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Acute-onset quadriparesis is not only debilitating and a grave concern for the patient but also perturbs the clinician as it demands early diagnosis and prompt management to prevent catastrophic outcome due to respiratory failure. Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and hypokalaemia are notorious causes of acute-onset lower motor neuron (LMN) quadriparesis and warrant a rapid evaluation to necessitate early management. However, coexistence of these two entities is extremely rare and may pose a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge and mandates exclusion of either condition to avoid a poor outcome. We hereby report a case of a young woman who presented with an acute-onset LMN quadriparesis, initially found to have significant hypokalaemia with poor response to supplementation and was further evaluated to have an axonal variant of GBS.

The cause-specific hazard function plays an important role in developing the regression models for competing risks survival data. Proportional hazards and additive hazards are the commonly used regression approaches in survival analysis. Mostly, in literature, the proportional hazards model was used for parametric regression modelling of survival data. In this article, we introduce a parametric additive hazards regression model for survival analysis with competing risks. For employing a parametric model we consider the modified Weibull distribution as a baseline model which is capable to model survival data with non-monotonic behaviour of hazard rate. The estimation process is carried out via maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches. In addition to Bayesian methods, a class of non-informative types of prior is introduced with squared error (symmetric) and linear-exponential (asymmetric) loss functions. The relative performance of the different estimators is assessed using Monte Carlo simulation. Finally, using the proposed methodology, a real data analysis is performed.

In this article, mixed fuzzy topology and its topological properties have been studied. Mixed fuzzy topology is defined with the help of quasi-coincidence and closure of a fuzzy set in one of the fuzzy topologies. Thus, a new fuzzy topology is generated from the given two fuzzy topologies. This new fuzzy topology may or may not contain the topological properties of the parent topologies. This study identifies some topological properties that are carried to the mixed fuzzy topology from the given parent fuzzy topologies and some other properties which are not carried to the mixed fuzzy topology. Here a base for mixed fuzzy topology from the bases of the given parent topologies is constructed. Considering the regularity of one of the parent topologies mixed fuzzy topology is investigated. Hausdorff’s properties of mixed fuzzy topological spaces are also discussed. It is now of general interest to know which properties are carried to the mixed topology and which are not. A few of these are being tried to answer here in this paper.

Abstract: Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are a relatively new class of technical materials with a variety of unique and beneficial features. CNT is a revolutionary carrier technology for both tiny and big medicinal compounds. These formulations can be surface engineered and functionalized with predefined functional groups to control their physical and biological characteristics. CNTs have proven potential for cancer therapy along with other target-oriented therapy due to their unique features, such as ease of cell viability, high drug stacking, thermal ablation, and exceptional intrinsic physical and chemical characteristics. Graphite with Sp2 bonded carbon atoms is used for the synthesis of CNT. CNTs are fabricated in a variety of ways, including arc discharge, laser ablation, chemical vapor deposition, flame synthesis, and silane solution. The present review summarises methods of preparation, types, and various applications of CNT.

Abstract: In recent years, the green synthesis of different metal nanoparticles has become a substantial technique for the synthesis of different essential nanoparticles and their potential applications in technological, industrial along with biomedical fields. Among the several essential nanoparticles, copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) have attracted enormous attention for their wide range of applications like the production of gas sensors, solar cells, high-temperature superconductors as well as drug delivery materials and catalysis owing to its distinctive optical, electrical, dielectric, imaging and catalytic, etc. properties. Herein, in this review, our aim is to find out the recent progress of synthesis, as well as different optical and structural characterizations of green, synthesized CuNPs along with their broadspectrum biomedical applications, mainly antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anticancer as well as the future perspective of research trends in the green synthesis of CuNPs. CuNPs have been synthesized by different researchers using three methods, namely, physical, chemical, and biological. In this review, the eco-friendly, efficient and low cost different established biological/green synthesis methods of CuNPs using different plant extracts like leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, latex, etc., as capping and reducing agents have been briefly discussed, along with reaction conditions together with their optical as well as structural analysis. Effects of different parameters on the green synthesis of CuNPs like the presence of phytochemicals and confirmation of phytochemicals, temperature, pH, etc., are elucidated. Studies of the antibacterial activity of biomolecules capped CuNPs by different researchers against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains along with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values have been summarized. Furthermore, antifungal and antiviral effects of green synthesized CuNPs studied by different researchers are mentioned with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values. The anticancer activity of green synthesized CuNPs against different cancer cells studied by different researchers is summarized with correlation sizes of CuNPs on anticancer activity. The review also focuses on in vivo applications of green synthesized CuNPs along with clinical trails. Furthermore, an emphasis is given to the effectiveness of CuNPs in combating COVID-19.

