Search

Background: Fagonia cretica L. (Family: Zygophyllaceae), is a wild shrub mostly found in Mediterranean districts and extensively used in folk medicine for a vast array of purposes such as antidiabetic and anticancer during the early stages. The goal of the current study was to validate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic properties of Egyptian F. cretica using in vitro studies, metabolic profiling, and in silico approaches. Methods: The plant was collected from the Egyptian desert and the alcoholic extract was prepared from its aerial parts, total phenolic and total flavonoid contents were evaluated spectrophotometrically. Antioxidant potential was assessed via 1,1 diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity. Anti-inflammatory activity was validated through in vitro COX-2, COX-1, and nitric oxide inhibition. Cytotoxicity was tested against liver (HepG2), breast (MCF-7), and intestinal (CACO2) carcinoma cell lines followed by assessment of its impact on the levels of apoptotic markers namely topoisomerase I and caspase 9 enzymes. Chemical profiling of the extract was performed using LC-HRMS technique. Saponin rich extract was prepared and tested for affecting topo I and caspase 9 enzymes. In silico studies were conducted on anti-inflammatory (COX-2 and COX-1) and cytotoxicity (topoisomerases I, IIα, and IIβ) targets using Autodock vina in PyRx platform. Results: Total phenolic and total flavonoid content of the extract were 2.4 ± 0.12 mg GAE/g and 0.18 ± 0.01 mg RE/g, respectively. In vitro results revealed antioxidant activity calculated as 1.4 ± 0.1 mg AEAC/g. In vitro anti-inflammatory assays unveiled inhibition of COX-2 and COX-1 enzymes with IC50 values of 13.02 ± 0.61 and 26.51 ± 0.83 µg/ml, respectively and nitric oxide with IC50 of 147.05 ± 9.61 µg/ml. Cytotoxicity on MCF-7, HepG2, and CACO2 cell line with IC50 values of 6.9 ± 0.53, 7.6 ± 0.42, and 9.2 ± 0.35 µg/ml, respectively, in addition to in vitro topoisomerase I inhibition (IC50 = 13.57 ± 0.71 µg/ml) and caspase 9 induction by 5.66 folds. Metabolic profiling using LC-HRMS technique resulted in dereplication of 21 compounds including triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, diterpenoids, etc. Interestingly, saponin rich fraction and non-saponin fraction exhibited similar effects on topoisomerase I and caspase 9. In silico investigation unveiled high binding affinities of almost all the detected metabolites to the active sites of COX-2, COX-1, topo I, IIα, and IIβ enzymes. Conclusion: Collectively, we can conclude that F. cretica is a new source of many phytochemicals, and a significant natural source as cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Functional gastrointestinal disorders in infants and toddlers are common worldwide and cover a variety of disorders associated with chronic, recurrent symptoms attributable to the gastrointestinal tract, but not explained by structural or biochemical abnormalities. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the main predictors for reflux disease improvements among infants. Methodology: This cross-sectional study recruited 300 infants with reflux manifestations from the outpatient clinic of the Pediatrics Department at Aswan University Hospital from January 2021 till December 2022. Results: after adjusting for age and sex, the main independent predictors for GERD improvement among the studied cohort were weight, length, skin manifestation, growth faltering, CoMiSs score at baseline and at 3rd visit. Conclusion: When CoMiSs negatives the AR formula more evident than PPI finally domperidine having the least impact on improving GERD symptoms. CoMiSs Score is a simple, fast, and easy-to-use useful tool for screening infants who presented with recurrent or persistent GI manifestations including GERD symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the advancements in technology, classification learning has become an essential activity in today's environment. Unfortunately, through the classification process, we noticed that the classifiers are unable to deal with the imbalanced data, which indicates there are many more instances (majority instances) in one class than in another. Identifying an appropriate classifier among the various candidates is a time-consuming and complex effort. Improper selection can hinder the classification model's ability to provide the right outcomes. Also, this operation requires preference among a set of alternatives by a set of criteria. Hence, multi-criteria decisionmaking (MCDM) methodology is the appropriate methodology can deploy in this problem. Accordingly, we applied MCDM and supported it through harnessing neurotrophic theory as motivators in uncertainty circumstances. Single value Neutrosophic sets (SVNSs) are applied as branch of Neutrosophic theory for evaluating and ranks classifiers and allows experts to select the best classifier So, to select the best classifier (alternative), we use MCDM method called Multi-Attributive Ideal-Real Comparative Analysis (MAIRAC) and the criteria weight calculation method called Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) where these methods consider singlevalue neutrosophic sets (SVNSs) to improve and boost these techniques in uncertain scenarios. All these methods are applied after modeling criteria and its sub-criteria through a novel technique is Tree Soft Sets (TrSS). Ultimately, the findings of leveraging these techniques indicated that the hybrid multi-criteria meta-learner (HML)-based classifier is the best classifier compared to the other compared models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanofibers are investigated to be superiorly applicable in different purposes such as drug delivery systems, air filters, wound dressing, water filters, and tissue engineering. Herein, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) is thermally treated for autocatalytic cyclization, to give optically active PAN-nanopolymer, which is subsequently applicable for preparation of nanofibers through solution blow spinning. Whereas, solution blow spinning is identified as a process for production of nanofibers characterized with high porosity and large surface area from a minimum amounts of polymer solution. The as-prepared nanofibers were shown with excellent photoluminescence and microbicide performance. According to rheological properties, to obtain spinnable PAN-nanopolymer, PAN (12.5–15% wt/vol, honey like solution, 678–834 mPa s), thermal treatment for 2–4 h must be performed, whereas, time prolongation resulted in PAN-nanopolymer gelling or rubbering. Size distribution of PAN-nanopolymer (12.5% wt/vol) is estimated (68.8 ± 22.2 nm), to reflect its compatibility for the production of carbon nanofibers with size distribution of 300–400 nm. Spectral mapping data for the photoluminescent emission showed that, PAN-nanopolymer were exhibited with two intense peaks at 498 nm and 545 nm, to affirm their superiority for production of fluorescent nanofibers. The microbial reduction % was estimated for carbon nanofibers prepared from PAN-nanopolymer (12.5% wt/vol) to be 61.5%, 71.4% and 81.9%, against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans, respectively. So, the prepared florescent carbon nanofibers can be potentially applicable in anti-infective therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), such as atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases, are caused by inflammatory cytokines and endothelial cell damage. The serum sialic acid binding immunoglobulin-like lectin 1 (sSIGLEC-1) is thought to be an alternative biomarker of IFN signature and may have a role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. The aim of the study was to measure the levels of sSIGLEC-1 in the serum of SLE patients in comparison to a control group and examine the associations between sSIGLEC-1, SLEDAI, lipid profile, oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL), and carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) to investigate whether sSIGLEC-1 participates in the development of atherosclerosis. sSIGLEC-1 levels were tested in 53 