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Background: A major worldwide health issue is the rising frequency of resistance of bacteria.Drug combinations are a winning strategy in fighting resistant bacteria and might help in protecting the existing drugs.Monolaurin is natural compound extracted from coconut oil and has a promising antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus.aureus. This study aims to examine the efficacy of monolaurin both individually and in combination with β-lactam antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus isolates. Methods: Agar dilution method was used for determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of monolaurin against S.aureus isolates. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to detect morphological changes in S.aureus after treatment with monolaurin. Conventional and Real-time Polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were performed to detect of beta-lactamase (blaZ) gene and its expressional levels after monolaurin treatment. Combination therapy of monolaurin and antibiotics was assessed through fractional inhibitory concentration and time-kill method. Results: The antibacterial activity of monolaurin was assessed on 115 S.aureus isolates, the MIC of monolaurin were 250 to 2000 µg/ml. SEM showed cell elongation and swelling in the outer membrane of S.aureus in the prescence of 1xMIC of monolaurin. blaZ gene was found in 73.9% of S.aureus isolates. RT-PCR shows a significant decrease in of blaZ gene expression at 250 and 500 µg/ml of monolaurin. Synergistic effects were detected through FIC method and time killing curve. Combination therapy established a significant reduction on the MIC value. The collective findings from the antibiotic combinations with monolaurin indicated synergism rates ranging from 83.3% to 100%.In time-kill studies, combination of monolaurin and β-lactam antibiotics produced a synergistic effect. Conclusion: This study showed that monolaurin may be a natural antibacterial agent against S. aureus, and may be an outstanding modulator of β-lactam drugs. The concurrent application of monolaurin and β-lactam antibiotics, exhibiting synergistic effects against S. aureus in vitro, holds promise as potential candidates for the development of combination therapies that target particularly, patients with bacterial infections that are nearly incurable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular nuclear medicine (NM) imaging examinations expose patients to extremely high absorbed doses of ionizing radiation, which necessitates extensive efforts to reduce the doses without compromising the quality of images. This study aims to assess patients' radiation doses to patients and public exposure in Cardiac rest and stress single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scans. The patients' exposure was calculated for 21 patients using the administered activity (AA, MBq). (GE SPECT) was the device used for all patients. AA (MBq) mean and range were 370 for Rest and 1110 for Stress. The average range of the dose rate was 1.59 (0.67–2.34) mR/h for rest and 7.29 (4.2–9.98) mR/h for stress when computed at 30 cm from the patient's chest level after injection. At 100 cm from the patient, the mean dose rate values were 0.37 (0.16–0.73) mR/h for rest and 1.39 (1.01–2.0) mR/h for stress. The overall effective dose is 12.1 mSv per rest and stress SPECT procedure. The mean effective dose for cardiac rest is comparable with previously published studies while the effective dose from cardiac stress is higher than previously published studies. The variation in the effective dose depends on several factors, including the department's clinical indication imaging protocols and radiation safety measures. • The patient's effective dose and dose were quantified during cardiac rest and stress SPECT procedures. • The mean effective dose for cardiac rest is comparable with previously published studies. • The effective dose from cardiac stress is higher than previously published studies. • The current AA activity for rest and stress is lower than the DRL and the previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of project management as international discipline was encouraged by the increasing of projects complexity all over the world. Despite of the effort made by the principal standards of project management, the number of failed and renegotiated projects still very high. Decision making process is one of the root causes of projects failure. During project development, decisions are made according to the evaluations performed in projects cut. In each cut, experts make, sequentially, diagnosis, decision, and prediction processes. This paper aims at creating a new model that integrate the diagnosis, decision, and prediction processes in one platform for decision making during projects development. The new model is based on Neutrosophic Cognitive Maps (NCMs) with a triangular neutrosophic number in map's connections. The suggested model deals efficiently with the uncertainty and vagueness, since it considers the truth, indeterminacy, and falsity degrees. Finally, the proposed model has been compared, in terms of efficacy, with a traditional FCM-based model for decision making in projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal medicines are natural remedies derived from plants or plant extracts. They have been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and are still widely used today as alternative treatments for various health conditions. In this study, the antiviral effects of the volatile oils of Thymus vulgaris and Lavandula angustifolia were examined separately after identifying the constituents of the volatile oils of these two plants. Two plants, Thymus vulgaris and Lavandula angustifolia, grown in the open air, were collected from the surrounding plains of Mirny and Ust-Ilimsk cities in Russia, respectively. Using a Clevenger apparatus, the oil was independently extracted from each plant by distillation with water. By using gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS), the obtained volatile oil was examined. The antiviral effects of these two plants' essential oils were then studied independently on herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). These viruses can quickly multiply on HeLa or HEp-2 cancer cells and produce effects that specifically cause cytopathic effect. In the essential oil of the Lavandula angustifolia, 24 compounds including thymol, carvacrol, p-Cymene and caryophyllene were identified. In the essential oil of Thymus vulgaris, 27 substances including terpenin-4-L, p-cymene, γ-terpinene and sabinene were identified. Also, the antiviral effects of the volatile oil of these two plants were investigated separately with a concentration of 10-4 on HeLa cells infected with HSV-1, and the result was negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the criminal procedural system and the preliminary investigation in the Brazilian criminal justice system, utilizing the contributions from the social sciences and the more progressive doctrine of the criminal procedure in relation to the subject. The intention is to add the approach of Michel Misse and Roberto Kant de Lima to a discussion that usually is strictly dogmatic, enriching it with other perspectives of interpretation. Regarding the criminal procedure, the authors employed in this article are Aury Lopes Jr., Salo de Carvalho and Jacinto Nelson de Miranda Coutinho. The methodology employed was the analysis of literature relevant to the problem at hand. The conclusion is that the Brazilian system is in reality an inquisitorial system, as the legal provisions are, in practice, suffering from deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An idea that improves the wettability over the surfaces of a cylindrical dehumidifier channel was proposed and experimentally proved. Fibrous sheets were attached to the inner surfaces of the channel. The capillary effect of fibers sustains the complete wetting of the heat and mass transfer surfaces. The air to be dehumidified and cooled flows upward in the annulus space between the two layers of fibrous sheets, which are saturated with the downward flowing desiccant solution. The permeability of the fibrous sheet was determined experimentally. It was 2.43×10−10 m2. The measured solution flow rate due to the capillary suction of the sheets was Γin,min =1.12kg/h m. The liquid desiccant tested was H2O/CaCl2 with salt concentration ratios ranging from 35 to 40%. The measured distribution of the solution flow rate along the circumference of the sheets at the outlet showed 5% deviation from the average flow rate. This is a good indication for the good wettability of walls inside the dehumidifier. Feeding the solution by this mechanism has many advantages over spray feeding. Beside sustaining complete surface wetting, it also prevents channel blockage with solution, which is a main factor in increasing the air pressure drop. About 95% of the air pressure drop is saved in this study by avoiding these problems. A simple theoretical model for the heat and mass transfer processes inside the dehumidifier was developed and experimentally validated. In general, there is good agreement between the predicted and measured data. The developed model was utilized to study the effect of the different parameters on the dehumidifier performance. For a 1m height dehumidifier with an inlet specific humidity and air temperature of 0.0234kgv/kga, and 35°C, respectively, the predicted outlet air specific humidity was 0.0102kgv/kgk and the corresponding outlet air temperature was 27.4°C. The inlet solution temperature and salt concentration were 25°C and 40%, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The fusion of Silicon (Si) with MXene nanostructures is a promising avenue to boost the performance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). This comprehensive review delves into recent progress and future prospects in the realm of Si-based MXene composites for LIB applications. Starting with an in-depth analysis of the structure and characteristics of Si-based MXene nanostructures, the paper elucidates their synthesis and characterization methodologies. The subsequent discussion delves into the mechanism and properties of LIBs, pinpointing the hurdles and possibilities for enhancement. The spotlight then shifts to the utilization of MXene materials in LIBs, emphasizing their pivotal role in ameliorating battery performance. Closing off, the review explores ongoing research trends and forthcoming directions in the field, offering insights into the potential applications and obstacles of Si-based MXene composites for the evolution of next-generation LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geometric process is one of the important simple monotonic processes with a positive ratio parameter in the theory of stochastic processes. Simply, it can be thought of as a generalization of the renewal process (RP). In the current paper, we mainly study the geometric process with the Hjorth marginal distribution, with parameters θ and λ, for being able to model the successive inter‐arrival times with a trend. We first examine inference problem for the mentioned process from different perspectives and obtain the different estimators of its parameters by employing different estimation methods such as maximum likelihood, modified moments, modified maximum spacing, and modified least‐squares. The efficiencies of these estimators are compared via a series of extensive simulation studies in the paper. Further, we give also a discrimination statistic for discriminating among geometric processes with the Hjorth distribution and its alternatives. This is quite important to select the optimal geometric process model for data. Finally, a modeling study by using the geometric process with the Hjorth distribution is provided in detail to display its effectiveness to model the reliability data sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, patient exposures Evaluations herein concern patient exposures (positron and gamma-rays) that result from fluoro-D-g1ucose PET and CT were investigated and radio-carcinogenic risks estimated. The six-month study, conducted at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, included a total of 636 patients (lymphoma = 187, nasopharyngeal carcinoma = 82, thyroid = 30 and others = 337). Patient effective dose estimations were made from administered radioactivity (AA) and CT exposures (General Electric (GE) PET/CT VCT), the mean and range of AA (in MBq) and effective dose (in mSv) were respectively: lymphoma 433.9 ± 70.6 (297.5–735.9) and 8.2 ± 1.3 (5.7–13.9); nasopharyngeal carcinoma 417.7 ± 55.9 (325.6–547.6) and 7.9 ± 1.1 (6.2–10.4); thyroid 450.1 ± 71.4 (344.1–566.1) and 8.6 ± 1.4 (6.5–10.8). In the same units, the mean and range of AA and effective dose for other procedures were 421.6 ± 58.3 (283.4–606.8) and 8.0 ± 1.1 (5.4–11.5), respectively. The mean and range of the tube current-time product (mAs) for the CT procedures were 30 (8.2–42.4). A constant tube voltage of 120 kVp was used for all patient procedures. On average, CT contributed 73% to patient effective doses, suggesting that optimisation of CT acquisition parameters are vital in seeking effective dose reduction. Patient effective doses were found to be a little above that of previous studies. • Radiation dose was measured for patients undergoing PET/CT procedures. • Patient doses from PET/CT procedures are higher compared to those reported in previous studies. • CT contributed 73% to patient effective doses while (18F-FDG, PET) contributed 27%. • Patients were exposed to avoidable radiation dose from CT in PET/CT imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer holds the position of being the primary cause of cancer‐related fatalities on a global scale. Furthermore, it exhibits the highest mortality rate among all types of cancer. The survival rate within a span of 5 years is less than 20%, primarily due to the fact that the disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, resulting in less effective treatment options compared to earlier stages. There are two main types of primary lung cancer: nonsmall‐cell lung cancer, which accounts for approximately 80%–85% of all cases, and small‐cell lung cancer, which is categorized based on the specific type of cells in which the cancer originates. The understanding of the biology of this disease and the identification of oncogenic driver alterations have significantly transformed the landscape of therapeutic approaches. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in regulating various physiological and pathological processes through diverse molecular mechanisms. Among these lncRNAs, lncRNA H19, initially identified as an oncofetal transcript, has garnered significant attention due to its elevated expression in numerous tumors. Extensive research has confirmed its involvement in tumorigenesis and malignant progression by promoting cell growth, invasion, migration, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, metastasis, and therapy resistance. This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of the aberrant overexpression of lncRNA H19 and the molecular pathways through which it contributes to the advancement of lung cancer. The findings of this review highlight the potential for further investigation into the diagnosis and treatment of this disease, offering promising avenues for future research. Significance Statement: Since today the role of different long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the development of various cancers has been determined to some extent, our aim is to investigate the role of lncRNA H19 in the progression of lung cancer. It is hoped that with a comprehensive review of past studies, this lncRNA can be used as a target for identifying and treating this cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article points out the need for classification of the private health sector. It identifies the benefits of mapping out elements of the private health sector and the roles they play in the delivery of health care for private sector engagement and for research. It suggests the collection of data about the full range of professionals, enterprises and organizations in health care, as well as the creation of a graphical representation of the classification of the private health sector.

A first-principles DFT investigation was conducted to study the sensing of formaldehyde (CH 2 O) via pure biphenylene monolayer (PBPML) and gold-decorated biphenylene monolayer (Au-BPML) monolayer. The PBPML exhibited superior adhesion of CH 2 O molecule in comparison with other reported 2D materials, but it physiosorbed onto the PBPML with the adhesion energy of −0.409 eV. However, decorating the Au atom significantly improved the CH 2 O adhesion capacity of BP and caused a notable change in its electronic attributes. The Au-BPML can be a suitable sensor for CH 2 O with structural steadiness at ambient temperature, a reasonable charge transfer of 0.947 e, adhesion energy of −0.836 eV, and the recovery time of 1.03 s at 300 K. This study highlights the suitability of Au-BPML for CH 2 O sensing and its practical application. It also presents a new approach for the design and development of efficient sensors for biomolecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Recurrence following muscle strain is a serious problem encountered in sports. Muscle and fascia are mechanically integrated in transmitting muscular force. Fascial injury has been associated with muscle strain which may explain its potential contribution to impaired muscle recovery. This study aimed at describing structural changes of fascia and muscle as well as limb function recovery during the various healing stages following strain injury in rodents. Methods. Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were randomly and equally divided into four groups: normal control and three muscle strain injury groups. Tibialis Anterior muscle was strained in the three injured groups then all rats were allowed free cage mobility until euthanasia after 2 days (acute group), 9 days (subacute group), or 21 days (chronic and normal groups). The sciatic function index was used to assess functional recovery while histopathology scoring and histomorphometry quantified tissue healing. Results. Cellularity significantly increased in muscle and fascia tissues only in the acute stage (p < 0.05). Collagen degeneration was significant in the acute and subacute stages in muscle (p < 0.05), whereas fascia showed significant degeneration only at the subacute stage (p < 0.05). Fascia thickness significantly increased in all examined stages (p < 0.05), while muscle fibers width and interstitial dilatation increased only in the acute and subacute stages (p < 0.05). Muscle fibrosis was significant in the subacute and chronic stages (p < 0.05). Function was not significantly different between all groups at all examined stages (p > 0.05). Conclusions. Strain injury involves all fascia and muscle structures. Healing of all structures occurs spontaneously by the chronic stage, except for fascia thickness and muscle fibrosis. Future studies are recommended to investigate whether incorporating fascia as a therapeutic goal would decrease muscle injury recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gentamicin is a well-known that is drug effective against a wide range of microbes. It is not effective on some bacterial strains. The combination of gentamicin and other bioactive nanostructures can increase the biological properties of the nanocomposite while maintaining its biological properties. Microwave irradiation was utilized to synthesize novel nanocomposites in this study, which consisted of Zn-MOF, gentamicin, and oxidized chitosan. Its structure using EA, XRD, FT-IR, XPS, EDAX, BET, SEM, and TEM were characterized and confirmed. Antimicrobial evaluations were conducted on various bacterial strains according to the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute’s standards and guidelines, and IZD, MIC, and MBC were reported. The antimicrobial studies resulted in interesting findings. In general, in antimicrobial activity, MIC of synthesized Zn-MOF/gentamicin/oxidized chitosan nanocomposites between 2 and 128 µg/mL, MBC of 4–256 µg/mL and IZD of 15.5–22.7 mm were observed. It was observed that synthesized Zn-MOF/gentamicin/oxidized chitosan nanocomposites were more effective on the strains