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This paper emphasizes the integration of wind and photovoltaic (PV) generation with battery energy storage systems (BESS) in distribution networks (DNs) to enhance grid sustainability, reliability, and flexibility. A novel multi‐objective optimization framework is introduced in this study to minimize energy supply costs, emissions, and energy losses while improving voltage deviation (VD) and voltage stability index (VSI). The proposed framework comprising normal boundary intersection (NBI) and decomposition‐based evolutionary algorithms (DBEA) determines the optimal siting and sizing of renewable‐based distributed resources, considering load demand variations and the intermittency of wind and solar outputs. The comparative analysis establishes that the proposed strategy performs better than many contemporary algorithms, specifically when all the objective functions are optimized simultaneously. The validation of the proposed framework was carried out on the standard IEEE‐33 bus test network, which demonstrates significant percentage savings in energy supply costs (49.6%), emission rate (62.2%), and energy loss (92.3%), along with enormous improvements in VSI (91.9%) and VD (99.8953%). The obtained results categorically underline the efficiency, reliability, and robustness of the proposed approach when employed on any complex distribution network comprising multiple renewable energy sources and battery storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visual clarity is significantly compromised, and the efficacy of numerous computer vision tasks is impeded by the widespread presence of haze in images. Innovative approaches to accurately minimize haze while keeping image features are needed to address this difficulty. The difficulties of current methods and the need to create better ones are brought to light in this investigation of the haze removal problem. The main goal is to provide a region-specific haze reduction approach by utilizing an Adaptive Neural Training Net (ANTN). The suggested technique uses adaptive training procedures with external haze images, pixel-segregated images, and haze-reduced images. Iteratively comparing spectral differences in hazy and non-hazy areas improves accuracy and decreases haze reduction errors. This study shows that the recommended strategy significantly improves upon the existing training ratio, region differentiation, and precision methods. The results demonstrate that the proposed method is effective, with a 9.83% drop in mistake rate and a 14.55% drop in differentiating time. This study's findings highlight the value of adaptable neural networks for haze reduction without losing image quality. The research concludes with a positive outlook on the future of haze reduction methods, which should lead to better visual clarity and overall performance across a wide range of computer vision applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of robotic systems in human assistance is inevitable with the bots that assist with interactive and voice commands. For cooperative and precise assistance, the understandability of these bots needs better input analysis. This article introduces a Comparable Input Assessment Technique (CIAT) to improve the bot system's understandability. This research introduces a novel approach for HRI that uses optimized algorithms for input detection, analysis, and response generation in conjunction with advanced neural classifiers. This approach employs deep learning models to enhance the accuracy of input identification and processing efficiency, in contrast to previous approaches that often depended on conventional detection techniques and basic analytical methods. Regardless of the input type, this technique defines cooperative control for assistance from previous histories. The inputs are cooperatively validated for the instruction responses for human assistance through defined classifications. For this purpose, a neural classifier is used; the maximum possibilities for assistance using self-detected instructions are recommended for the user. The neural classifier is divided into two categories according to its maximum comparable limits: precise instruction and least assessment inputs. For this purpose, the robot system is trained using previous histories and new assistance activities. The learning process performs comparable validations between detected and unrecognizable inputs with a classification that reduces understandability errors. Therefore, the proposed technique was found to reduce response time by 6.81%, improve input detection by 8.73%, and provide assistance by 12.23% under varying inputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is causing drastic reduction in crop yields around the globe due to increase in soil salinity, drought and heat stress. Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) is regarded as a very significant food security crop considering the climate change scenario. Two quinoa genotypes (Puno and Titicaca) were cultivated on salt affected soil under drought stress with different sowing dates. Compared with early sowing, late sowing combined with salinity and drought stress caused drastic decline in plant growth and grain yield due to imposition of heat stress. Plant biomass and grain yield decreased by 26% and 39% in Puno, and by 34% and 49% in Titicaca under late sowing accompanied by salt and drought stress. Relative water contents and stomatal conductance of leaves declined in the same trend in both genotypes. Shoot Na+ concentration was the highest whereas K+ concentration was the lowest in both genotypes when drought and salt stress were combined under late sowing. Grain minerals (Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, K, P, N and Mn) and dietary contents (protein, lipids, carbohydrates and fibre) were decreased more under the combination of salinity and drought for late sowing as compared to early sowing. When salinity and drought stress were combined under late sowing, the contents of H2O2 and TBARS were 1.9 and 2.2‐fold higher in Puno and 2.4 and 2.6‐fold higher in Titicaca, respectively. The oxidative stress was mitigated by enhanced activities of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD and POD) more in Puno than Titicaca. Plant biomass and grain yield were higher in Puno with better grain quality than Titicaca. Hence, this genotype should be cultivated on salt affected soils facing drought and high temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) play an important role in the pathogenesis of age-linked disorders and diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to assess the repurposing potential of Phloroglucinol (PHL the antispasmodic drug), as an anti-glycation agent using Fructose-BSA model. The ability of PHL to inhibit AGE formation was evaluated using AGEs formation (Intrinsic fluorescence), fructosamine adduct (NBT) and free lysine availability (TNBSA) assays. The BSA protein conformation was assessed through Thioflavin-T, Congo-Red and Circular Dichroism assays. The lysine blockade and carbonyl entrapment were explored as possible mode of action. Our data showed that PHL significantly decreased the formation of AGEs with an IC50 value of 0.3mM. The fructosamine adducts and free lysine load was found to be reduced. Additionally, the BSA conformation was preserved by PHL. Mechanistic assays did not reveal involvement of lysine blockade as underlying reason for reduction in AGEs load. This was also supported by computational data whereby PHL failed to engage any catalytic residue involved in early fructose-BSA interaction. However, it was found to entrap the carbonyl moieties. In conclusion, the PHL demonstrated anti-glycation potential, which can be attributed to its ability to entrap carbonyl intermediates. Hence, the clinically available antispasmodic drug, presents itself as a promising candidate to be repurposed as anti-glycation agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Postpartum depression (PPD) is prevalent among women after childbirth, but accessing mental healthcare for PPD is challenging. This study aimed to assess the treatment gap and barriers to mental healthcare access for women with PPD symptoms living in Punjab, Pakistan. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in five populous cities of Punjab from January to June 2023 by administering the questionnaire to the women using stratified random sampling. A total of 3,220 women in first 6 months postpartum were screened using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Of them, 1,503 women scored thirteen or above, indicating potential depressive disorder. Interviews were conducted to explore help-seeking behavior and barriers to accessing mental healthcare. Descriptive statistics along with nonparametric tests (e.g., Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney U) were used and group differences were examined. Scatter plot matrices with fitted lines were used to explore associations between variables. Classification and regression tree methods were used to classify the importance and contribution of different variables for the intensity of PPD. Results: Only 2% of women (n = 33) with high PPD symptoms sought mental healthcare, and merely 5% of women (n = 75) had been in contact with a health service since the onset of their symptoms. 