The emergence of multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria has become a major global health concern due to the reduced effectiveness of conventional antibiotics. The present study evaluated the synergistic antibacterial activity of Azadirachta indica (neem) bark extract combined with Curcuma longa (turmeric) rhizome extract against selected multidrug resistant bacterial isolates. Ethanolic extracts of neem bark and turmeric rhizome were prepared and tested individually as well as in combination (1:1 ratio) using the disc diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar. The antibacterial activity was assessed against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus aureus. Chloramphenicol was used as the positive control, while ethanol served as the negative control. The combined extract demonstrated enhanced antibacterial activity compared to the individual extracts, indicating a synergistic effect between neem and turmeric. Maximum inhibition was observed against S. aureus (20 mm), followed by B. cereus (18 mm), E. coli (10 mm), and P. aeruginosa (8 mm). Individual extracts showed comparatively lower inhibition zones. The results suggest that the synergistic interaction of phytochemicals such as curcumin, flavonoids, tannins, and azadirachtin may contribute to the improved antibacterial effect. This study highlights the potential of combined medicinal plant extracts as natural alternative antimicrobial agents against multidrug resistant pathogens.

Abattoir wastewater is a significant source of heavy metal pollution, necessitating effective remediation strategies. This study investigated the adsorptive removal of selected heavy metals lead (Pb²⁺), copper (Cu²⁺), and chromium (Cr³⁺) from abattoir wastewater using synthesized cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer Emmett Teller (BET) analysis, confirming a cubic crystal structure, nanoscale morphology, and high specific surface area of 86.4 m²/g. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted at varying pH (3–8), contact time (10–120 min), adsorbent dosage (0.5–3.0 g/L), and initial metal concentrations (10–100 mg/L). Maximum removal efficiencies of 94.3%, 91.7%, and 89.5% were achieved for Pb²⁺, Cu²⁺, and Cr³⁺, respectively, at pH 6.0. Equilibrium data conformed best to the Langmuir isotherm model (R² > 0.99), indicating monolayer adsorption, while kinetic data fitted the pseudo-second-order model, confirming chemisorption as the dominant mechanism. These findings establish CdS nanoparticles as a highly efficient adsorbent for heavy metal remediation from abattoir wastewater.

Field hockey is one of the fastest moving games played in the modern Olympic Games. The game is a combination of a high level of physical fitness, along with mental skills practicing outmaneuvering one’s opponents. The aim of this research was to investigate and compare the mental skill status in field hockey players based on the level of participation. For the purpose of the present study, a sample comprising 44 field hockey players from various colleges of the University of Delhi was randomly chosen and consisted of 9 national-level players, 16 university-level players and 19 college-level players. A descriptive psychological profile was administered to the players using the Ottawa Mental Skills Assessment Tool (OMSAT-3) on a 5-point Likert scale. There are altogether 48 items in the questionnaire, investigating three main skills, including: foundation, psychomotor, and cognitive mental skills with sub-skills for all. Mean and standard deviation were calculated to explore dispersion of scores, while analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine differences in the athletes’ sub skills across latent constructs by domain. There were no differences between and within groups in core skills of foundation (self-confidence, goal setting, and commitment); psychomotor (activation control, relaxation, fear control, and stress reaction) and for cognitive mental skills (mental practice ability, competition planning, imaginary ability, refocusing attention, and focusing attention). It is concluded that the level of participation has no impact on mental proficiency status among field hockey players. However, mental skills are also important in terms of performance and therefore athletes should be given structured mental training alongside physical and technical preparation to maximize their potential.

