Search

Magnetic responsive hydrogels (CMX-cl-P4VP/M-NPs) were successfully synthesized through in situ co-precipitation procedure and investigated using various techniques. The surface morphology analysis revealed that the M-NPs were uniformly distributed within the hydrogel matrix and had average sizes ranging from 4.98 to 15.02 nm. The graft copolymer containing nanoparticles exhibited a sensitive magnetic response, and their recovery could be facilitated by applying a magnetic field. The purpose of this research is to study the ability of the prepared magnetic hydrogel to remove AO-10 dye and hexavalent chromium ions (Cr(VI)) from the aqueous solution under various factors, namely contact time, pH, amount of adsorbent, coexisting ions and AO-10 and Cr(VI) concentrations. The outcomes of the batch adsorption demonstrated that the adsorbent hydrogel incorporated with a low percentage (10 %) of M-NPs had a strong affinity for the removal of AO-10 dye and Cr(VI) ions at an optimum pH = 3, and the removal percentage reached 99.3 and 97.4 % for 500 mg L

Four series of di-flouro, namely; 4-substituted phenylazo-3-flouro phenyl-4′-n-alkoxy 3-flouro phenylazo benzoates (Ina-d) based on aromatic rings with the azo/ester/azo linkages core, were prepared and investigated for their mesomorphic properties. An alkoxy group with chain length varied from n = 6 to 16 is attached to the terminal phenylazobenzoate moiety and the other terminal is a compact group (X = –CH3O, –CH3, H and Br) attached to phenylazo moiety. The mesophases were investigated by DSC and POM and compared with previously investigated dilaterally methyl substituted analogues. Terminally unsubstituted and Br substituted analogues displayed dimorphic N and SmA phases, except the lower homologue (n = 6), while terminally – CH3O analogues exhibited monomorphic N phase. For terminally – CH3 substituted, compounds with n = 6–12 exhibited only N phase, while compounds with n = 14 and 16 displayed N and SmA phases. Meanwhile, the dilateral F substituents result in an enhancement in clearing thermal transitions compared with dilateral methyl substituents with a wide mesophase range. TGA analysis revealed that the prepared compounds are thermally stable within mesophase temperature range, except – CH3O, –CH3 and Br derivatives with n = 6. Binary mixtures of I6a-d/I16a-d derivatives were investigated. The photo-physical property was also studied.

Background At the time of conducting this study, we were at the peak of the influenza season, and influenza vaccinations were not readily accessible throughout the country. Thus, predisposing many high-risk individuals to influenza infections in a time when coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was also highly circulating, and the emerging Omicron variant of concern was peaking in many countries worldwide. Materials and Methods We conducted a brief survey to prospectively estimate the frequency of influenza A and B and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) in samples received at our laboratories at Libyan Biotechnology Research Center, Tripoli, Libya, between December 1, 2021, and January 31, 2022, for patients complaining of respiratory symptoms using a multiplex reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction test for SARS-COV-2, influenza A and B, and RSV. Results We analyzed nasopharyngeal swabs in viral transport media from 2,186 samples. About 27% (589/2186) of study patients tested positive for SARS-COV-2, 2.8% (61/2186) were positive for influenza A virus, 0.18% (4/2186) for influenza B virus, and 1.4% (31/2186) tested positive for RSV. Conclusions These results revealed that along with COVID-19, influenza infections were also rising. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the most significant concern is the development of an influenza outbreak in the upcoming months. Therefore, continuing annual influenza vaccination is critical to increasing population immunity. National influenza surveillance and testing should also be conducted. Furthermore, sequencing and antigenic characterization should be performed regularly. There is a need for continuous monitoring in national laboratories to detect any zoonotic cases and substantial viral evolution.

Both chitosan and biochar are known as biodegradable and ecofriendly materials with different functional groups that enable strong binding with various pollutants. Dyes and pharmaceuticals in wastewater are categorized as serious hazardous pollutants due to their nonbiodegradability and therefore, must be removed before discharge in water resources. In this work, a novel nanobiosorbent was designed and fabricated from three constituents based on the pyrolysis of banana peels to produce nanobiochar (BPNB) as a sustainable material. This was then modified with nanosilica gel via microwave heating to yield (BPNB-SiO2). Chitosan hydrogel (Chit Hgel) as a biodegradable polymer was further crosslinked with BPNB-SiO2 to produce the aimed BPNB-SiO2-Chit Hgel nanobiosorbent with particle size in the range of 22.48–26.23 nm. The effects of initial nanobiosorbent dosage (1–50 mg), initial adsorbate pH (pH 2–12), shaking time (1–45 min), initial pollutant concentration (5–100 mg L− 1), temperature (288–333 K), and interfering salts on the adsorption process of Erythromycin antibiotic (ERM) and Congo red dye (CRD) pollutants were investigated and optimized. The pseudo-second-order model revealed the perfect fit in kinetic investigations of ERM and CRD by BPNB-SiO2-Chit Hgel. The Langmuir model achieved (R2 = 0.997 for ERM and R2 = 0.992 for CRD) as the highest correlation coefficients. Moreover, the adsorption reactions of ERM and CRD onto BPNB-SiO2-Chit Hgel were classified as spontaneous and endothermic. The removal of ERM (92.80–96.50%) and CRD (92.80–95.0%) from tap, sea, and wastewater was successfully established to confirm the capability of the investigated BPNB-SiO2-Chit Hgel nanobiosorbent in removal of these two pollutants from polluted samples.

