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In landscape ecology, it has become increasingly essential to understand the consequences of past, current, and future human land use patterns for biodiversity and ecosystem function. The most significant factor affecting biodiversity loss is land-use and land-cover change (LULCC). We examine here the impact of long-term changes in LULCC from 2000–2020 on the biodiversity of Marghazar valley in Swat District. Information was also gathered on the perceptions of the surrounding communities based on the flow of ecosystem services (ES), historical changes, and the causes of those changes. Satellite imagery data were used to map LULCC, identify possible causes, and assess the impact of LULCC on the population of partridges. In the last 20 years, forest area has reduced by 23 km2 (33%) and the seasonal water body has declined by 1.015 km2 (2.15%). There was a 38.5 km2 decrease in agricultural land. In contrast, the built-up area increased by 384%, resulting in a total growth of 26.3 km2 and an expansion of 41.1 km2 grassland. Deforestation, agricultural expansions, urbanization, economic considerations and changes in land tenure policy were identified to be the main drivers of LULCC. The primary impact of LULCC on partridges in the studied area are land degradation, population declines, habitat disruption, displacement of partridges by livestock and increasing human-wildlife conflicts. Despite ongoing human pressure, the Marghazar valley still provides extensive habitat for wildlife. Interventions may be needed to maintain biodiversity and ensure long-term ecological services in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 has had a significant influence on people's lives across the world. The viral genome has undergone numerous unanticipated changes that have given rise to new varieties, raising alarm on a global scale. Bioactive phytochemicals derived from nature and synthetic sources possess lot of potential as pathogenic virus inhibitors. The goal of the recent study is to report new inhibitors of Schiff bases of 1,3-dipheny urea derivatives against SARS COV-2 spike protein through in-vitro and in-silico approach. Total 14 compounds were evaluated, surprisingly, all the compounds showed strong inhibition with inhibitory values between 79.60% and 96.00% inhibition. Here, compounds 3a (96.00%), 3d (89.60%), 3e (84.30%), 3f (86.20%), 3g (88.30%), 3h (86.80%), 3k (82.10%), 3l (90.10%), 3m (93.49%), 3n (85.64%), and 3o (81.79%) exhibited high inhibitory potential against SARS COV-2 spike protein. While 3c also showed significant inhibitory potential with 79.60% inhibition. The molecular docking of these compounds revealed excellent fitting of molecules in the spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD) with good interactions with the key residues of RBD and docking scores ranging from − 4.73 to − 5.60 kcal/mol. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulation for 150 ns indicated a strong stability of a complex 3a:6MOJ. These findings obtained from the in-vitro and in-silico study reflect higher potency of the Schiff bases of 1,3-diphenyl urea derivatives. Furthermore, also highlight their medicinal importance for the treatment of SARS COV-2 infection. Therefore, these small molecules could be a possible drug candidate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) belongs to the Sirtuin protein family, which consists of NAD+-dependent lysine deacylase, involved in the regulation of various cellular activities. Dysregulation of SIRT3 activity has been linked to several types of cancer, including breast cancer. Because of its ability to stimulate adaptive metabolic pathways, it can aid in the survival and proliferation of breast cancer cells. Finding new chemical compounds targeted towards SIRT3 was the primary goal of the current investigation. Virtual screening of ~ 800 compounds using molecular docking techniques yielded 8 active hits with favorable binding affinities and poses. Docking studies verified that the final eight compounds formed stable contacts with the catalytic domain of SIRT3. Those compounds have good pharmacokinetic/dynamic properties and gastrointestinal absorption. Based on excellent pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, two compounds (MI-44 and MI-217) were subjected to MD simulation. Upon drug interaction, molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate mild alterations in the structure of proteins and stability. Binding free energy calculations revealed that compounds MI-44 (− 45.61 ± 0.064 kcal/mol) and MI-217 (− 41.65 ± 0.089 kcal/mol) showed the maximum energy, suggesting an intense preference for the SIRT3 catalytic site for attachment. The in-vitro MTT assay on breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231) and an apoptotic assay for these potential compounds (MI-44/MI-217) was also performed, with flow cytometry to determine the compound's ability to cause apoptosis in breast cancer cells. The percentage of apoptotic cells (including early and late apoptotic cells) increased from 1.94% in control to 79.37% for MI-44 and 85.37% for MI-217 at 15 μM. Apoptotic cell death was effectively induced by these two compounds in a flow cytometry assay indicating them as a good inhibitor of human SIRT3. Based on our findings, MI-44 and MI-217 merit additional investigation as possible breast cancer therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of genetic variability is indispensable for the development of high-yielding and nutritionally enriched soybean varieties. In this study, fifty-nine soybean genotypes (56 test entries and three standard checks) from different origins were characterized for eight qualitative and 20 quantitative traits. The experiment was laid out in a complete augmented block design for two consecutive seasons under natural rainfed conditions. Results revealed that among qualitative traits, flower colour was found to be most dynamic morphological marker trait for genotypic distribution. Mean square variances for twenty agro-morphological, seed yield and quality traits showed significant differences among tested genotypes for almost all studies traits. Non-hierarchical clustering classified entire set of germplasm into five groups, with the recognition of cluster IV for selection potential. Correlation analysis indicated that seed yield of soybean was positively associated with all yielding components, while a highly negative association was observed between seed quality traits such as protein content (%) and oil content (%). The multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) extracted five essential PCs, which explained 81.22% of the total accumulative variation. Moreover, PCA unveiled the most discriminatory traits as well as superior genotypes which participated intensely in phenotypic variability. Most diverse genotypes identified during study were Jhunghwang, K-D, 24,598, G-35, Brazil-3, 24,560, Ajmeri-1, NARC-2 and 24,608 for improved productivity and enhanced nutritional quality of soybean. The essential traits, including 100-seed weight, seed yield plant−1, protein content and oil content depicted influential effects in identifying these desired genotypes. Conclusively, the hybridization of divergent parents in cross-breeding programs may have successful chances to get transgressive segregants with higher seed yield potential along with improved nutritional quality for developing new soybean varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study is to reduce marijuana use among the general population. Because marijuana is an illegal narcotic with numerous negative health effects, it continues to pose a severe threat to public health in emerging nations. In this article, a modified mathematical model of the non-users, experimental users, recreational users, and addict's (NERA) model for marijuana consumption is established by incorporating a new compartment that represents the individuals who are being moved to jail by police intervention. The overall population of humans is divided into five main components: the non-smoker's compartment, experimental smoker's compartment, recreational smoker's compartment, addicted smoker's compartment, and prisoner's compartment. The novelty of this work is to modify the NERA model for marijuana consumption a nd validate the modified model. Furthermore, with