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Abstract Strongylus vulgaris, a devastating parasitic nematode in equids, causes life-threatening verminous aneurysms that are challenging to diagnose early. This study pioneered integrating nanotechnology into an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (i-ELISA) system to enhance the sensitivity and specificity for detecting S. vulgaris larval antigens in equine serum samples, with PCR confirmation of the species. A conventional i-ELISA and an innovative nano-based ELISA were developed using excretory-secretory antigens from adult S. vulgaris worms. The nano-ELISA incorporated gold nanoparticles (17.4–41.4 nm) conjugated with detection antibodies, enabling remarkable signal amplification. Of the 120 examined equines, 100 (83.33%) were positive for S. vulgaris infection. A conventional i-ELISA and an innovative nano-ELISA incorporating 17.4–41.4 nm gold nanoparticles were optimized using S. vulgaris excretory-secretory antigens. Both assays demonstrated high specificity, with no cross-reactivity against sera from animals infected with other helminth parasites. Remarkably, optical density (OD) readings from both i-ELISAs exhibited a positive quantitative correlation with infection intensity. The i-ELISA OD ranged from 0.45–0.74 (G3), 0.75–0.94 (G2), to 0.95–2.5 (G1). The nano-ELISA showed enhanced signal amplification, with OD ranging from 0.40–0.84 (G3), 0.85–0.99 (G2), to 1.0–3.5 (G1). This nanotechnology-amplified ELISA opens new, highly sensitive, and specific techniques for parasitic diagnosis in equine medicine. Its superior performance, facilitated by signal-amplifying gold nanoparticles, illuminates nanotechnology's potential in revolutionizing parasitological diagnostics for enhanced animal health and welfare management.

Abstract This study aimed to conduct a multidisciplinary investigation integrating detailed morphology, molecular characterization, water parameters, histopathology alteration, and the trials of treatment of Clinostomum spp. In this study, 300 Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were collected from the farmed and wild Nile River at Al Bahr Al Aazam, Giza Governorate to assess Clinostomid infection prevalence. Fish and water samples were collected from private fish farms, and water drains at Dakahlia, and Giza, Egypt. Analysis of the water revealed inadequate water quality, particularly in the fish farms. Snails and piscivorous birds were abundant at fish collection sites. The recovered Clinostomid MCs morphological characteristics and COI gene sequence analysis identified them as Clinostomum complanatum, C. phalacrocoracis, and Euclinostomum heterostomum. Clinostomid MCs disturbed the fish’s hematological and biochemical blood parameters. Bath treatment of parasitized fish with praziquantel (2 mg/L for 24 h) revealed a significant reduction in the number of vital MCs vs. infected fish (non-treated). Praziquantel (PZQ) is an effective and safe therapy for controlling Clinostomid infections affecting farmed Nile tilapia. The current findings indicate a link between poor environmental conditions and Clinostomum infections in tilapia. The study highlights the impacts of Clinostomid MCs on fish health and recommends bath treatment with PZQ as an efficient control method for these dangerous parasites to protect human and fish health.

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by a poor prognosis. Consequently, the current research aims to identify new therapeutic targets for TNBC patients. Trichorhinophalangeal syndrome type 1 (TRPS1), a novel GATA transcription factor, and CYP4Z1, a fatty acid hydroxylase, present potential targets for novel therapies.Method: This retrospective study included 70 TNBC patients. The immunohistochemical expression of TRPS1, GATA3, and CYP4Z1 was evaluated. Data regarding the patient's clinical and pathological responses to chemotherapy were collected and analyzed for response assessment. SPSS version 20 software facilitated the data analysis. Quantitative variables were described using means and standard deviations, whereas categorical variables were examined using the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test as appropriate. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier plots, including disease-free and overall survival. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: The analysis showed that 37 cases (53%) were positive for TRPS1 expression, 45 cases (65%) for GATA3, and 40 cases (57%) for CYP4Z1. There was a significant association between the expression of GATA3, TRPS1, and CYP4Z1 and various prognostic factors such as tumor size, grade, stage, lymphovascular invasion, recurrence, and mortality. Notably, the overall recurrence and progression rates were significantly correlated with the overexpression of GATA3, TRPS1, and CYP4Z1.Conclusion: The overexpression of TRPS1, GATA3, and CYP4Z1 in TNBC patients may be novel prognostic factors for predicting tumor prognosis. Furthermore, these markers could assist in selecting patients for future therapies in both localized and metastatic breast carcinoma settings.

Abstract Fish-borne zoonotic trematodes (FBZTs) pose significant health risks and economic challenges worldwide. This study investigated the prevalence of encysted metacercariae (EMCs) in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from two Egyptian governorates and evaluated the antiparasitic efficacy of chitosan, silver, and selenium nanoparticles against these parasites. A cross-sectional analysis of 453 O. niloticus specimens revealed an overall EMC prevalence of 40.8%, with infection rates of 34.11% in Giza and 49.5% in Dakahlia. Clinostomid and Prohemistomid metacercariae were the most common, with mixed infections observed. Transmission electron microscopy characterized the synthesized nanoparticles, showing average diameters of 9.6–18.7 nm for chitosan, 13.2–19.8 nm for selenium, and 11.7–15.1 nm for silver nanoparticles. In vitro antiparasitic assays demonstrated varying efficacies among the nanoparticles. Against Clinostomum spp. metacercariae, chitosan nanoparticles showed the highest potency, achieving LC50 at 66 μg/ml after 30 min and LC90 at 100 μg/ml after 120 min. For Prohemistomum vivax EMCs, chitosan nanoparticles exhibited superior efficacy, achieving LC50 at 8 μg/ml after 1 h and LC90 at 16 μg/ml after 2 h. Silver and selenium nanoparticles showed lower efficacy for both parasite species. Scanning electron microscopy revealed significant ultrastructural damage to the parasite tegument following nanoparticle exposure, including disappearance of transverse ridges, integument shrinkage, and formation of blebs. This study provided valuable insights into the prevalence of FBZTs in Egyptian Nile tilapia and demonstrated the potential of nanoparticles, particularly chitosan, as effective antiparasitic agents. These findings pave the way for developing novel, targeted strategies to control fish-borne zoonotic trematodes, potentially reducing their impact on public health and aquaculture economies.

