Search

Abstract The core and surface structure and magnetic properties of mechano synthesized LaFeO3 nanoparticles (30–40 nm), their Eu3+-doped (La0.70Eu0.30FeO3), and Eu3+/Cr3+ co-doped (La0.70Eu0.30Fe0.95Cr0.05O3) variants are reported. Doping results in a transition from the O′-type to the O-type distorted structure. Traces of reactants, intermediate phases, and a small amount of Eu2+ ions were detected on the surfaces of the nanoparticles. The nanoparticles consist of antiferromagnetic cores flanked by ferromagnetic shells. The Eu3+ dopant ions enhance the magnetization values relative to those of the pristine nanoparticles and result in magnetic susceptibilities compatible with the presence of Eu3+ van Vleck paramagnetism of spin–orbit coupling constant (λ = 363 cm−1) and a low temperature Curie–Weiss like behavior associated with the minority Eu2+ ions. Anomalous temperature-dependent magnetic hardening due to competing magnetic anisotropy and magnetoelectric coupling effects together with a temperature-dependent dopant-sensitive exchange bias, caused by thermally activated spin reversals at the core of the nanoparticles, were observed.

ABSTRACT Hymenolepis nana is a common intestinal tapeworm that affects humans. Drugs, including praziquantel (PZQ), are essential for managing this infection. Natural products are now considered as an alternative agent to control hymenolepiasis. Three doses of the herb Ferula asafetida (FAH) (100-150-200 mg/ml) were used to assess the appropriate dose and right time to eliminate H. nana. It was found that 150 mg/ml gives no movement in 5 min and is an appropriate dose affecting H. nana. This study showed that FAH completely controls mature worms. Treatment with FAH induced a significant reduction in worm burden and complete healing after 14 days relative to a single dose PZQ drug. Moreover, histological studies for the infected-treated mice with FAH demonstrated improvement in the intestinal tissue and less accumulation of inflammation relative to those treated with PZQ. In addition, the cestodal infection significantly upregulated the inflammatory cytokines. This increase in mRNA expression of TNF-��, iNOS, and IL-2 was 6.80, 5.65, and 8.95-fold, respectively, which significantly downregulated upon treatment. Collectively, F. asafetida is a promising medicinal plant with anti-cestodal and anti-inflammatory activities and could be used for the treatment of hymenolepiasis.

This experiment aimed to investigate changes, in the structural-functional aspects of the pineal and pituitary glands as well as the ovary and uterus, that might associate with trypanosomiasis induced by T. evansi in female rabbit. The ovarian and uterine response to the luteinizing hormone-like activity (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, HCG) was also tested. Trypanosomiasis did not cause significant changes in body, ovarian and uterine weights. There were degenerative changes in the structural-functional picture of the studied organs. T. evansi resulted in decreased response of the ovaries and uteri to HCG. The direct and indirect effects, including somatic and autoantibodies production, of this species of trypanosomes might be responsible for the reported findings.

ABSTRACT Genus Eimeria is a group of obligate Protista parasites within phylum Apicomplexa that causes a major threat to animal production. Little information is available about the coccidia of pigeons. This study was undertaken to study experimental infection in domesticated pigeons, its clinical signs, and pathological interpretation due to Eimeria species. Eimeria labbeana-like oocysts were used as a model parasite for experimental infection of pigeons. Twenty pigeons were brought and examined for 7 days to ensure they were coccidia-free. Five pigeons were separated into parasite passage. The remaining pigeons were divided into a control group of five pigeons, and ten pigeons were infected with 3×104 E. labbeana-like oocysts. Infected pigeons showed ruffled feathers, greenish watery diarrhea, weakness, blood-tinged droppings, etc. Pre-patent and patent durations were five and fourteen days of oral inoculation of Eimeria. Oocysts shedding began on the 5th-day p.i. and peaked on the 8th-day p.i. There is a significant loss in body weight due to infection. Histopathological examination showed damage to intestinal mucosa with various Eimeria developmental stages in the duodenal of the small intestine. This study is considered basic information on the first detection of biology of Eimeria species infecting pigeons in Saudi Arabia.

The development of pharmacological methods to control oxidant stress manifestations in diabetes can be achieved using organic complex germanium compounds. One of the promising compounds is niacin-oxyethylenediphosphonategermanate (MIGU-4), which is an effective corrector of lipid metabolism and a stabilizer of the lipid layer of erythrocyte and hepatocyte membranes in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic model. The aim of the work is to determine the dynamics of the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPO) in the brain tissue, as well as the diene conjugate (DC) content, lipid hydroperoxides (LHP), reduced glutathione (GSH) in the liver mitochondria, the serum activities of aspartate and alanine aminotransferases (AST and ALT) in experimental diabetes mellitus with the correction using a complex compound of germanium with nicotinic acid – MIGU-4 and insulin, insulin alone as well as in comparison with effectiveness of vitamin E supplementation. Materials and methods. Diabetes was induced in male Wistar rats by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60.0 mg/kg). MIGU-4 was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of ED50 that was 25.0 mg/kg. Mitochondrial membranes were obtained by differential centrifugation of the liver tissue. In rats with confirmed diabetes, parameters of peroxidation and antioxidant protection were studied by generally accepted biochemical and biophysical methods. Results. Glucose levels were 29.4 % lower in rats treated with MIGU-4 (25.0 mg/kg) after 8 weeks of streptozotocin-induced diabetes than those in untreated diabetic rats (p < 0.05), while a decrease was 39.0 % (p < 0.05) upon insulin treatment, and 47.2 % (p < 0.05) – with combined use of the drugs. The MDA content in the brain tissue was 3.48 times higher than that in the control (p < 0.05). At the same time, the activities of SOD and CAT were decreased by 46.4 % and 32.0 %, respectively, the activity of GPO was decreased by half (p < 0.05). In the liver mitochondria, the DC content exceeded that in the control by 53.5 % (p < 0.05), and the MDA and LHP levels were 2.48 times and 31.7 % higher (p < 0.05), respectively. AST activity was almost doubled, ALT activity was 5.48 times increased. Insulin and the biologically active substance MIGU-4 used alone exerted a moderate corrective effect. The combined use of the drugs caused definite therapeutic and preventive effects as the brain content of MDA was 2.4 times decreased, the activity of SOD, CAT and GPO was increased by 45.6 %, 35.2 % and 67.3 % (p < 0.05), respectively. In the liver mitochondria, the DC, MDA, and LHP contents were decreased by 41.0 %, 53.3 %, and 28.4 %, respectively, compared to those in rats with diabetes (p < 0.05). The activity of SOD and CAT as well as GSH content were increased by 2.7 times, 51.9 %, and 23.0 % (p < 0.05), respectively. AST and ALT activities were 42.2 % and 74.3 % (p < 0.05) reduced, respectively. The combined use of MIGU-4 (25.0 mg/kg) and vitamin E (250.0 mg/kg) caused a decrease in the brain MDA content by 70.1 % (p < 0.05) in experimental rats. The combination of MIGU-4 and vitamin E increased the activity of GPO by 58.3 % (p < 0.05) as compared to rats with diabetes, indicating cumulative effects of these drugs. Conclusions. The use of MIGU-4 prevents the occurrence of oxidant stress manifestations in the brain tissue and liver mitochondria in streptozotocin-induced diabetes. The corrective effect size of MIGU-4 (25.0 mg/kg) corresponds to that of vitamin E (250.0 mg/kg).

