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Green nanotechnology has gained significant attention recently in a variety of industries. Its focus is on producing nanoparticles (NPs) of a small size. It is also less harmful to human health and the environment. In Pakistan, Heliotropium eichwaldi (HE), a herbaceous plant, is extensively found. Many therapeutic qualities have been reported for the genus Heliotropium. The herb has been traditionally used to treat ulcers, headaches, and earaches. The purpose of this work is to create a simple and reliable process for the synthesis of Ag/Au bimetallic NPs (Ag-Au NPs) using HE extracts. After that, the effects of Ag-Au NPs will be examined, including their ability to scavenge free radicals and inhibit the two enzymes, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and alpha-amylase (α-amylase). The Ag-Au NPs were characterized using FT-IR, XRD, EDX, SEM, and UV–visible spectroscopy. The Ag, Au, and Ag-Au bimetallic NPs underwent XRD analysis, which showed a face-centered cubic crystal structure with an average size of 6 nm. Ag-Au NPs exhibit rod-shaped morphologies, according to SEM. Of the Ag-Au NPs, the elemental Ag signal was 4.20% and the elemental Au signal was 26.65%. The Ag-Au NPs showed remarkable inhibitory activity against AChE, α-amylase, and free radicals. According to our research, Ag-Au NPs can be successfully generated and go on to become important antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-Alzheimer agent compounds. Nonetheless, more research is advised to reduce any possible hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in peritoneal dialysis (PD) presents transformative opportunities for optimizing treatment outcomes and informing clinical decision-making. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the applications of AI/ML techniques in PD, focusing on their potential to predict clinical outcomes and enhance patient care. Materials and methods: This systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines (2020), searching key databases for articles on AI and ML applications in PD. The inclusion criteria were stringent, ensuring the selection of high-quality studies. The search strategy comprised MeSH terms and keywords related to PD, AI, and ML. 793 articles were identified, with nine ultimately meeting the inclusion criteria. The review utilized a narrative synthesis approach to summarize findings due to anticipated study heterogeneity. Results: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies varied in sample size and employed diverse AI and ML techniques, reflecting the breadth of data considered. Mortality prediction emerged as a recurrent theme, demonstrating the significance of AI and ML in prognostic accuracy. Predictive modeling extended to technique failure, hospital stay prediction, and pathogen-specific immune responses, showcasing the versatility of AI and ML applications in PD. Conclusions: This systematic review highlights the diverse applications of AI/ML in peritoneal dialysis, demonstrating their potential to enhance predictive accuracy, risk stratification, and decision support. However, limitations such as small sample sizes, single-center studies, and potential biases warrant further research and external validation. Future perspectives include integrating these AI/ML models into routine clinical practice and exploring additional use cases to improve patient outcomes and healthcare decision-making in PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the deadliest forms of skin cancer is malignant melanoma, developed by aberrant melanocyte cell development. Efficient diagnostic procedures are essential due to the rising prevalence of skin illnesses resulting from several variables such as infections, allergies, dietary habits, chemical exposure, genetic sensitivities, and lifestyle changes. An increasing number of Deep Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN) prototypes are used for the computerized identification of skin cancer using dermoscopic images. The research aims to develop a detailed classification framework for the multi-class categorization of skin cancer carcinoma at an earlier phase using Hair removal image processing Technique and Ensemble Visual Geometry Group-16 (EVGG-16) based on a Convolution Neural Network. The main idea is to set different initializations to the same VGG-16 model three times and then to Ensemble the results. The Experimental results show that the VGG-16 model receives an average accuracy of 87% and an F1 score of 86%. The proposed Ensemble Visual Geometry Group-16 (EVGG-16) model receives an average accuracy of 88% and an F1-score of 88% without the hair removal image processing technique; the same model receives an average accuracy of 89% and an F1-score of 88% after applying the hair removal image processing technique. The publicly accessible HAM1000 dataset was employed to experiment; it includes processed images belonging to seven classes to evaluate the model's effectiveness. In conclusion, our proposed Ensemble model with Hair removal technique performs better than other cutting-edge deep-learning techniques and skilled dermatologists. Furthermore, this might be a trustworthy real-time teaching resource for medical students in a dermatology program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Childhood hearing loss poses a significant public health challenge in Pakistan, with prevalence rates over double the global average. Parental knowledge and attitudes play a crucial role in timely detection and intervention. However, limited research explores this issue within the Pakistani context. This study aimed to examine parental knowledge and attitudes regarding childhood hearing loss in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and identify key demographic factors influencing parental perspectives. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted in Rawalpindi, Pakistan from March 1 to August 31, 2023. A total of 150 parents (79 fathers and 71 mothers) of children aged 0–12 years were recruited through convenience sampling at public locations such as schools, malls, and hospitals. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the validated "Parental Knowledge and Attitudes towards Childhood Hearing Loss Questionnaire," administered by a graduate student to assess parental knowledge and attitudes about childhood hearing loss. Descriptive statistics determined the percentage of correct responses and knowledge/attitudes scores. Chi-square tests explored associations between demographic factors and parental perspectives. Results: Overall, 67.3% of parents demonstrated good knowledge of childhood hearing loss. Notably, parents scored high on recognizing congenital causes (79.3%) but displayed low awareness of measles as a risk factor (29.3%). Significant gender disparities emerged in parental knowledge, with mothers exhibiting superior knowledge compared to fathers regarding newborn screening (63.4% vs. 46.8%), treatment availability (81.7% vs. 64.6%), and educational inclusion for children with hearing impairment (57.7% vs. 38.0%). Despite these knowledge gaps, parents generally held positive attitudes towards childhood hearing loss, with an average score of 94.7%. Gender and educational level significantly influence knowledge and attitudes. Conclusions: Although parents in Rawalpindi generally have a good understanding and positive attitudes towards childhood hearing loss, gaps in knowledge about preventable causes and gender disparities need attention. Providing tailored counselling for higher-risk, less educated groups and expanding policies for paediatric audiology services nationwide can help address these issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berula erecta L. is traditionally used for the treatment of various human ailments. The present project was arranged to study the antioxidant and anti-Parkinson efficacy of B. erecta extracts against rotenone-induced Parkinson diseases in rats. Fine powder of the plant was extracted with methanol and then fractionated through various solvents with increasing order of polarity. Phytochemical screenings were done using standard protocols and High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) while in-vitro antioxidant activities of plant fractions were evaluated using different free radicals. In-vivo anti-Parkinson and oxidative dysfunction experiments were conducted in rats. Results revealed that various fractions possessed flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids saponins, tannin, anthraquinon, and phlobatanine, while terpeniods and alkaloids were absent in aqueous fraction. Chromatographic analysis of methanol fraction showed the presence of various bioactive compounds viz., vitexin, orientin, rutin, catechin and myricetin. In-vitro antioxidant activities of various fractions of Berula erecta (B.erecta) showed that methanol fraction has remarkable scavenging efficacy of 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), beta carotene, and superoxide free radicals followed by chloroform fraction. Free radicals produced by 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and hydroxyl free radicals were considerably scavenged by methanol fraction followed by ethyl acetate fractions. In-vivo study of animal model showed that methanol fraction has significant recovery effects at behavioural, physiological and biochemical level against rotenone induced Parkinson disease. B.erecta has significantly improved rotenone-induced motor and nonmotor deficits (depression and cognitive impairments), increased antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduced neurotransmitter changes. It has been concluded from the present data that B.erecta enhances neurotransmitter levels by alleviating oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activity, hence improving motor activity, cognitive functioning, and decreasing depressed behavior. These data suggest that B. erecta may be a