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Cryopreservation is essential for the broad clinical application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), yet its impact on their cellular characteristics and cardiomyogenic differentiation potential remains a critical concern in translational medicine. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cryopreservation on the biological properties and cardiomyogenic capacity of rat adipose-derived MSCs (AD-MSCs). We examined their cellular morphology, surface marker expression (CD29, CD90, CD45), trilineage differentiation potential (adipogenic, osteogenic, chondrogenic), and gene expression profiles for the pluripotency marker REX1 and immunomodulatory markers TGFβ1 and IL-6. After inducing cardiomyocyte differentiation, we assessed cardiac-specific gene expressions (Troponin I, MEF2c, GSK-3β) using quantitative RT-qPCR, along with live/dead cell staining and immunofluorescence for cardiac-specific proteins (Troponin T, α-actinin, Myosin Heavy Chain). Cryopreserved AD-MSCs preserved their morphology, surface markers, and differentiation potential, but exhibited a reduced expression of REX1, TGFβ1, and IL-6. Additionally, cryopreservation diminished cardiomyogenic differentiation, as indicated by the lower levels of Troponin I, MEF2c, and GSK-3β seen compared to non-cryopreserved cells. Despite this, high cell viability (>90%) and maintained cardiac protein expression were observed post-cryopreservation. These findings highlight the necessity of optimizing cryopreservation protocols to ensure the full therapeutic potential of AD-MSCs, particularly in applications related to cardiac regenerative medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are particularly damaging contaminants in the environment, and even trace concentrations represent a risk to human health due to their toxicity. To detect the heavy metals of Mn2+ and Co2+ ions, a novel selective reusable paper-based Fluorescence naked-eye sensor based on naphthalene cationic Schiff base (NCSB) was synthesized and confirmed using FT-IR, 1 H-NMR, and MS tools. Based on a blue to colorless color change in the aqueous solution, the NCSB sensor is utilized to Mn2+ and Co2+ cations selectively among other metal ions (Fe2+, Cu2+, Mg2+, Ni2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Hg2+, Pb2+, Sn2+ and Cr3+). In the aqueous medium, the NCSB sensor displayed high sensitivity, with limits of detection (LOD) values of 0.014 µM (14.08 nM) and 0.041 µM (41.47 nM) for Mn2+ and Co2+ cations, respectively. The paper-based sensor naked-eye detected Mn2+ and Co2+ cations in water at concentrations as low as 0.65 µM (65 nM) and 0.086 µM (86 nM), respectively. It was discovered that 5 min of incubation time and a pH range of 7 to 11 were optimal for the complexation reaction between the Mn2+ and Co2+ ions and the NCSB sensor. Through a static quenching process, the interaction of the different metal ions with the Schiff base group in the NCSB molecule results in the development of a ground-state non-fluorescent complex. NCSB sensor was also successfully applied in analysis of Mn2+ and Co2+ in environmental water with good recoveries of 94.8–105.9%. The theoretical calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) studies are in support of experimental interpretations. The links between the input factors and the anticipated response were evaluated using the quadratic model of the response surface methodology (RSM) modeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of ankle blood pressure measurements in relation to invasive blood pressure in the lateral position. Methods: This prospective observational study included adult patients scheduled for elective non-cardiac surgery under general anesthesia in the lateral position. Paired radial artery invasive and ankle noninvasive blood pressure readings were recorded in the lateral position using GE Carescape B650 monitor. The primary outcome was the ability of ankle mean arterial pressure (MAP) to detect hypotension (MAP < 70 mmHg) using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analysis. The secondary outcomes were the ability of ankle systolic blood pressure (SBP) to detect hypertension (SBP > 140 mmHg) as well as bias (invasive measurement – noninvasive measurement), and agreement between the two methods using the Bland-Altman analysis. Results: We analyzed 415 paired readings from 30 patients. The AUC (95% confidence interval [CI]) of ankle MAP for detecting hypotension was 0.88 (0.83–0.93). An ankle MAP of ≤ 86 mmHg had negative and positive predictive values (95% CI) of 99 (97–100)% and 21 (15–29)%, respectively, for detecting hypotension. The AUC (95% CI) of ankle SBP to detect hypertension was 0.83 (0.79–0.86) with negative and positive predictive values (95% CI) of 95 (92–97)% and 36 (26–46)%, respectively, at a cutoff value of > 144 mmHg. The mean bias between the two methods was − 12 ± 17, 3 ± 12, and − 1 ± 11 mmHg for the SBP, diastolic blood pressure, and MAP, respectively. Conclusion: In patients under general anesthesia in the lateral position, ankle blood pressure measurements are not interchangeable with the corresponding invasive measurements. However, an ankle MAP > 86 mmHg can exclude hypotension with 99% accuracy, and an ankle SBP < 144 mmHg can exclude hypertension with 95% accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Colorectal carcinoma is one of the most common malignancies of the gastrointestinal tract. The aim of the present study was to compare the transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) to the robotic-assisted laparoscopic resection of mid- and low rectal carcinoma regarding the clinical and oncological outcome. Methods This was a prospective cohort study. This study was held on patients presenting with rectal cancer. Eighty patients were included divided into two groups, 40 patients were subjected to TaTME and 40 patients were subjected to roboticassisted resection. Results Rectal resection was performed in both groups and the results were compared; total time was significantly less in TaTME group (mean time was 179.10 min in TaTME and 266.35 in robotic, P value < 0.001), estimated blood loss was significantly less in TaTME group (mean was 130.50 ml in TaTME and 212 ml in robotic, P value=0.017), cost was significantly less in TaTME group (mean cost ×1000L.E was 46.15 in TaTME and 110.70 in robotic, P value less than 0.001), distal margin was significantly more in the robotic group (mean was 2.68 compared with 2.02 in TaTME, P value=0.002), hospital stay was significantly less in the robotic group (mean of 4.6 days compared with 5.1 for TaTME, P value=0.014) and there was no statistically significant difference concerning the total number of lymph nodes, proximal and circumferential margins. Conclusion This study suggests that robotic surgery is safe and effective and has some advantages concerning distal margins of low rectal resections. Also, TaTME can be compared with robotic surgery and represents an effective and less expensive alternative for robotic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses bidirectional step-down topologies that enable the interface of the 400 V unipolar DC microgrid with the European low-voltage three-phase AC grid. The study compares three single-stage non-isolated topologies, namely, the seven-switch buck converter, Swiss converter, and Y-converter, based on semiconductor stresses and losses, magnetic component sizes and losses, and heat sink sizes. The analysis is conducted for a 10 k W converter designed for small commercial or residential use. The results indicate that the Y-converter has superior overall performance compared to the other topologies, making it a potentially better candidate for this application. A 10 k W prototype of the Y-converter is constructed. It is demonstrated to have a peak efficiency of 99.26 % and an efficiency of 97.47 % at the rated output power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Most patients with sigmoid volvulus are of old age with multiple comorbidities. So, the risk of surgery for those elderly patients is usually associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality. Early intervention is required for managing sigmoid volvulus to avoid its serious complications; therefore, early endoscopic untwist of sigmoid colon can be performed followed by endoscopic fixation of sigmoid colon under sedation in this category of the patients to avoid development of high risk surgical complications following surgical fixation of sigmoid colon or sigmoidectomy after initial simple loop colostomy procedure to relieve obstruction. Methods: This prospective randomized controlled clinical trial included all patients who developed acute sigmoid volvulus and were referred to the Zagazig University Hospital Emergency Department between December 2020 and August 2022. The study was prospectively approved by Zagazig University Faculty of Medicine Institutional Review Board (Approval Number: 9989/23-10-2022) and was retrospectively submitted in http://clinicaltrials.gov in November 2022 (http://clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT05620446). Included eligible patients were simply randomized at a 1:1 ratio to "Endoscopic Group (EG)" or "Surgical Group (SG)" via drawing of sealed envelopes containing computer-generated random numbers prepared by a third party before start of intervention. Results: Sample size included 18 patients divided into 2 equal groups. (1) Endoscopic group included 9 patients who were subjected to endoscopic untwist of sigmoid colon followed by endoscopic fixation of sigmoid colon under sedation; (2) Surgical group included 9 patients who were subjected to surgical fixation of sigmoid colon or sigmoidectomy after initial simple loop colostomy under general anesthesia. In comparison between both groups, there were statistically significant differences regarding length of hospital stay and procedure time. Unfortunately, there were no statistically significant differences regarding postoperative complications and co-morbidities. Eight patients in the endoscopy group demonstrated excellent quality of life, and one demonstrated good quality of life; unlike the surgical group, there were 3 patients with excellent quality of life, 5 patients with good quality of life, and 1 patient with poor quality of life. So there was statistically significant difference regarding quality of life between both groups. During the 9-month follow-up period, both groups demonstrated no cases of recurrence post-fixation. Conclusion: Endoscopic management of acute sigmoid volvulus is effective and safe in elderly high risk surgical patients (either in managing the intestinal obstruction caused by volvulus or in definitive