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Neoproterozoic island arc assemblage of the Arabian–Nubian Shield (ANS) in the Eastern Desert (ED) of Egypt comprises juvenile suites of metavolcanics (MV), large amounts of meta-sedimentary rocks (MS), and voluminous metagabbros-diorites (MGD) and syn-tectonic intrusions of older granitoids (OG). We report here the updates of these four rock units in terms of classification, distribution, chemical characteristics, geodynamic evolution, metamorphism, and ages. In addition, we discuss these integrated data to elucidate a reasonable and reliable model for crustal evolution in the ANS. The main features of these rock units indicate their relation to each other and the geodynamic environment dominated by early immature oceanic island arcs to primitive continental arcs. Integrated information of the island arc metavolcanic and plutonic rocks (gabbros, diorites, tonalites, and granodiorites) furnish evidence of the genetic relationships. These include proximity and a coeval nature in the field; all protolith magmas are subalkaline in nature following calc-alkaline series with minor tholeiitic affinities; common geochemical signature of the arc rocks and subduction-related magmatism; their similar enrichment in LREEs; and similar major element compositions with mafic melts derived from metasomatized mantle wedge. The volcano-sedimentary and the OG rocks underwent multiphase deformation events whereas the MGD complexes deformed slightly. Based on the magmatic, sedimentological, and metamorphic evolutions constrained by geochronological data as well as the progressive evolutionary trend from extensional to compressional regimes, a possible gradual decrease in the subducted slab dip angle is the most influential in any geodynamic model for arc assemblage in the ED of Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In contrast to nearby countries, Jordan achieved a unique situation in mitigating the covid-19 outbreak. The privileged situation lasted for a few months. After that situation, Jordan became one of the worst countries all over the world. Drawing on a conceptual framework derived from Blau’s theory: exchange and power in social life, this paper reevaluates the dynamics of combating covid-19 in Jordan as an exchange process between government and people. Jordan’s government employed maximum power to control people’s movements and gatherings. However, it failed to meet people’s expectations of keeping their lives safe and fulfilling their basic needs. The government tried to legitimize the situation by providing fake information. It has lost the trust of society which supported the efforts of the government. It could not maintain its control of people’s gatherings and movements, resulting in a rise in the number of cases. Transparency, trust, awareness, and society’s efforts are crucial in fighting pandemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The instant blood-mediated inflammatory response (IBMIR) causes islet loss and compromises diabetes outcomes after total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplant (TPIAT). We previously reported a possible benefit of etanercept in maintaining insulin secretion 3months post-TPIAT. Here, we report 2-year diabetes outcomes and perioperative inflammatory profiles from a randomized trial of etanercept and alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) in TPIAT. We randomized 43 TPIAT recipients to A1AT (90 mg/kg IV x6 doses, n = 13), etanercept (50 mg then 25 mg SQ x 5 doses, n = 14), or standard care (n = 16). Inflammatory cytokines, serum A1AT and unmethylated insulin DNA were drawn multiple times in the perioperative period. Islet function was assessed 2 years after TPIAT with mixed meal tolerance test, intravenous glucose tolerance test and glucosepotentiated arginine induced insulin secretion. Cytokines, especially IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and MCP-1, were elevated during and after TPIAT. However, only TNFα differed significantly between groups, with highest levels in the etanercept group (p = 0.027). A1AT increased after IAT in all groups (p < 0.001), suggesting endogenous upregulation. Unmethylated insulin DNA ratios (a marker of islet loss) and 2 years islet function testing were similar in the three groups. To conclude, we found no sustained benefit from administering etanercept or A1AT in the perioperative period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The instant blood-mediated inflammatory response (IBMIR) causes islet loss and compromises diabetes outcomes after total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplant (TPIAT). We previously reported a possible benefit of etanercept in maintaining insulin secretion 3months post-TPIAT. Here, we report 2-year diabetes outcomes and perioperative inflammatory profiles from a randomized trial of etanercept and alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) in TPIAT. We randomized 43 TPIAT recipients to A1AT (90 mg/kg IV x6 doses, n = 13), etanercept (50 mg then 25 mg SQ x 5 doses, n = 14), or standard care (n = 16). Inflammatory cytokines, serum A1AT and unmethylated insulin DNA were drawn multiple times in the perioperative period. Islet function was assessed 2 years after TPIAT with mixed meal tolerance test, intravenous glucose tolerance test and glucosepotentiated arginine induced insulin secretion. Cytokines, especially IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and MCP-1, were elevated during and after TPIAT. However, only TNFa differed significantly between groups, with highest levels in the etanercept group (p = 0.027). A1AT increased after IAT in all groups (p < 0.001), suggesting endogenous upregulation. Unmethylated insulin DNA ratios (a marker of islet loss) and 2 years islet function testing were similar in the three groups. To conclude, we found no sustained benefit from administering etanercept or A1AT in the perioperative period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses a thus-far neglected dimension in human-artificial intelligence (AI) augmentation: machine-induced reflections. By establishing a grounded theoretical-informed model of machine-induced reflection, we contribute to the ongoing discussion in information systems (IS) regarding AI and research on reflection theories. In our multistage study, physicians used a machine learning-based (ML) clinical decision support system (CDSS) to see if and how this interaction can stimulate reflective practice in the context of an X-ray diagnosis task. By analyzing verbal protocols, performance metrics, and survey data, we developed an integrative theoretical foundation to explain how ML-based systems can help stimulate reflective practice. Individuals engage in more critical or shallower modes depending on whether they perceive a conflict or agreement with these CDSS systems, which in turn leads to different levels of reflection depth. By uncovering the process of machine-induced reflections, we offer IS research a different perspective on how such AI-based systems can help individuals become more reflective, and consequently more effective, professionals. This perspective stands in stark contrast to the traditional, efficiency-focused view of MLbased decision support systems and also enriches theories on human-AI augmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to prepare Ag-CuO nanoparticles and assess their efficiency in protecting the copper substrate. The prepared Ag-CuO nanoparticle was characterized using, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope/energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The anticorrosion performance of the epoxy coatings containing various weight percentages of Ag-CuO nanoparticles was evaluated in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution using potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. The results showed that corrosion potential shifted from − 0.211 V for uncoated copper to − 0.120 V for 5.0 wt% Ag-CuO/epoxy hybrid nanocomposite. Electrochemical measurements indicated that the coating 5.0 wt% coating exhibited excellent inhibiting properties with an efficiency of 99.9%. Wettability and mechanical properties were measured for both uncoated and coated copper substrates. The contact angle for 5.0 wt% coating is equal to 104° enhancing the hydrophobic character of the surface. The study clearly establishes that the hybrid composite has a significant potential for protecting the copper substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a serious complication of pediatric heart transplant (PHTx). 