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Automotive radiators are primarily utilized in vehicles to dissipate the heat generated by the engine block into the surrounding. Utilizing coolants with superior thermophysical properties reduces the engine power consumption and improves the cooling engine performance. Comprehending the correlation between coolant characteristics and its thermohydraulic behavior is essential for advancing this innovative cooling technology. This investigation introduces a detailed parametric study of an automotive radiator using diversified coolant mixtures. Ethylene glycol (EG)/water mixtures, namely, (40:60), (50:50), and (60:40) are utilized as a coolant. The influences of the operational mechanism parameters, that is, inlet coolant temperature, intake air temperature, airflow rate, coolant flowrate, and coolant mixture ratio on the effectiveness, heat transfer, and fluid flow characteristics of the radiator are investigated. A thermohydraulic coupled model, based on the effectiveness‐NTU and thermal resistance theories, are developed for simulation of the investigated radiator. The outcomes revealed that the heat transfer rate is more significantly influenced by the inlet temperatures of the coolant and air than by the flowrate. Findings reveal optimal conditions for radiator design to be a coolant mixture of (40 EG:60 Water), coolant mixture Reynolds number of 1087.5, air Reynolds number of 2175, 11°C air‐intake temperature, and 94.25°C coolant mixture temperature for engine cooling maximization. The findings also indicated optimum mixture yielded the maximum advantage ratio (AR) and heat transfer with lowest pumping power, which achieved 7.94% and 19.30% higher AR compared to (50:50) and (60:40) mixture solutions, respectively. From energy consumption reduction prospective, the optimal EG/water coolant mixture results in a reduction in pumping power by 25.11% and 49.77%, compared to the (50:50) and (60:40) mixtures, respectively, under the same optimal operating conditions. Conclusively, the optimized automotive radiator design explored in this study offers a promising approach to improving vehicle technology and increasing cooling efficiency in internal combustion engines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measurement of patients' dosages of radiation caused by medical diagnostics continues to be challenging. A Cantor sequence photonic crystal structure using porous silicon doped with a polymer of polyvinyl alcohol, carbol fuchsin and crystal violet (DPV) is proposed. The influence rules of geometrical and optical parameters such as the radiation doses, number of periods, porosity of porous layers, incident angle and thickness of layers are investigated using MATLAB based on the transfer matrix method. The transmittance of the Cantor sequence of a defective photonic crystal sensor under different conditions is investigated to select the optimum conditions. The proposed system recorded the accepted sensitivity of 0.265 nm/Gy, FoM of 6.5 Gy − 1 , Q of 12,701, RS of 6 × 1 0 − 3 and LoD of 8 × 1 0 − 3 for gamma radiation. The suggested detector has simple design, accurate monitoring efficiency and immense potential for gamma radiation sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives A comprehensive review of the current literature was conducted to summarize the potential therapeutic and management roles of ketogenic diet (KD) for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Background Consensus has not been reached on the optimal diet for individuals with cardiovascular risk factors. KDs are characterized by high-fat, low-carbohydrate, and appropriate protein content, and have gained popularity in recent years in the management of various conditions, including cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Methods Original research, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses available in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were reviewed. Results The current body of preclinical and clinical evidence on the efficacy of KD in the management of CVD remains limited. Specific applications of KD seem to suggest a positive impact on management of CVD. However, conflicting results and a lack of precise molecular and biochemical mechanisms of action provide ample opportunity for future investigation. Conclusion More multidisciplinary studies are needed to determine the true clinical benefit of KD in the management of CVD and so justify its expanded clinical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Offshore wind power resources in the Red Sea waters of Saudi Arabia are yet to be explored. The objective of the present study is to assess offshore wind power resources at 49 locations in the Saudi waters of the Red Sea and prioritize the sites based on wind characteristics. To accomplish the set objective, long-term hourly mean wind speed (WS) and wind direction (WD) at 100 m above mean sea level, temperature, and pressure data near the surface were used at sites L1-L49 over 43 years from 1979 to 2021. The long-term mean WS and wind power density (WPD) varied between 3.83 m/s and 66.6 W/m2, and 6.39 m/s and 280.9 W/m2 corresponding to sites L44 and L8. However, higher magnitudes of WS >5 m/s were observed at 34 sites and WPD of > 200 W/m2 at 21 sites. In general, WS, WPD, annual energy yield, mean windy site identifier, plant capacity factor, etc. were found to be increasing from east to west and from south to north. Similarly, the mean wind variability index and cost of energy were observed to be decreasing as one moves from east to west and south to north in the Saudi waters of the Red Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, plasmonic titanium nitride (TiN) is widely employed as a potential alternative to noble metals in semiconductor–metal hybrid nanoparticles (S–M HNPs) for improving the utilization efficiency of solar energy in photocatalytic and photovoltaic systems. In semiconductor–TiN nanosystems, TiN NPs convert solar energy into highly energetic (hot) electrons that can be transmitted to the attached semiconductor for enhanced applications. In this paper, we propose TiN nanoshells with a nonabsorbing dielectric core as an improved energy conversion component in S–M HNPs, compared to homogenous TiN nanospheres, with higher geometrical optimization flexibility, wider absorption range tuneability, and effective hot electron generation and utilization due to the reduced plasmonic-shell size. For understanding the impact of the core material on the functionality of the nanoshells, we assume three core materials with different refractive indices (air, silica (SiO2), and magnesium oxide (MgO)). The exact Mie theory is utilized to calculate the absorption coefficient and the plasmon field of the proposed TiN nanoshells. To quantify the absorbance effectiveness on the solar spectrum, we calculate a relevant figure of merit (FoM) that depends on the spectral features of the absorption coefficient. By optimizing the geometrical parameters of nanoshells, it is found that hollow TiN nanoshells with the lowest core refractive index exhibit the highest FoM of solar energy absorption. Also, the plasmon field intensity of hollow TiN nanoshells is higher and more concentrated in a smaller volume of TiN material in comparison to the field intensity of other nanoshells (SiO2–TiN and MgO–TiN nanoshells) and TiN nanospheres. Factors affecting the utilization of the generated hot electrons, including the radiative damping of plasmons and the spreading of the plasmon field inside the nanoparticles, have been investigated. In view of the temporal dynamics of hot electrons, it is shown that using the hollow TiN nanoshells with thin shells greatly enhances the effectiveness of the generated hot electrons to reach the attached semiconductor. In fact, the reduced plasmonic-shell thickness results in a trade-off between a longer radiative relaxation time and less solar energy absorption with regard to the selected core material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zero‐valent copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) were beneficially green synthesized via Ficus Benjamina leaves. Applying scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Ficus Benjamina nano zero‐valent copper (FB‐nZVCu), an innovative adsorbent, was examined. The obtained zero‐valent CuNPs have a size range of 16–18 nm. The removal of D‐yellow 119 dye from textile wastewater was tested using this novel adsorbent. Many operating parameters were examined and tested to control the adsorbent's maximum removal efficiency. These variables included dye concentration, stirring rate, time, pH, and adsorbent dosage. Different adsorption mechanisms have been tested, and the Langmuir isotherm (qmax = 21.83 mg g−1) and (R2 = 0.9993) represent adequate for the adsorption process. The FB‐nZVCu green adsorbent is a promising material for eliminating D‐yellow 119 from simulated and real samples, according to the data obtained and the fruitful analysis. The impact of different operating factors was examined using IBM SPSS Statistics software. They were shown to be responsible for approximately 94% of the factors influencing the removal process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to assess the economic, environmental, policy-related and social implications of establishing green hydrogen production in Jordan. Design/methodology/approach: The comprehensive analysis has been investigated, including economic assessments, environmental impact evaluations, policy examinations and social considerations. Furthermore, the research methodology encompasses energy demand, sector, security and supply analysis, as well as an assessment of the availability of renewable energy resources. Findings: The results indicate substantial economic benefits associated with green hydrogen production, including job creation, increased tax revenue and a reduction in energy imports. Additionally, the study identifies positive environmental impacts, such as decreased greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Noteworthy, two methods could be used to produce hydrogen, namely: electrolysis and thermochemical water splitting. As a recommendation, the study proposes that Jordan, particularly Aqaba, take proactive measures to foster the development of a green hydrogen industry and collaborate with international partners to exchange best practices and establish the necessary infrastructure. