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Flat slab systems are a popular choice among engineers because of their numerous advantages, such as reduced building height, flexibility in spatial layout by eliminating the need for beams, and cost savings. However, Brittle slab failure under punching shear presents a considerable challenge. The primary objective of this study was to examine how flat slabs respond to PS and conduct an experiment using steel and superelastic Ni-Ti shape memory alloy (SMA) bars as shear reinforcement to assess their effectiveness in improving the PS capacity of flat slab-column connections under vertical Repeated load. Nine half-scale samples were tested, consisting of 1100 × 1100 × 120 mm slabs with a protruding column from one side of 150 × 150 mm and 400 mm height. The factors considered in this research were the type of materials, spacing between stirrups, stabilization method, and inner RFT. After that, finite element analysis by using ABAQUS 6.14 was developed to simulate all the tested specimens. The finite element analysis showed identical results compared to the experimental ones concerning energy absorption, load capacity, absorbed energy, and model stiffness. According to the experimental and finite element analysis findings, the flat slab reinforced with inclined stirrups exhibited a significant increase in punching strength, ranging from 28.8 % to 51.3 % compared with the control specimen. The stiffness increases by 8.5 % when the distance between stirrups is reduced to 0.5d, and inclined-shaped memory alloy stirrups are employed.

Sayed E Wahezi,1 Salah Eldin Mohamed,2 Andrew Lederman,1 Amanda P Beck3 1Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA; 2Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, White Plains, NY, USA; 3Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA Background: Morbidity has been reported as a sequelae of crystalline steroid epidural steroid injections (ESIs), and particulate steroid size, aggregation, and embolization in brain and spinal cord may be the mechanism related to these neurologic effects. Objective: The objective of the study was to examine the aggregation properties of triamcinolone acetonide in commonly used local anesthetics with and without human serum.Setting: This study was conducted in an academic tertiary care center.Hypothesis: Triamcinolone acetonide shows different aggregation characteristics in serum compared to a non-physiologic solution.Design: Triamcinolone acetonide was mixed with lidocaine 1% (first group) and bupivacaine 0.5% (second group) in a 1:1 ratio and then mixed with either distilled water (control group) or serum ex vivo. A pathologist blinded to our hypothesis inspected all solutions under light microscopy with 100× and 400× magnifications. Total number of particulate steroid aggregates and the number of particles forming each aggregate (recorded as single,1 double,2 triple,3 quadruple,4 or large [>4} crystals) were counted. Particle size and aggregate size were measured (in μm). The ratios of quadruple to total aggregates, large to total, and quadruple with large to total aggregates were calculated. Steroid-serum solutions and steroid-sterile water were then compared.Results: Triamcinolone aggregates showed an increased crystal and aggregate size when compared with other steroids. Within the triamcinolone subgroup, the mixture of lidocaine 1% and serum resulted in the largest crystal aggregates.Limitations: Whole blood analysis may have provided a more physiologically accurate model but was not chosen due to poor microscopic analysis. Serum donor variability may also have affected particle characteristics.Conclusion: Fewer large triamcinolone aggregates were noted in the presence of serum when compared to the non-serum control groups. However, when compared to previously studied particulate steroids, it had the largest aggregates when added to serum. Keywords: triamcinolone, betamethasone, aggregation, lidocaine 1%, methylprednisolone

Abstract Cryptography plays consistently an essential role in securing any sort of communications or data broadcast over the network. Since the security of any designed block cipher algorithm is related to its Substitution box (S-box), several efforts have been made by researchers to design a vigorous S-box that maintains flawlessly the cost, performance, and security trade-off. From the literature, we can find a variety of input–output sizes of S-boxes, each of which has its benefits and drawbacks. Therefore, this work introduces a new S-box pattern generation based on the chaotic enhanced logistic map where its chaotic behavior offers good randomness ability, a fact that enhances its unpredictability. In our realization, the intention was the generation of a 5-bit Sbox due to its suitability and cost-effectiveness to be integrated into lightweight cryptosystems. Moreover, the S-box security strength is proved by testing it through numerous cryptanalysis measurements. We can mention non-linearity, bijectivity, linearity, differential cryptanalysis, boomerang attacks resilience, Avalanche effect, and algebraic attacks resilience. The results show that our proposition provides good resistance to the aforementioned attacks and even shows superiority over its 5-bit competitors in terms of non-linearity, differential, Boomerang, and algebraic attack resistance.

Abstract Background Since radical cystectomy is associated with relatively high perioperative morbidity and mortality, this study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of perioperative immune nutrition in radical cystectomy patients on postoperative outcomes including wound healing, postoperative complications, either infectious or non-infectious, and length of hospital stay. Patients and methods This prospective, randomized controlled study was conducted between June 2022 and November 2023. Forty-two patients who had undergone radical cystectomy with ileal conduit were randomized into two groups: the immune nutrition group, which received perioperative immune nutrition, and the conventional group, which did not receive immune nutrition. Patients were followed up for 30 days postoperatively to assess wound healing, infectious and non-infectious complications, and the length of hospital stay. Results Patients who received immune nutrition had significantly lower postoperative infectious complications (19.0 vs 61.9%; P = 0.004), shorter hospital stay (16.57 ± 3.74 vs 20.38 ± 5.97; P = 0.01) and shorter ICU stay (2.60 ± 1.07 vs 7.09 ± 7.50; P = 0.029). The proper wound healing was significantly higher in the immune nutrition group (90.5 vs 52.4%; P = 0.006). However, there was no significant difference between both groups in the rate of non-infectious complications (28.5% vs. 57.1%, P = 0.061). Conclusion Perioperative immune nutrition is associated with improved wound healing, reduced infectious complications, and reduced length of hospital stay. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov, NCT05822518. Registered 1 April 2023—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05822518 .

Abstract Background National Medicines Regulatory Authorities like the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone are responsible for protecting and promoting public health, implementing regulatory standards, and maintaining a supply chain with an assured supply of medical products that are safe, effective, and of good quality. This retrospective study assesses the identification of substandard and falsified medicines, the changes in the functions and key indicators of assessment, and the quality improvement changes of the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone. Methods Data was obtained from 2013 to 2021 records using a data collection tool to collate and review all relevant information to address the different objectives. All data were sourced from the Department of Quality Assurance and the Department of Enforcement and Narcotics at the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone. The review also included, identified substandard and falsified medicines, the World Health Organisation Global benchmarking self-assessment tool, and internal and external audit records of the quality management system of all twelve departments of the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone. Results The study showed marked changes in identifying substandard and falsified medicines by the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone during ISO 9001:2015 implementation (2017- 2020) compared to Pre-ISO 9001:2015 implementation (2013- 2016). Critical functions of the Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone from the assessment of the WHO GBT ML in 2016 and 2021 showed that several indicators had been addressed during ISO 9001:2015 certification with improvement in the level of maturity for the quality management systems and Pharmacovigilance functions. There was also an improvement in identifying non-conformances and a commitment to continuous improvement of processes during ISO 9001:2015 implementation. Conclusions This study revealed that regular checks through standard assessment, internal audits, and standard management review processes that generate follow-up actions, timelines, and a commitment to identifying correction, and corrective actions for non-conformances are essential quality improvement tools for the efficient functioning of an institution (Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone). Our study revealed that commitment to continuous implementation of proper quality management system could significantly improve institutional efficiency, thereby improving service delivery and customer satisfaction.