Background: Diabetes is accompanied by neurodegenerative changes in the retina. The determination of retinal function parameters under conditions of experimental diabetes may allow for the development of new approaches to pharmacological vision correction. Purpose: To assess changes in the metabolic (lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defence) and functional characteristics (electroretinography (ERG)) of the retina in the rat with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes, treated with niacin-oxy-ethylidene-diphosphonate germanate (MIGU-4) and a reference drug, diazepam. Material and Methods: Diabetes was induced intraperitoneally (i.p.) in Wistar male rats by streptozotocin (STZ 65 mg/kg). Four weeks thereafter, the rats received a two-week course of a daily dose of MIGU-4 (5.0 mg/kg or 25.0 mg/kg) or diazepam (0.5 mg/kg or 1.5 mg/kg). The electroretinogram (ERG) was obtained, the animals were euthanized and retinal malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity were determined. Results: In rats with untreated STZ-induced diabetes, the retinal MDA level was 3.71 times increased and CAT activity was 35% lower, compared to controls, whereas the SOD activity was half of the activity found in controls (р < 0.05). In diabetic animals treated with MIGU-4 i.p. at a 25.0-mg/kg daily dose, the retinal MDA level was 63.2% lower, whereas the CAT activity and SOD activity were 41.9% and 27.6%, respectively, higher, than in untreated diabetic rats (р < 0.05). In diabetic animals treated with diazepam i.p. at a 1.5-mg/kg daily dose, the retinal MDA level was 59.2% lower, whereas the CAT activity and SOD activity were 44.4% and 32.1%, respectively, higher, than in untreated diabetic rats (р < 0.05). In untreated diabetic rats, the ERG b-wave amplitude was 39.2% lower, ERG a-wave and b-wave latencies, 23.4% and 14.0%, respectively, higher, and the a-wave amplitude recovery rate, 38.8% lower than in controls (р < 0.05). The use of a 25.0-mg/kg daily dose of MIGU-4 resulted in a 29.7% and 33.9%, respectively, increase in the ERG b-wave amplitude and the a-wave amplitude recovery rate compared to untreated diabetic rats (р < 0.05). The use of a 1.5-mg/kg daily dose of diazepam resulted in a 25.0% and 30.0%, respectively, increase in the above ERG parameters compared to untreated diabetic rats (р < 0.05). In untreated diabetic rats, the number of squares crossed (SK) was 29.4% lower (р < 0.05); the number of central squares crossed (CSC), 52.1% lower (р < 0.05); the number of upright postures (UP), 34.2% lower; and the defecation bolus number, 32.4% higher than in controls (р < 0.05). After MIGU-4 (25-mg/kg) withdrawal, there were no more differences in SK, CSC, UP and defecation bolus numbers between treated diabetic rats and controls. In addition, the number of CSC was 4.27 times lower than in controls, and half of that in untreated diabetic animals (р < 0.05). In diabetic rats treated with diazepam, the number of UP was 2.56 times lower than in controls (р < 0.05), and 40.7% lower than in untreated diabetic rats (р < 0.05), whereas the defecation bolus number was 40.5% higher than in controls (р < 0.05). Conclusion: STZ-induced diabetes is accompanied by an impairment of the oxidant/ antioxidant balance in the retina with an increase in retinal MDA, decrease in retinal SOD and CAT activity, and ERG abnormalities such as reduced ERG amplitude and increased ERG latency. A course treatment with niacin-oxy-ethylidene-diphosphonate germanate (MIGU-4) i.p. at a daily dose of 25.0 mg/kg provides for a decrease in retinal MDA and an increase in retinal SOD and CAT activity and ERG wave amplitude The withdrawal of a two-week treatment with MIGU-4 i.p. at a daily dose of 25.0 mg/kg decreased open-field anxiety-like behaviors, whereas the withdrawal of a two-week treatment with diazepam i.p. at a daily dose of 1.5 mg/kg increased open-field anxiety-like behaviors. The corrective effect of treatment with MIGU-4 corresponds to the corrective effect of treatment with diazepam.

In situ measurements of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) when they pass over an interplanetary probe are one of the main ways we directly measure their properties. However, such in situ profiles are subject to several observational constraints that are still poorly understood. This work aims at quantifying one of them, namely, the aging effect, using a CME simulated with a three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamical code. The synthetic in situ profile and the instantaneous profile of the magnetic field strength differ more from each other when taken close to the Sun than far from it. Moreover, out of three properties we compute in this study (i.e., size, distortion parameter, and expansion speed), only the expansion speed shows a dependence of the aging as a function of distance. It is also the property that is the most impacted by the aging effect as it can amount to more than 100 km s ^−1 for CMEs observed closer than 0.15 au. This work calls for caution when deducing the expansion speed from CME profiles when they still are that close to the Sun since the aging effect can significantly impact the derived properties.

