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The global population is increasing rapidly as compared to food production; approximately three times more food would be required in 2050. Climate change affects crop production by causing sudden changes in weather conditions, including rain, storms, heat waves, doughiness, and water shortages. Farming with smart technology provides a productive solution. Smart farming is a productive solution that provides a great resource of income and improves the countries' economy by exporting consumable goods and preventing food security problems. Smart agriculture provides a combination of flexibility, remote access, and automation through the use of intelligent control technologies. Many countries are working towards smart and intelligent agriculture farming that analyzes crop, soil fertility, pests and weeds, and other problems caused by mismanagement and incompetence. However, smart agricultural farming is less widely adopted in agriculture as a result of high costs and little understanding of technology. In this study, An artificial climate control chamber (ACCC) was designed for cultivating plants by controlling the optimal parameters, especially the light spectrum. In ACCC, influential plant factors such as light, moisture, humidity, and fertilizer concentration have been controlled intelligently. Light spectrum was controlled by time periods in the previous system, while in the system proposed in this study, the light was controlled by image processing. In an artificial control chamber, the plant growth stages have been determined through image processing techniques. Datasets of image images have been used to organize specific intensities of the light spectrum. This intelligent system provides aid in the speed breeding procedure through variant spectrums of light and fertilizers combinations. In the research study, the yield and quality of intelligent farming are enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton is white gold and contributes significantly to the economy of the countries. The process of evolution of resistance in various cotton insects directly affects the life of people. Among the cotton insect pests, pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) and army bollworm (Spodoptera litura) have turned out to be destructive. The development of seed using gene stacking approach has tremendously reduced the applications of agrochemicals making the technology greener for society. A gene cassette containing Cry11 and Cry1H genes was constructed. The cassette was cloned into the pCAMBIA2300 plant expression vector using the CAMV3-35S promoter. The construct was transformed into cotton line FBS-222 using the shoot apex-cut Agrobacterium-mediated transformation method. The expression of the Cry genes was 3-fold higher in transgenic than the non-transgenic cotton plants using qRT-PCR. Finally, the insect bioassay with transgenic cotton showed 90% mortality against pink bollworms and 80% against cotton army bollworms. The results demonstrate the development of seeds using the gene pyramiding approach is an effective strategy to control insect pest attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practices among dental practitioners at a dental hospital in Islamabad. Material and Methods: This study consisted of 147 participants. The questionnaire had 21 questions related to vaccination status, barrier techniques infection control practices, and awareness. The questionnaire was distributed through Google Forms to the participants after getting their consent from them. The data was analyzed and tabulated through SPSS version 23. Results: Out of 147, 123 participants responded to our questionnaire. 75.6% of the participants were vaccinated against hepatitis B and 87.8% regularly wash their hands before and after dental treatment.100% of the participants wore and changed gloves after each patient. In the current study, the senior dental practitioners had a relatively poor mean score (4.1%) in terms of knowledge, attitude, and practice scores regarding infection control as compared to house officers and fresh graduates (59%).¹) Conclusion: The infection control knowledge, attitude, and practices among dental practitioners were better, however, there is room for improvement in compliance and knowledge in dental healthcare workers. More knowledge about infection control measures should be provided to dental practitioners, moreover, efforts are needed to improve the attitude and practice of dental practitioners toward infection control at Islamic International Dental Hospital, Islamabad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semantic analysis is a particular technique, which is an interesting area of research that associates with Natural Language Processing (NLP), artificial intelligence, opinion mining, text clustering, and classification. Numerous text processing techniques are being used to find out sentiments from the comments, such as social media tweets, hoax, fiction, nonfiction, novels, books, movies, health care, and stock exchange. Agrarian experts' opinions play a vital role in the agriculture sector that yields good crop productivity. This paper presents a descriptive analysis of agriculture experts' opinions through machine learning methods based on textual data collection. The data has been collected by surveying various academia, research institute, and industry of Punjab, Pakistan. The impact of various agricultural inputs such as seed quality, soil quality, soil-intensive tillage, climate changes, water shortage, synthetic fertilizer, and precision technologies on crop productivity have been collected through questionnaires. This research provides a descriptive analysis of collected agrarians experts opinions to increase the crop yield by providing awareness regarding current agriculture inputs to farmers by using machine learning. The current research provides a cohesive expert guideline for improving crop productivity, useful for agricultural policymaking, and conveys adequate farmers' knowledge. Consequently, the proposed method is an innovative way of discovering recommendations of agrarians through sentiment analysis in survey data using machine learning methods. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge, agrarians experts opinions on enhancing crop productivity have been considered for the first time in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims at presenting a lexical-semantic interpretation of Wallace Stevens‟ poems „Anecdote of the Jar‟ and „The Snow Man‟ . The formalist approach is adopted to interpret the two poems . The formalist approach is chosen for the sake of interpreting the poems because it considers the language that is employed in literature as self-centered. The function of such a literary language is to draw the reader‟s attention to the formal characteristic features that working together to form the literary text. The formal features that play a significant role in the poem and help to interpret it are symbols and images. The symbols and images that are employed in the poems aid to interpret them . The paper contains a preface to Wallace Stevens and his relationship with modernism . It also refers to the usability of the formal approach in interpreting poetry, the interpretation of Stevens‟ „Anecdote of the Jar‟ and „The Snow Man‟ and a discussion of the interpretation of the two poems in terms of the formalist approach. The paper ends up with the conclusions and a list of references. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet of Things (IoTs) is an integrated network collection of heterogeneous objects which enable seamless integration between systems, humans, devices, and various other things, to support pervasive computing for smart systems. IoT-driven systems and sensors continuously ingest data resulting in an increased volume and velocity of information which can lead to critical concerns such as security of the data and scalability of the system. The Internet of Underwater Things (IoUTs) is a specific genre of IoTs in which data related to oceanic ecosystems is continuously sensed through underwater sensors. IoUT has emerged as an innovative paradigm to support smart oceans. However, there are several critical challenges which IoUT system designers must consider such as (1) scalability of the system to handle large volumes of oceanic data and (2) security of data that is transmitted from IoT sensors deployed underwater. Blockchain as a newly emerged technology and an enabling platform allows decentralized and secure transmission of data among a wide group of untrustworthy parties. This research aims to exploit blockchain technology to secure IoUT data transmission by exploiting Interplanetary File System (IPFS) method. Additionally, this study also addresses the system's scalability in two aspects, (1) scalability, and (2) security. We used a case study-based approach and performed experiments to evaluate the proposed solution's usability and efficiency in terms of query response (i.e., performance), and algorithmic execution (i.e., efficiency). The proposed solution unifies blockchain technologies to secure IoT-driven systems and provides guidelines to engineer and develop next-generation of robust and secure blockchain-aided distributed IoT systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) productivity is decreasing alarmingly by salinity. For genetic analysis of cotton response to salinity 8 parental genotypes and their 16 F1 crosses were evaluated in Line × Tester fashion under normal and salt stress 15 dSm−1. Data were recorded