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The synthesis of transparent thermoelectric materials, particularly at low processing temperature possesses a good promise for future power generation by renovating waste heat into electrical energy. The fabrication of invisible thermoelectric module is hindered by limited choices of appropriate p-type transparent thermoelectric materials so far. The present study deals with the growth and characterization of optically transparent p-type copper iodide (γ-CuI) thin films. Thermal annealing (maximum up to 200 °C) was performed to tune the electrical and optoelectronic properties for nurturing the thermoelectric performance. Annealing induced microstructural modifications instigated the preferential crystal growth by regulating the surface morphology. Low thermal conductivity is credited to strong phonon scattering leading to improved thermoelectric performance. Consequently, we attain a record Seebeck coefficient of ∼270 μV/K and power factor of ∼20 μW/(m·K2) that is almost two-order of magnitude higher as compared to conventional p-type transparent TE materials, indicating the potential of transparent γ-CuI thin films regarding its practical applicability in transparent thermoelectric devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of diarrhea risk associated with wastewater exposure in agriculture is almost unknown. This study aimed to examine diarrheal infection and risk factors among farmers using wastewater for irrigation in Addis Ababa. A cross-sectional study was employed among 380 farmers (190 exposed and 190 unexposed farmers). Among these, a cohort of 200 adults (100 wastewater-exposed, 100 unexposed farmers) aged 25–69 years were selected and followed up biweekly for two successive vegetables growing seasons to examine the incidence of diarrhea. The incidence rate of reported diarrhea was 12 episodes per 1,000 person-weeks at risk and a maximum of 17 episodes per 1,000 person-weeks at risk. Strongly associated risk factors include washing body and clothes with wastewater [AOR: 4.2, 95%CI (1, 11.2)], using working clothes at home [AOR: 4.7, 95%CI (0.25, 87)], and wearing protective cloth [AOR: 5.6, 95 CI (0.3, 70)]. Moreover, hand washing after work, washing feet and boots, and on-site hand washing were significant determinants of farmers’ diarrhea. Exposure to wastewater significantly contributes to the risk of diarrhea among adults. Significant determinants of diarrhea among farmers include washing the body and clothes with irrigation water, contamination with soil and irrigation water, and on-site hand washing. Increased risk factors include hand contamination, washing vegetables with irrigation water, eating raw vegetables, and using work clothes at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Coronary artery calcifications (CACs) indicate the presence of coronary artery disease. CAC can be found on thoracic computed tomography (CT) conducted for non-cardiac reasons. This systematic review and meta-analysis of non-gated thoracic CT aims to assess the clinical impact and prevalence of CAC. Methods: Online databases were searched for articles assessing prevalence, demographic characteristics, accuracy and prognosis of incidental CAC on non-gated thoracic CT. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model. Results: A total of 108 studies (113,406 patients) were included (38% female). Prevalence of CAC ranged from 2.7 to 100% (pooled prevalence 52%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 46–58%). Patients with CAC were older (pooled standardised mean difference 0.88, 95% CI 0.65–1.11, p < 0.001), and more likely to be male (pooled odds ratio [OR] 1.95, 95% CI 1.55–2.45, p < 0.001), with diabetes (pooled OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.95–3.54, p < 0.001), hypercholesterolaemia (pooled OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.33–3.93, p < 0.01) and hypertension (pooled OR 3.89, 95% CI 2.26–6.70, p < 0.001), but not higher body mass index or smoking. Non-gated CT assessment of CAC had excellent agreement with electrocardiogram-gated CT (pooled correlation coefficient 0.96, 95% CI 0.92–0.98, p < 0.001). In 51,582 patients, followed-up for 51.6 ± 27.4 months, patients with CAC had increased all cause mortality (pooled relative risk [RR] 2.13, 95% CI 1.57–2.90, p = 0.004) and major adverse cardiovascular events (pooled RR 2.91, 95% CI 2.26–3.93, p < 0.001). When CAC was present on CT, it was reported in between 18.6% and 93% of reports. Conclusion: CAC is a common, but underreported, finding on non-gated CT with important prognostic implications. Clinical relevance statement: Coronary artery calcium is an important prognostic indicator of cardiovascular disease. It can be assessed on non-gated thoracic CT and is a commonly underreported finding. This represents a significant population where there is a potential missed opportunity for lifestyle modification recommendations and preventative therapies. This study aims to highlight the importance of reporting incidental coronary artery calcium on non-gated thoracic CT. Key Points: • Coronary artery calcification is a common finding on non-gated thoracic CT and can be reliably identified compared to gated-CT. • Coronary artery calcification on thoracic CT is associated with an increased risk of all cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascsular events. • Coronary artery calcification is frequently not reported on non-gated thoracic CT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous silicon structures are effective in trapping light due to the abundance of pores on their surface, finding widespread use in optical applications like photoelectric conversion, photon collection, and detection. We have successfully created micro-porous silicon with exceptionally high antireflection performance through electrochemical etching using different concentrations of silver catalysts. Results show that this germanium coated porous silicon structure has a smaller range of pore sizes, leading to a reduced reflectivity of 2.6 % under light radiation with wavelengths. To understand the antireflective mechanism further, we explored the surface reflectivity of porous silicon structures by coating the germanium metal on the porous structure. Importantly, germanium coated porous silicon structures with high surface quality and well-preserved pore integrity are identified as beneficial for achieving lower reflectivity in the incident light wavelength range of 300–1200 nm. These findings are significant for the design of porous silicon antireflective materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclization of substituted thiosemicarbazones with 3‐bromo‐1,1,1‐trifluoroacetone affords new 2‐(arylidenehydrazinyl)‐4‐trifluoromethylthiazoles (3 a–m, 13 examples, 71–89 %). These compounds were synthesized in two steps and characterized using 1H‐, 13C‐NMR, FTIR spectroscopy, and HRMS. All of these compounds show potent activity against both Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Klebsiella pneumonia (K. pneumonia) bacterial strains. The compounds 2‐(2‐(1‐(4‐fluorophenyl)ethylidene)hydrazinyl)‐4(trifluoromethyl)thiazole (3 b), 2‐(2‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐methylbenzylidene)hydrazinyl)‐4‐(trifluoromethyl)thiazole (3 c), and 2‐(2‐(3‐fluorobenzylidene)hydrazinyl)‐4‐(trifluoromethyl)thiazole (3 k) show optimal minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 16 μg/mL against E. coli and (32, 32, and 8 μg/ml) against K. pneumonia, respectively. Using a qRT‐PCR technique the gene expression of two different genes (FLU and