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The current study investigates the impact of an educational program based on cognitive neuroscience on developing reading comprehension skills among second-grade students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. To achieve this objective, the researchers employed a quasi-experimental design, selecting a sample of 59 students from Princess Nora bint Abdulrahman Al Saud School for Girls and AlMadinah Al-Jamia Educational School for Boys, both under the supervision of the Education Directorate in Najran region. The sample was divided into two groups: 30 students in the experimental group and 29 in the control group. The researchers developed two instruments: a cognitive neuroscience-based educational program and a written test. After ensuring their validity and reliability, these instruments were administered to the study participants. The results revealed statistically significant differences in favor of the experimental group, while no significant differences were found based on gender or the interaction between gender and group. In light of the results, the researchers provided a set of recommendations.

E-learning tools technology is a paradigm shift in facilitating learning in our world today and the driving force of education in developed countries. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the accessibility and utilization of E-learning tools for teaching biology in secondary schools in Ilorin metropolis. The study was guided by the technology acceptance model theory, and employed a descriptive survey design. The population of the study were all biology teachers in public secondary schools in Ilorin metropolis. The sample size was determined from the estimate of the target population which is 368. The sample size for this study was 250 respondents from 100 public secondary schools. A well-structured questionnaire was the instrument. The data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings showed lack of access and low or non-utilization of E-learning tools for teaching biology in public secondary schools in Ilorin metropolis while factors observed to be responsible for the findings are low or lack of awareness on the part of teachers, poor policy formulation to incorporate the use of e-learning tools and poor infrastructure in the schools.

Ruxolitinib reduces spleen volume, improves symptoms, and increases survival in patients with intermediate- or high-risk myelofibrosis. However, suboptimal response may occur, potentially because of signaling via the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B pathway. This phase 2 study evaluated dosing, efficacy, and safety of add-on PI3Kδ inhibitor parsaclisib for patients with primary or secondary myelofibrosis with suboptimal response to ruxolitinib. Eligible patients remained on a stable ruxolitinib dose and received add-on parsaclisib 10 or 20 mg, once daily for 8 weeks, and once weekly thereafter (daily-to-weekly dosing; n = 32); or parsaclisib 5 or 20 mg, once daily for 8 weeks, then 5 mg once daily thereafter (all-daily dosing; n = 42). Proportion of patients achieving a ≥10% decrease in spleen volume at 12 weeks was 28% for daily-to-weekly dosing and 59.5% for all-daily dosing. Proportions of patients achieving ≥50% decrease at week 12 in Myelofibrosis Symptom Assessment Form and Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Symptom Assessment Form symptom scores were 14% and 18% for daily-to-weekly dosing, and 28% and 32% for all-daily dosing, respectively. Most common nonhematologic treatment-emergent adverse events were nausea (23%), diarrhea (22%), abdominal pain and fatigue (each 19%), and cough and dyspnea (each 18%). New-onset grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia were observed in 19% of patients, each dosed daily-to-weekly, and in 26% and 7% of patients dosed all-daily, respectively, managed with dose interruptions. Hemoglobin levels remained steady. The addition of parsaclisib to stable-dose ruxolitinib can reduce splenomegaly and improve symptoms, with manageable toxicity in patients with myelofibrosis with suboptimal response to ruxolitinib. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02718300.

Abstract Background Interferon-induced helicase C domain-containing protein 1 (IFIH1) is one of the main pattern recognition receptors that sense viral RNA and activate host cells to mount an effective antiviral immunity. Methods A case–control study (90 patients with mild/moderate COVID-19 and 90 matched controls) was performed to explore the association of two variants of the IFIH1 gene with COVID-19 risk using the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase-chain-reaction method. The first is a missense variant, rs1990760 C/T, and the second is an intergenic variant, rs2111485 A/G. In addition, serum IFIH1 levels were assessed using an ELISA kit. Results Mutant alleles (T and G, respectively) and corresponding homozygous genotypes (TT and GG, respectively) of both variants were significantly associated with increased risk of COVID-19. IFIH1 levels were significantly higher in patients compared to controls and were favorably affected by the rs1990760 and rs2111485 mutant-type genotypes. Conclusion IFIH1 protein showed up-regulated levels in the serum of patients with mild/moderate COVID-19. In addition, the IFIH1 gene variants rs1990760 C/T and rs2111485 A/G were associated with susceptibility to COVID-19, and the study suggests that their mutant-type genotypes are not only associated with increased risk of COVID-19 but also contributed to higher serum IFIH1 levels.