Polymyositis is an immune-mediated inflammatory myopathy usually presenting with weakness of proximal muscles in a symmetric pattern. Generalised subcutaneous oedema as presenting feature of inflammatory myopathy, especially polymyositis, has rarely been reported. We report here a case of a young woman who was admitted to our facility with generalised severe subcutaneous oedema. During hospital stay, she gradually developed significant proximal muscle weakness with bulbar symptoms. The initial presentation of the patient masqueraded with other causes of anasarca. However, detailed clinical features, laboratory evaluation, electromyography and muscle biopsy clinched the diagnosis of polymyositis. She was treated with systemic corticosteroids and azathioprine. The patient responded well to treatment and the swelling gradually subsided.

Background: The pattern of bacterial infection in acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis is varied with geographical area and lobar distribution of bronchiectasis. The exact pattern of bacterial infection in acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis according to lobar distribution is not known in our country. This study aimed to investigate the pattern of bacterial infection in acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis according to lobar distribution. Methods: A total of eighty-four patients diagnosed with acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis were included in this cross-sectional study in the department of respiratory medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University. Sputum culture and real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to characterize the bacterial profile and high-resolution computed tomography scans for the location of the bronchiectasis. Before enrolment, informed written consent was obtained from the participants. Results: The mean (SD) age of this study population was 47.89 (±14.95) years, 29.8% were female and 60.7% were a non-smoker. Bronchiectasis was more common in the right middle lobe (63.1%), followed by the right lower lobe (44%), and the left lower lobe (42%). Bacteria were isolated in 66% of patients and Gram-negative bacteria were predominant (78.6%). Pseudomonas aeruginosa (25%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (17.9%) were the most common bacteria. Conclusions: Pseudomonas aeruginosa was identified predominantly in the right upper lobe, right middle lobe, left upper lobe, and bilateral upper lobe and Klebsiella pneumoniae was in the right lower lobe, left lower lobe, and bilateral lower lobe.

Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn (AG 1-IA) is one of the most devastating pathogens of rice causing sheath blight disease and being a prime reason for the unsatisfactory productivity of rice in India. The goal of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using an agriculturally important bacterium, Pseudomonas fluorescens OKC, in managing the sheath blight disease of rice. Successful biosynthesis of AgNPs was monitored by UV-visible spectroscopy, showing a peak at 432 nm. The AgNPs were further characterized using a Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The TEM result confirmed that the size of the synthesized nanoparticles was less than 100nm. DLS results revealed that the average particle size of the AgNPs was 74 nm and the zeta potential was -23.6 mV, indicating that the synthesized nanoparticles were of good stability at room temperature. The antifungal potential of AgNPs was tested against the test fungus in vitro and maximum growth inhibition was recorded in AgNPs treatment (69.09%) as compared to the control. Moreover, this result was further authenticated under net house conditions, where AgNPs successfully reduced the incidence of R.solani Kuhn. The findings showed that the biosynthesized AgNPs inhibited the growth of R. solani Kuhn and could be useful in the management of sheath blight disease in rice.

The scientific community has dedicated significant attention to climate change and climate variability in the past two decades, with numerous investigations focused on these topics. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's third and fourth assessment reports have provided clear evidence that the planet's climate has undergone significant changes since the pre-industrial era, resulting in a warmer phase. These changes have had severe effects on hydrological processes and the availability of water resources due to shifts in temperature and precipitation patterns. A better comprehension of climate change's impact on water resources can aid in developing sustainable strategies for their management and development. Hydrological models combined with climate models can offer a framework to comprehend and explore the interplay between climate, human activities, and water resources.

We introduce a new concept of three-states polarization converting metasurface (TS-PCM) based on p-i-n diodes. The proposed structure can offer three distinct wave manipulation functionalities: linear polarization to orthogonal linear polarization (LP-OLP), linear polarization to circular polarization (LP-CP), and linear polarization to full reflection (LP-FR) state. Unlike previous structures, the multiple conversion features are simultaneously achieved in different frequency ranges, depending on the operating state of diode (off or on). Finally, a sample prototype was fabricated and the experimental results were verified with the simulated ones.

Uncrewed aerial systems (UASs) are becoming very popular in the domain of water resource mapping and management (WRMM). Being a cheaper and quicker option capable of providing high temporal and spatial resolution data, UAS has become a much sought-after platform for remote sensing. Still, their application in the field is in its early stage. This paper encompasses basic concepts of UAS, different payloads and sensor technologies available, various methodologies for its application in WRMM, different software available, and challenges associated with them, thus presenting a comprehensive review of multiple applications of UAS in different sub-domains of water resources. From cryosphere, rivers and lakes, and coastal areas to sub-surface water, as well as from water quality to wastewater management, the authors have discussed various applications of uncrewed aerial vehicles. At the end of the paper, the authors have identified the issues posing problems in the wider implementation of UAS in WRMM. Also, the future scope of the UAS in WRMM has been discussed.

This cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the serum lipid profiles in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and its correlation with the severity of COPD in the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University. A total of 100 spirometric-confirmed cases of COPD were included. Fasting blood samples for lipid profiles were collected. To identify the association between severity of COPD with lipid profiles Pearson’s correlation was used. Further multiple linear regression was done to identify the relation. The mean (standard deviation) age of the patients was 59.0 (10.7)years. The ratio of males and females was 19:1. The mean forced expiratory volume (liters) in 1 second (FEV1) was 55.1 (18.1). Most of the patients had stage II (48%) and stage III (36%) airflow obstruction. Plasma level of total cholesterol and triglyceride tend to increase, statistically non-significant, with stages of COPD. However, the association of plasma lipids becomes statistically significant with FEV1 when the effects of age, BMI, pack-year smoking, duration of illness are accounted in multiple linear regression analysis. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Journal 2022;15(4):37-41

Background: Preeclampsia is a multisystem disorder characterized by new onset of hypertension systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg and proteinuria >300 mg/24 h arising after 20 weeks of gestation in a previously normotensive woman and associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Women with preeclampsia have an increased rate of cesarean section consequent upon the high incidence of intrauterine growth restriction, fetal distress, and prematurity. The aim of this study was to determine and compare maternal & neonatal outcome among pre-eclamptic women following caesarian delivery under general and spinal anesthesia. Material & Methods: This was a comparative observational study and was conducted in the Department of Anesthesiology of Holy Family red crescent Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from February,2020 to February,2023. In this study we included 250 preeclamptic women undergoing cesarean delivery. The patients were randomly divided into two groups – GA group (Patients who were given general anesthesia) & SA group (Patients who were given spinal anesthesia). Results: In total 250 patients from both the groups completed the study. In our study we found majority (44.8%) of our patients were aged 28-32 years. The mean age was 27.13 ± 3.76 years. Majority (62.8% ) of our patients were cases of emergency caesarean delivery & 37.2% were elective caesarean delivery classes. Most of the students (41.2%) used magnesium sulfate. Intraoperative systolic BP, diastolic BP was significantly lower in SA group than GA group. We found headache, vomiting, fever and wound gaping, postpartum hemorrhage & lower respiratory tract infection was significantly higher in GA group. On contrary, hypotension & pulmonary edema was higher in SA group. Apgar score at 1st, 5th & 10th minutes was significantly higher in GA group than SA group. In GA group, neonatal mortality at 48 h was 10.4% whereas it was 4.8% in SA group. Conclusion: In our study, we found intra-operative blood pressure and pulse rate was observed significantly higher in GA group than SA. Severe preeclamptic mothers receiving general anesthesia and their babies required more critical care support. Maternal as well as neonatal mortality was significantly higher with general anesthesia. Therefore, spinal anesthesia is a safer alternative to general anesthesia among women with severe preeclampsia following caesarean delivery with less postoperative morbidity and mortality.

Due to small size and lightweight properties, the development of microstrip (MS) patch antennas for wireless communication has become one of the mobile application devices in demand in recent years. This has helped to reduce reliance on wired cables. In this paper, a study has been performed on MS antenna by developing a quasi-Yagi structure on a fire retardant-4 (FR-4) substrate with a MS to coplanar strip line (CPS) transition feeding technique. The antenna is designed by using computer simulation technology (CST) to achieve the desired resonant frequency and bandwidth. The proposed dual band quasi-Yagi antenna has impedance bandwidths of approximately 0.3 GHz and 0.22 GHz resonating at 1.80 GHz and 2.60 GHz, respectively, which makes it suitable for long-term evolution (LTE) applications. Eight-director elements in four pairs are constructed to achieve directivity with magnitudes of 6 dB and 8.3 dBi at both resonant frequencies, 1.80 GHz and 2.60 GHz, respectively. Different parametric studies have also been performed to characterize the antenna radiation characteristics. The return loss, voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR), front to back (F/B) ratio and far-field radiation are analyzed and discussed.

We propose an extension to the MAPF formulation, called SocialMAPF, to account for private incentives of agents in constrained environments such as doorways, narrow hallways, and corridor intersections. SocialMAPF is able to, for instance, accurately reason about the urgent incentive of an agent rushing to the hospital over another agent's less urgent incentive of going to a grocery store; MAPF ignores such agent-specific incentives. Our proposed formulation addresses the open problem of optimal and efficient path planning for agents with private incentives. To solve SocialMAPF, we propose a new class of algorithms that use mechanism design during conflict resolution to simultaneously optimize agents' private local utilities and the global system objective. We perform an extensive array of experiments that show that optimal search-based MAPF techniques lead to collisions and increased time-to-goal in SocialMAPF compared to our proposed method using mechanism design. Furthermore, we empirically demonstrate that mechanism design results in models that maximizes agent utility and minimizes the overall time-to-goal of the entire system. We further showcase the capabilities of mechanism design-based planning by successfully deploying it in environments with static obstacles. To conclude, we briefly list several research directions using the SocialMAPF formulation, such as exploring motion planning in the continuous domain for agents with private incentives., Full paper submission to R-AL. Shorter Blue Sky paper version available at AIHRI/2022/1016