for plant height, number of bolls plant−1, boll weight, lint weight, seed cotton yield plant−1, lint percentage, seed index, lint index, number of seeds boll−1, seed mass boll−1, lint mass boll−1, lint mass per seed, seed volume 100−1 seeds, seed surface area, ionic ratio, fiber strength, fiber length, fiber fineness, GOT %, SOD, POD, CAT, TSP, and H2O2. The results showed that SCA estimates were higher than the GCA indicating the preponderance of non-additive gene action. Kahkashan, MS-71, and CRS-2007 were found good general combiner whereas FH-114 × FH-312 was found the best specific combiner. FH-114 × KAHKASHAN and FH-114 × FH-312 demonstrated significant heterosis for most traits under normal and salt stress conditions. The present study revealed that salt tolerance ability is controlled by a few dominant genes in the identified genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep neural networks are efficient methods of recognizing image patterns and have been largely implemented in computer vision applications. Object detection has many applications in computer vision, including face and vehicle detection, video surveillance, and plant leaf detection. An automatic flower identification system over categories is still challenging due to similarities among classes and intraclass variation, so the deep learning model requires more precisely labeled and high-quality data. In this proposed work, an optimized and generalized deep convolutional neural network using Faster-Recurrent Convolutional Neural Network (Faster-RCNN) and Single Short Detector (SSD) is used for detecting, localizing, and classifying flower objects. We prepared 2000 images for various pretrained models, including ResNet 50, ResNet 101, and Inception V2, as well as Mobile Net V2. In this study, 70% of the images were used for training, 25% for validation, and 5% for testing. The experiment demonstrates that the proposed Faster-RCNN model using the transfer learning approach gives an optimum mAP score of 83.3% with 300 and 91.3% with 100 proposals on ten flower classes. In addition, the proposed model could identify, locate, and classify flowers and provide essential details that include flower name, class classification, and multilabeling techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt ferrites have attracted extraordinary attention due to their high coercivity, chemical stability, and mechanical hardness. Lanthanum doped-cobalt ferrites having chemical formula CoLaxFe2-xO4 with composition x = (0.00, 0.015, 0.045, 0.060) were synthesized by chemical co-precipitation method. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and current-voltage (I-V) technique. The structure of the crystal was analyzed by X-ray diffraction. The crystallite size of nanoparticles was examined in the range of 21–25 nm, and a fluctuating trend was found with the inclusion of La3+ cations. The X-ray diffraction patterns verify the contraction of lattice constant and unit cell volume with the substitution of La3+ cations except for the concentration of x = 0.060. Lattice constant was in the range of 8.34 Å–8.41 Å while unit volume cell was in the range of 580 Å3–596 Å3. The resistivity of all samples was calculated by the application of two probes I-V technique. The maximum resistivity of the order of 81.129 × 105 Ω cm was found for the concentration of x = 0.060 at 723 K which makes it useful for high-frequency gimmicks applications. The resistivity and drift mobility were found inversely related to each other. The inverse relation low-frequency absorption band and high-frequency absorption bands were analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study demonstrated a de novo correlation among fiber quality genes in multiple RIL populations including sGK9708 × 0–153, LMY22 × LY343 and Lumianyan28 × Xinluzao24. The current study was conducted to identify the major common QTLs including fiber length and strength, and to identify the co-expression networks of fiber length and strength QTLs harbored genes to target the hub genes. The RNA-seq data of sGK9708 × 0–153 population highlighted 50 and 48 candidate genes of fiber length and fiber strength QTLs. A total of 29 and 21 hub genes were identified in fiber length and strength co-expression network modules. The absolute values of correlation coefficient close to 1 resulted highly positive correlation among hub genes. Results also suggested that the gene correlation significantly influence the gene expression at different fiber development stages. These results might provide useful reference for further experiments in multiple RIL populations and suggest potential candidate genes for functional studies in cotton. • Multiple RIL populations of cotton revealed the existence of common major QTLs for fiber quality traits. • Chromosome A07 in multiple RIL populations harbored important hub genes for fiber length and strength traits. • The co-expression network modules suggested a significant influence of hub genes in different fiber development stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protein misfolding is a central feature of most neurodegenerative diseases. Molecular chaperones can modulate the toxicity associated with protein misfolding, but it remains elusive which molecular chaperones and co‐chaperones interact with specific misfolded proteins. TDP‐43 misfolding and inclusion formation are a hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Using yeast and mammalian neuronal cells we find that Hsp90 and its co‐chaperone Sti1 have the capacity to alter TDP‐43 misfolding, inclusion formation, aggregation, and cellular toxicity. Our data also demonstrate that impaired Hsp90 function sensitizes cells to TDP‐43 toxicity and that Sti1 specifically interacts with and strongly modulates TDP‐43 toxicity in a dose‐dependent manner. Our study thus uncovers a previously unrecognized tie between Hsp90, Sti1, TDP‐43 misfolding, and cellular toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The late Cretaceous Fort Munro Formation in the western Sulaiman Range represents medium to thick-bedded, dark grey limestone displaying rich skeletal components, particularly larger benthic foraminifera (LBF), and bivalves. Three sections from the western Sulaiman Range, namely Spera Ragha, Murree Brewery, and Hanna Lake, were studied for detailed microfacies analysis and diagenetic investigation. A total of nine microfacies have been recognized, including 1 mudstone, 4 wackestone, 2 packstone, and 2 grainstone. Considering the proportionate prevalence of biota, their groupings, and the existence of a micritic matrix in different microfacies, it is deduced that the Fort Munro Formation was deposited inner to middle ramp setting. The inner ramp setting is more widespread than the corresponding middle ramp and is characterized by sub depositional environments including semi-restricted, storm-induced skeletal shoals, lagoons, low energy and protected inner ramp, storm induced skeletal shoals, and open marine. The Fort Munro Formation has undergone significant diagenetic alteration due to various diagenetic events. These events have altered the primary and secondary porosities. The observed diagenetic processes include micritization, cementation, dissolution, neomorphism, mechanical compaction, stylolitization, fractures and veins formation. Paragenetic sequence reveals that the studied carbonates are modified in marine, meteoric, and burial diagenetic environments. Detailed diagenetic analysis of the Fort Munro Formation reveals that most of the primary as well as secondary porosities are deteriorated by the precipitation of different type of cements in a variety of diagenetic environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a bioinformatics approach to identify binding pockets between proteins is a preferable method before modifying the genome to delineate host interactions with viruses. Based on extensive proteomics data in numerous databases, several interaction prediction methods are available to identify binding sites between viruses and hosts at the individual residue level, but little is known about the interaction prediction strategy for plant viruses. Begomoviruses, belonging to the family Geminiviridae, constitute a group of circular single-stranded (ss) DNA viruses that encode multifunctional proteins responsible for viral replication, causing severe diseases in multiple host plants. These viruses usually escape through plant defense mechanism overcoming physical and chemical barriers to trigger the infection with all possible combinations of interaction in the target host protein partners. Here, we have applied our computational approach for plant virus interaction at domain level. Previous study showed that myristoylation-like motif in Begomovirus cotton leaf curl Multan associated betasatellite protein βC1 (CLCuMB- βC1) played an important role in interaction with ubiquitin conjugating enzyme protein (UBC3) in tomato. This kind of binding at residue level has been validated using in vivo and in vitro molecular approach. Here, an in silico approach was utilized which is a combinatorial source of previous and recent protein prediction methods to determine all possible identified interface sites between βC1 and UBC3. This molecular interaction of CLCuMB- βC1 was further verified in the actual host i.e. cotton using a bimolecular fluorescence complementation system and yeast two-hybrid assay. This computational and molecular data will help to identify the interaction between virus and host before using any expensive and time-consuming molecular techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The idea of enhanced methanol production from cell wall by pectin methyl esterase enzymes (PME) combined with expression of cry genes from Bacillus thuringiensis as a strategy to improve insect pest control in cotton is presented. We constructed a cassette containing two cry genes (cry1Fa and Cry32Aa) and two pme genes, one from Arabidopsis thaliana (AtPME), and other from Aspergillus. niger (AnPME) in pCAMBIA1301 plant expression vector using CAMV-35S promoter. This construction was transformed in Eagle-2 cotton variety by using shoot apex-cut Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Expression of cry genes and pme genes was confirmed by qPCR. Methanol production was measured in control and in the cry and pme transformed plants showing methanol production only in transformed plants, in contrast to the non-transgenic cotton plants. Finally, insect bioassays performed with transgenic plants expressing cry and pme genes showed 100% mortality for Helicoverpa armigera (cotton bollworm) larvae, 70% mortality for Pectinophora gossypiella (pink bollworm) larvae and 95% mortality of Earias fabia, (spotted bollworm) larvae, that was higher than the transgenic plants expressing only cry genes that showed 84%, 49% and 79% mortality, respectively. These results demonstrate that Bt. cry-genes coupled with pme genes are an effective strategy to improve the control of different insect pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Household food security is a major issue in developing countries like Pakistan. Despite significant breakthroughs in grain production within the country, the problem of food availability and utilization persists. Diet is one of the most potent determinants of nutritional condition. The dietary intake method has been utilized to determine the food security status of households, which depends on various factors. There are no automatic and user-friendly methods available to decide food security status, which is generally determined by manually calculating calorie intakes. Due to its high performance and precision, machine learning holds major significance. In this paper, the status of food security has been examined by applying machine learning algorithms, namely, support vector machine, naïve Bayes, k-nearest neighbors, random forest, logistic regression, and neural network, on survey data of households for best predicting the status. A food analysis (FA) app has been developed to automatically predict the FAO status of a household's food security by implementing the random forest model that found higher precision among algorithms. Additionally, the proposed mobile app will also be helpful for collecting the households' data. Furthermore, the objective of the study was to enhance food security awareness among individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chaperone networks are dysregulated with aging, but whether compromised Hsp70/Hsp90 chaperone function disturbs neuronal resilience is unknown. Stress‐inducible phosphoprotein 1 (STI1; STIP1; HOP) is a co‐chaperone that simultaneously interacts with Hsp70 and Hsp90, but whose function in vivo remains poorly understood. We combined in‐depth analysis of chaperone genes in human datasets, analysis of a neuronal cell line lacking STI1 and of a mouse line with a hypomorphic Stip1 allele to investigate the requirement for STI1 in aging. Our experiments revealed that dysfunctional STI1 activity compromised Hsp70/Hsp90 chaperone network and neuronal resilience. The levels of a set of Hsp90 co‐chaperones and client proteins were selectively affected by reduced levels of STI1, suggesting that their stability depends on functional Hsp70/Hsp90 machinery. Analysis of human databases revealed a subset of co‐chaperones, including STI1, whose loss of function is incompatible with life in mammals, albeit they are not essential in yeast. Importantly, mice expressing a hypomorphic STI1 allele presented spontaneous age‐dependent hippocampal neurodegeneration and reduced hippocampal volume, with consequent spatial memory deficit. We suggest that impaired STI1 function compromises Hsp70/Hsp90 chaperone activity in mammals and can by itself cause age‐dependent hippocampal neurodegeneration in mice. Cover Image for this issue: doi: 10.1111/jnc.14749. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity has drastic effects on plant growth and productivity and is one of the major factors responsible for crop yield losses throughout the agricultural soils of the world. The mechanisms of salinity tolerance in plants are regulated by a set of inherent multigenes and prevalent environmental factors, which bring about a myriad of metabolic changes in each plant part. The stress‐induced metabolic changes in the rice plant have been intensively studied, but extensively in plant parts such as stem, leaf, and root. However, little information exists in the literature about such stress‐induced architectural and physiological changes in rice grain, a premier staple food of a large proportion of human population. Thus, the current review comprehensively describes the effects of salinity stress on rice grain composition including changes in carbohydrate, protein, fat, and mineral contents. Elucidation of salinity induced changes in rice grain composition would help to understand whether or not a nutritious and healthy staple food is available to human population from rice grown under saline environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Photocatalytic CO 2 reduction contributes both to environment and renewable energy. • Intrinsic photocatalyst performance is limited due to certain aspects. • Graphene based photocatalysts are reviewed precisely. • C 1 to C 2 transition is considered as a potential future perspective. Transformation of CO 2 , a notorious greenhouse gas, to solar fuels is a promising strategy to alleviate the interlinked issues of global warming, environmental pollution, and climatic changes. Additionally, CO 2 conversion to useful chemicals/fuels also possess a great potential to well match the energy demand in a sustainable manner. Hence, such exceptional benefits of harnessing CO 2 , by capitalizing sunlight, to valuable chemicals/fuels through photocatalysis, as one of the effective approach in the respective domain, have triggered great interest among researchers and scientific community. In this regard, utilization of customary and standard photocatalytic materials, specifically metal oxides like TiO 2 , are modified to provide enhanced performance, which is usually restricted due to limited intrinsic optical and physicochemical properties. To overcome such a critical issue of limited performance, several strategies like metals and non-metals doping, hetero-junctions, composites and nanostructures formation of photocatalytic materials have been investigated. Recently, with the invention of graphene and its derivatives, graphene based photocatalytic materials have been a topic of great interest, specifically for photocatalysts development and photocatalysis application. Graphene and its derivatives, due to their extraordinary physiochemical and electrical properties like high surface area, stability, anticorrosion capacity, photosensitivity, and excellent conductivity, can overcome constraints faced by traditional photocatalysts. Thus, Graphene based photocatalysts can be a feasible strategy to break new grounds in the field of photocatalytic CO 2 reduction (PCCR) to useful chemicals/ fuels, i.e. conversion of sunlight to fuels. Herein, a summarized overview is presented for the latest development in graphene-based photocatalysts, focusing various strategies and researches being investigated in relation to the, utility of graphene and its derivatives for solar fuels generation, particularly C 1 chemicals like CO, CH 4 , CH 3 OH, and insights to their role in improving efficacy of photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) are the haemotophagous arthropods causing livestock and public health threats. Among various control methods of ticks, chemical control remains the cornerstone especially in the resource-poor communities; however, their extensive or inappropriate use leads to the development of acaricidal resistance. In this regard, efficacy of the commonly used acaricides used in the field must be evaluated and alternate methods should be considered to overcome the prevailing resistance. Thus, the present study was aimed to investigate the acaricidal efficacy of over-the-counter i.e., ivermectin (IVM) in comparison with that of entomopathogenic fungus (EPF); Metarhizium (M.) anisopliae against adults of Hyalomma (H.) anatolicum ticks collected from the selected districts of southern Punjab, Pakistan. The tick specimens appropriately collected in pre-labelled screw-capped plastic bottles, with holes created for aeration, transferred to laboratory for further processing where the ticks were washed and dried over tissue paper. Various doses of the treatments viz.,1%, 1.5%, 2% and 2.5% of IVM and 1×105, 1×106, 1×107 and 1×108 of M. anisopliae were prepared. Sham treatment was made through 1% Triton-X for IVM and 0.1% (v/v) Tween ® 80 for M. anisopliae. A total of 900 partially fed female hard ticks in 10 batches and three repeats were subjected to in vitro Adult Immersion Test (AIT). The best dose of IVM against H. anatolicum was 2.5%, a higher dose, and M. anisopliae gave best results at 1×108. The LC50 (107 spores/ml) and LC90 (108 spores/ml) of M. anisopliae were proved more effective as compared to all IVM concentrations. The results conclude M. anisopliae can be a potential