where gentamicin was effective, and it is also effective on the strains where gentamicin was not effective. These results can be attributed to the loading of gentamicin on the nano substrate as well as the presence of natural bioactive polymer (oxidized chitosan) and the bioactive metal (zinc) in the structure of the final synthesized nanocomposite as well as high specific surface area, and being nano-sized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The capacities, abilities and potential of Ni–C 36 , Ni–Al 18 P 18 , Co–C 54 , Co–Ge 54 , Co-CNT(7, 0), Co-GeNT(7, 0), Ni-CNT(10, 0) and Ni-AlPNT(10, 0) to use as catalysts of OER and ORR are examined by theoretical models. The adsorption energy, free Gibbs adsorption energy, overpotential and Gibbs free energy values of ORR and OER on used catalysts are compared with other metal catalysts. The Ni and Co atoms which are doped on nanotubes and nanocages are catalytic positions to adsorb ORR and OER species the and to process the reaction steps of OER and ORR. The Co-GeNT(7, 0) and Ni-AlPNT(10, 0) have lower overpotential than Ni–C 36 , Ni–Al 18 P 18 , Co–C 54 and Co–Ge 54. Finally, the Co-GeNT(7, 0) and Ni-AlPNT(10, 0) are suggested as catalysts with acceptable stability, high capacity to adsorb the species, lower over-potential and high performances by theoretical models. [Display omitted] • Capacity of metal doped nano-catalysts for OER and ORR are investigated. • Metal doped nano-catalysts have acceptable potential to adsorb the ORR and OER species. • Reaction of *OH separation is potential-determining steps of ORR. • Nanotubes has lower overpotential than nanocages for ORR and OER. • Co-GeNT(7, 0) and Ni-AlPNT(10, 0) are proposed to catalyze the ORR and OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About 70% of all collective doses from medical tests come from computed tomography (CT), the primary public radiation exposure source. Patients received higher doses during contrast-enhanced CT procedures (Angiography) than routine CT procedures. The current research aims to quantify the patients' radiation doses, estimate the cancer risk probability, and establish institutional diagnostic reference level (IDRL) during lower extremity angiography. One hundred eleven patients (61.3% male and 38.7% female) underwent contrast-enhanced CT procedures. A 160-Slice CT scanner was used for image acquisition for all patient populations. IDRL values were quantified based on the 3rd quartile value of the CT dose descriptors. All procedures were carried out at Al-Moaallim Medical City, Khartoum, Sudan. A computer software (CT-Expo, ImPACT) was used to extrapolate the effective dosage per extremity CTA examination was estimated. The mean patient age (years) was 56.1 ± 18 (18–82). The patient's radiation doses was quantified using volume CTDI and dose length product (DLP) to 7.3 ± 2 (2.9–16.8) (mGy) and 3712 ± 126 (279–8374) (mGy.cm), respectively. The average effective doses were 22 mSv (range: 1.7–50) per lower CT angiography for the lower extremity. The proposed IDRL for the VCTA procedure was 3562 mGy cm and 17 mGy for DLP and CTDIvol, respectively. The proposed IDRL is higher than the previously published studies; therefore, patient dose optimization is recommended. • Radiation doses were determined for patients undergoing VCTA procedure. • A 160-Slice CT scanner with iterative reconstruction techniques was used for examining the patients. • The average effective doses were 22 mSv (range: 1.7–50) per VCTA. • The proposed LDRL for the VCTA procedure was 3562 mGy cm and 17 mGy for DLP and CTDIvol, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, thyroid cancer accounts for some 10% of total cancer incidence, most markedly for females. Thyroid cancer radiotherapy, typically using 131I (T1/2 8.02 days; β− max energy 606 keV, branching ratio 89.9%), is widely adopted as an adjunct to surgery or to treat inoperable cancer and hyperthyroidism. With staff potentially receiving significant doses during source preparation and administration, radiation protection and safety assessment are required in ensuring practice complies with international guidelines. The present study, concerning a total of 206 patient radioiodine therapies carried out at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center over a 6-month period, seeks to evaluate patient and occupational exposures during hospitalization, measuring ambient doses and estimating radiation risk. Using calibrated survey meters, patient exposure dose-rate estimates were obtained at a distance of 30-, 100- and 300 cm from the neck region of each patient. Occupational and ambient doses were measured using calibrated thermoluminescent dosimeters. The mean and range of administered activity (AA, in MBq) for the thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidism treatment groups were 4244 ± 2021 (1669–8066), 1507.9 ± 324.1 (977.9–1836.9), respectively. The mean annual occupational doses were 1.2 mSv, that for ambient doses outside of the isolation room corridors were found to be 0.2 mSv, while ambient doses at the nursing station were below the lower limit of detection. Exposures to staff from patients being treated for thyroid cancer were less compared to hyperthyroidism patients. With a well-defined protocol, also complying with international safety requirements, occupational exposures were found to be relatively high, greater than most reported in previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Exploration the emerging field of eco-friendly and sustainable methods for synthesizing carbon-based quantum dots (CQDs) • Attractive of CQDs for various applications based on their remarkable properties of CQDs exhibit remarkable biocompatibility, low toxicity, and tunable emission properties. • Investigation the remarkable antibacterial activity of CQDs against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. • Suggesting innovative approaches to combat infections and enhance public health. This review paper explores the burgeoning field of green synthesis of carbon-based quantum dots (CQDs) and their profound implications in addressing antibacterial resistance. Quantum dots (QDs), including CQDs, are nano-sized fluorescent particles with diverse applications in areas like medical technology, sensing, and imaging. CQDs, which are carbon-based and exhibit remarkable biocompatibility, low toxicity, and tunable emission properties, have recently garnered substantial attention. This paper delves into the "green synthesis" of CQDs, emphasizing eco-friendly, sustainable methods using plant extracts and microbial agents. The exploration of CQDs' antibacterial properties is a central focus, revealing their remarkable antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These findings suggest a wide spectrum of antibacterial potential, offering innovative