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In this manuscript, we discuss fractional fuzzy Goursat problems with Caputo's g H -differentiability. The second-order mixed derivative term in Goursat problems and two types of Caputo's g H -differentiability pose challenges to dealing with Goursat problems. Therefore, in this study, we convert Goursat problems to equivalent systems fuzzy integral equations to deal properly with the mixed derivative term and two types of Caputo's g H -differentiability. In this study, we utilize the concept of metric fixed point theory to discuss the existence of a unique solution of fractional fuzzy Goursat problems. For the useability of established theoretical work, we provide some numerical problems. We also discuss the solutions to numerical problems by conformable double Laplace transform. To show the validity of the solutions we provide 3D plots. We discuss, as an application, why fractional partial fuzzy differential equations are the generalization of usual partial fuzzy differential equations by providing a suitable reason. Moreover, we show the advantages of the proposed fractional transform over the usual Laplace transform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals (HMs) contamination, owing to their potential links to various chronic diseases, poses a global threat to agriculture, environment, and human health. Nickel (Ni) is an essential element however, at higher concentration, it is highly phytotoxic, and affects major plant functions. Beneficial roles of plant growth regulators (PGRs) and organic amendments in mitigating the adverse impacts of HM on plant growth has gained the attention of scientific community worldwide. Here, we performed a greenhouse study to investigate the effect of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA @ 10− 5 M) and compost (1% w/w) individually and in combination in sustaining cauliflower growth and yield under Ni stress. In our results, combined application proved significantly better than individual applications in alleviating the adverse effects of Ni on cauliflower as it increased various plant attributes such as plant height (49%), root length (76%), curd height and diameter (68 and 134%), leaf area (75%), transpiration rate (36%), stomatal conductance (104%), water use efficiency (143%), flavonoid and phenolic contents (212 and 133%), soluble sugars and protein contents (202 and 199%), SPAD value (78%), chlorophyll 'a and b' (219 and 208%), carotenoid (335%), and NPK uptake (191, 79 and 92%) as compared to the control. Co-application of IAA and compost reduced Ni-induced electrolyte leakage (64%) and improved the antioxidant activities, including APX (55%), CAT (30%), SOD (43%), POD (55%), while reducing MDA and H2O2 contents (77 and 52%) compared to the control. The combined application also reduced Ni uptake in roots, shoots, and curd by 51, 78 and 72% respectively along with an increased relative production index (78%) as compared to the control. Hence, synergistic application of IAA and compost can mitigate Ni induced adverse impacts on cauliflower growth by immobilizing it in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript aims to present new results about the generalized F-contraction of Hardy–Rogers-type mappings in a complete vector-valued metric space, and to demonstrate the fixed-point theorems for single and pairs of generalized F-contractions of Hardy–Rogers-type mappings. The established results represent a significant development of numerous previously published findings and results in the existing body of literature. Furthermore, to ensure the practicality and effectiveness of our findings across other fields, we provide an application that demonstrates a unique solution for the semilinear operator system within the Banach space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotics are the drugs that are used for the management of microbial diseases. However, these conventional synthetic drugs can harmfully affect the human health. Since phytochemicals are extracted from natural sources and, are hence relatively safer for human health, they are the enticing alternatives in this regard. Cinnamon is also one of those plants which is being employed as herbal medication for centuries against certain microbial infections due its significant therapeutic effectiveness. A well-known pathogenic bacterium called H. pylori causes a wide range of illnesses in human body. This pathogen's pathogenicity is determined by certain virulent proteins. In this study, some of such proteins, which included virB4, virB8, and virB9 were selected to evaluate the therapeutic efficiency of cinnamon compounds. These proteins were identified in different isolates of H. pylori. The structural modelling of all these proteins were performed initially in order to proceed them for molecular docking analysis. While, the docking studies illustrated that one of the cinnamon compounds, cinnamyl acetate, showed significant binding interactions with virB4 and virB9. However, benzyl benzoate which is another cinnamon compound, docked well with virB8. Afterwards, the MD simulations were incorporated to explore the interaction motions and structural stability of all the docked complexes. In this regard, the resultant maps of Bfactor, eigenvalues and elastic network model, among other factors ensured the structural stabilities of all the respective complexes. After these crucial estimations, benzyl benzoate and cinnamyl acetate underwent the ADMET investigation to assess their pharmacokinetic characteristics. SwissADME and ADMETLab 2.0 server were employed for this investigation. The compiled findings these servers revealed that both, benzyl benzoate and cinnamyl acetate, exhibited a significant level of pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness conformity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a prevalent and progressive respiratory disorder characterized by airflow limitation and chronic inflammation from prolonged exposure to harmful particles and gases, significantly affects patients' quality of life. Objective: This study examines the impact of corticosteroid therapy on arterial blood gas (ABG) parameters in patients with acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD), evaluating ABG values before and after treatment to determine therapeutic effectiveness. Methods: Conducted at Bahawal Victoria Hospital's Pulmonology Department from August 15, 2022, to January 15, 2023, this quasi-experimental study included 170 COPD patients meeting exacerbation criteria. Exclusions included severe systemic illness, unconsciousness, inability to clear airways, arterial blood pH < 7.35, hemodynamic instability, or cor-pulmonale. Patients consented to a 2-day regimen of nebulized corticosteroid (beclomethasone), with ABG parameters like PaO2 and pH measured before and after treatment. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 24. Results: Initially, 202 patients with AECOPD were enrolled, and nebulized beclomethasone was administered. However, 32 patients who did not respond and required IV steroids were excluded. Among the remaining 170 patients, post-treatment mean PaO2 levels significantly increased from 58.74 mmHg to 69.51 mmHg (p < 0.000). Stratified analyses across different age groups and genders confirmed the therapy's effectiveness in enhancing arterial oxygenation. Conclusion: Nebulized corticosteroid therapy have valuable role in the treatment of AECOPD patients with mild hypoxemia and significantly improves in Arterial oxygen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current experiment is designed to evaluate the effect of different aquafeeds (farm-made versus commercial) on growth, body composition, oxidative capacity, and fatty acid profile in the semi-intensive composite culture system. For this, 1,100 fingerlings/acre having initial body weight and length, Labeo rohita (61.34 g, 171 mm), Catla catla (71.45 g, 181 mm), and Cyprinus carpio (30.80 g, 91 mm) were randomly distributed to 16 ponds and randomly fed on eight different diets (n = 2 pond/diet) in a completely randomized research design. Aquafeed were farm-based diets (D1–D2) and commercial aquafeed (D3–D8). The farm-made diets contained various crude protein levels of maize gluten (24.9%) and rice polish (7.3%), whereas commercial diets were procured from commercial feed plants (AMG, Supreme, Aqua, Star Floating, Hi-Pro, and Punjab feed). The growth performance of carps (L. rohita and C. catla) was significantly improved (p < 0.05) by feeding D3 as compared to other diets. Similarly, white blood cell concentration was greater (p < 0.05) in all species fed by D3 than in those fed on D7, D8, D5, D6, D1, and D2 fed groups, respectively. Alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and alanine phosphatase activities were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the D3-fed L. rohita, C. catla, and C. carpio compared with those fed on the rest of the treatments. The activities of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase were also higher (p < 0.05) for the D3 fed L. rohita, C. catla, and C. carpio than those fed on the rest diets. The groups fed on D3 and D4 had greater (p < 0.05) concentrations of myristic (14), palmitic acid (16), and stearic (18) acids than those fed on the rest of the commercial diets. However, meat chemical composition was similar (p > 0.05) across the treatments. These results also prove that the increase in the dietary protein level and lipid content can improve the fish's body's crude protein and fat levels. Feeding D3 improved the production performance, oxidative status, and fatty acid profile in composite major carps culture systems. Thus, based on growth, survival, and body composition, it is concluded that D3 and D4 may be recommended for a commercial culture of major carps. Dietary treatments had no significant impact (p > 0.05) on water's physical–chemical properties. Calcium content and alkalinity varied (p < 0.05), with D5 showing the lowest calcium and the highest alkalinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptive EWMA (AEWMA) control charts have gained remarkable recognition by monitoring productions over a wide range of shifts. The adaptation of computational statistic as per system shift is the main aspect behind the proficiency of these charts. In this paper, a function-based AEWMA multivariate control chart is suggested to monitor the stability of the variance–covariance matrix for normally distributed process control. Our approach involves utilizing an unbiased estimator applying the EWMA statistic to estimate the process shift in real-time and adapt the smoothing or weighting constant using a suggested continuous function. Preferably, the Monte Carlo simulation method is utilized to determine the characteristics of the suggested AEWMA chart in terms of proficient detection of process shifts. The underlying computed results are compared with existing EWMA and existing AEWMA charts and proved to outperform in providing quick detection for different sizes of shifts. To illustrate its real-life application, the authors employed the concept in the bimetal thermostat industry dataset. The proposed research contributes to statistical process control and provides a practical tool for the solution while monitoring covariance matrix changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent times, there has been a growing focus among researchers on memory-based control charts. The Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (EWMA) and Cumulative Sum (CUSUM) charts and the adaptive control charting approaches got the attention. Control charts are commonly employed to oversee processes, assuming the monitored variable follows a normal distribution. However, it's worth noting that this assumption does not hold true in many real-world situations. The use of the algebraic expression for normalization, which can be used for all kinds of skewed distributions with a closed-form distribution function, using the proposed continuous function to adapt a smoothing constant, motivates this study. In the present manuscript, we design an EWMA statistic-based adaptive control chart to monitor the irregular variations in the mean of two parametric Weibull distribution and use Hasting approximation for normalization. The adaptive control charts are used to update the smoothing constant according to the estimated shift. Here we use the proposed continuous function to adapt the smoothing constant. The average run length and standard deviation of run length are calculated under different parameter settings. The effectiveness of the proposed chart is argued in terms of ARLs over the considered EWMA chart through Monte-Carlo (MC) simulation method. The proposed chart is examined, followed by a real data set to demonstrate the design and application procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tillering phase of wheat (Triticum aestivum) crops is extremely susceptible to drought. We explored the potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in protecting wheat genotypes from drought injury during this sensitive stage. After treating with AgNPs (60 ppm), the plants were submitted to different water levels; i.e. 100% field capacity (FC), 75% FC (mild drought), 50% FC (moderate drought) and 25% FC (severe drought) from 15 to 41 days after sowing (tillering phase). Leaf physiological data were collected at stress termination, while yield attributes were recorded at crop maturity. We found that increasing drought intensity significantly impaired leaf physiology and grain yield of both studied genotypes. Compared with control, moderately and severely drought-stressed plants produced 25% and 45% lesser grain yield per spike, respectively (averaged across genotypes and years of study). Likewise, moderate and severe drought reduced photosynthesis by 49% and 76%, respectively, compared with control. In contrast, AgNPs significantly restored leaf physiological functioning and grain yield formation at maturity. For example, under moderate and severe drought, AgNPs-treated plants produced 22% and 17% more grains per plant, respectively, than their respective water-treated plants. Our study suggests that exogenous AgNPs can protect wheat crops from drought during early development stages. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) crops suffer significant grain yield losses when water supplies are affected during the early developmental phases. This study shows varying levels of drought stress impaired carbon assimilation, tiller formation and final grain yield of wheat genotypes. In contrast, exogenously applied silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) restored plant growth and grain yield formation, suggesting their potential to protect wheat crops from drought-induced injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adaptive MEWMA (AMEWMA) charts have been broadly perceived as an effective process monitoring instrument due to the efficient detection of the mean shifts of diverse sizes. This study proposes an AMEWMA control chart to observe the irregular variations in the mean vector of the process which follows the multivariate normal distribution. The idea is to assess the mean shift by using an unbiased estimator and after that adapt the smoothing constant of plotting EWMA statistic through a continuous function. As an evaluation tool, the run-length profiles are computed by using the Monte Carlo simulation method. The proposed AMEWMA chart is proved to be efficient in shift detection as compared to the MEWMA and existing AMEWMA charts. The application of the proposed chart is shown by utilizing a real-life dataset from a case study of process capability for turning aluminum pins where six quality characteristics are to be observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present an algorithm for computing analytical solutions of linear fuzzy advection-diffusion equations and one-dimensional fuzzy heat equations involving an external source. The fuzzy problems can be solved by using the natural transform and Adomian decomposition method. The results obtained through the natural Adomian decomposition method are calculated in a series form that converges rapidly to the exact solution. To enhance the practicality of our work, we provide examples to illustrate our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptive EWMA (AEWMA) control charts have gained remarkable recognition by monitoring productions over a wide range of shifts. The adaptation of computational statistic as per system shift is the main aspect behind the proficiency of these charts. In this paper, a function-based AEWMA multivariate control chart is suggested to monitor the stability of the variance–covariance matrix for normally distributed process control. Our approach involves utilizing an unbiased estimator applying the EWMA statistic to estimate the process shift in real-time and adapt the smoothing or weighting constant using a suggested continuous function. Preferably, the Monte Carlo simulation method is utilized to determine the characteristics of the suggested AEWMA chart in terms of proficient detection of process shifts. The underlying computed results are compared with existing EWMA and existing AEWMA charts and proved to outperform in providing quick detection for different sizes of shifts. To illustrate its real-life application, the authors employed the concept in the bimetal thermostat industry dataset. The proposed research contributes to statistical process control and provides a practical tool for the solution while monitoring covariance matrix changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: Urolithiasis remains a predominant health challenge, especially in regions like Pakistan where the prevalence of ureteric stones is substantial. With advancements in endourological stone management, the debate over the most effective therapeutic modality for proximal ureteric stones persists. This study aimed to provide insights by comparing the efficacy of Ureterorenoscopy (URS) and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) in managing these stones. METHODOLOGY: This controlled and experimental study spanned six months in 2022 at Karachi's Sindh Hospital of Urology and Transplantation. Total 60 participants, each diagnosed with a single IVU-detected radio-opaque proximal ureter stone, were enrolled. Random allocation was employed, assigning 30 patients to the URS group and 30 to the ESWL group. Follow-ups were conducted using x-ray KUB after three weeks, and data compilation utilized a computerized, pre-structured proforma. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 27.58 years, with a majority being male. URS demonstrated remarkable efficacy, particularly in the age group of 21-30, where it showed a 100% success rate compared to ESWL's 44.4% (p=0.001). In females with stone sizes between 10-12mm, URS maintained a 100% efficacy, outperforming ESWL, which had a 44.4% efficacy (p=0.0005). Hospital stay duration also influenced outcomes: for stays ≤3 days, URS exhibited a 91.3% efficacy, surpassing ESWL's 68.4% (p=0.011). CONCLUSION: URS consistently exhibited superior efficacy in managing proximal ureteric stones across varied demographics and clinical parameters. This research substantiates URS as a more effective therapeutic option compared to ESWL for certain patient cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploitation of food attractants for tephritid fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae), is the key element widely used for pest management. Population dynamics and the relative attractiveness of five commercially available chemicals in different concentrations were studied for the suppression of both sexes of Bactrocera species in mango orchards. The fruit flies, Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) and Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) exhibited maximum reduced population intensity from August to February and an increased population from March to July. The peak population of adult flies emerged in June depending on the host fruit maturity and meteorological influences. Observable differences in attractiveness between the tested products were confirmed at the experimental site of host institute. Resultantly, the attractions of female and male fruit flies of both species in Ammonium acetate, Trimethyl amine and Putrecine mixture were significantly more efficient than the male populations. Both male and female sexes exhibited an enhanced response to Torula yeast and Boric acid with the rise in their concentrations. Expressively, higher flies were collected in a combination of Torula yeast and Boric acid with 7:3 ratio. Concludingly, both Bactrocera species constantly revealed a substantial positive response to the odor of proteinaceous food attractants for their management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present the use of a unique and common fixed point for a pair of mappings that satisfy certain rational-type inequalities in complex-valued b-metric spaces. We also provide applications related to authenticity concerns in integral equations. Our results combine well-known contractions, such as the Ćirić contraction and almost contractions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we establish unique and common fixed point results in the context of a complete complex-valued b-metric space using rational-type inequalities. The presented work generalizes some well-known results from the existing literature. Furthermore, to ensure the validity of the findings, we have included some examples and a section on the existence of solutions for the systems of Volterra–Hammerstein integral equations and Urysohn integral equations, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, the mathematical model of COVID‐19 is considered with eight different classes under the fractional‐order derivative in Caputo sense. A couple of results regarding the existence and uniqueness of the solution for the proposed model is presented. Furthermore, the fractional‐order Taylor's method is used for the approximation of the solution of the concerned problem. Finally, we simulate the results for 50 days