18F‐FDG PET/CT has been used to differentiate early lympho‐proliferation from more advanced PTLD. We report our experience with PET/CT in the management of PTLD following PHTx. Methods: This was a retrospective study of 100 consecutive PHTx recipients at our institution between 2004 and 2018. Patients who underwent PET/CT or conventional CT scans to evaluate for PTLD or high Epstein‐Barr viral load were included. Results: Males, eight females. Median age at transplant was 3.5 months (IQR = 1.5‐27.5). Median age at PTLD diagnosis was 13.3 years (IQR = 9.2‐16.1). Median time between transplant and PTLD diagnosis was 9.5 (IQR = 4.5‐15) years. Induction agents were used in 12 patients (50%): Thymoglobulin (N = 9), anti‐IL2 (N = 2), and Rituximab (N = 1). Eighteen patients (75%) had PET/CT, of whom 14 had 18FDG‐avid PTLD. Six had conventional CT. Nineteen patients (79.2%) had diagnostic biopsy confirmation of PTLD, and 5 (20.8%) had excisional biopsies. Two patients had Hodgkin's lymphoma; nine had monomorphic PTLD; eight had polymorphic PTLD; five were classified as other. Nine patients had monomorphic PTLD, including seven with diffuse large cell lymphoma (DLBC) and one with T cell lymphoma. The majority (16/24) had multi‐site involvement at PTLD diagnosis, and PET/CT showed that 31.3% (5/16) had easily accessible subcutaneous nodes. Seventeen patients (overall survival 71%) underwent successful treatment without recurrence of PTLD. Of seven deaths (7/24, 29%), five had DLBC lymphoma, one had polymorphic PTLD and one had T‐cell lymphoma. Conclusion: PET‐CT allowed simultaneous anatomical and functional assessment of PTLD lesions, while guiding biopsy. In patients with multiple lesions, PET/CT revealed the most prominent and active lesions, improving diagnostic accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report for the first time the combination of inline process analytical technology and optical imaging to track and understand different cleaning mechanisms governing the cleaning process of Olanzapine. Clean-in-Place process parameters were studied through simultaneous inline process analytical technology and image analysis in a film flow apparatus. Methanol and water were compared as cleaning agents, and the effect of flow (0.5—1 L.min−1) and temperature (20–40 °C, and 60 °C for water) was investigated. The cleaning process was assessed in terms of cleaning time, volumetric efficiency, surface residue and governing phenomena. Raman spectroscopy was used to prove no degradation occurred during cleaning. Temperature increase improves the efficiency even when solubility is negligible. High variability was observed when detachment behaviour is dominant, and it is then advisable to prioritize dissolution in the final clean-in-place steps to improve repeatability. Results show that the cleaning process is governed by an interplay of dissolution and mechanical shear phenomena and is more efficient when solubility is significant. The combination of in-situ process analytical technology and optical imaging analysis during process development allows for the determination of the most efficient and repeatable conditions, which in turn significantly reduces solvent usage in pharmaceutical cleaning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eliminating pollutants from wastewater is a crucial approach to securing the global water supply. It is well known that membrane purification technologies are remarkably attractive due to their high efficacy and low energy consumption. The neat polysulfone (PSF) polymer membranes, though, are prone to be fouled by organic pollutants, causing pore blockage and waned separation performance. We herein report and describe the rational design of a hierarchical porous Ag-Cu dendrites@SiO 2 core-shell nanostructure/PSF mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) by coupling heterogeneous dendritic Ag-Cu@SiO 2 core-shell nanostructure with PSF polymer matrix using facile phase inversion method for efficient separation of the protein (Bovine Serum Albumin; BSA) and Rose Bengal (RB) dye removal. Besides, for the first time, a theoretical mapping of molecular electrostatic potential (MESP) maps for chemical structure has been used for studying the interaction between the compounds (membrane moieties and pollutants). Practically, the SiO 2 nanoparticles provide excellent hydrophilicity causing a sequential efficient, antifouling protein and dye separation with an outstanding rejection rate of over 96 % for both BSA and RB. In addition, the porous hierarchical scaffold formed from the hydrophilic Ag-Cu nanosheets embedded with SiO 2 nanoparticles greatly assists the rapid permeation of water with a high flux rate of up to 50 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 for pure water. Furthermore, the hydrophilic nature of Ag and Cu nanoparticles also renders this membrane with a high removal capability for dye blocking enabling it to remove soluble pollutants in molecular dimensions as well. This design strategy not only provides an outstanding membrane for water purification but also sheds light on the design of multi-purpose functional membranes for a variety of energy and environment-related applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the effect of electrode material on the parameters of the produced DBD plasma was investigated. First, a non-thermal plasma was created by applying a 15 kV AC voltage between two electrodes and using a glass plate as a dielectric barrier in the design Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) plasma system. The obtained plasma spectrum was analyzed using optical emission spectroscopy to calculate plasma parameters by the Boltzmann plot method. Electrodes made of copper, aluminium, and stainless steel were employed in this research. Electron temperature (Te) for copper, aluminium, and stainless steel was found to be (1.398 eV), (1.093 eV) and (1.009 eV), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyaniline/nanocarbon (PANI/NC) nanocomposites have been prepared by in situ polymerization of aniline monomer in the presence of a stable colloidal solution of nanocarbon NC using ammonium persulfate as an initiator and silver ions (Ag+) as oxidizing agents to produce PANI/NC and PANI/NC/Ag2O nanocomposites, respectively. The morphological studies of the formed nanocomposites have been elucidated via transmission and scanning electron microscopes (TEM and SEM). Further characterization of the prepared nanocomposites has been done via infrared spectroscopy (IR), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), particle size distribution analysis (PSD), fluorescence microscope (FM), UV–VIS spectroscopy, and finally surface analysis. XRD results confirmed the presence of silver oxide Ag2O nanoparticles, and the obtained data is well matched with the JCPDS card number 76–1393 of silver oxide. XPS analyses have shown two prevailing characteristic peaks for Ag 3d5/2 and Ag 3d3/2 at 367.1 and 373 eV, respectively, representing Ag2O nanoparticles, which are matchable with the XRD analysis. The PSD analysis revealed that the sizes of the prepared nanocomposites are in the size range from 60 to 140 nm. The FM measurements showed luminescence from the prepared nanocomposites upon irradiation with different lights. This recommends that the fluorophores present in the prepared nanocomposites have the potential to both absorb and emit light. The AC conductivity and the dielectric permittivity of the obtained nanocomposites at room temperature and at different frequency ranges have been investigated. At higher frequency ranges, the maximum ac conductivity obtained was 1.06 × 10–2 and 2.5 × 10–2 S.Cm-1 for the PANI/NC and PANI/NC/Ag2O, respectively. As far as we know, these new nanocomposites with superior optical and electrical characteristics have not been described yet in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Longitudinal sacral fractures are usually a matter of controversy regarding decision-making for reduction, fixation, and approach. Percutaneous and minimally invasive techniques present perioperative difficulties, but with fewer postoperative complications compared to open techniques. The objective of this study was to compare the functional as well as radiological outcomes of the Transiliac Internal fixator (TIFI) versus Iliosacral screw (ISS) fixation of sacral fractures applied percutaneously in a minimally invasive technique. A Prospective comparative cohort study was conducted in a level 1 trauma center in a university hospital. The study included 42 patients with complete sacral fractures, 21 patients have been allocated to each group (TIFI group & ISS group). The clinical, functional, as well as radiological data, were collected and analyzed for the 2 groups. The mean age was 32 (18 -54 years), and the mean follow-up was 14 (12 -20 months). There was a statistically significant difference in favor of the TIFI group regarding a shorter operative time (P = 0.04) as well as less fluoroscopy time (P = 0.01) whereas there was less blood loss in the ISS group (P = 0.01). Both the mean Matta's radiological score, the mean Majeed score as well as the pelvic outcome score were comparable between the 2 groups with no statistically significant difference. This study suggests that both TIFI and ISS through a minimally invasive technique represent valid methods for sacral fracture fixation with a shorter operative time, less radiation exposure in TIFI and less blood loss in the ISS. However, the functional, as well as radiological outcomes, were comparable between the 2 groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to study the current legislation in the Arab world