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This paper focuses on the mechanical and morphological properties of oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fibre reinforced in polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH). Samples were prepared via solution casting method with different loading of OPEFB fibre range from 5 wt% to 30 wt%. To improve the performance of thin films, tapioca starch (TS) was added into the formulation. From the result obtained, the tensile strength of PVOH/OPEFB thin films decreases as fibre loading increases. This might due to the weak interfacial adhesion between OPEFB fibre and PVOH matrix and also the tendency of fibres agglomeration to form the non-homogeneous compound. However, interestingly to observe that tapioca starch addition has increased the tensile strength and Young’s modulus of the thin films. From scanning electron microscopy analysis, the presence of tapioca starch has enhanced the adhesion of PVOH matrix and OPEFB fibre.

The fabrication of polypropylene (PP)/acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR)/kenaf core (KC) composites were investigated. Tensile and morphological properties of composites were evaluated with the addition of polypropylene maleic anhydride (PPMAH) as a compatibilizer Five compositions of PP/NBR/KC with varied NBR loading (0–60 phr) were prepared with the addition of constant PPMAH ratio at 5phr. All the materials were melts mixed using a heated two-roll mill at temperature 180 °C and speed of 50 rpm. PP/NBR/KC compounds were compressed into 1 mm thin sheet by using a hot press machine and cut into a dumbbell shape specimen. The tensile test was conducted according to ASTM D 638 using a Universal Testing Machine. The results indicated that tensile strength slightly decreased with increasing NBR loading. However, it is interesting to observe that PP/NBR/KC composites with PPMAH compatibilizer have better tensile strength. Almost 43% improvement resulted for PP/NBR/KC/PPMAH composites with ratio 70/30/10. From scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, composites with PPMAH compatibilizer show good attachment of KC filler with PP/NBR matrices.

Aim Here, we evaluated the possible protective effects of oleuropein, the major phenolic constituent in virgin olive oil against glycerol-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) in rats. Main methods Twenty-eight Sprague Dawley rats were allocated equally into four groups as follows: control group, oleuropein group (50 mg/kg body weight), AKI group and the oleuropein + AKI group. AKI was induced by injecting 50% glycerol (10 ml/kg body weight) intramuscularly. Key findings Glycerol injection increased the kidney relative weight as well as rhabdomyolysis (RM)- and AKI-related index levels, including the levels of creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine, urea, and Kim-1 expression. Additionally, alteration in oxidative conditions in renal tissue was recorded, as confirmed by the elevated malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels and the decreased glutathione content. Concomitantly, the protein and mRNA expression levels of antioxidant enzymes were suppressed. Moreover, Nfe2l2 and Hmox1 mRNA expression was also downregulated. Glycerol triggered inflammatory reactions in renal tissue, as evidenced by the increased pro-inflammatory cytokines and Ccl2 protein and mRNA expression, whereas myeloperoxidase activity was increased. Furthermore, glycerol injection enhanced apoptotic events in renal tissue by increasing the expression of the pro-apoptotic proteins and decreasing that of anti-apoptotic. However, oleuropein administration reversed the molecular, biochemical, and histological alterations resulting from glycerol injection. Significance Our data suggest that oleuropein has potential as an alternative therapy to prevent or minimize RM incidence and subsequent development of AKI, possibly due to its potent anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects.

This study is done to find the alternatives to solve the water pollution problem. The common ways to treat polluted water is by using alum. However, the usage of alum as conventional coagulant had caused the formation of sludge that can pollute the water and also cause illness. Tamarind seed was chosen as the alternative because it is naturals, non-toxic, and 100% biodegradable sources. In this study, the research was done in two parts, there are tamarind seed extraction by using different extraction solutions and the jar test. The extraction solution that was used were sodium chloride, potassium chloride and distilled water. In jar test, synthetic turbid water with turbidity range from 200 to 220 NTU was used to determine the effectiveness of tamarind seed as natural coagulant. Form the results obtained, sodium chloride extract achieved the highest percentage or turbidity removal with the percentage 91.32% with the dosage 25mg/L at pH 6, while the distilled water extract obtained the lowest percentage of turbidity removal with the percentage 56.60 % with the dosage 30mg/L at pH 3. As a conclusion, tamarind seed can be used as a natural coagulant in the treatment of polluted water.

A new developed of polymer materials made up of polypropylene (PP), recycled nitrile gloves (NBRr) and empty fruit bunch (EFB) fiber was fabricated. Recycled nitrile glove was blended together with PP plastic to reduce the use of petroleum based and to solve the issue of waste discarded at the landfill. EFB fiber was incorporated to lower the production cost of composite. Due to incompatibility of different phases, stearic acid treatment was used to improve the EFB fiber polarity. Thus, the effect of different EFB loading for untreated and treated stearic acid of PP/NBRr/EFB composite was studied. In this work, all the materials were mixed well using a heated two roll mill with temperature 180 °C within 9 minutes. The EFB loading were varied from 0 to 30 phr. The analysis of tensile properties was tested followed the ASTM D638, Type IV, testing procedure, to analyze tensile strength, Young’s modulus and elongation at break. The structural properties of the fracture sample surfaces were observed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and the chemical properties was analyzed using Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR). Composites with stearic acid treatment have shown higher tensile strength compared to untreated EFB fiber. Besides, the micrograph structure surface from scanning electron microscopy analysis showed better fiber and matrix interaction, as the treated-EFB fiber is well encapsulated with the PP matrix. From the FTIR analysis, the intensity peak of OH for PP/NBRr/EFB/SA was reduced due to the removal O-H bond of cellulose from fibers during the surface modification of fibers.

