This paper discusses the Bible in relation to the history and culture of the Jewish people along with its place in world culture.Through translation and Christianity its influence extended into the development of lite...This paper discusses the Bible in relation to the history and culture of the Jewish people along with its place in world culture.Through translation and Christianity its influence extended into the development of literacy among many of the language’s world.The biblical promise to Abraham continues today in the reemergence of the Jewish people as a sovereign nation in the land of Israel after two millennia of wandering.While Bible stories and poetry,primarily through the Psalms,inspired creativity in the visual arts,literature,and music throughout in the Western world.展开更多
This paper examines the evolution of the representation of the Arab in Israeli Cinema as a reflection of the way Arabs are perceived in Israeli cultural and political discourse. Scholars have mostly depicted this repr...This paper examines the evolution of the representation of the Arab in Israeli Cinema as a reflection of the way Arabs are perceived in Israeli cultural and political discourse. Scholars have mostly depicted this representation as static over time. Using examples drawn from a range of Jewish-Israeli film, this paper argues instead that the cinematic representation of Arabs changes over time in ways that mirror currents in Israeli political and social discourse展开更多
Biomass is among the most important state variables used to characterize ecosystems. Estimation of tree biomass involves the development of species-specific “allometric equations” that describe the relationship betw...Biomass is among the most important state variables used to characterize ecosystems. Estimation of tree biomass involves the development of species-specific “allometric equations” that describe the relationship between tree biomass and tree diameter and/or height. While many allometric equations were developed for northern hemisphere and tropical species, rarely have they been developed for trees in arid ecosystems, limiting, amongst other things, our ability to estimate carbon stocks in arid regions. Acacia raddiana and A. tortilis are major components of savannas and arid regions in the Middle East and Africa, where they are considered keystone species. Using the opportunity that trees were being uprooted for land development, we measured height (H), north-south (C1) and east-west (C2) canopy diameters, stem diameter at 1.3 meters of the largest stem (D1.3 or DBH), and aboveground fresh and dry weight (FW and DW, respectively) of nine trees (n = 9) from each species. For A. tortilis only, we recorded the number of trunks, and measured the diameter of the largest trunk at ground level (D0). While the average crown (canopy) size (C1 + C2) was very similar among the two species, Acacia raddiana trees were found to be significantly taller than their Acacia tortilis counterparts. Results show that in the arid Arava (southern Israel), an average adult acacia tree has ~200 kg of aboveground dry biomass and that a typical healthy acacia ecosystem in this region, may include ~41 tons of tree biomass per km2. The coefficients of DBH (tree diameter at breast height) to biomass and wood volume, could be used by researchers studying acacia trees throughout the Middle East and Africa, enabling them to estimate biomass of acacia trees and to evaluate their importance for carbon stocks in their arid regions. Highlights: 1) Estimations of tree biomass in arid regions are rare. 2) Biomass allometric equations were developed for A. raddiana and A. tortilis trees. 3) Equations contribute to the estimation of carbon stocks in arid regions.展开更多
This paper examines the complex relationship between secular and religious communities in Israel,highlighting the socio-political tensions that arise from competing cultural norms and governance frameworks.Secular Jew...This paper examines the complex relationship between secular and religious communities in Israel,highlighting the socio-political tensions that arise from competing cultural norms and governance frameworks.Secular Jews,who constitute a significant portion of the population,advocate for civil liberties,the separation of religion and state,and the integration of ultra-Orthodox communities into broader society.In contrast,religious groups exert substantial influence within coalition governments,often obstructing the implementation of secular policies and exacerbating political instability.The discussion emphasizes the challenges posed by Israel’s unique legal framework,which intertwines Jewish identity with state governance,thereby complicating the principles of democracy and religious freedom.Key legislation,such as the Law of Return and the Law of the Rabbinical Courts,grants religious authorities substantial control over personal status issues,leading to ongoing disputes over rights and representation.The paper argues for the necessity of egalitarian pluralism as a framework for dialogue,aiming to bridge the divide between secular and religious communities.Fostering mutual respect and understanding is essential for achieving social cohesion and strengthening Israel’s commitment to being both a Jewish and democratic state.展开更多
The aim of this article is to present my interpretation of the holistic-phenomenological worldview in practice.This study demonstrates how this approach,as well as the planning process that I followed(a process fundam...The aim of this article is to present my interpretation of the holistic-phenomenological worldview in practice.This study demonstrates how this approach,as well as the planning process that I followed(a process fundamentally different from conventional ones)was implemented in a residential neighborhood I designed and built in the social,economic,and physical structure of the collective known in Israel as a‘kibbutz’.The intention is to raise a broad public discussion and pose a challenge to 21st-century architecture regarding how to intervene in a moral and human way within an existing environment,urban or natural,which must be respected and preserved,when integrating within it a new contemporary architecture.展开更多
