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Kazım Kıratlı,1 Murat Aysin,2 Mukhtar Abdullahi Ali,1 Ahmed Mohamed Ali,1 Hakan Zeybek,3 Şükran Köse4 1Mogadishu Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Training and Research Hospital, Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Mogadishu, Somalia; 2Balikesir University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health, Balikesir, Turkey; 3Mogadishu Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Training and Research Hospital, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Mogadishu, Somalia; 4Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Izmir, TurkeyCorrespondence: Kazım Kıratlı, Mogadishu Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Training and Research Hospital, Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Mogadishu, Somalia, Tel +252611522947, Email drkazimkiratli@gmail.comIntroduction: Historically, antimicrobials have been used to treat microbial illnesses in humans and animals. But throughout this time, antibiotics that had been successful against particular microorganisms started to lose their effectiveness due to rising inappropriate use brought on by ignorance, negligent attitudes, and improper methods. Our goal in conducting this study was to ascertain the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of doctors with relation to the use of antibiotics in light of the growing global and Sub-Saharan African problem of antimicrobial resistance.Methods: In a tertiary hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia, a cross-sectional survey study was carried out to assess experts’ and research assistants’ knowledge, attitudes, behavior, awareness, and practices regarding the use of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance. A questionnaire consisting of 2 sections and 22 questions was applied to the participants on a voluntary basis.Results: Among the 202 doctors that participated in the study, 49 (24.3%) were specialists, and 153 (75.7%) were assistants. Prescriptions for one to ten antibiotic boxes per week on average were reported by 146 respondents (72.3%). Of the physicians, just 27 (13.4%) did not require assistance when prescribing an antibiotic. The most often accessed sources of support were experts in infectious diseases (43.1%) and national/international antimicrobial guidelines (32.2%). The top three factors contributing to antibiotic resistance in Somalia include misuse of antibiotics (61.4%), unnecessary prescriptions written by doctors (44.6%), and an absence of infectious disease specialists in most institutions (44.1%).Conclusion: As an alarming level of antimicrobial resistance has been observed globally in recent years, the results of our survey will help educate our doctors by gauging their perceptions, attitudes, and knowledge about rational antibiotic use in Sub-Saharan Africa. This will provide better patient outcomes.Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, Sub-Saharan Africa, microorganism, prescription, Infectious disease, knowledge

Mahmoud Ahmed Ali,1 Moustafa Adam El Taieb,1 Eisa Mohamed Hegazy,2 Hassan M Ibrahim,2 Alshimaa Abbas Mohamed,1 Mohamed Amer Ahmed Abdellatif,1 Nour Mohammed Ahmed,3 Ali Mohamed Younis1 1Dermatology, Venereology, and Andrology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, Egypt; 2Dermatology, Venereology, and Andrology Department, Faculty of Medicine South Valley University, Qena, Egypt; 3Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, EgyptCorrespondence: Mahmoud Ahmed Ali, Dermatology, Venereology, and Andrology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, 81528, Egypt, Tel +201002364902, Email dr.mahmoudali8051@gmail.comBackground: In the entire world, acne vulgaris (AV) is the most prevalent skin condition. Approximately 9.4% of people worldwide have acne vulgaris. This study compared the blood levels of chitinase 3-like protein 1 (YKL-40) in acne vulgaris patients before and after oral isotretinoin therapy.Patients and Methods: The design of the study was cross-sectional case-control. Forty patients with moderate to severe acne vulgaris and twenty healthy participants participated in this study. Using the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) score, patients with acne vulgaris were evaluated both before and after concluding their treatment. Using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), the serum levels of YKL-40 were measured before and after oral isotretinoin therapy in healthy controls and acne patients.Results: Patients with acne vulgaris had considerably greater serum levels of YKL-40 than healthy control subjects (p 0.001) did. After three months of oral isotretinoin medication, the GAGS score and blood levels of YKL-40 in acne vulgaris patients both significantly decreased.Conclusion: The conclusion of this study was that reducing the blood levels of YKL-40 and the GAGS score in patients with acne vulgaris who took oral isotretinoin for three months was a crucial strategy.Keywords: acne vulgaris, YKL-40, isotretinoin, GAGS

Reham Samir Hamida,1 Mohamed Abdelaal Ali,2 Fatima Tariq Sharif,3 Hana Sonbol,3 Mashael Mohammed Bin-Meferij3 1Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan; 2Plant Production Department, Arid Lands Cultivation Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-CITY) New Borg El-Arab, Alexandria, 21934, Egypt; 3Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Hana Sonbol, Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O.Box 84428, Email Hssonbol@pnu.edu.saPurpose: The biological synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) has become a new methodology for the eco-friendly production of NPs with high scalability and biocompatibility. Cyanobacteria are one of the most widespread microorganisms on Earth and have been proven to be successful biofactories for synthesizing NPs. It is challenging to discover new microalgae with the potential to synthesize NPs of small size with high stability.Methods: Nostoc muscorum Lukesova 2/91 was isolated, purified, and identified morphologically and genetically using microscopy and DNA sequencing. Volatile biomolecules in aqueous algal extracts were assessed using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS).Results: Data showed that the main biomolecules were fatty acids and their esters, followed by secondary metabolites. Algal extract was used to convert silver nitrate (AgNO3) into silver NPs under various optimized parameters. 1 mM of AgNO3, 1:1 (V/V ratio of algal extract to AgNO3), 25 °C, under light illumination, for 24 h, at pH 7.4 were the optimum conditions for NP production (Nos@AgNPs). Nos@AgNPs were characterized using UV-VIS spectroscopy, FTIR, TEM, SEM, EDx, mapping, and a Zetasizer. The wavelength of Nos@AgNPs was 401.4 nm and their shapes were cubic to oval, with an average diameter of 11.8 ± 0.5 nm. FTIR spectroscopy revealed that proteins/polysaccharides could be the main reductants, whereas these molecules and/or fatty acids could be stabilizers for NP synthesis. Nos@AgNPs (86.15%) was silver and had a hydrodynamic diameter of 10.7 nm with a potential charge of − 19.7 mV. Antiproliferative and antimicrobial activities of Nos@AgNPs were evaluated. Nos@AgNPs exhibited significant inhibitory activity against lung, colon, and breast cancer cells and considerable biocidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.Conclusion: N. muscorum Lukesova 2/91 is an excellent source for the biofabrication of small and stable AgNPs with potent inhibitory effects against cancer and bacterial cells.Keywords: green synthesis, algae, Nostoc sp., antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial

Ahmed Mohamed Ali,1 Ahmet Doğan,2 Mukhtar Abdullahi Ali,3 Abdısalam Ibrahım Aden4 1Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Mogadishu-Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia; 2Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University, Bolu, Turkey; 3Department of İnfectious Diseases at Mogadishu Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia; 4Department of Dermatology at Mogadishu-Somalia TurkeyRecep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Mogadishu, SomaliaCorrespondence: Ahmed Mohamed Ali, Tel +252615462742, Email Ahmedorey22@gmail.comAbstract: An uncommon variation of lupus erythematosus is lupus panniculitis. İt can exist on its own or in conjunction with discoid or systemic lupus erythematosus. Persistent, sensitive, and hard nodules that are localized on the face, arms, shoulders, breast, and buttocks are its defining features. Scarring, lipoatrophy, and ulceration are occasionally associated with the healing of lesions. We are reporting the first case of lupus erythematosus panniculitis from Somalia. A 60-year-old male patient visited our polyclinic with an upper back nodule and a left upper ulcerated lesion that had been present for four months.Keywords: lupus erythematosus panniculitis, scar, nodules, fine needle aspiration

Ahmed Mohamed Alı,1 Ahmet Doğan,1 Mukhtar Abdullahi Ali,1 Battal Selçuk Çakmak2 1Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Somalia-Mogadishu- Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia; 2Department of Urology, Somalia- Mogadishu- Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital, Mogadishu, SomaliaCorrespondence: Ahmet Doğan, Tel +9 537 484 5047, Email uzdrahmetdogan@gmail.comAbstract: Tuberculosis is especially common in African countries where HIV is common. Although pulmonary tuberculosis is generally seen, testicular tuberculosis can rarely be seen in young men. Especially in African countries, it is not possible to study acid-resistant bacilli, polymerase-chain reaction and culture due to financial impossibility. For this reason, history, physical examination, scrotal ultrasonography and fine needle biopsy help in diagnosis in suspected cases of testicular tuberculosis. Cure is possible with six months of treatment.Keywords: testicular tuberculosis, rare case, caseifying necrotizing granuloma

Abstract: This study aimed to highlight the aesthetics of syntactic deviation in the poetry collection "Wa Siraajan Muneeran" by Omar Jalaluddin Hazaa, one of the most prominent contemporary Arab poets associated with the Prophet's biography. Syntactic deviation is considered a significant stylistic phenomenon in modern criticism and has deep roots in Arabic rhetorical tradition. The study relied on analyzing poetic texts to reveal the primary role of deviation in engaging the audience and capturing their attention by creating surprises in the poetic context, encouraging readers to explore the dimensions of this phenomenon and reflect on its various impacts. The study concludes by emphasizing the importance of deviation as an artistic tool that deepens the poetic experience and enriches interaction with the text. Keywords: Displacement, Poetic image, Prophetic biography, Arabic rhetoric, Arabic poetry, Compositional level.

Abstract This paper describes a two-year high-fidelity dataset for an ultra-low energy office building and living laboratory called HouseZero ®. The building integrates multiple low-energy technologies, such as natural ventilation with automatic windows, ground source heat pump, and thermally activated building systems. The building’s performance is continuously monitored with an extensive sensor network. The dataset consists of breakdown energy end uses, photovoltaic (PV) production, zone-level indoor environment including indoor air temperature, CO2 concentration, and relative humidity, micro-climatical conditions, building façade temperature, and detailed system operations including zone-level BTU meter, valve status, slab temperature, window/skylight opening status, heat pump, and geothermal well operations. The data can be used to support data analytics of ultra-low-energy building operations, and data-driven modeling of low-energy building systems.

Background: A key challenge in steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP)-based brain-computer interface (BCI) systems is to effectively recognize frequencies within a short time window. To address this challenge, the specific characteristics of the data are needed to select the frequency recognition method. These characteristics include factors, such as the number of stimulation targets and the presence of harmonic frequencies, resulting in optimizing the performance and accuracy of SSVEP-based BCI systems.Objective: The current study aimed to examine the effect of data characteristics on frequency recognition accuracy.Material and Methods: In this analytical study, five commonly used frequency recognition methods were examined, used to various datasets containing different numbers of frequencies, including sub-data with and without frequency harmonics.Results: The increase in the number of frequencies in the Multivariate Linear Regression (MLR) method has led to a decrease in frequency recognition accuracy by 9%. Additionally, the presence of harmonic frequencies resulted in an 8% decrease in accuracy for the MLR method. Conclusion: Frequency recognition using the MLR method reduces the effect of the number of different frequencies and harmonics of the stimulation frequencies on the frequency recognition accuracy.

