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Abstract Functionally characterizing the genetic alterations that drive pancreatic cancer is a prerequisite for precision medicine. Here, we perform somatic CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis screens to assess the transforming potential of 125 recurrently mutated pancreatic cancer genes, which revealed USP15 and SCAF1 as pancreatic tumor suppressors. Mechanistically, we find that USP15 functions in a haploinsufficient manner and that loss of USP15 or SCAF1 leads to reduced inflammatory TNFα, TGF-β and IL6 responses and increased sensitivity to PARP inhibition and Gemcitabine. Furthermore, we find that loss of SCAF1 leads to the formation of a truncated, inactive USP15 isoform at the expense of full-length USP15, functionally coupling SCAF1 and USP15. Notably, USP15 and SCAF1 alterations are observed in 31% of pancreatic cancer patients. Our results highlight the utility of in vivo CRISPR screens to integrate human cancer genomics and mouse modeling for the discovery of cancer driver genes with potential prognostic and therapeutic implications.

Abstract Tumor suppressor p53 (TP53) is frequently mutated in cancer, often resulting not only in loss of its tumor-suppressive function but also acquisition of dominant-negative and even oncogenic gain-of-function traits. While wild-type p53 levels are tightly regulated, mutants are typically stabilized in tumors, which is crucial for their oncogenic properties. Here, we systematically profiled the factors that regulate protein stability of wild-type and mutant p53 using marker-based genome-wide CRISPR screens. Most regulators of wild-type p53 also regulate p53 mutants, except for p53 R337H regulators, which are largely private to this mutant. Mechanistically, FBXO42 emerged as a positive regulator for a subset of p53 mutants, working with CCDC6 to control USP28-mediated mutant p53 stabilization. Additionally, C16orf72/HAPSTR1 negatively regulates both wild-type p53 and all tested mutants. C16orf72/HAPSTR1 is commonly amplified in breast cancer, and its overexpression reduces p53 levels in mouse mammary epithelium leading to accelerated breast cancer. This study offers a network perspective on p53 stability regulation, potentially guiding strategies to reinforce wild-type p53 or target mutant p53 in cancer.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Precise diagnosis of CRC plays a crucial role in increasing patient survival rates and formulating effective treatment strategies. Deep learning algorithms have demonstrated remarkable proficiency in the precise categorization of histopathology images. In this article, we introduce a novel deep learning model, termed DeepCon which incorporates the divide-and-conquer principle into the classification task. DeepCon has been methodically conceived to scrutinize the influence of acquired composition on the learning process, with a specific application to the classification of histology images related to CRC. Our model harnesses pre-trained networks to extract features from both the source and target domains, employing a two-stage transfer learning approach encompassing multiple loss functions. Our transfer learning strategy exploits a learned composition of decomposed images to enhance the transferability of extracted features. The efficacy of the proposed model was assessed using a clinically valid dataset of 5000 CRC images. The experimental results reveal that DeepCon when coupled with the Xception network as the backbone model and subjected to extensive fine-tuning, achieved a remarkable accuracy rate of 98.4% and an F1 score of 98.4%.

This study aims to highlight the challenges that undergraduates face when traveling a significant distance from home to study. These challenges are psychological, financial, and nutritional. The study was descriptive and based on a survey conducted to investigate the challenges faced by university students while studying away from their hometown. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 214 undergraduates between February and April 2021. The collected data were analyzed using the computer program SPSS version 24. Pearson's Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were applied to observe associations between qualitative variables. A total of 214 undergraduates participated in the study, with a median age of 22 years. The study found significant relationships between weight change and housing (P < 0.001), weight change and distance (P < 0.001), level of homesickness and housing (P < 0.001), level of homesickness and college distance (P < 0.001), and financial status with housing (P = 0.025). The study revealed that a significant number of undergraduate participants face psychological, financial, and nutritional challenges. These challenges include psychosocial issues, such as homesickness financial difficulties, such as money issues, and nutritional concerns, such as weight changes.

Abstract A semi-industrial demineralization facility was used in six CDI cells to desalinate in two steps. A desalination cycle lowered the feedwater salinity from 1 to 0.5 g/L and produced 200 l/h of demineralized water. This process may be repeated to increase efficiency. Initially, feedwater commenced at 1 g/L. Monitoring both voltage and current during the salt ion removal indicated that CDI cells may recover 30% of the energy utilized. Furthermore, V–Q curves using charge and voltage measurements increased energy recovery by 30%. By cutting off the CDI cells' power source, the electrodes' operating voltage was recorded between 0.85 and 0.9 V, much lower than the external contacts' 1.2 V. The desalination system's efficiency could rise if the electrode voltage was measured and adjusted. In conclusion, storage tanks can provide desalinated water while minimizing water waste; hence, they should be installed. This study examined the physical–technical parameters of a CDI desalination system through experiments and several operational modes. Moreover, it revealed CDI desalination system improvements.

Objective To determine the role of heated humidified high flow therapy (HHHFT) as primary respiratory support in spontaneously breathing moderate-late, very and extreme preterm neonates with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) at a tertiary care hospital from a developing country.Design Retrospective cohort study.Setting Neonatal intensive care unit of Indus Hospital and Health Network, Karachi, Pakistan.Patients All preterm neonates with RDS and who received HHHFT as primary respiratory support were included retrospectively, while neonates with orofacial anomalies, congenital heart and lung diseases other than RDS, abdominal wall defects, encephalopathy, congenital pneumonia and received continuous positive airway pressure or invasive ventilation were excluded.Interventions HHHFT as primary respiratory support for RDS.Main outcome measures Effectiveness, duration, failure rate and complications of HHHFT as a primary respiratory support in moderate-late, very and extremely preterm neonates were evaluated.Results The cohort included 138 neonates during a period of 12 months. The median gestational age was 32 weeks, and the median birth weight was 1607 g. Grade 1–2 RDS was seen in 97%, surfactant instillation was done in 10.8% and HHHFT was provided in all the neonates as primary respiratory support. The total duration of HHHFT support was