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this paper is among the first to provide a comprehensive perspective on the potential of green hydrogen production as a driving force for Jordan's economy, while also benefiting the environment and society. However, the research recognizes several challenges that must be addressed to materialize green hydrogen production in Jordan, encompassing high renewable energy costs, infrastructure development requirements and community concerns. Despite these obstacles, the study asserts that the potential advantages of green hydrogen production outweigh the associated risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar thermal selective coatings (STSCs) are crucial for enhancing the thermal efficiency of receivers in solar power applications. Enhancing the photothermal conversion performance of STSCs is crucial for improving the thermo-economic efficiency of these sustainable high-temperature applications. Wherefore, in this study, we comprehensively review the ongoing technologies and enhanced strategies of solar thermal selective coatings, highlighting their advantages, drawbacks, technological advancements, and mechanisms. This review comprehensively examines the latest advancements in material synthesis, coating structure designs, and induced aging mechanisms of STSCs. It critically discusses the various types of STSCs, and the research techniques employed to assess photothermal performance and enhance thermal stability. Lastly, the limitations and future expectations of STSCs are also highlighted. This paper serves as a detailed guide for planning and implementing various types of STSCs in diverse solar power applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional food printing (3DFP) has now emerged as the new paradigm shift in culinary arts and is leading to a dramatic transformation of traditional cuisine. This paper aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of the literature associated with 3DFP research. In the Scopus database, an initial search provided 2188 documents. Applying the PRISMA criteria reduced these documents by narrowing the research to 545 articles. The bibliometric analysis confirmed the growth of research interest in the topic over the past ten years, demonstrating a substantial rise in publications between 2021 and 2023. We also investigated major journals and authors who play the most significant role in the field. The study also provides insight into how 3DFP is applied to deliver delicious, healthy, and visually appealing meals and mitigate food waste. It also highlights and strengthens the argument for design possibilities to manufacture such shapes and include other raw materials. This bibliometric analysis not only visualizes 3DFP's research trend but also provides future research directions, focusing on its role in the food industry and gastronomy as well as its contribution to sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is currently a great deal of interest in realizing localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) in two distinct windows in the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum for in vivo biosensing and medical applications, the biological window (BW) I and II (BW I, 700–900 nm; BW II, 1000–1700 nm). This study aims to demonstrate that LSPRs of Ga-doped ZnO (GZO) core–silver (Ag) shell structures exhibit promising features for biological applications in the NIR BW I and II. Here, we study three different shapes for nanoshells: the core–shell nanosphere, nanorod, and nanodisk. In the calculation of the optical response of these nanoshells, an effective medium approach is first used to reduce the dielectric function of a nanoshell to that of an equivalent homogenous NP with an effective dielectric function. Then, the LSPR spectra of nanoshells are calculated using the modified long-wavelength approximation (MLWA), which corrects the polarizability of the equivalent NP as obtained by Gans theory. Through numerical investigations, we examine the impacts of the core and shell sizes of the proposed nanoshells as well as the medium refractive index on the position and line width of the plasmon resonance peaks. It is shown that the plasmon resonances of the three proposed nanoshells exhibit astonishing resonance tunability in the NIR region by varying their geometrical parameters. Specifically, the improved spectrum characteristics and tunability of its plasmon resonances make the GZO–Ag nanosphere a more viable platform for NIR applications than the spherical metal colloid. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the sensitivity and figure of merit (FOM) of the plasmon resonances may be significantly increased by using GZO–Ag nanorods and nanodisks in place of GZO–Ag nanospheres. It is found that the optical properties of the transverse plasmon resonance of the GZO–Ag nanodisk are superior to all plasmon resonances produced by the GZO–Ag nanorods and GZO–Ag nanospheres in terms of sensitivity and FOM. The FOM of the transverse plasmon mode of the GZO–Ag nanodisk is almost two orders of magnitude higher than that of the longitudinal and transverse plasmon modes of the GZO–Ag nanorod in BW I and BW II. And it is 1.5 and 2 times higher than the plasmon resonance FOM of GZO–Ag nanospheres in BW I and BW II, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methylene blue dye, being toxic, carcinogenic and non-biodegradable, poses a serious threat for human health and environmental safety. The effective and time-saving removal of such industrial dye necessitates the use of innovative technologies such as silver nanoparticle-based catalysis. Utilizing a pulsed Nd:YAG laser operating at the second harmonic generation of 532 nm with 2.6 J energy per pulse and 10 ns pulse duration, Ag nanoparticles were synthesized via an eco-friendly method with sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) as a capping agent. Different exposure times (15, 30, and 45 min) resulted in varying nanoparticle sizes. Characterization was achieved through UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging, and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). Lorentzian fitting was used to model nanoparticle size, aligning well with SEM results. Mie's theory was applied to evaluate the absorption, scattering, and extinction cross-sectional area spectra. EDX revealed increasing Ag and carbon content with exposure time. The SDS-caped AgNPs nanoparticles were tested as catalyst for methylene blue degradation, achieving up to 92.5% removal in just 12 min with a rate constant of 0.2626 min−1, suggesting efficient and time-saving catalyst compared to previously reported Ag-based nanocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is linked to impaired mitochondrial function. Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a gadolinium‐contrast‐free 1H method to assess mitochondrial function by measuring low‐concentration metabolites. A CEST MRI‐based technique may serve as a non‐invasive proxy for assessing mitochondrial health. Hypothesis: A 1H CEST MRI technique may detect significant differences in in vivo skeletal muscle phosphocreatine (SMPCr) kinetics between healthy volunteers and T2DM patients undergoing standardized isometric exercise. Study Type: Cross‐sectional study. Subjects: Seven subjects without T2DM (T2DM−) and seven age, sex, and BMI‐matched subjects with T2DM (T2DM+). Field Strength/Sequence: Single‐shot rapid acquisition with refocusing echoes (RARE) and single‐shot gradient‐echo sequences, 3 T. Assessment: Subjects underwent a rest‐exercise‐recovery imaging protocol to dynamically acquire SMPCr maps in calf musculature. Medial gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus SMPCr concentrations were plotted over time, and SMPCr recovery time, τ, was determined. Mitochondrial function index was calculated as the ratio of resting SMPCr to τ. Participants underwent a second exercise protocol for imaging of skeletal muscle blood flow (SMBF), and its association with SMPCr was assessed. Statistical Tests: Unpaired t‐tests and Pearson correlation coefficient. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: SMPCr concentrations in MG and soleus displayed expected declines during exercise and returns to baseline during recovery. τ was significantly longer in the T2DM+ cohort (MG 83.5 ± 25.8 vs. 54.0 ± 21.1, soleus 90.5 ± 18.9 vs. 51.2 ± 14.5). The mitochondrial function index in the soleus was significantly lower in the T2DM+ cohort (0.33 ± 0.08 vs. 0.66 ± 0.19). SMBF was moderately correlated with the SMPCr in T2DM−; this correlation was not significant in T2DM+ (r = −0.23, P = 0.269). Conclusion: The CEST MRI method is feasible for quantifying SMPCr in peripheral muscle tissue. T2DM+ individuals had significantly lower oxidative capacities than T2DM− individuals. In T2DM, skeletal muscle metabolism appeared to be decoupled from perfusion. Level of Evidence: 1 Technical Efficacy: Stage 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to fill in a gap by examining how physical activities (PAs), feeling good about oneself physically, and academic performance (ACD_PRF) all work together to influence the overall quality of life (QoL) for vulnerable students. We examined data from 400 vulnerable students studying in various universities and major specializations. We employed the Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) data-analysis technique to test the validity and reliability of the outer model and to test the hypotheses used in the inner model. The research findings indicate that physical activities and physical self-esteem (PHS) can directly and indirectly improve vulnerable students' QoL. However, among vulnerable students, ACD_PRF can only strengthen their QoL indirectly through improving their PHS. These findings help us to understand how physical activities, feeling good about one's body, and ACD_PRF all contribute to these students having a better overall QoL. This knowledge can help us to develop better ways to support vulnerable students and to improve their well-being in all aspects of their lives, bodies, and ACD_PRF, which contributes to these students having a better overall QoL. This knowledge can help us to develop better ways to support students with disabilities (SwDs) and to improve their well-being in all aspects of their lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium bromate is used in cheese production, beer making and is also used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic. It is a proven carcinogen as it is a strong oxidizing agent that generates free radicals during xenobiotic metabolism. Urtica dioica (Ud) (from the plants' family of Urticaceae) is a plant that has long been used as a medicinal plant in many parts of the world. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunosuppressive properties. So, this study aimed to clarify the effect of Potassium bromate on the histological structure of cerebral cortex of adult male albino rats, evaluate the possible protective role of Urtica dioica. Thirty adult healthy male albino rats were divided into three groups; group I (Control group), group II (KBrO3 treated group). Group III (KBrO3 and Urtica dioica treated group).At the end of the experiment, rats in all groups were anesthetized and specimens were processed for light and electron microscope. Morphometric and statistical analyses were also performed. Nerve cells of the treated group showed irregular contours, dark nuclei, irregular nuclear envelopes, dilated RER cisternae, and mitochondria with ruptured cristae. Vacuolated neuropil was also observed. Immunohistochemically, stained sections for GFAP showed strong positive reaction in the processes of astrocytes. Recovery group showed revealed nearly the same as the histological picture as the control group. In conclusion, potassium bromate induces degenerative effects on neurons of cerebral cortex and urtica dioica provide an important neuroprotective effects against these damaging impacts through their antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the damping effects of coherent electron oscillations on the bandwidth of a quantized nanoparticle plasmon resonance. The nanoparticle (NP) is treated as a two-level quantum system, and the total relaxation time involves both the population relaxation time associated with radiative processes and the collisional relaxation time associated with nonradiative processes that result in dephasing/decoherence of electron oscillations. We describe the optical response of NPs to an external electromagnetic field by the optical Bloch equations employing the density matrix formalism to capture the quantum description nature of dipolar plasmon resonance and suggest a generalized criterion for the validity of dipole approximation. Then we explore the competition between the radiative and nonradiative damping in determining the plasmon bandwidth of two typical NP models; metallic nanospheres and dielectric core–metal shell NPs (nanoshells). We show that the frequency of plasmon resonance, in addition to the NP size, plays an important role in the competition between the damping mechanisms. Consequently, the damping processes are significantly influenced by the factors that determine the resonance frequency, such as the core size, the dielectric constant of the medium, and the shell thickness (for nanoshells). For both models of NPs, we identify the optimum parameters that achieve a narrower plasmon bandwidth (minimal damping), which is a prerequisite for advanced sensing and medical applications. We demonstrate excellent agreement of the simulated spectral features of the plasmon resonance with previously reported experimental results for a single NP where the inhomogeneous broadening of the plasmon line is excluded. For NP ensembles where inhomogeneous broadenings and interface chemical effects are significant, our theoretical approach successfully predicts the overall trend of size-dependent damping rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are prevalent with aging, and AAA rupture is associated with increased mortality. There is currently no effective medical therapy to prevent AAA rupture. The monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1)/C–C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) axis critically regulates AAA inflammation, matrix-metalloproteinase (MMP) production, and extracellular matrix (ECM) stability. We therefore hypothesized that a diet intervention that can modulate CCR2 axis may therapeutically impact AAA risk of rupture. Since ketone bodies (KBs) can trigger repair mechanisms in response to inflammation, we evaluated whether systemic ketosis in vivo could reduce CCR2 and AAA progression. Male Sprague–Dawley rats underwent surgical AAA formation using porcine pancreatic elastase and received daily β-aminopropionitrile to promote AAA rupture. Rats with AAAs received either a standard diet, ketogenic diet (KD), or exogenous KBs (EKB). Rats receiving KD and EKB reached a state of ketosis and had significant reduction in AAA expansion and incidence of rupture. Ketosis also led to significantly reduced aortic CCR2 content, improved MMP balance, and reduced ECM degradation. Consistent with these findings, we also observed that Ccr2−/− mice have significantly reduced AAA expansion and rupture. In summary, this study demonstrates that CCR2 is essential for AAA expansion, and that its modulation with ketosis can reduce AAA pathology. This provides an impetus for future clinical studies that will evaluate the impact of ketosis on human AAA disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper explores the intricate interplay between mental health (MH), quality of life (QOL), religiosity, and social connectedness among students with disabilities. In the context of a growing awareness of the multifaceted nature of well-being, this study aims to unravel the moderating effects of religiosity and social connectedness on the relationship between mental health and the overall quality of life experienced by students with disabilities. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), this research investigates direct and moderating effects within the proposed conceptual framework. The results indicate that all mental health disorder dimensions (stress, depression, and anxiety) negatively and significantly affect the quality of life of students with disabilities; moreover, the negative impact of stress on QOL is dampened by the moderation effect of social connectedness. Similarly, the negative impact of anxiety on QOL is dampened by the moderation effect of religiosity. However, the findings indicate that social connectedness fails to dampen the negative impact of depression (and anxiety (β = −0.12)) on QOL. Similarly, the findings reveal that religiosity is unable to dampen the negative effect of depression and stress on QOL. These findings' implications extend to the theoretical and practical domains, informing interventions and support systems aimed at enhancing the overall quality of life of people with disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A commercially significant species in the aquaculture sector globally, particularly in Egypt, is Litopenaeus vannamei. Aim: The experiment's objective was to ascertain how Sanolife PRO-F impacted the growth, water quality, immunological response, and intestinal morphometry of L. vannamei. Methods: In the current investigation, which lasted 12 weeks, Sanolife PRO-F was administered to shrimp post-larvae at diet doses of 0 (control), 1 (group one), 2 (group two), and 3 (group three) g/kg diet, respectively. Each experimental group had three repetitions. Results: In the current study, shrimp fed on probiotic-treated diets showed a considerable improvement in growth performance measures and survival rate, and the nonspecific immune response was also enhanced. Shrimp fed probiotic diets had longer and more intestinal villi overall. Shrimp fed on the G2 and G3 diets showed no appreciable differences in growth or intestinal morphology. With the G2 and G3 diet, the water had lower concentrations of nitrite and ammonia. Conclusion: The study's findings indicate that Sanolife PRO-F treatment at 2–3 g/kg feed promotes the growth of shrimp, immunological response, gut health and function, and water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Organic selenium (Sel-Plex®) supplementation holds considerable promise for improving the effectiveness of fish production. Aim:This experiment was accomplished to judge the potential benefits of Sel-Plex® nutritional additive on growth outcomes, physiological response, oxidative status, and immunity-linked gene expression in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings exposed to bacterial infection with Aeromonas hydrophila. Methods: Utilizing a basal diet of 30% protein, four experimental diets were prepared, each of which contained Sel- Plex® at concentrations of 0.0, 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg, respectively. Three replicates of 20 fish/treatment were used using 240 healthy Nile tilapia fingerlings. Fish were placed in 12 glass aquariums and separated into 4 groups at random. For the entire span of 8 weeks, diets were admitted to fish at a 3% rate of fish biomass/aquarium. After the feeding trial, pathogenic A. hydrophila was intraperitoneally injected into fish of each treatment, and fish were observed for 15 days to track the survival rate (SR) after the challenge. Results: Growth performance, physiological response, immunological parameters (phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, and lysozyme), and antioxidant parameters [catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] were noticeably improved in Sel-Plex® treated groups. Moreover, Sel-Plex® increased gene expression linked with the immune system in the liver (tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin 1β), to growth (insulin-like growth factor 1 and growth hormone receptor), and antioxidants (SOD and GPx). Under pathogen-challenge conditions, the employed dietary Sel-Plex® supplementation could successfully lower fish oxidative stress, offering a potential preventive additive for Nile tilapia instead of antibiotics. On the other hand, Sel-Plex® significantly enhanced each of three intestinal morphological measurements (villus width, villus length, and crypt depth), demonstrating the greatest influence on the improvement of intestinal structure overall. In the Nile tilapia control group, the infection with A. hydrophila caused noticeable degenerative alterations in the gut, hepatopancreas, spleen, and posterior kidney. The severity of the lesion was significantly reduced and significantly improved with higher Sel-Plex® concentrations. Sel-Plex® supplemented groups had 100% SRs among the A. hydrophila-challenged groups. Conclusion: It could be advised to enrich the diets of Nile tilapia fingerlings with 1–2 mg.kg−1 of Sel-Plex® to enhance growth rate, physiological response, immunological reaction, and intestinal absorptive capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this regard, green preparation of nanoscale-zero-valent copper was accomplished using Ficus benjamina leaves successfully. Ficus nano zero valent copper (Ficus-nZVCu) was characterized utilized scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results revealed that 63% of DR31 dye and 56% of DO26 dye were removed within the optimum conditions (0.3 g L-1, 30 min, 50 mg L-1, and pH 6). A Langmuir model was found to be the most fitting system for the removal process for DR31 and DO26. A Pseudo-second order kinetics model is the fit model of the removal processes for DR31 and DO26. The regenerated adsorbent still retained good adsorption capability after the fifth round of recycles. Ficus-nZVCu adsorbent is intensely recommended as a confident material for removing DR31 and DO26 anionic dyes from both prepared and actual wastewater samples. The co-presence of DR31 and DO26 did not affect each other's. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying stratigraphic traps in highly faulted rift basins such as the Rawat Basin in southeastern Sudan is challenging as a result of the intensive tectonic events. Sedimentological studies in the basin indicate the possibility of enormous petroleum potential locked up within several stratigraphic traps. This study examined the petroleum prospects in the basin beyond the conventional structural trapped systems that have yielded limited hydrocarbon prospectivity. This article utilizes core feature analysis to identify the primary sedimentary environments, employs seismic stratigraphy to determine sedimentary cycles, and conducts seismic facies analysis. Sequence stratigraphic and seismic facies analyses, core data, and log signatures from eight exploratory wells were analysed and employed to define the dynamic depositional processes of the fluvial and lacustrine sandstones and mudstones of the lower to upper Cretaceous first rift cycle in the Rawat central sub-basin. The core analysis indicates fluvial to deltaic depositional environment, while the log signatures, which showed bell, funnel, and serrated shapes, correspond to braided delta and lacustrine environments in the Galhak sand, Galhak, and Mulet Formations, respectively. The motifs and lithology were interpreted as indicating variations in lithology. The sediments were composed of low-energy particle sizes and were highly well sorted with a laminated bed of silt clay, and the variation in clay color indicates the deposition in a weak reduction–oxidation environment with shallow water; all these indicate the fluvial lacustrine setting. The concept of seismic stratigraphy applied identified a first-order cycle that includes low-stand system tract, transgressive systems tract, and high-stand systems tract. The first-order cycle is subdivided into two major second-order cycles, which are further divided into five para-sequence sets. The sets from the bottom to the top include SQ1, SQ2, SQ3, SQ4, and SQ5. Seismic facies analysis identified wedge chaotic progradational configuration, parallel seismic facies, sub-parallel, hummocky, and discontinuous reflectors within the first-order cycle, which confirmed the setting to be fluvial lacustrine. The stratigraphic traps recognised in the central sub-basin are lateral facies change as one of the depositional traps and the truncation in the northeast of the central sub-basin. The combined strengths of seismic stratigraphy and seismic facies analysis with the litho-facies association have greatly enhanced the identification of stratigraphic traps, some of which could have significant hydrocarbon prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of the current trial was to investigate the impacts of tilapia diets supplemented with S-methylmethionine sulfonium chloride (MMSC) on the growth performance, feed efficiency, body analysis, blood biochemistry and regulation of myostatin (MSTN) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) genes of nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The experimental fish (n=180) weighing 22.4±0.17 g were allocated randomly into three equal groups in triplicate as follows; the control group received an un-supplemented diet; the other two groups received two different levels of MMSC (0.2 and 0.4 g/kg) for eight weeks. The obtained findings demonstrated that tilapia diets enriched with small dosages of MMSC considerably (P<0.05) enhanced all assessed growth performance and feed efficiency indicators when compared with the control group. When compared to the control group, tilapia meals supplemented with 0.2 g MMSC significantly (P<0.05 or 0.01) raised blood protein profile, particularly total protein and globulin levels. Contrarily, blood creatinine levels were significantly (P<0.01) reduced in the group of tilapia fed diets containing MMSC (0.2 or 0.4 g/kg) compared to the group without receiving any supplementation. Whereas, fish body analysis showed higher significant increases in crude protein and ether extract levels (P<0.01) as well as reduced ash content (P<0.05) in the fish group that received lower MMSC doses in comparison to other treated and control groups. In addition, MMSC dietary supplementation significantly downregulated the expression of MSTN and upregulated IGF-1 mRNA expression compared with the control group. Additionally, both dosages of MMSC supplementation modestly enhanced the intestinal villus histomorphometric score indices with observed tall, thick, and various broad tips in comparison to the control group. In conclusion, it could be recommended that fish diets supplemented with 0.2 g MMSC per kg diet may promote the growth and general health status of Nile