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Background: Milk clotting enzymes, essential for milk coagulation in cheese production, are obtained from the stomach of young ruminants, an expensive and limited source. This study was accomplished by finding a suitable alternative. Bacterial isolates recovered from honey were screened for milk clotting enzyme activity. and further, by immobilization of the microorganisms to enhance stability and facilitate their repeated use. Result: The most effective enzyme was produced by a microbe identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens based on 16 S rRNA sequencing. The cells were encapsulated in Ca2+ alginate beads. These beads retained complete enzyme production after being used five times. Glucose and Soybean were selected as the most favorable carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. The optimum temperature for activity was 35 ℃ for both free and immobilized cells but as the temperature was increased to 55 °C and above, the encapsulated form retained more activity than the free cells. The pH optimum shifted from 6.5 to 7 for the free cells to 7–7.5 for the immobilized cells. The immobilization process decreased the activation energy for enzyme production and activity, prolonged the enzyme half-life, and increased the deactivation energy. Enzyme produced by immobilized cells generated a more compact cheese. Conclusions: The finding of this study was to identify a less expensive source of milk-clotting enzymes and confirm the success of cell immobilization in improving cell rigidity and stability. Also, immobilization of this B. amyloliquefaciens strain offers an enzyme source of value for industrial production of cheese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic species have been known for their toxic impact on human. Therefore, removal of such pollutant requires efficient and effective removal methodology from polluted water. In this study, bismuthene quantum dots (Bi-ene-QDs) were fabricated by a green and facile one pot-hydrothermal conversion reaction of Bi(NO3)3·5H2O. Bi-ene-QDs exhibited semi-spherical crystalline providing 6.0 nm 157.78 m2/g. Consequently, As(V) capturing by Bi-ene-QDs revealed optimum practical conditions at pH 3, interaction duration time 40 min and 10 mg Bi-ene-QDs dosage. The interaction of As(V) ions with Bi-ene-QDs were confirmed by the appearance of As-O stretching vibration. Moreover, Bi-ene-QDs achieved excellent adsorptive capture percentages of Arsenic ions from sea, tap and wastewater providing 94.61, 95.21 and 94.38% from contaminated samples with 5 mg L−1 Arsenic ions. Therefore, Bi-ene-QDs can be categorized as an unprecedented and efficient nanosorbent for the successful removal of Arsenic ions pollution from various wastewater matrices with > 90.0% efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autonomous truck platoons hold the potential for substantial economic and environmental advantages. However, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the interactions between drivers and different configurations of truck platoons at waving segments. This study aims to contribute to the literature by achieving three primary objectives: (1) examine the effects of various truck platoon configurations on merging and diverging behaviors [time to merge (TTM) and time to diverge (TTD)]; (2) explore the impact of individual characteristics such as age, gender, education level, and driving experience on TTM and TTD; and (3) investigate the decision-making associated with these maneuvers (merging or diverging in front of the platoon, behind the platoon or cut in through the platoon). A driving simulator study was conducted with 85 participants across 12 distinct scenarios, considering variations in platoon size, intraplatoon spacing, and platoon lane-change behavior. Several statistical methods were employed, including ANOVA, the Cox proportional hazards model, and machine-learning techniques, to analyze the factors impacting TTM and TTD. The results revealed that increasing the headway distances between trucks in a platoon to 13.72 m (45 ft) or 18.29 m (60 ft) substantially decreased TTM, enhancing traffic flow. Furthermore, splitting the truck platoon between two lanes of the freeway before the merging point significantly influenced other drivers' merging decisions. When half of the trucks in a platoon switched to the left lane before the merging point, a larger proportion of participants chose to merge ahead of the platoon. Age, gender, education level, and self-assessment of driving skills were all found to significantly influence merging and diverging behaviors. Drivers with higher degrees took longer to merge, whereas older, male, and experienced drivers merged faster. The lowest average TTD was observed when half the platoon switched to the left lane before the diverging point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of Internet-of-Things (IoT)-based telemedicine systems has ushered in a new era of technology facilitating early diagnosis and prevention for distant patients. This is particularly crucial for severe illnesses such as Alzheimer's disease, encompassing memory loss and cognitive dysfunction that significantly impairs daily life, necessitating immediate medical attention. The surge in data from intelligent systems, sourced from diverse locations, has heightened complexity and diminished diagnostic accuracy. In response, this study proposes an innovative distributed learning-based classification model, leveraging a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) classifier. This model proficiently manages clinical data images from disparate sources, ensuring disease classification with high accuracy. The research introduces a novel system designed for automated Alzheimer's disease detection and healthcare delivery. Comprising two subsystems, one dedicated to Alzheimer's diagnosis with an impressive 94.91% accuracy using CNN, and another for healthcare treatment, delivering excellent results. Notably, the system is adaptable to various diseases post-training. The study emphasizes the model's robust performance, achieving an outstanding 94.91% accuracy after 200 training epochs, with a loss of 0.1158, and a validation accuracy of 96.60% with a loss of 0.0922 at training without noise and loss: 0.2938 - Accuracy: 0.8713 - val_loss: 0.2387 - val_accuracy: 0.9069 at CNN with noise. Precision, recall, and F1 scores are comprehensively presented in a classification report, underscoring the system's effectiveness in categorizing Mild Demented and Non-Demented cases. While acknowledging room for further enhancements, this study introduces a promising avenue for telemedicine systems. It significantly impacts the early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related medical conditions, thereby advancing the healthcare sector and improving patients' quality of life. The inclusion of these quantitative results enhances the abstract's appeal to readers, providing a clearer understanding of the study's outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Adiponectin (ADN) is related to insulin resistance and cardiovascular disorders risks. It is negatively controlled in obese cases among diabetes mellitus type 1 (DMT1) patients. The current study evaluates ADN levels in early-aged children 9–12 years old of obese and non-obese cases (DMT1). Methods: Across-sectional study among children aged 9–11 years old, was conducted during the year 2023 within two groups. First was a diabetic children DMT1 group excluding diabetic cases with complications. Second was a healthy children’s control group. Two groups were subdivided into two subgroups, obese and non-obese (n = 6 for each subgroup). ADN concentrations were measured in DMT1 cases related to weight and body mass index among treated and non-treated with insulin-therapy compared to in vitro diabetic rats. Adult albino male rats enrolled in a control group, non-treated diabetic, and insulin-treated diabetic rats. Statistical analysis-based measuring means and standard deviation for each group and comparing them with the student t-test. Results: Significantly increased plasma AND levels were detected in DMT1 patients compared to non-diabetic cases (P < 0.001). AND levels were decreased in obese rather than non-obese cases of control or diabetic cases (P < 0.001). Data shows significantly increased plasma AND levels in experimental rats, induced with diabetes (with or without insulin treatment) compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Plasma ADN levels were significantly reduced in obese subjects’ diabetics or non-diabetics. It may refer to insulin resistance or mechanisms that prevent further weight gain by decreasing insulin sensitivity and increasing energy expenditure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was designed to explore the association between the immunolocalization of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and S100 proteins within the efferent ductules (ED) from one side, and the sexual maturity and seasonality from the other side. For each season, tissue specimens were obtained from 7 adult and 7 juvenile, clinically healthy male dromedaries. Specimens were investigated by the standard immunohistochemical procedures. The immunohistochemical findings displayed that the pattern of expression was similar for both proteins, either in adults or in juveniles. Expression was significantly higher in adults during season of sexual activity (winter), fairly reduced during periods of transition from activity to inactivity (spring) or from inactivity to activity (autumn) and reaches its lowest magnitude during season of sexual inactivity (summer). On the other hand, a moderate immunoreactivity of both proteins in ED from juvenile male camels was nearly uniform throughout