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The genus Heterobasidion Bref. belongs to the order Russulales and comprises several pathogenic species known for inducing root rot and heart rot in gymnospermic trees. In Pakistan, the fungal flora is still not well documented particularly the wood-decaying poroid fungi. This paper examines specimens of the Heterobasidion genus collected during a trip to the Hindu Kush Mountains in the Swat district of Pakistan. These samples were evaluated morpho-anatomically, and phylogenetically. Moreover, the ITS rDNA sequence data was analyzed using three different methods: maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian analyses. Our analyses revealed the existence of a novel species, Heterobasidion variiporum S. Hussain, M. Nisar & Y.W. Lim sp. nov., within the H. annosum complex, as well as two species belonging to the H. insulare complex, namely Heterobasidion tibeticum Y.C. Dai, Jia J. Chen & Korhonen, as a new record and Heterobasidion linzhiense Y.C. Dai & Korhonen as previously identified species from the country. The study provides detailed descriptions of the species, and present a comprehensive comparison with the known species in the genus. This research expands the list of wood-decaying fungi in Pakistan, providing some useful information for forest pathology and management.

In the bustling metropolis of tomorrow, where pollution levels are a constant concern, a team of innovative researchers embarked on a quest to revolutionize air quality monitoring. In pursuit of this objective, this study embarked on the synthesis of indium oxide materials via a straightforward solvothermal method purposely for NO2detection. Through meticulous analysis of their gas-sensing capabilities, a remarkable discovery came to light. Among the materials tested, In2O3(IO-2) exhibited exceptional sensitivity toward 100 ppm of NO2gas at an optimal working temperature of 150 °C and even at room temperature (RT). The response value reached an impressive 12.69, showcasing the material’s outstanding capability to detect NO2gas even at 100 ppb. Further investigation revealed a significant linear relationship (R2= 0.89454) and commendable reproducibility, highlighting IO-2’s potential as a reliable and stable sensing material. Moreover, machine learning techniques were utilized to predict the response characteristics of the sensing materials to various environmental conditions, concentrations of target gases, and operational parameters. This predictive capability can guide the design of more efficient and robust gas sensors, ultimately contributing to improved safety and environmental monitoring. As the demand for efficient, portable, and eco-friendly electronics continues to grow, these findings contribute to the development of sustainable and high-performance materials that can meet the needs of modern technology.

AbstractThe MT-II is a small spherical tokamak that is currently under construction at the Pakistan Tokamak Plasma Research Institute. Wall conditioning of the MT-II vacuum vessel (VV) is an essential step to achieve a good quality vacuum for plasma experiments. This study presents an overview of the wall-conditioning techniques implemented on the MT-II VV, including baking and glow discharge cleaning (GDC). Prior to wall conditioning, the system is checked via a helium leak test machine and residual gas analyzer (RGA) to identify and remove leaks. The VV walls are baked at ~180 °C to get rapid desorption of water vapors and other impurities. After the baking process, the partial pressure of most of the carbon- and oxygen-containing impurities is reduced. In particular, the partial pressure of water vapors is reduced by 93%. Consequently, the total leak and outgassing rate is significantly reduced. To further improve the vacuum condition in the vessel, hydrogen GDC is carried out. The fill hydrogen pressure and anode voltage are optimized to get a stable glow discharge. The RGA scan shows that GDC reduces the partial pressure of H2O, O2, and CO2by 57%, 63%, and 51%, respectively. The results signify that baking and GDC are effective techniques for wall conditioning of the MT-II VV.

AbstractOrganizations have prioritized green innovation (GI) following the increasing stakeholder pressure (SP) on sustainable growth through megaproject social responsibility (MSR). A sustainable megaproject delivery involves three essential determinants. However, few studies have focused on the complicated relationships between these determinants and megaproject success (MPS). Hence, this study examines the relationships between SP, GI, and MPS by considering the key mediating role of MSR. Data were collected from 245 respondents in Pakistan’s construction industries. The study tests the hypotheses using partial least squares structural equation modeling that SP positively influences both MPS and GI, and that MSR partially mediates this relationship. The findings suggest that stakeholder pressure plays a crucial role in promoting MPS and GI through the adoption of socially responsible practices. These findings add to the body of knowledge on the direct and indirect effects of SP and MPS and SP and GI, which have been inconsistent in previous research. In practice, engineering managers can increase GI and MPS by focusing more on SP and MSR.