patients and 20 volunteers using ELISA kit. Duplex measurements were performed on all subjects to measure CIMT. SLE patients had significantly higher values of sSIGLEC-1 (P < 0.0001), total cholesterol (P = 0.029), triglycerides (P = 0.001), low density lipoprotein (P = 0.032), oxLDL (P = 0.001), right CIMT (P = 0.0099) and a significantly lower value of high-density lipoprotein (P = 0.04) when compared to controls. sSIGLEC-1 had significant positive correlations with right CIMT (r = 0.5, P < 0.0002) and oxLDL (r = 0.67, P < 0.0001) in all SLE patients. When compared to non-dyslipidemic patients, the dyslipidemic group exhibited significantly higher levels of all previous parameters except HDL and left CIMT. Circulating form of SIGLEC-1 accelerates atherosclerosis and provides a simple way to predict the occurrence of atherosclerosis in SLE patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Locally found Egyptian dolomite, commercial zirconia, and alumina were used to fabricate calcium zirconate-based refractory with improved thermal shock damage resistance. CaZrO3/MgO (CZM) and CaZrO3/MgAl2O4 (CZS) green compacts were obtained by mixing dolomite, commercial zirconia, and alumina with molar ratios of 1:1.23:0 and 1:1.23:0.59, respectively, and then ball milled for 1 h and uniaxially pressed at 150 MPa. The obtained green compacts were sintered at 1200, 1300, 1500, and 1650 °C for 2 h with a heating rate of 5 °C/min. The phase composition, microstructure, densification parameters, and thermal shock damage resistance of the prepared refractory were investigated. The results showed that CaZrO3 was present as the predominant phase and c-ZrO2 as a secondary phase due to the solubility of calcium and magnesium ions in the zirconia lattice structure. CZM1500 and CZS1500 showed a bulk density of 4.05 and 3.8 g/cm3 respectively. Thermal shock damage resistance of CZM samples was greatly improved with the in situ spinel synthesis where CZS1500 was able to withstand 16 cycles before fracturing compared to 10 cycles recorded for CZM1500. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Assiut Veterinary Medical Journal is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

HLA-DR/DQ haplotypes largely define genetic susceptibility to type 1 diabetes (T1D). The DQB1*06:02-positive haplotype (DR15-DQ602) common in individuals of European ancestry is very rare among children with T1D. Among 4,490 children with T1D in the Finnish Pediatric Diabetes Register, 57 (1.3%) case patients with DQB1*06:02 were identified, in comparison with 26.1% of affected family-based association control participants. There were no differences between DQB1*06:02-positive and -negative children with T1D regarding sex, age, islet autoantibody distribution, or autoantibody levels, but significant differences were seen in the frequency of second class II HLA haplotypes. The most prevalent haplotype present with DQB1*06:02 was DRB1*04:04-DQA1*03-DQB1*03:02, which was found in 27 (47.4%) of 57 children, compared with only 797 (18.0%) of 4,433 among DQB1*06:02-negative case patients (P < 0.001 by χ2 test). The other common risk-associated haplotypes, DRB1*04:01-DQA1*03-DQB1*03:02 and (DR3)-DQA1*05-DQB1*02, were less prevalent in DQB1*06:02-positive versus DQB1*06:02-negative children (P < 0.001). HLA-B allele frequencies did not differ by DQB1*06:02 haplotype between children with T1D and control participants or by DRB1*04:04-DQA1*03-DQB1*03:02 haplotype between DQB1*06:02-positive and -negative children with T1D. The increased frequency of the DRB1*04:04 allele among DQB1*06:02-positive case patients may indicate a preferential ability of the DR404 molecule to present islet antigen epitopes despite competition by DQ602. Article Highlights: The common HLA-DQB1*06:02 allele is strongly protective against type 1 diabetes (T1D), although few DQB1*06:02-positive individuals have been found. We compared the distribution of the second class II haplotypes in DQB1*06:02-positive children with T1D with the distribution of haplotypes found in in other children with T1D. HLA-DRB1*04:04-DQA1*03-DQB1*03:02 was the most common second haplotype in DQB1*06:02-positive children with T1D, whereas DRB1*04:01-DQA1*03-DQB1*03:02 was most frequent in other children with T1D. This finding suggests that the islet-specific epitopes presented by DRB1*04:04 can more efficiently avoid binding to DQB1*06:02 than epitopes presented by other risk-associated haplotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we use a smoothing-type algorithm in this paper to solve the AVE, which stands for the absolute value equation A x − | x | = b , where A is an arbitrary n × n real matrix and b ∈ ℝ n . We reformulate AVE as a system of smooth equations and propose two new smoothing functions. We prove that the algorithm is well-defined when the singular value of A exceeds one, and under the same assumption, the algorithm is convergent. We show the algorithm's effectiveness with these two functions and compare it with some previously known functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) aetiology is not exactly identified, but it is characterized by pruritic skin reactions with elevation in the levels of inflammatory markers. Despite the fact that Corticosteroids are the mainstay therapy in the management of AD, they have many local and systemic adverse effects. Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical tacrolimus ointment in comparison to topical hydrocortisone cream in the management of the AD of children diagnosed with AD. Patients and Methods: This study was conducted on 200 children with AD. They were simply randomized into two groups, the tacrolimus group treated with 0.03% topical tacrolimus ointment and the hydrocortisone group treated with 1% hydrocortisone cream twice daily during the 3 weeks study period. Results: At the end of the study, both the tacrolimus and hydrocortisone groups showed a significant decline in the mean serum level of IL-10, IL-17, and IL-23 (p < 0.05) when compared to their baseline levels. However, the tacrolimus group showed a more significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the mean serum level of IL-10, IL17, and IL-23 as compared to the hydrocortisone group [Mean differences = 1.600, 95% CI: 0.9858–2.214; 1.300, 95% CI: 1.086–1.514 and 4.200, 95% CI: 3.321–5.079]. Moreover, the median mEASI decreased similarly from 32 to 21 in the tacrolimus group and from 30 to 22 in the hydrocortisone group (p > 0.05) [Median difference = −2.000, 95% CI: −2.651 to −1.349; Median difference = 1.000, 95% CI: 0.3489–1.651]. Mild to moderate transient stinging and erythema were the main adverse effects that showed higher incidence in the tacrolimus group than in the hydrocortisone group (p < 0.05). In most cases, they resolved within 3–4 days. Besides, tacrolimus ointment did not cause skin atrophy as compared to the hydrocortisone group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Tacrolimus ointment is more beneficial than hydrocortisone cream in managing AD in children in terms of lowering the inflammatory markers, however, there is no difference on the dermatitis severity scale. Moreover, tacrolimus is safer with a better side effect profile compared to hydrocortisone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We aimed to assess seminal calbindin 2 (CALB 2) expression in men with different semen parameters as well as its correlation with reproductive hormones in azoospermic patients and different semen parameters in oligoasthenoteratozoospermic patients. CALB 2 is also known as calretinin and 29 kDa calbindin. Materials and methods: This prospective study was performed on 96 cases from the andrology outpatient clinic divided into 3 groups as follows: group 1 including 32 non obstructive azoospermic (NOA) patients, group 2 including 32 patients with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT), and Group 3 including normozoospermic individuals as controls. Semen analysis and estimation of seminal CALB 2 concentrations by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique were performed for all participants. Reproductive hormones