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Bacillus thuringiensis (B. thuringiensis) is considered one of the most important entomopathogenic microorganisms. It produces potent toxins against insects. Therefore, the present study investigates the bioacaricidal properties of B. thuringiensis on the Hyalomma tick species. Firstly, we identify Hyalomma ticks based on morphological screening and molecular characterization. The cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COX1) gene was selected for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis, which resulted in the amplification of 656 bp. The amplified products were sequenced, and the isolated (COX1) gene of ticks was submitted to the gene bank of NCBI (Accession No. OR077934.1). The nucleotide sequences were retrieved from the NCBI data bank by BLASTn analysis, which confirmed that all obtained sequences belong to genus Hyalomma, and multiple alignments confirmed that the sequence of Hyalomma anatolicum Tandojam‐isolate (HA‐TJ) 100% aligned with Hyalomma analoticum KP792577.1, Hyalomma detritum KP792595.1, Hyalomma excavatum KX911989.1, and H. excavatum OQ449693.1. The generated phylogenetic tree confirmed that sequences of HA‐TJ COX1 clustered with a single clad of H. analoticum, H. excavatum, and H. detritum. The acaricidal effect of B. thuringiensis toxins B. thuringiensis spore crystal mix (BtSCM) and B. thuringiensis crystal proteins (Btcps) was evaluated against larvae and adult life stages of Hyalomma ticks in vitro. We applied Btcps and BtSCM separately with different concentrations and calculated the mortality percentage. Adult mortality was estimated at the 8th, 10th, 12th, and 15th days posttreatment and larval mortality after 24 h. During treatment of the adult life stage, at first, ticks were immersed in different concentrations of Btcps and BtSCM for 5 min after the treatments, and the samples were transferred to sterile containers and placed in an incubator with 80% humidity at 23°C. Furthermore, Btcps produced the highest mortality on Day 15, 89 ± 1.00% at a concentration of 3000 μg/mL, followed by the 12th, 10th, and 8th days produced 83 ± 1.91%, 70 ± 1.15%, and 61 ± 1.00%, respectively. BtSCM produced mortality of 69 ± 1.91% on Day 15 at a concentration of 3000 μg/mL, followed by the 12th, 10th, and 8th days at 57 ± 2.51%, 37 ± 1.91%, and 34 ± 2.00%. The present study revealed that B. thuringiensis toxins produced a significant (p < 0.05) increase in mortality rate in adults of Hyalomma ticks. Additionally, Btcps and BtSCM were used to treat the larval stage. The treatments were applied to calculate the mortality percentage via the Laravel packet test. At a 1500 μg/mL concentration, Btcps resulted in the highest mortality of 98 ± 1.15%; this was followed by 1250 μg/mL, 1000 μg/mL, and 750 μg/mL, which produced mortalities of 76 ± 1.63%, 60 ± 1.63%, and 56 ± 1.63%, respectively. In addition, BtSCM produced a mortality rate of 79 ± 2.51% at a concentration of 1500 μg/mL. Furthermore, 75 ± 2.51%, 65 ± 1.91%, and 58 ± 1.15% mortality were observed at concentrations of 1250 μg/mL, 1000 μg/mL, and 750 μg/mL, respectively. The results showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in larval mortality compared to the control group. We conclude that B. thuringiensis toxins are applicable as a bioacaricide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The destructive effects of burning conventional fossil fuels on the environment have created the realisation of the significance of using alternative fuels as a mitigating measure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One of the most promising and environmentally friendly substitutes for petroleumbased gasoline fuel is bioethanol. This study uses agricultural residue (bagasse), halophytes and non-edible biomass as feedstocks to produce bioethanol, through lignin content extraction from Panicum antidotale, Phragmites karka, Sugarcane bagasse, Jatropha curcas husk and Conocarpus erectus leaves and then cellulose reduced by acid pretreatment followed by hydrolysis. The cellulose content was found higher in Panicum antidotale (43.39 percent) and lowest in Jatropha curcas husk (35.10 percent), while moderate values of (42.81 percent) in Sugarcane bagasse, Phragmites karka (37.48 percent), and Conocarpus erectus (38.53 percent). At the beginning and end of the fermentation process, the total carbohydrate contents of the hydrolysed biomass were analysed, and their bioethanol yields were measured. Maximum reducing sugar was found 19 gm/L (1.186 lb/ft3 ) in Panicum antidotale followed by Phragmites karka, sugarcane bagasse, Jatropha curcas husk, and Conocarpus erectus leaves as 15.89 gm/L (0.991 lb/ft³ ) and 12.09 gm/L (0.754 lb/ft3 ), 10.52 gm/L (0.656 lb/ft3 ), 4.51 gm/L (0.281 lb/ft3 ), respectively. Bioethanol percentage yield by volume was found as 4.36 percent (Panicum antidotale), 3.93 percent (Phragmites karka), 2.87 percent (Jatropha curcas husk), 2.52 percent (sugarcane bagasse) and 1.64 percent (Conocarpus erectus leaves), respectively. The results showed the potential of producing eco-friendly bioethanol as biofuels from halophytes that will help ease the strain on food crops by providing inexpensive and abundant feedstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dalbergia sissoo L. and Catharanthus roseus L. are important medicinal plants used since olden times for the treatment of various diseases like skin diseases, eye ailments and inflammatory conditions. The main aim of the study was to assess the pharmacological effects of D. sissoo leaves extract (DSLE) and C. roseus leaves extract (CRLE) for the treatment of inflammation associated corneal neovascularization (CNV). Both plant materials were powdered and extracted with the methanol. Phytochemical evaluation of methanol extract of D. sissoo leaves and C. roseus leaves was performed using different chemical tests and thin layer chromatography (TLC). Pharmacological effects of DSLE and CRLE were carried out using chemically induced CNV in animal model. Histological analysis of corneal tissues was also performed. Phytochemical evaluation of the extracts has demonstrated the presence of major phytochemicals like flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenes, and steroids in the DSLE and alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, steroids, and phenols in the CRLE. TLC of both extracts also indicated the presence of different phytochemicals. Photographic analysis of DSLE and CRLE demonstrated that they had inhibited the CNV positively as compared to the vehicle control and positive control groups. Histological analysis of both extracts confirmed the results of photographic analysis that indicated the recovery and rearrangement of corneal fibers and absence of inflammatory cells and blood vessels. Findings from the current study suggest that the DSLE and CRLE can be used for the treatment of CNV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main input of this research is the introduction of the concept of double weak Hopf quiver (DWHQ). In