92.80% of women with PPD symptoms did not seek any medical attention. The majority of women, 1,215 (81%), perceived the need for mental health treatment; however, 91.23% of them did not seek treatment from healthcare services. Women who recently gave birth to a female child had higher mean depression scores compared to those who gave birth to a male child. Age, education, and birth location of newborn were significantly associated (p < 0.005) with mean barrier scores, mean social support scores, mean depression scores and treatment gap. The results of classification and regression decision tree model showed that instrumental barrier scores are the most important in predicting mean PPD scores. Conclusion: Women with PPD symptoms encountered considerable treatment gap and barriers to access mental health care. Integration of mental health services into obstetric care as well as PPD screening in public and private hospitals of Punjab, Pakistan is critically needed to overcome the treatment gap and barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A substantial level of significance has been placed on renewable energy systems, especially photovoltaic (PV) systems, given the urgent global apprehensions regarding climate change and the need to cut carbon emissions. One of the main concerns in the field of PV is the ability to track power effectively over a range of factors. In the context of solar power extraction, this research paper performs a thorough comparative examination of ten controllers, including both conventional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controllers and artificial intelligence (AI) controllers. Various factors, such as voltage, current, power, weather dependence, cost, complexity, response time, periodic tuning, stability, partial shading, and accuracy, are all intended to be evaluated by the study. It is aimed to provide insight into how well each controller performs in various circumstances by carefully examining these broad parameters. The main goal is to identify and recommend the best controller based on their performance. It is notified that, conventional techniques like INC, P&O, INC-PSO, P&O-PSO, achieved accuracies of 94.3, 97.6, 98.4, 99.6 respectively while AI based techniques Fuzzy-PSO, ANN, ANFIS, ANN-PSO, PSO, and FLC achieved accuracies of 98.6, 98, 98.6, 98.8, 98.2, 98 respectively. The results of this study add significantly to our knowledge of the applicability and effectiveness of both AI and traditional MPPT controllers, which will help the solar industry make well-informed choices when implementing solar energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have used density functional theory simulations to explore the topological characteristics of a new MXene‐like material, V4C3, and its oxide counterpart, assessing their potential as anode materials for Mg‐ion batteries. Our research reveals that V4C3 monolayer is a topological type‐II nodal line semimetal, protected by time reversal and spatial inversion symmetries. This type‐II nodal line is marked by unique drumhead‐like edge states that appear either inside or outside the loop circle, contingent upon the edge ending. Intriguingly, even with an increase in metallicity due to oxygen functionalization, the topological features of V4C3 remain intact. Consequently, the monolayer V4C3 has a topologically enhanced electrical conductivity that amplifies further upon oxygen functionalization. During the charging phase, a remarkable storage concentration led to a peak specific capacity of 894.73 mAh g−1 for V4C3, which only decreases to 789.33 mAh g−1 for V4C3O2. When compared to V2C, V4C3 displays a significantly lower specific capacity loss due to functionalization, demonstrating its superior electrochemical properties. Additionally, V4C3 and V4C3O2 exhibit moderate average open‐circuit voltages (0.54 V for V4C3 and 0.58 V for V4C3O2) and energy barriers for intercalation migration (ranging between 0.29–0.63 eV), which are desirable for anode materials. Thus, our simulation results support V4C3 potential as an efficient anode material for Mg‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, electricity theft is a major issue in many countries and poses a significant financial loss for global power utilities. Conventional Electricity Theft Detection (ETD) models face challenges such as the curse of dimensionality and highly imbalanced electricity consumption data distribution. To overcome these problems, a hybrid system Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) approach with Gated Recurrent Units (GRU) is proposed in this work. The proposed hybrid system is applied to analyze and solve electricity theft using data from the Chinese National Grid Corporation (CNGC). In the proposed hybrid system, first, preprocess the data; second, balance the data using the k-means Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) technique; third, apply the GTU model to the extracted purified data; fourth, apply the MLP model to the extracted purified data; and finally, evaluate the performance of the proposed system using different performance measures such as graphical analysis and a statistical test. To verify the consistency of our proposed hybrid system, we use three different ratios for training and testing the dataset. The outcomes show that the proposed hybrid system for ETD is highly accurate and efficient compared to the other models like Alexnet, GRU, Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit (BGRU) and Recurrent Neural Network (RNN). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FT-Raman, UV-visible, infrared Fourier transform, and DFT approaches, were used on molecule 3-amino-2,5-dichloropyridine. An extensive analysis of the vibrational distribution energy has been undertaken for the complete assignments for all the vibrations. Also carried out atoms in molecules theory of topological analysis, reduced density gradient and electron localization function. The contacts among the giver and acceptor were studied through natural bond orbital. The estimated values for the orbital of the highest and orbital of the lowest for various solvents reflect the electron stimulation properties. The electronic transition was obtained by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and time dependent-density function theory method with several solvents. The molecule's reactive regions are obtained by Fukui function and MEP exploration. The compound was subjected to non-linear optical investigations to determine its dipole moment, first-order polarizability, and hyperpolarizability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimisation of molecular geometry of the headline compound, 4-pyrrolidin-2-yl-pyridine (4P2YLP) was achieved theoretically exercising Density Functional Theory using B3LYP standard approach utilising basis set, 6-311++G(d,p). Using Gaussian 09, HOMO–LUMO analysis was achieved to comprehend the chemical activity and electronic properties of the heading compound. The least HOMO–LUMO gap was obtained for gas phase (5.6486). Bonding interlinkage of the fragments is accomplished by Natural Bonding Orbitals (NBO), as steadiness and chemical reactivity depend on the border molecular orbitals. The nucleophilic & electrophilic spots along with 3D charge transmission areas are determined using the Molecular Electrostatic Potential (MEP). Multiwfn 3.8 software with Pauli Repulsion (PR) & electron localization has been used to conduct ELF and LOL research. While LOL simply displays the most closely spaced orbitals overlapping, ELF displays the electron pair density. Non-linear response properties are analysed in a variety of solvents. The dipole moment (1.9039), polarizability (3.23017E-23 esu) & first order hyperpolarizability (1.51981E-30 esu) of water are the highest values among the selected solvents. Different solvents endured UV–Vis analysis employing TD-DFT technique and the absorption of maximum wavelength is accomplished. Fructose 5-dehydrogenase inhibitor activity by docking is investigated using molecular modelling procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current paper studied the dynamics of shear‐free and spherically symmetric collapsing stars by incorporating the features of anisotropic dissipative fluid in the realm of f(R)$f(R)$ gravity. A complete radiative star model that describes the early static configuration obeying the embedding class 1 approach is generated. To acquittance the exact solutions of the geometric variables, a specific form of pressure anisotropy along with a time‐dependent Karmarkar condition is employed, leading to a spacetime solution that seems to be potentially reliable and regular throughout the collapse process. The matching conditions have been thoroughly investigated between the interior geometry and the Vaidya outgoing solution over the junction interface. The physical attributes of our solutions to the Einstein field equations under two viable and cosmologically well‐consistent models of f(R)$f(R)$ are manifested. The presented features are in a stable equilibrium state and sustainable to model a dynamic structure of gravitational collapse without forming the black hole. The current paper studied the dynamics of shear‐free and spherically symmetric collapsing stars by incorporating the features of anisotropic dissipative fluid in the realm of f(R) gravity. A complete radiative star model that describes the early static configuration obeying the embedding class 1 approach is generated. To acquittance the exact solutions of the geometric variables, a specific form of pressure anisotropy along with a time‐dependent Karmarkar condition is employed, leading to a spacetime solution that seems to be potentially reliable and regular throughout the collapse process. The matching conditions have been thoroughly investigated between the interior geometry and the Vaidya outgoing solution over the junction interface. The physical attributes of our solutions to the Einstein field equations under two viable and cosmologically well‐consistent models of f(R) are manifested. The presented features are in a stable