were measured in nonobstructive NOA patients. Results: The mean seminal CALB 2 level was higher in OAT patients compared to NOA patients and controls (7.8 ± 1.30 ng/ml, 7.3 ± 0.80 and 7.4 ± 1.0, respectively). Furthermore, the study had shown strong positive correlations between CALB 2 and sperm normal forms in controls and OAT patients. In contrast, there was no significant correlation between seminal CALB 2 and any of the reproductive hormones measured in NOA patients. Conclusions: Seminal CALB 2 may play a role in increasing the abnormal forms in OAT patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Breast cancer is the most common tumor among women throughout the world. Diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer are associated with stress and depression. Self-efficacy is one of the most important personal characteristics, studied in cancer, and is correlated with depression and immunity. The aim of the study is as follows: 1. Examining the correlation between coping self-efficacy with depression, DHEA levels, and immunity 2. Examining the correlation between depression and DHEA levels 3. Studying the effect of depression and DHEA levels on immunity 4. Examining the intermediate effect of DHEA levels on the correlation between coping self-efficacy and immunity Methods: Thirty newly diagnosed breast cancer patients recruited from the Oncology Department, Kasr EL-Aini, Cairo University (ages 51.40 + 8.24 years) responded to two questionnaires: Coping Self-Efficacy Scale (CSES) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9); blood samples were collected to measure the phenotype of patients' cellular immunity and DHEA levels by flowcytometry and ELISA technique. Results: There was a significant negative correlation between CSES and PHQ-9, a significant positive correlation between PHQ-9 and B-cell count, and there is a significant negative correlation between CSES and B-cell count. The presence of DHEA has no mediatory role on correlation between CSES and B-cell count. Conclusion: This paper presents a new model of psychoneuroimmunology by suggesting an effect of coping self-efficacy on immunity against breast cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary fruits and vegetables play a vital role as food and drugs and are the main sources of antioxidant defences against degenerative diseases, such as brain dysfunctions, cardiovascular diseases, immune system deteriorations, and cancers, brought on by oxidative damage. Phyllanthus emblica is a significant herbal remedy used in conventional medicine to recover lost strength and power. In this research, the potential value of Phyllanthus emblica as a food and drug is researched. The total phenolic, total flavonoid, and total tannin contents as well as the nutritional value, vitamin C, vitamin E, and mineral contents of different organs of P. emblica were evaluated. The antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of extracts and fractions of different organs of P. emblica were determined. A total of eleven flavonoids, simple phenolic, tannin-related phenolic, and tannin molecules were isolated from a hydroalcoholic extract of the leaves and fruits. The structures were identified by spectroscopic data and comparison with the literature values as gallic acid (1), naringenin 7-O-(6″-O-galloyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside (2), 3,3′-di-O-methyl ellagic acid-4′-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (3), 1-O-galloyl glycerol (4), 1,6-di-O-galloyl-β-d-glucopyranoside (5), flavogallonic acid bislactone (6), corilagin (7), ethyl gallate (8), urolithin M5 (9), (E)-p-coumaroyl-1-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (10), and 1,2,4,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-d-glucopyranoside (11). Among them, compounds 3 and 10 are first isolated from the plant. Molecular docking was performed to investigate the comparative interactions between positive controls (galantamine and donepezil) and selected compounds utilizing acetylcholinesterase (4EY7) as a target receptor. Results exhibited the potency of these compounds against the target receptor. In summary, P. emblica has a wealth of minerals, vitamins C and E, and polyphenolic phytochemicals that may work together to treat infectious disease, prevent and/or treat oxidative-damage-related illnesses including Alzheimer's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Unusual clinical course Background: Patients cured of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) are at increased risk of second malignancies, such as lung, breast, and colon cancer. Isolated metastasis of these malignancies to the vasculature is rare. We present a unique case of a patient cured of HL who developed colon cancer and later presented with an isolated metastases of colon cancer to the superior mesenteric vein. The patient is now in complete remission 5 years after surgical excision of the superior mesenteric vein metastases followed by chemotherapy. Case Report: A 56-year-old woman presented with a past medical history notable for stage III HL diagnosed at age 13 years that was treated by splenectomy, chemotherapy, and mantle with inverted Y radiation. She underwent a right nephrectomy at age 51 years for renal cell carcinoma. At age 56, an 8-cm mass in the transverse colon was found during surveillance imaging. She underwent right hemicolectomy for pathological stage IIA (T3N0M0) adenocarcinoma. A liver adenoma was identified a year later. Two years after hemicolectomy, an abdominal recurrence was identified, and she underwent a resection of a superior mesenteric vein mass with porto-mesenteric reconstruction. Pathology revealed metastatic colonic adenocarcinoma, 1 of 7 lymph nodes positive for cancer, and clear margins. She received 6 months of fluorouracil chemotherapy and remained free of recurrences for 5 years. Conclusions: Isolated vascular recurrences of colon cancer can be cured with resection and systemic chemotherapy. Diagnosis and treatment of venous recurrences remains challenging owing to the lack or percutaneous access for biopsy and the difficulty of venous reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan is produced by deacetylating the abundant natural chitin polymer. It has been employed in a variety of applications due to its unique solubility as well as its chemical and biological properties. In addition to being biodegradable and biocompatible, it also possesses a lot of reactive amino side groups that allow for chemical modification and the creation of a wide range of useful derivatives. The physical and chemical characteristics of chitosan, as well as how it is used in the food, environmental, and medical industries, have all been covered in a number of academic publications. Chitosan offers a wide range of possibilities in environmentally friendly textile processes because of its superior absorption and biological characteristics. Chitosan has the ability to give textile fibers and fabrics antibacterial, antiviral, anti-odor, and other biological functions. One of the most well-known and frequently used methods to create nanofibers is electrospinning. This technique is adaptable and effective for creating continuous nanofibers. In the field of biomaterials, new materials include nanofibers made of chitosan. Numerous medications, including antibiotics, chemotherapeutic agents, proteins, and analgesics for inflammatory pain, have been successfully loaded onto electro-spun nanofibers, according to recent investigations. Chitosan nanofibers have several exceptional qualities that make them ideal for use in important pharmaceutical applications, such as tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, wound dressing, and enzyme immobilization. The preparation of chitosan nanofibers, followed by a discussion of the biocompatibility and degradation of chitosan nanofibers, followed by a description of how to load the drug into the nanofibers, are the first issues highlighted by this review of chitosan nanofibers in drug delivery applications. The main uses of chitosan nanofibers in drug delivery systems will be discussed last. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the study is to examine the potentially harmful histopathological and biochemical effects of 5- Fluorouracil (5-FU) on the liver and kidney. Thirty rats were divided into two groups. The control group was given physiological saline intraperitoneally for 5 days. The 5-FU group received 5-FU at a dose of 20 mg/kg b. wt. intraperitoneally for 5 days. Blood samples were collected and used for biochemical indexes. For histological analysis, samples of the liver and kidney were collected. There was a significant increase in the levels of serum creatinine, urea, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), malondialdehyde (MDA( in the 5-FU group when compared to the control group. Compared to the control group, there was a significant decrease in total antioxidants (TAO). Microscopic examination of the liver showed vascular changes, apoptosis, vacuolar degeneration, kupffer cell proliferation, focal inflammatory cell infiltration, hepatocellular necrosis and mononuclear cellular infiltration in the portal area. While the histopathological changes in kidneys varied from vascular changes, glomerular necrosis and atrophy and vacuolar degeneration of the renal tubules. It was concluded that the hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects were due to the oxidative stress induced by 5-FU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FUSARIUM oxysporum strain F2 was isolated from the soil. It was morphologically and molecularly identified. The isolate showed promising thermotolerance characteristics. This was shown through the production of permanent proteins after 120min of pre-thermal exposure at 40°C, as detected by SDS-PAGE. On the other hand, the RAPD marker revealed higher genetic variations produced by Fusarium oxysporum than the ISSR marker. Thirteen ISSR primers yielded 137 total bands, of which 81 were polymorphic bands with a percentage of 59.12%. While 18 RAPD primers yielded 223 total bands, 141 of which were polymorphic bands with a percentage of 63.23%. Notably, elevated temperatures triggered the isolate to enhance the production of hydrolytic enzymes. Fusarium oxysporum strain F2 produced more cellulolytic and pectinolytic enzymes until 120min pre-thermal exposure at 40°C, displaying 3.262 and 1.797 (IU/mL), with corresponding percentages of activation 82.031% and 73.288%, respectively. This promising yield of cellulolytic activity could be employed in biofuel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to evaluate the cymoxanil‐mancozeb (CM) toxicity and investigate the ameliorative effect of resveratrol (Res) against cymoxanil‐mancozeb toxicity. Forty rats were divided into four groups; the first group was used as a control group, the second group was exposed to Res only at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight for 4 weeks, and the third group was administered CM only at a dose of 799 mg/kg body weight for 4 weeks, The fourth group was co‐treated with Res+CM for 4 weeks. Blood samples were analyzed for hematological and biochemical parameters. The comet assay was done on liver and blood specimens and histopathological examinations of the liver and intestine. The results demonstrated that CM exposure caused a significant increase in WBCs, lymphocytes, granulocytes, monocytes ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT, and total cholesterol and triglycerides levels accompanied by a decrease in HGB, HCT, RBCs and MCV, MCH, MCHC, HDL and glucose levels with no significant DNA damage in liver and blood. CM mixture induced severe pathological changes in small intestine and liver. Co‐treatment of Res with CM improved hematological picture, lipid and glucose profiles also liver enzymes and decreased changes in the architecture of the liver and intestine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The misuse of antibiotics has led to antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, making it even harder to combat and eliminate their infections. Staphylococcus aureus causes various adverse infections and diseases, including skin abscesses, bloodstream infections, pneumonia, and joint infections. In this study, we aimed to test the cytotoxic and antibacterial effects of bee venom-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (BV-loaded CS-NPs) in comparison to gamma-irradiated BV and native BV from Apis mellifera. The physiochemical characterizations of our treatments were determined by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), zeta-potential, release rate, and Encapsulation Efficiency (EE). Our study was conducted on both levels, in-vitro and in-vivo. For the in-vitro study, a bacterial model of Staphylococcus aureus with an ATCC number of 6538 was grown in tryptic soy agar (TSA) medium, and the inhibition zones of our drug candidates were measured with the appropriate statistical analysis performed. For the in-vivo study, levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Creatinine, Urea, and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were analyzed. BV-loaded CS-NPs showed relatively better results than the other alternatives, which are native BV and gamma-irradiated BV. The results showed that the antibacterial effect of BV-loaded CS-NPs was greater than the alternatives. Furthermore, its cytotoxic effect was far less than the native and irradiated bee venom. These outcomes ensure that loading BV on CS-NPs makes it a promising drug candidate for an antibiotic alternative with minimal cytotoxicity and enhanced antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome are associated with decreased vitamin D. In contrast, high pro-neurotensin (pro-NT) levels are linked with an increased risk of T2DM and cardiovascular disease. We aimed to determine the validity of pro-NT and 25-dihydroxy vitamin D3 levels as predictors for T2DM complications; (2) Methods: One hundred T2DM, and one hundred healthy volunteers participated in this case-control study. Their Pro-NT and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels were evaluated using the ELISA technique; (3) Results: Pro-NT and 25 (OH) vitamin D3 have significant validity and accuracy in T2DM prediction, 84.5%, and 90.5%, respectively (p = 0.001). At a value of <29.5, 25-Hydroxy vitamin D3 showed 88% sensitivity and 93% specificity in predicting T2DM. At a value of >124 Pmol/L, Pro-NT showed 81% sensitivity and 88% specificity in predicting T2DM. At a value of 16.5, 25-Hydroxy vitamin D3 had 78.4% sensitivity and 68.3% specificity in predicting T2DM complications. At a value of >158 pmol/L, Pro-NT predicted T2DM complications with 67.6% sensitivity and 56.0% specificity; (4) Conclusions: 25 (OH) Vit D3 and Pro-NT could identify T2DM patients and predict T2DM complications. More extensive research is required to adequately validate this novel perspective with a large population study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on longitudinal trends in readmission rates after diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is lacking. This retrospective study was aimed at identifying trends in readmissions after hospitalization for DKA, as well as trends in outcomes after readmission, over time among adults with type 1 diabetes in the United States. Findings indicate that the DKA readmission rate increased from 53 to 73 events per 100,000 between 2010 to 2018, and low-income and uninsured patients had higher odds of readmission. There was no significant change in mortality after readmission over time. Improved access to care and affordable management options may play a crucial role in preventing readmissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) are a prospective class of porous materials that are promising in a wide variety of applications due to their outstanding physical and chemical properties. Here, we introduce a strategy to synthesize two novel phenazine-based CMPs, namely, TPT-QP and Py-QP CMPs through the Suzuki coupling condensation reaction of 3,6,14,17-tetrabromodibenzo[a,c]dibenzo[5,6:7,8]quinoxalino[2,3-i]phenazine (QP-4Br) with boronic acid pinacol ester of triphenyltriazine (TPT-3Bpin) and