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The improved wear and corrosion resistance of gray cast iron (GCI) with enhanced mechanical properties is a proven stepping stone towards the longevity of its versatile industrial applications. In this article, we have tailored the microstructural properties of GCI by alloying it with titanium (Ti) and tungsten (W) additives, which resulted in improved mechanical, wear, and corrosion resistance. The results also show the nucleation of the B-, D-, and E-type graphite flakes with the A-type graphite flake in the alloyed GCI microstructure. Additionally, the alloyed microstructure demonstrated that the ratio of the pearlite volume percentage to the ferrite volume percentage was improved from 67/33 to 87/13, whereas a reduction in the maximum graphite length and average grain size from 356 ± 31 µm to 297 ± 16 µm and 378 ± 18 µm to 349 ± 19 µm was detected. Consequently, it improved the mechanical properties and wear and corrosion resistance of alloyed GCI. A significant improvement in Brinell hardness, yield strength, and tensile strength of the modified microstructure from 213 ± 7 BHN to 272 ± 8 BHN, 260 ± 3 MPa to 310 ± 2 MPa, and 346 ± 12 MPa to 375 ± 7 MPa was achieved, respectively. The substantial reduction in the wear rate of alloyed GCI from 8.49 × 10−3 mm3/N.m to 1.59 × 10−3 mm3/N.m resulted in the upgradation of the surface roughness quality from 297.625 nm to 192.553 nm. Due to the increase in the corrosion potential from −0.5832 V to −0.4813 V, the impedance of the alloyed GCI was increased from 1545 Ohm·cm2 to 2290 Ohm·cm2. On the basis of the achieved experimental results, it is suggested that the reliability of alloyed GCI based on experimentally validated microstructural compositions can be ensured during the operation of plants and components in a severe wear and corrosive environment. It can be predicted that the proposed alloyed GCI components are capable of preventing the premature failure of high-tech components susceptible to a wear and corrosion environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symmetry-related problems can be addressed by means of group theory, and ring theory can be seen as an extension of additive group theory. Ring theory, a significant topic in abstract algebra, is currently active in a diverse range of study domains across the disciplines of mathematics, theoretical physics and coding theory. The study of ideals is vital to the theory of rings in a wide range of ways. The uncertainties present in the information are addressed well by the q-rung orthopair fuzzy set (q-ROFS). Considering the significance of ring theory and the q-ROFS, this article defines q-rung orthopair fuzzy ideals (q-ROFIs) in conventional rings and investigates its various algebraic features. We introduce the notion of q-rung orthopair fuzzy cosets (q-ROFCs) of a q-ROFI and demonstrate that, under certain binary operations, the collection of all q-ROFCs of a q-ROFI forms a ring. In addition, we provide a q-rung orthopair analog of the fundamental theorem of ring homomorphism. Furthermore, we present the notion of q-rung orthopair fuzzy semi-prime ideals (q-ROFSPIs) and provide a comprehensive explanation of their many algebraic properties. Finally, regular rings were characterized using q-ROFIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pythagorean fuzzy set is an extension of the intuitionistic fuzzy set used to handle uncertain circumstances in various decisions making problems. Group theory is a mathematical technique for dealing with problems of symmetry. This study deals with Pythagorean fuzzy group theory. In this article, we characterize the notion of a Pythagorean fuzzy subgroup and examine various algebraic properties of this concept. An extensive study on Pythagorean fuzzy cosets of a Pythagorean fuzzy subgroup, Pythagorean fuzzy normal subgroups of a group and Pythagorean fuzzy normal subgroup of a Pythagorean fuzzy subgroup is performed. We define the notions of Pythagorean fuzzy homomorphism and isomorphism and generalize the notion of factor group of a classical group W relative to its normal subgroup S by defining a PFSG of W S . At the end, the Pythagorean fuzzy version of fundamental theorems of isomorphisms is proved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The q -rung orthopair fuzzy environment is an innovative tool to handle uncertain situations in various decision-making problems. In this work, we characterize the idea of a q -rung orthopair fuzzy subgroup and examine various algebraic attributes of this newly defined notion. We also present q -rung orthopair fuzzy coset and q -rung orthopair fuzzy normal subgroup along with relevant fundamental theorems. Moreover, we introduce the concept of q -rung orthopair fuzzy level subgroup and proved related results. At the end, we explore the consequence of group homomorphism on the q -rung orthopair fuzzy subgroup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug trafficking through concealment has always been a method of choice for drug traffickers all around the world. This case shares a new trend in the smuggling of illicit drugs by applying a coating of drug and polymer mixture on fabric. A white fabric sample was submitted by a law enforcement agency to detect the presence of any explosive material on its surface. Later on it was also tested for illicit drugs. Stereomicroscope and Scanning Electron Microscope/Energy Dispersive X‐ray Detector (SEM/EDX) were applied for microscopic examination. Acetone extract of the sample was analyzed for explosives by explosive detection kit, Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GCMS), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The routine method involving methanol as solvent was used to check heroin presence. Methanol extract of the sample was analyzed by Mecke test and GCMS. Stereomicroscope and SEM/EDX revealed the presence of some unusual coating on one side of fabric. No explosive material was detected; instead GCMS (method 1) confirmed the presence of heroin (mass fragments 268, 310, 327, and 369 m/z) and FTIR spectrum revealed presence of a polymeric material (dyneema). No drug was identified by GCMS (method 2). Method 2 was modified by replacing methanol with acetone and including an additional step of sonication for 30 min. Acetone extract showed green color with Mecke reagent and a strong signal of heroin on GCMS. This modified extraction method acted well to unbind the coated material from the fabric and to disentangle the drug from the polymer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium ferrites belong to normal spinel ferrites, and they exhibit interesting electrical, magnetic, and optical properties. The pure and cerium-doped cadmium ferrites CdFe2−xCexO4 (x = 0.0, 0.125, 0.250, 0.375, 0.5) were synthesized by a chemical co-precipitating technique using sodium hydroxide as a co-precipitating agent. The structures and phase purity of fabricated nanomaterials