Search

In this study Neem and Yellow oleander biodiesels were blended in some given proportions and characterized. An F165 diesel engine was ran with each blend and its performance parameters evaluated and compared to those obtained when the engine ran on Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). The produced neem oil biodiesel (NOB) and yellow Oleander biodiesel (YOB) were blended together in a percentage ratio of 20:80, 40:60, 60:40 and 50:50 percentages for Neem and Yellow oleander biodiesels respectively. Results show that brake power of the blends is close to that of AGO at lower torques but developed higher power at higher torques (2.69 kWh at 10Nm for N10Y40 and 2.68 kWh for AGO). The blends exhibited close comparison with the AGO in thermal efficiency. The results of the study show a diesel engine perform well with pure biodiesel blends as fuels as it does with fossil AGO, thus new biofuel was produced capable of replacing conventional diesel fuel in the transportation industry.

Background Recent widespread adoption of a transradial approach in adults has encouraged its use and expansion in children; however, the safety and feasibility of the transradial approach in the latter has not been established. We evaluated these characteristics in our pediatric case series and compared our results with those in the literature. Methods Our prospectively maintained database was retrospectively searched for consecutive patients ≤18 years of age who underwent diagnostic and interventional neuroangiography through the transradial approach. Patient demographics, indications for the procedure, use of ultrasound guidance, arterial size at the access site, intra‐ and postprocedure complications, and outcomes were recorded. For the literature review, systematic searches of PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase databases were conducted using keywords with Boolean operators (“radial artery” AND “pediatric”) for studies published in English between January 2000 and September 2021. Continuous variables were reported as means or medians and respective standard deviations and interquartile ranges according to data normality. Categorical variables were reported as frequencies. Results Twenty‐one patients were included in our series (mean age, 16.6±2.23 years, range 9–17 years; male sex, 11 [52.4%]). The transradial approach was used for diagnostic angiography in 15 cases (71.4%) and intervention in 6 (28.6%). Ultrasound guidance was used and a “radial cocktail” (verapamil‐heparin‐nitroglycerin) was given in all cases. Mean radial artery access‐site diameter was 2.2±0.46 mm. Two cases (9.5%) required conversion to femoral access. Two patients (9.5%) suffered reversible vasospasm. No radial artery occlusion or permanent neurologic deficits were recorded. The systematic review showed results similar to ours for vasospasm rates (6.3% and 9.5%, respectively) and procedural outcomes (92% and 91%, respectively). [Correction added on November 8, 2022, after first online publication: In the preceding sentence, the value 7% was changed to 6.3%, and the value 93% was changed to 92%.] Conclusion Our results and the literature review demonstrate that the transradial approach is a safe and feasible option for pediatric patients. Routine use of ultrasound guidance, selection of appropriately sized catheters, and prophylactic use of vasodilators and antispasmodics can help ensure the success of the procedure and limit common access‐site complications.