A monopole antenna operated at 2.45 GHz and embedded with artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) for wearable communication systems is investigated in this article. The proposed antenna is composed of a metalized loop radiator with a coplanar waveguide microstrip feedline which is affixed on a cotton fabric material substrate. As well, a cotton-based AMC surface is utilized to eliminate the body’s absorbed radiation and enhance the gain of the antenna. It is composed of 5 × 5 array unit cells etched with I-shaped slots. Using this configuration, simulations show that the specific absorption rate (SAR) level was significantly reduced. Considering flat and rounded body parts, it was found that the SAR values averaged over 10 g at a distance of 1 mm away from the tissues model were only 0.18 W/kg and 0.371 W/kg, respectively. Additionally, the antenna gain was improved up to 7.2 dBi with an average radiation efficiency of 72%. Detailed analysis with experimental measurements of the cotton-based antenna for different operation scenarios is introduced. The measured data show a good correlation with the electromagnetic simulation results.

Controversy exists over the use of mesh, its type and configuration in repair of hiatal hernia. We have used biological mesh for large or recurrent hiatal hernias. We have developed a mesh configuration to better enhance the tensile strength of the hiatus by folding the mesh over the edge of the hiatus-entitled the "starburst" configuration. We report our experience with the starburst configuration, comparing it to our results with the keyhole configuration.Medical records of all patients undergoing either the keyhole or starburst mesh configuration hiatal hernia repair were reviewed between 2017 and 2021. Data gathered included age, sex, type of hernia (sliding, paraesophageal, or recurrent), fundoplication type (none, Nissen, Toupet, Dor, Collis-Nissen, Collis-Toupet, or magnetic sphincter augmentation [MSA]), 30-day complications, and long-term outcomes (hiatal hernia recurrence, reflux-symptom recurrence, dysphagia, dilations, reoperations).From 7/2017 to 8/2019, 51 cases using the keyhole mesh were completed. Sliding hiatal hernia comprised 4%, paraesophageal hernia (PEH) 64% and recurrent hiatal hernia (RHH) 34% of cases. Distribution of fundoplication type: 2% none, 41% Nissen, 41% Toupet, 8% Dor, 2% Collis-Nissen, and 6% Collis-Toupet. 30-day complication rate 31%. Long-term outcomes: recurrent hiatal hernia 16%, dysphagia 12%, dysphagia requiring dilation(s) 10%, recurrent GERD symptoms 4%, and reoperation 14%. From 10/2020 to 8/2021, 58 cases using the starburst configuration were completed. PEH comprised 60% and RHH 40%. Distribution of fundoplication type: 10% none, 40% Nissen, 43% Toupet, 5% MSA, 2% Collis-Toupet. 30-day complication rate 16%. Long-term outcomes: recurrent hiatal hernia 19%, dysphagia 14%, dilations 5%, recurrent GERD symptoms 9%, and reoperations 3%.The starburst mesh configuration compares favorably with the keyhole configuration with respect to postoperative dysphagia, need for esophageal dilation, and GERD symptom recurrence, with similar recurrence rates. We are continuing to further refine this technique and study the long-term outcomes.

In this article, an ultra-wideband printed flexible monopole antenna is proposed for indoor wireless communications. A flexible Rogers RO3003 is used as a substrate, and its performance is estimated for a flat state and when subject to bending along the y-axis. A 2.45 and 5.8 GHz dual-band textile artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) surface consisting of a 4 × 4 unit-cell array was integrated into antenna design with optimum separation distance to extend its potential applications to wearable on-body communications. The specific absorption rate (SAR) levels were numerically investigated using the Hugo human voxel model at both frequencies to evaluate the on-body safety level. Detailed analysis is presented for antenna designs of flat and bent states in free space and on the human body. The proposed UWB flexible antenna has the size of 41 × 38 × 0.25 mm (0.33λ0 × 0.31λ0 × 0.002λ0 at 2.45 GHz). It was added at a distance of 3 mm above a textile AMC surface of 99 × 99 mm. The integrated model is fabricated and experimentally characterized. Measured data and numerical results show that the impedance matching and radiation characteristics are slightly affected by introducing the bending and human body loading. With these remarkable features, the integrated model can be utilized for wireless indoor and wearable applications.

