We introduce a novel approach to achieve broadband rainbow trapping in a 2D photonic crystal (PC) platform. By exploiting the concept of valley PCs, we engineer a structure that supports robust topological edge states. A carefully designed rotational angle gradient along the edge state path induces frequency-dependent light localization, forming a topological rainbow with a significantly expanded bandwidth. This phenomenon of topological rainbow trapping is attributed to the interplay between valley-dependent topological edge states and the engineered rotational angle gradient. To further enhance light localization and broaden the trapping spectrum, we incorporate a graded radius profile in the bottom row of dielectric columns. Through a combination of rotational angle modulation and radius grading, we successfully realize broadband rainbow trapping with enhanced light localization. Our findings reveal a broad trapping bandwidth spanning from 0.8314c/a to 0.9205c/a, showcasing the potential of this approach for applications in optical frequency filtering, sensing, and information processing. 
 

Topological photonic sensors have emerged as a breakthrough in modern optical sensing by integrating topological protection and light confinement mechanisms such as topological states, quasi-bound states in the continuum (quasi-BICs), and Tamm plasmon polaritons (TPPs). These devices exhibit exceptional sensitivity and high-Q resonances, making them ideal for high-precision environmental monitoring, biomedical diagnostics, and industrial sensing applications. This review explores the foundational physics and diverse sensor architectures, from refractive index sensors and biosensors to gas and thermal sensors, emphasizing their working principles and performance metrics. We further examine the challenges of achieving ultrahigh-Q operation in practical devices, limitations in multiparameter sensing, and design complexity. We propose physics-driven solutions to overcome these barriers, such as integrating Weyl semimetals, graphene-based heterostructures, and non-Hermitian photonic systems. This comparative study highlights the transformative impact of topological photonic sensors in achieving ultra-sensitive detection across multiple fields. 
 

This study provides a comprehensive anatomical and histological description of the eyelids of the Egyptian agama, Trapelus mutabilis. Both the movable upper and lower eyelids, as well as the thin and reduced third eyelid, represent distinctive features of the Egyptian agama's eye. The upper eyelid appears shorter than the lower one; furthermore, the cranial skin above the upper eyelid extends laterally to form a superior projection. Micro-ornamentations and sensory organs are located at the tips of the eyelid scales, which are arranged in an imbricated pattern. The histological structure of the upper eyelid closely resembles that of the lower eyelid. The external surface of both eyelids consists of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium composed of two to four cell layers, while the internal surface is lined with stratified cuboidal epithelium. Melanophores and iridophores constitute the principal pigment cells in both eyelids. The third eyelid is a reduced fold with a concave surface that connects posteriorly with the lacrimal gland at the medial canthus of the eye. Its external surface is covered by stratified squamous epithelium, whereas the internal surface is lined with one or two layers of cuboidal cells with rounded nuclei that are continuous with the conjunctival epithelium. Video recordings of the species under laboratory conditions demonstrated synchronization between eyelid and eyeball movements. Based on these observations, the present authors propose that this species possesses multiple structural and functional adaptations that enhance ocular protection. Protection against ultraviolet radiation is reinforced by two types of pigment cells, while the hard eyelid scales, superior extensions of wide scales, and the presence of sensory organs at the scale tips collectively enhance the protective reflex against external stimuli. These features represent morphological adaptations to the harsh environmental conditions in which this species lives.

