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Purpose: The purpose of this study is to analyze the two-dimensional blood flow in the artery slant from the axis at an angle with mild stenosis under the joint effects of the electro-osmotic, magnetic field, chemical reaction and porosity using a new analytical method. In addition, the mathematical model presented by the researchers Tripathi and Sharma (2018c) was successfully developed by adding the effect of electro-osmosis and studying the impact of the new addition in the developed model on blood flow. Design/methodology/approach: A new analytical method was used to find the analytical approximate solutions of two-dimensional blood flow in artery slant from the axis at an angle with mild stenosis. This technique is based on integrating the Akbari-Ganji and the homotopy perturbation methods. Findings: The results of axial velocity, concentration, temperature and the wall shear stress for blood flow were analyzed in the cases of the absence and presence of electro-osmosis. Furthermore, in these two states of electro-osmosis, a contour plot was created to show the difference in the profile of velocity to the flow of blood when the magnetic field was increased and the altitude of stenosis was increased. The results showed that the new technique is effective and has high accuracy to determine the analytical approximate solutions of two-dimensional blood flow in artery slant from the axis at an angle with mild stenosis. The validity, utility and necessity of the new method were illustrated from the graphs of the new solutions; in addition, there is an excellent agreement with the results of previous studies. Originality/value: This paper focuses on developing the mathematical model which was presented by the researchers Tripathi and Sharma (2018c), by adding the effect of the electro-osmosis to it, which has been successfully developed. According to the authors' modest information, the new system has not been studied before. This current problem is solved by using an innovative approach known as the Akbari-Ganji homotopy perturbation method (AGHPM) which has not been used before in two cases: the presence and absence of the effect of electro-osmosis. This new technique afford new with effective and has high accuracy results. Furthermore, the new study (i.e. adding effect of electro-osmosis) with the applications of (variable viscosity, magnetic field, chemical reaction and porosity) illustrated the importance of applying electro-osmosis and how doctors can benefit from it during surgeries through proper use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Thompson Seedless (Sultanina) seedless variety of grapes is an important crop in Egypt, both for local consumption and export. In recent years, the H4 strain of this grape variety has gained popularity due to its high productivity. However, a drawback of this strain is that the grape clusters become densely packed, resulting in small berries and reduced overall quality. A study was conducted to investigate the impact of pruning severity and bud load on the growth, yield, and quality of H4 grapes. The study included several different treatments, namely T1 Control: (10 canes × 12 buds), T2: (8 canes × 6 buds), T3: (8 canes × 8 buds), T4: (8 canes × 10 buds), T5: (8 canes × 12 buds), T6: (6 canes × 13 buds), T7: (8 canes × 13 buds), T8: (10 canes × 13 buds), and T9: (12 canes × 13 buds). The behavior of the buds, vegetative growth, yield, and quality of the grapes were analyzed. The results showed that pruning of the H4 strain with either 8 canes and 10–12 buds per cane, or 6 canes with 13 buds, produced the best results in terms of managing excessive fruit production, achieving a balance between vegetative growth and yield, and improving the physical and chemical characteristics of the grape clusters and berries. Overall, maintaining 8 canes with 10–12 buds per cane or 6 canes with 13 buds is recommended for obtaining maximum crop yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate is one of the most important and widely distributed trees. Boron and zinc are important nutrients for plant growth and fruit quality. Nanotechnology has emerged as one of the most innovative scientific fields in agriculture. This study was conducted to describe the changes in the physiochemical characteristics (weight, diameter, length, firmness and color), as well as the phytochemicals attributes (total phenolics, total flavonoids, ascorbic acid, anthocyanin and antioxidant %) and minerals contents, of pomegranates fruits of the 'Wonderful' cultivar as a result of spraying pomegranate trees using nanomaterials (zinc oxide (ZnONPs) and boron oxide (B2O3NPs)). In three successive developmental stages (full bloom, 6 weeks after full bloom and one month before harvest time), the trees were sprayed with 0.25, 0.5 and 1 g/L ZnONPs, as well as 0.25, 0.5 and 1 g/L B2O3NPs during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. The application of ZnONPs and B2O3NPs influenced the qualitative characteristics of the fruits in the studied seasons. The highest marketable % was observed for the 0.50 and 1 g/L ZnONPs and 1 g/L B2O3NPs compared to the other treatments. Also, a positive effect was recorded for the ZnONPs and B2O3NPs on the fruits' physical properties. All of the ZnONP and B2O3NP treatments resulted in increasing the total phenolic, flavonoid, anthocyanin and ascorbic acid contents and the antioxidant activity in the pomegranate juices. In conclusion, our results suggest that spraying pomegranate trees with ZnONPs and B2O3NPs improves the marketable fruit, enhances the fruit quality and increases the bioactive components and antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of a magnetic field on two‐dimensional pulsatile blood flow in tapered stenosis arteries was studied by employing the Yang transform homotopy perturbation method (YTHPM). The mathematical model which was solved by the researchers Liu and Liu, was successfully developed by adding the effect of a magnetic field for the blood flow in addition to the effect of mass and heat transfer on it. The impact of the angle of tapering, the Grashof number, the solutal Grashof number, and the magnetic field on the axial velocity, the wall shear stress, flow resistance, and the volumetric flow rate was investigated in two cases absence and presence of the magnetic field. The results prove that YTHPM is efficacious and highly accurate in finding the analytical approximate solution for pulsatile blood flow in tapered stenosis arteries under the influence of a magnetic field. The convergence of the new solutions is also discussed in the absence and presence of the magnetic field. Further, the graphs of these new solutions show the validity of, a necessity for, and utility of YTHPM, and are in line with results put forward by other studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Arab Emirates is moving towards the use of renewable energy for many reasons, including the country's high energy consumption, unstable oil prices, and increasing carbon dioxide emissions. The usage of electric vehicles can improve public health and reduce emissions that contribute to climate change. Thus, the usage of renewable energy resources to meet the demands of electric vehicles is the major challenge influencing the development of an optimal smart system that can satisfy energy requirements, enhance sustainability and reduce negative environmental impacts. The objective of this study was to examine different configurations of hybrid renewable energy systems for electric vehicle charging in Abu Dhabi city, UAE. A comprehensive study was conducted to investigate previous electric vehicle charging approaches and formulate the problem accordingly. Subsequently, methods for acquiring data