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Nanofluids are a very productive etymology of intensifying the process of heat and mass transport systems linked with the industrial and thermal engineering systems. Nanomaterials have effective thermal properties and various applications in our daily life like in heat transfer, electronic cooling systems, energy production and biomedicine and also in the food industry. Keeping the entire motivating potential ramifications of nanoparticles in mind, this work is visualized in the mathematical model developed to show the heat and mass transport behavior of swimming motile organisms in the existence of the magnetic field, heat conduction source, thermal radiation, chemical processes and viscous dissipation. The flow of mass and heat transport under consideration is governed by nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) transformed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by implementing an eminent method called similarity transform and then numerical results obtained through MATLAB inbuilt package 'bvp4c'. Numerical solution is visualized through the comparison of Casson fluid results with Newtonian fluid. The impact of numerous nondimensional parameters of temperature, heat transfer, velocity and concentration profiles involved in governing equations is debated and visualized graphically. Furthermore, the effects of parameters and local Nusselt number, motile organism's number, Biot number, Sherwood number, thermal radiation and microorganism concentration are elaborated through graphical representation. From these results, we clearly see that the velocity profile shows a decrement by raising the values of Buoyancy ratio Nr and Bioconvection Rayleigh number Nc, thermal profile depicted propagation by incrementing the values of Biot and radiation variables, concentration profile decreases by incrementing Lewis parameter Le and microorganisms profile revealed an increase and decrease by the presence of magnetic M and bioconvection Lewis variable Lb, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work reported here deals with fabricating iron oxide nanoparticles incorporated polyvinyl alcohol nanocomposite films via the solution‐casting green route, characterized using various characterization techniques. X‐ray diffraction analysis shows interaction of nanoparticles with the polyvinyl alcohol matrix, scanning electron microscopy shows surface morphology of crack‐free films, energy dispersive spectroscopy indicates elemental purity, tensiometer analysis shows changing behavior of hydrophilic to hydrophobic, thermogravimetric analysis shows improved thermal stability, ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy shows tunable optical properties, and frequency response analysis shows improved electrical properties. A small incorporation (1 wt. %) of iron oxide nanoparticles has induced significant alternations in structural, wetting, thermal, optical, and electrical properties of the polyvinyl alcohol‐based nanocomposite films. Results showed notable changes in the structural phases, water contact angle (39.5° to 97.7°), optical absorption edge (5.12 eV to 4.84 eV), indirect band gap (4.99 eV to 4.68 eV), direct bandgap (5.41 eV to 5.21 eV), and band tail (0.57 eV to 0.89 eV) from native polyvinyl alcohol to polyvinyl alcohol/iron oxide nanocomposite films. Enhancements were observed in refractive indices, optical conductivity, optical dielectric loss, thermal stability, dielectric constant, and dielectric loss on incorporating iron oxide nanoparticles into the polyvinyl alcohol matrix. The fabricated nanocomposite films might be a potential material for optoelectronic and microelectronics applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We further simplify the most 'user-friendly' potentiometric sensor for waterborne analytes, the 'extended-gate field effect transistor' (EGFET). This is accomplished using a 'bridge' design, that links two separate water pools, a 'control gate' (CG) pool and a 'floating gate' (FG) pool, by a bridge filled with agar-agar hydrogel. We show electric communication between electrodes in the pools across the gel bridge to the gate of an LND150 FET. When loading the gel bridge with a sorbent that is known to act as a sensitiser for Cu2+ water pollution, namely, the ion exchanging zeolite 'clinoptilolite', the bridged EGFET acts as a potentiometric sensor to waterborne Cu2+. We then introduce novel sensitisers into the gel bridge, the commercially available resins PurometTM MTS9140 and MTS9200, which are sorbents for the extraction of mercury (Hg2+) pollution from water. We find a response of the bridged EGFET to Hg2+ water pollution, setting a template for the rapid screening of ion exchange resins that are readily available for a wide range of harmful (or precious) metal ions. We fit the potentiometric sensor response vs. pollutant concentration characteristics to the Langmuir–Freundlich (LF) model which is discussed in context with other ion-sensor characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review is based on the fundamental aspects and applications of polyacrylonitrile (PAN)‐based electrospun composite nanofibers. Various electrospinning techniques have been discussed here. polyacrylonitrile is an acrylic polymer of commercial significance that has superior thermal, mechanical, electrical, and chemical properties. The integration of polyacrylonitrile nanofibers with nanoparticles including carbon nanotubes, graphene nanosheets, graphene oxide, metal oxides, and their combinations has greatly improved the physicochemical properties of the polyacrylonitrile electrospun nanofibers. The enhanced features of polyacrylonitrile nanofibers have resulted from interfacial bonding of nitrile groups with the nanofiller used, chemical compositions, hydrophobicity, porosity, and wettability of these nanofibers. This article fundamentally features a few key possibilities of polyacrylonitrile‐based electrospun composite nanofibers and their applications. A special focus has been made on polyacrylonitrile‐based inorganic nanoparticles, graphene nanosheets, graphene oxide, and carbon nanotubes embedded electrospun nanofibers, for their potential applications in supercapacitors, high power batteries, filtration membranes, electromagnetic interference shielding, and strain sensors. Achieving low cost, high selectivity, excellent recyclability, and high absorption capability are the major challenges for electrospun nanofiber fabrications. These electrospun nanofibers require extensive research in the future to advance the technologies to bring them to the commercial market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low energy electron beam (e-beam) has the ability to decontaminate or reduce bioburden and enhance the food product's safety with minimal quality loss. The current study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of e-beam on natural microbiota and quality changes in black peppercorns. The black pepper was exposed to e-beam at doses from 6-18 kGy. The microbial quality, physicochemical attributes, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity were evaluated. Results demonstrated the microbial population in black pepper decreased with increasing e-beam treatment doses. Significant inactivation of Total Plate Count (TPC), yeasts, and molds were observed at dose 6 kGy by 2.3, 0.7, and 1.3 log CFU g-1, respectively, while at 18 kGy the reduction level was 6, 2.9, and 4.4 log CFU g-1, respectively. Similarly, 18 kGy of e-beam yielded a reduction of 3.3 and 3.1 log CFU g-1 of Salmonella Typhimurium and coliform bacteria, respectively. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was noted between doses 12, 15, and 18 kGy on Bacillus cereus and Clostridium perfringens in black pepper. During e-beam doses, the values L*, a* and b* of black peppercorn were not noticeably altered up to 18 kGy dose. No significant (p > 0.05) difference in moisture, volatile oil, and piperine content upon (6-18 kGy) treatments in comparison to the control. A slight difference in the bioactive compound, retaining >90% of total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Results revealed that e-beam doses = 18 kGy were influential for inactivating natural microbes and foodborne pathogens without compromising the physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of black peppercorns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edible films and essential oil (EO) systems have the potency to enhance the microbial quality and shelf life of food. This investigation aimed to evaluate the efficacy of chitosan films including essential oils against spoilage bacteria and foodborne pathogens associated with meat. Antimicrobial activity (in vitro and in vivo) of chitosan films (CH) incorporated with oregano oil (OO) and thyme oil (TO) at 0.5 and 1% was done against spoilage bacteria and foodborne pathogens, compared to the control sample and CH alone. Preliminary experiments (in vitro) showed that the 1% OO and TO were more active against Staphylococcus aureus compared to Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella Typhimurium. In in vivo studies, CH containing OO and TO effectively inhibited the three foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria linked with packed beef meat which was kept at 4 °C/30 days compared to the control. The total phenolic content of the EOs was 201.52 mg GAE L−1 in thyme and 187.64 mg GAE L−1 in oregano. The antioxidant activity of thyme oil was higher than oregano oil. The results demonstrated that the shelf life of meat including CH with EOs was prolonged ~10 days compared to CH alone. Additionally, CH-OO and CH-TO have improved the sensory acceptability until 25 days, compared to the control. Results revealed that edible films made of chitosan and containing EOs improved the quality parameters and safety attributes of refrigerated or fresh meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the dynamic, non-linear, and complex character of large-scale power networks, prolonged inadequately damped low frequency oscillations may develop, leading to loss of synchronisation of generating units. Flexible AC transmission controller when equipped with an appropriate additional damping mechanism offers substantial damping in mitigating these oscillations. In this context, a smart flexible transmission device namely variable frequency transformer (VFT) is integrated into a multimachine power system network to effectively damp low-frequency oscillations. An adaptive model free neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) based damping controller is developed for VFT in order to damp inter-area oscillations. The ANFIS is a resilient and intelligent system that combines fuzzy logic and neural network capabilities with attributes like robustness, adaptability, speed, and flexibility. The proposed damping controller, which provides additional damping proportionate to the frequency variation, was included into the VFT’s power loop. The controller input is determined as the center-of-inertia difference of generator rotor speeds and is a remote signal delivered by a wide-area measuring system. Depending on the observability of crucial modes, participation factor (PF) investigation is used to extract the appropriate feedback signal, which provides details on the overall the system’s dynamics. The ANFIS-based scheme for the VFT is designed to impart sufficient damping qualities to the critical modes of the examined system under a variety of operating conditions. Using extensive non-linear time-domain simulations and eigenvalue analysis, the effectiveness of the suggested technique was evaluated on a popular 2-area, 4-generator, 11-bus test system.