In about 10%-15% of instances, meconium ileus (MI) is the first sign of cystic fibrosis (CF). If a newborn exhibits signs of intestinal obstruction and does not pass meconium within a short period of time after birth, MI is suspected. The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene (CFTR), which is found on chromosome 7q31, is mutated in CF patients. A premature baby, 5 days old, with clinical signs that were typical of MI. These attempts failed in spite of conservative therapies, such as rectal injection of gastrografin. An ileostomy was made and meconium was manually evacuated after an exploratory laparotomy revealed the presence of a typical MI. At ≥1300 µg/L (reference value ≤1000 µg/L), immunoreactive trypsinogen (IRT) levels were increased, which prompted the start of oral pancreatic enzyme replacement treatment. Discharge at 65 days of age included referrals to primary care and a specialized CF clinic. The baby has since shown normal growth and development. This case highlights the rapid onset of CF in a premature infant with complex MI as the initial clinical presentation.

Abstract Background In pediatric multi-system high risk organs (RO +) Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), failing 1st line treatment has the highest mortality. We aim to present the outcome of failure of 1st line whether due to disease progression (DP) at end of induction or reactivation (REA) after initial better status response. Patients and methods Sixty-seven RO + LCH patients with hemopoietic, hepatic or splenic involvement, treated between 2007 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. The median follow-up (IQR) is 6 years (4–8.8 y).They were subjected to 2 eras of treatment; one with salvage by 2-Cda based regimen (2-CdABR) and another without. Results Of 67 patients, M/F 40/27, median age 1.74 y (0.2–10 y), 42 failed 1st line (62.7%). Of them DP n = 22 (52%) and REA n = 20 (48%). Of those with DP, 9/22 patients received 2-CdABR, where 5 survived in better status. While the remaining 13 did not receive 2-CdABR and all of them died. Otherwise, of those with REA, 12/20 reactivated on RO + mode. Of them, 8/12 received 2-CdABR, where only one survived in better status and the remaining 4 received vinblastine-based regimen,where 2 died and 2 were rescued. RO + 5-year overall survival (OS) was 65% (CI 95% 54 -78) while the event free survival (EFS) 36% (26.3—50.1). The OS of DP 27% (14–54) versus REA 67% (49–93) p 0.004. OS of DP with 2-CdABR 56% (31–97.7) versus 8% without (2–51), p

Reproductive toxicity from food and environmental contaminants has greatly affected human life. Plants are a fundamental source of bioactive components for relieving the harmful effects of pollutants. Hydrazine metabolites pose health threats when they enter the food chain. Croton tiglium (C. tiglium) exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. Silver nanoparticles enhance the chemical stability of C. tiglium. Reproductive toxicity of Azoxymethane (AOM) and anticancer effects of silver C. tiglium were evaluated. Thirty-six adult female rats were divided into six groups (n = 6) and treated with AOM with or without silver C. tiglium nano-extract as pre- and post-treatment. Sexual hormones and proteins were assessed under silver C. tiglium nano-extract and AOM. Histopathologically, AOM caused metaplastic myometrial endometriotic cysts and endometrial metaplasia. Silver C. tiglium in pre- and post-treated rats mitigated the carcinogenic effects of AOM. Immunohistochemically, AOM carcinogenicity was evident through moderate detection of the CK-7 tumor marker in the ovaries and uterus of the AOM-, simultaneous-, and post-treated groups. C. tiglium ameliorated this, with CK-7 slightly expressed in the pre-treated group. Furthermore, C. tiglium alleviated the negative impact on FSH, LH, and 17-β estradiol hormones. In conclusion, Silver C. tiglium nano-extract successfully prevented tumors in the ovaries and uterus of AOM-treated rats.

Maritime transportation plays a crucial role in global trade, as evidenced by the vast amount of containerized cargo transported between ports. In the realm of containerized maritime transport, an increasingly critical challenge lies in the efficient assignment of berths. Effectively organizing operations at small ports is a fundamental element in establishing a more streamlined and dependable overall maritime supply chain, ultimately benefiting larger ports. In this paper, we address the berth allocation problem at small ports and use a mathematical model; aiming to minimize the service time of all ships at the port and thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions. To achieve this, we employed two meta-heuristics; genetic algorithm and tabu search. Results were further optimized using a criterion for the best scheduling of ships, demonstrating their significance through comparison with the FCFS method applied at the port of Annaba in Algeria.

The objective of this study is to examine the preparation of activated carbon with a fibrous structure obtained from olive pomace through a chemical activation process using phosphoric acid (H3PO4) as the activating agent under air at a lower temperature. According to the findings, the most effective conditions to achieve high-performance activated carbon were 22 vol% of H3PO4, a 2-h chemical activation impregnation residence time at 50 °C, and a 500 °C pyrolysis temperature for 1 h. Structural analysis revealed that activated carbons possess highly developed textural and structural properties, resulting in an iodine value of 923 mg/g and a specific surface of 1400 m2/g. In addition to its microporosity, the produced carbon exhibits a highly developed fibrous structure, providing excellent adsorption properties. To confirm these results, SEM, FT-IR, XRF, XRD, Raman, and TGA techniques were employed. The fibrous carbon produced will expand the use of renewable carbon materials for removing various types of contaminants, including organic and inorganic pollutants in water, and numerous other industrial applications.

Lately, the herb's essential oils have received the intense attention of researchers and pharmaceutical agencies. The chemical composition, antioxidant, analgesic activity, anti-hyperpyrexia, and hepatorenal protective effects of the Kleinia anteuphorbium (L.) DC. Essential oil (KAEO) were evaluated. The KAEO was yanked by steam distillation and subjected to a GC/MS system. The antioxidant powers of KAEO were evaluated by DPPH, NO, and FRAP tests. Besides the anti-hyperpyrexia, the analgesic effects were assessed. Moreover, the hepatorenal curative effects were evaluated in a carbon tetrachloride-rat model. Sixty-eight active components were identified by GC/MS. α-pinene was the most dominant monoterpene in KAEO. KAEO showed anti-hyperpyrexia, anti-captive, and great antioxidant powers through DPPH, NO, and FRAP. The oral LD50 of KAEO was 187.5 mg/kg in rats. Furthermore, KAEO treatment succeeded in reliving the adverse effects of CCL4 in rats as a standard toxic model through reliving the hepatic pathological and oxidative stress and restoring the hepatic and renal functions. Overall, the obtained results demonstrated that KAEO might be used as a potential natural medicine to relieve a variety of modern symptoms and hepatorenal disorders associated with oxidative stress.

