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Aim: Calcium hydroxide (CH) has been considered as a direct pulp capping materials (DPC) for the last decades despite having some limitations. Phosphorylate pullulan (PPL) incorporated with CH (CHPPL) is a novel biomaterial that was introduced as a promising DPC material. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the inflammatory response and mineralized tissue formation (MTF) ability of PPL‐based CH formulations on rat molars after DPC. Methodology: This study consisted of six groups: CH with 1% PPL (CHPPL‐1); 3% PPL (CHPPL‐3); 5% PPL (CHPPL‐5); Dycal and NEX MTA Cement (N‐MTA) as the positive control, and no capping materials (NC). One hundred twenty maxillary first molar cavities were prepared on Wistar rats. After capping, all the cavities were restored with 4‐META/MMA‐TBB resin and pulpal responses were evaluated at days 1, 7, and 28. Kruskal–Wallis followed by Mann–Whitney U‐test was performed with a significance level of 0.05. Immunohistochemical expression of IL‐6, Nestin, and DMP‐1 was observed. Results: At day 1, CHPPL‐1, N‐MTA, and Dycal exhibited no to mild inflammation, whilst CHPPL‐3, CHPPL‐5, and NC showed mild to moderate inflammation, and the results were significantly different (p <.05). At day 7, mild to moderate inflammation was observed in CHPPL‐1, N‐MTA, and Dycal, whereas CHPPL‐3, CHPPL‐5, and NC exhibited moderate to severe inflammation. Significant differences were observed between CHPPL‐1 and N‐MTA with NC (p <.05), CHPPL‐1 and CHPPL‐3 with CHPPL‐5 and Dycal (p <.05), and CHPPL‐3 with N‐MTA (p <.05). A thin layer of mineralized tissue formation (MTF) was observed in all groups. At day 28, CHPPL‐1, Dycal, and N‐MTA showed no to mild inflammation, whilst CHPPL‐3, CHPPL‐5, and NC exhibited mild to severe inflammation, and statistically significant difference was detected (p <.05). CHPPL‐1, Dycal, and N‐MTA exhibited continuous MTF, whilst CHPPL‐3, CHPPL‐5, and NC had thicker and interrupted MTF. Significant differences were observed between CHPPL‐1, CHPPL‐3, and N‐MTA with NC group (p <.05). Variable expressions of IL‐6, Nestin, and DMP‐1 indicated differences in the materials' impact on odontoblast‐like cell formation and tissue mineralization. Conclusions: These findings suggest that CHPPL‐1 has the potential to minimize pulpal inflammation and promote MTF and had similar efficacy as MTA cement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cinchona alkaloid-derived sulfonamides and ester dimers containing chiral hyperbranched polymers have been successfully synthesized and applied as catalysts in asymmetric reactions. Several hyperbranched polymers derived from cinchona alkaloids, incorporating sulfonamides and esters, were synthesized through Mizoroki--Heck coupling polymerization. These polymers were subsequently applied in enantioselective Michael addition reactions. As the prepared polymers are not soluble in frequently used organic solvents, they act as efficient catalysts in the enantioselective reaction of β-ketoesters to nitroolefins, achieving up to 99% enantioselectivity with good yields. The insoluble property allows them to better satisfy "green chemistry" requirements and be used several times without losing the enantioselectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to identify novel biostimulatory compounds in boar seminal gel (SG), saliva and semen using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The bio-stimulatory effect of SG, SG + saliva and SG + semen on young boar for semen collection as well were employed to study bio-stimulatory effects on gilts and sows. Distilled water (DW) exposure was kept as control. SG, saliva and semen were screened for total 105, 96 and 89 compounds. The highest concentration was of alkanes followed by sugar alcohols, then hydrocarbons, amino acids and fatty acids. Elaidic acid was the novel compound identified in pigs. Significantly higher (p < 0.05) number of males got trained in exposure to SG (80%), SG + saliva (75%) and SG + semen (75%) than control (0%). The time (hrs) taken by young boars to get trained on exposure to combination of SG + saliva (244 ± 22.19) and SG + semen (216 ± 13.14) was lesser (p < 0.05) than SG (356 ± 61.85) alone. Interval (hrs) from initiation of exposure for exhibition of different sexual behaviour by males on exposure to SG, saliva and semen was lesser (p < 0.05) than control. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher number of females showed estrus response to exposure of SG (72.72%), SG + saliva (69.23%) and SG + semen (76.92%) than control (0). Interval (hrs) taken to exhibit estrus was shorter (p < 0.05) in females exposed to SG + saliva (201.88 ± 12.66), SG + semen (198.20 ± 9.42) than SG (262.14 ± 20.06) alone. Interval (hrs) for exhibition of different sexual behaviour by females on exposure to SG + saliva and SG + semen was lesser (p < 0.05) than control. In conclusion, novel compounds were identified in boar seminal gel, saliva and semen with biostimulatory properties have been identified in boar SG, saliva and semen. The combined exposure of SG with saliva and semen has more intense biostimulation effect than SG alone for training of young boars and estrus induction in gilts and sows. Such compounds biostimulatory effects can be exploited for augmenting reproductive efficiency in pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain tumors are critical neurological ailments caused by uncontrolled cell growth in the brain or skull, often leading to death. An increasing patient longevity rate requires prompt detection; however, the complexities of brain tissue make early diagnosis challenging. Hence, automated tools are necessary to aid healthcare professionals. This study is particularly aimed at improving the efficacy of computerized brain tumor detection in a clinical setting through a deep learning model. Hence, a novel thresholding-based MRI image segmentation approach with a transfer learning model based on contour (ContourTL-Net) is suggested to facilitate the clinical detection of brain malignancies at an initial phase. The model utilizes contour-based analysis, which is critical for object detection, precise segmentation, and capturing subtle variations in tumor morphology. The model employs a VGG-16 architecture priorly trained on the "ImageNet" collection for feature extraction and categorization. The model is designed to utilize its ten nontrainable and three trainable convolutional layers and three dropout layers. The proposed ContourTL-Net model is evaluated on two benchmark datasets in four ways, among which an unseen case is considered as the clinical aspect. Validating a deep learning model on unseen data is crucial to determine the model's generalization capability, domain adaptation, robustness, and real-world applicability. Here, the presented model's outcomes demonstrate a highly accurate classification of the unseen data, achieving a perfect sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV) of 100%, 98.60% specificity, 99.12% precision, 99.56% F 1 -score, and 99.46% accuracy. Additionally, the outcomes of the suggested model are compared with state-of-the-art methodologies to further enhance its effectiveness. The proposed solution outperforms the existing solutions in both seen and unseen data, with the potential to significantly improve brain tumor detection efficiency and accuracy, leading to earlier diagnoses and improved patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the settlement of Rohingya people in Cox's Bazar, national and international NGO s have undertaken initiatives such as trust-building and community relationships for establishing social cohesion between the Rohingyas and host communities. However, cohabitation between the two communities is far-behind, and social conflict between the two communities has been a reality for the host society. By applying multiple approaches – perception survey among the local people, focus group discussion (FGD) among the Rohingyas and key informant interviews, this article finds that Rohingya settlement has resulted many challenges such as scarcity of resources, competition over livelihood options, price hikes, decaying of the physical environment, and security complexities. These challenges have been a