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High-quality zinc oxide thin films doped with aluminium adatoms have effectively been fabricated on pristine soda-lime silica glass substrates via radio frequency magnetron sputtering system. The deposition temperature was varied to explore the impact of deposition regime transition of as-deposited Al:ZnO thin films on their performance as transparent conducting oxide layers. In particular, the depositions were conducted at room temperature, 100 °C, 200 °C, and 300 °C, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the resulting films. The Raman spectra depicted the modulation of Raman bands in correlation with the deposition regime transition, illustrating the impact of thermal induction on various properties of the as-deposited aluminium-doped zinc oxide thin films. Atomic force microscopy reveals the transformation from nearly spherical to elongated shape structure was obtained as the deposition process shifted from kinetic limited to thermodynamic limited regimes. The phase analysis and grazing incident of x-ray diffractometer disclose a single crystal orientation has been achieved at thermodynamic limited regime. However, two different crystal planes were predominant comparing between the surface and structural of as-deposited aluminium-doped zinc oxide thin films. It is also evident that a highly transparent with low lattice strain and better carrier concentrations of as-deposited aluminium-doped zinc oxide thin films were realized at thermodynamic limited regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc sulfide (ZnS) thin films prepared using the chemical bath deposition (CBD) method have demonstrated great viability in various uses, encompassing photonics, field emission devices, field emitters, sensors, electroluminescence devices, optoelectronic devices, and are crucial as buffer layers of solar cells. These semiconducting thin films for industrial and research applications are popular among researchers. CBD appears attractive due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, low energy consumption, low-temperature compatibility, and superior uniformity for large-area deposition. However, numerous parameters influence the CBD mechanism and the quality of the thin films. This study offers a comprehensive review of the impact of various parameters that can affect different properties of ZnS films grown on CBD. This paper provides an extensive review of the film growth and structural and optical properties of ZnS thin films influenced by various parameters, which include complexing agents, the concentration ratio of the reactants, stirring speed, humidity, deposition temperature, deposition time, pH value, precursor types, and annealing temperature environments. Various studies screened the key influences on the CBD parameters concerning the quality of the resulting films. This work will motivate researchers to provide additional insight into the preparation of ZnS thin films using CBD to optimize this deposition method to its fullest potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the feasibility of non cystoscopic removal of double J ureteral (DJ) stent using a foley catheter with suture in children in terms of success rate, number of attempts required and complications. Study Design: Cross Sectional study. Setting: Department of Pediatric Surgery, Services Hospital, Lahore. Period: August 2022 to August 2023. Methods: All the children who underwent DJ stent placement for any urological procedure were included if DJ stent was seen in the bladder postoperatively. After informed consent, under sedation and aseptic measures, the foley catheter with suture already passed through its eye, was introduced per urethral after adequate lubrication. The foley was given five to six rotations in clockwise direction for right sided and anti-clockwise for left sided stents respectively and pulled out keeping traction on the suture. In case of three failed attempts, a cystoscope was introduced under general anesthesia and the stent was removed. Successful removal, number of attempts needed, time taken, and post removal complications were noted to determine feasibility of the procedure. Results: Out of twenty patients, 17 patients (85%) underwent successful removal of DJ stent. The failure rate was 15% as three patients required cystoscope assisted removal. In 13 patients (76.5%) DJ stent was removed in first attempt, whereas in 4(23.5%) patients it required two attempts. Mean time taken was 8.83±7.33 minutes. Complications were noted in 2 patients (10%). Conclusion: Removal of DJ stent in children without cystoscope, using a foley catheter with suture is a safe and feasible procedure with a high success rate and should be attempted in selected cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: In children younger than two years, most surgeons perform the inguinal herniotomy superficially through the external ring, a technique known as Mitchell-Banks' Herniotomy (MBH) while in older children, commonly Ferguson and Gross Herniotomy (FGH) is performed which involves opening of inguinal canal. Our aim was to compare the FGH and MBH in terms of recurrence in boys with inguinal hernia. Methods: Boys with inguinal hernia presenting to Pediatric Surgery, Mayo Hospital Lahore from Dec 2016 to January 2018 were included in the study, if older than two years and younger than 14 years and without palpable deep ring (2 cm or more in width) or strangulation of inguinal hernia or malnutrition. They were randomly allocated in 2 groups after obtaining informed consent from parents, and underwent MBH (Group-A) and FGH (Group-B). Children were called for follow up after 1 week and at 6 months to assess for recurrence. Results: Total 260 patients with inguinal hernia were enrolled (NCT:03392636). The mean age of boys in Group-A was 5.2±3.0 years and in Group-B was 5.9±3.1 years. Mean operating time in Group-A (26.65±3.22 minutes) was longer than Group-B (15.92±4.22 minutes), and scrotal oedema was noted in 38 (29.2%) cases in Group-A, while 7 (5.4%) cases in Group-B. Testicular atrophy was noted in one patient of Group-B. Recurrence occurred in 1(0.8%) patient in Group-A, and in 8(6.2%) patients in Group-B (p-value 0.018). Conclusion: Mitchell-Banks' herniotomy has lower recurrence rate than Ferguson and Gross Herniotomy in boys older than two years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A stable oil-in-water (O/W) magnetic emulsion was prepared by the emulsification of organic ferrofluid in an aqueous media, and its theranostic applications were investigated. The synthesis and characterization of the organic ferrofluid were carried out comprising of superparamagnetic maghemite nanoparticles with oleic acid coating stabilized in octane. Both exhibit spherical morphology