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Abstract Large intelligent surfaces arise as an emerging technology and critical building block for sixth-generation (6G) wireless networks. Reconfigurable holographic surfaces (RHSs) have been attracting significant attention recently as active antenna arrays with the capability of forming narrow beams at low cost and complexity. This paper introduces the directional modulation (DM) concept for RHS, where a large number of elements are exploited to control not only the signal’s power at the receiver but also its phase. Thus, a novel DM algorithm is proposed for RHS enables modulating a carrier wave to transmit information toward specific directions while broadcasting arbitrary signals toward other directions. Error vector magnitude results are reported for multiple users, where the directions of two users with respect to the RHS are varied. Mutual information result is also provided for 6 users to demonstrate the application of RHS for the physical layer security. Results are highly promising for future low-cost and secure spatially multiplexed communications.

Background Understanding the factors that contribute to unemployment will help in the design of creative resolutions to enable hemodialysis patients to return to a productive life.

Abstract Permeability prediction and distribution is very critical for reservoir modeling process. The conventional method for obtaining permeability data is from cores, which is a very costly method. Therefore, it is usual to pay attention to logs for calculating permeability where it has massive limitations regarding this step. The aim of this study is to use unique artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to tackle this challenge and predict permeability in the studied wells using conventional logs and routine core analysis results of the core plugs as an input to predict the permeability in non-cored intervals using extreme gradient boosting algorithm (XGB). This led to promising results as per the R 2 correlation coefficient. The R 2 correlation coefficient between the predicted and actual permeability was 0.73 when using the porosity measured from core plugs and 0.51 when using the porosity calculated from logs. This study presents the use of machine-learning extreme gradient boosting algorithm in permeability prediction. To our knowledge, this algorithm has not been used in this formation and field before. In addition, the machine-learning model established is uniquely simple and convenient as only four commonly available logs are required as inputs, it even provides reliable results even if one of the required logs for input is synthesized due to its unavailability.

Abstract Inflammation is a part of the body’s intricate biological reaction to noxious stimuli and defensive reactions. So, the aim of this investigation was to study the anti-inflammatory activity of exopolysaccharide (EPSSM) using carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. A halophilic bacterial strain was isolated from marine sediments in the Red Sea in Egypt. The isolate has been visually and physiologically recognized, as well as by analyzing its 16S rRNA gene, which confirms Kocuria sp. clone Asker4. This particular isolate can be referenced using the accession number OL798051.1. EPSSM was subjected to purification and fractionation by a DEAE-cellulose column. Preliminary chemical analysis of EPSSM indicated that the monosaccharides were fructose, glucuronic acid, and xylose, with 2.0, 0.5, and 1.0, respectively. The antioxidant potential of EPSSM was investigated, and it was discovered that the level of activity increased independently of the concentrations, reaching a maximum threshold of 94.13% at 100 µg/mL of EPSSM for 120 min. Also, EPSSM at 50 mg/kg orally produced a significant anti-inflammatory effect on the carrageenan model at 2, 3, and 4 intervals. The EPSSM intervention resulted in reductions in the levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes, as well as a decrease in glutathione. Furthermore, the levels of nitric oxide, lipid peroxidation, and reactive oxygen species resulting from carrageenan-induced edema showed a significant reduction subsequent to the administration of EPSSM. Moreover, the findings indicated that the protein expression levels of cyclooxygenase-2 and interleukin-6 were reduced following treatment with EPSSM, resulting in a reduction of paw edema.

A sealant has been developed that improves upon current catheter-based treatments in the following ways: 1) Efficient delivery system, 2) No in situ polymerization, 3) No harmful byproducts, and 4) Cost-effective formulation. During the development process, particular attention was given to materials that were tunable, safe, and effective sealant agents. The thermo-responsive properties of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) provides an ideal foundation to develop an optimized solution. Through a combination of model-based and material testing, a hydrogel was developed that balances conformational factors to achieve a customized transition temperature, radiopacity suitable for visualization, mechanical properties suitable for delivery via 3Fr catheter, sufficient cohesion once applied to resist migration under physiological pressures and an improved safety profile. Two applications, embolization of lymphatic leakage and exclusions of the left atrial appendage (LAA), to eliminate LAA dead space to reduce the risk of thromboembolic events, were considered. The material and benchtop results for this product demonstrate the suitability of this new material not only for these applications but also for other potential healthcare applications.

Background This study applied geographical standards (coverage distance) and demographic standards to investigate the capabilities of primary healthcare facilities to cover the largest area of the study area and the service area that can be accessed. This study was conducted to find out the sufficient number of primary healthcare (PHC) centers required to provide healthcare services to the entire community. Methods Data was obtained by applying geographic information system (GIS) techniques to analyze primary care facilities using the demographic and geographic standards for primary care facilities. Results PHC centers cover 79% of the study area according to the geographical standard. The study area needs 41 additional centers to cover the shortfall in service provision per the demographic and geographic standards. Conclusions A significant deficiency in the number of primary care centers found in the study area compared to the large population at the geographical and demographic standards level.

Background This study aims to develop a vulnerability map for Surabaya using GIS-based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) to assess the city’s vulnerability to COVID-19. Methods Six key factors influencing vulnerability were identified and their relative importance determined through the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) pairwise comparison matrix. GIS was utilized to classify Surabaya’s vulnerability into five levels: very low, low, medium, high, and very high. Results The resulting vulnerability map provides essential insights for decision-makers, healthcare professionals, and disaster management teams. It enables strategic resource allocation, targeted interventions, and formulation of comprehensive response strategies tailored to specific needs of vulnerable districts. Conclusions Through these measures, Surabaya can enhance its resilience and preparedness, ensuring the well-being of its residents in the face of potential emergency outbreaks.

Objetivo: Determinar los factores que predicen la mortalidad y la morbilidad precoces en pacientes sometidos a hemicolectomía derecha laparoscópica y su superioridad entre ellos. Método: Se evaluaron datos demográficos, el índice de comorbilidad de Charlson ajustado por edad, el puntaje de la American Society of Anesthesiologists, el índice de masa corporal, el puntaje de pronóstico de Glasgow modificado (mGPS), el estadio de la enfermedad y la sarcopenia en pacientes que se sometieron a hemicolectomía derecha entre 2010 y 2022. Se comparó su superioridad en la predicción de resultados a corto plazo. Resultados: Se incluyeron en el estudio 78 pacientes. La tasa de complicaciones fue mayor en los pacientes sarcopénicos (p = 0.002). Una puntuación mGPS alta se asoció con un mayor riesgo de mortalidad (p = 0.012). No se encontró que otros métodos estuvieran relacionados con los resultados a corto plazo. Conclusiones: La sarcopenia es útil para la predicción de complicaciones y la tasa de mortalidad puede estimarse mediante la puntuación mGPS. Estos son superiores a los otros métodos de predicción de resultados a corto plazo. Sin embargo, se necesitan estudios controlados aleatorizados.