Background: Epilepsy is accompanied by neurodegenerative changes, particularly those in the retina. Elucidation of the mechanisms of retinal alterations in a model of epileptic syndrome may allow for the development of new approaches to pharmacological vision correction. Purpose: To assess the morphological characteristics of the retina, particularly treated with niacin oxy-ethylidene phosphonate germinate (MIGU-4), in the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced kindling model of chronic epileptic syndrome. Material and Methods: PTZ was administered in Wistar male rats intraperitoneally (i.p.) at a daily dose of 35.0 mg/kg for 21 days. Rats with fully-developed generalized seizures were treated with MIGU-4 ip at a daily dose of 5.0 mg/kg or 25.0 mg/kg for 28 days. Thereafter, the animals were euthanized, their globes were enucleated, and retinal sections were prepared and stained with hematoxylin and eosin for morphological examination. Results: Cell density in the retinal ganglion cell layer was 2.14 times lower, and in the inner nuclear layer and outer nuclear layer, 41.0% and 19.0%, respectively, lower for the rats with fully developed kindled seizures than for controls (р < 0.05). In the presence of treatment with MIGU-4 ip at a daily dose of 25.0 mg/kg, cell density in the retinal ganglion cell layer and in the inner nuclear layer was 38% and 30.5%, respectively, higher than for controls (р < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the cell density in the outer nuclear layer between rats treated with MIGU-4 ip at a daily dose of 5 mg/kg or 25.0 mg/kg and controls (р > 0.05). Conclusion: The PTZ-induced kindling model of chronic epileptic syndrome is accompanied by degenerative changes in the eye. A course of treatment with MIGU-4 causes neuroptotective effects in a model of PTZ-induced retinopathy.

Food banks play an important role in sustainability (saving food-reducing waste), economy, and social cohesion. Investment in food banks supports compassion, generosity, solidarity, and hospitality. The objective of this study is to demonstrate how remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) could be used to address social and environmental problems such as food banks. In many cases data about socioeconomic is gathered using sample qualitative surveys/interviews and this lacks spatial reference. Moreover, even this data may not be available for researchers in the same way as in this study. Remote sensing was found as an effective tool and proxy to extract socioeconomic indicators such as size of building, distance between houses, streets width, and scarcity of trees/greenness (vegetative indicator). The indicators together with GIS multi-criteria and weighted overlay were used to find suitable food bank locations. The research aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals number 2, 11, and 12. Beneficiaries of this study may include charitable organizations, food producers/consumers (restaurants, hotels, individuals), and environmental departments (water, energy, waste). The methodology used in this study could be adopted by other researchers around the globe.

Abstract Background Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive malignancy, surgery being the only potentially curative treatment. The systemic inflammatory response is an important factor in the development of cancer. There is still controversy regarding its role in pancreatic cancer. Methods Our study is a retrospective observational cohort study. We included patients diagnosed with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), who underwent surgical resection in our hospital, between January 2012 and December 2019. We gathered information from preoperative and postoperative blood tests. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (LMR), prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) were determined. Results We included 312 patients. All the immune-inflammatory scores assessed significantly changed after the surgery. The impact on overall survival of these markers showed that only some of the postoperative scores predicted survival: high PLR had a negative prognostic impact, while high lymphocyte and PNI values had a positive effect on overall survival. Discussion The circulating immune cells and their values integrated in the assessed prognostic scores suffer statistically significant changes after curative pancreatic surgery. Only the postoperative values of lymphocyte count, PLR, and PNI seem to influence the overall survival in PDAC. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov–identifier NCT05025371 .

Abstract Background The goal of this study was to investigate the prevalence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase production in Enterobacterales isolated from retail sheep meat in Zagazig, Egypt. Methods One hundred random samples of sheep meat were collected from different retail butcher shops (n = 5) in the city of Zagazig, Egypt. Bacterial isolates were identified by MALDI-TOF MS and screened for antibiotic susceptibility by disk diffusion; further genotypic characterization of β-lactamase-encoding genes was performed with Real-Time PCR. E. coli strains were phylotyped with the Clermont triplex PCR method. Results Of the total of 101 bacterial isolates recovered from retail sheep meat samples, 93 were E. coli, six were Enterobacter cloacae and two were Proteus mirabilis. As many as 17% of these 100 samples showed ESBL phenotypes, all were E. coli. The bla CTX-M genes were detected in seven isolates (six were bla CTX-M-15 and one was bla CTX-M-14), three isolates harboured bla TEM (all were blaTEM-one), and two carried genes of the bla SHV family (both were bla SHV-12). Eight E. coli isolates expressed ESBL phenotype but no bla TEM, bla SHV or bla CTX-M genes were detected by PCR. ESBL- positive E. coli isolates were nearly equally distributed over the commensal groups A/B1 and the virulent group D. Conclusion Nearly one in five sheep meat samples was contaminated with ESBL-E. coli. This further corroborates the potential role played by contaminated meat in the increasing resistance rates that have been reported worldwide.

Simultaneous in situ measurements of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), including both plasma and magnetic field, by two spacecraft in radial alignment have been extremely rare. Here, we report on one such CME measured by Solar Orbiter (SolO) and Wind on 2021 November 3–5, while the spacecraft were radially separated by a heliocentric distance of 0.13 au and angularly by only 2.2°. We focus on the magnetic cloud (MC) part of the CME. We find notable changes in the R and N magnetic field components and in the speed profiles inside the MC between SolO and Wind. We observe a greater speed at the spacecraft farther away from the Sun without any clear compression signatures. Since the spacecraft are close to each other and computing fast magnetosonic wave speed inside the MC, we rule out temporal evolution as the reason for the observed differences, suggesting that spatial variations over 2.2° of the MC structure are at the heart of the observed discrepancies. Moreover, using shock properties at SolO, we forecast an arrival time 2 hr 30 minutes too late for a shock that is just 5 hr 31 minutes away from Wind. Predicting the north–south component of the magnetic field at Wind from SolO measurements leads to a relative error of 55%. These results show that even angular separations as low as 2.2° (or 0.03 au in arc length) between spacecraft can have a large impact on the observed CME properties, which raises the issue of the resolutions of current CME models, potentially affecting our forecasting capabilities.

