Northwest Algeria Research Articles

Use of a multi-criteria approach to analyze the degradation of reinforced concrete beam bridges. Three case studies in the north west of Algeria

The main motivation for this research is to develop assessment and estimation tools for the degradation state of existing civil engineering structures. The longevity of a structure is influenced by a complex set of interconnected phenomena and parameters. Therefore, we adopt a multicriteria approach aimed at better identifying these elements, particularly the most influential ones. This study focuses on assessing the degradation of reinforced concrete beam bridges by developing a digital tool based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). We have identified 30 factors impacting degradation, categorized as internal factors, such as the condition of structural elements, and external factors, such as age and environment. From these factors, we calculate a Global Bridge Degradation Index (GBDI) that reflects the overall condition of the bridge. This index allows us to establish a classification of the bridges, ranging from no danger to a critical state requiring immediate intervention. The innovation of our model lies in its ability to provide a quantified estimation of the degradation state while incorporating an unlimited number of factors and criteria. After applying this model to three bridges in Algeria, we observed satisfactory results. The ultimate goal is to provide managers with tools for reflection and comparison to assess the condition of bridges and consider the necessary actions for their maintenance, repair, or replacement, thereby contributing to the improvement of the management and safety of road infrastructures.

Expanded geographic range of Acanthodactylus savignyi (Audouin 1827), a near-threatened lizard (Squamata: Lacertidae), with a new provincial record

Acanthodactylus savignyi is one of Algeria's endemic and rare reptile species. A population of this species has been identified in a new locality within the Sidi Bel Abbes region in the Northwest of Algeria. This study provides a brief description of the species in this explored area, highlighting its ecological significance and potential conservation needs.

Phenolic content, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities of hydromethanolic extract of Limnospira fusiformis TL03 isolated from Telamine Lake, Northwest Algeria

Phenolic content, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities of hydromethanolic extract of Limnospira fusiformis TL03 isolated from Telamine Lake, Northwest Algeria

Distribution and habitat preference of Agama bibronii (Duméril, 1851) in Tissemsilt province, Algeria

The aim of this study is to investigate the spatio-temporal distribution and ethological analysis of the Agama bibronii in Tissemsilt province. This area of north-west Algeria is characterised by a rugged orography, dominated by rock formations, and these stone masses shelter a remarkable wealth of fauna and flora, including the A. bibronii that is the focus of our study. Field surveys carried out at monthly intervals between 2018 and 2021 in 16 different localities allowed us to observe 41 individuals (including 22 males and 19 females). This study revealed a concentration of A. bibronii populations in the southern part of Tissemsilt, particularly in bare rocky habitats, where the locality of Sidi Bentamra is the most marked, hosting the largest number of individuals. These results contribute to our understanding of the species’ distribution and habitat preferences in the region. The individuals identified at the end of this study will be the subject of an ethological study to better understand the biology and ecology of this reptile.

Effect of stationary factors on the yield and chemical composition of essential oils of Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) Masters from Sdama Chergui massif’s (Tiaret, North-West Algeria)

This paper aims to study the influence of exposure, altitude, and soil pH on the yield and chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) from the leaves of Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) Masters, developed in the Sdama Chergui massif in northwestern Algeria. These EOs were obtained by hydrodistillation, resulting in average yields of 0.33±0.13 %, 0.29±0.07 %, 0.24±0.07 %, and 0.2±0.03 %, recorded at the south, west, north, and east exposures, respectively. Upon analyzing the obtained EOs by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS), a total of chemical molecules grouped into 22 families were identified. The predominant compounds were Bornyl acetate (9.14 %, 7.95 %, 11.20 %, and 9.78 %), Limonene (5.03 %, 7.18 %, 5.76 %, and 5.41 %), α-Pinene (4.97 %, 5.26 %, 5.09 %, and 4.79 %), Camphor (7.53 %, 3.69 %, 3.01 %, and 5.91 %), and Borneol (5.20 %, 6.26 %, 4.93 %, and 5.11 %). Additionally, the analysis of these molecules by Factorial Analysis of Mixed Data (PCAmix) revealed that exposure, altitude, and soil pH have little effect on the yield and chemical composition of the essential oils of Tetraclinis articulata. Finally, careful attention to stationary parameters is crucial for obtaining essential oils of high quality and optimal quantity.

In vitro, modulation of the dominant intestinal microbiota in type 2 diabetics by controlling antimicrobial activity with the methanolic extract of Pistacia lentiscus L.