the year. The immunoreactivity for both α-SMA (smooth muscle cells in ductular and vascular walls) and S100 (ductular ciliated cells), was evident during periods of sexual activity. It can be concluded that the immunoreactivity is androgen- dependent and positively correlated with both of sexual activity and maturity, suggesting a crucial role of both α-SMA and S100 proteins in the regulation of the diverse functions of the ED in male dromedaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the technical success and outcomes of renal biopsies performed under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using a closed-bore, 1.5-Tesla MRI unit. Materials and methods: We retrospectively reviewed our institutional biopsy database and included 150 consecutive MRI-guided biopsies for renal masses between November 2007 and March 2020. We recorded age, sex, BMI, tumor characteristics, RENAL nephrometry score, MRI scan sequence, biopsy technique, complications, diagnostic yield, pathologic outcome, and follow-up imaging. Univariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between different parameters and the development of complications. McNemar's test was used to assess the association between paired diagnostic yield measurements for fine-needle aspiration and core samples. Results: A total of 150 biopsies for 150 lesions were performed in 150 patients. The median tumor size was 2.7 cm. The median BMI was 28.3. The lesions were solid, partially necrotic/cystic, and predominantly cystic in 137, eight, and five patients, respectively. Image guidance using fat saturation steady-state free precession sequence was recorded in 95% of the biopsy procedures. Samples were obtained using both fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and cores in 99 patients (66%), cores only in 40 (26%), and FNA only in three (2%). Tissue sampling was diagnostic in 144 (96%) lesions. No major complication developed following any of the biopsy procedures. The median follow-up imaging duration was 8 years and none of the patients developed biopsy-related long-term complication or tumor seeding. Conclusions: MRI-guided renal biopsy is safe and effective, with high diagnostic yield and no major complications. Clinical relevance statement: Image-guided renal biopsy is safe and effective, and should be included in the management algorithm of patients with renal masses. Core biopsy is recommended. Key Points: • MRI-guided biopsy is a safe and effective technique for sampling of renal lesions. • MRI-guided biopsy has high diagnostic yield with no major complications. • Percutaneous image-guided biopsy plays a key role in the management of patients with renal masses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe elbow is presented in pressurized tubular structures as a connecting element, generally subjected to bending moments either out-of-plane or in-plane, in closure or opening. Another mode of bending moment that can also occur in these tubular structures is the combined bending moment between out-of-plane and in-plane in closure, or out-of-plane and in-plane in opening. In this work, to better present the potential severity caused by this loading mode, an elbow structure attached by straight tubular sections made of X60 steel is analyzed and its damage under this combined bending moment with orientations between the plane and out-of-plane of the structure is discussed. A reinforcement proposal will be made in the second part of this work. Indeed, the structure is pretreated thermally at the elbow, resulting in a graded structure along the thickness with two different material constituents: the base metal and the thermally affected zone (HAZ). Based on the concept of Functionally Graded Materials (FGM), the gradation is by volume fraction between the base metal and the HAZ, following a power law function of a volume fraction index (n). This graded property is introduced along the thickness by finite element layers. The elastic-plastic behavior of the HAZ-base metal mixture is modeled using the Voce model and the Von Mises equivalent stress flow theory. Using the XFEM technique(extended finite element method), the damage of the pressurized and thermally treated structure under a combined out-of-plane bending moment shows that these parameters condition the response and the level of damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We aimed to investigate the neuromuscular contributions to enhanced fatigue resistance with carbohydrate (CHO) ingestion and to identify whether fatigue is associated with changes in interstitial glucose levels assessed using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Methods: Twelve healthy participants (six males, six females) performed isokinetic single-leg knee extensions (90°·s-1) at 20% of the maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) torque until MVC torque reached 60% of its initial value (i.e., task failure). Central and peripheral fatigue were evaluated every 15 min during the fatigue task using the interpolated twitch technique and electrically evoked torque. Using a single-blinded crossover design, participants ingested CHO (85 g sucrose per hour), or a placebo (PLA), at regular intervals during the fatigue task. Minute-by-minute interstitial glucose levels measured via CGMand whole blood glucose readings were obtained intermittently during the fatiguing task. Results: CHO ingestion increased time to task failure over PLA (113 ± 69 vs 81 ± 49min, mean±SD; P < 0.001) and was associated with higher glycemia asmeasured byCGM(106 ± 18 vs 88 ± 10mg·dL-1, P<0.001) and whole blood glucose sampling (104 ± 17 vs 89 ± 10 mg·dL-1,P<0.001). When assessing the values in the CHO condition at a similar time point to those at task failure in the PLA condition (i.e., ~81 min), MVC torque, percentage voluntary activation, and 10 Hz torque were all better preserved in the CHO versus PLA condition (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Exogenous CHO intakemitigates neuromuscular fatigue at both the central and peripheral levels by raising glucose concentrations rather than by preventing hypoglycemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment guidelines for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) vary by several factors including pathological stage, patient candidacy, and goal of treatment. With many therapeutics and even more combinations available in the NSCLC clinician's toolkit, a multitude of questions remain unanswered vis-a-vis treatment optimization. While some studies have begun exploring the interplay among the many pillars of NSCLC treatment—surgical resection, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy—the vast number of combinations and permutations of different therapy modalities in addition to the modulation of each constituent therapy leaves much to be desired in a field that is otherwise rapidly evolving. Given NSCLC's high incidence and lethality, the experimentation of synergistic benefits that combinatorial treatment may confer presents a ripe target for advancement and increased understanding without the cost and burden of novel drug development. This review introduces, synthesizes, and compares prominent NSCLC therapies, placing emphasis on the interplay among types of therapies and the synergistic benefits some combinatorial therapies have demonstrated over the past several years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We reported herein the synthesis, characterization of hybrid conjugates composed of phthalimide (Phth) and acridine-1,8-diones (Acr) for optical and medical applications. For the synthetic procedure, a three-step synthetic strategy has been utilized. The optical properties of the examined 1,8-acridinedione–phthalimide connected molecules (AcrPhth 1–5) have been examined utilizing various spectroscopic techniques, e.g., steady-state absorption and fluorescence, and time-correlated single photon counting. The steady-state absorption studies showed that AcrPhth 1–5 absorbs the light in the UV and visible region. The fluorescence studies of AcrPhth 1–5 exhibited significant fluorescence quenching compared to the acridinedione control compounds (Acr 1–5) suggesting the occurrence of electron-transfer reactions from the electron donating acridinedione moiety (Acr) to the electron accepting phthalimide moiety (Phth). The rate and efficiency of the electron-transfer reactions were determined from the fluorescence lifetime measurements indicating the fast electron-transfer processes of the covalently connected AcrPhth 1–5 conjugates. Computational studies supported the intramolecular electron-transfer reaction of AcrPhth conjugates using ab initio B3LYP/6-311G methods. In the optimized structures, the HOMO was found to be entirely located on the Acr entity, while the LUMO was found to be entirely on the Phth entity. Further, the synthesized compounds were tested as photosensitizers for generating the singlet oxygen species, which is a key factor in the photodynamic therapy (PDT) applications. The nanosecond laser flash measurements enable us to detect the triplet-excited states of examined Acr and AcrPhth conjugates, determining the triplet quantum yields, and direct detecting the singlet oxygen in an accurate way. From this observation, the singlet quantum yields were found to be in the range of 0.12–0.27 (for Acr 1–5) and 0.07–0.19 (for AcrPhth 1–5 conjugates). The molecular docking studies revealed that compound AcrPhth 2 exhibited high binding affinity with for key genes (p53, TOP2B, p38, and EGFR) suggesting its potential as a targeted anticancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between the protozoan communities and environmental variables was studied in the Nile River to evaluate their potential as water quality indicators. Protozoans were sampled monthly at