source of generating conflict instead of building social cohesion in Cox's Bazar. Survey results outline that local people are anxious about population growth, social unrest, illicit business and drugs, and potential political conflict. The FGD among the Rohingyas explores the uncertain future of the refugee, frustration over livelihood, health, and education for their children. Overall results highlight that social, economic, environmental and political changes in the post-settlement phase post-2017 have been a potential source of conflict. Analysis suggests that the conflict potential for the host society stemming from the Rohingya displaced population is significant enough that the host government and international organisations should consider actions, policies, and diplomatic actions to address the social tension and remedy the emergent problems in the area. Such measures include those that strengthen efforts at repatriation initiatives for the refugee population, and those that can ensure livelihood opportunities for them without compromising such opportunities for the host population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to identify novel biostimulatory compounds in boar seminal gel (SG), saliva and semen using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The bio-stimulatory effect of SG, SG + saliva and SG + semen on young boar for semen collection as well were employed to study bio-stimulatory effects on gilts and sows. Distilled water (DW) exposure was kept as control. SG, saliva and semen were screened for total 105, 96 and 89 compounds. The highest concentration was of alkanes followed by sugar alcohols, then hydrocarbons, amino acids and fatty acids. Elaidic acid was the novel compound identified in pigs. Significantly higher (p < 0.05) number of males got trained in exposure to SG (80%), SG + saliva (75%) and SG + semen (75%) than control (0%). The time (hrs) taken by young boars to get trained on exposure to combination of SG + saliva (244 ± 22.19) and SG + semen (216 ± 13.14) was lesser (p < 0.05) than SG (356 ± 61.85) alone. Interval (hrs) from initiation of exposure for exhibition of different sexual behaviour by males on exposure to SG, saliva and semen was lesser (p < 0.05) than control. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher number of females showed estrus response to exposure of SG (72.72%), SG + saliva (69.23%) and SG + semen (76.92%) than control (0). Interval (hrs) taken to exhibit estrus was shorter (p < 0.05) in females exposed to SG + saliva (201.88 ± 12.66), SG + semen (198.20 ± 9.42) than SG (262.14 ± 20.06) alone. Interval (hrs) for exhibition of different sexual behaviour by females on exposure to SG + saliva and SG + semen was lesser (p < 0.05) than control. In conclusion, novel compounds were identified in boar seminal gel, saliva and semen with biostimulatory properties have been identified in boar SG, saliva and semen. The combined exposure of SG with saliva and semen has more intense biostimulation effect than SG alone for training of young boars and estrus induction in gilts and sows. Such compounds biostimulatory effects can be exploited for augmenting reproductive efficiency in pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medicinal plants or their products are popular substitutes for antibiotics or other synthetic growth promoters for their beneficial effects and cost‐effectiveness. Clove (Cv) and tulsi (Ts) are rich in phytochemicals and are used to augment the growth performance of poultry. Objectives: The current investigation was carried out to evaluate the effects of Cv and Ts supplementation in drinking water on the morphologic and morphometric adaptations in the lymphoid organs. Methods: The experiment was conducted on 60 broiler chicks, divided into 4 homogenous groups (5 pens/group and 3 broilers/pen) named T0 (control), T1 (0.5% Cv and 2% Ts), T2 (1% Cv and 3% Ts) and T3 (1.5% Cv and 4% Ts). The treatments were administered from days 8 to 28. Lymphoid organs (thymus, spleen and bursa of Fabricius) were collected on days 14, 21 and 28 after sacrificing five broilers from each group. Results: The treatment groups had higher thymus and spleen weights on day 21, whereas the weights of the bursa of Fabricius were higher on days 14, 21 and 28. In the histomorphologic study, no noticeable difference in the histoarchitectures of the lymphoid organs was noticed. However, substantial differences in the cortico‐medullary ratio and the number of follicles in the thymus and bursa of Fabricius, respectively, were found in the histomorphometric investigation. Conclusion: The inclusion of Cv and Ts in drinking water augments the weight of lymphoid organs with histomorphometric adaptations that might improve the immune status in broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To obtain improved thermal performance of flat plate solar collectors, the effect of square and rectangular riser tubes of a flat plate collector (FPC) were numerically investigated and compared with circular riser tube FPC in the present study. For this purpose, a three-dimensional numerical model for FPC collectors has been developed and simulated in CFD software ANSYS FLUENT. Transient thermal performance analysis is carried out to find out the optimum geometrical configuration of the FPC riser tube. The numerical results indicated that using the square-shaped riser tube in FPC improves the collector's useful heat exchange rate as well as thermal efficiency as compared to the use of circular and rectangular riser tubes. There is a maximum 8.1% higher heat exchange rate of the collector with a square riser tube than a circular riser tube under the same operating conditions. The average efficiency of the collector with the circular tube is 65.95%, whereas the square tube has the highest efficiency of 70.44%. However, the pressure drops through the square and rectangular riser geometry are higher than the circular tube. By making a balance between enhanced heat exchange rate and increased pressure drop, the performance evaluation criterion was evaluated and the square-shaped riser tube having the highest value of 2.65 is better than the other configurations. The results clearly indicate that the collector's performance is notably influenced by the shape of the riser tube, with a square shape yielding superior performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thymus, bursa of Fabricius and spleen are the major lymphoid organs of avian species that plays a crucial role in their immunity. Though glucocorticoids are reportedly used as growth promoters, they also suppress the immune system. Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate the morphologic and morphometric adaptations in the lymphoid organs as well as the mortality rate in broilers in response to long‐term treatment with dexamethasone (DEX). Methods: A total of 80 one‐day‐old broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were randomly divided into four homogenous groups (control – C and treatment groups – T1, T2, and T3). The treatment groups received DEX at the rate of 3, 5, and 7 mg/kg commercial feed. Samples, i.e. thymus, bursa of Fabricius, and spleen, were collected on 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of the experiment. Relative weight of the organs was calculated on each sampling day. The tissues were then processed and stained with haematoxylin and eosin stain for morphological and morphometric study. Results: The relative weight of lymphoid organs was found substantially (p < 0.05) less in the DEX‐treated groups. Significant (p < 0.05) reduction in lobular size and the cortical‐medullary ratio was observed in the thymus of the DEX‐treated broilers. Follicular atrophy and massive depletion of lymphocytes were evident in the bursa of Fabricius. The mortality rate was also increased which was largely dependent on the dose and duration of DEX treatment. Conclusions: The study results indicate that DEX treatment can alter the morphology and morphometry of lymphoid organs which might result in severe immunosuppression and increased mortality rate in broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid system and hardware development of X-ray computed tomography (CT) technologies has been accompanied by equally exciting advances in image