African Journal of Advanced Pure and Applied Sciences

Physicochemical Fingerprinting and Pollution Indicators of Hemodialysis Wastewater in a Developing Mediterranean Region

Malak A. D. Lajerd, Basmah A. Aldeeb, Wafa A. Aldeeb, Adel A. S. Banana — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Wastewater generated from dialysis centers represents a significant environmental concern due to its complex physicochemical composition. These properties may alter environmental conditions and pose potential risks to ecosystem stability and public health. This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of blood dialysis waste and water rejected from the treatment units from dialysis centers in Riqdalin and Al-Jamil hospitals. Samples were collected periodically from the discharge points of both centers over a period of four months, from August to November 2025, and tested in accordance with standard methods of wastewater analysis. The physicochemical investigation focused on the extent of temperature (T), potential hydrogen (PH), electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), dissolved oxygen (DO), nitrates (NO₃⁻), nitrites (NO2-), total nitrogen, total organic carbon (TOC), total phosphorus, and Oil & Grease. During an evaluation of effluent physicochemical properties of wastewater analysis, the effluents analyzed showed non-compliant with the WHO and Libyan standard specifications. The findings indicate an urgent need to develop specialized treatment strategies for this waste prior to final discharge to mitigate its environmental and health impacts.

Synthesis and Evaluation of New Pyrazoline Derivatives as Potential Anti-breast cancer Agents

Mariam Abubaker Salem — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Using creative, effective anticancer therapeutics, new kinds of heteroaryl pyrazoline compounds were synthesized, designed, and studied based on their anti-proliferative effects against breast cancer cell lines. The following pyrazoline derivatives were designed and synthesized: 5-(naphthalene-2-yl)-3-(phenyl)-1-tosyl-1H-pyrazole (NAPT) and 3-(4-N,N-dimethylamino)-phenyl)-5-(naphthalene-2-yl)-1-tosyl-1H-pyrazole (DMNAPT) Using naphthyl-chalcone derivatives, pyrazoline derivatives were synthesized and were determined using IR and ¹H-NMR spectra. Antitumor activity was also evaluated using the MTT assay. It was discovered that the compounds synthesized from 2-naphthyl chalcones (M1 and M2) exhibited relatively better anti-proliferative activity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Among the compounds that were evaluated, NAPT and DMNAPT were observed to have significantly moderate anti-proliferative activity on the MCF-7.

Fruit fly as a biological model for detecting the effects and toxicity of environmental pollutants on living organisms in the city of Benghazi

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The risk of environmental pollution is increasing year after year. To assess the impact and toxicity of pollution, the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) was used as a biological tool for this purpose. Accordingly, this study was conducted in several geographical locations within the city of Benghazi with the aim of monitoring and characterizing morphological mutations in the fly to detect the presence of environmental pollutants in the area.Random samples were collected from several regions during two consecutive seasons, namely the spring season 2024/2025 and the autumn season 2025/2026. The results of the morphological analysis showed the occurrence of a mutation related to wing deformity during the spring season in the areas of Sidi Khalifa, Al-Salam district, and Al-Majouri. In contrast, the same mutation was observed during the autumn season in the regions of Al-Halis, Qanfouda, and Al-Fuwayhat, along with a noticeable enlargement of the eyes in some samples collected from the Buatni area, indicating a possible variation in mutation patterns depending on environmental differences between locations.It is noteworthy that all individuals carrying the recorded mutations were females, except in the Al-Majouri area, while in the autumn season males were recorded in the areas of Al-Halis and Al-Fuwayhat. Statistical analysis showed that the percentages of affected males, females, and overall cases were (13.1 - 17.0 - 16.1)%, respectively, with an increase in infection cases in the second season, and females had higher rates in both seasons.The Chi-square results showed statistical significance in the regions and in the mutated cases for males, females, and overall, estimated at 27.1 - 45.8 - 120 - 165.4, respectively, at P < 0.05. The highest infection rate was observed in western Benghazi, and the infection ratio for males was one for every four females. This supports the need for further studies to understand and clarify the relationship between sex and mutation occurrence.

