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A previous study suggested that the airlift condition is superior to the Optisol-GS condition for preserving the limbal tissue of the human cornea. The purpose of this research is to investigate a new preservation device that preserves the cornea while separating epithelial and endothelial areas. The differences after preserving the corneal epithelium under different conditions were compared. A total of 24 corneas of New Zealand rabbits were divided into four groups in which the corneal epithelia were submersed in Optisol-GS or under airlift conditions for 1 and 2 weeks at 4 ◦ C. Transparency, optical coherence tomography (OCT), hematoxylin and eosin (H &E) staining, and epithelial migration tests were used to assess corneal status. The epithelial migration examination showed significantly greater migration ability after the airlift condition. Corneas in the 1-week Optisol-GS group were the most transparent, followed by the 1-week airlift group. OCT showed a progressive increase in corneal thickness to the end of the study. H &E staining showed that the epithelial cells retained intact cellular structure and morphology of the cells for both 1-week-preserved groups. However, there was disruption of the corneal epithelial cell structure for both 2-week-preserved groups. Corneal epithelium preserved under the hypothermic airlift condition was comparable to that under the Optisol-GS condition., Scientific Reports, 13(1), art. no. 6933; 2023

Introduction The hyper-catabolic state is a devastating pathophysiological response to severe injury, infection or burns. Nandrolone decanoate (ND) is a potent anabolic steroid have many clinical indications, but not investigated in burn injuries yet. Patients and methods A prospective randomized control study included 40 burned patients who were treated in Burn unit from burn injuries ranged from 20 to 40%. Both groups are objectively assessed, clinically and laboratory during treatment period till full recovery from burns’ injury. Recall assessment of the drug safety after many years is achieved. Results ND showed highly significant results supporting its use in combating catabolic insults in burns patient. Both clinical findings and laboratory findings are correlated and highly support the use of ND in burns as new effective and safe long-lasting indication. Conclusion This study results showed preservation of lean body mass and protein partition, as well as the near normal nitrogen balance in burn patients. Study proposes that nandrolone decanoate could be used in safe and effective way to combat hypercatabolic impact in burn injury.

BACKGROUND In mild psoriasis, topical agents remain the mainstay of treatment. However, the available treatments are not satisfactory for a significant proportion of patients in many terms such as efficacy and safety. Because of these deficits, augmentation of therapeutic effect seems desirable. THIS STUDY AIMS To evaluate the efficacy of topical cyclosporine cream, delivered by fractional CO2 laser vs the efficacy of topical clobetasol cream for the treatment of mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. PATIENTS AND METHODS Twenty-two patients with chronic plaque psoriasis involving

Obesity is a chronic condition that affects millions globally; consequently, bariatric surgery is the key to this serious issue. Bariatric procedures are rapidly expanding in number and methods to address the recognized problems. So, it would make a sense for surgeons and patients if there is a more physiological bypass surgery technique in Morbid obesity. This study aims to evaluate the outcome proposed technique.The present study is a retrospective analysis on 256 participants subjected to the proposed bypass procedure from December 1999 to January 2017, the participants were followed up for an interval of 3years.The findings of the present study revealed a significant Excess Weight Loss (EWL). In addition, patients experienced decreased calcium, iron, vitamin B12, Hemoglobin, zinc, and Prothrombin Concentration. However, three to six months after surgery, they experienced a significant improvement until they reached normal levels without any supplement by the end of 12,18 months, with a three-year follow-up.This proposed Bypass Operation aims to adequate digestions as well as selective absorption without inducing any vital deficit. Most of study's population showed no elements inadequacies, although few percentages emerged during the interval of maximal weight reduction, and it were transient and minimal. No minerals or vitamins were needed.

Background Chronic venous leg ulcer reduces the patients' activities and their overall quality of life. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was previously investigated as promising less invasive management for leg ulcers. This study aims To re-assess the efficacy and safety of PRP in the management of chronic leg ulcers due to venous factors. Patients/methods RCT enrolled 80 patients who clinically presented with chronic venous leg ulcers. Forty patients were allocated randomly for the treatment with autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Intradermal and subdermal injection of PRP by 27guage syringe weekly, in all edges and in the granular floor of the ulcer for 4-6 sessions. Another 40 patients managed by conventional treatment by compression and dressing for the same period were allocated as Group B. Objective assessment achieved by the percentage of reduction of the size of the ulcer area, rate of healing, incidence of recurrence, and if side effects have been reported. Results PRP therapy showed better results and high p value significance when compared to conventional therapy. Conclusion This study shows that PRP is effective and significant in promoting the wound healing process in chronic leg venous ulcers. PRP is simple, safe, and has a short learning curve technique.

