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Abstract Background Burnout syndrome is marked by three primary domains: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment. This study assessed the prevalence of burnout syndrome among anesthesiologists, anesthesia technicians, and intensive care unit (ICU) nurses in Palestinian hospitals. In addition, this study also sought to assess associations and identify the factors that can predict higher burnout among anesthesiologists, anesthesia technicians, and ICU nurses. Methods This study was conducted in a cross-sectional design using a questionnaire between October 2023 and December 2023. The questionnaire collected the demographic variables of the healthcare providers, their living conditions, lifestyle, working conditions, job satisfaction, and intention to change the profession. The healthcare providers were included from 12 different hospitals. Burnout syndrome was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey for Medical Personnel (MBI-HSS-MP). Results A total of 250 healthcare providers were invited to participate in this study, of those, 212 completed the questionnaire, giving a response rate of 84.8%. Of the healthcare providers, 72 (34.0%) were anesthesiologists, 41 (19.3%) were anesthesia technicians, and 99 (46.7%) were ICU nurses. Of all healthcare providers, 151 (71.2%) reported emotional exhaustion, 125 (59%) reported depersonalization and 145 (68.4%) reported a lack of personal achievement based on the MBI-HSS-MP criteria for burnout. Multiple linear regression showed that higher emotional exhaustion scores could be predicted by the number of working hours per day (p-value = 0.039) and higher depersonalization scores could be predicted by having children (p-value = 0.001). On the other hand, lower personal achievement scores could be predicted by having children (p-value = 0.006), not owning a car (p-value = 0.036), and having more night shifts (p-value = 0.049). Conclusions The findings of this study indicated that burnout syndrome was prevalent among anesthesiologists, anesthesia technicians, and ICU nurses in Palestinian hospitals. Healthcare authorities and professional bodies should consider designing interventions to reduce burnout and improve the psychological well-being of anesthesiologists, anesthesia technicians, and ICU nurses. Further studies are required to identify the most effective interventions for reducing burnout among anesthesiologists, anesthesia technicians, and ICU nurses in Palestine.

Abstract Selective and sensitive sarcosine detection is crucial due to its recent endorsement as a prostate cancer (PCa) biomarker in clinical diagnosis. The reduced graphene oxide-cobalt nickel tungsten boron oxides (CoNiWBO/rGO) nanocomposite is developed as a non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor for sarcosine detection in PCa patients’ serum. CoNiWBO/rGO is synthesized by the chemical reduction method via a one-pot reduction method followed by calcination at 500 °C under a nitrogen environment for 2 h and characterized by UV-Vis, XRD, TGA, and SEM. CoNiWBO/rGO is then deposited on a glassy carbon electrode, and sarcosine sensing parameters are optimized, including concentration and pH. This non-enzymatic sensor is employed to directly determine sarcosine in serum samples. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) are employed to monitor the electrochemical behavior where sarcosine binding leads to oxidation. Chronoamperometric studies show the stability of the developed sensor. The results demonstrate a wide linear range from 0.1 to 50 µM and low limits of detection, i.e., 0.04 µM and 0.07 µM using DPV and LSV respectivel. Moreover, the calculated recovery of sarcosine in human serum of prostate cancer patients is 78–96%. The developed electrochemical sensor for sarcosine detection can have potential applications in clinical diagnosis.

In response to the escalating global demand for energy spurred by industrialization, nations are increasingly turning to alterna-tive fuel sources. Among these alternatives, hydrogen stands out for its remarkable efficiency and environmental benefits. With its potential to significantly reduce fuel consumption and air pollution, particularly in the transportation sector, hydrogen has garnered widespread attention as a promising solution to our energy challenges. This study focuses on the development of a dynamic model for an internal combustion engine powered by hydrogen (H2-ICE). By intricately dissecting and modeling the various components of the engine and their interactions, we aim to create a comprehensive simulation platform. This platform will enable us to accurately predict and analyze the performance of H2-ICE under different operating conditions. Through the utilization of advanced simulation tools like Matlab Simulink, we can validate the efficacy and reliability of our model, providing valuable insights into the behaviour of hydrogen-powered engines. Furthermore, the implications of this research extend beyond mere simulation. The developed model opens up avenues for further exploration and innovation in the field of hydrogen propul-sion. For instance, it lays the groundwork for the development of sophisticated control systems tailored specifically for H2-ICE applications. Additionally, the effectiveness of the proposed model in terms of air intake dynamics, pressure, temperature, fuel injection response, combustion efficiency, and overall engine performance, such as power output, torque, and engine velocity are illustrated through simulation results using Matlab Simulink.

The work describes the synthesis and spectral investigation of cobalt(II), nickel(II), copper(II), and zinc(II) complexes with (E)-4-((4-nitrobenzylidene)amino)-5-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol (L). The new ligand was synthesized through three steps, first the preparation of 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenylhydrazide salt, the ring closure of potassium hydrazide salt with excess of hydrazine hydrate followed by condensation of the derivative 4-amino-5-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol with 4-nitrobenzaldehyde in glacial acetic acid. The physical and spectroscopic properties of the ligand and its complexes were well investigated and theoretically studied. The experimental results were compatible with their expected compositions. Based on the spectral data, metal complexes with coordination numbers 6 and 4 were proposed, with L functioning as a bidentate ligand. The metal complexes displayed an octahedral geometry around bivalent cobalt, nickel, and zinc tetrahedral environment. Density functional theory calculations (DFT) were conducted to investigate the geometry optimization of the synthesized ligand L and its Co(II) complex and to confirm the structure of the ligand by comparing its experimental vibrational and NMR spectra with the corresponding DFT calculated spectra. The DFT results revealed the participation of nitrogen and sulfur atoms of imine and thione groups in coordination with the metal ions beside the good agreement with the experimental data of elemental analyses and spectroscopic measurements.

هدفت هذه الدراسة التعرف على أثر استخدام استراتيجية البنتاجرام في تعلم بعض المسكات بالمصارعة الحرة لدى الطلاب، وتم استعمال المنهج التجريبي، حيث اجرت الدراسة على عينة بلغت 40 طالبا مسجلين لمساق المصارعة، حيث تم اختيار العينة بالطريقة العمدية، وتم اعداد برنامج تعليمي باستعمال انموذج (استراتيجية) البنتاجرام. وعليه تم الاستنتاج: استراتيجية البنتاجرام حقق الاهداف التعليمة وساعد في تعلم بعض المسكات بالمصارعة الحرة للطلاب، وتم التوصية: اعتماد استراتيجية البنتاجرام لأنه حقق الاهداف التعليمة وساعد في تعلم بعض المسكات بالمصارعة الحرة للطلاب.

