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Abstract The threat of antibiotic resistance is escalating, diminishing the effectiveness of numerous antibiotics due to the rapid development of resistant bacteria. In response, the use of green-synthesized nanoparticle, alone or combined with antimicrobial agents, appears promising. This study explores the effectiveness of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) synthesized using Loranthus cordifolius leaf extracts and subsequently coated with anethole. The fabrication of these nanoparticles was confirmed via UV-Vis, FTIR and TEM analyses, ensuring the nanoparticles were produced as intended. Utilizing a nanoprecipitation process that excludes evaporation and drying, a high drug loading capacity of 16.59% was accomplished. The encapsulation efficiency for anethole was recorded at 88.23 ± 4.98%. Antibacterial efficacy was assessed by com paring the green-synthesized ZnONPs (average size: 14.47 nm), anethole-loaded ZnONPs (average size: 14,75 nm), and commercially sourced ZnONPs. The ZnONPs with anethole demonstrated superior inhibition against all tested bacterial strains, including Gram-negative species like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, and Gram-positive species like Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus, outperforming the commercially available ZnONPs. Additionally, anethole-coated ZnONPs showed the greatest inhibition of Gyr-B activity (IC50 = 0.78 ± 0.2 M), better than both green-synthesized and commercially available ZnONPs. These findings emphasize the enhanced antimicrobial properties of ZnONPs, particularly when combined with green synthesis and anethole loading, highlighting their potential in various biomedical applications.

Background. The impact of induction type or high-risk viral discordance on older kidney transplant recipients is unclear. Herein, we analyzed the association between induction type, viral discordance, and outcomes for older recipients. Methods. We analyzed the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients standard analysis file for all primary kidney transplant recipients older than 55 y who were transplanted between 2005 and 2022. All transplants were crossmatch negative and ABO-compatible. Recipients were discharged on tacrolimus and mycophenolate ± steroids. Recipients were categorized into 3 groups by induction received: rabbit antithymocyte globulin (r-ATG; N = 51 079), interleukin-2 receptor antagonist (IL-2RA; N = 22 752), and alemtuzumab (N = 13 465). Kaplan-Meier curves were generated for recipient and graft survival, and follow-up was censored at 10 y. Mixed-effect Cox proportional hazard models examined the association between induction type, high-risk viral discordance, and outcomes of interest. Models were adjusted for pertinent recipient and donor characteristics. Results. Induction type did not predict recipient survival in the multivariable model, whereas Epstein-Barr virus high-risk discordance predicted 14% higher mortality (1.14 [1.07-1.21], P

