Search

Abstract 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 Synovial sarcoma (SS) is driven by a unique t(18;X) chromosomal translocation resulting in expression of the SS18-SSX fusion oncoprotein, a transcriptional regulator with both activating and repressing functions. However, the manner in which SS18-SSX contributes to the development of SS is not entirely known. Here, we show that SS18-SSX drives the expression of Preferentially Expressed Antigen in Melanoma (PRAME), which is highly expressed in SS but whose function remains poorly understood. The fusion protein directly binds and activates the PRAME promoter and we found that expression of SS18-SSX and PRAME are positively correlated. We provide evidence that PRAME modulates retinoic acid (RA) signaling, forming a ternary complex with the RA receptor α (RARα) and the Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2). Knockdown of PRAME suppressed the response to all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) supporting PRAME’s role in modulating RA-signaling. Notably, we demonstrate that combined pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 and treatment with ATRA reconstituted RA signaling followed by reduced proliferation and induction of cellular senescence. In conclusion, our data provides new insights on the role of the SS18-SSX fusion protein in regulation of PRAME expression and RA signaling, highlighting the therapeutic potential of disrupting the RARα-PRAME-EZH2 complex in SS. Schematic presentation of the proposed model. A The RARα-PRAME-EZH2 ternary complex in SS. The fusion SS18-SSX oncoprotein binds to the PRAME promoter and activates its expression. PRAME in turn interacts with RARα-RXR heterodimers as well as with EZH2, and the complex binds to retinoic acid response elements (RAREs) in the DNA. This results in transcriptional repression of retinoic acid (RA) responsive genes and thus inhibition of RA-signaling, allowing tumor cell proliferation. B Therapeutic strategy. Treatment with an EZH2 inhibitor, such as GSK343, or activation of RAR receptors via all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), disrupts the RARα-PRAME-EZH2 ternary complex and restores RA-signaling. Exposure to GSK343 or ATRA results in inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of cellular senescence, where GSK343 shows a dominant effect. The Figure was created with Biorender.com.

Abstract Background Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), a deciduous species plant, is widely distributed around the globe, and native to the cold-temperate regions of Europe and Asia. This medicinal herb contains several bioactive constituents including chlorogenic acid. The conventional methods used for the extraction of phenolic antioxidants from natural herbs often result in low yields, high toxicity, and pose environmental hazards limiting their effectiveness and scalability. Therefore, green extraction techniques using deep eutectic solvents, composed of natural, non-toxic, and biodegradable components were applied for extraction of chlorogenic acid from sea buckthorn weed. Fourteen deep eutectic solvent mixtures were prepared and evaluated for extraction yield of chlorogenic acid. Parameters such as hydrogen bond donor-to-hydrogen bond acceptor ratio, liquid-to-solid ratio, shaking speed, and shaking time were optimized for the best mixture. Results The combination of lactic acid and maltose (1:1) was found to give best extraction yield using response surface methodology. The deep eutectic solvent system under optimum conditions produced 12.2 g/100 g of crude extract sea buckthorn containing 174.7 mg gallic acid equivalents (mg GA)/g) of extract. Moreover, the optimized extract exhibited appreciable radical scavenging capacity (91%), trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (11.2% of extract), and inhibition of peroxide in linoleic acid (80.6%). High-performance liquid chromatography-based characterization revealed the extracts contained chlorogenic acid (20.1 mg/g of extract) as the major constituent. Conclusions In summary, the adoption of DES for the extraction of bioactive phenolic constituents from sea buckthorn offers multiple benefits, including economic efficiency, enhanced extraction performance, and environmental sustainability. The findings of this study not only advance the understanding of DES in phytochemical extraction but also pave the way for broader application of green solvents in the natural products industry. Future research should focus on further optimizing DES formulations and scaling up the extraction process to fully realize the potential of this innovative extraction method in commercial applications.

We systematically investigated the electronic, magnetic, and optical properties of the FeMnSb half-Heusler alloy, its (001) surface, and its interfaces with GaAs and GaP semiconductors by using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory. The bulk FeMnSb reveals its half-metallic ferrimagnetism with 100% spin-polarization. Extending this study to the (001) surface, we uncover distinct electronic and magnetic behaviors for Fe- and MnSb-terminated surfaces, the MnSb-terminated surface preserving the half-metallicity observed in the bulk material. Our evaluation of the interfaces exhibits positive work of separation, indicating that these interfaces are energetically favorable. The density of states analysis reveals that all interfaces exhibit a metallic nature. High spin-polarization values, particularly 97.316% for the Fe-Ga interface, suggest a substantial degree of spin-polarized current. Notably, the absorption coefficient peaks shift from the ultraviolet (UV) region in the bulk alloy to the visible region at the (001) surfaces. However, at the FeMnSb/GaAs and FeMnSb/GaP interfaces, the highest absorption peaks revert to the UV region, highlighting strong interfacial coupling effects. These results suggest the tunability of FeMnSb optical properties via surface termination and interface engineering, making it a promising candidate for spintronic and optoelectronic applications.

The concept of “coherence in the Qur’an” has a pivotal role in his thought. This concept was initially expounded by Mawlana Hamid al-Din Farahi. Later, Mawlana Amin Ahsan Islahi not only developed it into a comprehensive theory but also applied it in his 9 volume exegesis of the Qur’an titled Tadabbur-i Qur’an. Ghamidi further developed it and made his own contribution to it, particularly in the last ‘group’ (Surat al-Mulk to Surat al-Nas). He deems this concept as the “master-key” to the exegetical issues of the Qur’an. This paper after giving a description of the salient features of the concept analyzes and examines it so as to ascertain if it is strong enough to override the traditions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) and of his Companions (Allah be pleased with them).

