Faculty Of Engineering Research Paper

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Pyrolysis behavior of non-textile components (buttons) and their kinetic analysis using artificial neural network
(Elsevier B.V, 2024-11-26) Samy Yousef; Justas Eimontas; Nerijus Striūgas; Marius Praspaliauskas; Mohammed Ali Abdelnaby
This research aims to study the pyrolysis behavior of old buttons (main non-textile components) and their kinetic behavior to convert them into energy and their original chemical compounds. The pyrolysis experiments were performed using a thermogravimetric analyzer (TG) on buttons have different composition that were defined using FTIR, elemental and proximate analysis. The composition of the valuable chemicals generated from the pyrolysis process were observed TG-FTIR and GC/MS. The kinetic parameters of the decomposition process were also studied using conventional modeling methods and artificial neural network (ANN) as an advanced machine learning tool. The results showed that polyester, nylon and their blends are the most commonly used materials in button manufacturing. The physical analysis showed that the buttons are very rich in volatile matter content (92.08–99.67 wt%) and completely decompose up to 490 °C at 92–100 wt%. Meanwhile, GC/MS showed that the pyrolysis vapors released from polyester buttons were rich in styrene (84.54 %), while caprolactam (40.30 %) was the dominant compound in nylon buttons versus naphthalene, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-phenyl- (67.71 %) was the major compound in the mixture sample. The kinetic analysis showed that the activation energy of the degradation process was in the ranges of 152–202 kJ/mol (polyester), 156–201 kJ/mol (nylon), 402–449 kJ/mol (mixed) and the ANN model was successfully trained and predicted the degradation regions of the buttons. Accordingly, pyrolysis of buttons is highly recommended to valorize buttons and convert them into parent chemical compounds.
A Compact Dual-Band ACS-Fed Frequency Independent Hook Loop Antenna for WLAN Applications
(Taylor and Francis Ltd., 2024-10-02) Arvind Kumar; Praveen V. Naidu; Mohamed El Atrash; Vinay Kumar; Mahmoud A. Abdalla
Presented in this paper is a simple, small-sized, and hook-shaped monopole antenna fed by an Asymmetric Coplanar Strip (ACS) for different dual-band operations. The antenna operates at 3.5 and 5.2 GHz; hence, serving WiMAX and WLAN applications. Dual resonances were attained by integrating a quarter-wavelength strip with a C-shaped half-wavelength loop strip. The proposed antenna footprint is 20 × 7.9 mm2. Based on the achieved outcomes and the antenna compactness, it can be highly nominated for use in 3.5/5 GHz wireless communications applications and wireless gadgets.
MILP-MPC for planned maneuver station-keeping and collision avoidance of GEO satellites using on-off chemical thrusters
(Ain Shams University, 2024-11-02) Mohamed Karim; Mohamed Ibrahim; Hosam Hendy; Mahmoud Ashry; Yehia Z. Elhalwagy
GEO satellites require precise station-keeping and ensuring collision avoidance to maintain their desired orbital positions and ensure uninterrupted communication services. However, maneuvering these satellites poses significant challenges due to various geophysical factors and orbital perturbations. This work proposes a model predictive control for planned maneuver station-keeping and collision avoidance of GEO satellites using south, east, and west maneuvers. These maneuvers have been achieved using on/off chemical thrusters with a short firing time. The station-keeping problem is reformulated as an optimization problem using mixed-integer linear programming. MILP-MPC formulation simultaneously considers multiple objectives and constraints such as fuel consumption, maneuver planning, and collision avoidance for mitigating collision risks. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed MILP-MPC framework compared to the real-time telemetry in achieving accurate station-keeping and collision-free operation while optimizing fuel consumption. The proposed controller increases the satellite lifetime by reducing the thruster firing time.