promising medicinal agent for reducing the risk and progression of Parkinson's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research work, the authors have developed a mathematical model to examine the interaction between dystrophin protein and tumor. The authors formulated a system of ordinary differential equations to describe the dynamics of the dystrophin-tumor interaction system. Jacobian matrix and Routh–Hurwitz stability techniques were used to determine equilibrium points, perform stability and bifurcation analysis, and establish the conditions required for the stability of the proposed model. Numerical simulations are performed using Euler's method to investigate the temporal evolution of the proposed model under different parameter values, such as tumor growth rate and feedback strength of dystrophin protein. The numerical results are presented in tables, and corresponding to each table, a graphical analysis is done. The graphical analysis includes creating phase portraits to visually represent stability regions around the equilibrium points, bifurcation diagrams to identify critical points, and time series analysis to highlight the behavior of the proposed model. The authors explore how variations in dystrophin expression impact tumor progression, identifying potential therapeutic implications of maintaining higher dystrophin levels. This comprehensive analysis enhances our understanding of the dystrophin-tumor interaction, providing a basis for further experimental validation and potential therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of polymer flooding is challenging in harsh temperature and salinity conditions in Middle-Eastern carbonate reservoirs, as they can deteriorate the commonly used polymers such as Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide (HPAM). One solution to this issue is the use of newly developed Acrylamido-Tertiary-Butyl Sulfonate (ATBS) based polymers, which can endure adverse temperature and salinity conditions. However, they also tend to adsorb onto carbonate rocks with positive surface charge. This study aims to tackle the problem of high polymer retention by employing low-salinity polymer flooding. For that coreflooding experiments were conducted on an ATBS-based polymer in salinities ranging from 400 to 167,000 ppm using fully water-saturated cores and cores at residual oil saturation (Sor). The single-phase retention experiments determined polymer retention values of around 25 µg/g-rock when using diluted brines, which is about half of the retention values (47–56 µg/g-rock) observed with high salinity seawater (43,000 ppm) and formation water (167,000 ppm). Furthermore, the retention of the ATBS-based polymer was further reduced by 50% in the presence of oil compared to the experiments conducted in the absence of oil. The results demonstrated that an optimal salinity threshold of 10,000 ppm and lower yields significant improvements in the efficiency of polymer flooding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mix design of concrete is an important aspect that affects its strength and durability. This paper aims to revisit the existing mix design method given in IS 10262:2019 through a capacity-based approach. The approach involves identifying the possible failure modes in concrete and eliminating the undesirable ones leading to significant reduction in dispersion. This is accomplished by utilizing coarse aggregates that meet a specific minimum strength requirement or threshold (e.g., ~ 77 MPa for M95 grade of concrete), which is determined through a priori estimating the cohesion and friction angle of the concrete. The methodology to estimate the cohesion and friction angle from a single unconfined compression test is proposed based on the Mohr–Coulomb theory and using the orientation of failure plane of fractured specimen as a supplemental information from the same experiment. This paper also offers a simple and approximate test procedure to estimate the aggregate's compressive strength (~ 106 MPa in this mix design) reasonably which is essential for the capacity-based mix design. An experimental programme is also carried out to design the concrete mix using the proposed capacity-based approach. The results indicate that M95 concrete is achieved with a low standard deviation and coefficient of variation (~ 3%), falling in class of excellent quality control as per ACI 214R-11. This quality control is crucial in seismic structural design as variations in concrete strength is likely to negate the underlying principle of strong column–weak beam philosophy resulting in the triggering of undesirable shear modes of failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To minimize harmful gas exposure and enable early disease diagnoses in low-resource settings, it is crucial to create an H2S gas sensor that can detect low ppb levels at room temperature (RT). H2S is both a widespread environmental pollutant and a significant breath biomarker for several diseases. Nevertheless, the development of portable inhaled gas sensors faces significant obstacles in achieving extremely sensitive and quick detection of H2S gas at low temperatures, specifically at the ppm level. In order to tackle this problem, we demonstrate delafossite CuGaO2 as a highly effective material deposited by RF sputtering for H2S sensing at RT. We connected two sensors in parallel, one with high selectivity towards H2S at RT and another with a high response working at 50 °C from the same materials. The delafossite CuGaO2 film shows the most significant response of 10.7% at 50 ppm of H2S, capable of detecting concentrations as low as 54.3 ppb at RT. The response time was ∼55 s, while the recovery time was ∼135 s with a high selectivity towards H2S. Increasing the sensor temperature to 50 °C, an immediate escalation in the response by more than twofold around 25.03% with slight disturbance in the selectivity was observed, with LOD of 12.68 ppb and response and recovery times of ∼66 s and 258 s, respectively. The CuGaO2 sensor demonstrated acceptable resistance/response variation towards different humidity, repeatability, long-term stability, and minimal change in cross-selectivity at both temperatures. This detection method at RT and 50 °C will assist in the development of cutting-edge manufacturing procedures that have the potential to enhance gas sensor technology. This will allow manufacturers to make a portable sensor that is suitable for real-time sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses a critical gap in the literature on the consumer–brand relationship by focusing on the under‐investigated concept of attitudinal and behavioural brand hate. This study goes beyond such common determinants as negative experiences and unfair pricing, introducing employee incivility and service quality as overlooked, but significant, antecedents. Employing structural equation modelling, a sample of 593 participants from the airline and restaurant industries was examined. The findings reveal that brand hate significantly impacts brand opposition and emotional forgiveness. Importantly, consumer resilience moderates these relationships, mitigating the negative effects of brand hate. Moreover, the study finds industry‐specific variations in the triggers and outcomes of brand hate, suggesting the need for tailored managerial strategies. The study extends the consumer–brand relationship literature by highlighting new research avenues and making significant contributions. Theoretically, it validates affective event theory and personality characteristics' role in buffering brand hate. In addition, this study carries implications for policymakers and managers to understand the multifaceted nature of brand hate, develop effective strategies to mitigate the negative effects of service failures and build stronger consumer–brand relationships. Furthermore, these insights facilitate the creation of tailored approaches that consider industry‐specific characteristics, thus helping to prevent the harmful impact of brand hate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation evaluates three satellite precipitation products (SPPs), Multi-Source Weighted-Ensemble Precipitation (MSWEP), Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCC), Climate Hazard Infrared Precipitation with Station Data (CHIRPS), and two reanalysis datasets, namely, the ERA5 atmosphere reanalysis dataset (ERA5) and Indian Monsoon Data Assimilation and Analysis (IMDAA), against the good quality gridded reference dataset (1991–2022) developed by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The evaluation was carried out in terms of the rainfall detection ability and estimation accuracy of the products using metrics such as the false alarm ratio (FAR), probability of detection (POD), misses, root mean square error (RMSE), and percent bias (PBIAS). Among all the rainfall products, ERA5 had the best ability to capture rainfall events with a higher POD, followed by MSWEP. Both MSWEP and ERA5 had PODs of 70–100% in more than 90% of the grids and less than 35% of missing rainfall events in the entire Tamil Nadu. In the case of the rainfall estimation accuracy evaluation, the MSWEP exhibited superior performance, with lower RMSEs and biases ranging from − 25 to 25% at the annual and seasonal scales. In northeast monsoon (NEM), CHIRPS demonstrated a comparable performance to that of MSWEP in terms of the RMSE and PBIAS. These findings will help product users select the best reliable rainfall dataset for improved research, diversified applications in various sectors, and policy-making decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mg3Sb2-based materials, part of the Zintl compound family, are known for their low thermal conductivity but face challenges in thermoelectric applications due to their low energy conversion efficiency. This study addressed these limitations through first-principles calculations using the CASTEP module in Materials Studio 8.0, aiming to enhance the thermoelectric performance of Mg3Sb2 via strategic doping. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to analyze electronic properties, including band structure and density of states (D.O.S.), providing insights into the influence of various dopants. The semiclassical Boltzmann transport theory, implemented in BoltzTrap (version 1.2.5), was used to evaluate key thermoelectric properties such as the Seebeck coefficient, electrical conductivity, electronic thermal conductivity, and electronic figure of merit (eZT). The results indicate that doping significantly improved the thermoelectric properties of Mg3Sb2, facilitating a transition from p-type to n-type behavior. Bi doping reduced the band gap from 0.401 eV to 0.144 eV, increasing carrier concentration and mobility, resulting in an electrical conductivity of 1.66 × 106 S/m and an eZT of 0.757. Ge doping increased the Seebeck coefficient to −392.1 μV/K at 300 K and reduced the band gap to 0.09 eV, achieving an electronic ZT of 0.859 with low thermal conductivity (11 W/mK). Si doping enhanced stability and achieved an electrical conductivity of 1.627 × 106 S/m with an electronic thermal conductivity of 11.3 W/mK, improving thermoelectric performance. These findings established the potential of doped Mg3Sb2 as a highly efficient thermoelectric material, paving the way for future research and applications in sustainable energy solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To highlight the effect of COVID-19 and DM on each other by studying glycemic control and risk factors for mortality. Study Design: Retrospective Observational Review. Setting: Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation Karachi Pakistan. Period: March 2020 till March 2021. Methods: Covid-19 diagnosed patients admitted were enrolled. They were divided into DM and non-DM. Demographics, clinical variables and outcome were compared. Glycemic control during hospitalization was noted. Fasting glucose level >120 mg/dl, and random >200 mg/dl were considered as poor glycemic control. Survivors and non- survivors among DM patients were compared. Results: A total of 366 patients were included, 113(30.87%) DM and 253(69.12%) non-DM. Mean age was higher in DM group (58yrs vs 49.6yrs p <0.001). Significantly more patients with hypertension (p <0.001) and ischemic heart disease (p=0.001) developed Covid-19 in DM group. There was no difference in mortality (p = 0.295). In DM patients, the significant risk factors for mortality were age >60years, hypertension and chronic kidney disease. The mean high fasting and pre-dinner blood glucose levels at admission and day 5 were significantly associated with mortality. Conclusion: Diabetic patients with advanced age, hypertension and chronic kidney disease were associated with increased risk of death. More attention should be focused on dynamic monitoring and strict glycemic control as uncontrolled diabetes is associated with severe infection and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) is an "endangered" mammal species that is restricted to four range countries of Asia. The ecology and breeding behavior of Indian pangolins is poorly understood due to a lack of scientific data. Due to heavy poaching and illegal killing, the species population has declined drastically in the last decade. Considering the fact that Indian pangolin has low reproductive output, it needs special conservation measures and authentic information about its breeding ecology. We estimated concentrations of three reproductive hormones from scats using ELISA kits in male and female pangolins inhabiting the Pothwar Plateau, Pakistan, to confirm its breeding pattern in its range. Testosterone levels were found elevated from May (0.59 ng/ml) until October (1.28 ng/ml). Oestradiol levels were raised from May (0.59 pg/ml) until December (2.64 pg/ml). Progesterone concentrations were relatively low from January until March but increased from April (4.85 pg/ml) through December (14.0 pg/ml) with highest concentrations (20.13 pg/ml) in September and October. Mean hormone (testosterone, oestradiol and progesterone) concentrations were elevated in winter compared to summer (p < 0.001). The current study is the first one to quantify hormonal levels in this species, and our findings establish the breeding pattern of Indian pangolin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research Question/Issue: We investigate whether the risk‐taking of Islamic banks is affected differently by corruption compared to conventional banks. We also examine whether the characteristics of the Shari'ah Supervisory Board (SSB) of Islamic banks and the characteristics of the board of directors of conventional banks play an effective role in moderating such an effect. Research Findings/Insights: We find consistent evidence that banks in countries with higher corruption have higher bank risk for both conventional and Islamic banks. However, this association is attenuated by the size of the SSB, the presence of female board members, and higher academic qualifications of SSB members. For conventional banks, the moderating effect of the presence of female directors and academically qualified members on the board of directors is also prevalent but to a lesser extent. Theoretical/Academic Implications: This study contributes to the corporate finance literature more generally by highlighting the role played by corporate governance, particularly the presence of female members and academically qualified members on the SSBs of Islamic banks and on the board of directors of conventional banks, in mitigating the effect of corruption on bank risk‐taking for the two bank types. Practitioner/Policy Implications: Our findings are based on a matched sample of banks operating in 10 OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) countries and have important implications for bank stability and bank governance reforms. On the detrimental side, urgency of the anti‐corruption campaigns in these countries is justified due to the significant effect of corruption on risk‐taking for both conventional and Islamic banks. Overall, to better fight corruption in countries with dual banking systems, there is a need to enforce stricter rules for all types of banks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important and frequently reported issues in cloud computing is fault tolerance. Implementing Fault Tolerance (FT) in cloud computing is challenging due to the diverse architecture and the complex interrelationships of system resources. The primary objective of this article is to critically review and analyze the fault-tolerant models with two other related aspects, i.e., load balancing and scheduling which is the peak need of the time and was not adequately addressed in the recent related surveys. In this paper, we present the systematic and comparative analysis of these hybrid models highlighting their limitations in different parameters, cases, and scenarios. Our analysis reveals that Proactive, Reactive, and Resilient approaches are commonly utilized to address system failure in the cloud. Also, it was found that a thorough study of intelligent fault tolerance approaches, also known as resilient fault tolerance, was overseen to determine their efficacy over conventional approaches. Additionally, the survey includes the discussion part which presents a unique in-depth analysis of hybrid fault tolerant approaches with respect to the handling of different faults and parameters. To illustrate the reviewed observations, a detailed statistical analysis has been conducted and presented graphically to provide insights into the study and simultaneously highlight further research in this area. Our analysis includes the critical role of these hybrid fault-tolerant models in accomplishing high accessibility and reliability in emerging computing systems thereby providing valuable insights for future researchers of the field. We have also provided a broad roadmap that charts strategies for facing the discussed cloud challenges. The study provides valuable contributions to the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to minimize human impact on the environment, it is crucial to determine the best way to utilize land through assessments of its suitability. This research focuses on the Anantnag district in the Kashmir valley, exploring its potential as a suitable area for mulberry agroforestry. Consequently, the selection of suitable sites for mulberry-based agroforestry has become an essential element of sustainable land use planning and agriculture, with the aim of maintaining ecological equilibrium. In the context of a Geographic Information System (GIS), we employ a method called multi-criteria assessment to evaluate the suitability of a specific site for mulberry agroforestry in the study area. This assessment involves considering various factors such as slope, temperature, rainfall, land use and land cover (LULC), as well as the physical and chemical properties of the soil. To assign scores to these criteria, we utilized the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) technique, conducted interviews with local experts, and referred to existing literature. By applying a weighted overlay analysis, which takes into account the importance of each parameter, we generated a map depicting the suitability of the research area for mulberry agroforestry. The map for mulberry agroforestry suitability in the study area indicates that 16.59% of the land is highly suitable, 28.16% is moderately suitable, 40.29% is marginally suitable, and 14.96% is unsuitable. To ensure the accuracy of the findings, satellite images, Sentinel-2b LULC mapping, and GPS-enabled field surveys were extensively employed to verify the results. These findings can be utilized by farmers, regional developers, and the government to inform their decisions regarding potential mulberry agroforestry areas and develop sustainable agroforestry management strategies for the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, DFT studies were carried out of a novel Phenothiazine-based Fluorescent Probe (PFP) for its physio-chemical and thermodynamic properties. Various aspects were investigated including optimized geometry, frontier molecular orbitals, molecular electrostatic potential, density of states, UV-Vis emission spectra and reactivity parameters. DFT studies reveal that molecular modeling, including the optimization of molecular structures like PFP, is crucial for understanding complex molecules and their characteristics. The energy difference (∆E) between the Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital (HOMO) and Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital (LUMO) was determined to be 4.48 eV. MEP maps indicate the nitrogen and sulfur atoms in the thiazine ring appear red, indicating high electron density. Similarly, the benzene rings appear blue thereby indicating lower electron density. The DOS spectrum confirmed the HOMO-LUMO gap and provided insights into the availability of electronic states at specific energy levels. High DOS intensity indicated many accessible states, while zero intensity indicated none. Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT) calculations predicted the absorption maximum at 365 nm and emission spectra for PFP, with a calculated maximum emission at 656 nm. Coordination with water shifts the emission to 690 nm, showing a redshift of 44 nm. Moreover, the theoretically calculated maximum emission of probe PFP was determined to be λem = 656 nm, whereas maximum emission spectra of probe PFP with water coordination is calculated as λem = 690 nm which is red shifted 44 nm. These theoretically calculated values significantly deviate from experimental value. This deviation occured because the absorption and emission spectra recorded in solvents of different polarity result in different wavenumbers and intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper analyses the adsorbent properties of a unique biomass i.e. horse chestnut shell (Aesculus hippocastanum L) activated carbon synthesized by chemical activation of KOH produced under optimized carbonization conditions for Fe3+. Research was done to look into the characteristics of the made activated carbon and its systematic effects of process parameters. Characterizations like SEM, BET, FTIR, XRD, TGA, EDX, proximate and ultimate analysis, calorific value was performed. Also effect of process parameters like initial Fe3+ ion content, contact time, dosage and temperature of system was studied for mechanism of adsorption at pH (6) of Fe3+ in an aqueous solution. Data on equilibrium and kinetic isotherms from experiments were examined, for kinetics pseudo 1st order reaction, pseudo 2nd order reaction and intraparticle diffusion has been utilised. System was fairly fitted by pseudo-2nd-order reaction. Adsorption isotherms such as Halsey, Harkin Jura, Temkin, Freundlich, and Langmuir and Dubinin Radushkevich were used and Langmuir adsorption isotherm turned out best suitable match as R2 value was found out to be 0.99. The maximum Fe3+ adsorbing ability of the HCAC4 was 138.88 mg/g at 25 °C. Thermodynamical evaluation concluded the process to be spontaneous and heat-releasing. Highlights: Horse chestnut shell biomass was converted to activated carbon using KOH activation. Characterization (SEM, BET, FTIR, XRD, TGA, EDX) revealed favourable structural and compositional properties. Investigated effects of Fe3+ ion content, contact time, dosage, and temperature, achieving 138.88 mg/g adsorption at 25 °C. Pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm (R² = 0.99) best described the adsorption process. The process was spontaneous and exothermic, showing high potential for Fe3+ removal in water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) primarily affects pediatric patients. Data on the global incidence of DIPG remain sparse, especially in South Asia and low-middle-income countries like Pakistan. Methods: After exemption from the Ethics Review Committee, a retrospective study was conducted. Records of patients with DIPG at the Aga Khan Hospital in Karachi, from January 2010 to December 2022, were reviewed. Results: A total of 35 pediatric patients were managed for DIPG. The median age of the patients was 9, with 19 (54.3%) males and 16 (45.7%) females. Cranial nerve palsies were the most common complaint and were present in 19 (54.3%) patients, followed by headaches in 18 (51.4%), long tract signs in 14 (40%), ataxia/cerebellar symptoms in 14 (40%), and seizures in 5 (14.3%). MRI was the primary diagnostic tool, used alone or with CT in 32 (94.1%) patients; CT alone was used in only 2 (5.7%) patients. Biopsy was performed in 10 (28.6%) patients. Primary radiation therapy was administered to 14 (40%) patients with 5400 cGy in 30 fractions. All these patients received steroids while none of them received reirradiation. VP shunt surgery for hydrocephalus was performed in 9 (25.7%) patients. Over half (54.3%) refused treatment post-diagnosis, and 71.4% were lost to follow-up. Conclusion: Providing timely, quality multi-disciplinary care to DIPG patients within resource constraints remains challenging in Pakistan. However, recent developments show promise for improving DIPG care in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to portray the atomic intelligence and prognostic implications of differentially expressed genes and their involvement in biological pathways in endometrial carcinoma, with a specific focus on the impacts of exercise on cancer. Methods: We utilized a multi-faceted approach, including volcano plots, Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses, Venn diagrams, protein-protein interaction networks, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, Gene Set Variety Analysis, and single-cell transcriptomic analysis. Furthermore, we profiled tumor mutational scenes, assessed the prognostic value of immune-related features, and conducted a comprehensive examination of genetic variations and their impact on tumor mutational burden across different cancer types. Multidimensional genomic interactions and methylation elements were also investigated. Using real-time quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence staining, the effects of B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) silencing on TNF-a and caspase-3 gene expression were evaluated. Results: Our study identified a noteworthy number of differentially expressed genes in endometrial carcinoma with potential links to athletic performance traits. BCL2 expression levels were found to be associated with survival outcomes, and its changeability across cancers was related to immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoint gene expression. Single-cell investigations uncovered cellular complexity within tumor microenvironments and critical biological pathways in BCL2-overexpressing cells. The expression flow and mutational effect of BCL2 in endometrial carcinoma were characterized, and the prognostic implications of immune-related features were assessed. Hereditary variations, including copy number variations and their relationship with gene expression and tumor mutational burden, were investigated. Multidimensional genomic transaction highlighted the essential role of regulatory genes in cancer pathogenesis. Silencing of the BCL2 gene significantly inhibited the proliferation of HEC-108 cells and promoted apoptosis, as evidenced by decreased TNF-a gene expression and increased caspase-3 gene expression. Immunofluorescence staining further confirmed these results. Conclusion: This study gives a point-by-point understanding of the atomic intelligence and prognostic implications in endometrial carcinoma and across various other cancers. BCL2's role as a modulatory factor within the tumor-resistant environment and its potential impact on disease prognosis and response to immunotherapy were underscored. The multidimensional genomic analysis provides insights into the complex interaction between genetic and epigenetic variables in cancer, which may shed light on future therapeutic strategies. This study indicates that silencing the BCL2 gene can significantly inhibit tumor cell proliferation and promote apoptosis through the regulation of the TNF-a and caspase-3 pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To explore the feasibility of imaging amino-acid transport and PSMA molecular pathways in the detection of metastatic breast invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) and if there is superior detection compared to standard-of-care imaging [computed tomography (CT)/bone scan, or 18F-FDG positron-emission-tomography (PET)-CT]. Methods: 20 women with de-novo or suspected metastatic ILC underwent two PET-CT scans with 18F-fluciclovine and 68Ga-PSMA-11 on separate days. Uptake per patient and in 3 regions per patient - ipsilateral axillary lymph node (LN), extra-axillary LN (ipsilateral supraclavicular or internal mammary), or distant sites of disease - was compared to standard-of-care imaging (CT/bone scan in 13 patients and 18F-FDG PET-CT in 7 patients). Results were correlated to a composite standard of truth. Confirmed detection rate (cDR) was compared using McNemar's test. Mean SUVmax of 18F-fluciclovine and 68Ga-PSMA-11 in the most avid lesion for each true positive metastatic region and intact primary lesion were compared by t-test. Results: The cDR for standard-of-care imaging was 5/20 patients in 5/60 regions. 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET-CT detected metastasis in 7/20 patients in 7/60 regions. 18F-fluciclovine PET-CT detected metastasis in 9/20 patients in 12/60 regions. The cDR for 18F-fluciclovine PET-CT was significantly higher versus standard-of-care imaging on the patient and combined region levels, while there were no significant differences between 68Ga-PSMA-11 and standard-of care imaging. 