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Abstract Background It was proposed that camels are more effective than other livestock species in selecting plants for their nutritional value. They may self-regulate their voluntary feed intake to satisfy their nutritional needs. This study was designed to investigate camels’ feeding selectivity and ability to cover nutritional requirements when grazing alfalfa (high in protein) and/ or barley (high in energy) in a desert climate. Methods Eighteen lactating camels were equally divided into three feeding treatments. They grazed daily on alfalfa, barley, or a mixed pasture of both, for two periods of one month each. The concentrate supplement was individually administered at 40 g/kg BW0.75, divided into two equal parts, in the morning and in afternoon. Total energy expenditure (EE) was estimated by heart rate (HR) monitors for 48 h after being calibrated by oxygen consumption using an upgraded face mask open-circuit respiratory system. Results During the first period, camels had a greater forage intake and digestibility when they grazed barley rather than alfalfa, while those grazing mixed pasture performed intermediately. In the second period, camels had a similar forage intake and digestibility among treatments due to a decline in barley intake and digestibility compared to the first period, which was expected since the preferred plant part gradually shifted from barley grains to predominantly straw as a function of time. Similar HR and EE were found across periods and treatments. As a result of greater gross and digestible energy intake in period 1, a better energy balance in period 1 was observed compared to period 2. Camels better utilize barley than alfalfa. Grazing on barley had a higher energy balance than grazing alfalfa alone or in combination with barley. However, camels grazing barley produced lower milk yield and energy than those grazing alfalfa alone or in combination with barley, with no interaction detected between period and treatment. Conclusions Lactating camels are able to self-regulate their voluntary intake to cover their energy requirements when they are grazing barley and/or alfalfa supplemented with a concentrate supplement at 40 g/kg BW0.75. Grazing barley is better utilized by camels than alfalfa. The chemical and physical properties of plant species play an important role in the selectivity of foraging camels. It also impacts their intake and digestibility, which is negatively associated with the proportion of cell wall content consumed.

Prostate cancer stands as a prominent contributor to male mortality in cancer cases. Docetaxel (Doc) is a commonly used treatment, but some patients do not respond well due to drug toxicity and resistance. Morusin, a prenylated flavonoid found in Morus alba, show strong anticancer properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the combined effect of morusin and docetaxel on prostate cancer cells, while exploring the underlying mechanisms. The IC50 values of morusin, docetaxel, and their combination on PC3 cells were evaluated using the sulforhodamine-B (SRB) assay. In addition, various markers including glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), inflammatory mediators (IL-6, TNF-α, NF-κB, and IL-10), NQO1, NRF2, and apoptotic markers (Bax and Bcl2) were evaluated. Co-administration of morusin and Doc significantly reduced Doc IC50 value, indicating enhanced cytotoxicity. The combination therapy affected inflammatory mediators by increasing IL-6 levels and reducing elevated TNF-α and NF-κB levels. Furthermore, the combination reduced GSH levels and augmented MDA, NQO1 and NRF2 levels, which have a crucial role in the cellular response to oxidative stress. Moreover, morusin enhanced apoptosis induced by Doc through increasing Bax levels and decreasing Bcl-2 expression. Molecular docking analyses confirmed morusins’ activity against the target proteins studied. In conclusion, the combination of morusin and docetaxel showed enhanced efficacy at lower drug concentrations in treating prostate cancer. The combination therapy may reduce drug resistance by modulating inflammatory mediators and regulating antioxidant markers. The results of this study indicate the possibility of morusin in being a supplementary treatment option for prostate cancer.

In today's world, the proliferation of electronic devices has led to a significant increase in electronic waste (e-waste) generation, necessitating the development of innovative approaches for sustainable management. E-waste recycling, which involves the recovery of valuable materials from discarded electronic devices, has emerged as a promising solution to the growing e-waste problem. This article presents an analysis of the current state of research on e-waste management, encompassing various recycling approaches, including mechanical, chemical, and biological methods. The analysis revealed that most of the research on e-waste management has focused on the development of recycling technologies, with a significant emphasis on the use of chemical methods. However, there is a growing interest in the use of biological methods, such as bioreactors and microbial technologies, for e-waste management. Many challenges including lack of uniform regulations, inadequate infrastructure, and high cost of recycling technologies were initiated. The formation of product reuse through remanufacturing, and the deployment of effective recycling facilities are necessary for the management of e-waste. The challenge is to develop innovative and cost-effective solutions to e-waste management (plastic-based e-waste and metals-based e-waste). Several technologies are currently applied to plastic-based e-waste and metals-based e-waste management. primary, secondary, and tertiary recycling of plastic-based e-waste and metallurgical approaches for metals-based e-waste are ideal methods for e-waste management. Furthermore, the techno-economic feasibility of different e-waste recycling approaches was estimated. The analysis suggests that while some recycling approaches are economically viable, there is a need for more research to optimize the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of these methods.