ENHANCING DIABETES CARE VIA ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
(Little Lion Scientific, 2024-09-30) Turja Bhattacharjee; Mohamed El-Dosuky; Sherif Kamel
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a potent tool in healthcare with the potential to completely change the way diabetes is treated. This study investigates how AI affects patient outcomes and diabetes treatment. Healthcare providers can extract insightful information from patient data using machine learning, data analytics, and AI-driven wearable devices, resulting in individualized treatment programs and better glycemic control. AI chatbots and virtual assistants improve patient support and engagement, encouraging improved treatment adherence. Despite privacy and ethical issues, AI is effective at cutting healthcare expenses and improving the quality of life for patients is obvious. Healthcare providers can use AI to develop a patient-centered strategy and improve diabetes care by working with researchers and politicians. This paper proposes a smart chatbot for enhancing diabetes care through natural language interactions. The chatbot's architecture uses pattern matching and keyword identification techniques to follow a multi-level interaction procedure. The proposed chatbot system simplifies diabetes diagnosis by using natural language interactions, asking questions based on previous responses through a multi-level diagnostic flow. It employs AIML-based memory techniques and pattern matching to identify keywords at each level, ensuring relevance and coherence in conversation. The system follows a search engine-like flow, using methods like the Sequence Words Deleted (SWD) technique and Triangular Number equation to optimize keyword matching, with Vpath values guiding the diagnostic path. The chatbot enhances patient diagnosis by providing structured, personalized guidance through these techniques.
Integrating environmental remediation with biodiesel production from toxic non-edible oil seeds (Croton bonplandianus) using a sustainable phyto-nano catalyst
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-11-05) Ulfat Zia; Mushtaq Ahmad; Abdulaziz Abdullah Alsahli; Ikram Faiz; Shazia Sultana; Angie V. Caicedo-Paz; Cassamo U. Mussagy; Ahmad Mustafa
In the current situation of the environmental uprising toxicology, rising global temperature, and energy-depleting urges to explore and discover more renewable and greener ecological-benefiting energy resources. Biobased renewable fuels generated by using waste products can help in waste management, climate change mitigation, and a low-carbon future. The main objective of this research is to produce environment-friendly and cost-effective biofuel. The potentiality of the novel, toxic, waste, and inedible feedstock Croton bonplandianus was evaluated for biodiesel synthesis through transesterification utilizing a Phyto-nano catalyst of potassium oxide prepared by Croton bonplandianus floral stalk's aqueous extract focusing on waste management. Phyto-nano catalyst characterization was done through innovative tools such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), Zeta Potential (ZP), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transformed Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS). The characterization results revealed that the potassium oxide phyto-nanocatalyst possesses an average nanoparticle size of 44.5 nm. This size is optimal for enhanced catalytic activity, indicating significant potential for efficient catalysis. The highest yield (94 %) of biodiesel was secured at optimized reaction conditions of catalyst quantity (0.50 wt%), reaction time (180 min), methanol: oil ratio (9:1), and reaction thermal point (70 °C). Transformation of triglycerides to methyl esters was confirmed by GC/MS, NMR, and FTIR techniques. A total of 21 methyl esters were observed in Croton bonplandianus biodiesel confirmed via GC/MS results. Evaluation of fuel properties was done and matched with international fuel standards. The conclusive remarks for the conducted research are that Croton bonplandianus has a high potential for biodiesel production by applying Phyto-nanocatalysts of potassium oxide while dealing with hazardous environmental conditions and waste management. Phyto nanocatalyst of potassium oxide can be reused and gives the same yield after several cycles of reusability, this reusability of heterogenous Phyto nanocatalyst can reduce to total cost of biodiesel production and can contribute towards circular economy.