Study on the Effect of Delayed Field Compaction Duration on the Properties of Subgrade Soil in Road Construction

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study discusses the evaluation of the physical and mechanical changes occurring in the unbound granular base layer due to prolonged exposure to weathering and traffic loading prior to the final compaction and asphalt covering. The research adopted a comparative methodology encompassing three main phases. It began with the characterization of the source material and verification of its compliance with standard specifications (ASTM D422, AASHTO T180) in terms of particle size distribution and mechanical properties. In the second phase, a notable deterioration in the soil's structural framework was observed after one year of being laid bare, where storm water runoff and vehicle movements caused the particle size distribution to deviate from the allowable design limits, accompanied by a tangible increase in the percentage of fine particles and loss of layer stability.

In its third phase, the study moved to the practical side by treating the deteriorated soil and re-adjusting its gradation instead of fully replacing it. The results showed that the process of "gradation adjustment" by adding precise proportions of sand and coarse aggregate (1% sand, 1.5% coarse aggregate of size 20–30 mm, and 1% aggregate of size 0–5 mm) succeeded in bringing the gradation curve back within the specification limits. The study concluded that leaving base layers exposed leads to substantial changes in their properties, necessitating engineering re-adjustment. It recommended conducting periodic verification tests and adopting localized addition techniques as an economical and sustainable solution for restoring the design efficiency of the road.

Random use of Antibiotics and prevalence of antibiotic resistant bacteria

Saleh Abdualkarim, Ahmed Basheer — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the antimicrobial resistance patterns of bacterial isolates against a panel of commonly used antibiotics. Resistance percentages were calculated based on the number of resistant isolates relative to the total number of tests performed for each antibiotic. The results revealed considerable variability in resistance rates among the tested antibiotics. Cefuroxime demonstrated complete susceptibility (0% resistance), while gentamicin and cefotaxime showed low resistance rates of 17.4% and 19.0%, respectively. Moderate resistance levels were observed for ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone, with resistance rates ranging between 22% and 30%, whereas trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole, augmentin, and streptomycin exhibited relatively higher resistance rates ranging from 36% to 43%. In contrast, high resistance rates exceeding 50% were recorded for tetracycline (52.2%), erythromycin (55.6%), doxycycline (66.7%), amoxicillin (60%), and ampicillin– Cloxacillin (APX) 60%. The highest resistance level was observed for nalidixic acid (100%), indicating complete loss of efficacy

In-Silico Investigation of Selected Phytochemicals as Potential Androgen Receptor Modulators: A Molecular Docking and ADMET Study

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The Androgen Receptor (AR) is a fundamental therapeutic target for hormone-sensitive diseases, including prostate cancer. This study employed a computational workflow to evaluate the binding potential of five selected phytochemicals—Quercetin, Ursolic acid, β-sitosterol, Berberine, and Rutin—against the human AR (PDB ID: 2AMB). Ligand and receptor preparation were performed using Discovery Studio, while text editing and parameter adjustment were facilitated through Notepad++. Molecular docking was conducted using AutoDock Vina, and molecular visualization and interaction analysis were carried out with PyMOL. Docking results demonstrated that Quercetin and Berberine exhibited the most favorable binding energies of −8.8 kcal/mol and −8.7 kcal/mol, respectively, indicating strong binding affinity for the AR pocket. Evaluation of drug-likeness using Lipinski’s and Veber’s rules revealed that Quercetin and Berberine comply with pharmacokinetic criteria, whereas Ursolic acid, β-sitosterol, and Rutin showed multiple violations. ADMET predictions further identified Quercetin as possessing favorable oral absorption and metabolic profiles. Detailed molecular interaction analysis elucidated the key amino acid residues stabilizing the ligand within the AR binding pocket. These findings support and underscore supporting the identification of Quercetin as the most promising lead compound for AR modulation, providing a computational foundation for subsequent in vitro and in vivo investigations to validate Quercetin as a potential AR modulator.