pyrene (Py-4Bpin), respectively. These two CMPs are fully characterized and exhibit high surfaces areas, and good thermal stabilities. Interestingly, the obtained TPT-QP CMP has a considerable number of hydrogen-bonding sites, which are able to detect sub-ppm of vaporized acidic hydrocarbons with high sensitivity and selectivity. In this study, a phenazine-based CMP-based quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor is fabricated for the first time, and it demonstrates an excellent capacity to detect trace amounts of volatile formaldehyde (HCHO). The density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that interaction between HCHO and the TPT-QP CMP is dominated by hydrogen-bonding interaction. The active sites of the TPT-QP CMP act as antennae for the selective detection of HCHO vapors over other interfering gaseous chemical-vapor analytes. The sensitivity of the TPT-QP-based QCM sensor towards HCHO is found to be among the highest (2.4 Hz ppm−1) of the substances examined, with a limit of detection (LOD) down to the sub-ppm level. On the other hand, the Py-QP CMP having lower content of hydrogen-bonding sites exhibited lower sensitivity towards HCHO, but more sensitive to benzene which could be attributed to the stronger π–π stacking interaction between the π-rich electron pyrene units and benzene. This sensing technique based on the TPT-QP CMP creates a simple, low-cost method for enhancing QCM sensors' functionality in detecting HCHO vapors with the use of smart electronic noses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-strength low-cement castables have been produced for the first time from waste of demolished glass furnaces. Adispersant of long-chain ionizable sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP, 0.2 wt.%) had a positive effect on electrostatic stabilization and improvement of the rheological characteristics of alumina-zirconia-silica (AZS) castable. Four castable mixes of various packing moduli (n = 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, and 0.25) have been formulated using the Andreasen equation. The castable of Andreasen packing modulus n = 0.25 demonstrated an outstanding compressive strength (1118.15 kg/cm2) and a moderate bulk density (2.65 g/cm3) when fired at 1375°C. It showed the highest dimensional stability and a permanent linear change of less than 0.6% at 1300°C. It displayed high thermal shock resistance (30 cycles) and high abrasion resistance (abrasion loss ~2.05% after 280 abrasion test cycles) when fired at 1300°C. Therefore, this castable can be used in high wear-rate sections of cement kilns and is an excellent choice in case of kiln instability. The results indicated that the castable with n = 0.25 is highly recommended for lining the inlet of rotary cement kilns at 1000 – 1300°C. The results open the door for the use of waste from demolished glass kilns to produce high-strength low-cement refractory castable for lining cement kiln inlets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, β-CD, ZnO-NPs, and several eco-friendly bioactive guests, namely, cinnamon oil, lemon oil, lavender oil, and vanillin along with environmentally benign pigment paste constituents were applied to cotton, viscose, cotton/viscose, and cotton/linen cellulosic substrates to develop durable multi-functional pigment prints in a single step using the pad-dry-thermofixation method. The developed one-step pigment coloration and multi-functionalization method resulted in a remarkable improvement in antibacterial efficacy, UV-protection ability, aroma property along with a noticeable increase in depth of the obtained pigment prints, making them very useful for a wide range of potential applications. The extent of enhancement in the above-mentioned functional and coloration properties is governed by type of cellulosic substrate, presence of β-CD/ZnO-NPs, type of bioactive agent as well as kind of pigment colorant. Among the used bioactive agents, lavender oil proved to be the best for attaining multi-functional and pigment coloration properties, keeping other parameters constant. The obtained results also demonstrated that increasing washing cycles up to 15 washes resulted in a slight decrease in the imparted functional and coloration properties, regardless of the used cellulosic substrate. Both SEM images and EDX spectra confirmed the surface modification and ZnO-NPs immobilization onto the selected fabric surfaces. Mode of interactions among the different printing paste constituents and the cellulosic substrates were also suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clostridiodes difficile is a leading cause of healthcare-associated diarrhea. In this study, we aimed to identify the rates and predictors for 30-day readmissions of Clostridiodes difficile Enterocolitis (CDE) in the United States. We conducted a retrospective study of the Nationwide Readmissions Database to identify adult hospitalizations with a principal diagnosis of CDE for 2018. Individuals <18 years old and elective hospitalizations were excluded. Primary outcomes included readmission rate and the top ten principal diagnosis on readmission, while the secondary outcomes were inpatient mortality, hospital costs and independent predictors of 30-day all-cause readmissions. Furthermore, we devised a scoring system to estimate the risk of CDE readmissions. Stata® Version 16 was used for statistical analysis and p-values ≤0.05 were statistically significant. We identified 94,668 index hospitalizations and 18,296 readmissions at 30-days for CDE in 2018. The 30-day all-cause readmission rate was 25.7%. On readmission, CDE was the most common principal diagnosis (25.7%), followed by unspecified sepsis, and acute renal failure. A female predominance was also noted for index and 30-day readmissions of CDE. Compared to index admissions, we noted higher odds of inpatient mortality [4.4 vs 1.4%, Odds Ratio (OR):3.32, 95% Confidence Interval (CI):2.87–3.84, p < 0.001], longer mean length of stay (LOS) [6.4 vs 5.6 days, Mean Difference (MD):0.9, 95% CI:0.7–1.0, p < 0.001), and higher mean total hospital charge (THC) [$56,015 vs $40,871, MD:15,144, 95% CI:13,260–17,027, p < 0.001] for 30-day readmissions of CDE. Independent predictors for 30-day all-cause readmissions of CDE included discharged against medical advice (AMA) [Adjusd Hazard Ratio (aHR):2.01, 95% CI:1.73–2.53, p < 0.001], diabetes mellitus (DM) [aHR:1.22, 95% CI:1.16–1.29, p < 0.001], and chronic kidney disease (CKD) [aHR:1.29, 95% CI:1.21–1.37, p < 0.001]. The all-cause 30-day readmission rate and inpatient mortality for CDE was 25.7% and 4.4%, respectively. Discharge AMA, DM and CKD were independent predictors for 30-day all-cause readmissions of CDE. The 30-day all-cause readmission rate for Clostridiodes difficile Enterocolitis was noted to be 21.4% in 2018. Independent predictors of 30-day all-cause readmissions for Clostridiodes difficile Enterocolitis include diabetes mellitus, discharged against medical advice and chronic kidney disease. Readmissions of Clostridiodes difficile Enterocolitis had higher mortality rates, healthcare cost and length of hospital stay compared to index admissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A green facile nano-finishing route was developed to impart high antibacterial efficacy, UV-protection, self-cleaning and anti-wrinkle functions to cotton/wool and viscose/wool blends using TiO2, and/or Ag-NPs, as active ingredients, along with citric acid and/or succinic acid/ SHP as ester-crosslinking/fixing systems. The data so obtained demonstrated that outstanding durable functional properties can be achieved using the following formulation: TiO2/Ag-NPs (20 g/L each), citric acid/SHP (50 g/L/30 g/L) and the pad- dry microwave fixation at 1300 W for 5 min. SEM and EDX analysis for selected samples as well mode of interactions among the nominated finishing ingredients and the treated substrates were also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary goal of this study is to prepare chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) by the ionic gelation method via the treatment of chitosan (0.2 wt.