the help of sensitivity analysis, control strategies for marijuana consumption in the population are addressed. The invariant region and the basic reproductive number (R0) are those parts that are needed for the validation of the proposed model. For the numerical simulation of the given model, the 4th-order Runge Kutta method will be used with the help of MATLAB to examine how the control strategies will play a role in marijuana consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Survey sampling has a wide range of applications in biomedical, meteorological, stock exchange, marketing, and agricultural research based on data collected through sample surveys or experimentation. The collected set of information may have a fuzzy nature, be indeterminate, and be summarized by a fuzzy number rather than a crisp value. The neutrosophic statistics, a generalization of fuzzy statistics and classical statistics, deals with the data that have some degree of indeterminacy, imprecision, and fuzziness. In this article, we introduce a fuzzy decision-making approach for deciding a sample size under a fuzzy measurement cost modeled by an intuitionistic fuzzy cost function. Our research introduces neutrosophic ratio-type estimators for estimating the population mean of the neutrosophic study variable Y N ∈ [ Y L , Y U ] utilizing all the indeterminate values of the neutrosophic auxiliary variable X N ∈ [ X L , X U ] rather than only the extreme values X L and X U . Three simulation studies are carried out to explain the proposed methods of parameter estimation, sample size determination, and efficiency comparison. The results reveal that the proposed neutrosophic class of estimators produces more accurate and precise estimates of the neutrosophic population mean than the existing neutrosophic estimators in simple random sampling, which is the ultimate goal of inferential statistics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the frequency of normal and abnormal handgrip strength in patients with chronic liver disease. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study has been conducted in the Department of Medicine Khyber Teaching Hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan. Data was collected over six months from October 2020 to April 2021 after the approval by the institutional ethical board. Each participant gave their informed consent before being included in the study. A total of 254 patients were included. Every patient was asked to hold the Hand Dynamometer in the dominant hand as per the set criteria. Three readings were taken with a resting period of ten seconds between each, and the highest reading in kilograms was considered final. Calliper (Lange®) was used to measure the thickness of the Triceps skin fold (TSF) and Adductor pollicis muscle (APMT). The anthropometric value of TSF and abdominal circumference (AC) was taken, and measurements were also made of the mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC). Results: Among 254 patients, the mean age was 48 ± 10.59 years while145 (57%) patients were male, while 109 (43%) were female. Moreover, 125 (49%) patients had normal handgrip strength (HGS), while 129 (51%) had abnormal handgrip strength. The mean APMT was 16.5 ± 3.4 mm, the mean MAMC 24.2 ± 3.7 cm, and the mean TSF was 15 ± 13.11 mm. Conclusion: Abnormal handgrip strength was reported in more than half of patients with chronic liver disease. HGS test is a convenient and cost-effective bedside tool to determine sarcopenia in chronic liver disease patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, traditional fluids are frequently being replaced by efficient heat transfer fluids showing physical and thermal stability. One such category of fluids is called nanofluids, in which solid nanoparticles (metals or their oxides, nitrides and so on) are suspended in a base fluid resulting in enhanced heat transfer characteristics. These nanofluids are increasingly used in low to medium temperature applications toward intensification of process and power plants by reducing the overall size and heat losses. However, as compared to a pure fluid, prediction of thermal and physical properties of nanofluids is a challenge due to unavailability of a general model. These thermal and hydraulic characteristics are strongly dependent upon multiple factor including particle size, particle volume concentration, particle composition, particle shape, temperature, base fluid material, pH and shear rate. Keeping these challenges in mind and availability of modeling tools, we first summarize and comment on popular correlations available to predict thermal and physical properties of nanofluids. Then, a general approach for carrying out reliable computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations is presented. The limitation of a general correlation of physical properties for input into CFD code can be overcome by use of machine learning (ML) tools such as artificial neural networks (ANN) taking advantage of the huge databank of physical properties of nanofluids. The use of ML to compliment CFD for accurate and reliable simulation of systems employing nanofluids as working fluids is highlighted at the end as potential emerging areas of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Critical heat flux (CHF) is an essential parameter that plays a significant role in ensuring the safety and economic efficiency of nuclear power facilities. It imposes design and operational restrictions on nuclear power plants due to safety concerns. Therefore, accurate prediction of CHF using a hybrid framework can assist researchers in optimizing system performance, mitigating risk of equipment failure, and enhancing safety measures. Despite the existence of numerous prediction methods, there remains a lack of agreement regarding the underlying mechanism that gives rise to CHF. Hence, developing a precise and reliable CHF model is a crucial and challenging task. In this study, we proposed a hybrid model based on an artificial neural network (ANN) to improve the prediction accuracy of CHF. Our model leverages the available knowledge from a lookup table (LUT) and then employs ANN to further reduce the gap between actual and predicted outcomes. To develop and assess the accuracy of our model, we compiled a dataset of around 5877 data points from various sources in the literature. This dataset encompasses a diverse range of operating parameters for two-phase flow in vertical tubes. The results of this study demonstrate that the proposed hybrid model performs better than standalone machine learning models such as ANN, random forest, support vector machine, and data-driven lookup tables, with a relative root-mean-square error (rRMSE) of only 9.3%. We also evaluated the performance of the proposed hybrid model using holdout and cross-validation techniques, which demonstrated its robustness. Moreover, the proposed approach offers valuable insights into the significance of various input parameters in predicting CHF. Our proposed system can be utilized as a real-time monitoring tool for predicting extreme conditions in nuclear reactors, ensuring their safe and efficient operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

National parks are considered assets of an area in conserving and preserving flora and fauna and recreational purposes, but these parks also provide valuable folk benefits for the local peoples. This study aimed to document the folk benefits obtained by local inhabitants from different indigenous angiosperms and their products in Sheikh Buddin National Park. Information from 250 respondents (240 male, 10 females) was gathered randomly about plants' medicinal and folk uses in the park. One hundred and sixteen plants species belonging to 99 genera and 50 families were recorded and identified with the help of available literature. Of these, monocots were represented by 17 species under 15 genera and 5 families, while dicots were represented by 99 species belonging to 84 genera and 45 families. The results reflect that 24% of plants were used as fodder, 29% fuel, 20% medicinal, 17% construction, and furniture, while 8% were used for ornamental purposes. The majority of the plant species were used as multipurpose. The most important medicinal plants were Caralluma edulis (Pamana), Withania ovata (Aspeghol), Pla-ntago ciliate (Aspeghol), Tribulus terrestris (Maklindey), and Fagonia indica (Spelaghzaie). Leaves and shoots were frequently utilized as remedies. We conclude from the study that angiosperms flora of the park can be used for different folk purposes and treating gastrointestinal, skin, and blood disorders ailments. In addition, we recommend the sustainable use of the flora to maintain the proper floristic composition in the studied site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

