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Aluminium metal matrix composites (AMMCs) using alumina (Al2O3) and silicon carbide (SiC) as reinforcement elements are gaining significant interest in various applications because of their excellent properties. In this study, Al2O3/SiC with compositions (0.5 wt.%, 1.5 wt.%, and 2.5 wt.% for each) were used as reinforcement elements in an aluminium alloy (AA2024-T6). The samples prepared were AA2024-T6 + (0.5Al2O3/0.5SiC), AA2024-T6 + (1.5Al2O3/1.5SiC), and AA2024-T6 + (2.5Al2O3/2.5SiC) using a stir-casting technique. The experimental study included density calculation mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, compressive strength and hardness. The study also included a microstructure examination of the fracture surface of the tensile specimens. The results showed that incorporating Al2O3/SiC as reinforcement materials into aluminium AA2024-T6 significantly improved its properties. Hence, increasing the reinforcement with compositions of 2.5Al2O3/2.5SiC into AA2024-T6 showed a drop in density and increased mechanical properties, such as ultimate tensile strength, compressive strength and hardness, compared to the base alloy (AA2024-T6). Furthermore, the scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed the uniform distribution of the reinforcement particles resulting in strong bonding with the matrix. The findings suggest that Al2O3/SiC reinforced with AA2024-T6 can be used in applications where a combination of lightweight and high strength is needed.

Solubility enhancement of poorly aqueous-soluble drugs, like Terbinafine (TBN), is a critical challenge in formulating effective dosage forms. This study focused on developing β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and polyacrylamide (PAM)-based microgels to address the solubility issue of TBN, classified as a biopharmaceutics classification system class II drug. The microgels were crafted through free radical polymerization, employing methylene bisacylamide as a cross-linker and methacrylic acid as a monomer, initiated by ammonium persulfate. Comprehensive characterizations, including Fourier transform infrared, thermo-gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffractometry analysis, Zeta size, and Zeta potential, were conducted. In vitro studies, such as drug release and swelling, were performed at pH 1.2. Toxicity analysis in rabbits revealed zero toxicity. These β-CD/PAM microgels successfully enhanced the solubility of TBN.

Glycine max L. (soybean) is an important leguminous staple crop. In this study, nutritional value, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant properties of soybean milled fractions (MF) were determined. Protein contents in different milled fractions ranged from 4.6% to 47.2%, and fat contents ranged from 1.9% to 22.1%. MF amino acid contents ranged from 6.8% to 37.9 g/100 g. Glycitein and genistin were the most concentrated isoflavones in the cotyledon and germ fractions. Although MF phenolics of protocatechuic, chlorogenic, hydroxybenzoic, vanillic, caffeic, and sinapic acids were abundant in bound and free phenolic extracts. In addition, MF total phenolic indexes ranged from 65 to 270.1 GAE/100 g and total flavonoid 7.5 to 92.3 mg GAE/100 g, which were found to be the most active of FRAP (80.2–197.1) and ABTS (28.2–125.6 µmol TEAC/100 g), respectively. The overall results provided useful information and encouraged the effective utilization of soybean-milled fractions as functional food ingredients for health requirements.

In recent years, Piezoelectric Transformers (PTs) have become a great success due to their excellent properties, especially in applications requiring high voltage. The Rosen-type PT is well known for this performance, as its voltage gain at the resonant frequency can reach few thousands. However, the high output impedance of this device can make an accurate electrical measurement of the output voltage difficult, hence the need to ensure good impedance matching along the measuring electrical test setup. For this purpose, two high impedance oscilloscope probes were successively added to the secondary side to further emulate the measurement chain and match the experiments as closely as possible with the developed 1D model. Accordingly, for an unloaded Rosen type piezoelectric transformer, made of hard ceramic (pz26) with corresponding dimensions 2L×w×t =25 mm×3 mm×2 mm and operating in the first three modes, the corresponding input impedances Zin were evaluated at 665 Ω - 225 Ω and 1974 Ω, while the output impedances Zout were evaluated at 19.2 MΩ - 15.4 MΩ, and 1.8 MΩ. A voltage gain of 164, 179 and 23 at frequencies of 69.4 kHz, 136 kHz and 204.6 kHz, respectively was successfully measured, with a precision of less than 5%. In addition, a detailed equivalent circuit of the transformer was built and all its lumped RLC components were experimentally identified using the Nyquist diagram showing, on the whole, a well-accepted agreement with the expected results.