equilibrium state and sustainable to model a dynamic structure of gravitational collapse without forming the black hole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data security assurance is crucial due to the increasing prevalence of cloud computing and its widespread use across different industries, especially in light of the growing number of cybersecurity threats. A major and everpresent threat is Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) assaults, which enable even individuals with minimal technical knowledge to conduct ransomware operations. This study provides a new approach for RaaS attack detection which uses an ensemble of deep learning models. For this purpose, the network intrusion detection dataset "UNSWNB15" from the Intelligent Security Group of the University of New South Wales, Australia is analyzed. In the initial phase, the rectified linear unit-, scaled exponential linear unit-, and exponential linear unit-based three separate Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) models are developed. Later, using the combined predictive power of these three MLPs, the RansoDetect Fusion ensemble model is introduced in the suggested methodology. The proposed ensemble technique outperforms previous studieswith impressive performance metrics results, including 98.79% accuracy and recall, 98.85% precision, and 98.80% F1-score. The empirical results of this study validate the ensemble model's ability to improve cybersecurity defenses by showing that it outperforms individual MLPmodels. In expanding the field of cybersecurity strategy, this research highlights the significance of combined deep learning models in strengthening intrusion detection systems against sophisticated cyber threats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimal power flow is a complex and highly non-linear problem in which steady-state parameters are needed to find a network’s efficient and economical operation. In addition, the difficulty of the Optimal power flow problem becomes enlarged when new constraints are added, and it is also a challenging task for the power system operator to solve the constrained Optimal power flow problems efficiently. Therefore, this paper presents a constrained composite differential evolution optimization algorithm to search for the optimum solution to Optimal power flow problems. In the last few decades, numerous evolutionary algorithm implementations have emerged due to their superiority in solving Optimal power flow problems while considering various objectives such as cost, emission, power loss, etc. evolutionary algorithms effectively explore the solution space unconstrainedly, often employing the static penalty function approach to address the constraints and find solutions for constrained Optimal power flow problems. It is a drawback that combining evolutionary algorithms and the penalty function approach requires several penalty parameters to search the feasible space and discard the infeasible solutions. The proposed a constrained composite differential evolution algorithm combines two effective constraint handling techniques, such as feasibility rule and ɛ constraint methods, to search in the feasible space. The proposed approaches are recognized on IEEE 30, 57, and 118-bus standard test systems considering 16 study events of single and multi-objective optimization functions. Ultimately, simulation results are examined and compared with the many recently published techniques of Optimal power flow solutions owing to show the usefulness and performance of the proposed a constrained composite differential evolution algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential of solid waste as an energy source is clear, owing to its wide availability and renewable properties, which provide a critical answer for energy security. This can be especially effective in reducing the environmental impact of fossil fuels. Countries that rely heavily on coal should examine alternatives such as electricity from solid waste to provide a constant energy supply while also contributing to atmospheric restoration. In this regards, Low Emissions Analysis Platform (LEAP) is used for simulation the entire energy system in Pakistan and forecasted its capital cost and future CO2 emissions in relation to the use of renewable and fossil fuel resources under the different growth rates of solid waste projects like 20%, 30% and 40% for the study period 2023–2053. The results revealed that, 1402.97 TWh units of energy are generated to meet the total energy demand of 1193.93 TWh until 2053. The share of solid waste based electricity in total energy mix is increasing from a mere 0.81% in 2023 to around 9.44% by 2053 under the 20% growth rate, which then increase to 39.67% by 2053 under the 30% growth rate and further increases to 78.33% by 2053 under the 40% growth rate. It is suggested that 40% growth rate for solid waste based electricity projects is suitable for Pakistan until 2053 because under this condition, renewable sources contributes 95.2% and fossil fuels contributed 4.47% in the total energy mix of Pakistan. Hence, CO2 emissions are reduced from 148.26 million metric tons to 35.46 million metric tons until 2053 but capital cost is increased from 13.23 b$ in 2023 to 363.11 b$ by 2053. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-level inverters are widely employed to generate new energy because of their huge capacity and benefits in sound control performance. One of the critical areas of study for multi-level inverters is control strategy research. In this study, the control strategy for a multi-level inverter—which is frequently employed in HVDC and FACTS systems—is designed. An asymmetrical D.C. voltage source is supplied to create the appropriate output voltage waveform with fewer total harmonic distortions (THDs) at the output voltage and current waveforms. In this work, the pulse width modulation techniques of POD (phase opposition disposition) and APOD (alternative phase opposition disposition) MC PWM are applied to a multi-level inverter to generate the seven-level output voltage waveform. This study presents an enhanced variable carrier frequency APOD control approach that can successfully lower the overall harmonic distortion rate. The design and completion of the phase-shifting POD and APOD control strategies are followed by an analysis and comparison of the THD situation under various switching frequencies and a simulation and verification of the control strategy using MATLAB simulation. The TI DSP-based control approach has been programmed. The APOD technique increases the output voltage's THD to 18.27%, while the output current waveform's THD is reduced to 15.67% by utilizing the APOD PWM technique. Using the POD PWM approach increases the total harmonic distortion (THD) of the voltage waveform by 18.06% and the output current waveform's THD by 15.45%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral delivery, the most common method of therapeutic administration, has two significant obstacles: drug solubility and permeability. The challenges of current oral medicine delivery are being tackled through an emerging method that uses structures called polymeric micelles. In the present study, polymeric micelles were developed using conjugates of linoleic acid–carboxymethyl chitosan (LA-CMCS) for the oral delivery of paclitaxel (PCL). The developed micelles were evaluated by particle size, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). When PCL was contained within micelles, its solubility increased by almost 13.65 times (around 60 µg/mL). The micelles' zeta potentials were −29 mV, their polydispersity indices were 0.023, and their particle diameters were 93 nm. Micelles showed PCL loading and entrapment efficiencies of 67% and 61%, respectively. The sustained release qualities of the PCL release data from micelles were good. In comparison to the pure PCL suspension, the permeability of the PCL from micelles was 2.2 times higher. The pharmacokinetic data revealed that PCL with LA-CMCS micelles had a relative bioavailability of 239.17%, which was much greater than the PCL in the suspension. The oral bioavailability of PCL was effectively increased by LA-CMCS micelles according to an in vivo study on animals. The polymer choice, maybe through improved permeability, plays an essential role when assessing oral bioavailability enhancement and solubility improvement (13.65 times). The outcomes demonstrated that PCL's solubility and pharmacokinetics were improved in the micelles of the LA-CMCS conjugate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To compare the mean reduction in postprandial plasma glucose in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 by dietary fibre (psyllium husk) to those not using dietary fibre (psyllium husk) and on standard treatment. Study Design: Randomized Controlled Trial. Setting: Department of Medicine, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad. Period: 30th November 2022 to 29th May 2023. Methods: A total of 60 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients of both genders, age >18 to 60 years, diagnosed with DM for more than two years, were selected. Patients undergoing insulin therapy, history of DSF allergy, gastrointestinal surgery, and pregnant or lactating women were excluded. Group A received soluble ffibre10.5 g daily for 12 weeks of intervention and standard medications oforDM. Postprandial glucose was checked after 2 hours of meal. In comparison, Group B did not receive any food supplements throughout the intervention period and continued regular diets. The outcome of Blood samples was obtained in terms of mean reduction in postprandial glucose. Results: Mean reduction in Postprandial glucose in Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus by dietary fibre (psyllium husk) was 14.33 ± 2.04 mmol/l, and in those who are not using dietary fibre (psyllium husk) and on standard treatment, it was 10.83 ± 1.95 mmol/l (p-value = 0.0001). Conclusion: This study concluded that the mean reduction in Postprandial glucose in Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus by dietary fibre (psyllium husk) is relatively high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) continue to threaten health worldwide, and account for a significant portion of deaths and illnesses. In both developing and industrialized nations, they challenge their health systems. There are several traditional uses of Cucurbitaceae seeds in Pakistan, India, Iran, and China, including treating cardiovascular, neurological, and urogenital diseases. Methods: In the present work, integrated techniques of metabolomics profiling and computational cardiomyocyte stimulation were used to investigate possible mechanisms of C. melo in isoprenaline (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction. In vitro, vasoconstrictions, paired atria, and in vivo invasive blood pressure measurement models were performed to explore the mechanism of action of C. melo hydroethanolic seed extract (Cm-EtOH). Results: Results showed that Cm-EtOH demonstrates NO-based endotheliumderived relaxing factor (EDRF) vasorelaxant response, negative chronotropic and inotropic response in the atrium, and hypotensive effects in normotensive rats. Results also revealed that Cm-EtOH decreases cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and reverts the altered gene expressions, biochemical, and metabolites in ISO-induced myocardial infarction (MI) rats. The extract additionally reversed ISO-induced MIinduced oxidative stress, energy consumption, and amino acid metabolism. Moreover, C. melo seeds increased EDRF function, energy production, and antioxidant capacity to treat myocardial and vascular disorders. In computational cardiomyocyte simulation, gallic acid reduced action potential duration, upstroke velocity (dV/dtmax), and effective refractory period. Conclusion: This study highlights the therapeutic potential of C. melo seeds to treat cardiovascular diseases and provides mechanistic insight into its antihypertensive and cardioprotective activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of robust surface electronic states in topological insulators such as bulk Sr3PbO inverse‐perovskite makes them suitable candidates for spintronic devices and solid‐state quantum computers. Herein, the atomic structure, surface energetics, and electronic properties of Sr3PbO inverse‐perovskite Sr2O (SO)‐terminated and SrPb‐terminated (001) surfaces are examined using density functional theory. A comparison of the computed structural properties of SO‐termianted and SrPb‐terminated (001) surfaces reveals maximum surface rumpling and changes in interlayer distances for the SrPb‐terminated surface of Sr3PbO. However, the calculated surface energies indicate that both SO‐termianted and SrPb‐terminated (001) surfaces of Sr3PbO are energetically feasible, indicating that these surfaces can coexist in a polycrystalline sample of this material. Due to the presence of Pb in Sr3PbO, a comprehensive examination of the electronic structure of bulk and supercell slab structures of Sr3PbO by taking spin–orbit coupling effects into consideration is conducted. Noninsulating nature of electronic structure for the two possible (001) terminations of Sr3PbO is found. The domination of Pb‐6p states at the Fermi energy and the hole screening observed at the SrPb‐terminated surface of Sr3PbO support the p‐type nature observed in the experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mini Hydropower Plants (MHPPs) are increasingly popular for rural electrification in developing nations due to their ecologically friendly operation. However, constant load fluctuation in these facilities poses a speed control issue. The mechanical, hydraulic governor, commonly used to face this challenge, cannot provide the best speed control due to its mechanical component system. Thus, an electrohydraulic PIDbased governor is proposed to control the frequency and speed of MHPPs in a distribution network. This governor's suitability for regulating the system's frequency in response to significant load variations within the distribution network is going to be determined in this study. The small hydropower plant and distribution system are modeled using the PSCAD software. A comparison between the mechanical hydraulic governor and the electro-PID governor was conducted by analyzing load fluctuations between 5% and 20%. The electro-PID governor responded faster and more actively to load connections and disconnections than the mechanical hydraulic governor, as the latter reduces large overshoots and undershoots, which can be dangerous and damaging to equipment. The electro-PID governor also helps to maintain a stable frequency within acceptable limits, ensuring smooth operation and minimizing the risk of system failures or disruptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The molecular structure of 1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl) ethenone has been optimized, and its various parameters were ascertained, using Density Functional Theory. The molecule's Fourier Transform-Infra Red and Raman spectra are recorded and examined. By comparing the computational and experimental results, molecular structure, bond length, and vibrational band intensity were all interpreted. The Integral Equation Formalism polarizable continuum model's depictions of electronic and Frontier Molecular Orbital solvent interaction investigations are sported to perceive the charge transfer among the atoms of the molecule in eco-green solvents such as water, acetone, and ethanol. The reactivity sites can be studied by locating and charting the electron density on the surface. The compound's hardness, softness, electrophilicity, and ionization potential were all analyzed. The pharmacological effects and intra-molecular hyper conjugative interactions are liable for its molecular stability, as shown by Natural Bond Orbital research. Topological studies, including Electron Localized Function, Localized Orbital Locator, and Reduced density gradient analysis, were performed to locate the compound's bonding area and Vander Waals interactions. Urea was used as a reference compound to examine the substance's non-linear optical characteristics. Total Density of States has investigated the role of molecular orbitals. Drug-likeness, a Ramachandran plot, and molecular docking were also performed to further analyze 1-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl) ethanone's biological activity. The docking results lend credence to the idea that the title compound could function as a powerful cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we describe the synthesis and characterization of a mononuclear Ni complex, [Ni(mdeaH2)2](PhCO2)2 (1; mdeaH2 = N-methyldiethanolamine, PhCO2 = benzoate). The mononuclear Ni complex was characterized by FT-IR, UV-Vis, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and its phase purity was confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). Magnetic data revealed antiferromagnetic interactions. Intermolecular interactions in the solid state were investigated by Hirshfeld surface analysis. Moreover, an assessment of potential inhibitory effects of this complex against rabies, rotavirus, and SARS CoV-2 was performed by a molecular docking study that suggests 1 has a strong affinity for three proteins, 6TOU, 7ZFM, and 7WC0, from the Protein Data Bank. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autonomous vehicles can transform the transportation sector by offering a safer and more effective means of travel. However, the success of self-driving cars depends on their ability to navigate complex road conditions, including the detection of potholes. Potholes pose a substantial risk to vehicles and passengers, leading to potential damage and safety hazards, making their detection a critical task for autonomous driving. In this work, we propose a robust and efficient solution for pothole detection using the "you look only once (YOLO) algorithm of version 8, the newest deep learning object detection algorithm." Our proposed system employs a deep learning methodology to identify real-time potholes, enabling autonomous vehicles to avoid potential hazards and minimise accident risk. We assess the effectiveness of our system using publicly available datasets and show that it outperforms existing state-of- the-art approaches interms of accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, we investigate different data augmentation methods to enhance the detection capabilities of our proposed system. Our results demonstrate that YOLO V8-based pothole detection is a promising solution for autonomous driving and can significantly improve the safety and reliability of self-driving vehicles on the road. The results of our study are also compared with the results of YOLO V5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional manufacturing enterprises cannot adjust their production line structure in the short term. They face significant challenges in adapting to the rapidly changing market environment and meeting various variable batch production requirements. Building a suitable and convenient multi-layer planning and scheduling model is an important goal to solve the efficient operation of manufacturing enterprises. This paper proposes a planning and scheduling design that meets the needs of enterprise and the production workshop using the APERT-VC model through a top-down