treatment of volvulus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colonic anastomotic leak and fistula following anterior resection surgery for rectal cancer are associated with high mortality rates. The incidence of occurrence varies from 2 to 25% and it is difficult to accurately calculate the incidence of fistula and leak post anterior resection, as most of them are asymptomatic. Endoscopic management of fistula and leak has become the first line of management after conservative management in many gastrointestinal surgical centers with the advantages of being less invasive, shorter length of post-operative hospital stay, effective and rapid recovery in comparison to revision surgery. Effective endoscopic management for colonic fistula or leak depends on the clinical status of the patient and fistula characters (time-to-occur and size and site of defect), and device availability. Methods: This prospective randomized controlled clinical trial included all patients who developed the manifestations of low output recurrent colonic fistula or leak after colonic anterior resection for rectal cancer at Zagazig University Hospital between (December 2020 and August 2022). Sample size was 78 patients divided into two equal groups. Endoscopic group (EG): included 39 patients who underwent endoscopic management. Surgical group (SG): included 39 patients who underwent surgical management. Results: The investigators randomized eligible 78 patients into two groups: 39 patients in SG and 39 patients in EG. The median size of the fistula or leak was nine (range: 7–14) mm in EG, versus ten (range: 7–12) mm in SG. Clipping and Endo-stitch device were used in 24 patients versus 15 patients, respectively, in EG while primary repair with ileostomy, and resection & anastomosis were used in 15 patients versus 24 patients, respectively, in SG. Recurrence, abdominal collection, and mortality were the post procedure's complications with incidence of occurrence of 10.3, 7.7 and 0%, respectively, in EG versus 20.5, 20.5 and 2.6%, respectively, in SG. Excellent, good, and poor were the parameters for quality of life with incidence of occurrence of 43.6, 54.6 and 0%, respectively, in EG versus 28.2, 33.3 and 38.5%, respectively, in SG. Median hospital stay was one (range: 1–2) day in endoscopic group, and seven (range: 6–8) days in SG. Conclusion: Endoscopic intervention may offer a successful modality in managing low output recurrent colonic fistula or leak after anterior resection for rectal cancer that did not respond to conservative measures in stable patients. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05659446. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Traditional echocardiographic imaging mainly identifies cardiac diseases when symptoms are clear. This makes the innovation of new methods for the prediction and early diagnosis of cardiac diseases inevitable, especially when diastolic function evaluation is needed. Generally, non-invasive assessment of heart function is currently attracting great attention away from sophisticated techniques. With the development of color M-mode echocardiography (CMME), the derived intraventricular pressure differences (IVPDs) and intraventricular pressure gradients (IVPGs) created a breakthrough in the non-invasive assessment of diastolic function in animal models as well as in some companion animals and human studies. They are beneficial for continuous data acquisition without invasive interference, and their results showed good relatedness with the measurements acquired from the catheterization technique. The assessment of diastolic function has received great interest in order to comprehend its crucial role in the pathophysiology of heart failure and for the early identification of cardiac events. Silent changes in the intraventricular flow (IVF) dynamics occur before the deterioration of the cardiac wall, although they cannot be detected using conventional echocardiography. Collective information on left ventricular (LV) pressures throughout the cardiac cycle has great value when dealing with patients with altered hemodynamics. Accurate pressure measurement inside the ventricle can be obtained by invasive methods to determine the LV diastolic pressures, which reflect the myocardial relaxation and compliance. However, catheterization is only feasible in the laboratory setting and is not suitable for clinical use due to its disadvantages. In contrast, echocardiography is simple, safe, and accessible. Color M-mode echocardiography (CMME) is an advanced cardiac evaluation technique that can measure the intraventricular pressure differences (IVPDs) and intraventricular pressure gradients (IVPGs) based on the Doppler shift of the IVF. Recently, the assessment of IVPD and IVPG has gained growing interest in the cardiovascular literature in both animal and human studies as a non-invasive method for the early diagnosis of cardiac dysfunctions, especially diastolic ones. The usability of IVPD and IVPG has been reported in various surgically induced heart failure or pharmacologically altered cardiac functions in rats, dogs, cats, and goats. This report aims to give an overview of the current studies of CMME-derived IVPD and IVPG in animal studies and its feasibility for clinical application in veterinary practice and to provide the prospects of the technique's ability to improve our understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) is a recently developed technique to overcome difficulties of rectal cancer resection spatially in male patients, large tumors, high body mass index, and low rectal cancer. Methods From April 2018 to March 2021, 30 patients were included. Single-team TaTME was done, using traditional Laparoscopic instruments and a two-dimensional HD camera, starting with the abdominal phase. The analysis focused on operative data and short-term surgical outcomes. Results 30 taTME procedures were performed, 16 (53.3%) males and 14 (47.7%) females, with a mean age of 50.43 years. There were 21 (70%) patients with tumors in the middle part of the rectum and 9 (30%) patients with tumors in the low rectum. All patients received Long Course Neoadjuvant CRT. The duration of hospital stay was 5.27±1.08 days. The median operative time was 135.27 min the estimated blood loss was 133.67 66.59 ml. Complete mesorectal excision was achieved in all patients. Circumferential radial margin (CRM) was negative in all cases. 1 (3.3%) case needed conversion to an open approach. The overall postoperative complications rate was 6.6% (2 cases). Postoperative ileus occurred once, and anastomotic leakage occurred in one patient. Conclusions In experienced hands, TaTME is a safe technique but still a challenging procedure. The author suggest that single team approach is not time-consuming (operative time was less than what had been reported by other authors using the two-team approach), and dissection should be done through the proper plane (TME planes) lateral to the urosacral ligament in females and its analog in males named prostatosacral ligament as described in the Paper to minimize the incidence of local recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Computer aided planning of free vascularized fibula flap is introduced for treating cases with bone defects. Objective: The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness and benefits of planning and simulation in the outcome of free fibula flap (FFF). Patients and methods: A total of 30 cases were managed in Menoufia University Hospital, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department, between March 2020 and May 2023. The participants in our study were 15 consecutive patients (Group 1) who had free fibula flap mandibular reconstruction utilizing CAD-CAM technology and 15 more patients (Group 2) had free fibular mandibular repair using standard methods. Results: In contrast to the conventional group (812 minutes), the CAD-CAM group's overall intraoperative duration was much less (662 minutes). In the CAD-CAM group, only 1 patient had postoperative malocclusion, compared to 6 individuals in the conventional group. Conclusion: The computer aided planning is effectively allowing the procedure to be performed with less time, effort, complications and hospitalization time, moreover increased accuracy, better functional and aesthetic outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory illness that impacts two to three percent of the global population. Cardiovascular (CV) comorbidities in cases with psoriasis may be asymptomatic and may even result in sudden mortality. Despite its widespread recognition, the N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is not yet a standard tool for predicting (CV) outcomes in patients. Objective: The research's goal was to estimate NT-proBNP, as a predictor of CVD, in psoriasis cases and compare it with healthy non psoriatic controls and searching for any correlation among the level of serum NT-proBNP and severity of psoriasis, as defined by PASI (Psoraisis Area and Severity Index). Patients and Methods: 50 participants with psoriasis and 40 matched healthy controls underwent laboratory test for serum level of NT-proBNP: Each participant had 3 ml of venous blood drawn, centrifuged at 3000 g for five minutes. The serum was stored at -70 degrees Celsius for further biochemical examination. Serum paraoxonase-1 concentrations were measured utilizing ELISA kits Cat. No E3041Hu. Results: In cases who had psoriasis, NT-proBNP levels were considerably greater than in the control group (median=148.5 against 53; p<0.01). Psoriasis severity was inversely related to NT-proBNP rise. Among psoriasis cases, those with hyperlipidemia had significantly higher NT-proBNP level when compared to those with non-hyperlipidemia. Conclusion: Increased levels of NT-proBNP were seen in the studied psoriatic individuals, supporting the possibility of utilizing this biomarker to predict CV hazard in people with psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Engineering of the interface between perovskite absorber thin films and charge transport layers has fueled the development of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) over the past decade. For p‐i‐n PSCs, the development and adoption of hole transport layers utilizing self‐assembled monolayers (SAM‐HTLs) based on carbazole functional groups with phosphonic acid anchoring groups has enabled almost lossless contacts, minimizing interfacial recombination to advance power conversion efficiency in single‐junction and tandem solar cells. However, so far these materials have been deposited exclusively via solution‐based methods. Here, for the first time, vacuum‐based evaporation of the most common carbazole‐based SAM‐HTLs (2PACz, MeO‐2PACz, and Me‐4PACz) is reported. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy demonstrate no observable chemical differences in the evaporated SAMs compared to solution‐processed counterparts. Consequently, the near lossless interfacial properties are either preserved or even slightly improved as demonstrated via photoluminescence measurements and an enhancement in open‐circuit voltage. Strikingly, applying evaporated SAM‐HTLs to complete PSCs demonstrates comparable performance to their solution‐processed counterparts. Furthermore, vacuum deposition is found to improve perovskite wetting and fabrication yield on previously non‐ideal materials (namely Me‐4PACz) and to display conformal and high‐quality coating of micrometer‐sized textured surfaces, improving the versatility of these materials without sacrificing their beneficial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perioperative pain management related to hip surgical procedures is challenging. Pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block is a novel technique that is assumed to provide better analgesia in addition to its post-operative motor-sparing effect. In this review, we aim to assess the safety and efficacy of PENG block on pain management in patients undergoing hip surgeries. Fifteen clinical trials with a total of 837 patients were included. Pain scores favored PENG group when compared to FICB group (fascia iliaca compartment block) or analgesics-only group, but the difference could only be detected in the early post-operative period. Afterward, it seems to lose its superiority, and no difference could be detected. In addition, cumulative opioid consumption favored PENG group at 24 h but not at 48 h. Regarding patients' satisfaction, our analysis showed results favoring PENG group, but there was no difference in time to first opioid or length of hospital stay. The incidence of vomiting was lower in PENG, but there was no difference in the incidence of nausea, pruritis, and dizziness. PENG provides better analgesia and lower opioid consumption in the initial post-operative period. Current evidence is not enough, and further high-quality randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent development of solution‐processed perovskite thin films over micrometer‐sized textured silicon bottom solar cells enables tandem solar cells with power conversion efficiencies > 30%. Next to improved light harvesting, textured silicon wafers are the industrial standard. To achieve high performance, the open‐circuit voltage losses that occur when fabricating perovskite solar cells over such textures need to be mitigated. This study provides a practical guideline to discriminate and address the voltage losses at the interfaces as well as in the bulk of solution‐processed double cation perovskite thin films using photoluminescence quantum yield measurements. Furthermore, the origin of these losses is investigated via morphological, microstructural, and compositional analysis and present possible mitigation strategies. The guideline will be beneficial for scientists working on randomly textured surfaces and provides a deeper understanding on this timely research topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent development of solution‐processed perovskite thin films over micrometer‐sized textured silicon bottom solar cells enables tandem solar cells with power conversion efficiencies > 30%. Next to improved light harvesting, textured silicon wafers are the industrial standard. To achieve high performance, the open‐circuit voltage losses that occur when fabricating perovskite solar cells over such textures need to be mitigated. This study provides a practical guideline to discriminate and address the voltage losses at the interfaces as well as in the bulk of solution‐processed double cation perovskite thin films using photoluminescence quantum yield measurements. Furthermore, the origin of these losses is investigated via morphological, microstructural, and compositional analysis and present possible mitigation strategies. The guideline will be beneficial for scientists working on randomly textured surfaces and provides a deeper understanding on this timely research topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The industrial and medical sectors have a great interest in chitosan due to its unique properties, such as abundance, renewability, non-toxicity, antibacterial activity, biodegradability, and polyfunctionality. In this work, two modified chitosan Schiff bases (ChSB-1 and ChSB-2) were made using condensation methods, and their potential as corrosion inhibitor for carbon steel in 1 M HCl was investigated using chemical and electrochemical techniques. The ChSB-1 and ChSB-2 inhibitors exhibited remarkable inhibitory performance, as evidenced by the mass loss data, which showed 89.3 % and 91.5 % efficacy at 1 mM concentration, respectively. Because of the electron-donor substituent of methoxy (–OCH 3), ChSB-2's active sites have more delocalized electrons than ChSB-1's. The PDP results showed that both ChSB-1 and ChSB-2 inhibitors have anti-corrosion characteristics because heteroatoms caused a protective layer to develop that functioned as mixed-typed inhibitors. The calculated adsorption-free energy ∆ G ads o for ChSB-1 and ChSB-2, respectively, was found −36.1 and − 37.1 kJ mol−1. The ChSB-1 and ChSB-2 inhibitors adsorb on carbon steel in acidic conditions through physisorption and chemisorption interactions, and their adsorption is in line with the Langmuir adsorption model. Inhibited and uninhibited metallic surfaces were subjected to surface morphological assessments using contact angle (CA), the scanning electron microscopy and the energy dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX) analysis. The DMol3 part of Materials Studio 7.0 software was used to perform the quantum chemical calculations based on DFT to visualize the structural features. Studies from quantum chemistry suggest the possibility of surface interaction between the unoccupied orbitals of the metal surface and the inhibitors ChSB-1, ChSB-2, ChSB-1H+, and ChSB-2H+. The results clearly show that the two inhibitors work well as environmentally friendly carbon steel corrosion inhibitors in acidic medium. This could be advantageous for industrial procedures such as pickling, cleaning, acidizing oil drilling in oil wells, and using citrus to de-sediment boilers. • Chitosan-Schiff base derivatives (ChSBs) were synthesized and confirmed. • ChSBs were investigated as corrosion inhibitors in 1 M HCl solution. • Polarization studies indicated that ChSBs acted as a mixed-type inhibitor. • Adsorption studies indicated that the inhibitor obeyed the Langmuir isotherm model. • The theoretical calculations are correlated well with experimental techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Two cationic surfactants based hydroxyethyl synthesized and characterized. • DC 12 and PC 12 act as mixed inhibitors for S90 steel in produced water. • A DFT analysis reveals a link between electronic and inhibitory performance. • The corrosion process controlled via adsorption and aqueous repulsion effects. • DC 12 and PC 12 adsorbed at the steel according to langmuir adsorption isotherm. To overcome both the bad economic and environmental effects resulting from oil wells produced water corrosion problems, two new cationic surfactants, N -(2-hydroxyethyl)- N,N -dimethyldodecan-1-aminium bromide (DC 12) and 1-dodecyl-3-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-1-ium bromide (PC 12), was created, and their chemical structures were characterized using FTIR and 1H NMR analyses. Both surfactants DC 12 and DC 12 were examined as corrosion inhibitors for S90 steel in oil-wells-produced water at 298 K. The results showed that these amphiphile concentrations significantly boosted inhibitory effectiveness. At a dosage of 250 ppm, it had a maximal inhibitory efficacy of 84.1 % and 86.2 % for DC 12 and PC 12 , respectively. Inhibitors of DC 12 and PC 12 both meet the predictions for physisorption and chemisorption made by the Langmuir model. Atomic force microscope (AFM) analysis was performed as a surface morphology inspection for the S90 carbon steel. Simulations utilizing density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD) helped to validate these findings. As a result, both DC 12 and PC 12 are efficient corrosion inhibitors that can be employed to prevent steel deterioration caused by the effects of oil well-produced water on metallic equipment. Finally, a suitable corrosion inhibition mechanism was postulated and discussed. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis represent two of the most common inflammatory skin diseases in developed countries. A hallmark of both diseases is T‐cell infiltration into the skin. However, it is still not clarified to what extent these infiltrating T cells are antigen‐specific skin‐homing T cells or unspecific heterogeneous bystander cells. Methods: To elucidate this, T cells from lesional skin and from blood of 9 AD and 10 psoriasis patients were compared by receptor (TCR) sequencing. Therefore, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were cell‐sorted according to expression of the cutaneous leukocyte antigen (CLA) into skin‐homing (CLA+) and non‐skin‐homing (CLA−) subfractions. Aeroallergen‐specific T‐cell lines were grown from AD patients' PBMC in parallel. Results: Intra‐individual comparison of TCRB CDR3 regions revealed that clonally expanded T cells in skin lesions of both AD and psoriasis patients corresponded to skin‐homing circulating T cells. However, in psoriasis patients, these T‐cell clones were also detectable to a larger extent among CLA− circulating T cells. Up to 28% of infiltrating cells in AD skin were identified as allergen‐specific by overlapping TCR sequences. Conclusions: Our data show that in line with the systemic nature of psoriasis, T‐cell clones that infiltrate psoriatic skin lesions do not exclusively possess skin‐homing ability and are therefore most probably specific to antigens that are not exclusively expressed or located in the skin. T cells driving AD skin inflammation appear to home nearly exclusively to the skin and are, to a certain extent, specific to aeroallergens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various complications of endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) have been described. One has to recognize these complications and learn how to avoid them. Methods: We performed a literature review regarding the reported complications of ETV procedures discussed in a correlated manner with the surgical steps. Furthermore, we reviewed the technical notes described by experienced neuroendoscopists, including surgical indications, choice of the endoscopic entry point and