with the help of some available data for fractional differential order to display the excellency of the proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The memory‐based control charts (CCs) such as exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) and Cumulative sum (CUSUM) are good for quick detection of small or moderate shifts in the process mean. This study proposes a memory‐based CC to monitor the mean of a normally distributed process. The idea is to estimate the mean shift using an estimator based on an EWMA statistic and after that determine the smoothing constant of plotting EWMA statistics through the proposed continuous function. The performance of the proposed adaptive EWMA (AEWMA) chart is focused on utilizing extensive Monte Carlo simulations method with various shifts in the process mean. Taking into account the run‐length (RL) profiles, as an evaluation tool, the proposed chart is efficient as compared to the competitor charts. The demonstration of the proposed chart is presented by using a real dataset from the manufacturing process of substrates where the quality characteristic is the resistance of flow width. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel surface acidity modulation strategy allows us to obtain modified nanoclay with specific peroxidase (POD)-like catalytic activity. Fe3+ exchange could increase the surface acidity of modified montmorillonite (MMT), resulting in a significant enhancement of its POD-like activity. We proposed that the POD-like catalytic reaction followed the electron transfer pathway and ping-pong mechanism. Correspondingly the constructed colorimetric sensor for H2O2 exhibited high sensitivity and specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the seasonal prevalence and biological parameters of mosquito Aedes albopictus (Skuse) are indispensable for population estimates, efficient vector control and dengue prevention tactics. The sampling of Ae. albopictus was completed through the collection of eggs, larvae, pupae and adults throughout the study seasons by use of nets and ovitraps at least once a week. Occurrence of Ae. albopictus was distinguished heterogeneously and populations were observed maximum in October post-monsoon season. The populations increased progressively from January-May and sharply deteriorated in June-July and September-November months revealing the highest breeding. However, the lowest density was observed during December- February. Growth of Ae. albopictus evaluated under standardized laboratory conditions with the provision of Balb/C mice as blood meal to adult mosquitoes, exhibited eggs hatching, and first, second, third and fourth instar larvae development in 3, 1.3, 1.2, 1.7 and 2.8 days, respectively. Nevertheless, pupation development, adult emergence, total life duration from egg hatching to adult emergence, male and female life spans persisted for 7, 3, 20, 25 and 30 days, respectively. Aedes albopictus accounted for 1% density of other mosquito genera collected (Culex and Anopheles), while, Aedes aegypti (L) was 3% abundant and indicated that both Aedes species had coexistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: The most common cause of low back pain is disc prolapse. Disc prolapse occurs in both gender, but females are more prone to disc degenerative changes. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between clinical findings and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of lumbar disc prolapse patients. METHODOLOGY: This study recruited 32 participants of either gender, between the ages of 19 to 65, from the Radiology department of Shalamar Hospital. This study was carried out in six months with follow-up. Only diagnosed patients with lumbar disc prolapse on MRI were recruited. Numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) was used to identify the intensity of pain. History and neurological examinations were done in all diagnosed patients. All the findings of MRI were correlated with the clinical findings at different levels of lumbar vertebrae using Pearson correlation. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant positive correlation of MRI findings with clinical findings in the presence of nerve root compression at the L1-L2 level of lumbar vertebrae. All abnormal findings on MRI did not correlate with clinical findings. There was a significant positive (p-value >0.05) correlation between clinical features (sensations, power and reflexes) and MRI findings at L1, L2, right L3 myotomes and L2 dermatome only. CONCLUSION: There was a no correlation between MRI findings and clinical findings of patients with lumbar disc prolapse except L2 and L3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the validity of Dakar scoring system in predicting the outcome of tetanus in children of post neonatal age. Materials and Methods: A prospective single center study conducted at ICU (Intensive Care Unit) of The Children's Hospital Lahore in 131 children with diagnosis of tetanus from January 2020 to June 2021 by analyzing demographic and clinical parameters. Results: Mean age of children was 8.11 ± 3.45 years with male predominance 91(69.5%). Major proportion of children was in range of 5-10 years comprising 65(50%). Period of onset of spasm was < 2 days in 92(70%) that correlate well with shorter incubation period (p-value <0.001). Mean duration of ICU stay was (18.81 ± 11.73) days. Only 14(10.7%) received three doses of vaccination but no one received booster dose. In majority of patients trauma due to road traffic accident 86(65.6%) was the predisposing factor followed by ear discharge 31(23.7%) and other causes 14(10.7%). Out of 131 patients 104(79.3%) received mechanical ventilation because of disease severity. Regarding outcome mild cases 2(1.5%), moderate 61(46.6%) and severe were 68(51.9%) according to Dakar scoring system and out of these severe cases 18(13.7%) expired (p-value < 0.001). However, 53(40.4%) discharged, 50(38.1%) shifted out to other wards after stabilization and 10(7.6%) left against medical advice. (pvalue 0.001). Conclusion: Dakar scoring system correlates well with disease severity and should be adopted to aid clinical triage and management as with effective and appropriate treatment patients can have good prognosis. However, preventive aspects should be emphasized regarding booster dose of tetanus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this paper is to extend the concept of complex-valued fuzzy metric space to complex-valued fuzzy b -metric spaces and to discuss various existence results for fixed points to ensure their existence and uniqueness. To demonstrate the viability of the proposed strategies, a nontrivial example is used. Finally, applications to integral equations and initial value problems in mechanical engineering are discussed to demonstrate the superiority of the obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton leaf curl Multan virus (CLCuMuV), a begomovirus belonging to Family Geminiviridae, cause infection in cotton and many other crops. Cotton leaf curl Multan alphasatellite, associated with helper virus, is maintained and involved in enhancement of disease progression. The only gene present on Cotton leaf curl Multan alphasatellite (CLCuMuA) encodes a replication-associated protein named as Alpha-Rep, having a role in RNA silencing suppression. In present study, sequence analysis of Alpha-Rep protein of