Effect of carbon allotropes and thickness variation on the EMI shielding properties of PANI/NFO@CNTs and PANI/NFO@RGO ternary composite systems

The innovative design of thin, multiphase flexible composite systems with good mechanical properties, low density and improved EMI shielding properties at low filler content has become a key area of research. In this work, we report the low temperature synthesis of three-dimensional ternary composites (PANI/NFO@CNTs and PANI/NFO@RGO) by oxidative chemical polymerization of aniline in the presence of two different binary composites, viz. NFO@CNTs and NFO@RGO. Enhanced impedance matching is achieved by varying the ratio of the carbon allotropes (CNTs and RGO) to the ferrite component. The synthesis of NFO, PANI/NFO@CNTs and PANI/NFO@RGO is validated by XRD and FTIR spectroscopy. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) confirmed the synthesis of core-shell structures of PANI/NFO@CNTs and PANI/NFO@RGO, where the binary composites (NFO@CNTs and NFO@RGO) serve as a core onto which a tubular PANI layer was coated. Shielding effectiveness of 22.36 dB (99.41% attenuation) is exhibited by the ternary composite PANI/NFO@CNTs (8 : 1), while for PANI/NFO@RGO (20 : 1) a total shielding effectiveness of 31 dB equivalent to 99.92% attenuation was observed at a thickness of 2 mm. The ternary composite PANI/NFO@RGO (20 : 1) 4 mm showed a maximum SET of 43 dB corresponding to 99.996% attenuation of incident EM waves. The enhanced EMI shielding properties of the synthesized ternary composite systems are accredited to good impedance matching, effective dielectric and magnetic loss mechanisms and good conductivity, which facilitate multiple reflections and scattering of incident radiation.

Enhancement in the dielectric and magnetic properties of Ni2+-Cu2+ co-doped BaFe11Cu1-xNixO19 hexaferrites (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0)

Herein, Ni2+-Cu2+ co-doped barium hexaferrites (BaFe11Cu1-xNixO19, 0.0 ≤ x≤ 1.0 with an interval of 0.25) were successfully synthesized using a co-precipitation method. The formation of a magnetoplumbite structure with the P63/mmc space group was confirmed by Rietveld refinement of the obtained X-ray diffraction patterns. Microstructural investigations revealed grains in the shape of hexagonal plates, while co-doping resulted in a variation in the grain sizes of the prepared samples. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was performed to determine the valence state of iron in the prepared hexaferrites. Impedance spectroscopy analysis revealed that dielectric permittivity initially decreased with an increase in the co-dopant content up to x = 0.5 and then increased by two orders of magnitude for x = 1.0. Alternatively, resistive properties showed microstructural resistance values in the range 105-108 Ω, with the highest value obtained for the sample with x = 0.5. Furthermore, magnetic measurements indicated that all the prepared samples exhibited ferrimagnetic behaviour. Saturation magnetization and magnetic anisotropy values were found to be the highest for the sample with x = 1.0, which also had the lowest coercivity among the prepared samples. Herein, the observed variations in the obtained results can be explained by the variations in grain sizes and the Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio associated with the preferential occupation of co-dopants at octahedral sites. Based on our findings, the BaFe11Ni1O19 (x = 1.0) composition appears to be the most promising choice as a microwave absorption material among the prepared samples owing to the coexistence of high dielectric permittivity (>103 at 107 Hz) and saturation magnetization (73 emu g-1).

Temperature-dependent conduction mechanism of NiO@Carbon@Polypyrrole nanomaterial with EMI shielding characteristics

A simple hydrothermal technique and in-situ chemical oxidative polymerization of pyrrole monomer yield the functionalized NiO@C@PPy nanomaterial for electromagnetic shielding applications. The crystal structure, morphology, dielectric and electromagnetic shielding (EMI) performance in the X-band (8.2-12.4 GHz) is thoroughly studied. Impedance spectroscopy is utilized to study the electrical response of a NiO@C@PPy pellet. This study focuses on the modulations of relaxation time with frequency at different temperatures. In the NiO@C@PPy composite, a semiconductor-to-metal transition (SMT) is observed, at 328 K. The conduction mechanism of NiO@C@PPy is explained based on the carrier hopping transport model in Ni2+ and Ni3+ ions. It is evident from the activation energy value (Ea ≈ 0.32 eV) determined from impedance, conductivity, and dielectric data that the relaxation and conduction processes correspond to the same electro-active region. Using the variable range hopping (VRH) model localization length of the carrier is calculated to be 1.56 Å. The NiO@C@PPy sample demonstrated enhanced conductivity and low dielectric values which are vital in EMI shielding applications. Consequently, the electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness is found to be 21.9 dB of NiO@C@PPy in the X-band frequency range. This composite material is a good candidate for high frequency shielding applications.

