Wales University of Queensland University of South Australia University of Tasmania University of Technology University of Western Sydney

18 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | PEER-REVIEWER INSTITUTIONS

Denmark PEER-REVIEWER INSTITUTIONS University of Tartu Sweden Chalmers University of Technology Karolinska Institutet Lund University Poland Mälardalen University Nicolaus Copernicus University Örebro University Stockholm University Swedish University of Agricultural Austria Canada Sciences Alpen-Adria-Universität Klagenfurt ChemTec Laboratories University of Gothenburg Medical University Vienna Concordia University Vienna University of Technology McGill University United States of America McMaster University Columbia University Memorial University of United Kingdom United States Department of Agriculture Newfoundland City University London Switzerland (USDA Université du Québec Duke University School of Medicine Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule University of Illinois University of Alberta Loughborough University Zürich Utah State University University of British Columbia Oxford Institute for Energy Studies Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Baylor College of Medicine Estonia Vancouver Royal Holloway University of Lausanne Finnish Meteorological Institute Baylor University University of Calgary London University of Neuchatel BloodCenter of Wisconsin University of Ontario Teesside University Boston University University of Toronto The Open University Greece California Lutheran University University of Victoria University College London Carnegie Mellon University Hellenic Centre for Marine University of Waterloo University of Bath Research (HCMR) Colorado School of Mines York University University of Birmingham Columbia University National Agricultural Research University of Cambridge Foundation (NAGREF) Cornell University University of Central Lancashire Desert Research Institute University of Leeds Illinois Institute of Technology University of Southampton Serbia Iowa State University University of Sussex University of Niˇs James Madison University University of Warwick Jet Propulsion Laboratory World Renewable Energy Congress India Johns Hopkins Hospital Aligarh Muslim University Johns Hopkins University Ukraine Cairn Energy India Pty Ltd Lehigh University Ireland Ternopil National Pedagogical University Indian Institute of Technology Louisiana State University Dublin Institute of Technology, International Crops Research Thailand Louisiana Tech University National University of Ireland Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics King Mongkut›s University of Massachusetts General Hospital Teagasc Food Research Centre Turkey (ICRISAT) Technology Thonburi Massachusetts Institute of Technology University College Dublin Bogazici University Jawaharlal Nehru University Mayo Clinic Kadir Has University Manipal University McLean Hospital National Institute of Technology Japan Miami University University of Delhi Kanagawa Academy of Science Montana State University and Technology Mount Sinai Hospital Kyushu University National Center for Atmospheric Research The University of Tokyo North Carolina State University State of Kuwait Tokyo University of Marine Science Northeastern University and Technology Ohio State University Oregon State University Research Iran Purdue University Kuwait University University of Isfahan Rutgers Business School - Newark and New Ministry of Health Brunswick Public Authority for Applied St. Cloud State University Education and Training State University of New York Texas A&M University Portugal Universidade Nova de Lisboa Taiwan Texas Christian University National Taiwan University Texas Tech University University of Porto Sultanate of Oman The Boston Children›s Hospital Sultan Qaboos University The College of William and Mary The Ohio State University The Pennsylvania State University Spain The University of Akron Institute of Natural Resources and The University of Oklahoma Agrobiology of Seville (IRNAS) The University of Texas at Austin University of Valladolid The University of Texas at Dallas Malaysia United Arab Emirates Universiti Putra Malaysia The University of Texas MD Anderson American University in the Emirates Cancer Center Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) France Central Veterinary Research Laboratory Tufts University Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi United States Department of Agriculture Euro-Mediterranean Information System (EMWIS) Institute of Management Technology University Hospitals Case Medical Center Dubai Singapore University of California Los Angeles Masdar Institute National University of Singapore University of California Santa Barbara United Arab Emirates University University of California, Berkeley University of Sharjah University of California, Irvine University of Colorado at Boulder University of Connecticut Qatar University of Delaware Belgium Qatar Environment and Energy University of Florida Ghent University Research Institute Sri Lanka University of Georgia Royal Military Academy of Belgium Qatar University University of Peradeniya University of Kansas University of Mons University of Maryland University of Miami Kingdom of Saudi Arabia China University of Nebraska-Lincoln Netherlands King Saud University Chinese Academy of University of Nevada Eindhoven University of Technology King Abdulaziz University Sciences University of New Hampshire King Fahd University of Petroleum and National Tsing Hua University of North Carolina School of Minerals (KFUPM)| University Medicine King Khalid University The Hong Kong New Zealand The University of North Carolina at Chapel The Netherlands University of Canterbury Delft University of Technology Polytechnic University Hill Zhejiang Academy of University of North Dakota TU Delft University of Technology VU University Jordan Agricultural Sciences University of Notre Dame Arab Open University University of Oregon Jordan University University of Pennsylvania Germany Jordan University of Science and Technology University of Pittsburgh Leibniz Universität Hannover Mutah University University of Texas El Paso Niedersächsisches Institut für The Hashemite University University of Texas Pan-American Wirtschaftsforschung University of Jordan University of Washington Technische Universität Darmstadt Yarmouk University University of Wisconsin-Madison University of Heidelberg Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University of Kassel University (Virginia Tech); University of Lepzig Lebanon Australia Washington University American University of Beirut West Virginia University Research Organisation (CSIRO) Western Michigan University Brazil Italy Palestine Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution University of Vermont James Cook University IBIMET-CNR An-Najah National University La Trobe University Worcester Polytechnic Institute Università di Bologna The Islamic University of Gaza Yale University Murdoch University University College Dublin Queensland University of Technology Argentina University of Milan Universidad Tecnológica Nacional Egypt RMIT University Alexandria University The University of Adelaide National Institute of Oceanography and The University of Melbourne Fisheries (NIOF) The University of Sydney University of New South Wales University of Queensland University of South Australia University of Tasmania University of Technology University of Western Sydney

19 Statistical Profile

20 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Statistical Profile

1. Annual Statistical Indicators (2015) During the fiscal year, KFAS funded 80 new research projects under three major programs, namely, the Research Grant Program, Environment Program and Water & Energy Program. The total funds approved by KFAS for the new projects in basic and applied research amounted to K.D. 6,515,683.392

Table (1) depicts the distribution of funds allocated to newly approved research projects under the major programs.

Table (1): KFAS’ Contribution to New Research Projects (2015)

Program Projects Amount in (KD)

Research Grant 46 1,841,751.287 Environment 20 1,085,014.000 Water and Energy 14 3,588,918.105 TOTAL 80 *6,515,683.392

The following Table enlists the beneficiaries of the newly approved funds during the fiscal year 2015:

Table (2): Beneficiaries of the New Research Grants (2015)

KFAS Contribution Institutions Projects (KD) Kuwait University 20 2,046,529.360 National Technology Enterprises Company (NTEC)** 1 1,700,000.000 Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research 21 1,308,774.640 Massachusetts Institute of Technology 1 914,824.625 Gulf University for Science and Technology 17 207,244.740 Public Authority for Applied Education and Training 3 94,700.000 Women’s Cultural and Social Society 1 55,900.000 AGi Architects 1 37,125.000 Oxford Institute for Energy Studies 1 30,120.480 Ministry of Health 4 28,742.000 University of Western Ontario 1 15,780.000 University of California, Berkeley 1 10,217.047 University of Manitoba 1 10,000.000 Environment Public Authority 1 9,873.000 Plymouth University 1 9,800.000 Royal Holloway University of London 1 9,310.000 Wright State University 1 9,172.500 American University of Kuwait 1 7,885.000 Kuwait Economic Society 1 5,200.000 Arizona State University 1 4,485.000 TOTAL 80 *6,515,683.392

* Includes KFAS contribution in special projects of (K.D. 2,900,000).

* Excludes Additional fund of K.D 75,934.12

** Project manager only.

21 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Statistical Profile

2. Key Performance Indicators (2015) The Research Directorate continued to devote its efforts to promote quantitative and qualitative outcomes in scientific research and technological development. The Directorate’s activities were aimed at ensuring adequate peer-review mechanism, improving proposal/project processing time, promoting quality research, encouraging scientific publications and enhancing young researcher skills as well as supporting joint national and international scientific collaborations.

Following are RD tasks/activities that were accomplished during the fiscal year:

• New research grant applications received and processed – 103. • New research project contracts executed under the three programs – 80 (Table 3 and Figure 2) which includes 8 Graduate Student Research Grants. • Research projects monitored (New, Ongoing, Completed) – 201 (Table 3). • No. of Payments released to the mojor recipients during the year – 190 total amount – K.D. 3,689,429 (Table 4-5). • Project progress reports received and evaluated – 55 (Table 6). • Final project reports received and assessed – 46. • Scientific papers (KFAS-sponsored research) published in international journals – 28. • Peer-reviewers/consultants contacted – 885. • Peer-reviewers/consultants who participated in scientific evaluation – 323. • Research proposals rejected after scientific evaluations – 60. • Research proposals cancelled upon project leaders’ request – 6. • Joint research collaborations – 7.

Table (3). Research Projects by Scientific Program

Program New Ongoing Completed Total Research Grant 46 55 25 126 Environment 20 12 13 45 Water and Energy 14 14 2 30 Total 80 81 40 201

Table (4). KFAS Research Grant Payments Released in 2015

No. of KFAS Contribution Program Payments (KD) Research Grant 97 1,650,250 Environment 51 671,632 Water and Energy 42 1,367,547 Total 190 3,689,429

22 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Statistical Profile

Table (5). Major Recipients of Research Grant Payments in 2015

No. of KFAS Contribution Institutions Payments (KD) Kuwait University 41 1,215,751 Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research 43 738,467 Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA 2 507,769 National Technology Enterprises Company* 18 495,853 IMEC, Belgium 2 135,047 Gulf University for Science and Technology 20 124,651 The Hospital for Sick Children, Canada 1 100,085 Public Authority for Applied Education & Training 6 67,475 MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA 1 28,000 Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, UK 3 22,080 Others 53 254,251 TOTAL 190 3,689,429

* Project manager only.

Table (6). Progress Reports Reviewed in 2015

Program Number of Reports Research Grant 35 Environment 9 Water and Energy 11 Total 55

During the fiscal year, KFAS grants were diverted to multi-institutional research projects in applied sciences that address national concerns, as well as research that have vital implications on the State and its diverse sectors, undertaken by national academic and scientific institutions.

Figure (2). Distribution of Newly Funded Projects by Programs (2015)

Water & Energy Program Environment 18% Program 25%

Research Grant Program 57%

23 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Statistical Profile

3. Comparative Indicators (2012-2015)

KD 7,000,000 90

80 KD 6000,000 70 KD 5,000,000 60

KD 4,000,000 50

KD 3,000,000 40

30 KD 2,000,000 20 KD 1,000,000 10

KD 0 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 KD 7,000,000 90 KFAS Contribution Number of Projects 80 KD 6000,000 Figure (3). KFAS Contributions (K.D.) vs. Number of Newly Funded Projects (2012-2015)70 KD 5,000,000 60 Figure 3 shows a significant increase in number of KFAS funded projects, by almost 100%. Com- paring to theKD previous 4,000,000 year. It also demonstrates that KFAS monetary contribution has50 increased by 25.5% compared to 2014, this in light of the Research Directorate’s efforts towards encouraging 40 research proposal85 KD 3,000,000 submission and creating an enabling research environment.80 80 75 30 KD 2,000,000 Worthy to70 note are RD’s research capacity building initiatives which comprise of workshops, train- 20 ing courses65 and seminars. These culminated in an increase in the total number of submitted propos- 60 KD 1,000,000 als; 80 of which were selected for funding. 10 55 50 48 50 KD 0 0 45 40 2012 2013 2014 2015 40 Joint-thematic,35 multi-institutionalKFAS and Contribution multi-PI research Numberinitiatives of Projects have promising prospects for the 30 future of a25 nation, as they are coordinated efforts to address urgent issues of national concern, as well as scientific,20 environmental and technological challenges. Therefore, KFAS continued to sus- 12 15 10 11 tain the momentum this year also by providing ample support for collaborative7 projects (Figure 4), namely, joint10 scientific initiatives and multi-institutional scientific undertakings, both at the national 5 and international0 levels. 2012 2013 2014 2015

85 Number of funded projects Number of joint research collaborations 80 80 75 70 65 60 55 50 48 50 45 40 40 35 30 25 20 12 15 10 11 7 10 5 0 2012 2013 2014 2015

Number of funded projects Number of joint research collaborations

Figure (4). Number of Collaborative Research Projects vs. Newly Funded Projects (2012-2015)

24 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Statistical Profile

4. Cumulative Indicators (1978-2015) Cumulative figures reiterate KFAS’ continued support for more than three decades towards the advancement of the sciences, particularly, national scientific research. Since the inception of KFAS, the total contributions have amounted to KD 45,873,406.772 for 1019 research projects (Table 7).

KFAS’ role is rooted in its mission to support overall national development and enhanced technical and scientific progress in the nation. Over the years, KFAS has upheld its noble vision with the implementation of relevant programs, projects and activities that sustain institutional development, whether academic or research or centers of excellence within the State of Kuwait.

Table 7. KFAS Research Funding Contribution Since Inception (1978-2015)

KFAS Contribution Institution Number of Amount in % % projects KD Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research 354 35 18,435,314.290 40 Kuwait University 303 30 12,522,001.360 27 Public Authority for Applied Education & 75 7 1,199,764.000 3 Training Ministry of Health 36 4 922,638.000 2 Others 251 25 12,793,689.122 28 Total 1019 100 45,873,406.772 100

Under the Assigned Research Funding Program, 19 projects were supported since 1978, 14 projects in Social Sciences, 2 in Engineering Sciences, 1 project in Biological Sciences and 2 environmental projects. The project on Dictionary of the Holy Quran is ongoing. (Table.8)

Table 8. Total Funds for Assigned Research Projects (1985-2015)

KFAS Contribution Area Completed Ongoing Total in K.D. Social Sciences & Humanities 13 1 14 3,127,100 Engineering Sciences & Technology 2 - 2 97,721 Biological Sciences 1 - 1 270,676 Environment 1 1 2 80,000

Total 1 7 2 19 3,575,497

25 Research Grant Program

Completed Projects 25 Ongoing Projects 55 New Projects 46

26 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant

Potential Scientific Partnerships Promote Enhanced Growth & Development

During the fiscal year, KFAS-funded research undertakings pertained to cross-sectional surveys to establish a comprehensive national baseline data, implementation of novel techniques and technologies for accelerated access to digital data, alternative approaches and conceptual modeling for improved processes in communication technology. Studies reported on preliminary findings in the areas of business, real estate market, trade, commerce and investment. Societal concerns and legal matters were also ventured so as to set up suitable paradigms and framework for developmental purposes and processes. Researches focused on deciphering special archived documents, which were expected to shed much light on the regional political and cultural history. Other subjects of investigations included Arabian literature, art, contemporary theater and cinema.

Some of the advanced and intensive medical experimentations addressed crucial healthcare concerns, with the major objective of providing enhanced quality of life in the State of Kuwait. A spectrum of medical projects emerged, dealing with novel treatments for cancers, genetic mapping of congenital disorders, as well as diagnostic, theoretic and therapeutic solutions to critical or life-threatening diseases and health trends. Scientists also proposed to develop predictive models which have valuable inference on prevalent clinical conditions. Pioneering studies in stem cell research reported on progress accomplished in the year.

Empirical and feasibility studies attempted to unravel the dynamics of Kuwait’s ecosystem, address prevailing challenges and provide valuable recommendations for the future. In keeping with national interests, scientists from academic and scientific institutions focused on applied research, addressing emerging concerns that have relevant implications on indigenous industries - petroleum, poultry and dairy.

Concerted efforts were exerted by researchers to survey and optimize educational outcomes for promoting English language proficiency, scientific literacy, web-based academic writing, as well as promoting enhanced e-learning and instructional methods. Investigators also reported on utilizing a new platform in Artificial Intelligence for thermal face recognition. Investigation subjects also included career development and talent management, youth capacity-building, business budgeting techniques and business practices.

Scientific partnerships and inter-disciplinary research with world class institutions (IMEC, Belgium, MD Anderson Cancer Center, George Washington University, University of Washington in Seattle, U.S.A, etc.) set the impetus for higher goals, broader perspectives and greater exchange of scientific know-how for accomplishing strategic outcomes.

27 Completed Projects

Composting Poultry Waste (2006-1207-10)

S. Al-Ghawas, H. Al-Mansour, A. Naseeb, E.Al-Ali and D. Ghloum

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

In this applied research investigation, on a pilot scale, with a leading local poultry company (KUPCO), a three-stage composting process was perfected to deal with their organic waste. The initial stage was the undisturbed layering of dead birds, bird manure, and acquired municipal yard waste at a ratio of 1:1:2, respectively; this combination provided an ideal C:N ratio of 30:1. The matrix had initial moisture content of about 65%, and due to the heterogenic particle size of the yard waste, it remained aerobic with oxygen content above 5%. At this stage, the matrix temperature rapidly reached the lower thermophilic in the 50°C range, where in 20 to 25 d all parts of the chicken carcass were unrecognized. The second stage involved the frequent back and forth turning of the composting matrix between the back-to-back bins of each composting chamber to invigorate the composting process by additional aeration while simultaneously replenishing the evaporated water and mixing the materials. This was carried out by the use of a front skid loader. During this stage (15 d), the composting matrix temperature increased to the higher thermophilic range of > 65°C and often more than 70°C. This ensured the sterilization of the generated materials from any waste-associated pathogenic agents. The third stage involved sieving the materials to remove large undecomposed woody yard waste pieces, and then allowing the composted materials to continue the transformation process with the occupational turning and watering until the composting process was completed.

The Dewar self-heating apparatus was successfully used to determine compost stability which was indicated highly stable in 128 d, including during the curing stage and after fine sieving. The duration could be reduced to less than 100 d if proper equipment and trained staff were available on demand. The generated compost quality test were in line, with the exception of its salinity status due to the use of brackish groundwater in maintaining the matrix moisture content. Nevertheless, the bio-assay test using radish plants and commercial pot1ing potting soil as control indicated that the generated materials were as good. Furthermore, the economic assessment revealed that the composted materials was generated at a cost of 8 to 10 KD/m3 which could be further reduced at higher production levels and with proper equipment and trained staff.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 41,200

Total budget: K.D 142,260 28 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

High Resolution Mapping and Positional Cloning of Metastasis Suppressor Genes in Colorectal Cancer (2006-1302-07)

F. Al-Mulla

Kuwait University

Abstract

Familial breast cancer (BC) represents 5 to 10 % of all BC cases. Mutations in two high susceptibility BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes explain 16–40% of familial BC, while other high, moderate and low susceptibility genes explain up to 20 % more of BC families. The Middle East, including Kuwait, reported prevalence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 deleterious mutations (5.6% and 12.5%) were lower than those reported in the Western literature. In the presented study, 100 patients with a reported family history of BC were tested using Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) technique followed by Sanger sequencing validation. Consequently, 15 pathogenic mutations were found in this study. These 15 mutations were found in 10 different genes; BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53, SLX4, STK11, MSH2, ATM, POLH, PRF1 and CDH1. In this first application of WES on BC in the Middle East, we showed that the overall mutation prevalence is equal to 28.8%, justifying the urgent need of the WES to identify genes responsible for familial BC in our population.

Publications:

Doyle B, Hagan S, Al-Mulla F, Scott L, Harden S, Paul J, Mulcahy H, Murray GI, Sheahan K, O’Sullivan J, Kolch W., Raf Kinase Inhibitor Protein Expression Combined With Peritoneal Involvement And Lymphovascular Invasion Predicts Prognosis In Dukes’ B Colorectal Cancer Patient, Histopathology. 2013 Feb;62(3):505-10.

Fahd Al-Mulla, RKIP-1 and the Cell Cycle: Novel Insight into Genomic Instability, Forum on Immunopatholog- ical Diseases and Therapeutics > Volume 2, 2011 Issue 1.

Fahd Al-Mulla, A Method For Determining Risk Of Metastatic Relapse In A Patient Diagnosed With Colorectal Cancer. PATENT

KFAS contribution: K.D. 174,200

Total budget: K.D. 226,200

Transport of Some Essential Trace Elements across the Human Placenta in Di- abetic Pregnancies in Late Gestation (2010-1302-03)

N. Moorkath

Kuwait University

Abstract

We are glad to report that all the objectives of the project has have been accomplished on a much reduced budget, leading to a saving of more than 25-30% savings in project expenditure too. We are glad to report too that we have obtained original and unpublished data on transport kinetics of essential trace elements like Chromium, Manganese and Vanadium, and we believe that the data obtained with diabetic model perfusions will go a long way in better treatment of diabetic pregnant women and newborns in future too. As per the revised approved plan, 15 successful perfusions of severely diabetic (10g Glucose/L) model perfusions have been accomplished as per the revised tasks mentioned in the project proposal. The data relating to competition between transport of the three trace elements will be watched with added interest by nutri- tionists and clinicians, and this should open another area of research on trace element research in diabetes field as a whole too. I am delighted to report that we are the first to do a systematic maternal-fetal exchange study of transport characteristics of the above elements in a diabetic model of human placentae so far, and no research group has ever attempted such a unique project using human tissues in vitro so far as well . As per the project tasks outlined, placentae from control patients were perfused with known quantities of chromium, manganese and vanadium with antipyrine as reference marker and the fetal vein outflow was collected every 30 seconds for 5 minutes. Then the perfusates were replaced with hyperglycemic load of 27.50 mmol/L of glucose or double the normal amount of glucose in humans and 55.00 mmol/L of glucose and perfusions done and perfusates collected from fetal efflux and maternal circulation as was done as in the case of control perfusion with normoglycemic load. We report data from 15 successful perfusions with normoglycemic load and 15 perfusions with hyperglycemic load though we had to perfuse more than 25 placentae to obtain successful outcome in 15 perfusions, based on parameters such as perfusion flow match, absence of leaks, absence of LDH in fetal perfusates effluents, etc. as guideline parameters to assess successful or valid perfusions (Schneider et al, 1972; Nandakumaran et al, 1981, 1984).

29 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

In experiments exploring the effect of possible competition between trace elements, the trace element concentration in NCTC medium was raised to ten times the physiological dose of the trace element to study the impact of the raised concentration of that element on the transport kinetics of the studied element. We are delighted to report that the preliminary assessment of the competition experiments reveal that chromium, vanadium and manganese compete with each other for transport across the placental membrane, and this has wider implications on unrestricted and un-monitored use of trace element supplements in the control as well as diabetic obstetric population that needs to be explored further. The perfusates were analyzed to determine concentrations of trace elements as well as Antipyrine, the internal reference marker and the results obtained are detailed in the Tables and Figures.

We are pleased to note that one full-length paper in a reputed obstetrics & gynecology scientific journal (J of Maternal-Fetal Neonatal Medicine) has been accepted and is in press, besides, one invited lecture as Invited Speaker at an International Conference. We have published abstracts on chromium, vanadium and manganese transport in the Health Science Centre Poster Conferences and rough drafts of two full-length research papers, based on data obtained from the project work are to be submitted soon to international scientific journals after some more refinements. We hope to publish at least six more full papers from the data obtained from this project, including two more lectures as Invited Speaker at International Conferences abroad as well.

Publication:

Moorkath Nandakumaran, Baydaa Al-Sannan, Hameed Al-Sarraf, and Majed Al-Shammari; Maternal-fetal transport kinetics of manganese in perfused human placental lobule in vitro. Epub 2015 Sep 25.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 77,090

Total budget: K.D. 78,090

A Study of Mechanisms Involved in the Acceleration of Bone Healing in Head and Spinal Cord Injured Patients: A Clinical and Experimental Study (2010- 1302-04) F. Khallaf

Kuwait Institute for Medical Specialization

Abstract

This project has been entitled to research in prospective controlled study of the effect of central nervous tissue damage in severe head injury or spinal cord injury with quadriplegia or paraplegia on bone healing in patients with concomitant long bone fractures of humerus, femur, and tibia. The methodology of the research was comprehensive and included investigations that effect clinically and experimentally on animals, on patients’ blood hormonal bioassay, growth factors and cytokines in patients’ blood, the count of undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells and monocytes in patients’ peripheral circulation, osteoblasts presence in reaming bone debris during intra-medullary nailing, and, finally, on the multiplication and differentiation of undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into osteoblasts in stem cells culture.

From 19/09/2011, we recruited 52 patients with severe head injuries, 50 patients with severe head injuries and associated 58 long bone diaphyseal fractures of humerus, femur, and tibia, 20 patients with spinal cord injuries of quadriplegia or paraplegia, 21 patients with spinal cord injuries and 22 associated long bone fractures, 60 patients with 69 long bone fractures only, and 50 healthy subjects. The long bone fractures in all groups were treated by closed or open reduction and internal fixation and the time for union, the maximal thickness of union callus, and the healing rate have been calculated and compared among different groups. The bony debris obtained during intra-medullary reaming to insert interlocking intra-medullary nails as the most frequently applied method of internal fixation has been studied histopathologically for the presence of the bone forming cells (osteoblasts).

Blood samples were withdrawn from the injured patients in all groups at: a) 24 hours, b) 72 hours, c) one week, d) two weeks, and e) three weeks from the time of injury and once from healthy subjects. 10 ml of blood was withdrawn each time. These blood samples from different patient groups were used to measure the level of stress hormones: parathyroid hormone, growth hormone, corticosteroids, adrenalin, noradren- aline, and leptin hormone, and to measure the levels of growth factors and cytokines of Insulin like growth factor (IGF- II), platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Activin-A transferring growth factor β, and Cytokine Interleukin1 (IL-1). Blood samples were also used to measure the count of circulating undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and monocytes in peripheral blood of patients of all groups, using flow cytometry. The effect of the sera of these blood samples on the multiplication and differentiation of MSCs into osteoblasts in stem cell culture has been also studied.

30 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

The results of the study showed that long bone fractures in head or spinal cord injury patients heal more expectedly, faster, and with exuberant callus in comparison to patients with long bone fractures only which have also delayed union in 7% and non-union in 13% and the bony debris of intra-medullary reaming of femur and tibia from patients with associated severe head injury contained plenty of osteoblasts in (82.9%) of the patients in comparison to the debris from patients with isolated long bone fractures which only revealed scarce presence of osteoblasts histopathologically in (27.5%) of the patients.

The study results also showed that Long bone fractures in combination with head or spinal cord injury resulted in statistically significant higher levels of parathyroid hormone, growth hormone, normal levels of corticosteroids (p<0.005). Patients with long bones fractures only showed consistent and statistically significant higher level of noradrenalin and adrenalin hormones (p<0.001), Leptin hormone showed statistically significant and consistent decrease in patients with head injury or spinal cord injury and concomitant long bone fractures (p<0.001).

The results of the study showed as well that Long bone fractures with head or spinal cord injury demonstrated higher levels of PDGF, VEGF, Activin-A, statistical significance during the 3 weeks of follow-up (P>0.001). IGF-II showed statistically significant subnormal level along the whole follow-up period in patients of head or spinal cord injuries with associated long bone fractures (P>0.005). I-L-1 cytokine showed initial elevation in the first two weeks then, declined to normal levels at the end of the period of follow-up in patients with associated head injury but it remained persistently elevated till the end of follow-up in patients with associated spinal cord injuries (P>0.005).

The results of the study also showed statistically significant increase in undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) count circulating in the peripheral blood of head or spinal cord injury patients with or without long bone fractures, especially, 24 hours post-injury which started declining at the end of the first week (P<0.001). The monocytes count was found elevated statistically significant as well, declining from the end of the first week (P<0.005).

Testing the effect of inflicted traumatic brain injury (TBI) and inflicted spinal cord injury on healing of femoral diaphyseal fractures in 96 experimental rabbits including control groups showed that central nervous tissue damage enhances bone healing statistically significant and serum from rabbits with traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury has no osteogenic effect (p < 0.001).

We believe that the results of this study has shed some light on the regulatory mechanism of bone healing, and that the bone healing is controlled neuronally and centrally via hypothalamus-sympathetic nervous system pathway with altered and relative inhibition of nerve signaling of the sympathetic nervous system via neuromediators of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, or neurotrophins. This in turn, and, according to previous studies in the literature, may lead to mobilization of undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells and osteoprogenitor cells from distant bone marrow to peripheral circulation in abundance together with au- tocrine or paracrine secretion of plenty of growth factors and cytokines to cause homing, proliferation and differentiation of MSCs into osteoblasts at the fracture site to induce accelerated abundant healing of long bone fractures in patients with associated head or spinal cord injuries. Accordingly, we understand that sympatholytic medications as B-blockers and others, growth factors, cytokines, and undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) grafting may have therapeutic impact for treatment of fracture complications of delayed or non-union, and it should remain for further experimental research work.

Publications:

Khallaf FG, Growth Factors and Cytokines in Head Injury Patients with Concomitant Long Bone Fractures. J J Regener Med. 2015, 1(1): 003

Khallaf FG, Kehinde EO and Mostafa A, Bone Healing and Hormonal, Bioassay in Patients with Long Bone Fractures and Concomitant Spinal Cord Injury. SM J, Orthop. 2015;1(2):1009.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 58,600

Total budget: K.D. 88,300

The Efficacy of Using Computer Assisted Language Learning Software as a Major Component of a University EFL Program (2011-1110-02)

C. Daniel

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

The development of adequate English language skills to ensure student academic success presents a significant challenge to universities with large populations of EFL students. These universities spend large amounts of money to provide students with remedial English instruction in an attempt to develop the speaking, lis- 31 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects tening, reading and writing skills required to succeed in an English-language-based university program. Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) has faced on-going resistance within the language teaching community, primarily due to a lack of understanding and lack of relevant experience with such software. The goal of CALL is not to replace the teacher but to provide students with the required frequent repetition over an extended period of time to allow long-term learning to take place. This study examines the efficacy of using CALL software as a component of a university language EFL program through the use of a mixed methodology experimental-control group design. Results of this study showed that students using Dyn-Ed software to supplement their ESL studies had significant improvements in their post-test Accuplacer scores, as well as Listening Comprehension and Language Use Accuplacer ESL subtests scores. Also, students using the software showed significant improvements in CELF-Core scores and in the Concept and Directions, Recalling Sentences and Word Classes 2 subtests.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,085

Total budget: K.D. 9,085

The Legal Status of Petroleum Development Agreements in International Law and the Problem of Characterization: A Proposed Way Forward (2011-1112-01)

M. Al-Saeed

Ministry of Commerce & Industry

Abstract

State contracts involving foreign direct investment for the development of upstream petroleum resources have for a long time posed a particular legal challenge with reference to their legal and regulatory framework, especially in the event of a dispute. Notionally governed by principles of public international law, various other sources, including national administrative law, contract law, public law, and emerging rules of public international law all converge within the framework of petroleum development agreements to vie for supremacy in the prioritization of applicable norms as the substantive governing law. It is against this background that the procedural question of characterization plays a key role in determining questions of jurisdic- tion and choice of applicable law. This article sets out to critically analyze the characterization of upstream petroleum development agreements while critically inquiring into the relationship between national public and private law in the characterization process.

The research problem identified through the study concerns the ineffectiveness of the current legal regime to properly regulate commercial and legal disputes involving FDI in upstream petroleum development ventures. This is in view of the outdated nature of the norms and principles of the regime. The methodology employed by the authors is the ‘black letter law’ or interpretative approach (i.e. qualitative method). Quan- titative methods was were also considered by the authors but was deemed to be unsuitable for this type of study (i.e. legal research). Our main findings suggest the need for reform of the current (in our view out-dated) legal framework for dispute settlement in the upstream petroleum sector. The project team’s main recommendation takes the form of a proposed new conceptual framework (developed by the authors) for the characterization of upstream petroleum development agreements. A secondary but equally important recommendation is for the adoption of a ‘lex specialis’ legal regime which it is expected will be more suitable and appropriate to the upstream petroleum development agreements of the 21st century.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 4,800

Total budget: K.D. 4,800

Characterization of Point Defects in Heavily Doped Zn Te:Cu Thin Films Pre- pared by Magnetron Sputtering (2011-1413-01)

F. El Akkad

Kuwait University

Abstract

Copper-injected Zinc Telluride is an important material for application in the field of optoelectronic devices, especially for solar cells and light-emitting diodes. Formerly, studies were made on the effect of the preparation parameters on some of the physical properties of the thin films of Copper-injected Zinc Telluride prepared by radio frequency (RF) droplets. In the current project, we suggest performing a detailed study on the disadvantages of raster in this type of membranes using electrical and optical classification (Hall effects, optical absorption, luminescence). Scanning electron microscope (SEM) will be used to study the morpholo-

32 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects gy of the surfaces of the membranes, while the x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) will be used to determine the chemical composition of the membranes as well as to obtain information on the chemical bond of copper in the zinc telluride compound. The goal of the project is to provide data about the role of raster defects in determining the electrical and optical properties of thin films of zinc telluride injected with copper, thus contributing to the efforts of maximizing the benefits of these properties in photonic applications.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 95,300

Total budget: K.D. 95,300

Oral Microbiology Laboratory: New Prospects for Research on Oral Infection (2011-5502-01)

E. Honkala

Kuwait University

Abstract

The General Facility grant financed by Kuwait University and Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) for establishing an Oral Microbiology Laboratory in the Faculty of Dentistry has given an outstanding possibility for dental researchers to expand and deepen their research on dental/oral infections as well as on the relationship between dental and systemic diseases. The generous funding for laboratory equipment and consumables has established the basis for developing research activity in the field of oral microbiology. The grant also enabled recruiting five laboratory staff members educated in microbiology and molecular biology at MSc and PhD levels, which provides the necessary knowledge and skills required for the function of the laboratory. In addition, Faculty of Dentistry Kuwait University employed a Chief Technician (autumn 2013) and a Postdoc, an Assistant Professor and a Professor in Oral Microbiology (all three summer 2014), whose positions are in Oral Microbiology. The substantial investment of Kuwait University and KFAS has already resulted in encouraging progress.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 148, 000

Total budget: K.D. 250,600

Gulf Cooperation Council and Dispute Settlement: Assessing the Current Prac- tices and Developing Better Policy Responses (2012-1112-07)

M. Nuruzzaman

Gulf University for Science & Technology

Abstract

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is often credited as a successful sub-regional cooperation scheme, with an expanding role in the area of conflict mediation. Created in 1981 by the six Gulf Arab states as a collective response to intra and extra-regional threats and challenges, the GCC as a whole lacks any institutional structure or policy approach designed to mediate conflicts. Two prominent GCC member states – Qatar and Sau- di Arabia, and more specifically Qatar, have played critical roles to mediate conflicts and maintain regional peace and security. This paper investigates Qatari mediation roles to resolve the conflicts in Lebanon, Yemen and Sudan, examines the strategies and techniques Doha devised and applied to mediate the three conflicts and critically analyzes the causes of success and failure of Qatari mediations. Finally, the paper, based on Qatari experiences of dispute mediation, presents a series of policy recommendations to make the GCC a pro-active and effective dispute mediator.

Publication:

Nuruzzaman, Mohammed; Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Qatar and dispute mediations: a critical investigation; Contemporary Arab Affairs, 2015, Vol. 8, No. 4, 535–552

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,000

Total budget: K.D. 9,500

33 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

A National Study of Sun Behaviour and Skin Cancer in Kuwait (2012-1113-01)

E. Al-Hamdan

Fawzia Sultan Rehabilitation Institute

Abstract

There is a paucity of data on incidence and prevalence rates of skin cancer in Middle Eastern countries as well as trends in the attitudes and behaviors of Middle Eastern persons toward the sun and their understanding of skin cancer. Little is known about awareness of skin cancer and sun-protective behaviors within this community. We sought to define knowledge and behaviors on sun protection and skin cancer in Kuwait over the past 10 years. A 52-question survey was developed and distributed to 502 Kuwaiti resident patients through the Fawzia Sultan Rehabilitation Institute in Salmiya, Kuwait. Surveys were in English and Arabic as appropriate. Variables included patient demographics, sun behavior, sunscreen use, sun exposure, and sunscreen type.

The majority of survey participants were women (70%). The majority of responders was were under the age of 35 years (66%). The majority of patients had a total body skin exam performed by a dermatologist (53%) and visited the dermatologist for a specific skin issue (39%). Although majority of patients had minimal sun exposure during the day, the vast majority of patients wore sunblock on a daily basis. Further analysis is currently underway. Limitations of this study include survey dissemination in the medical practice setting.

Kuwaiti residents are participating in sun protection activities including sunscreen use and sun protection such as hats and sunglasses. Primary and secondary initiatives to prevent and diagnose skin cancers are not as critical in Kuwait as in other parts of the world.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,426

Total budget: K.D. 7,427

The Effect of Nutrition and Season of Breeding on Reproductive Performance of Naeemi Ewes (2012-1207-01)

S. Abbas, M. Razzaque, A. Elsaid, S. Albert, A. Gelen, F. Khalil, M. Al-Bahouh and A. Naseeb

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

This project was jointly supported by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, Kuwait Insti- tute for Scientific Research and Al-Ahmed United Company. The Naeemi breed is welladapted to the local harsh climate, nutritional stressors and endemic diseases, and they produce excellent quality lean meats. However, the reproductive efficiency of Naeemi ewes is low. The objectives of the studies were to investigate the effects of nutritional regimes and season of breeding on the reproductive performance of the Naeemi ewes and to recommend the optimum nutritional regime that has appropriate ratios of concentrate (C) to roughage (R). The study design involved the use of a total number of 81 sexually mature Naeemi ewes assigned to three rations and for breeding in two seasons. The rations used were of R:C as follows: 70:30, 80:20, and 60:40.

The reproductive performance of autumn-mated ewes was superior to summer-mated ewes. A ration of 70C:30R was found to have resulted in more lambs born per ewe than 80C:20R and 60C:40R rations. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) of post weaning lambs in both seasons ranged between 1.71 to 8.8. The FCR was best in lambs fed 80C:20R and exposed to autumn-ewe mating (2.76) followed by summer-bred lamb (3.07). The total volatile fatty acid production in the rumen fluid ranged between 130.97 ±32.86 and 202.79 ±43.91 mmol/l. Acetate was significantly higher in high R ration (60C:40R) than other rations, while propion- ate and butyrate were significantly higher (P≤0.05) for rations 80C:20R and 70C:30R.

The feasibility study indicated that the autumn season displayed on average, a much higher gross margin per ewe across all the three feeding rations. The finding showed that the ration 1 (70C:30R) fed to autumn-mated ewes performed better than the other two rations and summer-mated ewes. Whereas, the lambs obtained from autumn-mated ewes and fed with ration 2 (80C:20R) showed superior live weight gain and FCR to those from summer-mated ewes and fed with other ration.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 62,030

Total budget: K.D. 129,570

34 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

Advanced Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaics Research Program (2012-1508-01)

Y. Abdulraheem

Kuwait University and IMEC, Belgium

Abstract

All major activities and achievements of this collaboration program on the development of advanced crystalline silicon solar cells, were summarized in the final report covering the full duration of the three year project starting at 1/12/2012 and ending at 1/12/2015. This project has resulted, with the involvement of KU researchers, in the development of state of the art silicon based solar cells using three different technology alternatives, including (1) nPert based architectures (with a record efficiency of 22.5% on full size n-type Cz- Si 15.6x15.6 cm2, (2) IBC based architectures (with best recorded efficiencies of 23.2% on 2x2 cm2 cells and 22.8% on 15.6x15.6 cm2 cells) and (3) the novel thin silicon foil based solar cells (with best cell efficiencies of around 10% for 40 micrometer thin foil solar cells). In addition, there has been research work that aimed at bridging between PV cells and modules. There has also been work performed on energy yield modeling and prediction, which KU has been involved in during the third year of the project. Such activities have resulted in 11 papers published in reputable journals, 9 conference presentations and 1 patent. Additionally, there have been numerous exchange visits between IMEC and KU, numerous workshops, seminars and presentations given by both IMEC and KU scientists. A number of equipment and techniques were introduced to KU’s research infrastructure within the scope of this collaboration.

KFAS contribution: 598,000 K.D.

Total budget: 598,000 K.D.

Designation, Measurement and Localization of Knowledge Productivity in Pub- lic Institutions, Kuwait State (2013-1103-03)

K. Al-Hashash

Kuwait University

Abstract

In the framework of the intellectual transformation efforts to shift towards a competitive knowledge-based economy in pursuit of tangible and intangible returns, a variety of challenges emerge most important of which is a comprehensive mechanism to measure the qualitative and quantitative efficiency of the productivity knowledge resources, namely, “the human capital, the institutional capital, and the relationship capital” in public institutions in Kuwait. This project was designed to tackle this issue by identifying the productivity knowledge resources in public institutions as a prelude to measuring and developing them in an attempt to succeed in formulating institutional standards.

The project includes the following basic stages:

1. First phase: Identify productivity knowledge resources in the public institution. 2. Second phase: Analyze, measure, and evaluating productivity knowledge resources. 3. Third phase: Submit the final report, which would include recommendations to enhance productivity knowledge resources, means of developing such resources and the mechanism to reap the tangible and intangible returns. 4. Fourth phase: Endeavor to issue institutional standards in the management, operations, and development of productivity knowledge in the targeted public institutions. The objectives of the project are: 1- Support the development of institutional standards to build a system based on the Knowledge Economy applications. 2- Orient public institutions to become aware of the need to be in sync with the requirements of the knowledge-based economy. 3- Take note of the underlying size of productivity knowledge in public institutions in Kuwait. 4- Make public institutions aware of the central role of productivity knowledge and knowledge assets. 5- Encourage public institutions to execute practices related to the production, distribution, transfer, and use of productivity knowledge. 6- Encourage institution’s cadre to practice the culture of transferring and sharing productivity knowledge within and between public institutions, thus resulting in the development of functional and operational performance in these institutions.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 22,300

Total budget: K.D. 22,300

35 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

Study of E-Learning Readiness in Secondary Public Schools in Kuwait (2013- 1109-05)

F. Al-Dhafeeri

Kuwait University

Abstract

This project reports on an e-learning readiness study that was carried out to assess the organizational and individual factors of the two major stakeholder groups (teachers and students) in the secondary education institutions in the State of Kuwait in order to provide significant information to the policy makers and regulatory bodies for the development of successful e-learning strategies. Data were gathered with the use of the e-learning Readiness Survey from a purposive sample of 1,314 teachers and 1,307 students. This study looks specifically at some factors at the initial stage of an e-learning introduction that can have tremendous impact on the later stages of the process. The findings from the study were instrumental in implementing successful e-learning strategies for Kuwait and will also benefit e-learning initiatives in similar institutions in other Gulf Cooperation Council countries and beyond.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,175

Total budget: K.D. 7,175

Allies’ Use of Photographic Propaganda to Influence Arabs during World War II (2013-1112-01)

J. Hayes

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

The study of an Arabic newspaper that was published by the Allies during World War II shows how photographs and related captions played an important role in the Allies’ propaganda campaign to gain support against Nazis in the Middle East region. Quantitative content analysis and qualitative methodologies revealed that the use of photos and captions in 35 issues of Akhbar Al-Harb Wal-Alam (News of the War and the World) were coordinated and planned to turn the hearts and minds of mostly illiterate Arabs and Muslims to favor the Allies and in particular the British. While the newspaper purported to cover the war, in actuality, the content selected by the editors contained mostly cultural photographs that contributed to the Allies’ implementation of psychological warfare. The results of this study demonstrate how photographs and captions played an important role in the Allies’ propaganda machine, which, in this case, was intended to positively impress Arabs and Muslims in the Arabian Gulf and to tum turn them against the Axis.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,900

Total budget: K.D. 6,900

36 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

Face Recognition Using Thermal Imagery Characteristics (2013-1510-01)

N. Zaeri

Arab Open University

Abstract

Recent advancement of technologies in the field of biometrics and pattern recognition provides the opportunities for researchers and scientists to explore in depth the thermal human face image signals and to convert information into a meaningful knowledge through computational-based models, for the task of identification and recognition. Recently, researchers have investigated the use of thermal imagery for face recognition with good results. The advantage gained from working with the Infrared (IR) imagery type of sources is that the eye is not sensitive in this range, and illumination can be used in a more flexible way. The anatomical information which is imaged by infrared technology involves subsurface features believed to be unique to each person. Also, the IR face recognition, being not vulnerable to facial skin and expressions, can eliminate the drawbacks of face recognition in visible light.

In this project, we investigate this promising field of biometrics and study the thermal imagery for human face recognition as an innovative area for machine vision. We discuss the advancements and challenges of thermal face recognition. The physiology of human body and the face is studied, where we consider the biological and physical perspectives motivating this direction of research. Moreover, the report provides and describes the construction of a new thermal face image database, being one important goal of this project. Moreover, we devoted great effort to study major statistical patterns of thermal face images recognition, being the principal idea behind this project. This includes the study of thermal image histogram. Furthermore, we furnish a comprehensive mathematical background of moments invariants. Different moments invariants techniques are discussed. We conduct extensive experimental work by implementing these techniques and analyzing thoroughly the corresponding results. We further propose a new feature vector for thermal face recognition, and provide a deep discussion of the achieved results. The results will show that the new proposed solution is efficient and tackle the problem under study successfully. In this regard, we study the local statistical characteristics of a thermal image beside the whole image. Finally, we study the effect of low resolution on thermal image system performance and explore the potential of thermal face features in recognizing such low resolution images. The results reveal that this project establishes a new platform for a successful face recognition system using thermal characteristics with several successful outcomes.

Publications:

Naser Zaeri, Faris Baker and Rabie Dib; Thermal Face Recognition Using Moments Invariants; International Journal of Signal Processing Systems, Vol. 3, No. 2, pp. 94-99, December 2015.

Naser Zaeri; Moments Invariant for Expression Invariant Thermal Human Recognition; 2nd International Con- ference on Artificial Intelligence, Modelling and Simulation, 18-20 Nov. 2014.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 15,750

Total budget: K.D. 15,750

Symbolism and Inspiration in Modern Kuwaiti Literature: The Absurd Theater of Sulaiman Al-Hezami as a Case Study (P114-11AA-01)

S. Arkadan

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

This study is a scientific and critical study of the absurd theater of the creative Kuwaiti writer Sulaiman Al- Hezami. It aims to achieve a number of scientific, literal and aesthetic objectives preceded by the definition of the literature domain by its cultural -– literal art inside and outside Kuwait. It is proposed to achieve this through the provision of the writer and his methods of innovation and enquiring on how to treat the realities and challenges of his current anti-future surrounding environment and society. In addition, it is proposed to focus on the distinctive and innovative language of the writer and how it is used in the presentation of his vision of reality and challenges and the use of the solutions in various fields (cultural and social). The language that characterizes his writing, especially the theater of the absurd, makes the writer an important Arab patron.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 5,000

Total budget: K.D. 5,000

37 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

Cinema in Kuwait: A Critical Study of Development of Film Industry in Kuwait (P114-11AM-02)

J. Malekpour

Gulf University for Science & Technology

Abstract

This research is not about the history of cinema in Kuwait. This research attempts to present the rise and fall of Kuwaiti cinema in order to inspire the new generation and to motivate the youth to revive cinema in Kuwait and reclaim its once-pioneer status in the region. To this end, the research aims:

• To promote Kuwaiti films by introducing the foundation of cinema in Kuwait to the young generation, particularly students of cinema, theatre, and mass communication.

• To impress on the government to provide financial and organizational resources to create and support National Cinema enterprises in Kuwait.

• To help establish a Cinémathèque in Kuwait.

• To disseminate the idea of creating a National Film School in Kuwait.

• To provide resources for the archiving and preservation of old films for the next generations.

• To foster professional training in the arts (theatre, cinema, and communication).

• to To acquire skills of the industry and explore opportunities in the digital media of the 21st Century.

