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Social vulnerability assessment is a dynamic process, which varies from place to place. In the present study, the social vulnerability index (SVI) of Malda district has been prepared because of several impacts of flood inundation. The flood inundation layer has been generated using multi-temporal remote sensing data. The flood inundation layer is prepared from real-time Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data. For social vulnerability assessment, the most efficient indicators are household composition, age & sex composition, and underprivileged population (SC& ST). Economic and educational data has been collected from the Census of India Handbook 2011. All these data are combined with the district's village database on the GIS platform. The weightage overlay analysis method is applied to generate the social vulnerability index of the study area, where the multi-influencing factor (MIF) technique has been used for determining the influencing factors. The social vulnerability index has categories into Very High (4%), High (37%), Moderate (32%) and Low (27%). The social vulnerability index is being further intersected with the flood inundation layer to build a database for the most vulnerable area of this district. It has been observed that 70 villages are in Very High zones, 662 villages are in High, 578 villages are in Moderate and 479 villages are in Low zones. This study will help the disaster manager and stakeholders about the vulnerable situation of the study area and also depict the importance of geospatial techniques in disaster management.

Electronic textiles (e-textiles) build upon existing technologies to develop truly smart textiles: garments that sense, react, and adapt. Thermoregulatory e-textiles are an area of significant interest across the field. Designing e-textiles that satisfy electrical performance and simple construction is a significant challenge. To address these issues, a simple dip-coating and in-situ polymerization method was used to develop the first example of a thermoregulatory e-textile using green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNP) and polypyrrole (Ppy), based on the method previously reported (Naysmith, A.; Mian, N.S.; Rana, S. Development of conductive textile fabric using Plackett–Burman optimized green synthesized silver nanoparticles and in situ polymerized polypyrrole. Green Chemistry Letters and Reviews 2023, 16 (1)). This methodology was optimized using a Taguchi statistical design determining the optimal AgNP-Ppy synthesis method to obtain high performance Joule heating e-textiles, novel within the field of e-textiles. Reactant concentration and reaction time had the largest effects on the electrical resistance of subsequent e-textiles. The result is the first example of an e-textile heater based on green synthesized AgNPs. The e-textile demonstrated exceptional Joule heating (120°C), low electrical resistance (37 Ω), resistive temperature sensing behavior (negative TCR = −0.0046), and increased thermal conductivity (19.55 l (Wm−1 K−1)); the strain sensing behavior (gauge factor = −0.07). This work extends knowledge of the development and challenges within e-textile technologies as the field creates the next generation of textiles.

Male Idesia polycarpa, which display distinct morphological and physiological traits, exhibit greater adaptability to stressful environments than females. However, the connection between this adaptability and rhizosphere processes remains unclear. Here, we investigate the differences in root bacterial community structures between male and female plants at different developmental stages, identifying bacterial strains associated with plant sex through functional predictions. This study aims to inform the optimal allocation of male and female plants during cultivation and provide a theoretical basis for sex identification and breeding. Samples from seven-year-old male and female plants were collected during the flowering (May) and fruit ripening (October) stages. Rhizosphere nutrient content and bacterial diversity were analyzed using Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology. The results demonstrate that total nitrogen (TN), total carbon (TC), and available potassium (AK) varied between sexes at different times. No significant differences between male and female plants were observed in the Shannon, Simpson, and Chao1 indexes during the flowering period. However, the Chao1 and Shannon indexes were significantly higher at fruit maturity in male rather than female plants. The predominant phyla of rhizosphere bacteria were Pseudomonadota, Acidobacteriota, and Actinomycetes. Interestingly, from flowering to fruit ripening, the dominant phyla in both male and female plants shifted from Actinomycetes to Pseudomonadota. A significant correlation was observed between pH and AK and rhizosphere bacteria (p < 0.05), with metabolism being the main functional difference. This study provides preliminary insights into the functional predictions and analyses of bacteria associated with Idesia polycarpa. The above findings lay the groundwork for further investigation into the sex-specific differences in microbial flora across different developmental stages, elucidating the mechanisms underlying flora changes and offering theoretical support for the high-quality management of Idesia polycarpa.

Background: There is evidence that the worldwide need for safe blood is not being met, particularly in poor nations like Bangladesh, where there is a scarcity of voluntary blood donors. This research intends to evaluate the public's knowledge, attitude, and practice of voluntary blood donation and the socio-demographic factors associated with blood donation in Khulna city, Bangladesh. Materials and methods: 720 interviews were taken using a structural questionnaire with Khulna city residents implementing the convenience sampling technique. After pre-processing and removing missing values, 697 records were left for further analysis. To investigate the association of sociodemographic factors such as age, gender, education, occupation, marital status, permanent address, and smoking status with knowledge, attitude, and practice of blood donation, the binary logistic regression model was used. Results: According to this research, 478 (68.58%), 654 (93.83%), and 451 (64.71%) respondents were knowledgeable, had a favorable attitude, and practiced VBD, respectively. The study level higher secondary (AOR = 2.2; CI: 1.16–4.18), honors or degree (AOR = 2.37; CI: 1.3–4.3), and masters or above (AOR = 3.27; CI: 1.69–6.35) were associated with the knowledge. The favorable attitude was connected with being male (AOR = 2.24; CI: 1.23–4.06), learning about VBD through online social media (AOR = 2.61; CI: 1.13–6.05), and having knowledge of VBD (AOR = 3.05; CI: 1.82–5.12). Age between 26 and 35 years (AOR = 2.83; CI: 1.43–5.57) and older than 45 years (AOR = 3.74; CI: 1.34–10.4), being a man (AOR = 3.6; CI: 2.25–5.78), being a smoker (AOR = 1.87; CI: 1.17–2.98), knowing about VBD (AOR = 2.31; CI: 1.55–3.42), and having a positive attitude (AOR = 3.78; CI: 2.11–6.77) were significant factors for practicing blood donation. Conclusion: This research demonstrates poor blood donation practices and limited knowledge of blood donation among Khulna city residents. The awareness of the residents should be prolonged for voluntary blood donation by the health bureau, the government, and non-governmental organizations.

Abstract This paper reports the development of novel surface parameters which can be used to characterise the scale structure of wool fibres obtained from different breeds. Scanning electron microscopy and subsequent image analysis technique were used to study wool fibres from Leicester, Dartmoor, Ryeland and Herdwick breeds of sheep. Novel scale parameters related to wool fibre’s effective chemical diffusion pathway were developed. Namely, the total scale perimeter per 100 µm fibre length and scale perimeter index, which is the total scale perimeter per 100 µm length divided by the fibre diameter. Wool fibres obtained from different breeds showed significant differences in their scale pattern with the change in fibre diameter. The scale perimeter per 100 µm length increased with the fibre diameter and showed a polynomial correlation. It was also demonstrated that an increase in the diameter of the wool fibre resulted in an increase in the apparent dye diffusion coefficient, which contrasts the established theory that finer fibres are associated with a higher dyeing rate. The increase in effective diffusion pathway (total scale perimeter per 100 µm) for the wool fibres (among different breeds) resulted in a higher dye diffusion rate at the initial phase of dyeing (liquor to surface).