addition, the structures of weak Hopf algebra (WHA) are obtained through path coalgebra of the proposed quivers. Furthermore, the module and comodule structures on the said WHA are discussed. Moreover, the classification of the semilattice-graded WHA structures of the path coalgebra obtained from the so called DWHQ was presented. This contributes a step further in the development of the module and comodule structures of more general algebras. These structures are important in the physics for dynamic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To determine the prevalence and causes of blindness, vision impairment and cataract surgery coverage among Rohingya refugees aged ≥ 50 years residing in camps in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. Methods: We used the Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) methodology to select 76 clusters of 50 participants aged ≥ 50 years with probability proportionate to size. Demographic and cataract surgery data were collected using questionnaires, visual acuity was assessed per World Health Organization criteria and examinations were conducted by torch, and with direct ophthalmoscopy in eyes with pinhole-corrected vision <6/12. RAAB software was used for data entry and analysis. Results: We examined 3,629 of 3800 selected persons (95.5%). Age and sex adjusted prevalence of blindness (<3/60), severe visual impairment (SVI; >3/60 to ≤6/60), moderate visual impairment (MVI; >6/60 to ≤6/18), and early visual impairment (EVI; >6/18 to ≤6/12) were 2.14%, 2.35%, 9.68% and 14.7% respectively. Cataract was responsible for 75.0% of blindness and 75.8% of SVI, while refractive error caused 47.9% and 90.9% of MVI and EVI respectively. Most vision loss (95.9%) was avoidable. Cataract surgical coverage among the blind was 81.2%. Refractive error was detected in 17.1% (n = 622) of participants and 95.2% (n = 592) of these did not have spectacles. In the full Rohingya cohort of 76,692, approximately 10,000 surgeries are needed to correct all eyes impaired (<6/18) by cataract, 12,000 need distance glasses and 73,000 require presbyopic correction. Conclusion: The prevalence of blindness was lower than expected for a displaced population, in part due to few Rohingya being ≥60 years and the camp's good access to cataract surgery. We suggest the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees include eye care among recommended health services for all refugees with long-term displacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the correlation between mean RDW values and mean SYNTAX scores in patients of non ST elevation myocardial infarction. Methodology: This descriptive study was conducted at adult Angiography Department of Faisalabad Institute of Cardiology, Faisalabad from September, 2018 to October, 2018. A total of 130 patients were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into high (n=89) and low (n=41) SYNTAX groups. The high SYNTAX group was defined as patients with value in the third tertile (SYNTAX score, SX score ≥ 33) while the group with low SNTAX score was defined as patients with values in the lower 2 tertiles (SYNTAX score, SX score < 33). The high RDW group was defined as patients with RDW value > 16% and the low RDW group as those with RDW value < 16%. Results: The mean RDW value was correlated with mean SYNTAX score in both groups. The RDW levels were significantly high in patients with high SNTAX score than those with low SYNTAX score (16.2± 1.8 vs. 14.2 ± 1.2, p <0.001). Pearson's coefficient was used to determine the correlation between RDW levels and SYNTAX scores. There was a significant positive correlation between mean RDW value and mean SYNTAX score value (r=0.831, p <0.001). Conclusion: We found a positive and significant correlation between mean RDW values and mean SYNTAX scores in patients of non-ST elevation myocardial infarction. This reflects the utility of RDW being a non-invasive and readily available laboratory test to determine the severity and complexity of coronary disease in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a growing awareness that addressing chronic as well as acute health conditions may contribute importantly to the well-being of displaced populations, but eye care service has generally not been prioritized in crisis situations. We describe a replicable model of eye care provision as delivered by Orbis International and local partners to the Rohingya and host population in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, and characterize the burden of vision impairment and demand for sight-restoring services in this setting.Methods and Findings: Orbis International and local secondary facility Cox's Bazar Baitush Sharaf Hospital (CBBSH) provide eye care support to the Rohingya population and the host community of all ages in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, with fixed vision screening locations established in Camps 4 and 11 of the Kutupalong refugee settlement. Structured outreach targets these camps and four surrounding local subdistricts, with referrals made as needed for refraction (glasses measurement) and cataract surgery to CBBSH. Between February 2018 and March 2019, 48,105 displaced Rohingya (70.3%, among whom 71.6% were children and 46.5% women) and 20,357 local residents (29.7%, 88.5% children, 54.4% women) underwent vision screening. Displaced Rohingya sought services from a total of 12 surrounding camps, within which coverage was 17.3%, including 43.3% (27,027/62,424) of children aged 5-11 years and 60.0% (5,315/8,857) of adults ≥ 60 years old. The prevalence of blindness (presenting acuity < 3/60) among Rohingya patients exceeded that among local residents by 3- to 6-fold in each 10-year age group between 18 and 59 years (P < 0.001 comparing vision between the two groups in this age range), and the prevalence of cataract requiring surgery was also higher in Rohingya patients (18-29 years: 4.67% versus 1.80%, P = 0.0019; 30-39: 7.61% versus 2.39%, P < 0.001; and 40-49 years: 7.91% versus 3.77%, P = 0.0014). A limitation of the study is lack of data on population prevalence of eye disease.Conclusions: The burden of untreated eye disease is very high among the Rohingya, particularly those in their peak working years who could contribute most to the resiliency of their community. Demand for eye care service is also great among children and adults in this population with many competing healthcare priorities. Research is needed, building on strong evidence of benefit in settled populations, to explore the specific impact of vision care on the well-being of displaced populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquatic ecosystems are of global importance for maintaining high levels of biodiversity and ecosystem services, and for the number of livelihoods dependent on them. In Bangladesh, coastal and delta communities rely on these systems for a livelihood, and the sustainability of the productivity is seriously threatened by both climate change and unsustainable management. These multiple drivers of change shape the