were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The crystallite size for all the prepared nanomaterials was in the range of 28–46 nm. The lattice constant and unit cell volume were found to decrease with the increasing concentration of Cerium, which was confirmed by the peak shift in the XRD pattern. The X-ray density for all nano ferrites increased with the enhancement of cerium composition. The resistivity of the nanomaterials has random behavior with the enhancement of cerium composition for a temperature, but the value of resistivity at x = 0.125 has the lowest value and at x = 0.375 has the highest value for almost all temperatures. For specific concentrations, a decreasing trend of resistivity of fabricated materials was found with an increment of temperature. The activation energies were also calculated, and it increased for x = 0.125 and then decreased for all the nanomaterials. For the confirmation of the M–O bonds, FTIR analysis of all the nano ferrites was also performed. The analysis shows a higher frequency absorption band in the range of 531.24–534.84 cm−1. This absorption band confirms that metal oxides are formed in all the synthesized nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The embrittlement X factor for weld metal is 45, which is three times more than the recommended value (≤15). • It is apprehended that the fractured metal part could be susceptible to temper embrittlement. • The Charpy impact energy absorbed by the fractured metal is 13 J, which is lower than impact energy absorbed by the base metal 300 J. • The scanning electron microscopy demonstrated intergranular crack propagation, discontinuous cracking along grain boundaries, and blunted cracks at grain interiors. • The fractography is performed on the fracture surface of the impact test specimens and it indicated heavily cavitated intergranular facets along the grain boundaries and deep secondary cracks on the fracture surface. • These findings suggested that the severe cracking observed in the fire tube at the U-bend is likely due to temper embrittlement (TE) induced by exposure of the fire tube material to elevated temperatures. Overheating, corrosive degradation, hydrogen embrittlement, creep, erosion, and corrosion are the cause of most failure problems in fire tubes. Herein, we have evaluated the macrostructural, microstructural, and mechanical properties at welded U-bend of the fractured fire tube to analyze the failure of the SA 387 grade 22 steel heater treater fire tube that has been under continuous use for 18 years at an oil refinery. We have found that the embrittlement factor at U-bend proved to be the most significant factor in its failure. The embrittlement X factor for weld metal is 45, which is three times more than the recommended value (≤15). It is apprehended that the fractured metal part could be susceptible to temper embrittlement. There is a significant higher hardness value of weld metal as compared to base metal, which is due to metallic phase transition at high temperature. The Charpy impact energy absorbed by the fractured metal is 13 J, which is lower than impact energy absorbed by the base metal 300 J. The macroscopic examination reveals that the crack initiated on the emulsion side and propagated radially in welded U-bend before extending further into the base metal in the axial direction. The scanning electron microscopy demonstrated intergranular crack propagation, discontinuous cracking along grain boundaries, and blunted cracks at grain interiors. The fractography is performed on the fracture surface of the impact test specimens, and it indicated heavily cavitated intergranular facets along the grain boundaries and deep secondary cracks on the fracture surface. Energy disperse spectroscopy identified the carbides formation at the U-bend cracking parts, which counter confirm the microstructural phase transition. These findings suggested that the severe cracking observed in the fire tube at the U-bend is likely due to temper embrittlement (TE) induced by exposure of the fire tube material to elevated temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading global health concern. There is a critical need for accurate and reliable decision-making tools to select the optimal approach for diagnosing cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this study, we have addressed this pressing issue. Complex intuitionistic fuzzy set (CIFS) theory is adept at encapsulating vagueness due to its capability to encompass comprehensive problem specifications characterized by both intuitionistic uncertainty and periodicity. Within the scope of this article, we present two novel aggregation operators: the complex intuitionistic fuzzy dynamic weighted averaging (CIFDWA) operator and the complex intuitionistic fuzzy dynamic weighted geometric (CIFDWG) operator. Some intriguing characteristics of these operators are elucidated, and important special cases are also defined in detail. We devise an enhanced score function to rectify the deficiencies observed in the existing score function under complex intuitionistic fuzzy knowledge. Furthermore, these operators are employed in the development of a systematic approach for the handling of multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) scenarios involving complex intuitionistic fuzzy data. Moreover, we undertake the resolution of an MADM problem, wherein we ascertain the optimal approach for diagnosing cardiovascular disease (CVD) through the utilization of the proposed operators, thereby substantiating their utility in decision-making processes. Finally, we conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis, pitting the presented operators against an array of existing counterparts, in order to demonstrate the reliability and stability inherent in the derived methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let H =< x, y : x² = y6 = 1 > be acting on ℚ (√-n) and denote the subset { a+√-n/3c : a, a²+n/3c, c ∈ ℤ\{0}} of ∈ √-n) by ℚ* (√-n). Also d (n) denotes the arithmetic function which is defined as the number of positive divisors of n which are multiple of 3. In this paper, we show that the total number of orbits of ℚ* (√-n) under the action of H are ... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinosol A (1) and spinosol B (2) were isolated as new steroids from the chloroform soluble fraction of Capparis spinosa. The structures of both 1 and 2 were elucidated with the help of chemical tests and sophisticated spectroscopic techniques (1D and 2D NMR, EIMS, HREIMS). The compounds 1 and 2 showed significant inhibitory potential against the Lipoxygenase enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dyslipidemia is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease in diabetes mellitus. Dyslipidemia was highly prevalent in all the geopolitical zones with the consistent pattern being low HDL-Cholesterol and high LDL-Cholesterol. The prevalence of dyslipidemia ranged from 60% among apparently healthy to 89% among diabetic. To determine Frequency of dyslipidemia in newly-detected type-2 diabetics. Material & Methods: This cross sectional descriptive study was conducted at department to general Medicine, Khalifa Gul Nawaz Teaching Hospital, Bannu over 189 patients of type-2 diabetics from January 2017 to November 2017 lipid profile was carry out, once the patients were diagnosed. To find out dyslipidemia. Results: Out of 189 patients, 123 were males and 66 females with age range of 35-80 years (Means 57.61 years ±10.25 SD). Over all frequency of dyslipidemia in newly-detected type-2 diabetics (T2DM) were observed in 71.4%. Conclusion: The present study provides evidence to suggest that lipid variables are associated with each other in T2DM patient among the population in this part of the world which aggravates the atherogenic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Each conjugacy class of actions of $$PGL\left( {2,{\mathbb {Z}}} \right) $$ on the projective line over a finite field $$F_q $$ denoted by $$PL\left( {F_q } \right) $$ , can be represented by a coset diagram $$D\left( {\theta ,q} \right) $$ , where $$\theta \in F_q $$ and q is a prime power. The coset diagrams are composed of fragments, and the fragments are further composed of two or more circuits at a certain common point. Professor Graham Higman raised a question: for what values of q and $$\theta $$ , can a fragment $$\gamma $$ be found in $$D\left( {\theta ,q} \right) ?$$ Mushtaq in 1983 found that the condition for the existence of a fragment in $$D\left( {\theta ,q} \right) $$ is a polynomial f in $${\mathbb {Z}}\left[ z \right] $$ . In this paper, we answer the question: how many polynomials are obtained from the fragments, composed by joining the circuits $$\left( {n_1 ,n_2 } \right) $$ and $$\left( {m_1 ,m_2 } \right) $$ , where $$n_2

This study deals with the molecular systematics of Asian collections of Hebeloma theobrominum and H. mesophaeum which have not been previously reported from any Himalayan part of the world, and are new to Pakistan. Both were identified using morpho-anatomical and molecular characterization. The target rDNA of both species was amplified by using universal fungal primers. In phylogenetic analysis, both species distinctly clustered with their respective groups. These both species have been described first time from Asia using ITS-rDNA barcoding. The sequences of both species were compared with those of same European species from the GenBank. These species clustered with European species in phylogenetic tree proving their cosmopolitan distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weaverbirds are a speciose group of colorful passerines inhabiting the Old World Tropics. Nevertheless, the Oriental weaverbirds (Ploceus spp.), widespread across southern Asia, are much less diverse and restricted to a few ecological niches compared to their African counterpart. To investigate their phylogeography, we retrieved 101 samples of Baya Weaver (P. philippinus), Streaked Weaver (P. manyar), Black-Throated Weaver (P. benghalensis) and Asian Golden Weaver (P. hypoxanthus) along with GenBank sequences of Finn's Weaver (P. megarhynchus). We reconstructed the first molecular phylogeny based on a dataset consisting of both mitochondrial and nuclear genes, dating the most recent common ancestor of Oriental Ploceus to ∼11 mya. Subsequent speciation appears to have been a combination of divergence within the Indian subcontinent and dispersal across a barrier situated between the Indian subcontinent and the Indochinese region, which provided habitats with a varying degree of isolations and ultimately promoted divergences in allopatry. Two descendants of the earliest nodes, P. megarhynchus and P. hypoxanthus , are both rare and local, often found near large river systems, which perhaps reflects niche conservatism and a lack of adaptive potential. The three smaller species are all widespread, common and less habitat specific. The most recent divergence, between western and eastern P. philippinus populations, is supported by both phylogenetic and morphological evidence, pointing toward limited gene flow between them. However, a zone of intergradation may exist in Myanmar and Brahmaputra flood plains, thus preventing a recommendation for species level recognition without further study. [Display omitted] • Stepping-stone eastward dispersal of Oriental weaverbirds in southern Asia. • Large river systems represented major pathways of dispersal, yet divergence in allopatry also occurred. • The evolutionary radiation of Oriental weaverbirds mirrors the impact of paleoclimatic events on faunal colonization in southern Asia. • Deep intraspecific divergence between western and eastern populations of Ploceus philippinus calling for further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous silicon (PSi) samples fabricated by electrochemical etching method at current density (40) mA/cm 2 with different etching time (3, 3:30, 4, 4:30) min where ZnO, TiO 2 and 70% ZnO:30% TiO 2 deposited by chemical spray pyrolysis to be applied for gas sensors, these sample have been investigated scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. XRD measurement has confirmed the crystallinity with Nanopores were produced on the PSi layer. The (FE-SEM) photographs revealed the highly porous structure which proved ideal for the performance as gas sensing element. AFM confirms the nanometric size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the irrigation water scarcity, inefficient irrigation supplies to farm lands, increasing temperature with high evaporation rate and poor sowing, an experiment was conducted at the research farm of the University of Agriculture, Peshawar during 2011-12. In the study three factors were studied i.e., sowing methods, mulching and deficit irrigation with four levels viz: full irrigation (DI0), 20% deficit irrigation (DI20), 40% deficit irrigation (DI40) and 60% deficit irrigation (DI60). Soil moisture was continuously monitored and full irrigation was determined on the basis of 50% Management Allowed Deficit (MAD). Results indicated that sowing methods, mulching and various levels of deficit irrigation significantly (P<0.05) affected wheat yield and nitrogen uptake. Raised beds cultivation produced higher number of tillersm (415), grain yield (5.13 t ha-1), biological yield (12.02 t ha-1) and total nitrogen uptake (141.7 kg ha-1) as compared to the traditional flat bed. Similarly, mulch plots resulted in higher tillersm (404) wheat grain yield (4.94 t ha-1), biological yield (11.94 t ha-1) and total nitrogen uptake (137.6 kg ha-1) than flat bed. In deficit irrigation, maximum tillers m-2 (412), wheat yield (5.20 t ha-1), biological yield (11.98 t ha-1) and total nitrogen uptake (144.7 kg ha-1) was recorded at full irrigation application followed by 20% deficit. None of the interactions were found significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chroogomphus