reconstruction algorithms. Of the two reconstruction algorithms, analytical and iterative, iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithms have become a clinically viable option in CT imaging. The first CT scanners in the early 1970s used IR algorithms, but lack of computation power prevented their clinical use. In 2009, the first IR algorithms became commercially available and replaced conventionally established analytical algorithms as filtered back projection. Since then, IR has played a vital role in the field of radiology. Although all available IR algorithms share the common mechanism of artifact reduction and/or potential for radiation dose reduction, the magnitude of these effects depends upon specific IR algorithms. IR reconstructs images by iteratively optimizing an objective function. The objective function typically consists of a data integrity term and a regularization term. Therefore, different regularization priors are used in IR algorithms. This paper will briefly look at the overall evolution of CT image reconstruction and the regularization priors used in IR algorithms. Finally, a discussion is presented based on the reality of various reconstruction methodologies at a glance to find the preferred one. Consequently, we will present anticipation towards future advancements in this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An extensive field study was made in subtropical hot humid climate of north-east India to identify the most influencing climatic and human-made environmental factors and their effects on hatchability of eggs and survivability of indigenous ducklings hatched through indigenous broody hen (chicken) managed under a backyard farming system. Hatchability and survivability ratio was estimated from 858 batches duck eggs recorded from 220 marginal/landless duck farmers over a period of 24 months. Statistical analysis by fitting fixed effect general linear models revealed that the ambient temperature and relative humidity were the most critical climatic factors that affect the hatchability ratio of duck eggs and survivability ratio of ducklings. Besides, the human-made factor was also found to be associated with variations of the hatchability and survivability performances of duck under broody hen incubation. Thus identification of these factors and their effects on the studied traits would be helpful to provide appropriate season-based management strategies for economic and sustainable duck production in rural backyard farming systems. The present finding could be a valuable insight for duck farmers not only in north-east India but also in other developing countries with a subtropical hot humid climate with prevailing backyard duck production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a dynamic and safe imaging technique in medical imaging. Recently, parallel MRI (pMRI) is widely used for accelerating conventional MRI. Both frequency and image domain-based reconstructions are the most attractive methods for generating the image from multi-channel k-space data. Compressed sensing (CS) is a recently used procedure to reduce the acquisition time of conventional MRI. This reduction is achieved by taking fewer measurements from the fully sampled k-space data. Therefore, applying the CS technique in pMRI is the most emerging way for further improving the acquisition time that is a tremendous research interest. However, as the phase encoding plane may be perpendicular or parallel to the coil elements plane, finding the exact domain for CS in pMRI reconstruction is a major challenging issue. In this work, the application of the CS technique in pMRI in both domains is investigated. Later some widely used methodologies are presented as the nonlinear reconstruction algorithm of CS in pMRI. Finally, a discussion is performed based on CS in pMRI to perceive the reality of different reconstruction algorithms at a glance for finding preferred methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work deals with the study on the optical absorption and photoluminescence spectra of a p-type organic semiconducting polymer, regioregular poly 3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl (P3HT) and the absorption spectra of an n-type fullerene-based small-gap fullerene-ethyl nipecotate (Fullerene-EN) and a non-fullerene-based polynaphthalene bithiophene (N2200) semiconducting materials. The band gap of P3HT, N2200, and small-gap fullerene-ethyl nipecotate are 2.42, 1.65, and 1.51 eV, respectively, calculated from experimental results through the Tauc equation. Active layers with blends of P3HT and small-gap fullerene-ethyl nipecotate and P3HT and N2200 have been used to fabricate bulk heterojunction (BHJ) structures. The P3HT:N2200 BHJ structure follows the current density versus voltage characteristics of a photovoltaic device with 0.28% power conversion efficiency, 1.58 mA/cm2 short-circuit current density, and 41% fill factor. However, the P3HT:small-gap fullerene-ethyl nipecotate structure does not show any photovoltaic J-V characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucocorticoids (GCs) play a critical function in neonatal lung growth and maturation though the long-term dose-dependent effects of GCs on lungs are still ambiguous. The purpose of the present study is to explore the morphologic and morphometric changes in broiler lungs in reaction to dietary GC. Day-old chicks (DOCs) were purchased and divided into four groups at random i.e. one control group (C) and three experimental groups (E1, E2, and E3). Commercial broiler feed was provided to both the control and experimental groups where the feed of the experimental groups contained GC, dexamethasone (DEX) at the rate of 3, 5, and 7 mg/kg in E1, E2, and E3 groups, respectively. Lung (left) samples were collected on days 7, 14, 21, and 28. After recording the gross morphologic and morphometric data, the tissue samples were processed for histological investigation. In the gross morphological study, congested lung with reddish to blackish discoloration was seen in experimental broilers. The gross morphometric study revealed a significant decrease in weight, length, and width of the lung. In the histomorphologic study, the lung of experimental broilers revealed vascular and parabronchial lumen congestion. Mild to the severe edematous lesion was also found evident along with the absence of distinguishable inter parabronchial septa. Degeneration of lung parenchyma with the appearance of lipid droplets, inflammatory cell infiltration, and fibrosis was seen to some extent. The histomorphometric investigation revealed a significant decrease in the diameter of the parabronchus as well as the thickness of the parabronchial wall. The study results suggest that dexamethasone may adversely alter the gross and histological characteristics of broiler lungs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has widely spread worldwide since 2020. Several countries have imposed lockdown or stay-at-home policies to prevent the infection. Bangladesh experienced a lockdown from March 2020 to May 2020, and internal travel was restricted. Such long and strict confinement may impact women's health. Herein, we aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's health by comparing their health status before and during the pandemic. We conducted a prospective longitudinal study in two zones in the Chhaygaon union, rural district Shariatpur, Bangladesh. The study population comprised non-pregnant women aged 15–49 years. We visited the household of all eligible women and invited them for health checkups. The survey staff examined their health status at the checkup camps and conducted questionnaire interviews. In total, 121 non-pregnant women received health checkups both from June 2019 to July 2019 and in October 2020, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, respectively. Compared with those during the 2019 health checkup, the medians of body mass index, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure were significantly higher (22.7 kg/m2 to 23.6 kg/m2; 110.0 mmHg to 111.0 mmHg; and 73.0 mmHg to 75.0 mmHg, respectively, p<0.05) during the 2020 health checkup. In contrast, urine glucose levels were significantly lower (10.1% to 3.4%, p = 0.021). The lack of physical activity and other