regarding noise pollution and to compare its laws, in a second step, with those of the European Union to identify the differences and similarities between these two groups of countries' policies. The methodology of this study was based mainly on analytical and comparative approaches to process the data collected from 31 legislation texts from 22 Arab countries. The data were obtained primarily from the official and governmental websites of the various ministries and state institutions concerned with environmental laws, using Arabic and second-language web searches in each country. This study shows that legislators in the investigated countries are relatively engaged in addressing environmental issues, especially noise pollution. Except for Somalia, all Arab League member countries have developed laws and regulations on noise pollution. However, there are no guidelines on noise measurement except in Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. As well, the governments of these countries still need to develop guidelines for noise mapping. Therefore, it is believed that the legislation in these countries needs to be revised and stronger. In addition, no trace of the soundscape subject has been highlighted in the Arabic legislative texts. The comparative analysis indicates that most Arab laws do not comply with the international standards established by the European Union governments. According to this study, revising and updating Arab laws is necessary, and action strategies must be implemented to achieve sustainability goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study makes a case for the use of dialectical Arabic in translating brands and blends from English commercials. We examine the translations of two KitKat and Snickers commercials which contained word blends and slogan statements. As we do so, we compare the dialectical translations with the Modern Standard Arabic choices to demonstrate that dialectical translation better fits into the genre of commercials as a popular culture text due to three main reasons. These include the informal nature of dialectical uses, the greater variation in the linguistic patterns, and the greater flexibility in accommodating new blends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Salmonella serovars in sheep and goats and their probable zoonotic potential to humans in Suez Canal Area, Egypt." The correction addresses an error in reference 13 of the original article, providing the correct publication details. The original article has been updated accordingly. The correction notice is authored by Hanan Abd El-Halim Hawwas, Abdel-Karim Mahmoud Aboueisha, Hanaa Mohamed Fadel, and Heba Sayed El-Mahallawy. Springer Nature, the publisher, maintains a neutral stance on jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) are an important cause of foodborne illness in humans with infections ranging from mild non-bloody diarrhea to bloody diarrhea (BD) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This study aimed to investigate the distribution of STEC in shellfish from coastal shores of Lake Timsah in Ismailia Governorate, Egypt and its probable hazard to seafood consumers. Samples from the external surface and tissues of shrimp (n = 45), crabs (n = 45), and oysters (n = 45) batches were examined bacteriologically for the presence of STEC and tested for their antibiotic sensitivity. Moreover, occurrence of virulence genes was determined via detection of stx1, stx2 and eaeA genes using PCR. Overall, E. coli and presumptive STEC isolates (from CHROMagar) were identified from the surface (55.6 and 5.9%) and tissues (42.2 and 8.9%) of the examined shellfish batches, respectively. Five STEC isolates had been confirmed and found belonging to O26:H11, O125:H6, O146:H21, and O159 serogroups, those were 4 isolates from tissues of the three shellfish species and one isolate from the crab surface. The STEC isolates were multi-drug resistant, showing complete resistance to; penicillins, amoxycillin/clavulanic acid, colistin, fosfomycin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and tetracycline, however, they were sensitive to gentamycin except O159 serogroup. The current study revealed low level of contamination of shellfish from coastal shores of Lake Timsah with STEC, however, it also highlights the extreme level of antimicrobial resistance exhibited by the presumptive and confirmed STEC isolates which is very hazardous for seafood consumers in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We report our experience with transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN) for giant hydronephrosis (GH) and compare the outcome data with open nephrectomy (ON). Patients and methods: The retrospective data of 88 patients (52 males and 36 females) who underwent LN or ON for treatment of GH in the period between October 2015 and December 2019 were investigated. LN was performed in 38 patients, while 50 patients underwent ON. We compared the two groups for success, operative time, and intraoperative and postoperative complications. Results: The mean age of the patients in the LN group was 45.8 ± 11.4 years, and it was 44.7 ± 10.8 years in the ON group. The mean operative time in the LN group was statistically significantly longer when compared with the ON group195 ± 18 min versus 127 ± 22 min (p = 0.01).The estimated blood loss was significantly greater in the ON group (p = 0.01). However, no patients required blood transfusions in either group. The visual analog pain (VAP) scores were significantly higher on both day 1 and day 2 in the ON group 3.6 ± 0.9 and 2 ± 0.7 versus 2.7 ± 0.6 and 1.4 ± 0.5 in LN group, (p = 0.01). Conclusion: LN for GH is feasible, safe, and efficacious. Compared to open surgery, the laparoscopic approach resulted in significantly shorter hospital stays, decreased morbidity, and quicker recovery. Some tips and tricks could help to do it in an easier way and reduce the operative time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic pathogen that causes wide range of nosocomial and community-acquired infections which have spread worldwide leading to an urgent need for developing effective anti-staphylococcal agents. Efflux is an important resistance mechanism that bacteria used to fight the antimicrobial action. This study aimed to investigate the efflux mechanism in S. aureus and assess diclofenac, domperidone, glyceryl trinitrate and metformin as potential efflux pump inhibitors that can be used in combination with antibiotics for treating topical infections caused by S. aureus. Materials and methods: Efflux was detected qualitatively by the ethidium bromide Cart-Wheel method followed by investigating the presence of efflux genes by polymerase chain reaction. Twenty-six isolates were selected for further investigation of efflux by Cart-Wheel method in absence and presence of tested compounds followed by quantitative efflux assay. Furthermore, antibiotics minimum inhibitory concentrations in absence and presence of tested compounds were determined. The effects of tested drugs on expression levels of efflux genes norA, fexA and tetK were determined by quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction. Results: Efflux was found in 65.3% of isolates, the prevalence of norA, tetK, fexA and msrA genes were 91.7%, 77.8%, 27.8% and 6.9%. Efflux assay revealed that tested drugs had potential efflux inhibitory activities, reduced the antibiotic's MICs and significantly decreased the relative expression of efflux genes. Conclusion: Diclofenac sodium, domperidone and glyceryl trinitrate showed higher efflux inhibitory activities than verapamil and metformin. To our knowledge, this is the first report that shows that diclofenac sodium, glyceryl trinitrate and domperidone have efflux pump inhibitory activities against S. aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Salmonella is one of the most common and economically important zoonotic pathogens. This study aimed to determine the occurrence of Salmonella serovars in sheep and goats and their probable zoonotic risk to humans in Suez Canal area in Egypt. A total of 320 fecal samples from sheep (n = 120), goats (n = 100), and humans (n = 100) were collected and examined for the presence of Salmonella based on cultural and biochemical characteristics, and serological analysis. Moreover, the virulence of the identified Salmonella isolates was assessed by molecular screening for invA, stn, spvC, and sopB virulence genes using PCR. Results: Overall, the occurrence of Salmonella in sheep feces (23.3%) was higher than that in goat feces (7%) and human stool (13%) in the study area. The identified isolates belonged to 12 serotypes; ten, five, and eight from sheep, goats, and humans, respectively. The most frequently identified serotypes were S. Typhimurium from sheep feces, and S. Enteritidis from both goat feces and human stool, with four serotypes; S. Typhimurium, S. Enteritidis, S. Dublin and S. Saintpaul, were mutually shared between all of them. Demographic data revealed that diarrheic sheep (85.7%) and goats (25%) had a higher risk for Salmonella fecal carriage than non-diarrheic ones (19.5% and 