Side-specific factors for intraoperative hemodynamic instability in laparoscopic adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma: a comparative study.

BACKGROUND: Adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma (PHEO) is challenging because of the high risk of intraoperative hemodynamic instability (HDI). This study aimed to compare the incidence and risk factors of intraoperative HDI between laparoscopic left adrenalectomy (LLA) and laparoscopic right adrenalectomy (LRA). METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed two hundred and seventy-one patients aged > 18 years with unilateral benign PHEO of any size who underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy at our hospitals between September 2016 and September 2023. Patients were divided into LRA (N = 122) and LLA (N = 149) groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to predict intraoperative HDI. In multivariate analysis for the prediction of HDI, right-sided PHEO, PHEO size, preoperative comorbidities, and preoperative systolic blood pressure were included. RESULTS: Intraoperative HDI was significantly higher in the LRA group than in the LLA (27% vs. 9.4%, p < 0.001). In the multivariate regression analysis, right-sided tumours showed a higher risk of intraoperative HDI (odds ratio [OR] 5.625, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.147-27.577, p = 0.033). The tumor size (OR 11.019, 95% CI 3.996-30.38, p < 0.001), presence of preoperative comorbidities [diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and coronary heart disease] (OR 7.918, 95% CI 1.323-47.412, p = 0.023), and preoperative systolic blood pressure (OR 1.265, 95% CI 1.07-1.495, p = 0.006) were associated with a higher risk of HDI in both LRA and LLA, with no superiority of one side over the other. CONCLUSION: LRA was associated with a significantly higher intraoperative HDI than LLA. Right-sided PHEO was a risk factor for intraoperative HDI.

Growth performance, nutrients digestibility, intestinal microbiota and histology altered in broilers fed maize- or sorghum-based diets.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of varying levels of sorghum-based diets as an alternative to maize in broiler nutrition. A total of 320 one-day-old male Ross 708 broiler chickens were randomly allocated to four treatment groups (5 pens per treatment and 16 birds per pen), comprising a control group with a basal diet and groups receiving sorghum-based diets with 20%, 40%, and 100% maize replacement. The overall weight gain was significantly (p < 0.0001) higher in the control group, followed by 20%, 40%, and 100% sorghum replacement. Additionally, overall feed intake was significantly (p < 0.01) higher in the 20% sorghum replacement group compared to the control and other groups. Broilers fed sorghum-based diets exhibited a significantly (p < 0.01) increased feed conversion ratio. Carcass characteristics showed no significant differences between broilers fed corn and sorghum; however, the digestibility of crude protein and apparent metabolizable energy significantly (p < 0.01) increased in the 20% sorghum-corn replacement compared to the 40% and 100% replacement levels. Ileal villus height and width did not differ among the corn-sorghum-based diets, regardless of the replacement percentage. Furthermore, among the cecal microbiota, Lactobacillus count was significantly (p < 0.041) higher in the 20% corn-sorghum diet compared to the 40% and 100% replacement levels. These findings suggest that replacing corn up to 20% of corn with sorghum in broiler diet positively impact growth performance, gut health, nutrient digestibility, and cecal microbiota in broilers. However, larger replacements (40% and 100%) may have negative implications for broiler production and health.

Enhancing COVID-19 Risk Mitigation in Bisha City Primary Schools: Investigating Teacher and Administrative Staff Awareness Through a Comprehensive Survey.

