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Abstract Intraplate volcanism has occurred for the last 35 million years within Northeast Atlantic and Arctic margins, including the western Barents Sea, Svalbard, and northern Greenland. Earlier studies have suggested that some of this volcanism might be sourced from nearby mid-ocean ridges. However, legacy data does not reveal correlations between the sporadic volcanism, despite comparable setting, ages, and compositions of basalts across the area. Here, we utilize a compilation of geophysical data to document late Cenozoic intraplate volcanism affecting the northeastern Yermak Plateau and southwestern Eurasia Basin located north of Svalbard. The identified seabed and subsurface features include volcanic (Mound-A) and hydrothermal vent systems (Tayrona Vent) formed approximately 10 and 2.6 million years ago, respectively. These intraplate volcanic products are coincident in age and origin with observed hydrothermal systems on Svalbard and Northeast Atlantic. We propose that these magmatic features are the result of intraplate volcanism associated with seismic and thermal anomalies in the mantle beneath northern Svalbard.

Aiming on targeting cephalostatin 1, a potentially active anti-tumor marine natural product structured as a bis-steroidal pyrazine BSP, significant efforts invested to synthesize a closed structure. Herein, the effect of introducing α-configurated methoxy group at C-11 on the chemistry of symmetrical BSP system is under focus. The significance of directing various reagents either to the methoxy half or to the methoxy-free half of this complicated BSP is highlighted. Several nucleophilic additions as sodium borohydride reduction, carbonyl oximation, nucleophilic addition of hydrazine derivatives and the reaction with Wittig-ylid were directed specifically to the methoxy-free half. However, F-ring opening process as well as hydroboration of ring-D double bond was directed selectively toward the methoxy half. In both cases, these processes led to a chemoselective/specific product. Moreover, the development of a mild demethoxylation reaction to remove the methoxy group, whenever wanted, gives us more ability and flexibility in controlling successive reactions and hence to play in any part of the playground. Both methoxylation and demethoxylation of C-11 are novel approaches applied in the cephalostatin research area. Thus, building up of a multi-step synthetic strategy to achieve the targeted molecule is now more possible.

Two-dimensional (2D) layered materials have received much attention due to the unique properties stemming from their van der Waals (vdW) interactions, quantum confinement, and many-body interactions of quasi-particles, which drive their exotic optical and electronic properties, making them critical in many applications. Here, we review our past years’ findings, focusing on many-body interactions in 2D layered materials, including phonon anharmonicity, electron–phonon coupling (e-ph), exciton dynamics, and phonon anisotropy based on temperature (polarization)-dependent Raman spectroscopy and Photoluminescence (PL). Our review sheds light on the role of quasi-particles in tuning the material properties, which could help optimize 2D materials for future applications in electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Background: Cisplatin is a potent agent commonly used to treat cancer, but its effects pose a significant risk to renal function. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the impact of cisplatin on renal function as measured by glomerular filtration rate (GFR) using diethyltriamine-penta-acetic acid (DTPA) renal scintigraphy. Methods: Extensive literature searches were performed using PRISMA guidelines that investigated cisplatin-induced renal failure by measuring GFR with DTPA. Eligible studies were included based on predefined criteria. Data on GFR, serum creatinine levels, and acute kidney injury (AKI) before and after cisplatin therapy were extracted and analyzed. A meta-analysis was performed utilizing RevMan 5.4 to determine the overall effect of cisplatin on GFR before and after treatment. For non-randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale, while for RCT, the Cochrane risk of bias tool was utilized. Results: Initially, 1003 studies were searched from different databases, including ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and The Cochrane Library, and after screening, 8 studies (PubMed, Scopus, and GoogleS cholar) with 489 patients were found eligible for inclusion in the present study. Cisplatin was administrated with varying doses ranging from 20 mg/m2 to 114.02 mg/m2. The findings underscore the nephrotoxic effects of cisplatin, a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, as demonstrated by the significant decline in GFR observed across multiple treatment cycles, and these findings were also supported by the findings of a meta-analysis that showed a significant (p < 0.01) difference between peri- and post-treatment GFR level with 37.06 (95% CI, 10.90–63.23) effect size and 96% heterogeneity. In addition, the included studies were found to be of high quality. Conclusions: Cisplatin significantly affects renal function, as evidenced by a decrease in GFR measured with DTPA. The findings underscore the importance of the routine monitoring of GFR to detect early renal injury and guide treatment modification. Future research should focus on strategies to reduce cisplatin-induced toxicity and explore alternative therapies with reduced renal risk.

