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Insect pests are exposed to repeated applications of pesticides to effectively manage the pest species. This induces insecticide resistance and resurgence of target insect pest, along with an accelerated growth rate of the targeted individual. The present experiment was put into execution to examine transgenerational hormesis against different biological parameters of Phenacoccus solenopsis when exposed to sublethal concentrations of Pyriproxyfen (Pyriproxyfen® 10 EC) and Buprofezin (Buprofezin® 25 WP). Insects exhibited concentration-dependent mortality diminishing in succeeding generations. P. solenopsis receiving the sublethal concentration of LC10 (0.03%) of Pyriproxyfen® exhibited hormesis in natality in generation G-4 (1282.4 nymphs/20 females) and G-5 (1296.2 nymphs/20 females). The adult female exposed to LC10 (0.02%) of Buprofezin® also expressed hormesis in natality in G-4 (1261.5 nymphs/20 females) and G-5 (1282.8 nymphs/20 females). Hormesis in female longevity was also found when treated with a sublethal concentration of LC10 for Pyriproxyfen® (0.03%) in G-4 (46.41 days) and G-5(46.35 days). Similarly, adults in G-4 and G-5 at a sublethal concentration of LC10 (0.02%) for Buprofezin® induced hormesis 45.53 days and 46.69 days, respectively, whereas in G-4 (4.79 days) and G-5 (4.92 days) at stimulatory concentrations of LC10 (0.03%) for pyriproxyfen®. The research findings indicate that the consistent application of sublethal concentrations can elicit stimulatory effects on various biological traits. This highlights insects’ remarkable ability to adapt to stressors. It is imperative to consider this aspect when incorporating pest management programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tick-borne diseases affecting domestic animals and humans have increased globally in recent years. Pakistan, in particular, faces a significant economic threat from ticks, where two specific species, Rhipicephalus microplus and Hyalomma anatolicum, act as vectors for various pathogens such as piroplasma, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, and Rickettsia that pose a significant burden on livestock production in the country. To better understand the risk that tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) pose to livestock in Pakistan, we conducted a cross-sectional study of the occurrence, diversity, and coinfection of these pathogens in small and large ruminants owned by small farms as well as in ticks collected from these animals. We collected blood samples from 224 cattle, 224 buffalo, 69 goats, and 56 sheep, gathered from 112 farms located in seven districts of Punjab, one of Pakistan's largest province. In addition, we collected a total of 476 ticks attached to these animals. Based on the identification of tick species through morphology and sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene, we confirmed that the most commonly collected tick species were Rh. microplus (38.65% of all individuals), H. anatolicum (31.93%), and Rh. decoloratus (8.40%). Notable pathogens detected in the collected ticks included Theileria annulata (18.4% prevalence), Anaplasma ovis (15.79%), A. centrale (13.16%), and Rickettsia slovaca (13.16%). In blood samples, the most frequently detected pathogens were T. annulata (n = 8), Babesia bovis (n = 7), A. centrale (n = 6), and B. bigemina (n = 5). In some cases, both cattle and buffaloes were found to be coinfected with B. bovis, T. annulata, and A. centrale. These findings provide valuable insights into the circulation of TBPs in livestock and highlight the need for further research on the epidemiological risk that these pathogens pose to ruminants in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: Bullying is increasing daily among healthcare professionals. Nursing students (NS) are particularly victimized due to their novelty in nursing. The objective of the current study was to find out the frequency of bullying behavior, sources (perpetrators), and coping strategies among NS in Karachi, Pakistan. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among NS at the Dow Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan. The study duration was three months. Purposive sampling was applied to recruit the participants in the study. NS, who were bullied, were included in the study. Unwilling participants were excluded from the study. An adapted questionnaire was administered for data collection. According to its objectives, this study adapted the bullying behavior of nursing education questionnaire (BBNEQ) from previous studies. The data was analyzed and entered into SPSS version 26.0, and frequencies of different types of bullying, sources (perpetrators), and coping strategies were concluded through percentages, means, and standard deviations. The chi-square test was used to determine the association between frequencies of bully behavior and its sources and coping strategies by considering 95% C.I. and p-value <0.05, which are considered significant. For a pictorial view, a bar chart depicted the frequency of bullying at the nursing institute and during clinicals. RESULTS: Out of 300 NSs, 193 (64.3%) were bullied in their clinical practice, and 35 (11.7%) reported bullying in nursing school. The frequency of bullying behavior was significantly (p≤0.001) associated with the source and coping strategies among NS. There were 171 seniors (57.0%) who regularly bully NS, 117 teachers (39.0%) who sometimes bully NS, and 145 physicians (48.3%) who rarely bully NS. Most female NS, 84 (28.0%), did nothing, and the highest proportion of male NS directly, 60 (20.0%), spoke to the perpetrator. CONCLUSION: The present study found that most NS were bullied in clinical settings. Senior nurses and teachers were substantial sources of bullying among NS. Most NS did nothing as a coping strategy to combat bullying behavior. The sources of bullying behavior and coping strategies were significantly associated with the frequency of bullying behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some generalized Ostrowski-type integral inequalities for r-times differentiable functions whose absolute values are MT-convex have been discussed. Moreover, some applications on special bivariate means are obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild edible plants have gained attention due to growing concerns for global food security. Nutrient contents are frequently determined for wild edible plants identified from ethnobotanical surveys. In this article, we conducted an ethnobotanical survey at the study site and collected twenty-one wild plants for evaluating their relative nutrient indices. Our results suggested that the tubers of Colocasia esculenta had the highest macronutrients, fruits of Spondias pinnata