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A wind turbine system (WTS) is a highly coupled and nonlinear system where the output power depends upon highly uncertain wind speed. Therefore, the quality of produced power becomes a challenging problem for researchers. Direct Vector Control (DVC) is a powerful and widely utilized power control strategy to deal with winds that vary rapidly and randomly. As a result, this article employed the newly developed Social Spider Optimization (SSO) technique to optimize the design parameters of Fractional-Order Fuzzy Proportional-Integral with Derivative (FOFPID) regulator to maintain the output power of the studied DFIG-based WTS at the rated value under dynamic wind conditions. The suggested FOFPID controller integrates the capabilities of the Fuzzy intelligent regulator and the Fractional-Order controller, enhancing DFIG current control while allowing independent control of active and reactive power. The approach is incorporated within the DVC strategy of the DFIG's rotor-side converter (RSC), replacing the conventional Proportional-Integral (PI) regulator in the internal current loops. Extensive performance evaluations are conducted under various operating conditions, including active power reference changes, parameter uncertainties, and rapid wind speed variations. Comparative analyses with SSO-optimized PID and Fuzzy regulators show that the FOFPID regulator performs better in terms of maximum overshoot, extreme undershoot, settling time, Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), and Weighted Total Harmonic Distortion (WTHD). The suggested FOFPID regulator also displays stronger robustness against parameters mismatch and weather change than other regulator architectures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bagega community is an artisanal mining community with a history of Pb poisoning. The community is served by a small lake as an important source of water for cattle watering, irrigation, washing, and fishing among other uses. The concentration of Cd, Cr, and Pb in soil and plants at the bank, surface water, sediment, and fish of the lake were analysed using Agilent 4210 MP-AES machine after microwave digestion using the Advanced Microwave Digestion System model (Ethos easy). The concentrations of Pb and Cr in water from Bagega Lake were found to be above the WHO acceptable limits. This presents a health risk to humans and other animals that utilize directly or indirectly utilize the water in the lake. Catfish (Clarias anguillaris) and Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) had higher Pb and Cr concentrations in the gills than in the liver and h muscle (flesh). The concentrations of Cr, Cd and Pb of soils in the bank and sediment of Bagega Lake were below the WHO acceptable limits. A total of thirteen (13) plant species belonging to seven (7) families were identified to be dominant around the Bagega Lake during the time of study and they all show the potential of bioaccumulation of Cr and Pb based on their BCF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of serum level of Interleukin 6(IL-6) and Interleukin 17 (IL-17) in liver transplantation outcome for living recipients, Analyze the relation between the gene polymorphism and the occurrence of rejection after liver transplantation and Study the relation between the gene polymorphism and the occurrence of different infectious complications. The study was conducted in March 2023 and included 60 healthy volunteers from the National Liver Institute (NLI) blood bank at Menoufia University and 120 live donation liver recipient patients at NLI. During one month of liver transplantation, the cytokine levels (IL-17, IL-6 proteins, IL-6 G-174C, and IL-17 A rs2275913 gene polymorphism) and CD4 levels for 60 patients of 120 live donation liver recipient patients whom early reject transplanted tissue and the same parameters were measured after 6 months follow up for non-reject group. The main finding of this study was that the post-transplant rejection group and the post-transplant non-rejection and control groups differed significantly in the genotype frequency (CC, CG, and GG) or alleles of IL-6 G-174C (p = 0.011). On the other hand IL-17A rs2275913 gene polymorphism and its alleles (p = 0.71) showed no statistically significant difference. We also observed that serum IL-17 levels, with 100% specificity and 100% sensitivity threshold, will be more sensitive and specific than serum IL-6 and CD4 count in differentiating post-transplant rejection from non-rejection patients. The results showed that there was no significant relationship between the genotypes and serum levels of interleukins and the type and degree of rejection. Proinflammatory cytokines might be useful indicators for distinguishing and early identifying unfavorable outcomes after transplantation, allowing for prompt and effective treatment intervention. To evaluate these findings, prospective clinical trials are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Thioguanine (TG), azathioprine (AZA), and mercaptopurine (MP) are thiopurine prodrugs commonly used to treat diseases, such as leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). 6-thioguanine nucleotides (6-TGNs) have been commonly used for monitoring treatment. High levels of 6-TGNs in red blood cells (RBCs) have been associated with leukopenia, the cutoff levels that predict this side effect remain uncertain. Thiopurines are metabolized and incorporated into leukocyte DNA. Measuring levels of DNA-incorporated thioguanine (DNA-TG) may be a more suitable method for predicting clinical response and toxicities such as leukopenia. Unfortunately, most methodologies to assay 6-TGNs are unable to identify the impact of NUDT15 variants, effecting mostly ethnic populations (e.g., Chinese, Indian, Malay, Japanese, and Hispanics). DNA-TG tackles this problem by directly measuring thioguanine in the DNA, which can be influenced by both TPMT and NUDT15 variants. While RBC 6-TGN concentrations have traditionally been used to optimize thiopurine therapy due to their ease and affordability of measurement, recent developments in liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) techniques have made measuring DNA-TG concentrations in lymphocytes accurate, reproducible, and affordable. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the current evidence of DNA-TG levels as marker for thiopurine therapy, especially with regards to NUDT15 variants. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed on the current evidence for DNA-TG as a marker for monitoring thiopurine therapy, including methods for measurement and the illustrative relationship between DNA-TG and various gene variants (such as TPMT, NUDT15, ITPA, NT5C2, and MRP4). PubMed and Embase were systematically searched up to April 2024 for published studies, using the keyword "DNA-TG" with MeSH terms and synonyms. The electronic search strategy was augmented by a manual examination of references cited in articles, recent reviews, editorials, and meta-analyses. A meta-analysis was performed using R studio 4.1.3. to investigate the difference between the coefficients (Fisher's z-transformed correlation coefficient) of DNA-TG and 6-TGNs levels. A meta-analysis was performed using RevMan version 5.4 to investigate the difference in DNA-TG levels between patients with or without leukopenia using randomized effect size model. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottowa quality assessment scale. Results: In this systematic review, 21 studies were included that measured DNA-TG levels in white blood cells for either patients with ALL (n = 16) or IBD (n = 5). In our meta-analysis, the overall mean difference between patients with leukopenia (ALL + IBD) versus no leukopenia was 134.15 fmol TG/µg DNA [95% confidence interval (CI) (83.78–184.35), P < 0.00001; heterogeneity chi squared of 5.62, I2 of 47%]. There was a significant difference in DNA-TG levels for patients with IBD with and without leukopenia [161.76 fmol TG/µg DNA; 95% CI (126.23–197.29), P < 0.00001; heterogeneity chi squared of 0.20, I2 of 0%]. No significant difference was found in DNA-TG level between patients with ALL with or without leukopenia (57.71 fmol TG/µg DNA [95% CI (− 22.93 to 138.35), P < 0.80]). DNA-TG monitoring was found to be a promising method for predicting relapse rates in patients with ALL, and DNA-TG levels are likely a better predictor for leukopenia in patients with IBD than RBC 6-TGNs levels. DNA-TG levels have been shown to correlate with various gene variants (TPMT, NUDT15, ITPA, and MRP4) in various studies, points to its potential as a more informative marker for guiding thiopurine therapy across diverse genetic backgrounds. Conclusions: This systematic review strongly supports the further investigation of DNA-TG as a marker for monitoring thiopurine therapy. Its correlation with treatment outcomes, such as relapse-free survival in ALL and the risk of leukopenia in IBD, underscores its role in enhancing personalized treatment approaches. DNA-TG effectively identifies NUDT15 variants and predicts late leukopenia in patients with IBD, regardless of their NUDT15 variant status. The recommended threshold for late leukopenia prediction in patients with IBD with DNA-TG is suggested to be between 320 and 340 fmol/µg DNA. More clinical research on DNA-TG implementation is mandatory to improve patient care and to improve inclusivity in thiopurine treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six