Southwest Algeria Research Articles

Gas chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Computational Analysis, and In Vitro Effect of Essential Oils from Two Aromatic Plants, Bubonium graveolens and Launaea arborescens Growing in Southwest Algeria Against Potato Cyst Nematodes

Gas chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Computational Analysis, and In Vitro Effect of Essential Oils from Two Aromatic Plants, Bubonium graveolens and Launaea arborescens Growing in Southwest Algeria Against Potato Cyst Nematodes

Intelligent solar light electric vehicle moving in hot regions under a hybrid power source strategy

Solar Light Electric Vehicles (ISLEV) have recently gained increasing attention as a promising solution for sustainable transportation. In hot regions, such as the BECHAR region in southwest Algeria, where temperatures can exceed 50 °C, the challenge of maintaining high performance standards while coping with challenging environmental conditions is critical. To address this challenge, this study proposes an intelligent hybrid power source strategy comprising SUN Power solar PV and lithium-ion battery supercapacitors. To optimize the vehicle's performance, a feedforward neural network FF-NN is employed, which regulates the power flow between the hybrid sources. The proposed system's efficiency and effectiveness are assessed through simulations, which reveal its robustness in coping with challenging environmental conditions while maintaining high performance standards. The results show that the proposed system holds con-siderable potential for sustainable and efficient transportation in hot regions and can have broad applications in diverse sectors. Future industrial vehicle designs must incorporate the choice of hybrid power management into their planning process to ensure the efficient use of energy and optimize the vehicle's performance.

Effect of heat stress on Apis mellifera intermissa and Apis mellifera sahariensis in laboratory controlled conditions: a physiological approach

The effects of heat on honey bees have received attention in many subspecies. Nevertheless, some subspecies still remain unexplored. In this study, we investigate for the first time the effect of heat on two subspecies of honey bees endemic to Algeria, Apis mellifera intermissa which is adapted to the Mediterranean climate and Apis mellifera sahariensis, which is adapted to the hot climate of southwest Algeria. We tested the hypothesis that sahariensis is more tolerant to heat stress than intermissa. In two in-vitro tests, we reared workers of both subspecies at 4 temperatures (34 °C, 38 °C, 39 °C, and 40 °C). Then, we determined the hemolymph protein (HP) concentration, hypopharyngeal gland development (HPG), ovary development and survival. We found that the sahariensis had HPG more developed and less affected by heat than intermissa. Conversely, although intermissa had more (HP) at 34 °C, we found a significant increase in (HP) at 38 °C, 39 C° and 40 °C in intermissa than sahariensis. Although ovary development is greater in intermissa than sahariensis at 34 °C and greater at 34 °C than 38 °C, 39 °C and 40 °C, we did not record differences in ovary development between the subspecies at 38 °C, 39 °C, and 40 °C. Finally, in all conditions, sahariensis had a higher survival than intermissa.

Design and simulation of solar pumping system using PVsyst, case study: TSABIT - ADRAR in Algeria

In isolated sites, the extension of the electricity network requires a very high capital cost. For agriculture work, irrigation is a necessity. A possible solution is using renewable energy sources like solar power, which is environmentally friendly and available for free. This paper presents the design and simulation of a photovoltaic water pumping system for irrigation of a farm located at a place named Tsabit in Adrar southwest Algeria. A detailed approach for the design of an optimized PV water pumping system based on real water usage data is proposed. Besides, system design work and performance assessment were carried out based on hourly climatic conditions. PV SYST software is used to carry out this work. A comparison was also made between two water pumping systems with and without use of a sun tracker. From the obtained results, the use of this kind of system could have an important contribution in the social and economic development of a country, especially in the presence of a sun tracker device, where we recorded more efficiency.