Abstract This study investigated a disease outbreak characterized by caligid copepod infestations and subsequent secondary bacterial infections in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) cultivated at a private facility in the Deeba Triangle region of Egypt. Moribund fish displayed brown spots on the skin, tongue, and gills, along with lethargy and excess mucus. The fish suffered severe infections, exhibiting external hemorrhages, ulcers, and ascites. The fish had pale, enlarged livers with hemorrhaging. Comprehensive parasitological, bacteriological, molecular, immunity and histopathological analyses were conducted to identify the etiological agents and pathological changes. Caligid copepod infestation was observed in wet mounts from the buccal and branchial cavities of all examined fish, and the caligids were identified as Caligus clemensi through COI gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Vibrio alginolyticus was confirmed as a secondary bacterial infection through biochemical tests, recA gene sequencing, and phylogenetic analyses. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed resistance to β-lactams, aminoglycosides, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole in V. alginolyticus isolates. Upregulation of the inflammatory marker IL-1β in gill and skin tissues indicated a robust cell-mediated immune response against the pathogens. Histopathological examination revealed severe tissue damage, hyperplasia, hemorrhage, and congestion in the gills, along with hepatocellular degeneration and steatosis in the liver, providing initial insights into this outbreak. A comprehensive therapeutic regimen was implemented, comprising prolonged hydrogen peroxide immersion baths, followed by the application of the nature-identical plant-based compound Lice-less and probiotic Sanolife Pro-W supplementation. This integrated approach effectively eliminated C. clemensi infestations, controlled secondary bacterial infections, and restored fish health, reducing morbidity and mortality rates to minimal levels.

Meckel's diverticulum (MD), a congenital abnormality occurring in 0.3% to 3% of individuals, shares overlapping clinical features with acute appendicitis (AA), a common surgical emergency, making simultaneous presentation diagnostically challenging. An 11-year-old boy presented with right lower abdominal pain, fever, and loss of appetite, exhibiting positive Rovsing and Psoas signs. Elevated inflammatory markers and ultrasound findings suggested acute appendicitis with concurrent Meckel's diverticulitis. Surgery confirmed acute suppurative appendicitis and an inflamed MD, both of which were successfully treated with appendectomy and segmental intestinal resection. The patient had an uneventful recovery and remained well during follow-up. This case highlights the importance of considering MD in pediatric abdominal pain and performing thorough intraoperative assessments to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Abstract This study investigated the prevalence, morphology, molecular identification, and histopathological effects of larval tapeworms (plerocercoids) infecting the skeletal muscles of the Indian halibut (Psettodes erumei) collected from the coastal waters of the Arabian Gulf. Numerous oval or round blastocysts, measuring 13–26 mm, were found embedded within the muscular tissues of the Indian halibut, rendering the fish unsuitable for human consumption. Morphological and molecular analyses identified the plerocercoids as Dasyrhynchus giganteus (family Dasyrhynchidae), with an overall prevalence of 15.4%. The seasonal prevalence was the highest in summer (14.6%), followed by spring (10.6%), winter (4.4%), and autumn (3.5%). Infection rates increased with fish size. Histopathological examination revealed fibrous connective tissue capsules surrounding the larvae, causing muscular atrophy and degenerative changes, with few inflammatory eosinophilic cells. Molecular and phylogenetic analysis of the 28S rDNA gene sequences confirmed the specimens as D. giganteus, clustered closely with other sequences of D. giganteus with 100% bootstrap values. This study provided valuable insights into the parasitic infection dynamics, seasonal variation, molecular identification, and histopathological effects, highlighting the importance of monitoring fish for food safety and public health implications.

Abstract This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with the product Hilyses on growth performance, feed utilization, nutrient composition, hematological parameters, serum biochemistry, immune function, antioxidant status, and digestive enzyme activity in juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus, initial body weight 4.24 ± 0.01 g). The fish were fed diets supplemented with Hilyses at concentrations of 0, 1, 2, or 3 g/kg for a period of 8 weeks. The results showed that supplementation with Hilyses at levels up to 2 g/kg diet significantly improved final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed efficiency ratio, protein efficiency ratio, apparent protein utilization, and energy utilization compared to the control diet without Hilyses. Carcass crude protein content and moisture were significantly higher in Hilyses-fed groups, while crude lipid content decreased at the 3 g/kg supplementation level. Hilyses supplementation enhanced various hematological parameters, including increased red blood cell count, total leukocyte count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, and mean corpuscular volume. Serum biochemistry and immune function markers like total protein, albumin, complement component C3, IgM, and IgG were significantly elevated in the 2 and 3 g/kg Hilyses groups. Antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, total superoxide dismutase) were enhanced, and lipid peroxidation was reduced, in the 2 g/kg Hilyses group. Digestive enzyme activities, particularly protease and lipase, were also improved with Hilyses supplementation. Histological examination showed reduced lipid deposition in the liver and increased branching of intestinal villi at the 2 g/kg Hilyses level. Overall, these results indicated that dietary Hilyses supplementation at 2 g/kg diet optimizes growth, feed utilization, nutrient composition, hematology, immunity, antioxidant status, and digestive function in juvenile Nile tilapia.