with respect to the energy input and load profiles were determined, and a techno-economic analysis was performed using Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) software. The results demonstrated that the optimal electric vehicle charging model comprising solar photovoltaics, wind turbines, batteries and a distribution grid was superior to the other studied configurations from the technical, economic and environmental perspectives. An optimal model could produce excess electricity of 22,006 kWh/year with an energy cost of 0.06743 USD/kWh. Furthermore, the proposed battery–grid–solar photovoltaics–wind turbine system had the highest renewable penetration and thus reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 384 tons/year. The results also indicated that the carbon credits associated with this system could result in savings of 8786.8 USD/year. This study provides new guidelines and identifies the best indicators for electric vehicle charging systems that will positively influence the trend in carbon dioxide emissions and achieve sustainable electricity generation. This study also provides a valid financial assessment for investors looking to encourage the use of renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new method is suggested and implemented to find an analytical approximate solution for a non‐Newtonian viscoelastic fluid flow on the turbine disk, used to cool the axisymmetric channel that has a porous wall. The new method depends on combining the algorithms of Yang transform and the homotopy perturbation method (HPM) named Yang transformation–homotopy perturbation method (YTHPM). To ensure the correctness of the method, we compared the results of YTHPM with the ones obtained by the numerical method (Runge–Kutta 4th order) and by other methods as reported in the literature; a good agreement was observed. Additionally, the effect of the power‐law index, Prandtl and Reynolds numbers on the velocity, and heat transfer was studied. The results that we obtained by using the new method confirm that this method has high accuracy and efficiency compared with other methods, used to find the analytical approximate solution for the current problem. Furthermore, the graphs and tables of error show the validity, utility, and necessity of this method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to determine caregivers' perspectives on difficulties encountered while seeking care for adolescents with sickle cell disease (SCD). It explored the social, emotional, and financial impact of caring for an adolescent with SCD on their caregivers. Study design: A mixed-method study in a major tertiary care hospital in Bahrain was conducted between June and August 2019. Cross-sectional questionnaires and thematic analyzed interviews were performed with 101 and 18 Bahraini caregivers of adolescents with SCD (aged 10–18 years), respectively. Results: Lack of parking lots (52.5%) and traffic jams (27%) were identified as the most common challenges in seeking hospital care for adolescents with SCD. These difficulties, including prolonged waiting in the emergency room, discouraged more than half of the caregivers who preferred to seek care from smaller healthcare centers. Most caregivers reported receiving a high degree of support from their families, who emotionally encouraged them to facilitate patient care (73.3%). Therefore, their relationships with their friends, colleagues, and relatives were not significantly affected. Catastrophic health expenditure occurred in 14.8% of caregivers. Qualitative themes that emerged were A) the intricacy of caring for adolescents with SCD, B) dissatisfaction with hospital facilities, and C) insufficient healthcare services, wherein caregivers reported adolescents' experiences with services during hospital visits. Subthemes for the intricacy of caring for adolescents with SCD were 1) the psychological tragedy, summarizing the initial caregivers' feelings after the confirmed diagnosis, 2) caregiving hardships that described the caregivers' emotional and health burden while accepting and adjusting to the disease, and 3) the cost of care on families, which highlights the financial burden of the disease on families. Conclusion: The caregivers of adolescents with SCD experienced several overwhelming challenges, including problems in accessing healthcare and receiving medical services, in addition to influences on the emotional, financial, and social aspects of their lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel tellurium(IV), tantalum(V), selenium(IV), and niobium(V) urate complexes were prepared with molar ratios 1:1 and 2:1 (metal:ligand). The uric acid (H4UA) ligand was reacted with TeCl4, TaCl5, SeCl4, and NbCl5 metal chlorides in the presence of NaOH to yield mononuclear and binuclear complexes. The mononuclear tellurium (IV) and tantalum(V) complexes formulas [Te(H3UA)(H2O)3(Cl)]∙2Cl·2H2O (I) and [Ta(H3UA)(H2O)2(Cl)2]·2Cl∙4H2O (II), as well as binuclear selenium(IV) and niobium(V) complexes [Se2(H2UA)(Cl)4]·2Cl∙4H2O (III) and [Nb2(H2UA) (Cl)8] ∙3H2O (IV), were obtained in the presence of NaOH at pH 8–9. The metal complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, FTIR, 1H-NMR, electronic, conductivity, and thermal analyses. In the case of mononuclear complexes, the coordinating sites are the pyrimidine carbonyl oxygen atom of C(6)=O group and imidazole nitrogen of deprotonated N(7)–H. In addition to these coordinating sites, the pyrimidine carbonyl oxygen atom of C(2)=O and pyrimidine nitrogen of deprotonated N(3)–H are involved in coordination in binuclear complexes. The metal urate complexes exhibited six-coordinate geometries, while the binuclear selenium is four-coordinate. The antibacterial and anticancer activities of the urate complexes were investigated. No antibacterial activity was observed in any treatments, except for gram-negative Klebsiella, which showed a slight effect. The metal complexes showed high proportions of cell viability percentage after treatment in both colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) and breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines using the neutral red uptake assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examination of the female external genitalia to assess for sexual abuse is performed in living individuals, and the interpretation of the findings is based on evidence‐based studies. However, in the deceased, no such studies are available, and postmortem changes could present as suspicious findings that can be mistaken for trauma. Patches of discoloration in the hymen were reported previously in one case as hypostasis (i.e., livor and lividity), and based on this finding, it was listed as a finding that is not associated with trauma. This was a retrospective study that was conducted in the Center of Forensic and Legal Medicine in Dammam, Saudi Arabia over a 4‐year period. The study included 30 deceased women in whom photographic documentation of their external genitalia was assessed for postmortem changes. The postmortem interval ranged from less than 24 h to more than 100 days, and the ages of these deceased women were in the 20–40 year‐old age group. In cases where the hymen, vagina, and/or fossa navicularis were clearly visible, none of these areas showed any hypostatic discoloration. A comparison between antemortem and postmortem appearance of the hymen in one case clearly showed the absence of hypostatic changes in the hymen. In conclusion, any discoloration of the external genitalia that is detected in a female decedent requires serious consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health care system is one of the key areas where people with mental illnesses could experience stigma. Clinicians can hold stigma attitudes during their interactions with