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2-benzothiazolyl acrylamide (BTA) monomer was synthesized by reacting of 2-aminobenzothiazole with acryloyl chloride. Homo- and copolymerization of this monomer with α-methylstyrene (MSt) and methyl acrylate (MA) was carried out in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) solution. The prepared homo-and copolymers were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and their thermal stability was studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The composition of copolymers and the reactivity coefficients (r1, r2) were determined on the basis of sulfur analysis using linearization methods proposed by Fineman-Ross and Kelen-Tudos and the Mayo-Lewis intersection method. The derived (r1, r2) for BTA-co-MSt and BTA-co-MA are: (0.197, 0.230) and (0.294, 4.314), respectively. The microstructure of the copolymers and the distribution of the monomer sequences in the copolymers were calculated statistically, the results obtained are consistent with the values (r1, r2). BTA with MSt form alternative copolymer whilst BTA-co-MA tends to be block with MA.

The use of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) in pediatric dentistry has lately been gaining recognition and acceptance among dentists and parents. SDF has shown effectiveness in arresting dental caries in primary teeth in children. This review article states a brief history of the use of SDF in dentistry, advantages, disadvantages, indications, contra indications and clinical application of SDF.

This work aims to investigate the dependence of gravitational lensing properties on the lens redshift and source redshift. The angular diameter distance hereafter referred to as ADD has been determined using two different numerical integral methods, Simpson's rule, and definite integral methods. Both of those two methods gave identical results. In addition, observational data of gravitational Lensing systems have been used to find the most probable value of lens redshift and source redshift. The result showed that the lens redshift and source redshift are more likely to occur in the ranges of zL=0.2-0.6 and zS=1-3, respectively. Einstein radius and the critical surface mass density have been studied for those ranges of lens and source redshift. The result clearly showed that the redshifts and distances affect the lensing properties. This indicates that observations of gravitational lensing can be efficiently used to probe the distances and redshifts.

Racial and ethnic minority youth with disabilities often encounter more challenges and poorer health, social and vocational outcomes compared to white youth and yet, relatively little is known about their lived experiences. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of ethnic minority youth and young adults with disabilities.We conducted a systematic review of qualitative data with eight international databases assessed by four reviewers.Twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria, which involved 373 youth and young adults, across four countries over a 20-year period. We identified the following themes: (1) accessing and navigating services (i.e., environmental barriers; lack of supports, resources and information); (2) perceptions of disability (i.e., cultural adjustment and tensions between cultures; differing priorities for independence); (3) systemic factors (i.e., language and communication; stigma, discrimination and racism); (4) coping (i.e., reframing; and family involvement and support); and (5) intersectionality (i.e., disability, race and ethnicity, gender, and socio-economic status).Our findings highlight how racial and ethnic minority youth with disabilities encounter many challenges in dealing with their condition and the urgent need for further research to develop a deeper understanding of their needs so that clinicians and service providers can enhance supports.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONRacial and ethnic minority youth with disabilities encounter different challenges than other youth, such as cultural adjustment, racism and culturally inappropriate services.Clinicians and service providers should be cognizant that ethnic minority youth may need different supports and resources as they grapple with tensions between cultures.Clinicians, educators and service providers should consider the complexity of how disability interacts with many other factors, such as race, ethnicity, gender and socio-economic status.

Deforestation and forest degradation is a global concern, especially in developing countries. The Margalla Hills of Pakistan—Himalayan foothills—also face the threat of deforestation and forest degradation. These Margalla Hills, considering the need for forest protection activities in Pakistan, were declared a reserved national forest and named “the Margalla Hills National Park (MHNP)”. This study quantitively evaluates whether deforestation and forest degradation have occurred at MHNP and identifies their possible drivers. Satellite (Landsat) data 1988–2020 was employed for the land use change analysis, whereas a socio-economic survey of the local population and structured interviews with government officials were conducted to identify the drivers of deforestation. Supervised classification was performed for imagery classification and the Vegetation Condition Index (VCI) was also calculated to measure degradation. Supervised classification showed that the forest cover increased from 65% of the total area in 1988 to 69% in 2020. The VCI results show that the moderate level of degradation has increased from 3.5% of MHNP area in 1988 to 8.8% in 2020. The cumulative measure of degradation from 1988 to 2020 is 1.09% of the total forest (using p < 0.05). Major drivers identified are fuel wood and timber collection. The results reveal a decline in both deforestation and forest degradation. There is a need for further quantitative analysis of the drivers, strict implementation of legislative and control measures, and continuous invigilation of the deforestation trends in MHNP.