had high vitamins, the leaves of Colocasia esculenta and Chenopodium giganteum had high dietary fibres, and leaves of Digera muricata were rich in minerals. Thus, these plants can offer a basis for developing dietary supplements and nutraceuticals on a commercial scale, which may help in achieving the sustainable development goal of zero hunger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing the effects of land use and land cover (LULC) on ecosystem service values (ESVs) is critical for public understanding and policymaking. This study evaluated the impacts of LULC dynamics on ESVs in Chandigarh city of India. The assessment of LULC changes was performed by analyzing the satellite imagery of the study area for the years 1990 and 2020 with different band combinations in ArcGIS (10.8 version software). In addition, we analyzed ecosystem services changes which were based on the LULC classes of the study area. Five LULC classes were identified in the present study area (Water bodies, forest and vegetation, built-up, agriculture and shrubland and open spaces). The results demonstrated (from 1990 to 2020) that the forest cover and agricultural areas decreased by 4.19% and 37.01%, respectively, whereas the built-up area substantially increased by 104.61%. Overall, ESV decreased by 2.54% from 1990 to 2020 due to rapid urbanization. The combination of LULC and ecosystem services valuation can increase our understanding of different issues of an urban ecosystem. Hence, we recommend the integration of LULC and ecosystem services valuation as a tool that could provide information to policymakers, urban planners and land managers for sustainable use in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we establish a Bullen-type generalized fractional integral identity for the differentiable functions and derive some new estimates for the Bullen-type fractional integral inequalities via the Raina fractional integrals. Further examples are given to indicate the validity of obtained results. Lastly, some error estimates for the quadrature rules are provided, and to find applications for our results to information theory, we proved a new generalization based on f-divergence measure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coxiellosis, also known as Q fever, is a zoonotic disease caused by Coxiella burnetii, a gram-negative bacterium that exerts a significant deleterious impact on the productive and reproductive capabilities of livestock, severely effecting the economics of this sector. In this study, 448 sera samples from cattle (n = 224) and buffalo (n = 224) were collected from 112 farms in Pakistan and examined for antibodies against C. burnetii using an indirect ELISA. Ticks were also collected from these animals. Serological analysis revealed a 23.66% and 27.23% seroprevalence of Q fever in cattle and buffalo, respectively. Odds ratio (OR) analysis of the factors associated with C. burnetii seropositivity was performed, and a multivariable logistic model identified five main variables associated with the seropositivity for coxiellosis. These were: (i) the absence of acaricide use (OR 5.61; 95% CI 2.97–10.94); (ii) the presence of ticks (OR 3.23; 95% CI 1.87–5.69); (iii) the abortion history during the preceding year on the farm (OR 14.96; 95% CI 8.09–29.34); (iv) the presence of sheep and goats (OR 2.47; 95% CI 1.20–5.35); and (v) the absence of a separate parturition area (OR 3.17; 95% CI 1.76–5.86). This study provides new insights into the seroprevalence of Q fever in large ruminants across seven studied districts of Punjab, Pakistan, also providing baseline data to inform improved herd management and on-farm practices for the prevention and control of Q fever in large ruminants in the region. Results of this work suggest that further molecular investigation of coxiellosis is warranted to provide a more thorough evaluation of C. burnetii epidemiology in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating issue of air pollution has become a significant concern in urban regions, including Islamabad, Pakistan, due to the rise in air pollutant emissions driven by economic and industrial expansion. To gain a deeper understanding of air pollution, a study was conducted during winter 2022–2023, assessing physical, chemical, and biological factors in Islamabad. The findings revealed that the average concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was notably greater than the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, reaching 133.39 μg/m³. Additionally, the average concentration of bacteria (308.64 CFU/m³) was notably greater than that of fungi (203.55 CFU/m³) throughout the study. Analytical analyses, including SEM-EDS and FTIR, showed that the PM2.5 in Islamabad is composed of various particles such as soot aggregates, coal fly ash, minerals, bio-particles, and some unidentified particles. EF analysis distinguished PM2.5 sources, enhancing understanding of pollutants origin, whereas Spearman's correlation analysis elucidated constituent interactions, further explaining air quality impact. The results from the Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) indicated a gradual increase in the total elemental composition of PM2.5 from autumn to winter, maintaining high levels throughout the winter season. Furthermore, a significant variation was found in the mass concentration of PM2.5 when comparing samples collected in the morning and evening. The study also identified the presence of semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) in PM2.5 samples, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and phenolic compounds, with notable variations in their concentrations. Utilizing health risk assessment models developed by the US EPA, we estimated the potential health risks associated with PM2.5 exposure, highlighting the urgency of addressing air quality issues. These findings provide valuable insights into the sources and composition of PM2.5 in Islamabad, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of air quality and its potential environmental and health implications. [Display omitted] • Islamabad's winter air hit alarming PM2.5 levels at 133.39 μg/m³, exceeding WHO's recommended limit of 25 μg/m³. • Significant bacterial dominance (308.64 CFU/m³) over fungi (203.55 CFU/m³) revealed. • SEM-EDS and FTIR unveil PM2.5 composition: soot, ash, minerals, bio-particles. • SVOCs like PAHs and phenolic compounds identified, posing potential health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ticks are considered the second most important pathogens' vectors after mosquitoes. Ticks are responsible for transmitting many diseases not only in animals but humans as well. In Pakistan, ticks are a source of many livestock diseases such as