approaches to combating infections and enhancing public health. Mechanisms underlying CQDs' antibacterial efficacy, including the generation of reactive oxygen species, direct interaction with bacterial membranes, and disruption of biofilms, are discussed. To optimize their application, further research is required. Moreover, the review comprehensively categorizes quantum dots into semiconductor, metallic, and carbon-based types, and elucidates the properties and structure of CQDs. The classification of CQDs into distinct groups based on structural features is examined, shedding light on this multifaceted class of nanomaterials. The synthesis and characterization of CQDs are also detailed, highlighting the importance of precision in tailoring their properties for various applications. This review paper provides a comprehensive understanding of CQDs and their potential for combatting antibacterial resistance, offering valuable insights into this cutting-edge field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid increase in computed tomography (CT) examinations among pediatric patients, the concern about the effects of radiation exposure in this population has increased. Therefore, it is necessary to measure and regulate radiation exposure, which can be done using diagnostic reference levels (DRLs). This study aimed to calculate typical values for common pediatric studies at the radiology department of King Abdulaziz University Hospital Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. For a single institute, these are calculated as the median of computed tomography dose index (CTDIvol, mGy) or dose length product (DLP, mGy.cm) values. Pediatric patient data from January 2015 to December 2020 were collected, including CT examinations, dose descriptors, imaging protocols, and scanning parameters. A total of 8717 radiological studies were included in the sample. They were categorized into three age groups; more than half of the 5102 (58.5%) belonged to Group 1 (0–5 years), 1790 (20.5%) were in Group 2 (6–10 years), and 1826 (20.9%) were in Group 3 (11–15 years). Brain CT angiogram, non-enhanced brain CT, and Internal Auditory Canal (IAC) CT had the highest mean CTDI Vol and DLP, while virtual bronchoscopy contrast-enhanced chest and neck CT angiography had the lowest mean CTDI Vol. The values of DRLs in the current study were approximately lower than and comparable with those reported in other studies. • This study quantified pediatric doses during common CT procedures. • A total of 8717 radiological studies were included in the sample. • Local DRLs were established for common CT procedures. • The values of DRLs in the current study were lower than other studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Pure BN-biphenyl nanosheets were introduced for the drug delivery system. • The attributes of BN-biphenyl nanosheets, thereby increasing the adhesion process of 5FU. • The NCI and RDG analysis were performed to examination the main interactions. Thus far, numerous pieces of research have been undertaken into developing new drug delivery systems. Within the current piece of research, the BN-biphenyl nanosheet (BN-bNS) was employed as a BN-analog of biphenyl. The DFT estimations were undertaken to explore the interaction between the anti-cancer drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and BN-bNS. Moreover, the results demonstrated the chemical reactivity of the complex of 5-FU/ BN-bNS, which demonstrated its suitability for 5-FU bonding with the adsorptive site. Moreover, for the better understanding of the complexes of 5-FU BN-bNS, we performed the noncovalent interaction analysis, and the interaction between 5-FU and BN-bNS was found to be strong. So, BN-bNS can be used a promising nanocarrier for 5-FU for drug delivery purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of present study is estimation of the radioactivity held within the urinary bladder and kidneys 3 h post radiopharmaceutical (99mTc-MDP) administration, comparison being made via use of MIRDose. Using the conjugate-view method and built-in camera software Mediso XP Interview, urinary bladder and kidney radionuclide activities were calculated using patient clinical data acquired at the aforesaid 3 h post 99mTc-MDP injection juncture. The study was of a cohort of 40 patients attending for staging and cancer follow-up at the Nuclear Medicine Department, Royal Care International Hospital (RCIH), Sudan, Ethical and Research Committee approval for the study having been obtained. The radioisotope biokinetics were simulated using the Medical Internal Radiation Dose (MIRD) biokinetics model, specifically in regard to radionuclide activity in the kidneys and bladder. The results were compared with the data achieved via clinical study, showing the experimentally estimated radionuclide activity in the kidney to be greater by some 50% compared to that of simulation while the bladder radionuclide activity was found to be just 2% of the simulation result. The study also found that 0.9% of the administered radioactivity remained in the urinary bladder and kidneys 3 h post administration of the radionuclide, suggestive of low radiation dose to the urinary bladder and kidneys post 99mTc-MDP bone scans. • 99mTc-MDP radionuclide biokinetics were simulated using MIRD biokinetics model. • Radionuclide activities for Urinary bladder and kidney were calculated. • The experimentally estimated radionuclide activity in the kidney to be greater by some 50%. • 0.9% of the administered radioactivity remained in the urinary bladder and kidneys 3 h. • Low radiation dose to the urinary bladder and kidneys post 99mTc-MDP bone scans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lutetium-177 (DOTATATE) (177Lu; T 1/2 6.7 days), a labelled β− and Auger-electron emitter, is widely used in treatment of neuroendocrine tumours. During performance of the procedure, staff and other patients can potentially receive significant doses in interception of the gamma emissions [113 keV (6.4%) and 208 keV (11%)] that are associated with the particle decays. While radiation protection and safety assessment are required in seeking to ensure practices comply with international guidelines, only limited published studies are available. The objectives of present study are to evaluate patient and occupational exposures, measuring ambient doses and estimating the radiation risk. The results, obtained from studies carried out in Riyadh over an 11 month period, at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, concerned a total of 33 177Lu therapy patients. Patient exposures were estimated using a calibrated Victoreen 451P survey meter (Fluke Biomedical), for separations of 30 cm, 100 cm and 300 cm, also behind a bed shield that was used during hospitalization of the therapy patients. Occupational and ambient doses were also measured