Escherichia coli is a notorious ubiquitous organism among the foodborne pathogens which can form biofilm leading to the development of antibiotic resistance. We aimed to investigate E. coli isolated from a total of 240 raw beef and ready-to-eat samples obtained from the capital of Bangladesh along with the microbial quality of the samples. The isolates underwent antibiogram profiling in accordance with the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute Guideline 2023 and characterized for the presence of antibiotic resistance genes, as well as for phenotypic and genotypic detection of biofilm formation. The average total aerobic counts and specific bacterial counts exceeded the recommended limit by Bangladesh Food Safety Authority. Among the samples, 86 (36%) samples were positive for E. coli. The antibiogram profile depicted diverse resistance patterns with the highest resistance to ampicillin (100%), amoxicillin (81%), ciprofloxacin (71%), and azithromycin (67%). However, vancomycin (64%), meropenem (57%) and aztreonam (51%) were the most sensitive antibiotics to the isolates. The antimicrobial resistance encoding genes blaTEM (72%) and tetA (65%) were the most prevalent where the percentage of blaOXA-1, blaCITM, blaNDM-1, blaCTX-M-2, blaCTX-M, blaCMY, blaCTX-M-1 and blaSHV genes were 42%, 33%, 6%, 20%, 17%, 16%, 14% and 9% respectively. Phenotypic characterization, utilizing Congo red agar and microtiter plate tests, identified 53 out of 86 isolates as biofilm producers, with 10 classified as strong producers, and 8 and 35 as intermediate and weak producers, respectively. Molecular detection methods revealed that among the 53 isolates positive for biofilm production, 96% carried the csgA gene. Additionally, high prevalence rates were observed for fliC (80%), bcsA (66%), and fimH (60%), indicating their significant roles in biofilm formation. Conversely, the prevalence of agn43 was lower, with only 30% of isolates harboring this gene. This study addresses a knowledge gap, highlighting the public health risks associated with biofilm-producing foodborne pathogens and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, underscoring the necessity for improved hygiene practices to mitigate the public health threats posed by these pathogens.

Idesia polycarpa Maxim is an emerging oil plant species. Understanding its microecological characteristics and internal mechanisms can serve as a basis for field management and the screening and application of growth-promoting bacteria during the growth phase of young trees. This study used three-year-old young I. polycarpa to analyze the tree’s root morphology, soil, and leaf nutrient status variations from May to October. In addition, differences in the rhizosphere soil, leaf metabolites, and microorganisms were observed. The results showed that, from May to October, the total nitrogen (TN) in the soil significantly decreased, whereas the TN, total potassium (TK), and total phosphorus (TP) in the leaves differed (p < 0.05). The leaf-dominant bacteria changed from Pseudomonadota to Firmicutes phylum. In addition, the relative abundance of soil and leaf-dominant bacteria decreased. The study found that the soil and leaf differential metabolites were mainly sugars and phenolic acids. The soil bacterial community showed a significant correlation with soil pH, available potassium (AK), available phosphorus (AP), and TN (p < 0.05). Further, the soil fungal community was significantly correlated with pH and AK (p < 0.001). TP, pH, and TK were the main factors influencing the leaf bacterial community, while the leaf fungal community was significantly correlated with five factors, including pH, TC, and TN. The root morphology was also mainly affected by pH, Pedomicrobium sp., Talaromyces sp., Penicillium sp., and D-Mannitol 2.

Abstract Internet security has become a major concern with the growing use of the Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing technologies. Even though data processing is handled by the edge server, sensitive data is generated and stored by the IoT devices, which are subject to attack. Since most IoT devices have limited resources, standard security algorithms such as AES, DES, and RSA hamper their ability to run properly. In this paper, a lightweight symmetric key cipher termed randomized butterfly architecture of fast Fourier transform for key (RBFK) cipher is proposed for resource-constrained IoT devices in the edge computing environment. The butterfly architecture is used in the key scheduling system to produce strong round keys for five rounds of the encryption method. The RBFK cipher has two key sizes: 64 and 128 bits, with a block size of 64 bits. The RBFK ciphers have a larger avalanche effect due to the butterfly architecture ensuring strong security. The proposed cipher satisfies the Shannon characteristics of confusion and diffusion. The memory usage and execution cycle of the RBFK cipher are assessed using the fair evaluation of the lightweight cryptographic systems (FELICS) tool. The proposed ciphers were also implemented using MATLAB 2021a to test key sensitivity by analyzing the histogram, correlation graph, and entropy of encrypted and decrypted images. Since the RBFK ciphers with minimal computational complexity provide better security than recently proposed competing ciphers, these are suitable for IoT devices in an edge computing environment.

Plantation forests play an important role in the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions. Idesia polycarpa Maxim is an emerging woody oil tree species in most Asian countries. The 19-year-old Idesia polycarpa ‘Yuji’ plantation forest was selected as a sample site. The nutrient contents of the understory soil total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN), nitrate nitrogen (NN), organic carbon (OC), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), and pH were analyzed. Several metrics were measured to quantify the growth status of the forest, such as tree heights (H), clear bole heights (CBH), diameters at breast height (DBH), and male-to-female ratios (MFR). In addition, we harvested the fruits to analyze oil content and fatty acid composition. The results found that the nutrient content of the soil was TC (4.93%), TN (0.42%), NN (43.08 mg kg−1), OC (4.90 g kg−1), AP (13.66 mg kg−1), AK (30.48 mg kg−1), and pH (7.90). The growth characteristics were H (11.75 m), DBH (12.79 cm), and CBH (6.17 m). The MFR was close to 1:1. Besides, the oil content of the fruit and unsaturated fatty acids was 24.08% and 68.49%, respectively. As an alternative tree species, the plantation of Idesia polycarpa offers great potential in artificial afforestation in some particular places with specific forest site conditions.

ABSTRACTElectronic textiles (e-textiles) are undergoing rapid technological advancements to attain e-textiles that look and feel like conventional textile fabrics. Research seeks to develop highly functionalized textile-based sensors, actuators, and energy storage devices that integrate seamlessly with current textile technologies. Presently, developments are limited by either low electrical performance, or high cost and complex construction. Additionally, negotiating the balance between high performing e-textiles and environmentally benign production is a challenge. In this report, green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are composited with the conjugated polymer, polypyrrole (Ppy), to create a low-cost conductive textile fabric. A Plackett–Burman design of experiment was used to optimize lime peel extract (LPE) mediated reduction for the synthesis of AgNPs. The results of this optimization process revealed silver nitrate concentration to be a significant factor in both size and UV-vis absorption maxima of the LPE-synthesized AgNPs, and reaction temperature also affecting UV-vis absorption maxima. The resultant optimized AgNPs were consistent in size (40–80 nm) and dispersity (PDI = 0.250). The LPE-synthesized AgNPs are used to form a AgNP-Ppy nanocomposite with a linen textile to produce an e-textile with low electrical resistance (37 Ω).

