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The need for the introduction of economical and quicker retrofitting techniques is increasing due to the ever-aging infrastructure and damages produced by major catastrophic events around the world. The application of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRPs) for strengthening and retrofitting of reinforced concrete structures is gaining popularity due to its higher strength, lightweight, durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic value. This study presents the results of two strengthened and two retrofitted beams in comparison to control specimens. Two specimens were strengthened and two were retrofitted by attaching CFRP (Sika Carbo-Dur S812 or Sika- Wrap 230C) to the tension side of the beams using high strength epoxy. The results show that one CFRP strip/wrap simply attached at the tension side can help the damaged beam regain/pass the original strength. All specimens fail due to debonding of CFRP from the concrete surface emphasizing the need for efficient anchorage systems. Among the four patterns adopted, CFRP strips along with u-shaped anchorages at the ends provided the highest strength enhancement of 17.36%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It is characterized by the formation of coronary artery thrombus which can be either due to plaque rupture, plaque erosion or rupture of a calcific nodule. The aim of study was to assess the plaque morphology leading acute coronary syndrome using OCT and to guide management based on its findings. It was an observational study, conducted at Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology from Jan to Dec 2019. Methods: Fifty patients meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the study. OCT procedure was performed following intracoronary injection of 100-150 ug of nitroglycerine. The imaging catheter (OFDI dragon view) of the OCT device (Terumo Luna wave OFDI, Tokyo, Japan) was inserted into the culprit artery. Blood clearance was achieved by injecting diluted iodinated contrast at the rate of 5 ml/sec. Imaging acquisition was obtained following automated pullback at the rate of 25 mm/sec. Pathologies like stent under deployment, mal-apposition, strut fracture, plaque erosion, plaque rupture were assessed by the operating interventionist well versed with the OCT technology and lesion assessment. Data analysis was done using the SPSS version 26. Categorical variables were presented as counts and percentages while continuous variables as mean±SD. Results: A total of 50 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 49.24±11.92. Majority of the patients were male comprising 78.0% of the cases. Plaque rupture was the most common underlying pathology seen in 32.5% of the patients and exclusively in STEMI patients which required stent deployment. Thin cap fibroatheroma was seen in 27.9% of the cases while lipid rich plaque in 23.2% of the cases; again, requiring stent deployment. 9.3% of the cases had plaque erosion while 4.6% had calcific nodule and only 2.3% had intramural hematoma which were treated conservatively. 42.8% of the stent thrombosis patients had under-deployed stents requiring balloon dilatation while 14.2% had mal-apposed stent again requiring balloon dilatation. In contrast 14.2% each had neo-atherosclerosis, stent strut fracture and uncovered stent struts as the underlying pathology for stent thrombosis each requiring stent deployment. Conclusion: OCT guided PCI in cases of acute coronary syndrome is a valuable modality that gives insight into the underlying pathology of the disease process and also guides in proper management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tendency of brotherhood is more pronounced in human beings, for they are not only capable of realizing the spirit of brotherhood, but also of fulfilling the purpose hidden in the natural tendency. Human beings do not really notice how far the spirit of agitation follows a person on the path of spiritual progress.

The article explores population trend of Lipaphis erysimi, a canola aphid, and its associated natural enemies in different Brassica lines along with the effect of gamma radiation on their population during spring 2007. Three different Brassica lines, F6B3, F6B6 and F6B7, were used. The peak population of 4.39 aphids leaf was recorded during second week of March and lowest population of 1.02 aphids leaf was recorded during fifth week of March. The species of lady bird beetle and syrphid fly first appeared on February 24. Among all the Brassica lines, F6B7 exhibited more resistance versus other lines.

Presents the author's call on humanity to unite in a world brotherhood beyond the boundaries of caste, creed, race, nation and religion. Promotion of tolerance to all and understanding above all things; Analysis of pertinent topics and relevant issues; Implications on studies of religion and psychical research.