Medical research plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of various aspects related to health, including disease, risk factors, and patient management. However, the interpretation of research data becomes intricate when considering the notions of statistical significance and clinical relevance. It is not uncommon to interpret findings that demonstrate statistical significance as indicative of clinical relevance. To explain it in a more straightforward way, statistical significance, ascertained through statistical tests using the P value, indicates that an observed difference or association is improbable to occur by chance alone. Conversely, clinical relevance focuses on the practical implications of a finding in real-world contexts and determines whether an observed difference or relationship holds practical meaning. Recently, there have been issues and debates surrounding the idea of statistical significance as certain experts argue that its mathematical representation can be misleading when it comes to practical understanding. These experts propose the inclusion of additional measures like effect sizes and confidence intervals. A sound comprehension of both statistical and clinical dimensions is vital in order to ensure precise interpretation of data and facilitate well-informed decision-making in the practice of medicine. By doing so, it positively influences the health of individuals and communities.

Introduction: The relationship between obesity and dental caries in adults presents inconsistent findings in current literature, which necessitates further research to clarify this relationship. This study aimed to examine the association between obesity and dental caries in adults using a nationally representative sample. Methods: This study employed data of US adults aged > 20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) pre-pandemic cycle. Obesity was defined using the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference. Dental caries were assessed using the Decayed, Missing, Filled Teeth (DMFT) scores. Results: Most participants were categorized as individuals with obesity based on the WHR (74.5%) or BMI (72.7%). A significant difference in the DMFT scores and missing teeth was observed between individuals with normal weight and individuals with obesity. After adjusting for the sociodemographic variables, individuals with obesity had a 0.11 higher DMFT score (95% CI: -0.01–0.23). A significant association was observed between the WHR and DMFT scores when age was excluded from the model, demonstrating a higher coefficient of 0.17 (95% CI: 0.05–0.30). Conclusions: A positive association was observed between obesity and dental caries in the US adult population. However, age was found to be a confounding factor in this relationship. This study highlights the relationship between oral and general health, advocating healthcare providers for an integrated health promotion strategy, through comprehensive campaigns addressing obesity, diet, lifestyle, and dental health, aiming for raising awareness and a more effective public health strategy.

Electroless nickel phosphor coating is an important technology in the field of industrial coatings which is widely used in many technical applications. The electroless nickel phosphorus layer has high hardness and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for multiple applications for example, automotive, aerospace and electronics industries. Sulfuric acid is an essential agent in many industrial processes. The corrosive and abrasive nature of sulfuric acid results in rapid wear of mechanical parts, resulting in frequent replacement, increased maintenance costs, and may cause environmental and safety issues. This work employed electroless Ni-P coating, which was effectively assigned to mechanical seal models. The Taguchi design array L9 was used to conduct the experimental work. Mechanical properties such as Vickers hardness and wear rate were measured at different heat treatment temperature, coating time and coating bath temperature. The coating thickness was measured using an optical microscope. The results showed that the hardness increased reaching peak as 653 HV at 400C° and coating time 4 hours. As for wear resistance, it was recorded the lowest value as 0.00060 under same conditions. Through SEM and XRD, the formation of NiP and Ni3P were found. ANOVA demonstrated that heat treatment temperature was the most effected factor that contributed to enhance both hardness and wear resistance, followed by coating time.