through use of calibrated thermoluminescent dosimeters and an automatic TLD reader (Harshaw 6600). The mean and range of administered activity (in MBq)) was 7115.2 ± 917.2 (4329–7955). The ambient dose at corridors outside of therapy isolation rooms was 1.2 mSv over the 11 month period, that at the nursing station was below the limit of detection and annual occupational doses were below the annual dose limit of 20 mSv. Special concern needs to be paid to comforters (carers) and family members during the early stage of radioisotope administration. • Occupational and ambient doses were monitored for nuclear medicine personnel over eleven months. • The dose was quantified using thermluminecent dosimeters. • Occupational doses were below the annual dose limits for whole body and extremities. • Patient isolation is necessary in order to ensure that family members and members of the public receive optimally low doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the preparation of radioisotopes, during their administration and during patient imaging nuclear medicine personnel are routinely exposed to ionising radiation. With radiation risks increasing with dose, safety assessment is required in seeking to ensure practice complies with international guidelines and dose limits. A particular aim herein is to measure staff exposures during certain molecular imaging procedures including through use of positron emission tomography with computed tomography (PET/CT) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) procedures. Over a one-year period occupational doses were monitored for 30 nuclear medicine personnel at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH&RC) in Riyadh. Dose equivalent values were measured in terms of Hp (10) (deep dose) and Hp (0.07) (skin dose), extremity doses also being measured via ring dosimeters. The measurements were made using calibrated thermoluminescent dosimeters, type LiF:Mg, Ti (TLD-100). In mSv, the respective mean annual dose and range for H p (10), H p (0.07) and extremities were 3.05 ± 2.1 (0.23–0.91), 3.15 ± 2.2 (0.1–9.1) and 28.25 (0.1–298.0). In all cases, extremity dose values were well below the annual dose limit (500 mSv). Nevertheless, with personnel doses varying significantly, careful assessment of working conditions is recommended in efforts to ensure occupational exposures remain below annual dose limits. • Occupational doses were monitored for 30 nuclear medicine personnel over one year using thermoluminescent dosimeters. • The dose was quantified in terms of Hp (10) and Hp (0.07) and extremity doses. • Occupational doses were below the annual dose limits for whole body and extremities. • Careful assessment of working conditions are recommended in seeking to reduce gender differences in occupational exposures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims at proposing a Constraint-based Learning Estimation of Distribution Algorithm (EDA) to solve the Multi-Mode Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem (MMRCPSP). This problem is considered a combinatorial optimization problem and consists of a set of tasks to be carried out in an ordered way, limited availability of resources, and an execution mode for each task. Generally, traditional EDAs handle the constraints of the problem using strategies such as penalty, Pareto dominance, or others, without taking into account these constraints during the learning process. These traditional approaches usually cause the generation of infeasible solutions in each iteration. In this paper, an approach based on the constraints handling during the learning process of the probabilistic model is proposed. To validate the performance of the algorithms, the new approach in two scenarios is compared. First, in the solution of a set of classical optimization problems, where different EDAs are compared in terms of efficiency and efficacy. The second group of experiments is performed on a set of instances of the PSPLIB database. In this case, the proposed algorithm is compared with a traditional EDA and with other results reported in the bibliography. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposal outperforms both the results of traditional EDA and other EDA reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the physical, mechanical, optical, and radiation shielding properties of several articles discussing BaO-based glass systems prepared by the melt-quench technique. Specifically, the article discussed is an article that reports experimentally the effectiveness of BaO-based glass systems as shielding gamma-ray radiation at an energy of 0.662 MeV published since 2019. In addition, we also compare the theoretical effectiveness of several glass systems by recalculating using Phy- X/PSD based on the respective compositions reported by previous studies at several energies, namely: 0.284, 0.347, 0.662, 0.826, 1.173, 1.333, and 2.506 MeV. Based on the analysis, the Bi 2 O 3 –BaO–B 2 O 3 glass system is the best in terms of absorbing radiation. But it still needs to be developed to get the best physical, mechanical, and optical properties. With this article, scholars can more easily determine the composition of a BaO-based glass system to be applied as a more effective and high-quality radiation shield. • Evolution of gamma-ray radiation at an energy of 0.662 MeV published since 2019. • The theoretical effectiveness were calculated using Phy- X/PSD. at various energies. • The Bi2O3–BaO–B2O3 glass system is the best in terms of absorbing radiation. • Scholars easily determine composition BaO-based for effective radiation shield. • Physical, mechanical, and optical properties important in for BaO-based glass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to better understand the evolution of concrete composite as a radiation shielding research from when it was first published in 1949 to October 26, 2022. This study was conducted based on the Scopus database, and the publications analyzed a total of 541 documents. The data in this paper is visualized using the VOSviewer and Tableau to perform bibliometric analysis and scientific mapping. The analysis results show that published documents have continued to increase in recent years and are dominated by articles. Some countries show productivity and influence in their country/region with the broadest range of partners. This study presents the most contributed journals and the most frequently cited documents. In addition, keyword analysis was carried out to find the hotspots on this research topic. This paper helps scholars to understand the evolution of concrete composite as a radiation shielding research from a bibliometric perspective and inspires them to develop new concrete composite with high stability absorption properties from waste or natural material to replace concrete Lead (Pb)-based. • Evolution concrete composite as shielding research from 1949 to October 26, 2022. • Data perform using bibliometric analysis and scientific mapping. • To helps scholars, understand evolution of concrete composite as a radiation shield. • Bibliometric perspective help to develop new high absorption of concrete composite. • High stability from waste or natural material to replace concrete Lead (Pb)-based. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occupational radiation exposure can occur due to various human activities, including the use of radiation in medicine. Occupationally exposed personnel surpassing 7.4 millions, and respresent the biggest single group of employees who are exposed to artificial radiation sources at work. This study compares the occupational radiation dose levels for 145 workers in four different hospitals located in the Aseer region in Saudi Arabia. The occupational exposure was quantified using thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLD-100). The levels of annual occupational exposures in targeted hospitals were calculated and compared with the levels of the international atomic energy agency (IAEA) Safety Standards. An average yearly cumulative dose for the two consecutive years. The average, highest and lowest resulted occupational doses under examination in this work is 1.42, 3.9 mSv and 0.72 for workers in various diagnostic radiology procedures. The resulted annual effective dose were within the IAEA approved yearly dose limit for occupational exposure of workers over 18, which is 20 mSv. Staff should be monitored on a regular basis, according to current practice, because their annual exposure may surpass 15% of the annual effective doses. • Annual occupational dose (Hp(10) were evaluated at four diagnostic radiology department. • Staff doses represent approximately 15% of the annual effective dose. • Students and trainees should be monitored on a regular basis, according to current practice. • Occupational exposure is comparable with the most previously published studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CT scanning deliver much higher radiation doses than planar radiological procedures, which puts patients to high risks. This study measures and evaluates patient doses during chest and abdomen computed tomography procedures. Particular attention is given to measuring the dose to the equivalent breast (mSv) and to estimate the associated risks of breast cancer to young female patients (15–35 years). Data was obtained from standard examinations from three hospitals. The measured values of CT dose indexes, CTDI (mGy) as well as exposure-related parameters were used for assessment. Breast and effective doses were extrapolated using a software. The results showed remarkable variations of the mean organ equivalent doses for similar CT examinations in the studied hospitals. This could be attributed to the variation in CT scanning imaging technique, and clinical indications. The average effective dose to the chest was 7.9 mSv (2.3–47.0 mSv) and for the abdomen the mean dose was 6.6 mSv, ranging from (3.3–27 mSv). The breast received equivalent doses from chest and abdomen procedures as follows: 10.2 (1.6–33 mSv) and 10.1(2.3–19 mS) Sv respectively. Each procedure yielded high risks of breast cancer for young females. Implementation of accurate referral criteria is recommended to avoid unnecessary breast radiation exposure. • Breast radiation doses for young females were evaluated during CT chest and abdomen procedures. • CT chest and abdomen procedures yielded high risks of breast cancer for young females. • Breast doses varied from 1.6 to 33 mSv during chest CT procedure. • Proper justification and optimization are recommended to save young females from potential radiogenic risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant source of ionizing radiation for medical use is computed tomography (CT). According to estimates, more than 84 million CT scans are carried out yearly in the US. Because the neck area contains several organs and tissues that are very sensitive to ionizing radiation, such as the thyroid gland, CT for the neck region is commonly done for a variety of clinical causes. This study's goal is to assess the patient doses to radiosensitive organs and effective doses received during the CT neck surgery in the pastAt Riyadh Care Hospital, a multislice CT (MSCT) system (Siemens Somatom Sensation, 64 slices/detector) was used to perform improved CT treatments on a total of 54 patients. Patient ages were 41.5–15.5 years old on average, with a wide variation (21–73). Using computer software based on Monte Carlo simulation, organ and effective dosages were assessed. The International Commission of Radiological Protection (ICRP) risk variables were used to calculate the patient's radiogenic risk for a particular organ. The patients' dose length product (DLP, mGy.cm) for CT neck examination were 993.3 ± 539.5 (267.3–2441.7). The mean and range of volume CT dose per slice (CTDIvol (mGy)) were 1.5 ± 3.9 (3.91–22.55). The overall effective dose (mSv) per procedure is ranged from 1.3 to 11.7 with a mean value 2.8 mSv. Patients' CT neck procedures have been repeated the procedure up to 7 times during the treatment course. The risk of malignancy is 1x10-6 CT procedure. The study showed that patients received wide discrepancies in patients' doses up to 9 times. Optimization of image acquisition protocol and scan length is necessary to reduce the unnecessary risk. • The effective and organ equivalent doses during neck CT procedure were studied. • Lens of the eye, salivary gland and thyroid gland received a high radiation dose. • The overall effective dose (mSv) per procedure is ranged from 1.3 to 11.7 • Patients' CT neck procedures have been repeated the procedure up to 7 times during the treatment course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial radiation is the primary radiogenic risk source to the general population. Medical field has been growing in Sudan. This study aims to estimate effective doses for adult patients from nuclear medicine examinations. The study involved 685 patients from five different hospitals in Sudan. In total, 300, 196, and 189 patients underwent renal, thyroid, and bone scans. All procedures were carried out using the Tc-99m radionuclide. Effective dose has been estimated using computer software depending on conductive activity. The results show that dose information for patients from thyroid, renal, and bone scan, for thyroid scan the patients' age was 42.82 ± 16.46 years, the patient's weight 68.58 ± 12.82 kg, the activity 4.75 ± 0.543 mCi and the effective dose for thyroid was 2.28 ± 0.26 mSv. For renal scan, the patients' age 45.19 ± 16.36 years, the weight 65.96 ± 13.78 kg, the activity 5.21 ± 1.166 mCi, and the effective dose 0.94 ± 0.211 mSv. For a bone scan, the patients' age