Techno-economic study of a hybrid photovoltaic-diesel system for a remote area in southwest Algeria

Exploiting natural sun and wind resources in remote and isolated areas is undoubtedly an excellent decision to generate electrical energy due to their availability and cleanliness. Various systems were used to generate this energy, such as photovoltaics (PV), wind turbine sand other energy systems. Moreover, for optimum energy use, some of these systems are combined either with each other or with other conventional systems, such as diesel generators with PV systems (i.e., hybrid systems). This work aims to present a technical-economic study of PV/diesel autonomous hybrid systems to supply electrical power for an isolated house located in a hot desert climate, Adrar. For optimizing the hybrid systems, hourly input data of solar radiation and load were used according to two configurations, where the annual load is 11.2 kWh/day. The findings showed that the diesel system had a high cost, with a cost for energy of $0.407/kWh and a fuel price of $0.140/l. Among the hybrid power systems but with significant pollution, the proposed hybrid system 2 kw photovoltaic and diesel generator with 2.3 kW has important economic feasibility, where the energy cost amounted to $0.172/kWh. In addition, CO2 emissions are reduced by approximately 5 tons every year compared to an independent diesel generator system.

Optimization of a hybrid system (PV-fuel cell) of energy production for an isolated site

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the design and implementation of autonomous micro-grid systems, moving away from the traditional reliance on fossil fuels. Instead, these systems are now integrating existing renewable energy sources available in specific geographic locations to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility in the energy sector. One particularly promising approach for energy storage and transmission is through the utilization of hydrogen and solar energy, especially in remote regions where hybrid techniques can effectively meet the required energy demands. Our research focuses on electrifying an agricultural site located in the SBAA region, specifically in the city of ADRAR, southwest Algeria. We propose the implementation of an independent small electric network that combines various renewable energy sources, including photovoltaic (PV) systems and fuel cells. To ensure cost-effectiveness and optimize the system's performance, we aim to carefully control and size the system's components through a meticulous selection process. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of implementing renewable energy systems in the targeted region. Our goals are to reduce the total net cost, minimize energy expenses and unfulfilled load, while simultaneously mitigating CO2 emissions. To achieve these objectives, we employ the HOMER Pro simulation program, which enables us to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the proposed system's performance and economic viability. The proposed system incorporates a hybrid configuration of PV panels and fuel cells, leveraging the complementary nature of these two renewable energy sources. PV panels harness the abundant solar energy during daytime hours, while fuel cells provide a reliable and consistent energy source during periods of low solar irradiance or at night. By integrating these two technologies, we aim to establish a self-sufficient and sustainable energy system capable of meeting the energy demands of the remote agricultural site. Overall, the proposed renewable energy system demonstrates positive results in electrifying remote areas while maintaining a conservative cost of electrical energy. By implementing this system, we not only contribute to the establishment of sustainable regions but also promote environmental stewardship by reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

Hydrochemical assessment of groundwater using multivariate statistical methods and water quality indices (WQIs)

Groundwater quality assessment is crucial for the sustainable management of water resources in arid regions, where groundwater is the primary source of water supply and increasing demand raises concerns. The study area in Southwest Algeria relies heavily on groundwater as a source of water supply, and the increasing demand for freshwater raises concerns about the quality of groundwater. To assess the hydrochemical characteristics and water quality of groundwater in the Ain Sefra region, multivariate statistical methods, geochemical modeling and water quality indices were employed. The study revealed that the groundwater samples could be classified into four water groups using hierarchical cluster analysis Q mode (HCA), namely Ca–Mg–HCO3, Ca–Mg–Cl–SO4, Ca–SO4 and Na–Cl. Factor analysis was used to identify the main factors controlling the study area’s hydrochemical processes. The results indicated that water–rock interaction, reverse ion exchange and anthropogenic pollution were the main hydrochemical processes affecting groundwater chemistry. The water quality index indicated that the groundwater was suitable for human consumption, with only 2.32% of the samples being unsuitable. Additionally, the groundwater was suitable for agricultural use, but salinity control was necessary. The saturation index values showed that the groundwater was supersaturated with aragonite, calcite, dolomite, anhydrite and gypsum, and undersaturated with halite. Ca-smectite, Mg-smectite and kaolinite were identified as the primary processes controlling the chemical composition of groundwater. The application of multivariate statistical methods, geochemical modeling and water quality indices provided a comprehensive understanding of the hydrochemical characteristics and water quality of groundwater in the Ain Sefra region. The findings of the study can serve as a useful basis for future studies on groundwater quality assessment in the region.