Commercial simulation software like QFORM and DEFORM do not possess adequate material data for alloys produced through powder metallurgy. Therefore, in the present study, hot compression tests of Al-5.6%Zn–2%Mg aluminum alloy were conducted at temperature ranges (300 0C-500 °C) and strain rates (0.1 s−1-0.0001 s−1). The impact of compression temperature and strain rate on the flow curve behaviour and microstructure evolution-associated mechanisms were investigated through experimentally acquired flow curves and EBSD analysis. Four constitutive models were constructed; namely the Arrhenius-type, modified Johnson Cook (MJC), modified Zerilli-Armstrong (MZA), and an artificial neural network (ANN). The results demonstrated that among the models considered, the ANN and Arrhenius-type models exhibited the lowest AARE values of 0.486 % and 3.36 %, respectively. Conversely, the MZA and MJC models displayed higher AARE values of 8.84 % and 3.93 %, respectively. Notably, the Arrhenius-type model emerged as the most suitable prediction model due to its capability to handle nonlinear relationships between factors. However, in scenarios where material properties are unknown or experimental data is limited, the MJC model can serve as a simpler alternative. The MZA model was deemed unsuitable for accurately estimating flow stress in hot compression. Remarkably, the best-trained ANN model exhibited the highest predictive performance with an AARE of 0.486 % and an R-value of 0.99. This study offers fundamental insights to improve the accuracy of simulating hot compression procedures. EBSD analysis demonstrated that higher upsetting temperatures and lower strain rates promoted recrystallization, resulting in a more uniform microstructure.

A new series of piperine-carboximidamide hybrids VIa-k was developed as a new cytotoxic agent targeting EGFR, BRAF, and CDK2. The antiproliferative effect against four cancer cells was investigated against erlotinib. Hybrids VIc, VIf, VIg, VIi, and VIk have the highest antiproliferative activity. Compounds VIc, VIf, VIg, VIi, and VIk inhibited EGFR with IC50 values ranging from 96 to 127 nM. Compounds VIf and VIk had the most potent inhibitory activity as BRAFV600E (IC50 = 49 and 40 nM, respectively) and were discovered to be potent inhibitors of cancer cell proliferation (GI50 = 44 and 35 nM against four cancer cell lines, respectively). Compound VIk, the most effective derivative as an antiproliferative agent, demonstrated potent anti-CDK2 action with an IC50 value of 12 nM, which is 1.5-fold more potent than the reference dinaciclib. Finally, VIc, VIf, and VIk have a high capacity to inhibit LOX-IMVI cell line survival.

Among the different electrical energy storage technologies, the Carnot batteries are promising options with low specific cost that do not suffer from geographical limitations and power-capacity coupling. In addition to power balancing, this approach can also be unique for multi-vector energy management. A comprehensive evaluation (thermodynamic design and exergoenvironmental and exergoeconomic evaluations), comparison, and multi-objective optimization of four Carnot battery configurations based on solar-electric energy and a geothermal source is presented. Geothermal energy can simultaneously improve the thermodynamic and environmental performances of the Carnot battery. The main structure of all configurations is based on electrical energy obtained from PV and captured thermal energy from a geothermal source. The four Brayton, heat pump, flash, and organic Rankine cycle (ORC) units are periodically integrated. The outcomes point out that the discharging process is based on an ORC unit and a flash-heat pump cycle (F-HPC)-based charging process makes more optimal heat-to-power efficiency. Moreover, the Carnot battery based on the regenerative-Brayton cycle (R-BC) unit has a higher investment cost rate compared to the ORC unit (in the discharging process). When integrating the geothermal, the third configuration (R-HPC/R-BC) experiences the greatest improvement (5.3-fold) due to the increase in thermal energy received from the geothermal source.

This work describes the development of the RP-HPLC method for the simultaneous estimation of Guaifenesin, codeine phosphate, phenylephrine, and sodium benzoate. This method separates Guaifenesin, codeine phosphate, phenylephrine, and sodium benzoate nicely. This RP-HPLC method uses the Shimadzu HPLC instrument with Chromegabond WR C18 column 5 μm 120 A 30 cm * 3.9 mm. The mobile phase is a mixture of 1% o-phosphoric acid, methanol: acetonitrile (80 : 10: 10), and the pH was adjusted to 3.1. Isocratic elution mode was used with 1 ml/min as the flow rate. The detection for all compounds is carried out at 254 nm. The retention time of Guaifenesin, codeine phosphate, phenylephrine, and sodium benzoate was 14.11, 5.75, 3.9, and 20.52, respectively. The method has been validated concerning accuracy, linearity, and precision. This method is simple, accurate, and reproducible. This validated method was used to estimate these drugs in syrup pharmaceutical form.

Hirschsprung disease is one of the most common and problematic infancy and childhood maladies. The most reliable method for diagnosis is the histopathological analysis of colorectal biopsies and the typical finding of Hirschsprung disease is the absence of ganglion cells. The study involved 36 cases of suspected Hirschsprung disease, in which 27 cases were males and 9 cases were females with an age range between (1 day - 1 year). All patients undergo complete history taking, physical examination, radiological investigations, and rectal biopsy. The tissue specimens were obtained from the rectum of neonate and infant patients, maintained in the fixative solution (formalin 10%) for histopathological analysis, and patients were divided into two groups (Hirschsprung disease and non-Hirschsprung disease group) according to histological findings. Statistical analysis was performed on the tabulated data by chi-square, and the automated computer-adopted image analysis program Image J® was utilized for the histometrical examination of rectum tissue. The Hirschsprung disease is more common in males than females. The delayed passage of meconium is the most common symptom of these diseases. We notice that there is a significant difference between the Hirschsprung disease group and the non-Hirschsprung disease group in clinical signs, empty rectum, tight anal sphincter on per rectal examination. Based on histopathology analysis of the rectal biopsy, out of the 36 cases, 27(75%) cases were diagnosed as Hirschsprung disease, and 9 (25%) cases as negative for Hirschsprung disease. In Histometric study of rectal biopsies tissues showed a significant difference in the mucosa, Submucosa, and muscularis externa between Hirschsprung disease and non-Hirschsprung disease patients.

