Applying natural fibre-reinforced polymer composites for automobile body parts has not gained much attention in Nigeria. Natural fibres appear to be a good alternative to non-biodegradable synthetic fibres. This work aimed to develop natural fibres obtained from plantain pseudo-stem for reinforcement with polyester composites for automobile bumper fascia application. The plantain fibres were manually extracted and treated using the mercerization process. Compressive and impact tests were carried out on the laminates which were prepared according to the ASTM D695 and ASTM D256 standards, respectively. The plantain fibre-reinforced composite automobile bumper was then constructed using the hand lay-up technique. Laminates with volume fractions 0.3 and 0.4 are produced and analysed for impact and compression tests. From the experimental results, it was observed that the Impact strength for a volume fraction 0.3 and 0.4 was 12.22 kJ/m2 and 13.83 kJ/m2, respectively and compressive strength for a volume fraction 0.3 and 0.4 was 65.3x103 kN/mm2 and 67.4x103 kN/mm2, respectively. The study shows that plantain fibre-reinforced polyester composites could be an alternate candidate for automotive bumper fascia.

Annickia affinis is a medicinal plant traditionally used in Africa against several diseases including peptic ulcers. We conducted this study to evaluate the antiulcer and gastroprotective activities of the ethanolic extract of the stem bark of this plant. The antiulcer activity was evaluated on Wistar rats using 95% ethanol and then administering to them as treatment solutions, the ethanolic extract of the stem bark of the plant and other referenced anti-ulcer drugs over periods of 7 and 14 days. The gastroprotective activity was carried out following the opposite path, the different batches of rats first received one of the treating solutions and an hour later, the ulcer was induced on them and they were finally sacrificed an hour after administring the ulcerogenic solution for the macroscopic and microscopic analysis of their stomachs. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, reducing sugars, coumarins, anthocyanins, anthraquinones. UPLC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 16 compounds, notably berberine, berberrubine, canadine, palmatine, jatrorrhizine, columbamine, pseudocolumbamine, 7,8-dihydro-8-hydroxypalmatine, atherosperminine, argentinine, 7-hydroxydehydronuciferine, 7-hydroxydehydronornucierine, Caryophyllene oxide, 1,5-epoxysalvial-4(14)-ene, humulene epoxide II and spathalenol. The administration of the ethanolic extract of the stem bark of Annickia affinis at doses of 2000 mg/kg and 5000 mg/kg showed no acute toxicity. The results obtained from the evaluation of pharmacological activities revealed that the ethanolic extract of the stem bark of Annickia affinis would have antiulcer and gastroprotective properties comparable to omeprazole and sucralfate at the dose of 150 mg/kg. It appears from this study that the stem bark Annickia affinis could be used both in the prevention and in the treatment of gastric ulcers which would justify its use in the traditional pharmacopoeia.

During the period between 1933 and 1945 the racial theory of National Socialism underwent enormous variations. It is possible to observe four different phases, some of which overlap in time. The first of these is based on the existence of a superior 'Aryan' race and defined by Hitler in Mein Kampf. This second stage, which ended around 1934, was characterized by the uncritical acceptance of Hans Günther's theses. Günther idea is centered on the Nordic breed: a tall, long-legged, thin, with average height, among males, about 1.74 m. Hair color is blonde. The stream of thought emanating from Hans Günther is known as Nordicism. The fact that about 95% of the German population, as well as almost the entire top leadership of the NSDAP, qualified as 'bastards-à-la-Günther', the Party was unable to accept such a conclusion. This was the generator of the third stage of NS racial theory. This phase is defined by an entire rejection of Günther's Nordicism. In Nuremberg, on the Day of the Party of 1933, Hitler declared: 'We do not conclude from the physical type of a man his ability, but from his achievements his race’. The fourth stage of the NS racial theory is fully demonstrated when the Waffen SS begins to welcome non-Nordic elements into its ranks. Since this fourth stage of National Socialist Racial Theory was interrupted in 1945, it is very difficult to predict what its end would have been.