six sampling sites in the Nile's Damietta Branch across a spatial gradient of environmental conditions during a 1-year cycle (February 2016–January 2017). The Protozoa community was comprised of 54 species belonging to six main heterotrophic Protozoa phyla. The abundance (average, 1089 ± 576.18 individuals L−1) and biomass (average, 86.60 ± 106.13 μg L−1) were comparable between sites. Ciliates comprised the majority of protozoan species richness (30 species), abundance (79.72%), and biomass (82.90%). Cluster analysis resulted in the distribution of protozoan species into three groups, with the most dominant species being the omnivorous ciliate Paradileptus elephantinus. Aluminium, fluoride, and turbidity negatively affected abundance and biomass, while dissolved oxygen and potassium positively impacted biomass. Of the dominant species recorded over the study area, the amoebozoa Centropyxis aculeata was associated with runoff variables, while the bacterivorous ciliates Colpidium colpoda, Glaucoma scintillans, and Vorticella convallaria were related to the abundance of heterotrophic bacteria, phytoplankton biomass, and total organic carbon. Total dissolved salts, PO4, NH3, NO2, dissolved oxygen, and total organic carbon were the strongest causative factors for protozoa distribution. The α-Mesosaprobic environment at site VI confirmed a high load of agricultural runoffs compared to other sites. This study demonstrates that protozoans can be a potential bioindicator of water quality status in this subtropical freshwater river system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explores the intriguing realm of eighth-order embedded solitons in highly dispersive media with cubic–quartic nonlinear susceptibilities χ(2) and χ(3), all within the dynamic context of multiplicative white noise and the framework of Itô calculus. Two different approaches are used in this study. The new auxiliary equation approach produces the bright soliton and singular soliton solutions, while the addendum Kudryashov’s approach produces the bright soliton, singular soliton and combo bright–singular soliton solutions. The system under investigation and the results documented within this work stand as pioneering and original contributions to the field of nonlinear optics. Furthermore, a collection of 2D, 3D and contour plots is produced to visually represent the spatial distribution and progression of different solutions. This not only contributes to the advancement of nonlinear equations in theory but also offers valuable insights for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grape seed oil (GSO) is a rich source of unsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, and phenolic compounds that have been shown to affect physiological disorders associated with chronic diseases positively. The article demonstrates GSO's chemical structure and health benefits, including its ability to alleviate oxidative stress, modulate cytokines, exhibit antimicrobial activity, and potentially prevent cancer. The review highlights the positive impact of GSO on livestock growth and products quality, particularly when combined with grape pomace in broiler and rabbits diets. Including grape seed extract in animals' diets improved carcass traits under oxidative stress conditions. It may also help reduce total lipid levels and lower LDL cholesterol levels, benefiting heart health. The article emphasizes the need for more studies to better understanding of the optimal bioactivity of GSO and to determine the recommended doses of GSO for human consumption. The review suggests that GSO could be a promising natural feed additive for improving poultry health and product quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gap between classical continuity and nanomechanics can be bridged using the concept of nonlocal elasticity. The Voigt viscoelastic model and the generalized dual-phase thermoelastic micropolar framework (DPL) are considered. Also, higher-order time derivatives with a two-phase delay are included in the heat transfer equation to generalize the proposed model. The mechanical and viscoelastic properties of suspensions, colloidal liquids, concretes, etc., can be described by applying the suggested model. As an example of using the proposed model, the effect of the pulsed heat transfer rate on the thermoelastic micropolar half-space was investigated. The analytical formulas for deformation, nonlocal thermal stress, and temperature change were derived after solving the governing equations using the Laplace transform technique. The graphical representation of numerical simulation results has been utilized to illustrate the effects of micropolarity, higher-order phenomena, phase delay, nonlocal index, and viscosity variables on a given distance. In this specific instance, the conclusions drawn from this analysis also incorporated the results of previously conducted research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sciaenid meagre (Argyrosomus regius, Asso 1801) is a significant organism in fisheries and a promising candidate for the Egyptian aquaculture. This study presented a comparative analysis of wild and aquacultured meagre. Two size groups of fish, small (S) and large (L), from the Egyptian Mediterranean Sea and a local farm in Maryut Valley were examined. Oxidative stress markers and antioxidant responses, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and catalase (CAT), were measured in the liver. Additionally, variations in muscle composition of lipids, total proteins, moisture, and ash content were evaluated. The muscle heavy metals (lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) mercury (Hg), manganese (Mn) and nickel (Ni)) concentrations were analyzed, and total accumulation was assessed using the metal pollution index (MPI). Furthermore, assessments of hazard associated with fish ingestion were conducted based on estimated dietary intakes (EDI and EWI), the target hazard quotient (THQ) and the carcinogenic risk (CR). The muscle contents of moisture, ash, total lipids, and total protein revealed insignificant results. The liver of small farmed fish (SFM) exhibited higher levels of SOD, CAT, and TAC compared to other groups. Analysis of heavy metals showed a nonsignificant trend of higher accumulation of Ni in farmed and small-sized fish, while Pb, Cd and Hg levels were higher in wild fish. However all recorded heavy metals did not exceed the international guideline of maximum permissible limit (MPL) for human consumption. Metal estimated dietary intake was calculated, and non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risk was assessed for different studied groups. The calculated THQ for Pb, Cd, Mn and Ni were less than 1, indicating lack of health risks from consumption of single metal up to seven times per week. The CR level indicated safe levels of Pb, Cd, Ni and Hg in the flesh of meagre in the Egyptian water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Winter cold wave adaptation strategies in hot climates due to climate change didn't receive the deserved attention from previous studies. Therefore, this study comprehensively investigates the impact of various windbreak parameters on mitigating winter cold stress in hot steppe-arid climate. A microclimate model for a residential campus was built and validated through on-site measurement on a typical winter day to assess thirty-two scenarios for tree characteristics and spatial configuration windbreak parameters based on PET, wind speed, and Air Temperature (AT). Moreover, four configurations, that had best results on mitigating cold stress in winter, were tested during typical summer conditions to couple the assessment of cold and hot seasons. Additionally, environmental analysis for all scenarios was conducted. The results revealed that the most effective parameters for mitigating cold stress are tree distribution, Leaf Area Density (LAD), row number, spacing, and shape. Double rows of high LAD and medium height trees with small spacing yielded the best cold stress mitigation effect. Furthermore, the windbreak reduced the cold stress in the morning and night by 19.31% and 18.06%, respectively. It reduced AT and wind speed at night by 0.79 °C and 2.56 m/s, respectively. During summer, very hot PET area was reduced by 21.79% and 19.5% at 12:00 and 15:00, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, new exact solutions of the perturbed Chen-Lee-Liu equation (CLL), which represents the propagation of an optical pulse in plasma and optical fiber, are obtained. Using a traveling wave ansatz, the nonlinear CLL is transformed into two nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Consequently, these equations are reduced to a first-order ordinary differential equation that has a well-known exact solution. The obtained exact solutions are in the form of kink wave, peakon, dark, and bright soliton solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates quercetin complexes as potential synergistic agents against the important respiratory pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae. Six quercetin complexes (QCX1–6) were synthesized by reacting quercetin with various metal salts and boronic acids and characterized using FTIR spectroscopy. Their antibacterial activity alone and in synergism with antibiotics was evaluated against S. pneumoniae ATCC 49619 using disc diffusion screening, broth microdilution MIC determination, and checkerboard assays. Complexes QCX-3 and QCX-4 demonstrated synergy when combined with levofloxacin via fractional inhibitory concentration indices ≤ 0.5 as confirmed by time-kill kinetics. Molecular docking elucidated interactions of these combinations with virulence enzymes sortase A and sialidase. A biofilm inhibition assay found the synergistic combinations more potently reduced biofilm formation