Water treatment using aluminum sulphate is a common process in water purification, primarily aimed at removing unwanted microorganisms. These inorganic coagulants are partially hydrolyzed salts, and their dissolution in water is highly pH-dependent. However, residual aluminum remains a concern as it often exceeds WHO standards. This study investigates the residual aluminum levels in treated water from a treatment plant, which were found to be 210 μg/L for an average dose of 40 mg/L of aluminum sulphate, surpassing the WHO's recommended maximum of 200 μg/L. Laboratory trials were conducted with flocculators to mimic treatment plant conditions, revealing a residual aluminum level of 182 mg/L, 13.33% less than WHO standards. An additional experiment employing a 40 mg/L alum dose and 3 mg/L of bentonite from M'Zila (Algeria) as an adjuvant resulted in a 20.48% reduction in residual aluminum, bringing it below recommended levels. The dry residues were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) to explore the aluminum spectra, while the raw bentonite was characterized through X-ray fluorescence to determine its elemental composition.

Objective: Diabetes has emerged as a global pathological condition, affecting populations in both developed and developing countries. This study examines the potential disease conditions and symptoms associated with medication among diabetic patients in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted to evaluate treatment options for diabetes and assess the impact of various risk factors associated with the condition. Results: The study involved 115 patients, with a gender distribution of 71.03% female and 60.95% male. Educational background revealed that 78.94% of university-educated males and 82.35% of illiterate females suffered from diabetes. Treatment adherence was low, with 61.53% of male and 52.3% of female patients not taking medication regularly. Stressful conditions were reported by 63.46% of male and 36.53% of female patients. Common symptoms included weakness, vomiting, frequent urination, and weight loss. Exposure to various conditions was reported, including blood transfusion (11.55%), injecting drug use (8.04%), and dental treatment (46.23%). Medication usage was diverse, with oral medications taken by 44.66% of males and 55.335% of females, insulin by 39.13% of males and 60.86% of females, and combination therapies by 45.45% of males and 54.54% of females. Conclusion: The study highlights a lack of awareness regarding treatment management and medication among diabetic patients. Enhanced awareness and improved treatment management are essential to reduce the incidence of diabetes and related diseases in the future.

Brand equity building is a long-term strategic activity. This article builds on a model that conceptualizes 'Brand Equity Building' through sponsoring activities. Brand equity is embedded in brand loyalty, greater awareness, visibility, and a reinforced brand image. The process of brand equity creation through sponsorship depends on various factors, some external and out of the control of the sponsoring brand, and others under management's control, such as the duration of sponsoring engagement and communication efforts. This article discusses these factors and incorporates them into the existing model of brand equity creation.

This study investigates the larvicidal and antimicrobial activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using the plant Argemone mexicana L. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV-vis spectrophotometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, confirming their spherical shape and size ranging from 3 to 24 nm. Laboratory evaluations demonstrated the efficacy of these AgNPs against various larval instars (L1 to L4) of the dengue vector Aedes aegypti, with LC50 values of 5.24, 5.56, 6.20, and 7.04 ppm, respectively. A positive correlation was observed between AgNP concentration and mortality rates, with significant differences (P<0.05) recorded across exposure periods. The study also assessed the antimicrobial potential of the synthesized AgNPs, noting significant toxicity against gram-positive microbes and mild toxicity towards Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These findings suggest that plant-synthesized AgNPs offer a rapid, eco-friendly, and effective approach for mosquito larvicide and antimicrobial applications.

Diabetes mellitus is a significant global public health concern, requiring innovative approaches for its management and prevention. Cocoa powder, known for its cardiovascular benefits, may also hold potential in diabetes treatment. This study evaluates the effects of cocoa powder on diabetic albino rats. Sixty mature albino rats, averaging 200g, were housed in metabolic cages and assigned to one of ten groups, including normal and diabetic controls, and eight treatment groups receiving 1-4% cocoa powder mixed-feed. Diabetes was induced via intraperitoneal injection. We measured feed consumption, water intake, body weight, and fasting blood glucose, analyzing the data with SPSS version 17.0. Results indicated a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose and water intake, alongside increased body weight in diabetic rats receiving cocoa treatment compared to controls (P<0.05). Notably, rats fed with 4% cocoa powder exhibited the lowest water intake (29.6±8.41ml) and fasting blood glucose (101±3.26mg/dl). In normal rats, 4% cocoa powder resulted in the lowest body weight (204±11.6g). Both diabetic and normal treatment groups showed decreased feed intake compared to normal controls. These findings suggest cocoa powder effectively lowers blood glucose, mitigates polydipsia, and reverses weight loss in diabetic conditions.

Environmental hazards pose significant threats to the survival of life on Earth. The reckless exploitation of natural resources and the pursuit of unplanned development have endangered the biosphere. Critical global environmental issues include global warming, ozone depletion, biomagnification, eutrophication, carbon monoxide poisoning, acid rain, and the depletion of living species, all contributing to secondary biosphere problems. Stakeholders such as scientists, researchers, educators, government bodies, and the judiciary are actively seeking solutions to mitigate environmental pollution. However, efforts have been hampered by insufficient public engagement, largely due to a lack of awareness regarding the causes and consequences of pollution. This paper explores the role of education in mobilizing public engagement through debates, seminars, workshops, and media campaigns to effectively combat environmental hazards. By fostering public awareness and participation, a more robust and sustainable approach to environmental protection can be achieved.