Cannabis sativa(C. sativa) is a widespread medicinal plant used for humans and cattles infectious diseases. The current study is carried out to assess phytochemical, antimicrobial, antioxidant, α-amylase inhibition and cytotoxic activity of the Cannabis sativaplant. An appropriate amount of phytochemicals like tannins, flavonoids, lycopene, and β-carotenes is found in C. sativaplant during the phytochemical screening. Among these phytochemicals of C. sativaplant, tannin shows outstanding activity. The plant extracts are assessed for antimicrobial activity against different seven bacterial strains. Notably, the stem part of C. sativais found to exhibit higher antimicrobial potential than root and leaf. Among the extracts, the antioxidant assays (evaluated through % inhibition of linoleic acid peroxidation assessment) of n-hexane extract of leaf part was highest (80.70%) compared to the others. The plant also contains a potent α-amylase inhibitory potential, the root extract shows maximum inhibition of α-amylase. The cytotoxic effect [evaluated through hemolytic activity as (%) lysis of RBCs against human erythrocytes] of the plant extracts is found insignificant ranging from 1.97 to 5.88. The plant C. sativakeeps a significant amount of bioactive phenolic combinations accompanied by high antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

Purpose: Arsenic (As) contamination in groundwater and soil affects the quality of plant-based foods, while zinc (Zn) deficiency in agricultural soils leads to global zinc malnutrition. Addressing these issues is both crucial and urgent, especially for wheat production. This study compared Zn application methods for decreasing grain As and increasing grain Zn concentrations in two Zn-biofortified wheat cultivars, Akbar-2019 and Zincol-2016. Methods: The experiment involved growing the cultivars in pots and applying Zn through different methods: control, seed priming with distilled water and 6 mM ZnSO4solution, soil application at 0 and 8 mg Zn kg⁻¹, foliar sprays of distilled water and 0.05% Zn (w/v) at booting and heading, and all combinations of these application methods. Throughout the growth period, the pots were irrigated with As-contaminated water (1.0 mg As L⁻¹). Results: Zinc application significantly increased chlorophyll and carotenoid contents, and dry matter yields. Moreover, there was an increase in Zn and phosphorus (P) concentrations in grains, along with a rise in the estimated dietary intake (EDI) of Zn. This was associated with a simultaneous decrease in As concentrations in various plant parts, including grains, and a decrease in the EDI of As. The most significant increase in grain yield and grain Zn accumulation, coupled with the most notable decrease in grain As concentration, was observed with the combined application of Zn through seed priming, soil application, and foliar spray. Conclusion: Soil application and foliar spray of Zn mitigate As contamination in wheat grains under As-contaminated irrigation, while also ensuring agronomic Zn biofortification.

Low yields of crops, especially rice, are caused by climate change and environmental stress concerns such as drought, temperature fluctuations, and salinity in arid and semi-arid locations around the globe. Rice is one of the essential crops for human consumption and one of the most commonly farmed cereals on the planet earth, but its growth is severely retarded by excessive salt, which influences rice development and production, leading to economic loss. Salt stress induces osmotic stress and ionic toxicity in rice by altering the environment, leading to water deprivation and accumulation of toxic ions, thereby triggering specific physiological and molecular responses in the rice plants. Many factors may affect rice production and cereal quality via its interaction with salinity. This review focuses on some influential factors (photosynthesis, osmosis, micro and macronutrients, microbial flora, rice growth, development, and genes) that may reduce rice production in saline soils. The review also describes the responsive mechanism of rice to salinity and the genetic susceptibility of rice. In light of the challenges posed by the growing global population and limited agricultural land, it is imperative to consider the influential factors discussed in this review, along with genetic susceptibility to improve rice production in terms of quantity and quality under saline soil conditions.

To overcome drastic increase in rare-earth permanent magnet cost, avoid the requirements of brushes, slip rings, and eliminate gear-box mechanism, a novel magnet-less dual electrical and dual mechanical port wound field-excited flux switching generator (DEDMP-WFEFSG) for direct-drive counter rotating wind turbine (D2CRWT) application is proposed in this article. The proposed DEDMP-WFEFSG encompasses a stator with dual non-overlapped armature and toroidal field excitation windings; thus, offers reduced overhang and makes the design compact. To ease the design process, lumped parametric magnetic circuit model (LPMCM) for one magnetic pole is formulated. To evaluate the LPMCM design, finite element analysis (FEA) study is undertaken in co-rotation and counter rotation with focus on power distribution between the inner and outer ports. From detailed analysis, it is evident that in comparison with the inner port, the outer port machine offers better average torque, power factor, and efficiency. Compared with co-rotation, counter rotation shows improved electromagnetic performance. Finally, to validate the LPMCM and FEA based simulation, a prototype is developed and tested with satisfactory results.