المقدمة:يعتبر التعرض للتدخين السلبي عامل خطر كبير على صحة الأطفال، يحتوي التدخين السلبي على أكثر من 4000 مركب كيميائي والتي يؤدي التعرض لها أو استنشاقها لحدوث تبدلات مرضية في المشعرات الدموية، وهذه التبدلات ربما ترتبط مع عامل خطر لتطور العديد من الأمراض. الهدف: تهدف الدراسة إلى تقييم تأثير التدخين السلبي على المشعرات الدموية عند الأطفال. طرق الدراسة:دراسة رصدية (دراسة حالات وشواهد) تم أجراؤها خلال الفترة الزمنية الممتدة من (شهر تشرين الأول 2022– تشرين الأول 2023) في مستشفى تشرين الجامعي باللاذقية -سوريا. شملت الدراسة 412 طفلاً تراوحت أعمارهم بين (8-12) سنة ممن حققوا معايير الاشتمال في البحث، تم تقسيمهم إلى مجموعتين: المجموعة الأولى تتضمن 66 طفلاً مع قصة تعرض للتدخين السلبي من قبل الأهل داخل المنزل، المجموعة الثانية وتتضمن 58 وليداً بدون قصة تعرض للتدخين السلبي. تم إجراء تحاليل دموية لجميع الأطفال تتضمن تعداد عام وصيغة (CBC)، ملف الشحوم الدموية. النتائج:أظهرت النتائج أن مجموعة الأطفال مع قصة تعرض للتدخين السلبي لديهم ارتفاع هام احصائياً بقيم الخضاب (p=0,042)، تعداد الكريات البيضاء(p10,5 (×10e⁹/L) (ORs=3,3) (HDL

In this research, the integration of an alkaline electrolyzer system with a photovoltaic (PV) array is explored to facilitate the green production of hydrogen. By directly coupling these two technologies, solar energy is harnessed to drive the electrolysis process, consequently generating hydrogen as a sustainable energy carrier. To enable accurate simulation and analysis of the integrated system, a novel methodology is introduced for identifying and quantifying the various parameters crucial for under-standing the electrical behavior of the alkaline electrolyzer system. Through this method, the interplay between the PV array's output and the electrolyzer's operation can be comprehensively captured, allowing for precise modeling of the overall system dynamics. Moreover, mathematical equations are established to provide insights into the anticipated quantities of hydrogen gen-erated by the electrolyzer system under different operating conditions. These equations serve as predictive tools, offering valuable insights into the system's performance and efficiency, essential for optimizing its design and operation. The proposed methodol-ogy and equations are implemented and validated using the MATLAB/Simulink environment, a powerful tool for simulating complex systems. By leveraging this platform, the integrated PV-electrolyzer system can be simulated with high fidelity, captur-ing its dynamic behavior and performance characteristics under varying scenarios. The promotion of renewable energy-based solutions for sustainable hydrogen production is aimed to be facilitated by this research, thereby contributing to the transition towards a greener and more resilient energy future.

The northeast of Morocco is known for many hot water aquifers that emerge at Liasic formations which are the source of the primary thermal springs. In this region of Morocco, the geothermal gradient and heat flow are in relationship with the upward water circulation from Neogene volcanism at depth to the surface of their path through the area's tectonic fractures. Studies on thermal characteristics have revealed promising potential. However, no study has been carried out to estimate the possible exploitation of geothermal energy at the origin of thermal manifestations on the surface. In this paper, we model the geothermal potential stored in thermal reservoirs, using the volumetric method to evaluate and model the power potential through frequency distribution results by Monte Carlo simulation with Python. The model reveals a promising result for the Beni Snassen-Triffa and Eastern Rif areas an advantage for power generation and they could initially support 36-47.4 MWe and 10.6-13.9 MWe power plant respectively for 25 years.

Capturing the mobility behavior of moving entities from their traces is a prominent theme in mobility data science. Stop@ supports behavior analysis by providing a generic framework for the mining of stop-move patterns in spatial trajectories across animal and human mobility scenarios. The framework is built around a stop detection method, successfully used in diverse applications in animal ecology. The method has been recently validated against accurate ground truth stops collected in a museum, proving to be effective and robust, also for the study of human mobility. Stop@ provides a rich set of functionalities to facilitate the stop-move analysis, including the parallel processing of large datasets of trajectories collected outdoor and indoor.

Background Children’s health has been linked with morbidities such as cardiovascular events, type 2 diabetes and obesity in adulthood. Further efforts are needed to understand the current and emerging challenges due to the potential changes in the social context among school-aged children and adolescents at schools.Objective The study aims to investigate the health needs of school-aged children and adolescents in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).Design 9 semistructured focus groups and 1 in-depth interview among 10 entities and 5 schools were used to investigate current health needs for schools. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data were analysed using a content analysis approach.Setting The focus groups and the in-depth interviews were conducted face to face in Dubai, UAE, from February to May 2023.Participants 52 participants representing different specialties and roles in school health, such as senior employees, managers, teachers, healthcare professionals, principals, social workers/counsellors and parents, participated in this study. Most participants were females, 41 (78.8%) compared with 11 males (21.2%).Results The study identified six health themes that address the health needs in schools. The themes highlighted the importance of creating new school health services, programmes, health education sessions, policies, data quality measures and innovative technologies. The participants deemed developing and improving health services, programmes, health education sessions, policies in nutrition, social and mental health, physical activity, and health promotion necessary in schools. Training school staff to manage and handle data was also essential to improve data quality. Using innovative technologies such as applications and electronic student files linked to electronic medical systems may further support school health professionals in schools.Conclusion The health needs assessment identified the gaps and challenges that must be addressed to improve students’ health. Policy-makers could use the key results from the six themes to develop effective school health strategies.

Background: Caregiver expectations have been shown to impact child outcomes. There is limited research regarding caregivers of non-verbal autistic children in rural South Africa. Autistic individuals form part of a larger environment, which they influence and which impacts them. Caregivers form part of this environment. Objectives: This study aims to explore caregivers’ expectations of communication, education, social implications and intervention for their non-verbal autistic child in rural KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Method: Bronfenbrenner’s ecological and bioecological systems theory framed the study and allowed the child’s interaction with their environment to be understood through the use of a qualitative study design via interviews. Eleven caregivers (pilot study: n = 1 and main study: n = 10) of non-verbal autistic children were selected and interviewed. Data were analysed thematically. Results: Caregivers had varied expectations. Grandparents were often the primary caregivers (microsystem). Relationships within the mesosystem (caregiver and therapist) and caregiver’s understanding affected their feelings and expectations that changed over time (chronosystem). Education was the predominant expectation. The study highlighted limited resources (schools) within the exosystem. Caregivers reported both support and judgement from their communities. Conclusion: There is a need for public awareness, caregiver counselling and autism support groups in rural KZN and more specialised education options in order to improve caregivers’ expectations. Contribution: This study contributes to the limited literature in the field of autism in South Africa, more specifically the rural context and communication disorders.