as an augmentative strategy to control hard ticks. However, toxicity trials of M. anisopliae are needed to be done for safety check before their recommendation in the practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Criteria used for evaluating drought tolerance of wheat cultivars demanding more time and efforts are usually not efficient and conclusive. Present study was conducted to evaluate ABA sensitivity as a criterion for evaluating drought tolerance of wheat cultivars at an early stage. Ten cultivars of wheat were subjected to drought at 3-leaf stage to select the most sensitive and two tolerant cultivars using mortality rate. Tatara was found the most susceptible whereas GA-2002 and Chakwal-50 were the cultivars with maximum drought tolerance. These cultivars were used to study sensitivity to applied absicic acid (based on germination index and relative growth inhibition rate) and physiological responses (leaf water content, chlorophyll stability index, coefficient of relative inhibition and proline accumulation) under drought stress. Highest ABA-sensitivity was recorded in GA-2002 and Chakwal-50 whereas Tatara manifested minimum sensitivity. ABA-sensitivity corresponded to physiological indices of drought tolerance. Results show that ABA-sensitivity is an efficient criterion that can be used to evaluate drought tolerance of wheat cultivars at early stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple, low-cost and compact antenna is presented for ultra-wideband applications. The proposed antenna design has improved characteristics as compared to the available different designs reported in the recent literature. The antenna is designed on FR4 substrate with microstrip feed line. Better results are obtained by optimising the geometrical parameters of patch and the lengths of ground and strip line. According to the criteria of -10 dB matching bandwidth, the designed antenna covers a high bandwidth ranging from 3.1 to 16 GHz. It was identified that the voltage to standing wave ratio is less than 2 which is also the desired characteristic for matching of an efficient antenna. The maximum dimension of this antenna is smaller than 0.27λ0 at the lowest frequency of operation, where λ0 is the free space wavelength. Further, low-cost, smaller size and simple design of the proposed antenna makes it very suitable for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water stress is one of the major environmental stresses that affect agricultural production worldwide, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. This research investigated the effect of water deficit, induced by PEG-6000 on wheat genotypes (GA-2002, Chakwal-97, Uqab-2000, Chakwal-50 and Wafaq-2001) grown in modified MS medium solution. Osmotic stress caused a more pronounced inhibition in leaf relative water content and leaf membrane stability more sensitive (index in Wafaq-2001 and Uqab-2000) genotypes compared with the tolerant (Chakwal-50, GA-2002 and Chakwal-97) genotypes. Upon dehydration, an incline in proline, total soluble sugar, total soluble protein, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase and malondialdehyde activity content were evident in all genotypes, especially at osmotic stress of −8 bars. The observed data showed that status of biochemical attributes and antioxidant enzymes could provide a meaningful tool for depicting drought tolerance of wheat genotypes. The present study shows that genotypic differences in drought tolerance could be likely attributed to the ability of wheat plants to induce antioxidant defense under drought conditions. In order to develop genotypes with stable, higher yields in dry farming conditions, it is necessary to characterise genetic resources based on drought adaptation, determine suitable genotypes, and then use them in breeding programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated atmospheric CO 2 levels are recognized as a key driver of global warming. Making use of sunlight to photoreduce CO 2 , in turn fabricating hydrocarbon fuels compatible with the current energy infrastructure, is a compelling strategy to minimize atmospheric CO 2 concentrations. However, practical application of such a photocatalytic system requires significant efforts for improved photoreduction performance and product selectivity. Herein, we investigate the performance of our newly developed reduced TiO 2 , prepared by a reduction process using Mg in 5% H 2 /Ar, for photoconversion of CO 2 and water vapor to hydrocarbons, primarily CH 4 . Using Pt nanoparticles as a co-catalyst, under simulated solar light irradiation the reduced anatase TiO 2 exhibits a relatively stable performance with a threefold increase in the rate of CH 4 production (1640.58 ppm g −1 h −1 , 1.13 μmol g −1 h −1 ) as compared to anatase TiO 2 nanoparticles (546.98 ppm g −1 h −1 , 0.38 μmol g −1 h −1 ). The improved photocatalytic performance is attributed to enhanced light absorption, suitable band edge alignment with respect to the CO 2 /CH 4 redox potential, and efficient separation of photogenerated charges. Our results suggest that the Pt-sensitized reduced TiO 2 can serve as an efficient photocatalyst for solar light CO 2 photoreduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted at PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Khushab Campus, Pakistan during the year 2012-13. Terminal drought stress and low soil fertility are major constraints to harvest potential yield of rain-fed chickpea. Effect of exogenous application of K2SO4 (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5%) in combination with CAN (1, 2 and 3%) was investigated against terminal drought stress. Foliar spray of various combinations of CAN and K2SO4 were applied at 40 and 60 days after sowing of chickpea facing subsequent terminal drought stress using RCBD with three replications. Maximum pods per plant, 1000- grain weight, grain yield and biological yield were attained from 1.5% K2SO4 in combination with 2% or 3% CAN. Maximum number of grains per pod was harvested from 3% CAN in combination with 1.0 or 1.5% K2SO4. Significant delay in flowering was recorded from 3% CAN with 1.0 or 1.5% K2SO4. Exogenous application of 1.5% K2SO4 in combination with 2 or 3% CAN proved helpful in mitigating the terminal drought stress in chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One-dimensional TiO 2 nanotubes arrays (TNT) are the subject of great current interest among the photocatalysis research community, however the relatively large bandgap that provides TiO 2 with its excellent corrosion stability severely limits its absorption of solar spectrum energy. To increase the optical absorption of TiO 2 while maintaining its otherwise commendable properties a number of approaches have been investigated including doping with non-metal or noble metal co-catalysts such as platinum, coupling with low band gap semiconductors, and the synthesis of carbon-based TiO 2 composites. During the past few years graphene-based TiO 2 nanostructures have been found to offer improved photoelectrochemical properties, with graphene enhancing light absorption as well as promoting rapid charge transfer. With the aim of replacing expensive noble metal co-catalysts, herein we report a noble metal-free novel nanostructured photocatalytic material fabricated using a facile synthesis approach, comprising a one-dimensional array of TNT covered with a reduced graphene oxide-TiO 2 nanoparticles (rGO-TiO 2 NP) composite. The novel nanostructure exhibits significantly improved photocurrent density and photochemical activity via conversion of CO 2 into methane under simulated solar light irradiation. The improved performance appears due to the combined effect of enhanced light absorption and effective charge separation promoted by the rGO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon and nitrogen co-doped sodium titanate nanotubes (C,N-TNT) active under simulated solar light are synthesized by a simple two-step process comprising an alkaline hydrothermal technique followed by calcination. Different samples of C,N-TNT with varied dopant concentrations are achieved by changing the amount of urea as a nitrogen and carbon dopants. The photocatalysts are characterized using numerous experimental techniques, and under simulated solar light investigated for the photocatalytic conversion of CO 2 and water vapor to CH 4 . The C,N-TNT sample with an intermediate doping concentration yields the maximum methane yield of 9.75 μmol/g h. The key factors contributing in the improvement of photocatalyst performance includes light absorption, surface area and Na + ions concentration in TNT acting as CO 2 adsorption site and photogenerated electrons recombination centers. The higher doping levels results in lower specific surface areas leading to decrease in photocatalyst performance. Our results suggest co-doping of nanostructured photocatalysts is an excellent pathway for improving textural and photocatalytic properties for the respective application domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The poor stability of the Cu is a major barrier in effective utilization of its intrinsic photocatalytic properties. • The stability of the Cu can be improved by bi-metallicity, Z-scheme heterostructures, and hole scavengers. • Cu can enable C–C coupling reaction to form the C 2 + products. • The suitable oxidation states of the Cu are essential for various steps of photocatalytic CO 2 reduction reaction. Cu-based photocatalysts are widely used for the photocatalytic reduction of CO 2 owing to their non-toxicity, earth abundance, extended light