Education, research, and biosecurity have global recognition as strong pillars of sustainable aquaculture development. In many developing countries, insufficient knowledge and awareness among stakeholders regarding the relevance of education, research, and biosecurity have influenced aquaculture sustainability negatively. To uncover the gaps in education, research, and biosecurity practices in aquatic animal health management, we conducted a questionnaire-based study in various East and West African countries. By adopting the methodology of self-reporting data, we invited a significant number of individuals to participate in the study. In the end, 88 respondents contributed, with the majority from Ghana (47) and Kenya (20), and 21 respondents from five other East and West African nations. The results revealed substantial educational gaps, including the need for practical training in aquatic animal health management, nutrition, and genetics. Respondents also emphasized the importance of creating additional national aquaculture research institutions and augmented funding to enable them to address industry needs. Governments of the represented nations should actively intervene by providing the essential logistics and capacity to support aquaculture research and development. Informed government involvement is paramount for bridging the disconnection among all stakeholders, as revealed in the results. Furthermore, the lack of biosecurity measures and the understanding of the importance of biosecurity measures in the industry addressed through awareness creation. Creating awareness on biosecurity underpinned with national aquaculture biosecurity policies can prevent disease incidences in the industry. The outcomes of this study can serve as a vital working document to enhance aquatic animal health management in East and West Africa, thereby fostering sustainable and resilient aquaculture.

Environmental negative impacts of the fossil fuels and intermittent feature of the renewable energies have made their hybrid configurations as a potential solution to overcome their both weaknesses. This research focuses on exergetic, and economic evaluation of a novel hybrid combined supercritical Brayton Cycle-Organic Rankine Cycle in which Solar PTC system and Biogas are considered as the energy Sources. The exhaust heat from the Bryton cycle runs the Organic Rankine cycle while either solar energy (during the daylight hours) or biogas energy (overnight hours) supply additional heat into the Brayton cycle. Sensitivity analyses were carried out in order to ascertain the influence that the system's input characteristics. The total exergy destruction of the system as well as its second law efficiency are computed. The process was not complete until exergoeconomics was used, and it was during this stage that the initial investment rate, the exorgoeconomic component, and the investment return rate are figured out. The findings of these analyses are compiled into a result report. It was concluded that combining the PTC system with the source of the biogas could be an effective way to achieve the desired level of heat delivery to the system.

Several phytopathogens attack eggplant, causing crop damage. One of the most destructive plant diseases, Root-Knot Nematode (RKN), causes significant damage to eggplant seedlings. Finding safe and effective biological alternatives to prevent eggplant root nematode disease, which significantly limits plant productivity, is the innovative aspect of this study. Six isolates of plant growth-promoting fungus (PGPF) were tested in the current work for improving biochemical defense and physio-biochemical performance in eggplant seedlings under the Meloidogyne incognita challenge. PGPF isolates were tested in vitro for some biochemical traits such as Siderophores and HCN production. Besides, the antagonistic efficacy of PGPF filtrates against M. incognita was tested in vitro. The best isolates capable of producing HCN were F5 and F3 respectively. Also, F5 followed by F3 exhibited the maximum mortality proportions of 74.20% and 60.35% mortality in nematode juveniles after 96 hours respectively. Moreover, F5 has the highest level of antioxidant activity, with IC50 145 µg/mL followed by F3 with IC50 350 µg/mL. thus, we identified F5 and F3 completely as Rhizopus microsporus (OQ291571.1 and Aspergillus oryzae OQ291572.1. Implementing R. microsporus and A. oryzae collectively in vivo study was the most successful therapy, limiting nematode recordings as 95.23%, 86.98%, 80.35%, 80%, and 68.78% reduction in females, galls, developmental stage, egg masses, second juveniles, respectively, in diseased seedlings. It could be suggested that the use of ethyl acetate extracts (EAE) of A. oryzae and R. microsporus might be commercially applied as a stimulator of eggplant and or anti-nematodes against M. incognita.

Mona A Eldosoky,1 Reham Hammad,1 Areej Rushdi,2 Hanan F Ibrahim,2 Amany M Tawfeik,3 Ahmed Mora,4 Sarah F Fahmy,5 Hossam El-Ashmawy,6 Elham Ali,7 Dina H Hamed,8 Amena Rezk Mohammed,9 Alya Mashaal,10 Hanan Mohsen8 1Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt; 2Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt; 3Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Cairo, Egypt; 4Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science (for Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt; 5Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt; 6Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Boys), Al-Azhar University, Assuit, Egypt; 7Molecular Biology, Zoology and Entomology Department, Faculty of Science (For Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt; 8Pediatric Department, Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Children’s Hospital, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt; 9Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt; 10Immunology, Zoology and Entomology Department, Faculty of Science (For Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, EgyptCorrespondence: Dina H Hamed, Email dina.alkhtaib@cu.edu.egBackground: Severe bronchial asthma (BA) affects 5– 10% of children, which imposes socioeconomic burden. Therefore, it is crucial to identify biomarkers for risk stratification in children with BA. T regulatory cells (Tregs) play a balancing role in allergic response regulation. We aimed to investigate the relationship between Treg, miR-210-3p, and miR-146a-5p in relation to asthma phenotypes in search of novel biomarkers of disease severity.Methods: This study included 50 children with BA classified into Group 1 (n = 25) children with mild to moderate asthma and Group 2 (n = 25) children with severe asthma. In addition to 26 control subjects. Flow cytometry was used to detect Tregs. Plasma miR-210-3p and miR-146a levels were determined using quantitative real-time PCR. Patients’ FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second) was measured.Results: miR-210-3p level correlated negatively with Treg frequency (r = − 0.828, P < 0.001) and FEV1 (r = − 0.621, P < 0.001). The level of miR-146a-5p positively correlated positively with Treg% (r = 0.303, P = 0.032). ROC curve analysis revealed that miR-210-3p was the most sensitive biomarker of severity, with the area under curve (AUC) = 0.923, 96% sensitivity, and 60% specificity. According to multivariate analysis, miR-210-3p is an independent risk factor for BA severity [OR =3.119, P = 0.030], while miR-146a-5p is a protective factor [OR =0.811, P = 0.049].Conclusion: Treg frequency is linked to FEV1, miR-146a-5p and miR-210-3p in childhood BA. Upregulation of miR-210-3p is a sensitive biomarker and an independent risk factor for BA severity in Egyptian children.Keywords: T reg, miR-210-3p, miR-146a-5p, childhood asthma, asthma classifications

Background and Study Aim. The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of 8-week core and plyometric training on body composition and athletic performance in young male soccer players. Material and Methods. 24 young male soccer players participated in the study voluntarily. The subjects were randomly divided into three separate groups: Core training group (CTG), plyometric training group (PTG) and control group (CG). In addition to soccer training two days a week for 8 weeks, the training was applied to the subjects according to the training programs determined. Physical and performance measurements were made 8 weeks before and after the study. Subject's measurements were analyzed in the SPSS 22 program. Results. The largest percentage and significant difference in agility, speed, vertical jump and plyometric jump parameters was obtained in PTG, while the largest percentage and significant difference in horizontal jump parameters was obtained in CTG. While no difference was found in speed and agility performance in CTG; there are significant differences in jump performance but these differences are lower than the other experimental groups in terms of percentage difference. On the other hand in body composition, a significant change was observed only in the height parameter in PTG. Conclusions. If a faster improvement is desired in the determined athletic performance parameters in a period of eight weeks in soccer, it may be recommended to prefer core and plyometric trainings in addition to branch training. Keywords: Soccer, core, plyometrics, body composition, athletic performance

