The purpose of the current study was directed to investigate the effectiveness of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) as a chemopreventive agent on experimentally induced hamster buccal pouch (HBP) carcinogenesis; Material and methods: 40 Syrian male hamsters, five weeks old, were divided into 4 groups of 10 animals in each as follows, GI: Topical application of liquid paraffin alone (thrice a week for 14 weeks), GII: Topical application of 7, 12 dimethyl benz[a]anthracene (DMBA) alone (0.5 % in liquid paraffin, thrice a week for 14 weeks), GIII: Topical application of DMBA (0.5 % in liquid paraffin, thrice a week for 14 weeks) + Oral administration of DHA (125 mg/kg b.w. in 1 ml distilled water by oral gavage, thrice a week for 14 weeks on alternative days of DMBA application), GIV : Oral administration of DHA alone (125 mg/kg b.w. in 1 ml distilled water by oral gavage, thrice a week for 14 weeks); Results: Gross observations and histopathological findings revealed a-GI: normal stratified squamous epithelium b- GII: well and moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) c-: GIII: showed variable results ranges from hyperkeratosis, hyperkeratosis and focal hyperplasia, mild dysplasia, and well differentiated SCC with superficial invasion of tumor cells not extended to deeper areas d: GIV: normal similar to GI. Immunohistochemical results revealed that oral DHA treatment to DMBA treated hamsters restored the normal expression of bcl-2; Conclusion: DHA has the potential to be a dietary chemopreventive agent due to its capacity to improve carcinogen detoxification and to block/suppress the initiation and promotion stages of experimentally produced HBP carcinogenesis.

(1) Background: The present study was carried out to provide new information about the relation between angiogenesis, tumor stage Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC); (2) Materials and methods: Thirty formalin-fixed paraffin embedded blocks were used, 10 of them were previously diagnosed as well differentiated OSCC, 10 moderate differentiated OSCC and 10 poorly differentiated OSCC. To determine the expression of CD31 and D2-40 proteins, streptavidin-biotin immunoperoxidase staining technique was used. The areas with the most vascular density (hot spots) were determined. The stained vessels were counted independently in intratumoral and peritumoral stroma in five areas of hot spot at ×400 magnification; (3) Results: Immunohistochemical staining using CD 31 protein showed that CD31-positive vessels in the peritumoral and intratumoral stroma subjacent to the malignant invading nests which was recorded highest values in poor differentiated OSSC followed by moderate differentiated OSSC then well differentiated OSSC. D2-40 expression was positive in lymphatic vessel in the peritumoral and intratumoral stroma subjacent to the malignant invading nests. Poorly differentiated OSSC tissue sections recorded the highest vessels count followed by moderate differentiated OSSC then well differentiated OSSC. There was statistically significant difference found between the three studied groups regarding CD31 and D2-40 levels. Also there was statistically significant positive correlation found between CD31 level and D2-40 level and vice versa; (4) Conclusion: CD31 and D2-40 are related to stage of OSCC and are consistent with angiogenesis in tumor progression.

Abstract: This article explores the intricate relationship between environmental degradation, specifically air pollution, and economic growth in the Sultanate of Oman spanning the period from 1990 to 2022. We employ cointegration and vector error correction models to uncover both short- and long-term dynamics in the association between air pollution and economic growth. Fur-thermore, Granger causality analysis is utilized to investigate the causal links between these crucial variables. This data encompasses factors related to environmental quality and various control variables. The empirical results unveil a sustained long-term cointegration connection between the variables. Additionally, our findings highlight a statistically significant positive impact of economic growth and energy consumption on CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the short-term analysis reveals an annual adjustment of approximately 14.1% in N2O emissions dis-equilibrium. The Granger causality study indicates unidirectional causal relationships involving N2O emissions, economic growth, and CO2 emissions. The implications of these findings for Oman's policy landscape are substantial. To effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it is imperative for Oman to establish robust climate change policies. Additionally, the government can play a pivotal role in encouraging and endorsing the use of renewable energy sources, such as green hydrogen, as a promising alternative to traditional oil and gas resources.

The design of highly efficient sensitizers is one of the most significant areas in dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) research. We have studied a series of benzothiadiazole-based D-π-π-A organic dyes, putting emphasis on the influence of the donor moiety on the DSSC’s efficiency. Using linear response time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) with the CAM-B3LYP functional different donor groups were characterized in terms of electronic absorption spectra and key photovoltaic parameters. As a reference a dye has been considered which has a benzothiadiazole fragment linked via thiophene rings to a diphenylamine donor and a cyanoacrylic acid acceptor. The different systems are first studied in terms of individual performance parameters, which are eventually aggregated into the power conversion efficiency. Here only the amino-substituted species shows a modest increase, whereas the dimethylamino case even shows a decrease.

Kinesio tape is considered one of the most common techniques which using recently, where it is used as a therapeutic technique for pain relief, correction of joint position, prevention of oedema and injuries, improve range of motion and muscular activity for the individual. This study is a descriptive research design and aims to identify the effect of using Kinesio tape on the neuromuscular activity of quadriceps muscle after the rehabilitation program of the knee joint. The study sample consists of (10) players from different sports (football, basketball …etc.) and suffering from knee joint injuries. This sample was taken from Kafr-El sheikh and Kaleen club. Results showed that Kinesio tape doesn’t have any explicit effect on the neuromuscular activity of muscle but acts as a catalyst for muscle and promote a person’s feeling of psychological wellbeing and reassurance.When comparing results of using Kinesio tape during performing leg squatting and balance test with not using tape, founded that when performing leg squatting and balance test with using Kinesio tape, there were significant effects on muscle activity compared to not using it.

In the present paper, the effect of the non-linear thermal radiation on the neutral gas mixture in the unsteady state is investigated for the first time. The unsteady BGK technique of the Boltzmann kinetic equations for a neutral non-homogenous gas is solved. The solution of the unsteady case makes the problem more general significance than the stationary one. For this purpose, the moments' method, together with the traveling wave method, is applied. The temperature and concentration are calculated for each gas component and mixture for the first time.Furthermore, the study is held for aboard range of temperatures ratio parameter and a wide range of the molar fraction. The distribution functions are calculated for each gas component and the gas mixture. The significant non-equilibrium irreversible thermodynamic characteristics the entire system is acquired analytically. That technic allows us to investigate the consistency of Boltzmann's H-theorem, Le Chatelier principle, and thermodynamics laws. Moreover, the ratios among the different participation of the internal energy alteration are evaluated via the Gibbs formula of total energy. The final results are utilized to the argon-helium non-homogenous gas at different magnitudes of radiation force strength and molar fraction parameters. 3D-graphics are presented to predict the behavior of the calculated variables, and the obtained results are theoretically discussed.

Introduction: The attitudes of doctors and nurses toward patient safety is a significant factor in hospital safety climates and medical error rates. Yet, there are very few studies of patient safety attitudes in Saudi hospitals and none conducted in hospital emergency departments. Aims: The current study aims to investigate the discrepancy between the patient safety attitudes of doctors and nurses in a Saudi hospital emergency department. Materials and Method: The study employed a qualitative research designvia semi-structured interviews with Saudi and non-Saudi doctors and nurses working in a Saudi hospital emergency department to determine their attitudes and experiences about the patient safety climate. Results: The findings showed doctors and nurse held some similar safety attitudes, however, nurses reported issues with doctors with respect to their teamwork, communication, and patient safety attitudes. Moreover, several barriers to the patient safety climate were identified such as limits to resources, teamwork, communication, and incident reporting. Conclusion: The findings provide one of the few research contributions to knowledge on the differential patient safety attitudes of Saudi and non-Saudi doctors and nurses and suggest the application of such knowledge would enhance positive patient outcomes in emergency departments.

Keywords: Innovation ecosystems, Economic sustainability, Hydrocarbon-based economies, Economic diversification, Qualitative approach

In this paper, a recent meta-heuristic optimization algorithm called the discrete-continuous hyper-spherical search algorithm is used to solve the mixed-integer nonlinear problem of soft open points (SOPs) and renewable distributed generators allocation along with new network reconfiguration methodology under different loading conditions to minimize the total power loss in balanced distribution systems. Multi-scenario studies, which aim to improve the investigation of the overall performance of the strategies, are conducted on IEEE 33-node and 83-node balanced distribution systems. The contributions of SOP losses to the total active losses, as well as the effect of increasing the number of SOPs connected to the system, are investigated to determine the real benefits gained from their allocation. The results obtained validate, with proper justifications, the effectiveness of allocating both SOPs and renewable distributed generators with the proposed network reconfiguration methodology to provide the best operation of distribution networks with minimum losses and enhanced power quality performance. It was also shown that SOPs successfully assist the growing integration plans of the renewable distributed generators units and can address issues related to voltage violations and network losses efficiently.

A ducted photovoltaic façade (DPV) unit Studied using experimental Prototype and simulated in a full scale Computational Fluid Dynamics CFD Model. The Study comes in two parts; This is Part I with the title detailed above and Part II titled ‘A Ducted Photovoltaic Façade Unit with Buoyancy Cooling: Part II CFD Simulation’.. The process adopted in the experimental study is replicated in the simulation Part. The aim was to optimize the duct width behind the solar cells to allow for maximum buoyancy-driven cooling for the cells during operation. Duct widths from 5 to 50 cm were tested in a Proto-type. A duct width of 45 cm had the maximum calculated heat removed from the duct; however, the lowest cell-operating temperature was reported for duct width of 50 cm. It was found that the DT between ducts' inlets and outlets range from 5.47 °C to 12.32 °C for duct widths of 5–50 cm, respectively. The ducted system enhanced module efficiency by 12.69% by reducing PV temperature by 27 °C from 100°C to 73 °C. The maximum calculated heat recovered from the ducted PV system is 422 W. This is 47.98% from the incident radiation in the test. Total summation of heat recovered and power enhanced by the ducted system is 61.67%.

Solar radiation prediction is an important process in ensuring optimal exploitation of solar energy power. Numerous models have been applied to this problem, such as numerical weather prediction models and artificial intelligence models. However, well-designed hybridization approaches that combine numerical models with artificial intelligence models to yield a more powerful model can provide a significant improvement in prediction accuracy. In this paper, we propose novel hybrid machine learning approaches that exploit auxiliary numerical data. The proposed hybrid methods invoke different machine learning paradigms, including feature selection, classification, and regression. Additionally, numerical weather prediction (NWP) models are used in the proposed hybrid models. Feature selection is used for feature space dimension reduction to reduce the large number of recorded parameters that affect estimation and prediction processes. The rough set theory is applied for attribute reduction and the dependency degree is used as a fitness function. We investigate the effect of the attribute reduction process with thirty different classification and prediction models in addition to the proposed hybrid model. Then, different machine learning models are constructed based on classification and regression techniques to predict solar radiation. Moreover, other hybrid prediction models are formulated to use the output of the numerical model of Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) as learning elements in order to improve the prediction accuracy. The proposed methodologies are evaluated using a data set that is collected from different regions in Saudi Arabia.

The physicochemical treatment/recovery techniques, including precipitation, membrane technology, solvent extraction, foam fractionation, adsorption, and aqueous two-phase systems, will be reviewed. The bio-treatment processes, based on microorganisms and/or enzymes consuming nutrients available in food-processing wastewater as low-cost substrates to produce valuable products, will be discussed in detail, including the production of microalga biomass in wastewater treatment systems. Finally, future research direction will be proposed to integrate the circular economy and develop integrated food processing wastewater management systems.

Tamarix nilotica (Ehrenb.) Bunge (Tamaricaceae), an indigenous plant to the Middle East region, is well-known as a medicinal plant for treating many human ailments. The current study aimed at exploring the polyphenols profile of T.nilotica alcohol soluble fraction of aqueous extract, assessing its in-vivo antifibrotic activity and the possible underlying mechanism, to unravel the impact of quantitative difference of sulphated polyphenols content on the antifibrotic activity of T.nilotca grown in two different habitats. Polyphenols profiling of T. nilotica extracts was performed using HPLC-HRESI-QTOF-MS-MS. The major polyphenol components included sulphated flavonoids, phenolic acids and free aglycones. The antifibrotic activity was evaluated through carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Biochemical evaluations revealed that both fractions ameliorated the increased levels of hepatic aminotransferases, lipid peroxidation, hydroxyproline, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Moreover, both fractions reduced catalase activity (CAT) and enhanced hepatic glutathione (GSH) content. Histopathological imaging undoubtedly confirmed such results. In conclusion, T. nilotica polyphenols rich fraction exhibited potential antifibrotic activity in rats. Significant alterations in GSH levels were recorded based on sulphated polyphenol metabolites content.

Abstract: Ovulation failure was associated with a reduction in pre-mating concentrations of oestradiol-17β and prolactin (PRL). The present study aimed to evaluate whether pre-mating PRL levels have a role on the reproductive efficiency of doe rabbits. A total of 78 multiparous California does (2nd parity) were divided, according to plasma pre-mating PRL, into five categories, >20-25, >25-30, >30-35, >35-40, and >40-45 ng/ml. Does in all categories were naturally mated and kindled, then their reproductive measurements and progesterone (P4) levels were determined. Results show that pre-mating PRL averaged 23.60±0.78, 28.00±0.83, 33.46±0.43, 38.17±0.49 and 41.98±0.68 ng/ml in five categories (p < 0.05), respectively, representing the highest distribution (38.5%) in the 3rd-category. Live body weight of doe rabbits, at mating, pregnancy, and parturition increased (p < 0.05) with increasing pre-mating PRL level. The number of services, litter size, and pregnancy rate increased (p < 0.05) by increasing PRL levels. Reproductive traits and P4 level at mid-pregnancy of does, and average weight of kits at birth increased (p < 0.05) by increasing PRL levels. The pre-mating PRL profile is important for the identification of reproductive performance in doe rabbits.