IntroductionRecent advancements in Natural Language Processing (NLP) and widely available social media data have made it possible to predict human personalities in various computational applications. In this context, pre-trained Large Language Models (LLMs) have gained recognition for their exceptional performance in NLP benchmarks. However, these models require substantial computational resources, escalating their carbon and water footprint. Consequently, a shift toward more computationally efficient smaller models is observed.MethodsThis study compares a small model ALBERT (11.8M parameters) with a larger model, RoBERTa (125M parameters) in predicting big five personality traits. It utilizes the PANDORA dataset comprising Reddit comments, processing them on a Tesla P100-PCIE-16GB GPU. The study customized both models to support multi-output regression and added two linear layers for fine-grained regression analysis.ResultsResults are evaluated on Mean Squared Error (MSE) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), considering the computational resources consumed during training. While ALBERT consumed lower levels of system memory with lower heat emission, it took higher computation time compared to RoBERTa. The study produced comparable levels of MSE, RMSE, and training loss reduction.DiscussionThis highlights the influence of training data quality on the model's performance, outweighing the significance of model size. Theoretical and practical implications are also discussed.

This paper presents a thorough exploration of vehicle dynamics modeling and simulation, focusing on lateral, longitudinal, and vertical motion. A comprehensive mathematical representation of a car-like vehicle is developed, incorporating both kinematic and dynamic models to accurately capture its behavior. Initially, a kinematic model is established to describe fundamental motion in a 2D plane, while a subsequent dynamic model considers various forces influencing the vehicle's motion in a 3D space. The vertical motion of the vehicle is primarily influenced by its suspension systems. In this paper, we initially introduced a fundamental 2 Degree of Freedom (DOF) quarter car suspension model and subsequently presented a more comprehensive half car suspension model which accounts for both the front and rear body parts of the vehicle. The developed models are implemented using MATLAB/Simulink, enabling rigorous testing and validation of their accuracy. Simulation results demonstrate the precision of the developed models, consistently aligning with expected vehicle behavior under different input conditions. Specifically, the models accurately replicate vehicle motion in straight lines and circular patterns, corresponding to longitudinal speed and steering angle inputs. Additionally, a path tracking controller is integrated to showcase the model's efficiency and validate its derived parameters. The reliability and accuracy of the thoroughly developed models underscore their suitability for algorithm development and vali-dation, essential for advancing autonomous vehicle technology and enhancing vehicle safety and performance.

يهف البحث الى التعرف على درجة الادراك الحركي والذكاء والدحرجة الامامية والخلفية والعلاقة بين الادراك الحركي والذكاء والدحرجة الامامية والخلفية للبراعم، تم استخدام المنهج الوصفي بأسلوب دراسة العلاقة و بلغت عينة البحث (20) برعم من المركز التدريبي لتربية البصرة، و كانت استنتاجات البحث يتمتع البراعم في المركز التدريبي بدرجة معنوية من الادراك الحركي و الذكاء. ويمتلك البراعم درجة مناسبة من الأداء المهاري للدحرجة الامامية والخلفية ووجود علاقة ارتباط معنوية بين الادراك الحركي والذكاء والدحرجة الامامية والخلفية.

يهدف البحث الى التعرف على التآزر الحركي و سرعة أعصاب نصفي الدماغ الأيمن والأيسر لدى بعض لاعبي محافظات العراق بالجمباز والعلاقة بين التآزر الحركي و سرعة أعصاب الدماغ الأيمن و الأيسر و الوقوف على اليدين على عارضة التوازن ، تم استخدام المنهج الوصفي بالأسلوب دراسة العلاقة ، تمثل مجتمع البحث و عينته بلاعبي الجمباز لمنتخبات المحافظات المشاركين لاختيار منتخب العراق للمتقدمين و اهم الاستنتاجات هي تمتعت عينة لاعبي الجمباز بدرجة متوسطة في سرعة أعصاب الدماغ الأيمن والأيسر، ويمتلك لاعبي الجمباز درجة جيدة من التآزر الحركي ، و للتآزر الحركي ولسرعة أعصاب الدماغ الأيمن و الايسر دور كبير في اداء الوقوف على اليدين على عارضة التوازن.

The seasonal variability in proximate composition and essential elements demonstrates that the habitat and feeding habits of fish species play a vital role in energy transfer. We aimed to ascertain seasonal variability in the biochemical composition (protein, lipids, carbohydrates, ash, and moisture) and the amounts of Na, K, Ca, Mg, Mn, and Zn in the species Nemipterus japonicus, Epinephelus erythrurus, Nematalosa nasus, and Ilisha striatula inhabiting pelagic and demersal zones. We compared the nutritional profile of these fish species and their seasonal importance. The essential elements were detected by flame atomic absorption spectrometry and found in the following order: K > Na > Ca > Mg > Mn > Zn. To determine the proximate composition, we employed a number of methods: the Lowry me- thod for protein analysis, the acid hydrolysis method for fat/lipid analysis, a formula for carbohydrates and moisture, and the incineration method for ash content. The spring inter-monsoon season showed the highest values for the essential elements in both pelagic and demersal species. However, the pelagic species had the highest biochemical composition levels during the southwest monsoon. The autumn intermonsoon had the lowest bio-profile for the fishes of both regimes. The summer season, which is not thought to be good for fish consumption, showed the highest biochemical composition levels in the pelagic fish. The nutritional profile of fish flesh can be affected by feeding habits, seasonal variation, and habitat.

Soil erosion and sediment transport by runoff are among the largest environmental problems threatening agricultural lands in the world. Their often irreversible degradation is a major source of socio-economic imbalance in vulnerable areas. The management and control of soil loss in these areas are essentially based on erosion rate modeling generally using two methods: Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation and Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation. The Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation method results often present outliers' values compared to the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation method. This paper aims to predict and control the MUSLE method values in watersheds based on a database of Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation method values in more than 70 watersheds around the world. For this purpose, Geo-statistical analysis (Simple Linear Regression method) was used to allow the development of a model with a coefficient of determination R2= 0.96 (validity of 96%) and thus the estimation of the tolerable uncertainties of the Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation method by the equation: Y (V Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation LE) = 0.76 X (V_RUSLE) + 1.7.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, marked by cognitive decline and memory loss. Recently, machine learning and deep learning techniques have introduced promising solutions for improving AD detection through MRI, especially in settings where specialists may not be readily available. These techniques offer the potential to assist general practitioners and non-specialists in busy clinical environments. However, the ‘black box’ nature of many AI techniques makes it challenging for non-expert physicians to fully trust their diagnostic accuracy. In this review, we critically evaluate current explainable AI (XAI) methods applied to AD detection and highlight their limitations. In addition, a new interpretability framework, called “Feature-Augmented”, was theoretically designed to improve model interpretability. This approach remains underexplored, primarily due to the scarcity of explainable AD-specific datasets. Furthermore, we underscore the importance of AI models being accurate and explainable, which enhance diagnostic confidence and patient care outcomes.