BACKGROUND: An inclusive workplace culture supports and values the individual and collective work processes of workers from diverse backgrounds. The reality or perception of inclusion or exclusion at work can influence the social functioning, health, and well-being of workers. However, we lack knowledge about the concepts relevant to inclusion at the workplace. Furthermore, research is needed to better understand the drivers and obstacles to workplace inclusion to better promote participation in working life. OBJECTIVE: This scoping review of the qualitative literature identifies the barriers to and facilitators of workplace inclusion. METHODS: Systematic searches of five databases were conducted from 2000 to January 2020. Pairs of reviewers independently screened and reviewed all citations and full-text articles. We used Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review framework which advances through five stages. Barriers and facilitators of workplace inclusion were categorized relative to a multi-layered conceptualization of workplace inclusion and grouped by theme. Studies were described and thematic results totaled and communicated with evidence tables and conceptual maps. RESULTS: Thirty-nine qualitative studies met our inclusion criteria. All five domains of the multi-layered framework were represented by the reported shared experiences of study participants. Organizational level factors, especially attitudinal barriers were the most reported barriers to workplace inclusion. Facilitators of workplace inclusion focused on employer level factors and most often cited the role of inclusive leadership and support. CONCLUSION: Workplace inclusion requires consideration of societal, organizational, employer, and interpersonal level factors in addition to individual worker characteristics.

Purpose Youth with disabilities often encounter barriers in finding meaningful employment and completing post-secondary education. Such challenges are often even more profound for youth who identify as an ethnic minority. The purpose of this study was to understand the relationships between race, ethnicity and school and work outcomes for youth with disabilities. Methods We conducted a scoping review while searching eight international databases that identified 49 studies meeting our inclusion criteria. Results Of the 49 studies that were included in the review, they involved youth and young adults with disabilities (aged 6-29) over a 21-year period. The majority of the studies focusing on school showed that ethnic minority youth with disabilities had poorer school outcomes compared to white youth with disabilities. Meanwhile, most studies focusing on work reported that ethnic minority youth with a disability had worse employment outcomes compared to white disabled youth. Factors influencing school and work included cultural differences in expectations, inequitable access to services and resources, and discrimination. Conclusions Our findings highlight the disparities that exist for young people with disabilities from ethnic minority backgrounds. There is an urgent need for further research to understand their lived experiences to help address gaps in school and work outcomes.Implications for rehabilitationClinicians and educators should help to provide ethnic minority youth with equitable resources and opportunities to help them achieve their school and career goals.Clinicians and educators should consider participating in culturally sensitive care training to better understand the different needs and experiences of ethnic minority youth with disabilities.Clinicians and educators should try to work collectively with parents and ethnic minority youth with disabilities to optimize their transition outcomes.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality globally. Wald and Law proposed the idea of a "polypill"; a fixed dose combination therapy (FDC) in the form of a single pill to curb the CVD epidemic. Such a drug would include the combination of a broad spectrum of drugs including cholesterol lowering drugs, antihypertensive drugs, antiplatelet drugs, anticoagulation drugs, and antiarrhythmic drugs, which are frequently integrated to combat specific CVDs. This "polypill" holds the potential to pose several advantages like increased compliance, improved quality of life, risk factor control, psychological relief, and cost effectiveness along with minimal side effects. Several trials (like TIPS, UMPIRE, PolyIran, etc.) have tested different treatment strategies to test the hypothesis of Wald and Law. Unlike the past, physicians are now highly aware of this new strategy. The future of polypill in the management of CVD lies in a strategy where polypills are treated supplementary to the already existing preventive care, which includes lifestyle modifications and efforts to reduce tobacco use.

