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Abstract The ZnFe prussian blue analogue [ZnFe(PBA)] was infused with Ti3C2Tx (MXene) denoted as ZnFe(PBA)@Ti3C2Tx and was prepared by an in-situ sonication method to use as a non-enzymatic screen printed electrode sensor. The advantage of non-enzymatic sensors is their excellent sensitivity, rapid detection, low cost and simple design. The synthesized ZnFe(PBA)@Ti3C2Tx was characterized for its physical and chemical characterization by XRD, Raman, XPS, EDAX, and FESEM analysis. It possessed multiple functionalized layers and a cubic structure in the nanohybrid. Further, the sensor was investigated by using electroanalytical studies such as cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry analysis. The enhanced surface area with a cubic structure of ZnFe(PBA) and the excellent electrical response of Ti3C2 nanosheet support the advancement of a non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensor with improved sensitivity of 973.42 µA mM−1 cm−2 with the limit of detection (LOD) of 3.036 µM (S/N = 3) and linear detection range (LDR) from 0.01 to 1 mM.

The rationale of this research was to explore the genetic divergence of 54 kantakari accessions (Solanum virginianum L. syn. S. surattense Burm. f.), to identify their significant traits, and unravel their genetic variations. Kantakari is a widely used medicinal plant in traditional medicine worldwide and is also known for its allopathic properties. The morphological descriptors and molecular markers (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) used to characterize these samples revealed significant within-accession heterogeneity, indicating the possibility of future selection. Twenty-three morphological and biochemical features were examined to assess taxonomic traits. Accessions were classified into six clusters based on Mahalanobis D2 statistics of 23 quantitative traits. Clusters V and VI had the largest intercluster distance (1183.81), whereas Cluster IV had the largest intracluster distance (D2 = 275.67) (Cluster V and VI). Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA marker amplification using 10 polymorphic primers revealed 79 alleles with an overall mean of 7.90 alleles per marker, with Polymorphism Information Content values varying from 0.11 to 0.37 (Mean = 0.30). Cluster assessment produced three distinct groups. In conclusion, the investigation underscores that substantial diversity was observed among the surveyed kantakari accessions. Using molecular markers in tandem with morphological characterization, presents a robust approach for elucidating the intricacies of species-specific genetic variation with greater accuracy and depth.

BackgroundEnvironmental soil contamination is a serious problem for humans worldwide, as it causes many diseases.MethodsThe present study focuses on utilizing biosurfactants produced by Pseudomonas stutzeri (P. stutzeri) NA3 and Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) EN6, as an electrolyte for removing chromium (Cr) from contaminated soil using the electrokinetic (EK) process.ResultsAs a result, biosurfactants produced by P. stutzeri NA3 and B. cereus EN6, being lipopeptides, increase heavy metal mobility in the EK process. The Cr removal efficiency of a novel electrolyte (biosurfactants) in the EK process was compared with that of NA3 and EN6 biosurfactants. The EK results revealed a maximum Cr removal of 75 and 70% by NA3 and EN6, respectively, at the end of 7 days.DiscussionThe biosurfactant aids in the breaking down of the heavy metals that are present deeper into the soil matrix. From the metagenomics analysis, it was identified that biosurfactant changes the microbial community with an enhanced ability to remove heavy metals. The phytotoxicity assay confirms that NA3 biosurfactant solution showed 95% seed germination and can lower hazardous pollutants in the soil.ConclusionThe application of biosurfactants as a potent electrolyte for the remediation of hazardous pollutants is an integrated process. Overall, the results of this study suggest that biosurfactants can serve as an economic and efficient electrolyte in the EK process to remove Cr from polluted soil.

Background: Previous research conducted since 1968 have extensively examined the correlation between tooth color and skin color. The purpose of these studies was to determine whether skin color could effectively influence dentists in choosing tooth color. The objective of this systematic review is to examine the methodologies employed in assessing the relationship between tooth and skin color, and to identify the most precise and dependable approaches for modeling and evaluating this relationship. The systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO (CRD42022356022). This systematic review was done on four databases using PRISMA 2009 search strategy, and selected studies were chosen according to PICO model. JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist was used for quality assessment. Out of 1611 articles that were found in the databases, 10 articles matched the criteria and were selected for this systematic review study. Three main methods were found in the 10 studies: conventional methods, digital methods, conventional-digital (mixed) methods. Digital methods were found to be the more reliable methods for color evaluation. Specific settings should be applied during digital color measuring methods. Conventional and digital assessment methods showed either a negative or a positive significant association between the color of teeth and skin. However, the combined method (digital for tooth and visual for skin) did not show any such relation. It is imperative to conduct and apply research in Artificial Intelligence to forecast tooth color based on knowledge of skin color.

In this study, the shielding properties of novel polymer composites, developed by integrating glycidyl methacrylate with nanoparticles of bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) and tungsten oxide (WO3), were explored. The ability of the composites to attenuate gamma radiation was evaluated by measuring the emissions from Ba-133, Co-60, Cs-137, and Na-22. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra were obtained for both the pure polymer glycidyl methacrylate and the samples containing nanostructures of Bi2O3, Bi2O3/WO3, and WO3, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the samples. The incorporation of Bi2O3 and WO3 nanoparticles into the polymer glycidyl methacrylate matrix significantly enhanced the composites' ability to attenuate gamma radiation, as demonstrated by the increased linear and mass attenuation coefficients. The results showed good agreement between the experiment and the XCOM database. The composites exhibited significant efficiency in attenuating lower-energy gamma rays, which is particularly advantageous in the medical and nuclear industries.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the association between lens thickness and cataract in participants aged 0 to 5 years. Design: This was a prospective, multicenter, case–control study. Participants: We enrolled 118 participants (171 eyes) aged 0 to 5 years, mean age 14.6 ± 17.0 months, range 0 to 60 months. Methods: Lens thickness was measured on 342 ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) images. Main Outcome Measures: Lens thickness; feasibility of lens thickness measurement from UBM images. Results: The mean lens thickness among noncataracts was 3.60 ± 0.17 mm, compared with 3.16 ± 0.61 mm among cataracts (P < 0.0001). Lens thickness

Background Previous studies have shown that women with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HCM) have worse long‐term outcomes irrespective of intervention. However, the outcomes of patients undergoing alcohol septal ablation (ASA) based on sex have not been described. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate pressure changes and long‐term mortality in patients with HCM undergoing ASA based on sex. Methods and Results This is a single‐center retrospective study evaluating hemodynamic changes and long‐term mortality in patients with HCM treated with ASA according to sex. A total of 259 patients were included (aged 68.4±11.9 years, 62.2% women). Women had higher age and baseline pressures at the time of ASA, with a greater percent reduction in mean left atrial pressure (men versus women: 2.2% versus 15.9%, respectively; P=0.02). Women had better survival (median survival rate of men versus women: 8.6 versus 12.5 years, respectively; P=0.011). On Cox multivariable regression, predictors of mortality were age (per group change 80 years; hazard ratio [HR], 1.45 [95% CI, 1.10–1.91], P=0.008), female sex (HR, 0.59 [95% CI, 0.35–0.99], P=0.048), chronic kidney disease (HR, 1.88 [95% CI, 1.06–3.33], P=0.031), and left ventricular outflow tract gradient reduction ≤86% (HR, 1.91 [95% CI, 1.14–3.19], P=0.014). Conclusions Women with HCM undergoing ASA are older and have higher left‐sided baseline pressures compared with men yet have better survival. Further studies exploring the mechanisms of differential outcomes according to sex in patients with HCM undergoing ASA are needed.