Assessing indoor air quality and health risks of air conditioner usage in residential buildings under hot and arid climatic conditions: insights from field studies and questionnaire analysis

Abstract The prevalence of air conditioners (ACs) in regions with hot and arid climates raises significant health concerns for users. This study investigates the impact of AC usage on health and indoor air quality in Kenadsa, Bechar, located in southwest Algeria. A questionnaire survey was conducted among 300 residents to identify symptoms associated with AC use. Additionally, dust accumulation in filters was measured in 20 households with varying occupancy types to assess the relationship between particle generation and room usage. Temperature and relative humidity were also recorded in two rooms, one equipped with an evaporative cooler and the other with a split-type AC, to compare their thermal performance. The findings reveal that occupant behavior and building usage significantly contribute to particle generation, with AC operating speed notably impacting filter contamination. Evaporative coolers increase temperature and humidity levels compared to split-type ACs, with their effectiveness depending on proper ventilation. Most respondents begin using ACs in May, prefer operating them during midday and nighttime, and express concerns about thermal shock and AC lifespan. Furthermore, many participants are lax in dust removal, potentially worsening indoor air pollution. A significant portion of respondents report various health issues linked to prolonged exposure to conditioned air but show limited awareness of AC filter maintenance and its health implications. This study highlights the complex interplay between human behavior, AC usage patterns, and indoor air quality, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to promote responsible AC use, improve filter maintenance practices, and mitigate associated health risks in hot and dry climates.

Groundwater Quality Assessment and Irrigation Water Quality Index Prediction Using Machine Learning Algorithms

The evaluation of groundwater quality is crucial for irrigation purposes; however, due to financial constraints in developing countries, such evaluations suffer from insufficient sampling frequency, hindering comprehensive assessments. Therefore, associated with machine learning approaches and the irrigation water quality index (IWQI), this research aims to evaluate the groundwater quality in Naama, a region in southwest Algeria. Hydrochemical parameters (cations, anions, pH, and EC), qualitative indices (SAR,RSC,Na%,MH,and PI), as well as geospatial representations were used to determine the groundwater’s suitability for irrigation in the study area. In addition, efficient machine learning approaches for forecasting IWQI utilizing Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Support vector regression (SVR), and K-Nearest Neighbours (KNN) models were implemented. In this research, 166 groundwater samples were used to calculate the irrigation index. The results showed that 42.18% of them were of excellent quality, 34.34% were of very good quality, 6.63% were good quality, 9.64% were satisfactory, and 4.21% were considered unsuitable for irrigation. On the other hand, results indicate that XGBoost excels in accuracy and stability, with a low RMSE (of 2.8272 and a high R of 0.9834. SVR with only four inputs (Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, and K) demonstrates a notable predictive capability with a low RMSE of 2.6925 and a high R of 0.98738, while KNN showcases robust performance. The distinctions between these models have important implications for making informed decisions in agricultural water management and resource allocation within the region.

Digitization of Built Heritage through Terrestrial Close Range Photogrammetry: Advantages and Limitations. Illustration of Ksar Kenadsa Southwest Algeria

The objective of this manuscript is to evaluate the efficacy of the methodology of terrestrial photogrammetry for the digitalization and three-dimensional modeling of the built heritage. This will be done by utilizing the case of Ksar Kenadsa as an exemplar and by contrasting the outcomes of three-dimensional modeling of the entities that arise from various alternatives of spatial and architectural arrangement.