Although the toxicity/biocompatibility of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HAPNPs), a prospective nano-biomaterial, is extensively studied, its interaction on the reproductive system following exposure is less exploited. In the present study, male rats were exposed to HAPNPs (300 mg/kg BW) to determine its possible reproductive toxicity. Also, the protective effects of chitosan (CSNPs, 280 mg/kg BW) and/or curcumin (CurNPs, 15 mg/kg BW) nanoparticles against HAPNPs-induced reproductive toxicity were studied. Animals were orally gavage daily with respective doses for 45 consecutive days. The obtained results indicated that HAPNPs caused a significant decrease in sperm count, sperm motility, testosterone hormone, steroidogenic enzymes (17-ketosteroid reductase and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase), and antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase) in addition to total antioxidant capacity and reduced glutathione. LH and FSH, abnormal sperm, oxidative stress parameters (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), nitric oxide (NO), and 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)), p53, TNFα, and interleukin-6 were significantly increased. The DNA damage was also analyzed by assaying 8-OHdG level which is considered as an indicator of genotoxicity and also suppression of the gene expression of mtTFA, induction of UCP2. Similarly, the histopathological evaluation was also changed following exposure to HAPNPs. The antioxidant activity of CSNPs and CurNPs showed mitigating effect against reproductive deterioration induced by HAPNPs throughout improvements in semen characteristics, sex hormones, inflammatory factors, and antioxidant status. The present study concluded that HAPNPs induced reproductive toxicity and it is important to use nano-antioxidants CSNPs and CurNPs as protective agents.

Background Septoplasty is a crucial step during rhinoplasty to correct the nose function and nasal aesthetics. The idea is not investigated regarding the educational purposes. Objective of the study is to evaluate the efficiency of endoscopic septoplasty during full job rhinoplasty and to observe its educational benefit. Methods Twenty-seven patients who submitted for prospective study of endoscopic septorhinoplasty operation; the analysis involves 16 female patients and 11 males. Results Endoscopic septoplasty during rhinoplasty showed an efficient illumination and visualization, which improved the precision and has an educational benefit during the reform of the posterior septum, isolated septal spurs, anterior septum, and middle turbinate attachments. Conclusion The procedure allows a precise septal job with excellent visualization of the anterior and posterior septum. It also has an intraoperative educational benefit and helps to soothe the time down of patient's recovery.

Purpose: Latanoprost ophthalmic solution is highly effective as a therapeutic agent for glaucoma and is applied worldwide. However, harmful effects on the corneal surface have been reported regardi...

This Article is an Editor-in-Chief Lecture. It will help you to understand a lot of Knowledge about Academic writing and preparation of a scientific article to Al-Azhar International Medical Journal (AIMJ) or any other Journal worldwide. It describes the requirements of Academic writing in details. It provides so many of tips for perfect structuring of the Article, that would make a scientific work ready for primary acceptance by most of editors, if really followed up.

Background: Autologous fat transfer has been practiced and described as a promising method in facial rejuvenation. Many randomized and observational studies have been published with scanty of evidence came from review and meta-analysis. This study aims to evaluate the evidence-based practice regarding the efficacy and safety of autologous fat transfer in an updated meta-analysis study. Method: Systemic review and meta-analysis using (PRI SMA) statement was achieved. Literature search was performed in PubMed, PLOS and Cochrane library. Many of the search engines have been used including EKB platform to download the articles from SCOPUS and Clarivate databases, starting from 2017 to 2021. Results: Out of 132 articles only 6 articles were included in this study. Study included 255patients in total with an average follow-up only for 12 months. Total sessions for all patients in all studies were once for every patient. Analysis showed an overall longevity 68 %, and one study reported complication rate about 5 %. Three studies reported overall surgeon satisfaction and patient satisfaction were 89%, 81% respectively. Conclusion: Although this updated meta-analysis in the period from 2017 to 2021but still the evidence of autologous fat transfer efficacy regards longevity more than one year is still limited to have an evidence-based practice. Well-designed multicentric randomized clinical trials and big series cohort studies are strongly recommended to properly conclude about the efficacy, longevity, and satisfaction.