Hydrological modeling is a commonly used tool to estimate the basin’s hydrological response due to precipitation. This study aims to calibrate and validate the rainfall-runoff transformation model for Bukit Kenau Station in Kuantan River Basin (KRB) using HEC-HMS (Hydrologic Engineering Centre Hydrology Modeling System). For the loss rate, SCS Curve Number method was selected while Clark Unit Hydrograph was used for the transform method. The model calibration and validation efficiency were verified using the Nash-Sutcliffe model efficiency (ME). As a result, the model calibration and validation were found to be satisfactory with ME between 0.5 to 0.8. The model can be used to forecast the river flow and helps in the flood mitigation works to reduce the impacts along with the cost use. Besides, the result obtained from this study can be used as a guideline for future flood risk assessment works in the study area.

Statement of the problem: Clinical performance and survival rates of posterior high strength GICs are questionable. A new generation of conventional glass-ionomer restorative material (Ketac™ universal) without coating has been launched recently for restoring class I and II cavities without investigations.Objectives: This study was conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties of a new generation of conventional glass ionomer (Ketac™ universal) for restoring posterior stress bearing areas.Furthermore, the effectiveness of resin coating on Ketac™ universal GIC was evaluated.Materials and Methods: Three types of conventional glass ionomer restorative materials were selected for this study (Ketac™ Universal; KU, Ketac™ Molar; KM and Fuji IX GpFast; FIXF). Each GICs material specimens were prepared according to manufacturer’ instructions and distributed randomly into two groups (N=30) (uncoated and coated groups) and then conditioned in distilled waterat 370C for 24 hours. The flexural strength,compressive strength, and hardness tests for each material were evaluated using a universal testing machine. Furthermore, additional representative un-coated and coated specimens for each material were prepared for their characterization under scanning electron microscope. Data were analysed by multivariate ANOVA. Bonferroni post hoc test was used for multiple comparisons. Paired t-test was used to detect significant differences between un-coated and coated GICs. Interactions between GICs materials and coating were also performed. P-value is significant if it was less than .05.Results: The highest significant flexural strength, compressive strength and hardness values were noticed with Ketac universal and the lowest was noted with FIXF. Also, only significant improvement in the flexural and compressive strength of FIXF when resin coating was applied.Conclusions: KU represents an encouraging line of higher clinical longevity of GICs’ filling material in stress bearing areas. Also the resin coating has no significant effect on the tested mechanical properties of KU GICs.

Objectives: Anemia is one of the world's leading causes of considerable perinatal morbidity and mortality. This study designed to compare the efficacy and safety of Heme iron polypeptide (Proferrin®-ES) versus iron saccharate complex (Ferrosac) in treatment of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Methods: Two hundred and sixty (260) pregnant women with hemoglobin level below 10 gm/dl due to iron deficiency anemia were included in this study and randomized to receive either; intravenous Iron Saccharate (IV group) or oral Proferrin®-ES (PO group) for correction of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Treatment efficacy checked by comparing pre-treatment values of hemoglobin, serum ferritin, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and reticulocytes count by the 3-months` post-treatment values. Results: The 3-months` post-treatment hemoglobin level increased compared to the pre-treatment level without any significant difference between the two studied groups (from 8.5 ± 3.5 to 11.3 ± 1.3 gm/dl in PO group and from 8.7 ± 2.5 to 11.7 ± 0.9 gm/dl in IV group). In addition; the 3-months` post-treatment ferritin level, increased compared to the pre-treatment level without any significant difference between the two studied groups (from 19.4 ± 4.9 to 118.8 ± 7.1 ug/l in PO group and from 15.3 ± 5.6 to 122.3 ± 6.4 ug/l in IV group). 1.6% (2/124) of the studied women developed gastrointestinal intolerance and upset with oral Proferrin®-ES (insignificant difference and excluded from the study) and no other side effects recorded with oral Proferrin®-ES. Conclusion: HIP (Proferrin®-ES) is an effective, safe, well tolerable oral iron preparation as well as intravenous iron saccharate complex for treatment of iron deficiency during pregnancy; it increases the hemoglobin and replaces the depleted iron store.

Background P. aeruginosa considered as a notoriously difficult organism to be controlled by antibiotics or disinfectants. The potential use of alternative means as an aid to avoid the wide use of antibiotics against bacteria pathogen has been recently arisen remarkably. Objective Effect of extremely low frequency positive electric pulse with different duty cycles on Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC: 27853) growth by constructed and implemented exposure device was investigated in this study. Methods The exposure device was applied to give extremely low frequency in the range of 0.1 up to 20 Hz with the capability to control the duty cycle of each pulse with variation from 10% up to 100%. Growth curves of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were investigated before and after exposure to different frequencies (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9 Hz) through measuring the optical density and cell count. Exposures to selected frequencies in the whole ranges of duty cycles were done. These studies were followed by DNA fragmentation, transmission electron microscope (TEM), antibiotic susceptibility tests, and dielectric measurements. Results Findings revealed inhibition effect by 48.56% and 47.4% together with change in the DNA structural properties for samples exposed to 0.5 Hz and 0.7 Hz respectively. Moreover the data indicated important role of duty cycle on the inhibition mechanism. Conclusion It is concluded that there are two different mechanisms of interaction between positive electric pulse and microorganism occurred; 0.5 Hz caused rupture in cell wall while 0.7 Hz caused denaturation of the inner consistent of the cell.