Circular economy is still an imaginary field. In this manuscript, mild steel material is used to evaluate the coefficient of friction (COF) of cotton fabric. COF is evaluated to facilitate circular economy of textile industries. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), optical profilometer, mechanical profilometer and tribometer were used for AISI 52100 steel balls and cotton textile waste. The fabric surface was found distorted and damaged due to joggling, bobs, jerks, and pills surface defects. These defects produced due to physical and chemical treatments. The average coating surface roughness parameters were Rmax (0.35 µm), Rz (0.50 µm), and Rp (0.45). The dynamic coefficient of friction (COF) values was found 0.21 to 0.12 in warp and 0.17 to 0.10 in weft directions. The tensile strength and hardness values of mild steel 2600 MPa and 65 on HRC, respectively proved that metallic surface is smooth and soft. The smaller COF values and soft metallic surface produced low grip and cutting resistance due to damaged and distorted textile wastes. Based on COF values, deformation, wear and morphology evaluations, the mild steel machinery parts could be used operationally for recycling of textile wastes. for surface alterations of textile machinery parts. Furthermore, damaged, and distorted post-consumer textile wastes required hard, high strength and well finished machinery parts surfaces for its recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the efficacy of Dexmedetomidine with Tramadol for shivering post-spinal anaesthesia. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Anaesthesia, Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Jul to Dec 2020. Methodology: A total of 158 patients who underwent gynaecological, orthopaedic and general surgical procedures under spinal anaesthesia using 0.5% hyperbaric Bupivacaine 12-15 mg were included in the study. Out of these 158 patients, 64% (102 patients) developed shivering after spinal anaesthesia. These 102 patients were divided into two equal groups, i.e., Group-D (n=51), who received 0.5 μg/kg Dexmedetomidine and Group-T (n=51), who received 0.5 mg/kg tramadol. The response in the next 15 mins was evaluated objectively as “effective” or “non-effective” by the treating Anesthesiologist. Results: Dexmedetomidine and Tramadol were effective in treating shivering following spinal anaesthesia. Our study showed that Dexmedetomidine was more effective than Tramadol in treating shivering, with an effectiveness of 88.2 % shivering relief in Group-D and an effectiveness of 51 % shivering relief in Group-T. The effectiveness was significant in both groups, with statistical significance in Group-D compared to Group-T (p