The emergence of multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria has become a major global health concern due to the reduced effectiveness of conventional antibiotics. The present study evaluated the synergistic antibacterial activity of Azadirachta indica (neem) bark extract combined with Curcuma longa (turmeric) rhizome extract against selected multidrug resistant bacterial isolates. Ethanolic extracts of neem bark and turmeric rhizome were prepared and tested individually as well as in combination (1:1 ratio) using the disc diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar. The antibacterial activity was assessed against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, and Staphylococcus aureus. Chloramphenicol was used as the positive control, while ethanol served as the negative control. The combined extract demonstrated enhanced antibacterial activity compared to the individual extracts, indicating a synergistic effect between neem and turmeric. Maximum inhibition was observed against S. aureus (20 mm), followed by B. cereus (18 mm), E. coli (10 mm), and P. aeruginosa (8 mm). Individual extracts showed comparatively lower inhibition zones. The results suggest that the synergistic interaction of phytochemicals such as curcumin, flavonoids, tannins, and azadirachtin may contribute to the improved antibacterial effect. This study highlights the potential of combined medicinal plant extracts as natural alternative antimicrobial agents against multidrug resistant pathogens.

Nurses and midwives are the backbone of healthcare systems around the world, and their contributions to professionalism, illness prevention, and the delivery of quality care are undeniable and irrefutable. Promoting professional excellence in nursing and midwifery is an important priority for strengthening healthcare systems and improving patient outcomes. This paper explored the interrelated practice, education, and regulatory aspects of promoting professional excellence and standards in both nursing and midwifery. Given the ongoing conversations and evidence used in the classroom, the paper suggested that excellence results from ongoing investments in competency-based education, lifelong learning, and evidence-based clinical practice. The paper also highlighted the need for strong regulatory systems to foster accountability, ethical practice, and quality assurance in the healthcare sector. It examined the limitations inherent in Nurses and Midwives' ability to perform optimally and attain excellence in education, practice, and policy. However, the paper identified opportunities to be realized through curriculum innovation, better clinical mentorship, and changes to the regulatory framework. The paper found that a coordinated, systemic action plan must involve educators, practitioners, and regulatory stakeholders to establish a culture of excellence. This will not only improve professional practice but also play a vital role in providing safe, effective, and patient-centered health services in Nigeria. It was recommended that policies and professional regulatory bodies implement mandatory, structured, continuous professional development programs that incorporate modern clinical and digital health skills, as well as ethical training, to maintain professional excellence among nurses and midwives.

Internal root resorption (IRR) is an uncommon but potentially destructive pathological condition characterized by progressive loss of dentin from within the pulp space as a result of odontoclastic activity. It is frequently asymptomatic and often detected incidentally during radiographic examination, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and timely intervention to prevent structural compromise and tooth loss. This case report describes the successful nonsurgical management of a non-perforating internal root resorption lesion in a mandibular first molar. A 32-year-old male patient presented with pain in the lower left posterior region, and radiographic evaluation revealed a well-defined radiolucent defect in the cervical third of the distal root, consistent with internal root resorption, along with associated periapical pathology. Nonsurgical endodontic therapy was performed, involving thorough chemomechanical debridement, intracanal medication with calcium hydroxide, and obturation using gutta-percha with a bioceramic sealer. The resorptive defect was sealed with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) to achieve an effective three-dimensional seal and promote periradicular healing. Clinical and radiographic follow-up at six and twelve months demonstrated resolution of symptoms, healing of periapical lesions, and arrest of the resorptive process. This case highlights the significance of early diagnosis, appropriate case selection, and the use of bioactive materials such as MTA in achieving favorable outcomes in the nonsurgical management of internal root resorption.

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a rare autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system, predominantly affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord. Pediatric cases are uncommon and often underdiagnosed due to heterogeneous clinical and radiological presentations. We report two pediatric cases of NMO with distinct clinical and immunological features. Case 1: A 10-year-old girl presented with a 5-day history of progressive bilateral visual loss and impaired color vision. Ophthalmological examination revealed severe bilateral visual acuity reduction and grade II papilledema. Brain and spinal MRI showed T2 hyperintensity of the optic nerves and chiasm with cervical spinal cord involvement (C2–C7). Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed mild hyperproteinorrachia. Anti-MOG antibodies were positive. The patient was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulins, with significant clinical improvement within 8 days. Case 2: An 8-year-old girl presented with a preceding flu-like illness followed by acute paraplegia, sphincter dysfunction, and bilateral visual impairment. Neurological examination revealed severe motor and sensory deficits consistent with longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis. MRI demonstrated diffuse spinal cord involvement with gadolinium enhancement and normal brain imaging. Laboratory tests showed elevated inflammatory markers and positive antinuclear antibodies. She received high-dose intravenous corticosteroids followed by oral prednisone and azathioprine, with favorable neurological recovery. Pediatric NMO is a rare but severe neuroinflammatory disease with variable clinical and immunological profiles. Early recognition through MRI and antibody testing is essential for prompt treatment. High-dose corticosteroids combined with immunotherapy can lead to favorable visual and neurological outcomes.