Abstract Yellow grub disease, caused by Clinostomum metacercaria, is an endemic zoonotic infection in freshwater fish, responsible for Halzoun syndrome transmitted through the consumption of raw infected fish. This study aimed to conduct a multidisciplinary investigation integrating detailed morphology, oxidative stress, immunology, and histopathology alteration to advance our understanding of Clinostomum infection. In this annual study, 400 Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were collected from the Nile River at Al Bahr Al Aazam, Giza Governorate to assess Clinostomum infection prevalence. Of the examined fish, 160 individuals (40.0%) harboured larval Clinostomum infections. Clinostomum metacercariae were observed in various anatomical locations, with 135 fish (33.8%) in buccal cavities, 21 fish (5.25%) in gill chambers, and 4 fish (1.0%) on the skin. Infection intensity ranged from 2 to 12 cysts per fish, averaging 5 cysts, notably with skin infections characterized by a single cyst in each fish. Macroscopic encysted metacercariae were collected from buccal cavities, gills, and skin. Micro-morphology revealed distinct features in C. complanatum, including an elliptical oral sucker with collar-like rings and large sensory papilla-like structures, contrasting with the absence of these features in C. phalacrocoracis. Oxidative stress, assessed through malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide levels, revealed an elevation in MDA to 35.13 ± 6 nmol/g and nitric oxide to 25.80 ± 3.12 µmol/g in infected fish. In infected fish, MHC-I gene expression increased approximately 13-fold, MHC-II peaked at 19-fold, and IL-1β significantly upregulated by 17-fold, compared to control levels. Histopathology detailed associated lesions, such as cyst encapsulation and eosinophilic infiltration. Clinstomiasis and its impacts on fish hosts offer crucial insights to control this emerging fish-borne zoonotic disease, threatening wildlife, aquaculture, and human health.

In recent times, Learning Management Systems (LMS) have gained significant popularity, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, offering improved effectiveness and efficiency. Within LMS, online exams have emerged as a critical tool for assessing students’ performance and understanding of course material, playing a vital role in determining their progression. Ensuring the reliability and transparency of online exam results is imperative. Any vulnerability, such as hacking, can adversely impact students’ grades. Conventional online exam systems often store data centrally in databases like MySQL, making them susceptible to unauthorized access and manipulation. This paper presents a blockchain-based framework to enable secure and peer-to-peer conduction and evaluation of academic exams. The framework uses hashing techniques to ensure data integrity and employs proof of stake mechanisms for enhanced security. Blockchain’s decentralized data storage and cryptographic hashing for each block make it effective in safeguarding data integrity. The paper demonstrates the use of blockchain for developing online exams, storing each question and answer directly on the blockchain. To achieve this, we have created a module that integrates with the Moodle learning management system. Through a comparative analysis with Moodle’s default centralized storage, our module modifies the exam result storage, ensuring secure and tamper-proof data storage on the blockchain. By leveraging the blockchain, exam data is reliably secured, maintaining integrity, and resisting manipulation. Our results show that data stored on the blockchain is entirely accurate, with no discrepancies compared to Moodle’s standard approach. The blockchain network provides a reliable and immutable platform, preventing unauthorized changes to student data. In conclusion, our blockchain-based framework offers a robust solution for enhancing the security and reliability of online exam results. By harnessing blockchain’s decentralized and tamper-proof nature, we ensure data integrity and transparency, providing a more trustworthy assessment of academic performance.

This paper investigates the integration of optical fibers into an on-chip Fabry–Pérot (FP) resonator to achieve high-quality (Q) factors, which is favorable in sensing applications. Initially designed for high-speed data transmission, optical fibers are now utilized in sensing applications because of their flexibility and sensitivity to optical phenomena. This article focuses on the role of single-mode fibers (SMF) and the geometry of different structures in enhancing light confinement within FP resonators. Two distinct on-chip designs utilizing SMFs are demonstrated, modeled, and experimentally evaluated. One achieves a Q-factor higher than 5200, demonstrating significant improvement in light confinement, while the other maximizes the spectral range between the resonant modes’ peaks, maximizing the sensing range through the wavelength shift. This is supported by visualized simulation and coupling efficiencies calculations for fundamental and higher-order modes for comprehensive analysis. Comparison with existing literature is also made, underscoring the advancements achieved by the presented approaches. The findings contribute to the development of microscale refractive index sensing applications, highlighting the vital role of optical fiber integration for high-performance sensing.