Green synthesis has always been the preferred choice for nanoparticles because it uses biological extract from plant sources that are nonhazardous to the environment. Specifically, the physicochemical and optical properties of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) make them economically feasible for various industrial applications. In the present study, ZnO NPs were synthesized by using Gomphrena serrataleaf extract (GS-ZnO NPs). Structural characterization of GS-ZnO NPs was performed by XRD and FTIR. The thermal nature of the GS-ZnO NPs was analyzed by DSC and TGA. The agar disc diffusion technique was used to assay the antimicrobial properties of nanoparticles against pathogenic bacterial strains. The efficiency of photocatalytic degradation was assessed by employing methylene blue (MB) as the test dye, with exposure to sunlight. The observed sizes of the metallic nanoparticles were in the range of 20–30 nm. XRD analyses revealed that the GS-ZnO NPs were hexagonal wurtzite structures. SEM analysis exhibited the spherical morphology of the GS-ZnO NPs. Thermal gravimetric analysis showed various phases of percent weight loss of GS-ZnO NPs within the temperature range of 50–460 °C. A photocatalytic efficiency of 90.5% was achieved after 180 min of sunlight irradiation. G. serrataleaf extract could be used as an efficient reductant and capping material in the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles. These findings on the thermal and antimicrobial properties of GS-ZnO NPs may validate their efficacy in pharmaceutical applications. The photocatalytic dye degradation activity of the nanoparticles was explored to determine their significance in wastewater treatment.

In this paper, a novel dual port counter rotating dual rotor wound field flux switching generator (DPCRDR-WFFSG) is proposed for direct drive counter rotating wind power generation. Mechanism of gearless and brushless counter rotating operation of DPCRDR-WFFSG is discussed and simplified formulation is opted for possible combination of the rotor poles number (${N}_r$). In proposed DPCRDR-WFFSG, dual electrical ports are formed of non-overlapped armature winding having shared toroidal field excitation winding whereas inner and outer rotors act as inner and outer port. These inner and outer port are thoroughly investigated for electromagnetic performance to search out optimum rotor poles combination. The rotor poles combinations are examined under uniform and non-uniform poles and comparatively studied. Based on simplified formulation, various combinations of the rotor pole numbers are searched out and found that under uniform poles operation, ${N}_r = \ 10$ and ${N}_r = \ 14$ offers comparatively better electromagnetic performance whereas in case of non-uniform rotor poles ${N}_r = \ 10/14$ further improves electromagnetic performance. Furthermore, analysis evident that in comparison with the inner port, outer port shows dominant contribution in electromagnetic performance whereas, in comparison with uniform rotor poles, the new approach of adopting non-uniform rotor poles improve electromagnetic performance. It is worth noting that non-uniform rotor poles in inner ports improves efficiency and power factor whereas in outer port, average torque and output power are enhanced. Finally, validity of uniform and non-uniform rotor poles design approach for DPCRDR-WFFSG is verified with four prototype that validated finite element analysis.

The electric vehicles (EVs) charging stations (CSs) at public premises have higher installation and power consumption costs. The potential benefits of public CSs rely on their efficient utilization. However, the conventional charging methods obligate a long waiting time and thereby deteriorate their efficiency with low utilization. This paper suggests a novel fuzzy integer linear programming and a heuristic fuzzy inference approach (FIA) for CSs utilization. The model introduces the underlying fuzzy inference system and a detailed formulation for obtaining the optimal solution. The developed fuzzy inference incorporates the uncertain and independent available power, required state-of-charge, and dwell time from the power grid and EVs domains and correlates them into weighted control variables. The FIA automates the service provision for the EVs with the most urgent requirements by resolving the objective function utilizing the weighted control variables, thereby optimizing the waiting time and the CSs utilization. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed FIA, several case studies were conducted, corresponding to different parking capacities and installations of CSs. Moreover, the simulations were conducted on EVs with varying battery capacities, and their performance was evaluated based on several metrics, including average waiting time, utilization of CSs, fairness, and execution time. The simulation results have confirmed that the effectiveness of the proposed FIA scheduling method is considerably higher than that of the other methods discussed.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper financial technology (FinTech) revolutions are promptly remodelling the worldwide financial industry and facilitating financial inclusion initiatives with the aid of micro-finance institutions. Such hi-tech modifications are anticipated to sell the stableness of the financial system and lessen its predominant actors’ risk-taking behaviour. However, there needs to be more practical proof to guide the effect of financial inclusion based on financial technology on the risky behaviour of South Asia micro-finance institutes. Design/methodology/approach: Therefore, the authors industrialised a fresh index to calculate financial inclusion based on financial technology and empirically measure its position in decreasing the risk-taking approach of micro-finance institutes. The use of numerous robustness examinations endorsed the rationality of the authors’ outcomes. Findings: Z-scoring or standard scoring outcomes of FinInc support the extant studies displaying its incredible connection with economic stability, which interprets as a terrible courting with risky behaviour of micro-finance institutes. Consequently, the authors highlighted the significance of the universality and openness of financial technology solutions in minimising risk of micro-finance institutes. Moreover, the authors concluded that financial technology is greater related to small-size micro-finance institutes. Originality/value: This study currently focusing South Asia, which has not been explored before, and it is the first time to research financial inclusion with Fintech in this area.