• To motivate other researchers to explore this area of cultural importance in order to establish a national cinema that portrays Kuwaiti national identity.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,200

Total budget: K.D. 7,200

Violence and Women in Kuwaiti Society: The Prevalence of Violence against Kuwaiti Women and its Relationship to their Mental and Physical Health (P114- 11OS-01)

H. Al-Kandari

Kuwait University

Abstract

The study aimed to identify critical barriers faced by battered wives and the solutions, according to the opinion of social workers and professionals, and battered and non-battered wives in Kuwait (n = 1315). It was found that one-third of wives had experienced physical violence from husbands and they reported a high prevalence of violence against wives, while professionals reported to some extent it spread in the community. All respondents, except the police officers, did not support physical violence against wives. Battered wives were found to be old (30 years or more), but all wives’ groups had a middle or highincome, higher education and did not have physical illnesses but suffered from mood disorder. All respondents, except for some professionals, supported the establishment of the center of battered wife and were satisfied, to some extent, with the services provided to them in the community. Wives believe that there are laws in the community to protect battered wives but to only some extent they are applied. The most important personal barriers that needed attention were the age of the couple, some personal characteristics of wives and the social class. The environmental barriers were the lack of support from family, lack of alternative housing, and the presence of children. The proposed solutions for battered wives were -– to resort to the sources of information, access to alternative housing, proof of damage in the hospital, to report the violence at the police station, choose a person to talk about the violence, and prayer. The most important future barriers that needed attention were the lack of information for battered wives, unawareness of the sense of physical violence and lack of support from family.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 4,600

Total budget: K.D. 4,600

38 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

Assessment of Iodine Status among Elementary School Children and Pregnant Women in Kuwait (P114-13MC-01) Q. Al Dowairy Ministry of Health Abstract Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD) continue to be an important public health problem in many countries and are the main cause of irreversible mental retardation. Assessing iodine status in populations is crucial to monitor, control and set the appropriate intervention strategies in situations of deficiency. However, no data is available on the iodine status in Kuwait. The aim of this study is to determine the iodine status among primary school children and pregnant women and the iodine content in salt used for food preparation at the household level. The study was carried out in a noninterventional and cross-sectional method. Urine samples were collected from the total sample of 2610 subjects recruited in the study. It included 2100 school children aged between 6 to 12 years from the 6 governorates of Kuwait and 510 healthy pregnant females aged 21 years and above from the maternal clinics of the primary health care centers. Urine iodine concentrations (UIC) were analyzed at the laboratories of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) to estimate the median UIC levels according to the criteria set by the World Health Organization (WHO)/ Iodine Global Net- work (IGN) 2007 Guidelines. A further 400 urine samples were collected from a sub sample of the original school children for validation purposes. The school children were also requested to provide 20 grams of the salt used at home. The iodine content in the salt samples was analyzed in the Food Laboratory, MOH. The results showed the median urinary iodine concentration for school-age children (n=1895) and pregnant women (n=422) to be 130.2 µg/l and 173.5 µg/l, respectively. These values fall under the “normal range” according to IGN/WHO. The median concentration of iodine in household salt was adequate at 35.7 ppm based on the Gulf Standards Organization (GSO) and IGN recommendations for the concentrations of iodine in salt. According to WHO, UNICEF and IGN classification, the UIC in 33.5% of school children and 46% of pregnant women are in the insufficient categories and 10% of school children and 8.5% of pregnant women are in the excessive category. Further studies are recommended urgently to identify the reasons for the excess and deficiency in both groups and to set the appropriate action plans for prevention and control. KFAS contribution: K.D. 48,750 Total budget: K.D. 48,750

Graduate Student Research Grant Stock Structure of Carcharhinus Limbatus along the Arabian Gulf: Implications for Research and Management (2011-6207-01) D. Almojil University of Cambridge, U.K. Abstract The black-tip shark Carcharhinus limbatus and spot-tail shark Cacharhinus sorrah are reef sharks that have been heavily fished in the Arabian seas since the 1980s. The increase in demand for shark fins has spread globally, targeting countries with weak enforcement of fisheries regulations such as the Middle East, and raising concerns about the status and conservation of local shark stocks. None of the regional fisheries authorities have kept any reliable historical records on shark catches and only one study has investigated the population structure of shark stocks along the Arabian region. In this study, I aim to help provide empirical data underpinning the conservation of these two over-exploited reef sharks along the Arabian coasts. I investigate their (1) historical trend in abundance using local ecological knowledge and (2) genetic population structure; and (3) mating system of C. sorrah. First, interviews with 200 fishermen at shark landing sites in Yemen, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain revealed a sharp decline (80%) in shark abundance since the late 1990s, as well as a decrease in shark body size. Sec- ond, the population structure of both species deviated from genetic homogeneity: C. sorrah formed three populations (Bahrain vs. Oman vs. Yemen-UAE), and C. limbatus also formed three populations ([Kuwait and Bahrain] vs. [UAE, Oman, Yemen and Pakistan] vs. [Saudi Arabia- Red Sea coast and South Africa- west Indian Ocean coast]). Third, pup genotyping showed that 1–5 males sired each litter of C. sorrah. Analyses of size, fecundity and parasite burden of 73 pregnant females showed that polyandry is associated with higher fecundity and higher within-litter genetic variance, suggesting that polyandry might allow females to hedge their bets genetically, given their limited mating opportunities. Finally, the number of males that fertilised a female was unrelated to her size, heterozygosity or parasite burden, suggesting that either males are unlikely to display female choice, or that post-copulatory female choice obscures any such association. KFAS contribution: K.D. 12,490

Total budget: K.D. 12,490

39 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

Hydrodynamics of Nearshore Processes and its Connectivity to Larval Disper- sal and Settlement (2012-6401-01)

M. Alnajjar

Stanford University and University of Georgia, U.S.A.

Abstract

Upwelling regions account for only 1% of the ocean surface, yet support 50% of the world’s fisheries. The physical dynamics at spatial and temporal scales along the shelf of the eastern boundary of California Cur- rent have not been understood well enough to develop a methodology for assessing model results that could be implemented and even adapted to other marine ecosystems. The focus of this project is to examine the hydrodynamics of shelf circulation patterns and nearshore physical processes through addressing the following questions: 1) What are the key physical mechanisms of cross-shelf transport and how do they vary with latitude, wind regime, and shelf width? 2) How do headlands and kelp forests affect cross-shelf transport and mixing? 3) How do boundary layers (benthic, Ekman, interfacial) interact with shoaling surface and internal waves? This work will be an important step in developing our ability to understand the dynamics of connectivity at a range of spatial and temporal scales, create a methodology for assessing model results that can also be adapted to other marine ecosystems, and improve our scientific understanding of how marine populations are connected. Long-term moorings, measuring current velocity, water column temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen were deployed along Baja California Peninsula within the California Current eastern boundary region. Intensive studies were carried out to examine the near-shore physical processes at Isla Natividad. The short-term intensive study was comprised of a high resolution spatial and temporal array of instruments measuring current velocity, surface gravity waves as well as near-bed turbulence characteristics, temperature, salinity, pressure, acoustic scattering, and dissolved oxygen. Statistical methods, spatial- and time-series analysis techniques were applied to the acquired data sets. The results will be compared against literature and other available information (e.g. satellite) prior to making any conclusions or recommendations.

KFAS contribution: US$ 38,500

Total budget: US$ 38,500

Mixing Induced by Winter Shamals in the Northwestern Arabian Gulf (2012- 6401-03) F. Al- Senafi

Texas A&M University, U.S.A.

Abstract

In the present study, we define a Shamal event as a WNW-N wind with an hourly average speed≥ 9.85 m/s blowing during at least 3 hours/day. These events have a significant impact on surface heat fluxes (short- wave, longwave, sensible and latent), momentum fluxes and as a result on vertical water column stratifica- tion, currents, and mixing intensities. We examined mixing processes and volume transport in response to Shamal events using observational data (time-series of temperature, dissolved oxygen, light intensity, and currents as well as surface meteorological data) collected over two periods (mid-January to mid-April 2013 and mid-October to mid- January 2014) in the vicinity of Qarooh Island, Kuwait. We further estimated turbulence parameters (Reynolds stresses, eddy diff TKE, and its dissipation rates) and compared them to two equation turbulence model simulations (k-kl and k-ε) during three Shamal events. The comparison of the measured and simulated turbulence parameters demonstrated satisfactory agreement between the two. Mixing in the bottom boundary layer was mainly controlled by two main forcings. The first forcing was the increase in mixing, resulting from the current shear frequency generated by tides. The second was by the Shamal induced convection.

Using time-series of the observational current structure, we show that winds parallel to the coast generated a subsurface volume transport that was perpendicular to the coast causing upwelling/downwelling. The extent of the upwelling/downwelling region was found to be confined in the region near the coast and did not extend to Qarooh Island (24 nm offshore). The thermal structure at Qarooh was mainly influenced by a warm tongue that extended across the Gulf from the SE.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 18,431

Total budget: K.D. 18,431

40 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Completed Projects

Corporate Governance Dilemma at Islamic Financial Institutions: The Effect of Conflict of Interest between PSIA Holders and Shareholders - Kuwait Embed- ded Case Studies (2013-6103-01)

S. Alhammadi

University of Reading, U.K.

Abstract

The aim of this research is to focus on a key issue in Islamic finance, i.e. the corporate governance (CG) of Islamic banks, which arises because of the way they raise deposits using profit-sharing contracts. More specifically, the research addresses some key CG issues relating to unrestricted investment account holders (UIAHs) as major stakeholders, comparing their status, as a type of equity investor, to that of shareholders. In fact, UIAHs do not have any governance rights (other than the right to withdraw their funds) and there is a lack of transparency in banks’ dealings with them. The research reviews the relationship of UIAHs with the Islamic banks (IBs), since UIAHs as savers or depositors are likely to have different risk-return preferences compared to shareholders, and in particular to be more risk-averse. This research shows that this lack of governance rights and transparency leads not only to unfair treatment in a significant number of cases, but also to ambiguity regarding their status and rights.

KFAS contribution: 20,000 K.D.

Total budget: 20,000 K.D.

Kuwaiti Female Labor Force Participation: Agency and Development Sustain- ability in Kuwait (P114-61IC-01)

S. Garrison

American University of Kuwait

Abstract

In spite of oil wealth, modernization and high female educational attainment, the International Labor Organi- zation cites female labor force participation in Kuwait as lower than other high-income countries, world aver- ages, many non-Arab Islamic countries, and some gulf countries such as Qatar and the UAE. These statistics suggest a lack of female participation and agency in development of Kuwaiti society.

As Kuwait and other gulf countries create economic strategies to move from dependency on natural resources to the development of skilled and innovative labor, the gap between high educational attainment and low labor force participation must be explored. With a grounded theory approach, this study uses statistical analysis and other secondary data, along with ethnographic methods of observation and in-depth interview with over 56 participants, to identify the social, economic, and political forces shaping the demand and supply of female labor in Kuwait.

This research argues that increasing a women’s freedom (capability + agency) to participate economically, as well as politically and socially, to increase their well-being for the sustainable development of their country. Therefore, research also considers Kuwaiti female agency in society for overall participation in sustainable development. In order to establish the fundamental information in this study, interviews and observations sought to understand the Kuwaiti woman’s experiences, as well as her definitions and perceptions of freedom.

Interestingly, research found two administrations in Kuwait record female LFP at least 18% higher than ILO estimates—a discovery backed up by interviews and observations. These numbers not only include the high number of non-Kuwaiti female workers but also Kuwaiti women working in public, private, and informal mar- kets. In addition, the number of Kuwaiti women entrepreneurs in home-based and other small businesses is increasing and becoming important to the economy, but is largely undocumented, suggesting female LFP in Kuwait may even be higher than administrations report. These findings suggest significantly greater female participation in the labor market than reported by international organizations, contradicting stereotypical views of disempowered Middle Eastern women, a view perhaps too often accepted without question by western research and society. Implications of research show potential for growth in the Kuwaiti female labor market within the private sector.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,628

Total budget: K.D. 7,628

41 Ongoing Projects

An Assessment of the Real Estate Market in the State of Kuwait and the Ex- pected Future Behavior (2005-1103-03)

A. Al-Othman

Union of Kuwaiti Banks, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

This study aimed to assess the real estate market in the State of Kuwait, and to outline an effective long run policy for real estate management that would help to establish the Kuwait real estate exchange market analogous to the Kuwait stock exchange market. Estimation of the demand and supply for real estate properties by segments and forecasting future demand and supply were also investigated and presented. In addition, the study tested for a bubble in the real estate market and its effects on the prices, as well as the possible economic impacts if a crash in real estate market occurs (a burst of the bubble). The study, moreover, investigated the financial linkages between real estate sector and local banks to develop a set of indicators and criteria’s that would improve banks’ real estate properties management and reduce the real estate loans default risks.

An additional outcome of the study was the real estate database management system that maintains up to the date real estate transactions from the Ministry of Justice (2000 to the present) and allows decision makers and planners at the Kuwait Banking Association to analyze the market.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 51,500

Total budget: K.D. 127,940

42 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

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. Behbehani

Kuwait University

Project Progress – Abstract

The studies on the mud crab Leptochryseus Kuwaitense have generated new scientific information about the biology and ecology of this endemic species. The density of the crab is estimated to be 10-12 crabs per m2. Density varies temporally being greater in the spring, early summer, and autumn with maximum value being in October and minimum value being in January. The overall male-female sex ratio is ratio of 1.4:1. Mor- phometric studies have shown that males are much larger than females.

The reproductive season is prolonged with high percentages of ovigerous females being present during December, January, February and March with another occurrence of high percentage of ovigerous females in August. Ovigerous females comprised 10.2% of the population. Fecundity is high reaching approximately 30,000 eggs in larger females. The smallest ovigerous female had a carapace width of 22.96 mm. The external features of the male gonopod development indicate that the onset of sexual maturity of the male is at 28mm carapace width. Electron Microscope images show that full gonopod maturity is reached when the male crab attains a carapace width of 31.57 mm.

Observations on the behavior of the crab have shown that they are active both during the day and night since their activity is more related to the tidal and the lunar cycles. An interesting finding is that, during the reproductive season, parents build a brooding chamber by covering one of the burrow entrances with mud. By this, the young will be protected from being washed away and from predators during high tides.

The electron microscope images of the mouth parts show that these parts lack teeth and feather-like in structure indicating that they are fit for the feeding mode of the crab which is scraping microscopic algae from the mud surface. The initial analyses of the digestive tract contents indicate that these crabs feed on a variety of microscopic algae including diatoms and cyanobacteria.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 34,450

Total budget: K.D. 34,450

European and US Policies towards Inward Investment from the Gulf in Strate- gic Industries (2010-1103-03)

M. Thatcher

London School of Economics and Political Science

Project Progress - Abstract

The research in this period has involved three major tasks. First, it has examined individual cases of Sover- eign Wealth Fund (SWF) investments in the UK and US in more detail. These show important variations both across the two countries and within them. The research has traced different processes in particular cases, and how and why some became politically controversial, whereas others met few policy obstacles. It has found that how SWF investment are presented or ‘framed’ is important, notably whether they are treated as an economic governance question or one of ‘national security’. If the former applies, then such investments are usually accepted, whereas if the latter applies, then obstacles arise. The research is examining whether there are systematic factors that account for which ‘frame’ applies or whether this is highly contingent and if so, contingent on which factors. Second, information about the legal and regulatory frameworks that apply in other countries, such as France, Germany and Italy, has been collected together with data about SWF pur- chases. These allow wider comparisons within Europe. Third, the first Policy Brief has been completed, which compares legal and regulatory frameworks in the EU, UK and US. It shows that the EU and UK have treated SWF equity investment as a question of economic governance, and especially free trade and movement of capital, and introduced few specific restrictions on SWF investments. Frequently they have often accepted and even welcomed SWF equity investment. The position has differed in the US, where the nature of the issue has been contested, between being one of free trade or national security issue. This has led to the US imposing much stronger legislative monitoring and restrictions.

KFAS contribution: £139,616

Total budget: £139,616

43 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Design and Development of E-Learning Software for Math and Science of all Intermediate Grades (2010-1110-03)

N. Marafi

Ministry of Education in collaboration with Regional Centre for the Development of Educational Software (ReDSOFT)

Project progress - Abstract:

The Regional Center for Development of Educational Software started the implementation phases approved by ReDSOFT as follows:

The basic components and reference documents were provided, including student’s textbooks and teacher’s guides, and other relevant documents. The team analyzed the science and mathematics curricula for grades (6, 7, 8 and 9). The overall goals referred to the level and the developmental characteristics of students of that level and the teaching goals of the topic areas the educational software proposed to deal with. All these components represent the overriding parameters of the scientific and educational requirements needed to design and develop the targeted software. Various brainstorming sessions, based on the parameters derived from the analysis phase, were conducted with the project team. In accordance with the technical and electronic content standards were adopted by ReDSOFT. An E-learning storyboard was designed for each educational activity, taking into consideration the nature of the content and in accordance with guidelines. Editing and proofreading was completed for all activities as well as reviewing audio files. Audio and video engineers at ReDSOF completed recording the dialogue, and sound effects for 42 units in mathematics and 22 units in science. All graphic design and background designs for all units of math and science, animation files for all units of math and science and programming of all educational activities were completed. An educational demo was produced, followed by the initial Beta Version submitted for revision and feedback prior to the production of the final version.

The main committee and the working groups reviewed and approved the analysis of science and mathematics curricula for grades (6, 7, 8 and 9), prepared by ReDSOFT. A workshop was conducted for the math subcommittee members to discuss several issues. Various meetings were held with the teams to discuss the completed E-learning storyboards and to reach consensus so that the achievement of the project objectives is well served. A number of educational activities (356) were undertaken in math (2627 educational slides) and 165 in science (479 slides). The number of interactive assessment modules in math and science were 42 and 22 respectively.

ReDSOFT also initiated the design and development of the following:

• Three applications entitled “Kuwait Science for intermediate school level” to access on tablets and smartphones that run on iOS and Android. The applications include all the activities of the e-content developed in science.

• Three applications entitled “Kuwait Math for intermediate school level” to access on tablets and smartphones that run on iOS and Android. The applications include all the activities of the e-content developed in science.

• Re-program and upload the e-content of all developed math and science activities on the Kuwait E-Learn- ing Portal (Seraj).

KFAS contribution: K.D. 170,000

Total budget: K.D. 807,300

The Role of Social Service in Achieving the Demands of Social Development in the State of Kuwait (2011-1112-04)

A. Alwadi

Association of Social Workers

Project Progress – Abstract

The study aims at the following:

1. Knowing the role of social service in fulfilling the demands of social development in the State of Kuwait.

2. Effectuating the activities of varied social service as part of developmental services.

44 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

3. Supporting the social service establishments and its developmental role in the different sectors of the society.

4. The optimal use of the human energy for societal development.

5. Employing the role of effective social service in improving the capabilities of the society while seeking to address the demands for social development.

6. Supporting the social worker in directing their knowledge framework, training and updating them to raise their professionalism.

The current study adopted the analytical, descriptive method. A sample was randomly selected from the public and private sectors. A questionnaire, which addressed project goals, was compiled after discussions and interviews with concerned social workers and officials, families and youth in order to keep up with changing social scenarios and developments. Psychometric calculation was undertaken to test the stability and validity and applied on a random sample, consisting of approximately 1225 males and females, distributed across the public and private sectors. It consisted of 200 individuals, 500 social workers, 500 youth working for governmental and private social organizations, as well as 25 Kuwaiti families who required services from the public and private sectors. So the problem of the current study focused on the role of the social service in the institutions of the State of Kuwait, in fulfilling the demands of social development and the effect of the same on the Kuwaiti citizen. The study also presents the relevant methods for training of social workers for effective services. Several questions are raised pertaining to the role of social service in fulfilling the demands of social development in the State of Kuwait institutions. The study works out a theoretical framework to address the goals and adopted scientific method in defining related terms and procedures. The project surveys diverse topics of societal concerns ranging from standard of living, to health, economy, culture, education, housing, work, social security, etc.

The proposed model of training programs is expected to enhance the role of a social worker in the society, effectively resulting overall social development. The study records in detail the procedural steps implemented in the field study, qualitative analysis, social development plan and the results of the field study.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 48,720

Total budget: K.D. 48,720

Use of Estimated Average Glucose and Adipokines as Screening Tests for Cat- egories of Glucose Intolerance. The Kuwait Adipokines and Derived Average Glucose Study (KADAGS) (2011-1302-01)

N. Abdella

Kuwait University

Project Progress- Abstract

Mainly as a result of rising prevalence of obesity, Type 2 diabetes mellitus has emerged as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among the adult Kuwaiti population. In a previous study on a relatively young adult Kuwaiti population below 50 years of age, the frequency of type 2 diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance and impaired fasting glucose was found to be 14.8% using the 1997 American Diabetes Association diagnostic criteria. Based on the World Health Organization and similar reports the projected estimates for prevalence of Type 2 diabetes by the year 2010 is expected to show a striking tendency to higher prevalence of the disease in Kuwait and other Gulf Co-operation Countries. Recently, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) included HbAlc testing as part of the diagnostic criteria for diagnosis of diabetes in non-pregnant individuals without haemoglobin variants. The ADA, European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD), International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Labo- ratory Medicine (IFCC) have also recommended that Ale-derived Average Glucose (ADAG) or estimated average glucose (eAG) should be reported as measures of long term glycemic control so that HbAlc could be expressed in the same units as day-to-day glucose monitoring units used by patients. Therefore, it is of particular interest to evaluate the practical utility of using these new diagnostic modalities on the main categories of glucose intolerance, study the associations with the risk factors for glucose intolerance in a Kuwaiti population that has a relatively high prevalence of haemoglobin variants.

In this report, we present progressive data from 660 subjects that have been recruited for the study. Results currently obtained from these subjects further strengthen the preliminary results, confirming HbAlc and eAG as better markers for the diagnosis of diabetes (area under the ROC curve for HbA le and eAG = 0.962, compared to 0.951 for fasting glucose). The study further explores some of the determinants of glucose intolerance in Kuwait such as SHBG and adiponectin, which were related to categories of glucose intolerance. One of the novel findings presented in the present report include a proposition that estimation of adiponectin could play different roles in screening, diagnosis and follow-up of diabetes. The report also highlights some difficulties encountered especially in relation to staff recruitment and procurement of reagents eg. 45 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects fructosamine which are essential to meeting some of the objectives of the study. Future plans include recruitment of more study subjects and performance of more assays for analytes we proposed to study. We conclude that the project is on course to meet the proposed objectives.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 116,959

Total budget: K.D. 116, 959

Studies on the Role of a Novel Nervous System-Induced Immune System-Re- leased Activating Agent (ISRAA) in Mouse and Human Brain Cell Cultures (2011-1302-02)

A. Mousa

Kuwait University in collaboration with Arabic Gulf University

Project Progress- Abstract:

The Immune System Released Activating Agent (ISRAA) is an immune mediator activated as a result of a nerve stimulus initiated by the immune challenge. We have previously shown that 50pg ISRAA has a significant effect on mouse embryonic brain cell proliferation in vitro. The aim of this study was to investigate ISRAA’s possible signaling pathway during the process of cell proliferation of mouse embryonic brain cell. A standard procedure for primary culture preparation was employed from embryonic day 15 (E15) Balb/c mice embryonic brains. After 7 days in culture, the cultures were divided into four groups; control, inhibitor group (3mM aspirin), ISRAA group, the inhibitor + ISRAA group (all for 5, 10, 15, 30, 60 min). Proliferative activity was determined by immunofluorescence staining with Ki-67 antibodies and examined by confocal microscopy. Activation of NF- κB pathway was detected by immunofluorescence staining with NF-κ B antibodies and electrophoretic mobility shift assay using luminometer machine. Results showed significantly higher proliferation when cells were treated with 50pg ISRAA compared to untreated cells (p<0.001). ISRAA had the ability to induce cellular proliferation in a time-dependent manner with the highest induction after 60 min exposure (p<0.001). In addition, ISRAA significantly induces activation of NF-κB signaling pathway with the highest activation rate after 60 min exposure (p<0.001). Furthermore, ISRAA’s ability to induce cellular proliferation and NF-κB activation in inhibitor + ISRAA groups were significantly higher than other groups (p<0.001). Thus, ISRAA may play a role in the development of brain cells via its proliferative effects. ISRAA is a promising protein that has a possible significant therapeutic role in immune-compromised situations.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 71,100

Total budget: K.D. 71,100

Genetic Study of Early Onset Breast Cancer in Kuwait (2011-1302-06)

F. Al-Mullah

Kuwait University

Project Progress - Abstract

Worldwide, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Susceptibility is thought to be polygenic and the risk tends to increase in women with positive family history of breast cancer.

Breast cancer in Kuwait seems to have a stronger tendency for familial clustering. Furthermore, many women are diagnosed with breast cancer at a relatively early age, so that the mean age of diagnosis in Kuwait is almost eleven years younger than in other comparable populations. Both of these factors suggest that at least one gene of major effect is operating to produce familial clustering of breast cancer, early-onset of breast cancer, or perhaps both. Current diagnostic and unpublished data do not support a major founder effect for the BRCA1 /BRCA2 genes, especially with the fact that most breast cancers diagnosed in Kuwait and the region are estrogen receptor positive. We show evidence of success in term of technological implementation and identification of pathogenic mutations in familial breast cancer.

Publications:

Al-Temaimi RA1, Jacob S, Al-Ali W, Thomas DA, Al-Mulla F. Reduced FHIT expression is associated with mismatch repair deficient and high CpG island methylator phenotype colorectal cancer. J Histochem Cyto- chem. 2013 Sep;61(9):627-38. doi: 10.1369/0022155413497367. Epub 2013 Jun 24.

Yang X, Al-Bustan S, Feng Q, Guo W, Ma Z, Marafie M, Jacob S, Al-Mulla F, Xu S. The influence of admixture and consanguinity on population genetic diversity in Middle East. J Hum Genet. 2014 Nov;59(11):615-22. doi: 46 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

10.1038/jhg.2014.81. Epub 2014 Sep 25.

Thompson BA, Spurdle AB, Plazzer JP, Greenblatt MS, Akagi K, Al-Mulla F, Bapat B, Bernstein I, Capellá G, den Dunnen JT, du Sart D, Fabre A, Farrell MP, Farrington. Application of a 5-tiered scheme for standardized classification of 2,360 unique mismatch repair gene variants in the InSiGHT locus-specific database. Nat Genet. 2014 Feb;46(2):107-15. doi: 10.1038/ng.2854. Epub 2013 Dec 22.

Powell AG1, Ferguson J, Al-Mulla F, Orange C, McMillan DC, Horgan PG, Edwards J, Going JJ. The relationship between genetic profiling, clinicopathological factors and survival in patients undergoing surgery for node-negative colorectal cancer: 10-year follow-up. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 2013 Dec;139(12):2013-20. doi: 10.1007/s00432-013-1521-2. Epub 2013 Sep 26.

Al-Mulla F1, Marafie M, Zea Tan T, Paul Thiery J. Raf kinase inhibitory protein role in the molecular subtyping of breast cancer. J Cell Biochem. 2014 Mar;115(3):488-97. doi: 10.1002/jcb.24682.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 168,200

Total budget: K.D. 168,200

Production Management of Solution Gas Drive Partially Naturally Fractured Reservoirs (2011-1504-02)

F. Qasem and I. Nashawi

Kuwait University

Project Progress- Abstract:

Flow behavior of naturally fractured reservoirs is quite different from that of conventional reservoirs. Most of the techniques used to interpret the recovery performance of naturally fractured reservoirs (NFR) utilize analytical models based on simplified assumptions. One of such assumptions is uniform distribution of fractures in the reservoir, which never holds true for most of the NFR. Naturally fractured reservoirs al- ways have fracture flow networks which are more or less irregular, discontinuous or clustered. A naturally fractured reservoir with such spatially non-uniform distribution of fractures can be called partially naturally fractured reservoir (PNFR). Interconnectivity, length of penetration and intensity of fractures are the important attributes, which determine their contributions in the overall fluid flow. Fracture intensity, identified as the key factor in characterizing the PNFR, is believed to be directly related to the reservoir productivity. Important mechanisms that affect the recovery efficiency of PNFR are expansion of fluids and rock, gas-oil gravity drainage, molecular diffusion and re-infiltration of drained oil at the down structure matrix blocks. In PNFR, the fractures may not be all open to vertical flow, thus providing a partial capillary continuity only. Therefore, shape and the effect of secondary gas-cap formed in the PNFR may be quite different than that in the conventional reservoirs. In view of all this, PNFR provide considerable challenge in studying their recovery performance by natural depletion or gas injection. The first objective of this proposed research is to improve the understanding in the area of PNFR. The second objective is to study the recovery performance of PNFR under solution gas drive and gas injection for the purpose of pressure maintenance. Specifically, in case of solution gas drive (primary depletion), the effect of fracture intensity and liquid withdrawal rate on the recovery performance will be investigated. Whereas, in the case of gas injection (pressure maintenance) the effect of fracture intensity and gas injection rate on the recovery performance will be investigated. The proposed research is very important for Kuwait and other Gulf countries because most of the giant oil/gas reservoirs are partially fractured. This study is expected to set forth and describe conditions that would help in better management and exploitation of these hydrocarbon resources.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 21,000

Total budget: K.D. 21,000

Replacement of the Old General Facility Equipment to Serve Research in Spec- troscopy and Sorptometry (2011-5508-01)

K. Al-Qattan

Kuwait University

Project Progress - Abstract

The objective of the project is to make available the various spectroscopy techniques to researchers, and graduate students in Kuwait University to pursue research and graduate studies. The facility can also be used by other users outside the university as consultation work for nominal charges. 47 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

The project envisaged replacement of the following old General Facility equipment in the Faculty of Science with state-of-the-art equipment:

1. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.

2. UV-Vis NIR Spectrophotometer.

3. Ionchromatograph Mass spectrometer.

4. Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC).

5. Inductively Coupled Plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES).

KFAS contribution: K.D. 190, 000

Total budget: K.D. 235,000

The Role of Insurance Policies in Limiting the Traffic Conjunctions Resulting from Minor Accidents (2012-1112-08)

M. AlRamadhan

Kuwait Insurance Federation

Project Progress - Abstract

Traffic accidents in Kuwait are considered one of the reasons for traffic conjunctions. The growth rate of traffic accidents in Kuwait is increasing with time and an average reached 9.5% annually for the period between 2000 and 2011; the growth rate of vehicles exceeded, which reached 7.5% annually for the same period. Most of the traffic accidents were considered as minor accidents (damages only on vehicles involved in the accidents and no injuries and deaths). This study aims to find a mechanism or a way to deal with minor accidents in order to simplify the process to cut down the economic and social costs. This study will also suggest a fair tariff for compulsory insurance and for finding ways to reduce the number of accidents and help solve the traffic conjunctions.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 59,320

Total budget: K.D. 59,320

Epidemiological Studies on Cryptosporidiosis and Rotavirus Infection in Live- stock in the State of Kuwait (2012-1207-04)

Q. Habeeb

Public Authority for Applied Education & Training

Project Progress - Abstract:

Cryptosporidiosis and rotavirus infection are significant causes of diarrhea in animals and they are zoonotic threatening public health. As little information is available about these diseases in Kuwait, a project was designed to inform about their epidemiology and transmission. During the period extending from Octo- ber 22, 2014 to March 22, 2015, different animal farms, including cattle (n=14), sheep (n=23), goats (n=15), camels (n=16) and horses (n=20) were visited weekly to collect data to identify the risk factors of infection with Cryptosporidium and rotavirus as well as to collect fecal samples for laboratory analysis to detect Cryptosporidium oocysts by sugar floatation and Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques. The antigens of Cryp- tosporidium and rotavirus, with other 2 entropathogens (E. coli 99 and corona virus) were detected by im- munochromatographic technique (IC; rapid test). Portions of fecal samples were stored at - 20ºC for further immunologic and molecular studies.

Out of 87 Cryptosporidium-positive samples, 85 were identified by IC indicating that the immunologic technique was more sensitive than microscopic methods. Cryptosporidium was the most prevalent entropathogen and recorded at infection rates of 19.9, 26.0, 6.5, and 4.45 in cattle, sheep, goats and camels, respectively. E. coli 99 was the second most common entropathogen and concurrently recorded in 77.5% of Crypto- sporidium-infected cattle and sheep. Rotavirus ranked the third among entropathogens and detected in 5.3 and 1.8% of bovine and ovine fecal samples. Corona virus was relatively uncommon; its prevalence was 0.4 and 2.8% in cattle and sheep, respectively. Eimeria spp. was found in 20.3% of diarrheic sheep and 25% of diarrheic goats.

48 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

In cattle and small ruminants, which were more frequently infected, 61.9% (146/236) of diarrheic animals were newborns; particularly calves and lambs at 1-4 weeks of age had the highest infection rates 88.2 and 76.6%, respectively. The maternity environment and calf rearing environment represented the high risk factors of the exposure of calves to Cryptosporidium and rotavirus infections on dairy farms. Similarly, these risk factors were observed to be associated with Cryptosporidium and Eimeria infections on small ruminant farms, in addition to the mangling of different age groups in the same shed.It is concluded that the detection of Cryptosporidium infection on 86.7 and 73.9% of cattle and small ruminant farms, respectively indicates that this pathogen is endemic in Kuwait. Cryptosporidiosis is a primary cause of diarrhea in dairy calves, lambs and kids, and concurrently occurs with other entropathogens e.g. E.coli 99, rotavirus and corona virus which leads to aggravation of clinical signs.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 63,743.750

Total budget: K.D. 71,753.750

Identification and Characterization of Post-Translational Modifications in the Raf Kinase Inhibitory Protein: Implication for a Molecular-Based Therapy of Breast Cancer (2012-1302-01)

M. Bitar and F. Al-Mulla

Kuwait University

Project Progress – Abstract

The four-fold aims of the project are: (i) to identify novel phosphorylated residues in RKIP and kinases that are responsible for their phosphorylation; (ii) to examine how RKIP function is modulated by its phosphorylation status; (iii) to determine the biological consequences of RKIP expression and phosphorylation by cor- relating expression and phosphorylation with breast cancer patient survival; and (iv) to determine the role of RKIP or phospho-RKIP in wound healing in the context of diabetes. Studies resulted in the generation of monoclonal rabbit antibodies specific for RKIP when phosphorylated at Thr-42. To assess the biological consequences of RKIP phosphorylation on Thr-42, we stably expressed wild type or its T42A mutated RKIP in cancer cell line 4T1 by retroviral infection. To investigate the effect of altered RKIP expression on breast cancer progression and metastasis, we turned to two near-isogenic mouse mammary tumor cell lines, 168FARN and 4T1, deriving from a single mammary tumor that arose spontaneously in a Balb/c mouse.

RKIP is a proven breast cancer metastasis suppressor gene. Since high MMP13 expressions correlate with poor breast cancer patients’ survival, it is possible that RKIP suppress breast cancer metastasis by regulating MMP13 expression. As a first step to determine whether MMP13 plays a role in RKIP-mediated repression of breast cancer metastasis, we interrogated publicly available DNA microarray expression data sets, in search of a correlation between RKIP and MMP13 expression in breast cancer samples. Two data sets were identified with large number of breast cancer patients exhibiting long-term survival data. We observed a strong negative correlation between RKIP and MMP13 expression. Since low RKIP expression in primary tumors was a strong positive predictive factor for prostate and breast cancer recurrences, we examined the prognostic value of different MMP13/RKIP expression combinations in breast cancers in which the expression of MMP13, RKIP and clinical outcome are available in published microarray expression data set. We found that high MMP13 and low RKIP were associated more significantly with poor survival within 5 years of primary diagnosis than either high MMP13 or low RKIP expression alone. Overall, our current data may advance the notion that RKIP and MMP13 can be used as a possible future therapeutic target in the treatment of breast cancer.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 157,561

Total budget: K.D. 157,561

An Association Study of Genetic and Environmental Factors Affecting Multiple Sclerosis Incidence in Kuwait (2012-1302-02)

R. Al-Temaimi

Kuwait University

Project progress – Abstract:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune neurodegenerative disorder that affects approximately 2.5 million individuals worldwide with a 2:1 female: male ratio at a typical age of onset between 20-40 years of age. MS is considered a debilitating life altering disease with an unpredictable clinical course. MS patients suffer from sudden attacks with a wide spectrum of motor, sensory, cognitive, and psychological dysfunc- 49 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects tions. MS etiologic evidence reported so far is inconsistent and does not fully explain the pathogenesis of MS. Several genetic and environmental factors have been shown to associate with MS susceptibility exhibiting regional/ethnic patterns. Kuwait has become a high-risk area for MS, its prevalence has increased from 4.4 in 1990 to 85 cases per 100,000 individuals in 2014. The aim of our study was to screen Kuwaiti MS patients for possible environmental and genetic factors associated with the incidence of MS. We collected 148 MS patients and 68 healthy control volunteers to be included in the study that involved a questionnaire for environmental factors assessment and a blood sample for genetic and other immunochemical confirm- atory assays. We found circulating plasma vitamin D levels to be low in both healthy and MS patients. MS patients’ dietary habits were also sub-optimal when compared to healthy controls suggesting inappropriate nutritional guidance towards maintaining a healthy life style. Dietary deficits included poor fruit and vegeta- bles consumption (p=0.01), poor fish consumption (p<0.001),and poor milk consumption (p=0.014), all of which are valuable sources for vitamin D, folic acid, and Omega-3 fatty acids which are crucial for a healthy nervous and immune systems. Other factors associated with MS in other MS populations such as smoking, sibling order and allergy did not associate with MS risk among Kuwaitis. Another finding is the association of neuronal diseases incidence in families of MS patients when compared to healthy controls (p = 0.006) drove us to investigate the MS genetic risk factors in Kuwaiti MS patients. We have successfully exome sequenced 41 MS patients and 25 healthy controls that are undergoing the process of analysis. A preliminary finding is the lack of association between MS incidence in Kuwait and the most common genetic factor for MS risk, the HLA-DRB1*1501 haplotype. This exciting finding suggests there are other genetic MS risk factors, possibly specific to Kuwait’s genetic background that predispose to MS incidence when the environmental conditions are met. We hope to finalize the genetic analysis once more. MS samples are exome sequenced to fully interrogate all possible genetic factors associated with MS incidence in Kuwait. Our goal is to establish specific MS screening tests, and emphasize preventive, palliative, and treatment options specific for Kuwait to better serve its MS patients.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 147,000

Total budget: K.D 147,000

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Model Neurodegenerative Diseases: a Tool for Drugs Development (2012-1302-03) H. Yaseen

Kuwait University

Project Progress- Abstract:

The process of drug development requires extensive research and testing to ensure safety and effectiveness of any potential drug. These pre-clinical tests are performed usually on animal models and human cell lines. While access to certain human tissues, including neural tissue is very limited, modeling certain targeted diseases using animal models may not be efficient due to complex polygenetic nature of the disease and physiological and molecular differences between humans and the animals used for testing. Such limitations might account for unpredicted dangerous drug reactions in humans and prolong the overall drug development process. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) might provide a potential tool to model neurodegenerative diseases and provide in-vitro model of such diseases that can be used to study the disease and in pre-clinical stages of drug development process. In our project we aim to generate iPS from patients and then differen- tiate it towards the cell type affected by the disease in order to establish a disease model in vitro. We aim to convert iPS generated from diabetic patients into Beta cells.

The reprogramming, differentiation and disease modeling will be assessed and examined at mRNA and protein levels. It is important to develop proper differentiation protocols which will turn the iPS into the targeted tissue. The ability to establish efficient disease models using Ips cells generated from patients somatic cells would provide a potential research tool that can be used to study the molecular pathology of such diseases and can be used as well in drugs development and toxicology studies.

This study will be the first of its kind in the area and will aid in pioneering the stem cell field in Kuwait.

Publications:

Hamad Ali, Majda K. Al-Yatama, Mohamed Abu-Farha, Kazem Behbehani, and Ashraf Al Madhoun. Multi-Lin- eage Differentiation of Human Umbilical Cord Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Mediates Changes in the Expression Profile of Stemness Markers. PLoS One. 2015; 10(4): Published online 7 Apr 2015.

Hamad Ali, Nadhim Bayatti, Susan Lindsay, Ali A. Dashti and Fahd Al-Mulla. Directed differentiation of umbilical cord blood stem cells into cortical GABAergic neurons. Acta Neurobiol Exp 2013, 73: 250-259.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 55,837

Total budget: K.D. 55,837

50 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Establishment of National Unrelated Hematopoietic Stem Cell and Cord Blood Donor Registry (2012-1302-04)

S. Al-Shemmari

Kuwait University

Project progress - Abstract

Many patients with malignant and non-malignant blood diseases can only be cured with hematopoietic stem cell therapy. However, the majority of the Arab patients who need stem cell transplantation cannot benefit from the international stem cell registries because of the lack of tissue compatibility and genetic differences. The purpose of this project is to establish a stem cell registry by recruiting enough donor pool to meet the national demand. During the first year of the project, validation of laboratory processes and procedures for the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) typing by high resolution techniques (allelic level) were performed. To further confirm the quality of the HLA typing, external validation proficiency testing was established in collaboration with UCLA DNA exchange for HLA typing. The results of the external proficiency samples were successful for the year 2013- 2014. During the first year, donor recruitment was established. HLA typing for patients and related donors were performed to establish the haplotype segregations among the family members. Furthermore, to assess the will- ingness of the Kuwaiti nationals to participate in the national registries, a cross-sectional study targeted Kuwait University staff and students to assess knowledge, attitude and intention about stem cells donation program. A total of 603 respondents participated in this study. The questionnaire covers four domains: socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude and intentions of the participant. The initial findings of this study were presented in the 10th International Donor Registry and World Marrow Donor Association (WMDA) in London, UK. The next phase of the project is to establish the HLA haplotype frequency estimation and genetic distance for the Kuwaiti population, in addition, to the national stem cell registry modeling and match rate projection.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 513,198

Total budget: K.D. 513,198

Associations of Telomere Length and Telomerase Activity in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction (2012-1302-05)

O. Mojiminiyi

Kuwait University

Project Progress - Abstract

In the preliminary first annual report, we present the results of the studies performed to establish the relatively new techniques related to determination of telomere length. These techniques were hitherto not available in Kuwait. We also present some of the preliminary data from patients recruited so far. Future plans include recruitment of more study subjects, determination of telomere lengths in patients and controls, performance of more assays for analytes we proposed to study and statistics that show some of the associations of telomere length and telomerase. Finally we make the case for the employment of a post-doctoral fellow (now introduced by Kuwait University). We conclude that the project is on course to meet the proposed objectives.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 42,748

Total budget: K.D. 42,748

Concomitant Anti-EGFR Antibody (Cetuximab) plus Hyper-Fractionated Ra- diotherapy Versus Chemotherapy plus Hyper-Fractionated Radiotherapy in Advanced Non-Metastatic Head & Neck Cancer (Random Controlled Study). (2012-1302-06)

K. Al-Saleh

Ministry of Health

Project Progress- Abstract:

This is a randomized study to compare the use of cetuximab versus platinum based chemotherapy with con- current hyperfractionated radiation therapy. Acute and late morbidity, locoregional control and disease free survival were set as primary end points, while overall survival was set as secondary end point.

The study was launched and patients’ enrollment was started on 1st of November 2014. Till reporting preparation date (1st of May 2016), 21 patients were enrolled after fulfilling eligibility criteria and conforming their diagnosis and stage. The median age of these 21 patients are 46 years. 17 patients are male. Most of these 51 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects patients gave a history of cigarette smoking (59%), 6 patients have their primaries in oropharynx, 5 in larynx, 6 in hypopharynx and 4 has tumor in oral cavity. Regarding stage of disease; 65% has T4 lesions while 29% has T3 lesions. Nodal spread was (N0-1) in 9 patients and (N2-3) in 12 patients. Overall staging showed the majority to have stage IV a disease (65%). Regarding study arms, 11 patients were randomly allocated in Arm A (platinum-based) while 10 were in Arm B (cetuximab).

It is impractical to start analyzing the outcome with a very short follow up period and some of them still under treatment. Also, comparison of toxicity between both treatment arms will not be of value in view of number enrolled till now.

Our plan is to continue recruiting patients in the study, as initially proposed, in view of reasonable recruitment rate. The data extracted from the patients will be formalized in a more professional database set using Microsoft Access®, to unify data entry method and facilitate next year analysis of outcomes. The statistician will be more involved when the data become more mature with possible interim analysis of toxicity at least.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 35,750

Total budget: K.D. 49,750

National Sickle Cell Disease Registry (2012-1302-07)

K. Adekile

Ministry of Health

Project Progress- Abstract:

The registry is for patients (adult and pediatric) seen in all the five government hospitals: Mubarak Al-Kabeer, Amiri, Adan, Sabah, Jahra and Farwaniya. The NBK Children’s Hospital in the Sabah area is also part of the registry. Data are obtained via questionnaires and also by the review of patients’ records to document the age, Hb genotype, clinical presentation, complications and treatment given. In the first year of this funded project, 78 patients were added. Bringing the total number of patients in the registry to 334. Most patients (86.5%) were seen in Mubarak and Amiri Hospitals and there were equal number of males and females. Most of them (55.1 %) were SS, 42.8% Sß and 2.1 % SD. Their ages ranged from 1 to 73, with a mean of 21.l ± 15.4 years, while the HbF ranged from l to 55, with a mean of 20.6 ± 9.9%. Most patients (65.6%) had mild phenotype (0 - 1 pain crisis/year) and the most common complication was gallstones followed by avascular necrosis of the femoral head. These complications were more common in the older age group (> 16 years) and also among śß0thal patients. While the registration of patients will continue in the second year of the project, emphasis will be on molecular studies, especially the influence of polymorphisms in candidate genes on some of the common complications e.g. avascular bone necrosis and gallstones.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 56,669

Total budget: K.D. 86,717

Sumudu Characterization of the Maxwell Eigen Value Problem (2012-1413-02)

J. Madouh, A. Al-Kandari and F. Belgacem

Public Authority for Applied Education and Training

Project Progress - Abstract

In this project, we investigate the distinction ensued by adding an eigenvalue Magnetically related forcing term, λm(z, t)H, on the dynamics of a planar, transverse electromagnetic (TEMP) wave propagating in the direction z in lossy media with constant permittivity ∈, permeability µ, and conductivityσ > 0.

In the presence of the magnetic eigenvalue forcing term, the TEMP is then best described by the Modified Maxwell’s equations, or Maxwell Eigenvalue Problem,

(1)

(1) When the source term, m(z, t) = 0, various forms of solutions for the electric and magnetic fields have been determined by various authors, using different techniques. Recently, many aspects of Maxwell TEMP Connoted problem were resolved by using the Sumudu transform technique (see for instance, Belgacem, Husein-Belgacem, Rathinavel-Belgacem). The Sumudu transform technique is not only robust due to its various desirable attributes such as scale and units preserving properties, elaborated upon in the body of the project, but also it turns out to be user-friendly. In this instance, we use the Sumudu to variationally

52 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

characterize the principal eigenvalue of Maxwell’s eigen problem, as was done for the Indefinite Ecologi- cal problem by Belgacem and Belgacem-Cosner.

The function, G(u), being the Sumudu of f(t), is obtained by integartion against the kernel, e-t, as follows,

(2)

As an operator, the domain of the Sumudu extends over the set of functions,

(3)

For instance, we have, for a ∈ (1-/a, 1/a). The Sumudu Operator exhibits very direct convolution, properties, namely, when M(u), and N(u), are the respective Sumudi for the functions, f(t) and g(t), with convolution,(f * g)(t), then, the Sumudu of the convolution of the functions, f(t), and g(t), is given by, S[(f * g)(t)] = uM(u)N(u). In particular, the Sumudu of the anti-derivative, (f * 1), of the function, f(t), is given by, uM(u). The Sumudu of the n’th derivative, f(n) (t), of f(t), is,

For, n = 1, & 2, we have,

Setting, , some of the main results obtained via the Sumudu method are,

Theorem 1 [Husein-Belgacem]: For m(z, t) = 0, the transient electric field,E(z, t), in the TEMP problem as described in equation (1), is given by,

Theorem 2 [Rathinavel-Belgacem]: For m(z, t) = 0, the transient magnetic field,H(z, t), in the TEMP problem as described in equation (1), is given by,

In this project we extend theorems 1 & 2 to cases where the source term is acting positively (a positive source) and uniformly, m(x, t) = m > 0, and distinguish them from cases where the sourcing term, m = f(x, t) > 0, is positive but varying in space and/or time. We give a meaning and a nomenclature to the various cases, and variationally characterize the eigenvalue in each case. Also, there will be a distinction between various cases of boundary conditions (Drichlet, Neumann and Mixed Robin).