This paper proposes an enhanced orca predation algorithm (OPA) called the Lévy flight orca predation algorithm (LFOPA). LFOPA improves OPA by integrating the Lévy flight (LF) strategy into the chasing phase of OPA and employing the greedy selection (GS) strategy at the end of each optimization iteration. This enhancement is made to avoid the entrapment of local optima and to improve the quality of acquired solutions. OPA is a novel, efficient population-based optimizer that surpasses other reliable optimizers. However, owing to the low diversity of orcas, OPA is prone to stalling at local optima in some scenarios. In this paper, LFOPA is proposed for addressing global and real-world optimization challenges. To investigate the validity of the proposed LFOPA, it is compared with seven robust optimizers, including the improved multi-operator differential evolution algorithm (IMODE), covariance matrix adaptation evolution strategy (CMA-ES), gravitational search algorithm (GSA), grey wolf optimizer (GWO), moth-flame optimization algorithm (MFO), Harris hawks optimization (HHO), and the original OPA on 10 unconstrained test functions linked to 2020 IEEE Congress on Evolutionary Computation (CEC’20). Furthermore, four different design engineering issues, including the welded beam, the tension/compression spring, the pressure vessel, and the speed reducer, are solved using the proposed LFOPA, to test its applicability. It was also employed to address node localization challenges in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) as an example of real-world applications. Results and tests of significance show that the proposed LFOPA performs much better than OPA and other competitors. LFOPA simulation results on node localization challenges are much superior to other competitors in terms of minimizing squared errors and localization errors.

Introduction In patients with scleroderma the morphological remodeling and alteration of right ventricular (RV) function begins even before the setting of pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH). These alterations are associated with worse outcomes and high mortality. Purpose Early detection of RV dysfunction is possible using advanced imaging techniques and can lead to specific therapeutic measures before installation of PAH. Purpose of this study is to evaluate new indices, based on speckle tracking technology, for identification of subclinical RV systolic failure. Methods Twenty-five (25) scleroderma patients without any signs or symptoms of PAH and twenty-five (25) healthy subjects were included in the present study. Two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) and two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) were performed. All the usual 2DE, Doppler and tissue Doppler imaging measurements were obtained for the evaluation of RV function. Moreover, TAPSE, maximum systolic myocardial velocity from TDI of lateral tricuspid valve annulus (SRV), auto RV global longitudinal strain (aRVGLS) and auto RV free wall longitudinal strain (aRVFWLS) by 2DSTE were measured. aRVGLS is a new index, with appropriate RV function echo logistics in new technology echo systems, independent from known manual measurements. Results In scleroderma patients significantly higher systolic pulmonary artery pressure was recorded, although it remained within normal limits in both groups. Scleroderma patients had significant decreased RV systolic function with significantly lower TAPSE and SRV. Both aRVGLS and aRVFWLS were also significantly lower in scleroderma patients compared to the control group. aRVGLS was the best predictor of early RV systolic impairment in patients with scleroderma. Conclusions Scleroderma is a severe systematic disease associated with high mortality rates. RV remodeling, dysfunction, and progressive pulmonary artery hypertension are among the most important internal organ manifestations of this disease. Early detection of RV dysfunction is possible by 2DSTE, and may be helpful to guide further therapy in these patients. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan metode kualitatif dengan teknik pengumpulan data melalui observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi, serta menggunakan teknik analisis data melalui reduksi data, penyajian data, verifikasi data dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian ini adalah 1. Peranan akreditasi sekolah dalam peningkatan mutu pendidikan di SMP Muhammadiyah Lakea, yang diarahkan pada penilaian penyelenggara pendidikan yang dilaksanakan oleh sekolah yang mencakup 8 standar pendidikan. Dalam pelaksanaan akreditasi ini, sekolah berupaya menunjukkan bukti pelaksanaan pendidikan yang mengarah pada 8 standar serta standar penilaian yang dilakukan oleh tim akreditasi yaitu, standar isi, standar proses, standar kompetensi lulusan, pendidik dan pendidikan. standar, standar sarana dan prasarana, standar pengelolaan, standar pembiayaan dan standar penilaian. 2. Implikasi pelaksanaan akreditasi sekolah dalam peningkatan mutu pendidikan di SMP Muhammadiyah Lakea, yaitu: 1). Sekolah berupaya meningkatkan penyelenggaraan pendidikan yang meliputi 8 Standar Nasional Pendidikan sesuai dengan rekomendasi Tim Akreditasi, 2). Berbagai persiapan yang dilakukan sekolah sebelum Tim Akreditasi datang, dapat dimanfaatkan oleh sekolah untuk menjaga mutu pendidikan, 3). Memberikan bimbingan kepada guru untuk memperbaiki proses pembelajaran yang menurut Tim Akreditasi belum memadai.

Radiation-induced Ag° nanoparticles (NPs) in silver nitrate gel dosimeter incorporating various components was investigated in the dose range of 0–100 Gy. The gel responses were analyzed at 450 nm, a Surface Plasmon Resonance band of AgNPs. The radiation sensitivity of the gel increases with increasing Ag+ concentrations and isopropanol, % and decreases with boosting gelatin content and H+ ions. This gel features good water equivalency in energies from 0.3 to 20 MeV and has potential applications in the dose range of 5–100 Gy based on the selected compositions. Thus, it can cover blood irradiation and radiotherapy dosimetry applications.