The purple-spotted bigeye, Priacanthus tayenus, is a marine benthic fish native to the Indian and Pacific Oceans, including the Arabian Gulf in Saudi Arabia. This study identified a myxozoan parasite infecting wild P. tayenus from the Saudi Arabian Gulf. These parasites produced spherical to ovoid-shaped, white plasmodia enclosed within pseudocysts in the fish musculature. The annual infection rate was 5.1%, with the highest prevalence in summer (7.6%), followed by spring (6%), and autumn (2.5%), while no infections were observed in winter. The number of plasmodia per fish ranged from 100 to 150 (135.1 ± 16.2). Their dimensions were 4-4.7 mm (4.3 ± 0.3 mm) in length and 4.5-7 mm (6 ± 1.1 mm) in width. Milky-colored exudates within the plasmodia contained mature spores measuring 8-9 μm (8.6 ± 0.4 μm) x 6-7.5 μm (6.9 ± 0.5 μm). The polar capsules of the spores exhibited dimensions of 2-5 μm (3.5 ± 0.5 μm) x 2.5-4.5 μm (3 ± 0.45 μm). Both morphological and genetic analyses confirmed these plasmodia as a novel Kudoa species. Histopathological examination revealed atrophy in the surrounding muscles without an inflammatory response. This study documents the first occurrence of a novel Kudoa sp. in P. tayenus at the Jubail landing site in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for further surveillance and investigations to elucidate its pathogenesis and implications for wild fish stocks.

ABSTRACTAmyloodiniosis and vibriosis are serious diseases in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) hatcheries with noticeable high mortality. This study was conducted on tank-cultured D. labrax frys at a private marine hatchery near Mariout Lake (Alexandria, Egypt). Frys showed a high mortality rate (70%), lethargy, darkening, asphyxia, ascites, and velvety skin appearance. Both infectious agents were presumptively identified in all investigated frys. The identities of the two recovered agents were confirmed by molecular assay and phylogenetic analysis. On the tissue level, histopathological examination of skin, splenic, and renal tissue indicated severe alterations due to the direct impacts of both infections. On the cellular level, scanning electron micrographs showed both protozoal and bacterial pathogens on/in gill epithelial cells in solitary and colonial forms. Vibrio alginolyticus showed variable results for tested antibiotics, with a higher sensitivity to florfenicol. A successful control strategy was strictly adopted to overcome infections and stop mortalities. Copper sulphate and hydrogen peroxide were efficiently applied to tank water to overcome A. ocellatum infections. Further, florfenicol was effectively used to overcome systemic V. alginolyticus infections. The efficacy of treatments was confirmed by the absence of infectious agents in randomly collected fish samples. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the earliest Egyptian studies that dealt with the dilemma of mass kills associated with external parasitic/systemic bacterial infections among hatchery-reared European seabass.

Abstract SARS-CoV-2 virus has rapidly spread worldwide since December 2019, causing COVID-19 disease. In-hospital mortality is a common indicator for evaluating treatment outcomes. Therefore, the developing and validating a simple score system from observational data could assist in modulating the management procedures. A retrospective cohort study included all data records of patients with positive PCR for SARS-CoV-2. The factors that associated with mortality were analyzed, then allocation of potential predictors of mortality was executed using different logistic regression modeling, subsequently scoring system was developed from the most weighted predictors. The mortality rate of patients with COVID-19 pneumonia was 28.5% and 28.74%, respectively. The most significant factors that affected in-hospital mortality were old age (> 60 years), delay in hospital admission (> 4 days), high neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio “NLR” (> 3); higher computed tomography severity score; and CT-SS (> 20), in addition to using remdesivir and tocilizumab in the treatment protocol (P

In this study, we examined eight white inbred lines of maize and their F1 crosses under normal and drought stress conditions to estimate their combining ability for grain yield and associated traits. The results showed significant correlation (mean squares) of irrigation treatment with the studied traits. The effects of parents, crosses, and genotypes were all determined to be highly significant under both irrigation levels. Grain yield and other traits showed significant differences (mean squares) associated with both General combining ability (GCA) and Specific combining ability (SCA) under both irrigation regimes, demonstrating the importance of both additive and nonadditive genetic effects in the expression of performance traits. The parental line (P-86) had positive and highly significant GCA effects, as well as the crosses (P-17×P-96), (P-8×P-96), (P-8×P-171), (P-24×P-86), (P-86×P-96), (P-86×P-171), and (P-96×P-171) which then gave the highest specific combinations under both irrigation regimes for grain yield and some of the associated traits. The highest level of heterosis (heterobeltiosis) for grain yield was obtained in the crosses (P-8×P-96), (P-8×P-137), (P-8×P-171), (P-96×P137), and (P-96×P-171) under both irrigation regimes.

Abstract This study aimed to identify the mortality present in private fish farm Amyloodinium ocellatum and Cryptocaryon irritans were isolated from this outbreak affecting Liza carinata fingerlings at an earthen-based aquaculture facility in Damietta, Egypt. A total of 140 moribunds, L. carinata, were collected from the fish ponds during the mortality events. Physico-chemical analysis of water was analyzed. The skin, fins, gills, and eyes of each fish specimen were scraped gently onto slides in areas over 2 cm area. All smears were examined separately under the light microscope. Molecular identification of the parasites using analysis of ITS rDNA regions flanking both 18S and 28S rDNA genes of Amyloodinium protozoa and C. irritans. Identities of the detected parasites were confirmed by gene sequence and phylogenetic analysis. The majority of the examined fish (90%) were infected, 66.42% had a mixed infection, and 23.57% had a single infection either with A. ocellatum (10.71%) or C. irritans (12.85%).The mean intensity of A. ocellatum was 16.5 ± 2.03 in the skin and 13.18 ± 1.90 in the gills of infected fish, while that of C. irritans was 4.75 ± 1.05 in gills and 7.43 ± 1.45 in the skin, respectively. To control the emergent mortalities, affected ponds were treated using copper sulfate pentahydrate, hydrogen peroxides solutions, and amprolium hydrochloride powder in feed. Fish across the treated ponds were gradually improved with low morbidity and mortalityrates during the treatment period. The clinical disease was almost diminished at the end of the second week of treatment. Coinciding with the clinical improvement of the treated juveniles, microscopical examination of skin/gill scraps exhibited a marked decline in the number of protozoan parasites at the end of the second week of treatment.

