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There are no documented electroanalytical methods for quantifying the anti-inflammatory drug bumadizone (BUM) in pharmaceutical or biological matrices. So, a new voltammetric method was developed to determine BUM at nano concentrations in pharmaceutical forms, in the presence of its alkaline degradant, and in biological fluids. Five electrodes were tested, including three nano-reduced graphene oxide (nRGO) electrodes (5%, 15%, and 20%), a carbon paste electrode (CPE), and a 10% nRGO-modified CPE. The 10% nRGO-modified electrode showed the best performance, offering high selectivity and low detection limits, with good linearity in the concentration range of 0.9 × 102 to 15 × 102 ng mL−1. Differential pulse voltammetry successfully applied this electrode for BUM determination in various samples, achieving excellent recovery without preliminary separation. The method was validated according to ICH guidelines and compared favorably to the reference method. Its environmental impact was assessed using AGREE and Eco-scale metrics in addition to the RGB algorithm, showing superior greenness and whiteness profiles due to safer solvents and lower energy consumption, along with high practical effectiveness using the BAGI metric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural products received much attention as an environmentally beneficial solution for pest management. Therefore, the extracts of invasive silverleaf nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium Cav.) weeds using their berries parts (seeds, peels and mucilage) supported by bioassay-guided fractionation were tested against both the greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) and Erwinia carotovora pv. carotovora causes of the blackleg of potatoes. The seeds and peels of S. elaeagnifolium were successively extracted by maceration using dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), and ethanol (EtOH), respectively. While, its mucilage was extracted using EtOAc. The successive EtOH extract of the plant seeds had promising inhibition efficacy and the best minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) of 50 µg/ml against E. Carotovora amongst other extracts (DCM and EtOAc of the plant berries parts). Depending on dose response activity, EtOH extract had G. mellonella larval mortality and pupal duration rates (LC50; 198.30 and LC95; 1294.73 µg/ml), respectively. Additionally, this EtOH extract of seeds was fractionated using preparative TLC to three characteristic bands. The insecticidal and bacterial activities of these isolated bands (SEA, SEB, and SEC) were evaluated at a dose of 100 µg/ml, causing mortality by 48.48, 62.63 and 92.93% (G. mellonella larvae) and inhibition by 15.22, 0.00 and 31.66 mm (E. carotovora), respectively. Moreover, the separated major three bands were tentatively identified using LC-ESI-MS analysis revealing the presence of two phenolic acids; chlorogenic acid (SEA) and dicaffeoyl quinic acid (SEB) in addition to one steroidal saponin (SEC) annotated as borassoside E or yamoscin. Finally, the plant seeds' successive EtOH extract as well as its active constituents, exhibited potential broad-spectrum activity and the ability to participate in future pest management initiatives. A field study is also recommended to validate its bio-efficacy against selected pests and to develop its formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute knee injuries represent a prevalent cause of morbidity among athletes and, if overlooked, could potentially lead to the development of chronic functional limitations. This study aimed to identify marrow contusion patterns around the knee and find the relation between each pattern and the intra- and extra-articular soft tissue injuries. This was a retrospective cross-sectional study carried out on 109 patients who presented to the hospital where the study was held with recent knee joint injury, for which magnetic resonance imaging was requested from January 2017 to January 2019. Results: The entire patient population under investigation had a mean age of 30.2 ± 9.7 years. Regarding gender distribution, the study comprised 90 males (82.6%) and 19 females (17.4%). Regarding bone marrow contusion patterns in all studied patients, it was pivot shift in 58 patients (53.2%), clip injury in 11 patients (10.1%), dashboard injury in 7 patients (6.4%), hyperextension injury in 3 patients (2.8%), lateral patellar dislocation in 15 patients (13.8%), and others in 15 patients (13.8%). In the pivot shift pattern group, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), medial meniscus, and medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries were most commonly seen in 94.8, 50, and 44.8% of patients, respectively. Among the clip pattern group, MCL, ACL, and medial meniscus injuries were most common in 90.9, 36.4, and 36.4%, respectively. Regarding the dashboard injury group, posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), ACL, and medial and lateral menisci were the most common injury structures (100, 57.1, 42.9, and 42.9%, respectively). Despite the hyperextension pattern being found in a small number of patients, it shows 100% medial meniscal and 66.7% PCL injuries. Within the group of lateral patellar dislocation patterns, 100% of cases exhibited injuries to the medial patellofemoral ligament. Conclusions: Precise localization of the marrow contusion around the knee and defining its pattern help to anticipate the most probable associated soft tissue injuries and, thus, can increase our sensitivity in their detection. This can have a better impact on patients' management outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of the conditions involving cartilaginous tissues are irreversible and involve degenerative processes. The aim of the present study was to fabricate a biocompatible fibrous and film scaffolds using electrospinning and casting techniques to induce chondrogenic differentiation for possible application in cartilaginous tissue regeneration. Polycaprolactone (PCL) electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds and PCL film were fabricated and incorporated with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Thereafter, coating of chondroitin sulfate (CS) on the fibrous and film structures was applied to promote chondrogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). First, the morphology, hydrophilicity and mechanical properties of the scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), spectroscopic characterization, water contact angle measurements and tensile strength testing. Subsequently, the effects of the fabricated scaffolds on stimulating the proliferation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and inducing their chondrogenic differentiation were evaluated via electron microscopy, flow cytometry and RT‒PCR. The results of the study demonstrated that the different forms of the fabricated PCL-MWCNTs scaffolds analyzed demonstrated biocompatibility. The nanofilm structures demonstrated a higher rate of cellular proliferation, while the nanofibrous architecture of the scaffolds supported the cellular attachment and differentiation capacity of hDPSCs and was further enhanced with CS addition. In conclusion, the results of the present investigation highlighted the significance of this combination of parameters on the viability, proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation capacity of hDPSCs seeded on PCL-MWCNT scaffolds. This approach may be applied when designing PCL-based scaffolds for future cell-based therapeutic approaches developed for chondrogenic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we determined the refractive index of the air at different pressures and temperatures using a home-built Mach–Zehnder interferometer. The pressure and temperature were controlled using a home-built gas flow system and a temperature controller. A He–Ne laser operating at wavelengths of 632.8 nm was used to illuminate the Mach–Zehnder interferometer to obtain interference fringes. The changes in the number of fringes that crosses the field of view were exploited to calculate the variation in the refractive index with temperature and pressure. Some refractive index-dependent physical constants such as the thermo-optical constant (refractive index temperature coefficient dn/dT), dielectric constant, molar refractivity, and molecular polarizability were calculated for the air at different temperatures and pressure. In the pressure (66–80 cmHg) and temperature (303–338 K) range, the refractive index, dielectric constant, molar refractivity, and molecular polarizability of the air were found to vary between 1.000189 ± 0.000006–1.000281 ± 0.000007, 1.000379 ± 0.000010–1.000562 ± 0.000014, 4.03396 ± 0.13693–4.42908 ± 0.10860 cm3/mol, and 2.01 ± 0.07 × 10–29–2.21 ± 0.05 × 10–29 m3, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients living with obesity continue to experience body image dissatisfaction following bariatric metabolic surgery. The underlying reasons are poorly understood but may be due to unmet expectations. Negative body image perception following metabolic surgery leads to poorer psychological and clinical outcomes. This study aims to establish the acceptability and feasibility of three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and virtual reality (VR) as a method of providing psychological support to bariatric patients to improve body image satisfaction and interventional outcomes. Methods: Seven participants were recruited from the Imperial Weight Centre. 