Search

objectives: Congenital uterine anomalies (CUAs) occur because of malformation of the female genital tract at any stage of the Müllerian duct development process. This retrospective study investigated the prevalence of CUAs and tubal blockage in infertile Omani women who underwent a hysterosalpingogram procedure as part of the evaluation of infertility. Methods: The radiographic reports of patients aged 19–48 years who underwent hysterosalpingogram as part of infertility evaluation during the 2013–2018 period, were collected and analyzed for the presence and the type of CUAs. Results: The records of N = 912 patients were evaluated, 44.3% of whom had been investigated for primary infertility and 55.7% for secondary infertility. Patients with primary infertility were significantly younger than those with secondary infertility. Of the 27 (3.0%) patients who were found to have CUAs, 19 had arcuate uterus. No correlation was found between the type of infertility and the CUAs. Conclusions: CUAs were prevalent in 3.0% of the cohort, most of whom were diagnosed with arcuate uterus.

Huma Ali,1 Savita Dixit,1 Daoud Ali,2 Abdullah A Alkahtane,2 Saud Alarifi,2 Bahy A Ali,2,3 Saad Alkahtani2 1Department of Chemistry, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India; 2Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 3Department of Nucleic Acids Research, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City Science Research and Technology Application, Alexandria, Egypt Abstract: Quercetol is a polyphenolic molecule present in vegetables and fruits, and is beneficial to human and animal health. The current work aimed to test cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of quercetol on HepG2 cells. Quercetol was isolated from Ocimum sanctum and characterized by gas chromatography–tandom mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Quercetol (50–600 µg/mL) was examined for cytotoxic activity by tetrazolium salt and neutral red uptake tests and comet assay for genotoxicity, using HepG2 cells, over 24 hours. Data from 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and neutral red uptake tests demonstrated quercetol-induced cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. With 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining, a significant induction of chromosomal condensation was observed at 300 µg/mL of quercetol. DNA fragmentation analysis showed that quercetol produced cell death in HepG2 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Thus, our study suggests that an environmentally relevant concentration of quercetol, which was a chemically standardized extract from O. sanctum, induced cell death and DNA damage in HepG2 cells. Keywords: NMR, FTIR, quercetol, HepG2 cells, MTT assay, apoptosis, comet assay

Saud Alarifi,1 Daoud Ali,1 Amin A Al-Doaiss,1,2 Bahy A Ali,1,3 Mukhtar Ahmed,1 Abdulaziz A Al-Khedhairy11Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 2Anatomy and Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Republic of Yemen; 3Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City for Scientific Research and Technology Applications, Alexandria, EgyptAbstract: Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles are among the top five nanoparticles used in consumer products, paints, and pharmaceutical preparations. Given that exposure to such nanoparticles is mainly via the skin and inhalation, the present study was conducted in male Wistar albino rats (Rattus norvegicus). Our aim was to investigate the effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on hepatic tissue in an attempt to understand their toxicity and the potential effect of their therapeutic and diagnostic use. To investigate the effects of TiO2 nanoparticles on liver tissue, 30 healthy male Wistar albino rats were exposed to TiO2 nanoparticles at doses of 63 mg, 126 mg, and 252 mg per animal for 24 and 48 hours. Serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase and alkaline phosphatase activity was altered. Changes in hepatocytes can be summarized as hydropic degeneration, cloudy swelling, fatty degeneration, portal and lobular infiltration by chronic inflammatory cells, and congested dilated central veins. The histologic alterations observed might be an indication of hepatocyte injury due to the toxicity of TiO2 nanoparticles, resulting in an inability to deal with accumulated residues from the metabolic and structural disturbances caused by these nanoparticles. The appearance of cytoplasmic degeneration and destruction of nuclei in hepatocytes suggests that TiO2 nanoparticles interact with proteins and enzymes in hepatic tissue, interfering with antioxidant defense mechanisms and leading to generation of reactive oxygen species which, in turn, may induce stress in hepatocytes, promoting atrophy, apoptosis, and necrosis. More immunohistochemical and ultrastructural investigations are needed in relation to TiO2 nanoparticles and their potential effects when used as therapeutic and diagnostic tools.Keywords: TiO2 nanoparticles, rats, liver, histology, TUNEL assay, alkaline phosphatase, apoptosis

Saud Alarifi,1 Daoud Ali,1 Saad Alkahtani,1 Maqsood A Siddiqui,2 Bahy A Ali2,31Cell and Molecular Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 2DNA Research Chair, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 3Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology Research Institute City for Scientific Research and Technology Applications, Alexandria, EgyptBackground: Arsenic is a ubiquitous environmental toxicant, and abnormalities of the skin, lung, kidney, and liver are the most common outcomes of long-term arsenic exposure. This study was designed to investigate the possible mechanisms of genotoxicity induced by arsenic trioxide in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells.Methods and results: A mild cytotoxic response of arsenic trioxide was observed in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells, as evident by (3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) and lactate dehydrogenase assays after 24 and 48 hours of exposure. Arsenic trioxide elicited a significant (P < 0.01) reduction in glutathione (15.67% and 26.52%), with a concomitant increase in malondialdehyde level (67.80% and 72.25%; P < 0.01), superoxide dismutase (76.42% and 81.09%; P < 0.01), catalase (73.33% and 76.47%; P < 0.01), and reactive oxygen species generation (44.04% and 56.14%; P < 0.01) after 24 and 48 hours of exposure, respectively. Statistically significant (P < 0.01) induction of DNA damage was observed by the comet assay in cells exposed to arsenic trioxide. It was also observed that apoptosis occurred through activation of caspase-3 and phosphatidylserine externalization in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells exposed to arsenic trioxide.Conclusion: The results demonstrate that arsenic trioxide induces apoptosis and genotoxicity in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells through reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress.Keywords: arsenic trioxide, DNA damage, hepatocellular carcinoma cells, oxidative stress, apoptosis

Abstract Background This work aims to investigate existing methodologies that have been used to establish diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for common computed tomography angiography (CTA) examinations in adult patients by analyzing published national and local DRL studies. A detailed search through Science Direct, Web of Science, EBSCO host, PubMed–Medline, and Google Scholar was conducted. The preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analyses methodology was also used to evaluate the selected articles. Studies were selected via the PICOS method and included only DRL studies established for CTA examinations. Case studies, posters, reviews, and meta-analyses were excluded. The literature review identified 21 publications, 15 proposed a national DRL survey, and 6 studies with local (facility) data. Results A noticeable variation in DRL quantities for the same CTA procedures was noted among studies. Several factors contributed to this variability, including the methodologies used for establishing CTA DRLs, variations in scanning protocols, number of scanning phases, and scanner type. Conclusion There is a need for a global standardization for DRL establishment methods aligned with recent recommendations from prominent international radiation protection bodies to facilitate accurate comparisons of radiation dose metrics both between and within CT imaging facilities.

Introduction: Heparin, a commonly used anticoagulant in cardiac surgery, binds to antithrombin III (ATIII) to prevent clot formation. However, heparin resistance (HR) can complicate surgical procedures, leading to increased thromboembolic risks and bleeding complications. Proper diagnosis and management of HR are essential for optimizing surgical outcomes. Methodology: Diagnosis of HR involves assessing activated clotting time (ACT) and HR assays. Management strategies were identified through a comprehensive review of the literature, including studies exploring heparin dosage adjustments, antithrombin supplementation, and alternative anticoagulants in cardiac surgery patients with HR. A thorough search of relevant studies on HR was conducted using multiple scholarly databases and relevant keywords, resulting in 59 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Discussion: HR occurs when patients do not respond adequately to heparin therapy, requiring higher doses or alternative anticoagulants. Mechanisms of HR include AT III deficiency, PF4 interference, and accelerated heparin clearance. Diagnosis involves assessing ACT and HR assays. HR in cardiac surgery can lead to thromboembolic events, increased bleeding, prolonged hospital stays, and elevated healthcare costs. Management strategies include adjusting heparin dosage, supplementing antithrombin levels, and considering alternative anticoagulants. Multidisciplinary management of HR involves collaboration among various specialities. Strategies include additional heparin doses, fresh frozen plasma (FFP) administration, and antithrombin concentrate supplementation. Emerging alternatives to heparin, such as direct thrombin inhibitors and nafamostat mesilate, are also being explored. Conclusion: Optimizing the management of HR is crucial for improving surgical outcomes and reducing complications in cardiac surgery patients. Multidisciplinary approaches and emerging anticoagulation strategies hold promise for addressing this challenge effectively.

