This article describes the application of GPS, image processing analysis and statistical tools for determination of forest structure and biodiversity. The idea is based on determination of forest area using GPS tools,...This article describes the application of GPS, image processing analysis and statistical tools for determination of forest structure and biodiversity. The idea is based on determination of forest area using GPS tools, then taking representative plots “samples” about 5% - 10% of the forest and counting the tree species in each plot (sample). This process enables the estimation of species population in each plot. The sum of all species population enables the calculation of relative density of each species. Multiplying species population with plot number of the forest enables the calculations of total species population in the forest. Calculating the relative density enables the determination of dominant, co-dominant, suppressed and flour structure of the forest. To determine the age of the forest, we apply our method on determining the diameter of trees and grouping them to four groups, this enables the estimation of dominant age within single species. From these data, we can estimate the age of the forest. This field protocol is easy and applicable and provides good results in estimating structure, age and biodiversity in the forest.展开更多
This study investigated the leaching potential of diuron and linuron in different soil types in Gaza Strip, Palestine under laboratory and field conditions. Leaching potential was evaluated by tin columns and bioassay...This study investigated the leaching potential of diuron and linuron in different soil types in Gaza Strip, Palestine under laboratory and field conditions. Leaching potential was evaluated by tin columns and bioassay technique using Molokhia as test plant. The responses of the test plant were regressed versus concentrations of the herbicide to estimate linear regression equation and the regression coefficient. The obtained results indicate strong positive association between Molokhia and concentrations of diuron or linuron;accordingly it was used in the bioassay and estimation of the concentrations of the tested herbicides in the leaching depth. Leaching potential was very low in North Gaza and Kkan Younis soil, whereas in the Meddle zone soil was very large. Leaching potential under laboratory conditions was larger that under field conditions. The bioestimated concentrations in soil layer under field conditions were sever folds of magnitude lower than those under laboratory conditions. The interesting outcome of this study is that leaching potential is dependent on soil clay fraction, soil organic matter, and soil pH. These results provided answers to the questions raised by farmers in Gaza Strip.展开更多
Cyanotoxins are chemical compounds produced by cyanobacterial mats grown in aquatic ecosystems. These may threaten human health and aquatic organisms. Extraction of these toxins is usually associated with many difficu...Cyanotoxins are chemical compounds produced by cyanobacterial mats grown in aquatic ecosystems. These may threaten human health and aquatic organisms. Extraction of these toxins is usually associated with many difficulties due to their concentration in aquatic ecosystems. This study is designed to provide suitable and effective extraction procedures that can effectively extract low concentration cyanotoxin from water and bacterial cells. The methodology is based on collecting raw material of cyanobacterial mats from naturally growing sites such as Wadi Gaza along with 16 liters of aquatic surrounding media. The materials were left in the Lab for 24 - 48 h for stabilization of the mats. The floating mats were collected using special funnel and allowed to air drying. The aqueous phase was extracted by liquid/liquid extraction using solvent mixture (hexane + ethylacetate 10% w:w), and by liquid solid extraction using several types of organoclays complexes. The solid phase was extracted by acetone and ultrasonic device. Results showed some difficulties were associated with liquid/liquid extraction whereas effective and easy extraction procedures were obtained by liquid solid extraction using either organoclay complex or activated charcoal. In contrast combination of both solid materials did not show improvement in the extracted cyanotoxin. Thus we recommend the use of organoclays or activated charcoal separately for extracting cyanotoxin. Further improvement of extraction can be tailored by using a specific organoclay complex that has some similarity in the chemical structure between the pre-adsorbed organic cation to the clay mineral and the chemical structure of cyanotoxin.展开更多
Application of the commercial formulation of chlorpyrifos has resulted in considerable environmental contamination. This study was designed to develop environmentally acceptable chlorpyrifos formulation for safe and e...Application of the commercial formulation of chlorpyrifos has resulted in considerable environmental contamination. This study was designed to develop environmentally acceptable chlorpyrifos formulation for safe and effective application. This involved the modification of clay surfaces from hydrophilic to hydrophobic via ion-exchange reaction with organic cations. The resulting organo-clay complexes were tested for adsorption and release of chlorpyrifos. HPLC and FTIR measurements showed considerable adsorption and strong interaction between chlorpyrifos molecules and the organo-clay complexes. Basal spacing results emphasized the formation of suitable micro-pores for chlorpyrifos molecules. HPLC and bioassay techniques confirmed the slow release of chlorpyrifos. Leaching potential showed retention of chlorpyrifos in the top soil. Therefore application of organoclay formulation of chlorpyrifos may reduce their potential environmental contamination and produce safe applications.展开更多