The hydroxyapatite (HA) powder is successfully synthesized from calcined eggshell by the hydrothermal reaction method. The colloidal solution made of calcined eggshell powder, tricalcium phosphate powder, and demineralized water is kept in a closed ceramic vessel to perform hydrothermal reactions. For this purpose, different temperatures (700 - 1000 °C) for various time durations (1, 2, and 3 h) are applied to the solution. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) are employed to characterize the prepared powders. The synthesized powders are further assessed in terms of crystalline phase, microstructure, crystallite size, particle size, Ca/P ratio, and crystallinity. In all the reaction products, majorly the HA powders are obtained. The spherical HA grains are found to have a tendency to agglomerate at higher reaction temperatures and times. The applied temperature and heating duration are found to be the crucial parameters that control the properties of the synthesized HA. The HA with the largest crystallite size is obtained from 1000 oC of heating temperature applied for 3 h. However, the HA with high crystallinity is obtained from 800 oC temperature applied for 1 h of time. Non-stoichiometric HAs are obtained from all different reaction temperatures and time durations. Mostly Ca-rich (Ca/P > 1.67) HAs are formed in all powders except the one prepared at 900 ° C, where the formation of Ca-deficient (Ca/P < 1.67) HA is noticed. The near-stoichiometric HA can be produced from 900 oC of reaction temperature applied for 1 h. The study illustrates that HA can be synthesized successfully from chicken eggshell by hydrothermal reaction method in less time by applying high heating temperature.

AbstractThe key objective of this research paper is to estimate the impact of financial literacy, investor’s personality and overconfidence bias on investment decisions by using risk tolerance as a mediator variable. Inclusive finance makes numerous financial products and services accessible and affordable to the micro-finance community, remarkably those absent from the conventional financial system. Financial literacy is a leading factor affecting an individual’s ability to access financial services. This study employed Structural Equation Modelling to investigate whether financial literacy and other personality traits affect investment decisions. The Regression results showed that financial literacy, investors’ personality, and overconfidence bias are significantly relevant to risk tolerance and investment decisions (β = 0.128***, S.D = 0.047, t = 2.746; p < 1%; β0.378***, S.D = 0.051, t = 7.414, p < 1%; β0.269***, S.D = 0.052, t = 5.155, p < 1%; β0.195***, S.D = 0.054, t = 3.619, p < 1%; β0.371***, S.D = 0.055, t = 6.706, p < 1%; β0.195***, S.D = 0.061, t = 3.190, p < 1%). As mediation results showed, risk tolerance plays a significant role in financial literacy, investors’ personality, overconfidence bias, and investment decisions (β = 0.024**, S.D = 0.011, t = 2.15, p < 5%; β = 0.024**, S.D = 0.011, t = 2.17, p < 5%; β = 0.047**, S.D = 0.018, t = 2.55, p < 5%). The implications of this study also provide valued recommendations for regulatory institutions to improve financial inclusion in the emerging market context.

Disability from injuries and diseases is a global problem affecting a large population; however, due to a lack of therapists and labor-intensive procedures, only a few benefits from rehabilitation. Robots can assist therapists in treating many patients simultaneously, but the existing solutions need improvements in their mechanism, actuation, and control. This article presents a four-link parallel end-effector robot for wrist joint rehabilitation. The proposed robot employs biomimetic muscle actuators (BMA) that provide intrinsic compliance to the robotic system. A fuzzy-based model is developed to identify the nonlinear nature of BMAs. The stiffness-observer learns subject-specific stiffness, which is used to modify the robot reference trajectories. An adaptive controller uses the fuzzy model and stiffness-observer and simultaneously controls the four BMAs to provide three degrees of rotational freedom to the robot end-effector. The feasibility of the robot mechanism and the controller was evaluated through proof of concept experiments conducted with three unimpaired human subjects. It was found that the controller was able to guide the robot–human system on the commanded trajectories in the presence of parallel actuation of compliant and nonlinear BMAs. Furthermore, the controller was also able to modify the commanded trajectories in the higher stiffness regions of the wrist workspace.