Background: Hypothyroidism is a significant contributor to complications in various metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Thyroid hormones, including lipids, play a crucial role in macromolecule metabolism. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a key marker for cardiovascular diseases and hypothyroidism independently. This study aimed to evaluate serum high-sensitivity CRP (Hs-CRP) levels, lipid profiles, and their relationship with thyroid hormones in patients with hypothyroidism compared to a control group. Methods: This case-control study included 90 participants (45 hypothyroid patients and 45 healthy controls). Blood samples were collected, centrifuged to separate serum, and analyzed using commercial kits. ELISA measured T3, T4, TSH, and Hs-CRP, while TG, HDL, LDL, VLDL, and total cholesterol were measured by spectroscopy. Results: The findings revealed higher Hs-CRP levels in hypothyroid patients compared to controls, although not statistically significant (P-value = 0.09). Hs-CRP positively correlated with TSH, T3, and TG but negatively correlated with T4, total cholesterol, VLDL, and HDL in hypothyroid subjects. These correlations were only significant between Hs-CRP and TG and Hs-CRP and LDL (P-value < 0.05). Conclusion: The positive correlation between Hs-CRP and TSH in hypothyroidism highlights a potential link between hypothyroidism and cardiovascular diseas.

AIM: To determine and compare clinico-sociodemographic profiles of primary open angle glaucoma(POAG)with non-glaucoma eye patients in Gwagwalada, Nigeria.METHODS:A cross-sectional comparative study. A total of 235 adult patients including 96 with POAG and 139 non-glaucoma were included. General characteristics such as age, gender, education, vocation, ethnicity, family history of glaucoma, ocular itching, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension were recorded. Ocular examinations included visual acuity, central visual field, cup disc ratio, anterior chamber angle assessment, and intraocular pressure.RESULTS:Mean age was 49.88+13.75 years and 114(48.5%)were males. Patients with POAG comprised 42 ethnics with Igbo(24/96, 25.0%)and Yoruba(20/96, 20.8%)being most common. Most POAG(74/96, 77.1%)were in the age range 40-69. The POAG(73/96, 76.0%)had varied visual impairment. The POAG versus non-glaucoma as follows: positive family history of glaucoma(34/96, 35.4%)vs (25/139, 18.0%; P=0.012); history of diabetes mellitus(8/96, 8.3%)vs(6/139, 4.3%); hypertension(24/96, 25.0%)vs(28/139, 20.1%); combined diabetes mellitus and hypertension(1/96, 1.0%)vs(4/139, 2.9%; P=0.268); antidiabetic drugs(5/96, 5.2%)vs(7/139, 5.0%); antihypertensives drugs(24/96, 25.0%)vs(23/139, 16.5%); combined antidiabetic and antihypertensive drugs(4/96, 4.2%)vs(5/139, 3.6%; P=0.328); ocular itching(18/96, 18.7%)vs(37/139, 26.6%; P=0.328); visual impairment [right eye(RE):51/96, 53.1%; left eye(LE):60/96, 62.5%] vs(RE:40/139, 28.7%; LE:37/139, 26.6%; P=0.000); vertical cup disc ratio>0.4(RE: 96/96, 100.0%; LE:96/96, 100.0%)vs(RE:131/139, 94.2%; LE:124/139, 89.2%)(RE: P=0.307; LE: P=0.006); intraocular pressure >22 mmHg(RE: 17/96, 17.7%; LE: 22/96, 22.9%)vs(RE: 2/139, 1.4%; LE: 2/139, 1.4%; P=0.006). Most POAG(60/96, 62.5%)were on antiglaucoma drugs and(23/96, 24.0%)were yet to commence medication(P=0.000). Many POAG(32/96, 33.3%)were on combination antiglaucoma drugs of beta blockers, prostaglandin inhibitors and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.CONCLUSION:Glaucoma has distinguishing clinico-sociodemographic features from other eye conditions. Many participants affirmed family history of glaucoma, and most glaucoma participants were on antiglaucoma treatment. The visual impairment including blindness was significantly associated with glaucoma. The study affirmed open angle glaucoma was associated with high cup-disc ratio and high intra ocular pressure.