Effects of wastewater discharge on the coastal area in Gaza strip Palestine are not fully investigated. This study investigated the effect wastewater discharge of the physical and chemical properties of marine water i...Effects of wastewater discharge on the coastal area in Gaza strip Palestine are not fully investigated. This study investigated the effect wastewater discharge of the physical and chemical properties of marine water in the coastal area over a period of 2 year. Sea water and sediment samples were collected from about 20 different sites. The water and the sediments were collected wastewater/sea water mixing zone at depth 0, 2.5 and 5 m water column depth at a direct wastewater discharging pipe line from different location and similarly from other locations. Water temperature T, electric conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, total dissolved solid (TDS) and salinity were determined for water samples using field equipment such as pH-meter, DO meter, TDS-/ and EC-meter. On the other hand, NO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>, SO<sub>4</sub><sup>2-</sup>, PO<sub>4</sub><sup>3-</sup> were determined in the laboratory using chemical methods, details are described in materials and method section. Results showed average and standard deviation of T, EC, DO, pH, TDS and salinity were 22.02°C ± 4.1°C, EC: 58.41 ± 4.8 ms/cm;DO: 6.96 ± 1.8 mg/L;pH: 7.69 ± 0.37;TDS: 30.51 ± 3.29 and salinity 4.39 ± 0.12 (%);whereas, average and standard deviation of NO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>: were 299.8 ± 204.1 mg/L;SO<sub>4</sub><sup>2-</sup>, 5736.9 ± 817.1;and PO<sub>4</sub><sup>3-</sup>: 164.35 ± 120.7 mg/L. The measured values indicate significant differences due to high value of standard deviation of some measured parameters. This indicates the influence of wastewater discharge in sea water as shown inside the manuscript in the appropriate section. The study recommends efficient treatment of wastewater and reuses it for agricultural purposes instead of discharging it in sea.展开更多
Application of Nemacur in Gaza strip increased rapidly as a potential alternative to the widely used soil sterilizing agent methyl bromide. Nemacur application may contaminate soil, water and plant systems due to its ...Application of Nemacur in Gaza strip increased rapidly as a potential alternative to the widely used soil sterilizing agent methyl bromide. Nemacur application may contaminate soil, water and plant systems due to its high solubility in water. The objective of this study was to determine Nemacur residues soil, water, and cucumber samples collected from a field plots applied Nemacur at different field rates (0.0, 0.5 F, 1 F, 2 F) where F is the recommended field rate of Nemacur (4 kg/Hectare). Nemacur residues were determined by chemo-assay and bioassay techniques. Results revealed that considerable Nemacur concentrations were found in cucumber fruits and plant leaves. Nemacur residues were higher in water samples collected from sandy soil (7.2 μg/L) than from clay soil (3.4 μg/L). Furthermore, Nemacur residues in sandy soil (0.23 μg/kg) were lower than those in clay soil (1.3 μg/kg). In addition, Nemacur concentration in top soil layer in clay soil was lower than other layers. Nemacur residues in cucumber fruits grown in sandy soil were lower than those in cucumber fruits grown in clay soil. Nemacur residues in cucumber fruits collected from the market were below detection limit of HPLC technique. Chemo-assay techniques determined lower concentration of Nemacur than bioassay techniques. It can be concludes that considerable concentrations of Nemacur were found in all tested samples. Comparing with maximum residues limits (MRLS). Nemacur concentrations in various environmental samples were less than the maximum residues limits.展开更多
Medical waste management is of great importance due to its infectious and hazardous nature and its management is not fully understood. This study examined the medical waste management practices in two large hospitals ...Medical waste management is of great importance due to its infectious and hazardous nature and its management is not fully understood. This study examined the medical waste management practices in two large hospitals (El Shifa and Al Aqsa hospitals) in Gaza strip. The study used face to face questionnaire, workshops, interviews to managers and field observations for data collection. Results showed that both hospitals did not quantify medical wastes but medical wastes were separated in each department. Field observation indicated that medical waste separation into infectious medical waste and non-infectious medical waste was not conducted according to WHO (World Health Organization) standards or any specific standards. Medical wastes were transported from each department to waste container inside the hospital then moved to the storage area or municipal container. Medical waste employees (n = 51;66.2%) revealed that medical wastes are stored temporarily in the hospital in a not suitable place in terms of ventilation, lighting and easy access. Furthermore, occupational safety among employees was not fully implemented, as large percentage of them (n = 48, 94.1%) revealed that the used protective clothes during work were not fully effective. Furthermore, incineration was the main treatment of infectious medical waste whereas, non-infectious wastes were disposed in landfills. Additionally, both hospitals did not provide any training for employees regarding medical waste management. In conclusion, medical waste management is far below WHO standards in both hospitals. It is recommended to provide training courses to the employees to improve the quality of environmental health and reduce health hazards in the hospitals.展开更多
The Golden Jackal (Canis aureus Linnaeus, 1758), which belongs to the Canidae family, is an opportunist carnivore in the Gaza Strip (365 square kilometers). The current study aims at giving notes on the occurrence and...The Golden Jackal (Canis aureus Linnaeus, 1758), which belongs to the Canidae family, is an opportunist carnivore in the Gaza Strip (365 square kilometers). The current study aims at giving notes on the occurrence and some ecological aspects of the species in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. The study, which lasted 14 years (2007-2020), is descriptive and cumulative in its style. It was based on frequent field visits, direct observations and meetings and discussions with wildlife hunters, farmers and other stakeholders. The findings of the study show that Gazans are familiar with the Golden Jackal to the extent that a Gazan family holds the Arabic name of the animal, which is “Wawi”. The Golden Jackal was sometimes encountered and hunted in the eastern parts of the Gaza Strip, which are