Objective: To determine the efficacy of 2% Lidocaine instillation for endotracheal tube cuff inflation versus air on postextubation cough. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from May to Nov 2018. Methodology: The study was carried out on 64 patients undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia of a duration greater than one hour. Patients with respiratory pathology, risk of aspiration, difficult airway, and who need postop ventilator support were excluded. Patients were divided into Group-A (inflated with air) and Group-L (inflated with 2% Lidocaine) by sealed opaque envelop method. Post-extubation cough and one hour later was recorded. Results: The mean age of Group-A and Group-L was 30.06±4.36 years and 29.66±4.45 years, respectively. 43(67.19%) participants were males, whereas 21(32.81%) were females. The efficacy of 2% Lignocaine versus air in endotracheal cuff on post-extubation cough and one hour following extubation in Group-A was 19(59.38%) and 11(34.38%), respectively. This was reduced to 06(18.75%) and 1(3.13%) in Group-L, respectively (p

This paper presents a two-elements based, dual polarized, single layer, patch antenna array with improved isolation between transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) ports for 2.4 GHz in-band full duplex (IBFD) or simultaneous transmit and receive wireless applications. The differential feeding deployed at the Rx port effectively suppresses the coupling which is termed as self-interference from the Tx port to achieve high Tx–Rx interport isolation. A simple 3 dB/180° ring hybrid coupler with nice amplitude and phase balance characteristics has been used for differential Rx operation. The mathematical description for a differential feeding based self-interference cancellation mechanism is also presented for the proposed dual polarized IBFD antenna array. The measurement results for the implemented prototype of the antenna array demonstrate very nice levels of Tx–Rx interport isolation. The implemented single layer, compact antenna array presents 10 dB return-loss bandwidth of more than 50 MHz for both Tx and Rx ports. The prototype achieves >80 dB peak interport isolation and 75 dB (65 dB) isolation in 20 MHz (50 MHz) bandwidth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the efficacy of intravenous Tramadol and intravenous Morphine in attenuation of hemodynamic stress response to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study Place and Duration: Department of Anesthesia, Combined Military Hospital, Mardan Pakistan, from Jun 2021 to Jun 2022. Methodology: A total of 136 patients were involved in the research. These patients were divided via a lottery method into two groups i.e., Group-T (Tramadol) and Group-M (Morphine) with 68 patients in each group. Patients aged 20-50 years planned for laparoscopic cholecystectomy with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Grade I or Grade II were included in the study. Results: Out of a total of 136 patients with equal distribution of 68(50%) patients in each group. Patients with ASA– I Grade from Group–T and Group-M were 52(76.5%) and 41(60.1%), respectively; however, ASA–II Grade patients were 16(23.5%) from Group–T and 27(39.7%) from Group–M. In this study, intravenous Tramadol was effective in 48(70.5%) out of 68 patients, while intravenous Morphine was effective in 60(88.24%) patients, with a p-value of 0.01. Conclusion: This study concluded that intravenous Morphine is more effective in attenuating hemodynamic stress response to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation in laparoscopic cholecystectomy than intravenous Tramadol.

