Autotrophic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria （AOB） have been widely studied in constructed wetlands systems, while mixotrophic AOB have been less thoroughly examined. Heterotrophic bacteria were isolated from wastewater a...Autotrophic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria （AOB） have been widely studied in constructed wetlands systems, while mixotrophic AOB have been less thoroughly examined. Heterotrophic bacteria were isolated from wastewater and rhizospheres of macrophytes of constructed wetlands, and then cultivated in a mixotrophic medium containing ammonium and acetic acid. A molecular characterization was accomplished using ITS-PCR amplification, and phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene Sequences. Results showed the presence of 35 bacteria, among 400 initially heterotrophic isolates, that were able to remove ammonia. These 35 isolates were classified into 10 genetically different groups based on ITS pattern. Then, a collection of 10 isolates were selected because of their relatively high ammonia removal efficiencies （ARE≥ 80%） and their phylogenetic diversity. In conditions of mixotrophy, these strains were shown to be able to grow （increase of optical density OD660 during incubation with assimilation of nitrogen into cellular biomass） and to oxidize ammonia （important ammonia oxidation efficiencies, AOE between 79% and 87%）. Among these facultative mixotrophic AOB, four isolates were genetically related to Firmicutes （Bacillus and Exiguobacterium）, three isolates were affiliated to Actinobacteria （Arthrobacter） and three other isolates were associated with Proteobacteria （Pseudomonas, Ochrobactrum and Bordetella）.展开更多
The objective of this study was to prepare cubosomal nanoparticles containing a hydrophilic anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil(5-FU) for liver targeting. Cubosomal dispersions were prepared by disrupting a cubic gel phase...The objective of this study was to prepare cubosomal nanoparticles containing a hydrophilic anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil(5-FU) for liver targeting. Cubosomal dispersions were prepared by disrupting a cubic gel phase of monoolein and water in the presence of Poloxamer 407 as a stabilizer.Cubosomes loaded with 5-FU were characterized in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, 5-FU-loaded cubosomes entrapped 31.21% drug and revealed nanometer-sized particles with a narrow particle size distribution. In vitro 5-FU release from cubosomes exhibited a phase of rapid release of about half of the entrapped drug during the first hour, followed by a relatively slower drug release as compared to 5-FU solution. In vivo biodistribution experiments indicated that the cubosomal formulation significantly(Po 0.05) increased5-FU liver concentration, a value approximately 5-fold greater than that observed with a 5-FU solution.However, serum serological results and histopathological findings revealed greater hepatocellular damage in rats treated with cubosomal formulation. These results demonstrate the successful development of cubosomal nanoparticles containing 5-FU for liver targeting. However, further studies are required to evaluate hepatotoxicity and in vivo antitumor activity of lower doses of 5-FU cubosomal formulation in treatment of liver cancer.展开更多
The current study was performed to evaluate the liver function status as well as molecular characterization of the recovered worms in rats experimentally infected with F. hepatica. Sixteen male Wister rats aged 30 day...The current study was performed to evaluate the liver function status as well as molecular characterization of the recovered worms in rats experimentally infected with F. hepatica. Sixteen male Wister rats aged 30 days were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 8). The first group was infected orally with 15 viable encysted metacercaria of F. hepatica per animal. The other group was kept non-infected (control group). At zero time (before infection), the 2<sup>nd</sup>, 4<sup>th</sup>, 6<sup>th</sup>, 8<sup>th</sup>, 10<sup>th</sup>, 12<sup>th</sup> and 14<sup>th</sup> weeks post-infection (WPI), blood and serum samples were collected via puncture of retro-orbital plexus of veins from each rat. Serum enzyme level (AST and ALT) and total protein were measured, and the serum protein profile was carried out using agarose gel electrophoresis. During the period of the experiment, serum ALT and AST activities and serum total globulins significantly increased while serum total proteins and albumin markedly decreased in the infected group. On the 14<sup>th</sup> WPI, the data of the electropherogram showed that globulin fractions (α1-, β- and γ-globulin) levels were significantly increased while α2-globulin was markedly decreased in the infected group. The molecular analysis confirmed the amplification of the ITS1, ITS2 and NDI genes of F. hepatica recovered from the infected liver of rats with amplicon sizes of 630, 510 and 560 bp, respectively. Sequencing of the amplified ITS gene resulted in the determination of 3 strains (PP108836, PP108837, and PP108838). Also, analysis of the ITS2 gene resulted in obtaining 3 isolates under the accession numbers (PP109065, PP109066, and PP109067). In conclusion, fasciolosis in the rat model is suitable for routine experimental infections and caused a pronounced liver dysfunction with discharging of the Fasciola eggs in the faeces and the development of adult stages in the bile ducts. Furthermore, molecular techniques are a sensitive tool for the identification and characterisa展开更多
Background and Objective: The outcome of locally advanced and metastatic urothelial carcinoma LA/mUC has improved over the past years with a plethora of new treatments and the approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors ...Background and Objective: The outcome of locally advanced and metastatic urothelial carcinoma LA/mUC has improved over the past years with a plethora of new treatments and the approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), antibody-drug conjugates, and targeted agents, to identify locally advanced metastatic urothelial carcinoma’s current management practices in Lebanon and the implication of the ongoing economic crisis on the medical practice. Methods: An online questionnaire was used to survey ten Lebanese oncologists from six different hospitals, between July 5 and July 11, 2022, requesting information pertaining to their current clinical practice in the pharmacological treatment of locally advanced metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Key Findings: Cisplatin-based chemotherapy was the most frequently reported initial treatment of locally advanced metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Participants reported using immune checkpoint inhibitors in platinum-ineligible patients and those with PDL1 positive tumors. Also, they would not consider the concomitant use of immunotherapy and chemotherapy in the first-line setting. Participants believed that avelumab maintenance is effective in the absence of progression after first-line platinum-based chemotherapy;they would consider initiating it 2 - 10 weeks after completion of chemotherapy. Conclusions and Clinical Implications: After comparing with current international guidelines, this study shows that Lebanese oncologists follow international guidelines and have deep knowledge of recent clinical trials for the management of locally advanced metastatic urothelial carcinoma, regardless of economic crisis challenges.展开更多