Wugong Mountain meadow landscape is well-known both at home and abroad because of its ornamental value. Our study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the function of soil and water conservation at different altitudes of Wugong Mountain meadow soil. The hydro-physical characteristics, including the soil bulk density, porosity, water content, water holding capacity, and permeability of meadow soil at 1600 m–1900 m altitudes, were analyzed. The results showed that the mountain meadow soil's hydro-physiological characteristics and water conservation function significantly differed with altitude. However, the trend of each index did not follow the same law with altitude change. There was a decrease in bulk density of the soil from 1700 m to 1900 m, but a significant increase in porosity and water-holding capacity. Despite the higher porosity and water holding capacity found at 1600 m than at 1700 m and 1800 m, a similar bulk density was found at 1600 m as 1700 m. In addition, the bulk density in the 0–20 cm layer was lower than that in the 20–40 cm layer, while the porosity and water-holding capacity were higher. A higher sequence of soil water conservation capacity was found in soil layers 0–20 cm depth at 1900, 1600, 1800, and 1700 m; in soil layers 20–40 cm depth, it was at 1900, 1800, 1700, and 1600 m. The study found that the sequence of the comprehensive performance of soil water conservation function was at 1900, 1600, 1800, and 1700 m altitudes in the Wugong mountain meadow area. Our comprehensive study of soil water conservation capacity provides a theoretical basis for the rational use of mountain meadow resources in subtropical regions.

The purpose of this paper is the comparison of the environmental performance between a reusable face mask, made from British Wool, a single-use conventional mask, made of polypropylene (PP), and a reusable cotton mask, using Life Cycle Assessment. The analysis revealed that although one woollen mask has higher environmental impact than a single-use PP mask, its reusable nature makes it more environmentally friendly in the long term. Over the period of one year, the carbon footprint of the woollen face mask use is approximately 46% lower than the use of a conventional single-use PP mask, whereas the water depletion is approximately 28% lower. The production cost of one woollen face mask with an active filtration layer is £0.89 and the annual expenses for an individual are estimated to be 54% lower compared to the daily purchase and use of conventional PP masks. Looking forward to a potential scaled up production of the woollen face masks, the most critical parameters that need to be considered in terms of the environmental impact are the metal component used in the active layer and the wool, whereas for the cost the most significant factor is the energy used for steam and hot water production.

Volatiles are essential substances that determine distinct fruit flavors and user preferences. However, the metabolic dynamic and molecular modulation models that regulate the overall flavor generation during fruit growth and ripening are still largely unclear for most fruit species. To comprehensively analyze the molecular mechanism and regulation mechanism of aroma accumulation and aroma component formation in Pyrus spp. ‘Panguxiang’ (‘Panguxiang’pear), this study compared pear phenotype, sugars, organic acid content, and the expression of related genes and metabolites amid pear growth and development in Pyrus spp. ‘Panguxiang’. A total of 417 VOCs (4 amines, 19 aromatics, 29 aldehydes, 31 alcohols, 38 ketones, 64 heterocyclic compounds, 89 terpenoids, 94 esters, and 49 others) were found. The potential gene expression patterns were explored by combining transcriptomics and metabolomics, and VOC-associated metabolism and transcriptome data from all samples were integrated during the growth and development period. On this basis, we constructed a colorful model depicting changes in the VOCs and genes throughout pear growth and development. Our findings reveal that terpenoid biosynthesis pathways are the main aroma production pathways during pear growth and development. In addition to providing novel insights into the metabolic control of fruit flavor during growth and development, this study also provides a new theoretical basis for studying aroma metabolites in pears.

Background and objectives: Various new manifestations and risk factors for COVID-19 have been unveiled in the course of the current pandemic. Understanding the clinical spectrums as well as the risk factors associated with the adverse outcome of the disease is critical to combat this pandemic. This study was conducted to identify the clinical features, overall outcome and the factors associated with adverse outcome of the hospitalised COVID-19 patients in a semi-urban healthcare setting. Methods: This study was conducted at Debidwar Upazila (sub-district) Health Complex under the Cumilla district from April 2020 to October 2020. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) positive COVID-19 patients, aged 18 years and above, admitted at the Health Complex were enrolled in the study. All patients were followed till their recovery, referral or death. The data were collected in a pre-designed semi-structured questionnaire that included demographic, epidemiological, clinical and laboratory parameters. Result: Out of 50 RT-PCR positiveCOVID-19 adult participants, 30 (60%) were males and 20 (40%) were females. Twenty-four percent, 36%, and 40% of the patients had mild, moderate and severe disease respectively. The most common clinical symptom was fever (96%), followed by cough (86%) and shortness of breath (60%). Hypertension (54%), diabetes mellitus (40%), bronchial asthma (20%) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, 14%) were the major co-morbid conditions. Of the total cases, 2 (4%) died and 8 (16%) required referral to tertiary care hospital while 40 (80%) recovered. COPD was associated with poor outcome (OR 19; 95% CI: 2.88, 125.31; p < 0.05). Smokers were 7 times more likely to exhibit the negative outcome than non-smokers (95% CI: 1.52, 32.33; p < 0.05). Conclusion: In this study, COPD was associated with a negative outcome. Further study with larger sample should be carried out to determine the spectrum of risk factors. IMC J Med Sci 2020; 14(2): 009. OPEN ACCESS ¶Co-first author - contributed equally. *Correspondence: Wasim Md Mohosin Ul Haque, Department of Nephrology, BIRDEM General Hospital, 122 Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh. Email: wmmhaque@live.com

In this work, we present an experimental demonstration of our previously published modeling work on reflective long period grating (LPG). To provide the practical realization of the modeling work, we coat a long segment of fiber both in the tail length and the end facet beyond the gratings with silver to invert the transmission mode LPG to reflection mode LPG. We then measure the LPG characteristics in both the transmission and reflection mode and validate our findings from modeling work. We further build temperature and refractive index (RI) sensors and demonstrate temperature sensing from 21 °C to 191 °C with similar temperature sensitivity coefficients of 54.4 ± 2.9 pm/°C and 53.2 ± 2.6 pm/°C for transmission and reflection mode LPG, respectively whereas same RI sensitivity coefficient of 370 ± 2.2 nm/RIU.

