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Feasibility of a BRICS Common Currency
No full textIn 2006, Brazil, Russia, India, and China created the "BRIC" group. South Africa joined
in 2010, making it "BRICS". The group was designed to bring together the world's most
important developing countries, to challenge the political and economic power of the
wealthier nations of North America and Western Europe. Today, the BRICS countries
are exploring ways to reduce their dependence on the US dollar in international trade
and finance. By admitting new members into the alliance, they believe that a larger and
more diverse group of countries can better challenge the dominance of the US dollar in
the global economy. Consequently, the BRICS nations are promoting the use of their
national currencies in bilateral and multilateral trade, exploring the potential of digital
currencies and other financial instruments. In addition, Brazil’s president, affirmed by
the Russian prime minister, has called for the creation of a shared currency within the
BRICS group.
The purpose of this research is to analyze the feasibility of a monetary union in BRICS
through the examination of the extent of the bloc’s fulfillment of the OCA criteria. For
this purpose, I employed a mixture of qualitative and empirical analysis using
descriptive statistics and various econometric models. Results provide evidence of
economic symmetry in GDP growth rates, efforts in enhancing labor mobility,
technological, educational, and skill-sharing projects. Moreover, the results reveal
upward trends in trade, positive development in bilateral trade agreements, and growing
financial integration. Furthermore, the establishment of financial institutions such as the
NDB and CRA reflect commitment to advance economic consolidation. However, the
BRICS countries exhibit diverse economic profiles, political stability variations,
discrepancies in economic dynamics and fiscal conditions, and lack of a shared vision.
Therefore, for the monetary union project to be successful, the BRICS countries have to
address those challenges and focus on coordinating macroeconomic policies, develop
flexible monetary mechanisms, enhance fiscal policy coordination, reform their
financial institutions (NDB and CRA), seek convergence across a broader range of
macroeconomic indicators, foster legal and political readiness, commit to a shared
vision, and most importantly, learn from previous monetary union experiences, mainly
the EU
Novel Role for Sphingomyelin Phosphodiesterase Acid-like 3b in Radiation Nephropathy
No full textBackground: Radiation nephropathy remains a challenging complication for cancer patients who receive abdominal or genitourinary radiation therapy (RT). The kidneys are highly radiosensitive organs that impose an ablative dose limitation. Sphingolipids are key bioactive lipids that cross-talk with DNA damage response (DDR) effectors to determine cell fate after genotoxic injuries. The specific expression of sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase acid-like 3b (SMPDL3b) in podocytes modulates stress signaling and ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P) levels. Prior work suggested that radiation-induced loss of SMPDL3b mediates podocyte injury through cytoskeletal remodeling, filopodia effacement, and altering sphingolipids homeostasis. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in radiation podocytopathy remain to be further explored.
Aim: Our study investigates the role of SMPDL3b in regulating the DDR of renal podocytes after radiation injury.
Methods: Wild-type (WT), SMPDL3b overexpressors (OE), and SMPDL3b knock-down (KD) human podocytes were used as in vitro models for this study and were exposed to a single radiation dose of 2 Gy. We assessed the kinetics of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) recognition and repair along with ATM pathway activation post-irradiation. We also assessed the extent of DNA damage repair and apoptosis in an in vivo model using C57BL6 WT and podocyte-specific SMPDL3b-knock out (KO) mice at 24 hours after a single 14 Gy dose of focal renal irradiation. Additionally, we examined the effect of SMPDL3b expression on nuclear sphingolipids and nuclear membrane fluidity along with their impact on the DDR.
Results: SMPDL3b overexpression enhanced DSBs recognition and repair through the modulation of ATM nuclear shuttling and pathway activation. On the other hand, a significant delay in DSBs repair was observed when SMPDL3b was knocked down in vitro and in vivo. Ionizing Radiation (IR) altered the expression and subcellular localization of SMPDL3b from the lipid rafts of plasma membranes to the perinuclear and nuclear regions. Moreover, the expression of SMPDL3b regulated the nuclear membrane fluidity by altering its sphingomyelin content. Furthermore, SMPDL3b overexpression prevented radiation-induced alterations in the nuclear levels of C1P and ceramide. Exogenous administration of C1P radiosensitized OE podocytes by delaying ATM foci formation and activity, and subsequent DSBs repair. Conversely, pretreatment with ceramide kinase inhibitor (CERKI) radioprotected WT podocytes by enhancing ATM foci formation and activity, DSBs repair, and cell survival. These results suggest potential roles for the SMPDL3b and CERK/C1P axes in modulating radiation-induced podocyte injury.