The geometry, electronic structure, and adsorption properties of halogen molecule X2(X = F, Cl) on arsenene were investigated using first-principles calculations. The adsorption of molecules was considered at various sites and in various orientations on the pristine arsenene (p-As) surface. Both molecules show chemisorption and the crystal orbital Hamiltonian population (COHP) analysis reveals the formation of strong X-As bonds. In particular, the adsorbed molecules spontaneously dissociate into atomic halogen atoms, with a diffusion barrier of 1.91 (1.72) eV for F2(Cl2). The adsorbed X2 molecules induced distortions in the local geometry due to strong interaction with arsenene. Importantly, the formation of X-As bonding remarkably changed the electronic properties, evidenced by the decrease of the actual band gap due to the emergence of defect states within the band gap. For instance, the F2 adsorbed arsenene system (F2-As) exhibited an average band gap of 1.17 eV, and Cl2 adsorbed arsenene (Cl2-As) showed an average band gap of 0.83 eV. In particular, indirect to direct band gap transition was observed for some adsorption configurations. The reduction in band gap resulted in the enhancement of electrical conductivity. These findings suggest that the electronic properties of arsenene can be tuned by halogen decoration.

Due to organizations’ unsatisfactory and ineffective environmental performance, scholars focused on employee behavioral improvements rather than relying primarily on technological advancements. This study intended the role of strategic HR practices toward talent retention through job satisfaction and employee work engagement in Pakistan’s education sectors. Additionally, this study examined the moderating impact of psychological empowerment on job satisfaction and work engagement toward talent retention and how they affect universities’ environmental performance. Past empirical research projects and related theories have helped in the creation of the conceptual model. The relevant associations were investigated in this study using a sample of 332 employees from the education sector of Pakistan. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method is used to evaluate these elements in the current research investigation. The analysis showed that strategic HR practices positively influence talent retention in the education sector. Work engagement and job satisfaction positively mediate the relationship between strategic HR practices and talent retention. Furthermore, psychological empowerment positively moderates the relationship between job satisfaction and work engagement toward talent retention. Executives and policy-makers of education sectors get benefit from strategic HR practices in an environmentally friendly setting by learning how to foster a culture to improve sustainability and talent retention that sets organizational environmental values.

MYC is a transcription factor crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis, and its dysregulation is associated with highly aggressive cancers. Despite being considered “undruggable” due to its unstable protein structure, MYC gains stability through its interaction with its partner protein, MAX. The MYC-MAX heterodimer orchestrates the expression of numerous genes that contribute to an oncogenic phenotype. Previous efforts to develop small molecules, disrupting the MYC-MAX interaction, have shown promise in vitro but none have gained clinical approval. Our current computer-aided study utilizes an approach to explore drug repurposing as a strategy for inhibiting the c-MYC-MAX interaction. We have focused on compounds from DrugBank library, including Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs or those under investigation for other medical conditions. First, we identified a potential druggable site on flat interface of the c-MYC protein, which served as the target for virtual screening. Using both activity-based and structure-based screening, we comprehensively assessed the entire DrugBank library. Structure-based virtual screening was performed on AutoDock Vina and Glide docking tools, while activity-based screening was performed on two independent quantitative structure-activity relationship models. We focused on the top 2% of hit molecules from all screening methods. Ultimately, we selected consensus molecules from these screenings—those that exhibited both a stable interaction with c-MYC and superior inhibitory activity against c-MYC-MAX interaction. Among the evaluated molecules, we identified a protein kinase inhibitor (tyrosine kinase inhibitor [TKI]) known as nilotinib as a promising candidate targeting c-MYC-MAX dimer. Molecular dynamic simulations demonstrated a stable interaction between MYC and nilotinib. The interaction with nilotinib led to the stabilization of a region of the MYC protein that is distorted in apo-MYC and is important for MAX binding. Further analysis of differentially expressed gene revealed that nilotinib, uniquely among the tested TKIs, induced a gene expression program in which half of the genes were known to be responsive to c-MYC. Our findings provide the foundation for subsequent in vitro and in vivo investigations aimed at evaluating the efficacy of nilotinib in managing MYC oncogenic activity.

Abstract The current distribution of Asiatic black bear (Ursus thibetanus) is available on the IUCN Red List of Threatened species website; however, nothing is known about the historical extent and occurrence of this species. Therefore, we aimed to understand the historical distribution of the Asiatic black bear, and map and estimate its total size, to compare it with that of species current distribution. In addition, we analyzed a network of protected areas in the past and current ranges of the species. We employed geographic information system (GIS) software to reconstruct and measure the historical range of the Asiatic black bear, comparing past and current ranges to analyze its expected range contraction. The main focus of the study was to enhance our understanding of the species' historical distribution, contributing to better conservation strategies for the present and future perspectives. The utilization of GIS tools facilitates a comprehensive exploration of the factors influencing the species' decline, ultimately aiding in more effective management and conservation efforts. We used published records of black bear’s occurrence in anywhere in history to reconstruct its historical distribution range. Results revealed that the Asiatic black bear was more widely distributed in historical times and its range spanned across approximately 15.86 million km2 while its current range is limited to approximately 7.85 million km2, showing a range contraction of approximately 49.5% (8.02 million km2 reduced). The total protected areas in the historical range of the species were found to be N = 9933, with total size of 0.946 million km2, against N = 6580 (0.667 million km2) that are present in the current range. Approximately 27.5% of the protected areas have lost the Asiatic black bear since historical times.