Thin reinforced concrete cylindrical shells, commonly used in silos, storage tanks, and offshore platform legs, combine high strength-to-weight ratios with efficient load-bearing capacity. Their slender geometry, however, makes them highly susceptible to buckling, and existing studies on metallic or composite shells inadequately capture the behavior of concrete shells with embedded steel. This study presents a numerical investigation of thin reinforced concrete cylindrical columns under axial compression, focusing on the influence of reinforcement details and column geometry on critical buckling loads. Finite element simulations and parametric eigenvalue analyses were performed using Abaqus to identify buckling modes and evaluate stability. Results show that increasing the longitudinal bar diameter from 10 mm to 16 mm raised the first-mode buckling load from 9.420×10⁷ N to 9.524×10⁷ N, while increasing the number of bars from 8 to 12 increased the load from 9.394×10⁷ N to 9.463×10⁷ N. Column length had the most significant impact: extending from 750 mm to 1000 mm reduced the first-mode load from 9.463×10⁷ N to 6.195×10⁷ N. Eigenvalue analysis revealed classical global buckling modes, with the first mode governing instability. The findings indicate that larger reinforcement and higher bar quantity enhance buckling resistance, with diameter improving axial rigidity and bar number improving circumferential stiffness distribution. Nevertheless, geometric slenderness dominates structural stability, underscoring that reinforcement optimization alone cannot fully counteract buckling risk. These results provide critical guidance for designing thin concrete shells, highlighting the importance of simultaneous control of geometry and reinforcement detailing to prevent structural failure.

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a member of the polyaryletherketone family, has gained increasing attention in dentistry because of its favorable biomechanical properties, low density, radiolucency, chemical stability, and biocompatibility. Compared with metallic materials, PEEK and especially fiber-reinforced PEEK exhibit a lower elastic modulus, which may contribute to more favorable stress distribution in selected implant and prosthetic applications. PEEK has been investigated for dental implants, implant abutments, fixed and removable prostheses, post-core systems, maxillofacial prostheses, periodontal splints, occlusal splints, and orthodontic appliances. However, pure PEEK is biologically inert and has low surface energy, which may limit osseointegration and adhesive bonding. To overcome these limitations, surface treatments such as plasma activation, sulfonation, and hydroxyapatite coating, as well as bulk modifications including ceramic or fiber reinforcement, have been proposed. This review summarizes the current dental applications of PEEK, its main advantages and limitations, and future perspectives for clinical use. Although PEEK is a promising dental biomaterial, most applications still require further long-term clinical validation before routine use can be recommended.

Background: Although male infertility is highly prevalent in sub-Saharan African countries, minimal studies have been undertaken to identify its determinants, factors and root causes. We undertook this study to determine the association between oxidative stress markers and seminal fluid quality parameters among a cohort of Nigerian men attending an infertility clinic at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital in Southern Nigeria. Methods: This comparative cross sectional study involved 90 men attending the infertility clinic at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City. The study consisted of 45 participants with abnormal semen parameters and 45 with normal semen parameters. Oxidative stress markers: superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde levels in semen were assayed in both normal and abnormal semen group using the Adrenalin inhibition method by Misra and Fridovich for Superoxide dismutase and the Thiobarbituric acid assay by Buege and Aust for Malondialdehyde. Data were analysed using univariate, bivariate, and binary logistic regression to test the association between oxidative stress markers and the risk of abnormality in seminal fluid parameters, and Pearson's correlation to assess the direction of association. Results: The mean levels of superoxidase dismutase were higher in the normal group (1.37 u/g ± 0.34) as compared with the abnormal (0.78u/g ± 0.36, p < 0.001). The mean (SD) malondialdehyde level in the control group was (0.59mol/g ± 0.19) and was significantly lower than in the cases (1.38 ± 0.45mol/g, P < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between superoxide dismutase levels and a negative correlation between malondialdehyde levels and sperm concentration, motility and morphology in both cases and controls. However, after adjusting for cofounders in logistic regression, Superoxide dismutase had a statistically significant effect on motility, while Malondialdehyde had a substantial impact on motility and concentration. Conclusion: We conclude that levels of a marker of oxidative stress (Malondialdehyde) are higher in men with poor semen quality. In contrast, levels of the anti-oxidative stress marker (superoxide dismutase) were higher in men with better semen quality. Superoxide dismutase had a significant impact on sperm motility, while Malondialdehyde affected both sperm motility and concentration. We believe these results would serve as an adjunct when evaluating infertile males.