CLCuMuA was performed along with docking and interaction of the protein with plant flavonoids. As the three dimensional structure of Alpha-Rep protein was unknown, 3D structure was modeled through homology modeling. Best model was selected out of 10-modeled 3D structures and used in docking experiments. A database of 250 plant flavonoids was prepared. Plant flavonoids have anti-viral effect against viruses so these flavonoids are used as ligand in docking analysis against Alpha-Rep 3D protein structure. The interaction analysis of Alpha-Rep protein with flavonoids was also performed. The docked flavonoids showed bonding within active site of Alpha-Rep protein. The sequence analysis showed that Alpha-Rep is a positively charged protein. In present study, after docking, top ten flavonoids were selected as inhibitors of Alpha Rep protein on the basis of docking score. The interaction analysis also showed bonds formed between Alpha-Rep and flavonoids. All these analyses may help to develop resistance against cotton leaf curl disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High cadmium (Cd) concentration in soils is becoming a severe threat to environment. It deteriorates plants growth, yield, and quality of food. Although the use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), biochar and compost have been reported environment-friendly amendments for decreasing Cd stress in crop plants, but the impacts of their simultaneous co-application has not been well documented. Thus, current study was carried out to investigate the combined role of cadmium tolerant rhizobacteria, compost and biochar on the growth and Cd uptake in tomato under cadmium stress. Cd tolerant plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) were isolated from the rhizosphere of tomato grown on soil irrigated with industrial wastewater (effluents). Based on growth promotion traits and cadmium tolerance, four strains (J62, J156, J159, J165) were selected for conducting trial in growth chamber. Cadmium salt (CdCl2) and organic amendments were applied before transplanting of tomato seedlings and were inoculated with Cd tolerant rhizobacteria. After 4 weeks, plants were harvested for determination of Cd concentration and other parameters of plant. Results showed that cadmium caused reduction in all growth and physiological parameters of tomato. Sole and combined application of Cd tolerant PGPRs and organic amendments increased the growth of tomato and suppressed Cd uptake in tomato. But their interaction was more prominent as compared to sole application of each PGPRs and organic amendments. It was concluded that combined application of PGPR with organic amendments has a greater potential to suppress Cd uptake and improvement in growth of tomato under Cd stress, compared to the alone application of PGPR and organic amendments. Findings will be communicated to policy maker and extension worker for wide field application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To correlate and compare anterior and posterior corneal surface parameters like Kflat, Ksteep, Kavg, R1, R2, Ravg and astigmatism in healthy eyes. Study Design: Descriptive correlational study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted At Mayo Hospital, Lahore from June 2020 to Dec. 2020. Methods: This study included 176 subjects (86 males and 90 females) with mean age of 28.06 ± 9.68 and 28.13 ± 8.24 respectively. The data was collected through non-random convenient sampling technique by self-made proforma after taking patients' consent. Anterior and posterior corneal parameters (Kflat, Ksteep, Kavg, R1, R2, Ravg and astigmatism) were measured with GALILEI G4. Pearson correlation test was used for correlation and independent sample t-test/Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparing means of anterior and posterior corneal parameters. Data was entered and analyzed in SPSS-21. Results: Mean of anterior and posterior corneal curvatures was 44.21 ± 1.01 D and -6.22 ± 0.19 D [p < 0.001], Kflat was 43.76 ± 0.99 D and -6.08 ± 0.19 D [p < 0.001] and Ksteep was 44.66 ± 1.08 D, -6.34 ± 0.21 D, respectively [p < 0.001]. The anterior and posterior corneal curvature Ravg was 7.63 ± 0.17 mm, 6.44 ± 0.200 mm [p < 0.001], mean R1 was 7.71 ± 0.17 mm, 6.58 ± 0.21 mm, [p < 0.001] and mean R2 was 7.56 ± 0.18 mm, 6.31 ± 0.21 mm, respectively [p < 0.001]. Anterior posterior corneal astigmatism was 0.90 ± 0.55 D and -0.25 ± 0.11 D, respectively [p < 0.001]. Anterior corneal parameters also show strong correlation with posterior corneal parameters. Conclusion: There is significant difference between corneal parameters of anterior and posterior surface. Strong correlation was also found in anterior and posterior corneal parameters except corneal astigmatism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High temperature stress at reproductive stages of cotton crop severely affects the yield and quality of cotton crop under changing climatic conditions. To alleviate the adverse effects of high temperature stress on cotton crop, the regulatory effects of potassium (K), zinc (Zn), and boron (B) were assessed by applying different temperature regimes at three reproductive stages of cotton crop under field and glass house conditions. Cotton plants were subjected to low (32/20 °C ± 2), medium (38/24 °C ± 2), and high (45/30 °C ± 2) temperatures under glasshouse, but sown at specific dates in field to provide different temperatures at three reproductive stages. High-temperature stress at squaring, flowering and boll formation stages in both field studies increased relative cell injury (RCI), total soluble proteins (TSP), reactive oxygen species and reduced fiber yield attributes i.e. total number of bolls per plant (TNBPP), number of sympodial branches per plant (NSBPP) and quality traits. For example, RCI, TNBPP and fiber fineness were reduced by 73%, 42% and 29%, respectively under supra thermal regime (SupTR) of glass house study over the optimal thermal regime (OpTR). Foliar application of K and Zn followed by B increased TSP, RWC, TNBPP, NSBPP, fiber fineness, fiber length and fiber strength. Further, foliar spray of K and Zn followed by B also reduced H2 O2 under SupTR and SubTR over the OpTR. The findings of the present study clearly demonstrate that foliar spray of Zn, K and B alleviated adverse effects of high temperature stress at squaring, flowering and boll formation stages and increased seed cotton yield and quality of cotton crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease that is mainly spread by Aedes aegypti. It is prevalent on five continents, predominantly in tropical and sub-tropical zones across the world. Wolbachia bacteria have been extensively used in vector control strategies worldwide. The focus of the current study was to obtain a natural population of Ae. aegypti harbouring Wolbachia and to determine the impact of this bacteria on the new host in a semi-field environment. Methods: Wolbachia-infected Aedes albopictus was collected from the city of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, and Wolbachia were successfully introduced into laboratory-reared Ae. aegypti via embryonic microinjection. The stable vertical transmission of wAlbB in the host population was observed for eight generations, and the impact of Wolbachia on the general fitness of the host was evaluated in semi-field conditions. Results: In the laboratory and semi-field