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In the current study, bioethanol has been purified and separated from the culture broth using in situ modified bacterial cellulose (BC) membrane with AMPS. To our knowledge, this is the first report for development of BC composite membrane for bioethanol separation from production media. The characterization of the prepared membrane was investigated for morphology and functional groups via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy, in addition to the determination of their water and ethanol uptake. The obtained data proved the formation of cellulose multilayers in addition to the existence of its specific function groups. The Amicon cell pervaporation system containing the prepared BC/AMPS membrane has been used for the separation of the bioethanol from the culture broth using nitrogen gas pressure, and the results revealed that the BC/AMPS composite membrane is more efficient than the neat BC membrane in the separation process of bioethanol. At 50-psi nitrogen pressure, the best separation factor and flux were recorded as 15.43 and 98.94 g/m2.h, respectively, which were accompanied by the elevation of the bioethanol concentration from 1.98 to 3.22 mg/ml before and after separation, respectively. These findings revealed the promising application of BC/AMPS membrane in the field of bioenergy especially the bioethanol separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial cellulose (BC) has garnered attention among biomaterial scientists for its unique physicochemical features and biocompatibility; however, the lack of bioactivity has limited its biomedical applications. Thus, this study describes the in situ preparation of BC/hydroxyapatite (HA) nanocomposite membranes using static and agitated fermentation to enhance the bioactivity of BC. The incorporation of HA increased BC production from 2.31 g/L without HA to 4.10 and 3.26 g/L under static and agitated fermentation, respectively, although the SEM observation indicates the formation of a fibrous structure in BC mesh under both fermentations. It was also observed that the content of HA nanoparticles in BC obtained from agitated fermentation was higher than that obtained from static fermentation. In addition, the average fiber diameter was increased from 56 ± 17 nm for agitated nanocomposites (BC/HA-A) to 145 ± 48 nm for static BC/HA nanocomposites (BC/HA-S) and 122 ± 26 nm for BC. In conclusion, the in situ formation of BC/HA nanocomposite under agitated fermentation appears more convenient in term of BC yield, HA content and distribution, and cytotoxicity against fibroblast cells (BJ1). This strategy will inspire new ways to prepare BC-based materials for medical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In arid climates, conventional water resources are severely limited and stressed in the face of rapid population growth and future climate change. So, it is necessary to find alternative non-conventional water resources for use in drought situations. Additionally, the non-conventional water resources in these areas are not sufficient to meet future water demand. Therefore, non-conventional water resources can be adopted as a strategic reserve to bridge the gap between water supply and demand in case of emergency and drought events. These resources might include rainwater harvesting, treated wastewater, and desalinated seawater. Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) can be applied to store these resources in the hydrogeological system using Geo information System—Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (GIS-MCDA) approach for determining the suitable MAR location for storage. North-west Kingdom of Saudi Arabia area was chosen for this study because it is extremely arid, has high potential for social and economic development, and it has newly constructed non-conventional water infrastructures distributed throughout the area including water desalination plants, Tertiary Sewage Effluent (TSE) waste water plants, and flash-flood storage dams. To identify the suitable MAR site location and structure, different data related to aquifer hydrogeology, surface hydrology, hydrometeorology, and water quality were applied. Then, GIS-MCDA holistic approach was applied with aid of ordered weighting average (OWA) technique. Finally, two maps were created to show the MAR location and structure type. Potential map indicates that ~ 18.85% of the area is suitable for MAR installations. About 0.17% of the total area exhibited very high potential, where infiltration ponds can be applied, 1.86% had high potential for construction of check dams with diversion channels, and 16.82% had moderate potential for installation of recharge wells. Additionally, 56 MAR structures were proposed and a map showing their locations has been created. Thus, results indicated that the study area is promising for MAR installation. These maps could aid the decision makers to propose a sustainable development plan for the future water resources of the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work was designed to evaluate the advantages of using multi-strain probiotics feed (Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis and Clostridium butyricum) (PRO) and alpha-monolaurin (AML) on laying performance, criteria of egg quality, blood parameters, and yolk fatty acids' profile in laying hens. One hundred forty of Bovans brown laying hens at 45 weeks old (25th week of egg production) were randomly allocated into four groups, with seven replicates of five birds each in a complete randomized design. The first group was fed a basal diet without feed additives (0 g/kg diet), and the second, third, and fourth groups received diets containing 1 g PRO, 1 g AML, and 1 g PRO + 1 g AML/kg diet, respectively. No significant impacts of PRO, AML, or their mixture on body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), or egg weight. Egg production, egg mass, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were enhanced by 1 g PRO/kg and /or 1 g AML/kg supplementation in laying hen diets. Furthermore, egg shape index, eggshell thickness, and yolk color were statistically higher by PRO and AML supplementation at 55 weeks. However, oviduct, infundibulum, and uterus weights were significantly decreased by 1 g PRO or/and 1 g AML. Additionally, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein (LDL), glucose, and glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) levels were decreased by PRO and AML supplementation. In conclusion, it seems that dietary inclusion with 1 g PRO/kg, 1 g of AML/kg, and 1 g PRO + 1 g AML improved egg production, egg mass, FCR, and yolk fatty acids profile and lowered total cholesterol and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in laying hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) mediated fruit peel extract is gaining importance due to its cost-effectiveness and ecofriendly nature. Herein, ZnO-NPs were synthesized using pomegranate peel extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized ZnO-NPs were characterized using SEM, TEM-SAID, FT-IR, XRD, and particle size analysis. According to the findings, the ZnO-NPs were agglomerated into spherical and hexagonal shapes with an average diameter of 20 to 40 nm and crystallinity formed. The antimicrobial activity of ZnO-NPs against pathogenic microbes was significant in multiple applications, with 62.5 and 31.25 μg/ml of MIC for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, respectively, and 125 and 250 μg/ml of MIC for Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus, respectively. In addition, ZnO-NPs showed antioxidant activity with IC50 = 240 and 250 μg/ml by DPPH and ABTS, respectively. All concentrations of ZnO-NPs significantly improved the germination of barley seed and shoot height, with the optimum concentration reaching 2 and 12 ppm of ZnO-NPs for both seed germination (90%) and shoot height (6.5), respectively, while the greatest root extension (6 cm) was observed at 2 ppm of ZnO-NPs. The mitotic index increased at lower nanoparticle concentrations and exposure times but declined considerably as the nanoparticle dose and exposure duration increased, until most concentrations reached 100% suppression after 12 h with various chromosomal abnormalities. The researchers were able to create efficient, eco-friendly, and simple multifunctional ZnO-NPs using a green synthetic strategy and, in the process, obtain a better understanding of the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of ZnO-NPs in plant cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology emerged as a critical force in agriculture and the most vital technology. Nanobiotechnology offers significant benefits for farmers to control their output by regulating nutrient use via nano-fertilizers, rationalizing agrochemical use, detecting, and treating disease–host interactions, molecular interactions with nanocarriers (nano biosensors) for plant disease diagnosis, and removing contaminants from water and soil, farm management, and current trends include salinity soil treatment. Nanosensors can also detect pathogens, moisture, fertilizers, and acidity of soil to improve products used to protect the plant, reduce nutrient leakage, and increase yield production due to effective management of nutrients. This section will look at bio-nanosensors based on soil sensors and nano-sensors that can be conjugated with nematode biomarkers to deliver the easy and quick detection of nematode plant diseases. They are also integrating biomarker with nanosensor to improve the vision and application of biosensor technology. According to the Docking test, Selectivity and specificity of the protein (MiPFN3) found specifically in root–knot nematodes and is not present in plants or other organisms. Therefore, inhibiting this protein would be a highly specific and targeted approach for controlling these nematodes, minimizing potential harm to non-target organisms. by generating a random pool of sequences using the shuffle-seq tool. In-silico Aptamer that can interact and inhibit MiPFN3 was designed. Schematic representation to illustrate Plant parasitic nematode diagnostics with nano biosensors as a novel extremely sensitive tool in sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advancements in the manufacturing and commercialisation of miniaturised sensors and low-cost wearables have enabled an effortless monitoring of lifestyle by detecting and analysing physiological signals. Heart rate variability (HRV) denotes the time interval between consecutive heartbeats.The HRV signal, as detected by the sensors and devices, has been popularly used as an indicative measure to estimate the level of stress, depression, and anxiety. For years, artificial intelligence (AI)-based learning systems have been known for their predictive capabilities, and in recent years, AI models with deep learning (DL) architectures have been successfully applied to achieve unprecedented accuracy. In order to determine effective methodologies applied to the collection, processing, and prediction of stress from HRV data, this work presents an in depth analysis of 43 studies reporting the application of various AI algorithms. The methods are summarised in tables and thoroughly evaluated to ensure the completeness of their findings and reported results. To make the work comprehensive, a detailed review has been conducted on sensing technologies, pre-processing methods applied on multi-modal data, and employed prediction models. This is followed by a critical examination of how various Machine Learning (ML) models, have been utilised in predicting stress from HRV data. In addition, the reported reseults from the selected studies have been carefully analysed to identify features that enable the models to perform better. Finally, the challenges of using HRV to predict stress are listed, along with some possible mitigation strategies. This work aims to highlight the impact of AI-based stress prediction methodologies from HRV data, and is expected to aid the development of more meticulous techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improvements in drinking water quality (DWQ) can lead, according to some estimates, to a 10% reduction of the world's disease load. The drinking water distribution system (DWDS) plays a crucial role in influencing DWQ and can contribute to the emergence of poultry-related epidemics. This study aims to monitor the variations in DWQ throughout the seasons within the DWDS of Egyptian poultry farms experiencing epidemics. The study assessed DWQ at four different points along the DWDS, including the water source (WS), water tank (WT), broiler drinker (BD), and layer drinker (LD), across 86 farms. Statistical analysis was employed to establish correlations between DWQ and the sampling points within the DWDS, as well as between water temperature (Tw.C°), ambient temperature (Ta.C°), and microbial DWQ. The survey revealed significant differences between Tw.C° and Ta.C°, with notable effect sizes (d = 0.89–1). Additionally, the results revealed significant differences in physicochemical DWQ between WS and house drinkers (HD), with medium to large effect sizes (d = 0.56–0.85). Furthermore, significant differences were identified in microbial DWQ between winter and summer, with a small to large effect size (d = 0.40–0.87). Notably, we recorded significant differences in microbial DWQ between WS and WT, with a small to medium effect size (d = 0.40–0.61), and between WT and BD, with a small to medium effect size (d = 0.48–0.53). Additionally, we found significant differences in microbial DWQ between WS and LD, with a medium effect size (d = 0.59–0.68). In conclusion, Tw.C° is influenced by seasonal variations in Ta.C°. While the physicochemical DWQ was unaffected by seasonal temperature variations, it was significantly impacted by the DWDS from WS to HD. In contrast, the microbial DWQ was strongly influenced by both seasonal temperature changes and DWDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effects of adding Nano-Selenium (NSe) and Nano-clay (NC) as feed supplements on European Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Two separate experiments were conducted, one with NC and the other with NSe. Each experiment consisted of four sub-groups with varying concentrations of NC or NSe. The expression levels of five immune-related genes (TNF-α, TNF-β, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-12) were measured using Real-time Quantitative PCR (Rt-PCR) Assay. The results showed an increase in the expression of interleukins (IL-2, IL-6 and IL-12) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and TNF-β) after exposure to NC and NSe.TNF-α gene expression was significantly higher with both 1 mg and 10 mg concentrations of NC and NSe. TNF-β gene expression was highest with the 5 mg concentration of NC. The concentrations of 1 mg and 10 mg for NC, and 1 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg for NSe, led to the highest (p < 0.05) levels of IL-2 expression compared to the control. Similar trends were observed for IL-6 and IL-12 gene expression. Understanding the impact of these concentrations on gene expression, growth rate, biochemical indices, and antioxidant status can provide valuable insights into the potential applications of NC and NSe supplements on European Sea Bass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sandstone of Abu Madi clastic reservoir constitutes the prime gas-producing reservoir in the Nile Delta region. So, the present research aims to delineate its microfacies and dominant diagenetic features and their effect on the petrophysical characteristics of the Abu Madi reservoir in the Faraskur Gas Field. This could be achieved by integrating the petrographical studies and the conventional data to divide the reservoir into some reservoir rock types (RRTs) to delineate the impact of the mineral composition and diagenetic features on their reservoir quality and hydraulic flow zones. Petrographically, most samples are immature and described as angular to subrounded, poorly sorted, and slightly cemented. Five clastic microfacies types are recorded in the Abu Madi Formation: (1) quartz arenite, (2) feldspathic quartz arenite, (3) sub-feldspathic quartz arenite, (4) quartz wacke, and (5) sub-feldspathic quartz wacke. The most important post-depositional processes affecting the reservoir quality are the precipitation of pyrite and microsparite, as well as the feldspars alteration into authigenic dispersed clays represented by kaolinite and smectite/illite mixed layers. The dominant pore types are the primary intergranular, with some subsidiary fractures and dissolution pores. To check the reservoir quality of the Abu Madi clastics, the NPI (normalized porosity index), FZI (flow zone indicator), RQI (reservoir quality index), and λk (permeability anisotropy) were estimated. Petrophysically, the studied samples are summed up into four RRTs, with the RRT4 group has the lowest ∅ and k values (av. ∅ = 16.2%, av. kH = 6.87 md) and the lowest reservoir quality parameters (av. FZI = 0.89 μm, av. DRT = 10.4, av. RQI = 0.18 μm, av. R35 = 1.26 μm). On the contrary, the RRT1 group has the best petrophysical and reservoir parameters (av. ∅ = 25.9%, av. kH = 2695 md, av. DRT = 14.9, av. RQI = 3.12 μm, av. FZI = 8.85 μm, av. R35 = 32.7 μm). The permeability anisotropy of the RRT2 and RRT3 is the highest in Faraskur Field (av. λk = 2.4 and 2.62, respectively). This study is applicable to other extensions of the Abu Madi reservoirs in the Nile Delta basin to help in predicting their reservoir quality, petrophysical properties, and their hydrocarbon potentiality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two feed restriction (FR) regimens are utilized with weaned rabbits including a quantitative FR (amount-limited feed or time-restricted admission to feed) and a qualitative FR (modulation of diet content especially protein and energy). The use of post-weaning FR may help in preventing post-weaning digestive disorders, stimulating compensating growth, improving feed efficiency, and decreasing carcass fat content. Interestingly, FR may contribute to changing meat’s chemical composition and its physical quality attributes by regulating the morphological and biochemical characteristics of muscle fibers. Also, FR could enhance the gastrointestinal tract development, its histomorphology, and improve feed digestibility and absorption. Furthermore, FR regimens are involved in establishing gut microbial balance and enhancing the host immunological response. It might be concluded that post-weaning FR is involved in influencing the physiological and immunological aspects of growing rabbits. It might be documented that light to mild FR (i.e., 80–90% AL), early (i.e., at the first 2 weeks post-weaning), and relatively short in duration (i.e., for 2–3 weeks) had no negative effects on live body weight, while severing FR reduced live body weight in comparison with ad libitum rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface engineering of energetic materials can secure novel decomposition characteristics. Nature can inspire novel solutions. Polydopamine, with strong adhesion power of mussel proteins, can open new venues for the facile development of functionalized energetic materials. HMX, one of the most powerful energetic materials in use, was surface modified with PDA. The reactive amine groups of PDA surfactant were employed for noble metal catalyst deposition. Silver nanocatalyst was deposited on HMX surface. Uniform deposition of silver nanocatalyst was assessed using EDAX detector. Decomposition kinetics was investigated via isoconversional (model free) and model fitting. Kissinger, Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), integral isoconversional method of Ozawa, Flynn, and Wall (FWO), and differential isoconversional method of Friedman. Silver nanocatalyst offered an increase in HMX decomposition enthalpy by 32.4%. In the meantime, HMX activation energy was decreased from 350 ± 2.53 to 284.9 ± 1.5 kJ mol−1 by Friedman method. Silver nanocatalyst could combust exothermically; it could induce condensed phase reactions that could boost HMX decomposition. Silver nanocatalyst experienced change in HMX decomposition model from diffusion reaction (D1) to (A3) known as three-dimensional random nucleation and growth. Surface modification with PDA secured enhanced HMX sensitivity to falling mass impact by 40%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aggregate