Flexibility as a new approach for user satisfaction in low-income housing projects (Case study Masaken Zenhom – Cairo)
(Taylor and Francis, 2024-09-26) Jasmina Tarek; Ashraf Kamal; Mohamed Mosaad
Low-income housing in Egypt faces challenges due to the small size of the dwellings, as noted in the Middle East Institute website. The limited space poses a significant obstacle to meeting the residents’ needs. To enhance the living conditions and transform cramped dwellings into adaptable and comfortable spaces, it is crucial for new housing projects to prioritize the design phase. This involves incorporating flexibility into the design concept and actively involving residents in the design process. This paper explores the interconnected concept of flexible design, emphasizing user satisfaction as the primary goal. By applying flexibility in design, the issue of limited space can be addressed, resulting in a useful living environment. Utilizing movable partitions and flexible furniture allows for multiple uses of the space, offering residents a range of possibilities. This approach considers the elements of form and design that influence user perception. The research methodology comprises two main phases: a theoretical phase involving a literature review on flexible design concepts, as well as an analytical phase examining a case study by conducting a residents’ questionnaire. The case study focuses on ‘Masaken Zenhom’ in Egypt and the ‘Vroesenlaan housing complex’ in Rotterdam implementing flexibility to ensure resident satisfaction. In contrast, Masaken Zenhom in Egypt represents rigid case, neglecting the variable needs of users and resulting encroachment. The concluded remarks demonstrate that a strong relationship between flexibility concepts integrated in designing phase improves the quality of life and user satisfaction for low-income housing residents.
Harnessing non-edible Quercus incana seeds for sustainable and clean biodiesel production using seed-derived green Al2O3 nanocatalyst
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-10-21) Mumna Munir; Mushtaq Ahmad; Abdulaziz Abdullah Alsahli; Lixin Zhang; Sokhib Islamov; Shazia Sultana; Cassamo Ussemane Mussagy; Ahmad Mustafa; Mamoona Munir; Bisha Chaudhry; Maria Hamayun; Sarwar Khawaja
The challenges of resource scarcity and waste deposition have increased raw material costs and imposed stricter waste management regulations. This study presents the first attempt to utilize high oil-yielding Quercus incana seeds (55.77 wt%, 0.28 % FFA) as a novel waste feedstock for synthesizing a bio-fabricated Al2O3 nanocatalyst and its application in producing high-quality biodiesel. A maximum biodiesel yield of 97.6 % was achieved under optimal conditions, including a 1:9 oil-to-methanol ratio, a 120-minute reaction time at 70 °C, and 0.25 % catalyst concentration. The formation of biodiesel was confirmed through various analytical techniques, such as 1H- and 13C NMR, FTIR, and GC–MS. Additionally, the physicochemical properties of the biodiesel, including sulfur content (0.00047 wt%), TAC (0.20 mg KOH/g), cloud point, and pour point (−11 °C), were analyzed and compared to international biodiesel standards to ensure its stability, sustainability, and eco-friendliness. The production of biodiesel from Quercus incana, a non-edible, uncultivated waste feedstock, supports a greener revolution and a net-zero carbon society. It also promotes smarter waste management practices globally.
Techno-economic insights into one-pot bacterial astaxanthin extraction and sustainable therapeutic product development using natural solvent mixtures
(Elsevier B.V, 2025-01-01) Cassamo U. Mussagy; Nataly F. Ramos; Angie V. Caicedo-Paz; Fabiane O. Farias; Ana Luísa R. Gini; Cau ˆ e B. Scarim; Paulo E. L. L. Filho; Rondinelli D. Herculano; M. Shaaban Sadek; Mushtaq Ahmad; Ahmad Mustafa; Laurent Dufossé
The increasing demand for sustainable and safe products is driving the replacement of synthetic pigments with natural alternatives in the cosmetics industry. Additionally, the use of green solvents, such as natural solvent mixtures (NaSoMix), is essential to minimize the environmental impact of extraction processes. This study explores the innovative application of NaSoMix for extracting astaxanthin-rich extracts (ARE) from the bacterium Paracoccus carotinifaciens, a promising source of natural colorants and antioxidants. By employing menthol-based natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDES) combined with bio-based solvents, viz., ethyl acetate and ethanol, the research achieved remarkable ARE extraction yields of up to 1.3 mg/mL using conventional procedures. Notably, process intensification through microwave-assisted extraction resulted in a 400 % increase in ARE recovery yields compared to traditional methods. The therapeutic soaps formulated with these ARE extracts exhibited significant antioxidant activity, achieving a 75 % reduction in DPPH• free radical signals, and maintained excellent color stability over a month, with minimal perceptual changes. Safety assessments confirmed the non-irritating properties of the therapeutic soaps, with an irritation score of 0 at low ARE concentrations. Furthermore, an economic analysis revealed a highly favorable Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 183 % and a Return on Investment (ROI) of 2890 %, underscoring the commercial viability of this sustainable approach. Overall, this study highlights the effectiveness and safety of utilizing NaSoMix for extracting high-value compounds and formulating innovative therapeutic cosmetic products, aligning with consumer preferences for natural ingredients while promoting environmental sustainability and economic feasibility.
