The ability of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) for effective binding to multiple target microbes has drawn lots of attention as an alternative to antibodies for detecting whole bacteria. We investigated pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) detection by applying a microfluidic based biosensing device embedded with AMP-labeled beads. According to a new channel design, our device is reusable by the repeated operation of detection and regeneration modes, and the binding rate is more enhanced due to even distribution of the bacterial suspension inside the chamber by implementing influx side channels. We observed higher binding affinity of pathogenic E. coli O157:H7 for AMP-labeled beads than nonpathogenic E. coli DH5α, and the fluorescence intensity of pathogenic E. coli was about 3.4 times higher than the nonpathogenic one. The flow rate of bacterial suspension should be applied above a certain level for stronger binding and rapid detection by attaining a saturation level of detection within a short time of less than 20 min. A possible improvement in the limit of detection in the level of 10 cells per mL for E. coli O157:H7 implies that the AMP-labeled beads have high potential for the sensitive detection of pathogenic E. coli at an appropriate flow rate.
Lifelong learning is becoming part of the philosophy of professional education. Continuing medical education is the responsibility of all personnel who are responsible for the delivery of components of the health care delivery system. Continuing education is becoming increasingly obvious for medical universities, hospitals, and health care providers. Pharmacists who practice in a community pharmacy and hospital, and who are participating in residency recognize that the traditional role of the pharmacist is changing. Over the last decades, a host of new services have been identified as a function of the pharmacist [1]. A review of these services revealed a personal commitment to continuing education. It is the absolute need to develop a level of competence that will improve patient care. In Libya, pharmacists working in the community practice setting are pharmacists with a diploma of pharmacy or with a Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D). The main objective is that the graduates possess the knowledge and skills needed to perform optimally to man the pharmaceutical services [1, 2]. Patient's expectations from pharmacists are that the medicine should be effective, safe and affordable. Other expectations from Libyan pharmacists would be to dispense the drugs according to the rules with the right advice on how and when the medicines should be used, and what to do in the case of adverse drug reactions, and the provision of advice on common illnesses. Nevertheless, it is an undeniable fact that the pharmacist has failed to provide all these patient-oriented services [3]. It should be noted that the quality of pharmacy education and training can be improved through certain processes of accreditation.
Mediterranean journal of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences
Hyperoxaluria is a metabolic disorder responsible for calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis. The study was conducted on glass slides to observe the growth patterns of urinary calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals and their inhibition by 5, 10, 15 and 20 % infusion of Macrotyloma uniflorum seeds. For this purpose, a drop of gel medium (sodium metasilicate of 1.06 specific gravity and 3M acetic acid solution) at pH 5.02 - 5.17 was placed in the middle of a glass slide and converted into a gel. A 1 M oxalic acid drop was dropped to the left, and 1 M calcium chloride and magnesium acetate (1:1) solution was dropped to the right side of the properly formed gel. The glass slide was observed under a microscope till it was completely dried. In the case of the crystal inhibition study, a drop of M. uniflorum infusion was also added on the right side just after adding calcium chloride and magnesium acetate solution. The results without infusion showed detailed morphology and aggregation patterns of observed crystals such as donut, dumbbell, needles, platy, prismatic, rosette, round edges, X-shape crystals, loose and compact aggregates. All infusions of M. uniflorum affected the crystals, forming defective crystals. 5 % infusion inhibited crystals of all morphologies except donuts, X-shaped crystals, donuts, platy crystals and rosettes. Defected rosettes were observed in 10 % infusion, which was reduced gradually in the crowd by 15 and 20 %, respectively. From this study, it can be concluded that M. uniflorum seeds infusion is effective against calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis.
The wet coating of anhydrous borax powders with stearic acid (SA) to reverse their inherent hydrophilic surface properties was investigated. The coating procedure was based on the results from a previous study that revealed that the stearic acid solution (2 wt. % SA) mixed for 60 minute at 750 rpm on the magnetic stirrer was sufficient for the surface modification of anhydrous borax. For the experiments, stearic acid powders were first dissolved in water at 80 °C. The mixture obtained by adding anhydrous borax powders to this solution was vigorously mixed on a magnetic stirrer to initiation and completion the surface modification. Each of these solutions was then filtered using a filter paper to separate the undissolved particles, and the residue on paper was dried at 50 °C for 48 h until constant weighing was obtained. Wettability has been accepted as a key parameter for success in wet coating treatment. This parameter gained via the experimental characterization technique was used for an evaluation of the powder properties. The degree of wettability of anhydrous borax powders was measured and compared both after their surfaces were coated with stearic acid and after they were treated with water for a certain period of time in an aqueous environment. The stearic acid coating made the powder hydrophobic and this property was highly preserved after washing.