roseolus is a common mycorrhizal species exclusively found with Pinus wallichiana which has been collected from Himalayan moist forests of Pakistan. Taxonomically, this species is previously not described from Pakistan and also first time reported outside Chinese territory. In this study, Pakistani collection has been characterized on morphological and molecular basis. Macrosopic characters like size, shape and colour of pileus, stipe and spore are compared in Cinese European and North American literature for its identification. Its Internal Transcribed Spacers (ITS) of ribosomal DNA sequence was amplified using universal primer pair (ITS1f and ITS4) and nucleotide sequences queried in GenBank database using BLAST analysis where it matches 99% with sequences of the same species from China. Phylogenetic analysis, description, photographs and line drawings of Pakistani collection confirmed as Chroogomphus roseolus. The exclusive presence of this species Pinus wallichiana indicates that it can be used in mycorrhization control in afforestation and reforestation of Pinus wallichiana vegetation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) was prepared using chemical spray pyrolysis technique on glass substrate at 350 °C with a spray rate of 5 s/1 min, for a thickness of 350 nm. The material characterization of the TiO 2 nanofiber was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The optical absorption of the fibers was measured using a UV – vis spectrophotometer. The X-ray diffraction measurements confirmed that the films grown by this technique have good crystalline tetragonal anatase phase structure and with the preferred orientation along the [1 0 1] direction. The surface morphology of the TiO 2 fibers showed that the micrography of the nanofiber are extra-fine. UV – vis transmittance measurements have shown that TiO2 fibers are highly transparent (∼90 (%in the visible wavelength region. The optical band gap of TiO 2 fiber is 3.32 eV. The diameters of titanium dioxide nanotubes are found to be 30 – 60 nm, retaining the size and near cylindrical shape of the pores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shot-hole disease is one of the most common and significant diseases affecting cherry trees in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, every year. It results in small reddish areas on leaves and fruits, forming characteristic holes. However, the pathogen associated with the disease, its pathogenicity, and its growth performance under different environmental conditions remains unknown. In this study, the pathogen associated with shot-hole disease was identified as W. carpophilus. Furthermore, variations in pathogenicity were observed among the five isolates of the pathogen (SRA-1, SRA-2, SRA-3, SRA-4, and SRA-5), with SRA-5 exhibiting smaller lesion sizes and SRA-1 to SRA-4 displaying larger lesion sizes. Differential responses to temperature variations were noted, with isolates SRA-1 and SRA-4 growing faster at different temperature regimes. Conidia count and biomass measurements revealed isolate-specific patterns under varying temperature regimes. Growth performance and colony characteristics varied among isolates. Environmental responses indicated sensitivity to osmotic potential and pH, as well as preferences for different culture media. This research provides crucial insights into the morphology, behavior, and adaptation of W. carpophilus. These findings will facilitate the establishment of management strategies against shot-hole disease in cherry orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first detailed report on molecular identification of aboveground fruiting body as well as its ectomycorrhiza, Lactarius species, associated with wide host range. Lactarius sanguifluus growing in association with different host trees: Juglans, Populus and Quercus were collected from Galyat, Pakistan along with soil blocks containing plant roots. The genomic DNA was extracted from basidiocarps and roots of different trees. The internal transcribed spacers (ITS) region of rDNA was amplified using forward primer ITS1F and reverse primer ITS4, which generated fragments of 700-750bp. The aboveground sequences showed base similarity more than 99% with L. sanguifluus submitted from Europe (FJ858746, AF249289). The phylogenetic analysis of above and belowground parts of L. sanguifluus showed their clustering in same clade with same species. Sequence data of seven specimens is being published from Pakistan; two belong to epigeous L. sanguifluus (HF559378.1, HF559379.1), four ectomycorrhizal roots; two associated with Quercus incana (HF559374.1, HF559375.1), one associated with Pinus wallichiana (HF559376.1), one associated with Juglans regia (HE615155) and one ectomycorrhizal sequence of L. semisanguifluus (HF559377.1) associated with Q. incana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lepiota acutesquamosa and L. cristata (Basidiomycota, Agaricales) collected from Himalayan moist temperate forests of Pakistan were characterized using internal transcribed spacers (ITS) of rNDA, a fungal molecular marker. The ITS-rDNA of both species was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing. The target region when amplified using universal fungal primers (ITS1F and ITS4) generated 650-650bp fragments. Consensus sequences of both species were submitted for initial blast analysis which revealed and confirmed the identification of both species by comparing the sequences of these respective species already present in the GenBank. Sequence of Pakistani collection of L. acutesquamosa matched 99% with sequences of same species (FJ998400) and Pakistani L. cristata matched 97% with its sequences (EU081956, U85327, AJ237628). Further, in phylogenetic analysis both species distinctly clustered with their respective groups. Morphological characters like shape, size and color of basidiomata, basidiospore size, basidial lengths, shape and size of cheilocystidia of both collections were measured and compared. Both these species have been described first time from Pakistan on morph-anatomical and molecular basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The floristic composition and its ecological characteristics were evaluated in Aghberg rangelands of Quetta Pakistan during 2005 to 2007. The study showed that the protected sites supported 123 plant species belonging to 36 families, while unprotected sites had only 28 species. Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Poaceae, Brassicaceae, Lamiaceae and Boraginaceae were important families in the protected area. Seriphedium qutensis (Pedleh) Ling, Sophora mollis (Royle) Baker, Hertia intrmedia Boiss, Nepeta juncea Benth, Astragalus Spp. and Convolvulus leiocalycinus Boiss were most common shrubs. Pennisetum orientale Rich, Bromus tectorum Linn, Bromus sericeus Drabov, Schismus arabicus Nees, Poa pratensis Linn, Cymbopogon jwarancusa (Jones) Schult, Lolium temulentum Linn, Eremopyrum benouepartes (Spreng) Noveski, Tanantherum crinatum (Schrab) Noveski and Saccharum bengalense Retz were most common grasses. Biological spectrum showed that therophytic, chamaephytic and hemicryptophytic life forms and among nanophylls leaf sizes leptophylls and mesophylls dominant in the area. Flora was rich in economic plants of various uses that included as fodder (101 Spp.), medicinal (13 Spp.), vegetable/fruits (3 Spp.), fuel wood (25 Spp.), roof thatching (6 Spp.), herbal tea (3 Spp.) species. Protection has increased the floristic diversity. It is suggested that for achieving the goal of sustainable production, the Government should beep up efforts for ecological management with the participation of local communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amanita ovoidea and A. rubescens belonging to family Amanitaceae (Fungi: Basidiomycota), and Agrocybe pracecox and A. dura belonging to family Strophariaceae were collected from Gilgit-Baltistan, Province. Of these, A. ovoidea, A. pracecox and A. dura appeared to be new records from Pakistan not hitherto reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper describes 2 new records of the family Lintinaceae viz., Lentinus lepideus Fr. Epicr and Lentinus tigrinus (Bull) Fr.Epicr from Gilgit-Baltistan. All these species are reported for the first time from Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species viz., Panaeolus papilionaceus (Fr.) Quel, Panaeolus sphinctrinus (Fr.) Staude and Stropharia hornimannii (Fr.) Lund belonging to family Strophariaceae and order Agaricales are described. The Panaeolus papilionaceus and P. sphinctrinus are characterized by at first bell shaped are describe cap, convex then flattened, slightly umbonate. Stem smooth, radially vained, tapering slightly upwards or equal, slender. Gills fairly crowded and adenate. Spore print black. Smell indistinct. Spores ellipsoid, smooth. While the Stropharia hornimannii have at first convex then flattened, sticky and, smooth cap. Stem tapering slightly downwards, rather stout, ring present near the cap. Gills fairly crowded, adnate. Spore print brown. Smell unpleasant. Spores ellipsoid, smooth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) pose a significant hazard to the security of the general public, especially in developing nations. A daily average of more than three thousand fatalities is recorded worldwide, rating it as the second most prevalent cause of death among people aged 5–29. Precise and reliable decisionmaking techniques are essential for identifying the most effective approach to mitigate road traffic incidents. This research endeavors to investigate this specific concern. The Fermatean fuzzy set (FFS) is a strong and efficient method for addressing ambiguity, particularly when the concept of Pythagorean fuzzy set fails to provide a solution. This research presents two innovative aggregation operators: the Fermatean fuzzy ordered weighted averaging (FFOWA) operator and the Fermatean fuzzy dynamic ordered weighted geometric (FFOWG) operator. The salient characteristics of these operators are discussed and important exceptional scenarios are thoroughly delineated. Furthermore, by implementing the suggested operators, we develop a systematic approach to handle multiple attribute decisionmaking (MADM) scenarios that involve Fermatean fuzzy (FF) data. In order to show the viability of the developed method, we provide a numerical illustration encompassing the determination of the most effective approach to alleviate road traffic accidents. Lastly, we conduct a comparative evaluation of the proposed approach in relation to a number of established methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present the study of μ -fuzzy subgroups and prove numerous fundamental algebraic attributes of this newly defined notion. We also define the concept of μ -fuzzy normal subgroup and investigate many vital algebraic characteristics of these phenomena. In addition, we characterize the quotient group induced by this particular fuzzy normal subgroup and establish a group isomorphism between the quotient groups G / κ μ and G / κ ∗ μ . Furthermore, we initiate the study of level subgroup, open level subgroup, and tangible subgroup of a μ -fuzzy subgroup and emphasize the significance of μ -fuzzy normal subgroups by establishing a relationship between these newly defined notions and μ -fuzzy normal subgroup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coset diagrams for the action of PSL(2,Z) on real quadratic irrational numbers are infinite graphs. These graphs are composed of circuits. When modular group acts on projective line over the finite field Fq, denoted by PL(Fq), vertices of the circuits in these infinite graphs are contracted and ultimately a finite coset diagram emerges. Thus the coset diagrams for PL(Fq) is composed of homomorphic images of the circuits in infinite coset diagrams. In this paper, we consider a circuit in which one vertex is fixed by (xy)m1(xy-1)m2, that is, (m1,m2). Let α be the homomorphic image of (m1,m2) obtained by contracting a pair of vertices v, u of (m1,m2). If we change the pair of vertices and contract them, it is not necessary that we get a homomorphic image different from α. In this paper, we answer the question: how many distinct homomorphic images are obtained, if we contract all the pairs of vertices of (m1,m2)? We also mention those pairs of vertices, which are 'important'. There is no need to contract the pairs, which are not mentioned as 'important'. Because, if we contract those, we obtain a homomorphic image, which we have already obtained by contracting 'important' pairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of complex fuzzy sets defined over the meet operator (ξ – CFS) is a useful mathematical tool in which range of degrees is extended from [0, 1] to complex plane with unit disk. These particular complex fuzzy sets plays a significant role in solving various decision making problems as these particular sets are powerful extensions of classical fuzzy sets. In this paper, we define ξ – CFS and propose the notion of complex fuzzy subgroups defined over ξ – CFS (ξ – CFSG) along with their various fundamental algebraic characteristics. We extend the study of this idea by defining the concepts of ξ – complex fuzzy homomorphism and ξ – complex fuzzy isomorphism between any two ξ – complex fuzzy subgroups and establish fundamental theorems of ξ – complex fuzzy morphisms. In addition, we effectively apply the idea of ξ – complex fuzzy homomorphism to refine the corrupted homomorphic image by eliminating its distortions in order to obtain its original form. Moreover, to view the true advantage of ξ – complex fuzzy homomorphism, we present a comparative analysis with the existing knowledge of complex fuzzy homomorphism which enables us to choose this particular approach to solve many decision-making problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explains the idea of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs as a powerful way to analyze and display relationships that are difficult to understand. The article also illustrates the ability of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs to establish complex relationships with multiple factors or dimensions of a physical situation under consideration. Moreover, the fundamental set operations of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs are proposed. The notions of homomorphism and isomorphism of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs are also introduced. Furthermore, the paper highlights a practical application of the proposed technique in the context of poverty reduction within a specific society. By employing t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs, the research demonstrates the potential to address the multifaceted nature of poverty, considering various contributing factors and their interdependencies. This application showcases the versatility and effectiveness of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs as a tool for decision-making and policy planning in complex societal issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we study some combinatorial properties of biquadratic irrational number field Q (i , 3) , under the action of a Bianchi group Γ 3 = P S L (2 , O 3 ). In this experiment it is revealed that a special class of elements exists; that is, for an element ξ its conjugate ξ ¯ has different signs in the closed path (orbits) for the action of Γ 3 over Q (i , 3) , known as ambiguous numbers. It is also proved that the orbit Γ ξ defined on a finite number of ambiguous numbers succeeding a unique closed path. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we presents the idea of η -intuitionistic fuzzy subgroup (IFSG) defined on η -intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS). Furthermore, we prove that every IFSG is an η -IFSG. Also, we extend the study of this notion to define η -intuitionistic fuzzy cosets and η -intuitionistic fuzzy normal subgroups of a given group and investigate some of their fundamental algebraic features. Besides, we define the η -intuitionistic fuzzy homomorphism between two η -IFSG's and show that an η -intuitionistic fuzzy homomorphic image (inverse image) of the η -IFSG is an η -IFSG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explains the idea of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs as a powerful way to analyze and display relationships that are difficult to understand. The article also illustrates the ability of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs to establish complex relationships with multiple factors or dimensions of a physical situation under consideration. Moreover, the fundamental set operations of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs are proposed. The notions of homomorphism and isomorphism of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs are also introduced. Furthermore, the paper highlights a practical application of the proposed technique in the context of poverty reduction within a specific society. By employing t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs, the research demonstrates the potential to address the multifaceted nature of poverty, considering various contributing factors and their interdependencies. This application showcases the versatility and effectiveness of t-intuitionistic fuzzy graphs as a tool for decision-making and policy planning in complex societal issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): The objective of this study was to evaluate pharmacological effect of Calligonum polygonoides against Krait snake's venom acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and to extent it for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Materials and Methods: Acetylcholinesterase activity was measured using Ellman method with some modification. The kinetic studies of methanolic extract of C. polygonoides against krait (Bungarus Sindanus) snake venom AChE was measured with the help of the Lineweaver Burk double reciprocal plot. Results: Statistical data of the results showed that C. polygonoides extract inhibited the krait venom AChE in concentration dependent manner. Kinetic analysis using Line weaver Burk plot revealed that C. polygonoides caused mixed type of inhibition i.e. km value increased (25-106.6%) while Vmax decreased from 15 to 50% with an increase of C. polygonoides extract concentrations (100-300 μg/ ml). The calculated IC50 value of C. polygonoides was found to be 250 μg/ml. Conclusion: C. polygonoides extract can be considered as a therapeutic agent to cure Alzheimer's disease via inhibition of AChE activity to increase the level of acetylcholine in the body system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar panels hold a significant amount of importance at an industrial level because they contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions, contribute to cost savings through reduced electricity bills, provide energy independence and reliability, and serve as a long-term investment with attractive returns. One of the objectives of this research article is to address the limitations of the current score function utilized in multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problems within an interval-valued picture fuzzy (IVPF) environment and to present an enhanced score function. Moreover, IVPF hybrid arithmetic operators and IVPF hybrid geometric operators are introduced in this article. These operators are further thoroughly examined to identify their key characteristics. By conducting a case study, an algorithm is formulated to select the most suitable solar panel to maximize energy availability at the industrial level in the framework of the newly proposed IVPF hybrid operators. In addition, a comprehensive comparative study is conducted to demonstrate the significance and validity of recently proposed novel techniques compared with existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airports located in densely populated areas often face challenges due to asymmetrical traffic patterns. Efficient management and careful planning are required to handle the disproportionate flow of passengers, aircraft, and ground services. The significance of symmetry and asymmetry in civil aviation extends to international regulations and agreements. By harmonizing standards and practices among different nations, it is possible to achieve symmetry in safety measures and operational procedures, thereby promoting a unified and secure global aviation system. Conversely, asymmetry in regulations, infrastructure development, or technological advancements among countries can create obstacles in establishing a cohesive and equitable international aviation framework. This article discusses the weaknesses of the existing score function in handling the MADM problem in an Interval-Valued Pythagorean Fuzzy (IVPF) environment. To tackle this issue, an enhanced score