The hydroxyapatite (HA) powder has been successfully prepared by using calcined Indian clam seashells through the hydrothermal technique. Initially, the clam seashell is calcined at 900 ℃ to achieve calcium oxide (CaO). The obtained seashell-based calcium oxide is mixed properly with pre-determined tri-calcium phosphate in demineralized water. Further, the colloidal solution is heat-treated at a temperature of 1000 ℃ for various time durations (1 h, 1:30 h, 1:45 h, 2 h, 2:30 h, and 3 h) to perform the hydrothermal reactions. Quantification of HA and different phases present in the synthesized powders is carried out with the help of the Rietveld refinement method. The phases, crystallite size, and crystallinity of synthesized powder are evaluated by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. The microstructure of the powder is analyzed through Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). The Ca/P ratio and particle size of the prepared powder are estimated by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and the image analysis technique, respectively. The results indicate that the heating duration of the hydrothermal reaction is a crucial parameter in modifying the various properties, specifically the phase quantity of prepared HA. All six synthesized powders show the presence of the HA phase, along with a few secondary phases in those. Spherical and cylindrical nano-crystals of HA are observed to form. With an increase in time duration, coarsening of crystallite is observed. The average particle size and crystallinity of HA are also noticed to be increased with increased time duration.

This research assesses how smart mobility projects in Finland contribute to sustainability aims. Aims of the projects are reviewed applying a sustainability framework with ten subcategories based on literature. A truth table is generated to assess how the different aspects of sustainability are addressed. The observed differences between projects in addressing sustainability are analyzed in terms of funding sources and between projects conducted in urban and rural areas. The results based on qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) show that environmental, social, and economical dimensions are generally addressed in a balanced manner in smart mobility projects, although some of the subcategories are addressed only in a few projects.

In this article two double-sided Field Excited Linear Flux Switching Machines (FELFSM) are analyzed. Both machines share the same robust and compact stator structure with a modular mover design having different winding configurations namely concentrated and toroidal. The proposed machines have a low-cost owing to the lack of rare earth materials, a high fault-tolerant capability due to the modular construction of the mover, and flux controllability due to field current variation. The initial designs are optimized through a genetic algorithm using JMAG software ver. 20.1. to maximize the thrust force and minimize thrust force ripples ratio. After optimization, the average thrust force in Machine I and Machine II is increased by 31.96% and 32.31%, respectively. Additionally, a mathematical model is developed to compute electromagnetic thrust force and fault-tolerant capability. The electromagnetic performance of both machines are compared through 2D FEA. Both analytical and FEA-based designs are verified through experimental validation on the developed prototype. Finally, a coupled electromagnetic-thermal study is carried out, with the temperature of the prototype being visualized experimentally using a Fluke VT04 IR thermometer.

Graphic abstract:

High hardness, low friction coefficient and chemical resistance are only a few of the exceptional mechanical qualities of diamond. Diamonds can be artificially created to have different levels of conductivity, or they can be single, micro or nanocrystalline and highly electrically insulating. It also has high biocompatibility and is famous for being mechanically robust. Due to its high hardness, lack of ductility and difficulty in welding, diamond is a challenging material to construct devices with. Diamonds have experienced a rise in attention as a biological material in recent decades due to new synthesis and fabrication techniques that have eliminated some of these disadvantages. In general, entropic measurements are used for investigating the chemical or biological properties of molecular structures. This study calculates several important K-Banhatti entropies, redefined Zagreb entropies and atom-bond sum connectivity entropy for diamond crystals. We also present a numeric and graphical explanations of obtain indices.

China has become a major global power due to its rapid economic growth, which is being driven by resource-intensive industries but at a considerable environmental cost. This study investigates the intricate relationships that exist between China's mining regulations, resource utilization, and environmentally friendly policies, as well as the overall impacts of these relationships on economic growth. The research uses a rigorous regression analysis approach and data from the Ministry of National Resources and the China Statistical Yearbook from 1986 to 2022. Integrating a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) enables an investigation of the relationships among debt levels, GDP, and natural financing. Wald test estimates also reveal exact Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) relationships. The results indicate that while China's economy has significantly benefited from mineral-intensive sectors, green measures are urgently needed to slow environmental deterioration. The focus should be redirected toward encouraging sustainable and ongoing development. These results highlight the critical role that green projects play in fostering economic growth. How China strikes a careful balance between its goals for ecological sustainability and economic growth is crucial for both China and the rest of the world in an era characterized by worries about climate change and resource shortages. The objective of this study is to analyze the complex relationship among China's mining regulations, resource utilization, and environmental policies. It will evaluate the effects of these factors on economic growth, with a particular focus on the necessity of adopting sustainable development practices in the face of environmental challenges and economic expansion. The study's goal is to examine the intricate relationships between China's resource use, environmental policies, and mining restrictions. It focuses on the importance of sustainable development methods in the face of environmental issues and economic growth. This research highlights the essential relationship between environmental stewardship and sustainable economic development, and policymakers, businesses, and environmental activists can all benefit from it.