Abstract MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that play pivotal roles in regulating gene expression and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous cancers. miRNA-3652, though relatively less explored, has recently emerged as a potential key player in ovarian cancer's molecular landscape. This review aims to delineate the functional significance and tumor progression role of miRNA-3652 in ovarian cancer, shedding light on its potential as both a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target. A comprehensive literature search was carried out using established databases, the focus was on articles that reported the role of miRNA-3652 in ovarian cancer, encompassing mechanistic insights, functional studies, and its association with clinical outcomes. This updated review highlighted that miRNA-3652 is intricately involved in ovarian cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, its dysregulation was linked to altered expression of critical genes involved in tumor growth and metastasis; furthermore, miRNA-3652 expression levels were found to correlate with clinical stages, prognosis, and response to therapy in ovarian cancer patients. miRNA-3652 holds significant promise as a vital molecular player in ovarian cancer's pathophysiology. Its functional role and impact on tumor progression make it a potential candidate for diagnostic and therapeutic applications in ovarian cancer. Given the pivotal role of miRNA-3652 in ovarian cancer, future studies should emphasize in-depth mechanistic explorations, utilizing advanced genomic and proteomic tools. Collaboration between basic scientists and clinicians will be vital to translating these findings into innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, ultimately benefiting ovarian cancer patients. Video Abstract

Abstract Polymer flooding is a proven chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (cEOR) method that boosts oil production beyond waterflooding. Thorough theoretical and practical knowledge has been obtained for this technique through numerous experimental, simulation, and field works. According to the conventional belief, this technique improves macroscopic sweep efficiency due to high polymer viscosity by producing moveable oil that remains unswept after secondary recovery. However, recent studies show that in addition to viscosity, polymer viscoelasticity can be effectively utilized to increase oil recovery by mobilizing residual oil and improving microscopic displacement efficiency in addition to macroscopic sweep efficiency. The polymer flooding is frequently implemented in sandstones with limited application in carbonates. This limitation is associated with extreme reservoir conditions, such as high concentrations of monovalent and divalent ions in the formation brine and ultimate reservoir temperatures. Other complications include the high heterogeneity of tight carbonates and their mixed-to-oil wettability. To overcome the challenges related to severe reservoir conditions, novel polymers have been introduced. These new polymers have unique monomers protecting them from chemical and thermal degradations. Monomers, such as NVP (N-vinylpyrrolidone) and ATBS (2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid), enhance the chemical resistance of polymers against hydrolysis, mitigating the risk of viscosity reduction or precipitation in challenging reservoir conditions. However, the viscoelasticity of these novel polymers and their corresponding impact on microscopic displacement efficiency are not well established and require further investigation in this area. In this study, we comprehensively review recent works on viscoelastic polymer flow under various reservoir conditions, including carbonates and sandstones. In addition, the paper defines various mechanisms underlying incremental oil recovery by viscoelastic polymers and extensively describes the means of controlling and improving their viscoelasticity. Furthermore, the polymer screening studies for harsh reservoir conditions are also included. Finally, the impact of viscoelastic synthetic polymers on oil mobilization, the difficulties faced during this cEOR process, and the list of field applications in carbonates and sandstones can also be found in our work. This paper may serve as a guide for commencing or performing laboratory- and field-scale projects related to viscoelastic polymer flooding.

Several biogeochemical models have been applied to understand the potential effects of management practices on soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration, crop growth, and yield. In this study, the denitrification and decomposition (DNDC) model was used to simulate soil SOC dynamics and harvested C-biomass in rice–wheat rotation under organic/inorganic fertilization with conventional tillage (CT) and reduced tillage (RT). Before calibration, DNDC underpredicted harvestable grain C-biomass of rice where percent difference (PD) varied from 29.22% to 42.14%, and over-simulated grain C-biomass of wheat where PD was −55.01% with 50% nitrogen–phosphorus–potassium (NPK) and 50% animal manure applied under the CT treatment. However, after calibration by adjusting default values of soil and crop parameters, DNDC simulated harvestable grain C-biomass of both crops very close to observed values (e.g., average PD ranged from −2.81% to −6.17%). DNDC also predicted the effects of nutrient management practices on grain C-biomass of rice/wheat under CT/RT using d-index (0.76 to 0.96) and the calculated root mean squared error (RMSE of 165.36 to 494.18 kg C ha−1). DNDC simulated SOC trends for rice–wheat using measured values of several statistical indices. Regression analysis between modeled and observed SOC dynamics was significant with R2 ranging from 0.35 to 0.46 (p < 0.01), and intercept ranging from 0.30 to 1.34 (p < 0.65). DNDC demonstrated that combined inorganic and organic fertilization may result in higher C-biomass and more SOC sequestration in rice–wheat systems.

IntroductionThe present research describes the utilization of natural deep eutectic solvent in combination with ultrasound for the extraction of milk thistle polyphenols. The extracts obtained under different conditions were evaluated for their in vitro antioxidant activities and hepatoprotective activities in Albino mice (in vivo).MethodsThe extraction parameters involving liquid-to-solid ratio (S/L), ethanol-to-natural deep eutectic solvent ratio (EtOH/DES), extraction time (t), and ultrasound treatment time were investigated and optimized to enhance the recovery of bioactives, their phenolic content, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and radical scavenging capacity (RSC).Results and discussionsThe extraction of milk thistle polyphenols using glucose/citric acid (1:1)-based natural deep eutectic liquid coupled with ultrasound for 1.0 min under an S/L of 6.2, EtOH/DES 9, and extraction time of 120.8 min offered 35.89 ± 2.29 g/100 g of crude extracts, which were three-fold higher than that by conventional solvent extraction (CSE). Each gram of milk thistle extracts thus obtained comprised 377.93 ± 6.17 mg GAE of TPC and exhibited 298.70 ± 3.06 μmol TEAC and 93.16 ± 0.58 percent inhibition of DPPH free radicals. In addition, the administration of milk thistle extracts obtained as given above at 25 mg/Kg body weight in Albino mice significantly (p ≤ 0.05) improved the liver function parameters at the end of treatment (7 days).ConclusionOverall, it was observed that NaDES in combination with medium-level ultrasound energy (700 watt) might work as a sustainable choice to enhance the recovery of bioactive phenolics from milk thistle powder without compromising their antioxidant and hepatoprotective potential.