In this work, we developed a highly sensitive liquid scintillator (LS) using Coumarin 450 (C450) dye to detect gamma ray and localize Compton edges (CEs). C450 exhibited absorption and fluorescence peaks at 350 nm and 407 nm, respectively, in toluene, at an optimized concentration (3 mM). The LS, contained in a standard glass container (1.8 cm diameter, 3.6 cm height), showed an emission peak in the blue region, matching the high quantum yield of typical PMT photocathodes. We exposed the LS to various gamma radiation sources (137Cs, 60Co, and 22Na), recording responses for different PMT voltages. Gaussian fitting of pulse height distribution spectrum allowed CE identification at the half-height for all PMT voltages. We compared theoretical and experimental results to a GEANT4-simulated detector, obtaining CE positions for radiation interactions and scintillation photon transport. The calibrated GEANT4 simulation was compared to experimental spectra to locate the Compton edges.

Abstract Background Diabetes has become a significant risk factor for COVID-19-related severe illness and death. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of 104 patients, with or without type 2 (diabetes mellitus) DM, diagnosed with COVID-19 between June and September 2021 in Benha University Hospital, Egypt. Outcome measures including discharge after recovery, transfer to ICU and intubation, or death were recorded. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was done for the prediction of death in diabetic patients. Results Length of hospital stay was significantly higher in diabetic (median 15 days) compared to non-diabetic patients (median 10 days). ICU admission and intubation among diabetic patients were substantially higher than non-diabetics. Univariate regression analysis established that old age (p = 0.02: OR = 1.03: CI 1.00–1.07), multiple comorbidities (p = 0.005: OR = 8.66: CI 1.9–38.5), diabetic complications (p = 0.000: OR = 6.401:CI 2.5–16.3), HbA1c (p = 0.01: OR = 1.22: CI 1.04–1.43), length of hospital stay (p = 0.005: OR = 1.07: CI 1.02–1.12), and ICU admission (p = 0.00: OR = 44.1: CI 9.4–205.3) were predictors of death for diabetic patients as well as neutrophilic count, D-dimer, and CRP levels. Multivariate regression analysis concluded that ICU admission was the most significant predictor of death in diabetic patients. Conclusion Type 2 DM patients, infected with the COVID-19 virus exhibited more admission to ICU and intubation with longer hospital stays compared to those without diabetes with a similar death rate. Old age, HbA1C, comorbidities, diabetic complications, length of hospital stay and ICU admission, and inflammatory parameters were significant predictors of death in diabetic patients.

BackgroundCooling towers are specialized heat exchanger devices in which air and water interact closely to cool the water's temperature. However, the cooling water contains organic nutrients that can cause microbial corrosion (MC) on the metal surfaces of the tower. This research explores the combined wastewater treatment approach using electrochemical-oxidation (EO), photo-oxidation (PO), and photoelectrochemical oxidation (PEO) to contain pollutants and prevent MC.MethodsThe study employed electro-oxidation, a process involving direct current (DC) power supply, to degrade wastewater. MC studies were conducted using weight loss assessments, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and x-ray diffraction (XRD).ResultsAfter wastewater is subjected to electro-oxidation for 4 h, a notable decrease in pollutants was observed, with degradation efficiencies of 71, 75, and 96%, respectively. In the wastewater treated by PEO, microbial growth is restricted as the chemical oxygen demand decreases.DiscussionA metagenomics study revealed that bacteria present in the cooling tower water consists of 12% of Nitrospira genus and 22% of Fusobacterium genus. Conclusively, PEO serves as an effective method for treating wastewater, inhibiting microbial growth, degrading pollutants, and protecting metal from biocorrosion.

Background: The circadian rhythm involves numerous metabolic processes, including sleep/awakening, body temperature regulation, hormone secretion, hepatic function, cellular plasticity, and cytokine release (inflammation), that appear to have a dynamic relationship with all the processes above. Studies have linked various cytokines to the chronic state of low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress in obesity. Dawn-to-dusk dry fasting (DDDF) could alleviate the adverse effects of obesity by decreasing inflammation. This study examined the effects of DDDF on circulating inflammatory cytokines in subjects with increased body mass index (BMI). Methods: The current observational prospective study included adult subjects with a BMI equal to or greater than 25 kg/m2 who practiced the annual religious 30-day DDDF. Individuals with significant underlying medical conditions were excluded to limit confounding factors. All subjects were evaluated within two weeks before 30-day DDDF, within the fourth week of 30-day DDDF, and within two weeks after 30-day DDDF. Multiple cytokines and clinical health indicators were measured at each evaluation. Results: Thirteen subjects (10 men and three women) with a mean age of 32.9 years (SD = 9.7 years) and a mean BMI of 32 kg/m2 (SD = 4.6 kg/m2) were included. An overall associated decrease in the levels of multiple cytokines with DDDF was observed. A significant decrease in the mean interleukin 1 beta level was observed within the fourth week of 30-day DDDF (P = 0.045), which persisted even after the fasting period (P = 0.024). There was also a significant decrease in the mean levels of interleukin 15 (IL-15) (P = 0.014), interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (P = 0.041), macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) (P = 0.013), and monokine induced by interferon gamma/chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 9 (P = 0.027) within the fourth week of 30-day DDDF and in the mean levels of fibroblast growth factor 2 (P = 0.010), interleukin 12 p40 subunit (P = 0.038), interleukin 22 (P = 0.025) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (P = 0.046) within two weeks after 30-DDDF. In terms of anthropometric parameters, there was a decrease in mean body weight (P = 0.032), BMI (P = 0.028), and hip circumference (P = 0.007) within the fourth week of 30-day DDDF and a decrease in mean weight (P = 0.026), BMI (P = 0.033) and hip circumference (P = 0.016) within two weeks after 30-day DDDF compared with the levels measured within two weeks before 30-day DDDF. Although there was no significant correlation between changes in weight and changes in circulating inflammatory cytokines, there was a significant positive correlation between changes in waist circumference and changes in specific inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-15, MDC, platelet-derived growth factor, soluble CD40L, vascular endothelial growth factor A) within the fourth week of 30-day DDDF and/or two weeks after 30-day DDDF. A significant decrease in mean average resting heart rate within the fourth week of 30-day DDDF was also observed (P = 0.023), and changes between average resting heart rate and changes in interleukin-8 levels within the fourth week of 30-day DDDF compared with baseline levels were positively correlated (r = 0.57, P = 0.042). Conclusion: DDDF appears to be a unique and potent treatment to reduce low-grade chronic inflammation caused by obesity and visceral adiposity. Further studies with more extended follow-up periods are warranted to investigate the long-term anti-inflammatory benefits of DDDF in individuals with increased BMI.

Background: Marine bacteria, a relatively untapped resource, have shown potential for synthesizing nanoparticles with distinct properties. Methods: The AgNPs were synthesized by using the marine bacteria Planococcus maritimus MBP-2 as a reducing and capping agent. The nanoparticles produced were characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, TEM and FTIR. The Planococcus maritimus MBP-2 synthesized AgNPs adhered antibacterial activity against selected both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia, and antifungal such Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium commune and Penicillium digitatum. and the cytotoxic effect of Dalton’s Lymphoma Ascites (DLA) cell lines. Results: The formation of AgNPs by bacteria was confirmed visually by a shift in color of the solution and the presence of UV-absorption maxima at 440 nm. The TEM images revealed spherical and cubic structures, with an average size of 24.9 nm. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of some functional groups by showing peaks at 3330 and 1636 cm−1. The AgNPs exhibited minimal antibacterial activity except P. aeruginosa. (11 mm). Whereas, inhibiting the growth of the fungi belonging to genus Aspergillus than to Penicillium. Also, in vitro cytotoxicity of AgNPs was evaluated using Dalton’s Lymphoma Ascites (DLA) cell lines. The percentage of cell death was maximum (95.4 ± 2.16) at 20 µg/mL, indicating an excellent cytotoxic efficiency of AgNPs against DLA cells from the peritoneal cavity of the tumor-bearing mouse. Conclusion: This study suggests that Planococcus maritimus MBP-2 bacteria-mediated AgNPs can effectively be used as a potential biomedical agent.

