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Herein, electrochemical sensing of paracetamol in polluted water was achieved using facile-synthesized tungsten oxide nanoparticles. Ion exchange resin has been used as a sustainable preparation route, while the prepared nanoparticles have been characterized by XRD and SEM analyses. Orthorhombic WO3·H2O nano-plates have been synthesized via a facile preparation method, where the crystal size has been calculated as 25–33 nm, and these results were used to create a 3D model of the prepared WO3·H2O nano-plates. An active electrochemical sensor layer of the prepared WO3·H2O has been used to detect paracetamol in water with a concentration range of 0–50 mg L−1. The tungsten oxide nanoplates show high sensitivity with a detection-limit of 66 μM and sensitivity of 12.85 μA μM−1. Kinetic models have been investigated, where pseudo 1st and 2nd order models were used to study the sensing mechanism. Both experimental results and mathematical calculations have been combined and used to provide suggested sensing mechanisms. The current investigations may be the key factor of future, economic and eco-friendly environmental sensors for industrial wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most effective oral antipyretics and analgesics, ibuprofen (IBP) is a primary ingredient in hospital wastewater because it is widely used to treat both acute and chronic pain. It is important to detect its concentration in the wastewater. Bio-electrochemical sensor is a promising detection method due to its durability and accuracy. Schiffbase is an advanced electrode materials for bio-electrochemical sensor. Which able to detect (IBP) concentration in wastewater.2,3dihydroxy-N'1-((E)-2-hydroxybenzylidene)-N'4-((Z)-2-hydroxybenzylidene (Schiffbase) materials have been synthesized and characterized.IR spectroscopy data identified (OH/H2O), ʋ (H-bonding), ʋ (C = O), ʋ (COH), ʋ (C = N) function groups. The SEM images of Schiff base presented needle-like shape with regular morphology. Electrochemical electrode have been fabricated from Schiffbase materials. IBP detected electrochemically by CV, DPV, and EIS methods, sensing rate of (2E−7 A/mgL−1) with coefficient of determination was (R2 = 0.999), into two steps sensing mechanism, which correspond to the ion diffusion process, respectively. Schiffbase electrodes shows superior sensitivity for low concentration of IBP (~ 2 mg/L). Sensing mechanism proposed upon electrochemical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red beetroot is a unique vegetable crop with high nutritional value and various health benefits, but due to the short shelf life, it requires a suitable preservation method. The purpose of the current investigation is to study the impacts of pretreatment coating with gum Arabic and drying method (oven, microwave, and freeze‐drying) on the quality parameters and storage stability of beetroot slices. Freeze‐dried beetroot samples showed the lowest moisture content (MC) (7.59%) and the highest rehydration ratio (RR) (5.47), betalain content (48.57 mg/100 g), antioxidant activity (70.92%), and overall acceptability scores (4.48). Generally, the pretreatment coating with gum Arabic reduced the degradation of betalain and antioxidants and maintained higher sensory scores of dried beetroot samples compared to uncoated ones. The beetroot extract prepared from freeze‐dried and coated with gum Arabic samples decreased the oxidation of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) compared to control. Freeze‐dried samples coated with gum Arabic revealed higher storage stability (after 4 weeks of storage at room temperature) in terms of betalain content and antioxidant activity with values of 43.84 mg/100 g and 67.02%, respectively, compared to uncoated ones which recorded 35.15 mg/100 g and 64.22% for betalain content and antioxidant activity, respectively. Generally, freeze‐drying and coating with gum Arabic is considered a promising treatment to maintain the quality and storage stability of dried beetroot slices. Further investigations including nutritional, technological, and economic aspects are required for the optimum application in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New