Creating and testing a biometric key is a critical process used for security and identity verification .When using biometric traits such as fingerprints, facial features, iris patterns, earprints, and voice patterns, a unique key is created and linked to the individual's biometric identity. These biometrics provide inherent uniqueness, resulting in a higher level of security compared to traditional methods. In addition, biometric authentication eliminates the need for users to memorize complex passwords or carry physical tokens, thus enhancing convenience and user experience. Iris recognition systems have received significant attention in biometrics for their ability to provide robust criteria for identifying individuals, thanks to the rich texture of the iris. In this research, the key generation process was created by converting biometrics (the iris) into a digital representation (a set of binary numbers from the two iris) that can be used in the encryption process. This is done by using digital image processing algorithms to extract unique features from the two irises. After the key is generated, it is tested using random metrics. If the key meets the criteria, it is random otherwise the key will be generated again.

Abstract Off-line leachate collection from agricultural landscapes cannot guarantee precise evaluation of agricultural non-point source (ANPS) due to geospatial variations, time, and transportation from the field to the laboratory. Implementing an in-situ nitrogen and phosphorous monitoring system with a robust photochemical flow analysis is imperative for precision agriculture, enabling real-time intervention to minimize non-point source pollution and overcome the limitations posed by conventional analysis in laboratory. A reliable, robust and in-situ approach was proposed to monitor nitrogen and phosphorous for determining ANPS pollution. In this study, a home-made porous ceramic probe and the frequency domain reflectometer (FDR) based water content sensors were strategically placed at different soil depths to facilitate the collection of leachates. These solutions were subsequently analyzed by in-situ photochemical flow analysis monitoring system built across the field to estimate the concentrations of phosphorus and nitrogen. After applying both natural and artificial irrigation to the agricultural landscape, at least 10 mL of soil leachates was consistently collected using the porous ceramic probe within 20 min, regardless of the depth of the soil layers when the volumetric soil water contents are greater than 19%. The experimental results showed that under different weather conditions and irrigation conditions, the soil water content of 50 cm and 90 cm below the soil surface was 19.58% and 26.08%, respectively. The average concentrations of NH4 +-N, NO3 −-N, PO4 3− are 0.584 mg/L, 15.7 mg/L, 0.844 mg/L, and 0.562 mg/L, 16.828 mg/L and 0.878 mg/L at depths of 50 cm and 90 cm below the soil surface, respectively. Moreover, the comparison with conventional laboratory spectroscopic analysis confirmed R2 values of 0.9951, 0.9943, 0.9947 average concentration ranges of NH4 +-N, NO3 −-N, and PO4 3−, showcasing the accuracy and reliability of robust photochemical flow analysis in-situ monitoring system. The suggested monitoring system can be helpful in the assessment of soil nutrition for precision agriculture.

Background: long-term exposure of skin to sun (UV light) may produce different dermatological changes. The aim of this experiment is to explore the protective effects of oral vitamin A on skin subjected to UVB. Methods: twenty rats were separated into: group 1 (without UVB exposure), group 2 (exposed to single daily increasing dose of UVB for one week), group 3 (exposed to UVB with oral daily administration of vit A 10000 IU for one week), group 4 (received vit A for one week). The daily doses of UVB were respectively 0.24, 0.36, 0.48, 0.6, 0.72, 0.84 and 0.96 J/cm2. Skin samples were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and Masson’s trichrome stains, in addition to Melan-A stain for melanocytes. Results: histopathological results in skin of group 2 demonstrated loss of normal architecture with increase in thickness of epidermis, hyperkeratosis and parakeratosis, moreover, skin sections detected increased number of inflammatory cells with damaged hair follicles. The basal layer shows an increase in mitotic division and necrosis, besides, epidermal edema and vascular congestion. Furthermore, collagen fibers were degraded. Immunohistochemical reaction revealed intense positive expression of Melan-A with increased proliferation and activity of melanocytes, while sections of groups 1 and 4 show normal healthy skin and negative Melan-A expression. In contrast, skin of group 3 reveals mild hyperkeratosis with normal keratin layer, in addition, the infiltration of inflammatory cells was dropped and hair follicles were preserved. Collagen bundles were slightly degraded with normal arrangement. Immunohistochemical results of this group show mild positive expression of Melan A. Conclusion: oral administration of vitamin A decreases the toxic effect of UVB radiation on skin and reduces its induced pigmentation.