The reaction of 2-bromo-1-(5-methyl-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)ethan-1-one (1) with 4-amino-5-((2,4-dichlorophenoxy)methyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol (2) in absolute ethanol in the presence of triethyl amine as catalyst gave 2-((4-amino-5-((2,4-dichlorophenoxy)methyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)thio)-1-(5-methyl-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)ethan-1-one (3) in 73% yield. The structure of the title heterocycle (3) was confirmed by X-ray single crystal diffraction and spectral analyses (NMR and IR).

This research presents alternative solutions for an Energy Efficiency Management System (EEMS) serving as a framework for optimizing the energy consumption algorithm and lowering energy consumption. First, a monitoring Wireless Sensor and Actuator Network (WSAN) is used for sensing, measuring, gathering data, and modeling all the dynamic disturbance parameters of the rooms in the building. Second, integrated software for metering and controlling the processes of digital data flow is used. Third, an alternative solution is proposed to reduce energy consumption. The primary benefits of this system are real-time monitoring; rapid, alternative solutions; and the ability to make a prudent decision on how to lower energy consumption. The system shows instant and accumulated solutions for short and long-term time planning. The solutions identified can be implemented in the same buildings under the same circumstances. The universities of Majmaah and Philadelphia have buildings with similar infrastructure. The system was applied to the buildings at Philadelphia University. The results were generalized to both universities. After implementation, the energy consumption of the EEMS using WSAN (based on the monitoring was reduced up to 23% when compared to that of the initial state.

In this paper, we implement a new method binary Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) for solving the kidney exchange problem, which will improve the future decisions of kidney exchange programs. Because using a kidney exchange, we can help incompatible patient-donor couples to swap donors to receive a compatible kidney. Kidney paired donation programs provide an innovative approach for increasing the number of available kidneys. Further, we implementing binary particle swarm optimization in parallel with MATLAB with one, two, three and four threads and from the computations point of view, the authors compare the performance to reduce the running time for kidney exchange to match patients as fast as possible to help clinicians. Moreover, implementing binary particle swarm optimization in solving the kidney exchange problem is an effective method. The obtained results indicate that binary PSO outperforms other stochastic-based methods such as genetic algorithm, ant lion optimization, and efficient the number of resulting exchanges.

The recently reported microbial natural product N-benzoyl-tryptophane (1) along with twenty-two diverse known bioactive compounds were isolated from the marine Aspergillus terreus LGO13 after its re-cultivation using liquid culture fermentation. Structures of the isolated compounds were established on the basis of HR-ESIMS 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy, and comparison with literature data. The antimicrobial, cytotoxicity, and antiviral activities of the microbial extract and the obtained compounds were investigated using a set of microorganisms, cervix carcinoma KB-3-1, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) A549, and coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), respectively. Molecular docking (MD) simulation was employed to explore the theoretical targets of the isolated metabolites as anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents. Chaetominine (2) seemed to be a potential candidate against papain-like protease (PLpro), one of the viral proteins being aimed by recent research as a possible target of anti-covid agents. Inspired by the MD results, we accordingly assessed the antiviral efficacy of chaetominine (2), fumitremorgin C (6), and azaspirofuran A (9) against SARS-CoV-2. Fumitremorgin C (6) showed a high selectivity index (SI = 20.3), while chaetominine (2) and azaspirofuran A (9) showed moderate selectivity index (SI = 6.6 and 3.2, respectively). These results showed a promising antiviral activity of Fumitremorgin C against SARS-CoV-2 virus.

A new green-validated and highly sensitive electrochemical method for the determination of molnupiavir (MOV) has been developed using cyclic voltammetry. The proposed analytical platform involves the use of disposable screen-printed reduced graphene oxide 2.5% electrode (SPrGOE 2.5%) for the first time to measure MOV with high specificity. The surface morphology of the sensor was investigated by using a scanning electron microscope armed with an energy-dispersive X-ray probe. The fabricated sensor attains improved sensitivity when sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) surfactant was added to the supporting electrolyte solution. Thus, various factors were investigated in order to select the best supporting electrolyte for voltammetric determination of MOV, and the optimum conditions were achieved by employing 0.04 M Britton-Robinson at pH 2, 10-4 M SDS, and SPrGOE 2.5%. Well-defined MOV oxidation peaks were obtained with no reduction peaks in cyclic voltammetry using diffusion-controlled pathways. The method was validated using differential pulse voltammetry according to ICH guidelines, providing it to be precise, accurate, specific, and robust with linearity over a concentration range of 50-6017 ng/mL. The incorporation of the reduced graphene nanoparticles supported the in situ interaction between electrode surface and MOV, improved the selectivity, and reduced the detection limit to the concentration level of 15.98 ng/mL. The stability investigation demonstrated that SPrGOE 2.5% can provide high-stability behavior throughout a three-month period under refrigeration. The fabricated SPrGOE 2.5% was successfully employed for the measurement of MOV in pharmaceutical capsules and human bio-fluids without the interference of endogenous matrix components as well as the commonly used excipient.

Innovation is rapidly growing and affecting various industries, including hydrocarbon processing. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive and organized review of the literature on innovation ecosystems and their performance. It will examine existing definitions of innovation ecosystems and related concepts and identify metrics and indicators for measuring innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems. The term "innovation ecosystem" has gained considerable attention from scholars and practitioners over the past fifteen years. Despite the proliferation of research in this area, there are concerns about its fragmented knowledge base. While previous reviews have highlighted the theoretical connections between innovation ecosystems and related concepts, there is still a need for a more comprehensive understanding of the current state of innovation ecosystem research. The study used a systematic literature review approach that combines bibliographic coupling and content analysis methods, drawing on over 100 studies to identify five streams of current innovation ecosystem research: technology innovation, platform innovation ecosystems, regional development, innovation ecosystem conceptualization and theorization, and entrepreneurship and innovation. The study's contribution lies in decoding the intellectual structure of current innovation ecosystem research and providing targeted recommendations for future research.

At secondary healthcare, Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacterales (CREs) such as observed in Klebsiella pneumoniae are a global public health priority with significant clinical outcomes. In this study, we describe clinical, phenotypic, and genotypic characteristics of three pan-drug resistant (PDR) isolates that demonstrated extended resistance to conventional and novel antimicrobials. All patients had risk factors for acquisition of multidrug resistant organisms while microbiological susceptibility testing showed resistance to all conventional antimicrobials. Advanced susceptibility testing demonstrated resistance to broad agents such as ceftazidime-avibactam, ceftolozane-tazobactam, and meropenem-vaborbactam. Nevertheless, all isolates were susceptible to cefiderocol, one of the novel antimicrobials that demonstrated potent in vitro activity against resistant Gram-negative bacteria including CREs pointing towards potential therapeutic role for PDR pathogens. Expanded genomic studies revealed multiple antimicrobial resistant genes (ARGs), including blaNMD-5 and blaOXA derivative types as well as a mutated outer membrane porin protein (OmpK37).

This work probes the combined effects of magnetic field and viscous dissipation on heat field and examine the second law analysis (entropy generation) in an electrically conducting fluid under the effect of wall mass transfer over continuous stretched non-isothermal surface with variable viscosity. The viscosity of the fluid is assumed to be an inverse linear function of temperature. The governing equation for the problem are changed to dimensionless ordinary differential equations by using similarity transformation and solved numerically by using Rung Kutta and Shooting technique. Velocity, concentration and temperature distribution are obtained and used to compute the entropy generation and the Bejan number in the flow field. The effect of variable viscosity, Schmidt number, Hartman and Reynolds number on the velocity, concentration, temperature, entropy generation and Bejan number are studied and discussed.

Molecular analysis is an easier means to identify and isolate a specific gene which has imperative function for growth, body composition , fat deposition, metabolic and skeletal traits as well as the molecular genetics selection on individual genes is a very efficient method to genetically improve economically important traits in chickens. Insulin- like growth factor 1 ( IGF-1)is a member of a heterogeneous group of peptides with important growth.Transforming growth factorβ ( TGF-β) belongs to a large family of growth and differentiation factors that play a pivotal role in a great variety of biological activities including morphogenesis, development and differentiation. DNA was extracted from 48 chickens sampled from three strains Lohman (17) , Sinai (24) and Gimmizah (7) IGF-1 gene and TGFβ2 gene were amplified using PCR protocol. Electrophoresis was carried out on the products of PCR , bands viewed on transilluminator. The size of IGF-1 gene was 675 bp while the size of TGFβ2 gene was 188bp. Sharp bands were purified and sequenced and used the dendrogram to show the relationships between other vertebrate species

The Bcl-2 family plays a crucial role in regulating cell apoptosis, making it an attractive target for cancer therapy. In this study, a series of indole-based compounds, U1-6, were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their anticancer activity against BCL-2-expressing cancer cell lines. The binding affinity, safety profile, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis effects of the compounds were tested. The designed compounds exhibited potent inhibitory activity at sub-micromolar IC50 concentrations against MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and A549 cell lines. Notably, U2 and U3 demonstrated the highest activity, particularly against MCF-7 cells. Respectively, both U2 and U3 showed potential Bcl-2 inhibition activity with IC50 values of 1.2 ± 0.02 and 11.10 ± 0.07 µM using an ELISA binding assay compared to 0.62 ± 0.01 µM for gossypol, employed as positive control. Molecular docking analysis suggested stable interactions of compound U2 at the Bcl-2 binding site through hydrogen bonding, pi-pi stacking, and hydrophobic interactions. Furthermore, U2 demonstrated significant induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at G1/S phase. Importantly, U2 displayed a favorable safety profile on HDF human dermal normal fibroblast cells at 10-fold greater IC50 compared to MDA-MB-231 cells. These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of compound U2 as a Bcl-2 inhibitor and provide insights into its molecular mechanisms of action.

In this work, meshless methods are applied for the solution of two-dimensional steady-state heat conduction problems with nonlocal multi-point boundary conditions (NMBC). These meshless procedures are based on multiquadric radial basis function (MQ RBF) and its modified version (i.e. integrated MQ RBF). The proposed meshless methods which were recently published in \cite{Reutskiy2016} is compared with standard collocation method (i.e. Kansa's method). Three different sorts of solution domain are considered in which Dirichlet boundary condition is specified on some part of the boundary and is related to the unknown function values at a discrete set of interior points. The influence of NMBC on the accuracy and condition number of the system matrix associated to the proposed methods is investigated. The sensitivity of the shape parameter is also analyzed in the proposed methods. Performance of the proposed approaches in terms of accuracy and efficiency is confirmed on the benchmark problems.

Background: Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASP) were introduced in healthcare as a public health priority to promote appropriate prescribing of antimicrobials, reduce antimicrobials adverse events as well as control challenges of antimicrobial resistance. To deliver aimed outcome objectives, ASPs involve multiple implementation measures. A review of systematic review was conducted to evaluate ASPs process and outcome measures. Guided by PRISMA frames, published systematic reviews (SR) focusing on ASPs restricted to secondary healthcare were evaluated over the past 10 years by examining major and primary databases involving all age groups. Out of 265 identified SR studies, 63 met inclusion criteria, the majority were conducted in European and North American regions. All age groups were examined in the studies but mainly conducted in adults when compared to children and infants . Both ASPs process and outcomes measures were examined equally and simultaneously through 25 different concepts, dominated by efficacy , antimicrobial resistance , and economic impact while information technology as well as role of pharmacy and behavioural factors were equally examined . The main broad conclusions from the review , that across the globe, ASPs demonstrated effectiveness, proved efficacy, and confirmed efficiency while focused evaluation advocate that developed countries should target medium and small sized hospitals while developing countries should continue rolling ASPs in their healthcare facilities . Additionally , the future of ASPs should focus on embracing evolving information technology to bridge gaps in knowledge, alter attitude and enhance decision making .

Despite the successful reconciliation of special relativity and quantum mechanics (QM), a good century ago, general relativity (GR) in its current classical formulation still does not compile with QM. While GR gives precise sensical predictions at large scales, QM is obviously dominated at small scales! We think that the everlasting battle for exploring and understanding the Universe and for privileging a consistent perception of reality is therefore awaiting a consolidator rather than a conqueror. This should be capable of either unifying the two different benchmarks or at least bringing one closer to the other! The latter describes the consolidating approach, which is based on extending QM to relativistic energies and gravitational fields and generalizing Riemann to discretized Finsler geometry. Some properties of the additional geometric structures and curvatures which are disclosed by the proposed quantization and apparently overlooked in Einstein's GR, are analytically and numerically characterized. The analytical analyses introduce dynamics with possible nonlinear connections. We conclude that i) additional geometric structures and curvatures are intrinsic essential and ii) the spacetime at the quantum scale is no longer smooth or continuous. A maximal proper force is predicted, which maximally gravitationally accelerates a test particle and importantly manifests the quantum geometric nature of the generalized spacetime curvature.

In this paper, we study singularities of the spherical indicatrix and evolute of spacelike ruled surface with spacelike ruling. Finally, we give an example to illustrate our results.