was 57.59 ± 14.92 years, the patient's weight was 69.48 ± 13.71 kg, the activity 19.96 ± 2.11 mCi, and the effective dose for bone was 4.208 ± 0.443 mSv. The study revealed that the administered activity is independent of patient weight. Patients received unjustified exposure due to the high amount of administered activity. Implementation of national guidelines is necessary to improve the practice and patient safety. • Effective dose has been estimated for thyroid, renal and bone scan procedures. • Patients received the least effective dose during renal scan procedures. • The study revealed that the administered activity is independent of patient weight, according to the current protocol. • Proper optimization are recommended to save young from potential radiogenic risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computed tomography (CT) are often used for adult and pediatric patients. This is basically due to its powerful diagnostic capabilities in providing the tiniest details of pathologies in the body. Nevertheless, this detailed and accurate imaging occurs at the expense of the high doses received by the patients, although in general, the benefits outweighs the risks precisely of malignancy. Pediatrics are radiosensitive more than adults due to their longer life expectancy and their rapidly dividing cells. This study aims at measuring and evaluating pediatric patient doses in four hospitals equipped with 16, 20 and 128 CT detectors. Forty-eight pediatric patients who underwent brain (72.7%) and abdomen (36.3%) Computed Tomography are included in this study. Data includes CTDI vol (mGy) and DLP (mGy.cm). CTDOSE computer software which is based on Monte Carlo simulations was used to calculate the effective and organ equivalent doses (mSv). The CTDIvol (mGy) per procedure range was 11.0–95.0 mGy for brain CT and 3.0–30.0 mGy for abdomen CT. DLP on the other hand ranged between 129.0 and 2510.0 mGy cm for brain CT and 84.0–1604.0 for abdomen CT. The high doses were attributed to the fact that the protocols used for pediatric patients were the adult protocols, not bearing in mind the high radio-sensitivity of the pediatrics. Establishing a protocol for pediatric CT is hence of great importance to prevent them from receiving unnecessary high doses which may eventually cause cancer. • The radiation doses during specific pediatric CT examinations in four hospitals were evaluated. • Patient dose per CT procedure ranged from 84.0 to 2510.0 mGy cm. • Adults protocols used for pediatric patients resulted in unnecessary exposure. • Standardizing imaging protocols during pediatric CT imaging is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staff occupational radiation exposure is limited to 20 mSv annually to preclude tissue reaction and lower risk of cancer effect. Staff occupational exposure arises during the preparation, injection, and scanning of the patients. Recent studies reported that nuclear medicine personnel might exceed the annual dose limit in high workload and poor radiation protection circumstances. Therefore, an accurate estimation of the annual dose limit is recommended. The goal of this research is to calculate the cumulative external effective dose (mSv) per year for nuclear medicine physicians, technologists, and nurses at SPECT/CT department. A total of 15 staff worked in the nuclear medicine department at King Saud Medical City (KSMC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia were evaluated for the last six years. 99mTc is used more frequently for most of the patients. The procedures include renal, cardiac scintigraphy procedures. Staff dose was quantified using calibrated thermoluminecnt dosimeters (TLD-100) with an automatic TLD reader (Harshaw 6600). Exposure to ionizing radiation was evaluated in terms of deep doses (Hp(10) were evaluated. The overall average and standard deviation of the external doses for nuclear medicine physicians, technologists' and nurses were 1.8 ± 0.7, 1.9 ± 0.6, 2.0 ± 0.9, 2.2 ± 0.8, 6.0 ± 2.8, and 3.6 ± 1.3 for the years 2015,2016,2017,2018,2019, and 2020, respectively. Technologists and nurses received higher doses of compared to the nuclear medicine physicians. Technologists and nurses involved in radionuclide preparation, patients' injection, and image acquisition. Staff annual exposure is below the annual dose limits; however, this external dose is considered high compared to the current workload. • Staff annual effective dose was estimated at nuclear medicine department equipped with two SPECT/CT systems. • External effective dose in terms of Hp(10) was monitored for six consecutive years. • Occupational exposure was quantified with thermoluminecnt dosimeters (TLD-100). • Technologists and nurses received higher doses than the nuclear medicine physicians. • Staff annual radiation from external exposure is 50% below the annual dose limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In interventional radiology attendant staff can be exposed to significant doses from the radiation scattered from the patient, giving rise to heterogeneous energy distribution, exposure occurring over extended periods of time. Protection of staff is a prime concern, also including reducing the risk of carcinogenesis. With only limited published studies available, as in for instance in regard to lens opacifications, further evaluation of staff exposures and assessment of radiation protection techniques and measures are crucial. Present study has sought to evaluate staff radiation exposure in a radiology department that performs interventional procedures. Annual occupational exposures were obtained for 32 personnel (6 females and 26 males) in a radiology department at a tertiary hospital. Personal dose equivalent H p (d) was measured in terms of H p (0.07) (shallow dose) and H p (10) (deep dose). The measurements were made over a period of two consecutive years, 2017 and 2018, use being made of TLD-100 thermoluminescent dosimeters. In units of mSv, the corresponding average annual dose equivalent and range for H p (10) and H p (0.07) were 4.6 ± 7.0 (0.1–25.5) and 5.1 ± 7.3 (0.1–25.5). Notably, 16% of staff received doses that were greater than the annual dose limit. Since H p (10) offers a conservative evaluation of effective dose, evaluation of the working environment is necessary in seeking to ensure dose values remain below annual dose limits. • Occupational exposure was measured at interventional radiology department. • Personal dose equivalent (H p (d) were measured in terms of H p (0.07) (shallow dose) and H p (10) (deep dose) were evaluated. • Staff exposures were measured using TLD-100 thermoluminecent dosimeters. • 16% of the staff received doses that were greater than the annual dose limit. • Variation in staff dose is due to workload and type of the procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]