mexB) was determined. Most of these compounds (3 a, d–j, l, m) exhibited downregulation of these genes for both types of bacteria, whereas the gene expressions were unaffected after treating 3 b, 3 c and 3 k. This means that although these compounds were able to inhibit bacterial growth, they did not target the FLU and mexB genes in both types of bacteria. These findings suggest further investigations for lead optimization could provide viable antibiotics due to their structural similarity with some commercially available antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to explore a novel approach for fabricating plasmonic nanostructures to enhance the optical properties and performance of various optoelectronic devices. The research begins by employing a piezo-inkjet printing technique to deposit drops containing Ag nanoparticles (NPs) onto a glass substrate at a predefined equidistance, with the goal of obtaining arrays of Ag microdots (Ag-µdots) on the glass substrate. This process is followed by a thermal annealing treatment. The printing parameters are first optimized to achieve uniform deposition of different sizes of Ag-µdots arrays by controlling the number of Ag ink drops. Subsequently, the printed arrays undergo thermal annealing at various temperatures in air for 60 min, enabling precise and uniform control over nanoparticle formation. The printed Ag nanoparticles are characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy to analyze their morphological features, ensuring their suitability for plasmonic applications. UV–Vis spectrophotometry is employed to investigate the enhanced surface-plasmonic-resonance properties of the printed AgNPs. Measurements confirm that the equidistant arrays of AgNPs obtained from annealing Ag microdots exhibit enhanced light-matter interaction, leading to a surface plasmon resonance response dependent on the Ag NPs' specific surface area. These enhanced surface plasmonic resonances open avenues for developing cutting-edge optoelectronic devices that leverage the benefits of plasmonic nanostructures, thereby enabling new opportunities for future technological developments across various fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the Laplace transformation method in connection with the variational iteration method will be used to solve approximately fuzzy random ordinary differential equations. After that, the sequence of approximated closed form iterated solutions is derived based on the general Lagrange multiplier evaluated using the well-known convolution theorem of the Laplace transformation method. In addition, two examples are given and solved to illustrate the reliability, efficiency and applicability of the proposed method, they are simulated using computer programs with two different generations of stochastic processes, namely the Wiener process or Brownian motion, which are 1000 and 10000, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A binary stream cipher cryptosystem can be used to encrypt/decrypt many types of digital files, especially those can be considered huge data files like images. To guarantee that the encryption or decryption processes need a reasonable time to encrypt/decrypt the images, so we have to make the stream cipher key generator that acts quickly without effect in the complexity or randomness of the output key binary sequences. In this paper, we increase the size of the output sequence from binary to digital sequence in the field GF(2 8 ) to obtain byte sequence, then we test this new sequence not only as binary but also 2 8 -sequence. So we have to test the new output sequence in the new mathematical field. This is done by changing the base of the randomness tests and extending Golomb’s postulates from binary to 256. Some theorems and lemmas are proved to find the new testing laws that are suitable to the new sequences field. The results of using the extended randomness tests are compared to the results of binary randomness tests to guarantee that the decision of pass or fail is identical, the results also prove the precision of identicalness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergency of tyrosine kinase inhibitors has remarkably enhanced the clinical outcomes of cancer therapy, especially the use of EGFR inhibitors for non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, acquired resistance is inevitable after 8–12 months treatment. New agents or treatments are urgently required to resolve this problem. In this study, we identified that compound ZYZ384 can selectively inhibit the growth of gefitinib‐resistant (G‐R) lung cancer cells, without affecting that of normal lung epithelial cells. ZYZ384 induced G2 arrest in G‐R NSCLC cells, decreasing the expression of Cyclin B1 and increasing the expression of P21. Meanwhile, ZYZ384 also induced apoptosis in NSCLC cells and correspondingly increased the expression of cleaved Caspase 3, 8, and 9 proteins. The expression of p‐JNK, p‐P38, and p‐ERK were also increased in H1975 NSCLC cells treated with ZYZ384. Finally, we observed that the JNK inhibitor effectively reversed the pro‐apoptotic effect of ZYZ384. In conclusion, ZYZ384 is a potential therapeutic agent to inhibit the growth of NSCLCs with EGFR mutations through activating JNK, which will help the development of related anticancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater irrigation may reintroduce fecal pathogens to households and cause drinking water contamination. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of wastewater irrigation on the quality of drinking water among wastewater-irrigating urban farming households. Drinking water samples from 52 households of farming communities in 19 sampling sites were collected twice at PoS and PoC. The microbial quality of the water was assessed using E. coli counted by membrane filtration. Samples collected from exposed households at PoC were 100% positive for E. coli with mean E. coli at PoC increased 10× from the PoS and 3× higher compared to PoC in the unexposed households. The absence of hand washing water (ATE = 8.14), water storing (ATE = 7.75) and intermittent water supply (ATE = 6.25) were significant factors for the increased E. coli at PoC. Breaking the path of the pathogens from the farm to the house and from PoS to PoC needsintervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many cases of gravitational bullets are reported in developed and non-developed countries. However, few papers highlighted these cases in the literature. In our study, we present two cases of gravitational bullets that have an unusual coincidence in the injury characteristics through their ages, and gender, the site of the inlet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine how social ties (i.e. business ties and political ties) affect the adoption of green innovation in the context of emerging economies, separately and comparatively. In addition, this study also seeks to examine how absorptive capacity shapes the relationships between social ties and the adoption of green innovation. Design/methodology/approach: A theoretical model with hypothesized relationships is proposed and tested using regression in SPSS. This study's sample consists of a dataset covering 272 Chinese firms (based on a total of 544 respondents) operating in various industries with two key informants in each firm. Findings: The authors find that business ties and political ties both facilitate the adoption of green innovation, whereas business ties influence the adoption more strongly than political ties do. This study's findings also show that absorptive capacity strengthens the positive relationships between the two types of social ties and the adoption of green innovation. Originality/value: Although scholarship has amply documented the role that social ties play in influencing corporate performance, few studies have considered how and under what conditions these ties can impact the adoption of green innovation. Overall, the authors add value to the environmental management and social capital literature by providing novel insights into the differential roles that business ties and political ties play in the adoption of green innovation under the influence of absorptive capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the surgical outcome of extravesical and transvesical repair of Vesicovaginal fistula. Study Design: Prospective comparative study. Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Urology, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Jul 2019 and Jul 2020. Methodology: Forty-two patients with vesicovaginal fistula were included in the study. The causes of the development of vesicovaginal fistula were evaluated. Half of the patients underwent extravesical and remaining transvesical repair. The results were compared regarding operative time, mean blood loss, complications and recurrence. Results: The vesicovaginal fistula was secondary to prolonged obstructed labour 27(66%), with an iatrogenic cause 15(34%). Mean operative time for extravesical repair was 83.00±20.00 minutes and for transvesical repair was 60.00±20.00 minutes. 71% patients undergoing extravesical repair experienced bladder spasms compared to 47% in the transvesical Group. Three cases suffered prolonged illeus in case of extravesical repair. The mean hospital stay for extravesical repair was 6.00±1.08 days, relatively more than transvesical, which was statistically significant (p-value <0.001) Conclusion: Transabdominal approach for managing vesicovaginal fistula is the most preferred successful technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Areas with abundant sunlight, such as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), are optimal for photovoltaic (PV) power generation. However, the average power loss of photovoltaic modules caused by dust accumulation is extreme and may reach 1%/day, necessitating frequent cleaning which adds to the cost of operations and maintenance. One of the solutions to the problem of PV soiling is to develop anti-soil coatings, where hydrophilic or hydrophobic coatings with spectral characteristics suitable for PV applications are added to the outer layer of PV glass. However, the effectiveness of such coatings depends extensively on climatic conditions and geographical locations. Since coatings add to the cost of solar panels, it is imperative that they are first tested for suitability at the intended location and/or in similar weather conditions prior to their large-scale deployment. This critical review focuses on various anti-dust technologies employed to mitigate the PV soiling issue. The in-depth comparison of the various developed techniques and materials aims at providing a relevant input in adapting the right technology based on particles' accumulation mechanism, weather conditions, and geographical location. Though the mechanical cleaning process is the most used solution to date, development of thin film anti-dust coating could be a better alternative—when it is relevant—due to its abrasion-free capability, large deployment, economic viability, and durability. This review aims at serving as a reference in this topic, thereby paving the way to adapting efficient anti-dust coatings, especially in the MENA region and/or desert environment at large, where it is the most relevant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bilinear interpolation and use of perceptual color spaces (HSL, HSV, LAB, and LUV) fusion techniques are presented to improve spatial and spectral characteristics of the multispectral image that has a low resolution to match the high spatial resolution of a panchromatic image for different satellites image data (Orbview-3 and Landsat-7) for the same region. The Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) fidelity criterion for achromatic information has been calculated, as well as the mean colorshifting parameters that computed the ratio of chromatic information loss of the RGB compound inside each pixel to evaluate the quality of the fused images. The results showed the superiority of HSL color space to fuse images over the rest of the spaces, as it recorded the highest SNR and the lowest mean color-shifting. The quality of the fused images using Lab color space was not affected by the type of intermediate algorithm used for XYZ space, unlike LUV color space. The XYZ algorithm type affected the fused image results, which recorded the worst consequences. It is noted that the computational time taken increased exponentially with the difference in spatial resolution between the fused images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we synthesised and characterised a series of thiazole derivatives (compounds 3a–j) and assessed their potential for anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant activities. The anti-diabetic potential of the compounds was assessed by measuring their inhibition of key enzymes involved in blood glucose regulation. Compound 3i demonstrated the highest α-Amylase inhibition activity (IC 50 value: 18.68 µg/mL), while compounds 3i and 3c exhibited significant α-Glucosidase inhibition (IC 50 values: 20.25 and 22.63 µg/mL respectively), even surpassing the control drug, Acarbose (IC 50 value: 33.77 µg/mL). Interestingly, most of the compounds displayed favourable dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV) inhibition and DPPH scavenging ability, with compound 3i showing the highest DPP IV inhibition ability (IC 50 value: 23.81 µg/mL) and most robust anti-oxidant potential (IC 50 value: 2.50 µg/mL). Additionally, anti-bacterial studies against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli revealed compounds 3i and 3c as effective inhibitors of bacterial growth. The MICs (4, 16, 16, and 32 µg/mL) and MBCs (4, 32, 32, and 16 µg/mL) respectively of the compounds supported their potential application in controlling and preventing bacterial growth. These results provide valuable insights into the multifunctional properties of the new thiazole derivatives and their potential in managing diabetes, combating bacterial infections, and serving as anti-oxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we synthesised and characterised a series of thiazole derivatives (compounds 3a–j) and assessed their potential for anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant activities. The anti-diabetic potential of the compounds was assessed by measuring their inhibition of key enzymes involved in blood glucose regulation. Compound 3i demonstrated the highest α-Amylase inhibition activity (IC 50 value: 18.68 µg/mL), while compounds 3i and 3c exhibited significant α-Glucosidase inhibition (IC 50 values: 20.25 and 22.63 µg/mL respectively), even surpassing the control drug, Acarbose (IC 50 value: 33.77 µg/mL). Interestingly, most of the compounds displayed favourable dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV) inhibition and DPPH scavenging ability, with compound 3i showing the highest DPP IV inhibition ability (IC 50 value: 23.81 µg/mL) and most robust anti-oxidant potential (IC 50 value: 2.50 µg/mL). Additionally, anti-bacterial studies against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli revealed compounds 3i and 3c as effective inhibitors of bacterial growth. The MICs (4, 16, 