Conclusion: We suggest that SMPDL3b regulates nuclear membrane fluidity, nuclear sphingolipids, ATM nuclear shuttling and pathway activation, DSBs repair, and consequently podocytes survival. The current work unmasks novel roles for SMPDL3b and C1P in radiation-induced DDR and paves the way towards further investigations on promising, novel therapeutic targets that may prevent radiation nephropathy
Phytoedaphic Interactions and Distribution of Heavy Metals and Microplastics in the Vicinity of an Open Dump
Get PDFOpen dumping is a global issue exacerbated by the increasing accumulation of waste and inadequate waste management practices. Lebanon, notorious for its large-scale waste mismanagement, is home to one of the largest open dumps, the Saida open dump. This site has a unique history, which contributes to the environmental quality and contamination levels of surrounding soil and vegetation. This study aims to investigate the relationship between heavy metals and microplastics in the soil and changes in plant community diversity at varying depths and distances in and from the open dump. While the interactions and distribution of heavy metals in soils and plants near open dumps have been extensively studied globally, research on microplastics in this context is less prevalent. A total of 8 soil samples were collected within the open dump, in addition to 12 soil and 16 plant samples from the vicinity of the open dump in a spatial gradient. The soil was found to be alkaline with a pH range of 7-8 and exhibited varying levels of contamination. Significant pollution by nickel and lead was observed, with higher concentrations detected greater soil depths and farther from the open dump. Microplastic analysis revealed a similar distribution pattern in both gradients, predominantly composed of fibers and fragments. The open dump exhibited little impact in terms of heavy metal and microplastic contamination on its vicinity. The selected plant species, Dittrichia viscosa, Phragmites australis, and Ricinus communis, demonstrated acceptable levels of heavy metal accumulation and resilience in contaminated soils. Higher species diversity was noted in older, more stabilized areas. Several measures are recommended for further research, including the assessment of heavy metal and microplastic levels in sediments and waterbodies near the open dump, as well as longitudinal monitoring of plant-soil interactions
Exploring Sex-Specific Metabolic Responses to Exercise Intensity: Implications for Fat Oxidation and Substrate Utilization Among University Students
No full textObjective: This study aims to investigate metabolic responses to exercise, focusing on fat oxidation dynamics and potential sex differences, to inform tailored exercise prescriptions and optimize health outcomes. Methods: Twenty participants (50% female, 50% male, aged 18-35) underwent comprehensive metabolic testing, including assessments of FatMax and VO2max. FatMax was defined as the exercise intensity maximizing fat oxidation, while VO2max represented
peak oxygen uptake. Results: Significant sex disparities were observed in fat metabolism during exercise. Males exhibited a significantly higher FatMax intensity (73 watts) compared to females (43 watts),
indicating greater efficiency in fat oxidation at higher exercise intensities. Maximal fat oxidation rates were also notably higher in males (0.4708 g/min) than females (0.3015 g/min). Conversely, heart rate at FatMax and respiratory quotient did not differ significantly between sexes, suggesting these variables did not influence observed differences in fat
oxidation. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of considering sex-specific factors in exercise interventions aimed at improving metabolic health. Tailoring exercise prescriptions based on these differences can optimize fat oxidation and enhance the effectiveness of exercise programs across diverse populations
Come On Guys! Lets Do it
Get PDFA children's book, created by AUB students from the Education Department, for the course EDUC218 as a final project.This book targets children between 4 to 6 years old. It raises awareness in children regarding their everyday life habits and experiences with technology, seeing the consequences of both good and bad ways of balancing in life
Mutations in the NADPH Oxidase Complex Resulting in Chronic Granulomatous Disease in Patients from the Middle East
No full textChronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is an immunodeficiency disorder characterized by
recurrent bacterial and fungal infections. The cause of CGD is defective neutrophil
function resulting from mutations in one of the seven components of the leukocyte
NADPH oxidase complex. The X-linked form is mediated by defects in CYBB encoding
Nox2 (also known as gp91), while the autosomal recessive forms are mediated by
mutations in CYBA encoding p22phox, NCF1 encoding p47phox, NCF2 encoding p67phox, and NCF4 encoding p40phox, which all make-up the major components of the NADPH oxidase. To function fully, these major components depend on RAC2 (encoded by
RAC2), a small GTPase of the Rho family, and EROS (encoded by CYBC1) a chaperone
of Nox2 that is essential for its expression. The aim of this study is to determine the
genetic, biochemical, and functional defects of CGD patients in Lebanon and other
Middle Eastern countries.