Background: Early cancer detection is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Molecular imaging biomarkers offer the potential for non-invasive, early-stage cancer diagnosis. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of molecular imaging biomarkers for early cancer detection across various imaging modalities and cancer types. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Scopus was performed, covering the period from January 2010 to December 2023. Eligibility criteria included original research articles published in English on molecular imaging biomarkers for early cancer detection in humans. The risk of bias for included studies was evaluated using the QUADAS-2 tool. The findings were synthesized through narrative synthesis, with quantitative analysis conducted where applicable. Results: In total, 50 studies were included. Positron emission tomography (PET)-based biomarkers showed the highest sensitivity (mean: 89.5%, range: 82–96%) and specificity (mean: 91.2%, range: 85–100%). Novel tracers such as [68Ga]-PSMA for prostate cancer and [18F]-FES for breast cancer demonstrated promising outcomes. Optical imaging techniques showed high specificity in intraoperative settings. Conclusions: Molecular imaging biomarkers show significant potential for improving early cancer detection. Integration into clinical practice could lead to earlier interventions and improved outcomes. Further research is needed to address standardization and cost-effectiveness.

Blue mold disease, caused by Penicillium italicum (P. italicum), presents a significant challenge to orange fruits (Citrus sinensis L.) and other citrus crops globally. Biological control, particularly Trichoderma species, offers a promising alternative to synthetic fungicides. Therefore, this study aimed to isolate, identify, and evaluate the antagonistic activities of two Trichoderma isolates against P. italicum. These isolates were molecularly identified and assigned accession numbers PP002254 and PP002272, respectively. Both isolates demonstrated significant antifungal activity in dual culture assays. Moreover, the culture filtrates (CFs) of Trichoderma longibrachiatum PP002254 and Trichoderma harzianum PP002272 suppressed the mycelial growth of P. italicum by 77.22% and 71.66%, respectively. Additionally, CFs reduced the severity of blue mold on orange fruits by 26.85% and 53.81%, compared to 100% in the control group. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that treated P. italicum hyphae were shrunken and disfigured. Enzyme activities (catalase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase) in treated oranges increased, along with total soluble phenolics and flavonoids. Conversely, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels decreased in treated fruits. These findings suggest that T. longibrachiatum PP002254 and T. harzianum PP002272 could be effective biocontrol agents for managing blue mold and other citrus postharvest diseases.

Introduction There is a paucity of studies on e-cigarette use among adults with chronic lung disease. In the present study, we aimed to assess whether psychosocial or cognitive factors elucidate the relationship between chronic lung disease (CLD) and susceptibility to e-cigarette use and whether the relationship between CLD and e-cigarette use is conditional on the presence of respiratory symptoms. Methods We recruited adults aged ≥18 years in Alabama with CLD from university medical clinics (n=140) and individuals without CLD (n=123 as a reference group). Information on sociodemographics, susceptibility to e-cigarette use, psychosocial factors, and cognitive factors were collected. Mediation analysis was used to assess whether the psychosocial factors or cognitive factors explained the association between CLD and susceptibility to using e-cigarettes, and moderation analysis was conducted to determine if respiratory factors would change the association between CLD and susceptibility to e-cigarette use. Results Psychosocial factors (stress, depression, anxiety) and e-cigarette positive expectancy were notably high among individuals with CLD. Having CLD was associated with a lower likelihood of susceptibility to e-cigarette use. Higher levels of stress, being a smoker, boredom, taste/sensorimotor manipulation, and social facilitation were associated with higher odds of susceptibility to using e-cigarettes among individuals with CLD. Mediation analysis indicated a statistically significant indirect effect of CLD on the susceptibility to using e-cigarettes through stress and boredom reduction. We did not find a statistically significant interaction between CLD and respiratory symptoms affecting susceptibility to using e-cigarettes. Conclusions Individuals with CLD often exhibit stress, depression, and a positive view of e-cigarettes but are generally less inclined to use them. Stress, smoking habits, boredom, taste, and social influence can increase their susceptibility to e-cigarette use. Our findings call for further exploration to evaluate the temporal relationship between CLD status, psychosocial factors, cognitive factors, and susceptibility to using e-cigarettes. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, on 5 November 2019. Identifier: NCT04151784

