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Objective This research aimed to explore and identify novel therapeutic targets for psoriasis, elucidate the underlying pathogenic mechanisms, and develop innovative drug candidates or repurpose existing drugs for effective treatment. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather current knowledge on psoriasis pathogenesis and existing treatment modalities. Various molecular targets involved in key cellular processes, signaling pathways, and immune dysregulation were identified and evaluated as potential therapeutic targets. In vitro experiments using human skin cell cultures and animal models were employed to assess the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action of developed drug candidates or repurposed drugs. Pharmacological evaluations, including bioavailability and pharmacokinetic studies, were performed to determine their potential for clinical translation. Results The study identified several promising therapeutic targets implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, including specific cytokines, immune cell subsets, and signaling pathways. Experimental findings demonstrated the efficacy of newly developed drug candidates or repurposed drugs in suppressing keratinocyte hyper proliferation, mitigating inflammation, and modulating immune responses. Pharmacological evaluations indicated favorable drug properties, including suitable bioavailability and pharmacokinetic profiles. Conclusion The research findings provide valuable insights into the pathogenesis of psoriasis and potential therapeutic targets for intervention. The identification and development of novel drug candidates or repurposing existing drugs targeting these therapeutic targets hold promise for improved treatment outcomes in psoriasis patients. Further translational research and clinical trials are warranted to validate these findings and establish their clinical efficacy and safety. The interdisciplinary approach merging pharmacology and dermatology in this study showcases the importance of collaboration and highlights the potential for developing personalized treatment strategies for psoriasis patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growing cyber-infrastructure of smart grids, the threat of cyber-attacks has intensified, posing an increased risk of compromised communication links. Of particular concern is the false data injection (FDI) attack, which has emerged as a highly dangerous cyber-attack targeting smart grids. This paper addresses the limitations of the variable dummy value model proposed in the authors previous work and presents a novel defense methodology called the nonlinear function-based variable dummy value model for the AC power flow network. The proposed model is evaluated using the IEEE 14-bus test system, demonstrating its effectiveness in detecting FDI attacks. It has been shown that previous detection techniques are unable to detect FDI attacks, whereas the proposed method is shown to be successful in the detection of such attacks, guaranteeing the security of the smart grid's measurement infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of terbinafine in comparison with itraconazole in treatment of tinea capitis. It is pertinent to mention that tinea capitis is a pronounced disease of Southern Punjab with specific prevalence in children of Bahawalpur and surroundings in prepubertal stage, which merits a definite consideration owing to inherent implications and limitations of the disease. Methods The Prospective comparative study conducted at health care centers of southern Punjab. It comprised 100 children aged 5-16 years, with clinically and mycologically confirmed tinea capitis by 10-30% KOH microscopy and by Sabouraud agar. The children randomized to 8 weeks' treatment with terbinafine or 8 weeks with itraconazole. Evaluation criteria resorted to constitute inspection of random sample of patient at 0, 2, 4 and 8-week interval. Efficacy analysis based upon pooled data and photographic documentation. Outcome determined by absence of clinical signs. Safety assessment included monitoring of the frequency and severity of adverse events (AEs). Hepatic safety of itraconazole (Azole group) determined by LFTs after 4-week treatment. Data analysis conducted with SPSS and graph pads. Result presented in tabular and pictorial form. Results There were 80 cases in both group A (Terbinafine) and group B (Itraconazole), with no tremendous contrast as far as average age, weight, pre-treatment, total sign and symptom score and number of sores. Fix was seen remarkably superior in bunch B where 70 (87.5%) cases were relieved when contrasted with bunch A where 56 (70%) cases were restored. The tolerability was likewise essentially better in bunch B, where 62 (77.5%) sufferers have either excellent or great reaction to medicate resilience as compare to bunch A where it is noticed in 42 (52.5%) sufferers. Conclusion Itraconazole manifest noteworthy benefits with regards to cure rate, time requires for rehabilitation and acceptability which appears differently in relation to terbinafine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes a novel equivalent control method for voltage source inverters (VSI) with disturbance observers (DOB) to support the symmetric and asymmetric voltage requirements of a micro-grid (MG) while also matching the MG output power requirements. The method leverages the degrees of freedom (DOF) of the VSI under symmetric and asymmetric MG voltage conditions by utilizing the mean-point voltage of the MG, which is often overlooked in literature studies due to this being grounded. The method enables the three-phase inverter to generate voltages as needed by the MG inconsistently due to changing loads in the MG circuits or phases. The method is also insensitive to disturbances because of the DOB, being part of the controller. The proposed method is validated under both the balance and imbalance voltage demands of the MG. The mean voltage of the MG is used as a set-point to be corroborated as a mean voltage at the inverter's output, in addition to active-reactive power references. The novel model is developed by augmenting the new, mean-point voltage as part of the system dynamics. The proposed method is simulated in MATLAB/Simulink® and is verified for its hardiness and effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalga–microbiome interactions are central to both health and disease of aquatic environments. Despite impressive advances in deciphering how microorganisms participate in and impact aquatic ecosystems, the evolution and ecological involvement of microalgae and the microbiome in polluted waters are typically studied independently. Here, the phycosphere (i.e., the consortia of microalgae and the related microbiome) is regarded as an independent and integrated life form, and we summarize the survival strategies exhibited by this symbiont when exposed to anthropogenic pollution. We highlight the cellular strategies and discuss the modulation at the transcriptional and population levels, which reciprocally alters community structure or genome composition for medium-term acclimation or long-term adaptation. We propose a 'PollutantBiome' concept to help the understanding of microalga–microbiome interactions and development of beneficial microbial synthetic communities for pollutant remediation. Microalga–microbiome interactions are central to aquatic environments. The phycosphere is the consortia of microalgae and the related microbiome. Molecular signals connect microalgae and their microbiome as a whole. Dynamics of community structure and horizontal gene transfer in the phycosphere facilitate midterm acclimation and long-term adaptation to pollutants. Well-designed microalga–microbiome cocktails help pollutant remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollutants present a potential source of toxicity when exposed to humans. The study was aimed at investigating the potential of Oligochaeta ramosa (Roxb.) as a hepatoprotective agent in cadmium-induced hepatotoxicity causing lipid profile disturbance. The aqueous methanolic (30 : 70 v/v) extract of O. ramosa Roxb. (AME.Or) was subjected to preliminary phytochemical analysis, whereas the antioxidant activity of its constituents was investigated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The hepatoprotective and antihyperlipidemic effects of AME.Or was investigated by dividing animals into five groups (A–E). Animals were either treated with normal saline or CdCl2 (6.5 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) followed by treatment with silymarin (100 mg/kg), or AME.Or (200 mg/kg) and AME.Or (400 mg/kg) for consecutive three weeks. Blood samples were collected, and the serum lipid profile was assessed on the 11th and 21st day of treatment. Histopathological analysis was performed after euthanization. In vitro analysis of AME.Or revealed 64% inhibition as free radicals scavenging potential during DPPH, total phenolic content (TPC) (79.92 mgGAE/g), and total flavonoids content (TFC) (38.75 