Promoting User Well-being in Central Business District: The Role of Sustainable Open Spaces
(Academy Publishing Center, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, 2024-05-01) Shereen Hussein; Suzette Aziz; Rania Nasreldin
Sustainable Open spaces are the heart of every community. They play a great role in connecting people with places. This connection should be considered by every urban designer and architect, especially in the Central Business District (CBD), which is the core of this study. CBDs often face several challenges such as high-density usage and limited open spaces that can serve people. This research aims to define how the design of sustainable open spaces can contribute to the physical, social, and environmental well-being of users and achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): 3 – ''Good Health and Well-being" and 11 – "Sustainable Cities and Communities". In addition to highlighting the main aspects of sustainable urban design elements and user needs for enhancing well-being. Exploring the relation between these two domains as well as identifying their elements and indicators to define the most suitable sustainable design considerations exclusively for open spaces in CBD. The research’s methodology adopts a detailed analysis of both international and national case studies, which offers a comparative and contextual understanding of open spaces in different urban settings. In addition to validating the effectiveness of this strategy through urban analysis and questionnaire for users of CBD. Together, they are all used to develop an evaluation matrix to identify the relationship between design elements and their role in transforming open spaces in CBDs to places that can enhance users’ wellbeing and achieve sustainability goals. The research proves that well-designed sustainable open spaces can serve as vital components in healthy urban environments, significantly contributing to the overall quality of life and satisfaction of individuals in CBDs.
Converting lignocellulosic biomass into valuable end products for decentralized energy solutions: A comprehensive overview
(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-11-01) Ahmad Mustafa; Shah Faisal; Jaswinder Singh; Boutaina Rezki; Karan Kumar; Vijayanand S. Moholkar; Ozben Kutlu; Ahmed Aboulmagd; Hamdy Khamees Thabet; Zeinhom M. El-Bahy; Oguzhan Der; Cassamo Ussemane Mussagy; Luigi di Bitonto; Mushtaq Ahmad; Carlo Pastore
This review manuscript delves into lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) as a sustainable energy source, addressing the global demand for renewable alternatives amidst increasing oil and gas consumption and solid waste production. LCB, consisting of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose, is versatile for biochemical and thermochemical conversions like anaerobic digestion, fermentation, gasification, and pyrolysis. Recent advancements have led to a 25 % increase in bioethanol yields through alkali pre-treatment and optimized fermentation, a 20 % enhancement in microbial delignification efficiency, and a 35 % improvement in enzyme efficiency via nanobiotechnology. These innovations enhance biofuel production sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Decentralized energy systems utilizing locally produced biomass can reduce transmission losses and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 30 %, fostering community energy independence. These developments significantly contribute to global sustainability and socio-economic development by converting waste into valuable energy, promoting environmental stewardship, and supporting economic resilience. Furthermore, this review also discusses innovative strategies to address technological, economic, and environmental challenges and highlights the role of decentralized solutions in promoting sustainable energy production.
A Comprehensive Review and Mapping Citrus Supply Chains from a Sustainability Perspective across the European Union, Middle East, and Africa
(MDPI, 2024-10) Sherin Beshara; Ahmed Kassem; Hadi Fors; Nermine Harraz
Citrus fruits are among the most produced and traded agricultural products worldwide, with significant economic and social importance. Despite their importance in the European Union, Middle East, and Africa, the existing literature is limited. Several studies have reviewed different aspects of general agri-food supply chains, but a product-based literature review on citrus supply chains has not been conducted. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the citrus supply chain in these regions, identifying the key research topics, methodologies, and supply chain echelons addressed in the literature. The study employed a systematic review, real-world case studies, and supply chain stakeholders’ interviews. This multi-faceted approach allows researchers to highlight research gaps, map a complete citrus supply chain, and provide a detailed material flow and sustainability-oriented overview of potential inputs and outputs at different stages. By incorporating real-world case studies and stakeholder interviews, this paper offers a nuanced and practical perspective on the operational and sustainability challenges unique to the citrus supply chain. This study serves as a guide for future research and enables practitioners to pinpoint areas and strategies for operational improvement across the supply chain.