Abstract Microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a bio-electrical energy generator that uses respiring microbes to transform organic matter present in sludge into electrical energy. The primary goal of this work was to introduce a new approach to the green electricity generation technology. In this context a total of 6 bacterial isolates were recovered from sludge samples collected from El-Sheikh Zayed water purification plant, Egypt, and screened for their electrogenic potential. The most promising isolates were identified according to 16S rRNA sequencing as Escherichia coli and Enterobacter cloacae, promising results were achieved on using them in consortium at optimized values of pH (7.5), temperature (30°C) and substrate (glucose/pyruvate 1%). Low level red laser (λ = 632.8nm, 8mW) was utilized to promote the electrogenic efficiency of the bacterial consortium, maximum growth was attained at 210 sec exposure interval. In an application of adding standard inoculum (107 cfu/mL) of the photo-stimulated bacterial consortium to sludge based MFC a significant increase in the output potential difference values were recorded, the electricity generation was maintained by regular supply of external substrate. These results demonstrate the future development of the dual role of MFCs in renewable energy production and sludge recycling.

IntroductionPilonidal sinus (PNS) is a small hole or “tunnel” in the skin that frequently occurs in the sacrococcygeal region. Nevertheless, PNS has been reported to occur between the fingers (interdigital) in barbers, hairdressers, and animal groomers. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of interdigital PNS among animal handlers in Bahrain and to treat any patients encountered.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study with convenience sampling from November 2020 to October 2021. The study participants were animal handlers from stables, veterinary, and pet shops in Bahrain. There were 43 males and 7 females with direct animal contact. 86% of the study population were handling horses, and 15% were handling different types of animals.ResultsNo positive cases of interdigital PNS among participants were found, this might reflect the positive impact of good personal hygiene among our study population. Our study shows that groomers in Bahrain frequently wash their hands after handling animals, and 98% have a daily habit of bathing after work. It was also estimated that 60% of the participants use gloves to handle animals themselves or their waste.DiscussionThis could be the first study looking at the prevalence of interdigital PNS in animal groomers worldwide. The absence of any case report of interdigital PNS among animal groomers in the recent literature strengthens our assumption that the association between interdigital PNS and hair grooming could be a narrative coincidence rather than a true occupational hazard. The present work may help in better understanding of occupation-disease association, and highlights the importance of mass screening of animal handlers for occupation-dependent health problems.

Abstract Unravelling past, large-scale ocean circulation patterns is crucial for deciphering the long-term global paleoclimate. Here we apply numerical modelling to reconstruct the detailed paleobathymetry-topography of the southwestern inlet of the Barents Seaway that presently connects the Atlantic and Arctic oceans. Subaerial topography was likely enough to block Atlantic Water from entering the Barents Seaway in the earliest Eocene (c. 55 Ma). The water may have entered in the middle Eocene (c. 47 Ma) as observed from major basin subsidence, but paleotopographic highs to the east may have hindered connections between the two oceans. From the Oligocene (c. 33 Ma) until the onset of the Quaternary (c. 2.7 Ma), basin shallowing and regional shelf uplift blocked Atlantic Water from entering the Barents Seaway. Our results imply that the Fram Strait remained the sole gateway for Atlantic Water into the Arctic Ocean since its opening in the Miocene until the Quaternary.

Introducing a hybrid imaging approach, such as single-photon emission computerized tomography with X-ray computed tomography (SPECT)/CT, improves diagnostic accuracy and patient management. The ongoing advancement of SPECT hardware and software has resulted in the clinical application of novel approaches. For example, whole-body SPECT/CT (WB-SPECT/CT) studies cover multiple consecutive bed positions, similar to positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT). WB-SPECT/CT proves to be a helpful tool for evaluating bone metastases (BM), reducing equivocal findings, and enhancing user confidence, displaying effective performance in contrast to planar bone scintigraphy (PBS). Consequently, it is increasingly utilized and might substitute PBS, which leads to new questions and issues concerning the acquisition protocol, patient imaging time, and workflow process. Therefore, this review highlights various aspects of WB-SPECT/CT acquisition protocols that need to be considered to help understand WB-SPECT/CT workflow processes and optimize imaging protocols.