Exploring Heterogeneity in perinatal depression: a comprehensive review

Perinatal depression (PND) is a significant contributor to maternal morbidity globally. Recognized as a major cause of poor infant development, epidemiological and interventional research on it has increased over the last decade. Recently, studies have pointed out that PND is a heterogeneous condition, with variability in its phenotypes, rather than a homogenous latent entity and a concrete diagnosis, as previously conceptualized in psychometric literature and diagnostic systems. Therefore, it is pertinent that researchers recognize this to progress in elucidating its aetiology and developing efficacious interventions.This systematic review is conducted in accordance with the Meta-analysis of observational studies in epidemiology (MOOSE). It aims to provide an updated and comprehensive account of research on heterogeneity in phenotypes of PND and its implications in research, public health, and clinical practice. It provides a synthesis and quality assessment of studies reporting heterogeneity in PND using cutting-edge statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms. After reporting the phenotypes of PND, based on heterogeneous trajectories and symptom profiles, it also elucidates the risk factors associated with severe forms of PND, followed by robust evidence for adverse child outcomes. Furthermore, recommendations are made to improve public health and clinical practice in screening, diagnosis, and treatment of PND.

Analytical study to effects on reflection coefficient of Ti-Mn alloys at increasing concentration Mn element in the dental implants application

Manganese (Mn) is one of the trace elements in the human body, The titanium-manganese (TiMn) alloys have been used in some applications as well. The TiMn alloys with various manganese contents ranging from 2 to 12 wt % were prepared by using mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering (SPS) techniques (Sibum, 2003). This paper investigated the effects of increasing manganese content in the Ti. Concentrations of Mn (2 wt % to 12 wt %) in titanium influence the reflection coefficients and acoustic signatures of Ti-Mn alloys by Scanning Acoustic Microscopy (SAM) technique, was determined by The oscillatory behavior, The spectral treatment of these signatures, via fast Fourier transform. Correspond to longitudinal and Rayleigh relations depend on Mn Concentrations, was Concluded that Mn Concentrations (from 2 wt % To 12 wt %) increase with increasing Bulk physical properties and Acoustic wave velocities (AWV) as Young's Modulus, Shear Modulus, Bulk modulus, Longitudinal Velocity, Transverse Velocity, and Rayleigh Velocity were (from 105 To 122)Gpa, (from 39.6 To 45.9)Gpa, (from 103 To 119.6)Gpa, (from 4862 To 6183) ms1, (from 2450 To 3115)ms-1and (from 1658 To 2064)ms-1 respectively.

Biological Evaluation and Computational Studies of Methoxy-flavones from Newly Isolated Radioresistant Micromonospora aurantiaca Strain TMC-15

This study aims to determine UV-B resistance and to investigate computational analysis and antioxidant potential of methoxy-flavones of Micromonospora aurantiaca TMC-15 isolated from Thal Desert, Pakistan. The cellular extract was purified through solid-phase extraction and UV-Vis spectrum analysis indicated absorption peaks at λ_max 250 nm, 343 nm, and 380 nm that revealed the presence of methoxy-flavones named eupatilin and 5-hydroxyauranetin. The flavones were evaluated for their antioxidant as well as protein and lipid peroxidation inhibition potential using di(phenyl)-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl) iminoazanium (DPPH), 2,4-dinitrophenyl hydrazine (DNPH), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assays, respectively. The methoxy-flavones were further studied for their docking affinity and interaction dynamics to determine their structural and energetic properties at the atomic level. The antioxidant potential, protein, and lipid oxidation inhibition and DNA damage preventive abilities were correlated as predicted by computational analysis. The eupatilin and 5-hydroxyauranetin binding potential to their targeted proteins 1N8Q and 1OG5 is - 4.1 and - 7.5 kcal/mol, respectively. Moreover, the eupatiline and 5-hydroxyauranetin complexes illustrate van der Waals contacts and strong hydrogen bonds to their respective enzymes target. Both in vitro studies and computational analysis results revealed that methoxy-flavones of Micromonospora aurantiaca TMC-15 can be used against radiation-mediated oxidative damages due to its kosmotrophic nature. The demonstration of good antioxidant activities not only protect DNA but also protein and lipid oxidation and therefore could be a good candidate in radioprotective drugs and as sunscreen due to its kosmotropic nature.