Background: Medical and dental students are at risk of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection. The study aimed to assess the vaccination status against Hepatitis B Virus of students in clinical and non-clinical years of a ...Background: Medical and dental students are at risk of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection. The study aimed to assess the vaccination status against Hepatitis B Virus of students in clinical and non-clinical years of a private medical and dental college, and their knowledge, attitude, and awareness about the subject. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a pretested, self-administered questionnaire among 203 medical and dental students of CMH Lahore Medical College and Institute of Dentistry (CMH LMC & IOD) in Lahore, Pakistan. Participants were evaluated for their knowledge and vaccination status against Hepatitis B Virus. Students were considered to be fully vaccinated (recipients of 3 doses), partially vaccinated (recipients of 1 or 2 doses), and unvaccinated. Comparisons were made between students of clinical and non-clinical years. Data was entered and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Results: Only 66% (n = 134) of the 203 participants had ever received a Hepatitis B Virus vaccine out of which a meagre 17.2% (n = 35) were fully vaccinated. No significant difference was found in vaccine uptake between students of clinical and non-clinical years (p-value = 0.181) despite significant differences seen in the knowledge of vaccination schedule (p-value = 0.001), the prevalence of needle-stick injuries (p-value = 0.001), and knowledge of protocols to be followed after a needle-stick injury (p-value = 0.001). Conclusion: Our study found that a large proportion of the student population is vulnerable to HBV infection. There is a need to create awareness regarding the subject to increase vaccine uptake. HBV vaccination should be offered to all currently enrolled students and be made mandatory at the time of admission in the future.展开更多
Seeds of many woody plant species have one of several types of dormancy. They do not germinate unless ,specific environmental signals are in place or events occur. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of s...Seeds of many woody plant species have one of several types of dormancy. They do not germinate unless ,specific environmental signals are in place or events occur. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of scarification treatments on seed dormancy and germination of Acacia nilotica （L.） Willd. ex Del., Prosopis juliflora （Sw.） DC. ：and Dodonaea viscosa （L.） Jacq. The following treatments were applied： T1, untreated seed （control）; T2, sulphuric acid （97%） for 45 min; T3, boiling water for 5 min. The seeds were cultured on a Murashige and Skoog （MS） medium after sterilization. The responses of seeds to treatments were compared with each other and with the control treatment. Germination was observed daily for a 30-day period. Results indicated positive responses to treatments, while impermeable Seed coats may be responsible for low germination rates in intact seeds as seen experimentally in the untreated control. The highest germination was obtained for P. juliflora and D. viscosa acid-scarified seeds （80.8%-90.8%） and for scarified seeds of A. nilotica （50.2%） boiled in water. The germination indices, i.e., final germination percentage （FG）, mean daily germination （MDG） and germination rate （GR）, were significantly affected by treatments and species （p 〈 0.01）.展开更多
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most devastating solid tumors, and it remains one of the most difficult to treat. The treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer (MPC) is systemic, based on chemotherapy or best supporti...Pancreatic cancer is one of the most devastating solid tumors, and it remains one of the most difficult to treat. The treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer (MPC) is systemic, based on chemotherapy or best supportive care, depending on the performance status of the patient. Two chemotherapeutical regimens have produced substantial benefits in the treatment of MPC: gemcitabine in 1997; and FOLFIRIONOX in 2011. FOLFIRINOX improved the natural history of MPC, with overall survival (OS) of 11.1 mo. Nab-paclitaxel associated with gemcitabine is a newly approved regimen for MPC, with a median OS of 8.6 mo. Despite multiple trials, this targeted therapy was not efficient in the treatment of MPC. Many new molecules targeting the proliferation and survival pathways, immune response, oncofetal signaling and the epigenetic changes are currently undergoing phase I and II trials for the treatment of MPC, with many promising results.展开更多
The fatigue behavior, indirect tensile strength （ITS） and resilient modulus test results for warm mix asphalt （WMA） as well as hot mix asphalt （HMA） at different ageing levels were evaluated. Laboratory-prepared...The fatigue behavior, indirect tensile strength （ITS） and resilient modulus test results for warm mix asphalt （WMA） as well as hot mix asphalt （HMA） at different ageing levels were evaluated. Laboratory-prepared samples were aged artificially in the oven to simulate short-term and long term ageing in accordance with AASHTO R30 and then compared with unaged specimens. Beam fatigue testing was performed using beam specimens at 25 ℃ based on AASHTO T321 standard. Fatigue life, bending stiffness and dissipated energy for both unaged and aged mixtures were calculated using four-point beam fatigue test results. Three-point bending tests were performed using semi-circular bend （SCB） specimens at -10 ℃ and the critical mode I stress intensity factor K1 was then calculated using the peak load obtained from the load-displacement curve. It is observed that Sasobit and Rheofalt warm mix asphalt additives have a significant effect on indirect tensile strength, resilient modulus, fatigue behavior and stress intensity factor of aged and unaged mixtures.展开更多
Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome due to structural and/or functional cardiac anomalies, accompanied by elevated natriuretic peptide levels and/or cardiogenic pulmonary or systemic congestion;severely compromi...Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome due to structural and/or functional cardiac anomalies, accompanied by elevated natriuretic peptide levels and/or cardiogenic pulmonary or systemic congestion;severely compromising patients’ health, performance and quality of life. The advancement of novel treatment and their endorsement by international medical and scientific societies have shifted the treatment of HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) towards quadruple therapy: an angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor or an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, a beta-blocker, a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist and a sodium/glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i). This paper reviews the available literature on state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic advances in HFrEF, discusses landmark trials that shifted the paradigm towards quadruple therapy in HFrEF, visits the potential challenges in Lebanon and globally, proposes an algorithm for treatment introduction and sequencing in HFrEF and highlights clinical considerations for HFrEF management and patient education and follow-up. This practical guidance could serve cardiologists and other medical specialists in identifying clinical signs of HFrEF, diagnosing patients, referring them or prescribing the components of quadruple therapy, and offering medical advice and follow-up. We highlight the role of SGLT2is in HF management and their effectiveness in reducing rates of hospitalization for HF as well as cardiovascular deaths, with satisfactory safety profile.展开更多