The subject of the Holocaust appeared in Israeli art from the establishment of the State and onwards. The integration of the Holocaust in Israeli art through the years was influenced by Israeli society and the Israeli...The subject of the Holocaust appeared in Israeli art from the establishment of the State and onwards. The integration of the Holocaust in Israeli art through the years was influenced by Israeli society and the Israeli art institutional attitude towards the subject and by local historical events. As a result, we witness a development of two directions in Israeli art concerning the Holocaust. One of them has two facets： a massive use of images emphasizing the enormous personal as well as collective destruction of the Jewish nation as the ultimate victim that ＂the entire world is against us＂; While the other facet is that despite the Jewish people emerge battered and humiliated from the Holocaust, they built a country to be an immovable, permanent and safe place for the Jewish nation since ＂there is no one else except for us to do it＂. The other direction regarding the Holocaust that developed in Israeli art, examining in an universal approach the Israeli response to the Holocaust through the prism of local historical events occurring since the establishment of the State. Therefore, we see imagery that examines the aggressive impression of the Israelis, as an internal as well as external criticism of what seems as aggression and violence against another nation. In Israel, as well as in other Modem states, art is used as a means for expression of different viewpoints. In this article, I am focusing on the artistic references to the above approaches to the Holocaust.展开更多
In the winter of 2010, the ＂Spring of the Arab Nations＂ suddenly erupted, leading to the collapse of the Arab old order and the fall of many Arab regimes that up until then were perceived as strong and solid. In man...In the winter of 2010, the ＂Spring of the Arab Nations＂ suddenly erupted, leading to the collapse of the Arab old order and the fall of many Arab regimes that up until then were perceived as strong and solid. In many of the Arab states, the ＂Arab Spring＂, which began as a popular protest degenerated into a bloody civil war, and in the case of Syria it led in the summer of 2014 to the emergence onto the regional stage of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria （ISIS）. The earthquake in the Arab world was perceived by many Israelis as presenting a possible threat, not only to the regional stability and quiet that had reigned along lsrael＇s borders with its Arab neighbors, but also to the very existence of the peace agreements that had been a most important element in Israel＇s national security conception for four decades. In the face of this challenge, Israel chose a passive approach and to allow events to work themselves out and drag it along with them. In some of the arenas matters worked themselves out favorably, for example, in Egypt. In some of the arenas, like Syria and Lebanon, Israel remained a worried observer from the sidelines. In Syria chaos and Islamic extremism spread all over, and in Lebanon Hizballah continued to grow stronger. Meanwhile, the Palestinian arena with all its problems remained on ice, lingering in a state of waiting. Only time will tell whether Israel＇s policy was prudent or simply evasive. Was Israel behaving like the ostrich, burying its head in the sand and avoiding like fire any policy initiative？ Or was Israel＇s policy prudent, sound, and necessary given the limitations on Israel＇s power？展开更多
Artemisia ordosica Krasch. is a dominant shrub occurring mainly on stable sand dunes in the Gobi Desert of China, in the Mongolian phytogeographic region. Achenes of A. ordosica germinate in light but poorly in ...Artemisia ordosica Krasch. is a dominant shrub occurring mainly on stable sand dunes in the Gobi Desert of China, in the Mongolian phytogeographic region. Achenes of A. ordosica germinate in light but poorly in dark and light is the limiting factor regulating the achene germination in sand depth. Achenes germinate in spring or autumn with an optimal temperature of 20 ℃. Achene mucilage can absorb large amounts of water and has important ecological function. Salt concentrations and sand moisture may regulate achene germination in sand. A. ordosica, A. sphaerocephala Krasch. and A. monosperma Delile. from different climates have similar responses to light, the underground location of achene, and sand moisture. Percentage of seedling emergence from different levels of sand depth is depends on the specific, temperature and intensity of light penetrating through the sand depths, as well as on sand moisture. The desert sand habitat seems to have had a dominant influence on the evolution of the germination strategies of these 3 Artemisia species.展开更多
Three-dimensional(3D)printing has attracted increasing research interest as an emerging manufacturing technology for devel-oping sophisticated and exquisite architecture through hierarchical printing.It has also been ...Three-dimensional(3D)printing has attracted increasing research interest as an emerging manufacturing technology for devel-oping sophisticated and exquisite architecture through hierarchical printing.It has also been employed in various advanced industrial areas.The development of intelligent biomedical engineering has raised the requirements for 3D printing,such as flexible manufacturing processes and technologies,biocompatible constituents,and alternative bioproducts.However,state-of-the-art 3D printing mainly involves inorganics or polymers and generally focuses on traditional industrial fields,thus severely limiting applications demanding biocompatibility and biodegradability.In this regard,peptide architectonics,which are self-assembled by programmed amino acid sequences that can be flexibly functionalized,have shown promising potential as bioinspired inks for 3D printing.Therefore,the combination of 3D printing and peptide self-assembly poten-tially opens up an alternative avenue of 3D bioprinting for diverse advanced applications.Israel,a small but innovative nation,has significantly contributed to 3D bioprinting in terms of scientific studies,marketization,and peptide architectonics,including modulations and applications,and ranks as a leading area in the 3D bioprinting field.This review summarizes the recent progress in 3D bioprinting in Israel,focusing on scientific studies on printable components,soft devices,and tissue engineering.This paper further delves into the manufacture of industrial products,such as artificial meats and bioinspired supramolecular architectures,and the mechanisms,physicochemical properties,and applications of peptide self-assembly.Undoubtedly,Israel contributes significantly to the field of 3D bioprinting and should thus be appropriately recognized.展开更多
The Israeli Desert constitutes 60% of the country＇s total area. Regional annual precipitation is 100-200 mm and evapora- tion reaches 2,500 mm. Traditional desert agriculture of rain fed wheat and sheep, goat and cam...The Israeli Desert constitutes 60% of the country＇s total area. Regional annual precipitation is 100-200 mm and evapora- tion reaches 2,500 mm. Traditional desert agriculture of rain fed wheat and sheep, goat and camels grazing is common. Despite the harsh climate conditions, advance agriculture is concentrated in foei where water resources exist. Desert ag- riculture takes advantage of the winter （October-April） due to a mild climate season for growing vegetables, flowers, herbs and fruit which are mostly exported to European countries. The key factor is the sustainable management of the local natural resources.展开更多