The intestinal microbiota has become known as the ‘second brain’ a complementary organ for most metabolic and defensive reactions. The study aims to investigate the potential of the methanolic extract of Pistacia lentiscus leaves to modulate the dominant flora in type 2 diabetic patients compared to healthy subjects, by controlling growth kinetics. Comparative study between the dominant flora of type two diabitics (DT2) and helthy subjects (HS) stools. Using fully sterilized experimental space and materials, the germs were isolated through an antimicrobial study, and their microbial growth kinetics, were analyzed both with and without phytotherapeutic treatment in vitro. This was carried out as part of a study into the effect of methanolic extract from the leaves of the Pistacia lentiscus L. plant harvested in north-west Algeria. The study found a decrease in the quantity of lactobacilli and streptococci in DT2 and an inverse relationship between enterobacteria and streptococci in all microbiotas. On the molecular side. The methanolic extract of P lentiscus leaves gave a super antimicrobial effect for E coli and Clostridium sp at concentrations below their Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (2 mg mL-1), compared with the other gram positives studied, lactobacillus and Streptococcus (4 mg mL-1). This beneficial action confirms the high antimicrobial effect of the methanolic extract of P lentiscus leaves with lower concentration for the quantitative restauration of intestinal microbiota, the intermediary between insoluno-resistance and metabolism. Pistacia lentiscus has the potential to modulate the dominant flora in type 2 diabetics, through its regulatory antimicrobial power.

Resistance and stylistic reverence: A typological study of colonial facades in Tlemcen (Algeria)

Abstract In Algeria, which was colonised for over a century, the arrival of the French colonisers led to the introduction of new architectural styles imported from Europe. This adoption of an exogenous style in a different cultural context was only made possible by French military domination. Importing and imposing a style was not always easy, as Algerian resistance was as much stylistic and socio-cultural as it was military. To illustrate this point, we have taken the case of the historic city of Tlemcen (Northwest Algeria), where the French occupiers met with stylistic resistance complicating the achievement of their colonial project. Our research raises the following question: What forms of stylistic resistance are manifested in colonial architecture in the city of Tlemcen? Our aim is to identify the specific characteristics of colonial architecture in Tlemcen, in order to bring out the signs of stylistic resistance that testify to a desire to maintain a local cultural identity despite the colonial influence. The typological analysis of colonial facades serves as a tool and a means of providing in-depth understanding of architectural facades and typological classification in view of the diversity of styles and ornamentation of colonial facades in Tlemcen. This resistance manifests itself in European revivalism in Tlemcen, which involved an exceptional effort aimed simultaneously at composition and a search for stylistic anchorage and originality. It also manifested itself at the level of the native population, who stepped in to protect their cultural heritage and identity against the colonial authorities. Moreover, a certain form of stylistic reverence can be detected, expressed in avoiding pronounced aesthetic or stylistic expressions, favouring instead a more universal and timeless appearance.

Using USLE, GIS and remote sensing for the soil loss assessment in the National Park of Theniet El Had, Algeria

Soil water erosion is one of the problems that affect the environment, agriculture and social life by threatening several land surfaces. The objective of this study is to use the USLE model, GIS and remote sensing (RS) to estimate the annual rate of soil loss by water erosion in the Theniet El Had National Park (THNP) which belongs to the mountainous ecosystem of Djebel El Meddad, located in the northwest of Algeria. The use of the USLE model takes into account the five factors controlling water erosion, namely: the rain erosivity (R) determined from the annual rainfall data, the soil erodibility (K) developed from soil survey data, the slope lengths (LS) generated by using DEM, the vegetation cover (C) by the use of RS data and erosion control management practices (P) by field trips. The integration of these factors made it possible to establish the quantitative map of the annual rate of soil loss varying between 0.02 and 55.10 (t/ha.year), with an average of around 6.64 (t/ha.year). Five erosion aggressiveness classes are used; very weak, weak, moderate, strong and very strong which represent a rate respectively of 23.70, 44.65, 22.72, 4.41 and 4.52 % of the study area surface. The areas with high and very high erosion rates are located in the north having a very rugged relief and low vegetation cover. This study can be used in the mountainous ecosystems and it will make it possible to set up priority intervention zones to combat the risk of water erosion.

Characterization of Shallow Sedimentary Layers in the Oran Region Using Ambient Vibration Data

This study investigates the structure of shear-wave velocities (Vs) in the shallow layers of the Oran region, north-west of Algeria, using non-invasive techniques based on ambient vibration arrays. The region has experienced several moderate earthquakes, including the historical Oran earthquake of 1790. Ambient vibration measurements were carried out at 15 sites throughout the study area. Two methods were used: spatial autocorrelation (SPAC) and frequency–wavenumber analysis (f-k), which allowed us to better constrain Rayleigh wave dispersion curves. The inversion of the dispersion curves derived from the f-k analysis allowed for estimating the shear-wave velocity profiles and the Vs30 value at the sites under study. The other important result of the present study is an empirical equation that has been proposed to predict Vs30 in the Oran region. The determination of near-surface shear-wave velocity profiles is an important step in the assessment of seismic hazard. This study has demonstrated the effectiveness of using ambient vibration array techniques to estimate the soil Vs structure.

