IBM (Egypt)

Despite growing global initiatives on sustainable plastic management, less than 10% of plastic waste is effectively recycled, resulting in widespread environmental dispersion and pollution. This study examines the relative influence of topographic, hydrologic, and urban factors on the proliferation of plastic hotspots (macroplastics) in the urbanized Mfoundi subbasin of Yaoundé, Cameroon. To achieve this, we employed Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Memetic Programming (MP) algorithms to classify both anthropogenic and naturally occurring plastic hotspots based on twelve spatially explicit parameters. This was then followed by assessing model performance through five key metrics: accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). Results reveal that topographic and hydrologic factors exert a stronger influence on hotspot formation than urban variables. Among the urban features, population density, road proximity, and waste management infrastructure were more strongly associated with anthropogenic hotspots, while land use exhibited limited influence overall. When multiple parameters were combined, model performance metrics were observed to improve significantly (≥75% accuracy). The MP algorithm demonstrated more robust generalization across test datasets, whereas XGBoost exhibited signs of overfitting. These findings underscore the value of spatially explicit machine learning models for guiding targeted interventions in plastic pollution mitigation.

This paper presents a novel approach to address the challenge of self-localization of flying vehicles. It utilizes visual cues provided by the map imagery fed to a map-recognition convolution neural-network (CNN). This approach is invaluable during the navigation of flying vehicles in scenarios where the Global Positioning System (GPS) signal is unavailable. The proposed approach leverages the power of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to imitate the visual perception and navigation abilities of homing pigeons, enabling the vehicle to navigate using solely real- time visual data with limited or no GPS information. Two pre-trained CNN’s (SqueezeNet and GoogLeNet) are selected and re-trained with Google Maps imagery, enabling them to efficiently learn and generalize from the diverse visual attributes present in the map. Extensive experimentation and evaluation have demonstrated the efficacy and resilience of the vision-based GPS-free navigation system. The resulting system predicts position accurately achieving an accuracy of 89.9% and 96.4% for SqueezeNet and GoogLeNet, respectively, for images with a resolution of (one km x one km) and reaching an accuracy of 94.7 for GoogLeNet for images with a resolution of (374 m x 374 m). Results underscore the potential of this approach for overcoming the challenge of GPS unavailability in aerial navigation.

Trimetallic nanoparticles (TMNPs) have emerged as a pivotal area of research due to their unique properties and diverse applications across medicine, agriculture, and environmental sciences. This review provides several novel contributions that distinguish it from existing literature on trimetallic nanoparticles (TMNPs). Firstly, it offers a focused exploration of TMNPs, specifically addressing their unique properties and applications, which have been less examined compared to other multimetallic nanoparticles. This targeted analysis fills a significant gap in current research. Secondly, the review emphasizes innovative biosynthesis methods utilizing microorganisms and plant extracts, positioning these green synthesis approaches as environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional chemical methods. This focus aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable practices in nanotechnology. Furthermore, the review integrates discussions on both medical and agricultural applications of TMNPs, highlighting their multifunctional potential across diverse fields. This comprehensive perspective enhances our understanding of how TMNPs can address various challenges. Additionally, the review explores the synergistic effects among the different metals in TMNPs, providing insights into how these interactions can be harnessed to optimize their properties for specific applications. Such discussions are often overlooked in existing studies. Moreover, this review identifies critical research gaps and challenges within the field, outlining future directions that encourage further investigation and innovation in TMNP development. By doing so, it proactively contributes to advancing the field. Finally, the review advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration among material scientists, biologists, and environmental scientists, emphasizing the importance of diverse expertise in enhancing the research and application of TMNPs.

To compare changes of vertical palpebral fissure height after bilateral lateral rectus (BLR) recessions versus unilateral lateral rectus (LR) recession and medial rectus (MR) muscle scleral plication, for treatment of intermittent exotropia. This prospective, comparative, randomized study included 40 patients with intermittent exotropia who were divided into two groups: 20 patients who underwent BLR recessions (BLR recession group) and 20 patients who underwent unilateral LR recession and MR muscle scleral plication (recession-plication group). Eyelid evaluation included measurement of margin reflex distance 1 (MRD1) and margin reflex distance 2 (MRD2) at 1 week, 6 weeks, and 3 months postoperatively. Angle of deviation and any incomitance were also recorded at each visit. There was no significant statistical difference in eyelid measurements after the surgery between both groups (P = 1.00). There was no significant statistical difference in ocular alignment after the surgery between both groups (P = 1.00). Also, there was no significant statistical difference in lateral incomitance after the surgery between both groups (P = 1.00). Both the unilateral recession and plication of horizontal rectus muscles technique and bilateral recession provide comparable surgical results for correction of exotropia without significant palpebral fissures changes or lateral incomitance. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2025;62(3):182-189.].