KFAS contribution: K.D. 4,300

Total budget: K.D. 4,300

Development of Carbon Supported Hydrodemetallization Catalyst for Kuwaiti Heavy Crude Oil (2012-1504-01)

M. Singh, R. Navvamani, H. Al Sheeha, S. Al- Sairafi, R. Boureisly, F. Al Humaidan.

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress – Abstract

The main task undertaken during these six months was establishing a methodology to prepare support with different carbon content and optimize the support treatment conditions. The task has been completed with catalyst preparation and their characterization, along with other (Tasks 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7) activities of the project. The laboratory work for Tasks 2 (Support Preparation) and 5 (Supports and Catalysts Character- ization) was completed and preliminary results are reported. Therefore, apart from the other activities of the project, the major work carried out during this period was the selection of support and supported catalysts, based on their characterization of the solid materials. The distillation of crude oil or residue feedstock preparation has been completed. Based on the characterization results, a correlation between the support composition and the textural properties was obtained.

CoMo/FeMo catalysts supported on meso/macroporous carbon-alumina have been designed for hydrotreat- ing of heavy oil residue. Support extrudates were prepared from pseudoboehmite and activated carbon with subsequent CoMo/FeMo catalysts. Supports, and fresh and impregnated catalysts were characterized by me- 53 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects chanical properties (side crushing tests, attrition, and bulk density), N2 sorption and pycnometric techniques, mercury porosimetry, and different methods of elemental analyses. The bimodal meso/macroporous catalyst has been successfully achieved, and their results and discussions are provided in this progress report.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 73,243

Total budget: K.D. 147,943

Development of an Arabic Therapeutic Communication Applications for Indi- viduals with Dysphasia and Delayed Language Development (2012-1510-01)

N. Al-Ghurair, H. Qasem, G. Al-Naqi, A. Al-Qattan, A. Al-Qallaf, L. Al-Kulaib, E. Rashid

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress- Abstract:

In the 2nd progress report, a detailed description of the accomplishments of Task 1 and Task 2 is provided. These tasks resulted in acquiring the scientific content and the design of the suggested applications.

One of the major obstacles faced was the lack of a standard list of Arabic phrases used by children during the early age as well as a standard list of Arabic phrases for aphasia cases. Consultants were employed to fulfill these gaps. These lists are included in the 2nd progress report. In order to ensure the reliability of the scientific content, the Arabic word bank was reviewed by the experts in the Kuwait Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Hospital (KPMRH) and Salem Al Ali Speech Hospital (SASH). A discussion of choosing the optimal platform for developing the applications is also included where the team will combine the latest technology and the available resources with the clients. The team is expecting the workflow of the project to progress as planned.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 17,100

Total budget: K.D. 91,340

Innovative Metal Vapor Laser Spectroscopy with Energy Applications (2012-1513-01)

Y. Makdisi

Kuwait University

Project Progress - Abstract

We shall search the fundamental behavior of hot and dense metal vapor mixtures in new experimental environments, using femtosecond and nanosecond lasers, and various spectroscopic tools and techniques. New complex experimental approaches pertinent to the use of ultrafast (femtosecond) lasers in hot and dense Ba, Sr, and Ca metal vapor mixtures will be especially emphasized. Experiments will be carried out in heat-pipe ovens with and without bias voltage using ultrafast, nanosecond and cw lasers. These will enable inventive use of the optimal coherent control in proposed experiments with dense metal vapor mixtures with fullerenes (Ba-C60, Sr-C60). Multiphoton ionization experiments of the above special alkaline earth mixtures with focused femtosecond laser will be applied (later in the project) in order to observe high harmonic generation (HHG). One of the goals is to propose new spectroscopic techniques for plasma diagnostics in metal vapor mixtures using high harmonic generation. Noble gases (He, Ne, Ar, Kr, and Xe) and fullerenes (C60) will be introduced into heat-pipe ovens in several different ways. The structure of the homogeneous and inhomogeneous parts of the heat pipe ovens will be analyzed using appropriate mixing of metal vapors and gases. Based on our results, we shall develop novel devices (special hot-heat-pipe ovens) for optimal ionization process in energy converters. The final goal will be the optimization of the energy conversion process in order to develop the complete theoretical model and a comprehensive converting device for efficient energy transformation.

Publications:

Makdisi, Y.A, Kokaj, J.A, Afrousheh, K.A, Mathew, J.A, Nair, R. A, Pichler, G.A. Femtosecond laser enhanced current in a thermionic diode with barium vapor. Journal of Quantitative Spectroscopy and Radiative Trans- fer 11/2014; 148:221–227.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 278,546

Total budget: K.D. 278,546 54 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

A Mobile Unit for Detection of Breast Cancer (2012-5302-01)

K. Al-Saleh

Cancer Aware Nation (CAN)

Project Progress - Abstract

The National Campaign for Awareness of Cancer (CAN) aims at raising the public awareness of members of the community towards cancer and encouraging the public to adopt a healthy lifestyle that prevents them from developing the disease. The Campaign also adopts a number of promising developmental projects that will help in reducing the incidence of cancer in Kuwait.

Breast cancer is considered as the most widespread type of cancer, both in Kuwait and elsewhere. If detected early, it is the most completely curable type of cancer, hence the importance of its early detection. On one hand, it raises the percentage of successful treatments; on the other hand, it lowers the economic burden on the State and on the public and private establishments, since cancer treatment requires a long time and takes a great deal of effort and money if not detected early.

Therefore the Organizing Committee of the National Awareness Campaign against Cancer (CAN) worked our project CAN MOVE which aims at setting up, preparing and running mobile units for early detection of breast cancer. These mobile units will be distributed to the Governorates of Kuwait to provide this service to the largest sector of the Kuwaiti community. This is modeled on similar projects, which were implemented in a number of advanced countries.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 82,800

Total budget: K.D. 82,800

The Standardization of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - Fifth Edition (WISC-V) (2013-1109-04)

F. Hadi, S. Mourad

Kuwait Society for the Advancement of Arab Children

Project Progress - Abstract:

The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - Fifth Edition (WISC-V) is an individually administered, comprehensive clinical instrument for assessing the intelligence of children aged 6:00 - 16:11yrs. This revision provides subtest and composite scores that represent intellectual functioning in specific cognitive domains (e.g. verbal comprehension, working memory), as well as a composite score that represents general intellectual ability (e.g. Full Scale IQ). A number of other subtests, process and index scores intended for additional clinical uses are included. The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - Third Edition was standardized in Kuwait by the Department of Psychological Services at the Ministry of Education in 2009. This version is still used in Kuwait, despite its scores and norms problems. During our task to standardize WISC-IV, a new version of the scale (WISC-V) had emerged. The new version consists of 21 subscales (13 verbal subscales, and 8 performance subscales). Ten of these subscales are from old version, and 11 are new. The WISC-V provides psychologists with diagnosis and clinical features. Therefore, researchers of this project decided to switch from version four to version five for all the features of the new one. At this point, researchers are reviewing the English version of WISC-V to determine the suitability of each item of subscales to Kuwaiti culture. The first pilot testing of 400 children aged from 6:00- 16:11yrs from the six educational regions will take place in September 2015, in order to determine psychometric properties and orders of items for each subscales. Twelve psychologists will be administering scales in the first pilot testing. Second pilot testing of the revised scales will be in March 2016. The scales will be administered on a sample of 600 children to determine the validity, reliability, item analyses, baselines for each age group, and scoring procedures. Standardization procedures will take place in October 2016 on a sample of 2200 children from six educational regions, age ranged from 6 -16:11 years. This step will estimate norms and usage procedures of the scales for the purpose of diagnosis and clinical uses.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 94,586

Total budget: K.D. 117,386

55 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

The Emergence of Flexibility: Towards A Comprehensive Theory for Transfer- ring Experience in Context-Dependent Learning (2013-1109-06)

O. Hamid and M. Al-Akaidi

Arab Open University

Project Progress-Abstract:

In the early days of artificial intelligence (Al), the term “behavioral flexibility” was frequently used to denote the ability of an inexperienced agent to acquire experience through learning in a more or less stationary environment. Today, as artificial systems are becoming increasingly inspired by their biological (natural) counterparts and research is considering also changing environments; “behavioral flexibility” connotes the ability of an already experienced agent to exploit experience, so as to navigate a non-stationary environment.

This project aims at deploying principles of natural intelligence in the design of intelligent E-learning and tutoring systems. Specifically, we investigate how contextual information helps transfer experience within environments, where uncertainty is the only certainty. In such environments, initially irrelevant environmental cues may well, over time, prove vitally important for flexible performance. For example, an intelligent E-learning system would be more effective, if it bases the interactive learning of its users on their individual differences. Such differences could be due to cultural, environmental, or genetic characteristics. Embedding user’s individuality enhances the performance of the system, for it lends the system more flexibility.

To this end, we conduct an interdisciplinary research that combines both cognitive and engineering approaches. Specifically, an in-house developed associative learning paradigm requires human subjects to first learn and then memorize sensorimotor associations in the face of unbeknown multiple context reversals. Ex- perience is transferred, implicitly, via the temporal sequence of the occurring events. Building on the analysis of experimental results, we then deploy artificial neural networks together with the theory of reinforcement learning to devise and test computational models that serve the design of flexible artificial systems on the basis of natural intelligent behavior.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,500

Total budget: K.D. 9,500

Development of Antimicrobial Nano packaging Films for Poultry Industry (2013-1206-01)

J. Ahmed

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress- Abstract:

Due to the recent food-borne microbial outbreaks and public concern about food safety, the subject of food packaging has become more challenging. To develop nanotechnology-based antimicrobial films that are intended for food packaging applications is one of the emerging research activities in the fields of both applied microbiology and packaging. The combination of antimicrobials and nanotechnologies such as nanocomposites can synergistically lead to bio-plastic formulations with balanced properties and functionalities for their implementation in packaging applications. Furthermore, the transformation of conventional packaging to biodegradable environment-friendly packaging has been appreciated by consumers. The aim of this project is to develop nanotechnology-based antimicrobial packaging with the desirable thermo-mechanical and barrier properties along with strong antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella typhimurium and Campylobacter jejuni.

This study is involved in developing antimicrobial nanopackaging using a combination of natural antimicrobial agents (e.g., clove, garlic, and cinnamon oil), and/or metal-nanoparticles (e.g., zinc ox ide, silver-copper alloy-nano powder) which are embedded into low-density polyethylene (LDPE)/polylactide (PLA) through melt extrusion and solvent casting methods. The morphology of the films has been visualized by various microscopic studies. The thermal properties were measured by differential scanning calorimetry.

The project duration is 36 mo. and during the first twelve months, task 1 and task 6 were completed. Task 2 was substituted by task 6 due to delay in receiving the extruder. The preparation of biodegradable PLA- based nanopackaging and studies on morphological and thermal properties have been completed.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 77,300

Total budget: K.D. 139,660

56 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Composition of Steroids and other Lipid Fractions and Proteins. The Anti-In- flammatory, Anti-Cancer Activities in Preparations from the Skin of the Arabi- an Gulf Catfish (Arius Bilineatus, Valenciennes) (2013-1207-1A)

J. Al-Hassan, P. Yang

Kuwait University in collaboration with MD Anderson Cancer Center, U.S.A.

Project Progress- Abstract:

Lipids and proteins were isolated from preparations from the skin of the catfish. The lipids were fractionated into neutral lipids, glycolipids and phospholipids. The neutral lipids were fractionated further into their components with emphasis on their steroidal contents and furan fatty acids and characterized spectroscop- ically. The lipids and proteins were sent to our co-investigators at MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC) in Houston, Texas, USA and to The University of Toronto (UT), Canada for the planned analysis and studies. At MDACC the potent anti-Inflammatory action was established on inflamed rat ear. The anti-Inflammatory mechanism is being investigated. The anti-cancer effect of the lipid fractions was studied to establish the lipid fraction responsible for activity. Fraction 4 was the most active as anti-Inflammatory and anti-cancer. The anti-cancer activity is being studied on lung, liver and pancreatic cancer cell lines. The proteins did not show much activity in all these tests. At UT, experiments on the effects of lipid fractions on wound healing, platelet aggregation and calcium release, and finally the anti cancer activity of lipid fractions on leukemia cell line were being pursued. Positive results were established in all these results with lipid fraction No. 5. The component responsible for these activities is being investigated. The mechanisms of action that led to these positive results are being studied.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 96,407

Total budget: K.D. 544,654

Composition of Steroids and other Lipid Fractions and Proteins. The Anti In- flammatory, Anti-Cancer Activities in Preparations from the Skin of the Arabi- an Gulf Catfish (Arius Bilineatus, Valenciennes). (2013-1207-1C)

J. Al-Hassan, W. Renno

Kuwait University, in collaboration with MD Anderson Cancer Center, U.S.A.

Project Progress- Abstract:

After the ordered equipment and reagents were received, the research group immediately started on the experimentation. In the meanwhile, the research boat was being made ready for sample collection at sea. The soluble fraction from the catfish skin preparations was extracted and the desired protein concentration in the extract was made. Pilot studies on the effect of the extract on crushed sciatic nerve of rats were performed. The animals with crushed sciatic nerve were divided into two groups. The first group of animals were treated with the extract subcutaneously on the site of dissection, while the second group was injected inter-peritoneally. Two more groups were added to the experiment. One was Naïve and the second was Sham. Preliminary results indicated that after four weeks, the Sham group of rats showed deterioration of the nerve fibers in the sciatic nerve and the neurons in the spinal cord while both of the treated groups with the extract showed good recovery of both the nerve fibers and the neurons compared to Naive. The animals also showed good leg movements. Interpretation of the results is in progress. Actual experiments are being planned to explore the effects of the extract on the crushed sciatic nerve.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 306,147

Total budget: K.D. 544,654

57 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Molecular Diagnosis for the Rapid Detection of Bovine Tuberculosis in the State of Kuwait (2013-1207-02)

S. Al-Mouqatea, M. Al-Khamis, B. Akbar, A. Ali, H. Al-Aqeel, A. Bin-Heji, and M. Razzaque

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress- Abstract:

Mycobacterium bovis is the causative agent of bovine tuberculosis (bTB), a zoonotic disease with an overall negative impact on the livestock industry. Though cattle are the principal hosts and reservoirs of M.bovis, infection can be acquired by and spread to humans and other animals, including sheep, goats, camels, horses, deer, dogs, cats, foxes, and oryxes. bTB has been reported in Kuwait, and the affected cattle were condemned by the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources. Because of the adverse social and economic impact that the disease imposes on livestock and the people of Kuwait, the development of surveillance, diagnostic, and control programs is needed to detect new cases and eradicate the disease. Technical cooperation has been established with PAAFR and the livestock producers of Kuwait for meeting the project’s objectives. The duration of the project is for a period of 30 mo, and the annual report covers the ongoing status of the project for the period of the first 12 mo. During this period, Task 1, mobilization, was completed. Essential supplies and equipment needed for the project were procured. The proposed work under Tasks 2 to 6 has begun. In Task 2, the status Bovine Tuberculosis has been assessed, sampling strategy has been designed, and the molecular techniques for bTB detection have been established. In Task 3, primers, biotinylated capture oligonucleotides, and probes were designed, and real-time PCR protocol has been performed and is in the process of optimization.

In Task 4, alternative invivo diagnostic techniques (iEnzyme Linked lmmuno Sorbent Assay [iELISA] and lnterferon-g [IFN-g] for bTB diagnosis have been optimized. In Task 5, the statistical analysis of collected data was plotted using R map tools software package. Future work will be focused on testing more cattle in the four areas of the livestock farms in the State of Kuwait (Al-Abdi Ii, Al-Wafra, Al-Kabid, and Al Sulaibiya).

KFAS contribution: K.D. 73,750

Total budget: K.D. 141,840

Magnesium Treatment of Inflammation in Disorders of Glucose Homeostasis (2013-1302-01)

N. Zghoul

Dasman Diabetes Institute, in collaboration with George Washington University, USA

Project Progress - Abstract

The anti-inflammatory effects of oral magnesium (Mg) supplementation in patients with diabetes and low blood Mg levels have been studied with increased interest in recent years. In most diabetes patients, where low serum magnesium levels occur, the important depletion of cellular levels is usually not measured. Blood magnesium levels only represent less than one percent of total body magnesium, whereas cellular deficiency of Mg is a more reliable parameter to assess repletion of this essential mineral for correlation with indices of inflammation.

In this study, we are investigating both blood and cell (oral epithelial, buccal) magnesium levels before and after treatment with Magnesium tablets. The cellular magnesium level determination is being conducted in collaboration with George Washington University (USA). Both serum and buccal cell Mg levels will be correlated with changes in diabetes and inflammatory parameters before and after treatment.

At the Clinical Research Department at DDI we have concluded a three month open label clinical trial assessing the efficacy of a 3 month treatment with oral Mg tablets (~recommended dietary allowance, 336 mg of Mg lactate) in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients. Forty-seven patients meeting the inclusion criteria completed the trial and blood, urine and buccal cell swab samples were collected throughout the trial period at predetermined time points.

Currently, we are conducting the in vitro laboratory assays on the collected blood and urine samples to study the effect of Magnesium supplementation on diabetes and inflammatory markers at DDI. Further, we have shipped the buccal cell swab samples to our collaborators for cellular Magnesium determination in collaboration with George Washington University (US). Once our data analysis has been concluded, we shall correlate the results to assess which parameter correlates best with efficacy in lowering inflammation indicators in Type 2 Diabetes patients.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 76,856

Total budget: K.D. 76,856 58 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Cytokine Production Patterns in Osteoporosis (2013-1302-02)

F. Azizieh

Gulf University of Technology and Science

Project Progress - Abstract:

Osteoporosis is a significant public health issue. Considering its extent, predicted growth rates, and growing economic impact on health care, osteoporosis is set to rise alarmingly worldwide. A variety of compounds, including hormones and nutrients, are known to modulate bone remodeling. In addition to these well-characterized substances, the immune system plays a role in this process through the involvement of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines play important roles in the regulation of normal bone remodeling, as well as in bone resorption and formation during pathologic bone remodeling.

Recent studies have suggested that bone loss in women at post-menopausal period is mediated, at least in part, by increased production of certain cytokines. It is reported that a similar situation characterizes inflammatory arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis, is an example of rheumatic diseases in which inflammation is associated with skeletal pathology.

This project is designed to compare cytokine profiles in postmenopausal osteoporotic women, patients with rheumatoid arthritis and normal healthy individuals. We proposed to compare the production patterns of selected osteoclastogenesis stimulator cytokines TNF-a., IL-6, IL-12, IL-1 7 and osteoclastogenesis inhibitor cytokines IL-4, IL- I 0, IL-13, IL-18, IFN-y and the inflammatory cytokines IL-20 and IL-23 produced by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). PBMC from these subjects are stimulated with the mitogen phytohe- magglutinin and the levels of cytokines are being estimated in culture supernatants by ELISA. Serum levels of the chemokine mediators RANK-Land OPG in the serum of the subjects are also to be estimated by ELISA. The results are expected to shed light on possible links between cytokine profiles and bone health.

Research along the lines described in this proposal will contribute to better understanding of the etiopa- thology underlying osteoporosis, and may subsequently contribute to the development of strategies for reversing systemic bone loss associated with the disease, by targeting both the bone and the inflammatory process.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 24,800

Total budget: K.D. 24,800

A Comparative Clinical Experiment between Speech Anxiety and Speech Restructuring Treatment Approaches on Kuwaiti Adults who Stutter (2013-1302-07)

M. Al-Ameer

Fawzia Sultan Rehabilitation Institute

Project Progress - Abstract

Stuttering is considered one of the most complicated speech disorders, as it affects both speech fluency and social behaviors. All existing experiments about stuttering treatment took place in the western countries, while such studies do not exist in Kuwait nor the Middle East.

The aim of the current pilot was to (1) test the effect of speech anxiety treatment (SAT) on reducing speech-anxiety and on reducing disfluency in Kuwaiti people who stutter (PWS); (2) test the effect of speech restructuring (SR) on reducing disfluency, and on reducing speech-anxiety in Kuwaiti PWS. The outcome of this pilot allows further investigation to (3) test the effect of presenting both treatments, but with different sequence, on reducing speech-anxiety and disfluency in Kuwaiti PWS.

The current study included 10 participants (4 females and 6 males) aged between 18 and 39 years and live in Kuwait.

Overall, all participants were able to reduce their stuttering and speech anxiety through either SR or SAT. Hence, both types of therapies can reduce both stuttering and related anxiety.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 1,575

Total budget: K.D. 1,575

59 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

A Mixed Methods Approach to Understanding the Perspectives of Obesity in Kuwait (2013-1302-08)

E. Hamdan

Fawzia Sultan Rehabilitation Institute

Project Progress - Abstract:

Obesity is highly prevalent in Kuwait; therefore, Kuwaitis are at tremendous risks of developing diabetes, various cancers, cardiovascular diseases and chronic degenerative disorders. Although there has been a torrent of research on obesity in Kuwait and the Middle East in general, the majority of this research focuses on the epidemiological trends associated with obesity, rather than the perceptions of obesity, causation, consequences and effective interventions.

We are conducting a mixed methods study to understand individuals’ beliefs about ideal body size and their views about the underlying social, psychological, environmental and lifestyle risk factors of obesity. Re- spondents’ perceptions on the social, psychological and health consequences of obesity, as well as opinions about the facilitators and barriers of weight management and effective interventions are being explored.

Data collection involves the utilization of a chain-referral mechanism (snow-ball sampling) to recruit participants. Participants go through in-depth, 60 minute, semi-structured interview and are presented with the Stunkard’s figure rating scale to assess body size preferences. All interviews are transcribed (typed up verbatim) and analyzed using the method of Grounded Theory. A series of ANOVAs and t-tests will be used to compare differences in mean Stunkard’s figure rating scores between underweight and overweight men and women.

This research will allow us to ascertain the general perceptions of obesity in Kuwait, while also exploring the beliefs on the risk factors and effects of obesity. Additionally, it allows us to explore the effectiveness of current and future intervention practices for obesity in Kuwait. We believe that the results from the study will be a first step to understanding obesity in Kuwait, ultimately contributing to Kuwait’s goal to mitigate obesity and its associated health risk factors. This research will also help with the development of an obesity treatment clinic, specifically designed for overweight and obese individuals, that is founded on the pillars of participant-driven research.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 5,000

Total budget: K.D. 5,000

Graphene-Based Nanoribbons Polymers for Photovoltaic and Optoelectronic Applications (2013-1506-01)

B. Alameddine

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Project Progress- Abstract

This project focuses on the synthesis of graphene based polymers and copolymers for applications in optoelectronic. We have successfully synthesized many pentaphene based molecules bearing electroactive groups at their edges.

In the past six months, several breakthroughs have been achieved by making six new graphene-based target compounds, whose optoelectronic properties will be thoroughly investigated by Professor Christine Lus- combe from the University of Washington in Seattle who is renowned for her research in the field of photovoltaics and who has received these samples in mid-November 2015. In addition, we have started the synthesis of the pentaphene-based copolymers whose analysis and investigation is in progress. A manuscript is under preparation and will be submitted soon for publication in an international peer-reviewed journal in order to reveal our new findings to the scientific community. Another publication will be also prepared and submitted after completing the synthesis, characterization, and full study of the optoelectronic properties of the polymers.

This project allows us to realize this research project, and therefore, improves our research capabilities by establishing a research group in organic materials chemistry at Gulf University for Science and Technology. We could also establish fruitful collaborations with academics from national and international institutions.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 57,000

Total budget: K.D. 103,400

60 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Review Design of Concrete Structures: Evaluating Learning Effectiveness (P114-15EV-01)

M.Jaeger

Australian College of Kuwait

Project Progress- Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyze learning effectiveness when students are in training to review the design of concrete structures. Two different course delivery methods for vocational engineering students are compared. The first delivery method begins with a traditional instructional approach followed by an active learning approach. The second delivery method utilizes the same approaches but in reversed order. The difference in learning effectiveness of the two approaches is analyzed, based on a semi-quasi pre-test/ post-test experiment design with an experimental group (first hands-on, then theory) and a control group (first theory, then hands-on). Based on 30 test questions and difference scores between pre-test and two post-tests, as well as statistical significance and effect size, the learning effectiveness is determined.

It was found that the learning effectiveness for both experimental and control group was higher during the hands-on approaches. When comparing the second post-test with the first post-test, the experimental group had only 2 positive difference scores, whereas the control group had 13 positive difference scores.

The findings indicate that students need sufficient initial theoretical background in order to benefit from a hands-on approach.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 4,370

Total budget: K.D. 6,970

Modelling and Design of Nano-Structures: Efficient Integral Equation Methods for Two-Dimensional Nanoplasmonics (P114-16SM-02)

H. Kurkcu

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Project Progress- Abstract:

Nanoplasmonics forms a major part of the field of nanophotonics, which explores how electromagnetic fields can be confined over dimensions in the order of or smaller than the wavelength. Initiated in 1902 by R.W. Wood, with the discovery of grating anomalies, this phenomenon has attracted significant attention over the last century. Current applications relate, for instance, to bio-sensing wherein the binding of analyte molecules to a properly treated metallic arrangement can provide a very sensitive means to detect their presence through a shift in the resonant (plasmonic) frequency. The potential for further impact is even greater as the confinement of light in sub-wavelength regions can clearly provide significant gains in a wide variety of areas (e.g. telecommunications, microscopy). We believe that state-of-the-art computational thinking can be used to dramatically improve the design process for nanostructured optical materials. The Principal Investigator (PI) proposes to develop new fast and accurate simulators that can be used for real-time design. The use of such can only proceed when fabrication processes have advanced to the level of allowing for very fine control of metallic patterns. This, in turn, justifies the use of accurate schemes that, as the PI expects, will replace current practices which still rely largely on old-fashioned and inaccurate techniques (such as the ever-popular “FDTD”). Although alternatives to these have been pursued (finite elements, integral equation methods), each one of these is limited in accuracy and/or efficiency, rendering them of limited use in virtual design. On the other hand, the schemes we propose are based on high-order (spectral) treatment of the (integral-equation formulation) mathematical models and they can thus deliver highly accurate solutions in significantly lowering computational times. We feel that careful structuring of the necessary computations is critical to achieving this aim.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 5,000

Total budget: K.D. 5,000

61 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

An Adaptive Population-Based Simplex Method for Heterogeneous Optimiza- tion (P114-18SM-02)

M. Omran

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Project Progress- Abstract:

This study proposes a new population-based simplex method for continuous function optimization. The proposed method, called Adaptive Population-based Simplex (APS), uses a population from which different simplexes are selected. In addition, a local search is performed using a hyper-sphere generated around the best individual in a simplex. APS is a tuning-free approach, it is easy to code and easy to understand. APS is compared with five state-of-the-art approaches on 23 functions where five of them are quasi-real-world problems. The experimental results show that APS generally performs better than the other methods on the test functions. In addition, a scalability study has been conducted and the results show that APS can work well with relatively high-dimensional problems.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 2,560

Total budget: K.D. 5,760

Assessing the Impact of Western-Style Higher Education in Kuwait on Intercul- tural Effectiveness and Business Communication Patterns (P114-19TT-01)

F. Al-Sumait

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Project Progress- Abstract:

As part of their national development plans, the Gulf Cooperation Council countries have focused heavily in recent years on enhancing higher education in the region. A common strategy has been to increase the number of Western-affiliated universities, such as those found in Kuwait. However, due to their relatively recent entrance into the region, little is currently known about the various impacts these universities have on both educational outcomes and cultural practices. The present project, therefore, assesses the key influences of “Western-style” education on the intercultural attitudes and cross-cultural communication patterns exhibited by Kuwaiti undergraduate and graduate students. Specifically, the study attempts to identify the style and development of students’ intercultural effectiveness, as well as their cross-cultural communication patterns, which are increasingly relevant in today’s business and educational environments. The study is divided into three phases, each with interrelated goals and data-collection instruments designed to provide a triangulated measurement of the study’s central concepts. Phase one analyzes written communication patterns to identify important features of local business communication. Of particular interest are differences in the patterns of “context” employed by varied participants. Phase two assesses the “intercultural effectiveness” of Kuwaiti business students by means of an internationally validated instrument. This survey will be administered at both the initial and final stages of university education to provide evidence for a given university’s effectiveness in creating global-ready business graduates. Phase three provides insight into the question of “why” specific patterns emerge from the previous two phases through the use of in-depth, semi-structured interviews. These interviews enable participants to reflect on their own cultural behaviors and intercultural aptitudes, as well as their perception of these traits in others. The combined data cover both deductive and inductive approaches, quantitative and qualitative methodologies, and branch differing disciplines and national interests.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 12,620

Total budget: K.D. 15,620

62 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

MAK - Modernist Architecture in Kuwait: A Systematic Inventory for the Pres- ervation of Kuwait Modern Heritage (1955-1985) (P114-55EA-01)

R. Fabbri

Dar Al Athar Al Islamiyyah

Project Progress- Abstract:

For about twenty years, from the 60s to the early 80s, Kuwait catalyzed the attention of major international designers working with local firms and local authorities, and leaving on the ground very important examples of late modem architecture. As Kuwait gained independence and autonomy, the necessity of a new landscape to represent the fresh founded state grew high.

This extraordinary presence of valuable designers (Dar al Handasah, Hassan Fathy, G. Sultan, S. Makiya, S.O.M., T.A.C., A. Roth, P.L. Nervi and many others) operating almost in the same period on a single city was certainly a gift for Kuwait but at the same time, like all the transformations that happened fast, it boosted the criticism of superimposing a different culture (and taste) over the local traditions. The result is that, in general, nowadays, there is a lack of knowledge and big misconceptions about these architectures.

The local population is showing disaffection, a low sense of belonging to these spaces and very few measures were taken in the past years to promote the conservation and restoration of this important heritage. Erasing this part of the national history, and this local and international architectural heritage, is a big loss for the country and a missed opportunity to investigate the recent Kuwait history. Conservation attitude can come only after a process of knowledge.

Therefore, this research project is the first systematic survey and in-depth thematic investigation of Kuwait modernist heritage and concrete architecture. Following the path of previous studies done for the pre-oil houses, the research aim is to collect all the possible information, including drawings and original picture/ videos of the major buildings. A custom-made digital database will collect and organize all this information for a number of 150 buildings already shortlisted (between 1960s - 1980s).

The output of the research will be the content for a bi-lingual publication/catalogue and an exhibition to be displayed at the American Cultural Centre by Dar al Athar al Islmaiyyah.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 75,167

Total budget: K.D. 132,667

63 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

The Dictionary of the Holy Qur’ān (Special Project)

A. Al-Ghunaim

Project Progress – Abstract

The dictionary of the Holy Qur’ān emanated from a noble directive. His Highness, the late Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the former Amir of Kuwait, had vowed to present to the Muslim nation, in particular, and the world at large, a dictionary of the Holy Qur’ān that would make it easier to comprehend, elucidate its contents and explain its objectives in a contemporary style that meets the requirements of the average intellectual and does not fall short of the needs of the specialist in the field. In other words, it would be an ‘encyclopedia’ that deals with the Holy Qur’ān: its words and what may represent a technical term or a notion that deserves to be analyzed and clarified to qualify as an entry in a dictionary. His Highness, may Allah have full mercy on his soul, assigned the implementation of this significant project to the Kuwait Foun- dation for the Advancement of Sciences.

The Dictionary is the first to be published in Arabic, translated into English and French, and combines the legislative, historical, geographical, archeological, botanical, zoological and medicinal aspects in words, illus- trative pictures and maps. It comprises two main divisions: (1) a series of studies that present the Qur’ān, its history, language, the ways of inferring rules from it, and all the basic issues related to the Qur’ān, and (2) the terms of the Qur’ān itself, i.e. the entries that express its substance and reveal its objectives. The reader can easily understand the term and its explanation, and identify the related terms.

The Dictionary included several lexicons each devoted to a specific subject in order to underscore the significance of the Qur’ān as the eternal Muslim Book, and the source of the various jurisprudential sciences and the course of Muslim life, whether doctrinal, worshipping, legislative or social, between Muslims or international relations with non-Muslims.

As an introduction to these Lexicons, several volumes were issued, that deal with the history, language and rules of the Holy Qur’ān, namely:

1. Introduction to the Holy Qur’ān, relating to its history and subject matter, written by a number of scholars, published in Arabic, English and French.

2. The Message of the Holy Qur’ān on the Issues of Faith, Prophethood, Ethics and the Universe, by the late Professor Muhammad Abdulhadi Abu-Ridah, in Arabic and English.

3. The Language of the Holy Qur’ān, by the late Professor Ahmad Mukhtar Umar, in Arabic.

4. The Ways of Inferring Rules from the Holy Qur’ān, by Professor Ajil Jassim Al-Nashmi, in Arabic.

Several lexicons have also appeared:

1. The Lexicon of Plants and Botanic Terms, in Arabic, English and French.

2. The Lexicon of Medicine, in Arabic and English.

3. The Lexicon of Zoology, in Arabic and English.

4. The Lexicon of the Terms of Civilization, in Arabic.

5. The Lexicon of Names: Part I – Proper Names, in Arabic and English.

6. The Lexicon of Names: Part II – Pseudonyms, in Arabic; an English version is in the press.

7. The Lexicon of Faiths.

The panel is currently engaged in continuing this large project which was well received by those interested in Islamic studies and by intellectuals in general.

- The Lexicon of Ethics.

- The Lexicon of Geography, Astronomy and Geology.

- The translation into English of other lexicons.

This project is related to the Book of Almighty Allah. Its treatment requires the utmost precision and attention. Therefore, the implementation of one volume/lexicon per year, in addition to following up translation work is what could be accomplished in this respect. With this great project, the vow taken by the Amir and the State of Kuwait to the Muslim world would be fulfilled.

64 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Graduate Student Research Grant The National Accreditation Program in Kuwait: Its Development, Implementa- tion and Impact on Quality Improvement in Public Hospitals (2011-6302-01)

M. Alkhabbaz

Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), U.K.

Project Progress - Abstract

Hospital accreditation is a well-known approach used by many healthcare organizations to improve the safety and quality of their services; however there is still limited and contested evidence of its value and impact.

This research aims to evaluate whether Kuwait’s national accreditation program has improved the quality of health care in public hospitals from clinical, management and client perspectives.

The study has three main parts:

Part 1: Study design, literature review and formal approval (UK & Kuwait).

Part 2: Primary data collection and preliminary analysis.

Part 3: Secondary data collection, detailed analysis, interpretation and write-up.

This report focuses on part 2 and 3 of the study.

Since the second progress report (January 2014), preliminary analysis of patient FGDs was completed. This was followed by detailed statistical analysis of patients’ questionnaires (both in-patient and out-patients). Literature review and methodology chapters were written and the country of study chapter was also completed. Although a preliminary analysis of all qualitative data has been completed, advanced qualitative analysis is still required. Major parts of the result chapter were completed and the discussion chapter was started recently.

Results from the base-line and post-intervention out-patient surveys as well as results from base-line in-patient surveys highlighted a significant difference between hospitals with broad implementation of accreditation (BIA) and hospitals with limited implementation of accreditation (LIA) in many studied dimensions, favoring hospitals with broad implementation of accreditation. This indicates that patients from hospitals with advanced implementation of accreditation were more satisfied with the provided health services than patients from hospitals who newly joined the program. However, in-patient survey results in the post-intervention phase showed that hospitals with LIA scored higher than hospitals with BIA in 5 out of the 7 survey dimensions, indicating that hospitals with LIA improved more at this stage than hospitals with BIA from patients’ perspective.

Comparing post intervention data from the out-patient survey with the base-line showed that post-inter- ventional scores were higher than base-line score in all study dimensions in both hospital types. Comparing post intervention data from the in-patient survey with the base-line showed that scores improved in all study dimensions for hospitals with LIA, but declined in most dimensions for hospitals with BIA. This could be due to the timing of the survey, which took place in the stagnation period of the accreditation cycle for hospitals with broad implementation of accreditation. These results may indicate a positive impact of accreditation on the quality of health services from patients’ perspective.

While patients were not involved directly in the accreditation program in Kuwait, they perceive that there has been an improvement in the quality of health care in the public hospitals in Kuwait, which could be a result of introducing the national accreditation program. Continuing to monitor patient satisfaction is an important aspect of accreditation programs, as patients should be the center of any successful health care services.

KFAS contribution: £ 22,000

Total budget: £ 22,000

65 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Human DNA Profiling Using STR and SNP Genomic Markers: A Concordance Analysis Project in the Kuwaiti Population (2012-6302-01)

J. Adullah

Arabian Gulf University, Kingdom of Bahrain

Project Progress – Abstract

Since the early eighties human DNA typing has become a cornerstone of forensic medicine. Indeed, genomic markers offer a variety of powerful means for human DNA typing. Several methods emerged and were developed, of which, the Short Tandem Repeats (STR), has become the leading method used in human DNA typing.

Objective of the study is to carry out a genetic study of the 16 STR markers used worldwide for human DNA profiling to establish a DNA database for Kuwaiti population, using two kits from different suppliers and perform concordance analysis.

Five hundred samples of saliva and blood samples on FTA cards were collected from unrelated Kuwaitis and used for genomic DNA extraction and variation analysis of the 16 STR markers and amelogenin. The concordance study performed two different human identification commercial kits. AmpFℓSTR NGM SElect (Life Technologies, USA) and PowerPlex ESI 17 (Promega, USA), used in routine typing of the same 16 STR loci.

Combined Discrimination Power (CDP) for the 16 STR loci in the Kuwaiti population was estimated as 0.9434. All the markers were in HWE except the D21S11 locus; 32 dropout alleles were recorded for eight markers (TH01, D21S11, D18S51, FGA, D2S1338, D22S1045, D19S433, and SE33). Genetic variation was suspected to be the main reason behind the observed discordance and confirmed in three markers (D18S51, FGA, and SE33). Our study showed 99.65% concordance rate when comparing the 16 STR loci.

PowerPlex ESI 17 and NGM SElect Kits are valuable forensic tools and suitable for routine use in forensic studies in the Kuwaiti population. Genetic variation could be at the basis for the observation of data discordance and drop out alleles.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 16,380

Total budget: K.D. 16,380

66 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Restoration and Management Damaged for Ecosystems in the State of Kuwait (2012-6401-02)

M. Abdullah

Texas A&M University, U.S.A.

Project Progress - Abstract

Severe environmental damages occurred that impacted Kuwait’s ecosystems during the war in 1990/1991. The main objective of this project was to design a restoration plan for Umm Nigaa (Buhaith) in Kuwait, which was proposed as future protected area. Specific objectives of this project were to (1) assess the impact of land cover change in the protected area using remote sensing; (2) estimate potential soil loss using empirical models, including Soil Loss Equation Method (USLE), Erosion Potential Method (EPM), and Modified Pacific South West Inter Agency Committee Method (MPSIAC); (3) assess ecosystem damage by conducting field survey and soil sampling; and (4) design a restoration framework plan. The first three objectives were accomplished at this stage. We found that vegetation cover increased in the damaged unfenced site after the 1991 Gulf War from 2% in 1988 to 37% in 1998 but then it decreased to 23% in 2013. In the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) comparison site, the vegetation cover also increased from 0% in 1988 to 40% in 1998 and it continued increasing through 2013 to 64%. It was also illustrated that overgrazing and destructive camping are the major sources of the disturbance. Thus, the field survey and soil sampling results did not show significant differences between undamaged and damaged sites in desert units, which mean that autogenic recovery may occur, and soil remediation and re-vegetation may not be necessary to restore the damaged site. We also found that the MPSIAC and EMP models were similar in spatial distribution of erosion, though the MPSI- AC had a more realistic spatial distribution of erosion and presented finer level details. The USLE presented unrealistic results. We conclude that the MPSIAC model is best for predicting soil erosion for arid regions and that vegetation cover plays a major role in reducing soil erosion.

KFAS contribution: US$35,550

Total budget: US$35,550

Potential Native Plant Phytoremediators for Restoration of Petroleum Hydro- carbon Polluted Soils of Kuwait (2012-6501-01)

S. Al-Ateeqi

University of Glasgow (UK)

Project Progress - Abstract:

In previous parts of this study the Haloxylon salicornicum has been established as a potential native plant phytoremediator in Kuwait. The need for a large scale treatment of such approach has emerged after the Gulf war in 1990-1991, where oil contamination destroyed vast stretches of wild life niches. Block experiment design was used with 4 blocks of replicates, each with 5 treatments (100%, 75%, 50% oil-50% Clean soil, 25%, and Clean soil as a control), and each treatment with 3 replicas of a one-year old Haloxylon.

The interaction was non-significant for the oil levels and the blocks, while the oil levels had a significant effect for the fresh weight, which means that amount of oil levels actually affected the amount of the biomass. The same thing happened to the dry weight where the oil level affected the dry weight so there will be an increase in biomass much more than the fresh, and the regression is higher, which means that the oil levels is significant and has a stronger effect on dry weight. In addition, Microflora was extracted and identified. Various types of Fungi (ex. Penicillium) and Bacteria (ex. Streptomyces) were present.

After two months of the experiment, the Haloxylon exhibited high tolerance of the contamination, even in 100% oil contamination, and was coping with the stress by elongating the shoots. The presence of the microflora might indicate its ability to help in the degradation of the Polyaromatic Hydrocarbon.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,000

Total budget: K.D. 7,000

67 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Investigation of Structure’s Attitude Toward E-Learning in Kuwait University (2013-6109-01)

A. Ashkanani

Dublin City University

Progress Report- Abstract:

E-learning is a technological innovation that associates technology with learning, and influences person’s behavior and reflects on how they perform their work. This empirical study reports on the development and implementation of an adapted version of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Davis, 1986) to examine instructors’ perspectives on e-learning at Kuwait University.

While the Kuwait University environment does not differ substantially from other higher education institutes, the study examines the specific needs of this environment through identification of external variables that will assist Kuwait University to utilize e-learning systems in meeting organizational objectives. The identified variables are divided into three categories namely, Instructor Personal Factors (Computer Self-Efficacy, Prior Experience, Job Relevance), Technology Factors (System Quality, Technical Support), and Organizational Factors (Professional Development, University Strategic Focus). Furthermore, the study investigates the relationship between the instructors’ perspectives and background variables such as gender, teaching location, professional classifications, teaching experience, and different levels of e-learning system use and seeks to integrate all variables into a study model.

The study adopted a mixed methods approach with the substantive data collection method being the implementation of an adapted TAM instrument, a survey of instructors at KU and a series of interviews with key stakeholders.

The results show that there is a strong positive and significant perception of attitudes toward e-learning technology, that instructors’ use e-learning methods moderately in their courses and that instructors recognized the importance of using e-learning. However, there were acceptance challenges identified including the need for significant preparation, technical glitches, a shortage of highly qualified specialists in educational technology, and a scarcity of educational programs to support the e-courses. While the findings identify challenges in e-learning acceptance, they also pinpoint several solutions including the necessity for a clear strategic policy on the introduction of e-learning by Kuwait University. It is argued that a more rigorous policy must be implemented at the university and that some policies/solutions implemented need to be championed at national level. On the basis of the findings of the research, conclusions are drawn and recommendations are made.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,908

Total budget: K.D. 6,908

68 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Awareness among Medical Students, Resi- dent Physicians and Attending Physicians (2013-6302-01)

H. Ali

University of Manitoba, Canada

Project Progress - Abstract:

The project aims to measure physical medicine and rehabilitation awareness and knowledge among medical students, resident physicians and attending physicians in Canada and to investigate how PM&R resident physicians and attending physicians came across the specialty. The views of the concerned groups will be taken into account, while attempting to understand how to increase the awareness as well as to address the lack of it. Based on the fact that the Kuwaiti and Canadian health systems are very similar in training and patient access and referring system, the outcomes and benefit of this project will benefit both countries to a great extent, such as reducing waiting patient list, delivering better specialized services to the disabled patient population.

This study is highly dependent on the response rate. Therefore, a strong incentive to all participants is essential. Awareness and knowledge among medical students, residents and physicians is low. This deficit can be corrected by designing an educational module. A questionnaire will be e-mailed to undergraduate and post graduate studies departments to three target universities and the same will be emailed to three College of Physicians and Surgeons. Their role is to forward the email to their students, resident physicians and attending physicians.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 10,000

Total budget: K.D. 10,000

Effects of a 12-week Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme for ST-Segment Ele- vation Myocardial Infarction Patients in Kuwait: A Quasi-Experimental Trial (2013-6302-02)

F. Al-Ansari

Swansea University, U.K.

Project Progress - Abstract:

This study will examine effects of a 12-week comprehensive cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) program for MI patients in Kuwait, which involves exercise and educational sessions (Phase III). The aim of the study is to determine whether a supervised comprehensive CR program can improve physical functional capacity, psychosocial status and healthy lifestyle adherence. Environmental and cultural factors usually affect adherence to healthy lifestyle habits, and regions of the Middle East are easily affected by such factors (e.g. obesity, diabetes), due to unhealthy lifestyle habits and exacerbated by a severe hot climate that militates against regular physical exercise and outdoor pursuits. A tailored program in a safe medical setting could prevent and manage cardiac events, to help reduce the risks, which will be held at the Dasman Diabetes Institute.

This study will be the first to investigate the effects of this new healthcare provision, comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation in Kuwait. The study’s design will be of a quasi-experimental nature, comparing study’s participants with patients that receive the usual after-care, following acute MI, ranging between young adults and elderly, for both males and females.

The study will collect data before and after the 12-week CR program. The objectives set out will estimate measuring effects of change via the outcome measure VO2max, for physical functional capacity, using the cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) as a measuring tool. A secondary outcome measure will be to compare psychosocial status before and after the 12-week CR program using the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP). Adherence to the intervention will be evaluated via interviews with patients who attend less than 8-weeks of the total 12-weeks (drop-out participants) to investigate reasons for non-continuance.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 12,300

Total budget: K.D. 12,300

69 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Identifying the Functional Significance of IGF2BP1 Expression in Breast Cancer (2013-6302-03)

S. Fakhraldeen

University of Wisconsin- School of Medicine and Public Health, U.S.A.

Project Progress - Abstract

CRD-BP/IMP-1 is a RNA binding protein described as showing “oncofetal” expression, thus widely expressed in embryonic tissue, and induced in response to tumorigenesis in many tissue types. In this study, we re-evaluate this description, showing that not only does transcription initiate at a distinct internal promoter in the CRD-BP gene in adult tissues and tumors but the predominant form of the protein is distinct from that expressed in embryos. Overall, CRD-BP expression has been under-reported due to the variety of mRNA species expressed, and the fact that the short-form of the protein is missing key, antibody-reactive epitopes. We show that a CRD-BP mutant mouse strain retains expression of the shorter transcript (ΔN-CRD-BP) originating in intron 2. Also, a long (7kB), let-7-regulated 3’UTR is absent from most tumor cells, eliminating this miRNA-based control mechanism. We find that CRD-BP protein is expressed by both normal and tumor breast epithelial cells, and that it is crucial to the clonogenic survival of mouse and human breast tumor cell lines. Furthermore, both the full-length CRD-BP protein and the N-terminal truncated version typical of tumor cells, can individually rescue clonogenic activity. In summary, the CRD-BP gene locus shows hetero- chronic regulation, relying on distinct regulation of transcription initiation in embryos and adults and CRD- BP is essential to breast tumor cell survival.