During periods of global warming (GW), expected increases in urban temperatures can have adverse impacts on city climate and thermal discomfort due to combined urban and global warming effects. The different climates ...During periods of global warming (GW), expected increases in urban temperatures can have adverse impacts on city climate and thermal discomfort due to combined urban and global warming effects. The different climates in four cities in Israel are studied for the purpose of differentiating global vs. urban warming. Trends in urban and nearby rural areas were compared in order to estimate the urbanization effect on the local climate zones. Daily 06:00 and 15:00 Local Time (LT) temperatures for July 1980-2014 were investigated. The linear relationship between the urban warming and population growth observed in present climate data is assumed to continue into the near future. The Regional Climate Model (RegCM) temperature trends into the 21st century are assumed to represent primarily the GW because of the relatively coarse grid interval of 25 km. Hence, this study first differentiates between global and local warming past trends, and then uses this past result to make future projections that consider both factors. A unique feature of this study is the large climatic variety over Israel—a small country that encompasses no less than 5 different K?ppen climatic zones. The urban minus rural temperature (1980-2014) changes, ΔTu-r, show more intense warming in the afternoon in all 4 cities. For instance, in Jerusalem and Eilat, the ΔTu-r has increased by ~1.2°C. Following the RegCM predictions, by 2060 with “No population growth”, this temperature increase is expected to continue, by 1.114°C and 1.119°C, respectively. If, however, these cities grow rapidly, air temperature will increase by 2.937°C - 4.129°C and 2.778°C - 3.939°C, respectively.展开更多
Nutrient deficiencies are prevalent worldwide.Diseases and morbid conditions have been described to result from nutritional deficiencies.It is essential to address nutrient deficiencies as these may lead to chronic lo...Nutrient deficiencies are prevalent worldwide.Diseases and morbid conditions have been described to result from nutritional deficiencies.It is essential to address nutrient deficiencies as these may lead to chronic longterm health problems such as rickets,iron deficiency anemia,goiter,obesity,coronary heart disease,type2 diabetes,stroke,cancer and osteoporosis.In the present review we surveyed the extent and severity of nutritional deficiencies in Israel through a selective and comprehensive Medline review of previous reports and studies performed during the last 40 years.Israel populations have multiple nutritional deficiencies,including iron,calcium,zinc,folic acid,and vitamins B12,C,D and E,spanning all age groups,several minorities,and specific regions.In Israel,some of the nutrients are mandatorily implemented and many of them are implemented voluntarily by local industries.We suggest ways to prevent and treat the nutritional deficiencies,as a step to promote food fortification in Israel.展开更多
AIM To evaluate and describe the efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)for Clostridium difficile infection(CDI)in a national Israeli cohort.METHODS All patients who received FMT for recurrent(recurrence wit...AIM To evaluate and describe the efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)for Clostridium difficile infection(CDI)in a national Israeli cohort.METHODS All patients who received FMT for recurrent(recurrence within 8 wk of the previous treatment)or refractory CDI from 2013 through 2017 in all the five medical centers in Israel currently performing FMT were included.Stool donors were screened according to the Israeli Ministry of Health guidelines.Clinical and laboratory data of patients were collected from patients'medical files,and they included indications for FMT,risk factors for CDI and disease severity.Primary outcome was FMT success(at least 2 mo free of CDI-related diarrhea post-FMT).Secondary outcomes included initial response to FMT(cessation of diarrhea within 7 d)and recurrence at 6 mo.RESULTS There were 111 FMTs for CDI,with a median age of 70 years[interquartile range(IQR):53-82],and 42%(47)males.Fifty patients(45%)were treated via the lower gastrointestinal(LGI,represented only by colonoscopy)route,37(33%)via capsules,and 24(22%)via the upper gastrointestinal(UGI)route.The overall success rate was 87.4%(97 patients),with no significant difference between routes of administration(P=0.338).In the univariant analysis,FMT success correlated with milder disease(P=0.01),ambulatory setting(P<0.05)and lower Charlson comorbidity score(P<0.05).In the multivariant analysis,only severe CDI[odd ratio(OR)=0.14,P<0.05]and inpatient FMT(OR=0.19,P<0.05)were each independently inversely related to FMT success.There were 35(32%)patients younger than 60 years of age,and 14(40%)of them had a background of inflammatory bowel disease.CONCLUSION FMT is a safe and effective treatment for CDI,with capsules emerging as a successful and well-tolerated route.Severe CDI is less likely to respond to FMT.展开更多
Teaching is a stressful profession characterizing the work of teachers.The Neoliberal reforms have added a further burden on teachers’work,increasing stress at work and resulting in negative health,occupational and e...Teaching is a stressful profession characterizing the work of teachers.The Neoliberal reforms have added a further burden on teachers’work,increasing stress at work and resulting in negative health,occupational and economic consequences.The aims of the study were to examine the perceptions of stress factors among Arab teachers in Israel,and the relationship between Arab teachers’stress factors by types of school(elementary,middle school,and high school)and gender.Stress factors were measured by using an instrument developed by Ablin et al.(2010).Three hundred forty-two public school Arab teachers participated in the study,of whom 230 were female and 112 were male.One hundred twenty-five worked in elementary schools,78 in middle schools,and 130 in high schools.The most stressful factors among Arab teachers were“busy schedule and lack of flexibility”,“the student composition of the class”,and“conflicting requirements between school assignments and home responsibilities”.Significant statistical differences were found between teachers’stress factors by gender and school type.Female teachers rated stress factors“the student composition of the class”and“conflicting requirements between school assignments and home responsibilities”higher than male teachers.Elementary teachers rated stress factors“student parents”,“lack of proper physical conditions”,and“requirement to teach a subject other than one’s specialty”higher than high school teachers.Middle school teachers rated stress factors“school management”,“general supervisor”,and“requirement to teach a subject other than one’s specialty”higher than primary school teachers.The leading stressor in this study is a result of educational disparities between Jews and Arabs.Israel formally purports to embrace the liberal responsibility of providing educational and development opportunities to all of its citizens,enabling them to actualize their full potential as human beings.展开更多