18F-fluciclovine cDR was also significantly higher than 68Ga-PSMA-11 on the combined region level. Mean SUVmax for true positive metastatic and primary lesions with 18F-fluciclovine (n = 18) was significantly greater than for 68Ga-PSMA-11 (n = 11) [5.5 ± 1.8 versus 3.5 ± 2.7 respectively, p = 0.021]. Conclusion: In this exploratory trial, 18F-fluciclovine PET-CT has a significantly higher cDR for ILC metastases compared to standard-of-care imaging and to 68Ga-PSMA-11. Mean SUVmax for true positive malignancy was significantly higher with 18F-fluciclovine than for 68Ga-PSMA-11. Exploratory data from this trial suggests that molecular imaging of amino acid metabolism in patients with ILC deserves further study. Clinical trial registration: Early phase (I-II) clinical trial (NCT04750473) funded by the National Institutes of Health (R21CA256280). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the application of fuzzy sets has gained significant attraction in various fields, including medical diagnosis, due to their ability to manage uncertainties and imprecise information. This paper focuses on the comparative analysis of similarity measures within the realm of Generalized Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy Soft Expert Sets (GIVIFSESs) and explores their application in the domain of medical diagnosis. Most of the important topics in fuzzy set theory are the similarity measures between the generalizations of fuzzy set theory. Similarity measures are a crucial tool which was used in data science. In this process, we measure how much the data sets are related and comparable. Measures of similarity give a numerical value that reveals the strength of associations between sets or sets of variables. In this paper, we initiate a new concept of generalized interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy soft expert sets and their fundamental operations. This new concept is more flexible than existing concepts based on their algebraic definition. Unlike fuzzy sets, the concept of generalized interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy soft expert sets is characterized by a degree of membership and degree of non-membership along with fuzzy set theory. The proposed methodology is validated through an empirical application in medical diagnosis, where (GIVIFSESs) are employed to model the uncertainty and imprecision inherent in expert assessments. The selected similarity measures are then applied to quantify the degree of resemblance between different medical cases, facilitating a more informed decision-making process. We introduce several types of similarity measures on generalized interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy soft expert sets. We also discuss a similarity measure of Type-I, Type-II, and Type-III for two (GIVIFSESs) and its application in medical diagnosis problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulses are essential components of vegetarian diet and play a pivotal role in addressing malnutrition by providing a vital source of dietary protein. However, weed competition remains as a significant obstacle to blackgram (Vigna mungo L) production, resulting in 25 to 35% yield losses. A field experiment was carried out at the National Pulses Research Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Vamban, Pudukkottai, India during Kharif seasons of 2020 and 2021, to assess the suitable post-emergence herbicides for appropriate weed control in blackgram grown under irrigated conditions. The experimental field was observed to contain notable grass weed flora, specifically Dactyloctenium aegyptium and Chloris barbata, as well as broadleaved weeds, such as Flaveria australica, Cleome gynandra, Eclipta alba, Convolvulus arvensis, Digera arvensis, Vicia spp., and Celosia argentea. The results demonstrated that among the chemical weed management methods, spraying of Fomesafen @ 220 g + Fluzifop p-butyl @ 220 g ha−1 at 20 days after sowing (DAS) as a post-emergence herbicide treatment exhibited superior weed control efficiency, recording 66.80% and 68.53% at 30 and 45 DAS, respectively and recorded higher seed yield of 1088 kg ha−1. Additionally, this method generated 8.1% higher net income and 12.5% more benefit–cost ratio than hand weeding, making it an economically profitable strategy for maximizing blackgram yield and effective labour management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Redgram (Cajanus cajan L. Mill sp.), a leguminous crop commonly grown in tropical and subtropical climates, is highly valued for its high protein content (21%), which contributes significantly to food and nutritional security. However, its production faces challenges primarily due to terminal dryness experienced during critical growth stages because of changing rainfall patterns. To overcome this, adaptive techniques become imperative as the productivity of this crop is intricately linked to environmental factors and the crop's growth cycle. Methods: Hence, the field experiment was conducted at the National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban, Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, in South India under rainfed condition, during the kharif (monsoon) seasons of 2017-18 and 2018-19. The primary objectives were to determine the optimal sowing time and identify suitable redgram cultivars, especially in the context of the late onset of the monsoon in Tamil Nadu, a common issue under changing climate conditions. The experiments tested six different sowing dates with three redgram cultivars. Results and discussion: The findings highlighted the substantial influence of different redgram cultivars and sowing times on the crop's growth characteristics and yield. Among the six sowing dates tested, planting in later half of June (S6) resulted in notably higher plant height (201 cm), a greater number of pods per plant (287), a seed yield of 1,112 kg ha-1, and a benefit-cost ratio of 2.61 Notably, this sowing period (S6) demonstrated comparable performance with the treatment of redgram sowing in the latter part of September (S4). CO 6 (V1) is the most productive of the three redgram cultivars, with the highest mean pant height (200 cm), number of pods per plant (237), grain yield (1,017 kg ha-1), and benefit cost ratio(2.38). Extended phenological phases along with extra days to reach phenological stages could account for the increased yield in comparison to the other cultivars. Among the two short-duration cultivars, VBN (Rg) 3 (V3) had a significantly highermean grain yield of 958 kg ha-1 with the benefit-cost ratio of 2.24. Even though CO 6 (V1) obtained a higher yield due to its long duration nature, it matured in 187 days whereas VBN (Rg) 3 (V3) matured within 129 days. Consequently, the short-duration redgram cultivars emerge as highly suitable choices for integrating into crop sequences, thereby augmenting farm cropping intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the projected impact of air pollution on mortality and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) across SAARC countries. Utilizing Time Series and Machine Learning methodologies such as Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average, Exponential Smoothing, and Neural Network, the research aims to accurately forecast the mortality and DALYs attributed to air pollution from 2020 to 2030. Statistical analyses reveal a consistent upward trend in deaths and DALYs during the forecasting period, primarily driven by Ambient Particulate Matter Pollution (APM) and Ambient Ozone Pollution (AOP). Comparing the predictive accuracy of the models, Neural Network outperformed other methods, as indicated by Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values. Specifically, the study finds that deaths and DALYs due to Ambient Particulate Matter pollution are least prevalent in the Maldives, while India and Pakistan exhibit the highest rates, and deaths and DALYs due to Ambient Ozone pollution are lowest in the Maldives and highest in Bangladesh and Pakistan. Moreover, deaths and DALYs attributed to Household Air Pollution (HAP) are lowest in Pakistan and highest in Nepal. These findings underscore the urgent need for air pollution control measures and informed policymaking in SAARC countries to mitigate the escalating health burden associated with air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercapacitors (SCs) are crucial for high‐performance energy storage, offering high power density, swift charge–discharge rates, and durability. The enhancement of their performance hinges on the development of advanced electrode materials. This study presents an innovative method involving polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers adorned with manganese dioxide (MnO₂) nanoparticles (NPs), created through electrospinning and subsequent thermal treatment. This synergy exploits the extensive surface area and electrical conductivity of PAN nanofibers along with the substantial capacitance of MnO₂. The MnO₂‐coated PAN nanofibers reached an impressive specific capacitance of 247 F g−1 at a scan rate of 10 mVs−1, markedly boosting the efficacy of all‐solid‐state asymmetric SCs. The SCs, incorporating a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/potassium hydroxide (KOH) gel electrolyte, exhibited an energy density of 8.2 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 700 W kg−1, preserving 80.4% of their original capacitance after 5000 cycles. This research is pioneering in combining MnO₂ with PAN nanofibers, marking a significant leap forward in supercapacitor technology with enhanced energy storage capacity and prolonged stability. These findings underscore the promise of these composite materials in future energy storage solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global mortality data indicates cancer as the second-leading cause of death worldwide. Therefore, there's a pressing need to innovate effective treatments to address this significant medical and societal challenge. In recent years, X-ray-induced photodynamic therapy (X-PDT) has emerged as a promising advancement, revolutionizing traditional photodynamic