(1) Background: SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 is the most common variation found in most countries and is responsible for 99% of cases in the United States. To overcome this challenge, there is an urgent need to discover effective inhibitors to prevent the emerging BA.1 variant. Natural products, particularly flavonoids, have had widespread success in reducing COVID-19 prevalence. (2) Methods: In the ongoing study, fifteen compounds were annotated from Echium angustifolium and peach (Prunus persica), which were computationally analyzed using various in silico techniques. Molecular docking calculations were performed for the identified phytochemicals to investigate their efficacy. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations over 200 ns followed by molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area calculations (MM/PBSA) were performed to estimate the binding energy. Bioactivity was also calculated for the best components in terms of drug likeness and drug score. (3) Results: The data obtained from the molecular docking study demonstrated that five compounds exhibited remarkable potency, with docking scores greater than −9.0 kcal/mol. Among them, compounds 1, 2 and 4 showed higher stability within the active site of Omicron BA.1, with ΔGbinding values of −49.02, −48.07, and −67.47 KJ/mol, respectively. These findings imply that the discovered phytoconstituents are promising in the search for anti-Omicron BA.1 drugs and should be investigated in future in vitro and in vivo research.

Wasted hot exhaust gas in thermodynamic engineering systems is always a potential source of power generation via different techniques. Passing the hot gas through the inner area of a tubular thermoelectric module can directly convert the hot gas into electricity. In this research, it is shown how the performance of tubular thermoelectric heat recovery is significantly boosted using a novel fin-pin-porous based heat exchanger. Generally, the results show that the proposed integrated structure can enhance the output power of the recovery system up to 45%–110% compared to the conventional smooth channel-based tubular thermoelectric generator. A comparative case study is carried out between the new proposed system and conventional smooth structure from different viewpoints including power generation, conversion efficiency, pumping power and economic cost.

BackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause depression and anxiety. This study evaluated the factors associated with depression and anxiety in patients with RA and examined the effect of conventional and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in a regional hospital in Riyadh between March and November 2022 and included 213 patients with RA. Depression and anxiety were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and data about patients’ DMARDs use was obtained from the hospital’s medical records.ResultsBased on the HADS scores, 35 (16.4%) and 49 (23%) patients with RA had depression and anxiety, respectively. There was a significant association between the level of depression and anxiety and the use of leflunomide and tocilizumab among patients with RA (p = 0.006 and p = 0.009, respectively). Patients with RA who took leflunomide had significantly higher scores for anxiety (β = 0.158, value of p = 0.037) when compared to patients who did not take leflunomide. Patients with RA who took etanercept showed a significantly lower depression score even after adjusting for confounders, including sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors (β = −0.189, p = 0.043).ConclusionThe present study highlighted the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among patients with RA and the level of depression and anxiety may differ between patients with RA depending on the type of DMARDs used. We recommend patients with RA be screened regularly for depression and anxiety to avoid further extra-articular systemic complications associated with RA.

Recently, the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in many areas of life has allowed raising the efficiency of systems and converting them into smart ones, especially in the field of energy. Integrating AI with power systems allows electrical grids to be smart enough to predict the future load, which is known as Intelligent Load Forecasting (ILF). Hence, suitable decisions for power system planning and operation procedures can be taken accordingly. Moreover, ILF can play a vital role in electrical demand response, which guarantees a reliable transitioning of power systems. This paper introduces an Optimum Load Forecasting Strategy (OLFS) for predicting future load in smart electrical grids based on AI techniques. The proposed OLFS consists of two sequential phases, which are: Data Preprocessing Phase (DPP) and Load Forecasting Phase (LFP). In the former phase, an input electrical load dataset is prepared before the actual forecasting takes place through two essential tasks, namely feature selection and outlier rejection. Feature selection is carried out using Advanced Leopard Seal Optimization (ALSO) as a new nature-inspired optimization technique, while outlier rejection is accomplished through the Interquartile Range (IQR) as a measure of statistical dispersion. On the other hand, actual load forecasting takes place in LFP using a new predictor called the Weighted K-Nearest Neighbor (WKNN) algorithm. The proposed OLFS has been tested through extensive experiments. Results have shown that OLFS outperforms recent load forecasting techniques as it introduces the maximum prediction accuracy with the minimum root mean square error.

Development of theoretical models for reduction of sulfur emission and also the material consumption is of great importance for petroleum refinery to obtain high-quality fuels. The latter can be done by employing advanced optimization techniques. In this study, we have developed a modeling methodology for optimization of petroleum refinery in fuel production. Some measured data have been collected for the modeling and computational optimization. Each data point is comprised of four input characteristics: reactor pressure (bar), reactor temperature (°C), initial sulfur concentration (ppm), and dose (g). Outputs for the modeling include sulfur concentration (ppm), emission (%), and HDS cost ($). For modeling, the Adaboost ensemble model is applied on top of the three fundamental models Linear Regression, Gaussian Process Regression, and Bayesian Ridge. On the available dataset, the models are tweaked using the grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA) method, and then the optimal combination of models and parameters is selected for each output. For sulfur content and emission characteristics, the ADA-GPR model is the most accurate; however, the ADA-BRR algorithm performs the best for calculating the HDS cost. Using these models, the R2-score for outputs is 0.970, 0.950, and 0.999, respectively for sulfur concentration, emission percentage of SO2, and HDS cost.

The current research study is aimed at studying the impact of sodium chloride on the performance of semi-arid soils in the Najran area of Saudi Arabia. Experimental work has been undertaken to investigate how adding salt to the semi-arid soil collected in the Najran area affects the boundaries of Atterberg, compaction characteristics, California bearing ratio, and shear strength. All testing was conducted on soil samples from different zones of the Najran area at varying depths of 1.5, 3, and 4.5 m along the soil profiles. The soil samples were analyzed individually and then compared with the same soil samples mixed with NaCl at different percentages of 5, 10, and 20% by weight of the dry soil. Using advanced techniques, such as the scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive x-ray analysis, and X-ray diffraction analysis, the stabilization process was examined. The findings revealed that NaCl significantly impacts the geotechnical characteristics of semi-arid soils. The maximum dry density increased from 1.995, 1.93, and 1.96 to 2.02, 1.99, and 2.03 g/cm3, and the optimal water content decreased from 9.47, 13.7, and 11.29 to 7.01, 9.58%, and 8.09% with 20% NaCl added at various depths, respectively. Shear resistance parameters were improved by adding 20% NaCl, where the soil cohesion increased from 0.1333, 0.0872, and 0.0533 to 0.1843, 0.1034, and 0.0372 kg/cm2, and the angle of internal friction increased from 24°, 25.5°, and 29° to 27.8°, 30°, and 33°, respectively. The liquid and plastic limits and, in turn, the plasticity index reduced as the added percentage of NaCl increased. Furthermore, the California bearing ratio percentages significantly increased and reached more than 50%. As a result, it is established that NaCl is an excellent stabilizer, especially at 20% concentration, and might be used as a sub-base substance in highway construction.