livelihood dependence and adaptation responses, where a better understanding is needed to achieve sustainable management in these systems, while maintaining and improving dependent livelihoods. This need has been addressed in this study in the region of Satkhira, in the southwest coast of Bangladesh, where livelihoods are highly dependent on aquatic systems for food supply and income. Traditional wild fish harvest in the rivers and aquaculture systems, including ghers , ponds, and crab points have been changing in terms of the uses and intensity of management, and suffering from climate change impacts as well. By means of six focus groups with 50 participants total, and validated by expert consultations, we conduct an analysis to understand the main perceived impacts from climate and human activities; and the adaptation responses from the aquatic system livelihoods. We find that biodiversity has decreased drastically, while farmed species have increased and shrimp gher farming turned more intensive becoming the main source of income. All these changes have important implications for food supply in the region and environmental sustainability. Dramatic responses taken in the communities include exit the fisheries and migration, and more adaptive responses include species diversification, crab fattening and working more on the pond and gher infrastructure. This study evidences the results of the combination of multiple stressors in productive systems and the barriers to adaptation in aquatic ecosystem dependent communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Higher mode effects play a major role in the seismic demands of high-rise buildings. Several recent studies have shown that seismic design demands such as design shear and bending moment in high-rise buildings cannot be predicted by the conventional code-based response spectrum analysis procedure. These can be determined by the more rigorous and accurate non-linear response history analysis procedure, but this procedure is computationally very extensive and time consuming. Yet a non-linear static pushover analysis cannot account for higher mode effects. Therefore, the applicability of a multi-modal pushover analysis (MMPA) procedure using elastic target displacement to cases of 20- 30- and 40-storey high-rise reinforced concrete core wall buildings is investigated in this study. The results obtained by the elastic displacement MMPA (EDMMPA) procedure are compared with those obtained from non-linear analysis. The comparison shows that EDMMPA can satisfactorily estimate the design shear force, bending moment and deformation demands with a variation of 10–20%. Thus, this computationally less demanding analysis can serve as a base line for preliminary design of high-rise reinforced concrete core wall buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventionally, a flexural plastic hinge is assigned and detailed at the core wall base and coupling beams ends to control seismic responses. This strategy is based on allowing damage to main structural components. To avoid damage to main structural components, an alternative strategy using energy dissipating devices, such as fluid viscous dampers (FVDs), is currently being studied and implemented. In this study, the effect of FVD locations on a 40-storey, high-rise, reinforced-concrete core wall case study building has been studied in detail using non-linear response history analysis for seven spectrally matched ground motions. FVDs were installed at strategic locations, identified based on maximum 'design basis earthquake' elastic modal racking shear deformation demands and force (shear and moment) demands in three different options. The force, deformation and energy demands on structural components are compared for conventional design and different options of FVDs. The comparison with conventional design shows that FVDs are effective not only for reducing shear force demand along wall height, bending moment demand at midheight and deformation demands by 10, 45 and 35%, respectively, but also significantly reduce the rotation and energy demands in the core wall by 60 and 450%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-rise reinforced-concrete core wall buildings are a very popular choice in areas of high seismic activity. Conventionally, a single plastic hinge is allowed at the base of the wall to control responses in these buildings. Recent studies, however, show that these core walls will be subjected to large inelastic seismic demands in a seismic event. It is not economical and sometimes difficult to design these walls for large shear and moment demands. To reduce these demands, a multiple plastic hinges concept is proposed in this study. Locations of the multiple plastic hinges are identified using elastic modal decomposition analysis. A 40-storey case study building is investigated in detail to check the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The seismic demands are found using non-linear response history analysis at maximum considered earthquake level. A comparison of the multiple plastic hinges approach with the single plastic hinge approach shows that seismic shear demand reduces 17% at the base of the wall, whereas moment demand reduces 33 and 60% at the base and mid-height of the wall, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventionally, a flexural plastic hinge is designed and detailed at the core wall base and coupling beams ends to control the seismic responses. This strategy is based on allowing the damage to be concentrated on main structural components. To avoid such damage, an alternative strategy using energy dissipating devices (EDDs) such as buckling restrained braces (BRBs) is being studied and implemented nowadays. In this study, effect of BRBs locations on forty- (40-) story high-rise RC core wall case study building has been studied in detail using Nonlinear Response History Analysis (NLRHA) for seven spectrally matched ground motions. BRBs have been installed at critical locations identified with respect to the maximum DBE elastic modal racking shear deformation demands and force (shear and moment) demands in three different options. The force, deformation, and energy demands on structural components are compared for conventional design and different options of BRBs. The comparison with conventional design shows that BRBs not only are effective for reducing shear force demand along wall height, bending moment demand at mid height, and deformation demands by 10%, 45%, and 45%, respectively, but significantly reduce the rotation and energy demands in the core wall by 90% and 250%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study was done to find HbA1c levels in diabetes mellitus (DM) patients presenting at Bolan Medical Complex Hospital Quetta and observe the effects of antihyperglycemic treatment and physical exercise on HbA1c level. Study design: A cross sectional comparative study. Patients and methods: One hundred (100) patients were selected from Bolan Medical complex Hospital Quetta. Patients were divided in three