design methodology. APERT is an enterprise-level plan that uses attention mechanisms to collect job plan time and decomposes project plans into workshop plans through PERT technology. virtual command is workshop level plan management, which converts workshop plans into time series vectors and achieves rapid and comprehensive guidance of workshop resource planning for enterprises through multiple classification and decision-making. Through experiments, the algorithm achieved production scheduling accuracy improvement of over 30% compared to previous algorithms and a decision accuracy rate of over 90%. The first half of the new model solves the problem of collecting work time for multi variety and variable batch products, and improves the accuracy of algorithm input. The second half of the new algorithm innovatively combines image recognition technology with dispatcher behavior, achieving efficient simulation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to highlight and explore the similarities and differences of the noun inflections and their functions in English language and in Astori dialect of Shina language. This research contributes significantly to readers' understanding of the morphology of Shina, and it is of interest to linguists, language educators, and policymakers working on the promotion and preservation of endangered languages in Pakistan. The study has carried out a morphological analysis so as to explore the similarities and differences of noun inflections and their functions in both the languages. For the said analysis, inflections of nouns have been taken into considerations as the stand point of the research work. Findings of the study revealed that Shina nouns are highly inflected as compared to English nouns. The noun inflections are not easy to handle in Shina because noun inflections in Shina (Astori dialect) have more than one function in a single context, but on the other hand, English nouns are easy to handle as they are not that much inflected, and nouns are inflected, in English, hardly to show possessive case in a context. Furthermore, the study found that proper nouns in English are inflected neither in subject position nor do they in object position, however, proper nouns are also inflected in Shina whether they are in subjective case or in objective case. This study targeted only the noun inflections and their functions, further research may be conducted on other aspects of Shina language like; inflections of verb, pronoun adjective, syntactic structures, tense and aspect etc in Shina language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate thyroid function tests (TFTs) during pregnancy in women with previous history of miscarriage or stillbirth. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out at the department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Endocrinology, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar from February 2021 to March 2022. All multigravida women attending the antenatal clinics were included using consecutive sampling. These women were placed into two groups, Group-A comprised of women with no prior history of miscarriages or stillbirths, and those with a history of foetal death during previous pregnancies were assigned Group-B. Free T4, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies were measured and the former two were used to label patients with thyroid dysfunction. Results: A total of 139 multigravida women were included in the study. About 43% of the women had a history of miscarriages or stillbirths. Thyroid dysfunction was observed overall in 36.69 % women, of whom 25.18% had subclinical hypothyroidism, 6.47% had hypothyroidism and 5.04 % were sub-clinical hyperthyroid. Women in Group-B had more thyroid functions abnormalities compared to Group-A (p<0.05). Moreover, there was significant difference in median TSH and freeT4 between the groups (p<0.001). Overall, thyroid dysfunction was found in 66.67% of patients who had a history of foetal death. Conclusions: In pregnant women with a history of miscarriage or abortion, thyroid functions abnormalities are common therefore routine thyroid testing is advised in pregnant women to prevent adverse perinatal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to find the frequency of mortality and length of hospital stay in patients with liver cirrhosis based on their MELD score at admission. We also aim to study prognostication in cirrhotic patients using MELD scores at admission. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Medical Department of Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar from 17/10/2019 to 17/4/2020. A total of 100 patients were observed. Investigations required for the calculation of the MELD score were done from the hospital laboratory. Admitted patients were followed for study outcome in-hospital mortality and length of hospital stay for at least 30 days. All information was noted in the predesigned proforma. Results: One hundred patients were analyzed among which the mean age was 53 years with SD ± 7.11. Forty-two percent were male and 58% were female. In-hospital mortality was observed in 8(8%) while mean hospital stay was 7 days with a standard deviation ± 4.12 in patients presenting with liver cirrhosis mortality was observed in patients with a MELD score of less than 20. However, mortality was 6.89% in patients with a MELD score of 20-29 and 42.85 % in those with a MELD score of more than 30. Conclusion: The frequency of in-hospital mortality was 8% and the mean length of hospital stay was 7± 4.12 days in patients with liver cirrhosis. For patients with higher MELD scores, the hospital stay and mortality increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a list of academic research papers related to optimal power flow (OPF) in power systems. The papers cover various topics, including the use of different optimization algorithms, the integration of renewable energy sources, and the application of flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices. The papers come from a diverse range of authors and institutions, including researchers from Pakistan, China, Saudi Arabia, and other countries. The document provides a valuable resource for library patrons conducting research on OPF and related topics in power systems. [Extracted from the article]

Nanoslits have various applications, including localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR)-based nanodevices, optical biosensors, superfocusing, high-efficiency refractive index sensors and chip-based protein detection. In this study, the effect of substrates on the optical properties of gold nanoslits placed in free space is discussed; for this purpose, glass BK7 and Al 2 O 3 are used as substrates and the wavelength of incident light is supposed to be 650 nm. The optical properties, power flow and electric field enhancement for gold nanoslits are investigated by using the finite element method (FEM) in COMSOL Multiphysics software. The effect of polarization of an incident electromagnetic wave as it propagates from a gold nanoslit is also analyzed. As special case, the effect of glass and alumina substrate on magnetic field, power flow and electric field enhancement is discussed. The goal of this research is to investigate the phenomenon of power flow and electric field enhancement. The study of power flow in gold nanoslits provides valuable insights into the behavior of light at the nanoscale and offers opportunities for developing novel applications in the field of nanophotonics and plasmonics. The consequences of this study show the significance of gold nanoslits as optical nanosensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromium (Cr), due to its greater contamination in aquifers and distinct eco-toxic impacts, is of greater environmental concern. This study aimed to synthesize nanocomposites of almond shells biochar (BC) with zerovalent bismuth and/or copper (Bi0/BC, Cu0/BC, and Bi0–Cu0/BC) for the removal of Cr from aqueous solution. The synthesized nanocomposites were investigated using various characterization techniques such as XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, and EDX. The Cr removal potential by the nanocomposites was explored under different Cr concentrations (25–100 mg/L), adsorbent doses (0.5–2.0 g/L), solution pH (2–8), and contact time (10–160 min). The above-mentioned advanced techniques verified successful formation of Bi0/Cu0 and their composite with BC. The synthesized nanocomposites were highly effective in the removal of Cr. The Bi0–Cu0/BC nano-biocomposites showed higher Cr removal efficiency (92%) compared to Cu0/BC (85%), Bi0/BC (76%), and BC (67%). The prepared nanocomposites led to effective Cr removal at lower Cr concentrations (25 mg/L) and acidic pH (4.0). The Cr solubility changes with pH, resulting in different degrees of Cr removal by Bi0–Cu0/BC, with Cr(VI) being more soluble and easier to adsorb at low pH levels and Cr(III) being less soluble and more difficult to adsorb at high pH levels. The experimental Cr adsorption well fitted with the Freundlich adsorption isotherm model (R2 > 0.99) and pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Among the prepared nanocomposites, the Bi0–Cu0/BC showed greater stability and reusability. It was established that the as-synthesized Bi0–Cu0/BC nano-biocomposite showed excellent adsorption potential for practical Cr removal from contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The risk assessment of trace elements has received substantial attention for the achievement of UN Sustainable Developmental Goals (UN-SDGs). The present study aimed to evaluate health and ecological risks associated with trace element accumulation in Brassica oleracea under wastewater