Abstract The popularity of mixed reality (MR) technologies, including virtual (VR) and augmented (AR) reality, have advanced many training and skill development applications. If successful, these technologies could be valuable for high-impact professional training, like medical operations or sports, where the physical resources could be limited or inaccessible. Despite MR’s potential, it is still unclear whether repeatedly performing a task in MR would affect performance in the same or related tasks in the physical environment. To investigate this issue, participants executed a series of visually-guided manual pointing movements in the physical world before and after spending one hour in VR or AR performing similar movements. Results showed that, due to the MR headsets’ intrinsic perceptual geometry, movements executed in VR were shorter and movements executed in AR were longer than the veridical Euclidean distance. Crucially, the sensorimotor bias in MR conditions also manifested in the subsequent post-test pointing task; participants transferring from VR initially undershoot whereas those from AR overshoot the target in the physical environment. These findings call for careful consideration of MR-based training because the exposure to MR may perturb the sensorimotor processes in the physical environment and negatively impact performance accuracy and transfer of training from MR to UR.

Abstract Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) residing in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are characterized by their pivotal roles in tumor progression, antitumor immunity, and TME remodeling. However, a thorough comparative characterization of tumor-TAM crosstalk across IDH-defined categories of glioma remains elusive, likely contributing to mixed outcomes in clinical trials. We delineated the phenotypic heterogeneity of TAMs across IDH-stratified gliomas. Notably, two TAM subsets with a mesenchymal phenotype were enriched in IDH-WT glioblastoma (GBM) and correlated with poorer patient survival and reduced response to anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI). We proposed SLAMF9 receptor as a potential therapeutic target. Inference of gene regulatory networks identified PPARG, ELK1, and MXI1 as master transcription factors of mesenchymal BMD-TAMs. Our analyses of reciprocal tumor-TAM interactions revealed distinct crosstalk in IDH-WT tumors, including ANXA1-FPR1/3, FN1-ITGAVB1, VEGFA-NRP1, and TNFSF12-TNFRSF12A with known contribution to immunosuppression, tumor proliferation, invasion and TAM recruitment. Spatially resolved transcriptomics further elucidated the architectural organization of highlighted communications. Furthermore, we demonstrated significant upregulation of ANXA1, FN1, NRP1, and TNFRSF12A genes in IDH-WT tumors using bulk RNA-seq and RT-qPCR. Longitudinal expression analysis of candidate genes revealed no difference between primary and recurrent tumors indicating that the interactive network of malignant states with TAMs does not drastically change upon recurrence. Collectively, our study offers insights into the unique cellular composition and communication of TAMs in glioma TME, revealing novel vulnerabilities for therapeutic interventions in IDH-WT GBM.

A wide variety of materials having at least one dimension between 1 and 100 nm make up the remarkable class of materials known as nanomaterials (NMs). By rationally designing nanoparticles, very large surface areas may be attained. It is possible to create NMs with exceptional mechanical, optical, electrical, and magnetic properties that differ significantly from their traditional materials. A brief history of NMs and how they have been used to spur advancements in nanotechnology development is covered in this overview. Throughout the review, the special properties of NMs are emphasized. There is a discussion of several techniques for synthesizing NMs, including top-down and bottom-up strategies. The characteristics, uses, and methods of manufacture of nanoparticles are succinctly and simply summarized in this study.

Abstract In arid climates, conventional water resources are severely limited and stressed in the face of rapid population growth and future climate change. So, it is necessary to find alternative non-conventional water resources for use in drought situations. Additionally, the non-conventional water resources in these areas are not sufficient to meet future water demand. Therefore, non-conventional water resources can be adopted as a strategic reserve to bridge the gap between water supply and demand in case of emergency and drought events. These resources might include rainwater harvesting, treated wastewater, and desalinated seawater. Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) can be applied to store these resources in the hydrogeological system using Geo information System—Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (GIS-MCDA) approach for determining the suitable MAR location for storage. North-west Kingdom of Saudi Arabia area was chosen for this study because it is extremely arid, has high potential for social and economic development, and it has newly constructed non-conventional water infrastructures distributed throughout the area including water desalination plants, Tertiary Sewage Effluent (TSE) waste water plants, and flash-flood storage dams. To identify the suitable MAR site location and structure, different data related to aquifer hydrogeology, surface hydrology, hydrometeorology, and water quality were applied. Then, GIS-MCDA holistic approach was applied with aid of ordered weighting average (OWA) technique. Finally, two maps were created to show the MAR location and structure type. Potential map indicates that ~ 18.85% of the area is suitable for MAR installations. About 0.17% of the total area exhibited very high potential, where infiltration ponds can be applied, 1.86% had high potential for construction of check dams with diversion channels, and 16.82% had moderate potential for installation of recharge wells. Additionally, 56 MAR structures were proposed and a map showing their locations has been created. Thus, results indicated that the study area is promising for MAR installation. These maps could aid the decision makers to propose a sustainable development plan for the future water resources of the area.