mgRE/g). The group intoxicated with CdCl2 showed significantly high (p ≤ 0.05) levels of the liver function indicators and lipid profile than in the control group. The higher dose of AME.Or (400 mg/kg) significantly decreased the aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin (p ≤ 0.001), decreased total cholesterol and triglycerides (p ≤ 0.01) while significantly increased high density lipoprotein (HDL; p ≤ 0.01) as compared to the intoxicated group. The histopathological analysis of the liver revealed signs of necrosis in the intoxicated group, while AME.Or treated groups showed marked improvement. The findings accentuate the therapeutic importance of O. ramosa (Roxb.) as a hepatoprotective remedy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• BaO NRs doped PVP and g-C 3 N 4 was carried out using co-precipitation rout. • It ascribed a notable result (100 %) of RhB degradation in basic medium. • It represents the remarkable antimicrobial efficacy (0–3.05 mm) against S. aureus. • This ternary composite was proven an efficient catalyst and inactivation of S. aureus. The removal of cationic dyes from wastewater and inactivation of bacterial pathogens in mastitic milk attracted significant attention from researchers to overcome their impact on the environment and ecosystem challenges. In recent research work, the synthesis of BaO nanorods (NRs) capped with 3 wt% polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and varying quantities (2 and 4 wt%) of graphitic-carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) was carried out using an eco-friendly, low-cost co-precipitation approach. The primary objective of this study is to explore the potential application of a ternary system for the disinfection of contaminated water besides investigating its antibacterial capabilities. Adding g-C 3 N 4 and PVP to BaO enhances morphological and chemical stability, suppresses the population of charge carriers, facilitates dye degradation, and exhibits notable efficacy in antibacterial activity owing to its reduced bandgap energy. The higher concentration of g-C 3 N 4 /PVP- BaO ascribed notable results of Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation (19.3–100 %) in a basic medium rather than acidic and neutral media. A high concentration of g-C 3 N 4 nanocatalyst represents the remarkable antimicrobial efficacy (0–3.05 mm) against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The findings from molecular docking investigation indicate g-C 3 N 4 /PVP-BaO NRs suppressive effects for DNA gyrase S. aureus , which is comparable with their reported bactericidal efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Target and off-target spray depositions determine the spray's effectiveness and impact on the environment. A decisive stage in the measurement of spray deposition and drift is selecting an appropriate sampling approach under field conditions. There are various approaches available for sampling spray deposition and drift, during the evaluation of ground sprayers used for the UAV sprayer assessment, under field conditions. In this study, two sampling approaches (water-sensitive paper, and glass strip collectors) were compared to analyze spray deposition in target and off-target zones. The results showed a variation in the estimation of the spray deposits among the two applied sampling methods. The results showed that the water-sensitive paper recorded the droplet deposition in the target zone with a range from 0.049 to 4.866 µLcm−2, whereas the glass strip recorded from 0.11 to 0.793 µLcm−2. The results also showed the water sensitive paper recorded an 80.3% higher deposition than that of the glass strip at zero position during the driving flight height 2 m and flight speed 2 ms−1 (T1 treatment). It can be concluded that variation in recorded depositing is due to the sampling material. It is recommended that the confident deposition results, measurement methods and sampling approaches must be standardized for UAV sprayers according to the field conditions and controlled within artificial assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex chemical and structural arrangement of lignocellulosic biomass demand a pretreatment step to dismantle its coherent nature. The current study was designed to study H2SO4 impregnation before hydrothermal pretreatment (HP) of sugarcane bagasse for biogas production using response surface methodology based on defining factors: temperature (160, 180, 200 °C), time (5, 12, 19 min), and H2SO4 concentration (1, 2, 3% w/v). The H2SO4 impregnation had a paramount impact in combination with temperature and treatment time parameters. The lowest solid yield 12.3% was recorded in pretreatment run A-HSO (200 °C, 19 min, 3% H2SO4), up to 100% xylan removal was noted in four pretreatment runs (A-HSO; 200 °C, 19 min, 3% H2SO4, B-HSO; 200 °C, 19 min, 1% H2SO4, C-HSO; 200 °C, 5 min, 3% H2SO4, and O-HSO; 213.6 °C, 12 min, 2% H2SO4), maximum klason lignin increase in insoluble solid fraction (ISF) verified was 358.85% in pretreatment run O-HSO at 213.6 °C, while glucan content reduction (33.18–74.14%) was also observed in pretreatment runs A-HSO, C-HSO, and O-HSO. Results verified maximum methane recovery of 160.16 NmL (g TVS)−1 in pretreatment run I-SHO (180 °C, 12 min, 2% H2SO4). Microbial community analysis observed the predominance of Flavobacterium and Desulfosporosinus genera of Bacterial domain and Methanolinea of Archaea domain. H2SO4 impregnation before HP though not suitable for methane production from ISF could be employed in a biorefinery perspective to obtain valuables (chemicals and fuels) due to the production of organic acids rich liquid stream and lignin-rich solid fraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A bacterial extracellular protein efficiently reduces silver ions to AgNPs. • Characterization of AgNPs confirmed they are encapsulated with protein molecules. • Mechanism of interaction between Ag+ and protein has been proposed. • These AgNPs showed bactericidal activity to antibiotic resistant-bacteria. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have several applications in nanomedicine where the use of bacterial proteins for synthesis and capping of nanoparticles remain unstudied. Therefore, an extracellular protein of Enterobacter cloacae (SMP1) with ∼15.6 kDa size was partially purified and utilized for the synthesis of AgNPs. Synthesized AgNPs were detected by UV–vis spectrophotometer and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), cryo-scanning transmission electron microscopy (Cryo-STEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). These AgNPs were monodispersed, spherical/quasi-spherical with zeta potential (ZP) of -26.9 mV with an average size of 58.75 nm measured by DLS. The encapsulation of AgNPs with protein was confirmed by electron elemental mapping and the potential mechanism of the synthesis of protein encapsulated AgNPs is outlined. These AgNPs showed broad spectrum bactericidal activity to clinical antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This study revealed that the extracellular protein of bacteria play a vital role in the synthesis of protein-encapsulated bactericidal AgNPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precision planters are important machines in the regime of modern technological agriculture. Field conditions, seed metering system and machine operating parameters affect the pneumatic planter performance. The pneumatic planter was evaluated to determine the effect of three tillage levels (L1, L2, and L3) and four travel speeds (S1, S2*, S3 and S4). The sowing uniformity of the planter was observed with respect to the horizontal distribution of seeds within a row and described by using the precision index (Ip), the multiple index (Imult), the miss-seeding index (Imiss) and the quality of feed index (Iqf). The results revealed that the tillage levels (L) and travel speed (S) had a significant effect (p<0.05) on dependent variables. The maximum Imiss (22.12%) was observed at L1 and S4 whereas the maximum Imult was observed at L1 and S1. The mean values of missing-, multi-, quality- feed and precision indices were 5.14%, 5.833%, 89.03% and 17.85% at L3, respectively. The mean values of multi-index 17.59%, 14.44%, 12.40% and 10.18%, quality feed index 74.07%, 75.92%, 75.74% and 74.07% and precision indices 21.47%, 23.26%, 25.51% and 28.53% were at S1, S2, S3 and S4, respectively. The study showed that maize could be seeding within an acceptable precise range by bed-type pneumatic planter subjected to the proper seedbed preparation level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Osteoarticular infections in adults and children are a significant cause of elevated morbidity and may lead to restrictive mobility of various stages. Objective: Isolation and determination of the occurrence, pathomorphological and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of isolated microorganisms from the patients with osteoarticular infections. Methods: This research work was carried out at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), The