Background: The practice of dispensing drugs in primary healthcare centers has shifted to community pharmacies in Saudi Arabia. These changes increase demand and mandate improving their services; one such is establishing pharmacy drive-thru services. To explore the effects of drive-thru services on the pharmacy profession, this study aimed to measure community pharmacists' acceptance, perception, and satisfaction regarding drive-thru services. Methods: This cross-sectional study design was conducted in Saudi Arabia between January 2023 and May 2023—comparing the perception, acceptance, and satisfaction of pharmacists who work in a community pharmacy that provides a drive-thru service versus no drive-thru service. Community pharmacists were invited to complete an online questionnaire consisting of four sections developed from previous studies with some modifications. Descriptive statistical analysis and an independent t-test were utilized to test the difference between the two groups (providing drive-thru service vs. non) in their responses. Results: This study included 380 community pharmacists, of whom 33 % provided drive-thru services and 67 % did not. Pharmacists' perceptions of drive-thru services differed significantly. Those with drive-thru services perceived lower convenience for delivering drug information and patient counseling, and they were concerned about the potential impact on their health effects (M = 3.15, SD = 1.34) compared to those without (M = 3.58, SD = 1.10), t (378) = -3.32, p

Background: Community pharmacists were underutilized in Saudi Arabia. At the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, global healthcare systems experienced significant pressure. To combat the pandemic effectively, there was a need to involve other healthcare providers, such as community pharmacists. As a result, community pharmacists were enlisted to provide vaccines. Objectives: This study aims to explore community pharmacists' perceptions about providing COVID-19 vaccines in Saudi community settings. Methods: Ethical approval was granted by the Research Ethics Committee of King Faisal University in January 2022. A qualitative methodology was used to explore the opinions of community pharmacists. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via face-to-face qualitative interviewing. Participants were recruited purposively and represented different types of community pharmacy settings. Results: A total of 15 face-to-face individual interviews were conducted. The cohort included pharmacists who provided the service (n = 5) and those who did not (n = 10). The results showed that providing the service in a community setting was advantageous to patients, community pharmacy sector, and healthcare system. Moreover, the participants identified several barriers to providing the service. Conclusion: Although providing the service had several advantages to several parties, the identified barriers need to be considered for the service to be provided appropriately.

Abstract Objectives The primary aim is to compare the effects of backward walking exercise to forward walking exercise on knee pain, knee functions, and thigh muscle strength in individuals with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis using lower body positive pressure, in addition to mobility functions, balance, and self-reported health status. Methods The study is a single blind randomized clinical trial with two independent groups. This study will enroll 26 participants with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. The participants will be randomized into either experimental group (backward walking exercise) or control group (forward walking exercise). Both groups will use lower body positive pressure treadmill for walking exercise. Both groups will perform regular conventional exercise and worm-up exercise before walking exercise. The treatment will be three times a week for six weeks. Walking session will be up to 30 min each session. Data collection will be collected during pre- and post- intervention including primary outcomes including numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS), and thigh muscle strength test. The secondary outcomes include five times sit to stand test (FTSTS), 3-meter backward walk test (3MBWT), timed up and go test (TUG), four square step test (FSST), functional reach test (FRT), 10-meter walk test (10-MWT), six minute walk test (6MWT), medical outcomes study short form 12 (SF-12), patient health questionnaire -9 (PHQ-9), and rapid assessment of physical activity (RAPA). An independent t-test will be used to evaluate the effect of treatment on the outcome measures. Results Not applicable. Conclusion Using lower body positive pressure may have promising results against knee osteoarthritis. Moreover, walking backward exercise using lower body positive pressure might add more benefits to individuals with knee osteoarthritis and help clinicians in decision making. Trial registration: This study was registered in ClinicalTrails.gov (ID: NCT05585099).

BackgroundNonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) has become a significant public health concern, affecting approximately one-fourth of the population. Despite its prevalence, no FDA-approved drug treatments specifically target NAFLD.AimTo provide a review of clinical trials investigating the use of herbal remedies and dietary supplements in NAFLD management, utilizing the ClinicalTrials.gov database.MethodsThis review evaluates the current evidence by examining completed phase III and IV clinical trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. An exhaustive search was performed on April 17, 2023, using the terms “Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease” and “NAFLD.” Two independent reviewers appraised eligible trials based on pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria.ResultsAn initial search yielded 1,226 clinical trials, with 12 meeting the inclusion criteria after filtration. The majority of trials focused on Omega-3 fatty acids (20.0%) and vitamin D (26.7%), followed by caffeine, chlorogenic acid, ginger, phosphatidylcholine, Trigonella Foenum-graecum seed extract, vitamin C, and vitamin E (each 6.7%). Most studies were Phase 3 (75.0%) and used a parallel assignment model (91.7%). Quadruple masking was the most prevalent technique (58.3%), and Iran was the leading country in terms of trial locations (25.0%). These interventions constitute two herbal interventions and nine supplement interventions.ConclusionThis reveals a diverse range of nutraceuticals, with Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D being predominant in the management of NAFLD. The global distribution of trials highlights the widespread interest in these therapeutics. However, more rigorous, large-scale trials are needed to establish safety, efficacy, and optimal dosages.