6.25%, respectively). The prevalence of Salmonella infection in humans in contact with sheep and goats (28%) was significantly higher than its prevalence in people having a history of contact with animals other than sheep and goats (10%) and those having no history of animal contact (7.3%) (χ2 = 6.728, P ˂ 0.05). The stn, spvC, and sopB genes were detected in 98.1% of the isolates, with a significant, very strong positive correlation for their mutual presence (P < 0.05). Approximately 40.7% of isolates that carried the invA gene had a non-significant, very weak positive correlation with other virulence genes. The most common genotypic virulence profile for all isolates was stn, spvC, and sopB; however, invA, stn, spvC, and sopB was the frequent virulotype for S. Typhimurium, S. Tsevie, S. Apeyeme, and S. Infantis. Conclusions: The present study highlights the role of apparently healthy and diarrheic sheep and goats as reservoirs and sources of human infection with virulent Salmonella serovars in the Suez Canal area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Salmonella is one of the most common and economically important zoonotic pathogens. This study aimed to determine the occurrence of Salmonella serovars in sheep and goats and their probable zoonotic risk to humans in Suez Canal area in Egypt. A total of 320 fecal samples from sheep (n = 120), goats (n = 100), and humans (n = 100) were collected and examined for the presence of Salmonella based on cultural and biochemical characteristics, and serological analysis. Moreover, the virulence of the identified Salmonella isolates was assessed by molecular screening for invA, stn, spvC, and sopB virulence genes using PCR. Results: Overall, the occurrence of Salmonella in sheep feces (23.3%) was higher than that in goat feces (7%) and human stool (13%) in the study area. The identified isolates belonged to 12 serotypes; ten, five, and eight from sheep, goats, and humans, respectively. The most frequently identified serotypes were S. Typhimurium from sheep feces, and S. Enteritidis from both goat feces and human stool, with four serotypes; S. Typhimurium, S. Enteritidis, S. Dublin and S. Saintpaul, were mutually shared between all of them. Demographic data revealed that diarrheic sheep (85.7%) and goats (25%) had a higher risk for Salmonella fecal carriage than non-diarrheic ones (19.5% and 6.25%, respectively). The prevalence of Salmonella infection in humans in contact with sheep and goats (28%) was significantly higher than its prevalence in people having a history of contact with animals other than sheep and goats (10%) and those having no history of animal contact (7.3%) (χ2 = 6.728, P ˂ 0.05). The stn, spvC, and sopB genes were detected in 98.1% of the isolates, with a significant, very strong positive correlation for their mutual presence (P < 0.05). Approximately 40.7% of isolates that carried the invA gene had a non-significant, very weak positive correlation with other virulence genes. The most common genotypic virulence profile for all isolates was stn, spvC, and sopB; however, invA, stn, spvC, and sopB was the frequent virulotype for S. Typhimurium, S. Tsevie, S. Apeyeme, and S. Infantis. Conclusions: The present study highlights the role of apparently healthy and diarrheic sheep and goats as reservoirs and sources of human infection with virulent Salmonella serovars in the Suez Canal area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aimed to examine the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown in Algeria on the soundscapes' components throughout the cafe terraces in coastal cities. The methodology is based on a laboratory qualitative approach established and divided into two stages. And the monitoring of sound recordings through twenty-one cafe terraces inside the coastal city of Azzaba in Algeria was conducted before and after the lockdown of whole the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Using the McNemar's test on the first stage, results suggest that the lockdown measures in Algeria affect the soundscape components of the cafe terraces, specifically the predominance of the anthrophonical sounds over the natural sound components. The predominance of traffic sounds on the soundscapes after the lockdown period does not reflect an increase in noise level, whereas the soundscapes through the cafe terraces during the two periods were similar, and showed as less noisy by the semantic difference analysis evaluation, of the second stage. The factors of the principal component analysis suggest that the soundscapes of the cafe terraces reflect the main patterns of the acoustics design in the public spaces, such as functions (relaxation and communication), space-time for the two factors of the soundscapes of the period before the lockdown, and by relaxation, space and time for the three factors of those of the period after lockdown. Otherwise, the Marginal Homogeneity Test shows that there are significant differences in the assessment of the soundscapes of the cafe terraces during the two periods, which were only associated to the functions. Findings suggest that additional long-term research is needed to preserve and improve the cultural soundscapes among the urban spaces to ensure the acoustic comfort of the occupants and preserve their health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Upon Seeking natural and safe alternatives for synthetic medicines to treat many chronic diseases, seaweeds have offered a promising resource to produce numerous bioactive secondary metabolites. Through in vivo investigations, Turbinaria decurrens acetone extract (AE) revealed its antidiabetic activity against alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Treatment of rats with T. decurrens AE at 300 and 150 mg/Kg doses revealed antihyperglycemic activity by reducing the elevated blood glucose level. A remarkable decrease in the liver, kidney functions, and hyperlipidemia related to diabetes were also detected. Administration of the same extract also showed a recovery in body weight loss, total protein, albumin, and haemoglobin levels compared with untreated diabetic rats. Furthermore, treatment of rats with the same extract improved liver and pancreas histopathological disorders related to diabetes. These effects may be attributed to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals and antioxidant components in T. decurrens AE mainly cyclotrisiloxane, hexamethyl, and cyclic diterpene 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol (phytol alcohol). Besides, other valuable secondary metabolites, as phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, steroid and glycosides, which were documented and published by the same authors in a previous study. The obtained results in the present study recommended using T. decurrens AE in developing medicinal preparations for treatment of diabetes and its related symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the gendered aspects of naming practices in Palestine. We study the personal names of the new generation in relation to name derivations and motivations in order to identify the emerging sociological aspects of naming practices in the West Bank of Palestine. We collected the names of the registered births over the last 10 years from local hospitals as well as the names of the parents, classified the names into separate categories and conducted structured online interviews with a random sample of parents from different areas in the West Bank of Palestine so as to elicit their motivation for giving their children the names chosen here. We classify the names into semantic categories and use these categories to disclose the motivations of the names using the premises of the socio-onomastic theory. The study concludes that the males in the study group are still given traditional names while females are given fashionable and foreign names that show the influence of the Western culture on the Palestinian people and the concern of Palestinians with females' beauty which promotes their future marriageability rather than with their being as autonomous subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report a novel supplement called Cu@Fe 3 O 4 core shell nanostructure (NS) that revealed a tremendous increment in the biogas production from anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge. Cu@Fe 3 O 4 core-shell NS is synthesized using feasible co-precipitation method and characterized using different techniques before and after anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge. Five different concentrations (5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg/L) of Cu@Fe 3 O 4 core-shell NS was supplemented to separate bioreactors to study their effect on biogas production from anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge compared to Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles alone. Microbial community assessed by next generation sequencing techniques has been used. The results showed a 3-fold increase in the biogas upon the use of moderate concentration (i.e., 20 mg/L) Cu@Fe 3 O 4 core-shell NS compared to using 40 mg/L of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles alone. There was a change in the microbial population after adding Cu@Fe 3 O 4 core-shell NS. The increase in the order of Clostridiales stands out, parallel to the decrease in Bacteroidetes. Regarding archaea, hydrogenotrophic pathway was the predominant, with partial replacement of Methanobrevibacter by Methanobacterium , while acetoclastic methanogen, especially Methanosaeta increased. Concisely, the deploying of the prepared Cu@Fe 3 O 4 core-shell NS not only resulted in enhancing the biogas production but also detoxified sewage sludge from hazardous materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Removal of selenite (Se (IV)) from wastewater is vital due to its more toxic and mobile properties. In this study, a novel dendritic silver‐dendrites@ copper with hierarchical side‐branches were synthesized through a two‐pot rapid, facile, and green precipitation route. Characterization of the dendrites by transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) confirmed the proper preparation of dendritic AgCu nanostructure. Significantly, the Ag@Cu nanostructure has high specific surface area (150 m2/g) and excellent adsorption activity toward selenite. The adsorption rate of Se (IV) on the dendritic AgCu reaches 94% within 60 min under normal adsorption procedures. Both adsorption kinetics and isotherms have been described well by the pesudo‐second order model and Langmuir model, respectively. The noticeable high adsorption capabilities can mainly accredit to the effect of the hierarchical side‐branched structure. Therefore, the dendritic AgCu nanostructure has a room of treating heavy metals‐contaminated industrial wastewater streams. Practitioner Points: Silver‐dendrites@ copper with hierarchical side‐branches were synthesized through a rapid and green precipitation route using copper nanoparticles.The prepared nanostructure was applied for Se (IV) adsorption at varying operational conditions (contact time, pH, and dose).High adsorption capacity for Se (IV) up to 173.1 mg/g was achieved using the prepared nanoparticles applying Langmuir isotherm model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research includes synthesis and characterization of some homogeneous binuclear complexes of Co(II), Ni(II), and Pd(II) with mixed ligands of thiuram, uracil thiuram disulfur or thymine thiuram disulfur, and cyclic amines. The formed complexes have the general formula of [M2(L)1(amin)2] where L = (thymine thiuram disulfur), (uracil thiuram disulfur) = (T‐TDS), (U‐TDS), amin = (1,10‐Phen.) (2,2′‐BiPy.), and M = Co(II), Ni(II), Pd(II). The synthesized complexes are characterized using the micro‐elemental analysis (C.H.N.S), electrical molar conductivity, magnetic sensitivity, and spectra methods (UV–Vis, IR and 1H NMR, 13C‐{1H}NMR). Antibacterial activity of ligands and complexes is evaluated with two types of bacteria Staphylococcus aurous (gram‐positive) and Escherichia coli (gram‐negative). According to the results obtained from physical and spectroscopic measurements, the complexes of cobalt(II) and nickel(II) have tetrahedral geometry and the palladium(II) complexes are square planar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlorpromazine (CPZ) is an antipsychotic phenothiazine which is still commonly prescribed though it causes idiosyncratic toxicity such as cholestasis. CPZ toxicity mechanisms involve oxidative stress among others. Cigarette smoke (CS) causes deleterious effects through diverse mechanisms such as oxidative stress. CS alters drug metabolizing enzymes expression and drug transporters expression and activity in animal cell models as well as in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. CS therefore alters pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics of many drugs including CPZ and caffeine whose toxicity is promoted by CS condensate (CSC). CSC interaction with CPZ toxicity deserves investigation. In this study, CSC exerted mild toxicity on Saccharomyces cerevisiae which resisted to this chemical stress after several hours. CPZ toxicity on yeast was dose-dependent and the cells resisted to CPZ up to 40 µM after 24 h of treatment. Yeast cells treated simultaneously with CPZ and a nontoxic CSC dose were less sensitive to CPZ. CSC probably triggers cross-resistance to CPZ. Using Sod1 mutant strain, we showed that this gene is potentially involved in the potential cross-resistance. Other genes encoding stress-related transcription factors could be involved in this process. Nicotine and cadmium chloride, which caused a dose-dependent toxicity individually, acted with CPZ in an additive or synergistic manner in terms of toxicity. Although our results cannot be extrapolated to humans, they clearly show that CSC and its components interact with CPZ toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on fieldwork and qualitative interviews of 43 mothers with disabled children in Bedouin communities of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), this article probes the research question of whether and to what extent the UAE social welfare system addresses the demands of these mothers. The limited literature on the intersection of gender, family and disability in the Arab world largely employs Western feminist models. Stressing established gender roles, cultural norms, coping mechanisms and structural constraints, these models are inadequate to explain the conditions of Arab communities. The articles contend that religiosity, mothers' job, family of origin and the child's gender are variables that significantly contribute to the explanation of the experiences of these mothers. Given the inadequacy of Western models, the article concludes by stressing that new perspectives based on the cultural features of the Arab world ought to occupy a more prominent position in the development of adequate theories that explain gender discrimination and inequality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface modification of Ti is the point of interest to researchers due to its promising biomedical applications, especially in bone replacement surgery. In the current work, a new bioactive (Ti) implant surface was prepared for possible dental and orthopedic applications by anodization and heat treatment. Ti was anodized at sequential potential periods in NH4F/glycerol bath at different glycerol concentrations and, then annealed to form crystalline TiO2 nanotube, labeled (cry TNT). Then the (cry TNT) was dipped in 0.29 g l−1 CaCl2 solution to diffuse Ca2+ ions into its infrastructure. The phase, morphology, and chemical composition of the prepared surface modified with/or without Ca2+ ions were examined with X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. The bioactive stability of the surface was investigated via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in simulated body fluid solution (SBF) to investigate the effect of incorporation of Ca2+ ions to induce hydroxyapatite-like structure via the fitting process. In conclusion, 10% cry TNT surface with pore size 43 nm was found to bind to Ca2+ ions from the bulk solution to fill its pores resulting in an increase in the resistance from 78 to 118 kΩ. The produced new bioactive surface with its high hydrophilic properties represents a promising approach to design and fabricate innovative surfaces with high bonding ability for dental and orthopedic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The studied sulfide mineralizations of Atshan and Darhib areas are related to the south Eastern Desert shear zones. They are hosted in talc- and tremolite-talc-rich rocks and also in meta-basaltic dykes and quartz-veins. The principal mineralization in Atshan includes sphalerite, pyrite, chalcopyrite, galena and pyrrhotite, whereas that in Darhib comprises chalcopyrite, sphalerite, pyrite, and galena with subordinate bornite and covellite. Darhib mineralization contains traces of altaite and electrum. Altaite has the highest Te concentrations suggesting crystallization under low fS2 and/or high fTe2 conditions, probably due to S budget consumption from the hydrothermal fluids in the late stage of deposition. Electrum has the highest Au contents with gold fineness value falling within the range of epithermal Au–Ag deposits. The dominance of recrystallized and replacement textures in the studied mineralizations suggests a secondary or post-depositional metamorphic overprint. The significant Cd contents in sphalerite from remobilized massive mineralizations hosted in tremolite-talc-rich rocks indicate crystallization at ~250–300 °C. Galena hosted in tremolite-talc-rich rocks is characterized by exceptionally high selenium and tellurium contents, indicating its generation from relatively Se–Te-enriched hydrothermal fluids. Pyrrhotite hosted in quartz-veins from Atshan was formed under lower sulfur activity (aS2) and oxygen fugacity (fO2). Covellite and bornite were formed due to chalcopyrite oxidation, revealing a role of supergene process. Shear zones, possibly produced during later thrust faulting, were acted as channel ways for hydrothermal mineralizing fluids that may have modified and/or precipitated the