Abstract Background Cardiac catheterization is usually done routinely in patients with univentricular hearts before palliative Bidirectional Glenn (BDG) surgery. The objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of patients with physiological univentricular hearts and restrictive pulmonary flow that did not undergo routine cardiac catheterization before BDG with the patients that did have cardiac catheterization done. We retrospectively reviewed the data of all patients with single ventricle physiology and restrictive pulmonary blood flow who underwent BDG surgery from January 2016 till December 2020. Patients were divided into two groups: the catheterization and the non-catheterization groups. Results Out of 93 patients, 25 (27%) underwent BDG surgery without prior cardiac catheterization. The median age of patients was ten months, interquartile range (IQR) was 5–18 months. Tricuspid atresia represented 36% of the non-catheterization group, while unbalanced atrioventricular septal defect and hypoplastic left heart syndrome represented 19% and 17.6% of the catheterization group. No patients in the catheterization group were excluded from further BDG surgery based on the catheterization data. Moreover, no significant differences were found between the patients' groups regarding the length of hospital stay, length of intensive care unit stay, postoperative oxygen saturation, or survival (P = 0.266, P = 0.763, P = 0.543, P = 0456). Conclusions Although pre-BDG cardiac catheterization is the routine and standard practice, in certain situations, some patients with single ventricle physiology and restrictive pulmonary blood flow may go directly to BDG without cardiac catheterization if noninvasive imaging is satisfactory on a case-by-case basis and according to center experience. Pre-BDG catheterization could be reserved for patients with limited echocardiographic studies, high-risk patients, or those indicated for catheter intervention before BDG surgery.

The von Neumann bottleneck is imposed due to the explosion of data transfers and emerging data-intensive applications in heterogeneous system architectures. The conventional computation approach of transferring data to CPU is no longer suitable especially with the cost it imposes. Given the increasing storage capacities, moving extensive data volumes between storage and computation cannot scale up. Hence, high-performance data processing mechanisms are needed, which may be achieved by bringing computation closer to data. Gathering insights where data is stored helps deal with energy efficiency, low latency, as well as security. Storage bus bandwidth is also saved when only computation results are delivered to the host memory. Various applications, including database acceleration, machine learning, Artificial Intelligence (AI), offloading (compression/encryption/encoding) and others can perform better and become more scalable if the “move process to data” paradigm is applied. Embedding processing engines inside Solid-State Drives (SSDs), transforming them to Computational Storage Devices (CSDs), provides the needed data processing solution. In this paper, we review the prior art on Near Data Processing (NDP) with focus on In-Storage Computing (ISC), identifying main challenges and potential gaps for future research directions.

Abstract Background Obesity has been identified as an independent risk factor for postoperative respiratory complications in several studies. In the pediatric and newborn populations, high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO2) therapy was initially demonstrated to be an effective treatment for acute respiratory failure. It becomes increasingly popular as a therapy for adult patients, with a growing range of clinical applications. Results One hundred ten patients were admitted to the ICU for postoperative care after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. They were examined and randomized equally into two groups: group A (HFNO2 therapy group) who received high-flow nasal oxygen therapy, group B (VMO2 therapy group) who received venturi mask oxygen therapy. The partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2), partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2), respiratory rate, and length of ICU stay were recorded. The partial pressure of oxygen in the arterial blood (PaO2) was 131.764 (95% CI 124.562–138.965) in the HFNO2 group versus 106.767 (95% CI 99.565–113.968) in the VMO2 group, partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) was 321.81 (95% CI 307.486–336.153) in the HFNO2 group versus 276.767 (95% CI 262.433–291.100) in the VMO2 group, and respiratory rate was 20.778 (95% CI 20.172–21.385) in the HFNO2 group versus 24.047 (95% CI 23.441–24.654) in the VMO2 group, while the length of ICU stay was the HFNO2 group (1.09 ± .29 days) and (1.00 ± .000 day) in the VMO2 group. Conclusions In conclusion, our study has shown that high-flow nasal oxygen therapy in postoperative laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy patients with atelectasis-maintained oxygenation represented as PaO2 and PaO2/FiO2 higher than the venturi mask and significantly decreased the respiratory rate but did not decrease the length of ICU stay when compared to venturi mask oxygen therapy. Trial registration Clinical trial registered with http://www.pactr.org (PACTR202108492295773).

The design of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) has become a promising technology for modifying a protein of interest (POI) through protein degradation. Herein, we describe the synthetic pathway to develop N4-(2-amino-4-fluorophenyl)-N1-(3-{2-[2-(3-{[2-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidyl)-1,3-dioxoisoindolin-4-yl]amino}propoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy}propyl)terephthalamide, which was designed to work as a selective degrader of histone deacetylase-3 (HDAC3). The newly synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, IR and HRMS. The title compound was tested in vitro against human class-I HDACs isoforms and showed IC50 = 3.4 µM against HDAC3; however, it did not show degradation for the targeted HDACs.