Nano-composites ceramic of (Al2O3/BaTiO3) were successfully fabricated by Sol. Gel. technique with a weight ratio of Al2O3: BaTiO3, 1:100 wt%, respectively. X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Infrared (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy have been used to characterize the fabricated samples. Experimental data revealed that adding of Al2O3 changed both the structure and particle size of BaTiO3 from tetragonal with 7–9 μm to orthorhombic with 400–600 nm for Al2O3/BaTiO3. Moreover, SEM shows uniform grains distribution with nano-sized particles. Raman spectra shows a peak at 900 nm for BaTiO3 and split for Al2O3/BaTiO3. The FT-IR recorded several peaks related to Al2O3/BaTiO3 at low wavenumber

AIM: To investigate the effect of preoperative factors on visual acuity, higher-order aberrations (HOAs), and index of success for spherical change (S.IOS) after transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (t-PRK) for treating different grades of myopia. METHODS: This was a retrospective one-armed cohort study where patients with high, moderate, or mild myopia treated with single-step t-PRK using Amaris 500 Hz excimer laser were evaluated for visual acuity, refractive status, corneal topography, HOAs, S.IOS, and mean efficiency and safety index before and 6mo after surgery. RESULTS: A total of 154 eyes of 77 patients with mild (n=59), moderate (n=83), and high (n=12) myopia were reviewed. The efficiency and safety indices for vision recovery by single-step t-PRK were 98% and 100%, respectively. The achieved spherical equivalent (SE) was within 1 diopter (D) in 151 (98%) eyes. The median of the S.IOS was 1.18 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.0, 1.4]. The change in S.IOS was significantly correlated with age (P=0.007), 6.5 mm ablation zone (Mann-Whitney U test, P

Exosomes are tiny vesicles released by cells that carry communications to local and distant locations. Emerging research has revealed the role played by integrins found on the surface of exosomes in delivering information once they reach their destination. But until now, little has been known on the initial upstream steps of the migration process. Using biochemical and imaging approaches, we show here that exosomes isolated from both leukemic and healthy hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells can navigate their way from the cell of origin due to the presence of sialyl Lewis X modifications surface glycoproteins. This, in turn, allows binding to E-selectin at distant sites so the exosomes can deliver their messages. We show that when leukemic exosomes were injected into NSG mice, they traveled to the spleen and spine, sites typical of leukemic cell engraftment. This process, however, was inhibited in mice pre-treated with blocking E-selectin antibodies. Significantly, our proteomic analysis found that among the proteins contained within exosomes are signaling proteins, suggesting that exosomes are trying to deliver active cues to recipient cells that potentially alter their physiology. Intriguingly, the work outlined here also suggests that protein cargo can dynamically change upon exosome binding to receptors such as E-selectin, which thereby could alter the impact it has to regulate the physiology of the recipient cells. Furthermore, as an example of how miRNAs contained in exosomes can influence RNA expression in recipient cells, our analysis showed that miRNAs found in KG1a-derived exosomes target tumor suppressing proteins such as PTEN.

Atomically thin layered transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), such as MoS2 and WS2, have been getting much attention recently due to their interesting electronic and optoelectronic properties. Especially, spiral TMDs provide a variety of candidates for examining the light-matter interaction resulting from the broken inversion symmetry, as well as the potential new utilization in functional optoelectronic, electromagnetic and nanoelectronics devices. To realize their potential device applications, it is desirable to achieve controlled growth of these layered nanomaterials with a tunable stacking. Here, we demonstrate the Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) growth of spiral pyramid-shaped WS2 with ∼200 μm in size and the interesting optical properties via AFM and Raman spectroscopy. By controlling the precursors concentration and changing the initial nucleation rates in PVD growth, WS2 in different nanoarchitectures can be obtained. We discuss the growth mechanism for these spiral-patterned WS2 nanostructures based on the screw dislocations. This study provides a simple, scalable approach of screw dislocation-driven (SDD) growth of distinct TMD nanostructures with varying morphologies, and stacking.