patients with mental illness. To improve the quality of mental health services and primary care, evidence-based practices should be disseminated and implemented. In this study, we evaluated the attitudes of health care providers in Bahrain toward people with mental illness and adoption of evidence-based practice using the Opening Minds Stigma Scale for Healthcare Providers (OMS-HC) and Evidence-Based Practice Attitude Scale (EBPAS). We conducted a cross-sectional study across 12 primary health care centers and a psychiatric hospital (the country's main mental health care facility). A self-report questionnaire was distributed among all health care providers. A total of 547 health care providers participated, with 274 from mental health services and 273 from primary care services. Results of the OMS-HC indicated differences between both main groups and subgroups. Regression model analysis reported significant outcomes. There was no statistical difference found between both groups in EBPAS scores. A weak but statistically significant negative association was reported between both scales. Participants showed varying stigma attitudes across different working environments, with less stigma shown in mental health services than in primary care services. Providers who were more open to adopting evidence-based practices showed less stigma toward people with mental illness. Comparing our findings with previous research showed that health care providers in Bahrain hold more stigma attitudes than other groups studied. We hope that this study serves as an initial step toward future campaigns against the stigma of mental illness in Bahrain and across the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the problem of an incompressible viscous fluid between non parallel plane walls as known Jeffery-Hamel flow has been studied by using a new scheme. This new scheme depends on integrating nth order of differential equation with known data which was performed using Taylor series expansion. The resulting solution is a new analytical approximate solution that represents a power series with physical parameters. The comparison between the present result from anew scheme with a numerical result and other methods was investigated. Interestingly the results confirm the applicability, efficiency, validity and converge of the new scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Becker's nevus (BN) is a benign cutaneous hamartoma. Although different types of lasers have been used to treat the pigmentary part of BN, to date, no definite treatment modality has been determined. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of erbium: yttrium aluminum garnet (Er: YAG) laser treatment among Saudi patients with BN. Patients and Methods: A series of 10 patients (skin phototypes III-V) with BN underwent treatment with an Er: YAG laser. Biopsies were taken from all patients to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment consisted of using a 2940 nm Er: YAG laser (fluence 700 mj/cm2, short pulse, 3 mm spot size). Each patient underwent one session with three to five passes (the endpoint of passes was pinpoint bleeding). Clinical outcome was assessed using digital photographic method, before each treatment session and after the final visit. Clinical assessment scores were determined at each follow-up visit. Results: Seven patients completed the study. All patients noticed a significant reduction in pigmentation. Five of the patients had good improvement, and the remaining two had moderate improvement. The mean reepithelialization time was 7 days, and post-treatment erythema was seen in all patients (mean follow-up of 6 weeks). Postinflammatory hypopigmentation was observed in all patients. No untoward sequelae were observed during the study or follow-up period. Conclusion: Er: YAG laser therapy can be an efficient modality for reducing the pigmentary part of BN. No scar formation, significant dyspigmentation, or recurrences were observed after 1 year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the magneto hydrodynamic (MHD) squeezing flow of a non-Newtonian, namely, Casson, fluid between parallel plates is studied. The suitable one of similarity transformation conversion laws is proposed to obtain the governing MHD flow nonlinear ordinary differential equation. The resulting equation has been solved by a novel algorithm. Comparisons between the results of the novel algorithm technique and other analytical techniques and one numerical Range-Kutta fourth-order algorithm are provided. The results are found to be in excellent agreement. Also, a novel convergence proof of the proposed algorithm based on properties of convergent series is introduced. Flow behavior under the changing involved physical parameters such as squeeze number, Casson fluid parameter, and magnetic number is discussed and explained in detail with help of tables and graphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the kinetically reduced local Navier-Stokes equations are applied to the simulation of two- and three-dimensional unsteady viscous incompressible flow problems. The reduced differential transform method is used to find the new approximate analytical solutions of these flow problems. The new technique has been tested by using four selected multidimensional unsteady flow problems: two- and three-dimensional Taylor decaying vortices flow, Kovasznay flow, and three-dimensional Beltrami flow. The convergence analysis was discussed for this approach. The numerical results obtained by this approach are compared with other results that are available in previous works. Our results show that this method is efficient to provide new approximate analytic solutions. Moreover, we found that it has highly precise solutions with good convergence, less time consuming, being easily implemented for high Reynolds numbers, and low Mach numbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyridoxine HCl (vitamin B6; Pyr-H3) complexes with the formula [M(Pyr-H)(H2O)4].Cl·nH2O [M= V(III), Ru(III); n = 0.1], [Pt(Pyr-H)(H2O)(Cl)].Cl, [Se(Pyr-H3)(O)(OH)2], and [Au(Pyr-H)(H2O)2]·Cl are synthesized by the reactions of Pyr-H3 with metal chlorides [V(III), Ru(III), Pt(II), Se(IV), and Au(III)] at 60°C in methanol-water 50: 50 v/v. The accumulated data of the elemental analysis, conductivity measurements, mass, FT-IR, 1H, and 13C NMR, UV-Vis spectroscopy and magnetic moments support elucidated stoichiometry, structures and chelation of the complexes. Thermogravimetric analysis of the synthesized solid complexes is carried out for determining their thermal stability, number of crystalline water molecules and decomposition steps. According to the physicochemical analyses Pyr-H3 reacts with metal ions as a bidentate ligand via both phenolate oxygen and oxygen of the CH2OH group. The antimicrobial and anticancer tests reveal that complexes demonstrate higher antibacterial activity than free Pyr-H3 chelate. According to the cytotoxic results of Pt(IV) and Au(III) complexes in vitro based on human hepato cellular carcinoma (HepG-2) and human breast cancer (MCF-7) tumor cell lines, the former one exhibits promising activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schiff base (HL) complexes of the general formula [M 2 (L)(Cl) x (NH 3 ) y ]· z H 2 O where (M = Ru 3+ , Pt 4+ and Ir 3+ , L = deprotonated Schiff base of o-vanilin p -amino acetophenone, x = 5, y = 4, z = 0 for Ru 3+ ( 1 ) and Ir 3+ ( 3 ) and x = 7, y = 2, z = 3 for Pt 4+ ( 2 )) were synthesized. In ethanol, the Schiff base (HL) was prepared by refluxing o-vanilin with p -aminoacetophenone. Ru 3+ , Pt 4+ and Ir 3+ chelates of The Schiff base coordinated to the tested metal ions (Ru 3+ , Pt 4+ and Ir 3+ ) in a bi-fashion through ON (phenolic oxygen and azomethine nitrogen groups) and monodentate fashion through