versus monotherapy. Additionally, gene–gene interaction networks, biological activity predictions and in-silico toxicity profiling provided insights into potential mechanisms of action and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the parameter dynamics of super-Gaussian and super-sech pulses for the perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger's equation with polynomial and triple-power nonlinearity laws are recovered. The variational principle successfully recovers this dynamical system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comprehension of the long-term effects of irrigation on basic soil characteristics and quality is essential for sustainable land management and agricultural production, particularly in arid regions where water availability is limited. This study aimed to investigate long-term irrigation effects on soil quality, soil organic carbon (SOC), and nitrogen (N) stocks in the arid lands of Egypt. Seventy soil samples were collected and analyzed to determine various soil properties. A soil quality index (SQI), SOC, and N stocks were computed. ANOVA and PCA analyses were used to identify significant differences between alluvial soils in the southwest part of the investigated area and coastal marine soils in the northeast of the study area. The results demonstrated that most of the studied soil parameters had significantly greater values in alluvial compared to coastal marine soils. Long-term irrigation led to an 8.00% increase in SOC and 7.22% increase in N stocks compared to coastal marine soils production. Furthermore, a 39.53% increase was found in the SQI upon long-term irrigation practice. These results suggest that shifting from rain-fed in coastal marine areas to irrigated production systems in alluvial fields can improve soil quality, SOC, and N stocks. Therefore, further studies are required to investigate the impact of additional factors, such as irrigation method and salinity status of sub-surface soil layers, to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainable land use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pottery irrigation system is an ancient method to transport water drops slowly during porous pottery pitches, and it is filled manually. It is used in many countries and called with many names such as pitches, olla, clay, pours and ceramic irrigation systems. The present study aimed to analyze environmental and economic returns for developing and managing innovations in modern irrigation systems during the winter seasons (2020 and 2021) in AlSharqia, Egypt. Garlic was planted in one hectare under two irrigation systems, 1) The drippers were belt-in, the flow was 4 liter per second, with a operating pressure of 1 bar and two drippers in one meter on the hose, dripper known in Egypt as (Gr), used in the experiment as a surface drip (SD) and subsurface drip (SSD) irrigation system, 2) The Innovative Follicular Drippers (IFD) had ultra-low flow (0.1 l/h and 0.2 low-head operating pressure), three IFD in one meter on the hose. The plant row had three hoses located under the soil surface by 20 cm. The soil texture was sandy loam and water salinity was 400 ppm. Soil, water, and yield measurements were conducted using more than applied energy analysis and economic feasibility. The results showed that water savings by using IFD were 45%. The highest yields were 21.6, 15.8, and 11.7 tons/ha for IFD, SD, and SSD, respectively. The highest water productivity was 8.4, 3.4 and 2.5 kg.m-3 for IFD, SD and SSD, respectively. Green house gases (GHG) of IFD system were lower than SD and SSD by 67%. Where the novelty and utility of IFD is the collecting of the feature of irrigation net and pottery media in one system, where the IFD irrigation is controlled like common drip irrigation and pottery media did not required to refill by water manuuly follow-stop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A transparent composite sample containing BaTiO3 was synthesized by using the melting quenching method. The presence of a glassy phase in this composite sample was detected through XRD analysis, and this was further confirmed by DSC study. TEM and SAED analyses provided evidence that the BaTiO3 nanoparticles/clusters are embedded within the borate glass matrix, establishing the composite nature of this sample. FTIR spectrum of the present sample revealed that the glass matrix is composed of two structural groups (BO3 with NBO's, and BO4), along with the distinct groups for BaTiO3. XPS spectra of the present composite sample indicated the presence of more than one type of boron, barium, titanium and oxygen. DSC and dielectric studies of the present composite sample revealed the presence of the phase transition temperature (Tc). Dielectric constant (ɛr) and dielectric loss (tan δ) curves of the present composite sample displayed an anomaly peak in the vicinity of TC. The optical transmission spectrum of the present composite sample exhibit two transmission bands of Ti3+ (3d1) ions in tetragonal distorted sites. At room temperature, the present transparent composite sample exhibited double hysteresis loops for BaTiO3 at low electric fields. The results obtained can be used for the development of lead-free ferroelectric material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy is the preferred method for diagnosing axillary nodal involvement in breast cancer. Touch imprint cytology (TIC) and frozen section (FS) are two intraoperative techniques used to assess SLNs. Both methods have their disadvantages, and the superior technique remains uncertain. Aim: To determine the accuracy of TIC compared to FS in identifying metastases in SLNs in preoperatively node-negative axilla. Methods: Forty-six females with breast cancer and clinically and radiologically negative axillary lymph nodes were included in the study. For TIC, SLNs were bisected, imprinted onto clean slides, stained, and evaluated. For FS, tissue slices of the same lymph nodes were embedded in an appropriate medium and frozen to -25°C. Tissue sections were prepared using a cryostat, stained, and evaluated. Results: The patients' ages ranged from 30 to 71 years. There was a strong agreement between TIC and FS results (κ=0.864; p<0.0001). Both TIC and FS findings strongly correlated with the final nodal evaluation of SLNs by paraffin section (κ=0.909; p<0.0001 and κ=0.955; p<0.0001, respectively). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of TIC for detecting axillary lymph node metastasis were 96.4%, 94.4%, 96.4%, and 94.4%, respectively. For FS, these values were 96.4%, 100%, 100%, and 94.7%, respectively. Conclusion: Touch imprint cytology is a feasible, quick, and cost-effective alternative to frozen section for intraoperative evaluation of SLNs in breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The aim is to evaluate the long-term efficacy and survival outcome of MRI-guided cryoablation of small renal masses. Our renal ablation database was reviewed. We concluded that MRI-guided cryoablation is a very effective treatment for small kidney masses with long-term disease control. Background: Our purpose is to evaluate the long-term oncologic efficacy and survival rates of MRI-guided cryoablation for patients with biopsy-proven cT1a renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our renal ablation database between January 2007 and June 2021 and only included patients with solitary-biopsy-proven cT1a RCC (≤4 cm) who underwent MRI-guided cryoablation. We excluded patients with genetic syndromes, bilateral RCC, recurrent RCC or benign lesions, those without pathologically proven RCC lesions and patients who underwent radiofrequency ablation or CT-guided cryoablation. For each patient, we collected the following: age, sex, lesion size, right- or left-sided, pathology, ablation zone tumor recurrence, development of new tumor in the kidney other than ablation zone, development of metastatic disease, patient alive or not, date and cause of death. We used the Kaplan and Meier product limit estimator to estimate the survival outcomes. Results: Twenty-nine patients (median age 70 years) met our inclusion criteria. Twenty-nine MRI-guided cryoablation procedures were performed for twenty-nine tumor lesions with a median size of 2.2 cm. A Clavien–Dindo grade III complication developed in one patient (3.4%). Clear cell RCC was the most reported histology (n = 19). The median follow up was 4.5 years. No tumor recurrence or metastatic disease developed in any of the patients. Two patients developed new renal lesions separate from the ablation zone. The 5- and 10-year OS were 72% and 55.6%, respectively. The 5- and 10-year DFS were 90.5% and the 5-year and 10-year LRFS, MFS and CSS were all 100%. Conclusions: MRI-guided cryoablation is a safe treatment with a low complication rate. Long-term follow-up data revealed long-standing oncologic control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the parasitic infestations among 300 tilapia fish (Oreochromis niloticus and O. aureus) and the water parameters of sixty water samples from Damietta Governorate. Clinically, affected fish displayed emaciation and opacity in the eye with focal external hemorrhages. The detected parasites were protozoa (Chilodonella hexasticha), monogenea (Cichlidogyrus tilapiae), and digenetic trematode metacercaria (Heterphyes spp, Haplorichis spp, Clinostomum tilapiae, Euclinostomum heterostomum, Diplostomum spathacaum, Centrocestus formosanus, and other unidentified metacercaria). The total infestation rate was 60%, (66.7% in O. niloticus, followed by 53.3% in O. aureus). Summer was the season with the highest infestation (80% in O. niloticus and 64% in O. aureus). Water parameters such as visibility, oxygen levels, pH, and total alkalinity exhibited a significantly negative correlation with parasitic