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Energy generation and economic development are closely linked, with energy playing a pivotal role in wealth creation. However, the finite nature of fossil fuel resources and associated environmental challenges has emphasized the need for sustainable energy alternatives based on renewable sources. Among these alternatives, photovoltaic (PV) systems hold significant potential for fostering a sustainable energy system. Despite ongoing material research, achieving a major breakthrough in enhancing the conversion efficiency of commercial PV modules remains a challenge. To optimize PV system yield, installation must consider geographic location and design factors. PV modules often yield different results compared to manufacturer specifications due to factors such as high temperatures, dust, and arid to semiarid climates. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct outdoor testing and characterization of PV modules tailored to specific locations, such as Jordan, to maximize system performance. This research aims to examine the impact of ambient temperature, dust accumulation, and solar irradiance intensity on PV system performance in Jordan, providing valuable insights through monitoring power output variations. The findings will contribute to improving PV system efficiency in Jordan's unique climate and aid manufacturers in developing innovative PV applications. The collected data includes solar radiation, temperature, voltage, current, and output power. The results confirm that the Azraq site is a better location when compared to Mafraq based on the possibility of generated more output power using a PV system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Esophageal food impaction (EFI) is a common complaint of patients presenting to the emergency department. EFI requires urgent evaluation by the gastroenterology service and often necessitates esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) for management. Timing of EGD in patients with EFI that does not improve with medical management remains a point of contention. We aim to evaluate outcomes of EFI in the context of time to intervention. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed among patients who presented to a multicenter health system with EFI between 2018 and 2022. Patients with EFI that did not resolve after medical management and required EGD were included. Outcome analysis evaluated rates of complications and hospitalizations. Results: Two hundred eighty sis unique patient presentations were included. 175 (61.2%) of patients underwent EGD within six hours of presentation, 59 (20.6%) underwent EGD six to twelve hours after presentation, and 52 (18.2%) underwent EGD beyond twelve hours after presentation. Complication rates did not differ between patients depending on timing of EGD (p = 1.000). Admission rates were higher among patients in whom EGD was performed longer after presentation (p = 0.003). Complication rates were higher among patients with advanced age (p = 0.037), prior impaction (p = 0.004), and those who have not received glucagon (p = 0.007). Conclusion: Timing of EGD after presentation in patients with EFI was not associated with a difference in complication rates. Delayed intervention was associated with a higher rate of hospitalization which should be taken into consideration when assessing the cost of EFI to the healthcare system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Panicum maximum is planted extensively in tropical and subtropical areas, due to its high-quality forage and high biomass yield. This study aims to assess the varied metabolic dynamics of P. maximum subject to different pollution-related wastewater levels, thus providing information for sustainable agriculture and soil restoration. We analyzed the primary and secondary metabolites in P. maximum subject to two different types of polluted wastewater (WW), compared to a control group. The alterations observed in the metabolite profiles were affected by several factors, including nutrient imbalances and oxidative stress induced by heavy metal accumulation. Initially, the increased nutrient availability stemming from wastewater treatment promoted plant growth; however, this positive effect was later diminished by the adverse impacts of heavy metals, which generated oxidative stress, resulting in metabolic disturbances and a decrease in the plant biomass. Importantly, the substantial increase in antioxidant enzymes, related to primary (e.g., sugars) and secondary metabolites (e.g., phenolics and flavonoids), underscores plants' adaptive strategies to cope with stress. The increased biosynthesis of flavonoids and phenolic compounds is a protective mechanism against oxidative stress, which also improves the antimicrobial activity, following the activation of key biosynthetic pathways involved in their synthesis. These complex interactions among diverse metabolites suggest that plants exposed to polluted wastewater use various biochemical strategies to increase both their survival and defenses against pathogens. Collectively, these findings emphasize the significance of understanding how wastewater management practices can affect plant health, metabolic responses, and the broader implications for food safety and ecosystem stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study published in the Journal of Neurology explores the use of biplanar MRI in the early detection of transient global amnesia (TGA). TGA is a condition characterized by temporary memory loss. The study found that biplanar MRI had a diagnostic yield of 70.6% in detecting diffusion lesions in TGA patients. This suggests that biplanar MRI may be a valuable tool for the early and accurate diagnosis of TGA. However, the study acknowledges the need for further research with larger cohorts to validate these findings. [Extracted from the article]

Data transmission has become a crucial aspect of our daily lives in the current digital age. However, this transmission comes with the risk of security breaches, which can result in data theft and unauthorized access. This issue can be addressed by using cryptographic techniques such as elliptic curve cryptography (ECC). In comparison to other cryptosystems, ECC is a potent cryptographic tool that provides high levels of security with comparatively reduced key sizes. This paper discusses the use of ECC in efficient and secure data transmission. It provides a comprehensive overview of ECC, including its mathematical background and how it can be applied to encryption and decryption processes. The paper also presents a comparison of ECC with other cryptographic techniques and highlights its advantages, including its resistance to attacks and efficiency in resource-constrained environments. Finally, the paper discusses the implementation of ECC in real-world scenarios and its potential to revolutionize secure data transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-determination is an inherent and indisputable legal entitlement that must be universally available to every individual, irrespective of their physical capabilities. In the case of people who are blind or have low vision, these rights are often challenged. Access to information is a major factor in facilitating choices that align with their goals, aspirations, and meaningful participation in society. This critical review examines the legal, ethical, and psychological dimensions of information access and self-determination for individuals with visual impairments. The legal framework for self-determination and the right to information is primarily shaped by international human rights treaties and domestic legislation. Notably, international conventions such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) provide safeguards to ensure that individuals with visual impairment are afforded equal opportunities for societal engagement, including unrestricted access to information. However, implementing these laws remains challenging in many countries, particularly developing nations. This literature review highlights significant ethical implications of denying individuals with visual impairment access to information, leading to disempowerment and a lack of agency. Psychologically, self-determination and the right to information have been demonstrated as essential factors for the well-being of visually impaired individuals. Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent mental health conditions in individuals with visual impairment. It has been shown that the inability to make choices that align with patients’ values and beliefs can negatively impact their mental health. A critical evaluation of the cultural and psychological barriers to information access can offer valuable insights into how international human rights treaties and domestic laws can be effectively implemented to safeguard the rights of individuals with visual impairments. The literature is scarce on preventive and early intervention strategies to mitigate mental health issues within this group, highlighting the need for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gadolinium (Gd) is an increasingly found lanthanide element in soil; thus, understanding its impact on plant physiology, biochemistry, and molecular responses is crucial. Here, we aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of Gd (150 mg kg− 1) impacts on guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) plant yield and metabolism and whether the symbiotic relationship with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can mitigate Gd toxicity of soil contamination. Results: AMF treatment improved mineral nutrient uptake and seed yield by 38–41% under Gd stress compared to non-inoculated stressed plants. Metabolic analysis unveiled the defense mechanisms adopted by AMF-treated plants, revealing carbon and nitrogen metabolism adaptations to withstand Gd contamination. This included an increase in the synthesis of primary metabolites, such as total sugar (+ 39% compared to control), soluble sugars (+ 29%), starch (+ 30%), and some main amino acids like proline (+ 57%) and phenylalanine (+ 87%) in the seeds of AMF-treated plants grown under Gd contamination. Furthermore, fatty acid and organic acid profile changes were accompanied by the production of secondary metabolites, including tocopherols, polyamines, phenolic acids, flavones, and anthocyanins. Conclusions: Overall, the coordinated synthesis of these compounds underscores the intricate regulatory mechanisms underlying plant-AMF interactions and highlights the potential of AMF to modulate plant secondary metabolism for enhanced Gd stress tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary alcohols 2(a–h) and o‐aminobenzamides 1(a–h) can be selectively oxidized electrochemically to yield dihydroquinazolinone 4(a–h) and quinazolinones 5(a–h) in an efficient and chemoselective manner. This methodology employs sodium chloride (NaCl) 3(a) as a co‐catalyst and electricity as the oxidizing agent, utilizing cost‐effective and commercially available materials such as Graphite anode, Iron (Fe) cathode, and isopropyl alcohol (iPrOH) as a solvent and weak base. The synthesis yields various quinazolinone derivatives with diverse structural characteristics in good quantities, showcasing the method's broad applicability. This approach facilitates the production of a range of dihydroquinazolinones and quinazolinones (24 examples), highlighting its versatility and compatibility with different functional groups. Characterization of the synthesized derivatives included CHN analysis, 1HNMR spectroscopy, and determination of melting points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Salinity negatively affects maize productivity. However, calcium lignosulfonate (CLS) could improve soil properties and maize productivity. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the effects of CLS application on soil chemical properties, plant physiology and grain quality of maize under salinity stress. Thus, this experiment was conducted using three CLS application rates, CLS0, CLS5, and CLS10, corresponding to 0%, 5%, and 10% of soil mass, for three irrigation water salinity (WS) levels WS0.5, WS2.5, and WS5.5 corresponding to 0.5 and 2.5 and 5.5 dS/m, respectively. Results and discussion: Results show that the WS0.5 × CLS10 combination increased potassium (K 0.167 g/kg), and calcium (Ca, 0.39 g/kg) values while reducing the sodium (Na, 0.23 g/kg) content in soil. However, the treatment WS5.5 × CLS0 decreased K (0.120 g/kg), and Ca (0.15 g/kg) values while increasing Na (0.75 g/kg) content in soil. The root activity was larger in WS0.5 × CLS10 than in WS5.5 × CLS0, as the former combination enlarged K and Ca contents in the root while the latter decreased their values. The leaf glutamine synthetase (953.9 µmol/(g.h)) and nitrate reductase (40.39 µg/(g.h)) were higher in WS0.5 × CLS10 than in WS5.5 × CLS0 at 573.4 µmol/(g.h) and 20.76 µg/(g.h), leading to the improvement in cell progression cycle, as revealed by lower malonaldehyde level (6.57 µmol/g). The K and Ca contents in the leaf (881, 278 mg/plant), stem (1314, 731 mg/plant), and grains (1330, 1117 mg/plant) were greater in WS0.5 × CLS10 than in WS5.5 × CLS0 at (146, 21 mg/plant), (201, 159 mg/plant) and (206, 157 mg/plant), respectively. Therefore, the maize was more resistance to salt stress under the CLS10 level, as a 7.34% decline in yield was noticed when salinity surpassed the threshold value (5.96 dS/m). The protein (13.6 %) and starch (89.2 %) contents were greater in WS0.5 × CLS10 than in WS5.5 × CLS0 (6.1 %) and (67.0 %), respectively. This study reveals that CLS addition can alleviate the adverse impacts of salinity on soil quality and maize productivity. Thus, CLS application could be used as an effective soil amendment when irrigating with saline water for sustainable maize production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioavailability of heavy metals in soil is a crucial factor in determining their potential uptake by plants and their subsequent entry into the food chain. Various methods, including traditional chemical extractants and the diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) technique, are employed to assess this bioavailability. The bioavailability of heavy metals, particularly cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), is also influenced by soil texture and their concentrations in the soil solution. The primary objectives of this experiment were to compare and correlate the assessment of the Cd and Pb bioavailability using the DGT technique and traditional extractants across two soil textural classes: sandy clay loam (SCL) and clay loam (CL) at two contamination levels: aged contaminated (NC) and artificially contaminated (AC). The specific objectives included assessing the bioavailability of Cd and Pb at different growth stages of the wheat plant and correlating the DGT-based bioassessments of Cd and Pb with their concentrations in various plant parts at different growth stages. This study also compared the effectiveness of the DGT method and traditional extraction techniques in assessing the bioavailable fractions of Cd and Pb in soil. The regression analysis demonstrated strong positive correlations between the DGT method and various extraction methods. The results showed that the wheat plants grown in the AC soils exhibited lower root, shoot, and grain weights compared to those grown in the NC soils, indicating that metal contamination negatively impacts plant performance. The concentrations of Cd and Pb in the wheat tissues varied across different growth stages, with the highest levels observed during the grain filling (S3) and maturity (S4) stages. It is concluded that the in situ assessment of Cd and Pb though DGT was strongly and positively correlated with the Cd and Pb concentration in wheat plant parts at the maturity stage. A correlation and regression analysis of the DGT assessment and traditional extractants showed that the DGT method provides a reliable tool for assessing the bioavailability of Cd and Pb in soils and helped in developing sustainable soil management strategies to ensure the safety of agricultural products for human consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Undoubtedly, overlooking a stroke can result in severe disability or even death. However, identifying stroke patients in the prehospital setting poses a significant challenge. While the Face–Arm–Speech–Time (FAST) score is widely used, its effectiveness has been questioned because of its focus on symptoms primarily associated with anterior circulation strokes. In response to this limitation, we developed the innovative FAST4D score and conducted a comparative analysis of stroke detection rates between the novel FAST4D score and the FAST score. Methods: This prospective, multicenter proof-of-concept study aimed to assess stroke detection rates using both the FAST score and the new FAST4D score, which incorporates additional items such as the acute onset of diplopic images, deficit in the field of vision, dizziness/vertigo, and dysmetria/ataxia. Following their presentation to emergency medical services, all patients suspected of having a stroke and those diagnosed with a stroke upon discharge were included in this study. The diagnostic performance of the novel FAST4D score was evaluated and compared with that of the FAST score. Results: Between May 2019 and June 2021, a total of 1469 patients (749 female) were enrolled, with 1035 patients discharged with the diagnosis of stroke. Notably, 259 patients were identified solely through the FAST4D score. This resulted in a significantly higher rate of correctly identified as having had a stroke (stroke detection rate, sensitivity) with the new FAST4D score (93%) compared with the established FAST score (78%) (p < 0.001). This resulted in a reduction in false negative diagnoses by 65%. Conclusions: The novel FAST4D score demonstrated a 15-percentage increase in the stroke detection rate. This heightened detection