New Composites Derived from the Natural Fiber Polymers of Discarded Date Palm Surface and Pineapple Leaf Fibers for Thermal Insulation and Sound Absorption.

New composites made of natural fiber polymers such as wasted date palm surface fiber (DPSF) and pineapple leaf fibers (PALFs) are developed in an attempt to lower the environmental impact worldwide and, at the same time, produce eco-friendly insulation materials. Composite samples of different compositions are obtained using wood adhesive as a binder. Seven samples are prepared: two for the loose natural polymers of PALF and DPSF, two for the composites bound by single materials of PALF and DPSF using wood adhesive as a binder, and three composites of both materials and the binder with different compositions. Sound absorption coefficients (SACs) are obtained for bound and hybrid composite samples for a wide range of frequencies. Flexural moment tests are determined for these composites. A thermogravimetric analysis test (TGA) and the moisture content are obtained for the natural polymers and composites. The results show that the average range of thermal conductivity coefficient is 0.042-0.06 W/(m K), 0.052-0.075 W/(m K), and 0.054-0.07 W/(m K) for the loose fiber polymers, bound composites, and hybrid composites, respectively. The bound composites of DPSF have a very good sound absorption coefficient (>0.5) for almost all frequencies greater than 300 Hz, followed by the hybrid composite ones for frequencies greater than 1000 Hz (SAC > 0.5). The loose fiber polymers of PALF are thermally stable up to 218 °C. Most bound and hybrid composites have a good flexure modulus (6.47-64.16 MPa) and flexure stress (0.43-1.67 Mpa). The loose fiber polymers and bound and hybrid composites have a low moisture content below 4%. These characteristics of the newly developed sustainable and biodegradable fiber polymers and their composites are considered promising thermal insulation and sound absorption materials in replacing synthetic and petrochemical insulation materials in buildings and other engineering applications.

Facile construction of gefitinib-loaded zeolitic imidazolate framework nanocomposites for the treatment of different lung cancer cells.

Gefitinib (GET) is a revolutionary targeted treatment inhibiting the epidermal growth factor receptor's tyrosine kinase action by competitively inhibiting the ATP binding site. In preclinical trials, several lung cancer cell lines and xenografts have demonstrated potential activity with GET. Response rates neared 25% in preclinical trials for non-small cell lung cancer. Here, we describe the one-pot synthesis of GET@ZIF-8 nanocomposites (NCs) in pure water, encapsulating zeolitic imidazolate framework 8 (ZIF-8). This method developed NCs with consistent morphology and a loading efficiency of 9%, resulting in a loading capacity of 20 wt%. Cell proliferation assay assessed the anticancer effect of GET@ZIF-8 NCs on A549 and H1299 cells. The different biochemical staining (Calcein-AM and PI and 4',6-Diamidino-2-phenylindole nuclear staining) assays assessed the cell death and morphological examination. Additionally, the mode of apoptosis was evaluated by mitochondrial membrane potential (∆ψm) and reactive oxygen species. Therefore, the study concludes that GET@ZIF-8 NCs are pledged to treat lung cancer cells.

The Efficiency of Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) Elastography in the Differentiation of Renal Cell Carcinoma and Oncocytoma.

PURPOSE: This study is to investigate the effectiveness of Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) elastography in differentiating radiologically similar renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and oncocytoma in solid masses of the kidney. METHODS: The patients with solid renal mass histopathological diagnosed after excision or tru-cat biopsy who underwent a preoperative ARFI elastography of the lesion during a 4-year period were included in this study. Preoperative shear wave velocity (SWV) values were measured in all the lesions. SWV results of RCCs and oncocytomas were compared by an independent t-test, and cut-off, sensitivity and specificity values were calculated. RESULTS: Forty-two of the 60 patients included in the study were men (70%) and, 18 were women (30%), and the mean age was 59.7 ± 14 (27-94) years. Among 46 RCCs (76.6%), 23 and 14 oncocytomas, 5 (23.4%) were located in the right kidney (p:0.34722). Mean SWV values were found to be significantly higher in RCCs (2.87± 0.74 (0.96-4.14) m/s) than oncocytomas (1.83 ± 0.78 (0.80-3.76) m/s) (p <0.001). In the ROC analysis, a cutoff value of 2.29 m/s was found to havean 80.4% sensitivity and a 78.6% specificity for the discrimination of RCCs from oncocytomas. CONCLUSION: ARFI elastography measurements may be useful in distinguishing RCC and oncocytomas that may have similar solid radiological imaging features.

