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In this study, a comparison was conducted involving novel chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol-based membranes comprising carbon nanotubes and molybdenum trioxide nanoparticles. This comparison's primary focus was to assess synthesized membranes' effectiveness in removing methyl red from aqueous solutions. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy confirmed the presence of specific functional groups and homogeneous dispersion of carbon nanotubes and molybdenum trioxide nanoparticles within the membranes, respectively. The membranes underwent additional characterization using various swelling parameters to assess mechanical strength and cross-linking. These parameters included swelling over time in water, swelling in electrolyte solutions, and different pH solutions and gel fraction analysis. Furthermore, the diffusion of water adhered Fickian diffusion principle. Various adsorption parameters were employed, including batch studies, isotherm studies at different pH levels, and temperature studies. The results of the batch study highlighted that chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol/carbon nanotubes membrane exhibited the highest adsorption, reaching approximately 9.7 mM/g (98%) and achieving equilibrium within 60 min. The maximum adsorption of methyl red was observed at pH 7 and decreased with increasing temperature. Moreover, the experimental data were simulated using kinetic models (pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, Elovich model, and diffusion model) and isothermal models (Freundlich, Langmuir, and Langmuir Freundlich). Data indicated that pseudo-first order was the best-fitted model, which confirms physisorption. Among the isothermal models, Langmuir exhibited the most suitable fit, confirming that single-layer adsorption had taken place on the adsorbent surface. Thermodynamic parameters were studied, ensuring the adsorption process was exothermic and spontaneous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fluid of shear rate dependent viscosity has totally different rheology and exhibits dynamics which play a key role in heat transfer rate and friction experienced by surface over which this type of fluid is considered in this study as this type of fluids are extensively used in thermal processes. The governing laws and constitutive equations for hyperbolic tangent fluid and thermo-physical relation correlation for hybridity of nano-structures are simultaneously solved via finite element method (FEM). The predictions are recorded, and outcomes are explained. It is found from outcomes that suspension of hybrid nano-structures is the most approximate technique for the enhancement of thermal performance of coolant (hyperbolic tangent fluid). The process of diffusion of wall momentum into fluid speeds down as viscosity decreases as a function of shear rate. It is predicted from simulations that mono nanofluid is less shear thinning than hybrid nanofluid. Hence, if it is desired to reduce shear thinning phenomenon, enhance the thermal performance and suspension of hybrid nano-structures are recommended. The results are validated by comparing them with already published benchmarks. The parameters are varied, and simulations are recorded in term of numerical values and graphical data. The rotation of micro-structures has shown significant reduction in angular velocity of mono and hybrid nanofluids. Angular field has depicted an increasing trend when vortex viscosity parameter is varied through increasing values. Temperature decreases as a result of an increase in thermal relaxation time. Hence, thermal memory effects play a significant role in controlling the thermal boundary layer thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The collision of the Eurasian and Indian plates has resulted in two spatially offset subduction zones, the Makran subduction zone to the south and the Himalayan convergent margin to the north. The Main Mantle Thrust (MMT) and adjoining regions have a complex geomorphic setting and geological variations with a number of active faults that were connected with numerous major devastating earthquakes in the investigation. Our study was carried out to develop a DEM based geomorphometric approach to study the stream power model and hypsometric analysis along the MMT and surroundings to achieve rigorous investigation of its potential to delineate active topography. Active tectonics in this region has greatly influenced the drainage system and geomorphic expressions. The study area is a junction of three important mountain