Introduction: Aggression in children and teenagers can lead to psychological and social harm to themselves and those around them. Given this, the present study aimed to examine the effect of child-centered mindfulness therapy on reducing social anxiety and bullying among aggressive male students.Methods: The research method employed in this study was quasi-experimental, with a pre-test, post-test, control group design, and a two-month follow-up period. The statistical population comprised aggressive students aged 9-12 years from the second elementary school in Isfahan City during the academic year of 2022-2023. A total of 36 aggressive male students were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups (18 students in each group). The experimental group underwent child-centered mindfulness therapy for ten weeks, with each session lasting 75 minutes. The Aggression Questionnaire (AQ), Social Anxiety Questionnaire (SAQ), and Bullying Questionnaire (BQ) were used in this research. The data were analyzed using mixed ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test via SPSS23 statistical software.Results: The results indicated that child-centered mindfulness therapy significantly affected social anxiety (F=54.37; eta=0.61; p

Abstract One of the important problems in the environment is heavy metal pollution, and fluorescence is one of the best methods for their detection due to its sensitivity, selectivity, and relatively rapid and easy operation. In this study, 1,8-diaminonaphthalene functionalized super-stable mesoporous silica (DAN-LUS-1) was synthesized and used as a fluorescence probe to identify Hg2+ and Fe3+ in food samples. The TGA and FT-IR spectra illustrated that 1,8-diaminonaphthalene was grafted into LUS-1. XRD patterns verified that the LUS-1 and functionalized mesoporous silica have a hexagonal symmetrical array of nano-channels. SEM images showed that the rod-like morphology of LUS-1 was preserved in DAN-LUS-1. Also, surface area and pore diameter decreased from 824 m2 g⁻1 and 3.61 nm for the pure LUS-1 to 748 m2 g⁻1 and 3.43 nm for the DAN-LUS-1, as determined by N₂ adsorption–desorption isotherms. This reduction demonstrated that 1,8-diaminonaphthalene immobilized into the pore of LUS-1. The DAN-LUS-1 fluorescence properties as a chemical sensor were studied with a 340/407 nm excitation/emission wavelength that was quenched by Hg2+ and Fe3+ ions. Hg2+ and Fe3+ were quantified using the fluorescence response in the working range 8.25–13.79 × 10–6 and 3.84–10.71 × 10–6 mol/L, with detection limits of 8.5 × 10–8 M and 1.3 × 10–7 M, respectively. Hg2+ and Fe3+ were measured in vetiver grass and spinach. Since the Fe3+ quenching can move in the opposite direction with sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) as a hiding compound for Fe3+, consequently, the circuit logic system was established with Fe3+, Hg2+, and SHMP as inputs and the fluorescent quench as the output.

Alyaa S Abdel Halim,1 Mohamed AM Ali,2,1 Fawad Inam,3,4 Abdulrahman M Alhalwan,5 Walid M Daoush5,6 1Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt; 2Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11623, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 3Department of Engineering and Computing, School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering, University of East London, London, UK; 4Executive Principal Office, Oxford Business College, Oxford, OX1 2EP, UK; 5Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, 11623, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; 6Department of Production Technology, Faculty of Technology and Education, Helwan University, Cairo, 11281, EgyptCorrespondence: Walid M Daoush, Email wmdaoush@imamu.edu.saBackground: Prior studies on magnetite (Fe3O4) NPs and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) cytotoxic effects against acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are inconclusive rather than definitive.Purpose: Investigation of the effects of Gum Arabic (GA)-stabilized/destabilized Fe3O4 NPs and CNTs, alone or in combination, on AML cell proliferation.Methods: Hybrid NPs were synthesized, characterized, and assessed for their cytotoxicity against Kasumi-1, HL-60, and THP-1 in comparison to normal primary bone marrow CD34+ cells. The molecular pathways of nanostructures’ cytotoxicity were also investigated.Results: The Fe3O4 NPs were effectively synthesized and attached to the surface of the CNTs, resulting in the formation of a novel hybrid through their interaction with the GA colloidal solution in an aqueous media. Although the evaluated nanostructured nanoparticles had significant growth suppression ability against the leukemia cell lines, with IC50 values ranging from 42.437 to 189.842 μg/mL, they exhibited comparatively modest toxicity towards normal hematopoietic cells (IC50: 113.529‒162.656 μg/mL). The incorporation of Fe3O4 NPs with CNTs in a hybrid nanocomposite significantly improved their effectiveness against leukemia cells, with the extent of improvement varying depending on the specific cell type. The nanostructured particles were stabilized by GA, which enhances their ability to inhibit cell proliferation in a manner that depends on the specific cell type. Also, nanoparticles exhibit cytotoxicity due to their capacity to stimulate the production of intracellular ROS, halt the cell cycle at the G1 phase, and induce apoptosis. This is supported by the activation of p53, BAX, cytochrome C, and caspase-3, which are triggered by ROS. The nanostructures lead to an increase in the expression of genes encoding proteins related to oxidative stress (SIRT1, FOXO3, NFE2L2, and MAP3K5) and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKN1A and CDKN1B) in response to ROS.Conclusion: We provide an effective Fe3O4 NPs/CNTs nano-hybrid composite that induces apoptosis and has strong anti-leukemic capabilities. This hybrid nanocomposite is promising for in vivo testing and validation. Keywords: acute myeloid leukemia, anti-leukemic properties, carbon nanotubes, iron oxide nanoparticles, oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species