with a mean size of 6 nm and 200 nm, respectively, as determined by TEM. Thermogravimetric analysis was carried out to determine the chemical composition of the emulsion. The research work described here is novel and elaborates the fabrication of thin-film gradients with 5, 10, 15, and 20 bilayers by layer-by-layer technique using polydimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride (PDAC) and prepared magnetic colloidal particles. The thin-film gradients were characterized for their roughness, morphology, and wettability. The developed gradient films and colloids were explored in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and hyperthermia. T1- and T2-weighted images and their corresponding signal intensities were obtained at 1.5 T. A decreasing trend in signal intensities with an increase in nanoparticle concentration in colloids and along the gradient was observed in T2-weighted images. The hyperthermia capability was also evaluated by measuring temperature rise and calculating specific absorption rates (SAR). The SAR of the colloids at 259 kHz, 327 kHz, and 518 kHz were found to be 156 W/g, 255 W/g, and 336 W/g, respectively. The developed magnetic combinatorial thin-film gradients present a significant potential for the future efficient simultaneous diagnostic and therapeutic bioapplications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cupronickel-based alloys are widely known for their excellent resistance against aqueous corrosion, however, they can be susceptible to corrosion at accelerated rates and premature failure when exposed to a polluted or brackish seawater medium, even for short-term exposure durations. This unfamiliar corrosion behavior may be a result of the formation of an unprotected corrosion film during the early exposure durations. The paper investigates the corrosion phenomenon in cupronickel 90/10 alloy, by exposing the coupons in two different seawater compositions in the Arabian Sea region. Corrosion losses were investigated on the experimental coupons in a submerged position, for a maximum exposure duration of 150 days, using the conventional weight loss method and a new dimensional metrology-based measurement technique. Additionally, in this research the tubes of a marine heat exchanger having similar material that failed prematurely during operation in the Arabian Sea were also investigated for corrosion losses, followed by the characterization of the corrosion deposits using following analytical techniques: SEM, EDS, XRD and Raman Scattering. The experimental results showed significantly higher corrosion losses on coupons exposed to seawater site rich in pollutants and nutrients including dissolved inorganic nitrogenous compounds, compared to those subjected to a natural seawater solution in corrosion tanks maintained in a controlled environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the frequency of mutations in Low density lipoprotein receptor gene at exon 2 and 4 and its association with premature coronary artery disease (PCAD). Methods: A case-control study was conducted at Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology and Chemical Pathology department of Army Medical College Rawalpindi for a period of six months from June 2017 to December 2017. A sample size of 50 (40 patients, 10 controls) with 5% significance and 95% confidence interval was calculated with 4:1 case to control ratio. Consecutive sampling was used for distribution of participants into both groups. Diagnosed patients of premature coronary artery disease that is any cardiac event before the age of 45 in males and 50 in females were taken as cases. Controls were healthy males less than 45 years of age and females less than 50 years. Patients with diabetes mellitus, thyroid illnesses, any acute infection, low white blood cells count and kidney disorders were excluded. A total of fasting 10ml blood was withdrawn from each patient. 5ml was utilized for the routine blood tests and the rest 5ml was used for further genetic analysis. Results: Total 50 participants were included in study. Mean age of participants in years was 42.48 ± 4.02 SD. Mean total cholesterol (TC) (mmol/l) were higher among cases (4.91±0.64 SD) than controls (4.22±0.66 SD). Serum triglyceride(Tg) (mmol/l) and low-density lipoprotein(LDL) (mmol/l) was also high among cases (2.07±0.58; 2.84±0.46) than controls (1.99±0.24; 1.98±0.32). One synonymous mutation in exon 2 of low-density lipoprotein receptor gene (LDLR) and one non-synonymous mutation in exon 4 (LDLR gene) were identified in our population in four patients among the forty cases. Data was analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) 21 version and a p-value of less than 0.05 was taken as significant. Conclusion: Glutamic acid (E) is replaced by Lysine (K) at position number 207 (E207K) mutation at exon 4 of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene may be the causative genetic basis of premature coronary artery disease among Pakistani population. The identified synonymous mutation at exon 2 was not causative as there is no change in the amino acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare e-GFR estimated by creatinine or cystatin C based and combined creatinine and cystatin C based equations in type 2 diabetics in different stages of albuminuria. Study Design: Comparative cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Chemical Pathology, Army Medical College Rawalpindi in collaboration with endocrinology outpatient department Military Hospital Rawalpindi, from Nov 2015 to Nov 2016. Material and Methods: A total of 119 type 2 diabetic subjects of either gender, aged 30-60 years were enrolled in the study with duration of diabetes less than 15 years and were divided into further sub groups on the basis of degree of albuminuria determined by spot urine albumin to creatinine ratio (uACR). Fifty age matched disease free controls with no history of any systemic disease were also included in the study. Known patients of type 1 diabetes, chronic inflammatory disorders, uncontrolled hypertension, thyroid disease, chronic kidney disease, on lipid lowering drugs, steroids, ACE inhibitors and pregnant ladies were excluded from the study. Serum creatinine serum cystatin C were assessed on fully automated chemistry analyzer selectra. E-GFR was calculated by online GFR calculator by National Kidney Foundation. Comparison of means of e-GFR calculated by various equations was carried out by one way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey tests. Degree of agreement between various equations for the estimation of GFR was assessed by kappa statistics. A p-value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Mean e-GFR (ml/min/1.73m2) was lowest in cystatin C based CKD-EPI equation (89.56 ± 39.84) followed by combined