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[Display omitted] • VEGF-binding peptide "BP" and OEO were loaded into PLGA/Gelatin fibers. • OEO improved anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-bacterial properties. • The BP containing fibers effectively accelerated angiogenesis. • BP and OEO co-loaded fibers showed rapid repair of infected wounds. • Combined delivery of BP and OEO also suppress bacterial growth in vivo. Skin regeneration is hindered by poor vascularization, bacterial infection, prolonged inflammation, and oxidative wound microenvironment, which necessitate the fabrication of alternative wound dressings with anti-adhesion, anti-infection, and angiogenic functions. Prominin-1-derived peptide (PR1P, herein named as BP) may sequester vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by interacting with VEGF receptors and promote wound healing. Oregano essential oil (OEO, herein named as O), is a natural plant extract mainly containing carvacrol and thymol, which manifests low cytotoxicity and cost-effectiveness as well as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-oxidative properties. Herein, we fabricated anti-adhesion, anti-infection, and angiogenic wound dressings by simultaneously exploiting BP and O in electrospun poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide)/gelatin (PG)-based fibrous dressings. Different types of in vitro assays manifested anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-bacterial, and angiogenic characteristics of dressings. The PG@BPO dressings further enabled good wound healing 14 days post-implantation alongside anti-adhesion, and anti-infection properties. The tensile strength of the repaired skin was almost similar to the normal skin (repaired skin, 1.70 MPa and normal skin, 1.78 MPa). These multifunctional dressings may hold great promise for skin repair and related disciplines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress causes irrecoverable damage to plant growth, thus adversely affecting the crop productivity. This study was planned to minimize the heat stress induced-losses to chickpea plants with the exogenous application of growth promoters i.e. moringa leaf extract (MLE), jasmonic acid 100 μM and proline 10uM including distilled water as a control. Two chickpea cultivars (Thal-2006 and Noor-2013) cultivated under optimum sowing time (25th October) and late sowing (25th November) to expose heat stress at the reproductive phase. Results indicated that heat stress severely reduced the chickpea growth and productivity. It was observed that exogenously applied MLE and proline improved productivity even under heat stress conditions as compared to control. However, exogenous application of MLE had a greater influence on the studied parameters than proline, although the insignificant differences were documented in some of the traits. Exogenous application of MLE produced significantly taller plants with improved 100-grains weight, economic yield, biological yield and harvest index. However, foliar spray of proline produced significantly higher enzymatic antioxidants activities than MLE that modulated the adverse impacts of heat stress on yield contributing attributes. Our results suggest that exogenous application of plant growth promoters particularly moringa leaf extract and proline modulated the heat stress induced losses to chickpea plants by improving their antioxidant defense mechanism and enhanced the productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Offshore software development outsourcing (OSDO) is one of the popular development paradigms in the software industry. There are a number of challenges associated with OSDO including the challenges related to requirements engineering (RE) process. The objective of this study is to identify success factors (SFs) associated with RE processes in the OSDO context. A total of 25 SFs were identified using systematic literature review (SLR) and the identified SFs were further validated with practitioners using a questionnaire‐based survey. The authors also examined the identified RE challenges with respect to their relevance for different organisation types (client and vendor) and sizes (small, medium, and large) with an aim to provide a clear understanding of the RE process and its SFs in the context of various OSDO organisations. They also conducted a comparative analysis between the SLR and questionnaire findings and the results indicate that there is a moderately positive correlation between the data sets. They believe that the findings of this study will provide a comprehensive model to help OSDO organisations assess and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of their RE activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new class of q-close-to-convex functions associated with Janowski functions is defined. In this regard, we give sufficient conditions and prove famous de Branges theorem for this newly-defined class of q-close-to-convex functions. We also give the application of our results to finding sufficient conditions for the celebrated Mittag-Leffler function to be a Janowski q-close-to-convex function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complexity of the closed-loop system, short transient response time, and fast synchronization error convergence rates are the three basic parameters that limit hacking in the data encryption and secure the communication systems. This paper addresses the following two challenges: The full-order synchronization (FOS) of two parametrically excited second-order nonlinear pendulum (PENP) chaotic systems with uncertain parameters. The reduced-order synchronization (ROS) between the canonical projection part of an uncertain third-order chaotic Rossler and the uncertain PENP systems. This article designs a new robust adaptive synchronization control (RASC) algorithm to address the above two challenges. The proposed controller achieves the FOS and ROS in a shorter transient time, and the synchronization error signals converge to the origin with faster rates in the presence of bounded unknown state-dependent and time-dependent disturbances. The Lyapunov direct method verifies this convergence behavior. The paper provides parameters updated laws that confirm the convergence of the uncertain parameters to some fixed values. The controller does not cancel the nonlinear terms of the plant; this property of the controller keeps the nonlinear terms in the closed-loop that results in the enhanced complexity of the dynamical system. The proposed RASC strategy is successful in synthesizing oscillation free convergence of the synchronization error signals to the origin for reducing the transient time and guarantees the asymptotic stability at the origin. The simulation results endorse the theoretical findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new class of q-close-to-convex functions associated with Janowski functions is defined. In this regard, we give sufficient conditions and prove the famous de Branges theorem for this newly-defined class of q-close-to-convex functions. We also give the application of our results to finding sufficient conditions for the celebrated Mittag-Leffler function to be a Janowski q-close-to-convex function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new finite-time controller that realizes multi-switching synchronization of chaotic systems with bounded disturbances using the drive and response system synchronization arrangement. The finite-time controller derives the synchronization error to zero within a specified time. The proposed controller consists of three basic terms; each of them accomplishes a distinct objective: (1) stability of the control loop, (2) smooth and fast convergence behavior of the synchronization error, and (3) disturbance rejection. This study also devises a methodology for designing the finite-time controller and describes a general approach that furnishes a systematic procedure for the analysis of the closed loop. The smooth behavior terminology introduced in (2) refers to the over-damped convergence of the synchronization error signals to zero and the synthesis of chattering-free control effort. The analysis, which assures the global stability of the closed loop, uses the second stability theorem of the Lyapunov, while the finite-time stability technique determines the finite-time convergence. This paper includes simulations of two numerical examples for the validation of the theoretical findings and discusses the comparative analysis. The proposed methodology is suitable to design controllers for a