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Background: The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly affected management of cardiovascular disease around the world. The effect of the pandemic on volume of cardiovascular diagnostic procedures is not known. Objectives: This study sought to evaluate the effects of the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic on cardiovascular diagnostic procedures and safety practices in Asia. Methods: The International Atomic Energy Agency conducted a worldwide survey to assess changes in cardiovascular procedure volume and safety practices caused by COVID-19. Testing volumes were reported for March 2020 and April 2020 and were compared to those from March 2019. Data from 180 centers across 33 Asian countries were grouped into 4 subregions for comparison. Results: Procedure volumes decreased by 47% from March 2019 to March 2020, showing recovery from March 2020 to April 2020 in Eastern Asia, particularly in China. The majority of centers cancelled outpatient activities and increased time per study. Practice changes included implementing physical distancing and restricting visitors. Although COVID testing was not commonly performed, it was conducted in one-third of facilities in Eastern Asia. The most severe reductions in procedure volumes were observed in lower-income countries, where volumes decreased 81% from March 2019 to April 2020. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic in Asia caused significant reductions in cardiovascular diagnostic procedures, particularly in low-income countries. Further studies on effects of COVID-19 on cardiovascular outcomes and changes in care delivery are warranted.

Abstract Background Adenosine stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) can detect significant coronary artery stenoses with high diagnostic accuracy. Caffeine is a nonselective competitive inhibitor of adenosine2A-receptors, which might hamper the vasodilator effect of adenosine stress, potentially yielding false-negative results. Much controversy exists about the influence of caffeine on adenosine myocardial perfusion imaging. Our study sought to investigate the effects of caffeine on ischemia detection in patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing adenosine stress CMR. Methods Thirty patients with evidence of myocardial ischemia on caffeine-naïve adenosine stress CMR were prospectively enrolled and underwent repeat adenosine stress CMR after intake of 200 mg caffeine. Both CMR exams were then compared for evaluation of ischemic burden. Results Despite intake of caffeine, no conversion of a positive to a negative stress study occurred on a per patient basis. Although we found significant lower ischemic burden in CMR exams with caffeine compared to caffeine-naïve CMR exams, absolute differences varied only slightly (1 segment based on a 16-segment model, 3 segments on a 60-segment model, and 1 ml in total ischemic myocardial volume, p

Aquaculture production is gradually increasing to meet the global demand for animal proteins. Aquaculture employs a range of feed additives to boost fish growth, immune system function, disease prevention, and antioxidant status. In intensive farming systems, fish reared at high densities may experience stress and become more susceptible to many diseases that could result in financial losses. Therefore, effective feeding techniques that include health-promoting substances, such as triterpenoids, saponins, and flavonoids, which can boost fish defense systems and improve growth, are priorities for the development of sustainable aquaculture. The major metabolites of licorice roots (Glycyrrhiza species), such as glycyrrhizic acid and glycyrrhetinic acid, have been shown to possess several biological properties, including liver protection, immunological modulation, and antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in aquatic animal species. Glycyrrhizic and glycyrrhetinic acid, when added in moderation to aquafeeds, may enhance fish growth, feed utilization, immune system performance, and disease resistance. As a natural compound, licorice is considered harmless to fish and the environment. With an interest in licorice and its derivative as an aquafeed supplement, this review sought to provide an overview of the applications, methods of production, and effects that have been documented on fish growth, immunological response, and disease resistance when licorice roots and their derivatives were added as feed additives.

Objectives There is an increasing trend of pre-diabetes and diabetes mellitus (DM) among adolescents, and sub-Saharan Africa is no exception. However, few published data on pre-diabetes among adolescents in Sudan exist. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of and factors associated with pre-diabetes among adolescents in Eastern Sudan.Design A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2023.Settings This community-based study was conducted in Gadarif city, the capital of Gadarif state, Eastern Sudan.Participants Adolescents (within the ages of 10–19 years).Main outcome measures A questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic information. Anthropometric and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) measurements were performed in accordance with standard procedures. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed.Results Of the 387 enrolled adolescents, 207 (53.5%) were female and 180 (46.5%) were male. The median (IQR) age was 14.0 (12.0–16.0) years. 39.5% of the participants’ fathers were employed. The median (IQR) HbA1c was 5.5% (5.2%–5.8%). One-third (32.6%) of the adolescents had pre-diabetes or DM. Of the participants, 67.4%, 30.0% and 2.6% had no DM, pre-diabetes or type 2 DM, respectively. In the univariate analysis, the father’s employment (OR=1.60, 95% CI=1.03 to 2.50) was associated with increased odds of pre-diabetes; age, sex, parents’ education, the mother’s occupation, body mass index z-score, cigarette smoking and a family history of DM were not associated with pre-diabetes. In the multivariate analysis, the father’s employment (adjusted OR=1.70, 95% CI=1.03 to 2.50) was associated with increased odds of pre-diabetes.Conclusion Pre-diabetes is a significant public health problem among adolescents in Eastern Sudan. The introduction of early screening programmes for pre-diabetes at the community level is recommended to halt the progression of pre-diabetes to DM and to deal with existing DM among adolescents.

Key Clinical Message Tumoral calcinosis is a very rare disease mainly caused by a disturbance in phosphate metabolism. It is advisable to contemplate screening more organs such as testes, thyroid, and spleen in patients with TC. This study provides insight into tumoral calcinosis for physicians in the region and encourages future work on the matter. Abstract Familial hyperphosphatemic tumoral calcinosis (FHTC) characterized by progressive deposition of calcium phosphate crystals in soft tissues. Tumoral calcinosis (TC) is often underdiagnosed in Syria as it cannot be confirmed without genetic testing, which is unavailable in Syria. We present the first reported case from Syria of a man with TC. This case has findings that were not reported in other cases such as testicular calcification, brain calcification, enlarged thyroid, and splenomegaly. Determining these genes in the case presented wasn't possible and future studies need to overcome this hurdle.