KFAS contribution: US$ 69,884

Total budget: US$ 69,884

Structure and Function of High Density Lipoprotein (P114-62MB-01)

F. Alkandari

University of Glasgow, U.K.

Project Progress- Abstract:

The aim of this PhD thesis is to determine whether measurements of High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) functions, subclass levels, particle size, or particle number are of clinical importance in evaluating an individual patient, which will also depend on further clinical and epidemiological studies, including the evaluation of these HDL markers in ongoing longitudinal studies that also include measurements of underlying subclinical atherosclerosis

KFAS contribution: £ 14,102

Total budget: £ 14,102

70 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

The Effect of Anthropogenic Disturbance on the Ecology and Physiology of Dhubs (Uromastyx Aegyptius) in Kuwait (P114-62SL-01)

M. Al Sayegh

Arizona State University, U.S.A.

Project Progress- Abstract:

In mid Spring 2014, the project leader started data collection. It was a successful field season with a lot of data that I collected using equipment that I purchased with KFAS funding. I came back to ASU and started working on my data analysis through the year 2015. Further data analysis took place at the University of New Mexico – Albuquerque. All data analysis was completed by the end of 2015

KFAS contribution: US$ 20,793

Total budget: US$ 20,793

The Use of Alu Elements in Forensic Medicine: A Study on an Arab Population (P114-63MC-01)

S. Abumarzouq

Arabian Gulf University, Kingdom of Bahrain

Project Progress- Abstract

Alu elements represent a family of short interspersed DNA elements (SINEs) found in primate genomes. These are members of a group of transposable elements that integrate into the genome by the process of retro-transposition. Recent integrations of Alu elements within the human genome have generated presence/absence of variants useful as DNA markers in human population studies, as well as forensic analysis. Besides the ease of use, this type of marker is unique because the absence of the Alu represents the ancestral form. However, Alu repeats exhibit less variation than multiplex Short Tandem Repeat (STR) profiles would; therefore, most likely used to gain more information on an unknown sample rather than as an independent source of identification in forensic world. Because of these characteristics, polymorphic Alu elements are useful in studies of human genetic diversity and forensic analysis.

The aim of this study is to provide a database of Alu insertion polymorphism in Kuwaiti population to ascertain the inferred geographic ancestry of unknown human DNA samples. Also, it aims to search for an Arab-specific new Alu element in Kuwaiti population as a new tool in forensics. In addition, the application of Alu elements based methods will be studied as a new tool to be used in Kuwait forensic investigations, such as, identifying an unknown individual gender, as well as in medical and scientific applications. DNA will be extracted from 500 adult blood samples and the nature of the candidate Alu loci will be evaluated by its presence or absence in human samples. These samples will be subjected for genetic analysis using known Alu insertion polymorphisms and mobile element-based sex typing assay. Standard PCR reactions for aga- rose gel-based detection will be carried out for the amplification and population study. Also, the samples will be subjected for the identification of new Alu insertion that might be specific for Kuwait/Arab population using the recent mobile element scanning (ME-Scan) technique.

This project will offer new tools that can be used in Kuwait forensic medicine investigations. Alu elements-based methods are significantly useful in narrowing the pool of investigation, in addition to the identification of unknown sample gender. Moreover, this study will provide databases for Kuwait population that can be used latterly in different projects of application including pharmacogenomics, disease project and population genetics as well as forensic medicine.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,300

Total budget: K.D. 7,300

71 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

App-Delivered Therapy for Arabic Readers with Hemianopic Alexia (P114- 63MC-02)

S. Al-Ragam

University College London, U.K.

Project Progress- Abstract

Hemianopic Alexia is a specific reading disorder that is related to a visual impairment mainly caused by stroke or head injury. This damages a person’s vision relating to one half of the visual world (hemianopia). For readers of English text (left-to-right readers), the hemianopia is usually on the right side, for readers of Arabic (right-to-left readers), the hemianopia is on the opposite, left side. In order to read, you have to move your eyes along a line of text three to four times per second. To do this efficiently, you make use of the visual information to the right (English) or left (Arabic) of where you are looking. Patients with hemianopic alexia are deprived of much of this information and make many extra eye movements. This slows them down significantly, often preventing patients from being able to read efficiently for work or pleasure. I am interested in exploring the rehabilitation of hemianopic alexia in Arabic readers after stroke, a condition that currently has no assessment or treatment resources. The aim is to develop novel Arabic reading tests and rehabilitation materials. In English, a treatment package delivered via the website http://www.readright.ucl. ac.uk/ has already been developed. My project will (1) translate this package into Arabic; (2) develop new Arabic reading test materials; and (3) collect data from Arabic stroke patients in a Phase 2 clinical trial. This will provide an effective, novel, and scientifically-proven reading treatment package for Arabic readers with hemianopic alexia helping them read again.

KFAS contribution: £20,000

Total budget: £20,000

Techno-Economical Evaluation of the Production of Bio Drugs: Study of Two Processes for the Manufacturing of Recombinant Human Biodrug Interfer- on-Alpha (P114-63MM-01)

D. Al-Otaibi

Arabian Gulf University, Kingdom of Bahrain

Project Progress- Abstract

Biodrugs are set to dominate the pharmaceutical market. Fifty-seven percent (57%) of the drugs currently in development are biodrugs. Currently, the market cost of biodrugs is very high, which restrict their large availability and make their use an economic burden to the healthcare system. Therefore, mastering of the techno-economic aspects of the production of biodrugs is crucial for the development of new biopharma industry in the gulf countries. In addition, controlling the techno-economic aspect of their manufacturing will contribute to lowering the prices of drugs. This work consists of analyzing the techno-economic aspect of the manufacturing of recombinant human interferon alpha, an important multi-indication biodrug considered to be life-saving in hepatitis B and indicated in 14 types of cancer. The work shall be carried out on two manufacturing processes that were developed by my PhD supervisor. The two processes hold international patents. The first allows the production of recombinant human alpha interferon from Escherichia coli bacterium and the second from the yeast Pichia pastoris. The evaluation of the techno-economic aspect of the production of interferon alpha using each process will be carried out throughout the development of a pilot study in a 20 liter fermenter. Each of the upstream (biomass production) and the downstream process (purification) will be monitored for capital cost and running breakdowns. The fixed capital investment will be approximated using the Lang factorial method with factors in the range of 4-7 that are more suitable for the biopharmaceutical sector. Operation costs related to the manufacturing processes will be calculated. Finally, the economic performance of each process will be compared, taking into consideration the yield and specific activity for the final product from the two processes.

KFAS contribution: KD 9,500

Total budget: KD 9,500

72 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | Ongoing Projects

Multiplying the Optical Fiber Channel Capacity through Spatial Multiplexing (P114-65EE-01)

S. Alanzi

Florida Institute of Technology, U.S.A

Project Progress- Abstract:

Spatial domain multiplexing (SDM) is a system that allows multiple channels of light to traverse a single fiber, utilizing separate spatial regions inside the carrier fiber, thereby applying a new degree of photon freedom for optical fiber communications. These channels follow a helical pattern, the screen projection of which is viewable as concentric rings at the output end of the system. The MlMO nature of the SDM system implies that a typical pin-diode or APD will be unable to distinguish between these channels, as the diode will interpret the combination of the SDM signals from all channels as a single signal. As such, spatial de-multiplexing methods must be introduced to properly detect the SDM based MIMO signals. One such method utilizes a fiber consisting of multiple, concentric, hollow core fibers to route each channel independently and thereby de-mux the signals into separate fibers or detectors. These de-mux fibers consist of hollow core cylindrical structures with beveled edges on one side that gradually taper to route the circular, ring type, output energy patterns into a spot with the highest possible efficiency. This paper analyzes the beveled edge by varying its length and analyzing the total output power for each predetermined length allowing us to stimulate ideal bevel length to minimize both system losses as well as total de-mux footprint. OptiBPM simulation engine is employed for these analyses.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 18,908

Total budget: K.D. 18,908

73 New Projects

Investigation of Switching Factors to Mobile Service Providers in Kuwait: A Field Study from Customers and Mobile Providers (2013-1110-02)

K. Rouibah

Kuwait University – Center of Excellence in Management

Abstract

Mobile Number Portability (MNP) became effective in Kuwait on June 16, 2013 in order to increase competi- tiveness among the mobile service providers in Kuwait. The challenge facing decision makers of these companies is to maintain their customers as much as possible. This goal cannot be achieve unless efforts are put in order to understand potential factors that lead to customers’ dissatisfaction of current services and what potential reasons may lead them to think about switching to other service providers.

Many past studies focused on reasons that push customers to switch to other mobile service providers and Internet service providers. However, these studies suffer from several limitations including lack of designing an integrated model with rigorous research methodology. Accordingly, these studies focused on specific factors without providing rational for their choice. In addition, Arab studies dedicated to switching mobile service provider, based on MNP, are almost lacking despite the fact that some Arab countries have the highest mobile penetration rates in the world.

To fill in this gap, this study aims to investigate the drivers and obstacles that influence the switch of customers to other mobile service providers in Kuwait by conducting a review of the relevant studies in the field; build an exploratory and causal model between independent variables motives to switch and the dependent variable (the intention to switch to other mobile service provider’s, or the current switch, or the decision to stay with the current service providers), and test the validity of the proposed model based on a sample of customers in Kuwait. It is expected that this study will have several positive implications for both research and practice. From a research perspective, this study is expected to shed light on most important drivers of switching between mobile service providers, and how these differ, compared to other cultures. From a man- agerial perspective, the study will suggest practical recommendations on how to preserve customer loyalty and prevent them from switching to others.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 14, 099

Total budget: K.D. 22, 786

74 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Composition of Steroids and other Lipid Fractions and Proteins: The Anti-In- flammatory, Anti-Cancer Activities in Preparations from the Skin of the Arabi- an Gulf Catfish (Arius Bilineatus, Valenciennes) (2013-1207-1B)

J. Al-Hassan & C. Pace-Asciak

Kuwait University, in collaboration with Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto

Abstract

This project is multifaceted in nature. It involves research in a number of scientific and medicinal specializa- tions. The only way to achieve its goals is to involve local and international experts in these fields. Our recent preliminary investigations at MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC) in Houston, TX, involving different lipid fractions, showed that some lipid soluble fractions from catfish skin preparations (CSP) have anti-inflammatory as well as anti-proliferative activities against prostate, pancreatic, lung and liver cancer cell lines.

Professor Cecil Pace-Asciak (a world authority on lipids, especially eicosanoids and hepoxilins) will use mass spectrometry to scan all lipids and proteins (fractions or pure components) that have been fractionated and separated at KU for the structural characterization and various bioassays in-house to investigate their biological activities with respect to anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-thrombotic activities utilizing his highly specialized laboratory facilities and immense experience in the field. He will also carry out in vitro and in vivo experiments to illustrate activities for these fractions and establish mechanisms of action. The Luminex technology will be employed to investigate signaling pathways in plasma affected by selected pu- rified fractions of biological interest after administration to rodents in vivo. It is hoped that Professor Cecil Pace-Asciak will be able to visit KU labs for consultations and training of research personnel on different advanced research techniques practiced in his lab. The final goals of the overall project are: 1) alleviation of chronic pain and inflammation; 2) inflammation and neuropathic pain that result from aggressive cancer treatment regimens; 3) introduction of novel treatments for some types of cancer; and 4) studies of the effects of lipid and protein components on thrombosis and diabetes.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 226,761

Total budget: K.D. 226,761

Social Network: A Tool for Family Interaction Displacement (P114-11OS-02)

A. Dashti

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

One of the dilemmas many families are facing today is the use of Social Network (SN) among their members, regardless of its positive advantages. SN affects many social activities, including family’s interaction and communication. The picture is common everywhere; families come together but do not interact with each other as they switch to the smartphones to communicate with their contacts in virtual cyberspace. This study aims to explore this phenomenon in the Kuwaiti society to determine how much SN programs have affected family ties and communication with regard to the displacement theory as a theoretical framework to understand this effect. The results will show how SN strongly affects face-to-face communication within the family as more time is spent with online acquaintances than their real families.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,000

Total budget: K.D. 7,000

The Effect of Dietary Probiotics and Prebiotics on the Performance of Broiler Chickens in Kuwait (P114-12SL-06)

H. Al-Khalaifa

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

There has been an urgent need to minimize the use of antibiotics for health and safety reasons. Probiotics and prebiotics were claimed to serve as effective alternatives to replace antibiotics in poultry feed. Finding the effect of different commercial probiotics and prebiotics on the performance, meat quality and immune

75 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects response of broiler chickens raised in Kuwait will provide researchers in the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) with information needed to help them in understanding and improving the performance of these broiler chickens.

The major objective of this project is to investigate the effect of different commercially produced probiotics and prebiotics on the performance, meat quality and immune response of broiler chickens raised in Kuwait. This objective will be met through five tasks, namely, mobilization; raising of broiler chickens; investigation of the effect of probiotics and prebiotics on the performance and immune status of broiler chickens raised in Kuwait; investigation of the effect of probiotics and prebiotics on the meat quality of broiler chickens raised in Kuwait; and reporting.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 54,200

Total budget: K.D. 160,420

Outcome of Admissions to the Palliative Care Center of Kuwait (P114-13MC-04)

K. Al-Saleh

Ministry of Health

Abstract

The current palliative care models in the Gulf region are largely hospital-based in tertiary care hospitals and are considered as “acute palliative care models” (Zeinah et al., 2013). In an example from Saudi Arabia, and in the absence of sub-acute palliative care models, the majority (86%) of patients admitted to a tertiary palliative care unit died in-hospital and the average length of hospital stay was 24 days (Alsirafy et al., 2009). In another example from Qatar (Al-Kindi et al., 2013), 62% of patients admitted to a tertiary palliative care unit died in hospital and the average length of hospital stay was 31 days which was higher than that reported from Saudi Arabia.

The outcome of admission to hospital-based acute palliative care units in western countries is different from the examples in our region (Alsirafy et al., 2009). In a study from the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in the United States that included 500 patients, the outcome of admission to an acute palliative care unit was assessed. In that study, 25% (124 out of 500) of patients died in-hospital. In multivariate analysis, some factors were associated significantly with in-hospital death. These factors included younger age, admission from another oncology floor, hypernatremia, high blood urea nitrogen, high heart rate (>/= 01 bpm), high respiration rate and supplemental oxygen use (Elsayem et al., 2010). A better understanding of the factors associated with discharge outcomes would allow clinicians to distinguish patients who are appropriate for home discharge from those who have a high likelihood of dying in the hospital, and facilitate clinical decision-making. Using a retrospective design David Hue et al., 2010, examined the frequencies, survival times, and predictors associated with home discharges and death in hospitalized patients with cancer who required an APCU stay.

Patients and Methods:

A retrospective observational study

Eligibility criteria:

• Patients accepted for admission at PCC-K

• Patients should have evidence of active life-threatening illness which is beyond cure.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 4,860

Total budget: K.D. 4,860

Studying the Genetics of Congenital Thoracic Anomalies in Consanguineous Kuwaiti Families Caused by Cilia Dysfunction (P114-13MG-01)

D. Al-Mutairi

Kuwait University

Abstract

Congenital thoracic anomalies are spectrum of rare heterogeneous genetic disorders affecting the organs in the thoracic cavity such as pulmonary and cardiovascular systems. Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is one of the congenital thoracic disorders caused by dysfunction of motile cilia resulting in insufficient mucociliary 76 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects clearance of the lungs. Approximately 50% of all PCD patients have Kartagener syndrome, a triad of bron- chiectasis, sinusitis and situs inversus totalis. Recent studies noted that approximately 6% of PCD patients suffer from heterotaxy which comprises a broad spectrum of abnormalities and which intensifies morbidity caused by complex cardiovascular anomalies.

Congenital heart disease (CHD) affects the structure and the function of the cardiovascular system and it is the most common type of birth defect. Recent studies have shown that dysfunctions of nodal cilia during lat- erality development and primary cardiac cilia during cardiac differentiation are involved in the development of many types of CHD. This indicates that CHD are congenital thoracic anomalies caused predominantly by ciliary malfunction and PCD screening is recently recommended for patients who have congenital heart disease (CHD). The pathogenesis of developing most types of CHD is poorly understood and the majority of the caused genes are still unknown based on studies performed in mice.

Autozygosity mapping and exome sequencing approaches can be effectively applied in mapping novel genes causing the phenotypes under study. The project team have previously mapped two novel PCD-causing genes CCDC103 and LRRC6. In addition, the project team very recently mapped CCNO in a multiplex consanguineous Kuwaiti family with five affected individuals. The CCNO was the first gene reported to cause a congenital pulmonary disease marked by a “reduced generation of multiple motile cilia” (RGMC). Further genetic analysis has a great potential to uncover more genes and pathways associated with the occurrence and the severity of different congenital thoracic anomalies.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 195,950

Total budget: K.D. 282,240

The Correlation between Acceptance of Illness and Quality of Life in Advanced Cancer Patients (P114-13MG-02)

K. Al-Saleh

Ministry of Health

Abstract

QOL is defined by the World Health Organization as ‘an individual’s perception of their position in life, in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards and concerns’. There is no doubt that the diagnosis of a life threatening disease such as cancer is devastating and has an enormous effect on one’s quality of life (QOL). The acceptance of illness (Al) reduces negative reactions and emotions associated with the disease and its therapy. The higher Al level, the less intense negative reactions and emotions related to a disease the better QOL.

Aim of the work:

The primary outcome is to measure the degree of acceptance of illness in advanced cancer patients and the quality of life among acceptance and non-acceptance patients.

Patients and Methods:

Cross sectional study of acceptance of illness and quality of life among patients diagnosed with advanced cancer receiving palliative care services in palliative care center in Kuwait, patients who will fulfill all inclusion and exclusion criteria will be interviewed by palliative physician and social worker, before the interview the purpose of these questions will be explained to the patients and a written consent will be obtained. Accept- ance of Illness Scale will be used to assess their acceptance of illness then quality of life of both acceptances/ non acceptances will be assessed using EORTC QLQ-C15-pal questionnaire and The Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS).

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,940

Total budget: K.D. 6,940

77 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Assessment of Body Composition of Kuwaiti Infants by Using Air Displacement Plethysmography (PEA POD) (P114-13MK-01)

T. Al-Ati

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The high prevalence of obesity and overweight in Kuwait is a major public health problem which needs to be addressed by the development of evidence-based lifestyle interventions as well as by novel approaches such as interventions during the ‘1,000 d’ period, i.e., during pregnancy and the first years of life. There is now strong evidence that growth from conception to two years of age represents a critical ‘window of opportunity’ in terms of later risk of ill health. Research priorities in this area include body composition assessment during early life to provide new data on the ‘quality of growth,’ i.e., the relative partitioning of nutrients to fat-free mass or fat mass associated with infant feeding practices.

This proposal is focused on the introduction of air displacement plethysmography, using PEA POD®, and will, for the first time in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), collect information on growth and body composition in a cohort of healthy, full-term infants from birth to six months of age. In addition, the study will evaluate the efficacy of an intense lactation counseling intervention, especially designed for this study, to promote exclusive breast-feeding up to six months according to the international recommendations by the World Health Organization and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

KFAS contribution: K.D. 43,775

Total budget: K.D. 79,733

Synthesis, Characterization and Theoretical Investigation of Water Soluble Cationic Phthalocyanines and their in vitro Studies for Photodynamic Therapy (P114-14SC-01)

S. Makhseed

Kuwait University

Abstract

Novel derivatives of cationic water-soluble phthalocyanines (Pcs) in monomeric form with variety of peripheral substitutions will be synthesized. Their physicochemical properties will be investigated, based on our preliminary results, which produced Pc derivative with promising singlet oxygen quantum yield () in aqueous media. Biological activities of these novel Pc derivatives will be assessed using different in vitro tests to evaluate their anticancer photodynamic activity (EC50) and low dark toxicity (TC50) to noncancerous cells. Density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT calculations will be carried out to describe the molecular structures, molecular orbital energy gaps, electronic exited states (TD-DFT), and UV-Vis spectra of the synthesized compounds. The calculations will be based on the combination of the B3LYP hybrid functional and the LANL2DZ basis sets.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 189,800

Total budget: K.D. 300,760

Designing and Constructing a Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) for the State of Kuwait (P114-17IA-01)

A. Gelan

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Kuwait’s economic public policy is currently at the crossroads, where opportunities for and threats to an oil-based economy have to be evaluated and appropriate policy actions need to be taken. To begin with, Kuwait is blessed with substantial reserves of oil and gas, amounting to 8.8% of the total supply to the world market by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). The price of oil is forecasted to continually rise and reach US $155 by 2035. These favorable conditions enable Kuwait to maintain its market share for a good number of years. However, excessive dependence on oil production has had serious side

78 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects effects and continues to pose threats to Kuwait’s economic stability. Over the years, structural imbalances in the economy have emerged and deepened. The oil sector dominated the economy; 92% of exports, 94% of government revenue, and 52% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Subsidies and welfare grants dominated total government expenditure. The public policy challenge is the removal of these imbalances to ensure that the economy moves to a sustainable growth path. This requires evidence-based economic policy reforms, as recognized in the Medium-Term Plan (2010 to 2014). The proposed project will inform and strengthen the evidence bases of Kuwait’s development plans and their implementations. The project is planned to construct a Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) for Kuwait. Its aim is to contribute to capacity building in economic policy analysis and supporting decision-making in Kuwait by providing the authorities with a robust tool. This will be achieved by constructing a comprehensive and consistent baseline data, a SAM. The proposed SAM is designed to cover economic, social and environmental domains.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 21,370

Total budget: K.D. 144,373

A Comparative Study of Corporate User-Generated Media and Its Usefulness: Kuwait vs. United States (P114-17IM-04)

D. Al-Saleh

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

As blogging phenomenon becomes more pervasive in personal and corporate lives, companies and universities are harvesting useful information from user-generated media (e.g., Blogs). Due to the significant growth of this phenomenon, businesses in Kuwait and United States have to become more engaged in the blogging behavior of their employees and customers. Though it appears that user-generated media (e.g., Blogs, Twit- ter, among others) has become an increasingly important way for companies to connect with their employees and customers; to date only a handful of research has been done by scholars. Hence, the main objective of this study is to help fill that void in the literature and ascertain the following:

1. Lay the groundwork for understanding the critical factors that lead businesses and institutions in Kuwait and US to create their own user-generated media.

2. To understand organizations’ awareness of their potential liabilities resulting from action of managers or employees in violation of the different laws when using the different tools of user-generated media such as Blogs, Twitter and Instagram.

In order to achieve the objectives of this research, the project team will design a survey in two versions: Eng- lish for the US and Arabic for Kuwait. The study is expected to assist teachers/researchers in both Kuwait and US in enhancement of their graduate and undergraduate programs. Teaching can be more versatile and/ or interesting by incorporating different communications tools, such as Blogs, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, among others. In addition, this study may give insights to administrators, policy makers, and employers in managing their blog sites.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,870

Total budget: K.D. 20,000

Career Strategies of High Potential Employee: Gateway to the Future (P114-17IM-06)

I. Abdallah

Kuwait University

Abstract

This study aims to examine the impact of two sets of predictors namely Employees’ Career Strategies and Organization talent management Program on Employees Career Success, Organization Commitment, Job Engagement and Intention to Leave. The study will also exam the moderating effects of Employees’ Poten- tials (high or low potential), Career Barriers, Gender, Nationality and Economic Sector on the above-mentioned relationships. They study will use both quantitative and qualitative approaches to collect and analyze the data. Thus, 700 highly educated young employees (40% Kuwaitis) will be surveyed, 70 of them will also be interviewed in-depth. Further, in-depth interviews pertaining to the above-mentioned relations will be conducted with 25 senior managers. The study draws its importance from its pioneering focus on the quality 79 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects of managing the talent of high potential employees (HiPos) and its alignment with State of Kuwait Develop- ment Plan - 2010-2014, the Amiri Decree pertaining to empowering and utilizing native young talent, and HH The Amir’s several recent Public Addresses in this regard (e.g., The Address on July 30, 2013). It also draws its importance from the fact that, the information which will be provided by this study is gravely missing from the Arab library, and that the study’s findings will provide valuable training material for the capacity building of youth on aspects of career strategy skills. It is also of value for the capacity building of people overseeing talent management in Kuwaiti organizations, as it is expected to reveal the best practices in talent management in Kuwait, particularly for HiPos, and how other organizations can learn from them. The findings are also expected to extend the external validity of international theories of talent management and career strategies to an Arab culture. The results will be discussed within the Kuwaiti socioeconomic context.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,150

Total budget: K.D. 9,600

Challenges and Opportunities in Establishing Technology Commercialization Programs at GCC Universities (P114-17IM-08)

M. Al-Fahad

Kuwait University – Center of Excellence in Management

Abstract

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is a political union of six countries in Arabian Peninsula. The countries in GCC are factor-based economies whose GDP is predominantly relying on energy resources such as oil and gas. The governments of GCC have, since long, given importance to education and established several universities. These universities have played important role in knowledge dissemination through education and research. However, with growing importance of knowledge-based industry and government initiatives to diversify its factor-based economy to knowledge-based economy, policy makers in private and public sectors have realized the importance of universities in regional economic development. As a result, some of the GCC Universities are in process of transforming from education-driven to knowledge-driven technology transfer. These Universities have critical role to play in developing intellectual property and talent in high technology industries. These have led them to establi1sh centers of innovation to manage programs, such as technology commercialization, entrepreneurship, etc. Owing to early nature of such programs, there are many challenges before the programs could be judged successful. These programs are still struggling to achieve initial success. The objective of this proposal is to determine what are the current and future opportunities which have driven the creation of such programs and what are the current challenges faced on local and regional platform. These findings will assist the universities in present and future to establish technology commercialization program.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,975

Total budget: K.D. 53,950

Automatic Multi-level Categorization of Arabic Text Documents (P114-18EO-01)

F. Al-Anzi

Kuwait University

Abstract

Due to increased automation in the Arab world, there are large amounts of Arabic documents present in digital format in various organizations. Many of these documents are also present in multi-level categories. In addition to this, with the increased usage of internet in Arabic, there are large amounts of unstructured Ar- abic text available online. These large amounts of documents belong to different groups such as education and elections. These documents also contain finer levels of categorization, such as medical education and legal education. Even though there has been some previous work done on Arabic text categorization, it is for a single level categorization scheme. This does not reflect the reality of current data organization. In order to make proper use of this increasing digital information, there is a pressing need for automatic multi-level categorization of Arabic text. Many times, the speed of information retrieval is also very important e.g. a medical professional dealing with an unusual case should be able to quickly sift through the available medical data to uncover details of previous patients with similar symptoms. This project aims to develop techniques for fast categorization and retrieval of Arabic documents present in the form of multi-level categories. As there is no publicly available Arabic corpus with a multi-level categorization scheme, we also intend to compile an Arabic corpus and annotate it with category data for multiple levels. At a later stage, this corpus will be put

80 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects online to help in increasing activity in Arabic language research, which is currently hampered by the lack of good quality annotated corpora.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 22,800

Total budget: K.D. 75,000

Mobile Cloud Computing for Complex Mobile Web Services (P114-18EO-02)

F. AlShahwan

Public Authority for Applied Education and Training

Abstract

Mobile Web Services (MWS) are self-contained modular applications that are defined, published and ac- cessed across the internet in a mobile communications environment using standard protocols. This technology has evolved from advances in the mobile device technology, rapid growth of web services development and progression of wireless communication in parallel with widespread use of internet applications.

Simple web services have been proved previously (AlShahwan & Moessner, 2010) that they can be provided directly from one mobile device acting as a server. However, complex services need a mobile cloud that provides infrastructure and computing resources to support seamless provision of its web services in a lightweight manner.

The goal of this research is to mitigate the issue of resource limitation on mobile devices when providing complex web services. The project team will develop a framework for mobile clouds that provides a lightweight processing for complex context-dependent mobile web services. Their approach focuses on the architecture of this mobile cloud, which consists of a set of collaborative mobile devices that relies on an extended mobile host complex web service framework. The collaborated mobile devices share their resources and apply distributed mechanisms to facilitate providing compound services as a homogenous. The project team will investigate using a workflow to manage the collaboration, which is described by a reduced Business Process Execution Language (BPEL) dialect. This research also classifies the distribution strategies adopted by the mobile cloud into three classes: Contentment Distribution (CD), Simple Partial Distribution (SPD) and Complex Partial Distribution (CPD). The distinction emerges from variance in the types and complexity levels of services that influence the quantity and quality of the distribution mechanisms usage. Novel approaches are proposed in order to exploit these mechanisms and to define and setup the building blocks for the corresponding framework. The correct behavior of this cloud empirically validated and the safety properties are also verified analytically using formal methods. This is complemented by a proof of concept demonstration. Furthermore, an evaluation of their performance is carried out by simulation.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,000

Total budget: K.D. 7,000

Top-Down Impact Analysis Approach to Quantify the Impact of a Change in Software Systems (P114-18EO-03)

L. Tahat

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

Software maintenance is becoming more challenging with the increased complexity of software and frequent applied changes to accommodate the rapidly changing technologies and user requirements. Per- forming Impact Analysis (IA) before the actual implementation of a change is a crucial task during systems maintenance. In this research, the project team proposes applying an impact analysis approach to quantify the impact of a change before it is actually applied on the system. The project team is working on a top- down approach where instead of using the actual system, we use the system model to estimate the impact of a change. The work is focused on the system models to quantify the impact of a change in an effort to simplify and speed up the maintenance process in order to rapidly react to changes in technology and in user requirements.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,175

Total budget: K.D. 16,700

81 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Cloud Computing for Healthcare Institutions in Kuwait (P114-18NH-01)

I. Omran

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

Kuwait is a developing country that has ambitions to reach the highest standards in healthcare services. A key element to reach these standards is: availability of the information in the right time for the right (authorized) people. The importance of electronic healthcare has caused numerous changes in both substantive and procedural aspects of healthcare processes. These changes have produced new challenges to patient privacy and information secrecy. Traditional privacy policies cannot respond to rapidly increased privacy needs of patients in electronic healthcare. Technically enforceable privacy policies are needed in order to protect patient privacy in modem healthcare with its cross-organizational information sharing and decision making. At the same time, a repository of patients’ information should be available for authorized users such as physicians and consultants in order to keep high services standards and protect health and lives.

An information infrastructure requires an efficient and effective information relational system to provide access to the items stored in the infrastructure. However, natural language terms used in classification, indexing and querying contain semantic relations between them and may make the creation of effective search services difficult. Semantic technologies have a great potential to help in these situations and provide a more precise and more context sensitive response. On the other hand, a cloud is essential to provide availability to the required health and personal information.

This project proposes a cloud for hospitals and healthcare institutions in Kuwait which provides availability and security for the sensitive patient personal information. A personal information flow model will be developed to help the cloud manage the data access management to provide availability and security on the same time. The ontology will help users of the cloud to find the information on the right time. In addition, it will help in data mining for researcher purposes. On the other hand, the project will use Chain method instead of the traditional Role Based Access Control (RBAC), which helps in retrieving the information in faster timing as Chain method requires less constraints and tables to be applied in data access management.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 5,750

Total budget: K.D. 5,750

English as the Language of Instruction at Private Universities in Kuwait and its Effects on English Language Proficiency across the Curriculum (P114-19AE-01)

M. Tryzna

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

English education in Kuwait has recently become a subject of national debate, as the educational outcomes were deemed deeply unsatisfactory with regard to English language proficiency. As part of its development plan, the country has focused heavily on enhancing educational outcomes and the proficiency of its citizens in the English language. A common strategy has been to increase the number of universities with English as the language of instruction, such as the Gulf University for Science and Technology or the American University of Kuwait. However, due to their relatively recent addition to the educational landscape of the country, little is currently known about the impact of these universities on educational outcomes and linguistic practices. Although it is generally the case that linguistic competency increases as a result of attending a university where English is the language of instruction, there are no independent measurements of that competency to date. The present study attempts to bridge this gap by employing a two-stage methodology. First, the study identifies and describes particular difficulties that Arab speakers experience in terms of their English competency even at an advanced level of education. Second, the study offers pedagogical recommendations targeting specific problem areas in order to optimize English proficiency outcomes at the higher education level across various university majors.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 4,300

Total budget: K.D. 4,300

82 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Towards a Unified English Technology-Based Writing Curriculum for High Schools in the Arabian Gulf Countries: The Case of Kuwait and Oman (P114-19AE-02)

H. Al-Sharoufi

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

This study is an attempt to create a unified English writing curriculum for two GCC countries, namely Kuwait and Oman. As novel as this attempt may seem. I think that taking this step is realistic enough to involve these two important Gulf countries. Taking the socio-cultural factor into account, one observes that Arabian Gulf people share a similar cultural and religious background. This homogeneity enables one to hypothesize that a unified English writing curriculum would be acceptable and effective for the countries concerned.

This study further investigates the current instructional strategies and modalities, and seeks through using a new web-based application for teaching writing, interviews, and survey data to suggest remedial measures in order to empower teaching writing methods. Also, the gap found in public schools, where Arabic is the main focus of instruction in Kuwait, becomes insignificant when compared to private schools, where English is the medium of instruction. The goal of this research is to make this transition smoother through using a technological writing curriculum. The suggested English writing curriculum is mainly based upon a new web- based application for teaching academic writing. Several studies have shown the importance of technology in teaching English skills, amongst which is writing. Using technology in teaching English writing can help GCC students in becoming more aware of appropriate English writing and its techniques, which will help them immensely in their university years.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,700

Total budget: K.D. 7,700

The Earliest Sound Recordings of the Arabian Peninsula 1905-1909: Arabic Songs and the Shaping of a Cultural History (P115-11AH-01)

L. Urkevich

American University of Kuwait in collaboration with Harvard University

Abstract

Housed in the Leiden Library, Netherlands are over 300 Edison wax cylinders containing the earliest recorded sounds from the Arabian Peninsula. The recordings include call to prayer and spoken texts but most are of songs including maqam-based urban pieces and women’s wedding music. After the recordings were made in the Hijaz between 1905-1909, they were lost and forgotten for decades until a team of researchers from Harvard University discovered them in the 1980s. The cylinders were eventually digitized as mp3 files (recently given a copy). But in the past 30 years they have never been released to the public and the contents have never been thoroughly examined. The recordings are of the utmost value. Very little is known about the culture of the Hijaz in the 1900s as many communities were still in an oral stage. Consequently, any archival data, especially something as extraordinary as recorded sound, is of great significance in shaping regional history. They are also of notice since the majority of the pieces are from Makkah and Medinah, the holy cities and pilgrimage sites for millions around the world: information about these urban centers is of paramount interest to an international community. Moreover, the songs are not just Hijazi but include those from other areas, and I believe that at least two pieces are Kuwaiti or related to Kuwait. If this can be proven, then these will be the earliest recordings of Kuwaiti music in existence.

My research question is: What do these early recordings reveal the shaping of a Peninsula (or Gulf) music history? The approach is collaborative and entails working with others, including Harvard faculty and staff. In fact, the project is inter-institutional, since I have been awarded a Visiting Scholar appointment at the Harvard University Center of Middle Eastern Studies 2015-2016 with the sole purpose of investigating the Hijazi sound files. Harvard researchers were the ones to first locate the cylinders and Harvard museums and archives house important documents not found elsewhere.

The research method will be a) to categorize the recordings and isolate a group of research pieces; b) take the songs back to the Hijaz and share them with expert informants for feedback; c) analyze and contextu- alize the data in order to draw conclusions and reconstruct the past. Time is of the essence since so many knowledgeable subjects are aging, dying, or failing in health and memory.

PI anticipates that they will find that some songs which were sung over a hundred years ago are still sung today, and thus they can start to designate proven regional “masterpieces” which was not possible before. 83 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

They also believe the data will clearly manifest cultural exchange between various areas of the Arabian Pen- insula, and that Yemeni, Egyptian, and Gulf characteristics, both Kuwaiti and Bahraini will be found. The project will connect today’s Peninsula citizens to their history and the research outcomes will be of international interest, especially in the Islamic World, with a potentially far reaching impact.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,885

Total budget: K.D. 28,387

Rise of Kuwait: An Interdisciplinary Study of the Country’s Early Decades, 1750-1820 (P115-11AH-02)

M. Salvadore

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

In recent years, an increased interest in Gulf Studies has led to the production of a number of scholarly volumes that address the development of Arabian Gulf societies in the 19th and 20th centuries. While these works have contributed significantly to our knowledge, there remain gaps both in the historiography of 18th century Kuwait and, more generally, in the evaluation of the textual legacy of the encounter between Gulf Arabs and western travelers. Specifically, the references to 18th and early 19th century Kuwait in European archival documents and travel writings have only received cursory treatment. The project will address this scholarly gap by engaging both with archival materials and narratives by western travelers.

Phase one comprises collection and reading of sources, which are both travel narratives and diplomatic correspondences of various European representatives in the Gulf and the Ottoman Empire. We will access documents that pertain to economic, political, and military matters in Kuwait and its hinterland in archives in Exeter, London, Nantes, Paris, and Venice. Since some of the documents in question have never been investigated from the perspective we will be adopting, it will require some time to organize our findings in both thematic and chronological fashion. We hope that these documents, when read against the grain, will also allow us to recover Arab voices from the period, thus allowing for a comprehensive portrayal of the encounter.

Phase two consists of the writing of three scholarly articles. One article will survey the development of Ku- wait in the context of regional and global dynamics, paying particular attention to the interplay between Ku- waiti leaders, the representatives of various European nations, and those of the Ottoman Empire. A second article will survey the travel narratives that portray the encounter between Gulf Arabs and Europeans and look at how contemporary European discourses shaped the travelers’ self-perception, their views on Gulf Arabs, and their depiction of the Arabian nature and landscape. The third article will investigate an exempla- ry travel narrative, probably Edward Ives’s A Voyage from England to India (1773), which chronicles the first encounter between Kuwaiti and westerners, and provide an in-depth reading to consider western strategies of self-fashioning and representations of Kuwaiti.

Phase three will build on the expertise we have gained to lay the ground for additional scholarly work and for community outreach and presentation of our findings. Regarding the former, we will approach a publisher of Gulf Studies texts to propose an edited collection and will start soliciting contributions for a volume that we expect to publish within a year of the project’s conclusion.

Regarding the latter, we not only hope to give presentations at scholarly institutions throughout the Gulf, but also to make a selection of Kuwait-related documents available in an online repository, both in their original language and in English and Arabic translation. The purpose is to reach out to history teachers with material that could be adopted in schools and colleges across Kuwait and will allow students to explore the country’s heritage from an additional perspective.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,000

Total budget: K.D. 12,500

84 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Media Effect on Citizenship in the Gulf States: Case of Kuwait and Oman (P115-11AM-02)

A. Dashti

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

Citizenship has become one of the delicate issues facing many Gulf States. This study aims to find out how local newspapers reporting in Kuwait and Oman affect the issue of citizenship. Whether the local newspapers play negative (weaken) or positive (strengthen) role when reporting issues linked to citizenship. Kuwait and Oman practice different systems of press freedom. Kuwait is considered as partly free by Freedom House while Oman not free. Using the theory of social responsibility will shed the light on the role the newspapers play regarding the issue of citizenship in these two states.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,000

Total budget: K.D. 6,000

The Role of Committee on Defense of Human Rights of the National Assembly in Kuwait (P115-11OL-01)

A. Jamal

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

This study examines the performance of the Committee on Defense of Human Rights of the Kuwaiti Na- tional Assembly, which was established by the parliament in 24/10/1992 as a temporary committee meant to maintain human rights and conditions in Kuwait. This committee is formed of seven parliament members (PM). This committee is concerned with human rights issues in Kuwait and its role extends to spreading the culture of human rights in Kuwait.

This study tries to shed light on the role and performance of this committee since its establishment by reviewing its works which include investigating the cases and complaints presented to the committee spreading the culture of human rights in Kuwait and suggesting decrees meant to better maintain human rights in Kuwait. This study also tries to present some suggestions and recommendations meant to better organize the work of this committee.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,050

Total budget: K.D. 6,500

Biofuel and Side Products from Kuwait’s Microalgae (P115-12SL-04)

B. Al-Hamar

Kuwait University

Abstract

Energy demand is rising continuously, due to the industrialization of emerging economies and population growth. Although Kuwait is a leading oil producer, it is keenly interested in taking an active part in the development of new technologies for exploiting and utilizing renewable sources of energy.

Microalgae are considered as a potential feedstock for biofuel production, as they produce lipids through photosynthesis. It has been estimated that microalgae lipid productivity can be several fold higher than that of the most productive terrestrial plant, the oil palm. Algae can be grown on non-arable land (including de- serts), most of them do not require fresh water and their nutritional value is high.

The current proposal aims to perform an initial screening of a number of microalgae, in Kuwait coastal waters, to identify species and strains that produce the highest amount of biomass (and the greatest amount of oil) per unit volume and are able to withstand the local abiotic (e.g. temperature, salinity and pH) and biotic (e.g. local grazers and competitors) conditions. Investigated strains and optimal culturing conditions will then inform us about the potentiality for large-scale, cost-effective microalgae-based biofuels production. Moreover, the possibility of production of valuable sub-products (bioactive compounds, food, feed, etc.)

85 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects from downstream processing of microalgae biomass will be investigated.

Positive and conclusive results would be of highest significance toward the definition of future development of novel renewable and sustainable energy production not limited to the country but worldwide. Carbon dioxide emission reduction, carbon sequestration, pollution risk reduction and wastewater management are some of the environmental benefits reachable when the outcomes of this project will be implemented.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 97,300

Total budget: K.D. 193,879

Statistical Predictive Modeling of Cytokine Profiles in Normal and Complicated Human Pregnancy (P115-12SL-06)

K. Dingle

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

Pregnancy involves a state of immunoregulation designed to actively tolerate the semiallogeneic fetus while retaining the ability to mount immune reactions. This immunoregulation includes changes in local and peripheral immune responses and in cytokine profiles. The production of anti-inflammatory Th2 cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-10 are upregulated, while Th1 pro-inflammatory cytokines such as RNF-alpha and IFN-gamma are downregulated. We have studied the cytokine profiles in several pregnancy complications. These included recurrent spontaneous miscarriage, preterm labor, premature rupture of fetal membranes, pregnancy-induced hypertension and intra-uterine fetal growth retardation. In all these complications, the cytokine balance was significantly different compared to gestationally age-matched normal pregnancy.

We aim to use statistical learning techniques to infer and quantify the connection between cytokine profiles and different categories of pregnancy conditions. Using the cytokine data we have previously gathered, we aim to make a statistical predictive model, which will allow classification (or association) of a given set of cytokine levels to one of the pregnancy conditions. This investigation will shed light on to what extent cytokine profiles are related (or can predict) the different pregnancy conditions: If the cytokine levels can predict with high accuracy the pregnancy conditions, then this would imply that the cytokines are an important element of the disease process. If, instead, the cytokine levels only poorly predict the pregnancy conditions, then this would suggest that other factors beyond the cytokines are more significant than just the cytokine levels we have measured. Further, if we can infer a predictive model which works with high accuracy, then this model could be used in clinical settings: If a patient has cytokines level associated to an unhealthy pregnancy, the model could be used to predict which cytokines a clinician should attempt to up/down regulate (and by how much), in order to encourage a normal pregnancy.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 5,900

Total budget: K.D. 5,900

Knowledge and Attitude of Primary Care Physicians towards Palliative Care in Kuwait (P115-13MC-03)

A. Al-Ansari

Ministry of Health

Abstract

Palliative Care (PC) services are still lacking in many countries. In Gulf region, until recently, PC was represented by relatively few specialized hospital-based PC units. In Kuwait, PC services are still in an early stage of development. Despite in most countries, end-of-life care policies aiming at home death, the acute hospital setting remains a common place of final care and death in most countries.

In-depth research regarding the critical role of the Primary care physicians (PCPs) in preventing such hospital admissions at end of life is lacking; however, PCPs are thought to play a pivotal role in providing end-of- life care and in enabling terminally ill patients to die at home.

Many of PCPs try to avoid dealing with them although they are used to be the first line physicians that face those patients either in the primary care clinics or in their homes. The PCPs’ gatekeeper role to hospital services is limited in Kuwait; however, patients or families may autonomously decide to go to a hospital for specific problems without consulting any family physician. The aim of this study was to explore PCPs’ per- 86 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects spectives of how they view palliative care as a whole and how they perceive their own role and its difficulties in managing patients assigned for PC, as well as to assess their knowledge in managing common palliative symptoms.

Cross sectional survey will be performed in primary care clinics of Ministry of Health general hospitals across Kuwait. The approval of the ethical committee of the Ministry of Health will be taken prior to the study. A novel semi-structured, 28-items questionnaire was constructed to explore the self-reported knowledge attitudes, and practices towards PC in patients with advanced cancer. All data manipulation and analysis were performed using the SPSS.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,992

Total budget: K.D. 22,152

Advanced Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaics Research Program (Phase II) (P115-15EE-01)

Y. Abdulraheem

Kuwait University in collaboration with IMEC, Belgium

Abstract

The project comprises of three main parts. The first part builds further on the cell expertise built up in the period 2013-2015. The second part extends towards novel materials and structures beyond conventional silicon based architectures. The third part targets to broaden the focus of research from the cell level to looking in to cell-to-module interfacing and integration. It is anticipated that in next phase investments will be done at KU to expand on the current capabilities to include fabrication of thin film perovskites established at KU. This new emerging material has shown good potential for low-cost PV technologies and can be established and developed at KU, with great potential in placing KU at the forefront of this development.

One end objective of the project is to reach for efficiencies under 1 sun > 30%, by combining a Si high-efficiency bottomcell with a high-bandgap thin-film cell in a 4-terminal configuration. Si high efficiency bottom cell will be based on the IMEC platform developed within the framework of phase (l) of the project. A high bandgap absorber based on perovskite solar cells that will be developed through the proposed project will act as a top-cell structure.

Concerning interfacing of cells with modules, the cooperation will expand the focus of IMEC’s PV program to include PVmodules addressing various aspects of cell-to-module interfacing, including optical, electrical and thermal modeling of module performance under different scenarios. The focus will be on glass-glass modules based on back-contacted Si solar cells. Reliability and compatibility with thinner Si substrates will be investigated to achieve a low-stress solution. The target innovation is the development of advanced in- terconnection technology based on soldering, using a porous back insulator. Use of metal wires woven into strain relieving textile tissues to obtain a low-stress, cost-effective alternative will be tested out.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 639,795

Total budget: K.D. 1,483,995

On Construction of a Certain Maximal Parabolic Subgroup of E6 (K), For Fields K of Characteristic 2 (P115-16SM-01)

A. Alazemi

Kuwait University

Abstract

The analysis of maximal subgroups of exceptional groups goes back to the fundamental work of Dynkin in the project reference no. 8 who determined the maximal connected subgroups of the simple algebraic groups of exceptional type G2, F4, E6, E7 and E8 over an algebraically closed field K of characteristic zero. The local maximal subgroups of the finite exceptional groups of Lie type in the families G2, F4, E6, E7, E8, 2G2, 2F4 and 2E6 were determined in the project reference no. 4. The maximal subgroups of the other families of exceptional groups. 2B2 and 3D4, can be found in the project reference 9.

The purpose of this project is to give a construction of the maximal parabolic subgroup P1 of the algebraic group E6(K), where K is of characteristic 2 and P1 can be described as the stabilizer of a base vector ea of AK, where AK is a 27-dimensional vector space over K. As the technique we are going to use is elementary 87 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects and transparent, it is hoped that the construction itself is so, where it is strongly related to that followed in the project reference no.1.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,500

Total budget: K.D. 13,300

On the Construction of Certain Chevalley-Groups (P115-16SM-02)

S. Aldhafeeri

Public Authority for Applied Education and Training

Abstract

In the project reference no.3, S. Aldhafeeri gave an elementary construction of the Lie-algebras of type E6(K) for fields K of characteristic two. The Lie-algebras are represented as sub algebras of End (AK), where AK is a 27-dimensional vector space over K.