The vocational training and education sector in Algeria faces numerous challenges due to its roles in both economic and social spheres. Therefore, this study aims to determine the extent of outstanding performance management practices in vocational training institutions in the state of Médéa, Algeria. The quantitative analytical approach was used on a sample of 21 vocational training institutions, relying on the questionnaire as a data collection tool, which was distributed to 51 (institution directors, sub-directors, and heads of departments). The study reached several results, the most important of which is the application of outstanding performance management in the studied institutions, where it was proven that the dimensions of performance management exist, and the institutions’ application of performance planning and feedback was at a high level. As for the institution’s application of the dimension of improving and developing performance and after measuring and evaluating performance, there was a medium level of application.

This study aimed to determine the appropriate timing for substituting live feed with artificial feed in the rearing of Channa striata larvae. The larvae at the age of 2 days after hatching (DAH) with an average initial length and weight of 6.27 ± 0.88 mm and 0.53 ± 0.01 mg, respectively, were used as the experimental biota. Larvae were randomly distributed into 16 containers, with a stocking density of 350 individuals per container. The study was conducted with four treatments, each with four replications. The larvae were co-fed Moina sp. and artificial feed at 6, 8, 10, and 12 DAH with a reduction of Moina sp. starting from 0.5% to 5.0%. The measured parameters showed the most favorable results when initiating artificial feeding at 12 DAH with survival rate of 89.52 ± 4.49%, and specific growth rate of 15.67 ± 0.25% per day with artificial feed conversion ratio of 51.79 ± 0.09. The enzyme activity and intestinal histology showed the effect of the co-feeding regime on intestinal development. Finally, the present study revealed that the weaning period for C. striata larvae could be conducted at 12–16 DAH and artificial feeding may be implemented at 17 DAH.

Vaccine development requires high-resolution, in situ, and visual adjuvant technology. To address this need, this work proposed a novel adjuvant labeling that involved indocyanine green (ICG) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) with self-assembled aluminium adjuvant (Alum), which was called BSA@ICG@Alum. This compound exhibited excellent photoacoustic properties and has been confirmed its safety, biocompatibility, high antigen binding efficiency, and superior induction of immune response. Photoacoustic tomography (PAT) tracked the distribution of Alum in lymph nodes (LNs) and lymphatic vessels in real time after diverse injection modalities. The non-invasive imaging approach revealed that BSA@ICG@Alum was transported to the draining LNs 60 min after intramuscular injection and to distal LNs within 30 min after lymph node injection. In conclusion, PAT enabled real-time three-dimensional and quantitative visualization, thus offering a powerful tool for advancing vaccine design by providing critical insights into adjuvant transport and immune system activation.

Multidrug-resistant wound infections are a global health threat and a leading cause of death, persisting despite available treatments due to antibiotic resistance, biofilms, and ineffective drug delivery systems. The aim of this study is to (i) formulate an innovative nano-drug delivery system (NDDS) based on a Carbopol nanoemulgel (NEG) co-loaded with neomycin-silver/zinc oxide nanocomposite (NC) that could fight clinical MDR and treat biofilm-forming wound pathogens through topical application, and (ii) assess its in vivo wound-healing potential. The silver/zinc oxide (Ag/ZnO) NC was synthesized by co-inoculating the metabolites of Aspergillus welwitschiae and Meyerozyma guilliermondii. The synthesized NC was then conjugated with neomycin and loaded into a Carbopol NEG for efficient topical delivery. The resulting Neo-Ag/ZnO NEG was characterized physicochemically (e.g., UV-visible [UV-Vis] spectrophotometry, field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared [FTIR] spectroscopy), biologically (e.g., in vitro antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and hemolytic activities), and pharmacologically (e.g., drug content, ex vivo drug release behavior, and in vivo wound-healing potential). The physicochemical analysis confirmed the successful mycosynthesis of the Carbopol NEG-loaded Neo-Ag/ZnO NC. SEM depicted a crystalline polyhedral shape of the small NC (average particle size of 38 nm). FTIR studies showed a slight interaction with the drug and other bioactive moieties in the Carbopol NEG. The Neo content in the Carbopol NEG was as high as 98%, and a maximum release of 81% for Neo, Ag, and ZnO ions was noticed after 12 h. The NDDS appeared hemocompatible and displayed a minimal inhibition concentration of 0.002 µg/mL with the greatest antimicrobial potential against S. aureus (an inhibition zone of 46 mm) compared to other tested wound microbes (p < 0.05). Statistically significant wound-healing activity was found for NDDS (p = 0.0001) in comparison to the control at a concentration of 100 mg/mL. The results showed that this newly developed Carbopol NEG-loaded neo-Ag/ZnO NC appeared promising for controlling resistant skin infections and boosting wound regeneration.

