Search Results (7,726)

Earth–Air Heat Exchangers (EAHEs) exploit stable subsurface temperatures to pre-condition supply air. To address limitations of conventional systems in hot–arid climates, this study investigates the performance of a hybrid EAHE prototype combining a serpentine subsurface pipe with a buried water tank. Installed in a residential building in Lichana, Biskra (Algeria), the system was designed to enhance land compactness, thermal stability, and soil–water heat harvesting. Experimental monitoring was conducted across 13 intervals strategically spanning seasonal transitions and extremes and was complemented by calibrated numerical simulations. From over 30,000 data points, outlet trajectories, thermal efficiency, Coefficient of Performance (COP), and energy savings were assessed against a straight-pipe baseline. Results showed that the hybrid EAHE delivered smoother outlet profiles under moderate gradients while the baseline achieved larger instantaneous ΔT. Thermal efficiencies exceeded 90% during high-gradient episodes and averaged above 70% annually. COP values scaled with the inlet–soil gradient, ranging from 1.5 to 4.0. Cumulative recovered energy reached 80.6 kWh (3.92 kWh/day), while the heat pump electricity referred to a temperature-dependent ASHP totaled 34.59 kWh (1.40 kWh/day). Accounting for the EAHE fan yields a net saving of 25.46 kWh across the campaign, only one interval (5) was net-negative, underscoring the value of bypass/fan shut-off under weak gradients. Overall, the hybrid EAHE emerges as a footprint-efficient option for arid housing, provided operation is dynamically controlled. Future work will focus on controlling logic and soil–moisture interactions to maximize net performance. Full article

Background: Disability-linked neurodegeneration involves cholinergic dysfunction, amyloidogenesis, glutamatergic excitotoxicity, and dopaminergic imbalance, highlighting the need for multi-target modulation. Catharanthus roseus contains a diverse array of metabolites with potential polypharmacological properties. Methods: We curated 318 Catharanthus roseus metabolites and performed structure-based virtual screening against five CNS targets, namely BACE1, AChE, MAO-B, NMDAR, and D1, using target-specific positive controls. Cross-target intersection ranking nominated three hits. We assessed dynamic stability by 200 ns all-atom molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) and MM/PBSA; ADMET-AI profiled CNS-relevant properties. Results: The three metabolites (PubChem CIDs 485711, 56964592, and 162963996) repeatedly ranked among top binders across targets. All five protein–ligand complexes reached stable MD plateaus (RMSD < ~0.30 nm) with sustained key interactions; BACE1 and AChE showed the highest contact persistence and most favorable ΔG_total/ligand-efficiency. Conclusions: Convergent docking, MDS, and MM/PBSA support these metabolites as tractable multi-target leads, with BACE1/AChE prioritized for enzyme-level validation and the remaining targets for follow-up studies. Full article

Shanxi Province hosts a rich diversity of traditional villages. From a river basin perspective, adherence to natural laws and the removal of administrative barriers are essential for reshaping the conservation paradigm. Using spatial analysis and multiscale geographically weighted regression, this study revealed the spatial patterns of 619 traditional villages and how environmental, socioeconomic, and historical–cultural factors shape the spatial heterogeneity. Villages clustered within the Yellow River Basin and the Haihe River Basin, forming an agglomeration belt and three high-density cores. Distance to rivers was a key factor in village siting, with 70.8% located within 3 km of the nearest river. Village density exhibited a U-shaped relationship with distance to roads, and an inverted U-shaped relationship with distance to county-level administrative centers. The interaction between intangible cultural heritage density and average annual precipitation showed the strongest explanatory power, with positive local regression coefficients exceeding 95% and 72%, respectively. Traditional villages constitute an evolving human–environment system in which water resources underpin spatial patterns and intangible cultural heritage sustains endogenous cultural vitality. These findings provide a theoretical framework for graded conservation and resource coordination at the river basin scale. Full article

The drive to utilize ammonia as a carbon-free hydrogen source necessitates the development of effective, non-precious metal catalysts for ammonia decomposition. We successfully synthesized a series of Ce-based perovskite oxides (CeXO₃; X = Co, Ni, Fe) via combustion method using citric acid. These catalyst precursors were tested for NH₃ decomposition to study the effect of the perovskite structure on catalytic activity. The results were directly compared to corresponding impregnated catalysts, X/CeO₂, which had similar metal concentrations. A remarkable enhancement in catalytic performance was observed with the perovskite catalysts, particularly at lower temperatures, relative to their impregnated counterparts. The exception was the CeFeO₃ catalyst, which exhibited lower activity, likely due to the formation of metal nitrides. Both CeNiO₃ and CeCoO₃ showed good NH₃ decomposition activity, but CeNiO₃ emerged as the most active catalyst at lower temperatures. This superior performance attributed to the presence of oxygen vacancies—confirmed by Raman and XPS analyses—and enhanced metal reducibility at lower temperatures, both of which accelerate NH₃ decomposition. Furthermore, CeNiO₃ also displayed a high surface metal concentration. These Ce-based perovskite materials are cost-effective, easily synthesized, and highly stable; hence, they are attractive candidates for large-scale hydrogen production. Full article