characterized by the presence of wilderness areas, intensive agriculture, poultry pens and solid waste landfills. Like other a few mammalian faunas, the adult Golden Jackals enter the Gaza Strip through gaps in or burrows beneath the metal borders separating the Gaza Strip from the rest of the Palestinian Territories and Egypt. Gaza zoos were found to harbor tens of Golden Jackals trapped or hunted by clever wildlife hunters using different means such as wire cages known locally as “maltash” and foothold traps with metal jaws that may cause lesions to the trapped animals. Poisoning and shooting were also common methods used to control the jackals and other carnivores causing harm to agriculture and livestock. The animal was known among the Gazans as an omnivore, feeding on wild and domestic animals in addition to plant materials, garbage and carrions. In conclusion, the study recommends the need to raise ecological awareness to preserve the Golden jackal and to adopt safe control measures for jackals and other carnivores, including the construction of protective fences for agricultural fields and animal pens.展开更多
Water quality and occurrence of water-borne diseases in the Gaza strip are vivid examples for most developing societies. In recent years, the quality and quantity of groundwater, the only source of waters in the Gaza ...Water quality and occurrence of water-borne diseases in the Gaza strip are vivid examples for most developing societies. In recent years, the quality and quantity of groundwater, the only source of waters in the Gaza strip, have deteriorated markedly. A general rundown of the infrastructure and water distribution networks, in particular, the spread of cesspools, excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, and improper treatment and disposal of wastewater remain major contributing factors to the continued deterioration in the water status in the Gaza strip. Without a doubt, the (Israeli)-Palestinian conflict had a clear negative impact on the water sector in the Gaza strip. Apparently, there is a dire need to adopt the WHO’s water safety plan in the management of Gaza’s water supply systems from catchment to consumer’s tap in order to maintain the sustainability and quality of water resources and prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Therefore, this review has been prepared to highlight the overall picture of the water dilemma in the Gaza strip in the last years and in addition, to identify the sources, sorts, levels, and health risks of consequence to microbial contamination of water. The impact of political conflicts on the water sector in the Gaza strip also was reviewed. Furthermore, recommendations were formulated in order to assist and guide future researchers, stakeholders, and policymakers to avoid the more exacerbation of water contamination as well as to protect public health.展开更多
A study was conducted to describe the progression of bud dormancy in 1-year-old apple （Malus x domestica Borkh） shoots grown at two contrasting climatic conditions （Belgium, temperate and Ethiopia, tropics）. The e...A study was conducted to describe the progression of bud dormancy in 1-year-old apple （Malus x domestica Borkh） shoots grown at two contrasting climatic conditions （Belgium, temperate and Ethiopia, tropics）. The experiment was carried out on ＂Golden＂ and ＂Gala＂ cultivars for two consecutive years （2010/2011 and 2011/2012）. Moreover, a validation experiment was conducted on ＂MM106＂ apple rootstock during 2010/2011 only in Ethiopia. Variations in inverse of time to 50% budburst were interpreted in terms of evolution of growth capacity of the buds. Despite differences observed with chilling accumulation later in winter or early in spring, depending on environments, depth of endodormancy intensity during winter can be summarized as follows： buds from pruned shoots were less endodormant than terminal buds of the intact shoots and terminal buds were more endodormant than the dormancy intensity of upper buds of the disbudded shoots, suggesting proximal buds can grow more readily than does terminal ones. Our results provide evidence for the existence of a considerably strong paradormancy inhibition by distal shoot parts and buds, which was more pronounced in Ethiopia than in Belgium, highlighting the importance of designing and applying appropriate pruning and dormancy avoidance strategies in mild-winter climates. Finally, as still there is knowledge gap on bud dormancy progression and its control mechanism especially under mild climates, our study highlights the need for further in-depth research using biological and biochemical tests.展开更多
The Mediterranean Sea is home to an interesting biodiversity. The current cumulative and descriptive study aims to enumerate some relatively large marine mammals, reptiles, and fishes that have been spotted, caught, b...The Mediterranean Sea is home to an interesting biodiversity. The current cumulative and descriptive study aims to enumerate some relatively large marine mammals, reptiles, and fishes that have been spotted, caught, by-caught, or stranded on the coast of the Gaza Strip, Palestine, which extends about 42 km along the Mediterranean Sea. This 20-year study from 2003 to 2022 relied much on frequent field visits, meetings, and discussions with stakeholders, following local media sites and social media pages, and photography. The study recorded at least 26 giants or relatively large marine organisms on the Mediterranean coast of the Gaza Strip, Palestine. Certainly, the coming years may bring other marine organisms of relatively large sizes. Marine mammals included three species of cetaceans with the Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus) being the largest mammal and even the largest animal ever recorded in this study. Marine reptiles included three species of sea turtles, the largest of which is the Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), which is in fact the world’s largest sea turtle. The bony fishes were represented by ten species, the largest of which was the Ocean Sunfish (Mola mola), which is the largest bony fish in the world. The cartilaginous fishes included ten species with the largest specimens encountered were the Shortfin Shark (Isurus oxyrinchus), Bluntnose Sixgill Shark (Hexanchus griseus), Scalloped Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna lewini), and Giant Devil Ray (Mobula mobular). Seabirds were not included in the study. The Alexandria Pompano (Alectis alexandrinus) and the Silver-Cheeked Toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), which are bony fishes, appear to be the relatively smallest marine organisms recorded here. In conclusion, the role of the various parties must be coordinated to ensure the sustainability of human activities and their compatibility with the task of conserving local marine biota, including the gigantic or relatively large ones.展开更多