In an era where technology prevails, entrepreneurs as well as marketers see the need to keep up with the fast pace of change or risk being outdated. Gone are the days when a pure-bricks business model will thrive well in current market scenario. It is practically impossible to design a marketing strategy without considering social networks. Social media had become really important gradient in today’s marketing mix in general and in promotion mix in particular. Adapting some form of marketing online through social media is a key node for all businesses, especially in an industry where trends constantly change such as fashion and handicrafts. The paper carries out empirical research to understand the effectiveness of social media as a marketing tool and an effort has been made to analyze the extent social media helps consumers in buying decision making. In addition strategies have been suggested for maximizing the effectiveness. Various statistical tests have been applied to support the research hypothesis.
In the world of yoga there are ―Eight limbs path‖ which helps in different aspects like coordination of body and mind and helps to create positivity of mind and help the body healthy and fit by which the functioning of the body improves. In today‘s modern life various type of disease and deformity takes place most of the things takes place due to unbalanced food, & other. The mind is always wondering and being rebellious, never focusing on the moment. It is the mind job to think, it is relentlessly interpreting everything. That is seen, perceived and experienced and this pattern of habit goes through change to behavior and attitude. Many people who practice yoga do so to maintain their health and well-being, improve physical fitness, relieve stress, and enhance quality of life. In addition, they may be addressing specific health conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, arthritis, and anxiety. Basically yoga has been more effective than control and waitlist control conditions, although not always more effective than treatment comparison groups such as other forms of exercise. More randomized controlled studies are needed in which yoga is compared to active exercise groups. Having established the physical and mental health benefits of yoga makes it ethically questionable to assign participants to inactive control groups. Shorter sessions should be investigated for cost-effectiveness and for daily practice.
The need for renewable energy sources in addressing global energy demands is growing, especially in Nigeria where electricity demand often exceeds supply. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have become a viable solution, with federal universities in Nigeria, as major electricity consumers, recognizing their potential. However, determining the right size of PV systems for individual faculties within these universities is a complex task. This study attempted to simplify this process by introducing an innovative approach to size PV systems in these faculties. The research method used the Extended Kalman Artificial Neural Network (EKF-ANN) and the Crow Search Algorithm (CSA) to enhance the accuracy of PV system sizing. Data was collected on the study site, load demand, weather conditions, system components, and operational control and systems models to establish sizing criteria. The study focused on the optimal size of a solar PV system at the Faculty of Law building, University of Port-Harcourt, and how to improve its accuracy. The results showed that using global solar insolation parameters, EKF-ANN predicted values for global temperature, flock size, and maximal iteration. This optimized system could generate surplus power for effective grid supply. The study found that the optimal size of the series-connected panels for the Faculty of Law building was 96, 83, 73, and 65 units, with corresponding insolation values ranging from 3.737 to 4.368 kW/m2. It was concluded that the combination of CSA and EKF-ANN in solar PV sizing is suitable for achieving optimal outcomes for energy storage and grid supply. Nonetheless, the study recommended additional investigation into real-time and grid-connected solutions to enhance the proposed approach's effectiveness.
A mobile adhoc network is a Self-configuring network of mobile routers connected by wireless links. In the mobile adhoc network, each and every device moves independently in any direction so that there are frequent changes in the links. It is essential to learn the position of the neighbors because there is increase in location-aware services. So, there is a chance that the malicious nodes are easily abused the process. The significant problem in mobile networks is correctness of node locations and also it is primarily challenging in the presence of adversaries. So, the neighbor position verification protocol is used to a fully distributed, a lightweight NPV procedure which allows each node to obtain the locations advertised by its neighbors and asses their truthfulness. Further to extend neighbor position verification protocols in the proactive model that need to each node constantly verify the position of its neighbors. So, we introduce a technique called secure link state updating which provides secure proactive topology discovery that is multiply useful for the network operation. This technique is vigorous against individual attackers, it is capable to adjust its capacity between local and network-wide topology discovery, and also operating in networks of frequently changing topology and membership nodes. Experimental results show that the proposed system is high efficiency in terms of security when compared to the existing system.