trajectory, anatomic orientation, proper bleeding control and tight closure, to prevent and deal with such complications. Results and conclusion: A lesson learned that comprehensive knowledge of ventricular anatomy with proper orientation by studying the preoperative images is mandatory and one should be aware of all complication types and rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water footprint (WF), based on irrigation water quality, is important as a decision-making tool for crop selection based on the comparative advantage of water consumption and yield to maximize agricultural water productivity and sustainably improve water use efficiency. This paper presents a generic link between climate variability and water footprint. To support this link, a case study is presented for wheat and maize in different agro-climate zones in Egypt. In this study, the three agro-ecological zones, Nile Delta, Middle Egypt, and Upper Egypt, were selected to represent three different microclimates. The climate data were analyzed to estimate reference evapotranspiration (ETo) and calculate crop water use (CWU) for wheat and maize from 2015 through 2019. Cultivated area and yield data were analyzed during the study period. Water footprint (WF) was calculated for old land (clay soils) and new lands (sandy soils) in three climate regions based on blue and grey water. Green water was excluded due to negligible rainfall depths in Egypt. The results showed that the mean values of WF for maize were 1067, 1395, 1655 m3/ton in old land and 1395, 1634, 2232 m3/ton in new land under the three climate regions, respectively, while it was 923, 982, 1117 m3/ton in old land and 1180, 1258, 1452 m3/ton for wheat in new land for the three regions, respectively. The results show that the crop water use fluctuated over regions due to climate variability where the CWU values were 6211, 7335, 8007 m3/ha for maize and 4348, 4825, 5774 m3/ha for wheat in the three regions, respectively. The results show an 11% and 33% increase in maize and an 18% and 29% increase in wheat CWU in Middle and Upper Egypt regions comparing to what was observed in Nile Delta due to an increase in solar radiation, temperature, and wind speed. The Egypt mean value of wheat water footprint was 1152 m3/ton and mean value of maize water footprint was 1563 m3/ton. The data clearly show the effect of microclimate variability on WF and irrigation requirements between regions. The methodology and results from this study provide a pathway to help the policy makers to mitigate climate change impacts on crop yield and to enhance water resources management in major crop production regions by redistribution of the cropping patterns based on the comparative advantages of each crop within each region. The crop choices relative to the soil water retention characteristics could also contribute to the moderation of microclimate, which affects ETo and ETc and the water footprint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental impact of corrosion is very dangerous and consumes much of world's efforts and funds. This work discusses the safeguarding of the environment, metals, and metal-infra structures by efficient Schiff's base inhibitors. The corrosion inhibitors [(1E,3E)-N1,N3-dibutyl-1-(thiophen-2-yl)butane-1,3-diimine] (GSB-I) and [(1Z,3Z)-N1,N3-bis(4-methylhexan-2-yl)-1-(thiophen-2-yl)butane-1,3-diimine] (GSB-II) were successfully synthesized and evaluated for the protection of API 5L X65 steel (CS) in 1 M HCl media using electrochemical techniques, SEM/EDS, and quantum chemical calculations. GSB-I and GSB-inhibitory I's efficiency is proportional to the concentration of the test. In the presence of 1 mM GSB-I and GSB-II, the maximum inhibitory efficiency was determined to be 90.6 and 93.8 percent, respectively. According to potentiodynamic polarization tests, the two compounds are effective inhibitors of mixed-type corrosion. The physisorption and chemisorption of both inhibitors followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm on CS surfaces. The biological reactivity of both GSB has been examined, and encouraging results have been obtained as antifungal, antibacterial, and biocidal agents against sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). In addition, using DFT calculations and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation, the effect of GSB-I and GSB-II molecular configuration on corrosion inhibition behavior in acidic environments was investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: AF8c, a lapatinib hybrid quinazoline-based EGFR/HER2 inhibitor, was chosen to scrutinize its antiproliferative activity in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. We found that AF8cinduced apoptosis in CRC cells via diverse mechanisms. In addition to inhibiting the phosphorylation of the ErbB family, AF8c increased the mRNA and protein levels of death receptor 5 (DR5) in vitro and in vivo. In addition, AF8c upregulated several ER stress proteins and the redox-sensitive nuclear respiratory factor 2 alpha subunit (Nrf2) in a p53-dependent manner. We also found that the AF8c-induced increase in the levels of Nrf2, DR5, and apoptosis was diminished by p53 downregulation or knockdown. Furthermore, AF8c showed higher antiproliferative activity than lapatinib in the CRC mouse model in vivo. Therefore, our results suggest AF8c as a highly effective polypharmacological small molecule with an encouraging safety profile, both in vitro and in vivo, for further evaluation as a treatment of CRC. Our team has previously reported a series of quinazoline-based lapatinib hybrids as potent kinase-targeting anticancer agents. Among them, AF8c showed a relatively safe profile in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. In this study, we delineate a novel anticancer activity of AF8c in CRC cells. AF8c mediated p53-dependent apoptosis of CRC cells via the generation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as activation of nuclear respiratory factor 2 alpha subunit (Nrf2) and death receptor 5 (DR5), among others. The silencing of DR5 attenuated the expression levels of Nrf2 and partially inhibited AF8c-induced apoptosis. Additionally, upregulation of Nrf2 by AF8c evoked apoptosis through a decrease in antioxidant levels. Treatment of a CRC mice model with AF8c also resulted in the upregulation of DR5, Nrf2, and CHOP proteins, subsequently leading to a significant decrease in tumor burden. In comparison with lapatinib, AF8c showed higher cellular antiproliferative activity at the tested concentrations in CRC cells and synergized TRAIL effects in CRC cells. Overall, our results suggest that AF8c-induced apoptosis may be associated with DR5/Nrf2 activation through ER stress and ROS generation in CRC cells. These findings indicate that AF8c represents a promising polypharmacological molecule for the treatment of human CRC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Hyperhomocysteinaemia might account for the increased susceptibility to CV diseases in psoriasis patients. Homocysteine metabolism is dependent in part on folate and vitamin B12 so deficiency of these vitamins may lead to hyperhomocysteinaemia. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between homocysteine, folic acid and vitamin B12 levels and psoriasis vulgaris and to evaluate the correlation between homocysteine, folic acid and vitamin B12 levels and the severity of psoriasis vulgaris. Patients and methods: This case control study included 80 subjects who were distributed into two groups; Cases group (Group A): included 50 patients with chronic plaque psoriasis vulgaris, and Control group (Group B): included 30 non psoriatic healthy, age and sex matched, subjects. Results: The mean folic acid level in the psoriasis group was 3.69 (SD 0.96) nmol/l which was statistically significantly lower as compared with the control group (5.67 ± 1.31 nmol/l) (p< 0.001). The mean vitamin B12 level in the psoriasis group was 186.94 (SD 64.90) pmol/l which was statistically significantly lower as compared with the control group (353.73 ± 76.76 pmol/l) (p<0.001). The mean homocysteine level in the psoriasis group was 18.54 (SD 4.18) nmol/mL which was statistically significantly higher as compared with the control group (11.09 ± 1.78 nmol/mL) (p<0.001). Conclusion: hyperhomocysteinaemia, decreased serum folate levels, and decreased serum B12 levels are common in patients with psoriasis. Serum homocysteine level was negatively correlated with serum folate level. No significant correlation was found between psoriasis severity (as measured by psoriasis area and severity index) and serum levels of homocysteine, folic acid, or vitamin B12. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• MBSI was synthesized, and investigated as corrosion inhibitor in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 solution. • Polarization studies indicated that MBSI acted as a mixed-type inhibitor. • Adsorption studies indicated that the inhibitor obeyed Langmuir isotherm model. • The theoretical calculations are correlated well with experimental techniques. Although many different human activities such as the oil and gas sector, mineral production, utilities, transportation, etc. depend on the utilization of steel and its alloys, they are highly susceptible to corrosion, especially in acidic media. Hence, processing entails substantial material expenditures due to metal losses. In this regard, the inhibitory characteristics of the synthetic heterocyclic derivative (3aR,7S,7aS)-4,5,6,7,8,8-hexachloro-1,3-dioxo-1,3,3a,4,7,7a-hexahydro-2H-4,7-methanoisoindol-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide (MBSI) was studied against corrosion of C-steel in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 at 25-55 °C. The structure of the synthesized molecule was confirmed by FTIR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and MS. Weight-loss, potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, electrochemical frequency modulation measurements as well as theoretical analyses were employed in this investigation. The results showed that the investigated MBSI compound functions as an efficient inhibitor with a physical adsorption nature on the surface of carbon steel. MBSI concentration causes the inhibition efficiency to rise, reaching a maximum of 94% for the steel alloy corrosion at 37 × 10−6 M and 25°C. The synthesized compound was suggested to act as a mixed-type inhibitor. SEM surface analysis showed the construction of a protective layer at the carbon steel surface. DFT-based quantum chemical indices provided more insight into the inhibitory mechanism. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were also applied to predict the conformational adsorption change of the inhibitor on the iron surface. In addition, thermodynamic and kinetic parameters were calculated. The experimental results are largely consistent with the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of water footprint (WFP) is providing information related to water resource management, especially for countries that have water scarcity and rely on irrigation to enhance food security. A field experiment was conducted during two winter seasons in 2018, and 2019. The current study sought to evaluate the impacts of various nitrogen levels (1.N1: 120, 2.N2: 150, and 3.N3: 180 kg /fed) on potato production as well as the water footprint and water requirement. Vegetative characteristics, yield parameters, N contents, and climate data were measured. The obtained results are clarified that increasing the nitrogen rate up to 180 kg/fed led to increase the vegetative growth characteristics, yield parameters, and water footprint of potato crop. The most significant vegetative growth values were obtained using a 180 kg/fed nitrogen level followed by 150 kg/fed. The greater marketable tuber yield was recorded at 180 kg/fed with 18117 & 17753 Kg/fed values, followed by 150 kg/fed with 16864 and 16545 Kg/fed values for the first and second seasons respectively. The water footprint of potato in Egypt ranges from 237 to 267.8 for nitrogen levels of 120 kg /fed and 180 kg /fed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most common inflammatory skin diseases worldwide and Staphylococcus aureus colonization and secondary infections occur in the majority of AD patients. Allergic sensitizations against microbial antigens have been discussed as possible trigger factors of AD. Recently, we reported IgE sensitization against fibronectin‐binding protein 1 (FBP1), an essential virulence component in S. aureus, in a subgroup of patients suffering from AD. To expand these findings by investigating delayed‐type immune reactions, the objective of this study was to detect and phenotypically characterize FBP1‐specific T cells as possible trigger factors in AD. Methods: Immunodominant T‐cell epitopes were mapped by proliferation testing of patient‐derived FBP1‐specific T‐cell lines after stimulation with single 15mer peptides, which were derived from different functional domains of the FBP1 sequence. Major histocompatibility complex class II tetramers carrying immunodominant epitopes successfully stained T helper cells in 8 out of 8 HLA‐matched, IgE‐sensitized AD patients. Results: Cytokine profiling of multimer‐sorted cells revealed that predominantly the type 2 cytokines IL‐13 and IL‐4 were secreted by these cells. In contrast, IL‐17, the marker cytokine for response to extracellular pathogens, was scarcely detectable. Conclusions: We demonstrate that FBP1 contains immunodominant peptides that induce a specific pro‐inflammatory T helper cell response with increased Th2 levels that can drive an allergic inflammation in sensitized AD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The main chain of erythropoietin (EPO) consists of 193 amino acids and it has a molecular weight of 34000 Dalton (Da). EPO is a hormone-like molecule that is secreted primarily by renal interstitial cells, with the liver contributing the remaining 10%. Renal tubular or glomerular injury can restrict EPO production and create renal tissue hypoxia, which can then lead to an increase in the production of EPO in the serum. EPO is a humeral factor that enhances red blood cell production by increasing bone marrow cell proliferation and differentiation. Blood flow into peripheral blood arteries can also be boosted by EPO's ability to differentiate stem cells into red blood cells. After being activated by its receptors, to create adult hemoglobin, erythroid cells need to be differentiated and proliferated. EPO aids in the differentiation and proliferation of these cells. Objective: To determine if erythropoietin could be useful in the treatment of renal anemia. Methods: The databases were searched for articles published in English in 3 data bases [PubMed - Google scholar-Egyptian knowledge bank] and Boolean operators (and, or, not) had been used such as [Erythropoietin and Renal Anemia OR EPO] and in peer-reviewed articles between July 2002 and May 2021. Conclusion: Renal anemia patients who receive EPO treatment can have considerable improvements in oxygen levels, immunological function, and so on; An iron overload or blood infection can be prevented by using EPO in transfusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Synthetic pesticides have accumulated in environment causing harm to humans and ecosystems. As a result, the use of biopesticides in agriculture and public health has expanded as a substitute for traditional pesticides. Purpose: To investigate the acute oral toxicity of Beauveria bassiana, on physiological status aspects of male rats. Material and Methods: Metabolic crude (MC), and wettable powder formulation (2.5% WP) from the local isolate of B. bassiana (AUMC 9896) were tested on adult Sprague Dawley (SD) male rats by single oral dose. Results: There was no evidence of death or toxic symptoms in any of the treated groups. In contrast, each product caused a significant increase in the body weight gain and relative liver weights of B. bassiana-exposed male and reduced the brain somatic index with WP only as compared to the control. The studied bioinsecticide also caused a substantial rise in total erythrocyte and absolute differential leucocyte counts, while red blood cell distribution width (RDW) and platelet count (Plt) were decreased significantly. Furthermore, male rats exposed to both types of B. bassiana, aspartate aminotransferases (AST), total protein (TP), albumin (Alb), AST/ALT, triglyceride, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL) were elevated compared to the untreated group, whereas alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, globulin (Glb), Alb/Glb, urea content, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) count fluctuated between increased and decreased. Also, B. bassiana-treated rats had lower serum cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (HDL) values. Conclusion: These results suggest that both treatments have slight effects on complete blood count (CBC) of treated male rats and marked effect on liver function, lipid profile, body weight gain and somatic index of the liver and brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Owing to the advancements in technology along with increased laparoscopic experience's curve, advanced laparoscopic surgeries including distal pancreatectomy can be easily performed with acceptable oncologic results, and decreased mortality and morbidity. We describe our early experience with laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) in the management of pancreatic cystic lesions. Patients and methods We included patients with pancreatic cystic lesions who underwent LDP and followed up in our center between May 2015 and October 2020. The patients were divided into two groups according to the procedure performed: laparoscopic splenic-preservation distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) group and LDP with splenectomy. Results Twenty-seven patients were included of whom 19 patients underwent LSPDP and eight patients underwent LDP with splenectomy. The LSPDP group demonstrated longer operative duration than LDP/splenectomy group, but less estimated blood loss. Moreover, LSPDP had shorter hospital stay and less postoperative complications. The overall morbidity was 18.51% with no mortality, and no recurrence of the lesion was detected in the follow-up period. Discussion LDP is an acceptable modality in management of patients with pancreatic cystic lesions with an acceptable complication rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• AMT and AMH of two Schiff bases were synthesized and confirmed successfully. • Polarisation investigations revealed that both inhibitors were mixed-type inhibitors. • According to adsorption studies, the inhibitors followed the Langmuir isotherm. • The experimental findings and theoretical computations were in agreement. The suitability of the two synthesized hydrazones namely N''-[(4-aminocoumarin-3-yl)methylidene]thiocarbonohydrazide (AMT), and 2-[(4-Aminocoumarin-3-yl)methylidene]hydrazinecarbodithioic acid (AMH) as corrosion inhibitors for N80 carbon steel (N80 CS) metal in acidic hydrochloric solution has been investigated at different concentrations of inhibitors (10–7 to 10–3 M) and different temperatures (298–328 K). The Inhibition efficiency was examined by gravimetric measurements, electrochemical methods supplemented with AFM, SEM-EDX, contact angle measurement, and XRD. The compounds have been characterized using IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectra. It was found that AMT and AMH exhibit maximum inhibition efficiency of 90.52 and 93.28 %, respectively, at 10−3M against N80 CS corrosion in 1.0 M HCl solutions. The adsorption of inhibitors on the N80 CS surface tends to obey the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Potentiodynamic polarization results revealed that AMT and AMH functioned as mixed-type inhibitors. All thermodynamic parameters were estimated and discussed. The combination of density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamic simulations was used to understand the sites in the AMT and AMH molecules where interaction with the N80 CS surface can occur. Results of the biological test revealed the excellent bioactivity of the AMT and AMH compounds, suggesting AMT and AMH are environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitors. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Schiff base derivatives (CSBs) were synthesized and confirmed. • CSBs were investigated as corrosion inhibitors in 1 M HCl solution. • Polarization studies indicated that CSBs acted as a mixed-type inhibitor. • Adsorption studies indicated that the inhibitor obeyed the Langmuir isotherm model. • The theoretical calculations are correlated well with experimental techniques. Iron has many advantages, which makes it a material of great importance on the industrial level, but it is quickly affected by surrounding environmental factors that cause its corrosion. In this context, two new Schiff base cyclohexanamine derivatives (CSBs) were synthesized, characterized, and screened as corrosion inhibitors of C-steel in a 1 M hydrochloric acid solution. Specifically, they are (Z)-N-cyclohexyl-1-phenylethan-1-imine (CSB-1) and (E)-N′-cyclohexyl-N-hydroxybenzimidamide (CSB-2). 