Background: In the intensified search to derive biologically active compounds from natural products for various health care issues, attention is focused on non-edible plant sources. Among the wild plants, Calotropis [milk weeds] of the family Apocynaceae, are the repository of pharmaceutically active phytoconstituents. The flowers of C. gigantea are expected to be rich in bioactive compounds. Methods: The bioactive compounds and in vitro anticancer activity of C. gigantea flower extract were investigated. The compounds in the extract were separated using GC–MS and confirmed their structures with NIST (National Institute of Standard and Technology) database. The cytotoxicity of flower extracts against A-549 lung cancer cell lines was evaluated by MTT assay. Among the six identified compounds, three biologically active compounds with short retention time and abundance were chosen for molecular docking for anticancer activities. Molecular docking using the software GLIDE version 6.5 was used to trace their interactions with the anti-lung cancer protein, IT69. Results: The phytochemical screening indicated the rich presence of anticancer flavonoid and phenolic compounds in the flower extract. Inhibition of cell viability and growth and morphological alterations in cells were observed when A-549 cells were exposed to different concentrations of flower extract. The highest percentage of cell death (70 %) was observed in cells exposed to 100 µg/ml concentration. Molecular docking of three identified compounds with lung anticancer protein complex, IT69 proved that Butanoic acid, 3-[(phenyl methoxy) imino] trimethylsilyl ester is a good anti-lung cancer agent. Hence for pulmonary cancer, the identified compound can intensively be tested further.

Химиотерапия – один из основных методов лечения злокачественных новообразований. Классические режимы введения химиотерапевтических средств сопровождаются выраженными побочными эффектами, что обусловливает поиск рационального способа введения для повышения эффективности химиотерапии и уменьшения побочных действий препаратов. Разработка новых противоопухолевых лекарственных средств обязательно включает испытания их фармакологической активности при различных режимах введения. На этапе доклинического изучения новых соединений с предполагаемым противоопухолевым действием подбор оптимальной схемы применения также становится актуальной задачей междисциплинарных исследований. В статье приведен анализ публикаций о возможности и эффективности использования метрономного режима введения противоопухолевых препаратов в клинической практике и доклинических исследованиях в зависимости от их патогенетического механизма действия. Результаты исследований показывают, что метрономный режим введения противоопухолевых и антиметастатических лекарственных препаратов, безусловно, является рациональным способом решения проблемы тяжести побочных эффектов и плохой переносимости лекарственной терапии злокачественных новообразований. При этом наибольшая противоопухолевая эффективность в метрономном режиме достигается при комбинированном введении соединений с различным механизмом действия. В доклинических исследованиях препаратов с предполагаемым противоопухолевым эффектом следует придерживаться основных принципов разработки метрономного режима введения: 1) на этапе тестирования новых соединений целесообразно проводить скрининговое введение их в малых дозах на фоне терапии известным противоопухолевым препаратом; 2) подбор минимальной дозы нового соединения можно осуществлять расчетным способом, с учетом его максимально переносимой дозы (первоначальная ориентировочная серия введения в размере 1/10 максимально переносимой дозы).

Background and aimsThe cornerstone of clinical management of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity (PA) aimed at improving cardiometabolic risk. To inform NAFLD prevention and treatment guidelines we aimed to: (i) quantify the role of PA on lowering the risk for NAFLD and fibrosis; (ii) characterize NAFLD and fibrosis association with PA in the context of socioeconomic environment.MethodsA sample of 2648 participants from the NHANES 2003-2006 was selected to develop survey weighted multivariable logistic regression models for predicting NAFLD and significant fibrosis, diagnosed non-invasively via fatty liver index (FLI) and fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index. The PA measures were obtained from a hip-worn accelerometer.ResultsThe predictive model for NAFLD showed AUC of 0.687 and a decrease of 43% in NAFLD risk with moderate vigorous PA (MVPA) (OR = 0.569, p < 0.001). The predictive model for fibrosis had AUC of 0.755 and there was a 48% and a 70% decrease in significant fibrosis risk with MVPA (OR = 0.518, p = 0.022) and total log activity count (TLAC) (OR = 0.296, p = 0.017), respectively. Participants with NAFLD and NAFLD with fibrosis engage in declining PA. Despite having jobs with higher level of PA and participating in more moderate-to-vigorous PA, a larger proportion of Hispanics participants had NAFLD and significant fibrosis.ConclusionsThese findings demonstrate the role of PA as a protective factor against the presence of NAFLD and significant fibrosis. Protective levels of PA in NAFLD differ by races.

CeO2-CePO4 and Ag@CeO2-CePO4 nanocomposites (NCs) were prepared using Penaeus semisulcatus and characterized by various analytical techniques. The NCs exhibited spherical morphology, with average particle sizes measuring 2.36 nm, 3.30 nm and 29.64 nm for the samples air dried, annealed at 550 °C and 800 °C respectively, and the Selected Area Electron Diffraction patterns from HR-TEM revealed their crystalline nature. In 3d X-ray Photoelectron Spectra (XPS) of NCs, the highest binding energies were observed at 916.46 eV (3d3/2) and 898.16 eV (3d5/2) with spin–orbit splitting of 18.3 eV. The X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) patterns of the NCs showed peaks typical of both CeO2 and CePO4 phases. The Fourier Transform-Infra Red (FT-IR) spectrum contained bands due to Ce-O stretching at 560 cm−1 and PO43- groups at 1008 and 711 cm−1, which was further substantiated by Raman spectrum, which had an intense peak at 468 cm−1 corresponding to F2g band of CeO2 and another peak at 976 cm−1 due to PO43- tetrahedron. In the Ultraviolet-Visible Diffuse Reflectance Spectra (UV-Vis DRS), the broad absorption peak at 352 nm and minor peaks around 300 nm confirmed the formation of CeO2-CePO4 NCs. The green synthesized NCs were excellent fluorescence sensors for Pb2+, Cd2+ and Hg2+ in a wide range of concentrations, from 5.0x10-9 M to 4.0x10-5 M. The concentration Vs. emission fitting plot had three distinctive linear ranges. At a low concentration range (5x10-9 to 3.5x10-7 M), the limit of detection for Pb2+, Cd2+ and Hg2+ was found to be 2.41x10-8, 2.56x10-8 and 3.11x10-8 M. The sensitive detection of a mixture of heavy metal ions in ppb levels by biocompatible NCs gained insight in treating aqueous industrial wastes. Further, NCs showed cytotoxicity and UV shielding properties.