The approval of leukotriene antagonists like montelukast and antihistamines such as fexofenadine has opened up new possibilities for the treatment and prevention of asthma and allergic rhinitis. It has been observed that combining both drugs concurrently yields more favorable results compared to using them individually. In light of this, the aim of this study was to develop, evaluate, and perform a pharmacokinetic analysis of a single-dose tablet containing both montelukast sodium (a leukotriene antagonist) and fexofenadine hydrochloride (an antihistamine). The goal was to enhance patient compliance and reduce treatment expenses. Four tablet formulations were prepared, and the impact of different diluents and super disintegrants was examined. Based on in vitro dissolution testing, the formulation containing Avicel PH 101 as the diluent and Crospovidone as the super disintegrant was chosen as the test formulation for pharmacokinetic study. This study involved human volunteers, and the bioequivalence of the test formulation with the commercial products Telfast ® and Singular® was assessed. The results demonstrated that the test formulation exhibited comparable rates and extents of absorption to the reference products. To analyze montelukast sodium and fexofenadine hydrochloride in a singledose film-coated tablet in both dissolution medium and human plasma, new HPLC and LC-MS/MS analytical methods were successfully developed and validated.

Background and aim Treatment of mandibular edentulous ridge with all-on-four treatment concept is a reliable choice. However, the framework material may affect the stresses transmitted to the implant and bone. The aim of the study was to compare stresses transferred to implant–bone interface on using glass fiber-reinforced composite (GFRC), zirconia (Zr), titanium (Ti) and poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) as framework materials. Patients and methods Three-dimensional finite element model of completely edentulous mandible restored with four implants (two axial anterior implants and two posterior implants 30° distally tilted) connected with a framework of different materials (Zr, Ti, GFRC, and PEEK) was constructed. A unilateral axial load of 250 N was applied at the distal end of the cantilever and the resultant von Mises stresses at implant–bone interface were calculated. Results The lowest von Mises stresses at implant/crestal bone area was recorded with Zr framework followed by Ti then GFRC while the highest von Mises stresses were recorded with PEEK framework. Conclusions Within the limitations of this study, it could be concluded that the stiffer framework material transmits more stresses to the implants. The stress distribution of GFRC, as a framework material, is better than PEEK.

This work aims to explore the differences in phytochemical composition and biological properties of five strawberry hybrids (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.), and highlights the non-edible part (byproduct) as a source of self-remedy natural herb along with fruits. HPLC/DAD/HRESIMS technique was used in the dereplication of ten ethanolic extracts of five strawberry cultivars leaves and fruits (Festival, Red Merlin, Suzana, Tamar and Winter Dawn). Total phenolic and total flavonoid contents were established using Folin–Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride colorimetric assays, respectively. Ethanolic extracts of leaves and fruits from Festival and Red Merlin cultivars were selected to investigate their anti-hyperglycemic activity using streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Oxidative stress markers, lipid profile and kidney and liver function tests were assessed. The results revealed different chemical profiles of ten samples with the identification of 37 metabolites, represented mainly as flavonoids and phenolic acid derivatives. Phytochemical investigation resulted in the isolation of seven known phenolic compounds; quercetin, kaempferol, p-coumaric acid, p-tyrosol, methyl gallate, trans-tiliroside and eutigoside A. Suzana cultivar was the richest cultivar with flavonoids and total phenolics except for the total flavonoid content in leaves referred to Festival cultivar. Ethanolic extract of leaves, especially Festival cultivar was the most bioactive one. The results established the role of strawberry leaves along with fruits as an antioxidant and hypoglycemic natural remedy.

A cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) material was converted into its dialdehyde before being decorated with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) through an aminothiophenol linker.

Electrochemical characterization of anodically grown thin ZnO films on pure zinc metal was studied in pH 9.2 bicarbonate/carbonate buffer solution. The different undoped passive films were formed potentiostatically in pH 9.2 borate buffer solution at processing anodic voltage (Va) of −1.04, −1.02, −1.0 and −0.99 V (vs. Ag/AgCl). While, various doped ZnO films were fabricated by anodizing the metal at a fixed potential of −1.00 V in the same borate buffer solution containing different amounts of LiCl or InCl3. The electrochemical and semiconducting properties of all formed films were investigated using chronoamperometric measurements, EIS and Mott–Schottky analysis supported by scanning electron microscopy. The impedance results showed a direct correlation between Va and the value of either total resistance (Rf) of undoped passive film or its thickness (δf). It is evident that anodization can afford better conditions for forming thicker compact passive films with more advanced barrier properties. On the other hand, Rf decreases with increasing Li-doping level in the oxide film, and increases in case of In-doping. Interestingly, Rf values of the doped films are always lower when compared to its value for the undoped film grown at −1.00 V, likely due to possible change in the film microstructure upon doping. For both undoped and doped ZnO films, Mott–Schottky plots reveals unintentional n-type conductivity with high electron density. Moreover, with increasing dopant level in ZnO host materials, Mott–Schottky analysis revealed a parallel correlation between charge carrier donor concentration (ND) and the passive film thickness (δf), where the trend of their values are to decrease for Li+-doped and to increase for In3+-doped films.

In this study, a facile and rapid method was developed to synthesize intensely photoluminescent catalytic gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) based on etching small citrate-capped gold nanoparticles using 4,6-dimethyl-2-pyridineselenol-3-caronitrile as a model for organoselenium compounds.