Advancing Drinking Water Distribution Systems through Smart Water Applications: Insights, Benefits, and Lessons Learned

Ali EL-Turki — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The global water sector is increasingly challenged by population growth, urbanization, climate change, and water scarcity. Conventional management practices are proving inadequate to address leakage, inefficiency, and rising demand, underscoring the need for digital and data-driven solutions. This study investigates the role of Smart Water Applications, with particular focus on Smart Water Metering (SWM), in enhancing drinking water distribution systems. Using a multiple case study approach, SWM adoption in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and South Korea is analyzed, highlighting both pilot projects and large-scale deployments. Findings show that national policies, regulatory frameworks, financial support, and institutional readiness shape adoption trajectories. Across contexts, SWM provides wide-ranging benefits, including reduced water losses, enhanced leakage detection, cost savings, and improved customer engagement. Crucially, the study identifies significant gains in asset and maintenance management, such as predictive maintenance, optimized infrastructure monitoring, reduced operational disruptions, and extended asset lifecycles. Despite persistent challenges—most notably high upfront costs and legacy system integration—SWM emerges as a transformative pathway for improving efficiency, resilience, and sustainability in water distribution. The insights presented offer valuable lessons for utilities, policymakers, and stakeholders aiming to advance digital water innovation worldwide.

A Predictive Model for Attenuation and Phase Rotation in Mono- and Polydisperse Dusty Media at MW and mm-Wave Bands

Fowzi S. Alarabi, Hamza A. Juma — Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This paper presents a theoretical framework for predicting the attenuation and phase rotation of electromagnetic waves propagating in dusty storm environments. A mathematical model based on Rayleigh scattering theory and forward-scattering amplitude is developed for both monodisperse media (uniform particle-size distribution) and polydisperse media (exponential particle-size distribution). The model is used to evaluate the differential attenuation and phase shift of electromagnetic waves while explicitly accounting for non-spherical dust particles with different aspect ratios.

Published values of the dielectric constant and dust density in Libya are incorporated into the calculations across the X-, Ka-, V-, and E-bands. In addition, the study introduces an expression relating visibility to dust concentration and integrates it into the proposed models through visibility and frequency dependencies. Simulation results show strong agreement with selected published data. The results indicate noticeable differences in attenuation and phase behavior between mono- and polydisperse dry-dust media. These effects become more pronounced under severe visibility conditions or at shorter wavelengths, with the polydisperse medium exhibiting stronger impacts.

Hydro-Engineering Dynamics of Groundwater Rise and Urban Waterlogging in Arid Environments: An Integrated Review and Case Study of Sokna City in Libya

Mohmed Ahmed Yami, Gazala Sanusi Yami — Sat, 09 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Groundwater rise in arid urban environments poses a critical hydro-engineering challenge with serious consequences for infrastructure integrity, public health, and environmental sustainability. This study presents a field-based investigation of groundwater rise and waterlogging in Sokna City, Aljufra district, central Libya, a hyper-arid setting characterized by complex carbonate–argillaceous stratigraphy and severely deteriorated water and sewage infrastructure. The monitoring programmed spanned five months (March–July 2025), deliberately selected as the post-winter recharge window during which groundwater flooding and swamp formation reach their annual maximum in the Aljufra hydro climatological regime. Biweekly depth measurements at ten representative swamp sites documented cumulative water-table rise exceeding (100cm) during the April recharge peak, followed by evaporation-driven recession through July. A critical field observation was the identification of a perennial lake exhibiting year-round waterlogging, independent of seasonal rainfall interpreted as evidence of sustained anthropogenic recharge from chronic infrastructure leakage, and designated as the priority site for a future full-year monitoring programmed. Hydrogeological analysis confirmed that a compound low-permeability sequence of compact Miocene limestone overlying expansive clay generates perched aquifer conditions sustaining surface waterlogging across the urban fabric.