This study investigated the effect of biogas production on the removal hazardous waste properties. Biogas was produced from caw, chicken and mixed manure. Samples were taken before and after biogas production and test...This study investigated the effect of biogas production on the removal hazardous waste properties. Biogas was produced from caw, chicken and mixed manure. Samples were taken before and after biogas production and tested for removal of total solid (TS), removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), and fecal coliform bacteria (FC). Results showed tremendous removal of the above mentioned parameters after biogas production. Chemical analysis of digestate indicates the advantages of using them as plant nutrients. Application of digestate in soil dramatically changed the chemical and physical properties of soil. It can be concluded that biogas production, is not only producing biogas but also removing waste parameters (TS, COD, BOD, FC) and producing plant nutrients.展开更多
Treated wastewater is one of the critical practices of sustainable water management. In Palestinian authority region different wastewater technologies are used to produce variety of effluents that are potentially suit...Treated wastewater is one of the critical practices of sustainable water management. In Palestinian authority region different wastewater technologies are used to produce variety of effluents that are potentially suitable for different purposes. In this study, these different treated wastewater effluents were characterized chemically, biologically, and physically. Results showed that some of these effluents neither comply with Palestinian nor with other global effluent discharge guidelines. Chemical reactivity of five different treated wastewater effluents with chlorine was measured by determining their chlorine demand and total trihalomethane formation potential (TTHMFP). Results showed that different wastewater effluents chemical reactivity with chlorine and TTHMFP is not only dependent on wastewater treatment technology but also is affected by original water source from which was the water emerged. In all cases, measured THMs superseded acceptable drinking water limits. This would indicate responsibility of high percentage of cancer, hepatic and renal diseases among the local people.展开更多
The Gaza Strip(365 km^(2))of Palestine(27,000 km^(2))is home to a wealth of terrestrial vertebrate fauna.Some of these faunistic species find their ways to preservation at the local universities.Hence,the current stud...The Gaza Strip(365 km^(2))of Palestine(27,000 km^(2))is home to a wealth of terrestrial vertebrate fauna.Some of these faunistic species find their ways to preservation at the local universities.Hence,the current study comes to document the Palestinian terrestrial vertebrate fauna acquired by the biology exhibitions(BEs)of Al-Azhar University,Islamic University of Gaza and Al-Aqsa University that are located at the Gaza City of the Gaza Strip.The amphibians,reptiles,birds and mammals preserved at BEs of the universities in question were surveyed and scientifically classified during a three-month period extending from January to March,2012.The study showed that all BEs of local universities are underdeveloped,lacking attention and suffer from specimen scarcity and good preservation.The BE at Al-Azhar University is the best in the arrangement and preservation of bird specimens.A total number of 200 specimens belonging to 54 terrestrial vertebrate fauna species,39 families and 17 orders was recorded at BEs.Reptiles constituted 40.7%of the total species recorded,followed by birds(38.9%),mammals(14.8%)and amphibians(5.6%).The Islamic University of Gaza was considered the best in terms of the number of preserved species(39.8%),followed by Al-Azhar University(36.3%)and Al-Aqsa University(23.9%).The Common Toad(Bufo viridis)was the most preserved among the amphibian species recorded.Squamata was the biggest reptilian order,comprising 20 species(8 lizards and 12 snakes),with the Syrian Black Snake(Coluber jugularis asianus)was the commonest.The Palestine Viper(Vipera palaestinae)is endemic to Palestine and most venomous and dangerous to human health.The Great White Pelican(Pelecanus onocrotalus)was the largest Palestinian bird preserved at BE of Al-Azhar University.The Egyptian Mongoose(Herpestes ichneumon)and the Common Badger(Meles meles)were the biggest mammalian specimens preserved,while the Palestine Mole-rat(Spalax leucodon ehrenbergi)was the only Palestine endemic species encountered among the preserved mammals.Finally,the improvement of BEs of local universities and the construction of a Central Museum of Natural History is highly recommended in order to change the Palestinians’attitudes toward a sustainable ecological conservation in the Gaza Strip.展开更多
Bird fauna checklists are important tools in ecology, biology, and conservation planning for scientists, stakeholders, and decision-makers. Despite its small area, the Gaza Strip (365 km<sup>2</sup>) has a...Bird fauna checklists are important tools in ecology, biology, and conservation planning for scientists, stakeholders, and decision-makers. Despite its small area, the Gaza Strip (365 km<sup>2</sup>) has a relatively large variety of resident and migratory bird fauna. Therefore, the current study aimed to provide an updated checklist of all bird fauna living in or inhabiting the Gaza Strip. Direct field observations using binoculars, continuous visits to zoos, pet stores and biology museums, discussion with bird hunters, follow-up of news and social networking sites, review of scientific publications and photography were the main tools to satisfy the purpose of the study. At least 250 bird species collected from different sources occur in the Gaza Strip and are included in the checklist. This