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This work focuses on the thermodynamic property calculations of seven copper‐based species, namely copper, copper oxide, copper hydroxide, copper nitrate, and copper hydroxide nitrate. The structures of these species were optimized to achieve stable geometries. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations were employed to obtain various thermodynamic properties such as entropy, enthalpy, Gibbs free energy, and heat capacity at constant pressure. A comparative investigation was performed on the temperature‐dependent behavior of key thermodynamic parameters. Species characterized by a higher quantity of atoms tend to demonstrate elevated thermodynamic properties. Copper and copper hydroxide nitrate had higher thermodynamic values than their oxides and other counterparts. It should be noted that the thermodynamic properties of copper hydroxide nitrate were newly computed, and the results showed that the thermodynamic values of the compound structure were higher than their crystalline counterparts. Moreover, due to the large structure size and solid phase, these thermodynamic values exhibited discrepancies with previously calculated computational and experimental values. The thermodynamic property values that depended on temperature were transformed into NASA 7‐Coefficient polynomials parameterization. The newly determined thermodynamic data and polynomials provide valuable insights into the thermodynamic behavior of copper‐based species. It will help better understand their surface sites and different crystalline structures. Such data can be used to better understand a variety of industrial processes, including combustion, gasification, chemical synthesis, and further to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize hazardous environmental emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sigma 2 receptor (σ2R) was described pharmacologically more than three decades ago, but its molecular identity remained obscure until recently when it was identified as transmembrane protein 97 (TMEM97). We and others have shown that σ2R/TMEM97 ligands alleviate mechanical hypersensitivity in mouse neuropathic pain models with a time course wherein maximal antinociceptive effect is approximately 24 h following dosing. We sought to understand this unique antineuropathic pain effect by addressing two key questions: do these σ2R/TMEM97 compounds act selectively via the receptor, and what is their downstream mechanism on nociceptive neurons? Using male and female conventional knockout mice for Tmem97, we find that a σ2R/TMEM97 binding compound, FEM-1689, requires the presence of the gene to produce antinociception in the spared nerve injury model in mice. Using primary mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons, we demonstrate that FEM-1689 inhibits the integrated stress response (ISR) and promotes neurite outgrowth via a σ2R/TMEM97-specific action. We extend the clinical translational value of these findings by showing that FEM-1689 reduces ISR and p-eIF2α levels in human sensory neurons and that it alleviates the pathogenic engagement of ISR by methylglyoxal. We also demonstrate that σ2R/TMEM97 is expressed in human nociceptors and satellite glial cells. These results validate σ2R/TMEM97 as a promising target for further development for the treatment of neuropathic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a new highly efficient numerical algorithm for nonlinear variable-order space fractional reaction–diffusion equations. The algorithm is based on a new method developed by using the Gaussian quadrature pole rational approximation. A splitting technique is used to address the issues related to computational efficiency and the stability of the method. Two linear systems need to be solved using the same real-valued discretization matrix. The stability and convergence of the method are discussed analytically and demonstrated through numerical experiments by solving test problems from the literature. The variable-order diffusion effects on the solution profiles are illustrated through graphs. Finally, numerical experiments demonstrate the superiority of the presented method in terms of computational efficiency, accuracy, and reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors described hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, mainly preeclampsia and chronic hypertension in pregnancy, by discussing the pathophysiology, the central role of abnormal placentation, the release of antiangiogenic factors in the circulation and immunological factors, the clinical outcome in the mother and the fetus, and the diagnostic criteria and principles of management of both conditions. They also discussed possible screening methods and prevention of preeclampsia using low-dose aspirin and eclampsia prophylaxis. Hypertensive disorder of pregnancy is a common complication during pregnancy that affects approximately 10% of pregnancies and is responsible for nearly 14% of maternal deaths worldwide. It affects the mother and the fetus simultaneously, sometimes putting the health of the mother and the fetus at odds with each other. It may present with only hypertension and proteinuria or with life-threatening complications in the mother such as eclampsia; stroke; acute pulmonary edema; acute renal failure; disseminated intravascular coagulation; placental abruption; hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet syndrome; pregnancy loss; and fetal growth restriction and prematurity resulting from the frequent need of delivering preterm in the fetus. In this review, we aimed to describe hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, mainly preeclampsia and chronic hypertension in pregnancy, by discussing the pathophysiology, the central role of abnormal placentation, the release of antiangiogenic factors in the circulation and immunological factors, the clinical outcome in the mother and the fetus, and the diagnostic criteria and principles of management of both the conditions. We also discuss possible screening methods and prevention of preeclampsia using low-dose aspirin and eclampsia prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider a two dimensional partial differential integral equation (PDIE) model for pricing American option. A nonlinear rationality parameter function for two asset problems is introduced to deal with the free boundary. The rationality parameter function is added in the PDIEs used for pricing American option problems under multi‐state regime switching with jumps. The resulting two dimensional nonlinear system of PDIE is then numerically solved. Based on real poles rational approximation, a strongly stable highly efficient and reliable method is developed to solve such complicated systems of PIDEs. The method is build in a predictor corrector style which makes it linearly implicit, therefore, avoids solving nonlinear systems of equations at each time step in all regimes. The method is seen to maintain the stability and convergence for large jump sizes and high volatility in each regime. The impact of regime switching on option prices corresponding to different values interest rate, volatility, and rationality parameter is computed, illustrated by graphs and given in the tables. Convergence results in each regime are presented and time evolution graphs are given to show the effectiveness and reliability of the method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uterine infections often lead to culling of valuable animals from a herd, resulting in genetic drain. The genetic potential of problematic females could be harvested by in‐vitro embryo production. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of clinical endometritis on follicular dynamics, recovery, quality, gene expression, nuclear maturation and in‐vitro developmental competence of oocytes in Sahiwal cattle. The B‐mode ultrasonography was performed to examine the uterus for the presence of pus. Based on the history and reproductive examination of cows, a total of twelve (n = 12) Sahiwal cattle were selected for the experiment: (1) healthy group (n = 6) and (2) clinical endometritis group (n = 6). The 1st ovum pick‐up (OPU) was conducted on day 165 postpartum. The collected cumulus oocytes complexes (COCs) were graded into A, B, C and D grades depending on the number of layers of cumulus cells and homogeneous nature of cytoplasm. Nuclear maturation was assessed by staining the oocytes with Hoechst 33,342. The results revealed that the number of medium‐sized follicle (1.3 ± 0.1 versus 0.6 ± 0.1) and total number of follicles (9.1 ± 0.7 versus 6.6 ± 0.7) were higher (p <.05) in the healthy group as compared to clinical endometritis group, respectively. Similarly, the number of oocytes recovered (5.0 ± 0.4 versus 2.8 ± 0.4), oocytes with grade A, B and C (2.9 ± 0.3 versus 1.5 ± 0.3), proportion of oocytes with grade A or B (33 ± 0.0 versus 20 ± 0.1) and nuclear maturation (68 ± 0.1 versus 55 ± 0.1) were also higher (p <.05) in the healthy group as compared to clinical endometritis group, respectively. Perhaps, cleavage rate (55.1 ± 0.1 versus 46.2 ± 0.1) and blastocyst rate (29.7 ± 0.0 versus 26.3 ± 0.1) did not differ (p >.05) between the groups. Likewise, the expression level of growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) in immature oocytes did not differ (p >.05) between both the groups. In conclusion, clinical endometritis has a negative effect on follicular dynamics, oocyte recovery, oocyte quality and nuclear maturation; furthermore, the developmental competence of COCs is not compromised by it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distributed-order, space-fractional diffusion equations are used to describe physical processes that lack power-law scaling. A fourth-order-accurate, A-stable time-stepping method was developed, analyzed, and implemented to solve inhomogeneous parabolic problems having Riesz-space-fractional, distributed-order derivatives. The considered problem was transformed into a multi-term, space-fractional problem using Simpson's three-eighths rule. The method is based on an approximation of matrix exponential functions using fourth-order diagonal Padé approximation. The Gaussian quadrature approach is used to approximate the integral matrix exponential function, along with the inhomogeneous term. Partial fraction splitting is used to address the issues regarding stability and computational efficiency. Convergence of the method was proved analytically and demonstrated through numerical experiments. CPU time was recorded in these experiments to show the computational efficiency of the method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the effect of three schemes of ovum pick‐up (OPU) on follicular dynamics, oocytes recovery, oocytes quality, gene expression, nuclear maturation and in‐vitro developmental competence of oocytes in Sahiwal cattle. Considering the follicle population, all the cows were divided equally in a 3 × 3 cross over design, and each cow received one of the three treatments: (a) twice weekly (TW; n = 6), (b) once weekly (OW; n = 6) and (c) bi‐weekly OPU (BW; n = 6) in three periods, with the first OPU conducted on 4, 7 and 14 days after second dominant follicle puncture (DFP) in the TW, OW and BW OPU interval groups, respectively. The collected cumulus oocytes complexes (COCs) were graded into A, B, C and D grades depending on the number of layers of cumulus cells and homogeneous nature of cytoplasm. Nuclear maturation was assessed by staining the oocytes with Hoechst 33342. The growth rate (mm/day) of dominant follicle (DF) (F1) (0.49 ± 0.21 vs. 0.71 ± 0.26 vs. 1.30 ± 0.27) and first subordinate follicle (F2) (0.85 ± 0.27 vs. 0.71 ± 0.25 vs. 1.06 ± 0.29) did not differ (p >.05) among all the three groups. The proportion of animals bearing a corpus luteum (CL) in the BW OPU interval group (53.3%) was significantly higher (p <.05) as compared to TW (13.3%) and OW (18.3%) OPU interval groups. The number of medium‐sized follicles and oocyte with grade A and B were significantly higher (p <.05) in the TW (1.16 ± 0.21 and 33.88 ± 0.03) OPU interval group as compared to the OW (0.88 ± 0.22 and 21.54 ± 0.03) and BW (0.55 ± 0.21 and 21.89 ± 0.02) OPU interval groups. However, the number of degenerated oocytes in BW (0.85 ± 0.16) OPU interval group was significantly higher (p <.05) as compared to the TW (0.16 ± 0.15) and OW (0.44 ± 0.16) OPU interval groups. Expression level of growth differentiation factor 9 in TW OPU interval group was significantly higher (p <.05) as compared to the OW and BW OPU interval groups. Likewise, expression level of bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) in the TW and BW OPU interval groups was significantly higher (p <.05) as compared to the OW OPU interval group. The nuclear maturation rate was significantly higher in the TW (63.64 ± 0.07) and BW (59.26 ± 0.08) OPU groups as compared to OW (51.43 ± 0.06) OPU interval group. However, the cleavage rate (59.30 ± 0.06 vs. 44.29 ± 0.06 vs. 56.67 ± 0.06) did not differ (p >.05) among the three groups. Whereas, the blastocyst rate tended to be higher (p =.06) in the TW (29.07 ± 0.05) and BW (28.33 ± 0.04) OPU interval groups as compared to OW (18.57 ± 0.05) OPU interval group. Taken together, it can be concluded that TW OPU interval scheme enhances the medium‐sized follicles resulting in good quality oocytes, regulates the oocyte‐derived paracrine factors, leading to higher nuclear maturation rates and improved embryonic development in‐vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emulgel is a new innovatory technique for drug development permitting controlled release of active ingredients for topical administration. We report a stable emulgel of 4% Piper nigrum extract (PNE) prepared using 80% ethanol. The PNE-loaded formulation had an antioxidant activity of 84% and tyrosinase inhibition was 82%. Prepared formulation rendered spherical-shaped globules with high zeta potential (−45.5 mV) indicative of a stable system. Total phenolic contents were 58.01 mg GAE/g of dry extract whereas total flavonoid content was 52.63 mg QE/g of dry extract. Sun protection factor for PNE-loaded emulgel was 7.512 and formulation was stable without any evidence of physical and chemical changes following 90 days of storage. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) revealed seventeen bioactive compounds in the PNE including monoterpenoids, triterpenoids, a tertiary alcohol, fatty acid esters, and phytosterols. In silico studies of GC-MS identified compounds show higher binding affinity in comparison to standard kojic acid indicating tyrosinase inhibition. It can be concluded that PNE-loaded emulgel had prominent antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibition and can be utilized as a promising topical system for anti-aging skin formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Poor sleep is known to have adverse impact on a child's attention, memory and learning behaviors. Inappropriate sleep is also linked to affect a child's non-verbal intelligence and communication. Moreover, insufficient sleep is also known to impact social skills among children. Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of melatonin and placebo in improving total duration of night-time sleep in children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Methods: This placebo controlled randomized trial was conducted at the Department of Pediatric Neurology, The Children's Hospital and Institute of Child Health, Multan from January 2021 to June 2021. A total of 160 children (80 in melatonin group and 80 in placebo group) aged 3-12 years with NDDs having sleep problems were enrolled. Oral melatonin was started as 1mg/day while melatonin was advised to be administered 45 minutes prior to child's usual bedtime. Parents were asked to follow up at 4-week interval. Final outcome in shape of total sleep time according to sleep diaries was recorded at 12 week time. Results: Mean night sleep time at the time of enrollment was calculated to be 501+83 minutes. There was a significant improvement in total sleep time with the use of melatonin as total sleep time increased from 494+78 minutes at baseline to 555+94 at 12 weeks (p<0.0001). In comparison to placebo, melatonin also proved to significantly increased the total sleep time duration at night (555+94 vs. 528+81, p=0.0340). No significant difference was noted in terms of adverse events in between study groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: Melatonin was found to improve total sleep time significantly during the course of this study among children with NDDs having sleep problems. No major side effects of melatonin were reported among children with NDDs having sleep problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind power generation has recently emerged in many countries. Therefore, the availability of long‐term historical wind speed data at various potential wind farm sites is limited. In these situations, such forecasting models are needed that comprehensively address the uncertainty of raw data based on small sample size. In this study, a hybrid first‐order accumulated generating operation‐based double exponential smoothing (AGO‐HDES) model is proposed for very short‐term wind speed forecasts. Firstly, the problems of traditional Holt's double exponential smoothing model are highlighted considering the wind speed data of Palmerston North, New Zealand. Next, three improvements are suggested for the traditional model with a rolling window of six data points. A mixed initialization method is introduced to improve the model performance. Finally, the superiority of the novel model is discussed by comparing the accuracy of the AGO‐HDES model with other forecasting models. Results show that the AGO‐HDES model increased the performance of the traditional model by 10%. Also, the modified model performed 7% better than other considered models with three times faster computational time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents the development and implementation of an integrated condition monitoring and fault detection system for AC induction motors using a combination of sensors, GSM communication, and a cloud-based Internet of Things (IoT) platform. The proposed system aims to enhance industrial motors’ operational reliability and efficiency by providing real-time data monitoring and early fault