Utilizing synthetic insecticides to control mosquito populations has many adverse side effects as they can cause environmental pollution and insecticide resistance. Therefore, the search for eco-friendly and effective mosquito control agents has led to the exploration of plant extracts with larvicidal efficacy. In this study, we aimed to explore the larvicidal activity of four Egyptian plant extracts: Rosmarinus officinalis, Melissa officinalis, Cichorium intybus, and Beta vulgaris var. cicla against Culex pipiens and to identify the chemical constituents present in the active extracts. The methanolic extracts of the four plants were prepared and tested against the third instar larvae of C. pipiens using a standard method. The lethal concentrations (LC50 and LC90) were calculated using probit analysis. The active extracts were subjected to ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (UPLC-MS/MS) analysis and the data were processed using the global natural products social molecular networking (GNPS) platform to generate molecular networks and identify the compounds based on spectral similarity and database matching. The methanolic extracts of R. officinalis L. and M. officinalis L. had the highest larvicidal activity, where LC50 values were 9.795 and 26.505 μg/mL, respectively. Their exposure caused a high mortality rate and disrupted the biochemical and physiological parameters (total carbohydrates, total lipids, total protein, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in the body of C. pipiens when compared with Cichorium intybus (Chicory) and Beta vulgaris var. cicla (Chard). The UPLC-MS/MS analysis with the aid of the GNPS platform, revealed the presence of 23 and 41 metabolites from R. officinalis L. and M. officinalis L., respectively. The identified metabolites may act as larvicidal agents by interfering with the physiological or biochemical processes of the mosquito larvae. Overall, the findings suggest that the methanolic extracts of R. officinalis and M. officinalis are potential sources of natural larvicides for mosquito control.

This study critically investigates analysis and control of non-isolated boost three-port DC to DC converter (TPC) for standalone PV system. The converter is controlled such that regulates flow of power from PV array to load and batteries as storage devices. According to PV power, there are four operating modes of operation of converter. Simple reduced-order dynamic models of the converter in various modes of operation are obtained using state-space averaging and small-signal techniques. In this work, the controllers of the closed-loop scheme are designed and only two controllers are used to achieve output voltage regulation, and to extract maximum power from PV array under different operating conditions. Closed-loop system simulation is studied to verify the operation of converter with the designed controllers in different modes. Transition between modes is presented with solar radiation variation and change of connected loads. Experimental verification of control systems at different modes of operation is investigated. The experimental results show that the controllers can regulate the power flow between TPC three ports and regulate output voltage under PV irradiance variation and load changing. The controller shows good performance measures such as maximum settling time of 0.06 s, maximum steady-state ripples of ±0.8 %, and 99.3 % power efficiency.

In this paper an efficient, compact, and cheap power source design for an off-grid PV water pumping system is investigated. The proposed system consists of a PV array, battery, three-port converter (TPC), three-phase voltage source inverter, and induction motor pump. Power is extracted from PV sources during the daytime and used to charge batteries through the three-port converter, then used later to supply load during the nighttime. An intelligent MPPT method is used to obtain PV maximum power; a jellyfish optimization technique with different control algorithms is used to optimize and tune controllers’ parameters among the system. Different modes for the TPC are discussed depending on PV power availability. The proposed system is simulated to assess system performance under different conditions; also the system is efficient with reduced number of components than conventional converters. A complete unified power management over PV input port, battery port, and load port has occurred for all operation modes. At all operation modes, the system has been feeding load without any unmet loads. A real case study in Al-Kharijah oasis is studied and simulation results are listed; for the Dom case DC bus ripple factor voltage percentage equals 0.8%, in the Dim case equals 3%, and in the Siso mode equals 9%.

Abstract Liver serves as a hub for key metabolic pathways such as folate cycle that provides one-carbon units for a network of metabolic reactions. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is a rate limiting enzyme in folate metabolism and thus it is vital for DNA methylation, synthesis and repair [1]. The objective of this study was to evaluate an eventual association between MTHFR polymorphisms C677T (rs1801133) and A1298C (rs1801131) and the susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Egyptian population. Blood samples from patients and controls from Mansoura university hospital were used after signed consent and approval from Medical ethical committee. The two genetic loci were designed for amplification and genotyped by using PCR–RFLP. Our results clarify that, the most important predictors for HCC are T/T genotype of variant C677T and C/C genotype of variant (A1298C) with odds ratio 3.28 and 2.99 respectively. Also, MTHFR variant C677T genotype C/C or T/T combined with MTHFR variant A1298C genotype C/C were associated with an increased risk of HCC, with the OR, 2.6 and 7 respectively. CT genotype of MTHFR variant C677T showed significant difference between HCC grades and C allele of variant C677T showed significant difference in BCLC stages of HCC. Our data indicates that, the two variants (C677T and A1298C) constitute a risk factor for the development of HCC and this could be attributed to the low activities of the enzyme MTHFR that disturb one carbon metabolism and subsequently, DNA synthesis, repair and methylation, thus cellular redox state, growth, and proliferation.

Abstract The relationship between gut microbiota and obesity has recently been an important subject for research as the gut microbiota is thought to affect body homeostasis including body weight and composition, intervening with pro and prebiotics is an intelligent possible way for obesity management. To evaluate the effect of hypo caloric adequate fiber regimen with probiotic supplementation and physical exercise, whether it will have a good impact on health, body composition, and physique among obese Egyptian women or has no significant effect. The enrolled 58 women, in this longitudinal follow-up intervention study; followed a weight loss eating regimen (prebiotic), including a low-carbohydrate adequate-fiber adequate-protein dietary pattern with decreased energy intake. They additionally received daily probiotic supplements in the form of yogurt and were instructed to exercise regularly for 3 months. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, laboratory investigations, and microbiota analysis were obtained before and after the 3 months weight loss program. Statistically highly significant differences in the anthropometry, body composition parameters: and obesity-related biomarkers (Leptin, ALT, and AST) between the pre and post-follow-up measurements at the end of the study as they were all decreased. The prebiotic and probiotic supplementation induced statistically highly significant alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota with increased relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, and Bacteroidetes and decreased relative abundance of Firmicutes and Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes Ratio. Hypo caloric adequate fiber regimen diet with probiotics positively impacts body composition and is effective for weight loss normalizing serum Leptin and AST.