A three-layer Hydro-Engineering Interaction Framework (HEIF) is developed integrating recharge inputs, subsurface hydraulic constraints, and surface hydrological manifestations. Engineering recommendations include dimensioned subsurface drainage alignments at (1.5–2.0m) depth, targeted network rehabilitation to reduce non-revenue water losses from (~40% to below 15%), and mandatory foundation waterproofing standards. Findings are contextualized within the Libyan national experience, with explicit comparison to the Zliten waterlogging case.

Enhancing the Physiological Performance and Nutrient Utilization Efficiency in Two Faba Bean Cultivars via Nano, Mineral, and Chitosan Fertilization

Sanussi Ahmad, Mohammed Elmahdi, Bilkess M. A. Salim — Sun, 10 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A field experiment was conducted during the 2024/2025 harvest season in Sebha, Libya, to evaluate the physiological performance and nutrient use efficiency of two faba bean (Vicia faba L.) cultivars, under fertilization treatments: control, recommended mineral NPK, nano NPK, chitosan, 50% nano NPK + 50% mineral NPK, mineral NPK + chitosan, and nano NPK + chitosan. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used during current study. Water content, chlorophyll content, relative growth rate (RGR), the utilization efficiency of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium were evaluated. The combined application of nano NPK + chitosan resulted in the highest improvement in most of the studied parameters across treatments. The imported cultivar consistently outperformed the local cultivar in all evaluated traits, exhibiting greater leaf water content (88% vs. 80%), chlorophyll concentration (48% vs. 41%), relative growth rate (66 vs. 56 g/g/day), nitrogen use efficiency (57 vs. 46 kg/kg), phosphorus use efficiency (28 vs. 22 kg/kg), and potassium use efficiency (54 vs. 46 kg/kg). Nano-fertilizers and chitosan significantly enhanced water retention, photosynthetic efficiency, growth, and nutrient utilization, with the imported cultivar showing higher responsiveness. The findings suggest that the integration of nano-fertilizers and chitosan is an effective strategy to improve faba bean productivity in semi-arid regions of North Africa.

Time-Validated Latent Fault Detection in Gas Turbines Using Physics-Based Features and Interpretable Decision Trees

Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study addresses fault detection in gas turbines under sensor-limited conditions, where diagnostically informative measurements such as emissions and internal variables are unavailable. A leakage-aware framework is proposed using only five readily available thermodynamic sensors (AT, AP, TAT, AFDP, TEY). To compensate for missing measurements, physics-based features grounded in Brayton cycle principles are constructed. A proxy fault label is generated offline using high-fidelity variables (TIT, GTEP, CO, NOx), which are assumed to be unavailable during real-time deployment. A Decision Tree classifier is selected to ensure interpretability in safety-critical environments. To reflect realistic industrial conditions, a strict time-based validation strategy is adopted. The results show that the proposed model achieves an F1-score of 0.703, a Recall of 0.881, and an AUC of 0.951. Furthermore, random split validation is found to overestimate performance by approximately 5.7% in F1-score, highlighting the risk of optimistic bias in conventional evaluation practices. The proposed framework provides a practical and interpretable solution for fault detection under constrained sensing conditions, with direct applicability to legacy turbine systems.

Changes in some chemical quality of olive oil during the season in the Al-Jafara region – Libya

Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to evaluate the seasonal variations in the chemical quality of olive oil produced in the Al-Jafara region - Libya during the 2025 harvest season. A total of 33 olive oil samples were collected after extraction from mills. during November and December.

The analyses included free acidity, peroxide value, and oil extraction yield. The results revealed significant increases (P < 0.05) in free acidity and peroxide value in December compared to November. Mean acidity increased from 1.10% to 1.50%, while peroxide value rose from 11.05 to 18.03 meq O₂/kg. Conversely, extraction yield increased from 21.54% to 24.02%. These findings indicate that fruit ripening enhances oil yield but negatively affects oil quality due to increased oxidation and hydrolysis processes. The study highlights the importance of optimizing harvest timing and improving storage conditions to maintain olive oil quality.