Bioinformatics-driven discovery of novel EGFR kinase inhibitors as anti-cancer therapeutics: In silico screening and in vitro evaluation.

Epidermal growth factor receptor EGFR inhibitors are widely used as first line therapy for the treatment of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients harboring EGFR mutation. However, the acquisition of a second-site mutation (T790 M) limited the efficacy and developed resistance. Therefore, discovery and development of specific drug target for this mutation is of urgent needs. In our study we used the ChemDiv diversity database for receptor-based virtual screening to secure EGFR-TK inhibitors chemotherapeutics. We identified four compounds that bind to the ATP-binding region of the EGFR-TK using AutoDock 4.0 and AutoDock Vina1.1.2 and post-docking investigations. The ligand showed hydrophobic interactions to the hydrophobic region of the binding site and engaged in hydrogen bonding with Met793. The ligands also explored π-cation interactions between the π-system of the ligand-phenyl ring and the positive amino group of Lys745. Molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area MM/PBSA per-residue energy decomposition analyses revealed that Val726, Leu792, Met793, Gly796, Cys797, Leu798, and Thr844 contributed the most to the binding energy. Biological evaluation of the retrieved hit compounds showed suppressing activity against EGFR auto phosphorylation and selective apoptosis-induced effects toward lung cancer cells harboring the EGFR L858R/T790M double mutation. Our work anticipated into novel and specific EGFR-TKIs and identified new compounds with therapeutic potential against lung cancer.

Suitability of treated wastewater for irrigation and its impact on groundwater resources in arid coastal regions: Insights for water resources sustainability.

Water scarcity threatens agriculture and food security in arid regions like Saudi Arabia. The nation produces significant quantities of municipal wastewater, which, with adequate treatment, could serve as an alternative water source for irrigation, thereby reducing reliance on fossil and non-renewable groundwater. This study assessed the appropriateness of using treated wastewater (TWW) for irrigation in a dry coastal agricultural region in Eastern Saudi Arabia and its impact on groundwater resources. Field investigations were conducted in Qatif to collect water samples and field measurements. A multi-criteria approach was applied to evaluate the TWW's suitability for irrigation, including complying with Saudi Standards, the Irrigation Water Quality Index (IWQI), the National Sanitation Foundation water quality index (NSFWQI), and the individual irrigation indices. In addition, the impact of TWW on groundwater was assessed through hydrogeological and isotope approaches. The results indicate that the use of TWW in the study area complied with the Saudi reuse guidelines except for nitrate, aluminum, and molybdenum. However, irrigation water quality indices classify TWW as having limitations that necessitate the use for salt-tolerant crops on permeable and well-drained soils. Stable isotopic analysis (δ2H, δ18O) revealed that long-term irrigation with TWW affected the shallow aquifer, while deep aquifers were minimally impacted due to the presence of aquitard layer. The application of TWW irrigation has successfully maintained groundwater sustainability in the study area, as evidenced by increased groundwater levels up to 2.3 m. Although TWW contributes to crop productivity, long term agricultural sustainability could be enhanced by improving effluent quality, regulating irrigation practices, implementing buffer zones, and monitoring shallow groundwater. An integrated approach that combines advanced wastewater treatment methods, community involvement, regulatory oversight, and targeted monitoring is recommended to be implemented.

Voltametric Sensor Based on Magnetic Chitosan Acetylindole-Based Nanocomposite for the Determination of Sulfamethazine.

Sulfamethazine (SMZ), a persistent antibiotic, is frequently detected in drinking water and milk. For this reason, our research aimed to develop a novel electrochemical sensor based on a magnetic nanocomposite supported on chitosan modified by 3-acetylindole through the formation of chitosan acetylindole Schiff base (Chs-Aci). The objective was to detect extremely low concentrations of SMZ in milk. The synthesized nanocomposites were characterized by various techniques, including FT-IR, XRD, EDX, SEM, and TEM. To enhance the electrocatalytic efficiency for sensitive SMZ detection in food samples, a magnetic chitosan acetylindole nanocomposite (M-Chs-Aci) was employed as a modifier for a carbon paste electrode (CPE). The electrochemical measurements revealed that the M-Chs-Aci/CPE exhibits good electrocatalytic performance compared to a bare CPE. Moreover, low detection limit, repeatability, and stability were achieved at 0.021 µM, 3.83%, and 94.87%, respectively. Finally, the proposed M-Chs-Aci/CPE proved to be highly effective in detecting SMZ in milk samples. The obtained findings paved the way for the effective usability of M-Chs-Aci/CPE as a sensor for detecting SMZ in real samples, with acceptable recoveries of 95%-98.87%.