binary and mixed‐ligand nickel (II) chelates of a hyrdazone ligand (HYQX) carrying alloxan and quinoline moieties were synthesized. Spectroscopic and analytical techniques were effectively used for identifying the composition and structure of the prepared nickel (II) HYQX chelates. The neutral nature of Ni‐HYQX complexes was demonstrated by molar conductivity studies, and magnetic moment values revealed octahedral geometry. The results demonstrated that HYQX behaves as a monoanionic di‐/tridentate chelating agent in all complexes, except nitrato C2 and acetato C4 complexes, which are bi‐ and tri‐nuclear complexes, respectively, with a unique mode of coordination. The thermal decomposition patterns of Ni‐HYQX complexes were investigated in relation to structure, and thermodynamic parameters were successfully calculated. The molecular structural features of HYQX and its Ni (II) chelates were investigated based on density functional theory (DFT) level at B3LYP/6‐311G(d,p) and LanL2dz level. Ni‐HYQX complexes were found to have anticancer action against Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma. A molecular docking investigation was conducted to determine in what way the title compounds connect to the CDK‐5 inhibitor‐crystal structure of the inhibitor EFP with CDK‐2 (PDB ID: 3IG7) in order to verify their biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaction of 1‐(4‐methylquinoline‐2‐yl)hydrazine with Alloxan yielded a new hydrazone ligand (AlloxHQ). Binary copper (II) AlloxHQ complexes have been successfully prepared utilizing different copper (II) salts (chloride, bromide, sulfate, and acetate). Moreover, ternary complexes have been prepared by using secondary ligands; 1,10‐phenanthroline and oxine. The structures of AlloxHQ and Cu (II)‐AlloxHQ complexes have been investigated with the aid of elemental analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared, electronic, mass, and electron spin resonance spectra, thermal analysis in addition to measurements of molar conductivity and magnetic susceptibility. Mono‐, bi‐, and tri‐nuclear complexes were obtained, reflecting that the coordinating manner of AlloxHQ is extremely influenced by both the nature of the counter anion and the pH of the medium. AlloxHQ acts as a tri‐, bi‐, or penta‐dentate ligand with different modes of bonding. AlloxHQ and its copper (II) complexes exhibited antitumor activity towards Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma and coordination with copper improved the antitumor activity. The biological activity was confirmed by molecular docking study to investigate how the title compounds bind to the CDK‐5 inhibitor‐crystal structure of inhibitor EFP with CDK‐2 (PDB ID: 3IG7). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distributed-order fractional telegraph models are commonly used to describe the phenomenas of diffusion and wave-like anomalous, which can model processes without a power-law scale across the entire temporal domain. To increase the range of implementation of distributed-order fractional telegraph models, there is a need to present effective and accurate numerical algorithms to solve these models, as these models are hard to solve analytically. In this work, a novel matrix representation of the distributed-order fractional derivative based on shifted Gegenbauer (SG) polynomials has been derived. Also, two efficient algorithms based on the aforementioned operatonal matrix and the spectral tau method have been constructed for solving the one- and two-dimensional (1D and 2D) distributed-order time-fractional telegraph models with spatial variable coefficients. Also, a new operational matrix of the multiplication of space vectors has been built to have the ability in applying the tau method in the 2D case. The convergence and error bound analysis of the presented techniques are investigated. Moreover, the presented algorithms are applied on four miscellaneous test examples to illustrate the robustness and effectiveness of these algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Fayoum Journal of Agricultural Research & Development / Maǧallaẗ Al-Fayūm lil Buḥūṯ wa Al-Tanmiyyaẗ Al-Zirāʿiyyaẗ 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.)