therapy (PDT) for deeply entrenched malignancies by harnessing penetrating X-rays as external stimuli. Recent developments in X-ray photodynamic therapy have shown a trend toward minimizing radiation doses to remarkably low levels after the proof-of-concept demonstration. Early detection and real-time monitoring are crucial aspects of effective cancer treatment. Sophisticated X-ray imaging techniques have been enhanced by the introduction of X-ray luminescence nano-agents, alongside contrast nanomaterials based on X-ray attenuation. X-ray luminescence-based in vivo imaging offers excellent detection sensitivity and superior image quality in deep tissues at a reasonable cost, due to unhindered penetration and unimpeded auto-fluorescence of X-rays. This review emphasizes the significance of X-ray responsive theranostics, exploring their mechanism of action, feasibility, biocompatibility, and promising prospects in imaging-guided therapy for deep-seated tumors. Additionally, it discusses promising applications of X-PDT in treating breast cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer, and colorectal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Trauma registries are essential tools for improving trauma care quality and efficiency, but many fail to capture long-term patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Focusing on these outcomes is crucial for understanding the extent of disability patients experience and identifying potential post-discharge interventions to optimize recovery. Studies reflecting the experience from low- and middle-income countries in this area are limited. Therefore, we aim to develop a digital trauma registry in Pakistan to prospectively capture patient-reported outcome measures at one, three, six, and twelve months post-injury. Methods: We will develop and implement a digital trauma registry at two tertiary care facilities in Karachi, Pakistan: Aga Khan University Hospital and Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center. The registry will include all admitted adult trauma patients (≥ 18 years). Data collection will be conducted digitally using tablets, with mortality, level of disability, functional status, and quality of life as primary outcomes. Follow-up data will be collected through telephone interviews with patients and caregivers. We will employ descriptive statistics to summarize participant's socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Additionally, we will perform survival analysis using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard models and utilize mixed-effects linear regression to adjust for potential confounders for primary outcomes. Discussion: The trauma registry will fill the current gap in knowledge regarding long-term outcomes among trauma patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study will delineate future direction for capturing post-discharge data, enhancing our understanding of recovery, and informing the design of interventions aimed at improving long-term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, an entirely new class of nanofluids has been developed, namely hybrid nanofluids. Their efficiency when it comes to heat transfer has been demonstrated to be much higher than the traditional nanofluids. In this study, the flow of hybrid nanofluid is analyzed subjected to the flow geometry of oscillatory disk that also rotates with the constant angular speed. Mainly, we investigated hybrid nanofluid flow subjected to an oscillatory disk that rotates at a constant angular speed as an incompressible, laminar and time-dependent electrically conducting flow. The implication of similarity functions normalizes the flow phenomenon. Furthermore, we solved the governing system by implementing the finite differences, and then the iterative procedure is carried out with the help of Successive Over-Relaxation (SOR) technique. In the later part of the paper, graphical representation is given to discuss dimensionless factors in both scenarios of nanofluid and hybrid nanofluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Podaxis pistillaris is neutraceutically, cosmoceutically and medicinally recognised macrofungus. During this research work, this edible mushroom was systematically characterised. Its culturability, laccase production, and dye decolorisation potential were evaluated and optimised. Among the different media tested, PDA proved as most efficient medium for culturability of P. pistillaris. Conditions for laccase production were optimised in submerged state fermentation. Maximum laccase secretion was noted after 14th day of Incubation at 35 °C with 130 rpm and 5 pH of medium. Fructose and ammonium-phosphate was found as best carbon and nitrogen source, while wheat straw revealed as good ligno-cellulosic source for strengthening laccase production. Congo-red dye decolorisation capability by crude laccase enzyme was evaluated and found maximum decolorisation potential (92.2%) after 288h of incubation. From this pilot study, it was confirmed that this edible macrofungus has culturability, laccase production and dye decolorisation attributes that will further contribute in delignification, biosorption and bioremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From tying one's shoelaces to driving a car, complex skills involving the coordination of multiple muscles are common in everyday life; yet relatively little is known about how these skills are learned. Recent studies have shown that new sensorimotor skills involving re-mapping familiar body movements to unfamiliar outputs cannot be learned by adjusting pre-existing controllers, and that new task-specific controllers must instead be learned "de novo". To date, however, few studies have investigated de novo learning in scenarios requiring continuous and coordinated control of relatively unpractised body movements. In this study, we used a myoelectric interface to investigate how a novel controller is learned when the task involves an unpractised combination of relatively untrained continuous muscle contractions. Over five sessions on five consecutive days, participants learned to trace a series of trajectories using a computer cursor controlled by the activation of two muscles. The timing of the generated cursor trajectory and its shape relative to the target improved for conditions trained with post-trial visual feedback. Improvements in timing transferred to all untrained conditions, but improvements in shape transferred less robustly to untrained conditions requiring the trained order of muscle activation. All muscle outputs in the final session could already be generated during the first session, suggesting that participants learned the new task by improving the selection of existing motor commands. These results suggest that the novel controllers acquired during de novo learning can, in some circumstances, be constructed from components of existing controllers. Author summary: Real-world skills often involve continuous coordination of multiple muscles. Recent studies of sensorimotor skill learning have argued that these skills are not learned by adjusting existing control policies, instead requiring a new controller to be learned "de novo". It remains unclear how such controllers are learned for tasks involving unfamiliar combinations of body movements. In this study, we used a novel human-computer interface task to test this. Over five sessions, participants learned to trace a series of cursor trajectories by coordinating the activation of two muscles. We found that participants tended to reuse the same muscle contractions for trained and untrained variants of the task, and that performance improvements were attributable to improvements in the choice of muscle contractions from a pre-existing repertoire. Our results suggest that new control policies can sometimes be constructed from elements of existing ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the development of Bi/Bi2O3@Al2O3 nanocomposites for wastewater treatment, corrosion resistance, and self-cleaning properties, it is imperative to carefully combine and analyze various elements for the optimization of catalyst performance. We aim to provide effective and long-term environmental remediation solutions. FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, EDS, TEM, UV-vis spectroscopy, PL, and TGA techniques were used to characterize the Bi/Bi2O3@Al2O3 nanocomposite. The nanocomposite displayed significant supercapacitance and self-cleaning properties. A composite of bismuth–aluminum oxides was used as a catalyst to facilitate the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) dye in aqueous solutions, and excellent catalytic reduction results were obtained. The photocatalyst catalyzed the reduction of 4-NP to 99% with a rate constant of 2.592 × 10−2 (10−2 min−1) in a short period of 40 minutes under UV-visible irradiation. Photogenerated electrons migrate from Bi/Bi2O3@Al2O3 when exposed to visible light as a result of the significant band gap in the conduction band and the structure of the core electrostatic field within the p–n heterojunction. When exposed to visible light, the Bi/Bi2O3@Al2O3 nanocomposite exhibited more charge separation with excellent catalytic reduction efficiency. It represents an important development since it offers effective wastewater treatment remedies, energy storage, and self-cleaning properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biggest issue with bleomycin (BLM) chemotherapy is pulmonary damage. BLM manifests oxidative stress via an uncontrolled progression of reactive oxygen species in pneumocystis, a relative deficit of the deactivation enzyme BLM hydrolase and the formation of inflammatory cytokines leading to apoptosis. There have been several attempts to treat patients for this adverse effect by giving them antioxidant rich supplements to minimise free radicals. Compounds that are extracted from plants or that are based on plants emphasise more on curing such patient issues in