Tilapia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinoxaline is a fused heterocycle system of a benzene ring and pyrazine ring. It has earned considerable attention due to its importance in the field of medicinal chemistry. The system is of extensive importance due to its comprehensive array of biological activities. Quinoxaline derivatives have been used as anticancer, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-TB, antimalarial, antiviral, anti-HIV, and many other uses. Variously substituted quinoxalines are significant therapeutic agents in the pharmaceutical industry. This review spotlights on the chemistry, physiochemical characters, synthesis, pharmaceutical products, and medicinal chemistry of various anticancer quinoxaline derivatives that were developed in the last period. It covers the period from 2016 to 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate masking effects of resin infiltration on labial white spot lesions (WSL), by comparing the latter with a remineralization approach (using hydroxyapatite and fluorides) and conventional oral care (using fluoride-free toothpaste). Method and materials: Fifteen patients with at least three WSL were enrolled for a within-person randomized controlled trial, thus allowing for intrapersonal comparisons. Each WSL per tooth in every patient was randomly assigned to one of the following groups. Group 1: lesions were resin-infiltrated with Icon (RI; DMG); Group 2: Remin Pro (RP; VOCO) was used as remineralizing agent; and Group 3 (control): affected teeth were brushed with Complete Care toothpaste (CC; Himalaya). RP and CC were applied by means of a polishing brush, using a low-speed handpiece (5 min), and these procedures were repeated chairside thrice daily for 7 consecutive days. Digital photographs were captured before and after lesion treatment under standardized conditions. The CIE L*a*b* color system was used to analyze the optical outcome, and intrapersonal color differences were statistically evaluated. Results: Compared to RP and CC, RI showed prompt and subjectively satisfactory color improvements, and this was primarily driven by L* and b* shifts. Statistical analysis of the objective color differences (ΔE*) between the three groups revealed significant differences for RI vs RP (P = .029), RI vs CC (P < .001), and RP vs CC (P = .001). Conclusion: Resin infiltration is considered a time-effective treatment option for esthetically camouflaging WSL, while RP and CC failed to improve lesion appearance and oral health in the current short-term trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas sensing is of significant importance in a wide range of disciplines, including industrial safety and environmental monitoring. In this work, a low-cost SILAR (Successive Ionic Layer Adsorption and Reaction) technique was employed to fabricate pure CuO, Zn-doped CuO, and Na-doped CuO nanotextured films to efficiently detect CO2 gas. The structures, morphologies, chemical composition, and optical properties of all films are characterized using different tools. All films exhibit a crystalline monoclinic phase (tenorite) structure. The average crystallite size of pure CuO was 83.5 nm, whereas the values for CuO/Zn and CuO/Na were 73.15 nm and 63.08 nm, respectively. Subsequently, the gas-sensing capabilities of these films were evaluated for the detection of CO2 in terms of sensor response, selectivity, recovery time, response time, and limits of detection and quantification. The CuO/Na film offered the most pronounced sensitivity towards CO2 gas, as evidenced by a sensor response of 12.8% at room temperature and a low limit of detection (LoD) of 2.36 SCCM. The response of this sensor increased to 64.5% as the operating temperature increased to 150 °C. This study thus revealed a brand-new CuO/Na nanostructured film as a highly effective and economically viable sensor for the detection of CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tianjin, as one of the pioneering and most prominent cities in China, has a long history of harnessing geothermal energy. The geothermal resource available in Tianjin is primarily characterized as a low- to medium-temperature hydrothermal geothermal resource. This manuscript introduces the ongoing status and potential of geothermal utilization in China, with a particular focus on the characteristics and utilization status of geothermal resources in Tianjin, China. Moreover, the relevant strategies and challenges for cost-efficient sustainable utilization of Tianjin geothermal resources are identified. The formation parameters of heat storage characteristics of Tianjin geothermal resources are also discussed. In addition, the key paths, guidelines and challenges on how to solve the obstacles related to the geothermal resources development in Tianjin are also suggested. The summarized results indicate that the geothermal reservoirs exploited in Tianjin vary greatly, which include sandstone of Neogene Minghuazhen formation, Guantao formation, Ordovician and Cambrian and carbonate of Proterozoic Wumishan formation. Most of the exploitative geothermal resources (146 geothermal wells) in Tianjin have mainly been produced from the Wumishan formation of the Jixian system and the Guantao formation of the Neogene system. The current production capacity has been doubled, and a two-stage cascade utilization system has been established, incorporating geothermal power generation and geothermal heating. The geothermal utilization share in Tianjin is estimated to be 81.66% for heating, 16.6% for domestic hot water and 1.35% for bathing. In conclusion, notwithstanding the diversity of geothermal resources in Tianjin, it is difficult to guarantee the sustainable development and utilization of geothermal resources in Tianjin due to the unreasonable layout of geothermal wells, imbalance of production and reinjection. Hence, the integration of distributed temperature sensing and distributed strain sensing monitoring demonstrates significant promise and effectiveness in tracking water circulation and detecting flow localization problems as dynamic monitoring processes and smart thermal response tests should be recommended and established as a substantial feature required in the future utilization and development of geothermal resources in Tianjin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the clinical implication of additional below-the-ankle (BTA) intervention in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) undergoing below-the-knee (BTK) intervention. Materials and Methods: A sub-analysis was performed using data from the LIBERTY trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01855412), a prospective, observational, core-laboratory adjudicated, multicenter study of endovascular intervention in 1204 patients. Patients with CLTI (Rutherford Classification 4-6) who underwent BTK intervention were included in this sub-analysis. Participants were then stratified into 2 treatment groups according to whether at least one lesion intervened on was BTA (n=66) or not (n=273). The decision on whether and where to intervene was made during the procedure. The main outcome measures included major amputation, target vessel revascularization (TVR), major adverse events (MAE), survival, amputation-free survival, major adverse limb events or peri-operative death (MALE-POD), and all-cause death. Other outcome measures included procedural success, procedural complications, and wound healing rate. Results: There were no differences in procedural success or severe angiographic complications between the 2 groups. At 1-year post-procedure, patients in the BTK group had a higher rate of freedom from major amputation (95.0% vs. 86.9%, respectively; HR: 2.87, 95% CI: 1.17-7.03), a higher rate of freedom from TVR (80.1% vs. 66.9%, respectively; HR: 1.94, 95% CI: 1.14-3.32), a higher rate of freedom from MALE-POD (94.6% vs. 86.9%, respectively; HR: 2.65, 95% CI: 1.10-6.41), and a higher rate of freedom from MAE at both 1 (76.0% vs. 60.1%, respectively; HR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.24-3.22) and 3 years post procedure (67.5% vs. 55.8%, respectively; HR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.08-2.65). There was a significantly lower rate of survival in the BTK group at 3 years (74.3% vs. 91.1%, respectively; HR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.14-0.87). After risk adjustment, there was a higher rate of all-cause death in the BTK group at 3 years (19.4% vs. 9.1%, respectively; p=0.023) post-intervention. Conclusion: Patients with disease requiring intervention to BTA lesions have a potential increased amputation rate in the short term, but BTA intervention carries a potential survival benefit in the long term when compared to BTK intervention alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to develop a novel design of hemispheric distillers that can achieve the highest performance improvement. To implement this idea, a semi-corrugated absorber basin combined with an inverted solar collector was utilized in order to augment the vaporization rates within the hemispheric distillation basin and thus improve the freshwater yield. The effects of three different pitch distances of the semi-corrugated basin (5, 8, and 12 cm) were investigated to figure out the finest pitch that maximizes the distillation