Introduction Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon form of stroke with relatively low mortality but higher incidence in younger adults.1–3 Previous work has suggested decreased overall stroke hospitalization volumes, but preserved CVT hospitalization volumes and increased CVT mortality during the COVID‐19 pandemic.4,5 We sought to provide updated incidence and trend data for cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) in the United States from 2016‐2020, examine the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on CVT, and identify predictors of in‐hospital mortality. Methods Validated ICD‐10 codes were used to identify patients with CVT in the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) between 2016 and 2020. The NIS is part of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) and is maintained the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The NIS provides a stratified nationally representative 20% sample of all hospital discharges in the United States, excluding rehabilitation and long‐term acute care hospitals. Annual updates to the NIS are released approximately 20 months after the conclusion of the data year. Sample weights were applied to generate nationally representative estimates, and census data were used to compute incidence rates. The first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic was defined as January‐May 2020. Predictor variables for mortality were selected based upon previous studies of incidence and outcomes of CVT and biological plausibility.6–8 Multivariable logistic regression was conducted using all predictor variables that achieved p

In this work, we designed a rod shape solid-state laser gain media (GM) that can produce amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) in the 630–670 nm region. The GM is made with Rhodamine B (RhB) dissolved in acetone mixed with commercially available rapid photopolymer (PP) resin that predominately (80 %) contains 3-nitro-9-octyl-9H-carbazole (NOCB) and solidified with mercury or halogen lamp. We used a solid-state matrix laser (SSL) rod of RhB embedded NOCB. The results showed that the photoluminescence (PL) of SSL was at approximately 630 m, and the absorption peak was at 575 nm. The concentration of the RhB in acetone was varied from 25 mg/ml to 100 mg/ml and mixed in a 1:10 ratio volume/weight (v/w). GM could be pumped transversely using 355 nm (3rd Harmonic of Nd: YAG) or 405 nm diode laser or a UV lamp. The GM was initially designed with the aim to be pumped using 532 nm since the resin solidified using UV and blue light irradiation. Supersizing, we found that after complete polymerization, optical pumping using 355 nm can be employed to produce ASE. The main advantage of using these SSL are (i) ease of manufacturing, (ii) simplicity to scale up, (iii) low cost, and (iv) 3D printer compatibility. It also has potential applications in the military, science, and medicine, especially facial rejuvenation.

Abstract Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious public health problem characterized by progressive kidney function loss leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) that demands dialysis or kidney transplantation. Early detection can prevent or delay progression to ESRD. The study aimed to gain new insights into the perturbed biochemical reactions and to identify novel distinct biomarkers between ESRD and CKD. Serum samples of 32 patients with ESRD (n = 13) and CKD (n = 19) were analyzed using chemical isotope labeling liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry metabolomics approach. A total of 193 metabolites were significantly altered in ESRD compared to CKD and were mainly involved in aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) biosynthesis, taurine metabolism, and tryptophan metabolism. Three kynurenine derivatives, namely, 2-aminobenzoic acid, xanthurenic acid, and hydroxypicolinic acid were upregulated in ESRD compared to CKD due to the significant decrease in glomerular filtration rate with the progression of CKD to ESRD. N-Hydroxy-isoleucine, 2-aminobenzoic acid, and picolinic acid yielded AUC > 0.99 when analyzed using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis. Our findings suggest that inhibiting the kynurenine pathway might be a promising target to delay CKD progression and that metabolites with high discriminative ability might serve as potential prognostic biomarkers to monitor the progression of CKD to ESRD or used in combination with current markers to indicate the status of kidney damage better.

Viral outbreaks still become global health challenges, for instance, influenza A viruses, Japanese encephalitis, Ebola virus, Yellow fever, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Since 7 May 2022, another outbreak of monkeypox also has been reported in European countries and the United States. Meanwhile, the monkeypox virus is previously endemic only in the western and central parts of Africa. Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease, although the primary animal reservoir remains unknown. This article concisely reviews the monkeypox virus, its transmission, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestation, its changing global epidemiology before and during the current outbreak, and possible driving factors of the recent outbreak. Furthermore, we also discuss whether the monkeypox virus would become endemic beyond Africa. Even though the available data suggests that human-to-human transmission is currently happening and unconnected clusters exist, many efforts have been made to tackle this outbreak, such as active case detection, contact tracing, isolation, and postexposure vaccination.

The current work primarily deals with the synthesis of nitrogen rich carbon dots from Delonix regia along with characterisation using several analytical techniques for fluorescent sensing of Fe(III) and cysteine, electrochemical sensing of hydrogen peroxide and DNA binding. The average particle size of the spherical N-CDs is calculated to be 2.23 nm with a quantum yield of 33.5%. The SAED pattern from HR-TEM confirms the slight graphitisation of the N-CDs along with the amorphous carbon core. The synthesised N-CDs served as an efficient turn off sensor for Fe(III) with a detection limit of 5.76 × 10-7 M and turn on sensor for L-Cysteine with a detection limit of 3.76 × 10-4 M. The nature and extent of binding of the N-CDs with ctDNA was evaluated and the binding constant from the Benesi Hildebrand plot is calculated to be 6.49 (mg/mL)-1. The limit of detection was found to be 71 µM for electrochemical sensing of hydrogen peroxide. The less cytotoxic and excellent biocompatible nature of the N-CDs have been taken advantage to image L6 cells and SKMEL cells.

IntroductionOintments are generally used as a therapeutic agent for topical medication or transdermal drug delivery, such as wound healing and skin lesions.MethodsIn this study, Tridax procumbens plant extract (0.7 g/mL) was used to prepare herbal-infused oil as the oil phase and gelatin-stabilized silver nanoparticle (G-AgNPs) (0.3 g/mL) as the aqueous phase. To blend the oil and aqueous phases, rhamnolipid biosurfactant with a critical micelle concentration of 55 mg/L from strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa PP4 has been used for herb ointment preparation. The average size of the synthesized G-AgNPs was observed between 10–30 nm and confirmed as spherical-shaped particles by TEM analysis. Subsequently, GC–MS and FTIR characterization are used to confirm herb ointment’s chemical and functional characteristics.ResultsBased on the antibacterial studies, the highest microbial growth inhibition was observed for herb ointment, about 19.5 mm for the pathogen Staphylococcus aureus at the concentration of 100 μg/mL, whereas 15.5 mm was obtained for Escherichia coli, respectively. In addition, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay showed negligible bacterial growth at 100 μg/mL for S. aureus and E. coli, respectively. Moreover, the cell viability assay for herb ointment exhibited low cytotoxic activity at higher concentrations (100 μg/mL) in Vero cell lines. In this study, wound scratch assay showed a significant cell migration rate (90 ± 2%) in 3 days of incubation than the control (62 ± 2%).DiscussionAs a result, the biosurfactant-based nano-topical herb ointment revealed a low cytotoxic and higher cell migration capacity. Altogether, these findings highlighted the utility of this herb ointment in therapeutic applications such as wound healing.

Background: The use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) has been embedded in populations for decades. In this study, we aimed to determine the rate of their usage among inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients and their association with adherence to conventional therapies. Methods: In this cross sectional, survey-based study, IBD patients' (n=226) adherence and compliance were evaluated using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8. A control sample of 227 patients with other gastrointestinal diseases was included to compare trends of CAM use. Results: Crohn's disease represented 66.4% of those with IBD, with a mean age of 35 ± 13.0 years (54% males). The control group had either chronic viral hepatitis B, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Celiac disease, or other non-IBD diseases, with a mean age of 43.5 ± 16.8 years (55% males). Overall, 49% of patients reported using CAMs (54% in IBD group and 43% in the non-IBD group, P =0.024). Across both groups, the most used CAMs were honey (28%) and Zamzam water (19%). There was no significant association between the severity of the illness and use of CAMs. Patients who used CAMs had a lower adherence to conventional therapies vs. those who did not use CAMs (39% vs. 23%, P =0.038). Using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8, low adherence to medications was reported in 35% of the IBD group vs. 11% of non-IBD group (P = 0.01). Conclusion: In our population, patients with IBD are more likely to use CAMs and are less adherent to medications. Furthermore, the use of CAMs was associated with a lower adherence rate to conventional therapies. Consequently, further studies assessing the causes associated with the use of CAMs and nonadherence to conventional therapies should be explored and interventions designed to mitigate nonadherence.