Background and aims This research investigates COVID-19 awareness among primary school teachers and staff in Bisha City. It aims to enhance safety protocols by examining knowledge, awareness levels, and demographic associations. Despite school reopening, concerns linger. The study promotes informed decision-making, fostering a safer school environment and contributing to the well-being of the educational community. Methods In an institutional-based cross-sectional study among primary school teachers and administrative staff in Bisha City, our research aimed to comprehensively evaluate awareness regarding specific measures for minimizing COVID-19 risks. With a sample size of 348 participants, we employed a robust methodology, including online questionnaires addressing sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge about COVID-19 risks. The data collection period spanned from March 2022 to December 2023, providing a temporal context for responses. A pilot test ensured questionnaire clarity, and efforts were made to enhance reliability and validity, incorporating validated scales and iterative adjustments based on feedback. Non-response or incomplete responses were handled transparently, with sensitivity analyses to assess potential impact. The awareness level was measured using 17 Likert scale questions, and predefined categories (poor, moderate, and good) facilitated result interpretation. Researcher influence was minimized through training and inter-rater reliability checks. Confidentiality and anonymity were rigorously maintained, adhering to ethical considerations. Statistical analyses employed frequency tables, percentages, mean, standard deviations, and the chi-square test. Dissemination included academic publications, reports to the educational directorate, and presentations at conferences. This holistic approach contributes to the robustness and societal impact of our study, offering insights into COVID-19 awareness among educators in Bisha City. Results In this study assessing awareness among teachers and administrative staff in Bisha City regarding COVID-19 risk minimization, data from 348 respondents revealed key bio-demographic characteristics. The majority demonstrated good knowledge of environmental (83%) and personal hygiene risks (84%). The chi-square test indicated no significant associations between bio-demographic factors and awareness levels. Specifically, for age groups, χ²(4, N = 348) = 5.46, p = 0.707; for gender, χ²(1, N = 348) = 1.95, p = 0.744; for educational levels, χ²(4, N = 348) = 2.13, p = 0.995; for residency, χ²(1, N = 348) = 1.11, p = 0.892; and for job types, χ²(3, N = 348) = 8.30, p = 0.404. The absence of significant associations underscores the potential universality of successful awareness campaigns, suggesting that future efforts can maintain an inclusive approach without tailoring messages. These results emphasize the importance of sustained awareness efforts across the diverse demographic spectrum of the educational community. Conclusion This study reveals robust COVID-19 awareness among primary school teachers and staff in Bisha City, with no significant demographic associations. Successful, inclusive awareness campaigns can further enhance safety measures and promote well-being in the educational community.

Development of Two Green and High Throughput Microwell Spectrometric Platforms for Determination of Reboxetine, the First FDA-Approved Selective Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor Antidepressant Drug.

BACKGROUND: Reboxetine (RBX) is the first FDA-approved antidepressant drug of the selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors class. There is a serious need for a convenient analytical tool for the quantitation of RBX in its dosage form. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to the development and validation of two green and high throughput microwell spectrometric platforms for the pharmaceutical analysis of RBX. METHODS: The two platforms, abbreviated as MW-AB and MW-FL, involved microwell-based analysis assisted with a multifunction microplate plate reader for measuring absorbance and fluorescence signals, respectively. The MW-AB and MW-FL platforms involved the formation of colored and fluorescent derivatives upon the reaction of RBX with oxidized pyrocatechol reagent (OPC) and tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), respectively. The absorbance of colored RBX-OPC derivative at 520 nm, and the fluorescence of RBX-TCNQ charge transfer complex at 283 nm and 484 nm for excitation and emission, respectively. The optimum conditions of both reactions were established, their molar ratios were determined, and reaction mechanisms were postulated. RESULTS: Both platforms were optimized and validated according to the guidelines of the International Council on Harmonization. The limits of quantitation were 19.6 µg/mL and 27 ng/mL for MW-AB and MW-FL, respectively. Both platforms were applied with excellent reliability to the quantitation of RBX content in Edranox® tablets and their drug uniformity. The greenness levels of both platforms were assessed by two comprehensive tools, and the results confirmed the high level of greenness for both platforms. CONCLUSIONS: Both platforms involved one-step reactions, adapted microwell analysis, and simultaneous handling of large number of samples. Therefore, they have the advantages of greenness and high throughput analysis. HIGHLIGHTS: The proposed two platforms are valuable tools for the rapid quantitation of RBX.

A One-Step Green Microwell Spectrophotometric Assay for the Determination of Certain New Chemotherapeutic Drug Formulations.