order to support treatment, rejuvenate, or manage normal metabolism. Hence, in this study we concentrated on pretreatment of lung cancer derived A549 cells with phytocompound nootkatone (NKT) to prevent BLM-mediated oxidative stress. We find in our study, the BLM-exposed cells have displayed morphological anomalies such as shrinkage, blabbing, and chromatin condensation, among others. Yet, even after exposure to BLM, no such abnormalities were seen in NKT pretreated cells. In NKT pretreatment cells, there was a significant surge in endogenous antioxidants and a decrease in lipid peroxidation, in contrast, cells exposed to BLM had lower levels of antioxidants and greater levels of lipid peroxidation. In gene expression analysis, the pro-apoptotic gene Bcl-2/Bax and the apoptotic executor caspase 3 were significantly suppressed in the NKT pretreated cells, which attenuated BLM-mediated apoptosis. The current investigation, showed that the NKT pretreatment has displayed merit for pulmonary protective activity against BLM-induced oxidative stress by boosting the intracellular antioxidant defence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural loans are critically linked with agricultural productivity. Agricultural productivity has a significant dependency on climate contingencies. This motivates us to explore the impacts of the climate change on recovery of agricultural loans caused by losses in agricultural productivity. Using panel data from 82 districts of Pakistan over a period of 21 years, i.e., 2000–2020, we estimate the sensitivity of agricultural productivity to climate change in each district. Using these sensitivities, we then apply Panel-Corrected Standard Errors (PCSE) Regression to estimate whether climate change sensitivities of agricultural productivity have any impact on the recoveries of agricultural loans across the sampled districts. We find that the impact of climate change on agricultural loan recoveries is asymmetric. Specifically, negative sensitivities to climate change result in lower recoveries, while positive sensitivities led to enhanced loan recoveries. Our study is unique as it provides evidence of the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity as well as loan recoveries in a set of district-level data. We built a unique climate change index to measure the level of climate change and also introduced a framework to measure climate change sensitivities of agricultural productivity in our sample districts. We believe that this novel approach is an addition to the existing literature on climate change. We suggest that while devising agricultural and credit policies the governments and banks must consider investing in educating the farmer's on climate change adaptation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed radionuclide concentration in Murree's natural spring water and the variation of soil mass-attenuation coefficient. Water samples from 20 springs and soil from 15 sites were analyzed. Radium-226, Thorium-232, and Potassium-40 activity concentrations averaged 0.43 ± 0.09, 0.52 ± 0.08, and 1.52 ± 0.19 Bq/L, respectively. Radiation hazard indices, including Radium equivalent, External and Internal hazard indices, External and internal absorbed and equivalent doses, and lifetime cancer risk, were quantified but found non-alarming. Mass-attenuation coefficients for various energies were measured experimentally and theoretically. Various radiation shielding parameters were calculated. Murree's soil demonstrated lower attenuation properties compared to cement, tiles, concrete, and Egyptian soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accepted by: Ali Emrouznejad The environmental efficiency of industries plays an important role in economic development of countries. Accordingly, dividing the internal network structure of industries into two sub-processes, including green and operational stages, enables decision-makers to assess both of the efficiencies simultaneously. Such assessment can be implemented using a non-parametric methodology termed data envelopment analysis (DEA). Standard DEA models consider the whole system of decision-making units (DMUs) as a single process (i.e. black-box). The black-box approach ignores modelling of the internal network structure of the assessed DMUs. This issue tackled by network DEA models since it considers the internal network structure of DMUs. In the network DEA, the efficiency evaluation of system stages is essential to identify its overall efficiency, resulting to a multi-objective optimization problem. Therefore, the network DEA is a widely welcomed methodology proposed for solving multi-objective problems. This paper assesses the operational and environmental efficiencies of a network structure system by converting the multi-objective optimization problem into a linear single objective function. In this investigation, a technique of tri-objective function problem is proposed. The proposed technique transforms into a single objective function by keeping one objective function and shifting the other two objective functions into the model's constraints. The applicability and usefulness of the proposed technique have been tested using a data set of 20 industries. The developed approach provides valuable evaluations to decision-makers to rank DMUs by considering their green and operational efficiency simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The availability of current land cover and land use (LCLU) information for monitoring the status of land resources has considerable value in ensuring sustainable land use planning and development. Similarly, the need to provide updated information on the extent of LCLU change in West Africa has become apparent, given the increasing demand for land resources driven by rapid population growth. Over the past decade, multiple projects have been undertaken to produce regional and national land cover maps. However, using different classification systems and legends has made updating and sharing land cover information challenging. This has resulted in the inefficient use of human and financial resources. The development of the Land Cover Meta Language (LCML) based on International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards offers an opportunity to create a standardized classification system. This system would enable easier integration of regional and national data, efficient management of information, and better resource utilization in West Africa. This article emphasizes the process and the need for multistakeholder collaboration in developing a standardized land cover classification system for West Africa, which is currently nonexistent. It presents the survey data collected to evaluate historical, current, and future land cover mapping projects in the region and provides relevant use cases as examples for operationalizing a standardized land cover classification legend for West Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the efficacy of modified combined trabeculotomy-trabeculectomy (CTT) with mitomycin-C (MMC) versus conventional CTT with MMC for intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction in patients with primary congenital glaucoma (PCG). Methods: This interventional study was carried out in The Institute of Ophthalmology, Lahore from January 2018 to June 2019. We included 70 patients of either gender, with the age range from birth to ten years and with PCG having IOP >30 mm Hg. These patients were divided in groups A and B with 35 patients in each group. Patients in Group-A underwent modified CTT with MMC and in Group-B conventional CTT with MMC was carried out. Results: The mean age of our patients was 15.17 ± 12.39 months. Regarding gender, 57 (81.4%) were males and 13 (18.6%) were females. Baseline mean IOP in Group-A was 32.49 ± 1.01 mm Hg whereas in Group-B mean IOP was 31.97 ± 1.04 mm Hg. After one month, the mean IOP was 27.60 ± 1.72 mm Hg in Group-A, whereas mean IOP was 27.40 ± 1.82 mmHg in Group-B. After three months, the mean IOP was 21.63 ± 1.09 mm Hg in Group-A, whereas 20.97 ± 1.12 mm Hg in Group-B. In Group-A efficacy was achieved in 14 (40%) patients whereas in Group-B efficacy was achieved in 25 (71.4%) patients. Conclusion: Our study revealed that conventional CTT with MMC showed better efficacy than modified CTT with MMC for reduction of IOP in PCG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work focuses on the utilization of potato peel waste for the production of bioethanol. In the present study, extensive screening was undertaken to isolate amylolytic and cellulolytic microbes using starchy biomass. After confirming the chemical composition of potato peel waste (PPW), several trials were performed to enhance the amylase and cellulase production from Bacillus subtilis to hydrolyze the PPW in submerged fermentation. Optimization of physical parameters was performed using both commercial and indigenous media from enzymatically hydrolyzed PPW. Different routes of various combinations were designed to enhance bioethanol production. The maximum ethanol titer of 0.50% and 0.41% was recorded in Route B and A, i.e., separate saccharification and ethanol fermentation and consolidated fermentation. Simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) also measured a good ethanol yield of 0.46%. The fermented residual cake was checked for nutritional components and showed a high content of protein and amino acids because of the addition of unicellular yeasts. This cake can be utilized as an animal feed supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the relationship between ethical leadership and employees' pro-social rule-breaking behavior, with a focus on the mediating role of psychological empowerment and the moderating effect of moral identity. Grounded in social cognitive theory, data from 515 nursing staff in public and private hospitals in Pakistan were collected at three different time points and analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS SEM). Contrary