wide range of hyper(chaotic) systems. The contributions of the paper are: (1) describe an innovative generalize analytical methodology for the multi-switching combination synchronization of chaotic systems and (2) propose a novel controller design that insures the finite-time synchronization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is a spore-forming, Gram-positive rod that is known to be associated with antibiotic use. It is one of the leading causes of nosocomial diarrhea in the industrialized world and therefore warrants further study of its nature. It isn't clear if co-infection by other organisms can affect the outcome of C. difficile infection (CDI). Methods: A single center retrospective study was done and it used inclusion criteria of 18 years of age and being tested positive for CDI on FilmArray® multiplex gastro-intestinal (GI) panel. Exclusion criteria were a GI panel performed on an outpatient basis, recurrent CDI, and the presence of end-stage renal disease, cirrhosis, or a non-GI infection. The stool sample for all patients were collected within 48 h of presentation to the hospital. There were 235 of 2576 GI panels selected for a retrospective chart review based on the above criteria. Among these 235 patients, 38 had a co-infection (CDI+ another GI infection = group A or cases) and the rest had only CDI (group B or controls). Group A was compared with group B for CDI severity, its response to treatment, recurrence, and length of the hospital stay, using 0.05 as the alpha criterion. Results: Most patients with CDI were female and above the age of 60 years. Co infection did not increase the severity of CDI based both on the American College of Gastroenterology criteria (p 0.16) as well as Infectious Disease Society of America criteria (p 0.77). Co infection group also didn't have significantly different CDI related treatment failure rate (p 0.23), or CDI recurrence rate (p 0.49). Co-infection was also not associated with lengthier hospital stay (p 0.41). Conclusion: Our study suggests that co-infection doesn't affect the severity of CDI or can cause treatment failures. Additionally, there was no significant increase in hospital stay, or increase in CDI recurrence associated with co-infection. Therefore, if CDI is the leading clinical diagnosis and a patient is tested positive for co-infection in addition to CDI on FilmArray® multiplex GI panel, this co-infection shouldn't change the management for CDI. Limitations of this study (including retrospective nature of the study, small sample size, single site study, not including all microbiome and non-inclusion of race) should also be taken into account, while considering the applicability of the results of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of simulation models for improving performances is trendy in manufacturing industries. This paper presents simulation model for evaluating and improving performances of a utensils manufacturing plant. Internal benchmarking is employed for comparison under exactly similar conditions. The data of all input variables is collected and statistical models for each process is developed using Arena input analyzer. The simulation model is then developed using SIMIO to optimize throughput, work-in-process, and cycle time. The experiments have been performed under various scenarios, i.e., at different values of the input parameters. The areas for improvement have been highlighted on the basis of results. Furthermore, best and worst case scenarios have been discussed in detail to provide insights for managerial performance improvements by (1) optimizing inter-arrival time, (2) increasing production rate, and (3) reducing the number of rejected parts without disturbing the existing setup of the manufacturing facility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new class of q-close-to-convex functions associated with Janowski functions is defined. In this regard, we give sufficient conditions and prove the famous de Branges theorem for this newly-defined class of q-close-to-convex functions. We also give the application of our results to finding sufficient conditions for the celebrated Mittag-Leffler function to be a Janowski q-close-to-convex function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulated power cables are becoming increasingly popular in today’s developing distribution and transportion networks. However, due to aging, deterioration, and various operational and environmental stresses, insulation defects may appear and so the cable needs to be monitored in a timely manner to avoid unexpected failures. Many of these defects are responsible for partial discharge (PD) activity. The localization of the sources of these discharges is a highly decisive facet in the condition-based monitoring of power cables. The techniques for the localization of single-PD defects in insulated power cables are well presented in the current bibliography. However, when several simultaneous PD sources are active, the localization of the sources becomes quite complex. This paper develops an efficient technique for the separation and localization of multiple PD sources in a medium voltage cable. The experimental results are obtained with single-end-based measurements using a high-frequency current transformer in a laboratory environment. The data processing based on the spectral characteristics of the signals is carried out by using the power ratios technique in order to determine the presence of different types of PD. Once the signals are separated, the PD sources can be localized with an individualized analysis of each source through time-domain reflectometry. The proposed methodology can be very valuable to improve the location diagnostic capability of the condition-based monitoring solutions, especially for underground cables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Oman tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum; family Solanaceae) is a minor crop, which is produced only for local consumption. In 2015, tobacco plants exhibiting severe downward leaf curling, leaf thickening, vein swelling, yellowing and stunting were identified in fields of tobacco in Suhar Al-Batina region, Oman. These symptoms are suggestive of begomovirus (genus Begomovirus, family Geminiviridae) infection. Methods: Circular DNA molecules were amplified from total DNA extracted from tobacco plants by rolling circle amplification (RCA). Viral genomes were cloned from RCA products by restriction digestion and betasatellites were cloned by PCR amplification from RCA product, using universal primers. The sequences of full-length clones were obtained by Sanger sequencing and primer walking. Constructs for the infectivity of virus and betasatellite were produced and introduced into plants by Agrobacterium-mediated inoculation. Results: The full-length sequences of 3 begomovirus and 3 betasatellite clones, isolated from 3 plants, were obtained. Analysis of the full-length sequences determined showed the virus to be a variant of Chilli leaf curl virus (ChiLCV) and the betasatellite to be a variant of Tomato leaf curl betasatellite (ToLCB). Both the virus and the betasatellite isolated from tobacco show the greatest levels of sequence identity to isolates of ChiLCV and ToLCB identified in other hosts in Oman. Additionally clones of ChiLCV and ToLCB were shown, by Agrobacterium-mediated inoculation, to be infectious to 3 Nicotiana species, including N. tabacum. In N. benthamiana the betasatellite was shown to change the upward leaf rolling symptoms to a severe downward leaf curl, as is typical for many monopartite begomoviruses with betasatellites. Conclusions: The leaf curl disease of tobacco in Oman was shown to be caused by ChiLCV and ToLCB. This is the first identification of ChiLCV with ToLCB infecting tobacco. The study shows that, despite the low diversity of begomoviruses and betasatellites in Oman, the extant viruses/betasatellites are able to fill the niches that present themselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The security of the information signal in digital communication systems is an active research problem. This paper proposes a new robust adaptive anti-synchronization control (RAASC) technique and studies the multi-switching combination anti-synchronization (MSCAS) of different unknown hyperchaotic (UH) systems. This controller reduces the overshoots in the transient phase and establishes the anti-synchronization convergence quickly. The proposed MSCAS scheme anti-synchronizes two master UH systems with a slave UH system using the multi-switching mechanism that increases the