Objective: to assess comprehension of local anaesthetic systemic toxicity among clinical practitioners. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Tertiary Care Institute, from Dec 2019 to Mar 2020. Methodology: Methodology constituted of a web-based questionnaire. A pilot study carried out at 15-20 participants forquestionnaire validation and reviewed by independent experts for face validity, a final questionnaire comprised of 10 multiple-choice questions in addition to demographic profile. Results: A total of 950 participants participated in the study and data was extracted from their responses. Out of 738 (77.8%) participants declared that they are unaware of local anaesthetic systemic toxicity complication, 26 (2.7%) encountered local anaesthetic systemic toxicity and 185 (19.5%) never experienced. Ninety (9.5%) were aware of the availability and utilization of 'Lipid Emulsion' therapy to treat ‘Local Anaesthetic Systemic Toxicity’ (LAST). Conclusion: Although clinicians have significant awareness level regarding local anaesthetic toxicity but unfortunately compliance with management of this life-threatening complication is deficient.

Abstract Objective: To compare endotracheal intubation versus Suraglottic airway device in patients undergoing penetrating keratoplasty under general anaesthesia. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Ophthalmology, Rawalpindi, from Jan 2018 to Mar 2020. Methodology: Total 28 patients enrolled with a mean age of 42.82 ± 7.86 years and age-range of 18-55 belonging to American Society of Anesthesiology I, II & III undergoing penetrating keratoplasty under general anaesthesia. The airway was secured with I–Gel and Endotracheal tube in group A (n=14) and group B (n=14) respectively. Pre anaesthesia assessment along with informed written consent performed. General Anesthesia is given and patients monitored as per standard protocols. Postextubation incidence of cough, sore throat, bronchospasm, stridor and blood on device recorded in addition to surgery and recovery duration. Results: Twenty-eight patients were enrolled in the study with a mean age of 42.82 ± 7.86 years. There were 9 (32.1%) females and 19 (67.9%) males in the study group. The recovery time was significantly lower for group A as compared to group B (72.64 ± 5.06 vs 80.43 ± 3.75, p

Objective: To determine the efficacy of granisetron versus placebo (saline) for reducing shivering in patients undergoing lower segment caeserian section under spinal anaesthesia. Study Design: Comparative cross - sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Anaesthesia, Combined Military Hospital Rawalpindi, from Apr to Sep 2019. Methodology: Total 178 patients undergoing lower segment ceaserian section under spinal anaesthesia with age ranges from 18-40 years of American Society of Anaesthesiologists status I & II with full term pregnancy scheduled for elective caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia. Group A (n=92) received an intravenous bolus of 1 mg granisetron in a 10ml syringe and Group B (n=86) received intravenous bolus of normal saline in a 10ml syringe, drugs were administered immediately before spinal anaesthesia by anaesthetist as coded syringes. Heart rate, blood pressure, core body temperature and shivering scores were measured at 0 minutes, 30 minutes and 60 minutes, average surgery time recorded to be 60 minutes. Results: None of the patients in group A (drug group) exhibited appreciable post spinal shivering whereas 25 (29%) in group B (placebo) had clinically significant shivering necessitated administration of other established pharmacological agents to abort shivering in order to ensure patient comfort and satisfaction with statistically significant p-value of

Background and objective: The aim of recent study was to find out the serological prevalence of toxoplasmosis, as well as the effect of T. gondii on biochemical parameters of women visiting Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur. Method: The blood samples were obtained from the women visiting hospital and serum was stored. The Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay measured the immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies of T. gondii. Result: The overall prevalence of toxoplasmosis was 58.73%. age wise seroprevalence shows in age groups (years) 16-25, 26-33, 26-33, ≥42 was (50%), (63%), (55.55%) and (70%) respectively. The relationship between hosts disease and prevalence of toxoplasmosis in women suffering hepatitis B, kidney problem, arthritis, diabetes, nausea and thyroid abnormality, the parasitic prevalence was observed (57.57%), (33.33%), (50%), (57.14%), (75%), and (85.71%) respectively. The relationship between mother having total number of child 0-2, 3-5, ≥5 and prevalence of parasite was (62.96%), (60%), (33.33%) respectively. The prevalence of parasite in women belong different socio economic status poor, middle, rich and was (94.44%), (46.15%), (33.33%). There was significant difference between the parasitic prevalence and the host disease as well as socio economic status. The Mean±SEM biochemical parameters in age (years), disease, socio economic status, number of child of women was comparatively higher in infected hosts as compared to non-infected hosts. Conclusion: In conclusions the ndings indicated there is a noticeable prevalence of T. gondii so that control and serological screening programs should be implemented in Bahawalpur for the reliable and fast detection of Toxoplasma infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the efficacy of Topical Anaesthesiain reduction of oculocardiac reflex incidence and severity in patients undergoing squint surgery under general anaesthesia. Study Design: Quasi-Experimental Study. Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Ophthalmology from Nov 2019 to Mar 2020. \ Methodology: Two sixty-six patients (n=266) enrolled in the study, equally divided into two groups i.e. group A –Topical Anaesthetic 0.5% eye drops (n=133) and Group B–Placebo Eye Drops (n=133). Meticulous Pre anaesthesia assessment, Preoperative preparation and written consent ensured, followed by elective squint surgery under general anaesthesia with standard protocols. Results: Two sixty-six patients were enrolled in the study with a mean age of 16.22 ± 4.75 years and there were 122 (45.9%) males and 144 (54.1%) females in the study group. At 10, 20 and 30 minutes after the start of the surgery, the heart rate was significantly lower in the placebo group B as compared to group A (73.14 ± 12.9 vs 85.14 ± 17.5, p