The efficient inclusion of GNPs (graphene nanoplatelets) as an effective nano‐fillers for green polymer matrices produced with 28% of carbon originating from biomass tends to significantly improve mechanical and thermal properties. In the present work, green epoxy nanocomposites with low loading of (0.1, 0.25, and 0.5) wt% of the GNPs were made using a solution blending technique using acetone as the solvent. In mechanical stirring, the ultrasonic bath was used to ensure the efficient dispersion of GNPs within green epoxy. The resulting nanocomposites were comprehensively characterized and compared to unfilled green epoxy. Different tools were used to appraise morphological, thermal, thermo‐mechanical, and mechanical behavior. The results confirmed through FE‐SEM showed an optimal dispersion of GNPs with nanocomposites. The thermal degradation temperature (Td) of GNPs curve with 0.25 wt% loading was shifted toward higher temperature (from 336°C to 342°C) due to low percentage of loading of GNPs which showed an enhance thermal stability of polymer matrix with 0.25 wt% loading. The mechanical results were also in lined with previously published literature, in the tensile test 6.45% and hardness 13.3% increment was achieved. Overall, the results underscored significant improvements in green nanocomposite performance with low wt% of GNPs. Highlights: The study focuses on development and characterization of green epoxy nanocomposites, which utilize environmentally friendly materials as a matrix, highlighting the significance of sustainability.The study explores effects of low loading of GNPs in green epoxy nanocomposites. The results demonstrate significant improvements in mechanical and thermal properties with optimized presence of GNPs. This investigation provides insights into optimal amount of GNPs required to achieve improved properties.Research evaluates multifaceted analysis provides a holistic understanding of performance enhancements achieved through inclusion of GNPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural fibers, such as wood fibers, can substitute for synthetic fibers in various applications due to their low environmental impact, cost-effectiveness, and outstanding mechanical properties as rapid-growing materials and renewable resources. This paper aims to investigate the mechanical properties of 20% wood fiber as a reinforcement material in polylactic acid (PLA) using an additive manufacturing approach. The samples were fabricated using 3D printing techniques. The relevant parameters included the orientation of printing in X, Y, and Z directions, with the percentage of infill set to be 100%. The findings indicated that bio-composites and their adopted printing orientations confirmed the significant effects on the mechanical properties. Pure PLA possessed superior properties in all directions compared to wood/PLA. The highest values were 50.33 MPa for tensile strength and 94.36 MPa for flexural strength, both achieved in Y orientations. However, composites showed an improvement in tensile and flexural moduli in X orientation with 1395.40 MPa, and 2937.72 MPa for Young and flexural modulus, respectively. In the flammability test, wood/PLA bio-composites were ignited easily with reduced smoke production compared to the neat PLA. Wood/PLA bio-composites exhibited high stiffness, and their mechanical properties were influenced by many factors, such as percentage of weight fraction, wood type, and printing orientations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anambra and Gongola basins are part of the sedimentary inland basins in Nigeria characterized by fossil fuels and in response to its present energy problem, Nigeria has shifted its power generating focus to coal. The studied coals were obtained from two localities, namely Ankpa and Maiganga in Kogi and Gombe States, respectively. The coals were investigated to determine its quality in terms of use and resource potential. The coals were analyzed by proximate, ultimate, elemental, mineralogy and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectrometry analyses. The objectives of the study are to determine the coals cokability, rank, paleoenvironments, hydrocarbon potential, and slagging tendency. The average values of moisture content, ash, volatile matter, and fixed carbon are 5.54%, 16.42%, 48.45%, and 30.71%, respectively, for Ankpa coals, while Maiganga recorded 10.68%, 8.60%, 44.33%, and 36.41%, indicating high volatile sub-bituminous non-coking coals that are optimum for combustion and electric power generation. The Van Krevelen plot based on the H/C vs. O/C showed Type IV kerogen. The XRD results, correlation plots, and Detrital Authigenic Index (DAI) values of 7.49 and 13.49 in Ankpa and Maiganga coals, respectively, indicated that Ankpa coals are enriched in authigenic minerals like quartz, pyrite, and calcite, while kaolinite and quartz were probable detrital minerals in the Maiganga coals. The agglomeration of the coals deduced by Base/Acid (B/A), Silicon ratio (G), Silica/Alumina (S/A), Iron/Calcium (I/C), Carbon/Hydrogen (C/H), and Fixed Carbon/Volatile matter (FC/V) showed weak–medium-strong for the Ankpa coals and strong for Maiganga coals.

Exploring the role of foreign direct investment (FORGDIR) in promoting the influence of green levies (GRENLEV) on green energy technologies (GETs) is pivotal for achieving sustainable development goals. This study therefore, explores the influence of FORGDIR on the nexus between green levies (GRENLEV) and green energy technologies (GETs). We employed quantitative research paradigm as we extracted data from the quantitative method. Data was extracted from the World Bank Database and “Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development” (OECD) for 20 years from 2003 to 2022 relating to Nigeria. After controlling for climate change and greenhouse emanations, the study found that GRENLEV is positive and significantly related to GETs. It was also revealed that FORGDIR is negative and significantly GETs. It was finally documented that the interaction between FORGDIR and GRENLEV (GREENT*FDI) is negative and significantly related to GETs, implying that FORGDIR reverses the positive effect of GRENLEV on GETs. Thus, it requires a careful policy design and regulatory frameworks that align FORGDIR with green objectives which in return stimulate sustainable investment in GETs. Therefore, this study can provide a useful information for the policymakers and regulators in providing strategies for green growth and sustainable development goals.