Background: Self-medication is a personal self-initiated behaviour of diagnosis of a disease and self-treatment of its symptoms and signs. Objective: To identify the prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics and the diseases commonly treated with antibiotics, the most commonly used antibiotics, the sources of obtaining it and the predictors of self-medication with antibiotics. Study Design: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Khartoum Locality, Khartoum State, Sudan during April 2018. Methods: 246 adults (130 males, 116 females) over 18 years were included in the study. A closed-ended, pretested and pre-validated questionnaire was used to interview the participants. Data was analysed using SPSS Version 23.0. Descriptive statistics were presented in tables and figures. Logistic regression was conducted to identify the predictors of self-medication with antibiotics. Ethical approval and voluntarily signed consent were obtained prior to embarking on the study. Results: 148(60.2%) participants practiced self-medication with antibiotics, 111(75%) of whom obtained the antibiotics over the counter in community pharmacies. The most commonly used antibiotic was amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (38.5%). The major reason behind taking antibiotics without prescription was long distances to healthcare facilities (43.2%). The commonest symptom which encouraged self-medication with antibiotics was abdominal pain (27%). Females were 3.55 times more likely to use self-medication with antibiotics than males. Participants who lacked health insurance cards were 2.65 times more likely to practice self-medication with antibiotics. Conclusion: The prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics is alarmingly high in Khartoum Locality. Over the counter purchase of antibiotics was the main route of self-medication. Gender and lack of health insurance were significant predictors of self-medication. Mass education through different media and policy reform are recommended.

Poverty reduction strategies have become a popular policy instrument for addressing poverty across various levels of government. In 2015, the City of Toronto launched phase one of its own municipal poverty reduction strategy, which ran from 2015 to 2018. The following commentary uses strategy design principles to examine the strengths and weaknesses of phase one of the Toronto Poverty Reduction Strategy (TPRS) based on interviews conducted with four key stakeholders involved in the strategy’s design and implementation. Joined-up governance and public participation were both identified as design strengths of the TPRS, while a lack of prioritization and funding were identified as challenges to effective implementation. As governments across Canada and the world search for feasible, acceptable, and effective ways to reduce and alleviate poverty and other health-related issues. strategy design principles provide a valuable framework for analyzing the complex processes which contribute to a strategy’s success or failure.