BackgroundThis study assesses the quality and readability of Arabic online information about orthodontic pain. With the increasing reliance on the internet for health information, especially among Arabic speakers, it's critical to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of available content. Our methodology involved a systematic search using the Arabic term for (Orthodontic Pain) in Google, Bing, and Yahoo. This search yielded 193,856 results, from which 74 websites were selected based on predefined criteria, excluding duplicates, scientific papers, and non-Arabic content.Materials and methodsFor quality assessment, we used the DISCERN instrument, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks, and the Health on the Net (HON) code. Readability was evaluated using the Simplified Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG), Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES), and Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) scores.ResultsResults indicated that none of the websites received the HONcode seal. The DISCERN assessment showed median total scores of 14.96 (± 5.65), with low overall quality ratings. In JAMA benchmarks, currency was the most achieved aspect, observed in 45 websites (60.81%), but none met all four criteria simultaneously. Readability scores suggested that the content was generally understandable, with a median FKGL score of 6.98 and a median SMOG score of 3.98, indicating middle school-level readability.ConclusionThis study reveals a significant gap in the quality of Arabic online resources on orthodontic pain, highlighting the need for improved standards and reliability. Most websites failed to meet established quality criteria, underscoring the necessity for more accurate and trustworthy health information for Arabic-speaking patients.

Trihalomethane (THM) has been classified as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This study was conducted to assess the levels of trihalomethane compounds in the Riyadh city water network in two different years (2015 and 2020) and to understand the factors affecting the formation of these compounds. The study covered 15 sites in Riyadh city, distributed between the north, south, east, west and middle of the city. The results of the study indicated that the sum of the ratio of the concentration of each THM compound to its respective World Health Organization (WHO) guideline value not exceed 1 (unitless) where the combined toxicity of all total trihalomethanes THMs concentrations did not exceed the permissible limits, with values ranging between 0.01 and 0.24 at all study sites. These results were less than the recommended guide values form WHO for individual maximum concentrations of each of the THM in water for human consumption. In addition, the average concentration of free chlorine was 0.04 ppm and 0.09 ppm in 2015 and 2020, respectively, indicating that the disinfection had evolved in 2020 compared to 2015. Moreover, there was a weak relationship between trihalomethane formation and the presence of bromide ions and organic carbon, whereas a positive correlation was observed with free chlorine and pH values. The concentration of heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, cobalt and chromium were analysed by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. The results indicated that all heavy metals were within the standard limits: the maximum values were 123 ppb in 2015 and 70.39 ppb in 2020, with lead having the lowest concentration and aluminium having the highest concentration in both years. Furthermore, the ion chromatography results of the cations (sodium Na±, potassium K±, calcium Ca2+and magnesium Mg2+) and the anions (fluoride F-, bromide Br-, chloride Cl-, sulphate SO42- and nitrate NO3–) indicated that the water in this study was suitable for human consumption based on the WHO regulation and the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) standards for drinking water.

The modern real estate industry, including real estate market in Jordan, is highly competitive and challenging. This descriptive study aims to examine the effect of visual social media marketing (VSMM) on customer purchase intentions of Jordanian real estate companies. The paper used electronic word-of-mouth (e-WOM) as a mediator and reliability as a moderator of the relationship between e-WOM and customers’ purchase intention. A conceptual model comprised VSMM dimensions (informative content, entertainment content, and remunerative content), which affect the purchase intention of customers, mediated by thee WOM construct. The construct of reliability moderated the link between e-WOM and purchase intention. Questionnaires were distributed through Google Forms to respondents selected by convenience sampling; as a result, 250 responses were received. PLS-SEM was used to analyze the data and test the hypotheses. The results confirmed a significant impact of VSMM and e-WOM on purchase intentions. In addition, the study found that e-WOM mediates the relationship between VSMM and purchase intention, and reliability moderates the link between e-WOM and purchase intention. The results can help Jordanian real estate companies employ VSMM to increase their customers’ purchase intentions.

Refractive index (RI) can be used to identify a particular substance and determine its purity and concentration. The RI of glucose solution with various concentrations can be determined using a distributed Bragg reflective (DBR) device containing a nanocavity. The optical property of the reflection spectrum produced by DBR is sensitive to the variation of the refractive index. In this study, a DBR with a cavity width of 220 nm, located in the middle of the device, is designed and used to sense the variation in the refractive index of glucose at different concentrations. The proposed design showed a sharp dip pattern within the reflection spectrum. The wavelength of the absorption peak was found to be sensitive to trivial variations in the refractive index of glucose solution. Results showed that the variation in the refractive index of glucose within the order of Δn = 0.02 has led to a noticeable shift in the absorption spectrum by Δλ = 2.6 nm. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the proposed device was found to be 130 nm/RIU which is considered high compared with those reported in the literature. Hence, the proposed structure can be a promising optical device for chemical ultrasensing applications.

The purpose of this research is to examine the effect of Web Quality (WebQual) on travelers’ online behavioral intentions through examining the mediating role of travelers’ perceived trust in the context of travel agencies in Jordan. Based on the extant literature, a conceptual model was developed. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey which was administered to a convenient sample of 300 participants. Structural equation modeling SEM with smart PLS 3 was implemented as an analytical methodology to process data. The results suggest that WebQual factors are significant in predicting travelers’ behavioral intentions. Moreover, the results demonstrate that perceived trust has a significant impact on travelers’ behavioral intentions and a partial mediation was also found for travelers’ perceived trust on the relationship between WebQual and travelers’ behavioral intentions. Discussion, conclusions, research limitations and areas for future research are all provided.