Off-On-Off Cascade Recognition of Cyanide, Mercury, and Aluminum Using N/5-Monosubstituted Rhodanines.

This study aims to synthesize N- and 5-monosubstituted rhodanine derivatives as ion-sensing organics and investigate their sensing abilities. Following an easy and green approach to synthesis, the anion-sensing properties of the rhodanines were studied using colorimetric detection and spectroscopic methods. As a result of studies, rhodanines are found to be highly solvent-controlled colorimetric and fluorescent cyanide, mercury, and aluminum sensors. The stoichiometry of the interaction between CN- and both probes was determined to be 1:1 using Job's plot analysis. The binding constants (Ks) of CN- to 5-arylRh and N-arylRh were calculated to be 3.25 × 104 and 7.07 × 104 M-1, respectively, demonstrating their high affinity for cyanide ions. The limits of detections for the 5-arylRh and N-arylRh were also determined as 356 and 617 nM, respectively. In addition to detecting CN-, 5-arylRh also serves as a specific turn-off sensor for mercury and aluminum when cyanide and hydroxide are present. This enables the fluorescence intensity to be toggled on/off by alternating the addition of CN-/OH- and Hg2+/Al3+. Furthermore, the LOD values for Hg2+ and Al3+ with 5-arylRh-CN- and 5-arylRh-OH- were determined to be 414 nM and 1.35 µM, respectively. Furthermore, the turn-on binding mechanisms of 5-arylRh and N-arylRh with cyanide ions were elucidated, and the experimental band gap (highest occupied molecular orbital/least unoccupied molecular orbital) energy values corroborated the proposed mechanism. Additionally, the interaction mechanism of the probes with CN- was further investigated by using the 1H NMR technique. Collectively, these findings suggest that 5-arylRh, N-arylRh, and 5-arylRh-CN- hold promise as selective and sensitive candidate sensors for CN-, Hg2+, and Al3+ ions.

Synthesis, anticancer evaluation, molecular docking and ADME study of novel pyrido[4',3':3,4]pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidines as potential tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrKA) inhibitors.

The starting compound 3-amino-1,7-dihydro-4H-pyrazolo[4,3-c]pyridine-4,6(5H)-dione (1) is reacted with each of diketone and ß-ketoester, forming pyridopyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidines 4a,b and 14a,b, respectively. The compounds 4 and 14 reacted with each of aromatic aldehyde and arenediazonium salt to give the respective arylidenes and arylhydrazo derivatives, respectively. The structure of the new products was established using spectroscopic techniques. The cytotoxic activity of selected targets was tested in vitro against three cancer cell lines MCF7, HepG2 and HCT116. The data obtained from enzymatic assays of TrKA indicated that compounds 7b and 16c have the strongest inhibitory effects on TrKA with IC50 = 0.064 ± 0.0037 µg/ml and IC50 = 0.047 ± 0.0027 µg/ml, respectively, compared to the standard drug Larotrectinib with IC50 = 0.034 ± 0.0021 µg/ml for the HepG2 cancer cell line. In cell cycle analysis, compounds 7b, 15b, 16a and 16c caused the greatest arrest in cell cycle at the G2/M phase. In addition, compound 15b has a higher apoptosis-inducing effect (36.72%) than compounds 7b (34.70%), 16a (21.14) and 16c (26.54%). Compounds 7b, 16a and 16c were shown fit tightly into the active site of the TrKA kinase crystal structure (PDB: 5H3Q). Also, ADME study was performed on some selected potent anticancer compounds described in this study.

Development and Fabrication of a Molecularly Imprinted Polymer-Based Electroanalytical Sensor for the Determination of Acyclovir.