There has been an increasing awareness about the importance of herbal plants in therapeutic uses which are safe, efficient and induce little side effects This study was based on the evaluation of antibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts of the leaves of Oleaeuropaea (Olive tree) and Ficuscarica (Fig tree), alone and in combination, against enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) strain using well diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentration. The results revealed that the Oleaeuropaea leave extract is more potent than the Ficuscarica leave extract against E. faecalis, as the zone of inhibition was 23 mm and 3 mm, respectively. By mixing both extracts, the results showed a slight synergistic effect, as the zones of inhibition were 20 mm, 24 mm, 24 mm and 25 mm for 1:1, 1:3, 1:6 and 1:9 ratios of the Oleaeuropaea leave and the Ficuscarica leave extracts, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration for E. faecalis growth was 200 mg/ml for the Oleaeuropaea leave alone, Ficuscarica and mixed with Ficuscarica. The present findings conclude a potent antibacterial activity of the olive and fig leave, and, their potential as a source of drug in the treatment of E. faecalis infections is suggested.
Mediterranean journal of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences
Object: The main purpose of the research is to develop modern tools for insurance management in the global economic crisis, to make an objective assessment based on a critical analysis of existing ones, to identify situations that could lead to international economic, social, and natural threats. It is made some recommendations for the development of insurance calculations for the republic of Uzbekistan. Methods: Methods for reforming modern calculation of insurance tariffication are recommended by means of theories of probabilities, statistical and mathematical analysis, and foreign advanced countries practical types of summarizing. Findings: While making an analysis, it has found that modern tools for the insurance management of Uzbekistan are needed. We proved this by the results of the modern calculation of insurance. For the development of the insurance market of Uzbekistan, it should be analyzed by means of penetration and density of insurance premiums, making the deepest calculation of risks of the economy of Uzbekistan, and using the main principles and formulas of the theory of probability. Conclusions: In the end, we can take some results, and give some recommendations such as using the tools of theories of probabilities can help us find the main risks of economy, it’s powers of influences of the market economy, statistical and mathematical analysis also add some practical, objective results for making under control of any types of insurance risks
The incorporation of lomustine, a hydrophobic anticancer drug into PLGA nanoparticles by interfacial deposition method was optimized. Based on the optimal parameters, it was found that lomustine-PLGA nanoparticles with acceptable properties could be obtained. Optimization of formulation variables to control the size and drug entrapment efficiency of the prepared nanoparticles seems to be based on the same scientific principles as drug-loaded nanoparticles prepared by nanoprecipitation, solvent evaporation method. The process was the most important factor to control the particle size, while both the drug-polymer interaction and the partition of drug in organic and aqueous phases were the crucial factors to govern the drug entrapment efficiency. PLGA concentration at lower level (100 mg), 1:5 organic phase: aqueous ratio, 1%w/v PVA concentration, 3%w/v pluronic F68 achieved smaller particle size. Additionally, L:G ratio of PLGA 75:25, lower volume of organic solvent (1:10 organic phase: aqueous phase), higher initial drug content (10 mg) enhanced the drug entrapment efficiency and maintained lomustine concentration in blood for an extended time period, elevated lomustine concentration in lungs and slowed the elimination of lomustine. The biodistribution profiles of prepared nanoparticles in albino mice showed higher plasma drug concentration for longer period of time, elevated drug concentration in lungs and slow elimination from kidney. No toxic effects of prepared nanoparticles were observed in histopathological examination of lungs and kidney. The systematic investigation reported here promises the development of PLGA nanoparticles loaded with lomustine when tested in Lung Cancer cell line L132 and toxicological/ histopathological studies in albino mice.
All the people who need loan may turn to their local banks, credit unions or peer to peer lenders. Every lending institution has its own advantages and drawbacks. In this scenario credit risk management becomes increasingly important element as the same is concerned with managing the financial debts and safeguarding the interest of the banks. The purpose of credits given by banks is to earn interest and make profits. The important function of credit management is to decide how much credit should be given to the borrower and ensuring compliances with the credit terms of repayment and avoid Non-Performing Assets (NPA) to the banks. Credit risk is the biggest risk the bank faces by the virtue of nature of business, inherits. The ability of commercial banks to formulate and adhere to policies and procedures that promote credit quality and curtail non-performing loans is the means to survive in the stiff competition. Inability to create and build up quality loans and credit worthy customers leads to default risk and bankruptcy as well as hamper the economic growth of the country
Concrete is a material which is used in construction. Weight of concrete plays a major role in the construction industry. If the weight of the concrete is increased, it will pose more structural problems on the later date of construction. It also increases the cost of construction, without any specific benefit. So if lightweight concrete is used, it not only reduces cost of construction, but also not poses any structural problems unnecessarily. Light weight concrete also aids workers in smooth handling of materials. In this study, vermiculite in the form of exfoliated form is used to replace partially natural sand. By this action dead weight of the structure is reduced. Once the dead weight of structure is reduced, it in turn reduces cost of construction. In this study three mixes were casted with the cement content of 383 kg/m3 in M20 concrete and the water cement ratio of 0.45 is chosen. Vermiculite at 10%, 20% and 30% are choosing to partially replace the natural sand. The Tests conducted on concrete for evaluating mechanical properties include compressive strength and split tensile strength. For evaluating durability properties, tests like acid resistance, sulphate resistance, chlorine penetration and water absorption.