function is developed as a solution. The article proposes the IVPF Dombi hybrid arithmetic and IVPF Dombi hybrid geometric operators based on IVPF information. Furthermore, the article proves some fundamental properties of these operators. In the context of recently introduced techniques using IVPF settings, an effective method is developed for selecting the best airline. Additionally, a comparative investigation is carried out to demonstrate the legitimacy and viability of this unique strategy in comparison to earlier approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symmetry is a key part of the study of basic forces and particles, as well as the creation of mathematical models that help scientists in various scientific disciplines understand complex events. Scientists can figure out what a system is made of and how it works by looking at its symmetry. They can then use this information to make predictions and create new materials and technologies. Humanity has conquered many once-fatal diseases due to medical research and technological advancements. Although this progress is encouraging, there are still a great many areas that require continual human efforts. An effort is made in this article to choose the best treatment strategy to completely manage the pandemic of COVID-19 under conjunctive complex fuzzy knowledge. In this paper, the concept of conjunctive complex fuzzy relations is presented and numerous set theoretical aspects of this phenomenon are established. The investigation of this ideology is further expanded to describe different sorts of essential structural conjunctive complex fuzzy relations. Matrix and graphical representations of the formation of these newly specified relations are also provided. Moreover, this concept has been successfully employed to provide a therapy strategy for a rapid recovery from COVID-19. Furthermore, a comparative analysis is conducted to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the suggested approaches compared to existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The novel human coronavirus disease COVID-19 has become the fifth documented pandemic since the 1918 flu pandemic. COVID-19 was first reported in Wuhan, China, and subsequently spread worldwide. Almost all of the countries of the world are facing this natural challenge. We present forecasting models to estimate and predict COVID-19 outbreak in Asia Pacific countries, particularly Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, and Bangladesh. We have utilized the latest deep learning techniques such as Long Short Term Memory networks (LSTM), Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), and Gated Recurrent Units (GRU) to quantify the intensity of pandemic for the near future. We consider the time variable and data non-linearity when employing neural networks. Each model's salient features have been evaluated to foresee the number of COVID-19 cases in the next 10 days. The forecasting performance of employed deep learning models shown up to July 01, 2020, is more than 90% accurate, which shows the reliability of the proposed study. We hope that the present comparative analysis will provide an accurate picture of pandemic spread to the government officials so that they can take appropriate mitigation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symmetrical and asymmetrical information plays a critical role in resolving many issues. The implications of symmetry and asymmetry in interval-valued picture fuzzy decision-making, lie in their ability to represent and manage complex data. Decision makers approach the problem of information asymmetry through various methods. Integrating symmetric and asymmetric data in the context of a specific physical phenomenon poses significant challenges. To address these challenges, interval-valued picture fuzzy (IVPF) sets have emerged as an effective tool for managing complex data. In decision-making processes, it is essential to consider the complementary and conflicting nature of the analyzed data. This article aims to refine the shortcomings of the existing score function for Multiple Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) problems in an IVPF environment, and present an improved score function. The IVPF sets are leveraged to propose IVPF weighted arithmetic operators, IVPF ordered weighted arithmetic operators, IVPF weighted geometric operators, and IVPF ordered weighted geometric operators, which are analyzed in terms of their key features. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed score function and newly defined operators, a case study involving the selection of the best food item for manufacturing, is conducted. Additionally, a comparative analysis is established to investigate the significance of the newly defined techniques in solving decision-making problems under IVPF knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Counting Polynomial is the mathematical function that was initially introduced for application in chemistry in 1936 by G. Polya. Partitioning of graphs can be seen in the coefficients of these mathematical functions, which also reveal the frequency with which these partitions happen. We developed a novel and efficient method for constructing the necessary counting polynomials for a zigzag-edge coronoid formed by the fusion of a Starphene graph and a Kekulenes graph. The study's methods expand our knowledge, and its findings potentially provide insight on the topology of these chemical structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The success of any endeavor or process is heavily contingent on the ability to reconcile and satisfy balance requirements, which are often characterized by symmetry considerations. In practical applications, the primary goal of decision-making processes is to efficiently manage the symmetry or asymmetry that exists within different sources of information. In order to address this challenge, the primary aim of this study is to introduce novel Dombi operation concepts that are formulated within the framework of interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy aggregation operators. In this study, an updated score function is presented to resolve the deficiency of the current score function in an interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy environment. The concept of Dombi operations is used to introduce some interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy aggregation operators, including the interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy Dombi weighted arithmetic (IVPFDWA) operator, the interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy Dombi ordered weighted arithmetic (IVPFDOWA) operator, the interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy Dombi weighted geometric (IVPFDWG) operator, and the interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy Dombi ordered weighted geometric (IVPFDOWG) operator. Moreover, the study investigates many important properties of these operators that provide new semantic meaning to the evaluation. In addition, the suggested score function and newly derived interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy Dombi aggregation (IVPFDA) operators are successfully employed to select a subject expert in a certain institution. The proposed approach is demonstrated to be successful through empirical validation. Lastly, a comparative study is conducted to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the suggested approaches in comparison with current techniques. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to advance the field of evaluation and decision-making by providing novel and effective tools and techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate and explore the properties of quasi-topological loops with respect to irresoluteness. Moreover, we construct an example of a quasi-irresolute topological inverse property-loop by using a zero-dimensional additive metrizable perfect topological inverse property-loop L ∗ with relative topology τ L ′ . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate and explore the properties of quasi-topological loops with respect to irresoluteness. Moreover, we construct an example of a quasi-irresolute topological inverse property-loop by using a zero-dimensional additive metrizable perfect topological inverse property-loop L * with relative topology τ L ′ . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with sea salt transportation and deposition mechanisms and discusses the serious issue of degradation of outdoor insulators resulting from various environmental stresses and severe saline contaminant accumulation near the shoreline. The deterioration rate of outdoor insulators near the shoreline depends on the concentration of saline in the atmosphere, the influence of wind speed on the production of saline water droplets, moisture diffusion and saline penetration on the insulator surface. This paper consists of three parts: first a model of saline transportation and deposition, as well as saline penetration and moisture diffusion on outdoor insulators, is presented; second, dry-band initiation and formation modelling and characterization under various types of contamination distribution are proposed; finally, modelling of dry-band arcing validated by experimental investigation was carried out. The tests were performed on a rectangular surface of silicone rubber specimens (12 cm × 4 cm × 8 cm). The visualization of the dry-band formation and arcing was performed by an infrared camera. The experimental results show that the surface strength and arc length mainly depend upon the leakage distance and contamination distribution. Therefore, the model can be used to investigate insulator flashover near coastal areas and for mitigating saline flashover incidents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of the crude extract of organic solvents, hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol was studied for peels of Musa acuminate L. banana that contains the Tyrosinase and determination of the enzymatic efficacy and protein, The concentrations of (0.5, 1 and 2) mg / ml were used in the treatment of the fourth larval instar of the insect and its effect on some biological aspects of Culex molestus mosquitoes in Karbala governorate in February 2018 for mosquitoes control. The results showed an increase in the rate of the fourth larval instar and pupae resulting from the fourth larval instar treatment and the percentage of cumulative mortality of immature stages and the increase in the percent of inhibition of emergence of adult. The use of these extracts led to a decrease in the rate of ages of the immature stages of male and female insect and the appearance of phenotypic deformation in the stages of different insects. The study also evaluated the enzymatic efficacy of Tyrosinase at 0.5 mg / ml and protein concentration of 1.25 mg / ml and the specific efficacy was 0.4 unit/ mg protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two triterpenyl fatty acid esters were isolated from the chloroform soluble fraction of Fagonia cretica and their structures elucidated as 3β-12-ursen-3yl-docosanoate (1) and 3β-12-ursen- 3yl-nonacosanoate (2) by 1D-NMR, 2D-NMR, mass spectrometric and chemical analyses. Both new compounds were also evaluated for their lipoxygenase inhibitory potential using Baicalein as a standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dyspnea is a common symptom in patients presenting to emergency departments worldwide. The objective of the study was to determine the pattern of spirometry findings in subjects presenting with dyspnea in Bannu, KP, Pakistan. Materials & Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Bannu Medical College, Bannu, KP, Pakistan from 1st December 2015 to 31st march 2018. Sample size was 4300 selected through convenient sampling technique. All patients with acute and chronic dyspnea were included. Any patient unable to perform spirometry, recently diagnosed smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), recent myocardial infarction and any infectious disease patient were excluded. A self-administered proforma was used for data collection. The demographic variables were sex and age groups. The research variables were type of lung pathology, severity of obstructive lung pathology, severity of restrictive lung pathology, causes of obstructive lung pathology and causes of restrictive lung pathology. All variables being categorical were analyzed through count and percentages using SPSS version17. Results: Out of 4300 subjects, (55.72%) were males and (44.28%) were females. Two thousands four hundred and forty five (52.32%) had obstructive, (22.49%) restrictive, (12.9%) with mixed pattern and (4.3%) had normal spirometry. In obstructive patients bronchial asthma were (35.13%), COPD 741(30.3%) asthma-COPD overlap syndrome (ACOS) (9.48%), acute bronchitis (05.64%), bronchiectasis 173(7.07%) and unclear diagnosis (04.17%). In restrictive patients post pulmonary tuberculous fibrosis (PTB) were (33.77%), cardiovascular disorders (28.35%), interstitial lung diseases (17.79%), chest wall disorders (6.47%) and unclear diagnosis in 143(13.6%). Conclusion: Ninety five percent of individuals were having an abnormal spirometeric pattern. mostly old males were having bronchial asthma & COPD as obstructive and PTB & CVDs as restrictive lung disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work two new compounds have been isolated from the whole plant of Pervoskia abrotanoides. The structures were elucidated by the extensive use of sophisticated spectroscopic techniques (¹HNMR, 13C-NMR, HMQC, HMBC, ¹H-¹H COSY, NOESY, EIMS, HREIMS, and IR). The structures were characterized as cholest-4,9(11)-diene-2α,3β-diol, 1 and 22α-hydroxy-12-oleanen-3-one, 2. Both the compounds 1 and 2 showed promising inhibitory activity against lipoxygenase enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]