Wood vinegar (WV) by-product of charcoal production is considered one of the most promising alternatives to synthetic pesticide and fertilizer applications, especially for organic production. Our goal in this study is to evaluate the efficacy of guava (Psidium guajava) WV to control Colletotrichum coccodes, which causes black dot disease, and how it influences potato plant development and yield. This study tested the efficacy of guava WV against the pathogen both in vitro and under greenhouse conditions. Different guava WV concentrations were tested on pathogen growth development, including 0, 0.25%, 0.50%, 1%, 2%, and 3% (v/v). Data revealed that the pathogen’s mycelial growth was significantly inhibited at all the concentrations, and the highest inhibition (100%) was obtained at 3% guava WV. In greenhouse trials conducted for two seasons (2021 and 2022), guava WV applied as a foliar spray at the concentration of 2% and 3% considerably reduced the potato black dot severity evaluated as stem colonization (average of 22.9% for 2021, average of 22.5% for 2022), root covering with sclerotia (average of 21.7% for 2021, average of 18.3% for 2022) and wilted plants percentage (average of 27.8% for 2021, average of 33.3% for 2022). Overall, guava WV also showed a positive effect on plant growth by increasing plant height, stem diameter, and tuber yield per plant of treated potato in both seasons. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses revealed the presence in guava WV of phenols, esters, organic acids, antioxidants, and alcohols. In conclusion, guava WV could represent a viable alternative for potato black dot disease management and for plant growth promotion.

Distillation is the most widely used separation technique in the process industry. Its main disadvantage is the high consumption of thermal energy: the heat requirements of the distillation columns often represent most part of the total energy cost of the plant, appropriate integration of the distillation columns with the overall process often results in a significant reduction of the energy consumption in many cases. In this work the concept of the integration has been applied by two integrated design approaches:Heat-integrated design; where the distillation system of the process will be heat-integrated with the background process (i.e. integration between the distillation columns and the heat exchangers). Reactive distillation design; where the reaction and distillation will be accomplished in the same unit. The process of dimethyl ether (DME) synthesis by the catalytic dehydration of methanol has been considered as a case study. Heat-integrated design of DME process showed a significant total annual cost saving of 41 % compared to the conventional process, and the reactive DME distillation column design showed highest saving in total annual cost (TAC) by 81 %. In addition to the cost saving of the two proposed designs, also the flue gas emissions have been reduced using process integration methodology, where 51 % of the total emissions has been reduced by the heat-integrated design and 86 % by the reactive distillation column design.

Keratoconus and iatrogenic keratectasia are the corneal ectatic disorders occurring due to biomechanical weakening of the cornea resulting in distorted images, myopia, and irregular astigmatism. Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) is performed to arrest keratoconus successfully. The main aim of this review is to discuss the safety and efficacy of the adjuvant therapies, such as the combination of CXL and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) for the treatment of corneal ectatic disorders. A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Scopus using keywords ‘collagen’ ‘keratoconus’, ‘keratectasia’, ‘collagen cross-linking’, and ‘photorefractive keratectomy’. Search results were restricted to clinical studies published in English. Corneal CXL effectively arrests the progression of keratoconus by enhancing corneal rigidity. However, functional vision is not improved by cross-linking. Combining CXL to refractive surgeries such as topography-guided PRK or transepithelial PRK is found to be a safe and effective method in providing corneal stability as well as significantly improving functional visual acuity with few minor complications. This combined technique also prevents regression of keratoconus and reduce the risk of keratectasia. CXL combined with PRK is a promising therapeutic approach in ophthalmology that can be successfully used to treat progressive keratoconus and other corneal ectatic disorders and to enhance visual acuity.

The treatment of an aqueous acetonitrile solution of chloroplatinic acid hydrate H2PtCl6.xH2O and pyridine-2-carbaldehyde-oxime (paOH) in the presence of potassium thiocyanate at room temperature (25°) led to the formation of a new Pt(IV) complex with the formula [Pt(SCN)2(paO)2], (1). Complex 1 was fully characterized by FT-IR, UV-vis and NMR spectroscopic techniques as well as elemental analysis. The crystallographic structure of complex 1 was obtained by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The structure of complex 1 consists of a distorted octahedral geometrical environment around the platinum center in which the coordination sites are occupied by two terminal thiocyanate ligands in trans arrangement and two bidentate paO ligands through four nitrogen atoms. In addition, the in vitro evaluation of the cytotoxicity of platinum complex 1 against four different cancer cell lines was performed. The IC50 values for colon (HCT116), liver (HepG2), breast (MCF-7) and erythroid (JK-1) treated with complex 1 are 19 ± 6, 21 ± 5, 22 ± 6, and 13 ± 3 μM, respectively. In HCT116 cells treated with the IC50 dose of our title compound, apoptosis and necrosis were increased by 34% and 27.8%, respectively. Cells halted in the proliferative phase (S phase) to 21.7 % and 29.8% in HCT116 and HepG2 cells treated with complex 1 have anti-proliferative actions. Furthermore, the catalytic activity of synthesized complex 1 was examined in the oxidation reaction of benzyl alcohols in the presence of an oxidant. Finally, the luminescence behavior of complex 1 was investigated.