mineralization. Mineralizing fluids have probably resulted from dehydration during metamorphism and/or late-magmatic fluids from nearby granitic intrusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the 238U and 232Th radioactivity afford a perfect indication of the attendance of heavy minerals. Herein, integrated ground gamma-ray spectrometric data, X-ray fluorescence analysis and HPGe gamma-ray spectrometer data are employed to evaluate the natural radioactivity of the studied granite rocks. From X-ray analysis, 13 trace elements were estimated. All samples contain a high concentration of barium, zirconium and strontium. The concentration of uranium is high in all the collected twenty-four granite samples. The radiological hazard indices are computed to evaluate the possibility of applying the granites in various building materials. It was found that the granite rocks of the Southeastern Desert, Egypt are not safe for use as a building material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almost all nations are struggling to slow down the transmission of Covid-19 by restricting large gatherings and close social interactions. However, it is not expected that people will stop all social gatherings and interactions voluntarily. This situation requires the construction of a new social reality that compels people to abandon their traditional practices, particularly in countries such as Jordan that have a traditional social order and strong bonding social capital. Nevertheless, Jordan had the lowest rates of Covid-19 in the Middle East during the first four months of the pandemic, because its government used its power to impose restrictions and new regulations. However, the situation has become one of the worst cases in the entire world after the government eased its restrictions. The example of Jordan provides strong evidence that the social construction of reality sometimes requires coercive intervention. Thus, this article reconsiders and extends Berger and Luckmann's theory of social construction by examining it in the realm of social power. The theory includes three significant processes of social construction: externalization, objectivation , and internalization that should consider the concept of social power to extend the range of its powerful explanation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ophiolitic peridotites exposed in the Eastern Desert (ED) of Egypt record multiple stages of evolution, including different degrees of partial melting and melt extraction, serpentinization, carbonatization and metamorphism. The present study deals with metaperidotites at two selected localities in the central and southern ED, namely Wadi El‐Nabá and Wadi Ghadir, respectively. They represent residual mantle sections of a Neoproterozoic dismembered ophiolite that tectonically emplaced over a volcano‐sedimentary succession that represents island–arc assemblages. The studied metaperidotites are serpentinized, with the development of talc‐carbonate and quartz‐carbonate rocks, especially along shear and fault planes. Fresh relics of primary minerals (olivine, orthopyroxene and Cr‐spinel) are preserved in a few samples of partially‐serpentinized peridotite. Most of the Cr‐spinel crystals have fresh cores followed by outer zones of ferritchromite and Cr‐magnetite, which indicates that melt extraction from the mantle protolith took place under oxidizing conditions. The protoliths of the studied metaperidotites were dominated by harzburgites, which is supported by the abundance of mesh and bastite textures in addition to some evidence from mineral and whole‐rock chemical compositions. The high Cr# (0.62–0.69; Av. 0.66) and low TiO2 (<0.3 wt%) contents of the fresh Cr‐spinels, the higher Fo (89–92; Av. 91) and NiO (0.24–0.54 wt%, Av. 0.40) contents of the primary olivine relics, together with the high Mg# (0.91–0.93; Av. 91) and low CaO, Al2O3 and TiO2 of the orthopyroxene relics, are all comparable with depleted to highly depleted forearc harzburgite from a suprasubduction zone setting. The investigated peridotites have suffered subsequent phases of metasomatism, from ocean‐floor hydrothermal alteration (serpentinization) to magmatic hydrothermal alteration. The enrichment of the studied samples in light rare earth elements (LREEs) relative to the heavy ones (HREEs) is attributed to most probably be due to the contamination of their mantle source with granitic source hydrothermal fluids after the obduction of the ophiolite assemblage onto the continental crust. The examined rocks represent mantle residue that experienced different degrees of partial melting (∼10% to 25% for W. El‐Nabá rocks and ∼5% to 23% for W. Ghadir rocks). Variable degrees of partial melting among the two investigated areas suggest mantle heterogeneity beneath the Arabian‐Nubian Shield (ANS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Painful defecation, the passage of hard stools, unpleasant or irregular bowel deviation/movements from regular rate, and/or the feeling of not enough elimination of stool are common symptoms of functional constipation. The goals in treating constipation are to produce soft, painless stools and to prevent the re-accumulation of feces. This study looked at how the telerehabilitation home program (TRP) affected the symptoms of FC and the children who were constipated in terms of their quality of life. A randomized controlled trial included 400 children aging 4–18 years with functional constipation distributed in two groups: control group consisted of 200 children receiving pharmaceutical treatment and the intervention group consisted of 200 children receiving the telerehabilitation home program in addition to pharmaceutical treatment. Both groups received the interventions for 6 months. The outcomes in terms of functional constipation symptoms and quality of life are measured and compared pre- and post-interventions. Adding the telerehabilitation home program to pharmaceutical treatment of functional constipation in children results in prominent improvement in the condition; there is a significant difference between the intervention and control group in all Rome criteria which assess symptoms of functional constipation except rush to the bath-room to poop which showed non-significant difference; there is also a significant difference between the intervention and control group in all domains of the SF-36 questionnaire which assess quality of life except the mental health domain which showed non-significant difference. Conclusion: Adding the telerehabilitation home program to pharmaceutical treatment of functional constipation in children results in prominent improvement in symptoms of functional constipation and quality of life. Trial registration: Our study was registered retrospectively with Clinicaltrials.gov under the identifier NCT06207721 on 5 January 2024. What Is Known: • Painful defecation, passage of hard stools, unpleasant or irregular bowel movements, feeling of incomplete stool elimination are common symptoms of functional constipation. • Goals in treating constipation include producing soft, painless stools and preventing re-accumulation of feces. What Is New: • Adding telerehabilitation home program to pharmaceutical treatment resulted in significant improvement in functional constipation symptoms and quality of life. • Significant differences between intervention group (200 children receiving telerehabilitation home program in addition to pharmaceutical treatment) and control group (200 children receiving pharmaceutical treatment) were observed in all Rome criteria except for rush to the bathroom to poop, and in all domains of SF36 questionnaire except for the mental health domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Synthesis of soluble oxalamide derivatives and it application as anti-corrosion. • Correlation between quantum chemical calculation and the actual results. • Electrochemical apllication. Carbamothiol oxalamide derivatives as new compounds are synthesized and named N1, N2-bis (2- ((2-hydroxyethyl) amino) ethanethiol) oxalamide (bis 1), and N1, N2- bis(2-(bis(2-hydroxyethyl) amino) ethanethiol) oxalamide (bis 2). The noteworthy highlights of this method are eco-friendly, excellent yields, economic, catalyst-free, and solvent-free. Their chemical structures are clarified and validated using elemental analysis and spectroscopic techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (IR), 1H, and 13C- nuclear magnetic resonance. Then, Weight loss (WL), electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS), and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) techniques are applied to examine the inhibition impact of these new derivatives on copper in 3.5% NaCl. The density functional theory is used to apply theoretical computations. The results of the experiments indicate that these substances are effective corrosion inhibitors, and their inhibition efficiencies rise with concentration. The bis 2 compound having four OH groups, give the highest efficiency compared to bis 1. There was good agreement on the outcomes of the various procedures. Utilizing 0.01 M of bis 2 to examine the surface under the SEM