list will not be static, but is inevitably subject to additions and changes in the face of times. The current 250 bird species of the Gaza Strip represent 45.4% of the 551 species of birds living in Palestine. The bird species were found to belong to 21 orders and 61 families. The Passeriformes (passerines) represented the largest order with 96 species of birds (38.4%), followed by the Charadriiformes 54 (21.6%), the Accipitriformes 18 (7.2%), Anseriformes 17 (6.8%) and Pelecaniformes 14 (5.6%), while the other orders represented the remaining percentage (20.4%). With regard to families, the Scolopacidae represented the largest family with 22 species of birds (8.8%), followed by the Anatidae and Accipitridae 17 for each (6.8%), the Muscicapidae 16 (6.4%) and Chariidridae and Fringillidae 11 for each (4.4%), while the other families represented the remaining percentage (62.4%). According to the IUCN regional threat categories, 226 species (90.4%) were Least Concern (LC), 12 (4.8%) were Near Threatened (NT), 6 (2.4%) were Vulnerable (VU), 4 (1.6%) were Endangered (EN) and 2 (0.8%) were Critically Endangered (CR). In conclusion, the study recommends a sustainable control of bird hunting and trafficking in addition to building prestigious centers and museums for studying and documenting birds in the Gaza Strip.展开更多
文摘This article describes the application of GPS, image processing analysis and statistical tools for determination of forest structure and biodiversity. The idea is based on determination of forest area using GPS tools, then taking representative plots “samples” about 5% - 10% of the forest and counting the tree species in each plot (sample). This process enables the estimation of species population in each plot. The sum of all species population enables the calculation of relative density of each species. Multiplying species population with plot number of the forest enables the calculations of total species population in the forest. Calculating the relative density enables the determination of dominant, co-dominant, suppressed and flour structure of the forest. To determine the age of the forest, we apply our method on determining the diameter of trees and grouping them to four groups, this enables the estimation of dominant age within single species. From these data, we can estimate the age of the forest. This field protocol is easy and applicable and provides good results in estimating structure, age and biodiversity in the forest.
文摘This study investigated the leaching potential of diuron and linuron in different soil types in Gaza Strip, Palestine under laboratory and field conditions. Leaching potential was evaluated by tin columns and bioassay technique using Molokhia as test plant. The responses of the test plant were regressed versus concentrations of the herbicide to estimate linear regression equation and the regression coefficient. The obtained results indicate strong positive association between Molokhia and concentrations of diuron or linuron;accordingly it was used in the bioassay and estimation of the concentrations of the tested herbicides in the leaching depth. Leaching potential was very low in North Gaza and Kkan Younis soil, whereas in the Meddle zone soil was very large. Leaching potential under laboratory conditions was larger that under field conditions. The bioestimated concentrations in soil layer under field conditions were sever folds of magnitude lower than those under laboratory conditions. The interesting outcome of this study is that leaching potential is dependent on soil clay fraction, soil organic matter, and soil pH. These results provided answers to the questions raised by farmers in Gaza Strip.
文摘Cyanotoxins are chemical compounds produced by cyanobacterial mats grown in aquatic ecosystems. These may threaten human health and aquatic organisms. Extraction of these toxins is usually associated with many difficulties due to their concentration in aquatic ecosystems. This study is designed to provide suitable and effective extraction procedures that can effectively extract low concentration cyanotoxin from water and bacterial cells. The methodology is based on collecting raw material of cyanobacterial mats from naturally growing sites such as Wadi Gaza along with 16 liters of aquatic surrounding media. The materials were left in the Lab for 24 - 48 h for stabilization of the mats. The floating mats were collected using special funnel and allowed to air drying. The aqueous phase was extracted by liquid/liquid extraction using solvent mixture (hexane + ethylacetate 10% w:w), and by liquid solid extraction using several types of organoclays complexes. The solid phase was extracted by acetone and ultrasonic device. Results showed some difficulties were associated with liquid/liquid extraction whereas effective and easy extraction procedures were obtained by liquid solid extraction using either organoclay complex or activated charcoal. In contrast combination of both solid materials did not show improvement in the extracted cyanotoxin. Thus we recommend the use of organoclays or activated charcoal separately for extracting cyanotoxin. Further improvement of extraction can be tailored by using a specific organoclay complex that has some similarity in the chemical structure between the pre-adsorbed organic cation to the clay mineral and the chemical structure of cyanotoxin.
文摘Application of the commercial formulation of chlorpyrifos has resulted in considerable environmental contamination. This study was designed to develop environmentally acceptable chlorpyrifos formulation for safe and effective application. This involved the modification of clay surfaces from hydrophilic to hydrophobic via ion-exchange reaction with organic cations. The resulting organo-clay complexes were tested for adsorption and release of chlorpyrifos. HPLC and FTIR measurements showed considerable adsorption and strong interaction between chlorpyrifos molecules and the organo-clay complexes. Basal spacing results emphasized the formation of suitable micro-pores for chlorpyrifos molecules. HPLC and bioassay techniques confirmed the slow release of chlorpyrifos. Leaching potential showed retention of chlorpyrifos in the top soil. Therefore application of organoclay formulation of chlorpyrifos may reduce their potential environmental contamination and produce safe applications.