The effect of maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene (PP-g-MAH) as a compatibilizer on the properties of polypropylene (PP)/recycled acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBRr)/empty fruit bunch (EFB) composites were studied. The composites were melt mixed using a heated two roll mill at 180°C and a speed of 15 rpm with six different compositions (100/0/10, 80/20/10, 70/30/10, 60/40/10, 50/50/10, 40/60/10 phr). The effects of PP-g-MAH on mechanical, morphological and chemical properties of the PP/NBRr/EFB composites were examined. The PP-g-MAH compatibilized composites have higher tensile values compare to uncompatibilized composites. Scanning electron microscopy showed better adhesion between EFB and PP/NBRr matrices in the presence of PP-g-MAH. Better interaction was formed between EFB and PP/NBRr matrices via C-O-C ester bonds as indicated by FTIR analysis. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers

The time-transition curve of open circuit potential (Eoc) during the single zincating process of aluminium alloy 7075 (AA7075) was recorded. Then, a suitable single zincating duration was selected from the Eoc slope, in order to get the optimum zincating duration. The evolution of surface morphology and composition of AA7075 substrate at various single zincating durations were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive analysis of x- rays (EDX). The coating adhesions of single zincated samples produced at various durations were investigated using a scratch tester. SEM results showed that the substrates produced at a longer zincating duration were fully covered by a dense layer of zinc particles. The adhesion of the electrodeposited nickel on single zincated samples produced at longer zincating duration was higher than the conventional single zincating process. This morphology has contributed to the improvement of coating adhesion.

The use of green roof is becoming increasingly worldwide because of its environmental, economic, and aesthetic benefits. The ability to retain storm water and improve the quality of effluent flow are the important characteristics of green roof. It is viewed as a best technology to minimize the negative impact of urbanization. However, the application of green roof in Malaysia is less and literatures regarding these is limited. An attempt has been made to evaluate the performances of green roof in improving the water quantity and quality of stormwater runoff. A lab-scale green roof with five component layers which are vegetation layer using creeping ox-eye and beach morning glory, topsoil substrate layer, non-woven geotextile filter layer, drainage plate layer and liquid waterproofing layer was used. Results indicated that the green roof with creeping ox-eyes shows a better performance in reducing peak flow with as high as 41% percentages of reduction compared to beach morning glory (15%). On the other hand, the green roof with beach morning glory manage to improve the concentration of COD up to 99% improvement while the green roof with creeping ox-eye shows a better performance in improving BOD with 17% reduction.

The quality of nutmeg oil is determined by the quality of the nutmeg and the technology that are used in the purification process of the nutmeg. For instance, the distillation process will affect the yield and the essential quality of the production of the nutmeg oil are involving the boiler material, cooling system, and boiler design. The existing nutmeg oil distillation system is time consuming because the operators are highly depending on the firewood and the operators who must monitor closely throughout the time during the nutmeg oil refining process. The new distillation process and technique is based on the new type of boiler that is made from Stainless steel 304 with a diameter of 70 cm, length 120 cm, and with the thickness of 3 mm. The Boiler also comes with a new control system to precisely control the pressure and temperature. Meanwhile, the excess pressure of the boiler is controlled by pressure safety valve because the boiler is designed to withstand up to 3 bar maximum pressure capacity. The kettle is made of 304 Stainless steel equipped with a multi-storey basket to polish and to enhance the circulation and vapour pressure inside the boiler. The condenser pipes are made from the aluminium pipe to maximise the condensation process of the raw nutmeg oil. For the new distillation process, the hybrid system is utilised, where the sources of firewood and electricity are used as the source of energy to operate the boiler. It can be seen that hybrid kettle design reaches 2.8 tons with a 30% operating-saving cost. On top of that distillation time can be shortened to 48 hours from the previous 72 hours. It is stated that this hybrid boiler system is much more effective when compared to conventional systems. Laboratory test results stated that the distilled nutmeg oil has fulfilled the Indonesian national standard.

Benzocaine(BENZ) has been estimated by indirect spectrophotometric method. The suggested method based on oxidation of BENZ via N-bromosuccinamide (NBSA) in presence of hydrochloric acid, then the unreacted or the excess NBSA was immerse in bleaching the colour of rifampicin dye(REFPD),the absorbance of unreacted REFPD has been estimated at wavelength 476 nm (the highest absorption of REFPD) .The measured absorbance is directly proportional to the amount of BENZ in the solution. All parameters affected the oxidation of BENZ and bleaching the colour of REFPD and the optimum values have been fixed. Beer’s law(linearity) of the method is in the range of 2 to 15 μ.g.ml−1, the molar absorptivity value equal to 4.295 x 10 3 l.mol−1.cm−1 and the Sandall’s index for sensitivity is calculated and equal to 0.0384 μg.cm−2. The suggested method has an application part included estimation of BENZ in its pharmaceutical formulation (sterile ear drops).