Objective: To establish the frequency of emerging pathogens and their susceptibility profiles amongst various healthcare-associated infections. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Combined Military Hospital, Lahore Pakistan, from Jan to Dec 2020. Methodology: One hundred and ninety-six samples with a history of hospital-acquired infections were received and processed following standard microbiological techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done by the Kirby-Bauer Disk Diffusion technique for the commonly used antibiotics. For colistin susceptibility, the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute recommends broth microdilution, colistin broth disk elution, or colistin agar testing MIC methods, however, colistin susceptibility was performed by the E-strip method. Results: One hundred and ninety-six clinical samples with bacterial isolates causing healthcare-associated infections were processed. Specimens were from patients with surgical site infections (59,30.1%), Catheter-associated bloodstream infection (52, 26.5%); Ventilator-associated pneumonia (48, 24.5%) and Urinary tract infection (37,18.9%). Klebsiella pneumoniae (64, 32.7%), E.coli (51, 26%) and Acinetobacter baumanii (45,23%) were the leading bacterial pathogens. A total of 72(36.7%) isolates showed multidrug resistance whereas extensively drug-resistant isolates were calculated to be 124(63.3%). Conclusion: High level of bacterial resistance amongst common health-care-associated infections is an eye-opener and impacts applying strict infection control measures along with antimicrobial stewardship. It will also help clinicians modify empiric treatment regimes in affected patients.

Background: Dengue is a mosquito borne disease with worldwide distribution which has become endemic in certain regions of Pakistan and has given rise to a few epidemics. Infection with the Dengue virus can manifest itself as a severe, non-fatal viral syndrome or a rapidly progressive and a commonly fatal hemorrhagic fever. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of Dengue fever in the urban region of Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Ziauddin Hospital System comprising of three hospitals catering to various socio- economic strata of the society. 823 samples were collected from the hematology and microbiology department of the hospital and the Dengue NS 1 antigen ELISA test was performed. Patients of all age and both genders were included. Results: 823 patients were included in this study, out of which 32.1% (264) were found to have sera positive for Dengue IgM. Division according to sex demonstrated a predominance of males at 70.8% (n=177) while affected females accounted for 29.2% (n= 77). The most susceptible age group was found to be 30-39 years of age. Conclusion: The inhabitants of Karachi face a high probability of contracting this disease due to the unsanitary living conditions and lack of basic amenities .This study has shown the prevalence of Dengue to be higher in Karachi than in other cities of Pakistan, therefore effectual methods of prevention and control are the need of the hour. Key Words: Dengue fever, prevalence, NS1 antigen, Pakistan

Warfarin, a widely prescribed anticoagulant, is highly effective for various coagulation disorders. However, its efficacy is limited by a narrow therapeutic index and frequent drug interactions, especially those involving metabolism by Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes. Piperine, found in black and long pepper, possesses blood-thinning properties and has been observed to inhibit CYP3A and CYP2C enzymes linked to warfarin metabolism. This study investigated the effect of piperine on warfarin metabolism in liver microsomes using a rapid and sensitive HPLC-Fluorescence method. The use of PFP (pentafluorophenyl) column with core shell particles provided the selectivity and resolution to resolve warfarin and its 4-, 6-, 7-, and 10-hydroxy metabolites in addition to the internal standard naproxen in less than 3 min. This is the fastest analytical assay for warfarin and its major metabolites reported to date, making it ideal for metabolic studies. The applicability of the method was demonstrated by monitoring the metabolism of S-warfarin in human and rat liver microsomes, and evaluating the inhibitory effect of piperine on metabolite formation. The results showed that piperine inhibited the formation of the major metabolite, 7-hydroxywarfarin, with half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) 14.2 μM and 3.2 μM in human and rat liver microsomes, respectively. Furthermore, coagulation studies in vitro using rat plasma showed that piperine does not affect prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). This study suggested that piperine may present a potential drug interaction with warfarin at the metabolism level, but has no direct effect on the activation of the extrinsic or intrinsic coagulation cascades. Further clinical investigation is therefore required, as piperine may increase the bioavailability of warfarin, thus increasing risk of serious adverse events in patients.

Summary: Loss of PKHD1-gene function causes autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) characterized by bilateral severely enlarged kidneys and congenital liver fibrosis requiring kidney replacement therapy most frequently during childhood. Studies using renal tissue from ARPKD patients suggest cyst promotion by suppressed hippo activity and enhanced Src/STAT3-signaling. We address renal homeostasis in female Pkhd1-knockout mice, aged 3 to 9 months, and observe features in common with late-onset ARPKD. Pkhd1-knockout animals show significant increase in kidney and liver weight with preserved organ function. Kidney cyst formation of the S3 segment is accompanied by macrophage recruitment and fibrotic remodeling. Cystic epithelia display increased proliferation, high levels of nuclear YAP/TAZ, and enhanced apoptosis. Y705-phosphorylated STAT3 is strongly enhanced in nuclei of cyst-lining epithelia. In this Pkhd1-deficiency model, stressed cystic epithelia expose the altered signaling pattern and disease-related mechanisms deemed relevant to human ARPKD, and thus may allow identification of therapeutic targets of this disease.

Introduction Appropriate quality and quantity of sleep are critical for good mental health, optimal body functioning, memory consolidation, and other cognitive processes.

In light of the rapid and extreme changes in climate and the steady depletion of natural resources, there is an urgent need to find innovative and sustainable solutions to these problems. Microorganisms such as microalgae can offer viable solutions to these challenges. Proper investment in such organisms requires the identification of the algal species that inhabit the region. Therefore, this study aimed to isolate and molecularly characterize green microalgae that inhabit freshwater at different locations in the governorates of Irbid and Ajloun in the northern region of Jordan. Water samples collected from these regions were used to isolate single colonies, some of which exhibited different morphological characteristics. Genomic DNA was extracted from the isolates and used as a template for PCR amplification of the 18S ribosomal DNA gene (18S rDNA) and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Phylogenetic trees were constructed based on 18S rDNA and ITS PCR product sequences, which were used to identify the isolates at the genus level. The obtained isolates belonged to three genera; Coelastrella, Desmodesmus, and Monoraphidium. The latter species has not been previously reported in Jordan.

Today, in diverse medical and clinical fields, including cancer treatment, nanoscience has evolved and evolved. Cancer and its forms, on the other hand, have been rumored and inclusive, and many individuals suffer from this fatal and lethal condition. Actually, even with the medicinal effect, current therapeutic approaches, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, etc., create symptoms that are inconvenient for patients. Scientists and scholars are also working to establish and, strengthen the options and methods of therapy to deal with this dangerous illness. Nanoscience and nanotechnology have been popular today, their different areas, including nanoparticles, are commonly used for a number of applications, especially for drug delivery and diagnostic products, and cases of imaging. Release mechanisms focused on nanotechnology have a profound effect on the release of cancer drugs. Biomaterials and bio-engineering developments are leading to novel approaches to nanoparticles that could offer a new way for cancer patients to improve. In the drug release method, Nano-technology has had a great effect on the selection of cancer cells, the release of a targeted drug, and the overcoming of traditional chemotherapy limitations. This article discusses the drug delivery to tumor tissue, a method that is more effective than traditional drug delivery methods, also many new nanoparticles have solved the problem of cell resistance to the drug, provided a new field in the treatment of cancer.