3D photographs were captured and processed to produce two 3D reconstructed images with 15% and 25% total weight loss. Participants were shown their images using VR and participated in peer group workshops. Results: Six participants were retained until the end of the study. Five out of six participants agreed the images provided them with a more accurate representation of their body changes and overall appearance following bariatric metabolic surgery. All participants strongly agreed with the group setting and felt VR facilitated discussions on body image. Overall, all participants felt that the use of VR and 3D reconstruction is beneficial in supporting patients to adjust to changes in their body image after bariatric metabolic surgery. Conclusions: This is the first study to explore and demonstrate that 3D reconstruction and VR is an acceptable and feasible method providing patients with a realistic expectation of how their body will change following significant weight loss, potentially improving body image satisfaction after surgery, as well as psychological and interventional outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Coconut oil, a natural component abundant in terpenoids, possesses various physiological functions. The global concern over the spread of viral infections and antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and fungi has highlighted the need for novel treatments. Coconut oil, with its known antimicrobial properties, presents an attractive candidate for combating these pathogens. This study aims to investigate the potential of coconut oil-loaded silica nanoemulsion (ON@SiO2) as a novel therapeutic agent against viral, antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, and fungal pathogens. Results: The study synthesized coconut oil-loaded silica nanoemulsion (ON@SiO2) using an eco-friendly, cost-effective method with native coconut oil (CO). Characterization confirmed successful synthesis on the nanoscale with good distribution. Three nanoemulsion samples (ON-1@SiO2, ON-2@SiO2, and ON-3@SiO2) were prepared, with average particle sizes of 193 nm, 200 nm, and 325 nm, respectively. Evaluation of cytotoxicity on Vero-E6 cell lines indicated safety of ON-0@SiO2 and ON-3@SiO2, with CC50 values of 97.5 mg/ml and 89.1 mg/ml, respectively. ON-3@SiO2 demonstrated anti-Herpes I and II (HSV1 and HSV2) activity, with IC50 values of 1.9 mg/ml and 2.1 mg/ml, respectively. Additionally, ON-3@SiO2 exhibited promising antibacterial activity against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and B. subtilis, with MIC values of 25 mg/ml, 12.5 mg/ml, 25 mg/ml, and 3.12 mg/ml, respectively. Conclusions: ON-3@SiO2 showed potential antifungal activity against C. albicans, a unicellular fungus, with an MIC of 12.5 mg/ml. Overall, ON@SiO2 possesses antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high strength-to-weight ratio based on advanced polymer hybrid composites is a trend of technological progress. Moreover, these composites are fabricated with natural and synthetic fiber, lacking qualities including moderate tensile strength, lower hardness, and variations in flexural strength, and require additional processing to enrich the adhesive quality using natural fiber. Based on these criteria, the current investigation experiences advanced polymer composite fabrication through hand layup featured with hot compression during the polypropylene (PP) hybrid composite laminate structure formation with the combined action on natural roselle fiber (RF) processed by alkali solution and carbon fiber (CF) under varied stacking sequence. The combined (processing/natural/synthetic/stacking) actions on density, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, mechanical characteristics such as tensile/flexural strength, and fracture toughness of mono polypropylene and its hybrid composites are experimentally evaluated and compared. With the excellence of combined actions, the hybrid polypropylene composite formed with a PP/RF/CF stacking sequence is better than others. This composite's density, tensile/flexural strength, and fracture toughness are 1.33 ± 0.05 g/cc,128 ± 1/162 ± 2 MPa, and 1.51 ± 0.05 MPam0.5.Its XRD images provide better peaks of fiber dispersion along the polypropylene matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of batch assays have been conducted to investigate the optimal factors that can be adopted to improve the anaerobic digestion (AD) performance of Phragmites australis and increase biogas production. The assays were carried out using 125 mL microcosm reactors with a working volume of 80 mL and incubated at mesophilic conditions (37 ± 1ºC). The effect of particle size (10, 5, 2, and < 1 mm) and alkaline pre-treatment of P. australis using various concentrations of sodium hydroxide (0.5, 1, 2, and 4%) on biogas production was examined. Furthermore, the best pre-treatment incubation time (12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h) and the optimal inoculum to substrate ratio (ISR: 4:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2 and 1:4) were also assessed. The results revealed that the highest biogas production from P. australis was achieved at particle size < 1 mm (27.97 ± 0.07 and 16.67 ± 0.09 mL/g VS added, for pre-treated and untreated P. australis respectively); 2% and 4% NaOH concentration for pre-treatment (70.01 ± 3.75 and 76.14 ± 2.62 mL/g VS added, respectively); pre-treatment incubation time of 72, 96, and 120 h (71.18 ± 1.79, 72.46 ± 1.08, and 73.78 ± 1.87 mL/g VS added, respectively); and ISR of 1:2 for pre-treated P. australis (78.21 ± 0.36 mL/g VS added) and ISR 1:4 for untreated P. australis (28.93 ± 1.55 mL/g VS added). Determining optimal parameters in this work would guide further development of process configurations, such as continuous AD systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on determining the effect of the inoculum to substrate ratio (ISR) on biogas production efficiency from the anaerobic co-digestion of two substrates: synthetic food waste and common reeds (Phragmites australis) that were ground and pre-treated using sodium hydroxide at a concentration of 2% to increase access to their cellulose. It also studied the role of different mixing ratios of the two substrates in improving the stability of the digestion process and increasing biogas production. A series of batch tests were carried out under mesophilic conditions using three ratios of ISR: 1:4, 1:2, and 1:1, and five substrate mixing ratios (synthetic food waste: pre-treated P. australis): 25:75, 50:50, 75:25, 100:0, and 0:100. The results showed low biogas production at the ISR 1:4 (21.58±0.00–44.46±0.01 mL/g volatile solid (VS) added), and the reactors suffered from acidification at the different substrates mixing ratios, while the biogas production increased at an ISR of 1:2, where the reactors with the substrate mixing ratio of 25:75 presented the highest biogas production (82.17±0.62 mL/g VS added), and the digestion process was stable. However, the reactors with substrate mixing ratios of 50:50, 75:25, and 100:0 suffered from acidification effects at this ISR. In contrast, at ISR of 1:1, the reactors did not expose to acidification inhibition at all the substrates mixing ratios, and the highest biogas production was found at synthetic food waste: pre-treated P. australis mixing ratios of 75:25 and 100:0 (76.15±1.85 and 82.47±1.85 mL/g VS added, respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatic cancer endures a major health scourge as the consequence of a high incidence of > 1 million cases by 2025. Plant-based products are typically effective in ameliorating health conditions. Pomegranate peel extract (PE) with its high polyphenolic content has anticancer effects against different types of cancer. Herein, we aimed to maximize the PE chemotherapeutic efficacy by loading it in a suitable delivery system to overcome the limitations of PE, to control its release and to achieve liver targeting. Method: A nanoprecipitation procedure was adopted to incorporate PE into biodegradable and biocompatible natural polymeric zein (ZN)-based nanoparticles (NPs) (PE-ZN NPs). A full factorial design (22 × 31) was developed to study the effects of the formulation variables, namely pH of dispersion, PE-to-ZN ratio and surfactant concentration. Results: The optimization revealed a surfactant-free stable PE-ZN NPs formula with a small particle size of 99.5 ± 6.43 nm, high PE encapsulation efficiency % of 99.31% ± 3.64 (w/w) and controlled release of PE over 24 h. Conclusion: Moreover, the cytotoxicity of the optimum formula against hepatic cancer HepG2 cell lines was assessed and attained about a 2.5-fold reduction in the inhibitory concentration (IC50) values compared to the free PE affording a promising green platform to combat hepatic cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid industrial revolution significantly increased heavy metal pollution, becoming a major global environmental concern. This pollution is considered as one of the most harmful and toxic threats to all environmental components (air, soil, water, animals, and plants until reaching to human). Therefore, scientists try to find a promising and eco-friendly technique to solve this problem i.e., bacterial bioremediation. Various heavy metal resistance mechanisms were reported. Omics technologies can significantly improve our understanding of heavy metal resistant bacteria and their communities. They are a potent tool for investigating the adaptation processes of microbes in severe conditions. These omics methods provide unique benefits for investigating metabolic alterations, microbial diversity, and mechanisms of resistance of individual strains or communities to harsh conditions. Starting with genome sequencing which provides us with complete and comprehensive insight into the resistance mechanism of heavy metal resistant bacteria. Moreover, genome sequencing facilitates the opportunities to identify specific metal resistance genes, operons, and regulatory elements in the genomes of individual bacteria, understand the genetic mechanisms and variations responsible for heavy metal resistance within and between bacterial species in addition to the transcriptome, proteome that obtain the real expressed genes. Moreover, at the community level, metagenome, meta transcriptome and meta proteome participate in understanding the microbial interactive network potentially novel