experiments, wAlbB Wolbachia presented a strong cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) effect, evidenced as zero egg hatching, in crosses between Wolbachia-infected males and wild (uninfected) females of Ae. aegypti. Wolbachia infection had no noticeable impact on the general fitness (P > 0.05), fecundity, body size (females and males) and mating competitiveness of the new host, Ae. aegypti. However, there was a significant decrease in female fertility (egg hatch) (P < 0.001). In addition, under starvation conditions, there was a remarkable decrease (P < 0.0001) in the life span of Wolbachia-infected females compared to uninfected females (4 vs. > 5 days, respectively). Conclusions: Wolbachia strain wAlbB has a great potential to control the dengue vector in Ae. aegypti populations by producing 100% CI with a limited burden on its host in natural field conditions. This strain can be used as a biological tool against vector-borne diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The systems of sensing technology along with machine learning techniques provide a robust solution in a smart home due to which health monitoring, elderly care, and independent living take advantage. This study addresses the overlapping problem in activities performed by the smart home resident and improves the recognition performance of overlapping activities. The overlapping problem occurs due to less interclass variations (i.e., similar sensors used in more than one activity and the same location of performed activities). The proposed approach overlapping activity recognition using cluster-based classification (OAR-CbC) that makes a generic model for this problem is to use a soft partitioning technique to separate the homogeneous activities from nonhomogeneous activities on a coarse-grained level. Then, the activities within each cluster are balanced and the classifier is trained to correctly recognize the activities within each cluster independently on a fine-grained level. We examine four partitioning and classification techniques with the same hierarchy for a fair comparison. The OAR-CbC evaluates on smart home datasets Aruba and Milan using threefold and leave-one-day-out cross-validation. We used evaluation metrics: precision, recall, F score, accuracy, and confusion matrices to ensure the model's reliability. The OAR-CbC shows promising results on both datasets, notably boosting the recognition rate of all overlapping activities more than the state-of-the-art studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex Urysohn integral equations and complex Fredholm integral equation of the second kind have intensified the attention of appreciable researchers to their solution due to their comprehensive applications. This study is devoted to the existence and uniqueness of solution to these integral equations in the setting of complete complex double controlled metric spaces via fixed point theory. For this motive, a fixed point result together with a numerical example for the convergence behavior of operator to the fixed point is analyzed in the context of the quoted metric spaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibacterial and cyto-compatible tricomponent composite electrospun nanofibers comprised of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), copper II oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs), and Momordica charantia (bitter gourd, MC) extract were examined for their potential application as an effective wound dressing. Metallic nanoparticles have a wide range of applications in biomedical engineering because of their excellent antibacterial properties; however, metallic NPs have some toxic effects as well. The green synthesis of nanoparticles is undergoing development with the goal of avoiding toxicity. The aim of adding Momordica charantia extract was to reduce the toxic effects of copper oxide nanoparticles as well as to impart antioxidant properties to electrospun nanofibers. Weight ratios of PVA and MC extract were kept constant while the concentration of copper oxide was optimized to obtain good antibacterial properties with reduced toxicity. Samples were characterized for their morphological properties, chemical interactions, crystalline structures, elemental analyses, antibacterial activity, cell adhesion, and toxicity. All samples were found to have uniform morphology without any bead formation, while an increase in diameters was observed as the CuO concentration was increased in nanofibers. All samples exhibited antibacterial properties; however, the sample with CuO concentration of 0.6% exhibited better antibacterial activity. It was also observed that nanofibrous mats exhibited excellent cytocompatibility with fibroblast (NIH3T3) cells. The mechanical properties of nanofibers were slightly improved due to the addition of nanoparticles. By considering the excellent results of nanofibrous mats, they can therefore be recommended for wound dressing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: Control of posture and balance is vital in mobility. Board exercise provides information about the motor strategies associated with muscle activation patterns that result when a person is standing on a wobble board surface that unexpectedly translates or tilts, which stimulates proprioception on the ankle. METHODOLOGY: This study recruited 37 Undergraduate medical students of Allied health sciences (including males and females) of age between 17 to 25 years, conducted at skill lab of Shalamar Institute of Health Sciences. It is a Pre-test, Posttest Quasi-Experimental study in which balance was assessed by performing SEBT while maintaining single-limb stance. After 2 weeks of training, a dynamic balance was reassessed using Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT). RESULTS: A total of 37 patients are included in this study with the age of 22.0±1.65 years and BMI 20.9±3.02 are considered. The study includes 15 male and 22 female patients. This study shows significant differences in Pre-SEBT and Post-SEBT values of legs as p-value <0.05. CONCLUSION: There were significant differences in Pre-exercising and Post-exercising SEBT. Study shows that wobble board-based rehabilitation training has a positive impact on improving balance of participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We established an existence and uniqueness theorem for contractive mapping in fuzzy HT ht -metric space. Moreover, it can be particularized to complete metric spaces to obtain an HT ht -tupled Brinde-Borcut type coincidence/fixed point result in a nonfuzzy domain. Moreover, an existence and uniqueness theorem for mappings satisfying certain contractive conditions in fuzzy HT ht -metric space has been proved. 1999; 30, 419-423 30 Berinde V., Borcut M. Tripled fixed point theorems for contractive type mappings in partially ordered metric spaces. [Extracted from the article]