lanthanide complexes with substituted fenamic acid ligands {[La(L1)3].2H2O (C1), [La(L2)3].2H2O (C2), [Ce(L1)3] (C3), [Ce(L2)3].2H2O (C4), [Pr(L1)3].3H2O (C5) and [Eu(L2)3] (C6); HL1 = 2-(4-chlorophenylamino)benzoic acid and HL2 = 2-(4-methoxyphenylamino)benzoic acid} were isolated and characterized by elemental CHN microanalyses, DMF solution electrical conductivities and spectral (FTIR and UV–Visible) data. These analyses assigned the monoanionic character of the ligands and their bidentate chelation mode through the carboxylate group oxygen atoms. In addition, the complexes dissolve in dichloromethane, dimethylformamide and dimethyl sulfoxide, and are nonelectrolytes. Thermo-analytical techniques (TG/DTA) analyzed the complexes in the air and revealed that all water contained in them is lattice-based (uncoordinated), while complexes C3 and C6 are anhydrous. Moreover, all complexes, during heating up to 700 °C, decomposed to the respective oxides (Ln2O3). The complexes were tested for potential activity against human MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and the results uncovered low cytotoxic effect with high IC50 doses, comparing to paclitaxel, on these cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document discusses a study conducted in Sudan to assess the susceptibility of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes to different insecticides and to detect the presence of a specific genetic mutation associated with insecticide resistance. The study found that mosquitoes in Port Sudan and Kassala were susceptible to bendiocarb, malathion, and permethrin, but highly resistant to DDT. The presence of the F1534C kdr mutation, which is associated with resistance to DDT and pyrethroids, was detected in mosquitoes exposed to DDT. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding insecticide resistance to improve vector control strategies and prevent the spread of arboviral diseases. [Extracted from the article]

This research investigated the feasibility of employing organic acids, like citric acid, produced by Aspergillus nidulans MT355567 in a bioleaching process to recover uranium (U) from a low-grade rock sample. The optimal conditions for fungal growth and maximum citric acid (CA) synthesis across three distinct media were determined. The maximum citric acid concentration was produced on medium made from wheat bran (83%) and tea waste (77%). An investigation was carried out to see how citric acid and, by consequence, uranium bioleaching affinity, were affected by varying carbon sources, nitrogen sources, pH, temperature, incubation period, ore particle size, and the solid–liquid ratio. At 25 °C and a pH of 5.0, media containing 100 g/L of sucrose as a carbon source and peptone as a nitrogen source made the highest yield of citric acid and U bioleaching. Higher U bioleaching was achieved with ore particles 0.075 mm at a ratio of 2 g/L after only 30 min of contact with the fungal filtrate. Iron interference has a negative impact on uranium extraction. Interestingly, none of the conditions applied to enhance CA synthesis and U-bioleaching caused iron (Fe) dissolution. Based on these findings, it appears that bioleaching using A. nidulans MT355567 metabolic products is a promising economic and ecofriendly technology for extracting uranium from low-grade ore that might be adopted on a pilot scale. summarizing the experimental workflow for bioleaching of uranium from low-grade ore using citric acid produced by Aspergillus nidulans. The process involved optimizing A. nidulans growth and citric acid biosynthesis, evaluating factors influencing bioleaching activity of the acid metabolite solutions, and finally applying the optimized conditions to bioleach uranium from the ore sample. The schematic illustrates the key steps and the optimal condition for Aspergillus nidulans growth medium preparation using agricultural wastes, downstream application of metabolite synthesized for uranium bioleaching [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper conducts an extensive literature review to examine the applications of Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology in rehabilitation and medical diagnostics. The paper aims to address the requirements for enhanced accessibility, usability, and accuracy of the utilized BCI approaches. Methods: This paper applies the synthetic approach to selecting the relevant research sources. It investigates the novel algorithms and techniques developed for the accurate decoding of cognitive states. The paper searched most of the popular databases such as Springer Link, IEE Explore, Science Direct, CM Digital Library, and Google Scholar. 500 papers were collected, and 91 papers were deeply investigated based on the topic of interest. The search terms used to collect the research articles related to "Brain- Computer Interface" include healthcare and BCI, IoT and BCI, and medical BCI. Results: This review relinquished significant insights into BCI technology's applications in rehabilitation diagnostics. The analysis also highlighted the importance of EEG, fMRI, and NIRS technologies in rehabilitation. In addition, the paper identifies the novel techniques and methods that produce efficient and accurate decoding of cognitive states and address the integral challenges and potential prospects. Conclusions: This extensive review concludes that BCI technology has potential promise for rehabilitation. It shows that BCI technology has the potential to enhance traditional rehabilitation methods, especially in stroke recovery and spinal cord injury. Therefore, the paper shows that emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) have a great impact on the future of BCI technologies and applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable, scalable and efficient porous adsorbent for removal of Alizarin Red dye from aqueous solution has been developed. Chicken feathers as undesirable bio-waste was recycled via one pot carbonization step to porous carbon. Then, its surface was smartly functionalized with thin layer of polypyrrole via environmentally friendly vapor phase polymerization method. This creates a new and smart porous adsorbent for efficient removal of anionic Alizarin Red dye from aqueous solution. Hence, the obtained adsorbent has positive surface centers and superior porous structure compared to unmodified porous carbon. The developed adsorbent achieved specific surface area and total pore volume of 856 m2 g−1 and 0.56 cm3 g−1 compared to 208 m2 g−1 and 0.23 cm3 g−1 for unmodified carbon, respectively. The smart porous adsorbent achieved excellent removal efficiency of Alizarin Red dye from aqueous solution of 97% compared to 41% for unmodified carbon and achieving maximum uptake capacity of 157 mg g−1. The impact of adsorption factors of pH, adsorbent dose, initial concentration of dye, temperature and contact time was studied. The adsorption kinetic parameters of the adsorption of dye on adsorbent surface were studied and isotherm of the reaction was fitted well to the Langmuir model. Additionally, the thermodynamic parameters of free energy, enthalpy and entropy of adsorption were studied and confirm the adsorption reaction is of endothermic behavior. Moreover, the adsorption mechanism of dye on developed adsorbent surface and reusability of adsorbent were studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More focus has recently been placed on enhancing the strength, elastic modulus, coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), wear and corrosion resistance, and other qualities of aluminum (Al) alloys by varying the quantity of ceramics added for a range of industrial uses. In this regard, Al-4.2-Cu-1.6Mg matrix nanocomposites reinforced with nano-ZrO2 particles have been created using the powder metallurgy approach. The microstructure and particle size distributions of the produced powders were analyzed using a diffraction particle size analyzer, XRD, TEM, and SEM. To achieve good sinterability, the powders were compacted and sintered in argon. The sintered nanocomposites' mechanical, elastic, and physicochemical characteristics were measured. Additionally, the behavior of corrosion, wear, and thermal expansion were examined. The results showed a decrease in the particle sizes of the Al-Cu-Mg alloy by adding ZrO2 nanoparticles up to 45.8 nm for the composite containing 16 wt.% ZrO2. By increasing the sintering temperature to 570 °C, the densification of nanocomposites was enhanced. Also, the coefficient of thermal expansion and wear rate remarkably decreased by about 28 and 37.5% by adding 16 wt.% ZrO2. Moreover, microhardness yield, strength, and Young's modulus were enhanced to 161, 145, and 64%, respectively, after adding 16 wt.