Fabrication of La3+ doped Ba1-x La x TiO3 ceramics with improved dielectric and ferroelectric properties using a composite-hydroxide-mediated method

Lanthanum (La³⁺) doped Ba_1-x La _x TiO₃ (x = 0.0, 0.0025, 0.005, 0.0075) ceramics were synthesized by the composite-hydroxide-mediated method. Rietveld refinement of the XRD patterns confirmed the formation of a perovskite crystal structure that transforms from tetragonal to pseudo-cubic with La³⁺ doping content (x). Scanning electron microscopy displayed a dense and homogeneous microstructure with reduced grain size on La³⁺ doping. The frequency and temperature-dependent dielectric measurements showed an improvement in the dielectric permittivity, a decrease in the ferroelectric-paraelectric transition temperature, and an increase in the dielectric diffusivity with increasing La³⁺ doping content. Complex impedance analysis indicated the semiconducting behavior with a positive temperature coefficient of resistance effect, which could be explained in terms of a charge compensation mechanism in the donor doped BaTiO₃. The ferroelectric hysteresis loops revealed that these ceramics are ferroelectric in nature, while an improvement in the energy storage density and energy storage efficiency was observed for the doped samples due to reduced grain size on La³⁺ doping. Here, the sample with x = 0.005 has a high dielectric permittivity, a low dielectric tangent loss, and the highest energy storage efficiency. This makes this composition interesting for energy storage applications.

Evaluation of potential ecological risk assessment of toxic metal (lead) in contaminated meadows in the vicinity of suburban city: soil vs forages vs livestock

Heavy metal toxicity is becoming an increasing concern for environmental, human and animal health. The current research analyzed the lead (Pb) contamination in the food chain under three different irrigation sources (ground, canal, and wastewater). Soil, plant and animal samples were collected from the Jhang district of Pakistan and processed with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Lead concentration varied in the samples as: 5.22-10.73 mg/kg in soil, 2.46-10.34 mg/kg in forages and 0.736-2.45 mg/kg in animal samples. The observed lead concentration in forage and animal blood samples was higher than the standard limits. The pollution load index (0.640-1.32) in soil showed that lead contamination mainly took place at the wastewater irrigating sites. Bio-concentration factor values (0.313-1.15) were lower than one in all samples except Zea mays, showing that lead metal was actively taken up by Zea mays tissues from the soil. Enrichment factor values ranged from 0.849-3.12, showing a moderate level of lead enrichment. Daily intake and health risk index varied between 0.004-0.020 mg/kg/day and 0.906-4.99, respectively. All the samples showed maximum lead concentration at the wastewater irrigating site compared to the ground or canal water application sites. These results recommended that consistent application of wastewater for forage irrigation must be avoided to prevent health hazards associated with lead in the animal and human food chain. Government must implement adequate strategies to protect the animal and human health from the harms of toxic heavy metals.

Cobalt availability in the soil plant and animal food chain: a study under a peri-urban environment