udder shape (Bowl, Round, Cup), udder measurements (udder width, UW, udder front depth, UFD, udder rear depth, URD, udder levelness, ULV, udder heights, UH) and teat measurements (teat diameters, TD, front teat length, FTL, rear teat length, RTL, distance between front teats, DFT and distance between rear teats, DRT) were measured on 1300 Friesian cows located in a commercial farm under subtropical conditions (Egypt) to appraise udder and teats status and to evaluate the possible relationships with some milk production characteristics in conjunction with udder shape, age at first calving, sire and inbreeding effects on udder morphological traits and milk production ability. For such an available sample size, parity had affected (P < 0.01) UFD, TD, FTL and RTL. In addition, udder shape affected (P < 0.01) UW, UFD, URD, ULV and DFT. None of the other studied factors affected milk production traits. The bowl udder shape (P < 0.01) yielded a high total milk yield (3267.19 kg), adjusted milk yield (2443.01 kg) and lactation length (480.70 d) compared to other udder shapes. The genetic correlations of UW with total milk yield and persistency were strongly positive (0.86 and 0.93, respectively). However, strong negative genetic correlations were found between UW with peak milk yield and lactation length (− 0.92 and − 0.80, respectively), between RTL with peak milk yield (− 0.92) and DRT with persistency (− 0.79). As found from the stepwise multiple regression, UW and URD can be used as good indicators for predicting milk yield and lactation length. Additionally, this study spotlights the genetic background of udder characteristics based on reliable studies and the QTL database for cattle as a first step toward applying this knowledge side by side with phenotypic traits to improve the productivity of the Holstein breed under subtropical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulosic wastes represent a great environmental challenge, with potential conversion to product-added value through microbial fermentation. Currently, bacterial cellulose (BC) is considered a promising natural polymer for multiple applications. However, the high production cost challenges its wide application. Hence, the current study evaluated the applicability of paper sludge as a cost-effective medium for both cellulases and BC production. The local isolate Streptomyces rochei revealed the highest cellulase production titer (about 3 U/mL) at optimized conditions. For BC production, batch and fed-batch fermentation strategies were evaluated using enzymatically hydrolyzed paper sludge. The results asserted the advantage of fed-batch fermentation for advanced BC production (3.10 g/L) over batch fermentation (1.06 g/L) under the same cultivation conditions. The developed BC membranes were characterized through different instrumental analyses, which revealed an increase in fiber diameters and crystallinity under fed-batch fermentation. Furthermore, BC/magnetite (BC/Fe3O4) nanocomposite was developed by an in-situ approach. The newly developed composite was evaluated for dye removal applications, using methyl orange (MO) as a model. The dye removal conditions were optimized through Box Behnken design (BBD), which indicated maximal MO removal (83.5%) at pH 3.0 and BC/Fe3O4 concentration of 0.1 mg/dL after 60 min. Therefore, the current study asserts the good applicability of enzymatically hydrolyzed paper sludge as a medium for cost-effective BC production and the high capacity of BC/magnetite nanocomposite for MO decolorization. The study paves the way for the cost-effective implementation of BC/magnetite nanocomposite for dye removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a simple strategy for diagnosing disease, which is called improved gray wolf optimization (IGWO) and ensemble classification. The proposed strategy consists of two sequential phases, which are; (i) Feature Selection Phase (FSP) and (ii) Ensemble Classification Phase (ECP). During the former, the most effective features for diagnosing disease are selected, while during the latter, the actual diagnosis takes place depending on voting of five different classifiers. The main contribution of this paper is a suggested modification for the traditional Gray Wolf Optimization (GWO), which is called Improved Gray Wolf Optimization (IGWO). As an optimization technique, the proposed IGWO is employed in the FSP for selecting the effective features. For evaluating, IGWO has been implemented using recent feature selection techniques as well as the proposed method. To accomplish the classification phase; ensemble classification has been used which uses several classification techniques such as; Naïve Bayes (NB), Support Vector Machines (SVM), Deep Neural Network (DNN), Decision Tree (DT), and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN). Ensemble classification integrate several classifiers for improving prediction performance. Experimental results have shown that employing IGWO promotes the performance of the diagnosing strategy of different diseases in terms of precision, recall, and accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold mineralization in the El-Barramiya region of the Eastern Desert, Egypt, is connected to the post-accretionary stage throughout the Central Eastern Desert. It is represented by quartz, quartz-carbonate veins and disseminations in listvenite rocks. The thrust contact between rock units in El-Barramiya area played an imperative part in gold mineralization where the obduction of ophiolitic rocks over the metasediments and metavolcanics caused shear zones. Mineralization in the study area formed along shear zones and the gold mineralization prefers to precipitate along the transition zone between low-grade regional metamorphic area which is represented by metasediments and high grade which is represented by actinolite schist. The gold mineralization lode of El-Barramiya gold mine area is situated in E–W trending quartz and quartz-carbonate veins along a shear zone located in the intersections between faults trend in NE–SW (Najd fault), NW–SE and thrust faults trend in NEE–SWW in metavolcanic and metasedimentary host rocks. Porphyry granite in the mine area played an important role in hydrothermal alteration process where it represents the source of K, listvenite formed when fluids rich in CO2 and bearing-K permeate and alter the previously altered ultramafic rocks, usually serpentinites of the ophiolitic mélange rocks. The listvenitization process includes silicification and carbonatization metasomatic processes, tectonized serpentinites are altered to listvenite as the carbonatization becomes more intense close to dipping transpressive faults. Geochemical studies of listvenite and mineralized veins helped to determine the ultramafic genesis of listvenite and gold transformed as gold bisulfide. The whole rock geochemical data from El-Barramiya and elsewhere indicate that the transformation of serpentinite into listvenite involves profound metasomatic modification of the bulk-rock geochemistry. The chemical changes during alteration of serpentinite to listvenite are dominated by the addition of CO2, the removal of H2O, and the redistribution of SiO2, MgO and CaO as carbonate minerals and silica replace serpentine. All listvenites at El-Barramiya lode gold deposit are enriched in CaO, Fe2O3 and K2O, but depleted in MgO compared with associated serpentinite that is presumed to represent their protoliths. The chemical changes during alteration of serpentinite to listvenite are dominated by the addition of CO2, the removal of H2O, and the redistribution of SiO2, MgO and CaO as carbonate minerals and silica replace serpentine. Alteration also caused redistribution of trace elements, with some being locally remobilized within the rock, some being added from a fluid phase, and others being leached out of the rock. Petrographic investigation and geochemical studies show different types of alterations (carbonatization and silicification) and mineralization. Mineralizations are represented by gold and sulfides (pyrite, arsenopyrite and smaller quantities of chalcopyrite, sphalerite, galena, tetrahedrite and gersdorffite) found in auriferous quartz veins and disseminated in listvenite. The area exposed to brittle–ductile deformation in addition to different types of structures such as faults and fractures controlling on the formation of mineralization and act as hydrothermal channels ways for fluid flow. Fluid inclusions studies revealed that gold mineralization was formed from heterogeneous trapping of H2O–CO2 fluids at a temperature of 280–340 °C and pressure within the range of 1.5–1.9 kbar, which is consistent with the mesothermal conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daily large quantities of kitchen wastes rich in starchy components are discarded into the environment. The current study documents the use of starchy kitchen wastes (SKW) as a low-cost effective substrate for bacterial cellulose (BC) production and loaded with carbonaceous compounds to remove cationic dyes from wastewater. Box-Behnken design (BBD) was applied to optimize the maximum production of reducing sugars by enzymatic hydrolysis of SKW and the hydrolysate at different concentrations used as precursors for BC biosynthesis using Komagataeibacter hansenii AS.5. SEM, FT-IR, and mechanical properties were performed for BC membranes characterization. The synthesized BC membranes were loaded with either charcoal or graphite and evaluated for removal of methylene blue (MB) as a representative cationic dye. The BBD showed that 148.0 g/l of reducing sugars (54.8% saccharification) can be produced using 24.3% of SKW (84.3 g/l/dry) treated with 2-ml amylase (313 U/ml) at 50 °C for 5 h and 40 min. The optimum concentrations of SKW hydrolysate produced 2.11 g/l of BC membranes (0.3 g/l/day). The original and loaded membranes showed absorption capacities of 53, 98.7, and 100% removal of MB using BC, graphite-BC, and charcoal-BC membranes, respectively. Therefore, SKW can be used as alternative medium for BC production and applied successfully for dye removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because surface oxygen has the extraordinary capacity to act as an electron