Background: The relationship between the physical environment and the psychosocial atmosphere of schools can have a wide-ranging impact on students' academic performance, behaviors, emotions, and relationships. Therefore, analyzing the relationship between the physical development model of schools and the improvement of the psychosocial atmosphere can assist educators and administrators in creating conducive environments for the growth and development of students. Furthermore, it is noted that in many educational settings in Iran, there is a lack of indigenous models tailored to local societal conditions for improving the psychosocial atmosphere of schools. Hence, there is a need for the development of a native and suitable model for enhancing the psychosocial atmosphere of schools. Aims: The aim of this study was to design a model for the physical development of schools to improve the psychosocial atmosphere of secondary schools. Methods: In the present study, a data-driven approach was employed. The population of the study consisted of specialists, stakeholders, and expert managers in the field of school physical development located in the first district of Ahvaz, Iran. The sample size comprised 16 individuals selected through purposive sampling method. The data collection tool was semi-structured in-depth interviews. After transcribing the interviews, the collected data were analyzed through coding, involving three stages: open, axial, and selective coding. Results: The model extracted from the analysis of the research findings in the selective coding section was designed in the form of six main themes and 13 sub-themes. Four themes, namely architectural and environmental design, safety, covered spaces, open spaces, were identified as influential contextual conditions on the central phenomenon. Two themes were created regarding the contextual conditions for creating the studied phenomenon, and four components of school culture, social communication and participation, human resources, and emotional environment were identified as intervention factors. Conclusion: The results indicate that for improving the psychological atmosphere of schools, attention to the design of the physical environment, particularly the classroom, is necessary. Based on the findings of this study, it can be suggested that education authorities, especially those responsible for school renovation, pay special attention to the issue of the school's physical environment tailored to the students' age. The architecture of the buildings and spaces of each educational level should be designed according to the spirits, age, and interests of the students.

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Abstract A global hazard to public health has been generated by the coronavirus infection 2019 (COVID-19), which is spreading quickly. Pomegranate is a strong source of antioxidants and has demonstrated a number of pharmacological characteristics. This work was aimed to analyze the phytochemicals present in ethanolic pomegranate seed extract (PSE) and their in vitro antioxidant potential and further in-silico evaluation for antiviral potential against crystal structure of two nucleocapsid proteins i.e., N-terminal RNA binding domain (NRBD) and C-terminal Domain (CTD) of SARS-CoV-2. The bioactive components from ethanolic extract of PSE were assessed by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC–MS). Free radical scavenging activity of PSE was determined using DPPH dye. Molecular docking was executed through the Glide module of Maestro software. Lipinski’s 5 rule was applied for drug-likeness characteristics using cheminformatics Molinspiration software while OSIRIS Data Warrior V5.5.0 was used to predict possible toxicological characteristics of components. Thirty-two phytocomponents was detected in PSE by GC–MS technique. Free radical scavenging assay revealed the high antioxidant capacity of PSE. Docking analysis showed that twenty phytocomponents from PSE exhibited good binding affinity (Docking score ≥ − 1.0 kcal/mol) towards NRBD and CTD nucleocapsid protein. This result increases the possibility that the top 20 hits could prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 by concentrating on both nucleocapsid proteins. Moreover, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation using GROMACS was used to check their binding efficacy and internal dynamics of top complexes with the lowest docking scores. The metrics root mean square deviation (RMSD), root mean square fluctuation (RMSF), intermolecular hydrogen bonding (H-bonds) and radius of gyration (Rg) revealed that the lead phytochemicals form an energetically stable complex with the target protein. Majority of the phytoconstituents exhibited drug-likeness with non-tumorigenic properties. Thus, the PSE phytoconstituents could be useful source of drug or nutraceutical development in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis.