Study Design and Setting A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based research was carried out. The questionnaires were filled by a total of 350 dental house surgeons who were working in various dental colleges of Islamabad and Rawalpindi in Pakistan. Objectives The objective was to assess the knowledge and mentality of dental house surgeons regarding the proper use, application and limitations of denture adhesives. Methodology A survey questionnaire was distributed among the dental house surgeons (n = 350). Cross tabulations were done and the Pearson’s Chi‑square test was used to compare the variables using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (P ≤ 0.05). Results Approximately, 85.5% of house surgeons who answered the questionnaire had learnt some of the basics about adhesives as part of their undergraduate studies. 73% agreed that Adhesives can be useful in aiding the stabilization and retention of dentures, and 95% agreed that dentists should inform denture patients about the proper use. However only a relatively small percentage (38%) routinely informed patients about the potential misuse of adhesives as part of their instructions. Conclusion Majority of the house surgeons had sound knowledge about DAs and agreed for the need to increase patient awareness towards these products. Sufficient dentist and patient knowledge towards denture adhesives is paramount in establishing patient satisfaction and knowledge towards dentures usage. Key words Denture adhesives, Awareness, Knowledge, Questionnaire

Serotonin and melatonin are important signaling and stress mitigating molecules. However, their role and molecular mechanism in the accumulation of isoflavones are not clearly defined. To elucidate...

Multidrug and toxic compound extrusion (MATE) is a family of membrane transporters that transport ions and secondary metabolites like anthocyanins in plants. Although various research on MATE has been carried out on different plant species, this is the first comprehensive report to exploit the Daucus carota genome to identify the MATE gene family. We investigated the chromosomal distribution, gene duplication, motif identification, cis-element analysis, in vitro cultures, stress treatment, protein docking, and simulation of DcMATEs. Our studies identified 45 DcMATEs through genome-wide analysis and detected five segmental and six tandem duplications from its genome. The chromosome distribution, phylogenetic analysis, and cis-regulatory elements revealed the structural diversity and numerous functions associated with the DcMATEs. Further, we quantified anthocyanin content and identified the co-expression of DcMATE21 with anthocyanin biosynthesis genes in in vitro cultures under ABA, SA, MJ, SNP, and PHE stress treatments. In addition, membrane dynamics of DcMATE21 with anthocyanin (cyanidin-3-glucoside) identified the binding pocket showing extensive H-bond interactions with ten amino acids present in the transmembrane helix of 7, 8, and 10 of DcMATE21. This investigation speculates the involvement of DcMATE21 in anthocyanin accumulation in in vitro cultures of D. carota.

Biochars are biosorbents made from a wide range of agricultural or animal residues that involve functional groups to enable binding with different species. In the current work, pyrolysis of artichoke leaves was done to generate nanobiochar (NanoBch) and enriched with ethylenediamine (EDA) as nitrogen-rich derivative to yield (NanoBch-EDA). This was characterized by different techniques and compared with NanoBch. The evaluated NanoBch-EDA showed promising removal performance under optimized conditions of contact time, nanosorbent dosage, initial concentration of Pn and Cr(VI), pH, temperature, and interfering ions. The elimination processes of Pn and Cr(VI) onto (NanoBch-EDA) by four isotherm models (Langmuir, Dubinin-Radushkevitch, Temkin, and Freundlich) were discussed. In Pn elimination process, the Langmuir model achieved (R2 = 0.99) as the highest correlation coefficient. Otherwise, the Freundlich (R2 = 0.98) was the applicable model in Cr(VI) elimination. The values of maximum capacity qmax (mg g−1) for adsorption of Pn and Cr(VI) onto NanoBch-EDA were 21.93 and 79.37 mg g−1, respectively. Based on the obtained R2 (0.999), the pseudo-second-order model was shown to be the superlative match for describing the elimination of Pn and Cr(VI) by NanoBch-EDA. The reaction was stated as spontaneous and endothermic based on parameters signs and values obtained from thermodynamic studies. NanoBch-EDA (60 mg) was found highly effective in extracting 95.0%, 90.0%, and 92.0% of Pn (25 mg L−1) from tap, waste, and sea water, respectively, while 20 mg of NanoBch-EDA removed 96.0%, 94.6%, and 97.3% of Cr(VI) 10 mg L−1 from tap, waste, and sea water, respectively.

PLA and its nanocomposite containing 3% chitosan nanoparticles (PLA-3CsNP) were studied to see how γ -irradiation affected their characteristics. Different doses of γ -irradiation were applied to the investigated materials under inquiry (5–40 kGy) using 60Co at ambient condition. The irradiation materials were characterized by FT-IR, GPC, mechanical tensile test, DSC, XRD, and TGA in solid and chloroform solutions. The molecular weight of the studied materials was lowered when the irradiation dose was increased, indicating that γ-irradiation had the dominating effect through oxidative degradation, and chain scission. The addition of chitosan to PLA reduces the impact of γ-irradiation, while the samples irradiated in solution showed more degradation after irradiation than irradiated solid films. Irradiation caused a decrease in tensile strength and elongation at break values. Both the melting temperature (Tm) and the glass transition temperature (Tg) decreased as the irradiation dose was increased. The cold crystallization peak temperatures were reduced when pure PLA was irradiated in solution. The thermal stability of PLA was diminished as the irradiation dose was raised, and this effect was more pronounced in samples irradiated in chloroform solution.