BACKGROUND: The formation of charge transfer complexes (CTCs) of iodine with five chemotherapeutic drugs used for the treatment of different types of cancer has not been investigated. These drugs were olaparib, seliciclib, vandetanib, dasatinib, and tozasertib. Additionally, these drugs need an appropriate general spectrophotometric assay for their analysis in the dosage forms regardless of the differences in their chemical structures. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was the development of a novel microwell spectrophotometric assay (MW-SPA) for one-step determination of these drugs via their intereactions with iodine resulted in instantaneous producing a bright lemon yellow-colored CTCs. METHODS: The spectrophotometric study of the CTCs were conducted, and all CTCs were characterized. Site(s) of interaction on each drug were assigned, and the MW-SPA was developed and applied to the analysis of dosage forms. RESULTS: The findings confirmed that the reactions proceeded via CTCs formation. Beer's law was obeyed over a general concentration range of 1-6 µg/mL. The limits of detection and quantitation were in the ranges of 0.5-2.1 and 1.5-6.4 µg/mL, respectively. The proposed MW-SPA demonstrated excellent precisions as the relative standard deviations were < 2.24 and 2.23% for the intra- and inter-assay precision, respectively. Recovery studies demonstrated the accuracy of MW-SPA. Successful determination of all drugs in bulk and tablet forms was achieved using the MW-SPA. The environmental sustainability of the proposed methodology was determined, providing evidence of the assay's alignment with the basis of green analytical chemistry. The high throughput of the assay was documented. CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to other existing methods, the MW-SPA described herein valid for analyzing all drugs at the same wavelength. HIGHLIGHTS: The assay is useful for routine analysis of drugs in their formulations in quality control laboratories.

Formulation of biodegradable alginate-based nano-carriers for in-vitro drug delivery and antibacterial activity.

Evaluation of the controlled release of ciprofloxacin (CIP.HCl) and the antibacterial efficacy of alginate (ALG)-based nanocarriers constitute the primary objectives of the current work. Herein, ALG-based nano-structures were prepared by the co-precipitation method and thoroughly analyzed using different characterization techniques, i.e., fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and zeta potential (ZP). The intense peaks emerged at 500, 545, and 750 cm-1 due to the CeO bond. Peaks that appeared at 550-600 cm-1 and 525 cm-1 are due to the stretching vibrations of FeO and ZnO bonds, respectively. Lowering of the peaks from 1640 to 1630 cm-1 and 1420 to 1384 cm-1 were observed in ALG-based nanocomposite (NC) due to the interaction of ALG with metal oxides (MO), which confirmed the formulation of CeO2/ZnFe2O4/ALG nanocomposite. The diffraction peaks at 28.6°, 56.6°, 76.5°, 37°, 47.9°, 62.3°, 74°, 13°, 21° confirmed the synthesis of MO (crystallite size 15.74 nm) and CeO2/ZnFe2O4/ALG (12 nm). In accordance with morphological studies, CeO2/ZnFe2O4 oxides had a uniform distribution throughout the relatively smooth and permeable surface of the ALG-based NC. Ciprofloxacin (CIP) was used as a model drug. Negative values of ZP revealed that CIP-loaded nanocomposite (CeO2/ZnFe2O4/ALG/CIP) had more stability than CeO2/ZnFe2O4/ALG. The maximum percentage of loading around 25 % on ALG NC was examined using the optical density (OD) method at pH 5.5. Correlation coefficients from the first order (0.971), Korsmeyer (0.9858), and Hixson (0.9021) models show the best-fitted models of the release profile in all circumstances. The release mechanism was investigated using various kinetics models. The controlled drug released was observed around 17 % at 40 °C after 3 h at pH 7.4, which is almost identical to the body temperature of a human, which is 37 °C. Similarly, after 24 h, sustained and controlled in-vitro release of the drug was studied, and it was 37, 72, and 74 % at pH 2.2, 7.4, and 9.4, respectively. Thus, prepared ALG-based NC is suitable for the controlled in-vitro release of (CIP.HCl). Metal oxides (CeO2/ZnFe2O4) and ALG-based nanocomposite (CeO2/ZnFe2O4/ALG) showed great antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) like 15 mm and 14 mm than Escherichia coli (E. coli).