In this article, an effective numerical technique for solving the variable order Fredholm–Volterra integro-differential equations (VO-FV-IDEs), systems of VO-FV-IDEs and variable order Volterra partial integro-differential equations (VO-V-PIDEs) is given. The suggested technique is built on the combination of the spectral collocation method with some types of operational matrices of the variable order fractional differentiation and integration of the shifted fractional Gegenbauer polynomials (SFGPs). The proposed technique reduces the considered problems to systems of algebraic equations that are straightforward to solve. The error bound estimation of using SFGPs is discussed. Finally, the suggested technique's authenticity and efficacy are tested via presenting several numerical applications. Comparisons between the outcomes achieved by implementing the proposed method with other numerical methods in the existing literature are held, the obtained numerical results of these applications reveal the high precision and performance of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea Level Rise (SLR) is a vital outcome of the environmental global warming phenomenon. This paper aims to investigate the basic properties of tides in Alexandria, Egypt and to analyze SLR in Egypt over a long period to examine the differences in Egypt's vertical geodetic datum. The annual relative SLR at Alexandria between 1906 and 2020 was found to be 2.6 mm/year. Moreover, the relative SLR has been 3.1 mm/y for the last two decades, 2001-2020. It could be considered the most appropriate value to be taken into consideration in Egypt's coastal management activities. Carrying out additional investigations is suggested to investigate possible major variations of MSL in Egypt at other TG sites over both the Mediterranean and Red seas. Based on available data and accomplished results, it is recommended to regard Egypt's MSL datum as a semi-kinematic rather than a fixed one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a class of the two-dimensional (2D) mathematical models of the time fractional telegraph equation with spatial variable coefficients is considered. These models include the 2D time fractional telegraph equation (2D-TFTE), the 2D time fractional diffusion wave equation with damping (2D-TFDWED) and the 2D time fractional wave equation (2D-TFWE). The fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo sense. A novel spectral technique is used to solve the aforementioned models. The technique is based on the operational matrices of the shifted Gegenbauer polynomials in conjunction with the spectral tau method. The product of operational matrices of the space vectors is constructed in a simple way to remove the obstacle that facing the use of the tau method in solving the variable coefficients fractional/integer order PDEs. Miscellaneous numerical experiments are offered to verify the accuracy and rapid rate of convergence of the presented numerical technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper shows how to solve variable-order pantograph-delay differential equations (VO-PDDEs) and variable-order pantograph Volterra delay integro-differential equations (VO-VDIDEs) using shifted fractional Gegenbauer operational matrices (SFGOMs) of differentiation and integration in conjunction with the spectral collocation method. In these equations, the fractional derivatives of variable order are represented in the Caputo sense. As a result of the proposed method, the considered problems are translated into an easy-to-solve system of algebraic equations. The proposed technique’s error bound is examined. To demonstrate the utility of the proposed method, numerical test problems are introduced and compared with other numerical methods in the existing literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: Novel SA/PVP/TiO2 nanocomposite beads can be used as an effective, eco-friendly adsorbent-photocatalyst for treating cationic dye-contaminated wastewaters. The combination of adsorption and photodegradation processes is an effective technique for the removal of dye contaminants from water, which is motivating the development of novel adsorbent-photocatalyst materials for wastewater treatment. Herein, novel nanocomposite porous beads were developed using titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanotubes embedded in a sodium alginate (SA)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) matrix using calcium chloride solution as a crosslinker. The prepared nanocomposite beads' performance was examined as an adsorbent-photocatalyst for the breakdown of methylene blue in aqueous solutions. Several operation factors influencing the dye decomposition process, including photocatalyst dosage, illumination time, light intensity, and stability were investigated. The findings demonstrated that the removal activity of the beads changed with the TiO2 weight ratio in the composite. It was found that SA/PVP/TiO2-3 nanocomposite beads presented the greatest deterioration efficiency for methylene blue dye (98.9%). The cycling ability and reusability of the prepared SA/PVP/TiO2 nanocomposite beads recommend their use as efficient, eco-friendly materials for the treatment of wastewaters contaminated with cationic dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a novel shifted Gegenbauer operational matrix (SGOM) of fractional derivative in the Caputo sense is derived. Based on this operational matrix, an accurate and effective numerical algorithm is proposed. The SGOM of fractional derivative in conjunction with the tau method are used for solving the constant and variable coefficients space–time fractional telegraph equations (FTE) with various