Arsenic compounds are widely used for the therapeutic intervention of multiple diseases. Ancient pharmacologists discovered the medicinal utility of these highly toxic substances, and modern pharmacologists have further recognized the specific active ingredients in human diseases. In particular, Arsenic trioxide (ATO), as a main component, has therapeutic effects on various tumors (including leukemia, hepatocellular carcinoma, lung cancer, etc.). However, its toxicity limits its efficacy, and controlling the toxicity has been an important issue. Interestingly, recent evidence has pointed out the pivotal roles of arsenic compounds in phase separation and membraneless organelles formation, which may determine their toxicity and therapeutic efficacy. Here, we summarize the arsenic compounds-regulating phase separation and membraneless organelles formation. We further hypothesize their potential involvement in the therapy and toxicity of arsenic compounds, highlighting potential mechanisms underlying the clinical application of arsenic compounds.

Résumé: Cette contribution est une étude des processus de formation utilisés par les Facebookeurs algériens lors de la création de néologismes parus pendant la pandémie de Covid19. Le choix de notre sujet repose sur le fait que les réunions virtuelles, à cette époque, ont remplacé les réunions réelles devenues extrêmement rares en raison du confinement sanitaire imposé aux personnes. L’étude réalise a révélé une capacité remarquable chez ces jeunes en termes de créativité lexicale. Nous attribuons ces résultats à la coexistence de plusieurs langues qui caractérise le paysage linguistique algérien. Passer d’une langue à une autre et combiner deux ou plusieurs langues dans la même conversation sont des phénomènes plus qu’ordinaires en Algérie. Mots-clés : créativité lexicale ; néologisme; processus de formation

The purpose of this study is to investigate the transformative impact of online workshops on Algerian EFL teachers’ proficiency in teaching English for Specific Purposes (ESP) instruction. These workshops were organized in response to Algeria’s pressing need for specialized training. Therefore, the core objective of the workshops is to improve teachers’ abilities and skills in needs analysis conduct and ESP course design. Within this context, this investigation employed a quasi-experimental method, combining both quantitative and qualitative data, to evaluate the workshops influence on participants’ attitudes, confidence, and instructional strategies. Notwithstanding certain limitations, the results emphasize the revolutionary potential of specialized teacher training in ESP education. The research concludes with suggestions and recommendations for upcoming workshops highlighting the significance of striking a balance between theory and practice.

Abstract Groundwater quality assessment is crucial for the sustainable management of water resources in arid regions, where groundwater is the primary source of water supply and increasing demand raises concerns. The study area in Southwest Algeria relies heavily on groundwater as a source of water supply, and the increasing demand for freshwater raises concerns about the quality of groundwater. To assess the hydrochemical characteristics and water quality of groundwater in the Ain Sefra region, multivariate statistical methods, geochemical modeling and water quality indices were employed. The study revealed that the groundwater samples could be classified into four water groups using hierarchical cluster analysis Q mode (HCA), namely Ca–Mg–HCO3, Ca–Mg–Cl–SO4, Ca–SO4 and Na–Cl. Factor analysis was used to identify the main factors controlling the study area’s hydrochemical processes. The results indicated that water–rock interaction, reverse ion exchange and anthropogenic pollution were the main hydrochemical processes affecting groundwater chemistry. The water quality index indicated that the groundwater was suitable for human consumption, with only 2.32% of the samples being unsuitable. Additionally, the groundwater was suitable for agricultural use, but salinity control was necessary. The saturation index values showed that the groundwater was supersaturated with aragonite, calcite, dolomite, anhydrite and gypsum, and undersaturated with halite. Ca-smectite, Mg-smectite and kaolinite were identified as the primary processes controlling the chemical composition of groundwater. The application of multivariate statistical methods, geochemical modeling and water quality indices provided a comprehensive understanding of the hydrochemical characteristics and water quality of groundwater in the Ain Sefra region. The findings of the study can serve as a useful basis for future studies on groundwater quality assessment in the region.