reveals the existence of an adsorbed layer. All organic molecules, including nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen, block the metal surface as shown by the electronic parameters highest occupied and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy, and ΔE g. The results from theoretical calculations and those from experimental measurements correspond well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this study is to understand the influence of various chemical reactions that participate in NO creation or reduction in N2/O2 mixed gas induced by negative corona discharge under different X%O2 concentrations in the ranges 5%–25% in the N2/O2 mixture. The fundamental chemistry governing NO evolution developed in this article is based on a full set of processes regrouped in 150 selected chemical reactions involving 25 molecular, excited, atomic, and charged species. The density was calculated using the continuity equation without the diffusion and convective terms, beneath different values of electric reduced fields within the vary of 50–90 Td, at various times in the ranges 10−9–10−4 s. The results of our numerical simulations show the role played by different chemical reactions on NO production and reduction, such as N(2D) + O2 → NO + O and NO + O + N2 → NO2 + N2, respectively. We have found that, at 50 and 70 Td, nitrogen oxide creation dominates when O2 concentration equals 5%, while, for 90 Td, creation dominates when X%O2 concentration equals 10%. These results are the same for both reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkaline ring complexes are widely distributed in the south Eastern Desert (SED) of Egypt, but their petrogenesis and geodynamic settings are a matter of many discussions. In this contribution, mineral chemistry, and whole-rock geochemical data of the Maladob intrusive rocks were used to investigate their petrogenesis. The Maladob ring complex is a small alkaline intrusion in the SED of Egypt, composed of oversaturated syenite, quartz syenites and peralkaline granite. The rocks consist of K-feldspar (Or94–97) and albite (An0-1), alkali amphiboles (arfvedsonite and ferro-katophorite), sodic pyroxene (aegirine), with accessory aenigmatite, zircon, apatite, ilmenite, magnetite and titanite. Geochemically, the rocks are peralkaline, show distinctive geochemical characteristics such as low contents of CaO, MgO, Sr and high contents of alkalis, Rb, Nb, Y, and REE, typical of A-type granites. The rocks are weakly to moderately fractionated with a general enrichment in LREE [(La/Sm)N = 2.96–3.64]. Typically, the Maladob rocks are classified as within plate granites and exhibit A1 subtype characteristics. We suggest that the Maladob rocks were formed from a similar OIB-like mafic magma by fractional crystallization. The fractionation of feldspars and mafic minerals play a significant role during magma evolution. During the Mesozoic intraplate magmatism, the upwelling of asthenosphere causes underplating of lithospheric OIB-like magma which was subjected to prolonged fractional crystallization to produce the Maladob syenites and peralkaline granite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the mineral chemistry and geochemistry of ophiolitic peridotites from three localities in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, namely; Wadi Muweilha, Wadi Arayis and Gabal Kurbiyay. The present peridotites show variable degrees of alteration, including; serpentinized peridotites, serpentinites and talc-carbonate rocks with small-scale outcrops of chromitites, serpentinized pyroxenites and chloritites. Cr-spinel together with olivine and pyroxene relics represent the most common primary phases in the studied rock types. The investigated rocks represent mantle residues that experienced high degrees of partial melting. The Cr numbers of Cr-spinels reveal that serpentinized pyroxenites exhibit lower degrees of partial melting (~35%) than serpentinites and chromitites (> 35%). The whole-rock trace and rare earth elements (REE) data together with the elevated Cr# of Cr-spinels (>0.6), high Mg# of olivines (Fo = 90.82–92.61) and depleted composition of clinopyroxene are consistent with a fore-arc supra-subduction zone environment. The enrichment of light rare earth elements (LREEs) relative to heavy ones (HREE) in samples of W. Muweilha and W. Arayis could be attributed to the induction of serpentinization-related hydrothermal fluids. In contrast, the studied samples of G. Kurbiyay are depleted in LREE compared with HREE in common with a previously formed abyssal peridotite that later modified in a fore-arc region. The serpentinized pyroxenites and chloritites are speculated a genetic relationship with the rest of the mantle suite. The former is produced by the assimilation of subducted sediments in arc-related magmas. The latter is considered to be products of retrograde metamorphism simultaneously with the obduction and thrusting of the ophiolitic ultramafics. The investigated Cr-rich chromitites were formed from boninitic melts resulting from the high-degree melting of the sub-arc depleted mantle in the presence of slab-derived fluids at a mature-arc stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to illustrate the dialogic significance of the trance dance, a discursive scene of women's bodily expressions, in the Algerian feminist postcolonial novelist and film director, Assia Djebar's Fantasia (1985). While Djebar's literary oeuvre has been subject to enormous critical readings, this essay focuses on Djebar's representation of the female body as a medium of subversive expression in the ritualistic trance dance. Following the critical lines of psychoanalysis, deconstruction, and postmodern and postcolonial feminism, we contend that the trance scene is an uncanny, subjective space of women's collective voices that undermine patriarchal authority. Women's movement into the domestic sphere of the Harem is a retreat into the semiotic, imaginary order and an escape from the symbolic order that deprives women from their bodies and their expressions. Thus, we propose that the trance privileges the matriarch's body/signs over the phallocentric system of Arab, benign patriarchy, her unconscious over social consciousness, irrationality over rationality, the ritual over the real, and ultimately the feminine over the masculine. The dissident practice of periodic dancing gives a space for dancers to claim dramatic authority and agency over their bodies, that is, to empower themselves socially and psychologically despite the patriarchal constraints lurking over them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of reaction cross sections of 1 3 , 1 4 , 1 5 B + C , Al are performed with Glauber model (GM) including medium modifications arising from Fermi motion and in-medium nucleon–nucleon (NN) total reaction cross section. The density distributions of Boron isotopes are described by a deformed-average Fermi shape, whose proton and neutron radii and deformation parameters are derived from relativistic mean field (RMF), harmonic oscillator (HO) and two-parameter Fermi (2pF). These densities can describe the reaction cross section of Boron isotopes except for 1 4 B which is better described by an HO core plus extended Gaussian (HOG) or HO plus a modified Yukawa (HOMY) tail, which depends on the 1n separation energy. It is found that Fermi motion effects dominated at intermediate energy, and they are important to describe the data in addition to in-medium effects. In-medium effects, which are incorporated locally, reduced the reaction cross section by about 3–5% at all energies. 1 4 B is confirmed as a one-neutron halo nucleus, where a large extended tail is observed in the extracted HOMY and HOG model densities as well as in the extracted radii, where the matter radius of 1 4 B is found to be about 2.92 fm, which is larger than that of 1 3 B (2.5 fm) and 1 5 B (2.82 fm) predicted using the GM model including Fermi motion and in-medium effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