For the Arab Moslem citizens of Israel, the Shari＇a court is the supreme judicial body competent to adjudicate and rule onmatters of divorce, custody, adoption, and custodianship. Under Shari＇a law, a boy will be in...For the Arab Moslem citizens of Israel, the Shari＇a court is the supreme judicial body competent to adjudicate and rule onmatters of divorce, custody, adoption, and custodianship. Under Shari＇a law, a boy will be in the custody of his mother until the ageof seven and the girl, until the age of nine; at the end of this period, the children are transferred to the father＇s custody. In cases wherethere is no father, they are transferred to the custody of the grandfather. In cases of dispute between the parents regarding custody,the Shari＇a court is called upon to rule, and for this purpose, it seeks a professional psychological evaluation of parenting competenceIt should be noted that this evaluation in Arab Moslem society involves professional and ethical issues since it is culturally-biased interms of Moslem culture： （l） Arab society is a collective comprised of extended families （hamula = clans）; （2） Men have apreferential status over women; （3） The functions of the father and the mother with respect to the child＇s needs （instrumental,emotional, and educational） are distinct from each other. It is further noteworthy that the psychological evaluation is made bydiagnostic information and accredited tools of evaluation. In the present situation there are no psychological tests that were adaptedfor the Arab population. The test must be reliable and reflect the reality being tested. Lack of standardization for tests makes themirrelevant. Furthermore, it must be said that in the Arab world there is no consensus about the tools constructed for this purpose in theWest. Psycho-diagnostic tools including evaluations that deal with testing the level of general intellectual functioning are found innearly every psychological service or mental health clinic, but it is obvious to everyone that at the end of the testing, one must relyalso on the tester＇s experience and professional ability in order to determine the etiology or to make a diagnosis that will reflect thesubject＇s innermost emotional or mental state. Therefore the model for evaluating parenting competence in general Israel society isnot applicable in Arab Moslem society, since it is culturally-biased and the two cultures are different from each other. Therefore it isnecessary to build a model for evaluation that is grounded upon： （1） Shari＇a law; （2） Reference to the extended family; （3）Differential roles of father and mother; （4） Psychological tests adapted to the culture being examined.展开更多
This study analyses an iconic photograph of Israeli paratroopers, photographed in Jerusalem in 1967. It explores how visual and formal structural components in the image function in this photograph and how they contri...This study analyses an iconic photograph of Israeli paratroopers, photographed in Jerusalem in 1967. It explores how visual and formal structural components in the image function in this photograph and how they contribute to the process of creating an icon. It explores the mechanisms that exist in visual icons and addresses the question of why some press photographs turn into iconic images while other do not, and if there is a connection between the visual structural elements in the images and the way they are perceived by the public. The study discusses how this visual logic correlates with other elements such as public opinion and myths.展开更多
This paper analyzes how the Prime Minister of Israel, Binyamin Netanyalau, uses Israel＇s technological superiorityand innovative use of digital diplomacy to maintain a leading role in social media and an active and o...This paper analyzes how the Prime Minister of Israel, Binyamin Netanyalau, uses Israel＇s technological superiorityand innovative use of digital diplomacy to maintain a leading role in social media and an active and on-goingimpact on American politics. His global policy approach is based on the realization that we live in a world oftechnology, and since technology improves at a rapid rate, Israel should stand in the front of global change. Hispolitical and social media reign is unquestionable. He was elected the 10th most admired person in the United States,according to the ＂World＇s Most Admired 2016＂ YouGov poll that gauged the popularity of famous people in 30different countries. His personal Facebook page reached two million followers worldwide, more than half of themfrom the United States. As the research demonstrates, his popularity is the result of the ability to mobilize politicalskills with an effective media campaign. He derives his power directly from the public and engages that public indirect dialogue, bypassing the traditional media. This demonstrates a calculated and savvy use of new mediaplatforms, as his accounts are able to motivate high rates of interaction and interest among followers and others whocan view the posts.展开更多
Our paper presents an interactive four-dimensional model for studying the long- and short-term development of the communication discipline with Israel serving as a case study： institutional-contextual, institutional-...Our paper presents an interactive four-dimensional model for studying the long- and short-term development of the communication discipline with Israel serving as a case study： institutional-contextual, institutional-in-field, intellectual-contextual, and intellectual-in-field. Our empirical analysis utilized personal interviews, archive documents, and statistical data. Four main processes were discerned： transition from integration to alienation between institutions of higher learning and the larger political and ideological context; a shift from Hebrew University Institute of Communication＇s institutional monopoly to a multiplicity of increasingly competitive communication schools/departments; transition from intellectual hegemony to limited intellectual diversity; and gradually improving status for the communication field among social science disciplines. Our case-study analysis validated the interactive relationship among the model＇s conceptual dimensions, calling for future cross-national comparisons.展开更多