Background: Compulsive buying disorder (CBD) is a dysfunctional chronic and extreme consumer attitude that attributes to negative overall impact on psychological and mental wellbeing. Objective: This study was aimed to examine the prevalence of compulsive buying disorder (CBD) among medical college students, particularly from colleges of medicine, dentistry and pharmacy. Secondary to this, we also examined (i) the association between sociodemographic factors and CBD; and (ii) the association between the five factors of CBD as per (II) Edward's Compulsive Buying Scale (ECBS) and participants' gender. Method: This cross-sectional survey was conducted among 263 college students from the colleges of medicine, dentistry and pharmacy of King Saud University from February till March 2021. Results: The results showed that the majority of participants were male (144, 54.8%) with mean age 20.1 ± 3.1 (range: 17–23); statistically significant difference was observed in compulsive buying disorder with respect to gender (P-value = 0.02), field of study (P < 0.0001) and educational year (P = 0.03). Conclusion: The study concluded that the prevalence of compulsive buying among university students was more frequent among female students in comparison to male students in Riyadh city. This study provided baseline data for the estimation of CBD prevalence among adolescent and youth in KSA, particularly Riyadh city.

AbstractOrganizations realizes that, after COVID-19, remote e-working will be the new working arrangement for a sizable portion of their workforce. In light of this, this study attempted to unlock the black box of remote e-working effectiveness and e-HRM practices by theoretically and empirically establishing the path by which they may deliver value to the business. Accordingly, the study investigates the effects of remote e-working and e-HRM practices on organizational commitment via the mediation of job satisfaction. The data used for this research were collected from 273 participants from 25 commercial banks in Jordan using self-administrated electronic questionnaire. The PLS-SEM method was used to analyze the data. The results supported the study hypotheses revealing that e-HRM practices positively affect remote e-working effectiveness by enabling a real-time information based communication, interactive work environment, e-training, and e-performance appraisal. The findings show that since it gives employees more control over how much time they devote to work and family life, remote e-working improves employee focus levels while they are working from home. Their satisfaction is therefore increased. Furthermore, Job satisfaction is significant predictors of whether remote work enhances organizational commitment. A satisfied e-worker will feel more emotionally connected to the organization and more obligated remain in the organization. Our research provides evidence that remote e-working effectiveness and e-HRM practices have an effect on organizational commitment and this relationship becomes stronger when it mediated by Job satisfaction. Conclusion, limitations, and future research directions are included.

Abstract Background Breast cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease with multiple drivers and complex regulatory networks. Periostin (Postn) is a matricellular protein involved in a plethora of cancer types and other diseases. Postn has been shown to be involved in various processes of tumor development, such as angiogenesis, invasion, cell survival and metastasis. The expression of Postn in breast cancer cells has been correlated with a more aggressive phenotype. Despite extensive research, it remains unclear how epithelial cancer cells regulate Postn expression. Methods Using murine tumor models and human TMAs, we have assessed the proportion of tumor samples that have acquired Postn expression in tumor cells. Using biochemical approaches and tumor cell lines derived from Neu+ murine primary tumors, we have identified major regulators of Postn gene expression in breast cancer cell lines. Results Here, we show that, while the stromal compartment typically always expresses Postn, about 50% of breast tumors acquire Postn expression in the epithelial tumor cells. Furthermore, using an in vitro model, we show a cross-regulation between FGFR, TGFβ and PI3K/AKT pathways to regulate Postn expression. In HER2-positive murine breast cancer cells, we found that basic FGF can repress Postn expression through a PKC-dependent pathway, while TGFβ can induce Postn expression in a SMAD-independent manner. Postn induction following the removal of the FGF-suppressive signal is dependent on PI3K/AKT signaling. Conclusion Overall, these results reveal a novel regulatory mechanism and shed light on how breast tumor cells acquire Postn expression. This complex regulation is likely to be cell type and cancer specific as well as have important therapeutic implications.

Cosmetic marketing is one of the most profitable and fast increasing markets in Kurdistan Region of Iraq. In recent years, the use of cosmetics has witnessed a rapid increase, especially with the emergence of social media and its impact on this trade. The market is full of different cosmetic brands and nail products. Moderate and low-quality brands of cosmetic samples that available in the local markets were selected to investigate their heavy metals and chemical composition. Samples from face foundation, eye shadow, and nail polish products were taken and examined to evaluate the concentration of metals, that is, Hg, Pb, Cd, As, Mn, Cr, Ni, Co, Fe, Zn, Cu, and Al ions, using X-ray diffraction and X-ray fluorescence techniques. The examination results show high concentrations of Fe and Al metals in the lipstick samples whereas the Hg, Cd, Cr, and Ni were out of detection limit. Moreover, the results show contamination of Hg heavy metal in one of the examined nail polishes brands, whereas the rest of foundation and eye shadow samples show a higher concentration of Al and Fe. Curcumin, as a natural bio-friendly chelate, has been used to deplete metal ions using ultraviolet-visible Spectrophotometer.

Abstract Background Approximately 5–10% of HER2-positive breast cancers can be defined by low expression of the Ste20-like kinase, SLK, and high expression of SOX10. Our lab has observed that genetic deletion of SLK results in the induction of Sox10 and significantly accelerates tumor initiation in a HER2-induced mammary tumor model. However, the mechanism responsible for the induction of SOX10 gene expression in this context remains unknown. Methods Using tumor-derived cell lines from MMTV-Neu mice lacking SLK and biochemical approaches, we have characterized the signaling mechanisms and relevant DNA elements driving Sox10 expression. Results Biochemical and genetic analyses of the SOX10 regulatory region in SLK-deficient mammary tumor cells show that Sox10 expression is dependent on a novel −7kb enhancer that harbors three SoxE binding sites. ChIP analyses demonstrate that Sox9 is bound to those elements in vivo. Our data show that AKT can directly phosphorylate Sox9 in vitro at serine 181 and that AKT inhibition blocks Sox9 phosphorylation and Sox10 expression in SLK(-/-) tumor cells. AKT-mediated Sox9 phosphorylation increases its transcriptional activity on the Sox10 −7kb enhancer without altering its DNA-binding activity. Interestingly, analysis of murine and human mammary tumors reveals a direct correlation between the levels of active phospho-Sox9 S181 and Sox10 expression. Conclusions Our results have identified a novel Sox10 enhancer and validated Sox9 as a direct target for AKT. As Sox10 is a biomarker for triple-negative breast cancers (TNBC), these findings might have major implications in the targeting and treatment of those cancers.