detection. The key components of the system include temperature, vibration, current, voltage, and speed sensors, which are strategically placed to gather critical motor performance data. These sensors feed data to an Arduino-based control unit responsible for sensor data acquisition and processing. To ensure timely response to anomalies, the system is equipped with an alarm system and GSM alerts, which notify designated personnel in case of abnormal motor behavior. Moreover, the paper incorporates remote monitoring capabilities, enabling users to access motor health data and real-time status from a distance. Historical data is also stored for analysis and comparison through the integration of a cloud-based Blynk-IoT platform. Additionally, the system facilitates RPM control and utilizes relay modules for seamless motor control and protection. The proposed system was tested and validated using Proteus for circuit diagram simulation and Arduino for sensor coding. The results demonstrate its effectiveness in detecting abnormal motor behavior and its potential to prevent catastrophic failures by enabling predictive maintenance. The proposed system successfully detects and displays abnormalities in important parameters like vibration, temperature, speed, three-phase currents, and voltages with 99% accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to develop and validate a new, rapid, sensitive, simple, accurate and reproducible HPLC method for simultaneous determination of ketotifen fumarate and salbutamol sulfate. Simultaneous HPLC method was developed using RP-C18 stainless steel analytical column 4.6×150 mm C18.Acetonitrile and phosphate buffer pH 4 (30 : 70) were used as mobile phase and wavelength was adjusted to 276 nm for detection of drugs. Developed method was validated for its specificity, accuracy, precision, linearity and robustness. Method was also applied to quantify drugs in commercial tablets. Chromatogram obtained by newly developed method for simultaneous determination of two anti-asthmatic drugs, having well distinguished peaks for both drugs. Retention time of ketotifen fumarate and salbutamol sulfate were 2.69 minutes and 9.47 minutes respectively. Total run time for both anti-asthmatic drugs was 12 minutes. Limit of quantification for ketotifen fumarate and salbutamol sulfate was 1 ng/ml and 1.50 ng/ml respectively. Limit of detection of ketotifen fumarate and salbutamol sulfate was 3.03 and 4.54 respectively. A simple, easy, precise and new method was developed for simultaneous quantification of frequently used anti-asthmatic drugs. Developed method may prove effective and beneficial in determination of ketotifen fumarate and salbutamol sulfate in bulk and other pharmaceutical dosage forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid technological advancement in solar applications requires accurately determined daily global solar radiation (DGSR). The independent models to predict DGSR are super cited as they do not require any other climatological or geographical parameter. In this study, nine day-of-the-year based (DYB) independent models are developed to estimate daily global solar radiation in Pakistan. The meteorological data from the year 2000–2017 is used while covering thirty locations from five climatic zones of Pakistan. The models’ performance is statistically assessed in terms of normalized mean bias error (nMBE) and normalized root mean square error (nRMSE). The results indicate that the two Gaussian function model estimates DGSR with a satisfactory performance at most stations in different climatic zones. On average, the correlation coefficient and index of agreement between day-of-the-year and DGSR are 0.934 and 0.956, respectively. The two Gaussian function model is then further compared with four existing best claimed models found in literature. Results show that the nMBE and nRMSE ranges from 0.87 to 3.00 and 0.95 to 3.21, respectively. Thus, it shows that the existing models overestimate the DGSR and are not applicable for long-term planning. In comparison, for the present study, nMBE and nRMSE take values between −0.05 to 0.17 and 0.09 to 0.24, respectively. Furthermore, Global Performance Indicator (GPI) is used to rank the models based upon their prediction performance which ranges between −3.5626 and 4.1998. The study revealed that DYB models are best suited for hot climatic regions of Pakistan as compared to cold climatic zones. Also, the locations within the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) highway network have maximum accuracy. This study can help energy system designers to predict DGSR values at any location in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, erbium-substituted Zn nanoferrites were synthesized by a simple coprecipitation method. The effect of pH on various physical parameters of erbium-substituted Zn nanoferrites was studied. The synthesized ferrite nanoparticles were characterized by XRD, FTIR, and SEM techniques and dielectric measurements. The gravimetric analysis showed the annealing temperature of these ferrites up to 700 °C. The result of XRD revealed the crystal structures of zinc nanoferrites. The FTIR spectra showed the weaker absorption peak due to Er–O stretching vibrations in zinc nanoferrites at pH 11. The SEM analysis showed that synthesized erbium-substituted Zn nanoferrites have a spherical shape with a size range from 42 to 46 nm. Dielectric properties exposed the typical semiconductor behavior of the erbium-substituted Zn nanoferrites. The electric constant at low pH was due to Fe+2 dielectric losses that dominated the sum of intrinsic and extrinsic loss. Increased in dielectric loss is associated with random crystallite orientation and impurities. The ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles with a decrease in dielectric loss revealed the crystallite orientation at pH 8 and 11. Tangent loss revealed the conductivity at higher pH 11 with a decrease in tangent loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: incidental prostate cancer findings reflect the great burden of prostatic cancer across the globe. Our 10 year retrospective analysis aimed to identify the incidence and clinic-pathologic features of prostate cancer incidentally detected in patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and to estimate the clinical value of pathologic review of all TURP specimens. Methods: after excluding patients with a known diagnosis of prostate cancer prior to TURP a total of 2,386 men (ages 25-98) were identified by pathology (TURP) specimens. Yearly incidences, Gleason score, grade, pathologic stage were recorded for all incidental prostate cancer patients. Results: a total of 256 (10.7%) patients were found to have prostate cancer. Mean Age was 68.51±9.22 years. T1a and T1b stage prostatic carcinoma was found in 9.9% and 90.1% of these patients respectively. Forty-nine percent (49%) patients had higher Gleason scores (>7). After subtracting average incidences between 5-year intervals, a statistical rise of almost 4% was found. Conclusion: our analysis concludes that a large proportion (10.7%) of patients had incidental prostate cancer and the incidence was increasing in recent years in Pakistan and in comparison, to Asian countries. In Pakistan there is a scarcity of updated national cancer registries. The growing incidence of high Gleason scores requires keen and prompt attention. The diverse ethnic and socioeconomic background of patients propels their propensity towards loss of follow up with already limited tertiary healthcare institutes in Pakistan. This pathologic review of TURP specimens is valuable for Asiatic and non-Asiatic populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, stabilizer caged fluorescent rhodamine B mesoporous silica particles with special shapes were prepared. The prepared particles have a pore volume of 1.92 cm3/g and a pore diameter of 12 nm. The abundant hydroxyl functional groups of mesoporous silica are responsible for the superior loading capacity of target molecular specie. The appearance of bands due to –COOH, –CH3, –CH2, –NH etc. indicated that the fluorescent rhodamine B could be encaged with the stabilizer inside the mesoporous channels. The performance of mesostructured origami silica matrix was evaluated by in vitro release experiments. From the in vitro release results, this material is suggested to have appropriate features for almost no release at pH = 1.2 and very slow release at neutral pH value. The same material could be best employed at pH 4.5 and at high pH values. It is concluded that mesostructured origami silica matrix is a smart nano-platform and can be utilized for high retention of cargo molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study was aimed to find out the frequency of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) among children with febrile seizures (FS). Study Design: Descriptive, Cross- Sectional study. Setting: Department of Pediatric Medicine, The Children's Hospital and The Institute of Child Health Multan. Period: from 31st July to 31st December 2017. Material & Methods: A total of 57children, age 6 months to 6 years of either gender presenting with FS were enrolled in the