Background: An appraisal of the profile of ophthalmic surgeries performed at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital (LAUTECHTH), Ogbomosho, Nigeria over a seven-year period with a view to harnessing their potentials for maximising ophthalmic experiences of medical students. Methods: A retrospective review of ophthalmic surgery records over a seven-year period (2013–2019) at LAUTECHTH. Results: There were 386 eye surgeries, mean ophthalmic surgeries: 4–5/month or 55/year. Most (329, 85.2 %) surgeries were performed on individuals aged at least 45 (range 10–95) years with slight male dominance (1.1:1). The most common indication for surgery was cataract (307, 79.6 %). Most surgeries were elective (362, 93.8 %) and performed under local anaesthesia (367, 95.1 %). Despite the highest number of surgeries being performed in the months of April and September; and lowest during the months of May and October; there was fair distribution across and over the years. Small incision cataract surgery with or without intraocular lens implant (307, 79.6 %) was the most common surgery followed by pterygium excision with adjuvant therapy (37, 9.6 %). Conclusion: The study showed a broad spectrum of eye surgeries, including cataract and pterygium, performed at the teaching hospital, encompassing common conditions that lead to visual impairment or blindness. This exposure provides valuable training opportunities for undergraduate medical students to become physicians especially those aspiring to become ophthalmologists. However, there is a need to increase the overall volume of eye surgeries to enhance the learning experience and potentially influence career choices.

Artificial intelligence (AI) literacy is a crucial aspect of media and information literacy (MIL), regarded not only as a human right but also as a fundamental requirement for societal advancement and stability. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive, cross-border perspective on AI literacy levels by surveying 1,800 university students from four Asian and African nations. The findings revealed significant disparities in AI literacy levels based on nationality, scientific specialization, and academic degrees, while age and gender did not show notable impacts. Malaysian participants scored significantly higher on the AI literacy scale than individuals from other countries. The results indicated that various demographic and academic factors influenced respondents’ perceptions of AI and their inclination to utilize it. Nationality and academic degree were identified as the most influential factors, followed by scientific specialization, with age and gender exerting a lesser influence. The study highlights the necessity of focusing research efforts on the detailed dimensions of the AI literacy scale and examining the effects of previously untested intervening variables. Additionally, it advocates for assessing AI literacy levels across different societal segments and developing the appropriate measurements.

Background. Little is known about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Qatar. The lack of consensus in ASD screening has led to differences in the reported prevalence with escalating rates over time. Objective(s). To screen for ASD and to identify associate factors among Qatary children aged 18 to 48 months. Methods. A cross-sectional study included 600 eligible children at 10 Primary Health Care Centers (PHCCs) in Qatar. Identification of ASD was based on the M-CHAT™ criteria. Results. The number of ASD screen-positive children in the M-CHAT™ was 25.13 per 10.000, and was significantly associated with older maternal age (10.5%) and history of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (20.0%) [AOR] = 4.88; 95%[CI]: 1.50-16.30)]. The Odds of detecting ASD was lower in children below 2 years of age (AOR = 0.92; 95% CI: 0.87-0.98]). Conclusion. This study demonstrates the utility of M-CHAT™ for ASD screening in PHCCs. Identification of the factors associated with positive ASD screening can highlight areas suitable for future intervention.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) marked by persistent inflammation of the mucosal lining of the large intestine, leading to debilitating symptoms and reduced quality of life. Emerging evidence suggests that an imbalance of the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in UC pathogenesis, and various signaling pathways are implicated in the dysregulated immune response. Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, have attracted significant attention for their potential to restore gut microbial balance and ameliorate inflammation in UC. Recent studies have elucidated the mechanisms by which probiotics modulate these signaling pathways, often by producing anti-inflammatory molecules and promoting regulatory immune cell function. For example, probiotics can inhibit the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway by stabilizing Inhibitor of kappa B alpha (IκBα), dampening the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Similarly, probiotics can modulate the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway, suppressing the activation of STAT1 and STAT3 and thus reducing the inflammatory response. A better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of probiotics in modulating pathogenic signaling pathways in UC will pave the way for developing more effective probiotic-based therapies. In this review, we explore the mechanistic role of probiotics in the attenuation of pathogenic signaling pathways, including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), Wnt/β-catenin, the nucleotide-binding domain (NOD)-, leucine-rich repeat (LRR)- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, Toll-like receptors (TLRs), interleukin-23 (IL-23)/IL-17 signaling pathway in UC.