infestation. Conversely, water temperature, unionized ammonia, and NO3-N concentrations displayed a positive correlation. The occurrence of parasitic infestation increased in highly polluted water, where zinc exhibited a notable positive correlation with its infestation. Histopathological examinations of tilapia species exhibited various pathological alterations. C. hexasticha embedded within the secondary lamellae of the gills that were surrounded by a connective tissue capsule. Additionally, C. tilapiae was identified within the musculature, situated between muscle bundles. Parasitic cysts of Haplorchis spp. were encapsulated with connective tissue that caused pressure atrophy in adjacent hepatocytes. Furthermore, E. heterostomum, was identified in renal tissue. Thus, this study affirmed the connection between parasitic prevalence and changes in the aquatic environment. Understanding these dynamics is essential for managing and mitigating the impact of climate change on the epidemiological maps for parasitic diseases in fish populations, ultimately contributing to disease minimization and the promotion of sustainability in aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spermatozoa can experience negative changes when subjected to freezing and thawing, including lowered motility, viability and acrosome response. Herein, the effects of different concentrations of soybean lecithin nanoparticles on cryopreserved Holstein bull semen were examined. Semen was collected, cryopreserved and utilized for sperm kinetic parameter analysis following dilution, equilibration and thawing with 0.5% soybean lecithin (E1), the control extender, and 0.75% (E2), 0.5% (E3), 0.25% (E4) and 0.125% (E5) of lecithin nanoparticles. Results revealed that following dilution, the progressive motility (PM) at E3, E4 and E5 of lecithin nanoparticles was higher (p <.05) than it was for E2. After equilibration, compared to the E1, E2, and E3 values, the PM, vitality, normal morphology, membrane integrity and intact acrosome values at the E5 were consistently greater (p <.05). Comparing the percentages of intact acrosome and membrane integrity at E2 and E3 to E4 and E5, a substantial decrease (p <.05) was seen. Following thawing, the percentage of PM improved at E2 and E5, even though their mean PM values were similar (p >.05) compared to E1, E3 and E4. Vigour and progression parameters of sperm (DAP, DCL, DSL, VAP, VCL, VSL and STR) at E5 were higher (p <.05) than those at E1, E2, E3 and E4. In conclusion, the cryopreserved sperm from Holstein bulls revealed outstanding properties both after equilibration and after thawing with 0.125% lecithin nanoparticles, and they were sensitive to high dosages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus (DM) represents a problem for the healthcare system worldwide. DM has very serious complications such as blindness, kidney failure, and cardiovascular disease. In addition to the very bad socioeconomic impacts, it influences patients and their families and communities. The global costs of DM and its complications are huge and expected to rise by the year 2030. DM is caused by genetic and environmental risk factors. Genetic testing will aid in early diagnosis and identification of susceptible individuals or populations using ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels present in different tissues such as the pancreas, myocardium, myocytes, and nervous tissues. The channels respond to different concentrations of blood sugar, stimulation by hormones, or ischemic conditions. In pancreatic cells, they regulate the secretion of insulin and glucagon. Mutations in the KCNJ11 gene that encodes the Kir6.2 protein (a major constituent of KATP channels) were reported to be associated with Type 2 DM, neonatal diabetes mellitus (NDM), and maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY). Kir6.2 harbors binding sites for ATP and phosphatidylinositol 4,5-diphosphate (PIP2). The ATP inhibits the KATP channel, while the (PIP2) activates it. A Kir6.2 mutation at tyrosine330 (Y330) was demonstrated to reduce ATP inhibition and predisposes to NDM. In this study, we examined the effect of mutations on the Kir6.2 structure using bioinformatics tools and molecular dynamic simulations (SIFT, PolyPhen, SNAP2, PANTHER, PhD&SNP, SNP&Go, I-Mutant, MuPro, MutPred, ConSurf, HOPE, and GROMACS). Our results indicated that M199R, R201H, R206H, and Y330H mutations influence Kir6.2 structure and function and therefore may cause DM. We conclude that MD simulations are useful techniques to predict the effects of mutations on protein structure. In addition, the M199R, R201H, R206H, and Y330H variant in the Kir6.2 protein may be associated with DM. These results require further verification in protein–protein interactions, Kir6.2 function, and case-control studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the realm of optical soliton solutions within the intricate framework of highly dispersive couplers integrated with optical metamaterials featuring a parabolic law nonlinear refractive index. Employing the extended auxiliary equation method, the investigation systematically unveils various soliton solutions, including dark solitons, bright solitons, singular solitons, and a distinctive amalgamation of bright and singular solitons. The results illuminate the diverse dynamics of solitons in these complex systems, offering crucial insights into the interplay among dispersion, nonlinearity, and metamaterial characteristics. Beyond enhancing the theoretical understanding of soliton behavior in optical metamaterial couplers, the findings hold practical significance by potentially influencing the design and optimization of optical communication devices and systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop an environmentally acceptable corrosion inhibitor Rosa damascene extract (RD) served as the main ingredient in H2SO4 pickling processes. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), technique of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), polarization (PP) curves, and tests of weight loss (WL) have all been utilized to examine the inhibitory behavior of Rosa damascene on C‐steel corrosion in 1 M H2SO4 environment. The results show that the extract effectively inhibited the Zn′ corrosion in 1 M H2SO4. The inhibition was more effective at higher concentrations and temperatures. The inhibitory efficiency increased to 93.5% at a higher applied temperature (45°C) and higher Rosa damascene concentration (300 ppm). However, utilizing the weight loss method at potassium iodide addition, the inhibitory effectiveness of 300 ppm of Rosa damascene was synergistically increased from 75.0% to 96.1% at 25°C. Temkin isotherm was congruent with the adsorption process that produced the inhibitory impact on the C‐steel. The chemical adhesion of the Rosa damascene extract to the surface of the C‐steel was determined by the free energy of adsorption (ΔGoads = 40.5 kJ/mol.). In H2SO4 solution, corrosion of C‐steel may be prevented by the powerful inhibitor Rosa damascene extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic syndrome is one of the most frequent diseases with the augmentation of the rapid changes in societies' lifestyles. On the other hand, various medicinal plants have recently been extensively used for plentiful therapeutics. Among these, curcumin and turmeric are the main components derived from the rhizome of plants, with significant effects on preventing metabolic syndromes. Due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, the biological activities of turmeric and its bioactive element, curcumin, have antidiabetic properties via augmenting insulin release and anti-hyperlipidemia effects via enhancing fatty acids uptake, anti-obesity properties via declining lipogenesis, and antihypertensive properties via augmenting nitric oxide synthesis. Moreover, the dietary presence of turmeric and its bioactive element, curcumin, significantly affected poultry productivity, health and welfare. According to human and animal trials, turmeric or curcumin has important values as dietary supplementation and complementary therapy in some metabolic syndromes. This scenario highlights on the potential effects of curcumin (turmeric) on poultry health and its role in complementary therapy in metabolic syndrome. Additional high-quality clinical trial investigations are required to establish the clinical efficiency of the curcumin complement confidently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chamomile oil or extract, derived from the chamomile flower, is a natural remedy with various therapeutic properties. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding the medicinal properties of chamomile oil or extract including its antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities. Chamomile oil has exhibited antibacterial and antifungal properties against various microbes, involving Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. It has also been found to regulate blood sugar levels in animal and human studies, making it a potential candidate for diabetes treatment. Moreover, chamomile oil has antitumor properties, as it can induce apoptosis in cancer cells and inhibit their growth. In addition, chamomile oil has anti-inflammatory features, making it a possible option for treatment under inflammatory circumstances such as eczema, arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Chamomile oil has also been found to have valuable impacts on poultry farming due to its antimicrobial properties. It may be utilized as an organic substitute for antibiotics in chicken production. It is effective against common poultry pathogens, including Salmonella and E. coli, and can also improve poultry growth and feed conversion rate. In conclusion, chamomile oil or extract are promising natural remedy with various therapeutic properties and useful impacts on poultry and small ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cumulative neuroaxonal damage is the main cause of disability in multiple sclerosis (MS), although it may remain clinically silent for many years. In this article, the authors describe their research study measuring serum levels of the neurofilament light chain in patients with MS to assess how they correlated to disease severity and degree of disability in an Egyptian population. They demonstrate how serum levels of the neurofilament light chain are associated with clinical and MRI‐related measures of disease activity, supporting their use as an easily accessible, low cost and non‐invasive biomarker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin gene mutations affect the structure of insulin and are considered a leading cause of neonatal diabetes and permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus PNDM. These mutations can affect the production and secretion of insulin, resulting in inadequate insulin levels and subsequent hyperglycemia. Early discovery or prediction of PNDM can aid in better management and treatment. The current study identified potential deleterious non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms nsSNPs in the INS gene. The analysis of the nsSNPs in the INS gene was conducted using bioinformatics tools by implementing computational algorithms including SIFT, PolyPhen2, SNAP2, SNPs & GO, PhD-SNP, MutPred2, I-Mutant, MuPro, and HOPE tools to investigate the prediction of the potential association between nsSNPs in the INS gene and PNDM. Three mutations, C96Y, P52R, and C96R, were shown to potentially reduce the stability and function of the INS protein. These mutants were subjected to MDSs for structural analysis. Results suggested that these three potential pathogenic mutations may affect the stability and functionality of the insulin protein encoded by the INS gene. Therefore, these changes may influence the development of PNDM. Further researches are required to fully understand the various effects of mutations in the INS gene on insulin synthesis and function. These data can aid in genetic testing for PNDM to evaluate its risk and create treatment and prevention strategies in personalized medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation was conducted to calculate the superiority % for of the F1’s over commercial check hybrids, combining ability and genetic variability of eleven white maize inbred lines using a half-diallel design at Sids Agricultural Research Station in the 2022 growing season. The 55 crosses along with two commercial hybrids as checks; SC-10 and Hytech SC-2031 were evaluated in field trials at Sids, Sakha, and Gemmeiza Agricultural Research Stations using randomized complete block design with three replications in the growing season 2023. The results showed highly significant differences between three locations for all studied traits except GY and DTS traits. Mean squares for crosses and their interaction with locations were significant for all studied traits except for EHT. Also, variances of GCA and SCA were significant for all studied traits except EHT, indicating that additive and non-additive gene effects were important in the inheritance of most studied traits. However additive gene effects were more important than non-additive gene effects in the inheritance of all studied traits except for GY. Two inbred lines; Sd-4/2013 and Sk-12 had good general combining effects for GY. The best cross for SCA effects was Sd-63 × Gz-613 for GY; and Sd-1185 × Gz-613 for DTS. The cross Sd-2/2013 × Sk-9 was superior for grain yield and earliness than two checks. Also, four crosses; (Sd-2/2013 × Gz613), (Sd-41/2015 × Sk-13), (Sd-63 × Gz-613) and (Sd-1185 × Sk-9), were significantly superiority% relative to the two checks. These crosses will be further evaluated in the maize breeding program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Overweight is an urgent concern of majority of health organizations where it is rising incidence of metabolic syndromes and diseases. Molecular genetics studies on obesity investigated several adipocyte biomarkers with clinical significance. Increased non-blocked synthetic pathways in adipose tissues caused by excess calories consequence overweight and obese populations. Visceral fat adipocytes are strictly associated with metabolic dysfunctions, insulin resistance, heart conditions and others than subcutaneous fats. Adipocytes are the key endocrine like cells that release verities of biological protein adipokines derivatives causing different anti-inflammatory events. Disbalance in the adipokines synthesis and excretions will affect different fat tissues causing complications and pathogenesis related obesity. To combat obesity and its progression, the current study is focusing on the benefits of adipokines as a new trend biomarker for detecting obesity updates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to: 1) list the organizations or agents working within the decent life initiative in Assiut governorate, and 2) assess the linkages between such organizations using Graph-Theoretic Technique. Data were collected (from villages of Mesara and Sao belonging to Dayrout district, Assiut Governorate) using key informants’ meetings with three key persons from each village to determine the list of organizations working within the Decent Life Initiative. Then 16 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were conducted to collect data from the nominated organization during the period from November to December 2023. Graph-Theoretic Technique and Microsoft Excel were used for data analysis and presentation. Results show the existence of 173 linkages out of the supposed 240 linkages and the absence of 67 linkages. The density of linkages among the studied organizations reaches 0.72. It was also found that the components Orphan Sponsorship Association (P), AbnaMasara Association (B), Legitimacy Assembly (G), ALRahma Association (U), and Al- Taqwa Association (T) are the dominant components, their effect on other components is much greater than others' influence on it. It could be concluded that it has considerable control over the system. On the contrary, the components of Decent life Initiative (D), The rural local unit (L), Community development association (C), Schools (S), and Heath Unit (H) are subordinate; they found to be the sink of influence since they are influenced by others more than they influences them. This finding is not surprising, because these components as service receivers are the final target of all components within the system. Interestingly, Orman Association (O) and Misr El- Kheir Foundation (M) are highly interactive with the rest of the components and is followed by Resala charity Organization (R). The work nature for the components as large-scale NGOs requires this high interaction with all system’s components to be conducting in the field activities as well as providing their charity services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To determine the prevalence and risk factors of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in adult diabetic patients during 3 years. Patients and methods This is a cross-sectional study that was carried out on the adult diabetic population who attended a large private referral ophthalmology center in Assiut City, Upper Egypt for 3 years. All cases were subjected to full history taking, ophthalmological examination, and dilated fundus examination for evidence of DR, and besides, the associated systemic complications were assessed. Results The study included a total of 2178 cases and the prevalence of DR was 18.2%. DR was more prevalent in females than males (67.9% vs. 32.1%). Also, DR was significantly associated with insulin use, moderate and poor control of diabetes mellitus, uncontrolled hypertension (HTN), dyslipidemia, and nephropathy (P<0.01 for all). The risk factors for DR were; older age (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.69; 95% CI =0.91–1.97; P≤0.01), female sex (AOR 1.65; 95% CI =1.21–1.86; P =0.02), smoking (AOR 1.73; 95% CI =1.41–2.11; P =0.02), longer duration of DM (> 15 years) (AOR 2.87; 95% CI =2.48–3.29; P ≤0.01), insulin use (AOR 1.42; 95% CI =0.94–1.65; P=0.03), poor control of DM (AOR 3.98; 95% CI =3.69–5.41; P≤0.01), presence of HTN (AOR 2.62; 95% CI =2.37–2.89; P≤0.01) and dyslipidemia (AOR 1.65; 95% CI =1.42–2.02; P=0.03). Conclusion The prevalence of DR in adult diabetic patients was 18.2% and the significant risk factors for DR (arranged descendingly in power) were; poor control of DM, longer duration of DM (> 15 years), presence of HTN, smoking, high age, dyslipidemia, female sex, and insulin use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of the insertion of Pb2+ ions into the Li2O–BaO–B2O3 based glass matrix has been investigated. The Archimedes' method was used to determine the density (ρ) and, as a result, the molar volume (Vm) of the samples. The ρ of the glasses increased from 2.917 to 5.003 (g/cm3), and the Vm increased from 24.155 to 27.074 (cm3/mol). The optical band gap of the samples was determined based on their UV–visible spectra. The structural study of the present glasses has been carried out by XRD patterns and FTIR spectra analysis. Numerous theoretical methods were used to calculate some parameters such as ionic radius, optical basicity, non-linear refractive index, and oxide ion polarizability. The mass attenuation coefficient MAC was obtained experimentally as well as theoretically by the Phy-X/PSD software programs and the obtained results were in very good agreement. The half-value layer HVL, mean free path (MFP), effective atomic number (Zeff), atomic cross-sections and electron cross-sections were evaluated