National parks are considered assets of an area in conserving and preserving flora and fauna and recreational purposes, but these parks also provide valuable folk benefits for the local peoples. This study aimed to document the folk benefits obtained by local inhabitants from different indigenous angiosperms and their products in Sheikh Buddin National Park. Information from 250 respondents (240 male, 10 females) was gathered randomly about plants' medicinal and folk uses in the park. One hundred and sixteen plants species belonging to 99 genera and 50 families were recorded and identified with the help of available literature. Of these, monocots were represented by 17 species under 15 genera and 5 families, while dicots were represented by 99 species belonging to 84 genera and 45 families. The results reflect that 24% of plants were used as fodder, 29% fuel, 20% medicinal, 17% construction, and furniture, while 8% were used for ornamental purposes. The majority of the plant species were used as multipurpose. The most important medicinal plants were Caralluma edulis (Pamana), Withania ovata (Aspeghol), Pla-ntago ciliate (Aspeghol), Tribulus terrestris (Maklindey), and Fagonia indica (Spelaghzaie). Leaves and shoots were frequently utilized as remedies. We conclude from the study that angiosperms flora of the park can be used for different folk purposes and treating gastrointestinal, skin, and blood disorders ailments. In addition, we recommend the sustainable use of the flora to maintain the proper floristic composition in the studied site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A comprehensive database of critical heat flux containing more than 15,000 experimental data points is generated. • Multiple machine learning (ML) algorithms are used to predict critical heat flux trained and tested on the generated database. • Artificial neural network (ANN) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) algorithms outperform other counterpart techniques. • Critical heat flux for vertical flow systems is found to be highly dependent upon Weber number and boiling number. The critical heat flux (CHF) associated with the departure from nucleate boiling (DNB) determines the design and safety aspects of two-phase flow boiling systems. Despite the availability of several predictive tools, within the thermal engineering community, the pursuit of an accurate and robust CHF model remains a significant challenge. In this unique study, we extracted a substantial database from literature to develop machine-learning (ML) models to predict CHF for vertical flows commonly employed in the process industry. The extensive database encompasses 15,006 experimental data points gathered from diverse sources covering wide range of geometric and operational ranges of D, L, P, G, h, and x. This database is then employed to develop five ML – based models, namely Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Adaptive Boosting (AdaBoost), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Random Forests (RF). The selection of optimal input features is conducted by exploring various combinations of both dimensional and dimensionless parameters to identify the most influencing inputs for CHF prediction. The models incorporating features D, L, P, G, h, x, L/D, ρ r , We, and BO achieve CHF predictions with Mean Absolute Errors (MAEs) of 8.85 % for the ANN model and 10.39 % for the XGBoost model. The optimized ML models outperformed even the highly reliable CHF correlations and lookup tables. The feature importance analysis of input parameters highlights strong dependence of CHF on dimensionless numbers such as Weber number and Boiling number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supersonic steam injection from underwater vehicles into surrounding bulk water exhibits the formation of coherent structures due to the interfacial interaction between the steam and water. The mixing between the two is a function of the rate of growth of shear layer. In present work, experimental study is conducted with minor contribution from the CFD, to highlight the phenomena associated to the high-pressure steam injection into a pool of water under the influence of periodic cavitation which occurs near the steam's nozzle exit with its opening being at right angle to the opening of the exit nozzle. PIV setup along with piezoelectric acoustic emission sensors as well as LM35 temperature sensors and pitot tubes were applied to characterize the growth of the shear layer as a function of periodic cavitation with a range of steam's operating pressure. Based on the normalized shear growth rate as well as the Strouhal number and the normalized pitot thickness, the effect of rising in the cavitation on the variations of the thickness of the shear layer was studied. It was observed that higher area under the influence of the shear layer was due to the domination of the coherent flow structures, which influenced improved mixing between the steam and water. Comparison of our data with the available shear growth rate in literature shows good agreement when compared as a function of Mach number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerical Simulations are performed, using Eulerian two fluid model (TFM) to investigate the effects of solid volume fraction and no-slip side walls on the settling particles. It is found that average settling velocity decreases with increasing volume fraction for both gas-solid (GS) and liquid-solid (LS) systems, in good agreement with the Richardson-Zaki 1 − ϕ n ${\left(1-\phi \right)}^{n}$ law. It was also noted that average velocity is independent of the boundary condition for both gas-solid (GS) and liquid-solid (LS) systems. The root mean square value of the solid volume fraction shows the increasing trend with volume fraction, caused by the many particle interactions. Furthermore, no-slip sidewalls were found to damp the velocity fluctuations quantitively, while following the well-known ϕ 1 / 2 ${\phi }^{1/2}$ scaling with volume fraction. Side walls were found to act as kinetic trap for the particles, damping the fluctuation near the walls and plateauing in the mid plane. These simulations showed that the GS system shows the higher solid fraction fluctuations that the LS system at the same Reynolds number, mainly because of the higher collision frequency (higher Stokes number) among the particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines how avifauna reacts to the loss of forest cover in Swat Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Birds play a key role in the ecosystem, but in disturbed areas their roles may be limited due to the changes of their natural habitats. We sampled birds in disturbed and undisturbed sites using a fixed radius point counting method. It was revealed that the species richness and abundance of bird species varied significantly between disturbed and undisturbed sites, and that this difference was related to the disturbance indices measured. The results showed that in total, 85 species of birds from 38 families were observed in the 16 sampling sites. Ardeidae (14 species, n = 178) had the greatest abundance and species richness. Twenty of the 85 locally abundant bird species (23.5%) responded significantly to the disturbance regime, resulting in changes in bird species composition. Five vegetation structure variables, including two that were substantially changed by disturbance, were found to be significantly correlated with bird species composition. All changes in bird species composition caused by disturbances are due to changes in vegetation structure. The loss of forest cover, on the other hand, has a negative effect on the diversity of frugivorous and particularly insectivorous species. Our study demonstrated the widespread effect of forest loss on bird communities in one of the most important hotspots for bird conservation and shows that many vulnerable species require extensive forest cover