Acyclovir (ACV), a synthetic nucleoside derivative of purine, is one of the most potent antiviral medications recommended in the specific management of varicella-zoster and herpes simplex viruses. The molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) was utilized to create an effective and specific electrochemical sensor using a straightforward photopolymerization process to determine ACV. The polymeric thin coating was developed using the template molecule ACV, a functional monomer acrylamide, a basic monomer 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, a cross-linker ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, and a photoinitiator 2-hydroxy-2-methyl propiophenone on the exterior of the glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Scanning electron microscopy, attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry were employed for the purpose of characterizing the constructed sensor (AM-ACV@MIP/GCE). Differential pulse voltammetry and a 5 mM ferrocyanide/ferricyanide ([Fe(CN)6]3-/4-) redox reagent were used to detect the ACV binding to the specific cavities on MIP. The study involves density functional theory (DFT) calculations, which were conducted to investigate template-functional monomer interactions thoroughly, calculate template-functional monomer interaction energies, and determine the optimal template/functional monomer ratio. DFT calculations were performed using Becke's three-parameter hybrid functional with the Lee-Yang-Parr correlation functional (B3LYP) method and 6-31G(d,p) basis set. The sensor exhibits linear performance throughout the concentration region 1 × 10-11 to 1 × 10-10 M, and the limit of detection and limit of quantification were 7.15 × 10-13 M and 2.38 × 10-12 M, respectively. For the electrochemical study of ACV, the sensor demonstrated high accuracy, precision, robustness, and a short detection time. Furthermore, the developed electrochemical sensor exhibited exceptional recovery in tablet dosage form and commercial human blood samples, with recoveries of 99.40 and 100.44%, respectively. The findings showed that the AM-ACV@MIP/GCE sensor would effectively be used to directly assess pharmaceuticals from actual specimens and would particularly detect ACV compared to structurally similar pharmaceutical compounds.

Association of biosecurity and hygiene practices with avian influenza A/H5 and A/H9 virus infections in turkey farms.

High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 outbreaks pose a significant threat to the health of livestock, wildlife, and humans. Avian influenza viruses (AIVs) are enzootic in poultry in many countries, including Bangladesh, necessitating improved farm biosecurity measures. However, the comprehension of biosecurity and hygiene practices, as well as the infection of AIV in turkey farms, are poorly understood in Bangladesh. Therefore, we conducted this study to determine the prevalence of AIV subtypes and their association with biosecurity and hygiene practices in turkey farms. We collected oropharyngeal and cloacal swabs from individual turkeys from 197 farms across 9 districts in Bangladesh from March to August 2019. We tested the swab samples for the AIV matrix gene (M gene) followed by H5, H7, and H9 subtypes using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). We found 24.68% (95% CI:21.54-28.04) of turkey samples were AIV positive, followed by 5.95% (95% CI: 4.33-7.97) for H5, 6.81% (95% CI: 5.06-8.93) for H9 subtype and no A/H7 was found. Using a generalized linear mixed model, we determined 10 significant risk factors associated with AIV circulation in turkey farms. We found that the absence of sick turkeys, the presence of footbaths, the absence of nearby poultry farms, concrete flooring, and the avoidance of mixing newly purchased turkeys with existing stock can substantially reduce the risk of AIV circulation in turkey farms (odds ratio ranging from 0.02 to 0.08). Furthermore, the absence of nearby live bird markets, limiting wild bird access, no visitor access, improved floor cleaning frequency, and equipment disinfection practices also had a substantial impact on lowering the AIV risk in the farms (odds ratio ranging from 0.10 to 0.13). The results of our study underscore the importance of implementing feasible and cost-effective biosecurity measures aimed at reducing AIV transmission in turkey farms. Particularly in resource-constrained environments such as Bangladesh, such findings might assist governmental entities in enhancing biosecurity protocols within their poultry sector, hence mitigating and potentially averting the transmission of AIV and spillover to humans.

Potential Hepatoprotective Effect of Matricaria Pubescens on High-Fat Diet-Induced Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Rats.

This study aimed to identify the phytochemical compounds of Matricaria pubescens by LC-MS/MS and evaluate the potential protective effect of its supplementation in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adult rats through modulation of oxidative stress and histopathological changes. Twenty-four male rats were randomly divided into four groups. The first group served as control and received the standard diet. The second group (HFD) received a high-fat diet only (30 % of sheep fat). The third group's (control+MP) animals received a standard diet supplemented with 5 % M. pubescens (w/w). The fourth group (HFD+MP) received a high-fat diet supplemented with 5 % M. pubescens for 16 weeks. LC-MS/MS analysis showed that M. pubescens contains many phytochemical compounds. It was observed that the ethanolic extract of M. pubescens has a higher phenolic content than the aqueous extract. The supplementation of M. pubescens (5 % w/w) to HFD rats decreased significantly (p<0.01) body weight, liver and epididymal adipose tissue relative weights, glycemia, triglycerides (TG), insulin resistance, liver markers, TNF-α, malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PCO), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) level, and increased reduced glutathione (GSH) level, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase activities as well as ameliorated histological alterations through the reduction hepatic lipid deposition and adipocytes hypertrophy compared to the HFD group. We conclude that M. pubescens powder may be effective for correcting hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, insulin resistance, and liver markers while decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver of high-fat diet-fed rats.