Deciding whether and how to disclose a disability at work for persons with non-visible disabilities and illnesses involve complex processes. Research has focused on antecedents and outcomes of disclosure. More research is needed to understand the lived experiences related to disclosure decision-making and actual navigation of disclosure and concealment at work.To understand the experiences of persons with non-visible disabilities and illnesses regarding workplace disclosure decision-making, navigating disclosure and/or concealment, and experiential differences across disability and illness types, ages, geographic locations, and genders.We conducted a qualitative meta-synthesis using Noblit and Hare's seven steps of meta-ethnography. Searches were conducted via six databases. Studies were analyzed to develop conceptual categories, third-order constructs (themes), and a line-of-argument with comparisons drawn from the disclosure decision making model, disclosure process model, and consideration of disability and illness types, genders, ages, and geographic locations.Twenty-four studies were included involving 489 participants, aged 16 to 81, from nine countries, focusing on one non-visible disability or illness, or multiple. We developed four themes for the disclosure decision-making process (self- and other-focused, experiential, and environmental/workplace factors) and two themes for the disclosure/concealment event (disclosure/concealment logistics and timing) and noted emerging trends across ages, genders, disability and illness types, and geographic locations.Knowledge obtained could be used among professionals who support persons with non-visible disabilities and illnesses to help them navigate disclosure at work, and to consider the role of age, genders, disability and illness types, and geographic locations on disclosure.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional, non-nutritional as well as physico-chemical characteristics of biscuits developed from the supplementation of wheat flour with different levels of whey protein concentrate (WPC). The biscuits were prepared by using composite blends of wheat flour (WF) and WPC in different combination such as 100:0 (WF), 95:5 (WWP 5%), 90:10 (WWP 10%) and 85:15 (WWP 15). Proximate analysis of control as well as treated sample showed significant rise in crude protein content, with increase in WPC supplementation. Moreover, Non-nutritional factor such as tannin content and polyphenols was found to be highest in WF sample followed by WWP (5%), WWP (10%) and WWP (15%). In addition to that, in-vitro protein digestibility (IVPD) was found to be highest in WPC and when IVPD was compared with the crude protein, a significant difference was observed. Additionally, with the increase in WPC ratio the concentration of lysine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid was improved. Moreover mineral analysis revealed that, WF had highest amount of iron 0.66 mg/100g followed by WWP (5%), WWP (10%), WWP (15%) and WPC. Moreover, spread ratio of cookies found to be significant with the increase in the levels of WPC. Sensory evaluation of the samples revealed that, WWP (15%) had highest acceptance rating followed by WWP (10%). Based upon our investigation, we found that WPC could be a good source of supplementation for the development of protein enriched biscuits to combat the problem of malnutrition.

The term granuloma annulare (GA) appropriately describes the classic type characterized by ringed erythematous plaques with histological palisaded granulomatous inflammation. However, GA now includes a range of disease. Over time, more atypical, rare types have been reported in isolated case reports or small case series. Here, we describe a unique case of generalized GA presented by two morphologically different lesions in a 52 years old diabetic man. To the best of our knowledge, this association has never been reported in the literature.

Introduction: Subjects using hearing aids complains of difficulty in speech understanding in noise. Speech auditory brainstem response (S-ABR) provides cues for temporal and spectral encoding of sp...

The impact of ten cytokine gene single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs: IFNG+874 (rs2430561), IL2+166 (rs2069763), IL2−330 (rs2069762), IL4−33 (rs2070874), IL4−590 (rs2243250), IL4−1098 (rs2243248), IL10−592 (rs1800872), IL10−819 (rs1800871), IL10−1082 (rs1800896), and IL12B−1188 (rs3212227)] on serum level of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-12 was determined among 127 Iraqi Arabs (60 males and 67 females). Their age mean ± SD was 24.1 ± 15.5 years. The results revealed that IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-10 levels showed no gender-associated variation, while IL-12 level was significantly increased in females compared to males. Alleles of the ten SNPs showed polymorphic frequencies, and C allele of IL12B−1188 SNP recorded the lowest frequency (27.2%). With respect to the impact of SNP genotype on cytokine level, only IL2+166 (total sample and males), IL4−33, and IL4−590 (total sample and females) SNPs showed a significant impact on the level of their corresponding cytokines (IL-2 and IL-4). In conclusion, a positive influence of IL2+166, IL4−590, and IL4−33 SNP genotypes on IL-2 and IL-4 levels is suggested, and such influence was gender-dependent.

Diabetes is the greatest public condition among patients with coronavirus disease and has been found to affect prognosis worldwide It is revealed that hyperglycemia is one of the elements that elevates the risk of consequences in these persons This study designed to analysis the overall features of the novel coronavirus and provide an understanding of the coronavirus disease in diabetic patients, and its treatment These patients are usually treated with various medications and this review clarify the role of metformin and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors as helpful factors in these patients Recommendations are made on the probable pathophysiological mechanisms of the association between coronavirus and diabetes, and its management Additional study about this association and its clinical managing is necessary © 2021, Institute of Medico-Legal Publications All rights reserved

Schizencephaly is a rare central nervous system (CNS) malformation secondary to neuronal migration defects. The pathogenesis is complex and is secondary to environmental and genetic factors. Clinically, the majority of patients present with varying degrees of motor and psychological disturbances. Imaging plays a cornerstone in the diagnosis by identifying the characteristic lesional features and recognising other associated abnormalities such as an absent septum pellucidum and corpus callosum dysgenesis. Here, we present a male paediatric case who presented with an interestingly asymptomatic unilateral right closed-lip schizencephaly and review the aetiology, clinical presentation and imaging characteristics of the disease and associated literature.