Background and Objective: Obesity is now considered as an emerging epidemic worldwide. It is associated with dyslipidemias and is considered independent cardiovascular risk. The objective of the study was to determine the frequency of dyslipidemias in normotensive and non-diabetic obese subjects. Methods: A descriptive study of case series was conducted at Fatima Memorial Hospital Medical Outpatient Department from 01-01-2015 to 30-06-2015. Fifty obese non-diabetic participants with normal blood pressures were included in this study. Body weight in kilograms and height in centimeters was measured to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist Hip circumference was also measured. All study participants were investigated for fasting lipid profile. Results: The mean age of the participants was 43.02 ± 7.90 years. The mean BMI was 35.23 ± 4.42. The mean Waist circumference was 95.68 ± 18.67 cms. The mean Hip circumference was 103.02 ± 20.04 cms. The mean Waist/Hip ratio of the participants was 0.93 ± 0.05. 36/50 (72%) participants had > 200 mg/dl total cholesterol, 33/50 (66%) participants with > 150 mg/dl triglycerides, 27/50 (54%) participants with > 130 mg/dl low density lipoproteins - cholesterol and 21/50 (42%) participants with < 40 mg/dl high density lipoproteins - cholesterol. There were 42/50 (84%) subjects having dyslipidemia only 08/50 (16%) participants were without any deranged lipid profile. The statistical test between two percentages was significant with p value < .03. Conclusion: It is concluded from the study that non-diabetic, normotensive albeit obese subjects have higher frequency of dyslipidemia as it was found in 84% of the study participants and therefore are at a higher risk for CVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pentaerythritol plays very crucial role in the preparation of many polyfunctionalized compounds such as explosives, dyes, paints and surface coatings. Estimation of numerical solutions of kinetics of pentaerythritol production reactions has been an important issue. The kinetic model of this reacting system has been converted into system of ordinary differential equations. In this paper, the obtained system of ordinary differential equations describing the kinetics of pentaerythritol has been solved numerically by using non-standard finite difference method and semi analytical scheme 'differential transform method'. Sometime experimental data is not easily available, for such case we have estimated solutions for reaction parameters using NSFD and DTM. Obtained results are approximately same as experimental data. Results obtained from these techniques have been compared with each other and also with the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus infection 2019 (COVID-19) is a progressing viral pandemic. Adverse impacts related to COVID19 are usually includes sore throat, cough, fever and dyspnea. Anosmia emerged as newer reported symptom however, recognition awaited from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Center for Infection Control and Prevention (CDC). This case series features an instance of isolated abrupt presentation of anosmia as a manifestation of COVID-19 between two young males with parallelism of smoking and modest disease manifestation. Loss of smell is demonstrative of COVID-19 disease and has significant ramifications with regards to healthcare workers working close to infected therefore has increased susceptibility.

Copyright of Dirasat: Human & Social Sciences is the property of University of Jordan and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study sought to explore the effect of the administration of long-term, exogenous oxytocin on buffalo milk. In this study, newly-calved postpartum buffaloes (Nili-Ravi) (n = 24) were divided equally into three groups: (control without oxytocin - CON, 10 i.u. oxytocin - LOW, 30 i.u. oxytocin - HIGH). Oxytocin was injected twice a day before each 154-day milking. Milk production, milk composition, somatic cell counts, and progesterone (P4) were evaluated daily, weekly, and fortnightly, respectively. Results revealed that the HIGH group produced high milk production and pH values, but lower milk density than the CON and LOW groups. The HIGH group and LOW group had higher milk fat and solid-not-fat (SNF) compared to the CON group. SNF and protein were higher in the LOW group than the CON group. Freezing point, lactose, solids, somatic cell count, and P4 were similar in all three groups. Overall, it can be concluded that long-term, exogenous oxytocin has a positive effect on milk production, fat, SNF, and protein, with a negative effect on milk pH. None of the oxytocin treatments affected somatic cell counts and P4 concentration in postpartum buffalo milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low energy electron beam (e-beam) has the ability to decontaminate or reduce bioburden and enhance the food product's safety with minimal quality loss. The current study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of e-beam on natural microbiota and quality changes in black peppercorns. The black pepper was exposed to e-beam at doses from 6–18 kGy. The microbial quality, physicochemical attributes, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity were evaluated. Results demonstrated the microbial population in black pepper decreased with increasing e-beam treatment doses. Significant inactivation of Total Plate Count (TPC), yeasts, and molds were observed at dose 6 kGy by 2.3, 0.7, and 1.3 log CFU g−1, respectively, while at 18 kGy the reduction level was 6, 2.9, and 4.4 log CFU g−1, respectively. Similarly, 18 kGy of e-beam yielded a reduction of 3.3 and 3.1 log CFU g−1 of Salmonella Typhimurium and coliform bacteria, respectively. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was noted between doses 12, 15, and 18 kGy on Bacillus cereus and Clostridium perfringens in black pepper. During e-beam doses, the values L*, a* and b* of black peppercorn were not noticeably altered up to 18 kGy dose. No significant (p > 0.05) difference in moisture, volatile oil, and piperine content upon (6–18 kGy) treatments in comparison to the control. A slight difference in the bioactive compound, retaining > 90% of total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Results revealed that e-beam doses ≥ 18 kGy were influential for inactivating natural microbes and foodborne pathogens without compromising the physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of black peppercorns.