donor to explosive compounds that lack electrons; cobalt oxide may have potential catalytic properties. Using hydrothermal processing, highly crystalline, dispersed cobalt oxide nanoparticles (NPs) of 23.5 nm were created. HMX (1, 3, 5, 7-tetranitro-1, 3, 5, 7-tetrazocane) energetic matrix was re-precipitated with anti-solvent assistance while cobalt oxide NPs were present, re-dispersed in organic solvent, and integrated. With a 53% increase in HMX decomposition enthalpy measured by DSC, cobalt oxide NPs showed higher catalytic activity. Cobalt oxide nanoparticles exhibited a 1550 J/g compared to HMX 1016 J/g. Using the Kissinger and KAS models, cobalt oxide NPs showed a 41% and 37% decrease in HMX apparent activation energy, respectively. Colloidal cobalt oxide NPs could be easily made and integrated into HMX, withstanding high interfacial surface area and superior catalytic performance. The study suggests a potential strategy for creating new, and more effective catalysts for the thermal degradation of HMX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Covid-19 is a very dangerous disease as a result of the rapid and unprecedented spread of any previous disease. It is truly a crisis that threatens the world since its first appearance in December 2019 until our time. Due to the lack of a vaccine that has proved sufficiently effective so far, the rapid and more accurate diagnosis of this disease is extremely necessary to enable the medical staff to identify infected cases and isolate them from the rest to prevent further loss of life. In this paper, Covid-19 diagnostic strategy (CDS) as a new classification strategy that consists of two basic phases: Feature selection phase (FSP) and diagnosis phase (DP) has been introduced. During the first phase called FSP, the best set of features in laboratory test findings for Covid-19 patients will be selected using enhanced gray wolf optimization (EGWO). EGWO combines both types of selection techniques called wrapper and filter. Accordingly, EGWO includes two stages called filter stage (FS) and wrapper stage (WS). While FS uses many different filter methods, WS uses a wrapper method called binary gray wolf optimization (BGWO). The second phase called DP aims to give fast and more accurate diagnosis using a hybrid diagnosis methodology (HDM) based on the selected features from FSP. In fact, the HDM consists of two phases called weighting patient phase (WP2) and diagnostic patient phase (DP2). WP2 aims to calculate the belonging degree of each patient in the testing dataset to class category using naïve Bayes (NB) as a weight method. On the other hand, K-nearest neighbor (KNN) will be used in DP2 based on the weights of patients in the testing dataset as a new training dataset to give rapid and more accurate detection. The suggested CDS outperforms other strategies according to accuracy, precision, recall (or sensitivity) and F-measure calculations that are equal to 99%, 88%, 90% and 91%, respectively, as showed in experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A detailed geological-depositional model and a clear understanding of the depositional elements of reservoirs decrease the drilling risks in the development of oil and gas fields. Building an effective geological model is a challenge in West El-Burullus (WEB) area because of its complicated reservoir, which consists of turbidite incised canyons system of Pliocene shales intercalated with sands. These canyons have occurred due to turbidity currents associated with the basin slope forming Kafr El-Sheikh Formation. Deducting the geological-depositional model and basins architecture is carried out utilizing the integration of seismic geomorphology, seismic facies analysis, sequence stratigraphy, and petrophysical analysis. The available datasets comprise a 3D seismic cube and logs of the WEB-1 well. Analyses of these data revealed various lithological facies relations and their paleo-depositional environments. This study demonstrated that Kafr El-Sheik Formation comprises a third-order sequence of turbidite units in-filling a canyon named WEB canyon with five sedimentary facies components: basal lobe through the incised old canyon, amalgamated channels fill, followed by splays, lobes, levees either proximal or distal facies, then the last plugged channels. Time–frequency spectral decomposition of time slices at the base and the top of the WEB canyon assisted the description of the litho-morphological and facies distribution of the concealed Kafr El-Sheikh Formation turbidity incisions and recognized reservoir trending and the canyon fairway. The turbidity facies with high reservoir quality was found in the overbank sedimentary distribution channels such as proximal levees and splays that reflected good to excellent petrophysical reservoir characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study integrates multidisciplinary geological and petrophysical approaches to characterize and evaluate the potential of the pre-Cenomanian Nubian sandstone reservoirs in the Ramadan oil field, the central offshore part of the Gulf of Suez, Egypt. The different petrophysical parameters of the Nubian sandstone reservoirs (shale volume, porosity, water saturation as well as gross and net-pay thicknesses) were mapped, and 3D slicing models for the hydrocarbon phases saturation were constructed to understand the reservoir heterogeneity and the distribution of the best reservoir facies. The petrophysical results of the pre-Cenomanian Nubian succession highlight very good reservoir intervals in the Nubian C sandstones containing thick pay zones (> 120 m). On the other side, the Nubian A and B reservoir rocks are less prospective with pay zone horizons (< 10 m). Integrated reservoir models and wireline log analysis elucidate that clay volume is the most detrimental factor to the reservoir quality as the pay zone thickness and hydrocarbon saturation often increase where the clay volume decreases. Therefore, the presence of scattered pay zone intervals in Nubian A and B is mainly related to their elevated clay content which acts as barriers for fluids flowing within the reservoir facies. The Nubian C succession contains three different reservoir rock types (RRT) with variable compositional and petrophysical properties. RRTI and RRTII sandstones comprise quartzose sandstones with very low clay content (< 10%) and are characterized by an open pore system dominated by macropores. These sandstones are less impacted by overburden pressure and therefore can preserve their depositional porosity and permeability. On the other hand, RRTIII reservoir rocks are clay rich (> 10%) with abundant mesopores that are more prone to compressibility and hence reduction of the pore volume and pore throat. The present study highlights the significance of comprehensive integration between wireline logs, cores, and 3D reservoir models in directing exploration endeavors toward prospective reservoirs in mature basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zhen 11 block is located in the deep sag of Gaoyou Sag, North Jiangsu basin, China. It is the main oil-bearing block in the Zhenwu oilfield, which contains multiple types of faults with complex tectonic structures. The Sanduo formation is the target horizon of the study area that has been divided into two members. The purpose of the current study is to evaluate the sedimentology and diagenetic impact on reservoir characteristics. To fulfill the main objective of the study, the core data analysis, thin-section analysis, SEM, CL, and MICP techniques have been used to evaluate the sedimentary facies, reservoir characteristics, and diagenesis of E2s1 in the Zhen 11 block. The reservoir rock of E2s1 in the Zhen 11 block is mainly lithic arkoses and feldspathic litharenite. The grain sorting and rounding are poor, with low composition and structural maturity, reflecting the characteristics of near provenance. The formation comprises primary pores, secondary pores, and microfractures. The porosity and permeability range from 10 to 31% and 0.4 × 10−3μm2 to 8000 × 10−3μm2, respectively. The diagenesis includes compaction, cementation, alteration of clay minerals, and feldspar dissolution. The dissolution of feldspar developed in the early and late burial stages. The mechanical compaction increases by increasing burial depth, due to that mechanism the reservoir characteristics have been reduced. The dissolution of feldspar and the fracturing mechanism is common that enhance the reservoir quality. Carbonate cement and clay contents block pores and pore throats and significantly reduces reservoir quality. E2s1 sandstone is commonly deposited in the braided river and meandering stream depositional environment. It consists of an abundance of quartz and feldspar grains with minor calcite cement. Grains are mostly sub-angular to angular, sub-rounded, and moderate sorting, with primary intergranular porosity that increases the reservoir quality. The meandering channel sandstone is comprised of coarse gravel, sandstone, and siltstone from bottom to top with fair reservoir characteristics. Overall the studied formation consists of moderate to good porosity and permeability that is why it can be acting as a good reservoir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An optimization algorithm is a step-by-step procedure which aims to achieve an optimum value (maximum or minimum) of an objective function. Several natural inspired meta-heuristic algorithms have been inspired to solve complex optimization problems by utilizing the potential advantages of swarm intelligence. In this paper, a new nature-inspired optimization algorithm which mimics the social hunting behavior of Red Piranha is developed, which is called Red Piranha Optimization (RPO). Although the piranha fish is famous for its extreme ferocity and thirst for blood, it sets the best examples of cooperation and organized teamwork, especially in the case of hunting or saving their eggs. The proposed RPO is established through three sequential phases, namely; (i) searching for a prey, (ii) encircling the prey, and (iii) attacking the prey. A mathematical model is provided for each phase of the proposed algorithm. RPO has salient properties such as; (i) it is very simple and easy to