Background: Nutritional knowledge and practise is an important measure to improve dietary habits and food choices. The daily food should contain balanced nutrition as needed to support optimal growth, avoid deficiency...Background: Nutritional knowledge and practise is an important measure to improve dietary habits and food choices. The daily food should contain balanced nutrition as needed to support optimal growth, avoid deficiency diseases and prevent the diseases which might interfere with the children health. Materials & Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional non-interventional hospital-based study was carried out among 122 mothers and 122 children by using a non-probability convenience sampling technique in the period of 15 March to 15 April 2023, and using interviews with structural questionnaires, the data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: We found that most of the children had moderate health, while most of the mothers had moderate nutritional knowledge and practise towards their children, also we found that the relationship between mothers’ knowledge and practise and child health was significant (P Conclusion: Mothers’ knowledge and practise among children was moderate and children had moderate health. Wrong beliefs and cultural taboos play major roles in decreasing knowledge and practise.展开更多
Background:No standard monsplasty technique has existed until now.Although various monsplasty methods have been described,they exhibit high complication rates with sparse postoperative data.Studies that used pubic sus...Background:No standard monsplasty technique has existed until now.Although various monsplasty methods have been described,they exhibit high complication rates with sparse postoperative data.Studies that used pubic suspension techniques did not describe exact anatomical landmarks for the mons pexy.This study aimed to improve the aesthetic and functional appearance of the pubic region with long-term results for all grades of pubic ptosis or bulging with abdominoplasty and provide exact anatomical points to anchor the mons to the rectus sheath.Methods:This non-randomized prospective clinical trial included 30 patients with various degrees of abdominal wall laxity between December 2017 and September 2019.The surgical procedure was performed for female patients with pendulous abdomen,pubic ptosis or bulging,body mass index≤35 kg/m^(2),and age 18–60 years.All patients were followed for up to one year;patient satisfaction was assessed before and after surgery regarding aesthetic results and impact on outfits,hygiene,and sexual activity.Results:The marginal homogeneity test revealed a statistically significant patient satisfaction rate regarding outfits,sexual function,hygiene,and aesthetics.Regarding postoperative complications,seroma(one case)was managed by aspiration,and one case of wound dehiscence was managed conservatively with dressings.Conclusion:This study recommends a quick and reproducible monsplasty technique with a low complication rate,a technique that helps determine specific anatomical landmarks for anchoring the mons to the rectus sheath.Combining this technique with abdominal contouring is advisable for optimal aesthetic results and maintained lymphatic drainage in the pubic region.展开更多
Objective:The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of intravesical instillation of platelet-rich plasma(PRP)to treat interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome(IC/BPS).Materials and methods:Twenty PRP sa...Objective:The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of intravesical instillation of platelet-rich plasma(PRP)to treat interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome(IC/BPS).Materials and methods:Twenty PRP samples were tested in vitro for stability after exposure to urine samples with different pH.A pilot study involving 21 female patients with IC/BPS was conducted,and 6 weekly doses of autologous PRP(50 mL)were administered.Patients were followed up at the 2nd,4th,8th,and 12th weeks after terminating instillation.The primary endpoint was the visual analog scale(VAS)for pain,and the secondary endpoints included the IC symptom index,IC problem index of the O'Leary-Sant questionnaire and global response assessment,urine culture,and uroflowmetry.Success was defined as a reduction in VAS by 30%or more compared with basal level,and adverse events were recorded.Results:The mean±SD of VAS was significantly reduced compared with basal level(4.4±2.6 vs.8.8±1.1,respectively,p=0.001).Meanwhile,80%of cases were considered successful,with a 50.1%reduction in the mean score compared with the basal level.The mean±SD of IC symptom index and IC problem index significantly improved compared with the basal level.Global response assessment was markedly,moderately,and slightly improved in 2(10%),10(50%),and 5(25%)patients,respectively,and showed no change in 3(15%).Three patients had positive urine cultures at follow-up,but 1 withdrew after 2 sessions because of a lack of efficacy.Conclusions:Repeated intravesical instillation of PRP could be considered an effective and safe approach for treating IC/BPS.展开更多
Background:No convenient,inexpensive,and non-invasive screening tools exist to identify pulmonary hypertension(PH)-left heart disease(LHD)patients during the early stages of the disease course.This study investigated ...Background:No convenient,inexpensive,and non-invasive screening tools exist to identify pulmonary hypertension(PH)-left heart disease(LHD)patients during the early stages of the disease course.This study investigated whether different methods of lung ultrasound(LUS)could be used for the initial investigation of PH-LHD.Methods:This was a single-center prospective observational study which was performed in the Zigong Fourth People’s Hospital.We consecutively enrolled patients with heart failure(HF)admitted to the emergency intensive care unit from January 2018 to May 2020.Transthoracic echocardiography and LUS were performed within 24 h before discharge.We used the Spearman coefficient for correlation analysis between ultrasound scores and pulmonary arterial systolic pressure(PASP).Bland-Altman plots were generated to inspect possible bias,and receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curves were calculated to assess the relationship between ultrasound scores and an intermediate and high echocardiographic probability of PH-LHD.Results:Seventy-one patients were enrolled in this study,with an overall median age of 79(interquartile range:71.5–84.0)years.Among the 71 patients,36(50.7%)cases were male,and 26(36.6%)had an intermediate and high echocardiographic probability of PH.All four LUS scores in patients with an intermediate and high probability of PH were significantly higher than in patients with a low probability of PH(P<0.05).The correlation coefficient(r)between different LUS scoring methods and PASP was moderate for the 6-zone(r=0.455,P<0.001),8-zone(r=0.385,P=0.001),12-zone(r=0.587,P<0.001),and 28-zone(r=0.535,P<0.001)methods.In Bland-Altman plots,each of the four LUS scoring methods had a good agreement with PASP(P<0.001).The 8-zone and 12-zone methods showed moderately accurate discriminative values in differentiating patients with an intermediate and high echocardiographic probability of PH(P<0.05).展开更多
In this editorial,we comment on the hard and soft tissue applications of different ceramic-based scaffolds prepared by different mechanisms such as 3D printing,sol-gel,and electrospinning.The new concept of regenerati...In this editorial,we comment on the hard and soft tissue applications of different ceramic-based scaffolds prepared by different mechanisms such as 3D printing,sol-gel,and electrospinning.The new concept of regenerative medicine relies on biomaterials that can trigger in situ tissue regeneration and stem cell recruitment at the defect site.A large percentage of these biomaterials is ceramic-based as they provide the essential requirements of biomaterial principles such as tailored multisize porosity,antibacterial properties,and angiogenic properties.All these previously mentioned properties put bioceramics on top of the hierarchy of biomaterials utilized to stimulate tissue regeneration in soft and hard tissue wounds.Multiple clinical applications registered the use of these materials in triggering soft tissue regeneration in healthy and diabetic patients such as bioactive glass nanofibers.The results were promising and opened new frontiers for utilizing these materials on a larger scale.The same results were mentioned when using different forms and formulas of bioceramics in hard defect regeneration.Some bioceramics were used in combination with other polymers and biological scaffolds to improve their regenerative and mechanical properties.All this progress will enable a larger scale of patients to receive such services with ease and decrease the financial burden on the government.展开更多