complexity and enhances the security of the information signal in digital communications. The Lyapunov direct method assures the robust stability of the closed-loop dynamical system. This work provides adaptive laws that estimate the true values of unknown parameters. A numerical example of three different hyperchaotic Pang, Lu and Lorenz–Stenflo systems is simulated. The simulation results verify the theoretical findings. The proposed MSCAS approach is used for the secret communication of digital messages using the chaotic masking technique. The receiver retrieves the information signal with high security and good precession qualitatively, under the effect of different types of disturbances. This paper also discusses the implications of controller constituents of the proposed RAASC algorithm that establishes fast convergence. The article suggests some future research problems related to this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Impact of electrical stresses on PD activity in the insulation defects. • Evaluation of severity of insulation defects through PD characteristic features. • Trend analysis of PD features in insulation defects by increasing electrical stresses. • Development of Tobit regression to identify the trends and to predict the PD behavior. Assessments of aging and insulation degradation in power components are important to observe and track their condition during operation. Partial discharge (PD) diagnostics is an efficient method for health estimation of the components' insulation. PD is initiated when the dielectric strength of localized insulation part is decreased. The intensity of PD increases with time, which may lead to insulation failure. This paper investigates the influence of the electrical stresses on the behavior of PD activity in medium voltage (MV) cable containing insulation defects. For this purpose, insulation defects such as internal, surface, and corona are developed in the MV cable environment under laboratory conditions. PD behavior is studied in these defects at gradually increased voltage levels by observing different PD characteristic features including PD inception voltage (PDIV), pulse repetition rate, accumulated apparent charge, average discharge current, discharge power, and quadratic rate. The Tobit regression model is developed for these progressing defects to identify the trends and to predict the behavior based on PD characteristic features. The presented work proposes a framework for the evaluation of the progression of insulation degradation due to increased electrical stress. The study is carried out on XLPE cables, however, the developed approach can be equally implemented on other types of dielectrics and components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red cotton bug, Dysdercus koenigii F. (Hemiptera: Pyrrhocoridae) is a destructive pest of cotton in the cotton belt region of Pakistan. This pest attacks the cotton bolls, mature cotton seeds and causes serious damage to premature bolls. A trial was conducted under laboratory conditions to check the predatory potential of A. coquebertii on different stages of D. koenigii. Four stages of D. koenigii i.e. 3rd, 4th, 5th nymphal instars and adults were provided to A. coquebertii adults to check their survival, fecundity response and feeding potential. Results were statistically significant when comparing feeding preferences of A. coquebertii on different stages of D. koenigii. Adult male and female longevity of A. coquebertii was significantly higher when these insects were fed with 3rd instar nymphs of D. koenigii, which was 115.25 ± 6.91 and 88.75 ± 4.64 days, respectively. Maximum egg laying percentage of 34% was recorded on medium 3 and minimum egg laying percentage of 16% was recorded on medium 2. Based on the results of this study, survival and fecundity rate of A. coquebertii can be highly affected when the suitable stage of D. koenigii is not present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has been a source of enmity between Pakistan and India since 1947. Though the incident of 9/11 pushed Kashmir issue to backburner, the year 2016 proved as a turning point for the youth of Kashmir when martyrdom of Burhan Wani imparted a new dimension to freedom struggle and gave birth to a novel identity and philosophy of 'wanism'. This article aims to review human rights violations in J&K and Pakistan's dilemma of Kashmir policy in the post 2016 era. The study highlights trouble spots while analyzing policies of PML-N and PTI governments towards Kashmir conflict. It also sheds light on Prime Minister Modi's coercive Kashmir policy and the response of key world countries about human rights violations in J&K, followed by conclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Integrally skinned composite membrane has been fabricated by employing Carboxy methyl cellulose sodium salt (CMC-Na) crosslinked by AlCl 3 and incorporated with zeolite 4A as filler coated on functionalized substrate. The separation factor of the fabricated membranes was determined for the rejection of methylene blue and Evans blue dyes. Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR) results verified the crosslinking between CMC-Na and AlCl 3 along with the hydrogen bonding among the components of composite membrane. Atomic force microscope (AFM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) was carried out for the determination and elucidation of roughness and morphology of the fabricated composite membrane. The AFM and SEM results showed the increased surface roughness with the porous and spongy like structure. The result showed a high dye selectivity of 99.9% and 98.8% for Evans blue and Methylene blue, respectively with 10 wt% zeolite content. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Integrally skinned composite membrane crosslinked via aluminum chloride was synthesized. • Zeolite 4A as a filler was employed for Evans blue and Methylene blue dye rejection. • It showed rejection of 99.9% and 98.8% for Evans blue and Methylene blue, respectively with 10 wt% zeolite content. • Morphological and topographical characteristics were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to good machinability, low weight and high specific strength, aluminum is widely used in aerospace and automotive industries. However, low mechanical strength limits its wide spread use in mainstream industries. In this study, nitriding of aluminum was performed with a stream of low energy ions in 1.8 kJ Mather type dense plasma focus (DPF) device. The axial distance from the anode tip was varied in steps to study the effect of the stream length on structural and mechanical properties of the nitrided samples. XRD and Raman analysis confirmed the formation of aluminum nitride (AlN) on the plasma exposed surface. Williamson‐Hall (W−H) study revealed significant improvement in crystallinity and strain of the nitride samples. The most favorable results on mechanical and structural properties of the nitrided samples were obtained at an axial distance of 10 cm. The improved texture and maximum dislocation density for typical AlN (311) is obtained at the optimum distance. The micro‐hardness of the nitrided samples was measured ∼4.5 times higher than the base material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Flexor tendons injuries are common emergency procedures The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency, distribution and results of treatment of acute flexor tendon injuries in zone v of hand in our population. Material and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional was conducted in the Department of Orthopedic, Gomal Medical College, D.I.Khan, Pakistan from January 2015 to December 2017. Sample size was 30, selected through consecutive technique. Patients having flexor tendon injuries in zone v, admitted through emergency department were included in this study. Demographic variable were sex and age-groups. The research variable were tendon involved, nerves involved, artery involved, mechanism of injury, wound size, duration of injury, season, type of injury, hand involved and results of treatment. All variables, being categorical were analyzed by frequency and percentages using SPSS version 16.0. Results: Out of 30 patients, 22(73.33%) were male. Twenty four (80%) patients were between 21 to 40 years age. Mechanism of injury was glass in 16(53.33%) cases, knife in 10(33.33%) cases. Twenty (66.66%) cases presented in summer. Flexor digitorum sublimus was injured in 21(70.0%), FCR in 11(36.66%), FPL in 8(26.66), FDP in 6(20.0%) and FCU in 4(13.33%) cases. Median nerve was involved in nine (30%) cases. Radial artery was involved in eight (26.66%) cases. Wound size was 2 cm in 24(80%) cases. Sixteen (53.33%) cases came with self-inflicted injuries. Twenty (66.66%) cases came after 12 hours. Twenty five (83.33%) patients achieved good to excellent results. Conclusion: Flexor digitorus sublimus was the most common tendon injured in non-dominant hand, especially in young males. Median nerve and radial artery were commonly injured structures mostly with glass. Majority patients presented more than 12 hours after injury, having wound size of 2cm. Mostly the injuries were self-inflicted and occurred in summer season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weeds are reservoirs for the survival of pathogenic microorganisms and cause of spread of infectious disease of plants through vectors. To minimize the spread of bacteria to other host crops, proper characterization is required to suggest suitable control strategy. Survey was conduct in December 2015, leaf blight was observed on barnyard grass growing in surroundings of citrus orchards located in Lahore, Pakistan. Isolation of the bacterium on nutrient agar medium was performed and their characterization based on morphological and biochemical tests. 