The purpose of the article is to review the dynamics of the Orientalist agenda in Israeli modernism from the 1920s to the 1970s as the establishment of sign-object relations(semiosis)in the national art and music.The ...The purpose of the article is to review the dynamics of the Orientalist agenda in Israeli modernism from the 1920s to the 1970s as the establishment of sign-object relations(semiosis)in the national art and music.The article considers,as a key issue,the phenomenon,which was not explicitly voiced as such,but was present at a conscious level in the artistic palette of the first and second generation of Israeli artists and composers.This refers to rather Eastern than Jewish narratives(or at least the delicate balance between them)in Israeli visual art and music created over the decades following World War I and up to the postmodern era.The main milestones in this process are reviewed based on the analysis of several selected artifacts.The scope of the topic begins with artists’acquaintance with the local motif and proceeds to the work with(and conceptualization of)various Eastern,Jewish,and Israeli symbols.展开更多
This paper analyzes the impact of past trauma on national behavior in times of threat, applying Volkan＇s （2001, 2004） theory of multigenerational impact of trauma on large groups, and La Capra＇s （2014） theory of...This paper analyzes the impact of past trauma on national behavior in times of threat, applying Volkan＇s （2001, 2004） theory of multigenerational impact of trauma on large groups, and La Capra＇s （2014） theory of the use of the concept of individuals＇ trauma for understanding the behavior of traumatized collectives. The study of the Israeli response to the abduction and murder of three teenagers in summer 2014 is consistent with these theories, and shows how a collective with trauma in its past behaves similarly to a posttraumatic person. The paper contends that due to its traumatic past, the Jewish Israeli public perceived a tragic but limited （from a national security standpoint） hostile action as a grave collective threat, which invoked past demons and brought back existential fears. These feelings were inflamed by the Israeli media and leaders, paving the way for an escalation of the event into an armed battle.展开更多
文摘This paper discusses the Bible in relation to the history and culture of the Jewish people along with its place in world culture.Through translation and Christianity its influence extended into the development of literacy among many of the language’s world.The biblical promise to Abraham continues today in the reemergence of the Jewish people as a sovereign nation in the land of Israel after two millennia of wandering.While Bible stories and poetry,primarily through the Psalms,inspired creativity in the visual arts,literature,and music throughout in the Western world.
文摘This paper examines the evolution of the representation of the Arab in Israeli Cinema as a reflection of the way Arabs are perceived in Israeli cultural and political discourse. Scholars have mostly depicted this representation as static over time. Using examples drawn from a range of Jewish-Israeli film, this paper argues instead that the cinematic representation of Arabs changes over time in ways that mirror currents in Israeli political and social discourse
文摘Biomass is among the most important state variables used to characterize ecosystems. Estimation of tree biomass involves the development of species-specific “allometric equations” that describe the relationship between tree biomass and tree diameter and/or height. While many allometric equations were developed for northern hemisphere and tropical species, rarely have they been developed for trees in arid ecosystems, limiting, amongst other things, our ability to estimate carbon stocks in arid regions. Acacia raddiana and A. tortilis are major components of savannas and arid regions in the Middle East and Africa, where they are considered keystone species. Using the opportunity that trees were being uprooted for land development, we measured height (H), north-south (C1) and east-west (C2) canopy diameters, stem diameter at 1.3 meters of the largest stem (D1.3 or DBH), and aboveground fresh and dry weight (FW and DW, respectively) of nine trees (n = 9) from each species. For A. tortilis only, we recorded the number of trunks, and measured the diameter of the largest trunk at ground level (D0). While the average crown (canopy) size (C1 + C2) was very similar among the two species, Acacia raddiana trees were found to be significantly taller than their Acacia tortilis counterparts. Results show that in the arid Arava (southern Israel), an average adult acacia tree has ~200 kg of aboveground dry biomass and that a typical healthy acacia ecosystem in this region, may include ~41 tons of tree biomass per km2. The coefficients of DBH (tree diameter at breast height) to biomass and wood volume, could be used by researchers studying acacia trees throughout the Middle East and Africa, enabling them to estimate biomass of acacia trees and to evaluate their importance for carbon stocks in their arid regions. Highlights: 1) Estimations of tree biomass in arid regions are rare. 2) Biomass allometric equations were developed for A. raddiana and A. tortilis trees. 3) Equations contribute to the estimation of carbon stocks in arid regions.
文摘This paper examines the complex relationship between secular and religious communities in Israel,highlighting the socio-political tensions that arise from competing cultural norms and governance frameworks.Secular Jews,who constitute a significant portion of the population,advocate for civil liberties,the separation of religion and state,and the integration of ultra-Orthodox communities into broader society.In contrast,religious groups exert substantial influence within coalition governments,often obstructing the implementation of secular policies and exacerbating political instability.The discussion emphasizes the challenges posed by Israel’s unique legal framework,which intertwines Jewish identity with state governance,thereby complicating the principles of democracy and religious freedom.Key legislation,such as the Law of Return and the Law of the Rabbinical Courts,grants religious authorities substantial control over personal status issues,leading to ongoing disputes over rights and representation.The paper argues for the necessity of egalitarian pluralism as a framework for dialogue,aiming to bridge the divide between secular and religious communities.Fostering mutual respect and understanding is essential for achieving social cohesion and strengthening Israel’s commitment to being both a Jewish and democratic state.
文摘The aim of this article is to present my interpretation of the holistic-phenomenological worldview in practice.This study demonstrates how this approach,as well as the planning process that I followed(a process fundamentally different from conventional ones)was implemented in a residential neighborhood I designed and built in the social,economic,and physical structure of the collective known in Israel as a‘kibbutz’.The intention is to raise a broad public discussion and pose a challenge to 21st-century architecture regarding how to intervene in a moral and human way within an existing environment,urban or natural,which must be respected and preserved,when integrating within it a new contemporary architecture.