Abstract Background Chenopodium album (Family: Amaranthaceae) is a nutritive herb mainly found in Bangladesh and had reported that it is having different bioactive phytochemicals including polyphenols. It has a great popularity for it is traditionally used as a medicine against microorganisms, inflammation, and cancer. We designed this experiment to explore the in vivo anticancer effects of C. album leaf extract against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells in Swiss albino mice. Results Administration of C. album leaf extract at concentration 200 (mg/kg) and 400 (mg/kg) showed 30.60% and 41.80% cell growth inhibition respectively that were statistically significant (*** P < 0.001) and may lead to apoptosis, and the number of apoptotic cells were 37.5 ± 6.22, 54.67 ± 4.76 respectively (***P < 0.001). Plant extract at concentration 200 (mg/kg) and 400 (mg/kg) increased life span 22.27% and 51.07% respectively. Tumor weight decreased 18.50 ± 2.59 g, 13.67 ± 2.25 g respectively compared to the control group, and results were statistically significant (***P < 0.001). Treatment with plant extract 200 (mg/kg) and 400 (mg/kg) restored all biochemical parameters including hemoglobin content, white blood cell (WBC) count, and red blood cell (RBC) count of EAC cells bearing Swiss albino mice. Conclusion Our current findings may suggest that C. album leaf extract showed potent anticancer activity through cell growth inhibition and apoptosis, increased mean survival time, decreased tumor weight, and restored all the biochemical parameters and stimulation of host immunity. As a result, the C. album leaf has taken into consideration as a potent source of bioactive compounds in cancer chemotherapy.

Objective: Bidi is an inexpensive, low-processed, hand-rolled tobacco product. In Bangladesh, especially in Rangpur, tobacco farming and bidi processing are common. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the impact of bidi making on children working in bidi factories. Methods: This qualitative(walk-through survey) and quantitative(questionnaire-based survey and a urine cotinine level quantitation) study was conducted in Rangpur, Bangladesh in 2017. Study population included child-workers aged ≤14 years who were regularly employed as bidi makers. Findings: The results of the walk-through survey revealed hazardous working environments at bidi factories. For the quantitative survey, 171 child-workers were categorized into “less-working”(

Purpose: This current study investigated the effect of metformin treatment on hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NADLD) in high fat diet (HFD) fed rats. Method: Wistar rats were fed with a HFD or laboratory chow diet for 8 weeks. Metformin was administered orally at a dose of 200 mg/kg. Body weight, food and water intake were recorded on daily basis. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), biochemical analysis and histological examinations were conducted on plasma and tissue samples. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mRNA expression was analyzed using reverse transcription polymeric chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: Metformin treatment for 8 weeks prevented HFD-induced weight gain and decreased fat deposition in HFD fed rats. Biochemical analysis revealed that metformin treatment significantly attenuated nitro-oxidative stress markers malondialdehyde (MDA), advanced protein oxidation product (APOP), and excessive nitric oxide (NO) levels in the liver of HFD fed rats. Gene expression analysis demonestrated that metformin treatment was associated with an enhanced expression of antioxidant genes such as Nrf-2, HO-1, SOD and catalase in liver of HFD fed rats. Metformin treatment also found to modulate the expression of fat metabolizing and anti-inflammatory genes including PPAR--γ, C/EBP-α, SREBP1c, FAS, AMPK and GLUT-4. Consistent with the biochemical and gene expression data, the histopathological examination unveiled that metformin treatment attenuated inflammatory cells infiltration, steatosis, hepatocyte necrosis, collagen deposition, and fibrosis in the liver of HFD fed rats. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study suggests that metformin might be effective in the prevention and treatment of HFD-induced steatosis by reducing hepatic oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver.

The novel reactive methylmethacrylate (MMA) thermoplastic resin (commercially known as Elium® resin) is the first liquid thermoplastic resin which is curable at room temperature. This resin is a competitive solution against traditional epoxy-based composites. In this work, novel non-crimp (NC) glass fabric/MMA resin composites were manufactured using a vacuum infusion process. Cellulose microcrystals (CMCs) were dispersed in the resin to improve the fibre/matrix interface and the composite properties. CMCs were first dispersed in the resin using an ultrasonication process and then the CMC/MMA resin suspension, mixed with a peroxide initiator, was infused into the reinforcing fabric. The amounts of CMCs dispersed in the resin were 0.5%, 1% and 2% (of the weight of the resin). The influence of CMCs on the interlaminar shear strength (interface), flexural properties, abrasive wear and dynamic-mechanical behaviour was thoroughly investigated. From the mechanical characterisation, it was observed that the addition of 1% CMC to the NC glass/MMA resin composites improved the flexural strength, interlaminar shear strength and wear performance by 30.77%, 38.04% and 22.27%, respectively as compared to the neat glass/MMA resin composite. Above this amount of CMC (i.e., 1 wt%), the properties started to degrade as a result of CMC agglomeration.

Leaves are essential vegetative organs of plants. Studying the variations in leaf nutrient content and microbial communities of male and female plants at reproductive stages helps us understand allocation and adaptation strategies. This study aimed to determine the nutrient characteristics and microbial differences in the leaves of male and female Idesia polycarpa at reproductive stages. Seven-year-old female and male plants were used as test materials in this experiment. The samples were collected at three stages: flowering (May), fruit matter accumulation (July), and fruit ripening (October). The nitrogen (TN), phosphorus (TP), potassium (TK), carbon (TC), and the pH of the female and male leaves were analyzed. In addition, the leaf microbial diversity and differential metabolites were determined using the Illumina high-throughput sequencing method and the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) method at the reproductive developmental stages. This study found that male and female plant leaves had different TN and TK contents over time but no difference in TC and TP content. The significant differences in bacterial diversity between male and female plants and the richness of the fungi of male plants at the flowering and fruit maturity stages were observed. Proteobacteria, Pseudomonadaceae, Ascomycota, and Aspergillus were the dominant bacteria and fungi in the Idesia polycarpa leaves. The presence of microorganisms differed in the two sexes in different periods. Alphaproteobacteria and Sordariomycetes were the indicator groups for male leaves, and Pseudomonas and Sordariomycetes were the indicator groups for female leaves. Significant differences in phenolic acid were found between male and female leaves. A KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that differential metabolites were enriched in metabolic pathways, amino acid biosynthesis, and the nucleotide metabolism. According to a correlation analysis, leaf TK and TP were strongly correlated with endophytic bacteria abundance and differential metabolite composition. This study revealed the changes in substances and microorganisms in the leaves of male and female plants in their reproductive stages. It provides a theoretical basis for developing and utilizing the leaves of Idesia polycarpa and for field management.

Abstract Background The Cholera-Hospital-Based-Intervention-for-7-Days (CHoBI7) is a handwashing with soap and water treatment intervention program delivered by a health promoter bedside in a health facility and through home visits to diarrhea patients and their household members during the 7 days after admission to a health facility. In a randomized controlled trial among cholera patient households in Bangladesh, the 7-day CHoBI7 program resulted in a significant reduction in cholera among household members of cholera patients and sustained improvements in drinking water quality and handwashing with soap practices 12 months post-intervention. In an effort to take this intervention to scale across Bangladesh in partnership with the Bangladesh Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, this study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of mobile health (mHealth) programs as a low-cost, scalable approach for CHoBI7 program delivery. Methods Formative research for the development of the CHoBI7 mHealth intervention included 40 semi-structured interviews, 4 mHealth workshops, 2 group discussions, and a pilot study of 52 households to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the developed mHealth program. Thematic analysis of the interviews and group discussions was conducted by two individuals separately based on emergent themes, and then themes were compared and discussed. Results A theory- and evidence-based approach using qualitative research methods was implemented to design the CHoBI7 mHealth program. Semi-structured interviews with government stakeholders identified perceptions and preferences for scaling the CHoBI7 mHealth program. Group discussions and semi-structured interviews with diarrhea patients and their family members identified beneficiary perceptions of mHealth and preferences for CHoBI7 mHealth program delivery. mHealth workshops were conducted as an interactive approach to draft and refine mobile message content based on stakeholder preferences. The pilot findings indicate that the CHoBI7 mHealth program has high user acceptability and is feasible to deliver to diarrhea patients that present at health facilities for treatment in Bangladesh. Both text and voice messages were recommended for program delivery. Dr. Chobi, the sender of mHealth messages, was viewed as a credible source of information that could be shared with others. Conclusion This study presents a theory- and evidence-based approach that can be implemented for the development of future water, sanitation, and hygiene mHealth programs in low-resource settings.

