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Abstract The increasing need to control anthropogenic CO2 emissions and conversion to fuels features the necessity for innovative solutions, one of which is photoelectrochemical system. This approach, capable of yielding gaseous production progressively, is facing challenges for liquid fuels generation due to optical, electrical, and catalytic properties. This study employs a standalone photoelectrochemical setup, in which InGaP/GaAs/Ge photoanode is integrated with tin-modified bismuth oxide cathode to convert CO2 into liquid formic acid. In unassisted two-electrode assembly, setup exemplifies its operational durability for 100 h, during which it maintains an average Faradaic efficiency of 88% with 17.3 mmol L–1 h–1 of yield, thereby excelling in average solar-to-fuel conversion efficiency at 12% with 60% of electrical energy efficiency under one sun illumination. This significant performance is further associated with metal-semiconductor interface formation between tin and bismuth oxide, which bridges electronic structures and generates an electric field at their interfaces. This study outperforms conventional solar-driven systems in operational durability and liquid fuel production.

Abstract The magnetic force effects and differently shaped nano-particles in diverging tapering arteries having stenoses are being studied in current research via blood flow model. There hasn’t been any research done on using metallic nanoparticles of different shapes with water as the base fluid. A radially symmetric but axially non-symmetric stenosis is used to depict the blood flow. Another significant aspect of our research is the study of symmetrical distribution of wall shearing stresses in connection with resistive impedance, as well as the rise of these quantities with the progression of stenosis. Shaping nanoparticles in accordance with the understanding of blood flow in arteries offers numerous possibilities for improving drug delivery, targeted therapies, and diagnostic imaging in the context of cardiovascular and other vascular-related diseases. Exact solutions for different flow quantities namely velocity, temperature, resistance impedance, boundary shear stress, and shearing stress at the stenosis throat, have been assessed. For various parameters of relevance for Cu-water, the graphical results of several types of tapered arteries (i.e. diverging tapering) have been explored.

Abstract The increasing global demand for energy storage solutions has spurred interest in advanced materials for electrochemical energy storage devices. Transition-metal carbides and nitrides, known as MXenes, are characterized by remarkable conductivity and tunable properties, They have gained significant attention for their potential in energy storage applications. The properties of two-dimensional (2-D) MXenes can be tuned by doping or composite formation. We report a novel Ti3C2Tx/NaF composite prepared via a straightforward hydrothermal process for supercapacitor electrode applications. Three composites with varying NaF concentrations (1%, 3%, and 5%) were synthesized under similar conditions. Structural characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy confirmed the successful formation of the composites, whereas distinct shifts in XRD peaks and new peaks revealed the presence of NaF. Electrochemical performance was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charging-discharging, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The composites exhibited pseudo-capacitive behavior with reversible redox reactions during charge and discharge cycles. Specific capacitance of 191 F/g at scan rates of 2 mV/s was measured in 1 M KOH. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed an escalating impedance factor as NaF content increases within Ti3C2Tx. This study underscores the versatile energy storage potential of Ti3C2Tx/NaF composites, offering insights into their tailored properties and behavior.

Abstract The field of supercapacitors consistently focuses on research and challenges to improve energy efficiency, capacitance, flexibility, and stability. Low-cost laser-induced graphene (LIG) offers a promising alternative to commercially available graphene for next-generation wearable and portable devices, thanks to its remarkable specific surface area, excellent mechanical flexibility, and exceptional electrical properties. We report on the development of LIG-based flexible supercapacitors with optimized geometries, which demonstrate high capacitance and energy density while maintaining flexibility and stability. Three-dimensional porous graphene films were synthesized, and devices with optimized parameters were fabricated and tested. One type of device utilized LIG, while two other types were fabricated on LIG by coating multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) at varying concentrations. Characterization techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and voltammetry, were employed to analyze the fabricated devices. AFM analysis revealed a surface roughness of 2.03 µm for LIG due to laser treatment. SEM images displayed compact, dense, and porous surface morphology. XRD analysis confirmed the presence of graphene and graphene oxide, which was further supported by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) data. Raman spectroscopy indicated that the fabricated samples exhibited distinct D and G bands at 1362 cm–1 and 1579 cm–1, respectively. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) results showed that LIG's capacitance, power density, and energy density were 6.09 mF cm–2, 0.199 mW cm–2, and 3.38 µWh cm–2, respectively, at a current density of 0.2 mA cm–2. The LIG-MWCNT coated electrode exhibited a higher energy density of 6.05 µWh cm–2 and an areal-specific capacitance of 51.975 mF cm–2 compared to the LIG-based devices. The fabricated device has potential applications in smart electronics, nanorobotics, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), and wearable and portable electronics.

The current study is connected to a recent investigation regarding temperature-dependent viscous flow for various-shaped nanoparticles in a flexible tube. For velocity/pressure gradient/temperature, precise solutions have been determined. Cylindrical coordinates have been used to simulate the main flow problem, and the lubrication approximation method has been used to reduce the flow equations to ordinary differential equations (ODEs). For easier understanding, results are graphically discussed. Additionally, it can be seen that platelet-shaped particles have a smaller velocity field than brick- and cylinder-shaped particles. Further it is analyzed that if we add the specific brick-shaped nanoparticles to the fluid, the thermal conductivity of the fluid improves.