groups. Group A included the patients who were on antihyperglycemic drugs, following dietary restrictions and doing physical exercises. Group B included patients who were on antihyperglycemic drugs following dietary restrictions but not doing physical exercises. Group C included the patients who were not using any antihyperglycemic drug, not following dietary restriction and not doing any physical exercise. HbA1c of all patients was determined, data was analyzed using SPSS. Anova was applied. Results: HbA1c of group A was higher than group B and group C. HbA1c of group B was higher than group C. Conclusions: HbA1c is a valuable test for monitoring glucose control over extended period of time and plays role in taking measures to avoid diabetes mellitus complications, therefore it should be tested regularly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Child mortality is a major challenge to public health in Pakistan and other developing countries. Reduction of the child mortality rate would improve public health and enhance human well-being and prosperity. This study recognizes the spatial clusters of child mortality across districts of Pakistan and identifies the direct and spatial spillover effects of determinants on the Child Mortality Rate (CMR). Method: Data of the multiple indicators cluster survey (MICS) conducted by the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) was used to study the CMR. We used spatial univariate autocorrelation to test the spatial dependence between contiguous districts concerning CMR. We also applied the Spatial Durbin Model (SDM) to measure the spatial spillover effects of factors on CMR. Results: The study results showed 31% significant spatial association across the districts and identified a cluster of hot spots characterized by the high-high CMR in the districts of Punjab province. The empirical analysis of the SDM confirmed that the direct and spatial spillover effect of the poorest wealth quintile and MPI vulnerability on CMR is positive whereas access to postnatal care to the newly born child and improved drinking water has negatively (directly and indirectly) determined the CMR in Pakistan. Conclusion: The instant results concluded that spatial dependence and significant spatial spillover effects concerning CMR exist across districts. Prioritization of the hot spot districts characterized by higher CMR can significantly reduce the CMR with improvement in financial statuses of households from the poorest quintile and MPI vulnerability as well as improvement in accessibility to postnatal care services and safe drinking water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study was conducted to determine serum lipid profile in children of premature coronary heart disease patients and compare results between children having parents with one, two or three risk factors. Study Design: A cross sectional comparative study. Patients and Methods: Ninety seven (97) subjects having parents with one risk factor, sixty three (63) subjects having parents with two risk factors and sixty five (65) subjects having parents with three risk factors were selected from Punjab Institute of Cardiology Lahore. Fifty (50) age and sex matched subjects of parents without a history of coronary heart disease were also selected. The serum total cholesterol, serum triglycerides, serum low density lipoprotein cholesterol and serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol was performed and results were compared. Results: Offsprings of parents having more number of risk factors had statistically significantly high total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol as compared with offsprings of parents having one risk factor. Triglycerides and high density lipoprotein cholesterol of offsprings of parents having one, two, three or more than three risk factors were comparable. Offsprings of parents having premature coronary heart disease (CHD) had abnormal lipid levels as compared with control group. Conclusions: Coronary heart disease risk factors are significant regarding abnormal lipid levels. Offsprings of premature CHD patients are prone to develop CHD as compared to normal control group. Genetic predisposition seems to be important in development of CHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heteroscedasticity consistent covariance matrix estimators are commonly used for the testing of regression coefficients when error terms of regression model are heteroscedastic. These estimators are based on the residuals obtained from the method of ordinary least squares and this method yields inefficient estimators in the presence of heteroscedasticity. It is usual practice to use estimated weighted least squares method or some adaptive methods to find efficient estimates of the regression parameters when the form of heteroscedasticity is unknown. But HCCM estimators are seldom derived from such efficient estimators for testing purposes in the available literature. The current article addresses the same concern and presents the weighted versions of HCCM estimators. Our numerical work uncovers the performance of these estimators and their finite sample properties in terms of interval estimation and null rejection rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to use Clifford monoids to define weak Hopf quivers and to construct the corresponding class of weak Hopf algebras, i.e., the semilattice of graded weak Hopf algebras which were found to be useful in obtaining a regular R-matrix of a quantum double without a quasi-triangular structure. We define weak Hopf quivers and classify the semilattice of graded weak Hopf algebra structures over path coalgebras using weak Hopf quivers. This gives, precisely, a generalization of the classification of the graded weak Hopf algebra structures over path coalgebras using such quivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use a technique introduced by M. Beattie et al for constructing finite dimensional pointed Hopf algebras. We apply this technique to obtain the Ore extension of the algebra kS of a finite commutative Clifford monoid S. This Ore extension is a non-commutative and non-cocommutative pointed semilattice graded weak Hopf algebra. Its quotients are finite dimensional pointed semilattice graded weak Hopf algebras. Finally, we obtain the Ore extension of the algebra of the dual of the commutative Clifford monoid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sorption behavior of 3.18×10 -6 mol l -1 solution of Tm(III) metal ions onto 7.25 mg l -1 of 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN) loaded polyurethane foam (PUF) has been investigated at different temperatures i.e. 303 K, 313 K, and 323 K. The maximum equilibration time of sorption was 30 minutes from pH 7.5 buffer solution at all temperatures. The various rate parameters of adsorption process have been investigated. The diffusional activation energy (?E ads ) and activation entropy (?S ads ) of the system were found to be 22.1±2.6 kJ mol -1 and 52.7±6.2 J mol -1 K -1 , respectively. The thermodynamic parameters