Abstract Introduction Since the beginning of the pandemic, numerous public health measures such as COVID-19 vaccines, vaccine mandates and vaccination certificates have been introduced to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Public opinion and attitudes towards these measures have fluctuated in response to the dynamic political, social, and cultural landscape of the pandemic. Methods We conducted a time-series study consisting of national cross-sectional surveys between November 2021 to March 2022 to evaluate the Canadian public’s attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccine mandates and vaccine certificates. Results When examining public sentiment towards COVID-19 vaccine certificates and proof of vaccination measures, there was a shift in responses over time. The proportion of participants “strongly supporting” these measures decreased from 66.0 to 43.1% between W25(Capacity Limits), −W32 (Mask Mandate Removed), whereas “strongly oppose” was the second most common response and rose from 15.9 to 20.6% during this same time period. Concurrently, when examining participants views surrounding mandates, many participants believed that their province was reopening at “about the right pace”, which remained relatively stable over time (33.0–35.4%) between W28 (Emergency Act)–W32 (Mask Mandate Removed). Conclusion Our study’s findings on the public’s attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccine mandates and vaccine certificates in Canada may aid to guide and streamline the implementation of future similar public health interventions. Future research should include extended follow-up and a more comprehensive examination of trust in government institutions and polarized perspectives on vaccine mandates.

Abstract Background In sports sciences, normative data serve as standards for specific physical performance attributes, enhancing talent identification within a specific population. The aim of this study was to provide standard data for Agility-15 m, Ball-15 m tests, and skill index, considering maturation level, specifically age at peak height velocity (PHV). The study also investigated the relationship between relative performances in these tests and anthropometrics, jumping (squat jump [SJ], countermovement jump [CMJ]), and sprinting abilities (S-5 m, S-10 m, S-20 m, S-30 m) in young soccer players. Methods The study involved 647 soccer players aged 11–18 years, categorized into three groups: pre-PHV, circum-PHV, and post-PHV. Statistical analysis was conducted using analysis of variance and Bonferroni post hoc testing to detect variations among maturation groups, and Pearson’s correlation test to examine the relationship between factors. Results Agility-15 m and ball-15 m performances among maturity groups showed significant differences (p

In recent years, porous ceramics have been widely studied because of their excellent technological properties. The intrinsic technological characteristics depend on the forming process and the application for which the materials are intended. A clay raw material (75 mass%) which is rich in melting oxides and waste peanut shells (25 mass%) were used to manufacture porous ceramics for the removal of arsenic from borehole water in Burkina Faso. A borehole water analysis shows a concentration of arsernic of 39 μg L−1 above the WHO standard. The porous ceramics were obtained from samples shaped by unidirectionnal pressing and after sintering at 900 °C (MKOR9) or 1100 °C (MKOR11). Unlike MKOR9 materials, MKOR11 materials consist of 27 % mullite phases. MKOR9 and MKOR11 porous materials presented a diametrical compression stress to rupture greater than 0.15 MPa, as recommended in the literature for ceramic filters. The obtained permeability value of MKOR11 ceramic materials (53,802 L/h.m2.bar) is much higher than that of MKOR9 (18596 L/h m2 bar), although its open porosity (61 %) is lower than that of MKOR9 materials (65 %). The removal rate obtained with MKOR9 is 24 % compared to 95 % for MKOR11. MKOR11 filters almost completely reduce arsenic concentration below the WHO limit values, which is not the case for MKOR9 materials. The adsorption kinetics and thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption process is the chemisorption. This work has shown that MKOR11 ceramic filters have a very impressive effectiveness, and they could be manufactured for the benefit of the remote population.

ABSTRACTThis scoping review examines the role of digital solutions in active, participant-centered surveillance of adverse events following initial release of COVID-19 vaccines. The goals of this paper were to examine the existing literature surrounding digital solutions and technology used for active, participant centered, AEFI surveillance of novel COVID-19 vaccines approved by WHO. This paper also aimed to identify gaps in literature surrounding digital, active, participant centered AEFI surveillance systems and to identify and describe the core components of active, participant centered, digital surveillance systems being used for post-market AEFI surveillance of WHO approved COVID-19 vaccines, with a focus on the digital solutions and technology being used, the type of AEFI detected, and the populations under surveillance. The findings highlight the need for customized surveillance systems based on local contexts and the lessons learned to improve future vaccine monitoring and pandemic preparedness.

In this paper, the structural performance of exterior fly-ash based concrete beam-column joints reinforced with hybrid glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) and steel bars was studied, to inspect the hybrid concept efficiency under lateral loads. This paper studied two mixes of concrete, normal strength concrete (NC) and fly-ash based concrete (FC), a 20% replacement ratio of the cement weight with superplasticizer is considered in FC mix, which is considered as an environmental-friendly and cost-effective alternative to ordinary Portland cement. Ten joints were tested under the effect of monotonic lateral load experimentally. The studied joints were divided into two groups based on their concrete type, in each group, five joints with different GFRP to steel ratios “from 0% to 100% with an increment of 25%” were tested. The obtained results showed that the fly ash presence in concrete resulted in an average increase in both ductility and load capacity of 18% and 28.3%, respectively. Also, the average total energy absorption increased by 35%, and the average initial and post-yield stiffness increased by 34% and 41%, respectively. Moreover, the ductility index for each model was obtained, the FC model with 75% GFRP to steel ratio achieved the maximum ductility index, so it was considered as the optimum one. After that, the finite element analysis FEA was utilized to study the performance of the tested beam-column joints. The FEA showed identical results compared to the experimental ones concerning energy absorption, load capacity, and model stiffness. Finally, using FEA, a deep parametric study on FC models reinforced with GFRP to steel bars ranging from 60% to 90% was performed to obtain the optimum GFRP to steel reinforcement ratio. Through the performed parametric study, it was found that the optimum range of the reinforcement ratio was 68% to 82%. According to this research, the usage of fly ash in concrete increased RC beam-column joints' efficiency especially when provided with hybrid GFRP and steel reinforcement, in addition to the important environmental impact achieved through the recycling process. It was recommended to utilize the composite reinforcement ranging between 60% to 75% GFRP to steel bars in the presence of fly ash-based concrete for the beam-column joints.

Precision Medicine is being increasingly used in the developed world to improve health care. While several Precision Medicine (PM) initiatives have been launched worldwide, their implementations have proven to be more challenging particularly in low- and middle-income countries. To address this issue, the “Personalized Medicine in North Africa” initiative (PerMediNA) was launched in three North African countries namely Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco. PerMediNA is coordinated by Institut Pasteur de Tunis together with the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, with the support of Institut Pasteur in France. The project is carried out along with Institut Pasteur d’Algérie and Institut Pasteur du Maroc in collaboration with national and international leading institutions in the field of PM including Institut Gustave Roussy in Paris. PerMediNA aims to assess the readiness level of PM implementation in North Africa, to strengthen PM infrastructure, to provide workforce training, to generate genomic data on North African populations, to implement cost effective, affordable and sustainable genetic testing for cancer patients and to inform policy makers on how to translate research knowledge into health products and services. Gender equity and involvement of young scientists in this implementation process are other key goals of the PerMediNA project.In this paper, we are describing PerMediNA as the first PM implementation initiative in North Africa. Such initiatives contribute significantly in shortening existing health disparities and inequities between developed and developing countries and accelerate access to innovative treatments for global health.