absorption, suppressed charge recombination, and good catalytic performance. In addition to low cost, abundant availability, and the ease of synthesis, they exhibit unique features, such as broad optical absorption, reaction intermediates stabilization, and C–C coupling ability, which lead to the formation of C 2 + products. The photocatalytic activity of Cu-based photocatalysts is essentially linked to the optical absorption and interfacial charge transfer at the junction of Cu and the semiconductor substrate. However, the poor resistance of Cu to oxidation seriously perturbs the effective utilization of its unique features in practical applications. To date, various approaches, such as the use of metal/non-metal co-catalysts, Z-scheme heterostructures, and hole scavengers, have been proposed to improve its photocatalytic performance and maintain its stability in prolonged reactions. In addition to these approaches, as single metal atom catalysts, atomically dispersed Cu photocatalysts have gained immense attention because they can regain the desired oxidation state, and hence exhibit good stability. The designation of suitable oxidation states of Cu for various CO 2 reduction reaction steps is challenging because of the rapid change in its oxidation states under ambient/irradiated environments. However, in situ spectroscopic analyses have nominated Cu2+ for CO 2 adsorption, Cu1+ for the photoreduction reaction, and Cu0 for effective charge separation. In this review, the recent advancements in the photocatalytic activity, selectivity, and stability of Cu-based photocatalysts are discussed systematically. Certain concepts and mechanisms related to the photocatalytic performance of Cu-based catalysts have also been discussed. Finally, the future research directions are discussed based on the available relevant literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the potential of Machine Vision (MV) approaches for the classification and identification of 12 varieties of guava. There are leaf images of the 12 local varieties of guava (Psidium guajava) that include Bangkok Red, China Surahi, Moti Surahi, Choti Surahi, Golden Gola, China Gola, Multani Sada Gola, Sadda Bahar Gola, Larkana Surahi, Black Guava, Hyderabadi Safeeda, Strawberry Pink Gola. A digital camera captured these images of guava varieties in a natural environment. Multi-features were extracted from these images. It was a composite of histograms, binary features, textures, rotational, spectral, and translational features (RST). Total 47 multi-features were collected for each non-overlapping guava leaf image, i.e., 256 × 256 and 512 × 512 more, the supervised correlation-based feature selection (CFS) method with the best search algorithm was used to optimize 18 features instead of 47 multi-features. Several ML classifiers, including Instant base Identifier (IBI), Random Forest (RF), and Meta Bagging (MB), using 10-fold cross-validation, were applied to the optimized multi-features. IBI results performed better than other classifiers with an average overall accuracy of 93.01% on AOIs, 512 × 512 . In addition, IBI detected 90.5%, 89.5%, 94%, 97%, 95.5%, 97%, 99%, 96.5%, 99%, 80.5%, 88%, and 81.5% accuracy values for the 12 varieties of guava leaves, namely Bangkok Red, China Surahi, Moti Surahi, Choti Surahi, Golden Gola, China Gola, Multani Sada Gola, Sadda Bahar Gola, Larkana Surahi, Black Guava, Hyderabadi Safeeda, Strawberry Pink Gola. The proposed study could play a significant role for the early and accurate identification of Guava varieties, and it would also be helpful for export quality measures for the national economy of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Among the infectious organisms of parasitic origin, gastrointestinal nematodes are very important as they have been reported worldwide. The main aim of the present research study to highlight the annual epidemiological contributing factors associated with the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes and their control in sheep. Methods: A total 1200 faecal samples (100 per month) were collected from farmers holding Balochi-sheep (either sexes, 1-5 years old) during January-December 2012 and analyzed to determine the prevalence of nematodes based on microscopy and ELISA based diagnostic assay. Therapeutic efficacies of different synthetic and herbal medicines against these nematodes were assessed by field trials. Results: Results showed that 23.92% Balochi-sheep were infected with nematodes. Five nematodes infections were recorded with highest prevalence of Haemonchus (7.75%) followed by Nematodirus (7.58%), Strongyloides (4.42%), Trichostrongylus (2.33%) and Trichuris (1.83%). The younger and older ewes (one and five years) presented higher nematodes prevalence with peak during March/April and August/September. Haemonchus and Trichuris positive samples based on coprological examination were also showed 92-100% positive sensitivity for these nematodes by the ELISA. Sheep treated with Ivermectin showed higher reduction (97.76%) in nematode egg counts followed by Atreefal deedan (96.42%) and Oxfendazole (95.44%), respectively. Conclusion: The gastro-intestinal nematodes are prevalent in all age and either sex of Balochi-sheep with peak during summer. The ELISA based diagnosis is more accurte. The synthetic and herbal products are very effective against sheep nematodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out in the Department of Agronomy, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, during the year 2008-10. The objective was to explore potential of somaclonal variation for improving drought tolerance in wheat. The proliferated calli from immature embryos of wheat (cv. GA-2002) were cultured on MS based medium supplemented with PEG-6000 (polyethylene glycol) induced osmotic stress of -9.0 bars for four weeks. PEG-6000 tolerant calli were selected and regenerated (R0). The somaclones (R0 regenerants) were grown to produce R1-seeds. The progeny of selected plants (R1-generation) and their donor parent were tested in pots for drought tolerance under simulated water stress. The results revealed that selected somaclones were less affected by water stress than their donor parent. Leaf rolling was observed in both R1 and their parent with increasing severity of stress but symptoms of leaf rolling were rather earlier and clearly noticeable in parent than R1 selected somaclones. The results further showed that R1 somaclones maintained higher leaf water potential than donor parent in response to all treatments of water stress. Maximum leaf water potential of -1.23, -1.63 and -2.21 MPa was noted in 4, 6 and 8 days of water stress, respectively compared with parent cv. GA-2002 (-1.37, -1.80 and -2.50 MPa). Compared to parental control, significant higher drought tolerance of selected R1 somaclones was evident based on symptoms of leaf rolling and leaf water relation. Somaclonal variations are potential source of genetic variability and can effectively be employed to develop drought tolerant plants in vitro. The protocol can effectively be used for in vitro screening and improvement of wheat for drought tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sulaiman Fold-Thrust Belt, Pakistan contains thousands of meters thick Mesozoic succession, which was deposited at the northwestern passive margin of the Indian Plate within the Palaeo-Tethys. The Jurassic Loralai Formation is an important part of the sedimentary succession of the Sulaiman Fold- Thrust Belt, which is mainly composed of limestone with minor proportions of shale, marl and sandstone. Sandstone succession within the Loralai Formation has neither been reported nor described before, which is hereby reported from the Feroz-e-Kan and Ziarat Morh sections, southwest of the Muslimbagh Town. In the Feroz-e-Kan Section approximately 30 meters thick channelized sandstone succession is exposed. Petrology of these sandstones was studied and modal analysis carried out in order to classify and understand their detrital modes and provenance. Sandstone has been classified as sub-lithic arenite. Their Qt-F-L plot indicate a Recycled Orogen, Qm-F-Lt plot indicate mostly Quartzose Recycled (partly Craton Interior) Orogen and Qp-Lvm-Lsm plot suggest Collisional (Suture Belt) Orogen. We propose that detritus of sandstone of the Jurassic Loralai Formation has been derived from the Indian Craton situated east-southeast of the study area. Its close resemblance with the sandstone of the Late Cretaceous Pab and Mughal Kot formations indicate that the Indian Craton had been their common source terrain throughout the Jurassic-Cretaceous times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Response of three lentil cultivars (Masoor-93, NIAB Masoor-2002 and NIAB Masoor-2006) to various NPK fertilizer combinations (25-0-0, 25-25-25, 25-50-50 and 25-75-75 kg/ ha) was studied during the year 2007-08 and 2008-09. The experiment was replicated three times at Agronomic Research Area, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Yield of NIAB Masoor-2002 and NIAB Masoor-2006 was equivalent (1378 and 1365 kg/ha) but significantly higher than Masoor-93. This was due to more pods and higher seed weight. NIAB Masoor-2002 and NIAB Masoor-2006 gave better response to 25:50:50 kg NPK. Increased dose of NPK (25-75-75 kg NPK/ha) did not further increase the yield. Therefore, NPK @ 25-50-50 kg seems optimum for higher yield of NIAB Masoor-2002 and NIAB Masoor-2006 under rainfed conditions. Maximum increase in harvest index was observed in NIAB Masoor-2002 with 25- 50-50 kg NPK (45.64%). Addition of higher dose of P and K