ABSTRACT: In the current study, the proteolytic enzyme (serratiopeptidase) was used to enhance the efficacy of Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) probiotic as a growth promotor in broiler chicken. The effects of serratiopeptidase on the efficacy of different levels of B. subtilis as a growth promotor in broiler chicks were evaluated regarding growth performance traits, villus histomorphometric characterization, and intestinal microbiota count. Day-old broiler chicks (n = 120) were allocated into 4 groups having 3 replicates/group. In the control group (C), the basal diet was kept without supplementation. In treatment groups (P100, P150, and P200), the basal diet was supplemented with 100, 150, and 200 mg probiotics, respectively besides 30 mg proteolytic enzyme in the 3 treated groups for 4 wk. The performance parameters were significantly affected by the supplementation of serratiopeptidase to the B. subtilis treatment groups. Feed intake (FI), body weight gain (WG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and dressing percent were significantly improved in the treatment groups as compared to the control group. Significantly, the lowest feed intake was recorded for the P200 group. The highest body weight gain and dressing percentage were recorded for the P200 group. An improved FCR was recorded in the P200 group (1.7) as compared to the control group. The different levels of B. subtilis supplemented with serratiopeptidase revealed significant improvements (P

Carreau fluid flow over a linearly curved stretching surface has significant applications in manufacturing industries. This study focuses on the impact of various parameters on the velocity, temperature, pressure skin friction, and heat transfer coefficient of a 2D Carreau flow. Both shear thinning (pseudoplastic) and shear thickening (dilatant) behaviors are considered. The parameters include suction, non-dimensional radius of curvature, Weissenberg number, magnetic parameter, power-law index, Eckert number (viscous dissipation parameter), and Prandtl number. The effects of viscous dissipation, magnetic field, convective boundary conditions, and suction are also taken into account. The study reveals that the flow velocity decreases with increasing magnetic parameter, curvature factor, and suction, but increases with the Weissenberg number and power law index. The heat transfer rate is reduced by the curvature factor, Weissenberg number, suction, power-law index, and Prandtl number, while the magnetic parameter has the opposite effect. The boundary value problem is simplified through appropriate similarity transformation and solved numerically using the shooting method and Matlab’s built-in function bvp4c. The results obtained from these two methods show good agreement. The findings also align well with existing literature in some limiting cases, confirming the validity of the study.

Objectives: To evaluate patient satisfaction and its associated factors in teaching hospitals. Method: The cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted from September to December 2022 at three public-sector medical teaching hospitals in Peshawar, Pakistan, and comprised adult patients of either admitted to various hospital wards for at least 2 days. Data was collected using a predesigned a closed-ended questionnaire assessing patient satisfaction in different domains like, facilitation at the admission, professional knowledge and skills of the attending doctors, quality of diagnostic and nursing services, and basic amenities. Data was analysed using SPSS version origin Pro 2022a. Results: There were 473 patients with a male-female ratio of 3:1, with mean age 43.3+14.7 years (range: 11-85 years), and mean hospital stay 5.96+3.37 days (range: 2-18 days). Of the 2,365 response statements for facilitation at the admission counter, 2,051(87%) were positive; of the 2,365 statements for attending doctors, 2,012(85%) were positive; of the 2,838 statements for nursing care, 2,122(75%) were positive; of 946 statements for diagnostic services, 627(66%) were positive; and of the 3,311 statements for basic amenities at the hospital, 1,246(38%) were positive. Overall, of the 11,825 response statements, 8058(68%) were positive. The patient satisfaction was significantly co-related with education and hospital stay (p

As for spintronic applications, all information is encoded in the spin degree of freedom, so the key issues are the high spin-polarization, large half-metallic (HM) bandgap, large magnetic moment and higher Curie temperature than room temperature. In this paper, we studied halogen based CsYZ2 (Y = V or Cr; Z = F, Cl, Br or I) full-Heusler alloys. Our study reveals that CsVF2, CsVCl2, CsVI2 and CsCrI2 alloys are all HM ferromagnets while remaining alloys exhibits magnetic semiconductor behavior. The electronic structures indicate that these alloys open very large bandgaps in the spin-down channel. Following the Slater-Pauling rule Mt=Zt-16, these alloys exhibit very large total magnetic moments Mt of 4.00 μBf.u. when Y = V and 5.00 μBf.u. when Y = Cr. The high Curie temperatures indicate these alloys are appropriate for spintronic applications at room temperature. Furthermore, the absorption coefficient α(ω) of the CsVF2 alloy is better from other alloys in the visible region. The maximum ZT = 0.7 is obtained for CsCrBr2 and is an ideal candidate for thermoelectric (TE) applications.