Abstract In the field of audiology, achieving accurate discrimination of auditory impairments remains a formidable challenge. Conditions such as deafness and tinnitus exert a substantial impact on patients’ overall quality of life, emphasizing the urgent need for precise and efficient classification methods. This study introduces an innovative approach, utilizing Multi-View Brain Network data acquired from three distinct cohorts: 51 deaf patients, 54 with tinnitus, and 42 normal controls. Electroencephalogram (EEG) recording data were meticulously collected, focusing on 70 electrodes attached to an end-to-end key with 10 regions of interest (ROI). This data is synergistically integrated with machine learning algorithms. To tackle the inherently high-dimensional nature of brain connectivity data, principal component analysis (PCA) is employed for feature reduction, enhancing interpretability. The proposed approach undergoes evaluation using ensemble learning techniques, including Random Forest, Extra Trees, Gradient Boosting, and CatBoost. The performance of the proposed models is scrutinized across a comprehensive set of metrics, encompassing cross-validation accuracy (CVA), precision, recall, F1-score, Kappa, and Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC). The proposed models demonstrate statistical significance and effectively diagnose auditory disorders, contributing to early detection and personalized treatment, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life. Notably, they exhibit reliability and robustness, characterized by high Kappa and MCC values. This research represents a significant advancement in the intersection of audiology, neuroimaging, and machine learning, with transformative implications for clinical practice and care.

Abstract This study investigated the effect of oral bovine serum albumin (BSA) on plasma amino acid profile and growth performance in blunt snout bream fed high‐fat and high‐energy diets. A total of 360 fish (average weight: 45.84 ± 0.07 g) were randomly divided into three groups in four replicates and fed with the control, high‐fat diet (HFD), and high‐energy diet (HED), respectively. After 12 weeks of feeding, fish were orally administered with 10% BSA for 10 h, with the blood and liver sample obtained at 10 h. The results showed no remarkable difference (p > 0.05) in final weight, weight gain rate, feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, and daily growth rate among dietary treatments. However, fish fed HFD and HED obtained significantly higher energy and nitrogen retention content than the control. Plasma valine and histidine content were more prevalent in fish fed the control diet than in HFD and HED groups. However, BSA significantly enhanced this content with higher values observed in arginine and alanine content than in control diets at 10 h. Significantly higher liver and plasma Aspartate aminotransferase, Xanthine oxidase, and Glutamate dehydrogenase content were found in the HFD than in the control group. However, the administration of BSA at 10 h improved these parameters similar to the control. Meanwhile, protease, Lipase, aminopeptidase N, carboxypeptidase A, and Na+ K+‐ATPase were influenced significantly (p

Abstract Tensor analyzing-power components $$T_{20}$$ T 20 , $$T_{21}$$ T 21 , and $$T_{22}$$ T 22 for the reaction $$\gamma d\rightarrow np\pi ^0$$ γ d → n p π 0 have been studied for the first time in the photon energy range from 280 to 500 MeV. The data are extracted from the experimental statistics accumulated at the VEPP-3 storage ring in 2002–2003. The measured asymmetries are compared with the results of statistical simulations performed with the $$\gamma d\rightarrow np\pi ^0$$ γ d → n p π 0 amplitude from a spectator model, taking into account corrections for the final-state interaction. The comparison demonstrates quite good agreement between the experimental results and the theory.

This study focused on the phytochemical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of the ethanol extracts of golden berry calyx and fruits. The phytochemical analysis of calyx and fruit extracts revealed high total phenols and flavonoids. High antioxidant capacity was recorded for fruit extracts. Fruit extracts also gave the highest antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas fluorescens, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium. Furthermore, tomato paste was prepared using sodium benzoate and golden berry extract as food preservatives. The incorporation of golden berry extract and chemical preservatives maintained the paste quality indicators over the control samples. A rapid decline in total antioxidant capacity was also observed in control samples (21.6%) as compared with the treated samples (15.21% and 15.41% for sodium benzoate and golden berry extract, respectively) after 30 days of storage. This study demonstrated that dried fruit extract with high phytochemical and antimicrobial properties could be used as a natural food preservative.

Objetivos: Relatar o processo de diagnóstico de uma paciente lactente de 8 meses com anemia megaloblástica e revisar a literatura vigente. Material e métodos: Paciente de 8 meses, encaminhada ao pronto socorro após alterações em hemograma evidenciando pancitopenia (hemoglobina de 3,9 g/dL e plaquetas de 141.000 uL). Realizou exame em consultório particular devido à queixa de sonolência excessiva desde os três meses, optou-se pela internação hospitalar para investigação. Foi solicitada nova triagem infecciosa com urocultura e hemocultura, realizado dosagem de b12 (148 pg/mL), gasometría arterial inicial constatando alcalose; ácido fólico, função hepática, reticulócitos, DHL e VHS (mantendo elevados), Coombs indireto e Ultrassom abdominal. Foi notado atraso do neurodesenvolvimento e convulsões. Foi solicitada ressonância magnética de crânio para completar a elucidação diagnóstica completa. Resultados: Ao exame físico, a paciente apresentou-se hipocorada (+2/+4). Em exames laboratoriais foi encontrado EAS de 1025. Nas gasometrias realizadas, encontrou-se valores alterados de pH 7,48, pO2 144, pCO2 26 e variações no nível de lactato ao longo da evolução (de 31 para 8). Em MHC foi identificado crescimento de Staphyloccocus auricularis. As TCs de crânio evidenciaram acentuações difusas de espaços liquóricos extra-axiais, supraperitoniais, subaracnóideo e coleção em região subdural, relacionada a provável hidrocefalia benigna da infância. Ao realizar RX de Tórax, a paciente apresentava infiltrado difuso semelhante ao TC de crânio. Em nasofibrolaringoscopia e videoendoscopia da deglutição foram apresentadas disfagia grave e laringomalácia, suspeitada após broncoaspiração durante a amamentação. Os demais exames estavam dentro da normalidade. Discussão: A anemia megaloblástica é caracterizada por defeito na síntese de DNA das células precursoras hematopoiéticas, resultando em hemólise intramedular e eritropoese ineficaz. A principal causa é a deficiência de folato e vitamina B12, sendo que ambos atuam como cofatores importantes na síntese de DNA. A B12 tem participação no desenvolvimento e mielinização do sistema nervoso central. Má absorção por anemia perniciosa e gastrectomia são as principais causas de deficiência de B12, enquanto a ingesta insuficiente e o aumento da necessidade causam deficiência de folato. Outras causas incluem erros inatos do metabolismo e uso de fármacos. Os sintomas incluem inapetência, adinamia, dispneia e déficits neurológicos na deficiência severa de B12. Pode haver pancitopenia devido a hematopoiese ineficaz. Há anemia macrocítica com elevação do DHL, associada a níveis séricos de B12 e folato diminuídos. O tratamento consiste na reposição vitamínica, além da correção da causa subjacente da hipovitaminose. No caso relatado, a mãe possui história prévia de cirurgia bariátrica com reposição irregular de vitaminas, o que levou o lactente a desenvolver anemia megaloblástica por deficiência nutricional, com pancitopenia e manifestações neurológicas. Houve melhora do quadro após reposição vitamínica. Conclusão: Trata-se de um paciente com um quadro de anemia megaloblástica que evoluiu com alterações metabólicas e imunológicas, atualmente em investigação de um possível erro inato do metabolismo. Após reposição vitamínica paciente apresentou melhora do quadro.