babesiosis, theileriosis, Crimean‑Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) and many more, creating huge economic losses and zoonotic risks for the human population. Keeping in mind the important role of ticks, we compiled tick species data - of Pakistan, based on a review of the tick-related literature published between 1947 and early 2021. We focused only on those studies which included ticks identified from cattle, buffaloes, sheep, and goats. A total of -seven tick genera, including 30 tick species, were identified from cattle and buffaloes from 42 districts of Pakistan. Regarding ticks infesting sheep and goats, seven tick genera, including 40 tick species, from 45 districts of Pakistan were reported. Our study revealed how tick fauna has been updated with the identification of a variety of tick species from the different districts and territories of Pakistan according to time. The tick fauna list compiled here provides a complete picture of tick species recorded in Pakistan to date and will help to predict future economic risks and potential animal health losses associated with these pests, which could be mitigated through proper implementation of tick control and prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, all scientists are in the race to find a cure for COVID-19. This is a viral disease that is due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Different antiviral drugs are under investigation. Dexamethasone is being used for the treatment of COVID-19. In this article, the chemical structure of dexamethasone is explored using computational techniques such as topological indices. Proofs of a few closed formulas that describe the degree-dependent topological indices calculated from the M-polynomial of the graphs are also given in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis is a severe contagious disease that causes reproductive failure and has zoonotic potential with profound public health importance. It is one of the most important bacterial diseases, with more than 500,000 human cases annually worldwide. Human infection is acquired by consumption of unpasteurized milk or through direct contact with the infected animals or their aborted fetuses. The present study aimed to appraise the livestock owners' knowledge, attitude, and practices related to brucellosis in Punjab, Pakistan. Among the livestock owners, 600 were interviewed to collect their knowledge about brucellosis and its zoonotic importance. The study population comprised smallholder dairy farmers having - up to 20 animals in their household. Of the 600 respondents, 61.3% and 87.3% were unaware of the term brucellosis and its zoonotic potential. Correlations show that the farmers' educational status was positively associated with knowledge of the zoonotic potential of brucellosis (p < 0.001). More than 60% of the participants did not - suspect unpasteurized milk and raw meat as potential infection sources. Eighty-five per cent of the workers were found to be unaware about their local diagnostic test facility for brucellosis. Contact with aborted fetuses and other potential sources of infection without protective measures were common. Our study results delineated the association of diagnosed positive herd history for brucellosis on extending their calving period after abortion (p < 0.001). Our study indicated that the knowledge of brucellosis among the livestock owners was inadequate, which may increase the zoonotic risk. To improve awareness, extensive control programs are needed with a focus on rural and underdeveloped areas of the country to prevent animal-to-human transmission and reduce the disease incidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytophagous whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) causes serious crop yield losses around the world especially by vectoring viruses. Exogenous jasmonic acid (JA) induces direct plant resistance to B. tabaci, but the underlying mechanism of JA‐induced exogenous defenses is not well understood. Here, we demonstrate that exogenous JA not only increases the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) in tomato mesophyll cells but also induces the expression of Ca2+‐sensor genes and plant defense genes. Pre‐treatment with Ca2+ inhibitor (ruthenium red) significantly repressed the elevation of [Ca2+]cyt, expression of JA‐induced genes, and emission of plant volatiles induced by JA, thus reducing the JA‐induced direct (feeding choice and fitness of B. tabaci) and indirect [olfactory choice and parasitism by the parasitoid Encarsia formosa Gahan (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae)] plant resistance to B. tabaci. These results indicate that the Ca2+ signal induced by JA mediates and directs the plants defenses against whitefly. Present results will not only give us a better understanding of how exogenous JA influences the crop community, but also deliver some clues for the potential application of exogenous JA, as a plant elicitor, in whitefly management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Zinc is an essential micronutrient required for optimum plant growth. Zinc-solubilizing bacteria convert applied inorganic zinc to available forms that could be used by plants. Research design: In present study, experiments were conducted to isolate, characterize, and evaluate Zn solubilization potential of different bacteria. Results: Among 10 isolated strains, Pseudomonas protegens (RY2, MF351762) was found to be the most promising strain having zinc-solubilizing potential on 4 different insoluble zinc sources. In quantitative assay, Zn solubilization by RY2 was significantly higher than other strains at different incubation time. P. protegens RY2 was selected (based on zinc solubilizing and plant growth promoting activities like P solubilization and ACC deaminase) for plant experiments. Meanwhile, available Zn release rate in soil was determined at day 10 of incubation. Chickpea seeds were inoculated with RY2 strain and ZnO is used as zinc source. Growth parameters and quantifying zinc content of shoot and root using atomic absorption spectrophotometer were determined. Enhanced shoot and root dry weights and lengths were observed in chickpea plants compared to control. Maximum increase of 44%, 67%, and 75% in T2 (Soil + RY2), T5 (Soil + ZnO + RY2), and T7 (Soil + manure + ZnO + RY2), respectively, was found in shoot length compared to control (T1). Conclusion: The study indicated that zinc-solubilizing RY2 strain possesses potential for enhanced Zn in soil so it would allow reduced inorganic Zn application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the current study was to analyze nursing workload and patient satisfaction in Civil Hospital, Karachi. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at the cardiology department of Dr. Ruth K. M. Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi after approval from the ethical committee and written consent from all enrolled patients. Data were collected from May to October 2018 and a purposive sampling technique was used, a total of 162 patients participated, including age > 18 years and hospital stay > 2 days, and unconscious patients were excluded. Two questionnaires were adopted: Nursing workload and patient safety and modified Heather K. Laschinger Research Tool patient satisfaction with the quality of nursing care questionnaire (PSNCQQ). The data were analyzed through SPSS 20 RESULTS: Higher means (3.91±0.276) score of patient satisfaction was found in the adequate workload group of nurses as compared to more work loaded(2.948 ±1.06) nurses. 04 care-related indicators were significantly associated with nursing workload (Injury, infection, bedsore, allergic reaction from any side effects of medications)while 03 were not significantly associated (urinary tract infection, confused identity of patient and wrong medication) by considering P value<0.05. CONCLUSION: The findings of the study showed that the majority of the patients were satisfied with those nurses who had adequate workload and four care-related indicators were significantly associated with the nursing workload. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

he current discovery of different types of nanostructures has inspired the researcher to study the applications of these structures in different fields. In this study, we have analyzed the boron triangular nanotube through topological indices. M-polynomial of a boron triangular nanotube has the capability to recover the topological indices which are dependent on the degree of the vertex. We have presented the results in graphical form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study Tsallis holographic dark energy model with generalized ghost as an infrared cutoff in the context of Dvali–Gabadadze–Porrati braneworld and loop quantum cosmology with infrared cutoff for flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker (FRW) universe. In these directions, we develop some cosmological parameters such as equation of state, deceleration parameter, squared speed of sound and O m (combination of Hubble and cosmos redshift parameter) diagnostic to analyze the expansion of the universe. The cosmic planes such as ω d − ω d ′ and r − s are also being established. We also compare these parameters and planes with recent Planck data 2018 which represents the consistency in most of the cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strain engineering plays a vital role in controlling the physical properties of two-dimensional (2D) materials. However, the nanomechanical behavior of atomically thin 2D crystals under strain has not been completely understood. Here, strain-induced hierarchical ripple nanostructures in triangular MoS2 flakes were investigated by advanced atomic force microscopy and optical spectral measurements. The hierarchical nanoripples exhibited a threefold radial pattern, and their mechanical, electronic, and optical spectra characteristics were significantly modified due to the suffering from large tensile strain. Structure evolution of these hierarchical nanoripples was further discussed based on the geometry and thickness of MoS2 flakes, and we attributed the curtain effect at the limit of a single atomic layer. Our study will be beneficial in designing nanomechanical structures and prototype electromechanical devices with 2D materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By utilizing the degree of the vertex of the graphs, M-polynomials of book graph obtained and examined in this paper. The various vertex degree dependent indices of book graph can be calculated readily by using the proposed M-Polynomials of the book graph. We also give graphical representation of the calculated topological indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to assess the extent of knowledge and understanding of rabies disease in rural and urban communities of Pakistan. It also identified malpractices after suspected dog bite that might pose a risk for humans contracting rabies.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted (n = 1466) on people having different age groups and educational levels in four different geographic regions of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces in Pakistan. Knowledge, attitude, and practices of people were assessed using a structured questionnaire. We used a bivariate and multivariate analysis to study the association between rabies related mortalities in near or extended family members and different risk behaviors.Results: Our results demonstrate that the majority of the juvenile population (less than 18 years of age) were not aware of the clinical signs of rabies in animals. 75% of the total respondents were not vaccinated against rabies, 60% did not seek a doctor's advice after a suspected animal bite, and 55% had inadequate health care facilities for rabies patients in local hospitals. Respondents that had pets at home had not vaccinated (38%; p < 0.05; odds ratio 1.58) themselves against rabies due to lack of knowledge and awareness of pre-exposure prophylaxis for rabies (51%; p < 0.05; odds ratio 1.25). They also tend to not visit doctor after suspected bite (52%; p < 0.05; odds ratio 1.97), which may had resulted in more deaths (65%; p < 0.05; odds ratio 1.73) of someone in their near or extended family due to rabies.Conclusions: Lack of knowledge about the nature of rabies disease and prophylaxis has contributed to increase of rabies related deaths. Inadequate health care facilities and poor attitude of not seeking medical attention after suspected dog bite are the major reasons of rabies related deaths. These findings could help in devising a targeted management strategy and awareness program to control and reduce the incidence of human rabies related deaths in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we studied the cosmological implications of generalized ghost Tsallis holographic dark energy in the framework of Randall–Sundrum II braneworld and Chern–Simons modified gravity in flat FRW universe. We discuss the cosmological parameters like equation of state parameter, deceleration parameter, squared speed of sound, Om-diagnostic and planes like evolving equation of state parameter and statefinders. These models yield useful results in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to initiate the concept of Intuitionistic Fuzzy(IF) soft boundary. We discuss and explore the characterizations and properties of IF soft boundary in general as well as in terms of IF soft interior and IF soft closure. Examples and counter examples are also presented to validate the discussed