Summary: Background: The benefits of facilitating breastmilk feeding and close contact between mother and neonate (family-centred care; FCC) in the perinatal period are well-established. The aim of this study was to determine how the delivery of FCC practices were impacted for neonates born to mothers with perinatal SARS-CoV-2 infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Neonates born to mothers with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy were identified from the ‘EsPnIC Covid paEdiatric NeonaTal REgistry’ (EPICENTRE) multinational cohort between 10 March 2020 and 20 October 2021. The EPICENTRE cohort collected prospective data on FCC practices. Rooming-in and breastmilk feeding practice were the main outcomes, and factors influencing each were determined. Other outcomes included mother-baby physical contact prior to separation and the pattern of FCC components relative to time and local site guidelines. Findings: 692 mother-baby dyads (13 sites, 10 countries) were analysed. 27 (5%) neonates were positive for SARS-CoV-2 (14 (52%) asymptomatic). Most sites had policies that encouraged FCC during perinatal SARS-CoV-2 infection for most of the reporting period. 311 (46%) neonates roomed-in with their mother during the admission. Rooming-in increased over time from 23% in March–June 2020 to 74% in January–March 2021 (boreal season). 330 (93%) of the 369 separated neonates had no FCC physical contact with their mother prior, and 319 (86%) were asymptomatic. Maternal breastmilk was used for feeding in 354 (53%) neonates, increasing from 23% to 70% between March–June 2020 and January–March 2021. FCC was most impacted when mothers had symptomatic COVID-19 at birth. Interpretation: This is the largest report of global FCC practice during the COVID-19 pandemic to date. The COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted FCC despite low perinatal transmission rates. Fortunately, clinicians appear to have adapted to allow more FCC delivery as the COVID-19 pandemic progressed. Funding: The National Health and Medical Research Council (Australia): Grant ID 2008212 (DGT), Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation: Grant ID 2019–1155 (EJP), Victorian Government Operational Infrastructure Support Program.

Abstract Because of their immense economic, wellness, and remedial value, the seeds of palm (Phoenix dactylifera) were selected with synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) based on their properties for increasing the antibacterial efficacy of medical cotton. This study aimed to be contingent upon the characterisation of raw cotton fabrics treated by AgNPs with date seed extract (DSE) of P. dactylifera both individually and in combination and to investigate their antibacterial activity against various human pathogens. The prepared cotton materials with the synthesized AgNPs and/or DSE were described by both X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). At the same time, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were employed to determine the bioactive components in the aqueous date seed extract. The greater antibacterial activity was recorded by cotton treated with DSE and AgNPs mix, in which inhibition zones of all treatments were against Escherichia coli (8 cm), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (2.33-5.87cm) and Bacillus subtilis (2.17-4.63 cm), respectively. Overall, these findings indicate that treated cotton fabrics with synthesised AgNPs and DSE may be widely applied in various potential biological and medical applications, which could enhance environmental sustainability in closed production and consumption.

The Western Rif is a rural area characterized by rock extraction and agriculture. As a result, the surface of the land in the region is exposed to different sources of contamination which alters the quality of the soil. Leaching of the soil and runoff to surface water may impact the quality of surface water used by local people. A mapping of the land use by GIS of an area located at the level of the western Rif was carried out then an analysis of the interactions between the uses of the land; the practices, the quality of the surface layer of the soil and the quality of the water were made. Thanks to the processing of satellite images and to samples on the ground and assays of the physic-chemical parameters of soils and water (T °, pH, MES, turbidity, Nitrate, nitrite, phosphorus, nitrogen, etc.). The results of these analyzes revealed that these activities lead to an alteration in the quality of the surface layer of the soil, its characterization of which changes depending on the land use. Surface water is endowed with the components identified in the soil. This reveals that land use has generally negative physical and chemical impacts on surface waters.

The spin angular momentum and the extrinsic orbital angular momentum of light are associated with the polarization of light and the light propagation trajectory, respectively. Those momenta are interdependent not only in an inhomogeneous or anisotropic medium but even in free space. This interaction is called the spin-orbit interaction of light. The effects of the spin-orbit interaction of light manifest themselves in a small transverse shift of the beam field longitudinal component from the beam propagation axis in the waist region under the circular polarization sign change. They can be observed both for Gaussian beams and for structured beams. The effects of the spin-orbit interaction of light should be taken into account when nanophotonics devices are created, but the detailed investigation of the effect had not been performed yet due to the low intensity noise image of the beam waist. Precise measurements of the focal waist centerline are needed to determine the transverse shift of the beam field longitudinal component of the asymmetric converging beam's waist under the circular polarization sign change. We propose methods for determining the transverse and longitudinal positions of the beam waist. Computer image processing methods made it possible to obtain the value of the beam waist's transverse position with an accuracy of 0.1 mkm. These methods will allow further testing of the shifts' theoretical predictions, the values of which are the order of 1 mkm. The results obtained can also be used for laser processing of materials by polarized light and precise positioning of the beam's focal spot at a surface.

Although many issues about the use of transcripts for studying classroom interactions have been addressed in other studies, little attention has been given to the use of transcripts to study student teachers' classroom interactions. To achieve a deeper understanding of student teachers' perspectives and permit the formulation of a more appropriate framework, it is crucial to hear from student teachers and investigate their experiences about the use of transcripts. Therefore, in the study reported on here we used 7 focus-group interviews of approximately 6 Saudi EFL (English as a foreign language) student teachers in each group to investigate their perceptions on the use of transcripts for studying their classroom interactions. The data were thematically analysed. Three themes that represented the participants' experiences of using transcripts to study their classroom interactions emerged: using the transcript analysis, learning from the transcript analysis, and committing to using the transcript analysis. The findings reveal that most participants felt they had autonomy in using transcripts to study their classroom interactions, but experienced some challenges. Most students were determined to change their classroom interaction based on their analyses of classroom interactions but only a few demonstrated the determination to continue using the transcript analysis approach.

Abstract Cloning, through somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), has the potential for a large expansion of genetically favorable traits in a population in a relatively short term. In the present study we aimed to produce multiple cloned camels from racing, show and dairy exemplars. We compared several parameters including oocyte source, donor cell and breed differences, transfer methods, embryo formation and pregnancy rates and maintenance following SCNT. We successfully achieved 47 pregnancies, 28 births and 19 cloned offspring who are at present healthy and have developed normally. Here we report cloned camels from surgical embryo transfer and correlate blastocyst formation rates with the ability to achieve pregnancies. We found no difference in the parameters affecting production of clones by camel breed, and show clear differences on oocyte source in cloning outcomes. Taken together we demonstrate that large scale cloning of camels is possible and that further improvements can be achieved.