University of Lahore (UOL). Pus specimens (n = 120) were gathered from patients of osteoarticular infections. Bacterial isolates were purified and identified biochemically. Antibiotic resistance of the bacterial isolates was investigated by the criterion set by Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). All experiments were run in triplicate using randomized study design. The mean, standard error and standard deviation values were determined using SPSS (v. 23.0). Results: Out of 120 samples, 111 isolated samples (93%) were tested positive for total viable count. The isolated bacterial species were observed to be Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus hemolyticus, S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Micrococcus sp., Serratia sp., Klebsiella sp., Enterobacter sp., and Proteus sp. Antibiogram results also yielded S. pyogenes and S. hemolyticus to be erythromycin resistant, while S. aureus was vancomycin resistant. E. coli and Klebsiella sp. were found to be resistant to tobramycin while Proteus and Enterobacter sp. were both sensitive to it. Conclusion: P. aeruginosa, E. coli, and S. aureus were prevalent in all groups of age, while Micrococcus and Serratia sp. were common in 16-55 years. Patient hygiene, immune health and the course of medications are all factors that should be kept in consideration while treating the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with desired physicochemical properties using a cost-effective, energy, and time efficient way is vital. In this study, we have optimized the synthesis of AgNPs through protein containing cell-free supernatant of Enterobacter cloacae (SMP1). 23 full factorial central composite design (CCD) of the response surface methodology (RSM) was used for the process optimization. Individual and mutual interaction effects of the experimental variables including temperature, pH, inoculum size, and metal concentration were investigated on the synthesis of AgNPs. Results showed the involvement of 15 kDa protein in the synthesis of AgNPs. The optimized values of pH, temperature, cell-free culture supernatant (CFCS), and metal concentration were 10, 37 °C, 10% (v/v) and 2 mM, respectively. Characterization of AgNPs using UV-Vis spectroscopy reveals surface plasmon resonance peak at 450 nm. AFM and TEM micrographs revealed oval and spherical shaped AgNPs with the size of spherical (15–44 nm) and oval (20–46 nm wide and 240–325 nm long) and zeta potential of −41.3 mV under different experimental conditions. The EDS, X-ray elemental mapping, and FTIR reviled the presence of metallic AgNPs and signatures for nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, sulfur, and functional groups of different biomolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents analysis, design and experimentation of a high voltage DC power supply (HVDCPS) with power factor correction based on LLC resonant converter. For power factor correction improvement, the proposed topology has an input rectifier with two filter capacitors, two inductors with a bus capacitor (Cbus) and a resonant tank. To prevent the reverse current flow towards the source diodes (D9 & D10) are employed. A couple of power switches are inserted in a single leg that makes a half-bridge network. To form an LLC resonance circuit, a capacitor and two inductors are connected to the primary winding of the high voltage transformer (HVT). To rectify the high frequency and high voltage, a full-bridge rectifier is inserted to secondary side of high voltage transformer (HVT). The secondary diodes always get on and off under zero current switching (ZCS) due to discontinuous conduction mode of proposed topology. It is found that due to power factor correction, less cost, lower losses and smaller size, the proposed topology achieves several major improvements over the conventional high voltage power supply. To obtain zero voltage switching (ZVS) the converter operate in a narrow frequency range. The output voltage can be varied or regulate through pulse width modulation of power switches. Due to ZVS and ZCS, the proposed topology has minimum switching losses and therefore higher efficiency. To verify the feasibility of the proposed topology a prototype is being implemented and verified by simulation & experimental results for 1.5KV prototype of the proposed topology. The results make sure the achievement, good efficiency and successful operation of the proposed topology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For granular materials, discrete element modeling is one of the best computer tools to simulate their behavior and interactions. A field experiment was carried out to evaluate the performance of disc furrow openers in paddy soil. Discrete element simulation was done to develop a 3D DEM model for notched, toothed and double disc furrow openers using EDEM software. Hertz Mindlin contact model with bonding was applied for simulation to fulfill the obligations of the soil moisture and bonding between the cohesive particles. Simulated and field experimental data were compared to determine the applicability in the different working conditions. The results of the simulation validated the applicability of the Hertz-Mindlin contact model with bonding to simulate the no till paddy soil using an extremely narrow tillage tool. The calibrated value of normal and shear stiffness was 5x107 N/m, and the calibrated value of bond normal and shear strength was 3x107 Pa. The relative error (-1.7% to 20.6%) for the double disc furrow opener was lower as compared with that notch typed (29.2% to 44.4%) and toothed type (31.5% to 45.9%) furrow openers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was planned to explore the relationship between soil chemistry with bacterial population of Bt and non-Bt cotton and their phenotypic and molecular characteristics. The pre-plant soil and rhizospheres of Bt and non-Bt cotton were collected and analyzed for some soil parameters and bacterial population. The bacterial isolates were analyzed for their morphological, biochemical, and molecular characteristics. Bacterial population showed a significant (p < 0.05) positive correlation with clay content, electrical conductivity, organic matter, total nitrogen, and available phosphorus and potassium negative with correlation with pH. Bt cotton showed a non-significant effect on the soil parameters, significant decrease in bacterial population, change in the morphological and biochemical characteristics of rhizobacteria and replacement of four bacterial species with five new ones suggests the potential effect of Bt cotton on its rhizoflora. The rhizosphere of non-Bt cotton cultivated in the fertile agriculture field was found to be the best for bacterial growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of plant-bacterial association is a promising approach for the enhanced remediation of pesticides. Generally, both rhizo- and endosphere bacteria assist their host plants to survive in the contaminated environment. In this work, we have studied the individual and combined effects of wheat (Triticum aestivum) and a previously optimized bispyribac sodium (BS) degrading bacterial consortium (BDAM) on the degradation of BS and plant biomass production. Results showed that the bacterial strains of the BDAM have successfully survived in the plant rhizo-as well as endosphere and enhanced degradation of BS and plant biomass. In soil spiked with 2 mg/kg and 5 mg/kg of BS and was planted and inoculated with BDAM (P_I) showed 100% degradation of BS both in rhizosphere soil and endosphere of the plant. However, during the same period (45 days) the degradation of BS was 96 and 90%, and 93 and 84% in inoculated but un-planted (I_UP) and planted but un-inoculated (P_UI) soils spiked with 2 and 5 mg/kg, respectively. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis of the treated samples showed novel degradation products of BS. Based on the results, we concluded that plant-bacterial association is an efficient tool for enhanced remediation of BS contaminated soil and herbicide free crop production. Image 1 • Plant-bacterial partnership is an efficient approach for the remediation of BS contaminated sites. • Inoculation of BDAM has increased plant biomass and removal of BS. • Bacterial strains of BDAM survived in the rhizo- and endosphere W2. • Novel degradation products of BS were detected, and a degradation pathway has been proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic co-digestion (AD) of Cynodon dactylon grass and cow dung was conducted with four different composition levels. To increase lignocellulose digestibility and methane yield, grass was pretreated with NaOH and thermally-modified bentonite was used to inhibit the ammonia production. The highest cumulative methane yield obtained from treatments C (0.40:0.60), D (0.60:0.40), and B (0.20:0.80) was 427 mL/g.VS, 333 mL/g.VS, and 303 mL/g.VS, respectively, over a digestion period of 40 days at a mesophilic temperature. Treatment C showed an 89.7% increase in the methane yield with respect to the control, followed by treatment D, which recoded a 48% increase, and treatment B at a 34.6% increase. A modified Gompertz model was used to explain the methane generation scenario. The process stability parameters of the anaerobic co-digestion system, such as pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD), electrical conductivity (EC), total solids, total and free ammonia contents, and volatile solids removal were explained in depth in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• BDAM inoculation resulted in removal of BS from contaminated soil. • The consortium BDAM inoculation has significantly enhanced plant growth. • Strains of the consortium BDAM colonized in plant rhizo- and/or endosphere. • Plant-bacterial association proved to be effective for remediation of BS contaminated soil. Plant-bacterial mutualism has tremendous potential for remediation of herbicide contaminated soils. Generally, bacterial inoculation helps plants to grow well in the contaminated environment. Here, we investigated the impact of bispyribac sodium (BS) degrading bacterial consortium (BDAM) on BS remediation, plant growth promotion and BS accumulation in plant parts. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) was planted in BS spiked soil and inoculated with BDAM. Inoculation showed a beneficial effect on plant biomass production and degradation of BS in the rhizosphere and the rhizosheath. After 40 and 60 days of inoculation, the degradation of BS was more than 96% and approximately 100% respectively in the planted and inoculated soil spiked with 2 and 5 mg kg−1 BS. However, in planted and un-inoculated soil, the degradation of BS was 72% after 60 days of sowing. Furthermore, inoculated bacterial strains colonized both in rhizo- and endosphere of the inoculated plants. In comparison with the un-inoculated soil, significantly less accumulation of BS was found in the roots and shoots of the plants growing in inoculated soil. We report the efficiency of plant-bacterial partnership for enhanced biodegradation of BS and to eliminate the BS residual toxicity to non-target plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Proposes a novel ANN based state estimator for distribution networks. • The algorithm is capable to self train and generates state estimates. • The performance of proposed estimator is validated for various network conditions. • Tested on two standard IEEE distribution networks and a real life distribution network. Abstract State estimation is fundamental to energy management systems (EMS) employed in control centers for transmission system networks. However, the automation of power grid requires extension of state estimation to distribution networks, which are yet not observable through the available set of measurement units. In this paper, a novel state estimator based on artificial neural network (ANN) is proposed for obtaining the state of the distribution network despite of the low measurement availability. The proposed estimator was tested for IEEE test distribution networks (33-bus and 69-bus), and for a practical 48-bus Danish network under diverse network conditions such as normal system operation, distributed-generator (DG) connection/disconnection (topology variation), load variation and bad data. Results obtained are promising, which shows the viability of the developed estimator for practical distribution networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbially synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles (FeONPs) hold great potential for biomedical, clinical, and environmental applications owing to their several unique features. Biomineralization, a process that exists in almost every living organism playing a significant role in the fabrication of FeONPs through the involvement of 5–100 nm sized protein compartments such as dodecameric (Dps), ferritin, and encapsulin with their diameters 9, 12, and ∼32 nm, respectively. This contribution provides a detailed overview of the green synthesis of FeONPs by microbes and their applications in biomedical and environmental fields. The first part describes our understanding in the biological fabrication of zero-valent FeONPs with special emphasis on ferroxidase (FO) mediated series of steps involving in the translocation, oxidation, nucleation, and storage of iron in Dps, ferritin, and encapsulin protein nano-compartments. Secondly, this review elaborates the significance of biologically synthesized FeONPs in biomedical science for the detection, treatment, and prevention of various diseases. Thirdly, we tried to provide the recent advances of using FeONPs in the environmental process, e.g. detection, degradation, remediation and treatment of toxic pesticides, dyes, metals, and wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) with their diverse physical and chemical properties have been applied in various biomedical domains. The increasing demand for MNPs has attracted researchers to develop straightforward, inexpensive, simple, and eco-friendly processes for the enhanced production of MNPs. To discover new biomedical applications first requires knowledge of the interactions of MNPs with target cells. This review focuses on plant and microbial synthesis of biological MNPs, their cellular uptake, biocompatibility, any biological consequences such as cytotoxicity, and biomedical applications. We highlighted the involvement of biomolecules in capping and stabilization of MNPs and the effect of physicochemical parameters particularly the pH on the synthesis of MNPs. Recently achieved milestones to understand the role of synthetic biology (SynBiol) in the synthesis of tailored MNPs are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The ubiquitous phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase enzymes in plants play pivotal role during carbon metabolism in photosynthesis, physicochemical processes, and tolerance to various abiotic or chemical stresses. We are presenting a bioinformatics identification of PEPC gene family in tomato and its phylogenetic classification into PTPC and BTPC sub families. Tomato PEPC genes are distributed in four different chromosomes with a unique motif and gene structure that strengthen their classification into two sub families. Identification of twelve different cis-regulatory elements related to abiotic and exogenous phytohormones showed their diverse role. Moreover, RNA-seq and qRT-PCR based tissues specific analysis revealed their role in its growth and development. In tomato, PEPC genes exhibited a diverse temporal expression under salt, cold and exogenous phytohormones. For an instance, SlPEPC1 , SlPEPC4 , and SlPEPC5 was upregulated under salt, drought, ABA, and JA in shoots. While, SlPEPC3 , SlPEPC4 , and SlPEPC5 was induced in root tissues upon exposure to drought, cold, and GA. Similarly, the enzyme activity of tomato PEPC was significantly upregulated under all these stresses but peaked under salt and IAA in roots and under GA in leaves. All tomato PEPC predicted in cytoplasm and the transient expression assay validate it. Our study insight into unique features of PEPC gene family in tomato and may sever as foundation for functional their studies. Highlights • Five PEPC identified in tomato genome are classified into two subfamilies by phylogenetic analysis. • All PEPC genes display a unique characteristic genes motif and gene structure features validating its classification. • Tomato PEPC genes show tissue specific expression pattern. • The expression level of tomato PEPCs were affected by exogenous phytohormone stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract FK506-protein also called FKBP protein belongs to PPIase (peptidylprolylcis-trans isomerase) super family of immune suppressive drugs that act as molecular protein chaperones. In plants, FKBPs are ubiquitous and involved in various biological and physiological processes like plant germination, development, stress response and hormonal signaling. Here, we identified 24 FKBP family genes in tomato by using different tools and bioinformatic approaches. The specific structure, domain organisation, cis-regulatory elements, phylogenetic analysis, multiple sequence alignment, tissue-specific expression patterns and expression under abiotic and phytohormone stresses of all genes were investigated. The genes are clustered on ten tomato chromosomes and are categorised into two sub-classes; single and multiple domains protein gene. One of the main features of tomato FKBPs is their large fractions localized in chloroplast (in silico analysis) and clustered together phylogenetically. Tissue-specific expression analysis using available RNA-seq data revealed the spatiotemporal expression of the FKBPs , but few genes were observed with relatively high expressions in certain developmental stages. However, the quantitative expression profile of all genes under hormone stress provided a supporting evidence for their potential role in hormone signal pathways. Our prediction not only providing the foundation for better understanding the complex physiological regulation of FKBP gene family