BACKGROUND Management of facial skin cancer and its complications is important research topics needing continuous update to improve the outcome. OBJECTIVE The study is to share our findings with surgeons and healthcare providers. The authors provide their efforts by pooling data from multiple institutions; as reporting surgical outcomes is significantly lacking and much needed in the Middle East and North Africa region in order to meaningfully improve quality of care. This study proposes an algorithm for management that could aid a surgical decision-making for reconstruction of defects after excision of facial skin cancer. METHODS Retrograde simple descriptive analysis study is conducted for multicenter data about management of facial skin cancer and its cosmetic outcome. The analysis involves 159 male patients and 95 females. RESULTS Nonmelanoma skin cancer was reported in 250 (98.4%) of 254 cases. Reconstructive procedures were complicated in 16 cases (~6.3% of the study). Skin cancer recurrence in head and neck has happened in five cases (~1.9% of the study). Flaps used survived without major complications; however, V-Y advancement flaps showed the best aesthetic outcome. CONCLUSION This study reports data in order to meaningfully improve the quality of care. Disease incidence, reconstructive complications, recurrences, and aesthetic outcome of facial skin cancer are included in the study. Based on the data pooling, the study proposes a simple treatment algorithm that could aid in surgical decision-making. V-Y advancement flaps showed the best aesthetic outcome.

In modular industrial construction, prefabricated modules are usually lifted with mobile cranes. Development of reliable heavy lift plans using conventional planning tools, however, remains a challenging and time-consuming task. This article presents an Auction-based Simulation for Industrial Crane Operations (ASICO)—a powerful and flexible auction protocol-based simulation model designed to facilitate heavy lift plan development. Employing this powerful approach enables lift planners to select the best types of cranes, to schedule multiple heavy lifts while satisfying system constraints, and to determine proper configurations, crane locations, and pick-points. Specifically, AISCO reads data from a comprehensive database to allocate cranes, with appropriate configurations and locations, to modules (known as agents). ASICO then holds a number of regular auctions (e.g., every working day), where agents bid for various combinations of resources (e.g., cranes, space). In this system, an auctioneer is designed to solve the Winner Determination Problem (WDP) based on combinatorial optimizations by maximizing the social welfare of the entire system. ASICO also provides suitable scheduling data for a 4D (3D plus time) animation tool to demonstrate the lifting process throughout the entire construction phase. Implementation of this system on a real case study was found to improve the cost, schedule, and safety of the project.

Purpose: To report three cases of acute sterile corneal melt after cataract surgery. Observations: Case 1 was a 21-year-old male presenting with a corneal perforation of his right eye at 10 days after cataract surgery. Case 2 was a 67-year-old male who developed a corneal melt in his left eye at 15 days after cataract surgery. Case 3 was a 70-year-old female with a corneal melt of her left eye at 7 days after cataract surgery. None of the cases exhibited any signs of infection. Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use, dry eye, systemic autoimmune diseases, and/or a combination of these were present in patients who developed corneal melt after cataract surgery. Conclusions and Importance: Corneal melt cases can occur early after cataract surgery, thereby leading to corneal thinning and perforation., American Journal of Ophthalmology Case Reports, 13, pp.62-65; 2019

In this study, we investigated the effects of commercially available multi-dose sodium hyaluronate 0.1% (HyaleinJapanese white male rabbits were divided into four groups. The corneas of each group exposed to one of the following solutions: sodium hyaluronate 0.1%, C12-BAC, C12, 14, 16-BAC Mixture, and Hank's Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) (as control), respectively. Corneal transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) changes after 60 s of exposure to the above solutions were measured in living rabbits. TER reflects the barrier function of the epithelium. In addition, scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the acute effects of the above solutions on the integrity of the corneal epithelium of four groups.There was no significant decrease in the corneal TER after exposure of the cornea to HyaleinThis study confirms that Hyalein

Background: patients with the lower 3rd leg defects are increasing in number especially among victims of road accidents .Due to anatomical features of this area nearly most cases required flap coverage. Aim of the work: the aim of this study was to help in selection of the appropriate option for coverage among available local perforator flaps and free microvascular flaps. Patients and methods: 30 patients with lower 3rd leg defect were included in this study and they were categorized into 2 groups. 15 patients underwent reconstruction by using local flaps (A) and 15 patients under went reconstruction using free micro-vascular flaps (B). Results: free flaps were more versatile than local flaps, but consumed more operative time and had higher morbidity Conclusion: small and moderately-sized lower 3rd leg soft tissue defects can be covered easily and safely by using locally available perforator flaps. Local flaps do not scarify any of the main arteries, consume less operative time, there was a specific like to like soft tissue replacement leading to a better cosmetic and reconstructive outcome. Free flaps have proven its versatility and reliability in coverage of significantly large and complex defects.