Landslides have been known to generate powerful air blasts capable of causing destruction and casualties far beyond the runout of sliding mass. The extent of tree damage provides valuable information on air blast intensity and impact region. However, little attention has been paid to the air blast–tree interaction. In this study, we proposed a framework to assess the tree destruction caused by powerful air blasts, including the eigenfrequency prediction method, tree motion equations and the breakage conditions. The tree is modeled as a flexible beam with variable cross-sections, and the anchorage stiffness is introduced to describe the tilt of the tree base. Large tree deflection is regarded when calculating the air blast loading, and two failure modes (bending and overturning) and the associated failure criteria are defined. Modeling results indicate that although the anchorage properties are of importance to the tree eigenfrequency, tree eigenfrequency is always close to the air blast frequency, causing a dynamic magnification effect for the tree deformation. This magnification effect is significant in cases with a low air blast velocity, while the large tree deflection caused by strong air blast loading would weaken this effect. Furthermore, failure modes of a specific forest subject to a powerful air blast depend heavily on the trunk bending strength and anchorage characteristics. The large variation in biometric and mechanical properties of trees necessitates the establishment of a regional database of tree parameters. Our work and the proposed method are expected to provide a better understanding of air blast power and to be of great use for air blast risk assessment in mountainous regions worldwide.

In this manuscript, a 16-port compact multi-antenna array for fifth generation (5G) communications is presented. The proposed antenna offers high data rate communication, by using MIMO (multiple-input-multiple-output) wireless technology. Efficient bandwidth enhancement techniques are used to achieve wider bandwidth response i.e., 3.4-3.8 GHz within sub-6GHz. This system is realized over low-cost FR-4 laminate having dimensions of 64mm × 131mm. The fractal shape slotted radiators and open-ended square ring (OESR) isolating structures achieves at least 25dB isolations among antenna pairs while maintaining wideband response. The optimum isolation, low-cost design profile, matched scattering parameters without compromising compactness and acceptable specific absorption rate (SAR) makes this system a suitable candidate for 5G smart phone communications.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are a very essential part of the automobile industry and play a vital role in the development of the economy of a country. Due to their eco-friendly nature and lower operating cost, EVs have acquired great attention globally. Almost all leading automobile manufacturers are developing cost-efficient EVs. However, with the increase in the number of EVs day by day, the need for efficient charging stations to deliver economical charging needs to be developed. To charge these EVs from the conventional grids is an additional burden on these grids as more electricity will be required to charge these EVs, which may result in incremental energy production as well as the energy cost for the general consumers. These days, increasing the number of EVs can bring sustainability problems in Pakistan as the considered country already facing the worst electrical energy crisis in the last ten years. For this purpose, we must require some alternate methods for charging the EVs charging to avoid overloading on existing grids. The use of renewable energy resources (RERs) is an effective solution to tackle this shortage of power. Therefore, in this paper, a cost-effective solution is proposed by hybridizing the different types of RERs to charge the EVs from the charging station. A different combination of RERs is used as case studies for a specific area of Pakistan named Kallar Kahar. Simulation is performed on MATLAB/Simulink and energy cost is being compared for different case studies. The proposed hybrid power system used approximately 50% wind, 40% solar, and 10% biogas as RERs. The results show that case 4 is best among all which provides yearly power production of 375,220 kWh at a net annual cost of 43,174.06$/year while the net annual cost to provide the same power with the grid is 59,304$/year. There is a 1.37% reduction in the overall annual cost of the proposed charging station as compared to the utility grid.

Abstract Morphometric measurement and roosting ecology of Pteropus medius were aimed to find out in Mansehra district of KP, Pakistan. Total 3149 numbers of bats were found in eight biological spots visited; Baffa Doraha, Darband, Dadar, Jallu, Hazara University, Garhi Habibullah Chattar Plain and Jabori, in total 299 numbers of different species of trees including; Morus alba, Pinus raxburghi, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Morus nigra, Grevillea robusta, Brousonetia papyrifera,Platanus orientalis, Ailanthus altissima, Hevea brasiliensis and Populus nigra. Morphometric features were measured and found vary according to sex of the bats. The average wing span, wing`s length from tip of wing to neck, from thumb to tip of wing and the body`s length from head and claws were recorded to be 102.98 cm, 49.07cm, 28.7 cm and 22.78 cm respectively in males while 93.67 cm, 44.83cm, 24.78cm and 22.78 cm respectively in female bats. Mean circumference of the body including wings and without wing were measured as 22.78 cm and 17.29 cm in males and that of female were 20.07 cm and 16.9 cm. Average length of thumb 3.64 cm, ear`s length 3.1 cm, snout 5.62cm, eye length were 1.07 cm for both sexes and length between the feet in extended position were16.3 cm. Generally different measurement of males bodies were found to be greater than female such as mean body surface area, mass, volume and pressure were found to be 2691.79 cm2, 855.7gm,1236.4 ml and 295.77 dyne/ c m 3for male and 2576.46 cm2, 852.71gm,1207 ml and 290.2 dyne/ c m 3 respectively for female. While weight and density for both males and females bats were same with mean of 8.59 newton and 0.701 g/m3. Findings of current reports can add valued information in literature about bats, which can be used for species identification and conservation.