Objective: To present the first Egyptian clinical practice guideline for kidney transplantation (KT). Methods: A panel of multidisciplinary subspecialties related to KT prepared this document. The sources of information included updates of six international guidelines, and review of several relevant international and Egyptian publications. All statements were graded according to the strength of clinical practice recommendation and the level of evidence. All recommendations were discussed by the panel members who represented most of the licensed Egyptian centres practicing KT. Results: Recommendations were given on preparation, surgical techniques and surgical complications of both donors and recipients. A special emphasis was made on the recipient’s journey with immunosuppression. It starts with setting the scene by covering the donor and recipient evaluations, medicolegal requirements, recipient’s protective vaccines, and risk assessment. It spans desensitisation and induction strategies to surgical approach and potential complications, options of maintenance immunosuppression, updated treatment of acute rejection and chemoprophylactic protocols. It ends with monitoring for potential complications of the recipient’s suppressed immunity and the short- and long-term complications of immunosuppressive drugs. It highlights the importance of individualisation of immunosuppression strategies consistent with pre-KT risk assessment. It emphasises the all-important role of anti-human leucocyte antigen antibodies, particularly the donor-specific antibodies (DSAs), in acute and chronic rejection, and eventual graft and patient survival. It addresses the place of DSAs across the recipient’s journey with his/her gift of life. Conclusion: This guideline introduces the first proposed standard of good clinical practice in the field of KT in Egypt. Abbreviations: Ab: antibody; ABMR: Ab-mediated rejection; ABO: ABO blood groups; BKV: BK polyomavirus; BMI: body mass index; BTS: British Transplantation Society; CAN: chronic allograft nephropathy; CDC: complement-dependent cytotoxicity; CKD: chronic kidney disease; CMV: cytomegalovirus; CNI: calcineurin inhibitor; CPRA: Calculated Panel Reactive Antibodies; (dn)DSA: (de novo) donor-specific antibodies; ECG: electrocardiogram; ESWL: extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy; FCM: flow cytometry; GBM: glomerular basement membrane; GN: glomerulonephritis; HIV: human immunodeficiency virus; HLA: human leucocyte antigen; HPV: human papilloma virus; IL2-RA: interleukin-2 receptor antagonist; IVIg: intravenous immunoglobulin; KT(C)(R): kidney transplantation/transplant (candidate) (recipient); (L)(O)LDN: (laparoscopic) (open) live-donor nephrectomy; MBD: metabolic bone disease; MCS: Mean channel shift (in FCM-XM); MFI: mean fluorescence intensity; MMF: mycophenolate mofetil; mTOR(i): mammalian target of rapamycin (inhibitor); NG: ‘not graded’; PAP: Papanicolaou smear; PCN: percutaneous nephrostomy; PCNL: percutaneous nephrolithotomy; PKTU: post-KT urolithiasis; PLEX: plasma exchange; PRA: panel reactive antibodies; PSI: proliferation signal inhibitor; PTA: percutaneous transluminal angioplasty; RAS: renal artery stenosis; RAT: renal artery thrombosis;:rATG: rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin; RCT: randomised controlled trial; RIS: Relative MFI Score; RVT: renal vein thrombosis; TB: tuberculosis; TCMR: T-cell-mediated rejection; URS: ureterorenoscopy; (CD)US: (colour Doppler) ultrasonography; VCUG: voiding cystourethrogram; XM: cross match; ZN: Ziehl–Neelsen stain

In the present work two homologue series of four-ring azo/ester/imine compounds; namely, 4-(4′–alkoxy–phenylazo) phenyl–4′′–(benzylidene–amino) benzoate, In, and 4–(4′–alkoxy–phenylazo) phenyl–4′′–[(pyridin-3–ylmethylene)–amino] benzoate, IIn, were prepared and investigated for their mesophase behaviour. In these two types of homologue series, the length of the terminal alkoxy group (n) varies between 6 and 16 carbons. Compounds prepared in both series were structurally characterised via thermogravimetric and elemental analyses, FTIR, 1H-NMR, and mass spectroscopy. Their mesophase transition temperatures were determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), whereas, the type of the mesophase was identified by polarised light microscopy (PLM). The molecular structure–property relationship was conducted aiming to investigate the effect of replacing the terminal phenyl group in In with a pyridyl one in IIn, in addition to the effect of variation of the alkoxy chain length. Aiming to investigate the effect of inversion of the methineazo group on the mesophase behaviour of the compounds, a comparison was made between the prepared series of compounds (In) with previously prepared four rings 4-(4′-alkoxyphenylazo)–phenyl 4′′–phenyliminomethyl–benzoate phenyl-4ʹ-(4′′-alkoxyphenylazo) benzoate, IIIn. Finally, the mesophases of series IIn were compared with their corresponding three-ring analogues, 4-(4′-alkoxy phenyl −4′′-[(pyridin-4-ylmethylene)–amino] benzoate analogues (IVn).