Eco-friendly production of biodiesel from Carthamus tinctorius L. seeds using bismuth oxide nanocatalysts derived from Cannabis sativa L. Leaf extract
(Institution of Chemical Engineers, 2024-08) Abbasi, Tehreem Usman; Ahmad, Mushtaq; Alsahli, Abdulaziz Abdullah; Asma, Maliha; b, Rozina; Mussagy, Cassamo Ussemane; Abdellatief, Tamer M.M; Pastore, Carlo; Mustafa, Ahmad
Global challenges in environmental protection, social welfare, and economic growth necessitate increased energy production and related services. Biofuel production from waste biomass presents a promising solution, given its widespread availability. This study focuses on converting highly potent Carthamus tinctorius L. seed oil (51 % w/w) into sustainable biofuel using a novel, highly reactive, recyclable, and eco-friendly bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) nano-catalyst derived from Cannabis sativa L. leaf extract. The physio-chemical properties of the synthesized biodiesel were analyzed using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Additionally, the green Bi2O3 nanoparticles were characterized through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Diffraction X-Ray (EDX), and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Optimal conditions for biodiesel production were determined using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) in combination with Central Composite Design (CCD), focusing on molar ratio, catalyst loading, and reaction duration. The highest output (94 %) of C. tinctorius-derived biodiesel (CTBD) was achieved under the following conditions: a temperature (75 °C) for time duration (100 min), a methanol to oil ratio (6:1), and a catalyst loading (0.69 wt%). The resulting biodiesel met international standards, with a sulphur content of 0.00097 wt%, and an acid value of (0.34 mg KOH/g). This study demonstrates that converting C. tinctorius waste seed oil into clean bioenergy is an effective waste management strategy that minimizes environmental impact.
Optimizing the magnetic field strength and concentration of silica coated cobalt ferrite nanoparticles for magnetic hyperthermia
(Elsevier B.V, 2024-09) Iqbal, Yousaf; Shah, Waqar Hussain; Khan, Muhammad Yaqoob; Ahmed, Pervaiz; Qureshi, Muhammad Tauseef; Khaled, Azza Mohamed; Salem, Marwa Syed
A therapeutic breakthrough in cancer treatment has recently been made by using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for heating in hyperthermia therapy. Unapproachable tumors are being effectively destroyed by focused heat produced by MNPs. The major challenges regarding practical application of this therapy include the control and improvement of induction heating ability of MNPs and hyperthermia temperature range between 42–47 °C, for secure treatment at targeted area. Here, in this study, we have reported the synthesis and characterization of core–shell structured silica-coated cobalt ferrite nanoparticles (SiO2 coated CoFe2O4 MNPs), which are potential candidates for use as heat source in magnetic hyperthermia therapy. The SiO2 coated CoFe2O4 MNPs were synthesized using the reverse micelle method, with the SiO2 coating performed simultaneously during MNP synthesis. Various analytical tools were utilized for the characterization. The structural measurements were probed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Monodisperse MNPs with nearly spherical core–shell structure was revealed by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results. The average diameter of MNPs obtained from TEM analysis was 15 nm. The surface coating of cobalt ferrite MNPs with silica was verified by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR). The saturation magnetization values obtained using vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) measurements were 45.74 emu/g, revealing the superparamagnetic nature of the nanoparticles. The heating efficiency of different concentrations of synthesized nanoparticles was evaluated in an aqueous solution under an alternating magnetic field of strength 5.5 kA/m at a frequency of 260 kHz. A saturation temperature of 42 °C was attained at an optimum concentration of 1.7 mg/mL, while a magnetic field strength of 3.9 kA/m achieved 42 °C at a fixed concentration of 3.5 mg/ml. The obtained specific absorption rate (SAR) values for all the samples were between 56.23 to 100.1 W/g. The correlation between SAR values, MNP concentration, and applied magnetic field strength was also examined. The high saturation magnetization, efficient heating rates, and high SAR values make our synthesized silica-coated cobalt ferrite nanoparticles promising candidates for magnetic hyperthermia treatments, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes for cancer patients.
