organo acid-activated clays for water treatment as removal agent of Eosin-Y: Properties, regeneration, and single batch design absorber.

Organoclays have been proposed as efficient removal agents for colored wastewater treatment. In this study, organo-acid-activated clays were investigated for their ability to remove eosin Y dye molecules. Firstly, the clay was acid activated using sulfuric solution at 90 °C for overnight. Secondly, the resulting materials were treated by hexadecyltetramethylammonium bromide solutions to obtain organo-acid-activated clays. Several techniques were used, such as X-ray diffraction, carbon hydrogen nitrogen analysis, silicon-29 and carbon-13 solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance, and nitrogen adsorption isotherms. The cation exchange capacity values were reduced and the specific surface area values increased from 80.1 m2/g to 183.2 m2/g during the acid activation process. The resulting organo-acid-activated clays had a similar expansion of interlayer spacing of 3.90 nm with less intercalated hexadecyltetramethylammonium surfactants, ranging from 0.80 mmol/g to 1.22 mmol/g; 13C solid NMR indicated that the intercalated surfactants exhibited different degree of conformation. Many factors, including the solid dose, solution pH, amount of intercalated surfactants, and starting eosin-Y concentrations, were studied in relation to the removal capabilities of organo acid-activated clays. Based on the Langmuir model, the removal capacity of the organo acid-activated clays ranged from a minimum of 43.5 mg/g to a maximum of 79.3 mg/g, dependent on the surfactant quantities and acid activation degree. , and the pH. The removal percentage of eosin-Y was increased from 50.5 % to 80.8 % by treating the organo acid-activated clay with HCl solution before the removal procedure. Regeneration and reuse of two selected organo acid-activated clays were carried out for seven successive cycles, and a reduction in the initial efficiency was in the range of 26.4 %-30.1 %. However, for organoclay (without acid activation), approximately 52.1 % efficiency was maintained. Using the Langmuir model and mass balance equations, a single-stage adsorber design was suggested for different dye volumes at a constant starting concentration.

Biogenic synthesis of levofloxacin-loaded copper oxide nanoparticles using Cymbopogon citratus: A green approach for effective antibacterial applications.

Despite the success of antibiotics in medicine, the treatment of bacterial infection is still challenging due to emerging resistance and suitable drug delivery system, therefore, innovative approaches focused on nanoparticles based antimicrobial drug delivery systems are highly desired. This research aimed to synthesize Cymbopogon citratus (C. citratus) aqueous extract-mediated copper oxide (CuO-Nps) conjugated with levofloxacin (LFX). The synthesized CuO NPs-LFX nano conjugate was confirmed by analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and infrared and ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy. Antibacterial activities were assessed in vitro through the agar well diffusion method against six bacterial strains of clinical relevance. CuO NPs confirmed by UV-Vis analysis absorption peak observed at 380 nm. TGA analysis showed 8.98% weight loss between the 400-800 °C temperature range. The functional group's presence was confirmed by FTIR analysis. Spherical shape nanoparticles with an average particle size of 55 nm were recorded by FESEM. Results from agar well diffusion assay showed that CuO NPs-LFX prohibited the development of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria at all established concentrations, and the antibacterial propensity was more pronounced as compared to bare CuO NPs, Levofloxacin and C. citratus aqueous extract alone. The results showed that gram-negative bacteria are more susceptible to CuO NPs-LFX nano conjugate and at 10 µgmL-1 concentration, form a 10.1 mm zone of inhibition (ZOI), whereas gram-positive bacteria on the same concentration form 9.5 mm ZOI. LFX-loaded CuO NPs antibacterial activity was observed higher than plant extract, bare CuO NPs, and standard drug (Levofloxacin). This study provides a novel approach for the fabrication of biogenic CuO NPs with antibacterial drug levofloxacin and their usage as nano antibiotic carriers against pathogenic bacteria, especially antibiotic-resistant microbes.