types of boundary conditions, namely, Neumann, Dirichlet and Robin conditions. The convergence analysis of the proposed method is established in L ω α 2 . Finally, miscellaneous test examples are given and compared with other methods to clarify the accuracy and efficiency of the presented algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The fish pancreas has been reported to be composed of two portions: compact and disseminated. However, little has been elucidated in catfish. The present study describes a unique localization of the disseminated pancreas in African catfish. Methods: The sections were obtained and used for either routine histological examination following staining with haematoxylin and eosin (H & E), periodic acid–Schiff's, or were subjected to immunohistochemical staining for detection of both insulin‐producing β cells and glucagon‐producing alpha cells. Results: Our investigation showed that the pancreas of catfish consisted of both compact and disseminated portions. The compact pancreas was embedded in the mesenteric adipose tissue between the spleen, stomach and liver. However, the disseminated one showed unique localization in the tunica adventitia of the middle portion of the oesophagus. The pancreas consisted of two portions, exocrine and endocrine. Furthermore, in both types of pancreas, the female showed a significantly higher ratio for the endocrine islet area/pancreatic tissue area than that of the male and also a significantly higher ratio for both insulin‐ and glucagon‐positive area/islet area in the female pancreas (compact and disseminated) than that of the male. In conclusion: The present study provides evidence on a unique localization of the disseminated pancreas in the oesophagus of catfish. Furthermore, we revealed sex‐related difference in the endocrine portion in both pancreatic tissues with more development in the female. The study suggests that sex hormones could be contributed to such sexual dimorphism. However, further investigation is required to compare the degree of development during the spawning and resting seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A numerical treatment to a system of Caputo fractional order differential- algebraic equations (SFDAEs) is presented throughout this article. The suggested method based upon the shifted Chebyshev pesedu- spectral method (SCPSM). The shifted Chebyshev polynomials (SCPs) are handled to reduce the SFDAEs into the solution of linear/ nonlinear systems of algebraic equations. By using some tested applications, the effectiveness and the accuracy of the suggested approach are demonstrated graphically. Also numerical comparisons between the proposed technique with other numerical methods in the existing literature are held. The numerical results show that the proposed technique is computationally efficient, accurate and easy to implement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the recently published paper [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper declares a new spectral collocation technique to provide accurate approximate solutions of the one- and two-dimensional time and space fractional coupled Burgers’ equations (TSFCBEs) in which the fractional derivatives are defined according to Caputo’s definition. The suggested method is based on the shifted Gegenbauer polynomials (SGPs) for approximating the solution of TSFCBEs. The suggested technique reduces the considered problems to the solution of nonlinear algebraic equations (NLAEs). Moreover, the accuracy and reliability of the proposed method are confirmed through numerical examples. Finally, the obtained numerical results are compared with those previously reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to study the histological structure of the dog's coronary artery by light and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The coronary artery consisted of three tunics: tunica intima, tunica media and tunica adventitia. The tunica intima consisted of endothelium rested directly on internal elastic lamina without the subendothelial connective tissue layer. The tunica media were composed of smooth muscle fibres interspersed with few elastic and collagen fibres. The tunica adventitia consisted of collagen and elastic fibres intermingled with fibroblast cells; it had vasa vasorum and nervi vasorum. Some histomorphometric measurements were performed and compared statistically. The ultrastructural study showed that the endothelial cells were communicated through complex junctions and characterised by filiform cytoplasmic processes passed through the opening of the underlying internal elastic membrane. The smooth muscle fibres of tunica media communicated with each other through cytoplasmic processes. The tunica adventitia showed minute non‐myelinated nerve. This work revealed that the dog's coronary arteries are typical muscular arteries, which show little structural variations from that of other mammals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Alexandria Journal of Agricultural Research 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.)