Water scarcity and the rising cost of chemical fertilizers pose major challenges to sustainable crop production in Egypt, particularly in sandy soils with low
fertility. This study was conducted during the winters of 2022–2023 and 2023–2024 to investigate the combined effects of different irrigation levels and
Nostoc algae extract on soil properties and wheat (Triticum aestivum) productivity. Three irrigation levels (100%, 80%, and 60% of crop evapotranspiration
[ETc]) were evaluated with and without added algae. To analyze our data, we performed an analysis of variance (ANOVA) to evaluate differences among the
treatments; correlation analysis was conducted to assess the relationships among soil properties and plant properties. The results showed that application
of algae significantly increased soil organic matter under all irrigation treatments. In contrast, soil pH decreased in response to addition of algae, with the
greatest reduction observed under the 60% ETc treatment (0.29 and 0.31 units in the first and second growing seasons, respectively). Water productivity
differed significantly among treatments, following the order: 80% ETc > 100% ETc > 60% ETc (p ≤ 0.05). The application of algae under the 80% ETc regime
increased water productivity by 12.01% and 12.19% in the first and second seasons, respectively, compared with the treatment without algae. Moreover,
organic matter exhibited a strong positive correlation with N, P, and K contents in both straw and grain. The total yield reached its greatest level at 100% ETc
with algae (5,526.43 ± 61.30 kg feddan−1), whereas the lowest value was reported at 60% ETc without algae (2,880.97 ± 37.81 kg feddan−1). Overall,
application of algae contributed to improved soil properties, enhanced soil nutrients, structure and moisture retention, and mitigated yield losses
associated with reduced irrigation. These findings suggest that integrating algae biofertilizers with deficit irrigation strategies can serve as a sustainable
approach to improve wheat production in sandy soils under water-limited conditions.

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) provide adaptable platforms for drug delivery and antibacterial applications
owing to their adjustable porosity, high surface area, and catalytic characteristics. We present the
environmentally friendly, room-temperature synthesis of ZIF-8 nanocomposites, both with and without
penicillin G encapsulation. The materials were comprehensively evaluated using XRD, Raman spectroscopy,
FT-IR, DRS, SEM, and nitrogen sorption isotherms. Structural investigation verified high crystallinity,
preservation of framework integrity upon drug encapsulation, and enabled the formation of hierarchical
porosity with interparticle mesopores. SEM images identified nanoscale particles (50–100 nm), whereas
DRS spectra showed a blue shift following drug encapsulation, suggesting an interaction between penicillin
G and the ZIF-8 framework. The antibacterial assessment against Gram-positive (Bacillus cereus,
Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas
aeruginosa) bacteria revealed superior efficacy of penicillin-loaded ZIF-8 (ZIF3), resulting in decreasing CFU
counts and lower MIC values relative to free penicillin and chloramphenicol (positive control antibiotic).
These findings support the promise of ZIF-8-based nanocomposites as effective antibacterial agents for
applications in wound healing, drug delivery, and public health protection.

Azo dyes demonstrate dose-dependent carcinogenic and mutagenic effects in exposed
cells. Among remediation approaches, microbial adsorption is the most sustainable and
environmentally friendly method for eliminating azo dyes. A novel Aspergillus terreus silica
composite was developed as a sustainable adsorbent for crystal violet dye (CVD) removal.
The fungal strain was isolated from dye wastewater and was genetically identified by 18S
rRNA gene sequencing. Dried mycelia of A. terreus (PX920301) were combined with SiO2
(1:1 w/w) through iterative hydration-drying cycles, yielding a composite characterized by
FTIR analyses. Removal CVD %, adsorption capacity, and CVD residual were calculated,
and the adsorption process was optimized using Box–Behnken design (four factors, 25 runs).
The biosafety of the composite was assessed for phytotoxicity and microbial toxicity. The
composite was also applied to real dyes wastewater collected from the bacteriological
laboratory. Aspergillus terreus-silica composite showed the highest CVD removal percentage
by 85.4%, adsorption capacity (qe) 121.1 mg/L, and lowest CVD residual by 7.26 mg/L,
followed by the dried active mycelia (DA-mycelia) with CVD removal 40.23%, adsorption
capacity (qe) 57.05 mg/L, and CVD residual by 29.73 mg/L. Optimization data cleared that
the maximum experimental values of CVD removal (%) was 99.59% (predicted value 100%)
obtained in run number (4) using initial CVD concentration (200 mg/L), pH (8), adsorbent
composite weight (0.1 g), and contact time (48 h). Biosafety evaluation demonstrated
negligible phytotoxicity against Triticum aestivum seedlings post-treatment, with restored
germination and growth comparable to controls. Microbial toxicity assays via well-diffusion
to seven microbial isolates confirmed no toxic activities against the tested bacteria, yeast,
and fungi, underscoring the composite’s environmental safety. The composite could
decolorize the real dye wastewater of laboratories by 95.37%. In conclusion, A. terreus
mycelial-silica composite offers a cost-effective, sustainable, and eco-friendly alternative
solution for dye bioremediation.