Abstract Background Clinical staging has been widely used to predict and optimize the treatment of medical disorders. Different models have been proposed to map the development, progression, and extension of psychiatric disorders over time, mainly for schizophrenia. The primary objective of this study was to classify patients with psychosis according to the McGorry staging model and compare factors between the different stages. Methods This was a cross-sectional study, collecting data from 158 patients hospitalized for schizophrenia/psychosis. The survey included the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI), Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS), Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), Yong Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale, and the McGorry staging model. Results Patients have been classified into three clinical stages: relapse of psychotic disorder (43%), multiple relapses (47.5%), and persistent and severe illness (9.5%). A higher mean duration of hospitalization, psychotic symptoms (PANSS total scale and subscales), chlorpromazine equivalent dose, and number of antipsychotic treatments were found among participants in Stage 4 as compared to the other groups. However, a significantly higher mean GAF scale was found among participants in stage 3b as compared to the other groups. Conclusion Each stage in the McGorry staging model of schizophrenia is associated with well-defined clinical presentations, which help decide the appropriate treatment. Using such models in psychiatry can improve the diagnostic process and potential therapeutic interventions for patients suffering from mental disorders.

BackgroundCOVID-19 is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to explore the early predictors of intensive care unit (ICU) admission among patients with COVID-19.MethodsThis was a case–control study of adult patients with confirmed COVID-19. Cases were defined as patients admitted to ICU during the period February 29–May 29, 2020. For each case enrolled, one control was matched by age and gender.ResultsA total of 1,560 patients with confirmed COVID-19 were included. Each group included 780 patients with a predominant male gender (89.7%) and a median age of 49 years (interquartile range = 18). Predictors independently associated with ICU admission were cardiovascular disease (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.64, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.16–2.32, p = 0.005), diabetes (aOR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.08–2.13, p = 0.016), obesity (aOR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.03–2.08, p = 0.034), lymphopenia (aOR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.80–4.02, p

Objective: This study was aimed at evaluation of effects of Moderate Intensity Continuous Training(MICT) on the histomorphometric parameters of superior vena cava (SVC) and inferior vena cava(IVC) in Sprague Dawley rats. Methods: Twenty-four male healthy Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups.Group A (n=12) was assigned to the Moderate Intensity Continuous Training whereas Group B (n=12)was the control group with no exercise. The exercise intervention was workout on treadmill at 70%Maximal exercise intensity for 22-24 mins for 5 consecutive days/week for four weeks. The animalswere sacrificed after completion of exercise protocol for histomorphometry of the Inferior Vena Cavaand Superior Vena Cava. H&E stained slides were examined under Nikon Ts2R-FL inverted micro-scope and images were taken. Images were analyzed and morphometry was performed by using Im-age J software. Luminal area, wall thickness and wall to lumen ratio were evaluated. Statisticalanalysis was performed on SPSS version 23. Results: Histomorphometric evaluation of the luminal area, wall thickness and wall to lumen ratio ofboth large veins showed statistically significant difference between control and the exercise groups.The luminal area, wall thickness and wall to lumen ratio of the IVC was significantly increased in theexercise group with p values 0.003, 0.04 and

Abstract Background There is currently very little research evidence on the benefits and safety of liraglutide in the management of weight regain or inadequate weight loss following metabolic and bariatric surgery. This study aimed to determine the clinical effectiveness and tolerability of liraglutide as an adjunct therapy for managing weight regain and inadequate weight loss following sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Methods This was a retrospective analysis of medical records conducted at a private clinic in Kuwait. Results Data of 57 post‐SG patients were included in the analysis. The mean (±SD) pre‐treatment weight was 96.12 (29.26) kg. Following a median liraglutide treatment duration of approximately 3 months, the mean post‐treatment weight was 90.19 (26.82) kg. This represents a statistically significant mean weight loss of 5.94 (6.31) kg (p

هدفَ البحثُ الحاليّ إلى تعرُّفِ مُستوى المعرفةِ بصعوباتِ التَّعلُّم لدى عيَّنة من طلابِ السَّنة الرَّابعة مُعلَّم صف في جامعةِ تشرين، وكذلك تعرُّف نقاط الضعف في معارفهم بصعوبات التَّعلُّم، اتَّبعتِ الباحثةُ المنهجَ الوصفيّ، وتكَّونت عيّنةُ البحثِ من (50) طالباً تمَّ اختيارهم بالطريقةِ العشوائيَّة البسيطة، استخدمتِ الباحثةُ اختبار المعرفة بصعوباتِ التَّعلُّمِ من إعدادِ سلمان (2020)، وأظهرت نتائج البحث وجود مستوى مُتَّوسط من المعرفة بصعوبات التَّعلُّم لدى أفراد عيَّنة البحث، كما تبيَّن أنَّ أبرز نقاط الضعف في معارف الطلبة الخريجين كانت حول (أسباب صعوبات التَّعلُّم، تشخيص صعوبات التَّعلُّم، أعراض صعوبات التَّعلُّم الأكاديميَّة).

Abstract Infections caused by multi-drug resistant Enterobacterales (MDR-E) are difficult to treat and cause significant mortality, especially in developing countries. This study characterized the phenotypic and genotypic profiles of 49 randomly selected beta-lactam resistant MDR-E previously isolated from patients being managed in hospitals in Nigeria using whole genome sequencing. The study isolates exhibited 85.5% resistance to 3rd generation cephalosporins and 65.3% resistance to carbapenems. The bla TEM-1B (29, 59.2%), bla CTX-M-15 (38, 77.6%), and bla NDM-1 (17, 51.5%) were the most common penicillinase, ESBL, and carbapenem resistant genes across isolates, respectively. Seventeen (45%) of bla CTX-M-15 was carried on the insertion sequence ISEc9 while bla NDM-1 (11, 64.7%) were associated with ISEc33. None of the 21 plasmids detected were associated with β-lactamase genes. Higher resistance rates were found in E. coli ST-88 (n = 2) and the high-risk ST-692 (n = 2). For Klebsiella species, the high-risk clones ST-476 (n = 8) and ST-147 (n = 3) predominated and had higher phenotypic resistance rates and higher number of AMR genes. The mechanisms and pattern of antibiotic resistance differ from patterns previously described with isolates harbouring a wide range of AMRGs. The detection of several chromosomally mediated carbapenemases in our study also represents a significant finding that warrants further investigation to better understand its’ implications for clinical practice and public health. The selected MDR-Es were found to be pan-susceptible to tigecycline and had very low resistance to fosfomycin, suggesting a potential for these as empiric treatments. A surveillance approach incorporating both conventional laboratory techniques and modern molecular techniques is essential for the comprehensive characterization of the emergence and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance in Enterobacterales infections within Nigeria.