The finding of a partially preserved elk skeleton from the Bavarian Alps is reported. Remnants of an adult male were found, together with skeletal elements of juvenile moose calves, at the base of a talus cone in the pit cave Stiefelschacht, next to Lenggries (southern Germany). The adult's bones exhibited anthropogenic traces like cut marks and were radiocarbon-dated to the Late Iron Age. A projectile hole in the left shoulder blade and cut marks on the bones are indicative of hunting and meat usage. The elk remains were associated with several wild and domestic species such as ungulates and hare but were not, however, accompanied by archaeological artefacts. Other archaeological sites of the Late Iron Age are so far not known within a distance of less than 30 km to the Stiefelschacht. While the presence of elk during prehistoric times in the Alps has already been known before, the finds and the location are unique in that they are the first evidence of elk hunting during the Late Iron Age in the northern Alps.

Introduction: Thyroid disease is the second most common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. The debate continues which TSH levels need to be considered as a reflection of subclinical hypothyroidism in pregnancy. Our aim was to find out if variations in the level of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in early pregnancy of women not known to have thyroid disease or anti-thyroid antibodies were linked to different fetomaternal outcomes. Materials and Methods: Retrospective comparative study that compared group 1 (TSH level 0.1-1.99 mIU/L) and group 2 (TSH level 2.0-4 mIU/L). Each group was further subdivided into primigravidae and multipara with a total of 1527 pregnant women included in the study. Results: The body mass index (BMI), was statistically higher in primiparous women in group 2 (P2) than primiparous in group 1 (P1), (mean BMI 28.0 vs. 26.9, respectively, P value 0.014). The odds ratio of miscarriage in the primigravidae in group 2 was 1.24. This was not statistically significant (95% confidence interval; 0.42-3.63). The miscarriage rate was not also statistically different between multipara (odds ratio 1.04, 95% CI 0.6-1.7). For the primigravid groups, the odds of developing gestational diabetes mellitus was significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1 (Odds Ratio = 2.6, 95% CI 1.2-5.4). This was not seen in multiparous women. This difference could be explained by the higher BMI in group 2. There was a significant difference in the mean arterial blood pressure in multipara between the 2 groups. Although the values of the mean blood pressure (85 and 84 mmHg) were close, the P-value of the t-test performed was 0.007 possibly due to the difference in variance and sample size of each group. There were no statistical difference in the mean gestational age at delivery, preterm birth, mode of delivery and birth weight of term and preterm deliveries. Conclusions: In singleton pregnancies of women without thyroid dysfunction and with negative anti-thyroid antibodies, variations of the TSH level in early pregnancy up to 4.0 mIU/L were not associated with a significant difference in most of the fetomaternal outcomes. TSH values between 2.0-4.0 mIU/L were found to be associated with gestational diabetes in primigravid women and higher mean arterial blood pressure in multiparous women.

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a Potential nephrotoxin that causes severe and prolonged chemical toxicity. Investigations have been accomplished on numerous species of genus Artemisia, but the plant Artemisia brevifolia has hardly been used in this respect. The present study was considered to ascertain the effects of “Artemisia brevifolia plant extract” against CCl4 prompted nephrotoxicity in male albino rats. Forty-eight male albino rats were allocated into eight groups containing 6 rats in each. Group I was the control group. Group II was given dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (1 ml/kg) orally. Group III was treated with dissolved CCl4 in olive oil (1 ml/kg). Group IV was given CCl4 + Silymarine. Group V and VI were administered with Artemisia brevifolia extract (150 and 300 mg/kg respectively) + CCl4. Group VII and VIII were provided with only 150 and 300 mg/kg extract of Artemisia brevifolia respectively. Results displayed that CCl4 administration significantly (p

Abstract Background The potentials of audit and feedback (AF) to improve healthcare are currently not exploited. To unlock the potentials of AF, this study focused on the process of making sense of audit data and translating data into actionable feedback by studying a specific AF-case: limiting antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This was done via audit and feedback of AMR prevention measures (APM) that are executed by healthcare workers (HCW) in their day-to-day contact with patients. This study’s aim was to counterbalance the current predominantly top-down, expert-driven audit and feedback approach for APM, with needs and expectations of HCW. Methods Qualitative semi-structured interviews were held with sixteen HCW (i.e. physicians, residents and nurses) from high-risk AMR departments at a regional hospital in The Netherlands. Deductive coding was succeeded by open and axial coding to establish main codes, subcodes and variations within codes. Results HCW demand insights from audits into all facets of APM in their working routines (i.e. diagnostics, treatment and infection control), preferably in the form of simple and actionable feedback that invites interdisciplinary discussions, so that substantiated actions for improvement can be implemented. AF should not be seen as an isolated ad-hoc intervention, but as a recurrent, long-term, and organic improvement strategy that balances the primary aims of HCW (i.e. improving quality and safety of care for individual patients and HCW) and AMR-experts (i.e. reducing the burden of AMR). Conclusions To unlock the learning and improvement potentials of audit and feedback, HCW’ and AMR-experts’ perspectives should be balanced throughout the whole AF-loop (incl. data collection, analysis, visualization, feedback and planning, implementing and monitoring actions). APM-AF should be flexible, so that both audit (incl. collecting and combining the right data in an efficient and transparent manner) and feedback (incl. persuasive and actionable feedback) can be tailored to the needs of various target groups. To balance HCW’ and AMR-experts’ perspectives a participatory holistic AF development approach is advocated.

Background: Thrombocytopenia is seen in up to 12% of pregnancies. Most cases are due to benign gestational thrombocytopenia and have no adverse effects. It can, however, be due to underlying serious causes and can lead to adverse maternal and perinatal consequences. Objective: To discover the prevalence and causes of thrombocytopenia and the impact of its severity on feto-maternal outcome. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective comparative study. Thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet count less than 150×109/L detected any time after 24 weeks gestation and averaged during prenatal visits. All thrombocytopenic pregnant patients who completed 24 weeks of gestation were included. Cases were then divided into mild (group 1, platelet count between 70 and 150×109/L) and moderate to severe (group 2, platelet count less than 70×109/L) thrombocytopenia. Results: The prevalence of thrombocytopenia in pregnant women was 7.20%. Benign gestational thrombocytopenia (BGT) accounted for 78.53%, with idiopathic (immune) thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) accounting for 1.93%, pre-eclamptic toxaemia (PET)/HELLP syndrome accounting for 7.41%, drugs 7.23%, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with or without antiphospholipid antibodies (APA) 0.84%, and various maternal diseases 4.04%. Compared with mild thrombocytopenic pregnant women (group 1), moderate to severe thrombocytopenic women (group 2) were at a significantly greater risk of caesarean section, antepartum hemorrhage (APH), postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), wound haematoma, intrauterine fetal death (IUFD), preterm delivery, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Conclusion: Thrombocytopenia is prevalent in this obstetric population with various obstetric and nonobstetric causes. The consequences of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy are mostly benign, but moderate to severe thrombocytopenia was associated with adverse obstetric and perinatal outcomes. This was due to the nature and severity of the underling maternal diseases and their medication. The authors recommend studying prospectively each of these thrombocytopenia-induced diseases in pregnancy.