Novel monobasic tridentate ONS donor ligand (HL) was synthesized from the condensation reaction of chromone-3-carboxaldehyde with S-benzyldithiocarbazate (SBDTC). Reaction of the ligand with the metal ions copper(II), nickel(II), cobalt(II), oxidovanadium(IV), cerium(III), manganese(II), zinc(II), and cadmium(II) afforded dimeric complexes with the general formula [ML(Y)m(H2O)x]2·(Y)m·nH2O·zCH3OH, Y = NO3 or Cl, m = 0–2, x = 0–2, n = 0–2, and z = 0–1 for all complexes except oxidovanadium(IV) complex which has the formula [VOL(H2O)]2(SO4). Structures of the ligand and its metal complexes were established through elemental, spectroscopic data (FT-IR, UV-Vis, and mass), thermal analyses, as well as conductivity and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The geometrical structures of the metal complexes are octahedral and square planar. The ligand and its complexes were subjected to in vitro bioassays against the gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and the fungus strain with good results for some of these compounds. The antitumor activity of the ligand and its copper(II) and oxidovanadium(IV) complexes were investigated against HepG2 cell line. The molecular parameters of the ligand and its metal complexes have been calculated on the basis of DFT level implemented in the Gaussian 09 program, and computed data were correlated with the experimental results. The HOMO→LUMO electron transition potentially occurs from S-benzyldithiocarbazate to chromone moieties with 4.048 eV. The Mn(II) complex has the highest value of energy barrier, while Cu(II) complex has the lowest value among the complexes. All synthesized complexes have energy gap lower than free ligand and therefore these complexes are more reactive than the free ligand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, analytical approximate solutions of the generalized fractional Fisher equation (GFFE) are given using the Laplace Adomain de-composition method (LADM) and the reduced differential transform method (RDTM). The two proposed methods are effective and easy to implement. The approximate solutions of the two proposed schemes give better results when compared with the exact solutions or the numerical solutions in the existing literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we use the operation matrix (OM) of Riemann-Liouville fractional integral of the shifted Gegenbauer polynomials with the Lagrange multiplier method to provide efficient numerical solutions to the multi-dimensional fractional optimal control problems. The proposed technique transforms the under consideration problems into sets of nonlinear equations which are easy to solve. Numerical tests including numerical comparisons with some existing methods are introduced to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the suggested technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a new approach for solving fractional differential algebraic equations (FDAEs) by using the operational matrix of Riem-man Liouville (RL) fractional integral of the shifted Gegenbauer polynomials. By using the new shifted Gegenbauer operational matrix (SGOM) of RL fractional integral, the FDAEs are transformed into a system of algebraic equations which are easily to solve. Numerical examples associated by numerical comparisons with other methods in the literature are introduced to illustrate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of using soy milk and ABT culture on various Labneh properties was investigated. Six treatments of Labneh were made from soy and buffalo milk and from their mixtures using classic and ABT-5 starters. Labneh made from soy milk had the lowest yield, acidity, redox potential (Eh), total solids (TS), fat, ash, TN, TVFA, saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUSFA), and total amino acids contents while buffalo's milk Labneh had the highest. Soy milk Labneh had the highest level of unsaturated fatty acids (USFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUSFA) and linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid. Also, soy milk Labneh had the greatest count of Str. thermophillus, L. acidophilus and bifidobacteria. Utilization of soy milk only or mixed with buffalo milk in Labneh manufacture decreased the count of L. bulgaricus. Mixing of buffalo milk with soy milk increased the sensory evaluation scores of Labneh. Classic starter Labneh had higher values of yield, acidity, WSN, TVFA, SFA and lower values of pH than those of ABT Labneh. Using of ABT culture in Labneh manufacturing increased USFA and total free amino acids contents. ABT Labneh had higher numbers of Str. thermophillus than those of classic starter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PROBLEM Suicidal adolescents, compared to their nonsuicidal peers, tend to perceive their parents as less 'caring' and more 'controlling'-which characterizes the 'affectionless control' parenting style. Research findings are inconsistent regarding the distinct influence of mother versus father parenting on youth suicide intent; moreover, the influence of parents' joint parenting styles on suicide intent has not been investigated. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design and large sample ( N = 150 youth, 13-21 years old), currently hospitalized in a treatment center in Egypt for a recent suicide attempt, data were collected using the Suicide Intent Scale, Parental Bonding Instrument, and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. FINDINGS Seventy percent of youth reported high suicide intent. Mother and father parenting styles, assessed independently, were not associated with adolescent suicide intent. The joint effect of both parents' parenting style, however, was positively associated with suicide intent (Wald χ2 = 8.79, p = .03). Suicide intent was stronger among adolescents who experienced neglectful compared with optimal parenting style ( B = 1.93, Wald χ2 = 4.28, p = .04). CONCLUSIONS The findings have direct implications for mental health nursing interventions, signaling the critical need to engage both parents in family-based interventions to address youth suicidal behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Tropical Medicine & International Health is the property of Wiley-Blackwell 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.)