metabolic pathways, enzymes and gene species can all be found using these methods. This review presents the state of the art and anticipated developments in the use of omics technologies in the investigation of microbes used for heavy metal bioremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes the potential use of the Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) coupled with the principle component analysis (PCA) for the discrimination/analysis of the precious gold alloy has been reported. It is very hard to discriminate between the Au-Alloys using conventional LIBS and it has been suggested that the use of multivariate methods assisted LIBS could solve the problem. Gold alloys of karats 18 K, 19 K, 20 K, 22 K, and 24 K with concentrations of 75, 79, 85, 93, and 99.9% have been tested and analyzed using LIBS. Plasma was generated on the surface of the target sample by focusing Nd: YAG laser under atmospheric pressure. Time-integrated emission spectra from plasma were collected in the range of 250–870 nm. The characteristic emission lines of constituents were identified using the NIST atomic spectra database. Normalized optical emission intensities of the detected elements were used as input data for principle component analysis (PCA). Five different three-dimensional clusters were observed, that belonged to five different karats of gold, suggesting the reliability of the model for the classification of precious alloy samples. The finding from this study showed that the LIBS coupled with PCA is an effective method for the classification of gold alloys with different percentages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustained inflammatory responses can badly affect several vital organs and lead to chronic inflammation-related disorders, such as atherosclerosis, pneumonia, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancers. Salvia multicaulis is one of the widely distributed plants that contains several biologically active phytochemicals and diterpenoids with anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, finding alternative and safer natural plant-extracted compounds with good curative anti-inflammatory efficiencies is an urgent need for the clinical treatment of inflammation-related diseases. In the current study, S. multicaulis Vahl was used to extract and isolate two compounds identified as salvimulticanol and candesalvone B methyl ester to examine their effects against inflammation in murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells that were induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Accordingly, after culturing RAW264.7 cells and induction of inflammation by LPS (100 ng/ml), cells were exposed to different concentrations (9, 18, 37.5, 75, and 150 µM) of each compound. Then, Griess assay for detection of nitric oxide (NO) levels and western blotting for the determination of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression were performed. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies were employed to investigate the anti-inflammatory mechanism. Our obtained results validated that the level of NO was significantly decreased in the macrophage cell suspensions as a response to salvimulticanol treatment in a dose-dependent manner (IC50: 25.1 ± 1.2 µM) as compared to the methyl ester of candesalvone B which exerted a weaker inhibition (IC50: 69.2 ± 3.0 µM). This decline in NO percentage was comparable with a down-regulation of iNOS expression by western blotting. Salvimulticanol strongly interacted with both the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 2 (MD-2) complex and the inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) kinase subunit beta (IKKβ) to disrupt their inflammatory activation due to the significant hydrogen bonds and effective interactions with amino acid residues present in the target proteins’ active sites. S.multicaulis is a rich natural source of the aromatic abietane diterpenoid, salvimulticanol, which exerted a strong anti-inflammatory effect through targeting iNOS and diminishing NO production in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells in a mechanism that is dependent on the inhibition of TLR4-MD-2 and IKKβ as activators of the classical NF-κB-mediated inflammatory pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the influence of pollution on the quality of sediments and the risks associated with El-Qusier and Safaga Cities, Red Sea, Egypt, during 2021, divided into four sectors, using multiple pollution indices. To achieve that, we evaluated the metal pollution index (MPI), contamination factor (Cf), pollution load index (PLI), contamination security index (CSI), and anthropogenicity (Anp%). Moreover, carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks are used for human health hazards. Results indicated that Mn and Fe recorded the highest concentrations, whereas Cd had the lowest. El-Quseir City sediments were found the following metal ions: Fe > Mn > Ni > Zn > Cu > Co > Pb > Cd, where the order in the Safaga City was: Fe > Mn > Zn > Ni > Cu > Pb > Co > Cd. MPI > 1, this is alarming in the study area due to heavy metal pollution. In addition, Cf < 1 in all metals except Cd with contamination degree CD ranged from low to considerable contamination in El-Qusier city. In contrast, contamination ranged from significant to very high in Safaga city. PLI < 1 is lower than the reference at all monitored stations. CSI values ranged from relatively low to moderate. Besides Cd, data reflect each element's low environmental danger (EriMe40). This study's risk index (RI) is low to moderate in Sector 1 and high to extremely high in Sector 2. HQ and HI index < 1 means it is safe for human health in order: HI ingestion > HI dermal. CSR for different pathways was recorded as dermal > ingestion, in which total CSR for all paths is considered harmful, and the cancer risk is troublesome and higher than the reference ranges of 1 × 10–6–1 × 10–4. In conclusion, the examined heavy metals provide environmental hazards across the assessed locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Chronic abdominal pain after RYGB is a known issue. Identifying the potential patient-related and modifiable risk factors might contribute to diminish the risk for this undesirable outcome. Methods: A single-center retrospective cohort study with prospective data collection was conducted with inclusion of all patients who underwent RYGB surgery between 2015 and 2021. Data from the NBSR and medical records were used. Patients with chronic abdominal pain were defined when pain lasting or recurring for more than 3 to 6 months. Results: Six hundred sixty-four patients who underwent RYGB surgery were included with a median follow-up of 60.5 months. Forty-nine patients (7.3%) presented with chronic abdominal pain. Postoperative complications (OR 13.376, p = 0.020) and diagnosis of depression (OR 1.971, p = 0.037) were associated with developing abdominal pain. On the other hand, ex-smokers (OR 0.222, p = 0.040) and older age (0.959, p = 0.004) presented as protective factors. Conclusion: Postoperative complications and diagnosis of depression are risk factors for chronic pain after RYGB. The role of the bariatric MDT remains crucial to select these patients adequately beforehand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solution-casting was used to create films of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanocomposite containing different concentrations of Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs). The co-precipitation technique was used to synthesize Fe3O4@SiO2 NPs. Fe3O4@SiO2 impact on the PVA structure was investigated via X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscope, and Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) techniques. XRD reveals the destruction of the PVA semi-crystallinity with the Fe3O4@SiO2 additive. FT-IR analysis supported hydrogen bond formation between PVA molecules and the Fe3O4@SiO2 surface. The UV–visible spectrophotometer was used to investigate the optical parameters. The optical bandgap decreased with increasing the Fe3O4@SiO2 concentration in the PVA matrix. Based on the optical bandgap, the theoretical linear refractive index (n) was deduced with theoretical models. The enhancement in the nonlinear refractive index and nonlinear optical susceptibility with the Fe3O4@SiO2 additive to the PVA matrix makes it a possible material for nonlinear optical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The inferior turbinate is located in the inferior part of the nose, and contribute to the nasal valve formation. Inferior turbinate hypertrophy causes chronic nasal obstruction. Aim: We aimed to assess the effectiveness of coblation-assisted reduction of the inferior turbinate hypertrophy using a specially designed coblator probe. Additionally, this study aimed to compare this technique with traditional surgical partial turbinectomy as the control arm and follow up with patients to identify potential complications. Methods: This study involved 40 patients with nasal obstruction, those patients attended the Otorhinolaryngology Department of Al Azhar University Hospital in Assiut and diagnosed with enlarged inferior turbinate that did not respond to medical treatment. Also, Pre- and post-operative CT scanning was performed to objectively evaluate the improvement. Results: Coblation group has more advantages over the traditional group like less operative time, less intraoperative blood loss, less post-op pain, less post-op nasal crusts, early return to daily activity (P value < 0.001). Significant decrease in postoperative nasal obstruction among partial inferior turbinectomy group in comparison with coblation group (P value < 0.001). Conclusion: Coblation assisted inferior turbinate reduction of the hypertrophied inferior turbinate is the technique of less complications (i.e. post-operative pain, bleeding, and nasal crust), which are commonly encountered with traditional methods. Traditional method is a bit better in patient self-satisfaction after surgery and relieving post-operative nasal obstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of wound dressing materials to tackle skin pathogens colonization that is associated with open wound infections is limited. Recently, green-synthesized metal oxide nanoparticles has received a lot of attention to overcome this limitation. However, titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) exhibit exceptional antibacterial properties. In this work, several concentrations (0, 1, 3, and 5 wt.