Innovative versus traditional statistical methods in hydropluviometric: a detailed analysis of trends in the Wadi Mina Basin (Northwest of Algeria)

Innovative versus traditional statistical methods in hydropluviometric: a detailed analysis of trends in the Wadi Mina Basin (Northwest of Algeria)

Mapping and assessment of groundwater pollution risks in the main aquifer of the Mostaganem plateau (Northwest Algeria): utilizing the novel vulnerability index and decision tree model.

Water plays a pivotal role in socio-economic development in Algeria. However, the overexploitations of groundwater resources, water scarcity, and the proliferation of pollution sources (including industrial and urban effluents, untreated landfills, and chemical fertilizers, etc.) have resulted in substantial groundwater contamination. Preserving water irrigation quality has thus become a primary priority, capturing the attention of both scientists and local authorities. The current study introduces an innovative method to mapping contamination risks, integrating vulnerability assessments, land use patterns (as a sources of pollution), and groundwater overexploitation (represented by the waterhole density) through the implementation of a decision tree model. The resulting risk map illustrates the probability of contamination occurrence in the substantial aquifer on the plateau of Mostaganem. An agricultural region characterized by the intensive nutrients and pesticides use, the significant presence of septic tanks, widespread illegal dumping, and a technical landfill not compliant with environmental standards. The critical situation in the region is exacerbated by excessive groundwater pumping surpassing the aquifer's natural replenishment capacity (with 115 boreholes and 6345 operational wells), especially in a semi-arid climate featuring limited water resources and frequent drought. Vulnerability was evaluated using the DRFTID method, a derivative of the DRASTIC model, considering parameters such as depth to groundwater, recharge, fracture density, slope, nature of the unsaturated zone, and the drainage density. All these parameters are combined with analyses of inter-parameter relationship effects. The results show a spatial distribution into three risk levels (low, medium, and high), with 31.5% designated as high risk, and 56% as medium risk. The validation of this mapping relies on the assessment of physicochemical analyses in samples collected between 2010 and 2020. The results indicate elevated groundwater contamination levels in samples. Chloride exceeded acceptable levels by 100%, nitrate by 71%, calcium by 50%, and sodium by 42%. These elevated concentrations impact electrical conductivity, resulting in highly mineralized water attributed to anthropogenic agricultural pollution and septic tank discharges. High-risk zones align with areas exhibiting elevated nitrate and chloride concentrations. This model, deemed satisfactory, significantly enhances the sustainable management of water resources and irrigated land across various areas. In the long term, it would be beneficial to refine "vulnerability and risk" models by integrating detailed data on land use, groundwater exploitation, and hydrogeological and hydrochemical characteristics. This approach could improve vulnerability accuracy and pollution risk maps, particularly through detailed local data availability. It is also crucial that public authorities support these initiatives by adapting them to local geographical and climatic specificities on a regional and national scale. Finally, these studies have the potential to foster sustainable development at different geographical levels.

Q-SSC Behavior During Floods in the Isser Watershed, (North-West of Algeria)

Q-SSC Behavior During Floods in the Isser Watershed, (North-West of Algeria)

Does IT culture archetypes affect the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of e-banking services? A multistage approach of Algerian customers

PurposeThis paper explores the effect of individual information technology culture archetypes on the perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness of e-banking customers.Design/methodology/approachA multi-stage approach was used. First, a cluster analysis was performed (based on a survey of 360 Algerian bank customers). Second, a multiple regression analysis was assessed to test the hypotheses.FindingsThe cluster analysis reveals five IT cultural groups for e-banking customers: dangerous, dodgers, compliant dodgers, disenchanted and addicted customers. A mapping of these archetypes is then proposed and tested. The multiple regression analysis shows that the dangerous IT culture archetype exhibit the highest level of perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness beliefs when the dodgers show the lowest one.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is limited in that it adopts a relatively small convenience sampling in Northwest Algeria. Furthermore, enriching the model with other antecedents could be of use. However, it clarifies the issue of whether the same IT culture archetypes can be found in different contexts and show that the IT cultural archetypes list is not exhaustive.Practical implicationsThe study contributes to the existing knowledge on e-banking adoption in developing countries and provides Algerian banks with some crucial elements.Originality/valueThis paper is one of the first to investigate the impact of IT culture archetypes on e-banking adoption. It (1) identified five IT culture archetypes, (2) proposed a mapping of these archetypes, (3) reinforces the use of the spinning top model and (4) goes further as it applies it in a new context (developing country) and industry (banking).