implement, (ii) it has a perfect ability to bypass local optima, and (iii) it can be employed for solving complex optimization problems covering different disciplines. To ensure the efficiency of the proposed RPO, it has been applied in feature selection, which is one of the important steps in solving the classification problem. Hence, recent bio-inspired optimization algorithms as well as the proposed RPO have been employed for selecting the most important features for diagnosing Covid-19. Experimental results have proven the effectiveness of the proposed RPO as it outperforms the recent bio-inspired optimization techniques according to accuracy, execution time, micro average precision, micro average recall, macro average precision, macro average recall, and f-measure calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shale-rich reservoirs present a long-standing challenge for reservoir geologists because the clay minerals often induce a large-scale heterogeneity in the reservoir pore system. This work aims to understand the impact of clay distribution and mineralogy which would enhance the predictability of the best reservoir facies. We integrate seismic, well-log datasets to investigate the petrophysical characteristics of the clay-rich Cenomanian Clastics in the GPY oil field, north Western Desert of Egypt. These Clastics comprise the sandstone intervals which are the most prolific hydrocarbon reservoirs. Seismic data were used to interpret the main structural patterns as well as the different seismic facies. The well log data were utilized to interpret the lithologic variations and the type of clays in the reservoir as well as the different petrophysical parameters. Based on variations in their lithological and petrophysical characteristics, the Bahariya sandstones were sub-divided into three different rock units: Bahariya-3 (B-3), Bahariya-2 (B-2), and Bahariya-1 (B-1), separated by thick laminated clay intervals. AR/G Member is dominated by clays with relatively lower reservoir quality. Spectral gamma ray log values reveal that smectite is the dominant clay mineral in all the studied intervals. Laminated clays are dominant in B-1 and B-2 units, whereas, B-3 unit and Abu Roash G Member are enriched in structural clays. The quartzose sand content decreases from B-3 to AR/G and clay content increases from B-3 to AR/G. Therefore, the best reservoir facies and fluid flow conduits with best pore system characteristics are hosted in B-3 and the smectite clay streaks act as a good seal for hydrocarbons in the quartzose sandstone pay zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bee propolis is one of the most common natural extracts and has gained significant interest in biomedicine due to its high content of phenolic acids and flavonoids, which are responsible for the antioxidant activity of natural products. The present study report that the propolis extract (PE) was produced by ethanol in the surrounding environment. The obtained PE was added at different concentrations to cellulose nanofiber (CNF)/poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and subjected to freezing thawing and freeze drying methods to develop porous bioactive matrices. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations displayed that the prepared samples had an interconnected porous structure with pore sizes in the range of 10–100 μm. The high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) results of PE showed around 18 polyphenol compounds, with the highest amounts of hesperetin (183.7 µg/mL), chlorogenic acid (96.9 µg/mL) and caffeic acid (90.2 µg/mL). The antibacterial activity results indicated that both PE and PE-functionalized hydrogels exhibited a potential antimicrobial effects against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans. The in vitro test cell culture experiments indicated that the cells on the PE-functionalized hydrogels had the greatest viability, adhesion, and spreading of cells. Altogether, these data highlight the interesting effect of propolis bio-functionalization to enhance the biological features of CNF/PVA hydrogel as a functional matrix for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coupled equations of pollution and aeration for flow in a river were studied under generalized assumptions in terms of parameter dependency on space and time, as well as general boundary constraints. An analytical solution was obtained in the steady-state case. Also, the system was solved in its unsteady state numerically in a dimensionless form using the finite difference scheme. The effect of different parameters controlling the flow (such as the velocity, Peclet number, injected pollutants, and so on...) was studied. Investigations indicate that the special cases of the proposed model (i.e., uniform distribution of pollutant and Dissolved Oxygen concentrations, and zero injected pollutants along the river) give results that agree with the previous studies. This simple model helps in understanding the behavior of the pollution-aeration process and its relation to the injected pollution along a river and its effect on fish survival. A simple procedure was discussed in this study to help in regulating farming, industrial, and urban practices and impose restrictions if necessary. This study determines with accuracy the intervals of the river at which fish can survive at a given time, as well as the maximum amount of pollutants allowed to be injected along the river for fish survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the effect of enzymes as a toxin detoxifier (DETOXIZYME) dietary supplementation on performance during growth, blood chemistry, and immunity under clostridia infection in chickens. A total of 480, day-old male chicks were randomly distributed to four groups, with six replicates of 20 birds each. The first control negative treatment (A) fed the basal formula as commercial feed prepared following the strain's needs, the second control positive group (B) fed the basal formula challenged with Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) type A, the third group (C) fed the basal formula with 100 g DETOXIZYME/ton of feed and challenged with clostridia, and the fourth group (D) fed the control basal formula with 100 g DETOXIZYME/ton of feed. DETOXIZYME dietary supplementation significantly boosted body weight (BW), body weight gain (BWG), feed intake (FI), and European production efficiency factor (EPEF) and improved the feed conversion rate (FCR) of the broilers. The dietary supplementation of DETOXIZYME significantly increased carcass trait and spleen. However, liver and abdominal fat weight significantly decreased compared with clostridia-challenged groups. The values of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), uric acid, creatinine, and Malondialdehyde (MDA) were decreased. While calcium, phosphate, zinc, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels were improved in birds that took basal formulas fortified with DETOXIZYME contrary to the other treatment groups during 35 days of age. Plasma total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) values were reduced versus the other treatment groups. Dietary supplementation of DETOXIZYME increased total protein, albumin, globulin, and Newcastle Disease (ND) immunity titer levels in the overall period compared to other groups. Dietary DETOXIZYME supplementation decreased clostridia and E. coli bacteria counts and improved gut morphometry. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of DETOXIZYME had a positive impact on performance, blood biochemistry, immunity, and bacterial counts and improved the gut morphology in broilers under clostridia infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the re-sequencing of our previous whole-genome sequencing (WGS) for selected individuals of Dazu-black goat (DBG) and Inner-Mongolia Cashmere goat (IMCG) breeds was used to detect and compare the differentiation in Indels depending on the reference genome of goat. Then, three selected candidate Indels rs668795676, rs657996810, and rs669452874 of the three genes SUFU, SYCP2L and GLIPR1L1, respectively, have been chosen, based on the results of prior GWAS across the genome, and examined for their association with body weight and dimensions (body height, body length, heart girth, chest width, cannon circumference, and chest depth) by kompetitive allele specific PCR assay for 342 goats from the three studied goat breeds (DBG, n = 203; ♂99, ♀104), IMCG (n = 65; 15♂, 50♀), and Hechuan white goat (HWG, n = 74; 34♂, 40♀) breeds. The analysis of 192.747 Gb WGS revealed an average 334,151 Indels in the whole genome of DBG and IMCG breeds. Chromosome 1 had a maximum number of mutations (Indels) of 58,497 and 55,527 for IMCG and DBG, respectively, while chromosome 25 had the least number of mutations of 15,680 and 16,103 for IMCG and DBG, respectively. The majority of Indels were either Ins or Del of short fragments of 1–5 bp, which covered 79.06 and 71.78% of the total number of Indels mutations in IMCG and DBG, respectively. Comparing the differences of Indels between the studied goat breeds revealed 100 and 110 unique Indels for IMCG and DBG, respectively. The Indels loci in the intron region were unique for both studied goat breeds which were related to 30 and 38 candidate genes in IMCG and DBG, respectively, including SUFU, SYCP2L, and GLIPR1L1 genes. Concerning rs669452874 locus, body height and body length of Del/Del genotype in DBG were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of Ins/Del genotype, while body height and body length of Del/Del genotype in IMCG were significantly higher (P < 0.01) than those of Ins/Ins genotype, whereas body height and body length and heart girth of Del/Del genotype in HWG were significantly higher (P < 0.01) than those of the Ins/Del and Ins/Ins genotypes. Thus, Del/Del genotype of rs669452874 locus can be used as a candidate molecular marker related to the body dimensions in the studied goat breeds. [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]