Cobalt metal is considered as an essential trace element for the animals. Present investigation was undertaken in the peri-urban area to analyze the cobalt availability in animal food chain by using different indices. Cow, buffalo and sheep samples along with forage and soil samples were collected from the three different sites of District Jhang and analyzed through atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Cobalt values differed in soil samples as 0.315-0.535 mg/kg, forages as 0.127-0.333 mg/kg and animal samples as 0.364-0.504 mg/kg. Analyzed cobalt concentration in soil, forage and animal samples was found to be deficient in concentration with respect to standard limits. Soil showed the minimum cobalt level in Z. mays while maximum concentration was examined in the forage C. decidua samples. All indices examined in this study has values lesser than 1, representing the safer limits of the cobalt concentration in these samples. Enrichment factor (0.071-0.161 mg/kg) showed the highly deficient amount of cobalt enrichment in this area. Bio-concentration factor (0.392-0.883) and pollution load index (0.035-0.059 mg/kg) values were also lesser than 1 explains that plant and soil samples are not contaminated with cobalt metal. The daily intake and health risk index ranged from 0.00019-0.00064 mg/kg/day and 0.0044-0.0150 mg/kg/day respectively. Among the animals, cobalt availability was maximum (0.0150 mg/kg/day) in the buffaloes that grazed on the C. decidua fodder. Results of this study concluded that cobalt containing fertilizers must be applied on the soil and forages. Animal feed derived from the cobalt containing supplements are supplied to the animals, to fulfill the nutritional requirements of livestock.

978 Evaluation of the Quality of Our Consent Forms Used for Ureteroscopy and Nephroureteroscopy - Is It Time to Go Digital?

Aim

Consent documentation for surgical procedures must be precise and clear in order to achieve excellence in clinical practice. In this audit, we aim to compare our consent forms against BAUS information leaflets on ureteroscopy and stone procedure and assess the documentation of all serious and frequently occurring complications as mentioned on BAUS leaflet.

Method

We retrospectively reviewed the consent forms of 60 patients who underwent elective ureteroscopy between August 2020 - April 2021 to assess the quality of documentation as well as legibility of handwriting.

Results

As a total of 60 consent forms were reviewed. 35 males and 25 females contributed to the study with 59 being the median age. There were over 10 risks being commonly missed. Some of the important risks such as stone recurrence 95%, catheterisation 92%, major damage to ureter wall 86%, pain 71% and residual stone 61% were missed. The documentation also outlines other risks; ureteric stricture 53%, aesthetic risk 67%, failure to access ureter 51% and stent symptoms 47%. Minor damage to the wall of ureter 41%, alongside need of another surgery were recorded as other commonly neglected risks. However, only 7% of the consent forms did not mention bleeding and just 2% of the forms failed to include stent insertion as a common effect of procedure. Only 17% consent for did not have eligible handwriting, although this is subjective.

Conclusions

Documentation on consent forms for ureteroscopy lacks accuracy and missed important information. We propose use of digital consent form to assess compliance and quality of consent documentation.

Toward High-Temperature Light-Induced Spin-State Trapping in Spin-Crossover Materials: The Interplay of Collective and Molecular Effects

Spin-crossover (SCO) materials display many fascinating behaviors including collective phase transitions and spin-state switching controlled by external stimuli, e.g., light and electrical currents. As single-molecule switches, they have been fêted for numerous practical applications, but these remain largely unrealized-partly because of the difficulty of switching these materials at high temperatures. We introduce a semiempirical microscopic model of SCO materials combining crystal field theory with elastic intermolecular interactions. For realistic parameters, this model reproduces the key experimental results including thermally induced phase transitions, light-induced spin-state trapping (LIESST), and reverse-LIESST. Notably, we reproduce and explain the experimentally observed relationship between the critical temperature of the thermal transition, T_1/2, and the highest temperature for which the trapped state is stable, T_LIESST, and explain why increasing the stiffness of the coordination sphere increases T_LIESST. We propose strategies to design SCO materials with higher T_LIESST: optimizing the spin-orbit coupling via heavier atoms (particularly in the inner coordination sphere) and minimizing the enthalpy difference between the high-spin (HS) and low-spin (LS) states. However, the most dramatic increases arise from increasing the cooperativity of the spin-state transition by increasing the rigidity of the crystal. Increased crystal rigidity can also stabilize the HS state to low temperatures on thermal cycling yet leave the LS state stable at high temperatures following, for example, reverse-LIESST. We show that such highly cooperative systems offer a realistic route to robust room-temperature switching, demonstrate this in silico, and discuss material design rationale to realize this.