Introduction. The rapid spread of African swine fever in the Kaliningrad region makes it necessary to use the methods of molecular epidemiology to determine the dynamics and direction of ASF spread in this region of Russia. The aim of the study was to determine single nucleotide polymorphisms within molecular markers K145R, O174L and MGF 505-5R of ASFVs isolated in Kaliningrad region and to study the circulating of the pathogen in European countries by subgenotyping and spatio-temporal clustering analysis. Materials and methods. Blood samples from living domestic pigs and organs from dead domestic pigs and wild boars, collected in the Kaliningrad region between 2017 and 2022 were used. Virus isolation was carried out in porcine bone-marrow primary cell culture. Amplicons of genome markers were amplified by PCR with electrophoretic detection and subsequent extraction of fragments from agarose gel. Sequencing was performed using the Sanger method. Results. The circulation of two genetic clusters of ASFV isolates on the territory of the Kaliningrad has been established: epidemic (K145R-III, MGF 505-5R-II, O174L-I – 94.3% of the studied isolates) and sporadic (K145R-II, MGF 505-5R-II, O174L-I – 5.7%). Conclusion. The broaden molecular genetic surveillance of ASFV isolates based on sequencing of genome markers is necessary in the countries of the Eurasian continent to perform a more detailed analysis of ASF spread between countries and within regions.

Purpose: Road traffic accidents pose a global challenge with substantial human and economic costs. Iran experiences a high incidence of road traffic injuries, leading to a significant burden on society. This study aims to predict the future burden of road traffic injuries in Iran until 2030, providing valuable insights for policy-making and interventions to improve road safety and reduce the associated human and economic costs. Methods: This analytical study utilized time series models, specifically autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and artificial neural networks (ANNs), to predict the burden of road traffic accidents by analyzing past data to identify patterns and trends in Iran until 2030. The required data related to prevalence, death, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rates were collected from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation database and analyzed using R software and relevant modeling and statistical analysis packages. Results: Both prediction models, ARIMA and ANNs indicate that the prevalence rates (per 100,000) of all road traffic injuries, except for motorcyclist road injuries which have an almost flat trend, remaining at around 430, increase by 2030. Based on estimations of both models, the rates of death and DALYs due to motor vehicle and pedestrian road traffic injuries decrease. For motor vehicle road injuries, estimated trends decrease to approximately 520 DALYs and 10 deaths. Also, for pedestrian road injuries these rates reached approximately 300 DALYs and 6 deaths, according to the models. For cyclists and other road traffic injuries, the predicted DALY rates by the ANN model increase to almost 50 and 8, while predictions conducted by the ARIMA model show a static trend, remaining at 40 and approximately 6.5. Moreover, these rates for the prediction of death rate by the ANN model increased to 0.6 and 0.1, while predictions conducted by the ARIMA model show a static trend, remaining at 0.43 and 0.07. According to the ANN model, the predicted rates of DALY and death for motorcyclists decrease to 100 and approximately 2.7, respectively. On the other hand, predictions made by the ARIMA model show a static trend, with rates remaining at 200 and approximately 3.2, respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of road traffic injuries is predicted to increase, while the death and DALY rates of road traffic injuries show different patterns. Effective intervention programs and safety measures are necessary to prevent and reduce road traffic accidents. Different interventions should be designed and implemented specifically for different groups of pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and motor vehicle drivers.

With the continuous increase of rapid urbanization and population growth, sustainable urban land-use planning is becoming a more complex and challenging task for urban planners and decision-makers. Multi-objective land-use allocation can be regarded as a complex spatial optimization problem that aims to achieve the possible trade-offs among multiple and conflicting objectives. This paper proposes an improved Non-dominated Sorting Biogeography-Based Optimization (NSBBO) algorithm for solving the multi-objective land-use allocation problem, in which maximum accessibility, maximum compactness, and maximum spatial integration were formulated as spatial objectives; and space syntax analysis was used to analyze the potential movement patterns in the new urban planning area of the city of Kigali, Rwanda. Efficient Non-dominated Sorting (ENS) algorithm and crossover operator were integrated into classical NSBBO to improve the quality of non-dominated solutions, and local search ability, and to accelerate the convergence speed of the algorithm. The results showed that the proposed NSBBO exhibited good optimal solutions with a high hypervolume index compared to the classical NSBBO. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm could generate optimal land use scenarios according to the preferred objectives, thus having the potential to support the decision-making of urban planners and stockholders in revising and updating the existing detailed master plan of land use.

Background:The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between inflammatory markers, liver enzymes, lung involvement severity, and mortality in 841 COVID-19 patients admitted to Imam Reza Hospital affiliated to the Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.Methods:The study included demographic information, physical and clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, computed tomography (CT) scan scores, and final outcomes. Results:The mean age of the patients was 58.23±16.44 years, and 39.2% were female. The most common underlying disease was hypertension (51.3%), and the most frequent symptom at presentation was shortness of breath (87.1%). The mortality rate was 33.8%. The results showed a significant direct correlation between CRP levels and LDH levels (r=0.129, p