inconvenience accumulation caused by the prolonged confinement might have affected their health status. This necessitates local health workers to promote physical activity to prevent health deterioration during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) plays a key role for plant life cycle. It is available in agricultural soils as the form of nitrate and ammonium (NH4+) where nitrate (NO3−) is a major nutrient. Plants are able to sense NO3− in their environment, allowing them to quickly respond to the dramatic fluctuations of its availability. As a main feature of plant autotrophy, assimilation of inorganic N is not only of fundamental interest to the crop, but also a crucial factor in crop productivity. Furthermore, over the last couple of years, N sensing has been shown to be affected by different external factors, which act as local signals to trigger systemic signaling coordinated by mobile signals in plants body. During recent years, a breakthrough arising from the improved knowledge is a better understanding of NO3− integration and hormone signaling pathways of plants that explains the extraordinary developmental plasticity of NO3− response. This review highlights the novel aspect of N responsive sensors, transporters, and signaling molecules in plants with a brief introduction on the metabolic pathways and discusses their potential roles in N sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucocorticoids (GCs) cause excess fat accumulation, which leads to fertility dysfunction in broilers. The study investigated alterations in the morphology and morphometry of the testes of broilers in response to GC and dexamethasone (DEX). Male day-old chicks were randomly divided into a control group and three experimental groups (E1, E2, and E3). The control group was fed a commercial broiler ration. The experimental groups were fed a commercial broiler ration containing GC (i.e. DEX 3, 5, and 7 mg/kg, respectively). The testes were collected and stained with haematoxylin and eosin to count the number of testicular seminiferous tubules. An increase in the seminiferous tubule count was initially seen, which declined as both the age of the broilers and the dose of DEX increased. Morphometric measurements, i.e., the testicular capsule thickness, seminiferous tubule diameter, and seminiferous epithelium height, were performed. The initial thickening of the testicular capsule was evident. There was a depletion of the interstitial (Leydig) cell population in the experimental groups with the age and increased with the dose advancement. The diameter of the seminiferous tubules and testicular capsule thickness remained upregulated in the treatment groups with the increased dose of DEX. The initial height of the seminiferous epithelium increased in the experimental groups of broilers. The study suggests that DEX greatly alters the morphological architecture of broiler testes; as a result, it could be said that DEX has the effect on the infertility of the broiler by affecting the morphology as well as the functionality of the testes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the dental pulp response to a novel mineral trioxide aggregate containing phosphorylated pullulan (MTAPPL) in rats after direct pulp capping. Methods: Ninety‐six cavities were prepared in the maxillary first molars of 56 male Wistar rats. The dental pulps were intentionally exposed and randomly divided into four groups according to the application of pulp capping materials: MTAPPL; phosphorylated pullulan (PPL); a conventional MTA (Nex‐Cem MTA, NCMTA; positive control); and Super‐Bond (SB; negative control). All cavities were restored with SB and observed for pulpal responses at 1‐, 3‐, 7‐ and 28‐day intervals using a histological scoring system. Statistical analysis was performed using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U‐test with Bonferroni's correction, and the level of significance was set at 0.05. DMP1 and CD34 antigen were used to evaluate odontoblast differentiation and pulpal vascularization, respectively. Results: On day 1, mild inflammatory cells were present in MTAPPL and NCMTA groups; fewer inflammatory cells were present in the PPL, whereas SB was associated with a mild‐to‐moderate inflammatory response. A significant difference was observed between PPL and SB (p <.05). No mineralized tissue deposition was observed. On day 3, moderate‐to‐severe inflammatory cells were present in PPL and SB, whereas MTAPPL and NCMTA had a mild inflammatory response. Initial mineralized tissue deposition was observed in the NCMTA, MTAPPL and SB. A significant difference was observed between MTAPPL and PPL (p <.05). On day 7, a thin layer of mineralized tissue was observed in all tested groups with no or mild inflammatory response. On day 28, no inflammatory response was observed in MTAPPL, whereas NCMTA, PPL and SB had mild inflammatory responses. A significant difference was observed between MTAPPL and SB (p <.05). Complete mineralized tissue barrier formation was observed in MTAPPL, NCMTA and PPL with no significant difference (p >.05). SB exhibited incomplete mineralized tissue barriers, significantly different from NCMTA, MTAPPL and PPL (p <.05). The staining with CD34 was positive in all the groups on all observation days. Conclusion: The favourable pulpal responses and induction of mineralized tissue formation associated with MTAPPL indicate its potential application as a direct pulp capping material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The histo-morphology and biometry of liver, lung and kidney of goat were studied. The obtained samples were divided into two groups. One set of tissue was processed for paraffin embedding after formalin fixation. The other set was indigenously plastinated. The plastinates were embedded with paraffin without deplastination. Both the non plastinated and plastinated tissues were sectioned and processed for routine staining. The tissues were examined under light microscope for histological architectures and quantitatively assessed the biometric parameters. The non plastinated and plastinated samples yielded mostly similar histological architectures. But plastinated liver showed alterations and artifacts with enlargement of the central vein and hepatic sinusoidal space. Plastinated lung revealed enlarged alveolar sac. Lack of nuclear clarity was observed for all the plastinated samples. The plastinated kidney revealed compactness of the cellular structures and shrinkage induced artifacts with clear renal corpuscles structure and obvious glomerular capsule (Bowman's capsule). The biometric measurements of central vein of liver, alveolar sac of lung, glomerulus and glomerular space of kidney of both plastinated and non plastinated tissue were also performed using calibrated stage micrometer. Comparison was done between the biometric data for both plastinated and non plastinated tissue. No significant difference was found in the obtained biometric data of liver and lung. Only a significant difference was observed between the width of glomerulus of non plastinated kidney and width of glomerulus of plastinated kidney. The morphological and biometric study of non plastinated and plastinated organs of goat can conclude that histological slides can be made from indigenously plastinated organs with well preserved histological architectures of the tissues with some rare exceptions. Plastination does not affect the biometric characteristics of the organs. In addition, the comparative morphologic and biometric study of plastinated and non plastinated organs of goat will be useful in education and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is increasingly contributing to the disease burden in South Asia. This review will summarize the prevalence and risk factors of COPD in South Asia and the interventions regarding COPD that have been introduced in South Asian countries. Method: This scoping review will primarily follow Arksey and O'Malley's six steps of scoping review methodology. Additionally, it will follow the recent upgradation of the scoping review methodology by Levac et al., and the Joanna Briggs Institute. Research questions were already identified at the beginning of the proposed scoping review. Electronic databases will be searched (PubMed, Web of Science, and ProQuest) using search terms. Studies will be screened independently by two reviewers through a two-stage screening process using pre-developed inclusion criteria for this scoping review. Eligible studies will be abstracted and charted in a standardised form. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) will be used to report the result. Additionally, feedback from South Asia's experienced COPD researchers on the final literature list will be collected for gap identification in literature search. Two independent reviewers will assess the quality of each included study's design using the Joanna Briggs Institute's tool. Discussion: The proposed scoping review will map the evidence on COPD in South Asia through literature review, and it will focus on prevalence, risk factors, and interventions. This review will contribute to the advancement of research on COPD and will be beneficial for policy-makers, public health specialists, and clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we consider the group of symmetries of the Sulphur molecule (S8 ) which is a finite point group of order 16 denote by D16 generated by two elements having the presentation {u,v/u² = v8 = (uv)² = 1} and find the complete set of genera (g ≥ 2) of Compact Riemann surfaces on which D16acts as a group of automorphisms as follows: D16, the group of symmetries of the sulphur (S8) molecule of order 16 acts as an automorphism group of a compact Riemann surfaces of genus g ≥ 2 if and only if there are integers λ and μ such that λ ≤1 and μ≥1 and g = λ + 8 μ( ≥ 2), μ ≥ | ≥ |. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of the present study was to do an overview of the arch dimension for various populations. Also, to evaluate the various type of measurement methods and sexual disparities. Two reviewers independently performed the selection process and the quality of studies was assessed. Method: Studies published form January 2000 until October 2015 were identified in electronic databases: Pubmed, Scopus, Science direct, Web of Science, Medpilot and Medline using keywords. Criteria used included: observational studies, Arch size measured, Permanent dentition, Arch dimension investigated via plaster and digital dental models, measurement via calipers and computers software's. Result: The forest plots showed the continuous trend for the greater arch dimension for male in relation to female. The current overview showed the arch dimension and its disparities for various populations. Conclusion: The various methods to assess arch dimension should be carefully considered and well conducted as part of the clinical assessment of orthodontic treatment, since arch dimension could influence the diagnosis and treatment planning of orthodontist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different extenders viz. Tris citric acid fructose egg yolk (TCFEY), Tris citric acid glucose egg yolk (TCGEY), Egg yolk citrate fructose (EYCF) and Egg yolk citrate glucose (EYCG) on the quality of ram spermatozoa during preservation at 4°C. Semen samples showing more than 3+ mass motility and 70% progressive motility were pooled and subsequently divided into four aliquots. Each aliquot was extended separately in four different extenders viz. TCFEY, TCGEY, EYCF and EYCG and stored at 4°C up to 72h. The quality of spermatozoa on the basis of percentage of sperm motility, live sperm, morphological abnormalities, intact acrosome and hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST) reacted spermatozoa was evaluated immediately after extension in particular extenders (0 h), 24 h, 48 h and 72 h after preservation at 4°C. The percent sperm motility was significantly (P<0.01) higher for TCFEY and TCGEY than EYCF and EYCG at 72 h of preservation at 4°C. The percent HOST reacted spermatozoa and intact acrosomes were significantly (P<0.01) higher and morphological abnormalities were significantly (P<0.01) lower for Tris based fructose extender than other three extenders at 72 h at 4°C. In conclusion, Tris citric acid fructose egg yolk (TCFEY) was found the best in maintaining the quality of ejaculated ram spermatozoa during preservation for 72 h at 4°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an epoch of the growing risk of antibiotic resistance, there is a dire need to establish an effective novel feeding practice for broiler nutrition as an alternative to antibiotics. Hence, the aim of the current study was to evaluate the impact of clove powder and tulsi extract on the growth performance, gut morphologic and morphometric indices, and cecal microbial status of broiler, as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters (AGP s). Sixty day-old chicks of Cobb-500 strain were randomly divided into 4 groups, each having 15 birds. Chicks of the control group (T0) were fed commercial broiler feed with no additional supplementation. The treatment groups were offered commercial broiler feed and received clove powder and tulsi extract with drinking water at the rate of 0.5% + 2% (T1), 1% + 3% (T2), and 1.5% + 4% (T3), respectively. Results showed a nonlinear relationship with the dosage of clove and tulsi. All the growth parameters substantially (P < 0.05) improved in T2 while T1 and T3 showed no significant improvement compared to T0. The final body weight was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in T2. Giblet and offal weights showed no noticeable differences except in the intestine and heart where intestine weight markedly (P < 0.05) decreased in T3 and heart weight significantly (P < 0.05) increased in T1 and T2. Clove and tulsi supplementation substantially improved the villus height and villus surface area of the small intestine in T2 while the large intestine remained mostly unaffected by the treatment. Cecal microbial status significantly improved in all the treatment groups having increased (P < 0.05) Lactobacillus spp. count and decreased (P < 0.05) E. coli count compared to T0. Based on the aforementioned findings, it can be concluded that the combination of clove and tulsi can improve the growth performance and gut health of broilers which is largely dose-dependent and might be supplied as a potential alternative to AGPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different antioxidants on the quality of ram spermatozoa. For this purpose, ejaculates were collected from six adult healthy rams and extended with Tris egg yolk fructose extender without (Control) or with different antioxidants like ascorbic acid (4.5 mg/ml), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, 1 mM) and taurine (25 mM) and stored up to 72 h at 4 °C. The quality of spermatozoa on the basis of percentage of sperm motility, live sperm, morphological abnormalities, intact acrosome and hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST) reacted spermatozoa was evaluated at 0, 24, 48 and 72 h of preservation at 4 °C. The percent sperm motility was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in BHT and taurine and significantly (P < 0.01) lower in ascorbic acid than the control at 72 h of preservation. The percent live sperm did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) amongst the extenders containing different antioxidants and the control. The morphological abnormalities were significantly (P < 0.01) lower in BHT and taurine than ascorbic acid and control during preservation up to 72 h at 4 °C. The percent HOST reacted spermatozoa was significantly (P < 0.01) higher for BHT and significantly lower (P < 0.01) for ascorbic acid than control. The percent intact acrosome was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in all the extenders containing antioxidants than control. In conclusion, BHT and Taurine were found to improve the quality of ejaculated ram spermatozoa during preservation for 72 h at 4 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R0 space in L-topological spaces are defined and studied. The authors give eight definitions of R0 space in L-topological spaces and discuss certain relationship among them. They showed that all of these satisfy 'good extension' property. Moreover, some of their other properties are obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of washing on the post-thaw quality of ram cauda epididymal spermatozoa (P1: Unwashed, P2: Washed). Materials and Methods: Fresh testicles of adult healthy slaughtered rams were collected and transported to the laboratory in an ice chest, where they were weighed, and cauda epididymides were separated. These cauda epididymides were used for recovery of spermatozoa in tris-citric acid fructose buffer by incision method. Spermatozoa samples showing ≥70% progressive motility were pooled and processed further. The mean values (±standard error) of various parameters such as the percentage of sperm motility, live sperm, intact acrosome, and hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST) rea cted spermatozoa were recorded. Results: In this experiment, the percent sperm motility, live spermatozoa, and intact acrosome both at pre-freeze and postthaw were higher (p>0.05) in P1 than P2. However, the post-thaw percent HOST reacted spermatozoa was slightly higher (p>0.05) for P2 than P1. Conclusion: Washing of cauda epididymal spermatozoa has no significant adverse effect on the quality during cryopreservation. Therefore, this processing method can be applied wherever necessary before the extension of the recovered spermatozoa sample in different ram extenders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was to construct seven concepts of T2-space in L-topological spaces. After giving the fundamental definitions, the authors established some relations among them. Further, the authors proved that all these definitions satisfy 'good extension' property. Finally, it is shown that these definitions are hereditary, productive and projective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents a study on designing and implementing a robust key management scheme for lightweight block ciphers in Internet of Things (IoT) networks. Key management is a critical concern for IoT devices due to their limited resources and susceptibility to security threats. The proposed scheme utilises partial key pre-distribution to achieve lightweight and secure key management. The protocol's security has been analysed against various attacks, demonstrating its resistance. Performance evaluation results indicate that the proposed key management technique is suitable for resource-constraint IoT networks, as it reduces communication overhead, power consumption, and storage space requirements. The methodology employed in this research includes designing and implementing the proposed key management scheme and conducting scenario-based analyses of its functionality. The results affirm that the proposed solution effectively ensures secure communication in IoT networks. Overall, this research contributes to developing a secure and efficient key management scheme for lightweight block ciphers in IoT networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth promoters are added with broiler feed to boost the overall feed efficiency and growth rate. The current study investigated the effect of dexamethasone (DEX)—a commonly used growth promoter—on the broiler growth rate, meat quality, and muscle biology. Four homogenous groups (20 chicks/group) of broiler one-day-old chicks were fed commercial broiler feed where the treatment groups received 3, 5, and 7 mg/kg of DEX with their diet for 28 d. Feed consumption and body weight were monitored on a daily basis. Muscle samples were collected on 7, 14, 21, and 28 d of the experiment to investigate meat quality and muscular biology. The residue of DEX in meat was detected using thin-layer chromatography. We observed that DEX had substantially decreased (P < 0.05) feed intake, feed efficiency, and overall weight gain in the broiler. While the weight of breast and thigh meat was decreased, the relative meat weight (meat/body weight) was increased significantly in chicks fed DEX. Simultaneously, body fat decreased while the percentage of fat increased significantly (P < 0.05) in the DEX groups. Contrariwise, DEX improved the investigated meat quality parameters with the potential threat of accumulation of DEX residue in the meat at a high dose (7 mg/kg). We also observed that DEX significantly increased the number of myofibers and decreased the cross-sectional area of myofibers. Based on these findings, we conclude that DEX reduces feed intake, feed efficiency, and growth rate, but might improve meat quality with a potential risk of residual DEX accumulation if fed at a high dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Forty-one pregnant cows at 240 days of gestation were selected from the cattle herd at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India. The cows were critically observed daily during the periparturient period until 45 days postpartum. The prepartum sampling day was fixed on the basis of AI date supported by the external signs of the animals approaching parturition. Blood sampling was done for each experimental animal on 15 days prepartum (−15 d), calving day (0 d), 15 days (15 d), and 30 days (30 d) postpartum, and thorough gynecological examinations were performed on 0 d, 15 d, 30 d, and 45 d for diagnosis of postpartum reproductive diseases like retained placenta (ROP), clinical metritis (CM), clinical endometritis, cervicitis, and delayed involution of the uterus. The blood serum was used for estimation of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 10 (IL-10). Determintaion of IL-10 concentration in serum was done by using a commercially available bovine-specific ELISA kit. The IL-10 concentration (pg/mL) was significantly (P < 0.01) higher for ROP (1956.96 ± 325.30) and CM (2283.01 ± 326.82) than normal cows (827.19 ± 127.11) at 15 days before calving. The values for IL-10 was also significantly (P < 0.05) higher for cows with ROP and CM than for normal cows at 0 d and 15 d postpartum. However, the values for IL-10 were significantly (P < 0.05) higher for cows with clinical endometritis (1847.83 ± 539.38) than for normal cows (770.75 ± 29.22) at 30 d postpartum. The concentration of IL-10 was lower (P > 0.05) in cows with delayed involution of uterus than other groups of cows at all days of the periparturient period. The cytokine level in cows with delayed involution of the uterus was 328.906 ± 107.19, 263.08 ± 84.92, 415.26 ± 102.14, and 386.28 ± 111.11 on −15 d, 0 d, 15 d, and 30 d, respectively. According to the results of this study it can be concluded that increased serum concentration of IL-10 at 15 d prepartum was observed in cows that developed ROP and CM and remained significantly higher until 15 d postpartum. Therefore, this cytokine might be used as a prognostic marker to identify the cows that are going to develop ROP and CM. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Hybrid nanocomposites of polystyrene (PS) and TiO2 were prepared by the facile surface thiol-lactam initiated radical polymerization (TLIRP). At first, the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles was modified by 3-mercaptopropyl-trimethoxysilane to prepare TiO2-SH. Subsequently, a radical polymerization of styrene was accomplished in the presence of TiO2-SH and butyrolactam to afford PS-g-TiO2 nanocomposites. The nanocomposites were investigated by 1H-NMR, FT-IR, GPC and XPS. The morphology of the nanocomposites was captured on TEM images, showing the encapsulation of TiO2 with PS. The TGA data suggest that the thermal stability of PS was enhanced upon inclusion of TiO2 nanoparticles. The dispersability of TiO2 nanoparticles was improved significantly after functionalization of PS chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(methylmethacrylate-co-methacrylic acid) were covalently wrapped onto TiO2 nanoparticles through surface thiol-lactam initiated radical polymerization via grafting from approach. Initially, the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles was modified by (3-mercapto)propyl trimethoxysilane to get thiol functionalized TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2-SH). A radical polymerization of methylmethacrylate and methacrylic acid was subsequently conducted to afford chemically bonded copolymer with TiO2 nanoparticles by employing two component initiating system consisting of TiO2-SH and butyrolactam. The TiO2 nanocomposites were identified by taking advantage of FT-IR, XPS, and EDX. The physical structure of the nanocomposites was studied by using XRD. The morphology of the nanocomposites was investigated by