1H NMR was used to determine the structures of the new CSB molecules. The inhibition efficacies (%IE) were evaluated by combining theoretical, physical, chemical, electrochemical, and spectroscopic methods. The results confirmed that CSBs were mixed-type inhibitors and that the IE depended linearly on their concentration. The adsorption of these molecules on the metal surface is key to this role. Kinetic and thermodynamic studies indicated that they are physically adsorbed and subject the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Using 0.001 M of inhibitor, the maximum %IEs achieved were 91.1 % for CSB-1 and 94.4 % for CSB-2 , respectively, which confirms tatehat they are promising inhibitors. Surface analysis via atomic force microscopy (AFM) confirmed that the C-steel was covered in a protective layer. Several thermodynamic and kinetic parameters were calculated. DFT and Mullikan charge calculations and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were applied to predict the effectiveness and interactions of new CSBs on the steel surface as well. Theoretical expectations correspond to the practical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urologic complications can still occur following kidney transplantation, sometimes requiring multiple radiological and/or surgical procedures to fully correct the problem. Previously proposed extravesical ureteral reimplantation techniques still carry non-negligible risks of the patient developing urologic complications. About 10 years ago, a new set of modifications to the Lich-Gregoir technique was developed at our center, with the goal of further minimizing the occurrence of urologic complications, and without the need for initial ureteral stent placement. It was believed that an improvement in the surgical technique to minimize the risk of developing urologic complications was possible without the need for stent placement at the time of transplant. In this report, we describe the advantages of this technique (i.e., mobilized bladder, longer spatulation of the ureter, inclusion of bladder mucosa with detrusor muscle layer in the ureteral anastomosis, and use of a right angle clamp in the ureteral orifice to ensure that it does not become stenosed). We also retrospectively report our experience in using this technique among 500 consecutive (prospectively followed) kidney transplant recipients transplanted at our center since 2014. During the first 12mo post-transplant, only 1.4%(7/500) of patients developed a urologic complication; additionally, only 1.0%(5/500) required surgical repair of their original ureteroneocystostomy. Five patients(1.0%) developed a urinary leak, with 3/5 having distal ureteral necrosis, and 1/5 subsequently developing a ureteral stricture. Two other patients developed ureteral stenosis, one due to stricture and one due to ureteral stones. These overall results are excellent when compared with other reports in the literature, especially those in which routine stenting was performed. In summary, we believe that the advantages in using this modified extravesical ureteroneocystostomy technique clearly help in lowering the early post-transplant risk of developing urologic complications. Importantly, these results were achieved without the need for ureteral stent placement at the time of transplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybridization of reported weakly active antiproliferative hit 5-amino-4-pyrimidinol derivative with 2-anilino-4-phenoxypyrimidines suggests a series of 2,5-diamino-4-pyrimidinol derivatives as potential antiproliferative agents. Few compounds belonging to the proposed series were reported as CSF1R/DAPK1 inhibitors as anti-tauopathies. However, the correlation between CSF1R/DAPK1 signalling pathways and cancer progression provides motives to reprofile them against cancer therapy. The compounds were synthesised, characterized, and evaluated against M-NFS-60 cells and a kinase panel which bolstered predictions of their antiproliferative activity and suggested the involvement of diverse molecular targets. Compound 6e, the most potent in the series, showed prominent broad-spectrum antiproliferative activity inhibiting the growth of hematological, NSCLC, colon, CNS, melanoma, ovarian, renal, prostate and breast cancers by 84.1, 52.79, 72.15, 66.34, 66.48, 51.55, 55.95, 61.85, and 60.87%, respectively. Additionally, it elicited an IC50 value of 1.97 µM against M-NFS-60 cells and good GIT absorption with Pe value of 19.0 ± 1.1 × 10−6 cm/s (PAMPA-GIT). Molecular docking study for 6e with CSF1R and DAPK1 was done to help to understand the binding mode with both kinases. Collectively, compound 6e could be a potential lead compound for further development of anticancer therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Intestinal viability is crucial before commencement of any anastomoses or establishment of stomas after resection of the gut for any surgical reason, and depending on the clinical sense and subjective methods alone may result in disastrous results and complications affecting the outcomes of the surgical procedures. There are many techniques available nowadays for assessing bowel viability, but most of them are technically demanding and not usually available in the operating theater, besides the cost of many of them, which may represent another added burden. For all the aforementioned reasons, the wireless pulse oximeter (PO) has emerged as a possible new method which can aid in assessment of bowel viability during surgeries with the advantages of availability, low cost, and simple rapid way of gut viability assessment. Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the capability of the wireless PO in discrimination between viable and nonviable intestine intraoperatively before establishment of stomas or intestinal anastomoses. Study design This was a prospective study that included 40 patients who were evaluated intraoperatively by the wireless PO to assess the viability of the proximal and distal ends of the intestine. The intestinal viability in the first 10 patients was also evaluated by the fluorescein dye in addition to the PO. Here, fluorescein was used as a well-established method to validate the new technique of the PO. All the readings were recorded, and patients were followed up for 2 weeks postoperatively to detect any complications related to intestinal ischemia. Results Three cases were complicated: two cases of failed anastomosis with leakage and the third case was ischemic end colostomy stoma. The mean values of PO readings in the noncomplicated group (37 cases) were 95.65 and 96.32% in the proximal and distal segments, respectively, whereas in the complicated group (three cases), mean values were 89 and 87% in the proximal and distal segments, respectively. Conclusion The PO device is safe, portable, and nonsophisticated, which can be used easily by surgeons in assessment of bowel viability during surgery. It takes less time to assess the intestinal viability and is very cost-effective, as one device can be used in multiple patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and study aims Adequate lymphadenectomy is crucial to ensure accuracy in staging and treatment of colorectal cancer. Endoscopic preoperative tattooing to mark the location of the tumor has recently been proposed to promote the recovery of lymph nodes in colorectal specimens. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the role of preoperative endoscopic tumor tattooing in improving the retrieval of lymph nodes in colorectal resections. Patients and methods The study was conducted on 100 candidates randomized into two groups. The first group included 50 patients who were injected with black eye dye by colonoscopy done 3–10 days before surgery (tattooed group), and the 50 other patients in the second group (control group) did not have preoperative tattooing. All patients underwent the standard resection under National Comprehensive Cancer Network Colorectal Cancers Guideline. Results The tattooed group showed higher number of lymph nodes retrieved compared with the control group in colon cases and rectum cases. In eight cases, among the patients included in our study, extra-anatomical lymph nodes (outside the standard resection margins) were detected stained. Of these eight cases, two showed malignant deposits. Conclusion Preoperative endoscopic tattooing of colorectal cancers is a safe and easy technique, which proved to have a benefit in improving lymph node retrieval for resected specimens of colorectal cancers either in obese or nonobese patients and also whether they had received or not a preoperative neoadjuvant therapy. There is a connection between lymphatics draining different parts of the colon, as proved by the presence of tattooed lymph nodes outside the standard resection margins. Its clinical significance needs more studies on a larger sample size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to compare ventral mesh rectopexy (VMR) and pelvic organ prolapse suspension surgery (POPS) in management of patients presenting with rectal prolapse. Methods: Our study was a prospective cohort trial in which 120 female patients with complete rectal prolapse were included, 60 patients had had VMR and the other 60 had had POPS as a surgical management for complete rectal prolapse. Results had been compared 6 months postoperatively regarding operative time, postoperative pain, hospital stay, complications of surgery including recurrence of the rectal prolapse, the efficacy of each operation in treatment of rectal prolapse and associated symptoms. Results: The patients were assessed 6 months postoperatively. There was no significant statistical difference regarding hospital stay and postoperative pain. Operative time was significantly shorter in POPS in comparison with VMR (P value < 0.05). VMR showed slight improvement regarding constipation and continence scores; however, this was statistically significant. VMR showed less complications compared to POPS. Complications with rectopexy happened only with 4 patients compared to 24 patients in POPS groups, 2 cases of recurrence in rectopexy group compared to 6 cases of recurrence in POPS. Conclusion: POPS is comparable to VMR in management of rectal prolapse and in improving the ODS symptoms. Thus, POPS can be used as easier, faster option to treat rectal prolapse in selected patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of the pilonidal sinuses to spread laterally into both gluteal regions, governed by the skin vulnerability, raises the theoretical probability of a similar skin characteristic of the donor site from which most of the flaps used for repair of the PNS are taken. The present study aimed at a clinical outcome and histologic study of the use of paraspinal transposition flap for treatment of recurrent pilonidal sinus disease. This was a prospective clinical study that enrolled all patients who presented to our General Surgery Clinic, Kasralainy Hospital, Cairo