carbonyl group oxygen of the acetophenone moiety donor systems. The resultant solid complexes were fully characterized using elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility, molar conductivity, FT-IR, 1 H NMR and electronic spectra. The complexes have octahedral configurations. The molar conductivity data indicate that the complexes are non-electrolytes. Analytical data support 2:1 (M:L) stoichiometry. The surface morphology and grain size of Schiff base complexes have been discussed using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The cyclic voltammetric analysis technique for the [Pt 2 (HL)(Cl) 7 (NH 3 ) 2 ]·3H 2 O in (Bu) 4 N + ·BF 4 − -DMSO solution at 100 mV/s vs. Ag/AgCl electrode was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New six cobalt(II) complexes 1 – 6 with four generation of quinolone drugs (nalidixic acid (Nal), oxolonic acid (Oxo), pipemidic acid (Pip), lomefloxacin (Lom), pefloxacin mesylate (Pef) and levofloxacin (Lev)) have been synthesized in methanol medium, and the general formula was designed as [Co(L) 2 (Cl) 2 (H 2 O) 2 ]·4H 2 O (L = Nal ( 1 ), Oxo ( 2 ), Pip ( 3 ), Lom ( 4 ), Pef ( 5 ), and Lev ( 6 )). The Co(III) complexes were identified using micro–analytical, FT–IR spectroscopy, conductance data, effective magnetic moments, electronic UV–vis spectra, and thermal analyses. The six quinolone drug chelates acts as uni–dentate via nitrogen atom of pyridone/piperazyl moiety. Electronic spectroscopic tools are in agreement with an octahedral geometrical structure. Thermal degradation analyses TG–DTG in nitrogen gas environmental are discussed the number and location of water molecules. The thermal decomposition process is completely in 3–4 steps, that the first step is responsible to loss of four uncoordinated water molecules. The stabilities of Co(II) complex 1 – 6 were studied dependent on activations of energy E*, entropy ΔS*, enthalpy ΔH* and Gibbs free energy ΔG* that have been estimated using Coats–Redfern and Horowitz–Metzeger non–isothermal methods. Molecular docking was used to predict the binding between some quinolone drugs with the receptor of breast cancer mutant 3hb5 -oxidoreductase. The structural view of the synthesized cobalt(II)-quinolone nanoparticles has been documented with the help of transmission electron microscope (TEM). The synthesized metal chelates have been screened in vitro antibacterial activity against bacteria, gram-positive ( Staphylococcus aureus ) and gram-negative ( Escherichia coli ) and two strains of fungus ( Aspergillus flavus and Candida albicans ). The cobalt(II) chelates were shown to possess more antibacterial activity than the free chelates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child sexual abuse (CSA) requires specialized knowledge and training that includes forensic interview skills. The aim of this study was to determine variations in professionals’ attitudes toward CSA by measuring three aspects of forensic attitudes (sensitivity, specificity, and skepticism) and evaluating disagreements concerning the assessment of CSA cases in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional, web-based study, in which the Child Forensic Attitude Scale was used to measure professionals’ attitudes, was conducted. Professionals who dealt with suspected cases of CSA as part of their jobs or were in professions that necessitated involvement with such cases, were selected as participants. Of 327 participants, 53% were aged ≤40 years, and 54% were men. In addition, 24% were doctors/nurses, 20% were therapists/psychiatrists, 24% were social workers, 17% were educators, 9% were law enforcement professionals, and 5% were medical examiners. Attitude subscale scores differed significantly according to participants’ sex, specialty, and training. Women, healthcare professionals, and those who had participated in more than five training courses were more concerned about the underreporting of abuse (high sensitivity) relative to other professionals. In comparison, men, medical examiners, law enforcement officers, and undertrained professionals tended to underreport suspected sexual abuse cases (high specificity). High specificity in attitudes toward suspected cases of CSA could affect professionals’ judgment and contribute to low reporting rates. Certain strategies, including increasing self-awareness of personal bias, specific CSA recognition courses, and team approaches to case assessment and management, should be implemented to control the influence of subjective factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary pulmonary Hodgkin lymphoma (PPHL) is very rare and typically involves the superior portion of the lung. Pulmonary involvement is observed in 15-40% of Hodgkin lymphoma patients. Three such patients who presented with an unusual form of PPHL in radiological studies, i.e., multiloculated cavitary lesions, were admitted to our hospital. These lesions represent a new pathological and radiological feature of PPHL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical spectroscopic characteristics of Co(II), Ni(II), Cr(III), and Fe(III) cholyltaurine adducts have been studied. IR and Raman spectra confirmed that the cholyltaurine compound acted as a mononegative bidentate chelating agent. Nitrogen atom of the NH group and O of deprotonated sulphonate group acted as chelation sites towards the metal ions. UV-Vis spectra and magnetic moments block measurements confirmed that all complexes had the octahedral geometry. Water, Cl, and NO acted as secondary chelates. The positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) technique was applied to investigate the structural changes of cholyltaurine ligand and its complexes. The results indicated that the average defect density in the studied ligand and its complexes was efficiently correlating with their molecular weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message Erythromelanosis follicularis faciei et colli ( EFFC) is a distinct, rare, and underdiagnosed condition of unknown etiology that is characterized by well-demarcated erythema, hyperpigmentation, and follicular papules. The pigmentation is usually on both maxillary, preauricular regions, and the cheeks. We report a case of a 12-year-old boy with EFFC that was associated with reticulated pigmentation of the extremities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medico-legal (forensic) autopsy is an important element in the investigative process of any suspicious death. People's reactions toward a forensic autopsy vary among cultural and religious beliefs. This research has studied the reaction of the general public in Saudi Arabia (Arabic and Islamic cultural backgrounds) toward this procedure with the aim of exploring the cultural and religious influence on their attitude. An online survey of the awareness and attitude toward the forensic autopsy was distributed to Saudi people across different ages and educational levels. A total of 1866 persons responded to the questionnaire with the majority falling between the ages of 21 and 40 years. The majority of the participants (66%) thought that legal investigations without a forensic autopsy are not enough to determine the cause of death. Twenty-one percent were not comfortable, for religious reasons, with the performance of an autopsy and 72% thought that an autopsy should be done only after the consent was attained from the deceased's relatives. Understanding the worries of people toward this procedure highlights the importance of awareness programmes with the goal of correcting misconceptions and relieving worries. Awareness campaigns through media could be a good source of relaying correct information regarding this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives Pemphigoid gestationis (PG) is a rare autoimmune-mediated