Elucidating the role of rice straw biochar in modulating Helianthus annuus L. antioxidants, secondary metabolites and soil post-harvest characteristics in different types of microplastics.

The emergence of microplastics (MPs) as pollutants in agricultural soils is increasingly alarming, presenting significant threats to soil ecosystems. Given the widespread contamination of ecosystems by various types of MPs, including polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene (PE), it is crucial to understand their effects on agricultural productivity. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of different types of MPs (PS, PVC, and PE) on various aspects of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) growth with the addition of rice straw biochar (RSB). This study aimed to examine plant growth and biomass, photosynthetic pigments and gas exchange characteristics, oxidative stress indicators, and the response of various antioxidants (enzymatic and non-enzymatic) and their specific gene expression, proline metabolism, the AsA-GSH cycle, cellular fractionation in the plants and post-harvest soil properties. The research outcomes indicated that elevated levels of different types of MPs in the soil notably reduced plant growth and biomass, photosynthetic pigments, and gas exchange attributes. Different types of MPs also induced oxidative stress, which caused an increase in various enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant compounds, gene expression and sugar content; notably, a significant increase in proline metabolism, AsA-GSH cycle, and pigmentation of cellular components was also observed. Favorably, the addition of RSB significantly increased plant growth and biomass, gas exchange characteristics, enzymatic and non-enzymatic compounds, and relevant gene expression while decreasing oxidative stress. In addition, RSB amendment decreased proline metabolism and AsA-GSH cycle in H. annuus plants, thereby enhancing cellular fractionation and improving post-harvest soil properties. These results open new avenues for sustainable agriculture practices and show great potential for resolving the urgent issues caused by microplastic contamination in agricultural soils.

Advancing Catalysts by Nanoconfinement and Catalysis for Enhanced Hydrogen Production from Magnesium Borohydride: A Review.

Hydrogen storage in solid-state materials represents a highly promising avenue for advancing hydrogen storage technologies, driven by their potential for high efficiency, reduced risk, and cost-effectiveness. Among these materials, magnesium borohydride (Mg(BH4)2), hereafter denoted as MBH, stands out for its exceptional characteristics, boasting a gravimetric capacity of 14.9 wt% and a volumetric hydrogen density capacity of 146 kg/m3. However, the practical application of MBH is impeded by challenges such as high desorption temperatures (≥ 270°C), sluggish kinetics, poor reversibility, and the formation of unexpected byproducts like diborane. To meet  these, extensive research efforts have been directed towards enhancing the hydrogen storage properties of MBH. This review provides a comprehensive survey of recent advancements in MBH research, with a particular focus on experimental findings related to nanoconfined MBH and modified thermodynamic processes aimed at enabling hydrogen release at lower temperatures by mitigating sluggish kinetics. Specifically, nanostructuring techniques, catalyst-mediated nanoconfinement methodologies, and alloy/compositional modifications will be elucidated, highlighting their potential to enhance hydrogen storage properties and overcome existing limitations. Furthermore, this review discusses the challenges encountered in the utilization of MBH for hydrogen storage applications and offers insights into the future prospects of this material.

Antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of diclofenac against levofloxacin-resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia isolates; emphasizing repurposing of diclofenac.