In this study, we mainly focus on the behavior of an electron gas produced by argon plasma that is bounded by a moving rigid flat plate. The effects of an external magnetic field on the electrons collected with each other, with positive ions, and with neutral atoms in the plasma fluid are investigated. We used the BGK model of the Boltzmann kinetic equation, which is fundamental in the study of the gas dynamics from the continuum flow to the free-molecular regimes with Maxwellian velocity distribution functions of the various species. An exact analytical solution of the model equations for the unsteady flow is given using the moment and the traveling wave methods. The behavior of the mean velocity of electrons is illustrated, which compatible with the variation of the shear stress, viscosity coefficient, and the initial and boundary conditions. Besides, the thermodynamic prediction is investigated by applying the principles of irreversible thermodynamics and Gibbs formula. It is found that the thermodynamic variables verify the Boltzmann’s H–theorem, the principle of Le Chatelier, and the Thermodynamics Second Law for the non-equilibrium processes of the system. Qualitative agreements with previous related papers are introducing. 3-Dimensional graphics for the calculating variables are offering, and their behavior is deeply discussed.

Soil salinity is seen as a major restriction for crop production, and with water scarcity this problem becomes more complicated. Mulching is crucial to salinity dynamics management by decreasing evaporation with improving the soil’s characteristics. Using chitosan as an eco-friendly biostimulant can enhance plant defense genes during different abiotic stresses. Recently, agricultural research has recognized nanoparticles as a pioneer material due to their distinctive physicochemical features. Therefore, a lysimeter experiment was conducted to investigate the interactive effects of mulching (UNM: un-mulched, WPM: white plastic, RSM: rice straw and SDM: sawdust) and chitosan foliar application (Ch0: control, Ch1: 250 mg chitosan L-1, Ch2: 125 mg nano chitosan L-1, and Ch3: 62.5 mg nano chitosan L-1) on the biochemical soil characteristics and common beans productivity under salt affected soil conditions. Organic mulching (RSM and SDM) treatments significantly improved the soil's organic carbon, available nutrient content, and total count of bacteria. WPM treatment lowered soil EC to 6.63 dS m-1 and increased soil water content to 34.13%. The application of Ch3 caused considerable increases in the plant height, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, grain yield, and nutrient content in the seed. The total fungi count in the soil and Na% in the seed was significantly decreased due to chitosan foliar applications. Moreover, the interactive effect of different mulch materials plus foliar by chitosan applications gave a statistically similar seed yield in both seasons. Overall, this study revealed the potential of the mulching treatments and foliar application of nano chitosan in improved biochemical soil characteristics and common bean productivity under saline soil conditions.

Water microbial contamination is a serious issue that poses a risk to both animal and human health. 120 water samples collected from main water source and drinkers from a poultry farm. Different bacterial pathogens were isolated from water sources. Escherichia (E.) coli, Pseudomonas (P.) aureoginosa, (Salmonella) S. Typhimurim, Aeromonas (A.) hydrophila at different percentages. Variable degree of bacterial resistance to some commercial disinfectants commonly used to disinfect water system (iodine, terminator and H2O2). Nanoparticles were used to control bacteria in water. About the safety investigation for the prepared nanomaterials, the work results demonstrated that zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit the highest safety profile among the manufactured materials. The median fatal dose (LD50) for ZnO NPs was determined to be 3709 mg/kg body weight. In comparison, the LD50 values for zeolites and nanocomposites were 3251 mg/kg and 2658 mg/kg, respectively. Therapeutic dosages were estimated based on the LD50. Zeolite NPs, ZnO NPs and ZnO/zeolite NPs showing promising results in control of those bacteria. It was concluded that the escalating resistance of bacteria to disinfectants have led to a need to find alternative such as nanoparticles that proved promising results in control of pathogens, particularly it showed a safe effect on laboratory animals.

We report the isolation of two novel degrading bacterial strains active against the potential environmental pollutant acetamino-phen/paracetamol. Streptomyces Chrestomyceticus (RS2) and Streptomyces Flavofuscus (M33) collected from El-Natrun Valley, Egypt, water, sediment, and sand samples were taxonomically characterized via conidiophores morphologic characterization under Trans-mission Electron Microscope (TEM). Genotypic identification, done based on their 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis followed by BLAST alignment and deposited on the NCBI as 2 novel strains. The phylogenetic tree was constructed using an appropriate software. Acetaminophen degradation-products chemical structure was identified by GC/LC MS. The biological antimicrobial activity of some selected acetaminophen degradation-products extracts and derived compounds was examined against panel of test micro-organisms and found to be have high anti-microbial effect. In addition, in silico cheminformatics Swiss ADMET evaluation of these selected deg-radation extract for gastric absorption, distribution, hepatic metabolism, renal excretion as well as distribution to CNS and finally not mutagenic/teratogenic or genotoxic virtually. In vitro cytotoxic activity of these selected bio-degradation products was performed against HepG2 and MCF7 cancer cell lines, revealing that M33 and RS2 extract effect on acetaminophen/paracetamol bio-degradation products are potentially safe with higher IC50 on HepG2 and MCF7, in comparison to acetaminophen/paracetamol with IC50 of 108.5 μg/ml. Moreover, the in vivo acute oral single dose toxicity experiment was conducted, being compared with acetamino-phen/paracetamol to confirm that the bio-degradation products have lower toxicity than acetaminophen in vivo and in silico.

Competition between cotton, winter, and summer crops is the greatest obstacle for plant breeders in Egypt. Breeders are thus seeking early maturing, high-yielding cultivars that are suited for planting following winter crops. This study was conducted during the 2016 and 2018 growing seasons at the Sakha agriculture research station, Egypt's agricultural research facility. This research used breeding material from the F2, F3, and F4 generations that resulted from crossing Giza 94 and Uzbekistan. During the 2016 growing season, the F2 population was cultivated, and the top 5% of the F2 population (75 plants) were chosen based on the selection criteria. In the summer of 2017, the F3 families were cultivated, and 5% of the superior F3 families were chosen to become the F4 fam-ilies, which were planted in the summer of 2018 at the single plant and bulk studies in a randomised full block design with three replications. The average performance of the characteristics boll weight, seed cotton yield, lint percentage, and lint index increased as generations passed from F2 to F4. In the meanwhile, the characteristic value of the first flower to open decreased, showing the accu-mulation of advantageous alleles. For all examined characteristics, the phenotypic coefficient of variance was greater than the genotypic coefficient of variation. In addition, the data demonstrated that heritability in a broad sense was greater in F4 populations than in F3 and F2 populations. With a few exceptions, the phenotypic and genotypic associations for all investigated characteristics were positive and very significant. According to the data, initial opening flowering and boll weight had a substantial impact on seed cotton output per feddan. In general, five superior families No. 9, 13, 18, 19, and 20 were chosen from the F4 population, which were more significant for yield and yield component than the commercial variety, and these genotypes may be promising for the breeding programme to develop new genotypes with superior yield.

Currently, algae arouse a growing interest in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic area due to the fact that they have a great diversity of bioactive compounds with the potential for pharmacological, cosmetic, and nutraceutical applications. Many of these bioactive compounds are secondary metabolites whose amounts in the algae vary with varying environmental conditions. Free radicals and other active oxygen derivatives are recognized as a natural by-product of aerobic metabolism. However, reactive oxygen species directly participate in mechanisms related to various pathological states such as cancer, diabetes, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's, among others. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease resulting from changes in glucose metabolism and/or deficient production/action of insulin. This review has as its main objective to reveal the potential antioxidant and antidiabetic capacity of algae extracts.

Listwaenite rocks are widely spread in Fenja area of the Semail ophiolite of Oman and in Islam Abad area of the Neyriz ophiolite of Iran. There are three types of listwaenites found in these regions: silica-, carbonate-, and carbonate-silica (which includes dolomite, calcite, and magnesite. The alteration of host harzburgites started with hydrothermal alteration to serpentinite, followed by carbonation and silicification of serpentinite. Calcite- and magnesite-dolomite- listwaenites are more abundant in the Fenja area of Oman, while dolomite-listwaenites are more abundant in Islam Abad area in Iran. The mineralogy of listwaenites varies in both Iran and Oman; common minerals include quartz, calcite, goethite, magnesite, dolomite, serpentine, hematite, magnetite, Cr-mica, and Cr-spinel The major element chemistry of the different types of listwaenites in both Fenja and Islam Abad area generally comparable, and is largely similar to that of hydrothermally carbonated harzburgites, serpentinite, and listwaenites worldwide, despite spanning extraordinary and highly variable contents in major oxides, such as CaO, SiO2, MgO and LOI. Relict texture and common occurrence of Cr-spinel as well as the high concentrations of Cr, Ni and Co suggest that the protolith of the listwaenites in both regions was serpentinized harzburgites and serpentines. In comparison to the primary mantle and chondrite in spider diagrams, the Neyriz listwaenites have higher trace and REE element abundances than comparable listwaenites in the Fenja region. Harzburgite-normalized patterns of trace elements and REE in serpentinite and listwaenites overlap the average composition of harzburgite. PM-normalized trace element and REE patterns for serpentinized harzburgite and serpentinite show enrichment in Cs, U, Pb and Sr, with no Eu anomaly, comparable to mantle wedge serpentinites. The variable and high abundances of Ca, Mg, Ba, Zr, Sr, Pb, Zn, Mo and W in the carbonate- and silica-carbonate listwaenites, with unique Si enrichment and Mg, Na2O, Zr, Y, Ba, Sr, Rb, Cu, Pb, Sc, Cs, Nb, Mo and W. depletion in silica listwaenites are indicative of large fluctuations in major and trace element mobility. Cr, Ni and Co were immobile during alteration Enrichment in Ca and Si could occur by internal or late outside supply. Ca, Mg and Si are conceivably the foremost mobile major components amid harzburgite and serpentinite carbonation with mobilization confirmed by formation of quartz and Mg-carbonate in silica-carbonate listwaenites and quartz in silica listwaenites. The listwaenites in Islam Abad and Fenja area were formed due to hydrothermal alteration of serpentinite along thrust faults and shear zones which acted as pathway for Ca and/or Si rich fluids. The intensity of deformation in Islamabad listwaenites has been higher than Fenja listwaenites as indicated by higher abundance of trace elements.

Background: Although National Licensing Examinations (NLEs) may be a costly process, they can predict better performance for many following years. The current licensing requirements will not entail and new requirements will be requested. Therefore, this study suggests a framework for the development of the Medical Licensing Exam by exploring the opinions of Egyptian medical practitioners and educators regarding the exam format and criteria. Objective and methods: to describe the needed steps to develop the EMLE through a two-phase exploratory mixed-method study that had been conducted among the Egyptian medical sectors: medical practitioners and educators. Results: There were 50 clinical and academic educators shared in the online discussion about EMLE development. Then, a survey was carried out on 266 participants with various working places in which 198 of the participants were staff in the Higher Education Ministry and 68 physicians in the Ministry of Health. The input from both had contributed to the development of the following framework that is divided into two main sections; the Exam Logistics and the Exam Set up. The exam Logistics included the exam committee, prerequisites for the exam, the admission criteria and fees, and the validity of the license. While the Exam Set up included exam setting, structure, standard-setting, pass marks and reset policy. Conclusion: A Multidisciplinary team resources for the exam setting. Fairness and objectivity were highlighted through several factors; development of the exam blueprint, types of assessment methods, post-exam analysis, and standard-setting. Finally, the reset policy, fees, and validity of the license were recommended with a student-centered perspective that was suggested for the exam committee.

The proliferation of mobile and IoT devices, coupled with the advances in the wireless communication capabilities of these devices, have urged the need for novel communication paradigms for such heterogeneous hybrid networks. Researchers have proposed opportunistic routing as a means to leverage the potentials offered by such heterogeneous networks. While several proposals for multiple opportunistic routing protocols exist, only a few have explored fuzzy logic to evaluate wireless links status in the network to construct stable and faster paths towards the destinations. We propose FQ-AGO, a novel Fuzzy Logic Q-learning Based Asymmetric Link Aware and Geographic Opportunistic Routing scheme that leverages the presence of long-range transmission links to assign forwarding candidates towards a given destination. The proposed routing scheme utilizes fuzzy logic to evaluate whether a wireless link is useful or not by capturing multiple network metrics, the available bandwidth, link quality, node transmission power, and distance progress. Based on the fuzzy logic evaluation, the proposed routing scheme employs a Q-learning algorithm to select the best candidate set toward the destination. We implement FQ-AGO on the NS-3 simulator and compare the performance of the proposed routing scheme with three other relevant protocols: AODV, DSDV, and GOR. For precise analysis, we consider various network metrics to compare the performance of the routing protocols. Our simulation result validates our analysis and demonstrates remarkable performance improvements in terms of total network throughput, packet delivery ration, and end-to-end delay.

Digital transformation systems generate a substantial volume of data, creating opportunities for potential innovation, particularly those driven by artificial intelligence. This study focuses on the intricate relationship between artificial intelligence and innovation as foundational elements in the digital transformation framework for sustained growth and operational excellence. This study provides a holistic perspective on the cultivation and pillars of AI-powered innovation, highlighting their pivotal role in revolutionizing industries, including healthcare, education, finance, manufacturing, transportation, and agriculture. The work emphasizes the key pillars essential for fostering AI-powered innovation, including monitoring performance measurement to use the power of the present, continuous learning and innovation, data analytics and insights, predictive analytics, and innovative product development. This study investigates how these pillars serve as the foundation for groundbreaking advancements, driving efficiency, enhancing decision-making processes, and fostering creativity within organizations. This study explores the significance of continuous learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industry partnerships in nurturing a thriving AI-powered innovation ecosystem. By understanding and harnessing these fundamental elements, businesses can navigate the complexities of the digital age, fostering innovation that not only optimizes processes but also enhances the overall human experience, ushering in a new era of technological excellence and societal progress.