Phytoassisted synthesis of CuO and Ag-CuO nanocomposite, characterization, chemical sensing of ammonia, degradation of methylene blue.

The elimination of hazardous industrial pollutants from aqueous solutions is an emerging area of scientific research and a worldwide problem. An efficient catalyst, Ag-CuO was synthesized for the degradation of methylene blue, the chemical sensing of ammonia. A simple novel synthetic method was reported in which new plant material Capparis decidua was used for the reduction and stabilization of the synthesized nanocatalyst. A Varying amount of Ag was doped into CuO to optimize the best catalyst that met the required objectives. Through this, the Ag-CuO nanocomposite was characterized by XRD, SEM, HR-TEM, EDX, and FTIR techniques. The mechanism of increased catalytic activity with Ag doping involves the formation of charge sink and suppression of drop back probability of charge from conduction to valance band. Herein, 2.7 mol % Ag-CuO exhibited better catalytic activities and it was used through subsequent catalytic experiments. The experimental conditions such as pH, catalyst dose, analyte initial concentration, and contact time were optimized. The as-synthesized nanocomposite demonstrates an excellent degradation efficacy of MB which is 97% at pH 9. More interestingly, the as-synthesized catalyst was successfully applied for the chemical sensing of ammonia even at very low concentrations. The lower limit of detection (LLOD) also called analytic sensitivity was calculated for ammonia sensing and found to be 1.37 ppm.

A review of pre- and post-surface-modified neem (Azadirachta indica) biomass adsorbent: Surface functionalization mechanism and application.

In contemporary wastewater treatment industry, advanced oxidation techniques, membrane filtration, ion exchange, and reverse osmosis are used to treat chemically loaded wastewater. All these methods required highly toxic oxidizing chemicals, high capital investment in membrane/filter materials, and the installation of sophisticated equipment. Wastewater treatment through an adsorption process using biomass-based adsorbent is economical, user-friendly, and sustainable. Neem tree waste has been explored as an adsorbent for wastewater treatment. The chemical components in the neem biomass include carbohydrates, fat, fiber, cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which support the functionalization of neem biomass. Moreover, adsorbent preparation from renewable resources is not only cost-effective and environmentally friendly but also helps in waste management for sustainable growth. Contemporary researchers explored the pre- and post-surface-modified neem biomass adsorbents in scavenging the pollutants from contaminated water. This review extensively explores the activation process of neem biomass, physical and chemical methods of surface modification mechanism, and the factors affecting surface modification. The pollutant removal through pre and post-surface-modified neem biomass adsorbents was also summarized. Furthermore, it also provides a comprehensive summary of the factors that affect the adsorption performance of the neem biomass-derived adsorbents against dyes, metal ions, and other emerging pollutants. Understanding the surface-modification mechanisms and the adsorption efficiency factor of adsorbents will help in harnessing their potential for more efficiently combatting environmental pollution and making strides toward a greener and more sustainable future.

Secondary Analysis of Fluids and Catheters Treatment Trial (FACTT) data reveal poor clinical outcomes in acute respiratory distress syndrome patients with diabetes.

OBJECTIVES: Conflicting reports exist about the link between diabetes mellitus (DM) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Our study examines the impact of pre-existing DM on ARDS patients within the Fluid and Catheter Treatment Trial (FACTT). DESIGN: Conducting a secondary analysis of FACTT data, we incorporated 967 participants with identified DM status (173 with DM, 794 without DM) and examined outcomes like 90-day mortality, hospital and ICU stays, and ventilator days until unassisted breathing. The primary outcome of hospital mortality at day 90 was evaluated through logistic regression using IBM SPSS software. Additionally, we assessed plasma cytokines and chemokines utilizing a human magnetic bead-based multiplex assay. RESULTS: Patients with pre-existing DM exhibited a lower survival rate compared to non-DM patients (61.3 vs. 72.3 %, p = 0.006). Subjects with DM experienced significantly longer hospital lengths of stay (24.5 vs. 19.7 days; p = 0.008) and prolonged ICU stays (14.8 vs. 12.4 days; p = 0.029). No significant difference was found in ventilator days until unassisted breathing between the two groups (11.7 vs. 10; p = 0.1). Cytokine/chemokine analyses indicated a non-significant trend toward heightened levels of cytokines (TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-6) and chemokines (CRP, MCP-1) in DM patients compared to non-DM on both days 0 and 1. Notably, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) exhibited significantly higher levels in DM compared to non-DM individuals. CONCLUSIONS: ARDS patients with DM suffered worse clinical outcomes compared to non-DM patients, indicating that DM may negatively affect the respiratory functions in these subjects. Further comprehensive clinical and pre-clinical studies will strengthen this relationship.