with N increased harvest index. Protein content was more in NIAB Masoor-2002. Moreover, increase in P and K levels increased the seed protein content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CO2 conversion to solar fuels/chemicals is an alluring approach for narrowing critical issues of global warming, environmental pollution, and climate change, caused by excess atmospheric CO2 concentration. Amongst various CO2 conversion strategies, photocatalytic CO2 conversion (PCC) is considered as a promising approach, which utilizes inexpensive sunlight and water with a photocatalyst material. Hence, development of an efficient and a stable photocatalyst is an essential activity for the respective scientific community to upscale the PCC research domain. Until today, metal oxides, such as TiO2, ZnO, etc., are categorized as standard photocatalysts because of their relative stability, abundant availability and low cost. However, their performance is tethered by limited light absorption and somewhat physical properties. Recently, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have offered an exciting and efficient way for PCC due to their superb CO2 adsorption and moderate photocatalytic properties. The LDH based photocatalysts show marvelous physiochemical and electrical properties like high surface area, stability, and excellent conductivity. In the present review article, a summarized survey is portrayed regarding latest development for LDH based photocatalysts with a focus on synthesis strategies employing various photocatalyst materials, influencing parameters and possible mechanism involved in PCC to useful fuels and chemicals like CO, CH4, CH3OH, and H2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: AP2/ERF transcription factors are important in a variety of biological activities, including plant growth, development, and responses to biotic and abiotic stressors. However, little study has been done on cotton's AP2/ERF genes, although cotton is an essential fibre crop. We were able to examine the tissue and expression patterns of AP2/ERF genes in cotton on a genome-wide basis because of the recently published whole genome sequence of cotton. Genome-wide analysis of ERF gene family within two diploid species (G. arboreum & G. raimondii) and two tetraploid species (G. barbadense, G. hirsutum) was performed. Results: A total of 118, 120, 213, 220 genes containing the sequence of single AP2 domain were identified in G. arboreum, G. raimondii, G. barbadense and G. hirsutum respectively. The identified genes were unevenly distributed across 13/26 chromosomes of A and D genomes of cotton. Synteny and collinearity analysis revealed that segmental duplications may have played crucial roles in the expansion of the cotton ERF gene family, as well as tandem duplications played a minor role. Cis-acting elements of the promoter sites of Ghi-ERFs genes predict the involvement in multiple hormone responses and abiotic stresses. Transcriptome and qRT-PCR analysis revealed that Ghi-ERF-2D.6, Ghi-ERF-12D.13, Ghi-ERF-6D.1, Ghi-ERF-7A.6 and Ghi-ERF-11D.5 are candidate genes against salinity tolerance in upland cotton. Conclusion: Overwhelmingly, the present study paves the way to better understand the evolution of cotton ERF genes and lays a foundation for future investigation of ERF genes in improving salinity stress tolerance in cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stroke is one of the common causes of admission in medical and neurological wards in the hospitals. The aim of this study to assess the prevalence of modifiable risks factors in stroke patients admitted to the teaching hospitals in Bannu District. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted on 56 patients admitted with stroke to medical units of District Headquarter and Khalifa Gul Nawaz Teaching Hospitals, Bannu, from January 2011 to December 2011. History and thorough clinical examination were performed on all patients to collect all relevant information. Necessary laboratory investigations were done. CT was performed to establish the diagnosis of stroke. All the findings were recorded on printed proformas. Patients with focal neurological deficit for more than 24 hours, presenting within 7 days of onset, irrespective of age and sex were included in the study. Those with tubercular meningitis, brain tumor, encephalitis, trauma or multiple sclerosis were excluded. Results: Out of 56 patients, 34(60.71%) were males and 22(39.30%) females, with male to female ratio of 1.5:1. Mean age was 57.5 years. Cerebral infarction was found in 37(66%), while hemorrhagic stroke in 19(34%) patients. The risk factors were hypertension in 36(64%), diabetes mellitus 14(25%), hyperlipidemia 10(18%),and cardiovascular diseases 10(18%). Conclusion: The major modifiable risk factors for stroke in our set-up are hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and hyperlipidemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study on foliar epidermis was conducted on nine species belonging to the Moraceae family to investigate diverse micromorphological characteristics that hold taxonomic importance in leaf epidermis. Based on LM (light microscopy) and SEM (scanning electron microscopy), it was found that the shape of epidermal cells in the studied members is rectangular, irregular, polygonal, and pentagonal on both leaf epidermal surfaces. The common shape of the epidermal cells is polygonal in most species. The size of the epidermal cell in length and width varies from species to species. The wall of the epidermal cells is thick in most species, except in Broussonetia papyrifera (L.) L’Hér. ex Vent. and Morus alba L., and Morus laevigata Wall. ex Brandis, where the epidermal cells are thin on both leaf surfaces. It was found that the majority of the plants are hypostomatic, i.e., the adaxial surface of the leaves has no stomata. Most species have anomocytic stomata on the abaxial surface of the leaf. The cyclocytic stomata were found only in Ficus elastica Roxb. ex Hornem. and Ficus benjamina L. The stomata type, which is rare in the studied species, is cyclocytic, laterocytic, and paracytic. We found variations in the shape and size of leaf epidermal cells and stomata on both leaf surfaces in all selected species. The most important element of the leaf is the stomatal index, which serves as a geographic indicator and shows the transpiration rate of the leaf. The stomatal index ranges from (76.7%) in B. papyrifera to (2.13%) in F. benjamina on the adaxial surface, while on the abaxial surface it is highest (61.8%) in Ficus religiosa L. and lowest (3.06%) in Ficus virens Aiton. The identification of the plants at both genus and specific-levels was found to be taxonomically appropriate based on the epidermal architecture of the leaves. Thus, the current study aims to clarify the qualitative and quantitative properties of the leaf epidermis in order to give information for Moraceae family species identification and categorization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hybrid biochar-TiO 2 sample displayed photodegradation efficiency of more than 99 %. • Adsorption of biochar-TiO 2 composites follows Freundlich and second-order models. • Photodegradation is attributed to better light absorption. • Reduced charge recombination enhances the photodegradation efficiency. • Photodegradation was sensitive to the loading concentration of TiO 2 onto biochars. TiO 2 based photocatalysts are extensively used for textile wastewater treatment as they are ecofriendly, inexpensive, easily available, nontoxic and have higher photostabililty. However, their wider band gap, charge carrier's recombination, and utilization of light absorbance limits their performance. In the present work, a hybrid biochar-TiO 2 composite (BCT) has been synthesized by a facile synthesis strategy to overcome these problems. These photocatalysts are characterized using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), and photoluminescence (PL) to evaluate their crystallinity, morphology, functional groups, bandgap energy and charge separation properties, respectively. The photodegradation of simulated textile wastewater is analyzed using hybrid composites. The hybrid biochar-TiO 2 composite showed higher charge separation, slow recombination of electron-hole pairs, and enhanced light absorption as compared to control (pure TiO 2 and BC alone). 