文摘Effects of wastewater discharge on the coastal area in Gaza strip Palestine are not fully investigated. This study investigated the effect wastewater discharge of the physical and chemical properties of marine water in the coastal area over a period of 2 year. Sea water and sediment samples were collected from about 20 different sites. The water and the sediments were collected wastewater/sea water mixing zone at depth 0, 2.5 and 5 m water column depth at a direct wastewater discharging pipe line from different location and similarly from other locations. Water temperature T, electric conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, total dissolved solid (TDS) and salinity were determined for water samples using field equipment such as pH-meter, DO meter, TDS-/ and EC-meter. On the other hand, NO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>, SO<sub>4</sub><sup>2-</sup>, PO<sub>4</sub><sup>3-</sup> were determined in the laboratory using chemical methods, details are described in materials and method section. Results showed average and standard deviation of T, EC, DO, pH, TDS and salinity were 22.02°C ± 4.1°C, EC: 58.41 ± 4.8 ms/cm;DO: 6.96 ± 1.8 mg/L;pH: 7.69 ± 0.37;TDS: 30.51 ± 3.29 and salinity 4.39 ± 0.12 (%);whereas, average and standard deviation of NO<sub>3</sub><sup>-</sup>: were 299.8 ± 204.1 mg/L;SO<sub>4</sub><sup>2-</sup>, 5736.9 ± 817.1;and PO<sub>4</sub><sup>3-</sup>: 164.35 ± 120.7 mg/L. The measured values indicate significant differences due to high value of standard deviation of some measured parameters. This indicates the influence of wastewater discharge in sea water as shown inside the manuscript in the appropriate section. The study recommends efficient treatment of wastewater and reuses it for agricultural purposes instead of discharging it in sea.
文摘Application of Nemacur in Gaza strip increased rapidly as a potential alternative to the widely used soil sterilizing agent methyl bromide. Nemacur application may contaminate soil, water and plant systems due to its high solubility in water. The objective of this study was to determine Nemacur residues soil, water, and cucumber samples collected from a field plots applied Nemacur at different field rates (0.0, 0.5 F, 1 F, 2 F) where F is the recommended field rate of Nemacur (4 kg/Hectare). Nemacur residues were determined by chemo-assay and bioassay techniques. Results revealed that considerable Nemacur concentrations were found in cucumber fruits and plant leaves. Nemacur residues were higher in water samples collected from sandy soil (7.2 μg/L) than from clay soil (3.4 μg/L). Furthermore, Nemacur residues in sandy soil (0.23 μg/kg) were lower than those in clay soil (1.3 μg/kg). In addition, Nemacur concentration in top soil layer in clay soil was lower than other layers. Nemacur residues in cucumber fruits grown in sandy soil were lower than those in cucumber fruits grown in clay soil. Nemacur residues in cucumber fruits collected from the market were below detection limit of HPLC technique. Chemo-assay techniques determined lower concentration of Nemacur than bioassay techniques. It can be concludes that considerable concentrations of Nemacur were found in all tested samples. Comparing with maximum residues limits (MRLS). Nemacur concentrations in various environmental samples were less than the maximum residues limits.
文摘Medical waste management is of great importance due to its infectious and hazardous nature and its management is not fully understood. This study examined the medical waste management practices in two large hospitals (El Shifa and Al Aqsa hospitals) in Gaza strip. The study used face to face questionnaire, workshops, interviews to managers and field observations for data collection. Results showed that both hospitals did not quantify medical wastes but medical wastes were separated in each department. Field observation indicated that medical waste separation into infectious medical waste and non-infectious medical waste was not conducted according to WHO (World Health Organization) standards or any specific standards. Medical wastes were transported from each department to waste container inside the hospital then moved to the storage area or municipal container. Medical waste employees (n = 51;66.2%) revealed that medical wastes are stored temporarily in the hospital in a not suitable place in terms of ventilation, lighting and easy access. Furthermore, occupational safety among employees was not fully implemented, as large percentage of them (n = 48, 94.1%) revealed that the used protective clothes during work were not fully effective. Furthermore, incineration was the main treatment of infectious medical waste whereas, non-infectious wastes were disposed in landfills. Additionally, both hospitals did not provide any training for employees regarding medical waste management. In conclusion, medical waste management is far below WHO standards in both hospitals. It is recommended to provide training courses to the employees to improve the quality of environmental health and reduce health hazards in the hospitals.
文摘The Golden Jackal (Canis aureus Linnaeus, 1758), which belongs to the Canidae family, is an opportunist carnivore in the Gaza Strip (365 square kilometers). The current study aims at giving notes on the occurrence and some ecological aspects of the species in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. The study, which lasted 14 years (2007-2020), is descriptive and cumulative in its style. It was based on frequent field visits, direct observations and meetings and discussions with wildlife hunters, farmers and other stakeholders. The findings of the study show that Gazans are familiar with the Golden Jackal to the extent that a Gazan family holds the Arabic name of the animal, which is “Wawi”. The Golden Jackal was sometimes encountered and hunted in the eastern parts of the Gaza Strip, which are characterized by the presence of wilderness areas, intensive agriculture, poultry pens and solid waste landfills. Like other a few mammalian faunas, the adult Golden Jackals enter the Gaza Strip through gaps in or burrows beneath the metal borders separating the Gaza Strip from the rest of the Palestinian Territories and Egypt. Gaza zoos were found to harbor tens of Golden Jackals trapped or hunted by clever wildlife hunters using different means such as wire cages known locally as “maltash” and foothold traps with metal jaws that may cause lesions to the trapped animals. Poisoning and shooting were also common methods used to control the jackals and other carnivores causing harm to agriculture and livestock. The animal was known among the Gazans as an omnivore, feeding on wild and domestic animals in addition to plant materials, garbage and carrions. In conclusion, the study recommends the need to raise ecological awareness to preserve the Golden jackal and to adopt safe control measures for jackals and other carnivores, including the construction of protective fences for agricultural fields and animal pens.