We further simplify the most ‘user-friendly’ potentiometric sensor for waterborne analytes, the ‘extended-gate field effect transistor’ (EGFET). This is accomplished using a ‘bridge’ design, that links two separate water pools, a ‘control gate’ (CG) pool and a ‘floating gate’ (FG) pool, by a bridge filled with agar-agar hydrogel. We show electric communication between electrodes in the pools across the gel bridge to the gate of an LND150 FET. When loading the gel bridge with a sorbent that is known to act as a sensitiser for Cu2+ water pollution, namely, the ion exchanging zeolite ‘clinoptilolite’, the bridged EGFET acts as a potentiometric sensor to waterborne Cu2+. We then introduce novel sensitisers into the gel bridge, the commercially available resins PurometTM MTS9140 and MTS9200, which are sorbents for the extraction of mercury (Hg2+) pollution from water. We find a response of the bridged EGFET to Hg2+ water pollution, setting a template for the rapid screening of ion exchange resins that are readily available for a wide range of harmful (or precious) metal ions. We fit the potentiometric sensor response vs. pollutant concentration characteristics to the Langmuir–Freundlich (LF) model which is discussed in context with other ion-sensor characteristics.

Abstract Reconstruction of a critical-sized osseous defect is challenging in maxillofacial surgery. Despite novel treatments and advances in supportive therapies, severe complications including infection, nonunion, and malunion can still occur. Here, we aimed to assess the use of a beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) scaffold loaded with high mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB-1) as a novel critical-sized bone defect treatment in rabbits. The study was performed on 15 specific pathogen-free New Zealand rabbits divided into three groups: Group A had an osseous defect filled with a β-TCP scaffold loaded with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (100 µL/scaffold), the defect in group B was filled with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP-2) (10 µg/100 µL), and the defect in group C was loaded with HMGB-1 (10 µg/100 µL). Micro-computed tomography (CT) examination demonstrated that group C (HMGB-1) showed the highest new bone volume ratio, with a mean value of 66.5%, followed by the group B (rhBMP-2) (31.0%), and group A (Control) (7.1%). Histological examination of the HMGB-1 treated group showed a vast area covered by lamellar and woven bone surrounding the β-TCP granule remnants. These results suggest that HMGB-1 could be an effective alternative molecule for bone regeneration in critical-sized mandibular bone defects.