ranges (Hindu Kush-Karakorum-Himalayas) and thus is an ideal natural laboratory to investigate the relative tectonic activity resulting from the India-Eurasia collision. Morphotectonic and geomorphometric evaluations of the MMT and surrounding regions were conducted by associating various DEM derived geomorphometric indices such as steepness (Ks), hypsometric integral (HIs), Hack gradient index (SL) and concavity (θ). From the results obtained, we deduce that these combined procedures reveal the highly active deformed zones connected to neotectonics. Ground validations and Landsat satellite imagery also give clue about the active faults based on the offsetted channels, triangular facets and severely deformed topography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generation and interpretation of geomorphometric maps through remote sensing and GIS techniques are significant platforms for the investigations of neotectonics. This investigation presents data from the Nanga Parbat Syntaxix (NPS) and its neighborhood, which is one of the fastest rising portions of the orogen (8‒10 mm per year). Geoscientists and geomorphologists frequently generate huge datasets and a significant amount is spatially distributed over space. The Trend Analysis of Polynomial Surface (TAPS), Local-Base-Level (LBL) and Vertical Dissection (VD) maps were generated from SRTM DEM. The investigation area is situated along the MMT and below MKT along the Indus River in Gilgit-Baltistan, Northern Pakistan, containing five major geomorphometric units, two describe by drainage dissection, two of relative relief, with an escarpment of thousands of meters, and a relatively flat Deosai plateau in the southeast portion with large VD of the terrains. The residual map was obtained from DTM minus 12th order trend surface that delineates areas of abnormal elevation to check spatial correlation with the other geomorphometric maps. The 12th-order Trend Surface is the best representative surface that reflects NE‒SW and NW‒SE upward-trend surface of Nanga Parbat Haramosh Massif Zone (NPHMZ). The Sassi Raikot Fault Zone (SRFZ), NPHMZ, MKT and region northwest of Jaglot towards Hindukush in the investigation area fits well in terms of anomalous elevations, where as Deosai plateau, Skardu, Kachura, Gorikot (Astore valley), Jaglot and Gunar regions reflects relatively negative anomalies. The LBL map generated through 2nd and 3rd Strahler order streams has decoded excellent results. Isobase and VD results show higher values near NPHMZ, MKT, and upper Astore valley. The axis of the NPHMZ and MKT corresponds with positive anomalous elevation of the residual map and is consistent with the regional neotectonics and uplift. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofertilizers, a sustainable eco-friendly agricultural approach to crop improvement, are used to supplement chemical fertilizers mainly to maintain soil fertility. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of biological and chemical fertilizers on the growth and yield of sorghum at University Research Farm, Chakwal Road, Rawalpindi-Pakistan. Sorghum varieties viz; Johar and PARC-SS-2 were tested for biological and chemical fertilizers. All the treatments enhanced the growth, yield and quality attributes but maximum improvement was recorded by the combined application of chemical and biological fertilizers. Application of N @ 60 kg ha−1 + P @ 35 kg ha−1 + PSB @ 1.25 kg ha−1 + Biozote @ 1.25 kg ha−1 showed an increase of 12.45%, 78.11%, 34.4% and 25.38% in plant height, green fodder yield, grain yield and crude proteins over the control respectively. Results of current study are very promising regarding the combine use of chemical and bio-fertilizers to improve the productivity of sorghum crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize is one of the most salt-sensitive field crop among cereals which is adversely affected by salt stress. With the objective to sort out the contrasting genotypes, eight maize hybrids (FH-988, 20R52, FH-1046, Rustam-1, FH-949, Pioneer 30Y87, FH-1137 and Rustam-12) were raised in saline (100 mM NaCl) and non-saline (4 mM NaCl) hydroponics culture. The layout of the experiment was Completely Randomized Design (CRD) in factorial fashion with three replications. The maize hybrid FH-988 was evaluated as comparatively salt tolerant hybrid as it has produced the maximum shoot dry weight (7.66 g) and retained higher K+/Na+ ratio (0.87), while FH-1137 was categorized as comparatively salt sensitive genotypes because of minimum shoot dry weight (4.33 g) and retained minimum K+/Na+ ratio (0.44). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substance abuse places a great burden on associated families, communities, and the health care sector. Drug addiction leads to physical traumas, psychiatric disorders, and other neuronal disorders; it causes millions of deaths per year. The rehabilitation in the respective cases includes complex therapeutic treatments along with other measures for recovery. Substance abuse brings about neurochemical imbalances in the brain and develops mainly due to disorders in the dopamine, serotonin, cannabinoid, opioid, glutamate, and GABA receptor systems. Cholinergic neurons are in abundance among all other types of neurons in the brain. During recent time, cross-talks and co-existence of more than one receptor have attracted attention from the scientific community. In addition, a growing preclinical literature reveals a critical role of acetylcholine (ACh) in the experience and progression of the drug use. Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), an enzyme structurally homologous to acetylcholinesterase (AChE), also targets acetylcholine (ACh) and has been implicated in the metabolism of cocaine, heroin, succinylcholine esters, and many other drugs. In addition, the activity of the above enzymes has been associated with neuronal disorders, like Alzheimer's disease and other psychiatric conditions, in particular depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, etc., and is also involved in some metabolic diseases. The multifaceted neuronal and non-neuronal aspects demand a review of the role of BChE in substance abuse, which has practically not been addressed in the literature, except cocaine addiction. This overview emphasizes and integrates the putative role of BChE in substance abuse. The research gap and future trend of research in addiction therapy will be highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work represents the nature of conduction mechanism in bismuth silicate (BiSiO) nanofibers as a function of temperature and frequency. Scanning electron micrographs and X-rays diffraction patterns exhibited the formation of cubic phases of Bi4(SiO4)3 and Bi12SiO20 nanofibers respectively with an average diameter of ~200 nm. Temperature dependent (300 K–400 K) electrical characterization of fibers was carried out in frequency range of ~20 Hz–2 MHz. The complex impedance analysis showed contribution from bulk and intergranular parts of nanofibers in conduction. Moreover, analysis of the Cole-Cole plot confirmed the space charge dependent behavior of BiSiO nanofibers. Two types of relaxation phenomena were observed through Modulus analysis. In ac conductivity curve, step like feature of plateau and dispersive regions were described by Maxwell-Wagner effect while the dc part obeyed the Arrhenius law. However, frequency dependent ac conductivity revealed the presence of conduction mechanism in diverse regions that was ascribed to large polaron tunneling model. Detailed analysis of complex Impedance and ac conductivity measurement showed negative temperature coefficient of resistance for the BiSiO nanofibers. Current-voltage (IV) characteristics represented ohmic conduction; followed by space charge limited current conduction at intermediate voltages. Results from both ac and dc measurements were in good agreement with each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A monomeric ternary complex [Cu(tmen)(mef)2] (1) (where mef = mefenamate anion (C15H15NO21−, tmen = N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine) is prepared by the reaction of CuCl2·2H2O, mefenamic acid (mefH = 2-(2,3-dimethylphenyl)aminobenzoic acid), and N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (tmen) in the presence of sodium hydroxide. Complex 1 is characterized by the elemental combustion analysis, UV-visible and FT–IR spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and single crystal X-ray diffraction. From the crystal structure of complex 1, it is evident that each copper(II) ion is six-coordinate and is bonded to chelating tmen, and four O atoms of two mef anions (mef1–). In the crystal, the intramolecular hydrogen bonding exists between the H atom of the –NH group of mef and the O atom of one of the coordinated carboxylate O atoms, belonging to the same mef ligand. Complex 1 is tested for antibacterial properties against four strains, including Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spizizenii, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumonia. The complex shows a biological activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus spizizenii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we