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Abstract The prevalence of alcohol use disorder was found 75% higher among amphetamine dependent patients. Alcohol and amphetamine alone have nephrotoxicity and hepatoxicity. But, the degree of risk with coabuse of alcohol and amphetamine is unknown. The objective of this study was to assess toxic effects of amphetamine-alcohol co-abuse on the liver and kidney. he present study was a cross-sectional study conducted et al. Amal Hospital for Mental Health, Qassim region, KSA and include one hundred participants. Seventy-five participants were patients hospitalized for the treatment of abuse, and twenty-five participants, were healthy voluntaries, have no history of abuse. An experienced psychiatrist conducted patient interviews and assessed the patients using the DSM-5 criteria. The data from healthy participants were considered as a control. The abuse group was paired with the control group by age and lifestyle. Participants were split into: Group I: Control group (n = 25); Group II: Amphetamine (AMP) abuser group (n = 25); Group III: Alcohol abuser group (n = 25) and Group IV: Combined drug abuser group (AMP and alcohol) (n = 25). The socio-demographic data was collected. Complete medical examination, Body Mass Index and samples of blood and urine were collected from all participants for analytical tests; determination of alcohol and AMP levels, kidney functions and liver functions. The mean BMI values in groups II, III, and IV showed no significant change from the control group. The serum level of albumin and alkaline phosphatase showed significant decrease in all abuser groups. While, alanine transaminase (ALT), Aspartate transaminase (AST) and osteopontin levels showed significant increase in all abuser groups. Fasting blood sugar values showed significant increase in alcohol abusers. On the other hand, it revealed no significant change in AMP and combined groups. The mean values of urea showed no significant change in AMP and alcohol abusers and significant increase in combined drug abuser group. The serum creatinine and all abuser groups showed significant increase in Cystatin C. The alteration in the most of studied biochemical parameters were more than two folds in combined group compared with that of AMP or alcohol groups. Study reveals synergistic liver and kidney toxicity. Amphetamine-alcohol co-abuse significantly heightens kidney and liver toxicity.

Abstract The motivation behind this work is the preparation of polyurethane-magnesium aluminum layered double hydroxide (PU-LDH) nanocomposite and its application as a coating for steel protection. The coating was prepared with different doses of LDH, ranging from 0 to 2% of the coating weight. The effect of different concentrations on the mechanical, adhesion, and surface properties of PU coating is studied. Firstly, LDH was prepared via the coprecipitation process and then distributed in PU matrix. The nanocomposites were then crosslinked in the form of coating layers on steel. The preparation of the thermally stable crystalline LDH nanoparticles with 89 nm particle size was confirmed by FTIR, XRD, DLS, and TGA. SEM photos showed the dispersed and intercalated structure. The coating characteristics demonstrate that addition of LDH decreased the drying time and increased the dry film thickness of PU up to 1.5% due to the crosslinking between the large surface area nanofiller and polyurethane matrix. Furthermore, the prepared LDH nanofiller increased the adhesion strength, impact resistance, abrasion resistance, modulus, and flexibility of PU due to the strong polymeric network structure. The 2% nanocomposite coating shows poor properties due to the excess concentration and heterogeneous dispersion of nanoparticles within the PU polymer. The resistance to fire and some chemicals was supported by the thermally and physically stable LDH nanoclay. The former characterizations state that the proposed PU-LDH nanocomposite is an enhanced and applicable coating.

Background: Sudden death is defined as an unexpected death occurring with no observed antecedent clinical signs. Aim: The current study was performed to notice the tangible causes of sudden death among 51 out of 340 she-camels on a private farm in the eastern region of El Khafgi, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A retrospective cohort study design was conducted to investigate sudden death of camels through microscopic examination of fecal matter to identify the gastrointestinal parasites, analysis of whole blood thin films to diagnose blood parasites, blood culturing to recognize bacterial infection as Pasteurella multicida, and macroscopic postmortem examination to identify the gastrointestinal adult worm. The quantity and composition of feed were also analyzed. Afterward, a commercial multiscreen Ag-ELISA kit technique determined the toxins of Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens). Results: The results revealed that the incidence rate of sudden death was 15%. The sudden death occurred due to C. perfringens enterotoxins detected in the rumen, intestinal content, and intestinal wall. The enterotoxins and Alpha toxins were noticed, but the other toxin types, including Beta and Epsilon, could not be detected. All C. perfringens toxins were discovered to be negative in fecal matter. A significant association was reported between sudden death, she-camels age, and feeding habits as risk factors (P = 0.020 and 0.028, respectively). Risk factor assessment by relative risk (RR) revealed that the odds of RR of sudden death occurring among she-camelss aged over two years were higher than those less than two years (2.24 CI 95%, 1.093-4.591). Furthermore, the odds RR of sudden death occurring due to exposure of she-camels to a concentrated ratio of 18% were higher twice than those not exposed (2.346 CI 95%, 1.039-5.296). Conclusion: C. perfringens enterotoxaemia should be listed as a cause of sudden death in camels and the alteration in diet with 18% concentration feed changes the intestinal environment, which leads to C. perfringens proliferating and yielding potent toxins. More observations and interferences like regular immunization are recommended to reduce the disease and increase the awareness of the farmers of the importance of risk factors. [Open Vet J 2024; 14(8.000): 1942-1951]