The presented work addresses the growing need for efficient and reliable DC microgrids integrating renewable energy sources. However, for the sake of practicality, implementing complex control strategies can increase system complexity. Thus, efficient methodologies are required to provide efficient energy management of microgrids while increasing the integration of renewable energy sources. The primary contribution of this work is to investigate the issues related to operating a DC microgrid with conventional control designed to power DC motors using readily available, non-advanced control strategies with the objective of achieving stable and reliable grid performance without resorting to complex control schemes. The proposed microgrid integrates a combination of uncontrollable renewable distributed generators (DGs) alongside controllable DGs and energy storage systems, including batteries and supercapacitors, connected via DC links. The Incremental Conductance (InCond) algorithm is employed for maximum power point tracking to maximize power output from the PV system. The energy management strategy prioritizes the solar system as the primary source, with the battery and supercapacitor acting as backup power sources to ensure overall system reliability and sustainability. The effectiveness of the microgrid under various operating conditions is evaluated through extensive simulations conducted using MATLAB. These simulations explore different power generation scenarios, including normal operation with varying load levels and operation under Standard Test Conditions (STC). Moreover, fault analysis of the DC microgrid is performed to examine system reliability. The system performance is evaluated using real-time simulation software (OPAL-RT) to validate the effectiveness of the approach under real-time conditions. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the efficacy of operating a DC microgrid with conventional controllers, ensuring grid stability and reliability across various operating conditions and fault scenarios while prioritizing the use of renewable energy sources. The results illustrated that system efficiency increases with load, but fault tolerance measures, can introduce trade-offs between reliability and peak efficiency.

The incomplete combustion of fossil fuels results in the emission of soot, a carbonaceous, solid fine powder that causes harm to human health and the environment. This study compares multiple linear regression (MLR) with three different machine learning (ML) models for predicting the threshold sooting index (TSI), a commonly employed index for measuring the sooting propensity of fuels. The dataset used for model development consists of experimental TSI data for 342 fuels, including various chemical classes, including oxygenated components like ethers and alcohols. Ten input features were employed, comprising eight functionalities, molecular weight, and the branching index (BI). These parameters used as input features have been demonstrated to affect fuels' physical and thermochemical properties. The ML models employed in this study are support vector regression with Nu parameter (NuSVR), extra trees regression (ETR), and extreme gradient boosting regression (XGBR). The models were trained, validated, and tested using randomly split datasets, with 56 % for training, 14 % for validation, and 30 % for testing. The accuracy of the MLR, NuSVR, ETR, and XGBR models for the entire dataset was 91 %, 96 %, 98 %, and 96 %, respectively. The mean absolute errors (MAE) of prediction were 3.4, 0.022, 0.011, and 0.028 for MLR, NuSVR, ETR, and XGBR respectively. These results highlight the effectiveness of the ML models in making predictions, with error levels similar to the uncertainties observed in experimental measurements. The developed ML models have been validated to ensure generalizability and can be used to predict petroleum fuels' TSI.