A machine learning model for regression of interrupted Surface Electromyography(sEMG)signals to future control-oriented signals(e.g.,robot’s joint angle and assistive torque)of an active biomechatronic device for hig...A machine learning model for regression of interrupted Surface Electromyography(sEMG)signals to future control-oriented signals(e.g.,robot’s joint angle and assistive torque)of an active biomechatronic device for high-level myoelectric-based hierarchical control is proposed.A Recurrent Neural Network(RNN)was trained using output data,initially obtained from offline optimization of the biomechatronic(human–robot)device and shifted by the prediction horizon.The input of the RNN consisted of interrupted sEMG signals(to mimic signal disconnections)and previous kinematic signals of the assistive system.The RNN with a 0.1-s prediction horizon could predict the control-oriented joint angle and assistive torque with 92%and 86.5%regression accuracy,respectively,for the test dataset.This proposed approach permits a fast,predictive,and direct estimation of control-oriented signals instead of an iterative process that optimizes assistive torque in the inverse dynamic simulation of a multibody human–robot system.Training with these interrupted input signals significantly improves the regression accuracy in the case of sEMG signal disconnection.This Robust Predictive Control-oriented Machine Learning(Robust-MuscleNET)model can support volitional high-level myoelectric-based control of biomechatronic devices,such as exoskeletons,prostheses,and assistive/resistive robots.Future work should study the application to prosthesis control as well as the repeatability of the high-level controller with electrode shift.The low-level hierarchical controller that manages the human–robot interaction,the assistance/resistance strategy,and the actuator coordination should also be studied.展开更多
Strains of live Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast have exhibited probiotic effects in ruminants. This study investigated the effects of the dietary yeast supplement, S. cerevisiae(Yea-Sacc^(1026)), on primiparous(PP)and ...Strains of live Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast have exhibited probiotic effects in ruminants. This study investigated the effects of the dietary yeast supplement, S. cerevisiae(Yea-Sacc^(1026)), on primiparous(PP)and multiparous(MP) Egyptian buffaloes in early to mid-lactation. Lactating buffaloes were fed either a basal total mixed ration(TMR, control; 4 PP and 8 MP) or the basal TMR plus 10 g Yea-Sacc^(1026) per buffalo cow per day(yeast; 4 PP and 8 MP). The feeds were given from 15 days prepartum to 180 days postpartum. Feed intake, body weight, and milk yields(MY) were recorded, and milk and blood samples were collected for analyses. Feces were collected from days 45 to 47 during early lactation and from days 90 to92 during mid-lactation to determine apparent digestibility of dry matter(DM), organic matter(OM),crude protein(CP) and crude fiber(CF). Energy corrected milk yield(ECM), feed conversion, and energy and nitrogen conversion efficiency were calculated. Yeast treated MP buffaloes consumed more DM(P < 0.041) and CP than the untreated control group. Apparent digestibility of DM and OM were significantly greater at mid-lactation for treated versus control group(P = 0.001). Crude fiber digestibility was greater in MP than in PP buffaloes(P = 0.049), and yeast supplemented MP cows had a greater CF digestibility than control MP buffaloes at mid-lactation(P = 0.010). Total blood lipids decreased after yeast supplementation(P= 0.029). Milk yields, ECM, fat and protein yields increased for yeast treated MP buffaloes(P < 0.039). The study concluded that the response to yeast supplementation in buffalo cows is parity dependent. Multiparous buffaloes respond to yeast supplementation with an increased DM intake and CF digestibility without significant weight gains, allowing a greater ECM yield with less fat mobilization. Supplementing buffaloes with yeast culture may increase milk production in early lactation and results in a more persistent milk production during mid-lactation. Feed conversion and energy and nitr展开更多
Objective: To analyze the phytochemical constituents, and to explore potential protective effect of the methanol extract of Moringa oleifera(M. oleifera) seeds and Egyptian propolis, each alone or concurrently adminis...Objective: To analyze the phytochemical constituents, and to explore potential protective effect of the methanol extract of Moringa oleifera(M. oleifera) seeds and Egyptian propolis, each alone or concurrently administered on acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Methods: Eight groups of 5 rats each were used: normal control group with distilled water, model group, two groups with M. oleifera seeds(100 and 200 mg/kg), two groups with propolis(50 and 100 mg/kg), one group with concurrent administration of both, and one group with prednisolone(reference drug). Macro-and microscopic picture, ulcer index and lesion scores, oxidative markers, inflammatory mediators, in vitro activity of the inflammatory enzymes and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radicals scavenging activity were evaluated. The phytochemical constituents of both extracts were explored by GC-MS analysis. Results: Both treatments modulated the macro-and microscopic picture, decreased the ulcerative index, lesion score, oxidative markers and inflammatory mediators, and inhibited the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. Propolis appeared to be powerful free radicals scavenger. A powerful synergistic effect of both treatments in modulating the course of the disease was reported. GCMS analysis of methanol extract of M. oleifera seeds and propolis revealed the presence of 50 and 34 compounds, respectively. Conclusions: M. oleifera seeds and propolis methanol extracts have modulated the course of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis. Moreover, both treatments induce a good synergistic effect against the disease. Isolation of the active constituents is recommended.展开更多
Phosphogypsum(PG), the main by-product of phosphoric acid production industries, is considered one of the most important secondary sources of rare earth elements(REEs). The current study focuses on the recovery of REE...Phosphogypsum(PG), the main by-product of phosphoric acid production industries, is considered one of the most important secondary sources of rare earth elements(REEs). The current study focuses on the recovery of REEs content and the residual phosphate content existing in the PG with preserving on the CaSO_(4)skeleton to be used in other various applications. These attainments are carried out using citric acid leaching process via soaking technique. Several dissolution parameters for REEs using citric acid were studied, including soaking time, soaking temperature, citric acid concentration, solid-to-liquid ratio, and recycling of the citrate leaching solutions in the further REEs dissolution experiments. The best-operating conditions were 14 d of soaking time, 7.5% citric acid concentration, and the solid-toliquid ratio of 1/5 at ambient temperature. About 79.57% dissolution efficiency of REEs was achieved using the optimal conditions. Applying four soaking stages by mixing different fresh PG samples with the same citrate solution sequentially, cumulative dissolution efficiency for REEs was found to be 64.7% under optimal soaking conditions. REEs were recovered using Dowex 50X8 resin from citrate solutions with 96% extraction efficiency. Dissolution kinetics proved the pseudo-first-order nature, reversible reactions, and two activation energies for all REEs.展开更多