Abstract Atopic dermatitis often begins in infancy and follows a chronic course of exacerbations and remissions. The etiology is complex and involves numerous factors that contribute to skin barrier defect and inflammation. In the Middle East, the burden of atopic dermatitis is understudied. Epidemiological data specific to the Gulf region are scarce but reveal a prevalence of up to about 40% in the United Arab Emirates. Region-specific factors, such as the climate and the frequency of consanguineous marriages, may affect atopic dermatitis incidence, prevalence, and evolution over time. A panel of experts predominantly from the United Arab Emirates analyzed the evidence from published guidelines, and considered expert guidance and local treatment practices to develop clear recommendations for the management of atopic dermatitis in the United Arab Emirates. They encourage a systematic approach for the diagnosis and treatment, using disease severity scores and quality-of-life measurement tools. Treatment recommendations take into consideration both established therapies and the approved systemic biologics dupilumab and tralokinumab, and the Janus kinase inhibitors baricitinib, upadacitinib, and abrocitinib.

Abstract The findings reveal that soil constituents significantly affect the corrosion process. Moisture content and pH promote the formation of corrosion products, while high chloride concentrations accelerate corrosion. Conversely, high organic matter content inhibits corrosion by limiting oxygen diffusion to the metal surface. The effectiveness of conservation treatments, particularly wax or oil-based coatings, varied with soil conditions, showing reduced efficacy in soils with high chloride concentrations. This study underscores the importance of understanding soil constituents for developing effective corrosion and conservation strategies for buried bronze statuettes. The results offer valuable insights for customizing preservation approaches based on soil types. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that mineralogical compositions in soil significantly influence corrosion processes, providing critical insights for effective preservation strategies. pH measurements indicated varying soil acidity and alkalinity levels, crucial in determining corrosion rates and mechanisms, offering essential data for targeted preservation strategies. Additionally, the identification of brochantite and antlerite through Micro-Raman spectroscopy suggests a link to sulfur pollutants from the decomposition of organic matter by sulfate-reducing bacteria, highlighting the potential environmental impact of microbial activity in the soil ecosystem.

Abstract The beekeeping industry plays a crucial role in local economies, contributing significantly to their growth. However, bee colonies often face the threat of American foulbrood (AFB), a dangerous disease caused by the Gram-positive bacterium Paenibacillus larvae (P. l.). While the antibiotic Tylosin has been suggested as a treatment, its bacterial resistance necessitates the search for more effective alternatives. This investigation focused on evaluating the potential of bee venom (BV) and silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) as antibacterial agents against AFB. In vitro treatments were conducted using isolated AFB bacterial samples, with various concentrations of BV and Ag NPs (average size: 25nm) applied individually and in combination. The treatments were administered under both light and dark conditions. The viability of the treatments was assessed by monitoring the lifespans of treated bees and evaluating the treatment's efficiency within bee populations. Promising results were obtained with the use of Ag NPs, which effectively inhibited the progression of AFB. Moreover, the combination of BV and Ag NPs, known as bee venom/silver nanocomposites (BV/Ag NCs), significantly extended the natural lifespan of bees from 27 to 40 days. Notably, oral administration of BV in varying concentrations (1.53, 3.12, and 6.25 mg/mL) through sugary syrup doubled the bees' lifespan compared to the control group. The study established a significant correlation between the concentration of each treatment and the extent of bacterial inhibition. BV/Ag NCs demonstrated 1.4 times greater bactericidal efficiency under photo-stimulation with visible light compared to darkness, suggesting that light exposure enhances the effectiveness of BV/Ag NCs. The combination of BV and Ag NPs demonstrated enhanced antibacterial efficacy and prolonged honeybee lifespan. These results offer insights that can contribute to the development of safer and more efficient antibacterial agents for maintaining honeybee health.