Abstract Inflammation is a natural defense process of the innate immune system, associated with the release of proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-12 and TNFα; and enzymes including iNOS through the activation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 due to the phosphorylation of IκBα. Regulation of intracellular Ca2+ is considered a promising strategy for the prevention of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and accumulation of DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) that occurs in inflammatory-associated-diseases. Among the metabolites of ellagitannins that are produced in the gut microbiome, urolithin A (UA) has received an increasing attention as a novel candidate with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects. Here, we investigated the effect of UA on the suppression of pro-inflammatory molecules and NF-κB activation by targeting TLR4 signalling pathway. We also identified the influence of UA on Ca2+ entry, ROS production and DSBs availability in murine bone-marrow-derived macrophages challenged with lipopolysaccharides (LPS). We found that UA inhibits IκBα phosphorylation and supresses MAPK and PI3K activation. In addition, UA was able to reduce calcium entry, ROS production and DSBs availability. In conclusion, we suggest that urolithin A is a promising therapeutic agent for treating inflammatory diseases through suppression of NF-κB and preserving DNA through maintaining intracellular calcium and ROS homeostasis.

Context: Mentorship is an integral part of the professional and academic growth; however, the position of mentorships in anesthesia is still yet to be understood. As an attempt to understand this phenomenon, we targeted Riyadh Anesthesiology residents and program directors to explore their perception of mentorship relationships. Aims: The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence of mentorship in anesthesiology training and to assess the perspective of mentorship from anesthesiology residents. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional study. Methods and Material: We administered a 20-item validated cross-sectional survey to program directors and anesthesia residents to all Riyadh SCFHS anesthesiology departments. Residents were asked about their perceptions of barriers and benefits to effective mentoring. Statistical Analysis Used: IBM SPSS version 23 and Microsoft Office Excel version 2010. Results: Fifty anesthesiology residents and three program directors responded to our survey. The majority of residents agreed that mentorship was beneficial to the overall success as an anesthesiologist (36 of 50, 72%). Although all three program directors reported that a formal mentorship program is part of their residency program (3 of 3, 100%), only (25 of 50, 50%) responded with access to a mentor. Difficulties reported included lack of formalized meeting times, insufficient times with mentors, and mentor-mentee incompatibility. Conclusions: In conclusion, the study indicated the positive perspective and high principles to mentorship held by anesthesiology residents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It evidenced the beneficial, professional, and social impact that mentoring hails to the development of future anesthesiologists, and despite all that, it remains underutilized.

This research paper aims to investigate the effect of Internet of Things (IoT) on Search Engine Optimization (SEO) by considering the mediating role of user behavior on this effect. A conceptual research model was developed in accordance with the UTAUT and based on a thorough analysis of extant research. A self-handled questionnaire survey was administered to a purposely selected sample of employees working in telecommunications companies in Jordan. A dataset of 131 usable questionnaires were subjected to data analysis using SmartPLS 3.0. The main findings showed that IoT affected SEO and user behavior. User behavior was also found to be significantly predicted by IoT and to mediate its effect on SEO. The results revealed the significance of SEO as an emerging effective electronic marketing tool in encouraging consumers' adoption of new technologies. The paper ends with a discussion of findings, conclusions, and areas for future research.

In recent times, there has been a significant decline in hotel occupancy rates, and this is primarily due to marketing performance. Hoteliers and the decision-makers are thus seeking new strategies to increase occupancy rates by enhancing marketing performance. The present work examined the relationship between customer relationship management performance and marketing performance by considering the moderating role of social customer relationship management on this relationship. In this work, both the “Resource-Based View Theory” and “Social Exchange Theory” were employed. Data from hotel managers in Jordan were collected, with 139 responses being collected and analyzed altogether. “Smart Partial Least Squares” were used for the analysis process, which showed that customer relationship management performance positively impacted marketing performance, and that Social customer relationship management also had a positive effect on marketing performance. Moreover, the relationship between customer relationship management performance and marketing performance is enhanced through social customer relationship management. These findings can be used by hoteliers to develop effective marketing strategies using new technology and communication tools.

Illegal dumping is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately to preserve human health and the environment as if the pollution that arises from it reaches the groundwater, complications of the remediation processes will increase. To decontaminate the organic and inorganic components, bioremediation seems to be the most environmentally friendly and economically viable technique without further treatment as reported by many studies. In this investigation, samples were taken from the soil of the main dumping area in Koysinjaq in Kurdistan Region of Iraq to determine the most potent bacteria to remediate the existed pollutants. The existence of non-essential minerals and organic compounds in the soil sample was detected using X-ray fluorescence device, and ethane and 1,2-dichloroethane solvents separating technique, respectively. Then, from the same samples, three different naturally occurring bacteria were isolated and cultured under optimized conditions then stimulated for a good result. Finally, spectrophotometer was set at wavelength of 600 nm and used to detect the heaviest growth of bacteria after incubating the cultured bacteria on a mineral salt broth medium with the extracted pollutants at pH 7.0 overnight at 32°C. Based on the highest absorbance, the most effective type of bacteria (Enterobacter cloacae) was chosen among others to remediate the organic components in which approximately 90% of them are plastics, medical waste, municipal waste, electrical items, and hydrocarbons, and some heavy metals, for instance aluminum and lead, which were found in the soil.