Mohamed F El-Badawy,1,* Emad M Eed,2,* Asmaa S Sleem,3 Azza AK El-Sheikh,4 Ibrahim A Maghrabi,5 Sayed F Abdelwahab6 1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, 32897, Egypt; 2Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia; 3Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, 32511, Egypt; 4Basic Health Sciences Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia; 5Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia; 6Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Mohamed F El-Badawy, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Menoufia, 32897, Egypt, Tel +20-103-205-9964, Email Mohamed.Elbadawy@fop.usc.edu.egBackground and Aims: Reports examine quinolone resistance mechanisms among Pseudomonas spp. are sporadic in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). We previously examined the genetic bases of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance among Pseudomonas spp. clinical isolates. This study investigated chromosomally mediated quinolone resistance mechanisms via investigation of the mutations in the gyrA and parC genes.Methods: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) to different quinolones was determined. Twenty-nine quinolone resistant Pseudomonas spp. clinical isolates were included. The gyrA and parC genes were sequenced by Sanger capillary electrophoresis. Multiple sequence alignment for the translated gyrA and parC genes was performed to identify mutation sites.Results: Of the 29 isolates, 27 isolates were P. aeruginosa and two were P. putida. The cluster analysis of the quinolone susceptibility pattern revealed seven susceptibility phenotypes (A-G) based on susceptibility patterns rather than the MIC values. Also, 22 different susceptibility phenotypes were detected based on MIC values. All isolates exhibited a missense mutation at position 83 (S83I/T/F) of the gyrA gene in addition to six missense mutations at positions outside the QRDR of this gene. In addition, 82.8% (24/29) of the isolates harbored a missense mutation in the parC gene at position 87 (S87L), along with six novel mutations outside the QRDR of the parC gene. Haplotyping of the gyrA, parC, and the overall QRDR revealed six, 10, and 13 different haplotypes, respectively.Conclusion: This study documents the incidence of the commonly reported mutations in the gyrA and parC genes in addition to novel mutations in these genes among Pseudomonas spp. clinical isolates recovered from KSA. Together with our previous findings, these data provide an insight into the genetic background of quinolone resistance among Pseudomonas spp. clinical isolates in KSA.Keywords: minimum inhibitory concentration, Pseudomonas, quinolone resistance determining region, quinolones, haplotyping

Many biotic and abiotic factors influence the production of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Among biological agents, aphids are destructive pests effecting wheat yield drastically. This study was designed to evaluate the impact of foliar Jasmonic acid spray on aphid population as well as on plant growth during aphid infestation in two wheat varieties i.e., Borlaug-2015 and Zincol-2015. Plants are cultivated in pots and treated with jasmonic acid at concentrations of 0.1 and 1 mM (JA). The results revealed that length of shoot and roots decreased after aphid stress and was improved (21–24%) by JA spray. Photosynthetic pigments increased after applying the jasmonic acid spray compared to control plants. Jasmonic acid spray helped the plants to recover from aphid stress by enhanced production of antioxidant enzymes CAT (Catalase) (65–71%), SOD (Superoxide dismutase) (71–74%) and POD (Peroxidase) (61–65%). Consequent to improved defence system, plants treated with JA had fewer aphids as compared to control (60–73% reduction), 24 h after spray. The higher concentration of JA (1 mM) proved more effective as compared to 0.1 mM jasmonic acid. Moreover, Zincol-2015 appeared tolerant as compared to Borlaug-2015 against aphid infestation. The application of jasmonic acid as an exogenous foliar application showed an overall positive impact on the physiological and biochemical attributes of both varieties. It helps the plants to enhance resistance against the biotic stress and can be adopted as future alternative for aphid management. However, detailed studies regarding understanding of underlying molecular mechanisms are needed to optimize the mode for field application.

New results for the T20-component of the tensor-analyzing power of the incoherent negative pion photoproduction are presented. The experiment was performed for the electron beam energy of 800 MeV at the VEPP-3 storage ring in 2021. To extract the T20-component, we used asymmetry with respect to the change in the sign of the tensor polarization of the deuteron target. Identification of the reaction events was carried out by the detection of two protons in coincidence. Experimental data were compared with the results of statistical simulation, considering the interaction between the NN and πN subsystems in the final state of the reaction.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection is a major causative factor for several chronic liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis, liver cell failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The HCV has seven major genotypes. Genotype 4 is the most prevalent genotype in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, followed by genotype 1. The HCV genotype affects the response to different HCV treatments and the progression of liver disease. Currently, combinations of direct-acting antiviral drugs (DAAs) approved for the treatment of HCV achieve high cure rates with minimal adverse effects. Because real-world data from Saudi Arabia about the efficacy of DAAs are still limited, this study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of DAAs in treating patients with chronic hepatitis C and to identify the variables related to a sustained virologic response (SVR) in a real-world setting in Saudi Arabia. This prospective cohort study included 200 Saudi patients with chronic HCV who were 18 years of age or older and had been treated with DAAs at King Abdul-Aziz Specialized Hospital in Taif, Saudi Arabia, between September 2018 and March 2021. The response to treatment was assessed by whether or not an SVR had been achieved at week 12 post treatment (SVR12). An SVR12 was reached in 97.5% of patients. SVR12 rates were comparable for patients of different ages, between men and women, and between patients with and without cirrhosis. In addition, the SVR12 rates did not differ according to the infecting HCV genotype. In this study, the presence of cirrhosis and the patient’s gender were independent predictors of who would not reach an SVR12 (known here as the non-SVR12 group) according to the results of univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses based on the determinants of SVR12. In this population of patients with chronic HCV infection, all DAA regimens achieved very high SVR12 rates. The patients’ gender and the presence of cirrhosis were independent factors of a poor response.