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is the leading form of mosquito borne viral encephalitis in Asia, with about 100,000 annual cases in which children are more dominant. The causative agent of JE is Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) which is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes particularly Culex Tritaeniorhynchus. Mostly JE infections in humans are asymptomatic while severe JEV infection occurred in only few cases characterized by high grade fever, headache, seizures and unusual behavior, lesion and paralysis. The specific treatment of JEV is not available so far but the supportive care is effective. Many antiviral drugs have been investigated, but none of these have shown to improve the effect of JE except minocycline. The objective of gathering information and performing review is to asses JEV emergence possibility in Pakistan and to define some mitigation measure. In this review, the current knowledge of the prevalence and the pathogenesis of the JEV have been summarized. Furthermore, the current scenario of JEV, challenges and possible way forward in Pakistan has been discussed.

Abū Bakr Moḥammad Ibn Zakriyā Al-Rāzī, a distinguished physician of the 9th–10th centuries, made ground-breaking contributions that significantly shaped the discipline of paediatrics and advanced the knowledge and treatment of infectious diseases. His scholarly works, which include the renowned texts Kitāb al-Hāwi and Kitāb al-Judri wa al-Hasbā, underscore the critical importance of preventive health measures, stringent hygiene practices, and the necessity of implementing age-appropriate treatments tailored specifically for children. Al-Rāzī made a significant distinction between the illnesses that affect children and those that are prevalent in adults, advocating for a therapeutic approach that is uniquely tailored to the specific health needs of the younger population. His ground-breaking monograph, titled Kitāb al-Tibb al-Atfāl, systematically addressed the various aspects of paediatric care, offering insights that were revolutionary for his time. Furthermore, Al-Rāzī's meticulous and detailed descriptions of diseases such as smallpox and measles enhanced the precision of diagnostics, thereby improving the understanding of these conditions and their management. His insightful contributions laid the essential foundations for the evolution of modern paediatrics as well as for the contemporary approach to infectious disease management, influencing several generations of medical practitioners and researchers in subsequent eras.

Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Automation are shifting the human workforce to new roles, creating the need for new skills. This research aimed to understand the expectations of companies in Chihuahua, Mexico, regarding the skills required for the future of work and compare them with the results presented by the World Economic Forum in its 2018 Future of Jobs Report. A survey was conducted among 359 companies on this topic. The main findings reveal a 60% match between the top 10 skill groups prioritized globally and locally. However, skills such as "Technology Design and Programming," "Emotional Intelligence," "Reasoning, Problem-Solving, and Ideation," and "System Analysis and Evaluation" are considered crucial globally but not locally.

Background: Endometrial cancer (EC) is a leading gynecological malignancy worldwide, with rising incidence in developing countries. Prognostic factors play a critical role in guiding management, especially in resource-limited settings where molecular testing is not routinely available. Aim of the study: To evaluate clinicopathological prognostic factors influencing recurrence in patients with endometrial cancer treated at a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on 45 histologically confirmed EC patients who underwent hysterectomy-based surgery. Demographic, clinical, pathological, and treatment-related data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Univariate analysis was performed with Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test, and multivariate Cox regression was used to determine independent predictors of recurrence. Hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported, and a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result: The mean age was 54.9±12.4 years; 55.6% were postmenopausal. Most patients presented with stage I disease (77.8%). Significant independent predictors of recurrence included tumor grade 3 (HR 2.75; p=0.039), myometrial invasion ≥50% (HR 3.80; p=0.023), LVSI presence (HR 4.25; p=0.007), advanced FIGO stage III–IV (HR 5.67; p=0.004), and lymph node positivity (HR 3.92; p=0.032). Surgical approach and adjuvant therapy were not significantly associated with recurrence. Conclusion: Advanced stage, high tumor grade, deep myometrial invasion, LVSI, and lymph node involvement are key prognostic factors for recurrence in EC. In low-resource settings, reliance on these clinicopathological predictors is essential for risk stratification and optimizing treatment strategies.

This research investigates the empirical linkage between trade openness and poverty in India through a comprehensive three-stage model approach. In first stage descriptive statistics, correlation matrix analysis and unit root tests are used to analyse the characteristics, nature and stationarity of the selected variables. Further, in the study Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) co-integration model to explore both long-run and short-run relationships between trade openness and poverty. Some post estimation test including the Breusch-Godfrey LM test, White heteroskedasticity test, and the Ramsey RESET test in the last stage. The empirical findings of the study show that there is positive correlation between trade openness and poverty (HDI). In the long run, trade openness, foreign direct investment (FDI), and exchange rate have significant impacts on poverty reduction, while inflation rate and GDP per capita exhibit mixed effects. Impact of FDI and Trade Openness (TO) is positive on poverty reduction, while exchange rate, inflation rate, and GDP per capita show varying impact on poverty. The study suggests that policymakers should consider fostering trade openness and addressing other economic factors to effectively reduce poverty in the country.