The global endeavor to develop and deploy COVID-19 vaccines has underscored both significant scientific progress and enduring disparities in worldwide access. This analysis examines regional vaccine distribution patterns across World Health Organization (WHO) regions—Africa, the Americas, Eastern Mediterranean, Europe, and Western Pacific—revealing substantial variations in vaccine types and manufacturer contributions. Data indicate that the Americas and Europe demonstrate a broad vaccine portfolio, with prominent contributions from major international pharmaceutical companies alongside regionally developed vaccines. Conversely, African, Eastern Mediterranean, and Western Pacific regions show considerable reliance on vaccines from Asian (notably China and India) and Russian manufacturers, in addition to Western products. This distribution highlights the influence of geographical proximity to manufacturing centers, regional alliances, and local production capabilities (e.g., CIGB and Finlay in the Americas, COVIran Barakat in the Eastern Mediterranean, and various Chinese products in the Western Pacific) on vaccine availability. Predominant vaccines by country count include Pfizer-BioNTech's Comirnaty, AstraZeneca's Vaxzevria, Janssen's Ad26.COV2-S, Moderna's Spikevax, Beijing CNBG's BBIBP-CorV, and SII's Covishield. The observed regional variations in vaccine types and supply chains carry implications for comparative effectiveness research, the understanding of differential immune responses, and the evaluation of pandemic control strategies. Furthermore, inconsistencies in global data reporting and product nomenclature present challenges for comprehensive analysis. The findings emphasize the importance of diversified supply chains, the growing role of regional manufacturing in enhancing global health security, and the need for standardized global data for a more profound understanding of vaccine equity and efficacy to inform future pandemic responses.
This research work aimed to evaluate the effects of thermal processing treatments on the nutrient anti-nutrient composition of Afzelia africana (Akparata) flour. The seeds were sorted, cleaned and processed into boiled, roasted and autoclaved lima bean flours. The flours obtained were analysed for proximate, vitamin and anti-nutrient contents using standard methods. The proximate composition of the samples revealed that the flours had a range of moisture, 8.23-12.40%, crude protein, 15.98-25.95%, fat, 21.00-28.21%, ash, 1.34-2.89%, crude fibre, 2.00-3.45%, carbohydrate, 38.68-49.33%, and energy 424.13 – 482.37kJ/100g, respectively. The vitamin contents of the flours showed that the samples contained 0.02±0.00 - 0.08±0.00mg/100g riboflavin, 0.78 - 1.98 mg/100g niacin, 0.40 - 0.89 mg/100g thiamine, 120.40-234.70mg/100g vitamin A, 72.11-134.19mg/100g ascorbic acid, 09.67-17.65mg/100g vitamin E, 310.60-430.60mg/100g B6, 3.47-5.87mg/100g B12, respectively. The result of the anti-nutrient composition of the flours also showed that the phytate, tannin, oxalate, cyanogenic glycosides, protease inhibitors, haemagglutinins inhibitors, levels of the samples were significantly (p<0.05) reduced by roasting and boiling treatments compared to the sample processed by autoclaving. In addition, the saponin content of the flours was relatively higher in boiled sample than in roasted and autoclaved flours. However, the nutrient and anti-nutrient contents of the flours observed that the flours have the potentials to be used as nutritional supplements in the preparation of a variety of food products than the raw sample.