Abstract Background Ductal stenting is the preferred method of securing adequate pulmonary blood flow in patients with duct-dependent pulmonary circulation. The main limitation in most centers is the difficult vertical tubular or convoluted ducts that represent real challenges to interventional pediatric cardiologists. We present our experience in patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) stenting with some technical tips to overcome difficulties, especially in stenting tortuous or long tubular ducts. This study was conducted on all patients with cyanotic congenital heart disease who underwent PDA stenting between January 2011 and December 2018. Results We attempted to stent the PDA in 43 patients, with a success rate of 93% (40 patients) and only one procedural mortality. There was also one stent migration that needed to be treated with urgent surgery. Three-fourths of the patients had difficult ductal morphology and origin. One stent was used to cover the PDA in 27 patients (62.8%), two stents were used in 13 (30.2%), and three stents were used in 2 patients (4.6%). In-stent stenosis rate was 12.5% (5 patients) and the development of progressive left pulmonary artery stenosis was seen in two patients (5%). Pulmonary artery growth was adequate in all patients. Conclusions PDA stenting is an effective method of palliation for patients with duct-dependent pulmonary circulation. It has low morbidity and mortality rates. Stenting difficult ducts have become more feasible with evolving materials and techniques.

Background: Pneumonia is a life-threatening disease in children. Diagnosis of pneumonia is mainly clinical. However, some clinical features may be subtle or not specific. Lung ultrasound (LUS) might be used as a diagnostic tool in pneumonia as it is an easily accessible and safe imaging technique. Aim of the work: This study aimed to investigate the role of lung ultrasound in diagnosing pneumonia compared to chest x-ray in children. Subjects and methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out at the general pediatric wards and pediatric intensive care units [PICUs], Department of Pediatrics, Al-Azhar University Hospital [Damietta]. It included 120 patients who were clinically diagnosed to have pneumonia. Each legal guardian signed informed consent. Then, everyone was subjected to chest x-ray and lung ultrasound, and results were compared. Results: Sonographic findings in children with pneumonia as consolidation was detected in 114/120 (95.6%), air bronchogram in 104/120 (86.7%), fluid bronchogram 37(31.1%), multiple B-lines in 68/120 (56.7%), pleural effusion in 29/120 (24.4%). The lung ultrasound [LUS] showed higher diagnostic accuracy (94.45%), sensitivity (95.6%), and specificity (93.3%). There was a statistically significant good agreement between LUS and chest X-ray [CXR]. Conclusion: LUS is safe, accurate, and more sensitive for the diagnosis of suspected pneumonia in the pediatric age group and had the advantage of reducing radiation hazard when compared to chest X-ray

Bisphenol A(BPA) an endocrine disruptor used in the manufacturing process of plastic. BPA low doses on long exposure periods had many hazardous effects. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of lowest dose of BPA on the male induced orally on the at reproductive performance and changes in the testes that takes place histologically. P53 gene expression by Realtime PCR was also evaluated. Seventy- two albino male rats were divided into two groups, group I (control male rats receiving corn oil only). Group II (64 male rats) which was treated with oral doses of 50 µg/ kg/ day daily for 8 weeks. Every week 8 male rats were dissected and subjected to the investigated parameters. BPA treated groups presented decrease in sperms count, motility, progression and viability as well as a significant increase in sperms head or/and tail abnormalities were recognized. Histology of the testes showed abnormal and irregular organization of seminiferous tubules and decreased sperms in the testes lumen. Moreover, up-regulation in p53 expression was recorded after BPA exposure. In conclusion, these results showed that exposure to BPA at low dose 50µg/kg can cause many reproductive disorders which may impair fertility.

Background. Secondary bacterial and fungal coinfections have been reported among critically ill coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) patients and are associated with increased disease severity and mortality incidence (MI) rates. Aims. This study aimed to track bacterial and fungal coinfections among COVID-19 patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) and to assess the impact of these infections on disease prognosis and patient outcomes in Jordan. Materials and Methods. This was a single-center study that enrolled 46 ICU patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Microbiological and antimicrobial susceptibility results and inflammatory biomarker data were retrospectively analyzed. Results. The MI rate attributed to bacterial and fungal coinfections was 84.8%, and the highest rate was reported among patients older than 70 years (66.7%). The MI rate related to bacterial coinfections was 95.2%, whereas that of fungal coinfections was 4.8%. The most commonly isolated bacterium in the blood was a coagulase-negative staphylococcus (41%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae in nasopharyngeal swabs (34%) and Acinetobacter baumannii in sputum samples (31%). Candida species were the sole cause of fungal coinfections in the studied population. In particular, Candida albicans was isolated from 3% of patients with bacteremia, whereas Candida glabrata was isolated from 8% of nasopharyngeal swabs. Klebsiella pneumoniae was considered the major cause of upper respiratory tract infections (34%). Multifactorial infection was significantly associated with increased MI (p value

Automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are taking more control of Electronic Control Unit (ECU) hardware/software architecture definition and exploration mainly due to the rise of new technologies in ADAS and autonomous vehicles. The increasing number of cars with ECUs containing tens of processors, and the need to accelerate the simulation of thousands of driving scenarios and design parameters to ensure safety and reliability in autonomous driving has expanded the use of Hardware Emulation-In-The-Loop based on its capacity and functional verification merits. In this paper, an integrated heterogeneous system of systems framework to simulate and verify multiple ECUs is presented. The framework allows co-development of the automotive system application software, operating system and controller hardware together with the mechanical system actuators, sensors, and the physical world environment/traffic scenarios all in one. A comprehensive manual/automatic braking system use case consisting of four ECUs at different levels of abstraction is used to demonstrate the tools and interface technologies developed in-house and integrated with third-party tools.