Abstract This article is concerned with the study of MHD non-Newtonian nanofluid flow over a stretching/shrinking cylinder along with thermal radiation effects. Two-component slip mechanism models, namely Brownian motion and thermophoresis of nanofluid for the mass and energy transportation, developed by Buongiorno, are used. Convective heat transfer and nonuniform magnetic field are retained for the expanding/contracting cylinder. Variable thermal conductivity and heat generation effects along with slip boundary conditions are utilized over the cylinder surface. By utilizing the similarity transformation, these governing partial differential equations are converted into nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). To obtain numerical results, these ODE’S are solved by the shooting method using MATLAB software. The impact of different parameters like variable thermal conductivity, radiation parameter, magnetic parameter, Prandtl number, Brownian motion parameter, the magnetic parameter, Weissenberg number, the viscosity ratio parameter and mass transfer parameter, on the velocity, temperature and concentration is discussed graphically. Further, the Sherwood number, Nusselt number, the skin friction coefficient are also discussed through figures. It is noted through analysis that the speed of the nanofluid reduces for the higher Weissenberg number and expanding cylinder. For the contracting cylinder, i.e., for the negative unsteadiness parameter, the velocity increases.

Abstract The presence of microplastics in aquatic environments has raised concerns about their abundance and potential hazards to aquatic organisms. This review provides insight into the problem that may be of alarm for freshwater fish. Plastic pollution is not confined to marine ecosystems; freshwater also comprises plastic bits, as the most of plastic fragments enter oceans via rivers. Microplastics (MPs) can be consumed by fish and accumulated due to their size and poor biodegradability. Furthermore, it has the potential to enter the food chain and cause health problems. Evidence of MPs s ingestion has been reported in >150 fish species from both freshwater and marine systems. However, microplastic quantification and toxicity in freshwater ecosystems have been underestimated, ignored, and not reported as much as compared to the marine ecosystem. However, their abundance, influence, and toxicity in freshwater biota are not less than in marine ecosystems. The interaction of MPs with freshwater fish, as well as the risk of human consumption, remains a mystery. Nevertheless, our knowledge of the impacts of MPs on freshwater fish is still very limited. This study detailed the status of the toxicity of MPs in freshwater fish. This review will add to our understanding of the ecotoxicology of microplastics on freshwater fish and give subsequent research directions.

In this paper, we have compared a new type of similarity transformation derived systematically by using Lie point symmetries with the existing similarity transformations for unsteady fluid flow and heat transfer in the boundary layer in the presence of radiation. It is observed that the existing transformations map the steady and marginally accelerating flows only, while the Lie similarity transformations provide solutions for all types of accelerating flows and are independent of unsteadiness in the fluid. The previous transformations are valid for a specific time interval which depends on a range of unsteadiness parameter, however the Lie similarity transformations provide valid solutions at any given time. This implies that the Lie similarity transformations yield solutions for previously unexplored ranges of unsteadiness in the fluid. Boundary layer flow physics for both types of transformations is discussed by employing the Homotopy analysis method. We show that for accelerating fluids, in the developing region, the boundary layer thickness first increases and than starts to decrease with increase in unsteadiness for fully developed flow. Detailed comparison of velocity and temperature profiles in the boundary layer is made using the tables and graphs which show that with Lie similarity transformations the region of study of the considered flow extends significantly for the unsteadiness parameter. The effect of the Prandtl number and radiation parameter on temperature distribution is also compared for both types of similarity transformations. The Lie symmetry similarity transformations are shown to explain the unsteady laminar boundary layer flow and heat transfer to an extent where the existing similarity transformations do not work.

Abstract The main objective of the present study is to explore the effects of electromagnetohydrodynamics electroosmotic flow of hybrid nanofluid through circular cylindrical microchannels. An analysis of hybrid nanofluid consisting of four different nanomaterials i.e., single and multiwall carbon nanotubes, silver, and copper is carried out. Yamada–Ota model is employed for the single and multi wall carbon nanotubes, whereas, Xue model is used for the Silver and Copper hybrid nanofluid for specifying the thermal conductivity. The imposed pressure gradient, electromagnetic field and electroosmosis actuated the fluid flow. The flow of heat transfer and Nusselt number with the account of various effects of Joule heating and viscous dissipation under the circumstances of constant heat flux are discussed graphically. The governing system of equations is molded into a system of coupled, nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The shooting technique is used to extract the numerical solutions of the converted system of equations. Also, the outturn of different parameters like Hartman number, the strength of lateral direction electric field, EDL (electric double layer) electrokinetic width, Joule heating parameters on the temperature, and velocity are investigated. The conversion of simple fluid to hybrid nanofluid has greatly alteration in the present model. It has enhanced the thermal properties of fluid. It is also noted that $$SWCNT-MWCNT$$ S W C N T - M W C N T based hybrid nanofluid has most influential impact on Nusselt number, temperature distribution and velocity of the fluid. This attempt is useful for the designing of effectual electromagnetic appliances and exquisite.

Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most significant greenhouse gas, and its concentration is continuously increasing, mainly as a consequence of anthropogenic activities. Accurate quantification of CO2 is critical for addressing the global challenge of climate change and for designing mitigation strategies aimed at stabilizing CO2 emissions. Satellites provide the most effective way to monitor the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere. In this study, we utilized the concentration of the column-averaged dry-air mole fraction of CO2, i.e., XCO2 retrieved from a CO2 monitoring satellite, the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2), and the net primary productivity (NPP) provided by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) to estimate the anthropogenic CO2 emissions using the Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN) over East and West Asia. OCO-2 XCO2, MODIS NPP, and the Open-Data Inventory for Anthropogenic Carbon dioxide (ODIAC) CO2 emission datasets for a period of 5 years (2015–2019) were used in this study. The annual XCO2 anomalies were calculated from the OCO-2 retrievals for each year to remove the larger background CO2 concentrations and seasonal variability. The XCO2 anomaly, NPP, and ODIAC emission datasets from 2015 to 2018 were then used to train the GRNN model, and, finally, the anthropogenic CO2 emissions were estimated for 2019 based on the NPP and XCO2 anomalies derived for the same year. The estimated and the ODIAC CO2 emissions were compared, and the results showed good agreement in terms of spatial distribution. The CO2 emissions were estimated separately over East and West Asia. In addition, correlations between the ODIAC emissions and XCO2 anomalies were also determined separately for East and West Asia, and East Asia exhibited relatively better results. The results showed that satellite-based XCO2 retrievals can be used to estimate the regional-scale anthropogenic CO2 emissions, and the accuracy of the results can be enhanced by further improvement of the GRNN model with the addition of more CO2 emission and concentration datasets.