16S rRNA was amplified directly with primers 27F/1492R, cloned and sequenced. Sequences were blast in NCBI data base which showed 99% identity to P. agglomerans strain. A neighbor-joining tree was generated with reported bacterial strain that were most closely to isolated strain P. agglomerans (LT592133). Pathogenicity test was conducted on barnyard grass with bacterial suspensions having 1.5 × 108 CFU/ml in controlled conditions to confirm Koch's postulates. According to results this is first report on the incidence of Pantoea agglomerans on Barnyard grass in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study is focused on the investigation of the main sustainability drivers that may improve production performances for Asian firms. The main objective of the paper is to unfold the potential tangible and intangible sustainability resources that can act as strategic assets in improving production performances, with the Resource-Based View as the main framework used in the study. As a further investigation, the research explores how these resources may vary under the contingency perspective by considering two different stages of implementation of Quality Management Systems within the respondents. These issues are examined through a wide survey of textile firms in India and Pakistan, using Structural Equation Modelling as the main tool of investigation. Some of the main outcomes show that Environmental Management and Safety Management result in the strategic use of resources to improve production performances. It emerges from the contingency analysis that increasing importance is given to intangible assets by those firms that are at an advanced stage of implementation of their Quality Management System. Highlights • We realize an extensive survey on the core resources that may impact on production performances for Asian firms. • A contingency analysis is made through Structural Equation Modeling, with Quality Management System as discriminant factor. • Environmental Management, Safety Management and Sustainability Awareness have a key role within a QMS. • Firms at different stages of implementing a QMS do not share the same core resources. • Social Issues and Sustainability Awareness are core resources for firms with an advanced stage of QMS implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quick recovery of the information signals in secure communications restricts the hacking duration. The short synchronization convergence time is a crucial parameter for faster recovery. This paper develops a novel nonlinear finite-time synchronization control algorithm. This controller accomplishes the global finite-time multi-switching synchronization between two externally perturbed chaotic systems in the drive-response system synchronization scheme. The proposed controller assures the global convergence of the error dynamics in finite-time based on the Lyapunov theory. This implicitly guarantees the global stability of the closed loop. This paper considers Lp(0 < p < 1) norm inequality for the construction of the Lyapunov function. This method provides a means to determine the parameters of the proposed finite-time controller. This paper also studies the significance of structural components of the proposed controller that are responsible for the finite-time synchronization convergence. Computer simulation results of ‘two identical chaotic Lorenz systems’ and ‘chaotic Lorenz and Chen systems’ validate the theoretical findings. The paper discusses the simulation results and compares them with peer works as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt bodies are important subsurface structures with significant implications for hydrocarbon accumulation and sealing in offshore petroleum reservoirs. This study presents an unsupervised workflow for delineating the surface of salt bodies from 3-D seismic surveying based on a multi-attribute |$k$| -means cluster analysis. The workflow consists of four steps. First, a suite of seismic attributes are selected and computed from the volume of original seismic amplitude, each of which separates the target salt boundaries from the surrounding non-boundary seismic features in its unique way. Second, two sets of representative samples are manually picked in an interpreter-specified vertical section to help initialize the centres of the boundary and non-boundary clusters. Third, the |$k$| -means cluster analysis is performed on the seismic attributes to generate a clustering model for volumetric processing. Finally, applying the built |$k$| -means model to every sample in the seismic volume provides us with a probability volume in which the high values indicate the presence of salt-dome boundaries. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified for interpreting the multiple salt bodies in the F3 seismic data set over the Netherlands North Sea, and the generated salt-boundary volume can serve as input for more advanced salt interpretation, such as salt surface/body extraction, to assist structural framework modelling in the subsalt zones of high geologic complexities and petroleum potentials. We conclude that the proposed workflow paves the way for computer-aided seismic interpretation in a more comprehensive manner by incorporating more advanced machine learning algorithms (e.g. artificial neural network) and targeting other important seismic structures (e.g. fault). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reliability analysis comprises statistical analysis techniques that make inferences based on life time data. Swift progress has been observed in life time data analyses during the last few decades. Accelerated life testing models are regarded as the most popular techniques for engineering life time data analysis. Their main aim is to model life times under different stress levels that are more severe than the usual stress level. The existing techniques consider life times as precise measurements and do not contemplate the imprecision of observations. In fact, life time measurements are not precise quantities but more or less fuzzy. Therefore, in addition to standard statistical tools, fuzzy model approaches are also essential. The current study generalizes some parametric and nonparametric classical estimation procedures for accelerated life testing in order to accommodate both fuzziness and random variation. The proposed estimators cover both uncertainties, which make them more applicable and practicable for life time analysis. The results of fuzzy life times are considered under various stress conditions, and comparisons with precise life time analysis are further presented in examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Class imbalance has become a big problem that leads to inaccurate traffic classification. Accurate traffic classification of traffic flows helps us in security monitoring, IP management, intrusion detection, etc. To address the traffic classification problem, in literature, machine learning (ML) approaches are widely used. Therefore, in this paper, we also proposed an ML-based hybrid feature selection algorithm named WMI_AUC that make use of two metrics: weighted mutual information (WMI) metric and area under ROC curve (AUC). These metrics select effective features from a traffic flow. However, in order to select robust features from the selected features, we proposed