Extraction and Determination of Aliphatic Alkanes in Marine Sediment Samples from the Coast of Tripoli (Libya)

Jumaa Al-Mansouri Tantoush — Wed, 13 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study, conducted on sediments from the coast of Tripoli, Libya in 2025, aimed to monitor marine pollution by assessing the spatial distribution and molecular composition of PAH (normal alkanes C9–C20) in surface sediments. Total organic carbon (TOC) was measured, and hydrocarbons were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Results showed that sediments were predominantly sandy (89.61%–99.8%), indicating a high-energy hydrodynamic environment that limits organic matter accumulation, as reflected by low TOC values (0.023%–0.079%). Statistical analysis revealed a strong negative correlation between sand and TOC (r = -0.84) and a positive correlation between silt and TOC (r = 0.79), confirming the role of fine particles in retaining organic matter. Total alkanes (∑C9–C20) ranged from 1510.1 to 8812 ng/g, with an average of 4770 ng/g, showing high spatial variability (coefficient of variation = 60.8%), suggesting the influence of local pollution sources. The highest concentrations were recorded at stations S5, S4, and S7, indicating accumulation zones linked to marine activities. Molecular distribution was dominated by long-chain alkanes (C15–C20), reflecting terrestrial petroleum and plant inputs, while lighter compounds (e.g., C9) at some sites indicate recent contamination. Correlation analysis showed a strong relationship between hydrocarbons and clay (r = 0.822), but a weak relationship with TOC (r = 0.079), indicating that hydrocarbon distribution is mainly controlled by sediment texture and external inputs. These findings highlight the combined influence of sediment characteristics, hydrodynamics, and human activities, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and sustainable coastal management.

Estimation of Soil Salinity for Samples from Jabal Al-Akhdar, Ras Lanuf and Benghazi, Eastern Libya

Salma G. Zbeda, Antesar J. Elmagirbi, Ayyadah A. Ahmed, Amal G. Saaid — Thu, 14 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study was conducted to estimate soil salinity in samples taken from Jabal Akhdar, Ras Lanuf, and Benghazi. Samples were collected at a depth of 20 cm and analyzed to measure pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), moisture content, organic matter content, and carbonates and bicarbonates. The results showed that the soils in these areas are neutral to slightly acidic, with pH values ranging from 5.8 to 7, electrical conductivity values ranging from 0.254 to 0.755 dS/m, and total dissolved solids content ranging from 154 to 434 mg/L. These soils are characterized by low water retention capacity, with moisture content not exceeding 5.7%, and very low organic matter content, not exceeding 0.16%. These soils are characterized by not containing carbonate and bicarbonate salts.

Storage and Preservation of Water Samples for Chemical Analysis

Sat, 23 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Sample storage and preservation are important steps in water chemical analysis. There are many changes may occur during the sample storage step. To minimize changes between sample collection and the analysis some probable problems have been discussed and some recommendations for sample preservation e.g. chemical additions, temperature control, choice of sampling container and holding time have been given.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Clinical Practices Regarding Denture Base Materials Among Dental Students and Practitioners