cystatin C and creatinine based CKD-EPI (92.34 ± 37.88). Values of e-GFR by creatinine based CKD-EPI equation (95.84 ± 27.24), and by creatinine based MDRD equation (105.37 ± 64.98) were both higher. In creatinine based MDRD, equation normo albuminuria and micro albuminuria groups did not show statistically significant difference as compared to each other and control group. The mean value of e-GFR was found to be lowest in the normo albuminuric diabetics when estimated by cystatin C based CKD-EPI equation (88.82 ± 46.98) followed by combined creatinine and cystatin C based CKD-EPI equation (95.73 ± 42.96). Conclusion: Cystatin C based CKD-EPI equation for e-GFR identifies more patients with glomerular dysfunction in normo-albuminuric stage of DKD as compared to cystatin C and creatinine based CKD-EPI and creatinine based MDRD equations. Therefore, e-GFR estimated by serum cystatin C based CKD-EPI formula is a better option for assessing the renal status in patients of early DKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This qualitative and interdisciplinary study experiments with the emerging digital hypertexts, composed in multimodal/ multi-sequential representational form, in order to understand the intricacies of cognitive and metacognitive processing of content language. This research attempts to find out how this phenomenon is connected to language, and how multimodal text facilitates meaning making and understanding. Since understanding the digital language of hypertexts is a new phenomenon in the Pakistani educational context, therefore the present study attempts to explore the relevant, intricate cognitive and metacognitive patterns as the non-native readers navigate through the interactive hyperlinked language for meaning making. Thus, applying qualitative approach, the focus is on understanding the process rather than the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the efficacy of oral iron preparation with intramuscular iron sorbitol in treatment of iron deficiency anemia in children. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial. Place and Duration of Study: Paediatric department of Combined Military Hospital Kharian, Pakistan, from October 2011 to March 2013. Patients and Methods: In total 200 anemic children from 6 months to 5 years of age were included. Cut off value for Hb was < 8 gm/dl. Patients were divided into two groups, each of 100, randomly. Group A received oral sodium feredetate (iron edetate) and group B received intramuscular iron sorbitol. Rise in Hb > 10 gm/dl was kept as the desired value. Maximum duration of treatment planned was 12 weeks for group A and 2 weeks for group B. Laboratory parameters such as Hb%, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), retic count and serum ferritin level were used to detect the responses in both groups at one week, two weeks, four weeks and twelve weeks of treatment. Results: Among 200 patients, male and female distribution was 45% and 55% respectively.. Desired rise in Hb in group B was achieved much earlier i.e. at two weeks as compared to group A. Progressive rise in laboratory parameters was observed but this rise was more evident in group B as compared to group A. After one week treatment in group A, rise in retic count, Hb, ferritin and MCV was 0.759 ± 0.318, 0.814 ± 0.387, 0.47 ± 0.154 and 4.28 ± 2.468 respectively. But rise in these values in group B was 2.235±0.632, 2.335 ± 0.135, 6.31 ± 1.123 and 12.11 ± 0.414 respectively. Same persistent different trend was observed at 2 and 4 weeks. After 12 weeks treatment in group A, rise in retic count, Hb, ferritin and MCV was 1.044 ± 0.222, 5.204 ± 0.134, 17.39 ± 2.551 and 16.61 ± 1.214 respectively but rise in these laboratory indices in group B was 0.551 ± 0.261, 6.097 ± 0.21, 42.49 ± 2.768 and 20.68 ± 2.233 respectively. The comparison of hematological indices after 12 weeks in A and B groups show significant differences. All these parameters improved in both groups but improvement in group B was drastically more prominent when compared with group A (p-value < 0.05). Conclusion: Intramuscular iron sorbitol therapy is an alternative and comparatively better treatment option as compared to oral iron therapy, sodium feredetate, in regards of treatment duration and earlier rise in the laboratory indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To find out the pattern of acid base abnormalities in critically ill patients in a tertiary care health facility. Study Design: A descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in the department of pathology, Combined Military Hospital Kharian from January 2013 to June 2013. Patients and Methods: Two hundred and fifty patients suffering from various diseases and presenting with exacerbation of their clinical conditions were studied. These patients were hospitalized and managed in acute care units of the hospital. Arterial blood gases were analysed to detect acid base status and their correlation with their clinical condition. Concomitant analysis of electrolytes was carried out. Tests related to concurrent illnesses e.g. renal and liver function tests, cardiac enzymes and plasma glucose were assayed by routine end point and kinetic methods. Standard reference materials were used to ensure internal quantify control of analyses. Results: Two hundred and fifteen patients out of 250 studied suffered from acid base disorders. Gender distribution showed a higher percentage of male patients and the mean age was 70.5 ± 17.4 years. Double acid base disorders were the commonest disorders (34%) followed by metabolic acidosis (30%). Anion gap was calculated to further stratify metabolic acidosis and cases of diabetic ketoacidosis were the commonest in this category (47%). Other simple acid base disorders were relatively less frequent. Delta bicarbonate was calculated to unmask the superimposition of respiratory alkalosis or acidosis with metabolic acidosis and metabolic alkalosis. Though triple acid base disorders were noted in a small percentage of cases (05%), but were found to be the most complicated and challenging. Mixed acid base disorders were associated with high mortality. Conclusion: A large number of critically ill patients manifested acid base abnormalities over the full spectrum of these disorders. Mixed acid base disorders were commonest and were bad prognostic indicators, most often associated with high mortality. This warrants a high index of suspicion, a thorough clinical assessment of patient and a structured approach to analyze the relevant laboratory data in the given clinical setting. Only with prompt detection of an acid base disorder, clinician can formulate an appropriate management strategy for the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foreign body ingestion is quite a common phenomenon in pediatric population and presents with a wide range of clinical manifestations. This is a case report of hair pin ingestion which presented in pediatric surgery emergency one year post ingestion with duodenocecal fistula and was managed with removal of hair pin and repair of duodenal and cecal fistula rents primarily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citation analysis is a statistical method used for arrangement of the cited material in some kind of rank in order to study their relative importance. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the usage pattern of literature as revealed through the analysis of citation figuring in the doctoral dissertations of statistics and operations research awarded by Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh. The doctoral dissertations submitted in the Department of Statistics and Operations Research accepted by AMU, Aligarh during 1985-2005 had been taken as the source data for the present study. Citation analysis was the methodology chosen for the study, which was based on the 2266 bibliographic references appended to the 24 doctoral dissertations. These references stand as the baseline for the data analysis, interpretation and presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Stigmasterol is able to reinstate the imbalance of cytokine in arthritis. • Stigmasterol inhibited sign of inflamed joints, boosted antioxidant status and shunt the inflammation. • Stigmasterol obstruct the erosive factors as shown by ELISA and qPCR. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder, in which imbalance in synthesis and production of inflammatory cytokines promotes cartilage and bone destruction. Out of the numerous factors contributing to RA prognosis, the transcription factor NF-kBp65 and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) signaling module has been well implicated as a key regulator of inflammation and downstream signaling events in RA. Stigmasterol (STG) is a natural plant based product exhibiting anti-inflammatory activity, however, the mechanism through which it exhibits anti-inflammatory activity has not been completely understood. The current study aimed to understand the mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory effect of STG in the treatment of RA in collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) model of arthritis. Our results showed that STG improved the clinical severity in CIA rats compared to control. The therapeutic effects were related with reduced joint destruction and improved histological alterations. Furthermore, treatment of STG also significantly suppresses the expression of proinflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, iNOS and COX-2) and increases the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) through down-regulating the expression of NF-kBp65 (inhibiting p-IKB-α activation) and p38MAPK in joints. In agreement with our results, we can suggest that high therapeutic efficacy of STG against CIA induced inflammation in rats are attributed through the suppressing proinflammatory cytokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Infectious diseases, particularly those associated with biofilms, are challenging to treat due to an increased tolerance to commonly used antibiotics. This underscores the urgent need for innovative antimicrobial strategies. Here, we present an alternative simple-by-design approach focusing on the development of biocompatible and antibiotic-free nanocarriers from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that has the potential to combat microbial infections and phosphatidylglycerol (DOPG), which is attractive for use as a biocompatible prominent amphiphilic component of Gram-positive bacterial cell membranes. We assessed the anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities of these nanoformulations (hexosomes and vesicles) against S. aureus and S. epidermidis , which are the most common causes of infections on catheters and medical devices by different methods (including resazurin assay, time-kill assay, and confocal laser scanning microscopy on an in vitro catheter biofilm model). In a DHA-concentration-dependent manner, these nano-self-assemblies demonstrated strong anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities, particularly against S. aureus. A five-fold reduction of the planktonic and a four-fold reduction of biofilm populations of S. aureus were observed after treatment with hexosomes. The nanoparticles had a bacteriostatic effect against S. epidermidis planktonic cells but no anti-biofilm activity was detected. We discuss the findings in terms of nanoparticle-bacterial cell interactions, plausible alterations in the phospholipid membrane composition, and potential penetration of DHA into these membranes, leading to changes in their structural and biophysical properties. The implications for the future development of biocompatible nanocarriers for the delivery of DHA alone or in combination with other anti-bacterial agents are discussed, as novel treatment strategies of Gram-positive infections, including biofilm-associated infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal bacterial meningitis is a devastating illness with significant mortality and morbidity. Incidence and etiology of neonatal bacterial sepsis and meningitis varies among developed and developing countries. We are reporting a case of 6 days old neonate who presented with fever, refusal to take feed and then followed by an episode of seizure activity. Laboratory parameters for complete sepsis screening including cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and metabolic screening were absolutely normal for his age, but CSF culture revealed growth of group B Streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae). Patient was treated successfully without any morbid sequel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate cystatin C as a screening biomarker for early detection of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Study Design: Case control study. Place and Duration of Study: Army Medical College and Pak Emirates Military Hospital, from Dec 2017 Jun 2018. Methodology: This case control study was conducted at department of Chemical Pathology, Army Medical College and Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi. A total of 30 women with gestational diabetes (cases) and 30 healthy pregnant women (control) were recruited in the study. HbA1c, cystatin C and insulin levels were performed on samples of all the participants. Seventy-five gram OGGT was performed on all subjects. Paired t-test and Odds ratio were calculated for cases and controls. Results: The cystatin C levels were high with increasing parity. Paired sample t test showed strong association of cystatin C to HbA1c, fasting and post load glucose levels in patients of GDM (HbA1c t (60)=36.0, p<0.001, Fasting glucose t (60) = 34.3, p<0.001, One-hour glucose t (60)=27.6, p<0.001 and Two hours glucose t (60)=22.9, p<0.001). Adjusted odds ratios (OR) based on cut off value of cystatin C (>0.95) of maternal plasma showed positive association with one-hour (OR=4.7) and two-hour (OR=4.3) post load plasma glucose levels in OGTT. Conclusion: This study strongly suggested that cystatin C may be used as preliminary screening biomarker for early detection of GDM. Patients having elevated levels of cystatin C then can be further evaluated using OGTT. This two-step approach has potential to rationalize the diagnostic work up of this category of patients and would also result in evidence-based patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the predictive value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) with procalcitonin in cord blood. Study Design: Case control study. Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted in Army Medical College and Pak Emirates Military Hospital Rawalpindi, Jul 2018 to Mar 2019. Methodology: Those mothers, having deliveries with early rupture of membranes (EROM), premature rupture of membranes (PROM), preterm, dai handled, meconium and failure of induction have been included. Total 60 neonates were included in this study. Nineteen neonates were taken as a continuous clinical unsteadiness with a clearly documented suspicion of sepsis and two neonatologists decided sepsis within 1-3 days of life. While remaining neonates were control who have no infection. Results: Laboratory values show there was a gross difference in mean values of case and control for white blood cell (WBC), platelets, neutrophil, platelet to lymphocyte ratio and procalcitonin with statistical significance except lymphocyte count and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio. In combined ROC curve. The cutoff of procalcitonin was calculated to be 0.4ng/ml with an area under curve of 84.5%. Similarly, cutoff of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio was determined to be 1.39 with an area under curve of 65.1% at sensitivity of 63% and specificity of 58.5%. Cutoff of platelet to lymphocyte ratio was determined to be 47.48 with an area under curve of 66.8% at sensitivity of 78.9% and specificity of 49%. Conclusion: Combined hematological markers neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and platelet to lymphocyte ratio with procalcitonin in cord blood could be used as a simple, sensitive and predictive parameter for identifying neonates susceptible to sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A numerical analysis of a CdTe/Si dual-junction solar cell in terms of defect density introduced at various defect energy levels in the absorber layer is provided. The impact of defect concentration is analyzed against the thickness of the CdTe layer, and variation of the top and bottom cell bandgaps is studied. The results show that CdTe thin film with defects density between 1014 and 1015 cm−3 is acceptable for the top cell of the designed dual-junction solar cell. The variations of the defect concentrations against the thickness of the CdTe layer indicate that the open circuit voltage, short circuit current density, and efficiency (ƞ) are more affected by the defect density at higher CdTe thickness. In contrast, the Fill factor is mainly affected by the defect density, regardless of the thin film's thickness. An acceptable defect density of up to 1015 cm−3 at a CdTe thickness of 300 nm was obtained from this work. The bandgap variation shows optimal results for a CdTe with bandgaps ranging from 1.45 to 1.7 eV in tandem with a Si bandgap of about 1.1 eV. This study highlights the significance of tailoring defect density at different energy levels to realize viable CdTe/Si dual junction tandem solar cells. It also demonstrates how the impact of defect concentration changes with the thickness of the solar cell absorber layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the effect of delayed centrifugation on integrity of serum chemistry. Study Design: Quasi experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, from Jul 2018 to Sep 2018. Patients and Methods: A sample of 20 ostensibly healthy adult subjects were recruited in the study. 16 cc of blood was drawn from each individual. It was distributed evenly (2 cc each) in plain tube. One tube was centrifuged immediately after clotting while remaining 7 at the time of expiry of delay period up to 12 hours. All the samples were stored at room temperature (25±1°C). Samples were analyzed for routine chemistry analytes. Data was analyzed by using SPSS 23. Repeated samples ANOVA and Paired t-test was used to access the variation in the levels of different analytes. Results: Urea and ALT levels showed significant variation over time. While other remained stable up to 12 hours. Urea showed significant change at test on 4th hours (p≤0.001). ALT remained stable up to 6 hours, 8th hour analysis showed significant variation (p=0.001) with sharp increase in the results of both urea and ALT. Conclusion: Variation in urea levels became significant at 4th hour while ALT, bilirubin and calcium levels were stable up to 6th hour. Cholesterol levels remained within non-significant variation till 8th hour while all other analytes showed stability up to 12 hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal conductivity (TC) and thermal stability are the basic requirements and highly desirable properties in thermal management, heat storage and heat transfer applications. This work is regarding the fabrication of polystyrene/boron nitride composites and melt extruded to produce good thermal stability, increased thermal conductivity and enhanced mechanical properties. Our strategy is potentially applicable to produce thermally conductive composites of low cost over large scale. Boron nitride powder is bath sonicated in 10% NH3 solution to avoid its agglomeration and tendency toward entanglement in a polymer matrix. An approximately 67.43% increase in thermal conductivity and 69.37% increase in tensile strength as well as 56 multiple increases in thermal stability of the optimum samples were achieved. The developed polymeric composites are potentially applicable in the electronic industry, especially in electronic devices used for 5G, heat sink and several other aviation applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this review article, we explore the insertion possibility of molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2) thin-film heterostructures into copper, zinc, and tin sulfide (CZTS) based thin film solar cells for improved performance. CZTS has gained prominence as a naturally occurring, non-toxic alternative to conventional solar energy system materials, necessitating