such as enthalpy (?H), entropy (?S), and Gibbs free energy (?G) were calculated and interpreted. The positive value of ?H and negative value of ?G indicate that sorption is endothermic and spontaneous in nature, respectively. The adsorption isotherms such as Freundlich, Langmuir, and Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherm were tested experimentally at different temperatures. The changes in adsorption isotherm constants were discussed. The binding energy constant (b) of Langmuir isotherm increases with temperature. The differential heat of adsorption (?H diff ), entropy of adsorption (?S diff ) and adsorption free energy (?G ads ) at 313 K were determined and found to be 38±2 kJ mol -1 , 249±3 J mol -1 K -1 and –40.1±1.1 kJ mol -1 , respectively. The stability of sorbed complex and mechanism involved in adsorption process has been discussed using different thermodynamic parameters and sorption free energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Picrolonic acid (HPA) in methylisobutylketone (MIBK) (0.01 mol. dm-3) has been used for the extraction of lanthanide(III) ions such as Sm(III), Gd(III) and Ho(III) (Me) (~3. 10-6mol. dm-3) from pH 1-2 buffer solutions of 0.1 mol. dm-3(H+, Cl-) ionic strength and quantitative extraction (>95%) was found at pH 2. Through slope analysis the composition of the organometallic adduct responsible for the extraction came out to be M(PA)3. The conditional equilibrium constant values, log K ex, were deduced to be 2.60±0.01, 2.09±0.01 and 1.44±0.03 for these lanthanide(III) ions, respectively. The metals in concentration up to ~2.5. 10-4mol. dm-3can be quantitatively extracted by the proposed system. Among the various anions, fluoride, oxalate and cyanide ions (~3.0. 10-4mol. dm-3) and, among the cations, Zn(II) Cu(II), Co(II) and Fe(III) reduced the lanthanide extraction. The extraction of various other metal ions at the optimized conditions of Me extraction for this series of lanthanide ions was also studied and high separation factors (102-103) were obtained showing the good selectivity of this extraction system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sorption behaviour of 2.5 × 10-5M solution of Cd(II) on polyurethane foam (PUF) from iodide medium have been investigated. The conditions were optimized from aqueous solutions of different pH (1–10) and of acids of varied concentration (0.01–1.0M). The maximum concentration of KI was found to be 0.24M and equilibration time was established to be 20min. The data successfully followed the Freundlich and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) isotherms at low metal ion concentration while Langmuir isotherm followed at higher metal ion concentration. The Freundlich parameter 1/n = 0.66 ± 0.02 have been evaluated whereas D–R isotherm yields the sorption free energy E = 10.5 ± 0.1kJmol-1 indicating ion exchange type chemisorption. The monolayer coverage (XL) constant of Langmuir isotherm was found to be 23.7 ± 0.4mgg-1. The numerical values of thermodynamics parameters enthalpy (ΔH), entropy (ΔS) and Gibbs free energy (ΔG) indicated the endothermic and spontaneous nature of sorption. The Scatchard plot analysis was tested to evaluate the binding sites of the PUF and stability constants of sorption were determined. On the basis of these parameters, the sorption mechanism was discussed. Among the foreign ions tested, Pb(II), Hg(II), cyanide and nitrite should be absent. The clean separation of Cd(II) from Zn(II) ions in the ratio 1:250, respectively, was achieved by column chromatography. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A new method to estimate the pore volume of porous styrene–divinylbenzene copolymer beads is proposed. The estimated pore volume (PVe) is based on the solubility parameters (δi) and the corresponding weight fractions (fi) of styrene, divinylbenzenes and diluents in the polymerization mixture. The equation used is: PVe=1.136∑δifi2-21.193∑δifi+98.825. Regression analysis results show that an ideally close match of the predicted pore volume and the pore volume determined by mercury porosimeter is achieved with R2=0.99, when non-polar and moderately polar liquids are employed as diluents. In the case of strongly polar (H-bonding) liquids as diluents, the method should be used only to predict a trend towards an increase or decrease in pore volume, which occurs as a result of variation in the composition of polymerization mixture. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Macroporous styrene-divinylbenzene beads having pore volume in the range of 0.1–2.2 ml/g were synthesized by o/w suspension polymerization using petroleum ether and cyclohexanone as porogen. As the pore volume was increased the pore size distribution shifted towards large pore diameter and the mechanical strength of the beads in the dry state decreased. The copolymers were converted into cation-exchange resins by sulfonation under controlled experimental conditions. The derived resins had the highest capacity when the base copolymers had pore volume in the range of 0.3–0.4 ml/g. The results are explained on the basis of the effect of the porogen on the spaces between chains and cross-links in the copolymer phase and the permanent pores in the beads. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pulsed corona discharges have been utilized for plasma polymerization in aqueous solution for the first time. Superabsorbent copolymers, i.e., poly(acrylamide-co-acrylic acid) hydrogels, were synthesized by aqueous solution polymerization using free radicals produced by pulsed corona discharges as initiator and N,N-methylene-bis-acrylamide as cross-linking agent. Acrylic acid contents in the monomers varied from 0% to 50%. The copolymers thus formed adsorbed 30–1100 g H2O/g of copolymer. The FTIR spectra of the copolymers are comparable with the published FTIR spectra of the corresponding copolymers synthesized by a conventional chemical method and by γ-ray technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adsorption studies of Eu(III) and Tm(III) was investigated on 4-(2-pyridylazo) resorcinol (PAR) loaded polyurethane foam (PUF). The sorption conditions were optimized with respect to pH, shaking time, and loading capacity. Kinetic of sorption of Eu(III) and Tm(III) were evaluated at different intervals of time. The diffusion coefficient of Eu(III) and Tm(III) are found to be 4.48 × 10−5 cm2 sec−1 and 7.81 × 10−5 cm2 sec−1. The Freundlich constant (1/n) are estimated to be 0.56 and 0.47 for Eu(III) and Tm(III), respectively, reflects a surface heterogeneity of the PUF. Langmuir isotherm gives a saturated capacity of 1.95 × 10−5 mol g−1 for Eu(III) and 1.01 × 10−4 mol g−1 for Tm(III), suggest a monolayer coverage of the surface. The Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) isotherm is applied and the sorption mean free energy (E) was calculated and was in the range 11–12 kJ mol−1 suggesting chemisorption involving chemical bonding is responsible for the adsorption process. The thermodynamics parameters such as enthalpy (ΔH), entropy (ΔS) and Gibbs