Salma A. Elnaili — Sun, 24 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Denture base materials are critical for the success of removable prosthodontic treatments, influencing both functional performance and longevity. Differences in the physical, mechanical, and biological properties of these materials may influence clinical performance, patient satisfaction, and material selection. Recent advances in digital dentistry, including CAD/CAM and 3D printing, have introduced alternative denture base materials and fabrication techniques; however, their routine clinical use remains limited. This cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices of 171 dental students and practitioners in Libya, regarding denture base materials, as well as factors affecting their selection. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests (p < 0.05). While 69% correctly identified polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) as the predominant material, 64.3% recognized that high-impact acrylic resins improve impact strength. Conventional heat-cured PMMA remained the most frequently used material in clinical practice (57.9%), whereas routine use of CAD/CAM-milled and 3D-printed denture bases was reported by only 9.4% and 8.2% of participants, respectively. High levels of knowledge were observed in 41.5% of participants and were significantly associated with clinical experience (p = 0.021) and specialty (p = 0.003). Material selection was primarily influenced by patient preference (64.3%), mechanical strength (62.0%), and cost (50.3%). Despite increasing awareness of modern denture base technologies, their routine clinical implementation remains limited, highlighting the need for enhanced education, training, and access to digital tools.

An Explainable XGBoost Model That Maps Breast Cancer Nuclear Biomarkers to Specific Genes and Pathways

Soha Mustafa Salih — Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Breast cancer remains a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, with over 2.26 million new cases and 684,000 deaths in 2020. Although next generation sequencing has advanced mutation detection, interpreting high dimensional morphological and genomic data remains challenging. Most machine learning models operate as “black boxes” lacking biological interpretability. This study develops an explainable AI framework using XGBoost on the Wisconsin Breast Cancer dataset (569 samples, 30 nuclear features) to classify malignancy and map morphological biomarkers to specific genes. The model achieved 97.3% accuracy, 0.98 sensitivity, 0.96 precision, and an AUC of 0.99.The top biomarkers worst concave points, worst perimeter, and worst area—were genetically linked to nuclear envelope instability (LMNA, LMNB1), actin dysregulation (ACTN4, CTNNA1), aneuploidy (MYC, E2F1), and epigenetic changes (EZH2). Chromatin texture was independent of nuclear size (r ≤ 0.37), indicating separate genetic controls. Unlike prior studies that report accuracy without biological grounding, this work offers testable genetic hypotheses and a clinically actionable pre screening tool for genetic laboratories, reducing unnecessary invasive procedures and advancing precision medicine.

Reconstructing Ancestral Connections in the Sahara Using the COI Gene: The Role of Western Libyan Cerastes cerastes in Biodiversity Conservation and Forensic Identification

Tarek Shoieb — Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

North African horned vipers (Cerastes cerastes) represent a widespread but poorly understood species complex across Saharan and Sahelian regions. Libya, despite its central geographic position, remains critically under-sampled in molecular phylogenetic studies of this group. Here we present the mitochondrial COI barcode sequence (621 bp) of a Cerastes cerastes specimen from the Nalut region (western Libya, near the Tunisian border). We compared this sequence to 11 conspecific sequences from Egypt, Chad, Niger, Mauritania, Morocco, and two outgroup species (Cerastes gasperetti, Cerastes vipera) using Maximum Likelihood (ML), Neighbor-Joining (NJ) phylogenetic reconstruction, Median-Joining network analysis, and pairwise genetic distances under the Kimura-2-parameter (K2P) model. Our results reveal that the Libyan Nalut specimen forms a strongly supported clade (bootstrap 99–100%) with populations from Morocco (Figuig and Oued Lakhchab) and Mauritania (Tiris Zemmour, Tagant, Trarza, Dakhlet-Nouadhibou), showing close genetic affinity (mean K2P distance ~0.032–0.034). In contrast, the Libyan haplotype is genetically distant from Egyptian and Chadian populations (mean distance ~0.045–0.063), suggesting a phylogeographic break coincident with the Libyan Desert and the Nile River corridor. The Median-Joining network demonstrated a novel haplotype in the Nalut region, which could indicate to cryptic diversity and potential local endemism. These findings could have direct implications for snake conservation in Libya, taxonomic revision of the Cerastes cerastes complex, and forensic identification. We strongly recommend expanded sampling across Libya’s diverse ecoregions to fully document the hidden genetic diversity in this understudied North African biodiversity hotspot.