Fusarium crown and foot rot, caused by F. solani f. sp. cucurbitae, are major fungal diseases affecting zucchini and other cucurbits. Despite the efficacy of synthetic fungicides, their health and environmental hazards have highlighted the urgent need for safer alternatives, such as phytochemical-based biocides. Owing to the upregulation of the plant secondary metabolism under stressful conditions, bioprospecting in harsh environments could reveal ore plants for bioactive metabolites. In this study, thirteen wild plants were collected from their natural habitat in a semiarid environment (Yanbu, Saudi Arabia) and extracted to obtain phenolics rich extracts. Total polyphenols, flavonoids, antioxidant capacities and the antifungal activities of the extracts against a pathogenic isolate of F. solani were assessed. Fusarium solani was isolated from infected zucchini and characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Hierarchical clustering analysis of the phytochemical screening and in vitro bioactivity revealed that Rosmarinus officinalis, Pulicaria crispa, Achillea falcata and Haloxylon salicornicum were the richest in polyphenols and the most powerful against F. solani. Further, the extracts of these four plants significantly decreased the disease incidence in zucchini, where P. crispa was the premier. Interestingly, results of transmission electron microscopy revealed that extract of P. crispa, as a representative of the powerful group, induced ultrastructural disorders in fungal cells. Therefore, this study suggests the use of R. officinalis, P. crispa, A. falcata and H. salicornicum grown in semi-arid environments as ore plants to develop phytochemical-based biocides against Fusarium crown and foot rot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Wadi Qena region, the digital elevation model (DEM), aeromagnetic, and magnetotelluric data are processed and examined to outline surface water flow patterns, the subsurface structures, demonstrate their effects on the groundwater flow direction, and assess the groundwater aquifer thickness and the relationship between subsurface structures and the inherited surface water flow (drainage pattern). Wadi Qena's drainage pattern and watershed basins were delineated using satellite digital elevation data in order to accomplish these objectives. The first vertical derivative transformation was used and examined to determine the prevailing northwest-southeast and northeast-southwest structural trends impacting the region. In order to handle aeromagnetic data, it is necessary first to reduce the observed magnetic data such that they correspond to the reduced magnetic pole (RTP). The two-dimensional analytical signal technique was used to discover that the depth of the basement rocks, which in the research region serve as the bedrock of the overlying groundwater aquifer, ranges from 101 to − 1165 m relative to sea level. This information was obtained by measuring the distance from the earth's surface to the bedrock. To further define the accurate subsurface geological model in the region, the conducted magnetotelluric survey in the area was interpreted using the 1-D inversion technique, and the results were coupled with the existing drill data. The base of the groundwater aquifer was discovered to be between 350 and 410 m deep. Finally, the results are reliable and closely related to earlier geological and geophysical investigations in the studied area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evaluating the serum levels of IP-10, MCP-1, MIP-1α, and IL-6 and genotyping of rs12252 SNP of IFITM3 gene among different categories of COVID-19 patients might aid in understanding the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and contribute to developing disease-specific biomarkers and therapeutic strategies. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study involving a total of 84 COVID-19 patients confirmed by positive RT-PCR and 28 healthy controls. COVID-19 patients were recruited from the intensive care unit (ICU) and COVID unit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Shahbag, Dhaka. COVID-19 patients were categorized into moderate, severe, and critically ill groups according to the World Health Organization classification. The serum IP-10, MCP-1, and MIP-1α levels were measured by cytometric bead array assay by flow cytometry, and serum IL-6 level was detected by the chemiluminescence method. rs12252 SNP of the IFITM3 gene was detected by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR RFLP). Results: The serum IP-10, MCP-1, MIP-1α, and IL-6 levels among critically ill COVID-19 patients were significantly higher than that in patients with moderate disease and healthy controls (p < 0.001). Genotype distribution for rs12252 (42 T/C) SNP of the IFITM3 gene between the different groups of COVID-19 patients and healthy controls showed that CC genotype was statistically associated with disease severity (p < 0.001). Conclusions: IP-10 and MCP-1, MIP-α, IL-6, and CC genotype of rs12252 (42 T/C) SNP of IFITM3 gene are associated with COVID-19 severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The promising features of most bacterial celluloses (BC) promote the continuous mining for a cost-effective production approach toward wide and sustainable applications. Herein, cantaloupe peels (CP) were successfully implemented for sustainable BC production. Results indicated that the enzymatically hydrolyzed CP supported the maximum BC production of approximately 3.49 g/L when used as a sole fermentation media. The produced BC was fabricated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (Ch), and loaded with green synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) to improve its biological activity. The novel composite showed an antimicrobial activity against several human pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Furthermore, the new composite revealed a significant in vitro anticancer activity against colon (Caco-2), hepatocellular (HepG-2), and breast (MDA) cancer cells, with low IC50 of 0.48, 0.27, and 0.33 mg/mL for the three cell lines, respectively. On the other hand, the new composite was remarkably safe for human skin fibroblast (HSF) with IC50 of 1.08 mg/mL. Interestingly, the composite membranes exhibited lethal effects against all stages of larval instar and pupal stage compared with the control. In this study, we first report the diverse potential applications of BC/PVA/Ch/CuO-NPs composites based on green synthesized CuO-NPs and sustainably produced BC membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Condensation polymerization, catalytic breakdown, kink production, and double bond induction in the feedstock have been tested first time for biodiesel production. Biodiesel as an alternative fuel has gained much importance in the past few decades. Still, higher densities and poor low-temperature flow properties have made its excessive usage quite questionable. Therefore, the present research work was designed to overcome the above-mentioned problems by taking a step towards sustainable development of renewable energy sources. The fatty oil of Pongamia pinnata was extracted, vacuum filtered, fractionated, and treated to optimize the carbon chain length of fatty acids (by condensation polymerization, catalytic breakdown, kink production, and double bond induction) prior to the base-catalyzed transesterification. The highest biodiesel yield (%) was obtained by removing excessive long-chain fatty acids that could cause the hindrance in transesterification reaction and reduce the quality of fuel. The gas chromatographic analysis of fatty acids of Pongamia pinatta showed the highest percentages of oleic acid (54.76 ± 0.001%), linoleic acid (11.87 ± 0.085%), and palmitic acid (10.03 ± 0.014%). The results of the present study showed the best low-temperature flow properties of fraction-ethylene glycol-L-V [(cloud point (CP): 1.7 ± 0.056 °C) and (pour point (PP): −5.2 ± 0.098 °C)] and fraction-catalytic breakdown-L-II [(cloud point (CP): 1.5 ± 0.054 °C) and (pour point (PP): −5.2 ± 0.023 °C)]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate novel applications for chicken feather waste hydrolysate through a green, sustainable process. Accordingly, an enzymatically degraded chicken feather (EDCFs) product was used as a dual carbon and nitrogen source in the production medium of bacterial cellulose (BC). The yield maximization was attained through applying experimental designs where the optimal level of each significant variable was recorded and the yield rose 2 times. The produced BC was successfully characterized by FT-IR, XRD and SEM. On the other hand, sludge from EDCFs was used as a paper coating agent. The mechanical features of the coated papers were evaluated by bulk densities, maximum load, breaking length, tensile index, Young's modulus, work to break and coating layer. The results showed a decrease in tensile index and an increase in elongation at break. These indicate more flexibility of the coated paper. The coated paper exhibits higher resistance to water vapor permeability and remarkable oil resistance compared to the uncoated one. Furthermore, the effectiveness of sludge residue in removing heavy metals was evaluated, and the sorption capacities were ordered as Cu ++ > Fe ++ > Cr ++ > Co ++ with high affinity (3.29 mg/g) toward Cu ++ and low (0.42 mg/g) towards Co ++ in the tested metal solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to develop new approach for soil suitability evaluation, Based on the fact that choosing the proper agricultural sites is a requirement for good ergonomic and financial feasibility. The AHP included a selection of different criteria used for analysis and categorized according to their usefulness in relation to the growth conditions/requirements of the selected crops. Lithology, soil physicochemical, topography (slope and elevation), climate (temperature and rainfall), and irrigation water were the main criteria selected for the study. The study indicated that the area is suitable for agricultural use, taking into account the quality of the water used to maintain the quality of the soil. According to the FAO the suitability result was for S1 (0.71%), S2 (19.81%), S3 (41.46%), N1 (18.33%) and N2 (19.68%) of the total area. While the results obtained from the new approach for the study 9.51%, 30.82%, 40.12% and 19.54 for very high, high, moderate, low and very low suitability respectively, Taking