%) of TiO2 NPs prepared using Aloe vera leaf extract were added to a blend of polyvinyl alcohol and sodium alginate (PVA:SA). This nanocomposite was designed to enhance the healing process of wounds. The interaction between the PVA:SA composite and the TiO2 NPs was confirmed by FTIR. The thermal behavior of the nanocomposite films was investigated using DSC and TGA. The experimental results indicate that the glass transition temperatures of the nanocomposites increased by increasing the added amount of TiO2 NPs to be 53.7 °C (1 wt.%), 55.8 °C (3 wt.%), and 60.6 °C (5 wt.%), which were consistently lower than the glass transition temperature of the matrix material (69.6 °C). The Dynamic Mechanical Analysis was examined. The nanocomposite doped with 5 wt.% of TiO2 NPs detected a high storage modulus (21.6 × 108). Based on swelling and degradation studies, the prepared PVA:SA:TiO2 nanocomposite films have an excellent swelling rate, and the inclusion of TiO2 NPs increases the stability of the polymeric matrix. The PVA:SA:TiO2 nanocomposite films exhibited a superior antibacterial efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria such as Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus, compared to their effectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria like Escherichia coli. Moreover, the nanocomposite films were biocompatible with Human Skin Fibroblast. Therefore, the developed PVA:SA:TiO2 nanocomposite films suit wound dressing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optical properties of Malachite green (Mg) dye were examined experimentally, including absorption, optical energy gab, refractive index, dielectric constant, optical conductivity and emission spectra in various solvents. Additionally, several significant photophysical parameters were evaluated, including the extinction coefficient (ε), the energy yield of fluorescence (Ef), the length of attenuation Λ (λ), oscillator strength (f), quantum yield (Øf), fluorescence lifetime ( τ f ), decay rate radiative constant (kr), and the dipole moment (μ) in addition to absorption and emission cross-sections (σa) and (σe) respectively. Time Dependent Density function theory (TD-DFT) computations were used to generate the theoretical absorption spectra of the (Mg) compound. The energy gap (Eg), electron density, and electrostatic potential were also simulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The direct contact evaporation of n-pentane volatile liquid drop in a warm flowing immiscible liquid (water) has been investigated experimentally. A Perspex column with a 10 cm internal diameter and 100 cm active height was used in the experiments. N-pentane at its saturated temperature (~36 °C) and distilled warm water were utilised as a continuous and dispersed phase. The warm water, with three different Jacobs numbers (Ja), (Ja = 6.1, 23 and 46.3), flows from the top of the column and leaves from the bottom at three different Reynolds numbers (Re = 3250, 6500 and 9750). The evaporation of the drop while rising along the column was filmed with a Photron FASTCAM high-speed camera ( 65,000 f/s). All images were analysed using AutoCAD, and the two-phase bubble, the vaporisation ratio and the half-opening vapour angle were measured. The convective heat transfer coefficient in terms of Nusselt number (Nu) was predicted based on the measured two-phase bubble radius through the experiments. The effect of Reynolds's number (Re), Jacobs's number (Ja), vaporisation ratio (x), and diameter ratio (B) on Nu were investigated. The experimental results revealed that Nu increased with time. The Re and Ja significantly affected the time-dependent Nu. Although the final Nu was nearly the same for all cases (Nu = 21), the higher the continuous phase Re, the higher the Nu, especially with the progress of evaporation . In addition, the results showed that Ja inversely influenced the average Nu, and the final value of Nu depended strongly on Ja. The higher the Ja, the lower the average Nu and the shorter the time for complete evaporation. In this regard, the dimensionless time required for complete drop evaporation was about 38, 60 and 120 for Ja of 46.3, 23 and 6.1, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel hybrid ternary metallic electrocatalyst of amorphous Mo/Co oxides and crystallized Cu metal was deposited over Ni foam using a one-pot, simple, and scalable solvothermal technique. The chemical structure of the prepared ternary electrocatalyst was systematically characterized and confirmed via XRD, FTIR, EDS, and XPS analysis techniques. FESEM images of (Mo/Co)Ox–Cu@NF display the formation of 3D hierarchical structure with a particle size range of 3–5 µm. The developed (Mo/Co)Ox–Cu@NF ternary electrocatalyst exhibits the maximum activity with 188 mV and 410 mV overpotentials at 50 mA cm−2 for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), respectively. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results for the (Mo/Co)Ox–Cu@NF sample demonstrate the minimum charge transfer resistance (Rct) and maximum constant phase element (CPE) values. A two-electrode cell based on the ternary electrocatalyst just needs a voltage of about 1.86 V at 50 mA cm−2 for overall water splitting (OWS). The electrocatalyst shows satisfactory durability during the OWS for 24 h at 10 mA cm−2 with an increase of only 33 mV in the cell potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The upgrade of sustainable resource waste into a valuable and beneficial material is an urgent task. The current paper outlines the development of an economical, sustainable, and prolonged adsorbent derived from Sargassum siliquastrum biomass and its use for potent 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) removal. A simple carbonization approach was applied to obtain the highly functionalized carbon structure, which was subsequently transformed into a novel magnetic nanoadsorbent. The magnetic nanoadsorbent was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), Brunauer Emmett Teller (BET)-specific surface area, and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The characterization results confirm the successful formation of a high specific surface area and a uniform distribution of Fe3O4/NiS NPs grafted activated carbon. The adsorption kinetics was more accurately described via the pseudo-second order model; nevertheless, the isothermal data showed that the Langmuir model was most suitable. The monolayer adsorption capacity for 2,4-D was 208.26 ± 15.75 mg/g at 328 K. The favourability and spontaneity of the adsorption process were demonstrated by thermodynamic studies. The adsorbent displayed exceptional selectivity for 2,4-D and high stability in multi-cycle use. Electrostatic attraction, π-π stacking, and hydrogen bonding were all believed to have an impact on the sorbent's robust 2,4-D adsorption. Analyses of real tap and Nile River water samples showed little effect of the sample matrix on 2,4-D adsorption. This study presents an innovative approach for developing highly efficient adsorbent from natural biomass and offers an affordable way to recycle algal waste into beneficial materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burn injuries pose a significant healthcare burden worldwide, often leading to long-term disabilities and reduced quality of life. To explore the impacts of the transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on the healing of burns and the levels of serum cytokines, 60 fully grown Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 20 each): group I (control), group II (burn induction), and group III (burn induction + bone marrow (BM)-MSC transplantation). Groups II and III were further divided into four subgroups (n = 5 each) based on euthanasia duration (7, 14, 21, and 28 days post transplant). The experiment concluded with an anesthesia overdose for rat death. After 7, 14, 21, and 28 days, the rats were assessed by clinical, laboratory, and histopathology investigations. The results revealed significant improvements in burn healing potentiality in the group treated with MSC. Furthermore, cytokine levels were measured, with significant increases in interleukin (IL)-6 and interferon alpha (IFN) observed, while IL-10 and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) decreased at 7 days and increased until 28 days post burn. Also, the group that underwent the experiment exhibited increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 when compared to the control group. Histological assessments showed better re-epithelialization, neovascularization, and collagen deposition in the experimental group, suggesting that MSC transplantation in burn wounds may promote burn healing by modulating the immune response and promoting tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotreatment of oily sludge and the involved microbial communities, particularly in saline environments, have been rarely investigated. We enriched a halophilic bacterial consortium (OS-100) from petroleum refining oily sludge, which degraded almost 86% of the aliphatic hydrocarbon (C10-C30) fraction of the oily sludge within 7 days in the presence of 100 g/L NaCl. Two halophilic hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria related to the genera Chromohalobacter and Halomonas were isolated from the OS-100 consortium. Hydrocarbon degradation by the OS-100 consortium was relatively higher compared to the isolated bacteria, indicating potential synergistic