Background and Objectives: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic pathogen causing nosocomial infections. Diclofenac is an anti-inflammatory drug that is considered a non-antibiotic drug. This study assessed the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of diclofenac and levofloxacin/diclofenac combination against levofloxacin resistant isolates. Materials and Methods: Minimum inhibitory concentration was determined using broth microdilution method for levofloxacin, diclofenac, and levofloxacin/diclofenac combination. Biofilm forming capacity and biofilm inhibition assay were determined. Relative gene expression was measured for efflux pump genes; smeB, and smeF genes and biofilm related genes rmlA, spgM, and rpfF without and with diclofenac and the combination. Results: Diclofenac demonstrated MIC of 1 mg/ml. The combination-with ½ MIC diclofenac-showed synergism where levofloxacin MIC undergone 16-32 fold decrease. All the isolates that overexpressed smeB and smeF showed a significant decrease in gene expression in presence of diclofenac or the combination. The mean percentage inhibition of biofilm formation with diclofenac and the combination was 40.59% and 46.49%, respectively. This agreed with biofilm related genes expression investigations. Conclusion: Diclofenac showed an antibacterial effect against Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The combination showed in-vitro synergism, significant reduction in biofilm formation and in the relative level of gene expression. Furthermore, it can potentiate the levofloxacin activity or revert its resistance.

Prevalence and risk factors of gastro-esophageal reflux disease among college students at a public university in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorders worldwide. It manifests when the lower esophageal sphincter malfunctions, causing the stomach's contents to reflux into the esophagus, lead to discomforting symptoms. Heartburn and regurgitation are the typical symptoms of GERD. This study aims to determine the prevalence of GERD and assess its risk factors. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at IMSIU, Saudi Arabia. An online survey was distributed to the students' email addresses to determine the prevalence of GERD, its related risk factors, and understanding of its symptoms. Results: One thousand five hundred and thirty-three (1533) students participated in the survey. The prevalence of GERD was 34.6%. The majority (79.7%) of the respondent students had heard of GERD. Stress is believed to be a factor in developing GERD by 35.7% of students. Heartburn was the predominant symptom of GERD (76.2%). No association existed between the socio-demographic traits of those with GERD except for age and academic year. Conclusions: It is imperative to raise public awareness of the disorder's characteristics and its modifiable risk factors to prevent the emergence of GERD and its complications.

Comparison of a two-wavelength pyrometer system and spectral pyrometry for high-temperature measurements.

A pyrometer system is an optically passive, non-intrusive method that uses thermal radiation law to determine temperature. It combines electronic and optical instruments to detect low-level signals of radiation measurements. Surface high-temperature measurements are successfully obtained using a two-wavelength pyrometer system. This study used a pyrometer system to achieve high stability, minimize errors due to changing emissivity, and remove background noise from the radiation measurement for surface high-temperature measurements. Temperature measurements were also obtained from Planck's model, and the results were compared with logarithmic assumption. The precision of these measurements is improved through variable optimization of the instruments, validation of the data, and calibration of the pyrometer system. The 16 temperature measurements were obtained (800-1600°C temperature measurement range) with a correlation coefficient above 97%. The response time between temperature readings is within 785 µs. Furthermore, the high-temperature measurements were obtained with higher stability (±2.99∘ C at 1600°C) and less error (less than 2.29% for Si sensor). In addition, the error of the temperature measurement was reduced from 5.33% to 0.86% at 850°C by using Planck's model compared with using logarithmic assumption. A cooling system temperature is also optimized to reduce the error temperature reading. It was found to be at 10°C that the uncertainty was reduced from 2.29% at ambient temperature to 1.53% at 1600°C. The spectral pyrometry system was also used in comparison with the two-wavelength pyrometer system to confirm that the calibration curves of the spectral pyrometry can be used to determine temperature measurements.

Polycaprolactone - Vitamin E TPGS micelles for delivery of paclitaxel: In vitro and in vivo evaluation.