rate holds the potential for more accurate patient allocation to stroke units, consequently reducing the time to revascularization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate and compare the root canal morphology of mandibular premolars in Saudi and Sudanese subpopulations and between males and females within each group using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was done between May 2022 and July 2023. Six hundred premolars from Saudi and Sudanese subpopulations were evaluated using CBCT for their number of roots, type of root canal configuration based on Vertucci's classification, and average canal length measured from the buccal cusp tip to the root end. Statistical Analysis Statistical comparisons were made between males and females within each subpopulation and the two subpopulations using the chi-square test for root number and type of root canal configuration and an independent sample t -test for the canal length. Results Most mandibular premolars in both subpopulations had a single root, with type I root canal configuration. However, Sudanese showed various canal configurations (I, II, III, IV, and V) compared with Saudis, which was statistically significant in the first canal of the first mandibular premolar (p < 0.05). Also, there were statistically significant differences in canal length between Saudi males and females (p < 0.05) and between Saudis and Sudanese (p < 0.05) in the first and second premolars. Conclusion Although most mandibular premolars in Saudi and Sudanese subpopulations exhibited a single root and type I canal configuration, variations exist between and within the groups, highlighting ethnic and gender differences and emphasizing the need for dentists' attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the principal stylistic characteristics of metrical formation and rhyme in the poetry collection of Taysīr Subūl Aḥzān Ṣaḥrāwiyyah ‘Desert Sorrows’. It explores the impact of traditional Arabic metrical forms on articulating the poet's real-life and psychological experiences. The research also delves into the importance of rhyme in fostering a unified emotional flow, maintaining the continuity of events, and culminating the poet's conceptual thoughts. The study concludes that Subūl's selection of classical Arabic meters (Buhur) and their metrical variations significantly contribute to the freedom and fluidity of his expression, enriching the rhythmic and semantic depth of his poetry. The varied application of softened rhyme schemes emerges as a prominent stylistic feature, encouraging readers to ponder over the implications and meanings of his poetic lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This randomized clinical trial study aims to compare ultrasound‐guided versus non‐guided Dextrose 10% injections in patients suffering from internal derangement in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Material and Methods: The study population included 22 patients and 43 TMJs suffering from unilateral or bilateral TMJ painful clicking, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) proved disc displacement with reduction (DDWR), refractory to or failed conservative treatment. The patients were divided randomly into two groups (non‐guided and ultrasound (US)‐guided groups). The procedure involved injection of 2 mL solution of a mixture of 0.75 mL 0.9% normal saline solution, 0.3 mL 2% lidocaine and 0.75 mL dextrose 10% using a 25G needle in the joint and 1 mL intramuscular injection to the masseter muscle at the most tender point. The Visual Analogue Score (VAS) was used to compare joint pain intensity over four different periods, beginning with pre‐injection, 1‐, 2‐, and 6‐months postinjection. Results: Twenty‐two patients 5 males (n = 5/22, 22.7%) and 17 females (n = 17/22, 77.2%) were included in this study. The mean age was 27.3 ± 7.4 years (30.2 ± 7.0) for the non‐guided group and 24.3 ± 6.9 for the US‐guided group. The dextrose injection reduced intensity over time in both groups with statistically significant improvement (P value <.05) at 2 and 6 months in both groups. There was no statistically significant difference in VAS assessment between both groups. Conclusion: Intra‐articular injection of dextrose 10% for patients with painful clicking and DDWR resulted in reduced pain intensity in both US‐guided and non‐guided groups with significant symptomatic improvement over time in both groups. US guidance allowed accurate anatomical localization and safe procedure with a single joint puncture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative delirium (POD), an acute and variable disturbance in cognitive function, is an intricate and elusive phenomenon that occurs after cardiac surgery. Despite progress in surgical techniques and perioperative management, POD remains a formidable challenge, imposing a significant burden on patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems. Methods: This prospective observational study involved 307 patients who underwent cardiac surgery. Data on the occurrence of delirium, clinical parameters, and postoperative characteristics were collected. A multivariate analysis was performed to assess the relationship between POH and POD. Results: Sixty-one patients (21%) developed delirium, with an average onset of approximately 5 days postoperatively and a duration of approximately 6 days. On multivariate analysis, POH was significantly associated with POD, and the adjusted odds ratios indicated that patients with POH were more likely to develop delirium (OR, 5.61; p = 0.006). Advanced age (OR, 1.11; p = 0.002), emergency surgery (OR, 8.31; p = 0.001), and on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting were identified as risk factors of POD. Patients who developed delirium were typically older, more likely to be male, and had higher morbidity rates than those who did not. Conclusion: POH is significantly associated with delirium in critically ill patients after cardiac surgery. Surgical complexity and advanced age contribute to the risk of developing POD and poor postoperative outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The roll bonding of an experimental Al-2%Cu-2%Mn alloy with technically pure 1050A aluminum at true deformations of 0.26, 0.33 and 0.40 has been simulated using the QForm 10.3.0 FEM software. The flow stress of the Al-2%Cu-2%Mn alloy has been measured in temperature and strain rate ranges of 350–450 °C and 0.1–20 s−1, respectively. The simulation results suggest that the equivalent strain in the cladding layer is more intense than that in the base layer, reaching 1.0, 1.4 and 2.0 at strains of 0.26, 0.33 and 0.40, respectively. The latter fact favors a decrease in the difference between the flow stresses of the rolled sheet layer contact surfaces by an average of 25% at the highest strain. The experimental roll bonding has achieved good layer adhesion for all the test samples. The average peeling strength of the samples produced at strains of 0.26 and 0.33 proves to be 12.6 and 18.4 N/mm, respectively, and at a strain of 0.40, it has exceeded the flow stress of the 1050A alloy cladding layer. The change in the rolling force for different rolling routes has demonstrated the best fit with the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aloe perryi has been studied and possesses several activities, including antibacterial, antiparasitic, and anticancer properties. In this study, A. perryi was used as a reducing agent of silver ions into silver nanoparticles. Aloe perryi–silver nanoparticles (APS‐NPs) were characterized and evaluated using characterization techniques. However, the antioxidative, antibacterial, and anticancer assays were studied to evaluate the pharmacological activities of APS‐NPs. APS‐NPs were developed and changed to dark brown and the maximum absorption was 442 nm. SEM (5–583 nm), TEM (4–110 nm), XRD (21.84 nm), and zeta potential analysis (63.39 nm) revealed that the APS‐NPs were nano‐sized, and the APS‐NPs had a cubic crystalline structure, according to the XRD results. FTIR analysis suggested that functional groups of A. perryi metabolites were involved in forming APS‐NPs. The zeta potential indicated that the APS‐NPs were negatively charged (−32 mV), suggesting good stability. APS‐NPs showed significant antioxidative stress activity by reducing DPPH‐free radicles in a dose‐dependent manner. APS‐NPs‐induced antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii). APS‐NPs reduced the cell viability and cell migration of the human colon tumor cell line (HCT 116) compared with controls, indicating that APS‐NPs could play a role in reducing metastasis and inducing cell apoptosis against colon cancer. In conclusion, the nanoparticle synthesis from A. perryi extract demonstrated excellent antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer activities, thus suggesting that our APS‐NPs have the potential to be used as antioxidative and antibacterial in food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a study on the daily reliability analysis