Abstract Background The principal cause of renal graft loss after the first year is chronic allograft nephropathy which is represented histologically by tubulo-interstitial fibrosis. Its early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent late graft failure. Ultrasound is unequivocally the first-line imaging modality for the evaluation of renal transplants in the immediate postoperative period and for long-term follow-up. Ultrasound shear wave elastography is an imaging technique based on estimation of the elastic properties of tissues. Elastography is performed in the same clinical setting with conventional B-mode ultrasonography. Tissue elasticity is displayed as an absolute number and color-coded real-time estimation. So, it can be used in screening and diagnosing chronic allograft nephropathy. However, the accurate diagnosis and prognosis of renal parenchymal complications still relies on tissue biopsy. Many studies have proved the high specificity of ultrasound elastography in decreasing the number of unnecessary biopsies. Results In our study, we included 36 patients with biopsy-proven chronic allograft nephropathy. All patients had a B-mode ultrasound examination and followed by ultrasound shear wave elastography in the same session. The results were compared to the histopathological results. Time since transplantation was directly correlated with mean renal stiffness, revealing that with longer time of transplantation renal stiffness and interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IF/TA) percentage increased with r = 0.72, 0.90 and p value

Abstract Background To evaluate the effect of modifying conventional glass ionomer (CGIC) and resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGIC) with nano-hydroxyapatite (Nano-HA) on their clinical performance as restorations for class V cavities. Methods The wet-chemical precipitation method was utilized to prepare the nano-hydroxyapatite particles. Nano-HA was then characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy, Elemental Dispersive X-ray and thermal gravimetric analysis. Five wt% of the nano-hydroxyapatite (Nano-HA) was then incorporated into the powder portion of the CGIC and RMGIC. Sixty Class V cavities were prepared in thirty patients with at least two cervical caries lesions. Prepared cavities were restored using the tested materials. Modified United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria were used to evaluate the restorations at base line, after three, six and nine months. Results Regarding the investigated modified USPHS criteria, the tested restorative materials showed no statistically significant difference throughout the study period. While color match, surface texture and marginal integrity criteria showed a statistically significant change in nano-HA-GIC. Surface texture and marginal integrity showed a significant change with CGIC. A significant change in surface texture was only found with nano-HA-RMGIC. Conclusions The investigated restorative materials showed an equivalent clinical performance at the nine months follow-up.

Bioplastics are plastics derived from natural resources like corn starch, biomass, sugarcane bagasse, and food waste. Unlike fossil fuel-based plastics, they are bio-degradable entirely or partially. Therefore, bioplastics are relatively less harmful to the environment. Cellulose and starch-based bioplastics are already used for applications like packaging, cutlery, bowls, straws. However, their cost and performance cannot match the conventional plastics. The present study was aimed to produce bioplastic from food waste material. As a result, orange peel is chosen because of its high cellulose content and good availability. The bio-plastic film from orange peel was produced using simple laboratory techniques. Its identification for potential applications is the new area of work. The developed film blends with glycerol as a plasticizer have indicated consistent and promising results. This has excellent strength, flexibility, and disintegration in soiling conditions, morphologically having a rough surface, and confirms the film's bio-degradability nature. Characterization methods such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), powderX-ray diffraction (XRD), and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis confirmed that the developed material's physicochemical and surface morphology belonged to bio-based plastic. A simple, novel, and economic process are described in the manufacturing of bio-based plastic.

Portable picnic food thermoelectric fridge (COOLMAN Esky) is now abundantly available in the market showing increasing commercialized products using Peltier module. The efficiency of the recent thermoelectric modules has been enhanced so that a single 50 × 50 mm Peltier module can generate 100–250W cooling capacity. That is why, researchers enthusiastically work on different aspects of thermoelectric module in terms of performance improvement and providing new applications. However, economic cost evaluation is one of the main concerns in the application of Peltier module for heating/cooling aims. In this research, the application of thermoelectric module for instant cooling of drinkable water is evaluated mainly from economic cost viewpoint. It is tried to investigate the thermos-economic aspects of the mentioned process under different water flow rates and input power. To approach the aim of this study, the standard economic SPECO method is employed. The required basin information is obtained using a prototype experimental rig. The results indicates that the instant cooling of drinking water using thermoelectric is promising is design parameters and working condition are selected in a logical range.

Generally speaking, a Peltier module obtains a high value of COP only for a small range of applied DC voltage. Indeed, increment of DC voltage sharply reduces its COP. Hence, to get a high total COP for a large-scale commercial Peltier air cooler (for example input power of 1000 W) each individual Peltier module should work with a small input DC voltage. This means, a greater number of Peltier modules should be employed in a real cooler to reduce the allocate DC voltage for any individual Peltier module. However, this means higher capital, maintenance, operating and maybe final cooling cost. Hence, a size related cost economic analysis is required for cooling process using Peltier module which is experimentally presented in this research. Three Peltier air coolers with different sizes (but in the same range of total input power) are investigated from efficiency and economic cost viewpoints. Findings show that despite the higher capital and maintenance cost for case “c” (6 TEM), it still provides cheaper cooling compared to the other cases. However, it is noted that case “b” (4 modules) provides 100% lower cooling cost compared to the case “a” (2 modules) while case “c” (6 modules) provides only 35% lower cooling cost compared to the case “b”. This means, although increasing module number enhances the total COP of the cooler (for a given input power) and reduces the cooling cost, further increment of module number will finally augment the cooling cost of the cooler. Hence, an optimized number of modules can be selected for a large-scale cooling by simultaneous multi economic and cooling optimization. The quantitative and qualitative findings of this research can be useful for future marketing, and commercialization purposes of large-scale air-cooling process using Peltier module.

Covid-19 further revealed the significance of ventilation by air conditioning systems. Most common split heaters and resistance heaters recirculate the indoor air without ventilation process. Ventilation wastes energy consumption by the building. However, adding an air-to-air heat recovery unit seems a quick solution to reduce the wasted heat of the ventilation process. Nonetheless, recovery unit means further pumping power (pressure drop through the air-to-air heat exchanger), capital cost, additional fans and their electricity consumption, exergy costs and so on. Hence, the profitability of the recovery unit depends on outdoor temperature, desired indoor temperature, electricity price of the region, exergy loss and also the aforementioned factors. In this research the general standard Specific Exergy Costing theory is employed and simplified as an economic strategy for recovery ventilation. The model not only is able to predict the profitability of the ventilation process using air-to-air heat exchanger, but also it is an optimization tool for air-to-air heat recovery units as provided as a case study in this paper.