文摘Water quality and occurrence of water-borne diseases in the Gaza strip are vivid examples for most developing societies. In recent years, the quality and quantity of groundwater, the only source of waters in the Gaza strip, have deteriorated markedly. A general rundown of the infrastructure and water distribution networks, in particular, the spread of cesspools, excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers, and improper treatment and disposal of wastewater remain major contributing factors to the continued deterioration in the water status in the Gaza strip. Without a doubt, the (Israeli)-Palestinian conflict had a clear negative impact on the water sector in the Gaza strip. Apparently, there is a dire need to adopt the WHO’s water safety plan in the management of Gaza’s water supply systems from catchment to consumer’s tap in order to maintain the sustainability and quality of water resources and prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Therefore, this review has been prepared to highlight the overall picture of the water dilemma in the Gaza strip in the last years and in addition, to identify the sources, sorts, levels, and health risks of consequence to microbial contamination of water. The impact of political conflicts on the water sector in the Gaza strip also was reviewed. Furthermore, recommendations were formulated in order to assist and guide future researchers, stakeholders, and policymakers to avoid the more exacerbation of water contamination as well as to protect public health.
文摘A study was conducted to describe the progression of bud dormancy in 1-year-old apple （Malus x domestica Borkh） shoots grown at two contrasting climatic conditions （Belgium, temperate and Ethiopia, tropics）. The experiment was carried out on ＂Golden＂ and ＂Gala＂ cultivars for two consecutive years （2010/2011 and 2011/2012）. Moreover, a validation experiment was conducted on ＂MM106＂ apple rootstock during 2010/2011 only in Ethiopia. Variations in inverse of time to 50% budburst were interpreted in terms of evolution of growth capacity of the buds. Despite differences observed with chilling accumulation later in winter or early in spring, depending on environments, depth of endodormancy intensity during winter can be summarized as follows： buds from pruned shoots were less endodormant than terminal buds of the intact shoots and terminal buds were more endodormant than the dormancy intensity of upper buds of the disbudded shoots, suggesting proximal buds can grow more readily than does terminal ones. Our results provide evidence for the existence of a considerably strong paradormancy inhibition by distal shoot parts and buds, which was more pronounced in Ethiopia than in Belgium, highlighting the importance of designing and applying appropriate pruning and dormancy avoidance strategies in mild-winter climates. Finally, as still there is knowledge gap on bud dormancy progression and its control mechanism especially under mild climates, our study highlights the need for further in-depth research using biological and biochemical tests.
文摘The Mediterranean Sea is home to an interesting biodiversity. The current cumulative and descriptive study aims to enumerate some relatively large marine mammals, reptiles, and fishes that have been spotted, caught, by-caught, or stranded on the coast of the Gaza Strip, Palestine, which extends about 42 km along the Mediterranean Sea. This 20-year study from 2003 to 2022 relied much on frequent field visits, meetings, and discussions with stakeholders, following local media sites and social media pages, and photography. The study recorded at least 26 giants or relatively large marine organisms on the Mediterranean coast of the Gaza Strip, Palestine. Certainly, the coming years may bring other marine organisms of relatively large sizes. Marine mammals included three species of cetaceans with the Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus) being the largest mammal and even the largest animal ever recorded in this study. Marine reptiles included three species of sea turtles, the largest of which is the Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), which is in fact the world’s largest sea turtle. The bony fishes were represented by ten species, the largest of which was the Ocean Sunfish (Mola mola), which is the largest bony fish in the world. The cartilaginous fishes included ten species with the largest specimens encountered were the Shortfin Shark (Isurus oxyrinchus), Bluntnose Sixgill Shark (Hexanchus griseus), Scalloped Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna lewini), and Giant Devil Ray (Mobula mobular). Seabirds were not included in the study. The Alexandria Pompano (Alectis alexandrinus) and the Silver-Cheeked Toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus), which are bony fishes, appear to be the relatively smallest marine organisms recorded here. In conclusion, the role of the various parties must be coordinated to ensure the sustainability of human activities and their compatibility with the task of conserving local marine biota, including the gigantic or relatively large ones.
文摘This study investigated the effect of biogas production on the removal hazardous waste properties. Biogas was produced from caw, chicken and mixed manure. Samples were taken before and after biogas production and tested for removal of total solid (TS), removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), and fecal coliform bacteria (FC). Results showed tremendous removal of the above mentioned parameters after biogas production. Chemical analysis of digestate indicates the advantages of using them as plant nutrients. Application of digestate in soil dramatically changed the chemical and physical properties of soil. It can be concluded that biogas production, is not only producing biogas but also removing waste parameters (TS, COD, BOD, FC) and producing plant nutrients.