Updates on the Prognosis of Giant Cell Arteritis: A Systematic Review.

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is considered the most common type of vasculitis, especially in people aged 50 years or older, and imaging studies have helped predict its systemic nature. We conducted this review to highlight the results of the recently published articles considering the prognosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA). We searched for the relevant literature in SCOPUS, PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct and were included. We used Rayyan (Rayyan Systems, Cambridge, Massachusetts) throughout this systematic approach. The search resulted in twelve studies with 2600 patients with GCA diagnosis; most of them, 1853 (71.3%), were females. This systematic review found that most of the GCA patients experienced at least one relapse episode, primarily in patients younger than 75 years, with dependency on glucocorticoids, female sex, and involvement of large vessel vasculitis. We also found that stroke in GCA patients was associated with a bad prognosis. Therefore, we think more prospective studies are needed to enhance particular patient outcomes, and new therapeutic approaches using accessible biotherapies like tocilizumab and other similar medications are required.

Infective Endocarditis Caused By Streptococcus pluranimalium: A Case Report.

Infective endocarditis (IE) refers to an infection of the endocardium that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It can manifest either acutely or sub-acutely. Which can be complicated to stroke and congestive heart failure. We report a case of IE caused by Streptococcus (S.) pluranimalium. It is a rare organism that was discovered in 1999 in infections affecting domestic animals. It can cause serious complications, such as brain abscesses, and IE in both humans and animals. Our patient was diagnosed with IE caused by S. pluranimalium based on modified Duke's criteria. After the diagnosis was made, the patient started on intravenous antibiotics according to the blood cultures. Then, the patient significantly improved. We are reporting this case because only a few cases were documented for infective endocarditis caused by S. pluranimalium.

Stress-Related Hair Loss Among the General Population in Al Majma'ah, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Hair loss is a prevalent concern affecting individuals worldwide, often attributed to various factors including genetics, hormonal changes, and stress. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of stress-related hair loss among the general population in Al Majma'ah, Saudi Arabia, and hair loss association with sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1080 participants. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire that encompassed sociodemographic factors, stress levels, psychosocial factors, and habits related to hair care and lifestyle. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analysis. Results The study revealed that 770 (71.3%) of participants reported experiencing hair loss, with females showing a higher prevalence compared to males 622 vs. 148 (78.2% vs. 51.9%). A significant relationship between age and hair loss was observed (Chi-x2 = 8.264, p-value = 0.016), with individuals aged 31 to 40 years experiencing hair loss more frequently 108 (80.6%). Stress was found to be a significant contributing factor to hair loss (χ^2 = 37.533, p < 0.001), with 674 (73.8%) of participants reporting stress. Moreover, stress levels exhibited a dose-response relationship with the severity of hair loss. Psychosocial factors, including personal relationship problems and financial difficulties, also demonstrated significant associations with hair loss (p-value = 0.005, 0.003, respectively). Conclusion The study underscores the considerable prevalence of stress-related hair loss among the general population in Al Majma'ah, Saudi Arabia. Stress, along with various sociodemographic and psychosocial factors, emerged as significant contributors to hair loss. These findings emphasize the need for holistic approaches that address both physiological and psychological aspects to mitigate the burden of hair loss in the community. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and develop targeted interventions for individuals at risk of stress-induced hair loss.