With the help of first principles calculations, we have explored a promising route to control the magnetic properties of two-dimensional organic polymers based on all-carbon triangulene monomers. Similar to small triangulene nanostructures, the Kagome-organized triangulene polymer exhibits an antiferromagnetic ground state, but behaves as a Mott-insulator with relatively poor carrier mobilities. The doping of triangulenes with boron or nitrogen atoms contributes to switch the ground state of the polymer into a stable ferromagnetic phase, well separated in energy from the antiferromagnetic phase. The existence of a stable ferromagnetic phase is a direct consequence of electron confinement within B/N-rich triangulenes, where the D3h symmetry of the monomers in the Kagome pattern plays a major role on the resulting electronic structure properties. In addition, the two-dimensional Kagome lattice arrangement of B-rich triangulene polymer leads to highly dispersed spin-polarized semiconducting bands and high carrier mobilities that largely exceed known values for pure silicon. In contrast, the ferromagnetic phase of N-rich polymer shows half-metallic behaviour with lower mobilities than B-rich cases. Our results suggest that triangulene-based polymers could be used in diverse sectors from spin-based logic devices to quantum storage applications.

Abstract Background The focus of this study was to explore potential differences in colonic mucosal microbiota in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients compared to a control group utilizing a metagenomic study. Methods Mucosal microbiota samples were collected from each IBS patient utilizing jet‐flushing colonic mucosa in unified segments of the colon with distilled water, followed by aspiration, during colonoscopy. All the purified dsDNA was extracted and quantified before metagenomic sequencing using an Illumina platform. An equal number of healthy age‐matched controls were also examined for colonic mucosal microbiota, which were obtained during screening colonoscopies. Results The microbiota data on 50 IBS patients (31 females), with a mean age 43.94 ± 14.50 (range19–65), were analyzed in comparison to 50 controls. Satisfactory DNA samples were subjected to metagenomics study, followed by comprehensive comparative phylogenetic analysis. Metagenomics analysis was carried out, and 3.58G reads were sequenced. Community richness (Chao) and microbial structure in IBS patients were shown to be significantly different from those in the control group. Enrichment of Oxalobacter formigenes, Sutterella wadsworthensis, and Bacteroides pectinophilus was significantly observed in controls, whereas enrichment of Collinsella aerofaciens, Gemella morbillorum, and Veillonella parvula Actinobacteria was observed significantly in the IBS cohort. Conclusion The current study has demonstrated significant differences in the microbiota of IBS patients compared to controls.

Abstract Objectives The aim of the present study was to measure the thickness of the palatal mucosa in a Jordanian (Middle Eastern) population as well as identify possible factors that may influence the thickness of palatal mucosa. Material and Methods Sixty period on tally healthy subjects (29 males and 31 females) were selected. Fifteen measurement points were defined on the palate. The mucosal thickness in the hard palate was determined by “bone sounding” with a Hu‐Friedy® round periodontal probe. Results The overall mean thickness of the palatal masticatory mucosa was 3.23 ± 0.47 mm.The mean thickness increased from the gingival margin to a more apical position irrespective of the tooth measured or side of the mouth in the following sequence: canine, second molar, first premolar, second premolar and lastly, the first molar. No significant difference between gender, smoking status, gingival phenotype andsides of the mouth with the thickness of palatal masticatory mucosa was determined. A significant difference between palatal shape and palatal gingival thickness was found. Conclusions The most appropriate site for graft harvesting is the canine‐premolar area 8‐13 mm from the mid‐palatal aspect of each respective tooth in a Jordanian population. Except for the palatal shape, the side of the mouth, smoking, gender or gingival phenotype does not affect the graft harvest. Clinical Relevance Scientific Rationale for Study Knowledge on the thickness of the masticatory mucosa is crucialin making decisions for surgical treatment modality and may affect surgical outcome. We measured the thickness of the palatal mucosa in a Jordanian population and identified possible influencing factors. Principal Findings The thickness varied according to the teeth and the canine to premolar region was found to be the appropriate donor site. Practical Implications This information on safe zone for graft harvest can guide the periodontist to make appropriate incisions and choose the appropriate location to obtain a graft of adequate thickness and dimensions.

A 13-year-old female patient with Noonan’s syndrome, intra-oral periodontitis, and associated periodontal lesions is presented in this case report. The patient suffered early onset severe molar pattern periodontitis and recurrent intra-oral inflammatory lesions, pyogenic granuloma, and plasmacytosis, which were excised and controlled using a strict oral hygiene protocol based on long-term use of chlorhexidine-based products as auxiliary aid to regular home care and brushing.

Hundreds of billions of aluminium-based cans are manufactured and used every year worldwide including those containing soft drinks. This study investigates and evaluates the performance and quality of two well-known energy and soft drinks brands, Green Cola and Red Bull. Recent health hazards and concerns have been associated with aluminium leakage and bisphenol A (BPA) dissociation from the can’s internal protective coating. The cans were examined under four conditions, including coated and uncoated samples, the soft drink’s main solution, and 0.1 M acetic acid solution. Electrochemical measurements such as potentiodynamic polarization and impedance spectroscopy (EIS), element analyses using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were performed. In addition, sample characterization by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) were employed to comprehensively study and analyze the effect of corrosion on the samples. Even though the internal coating provided superior corrosion protection concerning main or acetic acid solutions, it failed to prevent aluminium from dissolving in the electrolyte. Green Cola’s primary solution appears to be extremely corrosive, as the corrosion rate increased by approximately 333% relative to the acetic acid solution. Uncoated samples resulted in increases in the percentage of oxygen, the appearance of more corrosion spots, and decreases in crystallinity. The ICP-OES test detected dangerous levels of aluminium in the Green Cola solution, which increased significantly after increasing the conductivity of the solution.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is mostly a mild condition, however, in some patients, it could progress into a severe and even fatal disease. Recent studies have shown that COVID-19 infection and severity could be associated with the presence of periodontitis, one of the most prevalent chronic diseases. This association could be explained by the fact that periodontitis and COVID-19 share some common risk factors that included chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension as well as conditions such as age, sex, and genetic variants. Another possible explanation could be the systemic inflammation and the aspiration of periodontopathogens seen in patients with periodontitis, which could have a synergism with the virus or compromise the reaction of the body against COVID-19. This narrative review explores the nature of these associations, the evidence behind them, and their implications.