results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we introduce and investigate new classes of normalized analytic functions in an open unit disk with bounded radius and bounded boundary rotation by using the subordination. We discuss inclusion results, co-efficient bounds, growth and distortion theorems of the classes. Moreover, we compute the radii of strong starlikeness, convexity and starlikeness of the classes. It is interesting to mention that most of our findings are best possible as compared to the existing results in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generalized Fink-type identity for multi-variables to an arbitrary time scales is obtained, giving some multi-variate Ostrowski, Iyengar and Grüss-type inequalities unifying the corresponding continuous and discrete version. Some new applications to generalized polynomials are also obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Coagulation performances of novel titanium (III) chloride (TiCl 3) was studied. • TiCl 3 showed a significantly higher capacity for DOC removal at optimum pH and dose. • Flocs formed by TiCl 3 were larger in size than that from alum at optimum pH and dose. • Charge neutralization was the dominant removal mechanism for DOC removal by TiCl 3. • TiCl 3 could be used in the treatment of low alkalinity water and low pH wastewaters. Abstract Problems caused by residual organics in treated water include the formation of disinfection by-products (DBP) following reaction with chlorine and being a substrate for microbial regrowth in the drinking water distribution system. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) can only be partially removed by conventional treatment process i.e. coagulation by Al- and Fe-based salts. In the present study, the performance of titanium trichloride (TiCl 3) as a coagulant for surface water treatment was studied and compared with conventionally used aluminum sulfate (alum). Jar test experiments were performed at various coagulant doses and pH levels to determine the optimum conditions based on removal efficiencies of dissolved organic carbon (DOC). The zeta potential values were analysed for assessing the destabilisation mechanism of DOM flocs. The TiCl 3 showed a significantly higher capacity for DOC removal at pH around 3 at which charge neutralization was found to be the dominant mechanism for the floc formation. This was further evident from the relatively larger floc sizes obtained with TiCl 3 treatment. However, destabilization of Ti-flocs occurred at pH 4.5 through an adsorption-enmeshment mechanism due to a highly negative zeta potential. Additionally, fluorescence spectroscopic analyses showed that TiCl 3 was more efficient than alum in removing humic compounds. A two-stage treatment process by alum and TiCl 3 , either as the same chemical or both showed better performance than a single dose treatment. The results indicate that TiCl 3 could be an effective alternative coagulant for the treatment of waters, particularly those of low alkalinity and high DOC concentration and low pH wastewaters for removal of hydrophobic compounds and particulate matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to evaluate the potential of the fungus Cunninghamella elegans for simultaneous decolourisation of a triphenylmethane dye malachite green (MG) and hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] in the same media. This fungus can degrade MG through its reduction into leucomalachite green and then demethylation followed by oxidative cleavage. Along with MG degradation, C. elegans biofilm could effectively and repeatedly remove Cr(VI) from the liquid cultures even in the presence of high concentrations (40 g L −1 ) of NaCl and various other metal ions. C. elegans biofilm was also found to adsorb different dyes (reactive black-5, acid orange 7, direct red 81 and brilliant blue G) concurrently with Cr(VI). Based on its potential for simultaneous removal of dyes and Cr(VI) as well as reusability, C. elegans biofilm is envisaged as an efficient bioresource to devise strategies for treatment of wastewaters loaded with multiple pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we establish some new Hermite-Hadamard type integral inequalities for (s;m)-convex functions, utilizing the fractional integrals. We observe and prove that these results have some relationship with the obtained results of [10, 11]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, new inequalities connected with the celebrated Steffensen's integral inequality are proved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors have introduced the concept of logarithmically relative h-preinvex function which is a generalized form of previously known concepts [9, 11], and try to establish some new Hermite-Hadamard type integral inequalities for functions whose absolute values of nth derivatives are logarithmically relative h-preinvex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to initiate and discuss the properties and characterizations of soft semi-Ti and soft semi-Di(for i = 0; 1; 2) spaces at soft point by analyzing the relationship among them. We also introduce and explore the properties of soft S-continuous functions. These results will be useful to enhance the theoretical framework and to promote further study towards the daily life applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO) usually presents with upper gastrointestinal bleed in the first decade. Symptomatic portal hypertensive biliopathy is seen in minority of patients with EHPVO. With the use of endoscopic intervention, biliary drainage is maintained in these patients. Various procedural complications have been linked while performing endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and stenting; however, these are managed conservatively. Here, we are highlighting a case of EHPVO with symptomatic portal biliopathy who bled from paracholedochal collateral after biliary stenting and managed successfully with multidisciplinary approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, lanthanum doping on corannulene (C 20 H 10) buckybowls has been explored for their geometrical, electronic and nonlinear optical (NLO) properties via DFT simulations. The interaction energies of −21.75 to −40.01 kcal/mol reflect that A-D complexes are thermodynamically stable. The HOMO-LUMO energy gaps of designed complexes are decreased significantly up to 48.92%. A maximum charge transfer of 1.452 |e| is observed for complex A as revealed by natural bond orbital analysis. Non-covalent interaction (NCI) and quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) analyses have confirmed the presence of various interactions in the complexes. The complexes are transparent in UV–Visible region and absorption maxima fall near infrared region (1123–2032 nm). The highest nonlinear optical response in terms of first hyperpolarizability value of 5.08 × 104 au is observed for complex C. The hyper-Rayleigh scattering (β HRS) and frequency dependent hyperpolarizability coefficients including electro-optical Pockel's effect and second harmonic generation are also computed theoretically. • Lanthanum doped corannulene (C 20 H 10) complexes have been designed and investigated for better NLO response. • The interaction energy values (−21.75 to −40.01 kcal/mol) of A-D complexes reflected that the designed complexes are stable. • The nature of interactions and intermolecular charge transfer is studied by NCI, QTAIM and NBO analyses. • The designed complexes are transparent in UV–Visible region and have maximum absorption (1123–2032 nm) in infrared region. • The highest first hyperpolarizability up to 5.08 × 104 au has been obtained for complex C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beam position monitoring (BPM) systems are crucial in particle acceleration facilities such as linear and circular accelerators. They are used to maintain a stable and precise beam position to achieve a high level of beam quality. BPMs are also essential for accelerator commissioning, performance optimisation, and fault analysis. Beam functional properties information, such as displacement from the desired axis, information about synchrotron oscillations and betatron movements can be derived from data gathered in BPM systems. Medical linear accelerators (linacs) also employ beam position measurements to ensure optimal generation of treatment radiation. The most common form of analysis is to use a multi-physics based approach and model the beam as a stream of electrons, often involving Monte Carlo implementation - an accurate but computationally expensive approach. This paper presents a simple, but robust and efficient, CST microwave model of the linear accelerator (linac) beam, generated using a simplified approach to beam modeling that uses a conducting filament in place of the particle. This approach is validated by comparison with published work. An approach to BPM using the method applied in this paper opens up opportunities to further analyze the overall design and that of components of particle accelerator systems using commonly available full-wave electromagnetic simulators without the need to include specific particle solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remediation of colored textile wastewaters is a matter of interest. In this study, 49 bacteria were isolated from the textile wastewater and tested for their ability to decolorize reactive yellow-2 (RY2) dye. The most efficient isolate, RN34, was identified through amplification, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis of its 16S rDNA and was designated as Serratia sp. RN34. This bacterium was also found capable of decolorizing other related reactive azo-dyes, including reactive black-5, reactive red-120, and reactive orange-16 but at varying rates. The optimum pH for decolorization of RY2 by the strain RN34 was 7.5 using yeast extract as cosubstrate under static incubation at 30 °C. The strain RN34 also showed potential to decolorize RY2 in the presence of considerable amounts of hexavalent chromium and sodium chloride. A phytotoxicity study demonstrated relatively reduced toxicity of RY2 decolorized products on Vigna radiata plant as compared to the uninoculated RY2 solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenylurea herbicides are world widely used for controlling the development of various broad leaf weeds in cereal crops. Despite their agronomic interest, these herbicides are of environmental concern because they are often detected at concentrations above the threshold concentration imposed by legislation in soil and water worldwide. Understanding the fate of these pollutants is as such of major importance and has been the subject of many scientific studies in the last decades. This review article presents an overview of the abiotic and biotic processes governing the environmental fate of phenylurea herbicides after their application to agricultural fields. More precisely, it highlights the pivotal role of biodegradation in natural attenuation of pesticides in agricultural soils. The recent advances in the microbial aspects of their degradation in the field as well as in pure cultures are presented including metabolic pathways, processes, and factors that control the biodegradation of phenylurea herbicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is a well-known inflammatory chemokine and suggested to be involved in the development of acne vulgaris. This study investigates IL-8 plasma levels in acne patients and healthy controls and the molecular basis for the regulation of the IL-8 gene in a Pakistani population. Patients with acne vulgaris (n = 264) and healthy individuals (n = 264) were enrolled in this investigation. Plasma IL-8 levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The genotyping for IL-8 gene was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Our data showed a statistically significant increase in IL-8 levels from acne patients compared with healthy subjects (154.2 ± 52.1 pg/mL in patients vs. 101.6 ± 33.5 pg/mL in controls, p<0.0001). The IL-8-251T>A (rs4073) polymorphism was significantly higher in patients with acne compared with the control group (p=0.013). There was a significant difference between the T and A alleles from acne cases and controls (odds ratio OR=1.6,95 % CI= 1.16-2.19, p=0.003). Logistic-regression analysis showed that the increased IL-8 levels, and the IL-8-251T>A polymorphism were significantly associated with acne. Our data suggest that the elevated IL-8 levels and the IL-8-251T>A polymorphism may be associated with acne vulgaris in the study population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A case–control and trio-families study was performed to establish a potential association between TNF-alpha gene promoter SNPs at -308 and -238, and occurrence of CAD in a Pakistani population. In the first phase, 150 patients and 150 controls were enrolled in the case–control association study. In the second phase, heritability of susceptible alleles was investigated from 88 trio-families with CAD affected offspring. Biochemical analysis of lipids and hs-CRP was carried out spectrophotometrically, while serum TNF-alpha concentrations were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Genotyping of the TNF-alpha SNPs were determined by PCR-RFLP method. Elevated serum TNF-alpha and hs-CRP were observed from CAD vs. controls ( P < 0.0001; for both). The evaluation of TNF-alpha-308G>A polymorphism in case–control study revealed that the said SNP was significantly associated with the increased risk of CAD. The findings