Sleep spindles are one of the prominent EEG oscillatory rhythms of non-rapid eye movement sleep. In the memory consolidation, these oscillations have an important role in the processes of long-term potentiation and synaptic plasticity. Moreover, the activity (spindle density and/or sigma power) of spindles has a linear association with learning performance in different paradigms. According to the experimental observations, the sleep spindle activity can be improved by closed loop acoustic stimulations (CLAS) which eventually improve memory performance. To examine the effects of CLAS on spindles, we propose a biophysical thalamocortical model for slow oscillations (SOs) and sleep spindles. In addition, closed loop stimulation protocols are applied on a thalamic network. Our model results show that the power of spindles is increased when stimulation cues are applied at the commencing of an SO Down-to-Up-state transition, but that activity gradually decreases when cues are applied with an increased time delay from this SO phase. Conversely, stimulation is not effective when cues are applied during the transition of an Up-to-Down-state. Furthermore, our model suggests that a strong inhibitory input from the reticular (RE) layer to the thalamocortical (TC) layer in the thalamic network shifts leads to an emergence of spindle activity at the Up-to-Down-state transition (rather than at Down-to-Up-state transition), and the spindle frequency is also reduced (8-11 Hz) by thalamic inhibition.

Introduction: The present research aimed to fractionate Xanthium strumarium L. (XSL) foliage phenolics into a set of solvents and evaluate their antioxidant potential and in-vivo anti-diabetic activity against Alloxan monohydrate-induced diabetic mice.Methodology: For this purpose, XSL foliage was fractionated into petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and water via orbital type shaking and tested for the presence of phenolics, and their antioxidant and antidiabetic potential.Results and discussion: The results revealed that the ethyl acetate fraction of XSL foliage contained the highest amount of total phenolics 95.25 mg GAE/g of extract, followed by ethanol (65.14 mg GAE/g), petroleum ether (25.12 mg GAE/g), water (12.20 mg GAE/g), and XSL powder (69.13 mg GAE/g). At the end of treatment time (day 18 of oral administration of 400 mg/kg body weight of mice), the ethyl acetate fraction significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lowered blood glucose level (353 ± 10.6 to 220 ± 25.5 mg/dL) which might due to the elevated level of phenolic compounds in this fraction.Conclusion: Overall, it can be speculated that ethyl acetate and ethanol may work efficiently for the enrichment of XSL phenolic without compromising their antidiabetic potential.

Abstract Cesium tin chloride (CsSnCl3) is a potential and competitive absorber material for lead-free perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The full potential of CsSnCl3 not yet been realized owing to the possible challenges of defect-free device fabrication, non-optimized alignment of the electron transport layer (ETL), hole transport layer (HTL), and the favorable device configuration. In this work, we proposed several CsSnCl3-based solar cell (SC) configurations using one dimensional solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS-1D) with different competent ETLs like indium–gallium–zinc–oxide (IGZO), tin-dioxide (SnO2), tungsten disulfide (WS2), ceric dioxide (CeO2), titanium dioxide (TiO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), C60, PCBM, and HTLs of cuprous oxide (Cu2O), cupric oxide (CuO), nickel oxide (NiO), vanadium oxide (V2O5), copper iodide (CuI), CuSCN, CuSbS2, Spiro MeOTAD, CBTS, CFTS, P3HT, PEDOT:PSS. Simulation results revealed that ZnO, TiO2, IGZO, WS2, PCBM, and C60 ETLs-based halide perovskites with ITO/ETLs/CsSnCl3/CBTS/Au heterostructure exhibited outstanding photoconversion efficiency retaining nearest photovoltaic parameters values among 96 different configurations. Further, for the six best-performing configurations, the effect of the CsSnCl3 absorber and ETL thickness, series and shunt resistance, working temperature, impact of capacitance, Mott–Schottky, generation and recombination rate, current–voltage properties, and quantum efficiency on performance were assessed. We found that ETLs like TiO2, ZnO, and IGZO, with CBTS HTL can act as outstanding materials for the fabrication of CsSnCl3-based high efficiency (η ≥ 22%) heterojunction SCs with ITO/ETL/CsSnCl3/CBTS/Au structure. The simulation results obtained by the SCAPS-1D for the best six CsSnCl3-perovskites SC configurations were compared by the wxAMPS (widget provided analysis of microelectronic and photonic structures) tool for further validation. Furthermore, the structural, optical and electronic properties along with electron charge density, and Fermi surface of the CsSnCl3 perovskite absorber layer were computed and analyzed using first-principle calculations based on density functional theory. Thus, this in-depth simulation paves a constructive research avenue to fabricate cost-effective, high-efficiency, and lead-free CsSnCl3 perovskite-based high-performance SCs for a lead-free green and pollution-free environment.

Abstract Background Neuroblastoma (NB), a childhood tumor derived from the sympathetic nervous system, presents with heterogeneous clinical behavior. While some tumors regress spontaneously without medical intervention, others are resistant to therapy, associated with an aggressive phenotype. MYCN-amplification, frequently occurring in high-risk NB, is correlated with an undifferentiated phenotype and poor prognosis. Differentiation induction has been proposed as a therapeutic approach for high-risk NB. We have previously shown that MYCN maintains an undifferentiated state via regulation of the miR-17 ~ 92 microRNA cluster, repressing the nuclear hormone receptors (NHRs) estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Methods Cell viability was determined by WST-1. Expression of differentiation markers was analyzed by Western blot, RT-qPCR, and immunofluorescence analysis. Metabolic phenotypes were studied using Agilent Extracellular Flux Analyzer, and accumulation of lipid droplets by Nile Red staining. Expression of angiogenesis, proliferation, and neuronal differentiation markers, and tumor sections were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Gene expression from NB patient as well as adrenal gland cohorts were analyzed using GraphPad Prism software (v.8) and GSEA (v4.0.3), while pseudo-time progression on post-natal adrenal gland cells from single-nuclei transcriptome data was computed using scVelo. Results Here, we show that simultaneous activation of GR and ERα potentiated induction of neuronal differentiation, reduced NB cell viability in vitro, and decreased tumor burden in vivo. This was accompanied by a metabolic reprogramming manifested by changes in the glycolytic and mitochondrial functions and in lipid droplet accumulation. Activation of the retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARα) with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) further enhanced the differentiated phenotype as well as the metabolic switch. Single-cell nuclei transcriptome analysis of human adrenal glands indicated a sequential expression of ERα, GR, and RARα during development from progenitor to differentiated chromaffin cells. Further, in silico analysis revealed that patients with higher combined expression of GR, ERα, and RARα mRNA levels had elevated expression of neuronal differentiation markers and a favorable outcome. Conclusion Together, our findings suggest that combination therapy involving activation of several NHRs could be a promising pharmacological approach for differentiation treatment of NB patients.