Class I histone deacetylases, HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC3, represent potential targets for cancer treatment. However, the development of isoform-selective drugs for these enzymes remains challenging due to their high sequence and structural similarity. In the current study, we applied a computational approach to predict the selectivity profile of developed inhibitors. Molecular docking followed by MD simulation and calculation of binding free energy was performed for a dataset of 2-aminobenzamides comprising 30 previously developed inhibitors. For each HDAC isoform, a significant correlation was found between the binding free energy values and in vitro inhibitory activities. The predictive accuracy and reliability of the best preforming models were assessed on an external test set of newly designed and synthesized inhibitors. The developed binding free-energy models are cost-effective methods and help to reduce the time required to prioritize compounds for further studies.

Aim: This cross-sectional study was conducted from April to July 2012 in Khartoum state, Sudan, to determine the seroprevalence of brucellosis in goats and to investigate potential risk factors associated with this disease. Materials and Methods: A total of 307 serum samples were collected from both sexes of goats in four different localities and were subjected to testing for brucellosis using rose bengal plate test (RBPT), serum agglutination test (SAT), and competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA). Results: The overall seroprevalence was 11.4% (n=35) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 7.80 to 15.0. Out of these 35 RBPT-positive samples, the positivity of 18 and 17 were confirmed by SAT and cELISA, respectively. A significant statistical variation was observed between brucellosis seroprevalences in goats purchased from local animal markets and goats that were raised at the farm. Conversely, such significant variations were not observed among the categories of other risk factors with seroprevalences ranging from 3.0% (95% CI between 0.40 and 7.20) to 16.3% (95% CI between 10.4 and 22.3). Location (χ2=9.33, df=3, p=0.02), breed (χ2=3.52, df=1, p=0.05), herd size (χ2=6.59, df=2, p=0.03), and herd expansion (χ2=5.39, df=1, p=0.02) were associated with RBPT-positive status for brucella in the two-tailed Chi-square test. In addition, Sharq an-Nil locality and goats raised at the farm had increased odds of being RBPT positive. Conclusion: Brucellosis was detected in goats in all surveyed localities. An effort should be made to educate goat owners/herders about brucellosis as well as about the importance of vaccination.

Schistosomiasis is a major neglected parasitic disease that affects more than 240 million people worldwide and for which the control strategy consists of mass treatment with the only available drug, praziquantel. Schistosomes display morphologically distinct stages during their life cycle and the transformations between stages are controlled by epigenetic mechanisms. The targeting of epigenetic actors might therefore represent the parasites’ Achilles’ heel. Specifically, histone deacetylases have been recently characterized as drug targets for the treatment of schistosomiasis. This review focuses on the recent development of inhibitors for schistosome histone deacetylases. In particular, advances in the development of inhibitors of Schistosoma mansoni histone deacetylase 8 have indicated that targeting this enzyme is a promising approach for the treatment of this infection.

Objective: This cross-sectional study was conducted from July to November 2015 to estimate the prevalence of anti-toxopalsma antibodies in sheep and goats in El-Gadarif state. Material and methods: A total of 400 serum samples comprising of 200 sheep and 200 goats were collected and tested by Toxo-latex agglutination test and indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). Results: The overall sero-prevalence was 52.0% (n=208/400) using Toxo-latex agglutination test and 45.7%(n=42/92) and 27.2%(n=25/92) using iELISA in sheep and goats, respectively. Furthermore, the sero-prevalences among the two investigated species and the two age groups were statistically similar but were different between localities, breeds and sexes. In the univariate analysis, species (P=0.028) and locality (P=0.001) were associated with Toxo-latex agglutination test positive status. Additionally, species (sheep) and locality (Al-Fao, Al-Hawatah, and West El-Gadarif) had increased odds of being Toxo-latex agglutination test positive in the multivariate analysis. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the prevalence of anti-toxopalsma antibodies is relatively high and there was no between-species variation in sero-positivity. These findings warrant further investigations to estimate the burden of the disease and the likelihood of zoonotic transmission. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2017; 4(2.000): 207-213]

Objective: This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2013 to estimate the prevalence of internal lesions in slaughtered camels at Tambool slaughterhouse and to identify the aerobic bacteria colonizing these lesions. Material and methods: A total of 280 carcasses of camels were thoroughly inspected during post-mortem examination and samples were collected from internal lesions and cultured onto different culture media. Isolated bacteria had undergone testing of several biochemical activities for species identification and susceptibility to certain antibiotics. Results: Internal lesions were detected in 25.0% (95% CI of ±5.07) of the carcasses and were observed in the lungs, liver and heart. Statistical association analyses showed that origin, sex, breed, and body condition were related to detection of lesions. A number of 179 isolates of aerobic bacteria belonging to 9 genera were grown and included Staphylococcus species (32.0%), Escherichia coli (26.0%), Streptococcus species (18.0%), Corynebacterium species (5.0%), and Bacillus species, Salmonella species, Pseudomonus species, and Klebsiella species; each of them 4.0%, and Shigella species (2%). Drug susceptibility testing showed that chloramphenicol was the most effective antibiotic against Staphylococcus species, Corynebacterium species, and Bacillus species, while penicillin g 10 was more effective against Streptococcus species. Ciprofloxacin 5 µg and ampicllin/sulpactum 20 µg were effective against E. coli, Salmonella species, Klebsiella species, Shigella species, and Pseudomonas species. Conclusion: It can be concluded that internal lesions are prevalent in camels slaughtered at Tambool slaughterhouse and many species of bacteria were colonizing these lesions, hence, evaluating the economic magnitude of internal lesions resulting in partial and/or total condemnation of organs is warranted. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2017; 4(1.000): 22-31]