Assessment of water resources for livestock in the Wilaya of Naama, Southwest Algeria: a GIS-based approach.

This study employs Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools and spatial data to evaluate water resource availability for livestock watering in Algeria's southwestern Wilaya of Naama. The research adopts a two-stage approach, starting with the creation of seven thematic maps encompassing livestock water needs, proximity to water sources, water quantities from boreholes, hillside reservoirs, wells, and springs, precipitation, and land use/land cover (LULC). Subsequently, an Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is utilized to identify suitable areas within the Wilaya for livestock watering. Beyond its primary objective of establishing a benchmark for water resources to facilitate optimal and sustainable livestock management, this study also aims to assess suitable sites for livestock and provide a comprehensive evaluation of water resources for grazing. The findings reveal that the majority of the area is unsuitable for grazing due to limited water resources, with approximately 2.43% being "highly suitable" (S1), 13.42% "moderately suitable" (S2), and the remaining 84.15% categorized as "marginally suitable" (S3), "temporarily unsuitable" (N1), or "permanently unsuitable" (N2). These results underscore the significance of GIS and spatial analysis in natural resource management and emphasize the need for further research to refine the methodology. The data generated in this study will be invaluable to researchers and water stakeholders for informed decision-making in this sensitive zone.

Dynamic Stability Analysis with Real Data of Hybrid RES Integration in Southwest Algeria Power System Using Etap Software

Dynamic Stability Analysis with Real Data of Hybrid RES Integration in Southwest Algeria Power System Using Etap Software

Plant growth-promoting endophytic bacteria isolated from Launaea arborescens (characterization and molecular identification)

The present investigation aimed to assess endophytic bacteria's capacity to stimulate plant development. Eight endophytic bacterial strains were isolated from the root of Launaea arborescens (Batt.), native medicinal plant growing spontaneously in the region of Bechar (south-west Algeria). The eight strains were tested for their effects on seed germination and plant growth of Triticum aestivum L. The results showed that all strains had positive effects on wheat seeds germination. The seeds inoculation of wheat by endophytic bacteria improves morphological parameters of the seedling (fresh and dry weight of plant, root and stem elongation). 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to identify the powerful strain, it was found as Brevibacillus brevis. This one was found positive for many of the plant growth promoting attributes like ammonia production and azote fixing. In addition, it was identified as resistant to azithromycine during antibiotic sensitivity test and It could tolerate up to 0.9 M of NaCl. Additionally, Brevibacillus brevis was identified as resistant in the herbicide and the insecticide susceptibility test. Results suggest that this endophyte is a strong candidate for use as plant growth-promoting inoculants, to assist in lowering the amount of chemicals used in agricultural practices and enhance nutrient absorption and stress resistance in plant species.

Investigation of overexploitation groundwater in arid areas: case of the lower Jurassic aquifer, Bechar province Southwest of Algeria

The conservation of natural non-renewable water resources is an important part of the expectations of the Algerian population, especially in the south of the country. Groundwater is provided in the southwest of Algeria, and the demand for water is high including agriculture. Studies have shown that the quality of these resources has changed after many years of continuous exploitation. To meet the satisfaction and the need for drinking water, for the city of Bechar, located in southwest Algeria, technicians and decision-makers have sought additional water resources, namely in the Jurassic groundwater located at the region of Mougheul (Sahara Algerian). The intense use of pumping at Mougheul has led to serious local problems (rapid drawdown and drying up of the source). The obtained results reveal that the piezometric charts, established in October 2001 and November 2009, show that the main flow of water is from north to south, exactly to the source of Mougheul. The flow rates of the drillings made are very varied, and between 6 and 30 l/s, this amounts to the heterogeneity of the medium. The pumping tests give low transmissivity values varying between 3.22 10–5 and 5.49 10−3 m2/s.