In this research, the removal of cadmium (Cd) from simulated wastewater was investigated by using a fixed bed bio-electrochemical reactor. The effects of the main controlling factors on the performance of the removal process such as applied cell voltage, initial Cd concentration, pH of the catholyte, and the mesh number of the cathode were investigated. The results showed that the applied cell voltage had the main impact on the removal efficiency of cadmium where increasing the applied voltage led to higher removal efficiency. Meanwhile increasing the applied voltage was found to be given lower current efficiency and higher energy consumption. No significant effect of initial Cd concentration on the removal efficiency of cadmium but increasing the initial concentration would be given higher current efficiency and lower energy consumption. The results established that using a pH value lower than three results in a sharp decrease in the removal efficiency as well as using a pH value higher than seven results in decreasing the removal efficiency. Using a mesh number higher than 30 gave a lower removal efficiency. The best operating conditions were found to be an applied potential of 1.8 V, an initial Cd concentration of 125 ppm, and a pH of 7. Under these operating conditions with the using a stack of stainless with mesh number 30 as a packed bed cathode, a complete removal efficiency of Cd(100%) was obtained at a current efficiency of 83.57% and energy consumption of 0.57 kWh/kg Cd.

The rush to be the first to demonstrate a practical hypersonic cruise missile has never been more frantic among the world’s superpowers, especially since China and India have also announced their own programme. The main hurdle for safe hypersonic flight is the severe shock wave-boundary layer interaction (SWBLI) that could induce flow separation. The separation could lead to inlet unstart and also structural damage at the flow re-attachment point. The simplest method to control these phenomena is by using passive flow control devices such as micro-vortex generator (MVG). The MVG is typically sized in the range of sub-boundary layer and the vortex generated can induce an early transition to turbulence thus avoiding or reducing the impact of flow separation. Many studies have been published with regard to MVG, but most were done in low supersonic speed and not in the hypersonic flow regime. In the current study, the MVG array was placed strategically at various locations on a hypersonic inlet-isolator representative geometry. The MVG has been proven to be very effective in eliminating or reducing the size of flow separation thus reducing the associated peak pressure at the re-attachment point.

Myotomy length for per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is standardized for type I and II achalasia. However, for type III achalasia, jackhammer esophagus, diffuse esophageal spasms and esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, there is no standard. Determining myotomy length based on the high-pressure zone found during high-resolution manometry (HRM) and spastic length found during esophagography may be used to determine adequate myotomy length without excess muscle destruction. The records of patients who have undergone POEM procedures at our institution had the following data gleaned: age, sex, esophageal spastic diagnosis, length of high-pressure zone and lower esophageal sphincter (LES) position by HRM, length of spastic esophagus by esophagography, position of the z-line by esophagoscopy and length of myotomy performed. Outcomes were assessed based on patient symptomatic improvement and need for re-intervention. 71 patients were evaluated for POEM, with 67 completing POEM. There was an average difference in LES position by HRM and z-line position by esophagoscopy of 3.9 ± 3.0 cm. There was an average difference in high-pressure zone by HRM and spastic length by esophagography of 4.9 ± 3.2 cm. Overall, with a median of 20 months follow-up, 74% achieved long-term symptomatic improvement, with 17 patients requiring re-intervention. Discordance among HRM, esophagography and esophagoscopy can be significant. Caution should be employed with using these methods to determine myotomy length in POEM.

In this study, a wide-band compact patch antenna array is developed for 60 GHz band applications. The antenna array consists of eight identical elements. Each element is a simple microstrip-fed rectangular radiating patch printed on the top side of a Rogers 5880 substrate. A rectangular ground plane is printed on the bottom side. To adjust the impedance matching for broadband operation, a complete circular-shaped slot and a part of circular-shaped slot are etched off the ground plane and the patch, respectively. A technique to feed the array elements unequally is employed for design a more compact antenna structure with improved gain and impedance bandwidth. An electromagnetic band-gap (EBG) reflector below the array structure is employed to decrease backward radiation and improve front-to-back (F/B) radiation ratio. The antenna array with the EBG reflector has a compact size with overall dimensions of 17.5 × 22 × 1.262 mm3. It achieves operation bandwidth from 56.5 to 65.2 GHz (|S11| ≤ − 10 dB), which covers the 60 GHz unlicensed band (57–64 GHz). The gain variation is from 12 to 16 dBi over the entire operating band. These features make the proposed antenna array system a suitable candidate for industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) broadband applications at 60 GHz band.

Background Recurrence after hiatal hernia repair is common. The causes are uncertain. Our observation is the site of recurrence is primarily the nonsutured or nonreinforced anterior-left lateral portion of the hiatus. Our aim was to assess the distribution of hiatal hernia recurrence location as a basis for developing a theory of recurrence. Methods Consecutive patients who underwent repair of recurrent hiatal hernias from March 2012 to December 2019 were reviewed. Data collected included age, sex, date of operation, location of hiatal hernia recurrence, operative approach, method of hiatal hernia repair, fundoplication performed, need for gastrectomy, and additional procedures. Results One hundred and eight consecutive patients were studied. The distribution of recurrence locations was as follows: anterior 67%, posterior 12%, and circumferential 21%. Foreshortened esophagus was a contributing factor in 12%. Median time from the original repair to recurrence was 1.5 years (interquartile range 0.9 to 3.75 years) for posterior recurrences, 2.75 years (interquartile range 1.15 to 8.5 years) for circumferential recurrences, and 3.25 years (interquartile range 1.38 to 10 years) for anterior recurrences. Recurrences were repaired in a variety of techniques, depending on the clinical circumstances. Conclusions Hiatal hernia recurrences due to failure of the crural closure were less common, but early, recurrences. The majority of recurrences were due to stretching of the hiatus anterior and to the left of the esophagus. We theorize that the pathophysiology of late hiatal hernia recurrence is widening of the anterior and left lateral portion of the hiatus secondary to repeated stress from differential pressures that eventually overcomes the tensile strength of the hiatus.