The Prophet, the epitome of mercy in the world ﷺ has been sent to help and guide mankind for all times to come, the Holy Quran was revealed upon him with the knowledge to succeed in this world and hereafter. His teaching form the greatest constitution that was ever dawned upon the hearts of mankind by the greatest Benefactor of mankind, Hazrat Muhammad ﷺin the year 632 C.E. Basis of Islmic state are Quran and Sunnah and the Prophet himself has established an exemplary model Islamic state in Medina. In this article the basis of Islamic state is being discussed.

Nature of carbon nanotubes (CNT’s) mechanical characteristics can only be disclosed through advanced studies. Carbon nanotubes show diverse features in radial and axial directions when studied geometrically. Since CNT’s have two dimensional symmetrical behavior and they are in cylindrical shape, they show strong electrical and thermal conductivity in base fluid. In order to develop energy equation, such characteristics must be kept in view, we nominate the heat flux model of Catteneo-Christov. Carbon nanotubes of singlewall and multiwall are analyzed and compared in base fluid of water. Cylindrical coordinates are used in mathematical formulation and modeling for the flow equations to be converted to partial differential equations. For solution and study of fluid equations shooting method and Keller box scheme are used. Our computations resulted in an increase in fluid temperature due to thermal relaxation time, while fluid temperature decreases with an increases in Prandtl number. Further more, porosity also has fluid velocity as its decreasing function. The results are displayed through tables and graphs.

The study aimed to evaluate the effective role of Bacillus clausii on immunity and hepato-protection in broiler chickens. Total one hundred and twenty (120) day-old broiler chicks were alienated into four groups as group-A (Control), group-B {0.01 ml/ L (4 × 106 Spore)}, group-C {0.02 ml/ L (8 × 106 Spore)} and group-D {0.03 ml/ L (12 × 106 Spore)}. Each group was consisting of 3 replicate per group (10 birds/replicate). Immunization of birds was performed according to standard vaccination schedule of broiler chicks during the trial period of 35 days. The Serum biochemical parameters analyzed were liver function tests like Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), the total proteins and alkaline phosphates (ALP). Similarly the Humoral antibody titers of Newcastle Disease (ND) Immunoglobulin-M (IgM), Immunoglobulin-G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin-A (IgA) were also determined. The results showed that Bacillus clausii supplementation @ 0.03 ml/L significantly maintained the liver biomarkers (AST, ALT and ALP) at normal level as compared to control and other treated groups. Immuno-globulins (G, M and A) level was significantly elevated with highest supplementation (0.03 ml/L). No significant (p > 0.05) changes were observed for antigen specific antibody titer against ND. In conclusion, supplementation of Bacillus clausii @ 0.03 ml/L as probiotic in drinking water significantly improved the liver function and humoralimmunity of broiler chicks.

Muslim scholars have generally assumed that the Torah was all revealed at once to Prophet Musa [Moses], peace be on him, which is why the Muslim discourse on the Torah generally lacks discussion on its codification. However, some of the Muslim scholars took the position that, like the Qur’an, the Torah was revealed gradually. The present paper examines the views of four eminent scholars – ‘Ubaydullah Sindhi, Abu ’l-A‘la Mawdudi, Amin Ahsan Islahi and Javed Ahmad Ghamidi – and tries to build a comprehensive theory about the revelation and codification of the Torah as well as about critical analysis of the content of the Pentateuch. It concludes that the principles which Muslim tradition has developed for ascertaining authenticity of traditions and for interpretation of the Qur’anic verses and Prophetic traditions as well as for reconciliation of apparently conflicting texts can be very beneficial in developing a coherent Muslim theory for Biblical criticism.

The core objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of baking/frying times and temperatures on the formation of acrylamide in bakery, snack, and fried products such as biscuits, muffins, pizza, cakes, samosa, paratha rolls, nuggets, and potato cutlets during baking/frying at different times and temperature conditions. First of all, the raw material, especially flour, was tested for its proximate composition and rheological characteristics. The quantification of acrylamide produced during the processing of different products was carried out through the HPLC method. A sensory evaluation of these food samples was also carried out to find out the acceptability differences. The raw material was found to have good rheological properties and proximate composition. The results revealed that different times and temperature regimes influenced the formation of acrylamide in those products. Among the bakery products, the highest concentrations of acrylamide were observed in biscuits (126.52 μg/kg) followed by muffins (84.24 μg/kg), cake (71.21 μg/kg), and pizza (62.42 μg/kg). The higher contents of acrylamide were found in paratha roll (165.92 μg/kg) compared to samosa (100.43 μg/kg), whereas among snacks, potato cutlets (135.71 μg/kg) showed higher concentrations than nuggets (43.04 μg/kg). It was observed that baking or frying all the investigated products at higher temperatures produced slightly more acrylamide concentrations. The prepared products in the present study were also accepted sensorially by the panel of judges. So, it was concluded that baking or frying at higher temperatures resulted in higher concentrations of acrylamide compounds in different products in the present study.