FeS2 and WO3 nanoparticles decorated on biochar as a high throughput electrode for supercapacitors.

The need for cutting-edge energy storage technologies, such as supercapacitors, has been enhanced tremendously to meet the demands of the growing population and depleting fossil fuel reserves. Herein, we reported the synthesis of FeS2 and WO3 nanoparticles decorated on the biochar derived from peanut shells using a facile ultrasonication approach. SEM, TEM, XPS, XRD, FTIR and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms characterized the structural and physical properties of the as-synthesized materials. BET analysis revealed a specific surface area of 259.87 m2 g-1 for the ternary composite, which serves as a better foundation for transmitting ions and electrons. The composite material derives its advantages from the synergistic effect of biochar's high electronic conductivity and the better capacity retention of FeS2 and WO3 nanoparticles. The ternary composite exhibits excellent electrochemical performance when used as the electrode material for supercapacitors. It offers a high specific capacitance of 319.96 F g-1 at a current density of 1.0 A g-1 and an impressive rate capability, maintaining 82.93% of its initial performance at a current density of 6 A g-1, even after 1000 cycles. Preparing biochar/FeS2/WO3 material with improved electrochemical properties offers a viable pathway for advancing its utilization in supercapacitor applications.

Synthesis of novel benzopyrimido[4,5-d]azoninone analogs catalyzed by biosynthesized Ag-TiO2 core/shell magnetic nanocatalyst and assessment of their antioxidant activity.

The present work reported the synthesis of novel benzopyrimido[4,5-d]azoninone analogs using a biosynthesized Ag-TiO2 core/shell magnetic nanocatalyst. Accordingly, three-component one-pot reactions of benzoazonine-dione with thiourea and aryl aldehyde derivatives under nanocatalytic and optimized conditions afforded reasonable to brilliant yields of the target products (57-91%). The nanocatalyst was synthesized by a facile method using turmeric ethanol extract as a reducing and chelating agent. The synthesized nanocatalyst was verified by FT-IR, XRD, zeta potential, EDX, SEM, and TEM. The nanocatalyst presented remarkable catalytic activity for the synthesis of the target products. The procedure provided biosynthesis of the nanocatalyst, accessible reagents, high yields and rates of the reactions, nanocatalyst recyclability, and ease of product isolation and purification. The novel products were characterized by FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, mass spectra, and 2D NMR analysis (COSY, NOESY, HMQC & HSQC) spectral analyses. The antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH and phosphomolybdate assays, in which the compounds exhibited excellent potency. Overall, this approach could be used to develop new and sustainable methods for the synthesis of antioxidants and other biologically active molecules.

A multi-arm, parallel, preclinical study investigating the potential benefits of acetazolamide, candesartan, and triciribine in combination with fluconazole for the treatment of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis.

Cryptococcus neoformans, an opportunistic fungal pathogen, primarily infects immunodeficient patients frequently causing cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM). Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is a serious complication responsible for increased morbidity and mortality in CM patients. Non-invasive pharmacological agents that mitigate ICP could be beneficial in treating CM patients. The objective of the study was to investigate the efficacy of acetazolamide (AZA), candesartan (CAN), and triciribine (TCBN), in combination with the antifungal fluconazole, on C. neoformans-induced endothelial, brain, and lung injury in an experimental mouse model of CM. Our study shows that C. neoformans increases the expression of brain endothelial cell (BEC) junction proteins Claudin-5 (Cldn5) and VE-Cadherin to induce pathological cell-barrier remodeling and gap formation associated with increased Akt and p38 MAPK activation. All three agents inhibited C. neoformans-induced endothelial gap formation, only CAN and TCBN significantly reduced C. neoformans-induced Cldn5 expression, and only TCBN was effective in inhibiting Akt and p38MAPK. Interestingly, although C. neoformans did not cause brain or lung edema in mice, it induced lung and brain injuries, which were significantly reversed by AZA, CAN, or TCBN. Our study provides novel insights into the direct effects of C. neoformans on BECs in vitro, and the potential benefits of using AZA, CAN, or TCBN in the management of CM patients.