文摘The subject of the Holocaust appeared in Israeli art from the establishment of the State and onwards. The integration of the Holocaust in Israeli art through the years was influenced by Israeli society and the Israeli art institutional attitude towards the subject and by local historical events. As a result, we witness a development of two directions in Israeli art concerning the Holocaust. One of them has two facets： a massive use of images emphasizing the enormous personal as well as collective destruction of the Jewish nation as the ultimate victim that ＂the entire world is against us＂; While the other facet is that despite the Jewish people emerge battered and humiliated from the Holocaust, they built a country to be an immovable, permanent and safe place for the Jewish nation since ＂there is no one else except for us to do it＂. The other direction regarding the Holocaust that developed in Israeli art, examining in an universal approach the Israeli response to the Holocaust through the prism of local historical events occurring since the establishment of the State. Therefore, we see imagery that examines the aggressive impression of the Israelis, as an internal as well as external criticism of what seems as aggression and violence against another nation. In Israel, as well as in other Modem states, art is used as a means for expression of different viewpoints. In this article, I am focusing on the artistic references to the above approaches to the Holocaust.
文摘In the winter of 2010, the ＂Spring of the Arab Nations＂ suddenly erupted, leading to the collapse of the Arab old order and the fall of many Arab regimes that up until then were perceived as strong and solid. In many of the Arab states, the ＂Arab Spring＂, which began as a popular protest degenerated into a bloody civil war, and in the case of Syria it led in the summer of 2014 to the emergence onto the regional stage of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria （ISIS）. The earthquake in the Arab world was perceived by many Israelis as presenting a possible threat, not only to the regional stability and quiet that had reigned along lsrael＇s borders with its Arab neighbors, but also to the very existence of the peace agreements that had been a most important element in Israel＇s national security conception for four decades. In the face of this challenge, Israel chose a passive approach and to allow events to work themselves out and drag it along with them. In some of the arenas matters worked themselves out favorably, for example, in Egypt. In some of the arenas, like Syria and Lebanon, Israel remained a worried observer from the sidelines. In Syria chaos and Islamic extremism spread all over, and in Lebanon Hizballah continued to grow stronger. Meanwhile, the Palestinian arena with all its problems remained on ice, lingering in a state of waiting. Only time will tell whether Israel＇s policy was prudent or simply evasive. Was Israel behaving like the ostrich, burying its head in the sand and avoiding like fire any policy initiative？ Or was Israel＇s policy prudent, sound, and necessary given the limitations on Israel＇s power？
文摘Artemisia ordosica Krasch. is a dominant shrub occurring mainly on stable sand dunes in the Gobi Desert of China, in the Mongolian phytogeographic region. Achenes of A. ordosica germinate in light but poorly in dark and light is the limiting factor regulating the achene germination in sand depth. Achenes germinate in spring or autumn with an optimal temperature of 20 ℃. Achene mucilage can absorb large amounts of water and has important ecological function. Salt concentrations and sand moisture may regulate achene germination in sand. A. ordosica, A. sphaerocephala Krasch. and A. monosperma Delile. from different climates have similar responses to light, the underground location of achene, and sand moisture. Percentage of seedling emergence from different levels of sand depth is depends on the specific, temperature and intensity of light penetrating through the sand depths, as well as on sand moisture. The desert sand habitat seems to have had a dominant influence on the evolution of the germination strategies of these 3 Artemisia species.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China within the China-Israel Cooperative Scientific Research(No.2022YFE0100800)(Israeli No.3-18130)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52175551,22072181)+1 种基金the Leading Innovative and Entrepreneur Team Introduction Program of Zhejiang Province,China(No.2022R01001)the Zhejiang University Global Partnership Fund and Open Foundation of the State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems(No.GZKF-202224).
文摘Three-dimensional(3D)printing has attracted increasing research interest as an emerging manufacturing technology for devel-oping sophisticated and exquisite architecture through hierarchical printing.It has also been employed in various advanced industrial areas.The development of intelligent biomedical engineering has raised the requirements for 3D printing,such as flexible manufacturing processes and technologies,biocompatible constituents,and alternative bioproducts.However,state-of-the-art 3D printing mainly involves inorganics or polymers and generally focuses on traditional industrial fields,thus severely limiting applications demanding biocompatibility and biodegradability.In this regard,peptide architectonics,which are self-assembled by programmed amino acid sequences that can be flexibly functionalized,have shown promising potential as bioinspired inks for 3D printing.Therefore,the combination of 3D printing and peptide self-assembly poten-tially opens up an alternative avenue of 3D bioprinting for diverse advanced applications.Israel,a small but innovative nation,has significantly contributed to 3D bioprinting in terms of scientific studies,marketization,and peptide architectonics,including modulations and applications,and ranks as a leading area in the 3D bioprinting field.This review summarizes the recent progress in 3D bioprinting in Israel,focusing on scientific studies on printable components,soft devices,and tissue engineering.This paper further delves into the manufacture of industrial products,such as artificial meats and bioinspired supramolecular architectures,and the mechanisms,physicochemical properties,and applications of peptide self-assembly.Undoubtedly,Israel contributes significantly to the field of 3D bioprinting and should thus be appropriately recognized.
文摘The Israeli Desert constitutes 60% of the country＇s total area. Regional annual precipitation is 100-200 mm and evapora- tion reaches 2,500 mm. Traditional desert agriculture of rain fed wheat and sheep, goat and camels grazing is common. Despite the harsh climate conditions, advance agriculture is concentrated in foei where water resources exist. Desert ag- riculture takes advantage of the winter （October-April） due to a mild climate season for growing vegetables, flowers, herbs and fruit which are mostly exported to European countries. The key factor is the sustainable management of the local natural resources.