Baharudin Abdullah,1 Amir Hamzah Abdul Latiff,2 Anura Michelle Manuel,3 Faizah Mohamed Jamli,4 Harvinder Singh Dalip Singh,5 Intan Hakimah Ismail,6 Jeevanan Jahendran,2 Jeyasakthy Saniasiaya,7 Kent Chee Keen Woo,8 Phaik Choo Khoo,9 Kuljit Singh,3 Nurashikin Mohammad,10 Sakinah Mohamad,1 Salina Husain,11 Ralph Mösges12,13 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia; 2Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; 3Prince Court Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; 4Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia; 5Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh, Perak; 6Department of Paediatrics, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia; 7Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; 8Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; 9Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), Selangor, Malaysia; 10Department of Internal Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia; 11Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; 12Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; 13ClinCompetence Cologne GmbH, Cologne, GermanyCorrespondence: Baharudin Abdullah, Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia, Tel +60 97676416, Fax +60 97676424, Email baharudin@usm.my; profbaha@gmail.comAbstract: The goal of allergic rhinitis (AR) management is to achieve satisfactory symptom control to ensure good quality of life. Most patients with AR are currently treated with pharmacotherapy. However, knowledge gaps on the use of pharmacotherapy still exist among physicians, particularly in the primary care setting, despite the availability of guideline recommendations. Furthermore, it is common for physicians in the secondary care setting to express uncertainty regarding the use of new combination therapies like intranasal corticosteroid plus antihistamine combinations. Inadequate treatment leads to significant reduction of quality of life that affects daily activities at home, work, and school. With these concerns in mind, a practical consensus statement was developed to complement existing guidelines on the rational use of pharmacotherapy in both the primary and secondary care settings.Keywords: allergic rhinitis, pharmacotherapy, consensus, primary care, secondary care, Malaysia

The properties of a conjugated copolymer (CP), poly[(9,9-Dioctyl-2,7-divinylenefluorenylene)-alt-co-(2-methoxy-5-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylene) (PDVF-co-MEH-PV), were investigated in the presence of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) using absorption, fluorescence, laser, and time-resolved spectroscopy. CPs are usually dissolved in low-polar solvents. Although GO does not dissolve well, rGO and PDVF-co-MEH-PV dissolve in chloroform due to their oxygen acceptor sites. Hence, we studied rGO/PDVF-co-MEH-PV (CP/rGO), performing all experiments and simulations in chloroform. We performed simulations on PDVF-co-MEH-PV, approximate GO, and rGO using time-dependent density-functional theory calculations to comprehend the molecular dynamics and interactions at the molecular level. The simulation polymer used a tail-truncated oligomer model with up to three monomer units. The simulation and experimental results were in agreement. Further, the PDVF-co-MEH-PV exhibited fluorescence, laser quenching, rGO-mediated laser blinking, and spectral broadening effects when GO and rGO concentrations increased. The experimental and simulation results were compared to provide a plausible mechanism of interaction between PDVF-co-MEH-PV and rGO. We observed that for lower concentrations of rGO, the interaction did not considerably decrease the amplified spontaneous emissions of PDVF-co-MEH-PV. However, the fluorescence of PDVF-co-MEH-PV was considerably quenched at higher concentrations of rGO. These results could be helpful for future applications, such as in sensors, solar cells, and optoelectronic device design. To demonstrate the sensor capability of these composites, a paper-based sensor was designed to detect ethanol and nitrotoluene. An instrumentation setup was proposed that is cheap, reusable, and multifunctional.

Proceeding from the saying of our God almighty on his book, the holy Qur'an: "Then ignite for me, O Hāmān, (a fire) upon the clay (From which bricks are made) and make for me a tower....". Therefore, this paper presents an investigation on, using calcined ball-clay (CBC) as mineral pozzolanic admixture for concrete production. CBC is obtained from calcination processes for local ball-clay at specified conditions. To evaluate ball-clay calcination process, various temperatures (600–900 ºC) and burning durations (2, 3 and 4 hours) are used and the optimum temperature and burning time for calcination are assessed by strength activity index at age of 28 days. The hardened properties development of concrete mixtures containing 0%, 10%, 15% and 20% CBC as cement partial replacement are analysed in terms of compressive strength at 7, 28, 90 and 180 days, water absorption, ultra-sonic pulse velocity and electrical resistivity. In addition, microstructure by XRD of the cement pastes incorporating CBC was studied. The results showed that the optimum calcination process to obtain CBC are carried out at temperature 800 °C for 4 hours. The replacement of cement by 10% of CBC is an optimal dosage for concrete mixtures since it achieved an increase of compressive strength by 28% as compared with control one. Therefore, adding CBC can lead to a beneficial utilization of natural local resources, which reduces energy consumption and minimizes CO2 footprint during the manufacturing of cement concrete, thus, concrete can become an eco-friendly and sustainable material.

This study compares the inhibitory activities of methanolic extraction of various plants including Artemisia pallens (MEAP), mangrove leaves like Rhizophora mangle (MERM), Avicennia marina (MEAM) and seaweeds such as Pandia povanica (MEPP), Sargassum tenerrimum (MEST) on the corrosion of mild steel (MS) coupons that were incubated on Pseudomonas stutzeri (P. stutzeri) SKR4 strain isolated from the cooling tower water (CTW). The activities of inhibitors are found using GCMS analysis and interactions between microbes and inhibitors were examined in the test for antibacterial activity, minimal inhibition concentration, biofilm formation assay. These all show an excellent inhibitory effect against P. stutzeri. The weight loss, impedance spectroscopy, and Tafel polarization tests used to validate the corrosion investigations show that the inhibitors MEAP-75, MERM-71, MEAM-69, MEPP-66 and MEST-63 % are effective at inhibiting corrosion at 25 ppm. According to Potentiodynamic polarization plots, these five inhibitors act as mixed-type inhibitors. The surface investigation of MS metals by FTIR, SEM, XRD to examine the biofilm surface and it revealed deep pitting corrosion in the bacterial system. In the conclusion, eco-friendly green inhibitors have controlled the biocorrosion in cooling tower water and are recommended for usage in industries as an alternative to environmentally hazardous inhibitors.

We present a 74-year-old woman with kyphosis and symptoms of pre/syncope. Heart catheterization revealed dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (DLVOTO) with Brockenbrough Braunwald response only when kyphotic posture was assumed. She had a positive response to metoprolol. DLVOTO is a challenging diagnosis in the absence of resting LVOTO. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner.)

Nur Saadah Mohamad,1 Sakinah Mohamad,1 Mohd Ezane Aziz,2 Baharudin Abdullah1 1Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, 16150, Malaysia; 2Department of Radiology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150, Kelantan, MalaysiaCorrespondence: Baharudin Abdullah, Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia, Tel +6097676416, Email baharudin@usm.myBackground: Atopy may not contribute directly to the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and could be a coexisting disease, but it may play a disease-modifying role in CRS. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of atopy on the incidence of osteitis in patients with CRS.Methods: A cross-sectional study at a tertiary center was conducted. Computed tomography of paranasal sinuses (CTPNS) of 75 CRS patients was analyzed. Skin prick test was used to determine the atopy among the CRS patients. The evaluation consisted of symptom score, Lund–Kennedy endoscopic score and CTPNS assessment by Lund Mackay (LM) staging system and Global Osteitis Scoring Scale (GOSS).Results: About 54.7% of CRS patients had atopy (n=41), and 64% (n=48) had osteitis changes. No significant difference (p> 0.05) was found for symptom and endoscopic scores in atopic and non-atopic CRS. Atopic and non-atopic CRS patients demonstrated comparable LM and GOSS scores (both p> 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that gender, nasal polyps and bronchial asthma were significantly associated with the incidence of osteitis. Significant correlation was found between LM and GOSS scores in atopic CRS (r=0.81, p< 0.05). Correspondingly, both scores were found to be significantly correlated in non-atopic CRS (r=0.74, p< 0.05).Conclusion: Atopic sensitization has no effect on the incidence and severity of osteitis in patients with CRS. The present study suggests that osteitis occurs independently from the atopic pathway.Keywords: chronic rhinosinusitis, osteitis, atopy, computed tomography, Lund Mackay, Global Osteitis Scoring Scale