irrigations from three different areas. This study, for the first time, compared the pros and cons of mixed water crop irrigation (wastewater with fresh/groundwater). A pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the buildup of eight trace elements (As, Cu, Cd, Mn, Fe, Pb, Ni and Zn) in soil and B. oleracea plants irrigated with wastewater alone and mixed with fresh/groundwater. Specific ecological [degree of contamination (Cd), potential ecological risk index (PERI), pollution load index (PLI), geo-accumulation index (Igeo)], phytoaccumulation [bioconcentration factor (BCF) and transfer factor (TF)] and health risk models [chronic daily intake (CDI), hazard quotient (HQ), cancer risk (CR)] were applied to assess the overall contamination of trace elements in the soil–plant–human system. Moreover, these indices were compared with the literature data. The concentration of Cd, Fe and Mn exceeded the threshold limits of 10, 500 and 200 mg kg−1, respectively, for agricultural soil. Overall, all the irrigation waters caused significant pollution load in soil indicating high ecological risk (Cd > 24, PERI > 380, Igeo > 5, PLI > 2). Not all the mixing treatments caused a reduction in trace element buildup in soil. The mixing of wastewater-1 with either groundwater or freshwater increased trace element levels in the soil as well as risk indices compared to wastewater alone. The BCF and TF values were > 1, respectively, for 66% and 7% treatments. Trace element concentration in plants and associated health risk were minimized in mixed wastewater treatments. There were 22% and 32% reduction in HQ and CR when wastewater was mixed with freshwater and 29% and 8% when mixed with groundwater. Despite total reduction, a great variation in % change in risk indices was observed with respect to the area of wastewater collection. Therefore, mixed water irrigation may be a good management strategy, but its recommendation depends on soil properties and composition of waters used for mixing. Moreover, it is recommended that the freshwater and wastewater of the particular area may be continuously monitored to avoid potential associated health hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation of thin accretion disc surrounding the Einstein‐ Euler‐ Heisenberg‐ Anti‐ de Sitter black hole is demonstrated. Additionally, the black hole event horizons and compute their effective potential and equations of motion is analyzed. The specific energy, specific angular momentum, and specific angular velocity of the particles that move in circular orbits above the thin accretion disk are obtained. Also, the effects of parameters of the Einstein‐ Euler‐ Heisenberg‐ Anti De sitter black hole on specific angular velocity, specific heat energy, and specific angular momentum, have been discussed in detail. The positions of the innermost stable circular orbits and illustrate the effective potential are displayed. Furthermore, the circular orbits of black hole are obtained numerically and locates the position of the innermost stable circular orbit and event horizon. Also, the Gamma ray burst emitted from the Einstein Euler Heisenberg Anti de sitter black hole is studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chiltan formation is a potential hydrocarbon-producing reservoir in the Indus Basin, Pakistan. However, its diagenetic alterations and heterogeneous behavior lead to significant challenges in accurately characterizing the reservoir and production performance. This manuscript aims to utilize six carbonate core samples of the Chiltan limestone to conduct an in-depth analysis of the diagenetic impacts on reservoir quality. The comprehensive formation evaluation was carried out through thin-section analysis, SEM-EDS, and FTIR investigation, as well as plug porosity and permeability measurements under varying stress conditions. In result, petrography revealed three microfacies of intraclastic packestone (MF1), bioclastic pelliodal packestone (MF2), and bioclastic ooidal grainstone (MF3), with distinct diagenetic features and micro-nano fossil assemblages. The MF1 microfacies consist of bioclasts, ooids, pellets, and induced calcite, while the MF2 microfacies contain micrite cemented peloids, algae, and gastropods. Although, the MF3 grainstone microfacies contains key features of bioclasts, milliods, bivalves, echinoderms, and branchiopods with intense micritization. Diagenesis has a significant impact on petrophysical properties, leading to increased reservoir heterogeneity. The specified depositional environment exposed the alteration of the Chiltan formation during distinct diagenetic phases in marine, meteoric, and burial settings. Marine diagenesis involves biogenic carbonates and micro-nano fossils, while meteoric diagenesis involves mineral dissolution, reprecipitation, secondary porosity, compaction, cementation, and stylolite formation. Pore morphology and mineralogy reveal a complex pore network within the formation, including a micro-nano pore structure, inter–intra particle, moldic, vuggy, and fenestral pores with variations in shape, connectivity, and distribution. Various carbonate mineral phases in the formation samples were analyzed, including the calcite matrix and dolomite crystals, while silica, calcite, and clay minerals were commonly observed cement types in the analysis. The core samples analyzed showed poor reservoir quality, with porosity values ranging from 2.02% to 5.31% and permeability values from 0.264 mD to 0.732 mD, with a standard deviation of 1.21. Stress sensitivity was determined using Klinkenberg-corrected permeability at increasing pore pressure conditions, which indicated around 22%–25% reduction in the measured gas permeability and 7% in Klinkenberg permeability due to increasing the net confining stress. In conclusion, the Chiltan formation possesses intricate reservoir heterogeneity and varied micropore structures caused by diagenesis and depositional settings. The formation exhibits nonuniform pore geometry and low petrophysical properties caused by the diverse depositional environment and various minerals and cement types that result in a low-quality reservoir. Stress sensitivity further decreases the permeability with varying stress levels, emphasizing the need of stress effects in reservoir management. The results of this study provide a solid foundation in reservoir characterization and quality assessment that has implications for predicting fluid flow behavior, providing insight into geological evolution and its impact on reservoir quality and leading to improving resource exploration and production strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 90-day feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of phytase supplemented Distiller's Dried Grains with Soluble (DDGS) based diet on the production performance, tissue composition, nutrient digestibility and activity of anti-oxidant enzymes in the gills of mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) juveniles. Six experimental diets were formulated to contain increasing levels of supplemental phytase, 0 (D1), 250 (D2), 500 (D3), 750 (D4), 1000 (D5), and 1250 (D6) phytase (FTU/kg). Each experimental diet was randomly assigned and fed three times daily to triplicate groups of 180 fish. Significant increase in body weight gain and specific growth rate, feed conversion and protein efficiency ratios of groups fed up to 750 FTU/kg were observed. Broken line analysis of Specific Growth Rate showed that the optimal dietary phytase level of mrigal juveniles is 750 FTU /kg or higher than this dose. Results among protein, lipid, moisture, ash and P contents of whole body, muscle, liver and viscera were not significantly different as phytase level increased from 250 FTU/kg to 1250 FTU/kg (D2 to D6). It was concluded that phytase at the rate of 750 FTU /kg is the optimum dose for the enhanced growth in juvenile mrigal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of cadmium (Cd) and nickel (Ni) toxicity on embryonic and larval development of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and Ctenopharyngodon idella was determined. Different concentrations (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 mg/l) of Cd and Ni were administered in separate trials to the fish after spawning to 168 h post-hatching (hph) period. Cd was more toxic to the embryos of both fish, as highest embryonic mortality (%) of H. molitrix and C. idella was observed. However, Ni was found to be more toxic to the larvae of H. molitrix and C. Idella with highest larval mortality at 168 hph. However, Ni was found to be more toxic to the larvae of H. molitrix and C. idella with highest larval mortality at 168 hph. The study found a significant effect of heavy metal and metal concentration for causing deformities in H. molitrix. However, in C. idella only the effect of metal concentration on fish deformities was significant. Furthermore, Ni was found to cause more deformities as compared to Cd in H. molitrix. While Cd was found to cause more deformities as compared to Ni in C. idella. In conclusion, the study suggests that Cd and Ni may cause serious deformities in fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop growth models can be valuable tools for researchers, academia, extension educators, and policy makers/planners for the evaluation of sustainable and long-term husbandry practices. Determining the optimum sowing window, which can be determined using crop growth models, is imperative under changing climate conditions. Thus, the main objectives herein were to 1) assess the performance of the cropping system model-crop environment resource synthesis-maize model for hybrids and sowing dates in the spring and autumn, and 2) determine the optimum sowing