%) with tripolyphosphate (0.2 wt.%) ultrasonically for 45 min. FT-IR spectroscopy and TEM images were used to characterize and validate CSNP production. Cellulosic materials with different concentrations of CSNPs have better antibacterial and colouring characteristics. The treated cellulosic fabrics were analyzed by FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM, and thermogravimetric analysis. Colourimetric data measurements expressed in K/S values were used to evaluate the impact of CSNPs on the dyeing affinity of cellulosic materials. In addition, antibacterial activity against bacteria and fungi was tested on the treated cellulosic fabrics. According to the K/S values, cellulosic textiles treated with CSNPs (0.3 wt.%) had a better affinity for acid dyeing. These textiles also offer better antibacterial properties and are more resistant to washing, light, and rubbing. A cytotoxicity study found that CSNPs give cellulosic materials antibacterial and acid dyeing properties, which is good for the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-grade calcium aluminate cement (CAC) has been successfully synthesized from municipal alumina waste and limestone under mild reaction conditions. Mineralogical composition and microstructure of the sintered mixes were investigated using X-ray diffraction and FESEM; valuable cementing phases such as CA, CA2, and C12A7 were observed in addition to the C3A phase that was detected in the mixes with high CaCO3 content. Mix CA60 containing 60 wt% alumina waste has achieved the best sinterability (less than 1 vol% porosity) and the highest densification (~ 2.65 g/cm3 bulk density) at 1450 °C. Densification, cold-crushing strength (CCS), and microstructure of the hydrated cement samples (From Mix CA60) were investigated. The cast cement specimens revealed better density and CCS characteristics (63.1 and 74 MPa at 7 and 28 days, respectively) in comparison with the commercial cement. Conventional castables (5 × 5 × 5 cm3) were prepared from mixtures composed of 15 wt% cement and 85 wt% aggregates (40% Al2O3), where CA60 and commercial cement were used to compare the effect of the manufactured CA60 cement with the commercial one. The castables prepared with CA60 cement have shown a higher strength at 110 °C with 4.5 MPa when compared to the commercial CAC at the same temperature (1.8 MPa). Accordingly, this study contributes not only to preserving the environment from the accumulation of industrial wastes but also to valorizing and adding value to these wastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In patients with chronic liver disease, the presence of hepatocellular failure and/or portosystemic shunting lead to structural and functional brain changes. These changes are due to an increase in substances that are efficiently metabolized by the liver under normal circumstances. These abnormalities can be detected by MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Objective: This study aims to evaluate changes in MR brain imaging, manganese, and ammonia levels in patients with chronic liver disease. Additionally, to assess the reversibility of these changes post-living donor liver transplantation. Methods: The study included 10 adult male patients with CLD who underwent LDLT and 10 age and sexmatched healthy control subjects. All patients were subjected to clinical examination, routine labs, MR and MRS examinations of the brain. Follow-up MRI and MRS brain examination, as well as ammonia and manganese levels, were performed 6 to 9 months post-liver transplantation. Results: The CHILD score ranged from 7 to 13 with a mean of 10.4±1.8, whereas the MELD score ranged from 12 to 22 with a mean of 17.5±3.4. Ammonia levels pre-transplantation (mean 60±7.8) decreased significantly post-transplantation (mean 45.8±7.0) (P<0.001). Also, manganese levels pre-transplantation (mean 2.2±0.16 decreased significantly post-transplantation (mean 1.18±0.09) (P<0.001). Pallidal T1 hyperintense signal was detected in 8 out of 10 patients and regressed in 6 of them post-transplant. Eight patients demonstrated hyperintense whiter matter lesions (WMLs) in FLIAR WI that regressed in all patients after LT (P= 0.011). MRS findings demonstrated lower Cho/Cr and MI/Cr, and higher Glx/Cr compared to controls (P<0.05). The abnormal brain metabolites returned to normal levels post-transplant. Blood levels of ammonia and manganese significantly decreased post-transplant compared to their pre-transplant levels (P<0.01). Conclusion: MRI and MRS findings can be used to detect metabolic brain abnormalities in chronic liver disease patients with a correlation with ammonia and manganese levels. Moreover, they can be used to monitor the patients post-transplant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vitamin D is a regulatory factor for skin immune functions through vitamin D receptor, which is expressed on many immune cells. Vitamin D receptor is located on chromosome 12q 13.11 and has many single nucleotide polymorphisms. Some of them were hypothesized to be associated with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a genetic disease that is greatly affected by environmental factors. Methods: A total of 135 psoriasis patients and 114 healthy controls were recruited. Both had a measurement of serum vitamin D and two vitamin D receptor variants:, rs1544410: G > A (HGVS:NC_000012.12:g.47846052) and rs7975232: C > A (HGVS: NC_000012.12:g.47845054). We assessed the relationship between vitamin deficiency as well as the two gene polymorphisms with psoriasis susceptibility and severity. Results: Serum vitamin D levels were not significantly different between cases and controls. However, a significant association between vitamin D levels and severity was observed. We attributed this to our finding that rs7975232 was more significantly polymorphic among cases than controls, while rs1544410 polymorphism did not show a significant difference among the 2 groups. Conclusion: We did not find a significant difference in serum vitamin D levels between cases and controls. Yet, psoriasis severity was significantly associated with serum vitamin D levels. We attributed this to other findings that the vitamin D receptor rs7975232 gene is polymorphic in psoriasis patients. At the same time, rs1544410 was not significantly more polymorphic in psoriasis patients. Both genes' polymorphisms were associated with severe psoriasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein low-cement alumina-zirconia-silica matrices with outstanding high-temperature strength have been successfully produced for the first time from the demolished industrial trash obtained from glass melting furnaces. Different fine matrix mixes with Al2O3/SiO2 ratios of 1 to 3 were formed from the fine powders with particle sizes of less than 500 μm of ZAC, calcined alumina, refractory cement, and silica fume. The formed batches were cast with water, demolded, dried, and fired at different sintering temperatures. The experimental mixture of formula Al2O3/SiO2 = 3 presented the maximum load capacity (~132 MPa), the highest density (2.76 g/cm3), and the lowest porosity (1.42 vol.