A simple spectrophotometric method has been suggested for the assay of sulphacetamide sodium(SAAMS) through diazotization and coupling. The method include the reaction of SAAMS with sodium nitrite in acidic medium of hydrochloric acid to produce the corresponding diazonium salt-SAAMS(D-SAAMS), which is coupled with 2,4- dihydroxybenzophenone(2,4-DHBP) in presence of sodium hydroxide to produce orange azo dye, water-soluble and stable which shows maximum absorbance at 497.5 nm. . The absorbance was found to increase linearly with the increasing amounts of SAAMS in the solution from 10 to 250 μg in 10 ml (1-25 μg.ml1) . Two important factors were calculated to show the sensitivity of the method: molar absorptivity and Sandell s sensitivity index, have the values 2.27 × 104l.mol−1.cm−1and of 0.011198 μg.cm−2respectively. Both values demonstrated good sensitivity to the proposed method . SAAMS has been estimated successfully in eyes drops.

Flexible work arrangement (FWA) is a logical work design in an emerging digital economy such as Malaysia. While employee demand for greater work flexibility has been steadily increasing, the extent of actual FWA implementation in Malaysia is not equally encouraging. Hence, this exploratory study aims to investigate the barriers that are hindering the implementation of FWA in Malaysian knowledge-based industries. Self-administered questionnaire was distributed to a total of 170 managers from MSC Malaysia Status (formerly known as Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) Status) companies. The study finds insufficient evidence to explain the low level of FWA implementation in MSC Malaysia Status knowledge-based companies. To address the knowledge gap, future research can focus on a more comprehensive assessment of the implications of FWA on both employers and employees.

EXTENDED-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae strains can present resistance to many antibiotic groups due to resistant genes. This study conducted to detect and identify multi-drug resistant (MDR), ESBL producing K. pneumoniae strains from different clinical samples with detection and sequencing of both Temoneira (TEM) and sulfhydryl variable (SHV) genes and using Glycyrrhizic acid nanoparticle as an antimicrobial agent for ESBL producing K. pneumoniae strains. One hundred and fifty clinical specimens were processed. ESBL producing K. pneumoniae strains were detected by double disk synergy test. TEM and SHV genes responsible for MDR in K. pneumoniae were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequence alignment was done using DNA sequencing. The effect of different concentrations of Nano Glycyrrhizic acid was determined. K. pneumoniae was detected in 53.3% of the total collected samples (80/150). Seventy one percent (57/80) of them were found to be multi-drug resistant strains and 63% (36/57) also found to contain the ESBL enzymes. Males were highly infected than females. TEM gene was detected in 52.8% of the ESBL isolates while SHV gene was detected in 72.2%. Twenty Five percent of the ESBL producing K. pneumoniae was found to contain both TEM and SHV genes. Nucleic acid sequence alignment of both genes showed some mutations. Chloramphenicol was found to be the drug of choice to overcome ESBL producing K. pneumoniae with inhibition of 97.2%. The antibacterial activity of Nano Glycyrrhizic acid revealed that 10μg/ml was found to be the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against ESBL producing K. pneumoniae isolates.

Nowadays, XLPE cable has been widely used because it has better resistance than other cables. XLPE insulation has unique features including a high dielectric strength and high insulation resistance. A lot of researches based on hardware and software have been conducted to prove the effectiveness of XLPE cable such as AC and DC applications and Space Charge Distribution measurement under HVDC at High Temperature. This research focused on analysis of space charge and electric field on XLPE cable with effect of nonuniform contamination layer by using Quickfield Software. Non-uniform contaminations have been applied along XLPE cable using Arsenic Tribromide (AsBr3), Boron Bromide (BBr3), Ethylene Dichloride (CH2C1), Formic Acid (CH1O2), Formamide (CH3NO) and Alcohol element. Presence of these contamination elements represent of underground contamination. The size and layer of the contamination were non-uniform type. From the results, it is shown that lower dielectric constant of contamination will affect more on charge of XLPE insulation. As a conclusion, it can be seen lower dielectric constant value of contamination element greatly affecting the performance of XLPE insulation. Furthermore, size of contamination also influences the content of charge in contamination where the bigger the contamination size, the more charge contained in the contamination.

Oils acts as insulation and cooling agent in the transformer. Petroleum-based oils are widely used in transformers due to their qualified properties as good insulation materials. Unfortunately, the used of petroleum-based oils has adverse effects on environment in the event of any failure to transformers such as tank leakage or explosions. Therefore, researchers have been studied and have found environmentally friendly oil that is suitable as substitutes in transformer. Thus, breakdown voltage tests using direct current and alternating current with the addition of different water content were performed to identify the potential of palm oil and coconut oil in the transformer isolation system. Refined, Bleached and Deodorized oil (RBDPO) and coconut oil samples were selected to be test in this study. The oil samples were test by varies the gap distance of test cell electrode and the level of water content. As a conclusion, RBDPO oil has greater breakdown voltage test under DC breakdown voltage test in term of increment of the gap distance.

In the image analysis process, thresholding is one of the most important preprocessing steps. Thresholding is a sort of picture division that separates protest apportioning a picture into a closer view and foundation. This project will describe a few selected thresholding methods such as Fuzzy C-Mean Algorithm's method, Wolf's method, Bradley's method, Bernsen's method, Triangle's Method and Deghost's Method. Each method will experiment with the malaria image. The objective of thresholding method is to simplify an image into something that is easier to examine. By using MATLAB R2017b as its core programming software, the image will be separated by unused background with uncertainty. The thresholding method will undergo image quality analysis such as Sensitivity and Specificity. Based on numerical anaylsis the Fuzzy C-Mean Algorithm method is more effective and good performance compared to the other methods.