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder of the aging brain, is associated with behavioral and cognitive issues and poses a huge burden on the global health care system. One of the key features of AD is the deposition of abnormal proteins called amyloid-beta (Aβ) in the brain, causing inflammatory changes, oxidative stress, and neuronal loss. Recent advancements in the anti-Aβ therapies have considerably improved the management of AD, resulting in better clinical outcomes for patients and caregivers. This review offers an inclusive update on current drug discovery efforts, innovative approaches, and ongoing clinical trials targeting Aβ, a key player in AD pathogenesis. We have evaluated the most recent developments in monoclonal antibodies, including aducanumab (discontinued November 2024), lecanemab, and donanemab, emerging therapeutic options, as well as emerging strategies such as tau-targeting therapies, gene therapy, and small molecule inhibitors. Moreover, we highlighted the challenges and opportunities in AD research, including the need for early diagnosis, personalized medicine, and combination therapies. Our review will offer a concise and informative overview of the current landscape and future directions in anti-Aβ therapeutics for AD, shedding light on potential treatments and prospects for improving patient outcomes. Full article

Background: The optimal number of electrodiagnostic tests required to confirm carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) has not been systematically evaluated. While single comparative latency study (COLS) is commonly used, it remains unclear whether diagnostic accuracy improves when concordance between multiple COLSs is required. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the electrodiagnostic data of patients referred to our center with upper limb symptoms. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed for individual COLSs—median–ulnar mixed palmar latency difference (palmdiff), median–ulnar ring finger latency difference (ringdiff), and median–radial thumb latency difference (thumbdiff)—and for concordance between two COLSs. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated within diabetes mellitus (DM) and non-DM groups. Results: We included 538 patients, of whom 305 had CTS and 109 had DM. Among patients without DM, the PPV ranged from 87.6% to 92.6% for single COLS and 94.1% to 94.8% for concordance between two abnormal COLSs. When only patients with symptom durations of >6 months were considered, the PPV of concordance between two abnormal COLSs was consistently 100%. Among patients with DM who were younger than 60 years, the PPV for a single COLS was >89%, and that for concordance between two abnormal COLSs was >94%, whereas in those aged ≥60 years, PPVs dropped to 71%–83% for both strategies, and specificity remained high (>90%) only for concordance between two abnormal COLSs. Conclusions: Concordance between two abnormal COLSs enhances diagnostic precision for CTS, particularly in patients without DM and in patients with DM under 60 years of age. In patients with DM aged ≥60 years, the diagnostic accuracy of COLSs was low. Full article

Background/Objectives: Odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) is a benign yet locally aggressive intraosseous lesion with a high recurrence rate, posing significant challenges for clinical management. This present case report describes a combined surgical management approach for an OKC, involving enucleation with piezotome-assisted peripheral ostectomy, followed by adjunctive application of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to the osseous defect. Methods: A 54-year-old patient presented with a mandibular unilocular radiolucency that was diagnosed histopathologically as an OKC. The lesion was managed using a combined surgical approach involving enucleation and peripheral ostectomy with a piezotome. To optimize healing, PRF was applied to the bone defect. Results: At 18- and 36-month follow-up, the patient demonstrated complete postoperative bone remodeling of the cystic bone defect, with no evidence of recurrence. Conclusions: This case highlights the low morbidity associated with enucleation and piezotome-assisted peripheral ostectomy, which may be preferable to other aggressive OKC treatment modalities in selected cases. Additionally, PRF use was associated with favorable postoperative healing, with minimal pain, swelling, and inflammation. Radiographic stability at 36 months supports the feasibility of this approach; however, larger studies are needed to compare recurrence risk with other interventions. Full article