A commonly wasted agricultural waste, pomegranate peel has attracted attention as a useful biomaterial with a wide range of potential uses. Fruit and vegetable wastes create environmental difficulties, as well as a loss of valuable biomass and a financial cost to enterprises, due to its high biodegradability. This study focuses on the extraction and characterization of cellulose from both the outer and inner layers of pomegranate peel. The cellulose extraction process involves a multi-step approach, encompassing delignification and mercerization. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed characteristic peaks associated with cellulose, confirming its presence in the extracted material. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) depicted the morphological transformation of cellulose as non-cellulosic components were removed during the extraction process. Particle size analysis demonstrated that alkaline treatment reduced the cellulose particle size. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated a significant increase in cellulose crystallinity due to the elimination of hemicellulose and lignin following the extraction process. The chemical composition analysis revealed that treated pomegranate peels contained higher cellulose content compared to their untreated counterparts. This study offers insightful information about the possible uses of pomegranate peel cellulose and its adaptability to a different application.

Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) may recognize and generate an immunological response to DNA double-strand; therefore, its link with experimental and serological lupus symptoms must be investigated. Genetic data on the normal frequencies of the TLR9 (rs187084) polymorphism may make it difficult to choose an adequate sample size for case-control association studies. This study investigated how TLR9 (rs187084) polymorphism is typically distributed among the people living in Kano, Nigerians. TLR9 (rs187084) polymorphism was examined in a sample of 315 individuals using the polylmerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. The mutant allele was more common (67%) and gender-independent. The gradual incidence of changed alleles in both identities suggests the population was chosen to survive tuberculosis (TB) and malaria. Though increased TLR9 expression is protective against infections, it might likewise play a part in the development of inflammatory disorders. The high frequency of TLR9 (rs187084) over-expression in Kano State residents may be the result of genetic adaptation to the state's common infectious and parasitic diseases. This is thought to be the outcome of interactions among genetic factors and the terrain. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune disorders have been linked to this genetic plasticity. Sample sizes for future case-control studies can be determined using the current data. However, to further understand the link between the TLR9-rs187084 variation and the risk of systemic inflammatory diseases, functional investigations might be undertaken.

Abstract The incidence of vibriosis is rising globally with evidence of climate variability influencing environmental processes that support growth of pathogenic Vibrio spp. The waterborne pathogen, Vibrio vulnificus can invade wounds and has one of the highest case fatality rates in humans. The bacterium cannot be eradicated from the aquatic environment, hence climate driven environmental conditions enhancing growth and dissemination of V. vulnificus need to be understood to provide preemptive assessment of its presence and distribution in aquatic systems. To achieve this objective, satellite remote sensing was employed to quantify the association of sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll‐a (chl‐a) in locations with reported V. vulnificus infections. Monthly analysis was done in two populated regions of the Gulf of Mexico—Tampa Bay, Florida, and Galveston Bay, Texas. Results indicate warm water, characterized by a 2‐month lag in SST, high concentration of phytoplankton, proxied for zooplankton using 1 month lagged chl‐a values, was statistically linked to higher odds of V. vulnificus infection in the human population. Identification of climate and ecological processes thresholds is concluded to be useful for development of an heuristic prediction system designed to determine risk of infection for coastal populations.

Analog photonic information processing can be implemented with low chip area using wavelength-division multiplexed systems, which typically manipulate light using micro-ring resonators. Micro-rings are uniquely susceptible to thermal crosstalk, with negative system performance consequences if not addressed. Existing thermal sensitivity mitigation methods face drawbacks including high complexity, high latency, high digital and analog hardware requirements, and CMOS incompatibility. Here, we demonstrate a passive thermal desensitization mechanism for silicon micro-ring resonators exploiting self-heating resulting from optical absorption. We achieve a 49% reduction in thermal crosstalk sensitivity and 1 µs adaptation latency using a system with no specialized micro-ring engineering, no additional control hardware, and no additional calibration. Our theoretical model indicates the potential for significant further desensitization gains with optimized micro-ring designs. Self-heating desensitization can be combined with active thermal stabilization to achieve both responsiveness and accuracy or applied independently to thermally desensitize large photonic systems for signal processing or neural network inference.

Abstract Background Fascia iliaca compartment block (FICB) is one of the regional nerve blocks used to reduce pain after total hip arthroplasty (THA). We aim to assess the efficacy of FICB in reducing post-operative pain and opioid consumption. Methods We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Scopus on February 19, 2023, and we updated our search in august 2023 using relevant search strategy. Studies were extensively screened for eligibility by title and abstract screening, followed by full-text screening. We extracted the data from the included studies, and then pooled the data as mean difference (MD) or odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI), using Review Manager Software (ver. 3.5). Results FIBC significantly reduced analgesic consumption at 24 h (MD = -8.75, 95% CI [-9.62, -7.88] P