In Japan a basic preparatory ophthalmic examination is routinely performed for 3-year-old children. This study aimed to determine the value of incorporating a photoscreener into the examination and evaluate parents' satisfaction with the photoscreener examination.Prospective study.Children aged 42-47 months in Nagasaki City, Japan, underwent a visual acuity test by a parent at home and by automated vision screening using a photoscreener at their local municipal health center between October 2018 and March 2019. Subjects were children referred to Nagasaki University Hospital for examination after failing either test. Children previously diagnosed with strabismus and/or amblyopia were excluded. A questionnaire survey evaluated the level of satisfaction with the photoscreener-based screening by parents who attended these examinations at the local municipal health center.Of children who completed the two tests, 52 (failed visual acuity test, 3; failed photoscreener examination, 49) were referred for examination. Of the 49 photoscreener failures, 12 were diagnosed with amblyopia: unilateral amblyopia with anisometropic hyperopia in 10 (83.3%), and bilateral amblyopia with astigmatism and hyperopia in 2 (16.7%). The photoscreener detected all 12 cases of amblyopia, whereas the home-based visual acuity test detected only two cases. More than 80% of 1035 parents were satisfied with the photoscreener examination.Unilateral amblyopia with anisometropic hyperopia was easily overlooked with the home-based test but was detectable by photoscreener examination. The photoscreener proved to be an effective screening tool for amblyopia in children and was considered a satisfactory examination by a high proportion of parents.

Background: The in vitro culture system of C. parvum has been investigated using numerous cell lines that support the growth of different stages of the parasite which is less expensive and more convenient for the study of host-parasite interactions than in vivo models. Objective of the study: to evaluate in vitro models of C. parvum and to establish an in vitro culture system for further research studies. Material and Methods: Confluent HT-29 Human Colorectal Adenocarcinoma cell monolayers were infected with 4x105 viable C. parvum oocysts, suspended in 200 l cell culture medium (DMEM). Cells were then incubated for 2 hours at 37°C. Cell monolayers that grow on 13 mm glass coverslips were washed twice with PBS and fixed in methanol for 1 min, stained with 10% Giemsa at different periods (6, 24, 48 and 72 h) and then mounted on glass slides. The parasites were counted, and the obtained data were statistically analyzed. Results: It was found that the HT-29 cell line supports the in vitro cultivation of C. parvum. The maximum numbers of parasites were obtained by 6 h and 24 h post-infection. Only immature stages were observed in the cell line after 6 h of infection. However, there were many immature and mature asexual stages in the cell monolayer 24 and 48 post infection. The maximum numbers of parasites were counted in cell monolayer infected by 4x105 oocysts. Conclusion: It was concluded that the HT-29 cell line supports the in vitro cultivation of C. parvum protozoan parasite.

Background: Nostril base and Alar wings are forming the major part of the nasal vestibule. This study proposes an innovative technique for functional restoration of alar lining and nostril base by myomucosal oral flap. It also evaluates the functional and aesthetic results of this technique after reconstruction of the nostril and alar subunits. Patients and Methods: Case series study for the proposed technique. Study duration is one year, from start of 2018 till start of 2019. Each patient followed for 6 months. Study setting is a university-based plastic surgery practice. 12 Patients were complaining of unilateral nasal opening distortion due to scars. They included in consecutive sample. Proposed technique was operated on patients who underwent nostril base and Alar lining reconstruction. Objective morphological analysis is done for; the nasal width, mid-columella alar curvature distance, inter-axial angle and two nostril axis angles as well as the comparison of nasal pattern. Subjective analysis of patient's rating for breathing and aesthetic satisfaction level was reported. Results: Functional and aesthetic outcomes were achieved from excellent to good. Breathing from the reconstructed nasal opening returned to the normal pre-scaring status in all cases. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this article proposes a new innovative technique for functional reconstruction of Alar lining and nostril base by oral mucosal flap based on muscular pedicle. It could be a reliable, simple and straight forward technique.