Preparation and Characterization of Mono- and Biphasic Ca1-xAgxHPO4·nH2O Compounds for Biomedical Applications.

This study aimed to explore the effects of the full-scale replacement (up to 100%) of Ca2+ ions with Ag1+ ions in the structure of brushite (CaHPO4·2H2O). This substitution has potential benefits for producing monophasic and biphasic Ca1-xAgxHPO4·nH2O compounds. To prepare the starting solutions, (NH4)2HPO4, Ca(NO3)2·4H2O, and AgNO3 at different concentrations were used. The results showed that when the Ag/Ca molar ratio was below 0.25, partial substitution of Ca with Ag reduced the size of the unit cell of brushite. As the Ag/Ca molar ratio increased to 4, a compound with both monoclinic CaHPO4·2H2O and cubic nanostructured Ag3PO4 phases formed. There was a nearly linear relationship between the Ag ion ratio in the starting solutions and the wt% precipitation of the Ag3PO4 phase in the resulting compound. Moreover, when the Ag/Ca molar ratio exceeded 4, a single-phase Ag3PO4 compound formed. Hence, adjusting the Ag/Ca ratio in the starting solution allows the production of biomaterials with customized properties. In summary, this study introduces a novel synthesis method for the mono- and biphasic Ca1-xAgxHPO4·nH2O compounds brushite and silver phosphate. The preparation of these phases in a one-pot synthesis with controlled phase composition resulted in the enhancement of existing bone cement formulations by allowing better mixing of the starting ingredients.

MPPT of PEM Fuel Cell Using PI-PD Controller Based on Golden Jackal Optimization Algorithm.

Subversive environmental impacts and limited amounts of conventional forms of energy necessitate the utilization of renewable energies (REs). Unfortunately, REs such as solar and wind energies are intermittent, so they should be stored in other forms to be used during their absence. One of the finest storage techniques for REs is based on hydrogen generation via an electrolyzer during abundance, then electricity generation by fuel cell (FC) during their absence. With reference to the advantages of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEM-FC), this is preferred over other kinds of FCs. The output power of the PEM-FC is not constant, since it depends on hydrogen pressure, cell temperature, and electric load. Therefore, a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) system should be utilized with PEM-FC. The techniques previously utilized have some disadvantages, such as slowness of response and largeness of each oscillation, overshoot and undershoot, so this article addresses an innovative MPPT for PEM-FC using a consecutive controller made up of proportional-integral (PI) and proportional-derivative (PD) controllers whose gains are tuned via the golden jackal optimization algorithm (GJOA). Simulation results when applying the GJOA-PI-PD controller for MPPT of PEM-FC reveal its advantages over other approaches according to quickness of response, smallness of oscillations, and tininess of overshoot and undershoot. The overshoot resulting using the GJOA-PI-PD controller for MPPT of PEM-FC is smaller than that of perturb and observe, GJOA-PID, and GJOA-FOPID controllers by 98.26%, 86.30%, and 89.07%, respectively. Additionally, the fitness function resulting when using the GJOA-PI-PD controller for MPPT of PEM-FC is smaller than that of the aforementioned approaches by 93.95%, 87.17%, and 87.97%, respectively.

The Effect of Full-Scale Exchange of Ca2+ with Zn2+ Ions on the Crystal Structure of Brushite and Its Phase Composition.