to expectations, our findings reveal a positive association between ethical leadership and employees' pro-social rule-breaking behavior. Additionally, we find that psychological empowerment mediates this relationship, while moral identity moderates it. These results highlight the paradoxical nature of ethical leadership, challenging the conventional understanding of its universally positive impact and highlighting its unintended consequences. The results also underscore the need to consider employees' psychological processes and individual differences in understanding this complex relationship. The study provides insights into the complexities of ethical leadership in organizations and offers implications for theory and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healthcare at home is considered a partial substitute for institutional long-term care, because patients and families with known poor prognoses prefer to stay home with their loved ones and are unable to pay for hospital care at the end of life in some countries. Purpose: To explore patients' and family members' perspectives and experiences of receiving home-based palliative care services. Method: This was a qualitative exploratory study conducted in Karachi, targeting patients and family members receiving home-based palliative care services. The data collection was done via interviews, and simultaneously, the interviewer recorded field notes, which were all carried out within the confines of the participants' homes. Moreover, the subjects were recruited through purposive sampling, resulting in a total of six patients and six family members. The final number of participants was determined based on data saturation. The inclusion criteria encompassed individuals of all genders, aged 18 and above, and residents of Karachi, Pakistan. Those who were not able to provide information, due to any reason, were excluded from the study. The study adhered strictly to ethical considerations. Findings: The study uncovered several significant themes that provide valuable insights, including caregivers' availability, patients' inclusiveness, improved dietary pattern, psychological wellbeing, and rapid recovery in home-based care. Furthermore, the study identified themes on providing home-based palliative care, like family members' education and keeping back-ups for unforeseen situations. In contrast, the themes identified as home-based care preference over hospital care were: experienced compromised care, hospital anxiety, restricted to the available resources and higher hospital living expenses for patients and family members. Conclusion: The study underscored the importance of adopting a patient-centric approach. It has become evident that the comfort and familiarity of one's home environment provide a conducive backdrop for holistic healing and wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review addresses the fragmented literature on administrative interventions for cybercrime mitigation within e-government services, which often prioritise technological aspects over a unified theoretical framework. By analysing 32 peer-reviewed articles from the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases, supplemented by additional sources located through Google Scholar, this study synthesises factors within the technical, managerial and behavioural domains using the Theory, Context and Method (TCM) framework. The findings reveal a predominant focus on managerial and technical factors, with behavioural aspects frequently overlooked. Cybercrime mitigation is often treated as a procedural step rather than a holistic process. This study advocates a well-established, context-specific mitigation plan, integrating regional factors through the Human–Organisation–Technology (HOT) framework to develop a comprehensive model for effective cybercrime mitigation in e-government services. This research has practical, theoretical and policy implications, offering actionable insights for improving operational practices, advancing theoretical frameworks and guiding policymakers in formulating effective cybercrime mitigation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercial dyes from industrial sector contribute significantly to environmental contamination. This research work focuses on the elimination of synthetic anionic dye through batch investigation employing adsorption technique. Chemical Sol–gel synthesis approach was employed to synthesize the adsorbents. The novelty of this work involves the utilization of the following chemicals Ni(NO3)2, Cu(NO3)2, Fe(NO3)3, and Co(NO3)2 used as reducing metals to prepare metal-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (Co/ZnO, Ni/ZnO, Fe/ZnO, and Cu/ZnO). The synthesized metal-doped ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by using FTIR, BET, SEM and XRD, zeta potential analysis. The optimum pH for direct orange (RDO) dye was detected in an acidic range which was 7 for Co/ZnO (87.40 mg/g), 3 for Ni/ZnO (83.13 mg/g), 5 for Fe/ZnO (79.31 mg/g), and 5 for Cu/ZnO (69.41 mg/g). The optimum dosage for all nanoparticle was found 0.05 g/50 mL and showed best adsorption for Co/ZnO 86.78 mg/g, Ni/ZnO 78.54 mg/g, Fe/ZnO 70/mg/g, and Cu/ZnO 59.64 mg/g. The initial concentration of dye from 25 to 250 mg/L was determined to be optimal for the maximum remediation of anionic dye using several adsorbents. The best removal was achieved at 100 ppm by Co/ZnO (84.61 mg/g) and (Ni/ZnO), while Fe/ZnO (72.51 mg/g), and Cu/ZnO (68.65 mgg/g) achieved maximum adsorption capacity at 150 ppm. The highest adsorption capacity was found by Co/ZnO (90.31 mg/g) at 43 min, Ni/ZnO (81.31 mg/g) at 49 min, Fe/ZnO (78.75 mg/g) at 75 min, and by Cu/ZnO (71.75 mg/g) at 90 min with optimal temperature at 37 °C. A decrease in temperature resulted in decline of adsorption capacity of the adsorbents. It demonstrated the release of heat in the complex during the adsorptive removal of negatively charged RDO dye molecules. The Langmuir adsorption isotherms revealed the highest correlation with the equilibrium data, while the pseudo 2nd order model demonstrated an acceptable fit with the adsorption kinetic data. Various thermodynamic factors like enthalpy free energy and entropy were investigated. Highlights: Use of Ni, Cu, Fe, Co metals doped-ZnO as adsorbents to remove anionic dyes. Optimal dye removal conditions found: pH, temperature, dosage, time explored. Co/ZnO nanoparticles showed highest dye adsorption capacity in experiments. Study confirms Langmuir isotherm and pseudo 2nd order model fit for adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial activities are paramount to sustaining the economy in a rapidly developing nation and global powerhouse like India. Leather industries are important in the country's economic map due to the high revenue and employment generation opportunities. Several of these industries contribute largely to environmental pollution. The pollution of the environment is mainly caused by improper disposal of the tannery effluents that are highly rich in hexavalent chromium, a potent human carcinogen. Hexavalent chromium imparts toxic effects on the biotic components, which include plants, animals, and humans. The review portrays the current status of the Indian leather tanning sector and its impact on the Indian economy. The process of chromium tanning and its adverse effects on the environmental biotic components have been briefly discussed. Phytoremediation of these effluents using suitable hyperaccumulating plants has been suggested as an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach for the sustainable restoration of the polluted environment. The mechanism behind the remediation approach and the factors influencing it have been detailed. The manuscript briefly discusses some important advancements in the field of phytoremediation and emerging technologies and concludes by emphasizing further research for sustainable management of tannery wastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water contamination is a serious issue that has an impact on the whole globe. In the current work, adsorption technique was used to remove synthetic Reactive Blue MEBF 222 textile dye utilizing Cd-doped Co (Co1 − xCd1.5xFeO3), Zn-doped Co (Co1 − xZn1.5xFeO3), Cr-doped Co (Co1 − xCr1.5xFeO3), Zn-doped Ni (Ni1 − xZn1.5xFeO3), and Cr-doped Ni (Ni1 − xCr1.5xFeO3) perovskites, synthesized by sol–gel auto-combustion approach. According to the findings of batch adsorption studies, maximum adsorption was observed at pH 3 (45.62 mg/g), 0.01 g/50 ml dosage (36.67 mg/g), 60 min (14.31 mg/g), 100 ppm dye concentration (47.41 mg/g), and 308 K (35.96 mg/g) for Co1 − xCd1.5xFeO3; at 3 pH (42.94 mg/g), 0.01 g/50 ml dosage (35.33 mg/g), 60 min (12.88 mg/g), 100 ppm dye concentration (40.52 mg/g), and 308 K (31.31 mg/g) for Co1 − xZn1.5xFeO3; at 2 pH (38.82 mg/g), 0.01 g/50 ml dosage (32.20 mg/g), 60 min (11.98 mg/g), 100 ppm dye concentration (33.54 mg/g), and 308 K (29.34 mg/g) for Co1 − xCr1.5xFeO3; at 2 pH (34.97 mg/g), 0.01 g/50 ml dosage (30.41 mg/g), 60 min (10.46 mg/g), 100 ppm dye concentration (27.19 mg/g), and 308 K (26.12 mg/g) for Ni1 − xZn1.5xFeO3; and at 2 pH (31.22 mg/g), 0.01 g/50 ml dosage (25.04 mg/g), 60 min (9.48 mg/g), 100 ppm dye concentration (21.73 mg/g), and 308 K (23.61 mg/g) for Ni1 − xCr1.5xFeO3. The pseudo-second-order model showed good fitness for adsorption kinetic data. Electrolytes, detergents/surfactants, and heavy metal ions had a substantial impact on the adsorption potential. The column adsorption experiments demonstrated optimal bed height, flow rate, and intake dye concentration to be 3 cm, 1.8 ml/min, and 70 mg/l, respectively, in the column experiment. With an adsorption capacity of 44.1 mg/g, reactive blue (RB) 222 dye was able to achieve its maximum adsorption. Detailed desorption of RB 222 dye was also achieved. The novelty of this adsorption method lies in its eco-friendliness, ease of handling, and cost-effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]