% ZrO2. In addition, increasing the exposure time was responsible for decreasing the corrosion rate for the same sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Libya has a wide range of temperatures and topographies, making it a promising place to use wind and solar energy. This research evaluated many technologies available in the global market, including wind energy, concentrated solar power (CSP), and photovoltaic (PV) solar, with the goal of localizing the renewable energy business. The aim was to optimize the advantages of employing locally accessible renewable resources while guaranteeing their suitability for the diverse climatic circumstances found throughout the nation. Twelve carefully chosen locations in Libya were used to assess the performance of 67 PV solar modules, 47 inverters, five different types of CPS, and 17 wind turbines using the System Advisor Model (SAM) dynamic simulation tool. The simulations employed 15-minute time series of climate data from the SolarGis platform for a 13-year timeframe (January 1, 2007–June 30, 2020). The standard used to determine which technology was best suited for each site was the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE). The findings showed that solar and wind energy (PV and CSP) could significantly meet the examined areas' demand for electrical energy. In contrast to wind energy, which had an LCOE ranging from 1.5 to 5.9 ¢/kWh, PV solar technology had an LCOE between 5.2 and 6.4 ¢/kWh. On the other hand, systems utilizing concentrated solar energy showed comparatively higher levels of life cycle costs; the heliostat field had the lowest, at 8.0 ¢/kWh. The research findings offer significant perspectives to engineers, planners, and decision-makers, enabling well-informed choices on the advancement and funding of renewable energy initiatives in Libya. The analysis concludes that wind energy is the most economically advantageous investment choice in the Libyan energy market, in contrast to the industry's predominate concentration on PV solar systems. Environmentally speaking, building a 1000 MW renewable power plant with a 40% capacity factor will reduce CO2 emissions by 3.82 million tons, saving $286.5 million in carbon taxes annually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract that encompasses two major conditions: Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Historically, IBD has been primarily reported in western countries, but over the past decades, its prevalence is rapidly increasing, especially in lower and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as India and China and also in Sub-Saharan Africa. The prevalence of IBD in LMICs has been the subject of growing concern due to the impact of access to public healthcare and the burden it places on healthcare resources. The classical thiopurines face significant challenges due to cessation of therapy in approximately half of patients within one year due to side effects or ineffectiveness. In this article, we highlight innovating thiopurine treatment for IBD patients in downregulating side effects and improving efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel MnO2@EDTA-Ag nanocoral reef was constructed via a simplified redox reaction followed by EDTA and Ag nanoparticles impregnation to capture hazardous copper (II) from wastewater. A comprehensive characterization of the synthesized materials was conducted. The morphology of MnO2@EDTA-Ag in the form of a nanocoral reef was constructed of two-dimensional nanoplatelets and nanorod-like nanostructures. The optimal adsorption conditions proposed by the Plackett–Burman design (PBD) that would provide a removal % of 99.95 were pH 5.5, a contact time of 32.0 min, a Cu(II) concentration of 11.2 mg L−1, an adsorbent dose of 0.05 g, and a temperature of 40.3 °C. The loading of Ag nanoparticles onto MnO2@EDTA improved the adsorption capability of MnO2@EDTA-Ag. Additionally, the recyclability of MnO2@EDTA-Ag nanocoral reef was maintained at 80% after three adsorption–desorption cycles, and there was no significant change in the XRD analysis before and after the recycling process, implying its stability. It was found that nanocoral reef-assisted EDTA formed a chelation/complexation reaction between COO− groups and C–N bonds of EDTA with Cu(II) ions. In addition, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis proved the synergistic effect of the electrostatic interaction and chelation/complexation was responsible for the removal mechanism of Cu(II). Also, the results demonstrated no significant variation in MnO2@EDTA-Ag removal efficiency for all the tested real water samples, revealing its efficacy in wastewater treatment. Therefore, the current study suggests that MnO2@EDTA-Ag has substantial potential to be used as a feasible adsorbent for probable hazardous metals remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Now days MIMO–OFDM is highly preferred in mobile communication, includes the 5th generation (long term evaluation). The objectives of current research include proposing and designing a high quality 5G cellular network using minimum resources and handover mechanism. The handover mechanism is implemented for the minimization of the time in the performance of the cellular network. The performance of the proposed simulation model for the 5G cellular network is extracted based resource allocation and handover mechanism. This implementation is reducing the handover preparation time and execution time. For the three selected schemes of transmission as − 5 dB, 0 dB, and 5 dB the experiment acts as an active, passive, and clustered. For the 0 dB the transmission acts as an active transmission, for the − 5 dB it acts as a passive, and for the 5db it acts as a clustered mode for the transmission. The present study clearly demonstrated that the 5G network can be communicated within minimum resources, time, space, and usability of the white spectrum with maximum speed. Due to the increasing complexity of network topology in 5G Heterogeneous with the integration of many different base station types, in the 5G architecture mobility management has many challenges. The intense deployment of small cells, along with many advantages it provides, brings important mobility management problems such as frequent Handover (HO), HO failure, HO delays, ping pong HO and high energy consumption which will result in lower user experience and heavy signal loads. The simulation framework was efficiently designed towards the minimum resources and maximum speed objective. The proposed model allowed to reduce the time required for handover mechanism time and its execution time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zolmitriptan (ZT) is a potent second generation triptan, commonly administered to alleviate migraine attacks. ZT suffers various limitations; massive hepatic first pass metabolism, P-gp efflux transporters susceptibility, and limited (≈40%) oral bioavailability. Transdermal route of administration could be explored to enhance its bioavailability. A 23.31 full factorial design was constructed to developed twenty-four ZT loaded terpesomes via thin film hydration technique. The influence of drug: phosphatidylcholine ratio, terpene type, terpene concentration and sodium deoxycholate concentration on the characterization of the developed ZT-loaded terpesomes was assessed. Particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), ZT entrapment efficiency (EE%), drug loading (DL%) and drug released percentages after 6 h (Q6h) were the selected dependent variables. Further morphological, crystallinity, and in-vivo histopathological studies were conducted for the optimum terpesomes (T6). 99mTc-ZT and 99mTc-ZT-T6 gel were radio-formulated for in-vivo biodistribution studies in mice following transdermal application of 99mTc-ZT-T6 gel, relative to 99mTc-ZT oral solution. T6 terpesomes [comprising ZT and phosphatidylcholine (1:15), cineole (1% w/v) and sodium deoxycholate (0.1% w/v)] were optimum with respect to spherical PS (290.2 nm), ZP (-48.9 mV), EE% (83%), DL% (3.9%) and Q6h (92.2%) with desirability value of 0.85. The safety of the developed T6 terpesomes was verified by the in-vivo histopathological studies. 99mTc-ZT-T6 gel showed maximum brain concentration (5 ± 0.1%ID/ g) with highest brain to blood ratio of 1.92 ± 0.1 at 4 h post transdermal application. Significant improvement of ZT brain relative bioavailability (529%) and high brain targeting efficiency (315%) were revealed with 99mTc-ZT-T6 gel, which confirmed successful ZT delivery to the brain. Terpesomes could be safe, successful systems capable of improving ZT bioavailability with high brain targeting efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) occurs during the reproductive period in women and is characterized by reproductive, endocrine, and metabolic disorders. Androgen plays a decisive role in its pathogenesis due to the interaction between hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance, which might be improved by selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs). The present study aimed to clarify the effect of SeNPs on androgen synthesis and action in the PCOS model and the resulting effect on ovarian function. Fifty-five 7-week-old female albino rats (90–105 g) were divided equally into five groups: control (C), fed a standard diet for 11 weeks; high-fat diet (HFD) group, fed HFD for 11 weeks; HFD and letrozole (L) (HFD + L), fed HFD for 11 weeks and administrated orally with L, at a daily dose of 1 mg/kg BW, for three weeks from the 7th to 9th week of the trial; HFD + L + 0.1SeNPs and HFD + L + 0.2SeNPs groups, treated the same as HFD + L group and orally gavaged SeNPs at daily doses of 0.1 and 0.2 mg/kg BW, respectively, during the last 14 day of the experiment. Daily determination of estrous cycle was performed, and at the end of the experimental period, BMI, serum glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, lipid profile, sex hormones, TNF-α, IL6, oxidative stress biomarkers, ovarian mRNA expression of different proteins and enzymes involved in steroidogenesis, pathological examination, and immunohistochemical staining for androgen receptor (AR) were evaluated. Treatment of SeNPs restored estrous cyclicity, decreased BMI, and insulin resistance, improved dyslipidemia, reduced serum testosterone, and improved ovarian histopathology in PCOS rats. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant impacts of SeNPs were remarkably noticed. Administration of SeNPs decreased androgen synthesis and expression of ovarian AR protein by decreasing the mRNA expression of STAR, Cyp11A1, Cyp17A1, and HSD17B3 and increasing the expression of Cyp19α1. Conclusively, SeNPs decreased androgen synthesis and blocked the vicious circle initiated by excessive androgen secretion via decreased AR expression. Thus, it may effectively treat PCOS cases by eliminating its reproductive, endocrine, and metabolic dysfunctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze the impact of axial length (AL) on the visual outcome and rate of perioperative complications in phacoemulsification surgery. Design: Retrospective clinical database study. Methods: Cataract surgery data of 217,556 eyes was extracted from the electronic medical records of 8 ophthalmic centers in the United Kingdom from July 2003 to March 2015. A total of 88,774 eyes without ocular co-pathologies were grouped eyes according to AL (mm): short AL (< 22), average AL (22–26; reference group), and long AL (> 26). Main outcomes and measures: We analyzed visual acuity (VA) outcomes at 4 weeks, 4–12 weeks, and 12–24 weeks postoperatively, as well as the incidence of posterior capsular rupture (PCR), torn iris (TI), cystoid macular edema (CME), and retinal detachment (RD). Results: Mean pre-operative VA (logMAR) was the worst in eyes with long AL compared to average and short AL eyes (VA 0.59 vs. 0.58 and 0.56; p < 0.001). However, post-operative VA at 4–12 weeks was slightly better in the long AL group (0.14 in short and average AL; 0.12 in long AL, p < 0.001). We observed an increased odds of TI in the short AL group (OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.60–2.75). There was increased risk of RD in long AL eyes (p < 0.001). However, PCR and CME rates were not different. Conclusion: In the absence of any coexisting ocular pathology, AL alone did not have an impact on VA improvement or the risk of encountering PCR or CME. The risk of TI was greater in the short AL group, and the risk of RD was higher in the long AL group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the dual issues of antibiotic resistance and bioaccumulation toxicity, antibiotics are ubiquitously present in aquatic environments, and this is causing serious concern. Herein, novel nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) nanoparticles were successfully loaded onto activated biochar (BC) derived from banana peel (BP) to obtain magnetic nanocomposite (BC-NiFe2O4) as an effective biosorbent for the ciprofloxacin antibiotic (CIP) elimination from pharmaceutical effluent. A facile co-precipitation approach was utilized to construct the heterogeneous BC-NiFe2O4. The synthesized materials were systematically characterized using techniques such as XRD, FE-SEM, EDX, HR-TEM, BET, FTIR, and XPS. In addition, the magnetic measurements indicated the ferromagnetic behavior of the BC-NiFe2O4 sample. The influencing factors (i.e., pH, contact time, initial concentration, dose of adsorbent, ions interference, and solution temperature) of the adsorption process were also well studied. The adsorption capacity of the BC-NiFe2O4 heterostructure was 68.79 mg g−1 compared to the BC sample (35.71 mg g−1), confirming that the loading of magnetically NiFe2O4 nanoparticles onto the surface of porous biochar enhanced its stability and adsorption performance for CIP removal, wherein the metal-antibiotic complex has a significant effect for the removal of CIP. Moreover, the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and the pseudo-second-order model displayed a good fit for the experimental data. The values of △H° and △G° revealed that the adsorption process was endothermic and spontaneous. The coordination affinities, π-π stacking, and H-bonding interactions play a more critical role in the adsorption mechanism that confirmed by FTIR and XPS analysis. To study the stability of BC-NiFe2O4 nanocomposites, desorption and recycling studies were investigated. The results revealed that after three cycles, no significant loss in removal efficiency was detected, reflecting the stability and reusability of the prepared BC-NiFe2O4 nanocomposite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (AMNs) with disseminated disease (pseudomyxoma peritonei) are heterogeneous tumors with variable clinicopathologic behavior. Despite the development of prognostic systems, objective biomarkers are needed to stratify patients. With the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS), it remains unclear if molecular testing can improve the evaluation of disseminated AMN patients. Methods: Targeted NGS was performed for 183 patients and correlated with clinicopathologic features to include American Joint Committee on Cancer/World Health Organization (AJCC/WHO) histologic grade, peritoneal cancer index (PCI), completeness of cytoreduction (CC) score, and overall survival (OS). Results: Genomic alterations were identified for 179 (98%) disseminated AMNs. Excluding mitogen-activated protein kinase genes and GNAS due to their ubiquitous nature, collective genomic alterations in TP53, SMAD4, CDKN2A, and the mTOR genes were associated with older mean age, higher AJCC/WHO histologic grade, lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, regional lymph node metastasis, and lower mean PCI (p < 0.040). Patients harboring TP53, SMAD4, ATM, CDKN2A, and/or mTOR gene alterations were found to have lower OS rates of 55% at 5 years and 14% at 10 years, compared with 88% at 5 years and 88% at 10 years for patients without the aforementioned alterations (p < 0.001). Based on univariate and multivariate analyses, genomic alterations in TP53, SMAD4, ATM, CDKN2A, and/or the mTOR genes in disseminated AMNs were a negative prognostic factor for OS and independent of AJCC/WHO histologic grade, PCI, CC score, and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy treatment (p = 0.006). Conclusions: Targeted NGS improves the prognostic assessment of patients with disseminated AMNs and identifies patients who may require increased surveillance and/or aggressive management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the synthesis and isolation of a new binuclear complex of yttrium with anthranilic acid (HA). The complex [Y2(HA)6(H2O)4] Cl6.2C2H5OH (C1) was obtained as single crystals that its X-ray analysis revealed its triclinic P-1 space group in addition to anti-prismatic geometry around each of the yttrium ions. In the complex, the anthranilic acid ligands are bidentate, zwitter ionic and neutral, and the yttrium ions' charge is only compensated by six chloride ions. The cytotoxicity of this complex against human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells, prostate cancer PC-3 cells, and bladder cancer T-24 cells was evaluated. This yttrium complex displayed more cytotoxic activity against the bladder cancer cells with an IC50 value of 307.7 μg/ml (223 μM). On the other hand, the activities of complex C1 against the MDA-MB-231 and PC-3 cells were less significant respectively with IC50 values of 1097 μg/ml (796 μM) and 921 μg/ml (669 μM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a new simple method for solving two integral equations of Love's type that have many applications, especially in electrostatic systems. The approach of the solution is based on an innovative technique using matrix algebra for the barycentric Lagrange interpolation. The unknown function is expressed through the product of four matrices. The kernel is interpolated twice, so we get it in the product of five matrices. Additionally, we derive an equivalent linear algebraic system to the solution by substituting the matrix-vector barycentric interpolated unknown function together with the double interpolated kernel into both sides of the integral equation. Thus, there was no need to employ the collocation method. The obtained results converge strongly with the approximate analytical solutions, in addition to being uniformly approximated, continuous, and even, which proves the validity of the solution by the presented method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colorectal cancer leads to peritoneal metastases (CRPM) in 10% of cases. Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion (CRS-HIPEC) improves survival. Primary tumor location and abnormalities in RAS, BRAF, and mismatch repair/microsatellite stability (MMR/MSI) may affect post-CRS-HIPEC survival, but studies have not been consistent. We estimated the effects of primary tumor site and genomic alterations on post-CRS-HIPEC survival. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included CRS-HIPEC cases for CRPM at a high-volume center from 2001 to 2020. Next-generation sequencing and microsatellite testing defined the RAS, BRAF, and MMR/MSI genotypes. Adjusted effects of tumor sidedness and genomics on survival were evaluated using a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model. We analyzed these variables' effects on progression-free survival and the effects of immune checkpoint-inhibitors. Results: A total of 250 patients underwent CRS-HIPEC with testing for RAS, BRAF, and MMR/MSI; 50.8% of patients were RAS-mutated, 12.4% were BRAF-mutated, and 6.8% were deficient-MMR/MSI-high (dMMR/MSI-H). Genomic alterations predominated in right-sided cancers. After adjustment for comorbidities and oncological and perioperative variables, rectal origin [hazard ratio (HR) 1.9, p = 0.01], RAS mutation (HR 1.6, p = 0.01), and BRAF mutation (HR 1.7, p = 0.05) were associated with worse survival. RAS mutation was also associated with shorter progression-free survival (HR 1.6, p = 0.01 at 6 months post-operatively), and dMMR/MSI-H status was associated with superior survival (HR 0.3, p = 0.01 at 2 years). dMMR/MSI-H patients receiving immune checkpoint-inhibitors trended toward superior survival. Conclusions: Rectal origin, RAS mutations, and BRAF mutations are each associated with poorer survival after CRS-HIPEC for CRPM. Patients with CRPM and dMMR/MSI-H status have superior survival. Further research should evaluate benefits of immune checkpoint-inhibitors in this subgroup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oxidation of SiO and FO by LH, ER, NER and TER mechanisms on metal doped nanotubes is investigated in order to find the catalytic abilities of metal doped nanotubes. The SiO and FO molecules are joined on metal doped nanotube-O2* and metal doped nanotube-O* and calculated barrier energies are lower than metal based catalysts. Results shown that Fe and V doped BNNT have higher potential than metal doped CNT to adsorb the O2, SiO2 and FO2. The metal doped nanotube-OSiOO* and metal doped nanotube-OFOO* intermediates in ER are permanent than corresponding intermediate. Result shown that in NER mechanism the OOSiSiOO* and OOFFOO* formation is rate limiting step and the creation of surface-OSiOOSiO* and surface-OFOOFO* is the rate-limiting steps of TER mechanisms. The metal doped nanotubes (V-BNNT, V-CNT, Fe-BNNT and Fe-CNT) can catalyze the processes of SiO and FO oxidation by LH, ER, NER and TER mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, multi-walled carbon nanotubes showed interesting bolometer properties. The bolometer which turn the change in resistance of active material to the voltage responsivity can be considered as a highly efficient detector. Multi-wall carbon nanotubes immersed in polyvinylidene fluoride polymer was fabricated between two metallic electrodes to form a thin film bolometer. The bolometer was illuminated by IR source. This structure simplifies the design of the bolometric detector and gives rise to high efficiency through the extended heat sink electrode. The temperature coefficient of the resistance was calculated, and it was about 0.2% T−1. The responsivity of the detector was about 2 V/W. The time response of this detector was found to be about 200 μs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the synthesis of two cluster compounds {(NH4)2[Co(H2O)6]2V10O28·4H2O (C1) and (NH4)2[Ni(H2O)6]2V10O28·4H2O (C2)} which were obtained as single crystals suitable for XRD analysis that revealed their crystallization in the monoclinic (C2/c) and triclinic (P-1) space groups, respectively. Additionally, C1 and C2 were characterized using CHN analysis and FT-IR spectroscopy and their thermal decomposition mechanisms were investigated. The antibacterial activities of both compounds were determined against three human pathogenic bacterial strains {Bacillus cereus ATCC 33,018, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027} and one phytopathogenic bacterial strain {Ralstonia solanacearum}, while drug standards {chloramphenicol and streptomycin} were used as control. The inhibitory activity and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of the tested compounds clearly indicated higher antibacterial activities of the nickel compound against B. cereus ATCC 33,018, E. coli O157 and R. solanacearum with MIC values of 3.150, 3.150 and 6.300 mg/ml, respectively. On the other hand, (NH4)2[Co(H2O)6]2V10O28·4H2O exhibited higher antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa ATCC 9027 (MIC value of 6.300 mg/ml) in comparison to the nickel analog. In general, the measured activities are lower than that obtained for the standards except for the higher activity given by C2 in comparison to streptomycin against the R. solanacearum strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comparison study examines six different metal oxides (CuO, ZnO, Fe3O4, Co3O4, NiO, and α-MnO2) for the degradation of malachite green dye using four distinct processes. These processes are as follows: sonocatalysis (US/metal oxide), sonocatalysis under ultra-violet irradiation (US/metal oxide/UV), sonocatalysis in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (US/metal oxide/H2O2), and a combination of all these processes (US/metal oxide/UV/H2O2). The effective operating parameters, such as the dosage of metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs), the type of the process, and the metal oxides' efficiency order, were studied. At the same reaction conditions, the sonophotocatalytic is the best process for all six MOsNPs, CuO was the better metal oxide than other MOsNPs, and at the sonocatalysis process, ZnO was the best metal oxide in other processes. It was found that the metal oxide order for sonocatalytic process is CuO > α-MnO2 ≥ ZnO > NiO ≥ Fe3O4 ≥ Co3O4 within 15–45 min. The order of (US/metal oxide/UV) process is ZnO ≥ NiO ≥ α-MnO2 > Fe3O4 ≥ CuO ≥ Co3O4 within 5–40 min. The order of (US/ MOsNPs/ H2O2) process is ZnO ≥ CuO ≥ α-MnO2 ≥ NiO > Co3O4 > Fe3O4 within 5–20 min. The maximum removal efficiency order of the sonophotocatalytic process is ZnO ≥ CuO > α-MnO2 > NiO > Fe3O4 ≥ Co3O4 within 2–8 min. The four processes degradation efficiency was in the order US/MOsNPs ˂ US/MOsNPs/UV ˂ US/MOsNPs/H2O2 ˂ (UV/Ultrasonic/MOsNPs/H2O2). Complete degradation of MG was obtained at 0.05 g/L MONPs and 1 mM of H2O2 using 296 W/L ultrasonic power and 15 W ultra-violet lamp (UV-C) within a reaction time of 8 min according to the MOsNPs type at the same sonophotocatalytic/H2O2 reaction conditions. The US/metal oxide/UV/H2O2 process is inexpensive, highly reusable, and efficient for degrading dyes in colored wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trigeminal neuralgia (TGN) is a facial pain disorder often caused by arterial compression of the trigeminal nerve. Microvascular decompression (MVD) remains the most definitive treatment for this disorder, with a reported cure rate between 60 and 80%. MVD techniques often involve a retrosigmoid craniotomy with placement of an inert foreign material, such as Gore-Tex or Teflon, between the nerve and the compressing vessel. Recurrence of TGN after MVD has been associated with vessel migration and adhesion formation. In this study, we tested the use of Gore-Tex sling, fixed in place with fibrin glue to displace the compressing vessel away from the nerve. Results: This is a retrospective study including 20 patients who had an MVD for treatment of idiopathic TGN where a sling of Gore-Tex was used with the application of fibrin glue to prevent dislocation of the vessel. It showed that sling MVD technique is an effective method for treatment of classic trigeminal neuralgia. Eighteen patients improved within 2 weeks postoperatively. One patient had recurrence of symptoms and was reoperated 1 year later. Conclusion: Gore-Tex slinging technique is a safe simple technique for preventing re-dislocation of the offending vessel and thus recurrence of symptoms. However, larger series is needed to judge on the long-term efficacy and safety of this technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Removal of dyes from aqueous environments is of great significance because of their potential adverse effects on living organisms and improvement of bacterial resistance. The present study deals with Brilliant green (BG) dye removal using synthesized AC/ZnO nanocomposite. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), TEM, XRD, EDX, BET, and TGA is used to identify the AC/ZnO nanocomposite. The adsorption studies were done to estimate the influence of (10–100 mg L−1) initial concentration, (3; 5; 6.6; 8 and 10) pHs solution, (0.0025–0.15) gm mass of AC/ZnO nanocomposite, and (10–30 °C) effect of temp. After optimization, the maximum removal percentage is found to be 87.40% at a primary concentration of 100 mg L−1, a pH of 6.6, an adsorbent amount of 0.1 gm/100 ml, and a contact time of 2 h. Our results appear to obey the Freundlich model, while kinetic studies refer to the following Pseudo second-order kinetics. The thermodynamic parameters change in (∆G°), (∆H°), and (∆S°) were calculated, and negative values of ∆G° meant that the adsorption mechanism was spontaneous at all temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Beneficial response to first-line immunosuppressive azathioprine in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is low due to high rates of adverse events. Co-administrating allopurinol has been shown to improve tolerability. However, data on this co-therapy as first-line treatment are scarce. Aim: Retrospective comparison of long-term effectiveness and safety of first-line low-dose azathioprine-allopurinol co-therapy (LDAA) with first-line azathioprine monotherapy (AZAm) in patients with IBD without metabolite monitoring. Methods: Clinical benefit was defined as ongoing therapy without initiation of steroids, biologics or surgery. Secondary outcomes included CRP, HBI/SCCAI, steroid withdrawal and adverse events. Results: In total, 166 LDAA and 118 AZAm patients (median follow-up 25 and 27 months) were evaluated. Clinical benefit was more frequently observed