of a full-scale activated sludge wastewater treatment plant located in Northern Jordan. The coefficient of reliability (COR) is calculated to assess the performance of the plant in regard of wastewater concentrations of COD, BOD5, and TSS. The results indicate that the global effluent performances for COD, BOD5, and TSS comply with Jordanian standards. However, the BOD5 performance is found to be below the quality level due to issues in the ventilation basin and exceeding treatment capacity, while the TSS performance is affected by problems in the grit chamber and variations in influent quality and quantity. The study fills a research gap by focusing on the reliability of wastewater treatment plants using activated sludge technology and utilizes a probabilistic model proposed by Niku et al., (1979) to evaluate the reliability. The findings provide valuable insights into the daily variability of the treatment plant and suggest measures for improving reliability and overall efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing fertility rates have become one of the factors that concern all people in the world. Therefore, the study aims to use two mutated strains of probiotics enriched with selenium (PSe40/60/1 and BSe50/20/1) to improve fertility. Thirty Swiss albino male mice were divided into three groups; control, LP + S was given Lactobacillus plantarum PSe40/60/1 plus selenium, and BL + S was given Bifidobacterium longum BSe50/20/1 plus selenium. Free testosterone, LH, and FSH were measured in serum by biochemical analysis. Testicular tissues were examined by histopathological analysis. The count and motility of sperm, and sperm abnormalities were determined by microscopic examination. The method of qRT-PCR was used to detect gene expression of Tspyl1, Hsd3b6, and Star genes. The biochemical results showed that serum content of free testosterone (FT) hormone had significantly increase in the BL + S and LP + S groups compared with control. Levels of LH and FSH hormones were the highest in the BL + S group. The treated groups showed all developmental stages of spermatogenesis, including spermatogenesis, spermatocytes, and seminiferous tubule spermatids, as well as intact Sertoli cells and Leydig cells without changes. When compared to the control group, sperm count and motility increased in the BL + S group, while sperm abnormalities decreased. The expression of Tspyl1 gene in testicular tissues decreased in the LP + S and BL + S groups, while the expression of Star and Hsd3b6 genes was higher in the BL + S group and lower in the LP + S group compared with the control group. Therefore, Bifidobacterium longum BSe50/20/1 enriched with selenium could be useful in enhancing male fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Jordan suffers from agricultural land degradation, water scarcity, increasing in population, and the huge gap between production and consumption. Boosting of food production to meet the demand is one of the solutions. Biofertilizers are substances include beneficial microorganisms (e.g., bacteria) that are important in agricultural soil to improve yield through different mechanisms. The aim of this experiment is to study the impact of using locally produced-microorganisms along with chemical fertilizers to improve the yield of cucumber planting. Methods: The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse equipped with all requirements for planting. The planting process of cucumber seedling was implemented using pots filled with soil collected from an agricultural land in the Jordan Valley, and mixed with manure, and categorized in three plots. Mixture of three types of microorganisms (STIMULANT A and B, and PHYTOEM) along with chemical fertilizers were applied to the soil in some pots. Plants growth and agricultural parameters were observed. Data about crop yield, water consumption, leaf area, and chlorophyll were collected. Lab analysis of soil characteristics was also done to assess the impact of the products on soil. Results: The results showed that the yield production was the maximum in the plot of combining the benefits of biological and the chemical fertilizers compared to the control plot by 48%. The same plot showed water saving with 32.4% over the control plot. The bacterial biofertilizers enhanced the seedling growth all the time during the experiment by 14% more than the plants in the control plot. The average leaves area in plot with bio-products was 22.6% bigger than the control plot. In addition, the chlorophyll test indicated that the chlorophyll content was more in plot with biofertilizers. According to the soil analysis, the presence of bacterial biofertilizers enhanced the plant’s absorption of nutrients, and accordingly the EC decreased in the soil. Discussion: The results of the experiment showed superiority of plot using the bacterial biofertilizers along with the chemical fertilizer, over the plots either using the chemical fertilizers alone or the bacterial biofertilizers alone. This can be attributed to the addition of bacterial biofertilizers with the chemical fertilizers in appropriate conditions. Our findings highlight the potential for bacterial biofertilizers to significantly improve crop yields and resource efficiency, contributing to food system transformation. This aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), by offering sustainable agricultural solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional study aimed to estimate the relationship between food insecurity (FI) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with celiac disease (CD) and assess whether this relationship is mediated or moderated by adherence to the gluten-free diet (GFD). The results of 1162 samples of patients diagnosed with CD showed that 8.3% of individuals who have a combined score of less than 13 exhibited excellent or very good adherence to the GFD. Furthermore, moderate and fair to poor adherence to the GFD was demonstrated, respectively and 71.9% of the patients had poor HRQoL levels. A significant and moderate positive correlation between FI and GFD adherence (r = 0.489) was found, indicating that 24% of the variance in FI is shared with GFD adherence. The patients' gender, marital status, and monthly income made statistically significant contributions to the prediction (p < 0.05). Females had significantly lower HRQoL scores than males (B = −4.619, 95% CL: −6.08, −3.16) after holding all other variables constant. In conclusion, FI is mediated by GFD adherence to HRQoL. Moreover, a significant total effect relation was found between HRQoL and both FI and GFD adherence, suggesting that lowering symptoms and complications associated with CD may reduce the impact of FI on HRQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Escherichia coli is a major human pathogen responsible for a broad range of clinical illnesses. It has been linked to endemic and epidemic nosocomial diseases caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens in Sudan as well as throughout the globe. Case presentation: A 76-year-old African woman arrived at Saad Rashwan Medical Centre complaining of backaches and discomfort during urination. Throughout the preceding 5 years, the patient had recurrent urinary tract infections. Following overnight incubation at 37 °C, Escherichia coli was found in her midstream urine specimen on cysteine lactose electrolyte deficient agar media. Minimum inhibitory concentration (colorimetric/turbidimetric method) was employed to test a wide range of antimicrobial drugs against this bacterial strain, and the results revealed significant multidrug resistance. QIAamp® DNA Mini Kit was used to obtain DNA Template from the purified Escherichia coli (Qiagen, Hilden, Germany). The bacterial whole-genome sequence was done by Novogene company (Hong Kong) using Illumina HiSeq 2500 (Illumina, San Diego, CA, USA), followed by whole genome reconstructions, and identification of antibiotic-resistant genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that our strain was related to the Escherichia coli DSM30083 (genome sequence ID: CP033092.2) from the USA. Our strain possessed the following antimicrobial-resistant genes: aminoglycoside (kdpE, baeR, cpxA, aadA5), nitroimidazole (msbA), phosphonic acid (mdtG), tetracycline (emrY), macrolide, penam, tetracycline, (evgA, TolC, H-NS), fluoroquinolone, cephalosporin, glycylcycline, penam, tetracycline, rifamycin, phenicol antibiotic, disinfecting agents and antiseptics (acrB; marA), sulfonamide (sul1), macrolide (Mrx), cephalosporin, penam (CTX-M-15), carbapenem, cephalosporin, and penam (OXA-1). Conclusion: This study found that the isolated Escherichia coli strain had varied antimicrobial resistance genes on the basis of whole-genome sequencing and phenotypic resistance analyses. Whole-genome sequencing is critical for control and preventative methods to battle the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. A larger investigation is recommended for improved generalization of results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of