Despite the well-established benefits of antenatal education (ANE) and breastfeeding for mothers, there is a paucity of evidence about the uptake of ANE and breastfeeding amongst women from refugee backgrounds or its associations with sociodemographic factors. The current study is a cross-sectional survey at two time points examining the prevalence of ANE attendance, breastfeeding, and intimate partner violence (IPV) amongst 583 women refugees resettled in Australia and a control group of 528 Australian-born women. Multi-logistic regression was used to explore bivariate associations between ANE attendance, breastfeeding, IPV, and sociodemographic characteristics (parity, maternal employment, and education). Refugee-background women compared to Australian-born women have lower ANE utilization (20.4% vs. 24.1%), higher rates of breastfeeding on hospital discharge (89.3% vs. 81.7%), and more IPV reports (43.4% vs. 25.9%). Factors such as nulliparity, higher level of education, and employment predict higher rates of ANE and breastfeeding adoption. In contrast, IPV is a risk factor for ANE underutilization. Further, of the women from refugee backgrounds who accessed ANE services, 70% attended clinics designed for women from non-English-speaking backgrounds. These findings support the need to ensure effective screening and interventions for IPV during antenatal care and to better understand the role of culture as a protective or risk factor for breastfeeding initiation.

Introduction: The main goal of this cross-sectional retrospective study was to analyze the incidence and outcomes of acute limb ischemia (ALI) in patients suffering from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in comparison to non-COVID-19 patients. Method: We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study across two centers under the Dubai Health Authority in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Our study included 43 patients who were hospitalized for ALI between 2017 and 2021. They were divided into two groups according to our exclusion and inclusion criteria. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, version 26.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Proportions were compared by χ2 or Fisher’s exact tests. Results: A group of consecutive patients were hospitalized with ALI between 2017 and 2021. This study showed the amputation rate in COVID-19-infected patients (2/11 [18.2%]) was found to be higher than that in patients with non-COVID-19 infections (1/32 [3.1%]). Moreover, the percentage of failed limb salvage procedures also proved to be higher (4/11 [36.36%]) in the COVID-19-positive group versus (3/32 [9.37%]) in the non-COVID-19 group. Conclusions: ALI is a life-threatening condition that is caused by multiple predisposing factors in the general population and by a clot-forming process in the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 group as a result of hypercoagulable mechanisms. The management of ALI is not standardized and should be determined on a case-by-case basis. Due to the multiple complications of COVID-19, the mortality rate in patients with COVID-19 associated with ALI is significantly higher than in patients with isolated ALI. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the underlying mechanisms and clinical presentations of this condition to develop effective management strategies and minimize mortality.

RESUMEN Introducción y objetivos: La importancia de la inflamación en la patogénesis de la enfermedad coronaria, así como tras la angioplastia percutánea, es un fenómeno reconocido. Sin embargo, el efecto de la colchicina para atenuar la inflamación tras la intervención coronaria percutánea se desconoce. Este metanálisis investigó la eficacia de la colchicina en pacientes que se sometieron a intervención coronaria percutánea con el objetivo de prevención secundaria Métodos: Se revisaron las bases de datos Web of Science, PubMed, OVID MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials y ClinicalTrials.gov, y se analizaron los datos de los estudios que investigaban la eficacia de la colchicina en pacientes que se sometieron a angioplastia coronaria percutánea, usando un modelo de efectos aleatorios. Resultados: En 13 estudios, que incluyeron un total de 7.414 pacientes, no se observó ninguna diferencia entre los tratados con colchicina y los no tratados con colchicina en cuanto a mortalidad por cualquier causa (OR = 1,1; IC95%, 0,72-1,56; I2 = 0%), mortalidad por causa cardiovascular (OR = 0,98; IC95%, 0,42-2,28; I2 = 14,2%), infarto de miocardio (OR = 0,84; IC95%, 0,65-1,08; I2 = 1,4%) y revascularización coronaria (OR = 0,64; IC95%, 0,28-1,42; I2 = 49,3%). Sin embargo, los pacientes tratados con colchicina mostraron un menor riesgo de accidente vascular cerebral (OR = 0,33; IC95%, 0,15-0,72; I2 = 0%). Conclusiones: Agregar colchicina a la terapia medica estándar en pacientes sometidos a angioplastia coronaria percutánea no modificó la mortalidad por cualquier causa, la mortalidad por causa cardiovascular ni la revascularización coronaria, pero si mostró una tendencia a un menor riesgo de infarto de miocardio y un menor riesgo significativo de accidente vascular cerebral.

ABSTRACT Introduction and objectives: The role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease, and that resulting from percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is increasingly recognized, yet the effect of colchicine in attenuating peri-PCI inflammation remains unknown. This meta-analysis investigated the efficacy of colchicine in patients undergoing PCI for secondary prevention of coronary artery disease. Methods: The Web of Science, PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched. Data on studies assessing the efficacy profile of colchicine in patients undergoing PCI were pooled using a random-effects model. Results: In 13 studies of 7414 patients, no differences were observed between patients treated with colchicine compared to those without for all-cause mortality (OR, 1.1; 95%CI, 0.72-1.56; I2 = 0%), cardiovascular mortality (OR, 0.98; 95%CI, 0.42-2.28; I2 = 14.2%), myocardial infarction (OR, 0.84; 95%CI, 0.65-1.08; I2 = 1.4%) or coronary revascularization (OR, 0.64; 95%CI, 0.28-1.42; I2 = 49.3%). However, patients treated with colchicine had a lower risk of stroke (OR, 0.33; 95%CI, 0.15-0.72; I2 = 0%). Conclusions: Adding colchicine to standard medical therapy in patients undergoing PCI did not decrease all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality or urgent revascularization. However, it showed a trend towards a lower risk of myocardial infarction and a significantly lower risk of stroke.

The emergence of the Omicron variant in November 2021, has caused panic worldwide due to the rapid evolution and the ability of the virus to escape the immune system. Since, several Omicron sublineages (BA.1 to BA.5) and their descendent recombinant lineages have been circulating worldwide. Furthermore, in December 2022, a new Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 characterized by an unusual mutation in the spike protein evolved in the United States and rapidly spread to the other continents. Our study reports on the first cases of XBB.1.5 sublineage among indigenous Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV-2) positive cases detected through the influenza sentinel surveillance system in Niger. All influenza suspected cases were tested for both influenza and SARS-COV-2 using the Centre for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) Influenza SARS-COV-2 Multiplex quantitative Reverse-Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) Assay. SARS-COV-2 positive samples with cycle threshold ≤28 were selected for whole genome sequencing subsequently using the Oxford Nanopore Midnight protocol with rapid barcoding on a MinIon MK1B device. A total of 51 SARS-COV-2 positive samples were confirmed between December 2022 and March 2023. We successfully obtained 19 sequences with a predominance of the XBB.1/XBB.1.5 sublineages (73.7 %). In addition, a recombinant XBD sequence was also first-ever identified in early March 2023. Our findings support the need to strengthen the influenza sentinel surveillance for routine Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) surveillance and SARS-COV-2 variants monitoring in Niger.

Objective: To identify workplace stress in healthcare workers. Method: The cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted at Al-Kut and Al-Karamah hospitals in Kut, Iraq, from October 2019 to March 2020, and comprised health professionals regardless of age and gender. Data was collected through a pilot-tested questionnaire which was validated by a panel of experts. Data was analysed using SPSS 25. Results: Of the 266 subjects, 133(50%) were from each of the two hospitals. Overall, there were 156(58.6%) females and 110(41.4%) males. There were 195(73.3%) subjects aged 40 years (p=0.625). There were 19(7.1%) physicians 72(27.1%) nurses, 88(33.1%) technicians and 87(32.7%) other healthcare workers. Stress was found in 20(7.5%) subjects; 13(65%) in Al-Karamah Hospital and 7(35%) in Al-Kut Hospital (p=0.245). Conclusion: The prevalence of stress was low among the health workers studied. Keywords: Stress, Ergonomics, Healthcare, Workers, Workplace.