Anal cancers(AC)are relatively rare tumors.Their incidence is increasing,particularly among men who have sex with other men due to widespread infection by human papilloma virus.The majority of anal cancers are squamou...Anal cancers(AC)are relatively rare tumors.Their incidence is increasing,particularly among men who have sex with other men due to widespread infection by human papilloma virus.The majority of anal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas,and they are treated according to stage.In local and locally advanced AC,concomitant chemoradiation therapy based on mitomycin C and 5-Fluorouracil(5-FU)is the current best treatment,while metastatic AC,chemotherapy with 5-FU and cisplatin remains the gold standard.There are no indications for induction or maintenance therapies in locally advanced tumors.Many novel strategies,such as targeted therapies,vaccination,immunotherapy and photodynamic therapy are in clinical trials for the treatment of AC,with promising results in some indications.展开更多
基金supported by a grant from the Tunisian Higher Education and Scientific Research Ministry
文摘Autotrophic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria （AOB） have been widely studied in constructed wetlands systems, while mixotrophic AOB have been less thoroughly examined. Heterotrophic bacteria were isolated from wastewater and rhizospheres of macrophytes of constructed wetlands, and then cultivated in a mixotrophic medium containing ammonium and acetic acid. A molecular characterization was accomplished using ITS-PCR amplification, and phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene Sequences. Results showed the presence of 35 bacteria, among 400 initially heterotrophic isolates, that were able to remove ammonia. These 35 isolates were classified into 10 genetically different groups based on ITS pattern. Then, a collection of 10 isolates were selected because of their relatively high ammonia removal efficiencies （ARE≥ 80%） and their phylogenetic diversity. In conditions of mixotrophy, these strains were shown to be able to grow （increase of optical density OD660 during incubation with assimilation of nitrogen into cellular biomass） and to oxidize ammonia （important ammonia oxidation efficiencies, AOE between 79% and 87%）. Among these facultative mixotrophic AOB, four isolates were genetically related to Firmicutes （Bacillus and Exiguobacterium）, three isolates were affiliated to Actinobacteria （Arthrobacter） and three other isolates were associated with Proteobacteria （Pseudomonas, Ochrobactrum and Bordetella）.
文摘The objective of this study was to prepare cubosomal nanoparticles containing a hydrophilic anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil(5-FU) for liver targeting. Cubosomal dispersions were prepared by disrupting a cubic gel phase of monoolein and water in the presence of Poloxamer 407 as a stabilizer.Cubosomes loaded with 5-FU were characterized in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, 5-FU-loaded cubosomes entrapped 31.21% drug and revealed nanometer-sized particles with a narrow particle size distribution. In vitro 5-FU release from cubosomes exhibited a phase of rapid release of about half of the entrapped drug during the first hour, followed by a relatively slower drug release as compared to 5-FU solution. In vivo biodistribution experiments indicated that the cubosomal formulation significantly(Po 0.05) increased5-FU liver concentration, a value approximately 5-fold greater than that observed with a 5-FU solution.However, serum serological results and histopathological findings revealed greater hepatocellular damage in rats treated with cubosomal formulation. These results demonstrate the successful development of cubosomal nanoparticles containing 5-FU for liver targeting. However, further studies are required to evaluate hepatotoxicity and in vivo antitumor activity of lower doses of 5-FU cubosomal formulation in treatment of liver cancer.
文摘The current study was performed to evaluate the liver function status as well as molecular characterization of the recovered worms in rats experimentally infected with F. hepatica. Sixteen male Wister rats aged 30 days were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 8). The first group was infected orally with 15 viable encysted metacercaria of F. hepatica per animal. The other group was kept non-infected (control group). At zero time (before infection), the 2<sup>nd</sup>, 4<sup>th</sup>, 6<sup>th</sup>, 8<sup>th</sup>, 10<sup>th</sup>, 12<sup>th</sup> and 14<sup>th</sup> weeks post-infection (WPI), blood and serum samples were collected via puncture of retro-orbital plexus of veins from each rat. Serum enzyme level (AST and ALT) and total protein were measured, and the serum protein profile was carried out using agarose gel electrophoresis. During the period of the experiment, serum ALT and AST activities and serum total globulins significantly increased while serum total proteins and albumin markedly decreased in the infected group. On the 14<sup>th</sup> WPI, the data of the electropherogram showed that globulin fractions (α1-, β- and γ-globulin) levels were significantly increased while α2-globulin was markedly decreased in the infected group. The molecular analysis confirmed the amplification of the ITS1, ITS2 and NDI genes of F. hepatica recovered from the infected liver of rats with amplicon sizes of 630, 510 and 560 bp, respectively. Sequencing of the amplified ITS gene resulted in the determination of 3 strains (PP108836, PP108837, and PP108838). Also, analysis of the ITS2 gene resulted in obtaining 3 isolates under the accession numbers (PP109065, PP109066, and PP109067). In conclusion, fasciolosis in the rat model is suitable for routine experimental infections and caused a pronounced liver dysfunction with discharging of the Fasciola eggs in the faeces and the development of adult stages in the bile ducts. Furthermore, molecular techniques are a sensitive tool for the identification and characterisa
文摘Background and Objective: The outcome of locally advanced and metastatic urothelial carcinoma LA/mUC has improved over the past years with a plethora of new treatments and the approval of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), antibody-drug conjugates, and targeted agents, to identify locally advanced metastatic urothelial carcinoma’s current management practices in Lebanon and the implication of the ongoing economic crisis on the medical practice. Methods: An online questionnaire was used to survey ten Lebanese oncologists from six different hospitals, between July 5 and July 11, 2022, requesting information pertaining to their current clinical practice in the pharmacological treatment of locally advanced metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Key Findings: Cisplatin-based chemotherapy was the most frequently reported initial treatment of locally advanced metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Participants reported using immune checkpoint inhibitors in platinum-ineligible patients and those with PDL1 positive tumors. Also, they would not consider the concomitant use of immunotherapy and chemotherapy in the first-line setting. Participants believed that avelumab maintenance is effective in the absence of progression after first-line platinum-based chemotherapy;they would consider initiating it 2 - 10 weeks after completion of chemotherapy. Conclusions and Clinical Implications: After comparing with current international guidelines, this study shows that Lebanese oncologists follow international guidelines and have deep knowledge of recent clinical trials for the management of locally advanced metastatic urothelial carcinoma, regardless of economic crisis challenges.