blistering disease that mainly affects pregnant women in their 2nd or 3rd trimester and immediate postpartum period. In addition to the clinical assessment, the diagnosis of PG is usually confirmed by histological and immunological studies. PG usually flares up at the time of delivery and spontaneously improves postpartum. Prompt recognition and appropriate management may reduce morbidity associated with this disorder. This study aimed to determine the clinical, histopathological features and treatment of PG of Saudi patients. Materials and methods A retrospective study of 32 patients with pemphigoid gestationis (PG) was conducted from 1990 to 2014 at King Khalid University Hospital and Derma Medical Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data regarding epidemiology, medical histories, clinical course, diagnostic test results and management were collected and analyzed. Results A total of 32 patients with PG were analyzed. The mean age was 31.9 years. Seventy-four percent of the patients were multigravidas, and 2 patients were primigravidas. One hundred percent of the cases were singleton pregnancies. Eighty-four percent of the cases had the onset of PG during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. One hundred percent of patients complained of pruritus, and 94% reported this as the first symptom. Erythematous plaques and vesiculobullous eruption were the most common skin presentation. The primary sites of involvement were the abdomen, trunk, lower (mainly thighs) and upper limbs. The face and mucus membranes were rarely involved. Fifty percent of patients had recurrent symptoms with their next pregnancy. Direct immunofluorescence revealed a linear deposition of the third component of the complement along the basement membrane zone in all cases (C3),while most of the cases showed positive linear deposition of IgG. Seventy five percent of our patients had a good response to oral corticosteroids, and only one patient needed IVIG. The vast majority of the patients (61%) became free of symptoms within 1–2 months of treatment. In 53% of the patients, maternal and fetal outcomes were good with no complications. Six pregnancies were complicated by preterm labor, 2 experienced IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction), and 2 had an abortion or stillbirth. Conclusion Our study does not differ dramatically when comparing the onset of PG, the high frequency of multigravida women, the clinical course and good patient outcomes but we observed that the first attack extended from primigravida to 11th pregnancy and slight increase in recurrence rate. Finally the timely diagnosis and appropriate management of PG may improve both maternal and neonatal outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Henna is the dried and powdered leaf of Lawsonia inermisand is a natural dye for hair, nails and skin for body arts in Islamic and Hindu cultures. Recently, it has been widely used in western countries as temporary black henna tattoo. Different experimental in vitro studies showed many pharmacological effects of L. inermis. Topical pure henna is generally safe and well-tolerated in humans but oral and topical henna with additives like para-phenylenediamine have many side effects some of them life threatening. This review highlights pharmacological effectiveness and adverse effects of henna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nasogastric tube has a key role in the management of substantial number of hospitalized patients particularly the critically ill. In spite of the apparent simple insertion technique, nasogastric tube placement has its serious perhaps fatal complications which need to be carefully assessed. Pulmonary misplacement and associated complications are commonplace during nasogastric tube procedure. We present a case of tension pneumothorax and massive surgical emphysema in critically ill ventilated patient due to inadvertent nasogastric tube insertion and also discussed the risk factors, complication list, and arrays of techniques for safer tube placement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the present work comprises the synthesis of atorvastatin calcium (AVT) complexes with various transition metals. Ten kinds of complexes [Cr(AVT)(Cl)(HO)]·5HO ( 1), [Mn(AVT)(HO)] ( 2), [Fe(AVT)(Cl)(HO)]·9HO ( 3), [Co(AVT)(HO)]·8HO ( 4), [Ni(AVT)(HO)]·4HO ( 5), [Cu(AVT)(HO)] ( 6), [Zn(AVT)]·2HO ( 7), [Pt(AVT)(Cl)] ( 8), [Au(AVT)] ( 9), and [Pd(AVT)(Cl)] ( 10) were obtained. The complexes were characterized by different physicochemical, spectroscopic, and elemental analyses. Results suggest that atorvastatin interacts with the metals as a monoanionic bidentate ligand. These complexes were also tested for their antibacterial activity against six different microorganisms, and the results were compared with the parent drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mononuclear Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Zn(II), Cd(II), Mg(II), Sr(II), Ba(II), Ca(II), Pt(IV), Au(III), and Pd(II) complexes of the drug amlodipine besylate (HL) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, spectroscopic technique (IR, UV-Vis, solid reflectance, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and H-NMR) and magnetic measurements. The elemental analyses of the complexes are confirmed by the stoichiometry of the types [M(HL)(X)(HO)]· nHO [M = Mn(II), Co(II), Zn(II), Ni(II), Mg(II), Sr(II), Ba(II), and Ca(II); X = Cl or NO], [Cd(HL)(HO)]Cl, [Pd(HL)]Cl, [Pt(L)]Cl, and [Au(L)]Cl, respectively. Infrared data revealed that the amlodipine besylate drug ligand chelated as monobasic tridentate through NH, oxygen (ether), and OH of besylate groups in Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Zn(II), Cd(II), Mg(II), Sr(II), Ba(II), Ca(II), and Au(III) complexes, but in Pt(IV) and Pd(II) complexes, the amlodipine besylate coordinates via NH and OH (besylate) groups. An octahedral geometry is proposed for all complexes except for the Cd(II), Pt(IV), and Pd(II) complexes. The amlodipine besylate free ligand and the transition and non-transition complexes showed antibacterial activity towards some Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and the fungi ( Aspergillus flavus and Candida albicans). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dermatopathia pigmentosa reticularis (DPR) is a very rare autosomal dominant ectodermal dysplasia caused by mutations in keratin 14 and characterized by the triad of generalized reticulate hyperpigmentation, nonscarring alopecia, and onychodystrophy. We report two Saudi brothers with DPR that had normal hair shafts, as assessed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Spectroscopic studies on the reaction between metoclopramide with π-acceptors. [•] Synthesis of charge transfer complex of some nervous and brain drugs. [•] The stoichiometry of these complexes was found to be 1:1 molar ratio. [•] These complexes were also tested for their antimicrobial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven types of complexes were obtained when penicillin G potassium (pin) was reacted with transition and non-transition metal ions in methanol/distilled water mixed solvent. Magnetic susceptibilities and ESR spectra (Cu complex) of powdered samples indicated that the monomeric form of the complexes in the solid state, and the paramagnetic nature of the Cu, Ni, Mn, Cr, Co, and Fe complexes is attributable to the octahedral ligitional behavior of the potassium G penicillinate ligand. The antibacterial activity of the metal complexes were tested against some kind of bacteria and fungi strains and compared with penicillin G potassium activity. The possible mechanism of antibacterial action is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To study life styles and dietary behaviors among Saudi