This work deals with assessing the efficient performance of sodium caseinate (SC) as protein-based drug delivery system of niacin (NA) than carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). In this respect the hydrogels from complexation of chitosan with sodium caseinate (SC/Ch) or sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC/Ch) were prepared. The Synthesized NA free and loaded hydrogels were characterized by many techniques for examining the interaction, morphology, swelling, encapsulation efficiency (EE) and loading (L) % of niacin, as well as cytotoxicity study. The finding data showed the promising behavior of SC/Ch hydrogel than CMC/Ch hydrogel, toward the amount of loaded NA (95.6%) and in vitro slow sustained release up to 24 h. Whereas, the entrapment efficiency of the CMC/Ch to nicotinic acid was reached 85.6%, and it possessed highly initial burst release followed by a slower release up to 24 h. At pH 7.4 (simulated intestinal fluid) both hydrogels provided higher level of releasing profile to NA than pH 2.1 (gastric fluid). The NA release from hydrogels followed Fickian and non-Fickian diffusion mechanism according to pH 7.4 and 2.1, respectively. It is interesting to note that, the data obtained are higher than those obtained from literature reported hydrogel, e.g., poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate). Neutral red uptake and lactate dehydrogenase assays confirmed both hydrogels have good biocompatibility and could be used as nontoxic drug delivery system. So, we recommended SC/Ch hydrogel as an effective controlled niacin drug delivery system with reducing systemic side effects and improved intestinal targeting efficiency.

In order to investigate the effect of replacing the azo group with the azomethine in the previously investigated four-ring azo/ester/azo compounds, 4-alkoxy phenylazo phenyl 4ʹ-(4′′-alkoxyphenylazo...

Twenty four different homologues of the formula 4-alkoxy phenylazo phenyl 4ʹ-(4''-alkoxyphenylazo) benzoates (Im/n) were prepared and investigated for their mesophase behaviour. In these compounds,...

Background: Achalasia and other esophageal motility disorders are incurable diseases for which palliation and symptom relief are the goals. One of the many ways these diseases are treated is with either a Heller myotomy or, now more commonly, per-oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Unfortunately, symptoms persistence or recurrence is common. This review presents our current approach to these complex patients. Methods: Review of the literature pertaining to approaches to recurrent or persistent symptoms after myotomy for esophageal motility disorders and elucidation of our multidisciplinary approach to this patient group. Results: There are a myriad of causes of recurrent or persistent symptoms. These include incomplete myotomy, periesophageal scarring, reflux-induced stricture, obstructing fundoplication, functional dysphagia, and end-stage achalasia. Therapeutic options include redo myotomy (either Heller or POEM), botulinum toxin injection, pneumatic, balloon or Savary dilation, adhesiolysis, and fundoplication reversal or esophagectomy. Choice of approach is best done through multidisciplinary consensus. Conclusions: A multidisciplinary approach to patients with persistent and recurrent symptoms after myotomy can best tailor the therapeutic approach based on symptom causation.

Background Hemophilic arthropathy results in pain, deformity, and disability with severe impairments, activity limitation, and thus productivity loss. Also patterns of treatment interfere with patients’ life, so the quality of life should be assessed when evaluating treatment. The aim of this work was to assess the quality of life of children with hemophilic arthropathy and its relation to clinical joint health. Results The study was carried out on fifty boys with hemophilic arthropathy. All patients were subjected to thorough local clinical assessment of the most affected and/or target joint using Hemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS 2.1) and assessment of quality of life using Haemo quality of life (Haemo-Qol) questionnaire children and parent versions. Among the fifty hemophilic patients, 36 (72%) patients were hemophilia A and 14 (28 %) patients were hemophilia B. The age at first hemarthrosis ranged from 1 to 8 years with a mean of 2.40±1.78. While the number of joints affected in the studied patients ranged from 2 to 13 joints with a mean of 7±3.25. As regards the severity, 23 patients (46%) had severe, and 27 (54%) had moderate hemophilia. Forty four (88%) patients had different degrees of anemia. There was significant correlation between child Haemo-QoL with degree of anemia (r = 0.291, P = 0.040), mainly with view and school dimensions. There were significant correlations between child and parent Haemo-QoL and HJHS with each of the following: factor activity level, duration of the disease, duration of joint disease, number of bleeding attacks last year, and number of joints affected. Synovectomy was done for 5 (10%) patients. The total child Haemo-QoL score was statistically significantly lower after the intervention (P=0.043), with a significant improvement in physical health, feeling, view, family, school and sports, treatment, and dealing dimensions. In the current study, there were significant positive correlations between child and parent Haemo-QoL and HJHS scores. Conclusions The quality of life in patients with hemophilic arthropathy was influenced by the joint health, factor activity level, disease duration, number of bleeding attacks, number of joints affected (during life), duration of joint disease, and presence of hepatitis C virus.