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) affects more than 100,000 people in the United States and 8 million people worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality and musculoskeletal (MSK) complications that contribute to functional disability. However, MRI-based characterization of musculoskeletal manifestations remains limited in high-prevalence regions, including the Middle East. This study aimed to review MRI findings of MSK manifestations in SCD patients and assess associations with clinical characteristics. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 96 patients with SCD who underwent MSK MRI between 2012 and 2022 at King Abdulaziz University Hospital. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and imaging findings were reviewed. The prevalence and distribution of MSK complications were analyzed across age, gender, and BMI categories. Results: Of the 96 patients (47% males; 53% females; mean age 28.9 years), the hip was the most frequently scanned region (46%), followed by the leg, femur, shoulder, and knee. Bone infarction was the most common complication, observed in 57 patients (59.3%), and was more prevalent among older adults. Osteomyelitis was identified in 16 patients (16.7%), with higher rates in children and underweight individuals. Decreased bone marrow signal intensity was seen in 11 patients (11.4%), particularly in older age groups. Other findings and unremarkable scans each accounted for 6 cases (6.3%). Gender analysis showed broadly similar patterns, although decreased marrow signal intensity was more common in females. Conclusions: MRI is an effective imaging modality for detecting and differentiating MSK complications in SCD. Routine use of MRI in follow-up care is recommended to facilitate early diagnosis, guide management, and prevent long-term disability. Larger prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and establish MRI as a routine diagnostic tool for SCD. Full article

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common infections among kidney transplant recipients, with prevalence rates ranging from 12% to 75% in studies from North America and Australia and from 4.5% to 85% in the Middle East. These infections can significantly impact graft survival and patient quality of life, increasing the risk of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality. Escherichia coli is the leading cause of UTIs in transplant patients, but multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens are a growing concern, especially in Saudi Arabia. Several factors, including advanced age, female gender, and use of urinary catheters, contribute to post-transplant UTIs. This study focuses on the Saudi population, aiming to assess the prevalence, risk factors, and treatment strategies for recurrent and multidrug-resistant UTIs in kidney transplant recipients. Methods: This retrospective cohort study reviewed the medical records of kidney transplant patients at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Jeddah, in addition to data from King Fahad Hospital, Madinah, Saudi Arabia, between March and May 2022. Adult patients (≥18 years) who developed recurrent UTIs within two years post-transplant were included, while those with one or no UTI episode or incomplete records were excluded. Results: Seventy-five of 491 screened patients (15.3%) experienced recurrent UTIs, contributing to a total of 219 episodes. Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most frequent pathogen, isolated in 94 episodes (42.9%). Key risk factors for recurrence included complicated UTIs (OR = 4.60, p = 0.005), multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) (OR = 3.14, p = 0.021), and ureteric stents (OR = 4.07, p = 0.042). Carbapenems were primarily used for complicated UTIs, while cephalosporins and penicillins were used for uncomplicated infections. A significant post-UTI rise in serum creatinine was observed (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Recurrent UTIs predominantly caused by K. pneumoniae are common in kidney transplant recipients, particularly in patients over 45, with multidrug-resistant organisms, or with ureteric stents. While a direct causal link to graft loss was not established, these infections can lead to increased creatinine levels, hospitalizations, and healthcare costs and increased carbapenem use. These findings highlight the critical need for institution-specific antimicrobial stewardship programs focused on infection prevention and optimized antibiotic use to improve outcomes in this vulnerable population. Full article

This study explores sustainable urbanism in the three largest Saudi Arabian cities—Riyadh, Jeddah, and NEOM—in the context of Vision 2030. Qualitative methodology was used, which incorporated environmental, social, economic, governance, and mobility aspects. The analysis of ten semi-structured interviews with planners, engineers, and policy officials was based on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), Sustainable Urbanism, and Participatory Governance models. The results indicate that Riyadh presents structural congruence and consistency of policies, Jeddah is characterized by disjointed governance and poor coordination, and NEOM is characterized by futuristic aspirations with unpredictable social inclusiveness. The paper highlights that more powerful integration of governance, participatory planning, and realistic implementation is required to create a balance between technological innovations and equity in society. It adds to the current knowledge of how the global sustainability models can be localized in the fast-changing cities of the Gulf. Full article

The convergence of nanotechnology and bioaerogels has paved the way for the development of multimodal nanostructured bioaerogels with remarkable potential in smart drug delivery systems. These advanced biomaterials integrate multiple functionalities, including sensing, targeting, and therapeutic actions, to enhance drug efficacy, minimize systemic side effects, and enable real-time monitoring of therapeutic responses. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the structural design, physicochemical properties, and fabrication strategies of multimodal bioaerogels. It further explores their role in responsive drug delivery, emphasizing stimuli-responsive mechanisms such as pH, temperature, and enzymatic triggers. The incorporation of nanomaterials, including metallic nanoparticles, carbon-based nanostructures, and polymeric nanocarriers, has endowed bioaerogels with tunable porosity, controlled drug release, and bioactive functionalities. Additionally, their application in precision medicine, particularly for cancer therapy, antimicrobial treatments, and tissue engineering, is critically examined. Challenges related to scalability, biocompatibility, and regulatory compliance are also discussed, alongside future perspectives on advancing these bioaerogels toward clinical translation. By integrating interdisciplinary insights, this review underscores the transformative potential of multimodal nanostructured bioaerogels in the next generation of intelligent drug delivery systems. Full article