Abstract The health of calves has a significant impact on the production of cows and livestock. Some desert plants have pharmacological importance, as they can be used to reduce antibiotic resistance. Our hypothesis is designed to detect Virulent- Multidrug-Resistant and Extended- spectrum Beta- lactamase Enterobacteriaceae (Virulent-MDR-ESBL Enterobacteriaceae and to determine whether Moringa oleifera has antibacterial activity against the detected isolates. A total of 39 Enterobacteriaceae isolates from 28 diarrheic samples were collected from calves aged between 20 days and 20 months from 3 different flocks in North Sinai, Sahl-Eltina region, Egypt. E.coli 46% (18/39), O157 13% (5/39), Klebsiella pneumoniae 41% (16/39). MDR members accounted for 87%, while ESBL isolates accounted for 43%. The antibacterial activity is represented by microdilution. Minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) for the methanol extract of Moringa oleifera ranged from 2.5,5,10, and 25mg/ ml among E.coli isolates, and O157 was susceptible to (2.5mg/ ml), Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were susceptible to (5-50mg/ ml). Analysis of the methanol extract revealed that ferulic acid was the dominant phenolic compound with a concentration of 29,832 parts per million (ppm). In silico docking study expected the active site of ferulic acid to act on the tyrosine bacterial enzyme through Pi-alkyl, Pi-anion, Carbon hydrogen bonds, and extra ionic attractive interactions with copper ions which can stabilize ferulic acid inside the targeted pocket Diverse virulent gene profiles were observed in E. coli. The Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) was reported in 83% of the isolated E. coli, while the DNA gyrase (gyrA) was harbored in 100% of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates. Various profiles of antibiotic resistance genes for both E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were distinguished. blaTEM genes were detected in 99% of E. coli and 100% of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Sequence analysis for E. coli strain DRC-North Sinai-Eg was placed in accession numbers (OP955786) for the Shiga toxin 2 gene (Stx2A), (OP997748) and (OP997749) for the Adhesion to host cell gene (Eae). For the hemolysine gene (hylA), the accession number was (OP946183). Klebsiella pneumoniae strain DRC-North Sinai-Eg was placed in (OP946180) for (gyrA). This study has proven the broad range of Moringa oliefera's antibacterial effects in vitro against the virulent-MDR- ESBL E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from North Sinai calves diarrhea. These are congruent with the disability effect on bacterial tyrosinase enzyme through docking study therefore, we recommend the usage of this desert plant as a prospective feed additive, we endorse this as an antibacterial new insight natural source and for the medication of considered pathogens with zoonotic impacts. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Acetamiprid (ACDP) is a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide that is popular for its efficacy in controlling fleas in domestic settings and for pets. Our study aims to offer a comprehensive examination of the toxicological impacts of ACDP and the prophylactic effects of cinnamon nanoemulsions (CMNEs) on the pathological, immunohistochemical, and hematological analyses induced by taking ACDP twice a ‎week for 28 days. Forty healthy rats were divided into four groups (n = 10) at random; the first group served as control rats; the second received CMNEs (2 mg/Kg body weight); the third group received acetamiprid (ACDP group; 21.7 mg/Kg body weight), and the fourth group was given both ACDP and CMNEs by oral gavage. Following the study period, tissue and blood samples were extracted and prepared for analysis. According to a GC-MS analysis, CMNEs had several bioactive ingredients that protected the liver from oxidative stress by upregulating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. Our findings demonstrated that whereas ACDP treatment considerably boosted white blood cells (WBCs) and lymphocytes, it significantly lowered body weight gain (BWG), red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), and platelets (PLT). ACDP notably reduced antioxidant enzyme activities: superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) and elevated hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels compared with other groups. ACDP remarkably raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. Moreover, the histopathological and immunohistochemistry assays discovered a severe toxic effect on the liver and kidney following ACDP delivery. Furthermore, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) + immunoexpression was enhanced after treatment with CMNEs. All of the parameters above were returned to nearly normal levels by the coadministration of CMNEs. The molecular docking of cinnamaldehyde with COX-2 also confirmed the protective potential of CMNEs against ACDP toxicity. Our findings highlighted that the coadministration of CMNEs along with ACDP diminished its toxicity by cutting down oxidative stress and enhancing antioxidant capacity, demonstrating the effectiveness of CMNEs in lessening ACDP toxicity.

The switching surges that arising due to integrating renewable energy resources with power grids have become the major factor in the insulation coordination of the power systems. Consequently, it is urgent to perform proper risk analysis of the switching surges that appear over the power systems integrating with large-scale renewable energy resources. The main contribution of the current research is to develop a full comprehensive study of the risk of failure for the power transformer’s insulators due to the switching overvoltages arising from integrating large – scale renewable anergy resources with the power grids. For this objective, the IEEE 40 Bus power grid and two large-scale PV and Wind systems are simulated using EMTP-RV integrated with MATLAB. Furthermore, the probability risk assessments are performed for insulators of the interconnecting power transformer under different conditions (dry/wet) using four different probability distribution schemes. The effects of switching different power capacities of the renewable energy resources are demonstrated. The main factors affecting the risk of failure of the insulators are evaluated. The effects of the numbers of the interconnected transformers working in parallel and operating conditions are elaborated. Moreover, the effects of the switching overvoltages mitigation techniques on the risk of failure are considered.