16, and 32 µg/mL) and MBCs (4, 32, 32, and 16 µg/mL) respectively of the compounds supported their potential application in controlling and preventing bacterial growth. These results provide valuable insights into the multifunctional properties of the new thiazole derivatives and their potential in managing diabetes, combating bacterial infections, and serving as anti-oxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graph contrastive learning (GCL) aims to contrast positive–negative counterparts, whereas graph data augmentation (GDA) in GCL is employed to generate positive–negative samples. Existing GDA techniques, such as 1-dimensional (1D) feature masking, suffer from having a high probability of augmenting partially homogeneous views. Homogeneous views encode identical embeddings, induce substandard positive–negative samples, and enforce the performance responsibility on structural augmentation. Thus, previous work requires plenty of negative samples, converges slower, consumes more memory for training, and offers trivial performance improvements on downstream tasks. To overcome these issues, firstly , we introduce a novel 2-dimensional (2D) feature masking technique in GCL to mask the feature matrix in 2-dimensions. Secondly , we introduce heterogeneous augmentation, a combination of 1D-2D feature masking and edge dropping. Thirdly , we present a negative samples-based GCL framework: Heterogeneous D ata A ugmentation in Graph Contrastive Learning for E ffective N egative S amples (DAENS). The effectiveness of the DAENS's induced positive–negative samples can be quantified as using only inter-view negative samples improves node classification performance up to 5.84% on 8 benchmark datasets. DAENS converges faster, takes less time per epoch, and is more memory efficient than existing state-of-the-art methods. Lastly , we empirically examine the feature and structural augmentation effect on sparse and dense graphs with DAENS. The implementation of DAENS is available at https://github.com/mhadnanali/DAENS. • Earlier graph data augmentation methods are more likely to augment homogeneous views. • We introduce a framework (DAENS) based on 2D masking to create heterogeneous views. • DAENS improves the node classification up to 5.84% accuracy of 8 benchmark datasets. • DAENS converges faster, takes less time per epoch, and is memory efficient. • Empirically examine the feature and structural augmentation on benchmark datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancement of the electromagnetic properties of metallic nanostructures constitute an extensive research field related to plasmonics. The latter term is derived from plasmons, which are quanta corresponding to longitudinal waves that are propagating in matter by the collective motion of electrons. Plasmonics are increasingly finding wide application in sensing, microscopy, optical communications, biophotonics, and light trapping enhancement for solar energy conversion. Although the plasmonics field has relatively a short history of development, it has led to substantial advancement in enhancing the absorption of the solar spectrum and charge carrier separation efficiency. Recently, huge developments have been made in understanding the basic parameters and mechanisms governing the application of plasmonics, including the effects of nanoparticles' size, arrangement, and geometry and how all these factors impact the dielectric field in the surrounding medium of the plasmons. This review article emphasizes recent developments, fundamentals, and fabrication techniques for plasmonic nanostructures while investigating their thermal effects and detailing light-trapping enhancement mechanisms. The mismatch effect of the front and back light grating for optimum light trapping is also discussed. Different arrangements of plasmonic nanostructures in photovoltaics for efficiency enhancement, plasmonics' limitations, and modeling performance are also deeply explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout human history, the control of light, electricity and heat has evolved to become the cornerstone of various innovations and developments in electrical and electromagnetic technologies. Wireless communications, laser and computer technologies have all been achieved by altering the way light and other energy forms act naturally and how to manage them in a controlled manner. At the nanoscale, to control light and heat, matured nanostructure fabrication techniques have been developed in the last two decades, and a wide range of groundbreaking processes have been achieved. Photonic crystals, nanolithography, plasmonics phenomena and nanoparticle manipulation are the main areas where these techniques have been applied successfully and led to an emergent material sciences branch known as metamaterials. Metamaterials and functional material development strategies are focused on the structures of the matter itself, which has led to unconventional and unique electromagnetic properties through the manipulation of light—and in a more general picture the electromagnetic waves—in widespread manner. Metamaterial's nanostructures have precise shape, geometry, size, direction and arrangement. Such configurations are impacting the electromagnetic light waves to generate novel properties that are difficult or even impossible to obtain with natural materials. This review discusses these metamaterials and metasurfaces from the perspectives of materials, mechanisms and advanced metadevices in depth, with the aim to serve as a solid reference for future works in this exciting and rapidly emerging topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physicochemical and rheological characteristics of apricot kernel milk cream (AMC) were tested and compared with cow's milk cream (CMC) during 60 days of storage. The dry matter content was 64.03% and 61.35% in CMC and AMC samples, respectively. Color values (L* and a*) for the samples were unchanged during storage. For antioxidant activity, the sample of AMC has a stronger ABTS* radical scavenging capacity than the CMC; that is, the ABTS* values were 76.74 and 114.39 mg/L for CMC and AMC, respectively (p <.05). Loss modulus (G″) values were lower in samples than storage modulus (G′) indicating that all cream samples had a hard, viscoelastic‐like behavior. This study can provide useful information for producers to distinguish apricot kernel creams by their basic compositional properties and their rheological properties. Based on the data found in this study, it is predicted that apricot kernel cream can be produced as a new product for vegetarian people nutrients. Novelty impact statement: Apricot seed cream, which is plant‐based product, gave similar rheological properties like regular milk cream. Results provide a useful guide for producers to distinguish apricot seed creams based on their overall rheological properties. It is seen that the cream with apricot seeds can be produced as a new product especially for vegan nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: It is not certain from current evidence which patient groups with non-visible haematuria (NVH) require urgent investigation and which investigations are sufficient. We report referral outcomes data from Scotland to identify patient groups who will benefit from urgent assessment to rule out urological cancer (UC) and whether full set of investigations are necessary in all referred patients. Materials and methods: Data were collected from electronic patient records for patients referred with NVH to secondary care urology services between July 2017 and May 2020. The correlations between risk factors and final diagnosis were assessed using categorical variables in a multivariate logistic regression analysis and using chi-squared models. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS data editor version 25. Results: Our study cohort comprised 525 patients (43.4% males; median age 66 years), in which UC was diagnosed in 25 patients (4.8%). Age > 60 years had sensitivity and NPV for UC of 92% and 99%, respectively. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed male sex, age ≥ 60 years and smoking were significant predictors of UC in patients with NVH (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in UC in patients with history of LUTS, anticoagulation and previous UC. Conclusion: The risk of urologic cancer in NVH patients is significant and male gender, age ≥ 60 years and smoking are significant predictors of UC. Patients with risk factors of UC require complete assessment of both the upper and lower urinary tract; however, in the absence of risk factors, patients do not require urgent or complete assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This study used four different apricot (Prunus armeniaca) kernels cultivated in Malatya during two consecutive years. The varieties were Hacihaliloglu, Hasanbey, Kabaasi, and Zerdali. The physicochemical properties of the kernels were determined, and the bioactive content of the kernels was evaluated using kernel hydrolysates prepared using trypsin. RESULTS: With regard to the physicochemical properties of the kernels, the dry matter ratio and protein content were the highest in the Hacihaliloglu variety; the ash ratio was the highest in the Kabaasi variety, and the free oil ratio was the highest in the Hasanbey variety. The bioactive compound content changed according to kernel variety. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors activity was found to be the highest in the Hacihaliloglu and Hasanbey varieties, which had the lowest amygdalin content, and Zerdali had the highest amygdalin content. The antioxidant and antimicrobial effects of the kernels varied, with Hasanbey and Kabaasi generally having the highest content in both analyses. Moreover, a concentration of 20 mg mL−1 of the hydrolysate was determined to have a destructive effect for the microorganisms used in this study. The storage protein of the kernels, except Hacihaliloglu, was found to be Prunin 1, with the longest matching protein chain in the kernels being R.QQQGGQLMANGLEETFCSLRLK.E. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the peptide sequences identified in the kernels could have antihypertensive, antioxidative, and Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP‐IV) inhibitory effects. Consequently, apricot kernels show potential for use in the production of functional food products. Of the kernels evaluated in this study, Hacihaliloglu and Hasanbey were deemed the most suitable varieties due to their higher bioactive content and lower amygdalin content. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The highly abundant and stable antiviral small RNA derived from honeysuckle, known as miR2911, has been shown to play a key role in inhibiting influenza virus infection and SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, whether miR2911 inhibits the replication of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) remains unknown. Hence, this study investigated the mechanisms underlying the action of miR2911 during PRRSV infection. Six targets of miR2911 within the PRRSV orf1 (Nsp2: 2459 to 2477, 1871 to 1892, 954 to 977, and 1271 to 1292; Nsp1: 274 to 296 and 822 to 841) were successfully identified by using the miRanda v1.0b software. The miR2911 target sequence was analyzed by target sequence comparison, and only individual base mutations existed in different prevalent strains, and the miR2911 target region was highly conserved among different strains. Subsequently, through the dual luciferase reporter gene assay and miR2911 overexpression assay, it was demonstrated that miR2911 significantly inhibits the replication of PRRSV by targeting regions of PRRSV Nsp1 and Nsp2. These findings offer new insights for the development of novel anti-PRRSV drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: It remains uncertain which embolization material is best for portal vein embolization (PVE). We investigated the various materials for effectiveness in inducing future liver remnant (FLR) hypertrophy, technical and growth success rates, and complication and resection rates. Methods: A systematic review from 1998 to 2019 on embolization materials for PVE was performed on Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane. FLR growth between the two most commonly used materials was compared in a random effects meta-analysis. In a separate analysis using local data (n = 52), n-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) was compared with microparticles regarding costs, radiation dose, and procedure time. Results: In total, 2896 patients, 61.0 ± 4.0 years of age and 65% male, from 51 papers were included in the analysis. In 61% of the patients, either NBCA or microparticles were used for embolization. The remaining were treated with ethanol, gelfoam, or sclerosing agents. The FLR growth with NBCA was 49.1% ± 29.7 compared to 42.2% ± 40 with microparticles (p = 0.037). The growth success rate with NBCA vs microparticles was 95.3% vs 90.7% respectively (p < 0.001). There were no differences in major complications between NBCA and microparticles. In the local analysis, NBCA (n = 41) entailed shorter procedure time and reduced fluoroscopy time (p < 0.001), lower radiation exposure (p < 0.01), and lower material costs (p < 0.0001) than microparticles (n = 11). Conclusion: PVE with NBCA seems to be the best choice when combining growth of the FLR, procedure time, radiation exposure, and costs. Key Points: • The meta-analysis shows that n-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) is superior to microparticles regarding hypertrophy of the future liver remnant, 49.1% ± 29.7 vs 42.2% ± 40.0 (p = 0.037). • There is no significant difference in major complication rates for portal vein embolization using NBCA, 4% (24/681), compared with microparticles, 5% (25/494) (p > 0.05). • Local data shows a shorter procedure time, 215 vs 348 mins from arrival to departure at the interventional radiology unit, and fluoroscopy time, 43 vs 96 mins (p < 0.001), lower radiation dosage, 573 vs 1287 Gycm2(p < 0.01), and costs, €816 vs €4233 (p < 0.0001) for NBCA compared to microparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Probiotic Beyaz peynir (white-brined cheese) was manufactured using two different adjunct probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus acidophilus DSMZ 20079 and Bifidobacterium bifidum DSMZ 20456) and the influence of these bacteria and different packaging systems (vacuum package and under brine) on the changes in the volatilome and proteolysis throughout the ripening was investigated. Packaging type, addition of the adjunct culture, and ripening time changed the volatilome profile and proteolysis of the cheeses both qualitatively and quantitatively. A total of 54 volatile compounds and their levels greatly differed among the cheeses depending on the factors studied. Principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and heatmap clustering analysis were performed to distinguish the different components in the cheeses in relation to their ripening time, adjunct culture, and packaging types. PCA and heatmap clustering analysis results were in accordance with each other. The models provided a good tool for