investigate MHD flow of micropolar upper-convected Maxwell (UCM) fluid with the application of a recently proposed hyperbolic heat flux equation thus allowing explaining the time relaxation characteristics for heat flux. The aim is to incorporate microstructural effects in the upper-convected Maxwell fluid with Joule heating and thermal radiation. In this respect, microrotation of the fluid particles is taken into account and as a result the angular-momentum balance equation is obtained. The resulting governing flow equations are transformed into their respective system of ODEs by using suitable similarity transformations. As a consequence two non-dimensional parameters arise thus accounting for microstructural effects in the UCM fluid. Effects of these microstructural parameters on macroscopic velocity, microrotations and temperature profiles are examined. Moreover, different other physical parameters for instance, Magnetic parameter, Eckert number, Prandtl number, fluid and thermal relaxation time affecting the velocities and temperature profiles are also studied and discussed in case of both classical and micropolar fluid flow. The accuracy of the numerical solution obtained by the shooting method is shown by comparing the skin friction coefficient values in the case of classical fluid flow with existing results in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new mixed-ligand one-dimensional copper(II) coordination polymer [Cu(en)(sal)Cl] where en = ethylenediamine(CHN) and Hsal = 2-hydroxybenzoic acid (salicylic acid; CHO) is synthesized and characterized by FTIR spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The structure contains Cu ions in two different distorted octahedral coordination environments: an axially extended CuNCl moiety arising from a pair of bidentate en ligands and a CuOCl moiety arising from a pair of asymmetrically coordinated sal anions. The chloride ions bridge the copper ions into a zigzag chain propagating in [001]. The structure is consolidated by N-H•••O and N-H•••Cl hydrogen bonds which generate a layered network. Crystal data: CHClCuNO, M = 296.20, monoclinic, P2/ c, a = 13.9179(10) Å, b = 10.4900(8) Å, c = 8.5181(6) Å, β = 105.518(4)°, V = 1198.30(15) Å, Z = 4, R( F) = 0.026, w R( F ) = 0.068. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new copper(II) complex of 1,10-phenanthroline (C1HN) and the meta-aminobenzoate ion ( m-amb; CHNO), having the formula Cu(CHN)(CHNO)Cl∙0.5HO, is prepared and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The structure is built up from monomeric units in which the coordination environment around the metal ion is a square plane arising from a bidentate 1,10-phenanthroline molecule, a monodentate m-amb anion, and a chloride ion. A very long (Cu-N = 2.856(5) Å) bond to the nitrogen atom of an adjacent m-amb ion generates [101] polymeric chains in the crystal. The crystal structure is consolidated by N-H∙∙∙O and O-H∙∙∙O hydrogen bonds and C-H∙∙∙O, C-H∙∙∙Cl, and aromatic π-π stacking interactions. Crystal data: CHClCuNO, M = 424.33, monoclinic, P2/ n (No. 14), a = 9.8200(5) Å, b = 10.9291(7) Å, c = 16.3803(9) Å, β = 105.293(3)°, V = 1695.74(17) Å, Z = 4, R( F) = 0.043, wR( F ) = 0.122. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the initial plasma formation in glass spherical tokamak (GLAST-II) with electron cyclotron resonance pre-ionization assisted startup. Initially, a plasma current of 3 kA has been produced for duration of about 0.5 ms after establishing optimum conditions for microwave absorption at 2.45 GHz. Plasma current is then enhanced up to 5 kA by applying a small vertical magnetic field that provides additional plasma heating and shaping. Applied vertical field is optimized experimentally and optimal value is found to be 40 Gauss for this experiment. Plasma current and loop voltage are monitored by using Rogowski coil and toroidal loop of wire. A fast framing camera (5000 fps) is used for temporal investigation of plasma during the discharge scenario. A fast photodiode (BPX-65) and USB4000 spectrometer are used to record the signature of plasma current and the impurity content (O, H etc.). Cross-sectional average electron temperature is also estimated from plasma resistivity and found to be 6.1 eV for maximum plasma current of 5 kA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two different phases of bismuth silicate nanofibers [BiSiO and Bi(SiO)] were synthesized using electrospinning technique. BS nanofibers were tested for the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange and safranin O dyes. Different phases of BS affect the