Background: Azathioprine is one of the earliest immunosuppressants prescriped for several autoimmune diseases. Yet there is a lack of research on the impact of azathioprine on pulp healing following pulp capping procedure. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of azathioprine on the healing ability of mechanically exposed dogs' dental pulps following direct pulp capping with Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), Bio-Aggregates (BA), and Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2). Methods: Four mongrel dogs were randomly assigned to two groups (2 dogs/30 teeth in each group): immunosuppressed (group I) and control (group II). Group I received azathioprine for two months before surgical treatments and until the dogs were euthanized. Fifteen class V buccal cavities were performed in each dog. Each group was randomly divided into three subgroups (10 teeth each) based on the pulp capping substance. The pulps in subgroups A, B, and C were immediately capped with MTA, BA, and Ca(OH)2, respectively. Inflammation and dentine bridge development were histopathologically evaluated and scored at one and two months. The data were statistically analyzed. Results: The immunosuppressed group exhibited statistically greater inflammatory cell count and decreased dentine bridge thickness, compared to the control group in all subgroups (P [Open Vet J 2024; 14(7.000): 1614-1624]

Abstract The drug efflux pump is a crucial mechanism implicated in resistance to multiple antimicrobials. Thymoquinone (TQ) has evidently demonstrated multiple activities, antibacterial being the most effective. Knowledge about TQ activity against multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is very scarce. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate TQ resistance modulation in ciprofloxacin (CIP) and doxycycline (DO) multidrug-resistant S. aureus. Forty-seven samples were collected from different sources, and S. aureus was isolated and identified. Then, S. aureus resistance profiles to antimicrobials, N. sativa essential oil, and TQ; the correlation between TQ-MIC readings and disc diffusion; cartwheel and ethidium bromide (EtBr) accumulation assays; and norA gene expression were all described within silico molecular docking for TQ interactions with norA efflux pump protein. TQ-MICs ranged from 5–320 µg/ml. TQ down-regulated norA gene expression, resulting in a drop in efflux pump activity of 77.5–90.6% in the examined strains, comparable to that observed with verapamil. Exposure of S. aureus strains to CIP and DO raises the initial basal efflux pumping expression to 34.2 and 22.9 times, respectively. This induced efflux pumping overexpression was substantially reduced by 97.7% when TQ was combined with CIP or DO. There was a significant reduction of MICs of CIP and DO MICs by 2–15 and 2–4 folds, respectively, after treatment with 0.5XMIC-TQ in resistance modulation assays. These results refer to TQ ligand inhibitory interactions with NorA protein in molecular docking. Interpretations of inhibition zone diameters (IZDs) of disc diffusion and TQ-MICs exhibit independence of MICs from IZDs, as indicated by invalid linear regression analysis. TQ significantly reduced efflux pumping S. aureus induced by CIP and DO, but further investigations are needed to improve TQ-pharmacokinetics to restore CIP and DO activity and suppress fluoroquinolone and doxycycline-resistant S. aureus selection in clinical and animal settings.

Abstract Background Microbial growth during plant tissue culture is a common problem that causes significant losses in the plant micro-propagation system. Most of these endophytic microbes have the ability to propagate through horizontal and vertical transmission. On the one hand, these microbes provide a rich source of several beneficial metabolites. Results The present study reports on the isolation of fungal species from different in vitro medicinal plants (i.e., Breynia disticha major, Breynia disticha, Duranta plumieri, Thymus vulgaris, Salvia officinalis, Rosmarinus officinalis, and Ocimum basilicum l) cultures. These species were tested for their indole acetic acid (IAA) production capability. The most effective species for IAA production was that isolated from Thymus vulgaris plant (11.16 µg/mL) followed by that isolated from sweet basil plant (8.78 µg/mL). On screening for maximum IAA productivity, medium, “MOS + tryptophan” was chosen that gave 18.02 μg/mL. The macroscopic, microscopic examination and the 18S rRNA sequence analysis indicated that the isolate that given code T4 was identified as Neopestalotiopsis aotearoa (T4). The production of IAA by N. aotearoa was statistically modeled using the Box-Behnken design and optimized for maximum level, reaching 63.13 µg/mL. Also, IAA extract was administered to sweet basil seeds in vitro to determine its effect on plant growth traits. All concentrations of IAA extract boosted germination parameters as compared to controls, and 100 ppm of IAA extract exhibited a significant growth promotion effect for all seed germination measurements. Conclusions The IAA produced from N. aotearoa (T4) demonstrated an essential role in the enhancement of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) growth, suggesting that it can be employed to promote the plant development while lowering the deleterious effect of using synthetic compounds in the environment.