Abstract A coronavirus family is a diverse group of many viruses. Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets and very small particles that contain the virus. These droplets and particles can be breathed in by other people or land on their eyes, noses, or mouths. In this paper, the airflow distribution and the movement of coronavirus particles during normal breathing and sneezing in classrooms have been studied using a CFD model developed in ANSYS® 2022R2. The objective is to find ways to control the spread of the virus that enable us to practice academic activity and deal normally with the pandemic and the spread of the disease. Experiments were done with more than one turbulence model to know which was closest to the experiments as well as to determine the best number of meshes in the classroom. The effect of turbulent dispersion on particles is resolved using a discrete random walk model for the discrete phase and the RANS model for the continuous phase in a coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian method. Furthermore, that is done in two scenarios: the first is to find the best ventilation configuration by investigating the following parameters: the effect of air change per hour, the height of the air inlets and outlets, and the infected student's position. The second is to control the spread of the coronavirus in the classroom in the event of sneezing from an infected student by placing cabins and an air filter with optimal design installed at the top around each student. It was found that optimal ventilation is achieved when fresh air enters from the side walls of the classroom at a distance of 1 m from the floor and the air exits from the ceiling in the form of two rows, and the rate change of air per hour (ACH) is 4, which leads to energy savings. In addition, a novel transparent cabin is designed for the student to sit in while in the classroom, consisting of a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) that collects any contamination and recirculates it from the top of the cabin back into the classroom with different fan speeds. Through this study, this cabin with a filter was successfully able to prevent any sneeze particles inside from reaching the rest of the students in the classroom.

2-Indolinone nucleus is considered one of a promising heterocyclic core in medicinal chemistry that showed numerous range of activity among which antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral, antitubercular and anticancer activities. Cancer targeting is still an issue so there is a need for developing new agents that inhibit cancer growth without or low effect on normal body cells. Some derivatives of indolin-2-one are known to be a critical structure in some inhibitors of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs); a cancer target therapy, for example, Sunitinib. Herein in this review we focus on 2-indolinone derivatives as RTKs inhibitors as cancer targeting therapy.

In this paper, we define a cubic positive implicative-ideal, a cubic implicative-ideal and a cubic commutative-ideal of a semigroup in KU-algebra as a generalization of a fuzzy (positive implicative-ideal, an implicative-ideal and a commutative-ideal) of a semigroup in KU-algebra. Some relations between these types of cubic ideals are discussed. Also, some important properties of these ideals are studied. Finally, some important theories are discussed. It is proved that every cubic commutative-ideal, cubic positive implicative-ideal, and cubic implicative-ideal are a cubic ideal, but not conversely. Also, we show that if Θ is a cubic positive implicative-ideal and a cubic commutative-ideal then Θ is a cubic implicative-ideal. Some examples of the opposite direction of the previous theories are obtained.

A novel Artemisinin/Quercetin/Zinc (Art/Q/Zn) mixed ligand complex was synthesized, tested for its antiviral activity against coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), and investigated for its effect against toxicity and oxidative stress induced by acrylamide (Acy), which develops upon cooking starchy foods at high temperatures. The synthesized complex was chemically characterized by performing elemental analysis, conductance measurements, FT-IR, UV, magnetic measurements, and XRD. The morphological surface of the complex Art/Q/Zn was investigated using scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (XRD). The in vitro antiviral activity of the complex Art/Q/Zn against SARS-CoV-2 and its in vivo activity against Acy-induced toxicity in hepatic and pulmonary tissues were analyzed. An experimental model was used to evaluate the beneficial effects of the novel Art/Q/Zn novel complex on lung and liver toxicities of Acy. Forty male rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, Acy (500 mg/Kg), Art/Q/Zn (30 mg/kg), and a combination of Acy and Art/Q/Zn. The complex was orally administered for 30 days. Hepatic function and inflammation marker (CRP), tumor necrosis factor, interleukin-6 (IL-6), antioxidant enzyme (CAT, SOD, and GPx), marker of oxidative stress (MDA), and blood pressure levels were investigated. Histological and ultrastructure alterations and caspase-3 variations (immunological marker) were also investigated. FT-IR spectra revealed that Zn (II) is able to chelate through C=O and C-OH (Ring II) which are the carbonyl oxygen atoms of the quercetin ligand and carbonyl oxygen atom C=O of the Art ligand, forming Art/Q/Zn complex with the chemical formula [Zn(Q)(Art)(Cl)(H2O)2]⋅3H2O. The novel complex exhibited a potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity even at a low concentration (IC50 = 10.14 µg/ml) and was not cytotoxic to the cellular host (CC50 = 208.5 µg/ml). Art/Q/Zn may inhibit the viral replication and binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) receptor and the main protease inhibitor (MPro), thereby inhibiting the activity of SARS-CoV-2 and this proved by the molecular dynamics simulation. It alleviated Acy hepatic and pulmonary toxicity by improving all biochemical markers. Therefore, it can be concluded that the novel formula Art/Q/Zn complex is an effective antioxidant agent against the oxidative stress series, and it has high inhibitory effect against SARS-CoV-2.

Lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms behind the anti-cancer effects of the tropical desert plant Retama raetam (R. raetam) on the A549 NSCLC cell line. The research examined R. raetam's anti-proliferative effects, cytotoxicity, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cell morphology in NSCLC A549 and L-132 cells. In addition, the influence of R. raetam on DNA fragmentation, apoptotic signaling, and PI3K/Akt pathways for its anti-cancer mechanism was examined. Our results indicated that R. raetam's effects were dose- and time-dependent to exhibit anti-proliferative effects on A549 cells. R. raetam treatment promoted apoptotic cell death cycle arrest, increased apoptotic cells, depolarized the mitochondrial membrane, and induced morphological alterations in cells and nuclei. It also inhibited A549 cell migration (P < 0.05), colonization, and invasiveness. Moreover, the study demonstrated that R. raetam treatment resulted in the upregulation of Bax expression, downregulation of Bcl-2 expression, and apoptotic fragmented DNA in A549 cells. The top five bioactive compounds derived from R. raetam exhibited molecular interactions that inhibit PIK3CA and AKT1. This inhibition leads to an increased frequency of apoptosis and subsequent death of cancer cells. Additionally, R. raetam extract induced an increase in ROS formation and cytochrome c levels, indicating that its toxic effects on A549 cells involve both ROS-dependent cytotoxicity through the disruption of mitochondrial transmembrane potential ΔΨm and ROS-independent cell cycle arrest through downregulation BCL-2, PARP, E-Cadherin, PI3K, and Akt expressions pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood lactate concentration is an established circulating biomarker for measuring muscle acidity and can be evaluated for monitoring endurance, training routines, or athletic performance. Sweat is an alternative biofluid that may serve similar purposes and offers the advantage of noninvasive collection and continuous monitoring. The relationship between blood lactate and dynamic sweat biochemistry for wearable engineering applications in physiological fitness remains poorly defined. Here, we developed a microfluidic wearable band with an integrated colorimetric timer and biochemical assays that temporally captures sweat and measures pH and lactate concentration. A colorimetric silver nanoplasmonic assay was used to measure the concentration of lactate, and dye-conjugated SiO2 nanoparticle–agarose composite materials supported dynamic pH analysis. We evaluated these sweat biomarkers in relation to blood lactate in human participant studies during cycling exercise of varying intensity. Iontophoresis-generated sweat pH from regions of actively working muscles decreased with increasing heart rate during exercise and was negatively correlated with blood lactate concentration. In contrast, sweat pH from nonworking muscles did not correlate with blood lactate concentration. Changes in sweat pH and blood lactate were observed in participants who did not regularly exercise but not in individuals who regularly exercised, suggesting a relationship to physical fitness and supporting further development for noninvasive, biochemical fitness evaluations. Editor's summary: The makeup of our sweat has the potential to be used to noninvasively monitor health during exercise. Here, Cho et al. develop a wearable microfluidic band to measure local sweat biochemistry of muscles in human participants during rest or cycling exercise. The device incorporates a colorimetric "timer" that allows the collection of longitudinal sweat pH and lactate concentration measurements. Blood lactate concentration, a known circulating biomarker of muscle activity, was correlated with local sweat pH over actively working muscles. Therefore, changes in sweat pH during exercise may be an indicator of muscle fatigue. —Molly Ogle [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