The role of the community pharmacist has evolved to include the provision of more clinical services for patients. Those people who have stable chronic conditions will be managed in community pharmacies. This qualitative study used semi-structured in-depth interviews to understand the potential of providing additional patient-centred care for patients with stable chronic conditions in community pharmacies and identify potential limitations of this approach. Participants were recruited from Welsh Government, Local Health Boards (LHBS), Community Pharmacy Wales (CPW) and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Wales (RPSW). The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically. Eight interviews were conducted. The identified themes were as follows: (1) inconsistency and bureaucracy in commissioning pharmacy services; (2) availability of funding and resources; (3) disagreement and uncertainty about the contribution of the community pharmacy sector; (4) continuity of patient medical information and fragmented care; (5) accessibility, capacity and facilities in community pharmacy; (6) pharmacy education and clinical expertise, and (7) patient acceptability. It was clear that the potential benefit of managing stable chronic diseases in community pharmacies was recognised; however, several limitations expressed by stakeholders of pharmacy services need to be considered prior to moving forward.

Abstract The impact of six local isolates of Penicillium frequentans recovered from healthy sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) leaves was evaluated against Cercospora beticola, the causal pathogen of Cercospora sugar beet leaf spot under laboratory and field conditions. In in vitro studies, all the six isolates were able to inhibit the mycelial growth of C. beticola with variation in their antagonistic capability. P. frequentans isolates produce pectinase and cellulase at different degrees. There was a correlation between enzyme activity and the antagonistic ability for each isolate. The high antagonistic ability isolates had the most enzyme activity. In field studies, some adhesives such as agar, starch flour, white glue, gum, and commercial adhesive (Triton Mok) were added to conidia spore suspensions of P. frequentans at 1% to improve conidial adhesion to sugar beet plant surface. Data also showed that all adhesives increased (P = 0.05) the efficiency of the spore suspension of P. frequentans to control the disease. The starch flour at 1% gave a significant reduction in disease severity from 43.23 to 10.42% pre-infection and from 43.23 to 10.52% post-infection. The application of P. frequentans led to improved root yield and the sugar percent of sugar beet crop in two tested seasons.

Soft tissue chondroma is an uncommon soft-tissue cartilaginous tumor of benign nature, it considers a variant of extra-skeletal chondromas that undergoes extensive ossification. This case of a 37 years old Egyptian male presented with a recurrent slowly growing painful palpable heel mass arises at the plantar aspect of his RT foot.The case is pathologically proven to be benign soft tissue chondroma. Keyword: Soft tissue chondroma

BACKGROUND: Assessment of growth using Z-score methods is important for clinical care and research, yet growth reference Z-score data for preschool Saudi children are not available. OBJECTIVE: Establish Z-score tables and corresponding growth charts. DESIGN: Uses data from a national survey in 2004–2005. SETTING: Community-based random sample of preschool Saudi children. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Raw data from the previous nationally representative sample were analyzed using the L, M, and S statistical methods to calculate Z-scores of growth. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Z-scores reference values for weight, length/height, head circumference, weight for length/height, and body mass index for age for boys and girls from birth to 60 months of age. RESULTS: For 15 601 Saudi children (7896, 50.6 % boys) Z-score tables and graphs from birth to 60 months of age were derived for boys and girls. The tables and graphs include weight for age, length/height for age, head circumference for age, weight for length/height, and BMI for age. CONCLUSION: Z-score reference data on the growth of preschool Saudi infants and children is essential for healthcare and research. LIMITATION: Does not include regional variations.