Chitosan (Cs) bis-aldehyde Schiff base derivatives were synthesized by condensation of Cs with three bis-aldehydes namely; butane-1,4-diyl bis(4-formylbenzoate), N,N'-(butane-1,4-diyl)bis(2-(4-formylphenoxy)acetamide) and 4,4'-(butane-1,4-diylbis(oxy))dibenzaldehyde. The prepared Cs derivatives were blended with carboxymethyl chitosan(CMC) and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) to produce semi-IPNs polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs). and characterized with respect to their molecular structure and physio-chemical properties. The antibacterial activity against H. pylori (and in vitro Inosine 5'-monophosphate dehydrogenase IMPDH inhibitory assay) was evaluated. Additionally, a preliminary in vitro assessment for wound healing was performed against PECs in which wound closure percentages, and rates were investigated indicating an accelerated wound healing compared with untreated cells. The PEC based on Schiff base PEC containing amide linkage showed the highest wound healing ability. A minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was obtained for the PEC sample containing Cs Schiff base derived from 4,4'-(butane-1, 4-diylbis(oxy))dibenzaldehyde at a dose of 0.98 μg/ml inhibiting H. pylori growth by 100%. Additionally, the selected above-mentioned compound was selected to test its inhibitory activity against the HpIMPDH enzyme in addition to its selectivity towards the hIMPDH2 enzyme and was found to have promising activity against the HpIMPDH enzyme with IC

Background A prospective study to assess the feasibility of stone dusting technique (low energy and high frequency) during laser lithotripsy in symptomatic upper urinary tract |(UUT) stones. Methods Sixty patients with symptomatic single or multiple UUT stones less than 3 cm in diameter were included. Patients with coagulation disorders and active UTIs were excluded. All patients were clinically evaluated and underwent non-contrast spiral CT (NCSCT) to detect stone site, size, number, Hounsfield unit. A rigid or flexible ureteroscope was used with stone dusting using the Ho: YAG laser at low-energy and high-frequency (0.5 J & 20 Hz) set. Operative and fluoroscopy time, total energy delivered, type of stent, hospitalization time, complications and its grade, and stone-free rate using NCSCT after 4 weeks were recorded. Results The mean stone size ± SD (range) was 1.55 ± 0.55 (0.5–3) cm; out of sixty patients (50 with single stone and 10 with multiple stones), fifty-five patients were stone-free at 4 weeks. Complications had occurred in 11 patients (eight with grade I, one with grade II, and two with grade IIIa) according to Clavien–Dindo grading of surgical complications. Stone size was the only parameter which correlated significantly with stone-free rate. No significant correlation was found between incidence of complications and other parameters (stone size, site, BMI, age and operative time). Conclusions Stone dusting technique is feasible, safe and effective in management of UUT stones.

Background Brazil has shown an increase in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) cases. GEDIIB (Brazilian Organization of Crohn's Disease and Colitis) established a data platform to create a national registry of IBD patients. The study aimed to characterize the profile of IBD patients and identify clinical factors associated with IBD severity. Methods A cohort study was conducted between Jul/20 and Aug/22. Data obtained from medical records and/or directly from patients were registered via REDCap. Local institutional review boards approved the study protocol. We designed a population-based risk model aimed at stratifying severe disease based on one or more outcome variables: previous hospitalization, surgery, and biologics. Univariate and bivariate analyses and Poisson modeling were used. Results A total of 1,179 patients were included: 600 (51%) with ulcerative colitis (UC), 568 (48%) with Crohn's Disease (CD), and 11 (0.9%) with indeterminate colitis. The mean age was 34.4±14.7y, 59% female, 73% Caucasian, and 85.3% non-smoker. Regarding the initial symptoms, 42% presented diarrhea, 38% abdominal pain, and 20% weight loss. The age of IBD symptom onset ranged from 1-87 years (32.3±14.4). According to the Montreal classification of CD, A1: 5%, A2: 63%, A3: 32%; L1: 29.7%, L2: 14.3%, L3: 41.2%, B1: 32%, B2: 26.7%, B3: 11.3%; perianal 15.5%. In UC, 46.3% presented pancolitis and 30% left-sided colitis. Only 3.9% were malnourished, 30.9% were overweight, and 18% were obese. The main extraintestinal manifestations were rheumatologic (21%). Regarding medical treatment, 68.1% of the patients received biologics (45% Infliximab, 29% Adalimumab, 9.7% Vedolizumab, and 8.8% Ustekinumab), 67% salicylates, 47.6% immunosuppressors, and 0.8% Tofacitinib. Of those submitted to surgery (34.1%, n=439), 54% were elective versus 46% urgent; most procedures (80%) were open/laparotomy, while 20% were laparoscopic. Of those, 8.5% were colectomy. The presence of CD, pancolitis, the absence of (isolated) proctitis, younger age ( Conclusion This is the first epidemiological study using the national patient registry organized by GEDIIB. The profile of patients with severe disease is consistent with the data in the literature, characterized by younger age, greater extent of disease, and extraintestinal manifestations. Further epidemiological studies should be encouraged to guide national policies aimed at the early diagnosis and treatment of IBD.