Clinical and histopathological characteristics of primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in Turkish adults.

The data regarding primary FSGS (pFSGS) from different parts of the world differ. While the prevalence of pFSGS has been increasing in Western countries like the USA, it follows an inconsistent trend in Europe and Asia and a decreasing trend in Far Eastern countries such as China in the last two decades. There are undetermined factors to explain those national and geographic discrepancies. Herein, we aimed to reveal the current prevalence with clinical and histopathological characteristics of pFSGS in Turkish adults. This study includes the biopsy-proven pFSGS patients data recorded between 2009 and 2019, obtained from the national multicenter primary glomerulonephritis registry system of the Turkish Society of Nephrology Glomerular Diseases (TSN-GOLD) database. 850 of the 3875 primer glomerulonephritis patients(21.9%) have pFSGS. The mean age is 40.5 ± 14.2 and 435 (51.2%) of patients are male. Nephrotic syndrome is the most common biopsy indication (59.2%). 32.6% of patients have hematuria, 15.2% have leukocyturia and 7.8% have both. Serum creatinine, albumin, and proteinuria are 1.0 mg/dL (IQR = 0.7-1.4) mg/dl, 3.4 ± 0.9 g/dl, 3400 mg/day(IQR, 1774-5740), respectively. Females have lower mean arterial pressure (- 2.2 mmHg), higher eGFR (+ 10.0 mL/min/1.73 m2), and BMI (+ 1.6 kg/m2) than males. Thickened basal membrane(76.6%) and mesangial proliferation (53.5%) on light microscopy are the major findings after segmental sclerosis. IgM (32.7%) and C3 (32.9%) depositions are the most common findings on immunofluorescence microscopy. IgM positivity is related to lower eGFR, serum albumin, and higher proteinuria. The prevalence of pFSGS is stable although slightly increasing in Turkish adults. The characteristics of the patients are similar to those seen in Western countries.

The prevalence of simian malaria in wild long-tailed macaques throughout Peninsular Malaysia.

The parasite Plasmodium knowlesi has been the sole cause of malaria in Malaysia from 2018 to 2022. The persistence of this zoonotic species has hampered Malaysia's progress towards achieving the malaria-free status awarded by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Due to the zoonotic nature of P. knowlesi infections, it is important to study the prevalence of the parasite in the macaque host, the long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis). Apart from P. knowlesi, the long-tailed macaque is also able to harbour Plasmodium cynomolgi, Plasmodium inui, Plasmodium caotneyi and Plasmodium fieldi. Here we report the prevalence of the 5 simian malaria parasites in the wild long-tailed macaque population in 12 out of the 13 states in Peninsular Malaysia using a nested PCR approach targeting the 18s ribosomal RNA (18s rRNA) gene. It was found that all five Plasmodium species were widely distributed throughout Peninsular Malaysia except for states with major cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. Of note, Pahang reported a malaria prevalence of 100% in the long-tailed macaque population, identifying it as a potential hotspot for zoonotic transmission. Overall, this study shows the distribution of the 5 simian malaria parasite species throughout Peninsular Malaysia, the data of which could be used to guide future malaria control interventions to target zoonotic malaria.

Removal Efficiency and Effectiveness of Four Different Fiber Posts Using Five Different Drill Systems in Multirooted Teeth.