RNA recombination in positive-strand RNA viruses is a molecular-genetic process, which permits the greatest evolution of the genome and may be essential to stabilizing the genome from the deleterious consequences of accumulated mutations. Enteroviruses represent a useful system to elucidate the details of this process. On the biochemical level, it is known that RNA recombination is catalyzed by the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase using a template-switching mechanism. For this mechanism to function in cells, the recombining genomes must be located in the same subcellular compartment. How a viral genome is trafficked to the site of genome replication and recombination, which is membrane associated and isolated from the cytoplasm, is not known. We hypothesized that genome translation was essential for colocalization of genomes for recombination. We show that complete inactivation of internal ribosome entry site (IRES)-mediated translation of a donor enteroviral genome enhanced recombination instead of impairing it. Recombination did not occur by a nonreplicative mechanism. Rather, sufficient translation of the nonstructural region of the genome occurred to support subsequent steps required for recombination. The noncanonical translation initiation factors, eIF2A and eIF2D, were required for IRES-independent translation. Our results support an eIF2A/eIF2D-dependent mechanism under conditions in which the eIF2-dependent mechanism is inactive. Detection of an IRES-independent mechanism for translation of the enterovirus genome provides an explanation for a variety of debated observations, including nonreplicative recombination and persistence of enteroviral RNA lacking an IRES. The existence of an eIF2A/eIF2D-dependent mechanism in enteroviruses predicts the existence of similar mechanisms in other viruses.

Background: Marine organisms are the potential contributors of novel bioactive molecules. Nevertheless, their biodiversity and the versatility of bioactive metabolites have not been fully explored. Hence, the aim of the present study was to investigate the potentials of gut associated bacteria from a marine crab for the production of novel antibacterial compound. Methods: Aerobic gut autochthonous bacteria isolated from marine crab (Lissocarinus orbicularis) collected from Pazhayar coastal area in Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu, India were screened for antibacterial activity. Optimization for bacterial growth and antimicrobial compound production, extraction, purification and characterization were studied. Results: In the present study, eight morphologically distinct colonies of L. orbicularis gut associated aerobic bacterial isolates (Iso1-Iso8) on Zobell marine agar plate were selected. Isolates were screened for antimicrobial activity against human bacterial pathogens such as Salmonella paratyphi, Vibrio cholera, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila and Listeria monocytogenes. On the basis of screening results, isolate 5 (Iso5) was selected as the most potential strain and identified as Paenibacillus polymyxa using biochemical and 16S rRNA sequencing methods. The sequence data was submitted to NCBI (Gene bank Accession No: MK583465). Optimization of P. polymyxa for growth and antimicrobial compound production revealed incubation period (36 h), agitation (150 rpm), pH 8.0, 35 °C, 2.5% salinity, 2% glucose and 1% yeast extract as carbon and nitrogen sources respectively were the ideal conditions and mass culture was done with these parameters. Antimicrobial compound from the cell free supernatant of mass culture medium was extracted using ethanol. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 16 μg/ml was observed against of both V. parahaemolyticus and V. cholerae. GC–MS analysis of the active ethanol fraction showed the presence of different components such as dodecane (96.72%), Tridecane (1.69%), Undecane, 2,6-dimethyl- (1.69%), Tetradecane (1.12%) and Dodecane, 2,6,11-trimethyl- (1.12%). Conclusion: The present study showed that the gut associated autochthonous bacteria of marine crabs are one of the potential sources of antibacterial compound. However, further studies are needed for the identification of the antimicrobial compound.

Background: The increasing azole drug resistance in fungal pathogens poses a pressing threat to global health care. The coexistence of drug-resistant Candida albicans with tuberculosis patients and the failure of several drugs to treat C. albicans infection extend hospital stay, economic burden, and death. The misuse or abuse of azole-derived antifungals, chronic use of TB drugs, different immune-suppressive drugs, and diseases like HIV, COVID-19, etc., have aggravated the situation. So it is vital to understand the molecular changes in drug-resistant genes to modify the treatment to design an alternative mechanism. Method: C. albicans isolated from chronic tuberculosis patients were screened for antifungal sensitivity studies using disk diffusion assay. The multidrug-resistant C. albicans were further screened for molecular-level changes in drug resistance using MDR1 gene sequencing and compared with Gen bank data of similar species using the BLAST tool. Results: The investigation proved that the isolated C. albicans from TB patients are significantly resistant to the action of six drugs. The molecular changes in MDR1 genes showed differences in seven nucleotide base pairs that interfered with the efflux pump.

Abstract Background As the COVID-19 pandemic spread worldwide, case reports and small series identified its association with an increasing number of medical conditions including a propensity for thrombotic complications. And since the nephrotic syndrome is also a thrombophilic state, its co-occurrence with the SARS-CoV-2 infection is likely to be associated with an even higher risk of thrombosis, particularly in the presence of known or unknown additional risk factors. Lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are the most common manifestations of COVID-19-associated hypercoagulable state with other venous or arterial sites being much less frequently involved. Although splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) has been reported to be 25 times less common than usual site venous thromboembolism (VTE) and rarely occurs in nephrotic patients, it can have catastrophic consequences. A small number of SVT cases have been reported in COVID-19 infected patients in spite of their number exceeding 180 million worldwide. Case presentation An unvaccinated young adult male with steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome (SDNS) who was in a complete nephrotic remission relapsed following contracting SARS-CoV-2 infection and developed abdominal pain and diarrhea. Abdominal US revealed portal vein thrombosis. The patient was anticoagulated, yet the SVT rapidly propagated to involve the spleno-mesenteric, intrahepatic and the right hepatic veins. In spite of mechanical thrombectomy, thrombolytics and anticoagulation, he developed mesenteric ischemia which progressed to gangrene leading to bowel resection and a complicated hospital course. Conclusion Our case highlights the potential for a catastrophic outcome when COVID-19 infection occurs in those with a concomitant hypercoagulable state and reminds us of the need for a careful assessment of abdominal symptoms in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients.

In this study, we investigate the effects of nitrogen and boron dopants on the properties of phenalene/phenalenyl systems based on the Hückel theory by using the Hueckel Molecular Orbital software. The dopants configurations are graphitic, pyridinic, and pyrrolic. The electronic configuration of bare phenalene confirms the delocalization of π electrons and the radical properties of the molecule, which is in good agreement with the results of previous studies. Dopant types and positions strongly affect the number of π electrons in the system, molecular orbital energy, total energy, average π-electron energy, and gap energy. The molecular energy level degeneracy strongly depends on the rotational symmetry of the system, in the order of graphitic, pyridinic, and pyrrolic. A preserved radical behavior and the number of π electrons are found for the pyridinic dopant type, while closed electronic configuration is observed for graphitic and pyrrolic types. A lower gap energy is typically found for B-doped phenalene compared to that for N-doped phenalene; this opens the possibility for the enhancement of photoluminescence intensity. This study, although qualitative, confirms the effects of dopants on the chemical and physical properties of phenalene/phenalenyl systems.

Abstract Background Pseudomonas stutzeri is a nonfluorescent denitrifying bacterium widely distributed in the environment, and it has also been isolated as an opportunistic pathogen from humans. It is a Gram-negative bacterium and a common inhabitant of soil and water. Case presentation We report the case of a 51-year-old arab gentleman who has systemic lupus erythematous complicated by lupus nephritis and underwent renal transplantation twice. He underwent mitral valve replacement and 4 years later was diagnosed with prosthetic valve endocarditis caused by Pseudomonas stutzeri. Conclusions Literature review was conducted and revealed that this pathogen may be of a particular medical relevance in immunocompromised patients. Our case proves that early infection and relapse despite optimal antibiotics course are possible outcomes of Pseudomonas stutzeri endocarditis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the second case of fulminant early prosthetic valve endocarditis occurring only 1 month post-cardiac surgery with relapse despite a complete antibiotics course.