This paper reports a temperature-tunable conjugated polymer poly[3-(2-ethyl-isocyanato-octadecanyl)-thiophene] (TCP) laser working in superradiant (SR)—or amplified spontaneous emission (ASE)—mode. The absorption spectra indicated the aggregate (mostly dimer) formation upon increasing concentration and/or decreasing temperature. Amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) was observed at suitable concentration, temperature, and pump energy values. The efficiency of the ASE from the TCP polymer was improved by energy transfer from an oligomer [1,4-bis(9-ethyl-3-carbazo-vinylene)-9,9-dihexyl-fluorene]. Moreover, the ASE wavelength can be tuned between 550 and 610 nm by changing the temperature of the solution from 60 to 10 °C. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a high-power, temperature-tunable, and conjugated polymer laser.

Background: The prevalence of urinary tract infection increases in young sexually active women, and women with previous UTI. Routine urethral catheterization performed for bladder evacuation before minor gynecological procedures and it is not clear whether this routine urethral catheterization associated with increased incidence of bacteriuria or UTIs or not. This study designed to detect the effect of routine uretheral catheterization for women undergoing minor gynecological surgeries on urinary symptoms and urinary infections. Methods: Two hundred and forty women infertile women scheduled for uterine assessment by diagnostic hysteroscopy before in-vitro fertilization in assisted reproduction unit of Ahmadi Hospital, Kuwait Oil Company were included in this study. Participants were randomized into; group I (catheterized group) and group II (non-catheterized group). Participants’ urine samples compared pre-operatively and post-operatively and they asked to complete about their pre and post-operative urinary symptoms. Results: Post-operative dysuria, frequency and urgency were significantly higher in catheterized group (22 (18.33%), 26 (21.66%) and 18 (15%); respectively) compared to non- catheterized group [5 (4.16%), 7 (5.83%) and 4 (3.33%); respectively]. Relative risk of dysuria, frequency and urgency after catheterization were 4.4, 3.7 and 4.5; respectively (95% CI; 1.7-11.2, 1.67-8.22 and 1.56-12.9; respectively). Asymptomatic bacteriuria, UTIs and subsequent need for antimicrobial therapy were also significantly high in catheterized group [15 (12.5%), 18 (15%) and 18 (15%); respectively) compared to non-catheterized group (3 (2.5%), 2 (1.96%) and 2 (1.96%); respectively]. Relative risk of asymptomatic bacteriuria and UTIs after catheterization in women undergoing minor gynecological procedures were 5 and 9; respectively (95%CI; 1.48-16.8 and 2.1-37.9). Conclusions: Catheterization in women undergoing minor gynecological surgery was associated with increased risk of dysuria, frequency, urgency, ASB, UTIs and subsequent antimicrobial therapy. Surgeons should revise the practice of routine preoperative catheterization for women undergoing minor gynecological procedures.

Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastics are in demand for high performance composites, particularly for the aircraft industry. Waste disposal of carbon fiber in the form of off-cuts, out of life of prepreg and end-of-life components lead to the environmental pollution. This study focuses on the processing and characterization of carbon fiber prepreg comminutes reinforced polypropylene (PP) produced by melt compounding using an internal mixer. In this study, end-of-life carbon fiber prepreg were crushed into fine fibers and dried in oven at 220°C for one hour. It was divided into two types; (1) partially cured carbon fiber prepreg (c-CFP) and, (2) fully cured carbon fiber prepreg (c-CF). The composites were prepared by melt compounding in a Haake internal mixer at 180°C, 50 rpm for 10 minutes. Samples were tested for tensile properties (ASTM D638) and the morphology of fractured surface was observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Increasing carbon fiber in polypropylene was found to increase the Young’s modulus of the composites, but decreased the tensile strength. However, the tensile strength of composites with c-CFP were observed to surpass the neat PP at every loading level. Whereas for composites with c-CF the tensile strength was comparable to the neat PP only within the range of 3 – 5 wt.%.

The aim of our study was to determine the endocan-1 expression in placenta of hypertensive women, and its association with maternal and fetal outcomes.This was a cross-sectional study consisted of 21 pregnant women with hypertension and 23 without hypertension. The gestational age ranged from 28 to 39 weeks (hypertensive) and 32 to 40 weeks (normotensive). The paraffin embedded formalin fixed placenta tissue blocks were retrieved from the pathology archives. Endocan immunohistochemistry was performed on tissue sections of full thickness and maternal surface of the placenta. The endocan expression was determined in fetal endothelial cells, maternal endothelial cells, cytotrophoblasts, syncytiotrophoblasts and decidual cells. The differences in endocan expression in placenta between hypertensive and normotensive subjects were evaluated by Pearson chi-square test and t-test were used in the statistical analysis.The endocan expression was significantly higher in fetal endothelial cells (P 0.001), maternal endothelial cells (P = 0.003) and decidual cells (P 0.001) in the placenta of women with hypertension. When comparing positive and negative endocan expression in maternal outcomes, endocan was associated with the development of pre-eclampsia (P = 0.03). Also, a positive endocan expression was associated with low birthweight (P = 0.001) and prematurity (P = 0.005) in the fetal outcomes.This study showed endocan is highly expressed in fetal endothelial cells, maternal endothelial cells and decidual cells in placenta of hypertensive women. In addition, its expression was associated with poorer maternal and fetal outcomes. These findings suggest endocan may play an important role in the progression of hypertension in pregnancy.