Background: The del Nido cardioplegia solution is a widely used method for myocardial protection in various settings. However, there is limited evidence of its effectiveness in adult cardiac surgery, and the baseline solution, Plasma Lyte A, is not readily available, leading to the use of alternative baseline solutions. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of routine del Nido cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery and the impact of different baseline solutions on myocardial protection and other perioperative outcomes. Methods: This study was a prospective, double-blind randomized parallel group clinical trial conducted at a single tertiary care hospital in Iran. A total of 187 adult patients were evaluated for eligibility, of which 120 met the inclusion criteria for elective isolated CABG surgery. The patients were randomly assigned to three groups, with each group consisting of 40 patients. The control group received a normal saline-based routine del Nido cardioplegia, Intervention Group A received Ringer lactate-based del Nido cardioplegia, and Intervention Group B received plain Ringer-based del Nido cardioplegia. The levels of Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB), Troponin T, Troponin I, and lactate were primarily assessed at four different times: after anesthesia induction (Baseline), 2 h, 12 h, and 24 h. Results: Preoperative demographic and clinical characteristics were the same among groups with insignificant differences (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference among groups based on CK-MB, Troponin T, Troponin I, and lactate levels (p = 0.078, 0.143, 0.311, and 0.129 respectively). However, there was a significant difference in the time effect of Troponin T and Lactate (p = 0.034, p =

Abstract Improving the reliability and power quality of unbalanced distribution networks is crucial for ensuring consistent and reliable electricity supply. In this research, multi-objective optimization of unbalanced distribution networks reconfiguration integrated with wind turbine allocation (MORWTA) is implemented considering uncertainties of networks load, and also wind power incorporating a stochastic framework. The multi-objective function is defined by the minimization of power loss, voltage sag (VS), total harmonic distortion (THD), voltage unbalance (VU), energy not-supplied (ENS), system average interruption frequency index (SAIFI), system average interruption duration index (SAIDI), and momentary average interruption frequency (MAIFI). A new improved dandelion optimizer (IDO) with adaptive inertia weight is recommended to counteract premature convergence to identify decision variables, including the optimal network configuration through opened switches and the best location and size of wind turbines in the networks. The stochastic problem is modeled using the 2m + 1 point estimate method (PEM) combined with K-means clustering, taking into account the mentioned uncertainties. The proposed stochastic methodology is implemented on three modified 33-bus, and unbalanced 25-, and 37-bus distribution networks. The results demonstrated that the MORWTA enhanced all study objectives in comparison to the base networks. The results also demonstrated that the IDO had superior capability to solve the deterministic- and stochastic-MORWTA in comparison to the conventional DO, grey wolf optimizer (GWO), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and arithmetic optimization algorithm (AOA) in terms of achieving greater objective value. Moreover, the results demonstrated that when the stochastic-MORWTA model is considered, the power loss, VS, THD, VU, ENS, SAIFI, SAIDI, and MAIFI are increased by 18.35%, 9.07%, 10.43%, 12.46%, 11.90%, 9.28%, 12.16% and 14.36%, respectively for 25-bus network, and also these objectives are increased by 12.21%, 10.64%, 12.37%, 9.82%, 14.30%, 12.65%, 12.63% and 13.89%, respectively for 37-bus network compared to the deterministic-MORWTA model, which is related to the defined uncertainty patterns.

Abstract Combined hydrogen, heat, and power (CHHP) is the cogeneration unit simultaneously meeting hydrogen, heat, and power demands. Due to the low efficiency of the electrolyser, the main grid or other generation units supply its input power. Herein, the photovoltaic farm's (PV farm) output power is used as the input power of the electrolyser. Optimal economic and emission scheduling of CHHP‐based microgrid (CHHP_MG) is defined as an objective function. To improve system efficiency, the scheduling problem is done in two cases, reconfigured SP‐PV farm and conventional SP‐PV farm. To optimal management of both demand and generation sides, a time of use (TOU) based demand response program is employed in the proposed short‐term study. To have a comprehensive study, the optimum solar panel tilt angle is calculated, and its impacts on the main function are analysed. Multi‐objective genetic algorithm is used to solve optimization problems. By solving the objective function, the obtained values for profit and pollution amount are 620$ and 69,245.78 gr, respectively. By applying the load response program, the mentioned values are changed to 715.132$ and 6872.5 gr. Since the input power is supplied through solar panels, the placement angle of the panels is very important and with the optimal setting of the placement angle, the values change to 780$ and 6825.3 gr.

In the western boundary region of Central Iran with Sanandaj-Sirjan, considering the widespread carbonate units in the northeastern Isfahan area, the barite deposits have considerable potential. The Komsheche barite, hosted in the Middle Triassic Shotori dolomite Formation, is the most active mine in the region. Barite mineralization has occurred in two styles, banded-layered and veined-brecciated. Fluid inclusions in the bedded barite homogenize at temperatures from 78 to 122 ºC, with salinity between 10.9 to 17.0 wt.% eq. NaCl, while the homogenization temperature for two-phase inclusions of the second type barite is between 130 to 187 ºC and associated halite-bearing tri-phase inclusions range from 192 to 210 ºC, with an average salinity of 14.3 and 36.6 wt.% eq. NaCl, respectively. The δ34S values of the samples range from 18.40 to 26.34 per mil CDT, and their δ18O values range from 8.9 to 14.7 per mil SMOW. Based on conducted studies, ore-forming fluids were formed in an open and near-bottom seawater system during the early diagenetic stage. The heavy isotope values related to pore water are locked in a closed system during the final stages of diagenetic. Sedimentary type, associated minerals, REE composition, finding of fluid inclusion and isotope reveal that Komsheche barite has the most similarity to diagenetic/cold-seep types of marine barites. Introduction In the western border of Central Iran zone with Sanandaj-Sirjan, according to the extent of carbonate units in the northeastern area of Isfahan, barite deposits have considerable potential. Part of the barytization is formed in the Middle Triassic host rock (such as Komsheche and Lamar) and part in the Lower Cretaceous host rock (such as Pinavand, Bagharabad, Maste-Kouh, Khase-Tarash and east of Mourcheh-Khort), which indicates that these sequences are prone to more discoveries in the future. These barites are unique in terms of sedimentary structure, and the Komsheche deposit is one of the representative examples of strata bound barite deposits in the Triassic sedimentary sequences of this area. Considering that the development of barite mineralization in the Triassic carbonate sequence is still in a halo of ambiguity, in this research, in addition to stratigraphic studies and investigation of the characteristics of mineralization, the mechanism of barite deposition has been tried using the mineralogical studies, the stable isotopes composition, and the fluid inclusions of barite are described. Materials and methods Field surveys were conducted to study ore layers by observing sedimentary characteristics and collecting samples from both host rock and ore. These samples were then analyzed in the laboratory through petrographic and mineralogical studies in the laboratory. Five samples were analysed by ICP-MS at the Zarazma laboratory to quantify major, minor, and rare earth elements. The study of fluid inclusions was conducted using the Linkham THM600 at University of Isfahan. The sulfur and oxygen isotopic composition in the Komsheche deposit was measured using a mass spectrometer. Values of δ34S and δ18O are expressed in parts per thousand or per mil (‰) using the Standard Canon Diablo Troilite (CDT) and Standard Sea Water (SMOW), respectively. Results and discussion The oldest rocks in the Komsheche mining area are assigned to the weathered orange-brown Shotori deposits of the Middle Triassic. These deposits are widespread and have a rough appearance. The lower layer, related to the Sorkh-Shale Formation (Lower Triassic), is not visible in Komsheche. The Nayband Formation, from the Upper Triassic age, consists of coaly shales and dark siltstone with interlayers of quartzitic sandstone. The Jurassic sequence is not visible in the Komsheche area, and no rocks containing Jurassic fossils have been observed in the red conglomerate of the Cretaceous base. The lack of sedimentation from the end of the Late Triassic to the Early Cretaceous may be due to the Cimmerian orogeny. The thin layers of sandstone and red conglomerate at the base of the Lower Cretaceous, with a thickness of up to 2 meters thick, consist of Shotori dolomite and siliceous rocks. This sequence begins without metamorphism but has a sudden change in lithology from clastic to carbonate. In the eastern parts, there is a thick layer of coarse-grained limestone, while the western parts are a sequence of olive-green marls, limestones, and sandy limestones of the Late Cretaceous age with orbitulina and ammonite fossils. Field studies, facies analysis, and laboratory research focusing on shape, mineralogy, texture, and grade indicate that the barite mineralization at the Komsheche mine can be categorized into two main types: banded and veined/brecciated. a) Type 1: The banded facies, which is widespread, contains lower-grade mineral material. It shows a stratification consistent with the host rock, with barite and host rock alternating over a thickness of less than 10 meters and a length of 700 meters. These facies, part of the Shotori dolomite sequence, is the primary mineralized horizon. The presence of interfinger structures of barite and dolomite crystals suggests simultaneous formation in unconsolidated sediments. b) Type II: The veined/brecciated facies, located near the center of the ore deposit, occurs as vein and shear masses formed along reverse faults. This facies represents the high-grade portion of the mine, and it is mined by through open-pit mining. These veins formations are commonly found at the boundary between the Shotori carbonates and the Nayband Formation, with dolomitization and limited silicification in the host rock. Barite veins are typically less than 1.5 meters thick, are surrounded by shear zones less than 2 meters wide. A homogenization temperature (Th) was conducted on 17 primary fluid inclusions (F.I) trapped in barite minerals from both the stratabound and veined/brecciated facies of the Komsheche deposit. The results of the analyzed fluid inclusions are presented in Table 3. In the first type barite, most fluid inclusions are single-phase liquid (L) or two-phase liquid-rich (L>V). The homogenization temperature ranges from 78 to 122 ºC, and the salinity levels range from 10.9 to 17.0 wt.% eq. NaCl. For the second type of barite, the fluid inclusions are predominantly two-phase liquid-rich (L>V), single-phase liquid (L), or three-phase with a solid phase of halite (LVH). The homogenization temperature for the two-phase inclusions of the second type is higher, ranging from 130 to 187ºC, while the three-phase inclusions with halite range from 192 to 210 ºC. The salinity levels for the second type of two-phase inclusions range from 9.5 to 16.0 wt.% eq. NaCl, and for the three-phase inclusions, it ranges from 36.2 to 37.0 wt.% eq. NaCl. The sulfur isotope values (δ34S) of the barite samples range from 18.40 to 26.34 ‰ CDT, while their oxygen isotope values (δ18O) range from 9.8 to 14.7 ‰ SMOW. The sulfur isotope values indicate isotopic diversity. A comparison with previous data (22.6 to 26.7 ‰) reported by (Forghani Tehrani, 2003; Rajabzadeh, 2007) shows differences in the distribution of measured sulfur isotope values, as shown in Table 4. According to the latest diagenetic models, sedimentary barite layers are formed at the sulfate-methane transition zone (SMTZ) during hydrocarbon migration. Based on this study, it was found that barite mineralizing fluids in the initial diagenesis stage were found to have temperatures below 120 ºC and a salinity of about 13 wt.% eq. NaCl. These fluids form near the seafloor in a shallow sea open system where sulfate supply is associated with anaerobic oxidation of methane as a mechanism for the reduction of sulfate to H2S. Barite formation occurs in shallow marine environments through by downward sulfate diffusion and the transfer of hydrocarbons and barium from depth upwards. The periodic formation of barite layers is related to the stability of the SMTZ. In an open system, barite retains the oxygen and sulfur isotope values of the coeval seawater. Barite precipitation occurs by fluid cooling, fluid mixing, and/or water-rock interaction. In the final diagenesis stages, heavy isotope amounts are linked to formation water in closed systems with high water- rock ratios. Veined barite, which is younger, may forms at deeper levels along faults over an extended period, completely replacing the host rock entirely. It is unlikely that veined barite forms near the sea floor. Deep fluids are heating by the geothermal gradient. This research suggests that the barite in question is similar to marine barites found off the coast of Southern California in diagenetic/cold seep environments.