TEM and SEM analyses. TGA scan showed that the inclusion of TiO2 nanoparticles improved the thermal stability of the copolymer to a certain extent. Additionally, dynamic laser light scattering measurement of the TiO2 nanocomposites was carried out in order to get the size distribution of nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The block copolymer thin films were prepared by spin casting micellar solutions of poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(1H,1H dihydroperflurooctyl methacrylate)(PEO5k-b-PFOMA22k) in chloroform with or without gold salts. Upon fluorinated solvent vapor annealing, the disordered morphology of as-casted PEO5k-b-PFOMA22k thin films was changed to the phase inverted ordered morphology of spherical PEO cores in PFOMA continuous phase. The phase inversion strategy of the solvent annealing was found to enhance the long-range positional ordering of the thin films. The results suggest that an organized pattern of gold nanoparticles could be afforded inside the PEO domains of the hybrid thin films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid composites from rayon fibers (∼2–5 cm size) and polypropylene (PP) were fabricated by using an extruder. Fibre content of the composite was varied from 5–30% by weight and physico-mechanical properties of the composites were measured. Surface morphology as observed by SEM showed good interface adhesion between rayon and PP matrix. Furthermore inclusion of rayon (up to 15% fiber inclusion) in the composite increased tensile, bending and hardness properties. As the fiber content in the composite increased more than 15%, physico-mechanical properties decreased due to the decrease of fiber matrix adhesion. The change of tensile properties due to environmental aging was carried out by keeping the composite under soil for 1 month and tensile properties were measured periodically. The aging result suggests that composites retained about 75% of its original tensile and bending strength even after 1 month soil burial. The modified fibers were also used for the study. As such the fibers were treated with vinyl-trimethyoxysilane and methanol solution and irradiated under UV before being used with PP in extruder. The results showed retardation of the physico-mechanical properties for composites obtained from irradiated rayon fibers than the composites fabricated from non irradiated rayon fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

One hundred and fifty soil samples collected from different crop fields in southern Ontario, Canada were screened to obtain microorganisms capable of transforming deoxynivalenol (DON) to de-epoxy DON (dE-DON). Microbial DON to dE-DON transformation (i.e. de-epoxydation) was monitored by using liquid chromatography-ultraviolet-mass spectrometry (LC-UV-MS). The effects of growth substrates, temperature, pH, incubation time and aerobic versus anaerobic conditions on the ability of the microbes to de-epoxydize DON were evaluated. A mixed microbial culture from one composite soil sample showed 100% DON to dE-DON biotransformation in mineral salts broth (MSB) after 144 h of incubation. Treatments of the culture with selective antibiotics followed an elevated temperature (50°C) for 1.5 h considerably reduced the microbial diversity. Partial 16S-rRNA gene sequence analysis of the bacteria in the enriched culture indicated the presence of at least six bacterial genera, namely Serratia, Clostridium, Citrobacter, Enterococcus, Stenotrophomonas and Streptomyces. The enriched culture completely de-epoxydized DON after 60 h of incubation. Bacterial de-epoxydation of DON occurred at pH 6.0-7.5, and a wide array of temperatures (12-40°C). The culture showed rapid de-epoxydation activity under aerobic conditions compared to anaerobic conditions. This is the first report on microbial DON to dE-DON transformation under aerobic conditions and moderate temperatures. The culture could be used to detoxify DON contaminated feed and might be a potential source for gene(s) for DON de-epoxydation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jute fabrics such as reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), and a mixture of PVC and PP matrices-based composites (50 wt% fiber) were prepared by compression molding. Tensile strength (TS), bending strength (BS), tensile modulus (TM), and vbending modulus (BM) of jute fabrics' reinforced PVC composite (50 wt% fiber) were found to be 45 MPa, 52 MPa, 0.8 GPa, and 1.1 GPa, respectively. The effect of incorporation of PP on the mechanical properties of jute fabrics' reinforced PVC composites was studied. It was found that the mixture of 60% PP and 40% PVC matrices based composite showed the best performance. TS, BS, TM, and BM for this composite were found to be 65 MPa, 70 MPa, 1.42 GPa, and 1.8 GPa, respectively. Degradation tests of the composites for up to six months were performed in a soil medium. Thermo-mechanical properties of the composites were also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: 3-Alkyl-5-phenyl-3H-[1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidin-7(6H)-ones were prepared by nitrosative cyclization of the appropriate 5,6-diamino-2-phenylpyrimidin-4(3H)-ones with nitrous acid and were subjected to regioselective alkylation with several alkylating agents in aprotic solvent at different temperature. Simultaneous 6-N- and 7-O-alkylation were observed and the regioselectivity varied remarkably with size and shape of the alkylating agents as well as with the reaction temperature. Similarly, N- and O-alkylation as well as selectivity was also observed in the case of 2-phenyl-9-propyl-9H-purin-6(1H)-one. Some of the synthesized compounds showed moderate antiviral and antitumor activities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Computer is a part and parcel of our daily life. It is being widely used at homes, offices, schools and industries. It is now an important issue to save user program and data as well as hardware and software of the personal computer (PC) itself from damage and corruption due to sudden power failure. This paper presents the solution of the problem. A graphical user interface (GUI) has been developed that monitors the status of the power supply of the PC. Whenever power goes out, it saves all the files that are opened and initiates auto-shutdown of the PC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A total of 18 pooled semen samples collected from 4 healthy crossbred (Beetal×Assam Local) bucks, twice weekly for a period of 12 weeks, were processed via three processing methods, viz. Method I (holding after washing: semen sample was washed twice, extended, held for 0, 1, 3 and 5h and preserved), Method II (washing after holding: semen sample held for 0, 1, 3 and 5h, washed twice, extended and preserved) and Method III (holding of undiluted semen: semen sample held for 0, 1, 3 and 5h, extended and preserved). An isotonic Tris buffer was used to wash the spermatozoa with the aid of centrifugation at 3000rotations per minute (rpm) for 10min. A Tris–citric acid–fructose–egg yolk extender was used to extend the semen processed with all three processing methods and preserved at 5°C up to 72h. Holding of semen at 24°C in each processing method caused deterioration of the semen quality during preservation, as the holding time increased from 0 (without holding), 1, 3 and 5h. The initial sperm motility declined from 85.8 to 71.7% in Method I, from 85.8 to 21.7% in Method II and from 84.2 to 45.0% in Method III, as the holding time increased from 0 to 5h. The corresponding values were 66.7 and 49.2% for Method I, 66.7 and 8.0% for Method II and 42.5 and 25.8% for Method III, following 72h of preservation. The percentage of live sperm and intact acrosomes also showed a similar decreasing trend as the holding time increased from 0 to 5h in all processing methods as revealed in percentage of sperm motility. Washing of spermatozoa without a holding period maintained significantly higher sperm motility (66.7%), live sperm counts (83.0%) and incidence of intact acrosomes (79.3%) following 72h at preservation, compared to the corresponding values (42.5, 65.2 and 73.3% for sperm motility, live sperm counts and intact acrosomes, respectively) recorded in unwashed semen without a holding period. The values recorded for washed semen without holding were also significantly higher than for semen held for 1, 3 and 5h in all the three processing methods following 72h of preservation. This study revealed that the holding of semen caused deterioration of the spermatozoa, whereas, washing without holding had a beneficial effect on the viability of spermatozoa in maintaining its storage ability for up to 72h of preservation at refrigeration temperature (5°C). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The purpose of this study is to estimate the fertility parameters of Bangladesh using 1961 census. Age specific fertility rates (ASFRs), total fertility rate (TFR), gross reproduction rate (GRR) and net reproduction rate (NRR) have been estimated. The cross sectional data of ASFRs, its forward cumulative distribution and proportion of married women in the childbearing ages follow polynomial models. On the other hand, female population in the reproductive ages follows simple linear regression model. The cross-validity prediction power (CVPP) technique has been used to check the validity of these models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The threatened stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis is a nutritionally valuable food in Asian countries but its natural populations have declined due to over-exploitation, habitat loss and pollution, thus deserving high conservation importance for the remaining isolated, wild populations of H. fossilis in Asian countries. The results would be useful for the protection of the presence of endemic species and sustainable fisheries in the lake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mullet Rhinomugil corsula is a threatened fish of the family Mugilidae and used as food fish in Asian countries but its natural populations have de- clined due to over-exploitation and various ecological changes in its natural habitats leading to an alarming condition and deserving high conservation importance. This paper recommends measures for the conservation of the remnant isolated wild populations of R. corsula in Asian countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The threatened Reba carp Cirrhinus reba is one of the foods high in nutritional value in Asian countries, including Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan. However, natural populations have been declined due to overexploitation and various ecological changes in its natural habitats leading to an alarming condition and deserving high conservation importance. This paper recommends actions for the conservation of the remaining isolated population of C. reba in Asian countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present experiment was designed for estrus induction in post-partum anestrus cattle. A total of 120 cows were examined for reproductive status, and 30 were incorporated in induction, including 24 anestrus and 6 normal cyclic cows. The cows were assigned to 5 groups (6 animals per group). The group-1 cows were induced using Ovsynch protocol, while group-2 cows were inserted TRIU-B (958 mg progesterone) intra-vaginal and were inseminated at a fixed time. The group-3 cows were supplemented with a standard chelated mineral mixture of 40 g per-oral daily for 45 days and were inseminated on observed estrus. Group-4 included normal cyclic untreated cows inseminated at estrus. The group-5 included untreated anestrus control cows. Estrus induction response was 100% in groups 1 and 2, 66.66%, and 0.00% in groups 3 and 5, respectively. The conception rate in groups 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 were 33.33%, 50.00%, 75.00%, 83.33% and 0.00%, respectively. The mean serum progesterone in different groups increased non-significantly from days 0 to 21 post- insemination. All groups' mean serum calcium increased significantly from day 0 to day 21. However, the mean serum phosphorus showed no such significant differences between and within the groups. It was noticed that the overall Ca:P ratio was disturbed (Ca being on the lower side) in the animals under study, which might be attributed to the animals' anestrus condition. In conclusion, the Ovsynch, TRIU-B, and standard mineral mixture proved useful for induction of estrus and ovulation and enhancement of pregnancy rate in post-partum anestrus cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First time electrochemical characterization of an antibiotic hybrid compound. • Cip-Tob oxidation is an adsorption-controlled process at bare GCEs. • Cip-Tob oxidation is pH independent, showing its pertinence for onsite monitoring. • LOD and LOQ values were determined. Electrochemical sensing of antibiotics is important to assess environmental contamination. Due to the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria alternative medication, such as hybrid drug compounds are being developed. The present study reports a comprehensive electrochemical characterization of the antibiotic hybrid ciprofloxacin-tobramycin. The electrochemical behaviour of the hybrid was monitored by cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry, identifying a well-defined oxidation behaviour. Levels of detection and quantification were determined at bare glassy carbon electrodes. This is the first electrochemical characterization of an antibiotic hybrid drug, providing information about detection parameters and conditions necessary for the efficient electrochemical sensing of hybrid compounds in vitro and in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the color matching, light transmittance, and reflectance characteristics of the novel flowable resin composite OCF-001 (OCF). Methods: Fifty-four resin composite molds were made with simulated class I cavities of A2, A3, and A4 shades by filling the rubber mold interspace with Estelite Sigma Quick (ESQ), Gracefil Putty (GP) and Filtek Supremme Ultra (FSU). After applying the adhesive, three different flowable resin composites (n = 6), OCF, Gracefil LoFlo (GLF), and Supreme Ultra Flowable (SUF), were used to fill the cavities. A colorimeter was used to measure the color parameters (CIEDE2000). The color measurements were taken immediately and after 28 days. Data were analyzed using the nonparametric Kruskal–Wallis (α = 0.05) and Wilcoxon tests. The light transmittance and reflection characteristics were measured with a black background using a spectrophotometer under D65 illumination. Results: The ΔE00, and ΔC of OCF was lower than other tested materials in A2 and A3 shades both immediately and after 28 days. OCF showed the highest transmittance characteristic, and a relatively stable reflectance curve in all the wavelengths. Conclusions: OCF showed better shade matching with the surrounding shades of A2 and A3, a relative uniform reflectance and higher light transmission properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The removal or modification of smear layers that cover the dentin is critical to allow the penetration of adhesive molecules and to ensure a strong bond between resin and dentin. Aiming to establish a model for clinically-relevant dentin-bond testing, we evaluated the effects of smear layers created by abrasives having similar coarseness (180-grit SiC paper; fine-grit diamond bur) and application modes (single application; double application) on the microtensile bond strengths (µTBS) of two currently available universal adhesives (G-Premio Bond; Scotchbond Universal Adhesive) and a two-step self-etch adhesive (Clearfil Megabond 2). Sixty extracted human third molars were used for the μTBS test. Data were analyzed by three-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). Fracture modes were determined using stereomicroscopy. An additional 24 third molars were prepared for observation of the resin–dentin interface by TEM and adhesive-smear layer interaction by SEM. μTBS was significantly affected by the adhesives and their application modes (p < 0.001), implying that the double application of universal adhesives should be recommended to improve their performance. The effect of smear layers was not significant (p > 0.05), indicating that 180-grit SiC papers could be used to prepare dentin as a substitute for fine-grit diamond burs for dentin-bond testing in laboratory settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]