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most toxic metals accumulated in wheat grains. Daily intake of Cd through food is posing serious health problems. There is an urgent need to reduce the uptake and accumulation of Cd in wheat and other cereal crops. In this study, we investigated the potential of moringa leaf extract (MLE) in decreasing the Cd toxic effects in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cv. A.S. 2002. Sowing was carried out in pots under shade and natural light conditions. Two Cd concentrations (500 µM and 1000 µM) were applied with and without MLE (0 and 3%). Results revealed that plant growth parameters viz diameter of stem, number of leaves, leaf area, photosynthetic pigments were improved with MLE application under Cd stress. Moreover, biochemical attributes and osmolytes such as total soluble sugars, and soluble proteins, phenolic content and flavonoids were negatively effected by Cd stress and were improved under MLE treatment. Moreover, Cd stress enhanced phytotoxicity as higher ROS accumulation is observed under both stress conditions, whereas after MLE application MDA and H2O2 accumulation was significantly decreased. Based on current observations, MLE was effective in mitigating the biological and toxic effects of Cd by promoting the growth attributes and mineral contents in wheat. Further experiments are needed for discovering the molecular mechanisms underlying MLE and host plant interactions involved in Cd stress mitigation.

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a malignant tumor of the mesothelial lining of the thorax. It has been related to frequent exposure to asbestos. Diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma is considered a criticizing problem for clinicians. Early diagnosis and sufficient surgical excision of MPM are considered the cornerstone success factors for the management of early MPM. Glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX1) is an intracellular protein found to be extensively distributed in all cells, and it belongs to the GPX group. In the current study, we included ninety-eight patients with MPM that underwent surgery at the Zagazig University Hospital in Egypt. We assessed GPX1 gene expression level as it was thought to be related to pathogenicity of cancer in a variety of malignant tumors. We observed a significant elevation in GPX1-mRNA levels in MPM relative to the nearby normal pleural tissues. It was found to be of important diagnostic specificity in the differentiation of MPM from normal tissues. Moreover, we studied the survival of patients in correlation to the GPX1 expression levels and we reported that median overall survival was about 16 months in patients with high GPX1 expression levels, while it was found to be about 40 months in low GPX1 levels.

Class II genotype VII Newcastle disease viruses (NDV) are predominant in the Middle East and Asia despite intensive vaccination programs using conventional live and inactivated NDV vaccines. In this study, the protective efficacies of three commercial vaccine regimes involving genotype II NDV, recombinant genotype VII NDV-matched, and an autogenous velogenic NDV genotype VII vaccine were evaluated against challenge with velogenic NDV genotype VII (accession number MG029120). Three vaccination regimes were applied as follows: group-1 received inactivated genotype II, group-2 received inactivated recombinant genotype VII NDV-matched, and group-3 received velogenic inactivated autogenous NDV genotype VII vaccines given on day 7; for the live vaccine doses, each group received the same live genotype II vaccine. The birds in all of the groups were challenged with NDV genotype VII, which was applied on day 28. Protection by the three regimes was evaluated after infection based on mortality rate, clinical signs, gross lesions, virus shedding, seroconversion, and microscopic changes. The results showed that these three vaccination regimes partially protected commercial broilers (73%, 86%, 97%, respectively, vs. 8.6% in non-vaccinated challenged and 0% in non-vaccinated non-challenged birds) against mortality at 10 days post-challenge (dpc). Using inactivated vaccines significantly reduced the virus shedding at the level of the number of shedders and the amount of virus that was shed in all vaccinated groups (G1-3) compared to in the non-vaccinated group (G-4). In conclusion, using closely genotype-matched vaccines (NDV-GVII) provided higher protection than using vaccines that were not closely genotype-matched and non-genotype-matched. The vaccine seeds that were closely related to genotype VII.1.1 provided higher protection against challenge against this genotype since it circulates in the Middle East region. Updating vaccine seeds with recent and closely related isolates provides higher protection.

The crisis in Syria heavily impacted public infrastructure as well as the provision of basic services. This strongly affected the population in all Syrian governorates since the beginning of the crisis seven years ago. The water sector is considered one of the most affected. Hostilities led to damages in the networks and ensuing water cuts. In addition, main pumping stations, boreholes and sanitation networks ceased to function. This research aims at identifying the locations and extent of damages in the water networks in Homs governorate based on the percentage of water and sanitation networks as well as solid waste management services compared to the pre-conflict situation. The research depends on utilizing the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) based on descriptive data. The information used comprises primary data collected in the field using structured questionnaires filled by the local population as well as secondary data produced by humanitarian organizations, SARC and governmental institutions. The results show decreased the coverage of water and sanitation networks in Homs Governorate notably outside the county centers while it is almost non-existent in the urban areas. The latter include the southern and eastern counties Al Qariateen, Sadd, Mheen, Al furqulus, Al Ruqama and Hisia. Furthermore, more than half of the population living in the eastern urban areas rely on water trucking. The discontinuity of municipal services and malfunction of solid waste removal trucks resulted in the accumulation of waste in many areas. Therefore, the state of solid waste management is evaluated to be mostly “bad”, while the reminder only reaches “medium” category, which means, the municipalities do not collect the waste, or collect and dump inside the city. This situation strongly increases the risk of an outbreak of infectious diseases.

يسلط هذا البحث الضوء على الموقف الروسي من تطورات المسألة اللبنانية، خلال المدة من 1840 – 1861 . فقد شكّل هذا الدور واحداً من أهم الأدوار الأساسية في المنطقة، سياسياً واقتصادياً، وثقافياً، وكان جبل لبنان واحداً من أبرز الأقاليم العثمانية التي تعرضت لمثل هذا الدور.تكمن خطورة الموقف الروسي من التطورات السياسية في جبل لبنان في أنه أضمر دوافع خطيرة إذ كانت تهدف إلى تمزيق الدولة العثمانية ، والعمل على قسمتها مع بقية الدول الأوربية. حاولت روسيا تحقيق سياستها تلك عبر الدعوة إلى تشكيل كيان إداري طائفي في جبل لبنان يكون خاضعاً لحمايتها . وتمثل ذلك عبر دعوتها إلى تشكيل قائممقامية ثالثة في الجبل للروم الأرثوذكس. لقد كان لروسيا دورٌ مهمٌ في المناورات السياسية القائمة بين هذه الدول، حول ما عرف بالمسألة الشرقية.