Twenty-one Lebanese and ten non-Lebanese patients who suffer from clinical symptoms
of CGD and who have defective NADPH oxidase function are included in this study. The
genetic basis of their disease was determined using next generation and Sanger
sequencing. The effects of the mutations on RNA synthesis and protein expression were
determined by RT-PCR and flow cytometry/immunoblotting, respectively. The
neutrophil function was determined using the dihydrorhodamine 123 (DHR) assay. The
phenotype and function of their T and B cells were determined by activation and flow cytometry.
The patients suffered from severe inflammation, bacterial, and fungal infections
associated with defective NADPH oxidase function, suggestive of CGD. Whole exome
sequencing (WES) of 10 patients from Lebanon revealed homozygous mutations in NCF2
and terminating hemizygous mutations in CYBB as the predominant alteration, whereas
3 non-Lebanese patients harbored homozygous deleterious mutations in CYBA, CYBB, or
NCF2. The remaining 18 patients suffered from defective NADPH oxidase function but
did not have a genetic diagnosis. Intracellular staining of 4 components of the NADPH
oxidase complex (p22phox, p47phox, p67phox, and gp91) revealed absent p67phox in 2
genetically undiagnosed patients that were subsequently found to have a large deletion in
exon 5 and a splice site mutation in exon 3 of NCF2. Interestingly, the patients with absent
p67phox protein expression also showed a significant decrease in the levels of p47phox. A study of the adaptive branch of the immune system revealed normal patient T cell
phenotype with diminished proliferative potential. The percentage of memory B cells was highly diminished whereas B cell function was maintained. T-regulatory cells were
higher in percentage in the patients, with signs of increased activity.
In this work we identified deletions in NCF2 as the most prevalent genetic defect in the
patients studied using WES. Since WES is costly and time consuming, we tested the
possibility of using a biochemical approach to identify the NADPH oxidase protein
component that is absent in the patient, followed by targeted Sanger sequencing to
determine the nature of the mutation. This led to the identification of 2 additional patients
with deletions in the NCF2 gene encoding p67phox, confirming that it is the most common
mutation in CGD patients from Lebanon. We also observed that absence of p67phox results in a significant decrease in the levels of p47phox but not p22phox and Nox2, suggesting that the stability of p47phox is compromised in the absence of p67phox. Furthermore, our results indicate that p67phox deficiency does not only affect neutrophil function, but it also
variably affects lymphocyte homeostasis and function
The "Battle of the Corridors" Regional Interconnectivity and the Geo-Economic Future of the Middle East
Get PDFIncludes bibliographical references (pages 25-30)This paper explores the historical and contemporary significance of economic corridors in the Middle East, tracing back to the inception of the Berlin-Baghdad railway project in the late 19th century. The analysis underscores how this early endeavor towards regional connectivity laid the groundwork for subsequent geo-economic rivalries. Subsequently, attention is drawn to present-day initiatives like the INSTC, BRI, Middle Corridor, and IMEC, launched by global powers to bolster their strategic influence and economic interconnectedness. Through a comprehensive examination of the objectives, progressions, and ramifications of these corridors, the paper aims to offer insights into their potential impact on regional trade dynamics and the future geo-economic landscape of the Middle East
The Environmental and Health Impacts of Disposal Methods for Expired and Unwanted Medications: A Scoping Review
No full textThe worldwide spike of pharmaceutical production as well as consumption have culminated in a worrying upsurge in pharmaceutical waste, featuring obsolete and unneeded pharmaceutical products. This broadening concern entails substantial dangers to public health and environmental welfare, reinforcing the absolute necessity for proper
management approaches. The improper handling of pharmaceutical waste certainly
intensifies environmental degradation from several angles, jeopardizes aquatic habitats,
and is contributory to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Regardless of the gravity
and magnitude of this critical subject matter, a comprehensive review of the available
literature pertaining to the elimination and management of undesired and expired
medications remains noticeably lacking.