AIM: In comparing the effectiveness and efficiency of different types of post removal systems in removing different types of fiber posts (FPs), this study aims to shed light on the success of removal by currently available drill systems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 200 maxillary first molars, were root canal treated and prepared to receive posts. The molars were divided into four groups corresponding to four different FPs: Group RX, Radix FP; Group RF, Reforpost Glass Fiber; Group HI; Hi-Rem Endodontic Post; and Group DT, D.T. Light-Post Illusion X-RO. Fiber posts were done with luting by Gradia Core (GC America, Inc.). Groups were again divided into five subgroups corresponding to the technique by which the FP was removed into as follows: Subgroup P, PD-25-1.1 Drill; subgroup G, GC FP Drill; subgroup E, EasyPost Precision Drill; subgroup R, Reaccess Carbide Double Taper Kit; and subgroup H; H-Endodontic Drill. After posts were removed, effectiveness and efficiency were documented. Data were tabulated and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Strong significant differences regarding efficiency among groups (FP type) and subgroups (drills used) (p = 0.00) were shown by the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. Subgroup DT-G scored the longest mean removal time (20.9 minutes) while Subgroup RX-R scored the shortest mean removal time (1.4 minutes) Regarding effectiveness, strong significant differences among groups (p = 0.00) and subgroups (p = 0.00) were shown by one-way ANOVA. Subgroup RF-G scored the highest scale (5.2) whereas subgroup HI-R scored the lowest mean scale (1.2). CONCLUSION: The difference was strongly significant between tested post-removal kits and between tested FPs. Re-access Carbide Double Taper Kit performed superiorly in both effectiveness and efficiency, followed by PD-25-1.1 Drill. Hi-Rem post showed the best retrieving results among other FPs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Knowing the best technique and tools for post removal could spare the practitioner any unwanted complications during post removal. How to cite this article: Sayed M, Alahmad AM, Alhajji KS, et al. Removal Efficiency and Effectiveness of Four Different Fiber Posts Using Five Different Drill Systems in Multirooted Teeth. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(1):72-78.

Culturally Adapted Dental Visual Aids Effect on Behavior Management during Dental Visits in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

AIM: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by unique behavioral patterns, treating children with ASD in the dental clinic has been a great challenge due to their behavior. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of culturally adapted dental visual aids in modifying behavior patterns during dental visits in children with ASD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A controlled, blinded, randomized, clinical trial, with 64 children diagnosed with ASD, were randomly divided into two groups. The study took place between January 2019 and January 2021. The experimental group was provided with culturally adapted dental visual aids created especially for this research and the control group was provided with universal dental visual aids. The children's behavior patterns were evaluated before and after using the dental visual aids. SPSS v.25 was used to process all the data. RESULTS: Behavior patterns have modified significantly in the experimental group (p < 0.001) however, it was statistically insignificant in the control group (p = 0.077). In terms of behavioral patterns, the experimental group outperformed the control group significantly (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The culturally adapted dental visual aids have shown effectiveness in modifying behavior patterns in children diagnosed with ASD during dental visits. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: By evaluating the impact of culturally adapted visual aids on behavior management, the study can enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of dental care for this vulnerable population, ultimately promoting better oral health outcomes and reducing potential trauma associated with dental visits for children with ASD. How to cite this article: Aljubour AA, AbdElBaki M, El Meligy O, et al. Culturally Adapted Dental Visual Aids Effect on Behavior Management during Dental Visits in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(1):20-28.

Estimation of organ and effective doses of CBCT scans of radiotherapy using size-specific field of view (FOV): a Monte Carlo study.

The kV cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is one of the most common imaging modalities used for image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) procedures. Additional doses are delivered to patients, thus assessment and optimization of the imaging doses should be taken into consideration. This study aimed to investigate the influence of using fixed and patient-specific FOVs on the patient dose. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to simulate kV beams of the imaging system integrated into Truebeam linear accelerator using BEAMnrc code. Organ and size-specific effective doses resulting from chest and pelvis scanning protocols were estimated with DOSXYZnrc code using a phantom library developed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) of the US. The library contains 193 (100 male and 93 female) mesh-type computational human adult phantoms, and it covers a large ratio of patient sizes with heights and weights ranging from 150 to 190 cm and 40 to 125 kg. The imaging doses were assessed using variable FOV of three sizes, small (S), medium (M), and large (L) for each scan region. The results show that the FOV and the patient size played a major role in the scan dose. The average percentage differences (PDs) for doses of organs that were fully inside the different FOVs were relatively low, all within 11% for both protocols. However, doses to organs that were scanned partially or near the FOVs were affected significantly. For the chest protocol, the inclusion of the thyroid in the scan field could give a dose of 1-7 mGy/100 mAs to the thyroid, compared to 0.4-1 mGy/100 mAs when it was excluded. Similarly, on average, testes doses could be 6 mGy/100 mAs for the male pelvis protocol compared to 3 mGy/100 mAs when it did not lie in the field irradiated. These dose differences resulted in an average increase of up to 27% in the size-specific effective dose of the protocols. Since changing the field size is possible for CBCT scans, the results suggest that patient-specific scanning protocols could be applied for each scan area in a manner similar to that used for CT scans. Adjustment of the FOV size should be subject to the clinical needs, and assist in improving the treatment accuracy. The patient's height and weight might be considered as the main factors upon which, the selection of the appropriate patient-specific protocol is based. This approach should optimize the imaging doses used for IGRT procedures by minimizing doses of a large ratio of patients.