%) at 1375oC. The formulated refractory mixture from demolished wastes of glass melting furnaces with Al2O3/SiO2 = 3 can be substantially proposed as a potential matrix for synthesizing low-cement refractory castables with application temperatures up to 1375°C for the sake of lining specific parts of cement kilns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In recent decades, the rate of infection with dengue virus (DENV) has risen significantly, now affecting nearly 400 million individuals annually. Dengue fever among humans is caused via specific mosquito vectors bites. Sporadic cases have been reported in Egypt. The goal of this study was to identify the serotype of the DENV outbreak in both human and mosquito vector along the coast of the Red Sea, Upper Egypt, in 2017. Identification of the serotype of the virus may help identify its source and assist in applying epidemiological and control measures. Materials and Methods: The current study was carried out in El Quseir City, Red Sea Governorate, Upper Egypt, on 144 patients complaining of symptoms indicative of dengue fever at the time of the 2017 Egypt outbreak. Human blood samples and the mosquito reservoirs were identified as having dengue virus infection serologically and molecularly. Results: Overall, 97 (67.4%) patients were positive for dengue virus IgM antibodies. Molecular examination of the human samples and pools of mosquitoes revealed that DENV-2 virus was the serotype responsible for the outbreak. Only one pool of female mosquitoes containing Aedes aegypti was infected with dengue fever virus (DENV-2). Conclusion: This was the first serotyping of the DENV responsible for dengue virus outbreak in Egypt in 2017. Determining the serotype of dengue virus can help to avoid and monitor outbreaks. The serotype identified in this study was DENV-2, while DENV-1 was the serotype found in the previous outbreak in 2015 in the province of Assiut. This study thus raises concerns that a new dengue serotype could have been introduced into Egypt. It is necessary for a comprehensive risk assessment to be carried out in the country, including an entomological survey, to assess the presence and potential geographical expansion of mosquito vectors there. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five sesquiterpene lactones were isolated and identified from Ambrosia maritima L. Hymenin showed highest cytotoxic activity against HCT-116, A-549, and MCF-7 cell lines (IC50= 3.83 ± 0.2, 5.48 ± 0.3, 10.1 ± 0.6 µg/mL, respectively). Damsin has significant COX-2 inhibitory activity (IC50=33.97 ± 1.62 µg/mL) while hymenin showed highest selectivity to COX-1 (IC50 = 18.21 µg/mL) and significant inhibition of NO (IC50=18.19 ± 0.75 µg/mL). The docking study revealed nice fitting into COX-1/2 and a higher binding affinity for maritimolide towards human Src kinase compared to the native ligand, Bosutinib. Results suggested that both COXs/Src kinase inhibition could contribute even partially to the overall mechanism of cytotoxic activity of the five compounds. The structure-activity relationship revealed that α-methylene-γ-lactone moiety enhances the cytotoxic activity, OH group at C-1 increase activity of hymenin. However, the reduction of the double bond at C-2 as in damsin resulted in a significant decrease in activity against HCT-116 and MCF-7 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outer surfaces of scales have provided significant adaption and functional value in lizards. In this paper, we examined the microornamenation of the outer surface of the dorsal scales from the mid-body region of Acanthodactylus opheodurus (Lacertidae), Mesalina guttulata guttulata (Lacertidae) and Trapelus ruderatus blanfordi (Agamidae). Skin specimens were prepared and investigated by using scanning electron microscopy. The microornamenation of the examined species exhibited different pattern in the same microhabitat. Variety was observed in the two related species, having a common family, Lacertidae. Whereas, Agamaidae sp. showed different pattern of microstructures. So, we conclude that there are other factors, which influence scale surface structures not only with microhabitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Lupus nephritis (LN) is a significant consequence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that focuses on evaluation of serum interleukin (IL-) 21 as a diagnostic biomarker of LN activity, compared to B lymphocyte stimulator (BlyS), tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 13 (TNF-SF13), and traditional techniques of active LN attempting to compare their diagnostic usefulness. Methods: Serum levels of IL-21, BlyS, and TNF-SF13 during LN were investigated. Twenty-five biopsy-proven, active LN female patients and 15 SLE patients without active LN and 20 healthy controls (HCs) joined this work. Results: Serum IL-21 level was significantly higher in active LN group than in inactive LN group. Correlation analysis showed that serum IL-21 levels were significantly correlated with total SLEDAI (r = 0.41, p = 0.03), renal-SLEDAI (r = 0.48, p = 0.04), renal activity index (AI) (r = 0.93; p < 0.001), and 24-h proteinuria (r = 0.51; p > 0.008). Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) revealed the ability of serum IL-21 to discriminate between active and inactive LN with 70% sensitivity at >240 pg/ml cutoff point (AUC 0.809). Conclusion: For Egyptian SLE patients, serum levels of IL-21 were superior to TNF-SF13 and BlyS and correlated significantly with the activity indexes of LN, indicating a promising role as a potential biomarker of active LN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Solid organ transplantation (SOT) service has been disrupted during the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which deferred the service in most centers worldwide. As the pandemic persists, there will be an urgency to identify the best and safest practices for resuming activities as areas re-open. Resuming activity is a difficult issue, in particular, the decision of reopening after a period of slowing down or complete cessation of activities. Objectives: To share our experience in resuming living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Liver Transplantation Unit of El-Manial Specialized Hospital, Cairo University, Egypt, and to review the obstacles that we have faced. Material and methods: This study is a single-center study. We resumed LDLT by the 26th of August 2020 after a period of closure from the 1st of March 2020. We have taken a lot of steps in order to prevent COVID-19 transmission among transplant patients and healthcare workers (HCWs). Results: In our study, we reported three LDLT recipients, once resuming the transplantation till now. All our recipients and donors tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 by nasopharyngeal RT-PCR a day before the transplantation. Unfortunately, one of them developed COVID-19 infection. We managed rapidly to isolate him in a single room, restricting one team of HCWs to deal with him with strict personal protective measures. Finally, the patient improved and was discharged in a good condition. The second patient ran a smooth course apart from FK neurotoxicity which improved with proper management. The third patient experienced a sharp rise in bilirubin and transaminases on day 14 that was attributed to drug toxicity vs. rejection and managed by discontinuing the offending drugs and pulse steroids. In addition, one of our head nurses tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 that was manageable with self-isolation. Conclusion: Careful patient, donor, personnel screening is mandatory. Adequate supply of personal protective equipments, effective infection control policies, and appropriate administrative modifications are needed for a safe return of LDLT practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common cause for hospitalization associated with significant mortality and morbidity. Disorders of calcium metabolism are a frequently encountered medical problem. The effect of hypocalcemia is not well defined on the outcomes of patients with PE. We aimed to identify the prognostic value of hypocalcemia in hospitalized PE patients utilizing the 2017 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS).Methods: In this retrospective study, we selected patients with a primary diagnosis of Acute PE using ICD 10 codes. They were further stratified based on the presence of hypocalcemia. We primarily aimed to compare in-hospital mortality for PE patients with and without hypocalcemia. We performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to adjust for potential confounders. We also used propensity-matched cohort of patients to compare mortality.Results: In the 2017 NIS, 187,989 patients had a principal diagnosis of acute PE. Among the above study group, 1565 (0.8%) had an additional diagnosis of hypocalcemia. 