This study investigates the attitudes and concerns of the Australian public toward connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs), and the factors influencing their willingness to adopt this technology. Through a comprehensive survey, a diverse group of respondents provided valuable insights toward various CAV scenarios such as riding in a vehicle with no driver, self-driving public transport, self-driving taxis, and heavy vehicles without drivers. The results highlight the significant impact of safety concerns about automated vehicles on individuals’ attitudes across all scenarios. Higher levels of concern were associated with more negative attitudes, and a strong correlation between concerns and opposition underlines the necessity of addressing these apprehensions to build public trust and promote CAV adoption. Interestingly, nearly 70% of respondents felt uncomfortable driving next to a CAV, but they displayed more confidence in adopting automated public transport in the near future. Additionally, around 40% of participants indicated a strong willingness to purchase a CAV, primarily driven by the desire to reduce their carbon footprint and safety considerations. Notably, respondents with health conditions or disability exhibited heightened interest (almost double those without health conditions) in CAV technology. Gender differences emerged in attitudes and preferences toward CAVs, with women expressing a greater level of concern and perceiving higher barriers to CAV deployment. This emphasizes the importance of employing targeted approaches to address the specific concerns of different demographics. The study also underscores the role of trust in technology as a significant barrier to CAV deployment, ranking high among respondents’ concerns. To overcome these challenges and facilitate successful CAV deployment, various strategies are suggested, including live demonstrations, dedicated routes for automated public transport, adoption incentives, and addressing liability concerns. The findings from this study offer valuable insights for government agencies, vehicle manufacturers, and stakeholders in promoting the successful implementation of CAVs. By understanding societal acceptance and addressing concerns, decision-makers can devise effective interventions and policies to ensure the safe and widespread adoption of CAVs in Australia. Moreover, vehicle manufacturers can leverage these results to consider design aspects that align with passenger preferences, thereby facilitating the broader acceptance and adoption of CAVs in the future. Finally, this research provides a significant contribution to the understanding of public perception and acceptance of CAVs in the Australian context. By guiding decision-making and informing strategies, the study lays the foundation for a safer and more effective integration of CAVs into the country’s transportation landscape.

Abstract Background Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a malignancy Often resistant to common chemotherapy regimens (Cytarabine (Ara-c) + Daunorubicin (DNR)), is accompanied by frequent relapses. Many factors are involved in causing chemoresistance. Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) are two of the most well-known genes, reported to be overexpressed in AML and promote resistance against chemotherapy according to several studies. The main chemotherapy agent used for AML treatment is Ara-c. We hypothesized that simultaneous targeting of HO-1 and HIF-1α could sensitize AML cells to Ara-c. Method In this study, we used our recently developed, Trans-Activator of Transcription (TAT) - Chitosan-Carboxymethyl Dextran (CCMD) - Poly Ethylene Glycol (PEG) - Nanoparticles (NPs), to deliver Ara-c along with siRNA molecules against the HO-1 and HIF-1α genes to AML primary cells (ex vivo) and cell lines including THP-1, KG-1, and HL-60 (in vitro). Subsequently, the effect of the single or combinational treatment on the growth, proliferation, apoptosis, and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) formation was evaluated. Results The designed NPs had a high potential in transfecting cells with siRNAs and drug. The results demonstrated that treatment of cells with Ara-c elevated the generation of ROS in the cells while decreasing the proliferation potential. Following the silencing of HO-1, the rate of apoptosis and ROS generation in response to Ara-c increased significantly. While proliferation and growth inhibition were considerably evident in HIF-1α-siRNA-transfected-AML cells compared to cells treated with free Ara-c. We found that the co-inhibition of genes could further sensitize AML cells to Ara-c treatment. Conclusions As far as we are aware, this study is the first to simultaneously inhibit the HO-1 and HIF-1α genes in AML using NPs. It can be concluded that HO-1 causes chemoresistance by protecting cells from ROS damage. Whereas, HIF-1α mostly exerts prolific and direct anti-apoptotic effects. These findings imply that simultaneous inhibition of HO-1 and HIF-1α can overcome Ara-c resistance and help improve the prognosis of AML patients.

Abstract Background This research presents a novel methodology for synthesizing 3D multi-contrast MRI images utilizing the 3D Dual-CycleGAN architecture. The performance of the model is evaluated on different MRI sequences, including T1-weighted (T1W), T1-weighted contrast-enhanced (T1c), T2-weighted (T2W), and FLAIR sequences. Results Our approach demonstrates proficient learning capabilities in transforming T1W images into target modalities. The proposed framework encompasses a combination of different loss functions including voxel-wise, gradient difference, perceptual, and structural similarity losses. These loss components, along with adversarial and dual cycle-consistency losses, contribute significantly to realistic and accurate syntheses. Evaluation metrics including MAE, PMAE, RMSE, PCC, PSNR, and SSIM are employed to assess the fidelity of synthesized images compared to their ground truth counterparts. Empirical results indicate the effectiveness of the 3D Dual-CycleGAN model in generating T1c images from T1W inputs with minimal average discrepancies (MAE of 2.8 ± 2.61) and strong similarity (SSIM of 0.82 ± 0.28). Furthermore, the synthesis of T2W and FLAIR images yields promising outcomes, demonstrating acceptable average discrepancies (MAE of 3.87 ± 3.32 for T2W and 3.82 ± 3.32 for FLAIR) and reasonable similarities (SSIM of 0.82 ± 0.28 for T2W and 0.80 ± 0.29 for FLAIR) relative to the original images. Conclusions These findings underscore the efficacy of the 3D Dual-CycleGAN model in generating high-fidelity images, with significant implications for diverse applications in the field of medical imaging.