System design centering process looks for nominal values of system designable parameters that maximize the probability of satisfying the design specifications (yield function). Statistical design centering implements a statistical analysis method such as Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) for yield function estimation and explicitly optimizes it. In this paper, we introduce a new statistical design centering technique for microwave system design. The technique combines a modified surrogate‐based derivative‐free trust region (TR) optimization algorithm and the generalized space mapping (GSM) technique. The modified TR algorithm is a derivative‐free optimization algorithm that employs quadratic surrogate models to replace the computationally expensive yield function over hyperelliptic trust regions in the optimization process. TR algorithms exhibit global convergence features irrespective the starting point setting. The new design centering approach utilizes the GSM technique to approximate the feasible region in the design parameter space with a sequence of iteratively updated space mapping (SM) surrogates. At each SM iteration, the modified TR algorithm optimizes the yield function for the current SM region approximation to get a better center. Two microwave circuit examples are used to show the effectiveness of the new design centering technique to obtain an optimal design in few SM iterations. In the design process, we employ Sonnet em for the bandstop microstrip filter design and CST Studio Suit for the ultra‐wideband (UWB) multiple‐input‐multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ru-promoted Ni–Co catalysts supported on MgO–Al 2 O 3 are tested for dry reforming activity in a fixed-bed reactor at atmospheric pressure. The effect of temperature and contact time is investigated, and the catalysts maintain high stability for up to 47 h on stream. The support surface area significantly affects dispersion, and whisker carbon is observed in spent samples with pore sizes higher than 15 nm. H 2 -TPR studies reveal the presence of spinels that are not completely reducible, yet the catalysts give remarkable activity. Four synthesis methods are tested for the support, with the sol-gel method in neutral conditions providing the best performance, with a small compromise on activity but a significant improvement in catalyst stability and no whisker carbon formation. Further work will optimize the Ni/Co ratio in the active phase to decrease the carbon buildup on the catalysts. • Trimetallic Ni–Co–Ru/MgO–Al 2 O 3 catalysts are tested for dry reforming of methane. • Support synthesis method affects dispersion, stability and coking tendency. • Pore diameters higher than 15 nm correlate with whisker carbon formation. • Support synthesis by sol-gel method at neutral pH gives best catalyst. • The Ni/Co ratio can be further optimized to minimize coking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: Laparoscopic repair of different female genitourinary fistulae has been recently reported, including both conventional and laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS). We present our 10-year single-center experience of the laparoscopic repair of different types of female genitourinary fistulae. Methods: A retrospective analysis of our records over the last 10 years was performed. Type of fistula, etiology, laparoscopic approach, operative data, postoperative outcome, and follow-up were recorded. Results: Overall, 46 patients with laparoscopic repair of genitourinary fistulae were reported: 25 had vesicovaginal fistulae (VVF), 14 had vesicouterine fistulae (VUF), and 7 had ureterovaginal fistulae (UVF). Thirty-three patients had conventional laparoscopic repair, whereas 7 VVF and 6 VUF had LESS repair. In all patients with VVF and VUF, extravesical repair was carried out by excising the fistulous tract and closing both the bladder and the vagina or the uterus with interposing tissue in-between. In patients with UVF, extravesical ureteric re-implantation was performed. Mean operative time was 176 ± 25 min. Mean blood loss was 105 ± 25 cc. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. None was converted to open surgery. Mean postoperative hospital stay was 3.2 ± 1.2 days. After a mean follow-up of 6.3 ± 3.1 years, all patients had undergone successful repair, except for one patient with complex VVF. Conclusions: Laparoscopic repair of VVF, VUF, and UVF is a feasible procedure with a high success rate and low morbidity. LESS repair of VVF and VUF has a comparable success rate to conventional laparoscopy, but with a shorter hospital stay and fewer analgesic requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work studies the application of supercritical-phase exfoliation method to produce 100% yield of high-quality graphene. This simple and cost-effective method utilizes supercritical carbon dioxide and ultrasonication to produce pure and defect-free mono-, few- and multi-layer graphene sheets. The process parameters such as pressure, sonication time, sonication amplitude and the amount of starting graphite were examined. The production of defect-free single-, few- and multi-layer graphene sheets was confirmed using atomic force microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirms that our method does not cause any oxidation to the synthesized graphene. The conductivity of the best yield graphene sample has been tested by four-point probe method and high electrical conductivity of 8.5 × 104 S/m was recorded. The synthesized graphene can be used in many applications such as supercapacitors, batteries, composites and conductive inks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fusion excitation function for the systems 3 2 , 3 6 S+ 9 0 , 9 4 , 9 6 Zr is investigated using a microscopic internuclear potential derived from Skyrme energy density functional. The inputs in this approach are the proton and neutron density distributions of the interacting nuclei, which are derived from Skyrme–Hartree–Fock calculations. The SkM ∗ interaction is used in the calculation of the nuclear densities as well as the internuclear potential. The coupling to low lying inelastic excited states of target and projectile is considered. The role of the neutron transfer is discussed, where it is considered through the CCFULL model calculation. A good agreement with the experimental data is obtained without adjustable parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research focuses on the soundscapes of two localities representative of the oasis cities of southeast Algeria, Sidi Okba and El Kantara, in order to define the nature of the soundscapes and the impact that road traffic can have on them. In this paper, the method of sound walks has been used in order to record the sound experience of city dwellers in pre-selected routes. The processing of these sound recordings with the S_TOOLS-STx software shows the diversity and the denaturation of the soundscapes in these two localities. The current nature of sounds and the exposure levels, especially in new urban centers, and the extinction of these oases could have a negative impact on the general comfort and health of the inhabitants and on the sensitive natural biodiversity of these fragile human settlements, increasing the risk of the syndrome of sick cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the impact of incorporating a hybrid combination of structural polypropylene fibers on the flexural behavior of concrete beams reinforced with steel, GFRP, and innovative hybrid bars. A new ductile hybrid bar with equivalent bilinear stress-strain characteristics has been developed to address steel corrosion and FRP ductility issues. Fourteen half-scale RC beams were fabricated and tested under four-point loading configuration to study the flexural response. The tensile reinforcement types (steel, GFRP, and hybrid), hybrid reinforcement ratios (0.85 %, 1.26 %, and 1.70 %), reinforcement hybridization schemes (hybrid-hybrid, hybrid-GFRP, and GFRP-steel), and hybrid fiber ratio (0.0 %, 1.0 %, and 2.0 %) are the major parameters studied. The test results were recorded and analyzed in terms of mid-span deflection, cracking load, flexural capacity, and failure mechanism. The results demonstrated that the addition of hybrid fibers and using hybrid bars significantly improved the peak strength, ductility index, and bending stiffness. Moreover, the hybrid-reinforced concrete beams exhibit large inelastic deformations similar to steel-reinforced concrete beams. The inclusion of hybrid fibers improves the post-peak response of the tested beam due to fiber bridging capabilities. For design purposes, a simplified formula proposed by ACI 544 for predicting the nominal flexural capacity of hybrid fiber concrete beams reinforced with hybrid bars was presented, compared with experimental results and validated with 44 specimens from other studies. The predicted and test results were in good agreement with a standard deviation of 0.12. Additionally, 3D nonlinear finite element analysis was developed to validate the test results, demonstrating reasonable accuracy in predicting the flexural behavior of the beams. • This paper investigates the effectiveness of adding a hybrid combination of structural polypropylene fibers on the flexural behavior of (steel, GFRP, and hybrid) reinforced concrete beams. • A new ductile hybrid bar with equivalent bilinear stress-strain characteristics has been developed to overcome traditional steel corrosion and FRP ductility problems. An experimental program of 14 half-scale RC beams was fabricated and tested under a four-point loading configuration. • The variables were: tensile reinforcement types, the addition of hybrid fibers, the hybrid fiber ratio, beam cross section, and the hybrid reinforcement ratio. • The test results were recorded and discussed in terms of mid-span deflection, cracking load, flexural capacity, and mode of failure. • To facilitate the design process, a simplified formula proposed by ACI 544 for predicting the nominal flexural capacity of hybrid fiber concrete beams with hybrid bars was presented. • A finite element analysis using ABAQUS/CAE6.14 was performed to verify the experimental outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]