Two-dimensional photonic crystal nanocavities were designed to tailor cavity quantum electrodynamics. Enhancing the spontaneous emission of low-quality factor nanocavity with embedded CdSe quantum dots (QDs) emitters is the aim of this study. Low concentration layer of CdSe QDs was sandwiched between two layers of Si2 N3 membrane using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The modification rate in spontaneous emission of L3 nanocavity up to 2.3-fold has been observed at 629.5 nm in compare to bare cavities. High field confinement in the sub-wavelength regime became an interest field for quantum electrodynamics applications and good platform to study light matter interactions.

Recently, bottled water consumption has been increasing significantly, even when the quality of tap water is considered excellent, which contributes to plastic pollution. Besides, reducing the use of plastic generally is recommended world widely, as its consumption is in an alarming rate. Therefore, this study aims to compare the tap and bottled water and manifest the reasons behind choosing the bottled water, which is less comfortable and often more expensive over the tap water. In this study, samples have been taken from both bottled and tap water in Koya city from November 2020 to May 2021 to test their quality using PH, DO, EC, and TDS meter, hardness was determined by complexometric titration method at 21°C, and XRF spectrometers. According to the quality standards, most of the variables were in a permissible range, except for dissolved oxygen and Aluminum content in both types of water and TDS for two types of bottled water. However, the quality of tap water was much safer to be used, as compared with the bottled water.

Background: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been found in protein-rich food products where they are generated during certain food processing procedures. Benzo[a]pyrene (B(a)P) is a member of a class of PAHs in which the molecular structure includes two or more fused aromatic rings with adjacent rings sharing two or more carbon atoms with the formula C20H12. Dietary intake of these compounds via a formation of B(a)P on processing or cooking lead to metastasis of tumors at several sites, particularly in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Objective: We aimed to determinate B(a)P in charcoal and gas broiled chicken, doner kebab and fish meats taken from some restaurants in Baghdad. Methods: Prospective study was done in Baghdad from july to decemper 2015 in (Palestine st and alsadria). 120 samples of chicken, doner kebab and fish were collected from some resturants in Baghdad area randomly.A 20 cooked samples using a charcoal fire and gas fire for each kind of meat mentioned above to determinate B(a)P in these samples.HPLC technique was used for determination. Results: Mean levels of B(a)P were found to be (11.6±11.08 μg/kg) ,(10.0±9.4 μg/kg) and (8.4±7.8 μg/kg) for a charcoal fire broiled chicken, doner kebab and fish respectively while mean levels of B(a)P were found to be (2.5±1.9 μg/kg) ,(2.3±1.7 μg/kg) and (2.0±1.4 μg/kg) for a gas fire respectively. Conclusion: The B(a)P levels of three samples cooked on a charcoal fire exceeded the maximum tolerance level for B(a)P of the European Union establishment (2005). The highest levels of B(a)P were found in charcoal-grilled samples.Therefore,present study provides important information on B(a)P in charcoal grilled meats in Iraq. This might help to avoid the contamination in food processing to secure food safety and to protect iraqi citizens.

Background: To maintain patient flow despite emergency department (ED) crowding, many hospitals place patients in spaces not originally designed for the initial evaluation of patients ("hallway bed"). Such spaces have a variable degree of privacy and often lack call bells, oxygen, suction, or monitors. Little is known about how the use of hallway beds effects the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and patient safety. We sought to describe the profile of patients whose evaluation was initiated in ED "hallway beds". Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted in a single, urban, academic ED between June 2018 and June 2019. We included all patients presenting to ED whose bed assignment was a "hallway bed". We examined patient's demographic characteristics (including insurance status, race, and ethnicity), mean LOS, mode of ED arrival, emergency severity index(ESI), and disposition. Results: A total of 13,100 patients had their ED evaluation initiated in a hallway bed. The mean (SD) age of patients was 46 (17) years, and 54% were male. ESI 2 (emergent) were 44%, ESI 3 (urgent) 45%, ESI 4 (less urgent) 8.9 %, ESI 5 (non urgent) 1%, 45 % of patients arrived by ambulance. The most common chief complaints were ethanol intoxication (8.5%), altered mental status (3.5%), abdominal pain (3%), chest pain (2.6%), and fall (2.1%). Among the study population, 62% were black or African American, and 21% Caucasian. The mean (SD) total ED LOS was 7.29 (4.47) hours, 75 % of patients were discharged home, 12.4% were admitted as inpatient, and 1.8 % admitted to observation status. The total order of computed tomography scan was 6,569 and x-ray was 8,955. Conclusion: The use of "hallway bed"" for patients with serious illness is frequent in our ED and a direct result of the "boarding crisi". It is believed that this practice is widespread and is often unacknowledged by the hospitals administration and regulatory agencies. Further studies into how "hallway bed" can be optimally utilized could benefit patient care periods of high ED crowding. [SJEMed 2020; 1(1.100): 2S-2S]