Pears are popular table fruits, grown and consumed worldwide for their excellent color, aroma, and taste. Volatile aroma is an important factor affecting fruit quality, and the fatty acid metabolism pathway is important in synthesizing volatile aromas. Most of the white pear varieties cultivated in China are not strongly scented, which significantly affects their overall quality. Panguxiang is a white pear cultivar, but its aroma has unique components and is strong. The study of the mechanisms by which aroma is formed in Panguxiang is, therefore, essential to improving the quality of the fruit. The study analyzed physiological and transcriptome factors to reveal the molecular network behind volatile aroma formation in Panguxiang. The samples of Panguxiang fruit were collected in two (fruit development at 60, 90, 120, and 147 days, and fruit storage at 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days) periods. A total of nine sample stages were used for RNA extraction and paired-end sequencing. In addition, RNA quantification and qualification, library preparation and sequencing, data analysis and gene annotation, gene co-expression network analysis, and validation of DEGs through quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-;PCR) were performed in this study. The WGCNA identified yellow functional modules and several biological and metabolic pathways related to fatty acid formation. Finally, we identified seven and eight hub genes in the fatty acid synthesis and fatty acid metabolism pathways, respectively. Further analysis of the co-expression network allowed us to identify several key transcription factors related to the volatile aroma, including AP2/ERF-ERF, C3H, MYB, NAC, C2H2, GRAS, and Trihelix, which may also be involved in the fatty acid synthesis. This study lays a theoretical foundation for studying volatile compounds in pear fruits and provides a theoretical basis for related research in other fruits.

Meadow soil is a vital ecosystem component and can be influenced by meadow vegetation. Evaluating soil quality in mountain meadows subjected to different levels of tourism disturbance is essential for scientific research, ecological restoration, and sustainable management. This study aimed to evaluate meadow soil quality at different tourism-disturbance levels and attempted to establish a minimum data set (MDS) with compatible indicators for soil quality assessment of subtropical mountain meadows. We analyzed fifteen soil physical, chemical, and biological indicators in control check (CK), light disturbance (LD), medium disturbance (MD), and severe disturbance (SD) meadow areas in Wugong Mountain, west of Jiangxi, China. In addition, a soil quality index (SQI) was determined using the established MDS based on the integrated soil quality index. Average soil permeability, soil pH, available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), and number of fungal OTUs were finally introduced into the MDS to evaluate meadow soil quality at different tourism-disturbance levels. The study found that the soil of the Wugong Mountain meadow was acidic, the bulk density was loose, and the nutrient content was rich. Additionally, SQI decreased with increase in tourism-disturbance level. The mean SQI values of the Wugong Mountain meadow areas were: CK, 0.612; LD, 0.493; MD, 0.448; and SD, 0.416. Our results demonstrate that the SQI based on the MDS method could be a valuable tool with which to indicate the soil quality of mountain meadow areas, and the SQI can be regarded as a primary indicator of ecological restoration and sustainable management.

Introduction: Tragia involucrata L. have been utilized as traditional medicine in Indian subcontinent for the treatment of numerous illnesses such as inflammation, pain and skin infection. In this current study we sought to assess the anxiolytic, sedative and analgesic activity of Tragia involucrata L. leaves extract. Materials and methods: We first performed a phytochemical screening test of the leaves extracts following standard phytochemical screening protocols. We next examined the anxiolytic and sedative activity of crude methanol (TIME), ethyl acetate (TIEAE) and n-Hexane (TIHE) extract of Tragia involucrata L. leaves using mouse behavioral models such as elevated plus-maze test and pentobarbital-induced sleeping time test, respectively. Likewise, we evaluated the analgesic activity using acetic acid induced writhing test and formalin induced paw licking test. Additionally, we performed a quantitative analysis of heavy metals content of Tragia involucrata L. leaves by overnight digestion in concentrated nitric acid (HNO3). Results: Phytochemical screening demonstrated that TIME, TIEAE and TIHE contain flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenols, terpenoids and sterols. Administration of these extracts resulted in higher number of open arm entry, lower number of close arm entry and higher time spent in open arm compared to control treatment (p < 0.05). Moreover, these treatments decreased the onset of sleep time and increased the duration of sleep compared to control treated mice (all p < 0.05). Likewise, extracts treated mice exhibited decreased number of writhing as well as lower acute phase and late phase duration compared to control treatment (all p < 0.05). The average level of As and Fe in Tragia involucrata L. leaves was 5.16 ± 0.012 ppm and 2.76 ± 0.015 ppm, respectively. Conclusion: Results from this study support that Tragia involucrata L. leaves extracts exhibit an anxiolytic, sedative and analgesic activity in mice.

Breast cancer ranked second among most frequent cancer in the world playing a significant role in mortality rate. Having prior knowledge on differentially expressed genes in breast cell carcinoma elucidated important indications to understand the molecular mechanism underneath breast carcinogenesis. In this study we have investigated the distinguished CSN1S1 expression in human breast cancer. We have analyzed CSN1S1 mRNA expression between cancer and normal tissues using TCGA datasets. Moreover, analysis including promoter methylation, mutations, prognosis, co-expression, gene ontology, and pathways of CSN1S1 were performed by the TCGA Wanderer, UCSC Xena, cBioPortal, PrognoScan, UALCAN, and Enricher server. We have observed low mRNA expression and high promoter methylation of CSN1S1 in cancer tissues compared to normal tissues. Furthermore, we have also identified low mRNA expression in clinicopathological patients, as well as 9 deleterious mutations with highly co-expressed protein MRC1, and significantly related signaling pathways. We have found a positive correlation between the lower expression of CSN1S1 and patients surviving with breast cancer. Here we have concluded that CSN1S1 acts as a biomarker for the surveillance and prognosis of breast cancer, and also works as a novel therapeutic target at the molecular and pathway levels.