Abstract The cold stress susceptibility of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) curtails its cultivation, with significant impact in temperate regions and on cropping seasons. To unravel genomic regions responsible for cold stress resilience, a diverse set of fifty genotypes encompassing cultivated, wild species, and landraces were genotyped using genotyping-by-sequencing. Over two years and six trials employing both early and late sowing, these lines were evaluated. Illumina-based next-generation sequencing produced up to 3 million reads per sample from individually sequenced library pools. The Tassel pipeline yielded 10,802 variants, subsequently filtered to 3,854 SNPs for genome-wide association analysis (GWAS). Employing clustering methods (population structure) via TASSEL, SNPhylo, and Kinship matrix, the fifty genotypes clustered into four distinct gene pools. The GWAS for cold tolerance in tomato integrated key traits including yield. Using six independent phenotypic datasets representing various environments, the study identified 4,517 significant marker-trait associations for cold tolerance traits. Notably, pivotal variations (> 10%) in cold stress tolerance, particularly proline content, were linked to marker-trait associations. Additionally, 5,727 significant marker-trait associations for yield and yield-related traits were unveiled, shedding light on fruit yield and directly associated attributes. The investigation pinpointed 685 candidate genes across all examined traits, including 60 genes associated with biological processes within these genomic regions. Remarkably, 7 out of the 60 genes were directly linked to abiotic stress tolerance, functioning as stress-responsive genes either directly or indirectly. The identified genes, particularly those associated with stress response, could hold the key to enhancing cold tolerance and overall crop productivity in tomato cultivation.

Abstract Background To decipher the capability of Methyl Jasmonate (MeJA) in resisting cold stress in Solanum lycopersicum assessment regarding various physiological parameters in response to diverse doses of MeJA was done. Low temperature (LT) were given to the plants with MeJA (J1C, J2C, J3C) or without MeJA (LT) application. MeJA in the form of foliar spray was given before stress, during stress and after stress. Three concentrations of MeJA were used under normal and LT stress conditions that includes of J1 (0.5 µM), J2 (10 µM), and J3 (15 µM). Results Oxidative stress, growth characteristics, stress tolerance parameters, antioxidant response and photosynthetic parameters were investigated. In our current study we observed that oxidative stress markers declined by MeJA supplementation under cold stress conditions. MeJA boosted antioxidant enzyme activity along with photosynthetic parameters. The best concentration of MeJA was J2 based on results obtained. This is the first study related to MeJA best dose screening in Solanum lycopersicum under LT stress conditions. Conclusion The LT stress in the Solanum lycopersicum plant was reduced by MeJA. The adverse consequences of LT stress can be significantly attenuated by the J2 concentration of MeJA. So, the optimal concentration of MeJA supplied exogenously to LT stressed Solanum lycopersicum can be a smart strategy to mitigate harmful impact of LT stress on detox system and overall growth of plant.

Abstract Background The optimal revascularization strategy in patients with left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease in the emergency setting is still controversial. Thus, we aimed to compare the outcomes of percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) vs. coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with and without emergent LMCA disease. Methods This retrospective cohort study included 2138 patients recruited from 14 centers between 2015 and 2019. We compared patients with emergent LMCA revascularization who underwent PCI (n = 264) to patients who underwent CABG (n = 196) and patients with non-emergent LMCA revascularization with PCI (n = 958) to those who underwent CABG (n = 720). The study outcomes were in-hospital and follow-up all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). Results Emergency PCI patients were older and had a significantly higher prevalence of chronic kidney disease, lower ejection fraction, and higher EuroSCORE than CABG patients. CABG patients had significantly higher SYNTAX scores, multivessel disease, and ostial lesions. In patients presenting with arrest, PCI had significantly lower MACCE (P = 0.017) and in-hospital mortality (P = 0.016) than CABG. In non-emergent revascularization, PCI was associated with lower MACCE in patients with low (P = 0.015) and intermediate (P

Hylemariam Mihiretie Mengist,1,* Zunera Khalid,2,* Fentahun Adane3 1Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia; 2School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science & Technology of China, Langfang, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Hylemariam Mihiretie Mengist, Email hylemariam@gmail.comBackground: COVID-19 is still instigating significant social and economic chaos worldwide; however, there is no approved antiviral drug yet. Here, we used in silico analysis to screen potential SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) inhibitors extracted from the essential oil of Thymus schimperi which could contribute to the discovery of potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 phytochemicals.Methods: The absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) profiles of compounds were determined through SwissADME and ProToxII servers. AutoDock tools were used for molecular docking analysis studies, while Chimera, DS studio, and LigPlot were used for post-docking studies. Molecular dynamic simulations were performed for 200 ns under constant pressure.Results: All compounds exhibited a bioavailability score of ≥ 0.55 entailing that at least 55% of the drugs can be absorbed unchanged. Only five (9%), nine (16%) and two (3.6%) of the compounds showed active hepatotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and immunotoxicity, respectively. Except for flourazophore P, which showed a little mutagenicity, all other compounds did not show mutagenic properties. On the other hand, only pinene beta was found to have a little cytotoxicity. Five compounds demonstrated effective binding to the catalytic dyad of the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro substrate binding pocket, while two of them (geranylisobutanoate and 3-octane) are found to be the best hits that formed hydrogen bonds with Glu166 and Ser144 of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro.Conclusion: Based on our in silico analysis, top hits from Thymus schimperi may serve as potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are recommended to characterize these compounds for clinical applications.Keywords: structural analysis, SARS-CoV-2, main protease, inhibitors, Thymus schimperi

Abstract Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) and brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) are the most widely grown solanaceous crops in the world. However, their production has reduced over several years due to the attack of various fungal and bacterial pathogens and various abiotic factors. Still, the major constrain in their production are pathogens with fungal etiology, especially the fungal wilt of solanaceous crops. Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium solani have been previously identified as the pathogens causing wilt disease in chili and brinjal. Recently, a new fungal pathogen F. equiseti has been reported as the causal agent of wilt disease infecting chili. The current study focused on identifying fungal pathogens associated with the wilted plants of chili and brinjal, collected from different parts of the Himalayan region of Kashmir valley, through morpho-cultural and molecular characterization. DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and sequencing were performed on various isolates. DNA barcoding using the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) was used to identify the pathogen followed by the pathogenicity test. Further confirmation of the pathogen was done by sequencing of transcription elongation factor (TEF) and Calmodulin (CAL2). In current study Fusarium chlamydosporum has been reported as the wilt causing pathogen of chili and brinjal for the first time in Kashmir Himalayas.