99.20 % photodegradation efficiency of dye-simulated wastewater is achieved employing optimum hybrid composite, while the pure biochar and TiO 2 samples exhibits 85.20 % and 42.60 % efficiencies, respectively. The maximum adsorption capacity is obtained for hybrid biochar-TiO 2 sample, 74.30 mgg-1 in comparison to biochar (30.40 mgg-1) and pure TiO 2 (1.50 mgg-1). The results show that hybrid biochar-TiO 2 composites can perform in the target application of organic industrial pollutant removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The gastrointestinal nematodes are common pathogens in grazing sheep/goats throughout the world which impairs productivity and leads to high economic losses. In most part of the world, drug resistance against anthelmintic is now very common. In this context, various alternative control programs including herbal use against these worms is also an important option. To explore the problem, three available synthetic anthelmintic (Oxfendazole alone, oxfendazole-Levamisole combination and Ivermectin) were administered to natural major nematodes (Haemonchus, Trichuris, Strongyloides and Trichostrongylus) infected sheep and goats. Overall results revealed susceptibility of these anthelmintics (97-99% Confidence Interval of Faecal Egg Count Reduction-FECR) against four nematodes and no evidence of resistance recorded. However, three herbal anthelmintics (Atreefal Deedan, Deedani and Kirmar) available in Pakistan were tested against nematodes as an option of alternate remedy. Among these Atreefal Deedan showed highest (90-96%) FECR, followed by Deedani (80-83%) and Kirmar (32-60%). It is concluded that, on small scale assessment no drug resistance observed against few worms in sheep and goats in Pakistan. A broader study is recommended for assessment of drug resistance and also evaluation of available or practiced anthelmintic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis is a widespread zoonotic disease of veterinary and public health importance with considerably higher prevalence in developing/underdeveloped countries. This study reports the prevalence and risk determinants of brucellosis in small ruminants of peri-urban and rural areas of district Multan, Southern Punjab, Pakistan. For this purpose, sera samples (n = 392) of small ruminants were collected and subjected to preliminary screening using commercially available RBPT reagents followed by serodetection of brucellosis using multispecies i-ELISA kit (ID.vet, France). All the ELISA positive samples were confirmed by PCR using genus-specific primers, and frequencies of Brucella species in positive samples were enumerated using species-specific primers. Results indicated seropositivity rates of 9.69, 9.95, and 10.20% in study population using RBPT reagents of IDEXX-USA, ID.Vet-France, and VRI-Pakistan, respectively, with a statistically nonsignificant difference p > 0.05 . Results of ELISA showed an overall seroprevalence rate of 7.14% in target population with a slightly higher rate in sheep (7.65%) as compared to goat (6.63%) population (p = 0.695 ; OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.53, 2.57). Results revealed that out of total positive samples, B. abortus was detected in 60.71% of seropositive samples and B. melitensis was detected in 14.28% of positive samples. It was revealed that risk factors including body condition scores, hygienic conditions of the housing facility, farming system, reproductive disorders, educational status of farmers, and awareness of farmers about brucellosis had significant association with brucellosis in small ruminants of study area p < 0.05 . Conversely, farm/herd size, locality, gender, age, weight, and parity showed a nonsignificant association p > 0.05 with brucellosis. In conclusion, brucellosis is prevalent in small ruminants of Multan, Pakistan. It is recommended to devise and implement effective control strategies with a major focus on raising awareness about brucellosis in farmers for the containment of infection in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by a bacterial pathogen belonging to the genus Brucella. It is one of the most frequent bacterial zoonoses globally but unfortunately, it is still considered as a neglected disease in the developing world. Keeping in view, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence and risk determinants of brucellosis in large ruminants of peri-urban and rural areas of district Multan-Pakistan. For this purpose, blood samples (n = 490) were collected from the cattle (n = 245) and buffalo (n = 245) population of the study area and subjected to preliminary screening of brucellosis using local and imported RBPT reagents. All the samples were further analyzed using commercially available multi-specie indirect ELISA kit followed by their confirmation by PCR using genus and species-specific primers. Data obtained from lab analysis and questionnaires were subjected to statistical analysis for Pearson Chi-square, Odds Ratio and Confidence intervals (95%). Results: The results showed that the maximum seropositivity was recorded with local RBPT reagent (VRI, Pakistan; 12.45%; 95%CI = 9.72–15.65%) followed by RBPT-IDEXX (12.24%; 95%CI = 9.52–15.45%) and RBPT-ID.vet (11.84%; 95%CI = 9.18–14.95%) however statistical difference was non-significant (P = 0.956). The ELISA results showed an overall seroprevalence rate of 11.22% (95%CI = 8.59–14.33%) with comparatively higher rate in cattle (12.65%; 95%CI = 8.82–17.44%) as compared to buffaloes (9.80%; 95%CI = 6.49–14.15%). The PCR analysis confirmed the presence of genus Brucella in all seropositive samples whereas frequency of B. abortus and B. melitensis in seropositive samples was 80% and 20%, respectively. The co-existence of both species was also observed in 5.45% samples. The statistical analysis showed a significant association of bovine brucellosis with herd size, breed, reproductive disorders, mode of insemination, educational status and farmers' awareness about brucellosis (P < 0.05). Conversely, locality, age, weight, gender, pregnancy status, parity and puberty status had no associations with brucellosis (P > 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, brucellosis is prevalent in large ruminants of district Multan, Pakistan. It is suggested to devise and implement stringent policies for the effective control and prevention of brucellosis in the region. Further, the current situation also warrants the need to strengthen interdisciplinary coordination among veterinarians and physicians in one health perspective to ensure and strengthen the human and animal health care systems in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze the phytochemical and antimicrobial-related assays including antibacterial, antifungal, antipellicle, and antibiofilm potential of the root of an alpine medicinal plant (Arnebia euchroma (Royle) I.M.Johnst). Ethanolic, methyl acetate, chloroform, and aqueous extracts of root parts of the A. euchroma plant were prepared. The active metabolites of the root part of the plant were evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively by GC-MS and HPLC techniques, using ethanolic extract. The antimicrobial potential of A. euchroma was investigated using crude extract, fractions, and AgNPs of the A. euchroma root against two Gram-positive bacteria (Enterococcus, Staphylococcus aureus) four Gram-negative bacteria (Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris) and five fungal strains (Rhizoctonia, Cuneate fasciculus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium oxysporum, and Candida auris). All the bacterial strains showed sensitivity toward all the fractions (ethanolic crude, chloroform, aqueous, and methyl acetate) and AgNPs. While S. typhi was found the most susceptible, P. vulgaris was most resistant to all extracts and AgNPs. The case of anti-biofilm potential, the S. typhi and Enterococcus were shown to be most susceptible, these bacteria formed biofilm which was disrupted completely by the extracts. Among the fungal strains F. oxysporum and A. niger were the most susceptible and C. fasciculus was the most resistant fungi. All extracts, including ethanolic extract, chloroform, aqueous, and methyl acetate, at concentrations of 12.5 µg/mL and 16 µg/mL and AgNPs showed anti-pellicle activity against S. typhi, Rhizoctonia, and A. niger. Dose-dependent trend in all bioassays was noted. The ethanolic crude and chloroform extracts were the most active followed by methyl acetate and then aqueous extracts. The phytochemical analysis revealed that carbohydrates, alkaloids, saponins, phenols, tannins, proteins, and flavonoids were found in the plant while terpenoids were absent. The present study highlights that root of the A. euchroma is rich in various types of bioactive phytochemicals, which may be responsible for anti-microbial activities toward the tested pathogenic of bacterial and fungal strains. Our results suggest and confirm A. euchroma extracts could be used economically as a valuable bioproduct with new functional properties in the further drug development and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production and utilization of nanoparticles (NPs) are increasing due to their positive and stimulating effects on biological systems. Silver (Ag) NPs improve seed germination, photosynthetic efficiency, plant growth, and antimicrobial activities. In this study, the effects of chemo-blended Ag NPs on wheat were investigated using the gel-free/label-free proteomic technique. Morphological analysis revealed that chemo-blended Ag NPs resulted in the increase of shoot length, shoot fresh weight, root length, and root fresh weight. Proteomic analysis indicated that proteins related to photosynthesis and protein synthesis were increased, while glycolysis, signaling, and cell wall related proteins were decreased. Proteins related to redox and mitochondrial electron transport chain were also decreased. Glycolysis associated proteins such as glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase increased as well as decreased, while phosphoenol pyruvate carboxylase was decreased. Antioxidant enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase were promoted in response to the chemo-blended Ag NPs. These results suggested that chemo-blended Ag NPs promoted plant growth and development through regulation of energy metabolism by suppression of glycolysis. Number of grains/spike, 100-grains weight, and yield of wheat were stimulated with chemo-blended Ag NPs. Morphological study of next generational wheat plants depicted normal growth, and no toxic effects were observed. Therefore, morphological, proteomic, yield, and next generation results revealed that chemo-blended Ag NPs may promote plant growth and development through alteration in plant metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four