Cannabis is currently the most consumed illicit substance in the world, and gradual legalization in the USA makes it important to understand the health consequences of the use of this substance. With growing body of evidence that some cannabis ingredients may be beneficial in various aspects of hemostasis, additional research is clearly needed in various clinical areas. In addition to understanding the efficacy, research efforts should also include studies that address any harmful effects of the compounds or administration methods that may result in adverse effects. This review is focused on the cardiometabolic effects of cannabis use. Cardiometabolic diseases are among the leading causes of death in the USA and around the world. The purpose of this review was to provide an overview of the known medicinal benefits of selected cannabis cannabinoids and the known side effects or contraindications. More importantly, we have proposed new questions and signposts in cannabis research to uncover additional medicinal benefits and identify the health hazards with focus on cardiovascular disease.

Abstract Handwashing (HW) with water and soap is one of the cheapest and most effective ways of protecting oneself and others against the coronavirus. Here, the HW knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Saudi adults were assessed during the COVID-19 pandemic using a cross-sectional study conducted between May 8 and June 8, 2020, during a partial lockdown period. A web-based validated questionnaire was distributed through different social media platforms, and the sociodemographic characteristics of the participants, seven items related to knowledge, four items related to attitudes, and thirteen items related to the practice of HW were assessed. A total of 1323 (51% male and 49% female) adults from all regions of Saudi Arabia responded to the questionnaire. The overall mean (± SD) was 5.13 (± 1.18) for knowledge of HW and COVID-19, 2.79 (± 0.77) for attitude toward HW, and 7.8 (± 2.56) for HW practice. A multiple linear regression analysis revealed factors associated with knowledge to be age and family income. Sex, educational level, family income, and HW knowledge were associated with negative and neutral attitude, whereas age, sex, family income, and HW knowledge were associated with practice. These results suggest that HW knowledge was strongly associated with positive attitudes toward HW and correct HW practice in Saudi adults during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Purpose – Coronary artery disease (CAD) is reported as one of the most common sources of death all over the world. The presence of stenosis (plaque) in the coronary arteries results in the restriction of blood supply, leading to myocardial infarction. The current study investigates the influence of multi stenosis on hemodynamic properties in a patient-specific left coronary artery. Design/methodology/approach – A three-dimensional model of the patient-specific left coronary artery was reconstructed based on computed tomography (CT) scan images using MIMICS-20 software. The diseased model of the left coronary artery was investigated, having the narrowing of 90% and 70% of area stenosis (AS) at the left anterior descending (LAD) and left circumflex (LCX), respectively. Findings – The results indicate that the upstream region of stenosis experiences very high pressure for 90% AS during the systolic period of the cardiac cycle. The pressure drops maximum as the flow travels into the stenotic zone, and the high flow velocities were observed across the 90% AS. The higher wall shear stresses occur at the stenosis region, and it increases with the increase in the flow rate. It is found that the maximum wall shear stress across 90% AS is at the highest risk for rupture. A recirculation region immediately after the stenosis results in the further development of stenosis. Originality/value – The current study provides evidence that there is a strong effect of multi-stenosis on the blood flow in the left coronary artery.

Osama Mehanna,1,2 Ahmad El Askary,3,4 Ebtesam Ali,5 Basem El Esawy,3,6 Tamer FathAlla,7 Amal F Gharib3,8 1Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, New Damietta, Egypt; 3Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; 4Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, New Damietta, Egypt; 5Directorate of Health Affairs, Gharbia Governorate, Ministry of Health and Population, Cairo, Egypt; 6Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Al Mansurah, Egypt; 7Department of Anaesthesia and ICU, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, New Damietta, Egypt; 8Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, EgyptCorrespondence: Osama Mehanna Email dr587@yahoo.comBackground: There is great variability in clinical presentation of COVID-19 worldwide. The current study evaluated the impact of obesity and its related complications on the course of COVID-19 in Egyptian patients.Methods: We included 230 COVID-19 Egyptian patients from Tanta City. According to their body-mass index (BMI), patient were divided into three groups: normal weight (BMI < 25 kg/m2), overweight (BMI > 25–< 30 kg/m2), and obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). Patients’ glycemic status, lipid profile, and serum levels of acute-phase reactants were assessed. The number of patients receiving intensive care and the number of deaths in each group were counted.Results: Mean values of random blood sugar, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, serum ferritin, erythrocyte-sedimentation rate, LDH, CRP, D-dimer levels, and blood pressure were significantly higher in obese patients (165.6, 129.5, 105, 1,873, 26, 403, 56.45, 977.16 and 142/87, respectively) than in normal-weight (97.2, 103.5, 70.4, 479, 17.4, 252, 23.2, 612.4, and 118.6/76.8, respectively) and overweight patients (111.4, 106.3, 78.13, 491.3, 19.8, 269.27, 25.42, 618.4, and 120.3/79.3, respectively). Lymphopenia was also significantly predominant in the obese group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that elevated serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, low density–lipoprotein cholesterol, blood pressure, ferritin, CRP, and low relative lymphocyte count were significant risk factors in obese COVID-19 patients.Conclusion: Obesity and its related complications increase the risk of presenting a more severe form of COVID-19 in Egyptian patients.Keywords: obesity, COVID-19, Egyptian

In the present work, the boiling heat transfer coefficient (BHTC) and fluid flow characteristics of graphene oxide nanoplatelets (GONPs) nano-suspensions in an annular heat exchanger (AHEX) were experimentally investigated. The BHTC, pressure drop (PD) and the friction factor (FF) of the heat exchanger was quantified, and effects of various operating conditions including heat flux (HF), flow rate (FR), the temperature of the nano-suspension and the mass concentration (MC) of the GONPs on the HTC and the PD of the system was assessed. Results showed that by increasing the HF, the weight concentration of the GONPs, and the temperature of the working fluid, the BHTC of the system increases. Also, the presence of GONPs can augment the friction forces, viscosity, and, as a result, increase the PD and the FF of the system. For all the experiments, the BHTC of the system was more significant than water. A comparison between water-perfluorohexane and water- n-pentane nano-emulsions revealed that water-n pentane has better thermal performance and lower PD in comparison with perfluorohexane despite the presence of the GONPs within the bulk of the nano-emulsion.