文摘Treated wastewater is one of the critical practices of sustainable water management. In Palestinian authority region different wastewater technologies are used to produce variety of effluents that are potentially suitable for different purposes. In this study, these different treated wastewater effluents were characterized chemically, biologically, and physically. Results showed that some of these effluents neither comply with Palestinian nor with other global effluent discharge guidelines. Chemical reactivity of five different treated wastewater effluents with chlorine was measured by determining their chlorine demand and total trihalomethane formation potential (TTHMFP). Results showed that different wastewater effluents chemical reactivity with chlorine and TTHMFP is not only dependent on wastewater treatment technology but also is affected by original water source from which was the water emerged. In all cases, measured THMs superseded acceptable drinking water limits. This would indicate responsibility of high percentage of cancer, hepatic and renal diseases among the local people.
基金My thanks are due to Mr.Ismail S.Radwan and Mr.Bashar S.Jarayseh for their continuous help with technical support throughout the current study.
文摘The Gaza Strip(365 km^(2))of Palestine(27,000 km^(2))is home to a wealth of terrestrial vertebrate fauna.Some of these faunistic species find their ways to preservation at the local universities.Hence,the current study comes to document the Palestinian terrestrial vertebrate fauna acquired by the biology exhibitions(BEs)of Al-Azhar University,Islamic University of Gaza and Al-Aqsa University that are located at the Gaza City of the Gaza Strip.The amphibians,reptiles,birds and mammals preserved at BEs of the universities in question were surveyed and scientifically classified during a three-month period extending from January to March,2012.The study showed that all BEs of local universities are underdeveloped,lacking attention and suffer from specimen scarcity and good preservation.The BE at Al-Azhar University is the best in the arrangement and preservation of bird specimens.A total number of 200 specimens belonging to 54 terrestrial vertebrate fauna species,39 families and 17 orders was recorded at BEs.Reptiles constituted 40.7%of the total species recorded,followed by birds(38.9%),mammals(14.8%)and amphibians(5.6%).The Islamic University of Gaza was considered the best in terms of the number of preserved species(39.8%),followed by Al-Azhar University(36.3%)and Al-Aqsa University(23.9%).The Common Toad(Bufo viridis)was the most preserved among the amphibian species recorded.Squamata was the biggest reptilian order,comprising 20 species(8 lizards and 12 snakes),with the Syrian Black Snake(Coluber jugularis asianus)was the commonest.The Palestine Viper(Vipera palaestinae)is endemic to Palestine and most venomous and dangerous to human health.The Great White Pelican(Pelecanus onocrotalus)was the largest Palestinian bird preserved at BE of Al-Azhar University.The Egyptian Mongoose(Herpestes ichneumon)and the Common Badger(Meles meles)were the biggest mammalian specimens preserved,while the Palestine Mole-rat(Spalax leucodon ehrenbergi)was the only Palestine endemic species encountered among the preserved mammals.Finally,the improvement of BEs of local universities and the construction of a Central Museum of Natural History is highly recommended in order to change the Palestinians’attitudes toward a sustainable ecological conservation in the Gaza Strip.
文摘Bird fauna checklists are important tools in ecology, biology, and conservation planning for scientists, stakeholders, and decision-makers. Despite its small area, the Gaza Strip (365 km<sup>2</sup>) has a relatively large variety of resident and migratory bird fauna. Therefore, the current study aimed to provide an updated checklist of all bird fauna living in or inhabiting the Gaza Strip. Direct field observations using binoculars, continuous visits to zoos, pet stores and biology museums, discussion with bird hunters, follow-up of news and social networking sites, review of scientific publications and photography were the main tools to satisfy the purpose of the study. At least 250 bird species collected from different sources occur in the Gaza Strip and are included in the checklist. This list will not be static, but is inevitably subject to additions and changes in the face of times. The current 250 bird species of the Gaza Strip represent 45.4% of the 551 species of birds living in Palestine. The bird species were found to belong to 21 orders and 61 families. The Passeriformes (passerines) represented the largest order with 96 species of birds (38.4%), followed by the Charadriiformes 54 (21.6%), the Accipitriformes 18 (7.2%), Anseriformes 17 (6.8%) and Pelecaniformes 14 (5.6%), while the other orders represented the remaining percentage (20.4%). With regard to families, the Scolopacidae represented the largest family with 22 species of birds (8.8%), followed by the Anatidae and Accipitridae 17 for each (6.8%), the Muscicapidae 16 (6.4%) and Chariidridae and Fringillidae 11 for each (4.4%), while the other families represented the remaining percentage (62.4%). According to the IUCN regional threat categories, 226 species (90.4%) were Least Concern (LC), 12 (4.8%) were Near Threatened (NT), 6 (2.4%) were Vulnerable (VU), 4 (1.6%) were Endangered (EN) and 2 (0.8%) were Critically Endangered (CR). In conclusion, the study recommends a sustainable control of bird hunting and trafficking in addition to building prestigious centers and museums for studying and documenting birds in the Gaza Strip.