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the world of medical education, moving it years ahead of time into the future. Many concepts needed to be changed, so did the methodologies. Nevertheless, clinical assessment remained tricky. This work highlights the outcome of the work of College of Medicine and Medical Sciences at the Arabian Gulf University in Bahrain in performing virtual clinical examination using Zoom™. Tips in this article are meant to help plan, implement and evaluate clinical assessments virtually.

A comparative efficacy of apathogenic genotype I (V4) and lentogenic genotype II (LaSota) strains of live Newcastle disease virus (NDV) vaccines was done following vaccination with pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) H9N2 avian influenza vaccine and challenge with velogenic NDV genotype VII.1.1 (vNDV-VII.1.1). Eight groups (Gs) of day-old chicks were used (n=25). Groups 1-4 received a single dose of PAMP-H9N2 subcutaneously, while Gs (1, 5) and (2, 6) received eye drops of V4 and LaSota respectively as twice doses. All Gs except 4 and 8 were intramuscularly challenged with vNDV-VII.1.1 at 28th days of age. No signs were detected in Gs 1, 5, 4, and 8. The mortality rates were 0% in Gs 1, 4, 5, and 8; 40% in G2; 46.66% in G6; and 100% in Gs 3 and 7. Lesions were recorded as minimal in Gs 1 and 5, but mild to moderate in Gs 2 and 6. The lowest significant viral shedding was detected in Gs 1, 2, and 5. In conclusion, two successive vaccinations of broilers with a live V4 NDV vaccine provided a higher protection against vNDV-VII.1.1 challenge than LaSota. Besides, PAMP-H9N2 with live NDV vaccines induced more protection than live vaccine alone.

In the present study, fish were exposed to sub-lethal doses of CuONPs (68.92 ± 3.49 nm) (10, 20, and 50 mg/L) for a long exposure period (25 days). Compared to the control group (0.0 mg/L CuONPs), a significant dose-dependent elevation in blood urea and creatinine values, serum alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase enzyme activities were evident in CuONPs-exposed groups (P &lt; 0.05). Fish exposure to 50 mg/L CuONPs significantly upregulated the transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1beta, interleukin 12, and interleukin 8), heat shock protein 70, apoptosis-related gene (caspase 3), and oxidative stress-related (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) genes in liver and gills of the exposed fish in comparison with those in the control group (P &lt; 0.05). Moreover, varying histopathological injuries were noticed in the hepatopancreatic tissues, posterior kidneys, and gills of fish groups correlated to the examined exposure dose of CuONPs. In summary, our results provide new insights and helpful information for better understanding the mechanisms of CuONPs toxicity in Nile tilapia at hematological, molecular levels, and tissue levels.

Generalized Bayes is a Bayesian approach based on the learning rate parameter η. In this study, we examine the effect of parameter η on the estimation results considering joint type-I and type-II hybrid censored samples from k exponential populations. In addition to the learning rate parameter, we consider two loss functions, the Linex and general entropy loss functions in the Bayesian approach. Monte Carlo simulations are performed to compare the performances of the estimation results under losses and different values of η. An illustrative example is performed to study the effect of the learning rate parameter and the different losses with different parameters.

Sensors became integrated through the control condition arrangement, either for visual, mechanical, biological, or chemical applications. New stuff is designed for detection, as Diluted Magnetic Semiconductors (DMS), and are considered attractive candidates that consist of a traditional 111- V, II-VI, or group IV semiconductor. Manganese Mn-doped GaN (Mn.Gac.N) epitaxial velum has a unique magnetic, visual and chemical properties in order to control system intelligent for detector design. The subject area of the magnetic properties of MnxGal-xN is on a large scale available, there are only a few studies on the visual properties and electrochemical properties of MnxGal-xN epitaxial velums. Where MnGaN velums were used in spintronic and opto-electronic applications according to their magnetic characterization and constructed MnGaN electrode are drop fabric potential for potentiometric sensor applications since they have good performance as ion-selective electrodes. The electrical and magnetic properties that allow the control of electron spin as well as complaint period, makes the materials ideal for spintronic applications. Designing such spintronic and optoelectronic devices based on MnxGal-xN requires a broader agreement of physical, visual, electrical and chemical properties epitaxial velums that are still seldom in the literature. This bailiwick displays the potential use of MnGaN semiconductor as an all solid-state potentiometric sensor for measuring anions in solutions in the control engineering field.

Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are currently available for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. SGLT2i act by inhibiting renal SGLT2, thereby increasing glucosuria and lowering serum glucose. Recent trials are emerging supporting a role for SGLT2i irrespective of the diabetic status pointing towards that SGLT2i have other mechanisms of actions beyond blood sugar control. In this review, we will shed light on the role of this group of medications that act as SGLT2i in non-diabetics focusing on pre-clinical and clinical data highlighting the mechanism of renoprotection and effects of SGLT2i in the non-diabetic kidneys.

Researches are moving to iron and ammonia elimination from ground water. Here, we are using poly acrylic–poly acrylamide hydrogel which grafted with 3-chloroaniline. This copolymer was synthesized by addition polymerization. Effect of agitation time, dosage and adsorbents temperature on the removal process sensitivity has been investigated. The copolymer was described experientially and theoretically. Isothermal, kinetic adsorption models and were discussed. This hydrogel could be regenerated efficiently (98.3%removal of iron and 100% removal of ammonia). Density functional theory DFT method using B3LYP/6-311G(d,p),LANL2DZ level of the theory were managed to investigate stationary states of grafted co-polymer and the complexation energy of the hydrogel with the studied cations. NBO analysis is using DFT to investigate the negative centers on the hydrogel. The complexation energy showed selectively of hydrogel to studied cations.

Breast cancer is the most widespread malignancy in women from corner to corner of the world. Nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) proved its efficacy in the treatment of cancer. NLC loaded with Imatinib (IMA) (NANIMA) was prepared and evaluated for in vitro efficacy in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Hot homogenization method was used for the preparation of NANIMAs. Aqueous solution of surfactants (hot) was mixed with molten mixture of stearic acid and sesame oil (hot) under homogenization. The prepared NANIMAs were characterized and evaluated for size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, release studies, stability studies and MTT assay (cytotoxicity studies). The optimized NANIMA revealed particle size of 104.63 ± 9.55 d.nm, PdI of 0.227 ± 0.06 and EE of 99.79 ± 0.03. All NANIMAs revealed slow and sustained release behaviour. The surfactants used in the preparation of NANIMAs exhibited their effects on particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, stability studies and release studies. The cytotoxicity studies unveiled 8.75 times increase in cytotoxicity for optimized NANIMA (IC50 = 6 µM) when compared with IMA alone (IC50 = 52.5 µM) on MCF-7 breast cancer cells. After this, NLC containing IMA possibly will be employed for the cure of breast cancer. A lesser amount of IMA loaded NLC will be sufficient than IMA alone for the treatment of breast cancer. Moreover, the patient will exhibit not as much of adverse effects as in case of IMA alone. Consequently, NANIMA could prove to be useful for effective therapeutic outcome in breast cancer treatment.

Keywords: AI Readiness Assessment; Business Processes; and Data Infrastructure.

In this paper, the problem of predicting future failure times based on a jointly type-II censored sample from k exponential populations is considered. The Bayesian prediction intervals and point predictors were then obtained. Generalized Bayes is a Bayesian study based on a learning-rate parameter. This study investigated the effects of the learning rate parameters on the prediction results. The loss functions of squared error, Linex, and general entropy were used as point predictors. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to show the effectiveness of the learning rate parameter in improving the results of prediction intervals and point predictors.

CO₂ emissions have been identified as the main driver for climate change, with devastating consequences for the global natural environment. The steel industry is responsible for ca. 8%-11% of global CO₂ emissions, due to high fossil-fuel and energy consumption. The onus is therefore on industry to remedy the environmental damage caused and to decarbonise production. This desk research report follows a two-tiered route: 1) exploring the Bio Steel Cycle; 2) proposing a seven-step strategy to overcome the challenges within the iron and steel industry. The true levels of CO₂ emissions in the steelmaking process, during the blast-furnace/basic-oxygen-furnace operation, will be detailed first, at 4.61t of CO₂ emissions/t of steel produced. The manuscript proposes a solution for reduced carbon emissions steelmaking with the Bio Steel Cycle components and detail on how to reach net-zero carbon emissions steel production. The 7-step-implementation-strategy as a potential solution to achieve net and true zero carbon emissions steel production in the short to medium-term. The findings of this are pointing towards the conclusion that CO₂ emissions seem to have been under-reported and under-estimated in the past, but the emission can be addressed if the correct scenarios for net-zero steel manufacturing are implemented by 2050.

The sound field properties for non-cavitating marine propellers are studied using FW-H (Ffowcs William-Hawkings) acoustic analogy and BEM (Boundary Element Method) approach. For the first time, the FW-H formula to calculate acoustic pressure generated by the propeller wake sheet is proposed. The corresponding sound signal can be dominant up to several kilometres. Secondly, non-physical fictitious volume flux is observed when the permeable FW-H approach is used together with BEM. The reason is explained and a virtual source correction method is proposed to solve this problem. Furthermore, analytical analyse show that the second thickness term and the first two loading terms in Farassat 1A formula are important, and the others are negligible. The numerical studies show that the permeable FW-H approach produces underestimation when compared to the direct FW-H method, and the underestimation is severer for larger permeable surface and higher frequency. It is also found that the first loading term in Farassat 1A formula is the dominant source term in the direct FW-H method, while the first thickness term is dominant when the permeable FW-H approach is used.

Traditional silicon binary circuits continue to face challenges such as high leakage power dissipation and large area of interconnections. Multiple-Valued Logic (MVL) and nano-devices are two feasible solutions to overcome these problems. In this paper, we present a novel method to design ternary logic circuits based on Carbon Nanotube Field Effect Transistors (CNFETs). The proposed designs use the unique properties of CNFETs, e.g., adjusting the Carbon Nanotube (CNT) diameters to have the desired threshold voltage and have the same mobility of P-FET and N-FET transistors. Each of our designed logic circuits implements a logic function and its complementary via a control signal. Also, these circuits have a high impedance state which saves power while the circuits are not in use. We show a more detailed application of our approach by designing a two-digit adder-subtractor circuit. We simulate the proposed ternary circuits using HSPICE via standard 32nm CNFET technology. The simulation results indicate the correct operation of the designs under different process, voltage and temperature (PVT) variations. Moreover, we designed a two-digit adder/subtractor and a power efficient ternary logic ALU based on the proposed gates. Simulation results show that the two-digit adder/subtractor using our proposed gates has 12X and 5X lower power consumption and PDP (power delay product) respectively, compared to previous designs.

People localization is a key building block in many applications. In this paper, we propose a deep learning based approach that significantly improves the localization accuracy and reduces the runtime of Wi-Fi based localization systems. Three variants of the deep learning approach are proposed, a sub-task architecture, an end-to-end architecture, and an architecture that incorporates prior knowledge. The performance of the three architectures under different conditions is evaluated and the significant improvement of the three architectures over existing approaches is demonstrated.

The formation of a rigid tough interface based on a nacre-like structure in carbon fiber (CF) composites is a promising way to eliminate low delamination resistance. An effective method of coating CFs is electrophoretic deposition (EPD), which, in the case of dissimilar components like graphene oxide (GO) and polymeric glue, usually requires their chemical bonding/ strong interactions. In this work, we focus on chitin nanocrystals (ChNCs), leading to an excellent mechanical performance of artificial nacre, where favorable interactions and bonding with GO were controlled by degrees of deacetylation (5, 15 and 30 %). We have prepared coatings based on GO/ChNCs adducts with 95/5, 90/10,50/50 and 25/75 ratios using optimized EPD conditions (pH, concentration, voltage and time). The prepared materials were characterized using FTIR, TEM, XPS, SEM, DLS, and XRD. SEM evaluation indicates the formation of a homogeneous interlayer, which possesses a fair ability of chemical bonding with the epoxy matrix. Short beam testing of epoxy matrix composites indicates that coating does not decrease stiffness and its relatively low dependence on composition. Therefore, all coatings are promising for a detailed study of delamination resistance using laminate samples. Moreover, facile EPD from water solution/ suspension has a fair potential for industrial applications.

The paper's objectives are to identify the main benefits, limitations, and challenges facing using Blockchain technology in the Supply Chain Management (SCM). To explore the factors that affect the adoption and application of Blockchain technology in SCM. The study uses a systematic literature review methodology to analyze and compare selected related articles published between 2016 and 2022 on the usage of Blockchain technology in the SCM. Several studies showed that there are many benefits to using Blockchain technology in SCM such as enhanced security, confidentiality, traceability, transparency, data accuracy, privacy, efficiency, accountability, and trust. At the same time, there are many limitations and challenges like scalability, interoperability, legal (regulatory) issues, high implementation and maintenance costs, standardization and information, lack of trust in technology, high energy consumption, limited awareness, integration with current systems, and privacy. Blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize various industries, but there are still several issues that need to be addressed to fully realize its potential. Understanding the benefits and difficulties of applying Blockchain technology in different industries, including the SCM, is essential in determining its effectiveness and the different strategies needed to assess its application and implementation.