يلقي هذا البحث الضوء على فترة مهمة من تاريخ اليمن الحديث في العهد العثماني حيث يبحث في الوجود المصري في ولاية اليمن خلال الفترة (1814-1840م) من حيث أسباب هذا التواجد وتوجهاته وأبعاده على سياسة كل من والي مصر محمد علي باشا والدولة العثمانية وبريطانيا على وجه الخصوص . اثارت التوسعات الوهابية في انحاء الجزيرة العربية مخاوف الدولة العثمانية التي تزامنت مع الازمات الداخلية والخارجية التي كانت تعانيها الامر الذي اضطرها الى طلب المساعدة من واليها الفتي محمد علي باشا والي مصر الذي آخذ على عاتقه تنفيذ مهمة القضاء على الوهابية في الجزيرة العربية لتكون ولاية اليمن واحدة من محطات هذه المهمة التي تمت بنجاح بإعادة هذه الولايات الى التبعية العثمانية بما فيها ولاية اليمن لتصبح في نفس الوقت ضمن خارطة التوسع المصري وإقليميا مصرياً له والٍ يعين من قبل محمد علي باشا إلا أن هذه التطورات بطبيعة الحال أوجدت سلسلة من المشاكل أخذت ترهق المصريين في الولاية كان على رأسها تحول العلاقة بين الوالي وحكومته الى اصطدام يدفعه هو الاخر الى صدام اكبر مع بريطانيا العظمى ذات المصالح القديمة على سواحل البحر الأحمر والتي أخذ يهددها وجود محمد علي في المنطقة الأمر الذي وحد جهود الطرفين لمواجهة الوالي الطموح وإخراجه من جميع مناطق نفوذه ومن ضمنها ولاية اليمن .

Abstract Background Urban water sources of Khamis Mushait Governorate, southwestern Saudi Arabia, were studied to assess their bacteriological characteristics and suitability for potable purposes. A cross-sectional epidemiological method was adopted to investigate the four main urban water sources (i.e. bottled, desalinated, surface, and well water). These were sampled and examined between February and June 2007. Results A total of 95 water samples from bottled, desalinated, surface, and well water were collected randomly from the study area using different gathering and analysing techniques. The bacteriological examination of water samples included the most probable number of presumptive coliforms, faecal coliforms, and faecal streptococci (MPN/100 ml). The results showed that the total coliform count (MPN/100 ml) was not detected in any samples taken from bottled water, while it was detected in those taken from desalinated, surface, and well water: percentages were 12.9, 80.0, and 100.0, respectively. Faecal coliforms were detected in desalinated, surface, and well water, with percentages of 3.23, 60.0 and 87.88, respectively. About 6.45% of desalinated water, 53.33% of surface water, and 57.58% of well water was found positive for faecal streptococci. Colonies of coliforms were identified in different micro-organisms with various percentages. Conclusion Water derived from traditional sources (wells) showed increases in most of the investigated bacteriological parameters, followed by surface water as compared to bottled or desalinated water. This may be attributed to the fact that well and surface water are at risk of contamination as indicated by the higher levels of most bacteriological parameters. Moreover, well water is exposed to point sources of pollution such as septic wells and domestic and farming effluents, as well as to soil with a high humus content. The lower bacteriological characteristics in samples from bottled water indicate that it is satisfactory for human drinking purposes. Contamination of desalinated water that is the main urban water source may occur during transportation from the desalination plant or in the house reservoir of the consumer. Improving and expanding the existing water treatment and sanitation systems is more likely to provide safe and sustainable sources of water over the long term. Strict hygienic measures should be applied to improve water quality and to avoid deleterious effects on public health, by using periodical monitoring programmes to detect sewage pollution running over local hydrological networks and valleys.

Developing bioceramics-based nanomaterials for scaffolding is still a challenge. Three biocompatible materials are combined in one nanocomposite to fabricate antibacterial nanocomposite with higher mechanical properties. The nanocomposite contains hydroxyapatite (HAP), hematite (Fe2O3), and graphene oxide. The nanocomposite is examined chemically, structurally, and in vitro. The structural investigations showed a second minor phase with Fe2O3 which is FeO(OH). TEM investigated the shape morphology. There are two types of nanorods are detected which are small ones that belong to HAP, and long nanorods that belong to Fe2O3. Further, the nanosheets of GO are determined in addition to nano ellipsoids of FeOOH. The surface roughness is enhanced and Rq raised from 4.6 to 5.3 from pure HAP to HAP/Fe2O3/GO. The released ions rate of Fe3+ was constant for the first and second 12 h with a value of 2 ppm/h. The rate of Ca2+ decreased from 8 to 2.25 ppm/h for the first and second 12 h. Moreover, mechanical properties are enhanced and microhardness increased from 2.5 ± 0.1 to 3.1 ± 0.2 GPa. In addition, the shear modulus changed from 16.503 ± 1 to 20.45 ± 0.1 GPa. The antibacterial properties enhanced against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and reached 16.5 ± 0.5 and 17.2 ± 0.7 mm without showing cytotoxicity toward the human osteoblast cells.