Abstract The combination of live yeast and microalgae as feed supplementation could improve rumen fermentation and animal productivity. This study aimed to investigate the impact of a mixture of (YA) yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and microalgae (Spirulina platensis and Chlorella vulgaris) as feed supplementation on feed intake, rumen disappearance of barley straw, bacteria, and fermentation, blood parameters of camels and sheep. Three fistulated camels and three fistulated rams were fed a concentrates mixture and ad libitum barley straw as a basal diet alone or supplemented with YA mixture. The dietary supplementation improved the feed intake, rumen disappearance of barley straw nutrients, and the blood immunity parameters. The YA supplementation affected rumen fermentation as well as the composition and diversity of rumen bacteria; however, the response to the supplementation varied according to animal species. Principle Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) separated bacterial communities based on animal species and feeding treatment. Phylum Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes dominated the bacterial community; and the dominant genera were Prevotella, RC9_gut_group, Butyrivibrio, Ruminococcus, Saccharofermentans, Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, and Succiniclasticum. Our results suggest positive impacts of YA supplementation in rumen fermentation and animal performance.

The modification of the Tetraselmis sp. algae material (Tetra-Alg) with surfactant Cethyltrimethylammonium Bromide (CTAB) yielded adsorbent Tetra-Alg-CTAB as an adsorbent of methyl orange (MO) and methylene blue (MB) solutions. The characterization of the adsorbent used an infrared (IR) spectrometer to identify functional groups and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX FEI Inspect-S50, Midland, ON, Canada) to determine the surface morphology and elemental composition. Methyl orange and methylene blue adsorption on the adsorbent Tetra-Alg, Tetraselmis sp. algae-modified Na+ ions (Tetra-Alg-Na), and Tetra-Alg-CTAB were studied, including variations in pH, contact time, concentration, and reuse of adsorbents. The adsorption of MO and MB by Tetra-Alg-CTAB at pH 10, during a contact time of 90 min, and at a concentration of 250 mg L−1 resulted in MO and MB being absorbed in the amounts of 128.369 and 51.013 mg g−1, respectively. The adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherms of MO and MB and Tetra-Alg, Tetra-Alg-Na, and Tetra-Alg-CTAB tend to follow pseudo-second-order kinetics models and Freundlich adsorption isotherms with each correlation coefficient value (R2) approaching 1. Due to the modification with the cationic surfactant CTAB, anionic dyes can be strongly sorbed in alkaline pH due to strong electrostatic attraction, while MB is more likely to involve cation exchange and hydrogen bonding. The reuse of Tetra-Alg-CTAB was carried out four times with adsorption percent > 70%, and the adsorbent was very effective in the adsorption of anionic dyes such as MO.

Abstract Scavenger receptors belong to a superfamily of proteins that are structurally heterogeneous and encompass the miscellaneous group of transmembrane proteins and soluble secretory extracellular domain. They are functionally diverse as they are involved in various disorders and biological pathways and their major function in innate immunity and homeostasis. Numerous scavenger receptors have been discovered so far and are apportioned in various classes (A-L). Scavenger receptors are documented as pattern recognition receptors and known to act in coordination with other co-receptors such as Toll-like receptors in generating the immune responses against a repertoire of ligands such as microbial pathogens, non-self, intracellular and modified self-molecules through various diverse mechanisms like adhesion, endocytosis and phagocytosis etc. Unlike, most of the scavenger receptors discussed below have both membrane and soluble forms that participate in scavenging; the role of a potential scavenging receptor Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-2 has also been discussed whereby only its soluble form might participate in preventing the pathogen entry and replication, unlike its membrane-bound form. This review majorly gives an insight on the functional aspect of scavenger receptors in host defence and describes their mode of action extensively in various immune pathways involved with each receptor type. Video abstract

Rumen methanogens prevent the accumulation of fermentation gases in the rumen and generate methane that increases global warming and represents a loss in animals' gross energy. Non-traditional feed resources such as the by-products of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) and olive (Olea europaea) trees have received attention to be used in animal feeding. This study evaluated the impact of non-traditional feed resources including olive cake (OC), discarded dates (DD), and date palm frond (DPF) in sheep diet on rumen fermentation, diversity and relative abundance of rumen methanogens. Nine adult rams were assigned to three equal groups and fed three diets: traditional concentrates mixture (S1); non-traditional concentrate mixture (S2) based on DD and OC; and (S3) composed of the same S2 concentrate supplemented with DPF as a roughage part. The results showed that rumen pH was higher with S3 diet than the other two diets. However, the S1 diet showed the highest values of total volatile fatty acids (TVFA) and rumen ammonia. In addition, the proportions of acetic and butyric acids were increased, whereas propionic acid declined in S2 and S3 compared to the S1 diet. Rumen methanogens were dominated by Methanobrevibacter that showed a numeric decline by including DD, OC, and DPF in the animal diets. Principal component analysis (PCA) based on rumen fermentation parameters and relative abundances of methanogens genera showed three distinct clusters. Also, positive and negative correlations were revealed between methanogens genera and rumen metabolites. This study expands the knowledge regarding the effect of agricultural byproducts on rumen fermentation and the methanogenic community.