into account that the constraints units of FAO is located in very low suitability class with 0.69% of the total area which Not valid for crop production due to some restrictions. The findings of the study will help narrow the area to the suitable sites that may further be sustainably used for annual and/or perennial crops. The proposed approach has high potential in applications for assessing land conditions and can facilitate optimal planning for agricultural use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocarcinogenesis is a multifactorial process that arises from a integration of genetic and epigenetic anomalies leading to abnormal gene expression and function. It is difficult to characterize HCC with a single biomarker. Our study aimed at detecting the expression of a panel of 8 methylated genes (SOCS1, APC, Gadd45b, CDKN1B, P15, PAX6, STAT1 and MSH2) as regulatory factors among Egyptian patients with HCC. This study was conducted on HCC tissue samples of 30 Egyptian patients in comparison with their non-cancerous adjacent cirrhotic tissue as a control. Tissue samples were obtained from patients who have undergone living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) or liver resection at El Sahel Teaching Hospital (Cairo, Egypt). A special Custom designed PCR Arrays was used to analyze the expression profiles of chosen methylated genes associated with HCC. Expression of SOCS1, APC, Gadd45b, CDKN1B, P15, PAX6, STAT1 and MSH2 were lower in the HCC tissue compared to the cirrhotic tissue (p value = 0.015, 0.081, 0.004, 0.027, 0.211, 0.015, 0.025 and 0.0001 respectively). 5 genes (SOCS1, APC, GAdd45b, CDKN1B, and MSH2) showed the ability to be used as diagnostic biomarkers for HCC with high sensitivity and specificity values at cut off values: 1.05, 1.17, 0.995, 0.546, and 0.125 respectively. As for the other 3 genes (P15, PAX6, STAT1), PAX6 gene has the highest sensitivity at a cut off value of 0.3364. A significant negative correlation was shown between alpha fetoprotein (AFP) and 5 of the studied genes (SOCS1, APC, Gadd45b, STAT1, and MSH2). Expression of the selected hypermethylated genes (SOCS1, APC, Gadd45b, CDKN1B, P15, PAX6, STAT1 and MSH2) in HCC tissue samples was lower than adjacent tissue. Their role should be further studied to solve the mystery that surrounds the pathogenesis of HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is about enhancing the smart grid by proposing a new hybrid feature-selection method called feature selection-based ranking (FSBR). In general, feature selection is to exclude non-promising features out from the collected data at Fog. This could be achieved using filter methods, wrapper methods, or a hybrid. Our proposed method consists of two phases: filter and wrapper phases. In the filter phase, the whole data go through different ranking techniques (i.e., relative weight ranking, effectiveness ranking, and information gain ranking) The results of these ranks are sent to a fuzzy inference engine to generate the final ranks. In the wrapper phase, data is being selected based on the final ranks and passed on three different classifiers (i.e., Naive Bayes, Support Vector Machine, and neural network) to select the best set of the features based on the performance of the classifiers. This process can enhance the smart grid by reducing the amount of data being sent to the cloud, decreasing computation time, and decreasing data complexity. Thus, the FSBR methodology enables the user load forecasting (ULF) to take a fast decision, the fast reaction in short-term load forecasting, and to provide a high prediction accuracy. The authors explain the suggested approach via numerical examples. Two datasets are used in the applied experiments. The first dataset reported that the proposed method was compared with six other methods, and the proposed method was represented the best accuracy of 91%. The second data set, the generalization data set, reported 90% accuracy of the proposed method compared to fourteen different methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a natural biodegradable, eco-friendly fiber, lying within the nanoscale range. It is reputable for its various physical and chemical qualities, like high hydrophilicity, immense crystallinity, ease of sterility, being toxin-free, and extremely pure. Adding to its wide applicability in different fields, this study evaluated the applicability of a developed gelling substitute for plant tissue culture media. The BC matrix was characterized under the acronym PLATIBACGEL (PLAnt TIssue Culture BActerial Cellulose GEL), formed by Komagataeibacter hansenii AS.5, preisolated from rotten apple waste. Scanning electron microscope, Fourier-transform infrared, X-ray diffractometer, and tensile strength analyses confirmed the formation of purified, porous, and heterogeneous densely packed multiple network polymers possessing cellulose properties. The water holding capacity (WHC) values of wet and dried BC membranes were 9179% and 226.9%, respectively, and the water absorption rate (WAR) of dry BC membranes was higher than that of wet membranes. Using BC as a tissue culture gelling agent, six genotypes from tomato and wheat seeds were cultured in vitro, for guaranteeing explant genetic diversity, over seven treatments. Treatment 5, included PLATIBACGEL as the main constituent, improved and sustained all in vitro seed germination, root penetration, and plant support. Likewise, repeated tomato micropropagation subcultures were successful. Results demonstrated applying PLATIBACGEL as a promising, reusable, cheap, and reliable alternative plant micropropagation media gelling agent. Wherefore, plant cellular developers and tissue-culturists can utilize bio-polymers like BC for better understanding plant cell response to different in vitro culturing conditions, with expected beneficial returns on gelling agents industry and markets as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial cellulose (BC), a promising polysaccharide of microbial origin, is usually produced through synthetic (chemically defined) or natural media comprising of various environmental wastes (with exact composition unknown), through low-cost and readily available means. Various agricultural, industrial, and food processing wastes have been explored for sustainable BC production. Both conventional (using one variable at a time) and statistical approaches have been used for BC optimization, either during the static fermentation to obtain BC membranes (pellicle) or agitated fermentation that yields suspended fibers (pellets). Multiple studies have addressed BC production, however, the strategies applied in utilizing various wastes for BC production have not been fully covered. The present study reviews the nutritional requirements for maximal BC production including different optimization strategies for the cultivation conditions. Furthermore, commonly-used applications of BC, in various fields, including recent developments, and our current understanding have also been summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This field work was conducted to describe the body measurements and the body indices along with the correlations among them for 513 goats organized into the following breeds: Saanen milk goat (B1), Black Boer x Dazu black goat (B2), Hechuan white goat (B3), Dazu black goat (B4), Inner Mongolia cashmere goat (B5), B4x B5 cross (B6), and B6x B6 cross (B7) residents of different Chinese regions but raised in Dazu Black farm, Beibei, Southwest China. Data were collected on adult males and females of similar age (36.50 ± 0.75 months). Results showed that the B4, B2, B6, and B7 were heavier than other breeds with mean live body weight of 60.80, 59.00, 62.75, and 63.08 kg, respectively, while that of B3, B1, and B5 were 57.00, 43.42, and 57.15 kg. Meanwhile, B1, B2, B5, B6, and B7 had longer bodies than other breeds, recording 77.00, 73.83, 72.50, 65.17, and 67.17 cm, respectively. As for wither height, B1, B2, B4, B5, and B6 recorded 75.33, 68.33, 68.33, 66.67, and 66.17 cm, respectively. These differences were significant (P < 0.05). The results revealed variable correlation coefficients among body measurements. Most body indices showed variation in estimated correlations between breed groups (P < 0.05). These findings revealed the presence of a wide range of differences for body measurements and the body indices among studied breeds. Such diversity in the body conformation is crucial to implement reliable selection strategies for breeding goats, Also, these findings can help to commence future step for appraisal of quantitative traits and initiate genome analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyamide-12/Portland cement nanocomposite was prepared by using the exfoliated adsorption method. The fabricated nanocomposite was applied first time to remove Congo red (CR), brilliant green (BG), methylene blue (MB), and methyl red (MR) from the synthetic wastewater. The polymer nanocomposite was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, elemental mapping, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area analysis, and X-ray diffraction. The adsorption was rapid and all the studied dyes were absorbed on the surface of the polymer nanocomposite in 90 min. The point of zero charge was found at pH 5 and the factors such as pH, time, and temperature were found to affect the adsorption efficiency. Freundlich isotherm and pseudo-second-order models well-fitted the adsorption isotherm and kinetics data, respectively. The calculated maximum adsorption capacity was 161.63, 148.54, 200.40, and 146.41 mg/g for CR, BG, MB, and MR, respectively. The mode of the adsorption process was endothermic, spontaneous, and physical involving electrostatic attraction. On an industrial scale, the high percentage of desorption and slow decrease in the percentage of adsorption after every five regeneration cycles confirm the potential, practicality, and durability of the nanocomposite as a promising and advanced adsorbent for decolorization of colored wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the properties and quality characteristics of hair and cashmere fibres of three goat breeds raised in Southwest China, namely; Dazu black goat (DBG, n = 203; ♂99, ♀104), Inner