Anthropogenic activities, urban and industrial wastewaters, and the usual disintegration of rock from physical, chemical, and biological stresses are the main cause of heavy metals in seawater and sediments worldwide. Five different sampling locations were selected after an initial survey of the Dammam region Seawater study area, and sediment samples were procured in triplicate from each location to assess the level of selected heavy metals pollutions in the Arabian Gulf, Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Be, Cr, Ni, Cu, As, Se, Ag, Cd, Pb, Hg, Co, Zn, Fe, Mn, Sr, and Mo were detected using “inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS).” The pH ranges from 7.91 ± 0.26–8.22 ± 0.38 in stations 4 and 3, respectively. Surface seawater's electrical conductivity values ranged from 71788 ± 28.52 to 75680 ± 42.92 µS/cm at stations 4 and 3. The minimum and maximum concentration of total dissolved solid was observed as 49524 ± 50.25 and 54786 ± 66.95 mgL-1 in sites 4 and 3, respectively. The level of these metals fluctuated among the sampling sites. The highest concentration of these heavy metals was recorded from sampling site 4 and minimum in location 1. The average level of these metals in water samples were recorded Sr > Cu > Se > Zn > As > Mn > Fe > Ni > Mo > Hg > Co > Cr > Ag > Cd > Pb and Be, respectively. The average level of these metals in sediment samples were recorded Fe > Sr > Ni > Mn > Cu > Cr > Zn > Pb > Ag > As > Mo > Co > Se > Hg > Be and Cd, respectively. It has been concluded that the concentration of As, Hg, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, and Sr was high, which is alarming, particularly in the Dammam area.

In situ measurements from spacecraft typically provide a time series at a single location through coronal mass ejections (CMEs), and they have been one of the main methods to investigate CMEs. The CME properties derived from these in situ measurements are affected by temporal changes that occur as the CME passes over the spacecraft, such as radial expansion and aging, as well as spatial variations within a CME. This study uses multispacecraft measurements of the same CME at close separations to investigate both the spatial variability (how different a CME profile is when probed by two spacecraft close to each other) and the so-called aging effect (the effect of the time evolution on in situ properties). We compile a database of 19 events from the past 4 decades measured by two spacecraft with a radial separation of

In a high-energy fragmentation experiment at GSI an I=π(6+) isomer and its γ-decay are identified in 102Sn, the two-neutron neighbour of the doubly-magic 100Sn. Its half-life is measured to be T=1/2367(11) ns. The possible existence of further isomers is discussed in the framework of large-scale shell model (LSSM) calculations including up to five particle-hole excitations of the 100Sn core. From the precise B(E2; 6+→4+) strength and the recently remeasured value for B(E2; 8+→6+) in the two-proton hole neighbour 98Cd effective E2 polarization charges for protons and neutrons were inferred including LSSM corrections within the full N=4 0ħω space. The results are discussed in comparison to predicted and empirically determined effective operators.

The issue of male sexual dysfunction arises due to numerous complications linked with sperm motility, imbalance of antioxidant enzymes and hormonal levels. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is widely used as a standard toxin to induce chemical injury and toxicity. A lot of research has been performed on many species of the genus Nepeta in vitro and in vivo but the plant Nepeta paulsenii have been rarely used in this aspect. The current research was designed to explore the impacts of methanolic extract of the Nepeta paulsenii plant on CCl4 induced testicular impairment in male albino rats. Forty-eight rats were distributed equally into 8 groups; Control, Vehicle control, CCl4 treated (1 ml/kg), CCl4 + Silymarine treated, CCl4 + Nepeta paulsenii (200 mg/kg) treated, CCl4 + Nepeta paulsenii (400 mg/kg), Nepeta paulsenii (200 mg/kg) and Nepeta paulsenii (400 mg/kg) treated. Blood and testicles were obtained and analyzed. To check antioxidant enzymes, hormonal concentrations, daily sperm production (DSP), protein content and histopathology various analyses were performed. CCl4 exposure resulted in adverse morphological changes and significant (p

Field isolates of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) were subjected to polypeptide analysis using SDS-PAGE. On electrophoresis the NDV proteins were settled into several peptide components related to structural elements of the virus. The field isolates of NDV were recovered from different outbreaks in commercial chicken flocks. The virus grew well into 9th day old embryonated chicken eggs. The presence of virus in harvested allantoic fluids was assessed by Haemagglutination Test (HA). The HA titer of virus ranged from 1:512 to 1:1024. All the field isolates were purified by chloroform extraction method. Same quantities of samples were loaded on 12.5% discontinuous SDS-PAGE system. There were 6 to 13 polypeptides recorded with a molecular weight ranged from 12 KDa to 160 KDa. The results of SDS-PAGE denoted that the indigenous isolates of NDV are almost identical and comparable with vaccines. SDS-PAGE, using 12.5 percent gel is a simple, economical, and easy way for the characterization of NDV and other viruses. Furthermore, the potency of the vaccines can easily be checked through this technique and comparison can be made between field and vaccine ND viruses. It is recommended that more work should be done at the molecular level of local isolates of NDV to confirm the molecular nature of these isolates. Keywords: Newcastle disease virus, Chicken, SDS-PAGE, Molecular weights