discriminating the volatile compounds of Beyaz peynir samples in terms of the treatments applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peptides responsible for bitter taste may form, as a result of the hydrolysis of protein-rich foods. The perception of bitterness is formed by the stimulation of bitter taste receptors and the interpretation of the signal sent to the brain through the nervous system. Dairy products are often characterized by bitter peptides. In studies conducted, it has been stated that the bitter peptides identified in cheese are generally originated from αs1- and β-casein. The bitter taste intensity of protein hydrolysates varies depending on the hydrophobicity of the peptide, the number of hydrophobic amino acids and its the chain length. While accelerating ripening in cheeses, methods including aminopeptidase, carboxypeptidase and adjunct cultures with starter culture have been used recently to prevent the formation of bitter taste defects. In this review; the formation and perception mechanism of bitter peptides has been explained and current studies on bitter removal methods have been presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculosis is a national and world-wide spreading disease that many patients suffer from in addition to their battle with the disease itself, a new health challenging aspect is added which is the adverse effects of the anti-tuberculous drugs, as they have a hepatotoxic effect therefore this study has targeted the effect of anti-tuberculous drugs on liver enzymes. The study was conducted in three cities in Iraq (Baghdad, Samawah and diyala) 30 patients in total. All patients were registered in the national centers of infectious diseases according to their city. patients were monitored for four months for liver enzymes level (ALT, AST and ALP) , which were markedly elevated in the first two months then a promising recovery to normal levels in the later four months. Combined therapy of pyrazinamide, rifampicin, ethambutol and isoniazid has been used to all patients equally. Patient and Methods : In descriptive study, a total of 30 cases aged from 7-65 years where collected from the national centers of tuberculosis centers in Iraq, from july 2018 to January 2019.pateints were treated for two months with combined drug formula (rifampicin, ethambutol, isoniazid and pyrazinamide) followed by isoniazid and rifampicin for the second two months. Blood samples were collected at 7 occasions, before treatment followed by 1 months, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months and 6 months. Investigated for ALT, AST and ALP. Data were analyzed using SPSS ver. 23, results expressed as means and ± standard deviation, paired sample t -test study was used. Inclusion and Exclusion: Patients included in our study were with pulmonary tuberculosis or extra pulmonary tuberculosis, planned and completed a full course of antituberculous. Any patient didn't complete the course and followed the treatment protocol was excluded. Statistical analysis: Data is presented as means ± standard deviation (S.D) and were compared using paired sample t-test for continuous variables and Wilcoxon test. SPSS version 23.0 was used for analyzing the data, and p-values ≤ 0.05 were considered significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiraterone acetate received licencing for use in only "high-risk" metastatic hormone-naïve prostate cancer (mHNPC) following the LATITUDE trial findings. However, a "risk"-related effect was not seen in the STAMPEDE trial. There remains uncertainty as to whether men with LATITUDE "low-risk" M1 disease benefit from androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) combined with abiraterone acetate and prednisolone (AAP). Evaluation of heterogeneity of effect between LATITUDE high- and low-risk M1 prostate cancer patients receiving ADT + AAP in the STAMPEDE trial. A post hoc subgroup analysis of the 2017 STAMPEDE "abiraterone comparison". Staging scans for M1 patients contemporaneously randomised to ADT or ADT + AAP within the STAMPEDE trial were evaluated centrally and blind to treatment assignment. Stratification was by risk according to the criteria set out in the LATITUDE trial. Exploratory subgroup stratification incorporated the CHAARTED criteria. The primary outcome measure was overall survival (OS) and the secondary outcome measure was failure-free survival (FFS). Further exploratory analysis evaluated clinical skeletal-related events, progression-free survival (PFS), and prostate cancer-specific death. Standard Cox-regression and Kaplan-Meier survival estimates were employed for analysis. A total of 901 M1 STAMPEDE patients were evaluated after exclusions. Of the patients, 428 (48%) were identified as having a low risk and 473 (52%) a high risk. Patients receiving ADT + AAP had significantly improved OS (low-risk hazard ratio [HR]: 0.66, 95% confidence interval or CI [0.44–0.98]) and FFS (low-risk HR: 0.24, 95% CI [0.17–0.33]) compared with ADT alone. Heterogeneity of effect was not seen between low- and high-risk groups for OS or FFS. For OS benefit in low risk, the number needed to treat was four times greater than that for high risk. However, this was not observed for the other measured endpoints. Men with mHNPC gain treatment benefit from ADT + AAP irrespective of risk stratification for "risk" or "volume". Coadministration of abiraterone acetate and prednisolone with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is associated with prolonged overall survival and disease control, compared with ADT alone, in all men with metastatic disease starting hormone therapy for the first time. A significant treatment benefit is observed in men with metastatic hormone-naïve prostate cancer treated with androgen deprivation therapy combined with abiraterone acetate and prednisolone, irrespective of being designated as having a "low" or a "high" risk by the current treatment criteria. This consistent result applies to all efficacy outcome measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel catalysts were prepared from malt bagasse, the main waste of brewery industry, and were employed in the synthesis of the ethylic biodiesel of soybean oil. Catalysts C1 and C2 were prepared by impregnation of KOH solution either on a previously calcined malt bagasse (C1) or on dried malt bagasse, followed by calcination (C2). Catalyst C1 presented 14.3% K+ w/w and specific surface area (S BET) of 2.495 m2 g−1, while these figures were 37.6% K+ w/w and 1.138 m2 g−1 for C2. Catalysts were further characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and lixiviation tests. A factorial design (23) was used to optimize the reaction time and the oil/ethanol molar ratio upon the biodiesel yield, being the reaction temperature (65 °C) and the catalyst amount (10% w/w catalyst/oil) fixed. Under optimum conditions, biodiesel yield was 91.8 ± 1.0% using C1, employing an 1:12 oil/ethanol molar ratio and 2 h of reaction time. Specific mass, cinematic viscosity and acidity index values of the biodiesel obtained in optimum conditions agree with the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the European Standards (EN). Catalyst C1 was reused once, affording the biodiesel in 88.7% yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the effects of different drying methods, namely sun, freeze, convective and microwave oven drying on the drying time, rate and kinetics were investigated in purple basil leaves. Additionally, the energy efficiencies of the driers were determined. All the drying processes took place mainly in the falling-rate period. Comparatively, higher drying