Self-Creation Gravity Versus General Relativity: a Cosmological Comparison
(Pleiades Publishing, 2024-09) Hegazy, E. A; Kahil, Magd E
Abstract: In the context of the self-creation theory of gravitation and its counterpart, the relativity theory, we examine their associated Bianchi-type cosmological models by considering the existence of electromagnetic fields. The solution of the Einstein equations is presented by assuming that the cosmological model leads to a constant deceleration parameter (). There is no restriction on the pressure and density for the solution derived (i.e., the equation of state is not used). The technique of obtaining the scalar field is different from that used in the previous investigation. A law that shows the effect of the electromagnetic field on the entropy of the universe is derived. The entropy introduced in the two theories is a consequence of the second law of thermodynamics. Consequently, the well-known thermodynamic functions of the universe are revisited. The scalar field introduced in the self-creation theory give a good explanation for the entropy and other thermodynamics functions of the universe as compared to general relativity. Moreover, in the absence of the electromagnetic field, the solution obtained in the self-creation theory and in general relativity indicate a radiation model, provided that the obtained models, whether expressed geometrically or physically are displayed.
Investigating the performance of photovoltaic panels using optical water spectral splitting filter: An experimental and computational analysis
(American Institute of Physics, 2024-08) Safan, Yasser M.; Abdelrazik, A.S.; Elmohlawy, Ashraf E; Abdel-Moneim, S. A; Salem, Mohamed R
This study addresses the thermal stress issues caused by conventional cooling methods on photovoltaic (PV) cells, which reduce their efficiency and lifespan. Recently, the water-based spectral splitting filter (SSF) system was introduced as a solution to optimize solar energy conversion. The research fills a significant gap by focusing on the practical application of water-based SSFs under actual high-temperature conditions in Cairo (latitude of 30.1°N). The study evaluates the effects of radiation intensity (200-1000 W/m2), optical fluid flow rate (0.001-0.01 kg/s), and filter thickness (2-10 mm) on the system's performance. According to the data, the SSF system is a superior cooling technique as it can lower the PV temperature by 93% over a range of radiation intensities. The system's performance is also found to be positively influenced by increasing the SSF's thickness and flow rate, achieving 15% and 29.4% maximum increases in the fill factor and electrical efficiency, respectively, over the conventional PV panel at a thickness of 10 mm and a flow rate of 0.01 kg/s. Additionally, experimental data support the modeling findings, with a maximum variation of ±4.7% in the efficiency of the PV panel.
Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activity of Monolaurin against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Wound Infections
(Wiley, 2024-08) Abd El-Ghany, Shimaa Salah Hassan; Azmy, Ahmed Farag; EL-Gendy, Ahmed Osama; Abd El-Baky, Rehab Mahmoud; Mustafa, Ahmad; Abourehab, Mohammed A. S; El-Beeh, Mohamed E; Ibrahem, Reham Ali
Background. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the major pathogens associated with life-threatening infections, showing resistance to various antibiotics. Tis study aimed to assess the infuence of monolaurin on bioflm-forming MRSA. Methods. Te agar dilution method determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of monolaurin against MRSA isolates and explored its impact on the resistance profle of selected antibiotics. Te assessment of combined therapy involving monolaurin and antibiotics was conducted using fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC). Te tissue culture plate strategy appraised monolaurin’s antibioflm activity and its inhibitory concentration (IC50), with assessment via scanning electron microscopy. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) discerned a monolaurin efect on the expression of the icaD gene. Results. Monolaurin exhibited MIC values ranging from 500 to 2000 μg/mL. FIC index showed a synergistic efect of monolaurin with β-lactam antibiotics ranging from 0.0039 to 0.25 (p < 0.001). Among the 103 investigated MRSA isolates, 44 (44.7%) displayed moderate bioflm formation, while 59 (55.3%) were strong bioflm producers. Antibioflm activity demonstrated concentration dependence, confrming monolaurin’s capacity to inhibit bioflm formation and exhibited strong eradicating efects against preformed MRSA bioflms with IC50 values of 203.6 μg/mL and 379.3 μg/mL, respectively. Scanning electron microscope analysis revealed reduced cell attachments and diminished bioflm formation compared to the control. Te expression levels of the icaD gene were remarkably reduced at monolaurin concentrations of 250 and 500 μg/mL. Conclusion. Monolaurin had signifcant inhibitory efects on MRSA pre-existing bioflms as well as bioflm development. So, it can be employed in the treatment of severe infections, particularly those associated with bioflm formation including catheter-associated infections.
Synthesis of benzoic acid from catalytic co-pyrolysis of waste wind turbine blades and biomass and their kinetic analysis
(Elsevier B.V., 2024-08) Yousef, Samy; Eimontas, Justas; Striugas, Nerijus; Abdelnaby, Mohammed Ali
This work aims to study the catalytic co-pyrolysis of waste wind turbine blades (WTB: consists of fiberglass/unsaturated polyester resin) and woody biomass (WB) over ZSM-5 and Y-type zeolite catalysts for the production of benzoic acid. The experiments were performed on an equal combination of WTB and WB (WTB/WB) and a fixed amount of catalyst (50 wt%) using a thermogravimetric (TG) analyser at 10, 20 and 30 °C/min. The evolved products from the catalytic co-pyrolysis process were recognized using TG-FTIR and GC/MS. The kinetic and thermodynamic characteristics of catalytic co-pyrolysis was studied using various linear and nonlinear approaches. Also, the decomposition curves were predicted mathematically using an artificial neural network algorithm. The results revealed that the mixture was decomposed in the presence of both catalysts in the form of dual decomposition peaks at 361–374 °C and 428–443 °C, respectively. Based on TG-FTIR results, the C[dbnd]O stretching and carbon dioxide clusters were their main functional groups. While the GC-MS analysis revealed that the released vapours were completely free of toxic styrene (the main compound of resin) and the catalytic co-pyrolysis treatment succeeded in converting it into highly abundant benzoic acid, especially at 10 °C/ min, with an estimated 71.4 % (ZSM-5) and 64 % (Y-type). Whereas the activation energy was estimated at 262–295 kJ/mol (ZSM-5) and 319–357 kJ/mol (Y-type) with almost similar reaction complexity when compared to the case of absence of catalysts. Finally, the developed ANN algorithm showed high efficiency in predicting TG decomposition zones for both WTB/WB mixtures over zeolite catalysts with R2 more than 0.99. These results demonstrate that WB and zeolite catalysts can be used for upgrading the pyrolysis oil of WTB and eliminate its toxic styrene and convert it into benzoic acid and other aromatic hydrocarbons compounds (such as benzene, alanine, and 2-Propanamine).
Novel Compact Reconfigurable Metamaterial Diplexer-Based on RF Switches for Wireless Applications
(Semarak Ilmu Publishing, 2025-02) Tolba, Youssef Khaled; Daw, Ahmed Fawzy; Esia, Saleh Mohamed
This paper proposes a novel reconfigurable diplexer design based on metamaterial DCRLH transformer. The D-CRLH concept provides duality in the overall response of the diplexer achieving several bands and reducing the overall size of the diplexer, the novel reconfigurable diplexer size is 39x15mm!. The system achieves reconfigurability by utilizing a PIN-diode RF switching circuit in the D-CRLH load line, allowing for seamless connection and disconnection using a biasing circuit. The novel reconfigurable diplexer offers a wide band of operation of 1GHz to 4GHz with notches to cantered at bands 1.8GHz and 2.6GHz with both notches having suppression band of 300MHz. The reconfigurable diplexer covers commercially used wireless bands, making it suitable for diverse wireless communication applications.