Wheat is a critical staple crop in Pakistan, contributing significantly to food security and the national economy. However, the adoption of modern sustainable wheat production practices (SWPP) remains low, leading to suboptimal yields and persistent food insecurity. Therefore, this study is conducted to investigate the socio-economic factors influencing the adoption of sustainable wheat production practices among smallholder farmers in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Using a multistage sampling technique, data were collected from 268 farm households in the Charsadda district. Descriptive statistics and econometric models were employed to analyze the data, with an adoption index constructed to measure the extent of SWPP. The results reveal that education, farm size, farming experience, income, and access to extension services are significant determinants of SWPP adoption. Older farmers and those with larger families also showed a propensity to adopt SWPP, though to a lesser extent. The regression model explained 65.1% of the variation in adoption, highlighting the importance of these factors in enhancing wheat productivity. Barriers to adoption include limited access to credit, inadequate extension services, and low education levels. The study concludes that targeted interventions are needed to promote the adoption of SWPP. Recommendations include enhancing farmer education and training, strengthening extension services, improving access to credit, and implementing policies that support SWPP.

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a significant global health burden, exacerbated by the rise in multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections. This study evaluated the antibacterial effects of Sansevieria zeylanica (S. zeylanica) leaf and root extracts against MDR Proteus mirabilis isolated from diabetic patients with DFUs at a teaching hospital in Nigeria. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of clinical isolates of MDR P. mirabilis was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The antibacterial activity of S. zeylanica extracts was evaluated using the agar well diffusion method. Additionally, the synergistic/antagonistic effect of the extracts with Ofloxacin was assessed. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed high resistance to conventional antibiotics, with 61.5% of isolates identified as MDR. Methanolic extracts of S. zeylanica demonstrated moderate antibacterial activity, with root extracts exhibiting greater inhibition zones (10-17 mm) compared to leaf extracts (8-13 mm). However, co-administration with Ofloxacin revealed an antagonistic effect. These findings suggest that S. zeylanica root extracts hold promise as an alternative therapeutic agent for DFU management. Further research is needed to optimize extract formulations and explore their clinical applications.

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is one of the most common non-communicable illnesses, having the potential to be fatal, it is now the third leading cause of death worldwide. Objectives: The aim of our study was to estimate the prevalence of COPD, its associated risk factors, causes and management in Saudi Arabia. Methods: For article selection, the PubMed database and EBSCO Information Services were used. All relevant articles relevant with our topic and other articles were used in our review. Other articles that were not related to this field were excluded. The data was extracted in a specific format that was reviewed by the group members. Conclusion: In Saudi Arabia, the prevalence estimated of COPD is relatively high, moreover it increases by time. High prevalence of smoking and increased age was reported to be the most common effective risk factors of COPD in Saudi population. COPD is now considered a preventable and potentially treatable disease if detected in the early stages. Avoidance of exposure to harmful particles, mainly smoking, can prevent progression to a clinically significant stage of the disease.

Lung cancer is leading cause of mortality worldwide. About 80-85% of lung cancers are nonsmall cell lung carcinomas (NSCLC). The main subtypes of NSCLC are adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinomas. These NSCLC are grouped together as their treatment and prognosis is often similar. Diagnosis depends on symptoms, histopathology and molecular biomarkers. Even treatment in late stages of NSCLC requires appropriate testing with predictive molecular biomarkers as it provides information that is essential for establishing appropriate treatment options for each patient. This review paper provides current molecular biomarkers in NSCLC which are useful in diagnosing as well predicting treatment.