preschool children (1-5 years) attending primary health care centers (PHCCs) in Dammam and Qatif areas, eastern province, Saudi Arabia. Material and Methods. Cross-sectional study. Data were collected using structured, interviewer-filled questionnaire. Children and their mothers were encountered during their wellbaby clinic visits. A total number of 300 preschool children and their mothers were interviewed during study period. Results. Unsatisfactory areas include smoking fathers (32%), smoking in front of children (11.3%), overweight and obesity among mothers (60.3%), noncompliance using seat belts for both parents (56.3%) and children (68%), children watching television (T.V) more than 2 hours (50%), adherence to exclusive breast feeding (only 20.7%), and late solid food introduction (65.3%). Frequent intake of unhealthy food items was 26%, 25%, and 24% for pizza, burger, and soft drinks. Unfortunately frequent intake of the following unhealthy food items was high: biscuits, deserts/chocolates, and chips which was 78%, 67%, and 72%, respectively. Conclusion. This study provides benchmark about the current situation. It provides health care workers and decision makers with important information that may help to improve health services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The focus of present investigation was to assess the utility of non-expensive techniques in the evaluation of risperidone (Ris) in solid and solution states with different traditional π-acceptors and subsequent incorporation of the analytical determination into pharmaceutical formulation for a faster release of risperidone. Charge-transfer complexes (CTC) of risperidone with picric acid (PA), 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-p-benzoquinon (DDQ), tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), tetracyano ethylene (TCNE), tetrabromo-p-quinon (BL) and tetrachloro-p-quinon (CL) have been studied spectrophotometrically in absolute methanol at room temperature. The stoichiometries of the complexes were found to be 1:1 ratio by the photometric molar ratio between risperidone and the π-acceptors. The equilibrium constants, molar extinction coefficient (εCT ) and spectroscopic-physical parameters (standard free energy (ΔG o), oscillator strength (f), transition dipole moment (μ), resonance energy (RN ) and ionization potential (ID )) of the complexes were determined upon the modified Benesi–Hildebrand equation. Risperidone in pure form was applied in this study. The results indicate that the formation constants for the complexes depend on the nature of electron acceptors and donor, and also the spectral studies of the complexes were determined by (infrared, Raman, and 1H NMR) spectra and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The most stable mono-protonated form of Ris is characterized by the formation of +Ndine ring) intramolecular hydrogen bonded. In the high-wavenumber spectral region ∼3400cm−1, the bands of the +Ning vibrations and of the pyrimidine nitrogen atom could be potentially useful to discriminate the investigated forms of Ris. The infrared spectra of both Ris complexes are confirming the participation of +Nine ring in the donor–acceptor interaction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Complexes of [Mn(MF)(Cl)]·2HO ( 1), [Fe(MF)(Cl)]Cl·4HO ( 2), [Ni(MF·HCl)(Cl)]·6HO ( 3), [Cu(MF·HCl)(Cl)] ( 4), [Zn(MF·HCl)](NO)·6HO ( 5), [Cd(MF·HCl)(Cl)(HO)] ( 6), [Mg(MF·HCl)(Cl)]·6HO ( 7), [Sr(MF·HCl)(Cl)(HO)] ( 8), [Ba(MF·HCl)(Cl)]·2HO ( 9), [Pt(MF)] ( 10), [Au(MF)]Cl ( 11), and [Pd(MF)]Cl ( 12) were synthesized from Legitional behavior of metformin drug as a diabetic agent. The authenticity of the transition and non-transition metal complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, molar conductivity, (infrared, UV-Vis) spectra, effective magnetic moment in Bohr magnetons, electron spin resonance, thermal analysis, X-ray powder diffraction as well as scanning electron microscopy. Infrared spectral studies as well as elemental analyses revealed the existence of metformin in the base or hydrochloride salt forms in the chelation state acts as a bidentate ligand while the platinum(IV) complex is coordinated through the deprotonation of -NH group. The magnetic and electronic spectra of Mn(II), Fe(III), Ni(II), and Cu(II) complexes suggest an octahedral geometry. Antimicrobial screening of metformin and its complexes were determined against the (G and G) bacteria ( Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and fungi ( Aspergillus flavus and Candida albicans). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Donor–acceptor interactions between the electron donor haloperidol (HPL) and π-acceptors like 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) and picric acid (PA) have been studied spectrophotometrically in CH3OH solvent. The donor–acceptor (charge transfer complexes) were discussed in terms of formation constant (K CT), molar extinction coefficient (ε CT), standard free energy (ΔGo ), oscillator strength (ƒ), transition dipole moment (μ), resonance energy (RN ) and ionization potential (I D). The stoichiometry of these complexes was found to be 1:1M ratio and having the formulas [(HPL)(TCNQ)] and [(HPL)(PA)], respectively. The charge transfer interaction was successfully applied to determine of HPL drug using mentioned common π-acceptors also, the results obtained herein are satisfactory for estimation of HPL compound in the pharmaceutical form. The formed solid charge-transfer complexes were also isolated and characterized using elemental analysis, conductivity, (infrared, Raman, and 1HNMR) spectra and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The experimental data of elemental analyses are in agreement with calculated data. The infrared spectra of both HPL complexes are confirming the participation of ydroxy-1-piperidyl moiety in the donor–acceptor chelation. The morphological surface of the resulted charge transfer complexes were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) techniques were performed to give knowledge about the thermal stability behavior of the synthesized charge transfer complexes. Thermodynamic parameters were computed from the thermal decomposition data. These complexes were also tested for their antimicrobial activity against six different microorganisms, and the results were compared with the parent drug. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: Primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) is a motor neuron disorder that exclusively affects upper motor neurons leading to their degeneration. Mutations in the ALS2 gene encoding the protein Alsin have been described previously in the juvenile form of the disease. In this study, we identify mutation of the ERLIN2 gene in juvenile PLS patients and describe an in vitro model for loss of ERLIN2 function. Methods: Single nucleotide polymorphism arrays were used for homozygosity mapping. DNA sequencing of candidate genes was used to detect the underlying mutation. Level of ERLIN2 mRNA was measured by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction. Knocking down ERLIN2 in NSC34 cells was accomplished by short-hairpin RNA interference. Results: We identified a splice junction mutation in the ERLIN2 gene-a component of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lipid rafts-that resulted in abnormal splicing of ERLIN2 transcript and nonsense-mediated decay of ERLIN2 mRNA. Knocking down ERLIN2 in NSC34 cells suppressed their growth in culture. Interpretation: Recently, we found that mutation of SIGMAR1, a component of ER lipid rafts, leads to juvenile amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The identification of mutation in another component of the ER lipid rafts in juvenile PLS patients emphasizes their role in motor neuron