yield of hemispheric distillation systems. To achieve these experimentally, two hemispherical distillers were designed, constructed, and examined, the first is a conventional hemispherical distiller (CHSD) and the second is the developed hemispherical distiller with a semi-corrugated absorber combined with an inverted solar collector (DHSDSCA& ISC). Besides, three basins with a semi-corrugated absorber (with various pitches of 5, 8, and 12 cm) were designed and implemented for the developed hemispherical distiller. The practical tests were conducted over three consecutive days so that each case of DHSD-SCA&ISC was compared with CHSD. The results presented that the mutual utilization of the inverted solar collector and semi-corrugated basin with a pitch distance of 5.0 cm represents the optimized configuration in the distiller basin that yields the maximum freshwater product. At this case, the distilled product reached 9.54 L/m2·d with an improvement percentage of 92.73% as compared to CHSD. Moreover, the daily energetic efficiency reached 77.29% with an enhancement percentage rate of 91.45% as compared to CHSD. In addition, the economic assessment findings indicated that the price per 1.0 L of distilled water was reduced by 36.0% compared to the CHSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of dimensionally stable anode (DSA) for degrading organic pollutants is of concern recently. The electrocatalytic technique can efficiently treat biodegradable organic matter like dye-containing effluent discharge. This study focuses on applying modified DSA meshed IrO2/Ti electrode for the electrochemical degradation of wastewater effluents of Basic Red 46 (BR46) textile dye using different supporting electrolytes; sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) or/and sodium chloride (NaCl). The parameters affecting the proposed electrochemical degradation process were evaluated to select the optimal operating conditions. The results revealed that using a mixture of supporting electrolyte Na2SO4 and NaCl enhanced the removal of dye color %, chemical oxygen demand (COD) %, and total organic carbon (TOC) % by 94.9%, 65.7%, and 76.0%, respectively. The UV-Vis and FT-IR spectroscopic techniques followed the degradation efficiency. FT-IR data were in good agreement with the COD, TOC, and UV-Vis measurements, confirming the high refractory performance of the BR46 dye. The redox process was performed on the surface of the modified electrode and explained via cyclic voltammetry (CV), and it showed a diffusion mass transport mechanism followed by product adsorption. The identification of the degradation products was assessed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The electrochemical degradation and mineralization of a binary mixture of Basic Yellow (BY28) and BR46 textile dyes were also studied. It gave similar degradation and mineralization behavior to the same extent as the single dye in solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sixteen new thalidomide analogs were synthesized. The new candidates showed potent in vitro antiproliferative activities against three human cancer cell lines, namely hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG-2), prostate cancer (PC3), and breast cancer (MCF-7). It was found that compounds XII, XIIIa, XIIIb, XIIIc, XIIId, XIVa, XIVb, and XIVc showed IC50 values ranging from 2.03 to 13.39 µg/mL, exhibiting higher activities than thalidomide against all tested cancer cell lines. Compound XIIIa was the most potent candidate, with an IC50 of 2.03 ± 0.11, 2.51 ± 0.2, and 0.82 ± 0.02 µg/mL compared to 11.26 ± 0.54, 14.58 ± 0.57, and 16.87 ± 0.7 µg/mL for thalidomide against HepG-2, PC3, and MCF-7 cells, respectively. Furthermore, compound XIVc reduced the expression of NFκB P65 levels in HepG-2 cells from 278.1 pg/mL to 63.1 pg/mL compared to 110.5 pg/mL for thalidomide. Moreover, compound XIVc induced an eightfold increase in caspase-8 levels with a simultaneous decrease in TNF-α and VEGF levels in HepG-2 cells. Additionally, compound XIVc induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Our results reveal that the new candidates are potential anticancer candidates, particularly XIIIa and XIVc. Consequently, they should be considered for further evaluation for the development of new anticancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various therapies have been utilized for treating diabetic wounds, yet current regiments do not simultaneously address the key intrinsic causes of slow wound healing, i.e., abnormal skin cell functions (particularly migration), delayed angiogenesis, and chronic inflammation. To address this clinical gap, we develop a wound dressing that contains a peptide-based TGFβ receptor II inhibitor (PTβR2I), and a thermosensitive and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging hydrogel. The wound dressing can quickly solidify on the diabetic wounds following administration. The released PTβR2I inhibits the TGFβ1/p38 pathway, leading to improved cell migration and angiogenesis, and decreased inflammation. Meanwhile, the PTβR2I does not interfere with the TGFβ1/Smad2/3 pathway that is required to regulate myofibroblasts, a critical cell type for wound healing. The hydrogel's ability to scavenge ROS in diabetic wounds further decreases inflammation. Single-dose application of the wound dressing significantly accelerates wound healing with complete wound closure after 14 days. Overall, using wound dressings capable of adaptively modulating TGFβ pathways provides a new strategy for diabetic wound treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The aim was to compare the anatomical and functional success between combined scleral buckling with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and PPV with heavy silicone oil (HSO) tamponade in treating inferior proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) grade C in primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Patients and methods A nonrandomized comparative study was performed on 33 eyes of 33 patients presenting with inferior PVR grade C complicating primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Sixteen eyes underwent PPV with the HSO tamponade namely Densiron 68 that were classified as the heavy-oil group; 17 eyes underwent combined PPV with an encircling 240-band that were classified as the bucklevitrectomy group. The aim was to achieve anatomical retinal reattachment in the absence of intraocular tamponade. Silicone oil (SO) was removed after 8 weeks in both groups. All patients were evaluated for best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and intraocular pressure by the end of the first week, first and second months in oilfilled eyes; by the end of the first and third months post-SO removal was achieved. Results Successful primary retinal reattachment was achieved in 87.5% in the heavy-oil group and in 94.1% in the buckle-vitrectomy group, which showed no statistical difference (P=0.47) in these groups. Both groups showed a statistically significant improvement in BCVA after surgery. A significant difference in BCVA in the two groups on the eighth follow-up week after primary surgery (P=0.015) and on the 4th follow-up week after SO removal (P=0.031) was found; but at the 12th week post-SO removal there was no significant difference found between both groups (P=0.056). The mean surgical time was 96.25±13.478 and 116.47±12.4 min for the heavy-oil and buckle-vitrectomy groups, respectively, with a P value less than 0.001. Conclusion Managing inferior PVR either by PPV and HSO or by PPV and an encircling band achieved the same anatomical and functional reuslts. Although the surgical time was much faster in the heavy-oil group, the surgical costs were much higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene (G)-plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) systems have found immense nanoscale applications via utilizing the sensitive optical response of graphene to the photo-induced electrons transferred from attached NPs. These electrons are emitted from the plasmonic metal NPs under the influence of a Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR). Here, we first present theoretical investigations of the photoemission electrons in the G-plasmonic NPs system influenced by the LSPR of NPs. A rigorous theoretical approach is used to determine the level of photo-exited electrons and the optimal parameters for achieving a highest photoemission yield. The photoemission of electrons is mainly driven by the surface photoelectric effect in which an electron near the particle surface absorbs photon energy and overcomes the potential barrier at the metal–graphene boundary. For a thorough investigation, we study the effects of the material and geometry of NPs and the intensity of the LSPR field on the rate of photoemission. It is shown that silver nanoparticles combined with graphene are more effective in enhancing light–matter interaction in graphene owing to the lower interfacial energy barrier and higher field enhancement. Finally, we verify that the photo-induced electron density predicted by our calculations is matched with that obtained by combining theoretical and Raman-based experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to leverage a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) approach