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of a complete exchange of Ca2+ with Zn2+ ions on the structure of brushite (CaHPO4·2H2O), which might be advantageous in the production process of CaxZn1-xHPO4·nH2O. To acquire the starting solutions needed for the current study, (NH4)2HPO4, Ca(NO3)2·4H2O, and Zn(NO3)2·6H2O were utilized in several molar concentrations. The findings indicate that Ca is partly substituted by Zn when the Zn/Ca molar ratio is below 0.25 and that Zn doping hinders the crystallization of brushite. A continued increase in the Zn/Ca molar ratio to 1 (at which point the supersaturation of the Zn solution rises) led to a biphasic compound of monoclinic brushite and parascholzite precipitate. Elevating the Zn/Ca molar ratio to 1.5 resulted in a precipitate of a parascholzite-like mineral. Finally, increasing the Zn/Ca molar ratio to 4 and above resulted in the formation of the hopeite mineral. Future biomaterial production with specific and bespoke characteristics can be achieved by adjusting the Zn/Ca ratio in the starting solution. It Rhas been established that the Zn/Ca ratio in the starting solution can be adjusted to obtain minerals with specific compositions. Thus, new synthesis methods for parascholzite and hopeite were introduced for the first time in this manuscript.

Proposal and Numerical Analysis of Organic/Sb2Se3 All-Thin-Film Tandem Solar Cell.

The low bandgap antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) and wide bandgap organic solar cell (OSC) can be considered suitable bottom and top subcells for use in tandem solar cells. Some properties of these complementary candidates are their non-toxicity and cost-affordability. In this current simulation study, a two-terminal organic/Sb2Se3 thin-film tandem is proposed and designed through TCAD device simulations. To validate the device simulator platform, two solar cells were selected for tandem design, and their experimental data were chosen for calibrating the models and parameters utilized in the simulations. The initial OSC has an active blend layer, whose optical bandgap is 1.72 eV, while the initial Sb2Se3 cell has a bandgap energy of 1.23 eV. The structures of the initial standalone top and bottom cells are ITO/PEDOT:PSS/DR3TSBDT:PC71BM/PFN/Al, and FTO/CdS/Sb2Se3/Spiro-OMeTAD/Au, while the recorded efficiencies of these individual cells are about 9.45% and 7.89%, respectively. The selected OSC employs polymer-based carrier transport layers, specifically PEDOT:PSS, an inherently conductive polymer, as an HTL, and PFN, a semiconducting polymer, as an ETL. The simulation is performed on the connected initial cells for two cases. The first case is for inverted (p-i-n)/(p-i-n) cells and the second is for the conventional (n-i-p)/(n-i-p) configuration. Both tandems are investigated in terms of the most important layer materials and parameters. After designing the current matching condition, the tandem PCEs are boosted to 21.52% and 19.14% for the inverted and conventional tandem cells, respectively. All TCAD device simulations are made by employing the Atlas device simulator given an illumination of AM1.5G (100 mW/cm2). This present study can offer design principles and valuable suggestions for eco-friendly solar cells made entirely of thin films, which can achieve flexibility for prospective use in wearable electronics.

Influence of Al doping in zinc oxide electron transport layer for the degradation triple-cation-based organometal halide perovskite solar cells.

Various strategies have been adapted to fabricate stable organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite (PVT) solar cells (PSCs). The triple-cation (CH3NH3+ (MA+), CH3(NH2)2+ (FA+), and Cs+) along with dual-anion (I- and Br-)-based PVT (TC-PVT) layer offers better stability than single cation-based PVTs. The deprivation of the PVT absorber is also influenced by the interface of the absorber with the charge transport layer (electron transport layer (ETL) and hole transport layer (HTL)). Here, the degradation of the TC-PVT coated on Al-doped zinc oxide (AZO) as well as FTO/AZO/TC-PVT/HTL structured PSC was examined for various Al to Zn molar ratio (RAl/Zn) of AZO. The PL decay study of FTO/AZO/TC-PVT revealed that the lowest degradation in the power (35.38%) was observed for the AZO with RAl/Zn of 5%. Furthermore, the PV cell parameters of the PSCs were analytically determined to explore the losses in the PSCs during degradation. The shunt resistance reduction was maximum (50.32%) for RAl/Zn = 10%, whereas, minimum shunt loss (7.33%) for RAl/Zn of 2%. The highest loss due to series resistance was observed for RAl/Zn of 0%. The changes in diode ideality factor (n) and reverse saturation current density (J0) were the smallest for RAl/Znof 10%.