in tomato but also providing the potential aids to accelerate tolerance and survival in tomato under stressful condition. Highlights • A total of 24 tomato FKBP genes were identified. • Bioinformatics analysis of FKBP gene family in tomato plant • The transcript levels in seedlings revealed that several genes involved in abiotic stress • Expression profiling of 24 candidate tomato FKBP genes in various tissues [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Price hikes in conventional fuels coupled with sustainability concerns result into growing attraction towards lignocellulosic biomass conversion to biofuels. The hydrothermal pretreatment (HP) impact on structural characteristics of biomass and released inhibitory compounds linked to anaerobic digestion represent a knowledge gap and requires a critical review. In this review, HP chemistry, different hydrothermal processing techniques, inhibitory compounds production mechanism in the hydrolysate, and the impact of pretreatment parameters on biological conversion efficiency in products of biotechnological interest are discussed. Countercurrent flow-through hydrothermal reactor was found a better choice for high carbohydrate concentration in the hydrolysate. Anaerobic digestion is discussed in response to HP and morphological changes in biomass associated with lignin dissolution. Finally, literature previously published for techno-economic and environmental analysis pertinent to HP linked to anaerobic digestion process has been summarized and concluded that it requires much research for the decision makers. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • Various hydrothermal processing techniques were reviewed exclusively for anaerobic digestion. • Impact of hydrothermal processing on various fractions was reviewed with particular reference to anaerobic digestion. • Process parameters of hydrothermal liquefaction, gasification, and carbonization were reviewed. • Techno-economic considerations of hydrothermal techniques and life cycle assessment were presented. • Inevitability of research on economic perspectives of hydrothermal processing pertinent to anaerobic digestion is debated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bispyribac sodium (BS), is a selective, systemic and post emergent herbicide used to eradicate grasses and broad leaf weeds. Extensive use of this herbicide has engendered serious environmental concerns. Hence it is important to develop strategies for bioremediation of BS in a cost effective and environment friendly way. In this study a bacterial consortium named BDAM, comprising three novel isolates Achromobacter xylosoxidans (BD1), Achromobacter pulmonis (BA2), and Ochrobactrum intermedium (BM2), was developed by virtue of its potential for degradation of BS. Different culture conditions (temperature, pH and inoculum size) were optimized for degradation of BS by the consortium BDAM and the mutual interactions of these parameters were analysed using a 2 3 full factorial central composite design (CCD) based on Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The optimal values for temperature, pH and inoculum size were found to be 40 °C, 8 and 0.4 g/L respectively to achieve maximum degradation of BS (85.6%). Moreover, the interactive effects of these parameters were investigated using three dimensional surface plots in terms of maximum fitness function. Importantly, it was concluded that the newly developed consortium is a potential candidate for biodegradation of BS in a safe, cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

State estimation (SE) is well-established at the transmission system level of the electricity grid, where it has been in use for the last few decades and is a most vital component of energy management systems employed in the monitoring and control centers of electric transmission systems. However, its use for the monitoring and control of power distribution systems (DSs) has not yet been widely implemented because DSs have been majorly passive with uni-directional power flows. This scenario is now changing with the advent of smart grid, which is changing the nature of electric distribution networks by embracing more dispersed generation, demand responsive loads, and measurements devices with different data rates. Thus, the development of distribution system state estimation (DSSE) tool is inevitable for the implementation of protection, optimization, and control techniques, and various other features envisioned by the smart grid concept. Due to the inherent characteristics of DS different from those of transmission systems, transmission system state estimation (TSSE) is not applicable directly to DSs. This paper is an attempt to present the state-of-the-art on DSSE as an enabler function for smart grid features. It broadly reviews the development of DSSE, challenges faced by its development, and various DSSE algorithms. Additionally, it identifies some future research lines for DSSE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

State estimation is an integral component of energy management systems used for the monitoring and control of operation of transmission networks worldwide. However, it has so far not yet been widely adopted in the distribution networks due to their passive nature with no active generation. But this scenario is challenged by the integration of distributed generators (DGs) at this level. Various static and dynamic state estimators have been researched for the transmission systems. These cannot be directly applied to the distribution systems due to their different philosophy of operation. Thus the performance of these estimators need to be re-evaluated for the distribution systems. This paper presents a computational and statistical performance of famous static estimator such as weighted least squares (WLS) and dynamic state estimators such as extended Kalman filter (EKF) and unscented Kalman filter (UKF) for electric distribution system. Additionally, an improved-UKF (IUKF) is also proposed which enhances the robustness and numerical stability of the existing UKF algorithm. All the estimators are tested for load variation and bad data for IEEE-30, 33 and 69 bus radial distribution networks using statistical performance metrics such as Maximum Absolute Deviation (MAD), Maximum Absolute Percent Error (MAPE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Overall Performance index (J). Based on these metrics, IUKF outperforms other estimators under the simulated noisy measurement conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cd-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures with a standard formulation Z n (1 − x) C d x O (x = 0%, 3%, 6%, and 10%) were fabricated by a co-precipitation technique. The structural and morphological analyses were studied using x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The Study of x-ray diffraction investigation indorses the existence of a wurtzite structure with a P 6 3 mc space group in all the samples. Impedance spectroscopy, dielectric measurements, and electrical conductivity at different temperatures of 300–460 K with a frequency range from 20 Hz to 2 MHz were performed using an impedance LCR meter. The complex impedance spectrum (Z ´ ´ v s Z ´) for all samples were fitted with a parallel bulk resistance (R b) and capacitance (C b) combination circuit. The results of the dielectric measurements indicate that the parameters ε ´ , ε ´ ´ , and tanδ are reduced with the increasing frequency and increase with temperature. The complex electric modulus plots (M ´ , M ´ ´ ) with frequency have explained the non-Debye type of relaxations mechanism due to interfacial and depolarization. The variation of ac (σ a c) conductivity with Cd concentration indicates a gradual increase because the impedance values with Cd-doped decrease. It is confirmed that the activation energies decrease with the doping of Cd concentration. Moreover, ac conductivity was then investigated by Jonscher's power law. Finally, the temperature-dependent exponent s fitted well with the correlated barrier hopping (CHB) conduction. [Display omitted] • Cd-doped ZnO nanoparticles with different concentrations were fabricated by the co-precipitation method. • XRD studies revealed the incorporation of Cd into ZnO lattice. • Nyquist plots suggested the negative temperature coefficient of resistance behaviour. • The influence of Cd-doping on the electrical behaviour of ZnO was reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fuzzy algorithm was designed for the evaluation of wheat straw mechanical properties such as shear strength, bending strength and young's modulus under influence of moisture contents and loading rates. Wheat straw mechanical properties were measured under controlled moisture contents, i.e. 9.5%, 15.1% and 22.8%, on distinguished internode positions, i.e. IN1, IN2 and IN3 (first, second and third internode, respectively), and with three loading rates, i.e. 10, 20 and 30 mm/min, respectively during year 2013. The results showed that moisture content, loading rate at various internode regions significantly (P<0.05) influenced the shear strength, bending strength and young's modulus. Shear strength (yang mai 16, verity) increased with escalating moisture content and loading rate toward third internode. Whereas bending strength and young's modulus dropped off with the raise of moisture content and loading rate in the direction of the third internode. The proposed mamdani min- max 27 rule based fuzzy model was evaluated with a sub data set from experimental results. Coefficients of determination of relationships for shear strength, bending strength and young's modulus were 0.96, 0.92 and 0.75j, respectively, indicating that the fuzzy logic algorithm for mechanical properties prediction of wheat straw could be regarded as an substitute under the selected experimental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standard statistical procedures often require data to be normally distributed and the results of these methods will be inappropriate when the assumption of normality is not satisfied. Therefore, the postulation of normality is strictly required before proceeding statistical analysis. Although a number of criteria's have been available to assess the assumption of normality, but these tests do not have the same nature and power to diagnose the departures of a data set from normality, thus the choice of appropriate test always remains a key importance in the assessment of normality assumption. In the present study, power comparison of twelve standard normality tests was examined using simulated data generated from four distributions; Cauchy, Exponential, Weibull and Logistic under different sample sizes by using R codes. Results showed that under logistic distribution data, Geary test was observed most powerful test at the 5 % level of significance and Jarque Bera test at the 1 % level of significance. Under alternate Cauchy distribution, Shapiro Francia test performs well at the 5 % level of significance while at the 1 % level of significance, Shapiro Francia, Anderson Darling, Cramer von mises and Watson tests equally observed the power of a test. Shapiro Wilk test was highlighted as a more powerful test for data generated under Weibull distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation tillage is an energy efficient and low cost tillage system to improve soil environment compared with conventional tillage systems. However, the rice residue management becomes an “impossible to achieve” task due to high soil moisture content at harvest time and the thickness of rice straw. Disc type furrow openers are used for both seed drilling as well as straw cutting during no tillage sowing. A study was conducted to evaluate the draft requirement and straw cutting performances of different sized furrow openers in no-till paddy soil conditions. Double disc furrow opener was tested on an in-field traction bench for three working depths, i.e. 30, 60 and 90 mm, and three forwarding speeds, i.e. 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 m/s. The draft and vertical forces on the disc were recorded with load cells. These sensors were connected to a data acquisition system developed with hardware and software. The results revealed that the size of the furrow opener, operating depth and the forwarding speed had significant effects (P<0.05) on the horizontal and vertical forces, and the straw cutting performance. Mean values of the draft were 648.9, 737.2 and 784.6 N for the opener with diameters of 330, 450 and 600 mm respectively, and the vertical forces for similar openers were 904.7, 1553.9 and 1620.4 N, respectively. Furthermore, the mean straw cutting efficiencies for the double disc opener with diameters of 330, 450 and 600 mm were 39.36, 78.47 and 65.46%, respectively. The opener with 450 mm diameter provided higher straw cutting efficiency as compared to 600 mm diameter disc, while lowest straw cutting efficiency was observed with 330 mm diameter disc. The 450 mm diameter opener provided the highest straw cutting efficiency (88.6%) at 90 mm working depth and expressed optimum performance compared with other furrow openers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the hypothesis that in hypertensive diabetic rats hydrogen sulphide (H2S) reduces blood pressure through diuretic action in addition to its vasodilating effect. Methods: Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats were used. SHR were divided into three groups: SHR (II), SHR diabetic (III), and SHR diabetic NaHS-Treated (IV) with a group of WKY (I) rats serving as normotensive nondiabetic control. Diabetes was produced in two SHR groups using intraperitoneal streptozotocin (STZ). One diabetic group received NaHS, a donor of H2S (56 μM/kg i.p.) daily for five weeks. Blood pressure was measured in conscious and anesthetized states in surgically prepared animals. Plasma and urinary H2S levels and electrolytes were measured weekly throughout the 35-day period. Results: SHR and diabetic SHR had higher blood pressure and lower plasma and urinary H2S levels compared to WKY controls (p < 0.05). Moreover, the SHR diabetic group had higher plasma sodium, higher absolute and fractional sodium excretions (p < 0.05) but with similar blood pressure compared to SHR controls. NaHS treatment reduced blood pressure and restored H2S and plasma sodium (p < 0.05) levels. Moreover, SHR diabetic-NaHS treated group had higher urine output and absolute urinary sodium excretion compared to the untreated SHR diabetic group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: These results suggest a possible diuretic effect of exogenous H2S in spontaneously hypertensive diabetic rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress and suppressed H2S production lead to increased renal vascular resistance, disturbed glomerular hemodynamics, and abnormal renal sodium and water handling, contribute to the pathogenesis and maintenance of essential hypertension in man and the spontaneously hypertensive rat. This study investigated the impact of H2S and tempol alone and in combination on blood pressure and renal hemodynamics and excretory functions in the SHR. Groups of WKY rats or SHR ( n = 6) were treated for 4 weeks either as controls or received NaHS (SHR + NaHS), tempol (SHR + Tempol), or NaHS plus tempol (SHR + NaHS + Tempol). Metabolic studies were performed on days 0, 14, and 28, thereafter animals were anaesthetized to measure renal hemodynamics and plasma oxidative and antioxidant markers. SHR control rats had higher mean arterial blood pressure (140.0 ± 2 vs. 100.0 ± 3 mmHg), lower plasma and urinary H2S, creatinine clearance, urine flow rate and urinary sodium excretion, and oxidative stress compared to WKY (all p < 0.05). Treatment either with NaHS or with tempol alone decreased blood pressure and oxidative stress and improved renal hemodynamic and excretory function compared to untreated SHR. Combined NaHS and tempol therapy in SHRs caused larger decreases in blood pressure (∼20-22% vs. ∼11-15% and ∼10-14%), increases in creatinine clearance, urinary sodium excretion and fractional sodium excretion and up-regulated the antioxidant status compared to each agent alone (all p < 0.05). These findings demonstrated that H2S and tempol together resulted in greater reductions in blood pressure and normalization of kidney function compared with either compound alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Co-precipitation method was utilized to synthesize Ni-doped ZnO nanostructures. • The structural properties of materials were studied, through XRD and FE-SEM. • Enhancement of ac conductivity with Ni-doping was noticed. • Higher dielectric constants are useful in high-frequency switching applications. • High dielectric constant and loss tangent play main roles in microwave devices. • Bandgap decreased with increase in Ni content. A low cost and low-temperature co-precipitation process was used to synthesize zinc oxide(ZnO) nanoparticles. The synthesized sample was characterized by x-ray diffraction(XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), FTIR and UV–visible spectrum at room temperature. The electrical properties at a low-temperature range between 140 K and 280 K are also reported. The dielectric parameters and the complex impedance spectra were analyzed in the frequency range from 20 Hz to 2 MHz at a low temperature ranging from 140 K to 280 K. The AC conductivity was estimated using measured dielectric parameters. The application of universal Jonscher's power law plots showed that the Correlation Barrier Hopping(CBH) mechanism is responsible for the conduction in ZnO nanoparticles. The complex electrical modulus and complex impedance spectroscopy proposed the temperature-dependent relaxation processes. The estimated minimum hopping distance (R min) and the binding energy (W m) as a function of temperature are also reported for ZnO nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phosphorus-use efficiency of crops in high pH soil is low. A randomized complete block design in a 3 × 2 split-plot experiment was conducted on a high pH silt loam (Typic Ustochrepts) to evaluate whether