In recent years, the popularity of social media networks has attracted the attention of researchers, government agencies, politicians and business world alike, as a powerful platform to explore real-time trends. The data generated by these networks offers an opportunity to investigate people's behaviors and activities, but the high velocity and low quality of this data poses some unique challenges. Twitter, an example of social media networks, is particularly popular for this purpose due to its easily accessible API that is open to use for research purposes. Different techniques can be used to analyze patterns from available data. One of such techniques for extracting subjective information from any text such as opinions on various topics is Sentiment Polarity Classification, which quantifies emotions embedded in texts and classifies them as positive, negative or neutral. The focus of this paper is on preparing and analyzing real-time twitter streams to detect real-time trends on a particular topic using Sentiment Polarity Classification. We have used StreamSensing approach and have performed a supervised machine learning on real-time high velocity data using Apache Spark micro-batching technology to classify the opinions and feelings of people in real-time. Appropriate experiments for processing high rate of incoming streams have been carefully designed and conducted on live twitter data. The outcomes of these experiments were analyzed and presented. The findings of this paper fell into two perspectives: theoretical and practical. The theoretical perspective is seen in testing and confirming the validity of StreamSensing approach as well as the introduction of a sentimental polarity algorithm, while practically; this approach can be employed to perform trend analyses on any real-time streams related to live events.

Orthogonal spin ordering is rarely observed in magnetic oxides because nearest-neighbor symmetric Heisenberg superexchange interactions usually dominate. We have discovered that in the quadruple perovskite CaFe_{3}Ti_{4}O_{12}, where only the S=2 Fe^{2+} ion is magnetic, long-range magnetic order consisting of an unusual arrangement of three interpenetrating orthogonal sublattices is stabilized. Each magnetic sublattice corresponds to a set of FeO_{4} square planes sharing a common orientation. This multi-k magnetic spin ordering is the result of fourth-neighbor spin couplings with a strong easy-axis anisotropy. In an applied magnetic field, each sublattice tends towards ferromagnetic alignment, but remains polarized by internal magnetic fields generated by the others, thus stabilizing in a noncollinear canted ferromagnetic structure. CaFe_{3}Ti_{4}O_{12} provides a rare example of how nontrivial long-range spin order can arise when near-neighbor Heisenberg superexchange is quenched.

Lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and pneumonia are causing many global health problems. The COVID-19 pandemic has directed the scientific community’s attention toward performing more research to explore novel therapeutic drugs for pulmonary diseases. Herein, gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry tentatively identified 44 compounds in frankincense ethanol extract (FEE). We investigated the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of FEE against Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, isolated from patients with respiratory infections. In addition, its in vitro immunomodulatory activity was explored by the detection of the gene expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cycloxygenase-2 (COX-2), and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). In addition, its anticancer activity against the A549 lung cancer cell line and human skin fibroblast (HSF) normal cell line was studied. Moreover, the in vivo lung protective potential of FEE was explored histologically and immunohistochemically in mice using a benzo(a)pyrene induced lung damage model. FEE exhibited antibacterial and antibiofilm activities besides the significant inhibition of gene expression of TNFα, IL-6, and NF-κB. FEE also exerted a cytotoxic effect against A549 cell line. Histological and immunohistochemical investigations with morphometric analysis of the mean area percentage and color intensity of positive TNF-α, COX-2, and NF-κB and Bcl-2 reactions revealed the lung protective activity of FEE. This study outlined the promising therapeutic activity of oleoresin obtained from B. dalzielii in the treatment of different pulmonary diseases.

Background/Aims: Key properties of tumor cells include enhanced glycolytic flux with excessive consumption of glucose and formation of lactate. As glycolysis is highly sensitive to cytosolic pH, maintenance of glycolysis requires export of H+ ions, which is in part accomplished by Na+/H+ exchangers, such as NHE1. The carrier is sensitive to oxidative stress. Growth of tumor cells could be suppressed by the polyphenol Ellagic acid, which is found in various fruits and vegetables. An effect of Ellagic acid on transport processes has, however, never been reported. The present study thus elucidated an effect of Ellagic acid on cytosolic pH (pHi), NHE1 transcript levels, NHE1 protein abundance, Na+/H+ exchanger activity, and lactate release. Methods: Experiments were performed in Ishikawa cells without or with prior Ellagic acid (20 µM) treatment. NHE1 transcript levels were determined by qRT-PCR, NHE1 protein abundance by Western blotting, pHi utilizing (2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5-(and-6)-carboxyfluorescein [BCECF] fluorescence, Na+/H+ exchanger activity from Na+ dependent realkalinization after an ammonium pulse, cell volume from forward scatter in flow cytometry, reactive oxygen species (ROS) from 2’,7’-dichlorodihydrofluorescein fluorescence, glucose uptake utilizing 2-(N-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl)amino)-2-deoxyglucose, and lactate concentration in the supernatant utilizing a colorimetric (570 nm)/ fluorometric enzymatic assay. Results: A 48 hour treatment with Ellagic acid (20 µM) significantly decreased NHE1 transcript levels by 75%, NHE1 protein abundance by 95%, pHi from 7.24 ± 0.01 to 7.02 ± 0.01, Na+/H+ exchanger activity by 77%, forward scatter by 10%, ROS by 82%, glucose uptake by 58%, and lactate release by 15%. Conclusion: Ellagic acid (20µM) markedly down-regulates ROS formation and NHE1 expression leading to decreased Na+/H+ exchanger activity, pHi, glucose uptake and lactate release in endometrial cancer cells. Those effects presumably contribute to reprogramming and growth inhibition of tumor cells.