Purpose – This paper aims to develop and present a new planning framework of social marketing, known as consumer research, segmentation, design of the social programme, implementation, evaluation and sustainability (CSD-IES). Design/methodology/approach – The proposed framework is based on recent theoretical developments in social marketing and is informed by the key strengths of existing social marketing planning approaches. Findings – The CSD-IES planning framework incorporates emerging principles of social marketing. For example, sustainability in changed behaviour, ethical considerations in designing social marketing programmes, the need for continuous research to understand the changing needs of the priority audience during the programme and the need for explicit feedback mechanisms. Research limitations/implications – The CSD-IES framework is a dynamic and flexible framework that guides social marketers, other practitioners and researchers to develop, implement and evaluate effective and sustainable social marketing programmes to influence or change specific behaviours based on available resources. Originality/value – This paper makes an important contribution to social marketing theory and practice by integrating elements of behaviour maintenance, consideration of ethical perspectives and continuous feedback mechanisms in developing the CSD-IES framework, bringing it in line with the global consensus definition of social marketing.

Abstract Environmental contamination with heavy metals is a threat to the organisms due to their toxicity, persistence and bioaccumulation in food chains. The study was aimed to assess cadmium (Cd) effect on calcium (Ca) level in bones of a freshwater fish Channa gachua. 42 fish individuals were kept into six (6) aquaria; labelled aq.0, 1, 2, 3,4 and 5 in the laboratory for treatment. Aq.0 was control group and aq.1, 2,3,4,5 were experimental with treatment solution of Cd 0, 0.1ppm, 0.5ppm, 1ppm, 2.5ppm and 5ppm respectively for three months. After exposure, bones tissue were examined for Cd accumulation and Ca concentration. Highest accumulation of Cd were recorded in aq.5 mean 46.86 ± 0.46 mgkg-1 .and lowest in the control group with mean 0.61 ± 0.06 mgkg-1. The order of Cd bioaccumulation in bones were aq.5 > aq.4 >aq.3 > aq.2 > aq.1 > aq.0. Highest concentration of Ca were noted in aq.0 (Control group) mean 7888.06 ± 4827.22 mgkg-1 and lowest were 1132.36 ± 203.73 mgkg-1 in aq.5 (at 5.0 ppm). Generally a pattern of decreasing Ca level were observed with each rise of Cd bioaccumulation aq.0 > aq.1 > aq.2 > aq.3 > aq.4 > aq.5. Current study indicated that Cd accumulation have substantial effect on Ca level in bones and hence on skeleton system. Strict rules must be implemented by government to control metals pollution and exploitations of biota.

Abstract The aim of this study was to estimate the size at first sexual maturity (Lm) for 36 species belonging to 24 families from the marine habitat of Balochistan and Sindh in Arabian Sea, Pakistan through maximum length based an empirical and logistic model using commercial catch during June 2020 to May 2021. Individual total length (TL) was noted up to 0.1 cm using measuring broad. The Lm was calculated using two formulae; (i) log (Lm) = - 0.1246 + 0.9924 * log (Lmax) for Elasmobranchs and (ii) log (Lm) = -0.1189 + 0.9157* log (Lmax) for ray-finned fishes. The minimum Lm was recorded as 10.27 cm TL for Caranx malabaricus and 108.38 cm TL for Isurus oxyrinchus, respectively. Around Lm with 58.33% species were ranges from 19.00 cm to 25.00 cm TL. This study was estimated 16 newly Lm which is globally absent and rest 20 Lm are absent in the Arabian Sea (Pakistan coastal habitats). Therefore, the results will be helpful for the sustainable management and conservation of these marine fishes through the establishment of mesh size of trawl nets based on the size at sexual maturity (Lm).

Abstract The thermal management of the flow of the hybrid nanofluid within the conical gap between a cone and a disk is analyzed. Four different cases of flow are examined, including (1) stationary cone rotating disk (2) rotating cone stationary disk (3) rotating cone and disk in the same direction and (4) rotating cone and disk in the opposite directions. The magnetic field of strength $$B_{0}$$ B 0 is added to the modeled problem that is applied along the z-direction. This work actually explores the role of the heat transfer, which performs in a plate-cone viscometer. A special type of hybrid nanoliquid containing copper Cu and magnetic ferrite Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles are considered. The similarity transformations have been used to alter the modeled from partial differential equations (PDEs) to the ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The modeled problem is analytically treated with the Homotopy analysis method HAM and the numerical ND-solve method has been used for the comparison. The numerical outputs for the temperature gradient are tabulated against physical pertinent variables. In particular, it is concluded that increment in volume fraction of both nanoparticles $$\left( {\phi_{{Fe_{3} O_{4} }} ,\phi_{Cu} } \right)$$ ϕ F e 3 O 4 , ϕ Cu effectively enhanced the thermal transmission rate and velocity of base fluid. The desired cooling of disk-cone instruments can be gained for a rotating disk with a fixed cone, while the surface temperature remains constant.