Background. Distal digital replantation and revascularisation remains one of the demanding microsurgical procedures due to the difficulty of vascular anastomosis. Venous congestion is the most commonly encountered problem after replantation due to the difficulty of venous anastomosis in traumatic injuries. Heparin, among other drugs, is commonly used to facilitate venous drainage and prevent thrombosis. However, systemic heparin can be contraindicated in some patients. The senior author has experience of subcutaneous heparin injection for venous congestion in thirteen patients. Methods. An amount of 1 ml of calcium heparin (25,000 U) was mixed in 2.4 ml of normal saline making a solution that has 1000 U per 0.1 ml. 1000 U (0.1 ml) of the solution was injected directly into the congested replanted digits. This was repeated twice daily until venous congestion improved. Results. All the congested replanted digits survived without systemic side effects. There were no local side effects of the treatment. The PT and APTT have shown slight increase but they remained within the normal range. Haemoglobin levels have dropped slightly but no patients were at any risk of developing anaemia or needed blood transfusion. Conclusions. Subcutaneous heparin injections can salvage the replanted digits when venous congestion is a warning flag for replantation failure. It is safe and very efficient in patients where systemic heparin cannot be administered. However, this article shows the results in only thirteen patients which is a small number to show the efficacy, safety, and side effects.

Purpose To report a case of corneal erosion with pigments derived from a cosmetic contact lens (CCL). Methods A 29-year-old woman complained of foreign body sensation after wearing CCL. Slit-lamp examination of her left eye revealed corneal erosion with yellow pigment at its edges. The surface of the CCLs was examined using the rub-off test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). An elementary analysis using SEM with energy-dispersive x-ray (SEM-EDX) was also performed. Results On the back surface of the CCL, the pigments easily came off during the rub-off test. An SEM examination found exposed pigments with needle-like construction on the back surface. SEM-EDX revealed the presence of carbon, oxygen, iron, titanium, and chlorine in the pigments. Conclusion Direct contact between the bare pigments on a CCL and the corneal surface can cause corneal damage.

Acute bacterial conjunctival infections are common, and this study identified the conjunctival bacterial community in infectious conjunctivitis cases seen at the outpatient clinic of Khanh Hoa General Hospital in Nha Trang, Vietnam from October 2016 through December 2017. Conjunctival swabs were collected and tested using conventional culture, PCR, and 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. The study included 47 randomly selected patients. More than 98% of all DNA reads represented five bacterial phyla. Three of these phyla constituted 92% of all sequences (Firmicutes (35%), Actinobacteria (31%), and Proteobacteria (26%)). At the genus level, there were 12 common genera that constituted about 61% of all sequence reads. Seven of those genera were common (Streptococcus (10%), Cutibacterium (10%), Staphylococcus (7%), Nocardioides (7%), Corynebacterium 1 (5%), Anoxybacillus (5%), and Acinetobacter (5%)), which encompassed 49% of all reads. As for diversity analysis, there was no difference on PERMANOVA analysis (unweighted UniFrac) for sex (p = 0.087), chemosis (p = 0.064), and unclassified eyedrops (p = 0.431). There was a significant difference in cases with bilateral conjunctivitis (p = 0.017) and for using antibiotics (p = 0.020). Of the predominant phyla, Firmicutes had the highest abundance in bacterial conjunctivitis in this study. Pseudomonas as a resident commensal microbiota may have an important role in the prevention of infection., Microorganisms, 9(10), art. no. 2095; 2021

Thread-lifting rejuvenation procedures have evolved again, with the development of absorbable threads. Although they have gained popularity among plastic surgeons and dermatologists, very few articles have been written in literature about absorbable threads. This study aims to evaluate two years' outcome of thread lifting using absorbable barbed threads for facial rejuvenation.Prospective comparative stud both objectively and subjectively and follow-up assessment for 24 months.Thread lifting for face rejuvenation has significant long-lasting effects that include skin lifting from 3-10 mm and high degree of patients' satisfaction with less incidence rate of complications, about 4.8%. Augmented results are obtained when thread lifting is combined with other lifting and rejuvenation modalities.Significant facial rejuvenation is achieved by thread lifting and highly augmented results are observed when they are combined with Botox, fillers, and/or platelet rich plasma (PRP) rejuvenations.