to persist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heat loads on electronic systems of an unmanned air vehicle are a significant problem. So enhancing heat transfer is a critical key to solve these thermal problems. This study is focused on increasing heat transfer rate in a crossflow heat exchanger by using nanofluids numerically. Effects of different Reynolds number of hot fluid (Re = 6000, 8000, 10000, 12000), different inlet velocity (Vair,inlet = 30, 45, 60, 90 m/s) of cooling fluid, temperature of cooling air at different altitude (Tair,inlet = 15, 10, 4, -17°C) and different types of nanofluids (Cu-H2O, CuO-H2O, TiO2-H2O, H2O) on heat transfer were studied numerically. Realizable k-e turbulence model of ANSYS FLUENT computational fluid dynamics code was used for numerical analysis. It was obtained that increasing Reynolds number from Re = 6000 to 12000 causes an increase of 44.65% on average Nusselt Number. Increasing inlet velocity of cooling air from 30 m/s to 90 m/s causes an increase of 6.96% on average Nusselt number. Increasing or decreasing air inlet temperature at different attitude does not cause any significant change on average Nusselt number. Using Cu-H2O nanofluid, which shows the best performance, causes an increase of 6.63% on average Nusselt number according H2O. Numerical results were also compared with experimental results at literature. It was obtained that numerical model can represent experimental results in a good level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field biology of Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar) was studied in Malakand division, which is an important range of its distribution in Pakistan. The abundance of the species at different altitudes was studied using both transect trails of various lengths and point counts at certain spots. The average monthly population density was estimated to be 1.448±0.466 birds/ha. The population density in August, September, and October 2020 was significantly (P<0.05) higher, as compared to the rest of the months. Chukar Partridge sightings were the lowest in December, with mean±SD = 0.996±0.147 birds/ha and the highest in October 2.333±0.202 birds/ hae in all the study sites. At each study site, maximum activity habitats were marked and selected for breeding ecology study. Data was collected on breeding time, nest site selection, nest size, incubation period, and hatching success. The breeding season in this species starts in February, with the peak months being March and April, when calls are frequently heard. The frequency of calls varied from 0.15 to 0.3 per minute. Throughout the breeding season, twelve nests were observed using binoculars and camera traps from a distance to avoid disturbance, wherever possible and without disrupting the species. Nesting sites were mostly on slopes under the eaves of Dodonea viscosa, Calotropis procera and Zizyphus oxyphylla. Dry leaves of Poa annua, Cynodon dactylon, Dichanthium annulatum, small twigs of bushes, and downy feathers were used as nesting materials. The average diameter of nest (n=12) was 25.43±3.4 (mean±SD) cm. Overall, the mean clutch size was 94.5±30.187 egg/nest with an incubation period of 22–24 days. The hatching success rate was 82% with 315 successfully hatched chicks, while the fledging rate was 83% (265 fledged out of 315 hatched in, n=42 nests). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we study the uniqueness and existence of the solution of a non-autonomous and nonsingular delay difference equation using the well-known principle of contraction from fixed point theory. Furthermore, we study the Hyers–Ulam stability of the given system on a bounded discrete interval and then on an unbounded interval. An example is also given at the end to illustrate the theoretical work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research article, we discuss the important class of impulsive evolution problem of fractional order subject to nonlocal Cauchy condition. We studied the aforesaid problem via the use of coincidence degree theory of topology. The respective results are devoted to existence theory of solution. To support our main work, we also give some test problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the nexus of regional integration, socioeconomic determinants and sustainable development (SD) by investigating the effect of health, humans and age structure on sustainable development, with the regional integration (RI) as the moderating variable. Socioeconomic determinants have an important role in sustainable development, while regional integration has fueled up the development process. The sample is based on 64 Belt and Road (BRI) countries from 2003–2018. Pair-wise correlation results indicate that human development, health expenditure and age structure showed a positive relationship with sustainable development. Two-step System-GMM direct effect outcomes are mixed and reveal that human development, health expenditure per capita, age structure, governance index and population size have a positive impact on sustainable development. On the other hand, e-government, government size, and globalization showed negative effects on SD. Apart from that, the moderating channel of regional integration (RI), interaction term with human development and health expenditure, showed a significant and positive impact on sustainable development. However, age structure interaction with regional integration showed a negative impact on SD. Other socio-economic factors, i.e., governance index and population contribute positively towards SD. It can be concluded that the dynamic nature of sustainable development is positive and the net present value is increasing. Therefore, BRI countries are on the sustainable path from 2003–2018, as suggested by economic and social welfare theory. The integration of BRI can be labeled as an entrance to successful sustainable development. However, weak e-government systems, globalization and government resources need to be utilized amicably in Belt and Road countries. Driscoll-Kraay standard-errors regression confirmed and validated the two-step System-GMM results. The findings of the current research have important policy implications for balanced and sustainable growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solid-state sintering route was employed for the production of (1-x)Bi 2 (Li 0.5 Ta 1.5)O 7 -xTiO 2 (x = 0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08) ceramics. The phase, microstructure and microwave dielectric properties of each ceramic composition were determined via X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Haki Colmon resonator technique, respectively. The dielectric constant, tan δ and AC conductivity were also determined for the composition of x = 0.04. The TiO 2 addition developed new phases of Bi 3 Ti 4 O 12 and Bi 3 TaTiO 9 for x = 0.04 along with Bi 2 (Li 0. 5 Ta 1.5)O 7 phase which disappeared for x = 0.08. The τ f of Bi 2 (Li 0. 5 Ta 1.5)O 7 was tuned through zero by TiO 2 addition and good microwave dielectric properties ε r ~67.2, Q u f õ 13,767 GHz and τ f ~ −1.45 ppm/°C can be obtained for the composition of x = 0.04 sintered at 1050 °C for 2 h. This ceramic composition is a suitable candidate for 5G cellular base station resonator application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper produces some new modified forms of the ratio estimators using the auxiliary information. The large sample properties, that is, the bias and mean squared error up to the first order of approximation are determined. The comparison is made with other existing estimators by using an applied data. It has been observed that the proposed estimators have a fewer mean squared error and leads to the efficient results as compared to the classical ratio estimator, Sisodia and Dwivedi, Singh and Kakran, Upadhyaya and Singh estimators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current work, hydrodynamics of a turbulent contact absorber (TCA) was studied in terms of bed pressure drop and expanded bed height by adopting a simplified modeling approach. The study was carried out computationally using the Eulerian multifluid model in ANSYS Fluent® where the packing was treated as a granular material. In order to simplify the complex three-phase system, it was reduced to a two-phase configuration by considering the solid packing and liquid water as a single phase with appropriate modifications. Both the laminar and turbulent viscous models were tested to study the bed characteristics at different values of liquid and gas flow rates. The covered range of liquid velocity was 0.004–0.012 m/s and that of gas velocity was 1.8–3.6 m/s. It was found that laminar model was able to produce better results as compared to turbulent one. The simulation results for pressure drop across the bed agreed well with the published experimental data. However, for a fixed gas velocity with variable liquid holdup, the bed expansion displayed a reverse trend as compared to experiments. Hence, the current model can be used to predict bed pressure drop of TCA-type systems, but not the expanded bed height. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research work is dedicated to investigating a class of impulsive fractional order differential equations under the Robin boundary conditions via the application of topological degree theory (TDT). We establish some adequate results for the existence of at most one solution for the consider problem. Further, the whole analysis is illustrated by providing a pertinent example. We keep in mind that the conditions we develop by using TDT are much weaker than using ordinary fixed point theory. Hence TDT can be used as powerful tool for the theoretical analysis of many linear and nonlinear problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was intended to identify the endowment of livelihood assets and to assess their role in adoption of livelihood strategies in district Bhimber, AJ&K. A basic survey was carried out to collect primary data from 310 households selected through convenient sampling. Endowment of livelihood assets was calculated by constructing asset indices. Asset weights were obtained using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Assets indices revealed that district has performed best on physical capital (index value 0.63) and human capital (index value 0.59) dimensions. It was found that foreign remittance is the most popular livelihood strategy (29% of households' main source of income) in the district. Apart from this, livelihood strategies are fairly diverse in different tehsils (sub-divisions) of the district. Results of Multinomial Logit Model demonstrate that human capital has the strongest positive role to enable households to enter into more rewarding livelihood strategies. Study recommends to take appropriate steps to reduce pressure on natural resources, to make further investment in human capital to enable people entering into more rewarding livelihood strategies and to educate households to use remittance money for job creating activities to enhance employment opportunities and to augment household income. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, biomass has gained attention as a renewable energy resource due to low emissions and ample availability. Thermochemical conversion technologies to handle biomass are being developed rapidly. Due to complicated multiscale nature of biomass thermochemical conversion, numerical methods are playing important role in understanding detailed underlying mechanisms governing the processes. In this context, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is playing an important role both as a research as well as design tool. There have been many publications in recent years using CFD to simulate systems involving biomass feedstock. In this work, we have tried to briefly summarize the CFD simulations of biomass systems especially after the year 2010 with focus on the drag models being used under the framework of Eulerian methodology. Drag modeling of biomass systems requires special attention due to non-spherical nature of particles both before the initiation of conversion process as well as during the process of thermochemical conversion. It is, therefore, this aspect that we have tried to highlight in this work with a brief review of recent relevant literature as well as a summary of some popular spherical and non-spherical drag models that can be or are being used to model systems containing biomass particles. • Eulerian CFD of hydrodynamics of non-spherical biomass particles is reviewed. • Drag force models after 2010 for non-spherical particles are discussed. • Existing gaps in research of biomass particles are identified. • A multiscale modeling strategy is recommended for biomass particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) is a viral pathogen of various human disorders with no effective preventative interventions. Herein, we aimed to design a chimeric vaccine construct for CVB3 using reverse vaccinology and immunoinformatics approaches by screening the whole viral polyprotein sequence. Firstly, screening and mapping of viral polyprotein to predict 21 immunodominant epitopes (B-cell, CD8+ and CD4+ T-cell epitopes), fused with an adjuvant (Resuscitation-promoting factor), appropriate linkers, HIV-TAT peptide, Pan DR epitope, and 6His-tag to assemble a multi-epitope vaccine construct. The chimeric construct is predicted as probable antigen, non-allergen, stable, possess encouraging physicochemical features, and indicates a broader population coverage (98 %). The tertiary structure of the constructed vaccine was predicted and refined, and its interaction with the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) was investigated through molecular docking and dynamics simulation. Computational cloning of the construct was carried out in pET28a (+) plasmid to guarantee the higher expression of the vaccine protein. Lastly, in silico immune simulation foreseen that humoral and cellular immune responses would be elicited in response to the administration of such a potent chimeric construct. Thus, the design constructed could vaccinate against CVB3 infection and various CVB serotypes. However, further in vitro / in vivo research must assess its safety and effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power plant offers efficient power generation due to possibility of co-firing (i.e., coal with biomass), co-production (electricity, methane, ammonia, etc.) and ease of carbon capture. Thermo-economic analysis of the IGCC power plant is carried out to assess its performance under flexible operation. Motivation of flexible operation comes from the demand variation and volatility of market prices. At the time of peak electricity demand, production of methane and ammonia may be reduced to meet peak electricity demand at high selling price to increase the total product value. Effect of capture level reduction on the total product value is also considered. Various scenarios for the production of electricity, methane and ammonia were generated and simulations were performed for all these scenarios using Aspen Plus ® . Then, nine scenarios for variation in market price were considered and economic analysis was performed. This thermo-economic analysis has shown that total product value can be increased significantly by changing the production decisions against the variable market prices. The total product value was more sensitive to the variations in electricity market price as compared to methane and ammonia prices. However, the effect of capture level reduction was not found to be significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is devoted to the numerical solutions of Lane Emden-Fowler partial differential equations. For the numerical analysis, we apply Laplace transform coupled with the Adomian decomposition method known as the Laplace Adomian decomposition method (LADM). We also compare our numerical results with some already existing methods such as homotopy perturbation method, which reveals that the LADM provides the same solutions without any need of perturbation or collocation. Some numerical test problems are also provided by using Maple software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present work describes the in vitro antibacterial evaluation of some new amino acid conjugated antimicrobial drugs. Structural modification was attempted on the three existing antimicrobial pharmaceuticals namely trimethoprim, metronidazole, isoniazid. Twenty one compounds from seven series of conjugates of these drugs were synthesized by coupling with some selected Boc-protected amino acids. The effect of structural features and lipophilicity on the antibacterial activity was investigated. The synthesized compounds were evaluated against five standard American type culture collection (ATCC) i.e. Staphylococcus aureus , Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella typhi strains of bacteria. Our results identified a close relationship between the lipophilicity and the activity. Triazine skeleton proved beneficial for the increase in hydrophobicity and potency. Compounds with greater hydrophobicity have shown excellent activities against Gram-negative strains of bacteria than Gram-positive. 