Abstract Hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) is the foremost reason of progressive hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis, with an elevated risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Medicinal plants have been used for human health benefits for several years, but their therapeutic potential needs to be explored. The main objective of this study was to figure out the in vitro antiviral and anticancer characteristics of total crude protein of Iberis gibraltarica against HCV and HCC. Total crude protein of Iberis gibraltarica was isolated and quantified. The level of cytotoxicity was measured against the HepG2 cell line and it shows no significant cytotoxicity at the concentration of 504µg/ml. The anti-HCV effect was determined by absolute quantification via real time RT-PCR method and viral titer was reduced up to 66% in a dose dependent manner against the total protein of Iberis gibraltarica. The anticancer potential of Iberis gibraltarica was also examined through mRNA expression studies of AFP and GPC3 genes against the total protein of Iberis gibraltarica-treated HepG2 cells. The results show up to 90% of the down-regulation expression of AFP and GPC3. The obtained results indicate the therapeutic potential of total protein of Iberis gibraltarica against HCV and hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro.

Abstract Background Functional sugar alcohols have been widely used in the food, medicine, and pharmaceutical industries for their unique properties. Among these, erythritol is a zero calories sweetener produced by the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. However, in wild-type strains, erythritol is produced with low productivity and yield and only under high osmotic pressure together with other undesired polyols, such as mannitol or d-arabitol. The yeast is also able to catabolize erythritol in non-stressing conditions. Results Herein, Y. lipolytica has been metabolically engineered to increase erythritol production titer, yield, and productivity from glucose. This consisted of the disruption of anabolic pathways for mannitol and d-arabitol together with the erythritol catabolic pathway. Genes ZWF1 and GND encoding, respectively, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase were also constitutively expressed in regenerating the NADPH2 consumed during erythritol synthesis. Finally, the gene RSP5 gene from Saccharomyces cerevisiae encoding ubiquitin ligase was overexpressed to improve cell thermoresistance. The resulting strain HCY118 is impaired in mannitol or d-arabitol production and erythritol consumption. It can grow well up to 35 °C and retain an efficient erythritol production capacity at 33 °C. The yield, production, and productivity reached 0.63 g/g, 190 g/L, and 1.97 g/L·h in 2-L flasks, and increased to 0.65 g/g, 196 g/L, and 2.51 g/L·h in 30-m3 fermentor, respectively, which has economical practical importance. Conclusion The strategy developed herein yielded an engineered Y. lipolytica strain with enhanced thermoresistance and NADPH supply, resulting in a higher ability to produce erythritol, but not mannitol or d-arabitol from glucose. This is of interest for process development since it will reduce the cost of bioreactor cooling and erythritol purification.

Electrical energy is an essential input for the improvement of a country's economy. A consistent source of electrical power is vital to support and improve living standards. Wind energy is seen as a commercially appealing and rapidly growing electrical energy resource of lower environmental impact and cost-effectiveness. Thus, the percentage of electrical power produced by wind energy in the energy sector has increased dramatically during the last few years. The fluctuating characteristics of wind power present severe challenges to electrical power transmission. Therefore, a precise wind power forecast is crucial for the successful operation of the wind farm in a reliable power distribution system. In this paper, A hybrid Neural Network model is proposed for a high-performance strategy for estimating wind speed. Weights of five neural networks, each with a different structure are adjusted with PSO and Genetic Algorithm. Trial cases for additional months of 2012 are called for validation. The results and comparisons with other wind speed forecasting models show that the introduced model provides a better wind speed forecast.

The process of fluid flow over three-dimensional (3D) domains has valuable and promising applications in multiple disciplines like in aerodynamics, computer graphics, environmental science, material synthesis technology, geographic information system, polymer industry and so forth. So, in view of such admirable utilization of fluid flowing processes over 3D surfaces current effort is presented to examine the flow behavior of non-Newtonian fluid past a bidirectional non-linearly stretched sheet. In this regards, Williamson model is considered which represent speculative features of shear thinning materials which are obliged in biomechanics, lubricants formation, polymer solution, suspension etc. Momentum transport with in flow field is envisioned by the appliance of transversally directed magnetic. The novelty of analysis is strengthened by Fourier heat flux and Buongiorno mass conservation models. Mathematical modelling of conventional energy equation is modified by incorporation of nanofluid Brownian and thermophoresis effects. The condition of zero normal flux of nanoparticles at the stretching surface is defined to impulse the particles away from the surface in combination with nonzero normal flux condition. Mathematical modelling of Williamson fluid including the impact of chemical reaction, radiative heat flux and heat source is manifested in the form of partial differential equations. Similarity variables are capitalized to transmute governing modelled conservation laws in to ordinary non-dimensionalzed expressions. Assessment of flow attributing profiles is disclosed by implementing Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg procedure (RKF-45) in collaboration with shooting method. Behavior of momentum, temperature and concentration distributions against miscellaneous arising parameters is visualized through graphical structures. Graphical visualization and numerical data about surface drag coefficients and heat and mass transfer rates are also presented. The computed solution is in excellent agreement with existing data in a limiting sense which assures the credulity of this work.