文摘Background: Medical and dental students are at risk of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection. The study aimed to assess the vaccination status against Hepatitis B Virus of students in clinical and non-clinical years of a private medical and dental college, and their knowledge, attitude, and awareness about the subject. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a pretested, self-administered questionnaire among 203 medical and dental students of CMH Lahore Medical College and Institute of Dentistry (CMH LMC & IOD) in Lahore, Pakistan. Participants were evaluated for their knowledge and vaccination status against Hepatitis B Virus. Students were considered to be fully vaccinated (recipients of 3 doses), partially vaccinated (recipients of 1 or 2 doses), and unvaccinated. Comparisons were made between students of clinical and non-clinical years. Data was entered and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Results: Only 66% (n = 134) of the 203 participants had ever received a Hepatitis B Virus vaccine out of which a meagre 17.2% (n = 35) were fully vaccinated. No significant difference was found in vaccine uptake between students of clinical and non-clinical years (p-value = 0.181) despite significant differences seen in the knowledge of vaccination schedule (p-value = 0.001), the prevalence of needle-stick injuries (p-value = 0.001), and knowledge of protocols to be followed after a needle-stick injury (p-value = 0.001). Conclusion: Our study found that a large proportion of the student population is vulnerable to HBV infection. There is a need to create awareness regarding the subject to increase vaccine uptake. HBV vaccination should be offered to all currently enrolled students and be made mandatory at the time of admission in the future.
文摘Seeds of many woody plant species have one of several types of dormancy. They do not germinate unless ,specific environmental signals are in place or events occur. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of scarification treatments on seed dormancy and germination of Acacia nilotica （L.） Willd. ex Del., Prosopis juliflora （Sw.） DC. ：and Dodonaea viscosa （L.） Jacq. The following treatments were applied： T1, untreated seed （control）; T2, sulphuric acid （97%） for 45 min; T3, boiling water for 5 min. The seeds were cultured on a Murashige and Skoog （MS） medium after sterilization. The responses of seeds to treatments were compared with each other and with the control treatment. Germination was observed daily for a 30-day period. Results indicated positive responses to treatments, while impermeable Seed coats may be responsible for low germination rates in intact seeds as seen experimentally in the untreated control. The highest germination was obtained for P. juliflora and D. viscosa acid-scarified seeds （80.8%-90.8%） and for scarified seeds of A. nilotica （50.2%） boiled in water. The germination indices, i.e., final germination percentage （FG）, mean daily germination （MDG） and germination rate （GR）, were significantly affected by treatments and species （p 〈 0.01）.
文摘Pancreatic cancer is one of the most devastating solid tumors, and it remains one of the most difficult to treat. The treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer (MPC) is systemic, based on chemotherapy or best supportive care, depending on the performance status of the patient. Two chemotherapeutical regimens have produced substantial benefits in the treatment of MPC: gemcitabine in 1997; and FOLFIRIONOX in 2011. FOLFIRINOX improved the natural history of MPC, with overall survival (OS) of 11.1 mo. Nab-paclitaxel associated with gemcitabine is a newly approved regimen for MPC, with a median OS of 8.6 mo. Despite multiple trials, this targeted therapy was not efficient in the treatment of MPC. Many new molecules targeting the proliferation and survival pathways, immune response, oncofetal signaling and the epigenetic changes are currently undergoing phase I and II trials for the treatment of MPC, with many promising results.
文摘The fatigue behavior, indirect tensile strength （ITS） and resilient modulus test results for warm mix asphalt （WMA） as well as hot mix asphalt （HMA） at different ageing levels were evaluated. Laboratory-prepared samples were aged artificially in the oven to simulate short-term and long term ageing in accordance with AASHTO R30 and then compared with unaged specimens. Beam fatigue testing was performed using beam specimens at 25 ℃ based on AASHTO T321 standard. Fatigue life, bending stiffness and dissipated energy for both unaged and aged mixtures were calculated using four-point beam fatigue test results. Three-point bending tests were performed using semi-circular bend （SCB） specimens at -10 ℃ and the critical mode I stress intensity factor K1 was then calculated using the peak load obtained from the load-displacement curve. It is observed that Sasobit and Rheofalt warm mix asphalt additives have a significant effect on indirect tensile strength, resilient modulus, fatigue behavior and stress intensity factor of aged and unaged mixtures.
文摘Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome due to structural and/or functional cardiac anomalies, accompanied by elevated natriuretic peptide levels and/or cardiogenic pulmonary or systemic congestion;severely compromising patients’ health, performance and quality of life. The advancement of novel treatment and their endorsement by international medical and scientific societies have shifted the treatment of HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) towards quadruple therapy: an angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor or an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, a beta-blocker, a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist and a sodium/glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i). This paper reviews the available literature on state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic advances in HFrEF, discusses landmark trials that shifted the paradigm towards quadruple therapy in HFrEF, visits the potential challenges in Lebanon and globally, proposes an algorithm for treatment introduction and sequencing in HFrEF and highlights clinical considerations for HFrEF management and patient education and follow-up. This practical guidance could serve cardiologists and other medical specialists in identifying clinical signs of HFrEF, diagnosing patients, referring them or prescribing the components of quadruple therapy, and offering medical advice and follow-up. We highlight the role of SGLT2is in HF management and their effectiveness in reducing rates of hospitalization for HF as well as cardiovascular deaths, with satisfactory safety profile.
文摘Background: Nutritional knowledge and practise is an important measure to improve dietary habits and food choices. The daily food should contain balanced nutrition as needed to support optimal growth, avoid deficiency diseases and prevent the diseases which might interfere with the children health. Materials & Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional non-interventional hospital-based study was carried out among 122 mothers and 122 children by using a non-probability convenience sampling technique in the period of 15 March to 15 April 2023, and using interviews with structural questionnaires, the data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results: We found that most of the children had moderate health, while most of the mothers had moderate nutritional knowledge and practise towards their children, also we found that the relationship between mothers’ knowledge and practise and child health was significant (P Conclusion: Mothers’ knowledge and practise among children was moderate and children had moderate health. Wrong beliefs and cultural taboos play major roles in decreasing knowledge and practise.