Amal F Gharib,1 Emad M Eed,1 Amany S Khalifa,2 Nermin Raafat,3 Somaia Shehab-Eldeen,4,5 Hany R Alwakeel,6 Ehab Darwiesh,7 Abdallah Essa4,5 1Department of Clinical Laboratories Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia; 2Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt; 3Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt; 4Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt; 5Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia; 6Department of Hepatology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt; 7Department of Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, EgyptCorrespondence: Somaia Shehab-Eldeen, Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Yassen Abd Al Ghafar Street, Shebin El-Kom, 32511, Egypt, Tel +20 1117251523, Email somaia.shehab@med.menofia.edu.egPurpose: Circulatory microRNAs (miRNAs) have the potential to be employed as markers for cancer detection and as prognostic tools for disease management. As a result, our goal was to explore the effectiveness of serum miRNA-96-5p and miRNA-99a-5p as diagnostic tools in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Patients and methods: Blood samples were collected from 55 patients with HCV-induced HCC, 55 patients with HCV-induced liver cirrhosis, and 55 healthy controls. The expression levels of miRNA-96-5p and miRNA-99a-5p were measured using quantitative RT-PCR.Results: miRNA-96-5p expression levels were increased in HCC patient sera, while miRNA-99a-5p levels were reduced. According to ROC curve analysis, using a combination of circulating miRNA-96-5p, miRNA-99a-5-, and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) improves the accuracy of diagnoses for HCC, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.97, compared to AUCs of 0.82, 0.86, and 0.73, respectively, for the individual biomarkers. Furthermore, the present data suggested that higher serum miRNA-96-5p levels were linked to larger tumors and metastasis, whereas lower serum miRNA-99a-5p levels were exclusively linked to HCC metastasis.Conclusion: Using miRNA-96-5p and miRNA-99a-5p in combination with AFP increased both sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of HCC. Furthermore, serum levels were linked to tumor size and metastasis. These findings suggested that serum miRNA-96-5p and miRNA-99a-5p could be used as non-invasive biomarkers for the diagnosis of HCC.Keywords: hepatocellular carcinoma, biomarkers, microRNA-96-5p, microRNA-99a-5p

Abstract MHD Natural convection, which is one of the principal types of convective heat transfer in numerous research of heat exchangers and geothermal energy systems, as well as nanofluids and hybrid nanofluids. This work focuses on the investigation of Natural convective heat transfer evaluation inside a porous triangular cavity filled with silver-magnesium oxide/water hybrid nanofluid [H2O/Ag-MgO]hnf under a consistent magnetic field. The laminar and incompressible nanofluid flow is taken to account while Darcy–Forchheimer model takes account of the advection inertia effect in the porous sheet. Controlled equations of the work have been approached nondimensional and resolved by Galerkin finite element technique. The numerical analyses were carried out by varying the Darcy, Hartmann, and Rayleigh numbers, porosity, and characteristics of solid volume fraction and flow fields. Further, the findings are reported in streamlines, isotherms and Nusselt numbers. For this work, the parametric impact may be categorized into two groups. One of them has an effect on the structural factors such as triangular form and scale on the physical characteristics of the important outputs such as fluidity and thermal transfer rates. The significant findings are the parameters like Rayleigh and slightly supported by Hartmann along with Darcy number, minimally assists by solid-particle size and rotating factor as clockwise assists the cooler flow at the center and anticlockwise direction assists the warmer flow. Clear raise in heat transporting rate can be obtained for increasing solid-particle size.

Abstract The current communication is designed by keeping in the mind high heat transfer capabilities of nanoliquids with the dispersion of diversified-natured nanoparticles in poorly conducting base liquids. Here, an amalgamation of metallic (Cu) and hybridization of metallic and non-metallic oxide (Cu-TiO2) nanoparticles to uplift thermophysical attributes of water is deliberated. The magnetically affected flow between rotating disks under the impact and permeability aspect is assumed. Empirical relations for effective dynamic viscosity, density, and heat capacitance to show mesmerizing features of obliged nanoparticles are also expressed. In addition, mathematical relations also depend on morphological factors like shape, size, and diameter of inducted nanoparticles. The mathematical formulation of the problem is conceded in the form of a system of ODEs after using similarity transformation on dimensional PDEs. Simulations of the complex coupled differential structure are solved by using a numerical approach by employing shooting and Runge–Kutta procedures jointly. The impact of flow concerning variables on associated distributions is revealed through tabular and graphical manner. Quantities of engineering interest associated with work like wall friction and thermal flux coefficients at walls of the disk are also calculated. It is deduced from an examination that the addition of metallic particles raises heat transfer more than non-metallic particles. A significant impression of magnetic field on shear stress is executed by hybrid nanoparticles along the surface of disks. In addition, elevation in Nusselt number and depreciation in skin friction coefficient is revealed against increasing magnitude of nanoparticle volume fraction. A positive trend in skin friction coefficient is manifested against the increasing magnitude of Reynold number. It is also observed that by increasing the size and shape of hybrid nanoparticles thermal conductivity and viscosity of the base fluid increases.

Background: Amelogenesis imperfecta is a rare developmental disorder. This condition can be quantitative as the hypoplastic type or qualitative as the hypomineralized hypomatured type. Case Report: This is the first clinical reported case in a 14-year-old Libyan female. It describes the oral management of hypoplastic amelogenesis imperfecta using a non-invasive technique. Management aims to reduce teeth sensitivity, improve esthetics, preserve the vertical dimension of occlusion, and restore masticatory function. Satisfactory results were performed with a more preservative restoration with less expensive treatment. Follow-up observation was designed every 6 months to preserve tooth structure and to prevent excessive wear until the patient reached a suitable age for crown coverage. Conclusion: The clinical significance of such a case is to shed light on the importance of early detection and diagnosis that will help choose an appropriate treatment plan to preserve teeth structure until a crown replacement is reached. Additionally, an increase in the knowledge of general practitioners regarding the early intervention approach of these cases and their effect on treatment outcomes is also provided.

Abstract Background Successful eradication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) has great impact on the prognosis of HCV-related complications and the associated mortality. The development of the new direct-acting antiviral drugs (DAAs) has revolutionized the treatment of HCV infection. HCV core antigen (HCVcAg) is a recently developed marker that displayed a good correlation with HCV RNA assays. Our main objectives were to correlate between serum levels of HCVcAg and HCV RNA loads in chronic HCV patients as well as to explore the potential value of HCVcAg assay in predicting treatment response to the new DAAs. The study enrolled a total of 280 chronic HCV-infected patients scheduled to start the new regimen for treatment of chronic HCV by all-oral, interferon-free DAAs. According to the viral load, the studied individuals were arranged into three groups corresponding to mild, moderate, and sever viremia. Serum level of HCVcAg was determined by ELISA technique and HCV RNA viral loads were quantified using the real-time PCR system. The assays were performed three times for all participants: prior to initiation of treatment, at the end of treatment (week 12), and 3 months post-treatment cessation (week 24). Results A statistically significant difference between HCV RNA and HCVcAg baseline levels among different viremia groups was detected (P < 0.001). There was a significant positive correlation between HCV RNA and HCVcAg baseline values among all the studied cases (P < 0.05) with a correlation coefficient of 0.752, 0.976, and 1.00 respectively for mild, moderate, and severe viremia groups. 92.9% (260/280) of the studied patients achieved sustained virologic response, 3.6% (10/280) were non-responders, and 3.6% (10/280) had recurrent viremia/relapse as regards RT-PCR results. Conclusion HCVcAg is a promising alternative to HCV RNA assay. The ELISAs for HCVcAg proved excellent correlations with HCV RNA levels. Moreover, HCVcAg can be introduced as a simple and highly specific tool for monitoring the new DAA regimens particularly in low-resource settings.