Rainfall-Runoff modeling is among the classical applications of hydrology. This paper examines the results of 3 hydrologic approaches, particularly Clark Model, Nash Model, and Geomorphic Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph Model. Assumptions are forwarded for the long run use of the Rawalpindi Division, Pakistan’s Small Dam Organization. The catchment of Shahpur Dam was an area under consideration for the study. The Digital elevation model (DEM) was implicated to measure the Nash and Clark model’s geomorphic parameters. Using ArcGIS, catchment satellite imagery was processed to estimate geomorphological parameters. The models have been applied to multiple storm cases. Geographic Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph (GIUH) model gave direct surface runoff hydrograph, whereas, on measured precipitation excess rainfall hyetograph was obtained. Four types of statistical parameters, namely efficiency of the model (EFF), percentage defect in time to attain peak (PETP), percent defect in attained peak Q (PEP), percentage defect in runoff rate (PEV) are used to check model’s efficiency. The comparison is done between the findings of Clark and Nash GIUH models and the original Clark and Nash models. It was observed that GIUH models are equally good even when optimization is done for Clark and Nash model’s parameters. Since the results obtained from these models are more credible, so, these models can be used in ungauged catchments to estimate the hydrographs.

U povijesti glazbe u Bosni i Hercegovini austrougarski period (1878-1918) smatra se razdobljem uspostavljanja centralnoeuropskog modela glazbenog života, a period između dvaju svjetskih ratova (1918-1941) razdobljem u kojem su osnovane prve glazbene institucije. Budući da je BiH do ulaska u sastav Austro-Ugarske Monarhije bio pod višestoljetnom osmanskom vlašću, institucionalizacija glazbene kulture započela je mnogo kasnije nego što je slučaj sa susjednim zemljama. Vrlo brza tranzicija iz orijentalno-islamskog u europski kulturni krug, složen odnos etnonacionalnih zajednica prema novoj upravi te uloga doseljenika ovaj proces čine specifičnim i posebno složenim. Cilj je rada identificirati ključne faktore institucionalizacije u okviru tzv. institucionalne teorije, odnosno opisati modele privatnih i javnih inicijativa u području glazbene kulture koje su »pripremile teren« osnivanju modernih građanskih glazbenih institucija u BiH.

The applications and services envisioned for the sixth Generation (6G) Internet of Things (IoT) communication systems will place different requirements on the system design. The current 5G waveform, Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), suffers from a list of drawbacks that questions its suitability and ability to fulfill these prerequisites. Filtered multi-carrier waveforms provide viable alternatives for future mobile networks. Based on the best recent advances including contributions by the authors, this work provides a comprehensive assessment of the current status and future challenges related to the design of a next-generation Filter Bank Multi-Carrier/Offset Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (FBMC/OQAM) transceiver. We start by showing how the next-generation FBMC/OQAM waveform can overcome the drawbacks of OFDM. Furthermore, we highlight the advantages and possibilities of extending the next-generation FBMC/OQAM waveform for massive Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output (mMIMO) in well-identified 6G-IoT scenarios. Results show that the next-generation FBMC/OQAM receivers associated with short prototype filters can unleash appealing properties for 6G-IoT applications. Considered a cornerstone for grant-free spectrum and massive access, asynchronous communications are shown to be achievable. Furthermore, a largely improved robustness is observed compared to OFDM under different channel impairments such as carrier frequency offsets, timing offsets, and multipath channels. Compared to the original FBMC/OQAM associated with long filters, this next-generation transceiver achieves a reduction in complexity down to a comparable level to OFDM. Finally, open research opportunities and challenges for the next-generation FBMC/OQAM waveform are discussed.

Abstract Carbamazepine (CBZ) is a frequently-detected aqueous pharmaceutical due to its extensive use and persistence in the environment. CBZ could not be efficiently removed by biological processes which led to its disposal in natural water bodies. This study coupled the Fenton process as pretreatment with the activated sludge process for aqueous CBZ removal. Fenton degradation studies showed that the application of excessive reagents might cause a decrease in CBZ removal. Apparent CBZ degradation at neutral pH supported the use of the Fenton process as pretreatment for CBZ removal. Treated with the hybrid combination system, CBZ, COD, and TOC removal were enhanced. The EEM analysis evidenced the biodegradable intermediates formed during the hybrid process. CBZ degradation pathways were explored using LC-MS analytical results and literature studies. Given the low biodegradability of CBZ, using the Fenton process as a pretreatment before sequencing batch reactor-activated sludge (SBR-AS) is an alternative to improve the aqueous CBZ treatment.

BackgroundIntraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) are the first immune cells to contact and fight intestinal pathogens such as Cryptosporidium, a widespread parasite which infects the gut epithelium. IFN-γ producing CD4+ T IELs provide an efficient and a long-term protection against cryptosporidiosis while intraepithelial type 1 innate lymphoid cells limits pathogen spreading during early stages of infection in immunodeficient individuals. Yet, the role of T-cell like innate IELs, the most frequent subset of innate lymphocytes in the gut, remains unknown.MethodsTo better define functions of innate IELs in cryptosporidiosis, we developed a co-culture model with innate IELs isolated from Rag2-/- mice and 3D intestinal organoids infected with C. parvum using microinjection.ResultsThanks to this original model, we demonstrated that innate IELs control parasite proliferation. We further showed that although innate IELs secrete IFN-γ in response to C. parvum, the cytokine was not sufficient to inhibit parasite proliferation at early stages of the infection. The rapid protective effect of innate IELs was in fact mediated by a cytotoxic, granzyme-dependent mechanism. Moreover, transcriptomic analysis of the Cryptosporidium-infected organoids revealed that epithelial cells down regulated Serpinb9b, a granzyme inhibitor, which may increase their sensitivity to cytolytic attack by innate IELs.ConclusionBased on these data we conclude that innate IELs, most likely T-cell-like innate IELs, provide a rapid protection against C. parvum infection through a perforin/granzymes-dependent mechanism. C. parvum infection. The infection may also increase the sensitivity of intestinal epithelial cells to the innate IEL-mediated cytotoxic attack by decreasing the expression of Serpin genes.

Summary: Plastic pollution and climate change are two major environmental focuses. Having the forming potential due to ambient plastic pollution, the environmental fate of microplastics shall be inevitably impacted by global warming. This manuscript discusses the destiny of environmental microplastics and characterizes their fate considering the framework of the planetary boundary. The major routes for microplastic discharge include the release of microplastic stored in the ice into the sea when the ice melts as a result of global temperature increase, flushing of the plastic/microplastic debris from the shorelines into the adjacent water bodies as a result of increased rainfall, redistribution of the microplastics away from the source of plastic debris as a result of increased wind, and accumulation of microplastics in the soil as a result of drought. A perspective on the impact of climate change and microplastic pollution on aquatic and soil organisms was discussed as well.