function. Furthermore, the discovered effect of ERLIN2 loss on cell growth may advance understanding of the mechanism behind motor neuron degeneration in PLS. ANN NEUROL 2012;72:510-516 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ten coordination compounds, namely Mn(NA)2Cl2·4H2O (1), Fe(NA)Cl3(H2O)2 (2), Co(NA)2(NO3)2·6H2O (3), Ni(NA)Cl2·5H2O (4), Cu(NA)Cl2·3H2O (5), Zn(NA)(NO3)2·H2O (6), Pd(NA)2Cl2·H2O (7), Cd(NA)Cl2·H2O (8), Pt(NA)2Cl4·5H2O (9) and Au(NA)Cl3 (10) were obtained by the reactions of the corresponding transition metal salts with vitamin B3/niacin (NA) in the presence of 1:4 (v:v) distilled water: methanol solvent at 70°C for about 30min, and their suggested structures were determined by elemental analyses, molar conductivity, (infrared, UV–vis) spectra, effective magnetic moment in Bohr magnetons, electron spin resonance (ESR), thermal analysis (TG), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results revealed that in complexes 1, 3, 7, and 9 both of two NA ligand coordinates one metal ion to form four or six coordinated structures, while in compound 10, one NA ligand coordinate to Au+++ ion to form a square-planar geometry with N-bonded pyridine ligand is suggested, and (2, 4, 5, 6 and, 8) complexes have 1:1 structures. Antimicrobial and antitumor activities were assessment against some kind of (G+ and G−) bacteria, fungi and breast carcinoma cells (MCF-7-cell line). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nicolaides-Baraitser syndrome (NCBRS), first described in 1993, is a rare autosomal dominant disease caused by pathogenic variants in the SMARCA2 gene on chromosome 9p24.3. NCBRS typically presents with dysmorphic facial features, seizures, intellectual disability, and developmental delays. Abnormal findings of the eye and ocular adnexa associated with NCBRS have not been systematically evaluated and summarized in literature. This report presents the case of a 4-year-old male with NCBRS along with a systematic review of literature of the abnormal ophthalmologic and facial features of NCBRS cases. A systematic review of literature of published cases of molecularly confirmed NCBRS was performed and the frequencies of eye, ocular adnexa, and facial abnormalities were calculated. Our patient's abnormal eye features include myopia, down slanting palpebral fissures, sagging inferior periorbital skin, hypertelorism, and long eyelashes. From the systemic review of literature, the most common abnormal eye and ocular adnexa features include prominent/long eyelashes, thick eyebrows, sagging periorbital skin, down slanting palpebral fissures, and ptosis. The most common facial dysmorphic features include thick/everted lower lip, coarse facial features, wide/large mouth, and thin upper lip. Dental abnormalities are also commonly reported. NCBRS frequently presents with well-defined ophthalmic and facial abnormalities. Prompt ophthalmologic evaluation following NCBRS diagnosis may be recommended to screen for several eye disorders. Surgical correction of ptosis may be indicated for NCBRS patients. This report may help further delineate the phenotype of this condition, which may allow for more rapid identification of those affected and provide incentive for additional studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auditory-evoked potentials represent the response of the auditory pathway to an auditory stimulus. Specific language impairment (SLI) children have delayed language development with difficulties in both understanding and producing spoken language. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine whether a group of children with SLI had abnormal changes in the auditory middle latency response (AMLR). AMLR was obtained for 19 SLI children and they were studied and compared to normal. Audiological assessment and speech language tests were done for the study group. The results revealed no significant statistical differences between SLI children and the normal with regard to AMLR ( P > 0.05). Our results suggest that children with SLI do not have abnormal auditory system response at the level measured by AMLR casting doubt on affection of the hypnotized origin of AMLR, mainly primary auditory cortex, as a cause for delayed language development in those children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UU and UA dinucleotides are rare in mammalian genes and may offer natural selection against endoribonuclease-mediated mRNA decay. This study hypothesized that reducing UU and UA (UW) dinucleotides in the mRNA-coding sequence, including the codons and the dicodon boundaries, may promote resistance to mRNA decay, thereby increasing protein production. Indeed, protein expression from UW-reduced coding regions of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP), luciferase, interferon-α, and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was higher when compared to the wild-type protein expression. The steady-state level of UW-reduced EGFP mRNA was higher and the mRNA half-life was also longer. Ectopic expression of the endoribonuclease, RNase L, did not reduce the wild type or UW-reduced mRNA. A mutant form of the mRNA decay-promoting protein, tristetraprolin (TTP/ZFP36), which has a point mutation in the zinc-finger domain (C124R), was used. The wild-type EGFP mRNA but not the UW-reduced mRNA responded to the dominant negative action of the C124R ZFP36/TTP mutant. The results indicate the efficacy of the described rational approach to formulate a general scheme for boosting recombinant protein production in mammalian cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Retrosternal goiter (RSG) is a term that has been used to describe a goiter that extends beyond the thoracic inlet. Surgery plays an important role in the treatment of these patients, but whether all or selected patients with RSG should undergo this operation remains controversial. Our aim is to look into the demographics, presentation, and treatment of patients with RSG and essentially to determine the role of surgery in its treatment. SETTING AND DESIGN: Retrospective study, teaching hospital-based. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of 537 thyroidectomies performed at King Khalid University Hospital between 2003 and 2010. The twenty-six patients with RSG were analyzed further, with regard to demographics, presentation, indications, and outcome of surgical treatment. Statistical analysis was performed, where age was expressed as mean and range, and other variables were presented as numbers and percentage. RESULTS: There were 26 patients (4.8%) with RSG out of 537 thyroidectomies, who underwent an operation for removal of RSGs, in a seven-year period. The most common presentation was dyspnea (34.6%) and the surgical procedure predominantly used was total thyroidectomy. The RSGs were removed by collar incision in 96% of the cases. The final histological diagnosis revealed malignancy in 26.9% of the thyroid specimens. There was no mortality and minor complications occurred in nine patients. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of an RSG is an indication for surgery owing to the lack of effective medical treatment, the higher incidence of symptoms related to compression, low surgical morbidity, and the risk of malignancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three axis-control low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellites use momentum exchange devices, such as reaction wheels, to maneuver and control their attitude to perform image acquisition. High-resolution satellite payloads demand stable pointing with very small jitter to achieve good performance. Microsatellites with flexible appendages such as deployable solar panels are very prone to vibration, especially when excited by internal actuators such as reaction wheels or momentum wheels that are used to control the attitude of the satellite. Any infinitesimal amount of unbalance in the reaction wheels' rotors will impose a harmonic excitation that may interact with the structure of the solar panels. Therefore, controlling the solar panels' structural vibration interaction would control the jitter. This control was achieved by attaching a set of properly chosen point masses at selected locations along the solar panels. The panels are modeled using Timoshenko beam theory. A scheme was proposed for choosing the optimal values of the added masses and their locations to minimize the satellite vibration. A prototype of a microsatellite with three reaction wheels and two solar panels, equipped with linear actuators to control the point mass location along the panels, is developed to demonstrate the concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and eventually death from respiratory failure. ALS is familial in about 10% of cases, with SOD1 mutations accounting for 20% of familial cases. Here we describe a consanguineous family segregating juvenile ALS in an autosomal recessive pattern and describe the genetic variant responsible for the disorder. Methods: We performed homozygosity mapping and direct sequencing to detect the genetic variant and tested the effect of this variant on a motor neuron-like cell line model (NSC34) expressing the wild-type or mutant gene. Results: We identified a shared homozygosity region in affected individuals that spans ∼120kbp on chromosome 9p13.3 containing 9 RefSeq genes. Sequencing the SIGMAR1 gene revealed a mutation affecting a highly conserved amino acid located in the transmembrane domain of the encoded protein, sigma-1 receptor. The mutated protein showed an aberrant subcellular distribution in NSC34 cells. Furthermore, cells expressing the mutant protein were less resistant to apoptosis induced by endoplasmic reticulum stress. Interpretation: Sigma-1 receptors are known to have neuroprotective properties, and recently Sigmar1 knockout mice have been described to have motor deficiency. Our findings emphasize the role of sigma-1 receptors in motor neuron function and disease. ANN NEUROL 2011; [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interferon (IFN) response is initiated by a variety of triggers, including viruses and foreign RNA, and involves several receptors and intracellular mediators. Although there are common cis-acting consensus sequences in the promoters of many genes stimulated during the IFN response, they exhibit core and context heterogeneity that may lead to differential transcriptional activity. We have developed and validated a live cell-based enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) reporter system employing more than a hundred constructs containing multiple viruses and IFN response elements derived from a variety of promoters involved in immunity to viruses. Common and distinct response patterns were observed due to promoter heterogeneity in response to different stimuli, including IFN-a, TLR3-agonist double-stranded RNA, and several viruses. This information should serve as a resource in selecting specific reporters for sensing nonself ligands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A modified version of the traditional tuned liquid column damper (TLCD) absorber is proposed as a passive vibration control device for structures vibrating at low frequencies. This new version, denoted as tuned liquid column ball damper (TLCBD), is equipped with a coated steel ball, in place of the orifice in TLCD, immersed inside the horizontal column of the damper. The current study examines the performance of TLCBD for a harmonic excitation which is a simplified model for the vortex shedding forces on structures in the cross wind direction. A parametric study to investigate the effect of the ball size and absorber mass on the suppression capacity is carried out. The absorber damping characteristics is identified experimentally using a single point laser vibrometer system and the measured damping factor is used in the mathematical model. Intensive numerical simulations were conduced and the results are compared with the traditional TLCD with optimum parameters. The results revealed an improvement of the vibration suppression capability of the proposed version that exceeds around 66% reduction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Hypogonadism, alopecia, diabetes mellitus, mental retardation, and extrapyramidal syndrome (also referenced as Woodhouse-Sakati syndrome) is a rare autosomal recessive multisystemic disorder. We have identified a founder mutation consisting of a single base-pair deletion in C2orf37 in eight families of Saudi origin. Three other loss-of-function mutations were subsequently discovered in patients of different ethnicities. The gene encodes a nucleolar protein of unknown function, and the cellular phenotype observed in patient lymphoblasts implicates a role for the nucleolus in the pathogenesis of this disease. Our findings expand the list of human disorders linked to the nucleolus and further highlight the developmental and/or maintenance functions of this organelle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatic artery chemoembolization (HACE) is a treatment option in the management of metastatic carcinoid. We reviewed our experience to identify potential factors that influence survival.Methods: The records of 122 patients with metastatic carcinoid tumor undergoing HACE were reviewed. Log-rank analysis and Cox proportional hazards were applied to identify factors predictive of decreased survival.Results: Median follow-up after HACE was 21.5 months. Complications occurred in 23% with periprocedural mortality of 5%. Radiographic tumor regression was seen in 82%, with stabilization of disease in 12%. Median duration of CT response was 19 months. Improvement in symptoms occurred in 92% for median duration of 13 months. HACE resulted in complete normalization of serum pancreastatin in 14%, with greater than 20% reduction in another 66%. Median overall survival was 33.3 months after HACE. Only pancreastatin level > or =5,000 pg/ml was associated with decreased survival by multivariate analysis.Conclusion: HACE offers symptom palliation and long-term survival in patients with incurable carcinoid metastases. Although safe, it should be approached cautiously in patients with significant tumor burden as evidenced by pancreastatin levels > or =5,000 pg/ml. We do not recommend whole-liver embolization in these patients but prefer a staged approach to each lobe of the liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explores prisoners' attitudes for undertaking distance-learning courses whilst in prison, and considers both the benefits and the difficulties experienced by prisoners as a result of their academic work. It is based on over 35 questionnaires completed by 300 current prisoners. The research was conducted in three prisons throughout the country in three different provinces. In addition to providing an in-depth account of the role that education can play during a prison sentence and beyond, it is intended that the experiences shared by these prisoners will provide the basis for additional guidance and support for future distance-learning inmates. The data of this study show that the prisoners in general demonstrated positive attitudes toward using distance education whilst in prisons. The remarkable finding was that the prisoners were self-motivated to engage in the computer and Internet use to continue their academic studies whilst in prison and learn new skills for getting jobs after prison. This finding supports the possibility of the prisoners' engagement in distance education courses offered at prisons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]