There is a paradigm shift occurring in organizations towards sustainable production through cleaner production strategies. This cleaner production concept has been proven to be cost-effective, result-oriented, environment-savvy and provides the organizations a cutting edge over their counterparts. However, there is a lack of awareness about cleaner production practices in Iraq while the current study analyzed one of the most important factories in Iraq for sugar production to understand the factors required for successful application of cleaner production strategy and the challenges to be expected. In this study, the researchers followed an exploratory research approach. For this study, a questionnaire was designed, validated and distributed randomly among 700 potential respondents working in various departments of the organization under study. Out of the total responses, 482 responses were considered and SEM-PLS analysis was conducted. The cleaner production strategies were applied through nine dimensions and the relationship between the performance of the factory and sustainable supply chain was found to be prominent. With a few limitations such as the choice of a single factory, weak relationship between the variables identified from hypothesis testing, the study is a first-of-its-kind in this domain, especially in dealing with sugar refineries. Based on the outcomes, policy recommendations were made to the decision makers and the government. It can be concluded that the application of modern technologies and effective resource management can help in achieving the goal of the study.

Mediastinal malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT) is an exceedingly rare and aggressive neoplasm, particularly uncommon in infants. We present the case of a previously healthy 7-month-old male infant with mediastinal MRT. The patient initially presented with left eyelid ptosis and was otherwise asymptomatic. Initial investigations, including brain MRI, yielded unremarkable results, and the infant was discharged with vitamin B supplements. However, he was readmitted a week later with prolonged fever, poor feeding, diarrhea, and respiratory distress. Despite an initial diagnosis of bronchiolitis/viral respiratory tract infection, the patient's condition rapidly deteriorated. Subsequent evaluation revealed mediastinal MRT as the underlying cause. This case underscores the diagnostic challenges associated with mediastinal MRT in infants and highlights the importance of considering rare neoplastic etiologies in atypical clinical presentations.

Internal erosion is a common reason for dam failure, which is caused by soil subsidence and the formation of sinkholes. This phenomenon typically occurs in internally unstable soils. The dam is located in Neyshabour City and is built on a deep alluvial foundation with gap-graded and concave gradation soils. This study aims to investigate the potential for soil suffusion and the impact of compaction and surcharge on internal erosion. Initially, Data was collected after the dam impounding, index tests were conducted on soil samples. Subsequently, three methods were used to assess the probability of suffusion based on the particle size distribution and experimental criteria. Two methods indicated soil was internally unstable, while one method indicated stability. To study the influence of compaction. Soil samples were tested at different densities under four water head conditions. The results indicated that the soil has the potential for suffusion and is internally unstable. Furthermore, the study found that compaction reduced soil erosion, with the amount of washed fine particles decreasing from 4.5% at 70% relative density to 0.37% at 85% density. Moreover, increasing compaction from 70% to 85% resulted in a deformation decrease from 13.3% to 3.33%.

Introduction: Given the importance of empathy in caring for patients, this study investigated the level of empathy and its associated factors among medical residents at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences (AJUMS). Electronic education is a type of educational program that stems from the impact of technology, utilized to facilitate the learning process. Its purpose is to use this educational technology and its effects on the learning process, and the present research seeks the main factors affecting electronic education. Method: The method of this research is qualitative and synthesis research, the statistical population, numerous types of research that have been conducted in domestic and foreign articles in the period(1389-1402 SH) and (2010-2023 AD), and analyzed the 6-step model of Roberts' research synthesis was used and in the data reliability check from the provided framework, four criteria; believability, transferability, reliability, and confirmability were used. Results: The findings in this research showed that the effective dimensions in electronic education include technology-oriented, need-oriented, learning-oriented, communication-oriented, program-oriented, obstacle-oriented, motivation-oriented, and development-oriented dimensions, respectively. Conclusion: In this study, we found that given that e-education is used in all sciences, this research is a suitable model for learners.

Studying the influences of the debris settled by the flood upstream of the bridge pier on the scour is important. In the present study, experimental tests were performed as four models including the bridge pier, the bridge pier with buried debris, the bridge pier with the free debris, and the bridge pier with free debris and the bed sill with the downstream gap equal to 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 times of pier diameter. The results showed that buried debris increased the maximum length of the scour hole (ls), and the maximum width of the scour hole (ws) by about 50, and 180% respectively in comparison with the alone pier. It resulted that buried debris has a more increased effect than free debris. Free debris at low submergence ratios reduces ls by up to 27%, and in high submergence ratios increases it by up to 37%. Also, free debris increases ws in all submergence ratios, which is by up to 127% for the critical case compared to the case without debris. At all distances, the bed sill reduces ls and ws, and the best performance for reducing ls and ws is when it is attached to the bridge pier. HIGHLIGHTS Predicting length and width of the scour hole.; Effect of debris blockage on pier scour was evaluated.; Utilizing bed sill for protecting pier with debris blockage.; Experimental approach was suggested for scour hole of bridge pier.;

The restive Bangsamoro minority's struggle for rights is part of the enduring Muslim South - Christian North political conflict in the Philippines. The Philippine government's efforts to negotiate a peace agreement with the Muslim minority have hit deadlocks and mismatches between the goals of the two parties. Specifically, this study used content analysis to examine the Philippine government's strategy during the Rodrigo Duterte era in realizing peace for this protracted conflict with the Bangsamoro minority group. The results showed that Rodrigo Duterte as achieved peace in the Bangsamoro through mediation and negotiation, tools used by the previous government. In addition, Duterte's commitment became more significant by granting regional autonomy rights to Bangsamoro.The critical element enabler of Duterte's strategy was the dual-track negotiations.