Abstract Density functional theory (DFT) method is used to study the effect of single-atom catalyst (SAC) of Mn embedded in C2N nanoribbon (C2N-NR) on the adsorption properties as an attempt to achieve selectivity. Many gases (e.g., CO, CO2, H2, H2O, H2S, N2 and O2) of interest to energy and environmental applications were tested. The results show that SAC-Mn alters chemisorption processes with all gas molecules except N2. Clear adsorption selectivity is obtained towards oxidizing CO, CO2 and O2 molecules as evidenced by the enhancements in binding energy and charge transfer and the reduction in magnetization. While the SAC-Mn contributes predominantly to Fermi-energy region with spin-down states, the strong binding to oxidizing molecules introduces there more spin-up states to compromise and reduce the magnetization. Hence, C2N-NR:Mn is proposed to be used as platform for gas sensor (if combined with magnetic sensor) to yield high selectivity toward these latter gases.

A potential method for removing toxins from contaminated wastewater, especially organic pollutants, is photo-catalysis. Here, a simple technique for producing zinc ferrite nanoparticles (ZnFe2O4 NPS) with varying quantities of sulphur doped graphitic carbon nitride nanocomposites (ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4 NCs) has been described. Then, using X-ray diffraction (XRD), TEM, EDX, XPS, photocurrent response, EIS, and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), the photo-catalytic activity of the produced nanoparticles (NPs) and nanocomposites (NCs) was examined and evaluated. The photo-catalytic activity of ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4 NCs was compared to a model pollutant dye, methylene blue, while degradation was evaluated spectrophotometrically (MB). Solar light has been used through irradiation as a source of lighting. The photocatalytic behaviour of the ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4 NCs photocatalyst was superior to that of genuine ZnFe2O4 and S-g-C3N4, which was attributed to synergic effects at the ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4 interconnection. Antimicrobial activity of ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4 against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria under visible light was performed. In addition, these ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4 NCs show a lot of promise as an antibacterial agent.

The electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a sustainable energy production route using green chemistry. Transition metal dichalcogenides' application in catalytic hydrogen production is limited due to a lack of solutions that simultaneously address intrinsic activity, increased surface area, electrical conductivity, and stability problems. Herein we address these issues simultaneously by modifying the electronic structure of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanorods using a low content of Pd (1 wt% and 2 wt%) dopant via a facile colloidal solvothermal route. The resulting MoS2 nanorods doped with (1 and 2 wt%) palladium demonstrate current density of 100 mA/cm2 at quit lower over-potentials of 137 mV and 119 mV than 273 mV for pure MoS2 nanorods, accompanied by high stability. This research proposes a strategy for designing high-performance HER electrocatalysts that work in acidic medium. In addition, the Tafel slop calculated for MoS2 is 112 mV/dec whereas for 1 and 2 wt% Pd-MoS2, the Tafel slopes are 70 mV/dec and 46 mV/dec.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of variety and plant environment on nutritional composition, phenolic contents and antioxidant activities from commercial wheat cultivars grown in Pakistan. Chemical composition, total phenolic contents and antioxidant activities were measured in twenty-seven spring wheat varieties grown for two cropping years. Preliminary assessment of antioxidant strength of the extracts was carried out by the evaluation of total phenolic contents (TPC), antioxidant activity (AA) and free radical scavenging activity (FRSA). The grain length, width and a thousand kernel weight of different wheat varieties ranged from 6.75-6.77 mm, 3.44-3.45 mm and 42.95-45.16 g respectively. Similarly, the moisture, ash, crude fat, crude fiber, crude protein, wet gluten, dry gluten, flour gliadins, flour glutenins contents and SDS-sedimentation value varied from 10.23-10.61%, 1.47-1.48%, 1.16-1.21%, 1.37-1.40%, 11.86-12.02%, 25.39-25.46%, 8.85-8.87%, 0.46-0.52%, 0.46-0.49% and 24.99-25.85 ml respectively among different wheat varieties. In the same way, the results for total phenolic contents, free radical scavenging activity (DPPH assay) and antioxidant activity via beta carotene bleaching assay varied from 12.40-11.73 mg GE/g, 18.48-18.99% and 14.23-15.97% respectively. Our research clearly indicated that wheat variety, input conditions, environmental and genotypic variations gave effects on the phenolic antioxidant properties.

Brain tumor is a severe cancer disease caused by uncontrollable and abnormal partitioning of cells. Recent progress in the field of deep learning has helped the health industry in Medical Imaging for Medical Diagnostic of many diseases. For Visual learning and Image Recognition, task CNN is the most prevalent and commonly used machine learning algorithm. Similarly, in our paper, we introduce the convolutional neural network (CNN) approach along with Data Augmentation and Image Processing to categorize brain MRI scan images into cancerous and non-cancerous. Using the transfer learning approach we compared the performance of our scratched CNN model with pre-trained VGG-16, ResNet-50, and Inception-v3 models. As the experiment is tested on a very small dataset but the experimental result shows that our model accuracy result is very effective and have very low complexity rate by achieving 100% accuracy, while VGG-16 achieved 96%, ResNet-50 achieved 89% and Inception-V3 achieved 75% accuracy. Our model requires very less computational power and has much better accuracy results as compared to other pre-trained models.