Trachomatous trichiasis is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness worldwide. A relatively simple surgery can spare vision. Although this surgery is usually performed free of charge in endemic regions, multiple studies indicate that surgical refusal is common. Prior studies have attempted to examine these reasons, although they generally rely on patient recall months to years after the surgery was offered. This study set out to determine major decision-making factors at the time of refusal. In addition, this study looked for ways to help increase surgical uptake by targeting modifiable factors.We used a combination of focus groups, interviews with community health workers, and individual interviews with trichiasis patients who refused surgery to understand their decision-making. We found that several factors influenced surgical refusals, including misconception regarding recovery time, inability to find a post-surgical caregiver, and the time of year of the surgical campaign. Fear of the surgery itself played a minimal role in refusals.Trichiasis patients refuse surgery for many reasons, but a large percentage is due to lack of information and education, and is, therefore, modifiable within the structure of a surgical outreach project. To address this, we developed a "frequently asked questions" (FAQ) document aimed at community health workers, which may have helped to decrease some of the misconceptions that had led to prior refusals.

Purpose There is a lack of data concerning the performance of the outcome prediction scores in patients with status epilepticus (SE) in developing countries. The aim of this study was to compare the predictive performances of the status epilepticus severity score (STESS) and the epidemiology-based mortality score in status epilepticus (EMSE) and adaptation of such scoring system to be compatible with the nature of society. Method This is a prospective study, conducted in Egypt from the period of January 2017 to June 2018. The main outcome measure was survival versus death, on hospital discharge. The cutoff point with the best sensitivity and specificity to predict mortality was determined through a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results Among the 144 patients with SE with a mean age of 39.3 ± 19.5 years recruited into the study, 38 patients (26.3%) died in the hospital with the survival of 99 patients while 7 patients (4.9%) were referred to other centers with an unknown outcome. Although EMSE had a bit larger area under the curve (AUC) (0.846) than STESS-3 (AUC 0.824), STESS-3 had the best performance as in-hospital death prediction score as it has a higher negative predictive value (94.6%) than that of EMSE (90.9%) in order not to miss high-risk patients. Conclusion In the Egyptian population, STESS and EMSE are useful tools in predicting mortality outcome of SE. The STESS performed significantly better than EMSEE combinations as a mortality prediction score.

Clinacanthus nutans Lindau (C.nutans) is a popular medicinal herb plant in Asia regions such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and China for its high polyphenols content. Various conventional extraction techniques have been use to extract bioactive compounds in C.nutans, however, the methods have limitations such as usage of organic solvent, time- consuming and low extraction yield. In this study, polyphenols content from C.nutans leaves extracted by solvent-free microwave extraction (SFME) with addition of water, to enhance absorption of energy from microwaves. Energy density or irradiation power per unit of sample volume is used instead of applied microwave power to determine actual energy absorbed by the microwave extraction. It is determined from energy absorbed by microwave power of 200, 300 and 400 W. The effect of process parameter on the polyphenol contents: energy density of 0.073, 0.078 and 0.108 W/ml in 5, 10 and 15 min with 6 ml/g of solvent-to-feed (S/F) ratio was studied. The highest total phenol content (TPC) was obtained at 0.073 W/ml, 6 ml/g of S/F ratio and 5 min of extraction time with TPC of 24.08 ± 0.51 mg GAE/g DW at temperature of 79 °C Results demonstrated that the TPC of C.nutans was higher when extracted under vacuum pressure compared to TPC at ambient pressure. The results suggest that SFME method using water under vacuum state appears as the most efficient and green technique for the extraction of polyphenols from C.nutans extract in shorter time with no use any of organic solvent to produce reasonably high TPC.

Purpose: While quality of life surveys have been conducted in trachomatous trichiasis (TT) surgery populations, little is known about patients’ perceptions of the surgical experience and outcomes. Methods: We interviewed a subset of Partnership for the Rapid Elimination of Trachoma (PRET) surgery trial participants 24 months after surgery. Questions focused on current ocular symptoms, perceived daily functioning, physical appearance, and overall perception of surgery. We stratified participants based on surgical outcomes: normal upper eyelid, postoperative TT, or eyelid contour abnormality (ECA) in one or both eyelids. We compared responses between sexes and surgical outcome groups using contingency tables and Fisher’s exact tests. Results: A total of 483 individuals participated and 86% were very satisfied with surgery results; 96% reported ocular symptom improvement. Participants with moderate to severe ECA or postoperative TT were more likely to report current ocular problems than those with normal eyelids (46% and 58% vs 34%, respectively; p = 0.01 for each comparison). The most common symptom among participants with moderate to severe postoperative TT was feeling lashes touching (blurred vision was the most common among participants with moderate to severe ECA). Overall, 83% stated surgery improved daily life; participants with ECA were less likely to report improvement than others (p = 0.002). Participants who had moderate or severe postoperative TT were least likely to state that they would undergo repeat surgery (80%), followed by participants with ECA (86%). Conclusions: Postoperative TT and ECA both reduced satisfaction with surgery, but appeared to influence different aspects of life. Improving surgical outcomes both by reducing recurrence rates and limiting ECAs are essential.