The aim of this study was to know the effect of electronic games programs on the level of intelligence for the first episode students in Khartoum State. To achieve this goal, the researchers used the semi- experimental, one- group approach, and both tribal and post- test. The original study population included 450 students, the study sample was randomly selected. It consisted of (27) students of the first seminar in the Al- Qabas primary school in Omdurman. The students ranged in age from (6- 9) years. The tools of the study in the standard of the intelligence of John- Raven stained color on the Sudanese environment Mehd Al- Mutawakil and others (2006), the researchers applied the study tools before the program, and after apply its continued month during the academic year (2017/2018), Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) some statistical indicators were selected such as arithmetical mean and percentage, Mann- Tenni test, ETA square test, first- order variance analysis Crosscall- Wales, and T test. The study obtain the following results: There were statistically significant differences after the implementation of the electronic games program to improve the IQ of the students of the first class first episode in the Omdurman topical- Khartoum State, for the benefit of post- application, there are differences of statistical significance in the effectiveness of the electronic games program in improving the intelligence of the sample for the benefit of students in the first and second class, based on this, the researchers presented a number of recommendations, the most important of which are: generalization the program on the Khartoum state schools to develop the intelligence of the children of the first episode and encourage the use of electronic games in the process of learning and develop their intelligence skills.

Research Objectives To understand the facilitators for helping youth with and without disabilities to cope and maintain mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design A descriptive design using in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews with a narrative thematic analysis. Setting Greater Toronto Area, Ontario, Canada which was considered a hot zone for COVID-19 cases and deaths. Participants A purposive sample of 34 youth (17 with a disability; 17 without) aged 16-29 (mean age 23.2). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Interviews with participants Results Our findings revealed several similarities and some differences between youth with and without disabilities regarding facilitators for maintaining mental health during the pandemic. Enablers of coping included: (1) social support, (2) financial support, (3) keeping busy (i.e., having a daily routine, working to keep the mind occupied, volunteering to boost mental health, focusing on school work), and (4) work-life balance (i.e., reduced commute, more time for exercising, going outdoors, cooking, sleeping better, and reflection on life's purpose). Conclusions Our findings highlight how having coping strategies could help youth to deal with pandemic-related stress. Youth with disabilities may need some additional support in accessing resources, exercising and going outdoors to help enhance their coping strategies. Author(s) Disclosures None.

Background The Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic has greatly impacted people's mental health. Youth with disabilities are at particular risk for the psychological implications of the pandemic. Although much attention has been given to pandemic-related mental health challenges that youth have encountered, little is known about the facilitators for coping with the stresses of the pandemic and how this varies for youth with and without disabilities. Objective The purpose of this study was to understand facilitators for helping youth and young adults with and without disabilities to cope and maintain mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with 34 youth and young adults (17 with a disability; 17 without), aged 16–29 (mean age 23.2). A narrative, thematic analysis of the transcripts was performed. Results Our findings revealed several similarities and some differences between youth and young adults with and without disabilities regarding facilitators for maintaining mental health during the pandemic. Enablers of coping included: (1) social support; (2) financial support, (3) keeping busy (i.e., having a daily routine, working to keep the mind occupied, volunteering to boost mental health, focusing on school work), and (4) work-life balance (i.e., reduced commute, more time for exercising, going outdoors, cooking, sleeping better, and reflection on life's purpose). Conclusions Our findings highlight how having coping strategies could help to youth and young adults deal with pandemic-related stress. Youth with disabilities may need some additional support in accessing resources, exercising and going outdoors to help enhance their coping strategies.