Assessment of the role of the protected land in the preservation of the steppe in Southwest Algeria (Case of the Rogassa Region)

In the Algerian steppe (Rogassa) overgrazing led to the reduction of the surface of the pasture land and its biodiversity. The objective of this work was to highlight the importance of the protected land in maintaining biodiversity and preserving the degraded areas. A mixed sampling for the two different sites was adopted, where fifty floristic surveys were conducted using the Braun-Blanquet method. The analysis of the real biological spectrum of the unprotected land was marked by the strong dominance of the therophytes. However, in the protected land the chamaephytes dominated all of the biological types. The analysis of the biogeographic spectra revealed the reappearance of the endemic species (+3%). The Shannon Index was very important in this matter (2.43). The Student’s t-test of the biodiversity’s index showed a highly significant difference between the two sites. The ascending hierarchical classification revealed that the protected land is subdivided into four groups dominated respectively by: Macrochloa tenacissima, Lygeum spartum, Artemisia erba-alba and Hordeum murinum. The results of the Jaccard dissimilarity index indicated a strong difference of the order of 80% between the two areas.

Optimization of thermal comfort in buildings via analysis of a trombe wall for enhanced energy efficiency

This study investigates heat transfer phenomena in a building envelope in Bechar, Southwest Algeria, under arid climatic conditions. The meteorological station Energarid provides precise recordings of solar radiation and outdoor temperature. A calibrated model is used to analyze diurnal temperature variations. Wall temperatures exposed to solar radiation are estimated using recorded data. The heating power requirements of the building envelope are determined through a thermal balance approach based on the regulatory technical document from the National Center for Building Studies and Integrated Research. Simulation results demonstrate favorable conditions for achieving thermal comfort, with elevated air temperatures and velocities at the outlet. Incorporating solar energy considerations into architectural design, such as double facades, south-facing orientations, and glazed surfaces, is crucial. These findings highlight significant energy-saving potential, particularly in the Bechar region.

Phytochemical Screening and Evaluation of Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties of Extracts of Matricaria pubescens (Desf) Growing in Southwest Algeria

Phytochemical Screening and Evaluation of Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties of Extracts of Matricaria pubescens (Desf) Growing in Southwest Algeria

Evaluation of The Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of The Aqueous Extract of Anvillea radiata from South West Algeria

Evaluation of The Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of The Aqueous Extract of Anvillea radiata from South West Algeria

Water quality study of the foggaras in the Adrar region (southwest Algeria) using WQI and GIS

Water quality study of the foggaras in the Adrar region (southwest Algeria) using WQI and GIS

Acute toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of essential oils of Cotula cinerea from southwest Algeria

This work deals with the biological activity of the essential oils of an Algerian plant (Cotula cinerea) which belongs to the Asteraceae family. The study was carried out in the south-west of Algeria. We chose essential oils which are natural substances thanks to their numerous anti-infectious, antioxidant and antibacterial properties, etc. The objective of this work is to study the acute toxicity as well as the evaluation of the anti-inflammatory properties of the essential oils of both organs (leaves and flowers) of Cotula cinerea. As methodological approaches, we used the hydrodistillation technique to obtain the essential oils from leaves and flowers. Thus, the acute toxicity was determined by Lorke's method and the anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by measuring the plantar oedema of mice induced by carrageenan. The results show that the essential oil extracts of the leaves and flowers are low toxic substances with LD50s of 1131.37 mg/kg and 1264.91 mg/kg respectively. They also show a considerable anti-inflammatory effect at doses not exceeding 300 mg/kg with maximum percentages of 86.16% for leaves and 80.87% for flowers. These results show the efficacy of the essential oils of this plant and their therapeutic richness which can be used in traditional medicine for anti-inflammatory treatment. This study has provided additional knowledge on the biological activity of Cotula cinerea essential oils and has opened perspectives for the research of the active principles contained in this species as well as the application of biotechnology to know the molecular mechanism and valorise this natural wealth.