Energy market price volatility and an upward trajectory of prices per unit of electricity have sent all industrial sectors and many economies to the brink of recession. Alongside the urgent need for decarbonisation of all industries, achieving a higher level of energy independence across all sectors seems imperative. A multi-disciplinary approach with a proposed system of CO₂ emissions reduction and capture technologies has the potential for short-term emissions reduction to near-zero in absolute terms. The findings of this research showed CO₂ emissions reduction of ~30% from 977t of CO_2e to 684t in one single blast furnace production cycle, by switching the energy provider generating energy exclusively from renewable sources. Replacing coal with biomass (BECCS), resulted in an additional reduction of ~30%, to CO_2e to 479t CO_2e. Installing solar PV panels for energy generation on site resulted in a further ~30% reduction, to 335 tonnes CO_2e. Finally, the installation of CO₂ filters reduced the CO₂ emissions to near-zero. Simultaneously, energy-saving and process improvement measures implementation (up to 60% efficiency increase), excess heat recovery (&lt;30% of energy savings), and retrofitting renewable energy technology resulted in an energy independence of 88%. Short-term engineering solutions, partly subsidised in the UK, are readily available.

Objectives: Human herpes viruses can cause life-threatening diseases in immunocompromised children, especially leukemic patients. Therefore, the aim of this study is to detect the human herpes viruses (HHV1-7) and to investigate its clinical significance in Middle Eastern Pediatric Leukemia Patients by using 2 Independent PCR assays. Methods: Detection of human herpes virus DNA has been done in blood samples of 200 pediatric leukemia patients in addition to 90 blood donors as a control group using multiplex PCR assays. When a ‘‘positive’’ result was observed, real-time PCR was performed to measure the viral load. Results: The most frequent herpes virus infection in Middle Eastern Pediatric Leukemia cases was CMV, followed by EBV, then HHV6, VZV, HHV7, HSV1, and HSV2, where they were 92/200 (46%), 76/200 (38%), 72/200 (36%), 48/200 (24%), 12/200 (6%), 8/200 (4%), and 2/200 (1%) respectively. Also, there was a statistically significance difference between leukemic patients and their controls regarding CMV, EBV, HHV6, and VZV (P <0.05). Correlation between percentage of co-infection, and clinical parameters for the 7 herpes viruses has been studied, and there is an increase in absolute neutrophilic count (ANC), total leukocyte count (TLC) and duration of fever and neutropenia in age group 6-11 years for HHV6/CMV, then in age group 12-18 years especially for EBV/CMV and CMV/HHV6. Also, our results show that multiplex PCR assay is close to single PCR assay in relation to specificity and sensitivity which in turn prove its validity for early diagnosis of herpes viral infection. Conclusions: Adopting multiplex PCR technique is helpful in screening of virus infections. It will save time, effort, cost effective and will assist in rapid diagnosis. However, the clinical relevance of the virus infection needs to be evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR which in turn will help patient's management by using appropriate antiviral treatment.

This paper presents preliminary operational performance results of a pilot grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system designed and installed on the rooftop of the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mining headquarter in Nouakchott (latitude of 18.1°N and the longitude of 16.0°W), Mauritania. The aim is for the government to demonstrate the relevance of using solar energy and to encourage the uptake of solar PV technology for commercial and residential building applications in Mauritania.. In this study, the grid-connected PV system has a peak power of 48 kW and the performance monitoring was carried out during one year, with a system that allow to measure DC power, inverter and system conversion efficiency, energy generated by the PV arrays, solar radiation in the inclination plane of panels, ambient temperature and module temperature. During this period, the PV plant was found to supply 65,668 kWh to the grid. The final yield ranged from 3.91 to 5.09 kWh/kWp/day. The performance ratio was found to vary from 69.69% to 89.35% and the annual capacity factor was found to be 19%. Finally, performance parameters were compared with other PV plants installed in the same region of Northern Africa. The outcome of this work is deemed important in assisting accurate PV system design and decision-making.

In the upper charged layers of the atmosphere, the plasma is very rarefied. The collisions between its molecules are almost non-existent, and the driving forces behind them are the Lorentz forces resulting from the electric and magnetic fields. For this reason, we are interested in studying the behavior of non-collision plasmas because of its essential applications, such as the movement of satellites in the charged atmosphere. In this paper, the flow problem of collisionless gaseous plasma is examined. For that propose, we solve the unsteady Vlasov-Maxwell system of non-linear partial differential equations analytically. Methods of moments and traveling wave parameters are used to acquire an exact solution. Specific macroscopic properties of collisionless gaseous plasma are calculated along with electrical and magnetic fields. Further, thermodynamic estimation, such as entropy and entropy production, is presented. Those calculations allow us to measure the consistency with the laws of non-equilibrium thermodynamics. Relations between internal energy modification participations are predicted using Gibbs' equation for collisionless plasma. The modification effect of internal energies due to electro-magnetic fields is found to be small compared with the internal energy change due to the effect of entropy. That is because these fields are self-induced by plasma particles due to the sudden movement of the rigid plane plate. The results are accomplished according to the typical argon gaseous plasma model. Three-dimensional diagrams showing the measured variables are drawn to investigate and discuss their behavior. The problem has many commercial applications for the movement of objects in the charged atmosphere.

This study aims to explore the E-marketing orientations and relationship management constructs in Jordanian startup enterprises to examine their influence on brand visibility and loyalty in the context of the digital market . The sample consists of 161 managers in startup companies, and structural equation modeling is used to study the relationships between the constructs of e-marketing orientation, capabilities, E-relationship management, brand visibility, and loyalty. The results illustrate that the realization of e-marketing orientation is directly achieved by capabilities and visibility, thereby stressing the importance of a formulated digital market approach and that the realization of effective e-relationship management directly expression by e-marketing capabilities, demonstrating the significance of the digital market concept’s approach. The results further demonstrate that e-marketing capabilities and visibility serve as mediators between the realization of e-marketing orientations and loyalty, Two explanations may be drawn, one from the R resource-Based View theory, and another derived from R elationship M arketing T heory Thus, the study has theoretical implications in terms of R esource-Based V iew and R elationship M arketing T heory. The study offers essential managerial insights for practitioners into the entrepreneurship domain concerned with the necessity of e-marketing capabilities and E-RM attitudes at a customer-centered approach and the strategic application of digital channels to enhance visibility in the intense competition context. Therefore, the empirical results have contributions as essential insights for both stakeholders and account for practical, theoretical, and managerial perspectives in the entrepreneurship domain.

The response of building elements during earthquakes has been an area of concern for different researchers around the world. The NSEs are the first elements to attain failure, the buildings after damages in safety priority are classified as in “Life Safety” mode, but in reality, they are in “Collapse Safety” mode and the occupants inside the buildings are in a state of “Non-Life Safety” as a result of falling of the hazardous NSE’s like cladding's, partitions, hanging objects. In addition to the Life Cycle Cost Assessment (LCCA), the Social Life Cycle Assessment (SLCA) is overlooked by the majority of the researchers, the community must be prepared to respond to an event more efficiently without any major casualties or loss of life. It is expected that by the end of 2050, almost double the construction will take place, the embodied energy during the pre-construction, post-construction and demolition generates a lot of CO2s into the environment, hence sustainability should be given due importance, helping in the achievement of Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDGs).

When the minimal length approach emerging from noncommutative Heisenberg algebra, generalized uncertainty principle (GUP), and thereby integrating gravitational fields to this fundamental theory of quantum mechanics (QM) is thoughtfully extended to Einstein field equations, the possible deformation of the metric tensor could be suggested. This is a complementary term combining the effects of QM and general relativity (GR) and comprising noncommutative algebra together with maximal spacelike four–acceleration. This deformation compiles with GR as curvature in relativistic eight–dimensional spacetime tangent bundle, generalization of Riemannian spacetime, is the recipe applied to derive the deformed metric tensor. This dictates how the affine connection on Riemannian manifold is straightforwardly deformed. We have discussed the symmetric property of deformed metric tensor and affine connection. Also, we have evaluated the dependence of a parallel transported tangent vector on the spacelike four–acceleration given in units of L, where L = rℏcG3 is a universal constant, c is speed of light, and ℏ is Planck constant, and G is Newton’s gravitational constant.

This study investigates the applications of reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) in heterogeneous downlink networks (HetNet). Due to the network densification, the small cell base station (SBS) interferes with the macrocell users (MUE). In this paper, we utilize RIS to mitigate cross-tier interference in an HetNet via directional beamforming by adjusting the phase shift of the RIS. We consider an RIS-assisted HetNet consisting of multiple SBS nodes and MUEs that utilize both direct paths and reflected paths. Therefore, the aim of this study is to maximize the sum rate of all MUEs by jointly optimizing the transmit beamforming of the macrocell base station (MBS) and the phase shift of the RIS. An efficient RIS reflecting coefficients-based optimization (RCO) is proposed based on a successive convex approximation approach. Simulation results are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme in terms of its sum rate in comparison with the scheme HetNet without RIS and the scheme HetNet with RIS but with random phase shifts.

Pruning is an important part in controlling the branching, good fruit size, and prodctivity of fruit trees. and consequently, ‘Valencia’ orange trees were grown many years ago, the trees were suffering from a decline in productivity in the newly reclaimed lands after certain years of plantation. This study elucidated the effect of pruning severity on growth, yield and fruit quality of ‘Valencia’ orange trees. Four levels of pruning were applied on 35 years old ‘Valencia’ orange trees as follows: T1: Control (un-pruned), T2: Light pruning ( 25% of main branches were removed); T3: Moderate pruning (50% of main branches were removed) and T4: Heavy pruning: 75% of main branches were removed. The treatments were done in February 15th (for each season). The results indicated that pruning severity increased vegetative growth paraments such as shoot length and leaf area and decreased canopy volume of Valencia orange trees in comparison to control. Maximum yield was gained from 75% followed by 50% and 25% pruning severity treatment. The pruning treatments improve in fruit weight, size, firmness, juice content, TSS%, TSS/acid ratio and vitamin C content. In addition, pruning produced an increasing in fruit yield per tree as well as yield increasing %. Hence, it might be concluded that pruning at different severity applied in February can be used effectively on ‘Valencia’ orange trees to improve vegetative growth, fruit physical and chemical properties. Besides, increasing fruit yield by nearly 20% in comparison to control.

Chenodeoxycholic acid (CA) is a naturally occurring bile acid that is produced in the liver from cholesterol. Three CA complexes using Zn(II), Mg(II), and Ca(II) ions were synthesized to examine the chelation tendencies of CA towards these metal ions. The complexation reaction of CA with the metal ions under investigation was conducted with a 1:1 molar ratio (CA to metal) at 60-70°C in natural media (pH 7-8), which consisted of a binary solvent of MeOH and H2O (1:1). The resulting CA complexes were characterized using analytical data (metal, H, C, and Cl, analysis) and spectral data (UV-visible, FT-IR, and 1H NMR) to elucidate the complexes’ structures. The results suggested that CA in anion form utilized oxygen atoms of the carboxylate group (-COO−) to capture Zn(II), Mg(II), and Ca(II) ions. This produced complexes with the general compositions of [Zn(CA)(H2O)Cl], [Mg(CA)(H2O)Cl]H2O, and [Ca(CA)(H2O)Cl]2H2O, respectively. The Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay was then used to explore the bioactivity of the CA complexes toward three fungal species, three Gram-positive bacteria, and two Gram-negative bacteria. The Ca(II) and Mg(II) complexes exhibited marked inhibitory effects on the cell growth of the fungal species Aspergillus niger with potency equal to 127% and 116% of the activity of the positive control, respectively. The Zn(II) and Ca(II) complexes strongly inhibited the growth of Penicillium sp., while the Zn(II) and Mg(II) complexes showed strong growth inhibition towards the Gram-negative species Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Lomefloxacin (F1) and pefloxacin (F2) have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In this study, we investigated the complexation mode, morphological and biological properties of four metal-based complexes of F1 and F2 molecules with Mg(II), Ca(II), Zn(II), and Fe(III) metal ions. These complexes were prepared at ~60–70°C in a neutral medium using a 5% NH3 solution at pH ~7-8 with a 1:1 ratio. Multiple physicochemical methods were employed to characterize the binding mode between F1 and F2 with the metal ions under investigation. The results of these methods suggested that the gross formula of the complexes obtained with the metal ions were [MgF1(H2O)Cl]2H2O, [CaF1(H2O)Cl]3H2O, [ZnF1(H2O)Cl], [FeF1(H2O)2Cl2]Cl2H2O, [MgF2(H2O)Cl]2H2O, [CaF2(H2O)Cl]3H2O, [ZnF2(H2O)Cl], and [FeF2(H2O)2Cl2]Cl2H2O. The microscopic characterizations indicated that the Ca(II)-F1 complex had an interesting surface topography. Its particles had a homogenous, short, rod-like shaped structure that clustered together to form a tree shape. Using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion protocol, the synthesized metal-based complexes were screened in vitro against different Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial and fungal species. The antimicrobial profile of the Fe(III)-F1 complex indicated that it had remarkable inhibitory activity against all the tested bacterial and fungal species with potency equal to that of the standard drugs (streptomycin and ketoconazole).