Abstract The effect of nanofluids on the melting process of PCMs (RT58 paraffin wax) in a rectangle container is a topic of interest for many researchers. The use of nanofluids in PCMs can lead to faster and more efficient melting, resulting in improved energy storage and cooling performance. This paper has studied four cases with varying percentages of nanofluids. The percentage of nanofluid in PCM can affect the material's thermal conductivity and heat transfer performance. By varying the percentage of nanofluids, researchers aim to optimize the use of these in PCMs to achieve the best melting performance. Findings have shown that increasing the percentage of nanofluids in PCM can lead to improved thermal conductivity and heat transfer performance. However, at high concentrations (30% percent), the viscosity of the nanofluid can increase, leading to a decrease in heat transfer performance. Results show that at 30 min, PCM with 30% nanofluid melts 13.79% more than PCM without. Using 20% nanofluid in the PCM results in a melting percentage of 7.41%, decreasing to 3.85% at 10%.The specific application and the type of nanofluid used determine the optimal concentration of nanofluid in PCMs. This study is important for the use of phase-change materials in the cooling of large electronic devices.

Abstract Suspensions containing microencapsulated phase change materials (MPCMs) play a crucial role in thermal energy storage (TES) systems and have applications in building materials, textiles, and cooling systems. This study focuses on accurately predicting the dynamic viscosity, a critical thermophysical property, of suspensions containing MPCMs and MXene particles using Gaussian process regression (GPR). Twelve hyperparameters (HPs) of GPR are analyzed separately and classified into three groups based on their importance. Three metaheuristic algorithms, namely genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and marine predators algorithm (MPA), are employed to optimize HPs. Optimizing the four most significant hyperparameters (covariance function, basis function, standardization, and sigma) within the first group using any of the three metaheuristic algorithms resulted in excellent outcomes. All algorithms achieved a reasonable R-value (0.9983), demonstrating their effectiveness in this context. The second group explored the impact of including additional, moderate-significant HPs, such as the fit method, predict method and optimizer. While the resulting models showed some improvement over the first group, the PSO-based model within this group exhibited the most noteworthy enhancement, achieving a higher R-value (0.99834). Finally, the third group was analyzed to examine the potential interactions between all twelve HPs. This comprehensive approach, employing the GA, yielded an optimized GPR model with the highest level of target compliance, reflected by an impressive R-value of 0.999224. The developed models are a cost-effective and efficient solution to reduce laboratory costs for various systems, from TES to thermal management.

Abstract Background This meta-analysis aims to establish a more precise association between gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) incidence and H. pylori infection by amalgamating findings from prior case–control and cohort studies. Methods To identify relevant studies, we conducted a comprehensive search using the Excerpta Medica Database (Embase), PubMed (Medline), Web of Science (ISI), and Scopus from January 1990 to November 2022. The screening process involved reviewing the entire text, abstracts, and titles of retrieved articles. Subsequently, data extraction was performed from the selected articles, and their quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale checklist. Version 17 of STATA software was utilized for the analysis, with relative risks (RR) calculated along with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) to quantify the impact of the included studies. Results This meta-analysis included eight observational and analytical studies. The combined risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in pregnant women with H. pylori infection was found to be 1.97 times higher compared to pregnant women without infection (RR: 1.97; 95% CI 1.57–2.47; I2 = 0.00%; P = 0.84). Conclusion Pregnant women with H. pylori infection are at an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes.

Abstract Background Within the manufacturing sector, assembly processes relying on mechanical fasteners such as nuts, washers, and bolts hold critical importance. Presently, these fasteners undergo manual inspection or are identified by human operators, a practice susceptible to errors that can adversely affect product efficiency and safety. Given considerations such as time constraints, escalating facility and labor expenses, and the imperative of seamless integration, the integration of machine vision into assembly operations has become imperative. Results This study endeavors to construct a robust system grounded in deep learning algorithms to autonomously identify commonly used fasteners and delineate their attributes (e.g., thread type, head type) with acceptable precision. A dataset comprising 6084 images featuring 150 distinct fasteners across various classes was assembled. The dataset was partitioned into training, validation, and testing sets at a ratio of 7.5:2:0.5, respectively. Two prominent object detection algorithms, Mask-RCNN (regional-based convolutional neural network) and You Look Only Once-v5 (YOLO v5), were evaluated for efficiency and accuracy in fastener identification. The findings revealed that YOLO v5 surpassed Mask-RCNN in processing speed and attained an mean average precision (MAP) of 99%. Additionally, YOLO v5 showcased superior performance conducive to real-time deployment. Conclusions The development of a resilient system employing deep learning algorithms for fastener identification within assembly processes signifies a significant stride in manufacturing technology. This study underscores the efficacy of YOLO v5 in achieving exceptional accuracy and efficiency, thereby augmenting the automation and dependability of assembly operations in manufacturing environments. Such advancements hold promise for streamlining production processes, mitigating errors, and enhancing overall productivity in the manufacturing sector.