This study presents the synthesis of activated orange peel, derived from bio-waste (orange peel) and its doping with selenium nano-particles to enhance the adsorption capacity. The synthesized nanocomposite orange peel/Selenium (OP/Se) was applied as adsorbents for the removal of Lead (Pb) and Chromium (Cr) from synthetic waste water as an economical water cleaning technology. Orange peel/Selenium nanocomposite was characterized by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Scanning electron microscopy results showed the porous structure of OP/Se nanocomposite and distinct peaks observed in XRD and FTIR spectra depicted the successful synthesis of nanocomposite. Batch experiments were conducted to figure out the effect of different parameters on adsorption of Pb and Cr by using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. The maximum adsorption capacity of 99.9% was achieved for both lead and chromium at acidic pH. While at temperature of 60°C the maximum adsorption of 98.3 and 95.9% was found for Pb and Cr respectively. Furthermore the experimental data was examined with Pseudo-first order, first-order and Pseudo-second order kinetic model, as well as Morris Intraparticle diffusion model where the pseudo second order was best fitted which indicated the chemisorption mechanism in adsorption process. The adsorption process followed the Langmuir isotherm model verified that OP/Se nanocomposite was found to be favorable for the process of adsorption. The adsorption thermodynamics indicate that adsorption of heavy metals ions is spontaneous (ΔG° < 0) and the adsorption increases with increase in temperature which means that reaction was endothermic in nature. This study revealed that the synthesized bio-activated nanocomposite was an efficient adsorbent material for the removal of heavy metals from waste water.

Abstract Cotton mealybug is a highly invasive pest of agricultural crops worldwide. Major agriculturists most rely on the use of insecticides for the control of pesticides. So, the indiscriminate use of insecticides leads to resistance development in recent years. For this purpose, an experiment was conducted using different concentrations of the three insecticides (profenfos chlorpyrifos and triazophos) to check the hormoligosis effects against cotton mealybug (CMB) in laboratory conditions. Investigation of variations for % mortality of adults of CMB after three days revealed that all treatments had statistically significant (P ˂ 0.05). The highest mortality was observed at the highest concentrations of profenofos 2.4% (38.55%). After 7 days, all the treatments were significant with difference in means (P ˂ 0.05). The highest mortality was recorded at the highest dilution of pesticide profenofos 2.4% (77.11%). The values of fecundity and longevity exposed a valid difference among treatments (P ˂ 0.05). Maximum fecundity was observed at the concentration 2.4% (181.41%) and longevity showed (38.46%). The highest mortality was observed at a concentration of triazophos 4% (27.98%). For chlorpyriphos the highest mortality was examined at concentration 4% (24.79%). The fecundity showed a statistically significant difference for different concentrations of triazophos and chlorpyriphos (P ˂ 0.05). The results of the recent study provide valuable information regarding the selection of insecticides and hormoligosis effects. The study can be helpful in the implications of integrated pest management of P. solenopsis.

The peachfruit fly, Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) is a polyphagous pest in nature, belonging to order, Diptera and their respective family is Tephritidae. It mostly feeds on different crops, vegetables and fruits. Different traditional chemical insecticides have been used to control this notorious pest. Excessive consumption of pesticides has become a major threat to the fresh fruits trade since many importing countries refused to accept the shipments due to public health and environmental concerns. There is a growing trend to control these pests using the most effective biological control methods and other preventive measures have been adopted for reducing their attacks. Fungal agents have been used as biological agents to manage the attack of different insects pest through biological means. The present study was conducted to assess the virulence of three entomopathogenic fungi, Metarhizium anisopliae, Beauveria bassiana and Verticillium lecanii, against Bactrocera zonata stages under different laboratory conditions. The results showed that B. bassiana and M. anisopliae were more effective in pathogenicity and potentially kill at all stages of B. zonata as compared to V. lecanii. The highest mortality rate for the third larval instar and the pupal stage were recorded after exposure to the 1 × 1010 conidia/ml concentrations, B. bassiana, with 68.67% and 89.67%, respectively. Adult B. zonata flies were the most susceptible to all entomopathogenic fungi. However, M. anisopliae was more virulent against B. zonata adult flies than B. bassiana and V. lecanii at 1 × 1010 conidial concentration. Therefore, the entomopathogenic fungi B. bassiana and M. anisopliae can be used as an cost effective bio-insecticide in the integrated pest management programs to control B. zonata. This study will be helpful to overcome this pest through biological control means.

Background and Objectives: Following an injury, upper-body strength and proprioception training is typically suggested. To our understanding, no prior research has looked into the impact of balance training on upper-body strength and stability. So, this study investigated the effects of Biodex balance training on enhancing the dynamic stability, strength, and function of the upper quarter (UQ) in recreational weightlifters. Materials and Methods: Fifty male weightlifters were randomly assigned into two groups. The experimental group received an upper-extremity Biodex balance training program three times/week for eight weeks, while the control group underwent a regular weightlifting training routine. Pre- and post-test scores of the upper-quarter dynamic stability, strength, and function were measured for both groups using the shoulder active repositioning accuracy test, two-minute push-up test, and the upper-quarter Y-balance test (UQ-YBT) and one-arm hop test, respectively. Results: Post-test values were significantly greater for the normalized UQ-YBT test than pre-test values in both groups (p < 0.05). Post-test values of the experimental group were significantly greater than the control group (p < 0.05). Regarding the shoulder active repositioning accuracy test and the time of the one-arm hop test, post-test values were significantly lower than pre-test values for both groups (p < 0.05), and post-test values of the experimental group were significantly lower than those of the control group (p < 0.05). The post-test value of the two-minute push-up test of each group was significantly higher than the pre-test value (p < 0.05), without any significant difference between both groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Adding upper-body Biodex balance training to a regular weightlifting training routine was effective in enhancing the upper quarter′s dynamic stability and function.