In this research work, in-situ self-assembly approach was used the first time, to cultivate bacterial cellulose on the surface of fibers, extracted from banana peels. The characterization was performed using SEM, FTIR, and single fiber tensile test in order to determine the surface morphology and mechanical properties of modified fibers. As-prepared hybrid fibers exhibited comparatively better mechanical properties, which can be attributed to the self-assembly of bacterial cellulose on banana fibers’ surface. Overall, this research work suggests a novel route for fiber extraction from banana peels and to use them for the preparation of bio nano-composites with improved mechanical properties.

A convenient and rapid High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) based protocol was optimized for the routine analysis and kinetic study of Ketoprofen (KP) in plasma and urinary execration of patients. The optimized HPLC method was found to be linear over the wide range of KP concentration (1–90 µg/mL) with substantial recovery rates (95.5–97.63%) of calibration standards at an improved detection (0.02 μg/mL LoD) and quantitation limit (0.06 μg/mL LoQ) and acceptable inter and intraday variability (RSD ≤ 7.75%). The maximum amount (μg/mL) of KP was excreted through the urine of all participated patients during the first two hours (h) of oral administration. Likewise, a fast depletion in blood plasma concentration started early after oral administration. Overall, the present method provided a convenient, rapid, and reliable solution for the routine analysis and kinetic study of KP in biological samples. Keywords: HPLC, Ketoprofen, Rapid analysis, Urinary and plasma excretion

Abstract In this paper, we shall present some reverse arithmetic-geometric mean operator inequalities for unital positive linear maps. These inequalities improve some corresponding results due to Xue (J. Inequal. Appl. 2017:283, 2017).

In the present work, Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by the chemical co-precipitation method using Zinc Chloride as the initial chemical, while Nickel and Cobalt chloride as dopants. Phase identification of metal (Ni, Co) doped Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (NPs) was observed using x-ray diffraction (XRD). The small lattice distortion or phase changes appeared due to shifting of diffraction angles peaks towards larger angle in ZnO are corresponded to metal (Ni, Co) dopant. The average crystallite size appears to decrement in NP size from 7.67 nm to 6.52 nm and 5.35 nm to 5.17 nm with increasing 5 % to 80 % of metal (Ni, Co) dopant respectively. The optical characteristics, including the absorption spectra of the prepared sample were observed through UV–Vis spectroscopy, Meanwhile SEM confirmed the observation of composition change in specimen with metal (Ni, Co) dopant concentration. The bandgap value was also found decrement 5.23 eV to 5.05 eV with increment of metal (Ni, Co) dopant concentration. The functional groups were measured by Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). FTIR peaks found the metal (Ni, Co) doped ZnO with the vibration mode of (Zn2+ –O2−) ions due to the increment of dopant concentrations. Furthermore, electrical results show the ohmic behavior of prepared samples. These findings indicate the possibility of tuning optical, structural and electrical properties of metal (Ni, Co) doped ZnO with various dopant concentrations of Nickel and will have great potential to find application in optoelectronic devices.

Cortical slow oscillations (SOs) and thalamocortical sleep spindles are two prominent EEG rhythms of slow wave sleep. These EEG rhythms play an essential role in memory consolidation. In humans, sleep spindles are categorized into slow spindles (8-12 Hz) and fast spindles (12-16 Hz), with different properties. Slow spindles that couple with the up-to-down phase of the SO require more experimental and computational investigation to disclose their origin, functional relevance and most importantly their relation with SOs regarding memory consolidation. To examine slow spindles, we propose a biophysical thalamocortical model with two independent thalamic networks (one for slow and the other for fast spindles). Our modeling results show that fast spindles lead to faster cortical cell firing, and subsequently increase the amplitude of the cortical local field potential (LFP) during the SO down-to-up phase. Slow spindles also facilitate cortical cell firing, but the response is slower, thereby increasing the cortical LFP amplitude later, at the SO up-to-down phase of the SO cycle. Neither the SO rhythm nor the duration of the SO down state is affected by slow spindle activity. Furthermore, at a more hyperpolarized membrane potential level of fast thalamic subnetwork cells, the activity of fast spindles decreases, while the slow spindles activity increases. Together, our model results suggest that slow spindles may facilitate the initiation of the following SO cycle, without however affecting expression of the SO Up and Down states.

Background and Objectives: Lamellar ichthyosis is a rare skin disease characterized by large, dark brown plate-like scales on the entire body surface with minimum or no erythema. This phenotype is frequently associated with a mutation in the TGM1 gene, encoding the enzyme transglutaminase 1 which plays a catalytic role in the formation of the cornified cell envelop. The present study aimed to carry out clinical and genetic characterization of the autosomal recessive lamellar ichthyosis family from Balochistan. Materials and Methods: A consanguineous family with lamellar ichthyosis was enrolled from Balochistan, Pakistan. PCR amplification of all the exons and splice site junctions of the TGM1 gene followed by Sanger sequencing was performed on the genomic DNA. The identified variant was checked by In silico prediction tools to evaluate the effect of the variant on protein. Results: Sanger sequencing identified a homozygous nonsense variant c.131G >A (p.Trp44*) in the TGM1 gene that segregated in the autosomal recessive mode of inheritance in the family. The identified variant results in premature termination of transcribed mRNA and is predicted to cause a truncated or absent translation product transglutaminase-1 (TGase-1) accompanied by loss of catalytic activity, causing a severe clinical phenotype of lamellar ichthyosis in the patients. Conclusions: Here, we report a consanguineous lamellar ichthyosis family with a homozygous nonsense variant in the TGM1 gene. The variant is predicted as pathogenic by different In silico prediction tools.