Rhizosphere actinomycetes are promising biocontrol agents for use in agriculture and have been isolated from various plant species. In the present investigation, actinomycetes were isolated from rhizospheric soil of maize to test antagonistic activity against Fusarium verticillioides and fungal strain (T. viride) were procured from National fungal culture collection of India (NFCCI), T. harzianum and A. niger were isolated from soil to test their antagonistic effects against Fusarium verticillioides. In the present study bio-control dual inoculum method were followed to evaluate the bacterial and fungal strains against the pathogen and reveals that Single Bacterial Inoculum (SBI) of S. cinereus shows more effective in controlling the growth of Fusarium verticillioides (28 mm in treated plate) compare to control (45 mm fungal growth). But in Dual Bacterial Inoculum (DBI), the combination of S. albosporous and S. cinereus shows more effective (08 mm fungal growth in treated plate) compare to control (52 mm fungal growth). Similarly, in Single Fungal Inoculum (SFI), T. harzianum were more effective (18.8 mm fungal growth) and in Dual Fungal Inoculum (DFI), T. viridae and T. harzianum act as a more effective (2.5 mm fungal growth) against Fusarium verticillioides compare to controls (60 mm and 52 mm fungal growth respectively). Overall interpretation of the present work reveals that DBI and DFI were more effective than SBI and SFI against Fusarium verticillioides.
Education in India is losing its relevance. This seems much more applicable to the situation in the present day of legal education. This essay aims to focus on two aspects of legal education. Whilst, on one hand, it aims to provide details of the existing legal education system on the other, it aims to drive more attention to the various improvements and developments that are needed. The essay firstly shall describe the existing legal education system. It shall analyze and assess the curricula that are available for the various undergraduate law degrees available in India. It aims to provide an understanding of the perceived distinctions between the three-year law degree and the five-year law degree. As a second aspect, the essay aims to explore options to further the quality of legal education in India by considering examples of various law schools or colleges of law across the world that have consistently proven themselves as a cut-above not legal education and research in their global scale. Also, from the learnings of the gaps in the curricula of the law degrees as discussed previously, the essay shall provide suggestions on the various plausible collaborations with foreign law schools and universities for the benefit of the Indian law schools and colleges of law. As a third and final aspect, as a measure to curb fake or bogus law schools or colleges of law within India and to enhance the employability of law graduates in India at par with those across the globe, the essay aims to provide suggestions applicable for the present-day legal education scenario.
India’s economic system has undergone significant changes in recent years reflecting globalization and changes in national policies. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of India’s economic growth, focusing on imports and exports. The study explores the key drivers of economic expansion, including trade liberalization, trade agreements, and technological advancement. It also explores the impact of international trade and geopolitical events on business models. It assesses the role of policy measures such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the Make in India initiative, and various free trade agreements in generating economic benefits. The paper also assesses the trade balance and its impact on India’s economic stability and growth. The paper concludes with recommendations for improving the market, including diversifying entrepreneurs, investing in infrastructure, and strengthening the domestic economy. The review provides insights to policymakers, businesses, and academics who want to understand and harness India’s economic potential in the global economy
One of the most important challenges for a company is to manage its supply chain efficiently. One way to do this is to control and minimize its various logistics costs together to achieve an overall optimization of its supply network. One such system that integrates two of the most important logistics activities, namely inventory holding and transportation, is known as the inventory routing problem. Our replenishment network consists of a supplier that uses a single vehicle to distribute a single type of item during each period to a set of customers with independent and deterministic demand. The objectives considered are the management of supplier and customer inventories, the assignment of customers to replenishment periods, the determination of optimal delivery quantities to avoid customer stock-outs, the design and optimization of routes. A genetic algorithm (GA) is developed to solve our IRP. Different crossover structures are proposed and tested in two sets of reference instances. A comparison of the performance of different crossover structures was established. Then, it was used to find the most appropriate crossover structure that provides better results in a minor computation time. The obtained results prove the competitiveness of GAs compared to literature approaches, demonstrate the performance of our approach to best solve large scale instances and provide better solution quality in fast execution time.
Identifying the targets for improving antimicrobial prescription and development of antimicrobial stewardship interventions can better serve to combat the situation of antimicrobial resistance. The primary objective was to determine the prevalence of antimicrobial use at tertiary care teaching hospital with both acute and long-term care patients. A periodical point prevalence survey was done in a tertiary care hospital of South India during 2019 using manual and webbased GLOBAL-PPS tool. Of 945 patients eligible for the study, 645 (69.5 %) received at least one antibiotic, with highest rates in the adult surgical ward and pediatrics. Of 645 therapeutic antibiotic prescriptions, 58.6% prescriptions have an infectious indication of them, 62.6% are community-acquired infections. Third-generation cephalosporins were the most prescribed antibiotics. The prevalence of antibiotic use is very high, and our study evidence that the country needs a robust antimicrobial stewardship intervention program.