The construction of the compact real form of the Lie-algebras of type E6 was given by R. Wilson in the project reference no. 15. In the project reference no. 4 M. Aschbacher followed a geometric approach to examine the geometry of the 27-dimensional Dickson form (V, F) over arbitrary field F.

The aim of this proposed research is to give an explicit construction of the Lie algebra F4(q) as a sub-Lie-algebra of E6 and the corresponding Chevalley groups E6(q),

F4(q) and 2E6(q), q is a power of 2. The importance of this proposed research comes from the following:

• This project could lead to construct by hand the triple cover of the sporadic simple groupFi22 as a subgroup of the classical modular Lie-algebra of type E6.

• A team of postdocs and teaching assistants will be involved in the computations needed for the construction and collection of the material (papers) related to the project; this will surely help them to get firsthand experience in research in Mathematics.

• The Chevalley groups of exceptional type E6(q), and its twisted versions are less well-known; hence, the study of the above groups via their action on the 27-dimensional module could enhance our studying for this type of groups.

At certain stages of the project, consultation with Professor R. Curtis at Birmingham University and Profes- sor Yuriy Drozd at National Academy of Sciences, Kiev-Ukraine is necessary in this regard.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 14,300

Total budget: K.D. 26,000

The Impact of Regulatory Policies on Innovation: A Comparison between GCC and OECD Countries (P115-17IC-01)

K. Elmawazini

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

This study will examine the impact of various regulations on innovation, as measured by R&D intensity (business spending on R&D as a share of GDP), by employing cross-country data on GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) and OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries between 1991 and 2012. It will consider the impact of anti-trust laws, intellectual property rights regulations, labor market regulations, administrative regulations and inward investment regulations on R&D intensity. It will provide a theoretical framework analyzing the effects of Competition Policy and Intellectual Property Rights policy in stimulating investments in R&D, and whether they are complements or substitutes. Finally, it will draw policy recommendations as what is the optimal policy mix in order to increase investments in innovation across countries, particularly GCC countries.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 7,150

Total budget: K.D. 7,150

88 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Capital Budgeting Practices by Companies Listed on Kuwait Stock Exchange (P115-17IF-02)

A. Al-Mutairi

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

This study aims at exploring the use of capital budgeting techniques in selecting investment projects by manufacturing and services companies listed on Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE). To reach this aim, a questionnaire will be distributed to managers of manufacturing and services companies listed on KSE.

It is expected that manufacturing and services companies use various capital budgeting techniques when selecting investment projects and that Payback Period (PP) is the most used technique while the Net Pres- ent Value (NPV) is the least used technique. It is also expected that unavailability of necessary data and information are the main obstacles undermining the use of capital budgeting techniques by manufacturing and services companies.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 5,800

Total budget: K.D. 6,300

Assessment of Change Practices in SME’s Funded by the Government in Kuwait (P115-17IM-03)

N. Alyaseen

Kuwait Economic Society

Abstract

It is clear that the SME’s success and failure has received considerable attention by scholars. Yet few researches studied the SME’s funded by the government in Kuwait. This study is designed to bridge this gap and to contribute to the literature by developing a framework to assess and classify change processes within SME’s in Kuwait. Then a report will be produced recommending best practice, and to develop a framework to assess and classify change within SME’s funded by the government in Kuwait. SME’s will benefit from the outcomes to enable them to adapt successfully to external change. Also, this research will provide SME sector with a written reference illustrating the current situation and an advisory platform for going forward.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 5,200

Total budget: K.D. 5,200

Development of an On-Line Dyslexia Test in Arabic (P115-18EO-01)

G. Al-Naqi

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Throughout the last seven years, the Department of Advanced Systems (DAS) at the Kuwait Institute for Sci- entific Research (KISR) has been trying with full devotion to give people with dyslexia tools to facilitate functioning and living in harmony with the world, the way the rest of society can. Dyslexia is a language-based dif- ficulty in which a person has specific trouble with reading, writing and spelling. The motivation to overcome the obstacles faced by dyslexics in Kuwait has been a major interest for DAS. At Kuwait University (KU), the process of attaining an education has been hindered for some students because of learning difficulties. Accordingly, KU approached the Center for Child Evaluation and Teaching (CCET) for help in overcoming this obstacle. A request was presented to DAS by CCET to provide them with an on-line Arabic test for determining whether or not a user is dyslexic and, if dyslexic, the degree of the dyslexia.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,540

Total budget: K.D. 23,940

89 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Enhancing Scientific Literacy and English Language Proficiency of Pub- lic High School Students in Kuwait through Science-Based Writing Projects (P115-19TO-02) M. Tryzna Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract As part of its national development plan, the Ministry of Education in Kuwait has focused in recent years on enhancing educational outcomes in the country. The strategy has been to revamp the curricula, update instructional materials, enhance professional development for teachers, introduce technology at early stages of education, and increase the number of bilingual schools. The most recent initiative of the Ministry has been to create Model Schools, which maintain both the Arabic heritage and provide coursework in English, creating better opportunities for the Kuwaiti students in terms English skills and knowledge in sciences and social studies. Due to the relatively recent changes in the respective areas of education, little is known about the impact these changes made on educational outcomes and classroom practices. The present project attempts to enhance the progress towards the national educational goals by addressing both the development of scientific literacy as well as English proficiency among government high school students in Kuwait. The study is divided into three stages, with interrelated goals and data-collection instruments designed to provide a comprehensive measurement of the study’s central concepts. Stage one evaluates the current state of high school students’ science literacy in conjunction with their English proficiency, to identify the attainment level and critical gaps. Stage two is an intervention stage enhancing the students’ scientific literacy and English language skills. The activities are designed to foster the development of reading comprehension, writing skills, vocabulary, as well as cognitive and rhetorical strategies crucial for science literacy. Stage three, a post-test stage, first assesses the gains in scientific literacy and in English proficiency. Second, the teachers’ perspectives on the intervention stage will be measured using semi-structured interviews. The combined data cover both deductive and inductive approaches, quantitative and qualitative methodologies, and span two crucial educational fields of national interest.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,900

Total budget: K.D. 11,800

Learners’ Motivation in the GCC to Study French as a Foreign Language: Cul- tural, Economic and Social Factors (P115-19TT-01) M. Hosny Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract Motivation is one of the most important factors driving learning; it represents one of the most complex variables used to explain individual differences in learning. Numerous studies have shown that motivation is positively linked to success in learning and achievement. This is particularly true for language learning because of the time and effort invested in the process.

This research aims to investigate the factors affecting French learners’ motivation in the GCC. The study will examine the role of the economic and social factors in stimulating learners’ motivation, it will also explore the impact of the cultural context in these countries and the prevalent attitude toward France on the students’ choice of learning French.

The study will focus on learners in a non-compulsory setting. The participant will be adult learners enrolled in French language and cultural institutes (e.g. French Institute, Alliance Francaise in Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE and Qatar) or Continuing Education centers (e.g. Community Service and Continuing Education Center of Kuwait University, Berlitz in Dubai, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar). A self-administered questionnaire is developed to investigate the factors influencing French language learners’ motivation in Kuwait and to assess the non-linguistic aspects of the process.

This research would be helpful to understand the factors that influence students’ motivation to learn a foreign language. Such understanding would enable language instructors and teachers to enhance students’ learning capacity. Moreover, it would be beneficial for universities, language institutes and continuing education centers to have a better understanding of the motives and needs of students and tailor language programs accordingly. This might reduce the number of students who do not complete their courses and provide students with a productive, enjoyable experience.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 3,400

Total budget: K.D. 3,400 90 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Improving Student Achievement and Behavior with Professional Development Learning Communities in a Kuwaiti Public School (P115-19TT-02)

J. Testerman

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

Ratings by Ministry of Education (MOE) officers of the quality of Kuwait’s teacher preparation programs and the quality of teachers graduating from these programs indicate a need for improved teacher performance. The majority of the MOE officers (66.7%) gave low ratings for the programs and 75.5% of them rate the quality of teachers from these programs as low (NIE, 2012). The National Institute of Education (NIE), Singapore report placed strong emphasis on professional development of teachers and school leaders. It was strongly recommended that the MOE develop a scheme to reward consistent participation in professional upgrading. The purpose of this study is to implement a professional development series in a public high school English program with the intended outcomes to create a community of teachers who consistently collaborate to improve student learning, discipline and school climate. Teachers’ opinions on PD topics will be solicited and training will be provided in weekly staff meetings.

Gradually, trainers will provide teachers with the expertise to create their own learning communities to continue the school improvement process. The effects of this staff development model will be documented in measures of student English achievement and discipline. The effects of the year-long professional development process on school climate will also be assessed through pre and post-administrations of the School Attitude Assessment Survey-Revised (2002). Qualitative data in the form of teacher, supervisor and student interviews and focus group sessions will be gathered and analyzed in order to facilitate future implementation of successful practices in more of Kuwait’s public schools.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,950

Total budget: K.D. 6,950

A Study to Establish Shelters for Women and Children who are Victims of Vio- lence and to Formulate Relevant Laws (P115-51OS-01)

G. Al-Ghanem

Women’s Cultural and Social Society

Abstract

The term violence against women was initiated in the literature of the United Nations since the Nairobi conference in 1985, and later on, the organization devoted a special declaration in 1993. Then came the emphasis on the need to eliminate violence in the recommendations of the Beijing conference in 1995, which allocated a special item in the platform of action.

The term violence against women means any act of gender-based violence, which is likely to result in any sexual or psychological harm, or suffering of women including threats to carry out acts of inappropriate or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in their private lives.

The attention to the issue of violence against women in Kuwait began at late stage to around early 2000. The focus of civil society organizations on the phenomenon of violence as a social problem which needed to be resolved was coupled with the escalation of violence in Kuwait.

Statistics issued (the first of its kind) by the Ministry of Justice in 2010 showed that the average registered violence and assault cases during the ten years covered by the study (2000 - 2009) amounted to 368 cases in a year. In other words, an average of approximately one case of arrack daily against women, thus an indication of the average height of violence and abuse cases in the last four years of the study.

Consequently, such a case study became a phenomenon that cannot be tolerated, which inspired the need for future studies and the approved rules to address them. Above all, the Women ‘s Cultural & Social Soci- ety had a pioneering role in adopting this topic through continued support for the implementation of three stages of WRACATI project (promoting women’s rights & legal empowerment).

The outcome of WRACATI project stated a recommendation, which serves the reality of women in the State of Kuwait. Furthermore, the WCSS embraced the most important obstacles and problems facing women and violations of violence against them in different state institutions, despite the fact that there are legal laws to ensure equality and protection.

91 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

The WCSS considered within its commitment to ensure taking one of the recommendations of WRACATI project which is the study of violence against women. Namely, “the establishment of shelters for battered women” for the rehabilitation and empowerment of women.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 55,900 Total budget: K.D. 55,900

Efficacy of Yttrium-90 Time-of-Flight PET/CT in Post Radioembolization Im- aging of Microsphere Biodistribution in Radiosynovectomy (P115-93MN-02) M. Masoomi Ministry of Health

Abstract Application of PET/CT imaging following 90Y radiation synovectomy is feasible and would be a new approach in further delineating the location of the activity seen on bremsstrahlung imaging. This technique may also help to predict treatment response or potential local complications. Yttrium-90 is a pure beta emitter with Maximum energy 2.27 MeV and Mean energy 0.935 MeV. It has average soft-tissue range of 3.6 mm and the physical half-life of 2.7 days. Positron emission tomography with integrated computed tomography (PET/CT) represents a technological leap from 90Y bremsstrahlung SPECT/CT, both qualitatively and quantitatively, allowing direct imaging of 90Y microspheres. Although 90Y is predominantly a 13-emitter, coincidence imaging of 90Y is possible because of a minor decay branch to the O+ first excited state of zirconium90 followed -+ internal pair production at a very low branching ratio of 31.86 ± 0.47 x 10-6 . However, the clinical application of 90Y PET/CT has been fraught with challenges. From a clinical standpoint, 90Y PET provides a superior post infusion evaluation of treatment technical success owing to its improved resolution. Absorbed dose maps generated from quantitative PET data can be used to predict treatment efficacy and manage patient follow up. For patients who receive multiple treatments, this information can also be used to provide patient-specific treatment planning for successive therapies, potentially improving response. The broad utilization of 90Y PET-CT has the potential to provide a wealth of dose-response information, which may lead to the development of improved radioembolization treatment planning models in the future. Furthermore, after radiation synovectomy and microsphere treatment a delayed PET-CT acquisition at 24 h can assist to investigate potential extra- articular radiotracer ex- travasation. As such, preliminary pilot phantom study will be extremely informative and valuable to establish a platform to instigate the feasibility of the proposed technique in the in-vivo applications.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,950 Total budget: K.D. 7,450

Graduate Student Research Grant The ‘Arab House’: Cinematic Representation vs Social Reality (P114-61EA-01) S. AlMubaraki University of California, Berkeley, U.S.A

Abstract The idea of the ‘Arab House’ was born out of orientalism, and appeared as a discourse in the 19th century, after the invasion of Egypt by Napoleon Bonaparte. By the 20th century, a larger orientalist inquisition about the ‘Islamic city’ emerged, however no academic framework contested the assumptions formed around the invented ‘Arab House’. By the 1950’s and 1960’s, with the end of colonialism in many parts of the Middle East, Arab nationalists adopted these orientalist notions to create a uniform regional identity and a unique Arab individuality (one they felt they did not have). This ‘imagined Arab community’ was achieved by circulating and distributing these orientalists ‘findings’ through mass media (this included print-media but more particularly cinema - the leading medium of the 20th century). The dissertation will thus question the meaning of the ‘Arab House’ as it appeared in orientalist discourses, visual representations, and physical form in a number of cities in the Arab World. Through this examination the regional notion of the ‘Arab House’ will be questioned through a comparison of the cinematic ‘Arab House’, the physical ‘Arab House’ and the social relations that operated within the ‘Arab House’ over the period of colonialism and high nationalism

KFAS contribution: US$ 33,537 Total budget: US$ 65,550 92 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Is Prolonged Use of Ureteral Access Sheath Safe? (P114-63MY-01)

H. Alenezi

University of Western Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Flexible Ureteroscopy (fURS) is a fast growing treatment modality for upper urinary tract stones with continuously increasing scope of indications. Some authors reported fURS for treatment of large renal stones well above 2 cm in size, which certainly prolong the operative time. During fURS, many surgeons adopt the insertion of Ureteral Access Sheath (UAS) for a number of confirmed and presumed advantages. However, the safety of using UAS and its safe indwelling-time limit have not been completely determined. Herein, we aim to study the effect of UAS prolonged use on pig’s ureters.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 15,780

Total budget: K.D. 15,780

Assessment of the Effect of Artificial Sweeteners on Gut Microbiota and Glu- cose Metabolism (P115-63MM-01)

S. Ahmad

University of Manitoba, Canada

Abstract

Non-caloric artificial sweeteners (NAS) have grown very popular since their introduction to the market. Currently, there are six NASs approved as “table-top sweeteners” by Health Canada, including acesulfame potassium, aspartame, erythritol, neotame, steviol glycosides, and sucralose. The NASs under review in this project are sucralose and aspartame, which are frequently used in Canada and Kuwait. Recent research has been focused on illuminating the negative health effects of NASs. For example, consumption of the NAS saccharin in mouse models reportedly induces glucose intolerance by altering the microbial composition of the gut (referred to as “gut microbiota dysbiosis”). The gut microbiota may have the ability to metabolize NASs into short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), which hold a wide range of consequences including the potential to shift the normal bacterial balance, potentially leading to alterations in glucose metabolism. Although there has been a good deal of recent research conducted on the gut microbiome, there is a research gap in that there have been no studies regarding the effects of the NASs sucralose and aspartame on its composition and function. In the current study, our aim is to quantify these effects. This study aims to determine the effect of sucralose and aspartame consumption on gut microbiota composition, diversity, and community structure, and to determine whether NAS-associated changes in glucose metabolism are mediated by gut microbiota dysbiosis induced through sucralose and aspartame consumption. Forty-four (young, healthy, non-pregnant, and non-diabetic) participants will be selected, between the ages of 20-30 years old, with a BMI of 20-25 (i.e. normal weight), and a fasting blood glucose (FBG) < 5.7 mmol/L. They will undertake two-week treatment diets for both sweeteners, separated by washout periods and sample collections in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the estimated daily intake (EDI) for aspartame is 4.1 mg/kg body weight/day, while that for sucralose is 2.0 mg/ kg body weight/day. The amount consumed by each participant will be determined individually, in order to reach the 90th percentile of the EDI. Fecal and blood samples will be analyzed for SCFAs and microbiome, and glucose, insulin, glucagon, incretins, and leptin, respectively.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 10,000

Total budget: K.D. 10,000

Expression and Role of miRNA in Thyroid Cancer (P115-63MM-02)

I. Jahanbani

Kuwait University

Abstract

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are endogenous noncoding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression by binding to specific mRNA targets and blocking their translation. miRNAs play important roles in many biological process, including cell proliferation, differentiation and, death. They exert their functional role by regulating diverse cellular activities such as signal transduction, immune response, and neurotransmitter synthesis.

93 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

Deregulation of miRNA expression has been reported to contribute in the pathogenesis of several diseases, especially cancer. Increasing rate of the thyroid cancer incidence, as well as, absence of non-invasive reliable diagnostic method justify the need to search for biomarkers with diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic potential. miRNAs with their important regulatory role can be the good candidate. The availability of miRNAs in circulation takes the idea of miRNAs as cancer biomarkers to a higher dimension. These circulating miRNAs can be the ideal way towards noninvasive and more cost-effective testing. In this project, we aim at establishing a miRNA signature that will direct the diagnosis and prognosis of PTC patients in Kuwait. This will be done by profiling miRNAs in circulation and thyroid tissue of thyroid cancer patients. The functional role of the differentially expressed miRNA will be analyzed by studying different signaling transduction pathways in primary thyroid cultured cells before and after inhibition or expression of the specific miRNA. We believe that identification and functional characterization of miRNAs will have an important clinical impact on thyroid cancer patient management and the development of therapeutic targets.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 10,000

Total budget: K.D. 10,000

Methane Emission in Kuwait and their Isotopic Signature (P115-64SC-01)

A. Alshalan

Royal Holloway University of London, U.K

Abstract

Sources responsible for methane plumes can be identified from their carbon isotopic composition. Different source types are characterized by distinct δ 13C signatures. The dominant sources of methane in Kuwait, as suggested by inventories, are leaks from gas flaring and distribution ≈( 75%) and landfills ≈( 25%), but there are likely additional smaller emissions from sewage and other wastewater treatment and from motor vehicles. This project will identify the location of the main potential methane sources and accessibility close to their perimeters on public roads both upwind and downwind. Samples will be collected at these sites when there is a consistent steady wind from the predominant NW wind direction, by filling 3-litre Tedlar bags using a small diaphragm pump. These will be measured at RHUL to give an isotopic signature for each source. The pilot study will be used to identify the most important and most accessible sources for further investigation with the Picarro mobile system G2301 CRDS (Cavity Ring-Down Spectrometer). This will aid understanding of methane emissions in Kuwait and the wider influence of methane emission dispersal across the Mid- dle-East and Gulf areas. Data gathered from the spatial survey will be mapped using GIS and modelled to understand plume dispersion.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,310

Total budget: K.D. 9,820

Developing an Integrated Strategy for the Assessment of Hazardous Substanc- es in Kuwait’s Marine Environment (P115-64SE-01)

H. Alsarawi

Plymouth University, U.K

Abstract

Kuwait is undergoing rapid economic growth involving substantial construction along its coastal shores and marine environment. Many of the activities in the region are associated with the oil industry, which can pollute the shores leading to contamination from oil residues, tar balls and trace metals. About 2 million bar- rels of oil are spilled annually from routine discharges into the Gulf, which derives mainly from dirty ballast waters and tank washing. The focus of this PhD program is to investigate the chemical contaminant sources in Kuwait Bay and to study the impact these diffuse and point discharges of pollutants have on a range of resident marine species. This will be achieved through a literature review to establish what historic data is available and novel research, using passive samples to establish an inventory of chemicals being discharged into Kuwait Bay and its surrounding coastal waters. Chemical analysis of water samples will be supported with further novel research into the potential associated impacts of exposure on a range of marine species. This will allow a fully integrated health assessment of Kuwait Bay to be undertaken and will lead to recommendations outlining the future monitoring and remediation requirements for the Bay. The main themes of the research include:

94 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Research Grant | New Projects

• Review paper: Hazardous substances in Kuwait marine environment

• Field survey: Inventory of emerging contaminant issues in Kuwait Bay

• Chemical and biological effects monitoring: Case study of Kuwait Bay looking at a number of trophic levels from bacteria to vertebrate models

• ntegrated assessment of chemical and biological effects data

• Conclusions and recommendations: Future monitoring requirements for Kuwait’s marine environment.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,800

Total budget: K.D. 15,750

Software Defined Secure Ad Hoc Wireless Networks (P115-65EO-01)

M. Alqallaf

Wright State University, U.S.A

Abstract

Due to the decentralized nature of mobile ad hoc wireless networks, mobility of nodes, and resource constraints, maintaining security in mobile ad hoc wireless networks poses significant challenges and may result in low performance and high overhead. Yet, security provisioning in mobile ad hoc wireless networks is an important issue for most practical applications.

Recent developments in software defined networking shed new light on how to control and manage an ad hoc wireless network. Given the wide deployment and availability of heterogeneous wireless technologies, the control and management of ad hoc wireless networks with the new software defined networking paradigm offered more flexibility and opportunities to deal with trust and security issues and to enable new features and services. However, not much research has been conducted in this area. Many unanswered questions exist. For example, how should SDN concepts be adapted to suit the characteristics of unstructured wireless networks, such as, mobile ad hoc wireless networks?

The objective of this dissertation work is to provide better network architecture and mechanisms to support security and trust management in software defined wireless ad hoc networks. The project team proposes, study and evaluates design choices for software defined mobile ad hoc wireless networks. Specifically, the dissertation will study the following problems:

• Propose, study, and evaluate software defined network architecture for collaborative secure ad hoc wireless networking.

• Propose and study mechanisms for establishing trust among participating mobile devices in SDN mobile ad hoc wireless networks to enable better security provisioning.

• Propose and study intrusion detection mechanisms built on top of SDN mobile ad hoc wireless networks.

The project team has completed work on design options of SDN architecture for collaborative secure mobile ad hoc wireless networks and the design of initial trust establishment approaches. The project team plan to conduct extensive software based simulation to evaluate the design options of SDN architecture for collaborative secure mobile ad hoc wireless networks, trust establishment mechanism, and conduct a series of research work on intrusion detection mechanisms built on top of SDN mobile ad hoc wireless networks. To effectively conduct the proposed simulation studies of SDN based mobile ad-hoc wireless networks, EstiNet software, available as commercial software, is proposed to be used for our simulation studies. The EstiNet software requires significant customization by the vendor only due to source code restrictions. This application requests funds to acquire hardware and customized EstiNet simulation software that is critical for successfully completing the proposed research work.

KFAS contribution: US$ 30,000

Total budget: US$ 30,000

95 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Grant Research | New Projects

The Role of Hospital Alliances on Supply Chain Integration and Performance (P115-67IM-01)

Y. Abdulsalam

Arizona State University, USA

Abstract

The healthcare industry is characterized by a complex supply chain due to a large proliferation of products, a wide scope of health services and variety of approaches to delivering healthcare solutions. Despite the fact that supply chain expenses form the second largest expense after labor costs, there have been limited improvements in efficiency and cost management over the years. One strategy to control healthcare supply chain and operating costs is for hospitals to form multi-hospital alliance networks, generally referred to as healthcare systems. Healthcare systems vary greatly in terms of their structures and characteristics such as size, degree of centralization, standardization, and resource sharing. This naturally leads the heterogeneous healthcare systems to having varying degrees of success and challenges. This study aims to explore the extent to which the assimilation of hospitals into healthcare systems can lead to improved supply chain performance for hospitals in that system. Both hospital-level factors and system-level factors will be examined to understand contributors to supply chain performance, and how they do so over time.

The research intends to use data from the American Hospital Association, which annually tracks data for over 6,000 hospitals. Multi-level and longitudinal regression modeling frameworks will be applied to this data, to statistically test relationships. The results of this research will extend the supply chain management literature and healthcare management, in theories of organizational structure, transaction cost economics and supply chain integration. Furthermore, the insights from this study can inform healthcare decision-makers about effective strategies and factors that are conducive to healthcare supply chain performance.

KFAS contribution: US$ 14,900

Total budget: US$ 14,900

96 Environment Program

Completed Projects 13 Ongoing Projects 12 New Projects 20

97 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Completed Projects

Strategic Research Thrusts Catalyze Environmental Sustainability

KFAS-funded multi-phased, multi-dimensional mega projects reported on successfully tracing and indexing indoor and outdoor pollutants, which was expected to have significant implications on the quality of air, water, plant and human life. Intensive field studies and predictive modeling set the national baseline data on crucial information pertaining to marine and coastal environments. Sci- entists successfully investigated in detail the composition of hydrocarbons in Kuwait Bay and the atmospheric concentrations of pollutants within the six governorates of the State of Kuwait, while proposing relevant mitigation methods to address the prevalent challenges. Research under the ‘Kuwait Greenery Projects’ concentrated on native flora and plant survival in Kuwait’s arid climatic conditions, as well as on toxicity levels of pollutants in indigenous edible plants. While addressing a major challenge - phytoremediation of oil-contaminated soil, work was underway to establish the necessary protocols for micro-propagation and optimized tissue culture.

Researchers determined the toxicity levels in Kuwait’s territorial waters and the Arabian Gulf in order to assess the risk it poses to native fish species. Scientific probe into native fishery trends included a survey of the community composition of the pearl oyster and proposal for relevant management of indigenous fishery stock.

Efforts were ongoing to promote eco-literacy in schools for sustainable living. Projects were launched with the underlying thrust of conserving native marine and desert eco systems, while work continued on a feasibility plan for setting up a National Gene Bank and Cleaner Production Center. Large-scale vegetation programs were mobilized in the State, which were directed towards determining suitable planting techniques and screening of salinity tolerance traits of native plant species for effective propagation of greenery in the country.

A series of mega projects focused on eco-hydro-geomorphological and vegetation modeling, as well as climate simulations under the umbrella of a mega project, “Kuwait Climate, Water and Vegetation” for the purpose of developing suitable mechanisms for vegetation in arid regions. The calibration and validation of the satellite, SMAP, jointly launched by KU and NASA, was undertaken this year to retrieve critical soil moisture data for relevant application in environmental modeling.

Preparations were underway to map out the impacts or threats of natural hazards (Tsunami, earthquakes) along Kuwaiti coastline, in view of historical events and documented data. Additionally, an integrated monitoring system of marine radioactivity was developed to detect any early warning signals for the region. A study of waste/virgin blends of polymers in Kuwait was the first step in developing mechanical recycling schemes in Kuwait for plastic films. Concerted efforts were initiated by the public and private and sectors in public domains of development, such as urbanization, public health, preparation of a restoration plan and a long-term environmental conservation plan for local vegetation, flora and fauna.

98 Completed Projects

A Comprehensive Management Strategy for Long-Term Sustainability of Ku- wait’s Shrimp Stocks. (2006-1207-15)

H. Al-Foudari, J. Bishop, W. Chen, A. Alsaffar, T. Al-Said, A. Al-Baz, A. Ben Hassan

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, In collaboration with Public Authority of Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources

Abstract

Kuwait›s fisheries land, on average, about 2,000 tons of shrimp annually. Although this average has changed little over the past two decades, the fishery has changed substantially. About 40% of the landings are cap- tured outside Kuwait›s territorial waters, where no regulations are enforced. The relationship between shrimp stocks in international waters and Kuwait›s waters is unknown. Kuwait’s shrimping fleet formerly consisted of 35 industrial trawlers and 28 dhow boats licensed to trawl. Only eight industrial trawlers are currently active; the others traded for dhow boats at a rate of two industrial trawlers for three dhows. Historically, the catch- per-unit-effort (CPUE) was based on the United Fisheries of Kuwait›s (UFK›s) catch per boat-day. With the change in fleet composition, however, the UFK baseline has changed. The objectives of this project were to investigate and identify shrimp stocks in international waters and determine their interaction with stocks in Kuwait’s territorial waters; to develop a more realistic and effective model to estimate stock size, biomass, maximum sustainable yield (MSY), maximum economic yield (MEY), and corresponding fishing effort; and to predict trends of biomass, recruitment, and catches under different levels of fishing effort. Tagging studies found that there was some exchange between shrimp in international waters and Kuwait waters. Of 5,758 shrimp tagged and released (3,534 in Kuwait›s waters and 2,224 in international waters), 224 shrimp were recaptured. Of this number, 11 released in international waters were recaptured from Kuwait›s waters, and 46 released in Kuwait›s waters were recaptured from international waters. Comparisons among catch rates of one industrial trawler, three different dhow boats, and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research›s (KISR) research vessel showed significant differences among vessels. Results showed that the industrial trawler (with two nets) was equivalent to 1.28 to 1.68 dhow boats, depending on net configuration and engine power, and 1.93 research vessels. The predictive model showed an MSY of 2,011 t with a fishing effort of 7,375 boat-days, with an opening date set as 1 September and closing date at 31 December. Simulations showed an increase in MSY if the shrimping season opened later or closed earlier. Optimal MSY would start on 1 October and close on 30 November. MEY could be obtained at an effort of 5,140 boat-days with very little decline in catch. Both recruitment and biomass would greatly increase if the fishing effort were reduced to 3,000 boat-days. For the long-term strategy, it is recommended that the shrimping effort be reduced to 5,000 boat-days with the season starting later than 1 September and closing earlier than 31 December.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 126,771

Total budget: K.D. 376,294

99 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Completed Projects

Metal Acquisition by Marine Algae and their Associated Bacteria in the Kuwait Coastal Seawater (2009-1207-03)

D. Al-Wahaib

Kuwait University

Abstract

The isolation, purification and characterization of siderophores-like compounds isolated from marine bacteria in association with phytoplankton were made. A total of 91 bacteria were isolated, identified and grouped. This accomplishment is considered original and the first of its kind in the region of the Arabian Gulf. All of the isolated bacteria were screened for siderophores production. The characterizations of the isolated siderophores were made using NMR and MS. The results indicate that the isolated siderophores may be unique for this region of the world. The research project established an original field in Kuwait and in the GCC region and provided the essential requirements to proceed in obtaining data and information that are of great importance to understand metal acquisition by marine bacteria in association with algal and the role of marine bacteria in the growth of harmful algal. Also, it offers an environmental base line that can be used in the assessment of future marine problems.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 112,280

Total budget: K.D. 112,280

Assessment of Maid Stock (Liza Klunzingeri) in Kuwait Waters (2010-1207-02)

A. H. Alsaffar, W. Chen, T. Dashti, S. Al-Jazzaf, A. Taqi, H. A. Husain, A. K. Bin Hassan, A. Al-Mosawi, A. Al-Alawi and S. Rajab

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Maid (Liza klunzingeri) is an important commercial fish species in Kuwait. The stock status of maid was investigated using several methods, including fish market surveys, interviews with fishermen and mid-water trawl, gillnet, and nursery ground surveys. The market surveys and interviews with fishermen showed a good season for 2013 with an estimated total catch of 455 t, which was much higher than the reported landings of 2012 (78 t). Mid-water trawling had very low catch rates with most of the maid occurring in Kuwait Bay and south of Failaka Island during winter from December through February. Subsequent gillnet surveys also caught very few maid, probably due to the low abundance in Kuwait waters during the survey period. Nurs- ery ground surveys using beach seines showed wide range distribution of maid juveniles from Kuwait Bay to Kuwait’s southern coastal waters with highest catches from April and May. Based on ovarian development, spawning of maid peaked from November through February, with average fecundity of 73,200±17,800 eggs per fish. The growth of maid adult follows a von Bertalanffy equation while the juvenile follows a Logistic equation . The estimated maximum sustainable yield (MSY) is 600 t. The average landing of the past ten years was only 201 t, much lower than that of the 1990s (610 t) and the estimated MSY, indicating possible overfishing for this species. However, other factors such as reduced discharge of Shatt Al-Arab and the large-scale fish kill event in 2001 may also have affected the abundance and landings of maid. For a precau- tionary approach, it is recommended that the maximum annual landings should not exceed 75% (450 t) of our estimated MSY (600 t) to maintain sustainable maid abundance and landings.

Publication:

Alsaffar, A. bin Hassan, T. Dashti, A. Taqi, A. Al-mousawy, A. Al alawi. The Importance of the Intertidal Area for the Mullet Liza Klunzingeri. Presented at the 2nd International Conference on Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment in The Indian Ocean 24-26 February 2015, Oman

KFAS contribution: K.D. 48,183

Total budget: K.D. 125,535

100 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Completed Projects

Pre-commercial Scale Production of Dunaliella Salina: Induction and Extrac- tion of β-Carotene (2011-1207-03) T. Saleh Abu-Rezq, M. Al-Roumi, N. Ahmed and A. Nasseb

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The objective of this report was to develop pre-commercial production of Dunaliella salina, which can be used in medicine or as food additives, aiming for -carotene extraction under Kuwait›s conditions.

Results from Task 2 showed that the growth was higher (p<0.05) in low salinity 45 psu vs. high salinity 80 psu. Temperature of 2 1.5 to 24.0°C, salinity at 45 to 77 psu and a light intensity of 87.4±7.19x 103 lux gave the highest cell count of 1.44 x 106±029 cells ml-1 on day 19. Meanwhile, at temperature of 31.0 to 44.0°, salinity of 45 to 320 psu, and light intensity at 97.4±9.82 x 103 lux, the highest cell count achieved was 0.78x106±0.03 cells ml-1 on day 17.

Results obtained using 2-m3 outdoor fiberglass tanks showed that the highest cell count on day 17 was 0.78 x 10°±0.03 cells ml1, at temperature 20 to 24°C, and light intensity of 83.67±5.90 x 103 lux.

Results obtained from indoor 24-rn raceways showed that the highest cell count on day 17 was 0.19 x106±0.08 cells ml-1 when temperature was at 14 to 16°C, and light intensity at 37.33±9.16 x 103 lux.

Results from Task 3 showed that the highest cell density when initial salinity was at 80 psu was observed on days 14 to 17 of the experimental period (0.67 to 0.73 x 106 cells ml-1 where temperature and salinity varied from 36.0 to 43.0°C and 196 to 238 psu, respectively). Change in color from green to brown started at day 1.7, which is an indication of β-carotene production. On the other hand, when initial salinity used was at 175 psu the change in color was observed on days 7 to 8 of the experimental period.

Positive results obtained from Task 4 indicated that using 1 to 5% freshwater for D. salina cells flocculation is the cheapest and the most practical method. The amount of -carotene obtained during this study (l9.13 to 180.0 pg/cell) is within the range reported internationally by other scientists. Due to the success and encouraging results obtained using outdoor raceways, it is highly recommended to go further in cooperation with pharmaceutical companies for commercial, -carotene extraction.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 56,705

Total budget: K.D. 85,688

Properties of Mineral Dust in Kuwait’s Atmosphere (2011-1401-01)

I. Sabbah,

Public Authority for Applied Education and Training

Abstract

We study the eight dust storms that hit Kuwait in 2014. The attenuated backscattering coefficient and the vertical profiles of aerosol extinction coefficient have been computed for several events. We also calculated the planetary boundary layer during 19-28 June, 2014 and compared with the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Or- thogonal Polarization (CALIOP) profiles of the aerosol extinction coefficient for one event.

The Mass back trajectories have been calculated using Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Tra- jectory (HYSPLIT) model for several events. We also compare Lidar Ratio (LR) values retrieved from our Micro-Pulse Lidar (MPL) with that retrieved from MPL located at Canary Islands affected with Saharan dust. These results can be useful for retrieving Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) from Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infra- red Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) observations.

Publication:

Sabbah I, Arifhodzic N, Al-Ahmad MS, Al-Enizi A, Al-Haddad A, et al. Influence of Air Quality Conditions on Asthmatic Patient Visits in Kuwait; Journal of Allergy & Therapy; 5:197; 2014.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 76,900

Total budget: K.D. 122,180

101 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Completed Projects

Performance Evaluation of Gliricidia Sepium for its Potential Use in Kuwait’s Landscape (2012-1207-03)

H. Al-Zalzaleh, G. Dcruz, D. Awadh

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

An evaluation trial had been carried out to study the adaptability of G. sepium under the arid climatic conditions of Kuwait and also to determine the suitability of interplanting of G. sepium with Conocarpus. A field study with 22 provenances was carried out in a randomized block design (RBD) and the results showed significant differences between them with Retalhuleu having recorded significantly ‘higher’ plant height (153 cm), canopy cover (138 cm), and stem thickness (43 mm). In the interplanting study, two species and three spacing treatments were arranged in a randomized block design with three replications. However, despite the significant difference between the treatments, no significant difference (p<0.05) was observed in relative plant growth characteristics between the species. The plant growth under low density planting of 3 m x 1 m recorded higher values for plant height (79.46 and 105.23 cm), canopy area (64.3 and 125.17cm), collar diameter (22.1 and 28.12 mm), and leaf area (4.54 and 23.33 cm2) for G. sepium and Conocarpus sp, respectively. Ten provenances were subjected to four irrigation treatments in a third study. Results showed highly significant differences among the provenances and the relative plant height was more under moderate water stress (75% irrigation) but the stem thickness was more in 50% and 75% irrigation levels. The high survival percentage of plants with increased growth rates in the evaluation study suggests that they are well adapted to the ecology of the arid areas. The clear trend of distinctive plant growth in 3 m x 1 m spacing suggests that the plant growth is negatively correlated with plant density. From the results of the irrigation studies, it is evident that the provenances are envisaged not to be affected by deficit water regimes.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 13,380

Total budget: K.D. 39,000

Spatial and Temporal Variations in the Atmospheric Concentrations of the Newly Listed Chemicals in the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (2012-1401-02)

B. Gevao, M. Porcelli and M. Al-Bahloul

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The primary goal of the current study is to generate spatial and temporal atmospheric concentration data on the newly listed POPs in Annexes A, B, and C of the SC prior to 2010 and some of the POPs listed previously, with the aim of understanding their environmental behavior and to support Kuwait’s effort in meeting its treaty obligations. This was achieved by collecting fortnightly air samples at three locations between March 2013 and March 2014. Diurnal fluctuations in the atmospheric concentrations of these chemicals were investigated by serially collected passive samplers at six locations in six-hourly integrated samples over four campaigns lasting between three and five days. To understand the spatial distribution of these compounds across Kuwait, a more elaborate passive sampling campaign was carried out by collecting passive samples quarterly at 15 locations across Kuwait for over a year. The more volatile precursors to perfluororinated compounds were measured using sorbent-impregnated passive samplers deployed at six locations.

In general, the concentrations of POPs, except DDTs, measured at the urban locations were higher than the remote site in line with literature predictions. The most abundant compound class in the samples were OCs followed by PBDEs, PCBs, with PFCs being the least abundant. The spatial distribution of POPs across Ku- wait suggested that the area around Sulaibiya, Amghara, and the 7th Ring road were “hot spots” for PCBs and PBDEs, whereas Shuwaikh had elevated concentrations of most OC pesticides, volatile fluorinated precursors, and their terminal degradation products (PFOS and PFOA). The sources of PCBs and PBDEs at the Sulaibiya and Amghara localities is thought to be the result of releases from vehicle dismantling operations, cement manufacturing, and/or volatilization from sludge drying operations from nearby wastewater treatment operations at Sulaibiya and Kabd. This study provides further evidence that passive samplers can be used in large-scale spatial mapping and for the identification of hot spots of contamination.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 62,240

Total budget: K.D. 116,780

102 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Completed Projects

Hydrocarbon Pollution of Kuwait’s Coastal Zone: Differentiation of Petrogenic, Anthropogenic and Biogenic Hydrocarbon (2012-1401-03)

T. Saeed, H. Al-Shammari, A. Al-Mutairi, and H. Abdullah

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The main objective of the present study was to investigate the detailed composition of hydrocarbons present in the sediment samples from Kuwait coastal area, with a view of differentiating the sources of these compounds. A total number of 70 sediment samples were collected. The samples were processed to yield aliphatic and aromatic fractions. Detailed analyses of these fractions were carried out by GC-FID and GC/ MS. The results indicated varying levels of contamination. In the south, the area between the refineries and Fintas was found to be contaminated with aliphatic hydrocarbons of petrogenic sources. At least 37% of the southern locations continue to receive fresh petroleum-related inputs. In Kuwait bay, two stations in Sulaibikhat were heavily polluted. About 35% of the offshore locations in Kuwait bay contained significant levels of aliphatics hydrocarbons. Two stations off the Bubiyan island also showed relatively high levels of aliphatic hydrocarbons. Based on the levels of PAHs, 11% stations were determined to be heavily polluted in the southern areas while in Kuwait bay, two stations were classified as being polluted and one station as heavily polluted. PAH levels were relatively low in northern areas, only one location was found to be polluted. All locations contained varying levels of aliphatic hydrocarbons. In addition, four locations contained biogenic aliphatic hydrocarbons. Based on the PAH results, 13 locations contained evidence of biogenic PAH, seven locations were mostly polluted with petrogenic PAHs, 32 locations were mostly contaminated with anthropogenic PAHs. A mixed source PAHs were found at 26 locations. Comparison with past studies indicated that aliphatics and PAHs were much higher compared to the past in southern and northern areas. For Kuwait bay, the levels were mixed for most of the locations.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 38,000

Total budget: K.D. 71,686

Multi-dimensional Assessment of Trace Metals and Criteria Pollutants Using Air and Water Quality Indices in the Kuwait Environment (2012-1401-04)

A. Bu-Olayan

Kuwait University

Abstract

This study assessed the effect of trace metals and criteria pollutants with a multi-dimensional approach of the outdoor and the indoor ambient air particulates, selected desert and cultivable plants and, in the marine ecosystem.

The first phase of our study during the year 2013 revealed the influence of temperature, wind velocity, humidity and altitude to particulate dispersion besides the effect of anthropogenic sources in the six Kuwait Gov- ernorate areas (GI-GVI). PM10 dispersed in the ambient air was observed higher than PM2.5 and PM1.0 in the outdoor environment indicating the influence of the dust storms and industrial pollution. Criteria pollutants such as CO, NO2 and SO2 were found high in GVI and GI than the other governorate areas, indicating the influence of oil and industrial pollution. Air quality index (AQI) indicated high NO2 concentrations, indicating the increase of automobile emission. Trace metals concentrations in the selected desert and cultivable plants were observed high in Portulaca oleraca, Citrullus collocynthus, Phaseolus vulgaris and Lycospersicum an- nuum leaves, stem and root respectively. Thus, these plants were labeled as possible bio-indicators of air pollution. Air tolerance pollution (pollution tolerance) indices (APTI) validated the sensitivity of such desert and cultivable plants to air pollution. Translocation factor (TF) in all the plants samples were >1 signifying trace metals hyper accumulation.

The second phase of the investigation was conducted during the year 2014 and determined the influence of different variables in selected indoor premises. Our study showed that the indoor/outdoor ratio (I/O) in Cri- teria pollutants-PM10, SO2, NO2, CO and CO were high during winter than in the summer except O3. These pollutants were high in warehouses-tools, car park basements in GVI and GII areas of Kuwait validating the effect of low or absence of heating, ventilation, air conditioning system (HVAC), automobile and industrial emissions. The indoor air quality index (IAQi) was found correlated with discomfort index (DI) for a given premises and this was found above the exceeding limits in GVI areas. The study on radon concentration showed an increasing trend in car park basements, and premises that were aged, had crevices or leaks in the walls and, without HVAC system in carpentry-warehouse. An integrated study of the indoor system alone revealed the pollutants in the magnitude of CO>CO2>SO2>NO2>Radon>PM10 pollutants. 103 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Completed Projects

The third phase of this study was conducted in the year 2015. The role of criteria pollutants, trace metals bioaccumulation factor (BAF), water quality index (WQI) in the marine organisms were determined besides, the effects of air and water pollution. The high values in WQI was inversely proportional to low pollution levels in the test samples thus, indicating the extent of pollution in seawater and sediment of the seven Kuwait marine sites. Studies showed high concentrations of trace metals in the sequence of Liza klunzingeri>Cer- ithium scabridum>Portunus pelagicus>Echinometra mathaei. Risk assessment studies suggested residents to regulate the intake of large and very small-sized fish over medium sized fish as well, regulate consuming surface and benthic dwelling fish over fishes from the thermocline zone.

In summation, this report incorporated the different indices of concern to air, water, plants and humans in relation to seasonal and environmental variables and quantified the exposure assessment of the criteria pollutants in the seven sites from six Kuwait Governorates besides, the determination of possible dietary toxicity and risk assessment of selected pollutants to residents of Kuwait.

Publication:

A.H. Bu-Olayan, B.V. Thomas; Time Series Assessment of PM2.5 Dispersion and the Effect of Trace Metals from Selected Arid Environment; Bioinfo Environ Pollut 5.1 (2015):60-64

KFAS contribution: K.D. 24,260

Total budget: K.D. 50,460

Effects of Kuwait Crude Oil on the Behavior of Sobaity Sea Bream Sparidentex hasta (2012-1407-01) Q. Karam, M. U. Beg, K. Al-Abdel- Elah, S. Hussain, S. Al-Dufaileej, M. Bahloul, Al-Khabaz, A. Ismail, Y. Mirza and E. AlHassan

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The present study was aimed at determining the effects of water-accommodated fraction (WAF) of Kuwait crude oil (KCO) on the swimming performance of sobaity (Sparidentex hasta) and shaem (Acanthopagrus latus) fish fingerlings.