Magneto-micropolar electrically conducting nanofluid flow over a linearly stretching sheet for heat and mass transfer in the presence of convective boundary condition is considered. In the energy equation, non-linear thermal radiation and Joule heating effects are incorporated. Velocity slip condition at the solid liquid interface is also employed. In the current model viscous dissipation and mixed convection aspects are also taken into account. Non dimensional ordinary differential equations are acquired by implementing the similar transformations on the governed partial differential equations. The shooting technique is utilized along with Runga-Kutta integration scheme to tackled the differential equations numerically. All the numerical calculations are further verified with MATLAB bvp4c scheme. Graphical results are exploited to view the behavior of emerging parameters on velocity, temperature and concentration of nanofluid. In limiting case, MATLAB code is verified with a published article and a good agreement is noted. Numerical computations are performed for the local Sherwood and Nusselt number and skin friction coefficients. It is observed that the electric field is dominant over the magnetic field. The behavior of velocity profile is reserved in the absence of the electric field. Further, the nonlinear thermal radiation aggregates the temperature profile.

In this article, we recover a variety of new families of shallow water wave and solitary wave solutions to the (1+1)-dimensional Dullin “Gottwald” Holm (DGH) system by employing new extended direct algebraic method (NEDAM). The derived results are obtained in diverse hyperbolic and periodic function forms. The attained solutions are new addition in the study of solitary wave and shallow water wave theory. In addition, 3-dimensional, 2-dimensional, and contour graphs of secured results are plotted in order to observe their dynamics with the choices of involved parameters. On the basis of achieved outcomes, we may claim that the proposed computational method is direct, dynamics, well organized, and will be useful for solving the more complicated nonlinear problems in diverse areas together with symbolic computations.

Abstract Reports abound on Lernaea parasitizing the brood stock, fingerlings, and marketable-sized culturable freshwater fish species in various parts of the world. We investigated seven small-scale aquaculture farms and how the prevailing Lernaea is impacting them. Randomly seven fish farms were selected to determine the prevalence percentage of lernaeid ectoparasites. Relevant information of the fishponds to estimate the various aspects such as effects of water source and quality, feed, stocking density, treatment used, and weight and length of fish, concerned with Lernaea infestation and prevalence was gathered. The results indicated that Catla catla (F. Hamilton, 1822) showed highest prevalence (41.7%) among the seven fish species, whereas Oreochromis niloticus showed zero. Other five fish species Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix showed 13.2%, 8.1%, 7.7%, 7.4%, 0.9% prevalence, respectively. In Royal Fish Farm 84.3% lernaeid infestation was observed, while no parasite was observed in the Vicent’s Chunnian fish farm. The water source, quality, feed, fertilizers, stocking density, water temperature, and potential treatment options displayed varying tendencies among fish farms and prevalence. Depending on the weight and length, the highest prevalence (56.7%, and 66.7%) was observed in 3501-4000 g and 81-90 cm groups. The infestation rate varied in various fish body parts with the dorsal fin the most vulnerable organ and showed 2.3% overall prevalence (while 18.4% contribution within total 12.6% infestation). Out of 147 infected fish samples, 45 were extensively contaminated by Lernaea spread. In conclusion, our findings confirm that Lernaea could pose a considerable threat to marketable fish, and various treatment options should be educated to the farmers to help mitigate the spread and potential losses. Furthermore, Catla catla is more vulnerable to Lernaea infestation (41.7%), so are the fish species being cultured at higher stocking densities.

Abstract A field study was carried out to determine the influence of foliage applied plant growth promoter and retardant in improving soil applied sulphur fertilizer use efficiency in cotton during two consecutive summers 2014 and 2015. Experimental trial comprised of three different sources of sulphur (ammonium sulphate, potassium sulphate and elemental sulphur) and foliar spray of plant growth promoter and growth retardant including tap water was taken as control. Among treatments soil applied ammonium sulphate with foliage applied amino acid produced maximum plant height, sympodial branches, pods per plant, seed cotton yield, fiber yield, biological yield, protein contents, oil contents and leaf nitrogen uptake as compared to the other treatments. Whereas, soil applied potassium sulphate with foliar spray of mepiquat chloride on cotton significantly improved the boll weight and leaf potassium uptake. We conclude that soil applied ammonium sulphate and foliage spray of amino acid was more effective in improving the productivity and quality attributes of cotton.

Background ACE angioedema has not been characterized in comparison with angioedema from other causes in acute hospitalized patients. Methods We retrospectively compared ACE-angioedema and non-ACE angioedema patients from January 2013 to May 2017. Results Of 855 cases screened, 575 met the inclusion criteria of angioedema diagnosis and an electronic medical record. Of these, 297 (51.7%) had ACE angioedema and 278 had angioedema from other causes, of these 31 who were taking an ACE inhibitor that was not considered to be the cause of angioedema (ACE other cause). At least 80% of cases in all groups were African American. Epinephrine was prescribed in 21% of ACE angioedema cases. One-third of patients in all groups were admitted to the ICU, and about 25% required intubation. Previous history of ACE inhibitor-induced angioedema was found in 63 of 278 non-ACE cause angioedema patients (23%) and in 23 (8%) in the ACE cause group. Conclusion ACE angioedema was the cause of half of angioedema admissions over a 4.5-year period. Mortality, morbidity, and treatment did not differ between the groups. Patients on ACE inhibitors were often treated with medications known not to be effective for ACE angioedema. Over one-fourth of patients not taking an ACE inhibitor had a previous history of ACE angioedema, and 31 patients taking ACE inhibitors were diagnosed with non-ACE angioedema. Regardless of the etiology of angioedema, 25% of patients required airway protection in the form of intubation.