Geostatistical Spatial Decision-Making for Identifying Road Hazardous Road Segments in Rural Areas

Abstract Road safety has now become a major concern in many countries. In Algeria, as elsewhere, many factors are involved in the phenomena of road accidents. In this field of research, our study aims to spatial identification along a road network the hazardous road segments which present a dangerousness index. We proceeded the use of geostatistical approach, in particular global G(d) statistic and local Gi*(d) statistic of Getis-Ord. However, in an operational framework, this approach is highly dependent on hypothesis on the process of the measurement of the spatial proximity based on the distances between the BSUs. Thus, the interpretation of empirical results based on the optimal choice of the weighting structure and the critical distance. Methodologically, this work allowed to test an approach for assess the safety levels experimented in the case of road network specifically higher accidents risk in the Wilaya of Mascara (north west of Algeria). The first results confirm the validity of the method and allow a recoverable mapping by managers in the choice of measures of preventive management.

Structure, floristic composition, and dynamics of Pistacia atlantica subsp. atlantica communities in the north-west of Algeria

Structure, floristic composition, and dynamics of <i>Pistacia atlantica</i> subsp. <i>atlantica</i> communities in the north-west of Algeria

Mapping Groundwater Potential Zones with GIS-RS-AHP Under Climate Change: Case of Mostaganem Plateau, Northwest Algeria

Mapping Groundwater Potential Zones with GIS-RS-AHP Under Climate Change: Case of Mostaganem Plateau, Northwest Algeria

Diagnosis of Soil Salinity in the Low-Chellif Plain, North-West Algeria, By Joint Measurements Of Electrical And Hydraulic Conductivities

Diagnosis of Soil Salinity in the Low-Chellif Plain, North-West Algeria, By Joint Measurements Of Electrical And Hydraulic Conductivities

Analyzing surface water quality and assessing environmental impacts downstream of the Tafna river (northwest Algeria)

Analyzing surface water quality and assessing environmental impacts downstream of the Tafna river (northwest Algeria)

Water contamination of the dam of Hammam Boughrara in the North-West of Algeria, as sustainable development falters

The main objective of this study is to examine one of the most critical environmental issues in Algeria, namely the pollution of water dams caused by urban waste generated by urban areas and the lack of environmental awareness. The study is based on a digital and geospatial database, and after analyzing it, we were able to define the study area and calculate surfaces and altitudes. On the ecological side, we collected data from accredited organizations and some specialized studies. The results showed that the Hamam Boughrara dam has reached a deplorable state of pollution, and some figures even indicate that the pollution has spread to neighboring areas, contaminating agricultural land with heavy metals, which poses a serious threat to human health. Moreover, Algeria's focus on the foundations of the state has delayed the development of environmental legislation for several years. Historically, the water issue has been a matter of bilateral and collective agreements between conflicting parties, resulting in solutions satisfactory to all. Pollution control is a collective responsibility, and all parties, whether local or international, must join forces to find a sustainable solution, taking into account the potential of the people. Keywords: Environment, Sustainable development, Hammam Boughrara dam, Water pollution

Automated GIS-based decision tool for rehabilitation of a drinking water infrastructure in Tlemcen, Algeria

Water resource management relies heavily on the utilization of decision-making systems to guide the strategic rehabilitation and renovation of infrastructure within water distribution networks (WDNs). This study aims to develop and apply a scripting tool in ArcGIS for decision-making in WDN. It combines a collection of decision support systems, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and multi-criteria analysis, for infrastructure renovation and rehabilitation. The research is divided into two main sections. The first focuses on creating and implementing the analytic hierarchy process tool in ArcGIS, while the second discusses its application in the study area, which is the drinking water distribution network of an urban area in Tlemcen, located in the Northwest of Algeria. The study’s results reveal that 25% of the network is in critical condition and require immediate rehabilitation. Sixty-two percentage of the network is classified as moderately urgent, indicating a pressing but less immediate need for intervention. Finally, the remaining 13% of the network requires attention over a longer timeframe for rehabilitation. The main criteria influencing pipe prioritization are material (26% of total weight), laying date (26% of total weight), and pressure (20% of total weight). This developed tool can be easily adapted and applied by engineers and water management officers. It serves as a guide for decision-makers and planners in urban water management in Tlemcen and can be replicated and applied to other areas worldwide.