Using Artificial Intelligence in Programming Language Education: A Review of Tools, Applications, Benefits, and Challenges

Ashraf Faraj Saed Albarki, Esam Miftah Abdulnabi Aboudoumat — Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

In recent years, there has been significant development in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) applications and tools in the educational field, particularly in learning programming and programming languages This review paper examines the role of AI in programming language education by analyzing major tools, educational applications, advantages, and associated challenges. The paper also discusses the most important AI-based tools used in programming education, such as Deep Code and GitHub Copilot, and analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of these tools and their impact on students and teachers. The results indicate that using AI in programming education contributes to improving programming comprehension, reducing errors, supporting self-learning, and accelerating the software development process.

Isolation and identification of fungi associated with strawberry fruits collected from three local markets in Al-Bayda City, Libya

Maryam F. A. Atiyah — Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa) are a fruit crop of high nutritional value and significant economic importance, cultivated worldwide. However, they are susceptible to fruit rot, leading to substantial crop and economic losses. This study was conducted to isolate the fungi associated with strawberries. Strawberry samples were collected from local markets in the city of Al-Bayda. The isolation was carried out by the agar plate method on PDA medium at 28^oC following a period of incubation. Strawberries sterilized with sodium hypochlorite and non-sterilized strawberries were used. The isolated fungi were identified depending on some characteristic morphologically such as colony characters include shape, size, color, surface texture, size and reverse of the colony/bottom of the colony. and microscopically such as the shape of conidia, conidiophores and septate hyphae (septate) and aseptate hyphae (non-septate). In this study, the results indicated that the fungi identified from the tested strawberries were as follows: Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium chlamydosporium, Penicillium crustosum and Rhizopus sp. The strawberries contained a higher percentage of contaminated fungi due to their high moisture content, which reached 85.7%. Therefore, it is essential to monitor moisture levels to prevent fungal growth.

Surface Modification of Copper Alloy by Nd: YAG Laser: An Analytical Study on Roughness Evolution and Wettability

Suleiman Elhamali, Lubna Zawi, Hussein Elmasrub, Abdulmagid Bouzed — Sat, 30 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Copper alloys are frequently used in a variety of industrial applications due to their high thermal and electrical conductivity. However, precise control over surface properties is required for improved performance in heat transmission, electronics, and corrosion resistance. In this study, the impact of laser treatment on a copper alloy surface irradiated by a pulsed Nd: YAG laser was investigated. The effects of laser power (10, 20, 30 W), scanning speed (100, 500, 1000 mm/s), and pulse repetition rate (10, 20, 30 kHz) on surface roughness and wettability were systematically explored. The experimental results were analyzed using the Taguchi method, which revealed that pulse repetition rate is the most critical parameter in controlling both surface roughness and wettability.

Impact of EM and NPK on growth and quality of maize

S. I. J. Mumin, A. F. B. Embarek — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A field experiment was conducted on a private farm in Tobruk during the 2025 season to study the effect of fertilization with effective microorganisms and NPK on the growth and quality of maize. The experiment consisted of seven treatments: control, 50 ml/L EM + 25% NPK, 100 ml/L EM + 25% NPK, 150 ml/L EM + 25% NPK, 200 EM ml/L + 25% NPK, 250 ml/L EM + % 25NPK, and 300 ml/L EM + 25% NPK, in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). The results showed that the addition of effective microorganisms at a concentration of 300 ml/l + NPK %25 recorded the highest values for both vegetative traits (plant height, leaf area index, number of leaves/plant, total chlorophyll content), yield traits (cob length, number of ears/plant, cob weight, ear weight/plant, 100-seed weight, grain yield, biological yield), and chemical traits (percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, protein). This was followed by the concentration of 250 ml/l NPK %25 + EM, which recorded the highest values for vegetative traits (plant height, leaf area index, number of leaves/plant, total chlorophyll content). Yield traits (cob length, number of ears/plant, cob weight, number of ears/plant, 100-seed weight, grain yield, biological yield), chemical traits (percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, protein), compared to the control treatment which recorded the lowest values for vegetative traits (plant height, leaf area index, number of leaves/plant, total chlorophyll content), yield traits (cob length, number of ears/plant, cob weight, number of ears/plant, 100-seed weight, grain yield, biological yield), chemical traits (percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, protein), respectively. The main activity of effective microorganisms (EM) seems to be increasing the biodiversity of soil microbes, leading to increased crop productivity. Photosynthetic bacteria, which are the main components of EM, are said to work synergistically with other microorganisms to support the nutritional requirements of plants and reduce the occurrence of pathogenic microorganisms.