Exploring the potential of Ziziphus nummularia and luteolin-7-O-glucoside as tubulin inhibitors in cancer therapy and survival.

Cancer is responsible for approximately 10 million deaths worldwide, with 70% of the deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries; as such safer and more effective anti-cancer drugs are required. Therefore, the potential benefits of Ziziphus nummularia and Ziziphus spina-christi as sources of anti-cancer agents were investigated. Z. nummularia and Z. spina-christi extracts were prepared using chloroform, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and water. The extracts' anti-cancer properties were determined using the MTT Cell Viability Assay in four cancer cell lines: breast (KAIMRC2 and MDA-MB-231), colorectal (HCT8), and liver (HepG2). The ApoTox-Glo Triplex Assay and high-content imaging (HCI)-Apoptosis Assay were used to assess KAIMRC2 and HCT8 cells further. In addition, KAIMRC2 cells were tested for microtubule staining, and AKT/mTOR protein expression was determined by western blot analysis. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was performed to identify the secondary metabolites in the ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts, followed by in silico techniques to predict molecular targets and interactions, safety, and pharmacokinetic profile for identified metabolites. Out of the eight extracts, the ethanolic extract of Z. nummularia, exhibited the most potent activity against KAIMRC2 cells with an IC50 value of 29.2 µg/ml. Cancer cell treatment with the ethanolic extract of Z. nummularia resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability with increased apoptosis and cytotoxic effects. Microtubule staining showed a disrupted microtubular network. The ethanolic extract treatment of KAIMRC2 cells led to upregulated expression of pAKT and pmTOR. In silico studies predicted luteolin-7-O-glucoside to be a ligand for tubulin with the highest docking score (- 7.686) and similar binding interactions relative to the native ligand. Further computational analysis of the metabolites showed acceptable pharmacokinetic and safety profiles, although ethanolic extract metabolites were predicted to have cardiotoxic effects. Ethanolic extraction is optimal for solubilizing active anticancer metabolites from Z. nummularia, which may act by causing M-phase arrest via inhibition of tubulin polymerization. Luteolin-7-O-glucoside is the lead candidate for further research and development as an anti-cancer agent. In addition, this study suggests that herbal treatment could switch on mechanisms of adaptation and survival in cancer cells.

Effects of virtual reality versus motor imagery versus routine physical therapy in patients with parkinson's disease: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Parkinson's Disease (PD) is the second most common progressive neurodegenerative disorder, mostly affecting balance and motor function caused mainly by a lack of dopamine in the brain. The use of virtual reality (VR) and motor imagery (MI) is emerging as an effective method of rehabilitation for people with Parkinson's disease. Motor imagery and virtual reality have not been compared in patients with Parkinson's disease. This randomized clinical trial is unique to compare the effects of virtual reality with routine physical therapy, motor imagery with routine physical therapy, and routine physical therapy alone on balance, motor function, and activities of daily living in patients with Parkinson's disease. METHODS: A total of sixty patients with Parkinson's disease were randomized into three groups using lottery method; twenty with virtual reality therapy in addition to physical therapy (group A = VR + RPT), twenty with imagery therapy in addition to physical therapy (group B = MI + RPT), and twenty were treated with only routine physical therapy (group C = RPT). All patients were evaluated using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) for motor function and activities of daily living, the Berg balance scale (BBS) for balance, and the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABCs) for balance confidence at baseline, six and twelve weeks, and one month after treatment discontinuation. The one-way ANOVA was used to compare the outcomes between three groups, and the repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare the outcomes within each of the three groups at a significance level of p-value = 0.05. RESULTS: According to UPDRS III, the VR + RPT group showed significant improvement in motor function, compared to the MI + RPT and RPT groups, as the Mean ± SD at baseline was 33.95 ± 3.501 and at the 12-week assessment was 17.20 ± 9.451 with a p-value = 0.001. In the VR + RPT group, the BBS score at baseline was 37.15 ± 3.437 and at 12th week was 50.10 ± 4.897 with a p-value = 0.019. Among the VR + RPT group, the ABCS score showed significant improvement as the M ± SD at baseline was 57.95 ± 4.629, and at the 12th week was 78.59 ± 6.386 with a p-value = 0.010. At baseline, the UPDRS II for activities of daily living in the VR + RPT group was 25.20 ± 3.036 and at 12th week it was 15.30 ± 2.364 with p-value of 0.000. CONCLUSION: The current study found that the combination of VR and RPT proved to be the most effective treatment method for improving balance, motor function, and activities of daily living in patients with Parkinson's disease when compared to MI + RPT or RPT alone.