Design considerations of CdSe solar cells for indoor applications under white LED illumination
(Elsevier B.V, 2024-07) Salem, Marwa S; Shaker, Ahmed; Okil, Mohamed; Li, Luying; Chen, Chao; Aledaily, Arwa N; Al-Dhlan, Kawther A; Zekry, Abdelhalim
This work sheds light on the potential of Cadmium Selenide (CdSe) solar cells for indoor applications. CdSe boasts a wide direct bandgap, high carrier mobility, and a high absorption coefficient, making it an attractive candidate for harnessing ambient indoor light. Our study centers around an experimental solar cell architecture composed of FTO/CdSe/PEDOT:PSS/CuI/ITO, which exhibits a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.00 %. Through a meticulous analysis of the core technological aspects of this cell, we successfully replicate the measured current-voltage characteristics and other experimental data, affirming the validity of our simulation modeling approach. Moving forward, we delve into the design and optimization of CdSe-based solar cells under white LED illumination. We emphasize the pivotal role of a double-hole transport layer (HTL) configuration over a single HTL, with a focus on optimizing the alignment between the HTL/back contact and HTL/absorber interfaces. The strategic incorporation of a heavily doped p-type HTL material, boasting both a deep valence band maximum (VBM) and a shallow conduction band minimum (CBM), is identified as paramount, especially for a deep VBM absorber like CdSe. Adding double HTL materials also facilitates efficient hole collection within the CdSe thin film while mitigating undesirable electron-hole recombination at the critical interface between the hole collection layer and the electrode. The implementation of a double HTL configuration based on CuI/ZnTe:Cu or CuI/BCS significantly enhances performance, resulting in a PCE in the order of 20 % under 200 lux and 2900 K LED illumination. Moreover, we introduce the single HTL design to provide other alternatives for efficiency boosting. Upon increasing the work function of the front contact, it is found that the valence band offset between the HTL and the absorber can be engineered, resulting in a PCE above 21.5 %.
A unifying methodology for gasoline-grade biofuel from several renewable and sustainable gasoline additives
(Institution of Chemical Engineers, 2024-08) Abdellatief, Tamer M.M; Ershov, Mikhail A; Abdelkareem, Mohammad Ali; Mustafa, Ahmad; Jamil, Farrukh; Kapustin, Vladimir M; Makhova, Ulyana A; Chernysheva, Elena A; Savelenko, Vsevolod D; Klimov, Nikita A; Olabi, Abdul Ghani
To increase thermal efficiency and decrease greenhouse gas emissions, the research of fuel formulation and combustion processes for internal combustion engines has drawn attention from all across the world. The aim of the current study is divided into two subsections. The first of this section's two subsections is to thoroughly assess the impacts of physical and chemical properties of different mixtures of several gasoline octane boosters on low petroleum hydrocarbon products. Additionally, the creation of bio-gasoline fuels with high environmental octane ratings using various combinations of specific gasoline octane boosters is covered in the second of this section's two subsections. The gasoline additives included di-isobutylene (DIB), methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), and isopropanol (IP). Furthermore, low petroleum gasoline fractions involved naphtha from natural gas condensate (N), light straight-run naphtha (LSRN), and hydrocracked gasoline (HG). In the current study, those renewable and sustainable gasoline additives and low petroleum hydrocarbon gasoline fractions were blended and examined as an innovative gasoline biofuel for gasoline engines for the first time. The experimental findings indicated that the octane number might be used to vary the antidetonation performance in the following order: ethanol> MTBE > Di-isobutylene > isopropanol > dimate > light straight-run naphtha > hydrocracked gasoline > naphtha from natural gas condensate > heavy straight run naphtha. Five different blends were applied and the physical and chemical characterizations of each blend separately in detail were investigated. The experimental results reported that octane numbers by research method for samples one, two, three, four, and five were 90.3, 92, 95.3, 98, and 100.2, respectively.

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