Abstract Background Cross-border healthcare may promote the spread of multidrug-resistant microorganisms (MDRO) and is challenging due to heterogeneous antimicrobial resistance (AMR) prevention measures (APM). The aim of this article is to compare healthcare workers (HCW) from Germany (DE) and The Netherlands (NL) on how they perceive and experience AMR and APM, which is important for safe patient exchange and effective cross-border APM cooperation. Methods A survey was conducted amongst HCW (n = 574) in hospitals in DE (n = 305) and NL (n = 269), using an online self-administered survey between June 2017 and July 2018. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to analyse differences between answers of German and Dutch physicians (n = 177) and German and Dutch nurses (n = 397) on 5-point Likert Items and Scales. Results Similarities between DE and NL were a high awareness about the AMR problem and the perception that the possibility to cope with AMR is limited (30% respondents perceive their contribution to limit AMR as insufficient). Especially Dutch nurses scored significantly lower than German nurses on their contribution to limit AMR (means 2.6 vs. 3.1, p ≤ 0.001). German HCW were more optimistic about their potential role in coping with AMR (p ≤ 0.001), and scored higher on feeling sufficiently equipped to perform APM (p ≤ 0.003), although the mean scores did not differ much between German and Dutch respondents. Conclusions Although both German and Dutch HCW are aware of the AMR problem, they should be more empowered to contribute to limiting AMR through APM (i.e. screening diagnostics, infection diagnosis, treatment and infection control) in their daily working routines. The observed differences reflect differences in local, national and cross-border structures, and differences in needs of HCW, that need to be considered for safe patient exchange and effective cross-border APM.

The innovation in Digital Cultural Heritage (DCH) shows an emergence of innovative methods and initiatives for the generation of complex historical models to which are linked useful information for specialists of architecture, construction and engineering, but also user community interested in cultural heritage. This paper presents an improvement in Historic Building Information Modeling (HBIM) turned into models for mobile apps based on virtual reality (VR) addressed to enhance the communication of Architectural Heritage. The opportunity of a collaboration with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) experts under the coordination of the Carleton University in a training project aimed at improving documentation skills for conservation and preventive maintenance of built heritage provided the availability of an extraordinary richness of data and surveying on the Shaikh Isa Bin Ali House. The case study of the Shaikh Isa Bin Ali House is an outstanding example of Bahrain architecture and one of the oldest surviving building in Muharraq, listed under the UNESCO sites, now transformed in a Museum, where the visit does not allow to perceive the richness of the traditions of the constructions, beside the beautiful architecture. The building was the seat of the ruler of Bahrain from 1869 until his death in 1932 and represented an interesting response to local building materials and climate. This vernacular architecture solved not only the climate problems but combined the solution with beauty, physical and social functionality. This research carries out digital preservation through HBIM and switches to Cloud and VR platforms to allow users to enter a 3D immersive scene, using models as a vehicle of content information.

In this paper, A multiple input Multiple Output (MIMO) antenna using two Square Dielectric Resonators (SDRs) is introduced. The mutual coupling between the two SDRAs is reduced using two different methods; the first method is based on splitting a spiral slot in the ground plane, then filling the slot with dielectric material, "E.=2.2". The second method is based on inserting a copper parasitic element, having the same shape of the splitted Spiral, between the two SDRAs. The effect of replacing the copper parasitic element with Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) parasitic element "SOC12 doped long-MWCNT BP" is also studied. The antenna system is designed to operate at 6 GHz. The analysis and simulations are carried out using finite element method (FEM). The defected ground plane method gives a maximum isolation of l8dB at element spacing of 30mm (0.6λo), whereas the parasitic element method gives a maximum isolation of 42.5dB at the same element spacing.

The Gulf Cooperation Council, despite being the home for the world's largest oil and gas reserves and the highest per capita GDP, the Greenhouse Gas emissions from transportation remain poorly understood, and a missing piece in the puzzle of reduction policies. This paper uses Oman as a Gulf Cooperation Council Countries representative model, with a transport-fuel policy to reveal carbon growth from the transportation sector and to examine feasible paths for carbon-neutral mobility. This study uses IPCC guidelines and methodology of 2006 for the assessment of the GHG emissions trends of transportations modes from 2000 to 2015. The results of the analysis indicating that the share of transport emissions in Oman's total GHG emissions has doubled from 8.1% in 2000 to 16.3% in 2015. Transportation emissions became the third larger contributor to overall greenhouse gas emissions in Oman, after the oil and natural gas (26%) and energy industries (20%). Road transport is the biggest contributor to transport sector emissions, and their contribution to total transport emissions increased from 66% in 2000 to 92% in 2015. Carbon emission from the transportation sector will continue to grow steadily due to the high demand for transportation by a growing population. The cheap availability of fuel and affordable car costs, given the limited public transport, will persist as driving factors of the ongoing rise in carbon emission from transportation. Therefore, curbing emission from the Omani transportation system should take place in the socio-economic context of the country through phasing out the fuel subsidies system, developing a reliable public transport system, planning for the electrification of road transportation, and using rail for freight transportation.

The authors warn that, in the context of Yemen, the closure of humanitarian lifesaving programmes and shifting support toward health security, i.e. to support COVID-19 response, at the expense of primary health care support, will undermine existing health system strengthening efforts, worsen the humanitarian crisis and will accentuate the impact of COVID-19. The authors urge the international community and the Government of Yemen to carefully consider a more comprehensive approach to support Yemen’s COVID-19 response while maintaining, and strengthening, essential public health services.

Applications of planktonic foraminifera in Quaternary palaeoceanographic and palaeobiological studies require consistency in species identification. Yet the degree of taxonomic consistency among the practitioners and the effects of any potential deviations on community structure metrics have never been quantitatively assessed. Here we present the results of an experiment in taxonomic consistency involving 21 researchers representing a range of experience and taxonomic schools from around the world. Participants were asked to identify the same two sets of 300 specimens from a modern subtropical North Atlantic sample, one sieved at > 125 µm and one at > 150 µm. The identification was carried out either on actual specimens (slide test) or their digital images (digital test). The specimens were fixed so the identifications could be directly compared. In all tests, only between one-quarter and one-eighth of the specimens achieved absolute agreement. Therefore, the identifications across the participants were used to determine a consensus ID for each specimen. Since no strict consensus ( > 50 % agreement) could be achieved for 20–30 % of the specimens, we used a soft consensus based on the most common identification. The average percentage agreement relative to the consensus of the slide test was 77 % in the > 150 µm and 69 % in the > 125 µm test. These values were 7 % lower for the digital analyses. We find that taxonomic consistency is enhanced when researchers have been trained within a taxonomic school and when they regularly perform community analyses. There is an almost negligible effect of taxonomic inconsistency on sea surface temperature estimates based on transfer function conversion of the census counts, indicating the temperature signal in foraminiferal assemblages is correctly represented even if only two-thirds of the assemblage is consistently identified. The same does not apply to measures of diversity and community structure within the assemblage, and here we advise caution in using compound datasets for such studies. The decrease in the level of consistency when specimens are identified from digital images is significant and species-specific, with implications for the development of training sets for automated identification systems.