window in 15 districts of Punjab, Pakistan. In the spring experiment, 3 hybrids (P-33M15, M-DK6525, and S-NK8441) were planted in the main plots and then on 5 different sowing dates (January 15th, February 5th, February 25th, March 15th, and April 5th), they were planted in the subplots. In the autumn experiment, 3 hybrids (P-30R50, M-DK6714, and S-NK6621) were planted in the main plots and then on 5 different sowing dates (June 15th, July 5th, July 25th, August 15th, and September 5th), they were planted in the subplots. Model calibration and evaluation results were better in the spring and autumn. Performance of the model was good for the grain yield in the autumn (mean percentage difference (MPD): 7.47% to 8.90%) compared to the spring (MPD: 9.42% to 11.72%). Model evaluation was good for the early sowing dates (January 15th and February 5th) (error range: 6.26% to 9.65%) compared to the delayed dates (February 25th to April 5th) (error range: 9.34 to 14.91%). In the autumn, the model showed better performance for the delayed sowing dates (February 25th and August 15th) (error range: 5.22% to 9.43%) compared to the early dates (June 15th and July 5th) (error range: 8.56% to 11.27%). The model simulated good growth, development, grain yield, and yield components in the spring and autumn and of both 2016 and 2017. For the model application simulation of data over the long-term (1980 to 2017), the optimum sowing window in the spring was January 15th to March 5th and for the autumn it was July 23rd to August 27th for the 15 districts in Punjab, Pakistan. Simulation of the sowing dates for the whole year indicated that the spring was better compared to the autumn for obtaining the maximum grain yield. The results of the model were in line with the recommendations of the agricultural extension department for the sowing window for spring and autumn maize. It is therefore suggested that farmers should complete the sowing of spring and autumn maize within the sowing window to attain a higher yield of maize in arid and semiarid areas of Punjab, Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity and cadmium (Cd) contamination of soil are serious environmental issues threatening food security. This study investigated the role of salicylic acid (SA) and potassium (K) in enhancing the resilience of quinoa against the combined stress of salinity and Cd. Quinoa plants were grown under NaCl (0, 200 mM) and Cd (0, 100 µM) stress, with the addition of 0.1 mM SA and 10 mM K, separately or in combination. The joint stress of Cd and NaCl caused >50% decrease in plant growth, chlorophyll contents, and stomatal conductance compared to the control plants. The higher accumulation of Na and Cd reduced the uptake of K in quinoa tissues. The joint stress of salinity and Cd caused an 11-fold increase in hydrogen peroxide and 13-fold increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances contents, and caused a 61% decrease in membrane stability. An external supply of 0.1 mM SA and 10 mM K helped plants to better adapt to salinity and Cd stress with less of a reduction in plant biomass (shoot 19% and root 24%) and less accumulation of Na and Cd in plant tissues. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were enhanced by 11-fold, 10-fold, 7.7-fold, and 7-fold, respectively, when SA and K were applied together to the plants subjected to the joint stress of Cd and salinity. Based on the values of the bioconcentration factor (>1), the translocation factor (<1), and the higher tolerance index, it was clear that Cd-contaminated, salty soils could be stabilized with quinoa under the combined supply of SA and K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride toxicity is a leading cause of environmental pollution and is particularly considered as a phytotoxic element for cereal crops. Accumulation of high amount of fluoride in the soil alters the metabolism of plants and reduces their growth. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to understand the effects of sodium fluoride (NaF) on the plant growth and the amelioration of its toxic effects by the application of citric acid on the two cultivars of maize, Pak Afgoi (salt tolerant) and Pearl (salt sensitive). NaF in a concentration of 100ppm and 200ppm was applied to one week old seedlings. Citric acid (100 mgL-1 and 150 mgL-1) was applied as a foliar spray after two weeks of application of NaF salinity stress. The data regarding shoot length, shoot, root fresh and dry weight, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, ions and ash contents were collected after fifteen days of citric acid application. Our results showed that citric acid 150 mgL-1had a positive effect on the growth of maize plants and had reduced the toxic effects of sodium fluoride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minerals play a dynamic role in plant growth and development. However, most of these mineral nutrients are unavailable to plants due to their presence in fixed forms, which causes significant losses in crop production. An effective strategy to overcome this challenge is using mineral solubilizing bacteria, which can convert insoluble forms of minerals into soluble ones that plants can quickly assimilate, thus enhancing their availability in nutrient-depleted soils. The main objective of the present study was to isolate and characterize mineral solubilizing rhizobacteria and to assess their plant growth-promoting potential for Rhodes grass. Twenty-five rhizobacterial strains were isolated on a nutrient agar medium. They were characterized for solubilization of insoluble minerals (phosphate, potassium, zinc, and manganese), indole acetic acid production, enzymatic activities, and various morphological traits. The selected strains were also evaluated for their potential to promote the growth of Rhodes grass seedlings. Among tested strains, eight strains demonstrated strong qualitative and quantitative solubilization of insoluble phosphate. Strain MS2 reported the highest phosphate solubilization index, phosphate solubilization efficiency, available phosphorus concentration, and reduction in medium pH. Among tested strains, 75% were positive for zinc and manganese solubilization, and 37.5% were positive for potassium solubilization. Strain MS2 demonstrated the highest quantitative manganese solubilization, while strains MS7 and SM4 reported the highest solubilization of zinc and potassium through acidifying their respective media. The strain SM4 demonstrated the most increased IAA production in the presence and absence of L-tryptophan. The majority of strains were positive for various enzymes, including urease, catalase protease, and amylase activities. However, these strains were negative for coagulase activity except strains SM7 and MS7. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing, six strains, namely, SM2, SM4, SM5, MS1, MS2, and MS4, were identified as Bacillus cereus, while strains SM7 and MS7 were identified as Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Staphylococcus haemolyticus. These strains significantly improved growth attributes of Rhodes grass, such as root length, shoot length, and root and shoot fresh and dry biomasses compared to the uninoculated control group. The present study highlights the significance of mineral solubilizing and enzyme-producing rhizobacterial strains as potential bioinoculants to enhance Rhodes grass growth under mineral-deficient conditions sustainably. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel (Ni) is an essential element for plants; however, excessive uptake of Ni causes phytotoxicity in plants. The phytotoxic effects of Ni on the growth of quinoa and the underlaying mechanisms for Ni tolerance and phytoremediation are unknown. Hence, the present study investigated Ni tolerance and accumulation potential of two quinoa genotypes (Puno and Vikinga). Both genotypes were exposed to Ni (0, 100, 200, 300, and 400 μM) in half-strength Hoagland nutrient solution for three weeks. Results revealed that shoot and root lengths, biomass, stomatal conductance, and chlorophyll contents were decreased with the increase of Ni concentration. Excessive uptake of Ni resulted in the limited uptake of K by root and its translocation to shoot. Ni caused oxidative stress in plants by overproduction of H2O2 leading to lipid peroxidation of cell membranes. Genotype Puno showed greater tolerance to Ni than Vikinga based on tolerance index, lower bioconcentration factor, and translocation factor. Greater tolerance of Puno was mainly attributed to improved physiological responses and amelioration of oxidative stress by induction of antioxidant enzymes such as peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). It was revealed through multivariate analysis that Ni had strong negative correlations with growth and physiological attributes and positive associations with oxidative stress attributes. The study demonstrated genotypic variation in response to varying Ni concentrations and Puno performed better than Vikinga for phytostabilization of Ni-contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a globally prevalent condition that leads to infertility in women. While environmental factors contribute to PCOS, maternal genetics also play a significant role. Currently, there is no definitive test for identifying predisposition to PCOS. Hence, our objective is to discover novel maternal genetic risk factors for PCOS by investigating the genomes of patients from Pakistan. Methods: We utilized Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to sequence the complete mitochondrial DNA of three PCOS patients. Subsequently, we employed MitoTIP (Mitochondrial tRNA Informatics Predictor) and PON-mtt-RNA tools to identify variations in