Abstract Aim There is an urgent need to set up a useful biomarker for ovarian cancer. Galectin-1 is a promising carbohydrate-binding protein which plays a remarkable role in various malignancies yet its clinical significance is questionable. In this study, we have tested the clinical implications of serum Galectin-1 levels in patients with ovarian tumours. Main methods Serum Galectin-1 levels were quantified in 84 newly diagnosed ovarian tumour patients and 20 healthy controls by Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay during the course of the disease. Therefore the samples were taken at diagnosis, after surgery and after chemotherapy. Key findings The Galectin-1 levels were found to be associated with various variables of Ovarian Cancer patients. The levels were found to be prominently high in postmenopausal patients. Galectin-1 levels were raised in epithelial ovarian tumours with significantly high levels in serous subtype. A decrease in Galectin-1 levels post-surgical intervention and after receiving chemotherapy was found. Galectin-1 levels evidently distinguished between normal, benign, malignant and metastatic cases as compared to CA125 levels. Galectin-1 demonstrated to be a better biomarker than CA125 according to the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Significance The study emphasizes that serum Galectin-1 may serve as a better surrogate biomarker in Ovarian Cancer for early detection, discriminating between malignant and benign abdominal masses and monitoring the progression of the disease and response to treatment.

Hydrogen is regarded as one of the utmost competent alternative fuels in the transition to net-zero emissions for the future. Nowadays, it is still majorly derived from non-renewable energy resources (i.e., fossil fuels). Regrettably, a key issue for the reliance on these depleted resources is the extremely negative impacts on our milieu. The emergence of envisioned biomass-to-sustainable H2 strategy is viewed as an appealing opportunity to generate a sustainable strategic H2. This review article summarizes the patented approaches (thermochemical, biological, and electrochemical) for H2 production from an enticing raw material of biomass. The optimization of different prominent parameters to achieve the eventual easiest way for H2 production was additionally discussed. The advancement in different operational parameters, technical challenges, and scalable improvement of each pathway was briefly addressed. Moreover, the contemporary economic viewpoints on the bankable biomass-to-H2 processes flow diagrams in terms of the circular economy were additionally highlighted in order to effectively value the biomass supply chains to produce H2. Hopefully, this work presents a more favorable theoretical in-depth mechanistic understanding of the bio-sourced hydrogen's different production pathways.

Introduction: The evidence about the optimal revascularization strategy in patients with left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease and impaired renal function is limited. Thus, we aimed to compare the outcomes of LMCA disease revascularization (percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI] vs. coronary artery bypass grafting [CABG]) in patients with and without impaired renal function. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 2,138 patients recruited from 14 centers between 2015 and 2,019. We compared patients with impaired renal function who had PCI (n= 316) to those who had CABG (n = 121) and compared patients with normal renal function who had PCI (n = 906) to those who had CABG (n = 795). The study outcomes were in-hospital and follow-up major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). Results: Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of in-hospital MACCE was significantly higher in CABG compared to PCI in patients with impaired renal function (odds ratio [OR]: 8.13 [95% CI: 4.19–15.76], p < 0.001) and normal renal function (OR: 2.59 [95% CI: 1.79–3.73]; p < 0.001). There were no differences in follow-up MACCE between CABG and PCI in patients with impaired renal function (HR: 1.14 [95% CI: 0.71–1.81], p = 0.585) and normal renal function (HR: 1.12 [0.90–1.39], p = 0.312). Conclusions: PCI could have an advantage over CABG in revascularization of LMCA disease in patients with impaired renal function regarding in-hospital MACCE. The follow-up MACCE was comparable between PCI and CABG in patients with impaired and normal renal function.

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.

Abstract Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) is one of the most significant vegetable and spice crop. Wilt caused by Fusarium Sp. has emerged as a serious problem in chilli production. Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region is widely used as a DNA barcoding marker to characterize the diversity and composition of Fusarium communities. ITS regions are heavily used in both molecular methods and ecological studies of fungi, because of its high degree of interspecific variability, conserved primer sites and multiple copy nature in the genome. In the present study we focused on morphological and molecular characterization of pathogen causing chilli wilt. Chilli plants were collected from four districts of Kashmir valley of Himalayan region. Pathogens were isolated from infected root and stem of the plants. Isolated pathogens were subjected to DNA extraction and PCR amplification. The amplified product was sequenced and three different wilt causing fungal isolates were obtained which are reported in the current investigation. In addition to Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium solani, a new fungal species was found in association with the chilli wilt in Kashmir valley viz., Fusarium equiseti that has never been reported before from this region. The studies were confirmed by pathogenicity test and re-confirmation by DNA barcoding.

The study was carried out with different tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) genotypes during 2018 and 2019 at Division of Basic Sciences and Humanities (SKUAST-K), Shalimar, Srinagar (J&K) to assess the plant and fruit growth with quality characters and mineral composition. Healthy and uniform seedlings of twelve tomato genotypes were transplanted in pots with four replications. Among different genotypes, 2016/TODVAR-9 (G8) recorded the highest leaf area (713.6 cm2) and fruit yield (1.77 kg/plant) that also showed maximum values TSS (4.35%), titrable acidity (1.32%), vitamin C (36.18 mg/100g), lycopene (6.84 mg/100g) and carotenoid (8.28 mg/100g) contents coupled with maximum P (0.83%), K (2.35%), Mg (0.52%) and Ca (0.23%) contents. Regression analysis of the data showed a strong correlation between leaf area and fruit yield (r = 0.86**), leaf area and fruit sugar content (r = 0.60*), PLW and fruit Ca content (r = -0.97**), fruit Ca content and storage life (r = 0.97**) and fruit PLW and storage life (r = -0.98**)