commercial synthetic compounds, pyrethroid, organophosphates, macrocyclic lactones and phenylpyrazole have been used for tick control worldwide. However, periodic monitoring of the effectiveness of acaricides has not been fully explored, although such information could contribute to a more effective application, economic analysis and harmful impact on other organisms and environmental contamination. This study investigates the effect of cypermethrine (CYM), deltamethrin, trichlorphon + dimethylester, ivermectin (IVM) and fipronil on natural infestations of ticks in goats. The in vivo quantitative assessment of four tick genera i.e. Hyalomma, Rhipicephalus, Ixodes and Haemaphysalis revealed that both CYM and IVM treated groups resulted in significantly lower (P<0.05) tick counts relative to other compounds and controls on all post-treated days. The maximum reduction in the mean number of ticks in the CYM and IVM treated group was recorded from days 3 to 4, followed by complete shedding of ticks on day 5. However, deltamethrin, trichlorphon + dimethylester and fipronil showed 100% efficacy on the sixth day. In-vitro efficacy trials showed a 100% tick's mortality based upon the use of fipronil (0.25 g/100 mL) within the 18th h in the post-treated group, while deltamethrin, trichlorphon + dimethylester and CYM were ranked 2nd, 3rd and 5th based on their 100% efficacy within 24-33 h, 33-42 h and 39-48 h, respectively. The investigation has shown that tested acaricides varied in their efficacy to reduce the tick infestation and further experiments on different formulations of the other members of the major acaricidal classes need to be standardized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought adversely affects the yield, quality and nutritional value of the crop plants. Additionally, it causes unrest in society and economic loss to the farmers and governments. The present study involved the applications of nanoparticles to induce drought tolerance and improve yield in the wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants. Green chemical methods were used for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and copper nanoparticles (CuNPs). CuNPs were used in 0, 3, 5 and 7 mg/L and 0, 10, 20 and 30 mg/L of AgNPs were tested at −4, −6 and −8 bars osmotic potential in laboratory experiments and 40%, 60% and 80% field capacity (FC) in the glasshouse experiments were maintained. The solution culture experiments revealed significantly higher chlorophyll stability index (CSI), leaf succulence (LS) and leaf K (LK) content in plants treated with 03 mg/L of CuNPs and 10 mg/L of AgNPs, indicated the positive role of CuNPs and AgNPs in drought tolerance of wheat. A similar trend was observed for stomatal conductance (SC) and morphological parameters with the applications of Cu and Ag nanoparticles at different levels of field capacity. The results of this study provide the experimental evidence to use CuNPs and AgNPs to induce drought resistance and improve yield in the wheat plants by a satisfactory increase in nutrients uptake and water retention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro recalcitrance of wheat to regeneration is the major bottleneck for its improvement through callus-based genetic transformation. Nanotechnology is one of the most dynamic areas of research, which can transform agriculture and biotechnology to ensure food security on sustainable basis. Present study was designed to investigate effects of CuSO4, AgNO3 and their nanoparticles on tissue culture responses of mature embryo culture of wheat genotypes (AS-2002 and Wafaq-2001). Initially, MS-based callus induction and regeneration medium were optimized for both genotypes using various concentrations of auxin (2,4-D, IAA) and cytokinins (BAP, kinetin). The genotypes differed for embryogenic callus induction and regeneration potential. Genotype AS-2002 yielded maximum embryogenic calli in response to 3.0 mg/l 2,4-D, whereas Wafaq-2001 offered the highest embryogenic calli against 3.5 mg/l 2,4-D supplemented in the induction medium. Genotype AS-2002 showed maximum regeneration (59.33%) in response to regeneration protocol comprising 0.5 mg/l IAA, 0.3 mg/l BAP and 1.0 mg/l Kin, while Wafaq-2001 performed best in response to 0.5 mg/l IAA, 0.3 mg/l BAP and 1.5 mg/l Kin with 55.33% regeneration efficiency. The same optimized basal induction and regeneration medium for both genotypes were further used to study effects of CuSO4, AgNO3 and their nano-particles employing independent experiments. The optimized induction medium fortified with various concentrations of CuSO4 or CuNPs confirmed significant effects on frequency of embryogenic callus. Addition of either 0.020 mg/l or 0.025 mg/l CuSO4, or 0.015 mg/l CNPs showed comparable results for embryogenic callus induction and were statistically at par with embryogenic callus induction of 74.00%, 75.67% and 76.83%, respectively. Significantly higher regeneration was achieved from MS-based regeneration medium supplemented with 0.015 mg/l or 0.020 mg/l CuNPs than standard 0.025 mg/l CuSO4. In another study, the basal induction and regeneration medium were fortified with AgNO3 or AgNPs ranging from 1 to 7 mg/l along with basal regeneration media devoid of AgNO3 or AgNPs (control). The maximum embryogenic calli were witnessed from medium fortified with 3.0 mg/l or 4.0 mg/l AgNPs compared with control and rest of the treatments. The standardized regeneration medium fortified with 5.0 mg/l AgNO3 or 3.0 mg/l AgNPs showed pronounced effect on regeneration of wheat genotypes and offered maximum regeneration compared with control. The individual and combined effect of Cu and Ag nanoparticles along with control (basal regeneration media of each genotype) was also tested. Surprisingly, co-application of metallic NPs showed a significant increase in embryogenic callus formation of genotypes. Induction medium supplemented with 0.015 mg/l CuNPs + 4.0 mg/l AgNPs or 0.020 mg/l CuNPs + 2.0 mg/l AgNPs showed splendid results compared to control and other combination of Cu and Ag nanoparticles. The maximum regeneration was achieved by co-application of 0.015 mg/l CuNP and 4.0 mg/l AgNPs with 21% increment of regeneration over control. It is revealed that CuNPs and AgNPs are potential candidate to augment somatic embryogenesis and regeneration of mature embryo explants of wheat. Abbreviations: 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid), BAP (6-benzylaminopurine), IAA (Indole-3-acetic acid), AgNPs (silver nanoparticles), CuNPs (copper nanoparticles) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze the potential of the computer vision (CV) approach to classify eight canola varieties. The input images of eight canola varieties were CON-I, CON-II, CON-III, Pakola, Canola Raya, Rainbow, PARC Canola Hybrid, and Tarnab-III. A digital camera acquired these images on an open sunny day without any complex laboratory setup. First-order histogram features, second-order statistical texture features, binary features, spectral features of three bands were, blue (B), green (G), and red (R), were employed in the artificial neural network (ANN). A 10-fold stratified cross-validation method was used for classification. The best results with accuracy ranging from 95% to 98% observed when the data of regions of interest (512 × 512) deployed to the classifier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxocariasis is an important zoonotic disease caused by Toxocara (T.) canis with considerably higher prevalence in developing countries. The data on its epidemiology, especially in socioeconomically deprived nomadic communities, are scarce in Pakistan. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of anti‐T. canis antibodies and its associated risk factors in nomadic communities located in and around Multan, Pakistan. A total of 184 sera samples were collected from nomadic communities by simple random sampling technique. The descriptive epidemiological data of participants were collected on well‐designed questionnaires. Prior consent was also obtained from the participants to use the data generated from their samples without showing their identity. All the samples were analysed for the detection of anti‐T. canis antibodies using commercially available Enzyme‐Linked‐Immunosorbent‐Assay (ELISA) kits having 91% sensitivity and 96% specificity (Bordier Affinity Products, Switzerland). The overall seroprevalence of toxocariasis among nomadic communities was 27.7% (51/184). Various factors, including age, known disease history, nutritional status, contact with dogs, practice of hand washing after contact with dogs, use of unwashed vegetables, body mass index, and drug abuse, showed significant correlation (p < 0.05) with toxocariasis in nomadic communities. Conversely, other factors, including gender, marital status, educational status, awareness about zoonotic diseases, source of drinking water, occupation, location, hand washing before taking food, exposure to soil, and hygienic eating behaviour, showed non‐significant correlation (p > 0.05) with seroprevalence of toxocariasis. Results also showed that >50% of seropositive cases were asymptomatic, whereas cough and abdominal pain were recorded in 19.6% and 11.76% of seropositive cases, respectively. Keeping in view, it is suggested to conduct surveys at mass level to rule out the exact disease status at national level and to include nomadic communities in local, national, and regional disease control programs through provision of better healthcare facilities and awareness about the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]