In an attempt to resolve this research gap, an extensive scoping review was carried out,
employing search queries across three databases (Medline OVID, Web of Science, and
Embase) and grey literature, obtaining an initial 4,269 records and ending in the
inclusion of 67 articles for thorough examination. This report seeks to bring together an
all-embracing global overview of pharmaceutical waste disposal methods, indicate the
subsequent environmental and health consequences associated with these practices,
discuss the laws and regulations that regulate waste disposal, and accordingly, outline
environmentally-sound strategies for the future for alleviating the adverse impacts of
pharmaceutical waste. Furthermore, this paper showcases that a large portion of the 67
included studies (46.2%), mainly from the Global South, indicate an alarming dearth of
specific waste disposal laws and regulations, which strongly alludes to the urgency for
policy development and rigid enforcement. Another noteworthy discovery is the bleak
variance in how pharmaceuticals are discarded of: while medication take-back programs
prevail but differ in participation across Global North nations, most medications are
disposed of in household waste in Global South nations, which demonstrates substantial
variations in public consciousness, regulatory strength, and infrastructure development.
All in all, this scoping review perfectly captures the urgency and intricate nature
involved in handling pharmaceutical waste. Moreover, the primary results of this
thorough analysis chiefly underscore the crucial nature of integrated efforts and
initiatives among pharmaceutical companies, healthcare professionals, educational
institutions, local communities, and regulatory bodies to develop and put into practice
environmentally responsible disposal strategies.
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Ultimately, this thesis contributes to the discussion of sustainable waste management
through urging for holistic approaches that adhere to preventative and corrective choices
to safeguard both the environment and public health. Future research should revolve
around developing holistic waste management options which successfully target the
multitude of difficulties presented by pharmaceutical waste, warranting both the
morally-conscious and environmentally-responsible elimination of such substances
Exploring the Potential of Treated Wastewater Reuse for Irrigation in the Beqaa under Current and Future Climate Scenarios
No full textThe water resources in Lebanon are facing severe pressure due to the increase in the population, with the accompanying climatic changes that have exacerbated the water shortage problem. This study investigates the potential of treated wastewater reuse (TWWR) to supplement irrigation water needs to close the gap between supply and demand for crop production under climate change scenarios in the Beqaa Valley. A framework for the economic assessment of the (TWWR) for irrigation was provided as a solution for water shortages in the Beqaa. The Ablah region and its wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in the Beqaa were identified as a case study because they have an operational and an irrigation network for local farmers that supplies TWW to their land. After calculating the water requirements of the Ablah crops under the business-as-usual conditions and under the two climate change scenarios, the results showed that continuing with the current scenario will lead to an increase in the water deficit in future years. As a solution, the study suggested an improved agricultural scenario (IAS) to reduce groundwater withdrawals and increase crop yields by increasing the proportion of TWW in the water balance and reallocating the land to different types of crops that are more suitable for the specific regional conditions. The results revealed that the (IAS) increased the TWW contribution to 28% instead of 12% in currunt scenario of irrigation water, compared to reducing the pressure the groundwater contribution to 72%. Also, IAS reduces the deficit in both climate scenarios, as SC.1 will remain positive after facing a deficit, while the deficit in SC.2 is reduced by 70%.
Additionally, an economic assessment of the costs associated with (TWWR) to replace groundwater, including energy costs and crop yield profits, was conducted. The cost estimate showed that replacing some groundwater with TWW for irrigation is less expensive than full irrigation with groundwater, at prices of 0.48, respectively. Using TWW gave the farmer economic feasibility for supplementary wheat and grapes irrigation. In comparison, supplementary irrigation of wheat with groundwater was not economically feasible, and the study recommended that wheat remain rainfed. Therefore, the price of TWW can be considered the most important factor that affects users’ willingness to use TWW.
Most significant TWWR is an opportunity that must be exploited and developed to meet the demand for water and address the water shortage in Beqaa.
The framework of this study can be an important tool in facilitating the use of TWW and helping decision-makers and farmers manage and plan further
مقابلة عن الدكتور حسان حلاق وأرشيفه في مكتبة يافث
No full textمقابلة أُجريت مع د. باسم فليفل على تلفزيون لبنان بخصوص أرشيف المؤرخ البيروتي الدكتور حسان حلاق، الذي تبرَّع به ذويه لمكتبات الجامعة الأميركية في بيروت. تناولت المقابلة أيضًا جانباً من حياة الدكتور حلاق.An Interview with Dr. Bassem Fleifel on Télé Liban regarding Dr. Hassan Hallak's archival collection which was donated to AUB libraries by his family. Some aspects of Dr. Hallak's life were also discussed