in LDAA patients at 6 months (74% vs. 53%, p = 0.0003), 12 months (54% vs. 37%, p = 0.01) and in the long-term (median 36 months; 37% vs. 24%, p = 0.04). Throughout follow-up, AZAm patients were 60% more likely to fail therapy, due to a higher intolerance rate (45% vs. 26%, p = 0.001). Only 73% of the effective AZA dose was tolerated in AZAm patients, while LDAA could be initiated and maintained at its target dose. Incidence of myelotoxicity and elevated liver enzymes was similar in both cohorts, and both conditions led to LDAA withdrawal in only 2%. Increasing allopurinol from 100 to 200–300 mg/day significantly lowered liver enzymes in 5/6 LDAA patients with hepatotoxicity. Conclusions: Our poor AZAm outcomes emphasize that optimization of azathioprine is needed. We demonstrated a long-term safe and more effective profile of first-line LDAA. This co-therapy may therefore be considered standard first-line immunosuppressive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Microvascular decompression surgery for trigeminal neuralgia is now considered the benchmark surgical procedure for intractable trigeminal neuralgia of any variety. The objective of this study is to share our experience in managing classical trigeminal neuralgia with microvascular decompression surgery looking into both immediate and late functional outcomes at 3 and 6 months post op. We also report a unique case of trigeminal neuralgia due to a tributary of the petrosal vein passing through the substance of the trigeminal nerve itself at its root entry zone. Results: This study included 20 patients; it showed that microvascular decompression surgery of the trigeminal nerve is an effective method for treatment of classic trigeminal neuralgia (p value < 0.001). The trigeminal root was compressed by the superior cerebellar artery in 75% of patients. A vein contributed to the compression in 45% of patients and was the only compressing vessel in 15%. Conclusion: Microvascular decompression surgery is the treatment of choice in patients with medically refractory trigeminal neuralgia, unless their general condition prohibits it. It's also worth noting that the normal anatomy of the veins in this region is quite variable and the venous structures causing a neurovascular contact are more or less inconsistent. To the best of our knowledge and despite the wide range and progress in microvascular decompression surgery for trigeminal neuralgia, this is the first reported case in the literature for a neurovascular conflict caused by a vein passing through the trigeminal nerve itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ASP (Alkaline/Surfactant/Polymer) flooding is one of the most promising techniques that has proven to have successful application in several laboratory and pilot tests. However, the formation of persistent and stable emulsions is one of the associated problems with ASP flooding. The present work investigated the effect of sodium carbonate alkaline, Alpha Olefin Sulfonate (AOS) surfactant, and GLP100 polymer on produced crude oil emulsion. The study was conducted by measuring the emulsion stability in terms of water separation and rag layer volume using a TurbiScan analyzer, the dispersed droplet size using cross-polarization microscopy, the interfacial tension using spinning drop tensiometer, and rheological properties using rheometer. The experimental results have shown that AOS presence increased the emulsion stability only when its concentration is above 100 ppm. Meanwhile, below 100 ppm, the presence of AOS promoted water separation and reduced the rag layer volume. In a less significant manner, a high concentration of sodium carbonate alkali increased the stability of the emulsion. The use of GLP100 Polymer has shown substantial ability in promoting water separation and reducing the rag layer volume to a minimal level. It is believed that the outcomes of this work will aid in developing a suitable destabilization process to enhance the oil–water separation and produced water treatment from ASP flooding in the oil production fields. Further investigations on AS, AP, SP as well as the ASP's combined effect on emulsion stability, droplet size, interfacial tension and rheological properties are highly recommended to support the decision-makers on the EOR implementations with chemical additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the outcome of macular hole (MH) treatment in eyes with uveitis. Data source: We searched PubMed and Embase databases from inception through August 15, 2021. Study selection: We included eyes with MHs secondary to uveitis that were managed medically or underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). We excluded eyes with idiopathic MH and those secondary to causes other than uveitis. Results: Of 27 articles, we identified 86 eyes with MH secondary to uveitis that received either conservative medical treatment alone or PPV with adequate follow-up. The mean (± SD) age of patients included in this review was 46.6 (± 16.8) years; 60.5% were males. The most common etiology of uveitis was Behçet's disease (34.6%) and toxoplasmosis (19.7%). The most common anatomical location of uveitis was posterior (59.3%) followed by panuveitis (35.2%). The mean (± SD) baseline LogMAR vision was 1.1 (± 0.5). Conservative medical treatment was employed in 34.9%, while PPV was performed in 65.1% of eyes. Overall, the mean (SD) LogMAR vision improved from 1.1 (± 0.5) at baseline to 0.7 (± 0.5) after treatment. Inflammation-related MHs were closed in 40% of eyes after conservative therapy and in 87.5% of eyes after PPV. Visual improvement occurred in most eyes (83.9%) that had successful closure of their MH. Conclusions: Visual improvement occurs in most eyes that had successful closure of their inflammation-related MH. Conservative medical control of uveitis may lead to closure of inflammation-related MHs and is an important step prior to surgery, if required. Surgical intervention for inflammation-related MHs is associated with good functional and anatomical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the major reasons why central nervous system (CNS)-drug development has been challenging in the past, is the barriers that prevent substances entering from the blood circulation into the brain. These barriers include the blood-brain barrier (BBB), blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB), blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB), and blood-arachnoid barrier (BAB), and they differ from each other in their transporter protein expression and function as well as among the species. The quantitative expression profiles of the transporters in the CNS-barriers have been recently revealed, and in this review, it is described how they affect the pharmacokinetics of compounds and how these expression differences can be taken into account in the prediction of brain drug disposition in humans, an approach called pharmacoproteomics. In recent years, also structural biology and computational resources have progressed remarkably, enabling a detailed understanding of the dynamic processes of transporters. Molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) are currently used commonly to reveal the conformational changes of the transporters and to find the interactions between the substrates and the protein during the binding, translocation in the transporter cavity, and release of the substrate on the other side of the membrane. The computational advancements have also aided in the rational design of transporter-utilizing compounds, including prodrugs that can be actively transported without losing potency towards the pharmacological target. In this review, the state-of-art of these approaches will be also discussed to give insights into the transporter-mediated drug delivery to the CNS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a detailed study of an on-chip optical modulator using a non-conventional silicon-based platform. This platform is based on the optimum design of ultra-thin silicon on insulator waveguide. This platform is characterized by low field confinement inside the core waveguide and high sensitivity to the cladding index. Accordingly, it lends itself to a wide range of applications, such as sensing and optical modulation. By employing this waveguide into the Mach–Zehnder interferometer configuration, an efficient optical modulator is reported using an organic polymer as an active material for the electro-optic effect. An extinction ratio of more than 20 dB is achieved with energy per bit of 13.21 fJ/bit for 0.5 V applied voltage. This studied platform shows promising and adequate performance for modulation applications. It is cheap and easy to fabricate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare visual outcomes, incidence of cystoid macular edema (CME), and rate of repeat epiretinal membrane (ERM) surgery following phacovitrectomy for primary and secondary ERM. Methods: Retrospective review of 178,856 cataract surgeries from 2003 to 2015. Eyes that underwent cataract surgery combined with ERM peel were included (n = 708). Eyes were divided into primary (n = 538) and secondary (n = 170) ERM groups. Patient demographics, visual acuity (VA), and postoperative CME were recorded. Results: Patients with secondary ERM had worse preoperative VA, 0.9 ± 0.6 logMAR (20/160 Snellen equivalent) as compared to patients with primary ERM, 0.6 ± 0.3 (20/80), respectively (p < 0.0001). There was no difference between the secondary and