Background: Surgical Site Infections (SSI) impose a critical complication following lower segment cesarean sections (LSCS), contributing significantly to maternal morbidity and mortality. Understanding the risk factors associated with SSI is essential for improving clinical outcomes and enhancing patient care. This study aimed to identify the rate and risk factors associated with SSI among women who underwent LSCS at Salmaniya Medical Complex (SMC) in Bahrain. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at SMC in the period between 2020 and 2023. All patients with SSI post-LSCS and a comparable sample of patients who underwent LSCS but had no SSI were included. Data including patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and specific risk factors related to SSI were collected from electronic medical records. Descriptive and inferential analyses were done. Results: The rate of SSI was 2.1% among women who underwent LSCS in SMC. Predictors of higher rates of SSI post-LSCS included having an emergency LSCS (odds ratio [OR]=4.14), a longer hospital stay (OR 1.37), and pre-operative stage 1 hypertension (OR=2.66), while diabetes mellitus (OR=0.29) and post-operative elevated laying blood pressure were linked to a reduced risk (OR=0.42) of postLSCS SSI. Conclusion: This study revealed a low rate of post-LSCS SSI. This study highlighted the implications of emergency procedures, hospital stay duration, and blood pressure management. The paradoxical protective effect of diabetes mellitus warrants further investigation. These insights are pivotal for developing targeted interventions aimed at minimizing SSI, thereby enhancing maternal health outcomes in clinical practice. Keywords: Pregnancy, Female, Surgical Wound Infection, Cesarean Section, Risk Factors

Introduction: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common functional gastrointestinal tract disorder. Bacillus coagulans (BC) is a potent spore-forming probiotic that has been proposed as a potent supplement that can improve gastrointestinal tract dysbiosis and relieve IBS symptoms. We aim to assess the effect of BC on different IBS symptoms severity among other IBS-related symptoms. Methods: We searched seven databases for RCTs that compare the use of BC versus placebo in the management of IBS symptoms. Results: Our search finally retrieved seven RCTs after extensive screening. Our analysis revealed that BC significantly improved the severity of IBS symptoms such as urgency {MD: −1.05, 95% CI: −1.33; −0.77}, bowel habit satisfaction {MD: −1.40, 95% CI: −1.68; −1.13}, straining {MD: −1. 22, 95% CI: −1.61; −0.82}, the passage of gas {MD: −1.25, 95% CI: −1.51; −0.99}, incomplete evacuation {MD: −1.06, 95% CI: −1.55; −0.57}, and the total score of symptom severity {MD: −10.13, 95% CI: −11.61; −8.66, (P ​

Abstract Background Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 envisions a future where everyone has access to clean water and sanitation. Yet, as 2030 looms closer, the complexity of achieving this target becomes apparent, with issues far surpassing basic water infrastructure and utility challenges. The underlying problems lie in broader spheres such as governance, policymaking, and financing. Main body The global landscape of water management is marked by complexities that transcend the operational troubles of water utilities. Financial sustainability is a monumental task. And while it is true that water utilities struggle with revenue generation, the broader picture reveals systemic challenges. The true cost of water provision often extends to ecosystem services such as watershed protection. Often, these services are not internalized in the revenue models of utilities but are typically subsidized by governments or simply not considered. Balancing affordability for users with cost recovery for service providers, however, is not just an arithmetic exercise. It is also a question of equitable policies. Non-revenue water (NRW), resulting from physical losses such as leaks, theft, and inaccurate [or lack of] metering, exacerbates existing financial strain. Annual NRW losses are estimated at an astonishing 126 billion cubic meters, costing roughly USD 39 billion. But at the most fundamental level of achieving SDG 6 is misgovernance. Effective water governance demands consistent policies, coherent collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and comprehensive strategies that cater to specific regional contexts. Current models often suffer from fragmented policies, inadequate public-private partnerships, and weak engagement mechanisms. A glaring gap exists between academic advancements in water management and their practical implementation in policymaking. Moreover, international cooperation, while vital, reveals an unequal landscape in knowledge exchange. Knowledge transfer is often skewed, favoring dominant nations while sidelining voices from the Global South. This emphasizes the need for an inclusive, equitable, and context-specific global cooperation model. Conclusion The road to realizing SDG 6 is multifaceted, and while on-the-ground solutions are essential, the real success lies in addressing the foundational challenges. This requires innovative financial solutions, reimagining water governance structures, and ensuring all voices, especially from the Global South, are heard and integrated into global policies. As 2030 nears, it is the synergy of governance, finance, and technology that will ultimately make clean water and sanitation a reality for all.