Recent compressed sensing (CS) approaches to utilize the similarity and redundancy of magnetic resonance (MR) image patches to enable reconstruction from sparse k-space measurements. In this paper, the patches' similarity and redundancy are exploited by applying the low-dimensional manifold model (LDMM). The basic assumption of the LDMM is that the image patches sample a manifold whose intrinsic dimensions are much lower than the high-dimensional ambient space. MR images also exhibit a low-dimensional patch-manifold structure. Based on this assumption, the dimension of the patch-manifold is used as a regularizer in a variational formulation. The MR image is then reconstructed by keeping the dimension of the patch manifold as small as possible. The proposed algorithm significantly increases the quality of the reconstructed images. The algorithm is evaluated on two datasets containing 100 MR images each. The reconstruction quality of the algorithm, gauged using three quality metrics: peak signal-to-noise ratio, structural similarity index measure, and normalized root-mean-square error, is better than the comparison methods.

This research presents an optimal scheme for the integration of renewable resources with the utility grid to minimize the operational cost of the residential and industrial microgrids. With the changing paradigm of solar photovoltaic in low-voltage distribution networks, utilities have allowed net metering and feed-in tariff (FiT). These incentives encourage residential and industrial consumers to contribute toward energy generation. However, in conventional mode, the system may underperform if resources are not scheduled optimally. To compensate for the price difference during off-peak and on-peak hours, the energy should be taken from the grid when electricity prices are lower and supplied to the grid when the electricity price is higher. The proposed models will therefore allow optimal resource utilization considering intermittent renewable generation as well as a time-varying utility tariff. A complete comparative analysis of on-grid and off-grid models was carried out. The results indicate that the daily average saving is about 32.0% by using the proposed on-grid scheme, where a feed-in tariff is available.

Perovskite single crystals have gained enormous attention in recent years due to their facile synthesis and excellent optoelectronic properties including the long carrier diffusion length, high carrier mobility, low trap density, and tunable absorption edge ranging from ultra-violet (UV) to near-infrared (NIR), which offer potential for applications in solar cells, photodetectors (PDs), lasers, etc. In this review, we summarized the synthesis, properties, and applications of organic-inorganic mixed and all-inorganic perovskite single crystals, particularly through the solution synthesis approach. Challenges towards the crystal growth and stability with future perspectives were also briefly described at the end of this manuscript.

This article possesses new exact wave structures to the Gilson–Pickering equation (GPE) that describes the prorogation of waves in plasma physics. The solutions are achieved in single and combined behavior like shock, singular, shock-singular, singular periodic waves and periodic as well rational function by utilizing innovative integration norms namely (G′G2)-expansion method and expansion function method (EFM). Moreover, under the suitable choice of involved parameters 3-, 2-dimensional, and their corresponding contour plots are also sketched. The obtained results show that the applied computational schemes are straightforward, efficient, concise and can be utilized for more complex physical phenomena in various fields of sciences. The reported results are helpful to understand the studying of wave propagation and are also vital for numerical and experimental verification in plasma physics.

Recent developments in global financial markets revealed that cryptocurrencies experienced rapid growth due to the popularity of blockchain technology and its evolving position in the digital finance industry. The rise of cryptocurrencies led economists to question generally accepted financial practices. Particularly the interaction between two different types of financial markets arose as a hot research topic to discover specific relationships and differences between major cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies. Therefore, this article aims to examine analyze by attaching importance to the Bitcoin to investigate significant linkages and analyze critical direct and indirect connections. In this research, Bitcoin—which is known as the most prominent cryptocurrency on the market—and 50 different conventional currencies are taken into consideration by applying cross-correlation, HT (hierarchical tree), and MST (minimum spanning tree) methods. The results of this work can be utilized by academicians and economists for further research related to the subject.

The effect of nanofluid and thermal radiation on MHD Williamson fluid over a stretching cylinder in the presence of convective boundary conditions is analyzed. The variable thermal conductivity is considered during the formulation of energy equation. Nonlinear ordinary differential equations are attained by proposing relevant similarity transformations on partial differential equations. These non-dimensional ordinary differential equations are then converted to the system of first order ODEs and solved numerically by shooting method. Results are further compared by using bvp4c, a MATLAB built-in function. The results obtained from MATLAB codes are compared with previously published results of the same nature in limiting case. Numerical results of skin-friction coefficient, local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are systematized in the form of tables. The effect of prominent parameters on velocity, temperature and concentration is displayed by using graphs. It is observed that velocity profile diminishes for the higher values of Weissenberg number but a reverse relation is noticed for the temperature profile. Keywords: MHD, Williamson nanofluid, Stretching cylinder, Variable thermal conductivity, Thermal radiation

In the present article, three dimensional upper-convected Maxwell (UCM) nanofluid flow over a stretching surface has been considered to examine the effects of nanoparticles and magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) on heat and mass transfer. A nonlinear radiative heat flux is incorporated in the formulation of energy equation. Similarity transformation reduces the nonlinear partial differential equations of the problem to the ordinary differential equations, which are then solved by the well known shooting technique through Runge-Kutta integration procedure of order four. To strengthen the reliability of our results, the MATLAB built-in function bvp4c is also used. Effects of some prominent parameters such as Brownian motion parameter, Prandtl number, thermophoresis parameter, magnetic parameter on velocity, temperature and concentration are discussed graphically and numerically. It is witnessed that flow velocity is diminishing function of linear and nonlinear thermal radiation parameter. Moreover mounting values of Brownian motion parameter lower the nanoparticle concentration profile. Keywords: Upper-convected Maxwell fluid, Nanofluid, Magnetohydrodynamics, Nonlinear thermal radiation

The current studies were designed to prepare tin(II) complexes of various Schiff base derivatives of 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde (HN) with L-histidine and sulfamethazine have been prepared and characterized by different physiochemical studies such as elemental analysis, atomic absorption, UV-Vis spectra, FTIR spectra, 1H–NMR, 13C-NMR and conductance studies. Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities were also calculated. Antibacterial activity was evaluated by the agar-well diffusion method. Two Gram-negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli) and three Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis) bacterial strains were used. Antifungal activity was resolute against three fungal strains (Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Alternaria solani) by using the agar tube dilution method. The antioxidant activity of ligands and their complexes was measured on the basis of the radical scavenging effect of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH)-free radical activity. Ligand HNSM exhibited excellent activities as antibacterial activity (22 mm), antifungal activity (55%) and antioxidant activity (119 ppm).