University, with recurrent pilonidal sinus in the period from July 2007 till August 2017. They underwent excision of their pilonidal sinus and the use of paraspinal transposition flap to cover the defect. Histologic studies were done for the skin from both areas. This study ended up with 84 adult patients with recurrent pilonidal disease. The follow-up period ranged from 9 to 108 months (mean 70.45 months). All the patients reported pain scores from 0 to 3 during the first postoperative week. Incidence of early minor complications including mild wound dehiscence, sloughing at the tip of the flap, wound infection, and edema occurred in 21 patients (25%). Three patients developed recurrence (3.57%). Histological examination revealed deep pits lined by stratified squamous epithelium (SSE) at the macroscopic healthy skin at the edge of resection. Those changes were absent in biopsies from the flap skin. The paraspinal flap has good results in management of recurrent pilonidal disease. Also, histological findings suggest that the skin over both glutei is as vulnerable as the skin of the excised sinus which is different from the skin over the lower back. This explains that use of that skin to cover the defect is more prone to develop recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The endometrium plays an important role in implantation of good quality embryos in ART. Many studies have proved the negative impact of intra uterine pathologies on reproductive outcome whether spontaneous pregnancy or ART, because uterine anomalies may be associated with many obstetric complications such as miscarriage, preterm birth, premature rupture of membrane, malpresentation, postpartum bleeding and retained placenta. Aim of the work: This study aims to assess the prevalence of abnormal hysteroscopic findings among infertile women undergoing ART at Ain Shams Maternity University Hospital over the period from January 2007 to January 2017. Patients and Methods: This descriptive retrospective study was carried out on infertile couples planned for ART who were sent to ECDU for hysteroscopy in Early Cancer Detection Unit (ECDU), Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital. Case reports From January 2007 to January 2017 were reviewed. Results: The most prevalent congenital abnormality was endometrial polyp (18.4%) followed by uterine septum (6.9%). Conclusion: This study concluded that the most common uterine abnormality was endometrial polyp (18.4%), followed by uterine septum in 6.9% of patients. Also, thick endometrium was very common with a prevalence of 12.9%. Therefore, based on this high prevalence of abnormalities, this study is in agreement with the opinion that all women should be offered hysteroscopy, even if they have normal vaginal ultrasound and hysterosalpingography, because this is supposed to increase the detection rate of minor abnormalities, which theoretically will improve the reproductive outcome. Still, further interventional randomized controlled trials (RCT) are needed to verify the positive impact of routine use of hysteroscopy prior to ART. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Restorative surgery for rectal cancer is usually criticized by its functional outcomes. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy "taeniectomy" pouch in comparison with transverse coloplasty pouch.Study design: This was a prospective controlled study. Most patients who were candidate for low rectal resection presented to colorectal unit at Cairo university hospitals during the period from February 2013 to August 2016 were divided into two groups. The total number of patients enrolled in the study was 180 patients. Ninety patients were subjected to low rectal resection with the transverse coloplasty pouch, and 90 patients were subjected to low rectal resection with the newly described taeniectomy pouch. Safety and feasibility of both techniques were assessed about leakage, operative time, difficulty in evacuation, incontinence, number of daily motions and postoperative urgency. Both groups were assessed clinically, by means of defecography and anorectal manometry.Results: There was no significant statistical difference between taeniectomy and transverse coloplasty regarding postoperative leakage (P value = 0.988), postoperative mortality (P value = 0.99) and functional outcomes including number of motions per day (P value was 0.403 at 3 months and 0.361 at 12 months), urgency (P value was 0.688), continence grade (P value was 0.320 and 0.683 in 3 and 12 months, respectively) and manometric findings. However, taeniectomy is statistically significant better in terms of operative time (P value = 0.001).Conclusions: Taeniectomy is a newly described, technically easier technique for pouch formation after low rectal resection that can be used as a safe and effective alternative for the widely used transverse coloplasty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Kinase irregularity has been correlated with several complex neurodegenerative tauopathies. Development of selective inhibitors of these kinases might afford promising anti-tauopathy therapies. While DAPK1 inhibitors halt the formation of tau aggregates and counteract neuronal death, CSF1R inhibitors could alleviate the tauopathies-associated neuroinflammation. Herein, we report the design, synthesis, biological evaluation, mechanistic study, and molecular docking study of novel CSF1R/DAPK1 dual inhibitors as multifunctional molecules inhibiting the formation of tau aggregates and neuroinflammation. Compound 3l , the most potent DAPK1 inhibitor in the in vitro kinase assay (IC 50 = 1.25 μM) was the most effective tau aggregates formation inhibitor in the cellular assay (IC 50 = 5.0 μM). Also, compound 3l elicited potent inhibition of CSF1R in the in vitro kinase assay (IC 50 = 0.15 μM) and promising inhibition of nitric oxide production in LPS-induced BV-2 cells (55% inhibition at 10 μM concentration). Kinase profiling and hERG binding assay anticipated the absence of off-target toxicities while the PAMPA-BBB assay predicted potentially high BBB permeability. The mechanistic study and selectivity profile suggest compound 3l as a non-ATP-competitive DAPK1 inhibitor and an ATP-competitive CSF1R inhibitor while the in silico calculations illustrated binding of compound 3l to the substrate-binding site of DAPK1. Hence, compound 3l might act as a protein-protein interaction inhibitor by hindering DAPK1 kinase reaction through preventing the binding of DAPK1 substrates. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Multifunctional DAPK1 and CSF1R inhibitors for targeting tauopathies. • 3l shows good potency and excellent affinity and within-family selectivity for both kinases. • Mechanistic study showed 3l as non-ATP-competitive DAPK1 inhibitor and ATP-competitive CSF1R inhibitor. • 3l has tau aggregation inhibition and anti-neuroinflammatory activity in cellular assays. • hERG binding and PAMPA assays revealed 3l as a cardiosafe and has a high membrane penetration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Blue and green emissive cationic thiazole sensors were constructed. • The sensors were successfully applied in real samples with acceptable results. • Portable and low-cost paper is used to visually detect as low as 5 nM of Cr(IV). • The feasibility of using a smartphone to determine Cr(VI) has been established. Two cationic Schiff base sensors; N -(3-(((4 E)-2-(2-((2-hydroxynaphthalen-1-yl)methylene) hydrazineyl)thiazol-4(5 H)-ylidene)amino)propyl)- N , N -dimethyloctan-1-aminiumbromide (N2Q) and N -(3- (((E)-2-(2-((E)-(2-chloro-7-ethoxyquinolin-3-yl)methylene)hydrazineyl)thiazol-4(5 H)-ylidene)amino)propyl)- N , N -dimethyloctan-1-aminium bromide (N3Q) were synthesized and characterized to detect Cr (VI) in the wastewater quite quickly, economically, and accurately. The sensors showed a superior selectivity to Cr (Ⅵ) oxyanions among other anions and cations and the quenching efficiency reached 98% at 125 µM. The fluorescence of the sensors is quenched by Cr (VI) oxyanions via electron transfer, electrostatic, and hydrogen bonding mechanisms as confirmed by optical spectra, FT-IR, Zeta potential, and DFT calculations. The N2Q sensor could lower the detection limits to 34 nM for CrO 4 2- and 13 nM for Cr 2 O 7 2-, with linear detection ranges of 0.0005–1025 nM. At the same time, the N3Q sensor had a good linear range of 5–125 µM and 0.0005–60 µM with detection limits of 18 and 11 nM for CrO 4 2- and Cr 2 O 7 2-, respectively. Furthermore, Cr (VI) oxyanions are detected in real samples, with recoveries ranging from 85.56 to 101%. More interestingly, portable, low-cost, and convenient-to-use paper devices are successfully used to visually detect Cr (VI) oxyanions at levels as low as 5 nM. The feasibility of using a smartphone readout device to determine Cr (VI) oxyanions has been established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pubic hair grooming involves the partial or complete removal of pubic hair, and it is a common practice among men and women. Grooming is more prevalent in women, who employ various methods such as shaving, waxing and laser removal. However, it is associated with variable rates of post-grooming adverse outcomes including lacerations and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review and meta-analysis comparing women's sexual health outcomes between those who groom and those who don't. Methods: We followed the MOOSE guidelines and conducted a computerized-based search using (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Ovid Medline), till June 20th, 2022, for eligible studies using the relevant keywords; (pubic hair grooming) OR (pubic hair removal OR Genital hairless OR Bikini hair removal OR pubic hair depilation). Cross-sectional studies included which compared grooming practices among women in terms of motivation and health outcomes. Women's satisfaction and incidence of STIs were pooled as standardized mean difference (SMD) and odds ratio (OR) respectively. Results: Twenty-Two cross-sectional studies were included in our review with 73,091 participant.The odds of having gram-negative gonorrheal and chlamydial infection in Pubic hair groomers were found to be statistically significant (OR = 1.55, 95% CI [1.31, 1.84], P < 0.001) (OR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.32, 1.85], P < 0.001] respectively. There was no difference between groomer and non-groomer women regarding viral infections such as genital herpes (OR = 1.40, 95% CI [0.56, 3.50], P = 0.47) and Condyloma acuminata (OR = 1.75, 95% CI [0.51, 6.01], P = 0.37). The most common grooming side effect is genital itching (prevalence = 26.9%, P < 0.001). Non-electrical razor (prevalence = 69.3%, P < 0.001) is the most common grooming method. White