Structurally interesting chromeno-quinolines were constructed via the cyclization reaction of O-propargylated naphthaldehyde and substituted anilines in good yields. We explored compound methyl-chromenoquinoline (MCQ) in detail for its optical properties using Time-dependent density-functional theory (TD-DFT) and experimental studies. The conjugated-polymer (CP) Poly[(9,9-dioctylfluorenyl-2,7-diyl)-co-(2,5-p-xylene)] or [(ADS145UV or PFOPX)] was studied as donor. The TD-DFT implied that MCQ is a fluorescent compound with well-defined highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) structure at −5.327 eV and −1.836 eV, respectively, with an energy gap of 3.49 eV in toluene captivity. The TD-DFT-based model and experimental study showed an energy gap of 3.326 eV and 3.351 eV, respectively, and the deviation was 0.025 eV. The experimental studies of MCQ showed solvent-dependent fluorescence peak shifted from 445 ± 2 nm to 538 ± 2 nm for dielectric constant ranging from 0.01 (hexane) to 10.2 (water). Despite the good optical properties, MCQ produced a weak laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) and not produce amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) to any pump energy of 3rd harmonic from Nd:YAG laser (5 ns, 355 nm). When PFOPX of concentration 500 nM (500 μL) was added to MCQ of 506 mM (3.5 mL) concentration, the LIF suddenly improved tenfold due to efficient Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) process. At the optimal concentration of PFOPX (670 nM) in MCQ solution, the spectrum changed dramatically. The spectrum has five peaks with a LIF in the background, where peaks around 393.5 nm and 417.3 nm attribute to the oligomer; 438.7 nm attributed to a combined fluorescence of PFOPX and MCQ; 466.4 nm, and 493.1 nm corresponding to MCQ. Analysis shows that the peaks at 440 nm (partly) and 493 nm were ASE from MCQ.

A series of solar cells (SCs) with methylammonium mixed halide perovskite active layers with a conjugated polymer (CP) poly[2-methoxy-5-(3,7-dimethyl-octyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene] and end-capped with dimethylphenyl (MDMO-PPV) as a hole transport material (HTM) was fabricated under the same experimental settings, and the performance characteristics of the individual cells were compared. For comparison purposes, we fabricated a perovskite solar cell (PSC) with a lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (Li-TFSI)-doped sprio-OMeTAD layer (LiTSO), which showed a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.68 %. The layered solar cell with a structure of TiO2, perovskite and MDMO-PPV layers showed a PCE of 5.32 % and a fill factor of 0.478. The heterojunction solar cell (HJSC) made with a perovskite and MDMO-PPV mix showed a PCE of 5.68 %. The Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) showed that in HJSC, the perovskite and CP were mixed well. However, they did not penetrate deeply into the TiO2 mesoporous layer, which would hinder electron transportation and thus cause efficiency loss. The HJSC structure was tested using different thicknesses of mesoporous TiO2 (m-TiO2). At an optimal m-TiO2 thickness, the blend of perovskite and MDMO-PPV infused up to 350 nm, thus improving the PCE to 7.438 % and retaining 91 % performance even after 4 weeks of continuous operation. The perovskite/conjugated polymer blend also formed a small SC above the m-TiO2 layer, showing complete penetration of the perovskite into the m-TiO2 layer. Additionally, the formation of a pure perovskite layer on top of the TiO2/perovskite and MDMO-PPV covers neatly on top of the perovskite layer and serves as a protective layer as well as a hole transport layer. An additional layer of LiTSO on top of the HJSC further improved the PCE to 7.76 %. The use of a CP as the hole transport layer reduces the dependency on separate materials and improves the device’s stability. It could also pave the way for an easy minimalistic method for integrated, flexible power electronics that contain solar cells (perovskite/conjugated polymer), organic light-emitting diodes, and supercapacitors made of graphene.

In this study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized using Cucumis melo L. leaf extract via a green synthesis approach and their potential against diabetes and coccidiosis was tested under in vitro conditions. The phytochemical components in the leaf extract reacted with silver nitrate in solution and yielded C. melo-silver nanoparticles (Cm-AgNPs). The synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed via UV–visible spectroscopy by obtaining a peak at 440 nm. The nanoparticles were characterized by their morphology, crystallinity, and the presence of functional groups. In vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays were carried out at different concentrations in the range of 20 to 100 μg/mL of Cm-AgNPs. The Cm-AgNPs exhibited enzyme inhibitory activity in a concentration-dependent manner. As the concentration of Cm-AgNPs increased the inhibitory activities were also increased linearly and the highest inhibition was observed at 100 μg/mL. The effectiveness of Cm-AgNPs against Eimeria tenalla was assessed by an in vitro 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay using Madin–Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) cell lines. The results revealed that the viability of the oocysts and further sporulation were decreased with the increased concentration of Cm-AgNPs. The AgNPs synthesized from the C. melo leaf extract have shown promising potential against diabetes and coccidiosis, and they could be used in biomedical applications.

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is an abnormal reflux of the gastric content into the esophagus. In Saudi Arabia the GERD prevalence is not recently well studied. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease and associated factors among attendants of primary health care centers (PHCCs) at Abha city, Saudi Arabia. Method: A descriptive cross- sectional study was performed using GerdQ as diagnostic tool for the GERD. The GerdQ consisted of six questions. Four questions were about the positive GERD predictors. The other two questions were about the negative GERD predictors. The scoring of GerdQ relies on the frequency of GERD symptoms during the last seven days. Using stratified random sample technique a representative sample was slected from the study PHCCs taking into conmsideration the relative catchment population in each center among adult males and females attending the selected PHCCs for any reason. Results: The present study included 320 persons. The study showed a prevalence of GERD of 67.8%. The prevalence of GERD with high impact on daily life (HIDL) was found to be 50%. By multiple logistic regression (enter method) only four significant independent factors associated with GERD were identified; being unmarried (aOR = 1.85, 95% CI:1.02–3.23); smoking (aOR = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.41–5.98), fast food intake (OR = 1.28, 95% CI:1.01–1.71), and subjective perception of stress (OR = 3.0, 95% CI:1.68–5.26). Conclusions: GERD is a public health problem among adults in the region. Community level awareness programs are recommended. Healthcare providers must be aware of community perceptions and practices.

Introduction: Patient safety is a central principle of healthcare professional practice that requires a significant consideration within the teaching curricula; however, there is a lack of special courses that focus on patient safety concepts in an integrated way in many countries. This study aims to assess the knowledge of medical and pharmacy students regarding patient safety concepts. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Alfaisal University during the 2018–2019 school year. A survey consisting of 15 questions was designed with the help of the quality and patient safety department at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh (KFSHRC). The survey was validated and then electronically distributed to all students enrolled in the College of Medicine and College of Pharmacy. Results: A total of 304 (22%) of 1368 students completed the survey. The survey revealed that 51% of students had an acceptable understanding of the types of human error; however, 53% of students had little knowledge about the factors that lead to these errors and 61% did not know how to report an error. Many students (41%) reported being directly involved in an unsafe situation that may cause patient harm, such as a healthcare-related error, adverse event, or inconsistent care. Most students (90%) agreed that hiding errors to avoid further implications is unethical and reporting errors is the responsibility of every healthcare provider. Conclusion: Most Alfaisal University students understand the significance of patient safety education and understand the types of human errors, yet the causes of errors and the protocols for reporting them were not well understood by most students.