Chrono-dentistry is a new area of study in dentistry that examines the relationship between circadian cycles and periodontal health. Circadian clocks are natural timekeeping mechanisms that synchronise daily cycles with physiological functions. Both the central nervous system and periodontal tissues, such as the gingiva, periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and fibroblasts, express molecular clocks, which include genes like BMAL1(Brain and Muscle Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Nuclear Translocator (ARNT) like protein), PERs (Period genes), Crys (Cryptochrome genes), and DEC1/2 (Differentiated Embryo Chondrocyte 1 and 2). With rhythmic gene expression influencing bone resorption, vascularization, and inflammation, these peripheral clocks regulate crucial processes such as tissue remodelling, wound healing, immunological responses, and cellular proliferation. A person's susceptibility to periodontitis is increased when their circadian cycles are disrupted by shift work, sleep deprivation, or genetic changes. This results in increased tissue degradation, heightened inflammatory mediators (Tumor necrosis factor-α, Interleukin-1β), and decreased salivary antioxidant capacity. CLOCK gene (Circadian Locomotor output Cycles Kaput) downregulation, particularly of BMAL1, enhances pro-inflammatory pathways controlled by NF-κB (Nuclear Factor κB), thereby accelerating bone loss and influencing bone resorption, vascularization, and inflammation. The potential of chronobiology-guided periodontal therapy is highlighted by our growing understanding of the molecular pathways relating circadian rhythm and periodontal disease. Long-term oral health may be supported and treatment outcomes may be enhanced by coordinating therapeutic and preventive measures with the circadian cycle.

The liberation size of Muro iron ore was determined by obtaining iron ore samples from Toto Local Government Area, Nasarawa State. The collected samples were subjected to crushing and grinding to reduce their size. The elemental composition and mineralogical characteristics of the ground sample were then examined via SEM-EDS analysis. Particle size analysis of the homogenised iron ore sample was conducted, and the sieve fractions obtained were chemically analysed with the X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (XRF). The SEM-EDS analysis revealed that iron (Fe) and silicon (Si) were the most predominant elemental constituents with atomic percentages of 38.7% and 51.2%, respectively. The iron-bearing grains are most abundant at grain sizes less than 100µm. The mesh of grind (D80 value) of the iron ore was found to be 276 µm, the actual liberation size of the ore is -1180 + 850 µm, having the highest recovery of iron (Fe) at 44.85%. The 50% intersection, which indicates the economic liberation size of the ore is at -75 + 53 µm. Whenever Muro iron ore is ground in preparation for the concentration process, the economic liberation size of -75 + 53 µm should be adopted to prevent energy wastage through over-grinding and poor recovery due to under-grinding.

Following one of our research lines, we present here a new English translation of the Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion. It is the 1932 edition published by Hammer Verlag of Theodor Fritsch. This text claims to present is a plan by Jewry to transform the structures and functions of its surroundings in order to achieve dominion over goyim. To understand how something resembling a coordination among the various Jewish groups throughout the world was possible, given the limited mechanisms of worldwide communication that existed until the end of the 19th century, we employed the concept of the pack/herd. Jewry history is analyzed in these terms, specially the moneylenders. The final evolution of the Jewish protective pack schema transcends mere individual protection to become the invisible architecture that determines what an entire society thinks, sees, and decides. The genocide in Gaza and the treacherous attacks against the Islamic Republic of Iran by the Israel–USA duo have generated an immense volume of visual expressions demonstrating that the official narrative has ceased to be credible and will never regain its credibility. This is another evident proof of the Jewish colonization of the USA. It is strongly suggested that all leaders must abide by the following rule: We come from the people; we stand and march with the people; the people are at the beginning and the end of our struggle and our work. Those who do not are mere shameless parasites and bloodsuckers.