women (prevalence = 80.2%, P < 0.001) remove pubic hair more frequently compared to black women (prevalence = 12.2%, P < 0.001). Women practice complete grooming (50.3%, P < 0.001) of the pubic hair more frequently than partial grooming (33.1%, P < 0.001). There are no differences in women's satisfaction between the two groups (SMD = 0.12, 95% CI [-0.16, 0.40], P = 0.39). Conclusion: This review aligns with previous observational studies regarding sexual health outcomes of pubic hair grooming. There is a need to raise awareness among women regarding the safe practice of pubic hair grooming, emphasizing the clarification of hazards and benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pubic hair grooming involves the partial or complete removal of pubic hair, and it is a common practice among men and women. Grooming is more prevalent in women, who employ various methods such as shaving, waxing and laser removal. However, it is associated with variable rates of post-grooming adverse outcomes including lacerations and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review and meta-analysis comparing women's sexual health outcomes between those who groom and those who don't. Methods: We followed the MOOSE guidelines and conducted a computerized-based search using (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Ovid Medline), till June 20th, 2022, for eligible studies using the relevant keywords; (pubic hair grooming) OR (pubic hair removal OR Genital hairless OR Bikini hair removal OR pubic hair depilation). Cross-sectional studies included which compared grooming practices among women in terms of motivation and health outcomes. Women's satisfaction and incidence of STIs were pooled as standardized mean difference (SMD) and odds ratio (OR) respectively. Results: Twenty-Two cross-sectional studies were included in our review with 73,091 participant.The odds of having gram-negative gonorrheal and chlamydial infection in Pubic hair groomers were found to be statistically significant (OR = 1.55, 95% CI [1.31, 1.84], P < 0.001) (OR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.32, 1.85], P < 0.001] respectively. There was no difference between groomer and non-groomer women regarding viral infections such as genital herpes (OR = 1.40, 95% CI [0.56, 3.50], P = 0.47) and Condyloma acuminata (OR = 1.75, 95% CI [0.51, 6.01], P = 0.37). The most common grooming side effect is genital itching (prevalence = 26.9%, P < 0.001). Non-electrical razor (prevalence = 69.3%, P < 0.001) is the most common grooming method. White women (prevalence = 80.2%, P < 0.001) remove pubic hair more frequently compared to black women (prevalence = 12.2%, P < 0.001). Women practice complete grooming (50.3%, P < 0.001) of the pubic hair more frequently than partial grooming (33.1%, P < 0.001). There are no differences in women's satisfaction between the two groups (SMD = 0.12, 95% CI [-0.16, 0.40], P = 0.39). Conclusion: This review aligns with previous observational studies regarding sexual health outcomes of pubic hair grooming. There is a need to raise awareness among women regarding the safe practice of pubic hair grooming, emphasizing the clarification of hazards and benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study concentrated on producing anticorrosive coating depending on alkyd resin blended with polyaniline-carbon allotropes composites as filler. Polyaniline (PANI) and its composites were produced by doping of PANI with the carbon allotropes (graphene and multi-walled carbon nanotubes) and carbon-oxide allotropes (graphene oxide and multi-walled carbon nanotubes oxide) in different ratios through in situ chemical polymerization. The morphology of PANI and its composites were examined by transmission electron microscope (TEM), which proved that PANI composites appeared as a shell layer in core/shell structure with various overlay thickness depending on the adsorption type for polyaniline. The performance of the prepared coatings in cabinet salt agrees with electrical conductivity values where the best PANI/composite in conductivity value is the most efficient as an anti-corrosive coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study is to develop and evaluate a sprinkler irrigation system based on its design criteria to minimize friction loss, pressure head variation, and specific energy and maximize water uniformity distribution. The system was developed from single inlet open lateral (SIOL) to double inlet closed lateral (DICL). Experiments were conducted to study two different parameters (lateral length and irrigation water inlet method to lateral line) affecting the performance of the developed system. The system p.erformance was evaluated in terms of water distribution uniformity, coefficient of uniformity, pressure head variation and specific energy. It was concluded that pressure head variation and specific energy were significantly decreased while water distribution uniformity was improved with DICL compared to SIOL at all lateral lengths. The lateral length of l 65m with DICL was recommended to be used as they achieved acceptable distribution uniformity, coefficient of uniformity and pressure head variation values which were 75%, 81% and 18%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tyrosine kinases including LCK and FMS are involved in inflammatory disorders as well as many types of cancer. Our team has designed and synthesized thirty novel pyrimidine based inhibitors targeting LCK, classified into four different series (amides, ureas, imines (Schiff base) and benzylamines). Twelve of them showed nanomolar IC 50 values. Compound 7g showed excellent selectivity profile and was selectively potent over FMS kinase (IC 50 value of 4.6 nM). Molecular docking study was performed to help us rationalize the obtained results and predict the possible binding mode for our compounds in both LCK and FMS. Based on the obtained biological assay data and modelling results, a detailed SAR study was discussed. As a further testing regarding the anti-inflammatory effect of the new compounds, in vitro cellular assay over RAW 264.7 macrophages was performed. Compound 7g exhibited excellent anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, we report the design of novel phenoxypyrimidine derivatives as potent and selective LCK inhibitors and the discovery of 7g as potent and selective FMS/LCK dual inhibitor for the potential application in inflammatory disorders including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strong restrictions on emissions from marine power plants will probably be adopted in the near future. One of the measures which can be considered to reduce exhaust gases emissions is the use of alternative fuels. Synthesis gases are considered competitive renewable gaseous fuels which can be used in marine gas turbines for both propulsion and electric power generation on ships. The paper analyses combustion and emission characteristics of syngas fuel in marine gas turbines. Syngas fuel is burned in a gas turbine can combustor. The gas turbine can combustor with swirl is designed to burn the fuel efficiently and reduce the emissions. The analysis is performed numerically using the computational fluid dynamics code ANSYS FLUENT. Different operating conditions are considered within the numerical runs. The obtained numerical results are compared with experimental data and satisfactory agreement is obtained. The effect of syngas fuel composition and the swirl number values on temperature contours, and exhaust gas species concentrations are presented in this paper. The results show an increase of peak flame temperature for the syngas compared to natural gas fuel combustion at the same operating conditions while the NO emission becomes lower. In addition, lower CO2 emissions and increased CO emissions at the combustor exit are obtained for the syngas, compared to the natural gas fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modification of multi-walled carbon nanotubes surface (MWCNT) using the mixture of $${{{\rm HNO}}_{3}/{{\rm H}}_{2}{{\rm SO}}_{4}}$$ is widely employed for MWCNT surface oxidation, but it also leads to shortening and thinning of the CNT layers causing fragmentation. The carbonaceous fragments had adsorbed on the surface is not removed from the sample in conventional treatments; however, the addition of NaOH successfully cleans the oxidized material. In this article, MWCNT was functionalized using $${{{\rm HNO}}_{3}/{{\rm H}}_{2}{{\rm SO}}_{4}}$$ as oxidizing agent and evaluate the impact of using high and low concentrations of NaOH to purify CNT oxide. The presence of oxidized groups as hydroxyl and carboxyl has been demonstrated by FTIR. The thermal stability of MWCNT and MWCNT-O after and before purification was studied by TGA, and the degree of its crystallinity was examined by XRD. The defect degree occurs during the oxidation process was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. TEM images showed the presence and the absence of wrinkles and the adsorbed carbonaceous fragments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A new series of EGFR kinase inhibitors was designed and synthesized. • Compounds 4a, 4f, 4 g, and 4 l showed potent cytotoxicity against melanoma, colon, and blood cancers. • 4a showed higher potency than lapatinib against melanoma, colon, and blood cancers. • 4a showed selective inhibitory activity against EGFR against thirty kinases panel. • 4a and lapatinib share the same binding mode inside ATP-pocket of EGFR kinase. Cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases harvesting millions of lives every year globally, which mandates the development of new therapies. In this report, we designed and synthesized a novel series of compounds based on the structure of lapatinib and AF8c, a compound we developed and reported previously, to target EGFR kinase. The series was assayed against a panel of 60 cancer cell lines at the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Compounds 4a , 4f , 4 g , and 4 l showed high efficacy against melanoma, colon, and blood cancers, with 4a being the most effective. The evaluation of the potency of 4a against the 60 cell lines in a five-dose assay revealed a significant potency compared to lapatinib against melanoma, colon, and blood cancers. In vitro enzyme assay over 30 kinases showed significant potency against EGFR and high selectivity to EGFR among the tested kinases. A molecular modeling study of 4a and lapatinib inside the pockets of EGFR revealed that both compounds bind strongly inside the ATP-binding pocket of the EGFR kinase domain. Therefore, we present 4a as a novel EGFR kinase inhibitor with potent in vitro cellular activity against diverse types of cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]