Correlation between Magnetic and Dielectric Response of CoFe2O4:Li1+/Zn2+ Nanopowders Having Improved Structural and Morphological Properties.

The vast applicability of spinel cobalt ferrite due to its unique characteristics implies the need for further exploration of its properties. In this regard, structural modification at the O-site of spinel with Li1+/Zn2+ was studied in detail for exploration of the correlation between structural, magnetic, and dielectric properties of the doped derivatives. The CTAB-assisted coprecipitation method was adopted for the synthesis of the desired compositions owing to its cost effectiveness and size controlling ability. Redistribution of cations at T- and O-sites resulted in the expansion of the crystal lattice, but no distortion of the cubic structure was observed, which further supports the flexible crystal structure of spinel for accommodating larger Li1+/Zn2+ cations. Moreover, an XPS analysis confirmed the co-existence of the most stable oxidation states of Zn2+, Li1+, Co2+, and Fe3+ ions with unstable Co3+ and Fe2+ ions as well, which induces the probability of hopping mechanisms to a certain extent and is a well-established behavior of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles. The experimental results showed that Li1+/Zn2+ co-doped samples exhibit the best magnetic properties at dopant concentration x = 0.3. However, increasing the dopant content causes disturbance at both sites, resulting in decreasing magnetic parameters. It is quite evident from the results that dielectric parameters are closely associated with each other. Therefore, dopant content at x = 0.1 is considered the threshold value exhibiting the highest dielectric parameters, whereas any further increase would result in decreasing the dielectric parameters. The reduced dielectric properties and enhanced magnetic properties make the investigated samples a potential candidate for magnetic recording devices.

MicroRNA-155 and Disease-Related Immunohistochemical Parameters in Cutaneous Melanoma.

Cutaneous melanoma is a severe and life-threatening form of skin cancer with growing incidences. While novel interventions have improved prognoses for these patients, early diagnosis of targeted treatment remains the most effective approach. MicroRNAs have grown to good use as potential biomarkers for early detection and as targets for treatment. miR-155 is well-studied for its role in tumor cell survival and proliferation in various tissues, although its role in melanoma remains controversial. In silico data analysis was performed in the dbDEMC v.3 to identify differentially expressed miRNA. We validated gene targets in melanoma using TarBase v8.0 and miRPath v3.0 and determined protein-protein interactions of the target genes. One hundred forty patients (age range 21-90 years) with cutaneous melanoma who underwent resection were included. Molecular assessment using Real-Time RT-qPCR, clinicopathological associations, and a literature review for the different roles of miR-155 in melanoma were performed. Analysis of the dbDEMC reveals controversial findings. While there is evidence of upregulation of miR-155 in primary and metastatic melanoma samples, others suggest decreased expression in later-stage melanoma and cases with brain metastasis. miR-155 has been overexpressed in prior cases of melanoma and precancerous lesions, and it was found to be dysregulated when compared to benign nevi. While miR-155 expression was associated with favorable outcomes in some studies, others showed an association with metastasis. Patients with high levels of miR-155 also noted reduction after receiving anti-PD-1 treatment, correlated with more prolonged overall survival. In our patient's cohort, 22.9% relapsed during treatment, and 45% developed recurrence, associated with factors such as lymph node infiltration, high mitotic index, and positive staining for CD117. Although overall analysis revealed miR-155 downregulation in melanoma specimens compared to non-cancer tissues, increased expression of miR-155 was associated with cases of superficial spreading melanoma subtype (p = 0.005) and any melanoma with a high mitotic rate (p = 0.010). The analysis did not identify optimum cutoff values to predict relapse, recurrence, or mortality. In conclusion, miR-155 could have, in part, a potential prognostic utility in cutaneous melanoma. Further mechanistic studies are required to unravel the multifunctional role of miR-155 in melanoma.