interactions among the OS-100 community members. Exclusion of FeCl2, MgCl2, CaCl2, trace elements, and vitamins from the culture medium did not significantly affect the hydrocarbon degradation efficiency of the OS-100 consortium. To the contrary, hydrocarbon biodegradation dropped from 94.1 to 54.4% and 5% when the OS-100 consortium was deprived from phosphate and nitrogen sources in the culture medium, respectively. Quantitative PCR revealed that alkB gene expression increased up to the 3rd day of incubation with 11.277-fold, consistent with the observed increments in hydrocarbon degradation. Illumina-MiSeq sequencing of 16 S rRNA gene fragments revealed that the OS-100 consortium was mainly composed of the genera Halomonas, Idiomarina, Alcanivorax and Chromohalobacter. This community structure changed depending on the culturing conditions. However, remarkable changes in the community structure were not always associated with remarkable shifts in the hydrocarbonoclastic activity and vice versa. The results show that probably synergistic interactions between community members and different subpopulations of the OS-100 consortium contributed to salinity tolerance and hydrocarbon degradation. Key points: • A halophilic bacterial consortium efficiently degrades oily sludge hydrocarbons. • Nitrogen starvation and high salinity have the greatest impact on hydrocarbon loss. • Change in the consortium structure is not a prerequisite to shift biodegradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalga would be the paramount resource of biodiesel able of satisfying the world requirements for transportation fuels, which could fully replace the petrodiesel. Therefore, the research studies focus on developing novel biodiesel production methods. The present study investigates the effect of monochromatic light such as red light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and He–Ne red laser radiation on the accumulated lipid and the growth of the green microalgae Chlorella sorokiniana. The irradiation of microalgal cells with He–Ne red laser source which has a wavelength of 632.8 nm was hypothesized to enhance the accumulation of lipid inside the algal cells, which ultimately increases the biodiesel production. The photobiostimulating effects of laser irradiation on biodiesel was investigated by irradiating the microalga for a duration of 2 h with 632.8 nm He–Ne red laser source compared with 2 h irradiation with red LEDs and 2 h irradiation with white light (the control). The results showed that the oil content inside the algal cells irradiated with He–Ne red laser was 3.1 times the algal cells irradiated with white light (the control). Similarly, the biodiesel yielded from the algal cells irradiated with He–Ne red laser was 3.1 times the biodiesel yielded from the algal cells irradiated with white light (the control). However, the oil content and the biodiesel yield from algal cells irradiated with red LEDs were only 0.82 times those of the control. Therefore, it was concluded that the irradiation of microalga with red laser increases the biodiesel yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide proof-of-concept for the innovative method of 2,6-dichloroindophenol (DCPIP) for measuring the antioxidant activity of plant extracts. Antioxidant content can be determined using the standard DCPIP test and compare the results with the DPPH results as conventional method. DCPIP operates on the premise that the deep blue color of the oxidized dye is reduced to an invisible solution. Ascorbic acid's antioxidant activity was measured by DCPIP at different times (from 1 to 60 min) and was concentration-dependent, with the maximum activity being at 400 g/mL. In addition, when compared to other incubation durations, the ascorbic acid standard, a natural antioxidant, gave the maximum activity within the first five minutes of incubation with DCPIP. DCPIP is a marker of antioxidant activity both against vitamin C and plant extracts. The DCPIP approach is quick and unaffected by pH variation. The stability of the DCPIP reagent over time (5 and 30 min) and color reduction by ascorbic acid as a natural antioxidant standard were demonstrated using a straightforward and quick method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, first-principles numerical computations for zinc-blende ternary alloys (In1−xAlxSb) are performed concerning elastic, structural, electronic, thermal, and optical properties. This study is carried out using the "full-potential linearized augmented-plane-wave plus local-orbital, (FP-L(APW + lo))" approach framed within "density functional theory" and realized in the WIEN2k computational package. From our computational work, performed at the level of generalized gradient approximation suggested by Wu and Cohen (GGA-WC) for the exchange–correlation functional, we see that our obtained results for the structural parameters of the title alloys (In1−xAlxSb) are increasing with increasing concentration x, and by and large, follow the Vegard's law. To predict reliable electronic and optical properties "Tran–Blaha modified Becke–Johnson (mBJ)" potential approach was employed. We note, except at x = 1 and x = 0.75, electronic band gaps are of direct nature for evaluated concentrations of the title alloys. In addition, noticeable variation is noted in the optical parameters with x concentration. For analyzing the thermal character of the title alloys, the "quasi-harmonic Debye model" scheme is used. Comparison of obtained results with experimental and predicted ones is found in good agreement where available. Hence our computational study of the title alloys endorses the reliability of our investigations and might offer a valuable platform for future predictions and experimental work as well as suggest that title material is the best candidate for optoelectronics. The optical quantities obtained using mBJ show low energy loss and reflectivity and high absorption capability in the infrared and visible regions for In1−xAlxSb, making these materials potential candidates in solar cell applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gallibacterium anatis (G. anatis), a member of the Pasteurellaceae family, normally inhabits the upper respiratory and lower genital tracts of poultry. However, under certain circumstances of immunosuppression, co-infection (especially with Escherichia coli or Mycoplasma), or various stressors, G. anatis caused respiratory, reproductive, and systemic diseases. Infection with G. anatis has emerged in different countries worldwide. The bacterium affects mainly chickens; however, other species of domestic and wild birds may get infected. Horizontal, vertical, and venereal routes of G. anatis infection have been reported. The pathogenicity of G. anatis is principally related to the presence of some essential virulence factors such as Gallibacterium toxin A, fimbriae, haemagglutinin, outer membrane vesicles, capsule, biofilms, and protease. The clinical picture of G. anatis infection is mainly represented as tracheitis, oophoritis, salpingitis, and peritonitis, while other lesions may be noted in cases of concomitant infection. Control of such infection depends mainly on applying biosecurity measures and vaccination. The antimicrobial sensitivity test is necessary for the correct treatment of G. anatis. However, the development of multiple drug resistance is common. This review article sheds light on G. anatis regarding history, susceptibility, dissemination, virulence factors, pathogenesis, clinical picture, diagnosis, and control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The condensation of pyrrole-2,5-dicarbaldehyde (1) with 5-(2-amino-4-phenylthiazol-5-yl)-4-phenylthiazol-2-amine (2) and/or 5-(4-Amino-phenyl)-4-phenylthiazol-2-amine (3) gave new poly(Z)-N-((5-(iminomethyl)-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methylene)-5-(2-((E)-(5-(iminomethyl)-I-pyrrol-2-yl)methyleneamino)-4-phenylthiazol-5-yl)-4-phenylthiaol-2-amine (P1) and/or poly(E)-N-((5-(iminomethyl)-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methylene)-5-(4-((E)-(5-(iminomethyl)-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)methyleneamino)phenyl)-4-phenylthiaol-2-amine (P2) as a novel conjugated polymer by microwave irradiation and traditional heating.. It is evident that the microwave irradiation technique quickly raised the molecular weight of polyimines. In addition to quantifying the molecular weight of the resultant polyimines. All the polyimines were characterized using FTIR, XRD, H1NMR, TGA, and DSC. The optical characteristics of polyimine derivatives were investigated using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer. The absorption spectra showed a main absorption band around 372 nm for polyimine (P1) and 381 nm for polyimine (P2). The optical energy was calculated and found to be 2.49 and 2.68 eV. The photoluminescence of the polyimine derivatives was measured and analyzed by spectrofluorometer and Laser photoluminescence experiment and the emission color was studied using CIE graphs. The fluorescence spectra showed an emission peak at 548 nm for polyimine (P1) with yellow green color in CIE graph, while for polyimine (P2) the emission band was located at 440.5 nm with blue color in CIE graph. Photoluminescence quantum yield PLQY was measured for the polyimine P1 and P2 in both liquid and Solid states and indicated the AIE behavior of the polyimines. TD-DFT simulations were applied to the polyimine derivatives where the structures were geometrically optimized and the spectroscopic characterizations were evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antibacterial activity of a variety of modified poly(methyl methacrylate) Schiff bases against common microbial infections and removal of methylene blue (MB) dye were screened. The Schiff bases were synthesized from the reaction of the modified (PMMA) with vanillin (PMMA)Van and cinnamaldehyde (PMMA)Cin. By using Fourier transformer infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the structures of the nanofibers of the synthesized Schiff bases were confirmed. The modified Kirky–Bauer method was used to screen the antibacterial activities of all the obtained materials against various bacterial species, including gram-positive bacterial (Bacillus subtilis (4k1p), Staphylococcus aureus), Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli (7ab3), Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Inhibition zones against gram-positive bacteria ranged in diameter from 7 to 14 mm, whereas for the Gram-negative bacteria, the inhibition zones found to be ranged between 6 and 13 mm. With a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 8 mg/mL and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 2 mg/mL, (PMMA)Van shown the greatest antibacterial activity. Lastly, molecular docking research was done to better understand the interactions between this series' targets and inhibitors for (PMMA)Van and (PMMA)Cin (4k1p and 7ab3). Molecular modeling of these surface-adsorbed polymers indicated that (PMMA)Van binds more strongly with Nitrogen than does (PMMA)Cin through extra hydrogen-bonding interactions. All the developed materials were evaluated for the removal of 0.1 g/L methylene blue dye (MB) from an aqueous solution. The elimination percentage of MB dye ranged from 26.67% by using 0.05 g powder of (PMMA)Cin to 85.63% by employing 0.05 g nanofibers of (PMMA)Van. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the linguistic interval-valued bipolar neutrosophic fuzzy number and operational laws are defined. We introduce the score and accuracy functions. We introduce the six aggregation operators composed of LGIVBNEFWA, LGIVBNEFOWA, LGIVBNEFHWA, LGIVBNEFWG, LGIVBNEFOWG and LGIVBNEFHWG operators are developed. Also, various associated essential theorems are presented, and special cases of these operators are thoroughly examined. Two new methods based on developed aggregation and geometric operators are proposed. Moreover, numerical examples are included to demonstrate the proposed techniques. Furthermore, both the methods are compared with the existing ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent time, the two significant events; Coronavirus epidemic and Russian invasion are effecting all over the world in various aspects; healthily, economically, environmentally, and socially, etc. The first event has brought uncertainties to the economic situation in most countries based on the epidemic transmission. In addition to that, on 24th February 2022 the Russian invasion of Ukraine affected negatively almost all stock markets all over the world, but the effects are heterogeneous across countries according to their economic-political relationship or neighbourhood, etc. Due to that, the stock market price in Turkey has been affected dramatically over that period. This empirical study is the first attempts to explore the impact of Coronavirus epidemic and Russian invasion on the stock market index XU100 in Turkey by applying the developed statistical method namely elastic-net regression based on empirical mode decomposition which can precisely tackle the nonstationary and nonlinearity data. Then we performed the robustness check by applying a nonlinear techniques Markov switching regression. The data are collected from the beginning of the epidemic in Turkey from March 11, 2020 until May 31, 2022. The finding reveals that there is significant effect of the Coronavirus spreading on the Turkish stock market index, particularly during the first wave. Then after the Russian Invasion the XU100 index is effected more negatively. As the credit default swap and TL reference interest rate have a negative impact but the foreigner exchange rate has a positive significant impact on the XU100 index, and it varies according to the period of short term and long term. Moreover, the results obtained by using the robustness check shows a robust and consistent finding. In conclusion, understanding the impact of Coronavirus pandemic and Russian invasion on the Turkish stock market can provide important implications for investors, financial sectors, and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the physical properties of a material is crucial to realising its practical technological applications. In this regard, a study related to phase stability, transition pressure, electronic properties, optical properties, and thermal properties of GaAs, GaN, as well as their mixed ternary alloys GaN0.25As0.75, GaN0.5As0.5 and GaN0.75As0.25 is presented. The study is performed by employing a “full-potential-linearized augmented plane wave plus local-orbital (FP-L(APW + lo)) approach framed within the density functional theory (DFT)” and recognized within WIEN2k computational code. The results of the phase stability show that the GaNxAs1–x alloys are stable for all compositions in the zinc blende phase (B3), except for x = 1, whereas the structure corresponding to the x = 1 composition is found to be more stable in the wurtzite (B4) phase. The physical properties of the more stable phases corresponding to each composition are explored. The pressure-induced phase transition is also investigated, corresponding to each composition. The electronic and optical properties are investigated using the “Tran–Blaha modified Becke–Johnson (mBJ)” potential approach. To explore the thermal properties, the "quasi-harmonic Debye model" approach is employed. Our calculated results of the absorption coefficients and optical band gap show that these alloys could be appropriate candidates for applications in solar cells and optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The potential of Ni-C72 and Ni-Al36P36 as effective catalysts for O3 decomposition is examined by LH and ER mechanisms. The activation barrier energy and Gibbs free energy of reaction steps for O3 decomposition on Ni-C72 and Ni-Al36P36 are calculated. The ∆Eformation of Ni-C72 and Ni-Al36P36 are negative values and these structures are stable nano-catalysts. The Ni atoms are catalytic positions to adsorb the O3 and other important species of O3 decomposition by LH and ER mechanisms. The Ni-Al36P36 for O3 decomposition has lower Eacivation and more negative ∆Greaction than Ni-C72. The Eacivation value of rate-determining step for O3 decomposition by LH mechanism is lower than ER mechanism. The Ni-C72 and Ni-Al36P36 can catalyze the reaction steps of O3 decomposition by LH and ER mechanisms. Methods: The structures of Ni-C72 and Ni-Al36P36 nanocages and their complexes with O3 and other important species of are optimized by PW91PW91/6–311 + G (2d, 2p) model and M06-2X/cc-pVQZ model in GAMESS software. The strcutures of nanocages and their complexes with important species of O3 decomposition by LH and ER mechanisms are optimized and their frequencies are calculated in order to demonstrate that these structures are real minima on the potential energy surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic activities, climate variability and environmental stresses have greatly affected forest ecosystems globally. Thus, monitoring of forest health is essential for proper planning and effective management. The present study employed an integrated approach of remote sensing and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process to assess the forest health in the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in India. Advanced vegetation index, normalized difference vegetation index, normalized difference moisture index, forest fragmentation, rainfall and soil types were derived from remote sensing data. Multiple buffer zones of villages, roads, railways and canals were also determined for analyzing the forest health status. These layers were prepared in the geographical information system. These layers were given weightage using fuzzy analytic hierarchy process. These layers were integrated to prepare forest health map using weighted overlay method. The results revealed that the largest forest area was found under moderately healthy forest (37%) followed by healthy forest (31%) and unhealthy forest (13%). Of the total area of the Reserve, 19% area was under non-forest category. Human-induced disturbances such as encroachment, illegal sand mining, livestock grazing and forest conversion to agriculture have been attributed to the unhealthy forest in the Reserve. The receiver operating characteristic curve value and area under curve (0.792) show reliability of forest health map. The findings of this study may be helpful for forest managers, conservationists and local communities in devising sustainable strategies for effective management of the forest. The methodological framework adopted in this study may be utilized in other geographical regions interested in assessing forest health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study non-Bayesian and Bayesian estimation of parameters for the Kumaraswamy distribution based on progressive Type-II censoring. First, the maximum likelihood estimates and maximum product spacings are derived. In addition, we derive the asymptotic distribution of the parameters and the asymptotic confidence intervals. Second, Bayesian estimators under symmetric and asymmetric loss functions (Squared error, linear exponential, and general entropy loss functions) are also obtained. The Lindley approximation and the Markov chain Monte Carlo method are used to derive the Bayesian estimates. Furthermore, we derive the highest posterior density credible intervals of the parameters. We further present an optimal progressive censoring scheme among different competing censoring scheme using three optimality criteria. Simulation studies are conducted to evaluate the performance of the point and interval estimators. Finally, one application of real data sets is provided to illustrate the proposed procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PbS1–xOx (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2) samples were prepared using the solid-state reaction method at low temperature. Rietveld refinement was