A Zeonex based loss hollow-core anti-resonant fiber (HC-ARF) for polarization filter (PF) application in the terahertz (THz) spectral range is presented here. The finite element method, a practical and precise computational technique, is used to compute the modal properties of the designed fiber. Simulation results indicate minimum loss of 0.34 dB/m at 1.1 THz, a loss less than 2 dB/m for a large bandwidth of 460 GHz in the horizontal polarization mode (HPM) due to the inclusion of nested tubes in that direction. In addition, a 520 GHz filtering bandwidth with crosstalk higher than 20 dB can be obtained within 1 m of the proposed fiber.

This paper reports the use of cellulose microcrystals (CMCs) for improving fibre-matrix interface, mechanical, dynamic mechanical and thermal degradation behaviour of glass fibre reinforced epoxy composites. An ultrasonic treatment for 1 h was used to disperse CMCs (1–3 wt%) within an epoxy resin, which was subsequently infused through glass fabrics to develop hierarchical composites containing both macro and micro-scale reinforcements. It was observed that CMC dispersion in the epoxy resin was homogeneous at 1 wt% CMC and further increase in CMC concentrations led to linear increase in both agglomerate size and total agglomerated area. Addition of 1 wt% CMC to the composite matrix drastically changed the glass fibre-epoxy interface and led to a maximum improvement of 65% in interlaminar shear strength, 14% in tensile strength, 76% in flexural strength, 111% and 119% in fracture energy in tensile and flexural modes, 9.4% in impact strength, 13.5% in storage modulus, 21.9% in loss modulus and 13 °C in the glass transition temperature of composites. Therefore, the use of CMCs could be an industrially viable, economical and eco-friendly approach of developing hierarchical glass fibre composites with considerably improved performance. Keywords: Glass fibre composites, Cellulose microcrystals, Fibre-matrix interface, Mechanical properties, Fracture energy, Dynamic mechanical performance

Petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of the stem bark of Albizia lebbeck and Acacia nilotica was investigated for antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxicity assay. The powdered stem bark was extracted successively with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol solution. The crude extracts were subjected to antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxicity assay by using disc diffusion method, DPPH and hydroxyl free radical scavenging assay, and brine shrimp lethality test, respectively. The petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts of both plants showed the most prominent activity in antimicrobial susceptibility test as compared to methanol extracts. These extracts showed moderate activity against the Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio mimicus, Salmonella typhi, Shigella dysenteriae, Candida arrizae and Aspergillus niger. The zone of inhibition against the tested bacteria and fungi were 11–14 mm and 8–10 mm, respectively. The ethyl acetate extract of both plants showed the highest antioxidant and cytotoxic activity when compared with that of petroleum ether and methanol extracts. All the tested extracts showed higher free radical scavenging activity than that of the standard, ascorbic acid. In compared with A. lebbeck, A. nilotica was found to have the lower IC50 value which was 74.29 µg/ml and 68.03 µg/ml in DPPH and hydroxyl free radical scavenging assay, respectively. The LC50 value was 42.36 and 37.32 µg/ml for the ethyl acetate extract of A. lebbeck and A. nilotica, respectively. We suggest further study for the identification of active compounds from the bark extracts of A. lebbeck and A. nilotica.

The training achievement was determined based on difference between the score of pre and post evaluation score. The training was found effective in terms of training achievement. The average pre training score was 71.60% and thus, the training was mainly arranged for unemployed youth that had lack of proper knowledge for self employment and development. During training, the participants faced many problems such as lack of modern laboratory, budget comes after training, lack of permanent library, food and accommodation condition of the hostel and poor training allowance (500 Taka per trainee/month). Besides lack of sufficient credit facilities after training is also one of the problems. The trainees were also suggested for probable solutions of the problems faced during their training. [Fundam Appl Agric 2018; 3(1.000): 347-354]

It was highlighted that the original article [1] contained an error in the title. Additionally, Table 2 contained a typesetting mistake. This Correction article shows the incorrect and correct article title and Table 2. The original article has been updated.

In this work, multi-scale cementitious composites containing short carbon fibers (CFs) and carbon nanofibers (CNFs)/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were studied for their tensile stress sensing properties. CF-based composites were prepared by mixing 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 wt.% CFs (of cement) with water using magnetic stirring and Pluronic F-127 surfactant and adding the mixture to the cement paste. In multi-scale composites, CNFs/MWCNTs (0.1 and 0.15 wt.% of cement) were dispersed in water using Pluronic F-127 and ultrasonication and CFs were then added before mixing with the cement paste. All composites showed a reversible change in the electrical resistivity with tensile loading; the electrical resistivity increased and decreased with the increase and decrease in the tensile load/stress, respectively. Although CF-based composites showed the highest stress sensitivity among all specimens at 0.25% CF content, the fractional change in resistivity (FCR) did not show a linear correlation with the tensile load/stress. On the contrary, multi-scale composites containing CNFs (0.15% CNFs with 0.75% CFs) and MWCNTs (0.1% MWCNTs with 0.5% CFs) showed good stress sensitivity, along with a linear correlation between FCR and tensile load/stress. Stress sensitivities of 6.36 and 11.82%/MPa were obtained for the best CNF and MWCNT-based multi-scale composite sensors, respectively.

Neutron and gamma irradiation is known to compact silica, resulting in macroscopic changes in refractive index (RI) and geometric structure. The change in RI and linear compaction in a radiation environment is caused by three well-known mechanisms: (i) radiation-induced attenuation (RIA), (ii) radiation-induced compaction (RIC), and (iii) radiation-induced emission (RIE). These macroscopic changes induce errors in monitoring physical parameters such as temperature, pressure, and strain in optical fiber-based sensors, which limit their application in radiation environments. We present a cascaded Fabry–Perot interferometer (FPI) technique to measure macroscopic properties, such as radiation-induced change in RI and length compaction in real time to actively account for sensor drift. The proposed cascaded FPI consists of two cavities: the first cavity is an air cavity, and the second is a silica cavity. The length compaction from the air cavity is used to deduce the RI change within the silica cavity. We utilize fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm and two bandpass filters for the signal extraction of each cavity. Inclusion of such a simple cascaded FPI structure will enable accurate determination of physical parameters under the test.

Abstract Background The management of congenital talipes equino varus (clubfoot deformity) has been transformed in the last 20 years as surgical correction has been replaced by the non-surgical Ponseti method. The Ponseti method, consists of corrective serial casting followed by maintenance bracing, and has been repeatedly demonstrated to give best results - regarded as the ‘gold standard’ treatment for paediatric clubfoot. Methods To develop the study protocol Level 2 evidence was used to modify the corrective casting phase of the Ponseti method in children aged up to 12 months. Using Level 4 evidence, the percutaneous Achilles tenotomy (PAT) was performed using a 19-gauge needle instead of a scalpel blade, a technique found to reduce bleeding and scarring. Results A total of 123 children participated in this study; 88 male, 35 female. Both feet were affected in 67 cases, left only in 22 cases, right only in 34 cases. Typical clubfeet were found in 112/123 cases, six atypical, five syndromic. The average age at first cast was 51 days (13–240 days). The average number of casts applied was five (2–10 casts). The average number of days between the first cast and brace was 37.8 days (10–122 days), including 21 days in a post-PAT cast. Hence, average time of corrective casts was 17 days. Parents preferred the reduced casting time, and were less concerned about unseen skin wounds. PAT was performed in 103/123 cases, using the needle technique. All post tenotomy casts were in situ for three weeks. Minor complications occurred in seven cases - four cases had skin lesions, three cases disrupted casting phase. At another site, 452 PAT were performed using the needle technique. Conclusions The ‘fast cast’ protocol Ponseti casting was successfully used in infants aged less than 8 months. Extended manual manipulation of two minutes was the essential modification. Parents preferred the faster treatment phase, and ability to closer observe the foot and skin. The treating physiotherapists preferred the ‘fast cast’ protocol, achieving better correction with less complication. The needle technique for PAT is a further improvement for the Ponseti method.