Ikan kembung lelaki (Rastrelliger kanagurta) memiliki nilai ekonomis penting bagi nelayan. Tekanan eksploitasi yang tinggi memengaruhi keberadaan stok dan keseimbangan ikan tersebut di alam. Efektivitas pengelolaan perikanan perlu dilakukan, diantaranya melalui kajian struktur stok. Kajian struktur stok dengan analisis genetik dapat menunjukkan status genetik stok dan aliran gen pada setiap stok dalam suatu populasi. Informasi ini dapat digunakan sebagai dasar pengelolaan sumberdaya perikanan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis keragaman dan struktur genetik, serta struktur stok ikan kembung lelaki di WPP-NRI 711, 572, dan 573 menggunakan pendekatan molekuler. Isolasi dan ekstraksi DNA menghasilkan 20 DNA total per-lokasi (enam lokasi), dan diamplifikasi dengan metode PCR. Terdapat 109 dari 120 sampel hasil PCR yang dilanjutkan ke tahap RFLP. Hasil dari proses pemotongan band tunggal oleh enzim restriksi (RFLP) diidentifikasi menggunakan program Popgene32. Enzim yang mampu menunjukkan polimorfisme yaitu AluI dan HaeIII. Stok ikan kembung lelaki di WPP-NRI 711, 572, dan 573 memiliki kedekatan secara genetik, sehingga mengindikasikan sebagai unit stok tunggal. Namun, jarak genetik yang visualisasikan dengan dendrogram menunjukkan stok membentuk dua clade yang terpisah. Dalam pengelolaannya lebih baik menjadi unit manajemen terpisah untuk kepentingan statistik.

Abstract Atoms and their different arrangements into molecules are nature’s building blocks. In a regime of strong coupling, matter hybridizes with light to modify physical and chemical properties, hence creating new building blocks that can be used for avant-garde technologies. However, this regime relies on the strong confinement of the optical field, which is technically challenging to achieve, especially at terahertz frequencies in the far-infrared region. Here we demonstrate several schemes of electromagnetic field confinement aimed at facilitating the collective coupling of a localized terahertz photonic mode to molecular vibrations. We observe an enhanced vacuum Rabi splitting of 200 GHz from a hybrid cavity architecture consisting of a plasmonic metasurface, coupled to glucose, and interfaced with a planar mirror. This enhanced light-matter interaction is found to emerge from the modified intracavity field of the cavity, leading to an enhanced zero-point electric field amplitude. Our study provides key insight into the design of polaritonic platforms with organic molecules to harvest the unique properties of hybrid light-matter states.

Abstract Importance Large-scale estimates of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) are warranted for adequate prevention and treatment. However, systematic approaches to ascertain rates of BPD are lacking. Objective To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the prevalence of BPD in very low birth weight (≤ 1,500 g) or very low gestational age (

Abstract Aim Customer discovery, an entrepreneurial and iterative process to understand the context and needs of potential adoption agencies, may be an innovative strategy to improve broader dissemination of evidence-based interventions. This paper describes the customer discovery process for the Building Healthy Families (BHF) Online Training Resources and Program Package (BHF Resource Package) to support rural community adoption of an evidence-based, family healthy weight program. Methods The customer discovery process was completed as part of a SPeeding Research-tested INTerventions (SPRINT) training supported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Customer discovery interviews (n=47) were conducted with people that could be potential resource users, economic buyers, and BHF adoption influencers to capture multiple contextual and needs-based factors related to adopting new evidence-based interventions. Qualitative analyses were completed in an iterative fashion as each interview was completed. Results The BHF Resource Package was designed to be accessible to a variety of implementation organizations. However, due to different resources being available in different rural communities, customer discovery interviews suggested that focusing on rural health departments may be a consistent setting for intervention adoption. We found that local health departments prioritize childhood obesity but lacked the training and resources necessary to implement effective programming. Several intervention funding approaches were also identified including (1) program grants from local and national foundations, (2) healthcare community benefit initiatives, and (3) regional employer groups. Payment plans recommended in the customer discovery interviews included a mix of licensing and technical support fees for BHF delivery organizations, potential insurance reimbursement, and family fees based on ability to pay. Marketing a range of BHF non-weight related outcomes was also recommended during the customer discovery process to increase the likelihood of BHF scale-up and sustainability. Conclusions Engaging in customer discovery provided practical directions for the potential adoption, implementation, and sustainability of the BHF Resource Package. However, the inconsistent finding that health departments are both the ideal implementation organization, but also see childhood obesity treatment as a clinical service, is concerning.

Abstract Uveal cancer (UM) offers a complex molecular landscape characterized by substantial heterogeneity, both on the genetic and epigenetic levels. This heterogeneity plays a critical position in shaping the behavior and response to therapy for this uncommon ocular malignancy. Targeted treatments with gene-specific therapeutic molecules may prove useful in overcoming radiation resistance, however, the diverse molecular makeups of UM call for a patient-specific approach in therapy procedures. We need to understand the intricate molecular landscape of UM to develop targeted treatments customized to each patient's specific genetic mutations. One of the promising approaches is using liquid biopsies, such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), for detecting and monitoring the disease at the early stages. These non-invasive methods can help us identify the most effective treatment strategies for each patient. Single-cellular is a brand-new analysis platform that gives treasured insights into diagnosis, prognosis, and remedy. The incorporation of this data with known clinical and genomics information will give a better understanding of the complicated molecular mechanisms that UM diseases exploit. In this review, we focused on the heterogeneity and molecular panorama of UM, and to achieve this goal, the authors conducted an exhaustive literature evaluation spanning 1998 to 2023, using keywords like "uveal melanoma, “heterogeneity”. “Targeted therapies”," "CTCs," and "single-cellular analysis".