performed, and the obtained structural and microstructural parameters for all PbS1–xOx samples. The occupancy of diffused oxygen ions at Wyckoff position 4b (½½½) is increased on the expense of sulfur, which is consistent with the results obtained by the energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. The samples surface morphology of the prepared samples was probed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra were measured for the sample to examine the chemical composition and find out the effect of decreasing sulfur (x). The effect of sulfur deficiency in PbS1–xOx system on the linear and nonlinear optical parameters was explored using the UV diffused reflectance technique. The refractive index of each sample exhibited a normal dispersion. The values of Eg for PbS1–xOx samples (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2) are 0.84, 0.79, 0.83, 0.81 and 0.72 eV, respectively. The photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra for all samples were measured. The origin of different emitted colors was also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical properties of boron nitride (BN) have been studied in novel crystal structures such as hexagonal (h), wurtzite (w), 5–5, GeP, Li2O2, MoC, NiAs, and TiAs. The calculations of structural, electronic, and optical properties of BN have been carried out by "the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave plus local orbital (FP-LAPW + lo)" method framed within the "density functional theory (DFT)". The phonon band structures have been determined using the pseudo-potential-based approach realized in the CASTEP code, indicating that the h, w, 5–5, Li2O2, and MoC do not exhibit phonon modes at negative frequency, whereas, GeP, NiAs, and TiAs modifications exhibit phonon modes at the negative frequency. However, the novel polymorphs of BN demonstrated cohesive energies higher/comparable to that of the ground state h-BN. The lattice parameters of h and w structures of BN calculated through "Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof—generalized gradient approximation (PBE–GGA)" are in good agreement with the available theoretical and experimental data. The band structures calculations indicate that BN crystallized in h, w, GeP, Li2O2, MoC, NiAs, and TiAs show indirect bandgap, whereas the 5–5 phase shows direct bandgap. The bandgap values show that h-BN and w-BN are insulators, and 5–5, GeP, Li2O2, MoC, NiAs, and TiAs are semiconductors. Optical parameters, such as the real part of the dielectric function, the imaginary part of the dielectric, reflectivity, absorption coefficients, and refraction spectrum related to all the considered polymorphs, have been studied. These novel polymorphs with greatly evolved physical behavior would be interesting for applications in the current semiconducting industry and other futuristic technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the use of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) as a surgical procedure for obesity. It explores the factors that can predict mid-term outcomes after LSG, such as early postoperative weight loss and chronic inflammation. The study found that patients who had less than 37.7% excess body-weight loss within three months were less likely to achieve significant weight loss at six, twelve, and twenty-four months post-LSG. High Body Mass Index (BMI), a raised neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and female sex were identified as predictors of suboptimal weight loss. The article suggests that monitoring inflammatory markers like NLR can help identify patients at high risk of suboptimal outcomes. Additionally, it discusses the role of chronic inflammation in obesity and the potential for dietary modifications, physical exercise, and pharmacological interventions to reduce inflammation and improve weight loss outcomes. The article concludes by highlighting the need for further research to develop comprehensive predictive models and assess the effectiveness of treatment modalities. [Extracted from the article]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the major life-threatening primary liver malignancy in both sexes all over the world. Unfortunately, the majority of patients are diagnosed at later stages because HCC does not elicit obvious symptoms during its early incidence. Consequently, most individuals escape the first-line HCC treatments and are treated with chemotherapy. Regrettably, the therapeutic outcomes for those patients are usually poor because of the development of multidrug resistance phenomena. Furthermore, most anti-HCC therapies cause severe undesired side effects that notably interfere with the life quality of such patients. Accordingly, there is an important need to search for an alternative therapeutic drug or adjuvant which is more efficient with safe or even minimal side effects for HCC treatment. Melatonin was recently reported to exert intrinsic antitumor activity in different cancers. However, the regulatory pathways underlying the antitumor activity of melatonin are poorly understood in resistant liver cells. Furthermore, a limited number of studies have addressed the therapeutic role of melatonin in HCC cells resistant to doxorubicin chemotherapy. In this study, we investigated the antitumor effects of melatonin in doxorubicin-resistant HepG2 cells and explored the regulatory pivotal targets underlying these effects. To achieve our aim, an MTT assay was used to calculate the 50% inhibitory concentration of melatonin and evaluate its antiproliferative effect on resistant cells. Additionally, qRT-PCR was used to quantify genes having a role in drug resistance phenotype (ABCB1, ABCC1, ABCC2, ABCC3, ABCC4, ABCC5, and ABCG2); apoptosis (caspases-3, and -7, Bcl2, Bax, and p53); anti-oxidation (NRF2); expression of melatonin receptors (MT1, MT2, and MT3); besides, programmed death receptor PD-1 gene. The active form of the caspase-3 enzyme was estimated by ELISA. A human inflammatory antibody membrane array was employed to quantify forty inflammatory factors expressed in treated cells. We observed that melatonin inhibited the proliferation of doxorubicin-resistant HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner after 24-h incubation time with a calculated IC50 greater than 10 mM (13.4 mM), the expression levels of genes involved in drug resistance response (ABCB1, ABCC1, ABCC5, and ABCG2) were downregulated. Also, the expression of caspase-3, Caspase-7, NRF2, and p53 genes were expressed at higher levels as compared to control (DMSO-treated cells). An active form of caspase-3 was confirmed by ELISA. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory effect of melatonin was detected through the calculated fold change to control which was reduced for various mediators that have a role in the inflammation pathway. The current findings introduce melatonin as a promising anti-cancer treatment for human-resistant HCC which could be used in combination with current chemotherapeutic regimens to improve the outcome and reduce the developed multidrug resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, for the concentrations of x=0.0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0, the calculations of the physical properties of GaP1–xNx mixed alloys are presented. To perform these calculations, we employ WIEN2k computational code based on the approach of full-potential linearized augmented plane wave plus local orbital FP(L(APW+lo)), which is framed within density functional theory. At first, at the level of the WC-GGA scheme, the phase stability of the GaP1–xNx alloys in their sodium chloride (B1), zinc-blende (B3) and wurtzite (B4) structures were analysed. The analysis of our results shows that GaP, GaP0.75N0.25, GaP0.5N0.5 and GaP0.25N0.75 are stable in B3 crystal structure, whereas GaN is found to be stabilized in wurtzite structure. Moreover, for each concentration, the pressure-induced phase transition of B3 and B4 structures to B1 structure is also explored. On the other hand, the calculations of the band structures show changeover of indirect band gap energy for GaP with energy gap 2.23 eV to direct band nature for GaN with band gap energy 3.183 eV. Likewise, the optical properties are explored for the energy range of 0.0–40 eV. The investigations of the thermodynamic properties, for example, entropy, Debye temperature, specific heat are carried out at the level of the 'quasi-harmonic Debye model'. Moreover, the effect on the thermodynamic properties by temperature and pressure is also predicted. The results obtained for band gap energy as well as the optical absorption coefficients endorse that the investigated compositions of the alloys are very right for infrared to visible region optoelectronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Borate glasses (BG) doped with different amounts of ZnO (0–0.6 mol%) were formed by the traditional melt quenching technique. The different glasses so made were characterized using different characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and UV–Vis absorption optical properties. The XRD patterns showed an amorphous structure with one broad peak at 2θ = 29°, while the phonons bands were studied in terms of the FTIR bands. Optical properties of the glasses were studied using UV–Vis absorption spectra in the range 190–1100 nm, in which the prominent band lies at about 261.5 nm of peak position, from which the bandgab (Eg) was calculated from its edge using Tauc’s plot, with Eg ~ 3.5 eV. The laser irradiation showed no significant changes in the absorption bands, despite a significant change observed in the amorphous behavior in the XRD pattern. The cell viability was performed for two samples of the BG and 0.6 mol% ZnO doped using 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay method. The result showed better cell viability and low toxicity. So, ZnO doped BG can be used in various biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of the methanolic extract (TE) of Plumeria