robust features selection algorithm. The proposed approach increases the accuracy of ML classifiers and helps in detecting malicious traffic. We evaluate our work using 11 well-known ML classifiers on the different network environment traces datasets. Experimental results showed that our algorithms achieve more than 95% flow accuracy results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To compare proportion of the patients with attainment of sensory level T4, at 5 and 10 min supine, and after 10 min prone amongst patients receiving 22.5 mg bupivacaine with those receiving 30 mg. Methods: In this randomized clinical trial patients (n=60), undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy, were included. It was done to compare the achievement of sensory level T4 during PCNL after spinal anaesthesia with two doses of bupivacaine before and after positioning patients in prone position. Patients were grouped into: Group A (22.5 mg hyperbaric Bupivacaine 0.75%) versus Group B (30 mg hyperbaric Bupivacaine 0.75%) consisting 30 patients each. Spinal anaesthesia was performed while sitting. Sensory level was checked using icecube in mid-axillary line while patients were positioned supine and prone. Results: Number of patients with T4 level at 5 min and 10 min supine in Group B was much higher than in Group A (p<0.001). In comparison of attainment of T4 level in supine and after 10 min of prone position, more number of patients achieved the level after 10 minutes of prone position in contrast to Group A and it was statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusion: Positioning in prone extends the sensory level of spinal anaesthesia to higher level (T4) when 22.5 mg of hyperbaric bupivacaine is used and hence reduced dose can be given efficiently and safely for the procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro/nanopositioning systems commonly use piezoelectric actuators due to their high stiffness, fast response and ultra-high precision. However, three main factors affect their tracking performance, namely hysteresis, creep, and structural vibrations. To overcome these limitations, this paper proposes a new combined feedback and feedforward control strategy. Unlike most existing control algorithms for micro/nanopositioning systems, the new controller is a model-free learning-based capable of smoothly tracking continuous reference signals. It is further endowed with an ability to prevent fallacious learning associated with sensor noise and reference signal discontinuities. The paper also provides complete proofs for the convergence of the tracking error and boundedness of the control signals. Experimental trajectory tracking results obtained using the proposed controller applied on a commercially available amplified piezoelectric actuator verify the theoretical findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the important geological structures that have significant geologic implications on petroleum and gas exploration in the subsurface are listric faults. The classical interpretation of listric faults is usually performed by manual picking, which is not only time consuming and labor intensive but also susceptible to interpreter bias. In this paper, we propose a texture-based interpretation workflow for the automated delineation of major listric faults in a 3D migrated seismic volume. In the first step, we compute three-dimensional gradient of texture (3D-GoT), which describes the texture dissimilarity between neighboring cubes around each voxel in a seismic volume across time or depth, crossline, and inline directions. In the second step, we calculate an adaptive global threshold and apply it to the 3D-GoT map to obtain a binary map, which highlights the probable boundary regions of the listric faults. Finally, we apply post-processing to obtained binary maps that includes morphological opening and curve fitting to yield a delineated listric fault within the migrated seismic volume. The experimental results on a real seismic dataset from the Stratton field in the Texas Gulf coast show the effectiveness of the proposed workflow indicating its great potential for assisting structural interpretation and reservoir characterization in the exploration areas dominated by listric faults as well as the associated rollover anticlines and normal faults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoid cleavage oxygenase (CCO) is an enzyme capable of converting carotenoids into volatile, aromatic compounds and it plays an important role in the production of two significant plant hormones, i.e., abscisic acid (ABA) and strigolactone (SL). The cucumber plant genome has not been mined for genomewide identification of the CCO gene family. In the present study, we conducted a comprehensive genome-wide analysis to identify and thoroughly examine the CCO gene family within the genomic sequence of Cucumis sativus L. A Total of 10 CCO genes were identified and mostly localized in the cytoplasm and chloroplast. The CCO gene is divided into seven subfamilies i.e. 3 NCED, 3 CCD, and 1 CCD-like (CCDL) subfamily according to phylogenetic analysis. Cis-regulatory elements (CREs) analysis revealed the elements associated with growth and development as well as reactions to phytohormonal, biotic, and abiotic stress conditions. CCOs were involved in a variety of physiological and metabolic processes, according to Gene Ontology annotation. Additionally, 10 CCO genes were regulated by 84 miRNA. The CsCCO genes had substantial purifying selection acting upon them, according to the synteny block. In addition, RNAseq analysis indicated that CsCCO genes were expressed in response to phloem transportation and treatment of chitosan oligosaccharides. CsCCD7 and CsNCED2 showed the highest gene expression in response to the exogenous application of chitosan oligosaccharides to improve cold stress in cucumbers. We also found that these genes CsCCD4a and CsCCDL-a showed the highest expression in different plant organs with respect to phloem content. The cucumber CCO gene family was the subject of the first genome-wide report in this study, which may help us better understand cucumber CCO proteins and lay the groundwork for the gene family's future cloning and functional investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proliferation of Internet-of-Things (IoT) technology and its reliance on the license-free Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) bands have rendered radio spectrum scarce. The IoT can nevertheless obtain great advantage from Cognitive Radio (CR) technology for efficient use of a spectrum, to be implemented in IEEE 802.11af-based primary networks. However, such networks require a geolocation database and a centralized architecture to communicate white space information on channels. On the other hand, in spectrum sensing, CR presents various challenges such as the Hidden Primary Terminal (HPT) problem. To this end, we focus on the most recently released standard, i.e., IEEE 802.11ah, in which IoT stations can first be classified into multiple groups to reduce collisions and then they can periodically access the channel. Therein, both services are similarly supported by a centralized server that requires signaling overhead to control the groups of stations. In addition, more regroupings are required over time due to the frequent variations in the number of participating stations, which leads to more overhead. In this paper, we propose a new Multiple Access Control (MAC) protocol for CR-based IEEE 802.11ah systems, called Restricted Access with Collision and Interference Resolution (RACIR).We introduce a decentralized group split algorithm that distributes the participating stations into multiple groups based on a probabilistic estimation in order to resolve collisions. Furthermore, we propose a decentralized channel access procedure that avoids the HPT problem and resolves interference with the incumbent receiver. We analyze the performance of our proposed MAC protocol in terms of normalized throughput, packet delay and energy consumption with the Markov model and analytic expressions. The results are quite promising, which makes the RACIR protocol a strong candidate for the CR-based IoT environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, cellulose acetate (CA) based thin film nanocomposite reverse osmosis (RO) membranes were fabricated using dissolution casting method by optimizing the CA/polyethylene glycol (CA/PEG-400) ratios for improved RO performance. The selectivity of optimized membrane was further enhanced by incorporating TiO 2 (0–25 wt.%) nanoparticles. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were conducted to characterize control and modified membranes for the analysis of functional groups, thermal properties, morphology and structural investigation respectively. CP-2 of CA/PEG-400 (80/20) was selected for further modification with TiO 2 nanoparticles. The maximum salt rejection (95.4%) was observed for the membrane having 15% TiO 2 nanoparticles. Further escalation of TiO 2 concentration resulted in the agglomeration of nanoparticles which subsequently decreased the permeation flux. The test results demonstrated that the modified membranes had higher salt rejection and chlorine resistance, lower degradation profile, successful inhibition of Escherichia coli growth and facilitating permeation flux compared to the control membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the recent decade, cognitive radio networks have received much attention as an alternative to the traditional static spectrum allocation policy since the licensed spectrum channels are not being used efficiently. The most critical issue of the cognitive radio networks is how to distribute the idle spectrum channels to the secondary users opportunistically. The auction-based market is desirable for the trade of idle spectrum channels since the secondary users can purchase a channel in timely manner and the licensed primary users can earn the additional profit while not using the channels. Among the auction algorithms proposed for the spectrum market, we focus on the TASG framework, which consists of two nested auction algorithms, because it enables the group-buying of spectrum channels for the secondary users with limited budgets, and possesses many positive properties such as budget-balance, individual rationality and truthfulness. However, the TASG framework is not very attractive to the market participants since the seller earns the small revenue and the buyer has the low utility. In this paper, we propose a new auction framework for the spectrum markets, called aDaptive and Economically robust Auction-based Leasing (DEAL), that keeps all the benefits of TASG while improving the utility (or revenue) of the participants. To this end, we develop an enhanced inner-auction algorithm, called the Global Auction algorithm in our DEAL framework, and adapt the involved parameters dynamically based on the previous bids from the potential buyers. Simulation results demonstrate that our framework significantly outperforms the previous TASG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor colour development on ‘Cripps Pink’ apple fruit causes serious economic losses to the growers in the warmer regions of the world. Effects of pre-harvest spray application of different concentrations (0, 50, 100, or 200 mg L −1 ) of cinnamic acid, p -coumaric acid, d -phenylalanine, l -phenylalanine, and naringenin, on red blush development on the fruit surface and accumulation of anthocyanins, dihydrochalcones, hydroxycinnamic acid, flavanols, and flavonols, in the skin of ‘Cripps Pink’ apple at commercial fruit maturity were investigated. Skin of apple fruit harvested from the trees sprayed with l -phenylalanine or cinnamic acid contained significantly higher concentrations of total anthocyanins, cyanidin 3-galactoside, and flavonols, compared to control and to those treated with other phenylpropanoids, in a dose- independent pattern. Based on tristimulus system of colour perception {i.e. chromaticity values such as L*, a*, b*, chroma (C*), and hue angle ( h °)}, a similar trend of red blush development was observed on fruit’s exterior at commercial maturity, in response to pre-harvest spray application of phenylpropanoids. The apple fruit harvested from the trees sprayed with l -phenylalanine or cinnamic acid had the highest values of a* and the lowest values of h ° for colour perception on the exposed side of apple fruit, irrespective of their doses applied, indicating a substantial trend of red blush intensification on the fruit surface. In conclusion, a single pre-harvest spray application of l -phenylalanine (100 mg L −1 ), applied 3–4 weeks prior to the anticipated commercial fruit maturity was most effective in improving red blush development, increased production of export-grade fruit, accumulation of total anthocyanins, cyanidin 3-galactoside, flavanols, chlorogenic acid and flavonols in the fruit skin, without adversely affecting the fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: In this paper, we propose a workflow based on SalSi for the detection and delineation of geological structures such as salt domes. SalSi is a seismic attribute designed based on the modelling of human visual system that detects the salient features and captures the spatial correlation within seismic volumes for delineating seismic structures. Using this attribute we cannot only highlight the neighbouring regions of salt domes to assist a seismic interpreter but also delineate such structures using a region growing method and post‐processing. The proposed delineation workflow detects the salt‐dome boundary with very good precision and accuracy. Experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed workflow on a real seismic dataset acquired from the North Sea, F3 block. For the subjective evaluation of the results of different salt‐dome delineation algorithms, we have used a reference salt‐dome boundary interpreted by a geophysicist. For the objective evaluation of results, we have used five different metrics based on pixels, shape, and curvedness to establish the effectiveness of the proposed workflow. The proposed workflow is not only fast but also yields better results as compared with other salt‐dome delineation algorithms and shows a promising potential in seismic interpretation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To compare the hemodynamic changes during induction of anesthesia with propofol and sevoflurane in children undergoing forearm orthopedic surgeries. Methods: In this descriptive study 60 pediatric patients, scheduled for forearm orthopedic surgical procedure under general anesthesia requiring LMA insertion were included. The selected patients were allocated into two groups; A (Propofol) and B (Sevoflurane) of 30 each. Group A was induced with IV Propofol 2mg/kg while Group B was induced by sevoflurane 6-8%. Anesthetic induction was supposedly achieved after loss of eyelash reflex. Results: Compared with base line, both groups showed a statistically significant decline in mean arterial pressure after induction. Propofol group (A) showed a larger transient decrease in MAP compared to sevoflurane group (B) (p<0.001). There was a statistical significant overall greater decline in MAP and heart rate after induction with propofol when compared with sevoflurane. Conclusion: Sevoflurane provides slightly better hemodynamic stability compared to propofol during anesthetic induction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistani politics is full of political rhetoric. Attractive slogans are used by leaders of political parties to inspire and set the mood of public about a particular issue. Even parliament is neglected by politicians. This political immaturity led the nation towards street politics and polarization in the society. Due to elements of intolerance in politics, leadership could not find consensus and viable solutions. The paper analyzes political rhetoric; slogan politics and role of parliament in Pakistan especially focusing on the first one year of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz's (PML-N) current government. In this context, political parties and their leaders' popular statements particularly in print media containing rhetoric and slogans to resolve two important issues i.e. electoral reforms and energy crisis has been examined. Political parties' initiatives in the form of calling attention notices, questions, resolutions, bills, motions and point of orders in the parliament have also been assessed followed by recommendations. The paper highlights that politicians generally use rhetoric and slogan politics instead of using parliament to satisfy the public on various issues. The paper recommends that political parties should enhance intellectual depth of party members and leaders so that they can effectively use the forum of parliament for resolving issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper analyses the U.S. President Donald Trump's new Afghanistan strategy. It argues that the policy is flawed as it focuses on a military approach rather than a political solution for Afghanistan. It also does