Honey bees have good thermoregulation and rapidly respond to any changes in the microclimatic conditions of their colonies. However, colony losses can occur during very cold or hot months. Honey bee colonies are often kept in modified beehives during such times to save the honey bees lives. In the present study, the abilities of four beehive types to enhance the performance of two honey bee races (Carniolan and Yemeni honey bees) were compared under hot and arid environmental conditions. The results indicated performance differences between the two races and between the selected beehive types. For the Carniolan honey bees, better results were obtained in colonies provided with insulated cover boxes (ICB) than in thermoregulatory beehives (TBH), insulated beehives with a back drawer (IBD), and normal beehives (NB) in that order. In contrast, better Yemeni honey bee results were obtained in the TBH, followed by ICB, NB, and finally IBD. Maintaining honey bees in a suitable beehive type is a promising method for saving honey bees lives and enhancing their performance under harsh environmental conditions.

Mass mortalities of angelfish eggs accompanied with very low hatchability were reported in a private ornamental fish farm in Egypt. Examined eggs were badly damaged by water mould that was decisively confirmed as Saprolegnia species. Presumptive identification of the ten retrieved isolates was initially suggestive of Saprolegnia species. Mycological investigations have revealed that only 7 out of 10 isolates were capable of producing sexual stages. Therefore, using molecular tools such as PCR coupled with partial sequencing of inter-transcribed spacer (ITS) gene was one of the most important approaches to distinguish Saprolegnia parasitica from other water moulds. The sequences of ITS gene data derived from eight isolates showed 100% similarity with S. parasitica ATCC90312 sequence and the remaining two isolates were different in one nucleotide (99.9%). The phylogenetic analysis of ITS genes grouped the ten isolates with other S. parasitica in one clad. Further, to control such fungal infection, the efficacy of povidone iodine as surface disinfectant for angelfish and their fertilized eggs were tested. By trial, it was obvious that the obtained post-rinsing results were highly suggestive for the efficacy of povidone iodine as an efficient antifungal disinfectant for both fish and eggs.

Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae (GCSD) has gained special interest of aquatic health experts throughout the past few years due to its interesting veterinary and public health importance. Increasing records of GCSD infections in farmed fishes have been documented through diverse worldwide aquatic habitats in Japan, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan and Brazil. Despite the intraspecies/interspecies dynamic spread of fish GCSD, yet, the genetic basis of its virulence remains unknown. This gap in knowledge is the main reason behind inability to develop a competent vaccine to control the disease in aquatic animals. However, the authors have concluded that the virulence of GCSD is mainly based on its cell surface properties such as high hemagglutination and hydrophobic properties which determine the main adhesive/invasive pathogenic mechanism of the pathogen where GCSD isolates were able to adhere to and invade fish epithelial cell line in vitro. Most recently, the molecular pathogenesis investigations have revealed that, serum opacity factor [SOF], superantigen and streptolysin S genes might be the most important virulence factors that have contributed to the swift propagation of streptococcal infection among aquatic and mammalian species. In conclusion, the current research based review has emphasized the current knowledge gap in epidemiology and control of fish GCSD. To bridge this current gap, a swift future development of high tech/accurate molecular research is highly needed to better understand the pathogenic mechanisms of GCSD.

Avian beta-defensins (avBDs) play significant roles in the innate immune system. The aim of this study was to identify immunoreactive (ir) avBDs proteins in the hen ovarian follicles and the changes in their localization with follicular growth. The ovarian follicles at different growth stages, namely the largest (F1), second and third largest (F2 and F3), prehierarchal small yellow and cortical follicles, were collected. The presence of ir-avBD-8, -10, and -12 were examined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. The three ir-avBDs showed a similar pattern of immunostainings in the follicular tissues at different growth stages. In the granulosa cells, the ir-avBDs were identified in the cortical follicles, whereas their density was reduced in small yellow follicles. The granulosa cells of yellow follicles (F3-F1) showed dense immunolabelings. The interstitial cells showed a faint immunolabeling for avBD-12 but not for avBD-8 and -10 in the cortical follicles, whereas they were weakly stained in the small yellow follicles. Dense immunoreaction products were noticed in the theca interna cells of F3F1 follicles. Western blot analysis showed a single band for each defensin. These results suggest that avBD-8, -10 and -12 proteins are expressed in the specific cells in the follicles, namely interstitial or theca interna cells and granulosa cells, where their amounts are likely increased with follicular growth. These avBDs may play significant roles in the host innate immune system in the follicles.

This paper investigates the integration of optical fibers into an on-chip Fabry–Pérot (FP) resonator to achieve high-quality (Q) factors, which is favorable in sensing applications. Initially designed for high-speed data transmission, optical fibers are now utilized in sensing applications because of their flexibility and sensitivity to optical phenomena. This article focuses on the role of single-mode fibers (SMF) and the geometry of different structures in enhancing light confinement within FP resonators. Two distinct on-chip designs utilizing SMFs are demonstrated, modeled, and experimentally evaluated. One achieves a Q-factor higher than 5200, demonstrating significant improvement in light confinement, while the other maximizes the spectral range between the resonant modes' peaks, maximizing the sensing range through the wavelength shift. This is supported by visualized simulation and coupling efficiencies calculations for fundamental and higher-order modes for comprehensive analysis. Comparison with existing literature is also made, underscoring the advancements achieved by the presented approaches. The findings contribute to the development of microscale refractive index sensing applications, highlighting the vital role of optical fiber integration for high-performance sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]