P-solubilizing microbial (PSM) inocula were able to improve the P fertilization effects on irrigated cotton (Gossypium hirsutumL., cultivar CIM-482). Cotton was planted after seed treatment with PSM inoculation at 0, 22 and 44 kg P ha−1. Results showed that soil microbial populations were significantly higher throughout the cotton-growing season in response to P fertilization and PSM inoculation. Both P fertilization and PSM inocula exerted a significant effect on cotton biomass and Puptake without an interaction. Economic analyses suggest that PSM inocula alone significantly increased P-use efficiency (8%), reduced cost and improved net income (by $36 ha−1) of irrigated cotton production. Moreover, the relationship between relative yield and P fertilization with PSM inocula showed that 95% of the maximum yield of cotton was produced at 22 kg P ha−1, whereas in the absence of PSM inocula, 95% relative yield was obtained at 36 kg P ha−1, asaving of ∼39% applied P with PSM inoculation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: The combined use of plants and associated microorganisms has great potential for remediating soil contaminated with organic compounds such as pesticides. The objective of this study was to determine whether the bacterial inoculation influences plant growth promotion and chlorpyrifos (CP) degradation and accumulation in different parts of the plant. Ryegrass was grown in soil spiked with CP and inoculated with a pesticide degrading bacterial strain Bacillus pumilus C2A1. Inoculation generally had a beneficial effect on CP degradation and plant biomass production, highest CP degradation (97%) was observed after 45days of inoculation. Furthermore, inoculated strain efficiently colonized in the rhizosphere of inoculated plant and enhanced CP and its primary metabolite 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCP) degradation. There was significantly less CP accumulation in roots and shoots of inoculated plants as compared to uninoculated plants. The results show the effectiveness of inoculated exogenous bacteria to boost the remediation of CP contaminated sites and decrease levels of toxic pesticide residues in crop plants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The coexistence of hypertension and diabetes results in the rapid development of nephropathy. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is claimed to control the vascular and renal functions. This study tested the hypothesis that exogenous H2S lowers the blood pressure and decreases the progression of nephropathy in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) that were diabetic. Eighteen SHR were divided into three groups: SHR, SHR diabetic, and SHR diabetic treated with a group of Wistar-Kyoto rats serving as normotensive nondiabetic control. Diabetes was induced with streptozotocin (STZ) in two groups and one diabetic group received sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS), a H2S donor for 5 weeks. Blood pressure was measured in conscious and anesthetized states and renal cortical blood perfusion in acute studies. Plasma and urinary H2S levels, creatinine concentrations, and electrolytes were measured on three different occasions throughout the 35-day period. Diabetic SHR had higher blood pressure, lower plasma and urinary H2S levels, and renal dysfunction as evidenced by increased plasma creatinine, creatinine clearance, and decreased urinary sodium-to-potassium ratio and renal cortical blood perfusion. NaHS reduced blood pressure, increased H2S levels in plasma and urinary excretion, and reversed the STZ-induced renal dysfunction. The findings of this study suggest that the administration of exogenous H2S lowers the blood pressure and confers protection against the progression of STZ-induced nephropathy in SHR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of tri- and diorganotin(IV) complexes of the general formula R4-nSnLn (where R=CH3, C4H9, C6H6, C7H7, n=1, 2 and HL=5-benzoyl-α-methyl-2-thiopheneacetic acid) have been sythesized by the reaction of tri- and diorganotin- (IV) chloride(s) with the silver salt of the ligand in CHCl3 solution. All of the compounds have been characterized by IR, conductance measurement, multinuclear (1H, 13C, 119Sn) NMR, UV-Vis and mass spectrometery. An X-ray crystal structure of the representative compound (CH3)3SnL confirms a trigonal bipyramid around the tin atom, having the space group P21/a with a monoclinic crystal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complexes of the composition R4-nSnLn (R=Me, Et, Bu, Ph, Bz, n=1 and 2, and L=2-(6-methoxynaphthyl)propionic acid anion have been synthesized by the reaction of tri- and diorganotin halides with the silver salt of 2-(6-methoxynaphthyl)propionic acid in dry chloroform. Conductance data show that the complexes are non-electrolytes. Structural assignments were made on the basis of spectral studies (FTIR, 1H, 13C, 119Sn NMR, mass and UV-Vis spectroscopy). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In South Asia, Pakistan is contributing to the highest childhood mortality, including infant mortality. Child mortality has been declined globally, but Pakistan is still struggling and far behind the targets of Sustainable Development Goals. There are several reasons behind high childhood mortality, including socioeconomic determinants and a lack of effective implementation of health-related policies, particularly in primary health care settings. In the present study, we use the stochastic univariate models to uncover the trend of infant mortality by using more than half of the century data from 1960-2017. The secondary data on infant mortality rate from 1960 to 2017 was extracted from World Bank Dataset. Descriptive and time series analysis were applied by using the programming language R. The median infant mortality rate was 109 per 1,000 live births, whereas a higher mortality rate (189.8/1000) was reported in 1960. A gradual decline in infant mortality rates is experienced every year. The mortality rate went down below 100/1,000 live births from 1993 and remained 61.2/1,000 in 2017. ARIMA (1, 2, 2) is an adequate forecasting model selected by using the Auto ARIMA function with a root mean square error is 0.1006. Five years ahead forecast is obtained and yielded that infant mortality rate is expected to remain in 2018 [59.54, C.I (59.34 - 59.73)], 2019 [57.93, C.I (57.47 - 58.40)], 2020 [56.39, C.I (55.48 - 57.30)], 2021 [54.90, C.I (53.35 - 56.45)] and 2022 [53.47, C.I (51.05 - 55.88)]. The decreasing trend is expected in the infant mortality rate in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Deposition of droplet increased with decrease in flight altitude and speed. • Droplet density and coverage decrease with the increase of flight speed and altitude. • D 0.5 increased with the decrease in flight spread and altitude. • More than 90% deposition accrues in the target zone using single rotor UAV sprayers. Droplet size, weather conditions and operational parameters of sprayers also affect the spray coverage, absorption attachment to the target. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) currently, is considered a modern spraying technology which is helpful for efficient spraying. However, the effect of operational parameters on deposition in target and off-target zones still required to determine. Field tests were conducted to determine spray deposition, the number of spray deposits, coverage and droplet size under various flight heights (2 and 3 m) and flight speed (2 and 3 m/s) for control of outer field control. DepositScan software was applied to determine the spray deposition, number of deposits, coverage and droplet diameter. The results showed that the average deposition (2.29 µL/cm2) in the target area was found the highest when the UAV operates with 2 m/s forward speed at 2 m height (T 1), the spray coverage under the T 1 treatment achieved 36.19% at zero position of the central flight line. At the flight central line, the relative span was 0.70, 1.01, 1.03 and 1.05 for treatments T 1 , T 2 , T 3 and T 4 respectively. The treatment T 1 showed maximum VMD = D 0.5 as 448.75 µm whereas T 4 showed minimum D 0.5 with a value of 238.95 µm. The deposition in the off-target zone was nearly negligible for single-rotor UAV. This study provides a recommendation UAV operators, farmers and manufacturers for better utilization of this modern technology for weed control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Three highly efficient bacterial strains capable of silver removal were isolated from silver mining site and characterized. • The RSM is a powerful tool for optimizing the operational conditions for silver removal by bacterial isolates. • Among three strains, Enterobacter cloacae alone can remove up to 100% of added silver and synthesized AgNPs. • The synthesized AgNPs were recovered through centrifugation and by applying external voltage directly from the crude mixture. • UV-vis spectroscopy, DLS, SEM, FTIR, TEM, EDS mapping were used to characterize biogenic AgNPs. Silver is a toxic but precious heavy metal that