photodegradation efficiency of nanofibers. Impressive enhancement in photocatalytic efficiency and BET surface area of Bi(SiO) was observed over BiSiO. A speedy reduction in dyes concentration was attributed to the rapid formation of oxygenated radicals by the capture of electrons and holes, generated in the BS nanofiber by UV irradiation. Therefore, the photocatalytic mechanism was elucidated using impedance spectroscopy at room temperature. The lower impedance value of Bi(SiO) nanofibers had improved high-efficiency charge transfer capability. The cycling efficiency (30 times) and recovery characteristics pointed out that Bi(SiO) nanofibers photocatalysts had high constancy, resilience, and regeneration ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, crosslinked chitosan/poly(vinyl alcohol) membranes (CS/P) were prepared using methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) as crosslinker and tested for the removal of textile dyes (Nylosan red N-2RBL (NR) and palatine orange (POr). These membranes were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and results confirmed the presence of linkages between PVA and chitosan through MTMS. The high swelling of these membranes showed its hydrogel properties. Adsorption methodology was applied to find out the effects of the different variables, including contact time, pH, temperature and dye concentration. Under the optimal values of all parameters, the maximum dye removal was of 2.42 mmol/g (1230 mg/g) and 1.59 mmol/g (935 mg/g) for POr and NR, respectively. The kinetics modeling study of both dyes were best fitted by pseudo-first order equation. Furthermore, isotherm data followed the Langmuir isotherm model and thermodynamic parameters suggest that adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic in nature. It is concluded that CS/P membranes had high adsorption capacity for POr and NR dyes, ecofriendly properties might be a suitable and efficient adsorbent for removal of dyes from textile solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new mixed-ligand copper(II) complex of 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) and benzoate ligands having the general formula [Cu(phen)(CHCO)] is prepared and its crystal structure is determined by X-ray crystallography. The complex exists in the monomeric form; the coordination environment around the copper(II) ion is square planar, with the pair of monodentate benzoate ligands being in a cis disposition. In the crystal, the molecules are linked into [001] chains by weak C-H⋯O interactions; no aromatic π-π stacking occurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To re-evaluate the red cell diameter width distribution (RDW) to help predict iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency in the older person (>65years old). Design: Cross-sectional analysis of haematological parameters in old subjects with iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiencies. Setting: District General Hospital in Harrow, Middlesex, United Kingdom. Participants: Subjects (both inpatient and outpatient) where haemoglobin and haematinics (ferritin, vitamin B12 and red cell folate) were undertaken as part of investigative work-up. Measurements: We evaluated the RDW, microcytosis, macrocytosis and haemoglobin (Joosten anaemia) in subjects with the above deficiencies. Method: Two hundred and forty-eight older subjects were retrospectively identified and categorised as definite iron, probable iron, vitamin B12, B12 and probable iron and folate deficiency. Results: Raised RDW was superior to microcytosis in predicting iron status in both definite iron (χ2 =21.3, P <0.0001) and probable deficient group (χ2 =30.0, P <0.0001). RDW was also superior to macrocytosis in predicting B12 (χ2 =12.2, P =0.0005) and folate status (χ2 =10.6, P =0.001). Similarly, RDW was better than Joosten anaemic criteria for iron deficient (χ2 =4.08, P =0.04), probable iron deficient (χ2 =9.3, P =0.002), combined B12 and probable iron deficiency (χ2 =4.7, P =0.03), folate deficiency (χ2 =5.9, P =0.015) but not for B12 deficiency (χ2 =0.05, P =0.83). Conclusion: Although RDW lacked sensitivity, it is the most useful haematological parameter to alert clinicians to check the haematinics to determine anaemic type in the older person. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mount Arafat is a sacred place for Muslims. It has been classified as a granodiorite rock which mainly consists of feldspar and quartz, muscovite, etc. During the Hajj and Umra, Muslims visit this holly place and stay there for some time. In order to study the geology and thermal history as well as to assess the radiological hazards due to the presence of primordial radionuclides, systematic studies using petrographic, fission track dating and γ-spectrometric (HPGe) techniques were carried out. Our study yielded fission track age of 9.13 ± 1.05 Ma of the Mount Arafat granodiorite. Rifting, magmatism, volcanism and sea floor spreading that resulted in the formation of Red Sea seems may have altered the original age of the Arafat granodiorite under study to 9.13 ± 1.05 Ma. Measured radioactivity concentrations due to Ra, Th and K were found to be 10.75 ± 3.92, 29.21 ± 4.34 and 664.49 ± 7.45 Bq kg, respectively. From the measured radioactivity, gamma index (Iγ) and radium equivalent (Ra) were calculated as 0.402 and 103.23 Bq kg whereas outdoor external dose (D) and annual effective dose (E) were estimated to be 40.30 nGyh and 0.045 mSvy respectively. All the above mentioned values are well below the recommended limits. The Mount Arafat thus does not pose any radiological health hazard to the general public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the original article there was a mistake in the information of the corresponding author. The correct spelling of the names of the authors and their order is: S. S. Batool1,2*, S. R. Gilani1, S. S. Zainab2, M. N. Tahir3, W. T. A. Harrison4, Q. Syed5, and S. Mazhar5 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Priming is a valuable, facile and well-established technique used to enhance seed quality to achieve rapid germination, establishment of stress resistance and improvement of crop yields. Different natural and synthetic priming agents have been used for better crop performance and abiotic stress management. In this study, four different benzimidazoles were selected as priming agents and their comparative effects were evaluated on different biochemical attributes including total soluble protein, total oxidant status, MDA contents, antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD) and hydrolytic enzymes (protease, estrases) compared to control. Treatments with 2-thio-1- H -benzimidazole reduced total soluble proteins and increased total oxidant status significantly but no considerable effect was observed on other parameters. Priming with 2-(4-chlorophenyl)-1- H -benzimidazole considerably increased the total oxidant status and a little improvement was observed in total soluble proteins. Seeds primed with 1- H -benzimidazole showed a noticeable decrease in the protease activity while all other priming treatments were unable to induce any detectable change compared to control. The treatment with 2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1- H -benzimidazole induced maximum reduction in MDA contents and POD activity. Moreover, all benzimidazole priming treatments reduced mean germination time, increased germination percentage and germination rate of wheat seeds., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have any competing interests.

Microalgal-bacterial co-cultures were employed for the treatment of artificially prepared metal-rich wastewaters in this study. For the purpose, highly metal-resistant microalgal and bacterial species were isolated from a leading wastewater channel flowing through Lahore, Pakistan, and characterized at the molecular level. The microbial identities were proved after BLAST analysis. The microalgal (Chlorella vulgaris-BH1) and bacterial (Exiguobacterium profundum-BH2) species were then co-cultured in five different proportions. Five different proportions of potentially mutualistic microbial co-cultures (comprising of microalgal to bacterial cells in ratios of 1:3, 2:3, 3:3, 3:1, and 3:2) prepared thus were employed to remediate artificially prepared metal-loaded wastewaters. Three randomly selected toxic metals (Cu, Cr, and Ni) were used in this study to prepare metal-rich wastewaters. The microalgal-bacterial co-cultures were then exposed independently to the wastewaters containing 100 ppm of each of the above mentioned metals. The inoculated wastewaters were incubated maximally for a period of 15 days. The metal uptake was noted periodically after every 5 days. The results of the present study depicted that maximally about 78.7, 56.4, and 80% of Cu, Cr, and Ni were removed, respectively after an incubation period of 15 days. The microbial co-culture consisting of microalgal to bacterial cells in a ratio of 3:1 showed the highest remedial potential. The findings of the present study will be helpful in developing effective microalgal-bacterial consortia for economical, efficient, and environment-friendly rehabilitation of the polluted sites.