Objective(s): For safe and effective gene therapy, the ability to deliver the therapeutic nucleic acid to the target sites is crucial. In this study, lactosylated lipid phosphate calcium nanoparticles (lac-LCP) were developed for targeted delivery of pDNA to the hepatocyte cells. The lac-LCP formulation contained lactose-modified cholesterol (CHL), a ligand that binds to the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGR) expressed on hepatocytes, and polyethyleneimine (PEI) in the core. Materials and Methods: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) were used to monitor the chemical modification, and the physicochemical properties of NPs were studied using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). To evaluate transfection efficiency, cellular uptake and GFP expression were assessed using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry. Results: The results revealed that lactose-targeted particles (lac-LCP) had a significant increase in cellular uptake by hepatocytes. The inclusion of a low molecular weight PEI (1.8 KDa) with a low PEI/pDNA ratio of 1 in the core of LCP, elicited high degrees of GFP protein expression (by 5 and 6-fold), which exhibited significantly higher efficiency than PEI 1.8 KDa and Lipofectamine. Conclusion: The successful functionalization and nuclear delivery of LCP NPs described here indicate its promise as an efficient delivery vector to hepatocyte nuclei.

Abstract Fault detection and isolation in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) propellers are critical for operational safety and efficiency. Most existing fault diagnosis techniques rely basically on traditional statistical-based methods that necessitate better approaches. This study explores the application of untraditional feature extraction methodologies, namely Permutation Entropy (PE), Lempel–Ziv Complexity (LZC), and Teager–Kaiser Energy Operator (TKEO), on the PADRE dataset, which encapsulates various rotor fault configurations. The extracted features were subjected to a Chi-Square (χ2) feature selection process to identify the most significant features for input into a Deep Neural Network. The Taguchi method was utilized to test the performance of the recorded features, correspondingly. Performance metrics, including Accuracy, F1-Score, Precision, and Recall, were employed to evaluate the model’s effectiveness before and after the feature selection. The achieved accuracy has increased by 0.9% when compared with results utilizing traditional statistical methods. Comparative analysis with prior research reveals that the proposed untraditional features surpass traditional methods in diagnosing UAV propeller faults. It resulted in improved performance metrics with Accuracy, F1-Score, Precision, and Recall reaching 99.6%, 99.5%, 99.5%, and 99.5%, respectively. The results suggest promising directions for future research in UAV maintenance and safety protocols.

Extended Abstract Background: Climate change directly impacts hydrological components, water resources, and watershed outflow. Calculating the amount of possible changes in rainfall and runoff will play an important role in the policy-making and planning of water resources under climate change conditions. In this research, runoff simulation in the eastern watersheds of Mazandaran province (Talar, Tajan, Nekarood, and Babolrood) was investigated under the impact of climate change in the future period (2021-2040). Methods: In this research, one of the atmospheric-ocean general circulation models, named HadGEM2, was used under climate scenarios (RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5) to investigate climate change. The Lars-WG model was used for the downscaling of climate data during three stages of data calibration, data evaluation, and meteorological data generation for the future period. This purpose was achieved using the daily data of rainfall, maximum and minimum temperatures, and sunshine hours of the selected stations of four watersheds in the current period (1997-2016), and the model was implemented for the base period. After ensuring the ability of the Lars-WG model to simulate meteorological data by comparing the data produced by the HadGEM2 model and the observational data of the base period, this model was implemented to generate future data using climate scenarios (RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5). The daily values of the climate data of rainfall, maximum and minimum temperatures and sunshine hours were produced and simulated for the next 40 years (2021- 2060). Runoff simulation in the future period and the effect of climate change on runoff were investigated with the IHACRES hydrological model, which is a continuous conceptual-dynamic model for simulating rainfall-runoff at the watershed scale, using climate scenarios. For this purpose, the daily data of rainfall, mean temperature, and discharge of the current period (1997-2016) in four watersheds were introduced into the IHACRES software. Then, the 1997-2008 and 2009-2016 periods were selected for calibration and validation, respectively, to determine the ability of the IHACRES model to simulate future runoff. After calibration and validation, the climate data produced by the HadGEM2 model were introduced into IHACRES, and the daily series of discharge was predicted for the future period (2021-2040). Then, the annual average of the observed discharges in the current period and the simulated discharges in the future period under the RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5 scenarios, as well as the 20-year average runoff in the stations in the future period, were compared and evaluated with the observation period. Results: The results of the climate change investigation showed that mean monthly minimum and maximum temperatures in all months of the future period would increase in all four watersheds in both scenarios RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5 compared to the current period (1997-2016). Compared to the current period, the mean monthly rainfall in both scenarios does not have a constant trend and is different in various months. The results of the runoff simulation show that the changes in the discharge of the watersheds under the effect of climate change are not constant compared to the discharge of the current period. This could be attributed to the inconsistency of the trend of changes in the precipitation of the future period compared to the current period. Despite the increase in the average rainfall, the discharge will decrease in some years in the future period, which can probably be related to the increase in temperature in the future period due to climate change. Despite the decrease in the average rainfall of that year, the increase in discharge could be caused by, for example, the possibility of heavy rains or showers in that year, thereby increasing the amount of discharge. Compared to the current period, the 20-year mean of the predicted discharge has decreased in the selected stations (Talar, Tajan, and Nekarood watersheds) in the future period for both scenarios. In the station considered for the Babolrood watershed, however, this value has increased in the RCP 2.6 scenario compared to the current period. In the Polsefid station of the Talar watershed, the simulated discharge under the RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5 scenarios was equal to 6.18 and 6.12 m3/s, respectively, which shows a decrease compared to the observed discharge of 7.41 m3/s. In the Soleimantange station of the Tajan watershed, the predicted discharge under the RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5 scenarios was equal to 7.33 and 7.29 m3/s, respectively, which has decreased compared to the observed discharge of 9.82 m3/s. In the Sefidchah station of the Nekarood watershed, the simulated discharge under the RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5 scenarios was equal to 3.85 and 3.72 m3/s, which reveals a decline compared to the observed discharge of 4.10 m3/s. In the Babol station of the Babolrood watershed, however, the discharge under the RCP 2.6 scenario was predicted to be equal to 11.40 m3/s, which has increased compared to the discharge (11.34 m3/s) during the observation period. Under the RCP 8.5 scenario, it was simulated with a value of 11.22 m3/s, less than the observed discharge. Conclusion: In general, the impact of climate change on water resources is one of the major challenges facing water resources planners and can have serious consequences for ecosystems and communities. Based on the findings of the research and the importance of climate change effects on the hydrological conditions of the watersheds in the study area, it is necessary to apply appropriate policies for the sustainable management of water resources.

Today, the emergence of composite structures can be considered a huge transformation on an industrial scale, especially in the transportation industry. Among all the structures made by the composite process, aluminum-based composites (AMMCs) are particularly popular both in the scientific and industrial fields. These structures are very light in weight and, at the same time, have significant strength. The ability to work with the machine in these structures is very high, and their plastic deformation is so high that they can be used in different industry sectors. Today, various methods are used to induce plastic deformation in aluminum-based composites (AMMCs). One of these methods is called aggregate accumulative press bonding (APB). The advantage of this method compared to other methods is that this method can create a homogeneous nanocomposite with ultra-fine grains. In the present study, the investigation of mechanical properties (MP's) of AA5083/5%SiC bulk composites fabricated via APB vs. pressing temperature (Temp) was conducted. All primary composite samples were fabricated via the stir-casting process (SCP). APB process was done on composite samples as a supplementary process. Finally, the effect of pressing Temp on the MP and microstructural properties (MSP) was investigated. The pressing Temp was varied between the ambient Temp's up to T = 300 °C. The MP were measured in this study by the Vickers micro-hardness (VMH) test, tensile test, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was realized that the pressing Temp has a prominent effect on the MS and MP of fabricated 400°C. Samples fabricated at the ambient Temp have low ductility and high strength while for samples fabricated at T = 300 °C, the elongation and toughness values were higher than others. The TS of samples after 2 steps of APB at T = 200°C is 1.31 times more than that of fabricated at T = 300°C. Elongation was reduced sharply to 1.8% after the two steps at the ambient Temp, while it was 21% for the annealed AA5083.