Chemical characterization of WAF of KCO solutions revealed that total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations were 0.411, 0.787, and 1.280 mg/l for the three oil loadings 0.125, 0.25, and 0.5 g KCO/l seawater. The TPH concentration was not proportionally increased with an increase in oil loadings. The behavioral pattern of fish fingerlings was standardized in the control seawater using different duration intervals, which indicated consistent swimming performance values with time. The exposure of sobaity to a fish anaesthetic used as a positive control revealed that upon increasing the anaesthetic concentration, the swimming speed and swimming height were reduced. The exposure of shaem to another reference toxicant, malathion, decreased swimming speed and swimming height with increasing exposure concentrations and it induced a sluggish behavior, ultimately leading to morbidity and mortality at 4.0 mg/l. The sublethal effects of the WAF prepared at varying oil loadings on the fish were examined. In WAF-exposed sobaity, the average swimming speed decreased when compared to that of control, while no significant change was noticed in their average swimming height. The exposure concentration that triggered toxicity indices 0.8 and 0.47 were 0.25 and 0.5 g KCO loading /l seawater respectively. No toxicity index was recorded for the lowest 0.125 g KCO/l seawater loading. The ability of the sobaity fish to recover from the toxic effects was examined for 48 h after the cessation of 5-d long exposure at three WAF concentrations. At all of the exposure concentrations, the swimming performance of sobaity fish exhibited recovery and their behaviour improved. Chronic exposure of 3 mo old sobaity fingerlings to WAF of 0.125g KCO/l seawater resulted in an increase in swimming speed and swimming heights, which also triggered a toxicity index. Whereas, the chronic exposure at 0.125g KCO/l seawater caused no effect on the growth of sobaity and shaem. Exposure at higher KCO loadings exhibited some differences in the behavioral response of sobaity and shaem. The lowest observable effect concentration (LOEC) of KCO that caused behavioral alterations in sobaity and shaem fingerlings was found to be 0.125g KCO loading/l seawater. A histopathological investigation of the fish revealed similar manifestations in the exposed sobaity and shaem to either KCO or malathion and the symptoms were not significantly different under different exposure concentrations. Salient histopatholgical manifestations recorded in fish after exposure to KCO were secondary gill lamellar epithelium, kidney melanization, necrosis of the liver tissue, skin epithelial depletion, and loosened muscle bundles. Generally, the malathion exerted severe effect on fish organs in acute exposure than the KCO did in a chronic exposure regime. The present study provides a platform for more focused assessment of KCO toxicity and its effects on the locomotor behavior of the early-life stages of native fish species in Kuwait’s Territorial Waters and the Arabian Gulf.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 57,920

Total budget: K.D. 100,370

104 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Completed Projects

Probability and Statistical Analysis of Total Suspended Atmospheric Particu- late Matter in Kuwait (2012-4401-01)

S. Neelamani, M. Al-Sudairawi, A. Al-Dousari, A. Al-Homood, M. Ahmed, N. Al-Dousari, and M. Abdullah

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Statistical and probability analyses were carried out on the available total suspended particulate matter (TSP) data from five different locations in Kuwait; viz, Manageesh, Jahra, Reqqa, Shuwaikh, and Kuwait City. It was found that the daily average mean value of TSP varies from 197 to 330 µg/m3; median from 123 to 167 µg/m3; and mode, from 75 to 163 µg/m3. It was found that the Jahra area experiences daily average TSP of more than 2000 µg/m3 for 9 d/y, whereas for other locations it is from 1 to 3 d/y. For Jahra, 13.8% of days in a year, the daily average TSP value exceeds 500 µg/m3. Out of the five locations studied, Kuwait City experiences the least daily average TSP value and Jahra experiences the highest daily average TSP value. Correlation between the summer daily average TSP and the corresponding daily average visibility is linear and satisfactory. Correlation between the 5-min average visibility and the 5-min average TSP follows a power fit. Correlation between the seasonal average rainfall and the annual average TSP for the following year is better when compared to the seasonal average of two-year or three-year rainfall and the following year›s annual average TSP. In general, if the seasonal rainfall is higher, the following year›s annual average TSP is lesser. Dust also causes serious socio-economic effects. Delay of oneday oil export causes a revenue loss of about US$ 350 million. Delay in air traffic per day causes a loss of US$ 2,462,400/-. The annual dust fallout into the Kuwait Bay from August 2009 to July 2010, August 2010 to July 2011, and September 2013 to August 2014 were estimated as 225186.051 t, 283172.109 t, and 94,282.0 t, respectively. It was found from this study that Log-Normal distribution can be used successfully to represent the daily average TSP value in Kuwait. The expected extreme daily average TSP value for 100-y return period was estimated, based on Gumbel, Exponential, and Weibull extreme value distributions for Managhesh, Shuwaikh, and Kuwait City.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 11,170

Total budget: K.D. 58,380

Promoting Eco literacy Dimension in Government School Curriculum of Kuwait (2013-1101-01)

O. Karar

Arab Open University

Abstract

The research project aims to critically examine the role of the State in promoting ecoliteracy at the school level. The idea behind this critical study is to assess the adequacy and appropriateness of the existing environmental knowledge base, so as to examine the impact of the curriculum on actual behavioral change among the students in Kuwait. In order to achieve the same, the methodology adopted included curriculum review, survey questionnaire, interviews, focus group discussions and statistical analysis. In case of teachers survey, it was subjected to two types of analysis - (I) Descriptive Statistics and (II) Inferential Statistics. Study was pursued by CLIP and Gap analysis to develop strategies to support policy-makers and identify the discrepancies and the gaps associated with it. The research findings clearly states that the students in the schools are engaged in learning of the natural world as part of their classroom learning at almost all grades. Nevertheless, the main problem observed in eco-literacy in the schools is rooted in the lack of reconnecting students to living system to better understand our place in the web of life. The teaching needs augmentation with the challenges to mold students to ecologically literate community builders, active citizens who can make a difference.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 10,075

Total budget: K.D. 10,075

105 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Completed Projects

Feasibility Study for Establishing a National Gene Bank for Living Organisms in Kuwait (2013-1207-04)

S. Al- Bustan

Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences

Abstract

The feasibility study for establishing a national gene bank in Kuwait was commissioned and fully supported by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences. A gene bank is a facility where a collection of seed, vegetative tissues of plants, and genetic materials as well as gametes of animals are preserved and maintained for future use. The feasibility study was intended to investigate the need for such a repository, recommend the best approach and potential to establish such a facility in Kuwait that would allow the possible preservation of a variety of native species from both the marine and desert ecosystems and facilitate regional and international collaboration. Some of the tasks outlined in the project were undertaken during the first phase of the project and were successfully implemented. The major tasks carried out included identifying and compiling a list of native species that will be the target for such a bank. A report on biodiversity in Kuwait has been prepared, and will be updated with the newly published information as the project pro- gresses. The second task involved conducting a survey to assess current bio banking and identify the current status of other national programs. The survey has been designed and distributed to researchers from various institutes and the analysis of the survey responses received will be analyzed for the final report. The third main task for this phase was to establish and strengthen collaborations with related regional and international organizations. An initiative has been taken to collaborate with the Smithsonian Institute, Washington D.C. In fact, the research core team made a visit to the bio banking facilities in Washington DC which allowed ideas on the objectives and mission of the biobank to be developed clearly. In addition, the first workshop was planned during that visit and organized to be held in April, 2015. Preliminary findings from the tasks carried out so far appear to provide strong support for the need and importance of establishing a centralized bio banking facility. The facility will provide means for the cryopreservation of a wide range of biological specimens collected from the local habitat both short and long-term. In addition, a working plan outlining the biobank facility structure and best practices are being investigated for discussion and final recommendation in the biobank model to be presented in the final report. At this time, it is agreed that the biobank should be a newly established and an independent facility. Housing such a facility in Kuwait will fulfill its regional and international biodiversity obligations, related conventions and agreements. It is anticipated that such a center will have international affiliations to provide support and training.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 40,000

Total budget: K.D. 40,000

106 Ongoing Projects

Restoration of Pearl Oyster Resources in Kuwait Sea Bed (2009-1207-01)

F. Al-Hassawi, U. Khalifa, M. Fouda

Public Authority of Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources

Project Progress – Abstract

The third progress report includes description and calculation of pearl oyster densities along eight selected oyster beds. For the first time, community composition of the pearl oyster is considered. It was found that P.radiate nd P. margaritifera was the most dominant species, where they contributed about 98% of the early oyster community. The former constituted about 76%, while the latter represented about 22% of the total biomass of pearl oyster community. Population structure for the two species have been introduced and discussed. Size-weight relationship for the two species have been calculated and statistically compared. Morphometric relationship between dorsovental measure and other shell dimensions have been calculated for the two species. Stocking experiment has been carried out by transferring oysters from rich bed oyster in Ben Jumada to poor oyster bed in Bnaider. Unfortunately, growth cages have been completely distracted before finishing the experiment. Concomitantly, massive mortality of pearl oyster has been recorded in the two studied areas.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 22,450

Total budget: K.D. 63,170

107 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Ongoing Projects

Eco-Hydro-Geomorphological Modeling of Kuwait Desert Environment (2010-4401-04)

E. Eltahir

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Project Progress – Abstract

In arid and semi-arid ecosystems, vegetation is often thought of as the integrated response of the hydrologic interactions with the terrestrial and atmospheric systems, rather than an interactive component within these systems. The focus of the Eco-Hydro-Geomorphological Modeling component of the Kuwait Climate, Water and Vegetation proposal is to understand the influence of rooting profiles on the water and energy balance. It is proposed that through an understanding of the manner in which vegetation root systems interact with the hydrology, we can begin to examine how vegetation in this region responds to both natural and anthropogenic disturbances. In an environment where resources are variable and limited, understanding the mechanisms that attains (attain) these resources is critical in understanding vegetation survivorship and distribution. The model framework for this study is the Triangulated Irregular Network (TIN) based Real-Time Integrated Basin Simulator (tRIBS), coupled to the Vegetation Generation for Interactive Evolu- tion (VEGGIE). tRIBS is a physically-based distributed hydrologic model. The following additions have been made to tRIBS+VEGGIE over the course of the project in order to better represent the hydrology-ecology interactions in arid regions: (i) subsurface redistribution – improved scheme to allow lateral layer to layer flow; (ii) dynamic vegetation of multiple PFTs – updated to allow multiple PFTs to reside in one computational element, thus allowing for the competition of resources; and (iii) dynamic rooting scheme – to allow for vegetation to adapt to natural variability. The development of these models have not only added more realism to the treatment of vegetation roots but also addressed the discrepancy in the level of sophistication with which above and below ground vegetation is represented in hydrologic models. The ability of this new scheme to capture the hourly energy flux dynamics, the distribution of soil moisture through the soil column, as well as the above-ground dynamics of the vegetation illustrates (illustrate) the strength of the improved tRIBS+VEGGIE model. This evaluation provides confidence that the model is able to capture the multi-direc- tional interactions between climate, soil and vegetation at this site.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 81,540

Total budget: K.D. 81,540

Coupled Biosphere - Atmosphere Modeling over Kuwait (2010-4401-05)

E. Eltahir

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Project Progress – Abstract

Two thirty-year regional climate simulations were performed, coupled to a dynamic vegetation model over Kuwait. One simulation, the control, prescribed vegetation and plant coverage types that could not compete or change over the thirty years. Another simulation allowed for plant competition and hence dynamic vegetation. It is found that over the surrounding region of Kuwait, a slight greening occurs and shrub lands and grasslands can persist in some years, those which are wet or preceded by wet years. Although changes in biomes occur, they are quite slight in terms of the amount of greening caused by these changes (i.e. changes in the actual leaf area index). This result is due to the extreme climate conditions that occur over Kuwait; by June, Kuwait and the surrounding area is too hot and dry to support plant life, thus the shrubs and grasses subsequently die off, regardless to biome classification or plant functional type.

As a result, small decreases in temperature over the area occur from December to April, when the region is greenest. The slight decrease in DJF temperature is a result of a slight increase in the latent heat flux during the same months due to increased evapotranspiration. Later in the year, during the spring, the net radiation over Kuwait increases slightly as the upward longwave (long-wave) radiation decreases. In contrast, no significant changes in rainfall totals or patterns are observed. Therefore, it is concluded, that overall, vegetation dynamics do not play a significant role in the climate of Kuwait.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 98,529

Total budget: K.D. 98,529

108 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Ongoing Projects

Biodiversity and Taxonomy of Kuwait’s Marine Benthic Dinoflagellates (Mi- croalgae) (2011-1207-05)

W. Al-Rashed, F. Al-Yamani, I. Polikarpov, A .Lennox, T. Al-Said, K. Al-Rifaie, S. Al-Safar and A. Al-Kandari

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress – Abstract The biodiversity of microalgae has not been comprehensively studied in the most tropical and subtropical areas, including Kuwait›s waters. Conducting a comprehensive ecological survey program on benthic dinoflagellates relies on the identification of the dinoflagellate species. The present second annual progress report covers six tasks, namely mobilization, sampling program and procedure, sample processing; microscopic examination, and culture work; molecular analysis and data analysis; and reporting. It represents the period from March 2013 to March 2014. Seawater samples were collected from the bottom depth of four stations, including the inshore coral habitats (Qitat Funaitees), offshore coral islands (Kubbar), Doha beach and north of Kuwait Bay at Bubiyan Island (Station A) during spring (March to May 2013) and summer (June to August 2013). The samples were analyzed for concentrations of chlorophyll-, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, micronutrients and macronutrients. Ten stations (Shuwaikh, Dasman, Turtle Island, Marina Crescent, Salmi- yah, Fahaheel, Julai›a, Khiran pond, Khiran lagoon and Khiran open sea beaches) were sampled for seawater, sediment and macroalgae during spring (March to May 2013) and summer (June to August 2013) for the qualitative analysis of benthic dinoflagellates. For the quantitative and the qualitative studies of the benthic dinoflagellates, dead corals, sediment and macroalgae were processed from the inshore reefs of Qitat Fu- naitees and from offshore islands Kubbar, besides sediment and macroalgae from Doha beach and sediment from Station A. Scanning Electron Microscope pictures were taken for Prorocentrum sp. and Coolia monotis from Khiran. DNA sequence was run for Prorocentrum rhathymum from Khiran Open sea (July 2013). Four species of benthic dinoflagellates Coolia monotis Prorocentrum emarginatum, Prorocentrum bimaculatum and Prorocentrum fukuyoi were isolated, cultured and maintained. Statistical analysis of the microalgae and marine physical and chemical parameters collected during 2013 revealed significant differences between data from sampling sites, mostly related to southern (Qitat Funaitees and Kubbar) or northern locations (A, Doha) of the sampling area.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 51,085

Total budget: K.D. 164,785

The Collapse of Kuwait’s Fishery Stocks: Analysis and Identification of the Causes, Data Needs and Remedial Management Actions (2011-1401-06) M. Al Husaini, J. Bishop, A. Al-Baz, W. Chen, H. Al-Foudari, A.R. Hsasan, T. Dashti, S. Al-Jazzaf Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research Project Progress – Abstract This first annual progress report describes the project’s progress for the period from August 2014 to July 2015. The objectives of the project were to identify and prioritize the causes for the decline in the landings of fresh fish into Kuwait since 1985, to prepare a management road map, based on the identification of the causes for the decline in fish landings, and to identify the critical data needs to allow monitoring of the fish landings of Kuwait and to allow the measurement of effectiveness of management actions in rehabilitating fish stocks. The ten major commercial species (Zobaidy, Hamoor, Newaiby, Nagroor, Hamra, Shaem, Suboor, Maid, Shrimp species P. semisulcatus, and M. affinis), major by-catch species for fishing gear types (shrimp trawling, gar- goor traps, and gill nets), and threatened, endangered, protected species (TEPS) were identified and lists prepared. Species’ profiles for 10 key species, biological data for 22 by-catch species and 8 TEP species were collated through intensive literature search and review. The eight at-high-risk TEP species were determined among 130 species using qualitative risk analysis. Five institutions in the three neighboring countries were visited to facilitate the data collection from these countries. The first workshop was held in Kuwait on 1st and 2nd December 2014 in order to increase the stakeholder awareness of the project, as well as to discuss data availability in the region that could contribute to achieving the objectives of the project. Two quarterly sea surveys were also conducted during January and March 2015. Qualitative and quantitative risk assessment has been started using DPSIR (driving forces, pressure, state, impacts and responses) framework for the selected commercial key species. A list of possible environmental and other impacts (‘hazards’) has been identified, in addition to fishing impact. The risk of each hazard to the landings in Kuwait for each fish stock (key species, by-catch species, and TEPS) will be assessed through an ecological risk assessment procedure. Measure of ‘resilience’ and ‘susceptibility’ with ecological indicators for each species will be used. Preliminary risk assessment for hamoor is completed while work is in progress for the other key species.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 310,000 Total budget: K.D. 310,000 109 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Ongoing Projects

The Biology of Marine Bivalves and their Environment in Kuwait, Phase I: Population Structure, Reproduction and Mitochondrial DNA (2012-1207-02) S. Al-Mohanna

Kuwait University

Project Progress – Abstract

Bivalves are one of the many major components of shell fisheries in Kuwait acting as a natural biological resource providing the inhabitants of Kuwait both locals and expatriates with valuable nutrients. The absence of adequate scientific knowledge in relation to commercially important bivalve species in Kuwait impedes the sustainability of this resource through conservation of bivalve biodiversity and their exiting habitats. This study aims to achieve a proper understanding of the state of bivalves allowing for the establishment of modern fisheries management strategies based on an ecosystem approach.

Several clam species of potential economic importance were collected from several beds along selected sites, both intertidally and subtidally. A total of 500 specimens were collected, transferred into aquaria with aerated filtered seawater and fed twice a week with a small amount of benthic diatom mixture. During our survey, it was remarkable to observe a large number of expatriates of different ages and nationalities (mainly East Asian) actively harvesting various types of clam species along some of the intertidal zones.

External and internal morphological features as well as height, length and breadth were considered in species identification. Eight bivalve species were identified, with the 4 most common and commercially important species belonging to the family of Veneridae, namely, Amiantis umbonella, Protape cor, Marcia opima and Marcia Flammae. It was difficult to recognize male from female due to the lack of external morphological features. Hence, dissection took place and gonads were processed for histological examination, using both light (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to determine sex.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 63,750

Total budget: K.D. 74,750

The Effects of Developments in Mesopotamian Marshland on Boubyan and Warba Islands (2012-1401-01) Y. Alosairi, S. Neelamani, T. Pokavanich, I. Polikarpov, A. Kwarteng, C. Small, A. Al-Handal

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress – Abstract

The discharge regime of Shatt Al-Arab, the final stretch of Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, has been significantly modified during the past 50 years, owing to anthropogenic activities in the Mesopotamian Marshlands and upstream the rivers. Having stated that, Boubyan and Warba Islands, north-west of the Arabian Gulf, receives direct influence from the varying discharge including the geomorphology, sediment transport, water quality and hydrodynamic regime. In the current progress report, preliminary assessments have been conducted on Boubyan and Warba Islands utilizing remote sensing techniques. The results show alteration in Boubyan and very minimal to Warba over the past years. The details of the field surveys are given in the report, including the sampling and instruments deployment locations, the techniques and instruments used for this purpose, as well as the results showing the temporal and spatial variations in the study area. This is a crucial step towards the understanding of seasonal variations of the complex system. General arrangements with Basra University have been established with regards to Shatt Al-Arab discharge measurements and the location of possible instrument deployment for this purpose has been set. Due to logistically difficult conditions, the measurements were not conducted up to date. General assessments of the upper Arabian Gulf region have been conducted using a comprehensive numerical model. The hydrodynamic seasonal variations have been studied and assessed by comparing some numerical results with the field observations. The model is considered as an excellent basis for the detailed modeling study that would focus on the study region at the future stages of the project.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 80,065

Total budget: K.D. 169,335

110 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Ongoing Projects

Photocatalytic Oxidative Removal of Phenolic Compounds from Waste- water Using Ozone and Hydrogen Peroxide Produced by New Electrodes (2012-1405-01) H. Al-Kandari Public Authority for Applied Education and Training

Project Progress – Abstract In this stage of the research project, characterization of reduced graphene oxide is performed. Carbon materials were loaded on commercial TiO2 using different methods: Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized from commercial graphite using Hummer’s method. Then, GO was initially impregnated over TiO2 (GOTI) and reduced later using a stream of hydrogen gas in a controlled reactor at 450ºC (H2RGOTi) or reduced initially by hydrazine hydrate solution (HH) in a 1000-W microwave oven (HHRGO( then loaded later on TiO2 (HHR- GOTi). Also, hydrothermal reduction was applied to obtain reduced GO (RGO) and RGO/ TiO2 composite (RGOTi). All as-prepared composites were characterized by bulk and surface techniques. These techniques include X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Infrared spectroscopy (IR), Raman spectroscopy (Raman) and Ultarviolet – Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis). Surface areas of all as-prepared composite were also measured. In addition, electrodes of H2O2 and O3 generation were prepared and partially characterized due to some obstacles, which will be mentioned later. The photocatalytic activity of the aforementioned composites was tested for phenol, p-chlorophenol, p-nitrophenol degradation in absence and absence of H2O2 was compared with the commercial TiO2.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 68,960

Total budget: K.D. 79,060

Multi-dimensional Assessment of Trace Metals and Criteria Pollutants Using Air and Water Quality Indices in the Kuwait Environments (2013-1401-02) A. Bu-Olayan Kuwait University

Project Progress – Abstract A fine detailed literature and preliminary site surveys of the earlier Project (KFAS 2012-1401-04) led to specific findings in polluted sites of Kuwait. These findings determined the role of air and water pollution in a multidimensional approach and hence, studied as an Extended Task, Phase-II.

Site specific study of outdoor air quality assessment was conducted to determine: (1) the effect of ‘criteria pollutants’ and trace metals near cement mixing quarries, waste disposal in open areas-landfills, construc- tional activities in newly built locations distributed in the Kuwait Governorate areas, (2) selected trace metals of importance in particulates (PM10, PM2.5) in the above mentioned sites from ambient air, (3) bio-monitoring studies on the trace metals in selected cultivable edible plants of Kuwait that determined the concept of pollution indices and, translocation factor. The study on the toxicity levels of each pollutant, especially from the indigenous cultivable plants of Kuwait to residents of Kuwait is in progress and will be detailed in the final report.

This investigation undertook site specific study of selected trace metals and ‘criteria pollutants’ in selected indoor establishment of public utility and deduced the occupational exposure of indoor pollution. Data analysis is in progress to correlate the influence of external and internal variables, and indoor air quality.

This study validated water pollution assessment by training and supporting a Master Student (Eman A. Al-Feraih) enrolled for the Environmental Science Course (EVS: 500). A case study was addressed on the assessment of mercury pollution in seawater, sediment and three commercial marine fishes namely, Liza klunzingeri (grey mullet), Euryglossa orientalis (Sole), Nemipterus japonicus (Japanese thread fin sea bream). The dietary intake of seafood by the residents in Kuwait was deduced. The Master student successfully completed the research tasks and awarded the degree too. This study will create public awareness to curb pollution through multi-dimensional approach.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 14,842

Total budget: K.D. 14,842

111 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Ongoing Projects

Using Value Methodology for Deployment of Scrap Tires to Fight Desertifica- tion in Kuwait and Ration Water (2013-1501-01)

F. Al-Anzi

Kuwait University

Project Progress – Abstract

Desertification is one of the contemporary environmental challenges that are addressed throughout the globe. The urgency is even more challenging in the gulf region with its harsh climate. Plants survivability rates in Kuwait are extremely low due to dry lands, extensive loss of water bodies, quickly turning lands into arid barren lands with rare to very limited vegetation. Fighting desertification requires huge investment and technological solutions that most of the time are becoming hard to maintain and hence they become not economical and manageable in the long run.

This research project is working on a solution to tackle the desertification issue using a more economical solution, that is, recyclable materials that is easily sustainable to the problem. The project team is using Value Engineering methodology in redesigning a prototype that would provide similar functionalities to the well- known technology of Waterboxx kits while reducing the capital and operational costs and simplifying the process of manufacturing and usability by regular farmers. The new design employs used tires and recycled plastic sheets as raw materials. Hence, the study is going to help not just fighting desertification but also helping in getting rid of ever growing huge tire dumpsters in Kuwait, as well as helping in avoiding hazards of tire fires, thus yielding a safer and friendlier environment. A prototype is being fabricated and tested in a controlled simulated lab environment; this will be followed by real environment field testing. Water and soil analysis conducted on the site of the experiment to cross-compare between the composition of the soil before and after the experiment to ensure that the prototype being tested is actually going to be environment safe. A team effort is made by the team to coordinate between all involved governmental agencies as stake holders of project outcome. This will help pushing the project implementation forward and aid the adoption of the project results, once it is completed as well as testing the prototype in a timely manner and ensuring that the project would adhere to its objectives. The concept of the project was awarded third place in the Arab League Ministers of Water Competition for Saving Irrigation Water, Doha, Qatar, 2014. In acknowledge- ment of this achievement, the team head was awarded a certificate of recognition of this project.

The project is progressing as per planned timeline that was listed in the original project proposal. So far, in its first year, the project has successfully achieved its planned milestones.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 99,400

Total budget: K.D. 99,400

Genetic Engineering of Alfalfa for Remediation of Soil Contaminated with Heavy Metals and Residual Crude Oil (2013-4401-01)

V. Kumar, S. Al-Momin, S.M. Nair, A.B. Shajan, H. Al-Aqeel, A.M. Ali, C. Sudhersan, S. Al-Mouqati, and F. Al- Salameen

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress – Abstract

Phytoremediation is a cost-effective and environmental-friendly approach among the available technologies to remediate soil that is contaminated with various pollutants. Remediation of oil-contaminated soil is a major challenge for Kuwait. Bioremediation can be used effectively to eliminate significant level of crude oil from contaminated soil. However, traces of crude oil and associated heavy metals should be eliminated from contaminated soil using alternative technologies such as phytoremediation. The aim of this project is to screen selected plant species for the remediation of oil-contaminated soil and engineering alfalfa plants for enhanced metal uptake ability. The project duration is for a period of 36 months. During this period, Task 1, Mobilization, was completed, essential supplies and equipment needed for the project were procured. The proposed work under Task 2 to 5 has begun. In Task 2, the metal tolerance, uptake ability and tolerance to petroleum hydrocarbons was assessed for Atriplex halimus, alfalfa, barley and Indian mustard species. Due to the unavailability of seeds, Atriplex halimus plants were propagated through tissue culture methods. The protocol for micropropagation of Atriplex halimus was established successfully. In Task 3, the samples are being prepared for heavy metal analysis from various plant tissues. In Task 4, primers were designed and were used to clone ATP sulfurylase gene from Arabidopsis cDNA. The recombinant plasmids having a full length gene are being sequenced for the confirmation of the isolated gene. In Task 5, the tissue culture optimization work is under progress. Future work will be focused on mobilizing the full length gene into a plant transformation vector, transformation of alfalfa with the engineered vector, generation of transgenic events and the analysis of the transgenic alfalfa plants for their phytoremediation efficiency.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 44,300

Total budget: K.D. 130,740 112 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | Ongoing Projects

Chemical and Biological Assessment of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in Waste and Coastal Waters in Kuwait (P214-42WE-01)

N. Al-Jandal, T. Saeed, A.I. Saheb, S. Al-Subaiai, K. Abdel-Elah and W. Al-Zekri

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress – Abstract

Kuwait has been discharging sewage and treated wastewater to the coastal areas; hence, a need to investigate into the levels and the effect of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in Kuwait was contemplated. In this report, water and sediment samples were collected from Al-Heshan, Al-Ghazali Trade Free Zone, Shu- waikh port, Fahaheel, and Fintas. All required resources for the project were procured with few exceptions, which will be completed during the next part of the project, along with their associated tasks. Field exposure for summer season was carried out in the aforementioned sites. Every exposure (2 wh) consisted of 30 fish divided into two cages, and the fish were sampled terminally. Additionally, an experimental induction work was carried out to ensure vitellogenin (Vtg) induction. Vtg as a biomarker for exposure to EDCs and experimental induction was investigated in fish samples using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELLISA), dotblot, histology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and Vtg gene expression. Preliminary results indicated Vtg induction in most of the plasma samples of exposed fish in comparison to the control. Liver damage, especially of the hepatic cells and fatty depositions were noticed in the exposed fish at all the sites with different intensities. IHC showed significant Vtg localization in the liver samples of fish exposed for 2 wh, from the exposure sites very close to the sewage outlet (Fintas). Interestingly, Vtg localization was more intense in fish exposed at Shuwaikh port for 2 wh than for 1-wh occurrence. The degenerate primers used to amplify the putative Vtg gene showed inconclusive results gradient temperatures of amplification. However, the ac- tin gene was amplified, indicating that there is a need for examining the gene expression with more sets of primers from closely related species.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 58,325

Total budget: K.D. 152,104

113 New Projects

Spaces of Living: Urban Reflections of Kuwaiti Society (2013-1401-01)

S. Alshalfan

AGi Architects

Abstract

This research proposal calls for addressing the process of urbanization in Kuwait post-oil discovery: a much neglected but crucial aspect of the country’s current and future development. Due to the nature and complexity of urban design research, the project calls for a multi-disciplinary approach that tackles the needs of the different actors of the city, including developers, planners, architects, businesses and the general public, who usually come from different backgrounds and may sometimes have conflicting interests. It will focus on the importance for Kuwaiti citizens to regain a stronger stance socially and culturally in shaping their city, transforming them from being passive bystanders into active participants involved in the regeneration of the urban space. Thus the research aims at establishing a holistic framework to tackle the various socio-spatial forces that act on the Kuwaiti city today by bridging the gap between society, academia and the professional world. By collaborating with academic institutions, this project will demonstrate the importance of professional know-how in enhancing research application as it aims to gain from both theory and practice. It will also build on KFAS existing collaborations with world-renowned universities, and extend work that has been conducted by research there into further research for the benefit of Kuwait. Its focus on the long-term goals of regaining sustainable development and securing a strong heritage for future generations to come will open the possibility to extend this work back to KFAS existing international programs for further exploration. Finally, this project will enhance KFAS role in society in supporting and investing in initiatives that benefit the public in general and the private sector in particular.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 37,125

Total budget: K.D. 96,150

114 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | New Projects

A Feasibility Study Plan for Establishing and Operating a National Cleaner Pro- duction Center (2013-4406-01) E. Al Eisa Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences

Abstract This feasibility study is created based on the Term of Reference (ToR) approved by KFAS and in accordance to UNIDO/UNEP Manual for creating cleaner production centers and Project Management Institute Stand- ards for project initiation and execution. The plan includes enterprise environmental factor associated with the State of Kuwait. There are internal and external factors that surround or influence the cleaner production center’s success. The objective is to determine the scope of work, time frame and the qualifications required for the project. It also establishes main expected deliverable and the suggested technical, administrative infrastructures required to establish the center and to reach its full potential as a national focal point for the implementation of Cleaner Production. The main deliverable is a feasibility study and a basic programmatic plan for the national center to support the industrial sector and protect the environment through the development and adoption of cleaner production practices that would minimize waste generation and increase efficiency in the utilization of natural resources and related services including energy efficiency, industrial symbiosis and waste recycling, life cycle assessments, ecolabelling and environmental accounting.

The study assumes no financial returns in the first three years. The program shall start off as a project hosted by host institution, then transferred after that into another organization or becomes a stand-alone nationally owned entity.

As explained by the ToR, the study will only cover the industrial sector; primarily large and medium sized enterprises, as it is considered as a major national concern. Services associated with agriculture, hotels, ports, hospitals, etc. could be included after the establishment of the center.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 40,000

Total budget: K.D. 40,000

Levels of Pesticide Residue in Raw Milk and Selected Dairy Products in the Ku- wait Market with Emphasis on Public Health (P214-42NM-01) M. Al-Fayez Public Authority for Applied Education and Training

Abstract The Worldwide use of pesticides has increased steadily to the extent that the annual production of synthetic pesticide chemicals exceeds on billion 1 t. With this increased use of pesticides, public concern over the effects of pesticides and pesticide residues is increasing. Organic chlorine pesticides are of particular concern as they usually top the list of pesticides in common use and they remain in the environment after their application. They are lipophilic in nature, are absorbed by animals and increase in concentration as they pass up the food chain. Therefore, they are commonly found in milk and dairy products. Little information about the degree of contamination of milk and dairy products in Kuwait with these pesticides is known. This study examines the levels of pesticide residues in the raw milk produces in Kuwait, as well as, in the dairy products.

The objectives of the study are to: 1. Increase the public awareness of the adverse health effects resulting from the misuse of pesticides. 2. Establish a database for pesticide monitoring in raw milk and dairy products in Kuwait. 3. Identify the effect of the commonly used heat treatments for milk on the levels of existing pesticide residues. The proposed project includes four major tasks: 1. Mobilizing and preparing the work plan collection of samples. 2. Preparing samples for analysis, extracting fat, cleaning up, and injecting using the available Gas Chromatograph. 3. Evaluating results and analysing data. The results will be interpreted and matched with the appropriate reference standard. 4. Documenting and reporting. The research team will be composed of seven members who are available in the central lab, veterinary services, and Public Authority of Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAFR). KFAS contribution: K.D. 73,400 Total budget: K.D. 278,020

115 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | New Projects

Genetic Characterization of Haloxylon Salicornicum and Rhanterium Epapposum Native Plant Species of Kuwait by DNA Markers (P214-42SL-02) F. Al-Salameen Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract Kuwait’s native vegetation is unique due to the diversity of species that exist in desert plants that are well adapted to the harsh climate and ecological system. The species that exist in this ecosystem have enormous scientific value because they offer a valuable genetic pool that lends itself to drought, heat and salt-tolerance research that can be applied to a wide range of cultivated plants. The plants have potential use in phytoremediation, ornamental landscaping and sand protection from erosion. Unfortunately, the native plant biodiversity of the Arabian Peninsula has been rapidly depleted over the recent years. Over 90% of the total land area now suffers from desertification, and 44% severely degraded. The main causes of this problem include global warming, overgrazing, increase in off-road driving activity, desert camping, expansion in urban areas, and damage caused during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait during 1990. Therefore, there is an urgent need to conserve the flora of Kuwait for future generations. The understanding of genetic variation production in the community is essential for the establishment of effective and efficient conservation practice for desert native plants. Molecular techniques such as Sequence Related Amplified Polymorphism (SRAP), Inter-Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSR( analysis and genotyping by sequencing (GBS( can provide very accurate assessment of the relative quantity of variation within the population. This project is focused on the assessment of genetic diversity of two important Kuwaiti native plants, Haloxylon salicornicum and Rhanterium papposum.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 41,100 Total budget: K.D. 69,020

Investigation of Soil Microbial Communities and Vegetation for Baseline Data- base Development at Selected Sites in Kuwait Desert (P214-42SL-03)

A. Quoreshi

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract Biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation jeopardize human well-being and biogeochemical processes at present and in the future. Recent increase in anthropogenic activities, desertification, and changes in local climatic patterns in Kuwait are probably distressing many aspects of human life, and also affecting vegetation changes, biodiversity in general and soil microbial community, consequently, altering vegetation community dynamics and ecosystem functions. There is a lack of information on how plant diversity, soil microbial communities and ecosystem functions are linked in desert ecosystem processes, and how these can be impacted by anthropogenic disturbances and local climatic change. Soil microorganisms are crucial components for the functioning of the terrestrial ecosystem.

Although the relationships between vegetation, soil, microbes, and climate generally have been established elsewhere, scanty information is available regarding the Arab region, including the Kuwait desert ecosystem. Currently, no comprehensive research and monitoring program exists in Kuwait on soil and plant microbial community structure, diversity and their interaction with vegetation diversity. Therefore, the proposed project is expected to initiate a much needed research program to investigate the distribution and abundance of vegetation and microbial communities, and their interactions in plant-root-soil systems in response to biotic and abiotic factors of the Kuwait environment.

The study will focus on selected vegetation communities in Kuwait desert located at Sulaibiya Agricultural Research Station at Kebd, Al-Liyah sites in northern Kuwait, Mina Abdallah area, and near Abdaly farm, Um Niqa as they represent major vegetation communities in Kuwait. The research findings of soil and plant biodiversity, and linking to ecosystem functioning will help guide and formulate strategies to ensure the nation›s sustainable development, and long-term resource management.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 73,536 Total budget: K.D. 144,406

116 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | New Projects

Quantitative Survey of Sargassum Macroalgae along Kuwait Coastline: First Step towards It’s Bed Restoration (P214-42SL-04)

A. Alghunaim

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract Sargassum in Kuwait serve as a nursery habitat for economically important shrimp species such as Penaeus semisulcatus and Metapenaeus affinis, as well as for a wide variety of marine animals, including young turtles, crabs and some economically important finfish. It provides young fish and shrimp shelter from predators, and harbors small organisms, hence, providing a constant supply of small prey for the young to feed upon. The aim of this proposed project is to provide a baseline in the distribution of Sargassum in Kuwait›s marine environment and to improve our understanding of the role of Sargassum as a valuable natural resource in Kuwait and its importance as a habitat. To obtain temporal variability and seasonality of Sargassum, monthly surveys are required to cover all the seasons, as well as to cover the entire Kuwait waters as much as possible. The proposed study includes screening of Sargassum habitat, diving and underwater camera survey, as well as collection of Sargassum samples for community analyses, epiphytic algae analysis, and analysis of key physicochemical and biological oceanographic variables. Analyses of chemical, nutritional and safety aspects of edible Sargassum will be carried out. The project will document the diversity of Sargassum species in Kuwait waters and their distribution, and the assessment of the importance of Sargassum as a habitat for larval forms of shrimps and fish and as substrate for epiphytic harmful dinoflagellates associated with the Sargassum). Our findings will provide the basis for a follow-up study on the feasibility of introducing restoration techniques for selected Sargassum species based on its ecological, industrial and economic importance.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 46,375 Total budget: K.D. 162,516

Biochemical Potential of Conocarpus Lancifolius in Uptake of Carcinogenic Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons and Heavy Metals (P214-42SL-05)

R. Al-Hasan

Kuwait University

Abstract Conocarpus lancifolius is an ever green plant introduced in Kuwait right after the Gulf war. The plant was selected for Kuwait greenery projects and it thrives well throughout the year on most of the main boulevards, landscapes and residential areas. We initiated a research project to investigate survival of Conocarpus lancifolius under a variety of stress conditions such as temperature, salinity, drought, UV-B irradiation and found that the plant has a good potential to endure these conditions. Lately, Kuwaiti public raised concern that this plant may cause harm to the human health or other living beings in contact or destruction to certain underground sanitary networks. We wish to undertake this study to show that Conocarpus lancifolius is not only a friendly plant but also may remedy environmental problems in Kuwait such as elimination of polyaromatic hydrocarbons ( PAH) and heavy metals from the soil. Many plants are known to be good accumulators of PAH and heavy metals. We are interested to find local solutions to local problems and show that C. lancifolius has a good potential as PAH and heavy metal elimination from the environment. C. lancifolius will be exposed to PAH in Hoagland solution and the PAH (Flurenthene, anthracene, phenantherene and pyrene) and after ten weeks of exposure the roots and green parts of the plant will be quantified by HPLC/MS and GC/MS for PAH and their modified derivates. Similarly C. lancifolius will be exposed to heavy metals (lead, chromium, vanadium, and nickel as nitrates) in Hoagland solution and their accumulation will be monitored by IPC. The cytogenetic properties of C. lancifolius treated with PAH and heavy metal will be studied by means of FISH and GISH techniques. The study will also investigate root development in C. lancifolius in relation to water moisture in the soil, proliferation properties of the root and its possible impact on the underground water and sanitation systems.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 50,900

Total budget: K.D. 119,680

117 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | New Projects

A Revision on the Marine Algal Flora of Kuwait with Special Emphasis on the Epiphytes (P214-42SL-06)

R. Al-Hasan

Kuwait University

Abstract

Twenty five years since the last survey on marine algal flora of the coast of Kuwait was carried out by Al-Has- san and Jones (1989). During this period various environmental incidents took place and, in particular, damage caused by the Gulf War 1990 and the drainage of the Mesopotamian marshes in south of Iraq affecting the sea water quality in coast of Kuwait. The proposed study will further survey the coasts of Kuwait and selected islands to update the previous records with special attention to the small epiphytic communities and the seasonal and geographical distribution. In addition Molecular analysis will be introduced in this investigation to verify the identification of the collected algae and establish a new molecular database for the marine algae of Kuwait.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 48,800 Total budget: K.D. 95,460

Approaches to Enhance the Sustainability in Kuwait: Environmental Impact and Cost Estimation of Changing Fuels in Kuwait’s Electricity Grid (P214-42WE-02)

N. Alhajeri

Kuwait University

Abstract The air quality impact and amount of water that is used by electric power systems are of great concern. Electricity generation systems are major sources of criteria air pollutants and carbon emissions; they also affect water resources due to their high water requirement for cooling and condensing the steam that is generated in thermal cycles. In Kuwait, electricity generation systems are highly linked to fresh water production because power plants simultaneously generate power and produce fresh water. Therefore, the application of any air pollution control technology on power plants can affect the amount of water that is consumed and produced. The aim of this research is to assess different mechanisms for managing environmental impact and enhancing the sustainability of electricity generation units. Specifically, the study will investigate the impact of switching power plants fuels on the concentration levels of air pollution and water consumption. The optimum cost that is associated with each scenario will also be estimated by using an optimization model while accounting for supply-demand constraints. This work will demonstrate the extent to which system operation decisions (i.e., based on switching the fuel type) can mitigate the forms of impact and enhance the resilience and sustainability of the energy system in Kuwait. The sustainability is measured through indicators including air quality (e.g., NOx, $02, and CO emissions), greenhouse gas emissions (e.g., C02 emissions), water availability, economic cost, and electricity supply-demand balance. An integrated system model that has several components, such as the air quality model, optimization, and geographic models, will be built to test the cascading effects that one model has on the others. The electric grid of Kuwait will be used as a source of data and as a geographic and temporal domain.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 59,050 Total budget: K.D. 121,510

Quantification of the Contribution of the Main Activities at the Shuai- ba West Industrial Area to Ambient Pollution Levels at Ali Sabah Al-Salem (P214-44SC-02)

A. Ramadan

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract A large number of local industries are clustered in the Shuaiba West Industrial Area (SWIA). Due to the proximity of the SWIA to the Ali Sabah Al-Salem (ASAS) area, there are some concerns regarding the effect of emissions from the SWIA›s industries on the air quality at the ASAS area. Hence, there is an urgent need to quantify the contribution of the SWIA emissions to the ambient air pollution levels in the ASAS area.

Here we propose to conduct a limited numerical modeling study to calculate the ground-level concentra-

118 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | New Projects tions (G-LCs) of the main pollutants at the ASAS area due to emissions from the SWIA activities. Such a limited study will only assess the contribution of the emissions from the main SWIA sources on the G-LCs of NOx, S02, H2S and PM10 at the ASAS area. Contributions of various other neighboring sources, e.g., oil production, refinery, and Ministry of Electricity and Water activities, in addition to transport, which have a definite effect on the air quality in the ASAS area, will not be addressed here.

The proposed study will utilize the AERMOD, an approved United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) regulatory air dispersion model, to determine the G-LCs of the mentioned four main pollutants resulting from the existing sources at the SWIA. It is expected that the Public Authority for Industry (PAI) will supply the information needed to run the model (as detailed in the proposal), to KISR. Based on this assessment, the impact of these sources will be evaluated and practical mitigation, i.e., air pollution control methods will be recommended. The recommendations will be made to ensure that the future G-LCs of the mentioned four pollutants at the ASAS area resulting from the activities in the SWIA will comply with the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQSs) of Kuwait Environment Public Authority (KEPA) for residential and industrial areas, as applicable.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 35,720 Total budget: K.D. 59,500

Development of an Emission Inventory for the State of Kuwait (P214-44SC-03)

A. Ramadan

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Developing the Kuwait Emission Inventory System (KEIS) of criteria air pollutants (CAPs) for the State of Kuwait has been identified as a high-priority project by the Air Quality Program (AQP).

Among the objectives of this project are: establishing a platform to include all of the emissions in a process simulation system, quantifying the emission contribution of each sector, performing emission trend analysis, providing support for policy makers and industry to control the emissions and set achievable future targets, and identifying criteria-pollutants› hotspots monitoring locations.

The KEIS will be developed, based on United States-Environment Protection Agency (US-EPA) guidelines. The latest US-EPA AP-42 emission factors and the Emission Projection Models (EPMs) will be used to estimate the emissions from various sources. The emission estimation will be performed in accordance with the latest findings of the US-EPA›s Emission Inventory Improvement Program (EIIP) Technical Report Series, Volumes I-X.

The KEIS will help the regulators and the emitters alike in various aspects. Regulators can, for example, track progress made on the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQSs) attainment and emission reduc- tions, and develop control strategies and new regulations based on this. On the other hand, the emitters can gauge their compliance with the local emission regulations and set the baseline for their policy, accordingly.

Finally, the emission inventory will provide support to the government of the State of Kuwait in complying with the increasing national and international environmental obligations and reporting requirements, as well as national interests. In brief, the need for the proposed work is timely.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 89,840 Total budget: K.D. 193,521

Evaluation of Tsunami Hazards along the Kuwaiti Coastline Due to Possible Earthquake and Landslides (P214-44SE-01)

T. Pokavanich

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Following the recent historical disastrous tsunami events and knowing that the Arabian Gulf is tectonically active, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KJSR) resolved to consider the risk and the hazards of such events in the Arabian Gulf and, in particular, to Kuwait. Therefore, such study, even with low or unknown risks that impose potential threats to the coastal areas, infrastructures and population of Kuwait, is serious and vital to sustain global economy and quality of life. The project will review the historical events, earthquake catalogues and up-to-date studies on seismic activities inside the Gulf region, along Makran subduc-

119 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | New Projects tion zone and around the Indian Ocean to identify tsunami sources posing potential threat to the Gulf region. Tsunami sources that impose potential threats, including both submarine earthquakes and landslides, will be investigated. The level of tsunami elevation, inundation and flooding hazard associated with these sources will be evaluated with the assistance of numerical simulations. Threat level maps of the areas along the coast of Kuwait will be developed showing impacts or potential tsunamis triggered by earthquakes and submarine landslides of different scales. Currents and oscillation patterns will also be analyzed inside bays and harbors along the coast of Kuwait. During this project, extensive training courses will be provided to transfer knowledge and expertise, and develop defined approaches for the fast evaluation of tsunami impacts in future events.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 54,450 Total budget: K.D. 159,710 Comprehensive Radionuclides Assessment and Monitoring Systems for Kuwait’s Marine Environment (P214-44SP-01)

S. Uddin

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The fresh water needs of Kuwait are met primarily through desalination. With a newly operational nuclear power plant (NPP) at Bushehr in Iran, and a few other NPPs to be built in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia, the establishment of a baseline for radionuclides in marine waters would be of paramount importance to Kuwait as this would ensure the safety of environment and, specifically, of desalinated water. This study aims to set a baseline and develop a monitoring system for marine radioactivity detection in Ku- wait›s marine area and at power and desalination plants. The specific objectives include the setting up of a baseline for iodine, tritium, thorium and radium and their daughter isotopes, cesium, strontium, uranium, and polonium in the marine environment, and the establishment and customization of an in situ scintillation system to act as a monitoring network. The radionuclides will be measured in seawater samples. The project›s outcome will include an integrated information system that can act as an early warning system in case of any radiological emergency.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 41,370

Total budget: K.D. 111,450

Restoration Potential of Selected Native Plant Species in Kuwait (P215-42SL-01) M. Suleiman

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Kuwait is an arid country, which is characterized by extremely hot, dry summers and moderately cool short winters with sporadic rains. Huge percent of land in Kuwait is degraded due to natural and anthropogenic factors. The virgin soil of Kuwait is non-saline but the brackish irrigation water induces salinity to the soil. Native plants can tolerate extreme temperatures and are well adapted for arid and semi-arid regions of the world. They are widely used in soil stabilization, reclamation of sand dunes, as shelterbelts, hedgerows and forages. The State of Kuwait is currently executing the large-scale re-vegetation programs to conserve the native: plants. This would require massive quantities of native plant material and efficient methods of growing quality seedlings. Hence, based on the adaptability and tolerance to extreme conditions of Kuwait Accia pachyeeras, Rhanterium epapposum, Farsetia aegyptia, and Haloxylon salicornicum are selected for the present study.

Therefore, the proposed project is expected to initiate a research program to evaluate the planting techniques, screen salinity tolerance traits of selected native plant species screen Rhizobial and free-living nitrogen fixer bacteria from rhizospheric soils of important desert plants; and to inoculate them with isolated bacterial isolates. This project will be accomplished through four technical tasks: a) evaluation of planting techniques; b) screening of salinity tolerance traits in native plants; c) effect of Rhizobial and free-living N2 fixer bacterial inoculation; and d) lab Analysis. This is in addition to three management tasks on mobilization, statistical analysis and evaluation of results and reporting.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 44,450

Total budget: K.D. 95,340

120 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | New Projects

Ecological Assessment and Restoration Plan of Terrestrial Biodiversity in Umm Al Namil Island, Kuwait (P215-42SL-03) S. Asem

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Umm Al-Namil is an unoccupied island in Kuwait Bay, composed of low profile dunes and lowlands of shell sand-marl soils. The plant diversity of the island is high with an estimate of 27 taxa, excluding annuals and with a number of flowering species. Proximity to the mainland usually results in fire, littering and general despoilment. This is damaging to the flora and fauna and is polluting the environment of the island and surrounding waters. Kuwait Environment Protection Society (KEPS) requested Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) to conduct a restoration plan on the island to conserve its natural renewable resources. The objectives of this project are to identify high asset areas in Umm Al Namil Island for biodiversity conservation, identification of damaged sites, and prepare a restoration plan and a long-term environmental conservation plan for the island. The proposed study will add immensely to the existing information on the vegetation and fauna of the island and will make a direct impact on the conservation and restoration of the island.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 45,250

Total budget: K.D. 98,250

Failaka whale skeleton to be housed at the Kuwait Scientific Center (P215-42SL-04) Environment Public Authority (EPA)

Abstract

The Environment Public Authority has hosted a number of experts from the Tokyo University of Marine Sci- ence and Technology and a number of experts from NISHIO Company, which specializes in three-dimensional modeling and taxidermy of whales and marine mammals in Japan. The effort aims to retrieve Failaka whale carcass to prepare a three-dimensional model using best world practices and scientific ways to be exhibited at the Center. During the first visit, the Team examined and assessed the condition of the skeleton and as- certained its species, sex and age using best practices to handle the skeleton. The EPA hosted the experts again during which time the whale’s skeleton was separated from the carcass and the process of reburial in a special container was completed to accelerate decomposition of its remaining tissues.