platelet function analyzer (PFA) and The International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis bleeding‐assessment‐tool (ISTH‐BAT) in detecting mild inherited platelet function disorders (IPFDs) in children with suspected bleeding disorders. Methods: Prospective single‐center diagnostic study including consecutive patients <18 years with suspected bleeding disorder and performing a standardized workup for platelet function defects including ISTH‐BAT, PFA, platelet aggregation testing, blood smear‐based immunofluorescence, and next‐generation sequencing‐based genetic screening for IPFDs. Results: We studied 97 patients, of which 34 von Willebrand disease (VWD, 22 type‐1, 11 type‐2), 29 IPFDs (including delta−/alpha‐storage pool disease, Glanzmann thrombasthenia, Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome) and 34 with no diagnosis. In a model combining PFA‐adenosine diphosphate (ADP), PFA‐epinephrine (EPI), and ISTH‐BAT overall performance to diagnose IPFDs was low with area under the curves of 0.56 (95% CI 0.44, 0.69) compared with 0.84 (95% CI 0.76, 0.92) for VWD. Correlation of PFA‐EPI/‐ADP and ISTH‐BAT was low with 0.25/0.39 Spearman's correlation coefficients. PFA were significantly prolonged in patients with VWD and Glanzmann thrombasthenia. ISTH‐BAT‐scores were only positive in severe bleeding disorders, but not in children with mild IPFDs or VWD. Conclusion: Neither ISTH‐BAT nor PFA or the combination of both help diagnosing mild IPFDs in children. PFA is suited to exclude severe IPFDs or VWD and is in this regard superior to ISTH‐BAT in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jordan experienced flash floods that resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. This research focuses on identifying the Wadi Mujib's flash flood potential zones and evaluating their potential magnitude. In this work, hydrological models were developed by integrating GIS settings with HEC-HMS software (V. 4.11). The hydrological model for Wadi Mujib is simulated in this research by means of the Soil Conservation Service (curve number method) while using rainfall data from 1970 to 2022. The results show that the optimum curve number values (CN) were 78.5 at normal antecedent moisture content. Additionally, in order to aid in the decision-making process for flash flood warnings, a flash flood potential index (FFPI) was also introduced based on four main physiographic parameters (slope, land use, plant cover, and soil texture) ranging from 1 to 10. The accumulative chart's FFPI threshold, which indicates the areas with the highest potential for flash floods, was set at 95% or above. The FFPI threshold was chosen using the accumulative chart of FFPI, which shows that the FFPM threshold value is 7 and covers 13.39% of the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anyone knowledgeable about Qur'anic Arabic words in general and the Qurʾānic Arabic words of l-faḍli الْفَضْ لِ) in particular, can easily and appropriately deduce that the Holy Qur'an denotes meaning that cannot go along with any level of fulfillment through only one translation. Thus, this paper aimed at identifying the loss and gain in the rendering of the words of l-faḍli الْفَِضْ لِ in Qurʾānic Arabic through the examination of three translations of the Holy Qur'ān by Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall (1930), Muhammad Muhsin Khan and Muhammad Taqi-ud-Din al-Hilali (1996), and Muhammad Abdel Haleem (2004). A qualitative descriptive paradigm was employed coupled with Baker's typology of equivalence between Arabic and English. The study showed that in the context of the loss and gain in the translation of the Qurʾānic Arabic l-faḍliِ اِلْفَضْ لِ into English, the aforementioned translators employed various translation strategies such as balanced translation, explication, free translation, and literal translation. The study found that the Holy Qurʾān in general and the Qurʾānic Arabic l-faḍli الْفَضْ لِ in particular inevitably demand to be rendered in a historical and enlightening language environment and linguistic context for efficient communication and understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) contamination of soils is a major agricultural and environmental concern. Biochar (BC) is well known for enhancing crop production, while incorporating lignin (LN) with BC for decreasing Cd uptake and availability has not been studied. Herein, we investigated the effects of LN+BC under different irrigation regimes on Cd uptake, soil properties, and maize growth in Cd-contaminated soil. We used three irrigation regimens as main treatments: 60%, 80%, and 100% of evapotranspiration (ET0). Sub-treatments were soil amendments consisting of 5% BC, 5% LN+BC, and control (CK). Results showed that 60% and 80% irrigation regimens increased Cd concentrations in plant parts while LN+BC application decreased Cd uptake. However, LN+BC and BC significantly decreased Cd uptake across all irrigation regimes. The combination of LN+BC was found to be more efficient in reducing Cd uptake. The order of Cd concentration in plant tissues was as follows: CK > BC > LN+BC. LN+BC significantly increased relative leaf water content (LRWC), membrane stability index (MSI), all growth indicators, and yield attributes compared to CK. Among organic amendments, LN+BC improved grain quality by increasing starch grains, decreasing protein matrix, enhancing side scattered (SSC), and forward scattered (FSC) light signals, followed by BC and CK. The incorporation of LN+BC boosted soil pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and organic matter (OM). Combining BC and LN can minimize Cd phytoavailability, enhance soil quality, and boost crop growth in contaminated agricultural soils. This study suggests that a combination of LN and BC can be added as an organic amendment in Cd-contaminated soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to apply machine learning (ML) to identify new financial elements managers might use for earnings management (EM), assessing their impact on the Standard Jones Model and modified Jones model for EM detection and examining managerial motives for using these components. Design/methodology/approach: Using eXtreme gradient boosting on 23,310 the US firm-year observations from 2012 to2021, the study pinpoints nine financial variables potentially used for earnings manipulation, not covered by traditional accruals models. Findings: Cost of goods sold and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization are identified as the most significant for EM, with relative importances of 40.2% and 11.5%, respectively. Research limitations/implications: The study's scope, limited to a specific data set and timeframe, and the exclusion of some financial variables may impact the findings' broader applicability. Practical implications: The results are crucial for researchers, practitioners, regulators and investors, offering strategies for detecting and addressing EM. Social implications: Insights from the study advocate for greater financial transparency and integrity in businesses. Originality/value: By incorporating ML in EM detection and spotlighting overlooked financial variables, the research brings fresh perspectives and opens new avenues for further exploration in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE Information about social determinants of health (SDOH) is essential for primary care clinicians in the delivery of equitable, comprehensive care, as well as for program planning and resource allocation. SDOH are rarely captured consistently in clinical settings, however. Artificial intelligence (AI) could potentially fill these data gaps, but it needs to be designed collaboratively and thoughtfully. We report on a codesign process with primary care clinicians to understand how an AI tool could be developed, implemented, and used in practice. METHODS We conducted semistructured, 50-minute workshops with a large urban family health team in Toronto, Ontario, Canada asking their feedback on a proposed AI-based tool used to derive patient SDOH from electronic health record data. An inductive thematic analysis was used to describe participants' perspectives regarding the implementation and use of the proposed tool. RESULTS Fifteen participants contributed across 4 workshops. Most patient SDOH information was not available or was difficult to find in their electronic health record. Discussions focused on 3 areas related to the implementation and use of an AI tool to derive social data: people, process, and technology. Participants recommended starting with 1 or 2 social determinants (income and housing were suggested as priorities) and emphasized the need for adequate resources, staff, and training materials. They noted many challenges, including how to discuss the use of AI with patients and how to confirm their social needs identified by the AI tool. CONCLUSIONS Our codesign experience provides guidance from end users on the appropriate and meaningful design and