Prevalence, Knowledge, and Attitude Toward Substance Abuse, Alcohol Intake, and Smoking Among Male High School Students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

BACKGROUND:  The prevalence of smoking, alcohol intake and drug use among young people is increasing worldwide. AIM: The aim is to determine the prevalence, knowledge, and attitudes of male high school students toward substance abuse, alcohol intake, and smoking in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. METHODS:  A survey was conducted from March to May 2021 using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to male high school students in grades 10 to 12 from randomly selected eight public and three private schools in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. RESULTS: A total of 400 male high school students participated in this study. The mean age of participants was 17.5 ± 1.3 years (range: 15 to 21 years old). A total of 281 students (70.2%) attended eight public/government schools and 119 (29.8%) attended three private or international schools. Most students (>70%) had knowledge of the harmful effects of smoking, alcohol, and drugs. Nonetheless, the prevalence of smoking, alcohol intake, and drug abuse was 27.8%, 11.5%, and 9.5%, respectively. Students began smoking before age 15, drinking alcohol before age 20, and using drugs as early as age 14. Most smokers and students that drank alcohol procure these substances by themselves whereas many students that took illegal drugs from friends. These substances markedly affected the students' school performance. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of smoking, alcohol intake, and drug use were high. Students began smoking, drinking alcohol, and using abused drugs at an early age, which were influenced by friends, peers, or their siblings. Some students purchase these substances by themselves while some got them from friends, especially alcohol. These practices affected their performance at school. Although many students were aware of the harmful effects of smoking, alcohol intake, and substance abuse, some students had opposing perspectives. Therefore, health authorities need to educate these students and institute structural and emotional support for students who are in these vices to mitigate misuse, long-term use, and addiction.

Effect of H2O2 @CuONPs in the UV Light-Induced Removal of Organic Pollutant Congo Red Dye: Investigation into Mechanism with Additional Biomedical Study.

Hazardous dyes in industrial wastewater are an internationally recognized issue for community health. Nanoparticles synthesized through green protocols are a fascinating research field with numerous applications. The current study mainly aimed to investigate the degradation of Congo red (CR) dye under UV light in the presence of H2O2 and the photocatalytic activity of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs). For CuONP formation, Citrus maxima extract contains a high number of phytochemical constituents. The size of CuONPs ranges between 25 and 90 nm. The photocatalytic activity of CuONPs with the addition of H2O2 was observed and analyzed under UV light to eliminate CR dye. The UV light caused the decomposition of H2O2, which produced ·OH radicals. The results revealed a significant increment in dye degradation during the presence of H2O2. The effect of concentration on the degradation of the CR dye was also studied. The degradation pathway of organic pollutants was reputable from the hydroxy radical medicated degradation of CR. Advanced Oxidation Treatment depends on the in situ production of reactive ·OH species and is presented as the most effective procedure for decontamination. The biological activity of CuONPs was evaluated against Escherichia coli Bacillus subtillis, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella flexenari, Acinetobacter Klebsiella pneumonia, Salmonella typhi and Micrococcus luteus. The newly synthesised nanomaterials showed strong inhibition activity against Escherichia coli (45%), Bacillus subtilis (42%) and Acinetobacter species (25%). The activity of CuONPs was also investigated against different fungus species such as: Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Candida glabrata, T. longifusus, M. Canis, C. glabrata and showed a good inhibition zone against Candida glabrata 75%, Aspergillus flavus 68%, T. longifusus 60%. The materials showed good activity against C. glaberata, A. flavus and T. longifusus. Furthermore, CuONPs were tested for antioxidant properties using 2, 2 diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) (DPPH).