study. Demographic data included age, gender, residential area, maternal literacy and socio-economic status. Work-up for iron deficiency anemia included hemoglobin (Hb) level with serum ferritin levels. Mean and standard deviation were reported for age, disease duration, Hband ferritin levels whereas frequency and percentages are reported for categorical data. Results: A total of 57 children that included 66.7% females (n=38) were enrolled. Mean Hb (g/dl) and ferritin (µg/L) level was 8.87±6.01 and 9.12±7.36 respectively. IDA was observed in 28.1% (n=16) of the patients. IDA was significantly higher in children 6 months to 3 years age (p-value 0.038), from rural origin (p-vale 0.005), with low income status (p-value 0.025) and children of illiterate mothers (p-value 0.004). Conclusion: IDA is not uncommon in children with FS. Children younger than 3 years, from rural origin, with low income status, and having illiterate mothers were more prone to IDA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuropathic pain is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) and current treatment options are ineffective. In this study, we investigated whether endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) contributes to pain hypersensitivity in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model of MS. Inflammatory cells and increased levels of ER stress markers are evident in post-mortem DRGs from MS patients. Similarly, we observed ER stress in the DRG of mice with EAE and relieving ER stress with a chemical chaperone, 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA), reduced pain hypersensitivity. In vitro, 4-PBA and the selective PERK inhibitor, AMG44, normalize cytosolic Ca2+ transients in putative DRG nociceptors. We went on to assess disease-mediated changes in the functional properties of Ca2+-sensitive BK-type K+ channels in DRG neurons. We found that the conductance-voltage (GV) relationship of BK channels was shifted to a more positive voltage, together with a more depolarized resting membrane potential in EAE cells. Our results suggest that ER stress in sensory neurons of MS patients and mice with EAE is a source of pain and that ER stress modulators can effectively counteract this phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects roughly a third to a half of the world's population. Despite its substantial effect on society, treatment for chronic pain is modest, at best, notwithstanding its side effects. Hence, novel therapeutics are direly needed. Emerging evidence suggests that calcium plays an integral role in mediating neuronal plasticity that underlies sensitization observed in chronic pain states. The endoplasmic reticulum and the mitochondria are the largest calcium repositories in a cell. Here, we review how stressors, like accumulation of misfolded proteins and oxidative stress, influence endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria function and contribute to chronic pain. We further examine the shuttling of calcium across the mitochondrial-associated membrane as a mechanism of cross-talk between the endoplasmic reticulum and the mitochondria. In addition, we discuss how endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial impairment, and calcium dyshomeostasis are implicated in various models of neuropathic pain. We propose a novel framework of endoplasmic reticulum–mitochondria signaling in mediating pain hypersensitivity. These observations require further investigation in order to develop novel therapies for chronic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Masseter muscle spasm and displacement of temporomandibular joint under anaesthesia could be life threatening if an anaesthesiologist is not prepared. We present a case of 23 years old young lady, who otherwise healthy, having symptoms of abdominal pain and vomiting. Initial baseline workup showed a solitary gallstone and was then planned for urgent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The challenges faced in the perioperative period were the management of unanticipated masseter muscle spasm and difficult endotracheal intubation after administration of cisatracurium, and temporomandibular joint displacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research paper, we have reported the thermal, structural, magnetic and optical properties of unsubstituted and aluminum substituted zinc ferrite nanoparticles. These substituted and unsubstituted ferrite nanoparticles were prepared by cost effective co-precipitation method. The co-precipitated unannealed nanoparticles of the typical sample were subjected to thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to probe the annealing temperature. The X-rays diffraction (XRD) technique was used for the determination of structural parameters. XRD patterns of all compositions of Al x ZnFe 2-x O 4 nanoparticles confirmed the FCC structure of these spinel ferrite nanoparticles. Besides the main crystal structure determination, many other lattice parameters and their variations with respect to increased Al3+ contents in ZnFe 2 O 4 were also calculated from XRD data and have been discussed in detail in this article. The morphology of the synthesized materials has been studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and average particles size found < 100 nm. The variation in electrical and magnetic parameters with increased Al3+ contents was studied in detail. The analysis of magnetic properties concluded that the prepared nanoparticles have good magnetic properties. At the end the optical studies of the nanoparticles proved that these spinel ferrites also have photocatalytic applications. The photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue in the presence of these samples has been studied and discussed. The ferrites particles could be separated from contaminated water simply by magnetic bars. Therefore these particles can be used and recycled easily for photocatalytic applications. The aim of work was to study the structural, electrical, magnetic and catalytic behavior of the material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the multicenter variations in perfusion practices, which persist nationally and to highlight the non-evidence based practice variations. Study Design: Multicenter National cross sectional web-based study. Place and Duration of Study: Multicenter national adult cardiac surgical units, from Jul 2018 to Jan 2019. Methodology: The web-based questionnaire of the study was sent to 24 adult cardiac anaesthesiologists working in different cardiac centers nationally. Partial or unresponded study were excluded. A convenient sampling technique was done. Results: The response rate was 15 (62.5%). Sixty percent of the respondents were practicing in heart centers. The study demonstrated that 10 (66.7%) respondents used goal directed perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), with more than 80% used aseptic measures during handling cardiopulmonary bypass machine, consulted with the cardiac anesthesiologist in critical decision making and treatment of complications, and used protocol for trouble shooting during cardiopulmonary bypass. Nine (60%) perfusionists did not monitor continuous arterial blood gases and acid base balance. Thirteen (86.6%) respondents transfused packed red blood cells (PRBC) if hemoglobin ≤7g/dl. Only 5 (33%) centers used the scavenging system to avoid pollution by using volatile agents. Conventional polyvinylchloride (PVC) circuits were used by 13 (86.6%) participants while heparin coated silicon circuits were used by only 2 (13%). Conclusion: The study revealed that most of the perfusion practices reflect updated guidelines and they try to maintain standards in their institution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study and analysis of real-world social, communication, information and citation networks for understanding their structure and identifying interesting patterns have cultivated the need for designing generative models for such networks. A generative model generates an artificial but a realistic-looking network with the same characteristics as that of a real network under study. In this paper, we propose a new generative model for generating realistic networks. Our proposed model is a blend of three key ideas namely preferential attachment, associativity of social links and randomness in real networks. We present a framework that first tests these ideas separately and then blends them into a mixed model based on the idea that a real-world graph could be formed by a mixture of these concepts. Our model can be used for generating static as well as time evolving graphs and this feature distinguishes it from previous approaches. We compare our model with previous methods for generating graphs and show that it outperforms in several aspects. We compare our graphs with real-world graphs across many metrics such as degree, clustering coefficient and path length distributions, assortativity, eigenvector centrality and modularity. In addition, we give both qualitative and quantitative results for clarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is commonly believed that real networks are scale-free and the fraction of nodes P(k) with