The chemical reaction between the quinolone antibiotic oxolinic acid (OA) and Fe(III), Zn(II), Ca(II), and Mg(II) ions results in the formation of metal-based complexes with the following formulas: [Fe(OA)(H2O)2Cl2]2H2O, [Zn(OA)(H2O)Cl]2H2O, [Ca(OA)(H2O)Cl], and [Mg(OA)(H2O)Cl]. We used analytical (C, N, H, Cl, metal analysis) and spectral (FT-IR, 1H NMR, UV-visible) data to structurally characterize the synthesized metal-based complexes of the OA molecule. We found that the OA molecule utilizes the two oxygen atoms of the carboxylate group and the pyridone C=O group to bind the investigated metal ions. The morphological properties of the synthesized OA complexes were assessed using X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The biological properties, specifically antibacterial and antifungal activity, of the synthesized complexes were evaluated in vitro using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion protocol with five bacterial and three fungal strains. The complex containing Ca(II) ions exhibited remarkable antibacterial and antifungal activity against all tested microbial strains, surpassing or equaling the potency of the standard drugs (streptomycin for antibacterial assays and ketoconazole for antifungal assays).

Background: In spinal cord injury, radical treatment is still a persistent hope for patients and clinicians. Our study aimed to determine the different histological changes in central, cranial and caudal sites of compressed spinal cord as a result of neuroectodermal stem cells (NESCs) transplantation in rats. Material and methods: For extraction of NESCs, future brains were extracted from mice embryos (10-days old) and cultured. Eighty, male rats were divided randomly into control, sham (20 rats each); while 40 rats were subjected to compressed spinal cord injury (CSCI). Seven days after spinal cord injury, rats were subdivided into 2 groups (20 rats each); an untreated and treated with NESCs injected cranial and caudal to the site of the spinal cord injury. Rats were sacrificed 4 weeks after transplantations of NESCs and specimens from the spinal cord at the central, cranial and caudal to site of spinal cord injury were proceeded to be stained with haematoxylin & eosin, osmic acid and Immunohistochemistry of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Results: Sections of CSCI revealed areas of hemorrhages, necrosis and cavitation limited by reactive astrocytosis, with upregulation of GFAP expression. Evidence of remyelination and mitigation of histopathological features, reactive astrocytosis in CSCI sections were more pronounced in cranial than in caudal region. Conclusions: NESCs transplantation ameliorated the pathological changes, promoted remyelination.

Tea and coffee are the most commonly used beverages throughout the world. Both decoctions are rich in small organic molecules such as phenolics/polyphenolics, purine alkaloids, many methylxanthines, substituted benzoic and cinnamic acids. Many of these molecules are physiologically chemopreventive and chemoprotective agents against many severe conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer, Parkinsonism, inflammation, sleep apnea, cardiovascular disorders, bradycardia, fatigue, muscular relaxation, and oxidative stress. Caffeine, a purine alkaloid, is a common metabolite of both tea and coffee aqueous decoctions and its concentration in tea/coffee depends on the fermentation process, preparation of the water extract and quality of tea leaves/coffee beans. A 250 ml of a coffee cup contains 100-150 mg caffeine while the same volume of strong tea contains 25-40 mg caffeine. The present paper presents the potential of caffeine as a potent chemopreventive agent that can be used for numerous physiological disorders.

Keywords: Knowledge; Attitudes; Practices; Salt intake.

When generalized noncommutative Heisenberg algebra accommodating impacts of finite gravitational fields as specified by loop quantum gravity, doubly–special relativity, and string theory, for instance, is thoughtfully applied to the eight-dimensional manifold (M8), the generalization of the Riemannian manifold becomes imminent. By constructing the deformed affine connections on a four-dimensional Riemannian manifold, we have determined the minimal length deformation of Riemann curvature tensor and its contractions, the Ricci curvature tensor, and Ricci scalar. Consequently, we have been able to construct the deformed Einstein tensor. As in Einstein’s classical theory of general relativity, we have proved that the covariant derivative of the deformed Einstein tensor vanishes, as well. We conclude that the minimal length correction suggests a correction to the spacetime curvature which is manifest in the additional curvature terms of the corrected Riemann tensor and its contractions. Accordingly, the spacetime curvature endows additional curvature and geometrical structure.

This study investigated the influence of nutrient inputs and their timing on saffron yield and quality. The study was conducted from 2016 to 2020 and involved the application of eight different fertilization treatments at various stages of saffron growth. These treatments included single doses in Autumn (A), Winter (W), and Spring (S); double doses in Winter-Spring (AW), Autumn-Spring (AS), and Winter-Spring (WS); and a triple dose in Autumn-Winter-Spring (AWS). A control group (C) received no fertilizer. A compound fertilizer with a 15-15-15 composition was applied across all treatments, with nitrogen (N) rates of 67.5 kg/ha for single doses (A, W, S), 135 kg/ha for double doses (AWF, ASF, WSF), and 202.5 kg/ha for the triple dose (AWSF). Similar rates were applied for phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The findings demonstrated that fertilization generally enhanced saffron attributes. The triple dose treatment yielded the most effective results. The timing of fertilization also played a crucial role, as split applications during different growth stages led to higher production especially winter fertilization. However, spring fertilization had limited impact due to decreased plant activity and reduced nutrient absorption during that period. Although the yield increased, the qualitative aspects of saffron, including color (crocin), taste (picrocrocin), and aroma (safranal), were not significantly influenced by the fertilization treatments. Nevertheless, these attributes remained within the natural limits defined by ISO-3632, indicating that fertilization practices did not compromise saffron quality. Our study highlights the significance of nutrient inputs and their timing in optimizing saffron yield. It provides valuable insights for developing efficient fertilization programs to enhance saffron production while preserving its quality characteristics.

A significant number of persons with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) experience persistent, recurrent, or new symptoms several months after the acute stage of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) infection. This phenomenon, termed Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) or Long COVID, is associated with high viral titers during acute infection, a persistently hyperactivated immune system, tissue injury by NETosis-induced micro-thrombofibrosis (NETinjury), microbial translocation, complement deposition, fibrotic macrophages, the presence of auto-antibodies, and lymphopenic immune environments. Here, we review the current literature on the immunological imbalances that occur during PASC. Specifically, we focus on data supporting common immunopathogenesis and tissue injury mechanisms shared across this highly heterogenous disorder including NETosis, coagulopathy, and fibrosis. Mechanisms include changes in leukocyte subsets/functions, fibroblast activation, cytokine imbalances, lower cortisol, autoantibodies, co-pathogen reactivation, and residual immune activation driven by persistent viral antigens and/or microbial translocation. Taken together, we develop the premise that SARS-CoV-2 infection results in PASC as a consequence of acute and/or persistent single or multiple organ injury mediated by PASC determinants to include degree of host response (inflammation, NETinjury), residual viral antigen (persistent antigen) and exogenous factors (microbial translocation). Determinants of PASC may be amplified by co-morbidities, age, and sex. Keywords: long COVID, PASC, long haulers, NETosis, T cell, NK cell, DC, neutrophil,

Today, satellite imagery has made a major contribution to the reconstruction and spatial prediction of sensitive or complex areas such as Pendjari and W Transboundary Reserves which constitute biodiversity reservoirs and habitats for wildlife conservation. Despite the protection to which they are subject, they remain dependent on climatic hazards that can influence their stability. This study has applied remote sensing techniques, combined with climate records from the last thirty years, to analyze the past dynamics of land use and climate changes, to predict the future states of the vegetation cover of the two national parks in Benin, as well as their periphery. The methodology used remote sensing and GIS techniques that allowed the supervised classification of Landsat images of 1985, 2000 and 2015. Climatic data were combined in R software to identify the break periods for climatic parameters. Finally, the predictive vegetation cover for the year 2030 was made by combining vegetation and climate in the "Land Change Modeler" extension. Ten land use and land cover classes were obtained. These are the agglomerations, mosaics of fields and fallows, water bodies, dense forests, gallery forests, clear forests and wooded savannahs, swamp forests and shrubby wooded savannahs, saxicolous savannahs and bare ground. The natural vegetation decreased from 90.85% in 1985 to 83.54% in 2000 then to 79.56% in 2015, a decline of 11.39% over a 30-year period. The analysis of the climatic curves revealed the presence of break, meaning drought frequency. The predictive modeling revealed that land use units projected to 2030 are consistent with past trends, but with the continued expansion of fields and fallows (2%) at the expense of vegetation cover. This study will motivate many others in the field.

Prevalence of asthma in Australian children is amongst the highest in the world. Although breastfeeding positively influences infants’ immunity, early introduction of Milk Other than Breast Milk (MOTBM) may also play an important role in the development of Asthma. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the introduction of MOTBM in the first six months after birth and the development of reported persistent asthma in children 3-years old. As sample of 1,121 children were extracted from the Environments for Healthy Living longitudinal birth cohort study. Introduction of MOTBM during the first six months after birth increased the risk of development of persistent asthma by almost two-folds (Adjusted Relative Risk (ARR): 1.71, 95%CI: 1.03-2.83, p= 0.038). This study indicates that the introduction of MOTBM in the first six months of life is a risk factor for asthma incidence among children 3 years old or younger. This result is important in explaining the benefits of breastfeeding as part of public health interventions to encourage mothers to increase breastfeeding initiation and duration and avoid introduction of MOTBM in the first six months after childbirth.

Urbanization affects all elements of the pre-urban environment, including soils, hydrology, vegetation, and microclimate. Recently, Saudi Arabia has experienced rapid urbanization and growth. Thus, the country's biodiversity has been threatened. In Riyadh, beetle assemblages were assessed along a rural-suburban-urban gradient. A total of 2,791 individuals from 94 species belonging to seven families were collected at 15 sites along three different gradients of urbanization in Wadi Hanifa. Tenebrionidae dominated abundance (60.1%) and richness (38%). Beetle abundance, evenness, and diversity were not different among habitats; however, species richness was higher in rural habitats. DCA and CCA analyses showed distinct differences among sites along gradients. Urbanization intensity, soil variables, and land cover were significantly correlated with DCA axis 1, while elevation and flora were significantly correlated with DCA axis 2. The most critical operating environmental variables in Wadi Hanifa were buildings, elevation, soil organic carbon, litter cover, and litter depth, as well as plants such as Launaea capitata, Lycium shawii, Alhagi graecorum, and Heliotropium currasavicum. Ten species in our study are associated with urban habitats, six with suburban habitats, and seven with rural habitats. Consequently, expanding urban areas may negatively affect the richness and composition of beetles and may result in the loss of some native species.

Background. Green spaces contribute to a significant life quality and maintain the sustainability of cities. In Benin, despite the political greening willingness, municipalities are experiencing technical issues in finding suitable spaces to achieve this goal. This study should serve many other towns. It aims at identifying suitable areas for green spaces to integrate landscaping into urban planning in Abomey-Calavi district. Methods. The multi-criteria analysis combining GIS and the hierarchical classification approach were performed. Six factors (land use, altitude, slope, distance from main roads, proximity to urban centres and distance from flood zones, water bodies) were combined using the ArcGIS "Spatial Analysis" extension to generate a map of green space suitability. Results. large areas of land, of which 23.27% are very suitable and 26.06% are suitable for landscaping in this municipality. The ranking of the factors revealed altitude, proximity to road networks, large conurbations and distance from wetlands accounting for 18%, compared with 14% for the other factors regarding the study environment. However, the use of these results must take into account the existing inhabited areas for a good site selection. Conclusion. These outputs guidance to decision-makers in choosing suitable sites for green spaces there and integrating them into sustainable development.

This study presents the solution of the second type of a two-dimensional nonlinear integral equation in Banach space. Also, the existence and uniqueness of this equation’s solution are discussed. We utilize a numerical approach involving hybrid and block-pulse functions to obtain the approximate solution of a two-dimensional nonlinear integral equation. Nonlinear integral equation in two dimensions is reduced numerically to a system of nonlinear algebraic equations that can be solved using numerical methods. This study focuses on showing the convergence analysis for the numerical approach and obtaining an error estimate. Some numerical examples have been provided to demonstrate the approach’s viability and efficacy

Organization resilience indicates the capacity of an organization or system to return to its steady condition or exceed it after going through a disruptive event that disrupts its steady condition. Qatar's oil and gas sector has shown remarkable Resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its preparedness and readiness to deal with such a disruption. As a lesson learned from the recent COVID-19 pandemic, local governmental institutions need to support national preparedness and Resilience to handle emergencies and unpredictable crises by learning from the success model of Qatar's oil and gas sector. This study presents the key Resilience Engineering Indicators (REIs) that make this sector resilient and validates the six Resilience Engineering indexes or dimensions adopted from [1], [2]&amp; [3], which include top management commitment, speaking up culture, learning, awareness, being prepared, and flexibility. The study evaluated the performance of these REIs using a 5-point Likert Scale survey questionnaire based on the relevance to resilience dimensions. The results show 10 REIs contributing to the organization's resilience and the top four most important Resilient Dimensions (RDs). Moreover, this is the first study to evaluate and assess the organizational resilience level in Qatar's oil and gas sector. This study's results can be integrated into different organizations' strategies to improve the efforts to enhance national response to disturbances in governance.

Diabetes mellitus is a global health issue that necessitates the development of novel therapeutic approaches. Today numerous experimental methods have been used and set up to evaluate novel drugs with antidiabetic effects. In addition, several research studies have been done to induce diabetes under in vitro and in vivo conditions, but only a small number of these efforts are currently in a usable stage. This review aims to provide useful guidance for researchers who seek to evaluate the antidiabetic potential of drugs, agents, or new medications using the standard methods published by authorities and academics worldwide organizations and research centers. In this review, we collected 132 relevant articles from prominent databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus and others to summarize in vitro and in vivo experimental validation of antidiabetic treatment from 1943 to present.