4-amino unsubstituted trimethoprim-triazine derivative 7b have shown superior activity with MIC = 3.4 μM (2 μg/mL) for S. aureus and 1.1 μM (0.66 μg/mL) for E. coli . The synthesized compounds were also evaluated for their urease inhibition study. Microbial urease from Bacillus pasteurii was chosen for this study. Triazine derivative 7a showed excellent inhibition with IC 50  = 6.23 ± 0.09 μM. Docking studies on the crystal structure of B. pasteurii urease (PDB ID 4UBP ) were carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1- x )Mg 0.90 Ni 0.1 SiO 3 - x TiO 2 ( x = 0, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05) ceramics were successfully formed by the conventional solid-state methods and characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and their microstructure and microwave dielectric properties systematically investigated. It was observed that when TiO 2 content increased from 0 to 5 wt%, the Q u f o of the sample decreased from 118,702 GHz to 101,307 GHz and increases the τ f value from −10 ppm/°C to +3.14 ppm/°C accompanied by a notable lowering in the sintering temperature (125 °C). A good combination of microwave dielectric properties (ε r ∼ 8.29, Q u f o ∼ 101,307 GHz and τ f ∼ −2.98 ppm/°C) were achieved for Mg 0.90 Ni 0.1 SiO 3 containing 3 wt% of TiO 2 sintered at 1300 °C for 9 h which make this material of possible interest for millimeter wave applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mg 1−x Zn x SiO 3 (x=0–0.3) ceramics were successfully synthesized by conventional solid-state methods and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The microstructures and microwave dielectric properties of Mg 1−x Zn x SiO 3 ceramics were systematically investigated. The lattice parameters of the samples with different Zn 2+ contents were analyzed. When the Zn 2+ content was increased from 0 to 0.15, the Q u f o of the sample increased from 103,453 GHz to a maximum 138,481 GHz. This also resulted in a significant lowering in the sintering temperature (90 °C). Monoclinic structured Mg 0.85 Zn 0.15 SiO 3 was detected without any secondary phase. In this study, a new combination of microwave dielectric properties (ε r ∼8.05, Q u f o ∼138,481 GHz, τ f ∼−14 ppm/°C) was achieved for Mg 0.85 Zn 0.15 SiO 3 sample sintered at 1360 °C for 9 h. The prepared material with remarkable useful dielectric properties can be used for millimeter-wave applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SrLa4Ti5-xSnxO17 (0 ⩽ x ⩽ 2) ceramics were fabricated through solid state ceramic route and their microwave dielectric properties were investigated in an attempt to tune their temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) to zero. The compositions were sintered to single phase SrLa4Ti5O17 and SrLa4Ti4.5Sn0.5O17 ceramics at x = 0 and x = 0.5, and SrLa4Ti4-xSnxO17 along with a small amount of La2Ti2O7 at x = 1. The major phase observed at x = 2 was La2Ti2O7 but along with SrLa4Ti4SnO17 and SrLa4Ti4O15 as the secondary phases. τf decreased from 117 to 23.0 ppm/°C but at the cost of dielectric constant (ɛr) and quality factor multiplied by resonant frequency (Qufo) which decreased from 65 to 33.6 and 11150 to 4191 GHz, respectively. The optimum microwave dielectric properties, i.e. τf = 38.6 ppm/°C, ɛr = 45.5 and Q ufo = 7919 GHz, correspond to the SrLa4Ti5-xSnxO17 composition with x = 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Turbulent fluidization is now widely recognized as a distinct flow regime and is commonly utilized in industrial fluidized-bed reactors. However, relatively fewer attempts have been made to rigorously model these systems in comparison to bubbling and circulating fluidized beds. In this work, we have rewritten the original bubble based EMMS model in the form of a mixture to apply it to turbulent fluidization. At microscale this mixture is composed of gas and particles whereas voids and gas-particle suspension make up this mixture at mesoscale level. Subsequently, all the system properties are then calculated in terms of mixture rather than individual phases. With the minimization of the objective function for the bubbling mixture, the set of equations is then solved numerically. The objective function, used to close the system of equations, is composed of the energy consumption rates required to suspend gas-particle suspension and the energy consumed due to the interaction between suspension and voids. The model is then applied to simulate gas–solid turbulent fluidized beds. Simulation results are encouraging as the model is able to predict the dense bottom and dilute top zones along the height of the bed. Comparison of results with experimental data and homogeneous drag model has been made for validation purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been produced by certain gut bacteria and associated with the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colon cancer. H2S is produced by these bacteria regulate the gut inflammation and cell proliferation. The resulted H2S produced by an enzyme Isethionate sulfite-lyase (Isla) in the colonial Bilophila wadsworthia bacteria. Literature has suggested a potential association between Isla and cancer and the production of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Studies suggest that reducing the H2S concentration by targeting Isla is a novel and potential therapeutic target for IBD and colon cancer. We apply structure-based drug-designing approaches for Isla and isolate six compounds from natural products and their synthetic derivatives having improved drug-like properties. The molecular dynamics approach was used to confirm the stability and affinity of the selected compounds. Our finding suggests that these compounds can be possible potential inhibitors for the Isla protein. A glycal radical enzyme called isethionate sulfite-lyase (Isla) breaks the C–S bond in isethionate to produce acetaldehyde and sulfite. This enzyme was found in the Gram-negative, colonial Bilophila wadsworthia bacteria. Sulfur dioxide, acetate, and ammonia are produced by the anaerobic respiration route from (sulfonate isethionate). Strong genotoxic H2S damages the colon's mucous lining, which aids in the development of colorectal cancer. H2S production also contributes to inflammatory bowel diseases such as colitis. Here, we describe the structure-based drug designing for the Isla using an in-house database of naturally isolated compounds and synthetic derivatives. In structure-based drug discovery, a combination of methods was used, including molecular docking, pharmacokinetics properties evaluation, binding free energy calculations by the molecular mechanics/generalized born surface area (MM/GBSA) method, and protein structure dynamics exploration via molecular dynamic simulations, to retrieve novel and putative inhibitors for the Isla protein. Based on the docking score, six compounds show significant binding interaction with the Isla active site crucial residues and exhibit drug-like features, good absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion profile with no toxicity. The binding free energy reveals that these compounds have a strong affinity with the Isla. In addition, the molecular dynamics simulations reveal that these compounds substantially affect the protein structure dynamics. As per our knowledge, this study is the first attempt to discover Isla potential inhibitors. The compounds proposed in the study using a multi-fold computational technique may be verified in vitro as possible inhibitors of Isla and possess the potential for the future development of new medications that target Isla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In practical utilization of stratified random sampling scheme, the investigator meets a problem to select a sample that maximizes the precision of a finite populationmean under cost constraint. An allocation of sample size becomes complicated whenmore than one characteristic is observed from each selected unit in a sample. Inmany real life situations, a linear cost function of a sample size nh is not a good approximation to actual cost of sample survey when traveling cost between selected units in a stratum is significant. In this paper, sample allocation problem in multivariate stratified random sampling with proposed cost function is formulated in integer nonlinear multi objective mathematical programming. A solution procedure is proposed using extended lexicographic goal programming approach. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the computational details and to compare the efficiency of proposed compromise allocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thegeneralized fluidization diagram was drawn by Kwauk [ScientiaSinica, 1963, 12(4), 587–612]and Kwauk [Science Press, Beijing: 1992] for fluidization under steady-statemotion. In this article, we try to extend the work of Kwauk and redrawthe diagram by taking into account the effects of mesoscale structureson drag force closure. The generalized choking is then defined onthe new diagram, which is characterized by the bistable, coexistingstates in both concurrent and countercurrent flows. The theoreticalpredictions are tested against experimental data, showing fair agreementespecially for countercurrent gas-up flows and concurrent-down flows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We prepared (1-x)Na0.5K0.5NbO3-xBi (Li0.5Ta0.5) O3 (x = 0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20) ceramics via solid state sintering method. • The dense microstructure is observed for all compositions. • A high energy-storage density of 1.99 J/cm3 at a breakdown electric field of 151.9 kV/cm is achieved for the composition of x = 0.15. • Good temperature stability satisfying the condition of Δεr/εr200 °C ≤±15% in a working temperature range of 30 °C to 371 is observed for x = 0.15. (1-x)K 0.5 Na 0.5 NbO 3 -xBi (Li 0.5 Ta 0.5)O 3 (x = 0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20) ceramics were processed using a solid-state sintering route. All the sintered samples were characterized in terms of phase, microstructure, dielectric, ferroelectric, and energy storage characteristics. A structural variation from orthorhombic to pseudo-cubic was observed with an increase in x from 0 to 0.20. At x ≥ 0.10, in addition to the parent phase, the formation of a secondary phase was also observed. The grain size decreased with an increase in x value to 0.15 and then increased, for example, at x = 0.20. A charged energy density (W s) of ∼1.99 J/cm3 along with a recoverable energy density (W rec) of ∼1.10 J/cm3 was obtained for the x = 0.15 composition. Moreover, the composition with x = 0.15 exhibited high stability of dielectric constant at temperatures ranging from 30 to 371 °C. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Gas–solid systems, whether cocurrent or countercurrent, manifest meso-scale heterogeneity to some extent. However, most of the previous modelling efforts, including the study of the effects of meso-scale structures as well as relevant drag closures, are mainly focused on cocurrent up riser flows, leaving cocurrent down and countercurrent systems less explored. In this work, by extending drift flux analysis and experimental validation for cocurrent down and countercurrent flow systems, we show that the most commonly used homogeneous drag models may be successful in a certain range of operating conditions, especially with fine-grid resolution. Fine-grid resolution is indeed helpful for reliable simulation of coexisting states, by predicting concave slip velocity curves. By comparison, the energy minimization multiscale (EMMS) drag model allows the use of much coarser grid resolution and better prediction over wider range of operating conditions. Its predictability of the overall slip velocity as well as the drift flux is nearly grid independent over the entire range of voidage. This fact leads us to the obvious advantage of saving computational time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The shear effect of co‐currently flowing water on the flow instabilities induced by swirling steam was investigated. With shear, a 22–27 % decrease in velocity fluctuation amplitude was observed. The decrease was 29–41 % on an exponential and 12–17 % on a proportional basis. Shear reduced the layer thickness on increasing the inlet water pressure from 1 to 2 bar by 1.9–2.9 and 6.35–12.89 % at steam inlet pressures of 1 and 2 bar, respectively. The ratio of the swirl intensity along the dimensionless axial length scale and the initial swirl intensity was changed from < 1 to > 1 across critical point due to the nearly equal values of buoyancy and rotational frequencies. A critical limit of the initial swirl intensity within the control plane was investigated wherein the swirl‐induced instabilities can be attenuated uniformly and the rotational effects dominate over the gravity waves and buoyancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The manuscript presents method to characterize solid particle clusters using digital image analysis and Eulerian CFD. • Cluster size increases with the increase in particle dimeter as well as with the increase in initial solid concentration. • 1% concentration shows single peak while 5 & 10% show bimodal cluster distribution. Presence of meso-scale structures such as particle clusters and gas bubbles is ubiquitous in fluidized beds frequently used in pyrolysis of coal and biomass. In recent years, bubbling and circulating fluidized beds have become popular for highly efficient conversion of carbonaceous feedstock into pyrolysis products. The characterization and study of hydrodynamics inside these reactors can provide an insight into the mechanisms controlling the performance of these reactors. Among others, cluster size distribution and mean cluster size are the key parameters defining the hydrodynamics of these reactors. In the current work, Digital Image Analysis (DIA) was applied to computationally obtained instantaneous snapshots during the CFD simulations of gas-solid flows. Transient two fluid modeling (TFM) was applied to three different gas-solid systems in periodic domains with different particulate systems keeping same grid size. The dimensionless axial cluster size was defined in line with literature. The cluster sizes and their distributions are obtained and compared with the available empirical correlations present in the literature based on experimental observations having similar range of operating conditions as well as system characteristics. It is found that the results of current approach agree well with the available data. The methodology followed in current work presents an alternative to expensive experimentation for development of a universal cluster size correlation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) systems have the ability to utilize low-quality coal with reduced emissions and multiple co-generation capabilities (i.e., power, chemicals and fuels). Integration of solar power tower (SPT) with IGCC co-generation can provide an opportunity to use lignite coal with lowest greenhouse gas emissions. In this work, thermodynamic and economic evaluations of solar-IGCC 100% power (power only) hybrids and co-generation (electricity, methane and ammonia) hybrids have been performed using Aspen Plus® V.11 and system advisor model (SAM). Two designs (i.e., large and medium solar) of the SPT have been simulated and optimized for Pakistani weather conditions. Thermodynamic evaluations include, net electrical efficiency, effective energy efficiency and solar-to-electric efficiency of hybrid plants. Economic estimations include, levelized cost of energy, total plant costs, operating and maintenance costs for hybrid plants. Specific CO 2 emissions after hybridization are also evaluated. Total annualized revenue at flexible market scenarios and production scenarios have also been evaluated. The net boosted electrical efficiency of 100% power (Hyb-1A) is 38.77%, and the improved efficiency after flue gas integration with SPT for the pre-heating of boiler feed water is 39.10%. The minimum specific CO 2 emission achieved from one hybrid combination (Hyb-4A) is 42.1 kg/MWh net. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In real-world situations, the data set under examination may contain uncommon noisy measurements that unreasonably affect the data's outcome and produce incorrect model estimates. Practitioners employed robust-type estimators to reduce the weight of the noisy measurements in a data set in such a scenario. Using auxiliary information that will produce reliable estimates, we have looked at a few flexible robust-type estimators in this study. In order to estimate the population mean, this study presents unique flexible robust regression type ratio estimators that take into account the data from the midrange and interdecile range of the auxiliary variables. Up to the first order of approximate computation, the bias and mean square were calculated. In order to compare the flexibility of the proposed estimator to those of the existing estimators, theoretical conditions were also obtained. We took into account data sets containing outliers for empirical computation, and it was found that the suggested estimators produce results with higher precision than the existing estimators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the existence and uniqueness of the solution, β -Hyers–Ulam–Rassias stability and generalized β -Hyers–Ulam–Rassias stability of an impulsive difference system on bounded and unbounded discrete intervals. At the end, an example is given to illustrate the theoretical result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A conventional solid‐state reaction route was utilized for the fabrication of Ba0.55Sr0.45Ti1−xMnxO3 (x = .004, .006, .008, .01, and .015) ceramics. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) diffractograms revealed pseudo‐cubic structural symmetry with a single phase. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images revealed fine grain morphology for x = .006, while an obvious increase in grain size was detected at x > .006. A high‐energy storage density (Ws) of 2.47 J cm−3 and a recoverable energy density (Wrec) of 1.36 J cm−3 at an applied electric field of 220 kV cm−1 were achieved for x = .006. An impedance spectroscopic study showed the electrical response relationship with microstructure. The observed two semicircles in Nyquist plots are an indication of the contribution of grains (bulk) and grain boundaries as a resistive medium for conduction of charge carriers, which led to enhanced the capability in capacitor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child labour is one of the biggest barriers to human rights worldwide. There is a significant role of parental education in character building of their children. The impact of parental education on child labour is explored in Bajaur using binary logistic approach. This research is based on primary data collected from 300 households through field survey out of which 150 are taken from Khar division and 150 from Nawagai division. The results revealed that the parental education and income of households were negatively correlated with child labour, whereas the age of child and family size had positive impact on child labour. This study suggests that there is a need to improve the parental education through different training sessions so that parents may encourage to send their children to school rather than to work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Turbulence modeling is essential for CFD modeling of TCA at higher operating velocities. • RNG k-ε (per phase) is recommended for accurate prediction of TCA hydrodynamics. • SST k-w predicts reversed radial velocity profiles for all three phases in TCA. • Expanded bed height and bed pressure drop can be used as parameters to compare CFD and experimental results. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study is conducted to find a suitable two equation turbulence model for accurate prediction of hydrodynamics of an inhouse turbulence contact absorber (TCA) at high gas and liquid velocities. Based on the multi-fluid Eulerian approach, hydrodynamics of TCA is simulated by incorporating three turbulence models i.e. standard k–ε model, RNG k–ε model and SST k–ω model in ANSYS Fluent®. The solid phase stresses were closed by using the kinetic theory of granular flows (KTGF). TCA hydrodynamics parameters; expanded bed height and bed pressure drop were used to compare the results of this study with experimental data and also with earlier numerical study published with laminar viscous model. It was found that the RNG k–ε model predicted the bed height and pressure drop better than its counterparts. To accurately find the effects of secondary phase turbulence, two RNG k–ε model options i-e. per phase and dispersed were also evaluated. The results show that the "per phase" option of RNG k–ε model produced the expanded bed height and pressure drop in close agreement with available experimental data at similar operating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil is one of the most important natural resources. It is the outer most weathered layer of earth crust supporting plant life. The analysis indicated that CaCO3 was 16.75, organic matter 0.51, N 0.025, P 9.24, K 100, pH 9.2, Ec 2.95, TSS 0.944 and Gr. 10.32. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy sources are contributing to the displacement of fossil fuel use for power generation and biomass combustion is a viable alternative for baseload power. Fluidized bed combustion (FBC) technology has become a favorable option for biomass (including industrial wastes) fired boilers for its benefits including fuel flexibility, high combustion efficiency, lower emissions (NOx, SOx) in comparison to other solid fuel fired boilers. However, the variation of inorganic species and corrosive deposits lead to bed agglomeration resulting in unscheduled outages. In the present work, biomass combustion and bed agglomeration in a pilot scale atmospheric-fluidized bed combustor is simulated and analyzed. The Eulerian–Eulerian simulation is validated with the experimental data available in literature using a two-dimensional simplified geometry of a pilot scale fluidized bed combustor. Two each homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions are considered for devolatilization and char combustion processes during combustion with the species transport model. Population Balance Model (PBM) is implemented to calculate agglomerate hydrodynamics with air fed as fluidizing medium from the bottom of the combustor. The model results compared well and found consistent with available experimental data. Prediction of defluidization time of the bed showed a good agreement with the results of experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive study was conducted to investigate the effect of temperature variations of water bath along with the sample's storage duration on the results of the glutaraldehyde coagulation test (GCT), being developed for the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Furthermore, association of GCT results and duration of tuberculosis, tuberculosis + Hepatitis C virus positive, hepatitis C virus infected and control negative humans was also assessed. The blood samples from tuberculosis positive as well as negative humans and animals were collected and carried GCT with the variation of storage duration and temperature at which test performed (V1-V6). The demographic data of all individuals along with blood samples was also collected. Hematological and serum biochemical analysis was also performed. The results showed the significantly (P<0.05) lower time for coagulation of blood samples by the glutaraldehyde in TB positive than negative cases in all variations of temperature and samples storage time, with the remarkable difference in humans than animals. Time taken for coagulation was less than 10min when tuberculosis disease was of less than six months' duration and was around 10min when the disease was of more than six months. The coagulation time for tuberculosis + HCV and HCV alone were non-significantly (P>0.05) different from the control group. Increased fibrinogen level in tuberculosis positive humans and animals and decrease in hepatitis patients confirmed the relationship of fibrinogen level with coagulation time of the glutaraldehyde test. The diagnostic value of the glutaraldehyde test for human and animal tuberculosis has been highly speculated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]