Healthcare technicians play a pivotal role in the modern healthcare system, serving as the backbone of various medical disciplines. This review article explores the multifaceted roles of healthcare technicians across five key areas: radiology, nursing, laboratory services, medical records, and pharmacy. Each section delves into the specific responsibilities, skills, and contributions of technicians in these fields, highlighting their importance in enhancing patient care, ensuring safety, and improving healthcare outcomes. By examining the evolving landscape of healthcare technology and the increasing complexity of patient needs, this article underscores the necessity for ongoing education and collaboration among healthcare technicians and other professionals. Ultimately, the integration of healthcare technicians into multidisciplinary teams is essential for delivering comprehensive and effective patient care.

The study examined crude oil exploration activities and particulate matter pollutants concentration in selected Rivers East and Rivers South-East communities, Rivers State. The study adopted the completely randomized block design (CRBD). Ambient air quality readings were taken in-situ in four (4) stations (two each from each of the communities) using the Aero Qual 500 Series (Gas Monitor), GT 321 Particulate Metre, Automated Global Position System (GPS), and Extech Meteorology Metre, While mean and clustered column chart was used to analyze the data. The study revealed the concentrations of 694 ppm and 613 ppm for CO2 in Bodo and Igwuruta communities respectively which were higher than the WHO daily approved limit of 462 ppm. The study further revealed that the higher concentration of particulate matter pollutants (PMPs) like (NO2 = 0.098 μg/m3, O3 = 0.04 μg/m3, So2 = 0.00 μg/m3, H2S = 0.01 μg/m3, CH4 =0 μg/m3, CO = 0.5 μg/m3, NH3 =0.3 μg/m3, Pm 2.5 = 0.022 μg/m3, Pm 10 = 0.018 μg/m3, temperature = 34.6 oC) obtained at the Bodo artisanal refining sites and that obtained at the Igwuruts flow station were all still within the WHO daily approved limits for the specific PMPs. Also, the excessive concentration of CO2 accentuates the presence of soot that exacerbates the discolouration of vegetation as well as poor air quality, residents’ high susceptibility to skin diseases, cancer and respiratory ailments, intense heat, respiratory complications like cough, carthar, etc. The study recommended amongst others that more trees should be planted to absorb the excess CO2 that accentuates the buildup of soot that damage the built environment; destroy car windshield, roof surfaces, house floors and windows and also, causing health risk of rashes, aging, asthma, bronchitis on the residents around the environs of the Agbada/Igwuruta flow station and Bodo artisanal refining site.

The administration of iodinated contrast media (ICM) is indispensable for modern diagnostic and interventional procedures. However, the subsequent development of acute kidney injury (AKI) represents a significant clinical challenge, associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare expenditure. Historically termed contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), the understanding of this condition has evolved, leading to the more precise term contrast-associated AKI (CA-AKI) to reflect a temporal association rather than assumed causality. The pathophysiology is multifactorial, involving direct tubular cytotoxicity, renal vasoconstriction leading to medullary hypoxia, and oxidative stress. While the risk is low in the general population, it is markedly elevated in patients with pre-existing chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes mellitus, heart failure, and in the context of intra-arterial procedures with high contrast volumes. The prevention of CA-AKI has traditionally been managed in departmental silos, an approach that is often fragmented and unreliable. This review proposes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary framework that integrates the expertise of four key pillars: Radiology, Pharmacy, Anesthesia, and Public Health. Effective prevention begins with a shared foundation of robust risk stratification, leveraging quantitative scoring systems and automated electronic health record (EHR) alerts. The Pharmacy pillar focuses on evidence-based pharmacological and medication management, including standardized hydration protocols, controversial adjunctive therapies like N-acetylcysteine and statins, and a critical "nephrotoxic hold" on high-risk medications. The Radiology pillar centers on procedural optimization through the selection of appropriate contrast agents, strict adherence to the principle of dose minimization guided by dose-to-eGFR ratios, and the use of advanced technologies like automated injectors and ultra-low contrast techniques. The Anesthesia pillar provides intraprocedural hemodynamic stewardship for high-risk patients, maintaining renal perfusion through goal-directed fluid therapy and judicious use of vasopressors. Finally, the Public Health pillar provides the system-level architecture for success, designing and implementing hospital-wide "prevention bundles," fostering interdepartmental communication, promoting patient education, and driving continuous quality improvement through audit and feedback. By synergizing these distinct but complementary roles, healthcare systems can transition from a reactive to a proactive and reliable model of care, significantly reducing the clinical and economic burden of CA-AKI.