Abstract Investigation of histopathology slides by pathologists is an indispensable component of the routine diagnosis of cancer. Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy, improve efficiency, and patient outcomes in clinical pathology. However, variations in tissue preparation, staining protocols, and histopathology slide digitization could result in over-fitting of deep learning models when trained on the data from only one center, thereby underscoring the necessity to generalize deep learning networks for multi-center use. Several techniques, including the use of grayscale images, color normalization techniques, and Adversarial Domain Adaptation (ADA) have been suggested to generalize deep learning algorithms, but there are limitations to their effectiveness and discriminability. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) exhibit higher sensitivity to variations in the amplitude spectrum, whereas humans predominantly rely on phase-related components for object recognition. As such, we propose Adversarial fourIer-based Domain Adaptation (AIDA) which applies the advantages of a Fourier transform in adversarial domain adaptation. We conducted a comprehensive examination of subtype classification tasks in four cancers, incorporating cases from multiple medical centers. Specifically, the datasets included multi-center data for 1113 ovarian cancer cases, 247 pleural cancer cases, 422 bladder cancer cases, and 482 breast cancer cases. Our proposed approach significantly improved performance, achieving superior classification results in the target domain, surpassing the baseline, color augmentation and normalization techniques, and ADA. Furthermore, extensive pathologist reviews suggested that our proposed approach, AIDA, successfully identifies known histotype-specific features. This superior performance highlights AIDA’s potential in addressing generalization challenges in deep learning models for multi-center histopathology datasets.

Abstract Background Appreciating the various dimensions of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic can improve health systems and prepare them to deal better with future pandemics and public health events. This study was conducted to investigate the association between the survival of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and the epidemic risk stratification of the disease in Golestan province, Iran. Methods In this study, all patients with COVID-19 who were hospitalized in the hospitals of Golestan province of Iran from February 20, 2020, to December 19, 2022, and were registered in the Medical Care Monitoring Center (MCMC) system (85,885 individuals) were examined.The community's epidemic risk status (ERS) was determined based on the daily incidence statistics of COVID-19. The survival distribution and compare Survival in different subgroups was investigated using Kaplan–Meier and log-rank test and association between the survival and ERS by multiple Cox regression modeling. Results Out of 68,983 individuals whose data were correctly recorded, the mean age was 49 (SD = 23.98) years, and 52.8% were women. In total, 11.1% eventually died. The length of hospital stay was varying significantly with age, gender, ERS, underlying diseases, and COVID-19 severity (P

Background: The dilation and torsion of testicular veins in the plexus pampiniformis causes Varicocele, which is asurgically repairable cause of male infertility. This study assessed the impact of varicocelectomy on semen characteristics,total motile sperm count (TMSC) and sperm DNA integrity in patients with severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia(OAT).Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, semen samples of 360 men with severe OAT who underwentvaricocelectomy according to World Health Organization (WHO) criteria 2021 were studied (pre-operatively and at 6,12, and 18 months post-operatively).Results: The average age of our patients was 38.5 years. The mean spermatozoa concentration was found to be 1.60 ±0.83 million/ml pre-operatively, while the mean post-operative concentration was 5.17 ± 1.23 million/ml at 6 months,8.32 ± 0.98 million/ml at 12 months, and 13.51 ± 1.48 million/ml at 18 months (P

Background. Brain stroke is the second most common cause of death and the first cause of disability in Iran. Most stroke-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. This epidemiological study was conducted due to insufficient studies and generally with a small sample size in the country, aiming at identifying the main risk factors for stroke in East Azarbaijan province. Methods. This cross-sectional study was performed using data gathered from 5430 patients with a definite diagnosis of brain stroke registered in the Tabriz Stroke Registration System (TSR) between February 2015 and June 2021 in the referral hospitals of East Azerbaijan. Analyses were performed using STATA software (version 17). Descriptive statistics were calculated, and a chi-square test was run. It is worth mentioning that any was considered statistically significant. Results. The epidemiological profile of the main risk factors was presented in the framework of clinical trials and findings, clinical risk factors, and behavioral risk factors associated with brain stroke. The mean age of the patients was 69.52±15.72 years; 47.15% were female and 52.85% were male. The most common risk factors include: having high blood pressure (67.81%), snoring (32.06%), diabetes mellitus (22.23%), familial history of stroke (18.78%), ischemic heart disease (17.55%), aspiration pneumonia (15.32%), smoking (13.65%), atrial fibrillation (10.15%), and hyperlipidemia (8.42%). Ischemic brain stroke (68.20%) was more common than hemorrhagic brain stroke (31.80%). Smoking was significantly higher in men than women. The prevalence of hypertension, atrial fibrillation (P=0.001), and hyperlipidemia was significantly higher in women than men. There was a direct and significant relationship between atrial fibrillation and age and female gender (P=0.001). Conclusion. The main risk factors for brain stroke include high blood pressure, snoring, diabetes mellitus, ischemic heart disease, aspiration pneumonia, smoking, atrial fibrillation, and hyperlipidemia, respectively. Hypertension is the most common risk factor among patients, so screening for asymptomatic cases is recommended. Educating people about common clinical manifestations can help expedite their early referral and treatment.

Background: Severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT), characterized by a reduced sperm count, motility, andaltered morphology, presents a significant challenge in the field of male infertility. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), renownedfor its regenerative capabilities, emerges as a potential intervention for this condition. This study aims toexplore the impact of PRP on male infertility, focusing specifically on individuals with severe OAT.Materials and Methods: The clinical trial study involved 88 infertile men diagnosed with OAT and devoid of underlyingdiseases. These participants were referred to the infertility center and subsequently divided into two cohorts: acontrol (44 individuals) and an intervention group (44 individuals). Patients in the intervention group received 2 ccof PRP in each testicle, prepared by centrifuging the patients autologous blood samples. Sperm parameters and DNAfragmentation index (DFI) of the patients were measured before and after the procedure. Statistical analysis usedSPSS version 16 software, with a significance level set at less than 5%.Results: The statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in concentration (11.32 ± 8.44 vs. 16.06 ± 15.16,P=0.030), progressive motility (8.86 ± 7.79 vs. 11.97 ± 11.82%, P=0.014) and DNA fragmentation (25.62 ± 12.84 vs.17.23 ± 9.15%, P

Extended Abstract Background: The increased demand for cereals that are consumed by humans and livestock can be met through the development of planting drought-tolerant genotypes. Due to the interaction of genotypes × environment, the best genotype in one environment may not be the best in other environments, and therefore, this interaction provides valuable information about the yield of each genotype in different environments and plays an important role in evaluating yield stability. Genetic modification of drought tolerance in crops is one of the most stable and cost-effective approaches to increase production and yield stability. Examining the compatibility and stability of grain yield based on various parametric and non-parametric stability statistics and evaluating tolerance to drought stress based on stress indices in promising barley genotypes of the country's temperate climate are among the goals of this research. Methods: To assess grain yield adaptation and stability and to select high-yielding barley genotypes suitable for terminal drought stress in the temperate climate of Iran, 16 barley genotypes were cultivated during two crop years 2021-2023 in a randomized complete blocks design with three replications in three research stations including Varamin, Birjand, and Yazd under two none-stress and drought stress conditions at the end of the season (12 environments). After determining the grain yield, stress indices, including MP, GMP, TOL, HARM, STI, YI, YSI, RSI, and SSI, and the correlation of each with grain yield were calculated in this study. Stability statistics included Nassar and Huehn’s stability statistics (S(1-6)), Thennarasu’s stability statistics (NP(1-4)), deviation from regression (S²dᵢ), regression coefficient (b), Shukla’s stability variance (σ²ᵢ), environmental variation coefficient (CV), variance component (θᵢ), coefficient of variance (θ(i)), Wricke’s ecovalence (Wᵢ²), and Kang’s sum of ranks (KR). Their relationships were calculated based on Pearson’s correlation. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), mean comparison, and simple correlation were calculated using the SAS-9.0 program, stability statistics were calculated using STABILITYSOFT and principal component analysis (PCA). Stress indices and the correlation of each of these indices with grain yield were calculated using iPASTIC. The three-dimensional distribution diagram of genotypes in the ranges of A, B, C, and D was drawn using Grapher software. Results: The results of the combined ANOVA indicated the significance of the genotype × environment interaction. According to S(1-2) statistics, G7, G10, G11, and G3, and according to S(3-6) statistics, G7, G3, and G9 were the most stable genotypes. Among the non-parametric Thennarasu’s stability statistics according to the NP(1) criterion of G9, G3, and G5, according to NP(2) G5, G3, and G8, and according to NP(3) and NP(4) criteria, G7, G3, and G9 were recognized as the most stable genotypes. Based on Wricke (W²) and Shukla (σ²) equivalency stability statistics, G3, G9, and G13 were the most stable genotypes. Based on Eberhart and Russell's regression method, G9, G7, and G3 genotypes, with high yields, had general compatibility and good yield stability. Based on Francis and Kannenberg (CVi), genotypes G1, G2, and G15 had the lowest coefficients of environmental variation. Based on the average rank of each genotype in all stress indices (AR), G2, G7, and G3 genotypes were the most tolerant, and G14, G11, and G10 were the most sensitive genotypes to drought stress at the end of seasons, respectively. In the drought stress conditions at the end of the season, grain yield had positive and significant correlations with YI, HM, GMP, STI, MP, YSI, and RSI indices and negative and significant correlations with the SSI index. In non-stress conditions, grain yield had positive and significant correlations with MP, GMP, STI, HM, and YI indices, but no significant correlations were observed between grain yield and SSI, TOL, YSI, and RSI indices. The PCA revealed that the first and the second principal components explained 69.71% and 30.27% of the variance of the main variables, respectively. The first main component had a positive and high correlation with yield in both stressed and non-stressed environments, as well as MP, STI, GMP, and HM indices. The second component showed a positive and high correlation with grain yield in the non-stressed environment and TOL and SSI indices; it also had negative and high correlations with RSI and YSI indices. Based on the biplot diagram, G3, G7, G8, G9, G12, and G13 presented higher grain yield potential and are more tolerant to drought stress. Conclusion: In this study, grain yield had negative and significant correlations with NP(3), KR, NP(2), NP(4), S(6), and S(1) statistics, respectively, therefore these statistics can be used for identifying stable genotypes. G3, G7, and G9 with averages of 6732.9, 6730.6, and 6608.1 kg/ha, respectively, not only produced the highest grain yield but also showed the highest grain yield stability and tolerance to terminal drought stress among the studied genotypes based on the total ranking of all studied stability statistics and stress indices. Therefore, they can be used as new cultivars in drought-affected regions in temperate climates or as desirable genetic materials in barley breeding programs for drought tolerance.