文摘During periods of global warming (GW), expected increases in urban temperatures can have adverse impacts on city climate and thermal discomfort due to combined urban and global warming effects. The different climates in four cities in Israel are studied for the purpose of differentiating global vs. urban warming. Trends in urban and nearby rural areas were compared in order to estimate the urbanization effect on the local climate zones. Daily 06:00 and 15:00 Local Time (LT) temperatures for July 1980-2014 were investigated. The linear relationship between the urban warming and population growth observed in present climate data is assumed to continue into the near future. The Regional Climate Model (RegCM) temperature trends into the 21st century are assumed to represent primarily the GW because of the relatively coarse grid interval of 25 km. Hence, this study first differentiates between global and local warming past trends, and then uses this past result to make future projections that consider both factors. A unique feature of this study is the large climatic variety over Israel—a small country that encompasses no less than 5 different K?ppen climatic zones. The urban minus rural temperature (1980-2014) changes, ΔTu-r, show more intense warming in the afternoon in all 4 cities. For instance, in Jerusalem and Eilat, the ΔTu-r has increased by ~1.2°C. Following the RegCM predictions, by 2060 with “No population growth”, this temperature increase is expected to continue, by 1.114°C and 1.119°C, respectively. If, however, these cities grow rapidly, air temperature will increase by 2.937°C - 4.129°C and 2.778°C - 3.939°C, respectively.
文摘Nutrient deficiencies are prevalent worldwide.Diseases and morbid conditions have been described to result from nutritional deficiencies.It is essential to address nutrient deficiencies as these may lead to chronic longterm health problems such as rickets,iron deficiency anemia,goiter,obesity,coronary heart disease,type2 diabetes,stroke,cancer and osteoporosis.In the present review we surveyed the extent and severity of nutritional deficiencies in Israel through a selective and comprehensive Medline review of previous reports and studies performed during the last 40 years.Israel populations have multiple nutritional deficiencies,including iron,calcium,zinc,folic acid,and vitamins B12,C,D and E,spanning all age groups,several minorities,and specific regions.In Israel,some of the nutrients are mandatorily implemented and many of them are implemented voluntarily by local industries.We suggest ways to prevent and treat the nutritional deficiencies,as a step to promote food fortification in Israel.
文摘AIM To evaluate and describe the efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation(FMT)for Clostridium difficile infection(CDI)in a national Israeli cohort.METHODS All patients who received FMT for recurrent(recurrence within 8 wk of the previous treatment)or refractory CDI from 2013 through 2017 in all the five medical centers in Israel currently performing FMT were included.Stool donors were screened according to the Israeli Ministry of Health guidelines.Clinical and laboratory data of patients were collected from patients'medical files,and they included indications for FMT,risk factors for CDI and disease severity.Primary outcome was FMT success(at least 2 mo free of CDI-related diarrhea post-FMT).Secondary outcomes included initial response to FMT(cessation of diarrhea within 7 d)and recurrence at 6 mo.RESULTS There were 111 FMTs for CDI,with a median age of 70 years[interquartile range(IQR):53-82],and 42%(47)males.Fifty patients(45%)were treated via the lower gastrointestinal(LGI,represented only by colonoscopy)route,37(33%)via capsules,and 24(22%)via the upper gastrointestinal(UGI)route.The overall success rate was 87.4%(97 patients),with no significant difference between routes of administration(P=0.338).In the univariant analysis,FMT success correlated with milder disease(P=0.01),ambulatory setting(P<0.05)and lower Charlson comorbidity score(P<0.05).In the multivariant analysis,only severe CDI[odd ratio(OR)=0.14,P<0.05]and inpatient FMT(OR=0.19,P<0.05)were each independently inversely related to FMT success.There were 35(32%)patients younger than 60 years of age,and 14(40%)of them had a background of inflammatory bowel disease.CONCLUSION FMT is a safe and effective treatment for CDI,with capsules emerging as a successful and well-tolerated route.Severe CDI is less likely to respond to FMT.
文摘Teaching is a stressful profession characterizing the work of teachers.The Neoliberal reforms have added a further burden on teachers’work,increasing stress at work and resulting in negative health,occupational and economic consequences.The aims of the study were to examine the perceptions of stress factors among Arab teachers in Israel,and the relationship between Arab teachers’stress factors by types of school(elementary,middle school,and high school)and gender.Stress factors were measured by using an instrument developed by Ablin et al.(2010).Three hundred forty-two public school Arab teachers participated in the study,of whom 230 were female and 112 were male.One hundred twenty-five worked in elementary schools,78 in middle schools,and 130 in high schools.The most stressful factors among Arab teachers were“busy schedule and lack of flexibility”,“the student composition of the class”,and“conflicting requirements between school assignments and home responsibilities”.Significant statistical differences were found between teachers’stress factors by gender and school type.Female teachers rated stress factors“the student composition of the class”and“conflicting requirements between school assignments and home responsibilities”higher than male teachers.Elementary teachers rated stress factors“student parents”,“lack of proper physical conditions”,and“requirement to teach a subject other than one’s specialty”higher than high school teachers.Middle school teachers rated stress factors“school management”,“general supervisor”,and“requirement to teach a subject other than one’s specialty”higher than primary school teachers.The leading stressor in this study is a result of educational disparities between Jews and Arabs.Israel formally purports to embrace the liberal responsibility of providing educational and development opportunities to all of its citizens,enabling them to actualize their full potential as human beings.