to characterize foot perfusion distribution in patients with diabetes, with or without foot ulcers, and determine the ability of the regional perfusion measurements to identify ulcer-healing status. Methods: Three groups of participants (n = 15 / group) were recruited: controls (without diabetes), type II diabetes, and type II diabetes with foot ulcers. All participants underwent MRI evaluating foot perfusion in three muscle layers (from plantar to dorsal) at rest and during a standardized toe-flexion exercise. The exercise perfusion and perfusion reserve values were analyzed around and away from ulcers. Participants with foot ulcers were followed up 3 months after the MRI exams to determine the foot healing status. Results: Foot plantar muscle perfusion reserves were progressively lower from controls to diabetes, and to diabetes with foot ulcers (e.g., 2.58 ± 0.67, 1.48 ± 0.71, 1.12 ± 0.35, p < 0.001). In controls, the plantar layer had significantly higher perfusion reserve than the dorsal layer, whereas in either diabetes group, there was no significant difference in perfusion reserve among muscle layers. Using the ratio of total exercise perfusion around ulcers to that away from ulcers, the sensitivity and specificity to differentiate healing from non-healed ulcers were 100% and 86%, respectively. Conclusions: Our study reveals significantly different foot perfusion distribution among controls, diabetes, and diabetes with foot ulcers. The prognostic value of MRI regional perfusion assessments has the potential to monitor interventions to improve ulcer healing outcomes. Key Points: • Contrast-free MRI permits quantitative assessment of regional foot muscle perfusion at rest and during isometric exercise. • Patients with diabetes and foot ulcers, without clinical evidence of peripheral arterial disease, had significantly impaired foot muscle perfusion and perfusion reserve. • Regional foot perfusion distribution may be used to predict the short-term healing status of foot ulcers in diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To study the long-term results of utero-vaginal anastomosis in cases of cervical malformations. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study. Nine patients presented with cryptomenorrhea due to cervical malformations (5 patients with cervical agenesis and vaginal aplasia, 2 patients with cervical agenesis and upper vaginal aplasia, and two patients with cervical dysgenesis in form of cervical obstruction). Five patients had utero-vaginal anastomosis (UVA) with McIndoe vaginoplasty. Four patients had UVA without vaginoplasty. Follow-up was done by transabdominal and/or transvaginal ultrasound monthly for the first 3 months then every 6 months thereafter for a duration that ranged from 15 to 82 months. The main outcome measures are achieving menstruation, dysmenorrhea, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), needed interventions after primary surgery, infertility, and pregnancy rate. Results: Nine (100%) patients achieved menstruation, one (12%) experienced severe dysmenorrhea, two (22%) had PID, seven (78%) needed dilatation of the anastomosis site, three (33%) needed reoperation, nine (100%) had primary infertility, two (28.5%) achieved clinical pregnancy, and only one (14%) ended by live birth. Conclusion: Conservative surgery for cervical malformation is a promising choice for relieving the obstructive symptoms. Regular dilatation is recommended. Pregnancy is a remote hope that is hindered by many challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of solar-powered Stirling engines to convert thermal energy into electricity is a promising and renewable technological solution that can contribute to reducing dependence on fossil fuels for electricity generation. Unfortunately, the lack of experimental performance data and operating parameters for this type of technology limits its detailed characterization, difficult its modeling and design, and consequently its utilization. This paper aims to introduce an experimental analysis and mathematical modeling of a 1.5 MWe dish/Stirling concentrated solar power plant (DSCSPP), installed at Maricopa, Arizona, USA (33.0581° N, 112.0476° W). The daily, monthly, and annual performances of the DSCSPP are analyzed for one complete year to predict the annual electricity production. For daily summer conditions, the DSCSPP generates a peak electric power of 1.27 MWe at a direct solar irradiance (DNI) of 998 W/m2 with an overall plant efficiency of 23.7%. The results show that for DNI values between 472 and 998 W/m2, the experimental tests and the finding of the mathematical modeling do not present considerable differences, obtaining hourly electric power between 1.27 and 0.301 MWe which represents deviations in the range of 0.013%–16%. Moreover, the proposed DSCSPP produces 2550 MWh annually, with a yearly net overall efficiency of 17.8%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We are trying to evaluate silver nanoparticles' effectiveness (SilvrSTAT Gel) in accelerating healing rate of nonischemic diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Methods: This prospective, double-blind, randomized, controlled study includes 80 patients with nonischemic DFUs classified into 2 groups. Group A was subjected to SilvrSTAT Gel dressing, and group B was subjected to conventional dressing (wet-to-moist dressing with or without povidone-iodine). All cases had minimal debridement before treatment. In both groups, all cases were nonischemic after successful revascularization either by bypass surgery or endovascular therapy. Results: The healing rate of the SilvrSTAT group was significantly higher than that of the conventional group. The healing rate per week of the SilvrSTAT group was considerably higher than that of the conventional group (P <.0001). The rate of complete healing for ulcers in group A was achieved in 22 patients (55%) by the 6th week, while 29 (72.5%), 34 (85%), and 36 (90%) patients were healed entirely by the 8th, 10th, and 12th weeks, respectively. In group B: 20 (50%), 27 (67.5%), and 30 (75%) patients were completeley healed by the 8th, 10th, and 12th weeks, respectively. Conclusions: SilvrSTATGel is effective in the treatment of DFU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, ZnO has been synthesized with a variety of nanomorphologies, including nanorods (NRs), nanodiscs (NDs), and nanorods/nanodiscs (NRs/NDs), to enhance CO2 gas detection at room temperature. The ZnO nanostructures were made by combining the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) strategy and the chemical bath deposition (CBD) method. The time of CBD varied from 6 to 12 h. Several techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray (EDAX) spectrometry, optical spectrophotometer, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), were used to investigate the manufactured ZnO nanostructures. The FE-SEM demonstrates that by increasing the deposition period of CBD from 6 to 12 h, the shape of ZnO nanostructures changed from NRs/NDs to NDs. According to the XRD, all ZnO nanostructured samples exhibit hexagonal wurtzite structures with (002) preferred orientation. Additionally, the crystallite size along orientation (002) increases from 63 to 65 nm as the deposition duration increases from 6 to 12 h. The bandgap of ZnO was reduced from 3.62 to 3.31 eV. When the deposition time is increased from 6 to 12 h, the sensitivity increases from 8.46 to 28.7%, the detection limit rises from 4.65 to 9.95 SCCM, and the limit of quantification rises from 15.52 to 33.16 SCCM. Moreover, the ZnO @ 12 h sensors has excellent selectivity as well since it reacts to CO2 with a higher response sensitivity than it does to other gases like hydrogen and ammonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the evaporation zone inside the solar distiller (SD) is a pivotal method for augmenting its freshwater production. Hence, in this work, a newly designed prismatic absorber basin covered by linen wicks was utilized instead of the conventional flat absorber basin to increase the surface area of the vaporization zone in a double-slope solar distiller (DSSD). Meanwhile, for further enhancement of modified DSSD performance, dual parallel spraying nozzles are incorporated underneath the glass cover as a saltwater feed supply to minimize the thickness of the saltwater film on the wick, which enhances the heating process of the wick surface and, consequently, the evaporation and condensation processes are improved. Two double slope distillers, namely a double slope solar distiller with wick prismatic basin and dual parallel spraying nozzles (DSSD-WPB&DPSN) and a traditional double slope solar distiller (TDSSD), are made and tested in the outdoor summer conditions of Tanta, Egypt (31° E and 30.5° N). A comparative energic–exergic-economic analysis of the two proposed solar stills is also conducted, in terms of the cumulative distillation yield, daily energy efficiency, daily exergy efficiency, and cost per liter of distilled yield. The present results show that the cumulative distillation yield of the DSSD-WPB&DPSN was 8.20 kg/m2·day, which is higher than that of the TDSSD by 49.64%. Furthermore, the energy and exergy efficiencies were increased by 48.51% and 118.10%, respectively, relative