THIS RESEARCH aims to study the degree and duration of the thermophilic phase by changing the available carbon source to reduce the period of composting within a fully equipped reactor with a controllable stirring and ventilation unit and its impact on the quality of the produced compost. The first stage analysis of raw materials used physically and chemically. Then determined the need for nitrogen supplements and the appropriate particle size of the nutrient. Initially, the experiment contained six treatments obtained by mixing agricultural plant residues (pepper and broccoli) with cow manure in different mixing ratios: 95:5, 90:10, 85:15, 60:40, 50:50 and 10:90 respectively. Then from the resulting data of the first experiment, the mixing ratios of 50:50 and 60:40 were chosen as the best ratios that showed the highest temperatures, then other parameters were added to them, which are (20 ml used oil and 20% compost as inoculum). The addition of used oil (50:50) resulted in the record of the highest temperature of 59°C and the thermophilic phase lasted for 5 days. However, with ratios (60:40) recorded 56°C and the thermophilic phase lasted for 4 days and the composting process was completed within 18 days. While when the inoculum was added with (50:50) ratios, the temperature reached 52.7°C and with (60:40) it reached 51°c and the compost was completed ripening after 25 days from the beginning of the experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curcumin (Cur) metal complexes of Mg(II), Ca(II), Cu(II), Cr(III), and Se(IV) were prepared and characterized using elemental analysis, molar conductance, IR, UV-spectra, 1H NMR, SEM, TEM, and X-ray diffraction. The very low values of molar conductance confirm that Cl-ions are absent inside or outside the chelation sphere confirming their non-electrolytic nature, while for Cr(III) Cur is high compared to other curcumin complexes, confirming that Cl-ions are inside the complexation sphere. Based on IR and electronic spectra, the Cur C=O group in enol form chelated to Mg(II), Ca(II), Cu(II), Cr(III), and tetravalent metal (Se). The surface morphology of the curcumin chelates showed an increase in particle size and irregular grains shaped with an elongated morphology. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the Cur chelates have spherical black spots like shape with a particle size of 72.21-88.75 nm, 34.89-57.33 nm, and 80.71-100 nm for Cu(II), Zn(II), and Se(IV) Cur respectively. X-ray powder diffraction patterns for Cu(II) Cur complexes showed particle size within 70-90 nm; the antioxidant activities of Cur and its metal complexes were assessed. Results showed that the Cur complexes with Cr, Mg, Ca, Cu, or Se showed potent antioxidant activities. Further studies could evaluate the potency of these complexes to elevate the antioxidant defense system and enhance body functions against degenerative diseases, such as aging, Alzheimer's disease, and viral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research was to create vegetable oil blends for food that had higher oxidative stability than pure sunflower and soybean oil. The following proportions of sunflower, soybean, and palm oil were evaluated when they were blended: 50:50 (v/v). A 45-day, 60 °C, accelerated storage test was performed. We calculated the free fatty acid level, fatty acid composition, induction time, and primary and secondary oxidation products. In comparison to sunflower and soybean oil, the blends showed higher oxidative stability indicators. The findings imply that combining palm oil with sunflower, soybean, and other oils is a suitable substitute for obtaining oils with greater oxidative stability indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The exponential growth of obesity rates is a pressing issue, as it is now firmly established as a primary driver behind the development of metabolic disorders. Natural products are crucial in drug discovery, prompting an increasing need for further research on bioactive compounds to understand molecular and pharmacological mechanisms and expand available clinical treatments for various diseases. We set out to investigate the therapeutic potential of Retama raetam (RR) extract, a natural compound, in alleviating testicular degeneration and improving sperm quality and quantity in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus. An eight-week high-fat diet (HFD) was administered to type 2 diabetic rats, and then a modest dose of 35 mg/kg of STZ was injected intraperitoneally. The experiment planned to assess the influence of RR extract on the steroidogenesis pathway. For twelve weeks, the rats were given medications orally. The testicular degeneration caused by HFD/STZ is shown by decreasing the accessory sexual glands while reducing the quality of sperm characters and testosterone levels with significantly increased pad fat and leptin levels. Furthermore, administration of RR extract effectively counteracted HFD/STZ-induced oxidation through enhancing the antioxidant status of the testicular tissue through significantly increased SOD and GSH accompanied by decreasing MDA. HFD/STZ rats showed decreased expression of CYP17, STAR, 3βHSD, and BCL2 genes, along with increased BAX gene expression. However, treatment with RR in HFD/STZ rats led to decreased BAX expression and increased expression of CYP17, STAR, 3βHSD, and BCL2 genes, indicating a restoration of gene expression values similar to the control group. The binding site of Bax showed a strong affinity for several bioactive compounds found in R. raetam. The findings from this study suggest that Retama raetam (RR) has the potential as a therapeutic adjunct for managing complications related to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). These findings afford credence to the idea that RR can be useful in treating infertility associated with type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionWe developed and produced a new series of 4,6-diaryl-pyrimidines 9–29 as antiproliferative agents targeting EGFR/VEGFR-2.MethodsThe antiproliferative efficacy of the novel targets was assessed against a panel of 60 NCI cancer cell lines and four cancer cell lines in vitro.Results and DiscussionCompounds 14, 17, 19, 22, 25, and 29 demonstrated the greatest potency among the derivatives, with GI50 values between 22 and 33 nM; compounds 22 and 29 exhibited the highest potency, with GI50 values of 22 and 24 nM, respectively. We subsequently examined the most efficient derivatives as dual EGFR/VEGFR-2 inhibitors, finding that compounds 22 and 29 functioned as dual inhibitors. Moreover, 22 and 29 can act as apoptotic inducers by increasing Bax levels and decreasing levels of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2. At both 24- and 48-h intervals, the cell migration rates of compounds 22 and 29 were lower than those of untreated cells, according to the migration rate and wound closure percentage assessment. The wound closure rate reached 100% after 72 h of therapy with compound 22 but only 80% with compound 29. The docking study showed that compounds 22 and 29 had docking scores similar to those of Erlotinib and Sorafenib, co-crystallized ligands, for the EGFR and VEGFR-2 proteins. The experiments on lipophilicity showed that the new pyrimidines had a consistent result. This group of compounds has better biological activity in all the biological systems studied with low lipophilicity.