Aberrations in glycan and lectin expression and function represent one of the earliest hallmarks of cancer. Among galectins, a conserved family of β-galactoside-binding lectins, the role of Galectin-9 in immune–tumor interactions is well-established, although its effect on cancer cell behavior remains unclear. In this study, we assayed for, and observed, an association between Galectin-9 expression and invasiveness of breast cancer cells in vitroand in vivo. Genetic perturbation and pharmacological inhibition using novel cognate inhibitors confirmed a positive correlation between Galectin-9 levels and the adhesion of invasive cancer cells to─and their invasion through─constituted organomimetic extracellular matrix microenvironments. Signaling experiments and unbiased quantitative proteomics revealed Galectin-9 induction of Focal Adhesion Kinase activity and S100A4 expression, respectively. FAK inhibition decreased S100A4 mRNA levels. Our results provide crucial insights into how elevated Galectin-9 expression potentiates the invasiveness of breast cancer cells during early steps of invasion.

Structures face different types of imperfections and defects during the fabrication process, installation and working environment. In this paper, the imperfection effects in the coupled vibration behaviour of axially functionally graded carbon nanotube (CNT)-strengthened beam structures with different boundary conditions are analysed considering porosity as well as geometric and mass imperfections in the structure. Porosity is modelled using different types of formulations for simple-cell, open-cell and closed-cell porous structures. The porosity is assumed to be either uniform or by varying through the thickness of the hollow beam using different functions. Mass imperfection effect is added to the system by considering a concentrated mass in the system affecting the mass homogeneity of the structure. Geometry imperfection is also considered by having an initial deformation in the structure which could be caused by an improper fabrication process. Coupled axial and transverse equations of motion are obtained using Hamilton’s principle and the von Kármán geometrical nonlinearity. Governing equations are solved for different types of boundary conditions using a semi-analytical modal decomposition technique. It is shown that strengthening the base matrix with CNT fibres can improve the vibration behaviour of imperfect structures and the influence of CNT volume fraction and distribution through the length of the beam is discussed. The results provided in this paper may be used as a benchmark to validate future experimental results to prevent imperfection, delamination and stress singularities in the structures.