primary ERM groups in postoperative vision (0.5 ± 0.4 logMAR vs. 0.5 ± 0.3; p = 0.9962) or proportion with VA ≥ 20/40 (46.4% vs. 43.1%; p = 0.6744) at 12–24 weeks. Postoperative CME was twice as likely in the secondary ERM group (16.5%) compared to the primary ERM group (7.8%) (p = 0.0018). There was no difference in the rate of repeat ERM surgery between the secondary ERM group (1.8%) and the primary ERM group (1.5%) (p = 0.7308). Conclusion: Eyes with secondary ERM had significant postoperative improvement in VA. They had worse preoperative VA and had a twofold increase in postoperative CME than primary ERM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Importance: Tympanic membrane retraction (TMR) is a relatively common otological finding. However, no consensus on its management exists. We are looking especially for a treatment strategy in the military population who are unable to attend frequent follow-up visits, and who experience relatively more barotrauma at great heights and depths and easily suffer from otitis externa from less hygienic circumstances. Objective: To assess and summarize the available evidence for the effectiveness of surgical interventions and watchful waiting policy in patients with a tympanic membrane retraction. Evidence review: The protocol for this systematic review was published at Prospero (207859). PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were systematically searched from inception up to September 2020 for published and unpublished studies. We included randomized trials and observational studies that investigated surgical interventions (tympanoplasty, ventilation tube insertion) and wait-and-see policy. The primary outcomes of this study were clinical remission of the tympanic membrane retraction, tympanic membrane perforations and cholesteatoma development. Findings: In total, 27 studies were included, consisting of 1566 patients with TMRs. We included data from 2 randomized controlled trials (76 patients) and 25 observational studies (1490 patients). Seven studies (329 patients) investigated excision of the TMR with and without ventilation tube placement, 3 studies (207 patients) investigated the wait-and-see policy and 17 studies (1030 patients) investigated tympanoplasty for the treatment of TMRs. Conclusions and relevance: This study provides all the studies that have been published on the surgical management and wait-and-policy for tympanic membrane retractions. No high level of evidence comparative studies has been performed. The evidence for the management of tympanic membrane retractions is heterogenous and depends on many factors such as the patient population, location and severity of the TMR and presence of other ear pathologies (e.g., perforation, risk of cholesteatoma and serous otitis media). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: Corona virus; COVID; Vaccine; Optic neuropathy; Uveitis EN Corona virus COVID Vaccine Optic neuropathy Uveitis 1005 1009 5 11/09/21 20211201 NES 211201 To the Editor, We read with interest the article "Acute reduction of visual acuity and visual field after Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine 2nd dose" by Santovito and Pinna [[1]]. 33910885published Online First: Epub Date 38 Crnej A, Khoueir Z, Cherfan G, Saad A. Acute corneal endothelial graft rejection following COVID-19 vaccination. 8352849published Online First: Epub Date 18 Douedi S, Naser H, Mazahir U, Hamad AI, Sedarous M. Third cranial nerve palsy due to COVID-19 infection. [Extracted from the article]

Thiopurines (mercaptopurine, azathioprine and thioguanine) are well-established maintenance treatments for a wide range of diseases such as leukemia, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other inflammatory and autoimmune diseases in general. Worldwide, millions of patients are treated with thiopurines. The use of thiopurines has been limited because of off-target effects such as myelotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. Therefore, seeking methods to enhance target-based thiopurine-based treatment is relevant, combined with pharmacogenetic testing. Controlled-release formulations for thiopurines have been clinically tested and have shown promising outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease. Latest developments in nano-formulations for thiopurines have shown encouraging pre-clinical results, but further research and development are needed. This review provides an overview of novel drug delivery strategies for thiopurines, reviewing modified release formulations and with a focus on nano-based formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital micro-mirror devices (DMDs) have been deployed in many optical applications. As compared to spatial light modulators (SLMs), they are characterized by their much faster refresh rates (full-frame refresh rates up to 32 kHz for binary patterns) compared to 120 Hz for most liquid crystal SLMs. DMDs however can only display binary, unipolar patterns and utilize temporal modulation to represent with excellent accuracy multiple gray-levels in display applications. We used the built-in time domain dynamic range representation of the DMD to project 8-bit complex-fields. With this method, we demonstrated 8-bit complex field modulation with a frame time of 38.4 ms (around 0.15 s for the entire complex-field). We performed phase conjugation by compensating the distortions incurred due to propagation through free-space and a scattering medium. For faster modulation speed, an electro-optic modulator was used in synchronization with the DMD in an amplitude modulation mode to create grayscale patterns with frame rate ~ 833 Hz with display time of only 1.2 ms instead of 38.4 ms for time multiplexing gaining a speed up by a factor of 32. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The targeted approach of protein kinases (PKs), as PKs are the main regulators of cell survival and proliferation, has been a promising strategy for cancer treatments. Here we analyse the potential of quinoline-carboxamide derivatives for four cell lines: MCF-7, CACO, HepG-2 and HCT-116 as anticancer agents. 3e, 4b, 11b and 13d derivatives showed good anti-proliferative activities in comparison to the reference standard Doxorubicin, against the four cell lines tested. They have been chosen for further studies. First of all, the IC50 value surveys were carried out to ensure the protection of our hits and demonstrate that the cytotoxic effect (IC50 > 113 μM) is highly selective on normal human cells (WI-38). Secondly, apoptosis was accomplished by down-regulation of Bcl-2 and up-regulation of BAX and Caspase-3 by these active compounds. Also, the Pim-1 inhibitory activity of the active hybrids was done, which indicates that compound 3e was the most active with the percentage of inhibition 82.27% and IC50 equals 0.11 when compared to SGI-1776 as a reference standard. In addition, by in silico assessment of ADME properties, all of the strongest compounds are orally bioavailable without blood–brain barrier penetration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sandwich ELISA is an ideal antigen detection and quantification assay. Recently, it was used as the basic concept for high technology diagnostics. The specificity of the assay depends on the exclusion of detection cross-reactivity which arises from using two antibodies developed in different species. Since mice and rats are the common laboratory animals used to develop antigen specific antibodies. Therefore, the questions we addressed here were (1) can one use antigen-specific antibodies raised in mice and rats in the same assay to specifically detect/quantify antigens? and (2) which antibodies of the two rodents should be placed for capturing and for detection in the antigen-detection sandwich? Results: Direct ELISA assay was used to assess for the specific reaction of the HRP-conjugated antibody to the target serum. First reaction was to compare between either conjugate anti-rat IgG (homologous) or anti-mouse IgG (heterologous) for the detection of rat sera IgG. Following the dilution factor optimization, the O.D. were 0.744±0.051 and 0.604±0.05, respectively (p=.004). The difference in mean O.D. of 0.14 reflected an unaccepted non-specific reaction. The second reaction was to compare between either conjugate anti-mouse IgG (homologous) and anti-rat IgG (heterologous) for the detection of mouse sera IgG. The recorded O.D. were 0.9414±0.14 and 0.317 ±0.141, respectively (p=.0002). The improved difference in mean O.D. of 0.624 reflecting a minimized cross-reaction. Conclusions: Our results suggest that it is possible to use both Swiss albino mice and albino rats in a single sandwich ELISA, given that the captured antibody species to be from the Swiss albino mice and the detection antibody to be from the albino rat. The described working details are limited to the source of the antibodies used in the study. However, the approach stresses on the importance of such optimization steps before making any interpretations based on the antigen detection. To our knowledge, this study is the first to cover the optimal order of the capturing and the detection antibodies in a sandwich ELISA assay. In addition to addressing the possible interfering cross-reactivity that result from using mouse and rat serum antibodies in a single assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Elevated intracranial pressure due to cerebral edema is associated with very poor survival in patients with acute liver