In a prospective study conducted in the Postgraduate Department of Orthopaedics Govt. Medical College, Jammu, over a period of 2 years. Forty cases, both male and female in the age group of 20 to 50 years with thoracolumbar spinal injury between D11 and L2 vertebra with neurological deficit were included . Out of these forty cases, 20 cases were managed by posterior decompression and stabilization with Steffee plating and 20 cases of similar injuries were managed conservatively and comparison of the two groups was made. The results were analyzed according to neurological improvement as per Frankel's grading, the complications and the duration of hospital stay in both the groups. In operative group; 50% of the patients showed some degree of recovery with 30% of the patients showed full recovery. The mean postoperative correction of kyphosis was 12.5% and the average hospital stay was 23.7days. 15% of the patients in operated group developed complications. In the conservative group; 30% of the total patients showed neurological recovery with 20 % patients showed significant recovery (Grade D). There were various complications in 65% patients and the average hospital stay was recorded as 40.5 days. General complications were more in conservative group. In view of increased incidence of neurological recovery, decreased incidence of complications, decrease in hospital stay and ease of nursing care in case of operated group, we recommend posterior spinal fixation with Steffee plate system in patients with unstable dorsolumbar spinal fractures especially with incomplete neurological deficit to be adopted in oprative practise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Shot-to-shot variation in the characteristics of laser produced plasma plume and surface profile of N-type silicon (111) are investigated. In order to produce plasma, a Q-switched Nd: YAG laser (1064nm, 10mJ, 9–14ns) is tightly focused on silicon target in air at room temperature. Target was exposed in such a way that number of laser shots was increased from point to point in ascending order starting from single shot at first point. Target was moved 2mm after each exposure. In order to investigate shot-to-shot variation in the time integrated emission intensity regions within the plasma plume, a computer controlled CCD based image capture system was employed. Various intensity regimes were found depending strongly on the number of incident laser pulses. Plasma plume length was also found to vary with the number of pulses. The topographic analysis of the irradiated Si was performed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) which shows the primary mechanisms like thermal or non-thermal ablation depend on the number of shots. Surface morphological changes were also studied in terms of ripple formation, ejection, debris and re-deposition of material caused by laser beam at sample surface. The micrographs show ripples spacing versus wavelength dependence rule [Λ ≈ λ/(1−sin θ)]. Intensity variations with number of shots are correlated with the surface morphology of the irradiated sample. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, we have successfully controlled the number of secondary phases in Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nano-structures by changing the concentration of Copper (Cu) atoms. Zinc Copper Oxide (Zn 1-x Cu x O) nanostructures with x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 were grown by hydrothermal technique. The increased number of secondary phases with Cu concentration were resulted in the enhancement of Seebeck coefficient (72–124 μV/°C) and power factor (2.3 × 10−4 Wm−1K−2). The secondary phases are served as barrier therefore, filtered the low energy carriers at the interface of two secondary phases which resulted in the enhancement of Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity simultaneously. The emergence of secondary phases with Cu concentration was confirmed with the help supplementary measurements. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) data is confirmed the formation of the wurtzite structure of ZnO along with the presence of Copper Oxide (CuO) based secondary phases. Furthermore, the intensity of secondary phases related XRD peaks were found to be increased with the increase of Cu concentration. Raman spectroscopy data was suggested that the intensity of E 2 high mode was decreased due to the development of a number of secondary phases with Cu concentration. Scanning electron microscope images are shown the formation of hexagonal shaped nano structures. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) data was used to further confirm the presence of secondary phases in the grown Zinc Copper Oxide (ZCO) samples at higher concentration of Cu atoms. • Growth of Cu doped ZnO by hydrothermal method. • Different concentration of Cu creates secondary phases. • Thermoelectric properties enhanced due to the presence of secondary phases. • Presence of secondary phases verified by XRD, Raman spectroscopy and SEM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mansonone G (MG), a 1,2-naphthoquinones with antiestrogenic, antimicrobial, and anti-adipogenic activities, is derived from the heartwood of Mansonia gagei Drumm. Ethoxy mansonone G (EMG), an essential derivative of MG, has anticancer and antioxidant agent. EMG also has antiestrogen activity and is demonstrated to lower estrogen receptor expression in endocrine-resistant cells. EMG significantly inhibits cell division, invasion, and anchorage-dependent growth in all cancer types. Through the stimulation of the tumor protein (p53) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling cascades, it also causes apoptosis. Moreover, it manifests its anti-cancerous effects in toll-like receptor pathways, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (c-JNK), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). EMG inhibits the phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase (GSK3), Erk, protein kinase B (Akt), and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). By interfering with molecular cascades, EMG significantly reduces the metabolism of cancer cells. This paper focuses on the potential use of EMG in cancer treatment. Moreover, it states the methodology by which specific assays establish the anti-cancerous role of EMG. Breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and colorectal cancer are only a few of the cancers for which EMG was shown to be effective. Through further research, EMG may be developed as a therapeutic solution to complications caused by cancer. This study presents EMG as a novel candidate for cancer therapy, offering a unique combination of pharmacological advantages and mechanistic insights that warrant further exploration and development toward addressing the complexities of cancer treatment., (© 2024 International Federation for Cell Biology.)