Unusual semiconductor-metal-semiconductor transitions in magnetite Fe3O4 nanoparticles

Magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles were successfully prepared by a co-precipitation method. Rietveld refinement on the X-ray diffraction pattern confirmed the development of a single-phase cubic spinel structure with space group Fd3̄m. However, ⁵⁷Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy suggested the presence of Fe³⁺ and Fe^2.5+ (mixed Fe³⁺ and Fe²⁺) ions at the tetrahedral and octahedral sites of the inverse spinel structure, respectively. Impedance spectroscopy measurements showed a discontinues variation in the temperature dependence of the sample's resistive behavior, indicating the appearance of semiconductor–metal–semiconductor like transitions between the temperature range of 293 and 373 K. A similar dual transition was also observed from the dielectric and conductivity measurements around the same temperature regions. The observed unusual transition is explained in term of the competitive effects among the hopping of localized/delocalized and short-range/long-range charge carriers present in the sample. Moreover, the prepared sample exhibits colossal dielectric permittivity (∼10⁶), reduced tangent loss (∼0.2) and moderate conductivity (>10⁻⁶ S cm⁻¹) values, making Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles a potential candidate for electromagnetic absorbing materials.

Herein, we report the existence of a novel semiconductor–metal–semiconductor type transition in Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles by employing impedance spectroscopy techniques.

Development of chitosan based microencapsulated spray dried powder of tuna fish oil: oil load impact and oxidative stability

The impact of fish oil concentration on the oxidative stability of microcapsules through the spray drying process using chitosan and maltodextrin as wall material was studied. Emulsions were prepared with different Tuna fish oil (TFO) content (TFO-10%, TFO20%, TF030% TF0-40%) while wall material concentration was kept constant. Microencapsulated powder resulting from emulsion prepared with high fish oil load have high moisture content, wettability, total oil and low encapsulation efficiency, hygroscopicity and bulk tapped density. Oxidative stability was evaluated periodically by placing microcapsules at room temperature. Microcapsules prepared with TFO-10% presented high oxidative stability in terms of peroxide value (2.94±0.04) and anisidine value (1.54±0.02) after 30 days of storage. It was concluded that optimal amounts of fish oil for microencapsulation are 10% and 20% using chitosan and maltodextrin that extended its shelf life during study period.

Hepatitis E virus genotyping in Pakistan: a regional study to explore the implications for pregnant females

Aim: Hepatitis E virus (HEV) has different genotypes 1–4, which is generally associated with mild to severe complications among immunocompromised patients and pregnant women. Materials & methods: Immunoglobulin M (IgM) HEV-positive samples were collected from the diagnostic center. HEV infection was further confirmed by RT-based PCR and genotyping was done to affirm the prevailing genotype. Results: This study identified 28 patients from Islamabad who were confirmed to have immunoglobulins type M against HEV showing acute infection, of which 17 were pregnant and 11 were non-pregnant women. All pregnant women were in their third trimester of pregnancy. Conclusion: Genotype-1 is commonly associated with pregnant females presenting with HEV infections in Islamabad. There is a need to further identify both the sources & route of infections.

WITHDRAWN: Diagnostic accuracy of folate receptor-positive circulating tumor cells detected by ligand-targeted polymerase chain reaction in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer: A meta-analysis

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P1662All cause mortality outcomes of various types of stem cell therapies in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy: an updated meta analysis and systematic review

Background

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (ischemic and non-ischemic) has been associated with very high mortality despite maximal medical and device therapy. Recently, several clinical trials involving different types of stem cells for the management of dilated cardiomyopathy have shown significant improvement in cardiac function, however, these studies were not powered to calculate mortality benefit. A previous meta analysis included 17 randomized controlled trials, however, there has been new randomized trials published since last meta analysis, hence the need for an updated meta analysis.

Purpose

Comparison of all cause mortality rate between stem cell therapy group and standard therapy group in patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy followed for 12 months or more.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of Medline (Pubmed) and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for abstracts and fully published studies (from inception through April, 2018) comparing various types of stem cell therapies with standard of therapy for patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (ischemic and non-ischemic).

Study selection

Only fully published randomized clinical trials and abstracts of randomized trials comparing all cause mortality outcomes of various types of stem cell therapies and standard therapy for patient with dilated cardiomyopathy (ischemic and non-ischemic) followed over a period of 12 or more months were included in our meta-analysis. Total of 1392 studies were identified. Studies which were duplicate, non-randomized, included pediatric population, systematic reviews or meta-analysis, study designs or protocols, trials including gene therapy or had follow up of patients for less than 12 months were excluded.