Abstract Endometrial cancer (EC) has four molecular subtypes with strong prognostic value and therapeutic implications. The most common subtype (NSMP; No Specific Molecular Profile) is assigned after exclusion of the defining features of the other three molecular subtypes and includes patients with heterogeneous clinical outcomes. In this study, we employ artificial intelligence (AI)-powered histopathology image analysis to differentiate between p53abn and NSMP EC subtypes and consequently identify a sub-group of NSMP EC patients that has markedly inferior progression-free and disease-specific survival (termed ‘p53abn-like NSMP’), in a discovery cohort of 368 patients and two independent validation cohorts of 290 and 614 from other centers. Shallow whole genome sequencing reveals a higher burden of copy number abnormalities in the ‘p53abn-like NSMP’ group compared to NSMP, suggesting that this group is biologically distinct compared to other NSMP ECs. Our work demonstrates the power of AI to detect prognostically different and otherwise unrecognizable subsets of EC where conventional and standard molecular or pathologic criteria fall short, refining image-based tumor classification. This study’s findings are applicable exclusively to females.

Indonesia is ranked 77th in the world in electronic-based government systems, especially the City of Plembang is ranked 89th regarding the evaluation of smart city improvement in Indonesia. One of the latest applications used in the past year is the SIDEMANG application, which is an information system that has the use and purpose of facilitating access to administrative services related to personal and agency licensing files online at the village and sub-district levels in Palembang city, but this is also not free from obstacles, especially internet signals. Therefore, an analysis is needed related to the implementation of Information Systems, to assess the success of applications that have been implemented, especially government digital services. DeLone and McLean Information System Success Model is used, to see the significant factors that cause the success of Information System implementation. The data analysis method used in this research is quantitative because the data collected is in the form of numbers and will be analyzed using the SmartPLS application statistical technique, using a sample size of 97 respondents. The results showed that the information quality factor was not significant to the intention or use of the application, the system quality factor was not significant to the intention or use of the application, the system quality factor was not significant to user satisfaction, the service quality factor was not significant to user satisfaction. Recommendations for the Palembang City Communication and Information Office are related to the evaluation and improvement of the SIDEMANG application using the DeLone and McLean Model analysis. In particular, improvements to the quality of information that can influence citizens to use the application, improvements to the quality of the system that can invite and satisfy users in using the application, and improvements to service quality factors on citizen satisfaction.

Abstract Background Among gynaecological malignancies, endometrial cancer (EC) is the most prevalent type of uterine cancer affecting women. This study explored the proteomic profiles of plasma samples obtained from EC patients, those with hyperplasia (Hy), and a control group (CO). A combination of techniques, such as 2D-DIGE, mass spectrometry, and bioinformatics, including pathway analysis, was used to identify proteins with modified expression levels, biomarkers and their associated metabolic pathways in these groups. Methods Thirty-four patients, categorized into three groups—10 with EC, 12 with Hy, and 12 CO—between the ages of 46 and 75 years old were included in the study. Untargeted proteomic analysis was carried out using two-dimensional difference in gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) coupled with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Results In all three groups, 114 proteins that were significantly (p ≤ 0.05 and fold change ≥ 1.5) altered were successfully identified using peptide mass fingerprints (PMFs). Compared with those in the control group (CO), the EC samples had 85 differentially expressed proteins (39 upregulated and 46 downregulated), and in the Hy group, 81 proteins were dysregulated (40 upregulated and 41 downregulated) compared to those in the CO group, while 33 proteins exhibited differential regulation (12 upregulated and 21 downregulated) in the EC plasma samples compared to those in the Hy group. Vitamin D binding protein and complement C3 distinguished Hy and EC from CO with the greatest changes in expression. Among the differentially expressed proteins identified, enzymes with catalytic activity represented the largest group (42.9%). In terms of biological processes, most of the proteins were involved in cellular processes (28.8%), followed by metabolic processes (16.7%). STRING analysis for protein interactions revealed that the significantly differentially abundant proteins in the three groups are involved in three main biological processes: signalling of complement and coagulation cascades, regulation of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) transport and uptake by insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs), and plasma lipoprotein assembly, remodelling, and clearance. Conclusion The identified plasma protein markers have the potential to serve as biomarkers for differentiating between EC and Hy, as well as for early diagnosis and monitoring of cancer progression.

In this study, the polar root extract of Cyperus scariosus R.Br. was used for the biogenic synthesis of ZnO NPs. The results of this study show that ZnO NPs have a spherical structure with an average size of 85.4 nm. The synthesized catalysts were tested for their photocatalytic activity by degrading methyl orange and methylene blue under sunlight. Improved degradation efficiencies of 79.44% and 84.92% were achieved within 120 min. ZnO NPs exhibited strong antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive Listeria monocytogenes (18 mm) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (20 mm) and Gram-negative strains of Escherichia coli (16 mm) and Bordetella bronchiseptica (14 mm), as shown by the inhibition zones, which were comparable to the positive control (ceftriaxone) but larger than the plant root extract. ZnO NPs showed high antioxidant activity, as a ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay value of 66.29 µg (AAE µg·mL−1) and a DPPH value of 57.44 µg (AAE µg·mL−1) were obtained at a concentration of 500 µL, which was higher than those of the C. scariosus root extract. Quantification of the total phenolic and flavonoid content yielded values of 57.63 µg (GAE µg·mL−1) and 70.59 µg (QCE µg·mL−1), respectively. At a concentration of 500 μL (1 mg·mL−1), the tested nanoparticles (NPs) showed a greater anti-inflammatory effect (84.12%) compared to the root extract of C. scariosus (34.39%). Overall, our findings highlight the versatile properties of green synthesized ZnO NPs and demonstrate their potential for environmental remediation and antimicrobial formulations, as well as promising candidates for further investigation in biomedical fields such as drug delivery and therapy.

Abstract This study proposes the beta-emitting radioisotope 143Pr as a promising candidate for palliative treatment of metastatic bone pain due to its desirable physical decay characteristics. An optimized process was developed for the production and purification of non-carrier-added 143Pr using a medium flux research reactor. Calculations were performed to determine the optimal irradiation time and cooling period for irradiating 1 mg of natural cerium oxide to indirectly produce 143Pr through the decay of 143Ce. Following irradiation and cooling, extraction chromatography was employed to efficiently isolate 143Pr from the irradiated target material. A column containing Ln-resin was used along with nitric acid as the mobile phase and an optional oxidation step with NaBrO3/ascorbic acid to separate 143Pr from impurities such as 143Ce and 141Ce. Radionuclidic purity of over 99.995% was achieved as confirmed through gamma spectroscopy, demonstrating effective separation of 143Pr. Additional quality control analyses established the chemical and radiochemical purity of the purified 143Pr nitrate product. With a half-life of 13.6 days and maximum beta energy of 0.937 MeV, 143Pr exhibits favorable properties for palliative bone pain therapy. This study therefore provides a viable method for producing high-purity 143Pr through the optimized irradiation and purification processes described. Further investigation is warranted to explore potential clinical applications of 143Pr for palliation of metastatic bone cancer pain.