This study aimed to present findings on a paclitaxel (PTX)-loaded polymeric micellar formulation based on polycaprolactone-vitamin E TPGS (PCL-TPGS) and evaluate its in vitro anticancer activity as well as its in vivo pharmacokinetic profile in healthy mice in comparison to a marketed formulation. Micelles were prepared by a co-solvent evaporation method. The micelle's average diameter and polydispersity were determined using dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique. Drug encapsulation efficiency was assessed using an HPLC assay. The in vitro cytotoxicity was performed on human breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) using MTT assay. The in vivo pharmacokinetic profile was characterized following a single intravenous dose of 4 mg/kg to healthy mice. The mean diameters of the prepared micelles were ≤ 100 nm. Moreover, these micelles increased the aqueous solubility of PTX from ∼0.3 µg/mL to reach nearly 1 mg/mL. While the PTX-loaded micelles showed an in vitro cytotoxicity comparable to the marketed formulation (Ebetaxel), drug-free PCL-TPGS micelles did not show any cytotoxic effects on both types of breast cancer cells (∼100% viability). Pharmacokinetics of PTX as part of PCL-TPGS showed a significant increase in its volume of distribution compared to PTX conventional formulation, Ebetaxel, which is in line with what was reported for clinical nano formulations of PTX, i.e., Abraxane, Genexol-PM, or Apealea. The findings of our studies indicate a significant potential for PCL-TPGS micelles to act as an effective system for solubilization and delivery of PTX.

Influence of planting dates and fertilizer modules on yield of chrysanthemum and soil health.

BACKGROUND: Optimum planting date and appropriate fertilizer module are essential facets of chrysanthemum cultivation, to enhance quality yield, and improve soil health. A field-based study was undertaken over multiple growing seasons in 2022 and 2023, where six different planting dates, viz., P1:June 15, P2:June 30, P3:July 15, P4:July 30, P5:August 15 and P6:August 30 and two fertilizer modules, FM1:Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant-1 and FM2:NPK @ 30 g m-2 were systematically examined using a Randomized Block Design (factorial), replicated thrice. RESULTS: P6 planting resulted in early bud formation (44.03 days) and harvesting stage (90.78 days). Maximum plant height (79.44 cm), plant spread (34.04 cm), cut stem length (68.40 cm), flower diameter (7.83 cm), stem strength (19.38˚), vase life (14.90 days), flowering duration (24.08 days), available soil N (314 kg ha-1), available P (37 kg ha-1), available K (347 kg ha-1), bacterial count (124.87 × 107 cfu g-1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.72 × 102 cfu g-1 soil), fungal count (30.95 × 102 cfu g-1 soil), microbial biomass (48.79 µg g-1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.64 mg TPF h-1 g-1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (23.79 mol PNP h-1 g-1 soil) was recorded in P1 planting. Among the fertilization module, minimum days to bud formation (74.94 days) and days to reach the harvesting stage (120.95 days) were recorded with the application of NPK @30 g m-2. However, maximum plant height (60.62 cm), plant spread (23.10 cm), number of cut stems m-2 (43.88), cut stem length (51.34 cm), flower diameter (6.92 cm), stem strength (21.24˚), flowering duration (21.75 days), available soil N (317 kg ha-1), available P (37 kg ha-1) and available K (349 kg ha-1) were also recorded with the application of NPK @300 kg ha-1. Maximum vase life (13.87 days), OC (1.13%), bacterial count (131.65 × 107 cfu g-1 soil), actinomycetes count (60.89 × 102 cfu g-1 soil), fungal count (31.11 × 102 cfu g-1 soil), microbial biomass (51.27 µg g-1 soil), dehydrogenase enzyme (3.77 mg TPF h-1 g-1 soil) and phosphatase enzyme (21.72 mol PNP h-1 g-1 soil) were observed with the application of Jeevamrit @ 30 ml plant-1. CONCLUSION: Early planting (P1) and inorganic fertilization (NPK @ 30 g m-2) resulted in improved yield and soil macronutrient content. The soil microbial population and enzymatic activity were improved with the jeevamrit application. This approach highlights the potential for improved yield and soil health in chrysanthemum cultivation, promoting a more eco-friendly and economically viable agricultural model.

Germination responses of Lens Culiunaris L. seeds to osmotic potentials at cardinal temperatures using hydrothermal time model.