Background: The prevalence of congenital anomalies at birth is underestimated in developing countries due to the unavailability of perinatal diagnostic tests or accurate medical records. The prevalence of congenital defects may help to establish a baseline, track changes over time, and uncover etiological clues. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and types of major congenital anomalies in one of the main referral tertiary centers in Baghdad, highlighting the parent and neonatal characteristics and assessing the mortality rate in this group of patients. Patients and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in Baghdad Teaching Hospital during the period between May 2017 and May 2018. Total deliveries were 6553, all live neonates with congenital anomalies were included regardless of their gestational age or birth weight. The patient's hospital notes were reviewed for the patient's characteristics, parentage, maternal chronic disease, and drug history, and other study parameters. The early neonatal outcome was assessed within 7 days of the delivery. Results: The prevalence of congenital malformations was 21.5 per 1000 birth with the highest frequent anomaly affecting the nervous system (41.1%) followed by multiple syndromic malformations (12.8%) and digestive system (11.3%). The mean maternal age was 27.8 (±7.8) ranging from 14-47. The rate of diseased mothers was 18.4%, only half of them were on regular medications. Out of a total of 399 early neonatal death during the study period, death due to congenital malformations constituted 19.8%. Congenitally deformed patients died at a rate of 56%, which was significantly associated with gestational age and neonatal birth weight. Conclusion: The prevalence of congenital abnormalities has increased in the same hospital over the last decade. Mortality rate of these patients is high and associated with gestational age and birth weight. It is critical to test for congenital malformations early in pregnancy, particularly for high-risk parents with advanced age, consanguinity, and history of congenital anomalies.

Zaira Khalid,1 Hasina Momotaz,2 Farren Briggs,3 Kristin A Cassidy,1,2 Naomi S Chaytor,4 Robert T Fraser,5 Mary R Janevic,6 Barbara Jobst,7 Erica K Johnson,8 Peter Scal,9 Tanya M Spruill,10 Betsy K Wilson,2 Martha Sajatovic1,2 1Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center , Cleveland, OH, USA; 2Department of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Neurological and Behavioral Outcomes Center, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA; 3Department of Population Health and Quantitative Science, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; 4Department of Medical Education and Clinical Sciences, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA; 5Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; 6Center for Managing Chronic Disease, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; 7Department of Neurology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, USA; 8Health Promotion Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; 9Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA; 10Department of Population Health, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USACorrespondence: Martha SajatovicPrevention Research Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, 10524 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USATel +1 216 844-2808Fax +1 216 844-2742Email Martha.sajatovic@uhhospitals.orgAim: There are limited data on psychological outcomes in older people with epilepsy (PWE). This analysis, from a large pooled dataset of clinical studies from the Managing Epilepsy Well (MEW) Network, examined clinical variables including depressive symptom severity, quality of life and epilepsy self-management competency among older (age 55+) vs younger (

Rumen bacteria make the greatest contribution to rumen fermentation that enables the host animal to utilize the ingested feeds. Agro-industrial byproducts (AIP) such as olive cake (OC) and date palm byproducts (discarded dates (DD), and date palm fronds (DPF)) represent a practical solution to the deficiency in common feed resources. In this study, thirty-six growing Barki lambs were divided into three groups to evaluate the effect of untraditional diets including the AIP on the growth performance. Subsequently, nine adult Barki rams were used to evaluate the effect of experimental diets on rumen fermentation and rumen bacteria. Three rations were used: common concentrate mixture (S1), common untraditional concentrate mixture including OC and DD (S2), and the same concentrate mixture in S2 supplemented with roughage as DPF enriched with 15% molasses (S3). The animals in S2 group showed higher dry matter intake (DMI) and lower relative growth rate (RGR) as compared to the animals in S1 group. However, the animals in S3 group were the lowest in DMI but achieved RGR by about 87.6% of that in the S1 group. Rumen pH, acetic and butyric acids were more prevalent in animals of S3 group and rumen ammonia (NH3-N), total volatile fatty acids (TVFA), propionic acid were higher in S1. Rumen enzymes activities were higher in S1 group followed by S3 and S2. The bacterial population was more prevalent in S1 and microbial diversity was higher in the S3 group. Principal coordinate analysis revealed clusters associated with diet type and the relative abundance of bacteria varied between sheep groups. The bacterial community was dominated by phylum Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes; whereas, Prevotella, Ruminococcus, and Butyrivibrio were the dominant genera. Results indicate that diet S3 supplemented by OC, DD, and DPF could replace the conventional feed mixture.

Androgen receptor (AR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor that governs the expression of androgen-responsive genes. If somehow AR is retained in the cytoplasm and its shuttling into the nucleus is inhibited it cannot activate the target androgen responsive genes and prevent prostate cancer progression. The primary goal of our study was to evaluate plant based functional food extract from sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) that can target AR nuclear localization in prostate cancer cells and inhibit prostate cancer growth in vitro. Differential extraction using various solvents based on polarity revealed that the end phase aqueous cocktail extracted from leaves of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (SKICDDL-3) can effectively target AR and downregulate androgen responsive genes, PSA, ELL2, EAF2 and CALR significantly in vitro. Colony formation Unit assay and Wound healing assay further shows that SKICDDL-3 can effectively inhibit proliferation and migration of castration resistant C4-2 prostate cancer cells in vitro.