Abstract Destruction of the limbus and depletion of limbal stem cells (LSCs), the adult progenitors of the corneal epithelium, leads to limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). LSCD is a rare, progressive ocular surface disorder which results in conjunctivalisation and neovascularisation of the corneal surface. Many strategies have been used in the treatment of LSCD, the common goal of which is to regenerate a self-renewing, transparent, and uniform epithelium on the corneal surface. The development of these techniques has frequently resulted from collaboration between stem cell translational scientists and ophthalmologists. Direct transplantation of autologous or allogeneic limbal tissue from a healthy donor eye is regarded by many as the technique of choice. Expansion of harvested LSCs in vitro allows smaller biopsies to be taken from the donor eye and is considered safer and more acceptable to patients. This technique may be utilised in unilateral cases (autologous) or bilateral cases (living related donor). Recently developed, simple limbal epithelial transplant (SLET) can be performed with equally small biopsies but does not require in vitro cell culture facilities. In the case of bilateral LSCD, where autologous limbal tissue is not available, autologous oral mucosa epithelium can be expanded in vitro and transplanted to the diseased eye. Data on long-term outcomes (over 5 years of follow-up) for many of these procedures is needed, and it remains unclear how they produce a self-renewing epithelium without recreating the vital stem cell niche. Bioengineering techniques offer the ability to re-create the physical characteristics of the stem cell niche, while induced pluripotent stem cells offer an unlimited supply of autologous LSCs. In vivo confocal microscopy and anterior segment OCT will complement impression cytology in the diagnosis, staging, and follow-up of LSCD. In this review we analyse recent advances in the pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of LSCD.

Background and Study Aim: The target of this paper was to examine the effects of strength training with different frequency on physical, performance and strength features on untrained university male students. Material and Methods: 24 subjects (age= 21.47+1.50) were divided into three groups; 8 for strength training group once a week (ST1), 8 for strength training group three times a week (ST3) and 8 for control group (CG). The training groups were applied a 6-week ST that lasted approximately 80-90 minutes for each training 3 days a week for ST3 and once a week for ST1. Analysis of intergroup, intragroup and the effect of training were carried out with repeated measures ANOVA. Significance was set at 0.05. Results: There was no difference in body weight and body mass index values in training groups, while a significant increase was found in CG. In addition, there was a significant decrease in body fat percentage and a significant increase in skeleton muscle mass without any change in body weight and body mass index in ST3. No statistical difference was seen in 10-20 m sprint and agility tests in all groups. For vertical jump, balance test for right and left leg, there was a significant difference between the pre and post-test measurements of ST1 and ST3. In standing long jump measurements, significance was seen in favor of ST3. In strength parameter, while a significant difference was detected in bench press, shoulder press and push-up due to the development of training groups, a statistically significance was found in squat and biceps curl by reason of improvement in ST3. Conclusion: As a conclusion, it can be said that 6-week strength training with different frequency applied on untrained male students has a positive effect on physical, performance and strength features.

Abstract Background The closure of educational activities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic resulted in an unplanned shift from traditional learning to a setup that exclusively involves digital teaching and learning. Within this context, the present study aimed to explore undergraduate medical students’ perceptions regarding the effectiveness of synchronized online learning at Unaizah College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia. Methods A qualitative study was conducted using virtual focus group discussions synchronously with the help of a discussion guide consisting of seven open-ended questions. Overall, 60 medical students were recruited using a maximum variation sampling technique; these students then participated in eight focus group discussions. All interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed for thematic contents using the standard (Mayring, Kiger. M. E. and Braun.V) content analysis framework. Results A thematic content analysis yielded four core themes: (1) educational impact, (2) time management, (3) challenges encountered, and (4) preferences for the future. The online modality was well-received, and all participants agreed that online sessions were time saving and that their performance was improved due to enhanced utility of time; however, they indicated that they encountered some challenges, including methodological, content perception, technical, and behavioral challenges during sessions and online exams. Most of the preclinical students preferred online learning for the upcoming academic years. Conclusion Synchronized online classes were well-accepted by the medical students. This represents significant and promising potential for the future of medical education. The principles of the online learning model and learning outcomes should be rigorously and regularly evaluated to monitor its effectiveness.

In comparison with the stoichiometry and Zn-rich/Cu-poor compositions of Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) photovoltaic material, the properties of Cu-poor films have not been explored adequately. In this study, Cu-poor films were spin-coated from a non-hazardous methanol-based solution. Films were subject to a brief annealing process in the temperature range of 350–550 °C. As-grown and annealed films were uniform, compact, photosensitive, and free from secondary phases. As the annealing temperature increased, the size of crystallites increased and the film dislocation density decreased steadily. Films had a direct bandgap of 1.4–1.5 eV. The presence of three sub-bandgap transitions were detected and identified. By varying the annealing temperature, hole concentration, hole mobility, and film resistivity varied systematically in the range of 1016–1018 cm−3, 1–140 cm2/V-s, and 0.02–64 Ωcm, respectively. Cu-poor films showed structural and optoelectronic properties similar to the Zn-rich/Cu-poor and stoichiometric films and, thus, have the potential for device applications.

One promising technique for communicating at the nanoscale is molecular communication (MC). In a molecular-communication-via-diffusion-scenario, the memory component of the channel is very high. This gives rise to what is known as inter-symbol interference. Traditional channel coding schemes cannot be utilized in MC due to the high memory. In this paper, a novel low complexity channel coding method is proposed for the molecular communication domain. The design of the proposed channel code takes into account the capability of a nano-device and the characteristics of the molecular communication channel. Simulation results confirm that the proposed method provides a significant improvement in terms of bit error rate. Moreover, a proof-of-concept implementation of the proposed coding scheme is done on a macro-scale testbed. The reliability of the communication link is shown to be significantly increased.

In this paper, two available variants of the Schrödinger equation are studied. These two nonlinear models are characterized by considering two nonlinearity types, including Kerr and power-laws, and the conformable derivative. The integration method used in this manuscript is the generalized exponential rational function method, which is an efficient method for solving equations with partial derivatives. The technique introduces a wide range of analytical solutions for these specific structures that were not proposed in the previous literature. To investigate the behavioral characteristics and physical features of these solutions some 2D and 3D figures have been demonstrated. The method employed in this paper was able to inspect the analytical solutions for the considered equations without having the usual complexities in some other known analytical techniques. This property is one of the strengths of the present contribution. Further, the utilized method can be easily adopted for solving other nonlinear models arising in mathematical physics.

Undoubtedly, all applied sciences are closely corresponding to differential equations, especially partial differential equations. This contribution aims to examine the efficiency of a modified version of the generalized exponential rational function method in solving some well-known nonlinear evolution equations. The investigated models in this article include the Zakharov–Kuznetsov, the cubic Boussinesq, and the modified regularized long-wave equation. In the structure of these solutions, various familiar elementary functions, including exponential, trigonometric, and hyperbolic functions are used. This important feature makes it easy to use these solutions in real applications. Numerical behaviors corresponding to the obtained solutions have been demonstrated through some three-dimensional diagrams in the article. This technique can be also adopted in determining wave soliton solution to other equations with partial derivatives.