Despite the emergence of numerous Deep Learning (DL) models for breast cancer detection via mammograms, there is a lack of evidence about their robustness to perform well on new unseen mammograms. To fill this gap, we introduce StethoNet, a DL-based framework that consists of multiple Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) trained models for classifying benign and malignant tumors. StethoNet was trained on the Chinese Mammography Database (CMMD), and tested on unseen images from CMMD, as well as on images from two independent datasets, i.e., the Vindr-Mammo and the INbreast datasets. To mitigate domain-shift effects, we applied an effective entropy-based domain adaptation technique at the preprocessing stage. Furthermore, a Bayesian hyperparameters optimization scheme was implemented for StethoNet optimization. To ensure interpretable results that corroborate with prior clinical knowledge, attention maps generated using Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (GRADCAM) were compared with Regions of Interest (ROIs) identified by radiologists. StethoNet achieved impressive Area Under the receiver operating characteristics Curve (AUC) scores: 90.7% (88.6%-92.8%), 83.9% (76.0%-91.8%), and 85.7% (82.1%-89.4%) for the CMMD, INbreast, and Vindr-Mammo datasets, respectively. These results surpass the current state of the art and highlight the robustness and generalizability of StethoNet, scaffolding the integration of DL models into breast cancer mammography screening workflows.

The study explores the feasibility of a new all-steel buckling restrained brace (BRB) with the double pre-tensioning system as an alternative to conventional concentrically braced frames by using finite element method (ABAQUS program), And to verify modeling, use U-V1 specimen results and compare them with test results. The restraining element in an all-steel BRB is built from a rectangular plate with a double cross arm and cables, making it easy to fabricate, inspect, and replace after a severe earthquake. Numerical analyses were conducted on four groups: first group of specimens using dynamic loading to achieve the minimum thickness for stable hysteretic behavior and high efficiency for BRB, and three groups of specimens using monotonic loading to achieve the best pre-tensioning forces value in steel 37, 44 and 52 for greater efficient use of all steel BRB. The results showed a 66% improvement in bearing capacity, with the external restraining case thickness reduced to 20 mm, making it lightweight, economical, and easy to maintain. The specimens with a pre-tensioning force of 70 kN, 50 kN and 40 kN providing a 31%, 51% and 73.2 % for steel 37, 44 and 52 respectively over than the design specimen without pre-tensioning system.

Three novel series of N-methylsulfonylindole derivatives 3a&b, 4a–e, and 5a–e were synthesised. Different biological activities of the synthesised compounds were studied. Antimicrobial activity showed that, compounds 4b, 4e and 5d had selective antibacterial activity against the Gram-negative bacteria, Salmonella enterica and/or E. coli. The anti-oxidant activity of the synthesised compounds was evaluated by DPPH radical scavenging activity. In vitro anti-inflammatory activity was estimated. Compounds 4d, 4e, 5b, and 5d showed the highest anti-inflammatory activity. The COX-1, COX-2 and 5-LOX inhibitory activities were measured using enzyme immune assay (EIA) kits. Due to the dual COX-2/5-LOX inhibitory activity of compound 5d, its cardiovascular profile was determined by measuring cardiac biomarkers (LDH, CK-MB, and Tn-I). Besides, the histopathological study of the heart muscle and stomach were examined for the most active COX-2 inhibitors 4e and 5d. Finally, a molecular modelling study and pharmacokinetic properties were obtained using different computational methods.

Background/Objectives: Marrubium vulgare L. (M. vulgare), the white horehound, is well known for treating inflammation-related diseases. Methods: In this context, we investigated the efficacy of M. vulgare ingredients in treating Alzheimer’s disease using various in vitro and in silico antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cholinesterase, and anti-tyrosinase mechanisms. Results: In our results, sixty-one components were tentatively identified using gas and liquid chromatography (GC-MS and LC-MSn) and categorized as hydrocarbons, fatty acids, and polyphenolics. The extract inhibited linoleic oxidation with an IC50 value of 114.72 µg/mL, captured iron (Fe2+) ions with an IC50 value of 164.19 µg/mL, and displayed reducing power. In addition, the extract showed radical-scavenging ability towards DPPH•, NO•, ABTS•+, and H2O2 assays compared to L-ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene. The DPPH• was scavenged by 77.62% at 100 µg/mL, and NO•, ABTS•+, and H2O2 were scavenged with IC50 values of 531.66, 117.51, and 143.10 µg/mL, respectively. M. vulgare also exhibited discriminating anti-inflammatory potency against cyclooxygenase (COX-2) with IC50 values of 619.15 µg/mL compared to celecoxib (p > 0.05). Notably, three Alzheimer’s biomarkers, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and tyrosinase were significantly inhibited. The molecular docking study supposed that the phenylethanoid glycosides of samioside and forsythoside B inhibited AChE and tyrosinase enzymes with low binding affinities of −9.969 and −8.804 kcal/mol, respectively. Marruboside was a proper inhibitor of COX and BChE enzymes with a binding score of −10.218 and −10.306 kcal/mol, respectively. Conclusions: M. vulgare extract showed significant inhibitory actions, which suggest that it could have a promising potential as an anti-Alzheimer agent.

This work evaluates the resistance to chemical attack and thermal shock of porcelain formulated from local raw materials from Burkina Faso for their validation in real use. A kaolinitic clay, a pegmatite and sand were used for the formulation of porcelain tiles. Some samples were shaped by casting into porous molds and sintered at a temperature of 1240 °C. The average heating rate is 10 °C/min up to the final given temperature. These porcelains were immersed to a depth of 25 mm in test solutions and kept closed at 20 °C for 12 days. Six concentrations of test solutions were prepared to perform these tests: ammonium chloride (100 g/L); hydrochloric acid (3% and 18% by volume); lactic acid (5% by volume); citric acid (100 g/L) and alkali KOH (30 g/L and 100 g/L). The test showed that these porcelains are resistant to chemical attacks with insignificant mass variations ranging from −0.030 to 0.053 wt%. The results of the thermal shock test show that formulated porcelains are resistant to the brutal variation of temperature. The results obtained qualify the porcelains for industrial and real use.

Abstract Bone is created by osteoblasts that secrete osteoid after which an ordered texture emerges, followed by mineralization. Plywood geometries are a hallmark of many trabecular and cortical bones, yet the origin of this texturing in vivo has never been shown. Nevertheless, extensive in vitro work revealed how plywood textures of fibrils can emerge from acidic molecular cholesteric collagen mesophases. This study demonstrates in sheep, which is the preferred model for skeletal orthopaedic research, that the deeper non‐fibrillar osteoid is organized in a liquid‐crystal cholesteric geometry. This basophilic domain, rich in acidic glycosaminoglycans, exhibits low pH which presumably fosters mesoscale collagen molecule ordering in vivo. The results suggest that the collagen fibril motif of twisted plywood matures slowly through self‐assembly thermodynamically driven processes as proposed by the Bouligand theory of biological analogues of liquid crystals. Understanding the steps of collagen patterning in osteoid‐maturation processes may shed new light on bone pathologies that emerge from collagen physico‐chemical maturation imbalances.