Two experiments were conducted to develop a Nano green manganese and assess its effect on grapevines. The first experiment was microbiological, where several incorporation strategies were utilized to enrich the yeast with manganese, as follows: (1) adding manganese to the liquid medium (growth phase), (2) adding after 24 h of incubation (non-growth phase). As the results, growth phase reduced the possibility of medium contamination. Manganese concentration in the yeast cells was increased as that of manganese sulphate in the medium. Manganese incorporation in yeast cells was 99.93% higher than that of the medium at 0.0195 g/l of manganese. Although the concentration of manganese in the medium raised the OD of yeast cell biomass, manganese sulphate had no passive influence on it. The second experiment was horticultural, done on Flame Seedless grapevines, since both active fresh and frozen yeast enriched with manganese resulted from the first experiment were sprayed twice a year at 10 or 20 cm3/l comparing with manganese sulphate, and manganese chelate. The results demonstrated that yeast extracts in both forms increased the yield and improved fruit properties. The most effective treatment on vegetative growth, yield and fruit properties was the frozen yeast enriched with manganese at 20 cm3/l.

A relevant improvement of the cultivar conditions of Rosmarinus officinalis L. in desert areas was achieved by a specific combination between irrigation system and soil conditioner. A drastic reduction of water employment was obtained without affect the quality of the plants, determined by monitoring growth parameters and essential oil characteristics. In particular, the effect of surface and subsurface drip irrigation systems and different soil conditioners on growth parameters, yield, and essential oil constituents of rosemary plant was assessed. Field experiments at the Agricultural Research Station (Al-Adlya farm), SEKEM group Company, El-Sharkiya Governorate, Egypt, conducted over the two seasons revealed the effectiveness of the subsurface irrigation system in obtaining better performances, especially in terms of water saving. The combination of subsurface irrigation and the conditioner Hundz soil with bentonite showed the maximum mean values of growth characters compared with other soil amendments during both seasons. The possibility to employ a water-saving irrigation system as the subsurface one without any drawback in the resulting plants was also explored in terms of molecular composition. GC-MS analysis of the essential oil extracted from plants growth under different irrigation conditions revealed a comparable composition in both cases. The goodness of the most performing system was also confirmed by the comparable yield of the essential oil.

This work aimed to develop an anionic cellulose nanofiber (CNF) bio-adsorbent from palm date tree waste and to investigate its removal efficiency against cationic methylene blue dye from contaminated water. Palm date pulp was first prepared from palm date leaves through acid hydrolysis using H2SO4, followed by hydrolysis in a basic medium using KOH, in which the process completely removed the components of hemicellulose, lignin, and silica. To obtain anionic CNF, the resulting pulp was further treated with H2SO4, followed by centrifugation. Biogel formation of the CNF suspension was promoted by sonication, where its removal efficiency of methylene blue dye was studied as a function of dye concentration, temperature, contact time, and pH value. Two equilibrium models, the Langmuir and Freundlich models were employed, and the Langmuir model was found to be consistent with the experimental data. The highest removal efficiency was obtained at 60oC and was 5mg/gm. Furthermore, several kinetic models were used to gain insight into the adsorption mechanism. The pseudo-second-order model provided an accurate description of the adsorption process, while the Elovich equation suggested a chemical reaction between methylene blue dye and CNF. The study’s findings were in agreement with the pseudo-second-order model, indicating general chemical reactions. The study indicates that CNF adsorbents derived from renewable natural waste sources such as palm date leaves can be effective in removing cationic contaminants such as methylene blue dye.

External audit reliance issues on the internal audit function (IAF) are increasingly important in financial auditing, yet its application in audit engagements lags behind other applications. Despite the belief that audit reliance will shape auditing in the future, limited and intervalley publications explore this transformative potential. This paper investigates the increasing importance of external audit reliance issues in financial auditing. It investigates the use of the IAF in external audit reliance decisions and its potential to enhance audit quality, process transparency, and stakeholders' credibility. Through a systematic literature review of 68 scientific articles from 1984 to 2022, factors influencing external auditors' dependence on the IAF are analyzed, including IAF work quality, assistance type, organizational factors, customer pressure, and business risk. The review highlights the IAF's crucial role in improving financial reporting integrity and external audit effectiveness. However, the challenges that allowed external auditors to decide whether to rely on the works of IAF like limited disclosures and accessible data hinder assessing IAF reliance effects, leading to information asymmetry that may impact stakeholder confidence. The paper discusses implications, limitations, and future research directions to explore technology adoption and optimize audit practices, promoting transparency in the audit process.

Salinity is the most significant abiotic stress affecting crop yield worldwide, breeders are Salinity is the most important abiotic stress limiting crop production throughout the world, and breeders are encouraged to test novel genotypes for their resistance to this selection agent. However, getting a sufficient number of plants for the evaluation can be a lengthy and time-consuming procedure that might be shortened by applying in vitro techniques. An experiment was conducted under controlled saline circumstances using a tissue culture technique to investigate the influence of salt on several physic-biochemical parameters. Micro-shoots of Volkamariana lemon, sour orange, trifoliate orange, and Cleopatra mandarin rootstocks were re-cultured on MS media supplemented with NaCl from 25, up to 150 mM. Following the experiments, all of the tested rootstocks' morphological and biochemical characteristics, stomata behavior, and element accumulation were measured. As a result, adding NaCl from 25 to 150 mM to MS media caused a reduction in all morphogenetic parameters such as shoot number, shoot length, leaves number, and survival percentage was measured compared with control. Photosynthesis pigment, RWC, K, and Ca ions were decreased by increasing NaCl from 100 to 150 mM. On the contrary, proline, Cl, and Na were increased. Cleopatra mandarin and Trifoliate orange are more tolerant to salt stress than Volkamariana lemon and sour orange citrus.

Our prior studies have shown that B type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) decreases absorption from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Since non-muscle myosin-type II (NMM-II) is known to have a role in epithelial tight junction regulation, we aimed to test whether BNP has an effect on the localization and expression of NMM-II in the intestinal villi. We treated wild type mice with a 10 ng/g intravenous bolus of BNP followed by infusion of BNP at 1ng/g/minute vs. vehicle control. The mice were then euthanized and intestinal tissue isolated and sectioned. The tissue was immune-stained for NMM-II and examined using fluorescence microscopy. The tissue section not treated with antibody to NMM-II was used as a methodological control to evaluate the non-specific binding. Scanning electron micrographic images were taken to compare structural differences between the two groups. Western blotting was performed to compare the regional protein expression of NMM-II and associated proteins including smooth muscle actin, kinesin, and E cadherin in small intestinal tissue between BNP vs. vehicle infused mice. Fluorescence microscopy revealed markedly increased localization of NMM-II at the crypts and core of intestinal villi of the jejunum, ileum and colon of BNP treated mice compared to vehicle. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the microvilli of BNP treated mice assumed the distinctive appearance of ‘relaxed’ microvilli compared to vehicle. Such decrease in contractility was previously shown to decrease para-cellular permeability of epithelia. Our observation indicates that BNP alters the localization of NMM-II in intestinal villi and makes the intestinal villi structures assume a state of decreased permeability of the apical junctional complex. Further characterization of this process and understanding the specific mediators involved could lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets for various disease states such as heart failure and malabsorption.

In recent decades, power consumption has become an essential factor in attracting the attention of integrated circuit (IC) designers. Multiple-valued logic (MVL) and approximate computing are some techniques that could be applied to integrated circuits to make power-efficient systems. By utilizing MVL-based circuits instead of binary logic, the information conveyed by digital signals increases, and this reduces the required interconnections and power consumption. On the other hand, approximate computing is a class of arithmetic computing used in systems where the accuracy of the computation can be traded-off for lower energy consumption. In this paper, we propose novel designs for exact and inexact ternary multipliers based on carbon-nanotube field-effect transistors (CNFETs). The unique characteristics of CNFETs make them a desirable alternative to MOSFETs. The simulations are conducted using Synopsys HSPICE. The proposed design is compared against existing ternary multipliers. The results show that the proposed exact multiplier reduces energy consumption by up to 6X. At the same time, the best inexact design improves energy efficiency by up to 35X compared to the latest state-of-the-art methods. Using the imprecise multipliers for image processing provides evidence that these proposed designs are a low-power system with an acceptable error.

Curcumin and trans-cinnamaldehyde are acrolein-based Michael acceptor compounds that are commonly found in domestic condiments, and known to cause cancer cell death via redox mechanisms. Based on the structural features of these compounds we designed and synthesized several 2-cinnamamido-N-substituted-cinnamamide (bis-cinnamamide) compounds. One of the derivatives, (Z)-2-[(E)-cinnamamido]-3-phenyl-N-propylacrylamide 1512 showed a moderate antiproliferative potency (HCT-116 cell line inhibition of 32.0 µM), good selectivity profile (no inhibition of normal cell lines), and proven cellular activities leading to apoptosis. SAR studies led to more than 10-fold increase in activity. Our most promising compound, [(Z)-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-N-propyl-2-[(E)-3-(thien-2-yl)propenamido)propenamide] 4112 killed colon cancer cells at IC50 = 0.89 µM (Caco-2), 2.85 µM (HCT-116) and 1.65 µM (HT-29), while exhibiting much weaker potency on C-166 and BHK normal cell lines (IC50 = 71 µM and 77.6 µM, respectively). Cellular studies towards identifying the compounds mechanism of cytotoxic activities revealed that apoptotic induction occurs in part as a result of oxidative stress. Importantly, the compounds showed inhibition of cancer stem cells that are critical for maintaining the potential for self-renewal and stemness. The results presented here show discovery of covalently-acting Michael addition compounds that potently kill cancer cells by a defined mechanism, with minimal effect on normal noncancerous cell.

Climate change is affecting the planet, compromising survival and altering forest ecosystems. Investigating climatic variations in all regions is important. The aim of this research was to assess such variations in the W and Pendjari Biosphere Reserves in Benin from 1985 to 2015 and predict climate up to 2045. Drought frequency was assessed by using the Standardized Precipitation and Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and correlation was performed between climatic variables. Then a predictive analysis was computed. From 1985 to 2015, there was change in the climate with few severe dry and wet years while no extreme climatic condition was noticed. Most of the years showed nearly normal climatic conditions. The predicted climate indicates an absence of extreme conditions up to 2045 but an increase in the annual humidity is expected. A low decrease in annual mean temperature with high confidence is expected. Decision-makers can better organize adaptation programs and sensitize people in the reserves on their role in environmental conservation and mitigation of climate change using these outputs.

The prolonged exposure to nicotine and the development of nicotine dependence have significant implications for cancer risk. Tobacco use, driven by nicotine addiction, is a major contributing factor to the development of various types of cancer. Smoking tobacco, in particular, has been strongly associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, as well as other malignancies. The harmful chemicals present in tobacco products, including carcinogens, can cause DNA damage and promote the initiation and progression of cancerous cells. This article presents a comprehensive literature review on the neurobiology of nicotine dependence and its implications for tobacco use treatment. Nicotine dependence is a complex phenomenon involving various neurobiological mechanisms. When nicotine enters the body, it binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain's reward circuitry, triggering the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Over time, repeated nicotine exposure leads to neuroadaptive changes in the brain, resulting in increased motivation to seek and use the drug. Understanding the neurobiology of nicotine dependence is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies. Pharmacological interventions, such as nicotine replacement therapy and medications like bupropion and varenicline, can help individuals manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, behavioral therapies and counseling play a vital role in enhancing self-efficacy and providing support for smoking cessation efforts. By reviewing the existing literature, this article sheds light on the intricate neural pathways and processes involved in nicotine addiction. It emphasizes the importance of a multidimensional approach that combines pharmacological treatments and behavioral interventions to address the physiological and psychological aspects of nicotine dependence. This knowledge can inform the development of more targeted and personalized treatment approaches to help individuals overcome tobacco addiction and improve their chances of successful smoking cessation.

Mycotoxins are produced by more than one hundred fungi and produce secondary metabolites that contaminate various agricultural commodities, especially rice and corn. Their presence in the food chain is considered a serious problem worldwide. In recent years, a link between exposure to mycotoxins and impaired fertility has been suggested. Consequently, it has become vital to investigate the interactive effects of these mycotoxins on ovarian function. In this study, we investigated the intergenerational effects of mycotoxin fumonisin B1 (FB1) on ovarian structure and function. Virgin Wistar albino female rats were separated into control and FB1 treatment groups and examined from day 6 of pregnancy until delivery (20 and 50 mg/kg/day). The obtained females of the first (F1) and second generations (F2) were euthanized at 4 weeks of age, and ovary samples were collected. We found that the ovary weight index increased with the high dose of treatment (50 mg/kg/day) among both F1 and F2, similar to that observed in polycystic ovary syndrome. As expected, FB1 at a high dose (50 mg/kg) reduced the number of primordial follicles in F1 and F2, leading to an accelerated age-related decline in reproductive capacity. Moreover, it reduced the fertility rate among F1 females by affecting follicle growth and development, as the number of secondary and tertiary follicles was decreased. Histopathological changes were evidenced by the altered structures of most of the growing follicle oocytes, as revealed by a thinning irregular zona pellucida and pyknosis in granulosa cells. These findings are concomitant with steroidogenesis- and folliculogenesis-related gene expression, as evidenced by the decrease in CYP19 activity and estrogen receptor beta (ESR2) gene expression. Additionally, GDF-9 mRNA levels significantly decreased, and IGF-1 mRNA levels significantly increased. However, the results from the ovaries of the F2 treatment groups were different and unexpected. While there was no significant variation in CYP19 compared to the control, ESR2 significantly increased, leading to stereological and histopathological changes similar to those of the control, except for some altered follicles. The hallmark histological feature was the appearance of vacuolar structures within the oocyte and between granulosa cell layers. Interestingly, the autophagic marker LC3 significantly increased in F2 offspring, whereas this protein significantly decreased in F1 offspring. Therefore, we suggest that the promotion of autophagy among the ovaries of F2 offspring may be considered a recovery mechanism from the effect of prenatal FB1 exposure. Thus, autophagy corrected the effect of FB1 during the early life of F1 females, leading to F2 offspring with ovarian structure and function similar to those of the control. However, the offspring treated females may have early ovarian aging because their ovarian pool was affected.