implementation of an AI-based tool for social data in primary care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil's hydraulic properties are an essential characteristic that influences the hydrologic cycle by influencing infiltration and runoff and the transport of soil water and salt in the process of vegetation rehabilitation in coastal saline soils. To date, few studies have specifically addressed the soil's hydraulic properties and root–soil interactions of coastal saline soil under revegetation. This study aimed to identify the unique hydraulic characteristics of soil, the pore size distribution parameter, Gardner α, and the different contributions of soil's physical properties and vegetation's root morphological characteristics with regard to soil infiltration. For this purpose, disc infiltration experiments at different pressure heads were performed on three vegetation types, Salix matsudana (SM), Hibiscus syriacus (HC), and Sabina vulgaris (SV), after two years of vegetation rehabilitation. The results demonstrated that the initial and steady infiltration rate, Gardner α, and soil porosity fraction exhibit significant differences among the three plant species. A correlation analysis indicated that the soil water content, surface area, density, and dry weight of roots had inverse relationships with soil infiltration at heads of pressure of 0 cm and 9 cm. The regulation of soil infiltration was influenced by the root dry weight and root average diameter, which played crucial roles in determining the roots' morphological properties and the formation of pathways and soil pores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wildfires are significant natural hazards threatening lives, property, and the environment. Modeling and predicting wildfire spread are crucial for effective fire management and mitigation efforts. This study evaluates the performance of three famous algorithms for predicting wildfire spread, Cellular Automata (CA), FlamMap, and Convolutional LSTM (ConvLSTM) network in the Golestan National Park (GNP), a part of the Hyrcanian forest and one of the most fire-prone areas. The fuel models in the study area were selected based on the Scott and Burgan models (Standard fire behavior fuel models: A comprehensive set for use with Rothermel's surface fire spread model (p. 153), 2005) list for each algorithm. The CA algorithm also considered the vegetation stand characteristics to determine the fuel type and density values. The training data for the ConvLSTM was created by conducting 325 fire simulations using FlamMap and BehavePlus fire modeling systems. The results showed that the ConvLSTM algorithm outperformed the other two algorithms regarding overall accuracy, Kappa and Sorensen coefficient. The ConvLSTM algorithm showed the highest values of the Sorensen coefficient for all three fires, ranging from 0.78 to 0.82, whereas, FlamMap and CA had underestimation and overestimation rates, respectively. Regarding the rate of spread, the CA algorithm performed better than the other algorithms. This study provides insights into the performance of different algorithms for predicting burned areas and the rate of spread in wildfires, which can help improve wildfire management and mitigation efforts in fire-prone areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil salinity is a significant challenge in agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions such as Pakistan, leading to soil degradation and reduced crop yields. The present study assessed the impact of different salinity levels (0, 25, and 50 mmol NaCl) and biochar treatments (control, wheat-straw biochar, rice-husk biochar, and sawdust biochar applied @ 1% w/w) on the germination and growth performance of wheat. Two experiments: a germination study and a pot experiment (grown up to maturity), were performed. The results showed that NaCl-stress negatively impacted the germination parameters, grain, and straw yield, and agronomic and soil parameters. Biochar treatments restored these parameters compared to control (no biochar), but the effects were inconsistent across NaCl levels. Among the different biochars, wheat-straw biochar performed better than rice-husk and sawdust-derived biochar regarding germination and agronomic parameters. Biochar application notably increased soil pHs and electrical conductivity (ECe). Imposing NaCl stress reduced K concentrations in the wheat shoot and grains with concomitant higher Na concentrations in both parts. Parameters like foliar chlorophyll content (a, b, and total), stomatal and sub-stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate were also positively influenced by biochar addition. The study confirmed that biochar, particularly wheat-straw biochar, effectively mitigated the adverse effects of soil salinity, enhancing both soil quality and wheat growth. The study highlighted that biochar application can minimize the negative effects of salinity stress on wheat. Specifically, the types and dosages of biochar have to be optimized for different salinity levels under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transmembrane protein Agp2, initially shown as a transporter of L-carnitine, mediates the high-affinity transport of polyamines and the anticancer drug bleomycin-A5. Cells lacking Agp2 are hyper-resistant to polyamine and bleomycin-A5. In these earlier studies, we showed that the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide blocked the uptake of bleomycin-A5 into the cells suggesting that the drug uptake system may require de novo synthesis. However, our recent findings demonstrated that cycloheximide, instead, induced rapid degradation of Agp2, and in the absence of Agp2 cells are resistant to cycloheximide. These observations raised the possibility that the degradation of Agp2 may allow the cell to alter its drug resistance network to combat the toxic effects of cycloheximide. In this study, we show that membrane extracts from agp2Δ mutants accentuated several proteins that were differentially expressed in comparison to the parent. Mass spectrometry analysis of the membrane extracts uncovered the pleiotropic drug efflux pump, Pdr5, involved in the efflux of cycloheximide, as a key protein upregulated in the agp2Δ mutant. Moreover, a global gene expression analysis revealed that 322 genes were differentially affected in the agp2Δ mutant versus the parent, including the prominent PDR5 gene and genes required for mitochondrial function. We further show that Agp2 is associated with the upstream region of the PDR5 gene, leading to the hypothesis that cycloheximide resistance displayed by the agp2Δ mutant is due to the derepression of the PDR5 gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD) is a vital index for evaluating crop nutritional status and serves as an essential parameter characterizing the reproductive growth status of winter wheat. Non-destructive and accurate monitorin3g of winter wheat SPAD plays a crucial role in guiding precise management of crop nutrition. In recent years, the spectral saturation problem occurring in the later stage of crop growth has become a major factor restricting the accuracy of SPAD estimation. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to use features selection strategy to optimize sensitive remote sensing information, combined with features fusion strategy to integrate multiple characteristic features, in order to improve the accuracy of estimating wheat SPAD. This study conducted field experiments of winter wheat with different varieties and nitrogen treatments, utilized UAV multispectral sensors to obtain canopy images of winter wheat during the heading, flowering, and late filling stages, extracted spectral features and texture features from multispectral images, and employed features selection strategy (Boruta and Recursive Feature Elimination) to prioritize sensitive remote sensing features. The features fusion strategy and the Support Vector Machine Regression algorithm are applied to construct the SPAD estimation model for winter wheat. The results showed that the spectral features of NIR band combined with other bands can fully capture the spectral differences of winter wheat SPAD during the reproductive growth stage, and texture features of the red and NIR band are more sensitive to SPAD. During the heading, flowering, and late filling stages, the stability and estimation accuracy of the SPAD model constructed using both features selection strategy and features fusion strategy are superior to models using only a single feature strategy or no strategy. The enhancement of model accuracy by this method becomes more significant, with the greatest improvement observed during the late filling stage, with R² increasing by 0.092-0.202, root mean squared error (RMSE) decreasing by 0.076-4.916, and ratio of performance to deviation (RPD) increasing by 0.237-0.960. In conclusion, this method has excellent application potential in estimating SPAD during the later stages of crop growth, providing theoretical basis and technical