for all the present glass samples. In addition, exposure build-up factor and energy exposure build-up factor were estimated for each glass up to penetration depths of 40 MFP. Moreover, the effective neutron removal cross-section (ƩR) was also calculated. The shielding properties of the prepared glass samples were compared with different concrete shielding materials, and commercial glasses, therefore, the prepared glasses outperformed all the aforementioned materials in terms of gamma ray shielding ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green roofs' (GR) positive impact on indoor thermal conditions in hot areas may have possible negative impacts during hot and cold weather. Most previous studies have focused on GR's positive effects as a standalone strategy without mitigating these side effects of GR application. This study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of GR and how to mitigate the negative aspects by integrating it with other passive techniques (natural ventilation and thermal insulation). Therefore, this study experimentally compares the seasonal impact of various soil layer configurations, integrated with natural ventilation, on improving Indoor Thermal Comfort (ITC) throughout the day in summer and winter. Field experiments were conducted using two identical validated test boxes. The results revealed that clay soil reduced Indoor Air Temperature (IAT) during the daytime in summer by up to 4.7 and 4°C for low and high soil thickness, respectively. Increasing clay soil thickness improved average IAT during the daytime in summer and winter by up to 6.49% and 2.61%, respectively. Additionally, adding thermal insulation is preferred in winter, while uninsulated soil had a slight positive effect on IAT and Indoor Relative Humidity (IRH) in summer. The use of natural ventilation at night and closed-ventilated systems during the daytime in summer and winter is recommended. Clay soil could save cooling and heating energy by up to 34.8% and 12.18%, respectively. These findings might inform designers by adjusting different GR soil parameters and the importance of natural ventilation in improving multi-seasonal thermal and energy performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper endeavors to utilize the numerical modeling method to evaluate the energy, economic, and environmental performances of a new hybrid PV-FC system for green hydrogen and electricity production. The proposed system consists of photovoltaic panels, fuel cells, an electrolyzer, a converter, and a hydrogen storage tank. A robust techno-enviro-economic (3E) analysis is conducted through comprehensive modeling for the system components using MATLAB/Simulink®. In this validated model, the essential parameters have been calculated: PV plant power, area and efficiency, electrolyzer efficiency, flow rate and power, stack power, area and efficiency, total LCOE of the integrated components, and CO 2 emission reduction. Moreover, the NSGA-II coupled with TOPSIS decision-making approach and Gaussian Process Regression machine learning method with selection kernel function are also utilized as a novel inclusion for the prediction and optimization of the 3E performances of this hybrid system. To obtain a multidimensional view of the optimization, six key decision variables of total stack power, fossil fuel-based generator energy, total CO 2 emissions coming from hydrogen production, total FC system voltage, module area, and number of PV modules have been adopted. The optimization problem encompasses maximizing the total fuel cell stack power and carbon emission reduction, while simultaneously minimizing the total stack area and levelized cost of energy. The simulation outcomes reveal that the stack can reach its maximum output power of 350 kW when operating temperatures are between 40 °C and 55 °C and there are more than 380 cells in the stack. Also, the LCOE was found to be less than $2/kWh for solar radiation above 250 W/m2 and PV outputs reaching 100 W. Further, Increasing FCs from 10 to 400 reduces CO 2 emissions by roughly 13% at 100 °C. Ultimately, the optimal configuration of the system yields stack power of 1589 kW, a total stack area of 269.9 m2, and total CO 2 emission reduction of 1268 ton CO2 , respectively. • Robust 3E analysis using MATLAB-based techno-environmental-economic study. • ML tool using GPR and GA optimization method used for performance optimization. • LCOE is less than $2/kWh for solar radiation above 250 W/m2 and 100 W PV output. • The PVFCEHST model exhibits a high degree of reliability and a robust integrated model. • FC power efficiency reaches 60% when operational temperature is between 40 and 55 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammation is a part of the body's intricate biological reaction to noxious stimuli and defensive reactions. So, the aim of this investigation was to study the anti-inflammatory activity of exopolysaccharide (EPSSM) using carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. A halophilic bacterial strain was isolated from marine sediments in the Red Sea in Egypt. The isolate has been visually and physiologically recognized, as well as by analyzing its 16S rRNA gene, which confirms Kocuria sp. clone Asker4. This particular isolate can be referenced using the accession number OL798051.1. EPSSM was subjected to purification and fractionation by a DEAE-cellulose column. Preliminary chemical analysis of EPSSM indicated that the monosaccharides were fructose, glucuronic acid, and xylose, with 2.0, 0.5, and 1.0, respectively. The antioxidant potential of EPSSM was investigated, and it was discovered that the level of activity increased independently of the concentrations, reaching a maximum threshold of 94.13% at 100 µg/mL of EPSSM for 120 min. Also, EPSSM at 50 mg/kg orally produced a significant anti-inflammatory effect on the carrageenan model at 2, 3, and 4 intervals. The EPSSM intervention resulted in reductions in the levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes, as well as a decrease in glutathione. Furthermore, the levels of nitric oxide, lipid peroxidation, and reactive oxygen species resulting from carrageenan-induced edema showed a significant reduction subsequent to the administration of EPSSM. Moreover, the findings indicated that the protein expression levels of cyclooxygenase-2 and interleukin-6 were reduced following treatment with EPSSM, resulting in a reduction of paw edema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mathematical models and numerical simulations are used to analyse and predict the behaviour of porous materials under coupled mechanical and thermal loading conditions in poroelastic thermoelastic studies. This field is crucial in understanding and designing systems involving porous media where mechanical and thermal factors are important. For this reason, this work aims to provide a theoretical study of porous elastic materials surrounded by a magnetic field using the dual phase lag (DPL) model of thermoelasticity. The significance of this study lies in its diverse range of applications across several engineering, and geophysical disciplines, encompassing soil mechanics, geomechanics, petroleum engineering, and civil engineering. An investigation was conducted on an indefinitely long, porous, solid circular cylinder subjected to a constant magnetic field to demonstrate the proposed theoretical framework. The outer surface of the cylinder was thermally shocked and maintained free from any stress or traction. To solve the problem, Laplace transforms and their inverse methods are used. Numerical examples of excess pore water pressure, temperature, displacement, induced magnetic field, and thermal stresses are given at different medium sites. Finally, graphical representations were created to depict the results of field variables across different thermal delays and porosity estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pot experiments was conducted to study the possible role of melatonin (50 µM or 100 µM) alone or in combination with Basagran herbicide at recommended dose or ½ recommended dose in reducing the deleterious effect of weed associated with Vicia faba plants. Results show that all applied treatments significantly reduced the weed dry weight at 45 DAS and at harvest accompanied by significant increase in growth parameters of bean plants (at 45 DAS), all components of photosynthetic pigments, seed yield/plant and its components relative to unweeded treatment. It is obvious that herbicide at recommended dose was more effective than herbicide at ½ recommended dose. Similarly, melatonin at 50 ξM was more effective than melatonin at 100 ξM. It is worthy to mention that interaction between melatonin at 50 ξM and herbicide at recommended dose was the most pronounced treatments, since it significantly decreased weed dry weight by 97.49 % at 45 DAS and at harvest by 94.11% and significantly increased dry weight of plant by 171%, total photosynthetic pigments by 31.75%, faba bean seed yield/plant by 152%, and total carbohydrate of the yielded seeds by 17.77% relative to unweeded treatment. It could be concluded the availability of using the antioxidant as melatonin with basagran herbicide to decrease the deleterious basagran herbicide effect on growth and yield of Vicia faba plants without affecting the efficacy of the herbicide on weeds and decreased weed propagation with significant degree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precise neurosurgical guidance is critical for successful brain surgeries and plays a vital role in all phases of image-guided neurosurgery (IGN). Neuronavigation software enables real-time tracking of surgical tools, ensuring their presentation with high precision in relation to a virtual patient model. Therefore, this work focuses on the development of a