Due to its good reliability, high modularity, zero-sequence current (ZSC) path, and lower size and cost, the parallel four-leg source voltage inverter’s topology is a perfect choice for many power applications, including renewable power generation-based stand-alone power-supply systems (SAPSSs). However, the major concern associated with this topology is the presence of a zero-sequence circulating current (ZSCC) that circulates between the phase legs of these inverters when the inverters operate under unbalanced current sharing or unbalanced output-filter parameters, which leads to multiple consequences, including output current distortion, power losses, and system stability degradation, as well as impacting the efficiency, reliability, and operational lifespan of the system. The ZSCC model demonstrates that the ZSCC amplitude is linked to the filter inductance and difference between zero-sequence duty ratios or zero-sequence voltages (ZSVs). Considering these facts, we propose a new modified three-dimensional space vector pulse width modulation (3DSVPWM) methodology to suppress ZSCC and its effects on the current quality, efficiency, reliability, and operational lifespan of the parallel system. The suggested strategy aims to eliminate the difference between ZSVs by adjusting the zero-vector duty ratios in each switching period. This adjustment keeps the ZSCC constant at zero with minimal oscillations and switching losses, thereby improving the output current quality, particularly in mitigating the $3^{\mathrm {rd}}$ harmonic and its multiples, and enhancing the system’s efficiency, reliability, and operational lifespan. The proposed method offers the advantages of being suitable for suppressing both the ZSCC and ZSC and not impacting the control purposes or the system’s output quality. The efficiency and performance of the designed method are validated through various Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tests under different conditions using the OPAL-RT-OP5700 real-time simulator.

Abstract Fungal infections of skin including mycoses are one of the most common infections in skin or skins. Mycosis is caused by dermatophytes, non-dermatophyte moulds and yeasts. Various studies show different drugs to treat mycoses, yet there is need to treat it with applied drugs delivery. This study was designed to prepare a bio curcumin (CMN) nanoemulsion (CMN-NEs) for transdermal administration to treat mycoses. The self-nanoemulsification approach was used to prepare a nanoemulsion (NE), utilizing an oil phase consisting of Cremophor EL 100 (Cre EL), glyceryl monooleate (GMO), and polyethylene glycol 5000 (PEG 5000). Particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential (ZP), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometric analysis, and morphological analyses were performed to evaluate the nanoemulsion (NE). The in vitro permeation of CMN was investigated using a modified vertical diffusion cell with an activated dialysis membrane bag. Among all the formulations, a stable, spontaneously produced nanoemulsion was determined with 250 mg of CMN loaded with 10 g of the oil phase. The average droplet size, ZP, and PDI of CMN-NEs were 90.0 ± 2.1 nm, − 7.4 ± 0.4, and 0.171 ± 0.03 mV, respectively. The release kinetics of CMN differed from zero order with a Higuchi release profile as a result of nanoemulsification, which also significantly increased the flux of CMN permeating from the hydrophilic matrix gel. Overall, the prepared nanoemulsion system not only increased the permeability of CMN but also protected it against chemical deterioration. Both CMN-ME (24.0 ± 0.31 mm) and CMN-NE gel (29.6 ± 0.25 mm) had zones of inhibition against Candida albicans that were significantly larger than those of marketed Itrostred gel (21.5 ± 0.34 mm). The prepared CMN-NE improved the bioavailability, better skin penetration, and the CMN-NE gel enhanced the release of CMN from the gel matrix on mycotic patients.

This research study’s objective was to formulate interpenetrating pH-sensitive polymeric networks interpenetrating networks (IPNs) based on hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC)/Primojel for use in the treatment of various malignant conditions. For controlled release, letrozole (LTZ) was selected as a model drug in HPMC and Primojel-based IPN hydrogels. HPMC and Primojel based IPN hydrogels were fabricated through the free radical polymerization method by utilizing HPMC and Primojel as polymers, methacrylic acid as monomer, ammonium persulfate as initiator, and methylenebisacrylamide as cross-linker. For structural characterization, various techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), DSC, TGA, and Powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD) were applied to IPN samples. In vitro and swelling studies were also employed to observe the response of these polymeric networks against 1.2 and 7.4 pH. TGA and DSC of an optimized loaded formulation possess better thermal stability as compared to individual drug. PXRD depicted minor crystallinity and a significant amorphous nature. SEM images show that polymeric networks possess an uneven and porous surface. Significant swelling and enhanced in-vitro outcomes at a high pH of 7.4 confirmed the IPN pH responsive properties. Toxicological studies performed on rabbits revealed no harm in the results. Thus, IPN based on HPMC/Primojel was successfully synthesized and can be used for LTZ’s controlled release.