The necessity of decontaminating effluents for the dual purpose of environmental beneficiation and valorization of low-grade resources is driving the development of new sorbents. The functionalization of biopolymers is a promising strategy for improving sorption performance. Incorporating magnetic micro-particles offers an opportunity for the facilitated recovery of spent micron-size sorbent. Combining magnetic facilities and biopolymer functionalization represents a winning strategy. Magnetic glycine-grafted chitosan (G@MChs) was synthesized for the sorption of Ni(II), Zn(II), and Hg(II) before being applied to the removal of hazardous and strategic metals from tailing leachates. The sorbent was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, before and after metal sorption. The acid–base properties of functionalized sorbent were also determined (pHPZC). Uptake kinetics were studied in mono- and multi-component solutions using different equations for kinetic modeling at optimized pH (i.e., pH0: 5.5). Langmuir and Sips equations were applied to model sorption isotherms in single-component solutions. In addition, sorption isotherms in multi-component solutions were used to evaluate the preference for selected metals. Maximum sorption capacities were 0.35 mmol Hg g−1, 0.47 mmol Zn g−1, and 0.50 mmol Ni g−1. Acidified urea solution (pH 2.7) successfully desorbs metal ions from G@MChs (desorption > 90%). The sorbent was tested for the recovery of hazardous and strategic metal ions from acidic leachates of tailings. This study demonstrates the promising performance of G@MChs for the treatment of complex metal-bearing solutions.

Apple scab caused by Venturia inaequalis Cooke (Wint.) is one the important diseases of trade and industrial significance in apple. In present study variability studies in pathogen isolates were studied, which is one of the most important factors for devising management studies of scab disease in apple. Genetic diversity of 30 Venturia inaequalis isolates from 12 districts of two geographical distinct regions of Jammu and Kashmir was calculated based on the allele frequencies of 28 SSR markers and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal DNA. The ITS based characterized sequences were submitted to NCBI GenBank and accession numbers were sanctioned. Dendrogram showed that all the accessions formed 2 main clusters with various degree of sub clustering within the clusters. Analysis based on SSR study reveals that the heterozygosity ranged from 0.0 and 0.5, with an average value of 0.39. The expected heterozygosis or gene diversity (He) ranged from 0.0 to 0.50 with an average of 0.40. The Fst value ranges from 0 to 0.6 with an average of 0.194. Diversity within each population (HS) values ranging from 0.26 to 0.33. Average differentiation among populations (GST) was 0.11 and populations were isolated by significant distance (r 2 = 0.50, P < 0.01). From the AMOVA analysis, 25% of variation was observed among population, 9% among individuals and 66% within individuals observed in the population. Structure analysis grouped isolates into two populations. Principle coordinate analysis explained variation of 36.6% in population 1, 14.30% in population 2 and 13.10% in population 3(Admixture) with 64.07% as overall cumulative percentage of variation. This indicates that extensive short-distance gene flow occurs in Kashmir region that dispersal over longer distances also appears to occur frequently enough to prevent differentiation due to genetic drift. Also it is evident that Jammu and Kashmir most likely has V. inaequalis subpopulations linked to diverse climatic conditions of the Jammu region compared to the mountainous inland Kashmir region. The results of present study would help to understand the genetic diversity of V. inaequalis from Jammu and Kashmir that would lead in the development of more effective management strategies and development of new resistant cultivars through marker-assisted selection.

The development of new materials is needed to address the environmental challenges of wastewater treatment. The phosphorylation of guar gum combined with its association to chitosan allows preparing an efficient sorbent for the removal of U(VI) from slightly acidic solutions. The incorporation of magnetite nanoparticles enhances solid/liquid. Functional groups are characterized by FTIR spectroscopy while textural properties are qualified by N2 adsorption. The optimum pH is close to 4 (deprotonation of amine and phosphonate groups). Uptake kinetics are fast (60 min of contact), fitted by a pseudo-first order rate equation. Maximum sorption capacities are close to 1.28 and 1.16 mmol U g−1 (non-magnetic and magnetic, respectively), while the sorption isotherms are fitted by Langmuir equation. Uranyl desorption (using 0.2 M HCl solutions) is achieved within 20–30 min; the sorbents can be recycled for at least five cycles (5–6% loss in sorption performance, complete desorption). In multi-component solutions, the sorbents show marked preference for U(VI) and Nd(III) over alkali-earth metals and Si(IV). The zone of exclusion method shows that magnetic sorbent has antibacterial effects against both Gram+ and Gram- bacteria, contrary to non-magnetic material (only Gram+ bacteria). The magnetic composite is highly promising as antimicrobial support and for recovery of valuable metals.

With the target of recovering rare earth elements (REEs) from acidic leachates, a new functionalized hydrogel was designed, based on the phosphorylation of algal/polyethyleneimine beads. The functionalization strongly increased the sorption efficiency of the raw material for Pr(III) and Tm(III). Diverse techniques were used for characterizing this new material and correlating the sorption performances and mechanisms to the physicochemical structure of the sorbent. First, the work characterized the sorption properties from synthetic solutions with the usual procedures (study of pH effect, uptake kinetics, sorption isotherms, metal desorption and sorbent recycling, and selectivity from multi-element solutions). Optimum pH was found close to 5; sorption isotherms were fitted by the Langmuir equation (maximum sorption capacities close to 2.14 mmol Pr g−1 and 1.57 mmol Tm g−1). Fast uptake kinetics were modeled by the pseudo-second order rate equation. The sorbent was highly selective for REEs against alkali-earth and base metals. The sorbent was remarkably stable for sorption and desorption operation (using 0.2 M HCl/0.5 M CaCl2 solutions). The sorbent was successfully applied to the leachates of Egyptian ore (pug leaching) after a series of pre-treatments (precipitation steps), sorption, and elution. The selective precipitation of REEs using oxalic acid allows for the recovery of a pure REE precipitate.