degree k satisfies the power-law P(k) / k-γ for k > kmin > 0. Preferential attachment is the mechanism that has been considered responsible for such organization of these networks. In many real networks, degree distribution before the kmin varies very slowly to the extent of being uniform as compared to the degree distribution for k > kmin. In this paper, we propose a model that describes this particular degree distribution for the whole range of k > 0. We adopt a two step approach. In the first step, at every time stamp we add a new node to the network and attach it to an existing node using preferential attachment method. In the second step, we add edges between existing pairs of nodes with the node selection based on the uniform probability distribution. Our approach generates weakly scale-free networks that closely follow the degree distribution of real-world networks. We perform a comprehensive mathematical analysis of the model in the discrete domain and compare the degree distribution generated by this model with that of real-world networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, optimized micro-emulsion route was utilised to synthesize the Cr-substituted MnFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles. Transition metal Cr3+ cations were used to replace the Fe3+ ions because the Cr3+ ions have compatible ionic radii and are non-magnetic in nature. Further, they have the same electronic configuration, which is the primary requirement for the substitution philosophy. Cr3+ (x) contents were in the range 0 ≤ x ≥ 0.16. All derivative of manganese ferrite nanoparticles were annealed at 400 °C. The annealing at the required temperature was carried out for 4 hours under vacuum. Structural information was collected via X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy. Both XRD and FTIR confirmed FCC structure of all compositions of Cr x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles. Various other physical parameters like lattice constant, cell volume, X-ray density, crystallite size were determined from obtained XRD data. Quantitative measurement of both divalent (Mn2+) and trivalent (Fe3+ and Cr3+) transition metal cations was calculated. FTIR spectral investigation was done to confirm the two typical bands corresponding to metal-oxygen vibrations present at A-sites and B-sites. After structural and spectral investigations, the electrical and dielectric properties were studied in detail for utilization of these ferrites for practical applications. Both electrical and dielectric properties were found in agreement with each other. The dielectric properties were carried out in frequency range 1 × 106 Hz to 3 × 109 Hz. In general, the both electrical and dielectric parameters were largely affected by Cr-substitution in MnFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we substituted the magnetic Fe3+ ions with highly paramagnetic rare earth Dy3+ cations in MnFe 2 O 4 spinel ferrite nanoparticles to investigate the physical, structural, spectral and electrical properties in detail. Dysprosium substituted inverse spinel ferrite nanoparticles (Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4) (0 ≤ x ≥ 0.16) were prepared via facile optimized wet chemical approach i.e. micro-emulsion route. Substituted and unsubstituted manganese ferrite nanoparticles were annealed at 400 °C for 4 h under vacuum. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis proved the spinel structure of all compositions of Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles. Various physical parameters were calculated from XRD data. Quantitative measurements of cations distribution were carried out to estimate the distribution of divalent metal cations (Mn2+) and trivalent metal cations (Fe3+ and Dy3+) between A-sites (tetrahedral) and B-sites (octahedral). Oxygen parameter ' u ' was calculated to study the displacement of oxygen ions in tetrahedral sites along (111) direction. Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) were recorded to study the two significant absorption bands corresponding to A-site and B-site. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis was carried out to study the morphology of Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles. After structural and morphological investigations, all compositions of Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles were subjected to dielectric parameters measurements. The dielectric parameters like dielectric constant (real and imaginary part) and tangent loss were investigated as a function of frequency from 1 MHz to 3 GHz at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facile and low cost micro-emulsion method for the synthesis of single phase manganese ferrite (MnFe 2 O 4) nanoparticles was explored. In an attempt to synthesize monodisperse and single phase manganese ferrite (MnFe 2 O 4) nanoparticles, micro-emulsion method using different oil phases such as dodecanol, toluene and low cost paraffin was adapted. Simple co-precipitation method was also followed for comparison purpose. In this facile approach, the strategy to control the particle size at nano-level has been explained in detail. Formation mechanism of single phase manganese ferrite and appearance of different phases (such as goethite, manganite, hematite, hausmanite, maghemite, magnetite, etc) by these synthesis methods have been investigated and discussed. The samples were annealed at various temperatures to probe the thermal stability. Effect of annealing under air and under vacuum was studied. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to study the phase transitions along with the investigation of appropriate annealing temperature for spinel ferrite formation. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis was used to study the crystal structure and phase identification. Microstructural properties were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to study the bond stretching (Metal-Oxygen) and cubic spinel structure of MnFe 2 O 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mutual prodrug (1) of ibuprofen and sulphanilamide has been synthesized with dual activity and improved toxicity profile. The synthesized compound has been characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR and ESI-MS. The molecular geometry of the compound (1) was optimized using density functional theory (DFT/B3LYP) method with the 6-311G(d,p) basis sets in ground state. Geometric parameters (bond lengths, bond angles, torsion angles), vibrational assignments, chemical shifts and thermodynamics of the compound (1) has been calculated theoretically and compared with the experimental data. Comparative AutoDock study of compound (1) with cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) were performed involving docking for possible selectivity of our prodrug within the two Cox enzymes. The highest binding affinities of −8.7 Kcal/mol and −8.1 Kcal/mol has been obtained for COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes respectively. Compound (1) exhibited enhanced anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer and free radical scavenging activities as compared with the parent drugs. Based on various in vitro and in vivo tests it is suggested that the Compound (1) is more active than the parent drugs. Moreover, LD 50 of compound (1) is higher than parent drug i.e. ibuprofen and sulphanilamide suggesting that the synthesized compound is much safer than its parent analogous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract New yttrium substituted manganese ferrite (MnY x Fe 2- x O 4) nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by low cost reverse micelle micro-emulsion method by utilizing cheap raw materials like Paraffin, Triton X-100, and 1-butanol and corresponding metal salts. The Y3+content (x) range was kept 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.16. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of un-annealed precipitates was carried out to probe the phase formation temperature. The annealing of precipitates of all compositions of MnY x Fe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles was carried at 400 °C for 4 h (h). The annealing was carried out under vacuum to control the oxidation of manganese. The effect of Y3+ cations on structural, spectral and dielectric properties was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy and impedance analyzer measurements at room temperature. XRD patterns confirmed the formation of MnFe 2 O 4 and its derivatives with yttrium. Site radii and bond lengths were calculated from XRD data. FTIR spectra confirmed the tetrahedral (A) and octahedral (B) sites in all compositions of MnY x Fe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles, which is characteristic of spinel ferrites having FCC (face centered cubic) structure. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis confirmed the spherical morphology of ferrite particles. Dielectric parameters analysis in the frequency range from 1 × 106 Hz to 3 × 109 Hz suggested that these ferrite particles may find their potential applications in high frequency devices fabrication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to address melatonin receptor expression, mRNA level of hypothalamus and hypophysis hormone receptors (GnRHR, FSHR, and LHR), steroidogenesis, cell cycle, apoptosis, and their regulatory factors after addition of melatonin for 24 hr in cultured buffalo granulosa cells (GCs). The results revealed that direct addition of different concentrations of melatonin (100 pM, 1 nM, and 100 nM) resulted in significant upregulation (p < 0.05) of mRNA level of melatonin receptor 1a (MT1) without affecting melatonin receptor 1b (MT2). Melatonin treatment significantly downregulated (p < 0.05) mRNA level of FSH and GnRH receptors, whereas 100 nM dose of melatonin significantly increased mRNA level of LH receptor. Treatment with 100 nM of melatonin significantly decreased the basal progesterone production with significant decrease (p < 0.05) in mRNA levels of StAR and p450ssc, and lower mRNA level of genes (Insig1, Lipe, and Scrab1) that affect cholesterol availability. Melatonin supplementation suppressed apoptosis (100 nM, p < 0.05) and enhanced G2/M phase (1 nM, 100 nM, p < 0.05) of cell cycle progression which was further corroborated by decrease in protein expression of caspase‐3, p21, and p27 and increase in bcl2. Our results demonstrate that melatonin regulates gonadotrophin receptors and ovarian steroidogenesis through MT1. Furthermore, the notion of its incorporation in apoptosis and proliferation of buffalo GCs extends its role in buffalo ovaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this work erbium (Er3+) substituted cobalt zinc ferrite having general formula Co 0.70 Zn 0.30 Er x Fe 2-x O 4 (x = 0, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05) were fabricated using micro-emulsion technique. The substitution of Er was done for the purpose of tuning the optical band gap. Er+3 substituted nanoparticles were annealed at 700 °C for 7 h. A typical composition of Co 0.70 Zn 0.30 Er x Fe 2-x O 4 was utilized to make the nanocomposites material with reduced graphene oxide (rGO), that was prepared by facile chemical route. The main purpose of graphene was to enhance the conductivity of ferrite particles. All these ferrite particles and a composite were characterized by X-rays diffraction (XRD), UV–Visible spectroscopy and SEM for structural elucidation and morphology studies. Single phase spinel structure was confirmed by XRD analysis and crystallized size calculated by Scherer formula was found in the range 35–60 nm. SEM confirmed the well dispersed ferrite particles among graphene sheets. All the Er-substituted ferrite particles were subjected to dielectric parameters study. One typical composition of Co 0.70 Zn 0.30 Er x Fe 2-x O 4 particles and its composites with rGO were utilized for photocatalysis study using methylene blue as model organic compound in the presence of visible light. Current-voltage (I-V) measurements of ferrites nanoparticles and their composites with graphene were also studied. The results of all these techniques were agreed with each other and suggested the various potential applications of these nanoparticles. Highlights • Rare earth Er3+-substituted Cobalt-Zinc Nano-ferrites were prepared. • XRD confirmed the FCC structure of all compositions. • Graphene@ ferrite composites exhibited better photocatalytic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We introduce and analyze a strongly stable numerical method designed to yield good performance under challenging conditions of irregular or mismatched initial data for solving systems of coupled partial integral differential equations (PIDEs). Spatial derivatives are approximated using second order central difference approximations by treating the mixed derivative terms in a special way. The integral operators are approximated using one and two–dimensional trapezoidal rule on an equidistant grid. Computational complexity of the method for solving large systems of PIDEs is discussed. A detailed treatment for the consistency, stability, and convergence of the proposed method is provided. Two asset American option under regime–switching with jump–diffusion model when solved using a penalty term, leads to a system of two dimensional PIDEs with mixed derivatives. This model involves double probability density function which brings more challenges to the numerical solution in already a complicated partial integral differential equation. The complexity of the dense jump probability generator, the nonlinear penalty term and the regime–switching terms are treated efficiently, while maintaining the stability and convergence of the method. The impact of the jump intensity and other parameters is shown in the graphs. Numerical experiments are performed to demonstrated efficiency, accuracy, and reliability of the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Content-based image retrieval (CBIR) is a mechanism that is used to retrieve similar images from an image collection. In this paper, an effective novel technique is introduced to improve the performance of CBIR on the basis of visual words fusion of scale-invariant feature transform (SIFT) and local intensity order pattern (LIOP) descriptors. SIFT performs better on scale changes and on invariant rotations. However, SIFT does not perform better in the case of low contrast and illumination changes within an image, while LIOP performs better in such circumstances. SIFT performs better even at large rotation and scale changes, while LIOP does not perform well in such circumstances. Moreover, SIFT features are invariant to slight distortion as compared to LIOP. The proposed technique is based on the visual words fusion of SIFT and LIOP descriptors which overcomes the aforementioned issues and significantly improves the performance of CBIR. The experimental results of the proposed technique are compared with another proposed novel features fusion technique based on SIFT-LIOP descriptors as well as with the state-of-the-art CBIR techniques. The qualitative and quantitative analysis carried out on three image collections, namely, Corel-A, Corel-B, and Caltech-256, demonstrate the robustness of the proposed technique based on visual words fusion as compared to features fusion and the state-of-the-art CBIR techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Real world graphs are massive in size and often prohibitively expensive to analyze. Of the possible solutions, sampling is extracting a representative subgraph from a large graph that faithfully represents the actual graph. The prior research has developed several sampling methods but the samples produced by these methods fail to match important properties of the original graph and work poorly in maintaining its topology. We observed that the existing methods do not explore the neighborhood of sampled nodes fairly and hence yield suboptimal samples. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach in which we keep a list of candidate nodes that is populated with all the neighbors of nodes that have been sampled so far. With this approach, we can balance the depth and breadth of graph exploration to produce better samples. We evaluate the effectiveness of our approach using several real world datasets and show that it surpasses the existing state-of-the-art approaches in maintaining the properties of the original graph and retaining its structure. We also calculate Kolmogorov-Smirnov Distance and Jensen-Shannon Distance for quantitative evaluation of our approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) often complain of neuropathic pain. According to the Gate Control Theory of Pain, spinal networks of GABAergic inhibitory interneurons are important in modulating nociceptive inputs from the periphery. Na+–K+–2Cl− co-transporter 1 (NKCC1) and K+–Cl− co-transporter 2 (KCC2) generally dictate the tone of GABA/glycine inhibition by regulating intracellular chloride concentrations. In this study, we investigated the role of NKCC1 and KCC2 in neuropathic pain observed in the animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a commonly used model to study the pathophysiology of MS. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed no change in NKCC1 mRNA transcripts in dorsal root ganglia throughout EAE disease course. However, NKCC1 and KCC2 mRNA levels in the dorsal spinal cord were significantly reduced at disease onset and peak only to recover by the chronic time point. Similarly, Western blot data revealed a significant downregulation of NKCC1 and KCC2 in the dorsal spinal cord at disease onset but an upregulation of NKCC1 protein in the dorsal root ganglia at this time point. Treatment with bumetanide, an NKCC inhibitor, had no effect on mechanical hypersensitivity seen in mice with EAE even though it reversed the changes in the levels of NKCC1 and KCC2. We noted that bumetanide treatment, while effective at reversing the changes in monomeric KCC2 levels was ineffective at reversing the changes in oligomeric KCC2 which remained repressed. These results indicate that mechanical hypersensitivity in EAE is not mediated by altered levels of NKCC1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The overarching objective of this study was to develop an alternative strategy for first and greater services that will improve fertility in lactating dairy cows for dairy operations limited by labor or other logistical constraints that make it difficult to use Presynch-11, G6G, or Double-Ovsynch. Our overall hypothesis was that simplification of a Presynch program through the combination of PGF 2α and GnRH on the same day (PG + G), 7 days before the first GnRH of Ovsynch, would allow for similar ovulation and luteolysis rate and pregnancies per AI (P/AI) compared with G6G. Lactating dairy cows 58 to 64 days in milk (first service; n = 114), and cows diagnosed not pregnant 39 days after previous AI (second + service; n = 122) were blocked by parity and service and randomly assigned to control or PG + G. Control cows received G6G (n = 116) that consisted of PGF 2α , 2-day GnRH, 6-day GnRH, 7-day PGF 2α , 56-hour GnRH, and 16-hour AI. Treated cows (PG + G; n = 121) received PGF 2α and GnRH, 7-day GnRH, 7-day PGF 2α , 56-hour GnRH, and 16-hour AI. All cows received a second PGF 2α 24 hours after the PGF 2α of Ovsynch. First service cows received AI between 76 and 82 days in milk and second + service received AI 57 days after previous AI. Pregnancies/AI (n = 230) were similar in controls compared with treated cows on Day 35 (57 vs. 50%; P = 0.27) and Day 49 (54 vs. 47%; P = 0.33), respectively. Percent of cows ovulating after GnRH of the presynchronization was greater (P = 0.002) for controls vs. treated (80 vs. 58%); however, ovulation after first GnRH of Ovsynch was similar (67 vs. 68%; P = 0.86). Serum concentrations of progesterone were similar (P = 0.78) at the time of first GnRH of Ovsynch for control and treated cows (2.22 vs. 2.14 ng/mL). However, serum progesterone at the time of PGF 2α of Ovsynch was greater (P = 0.002) for control cows compared with treated cows (5.75 vs. 4.64 ng/mL). In summary, administering both PGF 2α and GnRH on the same day, 7 days before the start of Ovsynch, appears to be a simple alternative that results in acceptable P/AI but potentially less progesterone during the growth of the ovulatory follicle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perioperative shivering is a common problem during spinal anaesthesia. It causes tremendous deleterious effects on metabolism of body. Despite of re-warming and raising the ambient temperature, several drugs are under research to evaluate their preventive role in shivering during anaesthesia like tramadol, butorphanol, midazolam, ketamine and ondansetron. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of prophylactic low dose ketamine and ondansetron for prevention of shivering during spinal anaesthesia. Objective: To compare prophylactic low dose ketamine with ondansetron for prevention of shivering during spinal anaesthesia in patients undergoing lower abdominal surgeries. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: Department of Anaesthesia, Nishtar Hospital Multan. Period: November 2012 to May 2013. Material and methods: A total of 256 patients were included in the study divided into two equal groups. Results: In this study basic demographics like age, gender, mean weight and height and type of surgery patients underwent were similar, having no significant difference in both groups, while on comparison in both groups, the frequency of shivering revealed 4.69%(n=6) in K Group and 11.72%(n=15) in O Group while remaining 95.31%(n=122) in K and 88.28%(n=113) in O Group had no findings of the morbidity, p value was calculated as 0.03, which showed significant difference. Conclusion: The result of the study concluded that prophylactic intravenous administration of low dose ketamine (0.25mg/kg) is significantly more effective than ondansteron (4 mg) for prevention of shivering during spinal anesthesia in patients undergoing lower abdominal surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrene-based turn-on ratiometric fluorescent probe 1 demonstrates high sensitivity and exceptional selectivity toward Cr3+ in the presence of other metals, including Fe3+ in aqueous media. Interaction of Cr3+ with probe 1 brings pyrene moieties close enough to have better aligned π-π stacking, thus enhancing the excimer peak many fold. On the other hand, the interaction of Fe3+ with probe 1 brings forth a negligible difference in stacking, resulting in an insignificant change in fluorescence intensity. Exceptional selectivity of probe 1 with Cr3+ over Fe3+ and other metals has been confirmed by theoretical studies in addition to experimental results. Imaging of HeLa cells observed by confocal fluorescence microscopy reveals that probe 1 can be used to monitor Cr3+ in live cells to map its subcellular distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to examine if administration of oestradiol benzoate (OEB) after removal of control internal drug releasing device (CIDR) could enhance oestrous intensity and pregnancy rate in anovular nulliparous and multiparous Nili-Ravi buffalo. For this, a total of 298 nulliparous ( n = 91) and multiparous ( n = 207) buffaloes received a CIDR on Day 0, and were administered PGF 2α on Day 6 followed by removal of CIDR on Day 7. At Day 8, OEB was administered in approximately half of nulliparous ( n = 45/91) and multiparous ( n = 100/207) buffalo. All animals were fixed time inseminated 48 and 60 h after CIDR removal, respectively. The results showed that administration of OEB but not the parity, improved oestrous intensity (3.15 ± 0.05 vs 2.99 ± 0.05; P = 0.0026) compared to those not received OEB, respectively. However, OEB did not affect (46.2 vs 44.1; P = 0.8) pregnancy per AI (P/AI). In addition, P/AI was greater (50.7 vs 39.6; P = 0.036) in multiparous compared to nulliparous buffalo, respectively. The oestrous intensity ( P = 0.025) and response to OEB ( P = 0.0002) was greater in buffalo having a greater body condition (>3.0). Though, non significant, timing of ovulation was more synchronous (62.9 ± 1.8 vs 72.4 ± 3.6 h; P > 0.05) and ovulation rate was greater (91% vs 64%; P > 0.05) in buffalo after OEB administration. It is concluded that administration of OEB in conjunction with the CIDR improves oestrous intensity without affecting P/AI in nulliparous and multiparous anovular buffalo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Prediction problems of statistical wind speed forecasting models are highlighted. • Improved models are considered while addressing the shortcomings of conventional methods. • Global Performance Indicator (GPI) is used to rank sixteen investigated wind speed forecasting models for three rolling windows and four case studies. • Improved models show between 4% and 28% higher accuracy than their counter traditional models. Wind speed forecasting models have seen significant development and growth in recent years. In particular, hybrid models have been emerging since the last decade. Hybrid models combine two or more techniques from several categories, with each model utilizing its distinct strengths. Mainly, data-driven models that include statistical and machine learning models are deployed in hybrid models for shorter forecasting time horizons (<6hrs). Literature studies show that machine learning models have gained enormous potential owing to their accuracy and robustness. On the other hand, only a handful of studies are available on the performance enhancement of statistical models, even though hybrid models are incomplete without statistical models. To address the knowledge gap, this paper addressed the problems of traditional statistical models while enhancing prediction accuracy. Initially, the multi-step ahead wind speed forecasting performance of eight commonly used statistical approaches is evaluated using four different case studies and three rolling windows. The reasons for erroneous wind speed forecasts are discussed in detail. Next, four enhanced models were considered while addressing the shortcomings of conventional methods. In addition, four machine learning models are also analyzed for comparison. Moreover, the outcomes of the comparisons are discussed, explaining the higher prediction accuracy of improved models. A Global Performance Indicator (GPI) is used to rank the investigated wind speed forecasting models. Results showed that exponential smoothing models have a greater GPI in most cases, whereas Markov Chain models are among the poorest. The grey models are more suitable for smaller samples of data. In machine learning models, Support Vector Machine (SVM) has proven to be the best choice. Overall, the improved models show between 4% and 28% higher accuracy than their counter traditional models. Lastly, the future directions are highlighted that need subsequent research to further improve forecasting performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cationic cyclophaneswith bridging and spacer groups possess well-organizedsemirigid cavities and are able to encapsulate and stabilize anionicspecies through diverse molecular interactions. We highlight the precisetuning of functionalized cyclophanes toward selective recognitionof AMP, GTP, and pyrophosphate (PPi) using fluorescence, NMR spectroscopy,and density functional theory (DFT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of polypharmacy (PP) and the associated factors in medical outpatients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, observational, descriptive study was carried out in adult medical outpatients attending internal medicine clinics at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 1 March 2009 to 31 December 2009. PP was defined as the concomitant use of ≥5 medications daily. The number of medications being currently taken by patient was recorded. Effect of patients' age, gender, educational level, number of prescribers, disease load and disease type on PP was assessed by multivariate analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Incorporated (SPSS Inc) Version 18. Results: Out of 766 patients included in the study, 683 (89%) had PP. The mean number of prescribed medications, oral pills and doses was 8.8, 9.6 and 12.1, respectively. Factors significantly associated with PP included age (≥61 years), disease load and the number of prescribers. Gender had no impact on PP while education beyond primary education significantly decreased PP. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia alone and as a cluster increased PP. Conclusion: We found an extremely high level of PP in medical outpatients at our tertiary care center. The impact of PP on medication compliance and control of underlying diseases in Saudi Arabia is unknown and needs to be studied at different levels of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on nuclear protein importer that modulates gene expression to control the persistence of neuropathic pain. Topics include examines that therapeutics have limited efficacy, and the underlying mechanisms governing the persistence of this disorder are mysterious; and reports that it plays a crucial role in maintaining neuropathic pain months after a peripheral nerve injury in mice.

Aims: Parkinson's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by bradykinesia, rigidity, and resting tremor. Dementia, among its non-motor symptoms, is a debilitating complication affecting intellectual functioning. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of dementia in Parkinson's disease and its relation to age, gender and stage of the disease. Methods: A retrospective chart analysis was performed on Parkinson's disease patients seen in a community-based Parkinson's disease and movement disorder clinic between 2005 and 2010. Results: A total of 310 patients were included in this survey, among whom 61 patients (19.7%) with Parkinson's disease met the criteria for dementia. Age was found to be a significant factor in developing dementia, with 90% of patients with dementia aged ≥70. Gender, however, was not correlated with dementia in Parkinson's disease. On analysis of stage at which dementia developed, progression of the disease was positively correlated with prevalence of dementia. Conclusions: As age increases, the chances of developing dementia increase. Dementia, contrarily, is not selective between genders. The likelihood of developing dementia increases as the stage of disease advances. Further research is required in order to understand underlying mechanisms of dementia in Parkinson's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evluate the Erythocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) at the time of diagnosis in culture positive cases of different types of active tuberculosis (TB). Methodology: In this retrospective descriptive study conducted at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, ESR was done by a modified Westergren method using a rapid test. Cases of active TB (defined as a case of TB up to two weeks from the start of anti-tuberculous treatment), were evaluated for ESR at the time of diagnosis. Results: Of 246 cases of culture positive TB, ESR results during active phase were available in 195 (79.3%) patients. Number (%) of patients with pulmonary, extra-pulmonary and disseminated TB were 69 (35%), 78 (40%) and 49 (25%) respectively. Two (1%) of these patients were HIV positive. ESR was elevated in 169 (87%) and was normal in 26 (13%) patients. Mean ESR in all patients was 67.6 mm/hr with no statistical difference between patients with different TB types. ESR between 1-30, 31-60, 61-90, 91-120 and 121-150 mm/hr represented 19%, 23%, 23%, 19% and 6% of the cases respectively, whereas 44 (22.6%) of the patients had ESR more than 100 mm/hr. Conclusion: In HIV negative patients with suggestive features of TB but without any other underlying disease affecting the ESR, the baseline ESR may be a valuable diagnostic test to suspect TB in resource poor countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We look at the problem of real-time tumor tracking and motion compensation in radiotherapy techniques from a pure feedback-control point of view and try to understand it using simple mechanical models of the treatment couch and breathing patterns. Since we want to control a robotic couch based on the data collected in real-time, we propose the use of an acceleration sensor to develop a feedback control system to correct for the random movements of the tumor. An acceleration sensor offers a much richer set of data and in situations of rapid change in the breathing pattern, an acceleration sensor can provide a quick measurement and prediction of the trend. Our simplified models and the prototype show stable response under normal conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycrystalline Er x Ni 0.8 Zn 0·2 Fe 2-x O 4 nanoparticles were synthesized using wet chemical route. Powder x-ray diffraction (XRD) data was utilized to observe the structural parameters. The cubic crystalline structure with the second phase was obtained from XRD patterns. Two significant absorption bands (between 700 and 400 cm−1) at the tetrahedral and octahedral sites were studied from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) that further confirmed the spinel structure of prepared ferrites. These are the main bands of spinel ferrites. After the structural explanation, the dielectric, electrical and magnetic parameters were studied in detail at room temperature. All of these parameters were affected by Er3+ substitution. The obtained results suggested the possible utilization of these soft ferrites in advanced technological applications such as the devices working at high frequencies, magnetic data recording, switching applications, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tumors originating from the meninges, also known as meningiomas, have rarely been known to cause parkinsonian symptoms and other movement disorders. Although some cases of AV malformations causing movement disorders have been described in the literature, not much has been reported about meningiomas in this regard. The aim of this case report is to further highlight the importance of brain imaging in patients with movement disorders for even a benign tumor; and also emphasize the need for a careful movement disorder examination because more than one phenomenology of movement disorders may result from the mechanical pressure caused by a tumor. We present a case report of a patient with a heavily calcified right frontal lobe meningioma. Our patient had irregular, involuntary, brief, fleeting and unpredictable movements of her left upper and lower extremities, consistent with chorea. The patient also had abnormal dystonic posturing of her left arm while walking. This case report highlights the importance of brain imaging as well as careful neurological examinations of patients with benign meningiomas. Moreover, it illustrates the remarkable specificity yet clinical diversity of meningiomas in presentation through movement disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ethyl 2-[2-(2-nitrobenzylidene)hydrazinyl]thiazole-4-carboxylate (1), a thiazole ester, was synthesized by refluxing 1-(2-nitrobenzylidene)thiosemicarbazide and ethyl bromopyruvate. The compound is characterized by spectrometric, spectroscopic and single crystal (SC-XRD) techniques. Non-covalent interactions that are responsible for crystal packing are explored by Hirshfeld surface analysis. All theoretical calculations were performed by DFT quantum chemical methods using 6-311G(d,p) and cc-pVTZ basis sets and compared. Theoretical harmonic frequencies of ethyl 2-[2-(2-nitrobenzylidene)hydrazinyl]thiazole-4-carboxylate (1) were optimized. Confirmation of hydrogen bonding sites was analyzed by molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) and Mulliken population analysis. The vibrational frequencies of characteristic functional groups and chemical shifts were found in good agreement with experimental assignments. Frontier molecular orbital (FMO) revealed relatively small HOMO–LUMO (highest occupied molecular orbital-lowest unoccupied molecular orbital) gape, which speaks off the nearly planar geometry and extended conjugation, as compared to the substituents with no conjugation possible. It has also been observed that –NO2 substituent plays a vital role for this relatively small HOMO–LUMO gape and overall electronic properties when compared with similar thiazole carboxylates (2–6, Table 6). Ethyl 2-[2-(2-nitrobenzylidene)hydrazinyl]thiazole-4-carboxylate (1) was also evaluated for its anti-oxidant and anti-microbial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]