Original: 02 Oct. 2014 Revised: 14 Nov.. 2014 Accepted: 10 Dec. 2014 Published online: 20 March 2015 A simple and sensitive indirect spectrophotometric determination of folic acid in pure form and in its pharmaceutical formulations. The method was based on the oxidation of folic acid by iron (III) in acidic medium, then reaction of liberated iron (II) with 2, 2' water-soluble, stable, and has a maximum absorption at 520 nm against the reagent blank with a molar absorptivity of 2.8338 x 10 the concentration range of 0.5 parameters (free energy change ( were estimated from the values of stability constants (K) at different temperatures .It was found that colored product formation was spont accompanied by an increase of random. The proposed method has been applied successfully to determine folic acid in different pharmaceutical preparations. Abstract A simple and sensitive indirect spectrophotometric method was developed for the determination of folic acid in pure form and in its pharmaceutical formulations. The method was based on the oxidation of folic acid by iron (III) in acidic medium, then reaction of liberated iron (II) with 2, 2' -bipyridyl to produce a red complex which is soluble, stable, and has a maximum absorption at 520 nm against the reagent blank with a molar absorptivity of 2.8338 x 10 5 L.mol -1 .cm -1 . Beer's law is valid over the concentration range of 0.5 -18.0 µg/ml folic acid. T he values of some thermodynamic parameters (free energy change ( ∆G), enthalpy change ( ∆H), and entropy change ( were estimated from the values of stability constants (K) at different temperatures .It was found that colored product formation was spont aneous, exothermic and accompanied by an increase of random. The proposed method has been applied successfully to determine folic acid in different pharmaceutical preparations. glutamic acid, chemically known as N -(4-(((2-amino - method was developed for the determination of folic acid in pure form and in its pharmaceutical formulations. The method was based on the oxidation of folic acid by iron (III) in acidic medium, then produce a red complex which is soluble, stable, and has a maximum absorption at 520 nm against the reagent . Beer's law is valid over he values of some thermodynamic ∆H), and entropy change ( ∆S)) were estimated from the values of stability constants (K) at different temperatures .It aneous, exothermic and accompanied by an increase of random. The proposed method has been applied successfully to determine folic acid in different pharmaceutical preparations.

Mercury (Hg) is the third most dangerous heavy metal after arsenic and lead. Mercury's toxicity brings serious risks to health through negative pathological and biochemical effects. The study was designed to investigate the possible protective role of berberine (BN) in mercuric chloride (HgCl2) induced oxidative stress in hepatic and renal tissues. Adult male albino Wistar rats were exposed to mercuric chloride (HgCl2; 0.4 mg/kg bwt) for 7 days. Treatment with HgCl2 induced oxidative stress by increasing lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide production along with a concomitant decrease in glutathione and various antioxidant enzymes, namely superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase. HgCl2 intoxication increased the activities of liver enzymes and the bilirubin level, in addition to the levels of urea and creatinine in serum. BN (100mg/kg bwt) treatment inhibited lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide production, whereas it increased glutathione content. Activities of antioxidants enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase, were also restored concomitantly when compared to control after BN administration. BN also inhibited the apoptotic effect of HgCl2 by increasing the expression of Bcl-2 protein in liver and kidney. Histopathological examination of the liver and kidney tissues proved the protective effect of BN against HgCl2 toxicity. These results demonstrated that BN augments antioxidant defense against HgCl2-induced toxicity and provides evidence that it has therapeutic potential as hepato- and reno-protective agent.

This paper presents a comprehensive numerical study of the crashworthy design of a rain forest vehicle (RFV) subjected to impact loading. A commercial finite element (FE) nonlinear code, LSDYNA, was employed to further evaluate the energy absorption performance of the structure under two crash scenarios; impacting a rigid wall and a rigid pole. The simulation results were used to identify the energy absorption capacity of the main subcomponent, thus facilitating crashworthiness requirements for future design improvements. The aims of this investigation were to enhance understanding of RFV behavior under impact loading and improve energy absorption capacity and safety, which will contribute towards the development of an early design stage of the RFV, and design and evaluation that may lessen the need for destructive full-scale testing. Recommendations and suggestions for improving the energy absorption capacity of RFVs have been made. A considerable improvement in energy absorption capacity has been obtained by inclusion of a supplementary device attached to the main chassis. These simplified provisions provide design guidelines that will considerably improve an operator's chances of survival during an accidental impact in the forest.

Emotional Intelligence (EI) is part of those who regulate their emotions according to a logically consistent of emotional functioning. This cross-sectional study is carried out among year 1 to 3 students of Biomedical Science Programme in Kuala Lumpur The questionnaire is based on three criteria which are intrapersonal ability, stress management and general mood. The sample size is 135 students by using stratified random sampling. The general objective of this study is to determine the emotional intelligence level of Biomedical Science students among socio demographic factor. The results showed the mean of EI male students (111.84±12.92 S.D.) is lower than that in female students (112.02±10.23 S.D.), the mean of EI among student staying in campus (112.55±10.947 S.D.) are higher than cam us student staying off-campus (110.76±10.274 S.D.) and the mean of EI among first year (114.35±13.32 S.D.) is the highest compared to that in Year 2 (113.16±9.592 S.D.) and Year 3 (109.93±10.169 S.D.). However there was no significance mean difference of EI between gender, year of study and residences (p>0.05). In conclusion, Emotional Intelligence (EI) is at average level (79.7%) and it was not depending on gender year of study and residences.