The natural microbes are potential contributor to build up soil nitrogen through transformation of molecular nitrogen to plant available forms. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the contribution of biofertilizer to reduce the synthetic nitrogen application without deteriorating the yield and forage quality. The supplementary nitrogen rates included 0, 40, 80 and 120 kg ha−1 and the seed inoculation was carried out with the mixture of Azospirillum + Azotobacter spp. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with factorial arrangement. The results indicated that organic matter contents and ether extractable fat were negatively associated with both nitrogen and inoculation factors. The inoculation produced 6.58%, 9.58%, 2.51%, 16.94%, 10.26%, 17.59%, 14.02%, 33.81% and 66.18% more No. tillers, plant height, leaf to stem ratio, dry matter yield, mineral matter contents, crude fibre, crude protein, crude protein yield and total digestible crude protein yield, respectively over uninoculation. The interactive effects indicated that inoculation alone without nitrogen application produced 19.16% and 6.87% more dry matter yield and crude protein (%), respectively. The beneficiary effects of biofertilizers on growth and dry matter of oat were more pronounced at intermediate level of inorganic nitrogen which was gradually decreased at higher nitrogen levels. The CP, CPY and DCPY achieved with inoculation alone were statistically equivalent to plots fertilized with 0 and 40 kg N ha−1. It is clear that plots sown with inoculated seeds must be fertilized with 80 kg N to produce higher dry matter and economic returns. However, the highest protein contents in dry matter were recorded with highest fertilization level along with inoculation. By giving due attention to stimulatory effects of bacterial species in the present study, it is therefore, recommended to integrate the use of biofertilizers with supplemental dose of synthetic nitrogen source to sustain crop production.

Extraction or mining of sand and gravel from river beds/flood plains plays an important role as aggregate in construction industries but has placed immense pressure on the environment, where sand and gravel resources occur. Present study was carried out to determine the environmental effects of sand and gravel mining in Malir River bed in Karachi. Field work was carried out in the study area to determine the physical environmental effects of mining. Results show that destruction of landscape, reduction of f arm, grazing land and lowering of water table are the environmental effects that result due to sand and gravel mining in Malir River. Due to continuous open pit mining of the sand and gravel deposits of more than 100 ft thickness, the underlying bed rock which is a part of Gaj Formation of Miocene age is exposed on the surface of river bed, which may destroy the existing aquifer system in near future. Sand mining is widespread and highly unregulated in the Malir area. It is concluded that the government develops and implements policies designed to protect the environment around Malir sand and gravel mining areas in Karachi.

This paper investigates the effects of heat and mass transfer in the mixed convection flow of an Oldroyd-B fluid over a stretching surface with convective boundary conditions. Emphasis is given to the analysis of Soret and Dufour effects. Relevant problems are first formulated and then computed by homotopy analysis method (HAM). Soret and Dufour effects are considered. Velocity, temperature and concentration fields are given. In addition, the local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are examined through numerical values. Keywords: Soret and Dufour effects, Mixed convection flow, Oldroyd-B fluid, Convective boundary condition

We have studied three dimensional second grade nanofluid flow with effects of thermal radiation and mixed convection over an exponential stretched surface under the influence of convective boundary conditions. Obtained partial differential equations are transformed into coupled differential equations with the aid of apposite transformations. Newly introduced BVPh 2.0 Mathematica package is used to obtain an optimal convergent solution. This method is more efficient to provide optimal convergent value for all involved fields unlike Homotopy analysis method (HAM) which provide a rough estimate of convergence region. Impact of incipient physical parameters on velocity, temperature and concentration fields is presented in the form of graphs and debated accordingly. Numerical tabulated values of skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers with requisite discussion against numerous parameters is also added. It is noticed that temperature field is higher for larger values of radiation parameter. Moreover, increase in temperature profile and decrease in concentration field against gradually mounting values of Brownian motion parameter are experienced. Keywords: BVPh 2.0 Mathematica package, Thermal radiation, Convective conditions, Mixed convection, Second grade nanofluid

Present investigation is devoted to examine the mixed convective flow of Maxwell nanofluid with Soret and Dufour effects through a porous medium. Effects of variable temperature and concentration over a linearly permeable stretched surface are also taken into account. An optimal solution is obtained for the highly nonlinear set of differential equations using BVPh 2.0 Mathematica package. Graphs of different emerging pertinent parameters against velocity, temperature and concentration distributions are plotted and discussed accordingly. Numerically tabulated values of local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are also part of this investigation. It is witnessed that concentration field is decreasing and increasing function of Brownian motion and thermophoretic parameters respectively. Further, opposite behavior of Soret number on temperature and concentration distributions is seen. Keywords: Mixed convection, Maxwell nanofluid, Soret and Dufour effects, Optimal solution, Porous medium