demonstrated a significant link between the TNF-alpha variant allele A at -308 and CAD ( P = 0.0035), whereas the -238 SNP was not associated with the disease. Haplotype A–G of the TNF-alpha gene at -308G>A and -238G>A showed higher frequency in the patient group compared with controls ( P < 0.05). Moreover, data showed preferential transmission of the disease susceptible allele A at TNF-alpha-308 from parent to affected offspring in a trio-family study ( P < 0.0001). The current research leads to conclusion that the TNF-alpha-308G>A polymorphism is associated with CAD in the study population. Furthermore, for the first time, we showed that the TNF-alpha-308A allele was significantly associated with the familial CAD in our high risk population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the potential role of IL-1A gene variations in pathogenesis of coronary artery disease (CAD) with familial history. Materials and Methods: We investigated the IL-1A-889C>T polymorphism in 335 patients with CAD and 335 healthy individuals for case-control association analysis. In this study, we also investigated the heritability of the susceptible allele from 130 trio families with CAD-affected offspring. We performed genotyping using the polymerase chain reaction--restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Results: The IL-1A-889 C/T polymorphism was significantly associated with CAD in patients compared with healthy controls. The minor allele T at -889 was more prevalent in cases vs controls. The results of a transmission disequilibrium test revealed a significant association between the IL-1A-889 polymorphism and CAD. The mutant genotype CT+TT was significantly associated with high levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) and other relative markers from patients with CAD. Conclusion: For the first time in the literature, to our knowledge, we demonstrate a significant association of the IL-1A-889 functional polymorphism with CAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With occurrences of high concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in drinking water supplies and consequential increased health risks from halogenated disinfection by-products following chlorine disinfection, there is need to develop improved cost effective methods that lead to low residuals of organics in drinking waters. In conventional treatment of drinking waters, alum and ferric based salts are generally used removing low to moderate percentages of the organics present. Where raw waters are high in DOC, the residuals may also then be at comparatively high levels. Performances of titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) and zirconium tetrachloride (ZrCl4) for drinking water treatment were studied and compared with alum. Jar test experiments were performed at various coagulant doses and pH levels to determine the optimum conditions based on removal efficiencies of organic content (DOC), zeta potential for assessing the destabilization mechanism and the kinetics of coagulation. The Ti(IV) and Zr(IV)-based coagulants showed greater capacity for DOC removal at near their isoelectric points, with ZrCl4 providing the highest DOC removal. Negative zeta potentials of Ti flocs at pH 4.5, indicated that dominant destabilization of organics occurred by adsorption-enmeshment mechanisms, whereas, charge neutralization was the dominant mechanism at pH between 3 and 3.5. Fluorescence spectroscopy and HPSEC showed that ZrCl4 was more efficient for the removal of low to medium MW range organic compounds (<2000 Da) than TiCl4 or alum. TiCl4 produced relatively larger flocs with faster initial growth and with more heterogeneous sizes, than alum and ZrCl4. The results indicate that these Ti and Zr salts could be used as alternative coagulants in water treatment processes with some capacities exceeding that of alum, providing there are no health risks from their application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgical intervention has been shown to have good post-operative outcomes in patients with chronic pancreatitis with pain refractory to oral analgesics. We present our initial experience with robotic lateral pancreaticojejunostomy (LPJ) and modified Frey's procedure (MFP). Methodology: Patients with chronic calcific pancreatitis were evaluated with routine biochemical and radiological investigations. The indication of surgery was intractable pain which was recorded by an Intensity Frequency, Consequence (IFC) pain score. The patient was placed in a reverse Trendelenburg position with four 8-mm robotic ports and one 12-mm assistant port. Robotic ultrasound was utilized to identify the pancreatic duct. After retrieving all the calculi, which was confirmed by pancreatoscopy with the help of a video choledochoscope and performing the head coring in particular cases, the Roux-en-Y LPJ was performed. Results: Among five patients (4 males, one female), robotic LPJ was performed in 2 and MFP in 3 patients. The cohort's median age was 32 (interquartile range (IQR), 28, 40) years, and the median (IQR) pancreatic duct size was 9 (9, 13) mm. The median (IQR) duration of the procedure was 385 (380, 405) minutes, with a median (IQR) blood loss of 100 (50–100) ml, and the patients were discharged on median post-operative day 5. The patients continue to do well at a median follow-up of 3–30 months without the requirement of oral analgesics. Conclusion: Robotic LPJ and MFP are feasible in experienced hands with good post-operative outcomes and enhanced quality of life. Intra-operative pancreatoscopy with the help of a choledochoscope can be utilized to ascertain the complete clearance of pancreatic duct stones and the consequent pain relief. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hepatitis B is an inflammatory liver illness caused by the hepatitis B virus. The exact magnitude and extent of the hepatitis B virus in Pakistan is still unknown, but at least 10 million people are estimated to be infected with chronic hepatitis B virus. Objectives The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in the war-affected area since 2009. Study design Observational study. Results A total of 4922 healthy subjects were tested for the detection of HBsAg during 2009–2013, and 14.95% subjects were found to be reactive for HBsAg. The highest seroprevalence (26.0%) of HBsAg was found in those individuals who were less than 35 years of age. Male subjects were more affected (16.6%) than females. The seroprevalence of HBsAg was significantly associated with <35 years of age and male gender ( P < 0.005 for both). Moreover, an increasing trend over 5 years was observed, as 8.6% subjects were positive for HBsAg in 2009 and subsequently 10.4% in 2010, 14.6% in 2011, 18.9% in 2012, and 21.7% were reactive for HBsAg in 2013. Conclusion This study concluded that HBsAg was more prevalent in the war-affected region. The prevalence rate was increasing with time as the highest rate was found in 2013. Present observations will help to provide the background for awareness and bring the increasing levels of hepatitis B to the attention of health professionals and government authorities in order to increase the capacity of the health systems in such troubled areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Adsorption and kinetics mechanisms of DOM using alum, HPAC and PACl were compared. [•] The character of DOM did not affect the adsorption mechanism at various pH levels. [•] The BET isotherm was the best fit model compared with Freundlich and Langmuir models. [•] Modeling indicates that the DOM sorption mechanism is by multilayer formation. [•] HPAC produced the largest floc sizes with potential best floc settleability. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An inequality of Ostrowski's type for preinvex functions is introduced. Applications to some special means are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Integration with weight functions is used in countless mathematical problems such as: approximation theory and spectral analysis, statistical analysis and the theory of distributions. The aim of this paper is to establish a new inequality using weight function which generalizes the inequalities of Barnett et al. in 2001 and Rafiq et al. in 2006. We also discuss some other interesting inequalities in special cases. Perturbed midpoint and trapezoid inequalities are also obtained. Some applications in numerical integration are also given. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Excessive use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture contributes substantially to greenhouse gas emissions and underground water pollution. Therefore, there is an urgent need to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers without compromising agricultural productivity. Biochar and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPR) could be an environment-friendly and cheaper solution in this regard. We evaluated the effect of a sugarcane-bagasse derived biochar on Spinacia oleracea under 75% or 50% of the recommended fertilizers, in presence or absence of a PGPR i.e., Bacillus cereus. Spinach was grown on a sandy clay loam soil in pots for 60 days. Biochar was mixed at 1 or 2% (w: w basis) with soil in all possible combinations of 75% or 50% of the recommended fertilizers. Plants receiving 100% of recommended fertilizers served as control. Biochar significantly increased fresh leaf biomass, with the maximum increase of 152% found where 2% biochar + 75% fertilizer were added. Moreover, coapplication of biochar with PGPR further increased the leaf biomass, with the maximum increase of 208% found when 2% biochar and PGPR were co-applied under 50% fertilizer regime. Biochar significantly increased the soil nitrate content, with the maximum increase of 529% found in 2% biochar addition under 50% fertilizer application. Co-application of PGPR and biochar further increased soil nitrate content with the maximum increase of 750% found in 1% biochar application under 75% fertilizer regime. Phosphorus availability was only increased by 1% biochar application with maximum increase of 250% under 75% fertilizer regime. Co-application of PGPR with 1% biochar increased the microbial biomass by 91% and 75% under 75% and 50% fertilizer application respectively. Principal component analysis showed that the soil nutrients i.e., nitrate, and available phosphorus and microbial biomass, which were overwhelmingly improved under co-application of biochar and PGPR, were closely related to spinach leaf and root biomass. We concluded that the co-application of biochar and the PGPR acted synergistically in increasing the nutrient availability for plants thereby leading to higher productivity. Therefore, we recommend that this technique can be a viable solution for reducing the input costs on fertilizer in addition to boosting plant productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, our main tool is the use of mapping &bgr;:SO(X) ->P(X) from the semi-open set into power set P(X) of the underlying set X, having the property of mono- tonicity and A &subE;&bgr;(A) for each semi-open sets A, where &bgr;(A) denotes the value of A under &bgr;. Moreover, the operation &bgr; generalize the notions and characterizations defined and discussed using the operation &agr; defined and discussed by Kasahara[6]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an improvement and reverse of a strengthened Hardy-Knopp type inequality are obtained via log-convexity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: For dealing with uncertainty researchers introduced the concept of soft sets. Shabir and Naz (2011) , defined several basic notions on soft topology and studied many properties. In this paper, we continue investigating the properties of soft open (closed), soft nbd and soft closure. We also define and discuss the properties of soft interior, soft exterior and soft boundary which are fundamental for further research on soft topology and will strengthen the foundations of the theory of soft topological spaces. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An Ostrowski type inequality for a double integral is derived via a -integral on time scales; this generalizes an Ostrowski type inequality and some related results from Liu et al. (2010) . Some new applications are also given. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: The resistin gene (RETN) −420C>G and +299G>A polymorphism was investigated in a case-control study from forty complex Pakistani families with coronary artery disease (CAD) history. Heritability of the susceptible/variant alleles was investigated from parent–offspring trios in these families. Method: Resistin levels were determined from 239 individuals by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Genotyping was performed using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results: Elevated resistin levels were observed from CAD cases vs. controls (p <0.0001). The RETN −420C>G and +299G>A polymorphism was more prevalent in cases vs. controls (p <0.0001). The transmission disequilibrium test revealed a significant association of the −420 and +299 polymorphism with CAD (χ 2 =34.4, p <0.0001 and χ 2 =31.6, p <0.0001, respectively). Conclusion: Elevated resistin, and the RETN −420C>G and +299G>A polymorphism may contribute to familial CAD. The −420 and +299 variant alleles are transmitted more frequently from parent to affected offspring. This is the first report on the association of the RETN +299G>A polymorphism with CAD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]