Cadmium is a highly toxic heavy metal with many hazardous effects. Selenium is an essential trace element with antioxidant properties.To evaluate the cadmium-induced DNA damage in rat lung cells and the possible protective role of selenium.Thirty-six adult male albino rats were used in this experiment. They were divided into four equal groups. Group I was the control group. Group II included rates that were injected intraperitoneally with cadmium chloride (CdCl2) (1.0▒mg/kg/day) for 8 weeks. Group III included rates injected intraperitoneally with sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) (0.25▒mg/kg/day) for 8 weeks. Group IV included rats injected intraperitoneally with both CdCl2 (1.0▒mg/kg/day) and Na2SeO3 (0.25▒mg/kg/day) for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the lungs of rats were taken and processed for single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet assay).In the control group, comets appeared with large bright heads and small tails. The injection of CdCl2 in group II induced DNA damage in rat lung cells, indicated by increased migration in the comet assay. Comet cells appeared with small heads and long tails. Statistically, there was a significant increase in tail length, tail moment, and tail% DNA compared with the control. Injection of selenium alone did not show any difference from the control. Concomitant administration of both cadmium and selenium resulted in a partial decrease in the DNA damage in rat lung cells indicated by decrease in DNA migration in the comet assay. Comet cells appeared with large heads and relatively small tails compared with those of group II. A significant decrease was also observed in tail length, tail moment, and tail% DNA compared with group II.CdCl2 could significantly induce DNA damage in rat lung cells. It was suggested that selenium could partially ameliorate DNA damage induced by cadmium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is substantial inter-individual variation in response to antidepressants, and genetic variation may, in part, explain these differences. For example, there is evidence to suggest that variation in the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) predicts response to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Environmental factors such as the occurrence of stressful life events before treatment may also be important. One prior report suggests that both factors interact in predicting response to antidepressants. GENDEP, a prospective part-randomized pharmacogenomics trial, collected longitudinal data on the outcome of 811 patients with major depression undergoing treatment with either an SSRI (escitalopram) or a tricyclic antidepressant (nortriptyline). Life events experienced over 6 months preceding treatment were measured using a List of Threatening Experiences Questionnaire, and several polymorphisms in the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) have been genotyped including the serotonin transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR). Stressful life events were shown to predict a significantly better response to escitalopram but had no effect on response to nortriptyline. Variation in the 5-HTTLPR and another polymorphism in the gene, STin4, significantly modified these effects. Gene-environment interactions including life events may therefore be important not only in the aetiology of depression, but also in predicting response to antidepressant medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of the new EGM2008 global geopotential model (GGM), over the northern Nile valley and delta in Egypt, has been evaluated. Over 305 global positioning system (GPS)/levelling stations, the standard deviation of the undulation differences has been estimated to be 0.23 m. Thus, it can be concluded that the EGM2008 is superior to earlier GGMs over the northern area of Egypt by a factor of 1.6. Moreover, four mathematical models have been investigated in order to incorporate local data sets with the EGM2008, leading to the conclusion that the first-order polynomial is the optimum one. An improvement of about 26% has been obtained after applying that regression model, and the standard deviation has been decreased to 0.17 m. As a result, the EGM2008 produces a crucial influence on integrated GPS surveys where the orthometric heights can be obtained without any additional costs. Such a practice presents a suitable alternative, from an economical point of view, to substitute the expensive traditional levelling technique particularly for topographic mapping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new series of Fe(III) Schiff-base complexes have been prepared and characterized by elemental and thermogravimetric analyses, IR, electronic, ESR and Mössbauer spectra. The Fe(III) complexes possess octahedral, pseudo-octahedral or pseudo-tetrahedral geometries around Fe(III), depending on the nature of the Schiff-base ligand used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

C57L/J (gallstone-susceptible) and AKR/J (gallstone-resistant) mice have been utilized for quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis to identify the Lith 1 locus for cholelithiasis. Abcb11 encodes for the liver canalicular membrane bile salt export pump (BSEP), which maps to this QTL and is a candidate gene for Lith 1. We investigated the transmembrane transport of taurocholate in canalicular liver membrane vesicles isolated from these murine strains. Canalicular liver plasma membranes (cLPM) and RNA were isolated from C57L/J and AKR/J mice livers, and were utilized for Northern and Western blot analysis and functional (3)H-taurocholate uptake studies. ATP-dependent (3)H-taurocholate uptake was significantly higher in AKR/J, compared to C57L/J mice. V(max) was 127 vs. 42 pmol TC/mg/s in the murine strains, respectively, while K(m) was unchanged. In contrast, gene and protein expression of hepatic Abcb11 was increased three-fold in C57L/J, compared to AKR/J mice. Thus, Abcb11 bile salt transport activity per unit protein was reduced nine-fold in the C57L/J, compared to AKR/J mice. In contrast, canalicular membrane cholesterol:phospholipid content was also significantly higher in the C57L/J mice. We conclude that gallstone-susceptible C57L/J mice demonstrate increased gene and canalicular membrane expression of Abcb11, however, taurocholate transport is functionally diminished. The latter may be due to the increased cholesterol membrane content of the cLPM in C57L/J mice. These findings may be important for the pathogenesis of gallstone formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which investigated the serious effect of insecure pesticides to the surface zone as a secondary pollutant resulting from some photochemical reactions during the sunny days. Methodology; Results and discussion; Conclusion.