free energy (ΔG) were calculated and interpreted. The large negative values of ΔH indicates that the adsorption of metal ions on PAR-loaded PUF is an exothermic process. A possible explanation of this exothermicity related to bonding has been given. The sorption is greatly affected in the presence of oxalate, citrate, tartrate, and phosphate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sorption of iodine on polyurethane foam (PUF) has been investigated. The maximum sorption of 0.01 N of iodine solution on PUF was found to be >95% from 0.2 N HCl aqueous solution. The maximum equilibration was attained with 30 min agitation time. The iodine number was found to be 436±15 mg g-1. The average pore diameter of PUF was 8.3 nm and total surface area was 67 m2 g-1. The kinetic data indicates that the intraparticle diffusion rate of adsorption (Rd) and rate of mass action (k1) of iodine sorption on PUF were 0.48±0.03 mmole g-1 min-1/2 and 52±8 mmole g-1 min-1, respectively. The sorption data followed both Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption isotherms in the concentration range 0.03 N to 0.15 N of iodine. The Freundlich constants Cm=11.2±1.7 mmole g-1 and 1/n=0.57±0.05, and Langmuir constants M=4.9±0.6 mmole g-1 and b=12.9±1.3 L g-1 were established. The sorption free energy (E)=5.3±0.2 kJ mole-1 and loading capacity Xm=5.15±0.45 mmole g-1 were evaluated using D–R isotherm. The sorption energy reflects the physiosorption of iodine on PUF. The effect of temperature on the sorption yields the thermodynamic parameters ΔH=50±2 kJ mole-1 and ΔS=170±4 J mole-1 K-1. The Gibbs free energy (ΔG) ranges from 3.72 to -2.15 kJ mole-1, suggesting the endothermic nature of sorption of iodine, but is favorable at higher temperatures (>313K). The effect of different anions and cations on the sorption of iodine on PUF have been evaluated and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifactor component-amount designs are introduced. A method for the construction of multifactor component-amount design is devised. The method uses the kronecker product of matrices obtained from a single factor D-optimal component-amount design and an adjacency/incidence matrix of an undirected graph over a field 2 F. Further G-efficiency of designs is computed for two and three factors quadratic mixture component-amount models. This method can be used equally when factors have same or different number of components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the frequency of fragmented QRS complex in patients with acute non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Study Design: Cross-Sectional Study. Setting: Department of Cardiology, Faisalabad Institute of Cardiology, Faisalabad. Period: July 15, 2019 to January 15, 2020. Material & Methods: One hundred and forty five diagnosed patients of NSTEMI on the basis of chest pain and positive troponin-I were included in this study. The electrocardiography (ECG) was performed to document the presence or absence of f QRS complex in these patients. A 12-lead ECG with paper speed of 25 or 50 mm per second and a voltage of 10 mm/mv was used. FQRS was labeled (as per operational definition). The collected data were entered and analyzed statistically by using SPSS v25.0. Data were stratified for age, gender, diabetes, smoking and hypertension. Post-stratification, f QRS complex was compared by Chi-Square test in stratified groups. A p-value ≤0.05 was taken as significant. Results: Total 145 patients presenting with NSTEMI were selected for this study. Mean age of the patients was 48.2±12.3 year. Among these patients, 90(62.1%) were males, while 55(37.9%) were females. Overall frequency of fQRS complex in patients with NSTEMI was 64(44.1%). Conclusion: There is an association of fQRS among patients with acute non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Further prospective studies are needed to determine the clinical significance of fQRS complex and identify its correlation with the incidence of possible complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare nickel ion concentration in saliva of candidates whether wearing fixed orthodontic appliances or not presenting for their routine orthodontic assessment. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Orthodontics, Dental Section, Sandeman Provincial Hospital, Quetta, from Mar 2017 to Aug 2017. Methodology: All patients presenting to orthodontic department who fulfilled inclusion criteria were included in this study. Sample was collected after rinsing mouth with distilled water for 30 sec, and their saliva was collected after 2 mins. Saliva (5ml) was collected from each subject. The samples were stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days before submitting for analysis of nickel concentration in saliva. Results: The mean age of candidates was 15.95 ± 3.63 years in arch wire group and 17.25 ± 3.91 in control group. There were 5 (25%) males and 15 (75%) females in arch wire group and 4 (20%) males and 16 (80%) females in control group. In this study, mean nickel concentration was 15.83 ± 12.96ng/ml in arch wire group while 10.21 ± 9.56ng/ml in control group. The difference was insignificant (p>0.05). Conclusion: The concertation of nickel was high in arch wire wearers but the difference was observed to be insignificant regarding nickel concentration in saliva whether patients wear arch wire or not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recognizing the need for improving maternal and newborn care, the Punjab public health department (Pakistan) launched emergency obstetric neonatal care (EmONC) services under WHO guideline. Unfortunately, the program implementation is facing some serious problems. The purpose of this study was to identify barriers to implementation of EmONC in district Bahawalnagar (Pakistan). Methods: This study used sequential exploratory design. Specifically, a qualitative study was conducted to identify barriers to EmONC. Subsequently, the relative importance of these barriers was determined in a quantitative study. Participants were health service providers involved in 24-hours basic EmONC services in the basic health units of district Bahawalnagar (Pakistan). Qualitative data were gathered by interviewing the participants using key informant guide. Quantitative data were collected in a rank order survey of the same participants. The methodological quality was assessed using mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT) version 2011. Results: The results indicate that lack of teamwork, conflict management, communication, and improper power distribution are important interpersonal barriers. The significant organizational-level barriers include job insecurity, lack of organizational culture, human resource deployment issues, and lack of role clarity. Lack of target management, lack of resource availability, house job requirement, and dual practice issues were identified as major system-level barriers. Conclusion: Barriers to EmONC implementation must be addressed for improving maternal and neonatal care in district Bahawalnagar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this study, a new inorganic-organic nano fibrous membrane (PTSNFM) has been fabricated via immobilization of carbazol-based Schiff base (S) into a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) - tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) polymeric support using the electrospinning method. PTSNFM has been used as an optode to detect and remove of mercury (II) ions. The characterization of PTSNFM has been fully carried out using different methods including FE-SEM, TEM, AFM, viscosity, surface tension and conductivity. FE-SEM and FT-IR analysis demonstrated the binding of Hg (II) to the PTSNFM via chelating of Hg (II) to the Schiff base ligand. PTSNFM can detect Hg (II) in the dynamic range of 0.020–0.50 ng/mL, with the LOD of 0.0180 ng/mL. PTSNFM has been evaluated in the some aqueous real samples showing the removal efficiency in the range of 97.78–99.41%. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Ultrasound-assisted fabrication of a C N modified nanofibrous membrane (PTSNFM). • Application of PTSNFM to detect mercury (II) ions in the aqueous medium. • PTSNFM can capture Hg (II) ions in the dynamic range of 0.020-0.50 ng/mL, with the LOD of 0.0180 ng/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) appears capable of detecting diabetic retinopathy (DR) with a high degree of accuracy in adults; however, there are few studies in children and young adults. Methods: Children and young adults (3-26 years) with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were screened at the Dhaka BIRDEM-2 hospital, Bangladesh. All gradable fundus images were uploaded to Cybersight AI for interpretation. Two main outcomes were considered at a patient level: 1) Any DR, defined as mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR or more severe; and 2) Referable DR, defined as moderate NPDR or more severe. Diagnostic test performance comparing Orbis International's Cybersight AI with the reference standard, a fully qualified optometrist certified in DR grading, was assessed using the Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC), area under the precision-recall curve (AUC-PR), sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values. Results: Among 1274 participants (53.1% female, mean age 16.7 years), 19.4% (n = 247) had any DR according to AI. For referable DR, 2.35% (n = 30) were detected by AI. The sensitivity and specificity of AI for any DR were 75.5% (CI 69.7-81.3%) and 91.8% (CI 90.2-93.5%) respectively, and for referable DR, these values were 84.2% (CI 67.8-100%) and 98.9% (CI 98.3%-99.5%). The MCC, AUC-ROC and the AUC-PR for referable DR were 63.4, 91.2 and 76.2% respectively. AI was most successful in accurately classifying younger children with shorter duration of diabetes. Conclusions: Cybersight AI accurately detected any DR and referable DR among children and young adults, despite its algorithms having been trained on adults. The observed high specificity is particularly important to avoid over-referral in low-resource settings. AI may be an effective tool to reduce demands on scarce physician resources for the care of children with diabetes in low-resource settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to study the semen parameters and its relation to hormonal status in infertile men. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Period: March 2015 to April 2017. Setting: Jinnah Hospital Fertility Centre; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lahore. Method: A total of 70 infertile men were included in this study. Semen samples for semen analysis and serum for hormonal analysis were obtained and further tests were performed. Results: The results of our study show that 28.57% were Normospermic, 18.56% were azoospermic and 52.85% were Oligospermic. In Oligospermic and azoospermic patients significant low levels of testosterone and prolactin were noticed. The results indicate that along with semen parameters hormonal levels should also be assessed to diagnose the underlying cause of infertility. Conclusion: It is concluded from our study that both quality of semen and hormonal levels cause infertility in men. Therefore the patients should be properly investigated and should be treated accordingly to the underlying abnormality. This is a regional study and further studies should be conducted to have a conclusive evidence at national level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted in Departmental Library of the Institute of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan during the year 2014, using content analysis methodology. The objective was to analyse citations of research methodologies used in M.Sc. dissertations submitted to the Department. The library contained more than 360 M.Sc. (Hons.) dissertations on various field related topics. Dissertations submitted to the Department of Agricultural Extension from the year 2000-2009 (10 years) were studied and analyzed carefully. Based on identified units of analysis, each selected dissertation was evaluated. The content analysis sheet was developed keeping in view the objective of study. The data collection sheet so prepared was pre-tested on five dissertations to check the suitability. The sheet was finalized after making amendments in the illumination of pre-testing experience. The data were collected with the help of data collection sheet. The data were obtained by reading certain parts of the each dissertation selected for the study. The data thus collected, were entered in SPSS in order to develop data spreadsheet. Computer software SPSS used for data analysis. The data were tabulated and simple percentages were worked out for interpretation, discussion, drawing conclusions and suggest appropriate recommendations. Most of the dissertations (36.7%) were based on effectiveness/role/impact of the agricultural social aspects followed by assessing adoption level (13.9%). Moreover majority (77.2%) of the dissertations used simple random sampling for selection of respondents followed by systematic random sampling (8.9 %). It is suggested that newly emerging research themes based on field oriented problems should be addressed. As far as sampling techniques are concerned, it is proposed that other than simple random sampling techniques; cluster sampling nominal group etc. should also be used for effective description of data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shrimp ( Penaeus monodon) farming is a traditional aquaculture in southwest coastal Bangladesh. Changes in both the farming practice and yield of shrimp since the advent of commercial production in this area are evident in scientific studies. We assessed the historical perspective of shrimp farming indicating the major phase changes and present situation of the shrimp farming practice including recent changes in yield and cost-benefit. A systematic random sampling method was employed to conduct a total of 240 questionnaire surveys, 24 focused group discussions, and 60 key informant interviews in six sub-districts (upazila) from southwest coastal Bangladesh. We identified four major phase changes in the history of shrimp farming in southwest coastal Bangladesh and found that shrimp mixed culture is the most preferable form of extensive cultivation at present. Shrimp farmers' perceptions about changes in shrimp yield and changes in availability of ecosystem services represent declining trends over the last two decades. For 2015, shrimp yield was not significantly different with respect to salinity levels. The net benefit from shrimp mixed culture in 2015 was 121,000 taka/ha, which is 2.35 times higher compared to the net benefit from only shrimp (51,500 taka/ha). In this context, promoting shrimp mixed cultivation could be a management solution for sustainable development of shrimp farming in southwest coastal Bangladesh. The National Shrimp Policy of the government also emphasized on promoting environment-friendly shrimp mixed cultivation for sustainable development of shrimp farming. However, more institutional support such as training, extension support, technical assistance, and credit facility is required to implement the policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this research is to explore the domestic and international causes of terrorism specific to Pakistan. Given that the country is a victim of widespread terrorist activities, an inquiry into the causes of terrorism is required. In-depth interviews and content analysis have been used to explore the initial causes of terrorism. Based on the results of content analysis a quantitative analysis was conducted to collect rank-order data from experts. The results indicate that the most important causes of terrorism include lack of law enforcement, poverty, Pakistan's participation in war on terror, foreign involvement, and unemployment. This study concludes that no cause has a unilateral connection with terrorism, and focusing on a single factor may not suggest effective policy measures. This research suggests a multifaceted but a more focused diagnostic into the complex causes of terrorism in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: An investigation has been undertaken to find out the effect of concentration of different polyfunctional monomers (PFMs) on the physical properties of the acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber (NBR) crosslinked by electron beam (EB). The PFMs used were diethylene glycol dimethacrylate, trimethylol propane trimethacrylate and trimethylol propane triacrylate. The physical properties of EB-irradiated NBR sheets were evaluated by measuring the tensile strength, elongation percent at break, hardness and gel fraction. The results showed a remarkable increase in tensile strength, hardness and gel fraction as the concentration of PFMs was increased from 1 part per hundred (phr) to 5phr in the NBR samples whereas elongation percent decreased in a steady manner. The improvement in physical properties of radiation crosslinked NBR in the presence of PFMs may be attributed to its increased crosslinking density as observed by the corresponding increase in gel content. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Sorption of cobalt(II)–thiocyanate complex onto polyurethane foam (PUF) has been investigated in detail with respect to the equilibrating time between Co(II)-thiocyanate complex in solution and foam, and concentrations of cobalt(II) and sorbent. The sorption was optimized with respect to the composition of electrolyte. Maximum sorption has been achieved from 0.1 M HCl solution containing 0.5 M SCN after 10 minutes of shaking time. The kinetics and thermodynamics of sorption are studied in detail. The kinetics follow a first-order rate equation with the rate constant, k, equal to 9.57 × 10-2 min.-1 The variation of equilibrium constant Kc with temperature (15–50°C) yields values of ΔH = -64 ± 4.6 kJ·mol-1, ΔS = -192.6 ± 15.6 J·mol-1·K-1, and ΔG = -8.71 kJ·mol-1 at 298 K. The sorption of Co(II)-thiocyanate onto PUF in the presence of common anions and cations has also been measured. The sorption data studied in the concentration range of Co(II) 1.12 × 10-4 to 1.20 × 10-3 M follow Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) isotherms. Freundlich parameters 1/n = 0.35 ± 0.02 and A = 0.85 ± 0.2 mmol·g-1, Langmuir constants Q = (5.54 ± 0.12) × 10-5 mol·g-1 and b = (3.55 ± 0.74) × 104 dm3·mol-1 and D–R isotherms β = -0.002999 ± 0.000189 kJ2·mol-2, Cm = 10.66 ± 0.16 × 10-4 mol·g-1 and E = 12.9 ± 0.4 kJ·mol-1 have been evaluated. The possible sorption mechanism of cobalt–thiocyanate complex onto PUF is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury sulfide was prepared and characterized by measuring average pore size and surface area. The sorption of mercury onto mercury sulfide was investigated in detail with respect to sorptive medium, agitation time, sorbent and sorbate concentration, and temperature. The maximum sorption of mercury (>99.8) was achieved from 10-3 M hydrochloric acid solution using 50 mg mercury sulfide for 10 minutes. The sorption data of mercury followed the Langmuir isotherm over the entire concentration of mercury investigated whereas the Freundlich and Dubinin–Radushkevich isotherms were obeyed only up to low and moderate concentrations. Useful parameters like sorption capacity and energy have been evaluated using these isotherms. The variation of the equilibrium constant with temperature has the results ΔH=23.8 ± 3.2 kJ·mol-1, ΔS = 130 ± 10 J·mol-1, and ΔG = -13.5 ± 0.4 kJ·mol-1 at 298 K. Among the ions tested, tartrate, fluoride, and citrate increase the sorption whereas Cu(II), Ba(II), Zn(II), Ni(II), Fe(II), and Cr(III) reduce the sorption significantly. Except for Y(III) (∼91%), all the metal ions showed a lower affinity toward HgS, especially trivalent Ho, Fe, Sc, Tm, Ga, Dy, As, and Pr which showed sorption >1 and >10%. The mercury sulfide column can be used to separate Hg(II) from these trivalent metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the position of hyoid bone in different skeletal malocclusions in both genders from records of patients of orthodontic department, Sandeman Provincial Hospital Quetta. Study Design: cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Orthodontics dental section Sandeman Provincial Hospital Quetta, from Mar 2017 to Aug 2017. Methodology: This study was carried out with the help of patient radiographs from records of Orthodontics department Sandeman Provincial Hospital Quetta. Beginning of study followed Ethical committee approval. The Sample size was 60. For the data collection, Non probability consecutive sampling technique was used. Samples were collected from Baluchistan. Results: Each gender had 30 cases; 10 in each three of the classes. There was a greater horizontal linear measures C3-H, C3-Rgn found in males across all three classes. Conclusion: There was a greater C3-H and H-Rgn found in males in comparison to females in all the class groups. Additionally, C3-H was found to be of the greatest distance in males in class 1 and 3 groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]