not address the internal vulnerabilities of Afghanistan, especially reconstruction and nation building. Afghanistan's turmoil is essentially a product of internal dynamics of the country, which comprises of a burgeoning insurgency, ethnic and sectarian fault lines, religious extremism, rampant corruption and fragile governance institutions. The prevailing scenario is the result of more than 16 years of various military strategies employed by the US which failed to stabilise the war-ravaged country. Furthermore, suspicion and mistrust between Afghanistan and Pakistan have obstructed the peace efforts. Under the U.S. South Asia Policy, India has been given a larger role in Afghanistan while taking a dim view of Pakistan's counter terrorism efforts. It has raised serious concerns in Pakistan. Against this backdrop, the paper examines the limitations of Trump's South Asia policy, for Pakistan and what strategic adjustments the country needs to make in this scenario. It suggests dialogue among all stakeholders including the Taliban which is necessary for peace in Afghanistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to explore the importance of kinship system in tribal areas (Fazla Kach) of province Punjab, Pakistan. An exploratory research was conducted by using the qualitative research tools for data collection including key informant interviewing and participant observation as the major tools for data collection. It was revealed through data analysis that kinship system plays a central role in tribal life. Kinship system merely serves as the code of tribal life of Buzdar tribe of Fazla Kach, Punjab Pakistan. Extended family system is lead and identified by the grandfather's name who possesses the ultimate decision-making power. Kinship system plays a pivotal role to maintain social order through repressive tribal laws which are executed through Meal-Maraka (indigenous conflict resolution body). Each minimal lineage is represented by Sofaid Rish (white bearded). Furthermore, data revealed that segmentary lineage kinship is decisive in formal electoral process. Ritual and ceremonies, property inheritance, communal land holding and sheep flock herding and conflict resolution are conducted via patriarchal kinship system. Females are very active in daily chores of life yet are invisible in socio-political and economic system of the tribe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD) is the major biotic constraint to cotton production in Pakistan and northwestern India. The disease is caused by monopartite begomoviruses in association with a specific DNA satellite, Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite. The virus-betasatellite complex is also frequently associated with another DNA satellite-like molecule; an alphasatellite. A quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay to detect all three components of the monopartite begomovirus/betasatellite/alphasatellite complex which causes CLCuD was established. This was used to investigate the relationship between symptoms and virus/satellite titre. Not surprisingly the analysis showed that, overall, there was a reasonable correlation between symptom severity and virus/satellite titre − more severe symptoms usually being associated with more virus/satellite. However, cotton plants were identified with no or very mild symptoms with relatively high virus/satellite titres and plants with severe symptoms but relatively low virus/satellite titres. This may be attributed to the resistance/susceptibility of the cotton variety − tolerant plants being able to sustain a relatively high virus/satellite titre whilst exhibiting mild symptoms. The usefulness of this qPCR procedure in the screening for resistance in cotton against CLCuD is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the challenges of Muslim countries relating to their political and identity issues. It mentions the information on Qur'anic verses about hijrah and the Muslim history with focus on medieval terminologies of dar al harb (abode of warfare). It also mentions the Qur'an stands for worship, protection of human rights, and human dignity.

In many nations, including Pakistan, students in higher education use social media as a common means of communication. Even while research suggests that using social media in a classroom setting would probably improve students' academic performance, the mechanism underlying this link has not yet been fully investigated. Based on the assertions that integrating social media use is intended to increase student involvement, the purpose of this study was to examine how college students use social media and determine whether social media use has any impact on their academic performance. There are two phases to this study project. Phase I of the data collection process begins with the Top 10 universities in Pakistan being chosen at random. A structured questionnaire was used to gather data from 234 sample respondents, including social media users and non-users, in order to accomplish the study's goals. The findings show that when students use social media's knowledge-sharing capabilities, their academic performance improves. Also, the learning outcome of students who engaged in the social media facilities is more; various aspects discussed in the study revolving around social media are useful for the students, teachers, and educational institutions to enhance their academic purposes. • In this research work, an empirical study is undergone to gather information about thefeatures of social media. • The data has been collected from the 234 respondents with a set of 45 questions. • The collected data were analyzed via SEM, F-test, Descriptive statistics and correlationanalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin regeneration is hindered by poor vascularization, prolonged inflammation, and excessive scar tissue formation, which necessitate newer strategies to simultaneously induce blood vessel regeneration, resolve inflammation, and induce host cell recruitment. Concurrent deployment of multiple biological cues to realize synergistic reparative effects may be an enticing avenue for wound healing. Herein, we simultaneously deployed SDF (stromal cell-derived factor)− 1α, VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)-binding peptide (BP), and GLP (glucagon like peptide)− 1 analog, liraglutide (LG) in core/shell poly(L -lactide-co-glycolide)/gelatin fibers to harness their synergistic effects for skin repair in healthy as well as diabetic wound models in rats. Microscopic techniques, such as SEM and TEM revealed fibrous and core/shell type morphology of membranes. Boyden chamber assay and scratch-wound assay displayed significant migration of HUVECs (human umbilical vein endothelial cells) in SDF-1α containing fibers. Subcutaneous implantation of membranes revealed higher cellular infiltration in SDF-1α loaded fibers, especially, those which were co-loaded with LG or BP. Implantation of membranes in an excisional wound model in healthy rats further showed significant and rapid wound closure in dual cues loaded groups as compared to control or single cue loaded groups. Similarly, the implantation of dressings in type 2 diabetes rat model revealed fast healing, skin appendages regeneration, and blood vessel regeneration in dual cues loaded fibers (SDF-1α/LG, SDF-1α/BP). Taken together, core/shell type fibers containing bioactive peptides significantly promoted wound repair in healthy as well as diabetic wound models in rats. [Display omitted] • Core/shell electrospun PLGA/gelatin fibers were developed for skin repair. • SDF-1α, liraglutide (LG) and VEGF-binding peptide (BP) were loaded into fibers' core. • SDF-1α loaded fibers showed significant migration of HUVECs in vitro. • Dual cues-loaded fibers showed higher cellularization in subcutaneous implantation. • SDF-1α/LG and SDF-1α/BP exhibited significant healing in healthy and diabetic models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc finger-homeodomain (ZHD) proteins are mostly expressed in plants and are involved in proper growth and development and minimizing biotic and abiotic stress. A recent study identified and characterized the ZHD gene family in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) to determine their probable molecular function. ZHD genes with various physicochemical characteristics were discovered on twelve chromosomes in chilli. We separated ZHD proteins into two major groups using sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis. These groups differ in gene structure, motif distribution, and a conserved ZHD and micro-zinc finger ZF domain. The majority of the CaZHDs genes are preserved, early duplication occurred recently, and significant pure selection took place throughout evolution, according to evolutionary study. According to expression profiling, the genes were found to be equally expressed in tissues above the ground, contribute to plant growth and development and provide tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress. This in silico analysis, taken as a whole, hypothesized that these genes perform distinct roles in molecular and phytohormone signaling processes, which may serve as a foundation for subsequent research into the roles of these genes in other crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To compare variation in haemodynamics during percutaneous nephrolithotomy in spinal anaesthesia with two doses of hyperbaric bupivacaine (0.75%). Methods: In this randomized comparative study 60 patients, undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy, were included. It was done to compare the variation in haemodynamic parameters after spinal anaesthesia using two different doses of local anaesthetic before and after keeping patients in prone position. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A(n=30) (22.5 mg hyperbaric Bupivacaine 0.75%) and Group B (n=30)(30 mg hyperbaric Bupivacaine 0.75%). Spinal block was performed in sitting position. Hemodynamic measurements were carried out at different time points while patients were in supine and prone position. Results: Decrease in heart rate was significant in Group B than in Group A after 10 minutes of spinal block while in supine position (p<0.001) and the drop in heart rate was significant statistically in Group B when patients were turned to prone position (p<0.001). Systolic and diastolic blood pressures decreased in Group B at 5 and 10 minutes in supine position which further decreased following prone positioning and the decrease was highly significant statistically(p=<0.001). Conclusion: 22.5 mg of injection hyperbaric Bupivacaine is haemodynamically safer as compared to 30 mg of the same drug during spinal anaesthesia in percutaneous nephrolithotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life time data analysis is regarded as one of the significant out-shoots of statistics. Classical statistical techniques reckon life time observations as precise numbers and solely cover variation among the observations. In fact, there are two types of uncertainty in data: variation among the observations and the fuzziness. To this effect, the analysis techniques, which do not consider fuzziness and are only based on precise life time observations, use incomplete information; hence lead to pseudo results. This study aimed at generalizing parameters estimation, survival functions, and hazard rates for fuzzy life time data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background : To compare low dose peri-operative lidocaine infusion and placebo for post-operative mean pain score and mean analgesic requirement in open cholecystectomy. Methods: In this prospective randomized comparative study 120 patients, undergoing open cholecystectomy in general anaesthesia, were included. Patients were randomly allocated to either lidocaine infusion (L) or saline group (S) using systematic randomized sampling with 60 patients in each group. Patients in the lidocaine infusion group were given bolus injection of lidocaine 30 minutes before the skin incision followed by a continuous intraveonous via infusion pump whereas the patients in the saline group received 0.9% normal saline in equal volume and in the same manner. The infusion was continued throughout the surgery and was terminated 60 min after the skin closure. Results: Out of the 120 patients 34 (28.3%) were male while 86 (71.7%) were female. Mean age was 41.32±11.512 years. Both mean VAS pain score and mean analgesic requirement were found to be significantly lower in the lidocaine Group (p-values 0.04 and 0.29 respectively), as compared to controls. Conclusion: Peri-operative low dose systemic lidocaine appears to reduce pain in the immediate post-operative period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field trial was done on a medium textured soil to notice the return of wheat crop to model based applied fertilizer B. For this idea, B adsorption isotherm of the soil was developed at the Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, during 2013-14. Adsorption procedure was done by harmonizing 2.5g soil in 0.01M CaCl2 solution having diverse B doses (0, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, 0.09, 0.11, 0.13,0.15 and 0.17 mg B L-1). Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption models were applied to the data to check the sorption of B on sandy clay loam soil. Freundlich model depicted superior fitness of the sorption (r2=0.99) statistics than Langmuir model (r2=0.75). Ten B treatments (0, 0.47, 0.81, 1.42, 1.57, 1.95, 2.35, 2.66, 3.1, 3.3 kg ha-1) were applied with recommended N, P and K doses. Boron was applied at sowing time as basal dose. The results showed that there was a positive effect of fertilizer B on grains spike-1, 1000-grain weight and grain turn out however, the vegetative growth i.e. plant height, tillering and total biomass were affected non-significantly in response to B application. Regarding chemical analysis concentration of boron in both wheat straw and grains increased with B application but there was no effect of fertilizer B on NPK concentration of straw and grains. These results are very heartening; signifying that for any soil, B adsorption isotherm need to be worked out for location precise fertilizer B use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discussed integers multiple joint replenishment and joint delivery of multiple items in a supply chain comprising multiple suppliers, multiple warehouses, and multiple retailers. In contrast to the existing integers multiple coordination mechanisms, the proposed coordination mechanism allows different replenishment and delivery cycle times for the firms located at the same level of the supply chain. To do this, the basic replenishment cycle time of each warehouse is set to be an integer multiple of the basic delivery cycle time of the warehouse. This synchronization between the basic replenishment cycle time and basic delivery cycle time of the warehouse helps in coordinating replenishments and deliveries. The inclusion of joint replenishment along with joint delivery from the warehouse minimizes transportation and inventory holding cost without affecting service level. The numerical experiments have been conducted to show practical implementation and implications of the proposed integers multiple joint replenishment and joint delivery coordination mechanisms. Furthermore, the proposed integers multiple joint replenishment and joint delivery coordination mechanisms are compared with (1) integers multiple with joint replenishment but without joint delivery, (2) integers multiple without joint replenishment and joint delivery, and (3) integer powers-of-two multiple joint coordination mechanisms at various levels of input parameters. From the numerical analysis, it is evident that the proposed integers multiple joint replenishment and joint delivery coordination mechanism outperformed the existing integers multiple and integer powers-of-two multiple coordination mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ustilago tritici, a seed borne pathogen, remains dormant in seed embryo and causes loose smut disease. The present study was conducted to evaluate two inoculation methods i.e., dip inoculation and syringe inoculation to find out the better method for efficient and reproducible assessment of disease severity, disease incidence and screening of resistant wheat germplasm. Syringe inoculation was found to be better for the inoculation of heads with higher disease incidence than dip inoculation method. Twenty-seven lines were tested for their resistance against loose smut. Two lines were moderately resistant, nineteen lines susceptible and three lines were highly susceptible. Environmental conditions play an integral role in the development of loose smut disease. The relationship of temperature, humidity and rainfall with loose smut development was studied. An average temperature of 23-27 °C, relative humidity 60-90% and rainfall 0.02-1 mm rainfall were statistically most conducive for disease development. The correlation of environmental factors significantly influenced the disease development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]