文摘Background:No standard monsplasty technique has existed until now.Although various monsplasty methods have been described,they exhibit high complication rates with sparse postoperative data.Studies that used pubic suspension techniques did not describe exact anatomical landmarks for the mons pexy.This study aimed to improve the aesthetic and functional appearance of the pubic region with long-term results for all grades of pubic ptosis or bulging with abdominoplasty and provide exact anatomical points to anchor the mons to the rectus sheath.Methods:This non-randomized prospective clinical trial included 30 patients with various degrees of abdominal wall laxity between December 2017 and September 2019.The surgical procedure was performed for female patients with pendulous abdomen,pubic ptosis or bulging,body mass index≤35 kg/m^(2),and age 18–60 years.All patients were followed for up to one year;patient satisfaction was assessed before and after surgery regarding aesthetic results and impact on outfits,hygiene,and sexual activity.Results:The marginal homogeneity test revealed a statistically significant patient satisfaction rate regarding outfits,sexual function,hygiene,and aesthetics.Regarding postoperative complications,seroma(one case)was managed by aspiration,and one case of wound dehiscence was managed conservatively with dressings.Conclusion:This study recommends a quick and reproducible monsplasty technique with a low complication rate,a technique that helps determine specific anatomical landmarks for anchoring the mons to the rectus sheath.Combining this technique with abdominal contouring is advisable for optimal aesthetic results and maintained lymphatic drainage in the pubic region.
文摘Objective:The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of intravesical instillation of platelet-rich plasma(PRP)to treat interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome(IC/BPS).Materials and methods:Twenty PRP samples were tested in vitro for stability after exposure to urine samples with different pH.A pilot study involving 21 female patients with IC/BPS was conducted,and 6 weekly doses of autologous PRP(50 mL)were administered.Patients were followed up at the 2nd,4th,8th,and 12th weeks after terminating instillation.The primary endpoint was the visual analog scale(VAS)for pain,and the secondary endpoints included the IC symptom index,IC problem index of the O'Leary-Sant questionnaire and global response assessment,urine culture,and uroflowmetry.Success was defined as a reduction in VAS by 30%or more compared with basal level,and adverse events were recorded.Results:The mean±SD of VAS was significantly reduced compared with basal level(4.4±2.6 vs.8.8±1.1,respectively,p=0.001).Meanwhile,80%of cases were considered successful,with a 50.1%reduction in the mean score compared with the basal level.The mean±SD of IC symptom index and IC problem index significantly improved compared with the basal level.Global response assessment was markedly,moderately,and slightly improved in 2(10%),10(50%),and 5(25%)patients,respectively,and showed no change in 3(15%).Three patients had positive urine cultures at follow-up,but 1 withdrew after 2 sessions because of a lack of efficacy.Conclusions:Repeated intravesical instillation of PRP could be considered an effective and safe approach for treating IC/BPS.
基金supported by the Scientific Project of Zigong Fourth People’s Hospital(202102)the Open Foundation of Artificial Intelligence Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province(2020RYY03)the Health and Family Planning Commission of Sichuan Province(17PJ136).
文摘Background:No convenient,inexpensive,and non-invasive screening tools exist to identify pulmonary hypertension(PH)-left heart disease(LHD)patients during the early stages of the disease course.This study investigated whether different methods of lung ultrasound(LUS)could be used for the initial investigation of PH-LHD.Methods:This was a single-center prospective observational study which was performed in the Zigong Fourth People’s Hospital.We consecutively enrolled patients with heart failure(HF)admitted to the emergency intensive care unit from January 2018 to May 2020.Transthoracic echocardiography and LUS were performed within 24 h before discharge.We used the Spearman coefficient for correlation analysis between ultrasound scores and pulmonary arterial systolic pressure(PASP).Bland-Altman plots were generated to inspect possible bias,and receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curves were calculated to assess the relationship between ultrasound scores and an intermediate and high echocardiographic probability of PH-LHD.Results:Seventy-one patients were enrolled in this study,with an overall median age of 79(interquartile range:71.5–84.0)years.Among the 71 patients,36(50.7%)cases were male,and 26(36.6%)had an intermediate and high echocardiographic probability of PH.All four LUS scores in patients with an intermediate and high probability of PH were significantly higher than in patients with a low probability of PH(P<0.05).The correlation coefficient(r)between different LUS scoring methods and PASP was moderate for the 6-zone(r=0.455,P<0.001),8-zone(r=0.385,P=0.001),12-zone(r=0.587,P<0.001),and 28-zone(r=0.535,P<0.001)methods.In Bland-Altman plots,each of the four LUS scoring methods had a good agreement with PASP(P<0.001).The 8-zone and 12-zone methods showed moderately accurate discriminative values in differentiating patients with an intermediate and high echocardiographic probability of PH(P<0.05).
文摘In this editorial,we comment on the hard and soft tissue applications of different ceramic-based scaffolds prepared by different mechanisms such as 3D printing,sol-gel,and electrospinning.The new concept of regenerative medicine relies on biomaterials that can trigger in situ tissue regeneration and stem cell recruitment at the defect site.A large percentage of these biomaterials is ceramic-based as they provide the essential requirements of biomaterial principles such as tailored multisize porosity,antibacterial properties,and angiogenic properties.All these previously mentioned properties put bioceramics on top of the hierarchy of biomaterials utilized to stimulate tissue regeneration in soft and hard tissue wounds.Multiple clinical applications registered the use of these materials in triggering soft tissue regeneration in healthy and diabetic patients such as bioactive glass nanofibers.The results were promising and opened new frontiers for utilizing these materials on a larger scale.The same results were mentioned when using different forms and formulas of bioceramics in hard defect regeneration.Some bioceramics were used in combination with other polymers and biological scaffolds to improve their regenerative and mechanical properties.All this progress will enable a larger scale of patients to receive such services with ease and decrease the financial burden on the government.
基金supported by funding from the Canada Research Chairs Program and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.The authors wish to thank Ekso Bionics Holdings Inc.for providing the Ekso EVO passive shoulder exoskeleton.