Laser speckle flowgraphy (LSFG) can measure blood flow in the ocular fundus. We analyzed the relationship between retinal blood flow and panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) in diabetic retinopathy.This retrospective observational study examined the eyes of 35 patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) or non-PDR (NPDR). PRP was performed using a pattern scan laser. Using LSFG, blood flow was evaluated as the mean blur rate (MBR) or the relative flow volume (RFV). We also evaluated MBR in the vessels of the optic nerve head (MBR-V), RFV at the first retinal artery (RFV-A), and RFV at the first retinal vein (RFV-V) before bifurcation. Blood flows were measured prior to treatment initiation, during each PRP session, and after PRP.The total number of laser spots created was 4258 ± 461. Regression of neovascular activity at 6 months after PRP occurred in 29 (82.85%) eyes. MBR-V significantly decreased to 83.9 ± 16% (p = .0039), 79.3 ± 21% (p = .0001), and 73.5 ± 26% (p = .0001) after the first, second, and third PRP treatment sessions. MBR-V was also reduced to 75.0 ± 25% (p = .0001), 75.0 ± 25% (p = .0001), and 80.3 ± 22% (p = .0001) at 1, 3, and 6 months following PRP. During and at 6 months after the PRP treatments, RFV-A and RFV-V were also significantly reduced (p .01).During and after PRP treatments using pattern scan laser, retinal blood flow was reduced. Retinal blood flow may be an auxiliary measurement for effectively evaluating PRP or PDR.

To evaluate the possible risk factors for posterior chamber intraocular lens dislocation either in-the-bag (ITB) dislocation or out-of-the-bag (OOTB) dislocation. All subjects who sustained late intraocular lens dislocation from January 2011 until May 2014 and presented to the Nagasaki University Hospital were included in the study. This study is a retrospective evaluation of all cases of posterior chamber intraocular lens dislocation in this defined period. All cases had history of uncomplicated cataract surgery with implantation of posterior chamber intraocular lens. Patients with history of trauma (before cataract surgery) were excluded from the study. The main outcome measures of the study were evaluation of risk factors for dislocation of both groups and determination of the interval between cataract surgery and dislocation. Thirty-six eyes (69.23%) suffered ITB dislocation, and 16 eyes (30.77%) suffered OOTB dislocation. Intraocular lens dislocation was common in males (42 eyes = 80.77%) than females (10 eyes = 19.23%). Patients of ITB dislocation group were significantly older than OOTB dislocation group at the time of initial intraocular lens implantation and at the time of exchange surgery. The most prevalent risk factors in both groups were axial myopia in 18 eyes (34.61%), vitreoretinal surgery in 16 eyes (30.77%), and pseudoexfoliation in 13 eyes (25%) in all cases.

Due to their dynamic characteristics, hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HAP-NPs) have been employed numerous times in nanomedicine and in tissue engineering, particularly as diagnostic and therapeutic agents. However, there are outstanding findings from various studies that question whether these NPs are safe when they are used in the human body. Therefore, a more in-depth toxicity assessment should be carried out to give a clear answer regarding the fate of these particles. Here we aim to investigate the possible cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and inflammation induced by HAP-NPs, as well as predict the synergistic antioxidative effect of chitosan nanoparticles (CsNPs) and curcumin nanoparticles (CurNPs) in mitigating this pronounced toxicity. The present study was conducted on eighty Wistar male rats, divided into eight equal groups. The results showed that, at the molecular level, HAP-NPs significantly induced gene expression of tumor suppressor protein p53, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and also Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1) and Lipocalin-2 (LCN2). In addition, kidney biochemical parameters (total bilirubin, urea, uric acid and creatinine) increased, but albumin levels decreased in the group treated with HAP-NPs alone. Meanwhile, co-treatment with CsNPs and/or CurNPs with HAP-NPs showed an improvement in the activities of the kidney parameters and reduced inflammation. This study shows that the nephrotoxicity mechanism of HAP-NPs may involve various signaling pathways including alterations in biochemical parameters, gene expression of KIM-1 and LCN2 and disturbing the production of cytokines and p53. Furthermore, these insights showed that the combined effect of both CsNPs and CurNPs was more pronounced than the effect of each one on its own.

Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HAP-NPs) are an inorganic component of natural bone and are mainly used in the tissue engineering field due to their bioactivity, osteoconductivity, biocompatibility, non-inflammatory, and non-toxicity properties. However, the current toxicity data for HAP-NPs regarding human health are limited, and only a few results from basic studies have been published. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the beneficial role of chitosan nanoparticles (CsNPs) and curcumin nanoparticles (CurNPs) in alleviating nephrotoxicity induced by HAP-NPs in male rats. The results showed that HAP-NPs caused a reduction in antioxidant enzymes and induced lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide production and DNA oxidation. Moreover, HAP-NP administration was associated with intense histologic changes in kidney architecture and immunoreactivity to proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). However, the presence of CsNPs and/or CurNPs along with HAP-NPs reduced the levels of oxidative stress through improving the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Also, the rats administered the nanoparticles showed a moderate improvement in glomerular damage which matched that of the control group and showed mild positive reactions to PCNA–ir in glomeruli and renal tubules in the cortical and medullary portions. These novel insights confirm that the presence of chitosan and curcumin in nanoforms has powerful biological effects with enhanced bioactivity and bioavailability phenomena compared to their microphase counterparts. Also, they were able to ameliorate the nephrotoxicity induced by HAP-NPs.

Construction site layout changes dynamically depending on the progress of construction activities in ways that may constrain access routes and paths of mobile resources. Discrete event simulation is a useful tool for modeling time dependent activities and resource interactions but usually cannot depict spatial changes in a natural way. This paper describes a framework for integrating 3D visualization components with discrete event simulations to model the movement of mobile cranes on industrial construction projects and facilitate tempo-spatial planning of site layout. The paper focuses on the integration approach using distributed simulation standards and spatial analysis using a dedicated visualization component with pathfinding algorithm. The A* algorithm is used in conjunction with mesh generation mechanism for developing the proposed framework. The benefits of the proposed framework emerge from taking full advantage of the geometrical and special processing strengths of the visualization component through loose coupling with simulation components. The paper describes the main components of the framework and the two-way communication mechanism between them based on distributed simulation standards. It also presents a case example of a real world project to demonstrate the proposed framework and compare the outcome to a traditional solution that uses a probability distribution to model crane travel times.

To investigate the corneal toxicity of three combined antiglaucoma topical eyedrops using transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).Corneal TER changes after a 60-s exposure to latanoprost/timolol with 0.02% benzalkonium chloride (BAC), travoprost/timolol with polyquaternium-1, and dorzolamide/timolol with 0.005% BAC were measured in living rabbits. Corneal damage was also examined by SEM. Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS) was used as a control.There was a significant decrease in the corneal TER after exposure of the cornea to latanoprost/timolol with 0.02% BAC. Travoprost/timolol with polyquaternium-1 and dorzolamide/timolol with 0.005% BAC did not produce any significant decrease in the corneal TER as compared to HBSS control eyes. SEM revealed that superficial cells of corneas treated with latanoprost/timolol with 0.02% BAC were damaged and exhibited degenerated microvilli. Conversely, the superficial cells of corneas exposed to travoprost/timolol with polyquaternium-1 or dorzolamide/timolol with 0.005% BAC appeared normal and had normal microvilli under SEM examinations.The corneal toxicity of latanoprost/timolol with 0.02% BAC is greater than that of travoprost/timolol with polyquaternium-1 and dorzolamide/timolol with 0.005% BAC. Latanoprost/timolol contains 0.02% BAC, which may be responsible for the corneal toxicity.

Non-surgical nasal job has been practiced and published with doubtful concerns about efficiency and safety among physicians and aesthetic surgeons.of the work to share our experiences in non-surgical rhinoplasty using filler, Botox, and thread with presentation of aesthetic and complication outcome.Retrospective analysis of the aesthetic and complication outcomes and techniques for non-surgical remodeling rhinoplasty using fillers, Botox, and PDO absorbable threads in 332 cases.Non-surgical nasal remodeling provides temporary correction of small nasal deformities with achieved satisfactory aesthetic outcome and very low incidence of complications.Non-surgical nasal remodeling with injection precautions could work efficiently and safely in outpatient clinic with good temporary results up to 6 months.

Modular construction is a common practice for building industrial plants, particularly in the oil sands region of Alberta, Canada. Each module is a project with its own activities and const...

PurposeModelling construction resources and their dynamic interactions and constraints are a challenging problem. The allocation of these resources to competing activities is usually a function required in any scheduling process. Performing such allocation under a dynamic and diverse set of constraints adds more complexity to the problem. This study seeks a structured approach for representing resources and their allocation to different activities through the use of an agent‐oriented modelling framework.Design/methodology/approachA model is developed for a real case of assembly operations of industrial construction modules. The model follows a multi‐agent resource allocation structure and is implemented within an agent‐based simulation environment. The model is used to evaluate the effects of different optimization algorithms and modelling parameters on the generation of a construction schedule. Different experiments run through the model and their results are analyzed and discussed.FindingsThe model showed sensitivity only under large and continuous workloads. Overall the structured approach followed in developing the model provided a flexible medium for experimenting with different elements of the resource allocation problem.Research limitations/implicationsThe work is limited to the studied case and the results cannot be generalized beyond similar cases. The modelling approach used in the study provides a platform that can facilitate future research in construction resource allocation strategies.Originality/valueThe presented work demonstrates a new approach for modelling construction resource allocation problems that enables structured experimentation with alternative allocation algorithms. It also presents a novel way for modelling modular industrial construction operations.