文摘For the Arab Moslem citizens of Israel, the Shari＇a court is the supreme judicial body competent to adjudicate and rule onmatters of divorce, custody, adoption, and custodianship. Under Shari＇a law, a boy will be in the custody of his mother until the ageof seven and the girl, until the age of nine; at the end of this period, the children are transferred to the father＇s custody. In cases wherethere is no father, they are transferred to the custody of the grandfather. In cases of dispute between the parents regarding custody,the Shari＇a court is called upon to rule, and for this purpose, it seeks a professional psychological evaluation of parenting competenceIt should be noted that this evaluation in Arab Moslem society involves professional and ethical issues since it is culturally-biased interms of Moslem culture： （l） Arab society is a collective comprised of extended families （hamula = clans）; （2） Men have apreferential status over women; （3） The functions of the father and the mother with respect to the child＇s needs （instrumental,emotional, and educational） are distinct from each other. It is further noteworthy that the psychological evaluation is made bydiagnostic information and accredited tools of evaluation. In the present situation there are no psychological tests that were adaptedfor the Arab population. The test must be reliable and reflect the reality being tested. Lack of standardization for tests makes themirrelevant. Furthermore, it must be said that in the Arab world there is no consensus about the tools constructed for this purpose in theWest. Psycho-diagnostic tools including evaluations that deal with testing the level of general intellectual functioning are found innearly every psychological service or mental health clinic, but it is obvious to everyone that at the end of the testing, one must relyalso on the tester＇s experience and professional ability in order to determine the etiology or to make a diagnosis that will reflect thesubject＇s innermost emotional or mental state. Therefore the model for evaluating parenting competence in general Israel society isnot applicable in Arab Moslem society, since it is culturally-biased and the two cultures are different from each other. Therefore it isnecessary to build a model for evaluation that is grounded upon： （1） Shari＇a law; （2） Reference to the extended family; （3）Differential roles of father and mother; （4） Psychological tests adapted to the culture being examined.
文摘This study analyses an iconic photograph of Israeli paratroopers, photographed in Jerusalem in 1967. It explores how visual and formal structural components in the image function in this photograph and how they contribute to the process of creating an icon. It explores the mechanisms that exist in visual icons and addresses the question of why some press photographs turn into iconic images while other do not, and if there is a connection between the visual structural elements in the images and the way they are perceived by the public. The study discusses how this visual logic correlates with other elements such as public opinion and myths.
文摘This paper analyzes how the Prime Minister of Israel, Binyamin Netanyalau, uses Israel＇s technological superiorityand innovative use of digital diplomacy to maintain a leading role in social media and an active and on-goingimpact on American politics. His global policy approach is based on the realization that we live in a world oftechnology, and since technology improves at a rapid rate, Israel should stand in the front of global change. Hispolitical and social media reign is unquestionable. He was elected the 10th most admired person in the United States,according to the ＂World＇s Most Admired 2016＂ YouGov poll that gauged the popularity of famous people in 30different countries. His personal Facebook page reached two million followers worldwide, more than half of themfrom the United States. As the research demonstrates, his popularity is the result of the ability to mobilize politicalskills with an effective media campaign. He derives his power directly from the public and engages that public indirect dialogue, bypassing the traditional media. This demonstrates a calculated and savvy use of new mediaplatforms, as his accounts are able to motivate high rates of interaction and interest among followers and others whocan view the posts.
文摘Our paper presents an interactive four-dimensional model for studying the long- and short-term development of the communication discipline with Israel serving as a case study： institutional-contextual, institutional-in-field, intellectual-contextual, and intellectual-in-field. Our empirical analysis utilized personal interviews, archive documents, and statistical data. Four main processes were discerned： transition from integration to alienation between institutions of higher learning and the larger political and ideological context; a shift from Hebrew University Institute of Communication＇s institutional monopoly to a multiplicity of increasingly competitive communication schools/departments; transition from intellectual hegemony to limited intellectual diversity; and gradually improving status for the communication field among social science disciplines. Our case-study analysis validated the interactive relationship among the model＇s conceptual dimensions, calling for future cross-national comparisons.
文摘The purpose of the article is to review the dynamics of the Orientalist agenda in Israeli modernism from the 1920s to the 1970s as the establishment of sign-object relations(semiosis)in the national art and music.The article considers,as a key issue,the phenomenon,which was not explicitly voiced as such,but was present at a conscious level in the artistic palette of the first and second generation of Israeli artists and composers.This refers to rather Eastern than Jewish narratives(or at least the delicate balance between them)in Israeli visual art and music created over the decades following World War I and up to the postmodern era.The main milestones in this process are reviewed based on the analysis of several selected artifacts.The scope of the topic begins with artists’acquaintance with the local motif and proceeds to the work with(and conceptualization of)various Eastern,Jewish,and Israeli symbols.
文摘This paper analyzes the impact of past trauma on national behavior in times of threat, applying Volkan＇s （2001, 2004） theory of multigenerational impact of trauma on large groups, and La Capra＇s （2014） theory of the use of the concept of individuals＇ trauma for understanding the behavior of traumatized collectives. The study of the Israeli response to the abduction and murder of three teenagers in summer 2014 is consistent with these theories, and shows how a collective with trauma in its past behaves similarly to a posttraumatic person. The paper contends that due to its traumatic past, the Jewish Israeli public perceived a tragic but limited （from a national security standpoint） hostile action as a grave collective threat, which invoked past demons and brought back existential fears. These feelings were inflamed by the Israeli media and leaders, paving the way for an escalation of the event into an armed battle.