This research inspects the utilization of domestic space management in marginalized slums of Bangladesh towards comprehending the contribution of urban poor women’s informal employment as a private initiative. The components that influence the physical association of “home-based enterprises” (HBEs) spaces and its quality are assessed concerning the survival pattern of the low-income occupants. Further, the neighborhood and housing attributes, cultural and social, and the financial status of individuals living in slums are analyzed by in-depth interviews with questionnaires. A stratified random sampling method was used to choose 44 households in two notable neighborhoods in Dhaka City. Data was elicited through focus groups of inhabitants using qualitative research method. Thus, structured and open-ended interviews were conducted with household female members who are 18 years and above while participant observation at moderate level ensured the trustworthiness of the data. The differences observed quality and features of spaces in those settlements inhabited by the slum dwellers gave insight on the factors. The study discovered the prospect of women’s domestic spaces of home-based work in their dwelling spaces. Thereafter, the research recommends that future interferences should counter critically to the event of participation and strife contributing towards uplifting women’s situation inside a specific dwelling.

Seasonal variations of proximate compositions, amino acids, and fatty acids contents of Monopterus cuchia were studied for the first time in Bangladesh. The fat and fatty acid, protein and amino acid contents showed a significant seasonal dependency. Lipid contents showed the wider variation than the protein contents. Among the 14 recorded amino acids, the primary amino acids were lysine, glutamic acid, arginine, glycine and aspartic acid. The ratio of essential and non-essential amino acids was higher in the post-monsoon season (0.69) than pre-monsoon (0.68) and monsoon season (0.68) and did not show seasonal discrepancies. The amount of fatty acids were found in order of saturated fatty acids (SFA) > mono unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) > polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The predominant fatty acids were palmitic and stearic acids of SFAs, oleic and palmitoleic acid of MUFAs and linoleic and α linolenic acids of PUFAs group. The combined value of EPA+DHA varied from 1.44–5.34% depending on the season, with the highest in monsoon season. However, the n-6/n-3 ratios were notably lower (0.58–2.51) throughout the season than the greatest esteem of 4. Therefore, M. cuchia may be consumed as healthy as safe food with reference to n-6/n-3 ratio, irrespective of catching seasons.

As milk provides both micro- and macronutrients, it is an important component in the diet. However, the presence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in the feed of dairy cattle results in contamination of milk and dairy products with aflatoxin M1 (AFM1), a toxic metabolite of the carcinogenic mycotoxin. With the aim to determine AFM1 concentrations in milk and milk products consumed in Bangladesh, in total, 145 samples were collected in four divisional regions (Sylhet, Dhaka, Chittagong, and Rajshahi). The samples comprised these categories: raw milk (n = 105), pasteurized milk (n = 15), ultra-high temperature (UHT)-treated milk (n = 15), fermented milk products such as yogurt (n = 5), and milk powder (n = 5). AFM1 levels in these samples were determined through competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Overall, AFM1 was present in 78.6% of milk and milk products in the range of 5.0 to 198.7 ng/L. AFM1 was detected in 71.4% of raw milk (mean 41.1, range 5.0–198.7 ng/L), and in all pasteurized milk (mean 106, range 17.2–187.7 ng/L) and UHT milk (mean 73, range 12.2–146.9 ng/L) samples. Lower AFM1 levels were found in yogurt (mean 16.9, range 8.3–41.1 ng/L) and milk powder samples (mean 6.6, range 5.9–7.0 ng/L). About one-third of the raw, pasteurized, and UHT milk samples exceeded the EU regulatory limit (50 ng/L) for AFM1 in milk, while AFM1 levels in yogurt and milk powder samples were well below this limit. Regarding regions, lower AFM1 contamination was observed in Chittagong (mean 6.6, max 10.6 ng/L), compared to Sylhet (mean 53.7, max 198.7 ng/L), Dhaka (mean 37.8, max 97.2 ng/L), and Rajshahi (mean 34.8, max 131.4 ng/L). Yet, no significant difference was observed in AFM1 levels between summer and winter season. In conclusion, the observed frequency and levels of aflatoxin contamination raise concern and must encourage further monitoring of AFM1 in milk and milk products in Bangladesh.

Optical fiber sensors (OFS) are a potential candidate for monitoring physical parameters in nuclear environments. However, under an irradiation field the optical response of the OFS is modified via three primary mechanisms: (i) radiation-induced attenuation (RIA), (ii) radiation-induced emission (RIE), and (iii) radiation-induced compaction (RIC). For resonance-based sensors, RIC plays a significant role in modifying their performance characteristics. In this paper, we numerically investigate independently the effects of RIC and RIA on three types of OFS widely considered for radiation environments: fiber Bragg grating (FBG), long-period grating (LPG), and Fabry-Perot (F-P) sensors. In our RIC modeling, experimentally calculated refractive index (RI) changes due to low-dose radiation are extrapolated using a power law to calculate density changes at high doses. The changes in RI and length are subsequently calculated using the Lorentz–Lorenz relation and an established empirical equation, respectively. The effects of both the change in the RI and length contraction on OFS are modeled for both low and high doses using FIMMWAVE, a commercially available vectorial mode solver. An in-depth understanding of how radiation affects OFS may reveal various potential OFS applications in several types of radiation environments, such as nuclear reactors or in space.

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.

Self-sensing composites are becoming highly attractive for civil engineering applications to improve the safety and performance of structures. These smart composites show a detectable change in their electrical resistivity with applied stress or strain and this unique characteristic make them useful for health monitoring of structures. Till date, different forms of carbon composites, i.e. short fibre, continuous fibre, particles, nano fibres, nanotubes, etc. have been utilized for this purpose. In this context, the present paper reports an overview of different self-sensing composite systems used for the health monitoring of civil engineering structures.

Brick kiln is a big environmental issue for the agriculture of Bangladesh as it was observed that the agricultural production in the soil close to the brick kiln was lesser than the same soil far from brick kiln. The study was conducted to assess the impact of brick kiln operation to the degradation of topsoil quality at Singair of Kalihati upazila in Tangail, Bangladesh, during the period of July to December 2013. The Soil was collected from areas close to the brick fields and far from the brick fields at a depth of 0-15 cm. The Electrical Conductance (EC) was found almost double in the soil samples close to the brick field than the soil samples far from brick field. The organic mattter content in the soil sample close to the brickfield was significantly lower than that of the far soil sample. The mean values of total N, available P and S were also significantly lower in the soil samples close to the brick kiln, 0.05%, 12.4, and 8.36 ppm respectively in the close soils, while 0.06%, 24.6, and 11.7 ppm respectively in the far soil. There were no significant changes observed in the other elements.