Candida blankii is a newly recognized human pathogen. Here we describe a case of bloodstream infection in a preterm neonate. The yeast was repeatedly isolated from blood, and its identity was confirmed by PCR sequencing of rDNA. Additionally, C. blankii DNA was detected directly in a blood sample. The isolates initially developed pink colonies on CHROMagar Candida which later turned into dark metallic blue similar to Candida tropicalis. Inaccurate identification by the VITEK 2 yeast identification system as Stephanoascus ciferrii and intrinsic resistance to fluconazole (MIC 12–16 μg/mL) underscore the need for its accurate identification for appropriate therapeutic management. Keywords: Azole resistance, Candida blankii, molecular identification, neonate

A joint analysis of the new satellite–terrestrial gravity field model with recent data on the crustal structure and seismic tomography was conducted to create an integrative model of the crust and upper mantle and to investigate the relation of the density structure and the isostatic state of the lithosphere to the seismicity of Egypt. We identified the distinct fragmentation of the lithosphere of Egypt in several blocks. This division is closely related to the seismicity patterns in this region. The relatively dense and strong lithosphere in the Nile Delta limits the seismic activity within this area, while earthquakes are mainly associated with the boundaries of this block. In the same way, the relatively strong lithosphere in the Isthmus of Suez and northern Mediterranean prevents the Gulf of Suez from opening further. The central part of Egypt is generally characterized by an increased density of the mantle, which extends to the Mediterranean at a depth of 100 km. This anomaly deepens southward to Gilf Kebir and eastward to the Eastern Desert. The average density of the crystalline crust is generally reduced in this zone, indicating the increased thickness of the upper crust. The low-density anomaly under the northern Red Sea is limited to 100–125 km, confirming the passive origin of the extension. Most of the earthquakes occur in the crust and uppermost mantle in this structure due to the hot and weak upper mantle underneath. Furthermore, an asymmetric lithosphere structure is observed across the northern Red Sea. The isostatic anomalies show the fragmentation of the crust of Sinai with the high-density central block. Strong variations in the isostatic anomalies are correlated with the high level of seismicity around Sinai. This tendency is also evident in the northern Red Sea, east of the Nile Valley, and in parts of the Western Desert.

Abstract Several unusual strong earthquakes occurred in central India along the Narmada-Son Lineament (NSL) zone, far from active plate boundaries. To understand the role of collisional processes in the origin of this seismicity, we develop a numerical thermomechanical model of shortening between the Indian Plate and Asia. We show that at the final stage of collision, the shortening rate of the high mountain areas slows. The continuing convergence of India and Asia triggers the initiation of a new collision zone in continental part of India. Various geological and geophysical observations indicate that the NSL is a weakest zone with northward thrusting of the thinner central Indian lithosphere underneath the thicker northern part of the Indian Plate. We hypothesize that the NSL was reactivated during the final stage of the India Asia convergence and it will possibly form a new mountain belt within the Indian continent.

This study aimed at conducting a molecular investigation of some virus isolates associated with tomato yellow leaf curl disease (TYLCD). Ten tomato samples exhibiting TYLCD are collected from fields and tunnel at certain tomato growing area in Al-Qadisiyah Province (El-HamzaEl-Sharqi district, Al-Sadeer and Al-Sunnia).. Begomoviruses are investigated by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using Deng a genus specific primer set in symptomatic samples. The amplified DNA fragments of expected size are sequenced, analyzed and compared to equivalent Gene Bank sequences using MEGA6 software. PCR technique using Deng primers could detect begomoviruses when amplified the 540 bp DNA fragments from 6 out of 10 symptomatic tomato samples. Sequence analysis shows that sequences obtained shared 96 - 99.5% nucleotide (nt) sequence identities with Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) equivalent Gene bank coat protein CP sequences from Cuba (AJ223505), USA (AY530931) and Israel (AB110217). Neighbor-Joining phylogenetic tree constructed from partial coat protein region confirmed the relatedness when grouped all sequences obtained to equivalent sequences belong to TYLCV from Gen Bank but not to other begomovirus species. Sequence comparison shows that TYLCV isolates are variable when share nt sequence 91-100% (approximated)to each other’s, which indicates that sequences isolated may belong to different TYLCV strains. The high nucleotide sequence identities suggests that TYLCV may have been introduced to Al-Qadisiyah Provence through infected plant materials, however full length sequence comparisons and biological assays are required to confirm this relatedness and resolve the possible origin of TYLCV isolates in Al-Qadisiyah Province..

In this paper, a Wilkinson power divider is modified using four-series delta-stub and folded stepped-impedance transmission line (FSITL) in order to achieve a reduced circuit size of 84% and fractional bandwidth of 116%. Series delta-stubs are used instead of open shunt stubs to obtain an optimum shifting frequency and wider bandwidth. Folded stepped-impedance transmission line (FSITL) is used to achieve reduced circuit size. The proposed power divider is fabricated using RT/duroid 5880 substrate with thickness of 0.38 mm. The dimension of the power divider is 13 mm × 6.5 mm. The proposed power divider has typical power division of -3 dB and insertion loss less than -1 dB, better than -13 dB of isolation, less than -10 dB return loss and phase imbalances less than 2° from 1.5 to 3 GHz. Both simulation and measurement results show a good agreement.

Nanotechnology is one of the most important techniques in recent days. Using Nano-additives to improve drilling fluids properties in order to meet the modern drilling process requirement is still being debated till date. In this study, three Nano-materials (magnesium oxide MgO, titanium dioxide TiO2 and Graphene) were used to improve the rheological and filtration properties as well as Clay Yield. The weight of Nano-materials were (0.02, 0.05, 0.2, 0.5, 0.8) gm. The results showed that the rheological properties were the same with Graphene and TiO2, while MgO gave the best results of rheological and filtration properties and with a higher values of yield point and gel strength. The higher value of Clay Yield obtained by0.2wt % (0.8 gm) of MgO was (173bbl/ton) while TiO2 and Graphene gave the same values (124,126 bbl/ton) respectively.