This project is a national project involving many stakeholders in Kuwait such as: The Environment Public Authority, The Kuwait Scientific Center, Kuwait University, Kuwait Volunteer Work Center, the Kuwait Envi- ronment Protection Society, the Kuwait Oil Company, the Kuwait Municipality, the Public Authority for Agri- culture Affairs and Fish Resources, Kuwait Fire Services Directorate, and the Ministry of Interior.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,873

Total budget: K.D. 9,873

Establishment of Mangrove Plantations - Phase II (P215-42WE-01) N. Bhat

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research in collaboration with Marine Environment Research Centre, UAE

Abstract

Mangroves inhabit the intertidal zone and play an important role in enriching the coastal biodiversity and marine ecosystems in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) introduced mangrove species in the l990›s and standardized growing techniques for grey mangrove (Avicennia marina) in Kuwait. In spite of concerted efforts by KISR over the years, one of the major challenges in the establishment of large-scale mangrove plantations in Kuwait is the very high rate (over 50%) of seedling mortality. Ideally, seedling mortality rates should be less than 20%. Additionally, based on detailed field and laboratory investigations, approximately 10 ha area of intertidal mudflats in the Sulaibikhat Bay and Kuwaitsat have been selected for establishing new mangrove plantations in this Phase II. Therefore, the overall objectives of this Phase are: reduce the seedling mortality to about 20% and establish large-scale mangrove plantations and study their impact on coastal environment and marine biodiversity.

These objectives will be accomplished through seven tasks, namely, mobilization (Task 1); hydrology and

121 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | New Projects habitat assessment (Task 2), standardization of production of hardened mangrove seedlings (Task 3), establishment of mangrove plantation. (Task 4); growth monitoring and sediment characterization (Task 5); preliminary impact assessment (Task 6); and reporting (Task 7). On-job training and a specialized training workshop in various aspects of sustainable growing and environment impact assessment of mangrove plantations under Kuwait›s environment will also be conducted during the implementation of the project.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 31,340

Total budget: K.D. 157,960

Mechanical and Physical Evaluation of High Content Waste/Virgin Polyolefin Blends Exposed to Natural and Accelerated Weathering (P215-44EC-01)

S. Al-Salem

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research in collaboration with Equate Petrochemical Company

Abstract

Kuwait lacks proper segregation, assessment and recycling schemes for waste plastics. Plastic solid waste (PSW) is accumulated in Kuwait with the exception of some efforts of collecting and exporting some PSW to international waste recyclers. This proposed study is concerned with the development of resin blends from plastic waste films and virgin resins for usage in plastic film production. The ratio of plastic waste to virgin resins will be varied and the blends will first be screened based on a set of basic properties. In addition, since Kuwait›s climate is one of the harshest in the world due to fluctuating humidity levels, high temperatures and UV radiation, the durability of the service of polymeric articles must be investigated whenever a new resin formulation is used. Hence, the formulated blends will be tested after exposure to different spans of natural and accelerated weathering to determine the effect of local environmental conditions on the developed polymeric blends. The effect on mechanical and physical properties will be evaluated accordingly to arrive at an optimal blend based on the plastic products› integrity and durability.

Since the price of PSW is very low, compared with virgin resins, the development of high content waste blends serves the local plastic conversion industry in reducing production costs. In addition, they reduce the carbon footprint of plastics by prolonging their life cycle and provide partial solution to the accumulating waste problem in Kuwait. This study of waste/virgin blends of polymers in Kuwait is the first step in developing mechanical recycling schemes in Kuwait for plastic films.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 19,665

Total budget: K.D. 127,435

Calibration and Validation of NASA (SMAP) Satellite for the Retrieval of Soil Moisture and the Application to Environmental Modeling in Kuwait (Phase 2) (P215-44SP-01)

H. Al-Jassar

Kuwait University in collaboration with NASA, U.S.A.

Abstract

NASA has successfully launched its Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMA P) satellite in January 31, 2015. The SMAP has two microwave sensors, one active (Radar) and one passive

(Radiometer). Radiometer operating at L band (1 .4 I GHz) and Synthetic Aperture Radar operating at L-band (1 .20 GHz).The SMAP mission science requirements include specifications on accuracy, spatial resolution , and temporal revisit for the soil moisture measurements as i t is a key parameter for the evolution of weather and climate particularly over continental regions. In Kuwait, these observations are critical for several applications, like dust storm prediction and monitoring, a ir quality and human health.

This project was divided into two Phases. During Phase I of this project, pre-launch activities of SMAP was done in Kuwait for cal/val activity and conducted field work activities throughout 2013-2014. The field work activities indicate TOR measurements and variation of volumetric soil from 0.17 m3 m-3 in January, 2014 to 0.015 m3 m-3 in June, 20 14. Soil roughness was estimated using a pin profilometer and was found to vary from 0.2 to 0.7 RMS with a correlation length ranging from 91 cm to 93 cm. Volumetric soil moisture data

122 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Environment | New Projects from several satellites such as SMOS, Aqua and GCOMW-1 were analyzed and compared with field work data. MODIS images over the SMAP grid cells in Kuwait were obtained from the ROPME Ground Station, which indicate greater homogeneity over Kuwait desert. Now we aregoing to start Phase 2 to verify and improve the performance of algorithms and validate the accuracy of soil moisture retrieval in the post-launch part. Scatterometer, radiometer, Laser Profilometer, automated weather stations, and soil moisture networks will be used for the validation/calibration of SMAP Satellite data.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 236,070

Total budget: K.D. 236,070

The Extent and Determinants of Student’s Perception of Sustainability in GCC Universities (P215-49TM-01)

M. Omran

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the nature of environmental world views of students studying with GCC universities. The specific purpose is to identify students› underlying environmental attitudes/knowledge and to determine the impact of Education for Sustainability (EfS) interventions in the curriculum. In this study, individual New Environmental Paradigm (NEP) scale scores are averaged across all 15 items and also will be calculated as an average for each of the five dimensions of the NEP. We expect students› NEP scale scores to be affected by geographic region (culture), age, gender, and EfS intervention. The results of the analysis of the mean scores and relationships with other variables will be reported for both the control and intervention groups. This study expects that sustainability values, attitudes and behaviors differ widely among tertiary students, based on their gender, age, whether studying on or off campus, as well as the region in which they have spent most of their time. In general, female students are more likely to be more environmentally aware than male students. Students in intervention groups where sustainability is an essential component of their course are also expected to be more aware of the impacts of humans and the environment in a broader sense than students in control groups where the course had no sustainability element. This will be confirmed by results of quantitative analysis, which expects that Education for Sustainability (EfS) will have a significant and positive impact on student perceptions and attitudes towards sustainability issues values and views, compared to students in control groups.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 6,700

Total budget: K.D. 17,700

123 Water & Energy Program Completed Projects 2 Ongoing Projects 14 New Projects 14

124 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy

Research Projects Directed toward Kuwait’s Future Sustainability

KFAS invested major research funds in addressing critical national concerns related to water and energy resources and its conservation and consumption patterns, which were expected to have significant implications on the State’s decision-making policies. Ongoing researches resorted to site surveys, field explorations, samplings, literature surveys, numerical modeling and laboratory analysis for arriving at vital referential statistics and parameters, as well as in-depth understanding and guidelines for suitable implementation measures. Project tasks focused on developing optimal design parameters and operational systems to promote efficient power generation, water production and potential energy applications. Research reports documented details of successfully assessing the quantity and quality of influent and effluent wastewater, using modern techniques and technologies. The Water Research Center at KISR initiated work on exploring ground water production at major aquifers, as well as the available brackish water resources in the country. In response to the national need for alternate/renewable energy in the State, researches persevered in exploring, designing, constructing and operating photovoltaic energy systems that will guarantee optimal energy generation in public places as well as domestic households.

A series of scientific collaborations with international institutions (NASA, MIT, etc.) paved way for vital scientific partnerships with regional counterparts, thus providing greater opportunities for excellence in research, as well as capacity-building of young researchers. Research reports documented desert sub-surface explorations, bench-scale studies concentrating on exhaustive and comprehensive hydrodynamic, thermodynamic and heat-transfer testing. Rigorous efforts in data collection, interpretations and analyses provided the basis for preliminary geo-statistical mapping and numerical/conceptual/mathematical modeling.

Great emphasis and efforts continued to be invested in applied research, the results of which were expected to significantly impact the progress of national industries, and, subsequently, the economy, public health and hence, the quality of life. New initiatives, such as in polymer research, were expected to have vital implications on the national industrial sectors (petroleum and natural gas).

Among the several initiatives supported by KFAS, the promotion of future sustainability featured as an essential goal, with focus also on the implementation of campus sustainability programs at higher academic and research institutions. During the year, KFAS-sponsored Kuwait-MIT signature project, “Sustainability of Kuwait’s Built Environment”, which was devoted to exploring innovative methods and solutions, reported on progressing investigations. Concerted efforts were launched this year to accomplish a green and clean environment in the State; scientific applications focused on designing and optimization of communication networks to achieve green and energy-efficient communications networks.

125 Completed Projects

A Study on the Identification and Control of Filamentous Bacteria in Waste-Wa- ter Treatment Plants in Kuwait (2012-1405-02)

A. Abusam, F. Al-Salameen, A. Mydlarczyk and M. Ahmed

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The project provided the design and operational data of Riqqa and Umm Al-Haiman activated sludge systems, the types of filamentous bacteria kits used, the assessment of the systems’ performance, the significant associations between filamentous bacteria and systems’ design and operation, as well as the main conclusions and recommendations of the study.

During the study period, six different types of VIT kits that are based on a modern molecular biology technique (Vermicon-Identification-Technology (VIT)) were procured from Vermicon Inc., Munich, Germany to identify and quantify the dominant filamentous Filamentous bacteria groups in the above mentioned treatment plants. Identification and quantification of the filamentous Filamentous bacteria was carried out according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Multivariate statistical analysis was used to reduce the huge datasets generated from the study to enable the extraction of useful information that helps in an objective assessment of the growth of Filamentous bacteria in the activated sludge systems that were investigated through correlation and principal component analysis, statistically significant associations between the identified Filamentous bacteria, influent quality, system operating variables and effluent quality.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 62,640

Total budget: K.D. 97,410

126 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | Completed Projects

A Baseline Screening Survey of Human Pharmaceuticals in Wastewater Treat- ment Plants in Kuwait (2012-2405-01)

B. Gevao, M. Porcelli and M. Al-Bahloul

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Human pharmaceuticals entering the environment have been recognized as emerging contaminants of concern, particularly for aquatic organisms. They primarily reach the environment through effluent from wastewater treatment plants following excretion from the body in urine and faeces. This study was carried out to provide baseline information on the concentrations of these compounds in wastewater and surface water, and to undertake a comparative assessment of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in Kuwait for their efficiencies at removing these compounds. Wastewater samples were collected from the influent and effluent streams of two WWTPs in normal operation in Kuwait, selected emergency outfalls, sea, bottled, and tap water. The samples were analyzed for pharmaceuticals covering a wide range of therapeutic classes including antibiotics, analgesics, hormones, tranquilizers, diuretics, lipid lowering and cholesterol regulating statins and antihypertensive medication among others.

The concentrations of pharmaceuticals measured in the influents in all WWTPs were higher than those measured in effluents. The highest concentrations measured in influents were mostly the analgesics/anti-inflammatory drugs acetaminophen, salicylic acid, ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac, ; the antibiotic ciprofloxacin, the lipid regulator/cholesterol lowering statin drug bezafibrate, and the hypertensive medication valsartan, and caffeine, all present in influents at theµ g/L levels. In effluents, the compounds present in the highest concentrations were also same as the analgesics found in high concentrations in the influents, namely the antibiotic ciprofloxacin, the lipid regulator/cholesterol lowering statin drug bezafibrate,β -blocking agents, the diuretics furosemide, iopromide, the psychiatric drug, Carbamazepinecarbamazepine, and the hypertensive medication, valsartan. The concentrations of hormones were largely below the method detection limits in most samples.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 49,830

Total budget: K.D. 81,710

127 Ongoing Projects

Assessment of the Hydrological and Hydro-chemical Interaction between the Main Aquifers in Southern Kuwait (2009-2505-02)

K. Hadi, M. Al-Senafy, S. Kumar, A. Al-Khalid, K. Al-Fahad and H. Bhandary

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

The Dammam Formation and the overlying Kuwait Group are the two main aquifers that yield useable groundwater (where water salinity is <5000 mg/1) in Kuwait. Recent studies indicate that the large-scale exploitation of this brackish water resource in Kuwait generates major changes in the flow directions of groundwater in these aquifers. As a result, the hydrochemical equilibrium is expected to be disturbed, and some impact on the quality of the produced groundwater is expected. Accordingly, the Natural Water Re- sources Development and Protection Program of the Water Research Center at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) initiated this project on 1st October 2011 for a duration of 60 months with partial funding received from the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). The project aims to assess the impact of groundwater production on the potentiometry, hydrochemical equilibrium in the aquifers and on the produced water quality to ensure the continued, and sustainable management of the available brackish water resources of the country.

The report from 1st April 2015 to 31st December 2015 describes the activities of Task 2 (Drilling of New Wells for Data Collection) under which the drilling and development of six injection wells and seven observation wells have been completed. Upon the completion of the development of wells, Task 3 (Pumping and Tracer Tests), Task 4 (Water Level Measurement and Groundwater Sampling), Task 5 (Laboratory Analyses of Water and Core Samples), Task 6 (Evaluation of Data) and Task 7 (Reporting) were partially carried out.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 150,000

Total budget: K.D. 305,980

128 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | Ongoing Projects

Household’s Conservation Behavior: A Case of Electricity and Water Demand in Kuwait (2010-1112-02)

N. Burney and M. Al-Enezi

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

Total electricity and water consumption in Kuwait has risen sharply during the last four decades. This has been the direct result of many factors, including heavy subsidy on electricity and water consumption. It was estimated that between 1996/97 and 2006/07, annual subsidy on electricity and water consumption averaged approximately KD 1 billion. To meet the increasing demand, the authorities have pursued a policy of expanding the electricity generation and seawater desalination capacities on a regular basis. At the same time, the country’s hydrocarbon resources (i.e., crude oil and natural gas) are being increasingly used domestically to produce electricity and water. In recent years, 10% of the country’s annual production of crude oil and natural gas was used in the power plants. If the electricity and water consumption were allowed to grow unchecked, then more of the country’s hydrocarbon resources will be used domestically, thereby leaving less quantity for exports and at the same time negatively impacting the environment through burning of fossil fuels. The main objectives of this study, which is first of its kind for Kuwait, are to establish patterns for electricity and water consumption in Kuwait over a 12-month cycle, assess the behaviors of different population groups within Kuwait regarding consumption and conservation of electricity and water, and develop a set of policy recommendations for managing electricity and water consumption.

Accomplishing the objectives requires collecting household level data on households’ electricity and water conservation and consumption behaviors. Accordingly, as a part of the study, during the year 2014, field work for the household survey was initiated. The sample for the survey consisted of 1500 randomly selected households, and the survey is being implemented in two parts. The first part consists of information on household composition, dwelling, appliance use, attitudes and practices towards electricity and water consumption and conservation, etc. The second part deals with monthly consumption of electricity and water over a 12-month period. The first part of the survey has been completed and the second part is on-going.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 55,000

Total budget: K.D. 141,590

Monitoring and Assessment of the Natural Attenuation of Hydrocarbon Pollu- tion of Fresh Groundwater Resources in Kuwait (2011-1405-01)

A. Mukhopadyay and M. Quinn

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

This study is aimed at the determination of the magnitude of natural attenuation of the hydrocarbon contaminants in the freshwater accumulations of the Umm Al-Aish and Al-Raudhatain areas in north Kuwait. It was initiated on 1st January 2012 with a funding from the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS).

The fifth round of sampling of 36 selected wells was carried out in March and April 2014. Between end-Oc- tober and early December of 2014, forty wells were sampled. In January 2015, groundwater samples from 15 wells, aligned along a line of transect in the Umm Al-Aish Field, were collected in sealed copper tubes and sent to the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (EAWAG) for age dating using noble gases and tritium. The inorganic and organic analysis of the collected samples was carried out in various laboratories of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR). Soil and groundwater samples from one uncontaminated site and one heavily contaminated site, two crude oil samples from the oil gathering centers in the study area, as well as weathered oil samples from the oil lake at the center of the Umm Al-Aish depres- sion and the oil collection pit near the monitoring well P-35R in the Raudhatain water field were collected and sent for hydrocarbon and microbial analysis at the laboratories of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CS1RO), Perth, Australia. The preliminary results of hydrocarbon analysis, microbiological investigation, and numerical modeling are reported. The results suggest that the weathering of petroleum-related hydrocarbon has produced polar compounds, including polar unresolved complex mixtures (UCM), present in the groundwater. The presence of hydrocarbon degrading microorganisms has been detected through the DNA analysis, –– further investigations on all of the above areas will continue.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 140,000

Total budget: K.D. 243,740

129 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | Ongoing Projects

Tracer Study of Groundwater Flow System in Kuwait (2011-2505-01)

M. Al-Senafy, S. Kumar, A. Al-Khalid and K. Al-Fahad

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

Kuwait has a very limited amount of useable groundwater resource. Although the general pattern of groundwater flow is known, the detailed patterns of the flow paths within the aquifer system are not known. Hence, a study on the deriving hydrogeologic parameters and characterization of the main water aquifers in Ku- wait, using tracer (natural and artificial) experiments, has been initiated. The project was amended due to the need for re-tendering of drilling and construction of groundwater wells and the project tasks were re- scheduled accordingly. This period also includes activities of Task 2 (drilling). Task 4 (tracer tests) and Task 6 (interpretation of tracer data).

Under Task 2, re-tendering was completed and the drilling bids were received from the Central Tender Com- mittee (CTC), reviewed, and evaluated. Based on the evaluation, the drilling contract was offered to Kayan Construction International Co. The drilling has been completed at Site-11, which is shared with the other project and is underway at other sites. Under Task 4, more literature survey was made on the various types of tracer tests and their methods. Based on the experience gained from the tracer experiments conducted in a few existing wells, a guideline for conducting the tracer tests was prepared. Under Task 6, literature survey on a few analytical and numerical methods of the interpretation of tracer test results, in terms of estimation of groundwater and direction, porosity, measurement of dispersion coefficient, and interconnectivity between aquifers was carried out.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 200,000

Total budget: K.D. 279,880

Desert Subsurface Exploration of Aquifers (Desert-Sea) - Phase 1 (2011-5401-01)

A. Aliewi

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

This project is a collaborative effort of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) and NASA/Jet Propul- sion Laboratory (JPL). We propose to address the hyper-arid desert aquifer origin, boundaries, dynamics and salinity by performing a comprehensive mapping of the subsurface hydro-geological structures in segments of the Arabian Peninsula, using dual-band airborne sounding radar combined with both Lidar and Transient Electromagnetic Method to support data interpretation. The project is analogous to the NASA Ice-Bridge airborne experiment but oriented toward understanding the desert subsurface. We will build a high-sensitivity Desert Penetrating Radar (DPR) that will be operated from a P3-B airborne platform for large-scale mapping as well as on a helicopter for high-resolution mapping. The proposed effort will be performed in five years, where in the first two years we will be building the radar sounder and in the third year we will integrate the radar with the airborne platform and conduct engineering test flights in Kuwait. The fourth and fifth year will be dedicated to the science acquisition campaign over the Dammam Aquifer and the Empty Quarter desert in Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates.

This project addresses the preparatory phase (Phase I), which will include initial surveys in Kuwait using the existing NASA Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to enable more accurate design parameters for the DPR. These surveys will be conducted using the Eurocopter AS-365 N3 Dauphin covering wide variety of aquifer conditions. Ground surveys will also be conducted using both GPR and TEM. Also in this phase, partnerships with regional scientific counterparts will be established. A key element of this phase will be capacity-building through formal and informal training, so that KISR hydrologists become more familiar with the radar and how JPL carries out an investigation of this nature. JPL scientists and engineers in turn can become more familiar with the real-world problems facing arid region hydrologists.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 300,000

Total budget: K.D. 313,860

130 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | Ongoing Projects

Investigation of Plate Heat Exchanger Applications in Multiple Distillation: A Bench Scale Study (2012-1505-01)

G. Al-Nuwaibit and E. El-Sayed

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

The main aim of this project is to furnish very important and much needed technical knowledge base on the Plate Heat Exchanger PHE-based Multiple Effect Desalination MED process, which will serve as a platform for further development and deployment of this technology in Kuwait and the Gulf region. The project involves design and construction of a bench-scale test unit, exhaustive hydrodynamic, thermodynamic and heat transfer testing; data interpretation and analysis leading to the development of a roadway for a more comprehensive pilot-scale phase II project, which is considered an essential step for the actual implementation of the PHE-MED technology on a commercial scale.

The scope of work in this project includes five tasks. The first of these tasks is concerned with the design, construction and procurement of the bench scale test unit, which will be used in conducting the exhaustive experimental testing program. The first progress report highlights the progress related to the preparation of test unit process flow diagrams, manufacturing specifications, tendering and the purchase process.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 31,600

Total budget: K.D. 171,000

Assessment of the Potential Impacts of Oil Produced Water on the Groundwa- ter and the Agricultural Crops in Al-Wafra Area (2012-2505-01)

M. Al-Murad and T. Saeed

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

The main activities during the reported period were the approval of the contract to construct the monitoring wells by the Central Tenders Committee (CTC). The continuous multilevel tubes (CMT) and their accessories were purchased from Canada. Collection of field and reported data about the groundwater quality, especially at the western part of the Wafra agricultural area and adjacent to the fence of the oilfield, was done. The collected data were used to prepare an initial kriged geostatistical map for the distribution of the total dissolved solids (TDS), used to select the locations of the monitoring well that will be constructed in this project. Seventeen CMT wells were constructed. After the construction of each well, a groundwater sample was collected from each zone. The TDS was measured for each sample and the initial map was refined to select the new well location. Thirty-eight crop samples were collected from farms using groundwater for irrigation. The initial results of the analysis of the TDS showed a high concentration of the TDS in the 7th zone in all the wells constructed along the fence of the oil well field, and the concentrations reduced as the wells became far from the fence towards the east of the fence. The initial TDS results defined the distribution of the plume in the 7th zone. Up until the end of this reporting period, no analysis of the crops has yet been carried out. Henceforth, groundwater, samples, levels, crops, and fish samples will be collected and analyzed. The work in the numerical model will start soon.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 89,480

Total budget: K.D. 134,440

Assessment and Prediction of Urbanization Impacts on Sub-Surface Ground- water Levels and Quality in Kuwait (2012-2505-02)

M. Al-Murad and S. Uddin

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

The activities covered entailed the collection of data related to water table, subsurface water quality, sources and sinks to and from the aquifer system. Sixty (60) monitoring wells were constructed and sampled for the water table depth and subsurface water for water quality analysis. Also, a satellite image was procured to

131 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | Ongoing Projects estimate the land cover, evotranspiration rate, and irrigation water requirement. The collected water samples from 31 constructed monitoring wells were analyzed. Using the geostatistical software maps of the surface elevation of the study area, hydraulic conductivity of the Kuwait Group aquifer and the Dammam Formation, subsurface water levels for every five years from 1987 to 2014 beneath Kuwait and Jahra cities were prepared. Also, the distribution of the H2S concentration beneath Kuwait City was mapped. These maps were prepared to be used in the numerical model MODFLOW Flex 2013.1 version. Some of the geostatistically mapped data were entered in the MODFLOW software in its conceptual model section.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 130,330

Total budget: K.D. 209,010

Development of an Optimal Implementation Model for Seawater Multiple Ef- fect Distillation Technology in Kuwait (2012-2505-03)

G. Al-Nuwabit and E. El-Sayed

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

This project is aimed at developing an optimal model to be used as a reference for future implementation of the seawater multiple effect distillation (MED) technology in Kuwait. The MED model is of a spray falling film horizontal tube heat exchanger type, with parallel and forward feed configurations, most commonly used in the industry today.

The approach is based on establishing the basis for interaction between design parameters and efficiency of the MED systems for Kuwait’s operating conditions. The optimal model is meant to represent the interaction that yields a system with the best efficiency and with minimum requirements of the materials of construction and manufacture of the working space and surfaces. Other design parameters will include number of effects, heating steam thermodynamic state, temperature difference between the effects, feed water temperature and concentration, and process configuration in terms of feed water scheme; i.e., parallel or forward feed. The development involves mathematical modeling combined with comprehensive pilot testing over a wide range of fouling/operating conditions. For this purpose, a MED pilot unit will be designed, constructed, and operated to provide means of obtaining the needed measurements and operational data. Mathematical modeling and fabrication and site preparations for installation of the MED pilot unit were detailed.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 134,630

Total budget: K.D. 685,160

Energy Efficiency and Photovoltaic Systems Pilot Applications for Selected Cooperative Society Supermarkets (2012-5508-02)

A. Al-Qattan and Y. Al-Hadban

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

This is one of the pilot projects funded by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) within its initiatives to accelerate solar energy applications and its utilization in electricity generation to reduce dependency on fuel oil as a main source of income for Kuwait, and to minimize negative environmental effects resulting from the use of fossil fuels. The project came as the Foundation’s response to the Directives of H.H. Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait and the Chairman of KFAS’ Board of Directors, to prioritize the use of renewable energy sources in Kuwait and in an attempt to reach a target of 15% of electricity generated through renewable energy sources by the year 2030.

The project aims to promote and accelerate the use of solar energy for electrical power generation in addition to raising public awareness on the techniques that will be applied. Moreover, the project aims to improve the energy efficiency of the co-operative societies through:

1. Energy auditing and upgrading the lighting and air-conditioning systems in two co-operative societies.

2. Designing and installing optimal photovoltaic (PV) system in the car park areas of the two co-operative societies and providing up-to-date means to display and monitor the performance of the system while enabling public awareness through the visitors’ interaction with the project.

132 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | Ongoing Projects

The PV systems were designed in an optimal way to reach the highest levels of electrical power production for car park areas in two co-operative societies with a total capacity of 1000 kWp, in addition to energy auditing and improving the efficiency of air-conditioning and lighting systems which are deemed to be high energy consuming systems.

An opening ceremony was launched in Al-Zahraa Co-operative Society under the patronage of the Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, Mrs. Hind Subaih Barrak Al-Subaih and in the presence of several decision makers and concerned parties. Al-Zahraa has been considered the first Co-op in Kuwait to apply renewable energy in its carport and with the cooperation of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), National Technolo- gy Enterprises Company (NTEC) and the Ministry of Electricity and Water.

The capacity of electricity generated by the PV cells at Al-Zahra COOP Co-op will reach 1,270 MWh per year. The project will save around 2,150 MWh annually, which is equivalent to K.D. 60,000 per year in pure savings to for the State of Kuwait. The project will also mitigate around 2,000 tons of Carbon Dioxide emissions annually.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 2,000,000

Total budget: K.D. 2,000,000

Assessment of Seawater Treatment at Sabiya Station Using Mechanical Pro- cesses (2013-1505-01)

Y. Al-Wazzan, M. Abdel-Jawad and M. Ahmed

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Project Progress - Abstract

Long-term performance of power generation and water desalination equipment depends on proper seawater quality. At Sabiya station, the seawater quality is very high in turbidity due to the high content of silt and sand. Currently, the quality of seawater at Sabiya causes inconvenience to the operation and maintenance of the equipment at the station. Moreover, despite the availability of space for installing additional desalination and power generation units, the quality of the seawater limits the utilization of this site. The Ministry of Electricity and Water (MEW) has expressed its interest in exploring a reasonable treatment that can render the seawater to be fed with minimum silt and sand. The Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) has explored the possible treatment using mechanical treatments, such as, using centrifuge and and/or hydrocy- clone units, which have the potential to substantially lower the silt and sand concentration to an acceptable level, allowing the use of the seawater safely as feed for membrane and thermal desalination units, as well as for power generation equipment.

The main objective of the project is to assess the viability of enhancing the seawater quality for thermal and membrane desalination processes at Sabiya station. Progress was accomplished in the mobilization tasks, including installation and commissioning.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 55,900

Total budget: K.D. 182,000

Sustainability of Kuwait’s Built Environment (2013-5508-01)

MIT team: O. Buyukozturk, M. Buehler, S. Yip, N. Toksoz, T. Herring, C. Reinhart, J. Ochsendorf. Kuwait team: H. Kamal, A. Bumajdad, S. Al-Bahar, J. Al-Qazweeni, A. Hajiah, A. Al-Mumin

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Kuwait University

Project Progress - Abstract

The first Kuwait-MIT Signature Project, “Sustainability of Kuwait’s Built Environment,” is a joint project between Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), Kuwait University (KU), and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). It is funded by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) through the support of Kuwait-MIT Center for the Natural Resources and the Environment (CNRE). The project aims at the development of innovative methods and solutions for the sustainability of Kuwait’s built environment with a three-level multi-scale approach of materials, buildings and urban neighborhoods. The project includes three areas of research:

• Focus Area A: Innovative Materials (Nano-engineered construction materials), • Focus Area B: Performance-based Engineering and reliabilityReliability, and • Focus Area C: Energy Efficiency and Life Cycle Analysis. 133 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | Ongoing Projects

Accelerated progress has been achieved in Year 3 with full momentum in all three focus areas. In Focus Area A, microstructural characterization work was performed by all parties using advanced experimentation techniques. Computational material modeling studies progressed in parallel with the experimental work including investigation on the atomistic mechanical behavior of C-S-H under mixed mode loading and multi-scale description of cement paste systems incorporating volcanic ash.

In Focus Area B, significant progress has been made in ground motion simulation, development of a full scale finite element analysis model for the Al-Hamra Tower, GPS installation and data collection and processing. Seismic instrumentation design of the Al-Hamra building is completed and planning of actual sensor installation is now well underway. Software and data exchange have been established. Joint work, presentation and publications are progressing well.

In Focus Area C, progress is continuing and the Kuwaiti team has enthusiastically adapted MIT’s approach to comprehensively model apply the operational model and that embodied energy content of a neighborhood in Kuwait city using simulation models that are developed at MIT. A high-level symposium “Kuwait 2030” was successfully conducted on December 3, 2015 at KFAS, by participation of key Kuwaiti government representatives, industry stakeholders and KFAS executive members. Communication and collaboration between Kuwait and MIT research teams have been intensified, and monthly teleconferences are regularly held. Full cooperation among and between all groups have has been established, including inter-focus area interactions and joint publications.

Knowledge transfer and training/capacity building activities have been intensified, and the project is in its full productivity with established research teams producing results to fully achieve the expected outcomes.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 1,427,765

Total budget: K.D. 1,427,765

Building Integrated Solar Photovoltaics (PV) for Kuwaiti Homes (2013-5508-02)

A. Al-Qattan

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Solar energy is playing an increasingly important role in meeting the world energy demand. The growth in solar energy generation over the past few years has exceeded 20%. In response to the directives of His Highness the Amir of Kuwait to support renewable energy developments toward conserving Kuwait’s hydrocarbon resources and reducing the country’s carbon footprint, Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) is supporting an initiative that introduces solar photovoltaic energy to 150 Kuwaiti homes as a supplemental power generation.

The project emphasizes on the commercial barriers related to photovoltaic (PV) widespread deployment in the residential sector and on developing regulations and guidelines defining the relationship between government agencies, private sector, and homeowners. The project also serves to develop local capacity in the safe and proper installation and operation of residential PV systems and be a test case for future installations of residential PV systems. This initiative will mainly help to encourage the reduction of peak load demand and decrease the environmental impact of using carbon fuels for energy generation. This project addresses the design, construction, operation, and monitoring of a grid-connected PV systems for 150 Kuwaiti homes, at a rate of fifty (50) homes per year over the course of three years. The proposed plants will be designed to guarantee optimum energy generation, while maintaining a high standard of safety and aesthetic appear- ance

A steering committee was formed to oversee the implementation of the project to ensure high quality implementation. The committee consists of members from the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, Ministry of Electricity and Water, the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, in addition to Kuwait Municipality and Public Authority for Housing Welfare. Scientific and technical specifications and criteria were developed in order to select the suitable houses.

A media campaign has been launched to introduce the project, which was entitled Shamsna Al-Kuwait in conjunction with launching a special website for those wishing to register their homes. Several technical evaluation field visits were done to the registered homes in order to determine the first batch of houses. By the end of 2015, 1,450 homeowners applied online.

134 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | Ongoing Projects

A list of 10 VIP decision-makers homes were selected in order to encourage the adoption of this initiative in the residential and the private sectors at a broader level in the future.

Contract to be signed with homeowners is prepared.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 1,963,580

Total budget: K.D. 1,963,580

New Generation Brine Desalination and Management for Efficiency, Reliability and Sustainability (P314-75EC-01)

B. Al Anzi (Kuwait University)

J. Han. (MIT)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Kuwait University

Abstract

The aim of this project is to increase both energetic and environmental sustainability of Kuwaiti water management by developing/validating novel ideas and interfacing them optimally with existing plant workflow. Three major themes of the project are:

1. Electrical desalination for brine management: Capitalizing on unique advantages of electrical desalination for pre- and post-treatment of source water to enhance the efficiency of the existing desalination plant. This will serve as our primary application. Proof-of-concept systems will be tested at both Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Kuwait, coupled with a detailed techno-economic analysis toward optimized integration. We will use the strategy of multi-stage optimization, which achieves energy efficiency by minimizing irreversibility in the overall process through local management of concentration differentials.

2. Power generation using brine and wastewater: Pressure Retarded Osmosis (PRO) and Reverse Electro- dialysis (RED) are emerging, membrane-based technologies for recovering energy from concentration differences between water streams. We will examine the potential of using PRO and/or RED to recover energy from Kuwait›s desalination and wastewater plants while simultaneously reducing the salinity of the discharged brine by membrane-regulated dilution with wastewater and/or seawater. Coastal discharge configurations will be designed, and methods to fully mitigate the environmental impact of the discharged streams will be evaluated. This study will result in clear assessment of the potential of combining brine and wastewater discharge to lessen environmental impacts on the Kuwaiti coast while reducing the overall cost of water treatment through the recovery of renewable energy with reduced carbon emission via PRO or RED.

3. Engineering for Increased Reliability: We will also address the significant challenge of bio-fouling, scale formation, and particulate removal, by employing recent innovations in surface coating and microfluidic separation processes. Antifouling membrane coatings appropriate to the combined streams will be developed.

In its first year of operation, the MOU was signed by all parties on January 2015 initiating the kickoff of the project. However, the research fund was disbursed to MIT team only in April 2015, due to administrative delay. KU team, officially, joined the project on 10 June 2015. Despite this, the collaborative work started immediately and regular task meetings as well as the first team workshop in August 2015 at MIT was attended by KU researchers was successfully organized. During the first 6-9 months of the project, the three main engineering / scientific tasks are well under way, both at MIT and at KU. Most significantly, several direct collaborations between KU researchers and MIT researchers have been defined and launched, which will only be strengthened in coming months. From the time of launch, the project, enjoyed substantial amount of pub- licity, probably reflecting the timely nature of the project topic. In addition, we are already contributing scientific outcomes to international desalination meetings, widening impact to scientific community in general.

KFAS contribution: US$ 5,500,000

Total budget: US$ 5,500,000

135 New Projects

Design of Iptycene Polymers: A New Generation of Gas Separation Nanomate- rials for Energy Applications (P314-34SC-01)

B. Alameddine

Gulf University for Science and Technology

Abstract

The project proposes a controlled synthesis of microporous polymers for gas separation and purification applications. A deep investigation of the way these molecules self-assemble and pack in the solid state will be carried out by employing different cutting edge techniques. This study will permit for a better understanding of the polymer structure influence on the packing behavior and the gas separation properties.

This work is of high interest to many industrial sectors because it focuses on developing cost-effective and efficient separation polymers needed in the petroleum and natural gas industry, as well as in improving the performance of fuel cell devices.

In addition, the research presented herein will pave the way towards synthesizing on-demand macromol- ecules with specific properties, which is a major interest for many technological applications in the field of Nano sciences.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 96,600

Total budget: K.D. 153,900

136 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | New Projects

A National Green Campus Research Proposal for Kuwait Institution of Higher Education (P314-35EA-01) A. Al-Anzi

Kuwait University

Abstract

The purpose of this research proposal is to undertake the necessary capacity building, scoping, feasibility and engagement tasks over a one-year period, commencing spring 2014 to establish a national program to advance sustainability in Kuwait academic institutions of higher education and research. This national body, a National Green Campus Initiative (NGCI), will support the implementation of robust campus sustainability programs at leading pilot universities while also convening and coordinating best practice exchanges and sharing between all Kuwait universities.

The NGCI will target energy efficiency, green building design, water conservation, waste reduction, biodiversity, green transportation, and a systematic approach to social responsibility. These efforts will be bench- marked with other regional and international organizations. The focus of this effort is to reduce the environmental footprint of Kuwait academic institutions of higher education and research, position Kuwait in the emerging green economy by better preparing students, improve campus well-being, community outreach and public health and produce cost savings that will offset and exceed the implementation costs of the NGCI.

To achieve these goals, the project team will:

1. Support pilot programs at three partner universities.

2. Engage key stakeholders to advance leadership support for sustainability innovation within Kuwait universities and colleges.

3. Provide direct training and capacity building for local higher education leaders of sustainability.

4. Engage in workshops, conferences and meetings to engage staff, students and faculty from numerous Kuwait universities.

5. Produce a 3 Year NGCI Research Implementation Proposal that integrates the findings from the above four activities.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 40,050

Total budget: K.D. 91,950

Development of a Polypropylene/Nanomaterial-Based Composite Polymer Electrolyte Membrane for Hydrogen and Methanol Fuel Cells Application (P314-35EC-01) S. Lahalih

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Kuwait›s energy demand will increase to 250% of its current level by the year 2030. Therefore, the security of Kuwait›s additional energy needs to be accomplished through diversification of energy resources and exploitation of sustainable and innovative renewable energy technologies. The development of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) that includes storing energy and generating clean combustion electrical energy utilizing clean fuels like hydrogen and methanol is one of those methods. The use of PEMFC for stationary and portable applications results in clean environment and minimum carbon dioxide production, which are the demands worldwide to reduce the warming up of the climate. The current global annual revenue from fuel cells (FC) is about $2.0 billion. Despite the many advantages that the current PEMFC has, durability and cost are the two main barriers where polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) is the major cost factor. The most widely used commercial PEM is a perfluorinated polymer known as Nafion® that has a very high cost of about $ 1000/m2 and is limited to low temperature application of about ≤ 90°C. Other desired properties in PEM are good mechanical strength and good thermal stability at high temperature application. Therefore, the main objective of this research project is to prepare and characterize a low-cost (<$10 /m2) and thermally stable (up to 140°C) polypropylene/nanomaterial-based composite PEM to be used for hydrogen and methanol FC applications.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 39,100

Total budget: K.D. 108,700 137 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | New Projects

Ceiling-Mounted Personalized Ventilators Effectiveness in Reducing the Spread of Particles in Office Spaces (P314-35EM-01)

W. Chakroun

Kuwait University

Abstract

Now-a-daysNowadays offices are becoming more crowded with occupants with short distances separating stations, which increase the probability of respiratory cross-infection between workers via two different paths. One path is transmission through air resulting in direct inhalation of contaminant and the other path is through body contact of contaminated surfaces of furniture and walls. Significant relationship was shown to exist between particle pollution and people’s mortality and morbidity due to increase of risks of cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer and other health problems as asthma and a variety of respiration diseases. For this reason, multi-stations offices should be carefully designed to prevent cross-contamination between the occupants by both the direct and indirect paths while insuring thermal comfort. However, such solutions need to be implemented with consideration of efficient use of the space by minimizing the distance between the occupants and proper selection of an energy efficient system. Therefore, the challenge is to propose a practical energy efficient air distribution system that will prevent direct and indirect cross contamination between workstations when placed close to each other.

The aim of this work is to come up with a simple localized/personalized air conditioning system for crowded offices. The performance of three ventilation systems will be considered. These systems are:

1) Single personalized ventilation (PV) nozzle added to ceiling diffuser;

2) Single PV nozzle aided with desk fan; and

3) Coaxial PV nozzle integrated with a peripheral ceiling diffuser.

These systems’ effectiveness will be assessed with respect to preventing the spread of particle matter and reducing not only the inhaled fractions but also the number of deposited particles on surfaces in the proximity of the occupant. The energy saving will be quantified when compared to conventional system. The systems will be compared in order to come up with recommendations that could be implemented in the design and applications of personalized ventilation systems which would lead to improved air quality and reduced risk of cross-contamination in office buildings.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 54,100

Total budget: K.D. 125,520

Investigation of Cleaning Methods for Photovoltaic Systems under Kuwait En- vironment (P314-35EM-04)

F. Alzubi

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The accumulation of dust on photovoltaic (PV) systems highly affects the module performance where it can reduce the energy yield up to 32% for tilted modules and 82% for flat installed modules. The energy losses can be minimized by the frequent cleaning of the PV module, although the cost associated with cleaning can offset the cost of energy gained from cleaning. Therefore, this proposal investigates different cleaning methods and procedures for PV modules installed in Kuwait by means of outdoor experiment and modeling to derive the cost optimization for all tested cleaning methods. This will also include developing an automatic PV array cleaning machine. The effectiveness and cost associated with each cleaning method will be recorded and analyzed. A cost analysis will be carried out with the optimized cleaning procedure using the specific yield calculated from IEC 60891:2009 procedure 2 and then correcting it with a dust correction model. This will produce the predicted cost or each cleaning procedure with regard to the PV system yield optimized to the cost of the specific cleaning procedure.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 98,400

Total budget: K.D. 124,500

138 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | New Projects

Energy-Efficient and Sustainable Communications Network (P314-35EO-01)

M. Awad

Kuwait University

Project Progress - Abstract

The dramatic increase in the popularity of multimedia services has propelled the development of high capacity networks to support the increasing demand. This however resulted in explosive increase in energy consumption, operational cost and complexity. For network services to remain compatible and affordable, service providers have been exploring areas to cut-down their costs. Shifting part of their consumed energy to renewable sources is one of the promising approaches. This is aligned with Kuwait government target to generate 15% of its electricity demand to renewable energy by 2030. The variation in generated energy due to weather conditions challenges the sustainability of provisioned service in green networks. The design and optimization of communication networks to achieve green and energy efficient communications networks while sustaining stringent quality of service requirements is the objective of this research.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 61,090

Total budget: K.D. 179,292

Irrigation Studies in Date Palm (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) Phase II: Development of Precision Irrigation Scheduling Under Kuwaiti›s Environmental Conditions (P315-22SL-01)

N. Bhat

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The area under date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) cultivation is steadily increasing in Kuwait. Presently, large quantities of water (>200 m3 of water/ tree/ year with water productivity < half of desired level) is applied to secure optimal growth under Kuwait›s harsh environment. With limited precipitation and excessive ground water depletion, conservation of water is a national priority in agriculture development in Kuwait. Further- more, modern irrigation strategies are now available to conserve water and improve water productivity under arid environments.

Therefore, KISR initiated long-term irrigation studies in 2009. During the first phase, water requirements of young date palms were determined and three irrigation systems and levels of irrigation were evaluated. While these studies need to be continued until the commercial bearing age is attained, additional studies on the evaluation of new potential irrigation strategies are required to effectively address the twin national challenges; conserving water resources and improving growth, yield, quality, and water productivity in date palm. Hence, the second phase will include seven tasks aimed at developing precision irrigation scheduling using modern concepts such as variable irrigation rate, regulated deficit irrigation and subsurface irrigation systems.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 50,800

Total budget: K.D. 183,840

Efficient Separation of Dilute Oil Contaminations from Wastewater by Func- tionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles (P315-25EC-01)

N. Rezaei

Kuwait University

Abstract

There are several industries producing large quantities of dilute oily-wastewater for which the oil separation is challenging. Current technologies to separate the oil contaminants are compositional dependent, energy and material demanding, and expensive. They require large buffering tanks because of low selectivity, and frequent process maintenance in the case of membrane-based separation technologies. These challenges are intensified for large wastewater throughput and for conditions where the oil is in the form of tight microemulsions, has high viscosity, and has comparable density to the water phase (e.g. heavy oil-water mixture)

139 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | New Projects

Moreover, the presence of surfactants and solid contaminations add complexity to the challenge.

We propose a methodology to design Magnetic Nanoparticles (MNPs) with designed wettability, and to use them for encapsulation and separation of oil droplets from water using a magnet. The tailored wettability of nanoparticles will provide dispersibility of nanoparticles in the aqueous phase and allow them to accumulate the interface of oil droplets with water, in addition to MNPs stability. The magnetic force between modified MNPs and magnet accelerates the oil separation, which decreases the energy requirements for such separation process. Experiments will be conducted to investigate the effect of different variables, such as, emulsion size distribution, oil concentration. MNP concentration. MNP coating and magnetic field strength on the efficiency of oil separation. The o/w microemulsions will be prepared using a high-shear mixer. The stability of oil-water- surfactant mixture, and the size distribution of oil droplets will be analyzed by light-scattering technique. We will use SEM, XRD and TEM to analyze the MNPs size morphology and roughness.