Pentachlorophenol (PCP) was found to induce significant changes in the chlorophyll (a) content, growth rate and community structure of Nile River water microalgae. The bulk of algae was represented by green algae (Chlorophyta), blue-green algae (Cyanophyta) and diatoms (Bacillariophyta). Chlorophyll (a) content of algal cultures decreased by increasing the applied PCP concentration. The specific growth rates of green and blue-green algae, and diatoms reflected the variation in the sensitivity of the algal groups to PCP. Such variations were also manifested in the change in algal counts, diversity and dominance of algal groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Mircen Journal of Applied Microbiology & Biotechnology is the property of Springer Nature 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.)

Female Wistar rats were given 5 mg of 7, 12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) and fed either a control diet (AIN), a 4% cholestyramine (CHST) diet, a 2% corn oil plus 18% coconut oil (saturated fat) diet, a 20% corn oil [unsaturated fatty acid (USF)] diet, or a USF + 4% cholestyramine (USF + CHST) diet The mammary glands, tumors, livers, and sera were analyzed for lipids, de novo cholestero-genesis, and serum lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activity levels. Level and type of fat in the diet, DMBA, CHST, and length of feeding influenced the lipid composition of liver and mammary tissues. Stimulation of de novo cholesterogenesis in the mammary gland and depression in circulating LCAT activity levels correlated with the incidence and growth of mammary tumors, suggesting that stimulation of de novo cholesterogen-esis plays an important role in mammary cancer development [J Natl Cancer Inst 1988;80:1248–1253] [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Malaria, malnutrition and anaemia are major public health problems in Yemen, with Hodeidah being the most malaria-afflicted governorate. To address the lack of relevant studies, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum and its relation to nutritional status and haematological indices among schoolchildren in Bajil district of Hodeidah governorate, west of Yemen. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 schoolchildren selected randomly from four schools in Bajil district. Data about demographic characteristics, risk factors and anthropometric measurements of age, height and weight were collected. Duplicate thick and thin blood films were prepared, stained with Giemsa and examined microscopically for malaria parasites. The density of P. falciparum asexual stages was estimated on thick films. EDTA-blood samples were examined for the haematological indices of haemoglobin (Hb) and blood cell counts. Results: Plasmodium falciparum was prevalent among 8.0% (32/400) of schoolchildren with a mean parasite density of 244.3 ± 299.3/µL of blood and most infections showing low-level parasitaemia, whereas Plasmodium vivax was detected in one child (0.25%). Residing near water collections was a significant independent predictor of falciparum malaria [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.6, 95.0% CI 1.20–5.72; p = 0.016] in schoolchildren. Mild anaemia was prevalent among more than half of P. falciparum-infected schoolchildren and significantly associated with falciparum malaria (AOR = 5.8, 95.0% CI 2.39–14.17; p < 0.001), with a mean Hb concentration of 10.7 ± 1.0 g/dL. Although the mean values of the total white blood cells, monocytes and platelets were significantly lower in infected than non-infected schoolchildren, they were within normal ranges. More than half of the children were malnourished, with stunting (39.3%) and underweight (36.0%) being the most prevalent forms of malnutrition; 6.3% of children were wasted. Underweight (AOR = 5.3, 95.0% CI 2.09–13.62; p < 0.001) but not stunting or wasting, was a significant predictor of falciparum malaria among schoolchildren. Conclusion: Asymptomatic falciparum malaria is prevalent among schoolchildren in Bajil district of Hodeidah Governorate, with predominance of low parasitaemic infections and significant association with mild anaemia and underweight. Residence near water collection is a significant predictor of infection with falciparum malaria among schoolchildren. Further studies among children with severe malaria and those with high parasite densities are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global geopotential models play a fundamental role in height transformation to convert the Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)-based ellipsoidal heights into orthometric heights in several geosciences applications. The U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is preparing to release the Earth Geopotential Model 2020 (EGM2020) in the near future. Prior to that official release, two primary geopotential models (PGM17 