Background: Growing evidence suggests that intensive lowering of systolic blood pressure (BP) may prevent mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. However, current guidelines provide inconsistent recommendations regarding optimal BP targets, citing safety concerns of excessive BP lowering in the diverse population of older adults. We are conducting a pragmatic trial to determine if an implementation strategy to reduce systolic BP to <130 and diastolic BP to <80 mmHg will safely slow cognitive decline in older adults with hypertension when compared to patients receiving usual care., Methods: The Preventing Cognitive Decline by Reducing BP Target Trial (PCOT) is an embedded randomized pragmatic clinical trial in 4000 patients from two diverse health-systems who are age ≥ 70 years with BP >130/80 mmHg. Participants are randomized to the intervention arm or usual care using a permuted block randomization within each health system. The intervention is a combination of team-based care with clinical decision support to lower home BP to <130/80 mmHg. The primary outcome is cognitive decline as determined by the change in the modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS-m) scores from baseline. As a secondary outcome, patients who decline ≥3 points on the TICS-m will complete additional cognitive assessments and this information will be reviewed by an expert panel to determine if they meet criteria for MCI or dementia., Conclusion: The PCOT trial will address the effectiveness and safety of hypertension treatment in two large health systems to lower BP targets to reduce risk of cognitive decline in real-world settings., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no competing interests., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background: Infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can lead to post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) that can persist for weeks to years following initial viral infection. Clinical manifestations of PASC are heterogeneous and often involve multiple organs. While many hypotheses have been made on the mechanisms of PASC and its associated symptoms, the acute biological drivers of PASC are still unknown., Methods: We enrolled 494 patients with COVID-19 at their initial presentation to a hospital or clinic and followed them longitudinally to determine their development of PASC. From 341 patients, we conducted multi-omic profiling on peripheral blood samples collected shortly after study enrollment to investigate early immune signatures associated with the development of PASC., Results: During the first week of COVID-19, we observed a large number of differences in the immune profile of individuals who were hospitalized for COVID-19 compared to those individuals with COVID-19 who were not hospitalized. Differences between individuals who did or did not later develop PASC were, in comparison, more limited, but included significant differences in autoantibodies and in epigenetic and transcriptional signatures in double-negative 1 B cells, in particular., Conclusions: We found that early immune indicators of incident PASC were nuanced, with significant molecular signals manifesting predominantly in double-negative B cells, compared with the robust differences associated with hospitalization during acute COVID-19. The emerging acute differences in B cell phenotypes, especially in double-negative 1 B cells, in PASC patients highlight a potentially important role of these cells in the development of PASC., Competing Interests: JL, MW, PK, CC, KD, GT, and CK maintain equity ownership and employment at Verily Life Sciences. NH, JA, CW, CP-K, and IM were employed at Oncimmune Limited. SP reports personal fees from Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and UpToDate, Inc., and grants from Philips, Inc., Sommetrics, Inc., and Regeneron. CD serves on advisory boards for Abbott Diagnostics, Ortho/Quidel Diagnostics, and Roche Diagnostics. JK receives research funding from Regeneron. JK has also provided consulting for GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, CereVu Medical, Propeller/ResMed, and BData, Inc. The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Leung, Wu, Kheradpour, Chen, Drake, Tong, Ridaura, Zisser, Conrad, Hudson, Allen, Welberry, Parsy-Kowalska, Macdonald, Tapson, Moy, deFilippi, Rosas, Basit, Krishnan, Parthasarathy, Prabhakar, Salvatore and Kim.)

Introduction: The focus on social determinants of health (SDOH) and their impact on health outcomes is evident in U.S. federal actions by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and Office of National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. The disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on minorities and communities of color heightened awareness of health inequities and the need for more robust SDOH data collection. Four Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) hubs comprising the Texas Regional CTSA Consortium (TRCC) undertook an inventory to understand what contextual-level SDOH datasets are offered centrally and which individual-level SDOH are collected in structured fields in each electronic health record (EHR) system potentially for all patients., Methods: Hub teams identified American Community Survey (ACS) datasets available via their enterprise data warehouses for research. Each hub's EHR analyst team identified structured fields available in their EHR for SDOH using a collection instrument based on a 2021 PCORnet survey and conducted an SDOH field completion rate analysis., Results: One hub offered ACS datasets centrally. All hubs collected eleven SDOH elements in structured EHR fields. Two collected Homeless and Veteran statuses. Completeness at four hubs was 80%-98%: Ethnicity, Race; < 10%: Education, Financial Strain, Food Insecurity, Housing Security/Stability, Interpersonal Violence, Social Isolation, Stress, Transportation., Conclusion: Completeness levels for SDOH data in EHR at TRCC hubs varied and were low for most measures. Multiple system-level discussions may be necessary to increase standardized SDOH EHR-based data collection and harmonization to drive effective value-based care, health disparities research, translational interventions, and evidence-based policy., Competing Interests: The authors have no competing interests to declare., (© The Author(s) 2024.)

This study aimed to prepare tamsulosin hydrochloride (HCl)-loaded in situ gelling formulation by using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), gellan gum, poloxamer 188, and benzalkonium chloride. Physicochemical evaluation of formulations included determination of pH, viscosity, gelation time, gel strength, drug content, and sterility. In silico study was performed to analyze interactions between polymers, drug, and mucin glycoprotein. In vitro degradation time, drug release, ex vivo mucoadhesion time, permeation, in vivo pharmacokinetics, and stability studies were performed to assess the formulation. Formulations were transparent and displayed acceptable physicochemical attributes. Tamsulosin HCl and polymers interacted via non-covalent interactions. HPMC formed hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic and van der Waals interactions with mucin protein while the drug formed hydrogen bonds only. Gel formulation degraded in simulated nasal fluid within 24 h. In situ gelling formulation showed 83.8 ± 1.7% drug release and remained adhered to the mucosa for 24.5 ± 1 h. A higher (~ 1.85 times) drug permeation was recorded through mucosa within 6 h by in situ gelling formulation when compared to control counterparts (aqueous solution of drug and in situ gelling formulation without poloxamer 188). Nasal administration of tamsulosin HCl by using in situ gelling formulation led to a ~ 3.3 and ~ 3.5 times, respectively, higher Cmax (maximum plasma concentration) and AUC total (total area under the curve) than the orally administered aqueous solution. Relative bioavailability of drug delivered by nasal in situ gelling formulation was 3.5 times the oral counterpart. These results indicated that the prepared in situ gelling formulation can act as a promising candidate for systemic administration of tamsulosin HCl., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists.)