novel multimodal IGN system, leveraging deep learning and explainable AI to enhance brain tumor surgery outcomes. The study establishes the clinical and technical requirements of the system for brain tumor surgeries. NeuroIGN adopts a modular architecture, including brain tumor segmentation, patient registration, and explainable output prediction, and integrates open-source packages into an interactive neuronavigational display. The NeuroIGN system components underwent validation and evaluation in both laboratory and simulated operating room (OR) settings. Experimental results demonstrated its accuracy in tumor segmentation and the success of ExplainAI in increasing the trust of medical professionals in deep learning. The proposed system was successfully assembled and set up within 11 min in a pre-clinical OR setting with a tracking accuracy of 0.5 (± 0.1) mm. NeuroIGN was also evaluated as highly useful, with a high frame rate (19 FPS) and real-time ultrasound imaging capabilities. In conclusion, this paper describes not only the development of an open-source multimodal IGN system but also demonstrates the innovative application of deep learning and explainable AI algorithms in enhancing neuronavigation for brain tumor surgeries. By seamlessly integrating pre- and intra-operative patient image data with cutting-edge interventional devices, our experiments underscore the potential for deep learning models to improve the surgical treatment of brain tumors and long-term post-operative outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate localization of gliomas, the most common malignant primary brain cancer, and its different sub-region from multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) volumes are highly important for interventional procedures. Recently, deep learning models have been applied widely to assist automatic lesion segmentation tasks for neurosurgical interventions. However, these models are often complex and represented as "black box" models which limit their applicability in clinical practice. This article introduces new hybrid vision Transformers and convolutional neural networks for accurate and robust glioma segmentation in Brain MRI scans. Our proposed method, TransXAI, provides surgeon-understandable heatmaps to make the neural networks transparent. TransXAI employs a post-hoc explanation technique that provides visual interpretation after the brain tumor localization is made without any network architecture modifications or accuracy tradeoffs. Our experimental findings showed that TransXAI achieves competitive performance in extracting both local and global contexts in addition to generating explainable saliency maps to help understand the prediction of the deep network. Further, visualization maps are obtained to realize the flow of information in the internal layers of the encoder-decoder network and understand the contribution of MRI modalities in the final prediction. The explainability process could provide medical professionals with additional information about the tumor segmentation results and therefore aid in understanding how the deep learning model is capable of processing MRI data successfully. Thus, it enables the physicians' trust in such deep learning systems towards applying them clinically. To facilitate TransXAI model development and results reproducibility, we will share the source code and the pre-trained models after acceptance at https://github.com/razeineldin/TransXAI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant essential oils (EOs) are considered a vital tool of novel natural mosquito repellents and botanical adulticides. Five plant EOs (cinnamon, cypress, lavender, lemon eucalyptus and tea tree) and their major constituents (cinnamaldehyde, citronellal, β-cymene, (R)-linalool, and α-terpinyl acetate) were investigated against adults of Culex pipiens. The efficacy of the tested compounds was manipulated as mortality and knockdown using a fumigation technique. After that, the most active compounds against adults (lemon eucalyptus oil and linalool) were investigated once more as repellents after incorporating them on a cream base against C. pipiens adults compared to their nano-cream using arm-in-cage technique. In addition, the biochemical and histological effects of dermal treatment of linalool, lemon eucalyptus,, and their nanoemulsions (NEs) were studied on male albino rats. Total protein assay, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase), and liver and kidney functions were determined in blood serum. Complete blood count (CBC) was determined in whole blood. The results showed that lemon eucalyptus oil and (R)-linalool caused the highest knockdown activity against C. pipiens adults with Kt50 40.29 s and 12.73 s, respectively. The repellent effect (RC50) of nanocream formulations of lemon eucalyptus oil (10.03 mg/L) and (R)-linalool (68.11 mg/L) were higher than the original effects of these compounds with RC50 values = 100.82 mg/L and 998.54 mg/L, respectively. There are no obvious harmful side effects of the dermal topical treatments of (R)-linalool and lemon eucalyptus oil on the tested biochemical parameters of treated albino rats compared with the control. Furthermore, there are no obvious effects of the dermal topical treatments of (R)-linalool and lemon eucalyptus oil on the histological status of the treated skin of albino rats compared with untreated treatment. The tested oils and monoterpenes could be considered promising candidates for botanical adulticides against C. pipiens. Also, nano-cream of lemon eucalyptus oil and (R)-linalool could be considered promising ecofriendly repellents for C. pipiens adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to identify the role of bacterial biofilms in the chronicity of otitis media with effusion and its resistance to antibiotics. We illustrated this role by reviewing, analyzing, and correlating the findings with the results of the included studies to reach clear evidence. Methods: A comprehensive search of electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and GHL databases) was performed for all studies using the following strategy till April 2021 with the search terms: Biofilm and Middle ear effusion. We found 935 references, 421 were duplicates, and 514 were needed for further screening, and it was as follows: PubMed 215, Scopus 18, Cochrane 130, Web of Science 136, and GHL 15. Results: The pooled prevalence of culture-positive effusions was estimated to be 40% (95% CI [28%, 53%]) of the total OME population. Overall, the prevalence of PCR-positive effusions was estimated to be 97% (95% CI [95%, 99%]) of the total OME population. The pooled prevalence of EM-positive effusions was estimated to be 82% (95% CI [69%, 95%]) of the total OME population. Conclusion: The data presented in this study coincide with the significant role of bacterial biofilms in the pathogenesis of chronic otitis media with effusion. The involvement of bacterial biofilm as a component of the OME pathogenic process can help us to explain why antimicrobial therapy is not always effective in the eradication of the disease process and, also explain the recurrence of middle ear effusion after treatment with tympanostomy tubes either with or without adenoidectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burn injuries pose a significant healthcare burden worldwide, often leading to long-term disabilities and reduced quality of life. To explore the impacts of the transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on the healing of burns and the levels of serum cytokines, 60 fully grown Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 20 each): group I (control), group II (burn induction), and group III (burn induction + bone marrow (BM)-MSC transplantation). Groups II and III were further divided into four subgroups (n = 5 each) based on euthanasia duration (7, 14, 21, and 28 days post transplant). The experiment concluded with an anesthesia overdose for rat death. After 7, 14, 21, and 28 days, the rats were assessed by clinical, laboratory, and histopathology investigations. The results revealed significant improvements in burn healing potentiality in the group treated with MSC. Furthermore, cytokine levels were measured, with significant increases in interleukin (IL)-6 and interferon alpha (IFN) observed, while IL-10 and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) decreased at 7 days and increased until 28 days post burn. Also, the group that underwent the experiment exhibited increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 when compared to the control group. Histological assessments showed better re-epithelialization, neovascularization, and collagen deposition in the experimental group, suggesting that MSC transplantation in burn wounds may promote burn healing by modulating the immune response and promoting tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyaluronan (HA) is a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan that is present in a variety of body tissues and organs. Hyaluronan has a wide range of biological activities that are frequently influenced by molar mass; however, they also depend greatly on the source, purity, and kind of impurities in hyaluronan. High-molar-mass HA has anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and antiangiogenic properties, while low-molar-mass HA has opposite properties. A number of chemical modifications have been performed to enhance the stability of HA and its applications in medical practice. Hyaluronan is widely applied in medicine, such as viscosupplementation, ophthalmology, otolaryngology, wound healing, cosmetics, and drug delivery. In this review, we summarized several medical applications of polymers based on the hyaluronan backbone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]