failure (ALF). Placing an intracranial pressure monitor (ICPm) aids in management of intracranial hypertension, but is associated with potentially fatal hemorrhagic complications related to the severe coagulopathy associated with ALF. Methods: An institutional Acute Liver Failure Clinical Protocol (ALF-CP) was created to correct ALF coagulopathy prior to placing parenchymal ICP monitoring bolts. We aimed to investigate the frequency, severity, and clinical significance of hemorrhagic complications associated with ICPm bolt placement in the setting of an ALF-CP. All assessed patients were managed with the ALF-CP and had rigorous radiologic follow-up allowing assessment of the occurrence and chronology of hemorrhagic complications. We also aimed to compare our outcomes to other studies that were identified through a comprehensive review of the literature. Results: Fourteen ALF patients were included in our analysis. There was no symptomatic hemorrhage after ICP monitor placement though four patients were found to have minor intraparenchymal asymptomatic hemorrhages after liver transplant when the ICP monitor had been removed, making the rate of radiographically identified clinically asymptomatic hemorrhage 28.6%. These results compare favorably to those found in a comprehensive review of the literature which revealed rates as high as 17.5% for symptomatic hemorrhages and 30.4% for asymptomatic hemorrhage. Conclusion: This study suggests that an intraparenchymal ICPm can be placed safely in tertiary referral centers which utilize a protocol such as the ALF-CP that aggressively corrects coagulopathy. The ALF-CP led to advantageous outcomes for ICPm placement with a 0% rate of symptomatic and low rate of asymptomatic hemorrhagic complications, which compares well to results reported in other series. A strict ICPm placement protocol in this setting facilitates management of ALF patients with cerebral edema during the wait time to transplantation or spontaneous recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00339-021-04626-2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study describes the loading of the quartz SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) linker with simultaneous lengthening of the linker through the terminal amine group by glutaraldehyde (GA). The reactive polyethylenimine (PEI) was introduced to the surface to increase the ability to capture Cu(II) ions. The composite got the abbreviation SiO2/PEI-Cu(II). The Cu(II) ions were the active center with a peroxo-complex activation state. The composite characterization included scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), electron-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface analyzer. The kinetics of the oxidative degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) dye obeyed the pseudo-first order under flooding conditions. The reaction parameters including the catalyst dose, solution pH, initial concentration of reactants, and temperature got some attention. The obtained results showed that more than 91.7 ± 1% of RhB dye was degraded to CO2, NH4+, NO3–, H2O, and some inorganic acids after 30 min as confirmed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry and total organic carbon (TOC) measurements. Also, GC-MS spectra for water samples drawn from the reaction in successive periods had suggested a conceivable degradation pathway for RhB by hydroxyl radicals. Degradation starts with de-alkylation then carboxyphenyl removal followed by two successive ring-opening stages. Both the effects of the catalyst recycling and treated water reusability on the reaction rate were studied. The catalyst provided noticeable stability over three consecutive cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, nanocomposites were prepared with different percentages of alumina (Al2O3) and carbonated hydroxyapatite (CHA) using the mechanical alloying method. Then, the effect of sintering temperatures, up to 1300 °C, on their structure, molecular structure, microstructure and mechanical properties was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and ultrasonic techniques, respectively. Furthermore, the in vitro bioactivity of these nanocomposites was assessed by XRD and SEM. Moreover, physical and shrinkage measurements were performed for all sintered samples. The results obtained showed that increasing the sintering temperature to 1300 °C enhanced the hardness value, porosity content, and shrinkage of CHA-free sample from 12 to 14 GPa, 14 to 11% and 1.2 to 2.5%, respectively. However, at the same temperature, the sample with the highest CHA content showed a significant decrease in the hardness and porosity values from 9.3 to 8 GPa and from 8.5 to 6.5%, respectively. On the other hand, the shrinkage value of this sample increased from 8.8 to 16.5%. Finally, the increase in CHA contents was responsible for giving the sintered nanocomposites a good bioactivity behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Susceptibility and resistance of Haemonchus contortus to anthelmintic drugs, including ivermectin, levamisole, and albendazole in naturally infected sheep were investigated. Methods: Three sets of assays were conducted to detect drug efficacy. Firstly, in vivo estimation of drug resistance to H. contortus was explored in 80 sheep naturally infected with H. contortus. Sheep were divided into four equal groups (20 sheep for each group): the first group was treated with albendazole (5.00 mg/kg BW), the second with levamisole (7.50 mg/kg BW), the third with ivermectin (0.20 mg/kg BW), and the fourth group served as the untreated control. Fecal egg reduction test (FERT) was done at days 7 and 14 after treatment. Secondly, for in vitro egg hatching assay (EHA), H. contortus eggs from naturally infected sheep were collected and treated with 0.0002, 0.002, 0.02, 0.2, and 2.0 µg/mL albendazole. Thirdly, molecular detection of the albendazole resistance gene in adult male H. contortus worms and larvae from infected sheep was carried out using allele-specific PCR. Results: The FECRT results showed that the drug efficacy was 86.84% for albendazole and 100% for both levamisole and ivermectin. The result of EHA showed that eggs did not hatch at 2.0 µg/mL albendazole concentration. Molecular findings showed two forms, including H. contortus homozygous susceptible (SS) and heterozygous (RS) of "β-tubulin" gene at 200 sites, which were recorded in both single male worms and larvae. Conclusion: H. contortus, which was susceptible to levamisole and ivermectin, had developed resistance to albendazole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The [99mTc]Tc-Doxorubicin–Gold Nanoparticles (99mTc-Dox-AuNPs) was formulated as a nanoradiopharmaceutical by different loading procedures to enhance tumor targeting. The formula F1 that was prepared by direct loading of pre-prepared [99mTc]Tc-Doxorubicin showed a reasonable in-vitro characterization values, high entrapment efficiency (92 ± 0.72%), acceptable in vitro release data and convenient in-vitro serum stability up to 24 h. F1 presented high tumor uptake (54%ID/g) with high Target/ Non Target (T/NT) (≈ 77) and Drug Target Efficiency percent (%DTE) above 100% at 0.5 h via intra-tumoral injection that prove the increasing of tumor targeting and in-vivo stability by direct loading for pre-prepared [99mTc]Tc-Doxorubicin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this communication, we have investigated flow of hybrid nanomaterial (SWCNTs + MWCNTs) by a curved stretched surface. Relative analysis of nanomaterial (SWCNTs) and hybrid nanomaterial (SWCNTs + MWCNTs) is performed. Gasoline oil is treated as basefluid. Heat transfer features are elaborated via thermal radiation and convection. Equations relevant to flow field (PDEs) are transmitted into ODEs through adequate transformations. Solutions are developed via the shooting method. Furthermore, relative analysis of basefluid (gasoline oil), nanomaterial (SWCNTs) and hybrid nanomaterial (SWCNTs + MWCNTs) is presented through higher estimations of influential flow parameters during observation of flow, skin friction coefficient, temperature and Nusselt number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resources allocation (RA) is a challenging task in many fields and applications including communications and computer networks. The conventional solutions of such problems usually come with a time and memory cost, especially for massive networks such as Internet-of-Things (IoT) networks. In this paper, two RA deep network models are proposed for enabling a clustered underlay IoT deployment, where a group of IoT nodes are uploading information to a centralized gateway in their vicinity by reusing the communication channels of conventional cellular users. The RA problem is formulated as a two-dimensional matching problem, which can be expressed as a traditional linear sum assignment problem (LSAP). The two proposed models are based on the recurrent neural network (RNN). Specifically, we investigate the performance of two long short-term memory (LSTM) based architectures. The results show that the proposed techniques could be used as replacement of the well-known Hungarian algorithm for solving LSAPs due to its ability to find the solution for the problems with different sizes, high accuracy, and very fast execution time. Additionally, the results show that the obtained accuracy outperforms the state-of-the-art deep network techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]