The three-leg 50-Years Roundabout at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) is known for its vibrance and important location as it is located at the center of several major buildings and hospitals. In recent years, the roundabout is witnessing a huge demand that influences the university road networks’ level of service, “LOS”, which in return, has negative impacts on students and faculties in terms of delay and travel time. Several treatments can be implemented along the roundabout. One of those treatments is applying restrictions during morning peak hours such as blocking and restricting specific lanes. This treatment has the advantage of reducing conflict points that cause sudden and frequent stops at the roundabout; as a result, delay and congestion occur. By reducing conflict points, traffic flow can be improved, in addition to enhancing safety and promoting sustainability. This paper examines the base condition of the 50-Years Roundabout in terms of traffic flow, LOS, delay, capacity, and toxic emissions, and proposes traffic system management (TSM) strategies through applying restricted and designated lanes to improve traffic condition. The study employs PTV Vissim, SIDRA Intersection, and Surrogate Safety Assessment Model “SSAM” to examine the base and proposed conditions. The results show a significant improvement through the reduction in conflict points, so that reflects the positive impacts on sustainability, congestion, delay, travel time, LOS, and overall toxic emissions. Full article

Eco-friendly silver nanoparticle systems are highly effective due to their large surface area and strong adsorption capacity. In this study, a novel silver (diethyldithiocarbamate)-decorated reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite (Ag(DDTC)@rGO) was synthesized via a simple green method, yielding a stable and monodispersed material. SEM and HRTEM analyses revealed uniform anchoring of the Ag(DDTC) complex on rGO, producing a coherent nanocomposite with strong physicochemical coupling. The Ag(DDTC)@rGO nanocomposite exhibited a high Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area (289 m² g⁻¹) with an average pore diameter of 45 nm, confirming the mesoporous nature of the composite. FTIR spectra showed characteristic bands of rGO and DDTC ligands, with new peaks at 620–640 cm⁻¹ confirming the successful anchoring of silver–diethyldithiocarbamate species onto rGO via Ag–S and Ag–O bond formation. Raman spectroscopy further confirmed the multilayered rGO structure after Ag(DDTC) incorporation. X-ray diffraction (XRD) identified a broad hybrid amorphous–crystalline pattern, favorable for catalytic and sensing functions. The superior malachite green adsorption capacity of Ag(DDTC)@rGO was attributed to synergistic electrostatic, π–π stacking, hydrogen bonding, and silver-mediated interactions. Furthermore, antibacterial assays demonstrated significant inhibition of P. aeruginosa ATCC 9027 and S. enterica ATCC 14028, further enhanced by mild heat activation (40–50 °C) that significantly improved the surface activation of silver nanoparticles. The multifunctional Ag(DDTC)@rGO nanocomposite exhibits strong adsorption and antibacterial properties, highlighting its potential for sustainable wastewater treatment and environmental remediation applications. Full article

Background: Social media is increasingly shaping patient decision-making about the choice of healthcare providers. However, its role in the Saudi context remains underexplored. This study aimed to examine the association between social media use and patient decision-making regarding the choice of healthcare providers in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This cross-sectional study used a validated online questionnaire. The study was conducted between December 2023 and May 2024 to assess demographics, social media usage, and decision-making factors. Results: 1242 participants completed the survey; most participants (96.2%) had personal social media accounts. Instagram (41.3%) and X (37.6%) were the preferred platforms to look up or follow doctors. The most influential factors in choosing a healthcare provider included physician qualifications, online reviews, and patient testimonials. While 81.3% believed medical practices should maintain a social media presence, traditional factors remained more decisive than promotional content. Younger participants, females, and those in the health field were significantly more likely to follow doctors online (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Social media plays a notable role in patient decision-making about healthcare provider selection in Saudi Arabia, particularly among younger individuals and those working in the health sector. Nevertheless, clinical qualifications and trust indicators remain paramount. These findings support the need for healthcare professionals to maintain a credible, ethical, and informative digital presence to enhance patient engagement and informed decision-making. Full article

This study explores the relationship between journalistic background, content creation experience, and self-reported information literacy among global content creators. Based on an online survey of 500 content creators in eight languages around the world, the study explains whether journalistic training or experience in content creation influences perceived information literacy, while controlling for education and economic development of the country. Results indicate that both having a journalistic background and content creation experience significantly predict perceived information literacy, with education of creators as a significant covariate. Economic development (Global South vs. Global North) is not a significant factor. Grounded in Flavell’s metacognitive theory, the findings suggest that content creators gain confidence in evaluating information through having a journalistic background and content creator experience, even if their actual ability remains untested. The implications of perceived information literacy compared to actual practice in information checking and information literacy training based on metacognition are discussed. Full article