12.4% of PE patients with hypocalcemia died in the hospital in comparison to 2.95% without hypocalcemia. On multivariate regression analysis, PE and hypocalcemia patients had 4 times higher odds (aOR-4.03, 95% CI 2.78-5.84, p < 0.001) of in-hospital mortality compared to those with only PE. We observed a similarly high odds of mortality (aOR = 4.4) on 1:1 propensity-matched analysis. The incidence of acute kidney injury (aOR = 2.62, CI 1.95-3.52, p < 0.001), acute respiratory failure (a0R = 1.84, CI 1.42-2.38, p < 0.001), sepsis (aOR = 4.99, CI 3.08-8.11, p < 0.001) and arrhythmias (aOR = 2.63, CI 1.99-3.48, p < 0.001) were also higher for PE patients with hypocalcemia.Conclusion: PE patients with hypocalcemia have higher in-hospital mortality than those without hypocalcemia. The in-hospital complications were also higher, along with longer length of stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of this study is to develop a facile eco‐friendly method for antibacterial/ultraviolet (UV)‐blocking functionalisation using various green bioactive functional additives namely neem, jojoba, argan, aloe vera, ginger, and tulsi. In addition, pigment coloration of cellulosic substrates including cotton, viscose, cotton/viscose, and cotton/linen using pigment colourants and appropriate printing auxiliaries in one step was used. The experimental results revealed that the durability, improvement in the imparted antibacterial/UV‐blocking functional properties and enhancement in the depth of the obtained pigment prints followed a decreasing order: tulsi > ginger > aloe vera > argan > jojoba > neem ≫ none, keeping other parameters constant. The obtained data also demonstrated that the developed pigment prints exhibited remarkable functionalities and depth of shade after 15 washing cycles. Moreover, it was observed that improvement in the imparted functional and coloration properties were a function of types of cellulosic substrate and the kind of colourant. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis for selected samples confirmed the surface modification, morphology changes and immobilisation of the used active ingredients onto the treated substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sialons are the spotlight of current investigation as low-cost and outstanding alternatives to the currently used metal alloys in various applications. The excellent hightemperature properties, high mechanical properties, structural reliability, good sinterability, easy densification with its low-cost processing make them superior candidates in many applications such as automotive engines, high-performance bearings, wear components, and gas turbine blades. In addition, the existence of two interstitial crystallographic sites in their crystal structure gives the opportunity to accommodate some rare earth element activators such as Eu2+, Yb2+, Ce3+, and Pr3+. These types of sialonbased materials have recently found a new promising application as a luminescent material for white light-emitting diodes. The aim of this review is to survey and provide a comprehensive look at the most relevant and significant publications regarding the development of sialons and their processing into both structural and luminescent materials. Such information forms a database that could enable scholars and engineers to tailor a final product derived from sialons with specific characteristics for a certain application. This review article should be of concern to engineers and scientists interested in the development and utilization of sialons for structural and wLEDs applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperthyroidism is associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular events and worse hospital outcomes. The Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) 2018 was used to determine the characteristics of 30-day readmission in patients with hyperthyroidism. The 30-day all-cause readmission rate for hyperthyroidism was 10.3%. About 21.7% had hyperthyroidism as the principal diagnosis on readmission. Readmissions were associated with an increased odds of inpatient mortality (odds ratio, 7.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.97 to 12.49), length of stay (5.2 days vs. 4.0 days; 95% CI, 0.7 to 1.8), total hospital charges, and cost of hospitalizations. Independent predictors of 30-day all-cause readmissions included Charlson Comorbidity Index =3 (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.76; 95% CI, 1.15 to 2.71), discharge against medical advice (aHR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.50 to 3.53), protein-energy malnutrition (aHR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.15 to 2.07), and atrial fibrillation (aHR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.11 to 1.79). Aggressive but appropriate monitoring is warranted in patients with hyperthyroidism to prevent readmissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Patients often present to the hospital with a well-known complication of diabetes mellitus, namely diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). In this study, we assess the clinical outcomes of DKA hospitalizations with and without protein-energy malnutrition (PEM). Methods: This was a population-based, retrospective observational study using data gathered from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) for 2016 and 2017. Hospitalizations of adults >/ = 18 years old with a principal diagnosis of DKA were obtained using ICD-10 codes and divided into groups based on a secondary diagnosis of PEM. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included length of stay (LOS), total hospital charges (THC), and system-based complications. Results: Patients with PEM had a statistically significant difference in the adjusted odds for in-hospital mortality compared to patients without PEM (aOR 1.73, 95% CI: 1.20–2.49, p = 0.004). Patients with DKA and PEM had an increased risk of developing sepsis (aOR 2.99, 95% CI: 2.49–3.58, p < 0.001), septic shock (aOR 3.37, 95% CI: 2.31–4.91, p < 0.001), acute kidney failure (aOR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.17–1.37, p < 0.001), acute respiratory failure (aOR 2.23, 95% CI: 1.83–2.73, p < 0.001), deep vein thrombosis (aOR 1.91, 95% CI: 1.43–2.54, p < 0.001), and pulmonary embolism (aOR 2.36, 95% CI: 1.42–3.94, p = 0.001). Patients with DKA and PEM also had an increased mean THC (aOR 19,200, 95% CI 16,000–22,400, p < 0.001) in US dollars and increased LOS (aOR 2.26, 95% CI 1.96–2.57, p < 0.001) in days when compared to patients without PEM. Conclusion: Patients hospitalized for DKA with a secondary diagnosis of PEM within the same admission had a statistically significantly higher in-hospital mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a known complication of patients with diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of patients admitted with a diagnosis of DKA with, and without, diastolic heart failure (DHF). Methods: This was a population‐based, retrospective, observational study using data from the National Inpatient Sample database for the years 2016 and 2017. The primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were rates of sepsis, non‐ST elevation myocardial infarctions (NSTEMI), acute kidney failure, acute respiratory failure (ARF), deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, mean length of hospital stay (LOS) and total hospital charges (THC). Results: There was no statistically significant difference for the adjusted odds for in‐hospital mortality between patients with and without DHF (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.28–1.08, p = 0.081). Patients with DKA and DHF had increased odds of developing an NSTEMI (aOR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.01–1.70, p = 0.045) or ARF (aOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.38–2.40, p < 0.001) during the same admission compared to patients without DHF. Patients with DKA and DHF also had an increased mean THC (6500 CI: 1900–11,200, p = 0.0006) in US dollars and increased LOS (0.7, 95% CI: 0.2–1.3, p = 0.011) in days when compared to patients without DHF. Conclusions: Patients with DKA showed no statistically significant difference in mortality if they did or did not have a secondary diagnosis of DHF within the same admission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]