文摘A machine learning model for regression of interrupted Surface Electromyography(sEMG)signals to future control-oriented signals(e.g.,robot’s joint angle and assistive torque)of an active biomechatronic device for high-level myoelectric-based hierarchical control is proposed.A Recurrent Neural Network(RNN)was trained using output data,initially obtained from offline optimization of the biomechatronic(human–robot)device and shifted by the prediction horizon.The input of the RNN consisted of interrupted sEMG signals(to mimic signal disconnections)and previous kinematic signals of the assistive system.The RNN with a 0.1-s prediction horizon could predict the control-oriented joint angle and assistive torque with 92%and 86.5%regression accuracy,respectively,for the test dataset.This proposed approach permits a fast,predictive,and direct estimation of control-oriented signals instead of an iterative process that optimizes assistive torque in the inverse dynamic simulation of a multibody human–robot system.Training with these interrupted input signals significantly improves the regression accuracy in the case of sEMG signal disconnection.This Robust Predictive Control-oriented Machine Learning(Robust-MuscleNET)model can support volitional high-level myoelectric-based control of biomechatronic devices,such as exoskeletons,prostheses,and assistive/resistive robots.Future work should study the application to prosthesis control as well as the repeatability of the high-level controller with electrode shift.The low-level hierarchical controller that manages the human–robot interaction,the assistance/resistance strategy,and the actuator coordination should also be studied.
基金Ain Shams University, Faculty of Agriculture for funding of this research work
文摘Strains of live Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast have exhibited probiotic effects in ruminants. This study investigated the effects of the dietary yeast supplement, S. cerevisiae(Yea-Sacc^(1026)), on primiparous(PP)and multiparous(MP) Egyptian buffaloes in early to mid-lactation. Lactating buffaloes were fed either a basal total mixed ration(TMR, control; 4 PP and 8 MP) or the basal TMR plus 10 g Yea-Sacc^(1026) per buffalo cow per day(yeast; 4 PP and 8 MP). The feeds were given from 15 days prepartum to 180 days postpartum. Feed intake, body weight, and milk yields(MY) were recorded, and milk and blood samples were collected for analyses. Feces were collected from days 45 to 47 during early lactation and from days 90 to92 during mid-lactation to determine apparent digestibility of dry matter(DM), organic matter(OM),crude protein(CP) and crude fiber(CF). Energy corrected milk yield(ECM), feed conversion, and energy and nitrogen conversion efficiency were calculated. Yeast treated MP buffaloes consumed more DM(P < 0.041) and CP than the untreated control group. Apparent digestibility of DM and OM were significantly greater at mid-lactation for treated versus control group(P = 0.001). Crude fiber digestibility was greater in MP than in PP buffaloes(P = 0.049), and yeast supplemented MP cows had a greater CF digestibility than control MP buffaloes at mid-lactation(P = 0.010). Total blood lipids decreased after yeast supplementation(P= 0.029). Milk yields, ECM, fat and protein yields increased for yeast treated MP buffaloes(P < 0.039). The study concluded that the response to yeast supplementation in buffalo cows is parity dependent. Multiparous buffaloes respond to yeast supplementation with an increased DM intake and CF digestibility without significant weight gains, allowing a greater ECM yield with less fat mobilization. Supplementing buffaloes with yeast culture may increase milk production in early lactation and results in a more persistent milk production during mid-lactation. Feed conversion and energy and nitr
文摘Objective: To analyze the phytochemical constituents, and to explore potential protective effect of the methanol extract of Moringa oleifera(M. oleifera) seeds and Egyptian propolis, each alone or concurrently administered on acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats. Methods: Eight groups of 5 rats each were used: normal control group with distilled water, model group, two groups with M. oleifera seeds(100 and 200 mg/kg), two groups with propolis(50 and 100 mg/kg), one group with concurrent administration of both, and one group with prednisolone(reference drug). Macro-and microscopic picture, ulcer index and lesion scores, oxidative markers, inflammatory mediators, in vitro activity of the inflammatory enzymes and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radicals scavenging activity were evaluated. The phytochemical constituents of both extracts were explored by GC-MS analysis. Results: Both treatments modulated the macro-and microscopic picture, decreased the ulcerative index, lesion score, oxidative markers and inflammatory mediators, and inhibited the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. Propolis appeared to be powerful free radicals scavenger. A powerful synergistic effect of both treatments in modulating the course of the disease was reported. GCMS analysis of methanol extract of M. oleifera seeds and propolis revealed the presence of 50 and 34 compounds, respectively. Conclusions: M. oleifera seeds and propolis methanol extracts have modulated the course of acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis. Moreover, both treatments induce a good synergistic effect against the disease. Isolation of the active constituents is recommended.
文摘Phosphogypsum(PG), the main by-product of phosphoric acid production industries, is considered one of the most important secondary sources of rare earth elements(REEs). The current study focuses on the recovery of REEs content and the residual phosphate content existing in the PG with preserving on the CaSO_(4)skeleton to be used in other various applications. These attainments are carried out using citric acid leaching process via soaking technique. Several dissolution parameters for REEs using citric acid were studied, including soaking time, soaking temperature, citric acid concentration, solid-to-liquid ratio, and recycling of the citrate leaching solutions in the further REEs dissolution experiments. The best-operating conditions were 14 d of soaking time, 7.5% citric acid concentration, and the solid-toliquid ratio of 1/5 at ambient temperature. About 79.57% dissolution efficiency of REEs was achieved using the optimal conditions. Applying four soaking stages by mixing different fresh PG samples with the same citrate solution sequentially, cumulative dissolution efficiency for REEs was found to be 64.7% under optimal soaking conditions. REEs were recovered using Dowex 50X8 resin from citrate solutions with 96% extraction efficiency. Dissolution kinetics proved the pseudo-first-order nature, reversible reactions, and two activation energies for all REEs.
文摘Anal cancers(AC)are relatively rare tumors.Their incidence is increasing,particularly among men who have sex with other men due to widespread infection by human papilloma virus.The majority of anal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas,and they are treated according to stage.In local and locally advanced AC,concomitant chemoradiation therapy based on mitomycin C and 5-Fluorouracil(5-FU)is the current best treatment,while metastatic AC,chemotherapy with 5-FU and cisplatin remains the gold standard.There are no indications for induction or maintenance therapies in locally advanced tumors.Many novel strategies,such as targeted therapies,vaccination,immunotherapy and photodynamic therapy are in clinical trials for the treatment of AC,with promising results in some indications.