Abstract In this study, a fuzzy multi-objective framework is performed for optimization of a hybrid microgrid (HMG) including photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy sources linked with battery energy storage (PV/WT/BES) in a 33-bus distribution network to minimize the cost of energy losses, minimizing the voltage oscillations as well as power purchased minimization from the HMG incorporated forecasted data. The variables are microgrid optimal location and capacity of the HMG components in the network which are determined through a multi-objective improved Kepler optimization algorithm (MOIKOA) modeled by Kepler’s laws of planetary motion, piecewise linear chaotic map and using the FDMT. In this study, a machine learning approach using a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network (MLP-ANN) has been used to forecast solar radiation, wind speed, temperature, and load data. The optimization problem is implemented in three optimization scenarios based on real and forecasted data as well as the investigation of the battery's depth of discharge in the HMG optimization in the distribution network and its effects on the different objectives. The results including energy losses, voltage deviations, and purchased power from the HMG have been presented. Also, the MOIKOA superior capability is validated in comparison with the multi-objective conventional Kepler optimization algorithm, multi-objective particle swarm optimization, and multi-objective genetic algorithm in problem-solving. The findings are cleared that microgrid multi-objective optimization in the distribution network considering forecasted data based on the MLP-ANN causes an increase of 3.50%, 2.33%, and 1.98%, respectively, in annual energy losses, voltage deviation, and the purchased power cost from the HMG compared to the real data-based optimization. Also, the outcomes proved that increasing the battery depth of discharge causes the BES to have more participation in the HMG effectiveness on the distribution network objectives and affects the network energy losses and voltage deviation reduction.

This research work aims to synthesize environmentally benign and cost-effective metal nanoparticles. In this current research scenario, the leaf extract of Cedrela toona was used as a reducing agent to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed by the color shift of the reaction mixture, i.e., silver nitrate and plant extract, from yellow to dark brown colloidal suspension and was established by UV-visible analysis showing a surface plasmon resonance band at 434 nm. Different experimental factors were optimized for the formation and stability of AgNPs, and the optimum conditions were found to be 1 mM AgNO3 concentration, a 1:9 ratio of extract/precursor, and an incubation temperature of 70°C for 4 h. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra indicated the presence of phytochemicals in the leaf extract that played the role of bioreducing agents in forming AgNPs. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the presence of AgNPs with a mean size of 25.9 nm. The size distribution and morphology of AgNPs were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, which clearly highlighted spherical nanoparticles with a size distribution of 22–30 nm with a mean average size of 25.5 nm. Moreover, prominent antibacterial activity was found against Enterococcus faecalis (21 ± 0.5 mm), Bacillus subtilis (20 ± 0.9 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18 ± 0.3 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (16 ± 0.7 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (16 ± 0.3 mm), and Escherichia coli (14 ± 0.7 mm). In addition, antioxidant activity was determined by DPPH and ABTS assays. Higher antioxidant activity was reported in AgNPs compared to the plant extract in both DPPH (IC50 = 69.62 µg·ml−1) and ABTS assays (IC50 = 47.90 µg·ml−1). Furthermore, cytotoxic activity was also investigated by the MTT assay against MCF-7 cells, and IC50 was found to be 32.55 ± 0.05 µg·ml−1. The crux of this research is that AgNPs synthesized from the Cedrela toona leaf extract could be employed as antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer agents for the treatment of bacterial, free radical-oriented, and cancerous diseases.

Abstract Organic–inorganic hybrid light-emitting devices have garnered significant attention in the last few years due to their potential. These devices integrate the superior electron mobility of inorganic semiconductors with the remarkable optoelectronic characteristics of organic semiconductors. The inquiry focused on analyzing the optical and electrical properties of a light-emitting heterojunction that combines p-type GaN with organic materials (PEDOT, PSS, and PMMA). This heterojunction is an organic–inorganic hybrid. The procedure entailed utilizing a spin-coating technique to apply a layer of either poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) or a mixture of PMMA and poly(3,4ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT: PSS) onto an indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate. Subsequently, different Nd:YAG laser pulses (200, 250, and 300 pulses) were used to administer a GaN inorganic layer onto the prepared organic layer using a pulsed laser deposition approach. Subsequently, the thermal evaporation technique was employed to deposit an aluminum electrode on the top of the organic and inorganic layers, while laser pulses were fine-tuned for optimal performance. The Hall effect investigation verifies the p-type conductivity of the GaN material. The electroluminescence studies confirmed the production of blue light by the GaN-based devices throughout a range of voltage situations, spanning from 45 to 72 V.

Objectives: This study aimed to develop and validate the OSABSS (Objective Structured Assessment of Basic Surgical Skills), a modified Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), to assess basic surgical skills in residents. Design: A developmental study conducted in two phases. Basic skills were identified through literature review and gap analysis. The OSABSS was then designed as a modified OSCE. Setting: This study took place at Alborz University of Medical Sciences in Iran. Interventions: The OSABSS was created using Harden's OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) methodology. Scenarios, checklists, and station configurations were developed through expert panels. The exam was piloted and implemented with residents as participants and faculty as evaluators. Participants: 32 surgical residents in gynecology, general surgery, orthopedics, and neurosurgery participated. 22 faculty members were evaluators. Primary and secondary outcome measures: The primary outcome was OSABSS exam scores. Secondary outcomes were written exam scores, and national residency entrance ranks. Main results: The mean OSABSS score was 16.59 ± 0.19 across all stations. Criterion validity was demonstrated through correlations between OSABSS scores, written scores and entrance ranks. Reliability was high, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.87. No significant inter-rater score differences were found. Conclusions: The rigorous OSABSS development process produced an exam demonstrating strong validity and reliability for assessing basic surgical skills. The comprehensive station variety evaluates diverse technical and non-technical competencies. Further research should expand participant samples across surgical disciplines.

Gender-based violence (GBV) poses a significant concern in the construction and natural resources industries, where women, due to lower social status and integration, are at heightened risk. This systematic review aimed to identify the prevalence and experience of GBV in the construction and natural resources industries. A systematic search across databases including PubMed, OVID, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL was conducted. The Risk of Bias Instrument for Cross-sectional Surveys of Attitudes and Practices by McMaster University and the Critical Appraisal of Qualitative Studies by the Center for Evidence Based Medicine at the University of Oxford were used to assess the studies included in the review. Six articles were included after full-text analysis. GBV was reported in the construction, mining, urban forestry, and arboriculture sectors. Workplace GBV was measured differently across the studies, and all studies examined more than one form of GBV. The main forms of GBV discussed in these studies were discrimination, sexual harassment, and sexism. The studies provided some insight for demographic factors that may or may not be associated with GBV, such as age, region of work, and number of years working in the industry. The review also suggests that workplace GBV has a negative impact on mental health and well-being outcomes, such as higher levels of stress and lower job satisfaction. The current research has not established the effectiveness of interventions, tools, or policies in these workplaces. Thus, additional research should include intervention studies that aim to minimize or prevent GBV in male-dominated workplaces. The current study can bring awareness and acknowledgement towards GBV in the workplace and highlight the importance of addressing it as this review outlines the negative consequences of GBV on mental health and well-being in these male-dominated industries.

Abstract In this paper, a novel phononic crystal fiber with conical input is introduced for coupling environmental acoustic waves to the fiber core. Environmental acoustic waves can be focused and coupled to the core through conical input. In the first step, a cone shape coupler has been considered for coupling the incident acoustic waves to the core region. This initial idea has a significant acoustic energy loss. This disadvantage encourages us to design a new phononic crystal fiber without it. Designed structure includes a phononic crystal fiber with conical input meaning solid rods have been shaped in conical way at the input section of fiber. By using this structure, environmental acoustic waves can be properly coupled to the core region of the fiber. Acoustic wave leakage to outside of the Phononic crystal fiber has been extremely decreased in comparison with initial coupler. Experimental results indicate that environmental acoustic waves can be focused and coupled to the core region by phononic crystal fiber with conical input.