Background: In this study, a biologically active molecule, di-methyl flubendazole isolated from the extract of Carica papaya leaves confirmed by using GC–MS, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR analysis was applied to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The AgNPs with plant sources an alternative therapeutic agent for synthetic compound used in cancer chemotherapy. Methods: The AgNPs were characterized using UV, FT-IR, XRD, FESEM with EDX and TEM. The antibacterial effects of AgNPs were determined with agar well diffusion method. The MTT assay used to evaluate the inhibitory effect cell lines. The acridine orange and ethidium bromide and DAPI have used cell morphological effects. Results: The AgNPs were mono-crystalline and their size ranged from 7 to 22 nm. AgNPs showed good antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Studies on the antiproliferative potential of bioinspired AgNPs in cancer cell lines revealed that the antiproliferative effect was much stronger in HepG2 than in MCF-7 and A549 cell lines. Similarly, AgNPs exerted less cytotoxic activity in Vero cells (normal cells). AgNPs-treated cells showed necrosis, apoptotic morphology evidenced by cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing, cell decay, and necrosis. HepG2 cells treated with biosynthesized AgNPs exhibited a G0/G1 phase (52–53.37%) blockage. Compared to the control, AgNP-treated HepG2 cells showed elevated ®-actin levels; however, Bcl-2 was significantly down regulated in AgNP-treated cells, indicating the involvement of Bcl-2 in apoptosis. Conclusion: Overall, the fact that di-methyl flubendazole-based silver nanoparticles showed a novel and cost-effective natural antitumor and antibacterial agent.

The present study demonstrated microbial corrosion protection of MS 1010 on cooling tower water using plant-based inhibitors derived from methanolic extraction of dry mangrove leaves (R.mangle and A.marina), and its assessment of antibacterial activity against corrosive bacteria (B.megaterium) was investigated. FT-IR and GC–MS analyzed the inhibitors component and corrosion behavior of MS 1010 on cooling water, with and without inhibitors were analyzed by EIS and Tafel studies. GC–MS spectra confirmed the presence of Myo-Inositol, 4-C-methyl and chromene as major constituents presented on the R.mangle whereas Lupeol, trifluoroacetate and beta-amyrin compounds were found on the A.marina. In the cooling water, these two inhibitors demonstrated outstanding antibacterial activity and controlled biofilm growth. As plant-based inhibitors were used in cooling water systems, EIS data showed a significant increase in Rct value when compared to the control system. Tafel plot indicates inhibitors have mixed inhibitory effects and for the systems with and without inhibitors, the icorr value was 1.5649A and 2.0875A, respectively. At the optimal dose of 25 ppm, the inhibitory efficiency of MERM and MEAM was 81% and 80%, respectively. The overall discussion reveals that inhibitor substances can be absorbed on the metal surface and then act as a dual role in inhibiting corrosive bacterial growth and barrier to the corrosion process in the cooling water system.

We report the design of flexible, inexpensive, enduring, and efficient composite scintillation based on polystyrene (PS)/blue-emitting conjugated oligomer (CO)/ZnO nanoparticles. The oligomer utilized was 1,4-bis(9-ethyl-3-carbazo-vinylene)-9,9-dihexyl-fluorene (ADS086BE or BECV-DHF). Polystyrene was used as a matrix, and ZnO NPs were used as γ-ray stoppers. The formation of blends was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and EDS. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images showed micron-sized bun (nearly square)-shaped domains, noodle-like structures, and submicron-sized domains with square-shaped nanosized domains for PS, PS/BECV-DHF, and PS/BECV-DHF/ZnO scintillator samples. The optical properties show that PS/BECV-DHF and PS/BECV-DHF/ZnO had absorption peaks at 350 and 375 nm and fluorescence peaks at 455 nm and 475 nm, respectively. The fabricated scintillators were coupled to the R6094 Hamamatsu Photomultiplier and gamma data acquisition system based on a multichannel analyzer (MCA). Gamma spectra were measured via three gamma-ray sources, Am-241, Cs-137 and Co-60. The results show better scintillation counting in the fabricated PS/BECV-DHF/ZnO than PS/BECV-DHF and the PS sample reference samples.

Abstract Background Shape memory polymers are materials that are manufactured in a certain shape, can be stored in a temporary deformed shape, and then return to – or remember – their original shape upon exposure to external stimuli such as temperature and moisture. This property lends itself to application in endovascular medical devices. Peripheral vasculature embolisation devices incorporating this novel technology have become commercially available and this case series, where the data were collected as part of a post market registry, outlines initial clinical experience with these novel devices. Results Eight cases are described in this series. The disease state/conditions for which embolisation was indicated were right common iliac artery aneurysms (n = 3), a type II endoleak into the thoracic aorta following thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (n = 1), a left inferior gluteal artery aneurysm (n = 1), left internal iliac artery aneurysms (n = 2), and a case of splenomegaly, where splenectomy was planned after the embolisation procedure (n = 1). Target arteries were 5–10 mm in diameter. In each case, at least one IMPEDE Embolization Plug (IMP-Device) of an appropriate diameter was used. All procedures were technically successful and target vessel thrombosis was achieved in all cases. Follow-up imaging available during the 45–90-day data collection timeframe showed sustained vessel occlusion. This case series includes examples of situations commonly encountered when embolising the peripheral vasculature, namely, the use of one or multiple devices in a single vessel and in combination with the use of other embolic devices (e.g., microcoils, gelatin sponge, and PVA particles) in the same case. There were no adverse events related to the specific use of the device. Conclusions This small series illustrates the safety and efficacy of this novel sponge-based embolic device for the embolisation of small and medium sized arteries and further experience will demonstrate the utility of the shape memory polymer devices.

Titanium alloys, particularly Ti6Al4V, are commonly used in biomedical applications. However, the inclusion of aluminum (Al) and vanadium (V) in this alloy can cause cytotoxic effects in the human body, resulting in Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. This study compares the performance of biocompatible alloys containing non-toxic elements, such as tin (Sn) and niobium (Nb), which are considered safe for implantation. Two sets of alloys were selected, Ti5Sn and Ti5Sn5Nb, and their properties were compared to Ti6Al4V. First, the alloys were prepared using a power metallurgical technique. Then, their phase analysis, hardness, wear resistance, strength, and corrosion performance in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution were characterized. Optical microscopy was used to study the microstructure, XRD was used to identify phases, and electrochemical testing was conducted to assess the alloys’ anodic and cathodic characteristics. Nanoindentation techniques were used to analyze surface characteristics, such as elastic modulus, nano hardness, and wear resistance. The results showed the alloys containing Nb and Sn had lower corrosion rates in SBF solution compared to Al-containing alloys. Moreover, Nb-containing alloys exhibited the highest hardness, 72% higher than Al-containing alloys. The corrosion-resistant properties of the alloys containing Nb and Sn were higher than those without Nb or Sn, suggesting they may be ideal for orthopedic implants in humans.

Alkaptonuria is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder. It is characterized by the accumulation of homogentisic acid in the body due to a lack of enzymes that degrade it. Over time, it results in joint degeneration and eventually leads to ochronosis. Ochronosis refers to bluish-black discoloration of connective and other tissues within the body. In this study, we present 5 distinct cases diagnosed with alkaptonuria. They have undergone 8 total joint replacement surgeries (4 hips and 4 knees) within 8 years (2010-2018). All patients had an excellent outcome over several years. The follow-up period ranged from 2 to 10 years. Although none of the presented cases had intraoperative or postoperative adverse sequelae, we must take care when dealing with patients with ochronotic arthropathy. They carry a higher risk of complications than other patients with osteoarthritis disease. These complications include fractures due to fragile bone quality, muscle or tendon rupture, joint instability, and anesthesia-related complications. Total joint arthroplasty is a valid and safe option in the management of hip and knee ochronotic arthropathy.