Cadmium (Cd) stimulates the production of reactive oxygen species and causes tissue damage. We investigated here the protective effect of Physalis peruviana L. (family Solanaceae) against cadmium-induced testes toxicity in rats. Twenty-eight Wistar albino rats were used. They were divided into four groups (n=7). Group 1 was used as control. Group 2 was intraperitoneally injected with 6.5 mg/kg body weight (bwt) of cadmium chloride for 5 days. Group 3 was orally treated with 200 mg/kg bwt of methanolic extract of physalis (MEPh). Group 4 was pretreated with MEPh before cadmium for 5 days. Changes in body and testes weights were determined. Oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes, and testosterone level were measured. Histopathological changes of testes were examined, and the immunohistochemical staining for the proapoptotic (caspase-3) protein was performed. The injection of cadmium caused a significant decrease in body weight, while a significant increase in testes weight and testes weight index was observed. Pretreatment with MEPh was associated with significant reduction in the toxic effects of Cd as shown by reduced testicular levels of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and caspase-3 expression and increased glutathione content, and the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and testosterone were also increased. Testicular histopathology showed that Cd produced an extensive germ cell apoptosis, and the pretreatment of MEPh in Cd-treated rats significantly reduced Cd-induced testicular damage. On the basis of the above results, it can be hypothesized that P. peruviana L. has a protective effect against cadmium-induced testicular oxidative stress and apoptosis in the rat.

This research evaluates the equilibrium isotherm models for the adsorption of Methylene Blue (MB) from wastewater by using sawdust red wood and beech wood. The sawdust acts as the low-cost adsorbent by using agriculture by product in order to treat the wastewaters. The objectives for this study are two folds. Firstly, to choose the significant factors (parameters) for the adsorption process. The factors applied in this study are mass of the adsorbent, concentration of the MB solution, pH of the MB solution and contact time between adsorbent and adsorbate. Secondly to determine the best isotherm model on the adsorption process of MB by sawdust. The isotherm models used in this research are Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin-Radushkevich and Temkin. Results show that concentration of MB solution is the one and only significant factor for the adsorption process to occur using red wood. Mass of adsorbate, concentration of MB solution and pH of MB solution are the significant factors for the adsorption process to occur using beech wood. The result for the second objective shows that Freundlich is the best model that describe the adsorption process of beech wood as for MB by red wood, Temkin is the best model.

Overvoltage happens in a condition where the voltage is increased and exceed its design limit. This situation may lead to harmful damage to machines or related equipment that connected to the system. Overvoltage can exist in a form of transient, voltage spike or permanent, depending on its duration. Types of overvoltage consist of lightning overvoltage and switching overvoltage. Overvoltage that caused by lightning is considerate as natural phenomena, while switching overvoltage exists from the system itself, either by the interruption of faults or inappropriate connection of circuit breaker contacts. This paper is discussed about overvoltage phenomenon including causes and effects of overvoltage and overvoltage protection towards power system.

يعد عقد استثمار الطاقة الكهربائية من العقود المهمة في الوقت الحاضر، وذلك لكونه من العقود ذات الصلة بالتنمية الاقتصادية من جانب ومن جانب اخر لها علاقة بالمرافق الخدمية التي لا يمكن الاستغناء عنها، وعليه تسعى الدول النامية التي تعجز عن توفير الطاقة الكهربائية الى القطاع الخاص من خلال ابرام عقود مع المستثمرين الاجانب المختصين في هذا المجال، مع توفير بيئة استثمارية ملائمة لهم، وعادة يفضل المستثمر الاجنبي الى التعاقد مع الدولة بأسلوب عقد B.O.O. (البناء، التشغيل، والتمليك) لان مثل هذا الاسلوب لاتنتقل ملكية المشروع الى الدولة بعد انتهاء من مدة العقد، ونظراً لكون الدولة طرفأ في العقد والطرف الاخر شخص اجنبي فقد اختلف الفقه حول تحديد الطبيعة القانونية لمثل هذا العقد فمنهم من يرى بان مثل هذه العقود هي عقود ادارية ويخضع احكامه الى القانون العام، بينما هناك اتجاه حديث يستبعد مثل هذه العقود للقانون العام ويعطيه الطبيعة الخاصة، كما ان لهذه العقود لها خصوصياتها من حيث الالتزامات المترتبة عليها والالية المختارة لتسوية المنازعات الناشئة عنه. وعليه قامت حكومة اقليم كوردستان بالتعاقد وفق ذلك الاسلوب مع احدى الشركات الاجنبية لتقوم هذا الاخير بتجهيز الطاقة الكهربائية لوزارة الكهرباء ليتسنى هذا الاخير بتجهيزها الى المواطنيين.

Undoped and Al-doped ZnO thin films have been prepared by the sol gel method. Zinc acetate dihydrate, ethanol and monoethanolamine were used as precursor, solvent and stabilizer, respectively. In the case of molarity study for Al-doped ZnO, aluminum nitrate nonahydrate was added to the precursor solution from 0 at. % to 6 at. % at molarity of 0.1 M, 0.2 M and 0.3 M. The optical properties were characterized using UV-Vis where the band gap of undoped ZnO increases as the annealing temperature increase and the band gap decrease as the molarity increment. Meanwhile the band gap increase upon increment of Al dopant under molarity of 0.1 M and 0.2 M due to Burstein-moss effects. Meanwhile at 0.3 M, the bandgap increase until 4 at. % of Al and suddenly decrease abruptly at 6 at. % of Al. The effect of molarity and dopant percentage on the thin film gives a different value of energy band gap.