Clay minerals are essential components of soil systems and understanding their role in soil structure and function is critical for soil environmental quality management and sustainable agricultural development. An in-depth study of clay minerals and the development of related materials is essential for a complete understanding and effective management of soil systems. This review is a detailed compilation of relevant studies over the past decade in this area, focusing on an overview of clay minerals and their modified materials and their regulation of soil structure and function. We focus on the direct influence of clay minerals on the physical, chemical and biological properties of soils, such as soil structure, soil fertility, plant growth, soil microbial activity and soil carbon sequestration. Finally, we concluded by summarizing the existing issues with clay mineral materials in soil improvement and by outlining potential future development trends and strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates consumer repurchase behavior and purchases regret in the context of a Steadily Increasing Discount (SID) strategy. A quantitative research approach based on a full‐scaled administrative survey is adopted in the framework of the regret theory. Mall intercept technique is used to collect the cross‐sectional data from respondents. To establish the proposed relational paths, structural equation modeling is applied. The findings of the study suggest that confirmation, price consciousness, and alternative attractiveness have a substantially negative impact on repurchase intention whereas the positive impact on purchase regret is also evident. Furthermore, purchase regret harms repurchase intentions. Moreover, the findings have robust policy implications in the context of corporations offering SID after the economic crisis in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the mathematical modeling of five different classes for coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is considered using the fractional arbitrary order derivative in Atangana–Baleanu sense. We use nonlinear analysis for the existence theory of the solution for the suggested model. Additionally, the modified Adam–Bashforth method is used for the numerical approximation of the assumed model. Finally, we simulate the results for 100 days with the help of data from the literature to display the excellency of the suggested model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structural health monitoring (SHM) systems have been increasingly employed to continually assess the current state of bridges. However, the vast amounts of sensor data generated by SHM systems, along with constantly changing environmental and operational conditions, make structural damage assessment a computationally demanding and challenging task. Traditional data-driven approaches primarily utilise machine learning methods for pattern recognition and feature extraction to address this issue. This paper introduces a methodology for assessing bridge conditions using a probabilistic temporal autoencoder (PTAE). The proposed approach effectively extracts features and captures temporal relationships in multi-sensor data collected only during train crossings. By calculating the reconstruction loss and KL divergence-based of damage features, the methodology enables the identification of potential damage of a monitored bridge. An Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (EWMA) filter and a control chart-based threshold mechanism are applied to further refine the damage assessment process, facilitating the distinction between healthy and progressively deteriorating damage cases. The proposed method is adaptable to various monitoring scenarios and sensor configurations, and robust to varying operational and environmental conditions. The effectiveness of the methodology is assessed using numerically generated data and validated with real-world data from the KW51 bridge. The results demonstrate that the proposed method can detect damage with a limited number of sensors, making it a valuable approach to enhance bridge safety. • PTAE-based method processes multi-sensor SHM data for accurate damage assessment under varying conditions. • Reconstruction loss and KL divergence-based features enable potential bridge damage detection during train crossings. • EWMA filter and control chart threshold refines assessment, differentiating healthy and deteriorating cases. • Adaptable, robust methodology suits various monitoring scenarios and sensor configurations, enhancing bridge safety. • The method's effectiveness is validated through numerical and real-world KW51 bridge data, highlighting its practical applicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the results of LASIK versus Trans Epithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy (T-PRK) in correcting astigmatic refractive error. Study Design: Quasi experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Lahore Medicare Hospital from January to October 2018. Methods: One hundred and twenty six eyes of 63 patients, age 18 to 35 years, either gender, presenting with astigmatism were enrolled in this study. Myopes with spherical equivalent (SE) = -13.0 diopter sphere (DS), hyperopes with SE = +5.0 DS and astigmatism = 1.5 D with visual acuity better or equal to 0.3 LogMAR were included. Astigmatic eyes with < 1.5D and with any other ocular pathology were excluded. Refractive status was assessed by Canon Autorefractor and Heine Retinoscope. Average reading of both methods was taken. Patients were divided into two groups (31: LASIK; 32: trans-PRK) by spin of a coin method. Refractive surgery was done in both groups. Data was analyzed by SPSS 20. Normality of quantitative data was checked by Shapiro Wilk test. Mann Whitney-U test was used for non-parametric data. P-value = 0.05 was taken as significant. Results: Mean age of the patients was 25.83 ± 3.09 years. The difference in residual sphere, amount of cylinder, axis of cylinder and CCT (central corneal thickness) after surgery in two groups was insignificant. P values were as follows; for sphere p = 0.85, amount of cylinder p = 0.22, axis of cylinder P = 0.46 and CCT p = 0.07. Conclusion: Both techniques are equally good in correcting astigmatism (p = 0.22). LASIK or T-PRK can be done alternatively in patients with astigmatism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multi‐cell network that uses orthogonal frequency division multiplexing access (OFDMA) is studied here. Unlike prior works, the proposed network consists of both (i) legacy data users that do not have energy harvesting capability and have a minimum data rate requirement and (ii) radio frequency (RF)‐energy harvesting devices with a minimum energy requirement. It studies sub‐band allocation to users and transmits power allocation at base stations. The authors formulate a mixed‐integer non‐linear program and also present two heuristics to assign sub‐band to base stations. Numerical results show that RF energy harvesting devices will not affect network capacity if legacy data users require a high data rate. In addition, the results obtained from the two proposed heuristics are ∼95% of the optimal solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the association between homocysteine serum levels and metabolic risk factors in adults of Karachi - Pakistan. Study type, settings & duration: This prospective study was carried out in peripheral out-patient department, primary care unit, affiliated with Baqai Institute of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Baqai Medical University, Karachi from November 2007 to June 2008. Methodology: Non-diabetic subjects were selected after taking informed consent. Subjects were advised to visit with at least 8 to 12 hours of fasting for oral glucose test. The anthropometry parameters were measured and blood tests for glucose levels, lipid profile, serum insulin, and homocysteine