rates were obtained from microwave oven drying of the samples. Eleven thin-layer drying models, (Lewis, Page, Modified Page I, Henderson and Pabis, Modified Henderson and Pabis, Logarithmic, Midilli, Modified Midilli, Two-Term, Two-Term Exponential, and Wang and Singh) were fitted to the experimental moisture ratio data. Handerson and Pabis for freeze drying, logarithmic for sun drying and Page for convective and microwave oven drying were found to be the best models for explaining the drying behavior of the purple basil leaves with the highest R2 and lowest RMSE values. The effective moisture diffusivity (Deff) values of the dried purple basil leaves were calculated with Fick's diffusion model and ranged from 1.62 × 10−9 to 7.09 × 10−8 m2/s. The energy efficiency of microwave oven drying was higher than the other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the prognostic relevance of non‐regional lymph node (NRLN) metastases presenting synchronously with bone metastases in metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa) for guiding treatment decisions based on oligometastatic definitions. Patients and Methods: Patients diagnosed with mPCa between 2004 and 2013 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database and were grouped by metastatic sites into only NRLN, only bone, bone + NRLN and other sites ± bone/NRLN metastases. Multivariate Cox and competing risk regression analyses were performed to compare the risks of all‐cause mortality (ACM) and prostate cancer‐specific mortality (PCSM) associated with bone + NRLN metastases before and after propensity‐score matching to patients with only bone metastases. This was complemented with landmark and supplementary analyses. Results: Of 17 167 patients with mPCa identified, 63.1% presented with only bone metastases, while bone and NRLN metastases co‐occurred in 8.9% of the cohort. On multivariate analyses, after adjusting for potential confounders (clinical and sociodemographic), patients with bone + NRLN metastases had a significantly higher risk of ACM (hazard ratio [HR] 1.161, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.084–1.243; P < 0.001) and PCSM (subdistribution HR 1.149, 95% CI 1.067–1.237; P < 0.001) compared with patients with only bone metastases. Landmark analyses limited to survivors of ≥6 and ≥12 months again showed a significantly increased risk of ACM for patients presenting with bone + NRLN metastases compared with patients with only bone metastases. In a subsequent 1:1 propensity‐score‐matched cohort of patients with bone + NRLN metastases and only bone metastases, the bone + NRLN group had higher multivariate‐adjusted hazard rates for ACM (HR 1.202, 95% CI 1.102–1.311; P < 0.001) and PCSM (subdistribution HR 1.146, 95% CI 1.044–1.259; P = 0.004). Conclusions: Patients with concomitant NRLN and bone metastases have a higher risk of death, NRLN and bone metastases therefore representing a high‐risk feature, when compared with patients with bone metastases alone. The current therapeutic stratification of 'low‐' vs 'high‐volume' disease does not account for this phenomenon, and patients requiring aggressive combination therapy may not receive maximum therapeutic benefit as a consequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract First-principles calculations based on the density function theory (DFT) are implemented to explore the effect of Cu doping on the structural, electronic and optical properties of SrTi O 3 Perovskite using generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and ultrasoft pseudo-potential (USP). The effects of Cu doping on the formation energy, electronic structure and optical property are discussed here. The results of formation energies infer that Cu doping at Sr site in SrTi O 3 is more favorable as compared to Ti site. Cu incorporation at Sr site affects the electronic band structure of SrTi O 3 significantly by introducing new states at Gamma point consequently transforming its indirect band gap into the direct one. The relocation of density of states to lower energies, and an increased interaction between Cu atom and its neighboring atoms after Cu doping in SrTi O 3 are observed. Furthermore, the partial density of states of SrTiO 3 changes significantly at the bottom of conduction band and hence we conclude that the Cu doping affects the electronic band structure of SrTi O 3. Cu doped SrTi O 3 offers enhanced optical properties and its conversion to direct band gap makes it an appealing candidate for optoelectronic devices. Highlights • DFT based calculations performed to investigate the effect of Cu doping on structural, electronic and optical properties of SrTiO 3. • Formation energies suggest favorable Cu incorporation at Sr site instead of Ti site. • Cu doping in host lattice modifies the electronic band structure by introducing new states at gamma point. • A possible conversion of indirect band of SrTi O 3 to the direct band is predicted. • Densities of states shift to lower energies, with greater interaction between Cu atom and its neighboring atoms. • Improved absorption is reported for Cu doped SrTi O 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Growth of poly- Ge films on quartz glass via thermal evaporation method. • Annealing induced morphology evolution for preferential crystal growth. • Impact of heat treatment on the microstructural, electrical, and optical properties. • Better crystallinity in conjunction with reduction in localised band tail states confirmed by the red-shift in band gap. • Phase-inversion from amorphous-to-polycrystalline Germanium thin films. In this work, we present the sequential growth of metal–semiconductor bilayer structure on HF-treated textured glass substrates by thermal evaporation method. The process of aluminum-induced crystallization of amorphous germanium thin films was critically observed under heat treatment. Temperature assisted structural modifications triggered the nucleation phenomenon for controlled grain growth which transformed the nature of Ge-thin film from amorphous-to-polycrystalline. Interestingly, the electrical resistivity also decreased by subsequent annealing which promoted the conduction mechanism. Optical measurements indicated a dwindling in band tail states and related structural defects, leading to better crystallinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary intraosseous osteolytic meningiomas are not common, and total surgical removal is the best treatment option if the location allows that; however, long‐term follow‐up is recommended since it may recur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Machine foundations with impact loads are common powerful sources of industrial vibrations. These foundations are generally transferring vertical dynamic loads to the soil and generate ground vibrations which may harmfully affect the surrounding structures or buildings. Dynamic effects range from severe trouble of working conditions for some sensitive instruments or devices to visible structural damage. This work includes an experimental study on the behavior of dry dense sand under the action of a single impulsive load. The objective of this research is to predict the dry sand response under impact loads. Emphasis will be made on attenuation of waves induced by impact loads through the soil. The research also includes studying the effect of footing embedment, and footing area on the soil behavior and its dynamic response. Different falling masses from different heights were conducted using the falling weight deflectometer (FWD) to provide the single pulse energy. The responses of different soils were evaluated