has been implemented in diverse biomedical and environmental sectors. Extensive use of this metal has provoked severe environmental concerns. Hence there is an increasing demand for the development of a simple, inexpensive and eco-friendly approach for the remediation and recovery of silver. In this study, novel bacterial strains Enterobacter cloacae SMP1, Cupriavidus necator SMP2, and Bacillus megaterium SMP3 were isolated from silver mining site for the sake of silver remediation. Various experimental factors including temperature, pH and inoculum size (I_S) were optimized for silver remediation by SMP1 using central composite design (CCD) based on response surface methodology (RSM). For maximum 100% removal of silver the optimized values of temperature, pH and I_S were 23.5 °C, 7.5 and 2% (v/v) respectively in less than 10 h of incubation. Simultaneously, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were harvested through centrifugation (M1) and by applying voltage (M2) to the crude remediation mixture. The AgNPs, characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and cryo-scanning transmission electron microscopy (Cryo-SETM), were spherical shaped and 1.75–8.7 nm in diameter. The average zeta potentials (ZP) of AgNPs isolated by M1, and M2 were -35.8 mV and -45.2 mV respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cytosine DNA methylation (5mC) is an epigenetic mark that regulates gene expression in plant responses to environmental stresses. Zinc-finger protein (ZFP) is the largest family of DNA-binding transcription factors that also plays an essential role in eukaryote. In plant we have already identified and characterized different useful ZFP-genes. While, the main objective of this research was to observe and identify more targeted stress responsive genes of ZFPs epigenetically throughout genome in rice for the first time. A comprehensive correlation analysis was performed through methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP)-chip hybridization in rice under salt and osmotic stresses. High salinity and drought are two major abiotic hazards that are destroying the crop world-wide. As a result, Through-out genome 14 unique stress responsive transcription factors of ZFP-genes with varying level of methylation and expression under two conditions (control vs. stress) were isolated. All the identified genes were confirmed from different databases for their specific structure, cis-regulatory elements, phylogenetic analysis, and synteny analysis. Moreover, the tissue-specific expression patterns, and expression under abiotic and phytohormones stresses were also investigated. Phylogenetically all the genes were divided into 6 distinct subgroups with Arabidopsis and orthologous proteins were find-out through synteny analysis. Available RNA-seq data in response to various phytohormones provided hormone inducible gene expression profile. Through Reverse Transcriptase qPCR (RT-qPCR) analysis tissue-specific expression in shoot and root over various time points against salt and osmotic stresses exhibited the diverse expression patterns of identified genes. Overall, the present study providing a foundation for in-depth characterization of identified genes and to further understand the epigenetic role of DNA methylation for genes expression and environmental stresses regulation in higher plant. • 14 unique OsZFP genes partially or fully methylated were identified through MeDIP-chip. • All OsZFPs were clustered in three clades. • RNA-seq data in response to various phytohormones provided hormone specific genes expression profiles. • The candidate rice ZFP genes exhibited diverse expression patterns under salinity and drought stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study focuses on the preparation and optimization of lipid PLGA hybrid nanoparticles of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU-LPHNs) using a three-factor, three-level Box-Behnken design for sustained release and enhanced in-vitro anticancer efficacy. The morphology of the developed 5-FU-LPHNs was spherical and found in the range of 155.7–316.4 nm, entrapment efficiency (80%–92%), polydispersity index (0.11–0.19) and zeta potential (−19.7 mV to −29.4 mV) depicting nano-sized and stable nanoparticles. The XRD and DSC investigations showed the absence of characteristic peaks of 5-fluorouracil in the developed formulations indicating amorphization and successful encapsulation of 5-fluorouracil in the developed LPHNs. The in-vitro release showed a biphasic release pattern with an initial burst release pursued by sustained release up to 72 h. The in-vitro cytotoxicity studies of the developed 5-FU-LPHNs were found more cytotoxic than the free drug solution in HT-29 and HCT116 cancer cell lines. In both cell lines, the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 5-FU-LPHNs were approximately 2.06-fold and 1.83-fold, less than that of the 5-FU solution (p <.05). These results suggest that the developed LPHNs can be used as a potential drug delivery approach for the effective delivery of 5-fluorouracil with enhanced anticancer efficacy to colorectal tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new topology of multilevel inverter (MLI) is designed with a fewer number of components and low total harmonic distortion (THD) for high-power photovoltaic (PV) systems. The key limitations of conventional MLI topologies are high total harmonic distortion (THD) and the use of a large number of switching components due to which the cost of the overall inverter is high. In conventional MLI, THD can be significantly reduced by the addition of a large value filter element at the input side; however, it will result in increased size and cost. Thus, achieving a pure sinusoidal AC at the output and to maintain a low THD level is a major issue in conventional MLIs. The proposed MLI has the advantage of decreasing the output THD by using a modified form of the cascaded H-Bridge structure and sine pulse width modulation technique. The proposed inverter consists of 6 unidirectional switches and 2 bidirectional switches, and there is no extra requirement for additional voltage balancing capacitors or clinching diodes. The individual switching states and SPWM operation for generating the gate pulses of the proposed MLI are discussed in detail. Relevant waveforms are plotted, equations are derived, and mathematical analysis is carried out. A steady-state analysis of the proposed MLI demonstrates an output voltage with 17 levels while using only four DC sources. Simulation results of the proposed MLI for single-phase and three-phase structures are obtained, and comparison is carried out with existing MLI topologies which shows that the proposed MLI has significantly low THD and better performance. From the results, it is clear that the proposed MLI has a THD of 3.52% in comparison with four conventional MLIs whose THDs are 6.1%, 6.63%, 7.3%, and 9.93%. Moreover, the proposed MLI generates 17 voltage levels by using only 08 switching devices, whereas the conventional MLIs use more than 10 switching devices for the generation of 15 voltage levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth and development are adversely affected by different abiotic stress especially lead and water stress. Therefore, present study was conducted with the aim to investigate the response of two mungbean varieties to three different Pb2+ concentrations under two water stress conditions. Different morpho-physiological and yield traits were studied. Both varieties showed gradual reduction in morphological traits at increasing concentration of lead and water stress. Moreover, morphological traits were more severely affected by combined lead and water stress treatment (80 mg Pb2+ 50% FC) as compared to single lead (40 mg Pb2+ 100% FC and 80 mg Pb2+ 100% FC) and single water stress treatment (0 mg Pb2+ 50% FC). The negative effect of Pb2+ and water stress on growth of shoot, root length, shoot, and root fresh and dry weight was observed more during 2nd harvest interval as compared to the 1st harvest interval. Highly significant differences were observed among treatments for all physiological and yield traits except chlorophyll b. Shoot phosphorus contents, shoot sodium contents and number of pods/plant also showed significant differences among varieties. All physiological and yield parameters showed gradual reduction with increasing concentration of lead and water stress. Uptake of Na+, K and P was reduced significantly in all treatments but lead accumulation in shoot was increased in single lead treatment (80 mg Pb2+ 100% FC) as compared to combined lead and water stress treatment. Combined lead and water stress treatment (80 mg Pb2+ 50% FC) showed adverse effects on plant growth and development as compared to other stress treatments. Comparison between varieties showed that AZRI Mung 2006 performed better than NM 2006 under heavy metal (Pb2+) and water deficit conditions. Therefore, AZRI Mung 2006 proved to be a useful germplasm source against lead and water stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]