Primary school students with both giftedness and learning disabilities (SGLD) in inclusive educational settings may not always receive a differentiated curriculum. Differentiation in all-level classrooms is necessary for consistently meeting the needs of SGLD. There is insufficient research on teachers' knowledge of SGLD and differentiation in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. To fill this knowledge gap, we interviewed 9 primary school teachers in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. The interview data were analysed using content analysis. Our conceptual framework is based on the theories of Howard Gardner, who believe that all students learn in different ways. We also considered Lev Vygotsky's view that students learn best with instructions that meet their individual developmental level and address their zone of proximal development. Our findings suggest that teachers are willing to teach SGLD along with other students in the same classroom. Although they understand that differentiation is important, they were not implementing it for SGLD. Professional training and development related to teaching SGLD can improve the educational outcomes for SGLD. These results can assist teachers and educational personnel to seek optimal methods to identify and assist SGLD in Saudi Arabia and other regions. Finally, we provide recommendations for accommodations, strategies, and a differentiated curriculum for SGLD in primary schools.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of multislice CT (MSCT) and magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) in evaluation of potential donors in living related liver transplantation. Patients and methods: Twenty-five potential donors included in our study. All potential donors underwent 1st step medical examination and laboratory investigations to enter the 2nd step investigations with MSCT for calculation of the hepatic parenchymal CT density, reconstruction of hepatic vascular anatomy and CT volumetry. Magnetic Resonance cholangiography (MRC) and intra-operative cholangiography (IOC) were done on only 23 patients for biliary tree assessment. Results: Of the 25 patients evaluated by MSCT, 23 patients (92%) were accepted. Two patients (8%) were excluded from surgery because of anatomical criteria, regarding portal vein variants based on CT findings. One showed right anterior portal vein arising from left portal vein and the other showed trifurcation of the main portal vein. Conclusion: Multislice CT is a valuable tool in the evaluation of potential living liver donors that provides complete information on the hepatic vascular anatomy, the liver parenchyma, and volumetric measurements. MRC with a 3.0-T MR system demonstrates the preoperative biliary evaluation very well with a high accuracy rate.

This study proposes using object detection techniques to recognize sequences of articulatory features (AFs) from speech utterances by treating AFs of phonemes as multi-label objects in speech spectrogram. The proposed system, called AFD-Obj, recognizes sequence of multi-label AFs in speech signal and localizes them. AFD-Obj consists of two main stages: firstly, we formulate the problem of AFs detection as an object detection problem and prepare the data to fulfill requirement of object detectors by generating a spectral three-channel image from the speech signal and creating the corresponding annotation for each utterance. Secondly, we use annotated images to train the proposed system to detect sequences of AFs and their boundaries. We test the system by feeding spectrogram images to the system, which will recognize and localize multi-label AFs. We investigated using these AFs to detect the utterance phonemes. YOLOv3-tiny detector is selected because of its real-time property and its support for multi-label detection. We test our AFD-Obj system on Arabic and English languages using KAPD and TIMIT corpora, respectively. Additionally, we propose using YOLOv3-tiny as an Arabic phoneme detection system (i.e., PD-Obj) to recognize and localize a sequence of Arabic phonemes from whole speech utterances. The proposed AFD-Obj and PD-Obj systems achieve excellent results for Arabic corpus and comparable to the state-of-the-art method for English corpus. Moreover, we showed that using only one-scale detection is suitable for AFs detection or phoneme recognition.

Background: Using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) combined to MRI is helpful to distinguish malignant versus benign breast lesions. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy provides biochemical information about the tissue under investigation. Patient and methods: The study included 30 patients with suspicious breast lesions detected by clinical examination, mammography and/or breast ultrasound. All patients included in this study were subjected to Mammographic examination, ultrasound examination, and MRI examination including diffusion-weighted imaging and proton MR spectroscopy. Results: In this study the sensitivity of MRS was 90%, its specificity was 78.6%, accuracy was 85%, PPV was 85.7% and NPV was 84.6%. Regarding the sensitivity of diffusion and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), it was 90%, while its specificity was 92.8% and 91.1%, 94.7%, 86.6% for the accuracy, PPV and NPV respectively. Conclusion: The combination of MRS and DWI with magnetic resonance imaging should provide complementary information not available by either modality alone.

AIM: To evaluate the indications, complications, and visual and graft survival outcomes in eyes that had undergone simultaneous cataract extraction and penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). METHODS: We described a retrospective study of 101 patients who had undergone simultaneous cataract extraction and PKP at King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2002. All patients were followed up postoperatively with maximum follow-up 68 months. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 61 years. The mean overall follow-up was 27 months. The most common indications for surgery were corneal scarring (45.5%), previous failed graft (15.8%), corneal ulcer (12.9%), Fuchs endothelial dystrophy (8.9%), stromal dystrophy (2.9%), and other conditions (14.5%). Overall, 69 grafts (68.3%) remained clear at final follow-up. Previous glaucoma or postoperative glaucoma had no statistically significant effects on graft outcome (P>0.05).The graft rejection rate (17.8%) was a significant risk factor for failure (P=0.00). Age, gender, indications for surgery, corneal graft diameter, and intraoperative vitreous loss had no statistically significant effects on the PKP outcome (P>0.05). Postoperative visual acuity was significantly associated with preoperative visual acuity (P