In this study abundance and composition of zooplanktons in the Indus River Estuary was conducted to examine habitat characteristics and its impact on tiny organisms. Overall 30,656 individuals were identified and segregated into seven major groups including Copepods, Cnidarians, Decapods, Mollusk, Pisces, Amphipods and Chaetognaths. For better understanding they were further divided into eighteen planktonic categories. Among them Lucifer spp. comprises of 52.21% was the most abundant group with a peak appeared in March whereas Chaetognaths were rarely observed in the entire study period. Species diversity exhibited a mixed trend with the highest values (0.776) of dominance observed in spring (March). The results of Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) indicate (60.2% and 39.79%) variability among first II axis. On this basis of the result it is obvious that water turbidity is trigger of the abundance and distribution whereas total dissolved solids (TDS) showed minimal influence deduced from CCA analysis.

The production of Land Use and Land Cover thematic maps using remote sensing data is one of the things that must be dealt with carefully to obtain accurate results, data is obtained from sensors of different characteristics. It is not possible to obtain high spatial and spectral accuracy in one image, so we used a fusion image (multispectral image with a low spatial resolution with a panchromatic image with high spatial resolution), which achieved high efficiency in improving the methods of producing Land Use and Land Cover maps. In this study, we used Landsat-8 multispectral and panchromatic images. The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of panchromatic images in improving the methods of producing Land Use and Land Cover maps for the city of Karbala, Iraq. The Support Vector Machine was used to classify the fusion images using the Brovey method and Gram-Schmidt sharpening algorithms. The appropriate methodology for producing Land Use and Land Cover maps was suggested by comparing classifying results and the classification accuracy was evaluated through the confusion matrix. Where the results showed that the method of classifying the fused image by Gram-Schmidt and classified by Support Vector Machine is the best way to produce Land use and Land cover maps for the study area and achieved the highest results for overall accuracy and kappa coefficient of 97.81% and 0.95, respectively.

Phthalates (PAEs) are a group of synthetic esters of phthalic acid compounds mostly used as plasticizers in plastic materials but are widely applied in most industries and products. As plasticizers in plastic materials, they are not chemically bound to the polymeric matrix and easily leach out. Logically, PAEs should be prevalent in the environment, but their prevalence, transport, fate, and effects have been largely unknown until recently. This has been attributed, inter alia, to a lack of standardized analytical procedures for identifying them in complex matrices. Nevertheless, current advancements in analytical techniques facilitate the understanding of PAEs in the environment. It is now known that they can potentially impact ecological and human health adversely, leading to their categorization as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, carcinogenic, and liver- and kidney-failure-causing agents, which has landed them among contaminants of emerging concern (CECs). Thus, this review article reports and discusses the developments and advancements in PAEs’ standard analytical methods, facilitating their emergence from obscurity. It further explores the opportunities, challenges, and limits of their advancements.

This study carefully assesses the capability of supervised machine learning classification algorithms in identifying land cover (LC) in the context of the Jhelum River basin in Kashmir. Sentinel 2 and Landsat 8 high-resolution data from two satellite sources were used. Through preprocessing techniques, we removed any potential noise inherent to satellite imagery and assured data consistency. The study then utilized and compared the skills of the supervised algorithms random forest (RF) and support vector machine (SVM). A hybrid approach, amalgamating classifications from both methods, was also tested for potential synergistic enhancements in accuracy. Using a stratified random sampling approach for validation, the SVM algorithm emerged with a commendable accuracy rate of 82.5%. Using simulations from 2000 to 2015, the soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) model was used to further explore the hydrological effects of LC alterations. Between 2009 and 2019, there were discernible changes in the land cover, with a greater emphasis on ranges, forests, and agricultural plains. When these changes were combined with the results of the hydrologic simulation, a resultant fall in average annual runoff—from above 700 mm to below 600 mm—was seen. With runoff values possibly ranging between 547 mm and 747 mm, the statistics emphasize the direct effects of urban communities encroaching upon forest, agricultural, and barren lands. This study concludes by highlighting the crucial role that technical pipelines play in enhancing LC classifications and by providing suggestions for future water resource estimation and hydrological impact evaluations.

Abstract Background In pediatric hereditary cystic kidney diseases, epithelial cell defects mostly result from rare, autosomal recessively inherited pathogenic variants in genes encoding proteins of the cilia-centrosome complex. Consequences of individual gene variants on epithelial function are often difficult to predict and can furthermore depend on the patient’s genetic background. Here, we studied urine-derived renal tubular epithelial cells (URECs) from genetically determined, pediatric cohorts of different hereditary cystic kidney diseases, comprising autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, nephronophthisis (NPH) and the Bardet Biedl syndrome (BBS). UREC characteristics and behavior in epithelial function-related 3D cell culture were compared in order to identify gene and variant-specific properties and to determine aspects of epithelial (cell) dysfunction. Results UREC preparations from patients (19) and healthy controls (39) were studied in a qualitative and quantitative manner using primary cells cultured for up-to 21 days. In patients with biallelic pathogenic variants in PKHD1 or NPHP genes, we were able to receive satisfactory amounts of URECs of reproducible quality. In BBS patients, UREC yield was lower and more dependent on the individual genotype. In contrast, in UREC preparations derived from healthy controls, no predictable and satisfactory outcome could be established. Considering cell proliferation, tubular origin and epithelial properties in 2D/3D culture conditions, we observed distinct and reproducible epithelial properties of URECs. In particular, the cells from patients carrying PKHD1 variants were characterized by a high incidence of defective morphogenesis of monolayered spheroids—a property proposed to be suitable for corrective intervention. Furthermore, we explored different ways to generate reference cell lines for both—patients and healthy controls—in order to eliminate restrictions in cell number and availability of primary URECs. Conclusions Ex vivo 3D cell culture of primary URECs represents a valuable, non-invasive source to evaluate epithelial cell function in kidney diseases and as such helps to elucidate the functional consequences of rare genetic disorders. In combination with genetically defined control cell lines to be generated in the future, the cultivation of primary URECs could become a relevant tool for testing personalized treatment of epithelial dysfunction in patients with hereditary cystic kidney disease.

Abstract Background The Syrian conflict has had a massive impact on the dental health of refugees. Dental extraction is a good indicator of socioeconomic position and degree of oral hygiene, however there is a scarcity of evidence in the scientific literature that characterizes the reasons for extraction in refugees. Aims and methods The current study looked at the extraction causes and related sociodemographic variables of 322 Syrian refugees (46.3% females, 53.7% males) who were treated in a dental clinic in Zaatari camp (Jordan), from September to December 2019. All child Syrian refugees (aged 4–16) visiting the facility were eligible to participate. A validated semi-structured survey was used to collect clinical and sociodemographic data from the research sample. Chi-square test, Independent sample t-test, and ANOVA test were used to examine associations between the different variables. The significance level was set at P