Nanotechnology has become a dire need of the current era and the green synthesis of nanoparticles offers several advantages over other methods. Nanobiotechnology is an emerging field that contributes to many domains of human life, such as the formulation of nanoscale drug systems or nanomedicine for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Medicinal plants are the main sources of lead compounds, drug candidates and drugs. This work reports the green synthesis of Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the aqueous bark extract of Zanthozylum armatum, which was confirmed by a UV absorption at 457 nm. XRD analysis revealed an average size of 18.27 nm and SEM showed the particles’ spherical shape, with few irregularly shaped particles due to the aggregation of the AgNPs. FT-IR revealed the critical functional groups of phytochemicals which acted as reducing and stabilizing agents. The bark extract showed rich flavonoids (333 mg RE/g) and phenolic contents (82 mg GAE/g), which were plausibly responsible for its high antioxidant potency (IC50 = 14.61 µg/mL). Extract-loaded AgNPs exhibited the highest but equal inhibition against E. coli and P. aeruginosa (Z.I. 11.0 mm), whereas methanolic bark extract inhibited to a lesser extent, but equally to both pathogens (Z.I. 6.0 mm). The aqueous bark extract inhibited P. aeruginosa (Z.I. 9.0 mm) and (Z.I. 6.0 mm) E. coli. These findings—especially the biosynthesis of spherical AgNPs of 18.27 nm—provide promise for further investigation and for the development of commercializable biomedical products.

In this work, spent bleaching clay (SBC) was treated with ethyl acetate and impregnation with 3-amino-5-hydroxypyrazole (AHIBC) that utilized as economical sorbent material. The uptake of yttrium ions from aqueous solution using AHIBC was studied under batch process as a function of pH of the solution, contact time, adsorbent dosage, Yttrium ions concentration, and ambient temperature. The adsorption equilibrium was achieved at the value of pH = 6.0 and agitation time of 60 min at room temperature. The utmost adsorption capacity of Y(III) ions on AHIBC was 171.32 mg·g−1. Kinetic, isotherm, and thermodynamic models were applied to the experimental data obtained. Adsorption follows a pseudo–second–order kinetic model, while the adsorption isotherm fits the Langmuir model. A negative value of Gibbs free energy ΔG° revealed that the adsorption of the Y ions on the AHIBC adsorbent was spontaneously in nature. In addition, the electrostatic interaction process between the metal ions and AHIBC was favorable. The negative value of ΔH° states that Y ions adsorption was an exothermic process. Desorption efficiency reduced from 97% to 80% after eight consecutive rounds.

A set of lab-scale experiments were designed and conducted to remedy Direct Blue 15 (DB15) dye using nontoxic halloysite nanotubes (HNT) with the view to be utilized in a textile industrial effluent (TIE). The DB15 adsorbed-HNT “sludge” was used as a reinforcing agent and plastic waste to fabricate the composite. To advance the knowledge and further understand the chemical phenomena associated with DB15 adsorption on HNT, different factors like pH value, adsorbate initial concentration, adsorbent dosage, and temperature on the composite were affected experimentally tested. To estimate the adsorption capacity of HNT, nine isotherm models were applied, and it was identified that the Brouers–Sotolongo adsorption isotherm model represented the best accuracy for predicting the adsorption behavior of the HNT. Likewise, the pseudo-second-order reaction was the predominant mechanism for the overall rate of the multi-step dye adsorption process. Additionally, it was demonstrated that the mass transfer during the process is diffusion-controlled, and thermodynamic assessments showed that the process is physisorption.

The first-ever use of halloysite nanotube (HNT), a relatively low-cost nanomaterial abundantly available with minor toxicity for removing brilliant green dye from aqueous media, is reported. The factors affecting adsorption were studied by assessing the adsorption capacity, kinetics, and equilibrium thermodynamic properties. All the experiments were designed at a pH level of around 7. The Redlich-Peterson isotherm model fits best amongst the nine isotherm models studied. The kinetic studies data confirmed a pseudo model of the second order. Robotic investigations propose a rate-controlling advance being overwhelmed by intraparticle dispersion. The adsorbent features were interpreted using infrared spectroscopy and electron microscopy. Process optimization was carried out using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) through a dual section Fractional Factorial Experimental Design to contemplate the impact of boundaries on the course of adsorption. The examination of fluctuation (ANOVA) was utilized to consider the joined impact of the boundaries. The possibilities of the use of dye adsorbing HNT (“sludge”) for the fabrication of the composites using plastic waste are suggested.

The photoproduction of π0-mesons from the nucleon and deuteron has been studied for incidents of photon energies up to 1.5 GeV. By using the MAID-2007 model for the process on the nucleon, we predict results for the unpolarized and helicity-dependent total cross sections of the semi-exclusive reaction γd→π0X (X=np+d) with the inclusion of rescattering effects. We find that rescattering effects yield a substantially large contribution. The extracted results are compared with the available experimental data and a satisfactory agreement is obtained. In addition, the contribution of γd→π0X (X=np+d) to the finite GDH integral has been evaluated by explicit integration up to 1.5 GeV and a total value of 256.96 µb has been obtained. Convergence of the GDH integral has been reached.

Cigarette smoking has a destructive effect on the extracellular matrix (ECM), so it is considered the most important risk factor for the development of emphysema as it leads to recruitment of activated macrophages and neutrophils in the lung leading to release of proteolytic enzymes as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) or an imbalance between MMPs and the tissue inhibitors of MMP (TIMPs), playing a role in the pathogenesis of emphysema. Aim of the work: The aim of this work was to evaluate the level of MMP-9 and tissue TIMP-1 in bronchoalveolar lavage of apparently healthy smokers. Methods and results: MMP-9 and TIMP-1 levels were measured by ELISA in BAL in 10 healthy controls, 15 apparently healthy smokers and 15 emphysematous patients. Smokers and COPD patients had a higher concentration of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 compared with controls. The ratio of MMP-9 to TIMP-1 was significantly higher in the emphysema group than the two other groups. Also the smoker group was higher than the control group but without statistic significant difference. Conclusions: Healthy smokers had a higher concentration of total MMP-9 and that concentration was correlated with their exposure to tobacco smoke. Maintenance of normal MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio in healthy smokers may explain the absence of progressive airway obstruction. Measurement of active MMP-9 concentration could be useful for assessment of airway remodeling.