Introduction Epinephrine is recommended for patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). However, whether epinephrine improves or adversely affects OHCA outcomes is controversial. Objectives This study aims to determine whether the frequency of epinephrine administration impacts OHCA patient survival. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of OHCA cases registered in the Emergency Department at King Fahd University Hospital, Saudi Arabia between 2005 and 2015. The primary outcomes were mortality and survival rates until discharge. The impact of epinephrine administration timing and frequency on patient survival was analyzed. Results Data from 300 OHCA cases were analyzed. Among them, 66.3% were men, and the overall mean age of 50.4 ± 20.6 years. The overall survival rate until hospital discharge was 12%. There was no statistically significant difference between in gender, age, or time interval to the first epinephrine dose in the survival and non-survival groups. Only the number of epinephrine doses was related to the survival outcome. Conclusion Non-survivors received significantly more epinephrine doses compared with survivors. However, a causal relationship between OHCA patient survival and epinephrine dose and time cannot be confirmed. Further studies are needed to investigate whether the long-term outcomes in OHCA patients are influenced by the timing and frequency of epinephrine administration.

Background and Aim. Because genetic and geographic variations in intestinal microbiota are known to exist, the focus of this study was to establish an estimation of microbiota in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients in Saudi Arabia by means of metagenomic studies. Methods. From July 2010 to November 2012, colorectal cancer patients attending our hospital were enrolled for the metagenomic studies. All underwent clinical, endoscopic, and histological assessment. Mucosal microbiota samples were collected from each patient by jet-flushing colonic mucosa with distilled water at unified segments of the colon, followed by aspiration, during colonoscopy. Total purified dsDNA was extracted and quantified prior to metagenomic sequencing using an Illumina platform. Satisfactory DNA samples (n=29) were subjected to metagenomics studies, followed by comprehensive comparative phylogenetic analysis. An equal number of healthy age-matched controls were also examined for colonic mucosal microbiota. Results. Metagenomics data on 29 patients (14 females) in the age range 38–77 years were analyzed. The majority 11 (37%) of our patients were overweight (BMI = 25–30). Rectal bleeding was the presenting symptom in 18/29 (62%), while symptomatic anemia was the presenting symptom in 11/29 (37%). The location of colon cancer was rectal in 14 (48%), while cecal growth was observed in 8 (27%). Hepatic flexure growth was found in 1 (3%), descending colonic growth was found in 2 (6%), and 4 (13%) patients had transverse colon growth. The metagenomics analysis was carried out, and a total of 3.58G reads were sequenced, and about 321.91G data were used in the analysis. This study identified 11 genera specific to colorectal cancer patients when compared to genera in the control group. Bacteroides fragilis and Fusobacterium were found to be significantly prevalent in the carcinoma group when compared to the control group. Conclusion. The current study has given an insight into the microbiota of colorectal cancer patients in Saudi Arabia and has identified various genera significantly present in these patients when compared to those of the control group.

Participation is a fundamental concept in information systems research. It has been viewed to be a promising factor for the success of any IT system. However, its complex nature with respect to its conceptualization and measurement reported mix findings to the literature. In this paper, a literature review is conducted across many research disciplines to find a solid ground for proposing definition and new measures for assessing computer-recorded (e.g. online) participation. Specifically, this paper redefines traditional views on IS-related participation into a new conceptualization, and proposes methods for its operationalization to appropriately fit within recent technological contexts such as information markets.

Noorulain Khalid, Chandni Rajesh Patel, Aryan Maleki Faculty of Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UKWe read with great interest the article by Nyasulu et al1 exploring the knowledge, beliefs, and perceptions of tuberculosis (TB) among community members in Ntcheu district, Malawi. As medical students based in East London, we frequently encounter TB and recognize its burden of disease on patients. London accounts for 39% of TB cases across the whole of England,2 with East London particularly affected.3 We therefore feel the issues captured in this article are very relevant to the patient population we hope to be treating one day.View the original paper by Nyasulu and colleagues.

Aryan Maleki, Noorulain Khalid Faculty of Medicine, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UKWe read with great interest the paper by Zari and Alrahmani1 investigating the relationship between stress and acne among female medical students. These findings are relevant as around 20% of young people are affected by moderate-to-severe acne, and indeed acne severity is associated with increased risks of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation.2 The authors identified that “stress severity strongly correlated with an increase in acne severity,” and suggested that stress likely has an important role in the pathogenesis of acne.1 However, the paper could have been taken further to better establish the true extent of this relationship, and ultimately whether certain patients will benefit from clinical interventions based on their perceived stress scale. View the original paper by Zari and Alrahmani.

Background: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been found in protein-rich food products where they are generated during certain food processing procedures. Benzo[a]pyrene (B(a)P) is a member of a class of PAHs in which the molecular structure includes two or more fused aromatic rings with adjacent rings sharing two or more carbon atoms with the formula C20H12. Dietary intake of these compounds via a formation of B(a)P on processing or cooking lead to metastasis of tumors at several sites, particularly in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Objective: We aimed to determinate B(a)P in charcoal and gas broiled chicken, doner kebab and fish meats taken from some restaurants in Baghdad. Methods: Prospective study was done in Baghdad from july to decemper 2015 in (Palestine st and alsadria). 120 samples of chicken, doner kebab and fish were collected from some resturants in Baghdad area randomly.A 20 cooked samples using a charcoal fire and gas fire for each kind of meat mentioned above to determinate B(a)P in these samples.HPLC technique was used for determination. Results: Mean levels of B(a)P were found to be (11.6±11.08 μg/kg) ,(10.0±9.4 μg/kg) and (8.4±7.8 μg/kg) for a charcoal fire broiled chicken, doner kebab and fish respectively while mean levels of B(a)P were found to be (2.5±1.9 μg/kg) ,(2.3±1.7 μg/kg) and (2.0±1.4 μg/kg) for a gas fire respectively. Conclusion: The B(a)P levels of three samples cooked on a charcoal fire exceeded the maximum tolerance level for B(a)P of the European Union establishment (2005). The highest levels of B(a)P were found in charcoal-grilled samples.Therefore,present study provides important information on B(a)P in charcoal grilled meats in Iraq. This might help to avoid the contamination in food processing to secure food safety and to protect iraqi citizens.