Background: Reportedly, left ventricular (LV) mechanics are worsened in patients with mitral stenosis (MS) compared to controls. The immediate effect of balloon mitral valvuloplasty (BMV) on LV mechanics is, however, not known. Aim: To assess the immediate effect of balloon mitral valvuloplasty on the left ventricular twist mechanics. Methods and results: We studied 39 candidates for BMV. Pressures were measured invasively before and after BMV. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) was done for twist mechanics (basal rotation, apical rotation, and torsion) before and immediately after BMV. Twist mechanics were also measured by STE in 15 normal subjects as control group. Mean age was 30.4 ± 7.2 years, mean BMI was 24.7 ± 3.1 and 28 patients (72%) were females. All twist mechanics apical rotation and torsion were lower post-BMV compared to pre-BMV. Left ventricular end diastolic pressure was significantly higher post compared to pre-BMV while left atrial pressure (LAP) was similar between both groups. Importantly, patients who showed an increased LVEDP post compared to pre-BMV had worse LV twist mechanics than those whose LVEDP post-BMV was similar to or lower than pre-BMV. Conclusion: LV twist mechanics are worsened in MS with a further worsening, immediately after BMV probably because of failure of the LV to adapt to the sudden increased preload.

Infectious diseases are the second major cause of death worldwide, and the ability to resist multiple classes of antibiotics is the key factor in enabling pathogenic organisms to survive and spread in the nosocomial environment. Unfortunately, the available β-lactamase inhibitors are not efficient against β-lactamase B, C, and D which necessitates discovering either broad spectrum β-lactamase inhibitors or new β-lactam antibiotics resistant to bacterial enzymes. In this regard, products of natural origin have prompted the disclosure of new compounds and medicinal leads. Chloroform fraction of Clutia myricoides (Soa’bor) showed a pronounced activity against extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) strains. Bio-guided fractionation resulted in isolation of two new compounds; 2-methoxy chrysophanol (2) and Saudin-I (5) in addition to three known compounds that were identified as chrysophanol (1), stigmasterol (3) and β-sitosterol (4). Antibacterial and anti ESBL activities of the isolated compounds were performed. No antibacterial activities were detected for any of the tested compounds. Meanwhile, compound 2 showed promising anti ESBL activity. Compound 2 has shown an obvious activity against K. pneumoniae ATCC 700603 with a marked enlargement of inhibition zones (>5mm) in combination with third generation cephalosporin antibiotics. To further understand the mechanism of action of compound 2, molecular docking was carried out against CTX-M-27 ESBL. The results showed binding site interactions strikingly different from its analogue, compound 1, allowing compound 2 to be active against ESBL. These results proposed the concomitant use of these active compounds with antibiotics that would increase their efficiency. Nevertheless, the interaction between this active compound and antibiotics should be taken into consideration. Therefore, in order to evaluate the safety of this active compound, further in vitro and in vivo toxicity assays must be carried out.

In the course of our continuing efforts to identify bioactive secondary metabolites from Red Sea marine invertebrates, we have investigated the sponge Hemimycale arabica. The antimicrobial fraction of an organic extract of the sponge afforded two new hydantoin alkaloids, hemimycalins A and B (2 and 3), together with the previously reported compound (Z)-5-(4-hydroxybenzylidene)imidazolidine-2,4-dione (1). The structures of the compounds were determined by extensive 1D and 2D NMR (COSY, HSQC and HMBC) studies and high-resolution mass spectral determinations. Hemimycalins A (2) and B (3) represent the first examples of the natural N-alkylated hydantoins from the sponge Hemimycale arabica. Compounds 1–3 displayed variable antimicrobial activities against E. coli, S. aureus, and C. albicans. In addition, compound 1 displayed moderate antiproliferative activity against the human cervical carcinoma (HeLa) cell line. These findings provide further insight into the chemical diversity as well as the biological activity of this class of compounds.

B-friedoolean-5-ene-3-β-ol (1), β-sitosterol (2), stigmasta-5,22,25-trien-3-β-ol (3), betulinic acid (4), and 5-hydroxy-6,7,4′-trimethoxyflavone (5) were isolated from the aerial parts of Clerodendrum inerme L. (Verbenaceae). Their structures were established based on analyses of physical and spectroscopic data. Compounds 1, 4, and 5 were isolated for the first time from the plant. C. inerme L. was known as a rich source of terpenes, sterols, and phenolic compounds, so the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated. The total methanolic extract (TME) and compound 5 showed scavenging activity with maximum inhibition of 61.84% for TME (100 μg/mL) and 37.19% for 5 (20 μM), respectively, using DPPH assay. In addition, the TME exhibited anti-inflammatory activity more than indomethacin at dose 200 mg/kg using the formalin induced hind paw edema method.

Aminoacetylenic isoindoline-1,3-dione derivatives were synthesized from the reaction of potassium phthalimide with propargyl bromide to generate 2-(prop-2-yn-1-yl)isoindoline-1,3-dione (ZM1). Treatment of 2-(prop-2-yn-1-yl)isoindoline-1,3-dione with appropriate cyclic amines through Mannich reaction yielded five desired aminoacetylenic isoindoline-1,3-diones called, ZM2–ZM6. The IR, NMR and elemental analysis were consistent with the assigned structures. These synthetic compounds, except ZM6, produced significant (p ZM5 > ZM4 > ZM2. These percent inhibitions for ZM3 and ZM5 were not significantly different than those of induced by Ibuprofen, Diclofenac and Celecoxib. At 20 mg/kg dose, ZM4 produced a statistically significant reduction of inflammation (p

This paper presents a negative impedance converter (NIC) based on graphene field effect transistors (GFETs) for VHF applications. The NIC is designed following Linvill’s open circuit stable (OCS) topology. The DC modelling parameters of GFET are extracted from a device measured by Meric et al. [IEEE Electron Devices Meeting, 23.2.1 (2010)] Estimated parasitics are also taken into account. Simulation results from Keysight Advanced Design System (ADS) show good NIC performance up to 200 MHz and the value of negative capacitance is directly proportional to the capacitive load. In addition, it has been shown that by varying the supply voltage the value of negative capacitance can also be tuned. The NIC stability has been tested up to 2 GHz (10 times the maximum operation frequency) using Nyquist stability criterion to ensure there are no oscillation issues.