support for precision nutrient management of field crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutaneous paraneoplastic syndromes due to Hodgkin lymphoma present with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations from generalized pruritus to exfoliative erythroderma. We summarize the clinical findings and outcomes of 14 patients with Hodgkin lymphoma and associated cutaneous paraneoplastic syndromes treated at Mayo Clinic over the past 3 decades. Cutaneous paraneoplastic syndromes may be present at the time of lymphoma diagnosis, whereas in other patients, it may appear at the time of relapse, including patients with initial absence of cutaneous manifestations during the initial lymphoma presentation. Our results indicate that complete resolution of the paraneoplastic syndrome is associated with significantly improved overall survival. Recognition of cutaneous paraneoplastic syndromes is a crucial surrogate of relapsed malignancy and treatment requires targeting the underlying malignancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Southwestern China is receiving excessive chemical fertilizers to meet the challenges of continuous cropping. These practices are deteriorating the soil environment and affecting tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) yield and quality adversely. A novel microbially enriched biochar-based fertilizer was synthesized using effective microorganisms, tobacco stalk biochar and basal fertilizer. A field-scale study was conducted to evaluate the yield response of tobacco grown on degraded soil amended with our novel biochar-based microbial fertilizer (BF). Four treatments of BF (0%, 1.5%, 2.5% and 5%) were applied in the contaminated field to grow tobacco. The application of BF1.5, BF2.5 and BF5.0 increased the available water contents by 9.47%, 1.18% and 2.19% compared to that with BF0 respectively. Maximum growth of tobacco in terms of plant height and leaf area was recorded for BF1.5 compared to BF0. BF1.5, BF2.5 and BF5.0 increased SPAD by 13.18–40.53%, net photosynthetic rate by 5.44–60.42%, stomatal conductance by 8.33–44.44%, instantaneous water use efficiency by 55.41–93.24% and intrinsic water use efficiency by 0.09–24.11%, while they decreased the intercellular CO2 concentration and transpiration rate by 3.85–6.84% and 0.29–47.18% relative to BF0, respectively (p < 0.05). The maximum increase in tobacco yield was recorded with BF1.5 (23.81%) compared to that with BF0. The present study concludes that the application of BF1.5 improves and restores the degraded soil by improving the hydraulic conductivity and by increasing the tobacco yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Retinal artery occlusions lead to sudden, painless vision loss, affecting millions globally. Despite their significance, treatment strategies remain unestablished, contrasting with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), where IVT has proven efficacy. Similar to AIS, retinal artery occlusions demand urgent evaluation and treatment, reflecting the principle "time is retina". Even for patients with transient monocular vision loss, also known as amaurosis fugax (AF), pertinent guidelines meanwhile recommend immediate emergency assessment in a specialized facility. However, data on the clinical benefit and comparability with persistent occlusions are missing. This study aimed to compare the results of a comprehensive stroke-workup among patients with persistent retinal artery occlusions (RAO), including both central retinal (CRAO) and branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) and those with AF. Methods: Conducted at the University Hospital Giessen, Germany, this exploratory cross-sectional study enrolled patients with transient or permanent unilateral vision loss of non-arteritic origin. The primary outcome were differences between the two groups RAO and AF with regard to cardiovascular risk profiles and comorbidities, vascular and pharmacological interventions and clinical neurological and ophthalmological outcomes. Secondary outcome was a sub-group analysis of patients receiving IVT. Results: Out of 166 patients assessed, 76 with RAO and 40 with AF met the inclusion criteria. Both groups exhibited comparable age, gender distribution, and cardiovascular risk profiles. Notably, RAO patients did not show significantly more severe vascular comorbidities than AF patients. However, AF patients received vascular interventions more frequently. Pharmacological intervention rates were similar across groups. RAO patients had slightly worse neurological outcomes, and IVT did not yield favorable ophthalmological outcomes within any observed patients. Conclusion: The study found similar vascular burden and risk factors in patients with RAO and AF, with implications for clinical workflows. IVT for RAO may only be effective in very early treatment windows. This emphasizes the need for public awareness and collaborative protocols between ophthalmologists and neurologists to improve outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycetoma is a serious, destructive, disfiguring chronic granulomatous inflammatory disease affecting the subcutaneous tissues that spread to involve the skin, deep tissues and bone. The disease predominately affects the limbs, and extrapedal mycetoma is rarely reported. The reported extrapedal ones are characterised by high morbidity and mortality. This communication reports on 420 patients with extrapedal mycetoma seen and managed at the Mycetoma Research Centre (MRC), University of Khartoum, between January 1991 and December 2021. In this descriptive, cross-sectional, hospital-based study, the electronic records of all mycetoma-confirmed patients seen during the study period were carefully and meticulously reviewed. The confirmed patients with extrapedal mycetoma were included in this study. The study included 420 patients with extrapedal mycetoma, 298 (70.7%) had eumycetoma, and 122 (29.3%) had actinomycetoma. There were 343 male patients (81.7%) and 77 (18.3%) females, with a male-to-female ratio of 4:1. Their ages ranged between 1.5 and 95 years, with a median of 28 years. Most of the patients were students and farmers. The majority of patients were from El Gezira, North Kordofan, and the White Nile States. Mycetoma was painful in 21%, and a family history of mycetoma was recorded in 11.5% of patients. The buttocks (37.9%) and head and neck (16.9%) were affected most. Less frequently affected sites were the trunk and back (12%) each, abdominal and chest walls (4.5%) each and loin (1%). The prominent clinical presentation findings were multiple sinuses discharging grains (55%), massive swellings (46%), and lymphadenopathy (11.5%). Less commonly observed clinical findings were local hyperhidrosis (5.3%) and dilated tortuous veins close to mycetoma lesions (0.5%). The study showed that 204 patients (48.6%) had clinical improvement in terms of decreased lesion size and healing of sinuses following medical therapy. Sixty-six patients (15.7%) had no noticeable improvement. The lesion continued progressing despite treatment in 44 patients (10.5%). In the study, 118 patients were on regular follow-up, and in this group, a cure was documented in 25 patients (21.1%) with eumycetoma and 23 (19.4%) with actinomycetoma. Post-operative recurrence among eumycetoma patients was 40%, with a 1% mortality rate. The treatment outcome was unsatisfactory, characterised by a low cure rate, high recurrence (40%) and follow-up dropout (57%) rates. This emphasises the importance of early case detection and management, objective health education programmes and thorough patient counselling to urge people to seek treatment early and reduce dropouts. Author summary: This communication reports on 420 patients with extrapedal mycetoma seen at the Mycetoma Research Centre, Khartoum, Sudan, from January 1991 to December 2021. Males were predominantly affected. Their ages ranged between 1.5 and 95 years; most were students and farmers. The majority of patients were from El Gezira, North Kordofan and White Nile States. Family history of mycetoma was recorded in only a few. The buttock was affected most, followed by the head, neck, back, chest, and abdominal wall. The prominent clinical presentation findings were massive lesions with multiple sinuses discharging grains and lymphadenopathy. Eumycetoma was the most encountered type. The treatment outcome was unsatisfactory, characterised by a low cure rate and high recurrence and follow-up dropout rates. This emphasises the importance of early case detection and management, health education programmes, and patient counselling to encourage them to seek treatment early and reduce poor treatment outcomes and dropouts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diet and physical activity (PA) are pivotal behaviors for managing energy balance post-bariatric surgery. Given the need for dual behavioral management, understanding the interplay of cognitive factors influencing these behaviors is crucial. This study applied the compensatory carry-over action model (CCAM) to explore the impact of cognitive factors on behaviors and their subsequent effects on subjective health outcomes. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among patients at the third month after bariatric surgery in China. Data on diet and PA status, behavioral cognitive factors (intention, self-efficacy, compensatory belief, transfer cognition), and subjective health outcomes (perceived stress, well-being, quality of life) were collected. Structural equation model (SEM) was employed to test hypotheses in CCAM and assess mediation relationships. Results: Analysis of data from 239 patients revealed the following: (1) Among antecedent cognitive factors, only compensatory belief significantly influenced diet (P< 0.001). (2) Intention and self-efficacy directly correlated with their respective behaviors, while compensatory belief affected intention, and transfer cognition impacted self-efficacy (P< 0.05), aligning with CCAM hypotheses. (3) PA demonstrated significant influence only on perceived stress (P=0.004), whereas diet significantly affected all subjective health outcomes (P< 0.05). (4) Mediation analysis indicated intention partially mediated the relationship between compensatory belief and diet and fully mediated the relationship between compensatory belief and PA. Self-efficacy completely mediated the relationship between transfer cognition and diet and PA. Conclusion: Transfer cognition's carry-over effect did not directly influence behaviors among antecedent cognitions. Interventions should primarily target improving diet by mitigating compensatory belief. Moreover, diet exhibited a more pronounced impact on overall health compared to PA. Consequently, prioritizing dietary intervention over PA intervention is warranted based on the analysis of CCAM and the aim of promoting joint behaviors post-bariatric surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic groin pain following inguinal hernia repair can be troublesome. The current literature is limited, especially from Asia and Africa. We aimed to evaluate patient‐reported outcomes using the Carolinas Comfort Scale (CCS) following inguinal hernia repair at an international level, especially to include patients from Asia and Africa. Methods: An international cohort of surgeons was invited to collaborate and collect data of consecutive adult patients who underwent inguinal hernia repair. The data were collected to allow at least 2 years of follow‐up. A total score for CCS was calculated and compared for the following groups—patient age <30 years versus (vs.) > 30 years; open versus laparoscopic repair, emergency versus elective surgery, and unilateral versus bilateral hernia repair. The CCS scores between Asia, Africa, and Europe were also compared. Results: The mean total CCS score of patients operated in Asia (n = 891), Europe (n = 853), and Africa (n = 157) were 7.32, 14.6, and 19.79, respectively. The total CCS score was significantly higher following open repair, emergency repair, and unilateral repair, with surgical site infections (SSI) and recurrence. In the subgroup analysis, the patients who underwent elective open repair in Europe had higher CCS scores than those in Asia. Conclusion: About 15% of patients had a CCS score of more than 25 after a minimum follow‐up of 2 years. The factors that influence CCS scores are indication, approach, complications, and geographic location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have revealed that sex can predict differences in multiple aspects of atrial fibrillation (AF). These differences are underreported in the Middle East. This study aims to describe sex-specific differences in risk factors, symptomatology, management, and outcomes in Middle Eastern patients with AF. The JoFib (Jordan-Atrial-Fibrillation) study is an observational, prospective, multicenter, nationwide registry in AF. Comparisons were made between female and male patients using Pearson chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests. Multivariable regression models were constructed to investigate whether the female sex was predictive of any AF-related outcomes (all-cause death, cardiovascular death, ischemic stroke or systemic embolism [IS/SE], major bleeding, and clinically relevant non-major bleeding). Of 2,020 patients with AF, 54% (n = 1091) were females. Females with AF were older (median age 71 vs. 69, p <.001), but had less heart failure (20.9% vs. 27.2%, p =.001) and coronary artery disease (7.5% vs. 14.7%, p <.001). Females with AF were more symptomatic (74.7% vs. 66.5%, p <.001) and frequently received anticoagulant therapy (84.4% vs. 78.9%, p =.001). Rhythm control was pursued less frequently in females (23.4% vs. 27.3%, p =.04). All studied outcomes occurred with similar frequencies in females and males, and sex was not significantly predictive of any outcome. Females with AF are more symptomatic, yet they are treated less with rhythm control. Despite higher risk, females have similar risk-adjusted all-cause cardiovascular death and stroke rates compared to males. Future studies should explore how treatments and interventions can influence quality-of-life and cardiovascular outcomes in females with AF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the influence of the community-based campaign on weight loss and healthy lifestyle adoption among Bahrain's adult population. Design/methodology/approach: A cross -sectional self-reported online questionnaire completed in February 2021. The survey evaluated the impact of the community-based campaign health program which includes (exercise, diet plan and psychological eating behavior) weight reduction using social media platforms. The authors employed data from young and middle-aged healthy adults (n = 842) between the ages of 18-55 years, of both sexes. The intervention group (n = 842) was made up of the supporters of the voluntary community initiative called Obesity does not Suit Me (n = 194), and the control group (n = 648) was made up of non-followers of the campaign. Findings: The study showed a statistically significant difference among the followers of the community-based campaign health program in the following parameters: 3.90-4.23 kg less, 1.46-1.59 difference in BMI and 0.05-0.06 WHR. All changes were of low effect size. Originality/value: Diet and exercise had significant impact on weight, BMI and WHR among the followers of the community campaign. However, more research is required for sponsorship to increase the motivation and rewards for the community campaign. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underling the key motivational factors of tourists are very significant in tourism destination marketing. The current study aimed to introduce a new insight in destination management through exploring the main motivational factors behind foreign tourists to visit Saudi. Self administrative questionnaire was distributed among a random sample of tourists visited Saudi. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM-PLS) was applied to analysis the data. The results indicated that five motivational factors influence on behavior intention to visit Saudi. However, the model applied in the study has the potential to be used in similar studies conducted in various destinations worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Regardless of its distinction for touring and tourism communication, the subject of machine translation has not been dealt with regarding tourism investigation. This study aims to bridge this gap in knowledge by exploring machine translation (MT) technology in the development of tourism translation from the perspectives of translators and translation experts in Saudi Arabia. To attain the three objectives of the study, the researcher applied the quantitative approach. For data gathering, a 12-item opinion poll was disseminated among a random sample group that consisted of 80 translators and translation experts who were selected at random from several Saudi universities, top translation services companies, and tourism organizations during the current academic year 1445/AH/2024 CE. The findings of this study discovered that many translators and translation experts had positive perspectives on utilizing machine translation (MT) technology in the development of tourism translation around the world today in general and Saudi Arabia in particular. Moreover, the perspectives of these translators and translation experts on the difficulties and intricacy confronted in applying machine translation (MT) technology in the tourism translation industry were highly positive. Over half of the participants (51.42%) perceived that machine translation (MT) can help overcome obstacles encountered by translators in the field of tourism. The findings revealed that translators and translation experts in the realm of the tourism industry have a promising future thanks to the relationship between machine translation (MT) and tourism translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]