N-Containing Hybrid Composites Coatings for Enhanced Fire-Retardant Properties of Cotton Fabric Using One-Pot Sol-Gel Process.

In this report, a unique methodology/process steps were followed using Sol-gel-based concept to deposit thin flame-retardant coatings on cotton fabric. Surface microstructure and compositional analysis of the coated cotton were carried out using scanning electronic microscope (SEM), which explored significant coverage of the fabric. The obtained samples were further analyzed through rupturing mechanism test and color check. Compositional investigation of the coated samples was carried through Attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and energy-dispersive X-rays spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. Thermal analyses were carried out through Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Vertical flame tests (VFT), which suggested higher resistance of the coatings obtained for 5 h and zero heat-treatment time on the cotton fabric. A 28.86% char residue was obtained for the same sample (ET-5h-RT) coupled with higher degradation temperature and excellent combustion properties.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging findings in pregnancy related neurological complications.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the various neurological complications that occur in pregnancy and puerperium using magnetic resonance imaging as the diagnostic tool. METHODS: The prospective study was conducted at the Radiology Department of Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan, from June 2018 to June 2019, and comprised pregnant and puerperium patients presenting with neurological symptoms who were referred for magnetic resonance imaging. Clinical records of the patients were reviewed for risk factors and neurological symptomatology. Imaging was done using a 1.5Tesla machine. Departmental routine imaging protocols for magnetic resonance imaging brain and magnetic resonance venography were used. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. RESULTS: There were 60 pregnant women with a mean age of 25.85±5.1 years (range: 17-40 years). Magnetic resonance imaging showed posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in 20(33.3%) patients and haemorrhagic infarct in 18(30%), while 9(15%) were found to be normal. Magnetic resonance venography exhibited dural sinus thrombosis in 19(31.7%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: Magnetic resonance imaging was found to play a vital role in early diagnosis of pregnancy-related neurological complications.

Use Of Radiological Diagnostic Modalities In Tertiary Care Hospital - How Do The Clinicians Decide About Type Of Modality And Clinician Perception Regarding Hazards Associated With Radiological Imaging Modalities?

BACKGROUND: In the past few decades there is rapid advancement in technology and hence tremendous innovations in diagnostic imaging. This has increased our ability to diagnose illness and monitor response to treatment in a manner which was not previously possible. As compared to previous times, there is also more easy availability of these diagnostic imaging modalities in our hospitals. Therefore, easy and frequent availability harbour the risk of injudicious use of these tests as well. This study is conducted to know the views of consultants about it. METHODS: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in Ayub Medical Institute MTI from March 2021 to July 2021. The data was collected through a self-administered anonymous questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 250 clinicians participated in the study with 54% males. Majority of them (n=140) 56% answered that consultants on round and on duty in OPD decide special radiological investigations for the patients. Most of them (90%, n=225) were aware of radiation hazards in CT, X-rays and fluoroscopy . CONCLUSION: The referring physicians working at MTI ATH Abbottabad have enough basic knowledge regarding the practice of radiological modalities but were unaware of specific health hazards and radiation doses to the patients associated with the use of these imaging modalities.

Integration of radiology in the modular system at the undergraduate level.

BACKGROUND: Integration of Radiology is challenging because in the traditional system it is introduced with a clinical subject while in an integrated curriculum, vertical integration of Radiology is done with anatomy in the first year and with pathology, forensic medicine, ophthalmology, ENT, gynaecology surgery, and medicine till the final year. This study was done with the purpose to evaluate Radiology teaching in an integrated curriculum in undergraduate students of Azad Jammu Kashmir Medical College/Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zaid Hospital Muzaffarabad. METHODS: This study was done to determine student's perceptions regarding Radiology teaching at Azad Jammu Kashmir Medical College (AJKMC), starting from the foundation module of the first year till the final year. It was a descriptive cross-sectional type conducted in the Radiology department of AJKMC. The study duration was six months. Students of final year and recent graduates were included in the study. All the information was collected on pro forma. Pro forma included 11 structured, close-ended, quantitative types of questions. Five points Likert scale was given starting from strongly agree to strongly disagree. Data was analysed by descriptive statistics. RESULTS: In 100 students who gave feedback, the age range was from 23 to 26 year. Male students were 32 (32%) and female 68(68 %). 70% of students agreed and 14% strongly agreed for the integration of Radiology at the undergraduate level. Six percent students disagreed with the integration of radiology at the undergraduate level. CONCLUSION: Integration of Radiology in a modular system for undergraduate students at AJKMC was supported by the majority of participants.