Background: Viral influenza infection causes serious health issues especially when an outbreak occurs. Although influenza virus vaccines are available and each year manufactures modify the vaccine depending on the expected mutated strain, it is still far from satisfactory, mainly in young children and older adults. Therefore, a product that can support and shape the immune system to protect against viral flu infections is highly essential. Methods: A functional food water-soluble mixture of pomegranate, red grape, dates, olive fruit, figs, and ginger extracts, termed herein “Protector”, was prepared and tested in stimulating/modulating the production of specific cytokines, and hemagglutinin inhibition (HAI) antibodies following viral flu vaccination in mice. Results: A single intraperitoneal or multiple oral administration for 1–7 days of “Protector” significantly increased the production of interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-12 in blood, spleen, and lungs of mice. When “Protector” was orally administered for one week following a single vaccine injection (primary immunization) or for two weeks (one week apart) following double vaccine injections (secondary immunization), mice significantly produced higher titers of HAI antibodies. This increase in HAI antibodies was associated with Pillow-inducing significant and different changes in vaccine-induced IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-6 and IL-22 following primary and secondary immunizations. Conclusions: “Protector” administration reinforces the protective immune parameters against viral flu infection. Therefore, after performing preclinical toxicology studies and ensuring its safety, “Protector” should be considered a potential product to be tested in clinical trials to conclude its efficacy in reducing the devastating effects of flu infection in humans and its outbreaks.

In the present paper CdO/Si heterojunction has been prepared by spray pyrolysismethod , electrical characteristics include I-V , C-V , were studied the build-inpotentialequal 1.7 eV and optoelectronic characteristics include I-V illuminationcondition, photovoltaic, responsivity , quantum efficiency were studied . theideality factor to be 2.93 and short circuit photocurrent 170μA, open circuitphotovoltge 120mV at AM1 condition and two peaks responsivity were found ,first peak at region 600±20nm this peak due to absorb of light in CdO throughband-to-band absorption while second region at 800±30nm which due to the Sibandgap.

In the present work , PIN photodetector has been fabricated by vacuum evaporationtechnique, Al was evaporated on top side of an intrinsic – type silicon and In was evaporatedon down side and doped for each sides of an intrinsic silicon with thermal diffusion techniqueusing a furnace system, in this method PIN photodetector is made.The optoelectronic and electrical properties of photodetector were studied ,PIN hasspectral responsivity in visible and near infrared region and has peak responsivity atwavelength 900nm ,I-V characteristic under dark condition the ideality factor is 3.2 and builtin-potential was determined by extrapolation of the curve (1/C3) to a point 1/C3=0 equal 0.8v.a high speed response for the photodetector was determined , it is equal less than 2.35nS.

Highly (101)-oriented p-Ag2O thin film with high electrical resistivily was grown bythermal oxidation (TO) on clean monocrystalline p-type Si without any post- depositionannealing. From optical transmittance and absorptance data, the direct optical band gapwas found to be 1.4eV. The electrical and photovoltaic properties of Ag2O/Si isotopeheterojunction were examined in the absence of any buffer layer. Ideality factor ofheterojunction was found to be 3.9. Photoresponse result revealed that there are two peakslocated at. 750 nm and 900nm .

In the present work , schottky photodiode have been mode on n-type SiCby depositing of thin layer of In . electrical characteristics included I-V(dark and illumination ) have been investigated . Ideality factor is 1.6 andbarrier height is 0.53 eV was calculated from I-V and Isc-Voccharacteristics, Ideality factor is 1.7 and barrier height found to be 0.64 eV,and from optoelectronic characteristics have found sensitivity results showthat peak response of photodiode was 550nm .

In this work, thermal evaporation system was employed to deposit thin films of SiC onglass substrates in order to determine the parameters of them. Measurements includedtransmission, absorption, Seebak effect, resistivity and conductivity, absorption coefficient,type of energy band-gap, extinction coefficient as functions of photon energy and the effectof increasing film thickness on transmittance. Results explained that SiC thin film is an ntypesemiconductor of indirect energy and-gap of ~3eV,cut-off wavelength of 448 nm,absorption coefficient of 3.4395x104cm-1 and extinction coefficient of 0.154. Theexperimental measured values are in good agreement with the typical values of SiC thinfilms prepared by other advanced deposition techniques.

Conductive transparent In2O3 thin films with (222) preferred orientation wereprepared by thermal oxidation (TO) in static air of indium thin films at condition(250°C/25 min). Detailed structural, electrical, and optical characteristics of thefilm are presented. The data are interpreted to give a direct band gap of(3.6) eV and indirect band gap of (2.5) eV. The In2O3 film has sheet resistance aslow as (20)Ω/□ . in absence of any post-deposition annealing conditions. Themobility of these films was estimated to be (31) cm2. V-1. s-1.

The optical response characteristics of Se/Sb thin film heterojunction deposited ona p-type silicon substrate were studied. Results indicated that the obtained isotypeheterojunction is linearly graded and has 0.8V built-in potential. Also, the maximumspectral responsivity and maximum quantum efficiency were obtained at the region of (600-650) nm and the detectivity was about 7.77x1010 cm.Hz 1/2.W-1. Response time of themanufactured detector was about 225ns. This work is a good attempt to manufacture theheterojunction detector from V and VI elements.