to TDSSD. Additionally, the life cost assessment reveals that the cost per liter of the distilled yield of the DSSD-WPB&DPSN is decreased by 11.13% compared to the TDSSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common renal monogenic disease, characterized by bilateral accumulation of renal fluid-filled cysts leading to progressive renal volume enlargement and gradual impairment of kidney function, often resulting in end-stage renal disease. Kuwait could provide valuable genetic insights about ADPKD, including intrafamilial phenotypic variation, given its large household size. This study aims to provide a comprehensive description of the pathogenic variants linked to ADPKD in the Kuwaiti population using multiple genetic analysis modalities and to describe and analyse the ADPKD phenotypic spectrum in terms of kidney function, kidney volume and renal survival. Methods A total of 126 ADPKD patients from 11 multiplex families and 25 singletons were recruited into the study. A combination of targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS), long-range polymerase chain reaction, Sanger sequencing and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification were utilized for genetic diagnosis. Clinical evaluation was conducted through renal function testing and ultrasonographic kidney volume analysis. Results We identified 29 ADPKD pathogenic mutations from 36 families achieving an overall molecular genetic diagnostic rate of 112/126 (88.9%), including 29/36 (80.6%) in families. A total of 28/36 (77.8%) families had pathogenic mutations in PKD1 , of which 17/28 (60.7%) were truncating, and 1/36 (2.8%) had a pathogenic variant in the IFT140 gene. A total of 20/29 (69%) of the identified ADPKD mutations were novel and described for the first time, including a TSC2-PKD1 contiguous syndrome. Clinical analysis indicated that genetically unresolved ADPKD cases had no apparent association between kidney volume and age. Conclusion We describe for the first time the genetic landscape of ADPKD in Kuwait. The observed genetic heterogeneity underlining ADPKD along with the wide phenotypic spectrum reveal the level of complexity in disease pathophysiology. ADPKD genetic testing could improve the care of patients through improved disease prognostication, guided treatment and genetic counselling. However, to fulfil the potential of genetic testing, it is important to overcome the hurdle of genetically unresolved ADPKD cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with provoked thrombo-inflammatory responses. Early in the COVID-19 pandemic this was thought to contribute to hypercoagulability and multi-organ system complications in infected patients. Limited studies have evaluated the impact of therapeutic anti-coagulation therapy (AC) in alleviating these risks in COVID-19 positive patients. Our study aimed to investigate whether long-term therapeutic AC can decrease the risk of multi-organ system complications (MOSC) including stroke, limb ischemia, gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, in-hospital and intensive care unit death in COVID-19 positive patients hospitalized during the early phase of the pandemic in the United States. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of all COVID-19 positive United States Veterans between March 2020 and October 2020. Patients receiving continuous outpatient therapeutic AC for a least 90 days prior to their initial COVID-19 positive test were assigned to the AC group. Patients who did not receive AC were included in a control group. We analyzed the primary study outcome of MOSC between the AC and control groups using binary logistic regression analysis (Odd-Ratio; OR). Results: We identified 48,066 COVID-19 patients, of them 879 (1.8%) were receiving continuous therapeutic AC. The AC cohort had significantly worse comorbidities than the control group. On the adjusted binary logistic regression model, therapeutic AC significantly decreased in-hospital mortality rate (OR; 0.67, p = 0.04), despite a higher incidence of GI bleeding (OR; 4.00, p = 0.02). However, therapeutic AC did not significantly reduce other adverse events. Conclusion: AC therapy reduced in-hospital death early in the COVID-19 pandemic among patients who were hospitalized with the infection. However, it did not decrease the risk of MOSC. Additional trials are needed to determine the effectiveness of AC in preventing complications associated with ongoing emerging strains of the COVID-19 virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A transparent smart window made of recycled polycarbonate plastic (PCP) waste was prepared and immobilized with strontium aluminate phosphor nanoparticles (SAPN). It has afterglow emission, super-hydrophobicity, durability, photostability, good mechanical properties, ultraviolet protection, and high optical transmittance. To create an afterglow emission polycarbonate smart window (SAPN@PCP), recycled polycarbonate waste was integrated with various concentrations of SAPN (15–52 nm). SAP micro-scale powder was made using the solid-state high temperature method. The SAP nanoparticles were produced using the top-down method. To create a colorless plastic bulk, recycled polycarbonate waste was inserted into a hot bath. This colorless plastic was thoroughly combined with SAPN and cast to create an afterglow luminous smart window. To investigate its photoluminescence properties, spectrum profiles of excitation and emission were measured. According to the luminescence parameters, the phosphorescent colorless polycarbonate plates displayed a change in color to strong green under UV illumination and greenish-yellow in a dark box. The afterglow polycarbonate smart window displayed two emission peaks at 496 and 526 nm, and an absorption wavelength of 373 nm. Upon increasing the SAPN ratio, the hydrophobic activity, hardness, photostability, and UV protection were improved. Luminescent polycarbonate substrates with lower SAPN ratio demonstrated rapid and reversible fluorescence under UV light, while the higher SAPN content in the luminous polycarbonate substrates showed afterglow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinazoline is an essential scaffold, known to be linked with various biological activities. Some of the prominent biological activities of this system are analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-bacterial, anti-diabetic, anti-malarial, sedative–hypnotic, anti-histaminic, anti-cancer, anti-convulsant, anti-tubercular, and anti-viral activities. This diversity in the pharmacological response of the quinazoline system has encouraged medicinal chemists to study and discover this system and its multitude of potential against several biological activities. Many of these studies have successfully investigated the structure–activity relationship to explore the specific structural features of their biological targets. The developing understanding of quinazoline derivatives and their biological targets presents opportunities for the discovery of novel therapeutics. This review represents different aspects of medicinal chemistry, including drug design, structure–activity relationship, and the mode of action of some analgesic and anti-inflammatory quinazoline compounds. It pays comprehensive attention to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of quinazolines from the viewpoint of drug discovery and its development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low energy efficiency of the solar distillers is one of the key barriers to their effectual usage in the desalination domain. Hence, this work introduces an experimental investigation to enhance the freshwater productivity of the hemispherical solar distiller with different trays' configurations and utilizing wick materials. This was achieved by utilizing iron trays and wicks in the circular basin of hemispherical solar still in order to increase the vaporization surface area for better heat transfer of saline water. The performance of the hemispherical solar distiller was investigated with flat and v-corrugated iron trays configurations. Three distillers were designed and examined, namely, conventional hemispherical solar distiller, hemispherical solar distillery with flat iron trays, and hemispherical solar distiller with v-corrugated iron trays. Moreover, the combined effects of using wick materials with flat and v-corrugated iron trays in the basin of hemispherical distiller have been also investigated. Experiments were carried out at the desert climate conditions of El-Oued (33°27′N, 7°11′E), Algeria. The results showed that the productivity improvement is 42.85% and 14.30% over the conventional hemispherical distiller for v-corrugated and flat trays hemispherical solar still (HSD), respectively. While the inclusion of wick materials with v-corrugated iron trays further increases the productivity by about 83.12% over the reference distiller. Moreover, the energy efficiency of the flat trays HSD, v-corrugated trays HSD, HSD flat trays and wicks, and HSD v-corrugated trays and wicks is 38.72%, 48.28%, 52.16%, and 61.67%, respectively. Additionally, the.cost of freshwater production of HSD v-corrugated trays and wicks was 41.72% lower than that of a traditional hemispherical distiller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]