Objectives: The objective is to compare the safety and efficacy of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and ultrasound-guided (US-guided) shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) for the treatment of radiolucent lower pole calculi of 1–2 cm. Materials and Methods: This prospective randomized study was performed at our tertiary care urology institute of Benha University Hospitals; cases were randomized either to undergo RIRS (Group A) or US-guided SWL with a triple focus system (Group B). The safety and effectiveness of both therapies were compared using new criteria for stone-free rate (SFR): Grade A (absolutely stone free), Grade B (≤2 mm fragments), and Grade C (>2 mm up to 4 mm fragments), fluoroscopy time, operative time, auxiliary procedures, retreatment, and complications. Results: Out of 100 patients, 92 were eligible for this study. RIRS had a higher SFR of 88.9% compared to SWL, 72.3% (P = 0.045). Furthermore, stone-free classification significantly differed between the studied groups (P < 0.001), with Grade A being significantly higher in Group A. Conversely, Grades B and C were lower in Group A. On the other hand, operative and fluoroscopy times were significantly reduced with SWL (P = 0.004 and < 0.001, respectively). While complications did not significantly differ between the two groups (P = 0.340), a significant distinction was observed in terms of the Clavien–Dindo classification. Conclusions: RIRS is an effective and safe option for treating radiolucent lower calyceal stones of ≤2 cm, with a greater SFR and lower need for auxiliary operations. However, Sono SWL is a cost-effective alternative that can achieve a comparable success rate after retreatment sessions.

Abstract Water quality in land-based fish production can be controlled through either instantaneous water exchange or costly wastewater treatment followed by recirculation. Agricultural-aquaculture integration is an excellent alternative technique for reducing nutrient discharge levels, boosting profitability, and converting fish culture wastewater into valuable products. The current study employed a solar energy system to power two separate IMTA-aquaponics systems (Nutrient Film Technique, NFT, and Floating Raft Systems, FRS) for the cultivation of Nile tilapia, African catfish, thin-lipped grey mullet, freshwater crayfish, freshwater mussels, and a variety of vegetables. Tilapia and catfish were fed exclusively on diets under the IMTA system. All wastewater from tilapia and catfish ponds, both dissolved and solid, flows sequentially to ponds containing other cultivated species. The water then flows through the IMTA system's terminal point to the NFT and FRS systems before returning to the tilapia and catfish ponds, allowing complete control of the nutrient flow throughout this entire circular system. Two 147-day production cycles were concluded. The results from the second production cycle are reported. Total biomass gain for aquatic species in the IMTA system was 736.46 kg, compared to 145.49 kg in the tilapia and 271.01 kg in the catfish monoculture systems. The current IMTA system had a cumulative feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 0.90, while the FCRs for tilapia and catfish were 1.28 and 1.42, respectively. Nile tilapia and catfish consumed 571.90 kg of feed containing 25.70 kg of nitrogen (N) and 9.70 kg of phosphorus (P), reflecting, and gaining 11.41 and 3.93 kg of dietary N and P, representing 44.40 and 40.46% dietary N and P retention, respectively. In the IMTA system, the addition of mullet and prawn as detrivores aquatic animals improves dietary N and P utilization efficiency to 59.06 and 51.19%, respectively, while the addition of mussels as herbivore animals improves dietary N and P utilization efficiency to 65.61 and 54.67%, respectively. Finally, using FRS and NFT as hydroponic systems increased dietary N and P efficiency to 83.51% N and 96.82% P, respectively. This study shows that the IMTA-Aquaponic system, as a bio-integrated food production system, can convert the majority of fish-fed residues into valuable products suitable for desert, rural, and urban areas in impoverished and developing countries.

Abstract This paper provides six metaheuristic algorithms, namely Fast Cuckoo Search (FCS), Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA), Dynamic control Cuckoo search (DCCS), Gradient-Based Optimizer (GBO), Northern Goshawk Optimization (NGO), Opposition Flow Direction Algorithm (OFDA) to efficiently solve the optimal power flow (OPF) issue. Under standard and conservative operating settings, the OPF problem is modeled utilizing a range of objectives, constraints, and formulations. Five case studies have been conducted using IEEE 30-bus and IEEE 118-bus standard test systems to evaluate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed algorithms. A performance evaluation procedure is suggested to compare the optimization techniques' strength and resilience. A fresh comparison methodology is created to compare the proposed methodologies with other well-known methodologies. Compared to previously reported optimization algorithms in the literature, the obtained results show the potential of GBO to solve various OPF problems efficiently.