We believe that our proposed idea will significantly benefit industries in recycling oily wastewater to minimize the footprint; this is of course, of critical importance to Kuwait, which is among the countries with lowest available water per capita. It will also help Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) with water availability for an increase in the oil production capacity of waterflooding (for conventional oil) and steam-assisted gravity drainage-SAGD (for heavy oil formations) in long-term strategic planning.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 9,950

Total budget: K.D. 9,950

Measurement and Characterization of Solar Irradiance and Climatological Fac- tors for Assessing Solar Conversion Technologies in Kuwait (P315-34SE-01)

M. Al-Rasheedi

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

This project aims to provide the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) with high quality solar data that will allow reliable assessments to be made of solar energy conversion technologies operating in the State of Kuwait. Data required to carry out full operational assessments include direct norm al irradiance (DNI), global horizontal irradiance (GHI), and diffuse horizontal irradiance (DIF), and other meteorological measurements such as wind speed relative humidity, precipitable water, temperatures, and atmospheric turbidity parameters relating to aerosol and water loading. Weather stations have already been established at five strategically located inland sites as part of the Government Initiative P-KISR-12 to measure the solar irradiance data and the conventional meteorological data (temperature, pressure, relative humidity and visibility). The two parameters aerosol and precipitable water, having the greatest impact on radiation transport in the atmosphere and therefore on solar irradiance received at the earth›s surface, will be acquired by adding a CIMEL sun photometer model CE 318-2 (with filters 340 nm, 380 nm, 440 nm, 500 nm, 675 nm, 870 nm, 939 nm, 1020 nm and 1640 nm) at the Shagaya station. Having additional aerosol and precipitable water data from spectrally resolved solar irradiance and sky radiance sun photometer measurements will enable Kuwait›s solar resources to be fully characterized over a period of a few years and an atmospheric radiation transport model to be fully tuned and calibrated for calculating solar irradiance data using conventional meteorological data (temperature, pressure, relative humidity and visibility) as input. In addition, a good characterization of Kuwait›s solar resources and a proven atmospheric radiation transport model will pave the way for future development of a solar irradiance prediction model for the State of Kuwait.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 63,727

Total budget: K.D. 155,234

Assessing the Feasibility of Offshore Wind as an Alternative Source of Energy for the Sate of Kuwait (P315-34SE-02)

W. Al-Nassar

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

The worldwide concern and environmental awareness created a move towards pollution-free renewable energy, particularly wind power generation. Wind is an abundant resource available in nature that could be utilized to mechanically power wind turbine blades. The offshore wind energy potential in the State of Kuwait

140 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | New Projects will be assessed using wind data (speed and the direction) recorded over a 5-year period gathered from several offshore weather stations scattered around Kuwait›s territorial waters. The source for this data is Kuwait International Airport›s seven offshore weather stations. Annual average wind velocity at the standard height will be recorded. Weibull parameters or the wind distribution function will then be calculated ultimately yielding the wind power density (WPD) in units of watt per square meter. The wind energy potential at an altitude of 30m will be extrapolated from the 10m height data using a power-law expression and compared to actual data recorded at the same heights on two different islands. The WPD distribution along the map of Kuwait will be drawn; this in return will show the optimum wind energy location for future windmill farms. Economic and financial analyses will also be conducted and a comparison between the Levelized Electricity Cost (LEC) of offshore wind energy generation will be compared with the LEC of conventional power plants.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 42,406

Total budget: K.D. 183,442

Synthesizing of MgH2-Nb2O5-based Nanocomposite Powder Particles for the Manufacturing of Hydrogen Storage System for Light Duty Vehicles, Phase II (P315-35EC-01)

M. El-Eskandarany

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

Synthesizing of hydrogen storage materials for fuel cell applications has recently become one of the most important scientific research activities in both energy and environmental sectors. Due to their high hydrogen storage capacity, light-weight metal hydrides such as MgH2 have the potential to be employed as principal materials for solid-state hydrogen storage system of hydrogen-powered vehicles. However, their slow hydrogenation and dehydrogenation kinetics and the high temperature values of hydrogen releasing restrict their real applications. The present project proposes reactive ball milling (RBM) technique for preparing ultrafine powder particles of MgH2-5Nb2O5 based nanocomposites with improved hydrogenation and superior dehydrogenation properties. In order to improve the kinetics of both hydrogen absorption and desorption and to lower the decomposition temperature or MgH2, small amounts (1 to 5 wt. %) of selected nanocatalysts (NL Pd, LaNi5, and ZrNi3) will be mechanically mixed with the synthesized MgH2-5Nb2O5 nanocomposite. The mechanism of the formation of nanocomposite metal hydrides and the nanocatalytic effect on the structure, morphology and hydrogenation properties of the synthesized materials will be investigated using advanced powder characterization techniques. Moreover, the present proposal aims to design, manufacture and bench test a prototype of MgH2-based hydrogen storage system for potential applications.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 91,750

Total budget: K.D. 280,430

Water Conservation – Pilot Project (P315-55EM-01) National Technology Enterprises Company (NTEC)- project manager. In collaboration with Ministry of Elec- tricity and Water & Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

Abstract

This pilot project is an initiative, aimed at saving water consumption; using limited samples of different types of residential facilities (villas, annexes and apartments). This will have a great impact on water consumption and fuel used to produce fresh water.

The pilot project consists of two main parts:

• Deploying water conservation tools and measurement components within residential facilities.

• Promoting public media awareness campaign.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 1,700,000

Total budget: K.D. 1,700,000

141 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Water & Energy | New Projects

The Underworlds Project: A Smart Sewage Infrastructure for Kuwait (P315-75EV-01) Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research and Kuwait University

Abstract

A vast reservoir of information on human health and behavior lives in our sewage, but this vast resource remains untapped. We envision a future in which sewage is mined for real-time information that can inform policy makers, health practitioners, and researchers alike. The Underworlds Project is an innovative, open, cross-disciplinary data platform for monitoring urban health patterns, shaping more inclusive public health strategies, and pushing the boundaries of urban epidemiology.

We propose to develop a prototype smart sewage platform, called Underworlds, consisting of physical infrastructure, biological and chemical measurement technologies, and the downstream computational tools and analytics necessary to interpret and act on our findings. The Underworlds Project consists of two activities:

• Building the Underworlds platform: The first stage of the project is to develop and validate prototypes of all components of the platform (physical, biochemical, and analytical).

• Collaborative MIT-Kuwait Application projects: Once the platform is established, we will work together with Kuwaiti stakeholders to implement a series of projects, ranging from infectious diseases tracking (influen- za, rotavirus, etc.), to the emergence of antibiotic resistance, to the effects of policy on public health (e.g., obesity).

KFAS contribution: K.D. 1,219,824.625

Total budget: K.D. 1,219,824.625

142 Grant Agreement between KFAS and The the Oxford Institute for Energy Stud- ies (OIES) (P315-75IC-01 and P315-75IC-02) Oxford Institute for Energy Studies (OIES)

Abstract

The objectives of this grant agreement is as follows:

1. To devote in-depth research by OIES staff and associate network of researchers in Kuwait into the following key areas:

• Current oil market demand-supply dynamics and its impact on Middle East producers.

• Domestic demand/supply dynamics in the GCC states and Iran regarding subsidies for conventional and renewable energy leading to sustainable energy policy.

2. To make the program›s research findings accessible to as wide a public as possible through OIES. All research produced under this program will be available for public access online, and is hence aimed to fuel academic debate and discussion with Kuwait and the wider region.

3. To offer capacity-building opportunities in cooperation between OIES and Kuwaiti institutions, in research and the final workshop, as well as via opportunities for visiting fellowships for Kuwaiti academics, as well as internship opportunities for Kuwaiti students.

KFAS contribution: K.D. 45,180

Total budget: K.D. 45,180

143 Index

144 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Research Grant Program

Completed Projects

Composting Poultry Waste 28 (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.

High Resolution Mapping and Positional Cloning of Metastasis Suppressor Genes in 29 Colorectal Cancer (Project Code: 2006-1302-07) Project Leader: F. Al-Mulla Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology.

Transport of Some Essential Trace Elements across the Human Placenta in Diabetic 29 Pregnancies in Late Gestation (Project Code: 2010-1302-03) Project Leader: N. Moorkath Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department.

A Study of Mechanism Involved in the Acceleration of Bone Healing in Head and Spinal Cord 30 Patients: A Clinical and Experimental Study (Project Code: 2010-1302-04) Project Leader: F. Khallaf Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Health – Kuwait Institute for Medical Specialization.

The Efficacy of Using Computer Assisted Language Learning Software as a Major 31 Component of a University EFL Program (Project Code: 2011-1110-02) Project Leader: C. Daniel Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, College of Arts and Sciences, English Department.

The Legal Status of Petroleum Development Agreements in International Law and the 32 Problem of Characterization: A Proposed Way Forward (Project Code: 2011-1112-01) Project Leader: M. Al-Saeed Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Business Studies, Department of Law.

Characterization of Point Defects in Heavily Doped Zn Te:Cu Thin Films Prepared by 32 Magnetron Sputtering (Project Code: 2011-1413-01) Project Leader: M. El-Akkad Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Physics Department.

Oral Microbiology Laboratory: New Prospects for Research on Oral Infection 33 (Project Code: 2011-5502-01) Project Leader: E. Honkala Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Dentistry, Developmental and Preventive Sciences.

Gulf Cooperation Council and Dispute Settlement: Assessing the Current Practices and 33 Developing Better Policy Responses (Project Code: 2012-1112-07) Project Leader: M. Nuruzzaman Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences Department.

A National Study of Behaviors and Attitudes towards the Sun and Skin Cancer in Kuwait 34 (Project Code: 2012-1113-01) Project Leader: E. Hamdan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Fawzia Sultan Educational Company (FAWSEC)

145 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

The Effect of Nutrition and Season of Breeding on Reproductive Performance of Naeemi 34 Ewes (Project Code: 2012-1207-01) Project Leader: S. Abbas Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Aridland Agricultural Production Department.

Advanced Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaics Research Program 35 (Project Code: 2012-1508-01) Project Leader: Y. Abdulraheem Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University and IMEC Belgium

Designation, Measurement and Localization of Knowledge Productive (Productivity) 35 in Public Institutions, Kuwait State (State of Kuwait) (Project Code: 2013-1103-03) Project Leader: K. Al-Hashash Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Center of Excellence

Study of E-Learning Readiness in Secondary Public Schools in Kuwait 36 (Project Code: 2013-1109-05) Project Leader: F. Al-Dhafeeri Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Educational Practice Center

Allies› Use of Photographic Propaganda to Influence Arabs during World War II 36 (Project Code: 2013-1112-01) Project Leader: J. Hayes Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, Business Administration Department

Face Recognition Using Thermal Imagery Characteristics 37 (Project Code: 2013-1510-01) Project Leader: N. Zaeri Affiliation/Beneficiary: Arab Open University, Faculty of Computer Studies

Symbolism and Inspiration in Modern Kuwaiti Literature: The Absurd Theater of Sulaiman 37 D. Al-Hezami, As a Case Study (Project Code: P114-11AA-01) Project Leader: S. Arkadan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, Humanities & Social Sciences Department

Cinema in Kuwait: A Critical Study of Development of Film Industry in Kuwait 38 (Project Code: P114-11AM-02) Project Leader: J. Malekpour Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, Mass Communication Department

Violence and Women in Kuwaiti Society: The Prevalence of Violence against Kuwaiti Women 38 and its Relationship to their Mental and Physical Health (Project Code: P114-11OS-01) Project Leader: H. Al-Kandari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Social Sciences, Department of Sociology & Social Work

Assessment of Iodine Status among Elementary School Children and Pregnant Women 39 in Kuwait (Project Code: P114-13MC-01) Project Leader: Q. Al Dowairy Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Health

Graduate Student Research Grant 39

Stock Structure of Carcharhinus Limbatus along the Arabian Gulf: Implications for Research 39 and Management (Project Code: 2011-6207-01) Project Leader: D. Almojil Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of Cambridge, UK

146 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Hydrodynamics of Nearshore Processes and its Connectivity to Larval Dispersal and 40 Settlement (Project Code: 2012-6401-01) Project Leader: M. Al-Najjar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Stanford University and University of Georgia, U.S.A.

Mixing Induced by Winter Shamals in the Northwestern Arabian Gulf 40 (Project Code: 2012-6401-03) Project Leader: F. Al-Senafi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Texas A & M University, U.S.A.

Corporate Governance Dilemma at Islamic Financial Institutions: The Effect of Conflict of 41 Interest between PSIA Holders and Shareholders - Kuwait Embedded Case Studies (Project Code: 2013-6103-01) Project Leader: S. Alhammadi Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of Reading, UK

Kuwaiti Female Labor Force Participation: Agency and Development Sustainability in Kuwait 41 (Project Code: P114-61IC-01) Project Leader: S. Garrison Affiliation/Beneficiary: American University of Kuwait

Ongoing Projects

An Assessment of the Real Estate Market in the State of Kuwait and the Expected Future 42 Behavior (Project Code: 2005-1103-03) Project Leader: A. Al-Othman Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno-Economics Division, Quantitative Methods and Modeling Department. Beneficiary: Union of Kuwaiti Banks.

Investigation on Some Aspects of the Biology and Ecology of the Endemic Ocypode Crab 43 Leptochryseus Kuwaitense in Intertidal Mudflats of the State of Kuwait (Project Code: 2009-1207-02) Project Leader: A. Behbehani Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences.

European and US Policies towards Inward Investment from the Gulf in Strategic Industries 43 (Project Code: 2010-1103-03) Project Leader: M. Thatcher Affiliation/Beneficiary: London School of Economics and Political Science

Design and Development of E-Learning Software for Math and Science of all Intermediate 44 Grades (Project Code: 2010-1110-03) Project Leader: N. Marafi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Education in collaboration Regional Centre for the Development of Educational Software (ReDSOFT)

The Role of Social Service in Achieve the Demands of Social Development in the State of 44 Kuwait (Project Code: 2011-1112-04) Project Leader: A. Al-Awadi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Association of Social Workers

Use of Estimated Average Glucose and Adipokines as Screening Tests for Categories of 45 Glucose Intolerance – The Kuwait Adipokines and Derived Average Glucose Study (KADAGS) (Project Code: 2011-1302-01) Project Leader: N. Abdella Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Medicine Department.

Studies on the Role of a Novel Nervous System-Induced Immune System-Released 46 Activating Agent (ISRAA) in Mouse and Human Brain Cell Cultures (Project Code: 2011-1302-02) Project Leader: A. Mousa Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University in collaboration with Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain

147 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Genetic Study of Early Onset Breast Cancer in Kuwait 46 (Project Code: 2011-1302-06) Project Leader: F. Al-Mulla Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology.

Production Management of Solution Gas Drive Partially Naturally Fractured Reservoirs 47 (Project Code: 2011-1504-02) Project Leader: F. Qasem Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Petroleum Engineering Department.

Replacement of the Old General Facility Equipment to Serve Research in Spectroscopy and 47 Sorptometry (Project Code: 2011-5508-01) Project Leader: L. Benkherouf Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science.

The Role of Insurance Policies in Limiting the Traffic Conjunctions Resulting from Minor 48 Accidents (Project Code: 2012-1112-08) Project Leader: M. AlRamadhan Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno-Economics Division, Private Sector Development Program Beneficiary: Kuwait Insurance Federation

Epidemiological Studies on Cryptosporidium and Rotavirus Infection in Livestock in Kuwait 48 (Project Code: 2012-1207-04) Project Leader: Q. Majeed Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Basic Education

Identification and Characterization of Post-Translational Modifications in the Raf Kinase 49 Inhibitory Protein: Implication for a Molecular-Based Therapy of Breast Cancer (Project Code: 2012-1302-01) Project Leader: M. Bitar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology.

An Association Study of Genetic and Environmental Factors Affecting Multiple Sclerosis 49 Incidence in Kuwait (Project Code: 2012-1302-02) Project Leader: R. Al-Temaimi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology.

Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Model Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Tool for Drugs 50 Development (Project Code: 2012-1302-03) Project Leader: H. Yaseen Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology

Establishment of National Unrelated Hematopoietic Stem Cell and Cord Blood Donor 51 Registry (Project Code: 2012-1302-04) Project Leader: S. Al-Shemmari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine

Associations of Telomere Length and Telomerase Activity in Patients with Acute Myocardial 51 Infarction (Project Code: 2012-1302-05) Project Leader: O. Mojiminiyi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology

Concomitant Anti-EGFR Antibody (Cetuximab) Plus Hyper-Fractionated Radiotherapy 51 versus Chemotherapy Plus Hyper-Fractionated Radiotherapy in Advanced Non-Metastatic Head and Neck Cancer (Project Code: 2012-1302-06) Project Leader: K. Al-Saleh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Health

148 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

National Sickle Cell Disease Registry 52 (Project Code: 2012-1302-07) Project Leader: A. Adekile Affiliation: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics Beneficiary: Ministry of Health

Sumudu Characterization of the Maxwell Eigenvalue Problem 52 (Project Code: 2012-1413-02) Project Leader: J. Madouh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Technological Studies, Electrical Engineering Technology Department.

Development of Carbon Supported Hydrodemetallization Catalyst for Kuwaiti Heavy Crude Oil 53 (Project Code: 2012-1504-01) Project Leader: M. Singh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Petroleum Research Center, Optimization of Petroleum Refinery Process Program

Development of Arabic Therapeutic and Communication Application for Individuals with 54 Dysphasia and Delayed Language Development (Project Code: 2012-1510-01) Project Leader: N. Al-Ghurair Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Science and Technology Sector, Systems and Software Development Department

Innovative Metal Vapor Laser Spectroscopy with Energy Applications 54 (Project Code: 2012-1513-01) Project Leader: Y. Makdisi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Physics Department.

A Mobile Unit for Detection of Breast Cancer 55 (Project Code: 2012-5302-01) Project Leader: K. Al-Saleh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Cancer Aware Nation

The Standardization of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children- Fifth Edition (WISC-V) 55 (Project Code: 2013-1109-04) Project Leader: F. Hadi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Society for the Advancement of Arab Children.

The Emergence of Flexibility: Towards A Comprehensive Theory for Transferring Experience 56 in Context-Dependent Learning (Project Code: 2013-1109-06) Project Leader: O. Hamid Affiliation/Beneficiary: Arab Open University, Faculty of Computer Studies.

Development of Antimicrobial Nanopackaging Films for Poultry Industry 56 (Project Code: 2013-1206-01) Project Leader: J. Ahmed Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Food and Nutrition Program

Composition of Steroids and other Lipid Fractions and Proteins. The Anti-Inflammatory, 57 Anti-Cancer Activities in Preparations from the Skin of the Arabian Gulf Catfish (Arius Bilineatus, Valenciennes) (2013-1207-1A) (Project Code: 2013-1207-1A) Project Leader: J. Al-Hassan and P. Yang Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University and MD Anderson Cancer Center

Composition of Steroids and other Lipid Fractions and Proteins. The Anti Inflammatory, Anti- 57 Cancer Activities in Preparations from the Skin of the Arabian Gulf Catfish (Arius Bilineatus, Valenciennes). (2013-1207-1C) (Project Code: 2013-1207-1C) Project Leader: J. Al-Hassan and W. Renno Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University and MD Anderson Cancer Center

Molecular Diagnosis for the Rapid Detection of Bovine Tuberculosis in the State of Kuwait 58 (Project Code: 2013-1207-02) Project Leader: S. Al-Mouqatea

149 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment & Life Sciences Research Center, Arid Land Agriculture Production Program

Magnesium Treatment on Inflammation in Disorders of Glucose Homeostasis 58 (Project Code: 2013-1302-01) Project Leader: N. Zghoul Affiliation/Beneficiary: Dasman Diabetes Institute

Cytokine Production Patterns in Osteoporosis 59 (Project Code: 2013-1302-02) Project Leader: F. Azizieh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

A Comparative Clinical Experiment between Speech Anxiety and Speech Restructuring 59 Treatment Approaches on Kuwaiti Adults Who Stutter (Project Code: 2013-1302-07) Project Leader: M. Alameer Affiliation/Beneficiary: Fawzia Sultan Educational Company (FAWSEC)

A Mixed Methods Approach to Understanding the Perspectives of Obesity in Kuwait 60 (Project Code: 2013-1302-08) Project Leader: E. Hamdan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Fawzia Sultan Educational Company (FAWSEC)

Graphene-Based Nanoribbons Polymers for Photovoltaic and Optoelectronic Applications 60 (Project Code: 2013-1506-01) Project Leader: B. Alameddine Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, Mathematics & Natural Science Department

Review Design of Concrete Structures: Evaluating Learning Effectiveness 61 (Project Code: P114-15EV-01) Project Leader: M. Jaeger Affiliation/Beneficiary: Australian College of Kuwait

Modelling and Design of Nano-Structures: Efficient Integral Equation Methods for Two- 61 Dimensional Nanoplasmonics (Project Code: P114-16SM-02) Project Leader: H. Kurkcu Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, Department of Mathematics

An Adaptive Population-Based Simplex Method for Heterogeneous Optimization 62 (Project Code: P114-18SM-02) Project Leader: M. Omran Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology, Department of Mathematics

Assessing the Impact of Western-Style Higher Education in Kuwait on Intercultural 62 Effectiveness and Business Communication Patterns (Project Code: P114-19TT-01) Project Leader: F. Al-Sumait Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology,

MAK - Modernist Architecture in Kuwait. A Systematic Inventory for the Preservation of 63 Kuwait Modern Heritage (1955-1985) (Project Code: P114-55EA-01) Project Leader: R. Fabbri Affiliation/Beneficiary: Dar Al Athar Al Islmaiyyah

The Dictionary of the Holy Qur’an (Special Project) 64 Project Leader: A. Al-Ghunaim Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences

150 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Graduate Student Research Grant 65

The National Accreditation Program in Kuwait: Its Development, Implementation and Impact on Quality Improvement in Public Hospitals (Project Code: 2011-6302-01) Project Leader: M. Alkhabbaz Affiliation/Beneficiary: Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, UK

Human DNA Profiling Using STR and SNP Genomic Markers: A Concordance Analysis Project 66 in the Kuwaiti Population (Project Code: 2012-6302-01) Project Leader: J. Adullah Affiliation/Beneficiary: Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain

Restoration and Management for Damaged Ecosystems in the State of Kuwait 67 (Project Code: 2012-6401-02) Project Leader: M. Abdullah Affiliation/Beneficiary: Texas A&M University

Potential Native Plant Phytoremediators for Restoration of Petroleum Hydrocarbon Polluted 67 Soils of Kuwait (Project Code: 2012-6501-01) Project Leader: S. Al-Ateeqi Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of Glasgow, U.K.

Investigation of Instructor›s Attitudes toward Using the E-Learning in Kuwait University 68 (Project Code: 2013-6109-01) Project Leader: A. Ashkanani Affiliation/Beneficiary: Dublin City University, UK

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Awareness among Medical Students, Residents 69 Physicians and Attending Physicians (Project Code: 2013-6302-01) Project Leader: H. Ali Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of Manitoba, Canada

Effects of a 12-week Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme for ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial 69 Infarction Patients in Kuwait: A Quasi-Experimental Trial (Project Code: 2013-6302-02) Project Leader: F. Al-Ansari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Swansea University, USA

Identifying the Functional Significance of IGF2BP1 Expression in Breast Cancer 70 (Project Code: 2013-6302-03) Project Leader: S. Fakhraldeen Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of Wisconsin- Madison, USA

Structure and Function of High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) 70 (Project Code: P114-62MB-01) Project Leader: F. Alkandari Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of Glasgow, U.K.

The Effect of Anthropogenic Disturbance on the Ecology and Physiology of Dhubs 71 (Uromastyx Aegyptius) in Kuwait (Project Code: P114-62SL-01) Project Leader: M. Al Sayegh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Arizona State University, U.S.A.

The Use of Alu Elements in Forensic Medicine: A Study on an Arab Population 71 (Project Code: P114-63MC-01) Project Leader: S. Abumarzouq Affiliation/Beneficiary: Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain

App-Delivered Therapy for Arabic Readers with Hemianopic Alexia 72 (Project Code: P114-63MC-02) Project Leader: S. Al-Ragam Affiliation/Beneficiary: University College London, U.K.

151 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Techno-Economical Evaluation of the Production of Bio Drugs: Study of Two Processes for 72 the Manufacturing of Recombinant Human Biodrug Interferon-Alpha (Project Code: P114-63MM-01) Project Leader: D. Al-Otaibi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain

Multiplying the Optical Fiber Channel Capacity through Spatial Multiplexing 73 (Project Code: P114-65EE-01) Project Leader: S. Alanzi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Florida Institute of Technology, U.S.A.

New Projects

Investigation of Switching Factors to Mobile Service Providers in Kuwait: A Field Study from 74 Customers and Mobile Providers (Project Code: 2013-1110-02) Project Leader: K. Rouibah Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Business Administration, Center of Excellence in Management

Composition of Steroids and other Lipid Fractions and Proteins: The Anti-Inflammatory, 75 Anti-Cancer Activities in Preparations from the Skin of the Arabian Gulf Catfish (Arius Bilineatus, Valenciennes) (Project Code: 2013-1207-1B) Project Leader: J. Al-Hassan, Faculty of Science Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University and Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto

Social Networks: A Tool for Family Interaction Displacement 75 (Project Code: P114-11OS-02) Project Leader: A. Dashti Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

The Effect of Dietary Probiotics and Prebiotics on the Performance of Broiler Chickens in 75 Kuwait (Project Code: P114-12SL-06) Project Leader: H. Al-Khalaifa and A. Al-Nasser Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department.

Outcome of Admissions to the Palliative Care Center of Kuwait 76 (Project Code: P114-13MC-04) Project Leader: K. Al-Saleh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Health

Studying the Genetics of Congenital Thoracic Anomalies in Consanguineous Kuwaiti 76 Families Caused by Cilia Dysfunction (Project Code: P114-13MG-01) Project Leader: D. Al-Mutairi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology

The Correlation between Acceptance of Illness and Quality of Life in Advanced Cancer 77 Patients (Project Code: P114-13MG-02) Project Leader: K. Al-Saleh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Health

Assessment of Body Composition of Kuwaiti Infants by Using Air Displacement 78 Plethysmography (PEA POD) (Project Code: P114-13MK-01) Project Leader: T. Al-Ati Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Food and Nutrition Program

Synthesis, Characterization and Theoretical Investigations of Water Soluble Cationic 78 Phthalocyanines and their In Vitro Studies for Photodynamic Therapy (Project Code: P114-14SC-01) Project Leader: S. Makhseed Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Chemistry Department

152 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Designing and Constructing a Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) for the State of Kuwait 78 (Project Code: P114-17IA-01) Project Leader: A. Gelan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno_Economics Division, Economic Public Policy Program

A Comparative Study of Corporate User-Generated Media and its Usefulness: Kuwait vs. 79 United States (Project Code: P114-17IM-04) Project Leader: D. Al-Saleh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

Career Strategies of High Potential Employee: Gateway to the Future 79 (Project Code: P114-17IM-06) Project Leader: I. Abdallah Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College Of Business Administration, Department of Management and Marketing

Challenges and Opportunities in Establishing Technology Commercialization Programs at 80 GCC Universities (Project Code: P114-17IM-08) Project Leader: M. Al-Fahad Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Business Administration, Center of Excellence in Management

Automatic Multi-level-Categorization of Arabic Text Documents 80 (Project Code: P114-18EO-01) Project Leader: F. Al-Anzi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Computing Science and Engineering, Department of Computer Engineering

Mobile Cloud Computing for Complex Mobile Web Services 81 (Project Code: P114-18EO-02) Project Leader: F. AlShahwan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Technological Studies

Top-Down Impact Analysis Approach to Quantify the Impact of a Change in Software 81 Systems (Project Code: P114-18EO-03) Project Leader: L. Tahat Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

Cloud Computing for Health Care Institutions in Kuwait 82 (Project Code: P114-18NH-01) Project Leader: I. Omran Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

English as the Language of Instruction at Private Universities in Kuwait and its Effects on 82 English Language Proficiency across the Curriculum (Project Code: P114-19AE-01) Project Leader: M. Tryzna Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

Towards a Unified English Technology-Based Writing Curriculum for High Schools in the 83 Arabian Gulf Countries: The Case of Kuwait and Oman (Project Code: P114-19AE-02) Project Leader: H. Al-Sharoufi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

The Earliest Sound Recordings of the Arabian Peninsula 1905-1909: Arabic Songs and the 83 Shaping of a Cultural History (Project Code: P115-11AH-01) Project Leader: L. Urkevich Affiliation/Beneficiary: American University of Kuwait

Rise of Kuwait: An Interdisciplinary Study of the Country’s Early Decades, 1750-1820 84 (Project Code: P115-11AH-02) Project Leader: M. Salvadore Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology 153 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Media Effect on Citizenship in the Gulf States: Case of Kuwait and Oman 85 (Project Code: P115-11AM-02) Project Leader: A. Dashti Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

The Role of Committee on Defense of Human Rights of the National Assembly in Kuwait 85 (Project Code: P115-11OL-01) Project Leader: A. Jamal Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

Biofuel and Side Products from Kuwait›s Microalgae 85 (Project Code: P115-12SL-04) Project Leader: B. Al-Hamar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biological Sciences

Statistical Predictive Modeling of Cytokine Profiles in Normal and Complicated Human 86 Pregnancy (Project Code: P115-12SL-06) Project Leader: K. Dingle Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

Knowledge and Attitude of Primary Care Physicians towards Palliative Care in Kuwait 86 (Project Code: P115-13MC-03) Project Leader: A. Al-Ansari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Health

Advanced Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaics Research Program (Phase II) 87 (Project Code: P115-15EE-01) Project Leader: Y. Abdulraheem Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Engineering and Petroleum in collaboration with IMEC, Belgium

On Construction of a Certain Maximal Parabolic Subgroup of E6 (K), for Fields K of 87 Characteristic 2 (Project Code: P115-16SM-01) Project Leader: A. Alazemi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Mathematics Department.

On the Construction of Certain Chevalley-Groups 88 (Project Code: P115-16SM-02) Project Leader: S. Aldhafeeri Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Basic Education, Mathematics Department.

The Impact of Regulatory Policies on Innovation: A Comparison between GCC and OECD 88 Countries (Project Code: P115-17IC-01) Project Leader: K. Elmawazini Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

Capital Budgeting Practices by Companies Listed on Kuwait Stock Exchange 89 (Project Code: P115-17IF-02) Project Leader: A. Al-Mutairi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

Assessment of Change Practices in SME›s Funded by the Government in Kuwait 89 (Project Code: P115-17IM-03) Project Leader: N. Alyaseen Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Economic Society

Development of an On-Line Dyslexia Test in Arabic 89 (Project Code: P115-18EO-01) Project Leader: G. Al-Naqi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Systems and Software Development, Technology Applications for Special Needs Section

154 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Enhancing Scientific Literacy and English Language Proficiency of Public High School 90 Students in Kuwait through Science-Based Writing Projects (Project Code: P115-19TO-02) Project Leader: M. Tryzna Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

Learners’ Motivation in the GCC to Study French as a Foreign Language: Cultural, Economic 90 and Social Factors (Project Code: P115-19TT-01) Project Leader: M. Hosny Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

Improving Student Achievement and Behavior with Professional Development Learning 91 Communities in a Kuwaiti Public School (Project Code: P115-19TT-02) Project Leader: J. Testerman Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

A Study to Establish Shelters for Women and Children who are Victims of Violence and to 91 Formulate Relevant Laws (Project Code: P115-51OS-01) Project Leader: G. Al-Ghanem Affiliation/Beneficiary: Women›s Cultural and Social Society

Efficacy of Yttrium-90 Time-Of-Flight PET/CT in Post Radioembolization Imaging of 92 Microsphere Biodistribution in Radiosynovectomy (Project Code: P115-93MN-02) Project Leader: M. Masoomi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Ministry of Health

Graduate Student Research Grant

The ‘Arab House’: Cinematic Representation vs. Social Reality 92 (Project Code: P114-61EA-01) Project Leader: S. AlMubaraki Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of California, Berkeley, USA

Is Prolonged Use of Ureteral Access Sheath Safe? 93 (Project Code: P114-63MY-01) Project Leader: H. Alenezi Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of Western Ontario, Canada

Assessment of the Effect of Artificial Sweeteners on Gut Microbiota and Glucose Metabolism 93 (Project Code: P115-63MM-01) Project Leader: S. Ahmad Affiliation/Beneficiary: University of Manitoba, Canada

Expression and Role of miRNA in Thyroid Cancer 93 (Project Code: P115-63MM-02) Project Leader: I. Jahanbani Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pathology

Methane Emission in Kuwait and their Isotopic Signature 94 (Project Code: P115-64SC-01) Project Leader: A. Alshalan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Royal Holloway University of London, UK

Developing an Integrated Strategy for the Assessment of Hazardous Substances in Kuwait’s 94 Marine Environment (Project Code: P115-64SE-01) Project Leader: H. Alsarawi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Plymouth University, UK

Software Defined Secure Ad Hoc Wireless Networks 95 (Project Code: P115-65EO-01) Project Leader: M. Alqallaf Affiliation/Beneficiary: Wright State University, USA

155 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

The Role of Hospital Alliances on Supply Chain Integration and Performance 96 (Project Code: P115-67IM-01) Project Leader: Y. Abdulsalam Affiliation/Beneficiary: Arizona State University, USA

Environment Program 97

Completed Projects

A Comprehensive Management Strategy for Long-Term Sustainability of Kuwait’s Shrimp 99 Stocks (Project Code: 2006-1207-15) Project Leader: H. Al-Foudari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Ecosystem-based Management of Marine Resources Program in collaboration with Public Authority of Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources

Metal Acquisition by Marine Algae and their Associated Bacteria in the Kuwaiti Coastal 100 Seawater (Project Code: 2009-1207-03) Project Leader: D. Al-Waheeb Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Sciences, Department of Chemistry.

Assessment of Maid Stock (Liza Klunzingeri) in Kuwait Waters 100 (Project Code: 2010-1207-02) Project Leader: A. Alsaffar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Ecosystem-based Management of Marine Resources Program

Pre-Commercial Scale Production of Dunaliella Salina: Induction and Extraction of 101 β-Carotene (Project Code: 2011-1207-03) Project Leader: T. Abu-Rezq Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Aquaculture Program

Properties of Mineral Dust in Kuwait’s Atmosphere 101 (Project Code: 2011-1401-01) Project Leader: I. Sabbah Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Health Sciences, Department of Natural Sciences.

Performance Evaluation of Gliricidia Sepium for its Potential Use in Kuwait’s Landscape 102 (Project Code: 2012-1207-03) Project Leader: H. Al-Zalzaleh Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Aridland Agriculture and Greenery Department.

Spatial and Temporal Variations in the Atmospheric Concentrations of the Newly Listed 102 Chemicals in the “Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants” (Project Code: 2012-1401-02) Project Leader: B. Gevao Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Environment Management Program

Hydrocarbon Pollution of Kuwait’s Coastal Zone: Differentiation of Petrogenic, 103 Anthropogenic and Biogenic Hydrocarbons (Project Code: 2012-1401-03) Project Leader: T. Saeed Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Environmental Management Program.

Multidimensional Assessment of Trace Metals and Criteria Pollutants Using Air and Water 103 Quality Indices in the Kuwait Environment (Project Code: 2012-1401-04) Project Leader: A. Bu-Olayan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry.

156 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Effects of Kuwait Crude Oil on the Behavior of Sobaity Sea Bream (Sparidentex Hasta) 104 (Project Code: 2012-1407-01) Project Leader: Q. Karam Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environmental Sciences Department.

Probability and Statistical Analysis of Total Suspended Atmospheric Particulate Matter in 105 Kuwait (Project Code: 2012-4401-01) Project Leader: S. Neelamani Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Coastal Management Program.

Promoting Eco-Literacy Dimension in Government School Curriculum in Kuwait 105 (Project Code: 2013-1101-01) Project Leader: O. Karar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Arab Open University

Feasibility Study for Establishing a National Gene Bank for Living Organisms in Kuwait 106 (Project Code: 2013-1207-04) Project Leader: S. Al-Bustan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biological Sciences

Ongoing Projects 107

Restoration of Pearl Oyster Resources in Kuwait’s Sea Bed 107 (Project Code: 2009-1207-01) Project Leader: F. Al-Hasawi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority of Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources.

Eco-Hydro-Geomorphological Modeling of Kuwait Desert Environment 108 (Project Code: 2010-4401-04) Project Leader: E. Eltahir Affiliation/Beneficiary: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Coupled Biosphere-Atmosphere Modeling over Kuwait 108 (Project Code: 2010-4401-05) Project Leader: E. Eltahir Affiliation/Beneficiary: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Biodiversity and Taxonomy of Kuwait›s Marine Benthic Dinoflagellates (Microalgae) 109 (Project Code: 2011-1207-05) Project Leader: W. Al-Rashed Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Ecosystem-based Management of Marine Resources Program

The Collapse of Kuwait’s Fishery Stocks: Analysis and Identification of the Causes, Data 109 Needs and Remedial Management Actions (Project Code: 2011-1401-06) Project Leader: M. Al-Husaini Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Ecosystem-based Management of Marine Resources Program.

The Biology of Marine Bivalves and their Environment in Kuwait, Phase I: Population, 110 Structure, Reproduction and Mitochondrial DNA (Project Code: 2012-1207-02) Project Leader: S. Al-Mohanna Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Department of Biological Sciences.

The Effect of Developments in Mesopotamian Marshland on Boubyan and Warba Islands 110 (Project Code: 2012-1401-01) Project Leader: Y. Alosairi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Coastal Management Program.

157 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Photocatalytic Oxidative Removal of Phenolic Compounds from Wastewater using Ozone 111 and Hydrogen Peroxide Produced by New Electrodes (Project Code: 2012-1405-01) Project Leader: H. Al-Kandari Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Health Sciences, Department of Environmental Health

Multidimensional Assessment of Trace Metals and Criteria Pollutants Using Air and Water 111 Quality Indices in the Kuwait Environments - Extended task II (Project Code: 2013-1401-02) Project Leader: A. Bu-Olayan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry.

Using Value Methodology for Deployment of Scrap Tires to Fight Desertification in Kuwait 112 and Ration Water (Project Code: 2013-1501-01) Project Leader: F. Al-Anzi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Computing Sciences and Engineering, Computer Engineering Department

Genetic Engineering of Alfalfa for Remediation of Soil Contaminated with Heavy Metals and 112 Residual Crude Oil (Project Code: 2013-4401-01) Project Leader: V. Kumar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Food Resources and Marine Sciences Division, Biotechnology Department.

Chemical and Biological Assessment of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in Waste and 113 Coastal Waters in Kuwait (Project Code: P214-42WE-01) Project Leader: Noura Al-Jandal Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Environmental Management Program.

New Projects

Spaces of Living: Urban Reflections of Kuwaiti Society 114 (Project Code: 2013-1401-01) Project Leader: S. Alshalfan Affiliation/Beneficiary: AGI Architects

A Feasibility Study Plan for Establishing and Operating a National Cleaner Production 115 Center (Project Code: 2013-4406-01) Project Leader: E. Al Eisa Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Engineering & Petroleum, Industrial & Management Systems Engineering Department

Levels of Pesticides Residue in Raw Milk and Selected Dairy Products in the Kuwait Market 115 with Emphasis on Public Health (Project Code: P214-42NM-01) Project Leader: M. Al-Fayez Affiliation/Beneficiary: Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, College of Health Science, Food Science and Nutrition Department

Genetic Characterization of Haloxylon Salicornicum and Rhanterium Epapposum Native 116 Plant Species of Kuwait by DNA Markers (Project Code: P214-42SL-02) Project Leader: F. Al-Salameen Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Biotechnology Program

Investigation of Soil Microbial Communities and Vegetation for Baseline Database 116 Development at Selected Sites in Kuwait Desert (Project Code: P214-42SL-03) Project Leader: A. Quoreshi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Desert, Agriculture and Ecosystems

158 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Quantitative Survey of Sargassum Macroalgae along Kuwait Coastline: First Step towards its 117 Bed Restoration (Project Code: P214-42SL-04) Project Leader: A. Alghunaim Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Ecosystem-based Management of Marine Resources Program

Biochemical Potential of Conocarpus Lancifolius to Uptake of Carcinogenic Polyaromatic 117 Hydrocarbons and Heavy Metals (Project Code: P214-42SL-05) Project Leader: R. Al-Hasan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biological Sciences.

Revision on the Marine Algal Flora of Kuwait with Special Emphasis on the Epiphytes 118 (Project Code: P214-42SL-06) Project Leader: R. Al-Hasan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biological Sciences.

Approaches to Enhance the Sustainability of Energy Systems in Kuwait: Environmental 118 Impact and Cost Estimation of Changing Fuels in Kuwait›s Electricity Grid (Project Code: P214-42WE-02) Project Leader: N. Alhajeri Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Department of Environmental Technology Management

Quantification of the Contribution of the Main Activities at the Shuaiba West Industrial Area 118 to Ambient Pollution Levels at Ali Sabah Al-Salem (Project Code: P214-44SC-02) Project Leader: A. Ramadan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Air Quality Program

Development of an Emission Inventory for the State of Kuwait 119 (Project Code: P214-44SC-03) Project Leader: A. Ramadan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Air Quality Program

Evaluation of Tsunami Hazards along the Kuwaiti Coastline Due to Possible Earthquake and 119 Landslides (Project Code: P214-44SE-01) Project Leader: T. Pokavanich Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Coastal Management Program

Comprehensive Radionuclides Assessment and Monitoring Systems for Kuwait’s Marine 120 Environment (Project Code: P214-44SP-01) Project Leader: S. Uddin Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Environmental Management Program

Restoration Potential of Selected Native Plant Species in Kuwait 120 (Project Code: P215-42SL-01) Project Leader: M. Suleiman Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Biodiversity of Terrestrial Ecosystems Program

Ecological Assessment and Restoration Plan of Terrestrial Biodiversity in Umm Al Namil 120 Island, Kuwait (Project Code: P215-42SL-03) Project Leader: S. Omar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Biodiversity of Terrestrial Ecosystems Program Failaka whale skeleton to be housed at the Kuwait Scientific Center 121 (Project Code: P215-42SL-04) Project Leader: Affiliation/Beneficiary: Environment Public Authority 159 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Establishment of Mangrove Plantations Phase II 121 (Project Code: P215-42WE-01) Project Leader: N. Bhat Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Desert Agriculture and Ecosystems Program

Mechanical and Physical Evaluation of High Content Waste/Virgin Polyolefin Blends Exposed 122 to Natural and Accelerated Weathering (Project Code: P215-44EC-01) Project Leader: S. Al-Salem Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Petroleum Research Center, Polymeric Product Enhancement & Customization Program

Calibration and Validation of NASA (SMAP) Satellite for the Retrieval of Soil Moisture and 122 the Application to Environmental Modeling in Kuwait (Phase 2) (Project Code: P215-44SP-01) Project Leader: H. Al Jassar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, Physics Department.

The Extent and Determinants of Students› Perception of Sustainability in GCC Universities 123 (Project Code: P215-49TM-01) Project Leader: M. Omran Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

124 Water and Energy Program

Completed Projects

A Study on the Identification and Control of Filamentous Bacteria in Wastewater Treatment 126 Plants in Kuwait (Project Code: 2012-1405-02) Project Leader: A. Abusam Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Research Center, Innovative Technologies for Wastewater Treatment and Reclamation Program

A Baseline Screening Survey of Human Pharmaceuticals in Wastewater Treatment Plants in 127 Kuwait (Project Code: 2012-2405-01) Project Leader: B. Gevao Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Environment Management Program

Ongoing Projects 128

Assessment of the Hydrological and Hydrochemical Interaction between the Main Aquifers 128 in Southern Kuwait (Project Code: 2009-2505-02) Project Leader: K. Hadi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Research Center, Natural Water Resources Development and Protection Program

Household›s Conservation Behavior: A Case of Electricity and Water Demand in Kuwait 129 (Project Code: 2010-1112-02) Project Leader: N Burney Affiliation: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Techno-Economics Division, Economics Studies Department.

Monitoring and Assessment of the Natural Attenuation of Hydrocarbon Pollution of Fresh 129 Groundwater Resources in Kuwait (Project Code: 2011-1405-01) Project Leader: A. Mukhopadhyay Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Research Center, Natural Water Resources Development and Protection Program

160 RESEARCH DIRECTORATE | Index

Tracer Study of Groundwater Flow System in Kuwait 130 (Project Code: 2011-2505-01) Project Leader: M. Al-Senafy Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Research Center, Natural Water Resources Development and Protection Program

Desert Subsurface Exploration of Aquifers (Desert-Sea) - Phase 1 130 (Project Code: 2011-5401-01) Project Leader: A. Aliewi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Resources Division, Hydrology Department.

Investigation of Plate Heat Exchanger Applications in Multiple Distillation: A Bench Scale 131 Study (Project Code: 2012-1505-01) Project Leader: G. Al-Nuwaibit Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Research Center, Thermal Desalination Technologies Program

Assessment of the Potential Impacts of Oil Produced Water on the Groundwater and the 131 Agricultural Crops in Al-Wafra Area (Project Code: 2012-2505-01) Project Leader: M. Al-Murad Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Research Center, Natural Water Resources Development and Protection Program

Assessment and Prediction of Urbanization Impacts on Sub-Surface Groundwater Levels and 131 Quality in Kuwait (Project Code: 2012-2505-02) Project Leader: M. Al-Murad Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Research Center, Natural Water Resources Development and Protection Program

Development of an Optimal Implementation Model for Seawater Multiple Effect Distillation 132 Technology in Kuwait (Project Code: 2012-2505-03) Project Leader: G. Al-Nuwaibit Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Research Center, Thermal Desalination Technologies Program

Energy Efficiency and Photovoltaic Systems Pilot Applications for Selected Cooperative 132 Society Supermarkets (Project Code: 2012-5508-02) Project Leader: A. Al-Qattan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research,

Assessment of Seawater Treatment at Sabiya Station Using Mechanical Process 133 (Project Code: 2013-1505-01) Project Leader: Y. Al-Wazzan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Water Research Center, Innovation Desalination Technologies Program

Sustainability of Kuwait’s Built Environment 133 (Project Code: 2013-5508-01) Project Leader: Oral Buyukozturk Affiliation/Beneficiary: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Kuwait University 134 Building Integrated Solar PV for Kuwaiti Homes (Project Code: 2013-5508-02) Project Leader: Ayman Al-Qattan Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Energy & Building Research Center, Innovative & Renewable Energy Program

New Generation Brine Desalination and Management for Efficiency, Reliability and 135 Sustainability (Project Code: P314-75EC-01 Project Leader: Bader Al Anzi and J Han Affiliation/Beneficiary: Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Kuwait University

161 New Projects

Design of Iptycene Polymers: A New Generation of Gas Separation Nanomaterials for Energy 136 Applications (Project Code: P314-34SC-01) Project Leader: B. Alameddine Affiliation/Beneficiary: Gulf University for Science and Technology

A National Green Campus Research Proposal for Kuwait Institution of Higher Education 137 (Project Code: P314-35EA-01) Project Leader: Adnan Al-Anzi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Architecture, Department of Architecture

Development of a Polypropylene/Nanomaterial-Based Composite Polymer Electrolyte 137 Membrane for Hydrogen and Methanol Fuel Cells Application (Project Code: P314-35EC-01) Project Leader: S. Lahalih Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Energy & Building Research Center, Renewable Energy Program

Ceiling-Mounted Personalized Ventilators Effectiveness in Reducing the Spread of Particles 138 in Office Spaces (Project Code: P314-35EM-01) Project Leader: W. Chakroun Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Department of Mechanical Engineering

Investigation of Cleaning Methods for Photovoltaic Systems under Kuwait Environment 138 (Project Code: P314-35EM-04) Project Leader: F. Alzubi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Energy & Building Research Center, Renewable Energy Program

Energy Efficient and Sustainable Communications Network 139 (Project Code: P314-35EO-01 Project Leader: M. Awad Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Computing Sciences and Engineering, Computer Engineering Department.

Irrigation Studies in Date Palm (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) Phase II: Development of Precision 139 Irrigation Scheduling Under Kuwaiti›s Environmental Conditions (Project Code: P315-22SL-01) Project Leader: N. Bhat Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Environment and Life Sciences Research Center, Desert Agriculture and Ecosystems Program

Efficient Separation of Dilute Oil Contaminations from Wastewater by Functionalized 139 Magnetic Nanoparticles (Project Code: P315-25EC-01) Project Leader: N. Rezaei Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait University, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Department of Chemical Engineering

Measurement and Characterization of Solar Irradiance and Climatological Factors for As- 140 sessing Solar Conversion Technologies in Kuwait (Project Code: P315-34SE-01) Project Leader: M. Al-Rasheedi Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Energy & Building Research Center, Renewable Energy Program

Assessing the Feasibility of Offshore Wind as an Alternative Source of Energy for the Sate of 140 Kuwait (Project Code: P315-34SE-02) Project Leader: W. Al-Nassar Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Energy & Building Research Center, Renewable Energy Program

162 Synthesizing of MgH2-Nb2O5-based Nanocomposite Powder Particles for the Manufacturing 141 of Hydrogen Storage System for Light Duty Vehicles, Phase II (Project Code: P315-35EC-01) Project Leader: M. El-Eskandarany Affiliation/Beneficiary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Energy & Building Research Center, Nanotechnology - Advanced Materials Program

Water Conservation – Pilot Project 141 (Project Code: P315-55EM-01) National Technology Enterprises Company (NTEC)- project manager In collaboration with Ministry of Electricity and Water & Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research

The Underworlds Project: A Smart Sewage Infrastructure for Kuwait 142 (Project Code: P315-75EV-01) Affiliation/Beneficiary: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research and Kuwait University

Grant Agreement between KFAS and The Oxford Institute for Energy Studies (OIES) 142 (Project Code: P315-75IC-01 and P315-75IC-02) Affiliation/Beneficiary: Oxford Institute for Energy Studies.

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