Abstract: Given the increasing resistance of some bacterial strains to many common antibiotics used in the local market, the current study aimed to produce nanoscale particles capable of combating pathogenic bacteria that have developed resistance to current antibiotics. In this research, an ex-perimental study was conducted to produce nanoscale particles using the single-celled blue-green algae Synechococcus sp., which was isolated from a local environment in the Arab Republic of Egypt, specifically from a soil sample in Beni-Suef City. The aim of the study was to generate silver NPs employing different biological approaches, encompassing the direct strain powder technique, ethanol extract pellet technique, and ethanol extract technique. These synthesized nanoparticles displayed different shapes, including cubic, spherical, pellet-like, and rod-shaped particles. They were characterized by bio-functional groups containing Ag+ ions, which were detected using FT-IR, Zeta sizer, and Zeta potential measurements. High-resolution SEM imaging unveiled the mor-phological features of Silver NPs with biologically formed protective layers, spanning sizes from 20 to 430 nm for individual particles. The study evaluated the antibacterial efficiency against both G+ve and G-ve bacteria. The ethanolic extract technique exhibited the largest inhibition zone (24 mm) against G+ve bacteria, particularly Staphy. aureus. Furthermore, it was observed that the larger particles produced using the powder and pellet techniques were less effective antibacterial agents. In conclusion, this investigation emphasizes the potential of cyanobacteria-based synthesis of silver nanoparticles as a promising approach for producing innovative antimicrobial agents.

Micro-technology has played a substantial role in bioscience, biomedical and biotechnological research due to its core advantages in modern science and engineering. It has created unique development in various sectors of bio-research and upsurges the efficacy of research at the molecular level in recent years. Microfluidic technology makes it possible to manipulate sample volumes at the micro- and nano-level (called nanofluidics) with terrific control outside in vivo cellular microenvironment, enabling the reduction of discrepancies between in vivo and in vitro environments as well as reducing reaction time and cost. In this review, we discuss various effective integrations of microfluidic technologies into biotechnology and its paradigmatic significance in bio-research, supporting mechanical and chemical in vitro cellular micro-environment. Specific innovations relating to the application of microfluidics to advance microbial life, solitary and co-cultures along with a multiple-type cell culturing, cellular communications, cellular interactions and population dynamics are discussed.

The purpose of this paper is to explore the effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on brand image in the apparel industry in Jordan, using the moderating variable of customer consciousness. The current research uses a quantitative, descriptive, cause-effect, and cross-sectional approach, and also it uses a convenience sampling method. Data was collected from 440 respondents. Results indicate that Jordanian Apparel organizations have medium to highly implementing of all items and constructs of CSR, brand image items, and consciousness items. Moreover, there is a strong relationship between CSR dimensions, a medium relationship be-tween each CSR dimension and brand image, a medium relationship between each CSR dimension and consciousness, a medium relationship between total CSR and brand image, a medium relationship between total CSR and consciousness, and the medium relationship between brand image and consciousness. Results of the first model show that total CSR affects the brand image. Where social responsibility has the highest positive effect, followed by ethical responsibility, then economic responsibility, however, environmental responsibility negatively affects the brand image. The second model shows consciousness moderates the effect of CSR on the brand image. The study recommends longitudinal research on the Jordanian Apparel industry, especially to test the effect of environmental responsibility on the brand image. Moreover, the re-search uses customers’ consciousness as a moderating variable, which improves the effect of CSR on brand image. The Apparel industry organizations in Jordan should revise their daily practices particularly environmental responsibility and/or increase their customers’ awareness of their practices. Finally, the current research contributes to existing studies by using consciousness as a moderating variable.

Since its inception in 2019, COVID-19 has been associated with significant changes in lifestyle-related behavior, including physical activity, diet, and sleep, which are vital to maintaining our well-being. This study measures lifestyle-related behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown using a 21-item questionnaire. The responses were collected from March 2021 to September 2021. Four hundred sixty-seven participants were engaged in assessing the changes caused by the pandemic and their effect on BMI. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were tested for 71 participants. Cronbach's alpha values for the questionnaire all exceeded 0.7, demonstrating good validity and internal consistency for it. The effect of each question regarding physical activity and dietary habits over the BMI difference was studied using ANOVA. The study shows that more than half of the participants reported snacking more between meals and increased their sitting and screen time, while 74% felt more stressed and anxious. These indications were the cause of the increase in the BMI rate for individuals in the lockdown. In contrast, 62% of the participants showed more awareness about their health by increasing the intake of immunity-boosting foods, and 56% of the participants showed an increase in the consumption of nutrition supplements. Females and married individuals tended to be healthier, so their BMI showed stability compared to others based on their gender and marital status.

Endophytic fungi isolated from plants of different ecosystems have an impressive ability to produce diverse chemical classes of bioactive secondary metabolites. In this study, the cytotoxic activity and chemical composition of the ethyl acetate extract of the white beans culture of the endophytic fungus (FWBC), Talaromyces wortmannii isolated from the widespread reed grass, Arundo donax L. were investigated. A new ceramide named talaramide (1), along with other four known compounds; stigmasterol (2), thymine (3), uracil (4), and stigmasterol-3-O-β-D-glucoside (5) were identified. The structure of compound 1 was elucidated based on extensive 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic techniques in combination with HR-ESI-MS. The produced FWBC extract exhibited cytotoxic activity against three cancer cell lines viz., MCF7, HepG2, and A549 (IC50; 54.57 ±0.27, 57.12 ± 0.59 and 84.33 ± 1.07 µg/mL, respectively) compared to methotrexate (IC50; 80.25 ± 1.11, 83.83 ± 0.74 and 153.20 ± 2.03 µg/mL, respectively) as a positive control. It showed selectivity indices with values ranging from 1.37 to 2.11 using the normal cell line, WI38 (IC50; 115.43 ± 1.92 µg/mL). The observed cytotoxicity, combined with acceptable selectivity indices, suggests the potential of this endophyte as a source of anticancer agents. Based on previous reports, it was also suggested that the identified ceramide could be responsible for the observed cytotoxic activity of the investigated extract.

In this paper, a polyacrylic elastomer latex with butyl acrylate (BA) as the core and methyl methacrylate (MMA) copolymerized with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) as the shell, named poly(BA-MMA-GMA) (PBMG), was synthesized by seeded emulsion polymerization. Cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) was dispersed in the polyacrylic latex to prepare PBMG/CNC dispersions with different CNC contents. The dried product was mixed with polylactic acid (PLA) to fabricate PLA/PBMG/CNC blends. The addition of PBMG and PBMG/CNC improved the mechanical properties of the PLA matrix. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to investigate the non-isothermal crystallization kinetics. The Avrami equation modified by Jeziorny, and the Ozawa, and Mo’s equations were used to analyze the nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of PLA and its blends. Analysis of crystallization halftime of nonisothermal conditions indicated that the overall rate of crystallization increased significantly at 1 wt% content of CNC. This seemed to result from the increase of nucleation density and the acceleration of segment movement in the presence of CNC component. This phenomenon was verified by polarizing microscope observation.

The vehicular technology has integrated many features in the system, which enhances the safety and comfort of the user. Among these features, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) is the only feature that maintains the set cabin air temperature (CAT). The user’s command drives the set CAT, and the thermostat provides feedback to the HVAC to maintain the set CAT. The CAT is increased by extracting the heat from the engine surface produced by the fuel combustion, whereas the CAT is reduced by the known processes of the air conditioning system (ACS). Therefore, the CAT driven by the user’s command may not be optimal, and estimating the optimal CAT is still unsolved. In this work, the user was allowed to input a range for CAT instead of a single value. Optimal HVAC criteria were defined, and the CAT was estimated by performing iterative analysis in the user-selected range satisfying the criteria. The HVAC criteria were defined based on two measurable parameters: air conditioning refrigerant fluid pressure (ACRFP) and engine surface temperature (EST) empirically defined as the vector CATOP. In this article, a NARX DL model by mapping the vehicle-level vectors (VLV) to predict the CATOP in real-time using field data obtained from a 2020 Cadillac CT5 test vehicle. Utilising the DL model, CATOP for future time steps were predicted by varying the CAT in the definite range and applying HVAC criteria. Thus, an optimal set CAT was estimated, corresponding to the optimal CATOP defined by the HVAC criteria. We performed the validation of the DL model for multiple datasets using traditional statistical techniques, namely, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) values, first-order derivatives (FOD), and root-mean-square error (RMSE).

The ACC feature when activated augments the engine performance in real-time. This article presents a novel methodology to predict the optimal adaptive cruise control set speed profile (ACCSSP) by considering all the effecting parameters. This paper investigates engine operating conditions (EOC) criteria to develop a predictive model of ACCSSP in real-time. We developed a deep learning (DL) model using the NARX method to predict engine operating point (EOP) mapping the vehicle-level vectors (VLV). We used real-world field data obtained from Cadillac test vehicles driven by activating the ACC feature for developing the DL model. We used a realistic set of assumptions to estimate the VLV for the future time steps for the range of allowable speed values and applied them at the input of the developed DL model to generate multiple sets of EOP’s. We imposed the defined EOC criteria on these EOPs, and the top three modes of speeds satisfying all the requirements are derived for each second. Thus three eligible speed values are estimated for each second, and an additional criterion is defined to generate a unique ACCSSP for future time steps. Performance comparison between predicted and constant ACCSSPs indicates that the predictive model outperforms constant ACCSSP.

Background: Acute heart failure (AHF) is a serious medical problem that necessitates hospitalisation and often results in death. Patients hospitalised to the emergency department (ED) should therefore receive an immediate diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, there is not yet a fast and accurate laboratory test for identifying AHF. The purpose of this research is to apply the principles of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) to the analysis of hematological predictors for AHF. Methods: In this retrospective analysis, 425 patients with AHF and 430 healthy individuals served as assessments. Patients' demographic and hematological information was analyzed to determine AHF. Important risk variables for AHF diagnosis were identified using LASSO feature selection. To test the efficacy of the suggested prediction model (XGBoost), a 10-fold cross-validation procedure was implemented. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), F1 score, Brier score, and Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) were all computed to evaluate the model's efficacy. Permutation-based analysis and SHAP, were used to assess the importance and influence of the model's incorporated risk factors. Results: White blood cell (WBC), monocytes, neutrophils, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), red cell distribution width-standard deviation (RDW-SD), RDW-coefficient of variation (RDW-CV), and platelet distribution width (PDW) values were significantly higher than the healthy group (p&lt;0.05). On the other hand, erythrocyte, hemoglobin, basophil, lymphocyte, mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet, hematocrit, mean erythrocyte hemoglobin (MCH) and procalcitonin (PCT) values were found to be significantly lower in AHF patients compared to healthy controls (p &lt;0.05). When XGBoost was used in conjunction with LASSO to estimate AHF, the resulting model had an AUC of 87.9%, an F1 score of 87.4%, a Brier score of 0.036, and an F1 score of 87.4%. PDW, age, RDW-SD, and PLT were identified as the most crucial risk factors in differentiating AHF. Conclusions: The XGBoost model demonstrated exceptional performance in accurately estimating Acute Heart Failure, and the application of Explainable Artificial Intelligence effectively provided intuitive explanations for the model's estimations. The suggested interpretable model holds potential for the identification of patients at high risk, thereby facilitating the optimization of treatment and planning for follow-up in cases of AHF.

Purpose: A novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 was identified as the cause of COVID-19 eventually led to the declaration of Public health emergency of international concern and a pandemic by WHO due to its exponential global spread. Present study was conducted to investigate the impact of second wave of pandemic on mental wellbeing and social behaviors among university students of Pakistan during this crucial period of COVID-19 infection. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was designed to evaluate the psychosocial impact during the current COVID-19 outbreak among the students of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Snowball sampling or chain referral sampling procedure was adopted to recruit the participants in the study. Verbal informed consent was taken from all participants before recruitment in the study irrespective of their gender, age and socioeconomic status. Results: Mental health of university students during COVID-19 epidemic was affected to a varying degree revealing that 26.66% were recorded to have mild, 27.15% moderate and 17.04% suffering from severe anxiety out of total 1029 students. Students who were residing in urban areas with parents and having a steady family income were negatively associated and found protective factors against anxiety. However, having a relative or an acquaintance infected with COVID-19 was an independent risk factor for experienced anxiety. Positively associated factors with the level of anxiety symptoms included economic stressors, effects on daily-life, and academic delays whereas social support was negatively correlated with anxiety in COVID-19 related stressors. Conclusion: Public health emergencies and such pandemic are exerting serious psychological impacts on university students. It is recommended that the higher authorities should plan better policies to reduce this impact for the provision of high quality and timely crisis-oriented psychological services to university students.