Purpose: This study aims to achieve three objectives: to explore the perception of consumers about supersized foods (in both pre- and post-consumption scenarios), to identify why consumers prefer supersized options over other available options and to determine the types of situations that push consumers to make such decisions. Design/methodology/approach: This qualitative study uses the triangulation of projective methods, coupled with semi-structured interviews with 120 participants. The data was collected from major cities of Pakistan, using a convenient sample of 25 semi-structured interviews, 35 narratives and 60 sentence completions and constructions analyzed by performing thematic analysis. Findings: The findings indicate that the antecedents of the purchase of supersized food include price/quantity trade-off, hunger, liking and the social setting of consumption. Such purchase decisions also lead to consequences such as saving after purchase, health concerns, food waste, guilt and satisfaction. The findings also reveal the factors that play a dual role of an antecedent and a consequence: sharing, social status, quantity and leisure time. Practical implications: The knowledge of factors that make consumers select supersized foods can help marketers design deals that can control overconsumption and food waste. Instead of only focusing on the motivations behind the purchase of supersized foods, the authors also discuss the aspects of food purchase and consumption. Originality/value: This study advances the literature on purchase decision, consumption and post-consumption of supersized foods, providing insights for food retailers, regulators and policymakers. ¿Cuándo y por qué los consumidores eligen alimentos de gran tamaño? Propósito: Este estudio busca alcanzar tres objetivos: 1) explorar la percepción de los consumidores sobre los alimentos de gran tamaño (tanto en escenarios previos como posteriores al consumo), 2) identificar por qué los consumidores prefieren las opciones de gran tamaño sobre otras opciones disponibles, y 3) determinar qué tipo de situaciones empujan a los consumidores a tomar tales decisiones. Diseño: Este estudio cualitativo emplea la triangulación de métodos proyectivos, junto con entrevistas semiestructuradas con 120 participantes. Los datos se recopilaron en las principales ciudades de Pakistán, utilizando una muestra conveniente de 25 entrevistas semiestructuradas, 35 narraciones y 60 terminaciones y construcciones de frases analizadas mediante la realización de un análisis temático. Conclusiones: Los resultados indican que los antecedentes de la compra de alimentos de gran tamaño incluyen la relación precio/cantidad, el hambre, el gusto y el entorno social del consumo. Estas decisiones de compra también conllevan consecuencias como el ahorro después de la compra, la preocupación por la salud, el desperdicio de alimentos, el sentimiento de culpa y la satisfacción. Los resultados también revelan los factores que desempeñan un doble papel de antecedente y consecuencia: compartir, estatus social, cantidad y tiempo de ocio. Implicaciones prácticas: El conocimiento de los factores que hacen que los consumidores seleccionen alimentos de gran tamaño puede ayudar a los responsables de marketing a diseñar ofertas que puedan controlar el consumo excesivo y el desperdicio de alimentos. En lugar de centrarse únicamente en las motivaciones que subyacen a la compra de alimentos de mayor tamaño, los autores también analizan los aspectos de la compra y el consumo de alimentos. Originalidad: Este estudio supone un avance en la literatura sobre la decisión de compra, el consumo y el posconsumo de los alimentos de gran tamaño, proporcionando información a los minoristas de alimentos, a los reguladores y a los responsables políticos. Gran tamaño, Alimentos de gran tamaño, Consumo de alimentos, Estudio cualitativo, Técnicas proyectivas Investigación 消费者何时以及为何选择超大号食品？ 目的: 本研究旨在实现三个目标。1）探索消费者对超大号食品的认知看法（在消费前和消费后的场景下）, 2）确定消费者为什么喜欢超大号食品而不是其他现有选择, 以及3）确定促使消费者做出这种决定的情况类型。 设计/方法/途径: 这项定性研究采用了投射方法中的的三角测量, 以及对120名参与者的半结构化访谈。这些数据是从巴基斯坦的主要城市收集的, 研究者使用了一个方便性样本, 其中包括25个半结构式访谈, 35个叙述, 以及60个句子的完成和结构。这些数据通过主题分析来进行解析。 研究结果: 研究结果表明, 购买超大号食品的前因包括价格/数量的权衡、饥饿感、喜好和消费的社会环境。这样的购买决定也导致了购买后的节省、健康问题、食物浪费、内疚和满足感等后果。研究结果还揭示了几个即是前因又是结果的双角色因素：分享、社会地位、数量和休闲时间。 实际意义: 了解促使消费者选择超大号食品的因素可以帮助营销人员设计能够控制过度消费和食品浪费的交易。作者不仅仅关注了购买超大号食品背后的动机, 还讨论了食品购买和消费的各个方面。 原创性/价值: 这项研究推进了关于超大食品的购买决策、消费和消费后的文献, 为食品零售商、监管者和政策制定者提供了见解。 关键词 超大, 超大食品, 食品消费, 定性研究, 投射技术 文章类型： 研究型论文

The environmentally-friendly (1–x)Ba(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3–xBa(Mg1/3Ta2/3)O3(x=0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08) relaxor ferroelectric ceramics were prepared by the conventional solid-state method and sintered in air at 1400 °C for 2 h. SEM and XRD analyses were utilized to study the surface morphologies and the crystalline structures, respectively. The effects of Ba(Mg1/3Ta2/3)O3on the phase transformation, dielectric and ferroelectric properties of Ba(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3ceramics were also investigated. It is found that the average grain size of (1–x)Ba(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3–xBa(Mg1/3Ta2/3)O3(BZT–BMT) perovskite single-phase ceramics decreases as the content of Ba(Mg1/3Ta2/3)O3(BMT) increases. The relaxor ferroelectric behavior with diffuse phase transition and well-defined frequency dispersion of dielectric maximum temperature is found for the ceramic with increasing xvalues. 0.98BZT–0.02BMT ceramic shows very good dielectric properties with the relative permittivity and the dielectric loss, measured at 100 kHz as 6034 and 0.01399 respectively at room temperature. Both remnant polarization and coercive field decreased with increasing BMT content, indicating a transition from the ferroelectric phase to the paraelectric phase at room temperature.

Nanofluids have gained popularity due to their better thermophysical properties and usefulness in daily life such as electronic design, solar energy, heat exchanger tubes, and cooling systems, among others. We have looked at the influence of thermal radiation, Cattaneo-Christov heat flux, and slippage on three-dimensional flow of MHD nanofluid along a surface which is stretched/shrinks in both directions in this study. The transformed ordinary differential equations are solved analytically, using homotopy analysis technique. A graphical analysis for the flows for numerous physical features has been presented. It has been observed that the fluids axial and transverse velocities are decreased by the magnetic field parameter, the suction/injection parameter, as well as by the slip parameter for stretching, whereas for shrinking, they are increased. The radiation parameter, heat transfer Biot number, and thermal relaxation parameter increases the nanofluids temperature. Bar charts were also used to evaluate how the physical parameters affect the skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number.