and PGM18) will be distributed to selective members for assessment in different regions worldwide. Within the activities of that working group, the new PGM17 geopotential model has been obtained and judged over a regional scale in northeast Africa, and over a national basis of Egypt. The assessment has been carried out using terrestrial gravity and GPS/leveling datasets within a GIS environment. The utilized dataset consists of 231 terrestrial gravity points in northeast Africa, 247 measured gravity points in Egypt, and 978 GNSS/leveling stations in Egypt. Three other GGMs have been included in the comparison stage, namely GECO, EIGEN-6C4, and EGM2008. For each model, grids of gravity anomalies and geoidal undulations have been computed and, then, compared against the corresponding values at known terrestrial data. Next, statistical measures of mean, range, and standard deviations of the discrepancies have been analyzed. For northeast Africa area, the accomplished results indicated that the PGM17 attains 100% improvements over the old EGM2008, while the GECO, and EIGEN-6C4 models resulted in improvements of 11%, and 1% respectively. Accordingly, it can be concluded that PGM17 represents the gravitational field over northeast Africa in a more enhanced manner. On a national scale, the GGMs assessment has been performed, over Egypt, in two steps: using gravity data, and using GNSS/leveling data. The findings emphasize that PGM17 noticeably enhance the performance of EGM2008, when compared against terrestrial gravity stations in Egypt, by almost 55%. Furthermore, the assessment over GPS/leveling stations concluded that the overall improvements of PGM17 are approximately 54%. Other GGMs did not produce a comparable improvement level in both case studies. Thus, it can be concluded that PGM17 is significantly precise than the other investigated GGMs in representing the gravitational field over Egypt in particular and northeast Africa in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We solve the one- and two-dimensional fractional coupled Burgers' equations (FCBEs) by three different methods. The proposed methods are the Laplace-Adomian decomposition method (LADM), the Laplace-variational iteration method (LVIM) and the reduced differential transform method (RDTM). The solutions are obtained as rapidly convergent series with simply calculable terms. Numerical studies of the application of these approaches for a number of sample problems are given and are illustrated graphically. With these methods, it is possible to investigate the nature of solutions when the fractional derivative parameters are changed. The numerical results reveal the effectiveness and the correctness of the proposed methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cripto-1 (CR-1) is a member of the epidermal growth factor-cripto FRL1 cryptic (EGF-CFC) family. It plays an important role in tumorigenesis by promoting cell proliferation, survival, migration and invasion and tumor angiogenesis. CR-1 is over-expressed in lung cancer tissues, and the levels of CR-1 expression are associated with the prognosis. Methods: To explore the diagnostic and prognostic value of serum CR-1 levels in patients with NSCLC, Serum CR-1, VEGF, and CRP concentrations were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Our study enrolled 91 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) lung cancer patients (19 females and 75 males), and 31as control subjects (9 females and 22 males) from December 2013 through November 2015. Sex- and age-matched healthy volunteers were enrolled in the same period (P=0.2 and 0.08, respectively). Patients with lung cancer had higher serum CR-1 levels than the control group (3.7± 1.03 ng/mL vs. 1.08 ± 0.38 ng/mL, p<0.001). In all patients with lung cancer, serum CR-1 -1 was significantly correlated with VEGF, CRP and CEA (Pearson's r = 0.8, 0.85, and 0.5 respectively, p<0.01 for all). Comparison of serum CR-1 and VEGF depending on stage progression in patients with NSCLC Serum CR-1 and VEGF were compared according to stage progression in 94 patients with NSCLC. With stage progression, serum CR-1, VEGF and CRP levels increased and were significantly higher in stage IV than in stages I-III (p<0.001, 0.027, and 0.028, respectively). The median follow-up of surviving patients at the time of analysis was 10 months (range 4-16months). Kaplan-Meier survival curves confirmed Patients with the low serum CR-1 group (<1.35 ng/mL) survived longer than the high serum CR-1 group (≽1.35 ng/ml, p=0.027). Similarly, a significant higher difference in the survival time was noted between the low serum VEGF group (< 405 pg/mL) and the high VEGF group (=405 pg/mL, p< 0.05). Conclusions: Measurement of serum CR-1 and VEGF levels can be considered as useful promising diagnostic and prognostic markers for NSCLC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]