at different locations (vertically below the impact plate and horizontally away from it). These responses include; displacements, velocities, and accelerations that are developed due to the impact acting at top and different depths within the soil using the falling weight deflectometer (FWD) and accelerometers (ARH-500A Waterproof, and Low capacity Acceleration Transducer) that are embedded in the soil in addition to soil pressure gauges. It was concluded that increasing the footing embedment depth results in increase in the amplitude of the force-time history by about 10-30% due to increase in the degree of confinement. This is accompanied by a decrease in the displacement response of the soil by about 40-50% due to increase in the overburden pressure when the embedment depth increased which leads to increasing the stiffness of sandy soil. There is also increase in the natural frequency of the soil-foundation system by about 20-45%. For surface foundation, the foundation is free to oscillate in vertical, horizontal and rocking modes. But, when embedding a footing, the surrounding soil restricts oscillation due to confinement which leads to increasing the natural frequency. Moreover, the soil density increases with depth because of compaction, which makes the soil behave as a solid medium. Increasing the footing embedment depth results in an increase in the damping ratio by about 50-150% due to the increase of soil density as D/B increases, hence the soil tends to behave as a solid medium which activates both viscous and strain damping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experimental study of the behavior of sandy soils having different densities was conducted under the action of a single impulsive load. Dry silica sands of different densities and saturated sand were tested. Different falling masses from different heights were conducted using the falling weight deflectometer to provide the single pulse energy. Variation of damping with different parameters was examined, these are; footing embedment, depth to diameter ratios, diameter of the impact plate, the applied energy and soil density (dense, medium, and loose) in addition to moisture content (dry or saturated sands). The variation of soil density leads to increase the damping ratio increases by about 20-80% when the soil density is varied from loose to dense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel 2D Ti3C2Tx (MXene)-reinforced polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers have been successfully fabricated by an electrospinning technique. The high aspect ratio, hydrophilic surfaces, and metallic conductivity of delaminated MXene nanosheet render it promising nanofiller for high performance nanocomposites. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were used to improve the mechanical properties of the nanofibers. The obtained electrospun nanofibers had diameter from 174 to 194 nm depending on ratio between PVA, CNC and MXene. Dynamic mechanical analysis demonstrated an increase in the elastic modulus from 392 MPa for neat PVA fibers to 855 MPa for fibers containing CNC and MXene at 25°C. Moreover, PVA nanofibers containing 0.14 wt. % Ti3C2Tx exhibited dc conductivity of 0.8 mS/cm conductivity which is superior compared to similar composites prepared using methods other than electrospinning. Improved mechanical and electrical characteristics of the Ti3C2Tx /CNC/PVA composites make them viable materials for high performance energy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors' aim was to find the possible positive relationships among branding constructs (brand image, brand perceived quality, brand satisfaction, brand trust, and brand loyalty) to explain consumer purchasing behavior toward halal brands. The authors proposed and empirically tested a conceptual model consisting of variables such as brand image, brand perceived quality, brand satisfaction, brand trust, and brand loyalty. A sample of 324 international Muslim respondents in China was gathered through the use of convenience and snowball sampling methods, and the hypotheses were tested by performing structural equation modeling. The empirical results show that the brand image of a halal milk brand is found to directly and positively affect consumer brand perceived quality, brand satisfaction, brand trust, and brand loyalty except for consumer brand purchase intention. This study suggests that companies dealing with halal brands should invest more resources to increase brand perceived quality, brand satisfaction, brand trust, and brand loyalty because these factors are positively associated with customers' brand purchase intention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: to determine the prescription pattern of drug for hospitalized patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) attending a tertiary care hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan. METHODS: This retrospective study was conducted from January 2015 to February 2015 in the department of endocrinology of tertiary care private sector hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan. During 2 months study period, 354 prescriptions were collected and analyzed. Prescriptions written for all DM patients of any gender, socio-economic status, religion specificity and ethnicity were included. RESULTS: Out of 354 patients, 209 (59%) were female and 145 (41%) were males; majority age group was 60-69 years. Most common concurrent disease with DM was hypertension (31.63%). The maximum time spent by diabetic patients in hospitals was 3-days (27.15%). The most prescribed drugs were cardiovascular drugs (21.80% in females and 26.11% in males) followed by antibiotic (16.02% in females and 17.04% in males patients). Most common prescribed dosage form to female diabetic was tablet (46.19%) and to male diabetics was injection (45.84%). The most frequently prescribed anti-diabetic drug as a monotherapy was insulin (29.66%), two-drug combination was sitagliptin+metformin (8.47%), three-drug drug combinations were insulin+sitagliptin+metformin (5.08%) and four drug combinations were insulin+vildagliptin+metformin+pioglitazone (0.84%). The most frequently antibiotic prescribed for the management of diabetic foot was ceftriaxone (14.45%). CONCLUSION: In our study, most prescribed antihyperglycemic monotheray drug for hospitalized diabetic patient was insulin and two-drug combination drugs were sitagliptin+metformin. The most commonly drugs prescribed apart from anti-diabetic were cardiovascular drugs followed by antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochemical events that start with cheese production and continue throughout ripening are directly related to flavour development in cheese. These reactions are also affected by the physical and chemical nature of the cheese. Volatile composition and related biochemical changes in brined cheeses were studied recently by using chromatographic techniques. Differences in the manufacture and ripening of brined cheeses reflect their chemical and biochemical characteristics, and hence, volatile composition. The main characteristic volatile group was carboxylic acids in the majority of brined cheeses and this was followed by ester and alcohol groups. In conclusion, the levels of salt, pH and gross chemical composition of these cheeses were determinative for the levels of volatiles in these cheeses. In the future, studies should focus on the characterisation of volatiles and aroma-active components in brine ripened cheeses affected by biochemical change and microbial ecology of the cheese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]