Abstract Background The pediatric pulmonary multisystem Langerhans cell histiocytosis (PPM LCH) is associated with either low risk or high risk organ(s). The nodulo-cystic lung lesions although pathognomonic, yet are very variable in severity and remain a source of controversy in certifying pulmonary LCH diagnosis. The study aimed to examine the prognostic value of clinical respiratory manifestations and radiological lung lesions severity. This is through associating a CT chest triad of bilateral, extensive and diffuse lesions. It is a retrospective study of 350 LCH patients who received systemic treatment at Children’s Cancer Hospital Egypt during the period from 2007 to 2020. Results Sixty-seven patients (67/350–19.1%) had PPM LCH at presentation. Severe lung lesions were present in 24 of them. The median follow-up period was 61 months (IQR: 3.4–8.3). The 5-year overall survival (OS) and event free survival (EFS) was 89% and 56.6% respectively. The EFS, for severe radiological lesions triad was 38% ± 20.7 versus 66% ± 16.2 for non-severe lesions triad p 0.002, while for presence of chest X-ray changes 27% ± 22.344 versus absence of chest X ray changes 66% ± 14.7 p 0.001, for clinical respiratory manifestations 13% ± 13.9 versus none 62% ± 22.9 p

Dans Rue du pardon, Mahi Binebine nous donne à lire un conte merveilleux où l’enfant affronte la laideur de son milieu impitoyable et la monstruosité de ses parents défaillants et coupables d’une double transgression. Ces épreuves transforment le conte en roman et l’enfant exposé (abandonné à son sort) en être émancipé. Après l’expérience du rejet et l’épreuve traumatisante du viol, l’héroïne, sauvée et guidée par la diva Serghinia, trouve dans les arts de la scène (la danse et le chant) un refuge salvateur et, surtout, une voix qui lui permet de dire et d’exorciser l’abjection. Le corps féminin maltraité est resculpté pour devenir une œuvre d’art vivante. Comme dans d’autres romans, notamment L’Ombre du poète, Terre d’ombre brûlée et Le Seigneur vous le rendra, Mahi Binebine, dans Rue du pardon, met l’artiste au centre de la représentation. Cet article essaie de montrer comment le romancier, réhabilitant la chikha, une figure artistique féminine du patrimoine populaire marocain, promeut un féminisme discret où l’art devient un moyen d’accès à la liberté et une dénonciation de l’hypocrisie sociale.

Culture in different countries has its own characteristics, whether local or global, and these characteristics shape and control human behavior towards everything in life. Different cultures are generally similar and differ in details. Where cultural design employs cultural elements to create products that are widely sold around the world, how can cultural design be integrated into product design methodologies to explore new areas in the design process and gain deep experiences that are relevant in the labor market. The cultural design approach is used by many companies to develop products based on consumer cultures.Art activities are the main cultural features. Art activities include many forms such as painting, sculpture, writing, artifacts and others. Art activities are values that can inspire designers imagination and a new and different vision to link culture with modern design.Need to Design "Egyptian Cultural Features" in Modern Products Ancient Egyptian culture provides a good example of applying cultural features to design while retaining meaningful cultural value. This paper explains the cultural features of the ancient Egyptian culture, and how to transform these features into the design of a new cultural product that can suit the contemporary market. Thus, cultural products can extend the heritage and traditional values of consumer culture and increase the sense of spiritual essence in human life.

Abstract Silicon (Si) and/or proline (Pro) are natural supplements that are considered to induce plants' stress tolerance against various abiotic stresses. Sweet corn (Zea mays L. saccharata) production is severely afflicted by salinity stress. Therefore, two field tests were conducted to evaluate the potential effects of Si and/or Pro (6mM) used as seed soaking (SS) and/or foliar spray (FS) on Sweet corn plant growth and yield, physio-biochemical attributes, and antioxidant defense systems grown in a saline (EC = 7.14dS m−1) soil. The Si and/or Pro significantly increased growth and yield, photosynthetic pigments, free proline, total soluble sugars (TSS), K+/Na+ratios, relative water content (RWC), membrane stability index (MSI), α-Tocopherol (α-TOC), Ascorbate (AsA), glutathione (GSH), enzymatic antioxidants activities and other anatomical features as compared to controls. In contrast, electrolytes, such as SS and/or FS under salt stress compared to controls (SS and FS using tap water) were significantly decreased. The best results were obtained when SS was combined with FS via Si or Pro. These alterations are brought about by the exogenous application of Si and/or Pro rendering these elements potentially useful in aiding sweet corn plants to acclimate successfully to saline soil.

Abstract Background Globally, COVID-19 vaccines have proven to be instrumental for promoting population health by reducing illness from SARS-CoV-2. Vaccine certificates emerged as a potentially promising solution for encouraging vaccination and facilitating the safe reopening of society, however, they were controversial due to criticisms of infringing upon individual rights. While there is extensive literature describing the ethical, legal, and public health implications of vaccine certificates, there is currently a gap in knowledge about the association of vaccine certificates on vaccine uptake during the COVID-19 pandemic and barriers and facilitators to their use. Objectives The objectives of this scoping review are to (i) describe the existing literature on the association of vaccine certificates on the rates of COVID-19 vaccine uptake across several countries and (ii) describe the intrinsic and extrinsic barriers or facilitators that moderate this relationship. Methods We conducted a scoping review based on PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRSIMA-ScR) guidelines. We searched three bibliographic databases (APA PsychInfo, Embase Classic + Embase, OVID-Medline) and preprint severs during the first week of July 2023. Three reviewers independently screened the studies based on pre-specified eligibility criteria and performed quality assessments of the primary literature and data extraction. Results Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. 14 or these were surveys and 2 were modelling studies. The majority documented that vaccine certificates were significantly associated with increased rates of COVID-19 vaccine uptake (n = 12), motivated by factors such as travel/employer requirements, influence from the government/peers, and trust in the safety, efficacy, and science behind COVID-19 vaccines. Three studies had non-significant or mixed findings. Only one study found a significant decrease in COVID-19 vaccine uptake, motivated by pervasive distrust in the QR code-based system of digital vaccine certificates in Russia. Quality of survey studies was generally high. Conclusion Our findings provide insights into the existing literature on vaccine certificates association with vaccine uptake in several different jurisdictions and barriers and facilitators to their uptake. This information can be used to guide future examinations of the implementation of vaccine certificates and more effective implementations.