Data extraction and Synthesis: Data were abstracted by two independent reviewers. Using Mantel-Haenszal method, a random effect model was used to calculate weighted Risk ratio (RR). RevMan 5.3 was used for statistical analyses.

Results

Twenty eight fully published randomized clinical trials and one abstract of randomized controlled trial met inclusion criteria of our analysis. Using Mantel-Haenszel method, a random effect model was used to calculate the weighted risk ratios. Our analysis included a total of 1662 patients. Stem cell therapy group showed significant reduction in mortality compared to standard therapy group (risk ratio [RR], 0.68; 95% confidence interval, 0.53–0.87) Fig 1. Tests for statistical heterogeneity did not show any significant heterogeneity p-value = 0.80 (I2 = 0%). Limitations of our study include selection, attrition and performance biases in the included studies. Fig 2 shows distribution of the included studies.

Conclusion

Stem cell therapy is associated with significant mortality reduction in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (ischemic and non-ischemic). Our meta-analysis underscores the importance of conducting large randomized clinical trial to assess the mortality outcomes of stem cell therapy.

HDAC2 dysregulation in the nucleus basalis of Meynert during the progression of Alzheimer's disease

AIMS

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by degeneration of cholinergic basal forebrain (CBF) neurons in the nucleus basalis of Meynert (nbM), which provides the major cholinergic input to the cortical mantle and is related to cognitive decline in patients with AD. Cortical histone deacetylase (HDAC) dysregulation has been associated with neuronal degeneration during AD progression. However, whether HDAC alterations play a role in CBF degeneration during AD onset is unknown. We investigated global HDAC protein levels and nuclear HDAC2 immunoreactivity in tissue containing the nbM, changes and their association with neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) during the progression of AD.

METHODS

We used semi-quantitative western blotting and immunohistochemistry to evaluate HDAC and sirtuin (SIRT) levels in individuals that died with a premortem clinical diagnosis of no cognitive impairment (NCI), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), mild/moderate AD (mAD) or severe AD (sAD). Quantitative immunohistochemistry was used to identify HDAC2 protein levels in individual cholinergic nbM nuclei and their colocalization with the early phosphorylated tau marker AT8, the late-stage apoptotic tau marker TauC3 and Thioflavin-S, a marker of β-pleated sheet structures in NFTs.

RESULTS

In AD patients, HDAC2 protein levels were dysregulated in the basal forebrain region containing cholinergic neurons of the nbM. HDAC2 nuclear immunoreactivity was reduced in individual cholinergic nbM neurons across disease stages. HDAC2 nuclear reactivity correlated with multiple cognitive domains and with NFT formation.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that HDAC2 dysregulation contributes to cholinergic nbM neuronal dysfunction, NFT pathology, and cognitive decline during clinical progression of AD.

Life After the Event: A Review of Basic Life Support Training for Parents Following Apparent Life-Threatening Events and Their Experience and Practices Following Discharge

Apparent Life-Threatening Events (ALTEs) are a common presentation to paediatric hospitals and represent a significant cause of parental anxiety. Basic Life Support (BLS) training is recommended for all caregivers following ALTEs. This study aimed to assess the rate of caregiver BLS training and reviewed parents experience following discharge. Parents were interviewed by phone following discharge. Over the study period 25 children attended the Emergency Department with ALTE, 17/25 (68%) were trained and 13/17 (76%) were contactable for interview. All parents found training decreased their anxiety level and were interested in attending for re-training. BLS resuscitation was subsequently required by 2/13 (15%) of children. Non-medical grade monitors were in use by 10/13 (77%) of caregivers following discharge. Caregivers are eager to engage in BLS training and it effectively reduces their caregiver anxiety. We recommend an increase in instructor staff and use of group re-training post discharge.

Frequency and reasons of donor deferral prior to blood donation process: a single centre experience

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to determine the frequency and reasons for donor deferral prior to the blood donation process in our population.