levels were done. Results: Of the 75 recruited subjects, 52% (n=39) were males and 48% (n=36) were females. Age (mean years) of the subjects was 44.26±10.98 and mean BMI kg/m2 was found 27.33±4.17. Fasting homocysteine, serum insulin levels, and HOMA found 15.6±6.52, 16.96±8.26, and 5.02±3.06, respectively. A significant association of elevated homocysteine level was found with BMI value p <0.04, male gender p <0.026, and smoking p <0.006. Insignificant correlation was seen between elevated homocysteine levels and age, fasting plasma glucose, hypertension, serum lipid parameters and waist circumference. Conclusion: Serum homocysteine level was significantly correlated with BMI, male gender, and smoking. Furthermore, an elevated homocysteine serum level was found in our study but not significantly associated with metabolic risk factors among population of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, common fixed-point theorems for self-mappings under different types of generalized contractions in the context of the cone b 2 -metric space over the Banach algebra are discussed. The existence results obtained strengthen the ones mentioned previously in the literature. An example and an application to the infinite system of integral equations are also presented to validate the main results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript, using the concept of multivalued contractions, some new Banach- and Caristi-type fixed point results are established in the context of metric spaces. For the reliability of the presented results, some examples and applications to Volterra integral type inclusion are also studied. The established results unify and generalize some existing results from the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Pulwama attack and Balakot Airstrike were two major issues that affected Pak India relations in 2019 and both countries indulged in these issues. The present study is conducted to examine Indian press propaganda against Pakistan on these selected incidents.The study aimed to analyze the nature of propaganda of the Indian press to highlight the selected issues.Two national Indian newspapers are selected to conduct this study, The Times of India and The Telegraph, from February 2019 to July 2019. Application of under Propaganda, Agenda and Framing theory, content analysis is used as a research methodology. The results showed that Indian media used black propaganda to influence their audience negatively and create hate among the people for Pakistan. Indian media and the Indian government always seek a chance to speak against Pakistan, showingIndia's abominable face and crooked government. India's Indian press and press misguided the Pulwama attack and Balakot Airstrike failed in hybrid warfare (Media War) against Pakistan. The government policies strongly affect the newspaper's policy and ultimately, it's creating hate against Pakistan among their public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To check inter observer reproducibility of axial ocular measurements i.e. central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), aqueous depth (AD), lens thickness (LT), anterior segment lens (ASL), vitreous length (VL) and axial length (AL) with non-contact HAAG-STRAIT biometer. Study Design: Comparative Reproducibility Analysis. Place and Duration of Study: College of ophthalmology and allied vision sciences (COAVS), Mayo Hospital, Lahore. Methods: This study included 66 healthy students (132 eyes). Data was collected through self-designed proforma by 2 operators independently. SPSS 21 was used for data analysis. Interclass correlation was applied for agreement between the two readings. Interclass coefficient (ICC) value greater than 0.7 was considered as excellent correlation. Results: The mean CCT, AD, ACD, LT, ASL, VL, and AL were 526.47 ± 35.72 µm and 526.47 ± 36.06 µm (ICC = 0.92); 2.93 ± 0.29 mm and 2.93 ± 0.29 mm (ICC = 0.81); 3.45 ± 0.30 mm and 3.46 ± 0.30 mm (ICC = 0.79); 3.58 ± 0.28 mm and 3.56 ± 0.22 mm (ICC = 0.76); 7.03 ± 0.30 mm and 7.02 ± 0.27 mm (ICC = 0.80); 16.56 ± 0.85 mm and 16.62 ± 0.81 mm (ICC = 0.72); and 23.59 ± 0.85 mm and 23.64 ± 0.87 mm (ICC: 0.76) of observer 1 and 2, respectively. Conclusion: Non-contact Biometer (HAAG-STRAIT) has high inter-observer reproducibility with strong interclass coefficient of greater than 0.72. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we prove a strong convergence of a sequence with some certain conditions to a common fixed point of a discrete semigroup of non-expansive and linear operators on a strictly convex Banach spaces. Further we generalized the result to a countable family of such discrete semigroups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The time patterns for using Facebook among youth are different. The daily and weekly time patterns can tell different usage patterns. There is a concern shown by scholars from communication psychology that though Facebook is one of the most popular social networking sites among youth, however, it can sometimes become problematic. To verify this argument carefully in academic scholarship, the current study contributes by researching the interaction effect of the daily and the weekly time patterns on the perceived problematic Facebook use. The university students (N = 1188) in Lahore, are selected through connivance sampling using traditional paper and pencil survey. The objectives of the study are to explain whether the time (in minutes and hours) spent daily and weekly on Facebook make any difference in the reported scores of Problematic Facebook Use (PFU) among university students in Lahore. The study utilizes the quantitative approach of the cross-sectional survey method and selects respondents by using the convenience sampling technique. The scales for measuring daily and weekly time patterns for Facebook use are adopted from Hussain and Saleem (2016). The scale for measuring PFU is adopted from Dhaha and Igale (2014). The two-way between-groups ANOVA shows that the daily time spent on Facebook make difference with a small effect (η²=.05) in the PFU scores, besides, the weekly time patterns show a significant difference (η²=.01) for the problematic Facebook use. Further, the Post Hoc comparisons show that there is a gradual increase in problematic Facebook use among university who use it for less time in a week to daily use. Those who use Facebook for less than half an hour have reported that Facebook is more problematic for them. The study has implications for students to check Facebook using habits after half an hour in a particular day by using a timer. The study has also implications for the mentorship roles of parents and teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, existence, uniqueness, and Hyers-Ulam stability for the solution of second-order fuzzy differential equations (FDEs) are studied. To deal a physical model, it is required to insure whether unique solution of the model exists. The natural transform has the speciality to converge to both Laplace and Sumudu transforms only by changing the variables. Therefore, this method plays the rule of checker on the Laplace and Sumudu transforms. We use natural transform to obtain the solution of the proposed FDEs. As applications of the established results, some nontrivial examples are provided to show the authenticity of the presented work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]