BACKGROUND: Lentil is a significant legume that are consumed as a staple food and have a significant economic impact around the world. The purpose of the present research on lentil was to assess the hydrothermal time model's capacity to explain the dynamics of Lens culinaris L. var. Markaz-09 seed germination, as well as to ascertain the germination responses at various sub-optimal temperatures (T) and water potentials (Ψ). In order to study lentil seed germination (SG) behavior at variable water potentials (Ψs) and temperatures (Ts). A lab experiment employing the hydrothermal time model was created. Seeds were germinated at six distinct temperatures: 15 0С, 20 0С, 25 0С, 30 0С, 35 0С, and 40 0С, with five Ψs of 0, -0.3, -0.6, -0.9, and - 1.2 MPa in a PEG-6000 (Polyethylene glycol 6000) solution. RESULTS: The results indicated that the agronomic parameters like Germination index (GI), Germination energy (GE), Timson germination index (TGI), were maximum in 25 0C at (-0.9 MPa) and lowest at 40 0C in 0 MPa. On other hand, mean germination time (MGT) value was highest at 15 0C in -1.2 MPa and minimum at 40 0C in (-0.6 MPa) while Mean germination rate (MGR) was maximum at 40 0C in (0 MPa) and minimum at 15 0C in (-0.6 MPa). CONCLUSIONS: The HTT model eventually defined the germination response of Lens culinaris L. var. Markaz-09 (Lentil) for all Ts and Ψs, allowing it to be employed as a predictive tool in Lens culinaris L. var. Markaz-09 (Lentil) seed germination simulation models.

Exploring Different Management Modalities of Nonsyndromic Craniosynostosis.

Craniosynostosis is an atypical skull shape characterized by the premature fusion of cranial sutures. It is one of the most common congenital anomalies encountered by craniofacial surgeons, with a prevalence of one in every 2000-2500 births. It is classified into two main types: syndromic and nonsyndromic. In syndromic, the patient presents with other abnormalities involving the trunk, face, or extremities. While in nonsyndromic the only anomy is the premature fusion, which usually involves one suture; the most common subtypes are unicoronal, sagittal, bicoronal, metopic, and lambdoid. As a consequence, premature fusion before its natural time restricts the space for the brain to grow, increases intracranial pressure, causes damage to the brain tissue, and affects the development of the child. This review comprehensively provides a detailed overview of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis and aims to highlight the importance of early and accurate diagnosis, and determining the most suitable intervention, whether surgical or conservative modalities. The optimal treatment approach produces the most favorable aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Comparing Robot-Assisted and Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical intervention. Advancements in minimally invasive techniques, specifically laparoscopic (LR) and robot-assisted (RR) approaches, have reshaped the landscape of surgical options. This meta-analysis aimed to systematically assess and compare the effectiveness and safety of laparoscopic and robot-assisted inguinal hernia repair through a comprehensive review of the literature. A systematic search of databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published up to November 30, 2023. Fifteen studies, encompassing a total of 64,568 participants, met the inclusion criteria. Pooled estimates for key outcomes, including duration of operation, overall complications, and surgical site infection (SSI), were calculated using random-effects models. This meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in the duration of surgery, favoring laparoscopic repair over robot-assisted techniques (mean difference: 26.85 minutes, 95% CI (1.16, 52.54)). Overall complications did not significantly differ between the two approaches (odds ratio: 1.54, 95% CI (0.83, 2.85)). However, a significantly greater risk of SSI was identified for robot-assisted procedures (odds ratio: 3.32, 95% CI (2.63, 4.19)). This meta-analysis provides insights into the comparative effectiveness of laparoscopic and robot-assisted inguinal hernia repair. While laparoscopy has shorter operative times and comparable overall complication rates, the increased risk of SSI during robot-assisted procedures necessitates careful consideration in clinical decision-making. Surgeons and healthcare providers should weigh these findings according to patient characteristics, emphasizing a personalized approach to surgical decision-making. The evolving landscape of inguinal hernia repair warrants ongoing research to refine techniques and optimize outcomes for the benefit of patients undergoing these procedures.