BACKGROUND

Transfusion is an irreversible event that carries potential risks as well as benefits to the recipient. Therefore, donor selection prior to blood donation is one of the most important steps in ensuring the safety of blood and blood products.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was carried out at the blood bank department in our hospital from January 2012 to December 2014. All the blood donors who visited our department in the study period were included in this study.

RESULTS

A total of 25 901 potential donations were recorded during the study period, comprising 24 309 (93·8%) replacement and 1592 (6·2%) voluntary donations. Females accounted for only 222 (0·9%) of potential donations. Deferral occurred in 3156 (12·2%) of attempts; 280 (1·1%) were permanently deferred, while 2876 (11·1%) were temporarily deferred. The most common reason for permanent deferral was a history of hepatitis B infection (n = 147, 4·7% of all deferrals). Major reasons for temporary donor deferral were low levels of haemoglobin (n = 971, 30·76%), low levels of platelets (n = 611, 19·35%) and previous history of jaundice (n = 192, 6·1%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study reported a fairly similar pattern of donor deferrals as in other regional studies. Low haemoglobin levels and a history of hepatitis B infection were the most common factors for temporary and permanent donor deferrals, respectively.

Validation of MASCC Score for Risk Stratification in Patients of Hematological Disorders with Febrile Neutropenia

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association of MASCC score (Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer Score) in patients with febrile neutropenia (as resultant treatment of hematological disorders) for risk assessment of morbidity and mortality.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients presenting with Febrile Neutropenia from November 2011 till December 2013 were enrolled in the study. Initially all patients were hospitalized and their MASCC score was calculated, however those with high risk stayed in hospital till full ANC recovery while low risk group was discharged earlier and keenly followed as out-patient while being on prophylactic oral antibiotics. The MASCC risk-index score was calculated and patients with risk score >21 were regarded as low-risk while <21 were labeled as high-risk.

RESULTS

On the basis of 226 febrile neutropenia patient 132(58.4 %) were categorized as low risk while 94(41.5 %) as high risk patients according to MASCC risk index score. In low risk group 123(93 %) had uncomplicated infection while 9(7 %) had complicated infections. There was no mortality documented in low risk group while eight patients died in high risk group.

CONCLUSION

In this study we correctly predicted outcome of 123(93 %) low risk group patients. The study had positive predictive value of 93 % with both sensitivity and specificity of 65 and 75 % respectively. The MASCC risk score is a valuable tool in determining the outcome in patients with febrile neutropenia.

Urinary Tract Infection in Childhood and Inflammatory Markers>

Acute urinary tract infections are common in children. Our aim was to establish whether peripheral blood tests correlate with urinary culture. We also examined the relationship between peripheral blood results and the length of stay (LOS) in children and adolescents with UTI. We studied 135 patients admitted with UTI, mean (SD) age 3.0 (4.1) years. Of these 135 patients, 16 (11.9%) had combined normal serum WCC, normal neutrophil count and CRP < 5 mg/L. In this group of patients, there was no significant association between LOS and serum WCC, serum neutrophil values, E. coli infection or CRP values (p value 0.51, 0.98, 0.87, 0.82, respectively).

Nutritional and therapeutic perspectives of Chia (Salvia hispanica L.): a review

The ancient grain is becoming enormously popular in modern food regimen in many countries; the higher proportion of α-linolenic acid makes chia the superb source of omega-3 fatty (about 65 % of the oil content). Omega-3 fatty acid has been associated with a large number of physiological functions in human body. Chia seed is a potential source of antioxidants with the presence of chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol which are believed to have cardiac, hepatic protective effects, anti-ageing and anti-carcinogenic characteristics. It is also a great source of dietary fibre which is beneficial for the digestive system and controlling diabetes mellitus with higher concentration of beneficial unsaturated fatty acids, gluten free protein, vitamin, minerals and phenolic compounds. Therapeutic effects of chia in the control of diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-blood clotting, laxative, antidepressant, antianxiety, analgesic, vision and immune improver is scientifically established.

Investigation on the structural, dielectric and impedance analysis of manganese substituted cobalt ferrite i.e., Co1−xMnxFe2O4 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.4)

The microstructure and cation distribution of Co_1−xMnxFe₂O₄ were investigated and correlated with their electrical properties. Here, Mn substitution enhances the resistive properties which make them favorable for high-frequency applications.