Abstract Background Our aim was to develop and evaluate a method for the measurement of muscle mass during the 12‐channel electrocardiogram (ECG), to determine the incidence of sarcopenia in patients with overhydration and to correct it for congestion. Methods A 12‐channel ECG that simultaneously provided multifrequency segmental impedance data was used to measure total body water (TBW), extracellular water (ECW), ECW/TBW ratio and appendicular muscle mass (AppMM), validated by whole‐body dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. The mean ECW/TBW ratio was 0.24 ± 0.018 (SD) and 0.25 ± 0.016 for young (age range 20–25 years) healthy males (n = 77) and females (n = 88), respectively. The deviation of the ECW/TBW ratio from this mean was used to correct AppMM for excess ECW (‘dry AppMM’) in 869 healthy controls and in 765 patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) New York Heart Association classes II–IV. The association of AppMM and dry AppMM with grip strength was also examined in 443 controls and patients. Results With increasing N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), a continuous decline of AppMM indices is observed, which is more pronounced for dry AppMM indices (for males with NT‐proBNP 1000 pg/mL: AppMM index mean = 7.6 ± 0.98, AppMM index dry mean = 6.2 ± 1.11 [n = 137, P 1000 pg/mL: AppMM index mean = 5.9 ± 0.96, AppMM index dry mean = 4.8 ± 0.94 [n = 109, P

This paper investigates the potential of expanded clay kiln dust (ECKD) as a sustainable alternative in cementitious materials, aiming to address environmental concerns associated with traditional cement production. The study conducts a comprehensive evaluation, including material characterization, mechanical testing, and microstructural analysis, to assess the performance of ECKD in mortar formulations. Results indicate that ECKD influences various mortar properties, such as workability, air entrainment, and density. Mortar mixes containing 10% of ECKD show enhanced compressive and tensile strength compared to control mixes, indicating its effectiveness as a cement substitute. Moreover, the long-term durability of ECKD samples in seawater revealed promising results, confirming their favorable durability. In conclusion, the study demonstrates the feasibility and efficacy of incorporating ECKD in mortar formulations to mitigate the environmental impact of cement production while enhancing mechanical properties.

Bladder cancer remains a prevalent and challenging malignancy. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) have emerged as key contributors to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, facilitating tumor progression, immune evasion, and resistance to therapies. This review explores the role of MDSC in bladder cancer, highlighting their involvement in immune regulation; tumor progression; and resistance to therapies such as bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) therapy, chemotherapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). We also discuss their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets, with current evidence suggesting that targeting MDSCs, either alone or in combination with existing treatments such as BCG and ICIs, may enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve clinical outcomes. However,, challenges remain, particularly regarding the identification and therapeutic modulation of MDSC subpopulations. Further research is warranted to fully elucidate their role in bladder cancer and to optimize MDSC-targeted therapies.