Developed and solved in this article, for the first time, is a coupled continuum viscoelastic model for Timoshenko nonlocal strain gradient theory (NSGT)-based nanobeams; this is performed using a finite difference analysis (FDA). The viscosity of infinitesimal elements of the Timoshenko NSGT nanobeams is incorporated via the Kelvin–Voigt scheme (as a two-parameter rheological scheme) for both the transverse/longitudinal/rotational motions. The NSGT for the normal/shear stress fields is used for ultrasmall size influences on the continuum model. Rotary inertia is automatically present due to the Timoshenko-type rotation. The viscosity in the Timoshenko NSGT nanobeam is responsible for energy dissipation formulated via negative work. Hamilton’s balance scheme is utilised and resulted in the coupled continuum viscoelastic dynamic model for Timoshenko NSGT nanobeams, which is solved via a FDA for nonlinear mechanics. A nonlinear bending test is conducted via development of a finite element method model in the absence of the NSGT.

Context Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal for both plants and humans. Wheat grown on Cd-contaminated soils may accumulate toxic levels of Cd in grains. Aim This study aimed to compare soil zinc (Zn) application and seed Zn-priming for decreasing grain Cd concentration in standard and Zn-biofortified wheat cultivars grown on Cd-spiked soil. Methods Standard (Jauhar-2016) and Zn-biofortified (Zincol-2016) wheat cultivars were grown in pots filled with Cd-spiked soil (8mgCdkg−1 ). The tested Zn treatments were un-primed, hydro-primed, and Zn-primed seeds with and without soil Zn application at 8mgkg−1 . Key results Zinc treatments significantly mitigated the toxic effects of Cd on the growth and physiological parameters of both cultivars. As compared to control, all Zn treatments significantly increased Zn and decreased Cd concentration in grains of the cultivars. On average, the maximum increase in grain Zn concentration over control was approximately 36% with Zn-priming+soil Zn. The same treatment, as compared to control, decreased grain Cd concentration by 42% in Zincol-2016 and 35% in Jauhar-2016. Grain Cd concentration was within the permissible level (≤0.2mgkg−1 ) in Jauhar-2016 at all Zn treatments and in Zincol-2016 at Zn-priming+soil Zn. Conclusion Soil Zn application, seed Zn-priming, and their combination were effective in decreasing grain Cd accumulation in wheat grown on Cd-contaminated soil. Implication Zinc treatments, especially the combination of soil Zn application and seed Zn-priming, should be recommended for wheat grown on Cd-contaminated soil.

Coronavirus disease (CoVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) scrambles the world by infecting millions of peoples all over the globe. It has caused tremendous morbidity, mortality and greatly impacted the lives and economy worldwide as an outcome of mandatory quarantines or isolations. Despite the worsening trends of COVID-19, no drugs are validated to have significant efficacy in the clinical treatment of COVID-19 patients in large-scale studies. Physicians and researchers throughout the world are working to understand the pathophysiology to expose the conceivable handling regimens and to determine the effective vaccines and/or therapeutic agents. Some of them re-purposed drugs for clinical trials which were primarily known to be effective against the RNA viruses including MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-1. In the absence of a proven efficacy therapy, the current management use therapies based on antivirals, anti-inflammatory drugs, convalescent plasma, anti-parasitic agents in both oral and parenteral formulation, oxygen therapy, and heparin support. What is needed at this hour, however, is a definitive drug therapy or vaccine. Different countries are rushing to find this, and various trials are already underway. We aimed to summarize the potential therapeutic strategies as treatment options for COVID-19 that could be helpful to stop further spread of SARS-CoV-2 by affecting its structural components or modulation of immune response and discuss the leading drugs/vaccines, which are considered as potential agents for controlling this pandemic.

Neuroplasticity allows the human nervous system to adapt and relearn motor control following stroke. Rehabilitation therapy, which enhances neuroplasticity, can be made more effective if assisted by robotic tools. In this paper, a novel 4-SPS parallel robot has been developed to provide recovery of wrist movements post-stroke. The novel mechanism presented here was inspired by the forearm anatomy and can provide the rotational degrees of freedom required for all wrist movements. The robot design has been discussed in detail along with the necessary constructional, kinematic, and static analyses. The spatial workspace of the robot is estimated considering various dimensional and application-specific constraints besides checking for singular configurations. The wrist robot has been further evaluated using important performance indices such as condition number, actuator forces, and stiffness. The pneumatic artificial muscles exhibit varying stiffness, and therefore, workspace points are reached with different overall stiffness of the robot. It is essential to assess robot workspace points that can be reached with positive forces in actuators while maintaining a positive definite overall stiffness matrix. After the above analysis, design optimization has been carried out using an evolutionary algorithm whereby three critical criteria are optimized simultaneously for optimal wrist robot design.Graphical Abstract