Abstract Background Hemodialysis (HD) patients commonly receive polypharmacy leading to increased likelihood of drug related problems (DRPs) and poor quality of life. Medication Therapy Management (MTM) services discover and resolve DRPs and may specifically improve Medication-burden Quality of life (MBQoL) in HD patients. We aimed to assess the effect of MTM services on DRPs and MBQoL among HD patients. Methods A prospective pre-post study was conducted on 104 patients in an HD unit in Alexandria, Egypt. MBQoL was assessed at baseline and after three months of MTM sessions, using the Arabic, validated version of the Patient Reported Outcomes Measure of Pharmaceutical Therapy (PROMPT) questionnaire. Cohen’s d test and multiple linear regression were used to assess the effect size of MTM and the factors affecting MBQoL, respectively. DRPs, adverse events and adherence were also monitored. Results MBQoL improved significantly after the implementation of MTM (Cohen’s d=0.88, p < 0.01) with the largest effect size in the “medicine information and relation with healthcare providers” domain. DRPs decreased significantly after MTM implementation (11.97 ± 4.65 versus 7.63 ± 3.85 per patient, p

Abstract Background Tecothane (medical grade of polyurethane) is strongly involved in the fabrication of metallic and polymeric-based medical devices (e.g., catheters and stents) as they can withstand cardiac cycle-related forces without deforming or failing, and they can mimic tissue behavior. The main problem is microbial contamination and formation of pathogenic biofilms on such solid surfaces within the human body. Accordingly, our hypothesis is the coating of tecothane outer surfaces with antibacterial agents through the electro-deposition or chemical grafting of anti-biofilm agents onto the stent and catheter surfaces. Results Tecothane is grafted with itaconic acid for cross-linking the polyethyleneimine (PEI) as the protective-active layer. Accordingly, the grafting of poly-itaconic acid onto the Tecothane was achieved by three different methods: wet-chemical approach, electro-polymerization, or by using plasma treatment. The successful modifications were verified using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, grafting percentage calculations, electrochemical, and microscopic monitoring of biofilm formation. The grafting efficiency of itaconic acid was over 3.2% (w/w) at 60 ℃ after 6 h of the catheter chemical modification. Bio-electrochemical signals of biofilms have been seriously reduced after chemical modification because of the inhibition of biofilm formation (for both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus) over a period of 9 days. Conclusion Chemical functionalization of the polyurethane materials with the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm agents led to a significant decrease in the formation of pathogenic biofilms. This promising proof-concept will open the door to explore further surface protection with potential anti-biofilm agents providing better and sustainable productions of stents and catheters biomaterials. Graphical Abstract

The museum is a building with a distinctive visual mass, which must have its own symbolism that expresses society and content, In addition, the museum must take into account the global trend in applying sustainability standards. In this research, the question is about the possibility of achieving an evaluation model that can be made to measure the impact of applying environmental sustainability and symbolism of formation in museums. Three steps were taken to discuss this question:The first step was to identify the elements and characteristics of formation in museums, the principles of environmental sustainability, then the types and elements of symbolism.The second step was to study the effect of sustainability and symbolism on the elements of formation in museums.From the previous two steps, an evaluation model was proposed to measure the impact of applying environmental sustainability and symbolism of formation in museums.The third step was to test the evaluation model by using it to analyze some international museum samples that have obtained a certificate from one of the global sustainability systems. Finally, the research has proven that an evaluation model can be made to measure the impact of environmental sustainability and symbolism of formation in museums.

Dinoflagellates belonging to the genus Hematodinium are key parasites of marine crustaceans, primarily decapods. In this study, we document the first report of H. perezi Chatton & Poisson, 1930 on the African Atlantic coast. This is also the first parasite record in the invasive non-native Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, 1896 in Morocco. Specimens of C. sapidus were sampled in winter 2023 from two Ramsar sites on the Moroccan Atlantic, namely Merja Zerga and Oualidia Lagoons, and were screened to detect the presence of parasites in their hemolymph. Based on staining fresh hemolymph smears, we did not detect Hematodinium in any of the 36 investigated individuals (20 and 16 from Merja Zerga and Oualidia Lagoons, respectively), probably due to methodological artifacts. The PCR-based method was revealed to be more accurate in diagnosing the Hematodinium parasite. It showed that at Merja Zerga Lagoon, 13 individuals of C. sapidus were infected by the parasite (prevalence: 65%) in comparison to four at Oualidia Lagoon (25%). Genetic analysis, based on the ITS1 rDNA gene from Hematodinium, confirmed the sequences as being those of Hematodinium perezi.

Simone de Beauvoir et Latifa Al-Azzyat sont des figures féminines intellectuelles marquantes du XXe siècle. Leurs œuvres réunissent en même temps une esthétique particulière, où la peinture du moi joue un rôle emblématique se prolongeant dans une écriture de soi, et dans un engagement intellectuel et politique sans compromis. Elles ont tenté de rompre le silence par le biais de l'écriture tout en exposant leurs points de vue sur l'amour, le mariage, le divorce, le métier, la société, l'écriture... L'article s'intéresse au rôle majeur que jouent la mémoire et la rupture dans Mémoires d'une fille rangée (1958) de Simone de Beauvoir et Perquisition! Feuillets personnels (1992) de Latifa Al-Azzyat. L'étude de ces deux romans engagés devrait nous montrer, par le biais de la mémoire et de la rupture, leurs directions divergentes ou convergentes. A partir des considérations de Philippe Lejeune sur l'autobiographie et le récit ainsi que celles de Georges May, nous examinerons comment s'inscrit dans les deux récits, par tout un réseau de thèmes, la peinture de cette double conquête (identité et écriture). تعد كل من الكاتبة الفرنسية " سيمون دى بوفوار" ، والكاتبة المصرية " لطيفة الزيات" من الوجوه النسائية المثقفة في القرن العشرين. لقد جمع إنتاجهما الأدبي جمالية خاصة ، حيث لعب تمثيل الذات دورا رمزيا وممتدا في الكتابة ، وفي التزام فكري وسياسي بدون مجازفة. لقد حاولتا كسر الصمت الذي فرضه عليهما المجتمع ، وذلك من خلال الكتابة مطالبتين في حقهما في الكتابة ، والتعبير من خلال الكتابة عن وجهات نظرهما تجاه )الحب ، والزواج ، والطلاق، والمهنة(، ورأيهما في المجتمع ، وعملية الإبداع. يهتم هذا البحث بدراسة الدور الأساسي الذي لعبته كل من الذاكرة والقطيعة في العملين الأدبيين : "مذكرات فتاة عاقلة " " لسيمون دى بوفوار" والتي تم نشرها في عام 1958، ورواية "حملة تفتيش أوراق رسمية"" للطيفة الزيات " ، الصادرة في عام 1992 . وسوف نرى في هذين العملين الأدبيين : كيف أكدت الكاتبتان على هويتهما ؟ ، وكيف استردتا حقهما الطبيعي في الكتابة ؟. سوف يُدرس ويُبحث كل هذا على ضوء تصورات وآراء " فيليب لوجون " عن السيرة الذاتية والحكاية ، وأيضا آراء " جورج ماى ".