This concise review provides an overview of some synthetic methods utilized for the preparation of 4(3H)-quinazolinone and benzotriazepine derivatives, and explores their diverse biological activities. The review highlights the significance of these compounds in medicinal chemistry and discusses selected synthetic approaches employed in their synthesis. Additionally, it examines the range of biological activities exhibited by these derivatives and briefly discusses their potential applications. This succinct review serves as a valuable resource for researchers interested in the synthesis and biological evaluation of 4(3H)-quinazolinone and benzotriazepine derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) dose adjustment is based on age, renal function, and body weight. There is a paucity of data describing the factors associated with the prescription of inappropriate dosage and their impact on clinical outcomes among patients receiving transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI)., Methods: In a single-center study, 432 patients who were on long-term DOAC therapy and underwent TAVI between 2015 and 2022 were included. We analyzed the predictors and outcomes of inappropriate dosing of DOACs; namely apixaban, dabigatran, edoxaban, and rivaroxaban. A composite endpoint, including all-cause mortality, life-threatening/major bleeding, stroke, peripheral thromboembolic complications, or myocardial infarction, was assessed after 1 year., Results: In this TAVI cohort, inappropriate DOAC dosing was observed in 20.6% of patients. Inappropriate DOAC dosage was related to female gender (adj. odds ratio [OR] 2.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.64-4.51, p < 0.001) as well as lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (adj. OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.98-1.00, p = 0.019), and to the administration of non-rivaroxaban DOACs (adj. OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.16-0.50, p < 0.001). After 1 year, patients on both appropriate and inappropriate DOAC dosage exhibited comparable rates of the composite endpoint (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.53-1.46, p = 0.622). Old age (adj. OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01-1.10, p = 0.018) as well as anemia (adj. OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.75-0.99, p = 0.031) emerged as independent predictors of the composite endpoint., Conclusions: In this TAVI cohort, female gender and renal insufficiency were associated with inappropriate DOAC dosage, whereas rivaroxaban was linked to appropriate dosing. Inadequate DOAC dosage did not translate into a worse outcome in our TAVI population., Trial Registration: Prospective Segeberg TAVI Registry (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03192774)., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: The hybrid strategy combining plug-based and suture-based vascular closure devices (VCD) was introduced as a promising technique for vascular access hemostasis after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with satisfactory outcomes. However, data comparing two plug-based VCDs each in the combination with a suture-based VCD, namely ProGlide/AngioSeal (P/AS) with ProGlide/FemoSeal (P/FS) VCDs, is still lacking., Aims: To compare the 30-day outcome of the hybrid strategy using P/AS versus P/FS for vascular access site closure after TAVI., Methods: A retrospective single-center observational study included 608 patients recruited from a prospective TAVI registry between 2016 and 2022. The composite endpoint was defined as any VCD-related major vascular complications and/or bleeding more than type 1 according to Valve Academic Research Consortium criteria., Results: The current study reported a significantly higher rate of composite endpoint in P/AS group, which was driven by a higher rate of major bleeding (5.4% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.036). We also found a higher rate of VCD-related minor bleeding in P/AS group (16.3% vs. 8.1%, p = 0.013). Successful access site hemostasis was achieved in 71.7% of P/AS group versus 83.1% in P/FS group (p = 0.006). The presence of anterior wall calcification at the access site was significantly associated with the composite endpoint (adj odds ratio 2.49; 95% confidence interval (1.08-5.75), p = 0.032)., Conclusion: The hybrid strategy for large bore vascular access closure using P/FS showed a potentially better 30-day outcomes compared with P/AS. The presence of anterior calcification at the access site carries a significant risk of VCD-related complications., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

This review examines various modification techniques, including metal doping, non-metal doping, multi doping, mixed doping, and the construction of heterojunction photocatalysts, for enhancing the performance of pure TiO 2 and ZnO in the photodegradation of antibiotics. The study finds that mixed and multi doping approaches are more effective in improving photodegradation performance compared to single doping. Furthermore, the selection of suitable semiconductors for constructing heterojunction photocatalysts is crucial for achieving an efficient charge carrier separation. The environmental impacts, recent research, and real application of photocatalysis process have been discussed. The review also investigates the impact of operating parameters on the degradation pathways and the generation of by-products for different antibiotics. Additionally, the toxicity of the by-products resulting from the photodegradation of antibiotics using modified ZnO and TiO 2 photocatalysts is explored, revealing that these by-products may exhibit higher toxicity than the original antibiotics. Consequently, to enable the widespread implementation of photodegradation systems, researchers should focus on optimizing degradation systems to control the conversion pathways of by-products, developing innovative photoreactors, and evaluating toxicity in real wastewater matrices., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)