New definitions always have more capabilities in describing phenomena than the more classic and well-known concepts because they usually appear to fill the gaps in existing concepts. In this paper, we employ a new stochastic fractional system that models interactions in a mutualism–parasitism food web. The main idea of piece-wise differential and integral operators is to separate the time under study into separate time domains in which the model behaves different behaviors. The idea was recently proposed by Atangana et al., and is gradually being used to solve a variety of application models. In order to demonstrate the valuable capabilities of this approach, many numerical simulations are provided in this paper. These results are mainly obtained from studying the role of the parameters in the model on its overall behavior. The results confirm that the piece-wise approach to the problem is a wise idea with more effectiveness rather than considering the whole situation is studied by a single operator. It is recommended to use these modified operators in modeling other applied problems with similar features.

Filled square cross-section shape is the common conventional structure for n-type and p-type legs of thermoelectric generators. However, other cross-section shapes with hollow structure can significantly increase the output power of thermoelectric generator. However, mechanical strength and economic considerations may still remain as the significant challenges and factors. Hence, in this research, different hollow cross-section leg shapes are investigated for thermoelectric generator from all thermal, economic, exergetic and mechanical viewpoints simultaneously through a 3D validated numerical simulation. Output voltage/power, energy-efficiency, exergy efficiency, Von-Mises stress, and the dollar/watt value are calculated for all mentioned structures and optimum conditions are identified. As a sample result, the triangular shape leg is able to generate up to 100% more power and better conversion/exergy efficiency (compared to the rectangular) at maximum input heat flux while mechanically less reliable design. Many other remarkable and interesting findings are provided in this manuscript.

Application of thermoelectricity as the building air cooling system has not been commercialized yet. However, remarkable eco-friend characteristics of thermoelectricity encourages the researchers to enthusiastically work on different aspects of Peltier cooler to make its performance competitive with other cooling techniques. The contribution of this research is to explicitly clarify the real cooling cost made by a single popular and affordable thermoelectric module in the market under different working conditions and identify how the effective parameters can impact the cooling cost and performance of the cooler. To reach the aim of this research, a laboratory-scale thermoelectric air-water based cooler is fabricated to obtain the behavior of thermoelectric cooler under different air flow rates, room (air intake) temperatures, input power and so on. In the next step, the obtained results are employed to analyze the cost-effective features of the cooler under the mentioned working conditions. Based on the results, cost per kWh of cooling by a thermoelectric module can vary between 0.7 and 1.4 dollar depending on the range of mentioned parameters. It is interesting that, an extremum point is observed for input power of 23 W through which the cost of air cooling process is minimized and then is increased. Hence, number of employed thermoelectric modules in real big size cooler will be a key parameter to allocate an optimum input power for any individual thermoelectric module. Moreover, the cost of cooling is reduced for warmer air temperatures which shows the suitability of thermoelectric coolers for hot regions.

In this paper, a mathematical model of hepatitis B virus with vaccination and treatments is studied, Stability analysis discussed and the disease-free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium points obtained, the basic reproductive number R0 determined and became the threshold for equilibrium points stability. The study showed when R0 < 1 the disease-free equilibrium point was stable, whereas R0 > 1 the virus is endemic and the endemic equilibrium point is stable. The sensitivity analysis for the parameters that could reduce the spread of hepatitis B virus is studied. Finally the numerical simulation are established by using SageMath software package to show the effect of vaccination and treatments. We found that vaccination and also treatments give an effect on value of R0. Increasing the value of the vaccine in the immunized compartment or in the suspected compartment may decrease the value of R0 which mean reduce the spread of the disease.

This study investigates the effects of melting phenomena and non-linear thermal radiation in Cross nanofluid bioconvection flow with motile microorganisms with a convective boundary over a cylinder. Brownian motion and thermophoresis diffusion are also taken into account in this mathematical model. A governing partial differential equation is used to represent the given flow phenomena. The proper dimensionless transformation is then employed to convert the PDE controlling system into an ordinary one. Bvp4c numerically solves redesigned ODE problems using a shooting strategy in the computational tool MATLAB. Figures versus velocity, temperature distribution, nanoparticle concentration, and microbe concentration profiles are used to analyze and expound on the notably involved aspects thoroughly. It has been demonstrated that increasing the estimates of a mixed convection parameter can enhance velocity. By increasing the Prandtl number, the temperature and concentration of nanoparticles decrease. A high Peclet value lowers the microorganism's profile.

Patient satisfaction (PS) is an essential indicator of the quality of physiotherapy services. However, regarding Libya, there has been a dearth of research on PS. This cross-sectional study aimed to measure PS with outpatient physiotherapy services and to examine the sociodemographic factors that influence the levels of satisfaction in Libya. Patient satisfaction with physiotherapy services was assessed using a reliable, valid, and structured questionnaire. Data were collected from 501 patients, and the participants’ ages ranged from 18 to 79 (mean ± standard deviation = 47.19 ± 12.8), with more females (n = 312) than males (n = 189). Participants were satisfied or very satisfied with the physiotherapy they received in the domains that measure PS. The highest percentage of satisfaction was in the physiotherapists’ attributes and ability to provide detailed explanations to their patients. Patient satisfaction was also associated with gender and occupation, with females and unemployed patients reporting higher satisfaction rates. This highlights the value of surveys administered to patients during treatments, as well as the value of strategies to address the influential factors for the improvement of PS in public physiotherapy clinics in Libya.

Objective: To date, no study has investigated whether autogenous and reactive obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) types are different entities in terms of oxidative stress and inflammatory processes. The aim of this study is to compare them in terms of these features. Methods: The study was conducted in subjects with reactive OCD (n=19), autogenous OCD (n=14), and a control group (n=17). All participants were non-smokers. Sociodemographic data were collected and the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire (OBQ), and Overvalued Ideas Scale (OVIS) were administered. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), paraoxonase (PON1), total oxidant status (TOS), and total antioxidant status (TAS) were measured. Results: There were no significant differences in TAS, TOS, or oxidative stress index (OSI) between the OCD and control groups. PON1 and hs-CRP levels were higher in the OCD group, whereas IL-6 and IL-10 levels were lower. Comparison across the three groups revealed no differences in TAS, TOS, OSI, or PON1 levels; however, hs-CRP was significantly higher while IL-6 and IL-10 were significantly lower in the reactive group compared to controls. Conclusion: Our results show that, although inflammatory processes may play a role in OCD, the autogenous and reactive subtypes do not differ from each other in these respects. The classification of OCD into autogenous and reactive subtypes should be reevaluated.