Resource scheduling, or the allocation of resources over time, is a challenging problem in large-scale or multiple-project environments. Traditional network scheduling techniques are ineffective in modeling the dynamic nature and resource interactions of large or multiunit projects. This paper presents a simulation-based auction protocol (SBAP) to solve resource scheduling problems in large-scale construction projects. SBAP is a hybrid framework that integrates multi agent resource allocation (MARA) in a simulation environment. SBAP deploys a centralized resource allocation approach, referred to as an auction protocol, whereby agents bid on different combinations of resources at the start of a simulation cycle. Agents attempt to improve their individual welfare by acquiring a combination of resources; an auctioneer looks at the entire system and allocates resources to the agents using a combinatorial algorithm to maximize an overall objective function (e.g., maximizing the system’s revenue or minimizing t...

Construction simulation, a fast-growing field, is the science of developing and experimenting with computer-based representations of construction systems to understand their underlying behavior. This paper provides a history of construction simulation theory, explores the CYCLONE modeling methodology and its major subsequent developments, examines the development of the Simphony.NET and COSYE modeling environments and their functionality as more generic simulation platforms, and reviews effective strategies for applying simulation in construction. A construction simulation case study is presented that illustrates one successful approach for adopting simulation technology in the industry and outlines the benefits to industry of integrating these technologies. The paper provides an overview of long-term simulation initiatives leading to the next generation of computer modeling systems for construction, where simulation plays an integral role in a futuristic vision of automated project planning and control.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a simulation model capable of capturing the complex variables impacting the productivity of tunneling construction projects.Design/methodology/approach – Simulation modeling is used to construct high‐level models of construction supply networks in order to perform quantitative analysis, enabling planners to work out the embedded complexities of the system.Findings – This study presents a detailed simulation model of a real life tunnel construction project along with its supply chain of liner segments. Using this detailed model, a sensitivity analysis for the tunneling project shows the impact of chosen variables on the duration of a tunneling project; these results are used to verify the importance of considering the whole supply chain of a construction project in the planning stage.Practical implications – Effective quality control, consideration of the shortage of storage space, and anticipation of required lead time when placing the first order to achie...

This paper proposes a framework for simulating weather-sensitive construction projects that are executed under extreme weather conditions. It applies the framework steps to enable simulating and planning pipeline construction activities under severe cold weather conditions. The uncertainties caused by weather, such as extreme cold, heat, wind, or precipitation, can significantly affect a project’s schedule and produce significant deviations from the baseline schedule. The proposed framework structures a project in the way an engineer would approach it, setting out a breakdown of work activities to quantify weather effects and account for their impact on the project baseline. The proposed weather-sensitive construction simulation framework is employed to determine the effects of weather on the construction process of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe installation. The relevant simulation findings are reported to clarify the impact of extreme weather events on construction projects and to assist in project planning and decision support.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text., Background: Many recent studies have evaluated the clinical safety and efficacy of therapeutic lasers in laser lipolysis, but without detailed description of the safe and effective parameters. Purpose: To propose a method for adjusting safe and effective parameters for laser lipolysis. Methods: Detailed calculations of the safe and effective laser parameters for fat melting are proposed in the study. Amount of energy delivered in joules was calculated based on data from Havenith research. External skin and internal tissues temperatures during the procedure were kept in a recommended range and monitored for safety and efficacy. Prospective statistical study was designed on a series of 300 patients who underwent laser-assisted lipolysis and /or liposuction using 2 different machine manufacturers, delivering 1,064/1,320 nm. Results: All areas submitted to laser-assisted liposuction in this series have resulted in no clinical thermal burns injury to the skin. There was improvement in the bulk of fats, skin tightening, skin textures, and cellulites. Conclusion: This study is proposing a simple method for calculations of safe and effective laser lipolysis. Skin burn injury could be highly prevented by following up the proposed detailed basic parameters for laser lipolysis treatment.