TALE gene family: identification, evolutionary and expression analysis under various exogenous hormones and waterlogging stress in Cucumis sativus L.

BACKGROUND: Three Amino acid Loop Extension (TALE) belongs to the homeobox group of genes that are important constituents of plant systems. The TALE gene family is instrumental not only in growth and development but also plays an essential role in regulating plant response to environmental adversaries. RESULTS: In the present study, we isolated 21 CsTALE genes from the cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) genome database. Bioinformatics tools were put in place to understand the structural and functional components of the CsTALE gene family. The evolutionary analysis dissected them into seven subclades (KNOX-I, KNOX-II, and BELL-I to BELL-V). The cis-acting elements in the promoter region of CsTALE genes disclosed that they are key regulators of hormonal and stress-related processes. Additionally, the STRING database advocated the concerting role of CsTALE proteins with other key transcription factors potent in plant developmental biology. The CsmiR319 and CsmiR167a-3p targeting the CsTALE15 and CsTALE16, respectively, further assert the importance of the CsTALE gene family posttranscriptional-related processes. Tissue-specific gene expression unfolded the fundamental involvement of CsTALE genes as they were expressed throughout the developmental stages. Under waterlogging stress, the CsTALE17 expressed significantly higher values in WL, WL-NAA, and WL-ETH but not in WL-MeJA-treated samples. CONCLUSIONS: The present study reveals the evolution and functions of the CsTALE gene family in cucumber. Our work will provide a platform that will help future researchers address the issue of waterlogging stress in the Yangtze River Delta.

Artificial Intelligence-Powered Optimization and Milk Permeate Upcycling for Innovative Sesame Milk with Enhanced Probiotic Viability and Sensory Appeal.

Consumer demand for plant-based alternatives drives innovation in nondairy beverages. This study explores the development of a novel sesame milk with enhanced functionality using an artificial neural network (ANN) and milk permeate integration. An ANN model effectively optimized water-based sesame milk (WSM) extraction, maximizing total solids (T.S.) recovery. The ANN model's predicted T.S. yield (99.65%) closely matched the actual value (95.18%), demonstrating its potential for optimizing high-yield production. Furthermore, milk permeate was incorporated (5:1 ratio) to create permeate-based sesame milk (PSM), which supported the growth of lactic acid bacteria, suggesting its potential as a growth medium for future probiotic applications. PSM also displayed superior nutritional value and sensory characteristics compared to WSM. These findings highlight the promise of ANN-powered optimization and milk permeate integration for creating innovative sesame milk alternatives with enhanced probiotic viability and sensory appeal. Future research should focus on ANN optimization of alternative-based-plant milk, including permeate-based sesame milk production, the health benefits of LAB fermentation, and consumer preferences for flavors and textures. Optimizing fermentation and LAB selection remain key for commercial success.

Knowledge and Attitude Toward Otitis Externa: A Saudi Arabian Perspective.

Objectives: This study intended to assess the level of awareness and attitude toward otitis externa (OE) and specific limitations that counter the attempts to uplift the understanding and notion related to OE among the general population of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study using a questionnaire was done via Google Forms between May 2023 and July 2023. The scoring method was used to determine the participant's awareness or attitude; participants who scored >50% were considered aware or to have a good attitude. Results: Approximately 52.2% had a good attitude toward the OE, and majority were willing to visit healthcare professionals (81%) to provide care and receive proper education during office visits (80.1%). Of all the participants, 69%, 33.4%, and 30.8% suggested that a lack of awareness, cost, and health insurance, respectively, might prevent patients from seeking a healthcare professional. Only 10.9% of participants demonstrated good awareness (score >13) of outer ear inflammation. Conclusion: The findings indicate a poor level of awareness regarding OE, and a positive attitude toward seeking healthcare, with the majority recommending professional visits and relying on healthcare professionals for information.