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the interaction between ketotifen fumarate and anhydrous theophylline in aqueous media of various pH (1.2 and 6.8). Using Job's continuous-variation analysis and Ardon's spectrophotomeric measurement methods, the values of the stability constants of theophylline with ketotifen were determined at a fixed temperature (37 ºC) at various pH. The stability constants, ranging between 5.66 and 9.92, were derived from Ardon's plot, indicating that comparatively stable complexes had formed as a result of an interaction between the drugs. However, following the interaction of theophylline with ketotifen, stability constants were O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar a interação entre o fumarato de cetotifeno e a teofilina anidra em meios aquosos com vários pH (1,2 e 6,8). Utilizando a análise da variação contínua de Job e os métodos de medida espectrofotométrica de Ardon, os valores das constantes de estabilidade da teofilina com o cetotifeno foram determinados em temperatura fixa (37 oC) em vários pH. As constantes de estabilidade, variando entre 5,66 e 9,92 derivaram-se a partir do delineamento de Ardon, indicando, comparativamente, que complexos estáveis se formaram como resultado da interação entre os fármacos. Entretanto, seguindo a interação da teofilina com o cetotifeno, as constantes de estabilidade foram

In this paper, a high sensitivity, polarization preserving photonic crystal fiber (PCF), based on circular air holes for sensing in the terahertz (THz) band, is presented. The finite element method, a practical and precise computational technique for describing the interactions between light and matter, is used to compute the modal properties of the designed fiber. For the designed PCF, comprising of circular air holes in both the cladding and in the porous core, a relative sensitivity of 73.5% and a high birefringence of 0.013 are achieved at 1.6 THz. The all circular air-hole structure, owing to its simplicity and compatibility with the current fiber draw technique for PCF fabrication, can be realized practically. It is anticipated that the designed fiber can be employed in applications such as detection of biological samples and toxic chemicals, imaging, and spectroscopy.

Thermoelectric technology is thought to be a great solution in near future for producing electrical power and recovering low grade waste heat to cut the cost of power generation because of its consistency and eco-friendly affability. Though commercial accessibility of TEG is available currently but heat to electricity conversion efficiency is still low and cost of the module is reasonably high. It’s essential to use the modules competently which is strongly depends on suitable heat exchanger design and selection of proper operating conditions. In this work, TEG module has been selected from the commercially available modules with efficiency of 1.91% for the targeted low-grade waste heat temperature of Th=90°C and Tc=15°C which validated by experiment. Mathematical model has been proposed to simulate TEG based power generation system; the model can predict maximum net power, choose optimum operating conditions and dimensions of heat exchanger. Lab scale design with channel length 1 m, width 0.08 m and gap size 9 mm which is suitable for 50 TEG module (4 mm x 4 mm) have been simulated using proposed mathematical model. For above temperature range, predicted optimum net power was 76.45 W with optimum flow rate 0.94 L/s (56.4 L/min). This lab scale setup will be used for experimental validation of the proposed mathematical model. The obtained results from experiments and simulation are closely matched.

Despite the current energy crisis, a large amount of low grade heat (below 100oC) is being wasted for the lack of cost effective energy conversion technology. In the case of the conventional Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) based geothermal power stations, only about 20% of available heat can be utilised due to a technological limitation as there is a phase change in the working fluid involved during the addition of heat which decreases utilisation effectiveness of the system. Therefore, in this paper, a trilateral flash cycle (TFC) based system has been studied to find out its prospect for utilizing more power from the same heat resources as the ORC. The TFC is a thermodynamic cycle that heats the working fluid as a saturated liquid from which it starts its expansion stage. The flash expansion is achieved by feeding the saturated high-pressured liquid working fluid through a convergent-divergent nozzle at which point it undergoes a flash expansion in the low-pressure environment of the generator housing. The momentum of the working fluid is extracted via a Pelton wheel and the cycle is completed with working fluid condensation and pressurisation. The analytical comparative study between the ORC and TFC based system shows that the TFC has about 50% more power generation capability and almost zero contribution on global warming.

Stability selection (multisplit) approach is a variable selection procedure which relies on multisplit data to overcome the shortcomings that may occur to single-split data. Unfortunately, this procedure yields very poor results in the presence of outliers and other contamination in the original data. The problem becomes more complicated when the regression residuals are serially correlated. This paper presents a new robust stability selection procedure to remedy the combined problem of autocorrelation and outliers. We demonstrate the good performance of our proposed robust selection method using real air quality data and simulation study.

In this paper, we numerically demonstrate a two-layer circular lattice photonic crystal fiber (PCF) biosensor based on the principle of surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The finite element method (FEM) with circular perfectly matched layer (PML) boundary condition is applied to evaluate the performance of the proposed sensor. A thin gold layer is deposited outside the PCF structure, which acts as the plasmonic material for this design. The sensing layer (analyte) is implemented in the outermost layer, which permits easy and more practical fabrication process compared to analyte is put inside the air holes. It is demonstrated that, at gold layer thickness of 40 nm, the proposed sensor shows maximum sensitivity of 2200 nm/RIU using the wavelength interrogation method in the sensing range between 1.33–1.36. Besides, using an amplitude interrogation method, a maximum sensitivity of 266 RIU−1 and a maximum sensor resolution of 3.75 × 10−5 RIU are obtained. We also discuss how phase matching points are varied with different fiber parameters. Owing to high sensitivity and simple design, the proposed sensor may find important applications in biochemical and biological analyte detection.

In the present study, core-reinforced braided composite rods (BCRs) were developed and characterized for strain sensing capability. A mixture of carbon and glass fibre was used in the core, which was surrounded by a braided cover of polyester fibres. Three compositions of core with different carbon fibre/glass fibre weight ratios (23/77, 47/53, and 100/0) were studied to find out the optimum composition for both strain sensitivity and mechanical performance. The influence of carbon fibre positioning in BCR cross-section on the strain sensing behaviour was also investigated. Strain sensing property of BCRs was characterized by measuring the change in electrical resistance with flexural strain. It was observed that BCRs exhibited increase (positive response) or decrease (negative response) in electrical resistance depending on carbon fibre positioning. The BCR with lowest amount of carbon fibre was found to give the best strain sensitivity as well as the highest tensile strength and breaking extension. The developed BCRs showed reversible strain sensing behaviour under cyclic flexural loading with a maximum gauge factor of 23.4 at very low strain level (0.55%). Concrete beams reinforced with the optimum BCR (23/77) also exhibited strain sensing under cyclic flexural strain, although the piezoresistive behaviour in this case was irreversible.