An Empirical Comparative Analysis of ChatGPT and DeepSeek in NLP: Text Generation, Summarization, Translation, and User Feedback Evaluation

Aisha Hamed Bubaker, Nadia Mohammed Senussi — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Understanding the capabilities of AI tools is incredibly important, especially as they become more integrated into our daily lives. This study examines two AI tools: ChatGPT and DeepSeek-V3. This research aims to conduct a comprehensive comparison between the two tools in terms of performance, flexibility. In this paper we evaluate the capabilities of each tool in natural language processing. Data was collected by performing the same activities with each tool, and the accuracy and quality of the outcomes were recorded. Additionally, each tool's adaptability to various criteria was tested. The findings demonstrated ChatGPT's strong performance in general tasks and natural language processing, as well as its user-friendliness and high degree of adaptability to a wide range of needs. On the other hand, DeepSeek-V3 demonstrated outstanding performance in specialized tasks, producing precise and effective results in particular domains such as translation.

Incidence and Determinants of Postoperative Sensitivity Following Class I and II Composite Restorations: A Prospective Clinical Study

Abeer Faraj Mesbah, Siham Mohamed Omar — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Postoperative dental sensitivity following composite resin restorations is a common complication that may negatively affect patient comfort and satisfaction. Despite advances in adhesive systems and restorative techniques, the incidence, severity, and contributing clinical factors associated with postoperative sensitivity remain incompletely understood. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and severity of postoperative sensitivity after Class I and II composite restorations and to investigate its association with clinical variables including cavity depth, restoration class, adhesive type, insertion technique, and curing protocol.

Materials and Methods: A one-year prospective clinical study was conducted in 2024 at the Dental Learning Center in Sirt. A total of 218 patients aged 18–60 years requiring Class I or II posterior composite restorations were included. Restorations were performed according to standardized clinical protocols by calibrated operators. Postoperative sensitivity was assessed at 24 hours, 7 days, and 30 days using a Patient Sensitivity Follow-up Questionnaire that evaluated sensitivity type, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS 0–10) scores, and impact on daily activities. Patients were permitted to report more than one sensitivity trigger. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square and ANOVA tests with SPSS version 26.

Results: At 24 hours, 72 patients (33%) reported postoperative sensitivity, with cold stimuli (56%) and biting or chewing pressure (35%) being the most common triggers among symptomatic patients. Sensitivity decreased to 34 patients (16%) after 7 days and to 9 patients (4%) after 30 days. Mean VAS scores decreased from 4.2 ± 1.8 at 24 hours to 0.7 ± 0.9 at 30 days. Class II restorations and deeper cavities were significantly associated with greater sensitivity severity and incidence (p < 0.05), whereas adhesive type, insertion technique, and curing protocol showed no statistically significant associations. Among symptomatic patients, interference with eating was reported by 85% at 24 hours, decreasing substantially during follow-up.

Conclusion: Postoperative sensitivity following composite restorations was generally temporary and self-limiting, with most symptoms resolving within 30 days. Larger and deeper restorations, particularly Class II restorations, were more susceptible to postoperative sensitivity. Careful operative technique and appropriate patient counseling remain important for minimizing postoperative discomfort. Further multicenter studies with longer follow-up periods are recommended to better clarify factors influencing postoperative sensitivity and optimize restorative outcomes.