Abstract Background Carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative organisms (CRGNO) are a growing threat. We aimed in our study to determine the genotype of carbapenemases at Beni-Suef University Hospital by using newly introduced lateral flow assays in comparison with molecular techniques and test the effectiveness of ceftazidime/avibactam against them. Methods Screening for carbapenemase production was done by mSuperCARBA (CHROMagar™ company). Genotypic characterization was done using 3 different kits of lateral flow assays: the NG-Test CARBA5 assay (NG Biotech, Guipry, France), RESIST-3 O.K.N. (Coris BioConcept, Belgium) and Carbapenem-resistant K.N.I.V.O Detection K-Set (Beijing Gold Mountain river Tech Development Co, China), whereas genotypic characterization was done for blaVIM blaIMP, blaKPC, blaOXA-48, and blaNDM by PCR. Results The high prevalence of CRGNO in Beni-Suef University Hospital (29%) was dominated by Klebsiella pneumonia (83.3%) harboring OXA-48 (92%). Lateral flow immunoassays showed high sensitivity and specificity for each type of carbapenemases in comparison with PCR. Conclusion The coexistence of multiple carbapenemases genes in the same isolate increased resistance to new therapeutic options, e.g., CZA/AVI. Proper implementation of isolation measures in health care facilities can render the spread of CRGNO.

Article accepted. The article will be published here soon. Pending final quality checks.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the environmental endocrine disruptors, due to its chemical stability it exists in abundant concentrations in water and soil consequently accumulating in the food chain and causing many endocrine-related health problems. So far, studies on the effects of BPA on marine invertebrates have focused on acute toxicity, endocrine regulation, reproduction, and development. However, fewer studies have been conducted on marine benthos. The current study aimed to detect the accumulation of BPA and its impact on tissue structure, antioxidant capacity, and immune indexes in marine worm, Urechis unicinctus. U. unicinctus, as a common marine benthic animal, were exposed to different concentrations of BPA. Blood cells and intestinal tract were taken for tissue structure inspection, and supernatant of the coelomic fluid was collected for oxidative and antioxidant biomarkers. Results showed that the accumulation of BPA in muscles of U. unicinctus tended to increase with exposure time. BPA induced a rise in H2O2 and MDA content, and altered the activities of CAT, T-SOD, GST, LSZ and ACP, weaken the immune system functions. Moreover, pathological observation showed that BPA caused severe histopathology in the respiratory intestine, stomach, and midgut. These results will be helpful to understand the response mechanism of U. unicinctus under BPA exposure and provide a reference for controlling the aquaculture conditions and marine water quality of U. unicinctus.

Introduction To investigate the short-term effect of Maitland mobilization on lumbar proprioception, pain intensity, and functional disability in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNSLBP). Methods Fifty-four subjects aged 18–30 years old with CNSLBP were randomly assigned into two groups. The experimental group received a selected exercise program (stretching, strengthening, and lumbar stabilization exercises) and Maitland posterior-anterior vertebral mobilization three sessions /week, whereas the control group received exercises only. Lumbar repositioning error (LRE), pain intensity, and function disability were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer, visual analog scale (VAS), and the Arabic version of the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), respectively. Measurements were taken at baseline and four weeks after intervention. Results Within-group analysis showed a significant decrease in LRE, VAS, and ODI after treatment ( p < 0.001). Between-group analysis revealed a significant difference between groups post-intervention favoring the Maitland mobilization group ( p < 0.001) where the mean differences at 95% confidence interval were (–2.10, –1.36) for LRE, (–34.53, –25.61) for VAS and (–9, –7.07) for ODI. Conclusions Maitland lumbar mobilization is effective in improving lumbar proprioception, pain intensity, and functional disability in patients with CNSLBP.

Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) have been produced by low-dose (1–20 kGy) gamma irradiation of silver nitrate in the presence of graphene-based material (graphene oxide or electrochemically exfoliated graphene). The large surface area of those graphene-based materials combined with the presence of oxygen-containing functional groups on the surface provided successful nucleation and growth of Ag nanoparticles, which resulted in a uniformly covered graphene surface. The obtained Ag nanoparticles were spherical with a predominant size distribution of 10–50 nm for graphene oxide and 10–100 nm for electrochemically exfoliated graphene. The photothermal efficiency measurement showed a temperature increase upon exposure to a 532 nm laser for all samples and the highest photothermal efficiency was measured for the graphene oxide/Ag NP sample prepared at 5 kGy. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding efficiency measurements showed poor shielding for the composites prepared with graphene oxide. On the other hand, all composites prepared with electrochemically exfoliated graphene showed EMI shielding to some extent, and the best performance was measured for the samples prepared at 5 and 20 kGy doses.

Computational simulations of three-dimensional flow around a NACA 0018 wing with an aspect ratio of AR=5 were carried out by using the Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) equations with the Shear-Stress Transport turbulence model closure. Simulations were performed to capture aerodynamic stall hysteresis by using the developed pseudo-transient continuation (PTC) method based on a dual-time step approach in CFD OpenFOAM code. The flow was characterized by incompressible Mach number M=0.12 and moderate Reynolds number Re=0.67×106. The results obtained indicate the presence of noticeable aerodynamic hysteresis in the static dependencies of the force and moment coefficients, as well as the manifestation of bi-stable flow separation patterns, accompanied by the development of asymmetry in the stall zone. The URANS simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental data obtained for the NACA 0018 finite-aspect-ratio wing in the low-speed wind tunnel under the same test conditions. A new phenomenological bifurcation model of aerodynamic stall hysteresis under static and dynamic conditions is formulated and is proven to be able to closely match the experimental data.

In this paper, a 3D conformal meta-lens designed for manipulating electromagnetic beams via height-to-phase control is proposed. The structure consists of a 40 × 20 array of tunable unit cells fabricated using 3D printing, enabling full 360° phase compensation. A novel automatic synthesizing method (ASM) with an integrated optimization process based on genetic algorithm (GA) is adopted here to create the meta-lens. Simulation using CST Microwave Studio and MATLAB reveals the antenna’s beam deflection capability by adjusting phase compensations for each unit cell. Various beam scanning techniques are demonstrated, including single-beam, dual-beam generation, and orbital angular momentum (OAM) beam deflection at different angles of 0°, 10°, 15°, 25°, 30°, and 45°. A 3D-printed prototype of the dual-beam feature has been fabricated and measured for validation purposes, with good agreement between both simulation and measurement results, with small discrepancies due to 3D printing’s low resolution and fabrication errors. This meta-lens shows promise for low-cost, high-gain beam deflection in mm-wave wireless communication systems, especially for sensing applications, with potential for wider 2D beam scanning and independent beam deflection enhancements.