a focus on the study of integrating MoS 2 (as a back contact) with thin-film solar cells with CZTS integration, as well as understanding the impact on device efficiency and stability to advance, upscale, and commercialize products. By analyzing the MoS 2 -CZTS interface, critical insights into MoS 2 's functioning in optimizing charge carrier dynamics, lowering recombination losses, and enhancing overall device performance have been framed in this work. Furthermore, the necessity of optimizing process parameters and characterizing MoS 2 back contacts in the context of CZTS-based solar cells is discussed. This thorough study intends to highlight the revolutionary potentials of MoS 2 back contact structures, pave the way for future developments in optoelectronics, and contribute to the continued-evolution of sustainable energy technology. This article will be a valued resource for understanding and coupling the synergies between MoS 2 back surface field (BSF) and CZTS in thin film solar cell applications for future advancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: New tetradentate ligands 2-(2-mercaptoethylthio)-N-(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)acetamide H2L1 and 2-chloro-2-(2-mercaptoethylthio)-N-(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)acetamide H2L2 were synthesised from the reaction of 2-aminomethanepyridine with 1,4-dithian-2-one and 3-chloro-1,4-dithian-2-one, respectively. Monomeric complexes of these ligands, of general formulae K[CrIII(L n )Cl2], K2[MnII(L n )Cl2] and [M(L n )] (M=Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), Cd(II) or Hg(II); n =1, 2) are reported. The mode of bonding and overall geometry of the complexes were determined through IR, UV–Vis, NMR and mass spectral studies, magnetic moment measurements, elemental analysis, metal content and conductance. These studies revealed octahedral geometries for the Cr(III), Mn(II) complexes, square planar for Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes and tetrahedral for the Fe(II), Co(II), Zn(II), Cd(II) and Hg(II) complexes. The study of complex formation via molar ratio in DMF solution has been investigated and results were consistent to those found in the solid complexes with a ratio of (M:L) as (1:1). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Introduction: Mobile phone applications have been used as part of the self-monitoring of patients in Malaysia with Cardiovascular disease (CVD). As part of a patient-centric system, mobile phone use could help resolve issues in Malaysia's provider-centric healthcare system due to the growth in CVD causing a hike in healthcare costs, and the low ratio of medical professionals to patients and resultant increase in medical professionals' workloads and the long waiting time for treatment at various stages due to overcrowded public hospitals. The purpose of this study is to systematically review the evidence for the strengths and challenges of mHealth for CVD self-care monitoring in facilitating health-related behavioural changes. Methods: The databases were manually searched for references and gray literature published between 2016 and 2020. We have applied Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic-Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method for this systematic review. Overall, the methodological quality of the trials varied, and 19 articles were selected. Results: Findings were analysed from the variables -- clinical biomarkers, mHealth acceptance, self-care, psychology or cognitive and clinical outcome or study end points. The types of mHealth integrated in self-care were mobile application or website in touch screen devices, text messages or phone calls, and wearable trackers. Among the advantages of mHealth are useful, easy to be used, positive improvement of secondary prevention control, positive psychological condition, minimize utilisation of healthcare facility, good quality of life (QoL), and applicability across age and technology literacy. The challenges of mHealth are data accuracy, privacy concern, technical issues, inconsistent engagement. Research and practical implications suggest a minimum 12-month duration of mHealth engagement for more significant results, disregard mortality rate as an outcome measurement, and an inclusion of technical and moral support to encourage continuous users' engagement with mHealth. Conclusion: mHealth interventions result in various short- and long-term advantages, with precautious of challenges to be resolved towards achieving optimum health from self-care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to develop and optimise a Curcumin-loaded SLNs (C-SLNs) patch through a new approach for transdermal delivery. C-SLNs were optimised through the response surface central composite design using the modified injection method. Optimised C-SLNs were loaded into a polyvinyl alcohol-based patch through the backing membrane method. Compatibility studies (FTIR, XRPD), in vitro release, ex vivo skin permeation, accelerated stability, and evaluation studies of the patch were also performed. Prepared C-SLNs exhibited average particle diameter of 170 ± 2 nm with an encapsulation efficiency of 90 ± 3.5% (w/w) while SEM illustrated spherical shape of particles. In vitro release data ensured a sustained release for up to 72 hours. The enhancement ratio of C-SLNs based patch with permeation enhancer (PE) was high up to 6.5 folds as compared to patch without PE. It is concluded that the modified injection method is simple, economical, and less time consuming for the development of C-SLNs patch for the transdermal route. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: Eczema herpeticum (EH) is a disseminated viral infection occurring in preexisting skin conditions and burns. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency, treatment, and outcome of EH in pediatric burn patients. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in the pediatric surgery department, King Edward Medical University/ Mayo Hospital, Lahore, from October 2015 to July 2018 after ethical approval. All pediatric burn patients diagnosed with EH and not sensitive to Acyclovir or suffering from chemical burns were enrolled in the study. Diagnosis was confirmed by presence of umbilicated lesions in burnt area and a positive Tzanck smear. Intravenous acyclovir and supportive treatment was started. Mortality, development of contractures, length of hospital stay/ time for wound healing, re-activation of EH was calculated. Results: Out of 3958 admitted pediatric burn patients, 94(2.4%) developed EH. Girls were 58(61.7%) and boys were 36(38.3%). Mean age was 5.16 ±2.88 years. Scald burn was in 43(45.7%) patients, flame burn in 48(51.1%) patients, and electric flash burn in 3(3.2%) patients. Mean TBSA was 21.74±10.38%. Vesicular eruptions settled in 92 (97.9%) patients after treatment with acyclovir. Mean duration of treatment was 19.89±8.9 days and hospital stay was 29.84±16.98 days. Twenty three patients (24.5%) developed contractures and two patients (2.1%) developed disseminated EH and expired. Six (6.4%) patients had reactivation of EH. Conclusion: EH occurred in 2.4% of admitted pediatric burn patients. Intravenous acyclovir was successful in 97.9% of the patients, although 2.1% developed disseminated EH and expired. Re-activation occurred in 6.4% of the cases and was associated with prolonged hospital stay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant phytochemicals have potential decontaminating properties, however, their role in the amelioration of hydrophobic water filtration membranes have not been elucidated yet. In this work, phytochemicals (i.e., cannabinoids (C) and terpenes (T) from C. sativa) were revealed for their antibacterial activity against different Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. As such, a synergistic relationship was observed between the two against all strains. These phytochemicals individually and in combination were used to prepare polyethersulfone (PES) hybrid membranes. Membrane characterizations were carried out using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Moreover, contact angle, water retention, surface roughness, mechanical testing, and X-ray florescence analysis were also carried out. According to results, the CT-PES hybrid membrane exhibited the lowest contact angle (40°), the highest water retention (70%), and smallest average pore size (0.04 µm). The hybrid membrane also exhibited improved water flux with no surface leaching. Quantitative bacterial decline analysis of the CT-PES hybrid membranes confirmed an effective antibacterial performance against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The results of this study established cannabinoids and terpenes as an inexpensive solution for PES membrane surface modification. These hybrid membranes can be easily deployed at an industrial scale for water filtration purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was aimed to develop amoxicillin (AM) loaded thiomer based mucopermeating and mucoadhesive nanocarrier system that allows it to reach the bacterium, hiding in deeper mucus layers and extends its availability at infection site. Amoxicillin loaded nanocargoes were prepared using unmodified polycarbophil (PCP), thiolated polycarbophil (PCP-Cys), and papain modified thiolated polycarbophil (PCP-Cys-PAP) by ionic gelation method and processed for in vitro and ex vivo and in vivo characterization. All the nanocargoes were in size range of 111–288 nm. Drug loaded papain modified thiolated polycarbophil (AM-PCP-Cys-PAP) based nanocargoes showed an entrapment efficiency of 78 ± 7.2%, a zeta potential of − 13.4 mV and spherical shape. Both AM-PCP-Cys and AM-PCP-Cys-PAP exhibited a sustained release of drug up to 48 h and AM-PCP-Cys-PAP nanocargoes showed significant stability in acidic pH as compared to pure drug. Rheological investigation demonstrated a twofold higher mucoadhesion for thiolated polycarbophil nanocargoes. Ex vivo muco-penetration studies demonstrated deepest permeation of papain modified nanocargoes into the mucus. Cytotoxicity analysis showed that nanocarrier formulations were non-toxic to Caco-2 cells and maintained cell viability after 48 h. In vitro growth inhibition assay for H. pylori exhibited better efficacy for AM-PCP-Cys-PAP nanocargoes in terms of improved stability along with complete eradication of bacteria over prolonged period of time. In vivo acute toxicity studies on vital organs of mice exhibited no significant change in cell morphology. In vivo clearance study showed that AM-PCP-Cys-PAP nanoformulation was successful in complete eradication of bacteria. Based on above findings, amoxicillin loaded papain modified thiolated polycarbophil nanocarrier system was able to completely eradicate H. pylori infection that was attributed to its enhanced mucopermeating and mucoadhesive nature. The functionalized nanocarriers showed an interesting future potential for infectious therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) includes coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease (stroke), peripheral artery disease, and atherosclerosis of the aorta. All females face the threat of CVD. But becoming aware of symptoms and signs is a great challenge since most adults at increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) have no symptoms or obvious signs especially in females. The symptoms may be identified by the assessment of their risk factors. The Bayesian approach is a specific way in dealing with this kind of problem by formalizing a priori beliefs and of combining them with the available ob-servations. This study aimed to identify associated risk factors in CVD among female patients presenting with ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) using Bayesian lo-gistic regression and obtain a feasible model to describe the data. A total of 874 STEMI female patients in the National Cardiovascular Disease Database-Acute Coronary Syn-drome (NCVD-ACS) registry year 2006-2013 were analysed. Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation approach was applied in the univariate and multivariate analysis. Model performance was assessed through the model calibration and discrimina-tion. The final multivariate model of STEMI female patients consisted of six significant variables namely smoking, dyslipidaemia, myocardial infarction (MI), renal disease, Killip class and age group. Females aged 65 years and above have higher incidence of CVD and mortality is high among female patients with Killip class IV. Also, renal disease was a strong predictor of CVD mortality. Besides, performance measures for the model was considered good. Bayesian logistic regression model provided a better understanding on the associated risk factors of CVD for female patients which may help tailor prevention or treatment plans more effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the patients of chronic kidney disease for insulin resistance. Study Design: Cross sectional observational study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the chemical pathology department of Army Medical College/Military Hospital Rawalpindi, from Nov 2016 to Apr 2017. Material and Methods: Fifty patients were recruited for this study with deranged renal functions and/or having any structural renal abnormality for more than 3 months. These patients did not have any history of diabetes and dialysis. Fifty ages matched healthy individuals were included as controls. Renal function tests, lipid profile, complete blood count, fasting plasma glucose and serum insulin levels