Abstract Due to the high volume of wastewater produced from dairy factories, it is necessary to integrate a water recovery process with the treatment plant. Today, bipolar membrane electrodialysis units (BMEUs) are increasingly developed for wastewater treatment and reutilizing. This article aims to develop and evaluate (technical and cost analyses) a combined BMEU/batch reverse osmosis unit (BROU) process for the recovery of chemicals and water from the dairy wastewater plant. The combined BROU/BMEU process is able to simultaneously produce water and strong base-acid, and reduce power consumption due to the injection of concentrated feed flow into the BMEU. A comprehensive comparative analysis on the performances of two combined and stand-alone BMEU configurations are developed. The proposed combined technology for dairy factory wastewater treatment is designed on a new structure and configuration that can address superior cost analysis compared to similar technologies. Further, the optimal values of permeate flux and current density as two vital and influencing parameters on the performance of the studied dairy wastewater treatment process were calculated and discussed. From the outcomes, the total cost of production in the combined configuration has been reduced by approximately 26% compared to the stand-alone configuration. Increasing the feed concentration rate using the batch reverse osmosis process for the dairy wastewater treatment process can be an ideal solution from an economic point of view. Moreover, point (current density, feed concentration rate, total unit cost) = $$\left(328.9, 7, 14.37\right)$$ 328.9 , 7 , 14.37 can be considered as an optimal point for the economic performance of the studied wastewater treatment process.

Abstract In clinical oncology, many diagnostic tasks rely on the identification of cells in histopathology images. While supervised machine learning techniques necessitate the need for labels, providing manual cell annotations is time-consuming. In this paper, we propose a self-supervised framework (enVironment-aware cOntrastive cell represenTation learning: VOLTA) for cell representation learning in histopathology images using a technique that accounts for the cell’s mutual relationship with its environment. We subject our model to extensive experiments on data collected from multiple institutions comprising over 800,000 cells and six cancer types. To showcase the potential of our proposed framework, we apply VOLTA to ovarian and endometrial cancers and demonstrate that our cell representations can be utilized to identify the known histotypes of ovarian cancer and provide insights that link histopathology and molecular subtypes of endometrial cancer. Unlike supervised models, we provide a framework that can empower discoveries without any annotation data, even in situations where sample sizes are limited.

Abstract Second allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT2) is among the most effective treatments for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) relapse after first alloSCT (alloSCT1). Long-term EBMT registry data were used to provide large scale, up-to-date outcome results and to identify factors for improved outcome. Among 1540 recipients of alloSCT2, increasing age, better disease control and performance status before alloSCT2, more use of alternative donors and higher conditioning intensity represented important trends over time. Between the first (2000–2004) and last (2015–2019) period, two-year overall and leukemia-free survival (OS/LFS) increased considerably (OS: 22.5–35%, LFS: 14.5–24.5%). Cumulative relapse incidence (RI) decreased from 64% to 50.7%, whereas graft-versus-host disease and non-relapse mortality (NRM) remained unchanged. In multivariable analysis, later period of alloSCT2 was associated with improved OS/LFS (HR = 0.47/0.53) and reduced RI (HR = 0.44). Beyond, remission duration, disease stage and patient performance score were factors for OS, LFS, RI, and NRM. Myeloablative conditioning for alloSCT2 decreased RI without increasing NRM, leading to improved OS/LFS. Haploidentical or unrelated donors and older age were associated with higher NRM and inferior OS. In summary, outcome after alloSCT2 has continuously improved over the last two decades despite increasing patient age. The identified factors provide clues for the optimized implementation of alloSCT2.

Abstract: Socio-cultural sustainability represents one of the important pillars of sustainable development. As one of the fundamentals targeted by Saudi Vision 2030, it aims to achieve sustainable development that enhances the living standards of citizens and improves the quality of their lives. This necessitates the provision of Saudi housing that achieves socio-cultural sustainability, to ensure it reflects the culture of the Saudi society, its social characteristics, and fosters a sense of stability and belonging, while also strengthening community ties. Especially since the contemporary Saudi housing model, heavily influenced by the social and cultural backgrounds of the places from which it was imported, is an adopted model. Therefore, there is a need for socio-cultural sustainability criteria in Saudi housing, which should serve as a reference for all design, review, and evaluation work. However, establishing these standards requires initially identifying the fundamental factors from which the criteria will be derived, through a conceptual framework that includes all elements, components, references, and applications necessary for building the model. The study aims to identify the most important factors influencing the derivation of criteria for socio-cultural sustainability in Saudi housing. Hence, the paper is based on a methodology that combines the analysis of current literature and the study of elements of socio-cultural sustainability, and how they are applied in the Saudi context, particularly in the city of Riyadh. It reviewed all concepts of socio-cultural sustainability in housing, its principles, and objectives, deduced its general characteristics and attributes, and reviewed their compatibility with the characteristics of Saudi society. It also identified the pillars of socio-cultural sustainability in Saudi housing (both traditional and contemporary), to then integrate the findings to arrive at the fundamental factors for deriving standards of socio-cultural sustainability for use in planning and designing housing in the city of Riyadh. الملخص تمثل الاستدامة الاجتماعية الثقافية إحدى الركائز المهمة للتنمية المستدامة، بصفتها من أساسيات مستهدفات رؤية المملكة العربية السعودية ٢٠٣٠ لتحقيق التنمية المستدامة، التي ترتقي بمستوى معيشة المواطن، وتحسين نوعية حياته. وهذا يستدعي العناية بتوفير إسكان سعودي يحقق الاستدامة الاجتماعية الثقافية، لضمان أن يعكس ثقافة المجتمع السعودي، وخصائصه الاجتماعية، ويحقق الشعور بالاستقرار، ويعزز الشعور بالانتماء، ويعمل على تقوية الروابط، خصوصاً وأن نموذج الإسكان السعودي المعاصر، نموذجا مستورد تأثر تأثرًا كبيرًا بالخلفيات الاجتماعية الثقافية للأماكن التي نقل منها. لذا يتعين وجود معايير للاستدامة الاجتماعية الثقافية في الإسكان السعودي، تكون مرجعًا لجميع أعمال التصميم والمراجعة والتقييم. ولكن الوصول إلى معايير للاستدامة الاجتماعية الثقافية، يستدعي في البداية الحاجة إلى تحديد العوامل الاساسية لاستخلاص المعايير، من خلال إطار مفاهيمي يشمل جميع: العناصر، والمكونات، والمرجعيات، والتطبيقات اللازمة لبناء النموذج. تهدف الدراسة إلى تحديد أهم العوامل المؤثرة في استخلاص معايير الاستدامة الاجتماعية الثقافية في الإسكان السعودي. لذا استندت الورقة إلى منهجية، تجمع بين تحليل الأدبيات الحالية ودراسة عناصر الاستدامة الاجتماعية والثقافية، وكيفية تطبيقها في السياق السعودي من خلال التطبيق على مدينة الرياض، حيث استعرضت جميع مفاهيم الاستدامة الاجتماعية الثقافية في الإسكان ومبادئها وأهدافها، واستخلصت سماتها وخصائصها العامة، وراجعت مدى توافقها مع خصائص المجتمع السعودي، بالإضافة إلى تحديد ركائز الاستدامة الاجتماعية الثقافية في الإسكان السعودي (التقليدي والمعاصر)، ليتم بعد ذلك دمج النتائج للوصول إلى العوامل الاساسية لاستخلاص معايير الاستدامة الاجتماعية الثقافية لاستخدامها في تخطيط وتصميم الإسكان في مدينة الرياض.

This study explores the phase constitution, thermal behavior, magnetic characteristics, and mechanical properties of FeCoNiCrCux high-entropy alloys (HEAs) produced via powder metallurgy, focusing on varying copper ratios (0–20%). The investigation seeks to understand how the introduction of copper influences the phase composition and properties of FeCoNiCr HEAs, particularly regarding changes in phase structure and mechanical behavior. The phase constitution was analyzed using field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Thermal expansion and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were employed to study thermal behavior, while vibrating sample magnetometers (VSM) were utilized to assess magnetic properties. Mechanical properties were evaluated through hardness testing. The analysis reveals a shift in phase composition from a single-phase FCC structure to a dual-phase configuration comprising FCC and copper-rich FCC phases as copper content increases. Thermal and magnetic properties were characterized, demonstrating the alloy's behavior under varying conditions. Mechanical tests showed a decrease in hardness with increasing copper content. This study contributes to the understanding of how copper addition affects the phase constitution, thermal behavior, magnetic properties, and mechanical strength of FeCoNiCr HEAs. The observed changes in phase composition and mechanical properties offer insights for tailoring the properties of HEAs for specific applications.