Mongolia cashmere goat (IMCG, n = 65; 21♂, 44♀) and their first cross (F1, n = 79; 39♂, 40♀). Totals of 5219, 2130 and 2981 fibre samples, from the three breeds respectively, were taken prior to shearing at 32.5 ± 01.25 months of age from four body sites; shoulder, side-portion, abdomen and leg. Breed effect was significant (P < 0.01) for most hair and cashmere properties. IMCG and F1 hair lengths were longer (P < 0.001) with less variable lengths than DBG. Shoulder hair diameters of the three breeds were not different (P > 0.05) but biggest of the side-portion and abdomen sites of DBG were bigger (P > 0.01), however, the biggest (P < 0.001) hair diameter was recorded for the leg site of F1 and the smallest (P > 0.01) for IMCG. IMCG recorded the longest value for cashmere lengths followed by DBG, while F1 recorded the lowest (P = 0.001), whilst F1 recorded the biggest (P = 0.001) diameter whereas no differences existed between parents' breeds. The cortical cell lengths of IMCG and DBG were 94.57 and 86.85 μm without significant difference detected between breeds. Differences between hair length and diameter for body sites of the studied goat breeds were significant (P < 0.01) but between whiteness, cashmere diameter and diameter of cortical cells were not. Sex had no significant effect on all hair/cashmere properties. Quality characteristics of cashmere fibres from IMCG and F1 were better (P < 0.001) than from DBG. Leg hair diameter, curl recovery rate and cashmere diameter were superior in the crossbred F1 compared to pure breed parents, and DBG was superior to IMCG for fibre elasticity and intensity traits. FGF-5 gene was detected as a candidate gene for hair and cashmere traits in IMCG breed. Whilst, KIT gene was found to be associated with coat colour in the studied breeds. Extra investigations to examine more cashmere goat breeds and crosses are needed to discover genetic variability in cashmere production locally and worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geophysical surveys were conducted in the Lahun area (Fayoum, Egypt). The Lahun area is known to have been the royal necropolis during the period of Senusret II (1897–1878 BC), where he built his pyramid. Integrated magnetic and gravity measurements were applied to investigate five locations in the area. The gravity survey was implemented in the areas where chambers, shafts, or cavity-like structures are expected, and magnetic survey was applied in the areas where mudbrick structures are expected. The magnetic survey was conducted using a Geoscan fluxgate gradiometer, whereas the gravity survey was conducted using a Scintrex CG-5 gravimeter. The geophysical survey successfully revealed anomalies that could be part of the trench between the Queen's Pyramid and the Senusret II Pyramid, several pits in the eastern and southern sides of Senusret II Pyramid, two chambers that could be royal tombs, and the remains of three large mudbrick structures that could be ancient warehouses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facies of rifting basins reflect different depositional environments from deep to shallow conditions. The present study focuses on subsurface facies characterization and source rock assessment of Kareem and Rudeis rocks in six wells lying in the central Gulf of Suez. The distribution of the lithologic patterns delineated through several constructed facies maps. Porosity cross-plots of Kareem and Rudeis formations to determine the rock minerals and porosity attitudes. Rock–Eval pyrolysis was applied to determine the kerogen type, organic matter richness, percentage, and maturation of the source rocks. The greater depth of the two formations was reflected in the western parts while their stratigraphic thickness increases toward the east and the north directions, with decreasing thickness towards the west direction due to an underlain basin structure of the pre-Miocene. Isolith maps show three deep marine lithologies for the two formations with the anhydrite as a fourth shallow marine lithology in the Kareem Formation only. These lithofacies reflect the turnover from the deep to the shallow depositional environment. The facies change from a main shaly limestone in the Rudeis Formation to calcareous shale in the Kareem formation, indicating transmutation from the lower Miocene deep to the middle Miocene shallow marine environments. The cross-plots reflected the existence of limestone, shale, and anhydrite. Geochemically, both formations are marginally good source rock with a marginally good generation of mixed type II/III and type III. Accordingly, Rudeis and Kareem formations could be good reservoirs rather than being potential source rocks in the central Gulf of Suez. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel and sustainable chitosan (CS)/activated charcoal (AC) composites were prepared by cross-linking with epichlorohydrin (ECH) to form a porous structure. Different titanium dioxide nanoparticle (TiO2 NPs) concentrations (0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8% w/w) were added to enhance the photocatalytic, antibacterial, larvicidal, and pupicidal activities' efficiency toward Rose Bengal (RB) dye and the Culex pipiens. The composites were characterized by FT-IR, XRD, XPS, BET and SEM. The SEM images revealed the porous structure of CS/AC and TiO2 nanoparticles were uniformly distributed in the CS/AC matrix. The degradation of RB dye was used to test the photocatalytic behavior of the composites. Supporting TiO2 on a CS/AC matrix resulted in a significant increase in photocatalytic performance. The antibacterial activities supported by CS/AC/TiO2 NPs were evaluated by bacterial growth inhibition against B. subtilis, S. aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa. The results showed that CS/AC/TiO2 NPs composite has an inhibitory effect and therefore considered antibacterial agents. CS/AC/0.4%TiO2 NPs showed maximum efficacy against larvicidal activity and pupicidal of mosquito vector which recorded 99.00 ± 1.14, 95.00 ± 1.43, and 92.20 ± 2.64 for the first, second, and third larval instars and 66.00 ± 2.39 for pupal mortality, while the repellent activity reported high protection at 82.95 ± 2.99 with 3.24 mg/cm2 dose compared to control DEET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fog computing (FC) designates a decentralized computing structure placed among the devices that produce data and cloud. Such flexible structure empowers users to place resources to increase performance. However, limited resources and low delay services obstruct the application of new virtualization technologies in the task scheduling and resource management of fog computing. Scheduling and load balancing (LB) in the cloud computing have been widely studied. However, countless efforts in LB have been proposed in the fog architectures. This presents some enticing challenges to solve the problem of how tasks are routed between different physical devices between fog nodes and cloud. Within fog, due to its mass and heterogeneity of devices, the scheduling is very difficult. There are still few studies that have been conducted. LB is a very interesting and important study area in FC as it aims to achieve high resource utilization. There are various challenges in LB such as security and fault tolerance. The main objective of this paper is to introduce an effective dynamic load balancing technique (EDLB) using convolutional neural network and modified particle swarm optimization, which is composed of three main modules, namely: (i) fog resource monitor (FRM), (ii) CNN-based classifier (CBC), and (iii) optimized dynamic scheduler (ODS). The main purpose of EDLB is to achieve LB in FC environment via dynamic real-time scheduling algorithm. This paper studies the FC architecture for Healthcare system applications. The FRM is responsible for monitoring each server resource and save the server's data into table called fog resources table. The CNN-based classifier (CBC) is responsible for classifying each fog server to suitable or not suitable. The optimized dynamic scheduler (ODS) is responsible for assigning the incoming process to the most appropriate server. Comparing EDLB with other previous LB algorithms, it reduces the response time and achieves high resource utilization. Hence, it is an efficient way to ensure the continuous service. Accordingly, EDLB is simple and efficient in real-time systems in fog computing such as in the case of healthcare system. Although several methods in LB for FC have been introduced, they have many limitations. EDLB overcomes these limitations and achieves high performance in various scenarios. It achieved better makespan, average resource utilization and load balancing level as compared to previously mentioned LB algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tea (Camellia sinensis) is a popular and extensively consumed beverage in Malaysia along with many other countries around the world. Grey blight is one of the destructive fungal diseases infecting tea plants which resulted in major yield loss of tea production. Typical symptoms of tea grey blight were observed in Cameron Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia from July to December 2019 which involved the formation of tiny, circular to irregular brown spots that gradually enlarged, turned darker and eventually hampered plant growth. A total of 45 fungal isolates were isolated from grey leaf blight of tea and were identified as Neopestalotiopsis clavispora (24 isolates), and Pseudopestalotiopsis camelliae-sinensis (21 isolates). Morphological characterisation and multigene phylogenetic resolution using internal transcribed spacer (ITS), β-tubulin (tub2), and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α) were applied to identify the fungal isolates. Pathogenicity tests on leaves of C. sinensis showed that all fungal isolates of N. clavispora and Ps. camelliae-sinensis caused grey blight disease. The present study highlighted the occurrence of grey blight disease of tea in Malaysia caused by N. clavispora and Ps. camelliae-sinensis. The findings from the present study could be beneficial in proper disease monitoring, and effective management purposes of tea plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]