Effective water management is an essential component of sustainable fish farming practices, particularly in the context of global water scarcity. The accumulation of ammonium ions (NH4+) from fish metabolism necessitates frequent water changes, posing a challenge to the sustainability of fish farming operations. Zeolite materials have emerged as a promising solution, offering enhanced ammonium cation removal compared to conventional nitrifying bacteria. This innovative approach alleviates the pressure on water resources and promotes environmental sustainability in fish farming. Over 75 days, this study examined how zeolite, stocking density, and water exchange affected European seabass water quality and growth. 250 kg of seabass, 25.61 ± 2.39 g/fish. Three factors: zeolite levels (Z: 0, 10, and 15 ppt), density (D: 1, 2.5, and 5 kg/m3), and water exchange (W: 10, 25, and 50 %), using 81 hapas with 0.5 m3 vol each (triplicates for each treatment) fixed in concrete ponds, fish were randomly distributed among 81 experimental hapas in 27 ponds. This research illuminates the potential benefits of various therapies. Zeolite in seabass culture improved water quality. It reduced ammonia derivatives, improving water quality. Adjusting seabass stocking density to low or high improved water quality measures. This change kept dissolved oxygen levels within the target range, providing a good home for farmed fish. Zeolite supplements, reduced stocking density, and optimum water exchange improved European seabass growth, along with water quality improvements. These interventions improved feed consumption and growth rates. These approaches promoted fish growth and reduced stress by limiting the negative effects of high stocking density. The study also examined immune-related, hematobiochemical, and plasma biochemical characteristics after the interventions. Zeolite supplementation, to low stocking density, and water exchange improved these characteristics. They strengthened the European seabass' immune system and preserved healthy plasma and hematobiochemical parameters. In conclusion, optimizing European seabass culture with zeolite (15 ppt), stocking density (1 kg/m3), and water exchange (50 %) enhances water quality, growth performance, and physiological parameters. This contributes to improved aquaculture sustainability and efficiency. Further research is required to fully elucidate the molecular mechanisms of those factors that affect fish health and aquaculture practices.

Key Clinical Message Snakebite is a significant global public health concern. Venomous snake bites can lead to various life‐threatening clinical conditions that affect different bodily systems. These include the nervous system (neurotoxicity), musculoskeletal system (myotoxicity), cardiovascular system (cardiotoxicity), and blood clotting mechanisms (haemotoxicity). Here, we report a 5‐year‐old boy who was bitten by a snake and presented to the Emergency department with complaints of significant infection, necrosis, and gangrene affecting the three fingers of his right hand. After clinical evaluation and investigations, the patient underwent surgical intervention. The patient was discharged from the hospital after 5 weeks of admission with advice to follow up with a primary care physician and physical rehabilitation therapy to ensure the optimal healing and functionality of the affected hand.

The present study aims to investigate the influence of zeolite usage and stocking densities on various parameters, including ammonia removal from water, accumulation of heavy metals in fish organs, water quality, growth performance, feed efficiency, muscle composition, as well as hematological and biochemical parameters in European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) over a 90-day duration. A total of 2400 D. labrax with an initial weight of 9.83 ± 2.02 g and initial length of 9.37 ± 0.32 cm were distributed among 24 tanks. The research involved six distinct treatment groups, with two different zeolite levels (0 and 15 ppt) and three stocking density levels (50, 100, and 150 fish/m3), each replicated four times. The results of the research demonstrate a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) in water quality measures with the introduction of zeolite. The successful implementation of this amendment mitigated the adverse effects of fish density on water quality parameters. Higher stocking density negatively impacted European sea bass growth, feed utilization, and hemato-biochemical indicators. Zeolite use effectively alleviated these adverse effects, particularly on performance, feed utilization, hematological, and biochemical parameters. The study's results indicate that the utilization of zeolite has shown to be efficacious in mitigating the accumulation of heavy metals in both water and fish organs, while concurrently augmenting fish attributes. However, the increase in density led to a significant decrease in the accumulation of heavy metals in both water and fish organs. The present study highlights the capacity of natural zeolites to mitigate the negative consequences associated with water quality concerns. The efficiency of these zeolites in limiting the accessibility of heavy metals in polluted water is shown, hence minimizing their accumulation in fish organs. In addition, the improvement of fish performance has the capacity to have a beneficial influence on both the well-being and efficiency of fish in aquaculture. Additional research is essential to fully understand the complex molecular pathways involved in utilizing natural zeolite under different fish densities.