were performed in all subjects. Insulin resistance was calculated by using homeostatic model for assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Results of this study were analyzed on SPSS version 23. Results: Fasting insulin levels were much higher in the patient with chronic kidney disease as compared to controls (p-value=0.001). HOMA-IR in cases was also significantly higher. Statistical comparison of lipid profile showed significant difference of only triglycerides level. Conclusion: HOMA-IR is markedly raised in the patients of chronic kidney disease. This indicates a significant association of chronic kidney disease with insulin resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Deposit AlN ‹002› thin film on Mo/Si substrate using AlN ceramic target without substrate heating. • The purity of nitrogen gas dominates the physical quality and chemical properties of AlN thin film. • AlN ‹002› thin film exhibits different piezoelectric characteristics compared to AlN ‹100›. The growth of highly crystalline c-plane AlN ‹002› is extremely difficult, entailing high temperature and ultra-high vacuum condition. In sputtering technique, the addition of nitrogen into argon sputtering gas can significantly assist the formation of AlN ‹002› at low temperature. We incorporated purified nitrogen gas and observed the consistent formation of single crystal ‹002› AlN thin film layer sputter-deposited on Mo/Si substrate from the AlN ceramic target. Small presence of oxygen content within AlN crystal relates to the preferential growth of AlN ‹002›. High oxygen content in AlN thin film due to the use of unpurified nitrogen and argon only sputtering gas prefers the formation of AlN ‹100›. Different AlN crystal structure has shown distinct thin film properties and piezoelectric response. This work provides a method to control the crystal structure of the sputter-deposited AlN thin film layer, either c-plane AlN ‹002›, a-plane AlN ‹100› or polycrystalline AlN. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the association of circulating levels of sex hormone binding globulin with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Study Design: Case control study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Department of Chemical Pathology, Army Medical College Rawalpindi. Material and Methods: This study consisted of two groups; A and B. Group A consisted of type 2 diabetic patients and group B consisted of healthy controls. Each group comprised of 60 participants which were randomly selected from Endocrinology Department of Military Hospital (MH), Rawalpindi. Fasting blood samples of the participants were analyzed for serum sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting insulin levels. The biochemical analysis was carried out at the Chemical Pathology Department, Army Medical College Rawalpindi. The data obtained were statistically analyzed with SPSS version 20. Results: In this study, low levels of SHBG (39.53 ± 22.25 vs. 62.35 ± 32.52, p=<0.05) were noted in diabetic as compared to the control participants. The diabetic patients presented with significantly higher fasting plasma glucose (11.23 ± 3.65 vs. 4.35 ± 0.68, p=<0.05), HbA1c (6.84 ± 0.48 vs. 5.31 ± 0.48, p=<0.05), serum insulin (8.90 ± 6.51 vs. 6.32 ± 4.09, p=<0.05) and insulin resistance (4.84 ± 5.18 vs. 1.23 ± 0.83, p=<0.05), calculated by HOMA-IR. SHBG was negatively associated with HbA1c (r-0.101), FPG (r -0.107), serum insulin (r-0.132) and insulin resistance, IR (-0.142) in the diabetic group. Conclusion: This study concludes that SHBG levels are markedly decreased in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, SHBG has a potential to be used as a biomarker of metabolic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research endeavor aimed to synthesize the lead (II) diphenyldiselenophosphinate complex and its use to obtain lead selenide nanostructured depositions and further the impedance spectroscopic analysis of these obtained PbSe nanostructures, to determine their roles in the electronics industry. The aerosol-assisted chemical vapor deposition technique was used to provide lead selenide deposition by decomposition of the complex at different temperatures using the glass substrates. The obtained films were revealed to be a pure cubic phase PbSe, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. SEM and TEM micrographs demonstrated three-dimensionally grown interlocked or aggregated nanocubes of the obtained PbSe. Characteristic dielectric measurements and the impedance spectroscopy analysis at room temperature were executed to evaluate PbSe properties over the frequency range of 100 Hz–5 MHz. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss gave similar trends, along with altering frequency, which was well explained by the Koops theory and Maxwell–Wagner theory. The effective short-range translational carrier hopping gave rise to an overdue remarkable increase in ac conductivity (σac) on the frequency increase. Fitting of a complex impedance plot was carried out with an equivalent circuit model (Rg Cg) (Rgb Qgb Cgb), which proved that grains, as well as grain boundaries, are responsible for the relaxation processes. The asymmetric depressed semicircle with the center lower to the impedance real axis provided a clear explanation of non-Debye dielectric behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a bi-polymer system comprising of transparent poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP), a visible light active Ag3PO4/P25 composite was immobilized into the mats of polymeric electrospun nanofibers. After nanofibers synthesis, sacrificial PVP was removed, leaving behind rough surface nanofibers with easy access to Ag3PO4/P25 composite. The remarkable photocatalytic efficiency was attained using a PMMA and Ag3PO4/P25 weight ratio of 1:0.6. Methyl orange (MO) was used to visualize pollutant removal and exhibited stable removal kinetics up to five consecutive cycles under simulated daylight. Also, these polymeric nanofibers (NFs) revealed an important role in the destruction of microorganisms (E. coli), signifying their potential in water purification. A thin film fibrous mat was also used in a small bench scale plug flow reactor (PFR) for polishing of synthetic secondary effluent and the effects of inorganic salts were studied upon photocatalytic degradation in terms of total organic carbon (TOC) and turbidity removal. Lower flow rate (5 mL/h) resulted in maximum TOC and turbidity removal rates of 86% and 50%, respectively. Accordingly, effective Ag3PO4/P25 immobilization into an ideal support material and selectivity towards target pollutants could both enhance the efficiency of photocatalytic process under solar radiations without massive energy input. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]