Children's rights are a global phenomenon that consistently involves gendered discourses focused on education, equality, and health rights. However, there is a preference for attention to be given to the rights of the girl child. This preference stems from clear cultural, religious, and social factors that naturally place the girl child in a vulnerable position that a boy child is not typically exposed to. While there are international, regional, and national laws in place to protect the rights of the girl child, the harmful practice of child, early, and forced marriage (CEFM) still persists in certain regions of Nigerian society. This practice subjects the girl child to mental and emotional anguish, ultimately depriving her of opportunities such as education, career advancement, and political aspirations. The purpose of this paper is to propose a method by which issues related to CEFM can be promptly reported and effectively addressed through an online dispute resolution mechanism (ODR). To achieve this goal, there is an urgent need for a legislative review of current laws on alternative dispute resolution and the establishment of a digital platform where each CEFM issues can be reported, addressed and resolved.

Background: The transmission rates of Poliomyelitis are nearing historic lows. 2026 will prove to be a defining year in public health history where the disease may either get eradicated or continue simmering as periodic outbreaks. The goal of achieving a ‘Polio-Free World’ appears near, thanks to decades of hard work, global collaboration, unprecedented funding and, certainly, the power of vaccines. Unfortunately, polio is proving to be a tenacious opponent. The challenges in polio eradication increase manifold, 2026 onwards, due to current geo-political conflicts and health funding cuts. Text: Poliomyelitis is an exclusive human disease caused by polio virus, belonging to the Picornaviridae family. The primary mode of transmission is through the faeco-oral route. Around 95% of cases are asymptomatic and about 1% cases present as aseptic meningitis. Paralytic poliomyelitis, which is seen in less than 1% of patients presents as excruciating episodes of pain in back and lower limbs and can present as Spinal polio, Bulbar polio or Bulbospinal polio which is a combination of bulbar and spinal paralysis and is most severe. The ratio of inapparent to paralytic infections could be as high as 1000 to 1 in children and 75 to 1 in adults, depending on the polio virus type and the social conditions. The microbiology of the virus has been studied in detail and the intricacies of its interaction with the human host are being decoded effectively. The innumerable milestones achieved till date have helped in keeping the morale to end polio, high. Nonetheless, many questions still persist and need to be answered. In the mid-20th century, the efforts to combat the polio epidemic, succeeded through introduction of vaccines. Over 3 billion children have been immunized against polio and 20 million people are walking today, who otherwise would have been paralyzed. Along with the goal of eradicating wild polio virus [WPV], circulating Vaccine-Derived Polio virus [cVDPV] outbreaks are proving to be formidable to control. In 2022, closely related strains of polio virus were detected in New York State County and London boroughs. This constituted the first encounter with polio virus in the United States and United Kingdom for a generation, people and public health officers alike! The potential of a possible resurgence of polio cases, like in the past, concerns health scientists. To end polio in the face of challenges, new tactics and novel innovative tools are being deployed. Will this be sufficient in the current ever-changing political scenario? Conclusion: The Polio Oversight Board [POB] of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative [GPEI] launched its eradication strategy in year 2022. The target was polio eradication up to 2026. After critical analysis, expert consultations and revisions in budget, the timeline has been extended to 2029. Political instability, humanitarian crisis and most importantly, global health funding cuts are threatening the progress made. Year 2026 will prove to be a crucial year in this fight to the finish. This article intends to summarize the microbiology and complex pathogenesis of poliomyelitis, epidemiology of the disease through various timelines, the major campaigns organized globally, their achievements, resurgence of poliomyelitis amidst geo-political conflicts and global health funding cuts. This article makes an attempt to understand the practical implications for health and social scientists as they struggle to learn from the past and search for useful heuristic in an attempt to save our children from disability and eradicate poliomyelitis.