obtusa L. (aerial parts) and its fractions were evaluated in vitro, and active fraction was evaluated in vivo. Among tested extracts, dichloromethane fraction (DCM-F) exhibited the strongest inhibition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) in RAW 264.7 macrophages. The effect of DCM-F on LPS-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice was studied. The animals were divided into five groups (n = 7) randomly; Gp I: negative control, GP II: positive control (LPS group), GP III: standard (dexamethasone, 2 mg/kg b.wt), GP IV and V: DCM-F (100 mg/kg), and DEM-F (200 mg/kg), respectively. DCM-F at a dose of 200 mg/kg suppressed the ability of LPS to increase the levels of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), NO, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6), as measured by ELISA. In addition, the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was reduced (determined by immunohistochemistry) and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased while that of catalase was restored to the normal values. Furthermore, the histopathological scores of inflammation induced by LPS were reduced. Twenty-two compounds were tentatively identified in DCM-F using LC/ESI-QToF with iridoids, phenolic derivatives and flavonoids as major constituents. Identified compounds were subjected to two different molecular docking processes against iNOS and prostaglandin E synthase-1 target receptors. Notably, protoplumericin A and 13-O-coumaroyl plumeride were the most promising members compared to the co-crystallized inhibitor in each case. These findings suggested that DCM-F attenuates the LPS-induced ALI in experimental animals through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: In this work, a comprehensive study concerning the physical properties of ternary alloys system (AlP1−xBix) at different concentrations is presented. The obtained results from our first-principle calculations are compared with previously reported studies in the literature and discussed in detail. Our computed results are found in a nice agreement where available with earlier reported results. Electronic band structures at the above-mentioned concentrations are also determined. Likewise, the impact of the varying temperature and pressure on Debye temperature, heat capacity, and entropy is analyzed as well. Furthermore, elastic constants and related elastic moduli results are also computed. Our results show that alloys are stable and found to be in brittle nature. This is the first quantitative study related to ternary alloys (AlP1−xBix) at mentioned concentrations. We soon expect the experimental confirmation of our predictions. Method: The calculations are performed, at concentrations x=0.0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0 by using the "full potential (FP) linearized (L) augmented plane wave plus local orbital (APW+lo) method framed within density functional theory (DFT)" as recognized in the "WIEN2k computational code". The "quasi-harmonic Debye model" approach is employed to determine the thermal properties of the title alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the major lethal primary liver malignant worldwide. Although, melatonin has various antitumor bioactivities; there is a requirement for more investigations to elucidate the not discussed effects, and the controversial responses of the treatment with melatonin on targets mediated in HCC. To achieve the aim of the present study, HCC-HepG2 cells were treated with different concentrations of melatonin at various time intervals. The selected minimal proliferation inhibition doses of melatonin were then incubated with cells to examine the arresting effect of melatonin on dividing cells using flow cytometry. Furthermore, the molecular patterns of genes that contributed to apoptosis, drug resistance development, antioxidation, and melatonin crossing were quantified by qRT-PCR. Additionally, the Human inflammation antibody array membrane (40 targets) was used to check the anti-inflammatory effect of melatonin. Our results validated that, melatonin shows anti-proliferative action through preserving cells in G0/G1 phase (P < 0.001) that is associated with a highly significant increase in the expression level of the P53 gene (P < 0.01). On contrary, as a novelty, our data recorded decreases in expression levels of genes involved in the pro-apoptotic pathway; with a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the expression level of an anti-apoptotic gene, Bcl2. Interestingly, we detected observed increases in the expression levels of genes responsible for conferring drug resistance including ABCB1, ABCC1, and ABCC5. Our study proved the anti-inflammatory activity of 1 mM melatonin in HCC-HepG2 cells. Accordingly, we can conclude that melatonin facilitates the anti-proliferation of cells at doses of 1 mM, and 2.5 mM after 24 h. This action is initiated through cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase via increasing the expression of P53, but independently on apoptosis. Collectively, melatonin is an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative promising therapy for the treatment of HCC. However, its consumption should be cautious to avoid the development of drug resistance and provide a better treatment strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Daclatasvir dihydrochloride has important roles not only in the management of COVID-19 pandemic symptoms but also in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection. Objective: The current research presents four novel and simple platforms including silver-nanoparticles spectrophotometric technique and three electrochemical conductometric ones for daclatasvir analysis in its tablet, biological fluids, and dissolution media. Methods: The spectrophotometric platform involved the synthesis of silvernanoparticles through a redox reaction between the reducing agent (daclatasvir) and the oxidizing agent (silver nitrate) in presence of polyvinylpyrrolidone as a stabilizing agent. The produced silver-nanoparticles have an intense surface plasmon resonance peak at 421 nm where the measured absorbance values were utilized for quantitative spectrophotometric determination of daclatasvir. While the electrochemical conductometric platforms involved the reaction of daclatasvir with three different precipitating reagents (silver nitrate, phosphomolybdic acid, and ammonium reineckate) to form ion associates between these reagents and daclatasvir in the aqueous system. Results: All proposed platforms were validated in line with recommendations of the international conference on harmonization producing satisfactory outcomes within the agreed boundaries. Conclusion: The proposed platforms are green alternatives for routine rapid assay of daclatasvir at the cheapest cost because their results were observed to be nearly similar to those of the reported platform. Moreover, the suggested spectrophotometric platform's sensitivity can be employed for investigating daclatasvir bioequivalence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of polymer nanocomposites in different electrical applications stimulated the study of the dielectric properties for PVC-fGO films at different temperatures. The high values of εʹ of the different nanocomposites, at low frequencies, are due to the space charge effect induced by electrode polarization. The values of maximum barrier height (WM) decrease by increasing the applied temperature whereas they are independent of the content of fGo in the different nanocomposites. The values of real dielectric modulus (Mʹ) decreased by increasing fGO content (except for 0.5 wt% of fGO nanofiller). A shift in the position Mʺ peak to higher frequencies by increasing the temperature was observed. The values of σAC increase by increasing the fGO content up to 0.3 wt% while decreasing at 0.5 and 1.0 wt% of fGO. Increasing the fGO content in the nanocomposites causes the values of DC activation energy (EDC) to increase up to 0.3 wt% of fGO then they decreased, due to the space charge effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technological development cannot take place without a deep knowledge of materials and their physical properties. Complex oxides constitute a family of materials characterized by specific characteristics prompting them for potential technological applications. The results of a theoretical study related to the structural, thermodynamic, electronic, optical, and magnetic properties of the Dy2Be2GeO7 complex oxide are presented. The current study is accomplished using the "Full Potential (FP) Linearized (L) Augmented Plane Wave Plus Local Orbitals (APW + lo)" formalism as incorporated in the WIEN2k computational code in the "density functional theory" framework. To approximate the exchange and correlation effects, the PBE-GGA formalism of the "generalized gradient approximation" is used. Furthermore, "Tran-Blaha modified Becke–Johnson potential" is used to better describe the electronic structure. The equilibrium structural parameters are in good agreement with the corresponding measured data reported in the literature. The thermodynamic properties of the title compounds are explored via the quasi-harmonic approximation over temperature and pressure ranges from 0 to 700 K and 0 to 10 GPa, respectively. The electronic properties are determined with spin-polarized inclusions. Finally, the optical properties are examined with a detailed discussion of different optical parameters, including dielectric function, absorption coefficient, optical conductivity, reflectivity, and refractive index spectra. The Dy2Be2GeO7 complex oxide with a non-centrosymmetric tetragonal structure shows a negative birefringent, therefore it is a possible candidate for applying to the birefringent field and nonlinear optical process. To our best knowledge, the current study is the first effort to explore the physical characteristics of the considered complex oxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]