Do Alarmins Have a Role in Multiple Myeloma?

Objective: Calprotectin (CLP), S100A6, and High Mobility Group Nucleosome-Binding Protein 1 (HMGN1), known as alarmins, are involved in the pathogenesis of many tumors. In this study, we aimed to inve stigate the relationship of serum CLP, S100A6, and HMGN1 levels with clinical and laboratory findings in Multiple Myeloma (MM) patients and their role in the pathogenesis of MM. Materials and Methods: We measured serum CLP, S100A6, and HMGN1 levels in 55 newly diagnosed patients and 32 healthy controls (HC). Results: We determined significantly decreased serum CLP, S100A6 ve HMGN1 levels in MM patients compared to HC (p=0.012, p=0.001, p=0.030, respectively). ROC analysis was used to determine a diagnostic cut-off value for serum CLP, S100A6 and HMGN1; the cut off value for CLP was <98 ng/ml (AUC = 0.663, 95% CI 0.554-0.761, p=0.009), S100A6 was <1174.5 pg/ml (AUC = 0.706, 95% CI 0.598-0.799, p=0.001), and HMGN1 was <440.18 pg/ml (AUC = 0.640, 95% CI 0.530-0.740, p:0.03). CLP level was found to be statistically significantly in light chain MM patients ( 91.58±22.57) higher than in heavy chain MM patients (79.42±15.83) (p=0.03). A negative correlation was observed between CLP and M protein, IgG, globulin, and beta 2 microglobulin (correlation coefficient: -0,361; -0,370; -0,279; -0,300, p=0,024, p=006, p=0,04, p=0,0033). Conclusion: In this study, we found that serum CLP, S100A6, and HMGN1 levels were statistically lower in newly diagnosed MM patients compared to HC. These results suggest that CLP may binds to the paraprotein produced by heavy chain MM in the blood and therefore its blood levels are found to be low. Additionally, low levels of HMGN1, which is involved in DNA repair, suggest that HMGN1 may contribute to the complex genetic abnormalities found in MM.

Pre-Implementation Analysis of the Usability and Acceptability of a Poststroke Complex Telehealth Biofeedback Intervention.

IMPORTANCE: Complex telehealth interventions can facilitate remote occupational therapy services and improve access for people living with chronic neurological conditions. Understanding the factors that influence the uptake of these technologies is important. OBJECTIVE: To explore the fit between electromyography (EMG) biofeedback and telerehabilitation for stroke survivors, optimize EMG biofeedback interventions, and, more broadly, support other efforts to develop complex telerehabilitation interventions. DESIGN: Pre-implementation mixed-methods analysis of usability and acceptability data collected during a pilot and feasibility study. SETTING: Community. PARTICIPANTS: Adult stroke survivors with hemiparesis (N = 11; M age = 54 yr). INTERVENTION: Game-based EMG biofeedback system for arm sensorimotor rehabilitation, delivered via telehealth. OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire, an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology model questionnaire, and semistructured interview. We coded the interview data using questionnaire constructs. RESULTS: Participants used an EMG biofeedback intervention at home. Quantitative measures show high levels of perceived usability and acceptability, supported by qualitative findings describing specific facilitators and barriers. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Pre-implementation studies can improve the design and relevance of complex telehealth interventions. One major conclusion from this study is the influence of therapy providers on acceptability and usability of complex telehealth interventions. Plain-Language Summary: This study contributes to an emerging body of literature that examines the use of complex telehealth interventions with survivors of neurological injury. The findings highlight the value and support the development and use of complex telehealth interventions, which have the potential to improve remote access to occupational therapy for clients living with chronic neurological conditions. Complex telehealth interventions can open doors for survivors of neurological injury who face barriers to accessing occupational therapy and would benefit from technology-enabled therapy at home.