the mitochondrial DNA. Our analysis focused on the genes MT-RNR1, MT-RNR2, MT-ATP6, MT-TL2, and MT-CYTB, which displayed common variations in all three genomes. Additionally, we observed individual variations. The D-loop region exhibited the highest frequency of mutations, followed by the non-coding regions of RNR1 and RNR2 genes. Moreover, we detected frameshift mutations in the mitochondrially encoded NADH Dehydrogenase 2 (MT-ND2) and mitochondrially encoded NADH Dehydrogenase 5 (ND5) genes within individual genomes. Results: Our analysis unveiled six regions with common variations in the mitochondrial DNA of all three PCOS patients. Notably, the MT-RNR1, MTRNR2, MT-ATP6, MT-TL2, and MT-CYTB genes exhibited these variations. Additionally, we identified individual variations in the mitochondrial DNA. The D-loop region displayed the highest mutation frequency, followed by the noncoding regions of RNR1 and RNR2 genes. Furthermore, frameshift mutations were detected in the MT-ND2 and ND5 genes within individual genomes. Conclusion: Through our study, we have identified variations in mitochondrial DNA that may be associated with the development of PCOS and have the potential to serve as predisposition tests. Our findings highlight the presence of novel mutations in the MT-RNR1, MT-RNR2, MT-ATP6, MT-TL2, and MTCYTB genes, as well as frameshift mutations in the MT-ND2 and ND5 genes. Pathogenicity analysis indicated that most variants were likely to result in benign cysts. However, the frameshift mutations in the ND2 gene were associated with a high risk of complications and pathogenicity in PCOS. This is the first report identifying these mutations and their association with PCOS, contributing to our understanding of the genetic factors underlying the condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mn/TiO2, Mn-Ce/TiO2, and Sb-modified Mn-Ce-Sbx/TiO2 catalysts were prepared by the impregnation method. The catalysts were characterized by BET, XRD, XPS, SEM, NH3-TPD, FTIR, TG-DSC, H2-TPR, and the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) activity, and investigated by SO2, and H2O resistance between 90 °C and 220 °C. Results showed that the molar ratio of Sb/Mn is 0.2, the catalytic activity of Mn-Ce-Sb0.2/TiO2 can reach 94% of NO conversion rate at 120 °C. Meanwhile, Mn-Ce-Sb0.2/TiO2 has the best SO2 and H2O resistance. Characterization results demonstrated that the modification of Sb can decrease the crystallinity of the Mn element, while Sb can inhibit the formation of sulfate and reduce the poisonous effect of SO2 on the catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is the major mental illness which causes along with loss of interest in daily life, a feeling of hopelessness, appetite or weight changes, anger and irritability. Due to the hepatic first-pass metabolism, the absolute bioavailability of fluvoxamine (FVM) after oral administration is about 50%. By avoiding the pre-systemic metabolism, nasal delivery would boost bioavailability of FVM. Additionally, the absorption is anticipated to occur more quickly than it would via the oral route because of the existence of microvilli and high vasculature. A nonionic surfactant, cholesterol and an arachidonic acid-carboxymethyl chitosan (AA-CMCS) conjugate were used to develop FVM-loaded novasomes. To investigate the effects of surfactant concentration, AA-CMCS conjugate concentration and stirring speed on the novasomes' characteristics, a Box–Behnken design was used. The dependent variables chosen were zeta potential, polydispersity index and particle size. The AA-CMCS conjugate was confirmed by 1H-NMR and FTIR. Using Design Expert software (version 7; Stat-Ease Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA), novasomes were further optimized. The chosen optimal formulation (NAC8) was made up of AA-CMCS conjugate, Span 60 and cholesterol. Particle size, zeta potential and PDI values for NAC8 formulation were 101 nm, −35 mV and 0.263, respectively. The NAC8 formulation's DSC and TGA analysis demonstrated that the medication had been uniformly and amorphously distributed throughout the novasomes. The NAC8 formulation showed 99% and 90% FVM release and permeation, respectively, and the novasome adherence time was 24 h. An improved antidepressant effect along with five-fold increase in bioavailability of FVM was observed after trans-nasal administration of NAC8 formulation compared to the reference commercially available Flumin® tablets. FVM-loaded novasomes administered via the nasal route may therefore constitute an advancement in the management of depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most common complications of the gastric ulcer are hemorrhage, perforation, ulcer penetration into adjacent organs, and gastric outlet obstruction which can be fatal if untreated. The present study aimed to improve gastric ulcer complications by using naturally occurring compound curcumin (Cur) and its modified complex with Eudragit E-100 (SD-Cur-Eud2). Solubility of Cur was enhanced by using first-generation solid dispersion (SD) technique and confirmed by physicochemical analysis. Optimized SD-Cur-Eud2 was used for the compression of gastroretentive raft tablets (SD-Cur-Eud2-RT) by direct compression method, and all quality control tests, in vitro floating time, raft resilience, in vitro dissolution studies, and dissolution efficiency were also observed. Stability studies were performed to estimate shelf life by using Rgui software. All the confirmatory tests of SD-Cur-Eud2-RT were found within limits according to pharmacopeial standards. 60–70% release of Cur within 6 h in acidic medium (pH = 1.2), 40–65% permeation on rat gastric mucosa, and 68% ulcer inhibition in Indomethacin® (IND) induced gastric ulcer. Furthermore, cumulative amount of diffused (CADD), flux (Jss) and permeability coefficient (Kp) of Cur were six–tenfold increased with shelf life of 23 months. Fortunately, SD-Cur-Eud2-RT (50 mg/kg once daily) tablets exhibited better therapeutic effect on gastric ulcers in terms of ulcer index 2.5 ± 0.2 as compared to Omeprazole®. SD-Cur-Eud2-RT may be considered an alternative of already available proton-pump inhibitors for the treatment of gastric ulcers with minimum side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inter-relationship of various body measurements with regard to length in Clarias gariepinus, reared in cemented ponds was initiated from March-September 2021 by using 200 individuals (110 males and 90 females). These specimens of experimental fish ranged from 14.4 to 37.0 cm in length and from 44.7 to 985 g in weight and were obtained from the stock marinated in the cemented ponds of the University of Sindh, Jamshoro. At 5cm intervals, samples of fish were separated into groups. Fish body dimensions, including fish head length, fin measurements and the diameter of fish eyes and mouth gape were examined. No significant difference between male and female was noted; though, there was a small variation in the percentages of lengths such as standard and anal fin, which were greater in females (85.0 and 15.3 percent, respectively) than in males (83.2 and 10.6 percent, respectively). The length of the head, the width, the pectoral fin, the pelvic fin, and the dorsal fin were all bigger in males (90.76, 70.31, 11.28, 11.97, 4.95, and 4.51%) than in females (90.68, 25.64, 62.71, 10.73, 8.8, 35, and 3.3%), but the dorsal fin was smaller in both sexes. eye diameter was shown to be greater in females (3.88%) than in males (2.08). The dorsal, pectoral, pelvic, anal, and caudal rays of five distinct fins of both sexes were counted (male and female). The meristic counts of male and female Clarias gariepinus from cement ponds did not differ significantly (P>0.05). Finally, it was concluded from the inter-relationship of various body measurements and meristic analysis that there was a single homogenous population of Clarias gariepinus, available in ponds. The culture of this species may produce a significant role in generating revenue in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Target detection in high-contrast, multi-object images and movies is challenging. This difficulty results from different areas and objects/people having varying pixel distributions, contrast, and intensity properties. This work introduces a new region-focused feature detection (RFD) method to tackle this problem and improve target detection accuracy. The RFD method divides the input image into several smaller ones so that as much of the image as possible is processed. Each of these zones has its own contrast and intensity attributes computed. Deep recurrent learning is then used to iteratively extract these features using a similarity measure from training inputs corresponding to various regions. The target can be located by combining features from many locations that overlap. The recognized target is compared to the inputs used during training, with the help of contrast and intensity attributes, to increase accuracy. The feature distribution across regions is also used for repeated training of the learning paradigm. This method efficiently lowers false rates during region selection and pattern matching with numerous extraction instances. Therefore, the suggested method provides greater accuracy by singling out distinct regions and filtering out misleading rate-generating features. The accuracy, similarity index, false rate, extraction ratio, processing time, and others are used to assess the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The proposed RFD improves the similarity index by 10.69%, extraction ratio by 9.04%, and precision by 13.27%. The false rate and processing time are reduced by 7.78% and 9.19%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]